At Campus Rec, Wii don't mess around

Or do Wii? Of course we do! The day before the big 3-day shutdown is always full of fun. We get out the Wii and play games like any other organization would. Okay, so we're cool like that and get to have fun, don't be jealous! =) There's hardly any staff working today.....I've seen 3 people check in to the Rec in the last 45 minutes, the phone has rang once, I can see one person on a treadmill (and even that surprises me) and my students are either playing online games or on facebook. Pretty normal for this time of year. But kudos to the people who want to get in one last workout before the holidays, you're doing more than I'm going to do!

So, I'm gearing up to dig out the Wii and get everything set up around 10am. The past few years we've played Disney Trivia. It's a riot. Then we have the classic Wii Sports and Wii Party. It's a fun time. Then I'm leaving at noon to get my bags packed and head to the thriving metropolis of Albion. I'll be there for the next 5 or 6 days. I can't wait! A nice long break from Lincoln. Don't get me wrong, I love Lincoln, but we all know it's nice to get away for a while.

I started packing the fun stuff last night, or the "funtivities." The bag consists of several movies, books on my read-list, and Wii games, of course. My brother apparently got a new game and he told me to bring home my remotes. Becky and I had a "no tv night" last night, so I started reading The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks (thank you Cassie for lending me the book). So far, so good. But, all I can think about when I read is the fact that Miley Cyrus was cast to play Ronnie......and I can't stand her. But other than that, I'm 75 pages deep and excited to finish it in the next few days. That's what happens when I start reading. I can't stop until I know what happens.

Christmas is 2 days away!! YAY!

Until next time,

supinlincoln

Mav-Rec

The work day was a good one today, ladies and gents. My chauffeur (Tony) came and picked me up at my apartment this morning around 8:30 and we made the drive to Omaha. Because the referendum passed, we're looking at other new facilities to try and get some ideas. Since UNO just renovated their recreation center, Director Joe Kaminski took us on a lengthy tour of the facility. I have to say that I was impressed. It's so different from our Rec. I've got pictures, but will post them later, as my cord is at work, and I am not. Anyway, it gets me excited for how we will renovate our city campus facility and how the new facility will be designed. There's just so much to consider...what kind of floors, signage, entry ways, desk displays...I could go on and on.

So after our tour we ate lunch at The Cheesecake Factory. I had a "lunch size" bbq chicken pizza with a salad. The salad alone could have been lunch, but it was not tasty at all, so I stuck with the pizza. Then, the best part.....the dessert. I took no time deciding that I would have the red velvet cake cheesecake. It's the best one on the list, I don't care what anyone else tells you. So that was my day, in a nut shell...now I'm bored and tired and don't know what I'm going to do with my night. I did all of my laundry last night...I just don't have the drive to do anything but sit on the couch. Oh well...'tis the season. Guess I'll just listen to all the music I downloaded a few nights ago. Yes!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

down with the sickness

No, I'm not talking about the Disturbed song...I'm talking about how I celebrated the Sup Christmas yesterday. On a bed. In the bathroom. All. Day. Long. Major Suckfest. I just don't know what the heck was wrong with me. I slept a full night, then the second I woke up, I felt completely terrible. SO, without going into the hairy details, let's just summarize it as one of the worst Christmas's of my life.

Today I feel better, just sore and tired (even though all I did yesterday was sleep, I still don't know how the hell I can be tired). I was planning on staying in Albion tonight, since yesterday sucked so bad, but then I heard there was supposed to be freezing rain tonight and tomorrow morning, which would prevent my return to Lincoln......which would suck because I'd miss out on our Christmas party at Campus Rec. That is not going to happen. No way am I missing two Christmas celebrations.

So anyway, I hit the road back to Lincoln...and the more I drove the sleepier I got. Then, I got on the interstate and was reminded of how much stupid people annoy me. For those of you who don't know, the right lane is not for slow drivers. It's a passing lane. For fast drivers. So, get your ass out of the way and let me through.

Until next time,
supinlincoln

the best birth control

...does not come in the form of a pill, a patch, an injection, or a condom. It comes in the form of being around little kids. It's enough to make me abstain! The little cousins arrived tonight, Bryson and Bennett. Brittany was also in the mix. She loves little kids, and certainly gets a kick out those two boys. We were at Grandma Sup's house also, so it was like 90 degrees in there. I thought I was going to have heat stroke. I'm also super tired from this morning, and you know how lack of sleep and warmth go together....all I wanted to do was doze off on the couch. Anyway, we've got the Sup Christmas tomorrow evening. The rest of the clan is arriving tomorrow throughout the day. I'm really looking forward to doing our grab bag. I'm anxious to see what everyone brought. I think my gift is pretty awesome, but I guess we'll see about that tomorrow. I'm going to need my rest for tomorrow, it's going to be a long day!

I pulled into town around 4pm today, and then went up to Cassie's to deliver her Christmas gifts from me and Becky. I gave her the movie Eclipse and Becky got her a desk calendar. She loved both, so that was cool. Then I went back to the feed store and when I got there, my baby B was there! I haven't seen her since Thanksgiving. I swear, she changes so much every time I see her. She's starting to say numbers, colors, thank you, please, love you....a bunch of words. She's going to be a smart little bugger.

This morning was the Senior Breakfast at the Rec. Always a joyous occasion. Sally and Amy are the best shoppers. We had so much food, but strangely enough, no matter how much is purchased, none goes to waste! Students are always hungry. =) That's okay, they work hard, so it's nice to reward them from time-to-time. Said goodbye to some very talented employees of mine. They will be missed. It was such a smooth semester, I can only hope for a comparable one next semester.

I could probably go on about my past couple of days, but I'm pooped out. Time to go to bed. Maybe I'll get a post in tomorrow about Christmas, but it might have to wait until Sunday. Christmas is only 8 days away!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Kettle Counting

Philanthropy Day #1 for the employees of Campus Rec. Six of us traveled to the Salvation Army to count the money that was collected in the red kettles yesterday. Well, we didn't really have to count, we just sorted bills and made sure there weren't any silly coins, which we did come across. There were a few tokens here and there, one from Champions, one from Chuck-E-Cheese. Theresa, the coordinator, said they get those things form time-to-time. She showed us a little bowl full of things they've received from people. There was a $10,000 bill with a cartoon character on the front. She said they got a dollar the other day with a picture of Santa in the middle. I mean, come on people. We're trying to do something good here, and you're being a smart ass. But, on the other hand, some people do some really nice things for the Salvation Army. For example, one of the kettles Meghan counted had a $300.00 check in it. One of the other counters said someone threw in 10 $100 bills the other day. It just amazes me how generous people can be. Some people have the biggest hearts. But, according to the newspapers, the kettles aren't bringing in the dough like they did last season. SO, next time you pass a kettle, throw a little something in there! You'd be surprised how the dollars add up!

I'll finish training my new ID checker this afternoon, then tonight is the last night of bowling until mid-January. Since it's the last night for awhile, we always have a pizza party, which is awesome and much appreciated.

Philanthropy #2 is tomorrow at the Malone Center wrapping gifts. I'm super excited for that, because I LOVE wrapping presents. Then, Isaac has his little Christmas program tomorrow evening, so I think Becky and I are going to that. Then, if we have time, we're going to see the movie Burlesque. THEN, I need to start making another batch of my sugar cookies for the Sup Christmas on Saturday. I feel sort of baked out, so I'm not looking forward to making another batch, but I'll do it for my family. I know they'd be disappointed if I didn't deliver.

Until next time,

supinlincoln

a visit from the Obermeiers

All I had on my agenda today was to train a new-hire. In other words, a b-o-r-i-n-g day. Then, I got a text from Holly! Her and OB came to Lincoln to visit, so we walked up to the Union and grabbed lunch. It was great to catch up! I'm so glad they're back in Nebraska. Well, anything's better than Texas. Holly can now be seen on channel 7 in Omaha, as she is a meteorologist for KETV. She's awesome, you should watch her. Since I'm a faithful viewer of The Weather Channel, I can say with 100% certainty that Holly would do a MUCH better job than Nicole Mitchell. I can hardly stand to watch her do the weather.

Time to find something to do. Only 11 days till Christmas!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Goody Extravaganza

I finally finished baking all of my goodies for the student employees. I got a little artsy-fartsy with the pictures, but had to take them because that's how proud of myself I am. The wolves (a.k.a. the students) have already descended, so I'd say it's a huge success. Yummy almond barked pretzels and probably the best puppy chow I've ever made pictured above.

My famous sugar cookies made from scratch pictured above. They are to-die-for. When I was making the frosting for these babies, I got into a fight with the powdered sugar as you can tell from my picture below.
Also displayed is my "6 times in 2010" from the Nebraska Community Blood Bank. One of the best gifts you can give is the gift of life. I encourage you to get out there and do something great for your community. Give blood! Here's a link for you to make an appointment or check out their website: http://don8bld.org

Until next time,

supinlincoln

Bakin' Fool

So it's Finals Week for all of my employees at UNL beginning Monday. I've decided to make a plethora of treats for them, out of the goodness of my heart. I've made the best puppy chow EVER, and almond barked some pretzels. Today is the cookie-making day. I've got the dough made for my famous sugar cookies, and then I'm going to make some oatmeal scotchies and rise krispies. They are so spoiled. Jared came over last night and brought a movie The Losers. It was okay, glad I watched it, but glad I didn't see it in theatres. I got to gaze upon the beautiful, sexy Jeffery Dean Morgan, however, so it wasn't all bad.

I got to try out my new boots yesterday. They are so warm and awesome. Love them! Good cyber Monday purchase. However, I wore them while going to WalMart which was a terrible idea. Too many screaming kids and idiotic people. I hate shopping there on weekends, but I had no choice. The aisles are divided by merchandise, so it's already tight in there, enough room for one cart on each side. Anyway, the girl in front of me stops, leans on her cart and begins texting on her phone blocking my cart path. So, I had to turn around and go against traffic on the other side. What an idiot.

It's freezing cold in our apartment. We're penny pushers, so we still haven't turned on the heat and the wind chill is -15 degrees right now. It's 66 degrees in our place. Becky and I are decked out in sweatpants, hoodies, and slippers. We're crazy. =) Bring it on, old man Winter!

Today will be a productive day. I plan on getting the rest of my Christmas shopping done today so I can get it OVER with! Then, the baking will commence. I know I've said it before, but I am SO excited for this week at work! So much to do, so time will fly. Then we're having the Sup Christmas in Albion this weekend. Lots to look forward to.

Hope ya'll are staying warm! Christmas is only 13 days away! Yay!!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

New Boots!

I found my cord! Wohoo! Here's a picture of my new snow boots. Now we just need some snow!

Also, here's the picture of our little Christmas tree with present overflow. I love Christmas!!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Until next time,

supinlincoln

Bruised

That's what I am after a rough game of racquetball with my boss, Tony. He's really good. I got my ass kicked. I love to play the game, and it's a great workout, but it's even better when you're playing with someone who knows the game like Tony does. I felt like a rookie on the court. I was missing shots, couldn't serve in the right place.....just ridiculous. I dove for a couple balls, but I'm still unsure if it was on purpose or on accident. The second dive was not received well by my body. My right ankle and left knee were like, WTF? but my right arm just below my elbow is what's causing me the most agony. I tend to overexaggerate injuries, but I'm a big baby and I enjoy complaining, so that's what I'm doing. Ha ha. Anyway, I'm battered and bruised....and totally dreading how I'll feel in the morning. We'll see. I'll give an update.

Last night was superb. I went to Kirsten's place to get a massage. She's a miracle worker. I'm always sore in different places after each massage. Usually it's my back right between my shoulder blades, or my upper neck, but this time it's my deltoids......or what I like to call my "shrug muscles." I always have a headache after a massage too, it's odd. Anyway, after the massage we went to Huhot and had supper. OMG, I love that place. I usually get the traditional Chinese noodles, but this time I tried the Yakisoba noodles. I liked them way better....they seem to hold more flavor. What's best about these noodles, is they're the lowest calorie noodle they have, awesome! So, that was super fun. Kirsten and I had a chance to catch up at dinner, it was really nice.

Looking forward to a lot of nothing this weekend. Hopefully I'm able to get the rest of my Christmas shopping done. I've still got quite a bit to do, so we'll see how that goes. I'm watching the news right now, and originally it was supposed to be super chilly on Saturday...so I'll have to listen to Ken Siemek's report. I'm also looking forward to next week. It's going to fly. I've got so much going on at work, which I'm thrilled about. So much philanthropy going on. Also, my bosses are taking Sherri and me out for lunch in Omaha at......drumroll please..........The Cheesecake Factory! Booyah! I can't wait to sink my teeth into a piece of red velvet cake cheesecake. Makes my mouth water just thinking about it. We'll also be touring UNO's new recreation facility to get some ideas for the new rec center at East Campus.

Becky and I have been wrapping Christmas presents like crazy. We have a skinny 4 foot tree, and presents are spewing out from under it, it's awesome. I took a picture of it, but I can't find my cord to get them on my computer. Sad. I also took a picture of my new boots! They're totally snow boots, so maybe we'll get some snow in the future so I can wear them. They're adorable, I love them! I have an inkling that my cord is at work, so maybe I can get the pics up tomorrow. Cross your fingers!!

That's pretty much all I've got for right now. I'm getting sleepy, so I'm going to do the nightly routine and hit the sack. At least it's a "mild" winter night so I won't freeze! Supposed to be in the mid-fifties tomorrow, yippee!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

You know what you have to do, you just haven't done it.

What a busy 4 days I've had, and it's not stopping any time soon. This is good news, because the faster the days go, the sooner it will be Christmas.

Cassie made it to Lincoln on Saturday morning. We wasted no time and went directly to Paint Yourself Silly. It was a ton of fun, I love that place. I decorated a divided bowl so if I ever want to make some dip or something, I'll be set. Ha ha. Becky painted a bowl to "put M&M's in" and Cass made a coffee cup. A good time was had by all. After lunch at Qdoba, coffee at Starbucks, a stop at Bradea to get Miller & Paine cinnamon rolls, and a trip to HyVee, we went back to the apartment and make chili and almond barked some pretzels. We then picked up a movie to watch Eat, Pray, Love. Not Julia's best work....but it passed the time until the chili was ready. The Husker game was on at 7, so we enjoyed chili and cinnamon rolls as well as the game. Until half time......then........well, this is a happy place, so I won't be talking about the game.

Cassie left on Sunday after we had lunch with Jared at Red Robin. Then, I packed my bag and headed to Omaha. Wasn't feeling too hot...had a headache and just in a cloudy mood, you know how it is sometimes (well, you understand if you're a woman......). Anyway, went out to eat with the fam at Applebees and then went back to Teresa's and watched the Steelers game. They actually pulled it out, so at least one of my teams won...besides the fact that Big Ben got his nose broken AND was hurt, but played like a champ anyway. He's so awesome.

Monday was THE shopping day. We hit up Village Point and Westroads in Omaha and got A LOT of shopping done. The amounts are appearing on my credit card, and it makes me cringe to see that amount go up and up and up. Ouch. But, it will be worth it, I love giving gifts and making people happy, especially when it's my favorite people in the world! I headed back to Lincoln around 5:30pm and as soon as I got home I wrapped all of the gifts, the best part! I love gift wrapping! Then, it was time for bed. I was beat.

Tuesday it was back to the grind. I got caught up with everything in the morning, and then we had staff retreat in the afternoon. B-o-r-i-n-g. After retreat (I don't know why they call it that, it's not a retreat at all......we didn't even leave the Rec) Tony and I dug out the Christmas decor. I put up the tree, strung the lights, and it looks fab. Two people have told me how cool it looks, and there isn't even a topper or ornaments on it yet! After work, I had a lia sophia meeting. We got pizza, pop, and chips, which was nice. I was hungry. I also won $100 for playing Baby Bingo. My manager gave us this little game to play while she was on maternity leave, and if you got a bingo, she gave you $100 cash. So, I'm now up $100. Which I'm really not, because I have some debt to pay off. Not to mention my dad told me I needed new tires. DAMN. It's funny to think about how much money you spend every day. Even when you don't do anything or buy anything, you're still spending money. It's re-dick.

Today I met Jen at ECAB to lift. However, I forgot my shoes at home, so I had to turn around and go back to get them. THEN, I had to wait for a train. I didn't want to wait, and I honestly thought I was going to run out of gas. Since there was a gas station right across the street, I turned around and got gas. On my way to ECAB, I had to wait for yet another train. Just wasn't my morning. But, I did finally make it. After a good conversation with Sherri (too much talking, not enough lifting) she fed me a quote, which is the subject of my blog today. And, I'll talk about it another day. The blog is long enough already.

I'm looking forward to this afternoon. After I shower and eat lunch, we have a BOP (Business Operations) meeting. Then I'm heading out at 5pm to go to Kirsten's place for a massage (YAY) and enchiladas (YAY YAY). Haven't hung out with her in a loooong time, so it will be nice to catch up!

Hope you've all at least started your Christmas shopping.....I'm almost done! Happy Hump Day!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Oh Friday, how I love thee

Don't you just love going to work and getting bombarded with questions? I sure do. Just puts me in a peachy mood for the rest of the day.

Had a Social Committee meeting this morning. We're adopting a family through the Salvation Army. It's a grandmother and two of her grandchildren. We're also wrapping gifts at the Malone Center, and counting kettle money. Just full of philanthropy this year. It's a nice feeling.

We sent out the student spring schedules. I've already heard bitching. They only have themselves to blame, they put in their own availability. Dorks. I'm not in the mood to put up with their complaining.

Got to take a trip back to my childhood today. Everyone on facebook is encouraged to change their profile pictures to a cartoon character you watched during your childhood. Naturally, I choose Rainbow Brite. I watched that movie over and over and over. Loved it. Makes me want to watch it today and see how nerdy it really was. Ha!

The apartment is prepped for Cassie's arrival. I actually have a clean room. No clothes on the floor, and no dust anywhere. Just an unmade bed, but that's normal for me. My momma didn't raise no fool. I know that you need to clean when you have company coming! Just wish my body would cooperate with me. I don't enjoy having a cold. This one has beat me down. I usually hit a brick wall in the afternoon, so I'm waiting for that to happen. I'll give it about 45 minutes. Yesterday afternoon was terrible. I left work at 4pm (which was fine, because I stayed till 8 the night before) and went home and jumped on the couch to rest. I had zero energy. Today had been a better day, despite the sneezing and nose-blowing.

I'm psyched for a weekend of FUN! So, the sooner I leave the office, the better! I've got Monday off, and I think the rest of next week should go fast, so I'm looking forward to it. Have a wonderful weekend, all!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Tylenol Cough and Sore Throat

After the finale of Storm Chasers, I was totally zonked. Went to bed and turned on the television to find out that MTV is playing the most recent episode of The Challenge. Of course, I stay up to watch it.
Then, at 5AM, I wake up, tv still on....... But, now I can't fall back asleep because my throat is so scratchy, raspy, grainy....and I have this dry cough that's just driving me insane. So, I try a drink of water. Nothing. I lay back down hoping to fall back asleep. Nope. Then, I decided it was time to bust out the Tylenol Cough and Sore Throat serum. An instant cooling sensation stuns my jugular and I'm able to fall asleep. Now, the formula I ingested is "Daytime, non-drowsy"....YEAH RIGHT. I slept through my alarm and woke up at 9:59am. Apparently my body was trying to tell me something. So, the extra sleep was nice, and I feel about 70% right now.

CPR was great last night. I had a fun group of kids. Some nights I just enjoy teaching more than others, and luckily, last night was one of those nights.

Tony and I are meeting Shannon O for lunch today. We're hitting up the Haymarket area to dine at Brewskys. Can't wait!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Annoyance of the Day

So, I'm in the locker room getting ready after my workout this morning, and this girl comes in and stands next to me, fixing her hair. She is also CHOMPING HER GUM. Not exactly chomping, but smacking. I can hear the saliva mixing with her gum in her mouth with each jaw movement. Grossed me out. I'm sure you're enjoying you gum, but I don't give two shits about it, so I'd prefer to not listen to how much you love you gum. Disgusting.

I'm starving. It's lunch time.

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Storm Chasers

I woke up this morning and turned on the weather channel like I do every morning. They were reporting about all the bad weather in the South. Then they showed a clip from Yazoo City. To anyone who watches the show "Storm Chasers" there was an episode towards the beginning of the series where an EF4 tornado ripped apart the town of Yazoo City, Mississippi. Killed 12 people. Complete devastation, similar to the tornadoes that demolished Hallam, NE, and Greensburg, KS. Anyway, that was back in April. This morning, Yazoo City had been hit once again by a tornado. No lives were lost this time, but still a huge mess. I just feel for the people in the city. You pick your lives up and start over, only to do it all again 7 months later. Weather fascinates me, I love it. Don't understand a whole lot about it, but I like to pretend I do. Ha ha.

Other happenings of the day:

1. Completed the student schedules for next semester (THANK THE GOOD LORD). Now they just need to be approved and we'll be set.

2. Talked to my landlord (AGAIN) about our loud neighbors. Not sure how much more we can take.

3. Got bitten by a ladybug that was in my pajama pants. Seriously?? Yes. Felt something crawling on my leg. Freaked out a little and swatted it off. Found the bastard on the floor and crushed it. Karma is a bitch. You bite me, I kill you.

4. Watched Glee. It was awesome.

5. Used the word "gooder" twice today. Wanted to say good, but then decided to go with better. Felt like an idiot both times I did it, but it was funny.

Tomorrow I'm teaching First Aid and CPR. It's going to be a long day...probably won't get home till 8pm, but then, season finale of Storm Chasers. That should make it all worth it. Thursday it's movie night with Jen and Becky. Friday, Cassie is coming. Saturday, a day-o-fun and the Huskers take on Oklahoma. Sunday evening, I'm heading to Omaha. Monday, I've got the day off to do nothing but Christmas shop with mom and Teresa. Jam-packed, but I love it. The busier I am, the faster the days go which means the sooner Christmas is here!

Christmas song of the day:
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen--Manheim Steamroller

Until next time,
supinlincoln

Happy Cyber Monday to ME!

Thank you DSW for the 25% off and free shipping. Now I can enjoy Winter with some new boots!

not another cold!

I have a feeling I'm getting another cold. Clogged ears, stuffed nose, sore throat........not good. No likey.

Someone is heating up food in the break room, and it smells sooooo good. Like lasagna. Now I want lasagna. But no, I'll eat this granola bar instead. Then I'll order lunch from Jimmy Johns, the best sandwich delivery place in Lincoln. #12, hold the sprouts.

Got back to Lincoln yesterday around 3:30pm. Unpacked and then picked up my room a little. Then I tackled my desk. It's been a catch-all for a while, so I actually went through it and threw a bunch of crap away. I don't know why I just don't throw them away in the first place. So, now I have a cleared desk, and when I woke up this morning it was weird seeing it like that. I also got caught up on all of my shows since I had been gone since Wednesday. Glee, Modern Family, and Storm Chasers. All were great, as expected. Now I'm excited to watch Castle tonight. Sadly, my life revolves around television. Ha ha. I can't help it that the shows are addicting!!

Going to be a hectic day at work. My boss isn't in yet, but once he gets here we're going to do the student's schedules for Spring semester. They've been on my ass about getting them, but I can't do anything about it right now, sorry kids! But, I can't blame them, I'd want my schedule too.

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW. But not this weekend because Cassie is coming to visit me.

Until next time,
supinlincoln

the countdown begins

Well, one Holiday weekend down.....the next one is in four weeks. I'll have off December 24 - January 2. A nice, long Christmas break. I love it. Now all I've got to do is ALL of my Christmas shopping. I've got mom done and a gift for the Sup Christmas grab bag. So, I guess that's better than nothing, right?

Turkey day was a huge success. I overindulged, as did the rest of my family. Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, stuffing, green bean casserole, homemade buns, several different desserts (one of which I made....it was amazing). So, now I feel like a Marge and need to hit the gym and burn off all of these extra calories I stuffed in.

Got in a few good games of golf (the card game) with the fam. Thursday night, Teresa and Jesse headed off to Lindsay for the Luetkenhaus Thanksgiving, so the Sups started playing cards. Brittany was also sitting at the table. She was being a little pill. To put it in reference, she was being Stewie Griffin, saying "Momma!" over and over and over and over. Finally, Angie went over to pick her up and see what she wanted and she went crazy. Arms flailing, screaming. So, Brittany got a time out. Let me tell you, one of the saddest things I've ever witnessed, but also quite funny. It breaks your hear to hear her cry that hard...after her 1 minute in time out (more like 40 seconds) she was fine. Turns out all she wanted was a pen and paper. But, it's hard to tell what a 16-month old wants when she's just learning how to talk. Then we switched gears and got mom's Christmas tree set up. It was hilarious watching Brittany decorate. She likes the bulbs, and she likes to put them all in the same place. After she left, I redecorated a little.

Didn't do a whole lot on Friday except for eat more and watch the Husker game. Teresa came over from Lindsay to watch it with us. She brought hot chocolate and butterscotch schnopps, so that was delicious. Give it a try. After the Husker victory (yay!) we got the rest of mom's Christmas decor out decorated. Since we had so many leftover mashed potatoes, Mom and I made dumplings so we could have duck and dumplings on Saturday night. Then, we played more cards and packed it in early. The only way to cure a food coma is to get some zzz's. Ha ha.

Saturday was pretty eventful. Mom, Teresa, and I went shopping in downtown Albion. Stopped at Wells, Albion Floral, The Boot Rack, Alco, you know, pretty much every shopping place Albion has. But it was a success. We got the grandma's gifts purchased and I bought a gift for the Sup grab bag. Then we headed over to Grandma Sups to put up her Christmas stuff. We found some stuff in her basement. Jesse and I hung up some star lights on her deck, and mom and Teresa did the inside stuff. After that we came back to mom's and decorated the outside of the house. Jesse was on the roof putting up lights, and Teresa and I hung the lighted garland on mom's deck. It looks nice. Not too fancy, but it's not like we're trying to win a contest or anything. Then, after all of our hard work, it was time to eat the duck and dumplings. Oh man, it was SO good. I think I enjoyed that meal better than our Thanksgiving feast. I don't know, it might have to be a tie. We finished the night watching the football gods align the Big XII tournament. One last meeting between OU and NU. It's going to be a great game. Let's hope we don't have the same officials as we did for the Texas A&M games.....ha ha.

And now, it's Sunday. The last day of bliss. I've got my bags packed, and I'm heading out shortly after lunch. I'll make a stop in Columbus at Maurices, because that's like my favorite store in the whole world. Also because I've got some coupons to use before they expire. The week will be busy. We're scheduling all the students for the Spring semester with our new scheduler, so it's going to be interesting to see how it works! Hope you all had a fabulous Thanksgiving with your friends and family!!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

7 Month Hiatus

After a 7 month hiatus, I am back, hopefully for the long haul. I'll try to hit the highlights of the past 7 months, but it's kind of sad that not too much is popping in my head. Here goes.

One of my best friends from college, Amy, got married to her counterpart, Brent. I don't know if I've ever seen two people more perfect for eachother. I've always said they're just the right amount of weird for eachother. Their wedding was a blast, and only makes me want to have one of my own someday. =)

The day after Brent and Amy's wedding, my beautiful niece, Brittany, turned 1! She had a princess party. It was a super fun day......she took her first steps earlier that day. Now she's 16 months old and literally running all over the place. She's starting to speak, she's in love with my dad, or "poppa" as she calls him, infatuated with Barney and animals......just how a little girl should be. I've baby sat her a few Saturdays here and there and am amazed at how much energy a little lady can have. I was exhausted! But, wouldn't trade those memories for anything. She's so special.

My friend Shannon and her husband Andrew had a baby boy in July. His name is Erik. I drove up to Omaha to meet the little man before they left the hospital.....what a cutie. They are totally in love with him. They'll be wonderful parents. Now I just need to make another trip to Iowa to see him! Bet he looks totally different.

Two of my classmates got married in September. Becky and I worked really hard preparing to sing for Tom and Danielle's wedding. We got so many compliments, it was fun. Another one of our classmates is getting married next July and asked us to sing in her wedding, too. I guess I should be flattered? It is a lot of work, but it's fun. Heck, I'd do anything to ride on the trolley and party with the lot of the wedding party, so I guess singing isn't a bad gig!

So, now here I am in November. Can't believe how fast this month has gone. I'll be heading home for Thanksgiving on Wednesday. I'm going to make this killer pumpkin desert, I can't wait. Also very excited to just hang with the fam. Oh, and the 4 day weekend won't be bad either. Ha!

What else is new? Not sure! I'm still working at the Rec. Oh! I've started selling lia sophia jewelry about 3 months ago. I love it........it's kind of hard to get people to have parties, but I get some awesome jewelry. So, if anyone's interested in booking a party, let me know! Ha ha. I went to my first Scentsy party last Thursday. It was super fun, so many yummy scents. I love those little parties, they are such a nice break from doing nothing every other night.

Well, I'm going to take off work a tad early. Got to run to Walmart and get all of my groceries for our non-traditional Thanksgiving at work tomorrow. The theme is Mexican. I'm making a cream cheese salsa dip and a Mexican chicken crock pot recipe. Yummy!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving! Spend it with friends and family! Be thankful for the people in your life and everything God has done to bless your life! I know I'm thankful!

Until next time,
supinlincoln

back in the saddle again!

It had been far too long since my last post. It's time to get back in the saddle. However, there just isn't much to report! Things have pretty much remained the same.

In March, I got to go to the Bon Jovi concert. IT WAS AWESOME. So, there's a highlight.

Last week (and weekend) was super busy. I took off work on Friday and spent the afternoon with my mom. We did some downtown shopping. Then, I went to visit Cassie for a while. We had a nice time just visiting, playing Wii, and enjoying the weather. We were hoping for a thunderstorm in Albion, but all we got was a tiny rumble of thunder and a few bolts of lightning. Oh well, storm season is upon us, so I don't think I'll have to wait long.

Saturday I headed to Columbus for Amy's bridal shower (that me and one other girl planned). It actually went extremely well. It is hard work! I know it probably doesn't sound super hard, but you forget about the smallest things! All in all, it was a fun time. We met back at Amy and Brent's place for some relaxation (aka Bud Light) and supper. I met some of her work friends, and then I decided to venture back to Lincoln. I was exhausted by the time I got home!

Sunday, Becky and I had Sunday school, so we had to be there at 9am. We've been helping with Sunday school since Valentine's day. We're in the 3-4 year-old room, so it's not really Sunday school, it's like play time. So, it's pretty easy, and some of those kids are just hilarious. I'm finally starting to know their names and what they like to do. I've never really been a fan of little kids.....but it was something I could do to serve the Lord, so I'm happy to do it. Gotta give back from time to time! =) Maybe they are filling the void when I can't see my Brittany.

Well, that's all I've got for now. I promise to be a little more diligent in my blogging!

"I thank my God every time I remember you." --Philipians 1:3

Until next time,
supinlincoln

RIP Uncle Ray

I don't think we truly grasp the idea that life is a gift. I feel like I take day-to-day life for granted...you just never know when your last day on earth will be. You never know when God will call your number... it's incredibly sad.
I got into a discussion with some friends last night about my faith. I've always considered myself a Christian or someone who lives a Christian lifestyle. We are all sinners by nature and will always fall short of the glory of God, but through Jesus Christ, we are forgiven. It just made me think about my life, and all of my shortcomings. I also think it's sad that it has taken the death of a beloved uncle to "wake-up." I just feel like I don't always make the best decisions. I could go on and on.
Anyway, Uncle Ray's funeral is Saturday. It sounds so weird to say that phrase. I just don't think it has really sunk in, for anyone. Just incredibly sad. Please keep everyone in your prayers through this extremely difficult time. I'll write more later.

Rest in Peace, Uncle Ray. You were a wonderful, supportive, loving uncle. You have touched the lives of so many, and you will be greatly missed.

"My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past
Donate every dime you have?
If today was your last day

Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the prize is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you'll never live it twice
Don't take the free ride in your own life"

--Nickelback, various excerpts from their hit song "If Today was your Last Day"

Until next time,
supinlincoln