Tuesday, December 8, 2009

It's December already?!

I cannot believe we're already a week into December. I don't know if it's just me but I swear November and December slip away much faster than the other months. It's like Halloween happens, then you wake up a few days later and you're eating Turkey on Thanksgiving, and then all of a sudden you're rushing around doing Christmasy things. What a crazy, chaotic, wonderful time of year.

These last two weeks have been ridiculously chaotic. Dead week and finals week have not been treating me very well but come this Friday it will all be over. And I am happy to say that I will not be attending school in the States until next fall.

I leave to study abroad at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia on February 10th. Words cannot express the excitement that I feel. I know it's only two short months away but I am getting so eager! I want it to be so much sooner than it is! But all good things are worth waiting for. I come home sometime around June 27th. So it will be quite the long adventure! I am excited to do a sort of travel blog while I'm gone.

Aside from listening to Christmas music 97% of the time, I have become mildly obsessed with Phil Wickham. I never really listened to him much until last February when my roommate and I went to go see JJ Heller in concert. Phil was the second act and I have never been so in awe of a musician before. First of all, his voice is unreal. I've never heard anyone with the kind of range that he has. His music is unbelievable. A new album came out a few weeks ago and I am loving it just as much as his other stuff. There are some of his songs that I can just put on repeat and not get sick of. The song that plays on my blog is called "You're Beautiful" and it honestly brings tears to my eyes everytime I hear it. It is such a beautiful song with such an beautiful meaning. Everything about God is so beautiful and this song expresses that. Ahh... I am just in love... with him and his music. Oh, and I am going to his concert in Portland on New Years Eve! I can't wait!

And if you forgot how ridiculously awesome and beautiful God is...



Thursday, November 12, 2009

Random Thoughts

Found this in someone else's blog... thought I'd pass it on. Hilarious and True.

1. I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option.

2. More often than not, when someone is telling me a story all I can think about is that I can’t wait for them to finish so that I can tell my own story that’s not only better, but also more directly involves me.
3. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.
4. I don’t understand the purpose of the line, “I don’t need to drink to have fun.” Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and sticks when they’ve invented the lighter?
5. Have you ever been walking down the street and realized that you’re going in the complete opposite direction of where you are supposed to be going? But instead of just turning a 180 and walking back in the direction from which you came, you have to first do something like check your watch or phone or make a grand arm gesture and mutter to yourself to ensure that no one in the surrounding area thinks you’re crazy by randomly switching directions on the sidewalk.
6. That’s enough, Nickelback.
7. I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger.
8. Is it just me, or are 80% of the people in the “people you may know” feature on Facebook people that I do know, but I deliberately choose not to be friends with?
9. Do you remember when you were a kid, playing Nintendo and it wouldn’t work? You take the cartridge out, blow in it and that would magically fix the problem. Every kid in America did that, but how did we all know how to fix the problem? There was no internet or message boards or FAQ’s. We just figured it out. Today’s kids are soft.
10. There is a great need for sarcasm font.
11. Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the f was going on when I first saw it.
12. I think everyone has a movie that they love so much, it actually becomes stressful to watch it with other people. I’ll end up wasting 90 minutes shiftily glancing around to confirm that everyone’s laughing at the right parts, then making sure I laugh just a little bit harder (and a millisecond earlier) to prove that I’m still the only one who really, really gets it.
13. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
14. I would rather try to carry 10 plastic grocery bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.
15. I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
16. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text.
17. A recent study has shown that playing beer pong contributes to the spread of mono and the flu. Yeah, if you suck at it.
18. Was learning cursive really necessary?
19. Lol has gone from meaning, “laugh out loud” to “I have nothing else to say”.
20. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.
21. Answering the same letter three times or more in a row on a Scantron test is absolutely petrifying.
22. My brother’s Municipal League baseball team is named the Stepdads. Seeing as none of the guys on the team are actual stepdads, I inquired about the name. He explained, “Cuz we beat you, and you hate us.” Classy, bro.
23. Whenever someone says “I’m not book smart, but I’m street smart”, all I hear is “I’m not real smart, but I’m imaginary smart”.
24. How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear what they said?
25. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars teams up to prevent a dick from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers!
26. Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using ‘as in’ examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss’s last name to an attorney and said “Yes that’s G as in…(10 second lapse)..ummm…Goonies”
27. What would happen if I hired two private investigators to follow each other?
28. While driving yesterday I saw a banana peel in the road and instinctively swerved to avoid it…thanks Mario Kart.
29. MapQuest really needs to start their directions on #5. Pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
30. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
31. I find it hard to believe there are actually people who get in the shower first and THEN turn on the water.
32. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.
33. I would like to officially coin the phrase ‘catching the swine flu’ to be used as a way to make fun of a friend for hooking up with an overweight woman. Example: “Dave caught the swine flu last night.”
34. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired.
35. Bad decisions make good stories
36. Whenever I’m Facebook stalking someone and I find out that their profile is public I feel like a kid on Christmas morning who just got the Red Ryder BB gun that I always wanted. 546 pictures? Don’t mind if I do!
37. Is it just me or do high school girls get sluttier & sluttier every year?
38. If Carmen San Diego and Waldo ever got together, their offspring would probably just be completely invisible.
39. Why is it that during an ice-breaker, when the whole room has to go around and say their name and where they are from, I get so incredibly nervous? Like I know my name, I know where I’m from, this shouldn’t be a problem….
40. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you’ve made up your mind that you just aren’t doing anything productive for the rest of the day.
41. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after DVDs? I don’t want to have to restart my collection.
42. There’s no worse feeling than that millisecond you’re sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.
43. I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.
44. “Do not machine wash or tumble dry” means I will never wash this ever.
45. I hate being the one with the remote in a room full of people watching TV.. There’s so much pressure. ‘I love this show, but will they judge me if I keep it on? I bet everyone is wishing we weren’t watching this. It’s only a matter of time before they all get up and leave the room. Will we still be friends after this?’
46. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Dammit!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What’d you do after I didn’t answer? Drop the phone and run away?
47. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.
48. When I meet a new girl, I’m terrified of mentioning something she hasn’t already told me but that I have learned from some light internet stalking.
49. I like all of the music in my iTunes, except when it’s on shuffle, then I like about one in every fifteen songs in my iTunes.
50. Why is a school zone 20 mph? That seems like the optimal cruising speed for pedophiles…
51. As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate cyclists.
52. Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.
53. It should probably be called Unplanned Parenthood.
54. I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.
55. Even if I knew your social security number, I wouldn’t know what do to with it.
56. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, hitting the G-spot, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey – but I’d bet my ass everyone can find and push the Snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time every time…
57. My 4-year old son asked me in the car the other day “Dad what would happen if you ran over a ninja?” How the hell do I respond to that?
58. It really pisses me off when I want to read a story on CNN.com and the link takes me to a video instead of text.
59. I wonder if cops ever get pissed off at the fact that everyone they drive behind obeys the speed limit.
60. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
61. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lites than Kay.
62. The other night I ordered takeout, and when I looked in the bag, saw they had included four sets of plastic silverware. In other words, someone at the restaurant packed my order, took a second to think about it, and then estimated that there must be at least four people eating to require such a large amount of food. Too bad I was eating by myself. There’s nothing like being made to feel like a fat bastard before dinner

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Layla (1994-2009)

My companion of 15 years passed away yesterday. For those who haven't experienced the unconditional love of a dog or haven't yet experienced the loss of one, it's hard to understand. Her life was no less important than any other member of my family. I can barely remember life before Layla. She's always been there and no matter how we treated her or how frustrated we got, she loved us so unconditionally. I truly believe that God and dogs are the only ones who understand what true faithfulness and unconditional love is. It's been a rough two days filled with so many tears. I would give anything to have one more day with her. But I know it wouldn't matter because I want her every day after that. The bible doesn't seem very clear on the topic of if animals go to heaven or not but I know that heaven will be filled with everything that brings joy to my life. I can't imagine God not reuniting us again. But I also, unlike a lot of people, believe that dogs have souls. You can disagree with me, but my heart isn't going to change.

"For those who love dogs, it would be the worst form of a lie to call any place where dogs were banned 'Paradise.' Certainly no loving God would separate people from their canine friends for eternity"

-Stanley Coren, dog psychologist


P.S. I know it's been almost 2 months since I last posted. It's been a couple months filled with more chaos than I can even explain. But I'm back.

These photos of Layla were taken this last June...


Sunday, August 16, 2009

It'll always be the Tim and Kelly show...

My best friend, Tim, moved to California this morning. After a night filled with pretty intense emotion and tears, I had to say goodbye to the best friend I've ever had. It's been about 23 hours since I last saw him and my heart is already starting to hurt. We did however have one incredibly awesome Tim/Kelly day. We went out to the dream, painted some pottery for each other, went to a movie, went to local boyz for dinner, went to Chip Ross Park to watch the sun set and stargaze, and of course watched FRIENDS. We had a blast and I'm so thankful we got to do all of that in one day before he left. I cannot even express how much this boy means to me. I've never had a friend love me so unconditionally and so selflessly. He's incredible and will never be replaced. I even remember him joking around with me when Greg and I started getting closer, saying that Greg was replacing him. I reminded him that he is entirely irreplaceable and it will ALWAYS be the Tim and Kelly show. =)






Thursday, August 6, 2009

What Teachers Make

My friend, Emily, showed this to me a few years ago when I told her that I wanted to become a teacher but was being discouraged by some people. This teacher, Taylor Mali, is phenomenal. He speaks with conviction and really tells it like it is. There's something I find so cool about someone who isn't afraid to speak the truth and do so confidently. It's so encouraging to all teachers and anyone on their way to becoming a teacher.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Abeet and Isget

I went over to my friend Chama's house the other day and got to spend time with her and her two of three children, Abbey and Isaac. Her kids are so unbelievably adorable. Everyone says she just needs to keep making babies because if they're that cute, she can't stop. They're sweet kids too. Pretty rambunctious, but still so very sweet. My favorite thing is that ever since Isaac was born, Abbey has always called him "Isget."And Isaac calls Abbey, "Abeet." =)




Tuesday, July 28, 2009

I've waited my whole life for this one night...

I saw this on youtube a few weeks ago and now I feel like when I go to show it to someone, they've already seen it. It's become insanely popular, which I'm sure you can see why. It's probably one of the best things I've seen in a long time. How fun would a wedding like this be? And even though it isn't a serious wedding and definitely not traditional, I still get chills when I see the bride dance down the isle. Both the bride and the groom couldn't look any happier. =)

I haven't figured out how to post a video yet, so for now the link will suffice.


JK Wedding Entrance Dance

Thursday, July 23, 2009

I want to live a simple life

This is one of my favorite songs by The Weepies and it's been stuck in my head the last few days. Good music, cute people, nothing not to like.


Can I get up in the moming
Put the kettle on
Make us some coffee, say "hey" to the sun...
Is it enough to write a song and sing it to the birds?
They'd hear just the tune
Not understand my love for words
But you would hear me and know

I want only this, I want to live
I want to live a simple life.

I dreamed you first
But not so real
And everyday since I've found you
Such moments we steal
Like little thieves, we rub our hands
We hold our hearts between them.
But will you hear me and know?

I want only this, I want to live
I want to live a simple life.

Move on, move on
Time is accelerating.
Drive on all night
Traffic lights and one-ways.
Move on, move on
Parking violations waiting
Turn off the car, breathe the air
Let's stay here.

I'll kiss you awake, and we'll have time
To know our neighbors all by name
And every star at night.
We'll weave our days together like waves
And particles of light.

I want only this, I want to live
I want to live a simple life.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

What would summer be without summer school?

...probably a lot more fun. I started summer school this last Monday, which unfortunately has not been my most exciting endeavor of the summer. The good news though is that it's only 4 weeks long and will get me ahead in school. I have one 2 hour class, a 1 hour break, and then a 3 hour class. The reading for one of my classes is absolutely ridiculous. I can't even believe how much I have to read and remember. I guess that's all part of cramming all the work into 4 weeks instead of 10. I just have to remember that it's only 13 more class days and I'm done. When I think about it that way, it doesn't seem so bad. I will survive. =)

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

It's been too long...

It's been forever since I last blogged. Life has been crazy busy and chaotic. Between moving, vacationing to San Diego, doing housework, working, and trying to enjoy summer... I haven't found too much time to blog. But... I decided it was about time.

This beautiful girl is my good friend Emily. We've been friends for four years and I could not be more blessed by our friendship. She's been such a loving, understanding, and compassionate friend. I can talk to her about anything and never once has she been judgmental. She stands by me in whatever decision I make, even if she doesn't agree. She lets me make mistakes and helps me work through them. She's incredible and not only is she beautiful on the outside but probably one of the most beautiful people on the inside that I've ever known. I love you Emmy!


Monday, June 22, 2009

1st Birthday!

We celebrated Braden's 1st birthday this last Saturday. We had a lot of fun despite the unexpected chilly, windy weather. Braden seemed to enjoy himself as well but was a little overwhelmed by everything going on around him.




Auntie Em =)



My dad and sister...

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Braden

I met my sister at the park today and took some photos of my precious nephew, Braden. He wasn't exactly in the best of moods, but we made the most of it. =)




Saturday, May 30, 2009

Baby Love

I got to spend the car ride home from Eugene, sitting in the back with my nephew Braden. I snapped some cute shots of this beautiful, sweet baby. I am so in love with him! He has such strong Dietrich characteristics, I can't help but laugh. His BIG brown eyes are a quality we all have in common. I love it. =) Not only is he incredibly cute, but he has the sweetest little personality. He is just filled with joy and smiles. I can't wait to watch him as he continues to grow. We will be celebrating his 1st birthday on June 18th. I can't believe he's almost a year old!


Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Beach!

I got to go home for five days this past glorious, sunny weekend. I had a lot of fun with some good friends (including Maradith, who I haven't hung out with in months!) We watched movies, had a BBQ for Greg's birthday, ate a lot of cheesecake =), and just spent a lot of time together. It was wonderful. On Monday Luke, Greg, Tim, and I headed to Agate Beach for the day. It was a perfect day to go to the beach. Other than my half sunburned body (thanks to the sunroof) and scraped up body from a nice fall, I had an awesome time. We just basked in the sun most of the day, cooked some brauts, ate some clam chowder at Mo's, and watched the sunset. It was a really good day =)




Can I just express how much I love these guys? They are possibly my favorite animal to watch. I honestly just want to curl up and cuddle with their fat, lazy bodies. I love them so much!


Friday, May 22, 2009

Grand Jeté

I have been taking a beginning ballet class this term and it has been a lot of fun. I took it to get some fun exercise and I have really been enjoying myself and getting super strong calves =). We were required to do a creative, no restrictions ballet project that was due this last Thursday. Since I bought that new camera I decided to take some pictures of my good friend Emily, dancing. Em loves to dance and is hoping to be a dance major. We had fun taking the photos and quite a few good laughs. I really appreciated her cooperation and willingness to help me out.

Here is my favorite shot of her doing a grand jeté. She makes it look so easy! And I also snapped a quick shot of my project before turning it in.



Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Looking Up

The last few days have been kind of rough. I've been battling a bad viral throat infection and it has not been the most pleasant experience. Three doctors visits, four prescriptions, and lots of naps later, I'm starting to feel like myself again. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be able to go to all my classes, work, and be semi-productive =). My mind has been wandering so much these last couple days. Maybe just because I've had so much time to think about things. I'm not sure if its helpful or harmful to think too much, but I can't help it sometimes. I've gone through quite the series of emotions ranging from sadness, frustration, confidence, joy, and reassurance. I've also been listening to a lot of music and have once again realized its therapeutic qualities. This is kind of cheesy, and middle school-esque but I was listening to the song "Problem Girl" by Rob Thomas and for some reason it made me feel a lot better about myself. =) I also had a surprisingly encouraging conversation (via text... lame I know) with a friend who probably knows me better than anyone in the world. It was simple but he just made me feel like all the things I don't like about myself are all in my head and I'm not as much of a "problem" as I think I am. Oh, and just to be a little more lame... here are the lyrics to the song. =)

Don't let them get where they're going to
You know they're only what they think of you
You heard of this emotional trickery
And you felt like you were learning the ropes
But where you're going now you don't know

And when the kids on the street say
"What's your problem girl?"
And the weight of their smile's just
Too much for you to bear
When they all make you feel
Like you're a problem girl
Remember
You're no problem at all

Pride like promises can let you down
You thought that you'd be feeling better by now
You worry all the things they could do to you
You worry about the things they could say
Maybe you're seeing things the wrong way

Try
If you stand or you fall
You're no problem at all

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Fun Things Like Prom...

This evening I had a really fun opportunity to go to Kasey's house and photograph her brother before his junior prom. The sun was shining brightly but I was still able to get quite a few shots that weren't too terribly bright. These are a few of my favorite ones. I had a lot of fun and I adore the sweet family love in these photos.






A Good Day to Take a Walk

This afternoon Kasey and I went for a walk to Alton Baker park and spent some time by the river. It was so beautiful and warm out today! Thank God for that because the rain this last week has been getting me down. =( But today was glorious. =) Here are some of my favorite photos from today...





Saturday, May 9, 2009

The Start of Something Good

I've had this blog for quite sometime now, but it has remained post-less from day one. However, today I decided to actually start blogging. Partially because I just bought an amazing camera that I have wanted for so long and want to share my photos and partially because I like writing about life... my life, others lives, life in general. All of the above are bueno. Oh and excuse my Spanglish. I'm minoring in Spanish so I try to throw it in there very now and then =).