State of Fear

Late last night towards the end of my shift I was in a hurry. You see, I had only 40 pages to go in State of Fear by Michael Crichton. With 50 minutes left in my shift and a heart rate of 106(just guessing), due to a time crunch and intense book, I had a suitable task ahead. Well, to no surprise I was able to finish due to my college level reading skills and many professors who required 1000's of pages of reading per test. Phew! It was close.

On a more serious note, I really enjoyed this book. It did take about 100 or so pages to really get into it, but most good books are that way due to the need for character and content building. The remaining 523 pages were excellent. The thing that I loved about the book was that it introduced actual global issues with referenced facts, but in the form of a fiction book. I feel like I was educated and my views of global issues were broadened.

One disclaimer. If you find vulgar language very offensive, then you might want to steer clear of this book. For those of us who grew up in the streets of South Salt Lake (not as intimidating sounding as the Bronx or Compton) it is very mild. Other than that, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good read.

Sugar Abstinence

Jessica and I have decided that we eat way too many sweets. Thus, we have decided to go on a sugar fast. Now I know that sugars are carbohydrates and it would be impossible to void our diet of all carbohydrates (that is unless you are on the Atkin's Diet, which we all know is not very healthy, but that is another argument for another day). However, we have decided to exercise a 7-day lent, if you will, to avoid sugars in the form of candies, desserts and sugary beverages. We are on day 4 and it has been quite the challenge. Jess is such a wonderful cook and makes great desserts, so these past few days it's been hard not to whip up some form of indulgence to eat.

Valentine's Surprise

My wonderful husband surprised my with 2 dozen beautiful roses for Valentine's Day! He is truly the sweetest man in the world. I love him to death!
Since Spence had class til 7 last night, we did a low key Valentine's celebration and it was perfect. I got take out from Dragon Diner (one of Spencer's faves) and we watched Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was fun just to hang out at home and be with each other. This was our 3rd Valentine's Day as a couple, but our first one that we actually spent together. Between work and school, we've never been able to spend any time together on February 14th's of the past, so this year was our first Valentine's Day together-together...and it was fantastic!

One Day

I really want this recliner. If only we had a bigger living room...and a bunch of money. A girl can dream, right?

86 Days

As I sit here studying for my first exam in Form, Function, and Adaptation of Plants, I realize how anxious I am to be done with studying, testing, homeworking, and all things that are school. As I am in the midst of my 17th and final year of school, I reflect back on all of the important lessons I have learned. Then I remember that, with the exception of what I am currently studying, I only remember about 10% of what I have learned in 17 years of school.
I watch the show "Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader?" and I can honestly say that by their standards, no I am not smarter than a fifth grader. I know the basics of human anatomy and physiology, the many reactions and syntheses of organic and biochemistry, the nuances of genetics and cell biology, the theories and ideas surrounding evolution, and many specifics of ecology (thanks to the last two semesters of ecological-intensive courses), yet I am not smarter than a fifth grader because I can't remember who Calvin Coolidge's vice president was.
My point, friends, is that even though I have dedicated the majority of my 22 year long life to learning, I will graduate in 86 days no smarter than a 10 year-old child.