Those are Joel and Jessica's trail names--they're officially finished hiking all 2,170 miles of the Appalachian Trail (they finished the Sunday before my exams, actually). We had a party for them tonight here at home. Yeah, they're pretty much my heroes. Next they want to bike across America. Just kidding, but Jessica's mentioned it. I think I'll tag along :).
Tomorrow morning I'm setting off for Canada with my good friend Amy. We're visiting Ian, a friend I met in South Africa, for about three days, as well as Emily from Yellowstone in Buffalo, NY! I'm pumped--especially since this is a VERY last-minute trip and it all just came together, as everything usually does (isn't it amazing how that happens?) :). Knock on wood.
I spent last night near Athens, GA with my good friend Ellen and her friend Martha partying it up at an 80s prom! Seriously--we looked amazing :). Ellen and I have glasses and wore our hair in side-ponytails so we pretty much looked like twins. She wore an authentic black 80s dress and I wore a less authentic white one. I'll post pix later. We spent today meandering about the COOL town of Athens, thrift-store and botique shopping, coffee drinking, and trying to avoid the rain with Martha's dad's huge umbrella. Athens seems like a fun college town. Everyone I saw looked like my closer friends from Clemson: artsy-ish, scarf-donning, intelligent, English or graphic design majors. Athens has its sororities and fraternities, too, I've heard. And football fans. It's funny hearing Ellen's artsy guy friends talk about the UGA football game tonight. Why shouldn't artsy people like football? It's good to be well-rounded, right?
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Merry Christmas!
Christmas this year was delighful as usual. The only regret for everyone is that Alice was missing, and that we weren't on the Beach in Australia to hang out with her! We did our usual name-drawing on Thanksgiving and exchanged sister gifts Christmas Eve. I made photo albums for all the sisters for Christmas day. The took forever, so I hope they like them! :) Most of my gifts were hand-made or photographs this year... sorry--I'm broke.
It's wonderful having Grandpa here--he stays about two or three weeks every year. There's always laughter in his presence--actually, I can say that for the whole Droney family.
I've been sleeping in till at least 10:30 every morning... pretty much. Except for yesterday because I had a breakfast date (aren't breakfast dates fantastic? You HAVE to wake up early and get your day started. If I'm not meeting someone, I'll go ahead and sleep in. Call me and set up a breakfast date with me, now!). I say I'm still recuperating from this year's record high of all-nighters. I think I pulled one every other week--but you'd think I'd have recovered by now.
Other than sleeping in, I've been catching up with friends I haven't seen in ages: like Joy from Yellowstone! I saw her in Atlanta last week with her fiancee and his family, and our friend Ben from Asheville. And I saw Hannah, too! She got back from L'Abri the other week. I met her adorable Swedish boyfriend and went contra dancing with her family, whom I'm adopting as my own :). They don't know that yet. Also, Gideon (Alice's friend) came by two nights ago with Alice on the other end of his cell phone! We got to talk to her for a good while and catch up with Gideon, who's hoping to become and army ranger. That boy is HARD-CORE. He told us stories from his training that kind of opened up another world for me. I love when that happens--but the military is serious business; I love being exposed to a "new world," but a lot of his stories would be considered horrific to us (ie: non-military people). About a month ago I meant to blog about my new appreciation for the military after watching the opening clip of "Saving Private Ryan" in history class (US history 1919-1945) and reading "A Democracy at War"--a new favorite. Watch "Saving Private Ryan" and realize that the invasion of Normandy was pretty accurately depicted. Seasickness from a torrential storm. People dying before they'd even reached land. I have to say, WWII wasn't morally ambiguous. A point the book we read brought up was that if Nazi Germany had won the war, we'd be in the Dark Ages for a thousand years. The Holocaust would have continued. Normandy saved us. I am so deeply appreciative for our veterans.
Read up on the GI Bill, too and thank the American Legion your grandpa went to college (mine did because of it, anyway). That's a fascinating, indebting story. I'll tell you about it later, when you're older ;).
It's wonderful having Grandpa here--he stays about two or three weeks every year. There's always laughter in his presence--actually, I can say that for the whole Droney family.
I've been sleeping in till at least 10:30 every morning... pretty much. Except for yesterday because I had a breakfast date (aren't breakfast dates fantastic? You HAVE to wake up early and get your day started. If I'm not meeting someone, I'll go ahead and sleep in. Call me and set up a breakfast date with me, now!). I say I'm still recuperating from this year's record high of all-nighters. I think I pulled one every other week--but you'd think I'd have recovered by now.
Other than sleeping in, I've been catching up with friends I haven't seen in ages: like Joy from Yellowstone! I saw her in Atlanta last week with her fiancee and his family, and our friend Ben from Asheville. And I saw Hannah, too! She got back from L'Abri the other week. I met her adorable Swedish boyfriend and went contra dancing with her family, whom I'm adopting as my own :). They don't know that yet. Also, Gideon (Alice's friend) came by two nights ago with Alice on the other end of his cell phone! We got to talk to her for a good while and catch up with Gideon, who's hoping to become and army ranger. That boy is HARD-CORE. He told us stories from his training that kind of opened up another world for me. I love when that happens--but the military is serious business; I love being exposed to a "new world," but a lot of his stories would be considered horrific to us (ie: non-military people). About a month ago I meant to blog about my new appreciation for the military after watching the opening clip of "Saving Private Ryan" in history class (US history 1919-1945) and reading "A Democracy at War"--a new favorite. Watch "Saving Private Ryan" and realize that the invasion of Normandy was pretty accurately depicted. Seasickness from a torrential storm. People dying before they'd even reached land. I have to say, WWII wasn't morally ambiguous. A point the book we read brought up was that if Nazi Germany had won the war, we'd be in the Dark Ages for a thousand years. The Holocaust would have continued. Normandy saved us. I am so deeply appreciative for our veterans.
Read up on the GI Bill, too and thank the American Legion your grandpa went to college (mine did because of it, anyway). That's a fascinating, indebting story. I'll tell you about it later, when you're older ;).
Friday, December 15, 2006
Christmas Break
Half of my senior year is GONE. Oh, it's been such a good one--especially the past couple weeks. I kind of enjoy exam week: no classes, wake up kinda late, study, do last coffees of the year with friends, Christmas parties, etc. I think I did ok on exams, and hopefully on my art portfolio (because I pulled an all-nighter last night working on it) (probably shouldn't have gone snowboarding Wednesday!). Snowboarding--such fun! I went with Matt Cody, who's pretty good, and two other people. I probably wouldn't have carved or tried jumps if Matt hadn't made me. I definitely wouldn't have tried the jumps, actually :). It's so helpful snowboarding with people who are better than you.
Actually, it's helpful doing anything with people who are better than you at whatever you're doing. I remember studying 24 hours for my Western Civ. final with my roomie Kat last year and both of us acing it :). I probably wouldn't have studied that much on my own; I might have given up and taken a "B" in the class. But Kat's an excellent student and pushed me to "meet my potential." I wish I'd learned about study buddies earlier.
It sounds so cheezy, but do you know what a difference it makes when someone "believes in you"? I guess I'm a bit of a people pleaser, but if someone assumes I can do something great, I'll work harder to try to impress them and prove them right. But, did you know something most millionaires have in common? A "B-" college average, and someone who belittled them who they wanted to prove wrong.
Actually, it's helpful doing anything with people who are better than you at whatever you're doing. I remember studying 24 hours for my Western Civ. final with my roomie Kat last year and both of us acing it :). I probably wouldn't have studied that much on my own; I might have given up and taken a "B" in the class. But Kat's an excellent student and pushed me to "meet my potential." I wish I'd learned about study buddies earlier.
It sounds so cheezy, but do you know what a difference it makes when someone "believes in you"? I guess I'm a bit of a people pleaser, but if someone assumes I can do something great, I'll work harder to try to impress them and prove them right. But, did you know something most millionaires have in common? A "B-" college average, and someone who belittled them who they wanted to prove wrong.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving
We came up with Thanksgiving haikus after dinner this year, a sporadic Raff Thanksgiving tradition. Haikus should technically consist of three lines, the first line having five syllables, the second having seven and the third five. Here are a couple I wrote:
Remember the time
we got pizza in the car
on Thanksgiving day?
(We were on our way to Grandma's house in MD, late at night, and stopped at a gas station for a few of those freezer pizzas. We microwaved them and feasted in the car.)
She thought he was a
guru. Everything has changed.
Now he drinks and smokes.
(ha--that's about my parents. Mom was talking about how she thought Dad was a "guru," with that long hair and a beard. She still hates when Dad gets a haircut! It's fun writing haikus while people are talking.)
Our first Thanksgiving
without our baby Alice.
It isn't the same.
(Actually, it was our first Thanksgiving missing any of the sisters! It was sad!)
Here's a "minute" poem I wrote--we talked about feminism for a LONG time after Thanksgiving dinner. Oh, a minute poem has a total of sixty syllables. The first line of the first stanza has eight, then four for the next three lines. That's repeated thrice. And the rhyme scheme is AABB CCDD EEFF. My dad'd doing all these awesome poetry workshops and he taught us this form:
She was made to complete him.
The fruit eaten
opened her eyes
to become wise.
Created complete already,
she'd never see
the blessings of
the curse of love.
She would give to her children all,
and since the Fall
she's strived against
Adam, incensed.
PS--very much inspired by my Milton class, and my lit. theory class.
Here's something Dad learned in one of his poetry workshops. Most people are strongest writers in one of the following areas: narrative (story), structure (form), music (sound/rhythm) or imagination (images). If you're strength lies in either narrative or structure, you should try to incorporate either music or imagination in your poem for a complete poem, and vice-versa. I thought that was interesting. Dad's written some beautiful poetry, and Mom has, as well. She always has had a way with words.
Here's a... fun? depressing? tragic? poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay:
Oh, oh, you will be sorry for that word!
Give back my books and take my kiss instead.
Was it my enemy or my friend I heard,
"What a big book for such a little head!"
Come, I will show you now my newest hat,
And you may watch me purse my mouth and prink!
Oh, I shall love you still, and all of that.
I never again shall tell you what I think.
I shall be sweet and crafty, soft and sly;
You will not catch me reading any more:
I shall be called a wife to pattern by;
And some day when you knock and push the door,
Some sane day, not too bright and not too stormy,
I shall be gone, and you may whistle for me.
Ouch!
Clemson-USC game tomorrow. We win every year, so we better tomorrow.
Remember the time
we got pizza in the car
on Thanksgiving day?
(We were on our way to Grandma's house in MD, late at night, and stopped at a gas station for a few of those freezer pizzas. We microwaved them and feasted in the car.)
She thought he was a
guru. Everything has changed.
Now he drinks and smokes.
(ha--that's about my parents. Mom was talking about how she thought Dad was a "guru," with that long hair and a beard. She still hates when Dad gets a haircut! It's fun writing haikus while people are talking.)
Our first Thanksgiving
without our baby Alice.
It isn't the same.
(Actually, it was our first Thanksgiving missing any of the sisters! It was sad!)
Here's a "minute" poem I wrote--we talked about feminism for a LONG time after Thanksgiving dinner. Oh, a minute poem has a total of sixty syllables. The first line of the first stanza has eight, then four for the next three lines. That's repeated thrice. And the rhyme scheme is AABB CCDD EEFF. My dad'd doing all these awesome poetry workshops and he taught us this form:
She was made to complete him.
The fruit eaten
opened her eyes
to become wise.
Created complete already,
she'd never see
the blessings of
the curse of love.
She would give to her children all,
and since the Fall
she's strived against
Adam, incensed.
PS--very much inspired by my Milton class, and my lit. theory class.
Here's something Dad learned in one of his poetry workshops. Most people are strongest writers in one of the following areas: narrative (story), structure (form), music (sound/rhythm) or imagination (images). If you're strength lies in either narrative or structure, you should try to incorporate either music or imagination in your poem for a complete poem, and vice-versa. I thought that was interesting. Dad's written some beautiful poetry, and Mom has, as well. She always has had a way with words.
Here's a... fun? depressing? tragic? poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay:
Oh, oh, you will be sorry for that word!
Give back my books and take my kiss instead.
Was it my enemy or my friend I heard,
"What a big book for such a little head!"
Come, I will show you now my newest hat,
And you may watch me purse my mouth and prink!
Oh, I shall love you still, and all of that.
I never again shall tell you what I think.
I shall be sweet and crafty, soft and sly;
You will not catch me reading any more:
I shall be called a wife to pattern by;
And some day when you knock and push the door,
Some sane day, not too bright and not too stormy,
I shall be gone, and you may whistle for me.
Ouch!
Clemson-USC game tomorrow. We win every year, so we better tomorrow.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Friday, November 17, 2006
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Procrastinating
I always want to blog when I have a big project coming up soon... Monday my first value drawing is due--we've been working on line drawings up to this point. So, of course, I'd rather go to the football game, take a nap, practice guitar, read a book on the art of travel, and blog than work on my impending project. Does that mean I don't love art? I think I love the final product, most of the time, but the process of getting to it can be excruciating. Does that mean I shouldn't pursue art as a career? I've been thinking about art education. I've also been thinking of a summer internship with Food for the Hungry, L'Abri, six months as a "host" at a trade school taking classes for free, and teaching in Prague for six months with Rebekah and John! So many options--so many different ways life could take me, especially depending on who I happen to meet at each place who could lead me to my next destination. I recently decided to try to do as much cheap/free living as possible in the next, say, four years. For example, that trade school--I can stay on the campus and take classes for free if I'm a "host" there--kind of like an RA. If I wanted to get a masters in America, I could be a Resident Director and practically go to the school for free, at some universities. And, I need to research this (a LOT) but my study abroad advisor told me that Swedish universities are FREE for getting your masters, if you already have an undergrad degree. So, Sweden would be pretty awesome. And most of the master's programs are in English :).
There are so many amazing causes/ministries I could pour my life into. Like Food for the Hungry, or rebuilding New Orleans (I don't know how long that will take--I think a while). I went down to New Orleans with Campus Crusade over the fall break. Fellowshipped with some pretty incredible people. It was definitely hard work, and honestly, a little depressing. The elderly woman who owned the house we were working on actually passed away in the flood. She had been picked up by boaters when they heard her screaming in her house, but had a heart attack as she was mounting on a bridge. Oh, that was so sad. And the house itself seemed unsalvagable. We gutted it out (insurance can't cover tearing down houses, which is necessary for rebuilding them). When we got to the wood layer of the floor and walls, we noticed the wood was either termite-infested or burned (I don't know how). I felt like it should have been bulldozed, but if they rebuilt it, it could be really nice. It seemed like it would take more effort that it was worth. Thoughts running through my mind as we pulled her stuff out of her house: Why does she have so much STUFF? I want to live, like Paul in "Through Painted Deserts," with only the clothes on my back (Oh, I read that book when I was there--recommend it, though some of Miller's ideas are weird or incomplete to me.) Another thought, digging through this woman's stuff: this is her whole life--and we're throwing most of it away. What did it mean? She's gone now and this stuff doesn't matter. In sixty years, I don't want to say I've wasted my life. I'm already, possibly, a quarter through it. Maybe more. I hate ending on a morbid note--we won the football game today! Some people live for that--the "weekend." Waiting in line to get into the club, where you can't hear yourself speak or think. Watching them tigers beat them gamecocks. I think there's gotta be more. I could go on--having fun is good. God wants us to enjoy life. But there are more ways to enjoy than hating the week and living for the weekend. I guess that means I should enjoy the process of art projects more, too.
There are so many amazing causes/ministries I could pour my life into. Like Food for the Hungry, or rebuilding New Orleans (I don't know how long that will take--I think a while). I went down to New Orleans with Campus Crusade over the fall break. Fellowshipped with some pretty incredible people. It was definitely hard work, and honestly, a little depressing. The elderly woman who owned the house we were working on actually passed away in the flood. She had been picked up by boaters when they heard her screaming in her house, but had a heart attack as she was mounting on a bridge. Oh, that was so sad. And the house itself seemed unsalvagable. We gutted it out (insurance can't cover tearing down houses, which is necessary for rebuilding them). When we got to the wood layer of the floor and walls, we noticed the wood was either termite-infested or burned (I don't know how). I felt like it should have been bulldozed, but if they rebuilt it, it could be really nice. It seemed like it would take more effort that it was worth. Thoughts running through my mind as we pulled her stuff out of her house: Why does she have so much STUFF? I want to live, like Paul in "Through Painted Deserts," with only the clothes on my back (Oh, I read that book when I was there--recommend it, though some of Miller's ideas are weird or incomplete to me.) Another thought, digging through this woman's stuff: this is her whole life--and we're throwing most of it away. What did it mean? She's gone now and this stuff doesn't matter. In sixty years, I don't want to say I've wasted my life. I'm already, possibly, a quarter through it. Maybe more. I hate ending on a morbid note--we won the football game today! Some people live for that--the "weekend." Waiting in line to get into the club, where you can't hear yourself speak or think. Watching them tigers beat them gamecocks. I think there's gotta be more. I could go on--having fun is good. God wants us to enjoy life. But there are more ways to enjoy than hating the week and living for the weekend. I guess that means I should enjoy the process of art projects more, too.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
For good or for awesome
I went to another lovely wedding last weekend--for one of my residents last semester, Justin, and his new wife Erin. They're beautiful people. And, I noticed everyone invited to the wedding was also beautiful! :) Ha--I especially mean the middle aged people. Both of their sets of parents were so nice-looking! Um, anyway...
I didn't do anything for Halloween yesterday. Well, I wore my mom's old hippie shirt to class, but that's all. I've been a little sick yesterday and today. I just read a REALLY interesting NY Times article on how women's Halloween costumes have gotten skankier, just in the last few years, which is surprising since you'd think with the feminist movement they'd be getting more androgynous. It's kind of interesting how feminism and conservatism could be like-minded on a lot of issues. Or, at least, appear to be (maybe having different motivations). Feminism is definitely appealing to me more and more these days. I don't really mean the feminism that says that women are better than men, but the kind that recognizes we're equal--not exactly the same, but equally valuable as people. Women can think, too. I'm pretty sure I didn't always recognize/appreciate that.
Eleanor Roosevelt: I'm reading a bio on her for history, and, what a fascinating first lady. She's the only first lady I know of who published her disagreements with her husband! She was a pretty special woman, I'd say.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Love
I have a friend who knows how to love people. He goes far out of his way to share grace with the needy, even if they never see it. I find myself absorbed in what I'm doing, unwilling to drive forty-five minutes to help a friend, much less five hours; or to stop and walk with a friend who might need to talk. Being hospitable to Chinese exchange students. Well, I thought of him when I read this the other week: "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. . . . Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Rom 12: 9-21)
The wedding
reunion
a rose among thornsRebekah and John's wedding this past weekend was worshipful and beautiful. I love fall weddings (by the way, with weddings, I think October is becoming the new June). What a perfect day--the sky as clear as a bell. Rebekah looked stunning--I mean, stunning--in her cream antique lace gown. The bridesmaids didn't look so bad, either, I must say. It was just nice to see people I haven't seen in a while: Michael, Heather, Michael, Jessica, Sarah, Gracen, etc. The song "Old Friends" feels appropriate here.
This was the first friend's wedding I've ever been a bridesmaid in. The wedding party arrived at 10 am for the 4:00 ceremony, which was early, but good (ha, for me). Michael and Phil got to take a lot of "fun" pictures with us since we had some spare time. Photo shoots are always exciting. And, of course, Sarah and I had our own little photo shoot off to the side as Rebekah was having her solo portraits done. We are such nerds.
Oh--I wish I were in Italy/Switzerland right now! I got an email from my dear friend Hannah last week and, read this--does this not make you want to hop on a plane and head for L'Abri?
Hello friends and family,
I haven't been as diligent with the emailing as i hoped i would be, but here i am with free internet and 20 minutes on my hand, so here it goes! Life at L'Abri in Switzerland has been really, really wonderful. It's cold there....i get to put on sweaters and scarves nearly every day, and the leaves are turning brilliant colors. My studying is getting more and more enjoyable as i get a feel for what i want to learn. It's a very productive and cozy way to study to fix a cup of tea, wrap yourself in a wool blanket, and settle into a comfy chair with a good book. Community life (with 34 housemates) is going well. I love all the people there, each so different, and there is always something crazy and fun going on. (or quiet and relaxing....our new favorite evening activity is where someone reads aloud from a children's book and we all sit around and knit:)
Our fall break began thursday, so i am currently writing from Florence, Italy. WOW!! i can't believe i'm here. My friend Sara, who i met at L'Abri, and i took off for Cinque Terra, Italy on wednesday afternoon. It's like, one minute you're in the alps, and a few hours later on the coast of the Mediterranean. Cinque Terra, for those who haven't heard of it, is a string of 5 small fishing villages set in the cliffs, and there are beautiful hiking trails to connect the towns. I was in HEAVEN admiring everyone's terraced gardens full of basil, tomatoes, lemon trees, and olive trees. The climate is so mild there so the growing season has huge potential. We ate pesto and fresh, fresh seafood, and had great red wine!! we stayed last night in a beautiful, quaint room at the top of one of those classic, tall, brightly colored buildings that are scattered all over. We even got to hang some laundry to dry outside our window like the locals!! (it was pretty exciting, but we know we're dorky) Actually, this morning some American tourists took my picture when i was leaning out our window. They must have thought i was a local. :) Yesterday we did a lot of hiking and even swam in the ocean!! It was so beautiful...greenish blue, clear, and very salty.
Today we took a train to Florence and are getting to stay for free with some of Sara's friends from college. Tomorrow we'll visit the market and then i'll head to Tuscany to poke around before flying to Ireland for a few days!! i feel so very blessed to be able to see and experience all that i am. I wish i knew some Italian...the older people don't know any English...or perhaps they don't want to stoop to that level. :)
Ok, i think it's time for dinner. I just wanted to catch you all up on my life a bit. Sorry for the impersonal nature of the mass email. Time and opportunity are scarcities!!
love you all,
Hannah
Monday, October 09, 2006
Leah's wedding
To everyone who's invited: Leah's wedding date is changing from June 9 to June 2, 2007. I can't wait to see the relatives again! Woohoo!
Sunday, October 01, 2006
RUF Retreat, etc.
Leigh and me at Botanical Gardens!
phenomenal women at the Retreat :)I love camp. This weekend I went to Camp Greystone for an RUF retreat. It was amazing! Our speaker talked about how the Word and Christ are inseparable, and other rich truths. Indelible Grace music is so encouraging, too. And the goodtheology.com book vendor? Oh, yeah. I hung out with a lot of underclassmen girls, who were awesome! I can’t believe these people weren’t in my life till this weekend! The retreat last year is where I met Hannah and Biz, by the way. One short year ago!
Free time! Those two words—music to my ears. Leigh and I studied, then took naps in the sun by the lake. I knew I wouldn’t regret it, so I did the blob and went down this huge waterslide three times! Such fun—such invigorating freezing cold water (but nothing compared to Yellowstone)!
By the way: I’ve found myself making quite a few of my decisions based on this question: Would I regret (not) doing this? Ignoring it has hurt me, but asking it has saved me a few times.
Before I left for South Africa, everyone at my going away party wrote advice/notes to me in these tiny books Rebekah bought. I’ll never forget Sid’s message: “If you feel indifferent between socializing and being alone, always be with people,” or something to that effect. I’ve tried to remember his advice. I’ve hardly ever regretted introducing myself to a stranger, or getting to know someone better, but I have regretted not encouraging someone when I felt the Spirit’s leading.
New leaves: change. Fall’s about change. Can people change? I remember times of change—my parents taking me seriously when I talked about a new chapter in life. But I remember thinking I had changed when, maybe, I really hadn’t. Five percent of people change socioeconomic classes in a lifetime. But, in the past year, I’ve changed, especially through wondrous new friends. I can’t believe it’s been less than a year. So much more to say on this, but I have an 8:00 tomorrow morning!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Good weekend
One of my best friends Hannah left for L'Abri in Switzerland yesterday. I am going to miss that girl! But I am so excited to see how she'll have grown once she's done with the program there. Wow--the Schaeffers influenced so many different people. Right now I'm reading "Total Truth" by Nancy Pearcey, who was converted at L'Abri when Francis was still around. Edith is 92 years old now and lives at the L'Abri in Switzerland. Hannah said she still attends lectures, but she's definitely getting up there in years! I wonder if she's still as sharp as ever. So, I spent all day Saturday with Hannah. We went to Art in the Park in Greenville, hung out with her large family (yes--I love big families!), then went contra-dancing with her two little brothers. It was SUCH fun--the entire day. The previous night we went to the UNC-Clemson soccer game. Winning to UNC was pretty exciting! We're rank #2 and they're #5 in the nation. It was the second-largest attended soccer game in Clemson's history. We celebrated Amy's birthday after the game. Amy and I made the "dessert exception" of baklava for her birthday, which was delightful! Even more amazing microwaved--have you ever tried that?
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Boston
Ah--I had such a wonderful time visiting my relatives in Boston over the weekend! I arrived there Thursday morning around 11:00, after waking up at 3:00 am to drive to the Charlotte airport (you know those days where the morning seems like SUCH a long time ago? That was one of them!). Some of the members of the group I was with toured Harvard's campus for the day, but my sub-group went to Cheers for lunch then walked around the Boston Commons--a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. I love the swan boats! I remember riding them when I was little! We also went SHOPPING. I wish upstate SC had an H&M and an Urban Outfitters :)! Friday night the group of us did dinner at Legal Seafoods--a super fancy restaurant with lobster that's to die for! The Barkers dropped in and chatted with us for a little while, so we HAD to get our pictures taken with them. They're so nice, by the way. They definitely don't act like they have a million other obligations that night, which I'm sure they had, being the president and first lady of Clemson and all.
At Legal with the Barkers
Friday morning Uncle Doug picked up Aunt Colleen and me for some kayaking on the Charles River. It was perfect--early fall in Boston, the morning, the lily pads, the incredible company. Ha--a lot more relaxing than whitewater kayaking down Yankee Jim Canyon in Montana! Aunt Colleen took me on a nice long walk in some woods near their house that afternoon. That's one of the nice things about the Boston area--it's a big city, but nature is still pretty accessible. The White Mountains of Vermont are only three hours away, and the beach is close, too. Uncle John thinks that's what makes it a great city, plus the amazing academic opportunities there. There's no city like it--with Harvard, MIT, BU, BC, Tufts, Wellsley, etc. in the city or surrounding cities, goodness. Did you know the population of the city increases by 1.2 million in the fall because of all the students coming back to school? That's pretty sweet.
Beautiful Aunt Colleen and Irene
Friday night I had a delightful time with Emily from Yellowstone! She's in seminary at BU. She, her twin sister Laura, Laura's boyfriend and I ate dinner at a delectable Indian restaurant then . . . had DESSERT at Mike's pastries--which, I know I'm on a dessert abstinence thing till Thanksgiving, but I considered it heavily and decided this would be an appropriate exception. Ummm... anyway! Aunt Colleen and Uncle John said it was ok, only because it's Mike's pastries. I spent the night at Emily's apartment near Bunker Hill. She and I had a great time catching up. Girl talk ROCKS!
Emily and me at Cashmere's
Saturday Aunt Tricia, Aunt Colleen and I went to get manicures and pedicures in Tricia's sporty yellow VW convertible. We then went to this adorable tea house for lunch. It was de-LIGHT-ful. I sat with the Clemson group at the game while Uncle John and Uncle Doug sat on the 9th row. John has a hookup for awesome seats from a "triple eagle"--a friend of his who went to Boston College high school, Boston College, and Boston College law school. Clemson lost to BC by one point in double overtime. It was heartbreaking :(. Especially since about a fourth of the stadium consisted of Clemson fans! I was a proud tiger. Uncle Doug and Uncle John were good winners, I guess :).
Hannah is back from her organic farm in VA! So last night we had a welcome back / going away party here (she leaves for L'Abri in a week). It was so good to see her and have her spend the night. Again, girl talk rocks!
Hannah's get-together
At Legal with the BarkersFriday morning Uncle Doug picked up Aunt Colleen and me for some kayaking on the Charles River. It was perfect--early fall in Boston, the morning, the lily pads, the incredible company. Ha--a lot more relaxing than whitewater kayaking down Yankee Jim Canyon in Montana! Aunt Colleen took me on a nice long walk in some woods near their house that afternoon. That's one of the nice things about the Boston area--it's a big city, but nature is still pretty accessible. The White Mountains of Vermont are only three hours away, and the beach is close, too. Uncle John thinks that's what makes it a great city, plus the amazing academic opportunities there. There's no city like it--with Harvard, MIT, BU, BC, Tufts, Wellsley, etc. in the city or surrounding cities, goodness. Did you know the population of the city increases by 1.2 million in the fall because of all the students coming back to school? That's pretty sweet.
Beautiful Aunt Colleen and IreneFriday night I had a delightful time with Emily from Yellowstone! She's in seminary at BU. She, her twin sister Laura, Laura's boyfriend and I ate dinner at a delectable Indian restaurant then . . . had DESSERT at Mike's pastries--which, I know I'm on a dessert abstinence thing till Thanksgiving, but I considered it heavily and decided this would be an appropriate exception. Ummm... anyway! Aunt Colleen and Uncle John said it was ok, only because it's Mike's pastries. I spent the night at Emily's apartment near Bunker Hill. She and I had a great time catching up. Girl talk ROCKS!
Emily and me at Cashmere'sSaturday Aunt Tricia, Aunt Colleen and I went to get manicures and pedicures in Tricia's sporty yellow VW convertible. We then went to this adorable tea house for lunch. It was de-LIGHT-ful. I sat with the Clemson group at the game while Uncle John and Uncle Doug sat on the 9th row. John has a hookup for awesome seats from a "triple eagle"--a friend of his who went to Boston College high school, Boston College, and Boston College law school. Clemson lost to BC by one point in double overtime. It was heartbreaking :(. Especially since about a fourth of the stadium consisted of Clemson fans! I was a proud tiger. Uncle Doug and Uncle John were good winners, I guess :).
Hannah is back from her organic farm in VA! So last night we had a welcome back / going away party here (she leaves for L'Abri in a week). It was so good to see her and have her spend the night. Again, girl talk rocks!
Hannah's get-together
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Happy Clemson Students
(click title)
Now I'm even HAPPIER to be a Clemson student! :) I thought this was a cool article.
Happy Clemson Students! (Bible study girls at a wedding shower)
Oh--and I'm so excited about Boston this weekend. I get to visit Emily at BU, Seth at Harvard, and my awesome relatives again! Yay!
Now I'm even HAPPIER to be a Clemson student! :) I thought this was a cool article.
Happy Clemson Students! (Bible study girls at a wedding shower)Oh--and I'm so excited about Boston this weekend. I get to visit Emily at BU, Seth at Harvard, and my awesome relatives again! Yay!
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Saturday, September 02, 2006
September
Storm Brewing over our apartments
My room
Last hoorah with AmyThe first whole week of school was so nice. It was especially wonderful catching up with Amy Etheredge, who was doing an internship all last semester. However, I miss Hannah and Biz (they're both studying abroad--Hannah's still at her organic farm in VA), and am kind of disappointed I'm not studying abroad in Prague or somewhere cool like that this semester. But I'm excited to build on relationships started last year. I'm thinking of graduating a semester late and studying abroad next fall--perhaps in some French-speaking country? French is probably the class I'm the most excited about right now. I'm also SO excited about my US history 1917-1945 class. I had Dr. Saunders for History of Civ. last fall and the man is a genius. History is so fascinating and exciting!
Amy and I decided to abstain from desserts until Thanksgiving, starting yesterday. She challenged me to do it with her last year, from the beginning of November till Thanksgiving, as a reminder of how much we have/should be thankful for. So, of course, Thursday night we had a "Cate and Amy date"--we dressed up and went to Calhoun Corners, a fancy restaurant down the road from me, and enjoyed creme brulee cheesecake and Irish cream cake with coffee. It was a delightful last hoorah :). And I'm already craving the Heath bars that grace the coffee table in the living room! This isn't going to be easy!
Today was the first football game. I didn't go because I felt sick :(. But, I am hoping to go to the Clemson v. Boston College game in Boston next weekend! I'm so excited to see my aunts and uncles and Irene again--and Emily from Yellowstone! woo-hoo!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
backtracking
Ah—so much to say, so little time. Should I start now and go backwards? Today is my last second day of school. I love the beginning—of everything. I love the beginning of the school year: walking across the library bridge and seeing acquaintances I might have forgotten, and friends I haven’t seen all summer. The anticipation at the beginning. You think it might be perfect. I’ve always thought Christmas Eve is a little bit more exciting than Christmas. I love receiving the new syllabus in class but not having a lecture. Except for Dr. Morrissey’s class. Milton should be exciting. Talk about reading closely! In a poem with 12,000 lines, try to catch this:
He with Olympias, this with her who bore
Scipio the height of Rome. With tract oblique
At first, as one who sought access, but feared
To interrupt, sidelong he works his way.
As when a ship by skilful steersman wrought
Nigh river’s mouth or foreland, where the wind
Veers oft, as oft so steers, as shifts her sail.
Look at the acrostic he creates. Who's Milton talking about? What a genius! “He’s a great writer because of the extraordinary reading he’s asking us to do.”
Today is the only day I’ll be 22 years and three days old—I need to live it up! ☺ My 22nd birthday was delightful. I love that my birthday is in August. My parties act as a reunion of friends I haven’t seen in sometimes a whole year, or more. Birthdays are the rare days all of the sisters are together, too. So of course, we take a few sister pictures that we might send in our Christmas cards this year. Watch out!
sisters partying down :)!
Last week we had a family reunion with the amazing Droney side of the family. No joke: all of my relatives are the coolest people in the world. I think I’m being objective when I say that! They’re so full of life and laughter and creativity and kindness. My little cousin Irene is now thirteen! She’s so talented and smart and is becoming a Renaissance girl. She and her friends are independently putting on a performance of “Rent”—which is like two hours long? Quite the feat. Go Irene! Isle of Palms was such a relaxing break from working at Yellowstone. The only work I did was on my tan. I practiced guitar and didn’t get much reading done at all. Which is bad, but there are so many lovely people to talk to. Oh—and we ate, a lot. Grandma’s spaghetti—it’s second to none. The Irish party the first night and the talent show the last night were what family reunions are made of.
my cousin and I kissing a lucky leprechaun
Something really funny: I’d always thought that we’d had several family reunions growing up before Anna’s wedding in 2000. I have so many memories from them: making piñatas with Aunt Colleen, beauty night, the Jacuzzi, this fishing pole I got for my birthday, a coconut bunny rabbit birthday cake, an oldies dance night, the “ballerina mouse” club, waves that tumbled you on the way down. Turns out, we only had one family reunion before Anna’s wedding—this was our third one. I told Jessica that and she, also, remembered several! Do you know how disorienting that is? Good thing we’re not writing our family’s history! I still can’t get over it.
Jess and Joel back from the AT for the week!
Oh, by the way, my friend John and I bought goldfish together and MINE DIED! And we painted my room orange--it looks great.
He with Olympias, this with her who bore
Scipio the height of Rome. With tract oblique
At first, as one who sought access, but feared
To interrupt, sidelong he works his way.
As when a ship by skilful steersman wrought
Nigh river’s mouth or foreland, where the wind
Veers oft, as oft so steers, as shifts her sail.
Look at the acrostic he creates. Who's Milton talking about? What a genius! “He’s a great writer because of the extraordinary reading he’s asking us to do.”
Today is the only day I’ll be 22 years and three days old—I need to live it up! ☺ My 22nd birthday was delightful. I love that my birthday is in August. My parties act as a reunion of friends I haven’t seen in sometimes a whole year, or more. Birthdays are the rare days all of the sisters are together, too. So of course, we take a few sister pictures that we might send in our Christmas cards this year. Watch out!
sisters partying down :)!Last week we had a family reunion with the amazing Droney side of the family. No joke: all of my relatives are the coolest people in the world. I think I’m being objective when I say that! They’re so full of life and laughter and creativity and kindness. My little cousin Irene is now thirteen! She’s so talented and smart and is becoming a Renaissance girl. She and her friends are independently putting on a performance of “Rent”—which is like two hours long? Quite the feat. Go Irene! Isle of Palms was such a relaxing break from working at Yellowstone. The only work I did was on my tan. I practiced guitar and didn’t get much reading done at all. Which is bad, but there are so many lovely people to talk to. Oh—and we ate, a lot. Grandma’s spaghetti—it’s second to none. The Irish party the first night and the talent show the last night were what family reunions are made of.
my cousin and I kissing a lucky leprechaunSomething really funny: I’d always thought that we’d had several family reunions growing up before Anna’s wedding in 2000. I have so many memories from them: making piñatas with Aunt Colleen, beauty night, the Jacuzzi, this fishing pole I got for my birthday, a coconut bunny rabbit birthday cake, an oldies dance night, the “ballerina mouse” club, waves that tumbled you on the way down. Turns out, we only had one family reunion before Anna’s wedding—this was our third one. I told Jessica that and she, also, remembered several! Do you know how disorienting that is? Good thing we’re not writing our family’s history! I still can’t get over it.
Jess and Joel back from the AT for the week!Oh, by the way, my friend John and I bought goldfish together and MINE DIED! And we painted my room orange--it looks great.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Home again, home again, jiggidy jig
I flew home the day the country was on "orange alert"--we couldn't bring toothpaste, water, perfume, makeup, or any gels on the airplane. I left at 1 pm and didn't get back home till 4:30 am the next morning, largely due to delays in Atlanta. People say their flights always get delayed in Atlanta! I didn't think it'd be delayed three hours! It definitely could have been worse!
Today I'm off to a family reunion--I can't wait to see the coolest people in the world: my aunts and uncles, and grandpa and great aunt, and two cousins. It should be fun times.
Yesterday my friend Joy from YNP was visiting Asheville, NC, with her fiancee and I decided to go up and meet them! When else are Joy and I going to be only an hour away from each other? It was wonderful swimming Lake James with Joy. We got pizza at Barley's last night then conked out during a movie.
My last five days at Yellowstone were pretty "hard core"! I backpacked to Union Falls with five other people (Julie, Knowels, Eva, Missy and Andrew). The falls were beautiful, and swimming in a warm river by this waterfall was so relaxing. Monday I checked off "fly fishing" from my to-do list! Andrew (who went to Furman and is moving to China to teach English! cool) taught me how to fly fish in the Lamar River. The Lamar Valley is famous for its fishing and wildlife. I didn't catch anything, unfortunately. We have to de-barb our lines in Yellowstone, but I came so close!My last day off was spent kayaking with Rick. He took me down Yankee Jim Canyon--a pretty challenging course (level three rapids). The "big" wave was about halfway down our five-mile stretch. We had to avoid the boulder on our left and nosedive straight into this killer wave, which was probably about four to five feet higher than my kayak! I got soaked, but didn't flip, fortunately! Rick's a great guide. A few minutes later I got caught in a hole (the spot after a rock) and flipped my kayak. Being underwater without a breathing apparatus is always scary--it's even scary WITH a breathing apparatus!). I followed Rick's instructions and tapped my head twice (to mentally regain control), pulled the hook on my skirt, and pushed myself out of the kayak. I felt pretty dumb for surviving the big wave then hitting a hole. I had to swim that stretch of rapids, keeping my feet in front of me and holding onto my boat and paddle (no--I lost my paddle. Rick had to find it!). We pulled off to the side of the river and dumped the water out of my boat, then hit the river again. It was exhausting! The embarrassing thing was that I flipped two more times, the third time only thirty seconds after the second time. I think that first flip messed me up: it made me self conscious and afraid, and therefore more prone to flippage :).
Tuesday night I finally took advantage of my free cookout ride! I went with Andrew and Glenn, two YPSS (gas station) employees. By the way, YPSS people are all COOL. Xanterra's so big you never know what kind of people you'll be working with, but YPSS throroughly checks all of their employees. There are only about forty of them in the whole park. They don't feel dehumanized at work, like I often have! Cookout was great: all-you-can-eat steak, apple pie, cole slaw, cornbread muffins (!!) (we love cornbread muffins!), Roosevelt beans, and "cowboy coffee," coffee so strong you can bite into it, almost. When I was still in the dish pit, I asked one of the cookout workers why all the coffee mugs has coffee grounds in them. He said they call it "cowboy coffee" and people fall for it :). It was ok. I'm not much of a coffee person, though.
Wednesday was my last day of work. I took advantage of the morning and hiked Avalanche Peak with Rick. Avalanche is everyone's favorite day hike, and I hadn't done it yet! We met at 5:40 am, booked it up the mountain, took pictures, and literally ran down the mountian. I skipped parts of it, actually :). Skipping's easier than running down a mountain.
My last night was spent at a YPSS party. Julie Jabs (a Xanterra employee) came with me and Anju and Andrew to the YPSS dorms at Old Faithful. Julie and I met this lady Sally at the party who volunteered to help me check off two more items on my to-do list: seeing Grand Prismatic and the historic Old Faithful Inn--both beautiful sights. I'm so glad I got to pack those in!
Julie and I pulled an all-nighter that night, burning each other's music and packing! It was hard to say goodbye to my buddies at seven o'clock the next morning. Bittersweet. I'll visit again, I'm sure. I've had that experience so many times: when you realize you'll never be with the same group of people again. I think it's starting to hit me that it's just a fact of life--you can't stay close to everyone. It's ok. I think.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Checklist
A week from today I will have left this natural theme park they call Yellowstone. I'm a little sad about it. There's so much left for me to do here: climb Electric Peak, backpack to "Mr. Bubble," hike to Osprey Falls, see the Grand Prismatic spring, go on the cookout ride that Roosevelt is famous for. Oh--go to Glacier National Park! Eight hours away, but so out of the way from everything else, you practically have to go through Yellowstone to see it. And it sounds so pristine. People love it even more than here. But Monday I got to check off a lot of things from my "to-do list" here! My friend Rick, who cooks and serves with me (and has ridden a bike across the country, been a school bus driver, and a white water rafting guide--he's done a lot) took me white water kayaking in the morning. He first taught me how to get out of a kayak if it flips: tap your helmet twice (just to calm yourself down), pull your skirt, then push yourself out of the kayak while holding onto you paddle the whole time. He flipped me once and made me practice, then I flipped myself the second time. It was kind of scary, but I survived that part. Then he took me down the Yellowstone River--which has some pretty sweet rapids! You have to watch out for "holes" in the river, where you can get sucked in and flipped over pretty easily. I didn't flip the whole time. Oh--and it started hailing as we kayaked down the river (about five miles). Rick said I was good for a first-timer (thanks to practicing kayaking at Robin Buiter's lake house!), and the course we ran was fairly challenging. We went to Helen's for lunch--it's this burger shack in Gardener. Having a 1/2 lb. burger there is a must for Yellowstone employees! I had an elk burger but took a bite of Rick's bison and bacon burger. Good stuff! Then we soaked our weary limbs in the Boiling River--probably one of my new favorite spots in the world! Hot waterfalls flow into the river and you can sit and relax there for hours. It was pretty crowded, but so nice. We both worked dinner shift that night. I'd call it a pretty productive day! I will try to post pictures soon! The Wi-fi in Mammoth is pretty slow, so every time I try to post one, it takes about 15 minutes. But I'll try again soon! :) I miss everyone and am excited to be back home soon.
Monday, July 31, 2006
The Latest
I can't believe my summer in Yellowstone is coming to a close in less than two weeks! Working here has been a surreal experience. I think I'll look back on this summer as being pretty magical--though, I'll admit, there have been times I've wanted to pull my hair out from the stress of work. Ah--the Beartooths, geysers, and hikes made the triple shifts worth the stress!
Saturday night Julie (from Wisconsin), Jean (from France) (who's teaching me French!) and I went to the rodeo in Cody--my second time, and Jean's first-ever rodeo. Julie and I had to take Jean to Dairy Queen afterwards for a real American experience--the blizzard! Delicious :). Yesterday I worked pretty much all afternoon and evening, with a small break in between lunch and dinner--just long enough to call my friend John Barnett, who's maybe visiting my last five days here... should be pretty awesome!
People around here are starting to leave. Tonight there's a going away party for Lisa, one of the hostesses at the restaurant. And tomorrow is August first--so strange how quickly and slowly time passes.
Two days ago my friends Karin and Simeon were married. I wished I were in Sweden :). The same day my friend Jillian, who I also met in South Africa, got married in WV. Congrats to both couples!
Thanks, everyone, for your kind cards and gifts and care packages with peanut butter products, etc. I love them!
Saturday night Julie (from Wisconsin), Jean (from France) (who's teaching me French!) and I went to the rodeo in Cody--my second time, and Jean's first-ever rodeo. Julie and I had to take Jean to Dairy Queen afterwards for a real American experience--the blizzard! Delicious :). Yesterday I worked pretty much all afternoon and evening, with a small break in between lunch and dinner--just long enough to call my friend John Barnett, who's maybe visiting my last five days here... should be pretty awesome!
People around here are starting to leave. Tonight there's a going away party for Lisa, one of the hostesses at the restaurant. And tomorrow is August first--so strange how quickly and slowly time passes.
Two days ago my friends Karin and Simeon were married. I wished I were in Sweden :). The same day my friend Jillian, who I also met in South Africa, got married in WV. Congrats to both couples!
Thanks, everyone, for your kind cards and gifts and care packages with peanut butter products, etc. I love them!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Beartooths
So, I managed to finagle SIX WHOLE DAYS OFF last week, four of which were spent backpacking in the Beartooth Mountains (Northeast of the park) with my good friends Emily, Lindsay, and our new friend Pete. Honestly, I felt guilty taking six days off (!!), but I think taking the trip was the best decision I've made here thus far. The Beartooths are absolutely gorgeous! We camped at Fox Lake the first night, only about a two-hour hike in from the trailhead. I just got my new hiking boots from Sierra Trading Post and hadn't worn them in at all, so my feet were getting blisters. Emily, our fearless leader (who is also trained in LNT--"leave no trace" backpacking, where you pack in and pack out almost everything), bandaged them up with Duct tape. Day two we hiked eight hours to the beautiful Dewey Lake. We were amazed as each hill we crested revealed a more beautiful panorama than the last. On the way we sledded down a snow-covered hill with the spare trash bags we had! Such fun. Day three we read, relaxed, and took a day hike to Impasse Falls--a toweringly gorgeous waterfall. We cooled off with a dip in the freezing lake by our amazing campsite (overlooked by a breathtaking glacier--beautiful!!) Day four we hiked back in eight hours. We took a dip in Russell Lake, where we enjoyed peanut butter and jelly and/or salami tortillas on the rocks. Excellent. What great fellowship throughout the trip! I'm so glad I did it, though I'm paying for my six days off by taking triple shifts these days... all worth it!
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Highlights of the week
First of all, to my Aunt Tricia and Uncle Doug: thank you for the AMAZING care package/"survival kit"! I've never received a package so grandiose as that! My friends have enjoyed sharing in the spoils of chocolate truffles. I can't wait for an opportunity to wear the "angel hair wig." The slippers have come in handy already, and I'm wearing my new Red Sox hat as I write this! You guys are such incredible gift-givers.
I received a letter from Aunt Kate the very day my package arrived (double-whammy! yes!) with the advice to visit Chico Hot Springs. Well, last night I finally made it to Chico! It was really cool, and pretty tourist-y :). It's looks like a big swimming pool but it's fed by a natural hot spring. Swimming in it was SO relaxing, hot, and needed after a long week of work!
After swimming, my friends and I went to Livingston for "Pirates of the Caribbean." We got there late so the girls at the ticket booth let us in free! Livingston people are pretty cool about that, apparently! It was an okay movie (not as good as the first one); it was just nice to go to a movie theater for the first time in a long time.
What else exciting happened this week? I've felt a bit overworked, honestly. Roosevelt has been bringing in people from Canyon to help us out since we're so understaffed. Here's the problem: we don't have enough people but we also don't have enough housing to bring in new staff. And people become so frustrated from being overworked that they leave early, which places even more of the work burden on those of us who are left here. It's a vicious cycle! The days off exploring are worth it all, though. As are the amazing, God-willing lifelong friendships I've made here.
Oh! As a result of some good advice from a friend, I'm learning to play the guitar here! It's fun! My friend Emily is teaching me what she knows... And by the time I get back I'll be ready to start my girl band. Anyone want to join? :)
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Sad Day
Yesterday was a somber one. My best friend here Joy said goodbye to me while I was working the breakfast shift. I started crying on the job. She was supposed to leave tomorrow--early enough to prepare for her move in to U Penn for dental school and to spend time with her new fiancee. She and Nathan were engaged the week before she came here. (Yeah, I'd be leaving early, too!) She decided to leave two days early - yesterday - because Nathan has been diagnosed with a serious heart condition. The night before last was spent in tears and prayers with Emily and Lindsay, the two ministering angels who have taken Joy and I in while their other roommate has been away. We've become like sisters here. I already miss Joy.
And what a stark contrast to that day she found out about Nathan. We had a shopping spree at Sierra Trading Post with Joy's parents and a Chinese girl named Melissa. I invested in a pair of hiking boots and Joy in a tent and some North Face jackets. That night we decided "investments" in camping gear don't matter. Winning arguments doesn't matter. People do.
And what a stark contrast to that day she found out about Nathan. We had a shopping spree at Sierra Trading Post with Joy's parents and a Chinese girl named Melissa. I invested in a pair of hiking boots and Joy in a tent and some North Face jackets. That night we decided "investments" in camping gear don't matter. Winning arguments doesn't matter. People do.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Engagement, tourists, and the fourth of July
Hey guess what! My sister Leah's engaged! Congratulations to Leah and Reagan. They got engaged downtown Greenville by the Reedy River in the place where they had their first kiss--aawww :). They've been dating since her sophomore year of high school and his senior year. Yay! The fourth of July is one of their special holidays... How romantic.
I've been entertained by American tourists here in Yellowstone. What an average American looks like, I don't know--I've seen people wearing t-shirts with a graphic of their state on them. Is that normal? Where does the average American shop for clothes? My sister Anna and I decided it was Wal-Mart and Old Navy. I think that's about right... But Old Navy, even though it's not super-nice, seems a lot cooler than the styles most people here wear. The average American is overweight and loud. I remember coming back from South Africa on the plane and it was so LOUD. Americans want things their way, and they want them now. We're a consumer culture and an instant-gratification society, which can make things hard on your server :).
July 4th was a beautiful day to go to the Livingston Rodeo! I went with a group: Justin and Adam (the security guards), Lisa, Celia, Janel and Cory. This 4th of July was Livingston's record-high in rodeo attendance--about 5,000 people were there. Our group got to the rodeo late and they were actually already sold out. But we waited by the gate long enough that the bouncer just let us all in for free! The fireworks after the rodeo were pretty nice. Watching fireworks is just always mesmirizing/hyptnotizing, like watching any kind of fire.
Us at the rodeo.
I've been entertained by American tourists here in Yellowstone. What an average American looks like, I don't know--I've seen people wearing t-shirts with a graphic of their state on them. Is that normal? Where does the average American shop for clothes? My sister Anna and I decided it was Wal-Mart and Old Navy. I think that's about right... But Old Navy, even though it's not super-nice, seems a lot cooler than the styles most people here wear. The average American is overweight and loud. I remember coming back from South Africa on the plane and it was so LOUD. Americans want things their way, and they want them now. We're a consumer culture and an instant-gratification society, which can make things hard on your server :).
July 4th was a beautiful day to go to the Livingston Rodeo! I went with a group: Justin and Adam (the security guards), Lisa, Celia, Janel and Cory. This 4th of July was Livingston's record-high in rodeo attendance--about 5,000 people were there. Our group got to the rodeo late and they were actually already sold out. But we waited by the gate long enough that the bouncer just let us all in for free! The fireworks after the rodeo were pretty nice. Watching fireworks is just always mesmirizing/hyptnotizing, like watching any kind of fire.
Us at the rodeo.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Grand Adventures
Ah! The internet again! I love it--and look forward to blogging, which indicates what a nerd I am (but nerds are good, I've always said) :). I should tell you about my grand adventures with my friend Andrew Lawton, who's staying in Idaho on his aunt and uncle's ranch, just two hours from Yellowstone. He came to visit for three days this week and we did all the tourist-y things around here, like seeing Old Faithful go off (once every ninety minutes or so), walking around the vibrant thermal pools near Old Faithful, and dipping our feet into Lake Yellowstone. Seeing the boiling mud was a dream come true! When I was younger I would look at picture books of Yellowstone and couldn't believe they existed, but they do! They're amazing, steamy, and smelly (sulpher--you know the smell). Honestly, it was kind of nice to be "just a tourist" instead of an employee for a short while. AND it was nice to eat real food at the lodges instead of the Employee Dining Room.
The real adventure began when Andrew and I decided to take a trip to the Tetons--they're about two hours away from here. The mountains are majestic and breath taking, and covered with snow. They're the largest mountains to emerge directly from flat land (they have no foothills). Well, we decided to go on a hike to "Swan Lake" in the northern part of the Tetons. The park ranger told us the trail was about a three-mile loop. We got to the lake, which was huge and covered in lily pads. It was beautiful, but so big we couldn't see the whole lake. We continued on our "loop" all the way to a dead end--the trail stopped at a river that looked like it used to have a bridge. We'd come so far that we didn't want to backtrack, so Andrew carried me on his back across the river (as high as my pant pockets), and lost one of his Chaco sandals while he was at it! The trail disappeared and we realized we were following animal trails into a field in the middle of nowhere. I knew the lake (another bigger lake) was in front of the mountains, so we decided to just go straight toward the mountains till we hit some trail. We had to jump another stream and right after that there was one more hurdle: a "peat bog stream" with water about an inch deep but mud who even knows how deep. We were literally in mud almost up to our waist. It was probably six feet wide, just wide enough that we couldn't jump it. I took off my shoes to cross it, then decided it was unfair for Andrew to be the only one walking barefoot, so I kept them off. We finally made it to Swan Lake and saw civilization--how relieving! This older couple saw us and jokingly told us we'd have stories to tell, and insisted on taking our picture. I think we could have been a statistic that day, but I'm very glad we survived SWAN LAKE!
Here's another adventure: five of my friends and I decided to drive two hours to "Fire Hole" (I think it's near Norris?) to swim in a river with thermal pool runoff. I expected it to be as warm as a hot tub. Well, after our long drive, we got there and saw that the stairs to get to the river were closed off with a sign saying there would be a $100 fine for people who swam in the river. Knowels decided to go down and just touch the water, which was about as cool as a swimming pool, but warmer than the river would be normally (about 40 F!). Knowels defied the law and went swimming alone in the river, and once he did it, three of us (Julie, Janel and I) decided to go, too. We couldn't drive all this way and NOT go in. And I think me having a video camera assisted in the decision to do it (oh! it came in last week! I'm a happy girl!). Yeah, that was probably the most defying, dare-devilish thing I've done here so far. It was fun :). Peer pressure, what can I say?
Serving is going great. I've met some really interesting people--I wish I had time to talk to them all! I had my first table walk out on me yesterday. The wait at the lodge is a LONG one, and it's usually not my fault, but servers are often the whipping boys for the restaurant. It was nice that the table next to that one noted how rude it was that the table walked out. I understand they wanted their food, and I understand that they couldn't wait any longer, but the manner in which they walked out was the rude part. Oh--it's often grandfathers with their grandkids who give you the hardest time! I don't know why that is!
Sad news: my parents found out that my Greyhound ticket is non-transferrable. Since it's in my name, I'm the only one who can use it. Sorry to those of you who wanted to use it :(. I should have found that out before I posted it on here! Like the wedding to Sweden, too--looks like plane tickets to Sweden are PRETTY pricey this time of year, so I'm still planning on being here till August 9.
Some seriously sad news: a lady here died two weeks ago. She had crossed the boundary and was taking a picture of her daughter and fell off a cliff. It was so sad. The whole park is grieving for her family. It makes me want to be very careful--I realize how dangerous this place is.
Thanks to all for your mail! I appreciate it more than you know (and yes, I do feel loved!).
The real adventure began when Andrew and I decided to take a trip to the Tetons--they're about two hours away from here. The mountains are majestic and breath taking, and covered with snow. They're the largest mountains to emerge directly from flat land (they have no foothills). Well, we decided to go on a hike to "Swan Lake" in the northern part of the Tetons. The park ranger told us the trail was about a three-mile loop. We got to the lake, which was huge and covered in lily pads. It was beautiful, but so big we couldn't see the whole lake. We continued on our "loop" all the way to a dead end--the trail stopped at a river that looked like it used to have a bridge. We'd come so far that we didn't want to backtrack, so Andrew carried me on his back across the river (as high as my pant pockets), and lost one of his Chaco sandals while he was at it! The trail disappeared and we realized we were following animal trails into a field in the middle of nowhere. I knew the lake (another bigger lake) was in front of the mountains, so we decided to just go straight toward the mountains till we hit some trail. We had to jump another stream and right after that there was one more hurdle: a "peat bog stream" with water about an inch deep but mud who even knows how deep. We were literally in mud almost up to our waist. It was probably six feet wide, just wide enough that we couldn't jump it. I took off my shoes to cross it, then decided it was unfair for Andrew to be the only one walking barefoot, so I kept them off. We finally made it to Swan Lake and saw civilization--how relieving! This older couple saw us and jokingly told us we'd have stories to tell, and insisted on taking our picture. I think we could have been a statistic that day, but I'm very glad we survived SWAN LAKE!
Here's another adventure: five of my friends and I decided to drive two hours to "Fire Hole" (I think it's near Norris?) to swim in a river with thermal pool runoff. I expected it to be as warm as a hot tub. Well, after our long drive, we got there and saw that the stairs to get to the river were closed off with a sign saying there would be a $100 fine for people who swam in the river. Knowels decided to go down and just touch the water, which was about as cool as a swimming pool, but warmer than the river would be normally (about 40 F!). Knowels defied the law and went swimming alone in the river, and once he did it, three of us (Julie, Janel and I) decided to go, too. We couldn't drive all this way and NOT go in. And I think me having a video camera assisted in the decision to do it (oh! it came in last week! I'm a happy girl!). Yeah, that was probably the most defying, dare-devilish thing I've done here so far. It was fun :). Peer pressure, what can I say?
Serving is going great. I've met some really interesting people--I wish I had time to talk to them all! I had my first table walk out on me yesterday. The wait at the lodge is a LONG one, and it's usually not my fault, but servers are often the whipping boys for the restaurant. It was nice that the table next to that one noted how rude it was that the table walked out. I understand they wanted their food, and I understand that they couldn't wait any longer, but the manner in which they walked out was the rude part. Oh--it's often grandfathers with their grandkids who give you the hardest time! I don't know why that is!
Sad news: my parents found out that my Greyhound ticket is non-transferrable. Since it's in my name, I'm the only one who can use it. Sorry to those of you who wanted to use it :(. I should have found that out before I posted it on here! Like the wedding to Sweden, too--looks like plane tickets to Sweden are PRETTY pricey this time of year, so I'm still planning on being here till August 9.
Some seriously sad news: a lady here died two weeks ago. She had crossed the boundary and was taking a picture of her daughter and fell off a cliff. It was so sad. The whole park is grieving for her family. It makes me want to be very careful--I realize how dangerous this place is.
Thanks to all for your mail! I appreciate it more than you know (and yes, I do feel loved!).
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Sweet action
I'm falling in love with Yellowstone! Last night I went camping with three other really cool, down-to-earth girls. We camped next to the Yellowstone River, which is beautiful but frighteningly powerful. We decided to set up camp at about 8:00 and then explore. As we were walking back to the tent, Becca said, "Hey guys, I think we should maybe just stay here [and not keep exploring in the other direction]... because there's a bear right there!" It was walking where we had just come from, about ten yards away from us! We started clapping and yelling to let him/her know we were there as we hurried into our tent. It was HUGE, but it slowly meandered away, fortunately! We only really saw the back of it, so it's hard to say whether it was a grizzly or just a black bear, but it had a honey-brown coat of fur. I've never seen one so light. It just might have been a grizzly! We ate all the snacks we brought with us then so our new friend wouldn't come back during the night to visit. I slept pretty peacefully, even though I was paranoid it'd come back.
Oh--good news! I start training for serving tomorrow, so I'll be out of the dish pit :). Actually, being a server is one of the best jobs you can get around here--though I'm sure it will add some stress to my life.
Joy and our friend Jesse and I went to me and Joy's first-ever rodeo Monday night! We took THE MOST BEAUTIFUL drive I've ever taken to Cody, WY--Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. It looked like we were in "The Lion King." We even saw the real-life replica of pride rock--seriously, it looked just like it ;). Oh, and we saw a RAINBOW on top of this plateau. It was gorgeous! Jesse grew up doing rodeo stuff, so he explained all the events of the rodeo to us. Jesse left Yellowstone yesterday and is now following his dreams and moving to Nashville to make it big in country music. He's from Washington--I didn't realize people other than in the South listened to country music, but all the cowboys here do! Jesse's definitely a "hard-core" cowboy.
I still haven't received any mail here and am very dissappointed! But it's not too late--I'll be here till at LEAST late July. I'm contemplating leaving early, honestly, and going to my friend's wedding in Sweden July 29! Hmmm... Anyway, send me mail! I will feel so loved! :)
Oh--good news! I start training for serving tomorrow, so I'll be out of the dish pit :). Actually, being a server is one of the best jobs you can get around here--though I'm sure it will add some stress to my life.
Joy and our friend Jesse and I went to me and Joy's first-ever rodeo Monday night! We took THE MOST BEAUTIFUL drive I've ever taken to Cody, WY--Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. It looked like we were in "The Lion King." We even saw the real-life replica of pride rock--seriously, it looked just like it ;). Oh, and we saw a RAINBOW on top of this plateau. It was gorgeous! Jesse grew up doing rodeo stuff, so he explained all the events of the rodeo to us. Jesse left Yellowstone yesterday and is now following his dreams and moving to Nashville to make it big in country music. He's from Washington--I didn't realize people other than in the South listened to country music, but all the cowboys here do! Jesse's definitely a "hard-core" cowboy.
I still haven't received any mail here and am very dissappointed! But it's not too late--I'll be here till at LEAST late July. I'm contemplating leaving early, honestly, and going to my friend's wedding in Sweden July 29! Hmmm... Anyway, send me mail! I will feel so loved! :)
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Free Greyhound Ticket
Wanna come visit me for free? You can stay here for $2 a night as my guest since I work with Xanterra! I have a free [Greyhound bus] ticket from Greenville to Bozeman (then you have to get a ride/shuttle to YNP?)--it can't be transferred to another city, unfortunately, and I have to use it within 120 days. So, in order to come, you have to answer the following questions:
What was the first-ever national park?
Which national park hosts 2/3 of the world's geysers?
Which national park is the size of Rhode Island and Delaware combined?
Where am I right now?
Seriously, guys, think about coming to visit me, espeically if you live in or near Greenville. I'd love company! And I have a free bus ticket than just can't go to waste! It's a 2-day, 9-hour bus ride, but whatever. :) Tell me if you want to come!
What was the first-ever national park?
Which national park hosts 2/3 of the world's geysers?
Which national park is the size of Rhode Island and Delaware combined?
Where am I right now?
Seriously, guys, think about coming to visit me, espeically if you live in or near Greenville. I'd love company! And I have a free bus ticket than just can't go to waste! It's a 2-day, 9-hour bus ride, but whatever. :) Tell me if you want to come!
Safe and Sound
I'm here in Yellowstone--I don't have much time to write, but I'm having a blast so far. I'm working in the DISH PIT in the kitchen, which can be depressing. I think all of us dish pit people had mental breakdowns at different times throughout the week. But I've heard rumors of my moving to another part of the kitchen soon. I'm at Roosevelt, which is the most primitive section of the park. There are four girls in my little wooden cabin. We make fires every night in a little stove and by the time we wake up (no later than 7:30 am) it's freezing cold! My roommate Joy and I sleep in our sleeping bags. Joy's awesome--we get along so well, think alike, and have great spiritual conversations together. I was so excited to see she'd brought books by C.S. Lewis and Carolyn Mahaney. We are hiking buddies :). The word of the week between us has been "hard-core." We've met so many "hard-core" hikers--we just pretend we're hard-core, but then we are comparing ourselves to these people who are so hard-core it's ridiculous.
Oh--the dish pit is awful, but on my hikes I'm reminded of why I'm here! It's gorgeous. The hiking is amazing. The people are so down-to-earth. It's been great. Mountains are so glorious! I'm amazed by the sites we've seen. The wildlife's awesome, too! I've seen four bears so far, lots of elk, deer, bison, and "whistle pigs" (ground squirrels). Bears scare me to death, by the way; but when you tell someone that, they tell you about all the other ways you can get killed at Yellowstone, which freaks me out even more! Like getting struck by lightning, falling into a hot spring, or being hit by a boulder in a mudslide. It's crazy.
I didn't know what to expect with the people who'd be working here, but a lot of them are kind of "punks" and partiers, surprisingly! I've even met people who don't like to hike! Where I am at Roosevelt there's a corral, so there are lots of cowboys and cowgirls around (the real deal!). But I'd say most of the people who work full-time here just love nature.
Oh, where I am at Roosevelt they just got the internet set up and it's dial-up! It was set up yesterday and get this: the building was struck by lightning in a hail storm yesterday afternoon! I didn't even get to use it there--I was so bummed. So right now I'm in Mammoth, which is more like a civilized city. They have Wi-Fi, which is such a blessing :)--haha. I'm such a spoiled American. Everything at Yellowstone seems to be about 10 years behind the times. Especially at Roosevelt! I feel so hard-core just living there.
Hey--write me! I looooove mail.
Cate Raff
#1 Roosevelt Lodge
YNP, WY 82190
Oh--the dish pit is awful, but on my hikes I'm reminded of why I'm here! It's gorgeous. The hiking is amazing. The people are so down-to-earth. It's been great. Mountains are so glorious! I'm amazed by the sites we've seen. The wildlife's awesome, too! I've seen four bears so far, lots of elk, deer, bison, and "whistle pigs" (ground squirrels). Bears scare me to death, by the way; but when you tell someone that, they tell you about all the other ways you can get killed at Yellowstone, which freaks me out even more! Like getting struck by lightning, falling into a hot spring, or being hit by a boulder in a mudslide. It's crazy.
I didn't know what to expect with the people who'd be working here, but a lot of them are kind of "punks" and partiers, surprisingly! I've even met people who don't like to hike! Where I am at Roosevelt there's a corral, so there are lots of cowboys and cowgirls around (the real deal!). But I'd say most of the people who work full-time here just love nature.
Oh, where I am at Roosevelt they just got the internet set up and it's dial-up! It was set up yesterday and get this: the building was struck by lightning in a hail storm yesterday afternoon! I didn't even get to use it there--I was so bummed. So right now I'm in Mammoth, which is more like a civilized city. They have Wi-Fi, which is such a blessing :)--haha. I'm such a spoiled American. Everything at Yellowstone seems to be about 10 years behind the times. Especially at Roosevelt! I feel so hard-core just living there.
Hey--write me! I looooove mail.
Cate Raff
#1 Roosevelt Lodge
YNP, WY 82190
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Bozeman, MT
Here I am in the lovely Bozeman, MT. I leave in an hour and fifteen minutes for Yellowstone on one of their Greyhound shuttles. It's about a three-hour drive. This is a beautiful country! Bozeman is surrounded by mountains--the ones far off are black and snow-capped, and the closer ones are green. It seems like the town is full of young people who ride bikes and are sweet and down-to-earth. Downtown Bozeman is safe, cute, and small, but it's got an artsy flair--lots of flyers for small bands playing at local joints.
The lady sitting by me on my plane from Salt Lake City (gorgeous) to Bozeman is probably in her late sixties and she is also working at Yellowstone :). She's a neat lady. Her husband passes away eleven years ago, so she's tried to stay active and involved since then, taking trips to Europe and now working at Yellowstone for seven weeks. She's from Georgia, so we had the South in common. We actually ended up staying in the same motel room last nigh--it was more of a suite--we had separate bedrooms.
More later. I can't believe I'm (almost) here!
The lady sitting by me on my plane from Salt Lake City (gorgeous) to Bozeman is probably in her late sixties and she is also working at Yellowstone :). She's a neat lady. Her husband passes away eleven years ago, so she's tried to stay active and involved since then, taking trips to Europe and now working at Yellowstone for seven weeks. She's from Georgia, so we had the South in common. We actually ended up staying in the same motel room last nigh--it was more of a suite--we had separate bedrooms.
More later. I can't believe I'm (almost) here!
Friday, June 02, 2006
Attractive Lifestyles
Forget "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous." I'm more interested in the lifestyles of the poor and unnoticed. These are keywords for some of the lifestyles that strike my fancy, or interest me long-term.
Simple--not necessarily poor, but not excessive. Maybe a lifestyle with no electricity? But what about laptops... I like my little Mac. Did you ever have Dr. Rhonda Galloway for an English class? I had her for American Lit. my freshman year at Bob Jones. She told me about her sister and brother-in-law who lived in a TENT in California for a year--with their family! Today they enjoy all the luxuries that come with modern civilization, like computers, but for a year they separated themselves from that. That's hot :). Ask her about it sometime.
Natural--Have you ever been to Whole Foods? The people gracing that store are so natural--they eat only organic foods. But they're pretty much all wealthy. The hippies at LEAF--so natural and beautiful. The girls don't shave, but you get used to it. It looks fine. My friend Hannah--whom I've talked about before--is working on an organic farm in Virginia this summer. She's such a natural girl. She doesn't wear makeup. She bakes her foods completely from scratch. Anyway, Hannah's my hero, along with her roommate Biz :).
Generous--My parents' pastor and his wife at their church in Norfolk would eat macaroni and cheese for dinner and give their savings to missionaries. Doesn't that almost make you want to cry? Wow--that's so giving and sacrificial. There's something good about that--why? I think it has to do with God's nature and example through Christ. Foot-washing, literally sacrificial, gracious. Feeding the hungry. People who tip well understand the importance of generosity.
Purposeful--missionaries fascinate me. They live for a cause greater than themselves. They understand the brevity of life--that "only what's done for Christ will last."
Thoughtful--I mean "thoughtful" both as in perceptive of others and reasoning and analyzing--I think of Francis and Edith Schaeffer as a thoughtful couple--in both senses. My mom is also one of the most thoughtful people in the world. She goes to the post office probably three times a week to send off little care packages, etc. I love good, thoughtful conversations.
Active--The opposite of sedentary. All people from Colorado. Have you ever seen an overweight Coloradoan? People who would rather rock climb than read the latest "People" magazine are active. My aunt Kate is so active. She's fifty-five and was known to go camping in NM with her golden retriever Okie-dokie, before Okie-dokie died. She's a hiker and a salsa dancer--always on the move. My sister Jessica and her husband Joel have saved up their money, quit their jobs, and are going to hike the Appalachian Trail for the next six months! That's pretty active and adventurous, don't you think?
Happy--My Aunt Tricia and Uncle Doug just laugh all the time, and make everyone around them happy. They enjoy life and each other. They're warm people--non-pretentious, transparent. Even through hard times, they seem to have joyful hearts.
Simple--not necessarily poor, but not excessive. Maybe a lifestyle with no electricity? But what about laptops... I like my little Mac. Did you ever have Dr. Rhonda Galloway for an English class? I had her for American Lit. my freshman year at Bob Jones. She told me about her sister and brother-in-law who lived in a TENT in California for a year--with their family! Today they enjoy all the luxuries that come with modern civilization, like computers, but for a year they separated themselves from that. That's hot :). Ask her about it sometime.
Natural--Have you ever been to Whole Foods? The people gracing that store are so natural--they eat only organic foods. But they're pretty much all wealthy. The hippies at LEAF--so natural and beautiful. The girls don't shave, but you get used to it. It looks fine. My friend Hannah--whom I've talked about before--is working on an organic farm in Virginia this summer. She's such a natural girl. She doesn't wear makeup. She bakes her foods completely from scratch. Anyway, Hannah's my hero, along with her roommate Biz :).
Generous--My parents' pastor and his wife at their church in Norfolk would eat macaroni and cheese for dinner and give their savings to missionaries. Doesn't that almost make you want to cry? Wow--that's so giving and sacrificial. There's something good about that--why? I think it has to do with God's nature and example through Christ. Foot-washing, literally sacrificial, gracious. Feeding the hungry. People who tip well understand the importance of generosity.
Purposeful--missionaries fascinate me. They live for a cause greater than themselves. They understand the brevity of life--that "only what's done for Christ will last."
Thoughtful--I mean "thoughtful" both as in perceptive of others and reasoning and analyzing--I think of Francis and Edith Schaeffer as a thoughtful couple--in both senses. My mom is also one of the most thoughtful people in the world. She goes to the post office probably three times a week to send off little care packages, etc. I love good, thoughtful conversations.
Active--The opposite of sedentary. All people from Colorado. Have you ever seen an overweight Coloradoan? People who would rather rock climb than read the latest "People" magazine are active. My aunt Kate is so active. She's fifty-five and was known to go camping in NM with her golden retriever Okie-dokie, before Okie-dokie died. She's a hiker and a salsa dancer--always on the move. My sister Jessica and her husband Joel have saved up their money, quit their jobs, and are going to hike the Appalachian Trail for the next six months! That's pretty active and adventurous, don't you think?
Happy--My Aunt Tricia and Uncle Doug just laugh all the time, and make everyone around them happy. They enjoy life and each other. They're warm people--non-pretentious, transparent. Even through hard times, they seem to have joyful hearts.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
brat
Sorry, that last post was really bratty of me. I'm complaining because my dad cares a LOT for me? I'm such an ungrateful kid.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
The best-laid plans
Tomorrow I was supposed to take a Greyhound bus to Bozeman, Montana. It would have been a 2-day, 9-hour journey. I would have stopped in Atlanta, Chicago, Milwaukee, Fargo and about 11 other major cities on the way. I would read some great books on the road. I was excited to spend the money I saved by not flying on a video camera and documenting my trip across America and my summer in Yellowstone. I wanted to meet interesting people on the Greyhound--people I wouldn't ordinarily come in contact with. I heard a "This American Life" broadcast a long time ago about a guy who Greyhounded across America and tape-recorded conversations with interesting (and surely some creepy) people. I was inspired.
However, as of yesterday, I am no longer taking a Greyhound bus to Yellowstone. I had checked with my mom on the Greyhound idea and she "ok"ed it. But my dad wouldn't be able to forgive himself if anything happened to me--which is VERY caring of him. I'm thankful for his care for me. So he bought me a plane ticket to Bozeman. I'm leaving Saturday morning at 6:30. With the money he's spending plus the money I've already spent on the Greyhound ticket, I'll hardly be making anything in Yellowstone, which was one of the main reasons I chose to go to Yellowstone as opposed to, say, visiting my friends in Europe this summer. Some dear friends I met in South Africa are gettin married in Sweden July 29th. I feel very juvenile--both for my dad's protection and for my attitude towards not getting my way. I guess that can be way # 101 that I'm selfish.
I don't know if Robert Burns' poem applies more to people like me--people who don't plan very well (ie: check with their dads before purchasing a Greyhound ticket)--or if it applies to everyone equally. Probably MORE to people like me, but it does say the "best-laid" plans go oft awry. I've found this to be true so often in my case. "Is God usually sovereign or always sovereign?" I have to ask myself.
However, as of yesterday, I am no longer taking a Greyhound bus to Yellowstone. I had checked with my mom on the Greyhound idea and she "ok"ed it. But my dad wouldn't be able to forgive himself if anything happened to me--which is VERY caring of him. I'm thankful for his care for me. So he bought me a plane ticket to Bozeman. I'm leaving Saturday morning at 6:30. With the money he's spending plus the money I've already spent on the Greyhound ticket, I'll hardly be making anything in Yellowstone, which was one of the main reasons I chose to go to Yellowstone as opposed to, say, visiting my friends in Europe this summer. Some dear friends I met in South Africa are gettin married in Sweden July 29th. I feel very juvenile--both for my dad's protection and for my attitude towards not getting my way. I guess that can be way # 101 that I'm selfish.
I don't know if Robert Burns' poem applies more to people like me--people who don't plan very well (ie: check with their dads before purchasing a Greyhound ticket)--or if it applies to everyone equally. Probably MORE to people like me, but it does say the "best-laid" plans go oft awry. I've found this to be true so often in my case. "Is God usually sovereign or always sovereign?" I have to ask myself.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
90 days
The other day I ran across my old CIT notebook from exactly four years ago. I remember being assigned to write down 100 ways in which I was selfish. I was amazed reading over the list at how little I've changed in four years! I'm still impatient with my mom. I still don't fill the gas when I'm done using the car. Some "selfish habits" have become obsolete: Alice and I have no reason to fight over who gets to talk on the phone at night; we have cell phones now. The foundational habit I hadn't formed then was consistency in reading the Bible--and I still haven't formed it. So, they say it takes 90 days to make or break a habit. (I wonder if that's scientific or if it's just a mind-over-matter thing.) So, I'm starting to read the Bible every day, even for just five minutes, and am planning on keeping it up for ninety days. I don't want to look back in four years and still be where I am now. Sometimes I'd rather read Francis Schaeffer or C.S. Lewis than the Bible, honestly. But "apologetical books" like Hebrews are exciting--Hebrews is where I'm starting my journey into consistency (consistency as opposed to spontaneity?). I want my love for the Word to develop--and with it my love for Truth.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
LEAF
Oh the joys of discovering new music! This weekend I did just that (and so much more) at Lake Eden Arts Festival, a semiannual "hippie fest" in the hills of North Carolina. The first time I experienced LEAF was about four years ago with the family I baby-sit. Sid, the kids' dad, is a lawyer; at the time Alison didn't let her daughter wear jeans outside the house in the summer--only matching patterned shorts from some yuppie boutique like Moppet's would do. Miles wore those little one-piece outfits with a train on the front pocket and matching socks. I didn't know back then, but you're not supposed to wear preppy pastel purple collared shirts with khaki shorts at a music festival, even if the shorts are cutoffs.
My family is known to have slight hippie tendencies, but we're nothing compared to LEAFers. Everyone at LEAF is a pretty hard-core hippie, with dreads and amazing broomstick skirts (even on the guys) to prove it. OK, not all the guys wear skirts, but you're bound to sight two or three. I saw more Chacos than I've ever seen in my life. Showers are communal. Love is free. Camping is a must!
Biz and I met Hannah at LEAF Friday night. We set up camp then headed to hear one of the bands at Eden Hall. Hannah told me the second band grace our presence would be great--the lead singer sounded like Alison Krauss. Biz and I planned on meeting up with Hannah for contra dancing after a few songs but we couldn't escape from the magical music of Crooked Still! The group is from Boston and plays the smoothest newgrass I've heard. Vocals: smooth, clear, and soft, no nagging. Aoife (Ee-fah) is accompanied by a cello, a banjo, and a string bass. The cello--wow. Aoife's boyfriend Rushad plays it, and he's awesome. How does he move his fingers so fast? He's this half Indian guy who dons elf shoes and a silk hat as he plays. He puckers his lips when he gets to the intense parts of his solos. He's entertaining to watch. The banjo's pretty sweet, too. The bass' carries the ocean of sound along. If you like bluegrass at all, check these guys out!
Hannah, Biz, and I decided it would be an all-girls weekend. I'm glad it was, even though we talked about our guy woes the whole time--guys and food. We ate a ton of healthful delicacies like vegetables dipped in ginger dressing, apple muffins, and sweet potato fries, stuff you'd buy at Whole Foods. No Happy Cow, though. We ate some pretty unhealthful stuff, too. S'mores--cold. Mmmmm... We danced the night away on the contra stage. After listening to some cool girl CD on the way up, Biz and I decided to start a girl band at Clemson. That's just what Clemson needs, in my mind. Not like the Spice Girls--more like the Indigo Girls. Too bad none of us plays guitar, or sings, really.
My family is known to have slight hippie tendencies, but we're nothing compared to LEAFers. Everyone at LEAF is a pretty hard-core hippie, with dreads and amazing broomstick skirts (even on the guys) to prove it. OK, not all the guys wear skirts, but you're bound to sight two or three. I saw more Chacos than I've ever seen in my life. Showers are communal. Love is free. Camping is a must!
Biz and I met Hannah at LEAF Friday night. We set up camp then headed to hear one of the bands at Eden Hall. Hannah told me the second band grace our presence would be great--the lead singer sounded like Alison Krauss. Biz and I planned on meeting up with Hannah for contra dancing after a few songs but we couldn't escape from the magical music of Crooked Still! The group is from Boston and plays the smoothest newgrass I've heard. Vocals: smooth, clear, and soft, no nagging. Aoife (Ee-fah) is accompanied by a cello, a banjo, and a string bass. The cello--wow. Aoife's boyfriend Rushad plays it, and he's awesome. How does he move his fingers so fast? He's this half Indian guy who dons elf shoes and a silk hat as he plays. He puckers his lips when he gets to the intense parts of his solos. He's entertaining to watch. The banjo's pretty sweet, too. The bass' carries the ocean of sound along. If you like bluegrass at all, check these guys out!
Hannah, Biz, and I decided it would be an all-girls weekend. I'm glad it was, even though we talked about our guy woes the whole time--guys and food. We ate a ton of healthful delicacies like vegetables dipped in ginger dressing, apple muffins, and sweet potato fries, stuff you'd buy at Whole Foods. No Happy Cow, though. We ate some pretty unhealthful stuff, too. S'mores--cold. Mmmmm... We danced the night away on the contra stage. After listening to some cool girl CD on the way up, Biz and I decided to start a girl band at Clemson. That's just what Clemson needs, in my mind. Not like the Spice Girls--more like the Indigo Girls. Too bad none of us plays guitar, or sings, really.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Happy Cow chocolate milk
I bought it today at the new Whole Foods store down the street. It's the best chocolate milk I've ever tasted, besides the old Bob Jones chocolate milk before they sold the farm. It's a close contest, anyway. Alice says I'm her favorite sister now... YES.
spontaneity
A respected teacher once said, "Spontaneity is what my grandson does in his pants." Although I see where he's coming from, I think spontaneity is a lot more than that. Spontaneity is the spice of life--it's what makes fun people fun, colorful personalities colorful! Without spontaneity this world would be pretty boring.
Spontaneous moments in my last few weeks: I was bike riding on the Issaquena Trail the Sunday before I had a big paper due for a class (2 weeks ago?). I should have been writing--I know. But I'd already committed to biking, so I couldn't back out of it. I also had an RA banquet that night, so I had to get back in time to shower and get ready. We rode along Lake Hartwell and basked in the glorious view of the shimmering water. About three-fourths of the way through the ride, my friend discovered a rope swing. I had 20 minutes to be back in order to get my shower, and that would have been pushing it, but we decided to do the rope swing instead--in our biking clothes. Oh, it was so fun. I went to the RA banquet with hair still wet from the lake, but it was worth it. And the paper--it's over. What will I remember 10 years from now: spending my Sunday afternoon writing an essay, or swinging on a rope swing? Easy answer ;).
Another spontaneous moment: A friend and I went running at 9:00 one night--a little late to start running, honestly. We ran to the Botanical Gardens, hung out in the 80-ton bird's nest sculpture (It really looks like a bird's nest, but it's made of tree trunks! Amazing.), kept running around the gardens, talked about honeysuckles and philosophy, got back to Stadium Suites and dived (I mean dived) onto the grass, fresh and warm, waiting for us to gaze at the heavens with it.
Moment number three: Late night grits at Waffle House then driving around town—of course I want to keep driving.
Spontaneity makes for some unforgettable moments.
What is it in us that loves surprises and spontaneity? I think God likes to surprise us and glory in His own creativity. Look at His good creation--from the micros to the cosmos, beauty and creativity can be found in everything. We're His image-bearers and we draw pleasure from surprising each other, as well. What do you think?
Spontaneous moments in my last few weeks: I was bike riding on the Issaquena Trail the Sunday before I had a big paper due for a class (2 weeks ago?). I should have been writing--I know. But I'd already committed to biking, so I couldn't back out of it. I also had an RA banquet that night, so I had to get back in time to shower and get ready. We rode along Lake Hartwell and basked in the glorious view of the shimmering water. About three-fourths of the way through the ride, my friend discovered a rope swing. I had 20 minutes to be back in order to get my shower, and that would have been pushing it, but we decided to do the rope swing instead--in our biking clothes. Oh, it was so fun. I went to the RA banquet with hair still wet from the lake, but it was worth it. And the paper--it's over. What will I remember 10 years from now: spending my Sunday afternoon writing an essay, or swinging on a rope swing? Easy answer ;).
Another spontaneous moment: A friend and I went running at 9:00 one night--a little late to start running, honestly. We ran to the Botanical Gardens, hung out in the 80-ton bird's nest sculpture (It really looks like a bird's nest, but it's made of tree trunks! Amazing.), kept running around the gardens, talked about honeysuckles and philosophy, got back to Stadium Suites and dived (I mean dived) onto the grass, fresh and warm, waiting for us to gaze at the heavens with it.
Moment number three: Late night grits at Waffle House then driving around town—of course I want to keep driving.
Spontaneity makes for some unforgettable moments.
What is it in us that loves surprises and spontaneity? I think God likes to surprise us and glory in His own creativity. Look at His good creation--from the micros to the cosmos, beauty and creativity can be found in everything. We're His image-bearers and we draw pleasure from surprising each other, as well. What do you think?
Thursday, May 04, 2006
deliberating
The sun is rising and I'm setting. This has happend about 80% of my nights in the last three weeks. All-nighters, but tonight was a good one, no term papers or anything. Just talking to some crazy new friends I've met just this semester. I'm imagining where I'd be if I hadn't been placed as an RA here at Stadium Suites. I've met some of the coolest "kids" ever. Oh, I have an exam tomorrow, but it's at night. I've got time to study, hopefully.
I think I'll go watch the sunrise.
I think I'll go watch the sunrise.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Sleeping in the library
I don't remember the name of the book I read in third grade, but the main character in the story escaped her awful family life by living in a museum. She stood on top of toilets in restroom stalls so when security checked under the doors they wouldn't see someone was still hiding in the museum. She hid out there for several weeks. I don't remember where she slept, but I always thought it'd be exciting to evade the eyes of security and camp out in a museum.
A library was the next best thing. Last week, I guess it would have been early Wednesday morning, I finally fulfilled my dream and slept in the library. I hit the books around 2:00 am and studied with Will and Lena till around 4. I finally had to crash. So I put two cushy chairs together (they're more of a couch/chair combo) and slept in the library. It was fun! My backpack and purse were my pillow. It was one of the best sleeps I've ever experienced. It kind of stinks, but security doesn't care if people sleep in the library. I see people doing it all the time. I still felt audacious, adventurous and cool.
A library was the next best thing. Last week, I guess it would have been early Wednesday morning, I finally fulfilled my dream and slept in the library. I hit the books around 2:00 am and studied with Will and Lena till around 4. I finally had to crash. So I put two cushy chairs together (they're more of a couch/chair combo) and slept in the library. It was fun! My backpack and purse were my pillow. It was one of the best sleeps I've ever experienced. It kind of stinks, but security doesn't care if people sleep in the library. I see people doing it all the time. I still felt audacious, adventurous and cool.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Engagement
Rebekah and John are to be wed October 14 of this year! She took cuts from classes today and they rose before dawn to journey to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here's Rebekah's story: "I was a little suspicious that he might be proposing, but didn't want to be disappointed if he didn't. When he started taking pictures of the sunrise ("before pictures," in his mind), I doubted this would be the day he'd ask me. John's been re-reading John Piper's "Desiring God" and was reading me some quotes from it. He told me there was a section on marriage he wanted me to read and gave me the book. I flipped over to the page where the paragraph was and he had cut out a section of the book to fit the ring into!" She said yes this Good Friday the fourteenth of April in the Year of Our Lord Two-thousand and Six.
A note: Rebekah and I have been kindred spirits for about the past three years. When I think of a "faithful" friend, I think of her. She and John fit each other in their desire for truth, their analytical minds, and their love for people. Rebekah never ceases to sharpen me in our conversations. By that, I mean she happens to bring up the topic I've JUST been thinking about and she'll push me to developing it lightyears further than I could on my own. This has happend I don't even know how many times! I appreciate that. People meet John and are swept away by his humility, thoughtfulness, and sharp mind. We joke around that he must be perfect, but I'm sure he's not, somehow. It just seems like he is. When I think of the two of them together, my heart rejoices! How exciting to see how God will use them together to glorify Himself!
A note: Rebekah and I have been kindred spirits for about the past three years. When I think of a "faithful" friend, I think of her. She and John fit each other in their desire for truth, their analytical minds, and their love for people. Rebekah never ceases to sharpen me in our conversations. By that, I mean she happens to bring up the topic I've JUST been thinking about and she'll push me to developing it lightyears further than I could on my own. This has happend I don't even know how many times! I appreciate that. People meet John and are swept away by his humility, thoughtfulness, and sharp mind. We joke around that he must be perfect, but I'm sure he's not, somehow. It just seems like he is. When I think of the two of them together, my heart rejoices! How exciting to see how God will use them together to glorify Himself!
Das Haus der Waffeln
Otherwise known as Waffle House. I hadn't been to the one in Clemson till this week when I went twice, both times with "cool DCF people." Maybe it's something about the smoky, flourescently-lit atmosphere, or the stale coffe that, when mixed with sugar and cream, "tastes like candy," but the place breeds good discussions and laughter. Maybe it's just the feeling of being a college student with the world as your oyster that breeds those discussions, and Waffle House breeds that feeling. Ok, so maybe it's just the people you're with. But I'm very much a college student when I'm there. Yeah, I live on a cheap budget, and so do all my friends. Sure, I like eating breakfast any time of day, especially after 12. I have homework due tomorrow, but that can wait. There are more important things to concern myself with, like the present.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Maria
She went to my church in South Africa. We shared family stories and deep theological thoughts over Rooibos tea and cheesecake, her favorite. In Hermanus we'd run on the beach, she, barefoot, and look for whales together. We never saw any. Her easy laugh and wild curls were natural complements of her carefree personality. We called each other "kindred spirits"--we were. She was one of the few I'd always stay in touch with. The last e-mails we wrote each other were in mid-January, she wrote me last. Having one of my "Maria moments," which I often do, that longing to talk to her, her to listen in that non-judgemental, wise, kind but strong way, I e-mailed her at the beginning of March.
Yesterday, March 29, her sister wrote me back. She was sorry to tell me, especially over e-mail, but Maria had passed away January 25. She attached photos of her--this beautiful, colorful, bright-eyed woman--who had been alive in my mind since I last saw her. She died in a car accident.
Two months have passed, but my mourning process has only just begun. I'm far away from our mutual friends, many of whom have already reached closure. She's the first friend I've lost--a very good friend. I feel like my world's about to change.
Brannon said something once: "The older you get, the more extreme happiness and sadness become." When you're little, the best thing that happens to you is the ice cream truck coming, and the worst, scraping your knee. As you get older, the best is marriage, children, grandchildren. The most tragic is death.
Yesterday, March 29, her sister wrote me back. She was sorry to tell me, especially over e-mail, but Maria had passed away January 25. She attached photos of her--this beautiful, colorful, bright-eyed woman--who had been alive in my mind since I last saw her. She died in a car accident.
Two months have passed, but my mourning process has only just begun. I'm far away from our mutual friends, many of whom have already reached closure. She's the first friend I've lost--a very good friend. I feel like my world's about to change.
Brannon said something once: "The older you get, the more extreme happiness and sadness become." When you're little, the best thing that happens to you is the ice cream truck coming, and the worst, scraping your knee. As you get older, the best is marriage, children, grandchildren. The most tragic is death.
Monday, March 13, 2006
L'Abri
My friend Hannah is going to L'Abri in Switzerland next semester. The French word "L'Abri" means "shelter" and it's basically a self-study school anyone, from any background, can go to to ask questions and get honest answers about life and its meaning. As I understand it, the school is set up communally--students garden, cook, and clean for themselves and each other. Students discuss questions over the dinner table every day. About a third of the time is spent studying, another thrid working, and another third doing other things (traveling?). When you arrive at L'Abri, you receive a personal tutor who directs you in the subject you want to pursue. Weekly lectures are also given, I believe.
L'Abri was started by Francis and Edith Schaeffer, one of the most godly, like-minded, and intelligent couples to walk the planet. I'm reading Edith Schaeffer's book "L'Abri" and have been blessed by her faith, critical mind, and fidelity to Scriputre. I'm writing down quotes I think are exciting. Here's one you might like:
"The thing about real life is that important events don't announce themselves. Trumpets don't blow, drums don't beat to let you know you are going to meet the most important person you've ever met, or read the most important thing you are ever going to read, or have the most important conversation you are ever going to have, or spend the most important week you are ever going to spend. Usually something that is going to change your life is a memory before you can stop and be impressed about it. You don't usually have a chance to get excited about that sort of thing . . . ahead of time!" (ch. 5)
If that's not exciting - the future, mystery, God's goodness, which rests in His wisdom - I don't know what is.
L'Abri was started by Francis and Edith Schaeffer, one of the most godly, like-minded, and intelligent couples to walk the planet. I'm reading Edith Schaeffer's book "L'Abri" and have been blessed by her faith, critical mind, and fidelity to Scriputre. I'm writing down quotes I think are exciting. Here's one you might like:
"The thing about real life is that important events don't announce themselves. Trumpets don't blow, drums don't beat to let you know you are going to meet the most important person you've ever met, or read the most important thing you are ever going to read, or have the most important conversation you are ever going to have, or spend the most important week you are ever going to spend. Usually something that is going to change your life is a memory before you can stop and be impressed about it. You don't usually have a chance to get excited about that sort of thing . . . ahead of time!" (ch. 5)
If that's not exciting - the future, mystery, God's goodness, which rests in His wisdom - I don't know what is.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Great minds
"Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people." Eleanor Roosevelt said that. I'm still guilty of finding pleasure in shallow conversation, but that quote has prompted me to steer away from dulling, thoughtless topics and gravitate toward great ones. Shallow conversation isn't always bad. "What did you do today?" and "Who won the game?" aren't awful questions. Their answers are simple and can be satisfying. Maybe it's more the disposition of being easily satisfied that Eleanor detests. Small stomachs that hunger for no more than succinct answers. Sometimes that's me, but I don't want it to be.
I have some friends who I can always count on to sharpen me. I did lunch with one of them the other week and came to a new appreciation of her. I've thought about the things we talked about, but only to a certain point. When we converse, her ideas actually infuse into my mind. Think about that--someone else's ideas being transplanted into your mind, things that weren't there before are now alive and kicking in your thoughts! Then my thoughts grow and ricochet back to her mind. The idea starts out as a tennis ball, but by the end of the match it's a hundred of them, some larger than others.
I like when those tennis balls start to grow.
I have some friends who I can always count on to sharpen me. I did lunch with one of them the other week and came to a new appreciation of her. I've thought about the things we talked about, but only to a certain point. When we converse, her ideas actually infuse into my mind. Think about that--someone else's ideas being transplanted into your mind, things that weren't there before are now alive and kicking in your thoughts! Then my thoughts grow and ricochet back to her mind. The idea starts out as a tennis ball, but by the end of the match it's a hundred of them, some larger than others.
I like when those tennis balls start to grow.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)