I realized my week day life lacks any sort of entertainment. My daily life consists of waking up getting ready. Then after i get ready I head to work.
I work for 9 hours with an hour break. While at work i am running around with children and trying to keep the behavior maintenance up.
Then after work I go home to maybe work out or otherwise eat dinner and get ready for bed.
I wish my life was more entertaining and I was partaking in more entertainment but when the clock turns to 7 my body just wants to call it quits and crash.
I am hoping now that I have friends in town the entertainment will start to flow again. I'm expecting to hit up a few films this weekend with the visit from my grandfather.
Who knows but I do know i am lacking entertainment in my life right now!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Beware of the Mall
Barton Creek Mall is a mad house come Christmas time.
I never realized how crazy it was because I am usually never in Austin this time of year.
This weekend I had to go up their to try to find a computer that I liked as well as a pea coat. After waiting in the never ending lines to just get into the mall area we found a parking spot probably 30 minutes later.
When we got into the mall the mad house that was outside was not as bad. Sure there were people almost every ten steps but at least the people were moving and not sitting at a dead halt.
I have never seen craziness like this at a mall ever in my 21 years of life. Guess this goes to show it pays off for shopping early.
I never realized how crazy it was because I am usually never in Austin this time of year.
This weekend I had to go up their to try to find a computer that I liked as well as a pea coat. After waiting in the never ending lines to just get into the mall area we found a parking spot probably 30 minutes later.
When we got into the mall the mad house that was outside was not as bad. Sure there were people almost every ten steps but at least the people were moving and not sitting at a dead halt.
I have never seen craziness like this at a mall ever in my 21 years of life. Guess this goes to show it pays off for shopping early.
Driving during Christmas
This weekend I attempted to travel to see the trail of lights. I have never been and this year I decided I wanted to go.
We travelled down towards Zlker Park and that's when it all hit the fan. Traffic was crazy. they had made the road one way and you couldn't even drive past Zilker if you had wanted to. There were people all along the roads walking with cold winter coats and boots. You could see the steam coming off of their breath.
After seeing the people all bundled in coats, and noticing I was in sockless shoes and had a sweat shirt I knew tonight was not the night i was going to get to see the lights.
We still drove down towards the lights in hope that there could be one close spot but we had no such luck. So the lesson learned after this was wear layers and socks, and be prepared to walk a distance to see the lights.
Maybe next time I attempt to go I will have better luck and get to wittiness these lights I have heard about for the past four years.
We travelled down towards Zlker Park and that's when it all hit the fan. Traffic was crazy. they had made the road one way and you couldn't even drive past Zilker if you had wanted to. There were people all along the roads walking with cold winter coats and boots. You could see the steam coming off of their breath.
After seeing the people all bundled in coats, and noticing I was in sockless shoes and had a sweat shirt I knew tonight was not the night i was going to get to see the lights.
We still drove down towards the lights in hope that there could be one close spot but we had no such luck. So the lesson learned after this was wear layers and socks, and be prepared to walk a distance to see the lights.
Maybe next time I attempt to go I will have better luck and get to wittiness these lights I have heard about for the past four years.
Oatmeal can be a meal?
I never realized how fulling one bowl of oatmeal could be until today.
This afternoon my boyfriend and I wondered our way over to Magnolia to grab some mid afternoon breakfast. I had been craving oatmeal all morning and the day before and he was wanting his omelet
We walked in and got seated with in 10 minutes. We sat and pulled out some business we had to get taken care of for the week. Our waitress came and promptly took our food orders. We ordered mag mud (the black beans on the side), a bowl of oatmeal and two scrambled eggs, and an omelet with bacon and cheese.
We sat and took care of things then our queso arrived and we ate the whole thing with in minutes it seemed. Then finally our food arrived after we were scraping off the crumbs from our chip basket to savor every last bite.
I immediately put in my margarine and brown sugar. I mixed it in and the dry oatmeal immediately became a creamy smooth tan mixture. I took my first bite and that was the last of the bites. I began to shovel the oatmeal into my mouth and when it was half way done I began to feel the aftermath of it all.
I wanted to take a break and eat a few bites of my eggs but the oatmeal kept calling me back. I ended up finishing the delicious oatmeal and my stomach couldn't handle any thing else going into it, so my meal was done.
My eggs sat lonely on the table as the cold air crisped them up and prepared them for the cold air outside. Hopefully some raccoon had a nice meal out of my left over eggs, because for me oatmeal was more than enough for my meal.
This afternoon my boyfriend and I wondered our way over to Magnolia to grab some mid afternoon breakfast. I had been craving oatmeal all morning and the day before and he was wanting his omelet
We walked in and got seated with in 10 minutes. We sat and pulled out some business we had to get taken care of for the week. Our waitress came and promptly took our food orders. We ordered mag mud (the black beans on the side), a bowl of oatmeal and two scrambled eggs, and an omelet with bacon and cheese.
We sat and took care of things then our queso arrived and we ate the whole thing with in minutes it seemed. Then finally our food arrived after we were scraping off the crumbs from our chip basket to savor every last bite.
I immediately put in my margarine and brown sugar. I mixed it in and the dry oatmeal immediately became a creamy smooth tan mixture. I took my first bite and that was the last of the bites. I began to shovel the oatmeal into my mouth and when it was half way done I began to feel the aftermath of it all.
I wanted to take a break and eat a few bites of my eggs but the oatmeal kept calling me back. I ended up finishing the delicious oatmeal and my stomach couldn't handle any thing else going into it, so my meal was done.
My eggs sat lonely on the table as the cold air crisped them up and prepared them for the cold air outside. Hopefully some raccoon had a nice meal out of my left over eggs, because for me oatmeal was more than enough for my meal.
Apt Hunting
One of the most tiring thing to do all day is apartment hunting.
This past weekend my boyfriend and I hit up 7 different apartments. I know this may not seem like a lot but visiting these places talking to many different people and sitting there for at least an hour. You can get pretty tired.
I think the best way to look for apartments is to first look online for a rough estimate for the price and the layouts of the apartment. It is important to do your research online first so that you can grasp a feel for what an apartment is like and its surroundings.
The next important step is to probably go ahead and call the facility. By calling them before you visit you can maybe save yourself a trip out to their facility. When you call you can ask for rough estimates on sq footage as well as the prices they are asking for. If this perks your interest then you can add it onto your list for possible homes.
The next step is to go to the actual apartment. Make sure though you map out the apartments so that you wont waste time driving all over the place. When you visit make sure that you bring paper and something to write with. It is crucial to take notes on what you want to know and what you notice about the facility (this way you can go back and look them over.)
Second to last step is to go home and evaluate all your notes and come to a conclusion on which place you wish to stay at. This process can take forever depending on how many places you visited or if you can't decide between two places.
The final step is submitting the application. The applications seem to take forever but it doesn't take long after this to be approved and hopefully move into you happy new home!
I am hoping that the apartment I decided on this weekend is a good pick for us but only time will tell.
This past weekend my boyfriend and I hit up 7 different apartments. I know this may not seem like a lot but visiting these places talking to many different people and sitting there for at least an hour. You can get pretty tired.
I think the best way to look for apartments is to first look online for a rough estimate for the price and the layouts of the apartment. It is important to do your research online first so that you can grasp a feel for what an apartment is like and its surroundings.
The next important step is to probably go ahead and call the facility. By calling them before you visit you can maybe save yourself a trip out to their facility. When you call you can ask for rough estimates on sq footage as well as the prices they are asking for. If this perks your interest then you can add it onto your list for possible homes.
The next step is to go to the actual apartment. Make sure though you map out the apartments so that you wont waste time driving all over the place. When you visit make sure that you bring paper and something to write with. It is crucial to take notes on what you want to know and what you notice about the facility (this way you can go back and look them over.)
Second to last step is to go home and evaluate all your notes and come to a conclusion on which place you wish to stay at. This process can take forever depending on how many places you visited or if you can't decide between two places.
The final step is submitting the application. The applications seem to take forever but it doesn't take long after this to be approved and hopefully move into you happy new home!
I am hoping that the apartment I decided on this weekend is a good pick for us but only time will tell.
Babysitting guide
When babysitting one should know a few things before getting into the business:
1. Can you multi-task?
This past Thursday and Friday I was watching an infant and a five and six year old. The children that can feed themselves were girls and the infant was a boy. Things go very well when he is sleeping because I can play games and attended to the girls needs. However, when he starts crying and there is nothing you can do to make him happy the girls have to be put aside and all attention goes to the baby. He can be a hassle but with a few bounces in the bouncy and playing games with the girls everything can run smoothly.
2. Can you create random food concoctions that children will like?
With these same groups of children I had to create a yummy treat for desert to eat. I scrounged threw the pantry and found some Nutella (a hazelnut and chocolate peanut butter spread) and added it to pretzels. The girls loved it and found it to be a special treat.
Another complication is when I babysit my triplets and they each want something different for dinner. I could be bossy and say they only get one thing but I like to keep them happy so i try my best to cook the children what they like for dinner.
3. Can you maintain the children's attention?
There have been so many times when I have babysat and I get bored with the same activity they are doing over and over again. But I have to realize it isn't about my happiness in the situation its the children's. The children have to be the ones who are happy and well kept because that is what you are hired for.
4. Are you good with children?
I have seen so many people at the preschool that i work at that hate their job. They hate the children and they just don't enjoy anything there. I feel that these people should just find a new profession. I don't think it is a good environment for the children when their teacher doesn't' want to be there just as much as some of them.
Honestly it takes special people to have the patience to work with younger children. And these people are the ones who will make great teachers!
Babysitters may just be a great way for young teens to make some quick "easy" cash. However, in the long run babysitting was the first step for me in noticing I was meant to work with children.
1. Can you multi-task?
This past Thursday and Friday I was watching an infant and a five and six year old. The children that can feed themselves were girls and the infant was a boy. Things go very well when he is sleeping because I can play games and attended to the girls needs. However, when he starts crying and there is nothing you can do to make him happy the girls have to be put aside and all attention goes to the baby. He can be a hassle but with a few bounces in the bouncy and playing games with the girls everything can run smoothly.
2. Can you create random food concoctions that children will like?
With these same groups of children I had to create a yummy treat for desert to eat. I scrounged threw the pantry and found some Nutella (a hazelnut and chocolate peanut butter spread) and added it to pretzels. The girls loved it and found it to be a special treat.
Another complication is when I babysit my triplets and they each want something different for dinner. I could be bossy and say they only get one thing but I like to keep them happy so i try my best to cook the children what they like for dinner.
3. Can you maintain the children's attention?
There have been so many times when I have babysat and I get bored with the same activity they are doing over and over again. But I have to realize it isn't about my happiness in the situation its the children's. The children have to be the ones who are happy and well kept because that is what you are hired for.
4. Are you good with children?
I have seen so many people at the preschool that i work at that hate their job. They hate the children and they just don't enjoy anything there. I feel that these people should just find a new profession. I don't think it is a good environment for the children when their teacher doesn't' want to be there just as much as some of them.
Honestly it takes special people to have the patience to work with younger children. And these people are the ones who will make great teachers!
Babysitters may just be a great way for young teens to make some quick "easy" cash. However, in the long run babysitting was the first step for me in noticing I was meant to work with children.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Upscale Cici's
Most people know about CiCi's, the beloved pizza buffet that costs under 6 bucks for one person. But have many of those CiCi lovers ventured out to Double Daves Wednesday night Buffet?
Well tonight I Wondered out of my routine buffet pizza and tried the Double Daves buffet. See I have never actually been inside a D.D. let alone ever tried their pizza (pepperoni rolls is a different story).
So when I walked in it was a completed surprise. There were wooden areas for seating and random metal signs and licences plates around the walls.
So we ordered two buffets meals and the total came to roughly 17 dollars. We sat our stuff down in a booth right in front of the big screen T.V. playing the Rockets v.s. Pistons basketball game.
We went to the bar and I wasn't fully impressed. They had few selections for pizza and about three different desert pizzas along with their famous pepperoni rolls. They also had a salad bar but I wasn't in the mood for being healthy tonight.
I sat down with my four slices of cheese bread, one slice of pepperoni pizza, one slice of cheese, one slice of sausage, and one pepperoni roll. Three out of the five I got to eat were actually to my taste buds; pepperoni roll, cheese pizza, and sausage pizza.
I ended up going back for more pepperoni rolls and sausage pizza, along with a chocolate chip pizza, and a cinnamon sugar pizza slice. The second round was much better, but that might have been because I threw in some sugary sweets.
As we let our tummys digest we sat and watched the game. The crowds were dimming slowly due to it being closing time but My boyfriend and I just sat and continued to watch the game. When we ended up leaving the Rockets were in the lead.
All in all I came out with this conclusion: If your going for variety and price go to CiCi's because they have pasta, multiple pizza options as well as a salad bar. But if you are going for quality D.D. is your best bet because their food is top notch.
Well tonight I Wondered out of my routine buffet pizza and tried the Double Daves buffet. See I have never actually been inside a D.D. let alone ever tried their pizza (pepperoni rolls is a different story).
So when I walked in it was a completed surprise. There were wooden areas for seating and random metal signs and licences plates around the walls.
So we ordered two buffets meals and the total came to roughly 17 dollars. We sat our stuff down in a booth right in front of the big screen T.V. playing the Rockets v.s. Pistons basketball game.
We went to the bar and I wasn't fully impressed. They had few selections for pizza and about three different desert pizzas along with their famous pepperoni rolls. They also had a salad bar but I wasn't in the mood for being healthy tonight.
I sat down with my four slices of cheese bread, one slice of pepperoni pizza, one slice of cheese, one slice of sausage, and one pepperoni roll. Three out of the five I got to eat were actually to my taste buds; pepperoni roll, cheese pizza, and sausage pizza.
I ended up going back for more pepperoni rolls and sausage pizza, along with a chocolate chip pizza, and a cinnamon sugar pizza slice. The second round was much better, but that might have been because I threw in some sugary sweets.
As we let our tummys digest we sat and watched the game. The crowds were dimming slowly due to it being closing time but My boyfriend and I just sat and continued to watch the game. When we ended up leaving the Rockets were in the lead.
All in all I came out with this conclusion: If your going for variety and price go to CiCi's because they have pasta, multiple pizza options as well as a salad bar. But if you are going for quality D.D. is your best bet because their food is top notch.
Apparently scrooge still exists
Last week a good friend of my took his final. He had to get a 94 or better to get a B in the class. He ended up getting an 86. Now normally it wouldn't be a big deal on whether or not you get a B in a class but for him it meant his job.
He studied hard and worked through many tough challenges this semester including deaths in his family, sick, and over stressed but that didn't seem to be enough.
So this week he called the professor and asked him if there was anything he could do to earn two points on his final grade so that he could get a B in his class. The teacher just plainly said nope. When my friend asked if there was any extra credit assignment to do the teacher said you can retake the exam. This sounded like a good idea until he told my friend that the material being covered on the new exam was all the material he hadn't gotten to cover in class yet.
Honestly who wants to take a test over material that wasn't covered in class and not know what would be on the test and not.
The whole situation is crummy, and honestly why can't some people just bend due to the holiday spirit and the fact that his job is in stake.
I just feel that those people just hate their jobs because it seems that they are out to make other people suffer and have no mercy for them.
He studied hard and worked through many tough challenges this semester including deaths in his family, sick, and over stressed but that didn't seem to be enough.
So this week he called the professor and asked him if there was anything he could do to earn two points on his final grade so that he could get a B in his class. The teacher just plainly said nope. When my friend asked if there was any extra credit assignment to do the teacher said you can retake the exam. This sounded like a good idea until he told my friend that the material being covered on the new exam was all the material he hadn't gotten to cover in class yet.
Honestly who wants to take a test over material that wasn't covered in class and not know what would be on the test and not.
The whole situation is crummy, and honestly why can't some people just bend due to the holiday spirit and the fact that his job is in stake.
I just feel that those people just hate their jobs because it seems that they are out to make other people suffer and have no mercy for them.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Rugby
Rugby is a whole new experience for me. Tonight I went out to a rugby pitch (the field).
It was a brand new idea to me. I saw many boys and girls running aroudn a field playing what looked like football but had a bigger ball.
The guys were split up into two groups the backs had the forwards, and the girls team.
The groups did multiple drills and ran around as the coaches yelled for them to do better and i realized how different boys sports are than girls sports.
Boys get yelled at all the time and told they aren't good enough where as girls are cushioned more and told what they need to do to make it a bit better.
It was a brand new idea to me. I saw many boys and girls running aroudn a field playing what looked like football but had a bigger ball.
The guys were split up into two groups the backs had the forwards, and the girls team.
The groups did multiple drills and ran around as the coaches yelled for them to do better and i realized how different boys sports are than girls sports.
Boys get yelled at all the time and told they aren't good enough where as girls are cushioned more and told what they need to do to make it a bit better.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
The Essentials
When it comes to certain things in life I tend to put some things in front of others just like any normal person.
This morning I had to take a major test that qualifies me as a teacher. So of course since you know people want to get plenty of rest before such an important test I am forced to go to sleep around 11 due to a friend not arriving at my home till late. Then on top of going to bed late I must wake up early due to the test being an hour away.
So last night I wasn't the happiest little camper knowing I wasn't going to be getting tons of sleep before my big test.
Well I got some sleep and woke up early to get ready. We arrived at our test destination and prepared ourselves for the test. We didn't prepare ourselves for the amount that was on the test.
After two in a half hours and 180 questions later I was finally done and fully exhausted. However, my day wasn't over. I must go attend a birthday party.
I realized it is fully essential to get the correct amount of sleep in order to function properly. So after all of my tasks were completed I headed home for a nice long nap! No matter how old you get naps still feel great each time after you wake up.
This morning I had to take a major test that qualifies me as a teacher. So of course since you know people want to get plenty of rest before such an important test I am forced to go to sleep around 11 due to a friend not arriving at my home till late. Then on top of going to bed late I must wake up early due to the test being an hour away.
So last night I wasn't the happiest little camper knowing I wasn't going to be getting tons of sleep before my big test.
Well I got some sleep and woke up early to get ready. We arrived at our test destination and prepared ourselves for the test. We didn't prepare ourselves for the amount that was on the test.
After two in a half hours and 180 questions later I was finally done and fully exhausted. However, my day wasn't over. I must go attend a birthday party.
I realized it is fully essential to get the correct amount of sleep in order to function properly. So after all of my tasks were completed I headed home for a nice long nap! No matter how old you get naps still feel great each time after you wake up.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Pump It Up
Next to Chuck E Cheese Pump it Up is parents safe place to take their children for birthday parties.
Pump it Up contains three arena's with four inflatable games for children to enjoy. Each room as at least one 20 ft slide, one maze, a jump around area with a flower in the middle, and finally a caged in area to bounce and shoot hoops.
The children get to bounce and play in these areas for about 45 minutes before the cake and pizza arrives.
Of course this place is high on safety. Before the children can even enter the arena's they have to watch an information video on the rules and guidelines of Pump It Up. Also, when in the arena the students have at least two staff members watching over and making sure the children try to abide by the rules.
Back to the fun and games. When the children are done with their bouncing and releasing energy they are sent into the party room. In the party room the children are given hand sanitizer and then seated at tables. They will then be served Double Dave's pizza. and Capri Sun's. Finally when the children have eaten their fill of pizza on comes the sugar high with cake!
If the children have enough time after bouncing, eating pizza and cake then the birthday child might get to open their presents. This too can become a disaster. Children can run around everywhere if parents aren't careful on how they run their present distribution.
Over all Pump It Up is a great out source for parents. They just have to purchase the birthday package and pizza, entertainment, and drinks are all provided.
Pump it Up contains three arena's with four inflatable games for children to enjoy. Each room as at least one 20 ft slide, one maze, a jump around area with a flower in the middle, and finally a caged in area to bounce and shoot hoops.
The children get to bounce and play in these areas for about 45 minutes before the cake and pizza arrives.
Of course this place is high on safety. Before the children can even enter the arena's they have to watch an information video on the rules and guidelines of Pump It Up. Also, when in the arena the students have at least two staff members watching over and making sure the children try to abide by the rules.
Back to the fun and games. When the children are done with their bouncing and releasing energy they are sent into the party room. In the party room the children are given hand sanitizer and then seated at tables. They will then be served Double Dave's pizza. and Capri Sun's. Finally when the children have eaten their fill of pizza on comes the sugar high with cake!
If the children have enough time after bouncing, eating pizza and cake then the birthday child might get to open their presents. This too can become a disaster. Children can run around everywhere if parents aren't careful on how they run their present distribution.
Over all Pump It Up is a great out source for parents. They just have to purchase the birthday package and pizza, entertainment, and drinks are all provided.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Sweets galore
Its official... Christmas is here.
You can always tell when Christmas is coming because your daily diet becomes nothing but sugary treats. Teachers have started to give the students candy every class., and the students are starting to comment that their diets have been nothing but sugar.
Sugary treats has been a Christmas trade mark for me for many years. I picture Christmas as my grandma's coming to our house bringing tins filled with an assortment of cookies of all types: from peppermint pin wheels to strawberry shaped shortbread.
The tradition of tin cookies is comming to an end though. This past Feburary my one grandmother passed away. Then my other grandmother is no longer able to move around as swiftly as she use to so cooking is out of the question.
The tradition will be up to my sisters and me to brign back the tin cookies. Hopefully we will begin this year.
You can always tell when Christmas is coming because your daily diet becomes nothing but sugary treats. Teachers have started to give the students candy every class., and the students are starting to comment that their diets have been nothing but sugar.
Sugary treats has been a Christmas trade mark for me for many years. I picture Christmas as my grandma's coming to our house bringing tins filled with an assortment of cookies of all types: from peppermint pin wheels to strawberry shaped shortbread.
The tradition of tin cookies is comming to an end though. This past Feburary my one grandmother passed away. Then my other grandmother is no longer able to move around as swiftly as she use to so cooking is out of the question.
The tradition will be up to my sisters and me to brign back the tin cookies. Hopefully we will begin this year.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Enchanted
Disney's new film enchanted takes the twist of the typical Disney cartoon movie, and transforms it into every day life.
The movie begins with the opening of a classic fairy tale book, similar to the book seen in Sleeping Beauty. Then after the book is opened it goes into the forest and right to Giselle creating her true love out of odds and ends with her forest creature, very Snow White like.
The film goes on making many references to Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, until Giselle gets tossed into reality. It's at this moment where the movie hits a real note for the viewers.
The fairy tales no longer exist and Giselle learns this the hard way. She meets many "New Yorkers" who don't help her out at all. Till finally after attempting to climb a billboard shaped as a castle she meets Robert and his daughter Morgan. They take her in for the night and their lives are never the same afterwards.
Back where Giselle is from her Prince Edwards learns of her disappearance into the magic well and he goes after her. His quest begins to find his Giselle and take her back to his kingdom and wed.
Will Prince Edward ever find Giselle? Or will Giselle learn that life isn't all about fairy tales?
Go to the movies and see Enchanted to find out!
The movie begins with the opening of a classic fairy tale book, similar to the book seen in Sleeping Beauty. Then after the book is opened it goes into the forest and right to Giselle creating her true love out of odds and ends with her forest creature, very Snow White like.
The film goes on making many references to Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, until Giselle gets tossed into reality. It's at this moment where the movie hits a real note for the viewers.
The fairy tales no longer exist and Giselle learns this the hard way. She meets many "New Yorkers" who don't help her out at all. Till finally after attempting to climb a billboard shaped as a castle she meets Robert and his daughter Morgan. They take her in for the night and their lives are never the same afterwards.
Back where Giselle is from her Prince Edwards learns of her disappearance into the magic well and he goes after her. His quest begins to find his Giselle and take her back to his kingdom and wed.
Will Prince Edward ever find Giselle? Or will Giselle learn that life isn't all about fairy tales?
Go to the movies and see Enchanted to find out!
Rush of summer
August Rush is a great new cinema flick that came out a week ago.
This movie is centered around the power of music. A child, Evan Thomas, born to two musicians was orphaned at birth, and is set out on a mission to find out who is parents are.
Evan is thought of as a "freak" for his musical talents when living at the orphan home. Then when he ventures outside of the home and leaves his past behind him to follow the music to hopefully his parents his talents are really observed for what they truly are.
He gets taken in by two different people. One person abuses his talents and the other appreciates.
Evan is challenged through out the movie and has several moments where it would have been a lot easier to have just given up. Instead he follows his heart and the sounds of music to hopefully prevail in his search for his parents through music.
This movie is centered around the power of music. A child, Evan Thomas, born to two musicians was orphaned at birth, and is set out on a mission to find out who is parents are.
Evan is thought of as a "freak" for his musical talents when living at the orphan home. Then when he ventures outside of the home and leaves his past behind him to follow the music to hopefully his parents his talents are really observed for what they truly are.
He gets taken in by two different people. One person abuses his talents and the other appreciates.
Evan is challenged through out the movie and has several moments where it would have been a lot easier to have just given up. Instead he follows his heart and the sounds of music to hopefully prevail in his search for his parents through music.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Glamajama
Heather Nolte is an inspiration for any designer seeking to make it big. She originally started her business as just a fun and trendy way to have clothes for her new son back in 2003. People started to notice her new designs and wanted to know more and the where about of where to find them, and this is what started it all.
Since this first encounter back in 2003 her business has sky rocketed. Many people around the world can be found wearing her creative studded designs. Her designs have grabbed the attention of many people including myself.
Heather has taken out some time in her busy day of taken care of three children as well as her business to answer a few questions.
Christina: When you first started your business were you hesitant and if so why?
Heather: I had started Glamajama back in 2003 simply to make clothes for my son and hopefully get some spending money in the process. I didn’t have much of a business plan and really no concept of how much the company would grow. I looked at the business as more of a hobby, so I wasn’t really hesitant about getting started. Looking back, I was incredibly naïve. I wish I would have taken it more seriously and spent the time putting together a more structured business plan. Over the years, I‘ve learned that to make the company a success I need to treat it more as a business and not just a creative endeavor.
Christina: How does your family feel towards your business?
Heather: Everyone has been incredibly supportive since the beginning. Especially my husband, he has spent many sleepless nights with me getting orders out, creating and updating our website, and traveling with me to trade shows. It is incredibly hard getting a business started and a constant battle to keep it successful. It truly feels like a rollercoaster with all the emotions you go through and I doubt I could have made it this far without their love and support.
Christina: Did you ever think your designs would become this popular?
Heather: No, it’s really been an incredible journey and hard to believe. I remember flipping through the channels and seeing Tia Carrere on Oprah with her new baby girl dressed in Glamajama. They were just sitting there talking and I could hardly believe my eyes. I just kept thinking, somebody pinch me- I’m dreaming!
Christina: How do you feel knowing that there are tons of children out around the world wearing your clothes?
Heather: It’s a tremendous feeling and I just hope they love their Glamajama as much as I love making them!
Christina: Are there any other inspirational influences in your designs other than your children?
Heather: My children are my main influence, but there are always other inspirations. The designs are usually a melting pot of several different thoughts, people, places, and memories. Each one builds on top the next to create a new and unique vision. Once I have sketches of possible new designs in hand, I edit them by deciding which ones showcase the kids best and which ones are true to the Glamajama brand.
Christina: Do you plan your designs according to the seasons or are they just thought up then created?
Heather: Most of our pieces are basics that can be worn year-round. Each Spring and Fall we launch new styles and designs to keep the line updated. As the line evolves, we will become more seasonal with special pieces created only once for each season.
Christina: Do you ever see yourself changing the style of the clothing to where it wasn't studded?
Heather: Absolutely! We’re launching several new pieces at http://www.glamajama.com/ for Spring 2008 that will be a new direction for us. We’ll have some vintage inspired party dresses and a style update to our best-selling couture onesies. I’m extremely excited to be expanding the line and can’t wait to offer more of our items in the toddler sizes as well. As with anything, you have to switch it up every once in awhile to keep it interesting!
Christina: Is it hard sometimes to think of new creative ideas for your designs?
Heather: Sometimes, but I’ve learned not to force ideas. If you let yourself get desperate and settle for an idea that doesn’t really excite you, you’re only setting yourself up for failure. You need to believe in your idea 100% and know with all your heart that it will be a success. If you don’t have that confidence in your design, no one else will.
Christina: What was one of your hardest moments while designing for Glamajama?
Heather: Just getting started was the hardest part. I had graduated from UT Austin with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and spent the last couple years working at an investment firm. I had no clue about how the fashion industry worked or where to go to get help. It was a lot of trial and error and I spent a tremendous amount of time just trying to research the industry. You get knocked down sometimes and I made some stupid mistakes, but eventually my persistence paid off.
Christina: Do you think as your three children get older you will branch out and do teenager clothes and stop making infant/toddler clothes?
Heather: Who knows! I like to keep an open mind and look forward to trying new things and moving in different directions. I enjoy and embrace the challenges of creating something new season after season. I don’t see that changing any time soon!
Heather has more information provided about her and the creation of Glamajama that can be found at her website, Glamajama.com under “About Us”. Also there is a section dedicated to news and press so you can find out other articles written about Nolte as well as celebrities wearing her designs.
Since this first encounter back in 2003 her business has sky rocketed. Many people around the world can be found wearing her creative studded designs. Her designs have grabbed the attention of many people including myself.
Heather has taken out some time in her busy day of taken care of three children as well as her business to answer a few questions.
Christina: When you first started your business were you hesitant and if so why?
Heather: I had started Glamajama back in 2003 simply to make clothes for my son and hopefully get some spending money in the process. I didn’t have much of a business plan and really no concept of how much the company would grow. I looked at the business as more of a hobby, so I wasn’t really hesitant about getting started. Looking back, I was incredibly naïve. I wish I would have taken it more seriously and spent the time putting together a more structured business plan. Over the years, I‘ve learned that to make the company a success I need to treat it more as a business and not just a creative endeavor.
Christina: How does your family feel towards your business?
Heather: Everyone has been incredibly supportive since the beginning. Especially my husband, he has spent many sleepless nights with me getting orders out, creating and updating our website, and traveling with me to trade shows. It is incredibly hard getting a business started and a constant battle to keep it successful. It truly feels like a rollercoaster with all the emotions you go through and I doubt I could have made it this far without their love and support.
Christina: Did you ever think your designs would become this popular?
Heather: No, it’s really been an incredible journey and hard to believe. I remember flipping through the channels and seeing Tia Carrere on Oprah with her new baby girl dressed in Glamajama. They were just sitting there talking and I could hardly believe my eyes. I just kept thinking, somebody pinch me- I’m dreaming!
Christina: How do you feel knowing that there are tons of children out around the world wearing your clothes?
Heather: It’s a tremendous feeling and I just hope they love their Glamajama as much as I love making them!
Christina: Are there any other inspirational influences in your designs other than your children?
Heather: My children are my main influence, but there are always other inspirations. The designs are usually a melting pot of several different thoughts, people, places, and memories. Each one builds on top the next to create a new and unique vision. Once I have sketches of possible new designs in hand, I edit them by deciding which ones showcase the kids best and which ones are true to the Glamajama brand.
Christina: Do you plan your designs according to the seasons or are they just thought up then created?
Heather: Most of our pieces are basics that can be worn year-round. Each Spring and Fall we launch new styles and designs to keep the line updated. As the line evolves, we will become more seasonal with special pieces created only once for each season.
Christina: Do you ever see yourself changing the style of the clothing to where it wasn't studded?
Heather: Absolutely! We’re launching several new pieces at http://www.glamajama.com/ for Spring 2008 that will be a new direction for us. We’ll have some vintage inspired party dresses and a style update to our best-selling couture onesies. I’m extremely excited to be expanding the line and can’t wait to offer more of our items in the toddler sizes as well. As with anything, you have to switch it up every once in awhile to keep it interesting!
Christina: Is it hard sometimes to think of new creative ideas for your designs?
Heather: Sometimes, but I’ve learned not to force ideas. If you let yourself get desperate and settle for an idea that doesn’t really excite you, you’re only setting yourself up for failure. You need to believe in your idea 100% and know with all your heart that it will be a success. If you don’t have that confidence in your design, no one else will.
Christina: What was one of your hardest moments while designing for Glamajama?
Heather: Just getting started was the hardest part. I had graduated from UT Austin with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and spent the last couple years working at an investment firm. I had no clue about how the fashion industry worked or where to go to get help. It was a lot of trial and error and I spent a tremendous amount of time just trying to research the industry. You get knocked down sometimes and I made some stupid mistakes, but eventually my persistence paid off.
Christina: Do you think as your three children get older you will branch out and do teenager clothes and stop making infant/toddler clothes?
Heather: Who knows! I like to keep an open mind and look forward to trying new things and moving in different directions. I enjoy and embrace the challenges of creating something new season after season. I don’t see that changing any time soon!
Heather has more information provided about her and the creation of Glamajama that can be found at her website, Glamajama.com under “About Us”. Also there is a section dedicated to news and press so you can find out other articles written about Nolte as well as celebrities wearing her designs.
Monday, November 26, 2007
SEU Girls Soccer Season Review
Woman’s Hilltoppers soccer comes to end November 11. However, their year was one to brag about for years to come.
The season began for the girls on August 4th with pre-season. They were getting ready with two a days and it was hot. During preseason was when the girls came up with their goals they wanted to accomplish during the season. They wanted to win conference make it to regional conference and have fun.
These goals seemed to look plausible when they started their season on august 24th. They beat both teams Truman and Ouachita. These games also represented a huge cause for the Hilltopper girls. These games were dedicated to Kim Yeatts mother of player Kelsey who had battled cancer. The teams wore breast cancer uniforms and were fully supporting the Susan G Koman foundation.
Their next game was against Steven F Austin on August 31, their first D1 school to play this season. This provided a great new experience for the girls. They had to up their playing level because this wasn’t a walk in the park they ended up losing the game in overtime but didn’t lose hope.
The next weekend was fun for the girls they traveled east to Florida to play in their tournament. They won against Barry easily then had their grudge match against Tampa. Last season Tampa lost against our Lady Hilltoppers here at our turf so when Tampa had a chance to beat our girls at their turf they took it, Tampa 3 Toppers 2.
The conference officially started the following weekend, September 16. The girls had a great start they battled many teams but none where prepared for what St. Edwards had to bring until October 14th when the girls faced Incarnate Word.
This was their first challenging game. Incarnate Word came out to beat the winning streak St. Edwards had. The game was tied at half time of one to one and no one seemed to be giving in. The girls battled it out through one over time. Then in the second over time with 20 seconds remaining Incarnate Word scored making the new score Incarnate Word 2 and St. Edwards 1. This taught the girls a very valuable lesson. It “taught them that they have to battle each game and they can’t show up, you have to work”, Kristen Gascoyne.
After this loss the girls reflected and kept on playing their hearts out. It was towards this time they added a new goal to their list. They wanted to be in the final four. The girls went on playing and winning every game up into where it counted most.
November 2nd and 4th were big games for the girls. They had to win both of these games in order to win conference. November 2nd was their rival game. They were challenging Incarnate Word yet again in their season. They needed this win more than ever and prevailed with the victory with St. Edwards 3 and Incarnate Word 1.
St. Edwards was ecstatic and beat the next team, aTm intl., to gain the title Co-Conference Champs and first in the region. This was the first time ever for St. Edward’s girl’s soccer to be titled first in the region and to receive the tournament for playoffs to be held at St. Eds.
The girls were strong and ready for their first match up. The fans were as ready as the players. There were clumps of people all around the hill. Parents were all talking about the past games and games to come, everyone was ready to see what SEU girls had to bring.
The game against Central Oklahoma began. Cheers and claps could be heard from the stands. People cheered for great plays and booed for bad calls. Fouls were given left and right for both teams leading to say this was going to be a fighting match till the end. Half way through the first half St. Edwards scores the first goal.
SEU fans were excited the half ended and everyone prepared for what the second half was going to bring. Twenty-five minutes into the second half Oklahoma scored making it a tied game. Everyone got nervous as the second half ended with a tie and over time was about to begin.
Over time began and again the constant battle for victory kept pursuing. The final two minutes were approaching and Oklahoma finally received the break they had been looking for the whole game they got a break away and scored the winning goal. SEU fans were silent.
As the players left the field fans cheered them off with the chant “ST. EDS! ST. EDS!” Even though the season ended the fans and players will live on through memories of this years 2007 Lady Hilltopper Soccer team!
The season began for the girls on August 4th with pre-season. They were getting ready with two a days and it was hot. During preseason was when the girls came up with their goals they wanted to accomplish during the season. They wanted to win conference make it to regional conference and have fun.
These goals seemed to look plausible when they started their season on august 24th. They beat both teams Truman and Ouachita. These games also represented a huge cause for the Hilltopper girls. These games were dedicated to Kim Yeatts mother of player Kelsey who had battled cancer. The teams wore breast cancer uniforms and were fully supporting the Susan G Koman foundation.
Their next game was against Steven F Austin on August 31, their first D1 school to play this season. This provided a great new experience for the girls. They had to up their playing level because this wasn’t a walk in the park they ended up losing the game in overtime but didn’t lose hope.
The next weekend was fun for the girls they traveled east to Florida to play in their tournament. They won against Barry easily then had their grudge match against Tampa. Last season Tampa lost against our Lady Hilltoppers here at our turf so when Tampa had a chance to beat our girls at their turf they took it, Tampa 3 Toppers 2.
The conference officially started the following weekend, September 16. The girls had a great start they battled many teams but none where prepared for what St. Edwards had to bring until October 14th when the girls faced Incarnate Word.
This was their first challenging game. Incarnate Word came out to beat the winning streak St. Edwards had. The game was tied at half time of one to one and no one seemed to be giving in. The girls battled it out through one over time. Then in the second over time with 20 seconds remaining Incarnate Word scored making the new score Incarnate Word 2 and St. Edwards 1. This taught the girls a very valuable lesson. It “taught them that they have to battle each game and they can’t show up, you have to work”, Kristen Gascoyne.
After this loss the girls reflected and kept on playing their hearts out. It was towards this time they added a new goal to their list. They wanted to be in the final four. The girls went on playing and winning every game up into where it counted most.
November 2nd and 4th were big games for the girls. They had to win both of these games in order to win conference. November 2nd was their rival game. They were challenging Incarnate Word yet again in their season. They needed this win more than ever and prevailed with the victory with St. Edwards 3 and Incarnate Word 1.
St. Edwards was ecstatic and beat the next team, aTm intl., to gain the title Co-Conference Champs and first in the region. This was the first time ever for St. Edward’s girl’s soccer to be titled first in the region and to receive the tournament for playoffs to be held at St. Eds.
The girls were strong and ready for their first match up. The fans were as ready as the players. There were clumps of people all around the hill. Parents were all talking about the past games and games to come, everyone was ready to see what SEU girls had to bring.
The game against Central Oklahoma began. Cheers and claps could be heard from the stands. People cheered for great plays and booed for bad calls. Fouls were given left and right for both teams leading to say this was going to be a fighting match till the end. Half way through the first half St. Edwards scores the first goal.
SEU fans were excited the half ended and everyone prepared for what the second half was going to bring. Twenty-five minutes into the second half Oklahoma scored making it a tied game. Everyone got nervous as the second half ended with a tie and over time was about to begin.
Over time began and again the constant battle for victory kept pursuing. The final two minutes were approaching and Oklahoma finally received the break they had been looking for the whole game they got a break away and scored the winning goal. SEU fans were silent.
As the players left the field fans cheered them off with the chant “ST. EDS! ST. EDS!” Even though the season ended the fans and players will live on through memories of this years 2007 Lady Hilltopper Soccer team!
3D makes all the difference
IMAX in Houston is playing the new movie Beowulf. This movie blew me away.
It started out first by being played in the IMAX. Which means awesomely huge screens to see every detail on! Then it proceeded with the fantastic 3D glasses to amplify the scenes and events.
And finally the movie was actually done all in cartoons which surprisingly looked almost exactly to some of the characters.
I was shocked to get to see this movie in such a large screen. By having it in a large screen the audience was ale to see everything that sometimes could be blocked by sitting in a small crowded theatre. Also, by being in an IMAX the sounds were boomed through the speakers as every creature and fight was going on.
By having the 3D glasses it gave the movie a physical experience. We could actually feel like we were there in the scene and could actually touch the people around us. It made us feel as though we were part of the audience.
Finally by having the cartoon characters added to the appreciation of the film. The artists took their time to make each character look as life like as possible. There were many moments through out the film where I forgot the people weren't really people at all.
All in all this movie amazes me and if you plan on seeing it try to go see it at the IMAX. It is well worth the extra money for all the features!
It started out first by being played in the IMAX. Which means awesomely huge screens to see every detail on! Then it proceeded with the fantastic 3D glasses to amplify the scenes and events.
And finally the movie was actually done all in cartoons which surprisingly looked almost exactly to some of the characters.
I was shocked to get to see this movie in such a large screen. By having it in a large screen the audience was ale to see everything that sometimes could be blocked by sitting in a small crowded theatre. Also, by being in an IMAX the sounds were boomed through the speakers as every creature and fight was going on.
By having the 3D glasses it gave the movie a physical experience. We could actually feel like we were there in the scene and could actually touch the people around us. It made us feel as though we were part of the audience.
Finally by having the cartoon characters added to the appreciation of the film. The artists took their time to make each character look as life like as possible. There were many moments through out the film where I forgot the people weren't really people at all.
All in all this movie amazes me and if you plan on seeing it try to go see it at the IMAX. It is well worth the extra money for all the features!
Holiday Spirit
I happened upon holiday spirit Nov. 9 as I was walking around the preschool where I work. I noticed that outside every door were little colored pendants to represent Diwali, Hindu New Year. I walked into a classroom so that I could learn more about this holiday. The homes during this celebration are cleaned and windows are opened so that Lakshmi, Hindu goddess of wealth, can enter. It is said that she can’t enter a house which is not lit up, so every household burns special Diwali clay lamp to light a way for the goddess, nicknaming the holiday Festival of Lights. It amazes me how light embraces many different holidays this time of year reminding us of hope, purification, and religion.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
What some jobs do on their free day
What do NFL trainers do on a bye week? This question pondered me because the players aren't going to be their and so who would they be training if no one was there.
Then the answer came...XBOX 360! That week that some of the NFL teams had a bye one of the Texas teams trainers were in their offices playing Halo three, Madden, and other fun 360 games.
Who would have thought that on a day off grown men in their late 30's and older would be sitting around a t.v. competing in a video game.
Then the answer came...XBOX 360! That week that some of the NFL teams had a bye one of the Texas teams trainers were in their offices playing Halo three, Madden, and other fun 360 games.
Who would have thought that on a day off grown men in their late 30's and older would be sitting around a t.v. competing in a video game.
Monday, November 12, 2007
HOP with out the I
House Of Pies a restaurant found in the outskirts of Houston isn't as appealing as it seems.
HOP was originally an old IHOP restaurant and it got turned into the Pie place instead of pancake. The food is similar to food you could find in your every day Denny's, or IHOP. But the reason people come to this restaurant is for the Pies.
They have a vast selection of pies going from cream, fruit, specialty, and meringue. They have other types of deserts but people wouldn't go to HOP for anything other than pies.
The service here isn't one to brag about. They were slow to come to your table but quick to bring out the pies. The environment isn't one to dress to impress to. It is your classical down to earth in a sense run down restaurant.
The pies also weren't as amazing as hoped. They came out cold but that might be since we didn't order the hot pies. But one would think that if you ordered a fruit pie it would be warm so that the ice cream would melt right on top. The chocolate cream pie tasted as though it was Jello pudding with a whip.
All in all HOP isn't as it seems. If you want a down to earth grungy pie house then HOP is the place for you, and if you are wanting high class Pie's then I am fresh out of ideas.
HOP was originally an old IHOP restaurant and it got turned into the Pie place instead of pancake. The food is similar to food you could find in your every day Denny's, or IHOP. But the reason people come to this restaurant is for the Pies.
They have a vast selection of pies going from cream, fruit, specialty, and meringue. They have other types of deserts but people wouldn't go to HOP for anything other than pies.
The service here isn't one to brag about. They were slow to come to your table but quick to bring out the pies. The environment isn't one to dress to impress to. It is your classical down to earth in a sense run down restaurant.
The pies also weren't as amazing as hoped. They came out cold but that might be since we didn't order the hot pies. But one would think that if you ordered a fruit pie it would be warm so that the ice cream would melt right on top. The chocolate cream pie tasted as though it was Jello pudding with a whip.
All in all HOP isn't as it seems. If you want a down to earth grungy pie house then HOP is the place for you, and if you are wanting high class Pie's then I am fresh out of ideas.
It's all about Bee's
Dreamworks keeps on trucking with their newest children's flick Bee Movie.
The movie starts with the traditional Dreamworks boy sitting on the moon and instead of him just sitting their a bee comes up and stings him off. Which leads to the movie progressing with bee's.
The movie progresses and the Bee, Barry, becomes your typical teenage boy. He wants to explore and not be tied down to one thing. He gets the chance to explore the outside world with the "pollen jocks". and while outside he meets a human and this is where the drama begins.
Barry goes through many challenges and triumphs through out this movie and keeps the typical Dreamworks cartoon comedy. While watching this movie it brought me back to when Shrek first came out the theaters.
I feel that Dreamworks has a great idea going on with their cartoon creatures and innu windows sprinkled in through out the film. Shrek I, II ,and III were all hits as well as Shark Tale. I think as long as they keep up the random creatures with great classic music these movies will keep attracting children as well as adults to their movies.
The movie starts with the traditional Dreamworks boy sitting on the moon and instead of him just sitting their a bee comes up and stings him off. Which leads to the movie progressing with bee's.
The movie progresses and the Bee, Barry, becomes your typical teenage boy. He wants to explore and not be tied down to one thing. He gets the chance to explore the outside world with the "pollen jocks". and while outside he meets a human and this is where the drama begins.
Barry goes through many challenges and triumphs through out this movie and keeps the typical Dreamworks cartoon comedy. While watching this movie it brought me back to when Shrek first came out the theaters.
I feel that Dreamworks has a great idea going on with their cartoon creatures and innu windows sprinkled in through out the film. Shrek I, II ,and III were all hits as well as Shark Tale. I think as long as they keep up the random creatures with great classic music these movies will keep attracting children as well as adults to their movies.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
"Out work not work out" SEU Girls Basketball
“Out work not work out” is the motto of this years SEU girls basketball team. The girls want to out work their opponents this year. They view that this phrase sends a more positive message for when they are working out. The teams season is about to start and so far things are looking good for the team. The team is the same except for the transfer student from SMU, Leah Starr. The team struggled almost all last season with trying to build chemistry, so this year having close to the same team will be a great advantage.
The Heartland conference is still going to be tough as always this season. The conference has changed just a bit with Montana leaving and Kansas Newman entering to take its place. Last years tough teams that the girls always face St. Mary’s and Incarnate Word are still here and strong. Last year SEU was 3rd in conference right behind Incarnate Word (2nd) and right before St Mary’s (4th). This year we are hoping to be ahead of them both.
We had other highlights last season. SEU was second in the scoring defense with a total of 1,630 points. Also the team was sharp on their free throws in comparison with the other teams. They were ranked second in this stat as well with attempting 518 shots and making 370. Hilltopper basketball girls dominated the rebounding stats. They were ranked first in rebounding offense, defense, and margin.
The girls have been practicing a lot this school year to get ready for their up coming season. Practices begin at 6:30 AM and some end around 10 PM. Their practices consist of a serious of shooting, defensive, and offensive drills. Sometimes the teams get to play four on four, half court, and full court scrimmages. Every practice is very competitive so it keeps the players working hard because they know if they loose at the drill or scrimmage they will have to run. Even though there is a lot of competition the team stays very positive. The practices are filled with tons of enthusiasm and clapping while everyone is working to keep each other up as well as get better.
The team is amply prepared for their first tournament November 16 & 17th which also happen to include some of the first home games of the season. The woman’s basketball team plays Missouri Southern State and Abilene Christian. After this tournament the next anticipated tournament for the team takes place during Thanksgiving Break. The girls will be traveling to Denver to participate in the Metro State Tourney. Then during Christmas the team will be traveling to the warm Nassau, Bahamas. Here they will get to participate in the Bahamas tournament.
Senior Tammy Bartosh is “really looking forward to her senior year”. She has played all four of her years here at St. Eds and can’t wait to finish out her senior year strong. Other seniors include Alana Lara, Becca Nagel, Alesheia White, and Jackie Saathoff.
Keep an eye out when November rolls around. Go out and support our teams to help them gain victories and hopefully the title of 2007-2008 Conference Champions.
The Heartland conference is still going to be tough as always this season. The conference has changed just a bit with Montana leaving and Kansas Newman entering to take its place. Last years tough teams that the girls always face St. Mary’s and Incarnate Word are still here and strong. Last year SEU was 3rd in conference right behind Incarnate Word (2nd) and right before St Mary’s (4th). This year we are hoping to be ahead of them both.
We had other highlights last season. SEU was second in the scoring defense with a total of 1,630 points. Also the team was sharp on their free throws in comparison with the other teams. They were ranked second in this stat as well with attempting 518 shots and making 370. Hilltopper basketball girls dominated the rebounding stats. They were ranked first in rebounding offense, defense, and margin.
The girls have been practicing a lot this school year to get ready for their up coming season. Practices begin at 6:30 AM and some end around 10 PM. Their practices consist of a serious of shooting, defensive, and offensive drills. Sometimes the teams get to play four on four, half court, and full court scrimmages. Every practice is very competitive so it keeps the players working hard because they know if they loose at the drill or scrimmage they will have to run. Even though there is a lot of competition the team stays very positive. The practices are filled with tons of enthusiasm and clapping while everyone is working to keep each other up as well as get better.
The team is amply prepared for their first tournament November 16 & 17th which also happen to include some of the first home games of the season. The woman’s basketball team plays Missouri Southern State and Abilene Christian. After this tournament the next anticipated tournament for the team takes place during Thanksgiving Break. The girls will be traveling to Denver to participate in the Metro State Tourney. Then during Christmas the team will be traveling to the warm Nassau, Bahamas. Here they will get to participate in the Bahamas tournament.
Senior Tammy Bartosh is “really looking forward to her senior year”. She has played all four of her years here at St. Eds and can’t wait to finish out her senior year strong. Other seniors include Alana Lara, Becca Nagel, Alesheia White, and Jackie Saathoff.
Keep an eye out when November rolls around. Go out and support our teams to help them gain victories and hopefully the title of 2007-2008 Conference Champions.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Four Game Sweep
After four games the Red Sox won the World Series! Tears of joy/disappointment are shed on the Rockies field tonight.
After Papelbon, the closing pitcher, pitched his third strike against the Rockies, the team was ecstatic. The players and coaches on the field as well as in the dugout jumped for joy after the third swing missed for the final strike.
The games seemed to be an easy victory for Boston. Games two and four were a bit of a struggle but in the end Boston triumphed.
Game one:
Red Sox: 13
Rockies: 1
Game two:
Red Sox: 2
Rockies: 1
Game three:
Red Sox: 10
Rockies: 5
Game Four:
Red Sox: 4
Rockies: 3
The MVP of the game was Mike Lowell. Mike's contract is up this year and he has to decide on whether or not to return to Boston. He isn't sure yet but tonight he is "going to enjoy the victory."
Red Sox Nation celebrates tonight and probably the rest of the week.
After Papelbon, the closing pitcher, pitched his third strike against the Rockies, the team was ecstatic. The players and coaches on the field as well as in the dugout jumped for joy after the third swing missed for the final strike.
The games seemed to be an easy victory for Boston. Games two and four were a bit of a struggle but in the end Boston triumphed.
Game one:
Red Sox: 13
Rockies: 1
Game two:
Red Sox: 2
Rockies: 1
Game three:
Red Sox: 10
Rockies: 5
Game Four:
Red Sox: 4
Rockies: 3
The MVP of the game was Mike Lowell. Mike's contract is up this year and he has to decide on whether or not to return to Boston. He isn't sure yet but tonight he is "going to enjoy the victory."
Red Sox Nation celebrates tonight and probably the rest of the week.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Heartbreak kid breaks viewers hearts
Heartbreak kid breaks viewer’s heart. This comedy is nothing short from a let down.
The movie starts out with Eddie (Ben Stiller), a mid aged forty year old, out walking around with his father Doc (Jerry Stiller) on Valentines Day. The two are discussing their plans for the holiday.
The two squabble about the plans that Eddie has made (going to his ex fiances wedding). His father thinks he should be out hooking up with some chick rather than seeing his son go to his ex’s wedding. Where as Eddie feels this would be a good closure.
After this scene, viewers can already tell that the father is not your typical old man. He says multiple vulgar phrases through out the entire movie which shouldn’t be repeated in normal day conversations.
The next problem arising is with the wife, Lila (Malin Akerman). This woman at first comes across as a modest and well respectable woman. Only to find out, as the relationship between Eddie and Lila progresses, she is nothing short of a potty mouth. She was using sexual phrases that a coma sutra book doesn’t contain.
The movie’s setting is gorgeous in Cabo, Mexico. The hotel and town views were captivating. The room the couple stayed in looked as though it was made for a royal couple.
The walls were beige with three main rooms. The living room was connected with the dinning area and a mini bar. Then there was the bed room in the back with a king size bed and a bathroom that connected to it.
The setting was priceless but it wasn’t enough to make the whole movie.
How good of a movie can you make with the plot a man who is convinced that he has finally met the right girl and marries too quickly? While on his honeymoon and in the process of discovering that his new bride is a nightmare, he meets the girl of his dreams.
This set up is going to offend people. Another Ben Stiller movie this reminds viewers of this same set up is “Along Came Polly”. This set up starts the same with Stiller’s character going on his honeymoon with his wife only for his wife to find another man. This same set up is only reversed in “The Heartbreak Kid.”
Another movie that this movie can be compared to is again another one of Ben Stiller’s films, “There’s Something about Mary.” Here the female object of Stiller’s eye is not the normal female. She is rather off and not fully aware of the things around her. Where as in “Heartbreak Kid” the female, Lila, is living in a fantasy world where she doesn’t fully clue in her new husband of all her flaws till on the honeymoon.
People are starting to get tired of the same old scene with Stiller trying to impress a girl. He has played this role way to many times and to be a true actor one should be versatile and never remembered as that one actor who plays that one role.
The movie starts out with Eddie (Ben Stiller), a mid aged forty year old, out walking around with his father Doc (Jerry Stiller) on Valentines Day. The two are discussing their plans for the holiday.
The two squabble about the plans that Eddie has made (going to his ex fiances wedding). His father thinks he should be out hooking up with some chick rather than seeing his son go to his ex’s wedding. Where as Eddie feels this would be a good closure.
After this scene, viewers can already tell that the father is not your typical old man. He says multiple vulgar phrases through out the entire movie which shouldn’t be repeated in normal day conversations.
The next problem arising is with the wife, Lila (Malin Akerman). This woman at first comes across as a modest and well respectable woman. Only to find out, as the relationship between Eddie and Lila progresses, she is nothing short of a potty mouth. She was using sexual phrases that a coma sutra book doesn’t contain.
The movie’s setting is gorgeous in Cabo, Mexico. The hotel and town views were captivating. The room the couple stayed in looked as though it was made for a royal couple.
The walls were beige with three main rooms. The living room was connected with the dinning area and a mini bar. Then there was the bed room in the back with a king size bed and a bathroom that connected to it.
The setting was priceless but it wasn’t enough to make the whole movie.
How good of a movie can you make with the plot a man who is convinced that he has finally met the right girl and marries too quickly? While on his honeymoon and in the process of discovering that his new bride is a nightmare, he meets the girl of his dreams.
This set up is going to offend people. Another Ben Stiller movie this reminds viewers of this same set up is “Along Came Polly”. This set up starts the same with Stiller’s character going on his honeymoon with his wife only for his wife to find another man. This same set up is only reversed in “The Heartbreak Kid.”
Another movie that this movie can be compared to is again another one of Ben Stiller’s films, “There’s Something about Mary.” Here the female object of Stiller’s eye is not the normal female. She is rather off and not fully aware of the things around her. Where as in “Heartbreak Kid” the female, Lila, is living in a fantasy world where she doesn’t fully clue in her new husband of all her flaws till on the honeymoon.
People are starting to get tired of the same old scene with Stiller trying to impress a girl. He has played this role way to many times and to be a true actor one should be versatile and never remembered as that one actor who plays that one role.
Homecoming Woodlands Style
Homecoming a tradition that has been around for ages. Different schools take the tradition different ways some do barn yard dances where as others do prom type dances. The Woodlands High school is one of those prom schools. They take the extreme ways of everything.
Most students don't even attend the games that's on Friday they just get all the prep work done. The Friday before the dance students who have dates exchange mums and garters. These are pendants that have a fake mum flower on the top with streamers , toys , gadgets and of course cowbell attached to the flower on the bottom.
The next day is when all the festivities are, dance night. This dance for The Woodlands is like a baby prom for all high schoolers The girls get their hair and nails done, buy dresses that are elegant long and can cost a fortune if students don't know how to bargain shop.
The high schoolers get ready and leave the house around 5 to go take pictures and make it on time to their dinner reservations. Pictures have to be just right and in the perfect place. Parents are crowded trying to get each shot.
The kids finally get to leave their parents by limo and head off to their restaurant. After the restaurant starts the real fun because the students are alone and mostly unsupervised. They head off to the actual dance and enter the homecoming scene.
Each homecoming has a theme this years theme was midnight on the Nile. The cafeteria at the school is decorated to address the theme. For this years decorations they just had plain white sheets on the walls with colored lights shining up on them. The hallway for where the girls could put their purses and guys there jackets was covered with black paper and hieroglyphics on it.
Apparently this year though the music was horrible. The DJ's usually try to play some dancing music but for this time the students couldn't' dance. One student quoted , " it was like bad rap music and no one was dancing."
Even though the music and scenery lacked to normal Woodlands standards for homecoming the after party was apparently still up to par. The group had a sleep over at one of the girls house and stayed up the whole night talking and just having a good time.
Another homecoming was wrapped up and for some students this isn't the last dance of the year. But for the rest they have a whole year to wait for their next overdone dance.
Most students don't even attend the games that's on Friday they just get all the prep work done. The Friday before the dance students who have dates exchange mums and garters. These are pendants that have a fake mum flower on the top with streamers , toys , gadgets and of course cowbell attached to the flower on the bottom.
The next day is when all the festivities are, dance night. This dance for The Woodlands is like a baby prom for all high schoolers The girls get their hair and nails done, buy dresses that are elegant long and can cost a fortune if students don't know how to bargain shop.
The high schoolers get ready and leave the house around 5 to go take pictures and make it on time to their dinner reservations. Pictures have to be just right and in the perfect place. Parents are crowded trying to get each shot.
The kids finally get to leave their parents by limo and head off to their restaurant. After the restaurant starts the real fun because the students are alone and mostly unsupervised. They head off to the actual dance and enter the homecoming scene.
Each homecoming has a theme this years theme was midnight on the Nile. The cafeteria at the school is decorated to address the theme. For this years decorations they just had plain white sheets on the walls with colored lights shining up on them. The hallway for where the girls could put their purses and guys there jackets was covered with black paper and hieroglyphics on it.
Apparently this year though the music was horrible. The DJ's usually try to play some dancing music but for this time the students couldn't' dance. One student quoted , " it was like bad rap music and no one was dancing."
Even though the music and scenery lacked to normal Woodlands standards for homecoming the after party was apparently still up to par. The group had a sleep over at one of the girls house and stayed up the whole night talking and just having a good time.
Another homecoming was wrapped up and for some students this isn't the last dance of the year. But for the rest they have a whole year to wait for their next overdone dance.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Radio Football
Football games are broad casted through three different types of entertainment; T.V., Internet, and for people not at home radio.
Today I experienced listening to football through the radio. It was the fourth quarter of the Texans vs Titans game and the Texans were down 22 to 35.
I was listening intensely and the Texans scored again, making the score 29 to 35. I was into the game. Every play I was listening waiting to hear what was going to happen next. The emotions were running even though I wasn't watching the game.
Only problem I had with listening to the game on a radio was the fact that the station wasn't clear and had a lot of white noise. Then when I pulled up into a gas station it went completely away. This created some frustrations because during my station being flaky the Texans scored again making the score 36 to 35 with 50 seconds remaining.
The game ended with the Titan's kicker making his 8th kick of the day to win for his team in the last 2 seconds of the game. The steering wheel received a good beating during and after the game was done.
I never knew listening to a game on the radio could be so intense. I found myself hitting the steering wheel at poor plays and shouting yes when it was a great play. I was fully into the game even though I couldn't see it.
Today I experienced listening to football through the radio. It was the fourth quarter of the Texans vs Titans game and the Texans were down 22 to 35.
I was listening intensely and the Texans scored again, making the score 29 to 35. I was into the game. Every play I was listening waiting to hear what was going to happen next. The emotions were running even though I wasn't watching the game.
Only problem I had with listening to the game on a radio was the fact that the station wasn't clear and had a lot of white noise. Then when I pulled up into a gas station it went completely away. This created some frustrations because during my station being flaky the Texans scored again making the score 36 to 35 with 50 seconds remaining.
The game ended with the Titan's kicker making his 8th kick of the day to win for his team in the last 2 seconds of the game. The steering wheel received a good beating during and after the game was done.
I never knew listening to a game on the radio could be so intense. I found myself hitting the steering wheel at poor plays and shouting yes when it was a great play. I was fully into the game even though I couldn't see it.
Sunday Mornings
Sunday mornings are made for sleeping in, church and of course brunch. Only problem is the time you go to brunch.
If you go early the restaurants might not be open. And the service could be slow when you first get their because everything is getting ready and warmed.
Where as if you go too late you will run into the church crowd. And restaurants being busy as all get out with lines almost out the door.
So when is the perfect time to go to restaurants for your Sunday brunch? I'm starting to think that its either around 10 or going around 2.
Ten is good because most mass or services are around 9: 30. This makes the crowds smaller because the church people are still in church. Also the restaurant is usually opened by 9 so the burners are all warm so it takes less time for your food to arrive.
Two is also a good time because again the last morning church service is usually at 12. So this is a while after the last service gets out. The people will mostly be done with eating and will be out running their errands or home for family time. Only down side to going later is the restaurant might be out of the item you wanted to eat.
Sunday is just a pick or miss when it comes to brunch.
If you go early the restaurants might not be open. And the service could be slow when you first get their because everything is getting ready and warmed.
Where as if you go too late you will run into the church crowd. And restaurants being busy as all get out with lines almost out the door.
So when is the perfect time to go to restaurants for your Sunday brunch? I'm starting to think that its either around 10 or going around 2.
Ten is good because most mass or services are around 9: 30. This makes the crowds smaller because the church people are still in church. Also the restaurant is usually opened by 9 so the burners are all warm so it takes less time for your food to arrive.
Two is also a good time because again the last morning church service is usually at 12. So this is a while after the last service gets out. The people will mostly be done with eating and will be out running their errands or home for family time. Only down side to going later is the restaurant might be out of the item you wanted to eat.
Sunday is just a pick or miss when it comes to brunch.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Jack O' Lanterns
Halloween, this word brings to mind many things: candy, costumes, trick or treating, jack o lanterns, ect. But one thing that doesn't come to mind is dangerous.
Parents always tell their children not to take candy from strangers. Another rule of Halloween is that the children are to wait till they get home to eat their candy so their parents can check for harmful objects located in the kids candy.
But there are more dangers that just candy. Jack O lanterns are now becoming a dangerous item for Halloween as well. Parents need to keep a close eye on these cute decorations.
This past Thursday my next door neighbors had their pumpkin lit and were getting in the mood for Halloween. Only problem was by the time I got home the pumpkin was no longer existing. Instead lay a flame flickering on the corner of the house.
My friend and I were hesitant to go to the neighbors since we didn't know if it was a planned fire or not. We ended up ringing the doorbell and informed the neighbors. They were shocked to know the side of their house was on fire.
The grandmother of the house took the sprinkler they had running and sprayed the fire to only discover it blaze up and light the whole side of the house. After her second spray the fire finally gave in to the water and RIP.
We left the scene to learn that parents should not only watch the candy that their children are eating but also the decorations. Christmas isn't now the only holiday that decorations can catch on fire.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
A Fine Frenzy
A fine frenzy is a very passionate and talented artist. She is a 22 year old originally from Seattle. She is a self taught pianist as well as song writer. She has finally come out with her first album
"One Cell In The Sea" July 17, 2007.
Her music is calming to listen to. Her first song on the album starts off with the hypnotic piano playing then comes the vocals. Her voice fits in with the piano because it's not your typical teen singer loud and angry such as Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, ect.
"One Cell In The Sea" July 17, 2007.
Her music is calming to listen to. Her first song on the album starts off with the hypnotic piano playing then comes the vocals. Her voice fits in with the piano because it's not your typical teen singer loud and angry such as Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, ect.
Each song has a great beat and can easily get stuck in your head. "You Picked Me" (number four on her album) is filled with tons of metaphors. The chorus goes:
Like an apple in a tree
hiding out behind the leaves
I was difficult to reach
but you picked me
Like a shell upon a beach
just another pretty piece
I was difficult to see
but you picked me
hiding out behind the leaves
I was difficult to reach
but you picked me
Like a shell upon a beach
just another pretty piece
I was difficult to see
but you picked me
She is talking about her relationship here and the metaphors create such a great picture of how she feels important by being picked.
Two songs later though it goes the complete opposite way with its message with the song "Almost Lover". This song talks about how she thought all these things but they couldn't be since he was only an almost lover " a hopeless dream and a luckless romance".
Her songs are very soothing to hear. I have placed this song in my player countless times to relax myself before I have to complete a challenging tasks. On the opposite spectrum this CD is great for a good cry.
Her website:
http://www.afinefrenzy.com/bio.aspx
and her myspace page:
http://www.myspace.com/afinefrenzy
Two songs later though it goes the complete opposite way with its message with the song "Almost Lover". This song talks about how she thought all these things but they couldn't be since he was only an almost lover " a hopeless dream and a luckless romance".
Her songs are very soothing to hear. I have placed this song in my player countless times to relax myself before I have to complete a challenging tasks. On the opposite spectrum this CD is great for a good cry.
Her website:
http://www.afinefrenzy.com/bio.aspx
and her myspace page:
http://www.myspace.com/afinefrenzy
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Adult's Chuck E Cheese
Who ever thought of the idea to create an adults version of Chuck E Cheese was a genius. What adult after a long day of work wouldn’t want to grab some food, drinks, and play arcade games?
This past Saturday a group of us decided we wanted to have a fun and different dinner. The idea of Dave and Busters was suggested and not a single nose was turned up.
All six of us arrived around 6:30 to the D&B off Mopac and Highway 183. As we walked into the room the energy and excitement was felt all around. On the bar area there was a football game playing and every few minutes you would hear the bar cheer or get upset at the TV.
We were promptly seated down near the kitchen doors at a round table so that we could easily talk with one another. Our waitress was at our table as soon as all of us were in our seats. She took our drink orders and away she went.
Around five minutes later our drinks arrived, we had one beer, one snow cone (Watermelon Pucker, Malibu rum, Three Olives Cherry vodka, blue Curacao, Sprite, and pomegranate syrup served over shaved ice), one cherry amaretto sour, one Redbull with coke, one Miller Lite, and four waters.
I tried the Snow cone and Redbull along with my cherry amaretto. The S.C. was amazing. I don’t usually like the coconut flavor of Malibu but this mixture didn’t bother me. The Redbull drink I was hesitant because I don’t drink soda. I tried this drink and was shocked because to me the flavor was just like a Rockstar.
We ordered our entrees and waited again for what seemed like ten minutes because our conversations were flowing like the conveyor-belt fans on the ceiling. Our food arrived; three burgers, one salad and two chicken tenders’ meals and no one had a complaint.
After our meals were done we hit the game floor with excitement and urge to compete.
Our groups split off into pairs, my partner and I first went to the air hockey table. The table was clear so we got to play right away to continue our A.H. rival.
After our first game, we ventured off to play some madden football and basketball shooting challenges. Then the competition really began as we played Time Crisis. The aims on the machine were off to where the player would be shooting at an object but the aim is two inches to the right.
We ended with Super Trivia, a game that challenges six players on various random facts. At this point all six of us had rejoined the group. Midway through our playing the computer for the game froze and we were stuck. With in seconds the repair guy came and our game was back on.
The night ended with this result: Scrumptious food + arcade games + wonderful company= a great way to relax after a long week.
This past Saturday a group of us decided we wanted to have a fun and different dinner. The idea of Dave and Busters was suggested and not a single nose was turned up.
All six of us arrived around 6:30 to the D&B off Mopac and Highway 183. As we walked into the room the energy and excitement was felt all around. On the bar area there was a football game playing and every few minutes you would hear the bar cheer or get upset at the TV.
We were promptly seated down near the kitchen doors at a round table so that we could easily talk with one another. Our waitress was at our table as soon as all of us were in our seats. She took our drink orders and away she went.
Around five minutes later our drinks arrived, we had one beer, one snow cone (Watermelon Pucker, Malibu rum, Three Olives Cherry vodka, blue Curacao, Sprite, and pomegranate syrup served over shaved ice), one cherry amaretto sour, one Redbull with coke, one Miller Lite, and four waters.
I tried the Snow cone and Redbull along with my cherry amaretto. The S.C. was amazing. I don’t usually like the coconut flavor of Malibu but this mixture didn’t bother me. The Redbull drink I was hesitant because I don’t drink soda. I tried this drink and was shocked because to me the flavor was just like a Rockstar.
We ordered our entrees and waited again for what seemed like ten minutes because our conversations were flowing like the conveyor-belt fans on the ceiling. Our food arrived; three burgers, one salad and two chicken tenders’ meals and no one had a complaint.
After our meals were done we hit the game floor with excitement and urge to compete.
Our groups split off into pairs, my partner and I first went to the air hockey table. The table was clear so we got to play right away to continue our A.H. rival.
After our first game, we ventured off to play some madden football and basketball shooting challenges. Then the competition really began as we played Time Crisis. The aims on the machine were off to where the player would be shooting at an object but the aim is two inches to the right.
We ended with Super Trivia, a game that challenges six players on various random facts. At this point all six of us had rejoined the group. Midway through our playing the computer for the game froze and we were stuck. With in seconds the repair guy came and our game was back on.
The night ended with this result: Scrumptious food + arcade games + wonderful company= a great way to relax after a long week.
We own the night
Friday night at the movies and the selections were skim. Seems that I have either seen way to many movies or there isn't anything that was too appealing out to see. Finally after 20 minutes my friend and I decided to go see We Own the Night.
We went to the movie theater in Barton Creek mall so the travel was a bit away from our usual theater and we were running late. We got into the mall finally and asked the cashier for the movie we wanted. I pulled out my credit card and the guy said their machine was down. I couldn't believe this.
We then had to run to the ATM in the middle of the mall to get some quick cash so we could actually watch a long awaited movie.
By the time we got into the movie the previews were done and so was the first 10 mins of the movie. So who knows what we missed.
The movie is based on two brothers who are on different ends of the tracks. One is a New York cop and the other is a club manager doing all sorts of drugs. The conflict arises when Joseph, Mark Wahlberg, raids Bobbie's, Joaquin Phoenix, club. This upsets the cousin of the owner and the problem begins.
Joseph doesn't get the information he wanted about the cousin and then worse gets shot in the check luckily missing his brain. This severely upsets his brother and the fight to make things right progresses.
Bobbie through out this whole film challenges himself on doing the right tasks and in turn affects his life. You can see that when he is challenging his ways his attire as well as attitudes towards things changes.
I left the movie wanting more closer. The movie ending seeming as though it wasn't the ending and that they planed on making a sequel. If they do plan to make a sequel the ratings and reviews will not be respectable.
We went to the movie theater in Barton Creek mall so the travel was a bit away from our usual theater and we were running late. We got into the mall finally and asked the cashier for the movie we wanted. I pulled out my credit card and the guy said their machine was down. I couldn't believe this.
We then had to run to the ATM in the middle of the mall to get some quick cash so we could actually watch a long awaited movie.
By the time we got into the movie the previews were done and so was the first 10 mins of the movie. So who knows what we missed.
The movie is based on two brothers who are on different ends of the tracks. One is a New York cop and the other is a club manager doing all sorts of drugs. The conflict arises when Joseph, Mark Wahlberg, raids Bobbie's, Joaquin Phoenix, club. This upsets the cousin of the owner and the problem begins.
Joseph doesn't get the information he wanted about the cousin and then worse gets shot in the check luckily missing his brain. This severely upsets his brother and the fight to make things right progresses.
Bobbie through out this whole film challenges himself on doing the right tasks and in turn affects his life. You can see that when he is challenging his ways his attire as well as attitudes towards things changes.
I left the movie wanting more closer. The movie ending seeming as though it wasn't the ending and that they planed on making a sequel. If they do plan to make a sequel the ratings and reviews will not be respectable.
Sunday Sports
Sundays are good for a lot of things. Sleeping in early, doing homework, taking naps, and the ever so popular watch sports.
This past Sunday was one of those great sports watching days. There were three events that were a must see: Texans vs Miami, Red Sox vs Angels , and Yankees vs Indians.
Texans were first and a great game to start off my Sunday sport madness. The game was filled with excitement. During the first half the Texans were down and trying to get their plays down. Matt Schaub, the quarterback, tends to do plays that runs the ball a lot, and that seemed to be working.
The second half started and the Texans were still eager and ready to get their victory. The game was tight through out the whole second half. Both teams kept pushing. It wasn't till the final seconds when Kris Brown, Texans Kicker, helped push the Texans into victory lane with his 57 yard field goal (this being his third longer than 50 yard field goal making NFL history.)
My next game came on right after the Texans game. The Red Sox game came on. It was the third game in round one of the all star series. Red sox had won the past two games and if they won this game it would be a clean swept onto round two of the series. The game started and sure enough by the 9th inning the Red Sox had a clean victory over the Angels winning round one by 8 runs.
The final game came on after the Sox game and it was none other than their rivals the New York Yankees. This was their third game as well but they were on the opposite side of the spectrum. They were down by two and needed to win the next three games to win their round one.
They started off and it didn't look good the Yankees were down and didn't look like they would catch up. In the fifth inning however former Red Sox player, Johnny Damon, hit a home run to bring in himself and two other runners. After this hit the batters felt more confident. They came to the plate swinging and were able to get their victory with Yankees 8 and Indians 4.
My sports left me Sunday feeling fulfilled. All my teams won and gave an exciting fight for their victory.
This past Sunday was one of those great sports watching days. There were three events that were a must see: Texans vs Miami, Red Sox vs Angels , and Yankees vs Indians.
Texans were first and a great game to start off my Sunday sport madness. The game was filled with excitement. During the first half the Texans were down and trying to get their plays down. Matt Schaub, the quarterback, tends to do plays that runs the ball a lot, and that seemed to be working.
The second half started and the Texans were still eager and ready to get their victory. The game was tight through out the whole second half. Both teams kept pushing. It wasn't till the final seconds when Kris Brown, Texans Kicker, helped push the Texans into victory lane with his 57 yard field goal (this being his third longer than 50 yard field goal making NFL history.)
My next game came on right after the Texans game. The Red Sox game came on. It was the third game in round one of the all star series. Red sox had won the past two games and if they won this game it would be a clean swept onto round two of the series. The game started and sure enough by the 9th inning the Red Sox had a clean victory over the Angels winning round one by 8 runs.
The final game came on after the Sox game and it was none other than their rivals the New York Yankees. This was their third game as well but they were on the opposite side of the spectrum. They were down by two and needed to win the next three games to win their round one.
They started off and it didn't look good the Yankees were down and didn't look like they would catch up. In the fifth inning however former Red Sox player, Johnny Damon, hit a home run to bring in himself and two other runners. After this hit the batters felt more confident. They came to the plate swinging and were able to get their victory with Yankees 8 and Indians 4.
My sports left me Sunday feeling fulfilled. All my teams won and gave an exciting fight for their victory.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Summermoon Coffee Bar
Summermoon coffee bar has changed my view on coffee. When I was in high school I would drink coffee to get the caffeine high but never to just drink it for the flavor. I hated the coffee flavor and didn't want anything to do with it until last week.
I had driven past Summermoon a few times and wondered what this little place was like. So last Thursday I was a bit early to my internship and decided to go in and try this mom and pop shop.
The environment was very cozy with it's moderate light and festive furniture. I walked to the counter and since I wasn't a coffee drinker I asked the employees for their suggestions on a coffee that tastes great but you don't fully get the coffee taste.
Right away both employees suggested the Summermoon Lattee. I followed there suggestions and went for the single Summermoon Lattee.
When I received my coffee I held it waiting to take the first sip till I was out of sight and in my car in case I didn't enjoy it. To my surprise it was one of the most amazing new drinks I have had in a long time.
The coffee was smooth and creamy rich as I drank the big gulps to finish within minutes. I didn't taste the coffee until a bit after I had finished the whole lattee and by then it was all worth it.
I went back the next day and enjoyed another cup of coffee as well as try their paninies with my boyfriend. He got a different panini and they were both scrumptious. I ordered the turkey and muenster cheese, he ordered a roast beef with Colby jack cheese ( they were both served on a grilled croissant.)
My panini had needed some pesto or maybe just plain mayo due to its dryness. The flavor of the cheese and turkey was all their but I wanted more flavor. The roast beef panini contained the perfect amount of flavor. The Colby was rich and made this sandwich not need sauce in any way.
After eating our paninies we sat and enjoyed the peaceful environment. The music was playing very low and the people all around were on their computers and doing work or just relaxing.
We left wanting to go back again the next day for more amazing coffee. (Which we ended up doing!)
For more information: http://www.woodfiredcoffee.com/
I had driven past Summermoon a few times and wondered what this little place was like. So last Thursday I was a bit early to my internship and decided to go in and try this mom and pop shop.
The environment was very cozy with it's moderate light and festive furniture. I walked to the counter and since I wasn't a coffee drinker I asked the employees for their suggestions on a coffee that tastes great but you don't fully get the coffee taste.
Right away both employees suggested the Summermoon Lattee. I followed there suggestions and went for the single Summermoon Lattee.
When I received my coffee I held it waiting to take the first sip till I was out of sight and in my car in case I didn't enjoy it. To my surprise it was one of the most amazing new drinks I have had in a long time.
The coffee was smooth and creamy rich as I drank the big gulps to finish within minutes. I didn't taste the coffee until a bit after I had finished the whole lattee and by then it was all worth it.
I went back the next day and enjoyed another cup of coffee as well as try their paninies with my boyfriend. He got a different panini and they were both scrumptious. I ordered the turkey and muenster cheese, he ordered a roast beef with Colby jack cheese ( they were both served on a grilled croissant.)
My panini had needed some pesto or maybe just plain mayo due to its dryness. The flavor of the cheese and turkey was all their but I wanted more flavor. The roast beef panini contained the perfect amount of flavor. The Colby was rich and made this sandwich not need sauce in any way.
After eating our paninies we sat and enjoyed the peaceful environment. The music was playing very low and the people all around were on their computers and doing work or just relaxing.
We left wanting to go back again the next day for more amazing coffee. (Which we ended up doing!)
For more information: http://www.woodfiredcoffee.com/
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
It's all about finale's
Many people watch shows just for the finale's. Its a very common theme through out the country but is finale's really where it's at.
Personally, I feel that to truly appreciate a finale and understand how the show is working you need to watch a show at the get go. For instance take some of the popular reality contest T.V. shows.
1. American idol-who honestly (besides huge fans like my mother) watches this show from the very first show and keeps up with it. Most people watch the show towards the end to see who the final four are. However, most people watch the finale because they can see the progress and also see the winner on live television.
2. America's next top model- I'm a victim of watching this at the very end where they show four shows in a row to lead up to the season finale. I honestly am more interested in watching the best models show what they are made of than watching the drama that leads up to the winner.
3. Top Chef- This is a show that I have been watching from the beginning. I have grown to appreciate chefs and hate other chefs. I feel for when certain characters are excited and then when certain characters aren't.
So why are finale's the main part of a show that gets the highest rating?
What makes a finale so special to you?
Personally, I feel that to truly appreciate a finale and understand how the show is working you need to watch a show at the get go. For instance take some of the popular reality contest T.V. shows.
1. American idol-who honestly (besides huge fans like my mother) watches this show from the very first show and keeps up with it. Most people watch the show towards the end to see who the final four are. However, most people watch the finale because they can see the progress and also see the winner on live television.
2. America's next top model- I'm a victim of watching this at the very end where they show four shows in a row to lead up to the season finale. I honestly am more interested in watching the best models show what they are made of than watching the drama that leads up to the winner.
3. Top Chef- This is a show that I have been watching from the beginning. I have grown to appreciate chefs and hate other chefs. I feel for when certain characters are excited and then when certain characters aren't.
So why are finale's the main part of a show that gets the highest rating?
What makes a finale so special to you?
Monday, October 1, 2007
Children's Birthday Parties
Chuck E Cheese can be an adventure for a five year old birthday party. Even through the idea of having a birthday party here has been around since I was five years old; the excitement is still the same. The environment still smells of the cheese and pepperoni pizza cooking in the back room and children running around from game to game.
When you walk into the restaurant you must check in at the podium to get a glow in the dark stamp so that your children won’t leave with another person. Safety seems to be an important goal to this establishment.
After you walk into the restaurant you have the option to order food and tokens or just sit down with the party you are attending. We went straight to our party group.
We went towards the back of the seating area to where the Chuck E Cheese robotic gang would be (if it was around ten years ago). We received our tokens and set out for the game floor after checking in with the host.
The first thing the children, I took, wanted to do was ride the green jeep as well as the helicopter. It was nice since everything the children wanted to do was only one token, unlike other arcade places where it costs two quarters or such. This makes playing the games easy for children of all ages because they can just place one token into the slot and go.
After taking two turns on the jeep our parties name was called to go sit down and enjoy some fresh mouth watering pizza and cake. The children slowly flock to the table to sit and wait for what seems like forever to a four year old was really about five minutes in adult world.
As the sweet aroma of cheese, bread, garlic, and marinara enters our area the children as well as the adults mouths water to get their teeth into the cheese pizza. The children were eager with anticipation of the pizza that they could hardly sit in their seats. The pizza finally got to their plates but they had to wait for a few minutes for the fresh out of the oven pizza to cool so their tongues wouldn’t get burnt.
The pizza was eaten and then came what every birthday party must have, a birthday cake. Chuck E Cheese provides their own cake if needed. The cake our party received was chocolate with a sugary whipped vanilla frosting over the double-layered circular cake.
The children as well as the parents ate the cake in under ten minutes with out a crumb on their plates. The sugar rush hit and the kids wanted to go back out on the game floor to run around.
We hit the floor again and played some actual arcade games. There were several games that were broken down but all in all the party was a hit and the children left talking about the party for the entire night and next morning.
When you walk into the restaurant you must check in at the podium to get a glow in the dark stamp so that your children won’t leave with another person. Safety seems to be an important goal to this establishment.
After you walk into the restaurant you have the option to order food and tokens or just sit down with the party you are attending. We went straight to our party group.
We went towards the back of the seating area to where the Chuck E Cheese robotic gang would be (if it was around ten years ago). We received our tokens and set out for the game floor after checking in with the host.
The first thing the children, I took, wanted to do was ride the green jeep as well as the helicopter. It was nice since everything the children wanted to do was only one token, unlike other arcade places where it costs two quarters or such. This makes playing the games easy for children of all ages because they can just place one token into the slot and go.
After taking two turns on the jeep our parties name was called to go sit down and enjoy some fresh mouth watering pizza and cake. The children slowly flock to the table to sit and wait for what seems like forever to a four year old was really about five minutes in adult world.
As the sweet aroma of cheese, bread, garlic, and marinara enters our area the children as well as the adults mouths water to get their teeth into the cheese pizza. The children were eager with anticipation of the pizza that they could hardly sit in their seats. The pizza finally got to their plates but they had to wait for a few minutes for the fresh out of the oven pizza to cool so their tongues wouldn’t get burnt.
The pizza was eaten and then came what every birthday party must have, a birthday cake. Chuck E Cheese provides their own cake if needed. The cake our party received was chocolate with a sugary whipped vanilla frosting over the double-layered circular cake.
The children as well as the parents ate the cake in under ten minutes with out a crumb on their plates. The sugar rush hit and the kids wanted to go back out on the game floor to run around.
We hit the floor again and played some actual arcade games. There were several games that were broken down but all in all the party was a hit and the children left talking about the party for the entire night and next morning.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Rags Update
As the weeks have gone by the St. Edwards University cafeteria is slowly getting back to the Ragsdale that most have grown to love.
Since we finished our contract with Arimark, St. Edwards had to find a new company fast over this summer. Bon Appetit stepped up to the challenge with only a month in a half to prepare before the fall semester started. This new company had a lot on their plates since they weren't use to how the cafeteria was ran before them.
Ragsdale before had several stations that were open all day such as salad bar, pizza, and the grill. And the best thing about it was that if the cafeteria was closed you could order your food from the coffee shop (only items that were sold at the grill). Also, the supply of breakfast cereals to be found was a perfect snack when ever you missed that breakfast meal in the morning.
I think that Bon Appetit started to realize the importance of having the stations open due to the change in how the cafeteria is being run now. The cafeteria presently doesn't close down during eating periods and stays open but only certain stations. Another thing, is that the stations are starting to open a bit before five for the dinner crowd it seems (Plus for them!).
Since everything is becoming more settled in the cafeteria the food is starting to show its true quality. The pasta line is filled with two different types of pasta with a vegetarian dish and a meat eaters dish. The pizza is more fresh than before with less grease to affect the stomach. The China section has three choices as well for making their rice bowls containing two meats and one tofu.
The salad bar has out done the old bar by having multiple options for creating the perfect salad, ie. chicken, bacon, multiple veggies, etc. The only down fall to the salad bar is still that it has constantly the melon fruits. Why can't we just have a berry mix with out the melons? ( I know its expensive but at the rates were being charged and the students actually pay for it, I'm sure the students would pay for a berry salad.)
Hopefully, over the weeks Bon Appetit will keep adapting to ways that the old Ragsdale eaters are accustomed to but also keep their same healthy ways and good service.
Since we finished our contract with Arimark, St. Edwards had to find a new company fast over this summer. Bon Appetit stepped up to the challenge with only a month in a half to prepare before the fall semester started. This new company had a lot on their plates since they weren't use to how the cafeteria was ran before them.
Ragsdale before had several stations that were open all day such as salad bar, pizza, and the grill. And the best thing about it was that if the cafeteria was closed you could order your food from the coffee shop (only items that were sold at the grill). Also, the supply of breakfast cereals to be found was a perfect snack when ever you missed that breakfast meal in the morning.
I think that Bon Appetit started to realize the importance of having the stations open due to the change in how the cafeteria is being run now. The cafeteria presently doesn't close down during eating periods and stays open but only certain stations. Another thing, is that the stations are starting to open a bit before five for the dinner crowd it seems (Plus for them!).
Since everything is becoming more settled in the cafeteria the food is starting to show its true quality. The pasta line is filled with two different types of pasta with a vegetarian dish and a meat eaters dish. The pizza is more fresh than before with less grease to affect the stomach. The China section has three choices as well for making their rice bowls containing two meats and one tofu.
The salad bar has out done the old bar by having multiple options for creating the perfect salad, ie. chicken, bacon, multiple veggies, etc. The only down fall to the salad bar is still that it has constantly the melon fruits. Why can't we just have a berry mix with out the melons? ( I know its expensive but at the rates were being charged and the students actually pay for it, I'm sure the students would pay for a berry salad.)
Hopefully, over the weeks Bon Appetit will keep adapting to ways that the old Ragsdale eaters are accustomed to but also keep their same healthy ways and good service.
Monday, September 24, 2007
I'm not a player...
“I’m not a player, I’m not a pimp, I’m a pickup Artist” were some of the famous last words spoken by tonight’s “Pickup Artist’s” winner.
After eight weeks of training it all paid off for one man. The season finale of the "Pickup Artist" aired this evening,
The season started out with eight men going through challenges to prove they were able to master trades of picking up woman. A few of the challenges before the final two were; reading to little girls, remembering lingerie woman were wearing and shopping for it, and moving woman from one place to another (instant date). The men had to complete these challenges each week in order to not be eliminated.
The final two were Brady, a shy man who was scared of intimacy till show seven where he hooked up with an exotic dancer, and Kosmo, freezes up around woman.
These two guys were taken to a bar and were told to look around and see if there were any guys who resembled themselves 8 weeks ago. They found two lucky men in the bar and for their final challenge they had seven hours to train and groom them to attempt to pick up girls in a bar. The team who successfully completed this challenge would win and earn the title of “Master Pickup Artist”.
Both teams were successful at the challenge. One student however, learned more from his teacher and was able to gain a phone number. This in turn gained the victory for Kosmo!
After eight weeks of training it all paid off for one man. The season finale of the "Pickup Artist" aired this evening,
The season started out with eight men going through challenges to prove they were able to master trades of picking up woman. A few of the challenges before the final two were; reading to little girls, remembering lingerie woman were wearing and shopping for it, and moving woman from one place to another (instant date). The men had to complete these challenges each week in order to not be eliminated.
The final two were Brady, a shy man who was scared of intimacy till show seven where he hooked up with an exotic dancer, and Kosmo, freezes up around woman.
These two guys were taken to a bar and were told to look around and see if there were any guys who resembled themselves 8 weeks ago. They found two lucky men in the bar and for their final challenge they had seven hours to train and groom them to attempt to pick up girls in a bar. The team who successfully completed this challenge would win and earn the title of “Master Pickup Artist”.
Both teams were successful at the challenge. One student however, learned more from his teacher and was able to gain a phone number. This in turn gained the victory for Kosmo!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Dell Inspiron 5150
Computers are such an every day thing that people don't stop and think about what if something were to happen to my computer, how much would I suffer?
Well this Sunday while I was attempting to complete some homework my computer decided it was time to make Christina upset. He decided we should place up a blue screen that doesn't explain why it isn't working.
I played along with the-blue-screen-of-death game for a little while and then just shut it down and turned on the television. After one show was over I decided to try to win at the game of computer shut-down. Unfortunately, after two hours of being on the phone with Dell I am still computerless and frustrated!
And this is why I hate my DELL COMPUTER!
1. I have had at least 8 or more motherboards within the past three in a half years of owning it.
2. It has crashed on me at least now twice when working on some important homework.
3. The Dell people can't seem to speak clear enough or don't understand what the problem could be (even though you explain to them its the same thing you had last time!)
4. Also to get a hold of a Dell representative it takes at least 20 - 30 minutes and while your waiting the music is boring and sometimes over blasted and along with that it also provides commercials on how you could get online to ask them your questions (now don't you think if your computer was working you would be online asking them your questions instead of dealing with them over the phone!)
Apparently I am not alone when i state my comment about hating this computer! http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/dell-inspiron-5150/4852-3121_7-30418693.html?tag=uoavrg (This site is all about how users feel about their Inspiron 5150)
So any suggestions on any good computers; brand and model besides a Mac that wont crap out on me?
Well this Sunday while I was attempting to complete some homework my computer decided it was time to make Christina upset. He decided we should place up a blue screen that doesn't explain why it isn't working.
I played along with the-blue-screen-of-death game for a little while and then just shut it down and turned on the television. After one show was over I decided to try to win at the game of computer shut-down. Unfortunately, after two hours of being on the phone with Dell I am still computerless and frustrated!
And this is why I hate my DELL COMPUTER!
1. I have had at least 8 or more motherboards within the past three in a half years of owning it.
2. It has crashed on me at least now twice when working on some important homework.
3. The Dell people can't seem to speak clear enough or don't understand what the problem could be (even though you explain to them its the same thing you had last time!)
4. Also to get a hold of a Dell representative it takes at least 20 - 30 minutes and while your waiting the music is boring and sometimes over blasted and along with that it also provides commercials on how you could get online to ask them your questions (now don't you think if your computer was working you would be online asking them your questions instead of dealing with them over the phone!)
Apparently I am not alone when i state my comment about hating this computer! http://reviews.cnet.com/laptops/dell-inspiron-5150/4852-3121_7-30418693.html?tag=uoavrg (This site is all about how users feel about their Inspiron 5150)
So any suggestions on any good computers; brand and model besides a Mac that wont crap out on me?
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Rags..Is new really better?
The new rags has people talking. People have their complaints where as others are all for the new rags. I am one of the people who isn't fully convinced it is better.
A few Negatives are:
1. The "blue plate" is the same lunch and dinner
2. Rice bowls- the rice is sometimes undercooked
3. Sandwiches- there was a bug found in the lettuce
4. Fruit for majority is always melons
I know melons are cheaper but some people are allergic
5. Only open certain hours (even the seating area!)
A few positives though are:
1. Salad bar has a lot of variety
2. Pizza's aren't as greasy
3. Soup's have more variety
So I'm still pondering is the new Rags really all that much better?
A few Negatives are:
1. The "blue plate" is the same lunch and dinner
2. Rice bowls- the rice is sometimes undercooked
3. Sandwiches- there was a bug found in the lettuce
4. Fruit for majority is always melons
I know melons are cheaper but some people are allergic
5. Only open certain hours (even the seating area!)
A few positives though are:
1. Salad bar has a lot of variety
2. Pizza's aren't as greasy
3. Soup's have more variety
So I'm still pondering is the new Rags really all that much better?
Monday, September 10, 2007
Running in the morning
There are many advantages to running in the early morning at Town Lake.
1. The weather is a lot cooler and wont get hot as fast.
2. Not as crowded where as if you ran later on the paths get crowded and hard to weave through people.
3. There is a man on the path that plays his guitar as well as sings as the runners pass giving them encouragement.
This man has been on the trails for as long as I can remember. He has moved places but he is always there around seven 6:45-7:00A.M. till who knows how long. His encouragement helps runners as they pass him to keep pushing themselves harder and not give up!
4. Great way to start your morning, and you wont have to worry about running at a later time when the heat index is high
These are just a few good reasons for why it is beneficial to run in the mornings at Town Lake!
1. The weather is a lot cooler and wont get hot as fast.
2. Not as crowded where as if you ran later on the paths get crowded and hard to weave through people.
3. There is a man on the path that plays his guitar as well as sings as the runners pass giving them encouragement.
This man has been on the trails for as long as I can remember. He has moved places but he is always there around seven 6:45-7:00A.M. till who knows how long. His encouragement helps runners as they pass him to keep pushing themselves harder and not give up!
4. Great way to start your morning, and you wont have to worry about running at a later time when the heat index is high
These are just a few good reasons for why it is beneficial to run in the mornings at Town Lake!
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Dinner for two
Yesterday evening my boyfriend and I went out to dinner at P.F. Chang. We went here to this restaurant because it has sentimental meaning to us.
When we were traveling down town to get to the restaurant we encountered no traffic due to the UT game still going on (which came in handy since usually I avoid driving down town at any cost past 5 p.m.!). We found a parking spot in the lot kiddy corner to the restaurant which was only six dollars.
We walked into the restaurant around 8:30 and were seated right away in a booth. Our waitress came shortly after we sat down to ask for our drink order. We looked at the menu and noticed that it had been changed since the last time we had been there. The print was smaller but the organization of the menu seemed to be better.
When the waitress returned we were still unsure of what we wanted to order. So she left us be to try to decide. She took a while to come back to us but we were finally able to order.
Our food came it seemed within minutes and was delicious. We had ordered Mu Shu Chicken and Dali Chicken. The Mu Shu could use a bit of flavor but with just the right amount of sauce it would work. As for the Dali Chicken you had to watch out for the peppers. If you avoided the peppers the food was the perfect blend of spices and you didn't have to down too much water.
The atmosphere was absolutely wonderful and we were able to contain a conversation the entire meal. The bar was crowded with people watching the games on the T.V.s and the people around us seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as we were.
Overall the P.F. Changs down town is a wonderful place to go on a romantic date or just a nice dinner with friends/family.
When we were traveling down town to get to the restaurant we encountered no traffic due to the UT game still going on (which came in handy since usually I avoid driving down town at any cost past 5 p.m.!). We found a parking spot in the lot kiddy corner to the restaurant which was only six dollars.
We walked into the restaurant around 8:30 and were seated right away in a booth. Our waitress came shortly after we sat down to ask for our drink order. We looked at the menu and noticed that it had been changed since the last time we had been there. The print was smaller but the organization of the menu seemed to be better.
When the waitress returned we were still unsure of what we wanted to order. So she left us be to try to decide. She took a while to come back to us but we were finally able to order.
Our food came it seemed within minutes and was delicious. We had ordered Mu Shu Chicken and Dali Chicken. The Mu Shu could use a bit of flavor but with just the right amount of sauce it would work. As for the Dali Chicken you had to watch out for the peppers. If you avoided the peppers the food was the perfect blend of spices and you didn't have to down too much water.
The atmosphere was absolutely wonderful and we were able to contain a conversation the entire meal. The bar was crowded with people watching the games on the T.V.s and the people around us seemed to be enjoying themselves as much as we were.
Overall the P.F. Changs down town is a wonderful place to go on a romantic date or just a nice dinner with friends/family.
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