Life is funny sometimes... Heck, it's funny all the time! I laugh everyday, and I think that is vital to my personal happiness. There is a power in just smiling and having a good chuckle.
Thus, it is time to bring back the good ol' quote-a-thon that happened monthly(ish) on my page! Some of these are SUPER old... some are new. Either way, they're enjoyable and give you that little laugh you might need today. Well, those you understand....
You be welcome, girls and boys.... You be most welcome.
"I would say yes to him on Tinder..." - Lauren
"Everyone deserves a naked room in their house... or on their porch..." - Linze
"Their breakfast better to be good. If it's just continental, I'm going to say, 'Where are my damn eggs!?'" - Linze... said rather casually.
"WONDERBOY!" - Tim (Shouted at Bobby Redford @ my Westminster Graduation)
"Remember when you made good movies..." - Jake (said under his breathe to Bobby Redford...)
"He's no Trey Songz..." - Justin (said ABOUT good ol' Redford's speech at graduation)
"That's my grandpa.... grandma." - Linze
"Cause Gesthemene was like, a really big deal." - Paige
"I wish you were a unicorn." - Ally "I do too - everyday." - Courtney "Then I could ride you and play with you." - Ally "Yes. Yes, you could." - Courtney
"Why is she so happy about the garbage?!" - Ally (said very dryly... hilarious.)
"Yours looks like a picture... mine looks like a video game!" - Linze
"Marry a bean!" - Eliza "Marry a STRANGER!" - Eliza/Ally "Wait! If you don't find a husband or wife, you could marry Courtney!" - Ally
"You're not gonna marry anybody." - Ally "Sad truth." - Courtney
"Do you like to dance?!" - Linze "It wears me out." - Eliza "You LOVE to talk!" - Linze "Seems like YOU love to talk!" - Eliza (She's a feisty one!)
"The final frontier - To go where no man has gone before..." - Star Trek "To be ridiculously good-looking? Check!" - Linze to my mom...
"People always like the stuff when I swear." - Spencer "Well, let's be real about the content too!" - Linze (regarding accidentally going to Colorado...)
"Shut up! How does she still have a calling?!" - Courtney
"I could squat you!" - Linze
"These are like vague Facebook status updates..." - Courtney about testimony meeting :)
"You two go together - Bam!" - Miss S (me), putting students into groups "We 'Bammed" already though!" - A student.... who got rather embarrassed
*We were all in teary laughter pretty fast*
"I like a really manly man... who just wants to ravage me!" - Paige
"Are you destiny's child?" - Courtney
"Is that what blurred lines is about?" - Courtney
"Let me see your snap-chat! Can we snap-chat that one boy?" - Eliza "Spencer?" - Linze "No." - Eliza "Isaac?" - Linze "Is he the one with no shirts?" - Eliza "Yep." - Linze
*Looking at our snap-chat list from the night* "That's a lot of Isaac...." - Eliza
"I bet you're a great runner!" - Linze "That's a stereotype " - Hilma "I meant cause you're skinny." - Linze "Oh..." - Hilma (She be black.)
"He's also Hispanic." - Court "Isn't he Filopino?" - Spence "Well, he's not white." - Court
"It's like a blast to your vag!" - Nicole
Well, there ya go. Enjoy! *muah*
Song of the Day: LOVE this song... I want to cover this song! Here is Katy Perry with "Unconditionally." Enjoy!!!
I've had four friends share this video over the day, so I think I should probably pass it along too... must be that good (spoiler: It is! The whole series seems awesome...). :)
I was talking to a friend today about this very topic and wrote her this note via facebook just this afternoon (before watching the video):
"It really is unfortunate how some men treat women. [I need to add now, or how some women treat women...] I feel sorry for them and the value that they hold in the size, weight, look, and appearance of a woman. They miss out on a lot of other important facets that create an entire human being and a DAUGHTER OF GOD. I know they're "wired differently," but it's sad... It's a little pathetic, and it's unfortunate for them. We are SO much more than our bodies.
You are an amazing person, with a good heart and vast intelligence. Not to mention, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. Remember that you are worth more than the value he is placing on you, and that his opinion is invalid. The only opinions that matter are yours and your Heavenly Father's. I recognize that is hard to remember when you're hurting, but just know you should feel sorry for HIM for letting you go over shallowness and his own insecurity. What a messed-up mind-set.... He's going to wind up very unhappy.
You're amazing - keep at it. You don't need to lose weight for anyone but YOU - remember that right now. Do what will make YOU sincerely happy, and don't do it for anyone else. Because YOU are enough."
... And for once, I know with 100% certainty that I'm right....
YOU are enough. You ARE enough. You are ENOUGH.
On a non-religious note, whether you believe in a higher power or not, this applies... You are loved and worth everything in the world you desire. On a more religious note, I am so thankful that I know I have a Father in Heaven who lives and loves me. I am thankful that I know of my divine heritage and capabilities - and that I am divinity in motion (not to quote MJ, but really... RIP, brotha). We are all worth so much more than we realize.... and if someone says differently, they're a fool. Straight up, a fool.
"Wherever you are, whatever the circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you with an infinite love. Just think of it! You are known and remembered by the most majestic, powerful and glorious Being in the universe. You are loved by the King of infinite space and everlasting time. He who created and knows the stars knows you and your name.”
- Dieter F. Uchtdorf
In the words of Lion King (although not my original intention): Remember who YOU are.... and in doing so, help those around you remember who THEY are. *muah*
Song of the Day: This is one of my all-time faves, and ties right into what we're talking about here.... It was arranged by friend of mine, Stephanie Maybe, and written by one of her friends, Nicole Sheahan. The song is called, "I Am His Daughter." Enjoy!
It's July already. JULY. Where in the heavens did June go?
I know that June held a lot for me and I accomplished some major goals, as well as checked off some huge things from my Summer List 2013. I graduated from Westminster College with my Masters and landed my first teaching job a month and a half before graduation teaching half English and half Theater at Alta High School. Yea, if you didn't know I am hired to teach full-time English and then was asked this past week to teach part-time English and part-time Theater (the beginning Theater I & II classes), creating a full-time position. I am SO excited! I will be helping with the after-school program and even directing the Spring production of The Giver - SUPER stoked about that! It's gonna be good...
Also in June, I went skydiving and saw the "delicate arch" for the first time. I took a trip to LA with my two best friends where we took a beach day, went to Disneyland, and saw the Hollywood Bowl pre-night rehearsal with Aerosmith (AH-MAE-ZING). In fact, I think I should share some pictures from the experience:
Right off the flight, catching the LA sunset!
A Day in Disney!
Our FAVORITE ride!!!
We're tacky.... We know.
Drivin' around LA together.... Yours truly was the driver for this vacay and I must say, I maneuvered quite well through LA. It was not the first time at this rodeo.
The Hollywood Bowl! A concert for about 50 people in a stadium holding 18,000+ normally!
Chillin' outside the LDS Redlands Temple
Beach Day!!!
A night on the town for clubbin'! I lost my ID and credit card while in LA
(NOT fun, and I felt terrible for making Court and Spence handle that - they were champion best friends... even when I burst into tears. Yes, I did burst into tears back at the hotel room, randomly an hour later.)
June was fabulous... seriously, a great start to my summer! Something that made it even better was when my brother and little niece, Zoey, came to UT to visit! I was SO excited to see them and spend time hanging out with them. I simply wish that Cami would have been able to come too! I love that girl... :) Here are some pictures from that amazing week:
Jurassic Park in 3D and World War Z in 3D the next day - Yay for movies!
Hipster Night. We liked it before it was cool to like hipster night...
Playin' with my adorable niece... freakin' love this girl and her babbling, sing-songy self.
June was amazing.... Here is to an even more triumphant July! Bring it on, summer 2013. *muah*
Song of the Day: OBSESSED with this song... I heard it in LA first and Shazamed the junk out of it. Here is Lorde with "Royals." SUCH a cool, smooth song. Enjoy!
Recently I had the chance to go down to Moab (which was GORGEOUS, FYI) with some of my best friends to check something off my bucket-list. You may call me crazy... You may call me bold... Either way is fine by me. Two weekends ago, I went SKYDIVING.
Yep - you read that right! Skydiving... It was exhilarating and fresh. It was adventurous and freeing. It was a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Well, except I could go again and again and make it a multiple-in-a-lifetime experience. Honestly, I loved it! I felt fairly calm on the ride up - just a little squished - and wasn't even nervous. I was slightly nervous the day before and pulling into the airport that morning... but it vanished as we filled out the waiver and got prepped to jump. It didn't even feel real in all honesty... I don't think it fully set what I was doing till I took the initial dive and started to plummet to the ground.
Free-falling is amazing - You just float in a way... float with a little more force on ya. After a good chunk of time "floating," my tandem jump-buddy (Jimmy) pulled the rip-cord to unleash the parachute. Everyone said it hurts when you feel the pull between your legs where the harness yanks the crap out of you... but I was fine. It pulled a little for a second, but it was no big deal and didn't really hurt - I was happy as a clam! He let me steer for a bit too (everyone gets to, but I felt legit) and that was by far my favorite part. Everyone tends to say free-falling is their favorite part, and that was awesome! However, call it my red personality and love to be in control of a situation, but I LOVED the moments controlling that parachute and our descent.... it was a little bit of heaven.
After the landing, I felt like I had completed something amazing off my check-list for life and just wanted to relive the moment. I don't necessarily feel a huge pull to go skydiving again, but I feel the need to complete the things I've put on my bucket-list. I think I got more pleasure from checking that off the list than the actual jump - though that was amazing! Is that sick?! Perhaps, but it's me.
Enjoy some more photo documentation:
Post-jump landing: "I'M GONNA BE REAL!"
So happy I went with these three as an "honorary" Minnick for the day! Turns out I have some cousins with the name Minnick, so.... ya never know! Haha.... This is us celebrating the jump with a post-breakfast meal - I adore these three!
*muah*
Song of the Day: This is a bit old-school, but it fits for the topic... Here is John Mayer and his version of "Free Fallin'." I love this version most.... Enjoy!
I adore Sundays... It's just the pick-up I need for the week for a few reasons. 1) Church meetings: In general, I just love to refocus on what's really important and my relationship with divinity.... I like to center back on the things I need to do to make me happier, healthier, and on the path to be the person I really want to become. 2) Time with Family: I love my family and am SO thankful for them in my life. I'm thankful to have them close-by... meaning, downstairs. I'm thankful for their listening ears, sound advice, awkward scenarios awesome or awesomely bad jokes, hugs, and their sarcastic wit they have all bestowed upon me over the years... I love my family. 3) Sunday naps: I love getting up and "go-go-going" with life... but I also LOVE a good nap. I mean, a hardcore nap wrapped in my down comforter is pretty much heaven to my body. I think heaven will quite literally have naps... even if they aren't needed, the option will be present. 4) Sunday runs OR walk-and-talks: I tend to love being outside on Sundays after my naps. I just LOVE being outdoors and feeling the fresh air, as well as the naturalistic connection to the universe Sounds cheesy? It is... but it's legit too. There's something to be said about seeing God's hand in nature and feeling peace in those moments. I love to take a slow jog around the neighborhood while listening to my music on quieter mode, or invite my mom or a friend to walk around the neighborhood with me while we talk about the week and how our lives are going. Sunday walk-and-talks are the BEST during the summer... don't be surprised if you see me out and about South Mountain, or if I call you to come walk-and-talk with me. I love walking...
I just love Sundays and the refreshing, reviving jump-start they give me for the week. I am a thankful girl. One other thought: A little spiritual thought for the day, as it IS Sunday... Luke 8:14 - And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. Do you go into the world with your focus on the right things? Do you produce positivity for the world and give back something of worth? Those that tend to fall to the wayside, or fall spiritually are those that put their focus into the wrong place. Those that tend to fall economically, socially, physically, or emotionally are those who put their focus into the wrong place.... especially if you know better. Go out there this week and make a change for the better - whatever that means to you, focus on the right things and spread that love to others around you. Work. Serve. Smile. Laugh. Listen. Give. Love. Bring forth fruit and help pull others from the thorns. *muah* Song of the Day: I adore this little band called Parachute. Maybe I've talked about them before... once or twice... or more. They have a new album coming out and here is one of their new songs, which I love - a lot. Here is "Heart Go Crazy." I put the regular and acoustic versions on here because I can't decide which I enjoy more.... it changes upon the day! Enjoy!
There is one other individual in particular who I feel like I should really say "Thank You!" to in my life right now... I have MANY good friends, and feel very blessed for all of you. I am beyond thankful for the hours and hours you spend talking with or hanging out with me. I'm grateful for the effort you put forth in being my friends and confidants. Eventually I will blog to ALL off you, but for now I need to say one additional thank you to this particular individual and my Heavenly Father for placing her in my life.
I just recently took the time to write about my bestie, Spence, and how he has been such a God-send for me in this past year of my life. I also feel the same about Miss Jaegs. She has been there for me through a lot in in the past six-ish months and always willing to spend time and effort on making me happy. I have found a true friend in her and know that I can count on her to always have my back. She is up for any crazy thing and helps me not look like too much of an idiot - haha! She is great because we can have hilarious conversations about frivolous things and then have serious, meaningful conversations about life, decisions, the gospel, and how we're feelings. It's the perfect friendship for me and she has sincerely grown to be a best friend. I know that I can always count on her... and that means the world to me.
Court - I look up to you A LOT! You have no idea the example you are to me each day. You have no idea how much I just want to be like you in so many ways. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life and for putting up with my bits of crazy. Especially since half the world thinks we're lesbians... well, maybe just your mom... and those people at the Sunday party... We LOVE men. A LOT - FYI world. :)
"In Utah, we do what we want!"
Again, I'm a blessed girl... I should be more thankful. *muah*
Song of the Day: This is for Court, so... Here is an anthem she fixed me up with awhile back. Here's Megan and Liz singing "Bad For Me." Love it. Enjoy!
Sometimes we write on our blogs to make a grand statement or announcement.
Sometimes we write in our blogs to express emotion or opinions.
Sometimes we write in our blogs to record an event in our lives.
Today, I write in my blog simply to express gratitude for the past few months. I've been a blessed girl. I can truly affirm that Heavenly Father knows WHAT we need WHEN we need it... I truly hate waiting on the Lord's timing (sorry - it's true), but I know He has it figured out for me better than I have if figured out for myself. This past few months, what have I really needed? A solid, genuine, trustworthy, loyal, and real best friend. I've just needed someone I can really 100% talk to about anything and who supports me and vice versa - no matter what. A friend that stands up for me... and makes fun of me when deserved (Habatchi - need I say more? Nope.). A friend who can make me laugh when I'm upset or calm me down when I'm being irrational. I have that right now, and that's pretty awesome.
In a hard time he says...
"I don't want to be human."
My reply... "Well, zombie is much less attractive... but I'll see what I can work out for ya."
Our convo on the matter... "Zombies are awesome. All they want is to eat brains. I could live with that. No heart = no pain." "And no excitement either... You'd cease to be witty!" "That sounds like a fair trade though." "Well, not for me. Sorry - I need a best friend. No zombie-life for you." "And that's why I wouldn't make the trade. You're welcome." "Thank you for not becoming a zombie for me."
How awesome are we? Yep - you're jealous. Sorry, but... thou shalt not covet.
Our friendship is pretty epic.
I have the best friend in the world. We understand each other in a way no one else can - on both sides. It's a bit scary how much we think alike.... We're not the exact same - we harbor differences and different opinions or interests. However, we THINK alike and just get each other without even using words. It's pretty amazing - and I just needed that right now.
*Dropping me off*
"Hey, well I'll see you..." "Just everyday for the rest of our lives." "Yep."
Sidenote: Can we take a normal picture?! I think not.
I'm a lucky girl. I just felt like I should say, THANK YOU. *muah*
P.S. Sorry if this at all seems somewhat sappy - I'm just grateful. I think it was fine till the song, right? Eh - oops. Hahaha....
P.S.S. Also, I think the song might be slightly about Jesus... I'm not in any way trying to steal the limelight - FYI. :)
Song of the Day: Without getting overly sappy, I think this song fit appropriately for this entry. Here's a little Boyce Avenue and Michael Jackson with "Will You Be There." Partake in both or whichever video makes your heart happy... Personally, well, I jam to both. Enjoy!
"I need people to back up so I can back-it-up!" - Linze
"I sustained them from the pool." - Linze
"We sustained them from the pool-pit!" - Spencer
*Crickets while I we alone died of laughter...*
I thought it was really funny. :)
"Have you heard of Temper Trap?" - Linze
"The temperature?" - Spence
"Temper Trap..." -Linze
*Taking his earphones out completely*
"I thought you said, 'Do you have the temperature app?!'"
"We can sing ALL of the Wicked soundtrack!" - Linze to Spencer
Together: "... AND MARK CAN'T STOP US!"
"Hell, Damn, Shiz, Bi%*@!" - She shall not be named, but it was CLASSIC! Clean that mouff out, girl! Hahahaha...
"This is dangerous...." *BOOM* - Spencer
The chair back collapsed.
"Be careful poolside!" - Mama Minnick
"I guess my butt just needs to go in the crevas..." -Spence
"This is slow as Moses!" - Spencer
".... Molasses???" - Linze
"You can't ribbon to this - you need whips!" - Spence
"I'm going to therapy before I come up there." - Spence
"Oh ok. Well, take all the time you need." - Linze
"By therapy, I mean tanning." - Spence
"I can do this ALL DAY!" - Derek and Cami... and now me... and all because of THIS:
"Man everything is quoted off pinterest.... God is Pinterest. Quote Him." - Yours Truly during RS...
"He didn't know how to spell commitment... That's why it's all jumbled together up there." - Court
"I'm not trying to be unspiritual, but all I could think of was damn and douche...." - Truth.
"Don't say my name! I know who I am!" - Leslie :)
"If you're a polygamist and you can't get married..." - Mark
"You could catch-up..." - Linze
"I'm sorry. I can't hear you over the 20 points that separate us!" - Natalie
"I'll be Hitler." - Ashleigh
"They have peanuts to munch on." - Michelle
"They have what?!" - Me.
"Do you want a ratio?!" - Spencer :) (I love that he's my best friend - hahahaha!)
"Maybe I could bloom here?!" - Linze
"Fine. You don't have to wear a suit." - Spencer
"Damn straight I don't have to wear a suit!...... Sorry. I get feisty on Sundays." - Um, me. :)
"First World Problems." - Spencer
Speaking of first world problems, check the video my brother sent me... I love him.
Well, that gave you a good glimpse into the last few weeks of my life... It's been a good month.
*muah*
Song of the Day: Well this should be SONGS of the day... Here are some of the best jam-out songs of 2012 in ONE! Yep - In an epic remix. Here is "Pop Danthology 2012" with a myriad of amazing jams - check it! (The video is REALLY cool too!)
It's typical for girls of my age(ish) and generation to get frustrated on the lack of male participation in the dating world. I often hear amazing women/girls say how they feel like they're on the right track and just waiting for the boys to step forward and "do something." They are doing everything they can to further themselves educationally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. However, they can only do so much before a guy has to step in and make a move. However, I had a few thoughts about this for all those older young, single adult girls out there...
1 - Perhaps it's about patience and faith for a different reason than talked about previously. We talk about how girls our age just need to "be more faithful" and really just have trust that everything will work out - I agree... and it will. However, perhaps it's not as much for US personally as it is for our children. This can go for the guys side as well when you're actively pursuing options and just not finding a match - In fact, all these points can apply to both sides... I'm just gearing thoughts more toward girls right now. We're going into a time that's getting progressively harder and harder... and maybe we need to understand patience so clearly in order to understand our children clearly. Perhaps our faith is tested so we can help our children when their faith is really tested... so we know how to walk them through the feelings and situations. At the same time it DOES help us grow, but it can then bless us in multiple ways.
2 - I was listening to a CES Fireside by Elder Bednar and his wife this morning as I got ready for the day... He talked about "not shrinking." He told a story about a couple who had just gotten married and then the man found out he was deep into having cancer. When Elder Bednar came to visit this couple, he felt impressed to ask him a bizarre question. "Do you have the faith to NOT be healed?" Sometimes I have the habit of saying, "Okay, Heavenly Father... I submit my will to you completely You can make what I want happen on your own time." That's not real, true submission. I thought it was, but I realized today it's not. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'm not the only person who has thought this way. True submission is saying, "Heavenly Father. I'm on your time table AND plan for me... If what I want doesn't happen, that's okay... because I know your plan for me it ultimately better." That is HARD! I tell you... especially for an independent, "I-can-do-this-myself" kind of girl. However, it's how true faith and submission works.
Thus, here is a dramatic example... I truly believe that I will get married and have kids in this life. I'm not concerned about it in the long run. However, I need to be able to say that I'm okay if that doesn't happen, because that will be the right thing. Therefore, I am okay with that in my life. I'm content to let the Lord completely lead me - no matter the outcome(s). Again - this is a dramatic example and I'm sure it'll work out in this life for me (and most of you), but I needed an example to relate to this point.
3 - A few weeks ago I saw Sheri Dew speak at an Institute Forum and she made this comment: "If all the prayer and righteous deeds in the world could get you married, I'd have been married awhile ago." This wasn't said in a cocky way in the least... It's more like a reality call to stop beating yourself up. If you're making good choices and doing good things, sometimes it's just not TIME yet. I hate that answer too. Haha! However, it makes me realize how aware HF is of my needs personally - He knows me SO well. He knows YOU too. You'll be thankful when the right when comes along, or you realize who the right one is, and you're still able to be with that person. You'll be so overwhelmingly thankful how it all went down - promise.
I know. I know. This all said from the single girl who has had very few boyfriends in her life... but I still think I can know and speak truth. Hear me out... It'll all work out. *muah*
Song of the Day: I went down to St. George with some friends for the Macklemore concert... So fun! Thus, here is a song from Macklemore and Ryan Lewis called "Gold" - it's one of my faves. I'll post pics of the trip later in the week. Enjoy!
Be still my aching heart.... I saw Ed Sheeran live in concert this Wednesday.
He was amazing - insanely, awesomely, incredibly amazing. I was struck by how good he was live - even better than his CD! He played with melodies, added verses and rap into his songs, and really entertained us as an audience. I loved his music before (seriously, he's one of my top 5 faves), but now I'm even more a lover of his melodic messages.... I adore Ed Sheeran.
Highlights:
- "Grade 8" - probably because it's my favorite, but he also added a new verse and linked his guitar, mics, and loop pedals to the back screen to visually show what he was playing. It was awesome.
- "The Parting Glass" - seriously gorgeous and haunting.... It's always been a fave of mine.
- Singing "U & I" at the top of my lungs with Courtney! It was pretty epic.
- "Small Bump" = SO moving... It's about an unborn baby on it's way and then there's a miscarriage. He had a heart monitor beeping in time with his song on the big screen, which was way creative and moving. Loved that one.
- Going with three of my favorite girls to see a man whose voice I adore! It was super fun and made me walk around in dream-land for at least a day...
Some great quote moments from the night: "Is this all about milk?" - Steph
"You don't need Shazam when you're sitting next to Sha-Linze." - Yours truly.
Oh, and as an added note, he had two great openers. First, a guy named Foy Vance from Ireland who I really enjoyed through MOST of his songs. He had a great voice. PLUS, a group I had NO idea was opening for who have been no my running playlist for quite a bit now - Rizzle Kicks! They came out and I was thinkin' "They sound familiar," but couldn't place it. We looked em' up and discovered it was them singing (they still hadn't said their names yet) I realized I needed to listen to the rest of their CD! Haha... They were SUPER entertaining! Not the best voices in the world perhaps, but really fun to watch. You should probably check out their song "Mama Do the Hump" and the dance they have with it - so classic. Also, see their song "Down With the Trumpets" below.
Thanks girls for a great night! Thanks Ed for making my month.
Who needs a Valentine when I have Ed's voice to sing to me??? Okay, okay - I'll take a Valentine listening to Ed with me. :) *muah*
Song of the Day: Here is a good, tender one... "Small Bump" LIVE in SLC, by Ed Sheeran!
My final day in Nicaragua was more of a sight-seeing, relaxing adventure - similar to Saturday's trip to Masaya and Granada. We had the opportunity to wake up a bit later that morning and have a chill morning till 10:30am... but a group of us (some LDS/Mormon and some not) opted to attend the local LDS services just a few blocks from the hotel. Our bus driver, Alberto, was kind enough to drive us around to find the church bldg. and then even attended the service with us. I didn't understand about 90% of the service, but the one thing I did understand was the spirit. It sounds cheesy, but I just love how the gospel is the same wherever you go. I knew exactly what was happening and why, and I could feel the overwhelming love that these members had for the gospel and for each other. I was really grateful that Cami got all the information together to make it possible for us to attend sacrament meeting.
Sidenote: It was fast and testimony meeting and they went a good few minutes over because people just kept getting up. Again, not so different from the states. :)
After the church service we slipped out and headed back to the hotel to change and head to Lake Apoyo (volcano lake) for the afternoon. If you ever want to experience a piece of paradise, check out Lake Apoyo... Oh my word. It was gorgeous and SO peaceful! I was so relaxed and just chill while there. Don't get me wrong, after lunch I jumped in the lake for a little swim and then spent three and a half hours playing games on the water raft 30-40 feet off shore. It was a blast playing Ninja, Chilean children's games, and Down By the Banks on the river raft then taking a million "action shots!" However, after that it was nice to just read and lay by the side of the lake for an hour or so... It was a little piece of Nicaraguan heaven.
Me and Laura!
Our MAT raft crew!
HOOK inspired shot...
Mermaid Dancing?!?
After the swim I realized my mistake of not having worn ear-plugs... I always forget that when swimming a lot in a day, but I get swimmer's ear fairly easily when in the water for an extended period of time. That night made for a pretty nasty, tearful night (with only about 3 hours of sleep) because of plugged ear, but it's slowly healing now and there's no pain anymore - I can't quite hear out of it fully yet, but hopefully soon!
Going back to Nicaragua, we headed back to the hotel post swimming and relaxing to eat dinner and then meet up for a final reflection discussion. We were all groaning a bit about having to have the final reflection, but I don't know why... I always end up loving those kind of discussions. I love dissecting feelings and experiences and talking about them openly. Is that weird? Eh. Oh well!
While we were discussing the events from this week we were asked a few different questions. The first (worded more articulately that this): What was your favorite highlight from this trip and why? We were often asked to expand upon that by sharing how that experience would influence us as a teacher in the future. I talked about my experience with Father Cardenal and how I feel more shaped as an individual after hearing him speak - how I set goals for myself as a person and as a teacher while sitting right in his lecture. Again, it was THAT good. I kind of saw him as almost a Nelson Mandela figure of his country and purpose... For real - he was incredible.
Anyway, I wanted to take a second to reflect once more. We were asked to ponder the following questions for our "final reflection" in class tomorrow. Though I already feel I touched upon these things, I feel it might be good to regroup my ideas and just share some insight to my overall experience. First, we were asked how the travel seminar influenced our ability to learn about another culture.
Truthfully, I felt this seminar to be one of the most powerful things I could do to understand and learn about culture while here at Westminster. We talk a lot about the different cultural backgrounds our students can and will come from, but I don't believe that I fully understood until my experience down in Nicaragua how culture can affect a student in and out of the classroom. So many kids down there are excited about and love school, but only have the opportunity to go through 6-8th grade. This is because they have to work after that so their families can make money to eat and survive. So, as an educator I was thoughtful of the students I will have that might have to work to help their family make ends meet. How can I help those students succeed and grow? How will I react when a student comes in and says they don't have their work done because mom needed them to run family errands or work extra hours? I don't believe in allowing excuses to build and enable students to not have to do work. However, I can be more understanding and work with them to come up with a plan that will work for them if things arise. It is going to take more effort on my part as a teacher, but I want to be the teacher that goes the extra mile when needed. Some other students won't think it's fair, but I have realized that education and learning (just like parenting) isn't about giving every child the same thing, but giving each child what they need to be successful. Education is about the individual.
The second question: How will you continue to learn about cultures as a practicing teacher? My thoughts are coming out in THIS fashion:
1. Be familiar with your surrounding. As a teacher, I will be aware of the cultures and values represented in that area. I want to make sure that I know as much as I can about the background of each student and where they are coming from so I can understand their situations and struggles. I want to be understanding of the kids that fall out of the cultural norms of the area's population, and determine how I can make those students feel included without singling them (or others) out.
2. Be familiar with what is happening around the world. At times, kids from other backgrounds and cultures are effected by the things that are happening halfway across the world. If I stay up-to-date on the important things that are happening around the world, I can relate to those students and hopefully know how to better help them through any tough experiences. Also, I can use cultural events from around to world to bring in information or ideas that may represent that student without singling them out or making them uncomfortable.
3. In regards to English or theater, why not bring in literature or theatrical pieces from other countries or cultures? If there is a piece originally written in a different language, I could bring in translations for class members. I can use pieces that dig into cultural or societal issues (which many and most do in some way), and do more than perform or read them, but discuss them. I think this is a vital piece of theater and studying literature, regardless - dissecting and discussing the real meaning behind a piece.
4. Travel. I have NO problem with this idea... The more I travel and observe different cultures, asking questions and walking the non-touristy path, the more I can come to better understand a culture or life style. I love traveling SO much and experiencing new places, so this idea is heaven to me... Yep - I'm going to travel like crazy during my summer months. It's research, right? :) Think I can get funding for that? Yea - didn't think so. It was worth a shot though! :)
All in all, my experience to Nicaragua was life changing and incredible. I really was so happy with the people I was there with and how we influenced and taught one another, as well as the experiences the Center for Global Education had laid out for us. It really was the PERFECT trip and learning experience. Westminster, I love you even more now... and I already loved you a whole lot. *muah*
Song of the Day: I think I post this video EVERY Christmas, but it is THAT good. Here is Vocal Point (Feat. Ryan Innes) singing "He Is Born." He is insane good - they all are. BLOWS MY MIND. Check out both versions (one is only half, BUT it's a better version I believe)... Enjoy!
I have much more of this trip to record and share! I always struggle to get down everything I want to remember after the fact is a week or more behind me, so I hope I can do this justice.
FRIDAY...
On Friday we got up bright and early to make tortillas with the host family madre. We really only learned to shape and cook them, but it was still a cool experience. We ate breakfast (a egg pancake thing on the tortilla and fresh plantains) with our little group of three and then headed to the end of the road to meet the bus so we could get everyone from their homes. Leaving the home I stayed at, I merely wished there was more interaction between us and the host-family. I know we didn't all speak Spanish, but we had one with the ability to translate (Marilee), and it would have been nice. I'm sure it was a respect thing (perhaps a bit of a comfort thing as well), but I think you REALLY find out about a person's living situation and life/opinions from talking with them. It was interesting also how we never saw the father figure in the home. Regardless, we were thankful for all they did for us. As we walked to meet the bus, I noted what a beautiful morning was around us. I took some time to just relish in the beauty of the hills and plant-life around me... It's amazing how you can see the hand of God wherever you are in the world. Tender mercies.
After picking everyone up we headed back to the city of Matagalpa for a short stop at a local cathedral (Parraoula San Pedro Apostol – Catedral)and park in the city so we could see a bit of a different city. We were only there for about 20 minutes and then had to get back on the bus and then headed out to a dry-mill for the coffee production process. We got to walk around the mill and see just how it's taken care of all the way to packaging - drying, raking, setting, roasting, and even tasting to see what flavors are good enough to be sold. It was really cool, but took a bit longer than anticipated or appreciated. So many people were not feeling well that day and we were all hot and feeling pretty nasty - really we were in need of showers. Haha!
After the drive back to Managua, we checked back into our original hotel and had time to freshen up and grab lunch. We were really excited about both of those things - haha! Honestly, I was straight-up starvin', but also in dire need of refreshing... It was a toss up to see which would win out, but food won.
We grabbed our travel bags and headed over to the University for a lecture from a Jesuit Priest named Father Fernando Cardenal. He was involved in the revolution of Nicaragua in the 1970's and the literacy campaign there in the 1980's. None of us were particularly looking forward to this lecture and many of us even jokingly debated way to ditch without being noticed. First, that would have been impossible. Second, it would have been HIGHLY regretted... For MANY of us on the trip, this lecture was our favorite part of the stay in Nicaragua. It was life-changing, and rejuvenating... I felt so amazingly moved educationally, spiritually, personally... I made goals for myself while sitting there and listening to him lecture. I took notes and basked in his presence. It's truly remarkable how one indvidual and his life could have such an impact on another human being, not to mention the entire group of us MAT students.
Following the lecture, we headed out to grab dinner at a local, authentic Nicaraguan restaurant called Cocina de Dina Haydee. It was pretty bomb! We ordered drinks, appetizers, main courses, and desserts, and stuffed ourselves silly. We were all sharing, so it wasn't as much as it sounded... but it was still a lot! Haha... I had some appetizer with Indio Vejio (Jacob from freshman year served his mission there and suggested I try that out) which was fabulous, and a sampler of many different things.... Then, there was the tres leche. TO. DIE. FOR. Seriously - incredible.
A group of us felt the need to work off all that food after, so we went dancing at a local disco techa. Haha! It was awesome... It was smokey and there were dirty videos on the screens, which was NOT my thing, but the music was reggaton and we had a good time dancing. Something that was odd - none of the guys made moves on us really, but they would stare at us and pretty much eye-rape us as we danced.... kinda creepy. I kept hearing them say, "gringas, gringas....," but would just creepily check us out. That was pretty ICK too....
We only stayed for about an hour when half the group decided to go onto another club, and the rest of us grabbed a cab to head home. Turns out we had gotten into an illegal cab... Good thing someone was watching out for us, because that would have been pretty bad. We got home safe though and decided to call it a night. I stayed up to read and blog a bit, but let me tell you... I was ZONKED!
SATURDAY...
Saturday was a lot of fun in that it was more the sight-seeing part of our trip. We hopped on the bus bright and early, had a different guide for the day, and headed first to a local grocery market. It's pretty similar to our Smith's or Macey's... but we all got to try some new treats and grab some things to take home for treats. Then, we headed to Masaya Volcano National Park. It's a live volcano (though simmering and not exploding) we could go around to see and take pictures. It was neat... no more on that. Haha!
Our next stop was the Masaya Craft Marketplace... I could have used more time there - haha! It was a shopping dream. Hand-made crafts and for very little money - I was loving it! Haha... I went around with Laura (Cami and Katelyn were with us some of the time) and she helped me when I was struggling to understand Spanish, but I felt I was doing alright with talking to people and bartering. I didn't do a ton of bartering because I know that this market is where these people make their money and stuff was already pretty inexpensive. I mostly waited for people to lower the prices themselves as I stood there long enough looking. :) It was fine by me if they wanted to go lower, and then I was able to knock of three or four dollars on the big items. I found a beautiful white stone nativity and an elephant in the same stone (I try to get an elephant from every country I go to), and got a carved and hand-painted mask for my theater classroom. It was fun... I must admit, I do love shopping.
We hit up a local "buffet" for lunch, where some older guys came and played our table a song on the marimba. It was beautiful and a total highlight for me - I love music. It just makes me happy to see others use the gift of music... It's the true universal language.
Post-lunch we headed to the city Granada, the oldest known European settlement that still exists today, were we saw some of the city center, a beautiful Catholic cathedral, and took an amazing boat ride on Nicaragua Lake. We went around the islands (thoughts to be exactly 365 of them) on that HUGE lake - second biggest in the bottom hemisphere - and saw gorgeous homes, amazing plant-life and views, and even stumbled across monkey island. YES - monkey island. This is a place where a vet placed 12 monkeys to live in the "wild" safely.... incredible. Don't believe me? See the video below for proof... Yep.
We headed back to the hotel afterward and got dinner, chilled, and just had a good night back at the hotel... Katie and I had a good chat in our room about life - rooming with her was great cause she's so easy to talk with about anything. I never feel like I can't ask her something or bring up any topic. It's fabulous... :)
I'll have to write about the last day later... For now, this little girl has to get some sleep. It seems I may (or may not) have contracted a tape-worm or some stomach illness post-trip. Yep - yuck. Silver lining: I'm down seven pounds! Yippee! Haha.... I'm almost to my Germany weight. BOOM. *muah*
Song of the Day: Cheesy song award goes to the following song.... but I adore it! Here is One Direction with "They Don't Know About Us," off their newest album. I love the whole album - no lie. Enjoy!
I am a singer, an actress, and a dancer. I am an educator and a life-long learner. I am a comedian. I love to laugh... and smile. I am spiritual and passionate about spirituality. I love sports, politics, reading, writing poetry, and I'm crazy about traveling! I work hard and play even harder... I hold no shame in my awkwardness, and embrace the unique. I am passionate and emotionally-centered. I have two webbed toes, love eyeliner and the color yellow, eat too many donuts, collect elephants, and am a personal paradox - living in planned spontaneity. Oh, and I love to write!
