A Day In The Life

Dry Socket (To Me!)

2010-07-14T23:59:00.000-05:00

Well, it happened. I ended up getting a dry socket from my wisdom teeth coming out. Gross. But it's all good. It wasn't as bad as everyone made it out to be-much like the entire process of getting the teeth out themselves. I just had a small bit of discomfort, and am officially on my way to recovery! I am completely off of the intense pain meds and am starting to ween off of the ibuprofen. The stitches are even starting to dissolve and come out. Ladies and Gentlemen, I expect a full recovery in no time! :)

And this weekend has wonderful things in store! I will be heading back North on 35 to DFW for the weekend. I'm hoping to get off on Friday so that I can make it in town last Thursday/early Friday, but right now it's looking more like Friday evening. I am getting a haircut on Saturday and then all day Saturday/Sunday I am spending time with Ashley as she looks for her wedding dress! Wooohooo. I'm so excited! It should be an adventure since I'll be there with 2 moms, 2 brides, and 1 pregnant woman. Oh, bring on the tissues!

XOXO-Heather

Words of Wisdom (Teeth)

2010-07-07T00:37:00.000-05:00

Well, ladies and gentlemen--I am a little embarrassed. It has been over a month since my last entry, and I have no excuses. However, I will admit that with work consuming my life, there really isn't much to update you all on. In fact, this week's events have probably been the most interesting and noteworthy since May.

This past Friday my older sister, Samantha, got engaged! I am so excited and happy for her I can hardly contain myself! She has been through so much in her life, and it is so beautiful and inspirational to see her life coming together in front of all of our lives. Not to mention, today she found out that she got THE job that she has been wanting/needing in order for her and my nephew to finally move down south and start spending their lives with their new family. The wedding is set for October, and I can't wait!! Between Samantha and Ashley getting married, I am gaining 2 new brothers and an even bigger and better family. God is great!

Today I woke up at 7am and went to have my Wisdom teeth taken out. I was so nervous! I have heard horror stories because I needed all 4 out and apparently that's the worst kind of way to need them out. But I sucked it up, and made it through. Surprisingly I am doing extremely well from what I've heard. I have been up all day, with few naps, and was even able to eat some pasta tonight. My jaw hurts, I'm sure I'll be sore tomorrow, and my swelling should begin overnight, but my pain meds and my family are wonderful and a girl really can't complain about recovering surrounded by so much support. My best friend Manda even came by today to veg out with me (I'm happy to announce that she's pregnant, by the way!! You'll hear more about that over the next 8 months, so be excited). All in all I can't really complain.

XOXO-Heather

If You Don't Like Our Wings...We'll Give You The Bird!

2010-05-25T09:34:00.000-05:00

Well I am officially an employee at Pluckers Wing Bar in Austin, Texas!

I had applied and got hired back in April, but due to finals wasn't able to officially start until last Thursday. Now as I am about halfway through my training, I can finally say that I am on my way to being a server again! I know I had told myself, and many of you, that I would never be a server/waitress again, but things change. You can't be having cash every night when your shift ends. Plus, I feel like everything is coming back to me just like riding a bike. And, I applied and took the job at Pluckers for the sole purpose of moving up to the bar as soon as possible, and have been told that if I do well enough I will get up to that position quickly. I want to put in about a year or so at the bar there before maybe moving up to 6th or something like that. One of my biggest dreams is to eventually open up my own bar, so I'm hoping that Pluckers will eventually move me up to the bar and give me the experience I need to decide if this dream is attainable and for me. We shall see. Until then, I will be working a shift every day this week and next week I will be an official server with my own section on the floor. Can't wait to start making that money!! :)

XOXO-Heather

Don't Buy It!!

2010-05-10T11:22:00.001-05:00

Did you know that the average student will spend over $500 per term buying textbooks? Seems like an awful lot of money to buy textbooks that often get opened one time, right? Well, with Chegg.com, you will save hundreds!
So stop wasting your money and start renting from Chegg.com. I’m on the bandwagon and I’ve saved enough to buy all my term papers! Not really, but I have saved some serious cash by Chegging my books. I have a promo code that will save you an additional 5% off your total order, useCC102277.
Want proof?
Essential Biology by Campbell, Reece & Simon is $83.18 if you buy it on Amazon.com. If you rent it on Chegg.com, it’s only $11.78. That’s a savings of over $71!
It’s so simple, just search for the books you need and place your order. Chegg will ship them to you fast and at the end of the term you ship them back for free. What’s really cool is that they plant a tree for every order.
Don’t forget to visit Chegg.com and use promo code CC102277.

Happy Summer!!!

2010-05-07T12:21:00.000-05:00

Well. I made it! I finished my 4 exams and 1 presentation this week, and I made it out alive. I ended up making that B in advertising that I needed for transferring into PR, and I don't have to take the final! That means no finals for me. That means it's officially summer! Can I get an amen?! No classes until August. Woot Woot.

I'm heading up to DFW in about an hour so I can be at home for Mother's Day. Tonight I actually get to see some of my friends for drinks so I'm really excited about that :) Should be a great weekend. Then Monday I start at Pluckers and I'll hit the ground running with work for the rest of the summer. I'm excited!

On another note, I have started a devotional. I was thinking the other day about how much I miss church, but still haven't found one that fits me down here. So I decided to take it upon myself to find a devotional so that I could spend some daily time with God and get a little bit more faith in my life. I prayed about it, and finally found one I like. It's called "new day. new you." It's a short devotion (literally a paragraph) a day that you read with your morning coffee. It's beautiful and I've already read it for 3 days now. It makes me excited to wake up in the morning and learn something new that God wants me to know. How exciting :)

Well time to get ready to head out!
XOXO~Heather

Winding Down && Speeding Up

2010-05-04T18:00:00.000-05:00

Well, this week is super-packed with end of semester activities. This week will be tough academically, but I don't have any finals, so I really can't complain. Here's my week:
Monday-Advertising Exam
Wednesday-Physical Science Exam
Thursday-Marketing Exam, Government Exam, Rhetoric Presentation

As you can see, it's pretty busy (especially Thursday). I've been running around and logging in extra hours at the library. I can't wait until Thursday at 5pm when the semester will officially be over. I decided not to take classes this summer since it wouldn't benefit my graduation plan at all, and would only result in more college loans. So, I've decided to work throughout the break.

That reminds me! I haven't shared with the cyberworld that I have a job! Yes, you heard it right, folks. I have been hired on as a server (potential bartender) at Pluckers Wing Bar. Pluckers, for those of you who don't know, is a wing and bar establishment similar to Buffalo Wild Wings. I'll be serving tables, and hopefully work my up through the bar by the end of the summer. Cross your fingers that this works out for me, because it looks like fun and is a great opportunity for me. I have orientation on Monday and start training Tuesday! Then I'll be working probably 35-40 hours a week from here on out until school starts back up in August. I'm excited to relax and only work, but I know those man-hours will catch up to me. I really hope someone has a hot tub handy for my feet since I'll be on them 24/7.

XOXO~Heather

This Will Be An Everlasting Love

2010-04-30T15:11:00.000-05:00

There are few times in a person's life in which they can honestly say that something they planned was nothing short of perfection. I, ladies and gentlemen, am able to say-with great confidence-that the only word to describe the engagement party last weekend would be: PERFECT. I didn't forget anything, I was under budget, everyone had a great time, and the weather couldn't have been any better. It was pretty windy at first, but as soon as 7:30 (the official start of the party) hit, the wind died down and we were all able to enjoy the beautiful sun setting on the water of Eagle Mountain Lake.

I would like to attribute the perfection of the party to the multiple contributors who made the budget possible, and to my hours and hours of planning in which I literally wrote down every word in a journal (seriously-you should see that poor little defenseless notebook now that I'm done with it). I really hope that my sister and her fiance enjoyed themselves and are officially ready to start planning the wedding, and more importantly-their marriage. I am so happy for them both! :)

XOXO-Heather

Northbound 35!

2010-04-21T19:32:00.000-05:00

Well this time tomorrow I will be packed up and heading North to DFW! I can't wait to spend this weekend with my friends and family. I really hope this engagement party is everything Ashley could have hoped for (and more). She deserves to have this party in honor of her beautiful relationship and engagement with my future brother-in-law and the love of her life. It's nice to see such a young couple find it early in their lives and never take a single second for granted. Why not celebrate that?!

I have so much to do this weekend that I ~~probably~~ definitely won't have time to update my blog. So here's the skinny: as of tomorrow I will be done with all exams and papers until the week of May 1. What a relief! Hopefully work can schedule me for training next week since my schedule is wide open at this point and Lord knows I need that money, honey!

I went to my advising appointment today, and get this-he was actually pretty helpful! I'm looking forward to my classes this summer. I might take a fun class or two, but I have a feeling that Spanish is more realistically in my future. Then next semester I will probably take various journalism and business courses. Should be fun! And good news: it's looking like I am still right on track to graduate in December 2011! A semester later than originally planned when I started school, but not bad for changing my major 2 years in to a completely opposite field of study. Wahoooo.

So many things to look forward to and to be grateful for!
XOXO-Heather

Great Day!

2010-04-20T16:13:00.000-05:00

I am having such a fantastic day that I felt the need to share it with all of you! I am literally having the best day I've had in a long, long, long time. Let me break it down for you.

I made just the right amount of coffee. Normally I have a cup or two leftover due to not getting up early enough, not wanting to take a cup with me to class, not being in the mood, etc. Sometimes I don't make enough either. But today, I made the perfect amount-one cup for the house, and one for the road! I even finished all of my to-go cup before class. This made for a very awake and very productive Heather!

I caught the bus just in time. Tuesdays and Thursdays are so crowded on the bus at 9:30. Therefore you have to show up for the 8:55am bus or you'll have to walk. I got downstairs just as the bus was about to leave (8:56am). The bus driver was kind enough to wait for me to board the bus. I got to class on time, was able to drink my coffee in peace, and even caught up on some internet chit-chat while waiting for class to start.

I started a new Blog. I had an epiphany on the way to class this morning, and decided to start a new blog. It's all about being single and loving it in the great city of Austin, Texas. Sadly, this means that I will be getting rid of "The Daily Dish". I apologize to my 2 avid followers. I haven't updated it in too long, and frankly I'm running out of things to bitch about :P The new site is http://singlegirlswag.wordpress.com

Ashley got the job! She's been looking forward to getting this job ever since she interviewed for it last Thursday. She thought she hadn't gotten it, but was pleasantly surprised with the job offer this morning! She will be a worker in the student health center and will be working under University's director of health education. Perfect!!!

The chairs and tables are booked! My dad came to the rescue this morning and ordered the tables/chairs for the engagement party this weekend. And the best news of all? It came like $15 under budget!! Woohooo definitely news to be happy about!

My class got canceled. My 3:30 class got canceled. This not only means no class, but it means no presentations. That means I have an extra 2 days to work on the project that was originally due today. Editing, anyone? :)

I finished my Writing requirement for government. There are 5 in-class writing assignments in my government class. 3 are required in order to get full participation credit for the course. Somehow I managed to complete 2, but miss the other 2. Today I went to class and (thankfully) she offered the last one and I was there for it! Yay for 100% participation. Oh, and she canceled class for Thursday!

I get to play tennis tonight. I'm going out to the courts tonight around 5 to play tennis with Meena, Jordan, and Jenna finally! I have been wanting to play ever since I bought my racket last semester. The weather is finally beautiful and our schedules have finally lined up! I'm excited!

I scheduled my advising appointment. I thought it would be more difficult, but within my 5 minute phone call with the communications advising office, I made an appointment for tomorrow at 5pm. Hopefully this one goes better than last semester-my advisor is kind of a jerk. But this means my bars will be cleared for my registration on Friday!

I get to sleep in tomorrow. That means I get to catch up on all of my shows, re-edit my papers, start on some textbook notes, clean my room, and start packing for the weekend. Basically I'm going to get things done tonight!

As you can see, I have had an absolutely fantastic day so far. Here's to having a better evening-if that's even possible!

XOXO
Heather

Chili Fest 2010

2010-04-16T13:56:00.000-05:00

Alright. I have finally recovered from the fantastic week that was Chili Fest 2010. It was a blast, and there are so many memories that I will forever keep from the weekend.

Early Saturday morning, I packed up the car and headed out to College Station with one of my roommates, Meena, and one of my very best friends, Jordan. After a couple of wrong turns, we finally arrived at Ashely's apartment around 10:30am. We quickly ate some Lane's Chicken and headed out to Snook, Texas-10 miles away from Ashley's place-for the concert that started at 11am. The music was great, the people-watching was better, and I couldn't have picked a better day or a better group of people to be there with. I must say that I am hooked, and I am quietly considering entering the competition next year. We've already kind of been buzzing around the idea of a "Team Divided" team that includes an equal partnership between Aggies and Longhorns, which is sure to shake things up at Chili Fest 2011. :)

I fell in love, once again, with Texas Country. Here was the lineup:
Corry Morrow
Roger Creger
Eli Young Band
Aaron Watson (my current loooooove)
Dwight Yaokem (don't think I spelled it right, but you get the point)

I can't wait to go back next year! I'm hooked ;)
XOXO-Heather

Time to Dust Off This Keyboard...

2010-04-11T17:37:00.000-05:00

Yet again, I sit here apologizing for not updating this blog. I've had a pretty lame and boring couple of weeks since Spring Break, but I guarantee you that (if I can find the time) there will be plenty of exciting events to discuss here so be READY! :)

I made it through last week's tough week of 3 exams that were basically back-to-back. I even surfaced alive! Although, I must admit that I am pretty sure I suffered from some kind of exhaustion somewhere in there. However, I don't have a project/test/paper really due for another 3 weeks, so looking back it wasn't so bad, and now I get to have fun! I just got back from Chili Fest in College Station today. I had so much fun! I will probably write an entire blog dedicated to that either tomorrow or Tuesday, so get excited! (However if you are too impatient, feel free to check out my Facebook photo album...there are pictures that halfway tell the story there.)

This week I will be tending to my massive, yet reasonable, to-do list to get the ball rolling on the next 3 weeks of fun/craziness/traveling/etc. Here are the upcoming events on my social and academic calendar:
Wednesday: Brandon Ryder Concert
Thursday: Beer Pong Practice
Friday: Midnight Rodeo to celebrate Shauna's 21st Birthday (Manda, Bonnie, Josh, and John in town)
Saturday: Shauna's birthday dinner and Beer Pong Tournament 2010 :)
Next Weekend: DFW and Ashley&Phillip's Engagement Party (SIDE NOTE: IF YOU HAVEN'T RSVPED YET PLEASE DO ASAP!!!)

And mixed in there are plenty of 21st birthdays scattered about. Okay, who are we kidding-there are no academic moments in any of that :P But I will say that I plan on meeting an advisor this week to go over my schedule for Summer/Fall classes. Please say a special prayer or cross your fingers or do whatever it is that you do, that I make it into the College of Communications this semester. If I don't, I will most likely have to abort this major, and move on to another degree plan. Ho Ho Hum...

I'm trying to find a job as a bartender somewhere in the Austin. Now that I have a car (see post below for more details) I can actually expand my radius of job searching and use my contacts! Wish me luck :)

Well, that's all for today, folks!
XOXO-Heather

Spring Break!!

2010-03-20T11:07:00.000-05:00

Well, I have been putting off this update for quite some time now (a week to be exact) because so much has happened in such a short period of time, and I've been quite busy this week. So here goes nothing...

Spring Break has been very good to me. Although I expected slightly warmer temperatures, and didn't get a chance to lay out by the pool and start tanning season off right, I did get plenty more out of it than I ever could have anticipated. Surprisingly, though, it didn't turn out at all like I had expected. I figured that as soon as I got in town Friday morning, I'd hit the ground running and spend my week in DFW the usual way: parties, hanging out with friends, a little bit of shopping, and some family time sprinkled in here and there. However, I ended up spending the entire first weekend of my spring break strictly with family, and you won't hear me complaining about that! The rest of the week turned into a similar story. I ended up spending more time with my family, and mixing in small doses of family time here and there. It was a very relaxing and refreshing way to spend my week at home. However, I will say that I have officially decided to spice things up next year, seeing as though it will be my last (hopefully) college spring break, by making a big trip down to South Padre! :]

I've also been planning weddings, engagement parties, and bridal stuff with my sisters all week. I am so unbeleivably happy for them that I can hardly hold in my excitement at the next couple of years ahead. Things are finally coming together for my family, and I couldn't be more ecstatic about it!

April is going to be a full month for me. I have plans in place for every single weekend, while fitting in schoolwork during the week. I have a feeling that my sleeping in days are officially over, and now it's time to start doing work! But I must say that I am strangely at peace with it all. Call it the morning cup of coffee, call it an overwhelming eagerness, call it motivation, call it whatever. I am about to make the biggest push through a semester that I've ever made. BRING IT ON!!

And now for the most exciting news of all...I GOT A CAR!! My dad surprised me when I got home last Friday morning by saying that he wanted to go car shopping ASAP to find me a car. We found one (thanks to his awesome pre-search) immediately, and by Saturday evening I was sporting a cute 2003 Dodge Neon 4Door. I don't think there are words to describe the feeling I have when I sit behind the wheel of my new car. I think the only word that comes to mind is simply: independent. I haven't needed a car necessarily over the past 3 years in college, but I will say that I have a whole new range of opportunities waiting for me in Austin now. I no longer have to feel guilty about needing to go to the grocery store or pharmacy. I can finally visit my grandparents in Georgetown more often, and make trips to College Station to see Ashley. I have a freedom that lets me go whereever, whenever, and I am extremely thankful for that. My parents are so good to me! :)

Well, I guess that's all of the update I have for now. I'll be leaving the DFW area tomorrow morning around 9 or 10 to head back home. I'll miss home, but I am excited to hit the ground running to finish the Spring Semester off with a bang!

Heather

2010-03-03T16:25:00.000-06:00

Well, it seems that I have officially survived the first round of midterms for the Spring 2010 semester. Wahoooo! All I have is one more tough exam, and one easy exam between me and spring break!

I'll be back in HEB for spring break. It's not exactly the South Padre trip that I had expected out of my first officially 21 spring break, but when other obligations arise, and money is tight, you really don't have much of a choice lol. Instead, I will be spending spring break planning the engagement party and relaxing at home with family and friends. Cross your fingers for a fun and refreshing week! Then it'll be onto April that promises to be jam-packed every weekend. I really hope it's as much fun as it promises to be :)

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T15:16:00.000-06:00

In my lifetime, I have heard a whole list about the depression that surrounds today. Single girls say today is depressing, surrounded by commercial pressure, "Single Awareness Day (SAD)," a reminder of how lonely they are, a day of disgust & parading of those who have someone. Taken girls complain about high expectations that are never reached, and how it's about who gives the better gift. To put it blunty, I'm sick and tired of all of it.

For all the single girls: Get over it. There's nothing attractive about bitter girls. So you were hurt in the past, so you're lonely, so you're jealous of the girl sitting next to you who got flowers from her boyfriend-WHO ISN'T?! Instead of surrounding today with those feelings, how about you look around and realize that today is about appreciating and respecting love, and love comes in all different shapes and sizes. Love is more than a warm body sleeping next to you, it's more than kisses and hugs and soulmates. Love can be your dad's reassuring voice when you're unsure about the future, your mom's hugs when you just simply need one, your sister's kind words of wisdom, your brother's offer to kick your exboyfriend's ass, your best friend's unwavering support of you even when you can't seem to look at yourself in the mirror, and even your favorite song who seems to know just when to pop up in your shuffle on iTunes. So instead of wimpering in the corner about how lonely you are because you don't have a man/woman to kiss you, how about you look at those who have truly loved you deeper than anything for your entire life? Honor them. They deserve it. Afterall, they've been there for every single Valentine's Day-ranging from celebrating the beautiful and romantic dinners to listening with a sympathetic ear to those that ruined your romantic view of relationships and love.

For all the taken girls: The hype about Valentine's Day is nothing more than what you make of it. Remember that first Valentines Day you ever had? Remember how simple it had to be? You were okay with a simple cheap dinner at the local Chili's and maybe a box of chocolates. Remember how you blushed when he kissed you goodnight and you couldn't stop dreaming about how romantic even his sloppy eating habits were? And now you're setting high expectations and ultimatums for a perfect dinner to top last year's valentines day. You read too far into it if he doesn't have enough money to buy you that gold diamond bracelet you've been hinting at (reminder: Christmas was a mere 2 months away...if he met your expectations for that holiday gift, chances are his wallet hasn't quite recovered fully yet). Valentines Day should be a simple reminder that you appreciate the love and relationship you two have, not a series of expectations and to-do lists for both of you to check off by the end of the night. Sit back and enjoy love. I know many women who would kill to have a Big Mac and a small box of candy hearts today if that meant they were given to her by the man she loves.

Now I will admit that these are generalizations. There are many people out there who have it right. [Give yourselves a round of applause, please.] For the rest of you, though, I hope this gave you a swift kick to realize that today should be more than unmet expectations and bitterness. Today should be about appreciation and what the base of this whole holiday is-LOVE.

As for me, I am continually grateful for the love and support of each and every person in my life. I'd like to think that I tell you all that every day, but sometimes I get so wrapped up in "me world"-yes even I get it wrong sometimes-and forget. I would be nowhere without the caring and compassionate people in my life. My family. My friends. You are my life and my support and I am eternally thankful for everything you do for me. :)

XOXO~Heather

If You Can't Stand the Heat...

2010-02-11T18:34:00.000-06:00

Ever since the terrible happenings of last semester, I have vowed to never complain about my living situation again. I have incredible roommates, and a beautiful condo located in the heart of UT's West Campus (the social epicenter of the entire student body). I have my own room, TV, and I am eternally grateful for everything.

However, on a day like today I feel the need to bring out that soap box from the closet, dust it off, and spend a few minutes of my time venting. Today it is a chilly 35 degrees in Austin, TX. I realize it's not as cold as the snow-filled DFW, which stands at a current 30, but it is a decent burst of cold air for any Texan. And so I arm myself with a giant coat, scarf, rainboots (because it refuses to snow here and instead we must settle for freezing rain), and my trusty pink umbrella. I will admit the cold is a rush and one can't help but shiver when the wind blows just the right way and somehow manages to surpass the many layers of clothing. I have made the trek across campus today to my classes, and I will say that nothing is more comforting on days like today than a nice burst of warm air as soon as you walk through the door of your condo/apartment.

But as I walk through the doors and start to thaw out from the outdoor cold, I begin to climb my spiral staircase up to my lofted bedroom that rests atop the kitchen of our condo. About 6 or 7 steps up I am hit with a hot draft coming from the large vent that is used to heat up the entire condo. I cough and can immediately detect the stale air feeling that comes from those hot, sunny Texas summer days. As I continue to climb the stairs, I realize that this feeling isn't going away. In fact, it gets worse. Once I finally reach my room I open the door and am greeted by stale, stagnant, humid, and downright HOT temperatures. My comfortable oasis soon turns into a Tropical pit of sweat. And all at once I am reminded of a small, yet important physical fact: heat rises.

Now I understand that downstairs the temperature is perfect. I recognize that the other 2 bedrooms of this condo tend to get drafty and cool as they both have windows connected to the outside elements. I even remember that other than the 3 winter months of the year (Dec-Feb) I am usually very comfortable with the temperature. I even have an overhead fan and a stand alone fan that I have tried countless times to circulate this heat. I leave the door open, I wear tank tops and shorts, I even do my homework downstairs. But at night, I can't help but be extremely uncomfortable-to put it nicely. I toss and turn well into the night (3am usually) and sometimes am even driven to the point of nausea and vomiting. I go through about 2 glasses of ice water a night, which results in several trips to the bathroom as you may have guessed based on your own experiences.

I guess all I really want is for my roommates to understand where I'm coming from. One doesn't ever say anything, but another tends to complain about how cold her room is and is constantly messing with the thermostat (currently set at heat and 85 degrees...making my room an easy 90 degrees). I believe she likes it warm enough for her thin sheet-like top blanket and shorts be comfortable for sleep. I don't complain to them. I keep it on hot temperatures for most of the day. I don't say anything. I suck it up. I just wish they'd at least let me mess with the thermostat until we can come to an agreement on what temperature and what settings we need to keep it on. I wish they'd let me have those 8 hours at night when they can be snuggling up in warm sheets to have that cooler temperature. Afterall, I believe it is more understandable to adjust the temperature for everyone to be able to sleep, than keep it from being at a temperature that makes you want to stay in bed and cuddle than get up. And with that, I will merely state an obvious fact: it is easier and more socially acceptable to wear sweats and put on more layers than it is to walk around the condo naked. That is all.

XOXO-Heather

Things I've Learned

2010-02-09T22:47:00.000-06:00

There is a beautiful peace that comes with solitude. Since Sunday I have decided to take some time to think things over by myself. I originally planned on keeping my distance to give him space, but in doing so I actually gathered my own thoughts and made some decisions on my own. Is there something in the future? Maybe. Anything soon? Not a chance. There are too many bridges that have been burned, too many hurtful things said, and two stubborn brains and hearts too full of pride to let it go and move forward. I have reviewed the past 6 months and this is what I've decided has been bothering me, what I've learned, and what I will take away from all of this.

I am a damn good catch.
I have not forgotten how to compromise.
I need to work on being patient and enjoying the moment.
I will not apologize for expressing my feelings.
I am ready for a real, long lasting relationship.
I can feel strong feelings for someone.
I will not settle on my priorities, wants, dreams, etc.
I need to admit when I am wrong more often.
My friends are better judges of character than I am.
Long distance relationships are hard to begin, maintain, and make last.
If I don't feel the need to introduce someone to my parents, that probably means something.
Just because 2 people have been through the same thing, doesn't mean they have healed the same way.
Affection means more to me than I thought.

Home Sweet Home

2010-02-06T18:46:00.000-06:00

Sometimes you forget how much home means to you. I like to come back at least once a month to remind myself just how lucky I am to be so close to my family. You can't beat a home cooked meal, long conversations with your parents, and playing with your dog :)

I've been planning up a storm lately working on Ashley and Phillip's Engagement party. I've been trying to get some major plans in motion and get the ball rolling on logistics. I'm hoping that it will be everything that they want and deserve. Cross your fingers the planning doesn't kill me in the process haha.

Well the Salmon Patties are reading, and the fish is almost fried. Time to go eat a delicious meal with my parents before heading to to my best friend, Manda's house for a small going away party for her husband who will be leaving for basic training next week. Have a great weekend, all!

Heather

2010-02-04T16:06:00.000-06:00

With my 3:30 class canceled, and a single, 30min class between me and a relaxing weekend in DFW, I felt the need to spread some of my good cheer to all those who have graced me with their presence on my blog. Here are a few sayings/words/statements that have me me laugh, smile, or cheer up. Feel free to read on and further enjoy your day if you're already having a great one, or turn yours around if your Thursday is a "not so much" day. :)

"TOYOTA: moving forward even when you don't want to."

"When you stop wondering where you're going, you finally enjoy where you are."

"Dear Ke$ha, Jack Daniels is not toothpaste. Nor is it an adequate substitute. I bet you drive your dentist crazy."

"You have 3 choices: Give up, Give in, or Give it your all."

"Don't take life too seriously. No one gets out alive."

"Admit your errors before someone else exaggerates them."

"In just 2 days, tomorrow will be yesterday."

"When nothing goes right, go left."

"Finish your beer. There are sober kids in India."

~XOXO~Heather

Wooooo Weekend :)

2010-01-31T15:46:00.000-06:00

I would have to say that this past week wasn't as productive as I had hoped it would be. I got a little distracted. However, I will say that if there was one week to get off track, last week was it. Now I plan on getting things done this week in a way that I never have. I have a To-Do list organized and ready to go and be crossed off. I plan on kicking butt today and taking names!

In my Rhetoric class, I was assigned a writing prompt to write a 4-6 page paper over the next 3 weeks over a topic that is widely debated today. After some deep thought, I decided that I would write about sex ed policies in Texas public high schools. I'm not really sure how it will turn out or what my specific opinion is, but I think we all can agree that with the growing teen pregnancy and STD rates, that the current policies need to be adjusted in some way. Yesterday I went to Barnes & Noble and bought a book called SexSmart: 501 Reasons to Hold Off on Sex. It should prove to be a valuable resource in alternative ways to teach abstinance to our teens today. I'm pretty excited that I chose a topic that is both widely researched and very interesting. It should make for a great paper. I'll keep you posted!

Overall my classes have gotten off to a good start and I can't wait to see how this semester turns out. I plan on going back home to DFW next weekend. I'm hoping that Samantha can come get me Thursday night/early Friday morning, but I haven't heard the plan from her yet. I am excited to see my family and friends. I'm also looking forward to spending some time with Michael since he's leaving for basic in about a month. I am so thankful that I don't have class on Fridays and not until 3:30 on Mondays, so I have a more flexible weekend to work with! Yay for perfect scheduling :)

That reminds me...I don't believe I've posted my current class schedule on here. Here we go...
ADV318J: Intro to Advertising and Integrated Brand Promotion
GOV310L: American Government
RHE309S: Critical/Persuasive Writing
MKT320F: Intro to Marketing
PS304: Physical Science II

That is all for my update today. I hope everyone had a great weekend and has a great week ahead of them!
XOXO~Heather

Curse You, Allergies!

2010-01-25T14:38:00.000-06:00

In case you weren't aware, Austin has been having severe issues with its Cedar count lately in the air. As a result, I have been compeltely miserable lately. I wake up every morning unable to breathe and literally in tears because from about 4am until I get up I can't get back to sleep. I've gone to the closest gas stations and pharmacies within walking distance, but they are all out of allergy medicine. I have resorted to sneezing, coughing, and an intense amount of congestion/pressure. Please cross your fingers that I kick these dumb seasonal allergies ASAP. Go away, Cedar. Nobody likes you.

Heather

2010-01-23T22:59:00.000-06:00

I am so sorry, my dear blog community! I realize that it has been well over a month (SHAME ON ME!) since I have updated and with this appology, I will now give you what you really want: an update on my life.

Winter Break: It was a busy and beautiful one! I worked at Staples all break, so sometimes my free time was limited, but I did get a chance to earn some money to keep me funded for the break and give me a little extra to make a few purchases and have some left over for this semester. Christmas was absolutely beautiful. I love my family very much and it was magical getting to spend some time with them. It was bittersweet, however, once we realized it would probably be our last one as just the 7 of us. We are a growing family, and will continue to grow and move in different directions. I am excited to see what the future has in store, but I am also a little nostalgic for my childhood :)

Back to School: Now that I am back in Austin, I'm ready for a new semester. Meena is back and order has been restored to our condo! Life is back to normal and I couldn't be happier. This semester I'm taking 15 hours and my courseload is full of readings. The work will not be difficult, but I will be working against myself and my own laziness in order to raise my GPA even more. I'm taking: Marketing, Writing, Advertising, Physical Science, and US Government.

I vow to being posting updates more often throughout the semester and like I said-I appologize for slacking :)

Heather

One Day.

2009-12-10T12:15:00.000-06:00

I've had a pretty rough past couple of days. I can't even begin to explain what's been going on, other than I'm just in a funk. I'm ready to be back with my family and friends, and out of this place. I still haven't talked to the Beast in over 3 weeks, and although I'm not at all upset about it (it's my choice to avoid communication), I'm not really a fan of having to plan out my study sessions, showers, meal times, and laundry times around her-especially since she's decided to have a friend spend the whole week here. This friend eats all of our food, drinks all of my coffee, and is a complete and utter distraction to my personal study time-HOW RUDE. I've been camping out in our library studying, or staying over at Jordan's place a lot to maintain whatever ounce of sanity I have left this semester. I'm doing well acadmeically-better than I ever have been-but some things just aren't lining up socially. I just want to have a great break at home. I miss everything about HEB, and am extremely homesick. I only have one more day left here, but somehow that one day seems to be taking its time in getting here.

Heather

Hell Week, Dead Days, Finals

2009-12-08T13:05:00.000-06:00

Well ladies and gentlemen, the time has finally come. It is now officially the end of the semester! I am currently on my last push to the winter break, and a fantastic one at that. For the next couple of days I will basically be hibernating in the library here on campus and preparing for my 2 finals: Wednesday's Perspectives of Deafness, and Friday's Advertising. Then on Friday I will embark on the great journey North35. I am so excited that I can hardly contain myself. It will be nice to finally be back in the warm, cozy house that my parents provide and, yes, I will be a baby and admit that I miss my mommy and daddy and sisters and brother very much :)

Heather

Thanksgiving Highs and Midterm/Final Lows

2009-11-30T15:14:00.000-06:00

I had an absolutely fantastic time back in DFW for Christmas Break. It's hard to come back to Austin from there. I came in town this afternoon and have been diligently working on classwork ever since. It's just so hard when all Austin holds for me right now is a rather large batch of tests, a horrible roommate (to say the very very least), and the lack of bestfriends/boyfriends/family members. Thank God I only have less than 2 weeks left to brave this tragic scene...Don't get me wrong, I still am 100% in love with UT and ATX, it's just that this time of year is for family, and it's hard to come off the high of Thanksgiving break to a cold dark condo where I feel trapped because of the Beast living downstairs...but that's all too depressing of a story for this blog of course.

This week is packed with wrap ups of all my classes. I only have 2 finals next week, so that means that all of my other 3 classes have spent these last few days (class officially ends Friday for the Fall2009 semester) giving out midterms and presentations. Here is a special glimpse into the week ahead for me:
Monday-Rhetoric Presentation over the relevance of religion, impromptu speech over change in communication class, and physical science homework/labs due
Tuesday-Advertising Exam #3
Wednesday-Physical Science Final
Thursday-Perspectives of Deafness internet logs (quatity-18) due
Friday-Communication Final Exam
Then it's off to a holiday party on Saturday. Next week I have a final for my deafness class on Wednesday, then a final for Advertising on Friday, then it's back to DFW for the holiday season! Pray, cross your fingers, wish on stars, whatever it is that you do, for me to make it through these next weeks with the motivation i need for my classes, the comfort i need for my feelings, and the self-restraint i need for my God awful "roommate."

Heather

Thanksgiving Break/Hex Rally

2009-11-23T23:08:00.000-06:00

It seems that the closer I get to Thanksgiving break, the less motivation I have for my schoolwork. It's so difficult to sit down and get things done. It's especially hard with the difficult living situation I have that makes things unbearable. I just have to make it a few more weeks...

Ashley is coming in town tomorrow night (yikes! I'd better pack and clean...). We're going to go out to eat with some of my girlfriends down here and have a nice dinner/drinks. Then we're getting up early Wednesday morning and picking up my friend Caitlin, and our friend Shauna. I'm going to drive Ash's car with Caitlin, and Ash will be riding with Shauna and her very adorable cat, Shep, following us up 35. I'll be staying until Monday, the 30th at 8am when I will be making the trip back down here for the last week of classes, and then 2 finals to polish off the end of the semester.

I must say that academically this semester has been nothing short of incredible and fantastic. I could not have asked for a better schedule, better professors, better classes, or better subjects to study. However, as mentioned previously, I can't wait to get this semester over and move on to next year. I want my roommate back. It's a really long story that will remain left unsaid on blogs, because I don't really care to spread my gossip/issues on the world wide web. I'd rather explain in person as well. But basically I'm just ready for the exchange girl to get the heck out of my place, and ready for Meena to come back to me and Kyla so that I can once more be happy at home :) Just a few weeks left!!

Tonight was the HexRally for the Texas A&M game on Thanksgiving Day. If you're not aware of this longstanding tradition, let me explain. About 60ish years ago the Longhorns were suffering from a "winning drought" as they call it and the A&M game was approaching. So several members from the football team decided to meet with a town psychic/curator who had told them they needed to light red candles that resembled Texas A&M while playing the Texas Fight Song three times. They did this, and for the next week there were red candles being lit everywhere in Austin. That Thanksgiving the Longhorns pulled a win in College Station 23-0. So every year everyone gets together at the base of the Tower and has a huge pep rally and lights red candles to support this tradition. Tonight we heard from Mack Brown and Colt McCoy also. It was fun and now I'm pumped for the game!

Well I think that just about sums up what's going on these next couple of days. If I don't update before then, I hope everyone has a great week with their families and safe travels. I am thankful for each and every one of you!

Heather

DFW Weekend

2009-11-09T21:33:00.000-06:00

So let's see what's going on in the wonderful world of Heather....

I've officially registered for classes next semester-whatever that means. I didn't get the course I want (aka Spanish) so I might have to re-evaluate what I'm taking as far as online courses and such over the summer. I must say that I was slightly frustrated with my advisor, but to be fair he's a "communications undeclared and prospective student" advisor, so I doubt he knows much about PR and what he's talking about. Regardless, I do have classes for next semester, and I am officially ready to be done with Fall 2009.

I'm heading back to HEB this weekend and I couldn't be more excited! I haven't been back in a month and I miss everyone. I'm going to be hanging out with lots of friends, and yes I suppose the boyfriend-if he's lucky, and my family whom I miss so much! Thursday night my parents are picking me up and I believe that'll put me back in HEB Friday morning/afternoon just in time for some festitivies with my friends :)

Well, other than winding down the semester within the next couple of weeks, nothing much has been going on. Just looking forward to the holiday season, and having a relaxing weekend!

Heather

A Spook-Tacular Halloween

2009-11-02T15:46:00.000-06:00

I hope that everyone had a fantastic Halloween! Hopefully your stomachs and livers are fairing well after the weekend filled with candy and drinking. I know mine don't really appreciate my celebrations ;) But in all seriousness, I did have a pretty good weekend. Although I was disappointed that our fourth Fantana (yellow) wasn't able to make it out Saturday night. I think she was sick oddly enough? We were all pretty bummed about it to say the least, but we are never-the-less happy that she made a full recovery in less than 24 hours. I had people over at my place for a few hours before we ventured downtown to 6th street in pure-Austinite fashion to look at the weird costumes that our beautiful and strange city has to offer! I was not let down at all. Although apparently this year's most popular costume, oddly enough, was Waldo. Weird. Anyways, I hope that everyone had a great Halloween, and now I cannot wait for the Holiday Season that is officially here-my favorite time of the year!

Heather

Productivity!!

2009-10-29T12:54:00.000-05:00

Today has been such a productive day for me!! I have a massive to-do list on the desk next to my laptop as I type, and it must have at least 30+ things on it that require my immediate attention before Saturday morning. So far I have crossed out about half of it. Can I get a round of applause??

Registration for Spring2010 classes are coming up. I got an email today that the College of Engineering has place a registration bar on my EID for advising. I looked into it, and did a little bit of researching on both the Engineering and Communications website, and discovered an easy fix to this problem. I just have to meet with a Communications advisor and have him/her sign a little sheet I printed off of the Engineering website, and turn it in. So I made a few phone calls and have a meeting tomorrow at 3:30 and will be on my way to a smooth registration process on Tuesday! Hooray :)

I finally got around to perusing Dell's website and after some difficult sifting and searching, I finally found the page that had the information for my free Windows7 Upgrade that I get since I purchased a Dell laptop after June 2009. It is officially in route to my condo and will get here soon! I'm so excited about that.

Now off to finishing my laundry, completing some homework, a class at 3:30, and some other various around-the-house kind of tasks. Here's to completing my To-Do list as soon as possible and being able to relax for Halloween weekend!

Heather

This 'N That

2009-10-28T15:25:00.000-05:00

Oh no! It appears that I have not update this blog enough recently! I appologize to all of my avid readers for neglecting the task of announcing my recent happenings. Please forgive me! I have been swamped with busy weekends, midterms, projects, and the like so I have no ventured to blogspot lately. What a same on my part!

Classes are still going well. I am making mostly B's at this point..hoping to bring some of those up to A's by the time finals roll around in a month or so. I think it's possible. It's so nice and easy being in classes where I thrive and am interested in the topics. It's also nice to have material that overlaps within my courses-that makes for an easier educational process for sure. I'd have to say that Professional Business Communication is my personal favorite semester. It's basically speech for business/PR/communication majors. My instructure is a hip grad student who encourages open communication within the class so it feels like a huge collaborative study group all of the time. Not to mention, this relaxed atmosphere makes speech-giving a success and comfortable process. I really do enjoy the people in there as well. I have met probably 10 new friends alone :) I love how social my peers are in this major. Yet again I will reiterate that I have finally found my niche at UT!!

I guess it might be worth mentioning that my dating life has somewhat of a spark to it nowadays. I have been seeing someone for about a month now, and as of last week we have decided to become exclusive and start a relationship. I'm trying to be very casual and light with it since we've just started getting to know each other, so I'll refrain from personal details, but his name is Michael and he lives in the DFW area (we went to high school together although we didn't know each other back then-thanks to the 650+ person graduating class). I'm happy with him, so we'll see where it goes.

Halloween is around the corner! I am going as the fantana girls (the girls who sell the Fanta softdrinks) with 3 of my good friends-Melissa, Jordan, and Ashley (more commonly referred to as "Shambles"). We're going dressed head-to-toe in our color. I'm purple, Melissa is red, Jordan is orange, and Shambles is yellow. Tonight we're finalizing our wardrobes with a quick trip to the mall for accessories and shoes, although I already have mine-does that surprise you? :)

I can't wait for the weekend, especially after the past few days that I've had. I have had a midterm, homework packets, and a 6 page paper due this week, and finally as of today I am finished. Now I just have to get through to 7pm when classes are over for the day. Did somebody say glass of wine?? Sorry for the massive update, I had so much to say! I think the remedy for this in the future will be more entires of course, and I promise I will attempt to stay on top of things once again!

Heather

ps. in case you weren't aware, I do have another blog that I casually update. I spill my deepest opinions and frustrations about various current events and topics (picture a VERY unrefined version of Perez Hilton-my blogging idol). Check it out if you want! http://heathers-daily-dish.blogspot.com/ You might find it interesting, provocative, or just fun to read. Regardless, I hope to get some feedback from it! Afterall, that's what it's for-to stir your minds and generate opinions :)

October-Fest

2009-10-07T15:25:00.000-05:00

Well I officially made it through the hectic week of exams and essays last week. It was hard to do, and very stressful, but I believe that now that I have the entire month of October open, it was worth it. I haven't gotten many of my grades back other than making an A on my communications exam and a B on my rhetoric essay first draft. Hmmm we'll see how the rest of the courses go. I will say that I still love themmmm :)

The month of October might not be busy academic-wise, but boy will it be packed as far as my social calendar! This weekend I have about 6 guys coming in town from DFW to hang out and go down 6th street. Then next weekend is OU weekend and Bonnie's birthday, so I'm definitely going home for that. Then the next weekend is parents/family weekend here at UT so my parents, Samantha, and Jeremy will be coming in town to visit the campus and me. I'll also probably have 2 of my marine friends come in and stay with me for a visit or two. Then the next weekend is Halloween so of course it'll be packed as well. So much to do! But I'm so excited.

Life is pretty awesome right now. I finally feel like I have a grasp on everything in my life. I no longer feel stressed, burdened, or upset about any of my classes or activities. School no longer feels like an endless chore for the next 4 years. Changing my major was the best decision I've made in my life so far. Of course there are a few other little things happening here and there that have helped tie everything into my great and fabulous life right now, but those of course are for a whole other entry at a whole other time. For now, though, this is the end of my update.

Heather :)

Birthday Bash Blast!

2009-09-28T12:17:00.000-05:00

How do I even begin to describe the amount of love and appreciation I have for my family and friends?! I thought last year was the best birthday I've ever had, but apparently I had no idea how amazing this one was going to be!

Monday (9/21) I went out to dinner with my closest friends who are under 21 to celebrate with them since they couldn't go down 6th Street with me. I had a blast. I enjoyed spending time with them and we even went back to my place afterwards for a bit of champagne :]

Tuesday (9/22) was the big day. I didn't feel much older until I was at dinner enjoying my first legal beer on 6th Street. We went to a pub then bar hopping and I must say that I held myself very well, and ended the night still standing. Anyone else proud of me? haha

Friday (9/25) night I started off my birthday weekend right with a visit to Midnight Rodeo. It's a saloon/dancehall that we have down here. I went once when I was 18 and vowed to never go back again until I could drink, seeing as though I'm not a good dancer and there's not much else you can do there but drink and dance. There was a semi-decent band playing live (Texas Renegade) and I enjoyed a dance, or two, with a mixture of my friends that were under 21 and those who were over. Upon returning home, I went over to my friend's place for an after-party type thing and ended up playing RockBand until the early hours of Saturday morning.

Saturday (9/26) was the day I had been looking forward to the most, possibly more than my birthday itself. Ashley picked me up from my condo in the morning and we headed to Georgetown where my parents, Samantha, Ryan, Christi, and my grandparents were all ready to start the celebration. We opened presents, visited, ate lunch, and blew out the candles on an adorable cake, before heading to the hotel back in Austin. The hotel, located about 3 miles away from downtown, was the perfect place for us to rest up and get ready for our big night. And boy was it big! We headed to dinner at Iron Cactus, my personal favorite restaurant in all of Austin, as I enjoyed my first legal margarita. It was delicious. However, there was a sort of weird Pecan Festival kind of thing oging on and the music was less than normal. Weird is the only word that is merrited enough to even come close to what was going on downtown. Haha. From there we went to Pete's Dueling Piano Bar where all of us enjoyed the sights and sounds of pianos, drinks, and the occasional shot :) Samantha even told the bartender it was our birthday, so we were brought up on stage to sit on the Pianos and get serenaded with "You've Lost That Loving Feeling." Oh, Top Gun ♥ Then we headed back to the hotel and called it a beautiful night.

Sunday (9/27) we went to the Co-Op to do some souvenir shopping and browsing for UT gear. Afterwards I went and showed Christi and Ryan my condo since they had never seen it before, then headed out to Hut's Hamburgers for a delicious lunch. After all of that, it was finally back to my condo for a nice nap and essay writing.

So here I sit, about to head into my Rhetoric Class, basking in the glow of love. I'm so glad that I have the family and friends that I do that provide an ample support system for all that I do. No matter what happens in my life, I know that I will always have them. I am so grateful to have such a strong relationship with my entire family (both immediate and extended) that not many people can experience. I consider myself more than lucky, and more than thankful.

Heather

UPDATEUPDATEUPDATE♥

2009-09-24T12:47:00.000-05:00

So much has happened since my last update! I feel like I have grossly neglected my duties as an avid blogger and am letting down my avid followers (all 3 of you...). So here we go.

As of Tuesday I am now officially 21 years old! I am legal to drink. I am so excited. I know that everyone kids around about me drinking a lot and partying, but the truth is that I really don't. I'm not the most excited about getting to drink legally, as much as I am excited to be able to get into all places now, be able to grab drinks with people, and have a margarita at dinner. It's a social-bug thing I guess you could say.

School and classes are still going great! I haven't had any tests or anything yet, so we'll see what happens after midterms. Haha. Next week I have a paper and 3 exams. Wish me luck! I will probably be pulling endless all nighters and praying that I will come out of next week alive.

Not much else is going on other than being 21 and studying. This weekend my parents, my brother, my sisters, and one of my cousins are all coming in town to celebrate down sixth street and I couldn't be more excited! We're going to the Iron Cactus then Pete's Piano bar. I can't wait to hang out with all of them-I haven't seen some of them in MONTHS.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

My Twin Sister Is Engaged!

2009-09-12T12:02:00.000-05:00

You read it right! Last night around 9:30pm, Phillip Long proposed to my twin sister, Ashley Galloway (and she said yes)! I couldn't be happier for the two of them. The kind of eternal love they share between each other is such a blessing to them, and everyone around them that gets to experience this light they emit. I am so excited.

Keeping this secret from my sister for a couple of months now, I also feel relieved. This past week, especially, has been the worst! Every time she would talk about how excited she was to be with him this weekend to celebrate their 5 year anniversary, I wanted to yell "YOU HAVE NO IDEA" at her, but I refrained and let me tell you, it was tough. My twin sister means more to me than anyone on their planet, and I just wanted her to experience the joy that I had in my heart for their pending engagement, but I had to hold it all inside, and it really was eating away at me :) Phillip sure did a great job blowing her away with flowers, dinner, and the surprise proposal. I know it was everything she wanted (and more).

So this post is dedicated to the newly-engaged and very-in-love couple, Ashley and Phillip. I can't believe it's finally official, and I can't wait to share in your experiences as you move forward, together, in your beautiful lives.

Heather

(ps. does that sound like part of a maid-of-honor speech to you, too? haha)

Relief is Sweet.

2009-09-09T00:36:00.000-05:00

I can't even begin to describe the relief I have in my heart. For the first time in 2 and a half years, I finally feel like I have my classes, and my life, under control. I go to bed feeling more accomplished and more intelligent than the night before. Every day I wake up excited to go to my classes, and at the end of the day I can't believe how fast the day went by! This has been the scariest, and most challenging, decision I have ever made in my life. I am so thankful and grateful for my family, my friends,and (especially) my God for getting me through these past 12 months alive. It has paid off more than ever. It just goes to show that with a definitive plan, a few-no, maybe A LOT-of prayers, and a heartful of faith can do in just one short year.

Heather

2 Weeks!

2009-09-08T17:38:00.000-05:00

Countdown Update: 2 Weeks until the big 2-1 :)

Hook 'Em Horns \m/

2009-09-06T16:46:00.003-05:00

What a game! I am so proud of my Longhorns for pulling off another victory to start off the 2009 football season right! I am so glad football season is here. I have season tickets right under the Godzilla-Tron (South Endzone) and they're awesome seats :) I was at the game last night and had a blast cheering on my boys. Do we have (knock on wood) another possible title season? Here's hoping...TEXAS FIGHT!

2009-09-03T12:08:00.002-05:00

So I still absolutely love my classes still! I sometimes miss the math homework, though. There is something to be said about being able to prepare for my classes while talking and watching TV (something I can do with math) rather than locking yourself up in a room and reading chapters and chapters at a time. In other words, the prep-homework for math/engineering is more relaxed, but my classes for PR are wayyy more interesting and engaging. Therefore, the reading doesn't really suck that much :) I can honestly say that I believe that this is the best decision I have ever made for myself. I can't wait to continue this year and the next!

Heather

Warning: Girl Moment

2009-08-31T22:22:00.002-05:00

Okay, I am going to allow myself to be blunt and vulnerable for this one post...

Being away in college, I have found myself belonging to two different cultures in Texas. One is the familiarity, warmth, and protection of being at home in DFW. There, my friends are waiting and my family is holding their arms open wide, welcoming me home. The other is the fast-paced, carefree, and spirited noise of ATX and UT. Where the air is filled with the hustle and bustle of the city and the smell of adventure and opportunity permeates the air.

When I am at home, I am surrounded by couples. Everywhere people are talking about settling down, starting families, and talking in twos. Heck, my own best friend is even married. Everyone is committed, and sometimes it's all too easy to get swept up in that "I need a boyfriend" state of mind. I feel excluded from couple-activities with my friends, and although I am the youngest, I still feel a little bit of an outsider in my family for not being able to contribute to the "my boyfriend does this" and "my boyfriend does that"conversations. It's hard to want to stay single when everywhere I turn there are people coming-two by two.

Then I come back to Austin-beautiful Austin-and begin the search for the next Mr. Right. I am catalyzed by one of my roommates having a live-in boyfriend, and the other looking for love around every corner. I feel an immediate gravitational pull to any guy that will give me attention. That's where the problem lies. I find a good, dependable man who "looks great on paper" as I like to say, and jump head first into something that I thought I wanted. It never fails, though. Inevitably I rethink the situation. I toy with the balance between the idea of no one being perfect (after all, I'm no where near the definition of that word) and the belief that I really can have it all. Why can't I find someone who has it all?

And so I sit here, another moment wiser. I'm too young to settle for anything. I don't want to spend my college, or youthful, years declining invitations to dance at clubs, drinks at bars, and flirtations at parties or in class. I'm not done spending all of my time on me. So take that, Bedford. I appreciate couples and of course think that love is a beautiful thing, but I'm not sure I'm ready for all the commitment that comes with it. And maybe that's the point? Maybe I'm not finding the "someone who has it all" because I wouldn't know him if he tripped me.

Enough of the emotional girly stuff. Here's to the beauty of love, and the craziness of singledom :)
Heather

Yayyyy

2009-08-29T15:42:00.002-05:00

My classes are great! I can't believe what a difference changing majors can make. I am actually excited and interested in the courses I'm taking right now. And get this-I'm about to ready and study on a Saturday! I never thought I'd see the day when that would happen :-P

Went to the Cove last night to hang out with a bunch of my really good friends and just had a blast. I missed all of them over the summer. It was also nice to let loose a little bit before I got down to business today.

Fall 2009 Courses:
RHE309K: Topics In Writing-Religious Dessent
CMS306M: Business Communication (Speech)
CSD308K: Perspectives of Deafness
ADV318J: Introduction to Advertising
PS303: Physical Science I

Heather

Back to School!

2009-08-25T23:25:00.002-05:00

Alright, so everything is finally ready and finally in order, which is good considering the first day of class is tomorrow. I have been hustling and bustling around all day, with the exception of Arthur's birthday lunch/dinner, getting things ready. My laundry is complete, my room is clean, and my bag is ready to go. I feel like I'm going into freshman year all over again. I haven't been this excited to go to my classes in years. I'll let everyone know tomorrow what my Wednesday classes were like.

12:30-2pm Topics in Writing (RHE 309K)
2-3pm Professional Communication Skills (CMS 306M)
4-6pm Intro to Physical Science I (PS 303)
6-7pm Intro to Advertising/Integrated Brand Communication (ADV 318J)

Heather

Busy Bee!

2009-08-24T16:55:00.002-05:00

Today I have been so productive, it's not even funny! I got up and went to the Co-Op Bookstore with Kyla to get a couple of my last minute books I wasn't able to buy on Chegg.com. Turns out I could purchase one, and the other I have to order on the Co-Op website because it has yet to be in-stock and that's the only way I can reserve my copy. I'm just hoping all of the other students in my class are in the same boat with me, and thank goodness it's a Lab Manual since Labs don't start until next week anyways I'm assuming.

After that eventful trip, I came home and have been marking things off of my to-do list left and right. I'm cleaning, doing laundry, and going through my old clothes and shoes in order to become more organized for the school year. Hopefully a clear room will lead to a clear mind! :)

Well, off to do more productive things!!

Heather

Let The Fun Begin!!

2009-08-22T13:19:00.002-05:00

I got back in town (Austin) on Sunday and have been reminded almost every single day since why I love this city so much. It's so nice to be in my own bed, with my friends :) The only downside to this semester is that one of my roommates, Meena, will be leaving to go abroad for the semester. I'm going to miss her so much! We do, however, have another girl, Lauren, who will be living with us until Meena gets back. She's an exchange/international student from New Zealand and she's pretty cool too :)

The river was FANTASTIC. I went with a group of about 10 people to toob the Guadalupe on Thursday and came back with tons of fun stories, and a pretty sweet tan. Wahoooo.

All week I've been catching up with my friends, and it all has led to tonight-Meena's Birthday/Going Away Party. I'm so excited to see everyone in their international garb and can't wait to get the festivities underway! Here's to a great night, and a great weekend to start off the school year right!!

Heather

Lift Off!

2009-08-14T01:19:00.001-05:00

Well, all of my bags are packed and ready to go! I'll be getting up at 6:30am to pack up Samantha's truck and head out. I'm so excited :)

Heather

3 Days Left!

2009-08-11T21:20:00.002-05:00

I'm finally down to the single digits of the back-to-austin countdown. Yesterday and today I spent all day shopping and running errands, but the rest of the week is way more packed than that!

Wednesday: Laundry, Cleaning, and buying a new laptop.
Thursday: Hair Appointment, Pick Up/Deposit Paycheck, Packing, and the last Softball Game, Sisters Coffee

Then Friday we're leaving at 8am to head back to Austin. I'll be staying the night with my grandparents and sister in Georgetown, then we'll be meeting my family in College Station (booo Aggies :P) to help Ashley move in to her new apartment, then it's back to Austin for good. I'm so excited!!

Heather

Winding Down

2009-08-05T13:30:00.002-05:00

Well, the summer is finally starting to wind down. Today will be my last day of work at Staples. This time I don't plan on coming back to work for them since I will permanently stay in Austin until I make plans after graduation. It's a little bittersweet. I will definitely miss the crew over there since I've been at Staples for over a year now, but it's time to get ready to go back to Austin! I keep counting down every day until I get to be back. I'm so ready to be back in my city with my friends. I'm excited to be taking the classes that I want to take and getting the ball rolling on my new career. There are so many exciting things that are going to happen this year, and I can't wait to sit here a year from now and look back at the year I worked my butt off, but the year I accomplished the most. Everything is almost in line and I'm almost 100% ready. All I have left is to get my loans in order. I won't have a car this semester like originally planned (long story) but I'll be okay.

Here's to the last 2 weeks of summer 2009 and moving to Austin on the 14th! :)
Heather

GOD IS GREATTTT

2009-06-30T23:22:00.002-05:00

Within the past 2 weeks I have experienced a relief beyond any imaginable feeling. Almost all of the weight that has been on my shoulders these past 3 months has officially been lifted. GOD IS GREAT!!! Now I am offically ready to start the new semester with a clean slate and an eager heart. You know that feeling you get when everything lines up and you just know in your heart that everything is where it needs to be and you are doing what you need to be doing? That's where I am. I can't describe this feeling. I feel like I am on top of the world. Life is so great. God is so great.

Heather

I Don't Think We're In Kansas Anymore...

2009-06-11T00:01:00.002-05:00

I know it's been too long since my last update, so here it goes. My internship is GREAT. My job at Staples couldn't be better. My classes are a BREEZE. And I am having such a great time at home with my family and friends. I really needed this relaxing break after all the struggles from this past academic year.

Tonight, I was at work (Staples) when my manager told me about a Tornado Warning that had been issued for Tarrant County (our county). I wasn't too concerned as it was kind of cloudy outside, but not too dark. I thought it was perhaps for southern Tarrant or something. Well, within the span of about 20 minutes, the sky turned an ominous dark greenish gray and I immediately realized that the storm was heading our way. I started getting texts from Ash telling me what was going on since all we had was a lagging computer behind the customer service desk, and no TV to update (we're getting a Noah Weather Radio after tonight...). The clouds continued to roll in and I started seeing a specific spot where clouds were swirling and lightning was concentrated. Regardless if it was the tornado that later formed 20 minutes north of us or not, I was extremely concerned. About 5 minutes later the Tornado sirens started going off, and man were they loud!! I was alarmed and scared to say the very least. All of our customers were leaving, but when the sirens started going off, there was a mass exodus from the parking lot and one of our customers that had left-a mother and her daughter-had returned to stay inside until the storm had passed. As soon as they got 2 feet away from the doors, a huge surge of swirling wind started circling around our entire building as the sirens continued to blare. By this point I was downright terrified. Ashley had reassured me that the rotation had passed, but she couldn't see the eerie sight that I was looking at. Clouds were swirling. Winds were howling in high pitches. The sky was green. It sounded like a train engine outside. All signs pointed towards something nasty outside. My manager and a couple of employees (guys of course) were standing near the front entrance watching the storm when I went through the corridor to see what they were thinking about taking cover and how safe we were. After standing there for 10 minutes, the winds started blowing harder than ever and a shrieking howl was surrounding us in the corridor. My manager and I looked over our shoulders just in time to see one of the second set of doors leading to the store blow off its hinges and land inside the store, leaving trash and dirt scraps everywhere inside. It was absolutely terrifying. I don't think I have ever been more scared of a storm before in my life. This was the only time when I actually thought a tornado was going to hit. Needless to say, it passed and we were all okay. But I will never forget that aching feeling inside, and the shock and fear that came when the door blew off its hinges and the whole storm seemed to mimic all of those scenes in Twister.

Heather

Internship && Such

2009-05-22T00:00:00.002-05:00

Well it's been a very hectic, stressful, and emotional week here in DFW. Here's what has happened...

I got back in town Sunday afternoon to help my best friend, Amand Regalado (the one that got married last year) move into her new home with her husband, Tony. It was a lot of fun to help her move in and get situated. It's a really cute house and I can't wait to make some memories :)

My internship is a major success! I couldn't be happier. The opportunity that has been placed in front of me is one that you can only encounter once in a lifetime. I am now 1,000% sure that this is exactly what I want to do. Event planning is my forte, as well as my dream job. I've only been on the job for 4 days now, but every single person that I have dealt with has told me what a great job I will do in the future-and they're not just saying that! This weekend I am helping the Hilton's wedding planner, Amber, with 3 (yes 3!) weddings set for Saturday night. They will all be on the same date, but set about an hour apart. It will be a blast, and Amber says that if I wanted to find out if Weddings are what I want to do, then this will be the perfect opportunity! If I still like them after this hectic event, then I should be good to go!

Well, that's about all I have so far. I start work at Staples on Monday so that should be fun. I'm also heading to a river on Sunday to float it with some of my closest friends. Next Wednesday I start my 2 online courses, and I'll be up and running through these next few months. Wish me luck!

Heather

AT LAST!!

2009-05-20T11:30:00.002-05:00

After 4 finals, and the toughest semester of my entire life, I am finished! I can't believe that I survived. Throughout these past few months, I have really realized the value of family and friends who not only support me, but encourage me to do whatever it is that I feel is right for myself and my life. Words can't explain my gratitude.

I'm back in HEB now, and I'm looking forward to a packed summer. I am taking 2 online courses at the local community college (American History and Art Appreciation) to get a head start on my new degree plan. I'm also 2 days into my internship at the Austin Ranch/DFW Hilton Hotel. I couldn't be more excited for this incredible opportunity! I follow around the head event coordinator, and the wedding planner all around and learn from them while boosting up my resume for my College of Communications application that I submit in September of this year. This is the best experience for me right now. Also, I will be working part time back at Staples in the Copy Center. It's not the most glamorous job out there, but I've been with them for a year now, and I enjoy the people I work with, as well as the seniority to declare my own hours-which comes in handy with the internship. All of this plus hanging out with my family, friends, and several trips down to Austin, Houston, and Dallas, I think it's safe to say that I am looking at an extremely busy few months. But I love it!

Heather

Are We There Yet?

2009-05-14T12:45:00.002-05:00

Finals are finally upon me, and I must admit that I have mixed emotions. This has been the toughest, and most stressful semester of my college career thus far. I couldn't be more excited to finish it. However, I am a little apprehensive because even though I do have plans for the future, they are not final until the end of this semester when the grades are all caclulated and I receieve my GPA. I hope I can leave engineering with a salvagable GPA. Wish me luck! I have 2 back to back finals tomorrow (Mechanics of Solids and World Literature) then one last one on Saturday night (Linear Algebra).

We couldn't find a subleaser for my room this summer. I am completely and totally bummed about that. It seems that even grades and finals aren't stressful enough, but now I have to worry about covering rent for a place that I'm not even living in. On the bright side, that means I have less things to pack for the summer (my desk, bedding, etc.). There's always a silver lining, right?

Well, I'd better get to hitting the books. I'm feeling a possible all-nighter, if not staying up until at least 3am. Wish me luck! And keep those prayers coming that I may, miraculously, pull off this Mechanics of Solids exam.

Heather

Wrapping Things Up

2009-05-04T11:54:00.003-05:00

Well, the month of May has suddenly appeared. When did April even happen?! I feel like I've just been going and going since Spring Break that I haven't really had a chance to realize how fast time is flying by. In exactly 2 weeks I will be living at my parents' house and getting ready to go to my first day at my internship and officially finished with my second year in college. It's amazing how fast those two weeks will pass.

Well, our elevator broke again last night. Yayyyy climbing 6 flights of stairs...not. At least I've been going to the gym every day so I'm in somewhat better shape to tackle them. This is actually the first time it's broken all semester. I would say that 4 months is pretty impressive.

I signed up for classes for Fall2009. I'm not 100% happy with it yet, but I'll have the second half of June and the first half of July to add/drop as well as the general add/drop period 2 weeks before classes start. I'm thinking that between those two periods, I'll be able to get my perfect schedule. Right now I'm about 90% there. Here are the classes I'm taking:
ADV318J:Advertising/Integrated Brand Communication
RHE 309K:Topics in Writing
PS 303:Intro to Physical Science I: Mechanics&Heat*
CMS 306M:Professional Communication Skills*
CSD 308K:Perspectives on Deafness

*These classes will be dropped if I can add SPN506:Intro to Spanish I, which counts as a 5 hour course

I'm pretty pleased with my classes, and I can't wait to get into them, and out of engineering. It's been so difficult to finish this semester. I have to make it out alive!

Heather

PS. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!! :) LOVE YOUUUUU

2009-04-20T11:53:00.002-05:00

I'm finished with exams/midterms until Finals week in t-minus 3 weeks and counting. I have a feeling this will be my most stressful final exam week that I have experienced thus far. I am attempting to get out of my last semester with a gpa that is decent enough for me to raise next semester. Cross your fingers!

Our dishwasher has been broken since the Thursday before Easter (04/09). For those of you who are aware, we haven't had much luck with this dishwasher since we've moved in. That being said, Meena's parents, my landlords, have decided to replace it this Wednesday! I couldn't be more excited for a working dishwasher. How did people survive without one before?!

The condo-sublease thing is on the move. I put the ad for a sublease in Craigslist and Uloop and have printed several flyers also. I've gotten about 3 offers, but 2 of them were from overseas and third parties for 25 year olds which makes me rather uncomfortable, and the other one had a dog, which our landlord has said no animals. At least I've had a few offers so I know that it's being seen. Hopefully I can get something by the end of this week. This is one of the biggest stresses of my semester, and I'd be more calm if I could just find one person to sublease.

Registration is next week for my classes for Fall2009. I'll post my courses on here when I actually get them, but I am looking at: Advertising, First Year Spanish, Introduction to Persuasive Writing, and Understanding of Deafness. I hope I am able to get a working schedule of all of those classes. They all look interesting, and they have the potential to really raise my gpa. I couldn't be more excited!

Heather

The Beginning of the End

2009-04-15T16:47:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the help of my dad, I was able to get an internship for this summer. I will be shaddowing one of the head event coordinators at the Austin Ranch/Hilton Hotel in Grapevine, Texas. The coordinator has promised to introduce me to several key people, aid in my networking, and help me learn the ropes of PR and Event Coordination. There isn't a more perfect internship out there for me at this time. This opportunity will help in my application process to get in the College of Communications here at UT, as it will "beef up" my resume.

As of today, I am officially finished with midterms for the semester. I now have the rest of the semester to catch up and prepare for finals. I really need to finish with the best GPA possible. I have done fairly well in all of my classes, so I won't really have to catch up as much as review. I am just ready to be done with this semester and engineering.

I went to my academic advising for prospective internal transfers into Communications on Monday. He was very helpful in showing me what courses I do and do not need to take. I think it's safe to say that looking at what I need, I am leaning towards a Fall 2011 graduation as opposed to the previously planned Spring 2011. Such is the price for changing majors at the beginning of your Junior Year in college. Oh well. It'll be worth it.

Here's to the final push.
Heather

Things Are Looking Up!!

2009-04-08T00:33:00.003-05:00

Tonight I went to dinner with Tiffany Morrison (a family friend) who graduated from UT with a degree in PR from the College of Communication. She was extremely helpful in getting my head straight and focused on my future career. I am so excited! She even let me know a few organizations that I should join to beef up my resume, and they are PERFECT! With dinner, and the Prospective Internal Transfer Information Session today, I have a clear plan for the future, and I can't wait to be sitting here this time next year with a plan, a major, and a CAREER. Here's to finally finding where I belong. For this first time I almost feel like I was born for this. I am so excited.

I'm heading home this weekend for Easter Weekend and I couldn't be excited. Even though I spent time with my parents and grandparents Sunday night, I can never get enough family time. Being away from them makes me miss them and appreciate them more than I ever have. I miss my brother, I miss my sisters, I miss my nephew, I miss my parents, I miss my best friend, I miss my dog. I can't wait to be back in HEB for the weekend. It's a tease and a preview of the things to come for this summer.

Everything is going so well for me, now. I no longer feel that nag of failure. I don't hear that little voice inside of me making me feel lost. Praise God!

Heather

Mechanics of Solids & Various Other Things

2009-04-03T10:46:00.002-05:00

You can just call me the Queen of All Things Solid. I studied Mechanics of Solids last night for about 5 hours and I feel more confident for this exam than I have for any other. However, I have this aching feeling in my gut that my professor will pull some random problem from left field and embed it in our exam in such a way that I will be mentally blocked. Not cool. We'll see. The exam is today 3:30-5:30. Wish me luck!

After my exam this evening, I will most likely be heading over to my friend's house in Far West for some much deserved and needed RR. That's if I can find a ride...

I have been more and more aware of the fact that I do not have a car here. Last year it wasn't that big of an issue since no one had a car and I didn't have a kitchen, and I had less responsibilities seeing as though a dorm didn't really require much, and I was home more so I could always just go run errands there. However, this year I have been late to various things, gone almost a week without shampoo, mailed things off late, etc. because I have to depend on someone else to take me to the store, post office, etc. I don't know what I'm going to do next semester, because the roommate that I depend on most for rides will be gone, and the other will be entering her most difficult semester of engineering yet, and I plan on being extremely involved and have a part-time job on the side. Plus, there have been several times when Ash has the ability and option to just jump in the car if there should be a family emergency of some type, while I'd have to wait and ask around to see if someone can accomodate to my schedule and take me back to DFW. It makes me nervous of anything that should happen. I guess I just need to start considering saving most of my money for a car. I had planned on spending the money earned this summer for an extra cushion of financial support next academic year since I won't have to spend it on furnishing an apartment, and I had thought about getting a flatscreen TV. Although a frivilous expense, it was something I wanted to give myself so that I didn't feel like I was making my money off-limits this summer. But, I guess I just need to grow up and do things on my own. I calculate that if I work hard enough, I could possibly get $1500. That's a start, right?

On the career front: I met with a Career Counselor and explained to her my academic progress and plans. She agreed with me 100% on my goals and change of major, and even directed me to the Career Library to look at some books that might be helpful in trying to decide what my career should be. I decided that I'm going to get my PR degree, and work various internships to boost up my Resume so that I can pick whatever career I want once I graduate. I can even be in marketing and sales without having a marketing degree! I'm excited about all of the possibilities. That being said, I need your help! If you, or someone you know, has any ideas or knowledge of a summer internship openning up this summer (2009) for a completely inexperienced and wannabe PR/Marketing/Advertising/Event Management major for the DFW area, please let me know! I have great people skills, I can type almost 100 WPM, and I am willing to do just about anything-even take out the trash-for the company. It can even be non-profit or minimum wage. I'm not picky. Please let me know! :)

Heather

Heather

Progress

2009-03-30T11:34:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I know that I have been writing non-stop about my academic issues and transferring majors, but to be honest it's the only thing worth writing about. I'm pushing through my classes (reluctantly) for the next 6 weeks until I can make a definitive transfer. Today I woke up and after a couple of large cups of coffee, I made a list of important advisors, steps I should take, and various other things that need to be done ASAP so that I can stay on track. I found a list of popular electives that most PR students take, which has been an extreme help in lifting the stress of what classes to take next semester when I become an undeclared major with no authority to take courses in the College of Communication.

TO DO LIST for TRANSFERRING:
1.Make an appointment (and attend said appointment) with a Career Advisor to discuss my plans, why I'm not happy, and make sure that PR is the path I want to take.
2.Attend the College of Communication internal transfer information sessoin on April 7th since it is not only useful, but required for all students wishing to request a meeting with the internal transfer academic advisor.
3.Meet with the College of Communication Internal Transfer Advisor and discuss courses and actions to take within the next academic year.
4.Meet with College of Engineering Academic Advisor to clear up some questions about transferring out, clear an academic counseling bar since I will be taking non-engineering courses next year and don't need to meet with a degree counselor, which is required for all continuing engineering students.
5.Register for TCC Classes for Summer 2009 to start playing catch-up (story of my life from here on out)
6.Register for UT Classes for Fall2009
7. Get really excited for this new plan! :)

I have to do all of this by April 20th while staying on track with 4 midterms, 1 midterm correction, and 1 essay exam. It'll be a tough road ahead, but I know that this effort and these sleep-less nights will all pay off in the end. I was looking at some of the courses that I could be taking next semester and saw things like "History of Rock and Roll" and "Human Sexuality" for my electives and they sound not only fun, but engaging. I can't wait!!! Wish me luck throughout this process :)

On a non-academic note: my roommate, Kyla, broke her foot in two places when she stepped off a curb and twisted her ankle. Sound familiar? Good thing I still had my boot from when I broke my foot so that she can just use my boot and not have to buy her own. The doctor laughed when Kyla told her that her roommate had just broken her foot so the boot was making its round in our condo. At least I've been through it and can help her out. Thank goodness our elevator has been working the entire semester so far (knock on wood). She's lucky she doesn't have to deal with that, OR the spiral staircase entry to her room. Haha

Heather

Transferring Majors

2009-03-26T11:47:00.002-05:00

When I applied to UT, I had declared a first choice major of Architecture because I was convinced that it was what I wanted to do. As part of the application process, you are required to declare a second choice major as well. Being the naiive and ignorant high school senior that I was, I chose Architectural Engineering because, honestly, it was the only other major that included any derivative of the word "Architecture." I had doubts about getting into the school of Architecture, but I was confident that in the end I would be where I needed to be.

April of my Senior year in high school, I got a letter from UT that included my official acceptance letter (a preliminary letter sent back in November stated that I was accepted, but it wasn't the official letter with all of the information about orientation, dorms, etc.) and my accepted major. I had been accepted into the Cockrell School of Engineering as an Architectural Engineer. I was somewhat disappointed. After talking to a couple of my high school friends that were also going to be attending UT the following year, I had discovered that being accepted into the college of engineering was an extreme honor seeing as though UT's engineering program is prestigious and one of the top 5 in the country. I had decided that I would accept the offer to attend, but had refused to give up my dream of being an Architect, so I had expected to possibly transfer into the school of Architecture at some point during my freshman year.

As classes started and I was enrolled in the Intro to Architectural Engineering course, I began to discover that Architectural Engineering was more my type of major rather than Architecture in general. I felt confident about my math skills, I enjoyed learning about and dissecting the structural designs of buildings, so I decided to stick with engineering. I had trouble in some of my core classes throughout my freshman year (ie. Chemistry, Differential Equations, Engineering Physics) but I enjoyed my Architecture classes, and felt incredibly proud to tell people my major.

At the beginning of this school year (2008-2009) my confidence began to dwindle incredibly. I felt absolutely no drive, I had a difficult time understanding concepts that students around me were getting, and I started to feel incredibly stressed when simply thinking about the next couple of years ahead of me in my academic career. I found myself wishing these next few years would go by quicker so that I could get out of college, and begin to be trained in my field. I slowly started realizing the reality of my major-it might not be for me. I slowly started entertaining the idea that perhaps engineering was not what I wanted to do.

This semester has been the most difficult semester I've ever experienced. I am so unhappy with every class I am taking. I feel confident because I looked at Pick-A-Prof (an online professor ranking system) and chose some good professors, and I feel like I'm doing well and better than I ever have. That's the problem though. I thought if I were doing well in class and working hard, that I would feel like Architectural Engineering was for me. I was wrong.

After much consideration, talks with my parents, talks with Ashley, and some browsing on UT's website, I have decided that I am 90% sure that I will be changing my major. While talking to one of my roommates the other night, we were discussing her upcoming Birthday party in August, and she had simply told me that since I was so good at planning things, that she would put me in charge of organizing the whole thing. Suddenly it hit me. Why can't I do that for a living?! So I did some research and found that although UT does not offer a Restaurant Mangement & Hospitality major, there are similar majors that I can take. There are two options that I have found for myself: I can either apply to the School of Business here and major in marketing and management, or I can apply to the College of Communication and major in Public Relations. I am leaning more towards Public Relations since most of my non-engineering credits (like Physics, Math electives, etc.) will transfer in some way or another. Also, the College of Communication, although just as prestigious, is easier to get into than the 3.8 required for the School of Business (yikes!).

So from here I will make various appointments with different advisors to figure out what I should do for the next semester, but from what I have gathered this is my plan: transfer out of the College of Engineering into the College of Liberal Arts (major: Undecided/Undeclared) and will take various elective and general courses like Spanish, a Rhetoric Class, Art History, Economics, etc. I will try to boost my GPA up in order to be competitive enough to apply for the Fall 2010 semester in February of next year. I will then meet with more advisors from the College of Communication, because apparently if you are attempting to transfer in, they will clear you to register for classes that can only be taken when enrolled in that college so that I will be on top of the proposed degree plan. I will probably be taking endless summer courses and extended hours, but I feel that it is worth it. I will then probably go back to get my Masters up north in the DFW area in Restaurant Management & Hospitality. Throughout the next few years I hope to gain several different internships to figure out just what type of management I wish to be in. With this degree I can be an event coordinator, hotel manager, or even a wedding planner. I'm not sure which I want yet, but I figure just deciding on a major is enough of a step forward for me right now.

For the first time in my college career, I feel like I have some direction. I have so many skills that will help me in this major. I am vibrant, outgoing, and I love talking to people. I have the ability to make anyone excited for just about anything. I am a people person. I have always felt like with engineering I would use my people skills to get the job, but my talents would fall once I was sitting behind a desk working on structures in a cubical. I can't see myself being stuck in a stuffy office with stuffy engineers. I want to be hands on, I want to show off my creative side, I want to excel AND love what I'm doing. Who knew you could do both?!

I'll keep all of you updated on my road to a new major. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I make this huge decision that will literally turn my collegiant career UPSIDE DOWN.

Heather

A Brief Briefing

2009-03-25T00:40:00.003-05:00

Well, I suppose since a week has passed, I'm about due for an update...

School has been off to a rough and slow start this week. It seems like everyone around me is resisting classes, schoolwork, and academia after experiencing the brief relief of Spring Break. However, there is no sleep for the weary. I will say that I am very impressed with myself for creating that study schedule (refer to previous posts if you don't know what I'm talking about) a few weeks back. It has decreased my stress by about 20% and it keeps me focused and helps me get things done. I feel accomplished.

Life is getting easier here. Since the talk with my parents about a possible major-transfer and such, I have felt so relieved to know, once again, that my parents are 100% on my side and have my back. There's something so refreshing about having such a strong support system on your team. It makes me feel so bad for my friends here who don't have the luxury of such a rich love back at home. My hopes are even higher coming off of the break now, and I am ready to conquor school! This next round (the second, and last) of Midterms is coming up, but this time my exams are more spread out and I am eternally grateful for that! I will have the time and energy to bust through these tests!

As far as the whole dating situation goes, don't hold your breath! I have been interested in a few guys here and there, but I still don't have any time to pick one to date, let alone entertain the idea of a full-blown relationship! As far as I'm concerned though, I think I have time. My daddy always tells me to do things my way and in my time. Wise man, that dad of mine. Oh and my mom too :)

Heather

Where the Heart Is ♥

2009-03-16T12:54:00.003-05:00

I am not officially on Spring Break, and boy does it feel nice. I got into HEB Friday night with Ashley, and I'm leaving again for Austin tomorrow morning. It's been wonderful being at home with my family. You really get a different persprective on life when you pull away from all of the husstle and busstle of everyday life, and reconnect with your family and closest friends. I am grateful and thankful for my time at home.

Now that I have talked to my parents about my advising, I think it's appropriate to let everyone know the plan now. I am taking this semester on with full-force. At the end of the semester I will re-evaluate my plans for college, and by the end of the summer I will make an official decision. I don't know if Engineering is right for me anymore. I'm not extremely happy, and I'm spending this semester (and summer) determining what exactly is making me unhappy and whether or not it is substantial enough to debate a change of major. I'll keep you posted.

I finally got around to brining my laptop home this weekend for my dad to take a look at. I have been having some slight issues, and they have been building up into one big mess. So, yesterday I cleaned off my harddrive, moved my music, and let my dad take a look. After over 24 hours of hardwork, my dad fixed everything. I feel like I have a new computer :) I am so relieved to have this weight lifted off my shoulder. Yayyy :)

Heather

2009-03-12T20:18:00.002-05:00

So I met with my advisor on Wednesday, and for the first time I feel like I have a plan. I was not looking forward to the meeting to begin with, but with the help of some prayers, I came out alive and kicking. God is good!

I am not officially on my Spring Break until tomorrow at 2pm, but I haven't had any exams or presentations this week, so I've been basically coasting through this long, yet relaxing, week. Tonight I have literally no homework, and tomorrow I have a 1 hour discussion group, and a 1 hour lecture. I am so relieved to have a break, for once. Tomorrow Ash is coming in town from College Station to pick me up and take me back to DFW for the weekend. Then, I'll be heading back to Austin on Tuesday with a group of friends to enjoy the rest of my spring break here. I'll get some much needed homework done, and I'll be catching up on some classwork and cleaning. I'm very grateful for Spring Break.

Heather

Cue the Sickness

2009-03-09T21:21:00.002-05:00

Of course, when I least expect it, I get sick. Right in the middle of my "push week." I needed to get through this week ahead of the game so that I could do what I needed to do over Spring Break. I woke up this morning for one of my classes, and realized immediately that I belonged in bed. Thank goodness I was able to get all of my notes covered due to gracious friends and peers, but notes hardly count for the experience of attendance. And now I have to recover from losing 3 hours in the design lab to work on a new program. Awesome. Symptoms: Sinus pressure, weakness, fatigue, headache, and soreness. Ash (the nursing student) says to take Musinex and I have been, and that she hopes it's not the flu. That makes two of us. I don't have time for the flu right now. I don't have time for anything but schoolwork. That being said, even though I didn't get to my classes today, I was able to sit on the couch under a blanket and get homework done so that I might be able to make it an early night (and by early I mean getting to bed by 11pm). Hopefully I'll be able to get up tomorrow. I better be able to. I have a very important meeting with my advisor tomorrow at 1pm to talk about my feelings, grades, etc. about engineering. This will probably be a huge step in the process of deciding on whether or not I am cut out, or should be in, the engineering program here. I have been having serious doubts lately and an immense lack of confidence-both of which I am not only uncomfortable with, but not excited about. I'll let you know how it goes. But, as for now-it's time to finish my statistics homework and lab then off to bed!

Heather

Is It Spring Break Yet?

2009-03-08T00:32:00.002-06:00

Spring break is approaching, and I couldn't be more anxious for it to get here! After the round of midterms last week, I haven't had any exams/essays due in any of my classes, so I have actually been able to take a weak, yet refreshing, deep breath. I'm just going to coast through this week until Spring Break '09.

This year, I have had several different plans for Spring Break, but I think the one I have decided on now is a trip to DFW on Saturday afternoon/evenning. I plan on coming back Monday or Tuesdsay to Austin to spend the rest of the week doing random things around the condo. I have a friend that should be coming in town from Kansas so we'll be hanging out too. It'll be refreshing to be able to catch up on any/all homework and assignments, clean my room (spring cleaning...how appropriate), and enjoy Austin and the UT campus without worrying about schoolwork for once. I get excited just thinking about it. Is it here yet??? :)

Heather

Bittersweet Symphony

2009-03-02T10:54:00.004-06:00

I can't begin to describe the incredibl weekend that I just had. It was a little bittersweet considering the circumstances, but I'll take all of the good times I can get right about now.

After my full week of midterms (that I did alright on..can't complain) I headed out of the ATX Friday around 6pm and headed north on 35 with Samantha. After an eventful drive that was both hillarious and interesting, we made it back to my parents' house at about 9:45 and I had a relaxing evening with my parents, Samantha, Jeremy, and Ash. It was so much fun. I missed my family very much. Sometimes you forget your roots in the midst of all of the hustle and bustle of the world, and I'm glad I got a chance to be reminded of the most important things in life-family, friends, and God.

Saturday I went shopping with my mom, Samantha, and Ash for something to wear to a funeral since I had accidentally left my clothes in Austin (OOPS). At 2pm I went to the funeral of my good friend, Christine's father. There were about 2 pew-fulls of her closest friends from high school, college, and work sitting and ready for any moment that Christine needed us. I was extremely glad to see some old friends that still care, her closest friends drop everything and head in town (one even from Kansas), and her new friends be there showing us that she is taken care of when all of us are at our respective colleges. It was a huge swarm of love sent her way, and I know she noitced and appreciated all of it. I wish it were under better circumstances (as does she), but I know she needed to see the overwhelming love that surrounds her every day. It also made me go home and appreciate my family more. I don't know what I would do if anything happened to my parents, siblings, or any of my family members. She is stronger than I could be in this situation, and I am so proud of her.

Saturday night I went out to dinner with my parents and Ashley, and then went home and watched a movie with Mom and Dad. Sunday I woke up and went to lunch with Christine (since it was her 20th birthday yesterday as well) and all of the rest of the people who were in town and could make it. It was a blast. I had a great weekend.

I have no more midterms until April, so I feel refreshed and ready to kick butt this round of midterms. I didn't do so bad last round, so I can honestly push my grades up where I want them with this next round of exams, and the finals as well. I know I can do it. I know I will do it. I am so appreciative of all of the love, prayers, and help that my friends and family have been giving to me. I can't even begin to describe the joy in my heart for all of you. I can only hope and pray that each of you is having a great day, and a blessed week!

Heather

The Light At the End of the Tunnel

2009-02-26T01:23:00.003-06:00

Tonight I sit in front of my computer for an update, and can gladly say that I only have one more midterm left. I've been working so hard this week, I almost forgot how quickly time can fly when you're not paying attention. Mechanics of Solids better watch out, because I'm getting ready to kick some serious butt...
Today's wonderful moment is brought to you by: AT&T for totally crapping out on their service in the good ole ATX. For some reason, it appeared that only iPhones were affected (maybe it has something to do with the way they use the towers?) and I had no reception/bars from about 2pm today until 10pm. Awesome. I hope it's not a sign that I shouldn't be using this phone. Haha just kidding! I love this phone too much to be phased. It was rather irritating though.
This weekend will be somewhat bittersweet. I had planned the weekend for family only, since I haven't seen them in a very long time and I miss them terribly. However, on Monday my really good friend, Christine's father passed away and the memorial service will be held on Saturday afternoon. On one hand it is a very somber situation, but on the other hand it makes me value my friends, family, and support system more than ever. I begin to look around and realize that I put so much weight on so many trivial things in comparison to life itself. Christine's situation and lent together have helped me become closer to God and closer to sanity. I am very thankful for that.

Heather

Still Studying

2009-02-24T18:02:00.002-06:00

As of right now, I am officially halfway through with my first round of midterms for the semester. I ended up pulling an all-nighter last night and got to sleep around 7 this morning. Thankfully my class wasn't until 2pm today, so I was able to sleep until about noon or so-5 hours isn't too bad. My first exam (Statistics for Engineers) didn't go as well as I had hoped. I made a cheat sheet for the exam and felt well prepared going into the exam, but seeing as how the professor didn't let us know the format of the exam, I really couldn't prepare as adequately as I needed to. I'll just have to work harder on the next exam so that I can recover. The second exam today (WorldLit) could not have possibly gone any better. Out of the 75 question exam, I only second guessed myself and stumble on about 6 or 7. I'm glad, because I have been working hard to keep up with the readings so far, and I wanted to prove that it wasn't in vain. Go me! :) I'm about to start reviewing and working on my Linear Algebra class since the exam is at 1pm tomorrow. I don't forsee myself pulling an all-nighter tonight again (I don't think my body could handle it...) but I probably will stay up until midnight or so. I'll be prepared though. This next exam I am more confident about than any of the rest. Wish me luck!

An End Has A Start

2009-02-23T00:27:00.003-06:00

Not only do I have 4 exams this week, but now to add to all of my stress, I have officially lost a best friend. After the most ridiculous, immature, and obscenely inconsiderate actions of John, I have completely denounced our friendship and can no long speak to him. I saw a side of him that not only do I absolutely loathe, but he drew an angry emotion from deep within me that I have never felt before. An instense passionate anger that scared me to death to feel. I didn't know that I was capable of feeling so angry, hurt, and disappointed in someone. Our friendship is over. I am deeply frustrated with his immaturity and his lack of self control, but in the end it's for the best. I can't be friends with someone like that. And, at the end of the day I still have my best friend, Amanda Regalado, who has not only been there since day one, but continues to support me in a healthy and positive way-the way a best friend should. Although I am sad, and a little hurt, I know that with my extremely inspiring circle of friends that I can pull through this minor set back and move forward. It hurts to lose a best friend, but like I said, with all of the stress and pressure I have been getting from all angles of school, if I can stop negatvity and personal drama in any way possible, I will-even if that means saying goodbye to a friend. I must say that I had expected more, and I am so disgusted with the whole situation that he caused. It just goes to show you, girlfriends make the most idea best friends. I feel so much appreciation for Manda now, and even Bejah, for being there for me. A real best friend doesn't back down when things get tough or when you fight. A real best friend knows that at the end of the day you can't survive without their friendship. A real best friend doesn't act like an immature idiot whenever they feel like it and get to get away with it.
Anyways, back to my exams. I have 2 exams (Engineering Statistics and WorldLit) on Tuesday back to back, a Linear Algebra exam Wednesday, and a Mechanics of Solids Exam Friday afternoon. Then, I get to make the trip back to HEB to be with my family for the weekend. I absolutely can't wait. I'm going to have a stressful week, and it won't be pretty, but when I get to the weekend and get to spend it with the people I love it'll all be worth it. I haven't seen my parents, siblings, or nephew since I left for school in January and I miss them more than anything-especially now. Just cross your fingers I make it through this week! :)

Heather

Another Bittersweet Update

2009-02-19T12:54:00.003-06:00

Well, seeing as though I haven't posted an entry in awhile, with the exception of my homage to apple, I think it's about time to do so! Be excited.

This week I've been trying out a new schedule for homework and studying, and I must say that with the exception of one assignment that needs to be moved to a different workday, I am thoroughly impressed with my time management capabilities. Who knew I had skills like that?! This week has been half as stressful as last week, so I take that as a personal achievement for myself. Hooray!

This weekend, my best and closest friends-Manda, John, and Bekah-are coming in town to stay with me and visit. I'm going to be doing a lot of schoolwork during the weekend, but they assure me that it's no big deal. Plus, Manda has to do some studying of her own so it's all good. I'm just excited for a sweet little taste of home. I miss the HEB sometimes :) Then, next weekend I'm heading back up north to see my family back at my parent's house (yes..I just say 'my parent's house'....talk about a reality check) and to visit a little. Then it's going to be a long, hard push to spring break. I'm more stressed out about next week more than anything, though. I have 4 midterms, and 2 of them are back to back on the same day. I am seeing all-nighters and stressful breakdowns in my future. I'll live though. I always do. That being said, don't be surprised, or concerned, if I fail to update next week as I will be extremely busy and on the go. On a better note: I found out yesterday that my second hardest midterm for next week is allowing a one-page, front and back, cheat sheet for the exam. This lifted an extreme load off of my chest and I felt like for once I could see the light at the end of next week's tunnel. This first round of midterms is monumental for me, as it will set the tone for the rest of the semester. Wish me luck!

Heather

Ode to Apple

2009-02-16T22:39:00.002-06:00

Today, after getting the okay from my dad, I was able to get to the nearest AT&T store to purchase an iPhone. My mom graciously let me take her upgrade since mine isn't until July and I was able to get the 2year contract price and am the proud new owner of an awesome phone. I'm still trying to figure out what all I can do, but I can already tell that it's awesome. Although I am a huge fan of PC and all things that have to do with Windows when it comes to my laptop and computer work, I must admit that Apple has begun to steal my heart lately. My most prized posession (excluding my diamond ring) is still, and always will be, my 120GB iPod that I got for Christmas this past year, and now my iPhone has taken second place on that list of amazing gadgets and such. I am so excited to have an incredible MP3 player, a fantastic laptop, and now an amazing phone. I am one lucky lucky lucky girl to be able to own each of these advances in technology! I can't wait to find more cool things to do with all of these fun new toys :)

Heather

Whistle While You Work

2009-02-16T14:43:00.002-06:00

So I know I haven't updated in a while, so here it goes...

I had a FANTASTIC weekend! Friday night I went to a friend's birthday party and met a lot of cool new people, including one guy who yelled "Ashley" across the room. Turns out he grew up with Tabitha (Ash's future roommate) and he knew I wasn't Ashley, but didn't know how else to get my attention. That was kind of awkward. Haha. But it's always funny when someone acknowledges the fact that I have a twin sister, because everyone around them always ends up staring at me confused, because since I grew up with Ashley and haven't really though anything about being a twin since it's been so usual for me, I often forget to mention it.

Saturday I headed off to Baylor/Waco with my friend Kate and best friend Manda to visit our friend Bonnie for the night. We ate pizza, made virgin margaritas, and gossiped all night long. Sometimes it's so refreshing to meet back up with your girlfriends from high school, especially when it feels like you haven't skipped a beat at all. It was so much fun!

Now it's time to really hunker down this week, because next week I have 4 midterms in 5days and I don't want to be stressed next week with studying, especially since I have some people coming in town this weekend, so I'm getting a head start-What a concept! Also, I'm really excited about this week, because I have just talked to my dad and we both decided that I am going to be able to get an iPhone soon! I'm so stoked about that. It'll be nice to have a really mature and multi-funtional phone while I'm down here. Plus, my current phone is starting to crap out on me in various ways, and I would like something more reliable. Plus, the phone does so many awesome things! I'm soooo pumped. My daddy is too good to me :)

Well, I'd better get back to work for my classes. I hope everyone has a great day!

Heather

Etch-A-Sketch

2009-02-13T01:53:00.004-06:00

On Wednesday, during my Intro to Computer Aided Design class, I was assigned my first official sketch. We are to draw 3D landscapes and sceneries in the form of a frame-by-frame action shot. I haven't really decided on what to do mine on yet. Our examples range from walking down a hallway into a classroom, to tieing our shoes. The point of view has to be from our own eyes as we are carrying about this action that we are portraying to our professor. However, I have gone to the Co-Op Art Supply Store (I could get lost in there for DAYS and spend thousands and thousands of dollars...) and bough my first sketch book, some 2B drafting pencils, and 2 Drawing Scales-Engineering and Architectural. I decided tonight that once I finished my homework for my various other courses, that I would reward myself with a playdate with my new and nifty art tools. This resulted in a few halfhazard attempts at starting the drawing, and so far I have come up with one official first draft (kind of an oxymoron if you ask me...) of me pushing a shopping cart down an aisle at the supermarket towards the checkout counter. I know it's not much, but Meena seemed to be amused with it, and was impressed by my swift sketching techniques and the ability to turn out a sketch in a matter of minutes. Although, she could just be humored by the guy walking down the aisle towards me holding a case of beer. Nevertheless, I am very pleased with my first attempt at sketching and 3D work. Hopefully the next ones will be much better. Haha.

Heather

I Think I Can

2009-02-12T01:49:00.003-06:00

I keep thinking that if I just make it through this week-if I can catch up by Sunday-that I just might be able to survive the semester in one piece. I have made a study schedule for the rest of the semester based on what is due each day of the week, and have made everything so spaced out that not only will I have adequate time to complete each assignment, but I will be veering away from the current 3am sleep hour. Hopefully I can at least make it to next week and have everything covered so I won't have to play catch up anymore. It's not that I'm behind because I'm skipping classes, or avoiding assignments. It's because I hadn't yet discovered the most efficient order of doing things, and have consequently fallen behind*. As for the rest of the night? I'm going to go snuggle up in my bed and finish reading "Note From Underground" for my WorldLit class. Hopefully I make it through Fyodor Dostoevsky's absurd and mentally disturbed narrator ramblings. Wish me luck...

Heather

*I have not fallen so behind that I am upside-down on my classes. In fact I'm not really behind at all. I just want to be ahead and comfortable with my pace unlike my current situation.

Oh I Love A Rainy Night...

2009-02-10T21:59:00.004-06:00

Well, it's been a crazy weather evening tonight! The same storm system that hit my parents' house and produced a tornado a few miles away, is the same band of storms that is currently soaking all of Austin and the UT campus. I love the soothing rain. I love this weather!

So after a brief mental breakdown, a few stressful homework assignments, an INCREDIBLE carepackage from my parents, and some wonderful phone conversations with my friends, I am finally back on track for the semester. I may have hit a bump in the road, but I've left it behind and I'm going full-steam ahead now. I've created a study schedule to help break down my assignments for each week, and I've been paying extra attention in all of my classes to ensure that I am preparing for our midterms adequately. We'll see how I do on the first round in 2 weeks.

This weekend's agenda? Alright. I'll tell you...
Friday night is one of my good friend's birthday so we're going out to his place in FarWest for a fun night. I bought a really cute dress from Forever21 today, so I will be headed out there in style!
Saturday night is Valentines Day (insert bitter, single comment here). One of my really good friends and her boyfriend just broke up this week, so I will be heading to Waco Saturday with my friend, Kate from UT and we'll be meeting my best friend, Manda there as well to spend the weekend celebrating old friends and new opportunities :)

Well, that appears to be all I have for you folks. I'm off to enjoy some homework, some reading, and this beautiful rain.♥

Heather

A Rather Important Update

2009-02-08T12:19:00.002-06:00

I know what you're thinking-"Dang this girl sure does write a lot. I can't keep up with her endless and pointless entires." Well, all I have to say to that is-tough luck. :-P I do have a lot to write about, but this blog is for the both of us, my avid reader, and I intend to take full advantage of this little blank box where I can write until my heart's content. That being said, I actually do have some rather important news that requires an update...

Last week, one of my roommates, Kyla, was suffering from the common cold, when she decided to take a DayQuil or something of the same variety before she went to bed. Well, it turns out she didn't swallow it all of the way and it ended up sitting in her throat all night long. She was rather uncomfortable, but didn't think anything of it and figured it would eventually dislodge itself. When she woke up the next morning, the pill had finally digested, however, it left behind an intense sore throat. She was claiming that she had a hole in her esophogus, and me being the skeptic, I rolled my eyes at her and told her that she was a drama queen. Turns out, when she went to the doctor 3 days later since the pain was unwaivering, she was told that in fact her esophogus does have a hole in it. The coating on pills is to keep the pill's contents from damaging the lining of the esophogus, and when it stayed in her throat the coating went away and the pill proceeded to damaging her throat. When she went home this weekend to Houston, she ended up in the Emergency Room this morning because she hasn't been eating and no medicine has been working. They told her since she's not vomiting blood and it was Sunday, they couldn't do a scope to examine the damage. So, she has to find a doctor here and get scoped this week. They said she may even need surgery. If you know Kyla, you know that her favorite hobby is eating, so the most devastating part about all of this is the fact that she can't eat anything. She's extremely upset. That being said, I hope she's okay.

Heather

The Camping Trip That Wasn't (And Other Various Things)

2009-02-07T14:38:00.004-06:00

Alright, so for those of you who weren't aware, I was supposed to be going camping today for the night about 30 minutes outside of Austin. Well, I decided this morning (and by morning I mean afternoon...) when I woke up that it was better for me to just sit around the house and catch up on homework, and maybe go out to see a movie tonight instead. I need a relaxing evening since all I've been doing lately is going, going, going. I'm excited to have a really low-key day.

I just got back from getting my nails done. Against my better judgement, I decided to "cheat" on my nail salon back in DFW since I haven't, and will not, be able to get back up there any time soon and my nails desperately needed to be filled/manicured. So I went. I should have stayed with my gut, because I am thoroughly disgusted with the subpar result. The nail tech did an alright job with the nails themselves, but she paid no attention to the way they were done previously (aka the way I like to have them done) and therefore did a horrible job. She cut my fingers, bruised my nail beds, and took an hour and fifteen minutes to complete a job that usually takes 45 minutes maximum at my other place. Needless to say, I will never go back there again and my salon in DFW better be ready for damage control.

Well, this is the part where I head off to my various activities for the night. I hope everyone has a blessed evening :)

Heather

Another Monotonous Day...

2009-02-06T14:19:00.000-06:00

I just got back from my three classes for today: World Lit Discussion, Linear Algebra, and Mechanics of Solids. I must say that today in particular I was acutely aware of the steady, sometimes boring, pace of my college career, this semester in particular.

I have been making an intense effort this semester to raise my grades up to where I think they need to be. However, the side effect to this goal is the elimination of all things interesting, and fun. They say that in college, there are three key elements to strive for: good academics/grades, an active social life, and adequate sleep. Of these three, it is said that only two are attainable, thus leaving the third one in the "unattainable" category. I must admit that the past few semesters, I have juggled between ignoring sleep and the wonderful world of academia in order to build a substantial "network" of friends here at UT. However, this semester I have limited my activities to the weekends, and for once, I am starting to feel that it is not impossible (although improbable fits) to gain control of all three desired aspects. I am going to all of my classes, staying on top of my scholastic obligations, and even finding time for that occasional movie, dinner with a friend, or even a "study group" (as I playfully call it when talking to my parents) on Friday or Saturday nights.

However, sometimes I take a step back and often wonder if I'm gaining anything from this experience of the constant hustle and bustle of college life. Sure, I'm learning more about Newtonian Physics, Bearing Stress/Strain, Matrix Calculations, Engineering Probability, and Design, but with all of the constant attention to homeworks and such, will I ever really appreciate it? I barely have time to talk to my roommates, and I don't know when the last time I talked on the phone with my parents was. I'm just hoping that everyone who hasn't had the chance to speak with me lately understands that I am preoccupied with my feeble attempt at success in my degree, and that in the end I will not only have the skills and intelligence, but also the passion to pursue my career in Architectural Engineering. Here's to faith, hope, and determination!

Heather

My First Entry

2009-02-06T00:37:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I've decided that since so many of you are now joining this website to blog, I figured I'd join as well to give everyone a periodic update of my so-called life. I must admit that I have in fact been using (and frequently posting) on Xanga and I've decided that now that I am 20 years old, it is about time to turn toward a more mature setting to post my thoughts, goals, and experiences.

You may care, and you may not, but here I am-a writer-trying to somehow jot down anything and everything imaginable. I hope you somewhat enjoy what you read, if you do in fact read this. :)

-Heather