God has really proven Himself faithful on my behalf in the last week or so. I am just amazed at how He was continued to bless me.
First of all, finances have gotten really tough again. I haven't been able to work for about a week and a half because they haven't needed me...Paul Davis (PDR) is still waiting on the subcontractors to finish their jobs before PDR can do the finishing work. Because of that, I haven't been able to work (or produce income) for a while. Well, that's a problem. Even when I'm working as many hours as I can, it's not like I have extra money lying around. When I don't work at all...things get ugly.
Well, all that changed last week. I logged onto my Embry-Riddle e-mail account to see a message from ERAU Financial Aid. They informed me that my financial aid award had been adjusted. I looked to see exactly how, and was shocked. The University has awarded me two additional scholarships for the 2007-2008 academic year, totaling an extra $5,050 for the year!
That's not the half of it.
The scholarships are retroactive, meaning they were meant to apply to this semester too. Since I've already paid for this semester, I actually had a credit in my account of roughly $2,500! A refund check is on the way. I actually went to the cashier today and pulled out $150 for upcoming bills, and it's in my pocket right now. The other $2,350 or so will arrive via check in my mailbox very shortly. I plan to pay urgent bills with it, live off my PDR income, and stick the rest in a savings account to gather interest over the next two months.
Here's the cool thing. My federal student aid this year is a lot more than it was last year. Add to this the fact that my university expenses are reduced (living off-campus), and after some calculations, I find that my expenses due to the university are around $3,100 for next semester. Well, let's not forget the credit in my account....! As long as I don't spend too much of that credit on bills, I am looking at having to come up with less than $1,000 for next semester! This at a university whose estimated costs for this school year approach $40K! Is God amazing, or what??!
Wait, there's more.
Last Wednesday and Thursday was the career fair. I almost didn't go, but decided to do so at the last minute. Last year, the fair was quite disappointing. Most exhibitors said (in essence), "Thank you for your interest...come back next year." This year was much more exciting. Nearly everyone I talked to showed some interest in me as an intern for this summer. USA (United Space Alliance), FAA, and Lockheed Martin were all quite positive. Boeing was the most encouraging. I talked to a recruiter and he grilled me on the spot. He saw the good GPA and degree program and asked me some interview questions right then and there. Then he gave me a time and place the next day for a "mock interview."
Friday was the mock interview and it went quite well. He described it basically as a mentoring session. We went through the process of a full-blown interview, after which he critiqued me and then took a hard look at my resumé. He said I did a good job in the interview and he liked how I answered his questions. He did say my resumé needed a little help, so he showed me how to tailor it to Boeing's career requisitions. Then he gave me some homework and told me to apply for some internships (and to let him know which ones I apply for).
That experience was very encouraging. It was good to know that my interview skills are up-to-par, and also to see that I am becoming more desirable. I have yet to see what will come of the Boeing experience, but I am hopeful that between Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and everyone else in the industry I will be able to land an internship this summer.
Yes, I can say with authority...God has richly blessed me. I had a rather nasty head cold this weekend, but even in the midst of the worst headache of my life, I was able to say confidently that I am blessed beyond what I deserve.
"The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord!"
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Insanity
It's obviously been a few days since my last post. I think this is because the word "busy" no longer accurately describes my life..."insane" is probably more like it. I recently sat down with a friend and found that after all my scheduled activities, I have roughly 4 hours of free time per week. So I have started keeping track of my time and how I spend it. I have been amazed to see just how much time I'm really spending on school...and also how much time I waste. I am definitely a work in progress when it comes to time management.
I got kinda scared yesterday. For really the first time this semester, I took a quantitative look at my grades, and wasn't pleased with what I discovered. I found that I have one A, three B's, and one C. NASTY! Those aren't horrible grades, but considering I have a 4.0 GPA up until this semester, those grades are far below my normal performance. While the discovery was rather unpleasant, I think it was exactly what was needed to remotivate me. It is still possible to pull out an A in every class, although it would take a miracle to do so in Dynamics (the class I have a C in right now). Good thing God's in the business of doing miracles! I also heard that the teacher may actually curve a little bit at the end of the year....if he does, that may just be my saving grace. But ultimately, all I can do is my best, and just let God handle the results.
Another thing adding to my busy schedule is a Bible study that I am starting up with Michael. He's a Resident Advisor on-campus, and has several kids in his hall that are interested in the study. He didn't want to run it completely himself (the University is pretty touchy about stuff like that), so he asked me to lead it. I am the primary facilitator, but he is of course there for backup, to stimulate discussion, etc. It's mostly evangelistic in nature, but there are one or two believers that will be coming as well. It makes me a bit nervous, because I've never led a Bible study before, but I think it will be a good experience. I just hope God uses us in the lives of these kids.
Beyond that, life goes on. The fleas still aren't completely gone, but they are fading slowly. The cat still hasn't returned. Work is going well, but I'm not getting the hours I need right now. Finances as a whole are still pretty tight, but my grandpa is flying me up to his place in Tennessee for Thanksgiving. That is such a blessing...I remember what a huge relief it was last year at this time to just dump everything for a few days and spend time in total relaxation. The absence of anything to do (which would normally bother me) was exactly what I needed.
I am already starting to joyfully anticipate my return home. It's always a weird dichotomy. In one sense, I miss my Florida friends (whom I grow closer to all the time), but in the other, I'm so insanely happy to go home. There's no comparison as far as the climate goes. One friend told me when I mentioned I was considering NASA at Cape Kennedy for a career, "But you hate Florida!" I wouldn't say I hate it...not unless you do a qualitative comparison between Florida and the NW. Then, yeah...I pretty much hate Florida. But it's not a bad place, all in all. I just wish all the people I love could be in one place. I know....I'll make Embry-Riddle and all my Florida friends relocate to the NW. Then I'd never have to leave. It's a nice thought anyway. I guess the lack of separation will make Heaven all the more joyful, huh?
I got kinda scared yesterday. For really the first time this semester, I took a quantitative look at my grades, and wasn't pleased with what I discovered. I found that I have one A, three B's, and one C. NASTY! Those aren't horrible grades, but considering I have a 4.0 GPA up until this semester, those grades are far below my normal performance. While the discovery was rather unpleasant, I think it was exactly what was needed to remotivate me. It is still possible to pull out an A in every class, although it would take a miracle to do so in Dynamics (the class I have a C in right now). Good thing God's in the business of doing miracles! I also heard that the teacher may actually curve a little bit at the end of the year....if he does, that may just be my saving grace. But ultimately, all I can do is my best, and just let God handle the results.
Another thing adding to my busy schedule is a Bible study that I am starting up with Michael. He's a Resident Advisor on-campus, and has several kids in his hall that are interested in the study. He didn't want to run it completely himself (the University is pretty touchy about stuff like that), so he asked me to lead it. I am the primary facilitator, but he is of course there for backup, to stimulate discussion, etc. It's mostly evangelistic in nature, but there are one or two believers that will be coming as well. It makes me a bit nervous, because I've never led a Bible study before, but I think it will be a good experience. I just hope God uses us in the lives of these kids.
Beyond that, life goes on. The fleas still aren't completely gone, but they are fading slowly. The cat still hasn't returned. Work is going well, but I'm not getting the hours I need right now. Finances as a whole are still pretty tight, but my grandpa is flying me up to his place in Tennessee for Thanksgiving. That is such a blessing...I remember what a huge relief it was last year at this time to just dump everything for a few days and spend time in total relaxation. The absence of anything to do (which would normally bother me) was exactly what I needed.
I am already starting to joyfully anticipate my return home. It's always a weird dichotomy. In one sense, I miss my Florida friends (whom I grow closer to all the time), but in the other, I'm so insanely happy to go home. There's no comparison as far as the climate goes. One friend told me when I mentioned I was considering NASA at Cape Kennedy for a career, "But you hate Florida!" I wouldn't say I hate it...not unless you do a qualitative comparison between Florida and the NW. Then, yeah...I pretty much hate Florida. But it's not a bad place, all in all. I just wish all the people I love could be in one place. I know....I'll make Embry-Riddle and all my Florida friends relocate to the NW. Then I'd never have to leave. It's a nice thought anyway. I guess the lack of separation will make Heaven all the more joyful, huh?
Monday, October 22, 2007
C'est la vie
Yes, life goes on. The weekend was pretty good, actually. I have very few complaints. Friday was a rough day, since I didn't get to bed until around 2:30 a.m. I got my Fluid Mechanics homework done, but didn't even touch the Differential Equations homework. Fortunately for me, the professor didn't collect the assignment...it's not actually due until tomorrow at the test.
I spent most of Friday finalizing (and mailing) my application to NASA for their Undergraduate Student Research Program. I applied for all three sessions (Spring, Summer, and Fall). If accepted to the program, I would work for NASA as a research assistant at one of their 9 locations nationwide. I specified several preferred locations, but they will of course have the final word. The position pays $9,000 for the spring or fall sessions and $6,000 for the summer session. I really hope I can land a position with them or another company sometime this year...my resumé could really use the boost and delaying my degree by one semester would put me back on track (taking fall classes in the fall).
I tried to go to work Friday afternoon, but after about an hour, I began feeling rather nasty. Ty (my supervisor) suggested I hit the road if I wasn't feeling well. I was reluctant to lose the hours, but after another half-hour, I decided to take his advice. I went home and chilled for a while, and felt better after that. I then vacuumed the whole house in an attempt to quell the flea invasion.
To my great surprise (and relief), the vacuuming made an INCREDIBLE difference. I could walk around the house freely without being attacked. I sat down on the couch (a daring move) to watch Black Hawk Down later for a couple hours and was only bitten once in the entire time. It was wonderful.
Speaking of which, I'm so happy because I can actually watch movies again! I got tired of Jesse's possessed DVD player, so I went to Wal-Mart and got a $30 player. I hooked up the audio to the existing DVD system's audio-in channel and the video to the TV and Presto! I had DVD capability (with a great sound system). I was watching Black Hawk Down with the volume and subwoofer up so high that whenever something exploded, the couch shook. It was awesome. =P
Later on Friday, I got to hang out with Kelly and her boyfriend, John. I hadn't met him before. He's a pretty great guy...I think Kelly made the right choice. =) I went over to Kelly's apartment and we all had pizza, played Smash Brothers, and watched Brad Stine's newest DVD, Wussification. It was very funny (as always), but I think Tolerate This! was still the funniest.
Saturday was a pretty low-key day. I got up rather late, grabbed some food, and generally chilled until around time for CFC. After CFC, most of the gang headed out to Go-Kart City to play mini-golf and race go-karts, but I wasn't really up for that...so Bryan and Tom and I headed back to my place to watch Cars. I love that movie, haha.
Sunday was also pretty laid-back. Most of the church was at Celebration, so there was a sparse crowd. Tom and Bryan and I sat in the very front and held up three signs that read "We ♥U Dan" at the beginning of the service. That got a few laughs. After church, we grabbed lunch at Riddle, and I headed home for some HW. Later that night, they came back over along with Bryan's roommate (Will) and we watched Wild Hogs. That movie cracks me up...it's very funny, but very inappropriate in parts.
Today was a good day as well. I got up on time for once, spent some time with the Lord, and headed to Riddle to finish up some HW before class. I got some breakfast, and headed to class. It's funny how starting the day off right sets the tone for the whole day. =) Tonight I need to study Diff Eq for a while...I have that assignment due and a big midterm tomorrow in that class.
So...that was my life over the past few days in a nutshell. Pretty boring, I know, but that's how it goes. Only 7 weeks left of school and then finals...and then home for Christmas!! =D
I spent most of Friday finalizing (and mailing) my application to NASA for their Undergraduate Student Research Program. I applied for all three sessions (Spring, Summer, and Fall). If accepted to the program, I would work for NASA as a research assistant at one of their 9 locations nationwide. I specified several preferred locations, but they will of course have the final word. The position pays $9,000 for the spring or fall sessions and $6,000 for the summer session. I really hope I can land a position with them or another company sometime this year...my resumé could really use the boost and delaying my degree by one semester would put me back on track (taking fall classes in the fall).
I tried to go to work Friday afternoon, but after about an hour, I began feeling rather nasty. Ty (my supervisor) suggested I hit the road if I wasn't feeling well. I was reluctant to lose the hours, but after another half-hour, I decided to take his advice. I went home and chilled for a while, and felt better after that. I then vacuumed the whole house in an attempt to quell the flea invasion.
To my great surprise (and relief), the vacuuming made an INCREDIBLE difference. I could walk around the house freely without being attacked. I sat down on the couch (a daring move) to watch Black Hawk Down later for a couple hours and was only bitten once in the entire time. It was wonderful.
Speaking of which, I'm so happy because I can actually watch movies again! I got tired of Jesse's possessed DVD player, so I went to Wal-Mart and got a $30 player. I hooked up the audio to the existing DVD system's audio-in channel and the video to the TV and Presto! I had DVD capability (with a great sound system). I was watching Black Hawk Down with the volume and subwoofer up so high that whenever something exploded, the couch shook. It was awesome. =P
Later on Friday, I got to hang out with Kelly and her boyfriend, John. I hadn't met him before. He's a pretty great guy...I think Kelly made the right choice. =) I went over to Kelly's apartment and we all had pizza, played Smash Brothers, and watched Brad Stine's newest DVD, Wussification. It was very funny (as always), but I think Tolerate This! was still the funniest.
Saturday was a pretty low-key day. I got up rather late, grabbed some food, and generally chilled until around time for CFC. After CFC, most of the gang headed out to Go-Kart City to play mini-golf and race go-karts, but I wasn't really up for that...so Bryan and Tom and I headed back to my place to watch Cars. I love that movie, haha.
Sunday was also pretty laid-back. Most of the church was at Celebration, so there was a sparse crowd. Tom and Bryan and I sat in the very front and held up three signs that read "We ♥U Dan" at the beginning of the service. That got a few laughs. After church, we grabbed lunch at Riddle, and I headed home for some HW. Later that night, they came back over along with Bryan's roommate (Will) and we watched Wild Hogs. That movie cracks me up...it's very funny, but very inappropriate in parts.
Today was a good day as well. I got up on time for once, spent some time with the Lord, and headed to Riddle to finish up some HW before class. I got some breakfast, and headed to class. It's funny how starting the day off right sets the tone for the whole day. =) Tonight I need to study Diff Eq for a while...I have that assignment due and a big midterm tomorrow in that class.
So...that was my life over the past few days in a nutshell. Pretty boring, I know, but that's how it goes. Only 7 weeks left of school and then finals...and then home for Christmas!! =D
Friday, October 19, 2007
Refreshing
God was really faithful to bring me rejuvenation over the past two days in answer to my frustrations earlier this week. It was actually pretty amazing!
Wednesday was the day I was studying for my SE 300 (Team Software Engineering) class. I actually skipped most of my classes because studying took priority in this case. I met Steve-O for our weekly lunch, during which we sat down and did an activity mapping out how I spend my time each week. We found out that yes, I am indeed very busy. In fact, we discovered that after everything (including a few hours of planned leisure time), I have about 4 hours of free time a week. Yeah...kinda crazy.
So I took the SE 300 test and it really wasn't bad. There were a couple questions I was unsure of, but it's not like math or physics where there is absolutely one right answer. There was one question in particular that busted me...it read, "What is regression testing?" I (being the wise-guy that I am) said, "Regression testing is when you 'regret' not studying certain material for the upcoming SE 300 'test.'" Har har. But he did say at the beginning of class that if we could make him laugh, he might give us a bonus point. =P
After the test, I met briefly with Sean (President of Christian Fellowship Club). We discussed some questions/concerns I had about the club and my position in it, whether I was actually the Worship Coordinator or just the Worship Leader. I also had some things on my heart regarding the club's focus....it seems a little too superficial for me. More on that another time, but Sean agreed with me 100% and mentioned that there will be some changes in the near future.
I was driving home after this when Lazir called me up. He said, "Hey, we've got a free ticket to the Jeremy Camp concert...do you wanna go?" I hadn't had the resources to go to the concert before, so I wasn't planning on going. But evidently Kelly had paid for her ticket and then had not been able to go, so there was a spot open. I still was hesitant because of the workload I had. I ended up compromising by bringing my Fluid Mechanics book to the concert and studying it whenever the lights were on! I felt like a nerd (and made myself look like one when interviewed on camera for the host church), but at least I got some studying done.
In any case, the concert was AMAZING. Mainstay opened for Jeremy Camp, and they were both very good. Jeremy was doing the "Unplugged" tour, so he did a lot more worship songs (more of an acoustic sound) than normal. It was great...God totally ordained that I go last night because it was exactly what I needed to relax and refresh my relationship with Him. I honestly think last night (and today) was the closest I've felt to God in months.
Today was also a very good day. I work all day on Thursdays, and ended up spending the day working with Drew. He's a young guy that just got engaged recently, so I picked his brain a lot about his relationship...I'm always trying to glean advice from those going down the path before me, particularly in that area. Work was tiring, but mindless, so a good break from studying.
After work and a shower, I headed back to school. The Student Government Association shows free movies every Thursday night, and this week's movie was Transformers. I love that movie, so I couldn't pass it up. I hooked up with a couple of friends to see the show, grabbed some food afterward, and headed home.
I'm actually interrupting my work right now to write this. It's around 2:00 a.m. and I have yet to decide whether or not I'm going to sleep at all tonight. I knew when I went to the movie that I would have a late night (having two HW assignments due tomorrow that I hadn't started yet), but I'm still deliberating whether or not to bash out some other stuff that needs doing too. Hmm....to sleep or not to sleep...that is the question. Of course, even when I do "sleep," it's not that restful. I still haven't figured out if I have insomnia, sleep apnea, or all/none of the above. I really should go to the doctor for that someday.
Anyways...life goes on. Or as the French say, "C'est la vie..." =P
Wednesday was the day I was studying for my SE 300 (Team Software Engineering) class. I actually skipped most of my classes because studying took priority in this case. I met Steve-O for our weekly lunch, during which we sat down and did an activity mapping out how I spend my time each week. We found out that yes, I am indeed very busy. In fact, we discovered that after everything (including a few hours of planned leisure time), I have about 4 hours of free time a week. Yeah...kinda crazy.
So I took the SE 300 test and it really wasn't bad. There were a couple questions I was unsure of, but it's not like math or physics where there is absolutely one right answer. There was one question in particular that busted me...it read, "What is regression testing?" I (being the wise-guy that I am) said, "Regression testing is when you 'regret' not studying certain material for the upcoming SE 300 'test.'" Har har. But he did say at the beginning of class that if we could make him laugh, he might give us a bonus point. =P
After the test, I met briefly with Sean (President of Christian Fellowship Club). We discussed some questions/concerns I had about the club and my position in it, whether I was actually the Worship Coordinator or just the Worship Leader. I also had some things on my heart regarding the club's focus....it seems a little too superficial for me. More on that another time, but Sean agreed with me 100% and mentioned that there will be some changes in the near future.
I was driving home after this when Lazir called me up. He said, "Hey, we've got a free ticket to the Jeremy Camp concert...do you wanna go?" I hadn't had the resources to go to the concert before, so I wasn't planning on going. But evidently Kelly had paid for her ticket and then had not been able to go, so there was a spot open. I still was hesitant because of the workload I had. I ended up compromising by bringing my Fluid Mechanics book to the concert and studying it whenever the lights were on! I felt like a nerd (and made myself look like one when interviewed on camera for the host church), but at least I got some studying done.
In any case, the concert was AMAZING. Mainstay opened for Jeremy Camp, and they were both very good. Jeremy was doing the "Unplugged" tour, so he did a lot more worship songs (more of an acoustic sound) than normal. It was great...God totally ordained that I go last night because it was exactly what I needed to relax and refresh my relationship with Him. I honestly think last night (and today) was the closest I've felt to God in months.
Today was also a very good day. I work all day on Thursdays, and ended up spending the day working with Drew. He's a young guy that just got engaged recently, so I picked his brain a lot about his relationship...I'm always trying to glean advice from those going down the path before me, particularly in that area. Work was tiring, but mindless, so a good break from studying.
After work and a shower, I headed back to school. The Student Government Association shows free movies every Thursday night, and this week's movie was Transformers. I love that movie, so I couldn't pass it up. I hooked up with a couple of friends to see the show, grabbed some food afterward, and headed home.
I'm actually interrupting my work right now to write this. It's around 2:00 a.m. and I have yet to decide whether or not I'm going to sleep at all tonight. I knew when I went to the movie that I would have a late night (having two HW assignments due tomorrow that I hadn't started yet), but I'm still deliberating whether or not to bash out some other stuff that needs doing too. Hmm....to sleep or not to sleep...that is the question. Of course, even when I do "sleep," it's not that restful. I still haven't figured out if I have insomnia, sleep apnea, or all/none of the above. I really should go to the doctor for that someday.
Anyways...life goes on. Or as the French say, "C'est la vie..." =P
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Frustrations
There are a lot of things annoying me right now, but I'm trying not to let them get the best of me. Especially after God's miraculous financial provision this past week, I'm trying to be grateful...but it's not easy.
First of all, there's the fleas. They are still not gone yet...on the contrary, the traps are still collecting their bodies like they're going out of style. I actually found one biting my arm today while I was taking a nap. That's a first; I've never had one on me while I was in bed before.
The second major annoyance is just my schoolwork. The rapid pace here at ERAU is killing me. It wasn't bad near the beginning of the semester, because I had all day Thursday and nearly all day Tuesday to study and play catch-up. But now that I'm working on those days, I really only have evenings to do that...and more often than not, those become occupied as well. I am falling badly behind in Fluid Mechanics, and I'm not exactly "current" on any class except possibly Team Software Engineering. It's so hard to get caught up when you're behind. It will all come to a head soon, as midterm exams loom on the horizon. I have to be caught up by that point, or bad things will happen.
I guess those are just the two major annoyances that have me a bit frustrated right now. They're quite manageable, all in all...I just need to get my academic act together. Brittany (Jesse's sister) is going to take Lucy (the cat) to her vet to be de-fleaed. Once that happens, Lucy will actually be an ally against the fleas because she'll literally be a roving flea trap. Anyways, Brit is going out of town this weekend to Celebration (like HOFCC's Family Camp, almost), so that may not happen until next week.
All in all, life is going well. I have no complaints about the weather recently (although it is just a smidgeon hot today). I do want to be more faithful about getting up early to work out though...it always seems to set the tone for a successful day when I do so.
First of all, there's the fleas. They are still not gone yet...on the contrary, the traps are still collecting their bodies like they're going out of style. I actually found one biting my arm today while I was taking a nap. That's a first; I've never had one on me while I was in bed before.
The second major annoyance is just my schoolwork. The rapid pace here at ERAU is killing me. It wasn't bad near the beginning of the semester, because I had all day Thursday and nearly all day Tuesday to study and play catch-up. But now that I'm working on those days, I really only have evenings to do that...and more often than not, those become occupied as well. I am falling badly behind in Fluid Mechanics, and I'm not exactly "current" on any class except possibly Team Software Engineering. It's so hard to get caught up when you're behind. It will all come to a head soon, as midterm exams loom on the horizon. I have to be caught up by that point, or bad things will happen.
I guess those are just the two major annoyances that have me a bit frustrated right now. They're quite manageable, all in all...I just need to get my academic act together. Brittany (Jesse's sister) is going to take Lucy (the cat) to her vet to be de-fleaed. Once that happens, Lucy will actually be an ally against the fleas because she'll literally be a roving flea trap. Anyways, Brit is going out of town this weekend to Celebration (like HOFCC's Family Camp, almost), so that may not happen until next week.
All in all, life is going well. I have no complaints about the weather recently (although it is just a smidgeon hot today). I do want to be more faithful about getting up early to work out though...it always seems to set the tone for a successful day when I do so.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Journaling
Ok, so I've decided that journaling is a good idea, so I'm going to start posting on here more frequently. Each post may be tiny, but I will try to post at least once every couple days. I just think it'd be cool to have a written record of what was going on in my life at certain times so that I can look back one day and remember. My memory will not last forever.
Wow, there's a lot going on right now. I am back in school here at Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach. After talking to Stephen Edwards, a friend and mentor, I decided to change my major to Engineering Physics. I think it more accurately reflects the interest I have in advanced theoretical physics...much more so than engineering. It will be challenging, but enjoyable. EP is the most difficult degree program at ERAU, so the little free time I have now will soon be gone. AE and EP match up almost exactly for the first two years, so nearly all of my classes should transfer.
Speaking of classes, they're pretty crazy right now. I am currently taking Differential Equations, Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Dynamics, and Team Software Engineering. A couple aren't too difficult, but a couple others are simply nasty. Dynamics in particular is a nightmare. I will likely lose my perfect GPA this semester. I could still get A's in all my classes...but it would take a miracle. In one sense, it'd almost be nice to get just one B so that the pressure would be relieved and I could just do my best without having to obsess about landing an A for everything.
I am living in my associate pastor's house while he's away at Pastor's College. He (Jesse) is letting me live there for a discounted rate, because he knows that my roommate and I will take good care of the property. It has been a real blessing to live in such a beautiful little house, but it has had its share of headaches. These include a minor mold problem, our water once being shut off, one of his cats running away, and a flea infestation (supplied by the other cat, who managed to lose her flea collar). If I was faced with the choice again, I would likely still choose to live off-campus....but the headaches are rapidly catching up to the benefits.
Speaking of my roommate (Jonathan), he is a real crack-up. He's one of those characters that are very reserved and really keep to themselves. It takes a while to get to know him. But once you do get to know him, he's really a pleasure to be around. He's a very militaristic kind of guy...he trained to be an Air Force MP until he was given a medical discharge at the last minute. I feel bad for him. He really hates that discharge, but after being somehow injured during training, the Air Force didn't have much of a choice.
So that's my life at the moment. Lots of things going on (and more that I didn't list here), but rather enjoyable too. I'll try to journal more often, so if anyone actually reads these, check back soon!
Wow, there's a lot going on right now. I am back in school here at Embry-Riddle in Daytona Beach. After talking to Stephen Edwards, a friend and mentor, I decided to change my major to Engineering Physics. I think it more accurately reflects the interest I have in advanced theoretical physics...much more so than engineering. It will be challenging, but enjoyable. EP is the most difficult degree program at ERAU, so the little free time I have now will soon be gone. AE and EP match up almost exactly for the first two years, so nearly all of my classes should transfer.
Speaking of classes, they're pretty crazy right now. I am currently taking Differential Equations, Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Dynamics, and Team Software Engineering. A couple aren't too difficult, but a couple others are simply nasty. Dynamics in particular is a nightmare. I will likely lose my perfect GPA this semester. I could still get A's in all my classes...but it would take a miracle. In one sense, it'd almost be nice to get just one B so that the pressure would be relieved and I could just do my best without having to obsess about landing an A for everything.
I am living in my associate pastor's house while he's away at Pastor's College. He (Jesse) is letting me live there for a discounted rate, because he knows that my roommate and I will take good care of the property. It has been a real blessing to live in such a beautiful little house, but it has had its share of headaches. These include a minor mold problem, our water once being shut off, one of his cats running away, and a flea infestation (supplied by the other cat, who managed to lose her flea collar). If I was faced with the choice again, I would likely still choose to live off-campus....but the headaches are rapidly catching up to the benefits.
Speaking of my roommate (Jonathan), he is a real crack-up. He's one of those characters that are very reserved and really keep to themselves. It takes a while to get to know him. But once you do get to know him, he's really a pleasure to be around. He's a very militaristic kind of guy...he trained to be an Air Force MP until he was given a medical discharge at the last minute. I feel bad for him. He really hates that discharge, but after being somehow injured during training, the Air Force didn't have much of a choice.
So that's my life at the moment. Lots of things going on (and more that I didn't list here), but rather enjoyable too. I'll try to journal more often, so if anyone actually reads these, check back soon!
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Back at home again
It's been a while since I've posted on this blog, but I did have a bit of an excuse. Finals and term projects tend to kinda monopolize one's time! But after a week of going absolutely insane, I finally finished all my schoolwork and headed home for some much-needed R&R.
I got into the airport in Portland at about 6:15 pm (about 30 minutes early, much to my mom's chagrin). There was going to be a large crowd of people waiting for me at the gate, but since I was early, they had to come find me at the baggage claim area. All in all, over 20 people (not including my family) came to greet me at the airport. I felt very loved. =)
After grabbing dinner at Izzy's (a local pizza and buffet restaurant), my sister, Janelle, Kevin, and I headed down to south Portland. We killed some time at Wal-Mart and then went to the movie theater to meet another group of people at the midnight showing of Spiderman 3. The movie was very intense, but rather long. We didn't leave the theater until about 2:30 in the morning.
The next day was my 20th birthday. I can't belive I'm 20 now...it makes me feel like an old man. I'm no longer a teenager. In any case, my birthday was pretty low-key, which was fine. I went for a drive with my mom (it was WONDERFUL to drive a car again!!), and had pizza for dinner. It was a very relaxing birthday.
Since then, I've been redesigning my resumé, working on my book, doing "Sonnydo" chores, and generally chilling. I'm going to enjoy this week, because next week is when the work begins. I'm going to find a full-time job and spend a lot of time finding scholarships for next semester. I'm really looking forward to the end of this summer though....I think a few of my Florida friends are going to visit me here!
I got into the airport in Portland at about 6:15 pm (about 30 minutes early, much to my mom's chagrin). There was going to be a large crowd of people waiting for me at the gate, but since I was early, they had to come find me at the baggage claim area. All in all, over 20 people (not including my family) came to greet me at the airport. I felt very loved. =)
After grabbing dinner at Izzy's (a local pizza and buffet restaurant), my sister, Janelle, Kevin, and I headed down to south Portland. We killed some time at Wal-Mart and then went to the movie theater to meet another group of people at the midnight showing of Spiderman 3. The movie was very intense, but rather long. We didn't leave the theater until about 2:30 in the morning.
The next day was my 20th birthday. I can't belive I'm 20 now...it makes me feel like an old man. I'm no longer a teenager. In any case, my birthday was pretty low-key, which was fine. I went for a drive with my mom (it was WONDERFUL to drive a car again!!), and had pizza for dinner. It was a very relaxing birthday.
Since then, I've been redesigning my resumé, working on my book, doing "Sonnydo" chores, and generally chilling. I'm going to enjoy this week, because next week is when the work begins. I'm going to find a full-time job and spend a lot of time finding scholarships for next semester. I'm really looking forward to the end of this summer though....I think a few of my Florida friends are going to visit me here!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
St. Augustine
This last weekend was an absolute blast. A group of friends and I took a brief (but very fun!) road trip up to St. Augustine, which is about an hour or so up the coast to the north. Those who went included Josh, Casey, Chase, Kelly, Sarah, Craig, Tom, and myself. We got up there about 6:30 pm or so, fooled around at the hotel for a bit, and then went out to eat at a fairly nice restaurant called the Sunset Grille. They had VERY good food!
After going back to the hotel, we bravely tried to go swimming in the ocean, but decided after about 5 minutes that it was a bit too cold for our liking. We ended up just sitting on the seawall and playing charades! Eventually, we headed back to the hotel, played some rummy, and went to bed.
The next morning, we bugged the parrot in the hotel lobby, checked out, and went exploring in downtown St. Augustine. If you've never been there, it's REALLY cool. The streets are very narrow (some are pedestrian-only), and the buildings are all very old. There's probably a billion and one tourist shops and the streets are filled with vacationers. I love it.
Later on, we headed back to the beach for some "fun in the sun!" Kelly ruled us all at volleyball, but at least we tried, haha. We stayed there for a couple hours, briefly visited downtown again for ice cream, and then hit the road home.
The trip was a nice distraction from bothersome little things like, oh, say...finals! Ick. But it was a great mini-vacation and a sort of last hoorah celebrating our friendships before the end of the school year. I love you guys! Thanks for a great weekend!
P.S. Check out the video of this weekend on YouTube!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgbxxwz5y8o
After going back to the hotel, we bravely tried to go swimming in the ocean, but decided after about 5 minutes that it was a bit too cold for our liking. We ended up just sitting on the seawall and playing charades! Eventually, we headed back to the hotel, played some rummy, and went to bed.
The next morning, we bugged the parrot in the hotel lobby, checked out, and went exploring in downtown St. Augustine. If you've never been there, it's REALLY cool. The streets are very narrow (some are pedestrian-only), and the buildings are all very old. There's probably a billion and one tourist shops and the streets are filled with vacationers. I love it.
Later on, we headed back to the beach for some "fun in the sun!" Kelly ruled us all at volleyball, but at least we tried, haha. We stayed there for a couple hours, briefly visited downtown again for ice cream, and then hit the road home.
The trip was a nice distraction from bothersome little things like, oh, say...finals! Ick. But it was a great mini-vacation and a sort of last hoorah celebrating our friendships before the end of the school year. I love you guys! Thanks for a great weekend!
P.S. Check out the video of this weekend on YouTube!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgbxxwz5y8o
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Soccer and Papers...
Today was a pretty typical Sunday, which means busy. I woke up at the nice, restful hour of 9:15, made myself some coffee, and went downstairs to meet Kelly and Tom for church. Kelly was changing it up a bit this week (per my request) and visiting my church. I explained to her that since I talk about my Riddle friends at church, I wanted her to meet them so they know who I'm talking about!
Church was great. Worship was good, the sermon was great, and Kelly was well-liked (as I knew she would be). After the service, Kelly, Tom, Steven, Drew, and I went out to lunch at Panera Bread. Good food, but kinda expensive. We came back to school, where I worked on a nasty paper I'm writing for my current issues class.
Around 3:45, Ryan picked up Chase, Tom, and me to go play soccer with some people from our church. Kelly was thinking about coming, but decided she needed to do some homework and get some rest. Soccer was great, but tiring (as usual). We play for about three hours, so it does tend to wear me out!
I came back from soccer, took a shower, grabbed some food, and now I'm sitting down to finish my paper. Ugh...I really dislike it. I'm supposed to write on the Walter Reed Hospital "scandal;" what it was, the issues involved, who was responsible, etc. I don't like the subject matter for two reasons. First, I think the media is overhyping what is going on there (what a surprise!). Second, I just get tired of reading articles written by knee-jerk liberals who can do nothing but complain! Argh. Only 9 class days left...then finals...then I'm home for the summer!! =)
Church was great. Worship was good, the sermon was great, and Kelly was well-liked (as I knew she would be). After the service, Kelly, Tom, Steven, Drew, and I went out to lunch at Panera Bread. Good food, but kinda expensive. We came back to school, where I worked on a nasty paper I'm writing for my current issues class.
Around 3:45, Ryan picked up Chase, Tom, and me to go play soccer with some people from our church. Kelly was thinking about coming, but decided she needed to do some homework and get some rest. Soccer was great, but tiring (as usual). We play for about three hours, so it does tend to wear me out!
I came back from soccer, took a shower, grabbed some food, and now I'm sitting down to finish my paper. Ugh...I really dislike it. I'm supposed to write on the Walter Reed Hospital "scandal;" what it was, the issues involved, who was responsible, etc. I don't like the subject matter for two reasons. First, I think the media is overhyping what is going on there (what a surprise!). Second, I just get tired of reading articles written by knee-jerk liberals who can do nothing but complain! Argh. Only 9 class days left...then finals...then I'm home for the summer!! =)
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Another successful tutoring session...
Ok, so tonight was cool. I went to grab some food with Kelly and then came back to my room to work on statics. Kelly brought her physics homework over, and proceeded to work on it, occasionally hitting me up with questions. Chase dropped by later on for another guitar lesson, so I taught him the E-minor and C-major chords. He found the E-minor rather nice...the C-major not so much so!!
It's neat how I always end up sharing what I know (no matter how little!) with others. Ever since eighth grade, I've been a tutor. I typically don't get paid for it, even when I'm supposed to. I just never press the issue. It seems weird to me to charge for imparting information to my friends. I guess that's one of my goodwill services to mankind....free tutoring! =)
An unfortunate side effect of this free tutoring is a late bedtime. It's currently 1:28 a.m. *Yawn*....
It's neat how I always end up sharing what I know (no matter how little!) with others. Ever since eighth grade, I've been a tutor. I typically don't get paid for it, even when I'm supposed to. I just never press the issue. It seems weird to me to charge for imparting information to my friends. I guess that's one of my goodwill services to mankind....free tutoring! =)
An unfortunate side effect of this free tutoring is a late bedtime. It's currently 1:28 a.m. *Yawn*....
Monday, April 9, 2007
Current Picture and Video Links
To see the videos I've uploaded thus far, click on this link:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ThunderBird18&search=Search
To see pictures I've uploaded, click here:
http://s155.photobucket.com/albums/s311/ThunderBird2007/
I will post on here every time I load new stuff, so check back often!
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ThunderBird18&search=Search
To see pictures I've uploaded, click here:
http://s155.photobucket.com/albums/s311/ThunderBird2007/
I will post on here every time I load new stuff, so check back often!
The New Update Interface
I decided to create this blog as a better way to keep my friends and family updated on what's going on in my crazy life at school. My goal is for this blog to be a one-stop shop for people who want to know how I'm doing. I plan to post links to videos on YouTube, pictures on Photobucket, etc. I hope to update this blog at least once a week, probably more frequently.
So...check back frequently to see what's new! =)
So...check back frequently to see what's new! =)
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