My Own Personal Flurry of Life

Oh, boy. I feel like I'm stretching out my fingers over this keyboard for a first in a long time. The reality is I got very behind in my personal goals recently. Honestly, the holidays always stress me out, and then you throw finals week and trying to move home and problems with school all within a couple weeks and I come very close to absolutely and totally loosing my mind.

Don't get me wrong, I love family time and I love the food that comes within December, but I don't like the feeling of not being able to slow down. I realize that this is a part of adulthood and that, really, once fully on my own it is a privilege to sleep in or just sit and read a book. But during breaks, I hope to take part in these calming activities.

I haven't made a video in weeks. This newest one covers the span of four (and there are no promises that everything is in the correct order) and explains why the vlogs might go on hold for a bit. TRUTH TIME: I only started these vlogs so I could practice for the Thanksgiving Surprise. I think part of my problem right now is my vlogs seem a bit pointless and redundant. I need to find a new goal to strive for so that I feel proud about my content.

Since I haven't posted in a while, I'm sure many of you have some questions about how the semester wrapped up. So...

• All A's
• The research project didn't kill me...but it came close.
• I will be going to Indiana for student teaching.
• I will be in a 4th grade classroom. 
• No, I don't know if I will be teaching all subjects or specific ones.
• I will be leaving on January 16.
• No, I have no idea where I'm teaching after I graduate.
• Yes, I plan on moving home to Texas.

Okay, I think that just about sums it up!

Also - prayers would be appreciated. There's a lot happening right now (that's really not appropriate for posting) that is causing stress during the holiday break and probably will continue through part of the Spring semester. And, yes, I know - Jeremiah 29:11. It still would be nice to know some of these plans right now.

Alright, my friends, I think that's just about it! Be safe while traveling and watch out for snow!

(For all my non-Texan friends: Yesterday, this happened:       )

Until next time,

Kaity

Turkey Surprise!

So, last week I didn't post a blog entry because I was very much on the brink of spilling all the beans about my wonderful surprise.

I don't think you fully understand - I have been lying to my family since May. These last two weeks or so were the hardest yet!

You see - I figured that I have got to try living a bit. I always watch these videos about other people finding ways to surprise their family and I thought, why can't I do that? Living in Boston means that I have missed out on a lot of happenings in Texas and so, after hearing about how Charles did a similar thing a few years ago, I made my own devious plan.

(Side note: Thank y'all who did, in fact, know my plan and kept your mouth shut about it. :D)

All those research gigs and extra shifts were for survival. Plane tickets, especially around the holidays, aren't cheap. Neither is living in Boston, but I had the motivation to make this dream a reality. Yeah, it is kind of silly - but it was worth the trip. I needed that family boost to help me make it through the next few weeks.

Of course, major thanks goes out to Charles, who was my partner in crime through it all. He's been working with me the whole time to figure out logistics, was my driver, and is just an overall wonderful boyfriend.

The next two and a half weeks are going to zoom by, I already know it. I can't believe my Boston chapter is almost complete! Of course I've got to get through finals week first.

Until next time,

Kaity

Turkey Surprise!

(It's doing the weird thing still where I can't post the physical video - follow the link!)

(Video is captioned, but know that the majority of it is music lyrics. 3:50)

Motivation is Half the Battle

So, this week I got a great reminder that nothing will get done if I refuse to do it. You would think that all people have figured this little tidbit of information out, but it turns out I hadn't just yet. For some strange reason, I had this odd belief in my head that eventually all the work I would have to do would just...go away. Turns out it just piles up.

Then, thanks to a motivational speech from my boyfriend, I restarted myself on Friday and I am happy to report that so far everything is going well. I think that this is the most productive weekend / Monday that I have had in a while. Unfortunatly, to keep that going, I'm going to have to constantly push myself.

Four more weeks. Four more weeks. I have a whole lot to get done and four more weeks.

Luckily for me - I'm stuck in Boston over Thanksgiving so that's ample amount of time to get projects done.

Basically what it's come down to is this. Writing a to-do list is not enough for me. I also have to write out how I'm going to use all my waking hours to my advantage. And then also set alarms in my phone so that I don't get distracted by things. 

Eventually (I pray and hope) I will be able to back down and be able to accomplish tasks without having to micromanage myself. But until then, I am going to do what works.

Have a wonderful week!

Until next time,

Kaity

PS : Follow this link to the video. Blogger is being dumb. 

Just A Few Weeks To Go!

Have you ever had one of those weeks where you just want to give yourself a pat on the back and a large bag of chocolate for getting through it? That was this week in a nutshell.

Here's the thing, I like to stay busy. As we saw earlier this semester, I do not do well with free time on my hands. (Idle hands and all that...) So when things started to pick up, I was excited. But, dear friends, there is a balance...and I have not found it just yet.

I have gotten myself into a situation where I am trying to put my all into everything I do, but we (as humans) cannot physically do that. We must pick and choose what to put our limited energies into. Unfortunately, I am a perfectionist and refuse for that to be the case, which is basically why I'm as stressed as I am.

This evening, I took a break by Skyping with Mom about schooling. (Both of us a bit stressed about getting to the end of the semester.) We came to the realization that the end is near. I have four weeks left (without including Thanksgiving) before I'm done.  I have five weeks left in Boston, Massachusetts. Seven weeks left in 2015.

That feels extremely long and short all at the same time. Has it really been over a year? I feel like I've just arrived and at the same time feel like I've been up here my whole life. It's crazy.

Good news! This Sunday I'm feeling a bit more put together. I have the blog post up, my video done. I'm going to be able to fit a run in and knock out things on my homework list. I just need to keep up this momentum of productivity.

Sometimes you need a harsh week to remind you how to balance.

Until next time,

Kaity

(Captioned : 7:50)

Waiting for My Second Wind

Lately, rereading my blog posts have been a bummer - and I apologize about that. I've been letting the little things build up and get to me. Here's the reality of everything - through the metaphor of running.

When you start off a race, you stand at the starting line, adrenaline pumping, eyes wide and heart full of excitement. You feel like you can take on anything - and you can! At least...for the first few miles. And then your side hurts. It's cool, it's cool. Just push through it; no pain no gain.

But then it's another part of your body. And then you can't breathe. And then you can feel how tired you're becoming and you just want to walk because, dang it, it'll get you to the end....just a whole lot slower than planned.

But, being who I am, I'm stubborn and I'm trying to push through. I know that just beyond this next bend (Christmas Break), there's a finish line waiting for me. However, right now it seems that I haven't gotten my second wind yet to get me around that bend. I'm stuck in pain, trying to convince myself that the end really is worth what I'm going through right now.

It might not be a metal to hang around my neck (actually - it's a very expensive piece of paper), but that's not what running the race is about. Yeah, crossing that finish line will be great - but the important part is each step that got me there, pain induced or not. Because without those steps, I would've have never moved from the start line.

Sorry that this post is so late - the week, of course, has been crazy. Last year of grad school is not the same as the last year of undergrad, apparently.

Also, if you're wondering - finally got around to sitting down and analyzing everything from my survey. Data does support my hypothesis!! YAY! Hopefully, near the end of the semester, I can show y'all exactly what I have been working on.

Until next time,

Kaity


P.S. I can't promise a video from last week right now. Honestly, right now I can't promise consistent videos at all - and that sucks. (I'm pretty sure more for me than you. I have fun making them.) But, sometimes, when life gets tough, you have to prioritize, and (because YouTube isn't paying me to make videos) weekly vlogs are at the bottom of the list. Hopefully I can get this one up at some point.

Inconsistent Consistency

Boy, howdy, I've been anything but consistent lately, haven't I?

This week has been a world wind of crazy. I felt that no matter how hard I tried to get ahead, I was always two steps behind the play Part of that was the fact that I was plum lazy and the other part of that was because my body was so confused from switching my work schedule from morning to night and all over the place that I just found my self exhausted when I wasn't sleeping.

However, that is in the past. It is time to move forward and start a new week. The wonderful things about weeks is that every seven days you have a chance for a better week. And every 24 hours you have a chance of making sure that your week goes right.

I am quickly realizing that 24 hours is not near enough time for me to do what I need exactly. In fact, it's at least six hours short of what I need. (Yes, I do mean to use those six extra hours for sleeping). I'm sure there was a point in my past where I realized this also - but it just seems to be a constant theme throughout the first semester of year two.

Wow, there were a whole lot of numbers in that last paragraph.

If you are thinking, wow, this blog post seems kind of rushed this week, you would be right. It is. I'm trying to stay on top of my game and knock out everything I write on my daily to-do lists. (Oh yeah, I got organizing down to an art - I'm just not always great with the actual doing of the things.) Monday's list is quite long because, well, I did not properly manage my time this weekend...or last week.

Oh, well. This week clearly will be better than the last. I mean, heck, it ends with Halloween!

Until next time,

Kaity

Out of the Fog

I'm back!

How much did you miss these posts? Bet you enjoyed them more than the amount of times I've been spamming the interwebs requesting people take my research survey. Speaking of - thank all of you for taking the time to complete it! I got double the amount of people I was hoping for! (Y'all can still take it, if you like. It's open through tomorrow night.)

There. That's it, the last you'll hear of me asking about the survey, I promise.

I've been a bit off my game the last two weeks. I don't fully know how to describe it - but it was kind of like walking through a thick fog. It took me a little while to refind my purpose (which was buried under some rocks in the corner of my mind) and really realize why I'm doing the things I'm doing.

This semester so far has just been really...odd. Being a part time student, one would think that I would all of a sudden have time on my hands, be able to become more involved in things. Turns out that's not how grad school works at all. Apparently, less classes means we should be able to handle more work - because clearly we don't all have jobs to pay for school or anything. Anywho - I complain but really I just need to find a balance.

In happier news, I finally went apple picking! I had a ton of fun with the Bayridge crew as we explored an uphill orchard (you read that right) and picked lots different types. I can't tell you what I actually got because to me, all of them are red. This video should be up soon - so keep an eye out!

Wow, this post is a whole lot of gobbledygook. Forgive me, I'm out of practice.

Until next time,

Kaity

(Getting Back To It)

 (6:45 and captioned) 

(Apple Picking)

(6:00)

Real Talk

Alright, real talk.

I don’t have a video for last week. I mean, I filmed stuff...but I haven’t edited it.  I haven’t done a lot of things that I wanted to do. It took me up to last night to finish a lot of stuff that should’ve easily been done last week.

It’s no big surprise that I have seem to have lost my mojo. I’m sure that it’s easy to tell from the short videos and the very...odd...blog posts that seem to ramble into the abyss.

Honestly, I’m struggling. I’m trying to find a point - something that makes waking up and going to work and continuing school worth it, because right now, knowing that an expensive piece of paper is heading my way isn’t working.

I need to feel like I’m doing something that not only betters myself but gives back to the community. I’ve been trying really hard to get more involved with things and work on aspects of my life that need to be improved...yet it seems all so trivial.

On the other side of this, if I don’t force myself to do these things and sort of trick myself into being busy, I would never leave my bed. I would curl up under the blankets all day and either sleep, watch netflix, read, eat - or a combination of those things.

In all honestly, I think I’m struggling with patience. I’m struggling with the idea of having to constantly do mundane tasks to improve skills and get to where I want to go. I want to have a book written by the time I’m 25. I want to be able to send people home made sketches of characters I have created. I want to work on my filming and get really good at it and create short films in the future. I want to teach kids and find ways to help improve educational programs that have us go back to focusing on students instead of tests.

I want to do a lot of things - but sometimes knowing that I'm not even close to the finish line, knowing that I’m only a few feet from the start, is more motivation to give up than to continue.

I am tired of all the half-finished projects that lay in the wake of my 23 years on earth.

So, it’s Wednesday. It’s halfway through a week that started off fairly bumpy - but I’m working on trying to turn that around. It’s got to start with an attitude adjustment, I think. There’s too much awesome in Wonderland for me to give up now.

Prayers, good vibes, and positivity would all be appreciated.

Until next time,

Kaity

A Personal Realization of Research

I would argue that this last week I functioned at about 75% (clearly - look how late this is posted) and was extremely uneventful - except for Pixar night. Which takes up the majority of the video...if you're wondering.

Actually, this week was great for coming to some conclusions about things.Specifically research.

For the first time, really ever, I'm creating my own research. Not a proposal that could happen in the future or finding a million and a half articles online and totally taking one or two quotes from an article to prove my point about something, a real live thesis-type thing. (Except it's not a thesis, it's considered a major paper so that we don't have to do a thesis and we're basically expanding off of someone else's research, so it's not just ours. In all honesty, it's a bit baffling. ) A mini-thesis, if you will.

I truly am excited to dive into the actual data collecting part of it all. The results might actually help in arguments when it comes to things involving state tests. As I am doing all the research, or really digging as deep as I can for any research on this topic,

 

I came to the realization that this isn't a simple semester project. What I'm looking into is scratching the surface of an iceberg of problems, and many times it feels like I'm starting an impossible task that I will never see the end of. (I'm sure I'm not alone in my responce.)

Having that overwhelming feeling for me is really intimidating and discouraging. I realize that this sounds a lot like procrastination, but it's a true reaction. It seems like by the end of the semester I'll be submitting something that says, "I have answered one question and created about twenty more."

But I guess that's research for you. Maybe research life isn't for me.

I came to another conclusion this week, but I didn't write it down and, therefore, have no clue what it was. Clearly nothing dire.

Until next week,

Kaity

(Captioned    Length:  6:10)

The Monobuttockular Week.

After last week you would think that I would have this amazing post that talks about everything I have accomplished and how I'm a solid seven spaces from Go. The honest truth is I'm only about three and a half.

That's right - I gave a huge speech about choices and moving forward and knocking out goals and totally did not follow through. I know that I disappointed myself and probably the few of y'all out there rooting for me to actually be productive with my time.

Ah, well...there's always next week.

Do I have an excuse? Nope.

To be fair, I did take some good steps forward. I'm getting better on my eating habits, I actually worked out three times this week. (Knee does limit the amount of cardio activity), I knocked out a good majority of my goals.....but, I also know that I can always do better.

Yup. That's about it for this week.

Until next time,

Kaity

Lovely screen shot, ain't it?

( Captioned ; 6:24 )

It Comes Down to a Choice

So, as all of my readers saw, last week was a very rough one and it very much bled into this week as well. But, as the end drew near, I felt like I could breathe again. Having that one day off to not worry, to go and explore the Lawn on the D, and enjoy time with many people at the House did more for me than I can explain.

Sunday is always a weird day. Many see it as the end of one week and simultaneously the start of a new one. New things are always good, because they give us another chance.

Last week, I gave myself excuse after excuse of why things were not completed, why I didn't feel motivated to knock out my lists....I did myself more harm than good. It's very easy to slip into the mindset that it'll just get done tomorrow. That whole procrastination thing again...

This week will be different - I will get myself back on track in mind, body, spirit, and school. I fully believe that is the reason God gives us so many "new" things. New days, weeks, months, years... He understands that we need that reset sometimes. I definitely needed it this week.

Really it just comes down to one question - how much do I want to be successful? Answer: A lot. Then, it becomes a choice. Am I going to stay in and watch Netflix all day or get dressed and go to the gym? Do I really need to buy things for Mac and Cheese at Star or will I go home and eat the veggie meals that I have in the freezer? Do I really need to be on the internet again or is there something else that I could be doing?

Even though these decisions don't always seem like they're a big deal, they will end up impacting life later on. I have to remember that - that getting to my goal of (there's a lot, so use your imagination) I have to start today. I have to eat right today, I have to accomplish the to-do list today, I have to walk the whole way to the gym today, ...

It goes on and on. Will it be easy? Not in a million years. We all know that I have made an art out of procrastination. So, starting today, I am going to try and break that habit. Yes I know there will be road blocks and pot holes, but the important thing is about coming out on the other side of it all.

Until next time, readers,

Kaity

(Captioned, 5:39)

The Importance of Mental Health

Currently, I'm channeling Squidward Tenticles.

Let me start with a bit of Kaity philosophy. I fully believe, no matter who you are, you have to take a mental health day at least once a week. Sometimes you might be lucky, and you naturally have one with how your job is scheduled. Sometimes, you don't. Now, some people can go a lot longer than others without feeling the need to take a day for themselves every week. (I'm 98% sure that these people would claim to be extroverts.) The other group of us may need more than one day. It's all who you are.

The thing is, it is up to you to make sure that you give yourself what you need, especially if work can become an every day occurrence.  To do your job well, you must mentally be at 100%. (Please note that there are things you can do every day to make sure you're there as well. Like sleeping and eating.)

But sometimes you need more. You need a full day away from whatever the stressful thing is. You have to be a responsible adult and learn to say 'no' every once and a while. Otherwise, you'll burn yourself out.

(And here the reader realizes that this is exactly what Kaity has done to herself last week and this week.)

Yeah - I saw the big picture. The glorious fat paycheck heading my way with all these extra shifts. The problem is, by taking away my mental days (because I thought that I could handle it) I'm not functioning at 110 % every time I go into work. Oh I do everything asked of me, but I'm sure I could be doing better. I think I'm currently at an 85% level or so.

Really, this post is just an explanation of all the subway shots in the video this week. Work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work.

Saturday, I'll have a chance to recoup. I'll get back on top of things and be able to give next week my all.


Until next time,

Kaity

P.S. I don't even have an excuse as to why these things don't appear on Sunday's like I originally planned. These are popping up late because of who I am as I person. I have just embraced it.

(Captioned : 5:49)

Ready to Go

Alright, the blog might be a day late, but my video was technically uploaded last night. I see that as a win.

Hello, readers. I am doing better. Thank you for the prayers and the good vibes being sent my way. While I think that feeling of homesickness will always sit low in my chest, I am handling it much better. Surprisingly to you and me - I even felt good enough to go out and explore a little. On Thursday. The only day that I did something that was not work.

I am thankful that my three week summer is coming to a close. I enjoyed my real vacation to Texas, but the last two weeks have been a bit dull. I believe that part of it really was because all I have been doing is working at the store. (Please understand I'm not complaining about the hours because I'm broke and I'm thankful for what I can get. :) ) I haven't really done much else because, as I state in my video, I come home and just chill.

That's my goal for this week. Try and force myself to do something after work, not just sit in my room. Class starting this week will help with that. Mind you, it's only one class, but I'm excited to see my cohort again and get started on this final stretch.

I can't believe that tomorrow will mark a year of me living up here in Beantown! It has been a rocking adventure up to this point and I can't wait to see how it ends. Then, on Wednesday, marks my last first day as a student! I can't even put into words the joy of really starting my last year of school. (Does this mark my third senior year? Is the second year of grad school even considered a senior year? Who cares - I'm almost finished!)

The second wind has finally reached my lungs - but I must remember to pace myself. There are still things that need to be completed before I walk the stage in May.

I hope your week is going well. I hope that all my first year (and current teacher) friends were able to rock their first week and are ready to begin anew.

Until next time,

Kaity

(video captioned: 3:46 minutes)

A Case of Homesickness

I'm going to be totally honest with y'all. This has been an extremely rough week.  I think that one of the worst things I did to myself was go home.

Here's why.

I am incredibly homesick. When everyone you know and love is in the southern part of the States (the majority living in Texas), the world feels especially large and lonely. And sometimes Skype doesn't cut it.

I'm really bad at making friends. I can truthfully tell you that I don't even know how I became friends with the people that I am with now. All I know is that there's a 98% chance that they were the ones who probably initiated it. I'm more of the keep-your-head-down-and-do-your-job type.

People terrify me. I live in constant fear that as soon as I try to befriend something, they're judging me or belittling me while I'm not there. (You can blame middle school and high school for that fear.) It's much easier for me to talk through text of some sort. It allows me to edit myself, to make sure I sound happy and say the right things. But in front of people, I choke. This, my friends, is also known as Social Anxiety.

I tried really hard to hide all my fears and sadness by staying as busy as possible through the week, but you can't really do that from feelings. They still find you and force you to face them. It isn't pleasant, but it's something that will happen eventually.

The video this week was just the icing on top of the cake. New computer (now bequeathed with the name of Scarecrow [see a theme coming?] ) doesn't have free editing software, so I've been trying to find a nice, free editor I can use for the future. I thought I found one, but I'm not willing to pay $20 to remove a watermark nor am I willing to spend more hours editing the video again. So, for this week, I'm sorry. I'll find a new system next week.

I'm also sorry to be playing the Doom and Gloom card. I know that there are other things happening in this world, but for me - it's not all sunshine and rainbows right now. And I, personally, would feel badly for lying to you and giving you the assumption that this chapter of life has been nothing but smelling roses the whole time.

Please understand I'm not posting this for advice or pity, I just wanted to be upfront about everything.

Hopefully this week will have more fun things in store.

Until next time,

Kaity

(film is captioned and 8:35)

A Quick Trip Down South

Kaity, you said you'd post on Sudays. It's Tuesday. What even?

Well, life has been busy. Up until yesterday, my family has really gone nonstop this week. More than anything, we've been in a car. This means that I haven't been able to really edit or do much other than read and/or sleep.

But what about your laptop? Why not work on the road?

Munchkin is in the process of being replaced. He also doesn't work well enough for me to edit a project as big as I'm doing now.

But all that is the past - everything is posted now!

I really have enjoyed a week being home. Mind y'all, it's been a bit busy with all the traveling and such, but it has been quite pleasant. Honestly, I think coming home has made the thought of going back to Boston for four more months tough. I miss Texas. I miss being close to family and friends, how amazingly cheap everything is, the weather, my car (surprisingly enough), and real donut shops.

Please understand, I love Boston, too! I just don't see myself living there the rest of my life.

The trip to North Padre was almost like a blast to the past - they haven't changed a bit. It was fun being able to walk around with the family and remember all these things we did on previous vacations. (We know what we like and, if we like it, we tend to frequent those areas.) We did enjoy a new adventure this time around: paddle boarding.

Remember as a kid, standing up in the toy wagon you owned and using a giant stick to move yourself around the yard, pretending you were a giant boat? Basically, it's that, but on the ocean. It's was an entertaining experience - and quite the workout!

I would just like to mention why I included the Whataburger in the video. For those who don't know, Whataburger was started up in Corpus Christi. The one that we visited what the "first" Whataburger in that area. (It actually started as a shack.) It is tradition to go and eat there if we are in the area. (Random fact: it's also two stories.)

Immediately following the trip began the Great Migration of the Sheppards. With school starting soon, we are all heading off to different areas of the states to start up the fall semester. I, myself, am now willing to make the journey back, since I've eaten the three of the four basic Texan food groups (BBQ, TexMex, Whataburger, and BlueBell Ice Cream).

I'm going to miss home - but I'll be back in 16 weeks!

Until next week,

Kaity

(Video is 9:35 minutes and captioned)

Let me know if you liked the video or not - I'm totally up for some criticism. 

Summer is Here!

YAY! Summer is officially here!

While I recognize for some that summer has been here for quite a few months, my three week version began on Thursday, when I submitted my last paper. Sending in my project also had another significant meaning for me - the closing of my first year of grad school.

It's a pretty awesome feeling knowing that I'm finally so close to the end - and it's also a bit terrifying. For the first time in a good long while, I don't know where I will be in a year (correction - I will be working for a school that has agreed to pay me for teaching).  As a planner - I don't like this at all. However, it is a bit liberating knowing that the world is full of possibilities come May.

That being said, I am not going to let myself worry about anything (except how many books I can inhale) for the next three weeks. I will be taking time to enjoy Boston, my family, and my friends. I don't say this often - but I deserve the break. We (my cohort) have earned this break.

Two random other things that are happening to me that you may or may not care about:

1) I have decided to restart my YouTube channel. I talk about the reasons in the video, but if you would prefer not to watch, I really just wanted another way to show you my week. I realized that writing about my goings on limited y'all to a particular view of Boston based on what I could remember. So I want to change it up. They will coincide with the blog posts, but maybe not follow them to the tee. I hope that you do enjoy them!

*I am also working on making sure all my videos are captioned.

2) Munchkin (my Monster Toshiba Laptop) has decided that it's time. After six years of service, it is struggling like no other. There has been a scheduled emergency hard ware surgery by the great Dr. Dad coming this week. Crossed fingers, if you don't mind. I need my baby to last me at least another year.

Y'all have an amazing week!

Until next time,

Kaity

(Attractive Pic - don't I know it!)

The Art of Procrastination

Let's be totally honest, at some point in your life, you have been a procrastinator. Now, some of you that are reading this have also managed to have the strength and will power to defeat this lethargic beast and knocking out goal after goal every day. Some of you, like me, have managed to master this time gobbler into an art form.

Exhibit A: This blog post. 

Many of you, or at least those that I tend to keep in (at least) weekly contact with know that I am beginning my last week of summer II. I also have a research proposal due by next Monday (but in all honesty, by my last class). I could be working on that monstrosity right now, or... I could be writing my blog post for this week.

Exhibit B: The To-Do List.

Anyone, and I do mean anyone, who knows me knows that my brain runs at about a mile a minute and half the time it'll change course in about 3.5 seconds flat. I really do depend on to-do lists to keep my focused on the current tasks at hand. But, I also add things mundane things I have to do anyway (such as work or class or laundry) just so that I can cross things off and feel accomplished. Then, when I start to "feel tired" or "want a break", clearly I can justify it because things have, in fact, been crossed off the to-do list.

Exhibit C: High Grades

Another sign that I have absolutely mastered this unnecessary skill is that my grades have not suffered. My entire transcript is As (except for one B, but I still believe that's not my fault) and therefore, I feel justified by the amount of time that I spend on things. In other words, it hasn't kicked me in the butt yet, so why fix something that isn't broken?

Exhibit D: Errands.

Guys, this one is the worst because it falls into two categories. First off, errands do make it onto my to-do list. In all honesty, half the time I really do need to mark it down or I will never make it to the (insert any company name here) before the store front actually closes. However, errands take up a lot of time - sometimes a few hours. Then, after a long day out and walking around, who wants to do that petty project anyway?

Exhibit E: Interacting with Other Humans.

I feel that some of you are reading this paragraph and snickering at me because you know the truth - I am an introverted hermit. Other than a run, I don't leave my room. So, when I do interact with humans (let's be honest, it's mainly Charles) I feel the need to give them my full attention. That project can wait, because I'm in the mood to socialize. It's a rare feeling that I feel compelled to take part in a group activity (and we are talking about things other than dates) and I fear that if I stifle that feeling, I truly will become a hermit at the ripe age of 23.

All this is to say, I clearly need help. Procrastination, whether it is a few hours long or has become an art form, is a dangerous attitude to possess. I'm pretty sure that it also doesn't look good on resumes. 

Prayers of accomplishment would be awesome.

Until next time,

Kaity 

A Letter to My High School Self

Dear High School Kaity,

I know that life is pretty tough. You got a lot going on and there's a lot of dark days. Just know that even when the skies above are overcast, the sun is still shining somewhere.

I've compiled a list of ten things that I think you might want to know. Now, I fully believe we wouldn't be me today without the bumps and missed turns taken in the past, but there are a few things that you should probably know to make the journey easier.

1. Love yourself. Every inch. Inside and Out.

2. Life gets better. Those people don't matter and, in all honesty, won't remember how they made you feel. Remove them from Facebook and get on with your life. 

3. You are allowed to say no. If people don't accept this response when you say it, let 'em go. You should only have to say it once. 

4. Take life's opportunities as they come. They are there to help mold you into a better person.

5. Learn how to save money. If you knew where I was - you would be kicking yourself. Put back anywhere from $25 - 50 per month. Or more, yo. Trust me - it'll be worth it.

6. People will break your heart; it is one of the most brutal parts of life. Do not waste time trying to win them back because they aren't worth it. They have made a decision and, however painful it is, you must let them go. Have a day to grieve. Eat as much chocolate as you want, watch sappy movies, scream, cuss, go for a walk. Then, the next day, pull yourself together, call a friend, and get out of the house. It's painful but extremely necessary.

7. Don't compare your life to others. As a great future friend of yours said to me, we all walk different paths of life and there's no problem with that. What you are doing is necessary for your own happiness. Who cares if it is not the same as someone else?

8. There is a difference between being content and being happy. Don't allow yourself to settle.

9. You are loved. 

10. Don't quit because you're not great at something instantly. Every quote you ever see about accomplishing things talks about time. When your motivation dies, that's the time to really push yourself. Practice whatever you're doing once a day until you get to where you want.

Remember, rough patches are nothing more than sandpaper that helps smooth us into better human beings. You can do this. You will make it through.

See you soon,

Kaity

Group Projects and Other Things

Group projects are supposed to teach you many things; how to collaborate, how to share ideas, how to distribute workload, responsibility, and help you bond with people you may or may not know.

The only thing that I typically take away from them is trust no one.

In all honesty, the few times that I have had large group projects they have been with my cohort and went fairly well. The benefit of going through basically every class together teaches you how to do all the things listed above, but in a less stressed out scenario. Basically, that means that if we could collaborate as a class, we would do it. It's like getting to pick your own group. You know everyone well enough to know what to expect.

However, grouping up with a lot of people you don't know brings back old high school memories of "if I don't do it, then no one will". For Pete's sake, we are in grad school! You would think that some of these middle school mentalities would have finally worked their way out of people's system. Turns out that they don't - and it can lead to a lot of chaos. (Like four people trying to yell over each other at the meeting while you are trying to take minutes of what's happening. It's very aggravating and stirs up anger from no where. Typically, in my case,  it leads to the Scrooge musical playing over and over in your head.)

It is ridiculous to me how full grown adults can quickly relapse into preteen drama.

In other news, for people who think I don't do anything other than school and work - you're mainly right. But...

(July 4, 2015 - Charles River)

(July 7, 2015 - Fenway Stadium Red Sox v Mariners )

And today I'm headed to the beach for a well earned break.

Until next time,

Kaity

See You Later, Ms. Mildred

Today, a wonderful woman finally went home to be with the Lord.

Ms. Mildred was like another grandmother to me. She is one of the main factors that I am even up in Boston studying Deaf Education. Because of her, and the group known as the Card Sharks, I was taught ASL, how to play a mean round of Golf, Skipbo, and a few other games,  what it meant to be happy with where you were in life, and how to have fun no matter your age. These ladies have watched over me since I was little and I considered them family.

At 103, Ms. Mildred was still sharp as a tack, a queen at Wii Bowling, and constantly complaining about how the Rangers needed to improve. (If someone would've driven her there, she would've whipped those players into shape.) Her age never stopped her from wanting to learn all that she could. And,  although her eyesight was fading, she was always down for Facetime. It typically was a very entertaining affair as I would see a closeup of her eye because I was too small on the screen.

Ms. Mildred is exactly who I want to be when I grow up. A strong, godly woman who could still kick butt at card games or a round of baseball - even in a wheelchair. She will be dearly missed.

See you soon, Ms. Mildred.

How to Succeed At Being Broke

As promised - here is how I've managed to scrape by the last week. Mind you, there's another week to go, but I'm really not too concerned because of some of the things I did last week.

First, I made a list of all the necessary evils that were occurring over the next two weeks. Then, I looked over the list again to see how many of them were actually necessary. You would be surprised how much might not hit that category.

Food, travel, textbook, and laundry. That's what I decided were necessary. But even then - money was tight. So after finding as many deals and coupons as I could, I bought food and train tickets and after a few hours of scouring the internet - I found a free pdf of the previous edition of my text book. Win!

(On the left we see Lunch / Dinners for under $7. On the right we see the fruit bought to balance the nutrition, a total of $8. This is why college kids are not healthy.)

So I did a bit of research of how people can make money online. (PS - Best way to google this is with "Stay at home Moms". You get much better results.) Also, I looked into the quick jobs board here at the school. (Also something I recommend doing.) While a lot of the online things take time and weeks to build up to be worth something, being a healthy, English speaking college student pays off pretty quick! (And I thought I had no skills! :P)

Basically, that's what this week is composed of. Doing random tasks which includes anything from donating blood (being broke makes you rethink your fears) to doing language type tasks - all the while getting compensated for my time. It's pretty awesome.

And that, dear friends, is how I'm currently making it. It's not bad - it's a stage of life I'm sure everyone goes through at least once.

Also - Happy Birthday to me!! Thank y'all for all the wonderful birthday wishes and support over this past year. It has meant the world to me!

Until next time,

Kaity

(Fourth of July Pics)

The Halfway Point - Full Steam Ahead!

I don't think anyone is waving good-bye at the month of June faster than me. (Well, maybe my cohorts.)

June (especially the end) was just a rough month. Between balancing two classes and the increased hours at work (which I am very thankful for because, unfortunately, this world functions on money) I was really starting to lose my sanity.

But hey! We made it to the end!

I was able to take a whole weekend off before jumping right back into classes. Luckily, it's only one. And while the syllabus is a bit intimidating, the professor is quite awesome. It is, however, very odd to be in a hearing classroom again. (This is my first one in over a year.) I have recently learned that I have a few pet peeves.

- People talking in class.
- People trying to talk over the professor.
- The sounds hearing people make when they agree with something.

Basically, I never realized how noisy we all are. So. Very. Noisy.

Lesson of the Day:  Always have someone double check your work - even if it is a private manner. Especially if it is something important - like your finances.

Now, no one panic, I am doing just fine. I just over predicted my paycheck and landed myself as close as you can get to broke. Let me tell you - the next two weeks will be an adventure of how I am able to stretch a dollar bill. (I'll give you a hint; ramen, ramen, ramen. And - when I want to spoil myself, a can of Spaghettio's.)

Tune in next week to find out exactly what I managed to pull off.

Until next time,

Kaity

BRB Dying

When you feel The Sick coming on at the beginning of the week but there's too much to do because finals and work...

then your body starts to betray you but you figure a quick nap (every two hours or so) will help...

and then the people around you start to notice, but you are still in denial...

and then one day in the time span of two hours It hits you like a freight train...

That about sums up my week. Prayers would be appreciated.

Until next time,

Kaity

Short, Sweet, and To the Point

 My week is very busy. In fact, once I get through this week I'll be back on easy street. Just have to knock out four projects...no biggie.

 

Also - Congrats to Todd and Jennifer on the wedding this Sunday! (Thank you also to Zach by letting me "join" via Skype.)

Until next time,

Kaity

The Month of June

I'll be honest.

I've really been procrastinating on this post. Why?

Well, a couple weeks ago I talked about how I was going to force myself to go out into the world and explore this historic city I've lived in and how I've bought skateboard and yadda yadda yadda.

Reality is that this whole new thing might not start up for a couple of weeks. My dear friends, I promise it's not me being lazy. June is just hell. Having classes 5/7 days of the week and work being more or less equal, I come home and find myself charging at the stack of articles that must be read before class or the projects all due in the same week or I pass out on my bed.

I'm really not trying to complain. I enjoy my hectic life. I like staying busy and moving. Really, it comes down to priorities and in June, that would be school. Here in a couple weeks when I have absolutely no excuses, you will be seeing pictures and, hopefully, be learning something new about Boston each week - just like me!

As everyone knows, I am a planner. There are a confirmed 26 weekends that I will be in Boston and I have a list of things to do that matches it. I want to get as much out of the city as I can while I'm here - but I also want straight As.

It will all work out. It always does. :)

Prayers for me, my cohorts, and the first years would be appreciated because during the month of June...

Yup. That just happened.

You know you sang it.

Until next time,

Kaity

P.S. I did go interact with humans (yes, more than one) this weekend! That counts for something, right?

A Brief Glimpse Of My Thought Process

There are times when writing a blog post is hard.

(This seems obvious with how the posts have been popping up sporadically instead of every Saturday like I planned at the beginning of the year.)

I would argue that's because my life is pretty bland - balancing life, school, and romance.  One of those things I prefer not to share too much about out of respect for him and not to gross out half of my readers. You're welcome. :P

As stated before, I am trying to make sure that I incorporate one thing each week that is exciting and new, and last week that was buying a skateboard. Honestly, the skills haven't kicked in just yet. And I have to get over this fear of people on the sidewalks. For whatever reason, not too many people are fond of skateboarders. Also, I'm still terrified of hitting people or them judging me on how poorly I ride. Mind you, that won't get any better if I don't ride to places.

I might force myself to do so tomorrow. If it's not raining and cold.

Anywho...

Back to the original statement - I don't know what to really talk about without sounding repetitive. I want to be honest with all of you, but I also know that there is a balance. This is not exactly a personal journal. That sits in my room and shows what a catastrophic train wreck my thought process is.

This post is going no where fast.

Currently, I'm a bit homesick. I see all these people enjoying their summer breaks and hanging out with friends and going back to camp and I'm still in a transitional period in my life. (A very important one, mind you - it allows me to work.) While I am not missing tornado season or Texas pretending to be the Gulf of Mexico (I love y'all, please be safe!!),  I miss the small group of humans that allow for my craziness.

I still don't feel settled here in Boston. To be honest, I don't know if I ever will. It takes me a while to become comfortable with people - and I mean a while. Probably by the time I start making connections I'll be shipping off to wherever I student teach. (Yes, there is a major possibility it will not be in Boston. More to come on that when I know more myself.)

I am thankful to be here. There is so much that I would not know and phenomenal people I would have never had the opportunity to meet and truly get to know without being away this past year. But it's not Aledo and it's not Denton. Two years is a lot shorter than I realized.

Wow - this post is crazy. And sad. Look at the puppies.

Until next time,

Kaity

Basically Blah

So...I have come to realize as of late that I don't have much to talk about on my blog. Y'all hear about the same type of situation over and over because I don't change my routine very much. I tend to get stuck in my comfort zone and forget that there's a whole world out there to play in.

That being said I am going to try and challenge myself to do something different / new every week. This being a new thing also means that I don't really have much to report from last week. School started up and is running full speed ahead and work is, well, work.

Charles is doing well.

I finished up my training app and transferred to Zombies, Run! (Super wonderful story app that incorporates your run into the story. Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuy iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit!)

There is real heat in Boston now, however they have not figured out the concept of AC. I can deal with heat, y'all - but I need me a good AC.

Also, I'm looking at buying a skateboard. And learn how to ride it maybe at some point between homework and projects. Because I can.

Until next time,

Kaity

One Week Vacation

And my summer vacation is just about up!

There's nothing wrong with it - I actually enjoy it being a bit short. I never have been able to sit well and, well, the whole idle hands...

Anywho, my vacation basically included me doing nothing. I went out a saw a couple movies and such, but I had made more plans to explore more for the weekend. I was all excited about exploring and going to the Museum of Science with Charles....until Friday afternoon my wallet was stolen. Right out of my back pocket.

Luckily, it is nothing that can't be replaced fairly quickly. I had recently made a pretty nifty duct tape wallet (the part I think I'm honestly most upset about) and put the minimum things I needed into that wallet because I was tired of carrying around my large one with everything in it. Guess it's a good thing I did.

Also, I noticed it was gone in about ten minutes so I was able to get everything shut down and taken care of. The hardest part will be replacing some of the IDs. And the most they were able to take from me was my transport pass. So I hope that they needed the monthly pass more than I did.

So, yeah. That sortof slammed all my plans to a halt. It sucks, but sometimes life does that. Time to just pick myself up and keep moving.

Basically friends, just be careful when traveling. Keep your wallet in your front pocket or in your bag. Be wary of anyone who just bumps into you.

Until next time,

Kaity

I Am an Addict

I am an addict.

I am not proud of it - I've been struggling with this particular problem since middle school. No, it's not something like drinking or drugs, but addiction shows up in many formats. For me, it comes in the form of picking my face.

It's highly embarrassing, and I usually become very defensive when people point out this flaw. (It happens a lot more than you may think.) Recently, I realized that it's not their fault (although, still not the nicest thing to say to someone) it's completely mine. If I want all the talk to stop, I have to do something about it myself.

The first thing that I must do, like all other addicts, is admit that I have a problem. I see a flaw, I scratch. I'm anxious, I scratch. I'm bored, I scratch. I've even mastered scratching while I'm sitting still. I have a significant problem.

I'm putting this out there to force myself into a bit of peer pressure. I am releasing that I have a problem to the internet in hopes, not of pity or advice, but as a way to remind myself that people are watching.

This should have been the easiest resolution to fix, but it's been five months (of denial) and obviously I have gotten no where. Let's be honest - it's not like just stopping is an option. That's really not how getting rid of an addiction / bad habit works.

Really all I'm asking for is good thoughts and crossed fingers for me to succeed. The goal is by my birthday. That's two solid months and change of accomplishing this task. I really do want to beat this. I want the confidence that comes with it.

Thank you in advanced.

Until next time,

Kaity

A Weekend of Celebration

I literally feel like half a ton of bricks has been taken off my shoulders - at least for a week.

Boston is warm with sunshine, the streets are filled with black gowns and colorful caps, and, for the first time in a long while, I just have to worry about work. I can come home and change into comfy sweats and just read. Or binge on Netflix. Or go for a run. Or write a book. Or...really anything!

I love that the possibilities are endless - as long as I make it to work on time when scheduled. I also enjoy the fact that it isn't too long. (Idle hands and all that jazz.) I think it is safe to say that it will be an awesome week.

Also - I want to send a massive congrats to all of my friends that are walking away this weekend in a cap and gown and a degree in some area that will be greatly benefited now that you are a part of it. I wish you the best on your next endeavors and cannot wait to see the amazing things that you accomplish! Know that there are people everywhere that our proud of you and are sending you good thoughts.

For the rest of you just like me, in a limbo between semesters - we can do this! We will be walking that stage soon enough! Remember that good things never come easy; diamonds require a lot of pressure and time to shine.

Until next time,

Kaity

Finals Week is Upon Us

I think that I have fairly successfully made it through the three hardest weeks of my young life. Of course, they would all be right in a row and end with an extremely long overnight at work. (ie. I woke up a few hours ago.) But the idea of only having two projects to complete seems so simple compared to the last few weeks. (Now to not let myself become to complacent.)

Boston is finally warm! We are now in (what I at least consider) spring weather. Mind you, it's hot for most Bostonians and it means that we only enjoyed a few weeks of the beautiful Magnolia flowers before all of their petals ended up on the ground. Unfortunate - but it was quite enjoyable while it lasted.

I cannot tell you how nice it will be to post here next weekend and announce that I have knocked out my first year of grad school. Unfortunately, I do have a week left and I do need to get back to my projects that lay before me.

Thank y'all for all of the wonderful support I have received to get me this far. Thank you to everyone who has been reading these posts and inspiring me to keep writing. Good luck to all who are knocking out finals this week. We shall raise glasses at the end, my friends.

Until next time,

Kaity

Let's Pretend April Didn't Happen

I think that I can go ahead and write April off as a failure of a month.

I am a big dreamer. I set goals for myself to make sure that I don't get lazy and that I achieve everything I hope to do. However, sometimes life has a vastly different plan than I would like.

For example, the entire month of April.

Between work and school this month, I very seldom have had a chance to sit down and take time for myself. When I'm not at one place I'm at the other and if I'm not at either, I am locked up in my room working on homework. God bless my boyfriend for putting up with my crazy this month.

All of this really should be expected, being that we are two weeks out from wrapping up the Spring semester. (And my first year of grad school!!!) But, even so, it doesn't make anything any easier. For example, the fact that I have / had seven projects due over the course of three weeks.

Which, let's be honest, turns me into a bit of a monster. Surprisingly enough, stress usually doesn't freak me out. In fact, I like a little bit in my life. It keeps me on my toes and on my game. However, this is like treading out in the deepest part of the ocean with bricks on my feet. Doable - but quite a struggle. I am trying my best to keep up - but it's not always pretty...

And then cue the lack of sleep...

 ...which causes a bit of craving in the sugar department...

 ...and then, you know...

But I have two weeks left. I have two weeks until I can take a day for myself and breathe for a while. Maybe take an actual trip somewhere! Right now, though, goal one is to successfully close out the semester.

Good luck to everyone else on your finals! We can do this!

Until next time,

Kaity

The Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon is tomorrow!!

Let's be honest, people. This race is the Superbowl / Tour de France / World Cup of the running world. Unfortunately (though to be truly honest I never even tried) I will be nothing more than a spectator for this event. Although I'm sure that in itself will be an experience!

Living in Boston Proper this past weekend has, in fact, been insanity. People are everywhere - more so than normal. Humans from all walks of life have come, not only to participate, but to watch the race happen. However, because of the past, the restrictions to be there are quite harsh and totally understandable. Basically, if it can't fit in a pocket, you can't bring it.

So, because I know many of you might be curious, I have decided to dedicate a post to this wondrous race.  Here are some things that you might not know about it!

• The Boston Marathon is hosted on Patriots Day, April 19th. (Or the closest Monday to that date.) Patriots Day is a holiday only celebrated by Massachusetts and Maine and was set up in remembrance of the start of the Revolutionary War. 
• People from all over the world come to race here. It is not just limited to the United States.
• You must be at least 18 by race day to participate. (If your birthday is race day, then you can still do it.)
• As well as having your typical runner, there are also categories for visually impaired runners, wheelchairs, and hand cycles. 
• There are specific marathons you must run that allow you to qualify for the Boston Marathon. 
• To make it into the Boston Marathon, there is a time requirement. These are broken down by age group and gender. Making the time restraint doesn't guarantee you a spot in the race. It only guarantees you the opportunity to register for the race.
• The fastest qualifiers of each category are accepted in order to participate in the race until the race is full.

There are many other rules and regulations for runners - but those are the basics you should probably know about the race. 

The city just about fully shuts down for this event. (I believe that's why it happens on a holiday.) It's an exciting and busy time for everyone. I can't wait to see it in person.

Good luck, runners! 

Until next time,

Kaity

Sources:

CNN
Boston Athletic Association

Springtime in Wonderland

I know understand why Northerners think it is hot outside while Southerners claim that it's a bit chilly. This is because the Northerners have been trapped in a state of freezing for so long that a day that rises above 50 degrees is warm and anything much above that is a shock to the nervous system. It probably doesn't help that this year was the year that the winter broke records.

Whatever the reason, I'm glad that I am officially able to hang up my down feather winter coat until November. Yesterday, I ran in shorts and a t-shirt and I walked around outside in a dress WITHOUT tights and WITHOUT a jacket. I honestly don't remember the last time I did that. It was wonderful.
So wonderful, in fact, my teacher hosted class outside for the first hour. (After that the sun started setting and it became cold again. Oh, Boston.)

People make me giggle. For my dear friends and family in the south, I know that y'all have been enjoying the warm weather for quite a while now, (and even then, your winter wasn't exactly long) so it might be hard to imagine our joy in rediscovering sun light. Sidewalks were crowded with people and runners. Restaurants had dusted off patio furniture to make way for the overabundance of customers wanting food and beer. Women in shorts and sundresses despite the wind. Thousands of Red Sox jerseys....

Okay, so a majority of the insanity may have also be influenced by the fact that the first home game of the season was happening in Fenway.

All in all, it was quite an enjoyable Monday. Don't get to say that very often.

Until next time,

Kaity