I couldn't resist. This is too beautiful not to share...
The Wailin' Jennys - This Is Where
(Good music for studying and reading, yes?)
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Busy Season
At UCLA, I'm entering 9th week. For anyone who is familiar with the quarter system, that means that it's getting down to the last 3ish weeks of classes/finals. And it is at this point where I traditionally take a technology hiatus (read: Facebook) until all of my finals are over. I ask a roomie or close friend to change my Facebook passwords until the last day of finals. After I'm all done, I get access to my account.
Tell me to use self control? This is what it looks like, people. I don't think of Facebook as a problem, but rather a distraction. And if I can rid of distractions... you know the drill.
Anyway, this post is just to explain my upcoming radio silence. I may/may not update as I see fit. But don't leave me if I'm not frequently posting. Deal? Okay.
And just to prove that I'm not completely heartless, I thought I'd give you guys a little video to take the edge off this post. This is currently what's stuck in my head. And honestly, it's a beautiful song. I consider it a good thing. Take a listen:
Bon Iver - Blindsided
Tell me to use self control? This is what it looks like, people. I don't think of Facebook as a problem, but rather a distraction. And if I can rid of distractions... you know the drill.
Anyway, this post is just to explain my upcoming radio silence. I may/may not update as I see fit. But don't leave me if I'm not frequently posting. Deal? Okay.
And just to prove that I'm not completely heartless, I thought I'd give you guys a little video to take the edge off this post. This is currently what's stuck in my head. And honestly, it's a beautiful song. I consider it a good thing. Take a listen:
Bon Iver - Blindsided
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Evernote
If you have an Apple computer, (and I suspect that many of you do)
there is a free software program that is ama-za-zing. I couldn't help but
post a review/recommendation. It's made my life so much easier. For
reals.
Evernote.
It's basically a note-taking and organizing program. As in, I
create text/video/photo/audio notes and it organizes it for me.
The big deal? It's free and I'm categorizing my plethora of
recipes on it. I can create notes from web clips, drag & drop
photos, and even sync from my iPhone. Another really
cool fact about this program is that it's all backed up online.
So if my hard drive ever decides to head south like it did at
the beginning of the year, I can re-download the program
and all my notes are 100% intact. Pretty awesome, right?
Unfortunately, the program isn't for PC's. But if you
have an Apple platform, it definitely is worth a look.
Check it out! Evernote.com
there is a free software program that is ama-za-zing. I couldn't help but
post a review/recommendation. It's made my life so much easier. For
reals.
Evernote.
It's basically a note-taking and organizing program. As in, I
create text/video/photo/audio notes and it organizes it for me.
The big deal? It's free and I'm categorizing my plethora of
recipes on it. I can create notes from web clips, drag & drop
photos, and even sync from my iPhone. Another really
cool fact about this program is that it's all backed up online.
So if my hard drive ever decides to head south like it did at
the beginning of the year, I can re-download the program
and all my notes are 100% intact. Pretty awesome, right?
Unfortunately, the program isn't for PC's. But if you
have an Apple platform, it definitely is worth a look.
Check it out! Evernote.com
Monday, February 21, 2011
Monday Tunes
Laura Marling - New Romantic
Love the narrative vocal line. Like listening to a conversation and a song all in one.
And it certainly doesn't hurt that her voice is gorgeous. A very simple and delicate
song.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Food Poisoning
Yup. I got it. Not fun. Spent the day up in bed, with only some flat 7Up as my companion. I cancelled all my appointments and meetings, much to my chagrin. It's just not the most ideal situation, but I'm thanking the Lord in all circumstances.
You want the latest? This is it. Buh-mmer.
Hopefully, I'll be shipshape by Friday.
Join me in prayer, won't ya?
You want the latest? This is it. Buh-mmer.
Hopefully, I'll be shipshape by Friday.
Join me in prayer, won't ya?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Waiting Game
These days, I feel like I'm caught in some sort of a holding pattern. Some decisions, big ones about my future, are coming up in April. In case you're new to my blog or don't know what I'm talking about, I applied to a job over in France for next year. It's a one year to two year teaching contract within the French school system. Basically, I'll be teaching English.
That being said, I find out if I am accepted into the program/job in April. I know that's around 8+ weeks until I get any sort of answer, but I'm still a little bit on edge. Once I know where I'll be next year, I can make some major decisions about next year, like if I remain in LA or plan a temporary move back home and then overseas. And I'll be really really honest, this decision has been the source of anxiety as I face the end of my time here at UCLA. I feel like there's so many loose ends that I have to tie up here, like leaving my church and friends.
The thought of not being at my church or with my friends out here does make me a little bit sad, but I know that if I'm relocated to France, that the Lord will provide bountifully for me. It's always an issue of faith, I think for me. At this point in my life, I have no control over what happens, as far as this program is concerned. This is a great opportunity for me to trust in the Lord and to lean on His sovereignty in my life. I mean, all that I really can do is live my life to please my Savior.
So please join me in prayer as I look for the future, that I will be wise and will not fall to anxiety or fear. Because fear takes from you, it steals your joy in Christ and makes the blessing of trust feel like a punishment.
That being said, I find out if I am accepted into the program/job in April. I know that's around 8+ weeks until I get any sort of answer, but I'm still a little bit on edge. Once I know where I'll be next year, I can make some major decisions about next year, like if I remain in LA or plan a temporary move back home and then overseas. And I'll be really really honest, this decision has been the source of anxiety as I face the end of my time here at UCLA. I feel like there's so many loose ends that I have to tie up here, like leaving my church and friends.
The thought of not being at my church or with my friends out here does make me a little bit sad, but I know that if I'm relocated to France, that the Lord will provide bountifully for me. It's always an issue of faith, I think for me. At this point in my life, I have no control over what happens, as far as this program is concerned. This is a great opportunity for me to trust in the Lord and to lean on His sovereignty in my life. I mean, all that I really can do is live my life to please my Savior.
So please join me in prayer as I look for the future, that I will be wise and will not fall to anxiety or fear. Because fear takes from you, it steals your joy in Christ and makes the blessing of trust feel like a punishment.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Kate Spade
Okay, so I've really been into the stylings of the designer Kate Spade as of late. She has such a unique spin on things, with a little bit of '50's and '60's influence too. I just can't get enough of the sleek tailoring paired with beautiful fabrics and finishes. It's tasteful and grownup clothing for women that isn't frumpy or matronly. And let's be honest, I'm moving into a period of my life when shopping for Forever 21 isn't gonna cut it. As I enter the "adult" world (grad school, job, etc) I realize that my wardrobe needs to be functional, well tailored, and sophisticated.
All too often, I live in jeans, flip flops, and layered tee shirts. It's all well and good while I'm a college kid, but that phase isn't going to last forever. My wardrobe needs to follow. So I've just been inspired by Kate Spade's style as something that I want to try and emulate. I mean, I don't have the financial resources to afford her pieces, as they run around $300 - $400. But I'd like to take that inspiration that she provides and use it for when I buy new pieces of clothing.
Wanna take a look? I thought so...
Visit the website for more!
All too often, I live in jeans, flip flops, and layered tee shirts. It's all well and good while I'm a college kid, but that phase isn't going to last forever. My wardrobe needs to follow. So I've just been inspired by Kate Spade's style as something that I want to try and emulate. I mean, I don't have the financial resources to afford her pieces, as they run around $300 - $400. But I'd like to take that inspiration that she provides and use it for when I buy new pieces of clothing.
Wanna take a look? I thought so...
 |
| How cute would this be with a cardigan and pearls? |
 |
| What a chic dress! |
Visit the website for more!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Kindle
As some of you guys know, I got a Kindle for Christmas. And I really love it. It's portable, light, sleek, and has the capacity to carry over three thousand books. It looks so cute in its apple green leather case (another generous gift from my parents) and I like to carry it with me on campus or to the coffee shop. I've read a few books on it with no problem. In fact, I kinda forget that I'm reading it on an electronic screen.
But I've had a nagging issue with it. Just one.
It doesn't display real-time page numbers. For example, if I had an actual book and compared it to the same text on a Kindle, the actual page numbers would be different. You see, the Kindle has its own page numbering system. Rather than marking actual pages, it gives the reader the page location relative to the book. Obviously, this is a problem if I'm trying to cite any sort of information in an academic context. I mean, I can't just write on my works cited page that it's "Location 5.482". That's a little ridiculous.
So instead of using my Kindle for any sort of academic reading, I've been just using it for fun. There's some great theology books and other poetical readings that I've been "leafing" through. But I've always wanted the opportunity to read for class via Kindle. I actually read faster and in a less distracted way with the device.
It's a rather strange thing, considering the reaction from the English major community. I was previously riding the fence about the Kindle, wondering if I would actually enjoy it. I've heard that the Kindle was "killing" books and the printed word. I've also heard that it was the "next step" in publication. But to be honest, the form of the book doesn't really matter. And if you think about it, the "book" has evolved so much, from manuscripts and papyrus to stitched together novels. What really should count is the content. Think about it, Chaucer never published in a book form. In fact, he never "published" at all. So why should I look down on books in an electronic form? It's not about the form. It's about the content.
But the main point of this post, the real reason, is that I just got a software upgrade for my Kindle that assigns real-time page numbers to all of the books. That means that I can actually cite pages, saving me money, time, and weight for my books. Imagine. Instead of being weighed down with physical books, I can just carry a Kindle that weighs less than a pound! Basically, it's a huge, awesome and amazing thing. So my qualms with my Kindle have been resolved and I am one happy camper.
But I've had a nagging issue with it. Just one.
It doesn't display real-time page numbers. For example, if I had an actual book and compared it to the same text on a Kindle, the actual page numbers would be different. You see, the Kindle has its own page numbering system. Rather than marking actual pages, it gives the reader the page location relative to the book. Obviously, this is a problem if I'm trying to cite any sort of information in an academic context. I mean, I can't just write on my works cited page that it's "Location 5.482". That's a little ridiculous.
So instead of using my Kindle for any sort of academic reading, I've been just using it for fun. There's some great theology books and other poetical readings that I've been "leafing" through. But I've always wanted the opportunity to read for class via Kindle. I actually read faster and in a less distracted way with the device.
It's a rather strange thing, considering the reaction from the English major community. I was previously riding the fence about the Kindle, wondering if I would actually enjoy it. I've heard that the Kindle was "killing" books and the printed word. I've also heard that it was the "next step" in publication. But to be honest, the form of the book doesn't really matter. And if you think about it, the "book" has evolved so much, from manuscripts and papyrus to stitched together novels. What really should count is the content. Think about it, Chaucer never published in a book form. In fact, he never "published" at all. So why should I look down on books in an electronic form? It's not about the form. It's about the content.
But the main point of this post, the real reason, is that I just got a software upgrade for my Kindle that assigns real-time page numbers to all of the books. That means that I can actually cite pages, saving me money, time, and weight for my books. Imagine. Instead of being weighed down with physical books, I can just carry a Kindle that weighs less than a pound! Basically, it's a huge, awesome and amazing thing. So my qualms with my Kindle have been resolved and I am one happy camper.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The Kosher Market
For all of you Angeleno's out there (you know, residents of Los Angeles...) I have found something truly remarkable. Glatt Kosher Market. Situated on Santa Monica and Colby St, it definitely has plenty of character and spunk. At any given time, it is crowded, full of middle aged Jewish and Persian ladies, their carts full and overflowing. The aisles are cramped and the store is small but it has the best prices for produce that I've ever seen. For example, a large bundle of dill only costs me 65 cents, and most of their vegetable run at under $2 per lb. Basically, it's a GREAT deal for GOOD produce.
The discount doesn't stop there. It extends to the meat too. I get high quality kosher chicken/beef/turkey for ama-za-zing prices. So much better than Ralphs. And because it's kosher meat, it's very very high quality. But those prices don't seem to get in the way of some funny cultural "translations" that I find, especially in the meat section. Take a look!
 |
| Shnitzel? What is this? Doesn't matter... I bought it anyway. YUM. |
 |
| This definitely re-defines "cutlets" into "chicken nuggets shaped like dinosaurs and stars". I literally laughed out loud. |
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Girls Gone Wise
I've stumbled upon something really really great. I mean, I've heard about this ministry for a little while now and have been told about the book but never really gave it any serious consideration. But the "Girls Gone Wise" ministry is an awesome resource for girls and women.
Their approach is refreshingly simple and hits straight home, at least for me. A lot of Biblical womanhood sites that I frequent talk about how to love and serve your husband or children. I don't know about you, but I'm not in that position at the moment. Although I love love love sites like GirlTalk, some of their advice doesn't apply to me yet. But that doesn't mean that I can't listen and plan for the future. Sometimes, I just want Biblical advice that sits on my level, that understands the battles that I fight as a single lady and the specific ways in which I am tempted to sin.
The thing that sets "Girls Gone Wise" apart is that it's focused on single/dating young women. It challenges girls' worldview and puts the gospel into perspective with their lives. But the advice and council isn't stuffy and dated, like "boys only like girls who wear dresses" or "Godly girls are always quiet". No, they focus on cultivating a heart for the Lord and to serve the church. Because when your heart is in the right place, your actions follow accordingly. I feel like they're speaking straight to me!
But don't take my word for it... check it out for yourself!
Girls Gone Wise
Their approach is refreshingly simple and hits straight home, at least for me. A lot of Biblical womanhood sites that I frequent talk about how to love and serve your husband or children. I don't know about you, but I'm not in that position at the moment. Although I love love love sites like GirlTalk, some of their advice doesn't apply to me yet. But that doesn't mean that I can't listen and plan for the future. Sometimes, I just want Biblical advice that sits on my level, that understands the battles that I fight as a single lady and the specific ways in which I am tempted to sin.
The thing that sets "Girls Gone Wise" apart is that it's focused on single/dating young women. It challenges girls' worldview and puts the gospel into perspective with their lives. But the advice and council isn't stuffy and dated, like "boys only like girls who wear dresses" or "Godly girls are always quiet". No, they focus on cultivating a heart for the Lord and to serve the church. Because when your heart is in the right place, your actions follow accordingly. I feel like they're speaking straight to me!
But don't take my word for it... check it out for yourself!
Girls Gone Wise
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)