The Difference Between Push and Pull

THIS ONES FOR YOU

2006-09-22T17:22:00.000-05:00

Did you just say to yourself - Hey, I think I will see if Kate has posted lately?

Well, this one is for you!

Teaching is good. Today was good. Yesterday was bad. Wednesday was awful - at least I think that was Wed. I don't know.

I feel bad for my husband. It is not fair that I keep him awake crying every night. Hopefully he will get used to it.

That is about all I want to say for now. Have a great day!

2006-04-27T22:46:00.000-05:00

Well, I am in St. Louis right now. It is late on Thursday night. I really want to go to bed but whatever...

I had two interviews this week and they were a lot of fun. I will definately let you know what happens.

Prayers Please

2006-04-23T21:49:00.000-05:00

I have three interviews this week. Whoever is reading this, if you could please pray for me specifically around 10:15 and 10:30 on Tuesday morning.

Thank you everyone!

BREAK!

2006-04-18T16:12:00.000-05:00

Wow, I really need a girl's night tonight. Hey,wait a minute.... THERE IS ONE! I'm feeling better already!

2006-04-14T14:18:00.000-05:00

I'm going camping tonight. We have been waiting, what, six months! Yay!!

And my thought for the day is, "What am I getting myself into?"

I'll be taking autographs on Wed.

2006-04-10T16:27:00.000-05:00

For those of you who don't know - I'm very excited because I got an award from the math department at ISU!

You are now looking at the winner of the 2006 Senior Scholar Award!

And yes, there was money involved but I'm not sharing!

Later...

Sleeping on the back porch

2006-04-05T14:08:00.000-05:00

That should be the title of a song, don't you think :)

Yesterday I went home at 3pm like I said. Then I went out to the back deck with a blanket and a radio and enjoyed the sunshine on my face. I am pretty sure I am going to do that again today!

I've decided that as the weather gets nice I should take walks during my afternoon break.

A school I applyed to has filled all their positions. Well, at least they have three people they want to hire. I'm not sure if all those people are going to accept the job.

It is fun to hear where eveyone has accepted an offer and see where everyone is going. Everyone but me :(

It is almost time to head out and go to a math department meeting, yay! Catch you on the flip side!

Hi there, Kate here.

2006-04-04T11:09:00.000-05:00

I am tired of lesson planning so I am taking a break. And, this whole losing an hour thing - NOT COOL! I'm trying to catch up but I just can't.

Yesterday I took my sister to get her hair done for her birthday. You should have seen how happy she was. It was a lot of fun.

As for today, I am going to go home at 3 and be in bed by 3:30 for the night. I might eat something too but who knows.

Hope your week is going well. Peace out!

Happy Birthday to me!

2006-03-31T10:11:00.001-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

Thank you for my card, Chris! And, happy birthday to Dwight too!

I love Flick

2006-03-15T12:16:00.000-06:00

OKay, so I know I don't have a lot of time to blog so this is all I will share for now:

• In Troy, Mich., officials said a 30-year-old who in 2000 beat to death his mother with a chair leg, crowbar, hammer and iron weights in their home before using a hacksaw to cut off her face and eat her eyes was progressing nicely, should be placed in a group home and then returned to the community because his mental illness was in remission.

Have a great day!

Whew

2006-03-09T08:59:00.000-06:00

Well, yesterday I was talking to someone (another student teacher) and they said, "So, are you interviewing at Normal?" Odd question but apparently they were already setting up interviews with people who talked to them at the Job Fair last week.

Well, I didn't talk to them at the job fair because I talked to the principal the week before that. So, I scrambled to finish the application and email my cover letter and resume. How incredibly stressful! Do I really need a job, really? I asked Scott before if I could be a house wife but he didn't seem to like that idea for some reason - what is his problem ;)

Just so everyone knows - I taught all five classes yesterday for the first time and I think I am going to die. I have never been so exhausted in my life. Why does it have to be so draining?

So, please pray that I eventually find a job and it is at the school God wants me to be teaching at. I'm having trouble deciding which school I even want to be at.

Chris- Wow

2006-03-07T14:57:00.000-06:00

Chris, all I can say is W O W...

http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/llama.php

My Point

2006-03-07T11:28:00.000-06:00

It is obvious that I am used to ISU schedule because I am at the point where I NEED spring break and I can feel that it is here and yet - no. I have three more weeks until spring break.

It is a little odd that my spring break will be so late in the semester because when I come back I only have like 17 more days of teaching (not that I am counting). I wish the break was a little sooner but a late break is better than no break I suppose.

In case you did not know - March is the time of Scott's birthday and my birthday. Very exciting. It really isn't exciting but this year we are going to a hockey game and I think that will be really fun. Plus, it usually signals the beginning of warmer weather :)

I called my step-mom the other day and mentioned that I am reading Captivating and she was like "that is funny because I got it for my birthday this weekend!" So, now I have someone to read the book with!!! Not that all the other women from the retreat aren't reading it but you know, she's family :)

I'm sorry that I don't have anything exciting to say. Life is pretty boring. Same old thing every day. Wake up early, go to school, rush last minute to get worksheets printed, teach, stay after school for 2 hours, go home exhausted, eat, sleep, repeat.

Hope your life is more exciting than mine!!!!

Retreat!

2006-03-06T13:48:00.001-06:00

Well, I had a good weekend - what about you?

I'm glad that there is no school today.... I really need a break after such an emotionally draining weekend.

I'm not realy sure I have much else to say. I am reading my captivating book and so far so good!

Later peeps!

Oh, and Karrie - you'll have to ask Melissa your question because she was the one that gave me the idea!

Retreat!

2006-03-06T13:48:00.000-06:00

Are you mocking me?

2006-02-27T10:41:00.000-06:00

Well, just and update. I had a WONDERFUL day on Friday. I had a seminar at ISU and in the afternoon we had mock interviews. I was able to have one with the head of the math department at NCHS and one with the principal of BHS. Wow, it was a lot of fun. I learned a lot.

I also got to chat with the principal of NCHS and then asked her about how to apply. She told me to do all the online stuff but then email her all my stuff and she would look at it right away.

How cool is that. So, hopefully I will be able to find a job somewhere in this town with all the cool new friends I made of Friday!

By the way, teaching is so much fun but takes a lot of time. I have a feeling that as the semester progresses, I won't be posting as much.

One last thing - MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW. Kate and her awesomely awesome sister Megan will be having a graduation party at Northside on May 13th. They will even be having a blow-up jumping thingy (thanks to Melissa for her wonderful ideas!) Be there or b^2.

2006-02-22T10:34:00.000-06:00

Well, since we are all telling our favorite TV Shows - here is mine.

The name is 24. And you should watch it. Actually, don't watch it. One day Gary came home with the first season on DVD and we watched a few episodes and then a few more and a few more until it was the next day.

So, if you like sleep - do not rent 24 on DVD! (But it is sooooo goooooooddddd!)

Today, Kate is tired...

2006-02-21T10:45:00.000-06:00

Z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z .....

You are now watching Court TV

2006-02-17T10:06:00.000-06:00

Well, I met with my lawyer yesterday. And he was like "Well, we are going to set a court date thing and it will be sometime in May or June." And I start thinking to myself how great that timing is because I have two days in May that I can't miss (they won't let me graduate - yay for going to school an extra semester!) and the mission trip in June.

So, I gave him those dates and he said, "I will try to get the date scheduled around these .... (then something about making the judge mad)."

Ugh... this is such a pain to have to deal with!!! Why is this guy doing this to me!!!!

No, (0,0) is not chicken

2006-02-16T09:55:00.000-06:00

An update on Valentine's Day. When I came home my husband had a key to a hotel room ready. Wow, he must have done something really wrong! :)

Now I am sitting in class eating peanut butter pie and it is sooooo good. One of my classes brought it in.

Next, my favorite church secretary is coming to have lunch with me today! And, she is bringing me curly fires from Arby's!

Last, I am going to visit with my lawyer today so that should be loads of fun!!! Oh, wait. I don't think I have told everybody about why I have a lawyer and why someone wants $50,000 from me. Well, I don't feel like typing it so if you want to know - ask me next time you see me! (I really needed something else to stress about right now).

Hope everyone has a lovely day!!

Valentine's Day

2006-02-14T11:58:00.000-06:00

Well, it is Valentines day and my husband has never gotten me anything. Which is fine, by the way. I'm not a big "you need to get me a dozen roses and candy to show you love me" kind of person.

However, today ..... my husband brought me roses and candy at school. It is actually a kinda funny story.

So, he goes to my classroom and walks in. It is the middle of class and he thinks to himself, "Good, Kate has a class right now." However, he looks around and soon realizes that he doesn't recognize anyone. So, he asks the teacher where he could find Mr. Thakral (my cooperating teacher). So, now it looks like Mr. Thakral is getting flowers from some weird man. Ha ha. I thought it was funny.

Okay, well I am going to head back to my classroom. Thank you sweetie for my wonderful flowers!

What?! Is Kate Posting?

2006-02-13T09:58:00.000-06:00

Well, hello to anyone who is reading this. I finally had some time and something to blog about so here it goes.

Last Thursday was pretty stressful. I was getting observed teaching Algebra. Also, the person observing me - well, lets just say she isn't afraid to tell you to change your major. So, I was pretty excited.

So, the time finally came. I was doing a lesson on scientific notation. During one of the activities one of my students drew a suspicious looking leaf on the board. Great.

Anyway, after the lesson we go to a conference room so we can talk about how my lesson went. What she said seriously surprised me. She said it was one of the best lessons she had ever seen. Not only that but she gave me an A!! (Now, just so you know, she doesn't believe that any preservice teacher can earn an A because of our limited experience.)

I just wanted to share that with whoever still reads this. It was a good ending to an awful week :)

None

2005-08-12T11:54:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it. It is finally done. I hate doing it every semester but I bought my textbooks. It wasn't too bad (plus I needed a break from this hole that is the Science Laboratory Building). I already had one of the books from another class (yay!) and I actually found another of my books online in PDF format. Weird. you need a password though and the website says to email the author, tell a little about yourself and he will decide if you are worthy of a password. Basically I said please please please let my read your book online so I don't have to buy it!

So, that is about it. I also have to get a new parking pass - more money. It is kind of nice knowing that after December 14th I won't have to work here ever again. But at the same time this is a walk in the park compared to - well - the rest of my life. Oh well. You win some you lose some.

Good Day!

I love Jars

2005-08-10T23:16:00.000-05:00

They say that I can move the mountains
And send them crashing to the sea
They say that I can walk on water
If I would follow and believe
With Faith Like a Child

They say that love can heal the broken
They say that hope can make you see
They say that faith can find a Savior
If you would follow and believe
With Faith Like a Child

Village People

2005-08-09T22:51:00.000-05:00

Well Beaner - I think you are the only one that still reads this so THIS ONE IS FOR YOU!

So, first was Jars of Clay and they were wonderful. We got to meet the band after the show and my step-mom got a picture with the lead singer. I don't think they liked the food at the carnival place because they were like "Have you eaten anything here yet? Don't get these chocolate things- they are no good!" Any my step-mom got this free pice of paper signed by them and felt she had to explain to them that she isn't too cheap to buy their cd's - she just has all of them.

Then we went in search of food - staying away from the items the band warned about. Then a carnival ride for my sister. Then we went over to the stage where the village people were supposed to be. We apparently got there late because we were really far back (as compared to 15 feet for Jars). So we did the best to see what we could. They came out in their costums looking pretty funny and doing some crazy dancing. Now here is the thing. These people looked young and we couldn't see that well but they shouldn't be able to move that well when they are that old. So, we aren't sure if these people were real. Does that make sense? And they did a bunch of old favorite songs - not just the ones they are supposed to be famous for. That was actually pretty funny because when they would start a song everyone would be like "Is this their song? I don't know, do you know?" Hahaha

So, I was going to look around online and see if I can find some imposters but they were advertised as the Village People. They just seem like they should be old - REAL old. Don't know.

CAR WASH

2005-07-05T17:11:00.000-05:00

Car Wash - Saturday, July 9, 10-2 be there.

So, I going on vacation and won't post till we get back. See ya!

Yay! Heat index: 105

2005-06-24T10:57:00.000-05:00

Wed. night went SUPER! Mark- your best lesson yet. I know he was scared but he pushed through and it really went well. He started with how much he misses the teens. That was hard because I know the teens miss him (even if the won't admit it) and I know I miss him a lot. I'm just used to seeing him all the time and now I don't. I miss his lessons and his presence but I know we will all get through this.

Having lunch with Mark and Scott today. I am really looking forward to it.

Then, Relay for Life. I know a lot of people will be at the campout but if you aren't you should be at Normal Community West High School visiting will all your Northside friends. (I'll be there, what more do you need?)

Peace out.

Another thing to pray about

2005-06-22T09:42:00.000-05:00

Well, real quick I thought I would mention that Mark is going to come talk to the teens tonight and Jeanna will be maybe in a few weeks. Please pray that it goes well and emotions are expressed in productive ways!

It's Wednesday

2005-06-15T11:10:00.000-05:00

Ya, so tonight...

If you guys could just pray for the teens a little bit - tonight is the first meeting with the teens since Sunday, obviously, and we are going to be talking about a lot of stuff with them.

Some of them are handling things okay and some aren't. Some are acting like its no big deal (even though I know how close they are to the situation) and are instead taking their anger out on, oh, for instance me. So that is fun...

So, just pray for these kids. I know they will be okay but they really miss Mark ... so do I.

2005-06-13T13:24:00.000-05:00

I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
and wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
More and more I need you now,
I owe you more each passing hour
the battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago
So steal my heart and take the pain
and wash the feet and cleanse my pride
take the selfish, take the weak,
and all the things I cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
the sin-soaked heart and make it yours
take my world all apart
take it now, take it now
and serve the ones that I despise
speak the words I can't deny
watch the world I used to love
fall to dust and thrown away
I look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
so wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
so steal my heart and take the pain
take the selfish, take the weak
and all the things I cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
take my world apart, take my world apart
I pray, I pray, I pray
take my world apart
we're worlds apart

Can something good come from this?

2005-06-13T11:52:00.000-05:00

Of course it can because God is working now. I think it has done something to all of our walks with Christ.

I'm not going to lie. I'm feel hurt, betrayed, and deceived. But, I also feel love for everybody. On Sunday, I wanted to scream and Mark and hit him as hard as I could. But when he finally walked over to me what was the only thing I could do? Love him - because that is what God told me to do.

It is hard to give forgiveness to people sometimes. But that is what God does without a second thought for us.

2005-06-12T20:53:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we forget that Satan wants to destroy everything that is good. Pray for our church...

Hmmm...

2005-05-25T11:32:00.000-05:00

So, I rode the bike to work today. Then at work I cleaned the CHEM140 Lab and now I am officially exhausted. The only thing is, I have to ride my bike back home.

I think I will go to the store today and buy some food. I know it is crazy to think that we would actually have something in our fridge besides pop that tastes like water but hey, its a new day.

So, I obviously have nothing to write about but I felt bad that I haven't updated. Have a great day!

What's the hold up here?

2005-05-17T10:19:00.000-05:00

So, I have been a bit nervous lately. It seemed that everyone else knew where they were going to be student teaching next year but me. I also recalled the lady who organizes everything saying we should know by Feb. Well, here I was in May with no idea. Did I file some paper work wrong? Was I going to have to go a whole extra year for some stupid mistake?

So, I finally found out the deal. It was recommended that I work with this teacher at BHS (Sam's math teacher at the moment actually - at least I think). However, he apparently has a ST in the fall from IWU and he was trying to get approval from some chairperson to be able to have another in the spring. Hence, I am the last to know where I am going. I hope it works out! He sounds like a cool teacher to work with!

Good-bye

2005-05-04T08:15:00.000-05:00

Will post again after finals...

2005-04-26T20:41:00.000-05:00

He is just so sweet....

2005-04-26T20:35:00.000-05:00

Picture of Brooke from today. She wasn't really wanting to take pictures today... fun.

2005-04-25T18:51:00.000-05:00

My most recent photography session with Hunter. I was learning how to use my new camera. Do you like it?

2005-04-22T21:57:00.000-05:00

My sister sent me this and I thought I would share it with ya'll. A little after easter/weekend humor if you will.

Story For Your Heart

2005-04-21T15:37:00.000-05:00

Let me tell you about a little boy.

For the most part of his first five years he lived in a car. After that, his family would temporarily live with friends.

As a young child, crying meant he got locked in a bedroom - often forgotten about for days.

When he was two years old, he fell out of a second story window. He had a massive head injury and when the paramedics arrived they gave him a shot of antibiotics to prevent infection until they could get to the hospital. He had a terrible reaction to the shot. At the hospital, the doctor informed his father that they had to perform surgery to relieve pressure on his little brain. The father said no because they had no insurance. The father took the boy home and a few days later it was obvious he needed the surgery so his father let the doctors do it.

At three years old he was attacked be a dog leaving him with facial deformities the rest of his life.

At five years old he had to get a physical from a doctor to be able to go to school. The doctor found his penis almost severed in half. Apparently his parents had tied a string around him in an attempt to potty train him.

At that point DCFS was notified and the boy was placed in a group home where he was sexually abused.

At the age of nine his great-grandparents (84 years old) adopted him to try to give him a better life. They worry about what will happen to him after they can't keep him anymore.

This same little boy was out with Gary one day when they walked passed a blind person. He looks up at Gary and says, "I feel bad for that person."

It's a Jeep thing...

2005-04-20T15:55:00.000-05:00

So, my wonderful husband has decided we should go to a meeting tonight. Go ahead and guess what kind of meeting this is because you never will....

It is a meeting of Jeep Owners. That's right. My awesome husband has decided he wants a Jeep (apparently he has already asked for some of your opinions on the subject). Here is the weird thing - the part I can't explain. What better way to describe it than by a story.

One day, I was putting some leftovers into the fridge and with something I decided to just wrap it in foil and throw it in the fridge. Well, my husband saw this and was not pleased. He turns to me and as loving as possible starts to say, "Maybe we could be a bit more aware of how we use aluminum foil because that stuff isn't cheap. Maybe we could use our tupperware for things like this...." And on it goes. He is so frugal that we need to watch our aluminum foil usage!

So, when he tells me that he thinks we should have three cars, I thought he was joking.

I'm pretty sure he asked for some advice from someone he works with on how to convince me to let him get the Jeep and that person said, "Just tell her that it is either a Jeep or a motorcycle. Not getting anything is not an option."

The sad part is I am starting to think it isn't such a bad idea.

It's Over

2005-04-18T13:24:00.000-05:00

So, the lock-in is over obviously. It was really nice. Things really started to crazy fun around midnight. Wow, hide and seek was fun. And how about not going to bed until 8:30am?

Anyway, I had someone I've never seen before stop me on campus today and say "We are having a prayer meeting tomorrow night. Is there anything you want us to pray about for you?"

So, this was totally unexpected but the girl asking me was really cute and you cold tell she was nervous.

This is why I NEVER go to the quad. I only did today because it was nice out and I wanted to see the pretty flowers. Usually there are people handing out flyers telling you to go see their band or sign something against sexual assault or buy a papa john's pizza (no kidding). It drives me crazy. All I want is to peacefuly walk to class and not be attacked by people wanting stuff from me.

The prayer thing wasn't so bad because they are okay with a "No thanks." The other people yell at you at you. Bah..

Pray for...

2005-04-15T08:56:00.000-05:00

Lock-In tonight.

Do I really need to say anything else?

And.... TIME!

2005-04-14T08:56:00.000-05:00

So, I think most of you have had enough time to comment. I did the math but we won't go into that. Thank you all for your comments. It was very nice of you!

This is what I am thinking about today:

Hebrews 11:6
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

I think this stuck out to me because of what has been said on Chris' blog lately. We act like "good christians" and talk like "good christians" but it isn't about being "good christians." It is about pleasing God and doing all those things in faith. Doing them because we know they give glory to God and because he rewards thoses who seek him.

I'll let you think more about this on your own. What is God saying to you through this verse?

Warning level elevated

Is anyone home?

2005-04-11T21:33:00.000-05:00

Hello again to all my friends. I'm glad you came to play. Oour fun and learning never ends. Here's what we did today.

Five imaginary dollars for anyone that can correctly identify where the previous is from.

Okay anyway, I was just looking at my blog and I recently put the website counter at the bottom (don't know if you noticed). And to my suprise, there are a lot more people reading this than I ever thought. I figured there were maybe a couple of people who read this thing. However, maybe there is someone throwing the data off by going to my blog 80 times a day. So here is the thing: If you are reading this will you respond one time only. Remain anonymous if you would like but please just leave a comment so I can see how many people really read this thing. I think it would be interesting.

I know there are a lot of blogs I read but don't usually comment on. Hmmm.....

My Commitment as a Christian

2005-04-08T08:14:00.000-05:00

I'm part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, deluded, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He comes for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me--my banner will be clear!

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2005-04-07T10:22:00.000-05:00

So, our nursing student should be leaving Chicago tomorrow to go back to Britian. Very sad. We loved her so much and both the students that came were a lot of fun.

But, when I think about her, I get sad (four year old word choice- I know). She lived with us so obviously she could see how involved we were in the church and our belief in Jesus and everything else that goes along with being christian. But, she wouldn't come to church with us. This was weird because our other students wanted to. They wanted to see what it was about because it was so different from their culture. But not Nikki.

Well, our cultures are pretty similar so church isn't a big shock. She said it wasn't because she doesn't believe in God - she does believe God is there. It is that she doesn't believe God is good. That is hard for me to hear for some reason.

It is nothing personally in her life - she has been rather blessed. She just can't look at the world and believe that God is good.

So, this is just weird for me because the person that is saying this to me is someone I've grown close to and think highly of - but then she tells me that God isn't good.

I don't know.

Warning!

Blogging Makes Headlines

2005-04-06T09:42:00.000-05:00

All I have for today is this news article about blogging.

Is that my brain you are drilling?

2005-04-04T15:34:00.000-05:00

So,

Today I went to the dentist. I had my first cavity. He filled it up with white stuff.

Let me tell you about this dentists though. He is awesome. First, you walk in and they are playing christian music and everyone is happy. Seriously.... they all have smiles and really want to make you feel comfortable and get to know you. Also, the dentists does some mission kind of work where he goes to other countries and offers his services.

Its not easy getting into see him because so many people go to him and he is sometimes in another country but well worth the wait. Let me know if you are looking for a dentist.

And then we’d be happy .... Wouldn't it be nice

2005-04-03T20:29:00.000-05:00

SO,

Shasa has prompted me to blog about something I was thinking today.

I came home and it was beautiful outside. And while I did have a few essays I should be writing, I decided it would be nice to take a few minutes to sit outside. My world of corn fields has been dark and cold for so long with bitter winds and icy snows. But not today.

Today, I got to sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. I felt the sun on my skin, something I had almost forgotten about. Don't you know that feeling? When it isn't necessarily hot outside but you feel your skin getting warmed by the sun?

Well, you can probably see where this is going. Our walk with God is like this. There are cold days where I have a bad attitude and just complain about being cold. There are other days where it is so easy to be happy. Why can't I be happy everyday? Don't I know what is on the other side of those clouds? Don't I know that God is always shining on my heart? Why do I let the clouds get in the way of reflecting that wonderful sunshine?

April Fools Day

2005-04-01T10:29:00.000-06:00

When I was little, my friends would not always believe that yesterday was my birthday because they thought it was an April Fools trick. Anyway....

April Fools Day. Why are we still mentioning it? How did it ever get on our calendar? I don't know the answers to these questions but I can give a short history lesson.

A long, long time ago, the beginning of the year was April 1 (something about the first day of spring and the year should start at spring because that is when you can start growing food again). But, some pope decided that new years should be Jan. 1 instead (not sure why). So, some countries started to change over but there were people who didn't want to change (imagine that). These people were given a hard time. The French were especially hard on their traditionalists. They called April 1st "April Fish Day" because as a joke they would draw pictures of fish and but them on people's back because that makes a lot of sense. They would also try to get the traditionalists to go on bogus errands and tell them things that weren't true to try to get them to believe them. Weird.

And here we are, with people talking about how it is April Fools day 500 years later. Awesome.

Warning: Your posts may be monitered!

... make me feel this way? My girl, my...

2005-03-31T05:38:00.000-06:00

MRI was normal. Or as Scott says, "The MRI of Kate's brain didn't show anything. I'm not sure what that means."

So, who knows why I am not well. I think its my prostate...

P.S. It's somebody's Birthday!

WARNING: Your posts may be monitered!

today

2005-03-30T09:59:00.000-06:00

Doctor should call me today...

Whatever, I do what I want!

2005-03-25T08:43:00.000-06:00

This week is over!! And this is why I am happy about it:

1. Doctor's visits take up too much time.
2. I woke up at 3 or 3:30 every day this week (except today.... I slept in until 7am, stupid doctor's appointment at 7:30)
3. I went to bed late every night because I had so much work to do.

But, now its over!!! You have no idea how great it is that this week is done. Have I mentioned that this week is pretty much over?

So, now I need to shower and eat and finish my work from last night that I quit doing around 2am because I was tired. Weird.

Have a good weekend every body!!

It's over!

2005-03-24T14:13:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let all you chaps (do you like that new vocabulary?) that today was the my last day teaching at U-High (well, until next semester but I digress). It was good.

My teacher told me that when we talked last night she was worried about how I was going to do today (how did she know that I hadn't started thinking about the lesson yet and didn't plan on thinking about it until 3 o'clock this morning?). However, today went really well. The kids actually talked (7am class, you know how that goes) and participated and everything. It is kinda of weird how my grade depended on wether or not the kids would answer my question.

Anyway, it went well and now it is OVER.

The End

Here I am

2005-03-22T13:21:00.000-06:00

Here I am, posting.... just like I've been trying to do but it kept saying "No." So here is what the post that was never posted said (just the headlines):

Japanese student left. The day before she left we got a phone call and learned we were needed to host someone else. This someone else is from the UK. Japanese student was nice and we didn't have any major problems but it was nice to have the house to ourselves again and not have to worry about being all respectful and stuff.

Okay. Now here is what I want the new post to say:

We picked up our new guest on Saturday. She is a nurse. She worked at a home for Blind people and did house to house community work taking care of people. Now she wants to work with cancer patients and is going back to school for this. She is from Sussex, somewhere just a few miles north of Brighton (for those of you familiar with the area). She is 38 (I think) and has two daughters. She is AWESOME! We love having her around. I hope she likes being around us, too. We've been pretty busy and not fun lately. Oh well.

On a more serious note, I went to the doctor yesterday. So, I haven't been feeling well and I'm having what the doctor calls "not normal headaches" whatever that means. Oh, and my heart rate is going crazy! So I had to get my heart checked but that was okay and the doctor said it probably is just doing that because of the amount of pain I am in. So, since I get debilitating headaches all the time, I am on medicine for people who suffer chronic pain. I feel like an 80 year old. I have to take it everyday even if I feel fine. I can only have 11 refills though within the next year...

Anyway, I want the doctors to be able to find something wrong with me so they can fix it. I'm having an MRI on Friday so that's good. Hopefully I will be able to start thinking more clearly, sleeping more, and living a normal life again soon.

Peace out.

Yay for Updates!

2005-02-27T19:19:00.000-06:00

So, here's the update!

Things are going well. We are talking more and getting along better. Not that we weren't getting along well but its hard to get along when you can't talk. I actually felt bad for her the other night because she told me she wants to talk more but she can't. I think it frustrates her.

On Saturday we took Haruka and Satomi to Starved Rock. They really liked it and thought it was cool. They took lots of pictures. We took them to where the murders were and they took pictures there, too.

On Tuesday Haruka is going to a Bulls game with another host family. She really likes basketball because both her parents were basketball players.

She went with me to Number Theory class. We had a quiz and she took it for fun and got the answers right. There are people in our class that hear it in english and still can't seem to get the answers right. Weird. After class she told me she understood that class better than any of the classes she had been to so far. That was cool.

So, tonight, Scott is helping my sister write a resume and Haruka is listening to a cd. I think it is 3 Doors Down. I just finished filling out my financial aid information. I don't think I'm going to get anything this yera again. Oh well.

So, that is probably enough information for now. Catch ya'll on the flip slide! (I get to babysit at 6am so bed is in order!)

Valentine's Day

2005-02-14T22:03:00.000-06:00

Okay...

We were at the airport at 9:30 pm to pick up our student on Sunday night. Then the flight was delayed until 11:30. Then it was delayed until 12:15. Yay.

So, I just finished showing her how to use the shower and now I am ready for bed. Her English is not very good and she is too nice to tell us when she doesn't understand something. So, like yesterday for instance:

Me: We have to leave the house by 10:15. (I even wrote it out on paper)
Her: Yah, okay.
Me: So you will be ready in the morning by 10:15? Do you need to use the shower?
Her: Yah, okay.
Me: What time do you need the shower?
Her: Yah, okay.
Me: Right....

Needless to say, 10:15 came and went this morning and I barely made it to class on time. Yay. Overall, the students are very nice and are a pleasure to be around. They start their English classes tomorrow morning so they will be learning more. That's what they are here for after all!

Okay

2005-02-11T08:02:00.000-06:00

It has been a busy week and this weekend is going to be CRAZY! I have a number theory test today and we are driving down to be with Don and Sylvia tonight. Then tomorrow we have to get ready for the exchange student. So, I promised updates with the student so don't let me forget that.

The ski trip was pretty cool. Tubing was so much fun. If only it hadn't been 60 outside...

See you on the flip side.

Ski Patrol to the Rescue

2005-02-04T17:30:00.000-06:00

Church Ski Trip this weekend. Pray that we can all stay safe (and in one piece).

Tater Tots

2005-01-29T15:13:00.000-06:00

So, Friday I borrowed some money for lunch and went and bought some tater tots. I didn't have time to eat them all before class though.

If there was only some way I could have saved them so I could be blessed with their taste later in the day!

The Deal

2005-01-27T15:13:00.000-06:00

Okay, so here is what has been up with school. It seems like there is always something that goes wrong.

So, I have this class about teaching. As part of the class, we have to teach. So, three hours a week are spent learning about teaching and three hours are spend at U-High using our new found knowledge. We register for each part seperately.

I went to my class Monday night and learn that my teacher is Dr. Benson. Then I also find out that she is my "mentor teacher person" (the teacher I spend the three hours a week with at U-High). She tells me that I can't have the same teacher for both the class and the U-High lab and I need to drop her class.

Here is my problem. My schedule is not so flexible that I can just be like "Hey, I think I am just going to drop this class and maybe add this one..." Also, there is no way I could have know while registering that I had the same teacher and, more importantly, known it was going to be a problem. Personally, I don't think she should teach both if things like this would be a problem.

The good news is I have switched out of her class but she is still my mentor teacher person. Hopefully, we can start to get along better. Also, my new teacher is being very understanding and realizing that it isn't my fault. He is meeting with me individually to catch me up on the two weeks I missed.

The bad news is that I no longer have Tuesday nights free. That is when we have singing practice. Now I am sad and Dwight is probably more stressed. I feel really bad about all of this :(

Student

2005-01-24T13:21:00.000-06:00

Okay so... just to let ya'll know, we will be hosting another student starting Feb 13 and this time I will keep you informed, not that any of you care.

She is from Asahikawa, Japan which is where I traveled as an exchange student. So, I haven't used any Japanese in seven years so we will see what (if anything) I remember.

It is time for lunch so I am going to eat my chicken noodle soup. Peace out....

Napoleon Dynamite

2005-01-21T16:17:00.000-06:00

Which Napolean Dynamite Character are you? I was the tater tots....

Seriously

2005-01-20T17:16:00.000-06:00

This is a serious website.... http://www.vhemt.org/

Let me know what you think.... It makes me think a lot about why God put us here.

New Building

2005-01-19T08:39:00.000-06:00

The new ISU Business building is sooooooo cool. You have to take a look at it. You can read all about it here.

Enjoy!

Classes

2005-01-18T16:27:00.000-06:00

Well, today was the first official day of classes (I don't have any on Tuesdays and Thursdays). However, I have been working on one of my internet classes all through break. I thought you guys might like to take a look at it. It is supposed to be the "future of education" but we will see. I like it. It is a lot of fun. The class is "Social Foundations of Education." You can login as a visitor. Have fun!

MY CLASS!!

Christmas is Over

2005-01-17T11:34:00.000-06:00

So, my break is pretty much over. Tomorrow is working and Wednesday I have classes. So, I am back blogging. I think it helps keep me happy during the school year. So, while today is MLK day so it is a day off, I will make this short. Here is a verse I was reading the other night with my husband. Let me know how it makes you feel...

THE BAD NEWS IS...
(The LORD speaking here)
When you spread out your hands in prayer,
I will hide my eyes from you;
even if you offer many prayers,
I will not listen.

THE GOOD NEWS IS...
"Come now, let us reason together,"
says the LORD .
"Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
they shall be like wool.
If you are willing and obedient,
you will eat the best from the land;
but if you resist and rebel,
you will be devoured by the sword."
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

Larry has been talking a lot about being devoted in prayer for someone but is God hearing those prayers?

Sick

2004-12-22T13:02:00.000-06:00

Do you know what the very best time to get sick is? THE DAYS LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS. I mean, its not like I'm busy or have things that need done before the holiday... No.....

I'm spending my time in bed now.

Next blog update in a week or so. Merry Christmas.

Christmas Card

2004-12-16T11:04:00.000-06:00

This card reminded me of the Worship Team and I just wanted to give everyone who reads my blog a christmas card. So, http://www.hallmark.com/ECardWeb/ECardPickupView.jsp?c=EG0657771124983&msgid=14207419&n=Tj%7dn&e=tnwrnu%7cIru%7c%7d%7e7nm%7e&BAE=3&mailID=BAE_ECARD&s=wo%04%3b9%3aA&p=%5dqjwt%7c%29ox%7b%29%7bnjmrwp%29v%03%29kuxp%29jwm%29qj%7fn%29j%29VN%5b%5bb%29LQ%5bR%5c%5dVJ%5c%2a&f=y

You see, the thing is...

2004-12-15T20:41:00.000-06:00

So, for those of you who want an update (and those of you who don't care), my math test...how you say... didn't go great. All the problems were the hardest she could have possibly chosen. So, that's cool.

I will get my grade on Monday when I go into work. Until then, 2 more finals to go.

2004-12-14T13:52:00.000-06:00

Just a small glimps into the world that I am studying! (Yay for digital cameras!)

Finals

2004-12-14T10:41:00.000-06:00

Okay folks, here's the deal.

I have a HUGE final tomorrow. Yesterday, I went to work and later did about 30 minutes of studying. Opps.

So, today, after lunch with the head of the department (scary) I must study. No time for post. Must go!

2004-12-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

My other angel.

2004-12-11T18:29:00.000-06:00

My little angel!!

2004-12-11T14:11:00.000-06:00

My cookie jar!

What does the bible have to say?

2004-12-09T16:38:00.001-06:00

Colossians 3:23-24
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. "

Okay, so I can be a lazy person. I have a lot of freedom at work and sometimes that is a bad thing. I also hate school work (how ironic the Lord has called me to spend the rest of my life in school).

But as a Christian, when I slack and do a bad job, my Father knows. And how must that make Him feel? He sent me here for a reason. I am here to work for Him and here I am, calling myself a Christian to others, yet not showing it in my work. He must be ashamed. I want to let the glory of my Lord shine through my school work to my professor and show to my boss as well. I want my Father to be proud of me.

It's not just that work. It's His work, too. Sometimes I know what God would want me to do and I just don't do it. Am I that selfish that I can inconvenience myself in order to glorify God? After all He has done for me...

I no longer work for my professors. I no longer work for my boss. I no longer work for the "popular vote." I work for my Lord Jesus Christ.

Done.

All work and no play...

2004-12-09T15:55:00.000-06:00

Sometimes (key word sometime) I wish I were more like my husband. He always gives 100% to all the work he does. I don't on the other hand, unless it is something I like doing.

So, you may be asking yourself, "Self? Where has Kate been since September? I mean, it was 90 outside (32.2 C for the rest of the world) the last time she posted!!" Here I am to answer that question.

I like blogging. I could read and write blogs all day. However, my current circumstances prohibit such acts. Math is one of those subjects that requires a lot of thinking and doing problems. Education is a bunch of busy work. Put the two together and you have yourself one fun semester. So, in an attempt to make the grades I know I can, I put aside blogging when our exchange students arrived because there weren't enough hours in the day.

So, here I am, 3 months later, blogging while I am at work. Do I have a final tomorrow that I should be studying for right now? Yes. Are the teens coming over tonight so I can't study then? Yes.

Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a slacker! But luckily the semester is almost over and soon I can spend time doing all the things I want to do. Example, Scott and I are going to read The Purpose Driven Life together and I am very excited about that.

Well, I am going to go start my post for tomorrow so I'll let you kids go. BYE!

Yay for church!

2004-12-09T09:21:00.000-06:00

Extracts From Church Bulletins

1. The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours".

2. Bertha Belch, a missionary from Africa, will be speaking tonight at Calvary Methodist Hall. Come and hear Bertha Belch all the way from Africa.

3. The cost for attending the Prayer and Fasting Conference includes meals.

4. The Low Esteem Support Group will meet next Thursday at 7pm. Please use the back door.

5. The sermon this morning: "Jesus walks on water". The sermon tonight: "Searching for Jesus"

6. Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Don't forget your husbands.

7. The ladies of the church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.

8. At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What is hell?". Come early and listen to our choir practice.

9. Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members, and to the deterioration of some older ones.

10. This evening there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.

VIRUS ALERT

2004-12-08T10:36:00.000-06:00

Just incase you missed this one:

SB Email

Learn How to Tell a Story

2004-12-07T13:28:00.000-06:00

A few things...

1. Okay, the semester is almost over and then you will have more blogs from me than you want. Sometimes you have to make priorities, ya know? OK

2. The exchange thing went well. A few miscommunications since I don't speak Russian but it was fun. We should be hosting a Japanese student around Feb. Having actually been an exchange student in Japan, hopefully that will be a little easier (culture wise). Overall, I suggest everyone capable to become a host family!!!

3. Read my husband's blog because I said so!!

What is my problem?

2004-11-09T20:42:00.000-06:00

I am so lame. I haven't posted in forever. School has been really busy. Even my husband wants to start a blog. Check it out. No seriously, check it out.

Day 2

2004-09-05T20:35:00.000-05:00

Well, these last two days have gone well. I will admit I was very nervous!!! I was scared we were going to get someone who was rude (someone put that in my head) but she is wonderful. Her name is Milla. I feel bad because we have been so busy with the holiday weekend but hopefully tomorrow she can get some rest.

At Gary and Sandy's people kept asking her questions and she didn't understand them. Gary's family is Polish so they started speaking Polish to her and that really confused her. We played a lot of games. She liked Ping Pong. She said she had never seen it before so we were glad to intorduce them. Well, that is all really. I am very tired so I am going to bed. Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend all!

Count Down

2004-09-03T16:03:00.000-05:00

EXCHANGE STUDENTS ARRIVES IN: 1 Day!!!!

Okay everyone.... so our exchange student will be hear in about 24 hours. That is how much time I have to get the house in order and think of ways to make her feel welcome.

Pray for us. Not sure exactly what you should pray for but pray anyway!!!!

I will keep you posted on our adventures in the next month...

McDonald's, McDonald's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and a Pizza Hut

2004-09-01T20:09:00.000-05:00

In our culture we are all about saving time, aren't we? Our cars are faster, our computers are more efficient, and when can be served dinner before you can say "would you like fires with that?"

Sadly, we often carry this mentality over into our spiritual lives. Our prayers are more like pit stops in the Daytona 500 or a drive thru at McDonald's. We quickly tell God our order and try to get out of their as soon as possible. And watch out if we should have to wait for our order or even possibly get something other than what we ordered!!! THE HORRORS!!

This week (and from now on!!) take time to really sit with God. Marvel at His beauty and goodness. Psalm 46:10 - Be still and know that I am God. Tell God how great He is. Confess to Him what is in your heart and ask for forgiveness. Thank Him for all the blessing you have been given. Tell him what you need. Matthew 7:7 - Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

It's weird because I have been over loaded with things to do this week. But at the same time, I have spent more time with God than ever before. Somehow, all that homework, laundry, and house cleaning is still getting done! God works in mysterious ways...

Tastes Like Chicken

2004-08-30T23:15:00.000-05:00

God was talking to me today so I thought I would share with whoever is reading this.

On another person's blog, they talk about being salty (read Matthew 5:13, Mark 9:50, and Colossians 4:6). So, everything I am going to say stems from that blog.

1. If a seasoning has no flavor (that's where the salt comes in), it has no value. If Christians make not effort to affect the world around them, they are of little value to God. If we are too much like the world, we are worthless. Christians should not blend in with everyone. Instead, we should affect others positively, just as seasoning brings out the best flavor in food.

2. We should counter act the moral decay in society, just as salt preserves food.

3. Satan tries to take our saltiness. He tempts us with things of this world. But compared to heaven's sweetness and God's power, it tastes like cardboard (from shasa). A quick fix when we are feeling hungry.

Give God the chance to keep you good and salty. Feed from His blood, love, richness, grace, and power. Stay in His presence and word so you won't be hungry enough to eat cardboard!

John 6:56 - Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.

A Call to All

2004-08-27T10:56:00.000-05:00

First of all... note how there is no longer a "comments" link after my posts. That's right, I changed it to say something cool like "what say u?" Okay, I am a dork.

Secondly... I just love the girls in the youth group. They are awesome. It is so great to see them grow in their faith. Anyway, they are going to start a girls bible study aimed at reading the entire bible and keeping each other accountable for reading regularly. I totally need something like this. Latley I have been reading every night (1 Kings, learning all about Solomon!) but I don't always do that.

So, here is my question to all who are reading this: Have you read your bible today? Especially those of you who have time to read people's blogs every morning, make sure you are reading God's blog, too.

I never thought of it that way.... the bible is like God's blog. Wow, I am almost becoming as insightful as Skip. Speaking of Skip, if you haven't read his blog you should. It is full of wonder insight on everyday life. Go ahead, the link is righ tover there -------> (and up a little)

Something Funny

2004-08-20T15:03:00.000-05:00

Well, tonight my husband and I are off to spend quality time with the family.

I have been doing a lot of cleaning today and was going to write something about cleaning out our "spiritual closets" but I ran out of time. Instead, I leave you with this. Now, I haven't heard all of it because my speakers quit working for NO REASON but the first half was entertaining. It reminded me of something Sam and Chelsea would like. Enjoy...

Does it matter what God thinks?

2004-08-19T21:26:00.000-05:00

Okay, well....

Tanner came home today. I just wanted to hold him forever. He looks so much better than he did the day he was born. Praise God!!

Tonight we had to go to a meeting involving our exchange student from Germany who is really Russian (don't ask). I know what most of you are thinking : Scott and I are going to ruin our marriage. Or maybe I just still hear D's voice ringing in my head. She will only be here for three weeks and the Cooper's thought it would be a great opportunity for us. I am excited and scared but what are you gonna do?

Well, I was reading CNN's website and I wanted to share this article with everyone. I am so thankful that I go to a church where there are at least some people who still care what God thinks and wants for our lives. Happy reading.

Downs

2004-08-18T19:32:00.000-05:00

Well, I was having a really good time at singing (it always puts me in a good mood) but then I was in the car driving home. Sandy called. They got some test results from the hospital and Tanner has Downs Syndrome. I was overcome with tears and too many thoughts to record here. What I do know is that Tanner has the best parents in the world and God brought him into the most loving and caring family with a wonderful big brother and sister.

Whoever is reading this, if you could pray for our family. We don't know everything that we will encounter in the future but pray that God would give us courage and strength (especially for Gary and Sandy).

Giving Your Life

2004-08-15T20:41:00.000-05:00

Well, with everything that is going on with Tanner, I decided to come home tonight and sleep in my own bed and eat real food. I'll be back tomorrow morning though.

Here is what God has taught me the last few days. We are called to submit our lives to Him. Give over everything. Well, for the most part, this isn't too hard for me. However, I am the type of person who likes to feel in control. None of us felt "in control" this weekend. How can you? Gary and Sandy definitely didn't feel in control with the helicopter paramedic came in and put their baby in this weird looking box and said "You will be able to see him in three hours in Peoria." Then they took him. You would think they would be able to ride with their five hour old son but noooooo.

So, I think what the Lord has taught me is that I not only have to submit the things in my life that I can change, but also the things I can't. A lot easier said than done. With that said, I have some laundry to do and some sleep to get. Thanks to everyone for your prayers. It was amazing seeing Tanner get stronger and stronger as people were praying for him!!!!

Our Knight in Shining Armor

2004-08-12T16:50:00.000-05:00

I love my sister so much. She always has such a great outlook on life. I wish I could be more like her. Anyway, she told me something a few weeks ago that I just keep thinking about. Probably because I am such a hopeless romantic. So, here tis:

"If you think about it, the whole story of Jesus is a romantic love story. A knight in shining armor comes into our lives and we fall in love with him. He loves us and wants to be with us so much that he is willing to be beaten and nailed to a cross to die. But we know that we will be together again someday. Once you can see how much Jesus loves us and you fall in love with Him, then you will be more likely to fall in love with someone who is like Jesus."

I wish I was that smart when I was 16. So to all you single girls out there: Fall in love with Jesus first. Then, when God puts a wonderful Christian guy in your life, you are more likely to realize it and make good decisions!! Yay for good decisions!

Well, in case it is not obvious my brain isn't functioning properly so I am going to go. Bye.