Hello, sunshines.
It's almost finals week(s). Things aren't looking too sun-shiny from where I'm sitting but I'm sure my perspective will be quite different on the other side of May 4.
Here's some ramblings for you all though...
Lately, I've thought a lot about how old I am and how much time has passed and how I've done a lot of things that I'm proud to have done, or that I thought I should have done, but there are still a lot of things I'd like to do. I'm figuring out, more and more each day, just what those things are. I'm excited to get started on some of these things, and a bit peeved that I haven't done them sooner.
But what I seem to find myself dwelling on is the things that I'm sure I've already missed out on. Some of these things are probably things that you would tell me I could still do, or can still do. But I would have to say no. The time has passed. There is a time and a place for everything, and while some things, blessedly, transcend time, others do not. It is a simple, unchangeable, sometimes harsh fact of life. But it is a certainty.
Can I take some solace in that? No. No, I really can't.
I'm beginning to accept, as a part of life, this fact that there are certain things I've missed out on, and certain things I will never have, or never do, or never experience. I suppose you might say that I am coming to terms with my own decisions and attempting to live life without regret. And it's not so much regret, as it is a longing for an experience that is simply an impossibility.
This is a rather depressing blogpost. Apologies for that.
I guess the point that this blog is supposed to be getting at is that I am going to make every effort I can to do the things I want to do, to experience the things I want to experience, and to see the things I want to see, while I still can, and, more specifically, when I have the opportunity to do so.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Peru
I think I'm supposed to go to Peru. It keeps popping up in my life. On of my FB friends went to Peru recently, and posted a bunch of amazing pictures. I was telling another friend about how I was looking through these pictures and getting jealous - at which point my friend told me about his amazing trip to Peru. The next day, I was looking through the paper and saw an article about how some Peruvians would be visiting Peru, Nebraska for some book thing.
It's when it happens in threes like this that I start to feel like maybe it means something.
Go to Peru, Samantha.
It's when it happens in threes like this that I start to feel like maybe it means something.
Go to Peru, Samantha.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Sometimes, I really don't like people.
So many times, throughout our lives, we are exposed to so many people, both personally as well as through various media, who show us the very despicable nature of man.
It's quite disheartening. It makes me lose faith in humanity.
But then I remember my sister, and my brother-in-law; my closest friends spread throughout the country, and those here in Lincoln; the truly decent people in the world, who want to do good things, who do, in fact, do good things. Who love and live compassionately. And that gives me a little hope.
So many times, throughout our lives, we are exposed to so many people, both personally as well as through various media, who show us the very despicable nature of man.
It's quite disheartening. It makes me lose faith in humanity.
But then I remember my sister, and my brother-in-law; my closest friends spread throughout the country, and those here in Lincoln; the truly decent people in the world, who want to do good things, who do, in fact, do good things. Who love and live compassionately. And that gives me a little hope.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Big Decisions...
Hi sunshines. Quick happy note: My dad had a chest x-ray on Monday, and he got the results back today - all clear!! Hurray!
We're starting to talk about registration for classes for next fall. This is going to be the first time we actually choose which classes we take. During the first year, we take the classes they tell us to take, with the professors they tell us to take them from, at the time they tell us to take them at. (Urgh - ending sentences in prepositions…)
Next fall is the first opportunity we have to choose our classes, and there are SO many to choose from. We've only got two years left and there are so many great classes to take, but definitely not enough time to take them all. We have to choose to take the right classes at the right times to ensure that we have the proper pre-reqs. Not something I am inexperienced in, but much more difficult when you don't know for sure which classes will be offered during your third year, or which type(s) of law you want to specialize in.
Would it really be so bad to choose a specialty based on the professors I like?
For so long, I've taken courses and talked about doing the type of law that makes a lot of money, because I thought I would enjoy being a high-powered, scary lawyer. I'm not sure anymore that I want to do that. I'm trying to take steps to do things I want to do, instead things I think I should do, or I think other people think I should do.
This feels like a very important decision. And I feel that there is not enough time to make it, because registration packets aren't even available yet and I've got some other things on my plate at this point … namely, finals.
This too shall pass.
Whether I want it to, or not.
We're starting to talk about registration for classes for next fall. This is going to be the first time we actually choose which classes we take. During the first year, we take the classes they tell us to take, with the professors they tell us to take them from, at the time they tell us to take them at. (Urgh - ending sentences in prepositions…)
Next fall is the first opportunity we have to choose our classes, and there are SO many to choose from. We've only got two years left and there are so many great classes to take, but definitely not enough time to take them all. We have to choose to take the right classes at the right times to ensure that we have the proper pre-reqs. Not something I am inexperienced in, but much more difficult when you don't know for sure which classes will be offered during your third year, or which type(s) of law you want to specialize in.
Would it really be so bad to choose a specialty based on the professors I like?
For so long, I've taken courses and talked about doing the type of law that makes a lot of money, because I thought I would enjoy being a high-powered, scary lawyer. I'm not sure anymore that I want to do that. I'm trying to take steps to do things I want to do, instead things I think I should do, or I think other people think I should do.
This feels like a very important decision. And I feel that there is not enough time to make it, because registration packets aren't even available yet and I've got some other things on my plate at this point … namely, finals.
This too shall pass.
Whether I want it to, or not.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
New Experiences and the Same Old Excuses
Hey there, Sunshines.
Question - do you like to do new things? Do actually enjoy doing new things? I do sometimes, but for the most part, not so much.
I get so anxious and nervous doing new things. Especially (mostly) if I have to do something new alone. I also get surprisingly anxious when I have to do something new with other people who have done it (whatever it may be) before. Interestingly enough, I thrive in situations where everyone is a newb.
Sometimes, if I really trust a person, I can do a new thing with them even though they are already very experienced. I've only really had this kind of trust with one person. Not important…
I digress…
I've done a lot of new things these past couple of weeks. And I've actually really enjoyed them. And strangely enough, even though everyone always tells you this, it actually HAS gotten easier to do the new things the more I do.
That's a good thing, I think.
But then I think about the new things I've been doing, and why I've been doing them, and I have to wonder --- Do i do new things because I WANT to do these new things or do I do new things because I'm merely hoping to somehow benefit from the experience of doing something new? Is it fair to drag other people through the anxiety and agony of my new experiences just so I can garner some sense of security in future new experiences?
Am I using that as an excuse to cop out of doing new things?
I feel like this happens a lot. I have a problem. I see a rational answer or reason for the problem. And then I'm left to wonder if that so-called "rational answer" is really the answer, or merely an excuse.
Question - do you like to do new things? Do actually enjoy doing new things? I do sometimes, but for the most part, not so much.
I get so anxious and nervous doing new things. Especially (mostly) if I have to do something new alone. I also get surprisingly anxious when I have to do something new with other people who have done it (whatever it may be) before. Interestingly enough, I thrive in situations where everyone is a newb.
Sometimes, if I really trust a person, I can do a new thing with them even though they are already very experienced. I've only really had this kind of trust with one person. Not important…
I digress…
I've done a lot of new things these past couple of weeks. And I've actually really enjoyed them. And strangely enough, even though everyone always tells you this, it actually HAS gotten easier to do the new things the more I do.
That's a good thing, I think.
But then I think about the new things I've been doing, and why I've been doing them, and I have to wonder --- Do i do new things because I WANT to do these new things or do I do new things because I'm merely hoping to somehow benefit from the experience of doing something new? Is it fair to drag other people through the anxiety and agony of my new experiences just so I can garner some sense of security in future new experiences?
Am I using that as an excuse to cop out of doing new things?
I feel like this happens a lot. I have a problem. I see a rational answer or reason for the problem. And then I'm left to wonder if that so-called "rational answer" is really the answer, or merely an excuse.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
March 29, 2011...
When it rains, it pours.
I'm not particularly fond of precipitation of any sort.
But I do enjoy singing in the rain.
I'm not particularly fond of precipitation of any sort.
But I do enjoy singing in the rain.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Spring Break
This week, I'm on Spring Break. It's pretty fantastic. I can sleep in as late as I want (although I don't really) and I can catch up on TV shows (all 3 that I watch) and do really fun things that I don't seem to have time for during the school year.
Yesterday, I went to Omaha to say goodbye to my friend Whitney. She was headed back to Colorado, so we spent a few hours together before her flight home. We walked around in the Old Market, window shopped, stopped for coffee, and had some awesome chicken salad.
I also got to stop at Whole Foods on my way home - such a luxury for us Lincoln-ites! I picked up some ingredients to make Whitney's organic truffles, which I made when I got home. The fam seems to like them, so I guess that was a success.
Today, I took my little brother Michael to Omaha to go rock climbing! I used to climb every now and then back in Chicago, but haven't had much opportunity to since I moved back. The CREC on city campus actually has a fairly decent wall, but you have to take a class to be able to climb on it, and of course they aren't offering the class over spring break. So Michael and I hit up "The Rock" at SkateDaze… Erm, you can kind of tell what it's going to be like from the name, but it was still fun. The auto-belays are convenient and I haven't been climbing in so long, it's not like I'm very good these days anyway.
Well, enough chit chat… see for yourself:
Yesterday, I went to Omaha to say goodbye to my friend Whitney. She was headed back to Colorado, so we spent a few hours together before her flight home. We walked around in the Old Market, window shopped, stopped for coffee, and had some awesome chicken salad.
I also got to stop at Whole Foods on my way home - such a luxury for us Lincoln-ites! I picked up some ingredients to make Whitney's organic truffles, which I made when I got home. The fam seems to like them, so I guess that was a success.
Today, I took my little brother Michael to Omaha to go rock climbing! I used to climb every now and then back in Chicago, but haven't had much opportunity to since I moved back. The CREC on city campus actually has a fairly decent wall, but you have to take a class to be able to climb on it, and of course they aren't offering the class over spring break. So Michael and I hit up "The Rock" at SkateDaze… Erm, you can kind of tell what it's going to be like from the name, but it was still fun. The auto-belays are convenient and I haven't been climbing in so long, it's not like I'm very good these days anyway.
Well, enough chit chat… see for yourself:
Monday, March 14, 2011
Mr. Brightside
Hello, sunshines.
It's almost spring break time. And it's almost St. Patrick's Day. The weather is getting quite nice. I'm nearly done with legal writing.
I'm trying really hard to look on the bright side, here, sunshines.
I'm Mr. Brightside.
Blah. Maybe it's just a case of the doldrums? Do you ever just feel like you're getting kicked when you're down? Repeatedly. It's not that there's anything particularly wrong but there's also just not anything particularly …great.
I'm not going to make an enumerated list for you all of the things that are less than good. That seems a tad narcissistic. Or attention seeking? I'm not even certain I'm going to post this blog.
It's a bit disjointed. Ugh. I have to go get some laundry, kiddos. Hold that thought.
Aaaaand she's back.
So here's the dealio -- I'm in law school. There's not a whole lot new or exciting going on. I think I'm just getting bored. I need a new hobby. I welcome suggestions! Preferably nothing expensive - k, thanks.
Also, Arsenal lost on Saturday. :( Out of the Carling Cup. Out of the Champions League. Out of the FA Cup. UGH!
And that's the long and the short of it.
Who wants an update? I do! I do!
I am terribly missing my dear friends right now. Lizzy and Lyds and Whitey. Why does everyone have to be so far away? Why couldn't I go to Chicago last weekend for St. Baldricks? It's been soooo long! Too long. I need to work on a plan to visit! But Whitey will be here soon (she's visiting over her spring break) and Lizzy will be here in June (w00t), so I just need to work on visiting Lyds.
Very, very soon, I get to see Sarah! I'm in her wedding and I get to go to Ohio (O-HI-O! …Drew Carey… right?) for the shower, and then a little later for the wedding! So excited! Have not seen her ages either. And I'm so happy for her and Brandon! They are going to be great together. I mean, they already are, but even better after marriage!
I feel better now. Thanks for listening, sunshines!
And for the happy couple…
P.S. Seriously, I have more interesting blogs planned for the near future. Going to work on them over Spring Break and stuff. Promise.
It's almost spring break time. And it's almost St. Patrick's Day. The weather is getting quite nice. I'm nearly done with legal writing.
I'm trying really hard to look on the bright side, here, sunshines.
I'm Mr. Brightside.
Blah. Maybe it's just a case of the doldrums? Do you ever just feel like you're getting kicked when you're down? Repeatedly. It's not that there's anything particularly wrong but there's also just not anything particularly …great.
I'm not going to make an enumerated list for you all of the things that are less than good. That seems a tad narcissistic. Or attention seeking? I'm not even certain I'm going to post this blog.
It's a bit disjointed. Ugh. I have to go get some laundry, kiddos. Hold that thought.
Aaaaand she's back.
So here's the dealio -- I'm in law school. There's not a whole lot new or exciting going on. I think I'm just getting bored. I need a new hobby. I welcome suggestions! Preferably nothing expensive - k, thanks.
Also, Arsenal lost on Saturday. :( Out of the Carling Cup. Out of the Champions League. Out of the FA Cup. UGH!
And that's the long and the short of it.
Who wants an update? I do! I do!
I am terribly missing my dear friends right now. Lizzy and Lyds and Whitey. Why does everyone have to be so far away? Why couldn't I go to Chicago last weekend for St. Baldricks? It's been soooo long! Too long. I need to work on a plan to visit! But Whitey will be here soon (she's visiting over her spring break) and Lizzy will be here in June (w00t), so I just need to work on visiting Lyds.
Very, very soon, I get to see Sarah! I'm in her wedding and I get to go to Ohio (O-HI-O! …Drew Carey… right?) for the shower, and then a little later for the wedding! So excited! Have not seen her ages either. And I'm so happy for her and Brandon! They are going to be great together. I mean, they already are, but even better after marriage!
I feel better now. Thanks for listening, sunshines!
And for the happy couple…
P.S. Seriously, I have more interesting blogs planned for the near future. Going to work on them over Spring Break and stuff. Promise.
Monday, March 7, 2011
GTFO
Today I was reminded of why I need to get the hell out of Dodge. I am continually disappointed with the bigotry I see each day. I fail to see the logic; I cannot understand or comprehend the reasoning. And I'm fairly convinced that if you are unable to qualitatively or quantitatively define or defend your position, then it is a position grown in ignorance and steeped in unfounded hatred.
On that note, let's take a moment to listen to something a bit different:
On that note, let's take a moment to listen to something a bit different:
Monday, February 28, 2011
Today was too beautiful not to run outside…
Today was just absolutely gorgeous. The snow on the sidewalks has melted enough that they are mostly dry; it was sunny, not too windy, and not at all cold.
It's a rare day when I can run while listening to John Mayer, Jack Johnson and the Postal Service, but it was really just that nice outside. Glorious.
So, as some of you know, I've run a few half-marathons in my time. And, as some of you know, I've been struggling with something of an injury lately (plantar fasciitis in my right foot). I thought running outside would be bad for it - the articles all say that running on the treadmill has less impact, so it's better when you're recovering - but I decided today was just too awesome to waste worrying about a sore foot.
The first 12 minutes were pretty great. Then there was just too much of the same for my foot to handle. Starting out uphill, everything was fine. But too much uphill, and it hurts. Same thing going back - too much downhill, hurts. The uneven (snow covered) ground, hurts a LOT. Wasn't expecting that one.
At this point, I have more endurance and energy than I can actually use whilst running, which is unfortunate (and so unusual for me). Running did hurt at times, but all in all, it wasn't so bad. And even though I feel like a frightened dog waiting for the next jolt of pain, it was totally worth it to get outside and actually run in the fresh air.
It's a rare day when I can run while listening to John Mayer, Jack Johnson and the Postal Service, but it was really just that nice outside. Glorious.
So, as some of you know, I've run a few half-marathons in my time. And, as some of you know, I've been struggling with something of an injury lately (plantar fasciitis in my right foot). I thought running outside would be bad for it - the articles all say that running on the treadmill has less impact, so it's better when you're recovering - but I decided today was just too awesome to waste worrying about a sore foot.
The first 12 minutes were pretty great. Then there was just too much of the same for my foot to handle. Starting out uphill, everything was fine. But too much uphill, and it hurts. Same thing going back - too much downhill, hurts. The uneven (snow covered) ground, hurts a LOT. Wasn't expecting that one.
At this point, I have more endurance and energy than I can actually use whilst running, which is unfortunate (and so unusual for me). Running did hurt at times, but all in all, it wasn't so bad. And even though I feel like a frightened dog waiting for the next jolt of pain, it was totally worth it to get outside and actually run in the fresh air.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Bikes and Birthdays!
Tonight is (as some of your may have read on my Twitter or Facebook) most decidedly not a library night. I'm thinking about going to the Coffee House to do some homework, or possibly taking a long hot bath while drinking some red, red wine.
…As you can tell, I've decided to do a little bloggy blog instead of either of those marvelous ideas. Today's blog promises to be an actual update. Here we go!
Last week, I had my 25th Birthday! Holy smokes, folks.
Who has two thumbs and is a quarter-of-a-century old?! This girl!
Originally I was going to go to Chicago to see all my Windy City friends for my birthday, especially because Lizzy was in town that weekend, but I just couldn't make it
Two of my good friends from school - Justin and Samantha (yes, there are two of us) - also had birthdays last week, so we had a big combo-party for all of us and our friends. Did the whole dinner and drinks thing, and somehow stayed up until 4am? Yes. It was tons of fun. Look it! Picture!
Not sure how this happened, but there are actually no pictures (on my camera) of the three birthday kids. So instead you get to see me and some of my girlfriends with our fun girly drinks. Pictures from later in the night are not so good - can't imagine why - so this picture was the first one of the night!
Moving on...
The weather here has been really nice. And there's a lot of turmoil in the middle east. Can anyone guess where I might be going with this? I think it's about time to buy a new bike.
For those of you who don't know, I used to have a fairly okay bike when I lived in Chicago. It was a GIANT bike! And it was pretty, and blue, and my roommate Jeffy helped me pick it out, and actually was kind enough to go pick it up for me! One day, Jef and I rode our bikes to the Whole Foods at Roosevelt. We locked up our bikes (actually, Jef locked up our bikes) on the bike rack in the parking garage, which has video cameras pointed at it. An hour later, we came out with all our whole-food goodness, and - lo, and behold - my bike was gone. I almost cried, but I don't really do that, so instead we called the coppers, who couldn't do anything about it. This is Chicago we're talking about, kids.
After that, I didn't want to buy a new bike. I was pretty tore up about the old one getting stolen and everything. But you know, I think I'm ready now. And since gas prices are likely to rise, and the weather really is quite nice these days, and I live rather close to school anyway, and it's good for the environment, and hearts and stars and unicorns… I think it's about time to start thinking about getting a new bike.
Maybe one like this?
SO! Look for updates on that.
Right.
Thanks for reading, sunshines! <3
…As you can tell, I've decided to do a little bloggy blog instead of either of those marvelous ideas. Today's blog promises to be an actual update. Here we go!
Last week, I had my 25th Birthday! Holy smokes, folks.
Who has two thumbs and is a quarter-of-a-century old?! This girl!
Originally I was going to go to Chicago to see all my Windy City friends for my birthday, especially because Lizzy was in town that weekend, but I just couldn't make it
Two of my good friends from school - Justin and Samantha (yes, there are two of us) - also had birthdays last week, so we had a big combo-party for all of us and our friends. Did the whole dinner and drinks thing, and somehow stayed up until 4am? Yes. It was tons of fun. Look it! Picture!
Not sure how this happened, but there are actually no pictures (on my camera) of the three birthday kids. So instead you get to see me and some of my girlfriends with our fun girly drinks. Pictures from later in the night are not so good - can't imagine why - so this picture was the first one of the night!
Moving on...
The weather here has been really nice. And there's a lot of turmoil in the middle east. Can anyone guess where I might be going with this? I think it's about time to buy a new bike.
For those of you who don't know, I used to have a fairly okay bike when I lived in Chicago. It was a GIANT bike! And it was pretty, and blue, and my roommate Jeffy helped me pick it out, and actually was kind enough to go pick it up for me! One day, Jef and I rode our bikes to the Whole Foods at Roosevelt. We locked up our bikes (actually, Jef locked up our bikes) on the bike rack in the parking garage, which has video cameras pointed at it. An hour later, we came out with all our whole-food goodness, and - lo, and behold - my bike was gone. I almost cried, but I don't really do that, so instead we called the coppers, who couldn't do anything about it. This is Chicago we're talking about, kids.
After that, I didn't want to buy a new bike. I was pretty tore up about the old one getting stolen and everything. But you know, I think I'm ready now. And since gas prices are likely to rise, and the weather really is quite nice these days, and I live rather close to school anyway, and it's good for the environment, and hearts and stars and unicorns… I think it's about time to start thinking about getting a new bike.
Maybe one like this?
SO! Look for updates on that.
Right.
Thanks for reading, sunshines! <3
Monday, February 21, 2011
What's New and What's Good
Here's a fun new concept. A post with two sections talking about What's New and What's Good. Basically I get to talk about whatever I want. Sweet.
What's New: The News
Okay - maybe it's just me, but the news is so... different these days. I'm not talking about the content (which I'm sure we could discuss in length, filling many, many blogposts) but I'm talking about what people wear, and the way they act. What happened to wearing suits on the news?
Who told you it was okay to wear shiny knee high boots on national news?! Who said that you could set your cell phone next to you on your stupid couch and everyone could watch it light up while you get phone calls and text messages - while you're doing your job?! WHO did your makeup?! It's not flattering. Who picked that atrocious tie? The pattern makes our eyes hurt. What's with the gaudy jewelry? Don't you people get paid a lot?!
This is primarily aimed toward women anchors on the news, but it applies to men sometimes as well. Call me conservative, but I have a hard time taking you seriously when you're reporting national news in the same outfit that an office manager wears to work, or a 20-year-old wears to the bar, or the class clown wears to his first ever job interview.
This is especially aimed at whoever is dressing our news anchors. Let's be honest: they're not dressing themselves.
Please be professional. K, thanks.
What's Good: Smosh!
Smosh is my new favorite YouTube comedy sensation. They are by no means "new," but they definitely fall into our "good" category! Smosh consists of two guys - Ian and Anthony - who did lots of sketch comedy videos, a few ironic music videos, and some generally funny blogposts. They have a YouTube channel, as well as their own website with games, out takes, extras, and uncensored versions of their videos.
Here's one of my favorite Smosh videos on YouTube:
And a link to their own website: Smosh
And that concludes our first ever game of "What's New and What's Good." Thanks for reading, sunshines.
What's New: The News
Okay - maybe it's just me, but the news is so... different these days. I'm not talking about the content (which I'm sure we could discuss in length, filling many, many blogposts) but I'm talking about what people wear, and the way they act. What happened to wearing suits on the news?
Who told you it was okay to wear shiny knee high boots on national news?! Who said that you could set your cell phone next to you on your stupid couch and everyone could watch it light up while you get phone calls and text messages - while you're doing your job?! WHO did your makeup?! It's not flattering. Who picked that atrocious tie? The pattern makes our eyes hurt. What's with the gaudy jewelry? Don't you people get paid a lot?!
This is primarily aimed toward women anchors on the news, but it applies to men sometimes as well. Call me conservative, but I have a hard time taking you seriously when you're reporting national news in the same outfit that an office manager wears to work, or a 20-year-old wears to the bar, or the class clown wears to his first ever job interview.
This is especially aimed at whoever is dressing our news anchors. Let's be honest: they're not dressing themselves.
Please be professional. K, thanks.
What's Good: Smosh!
Smosh is my new favorite YouTube comedy sensation. They are by no means "new," but they definitely fall into our "good" category! Smosh consists of two guys - Ian and Anthony - who did lots of sketch comedy videos, a few ironic music videos, and some generally funny blogposts. They have a YouTube channel, as well as their own website with games, out takes, extras, and uncensored versions of their videos.
Here's one of my favorite Smosh videos on YouTube:
And a link to their own website: Smosh
And that concludes our first ever game of "What's New and What's Good." Thanks for reading, sunshines.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Here's something we haven't done in a while…
UPDATE!
Well, it's been 3 months and 22 days since my last update. What's new, you ask? Well… Not a whole heck of a lot! Here's what ya missed:
In November, we had Thanksgiving… mmmm turkey!
In December, there was some craziness called "finals," although, lest you be confused, let me explain that these are not, in fact, "final" anythings. The tests I took in December were midterms for my classes, which are all full year classes. They count for 20-30% of my total grade for the year. (Except Torts, the only class in which I received a real grade, which I suppose you might say counts for half my grade… ugh, too much to explain.) Finals went pretty well, but we didn't actually find that out until January, so read on!
Also in December, I was home for my brother-in-law's birthday for the first time EVAR!
And of course, we celebrated Christmas! I got some awesome Arsenal gear from my dad, and some sweet SmartWool socks in my stocking. Plus, fun family times, and more mmmm… food!
January… I started getting bored being at home and having nothing to do. I thought we'd have more assignments over the break, but no. I read three books for fun (To Kill A Mocking Bird, Eating the Cheshire Cat, and Roanoke Island) and I worked out at the Rec on City Campus for the first time. Big steps.
Then, school was supposed to start.
But we had a terrible ice storm!
And school was canceled.
For TWO days!!
What is this, Texas?
Anyway, I finally got my "grades" on the second day. We get "quartiles" so we find out if we are in the 1st (best), 2nd, 3rd, or 4th quartile in each class. I did pretty well in Torts, and my quartiles were acceptable, so … yay?
I also started a new class this semester - Criminal Law! Everyone hates it and says it's super boring, but I'm actually enjoying it. Maybe it's the change of pace. It can't be because I want to be a criminal lawyer, because I really, really don't! I swear.
And now it's February. (Already?!) I've turned in a memo, started working on a brief, and need to begin practicing for oral arguments soon. Doesn't that sound so… lawyerly?
As you all should know, my birthday is coming up on Friday… I'm going to be the BIG 2-5! Holy smokes, folks!
And... that's all. My life still more or less consists of class, homework, and sleep. Yep - you didn't miss much!
Love <3
Samantha
P.S. Check out my favorite new artist/producer Kurt Schneider, and his piano playing, song singing friend, Sam Tsui:
P.P.S. If there are other things about my life that you'd like to hear about, leave a comment, and let me know! :)
Well, it's been 3 months and 22 days since my last update. What's new, you ask? Well… Not a whole heck of a lot! Here's what ya missed:
In November, we had Thanksgiving… mmmm turkey!
In December, there was some craziness called "finals," although, lest you be confused, let me explain that these are not, in fact, "final" anythings. The tests I took in December were midterms for my classes, which are all full year classes. They count for 20-30% of my total grade for the year. (Except Torts, the only class in which I received a real grade, which I suppose you might say counts for half my grade… ugh, too much to explain.) Finals went pretty well, but we didn't actually find that out until January, so read on!
Also in December, I was home for my brother-in-law's birthday for the first time EVAR!
And of course, we celebrated Christmas! I got some awesome Arsenal gear from my dad, and some sweet SmartWool socks in my stocking. Plus, fun family times, and more mmmm… food!
January… I started getting bored being at home and having nothing to do. I thought we'd have more assignments over the break, but no. I read three books for fun (To Kill A Mocking Bird, Eating the Cheshire Cat, and Roanoke Island) and I worked out at the Rec on City Campus for the first time. Big steps.
Then, school was supposed to start.
But we had a terrible ice storm!
And school was canceled.
For TWO days!!
What is this, Texas?
Anyway, I finally got my "grades" on the second day. We get "quartiles" so we find out if we are in the 1st (best), 2nd, 3rd, or 4th quartile in each class. I did pretty well in Torts, and my quartiles were acceptable, so … yay?
I also started a new class this semester - Criminal Law! Everyone hates it and says it's super boring, but I'm actually enjoying it. Maybe it's the change of pace. It can't be because I want to be a criminal lawyer, because I really, really don't! I swear.
And now it's February. (Already?!) I've turned in a memo, started working on a brief, and need to begin practicing for oral arguments soon. Doesn't that sound so… lawyerly?
As you all should know, my birthday is coming up on Friday… I'm going to be the BIG 2-5! Holy smokes, folks!
And... that's all. My life still more or less consists of class, homework, and sleep. Yep - you didn't miss much!
Love <3
Samantha
P.S. Check out my favorite new artist/producer Kurt Schneider, and his piano playing, song singing friend, Sam Tsui:
P.P.S. If there are other things about my life that you'd like to hear about, leave a comment, and let me know! :)
Sunday, October 24, 2010
And now, the moment you've all been waiting for...
Hopefully everyone realized that my last blog post was a joke... Brought to you by the always exciting, occasionally inappropriate, comedic stylings of Miss Lizzy.
Anyway... I know it's been a terribly, horrendously, inexcusably long time since I last updated, but ... I've been busy? Yeah. We'll go with that.
Things here have worked themselves into a pretty steady routine. I go to class, go to the gym, go to the library to study, go home and go to bed. Repeat. On the weekends, I have a bit of free time. I try to balance it between friends and family and my own sanity. It seems to be working thus far.
I'm still very much enjoying school. I have more homework now than I did at the beginning, but that was expected. I've made some good friends who like to study in the library just as much as I do! Makes it much easier and much more fun to study in the evenings. And between classes. And on the weekends before football games and after church and pretty much any moment that I can't come up with a legitimate reason to not be studying, like sleep or class...
Life in Lincoln is an adjustment after 6 years in Chicago. I miss things I didn't think I'd miss. Especially the things I was only just starting to discover before I left. But Lincoln has great football, and my parents have great cable, which means I get to watch great soccer on a fairly regular basis, too. (By the way - this was a GREAT weekend for college football and English soccer. Huskers beat OK State, OK was pummeled by Mizzou (eat it Sooners!) and Iowa State beat Texas; AND Arsenal beat Man City, moving up to 2nd in the League! Oh to be a Gooner!)
Haven't got a whole lot else to say... This next month and a half is going to be hectic and probably pretty rough for me. Lots of homework, our first real research assignment, the beginning of the career search (officially begins Nov 1), and studying for finals... So I'll close with some pictures, per reader request.
These are some of my friends from the law school. This is Siobhan, Caitlyn and myself at Barristers' Ball (aka Law Prom).
This is a picture of the LHS Marching Band getting ready to perform at the Lincoln High Marching Band Competition at Beechner Field. My younger brother plays snare in the marching band so I've been going to some of this competitions this year.
You wanna know where I've been spending all my time, right? I knew you did, so I included some pictures just for you!
This is a picture of the lovely Nebraska Capital, located in the Star City (Lincoln). They've got some fun nicknames for this baby, but I can't put them online, so ask me later and we'll make "That's what she said" jokes.
And here's the Law School and library. The first picture is the front(ish) of the law building. Attached to the law school is the law library, where I spend a great deal of time. The second picture is the back of the library. The giant glass windows are the Reading Room, in which you CANNOT talk or listen to headphones. The smaller windows are some of the study rooms we like to hang out in.
Finally, I pay homage to some of my fave sport teams.
First, is my current school and the great flagship school of the "Good Life" state - the Cornhuskers! Below is a picture of our lovely new QB, Taylor Martinez. He's kinda hit or miss, had a rough go of it against South Dakota State (let's not talk about it), and Texas (ditto), but looked pretty good this past weekend against OK State. Plus, he's a red-shirt freshman, so he's got time to grow into it. T*Magic!
And last, but never, ever least, are my favorite boys in red, currently 2nd in their league, Arsene's Red Army, the unstoppable Gooners! Here's a picture of Fabregas, Chamakh, Nasri, Sagna and Arshavin dogpiling on Song after he made the second goal of the game against Man City this morning. <3 Plus a nice shot of the final score.
That's all. Enjoy!
Samantha.
Anyway... I know it's been a terribly, horrendously, inexcusably long time since I last updated, but ... I've been busy? Yeah. We'll go with that.
Things here have worked themselves into a pretty steady routine. I go to class, go to the gym, go to the library to study, go home and go to bed. Repeat. On the weekends, I have a bit of free time. I try to balance it between friends and family and my own sanity. It seems to be working thus far.
I'm still very much enjoying school. I have more homework now than I did at the beginning, but that was expected. I've made some good friends who like to study in the library just as much as I do! Makes it much easier and much more fun to study in the evenings. And between classes. And on the weekends before football games and after church and pretty much any moment that I can't come up with a legitimate reason to not be studying, like sleep or class...
Life in Lincoln is an adjustment after 6 years in Chicago. I miss things I didn't think I'd miss. Especially the things I was only just starting to discover before I left. But Lincoln has great football, and my parents have great cable, which means I get to watch great soccer on a fairly regular basis, too. (By the way - this was a GREAT weekend for college football and English soccer. Huskers beat OK State, OK was pummeled by Mizzou (eat it Sooners!) and Iowa State beat Texas; AND Arsenal beat Man City, moving up to 2nd in the League! Oh to be a Gooner!)
Haven't got a whole lot else to say... This next month and a half is going to be hectic and probably pretty rough for me. Lots of homework, our first real research assignment, the beginning of the career search (officially begins Nov 1), and studying for finals... So I'll close with some pictures, per reader request.
These are some of my friends from the law school. This is Siobhan, Caitlyn and myself at Barristers' Ball (aka Law Prom).
This is a picture of the LHS Marching Band getting ready to perform at the Lincoln High Marching Band Competition at Beechner Field. My younger brother plays snare in the marching band so I've been going to some of this competitions this year.
You wanna know where I've been spending all my time, right? I knew you did, so I included some pictures just for you!
This is a picture of the lovely Nebraska Capital, located in the Star City (Lincoln). They've got some fun nicknames for this baby, but I can't put them online, so ask me later and we'll make "That's what she said" jokes.
And here's the Law School and library. The first picture is the front(ish) of the law building. Attached to the law school is the law library, where I spend a great deal of time. The second picture is the back of the library. The giant glass windows are the Reading Room, in which you CANNOT talk or listen to headphones. The smaller windows are some of the study rooms we like to hang out in.
Finally, I pay homage to some of my fave sport teams.
First, is my current school and the great flagship school of the "Good Life" state - the Cornhuskers! Below is a picture of our lovely new QB, Taylor Martinez. He's kinda hit or miss, had a rough go of it against South Dakota State (let's not talk about it), and Texas (ditto), but looked pretty good this past weekend against OK State. Plus, he's a red-shirt freshman, so he's got time to grow into it. T*Magic!
And last, but never, ever least, are my favorite boys in red, currently 2nd in their league, Arsene's Red Army, the unstoppable Gooners! Here's a picture of Fabregas, Chamakh, Nasri, Sagna and Arshavin dogpiling on Song after he made the second goal of the game against Man City this morning. <3 Plus a nice shot of the final score.
That's all. Enjoy!
Samantha.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Pink Resume Paper
It's been a while, dear readers, but I'm back for another entry! A lot has happened...I met a boy. Well, I should say a man--compared to him, everyone else has been a boy. I guess I should really start with how we met. I'm going to leave names out, just for privacy sake.
In my International Criminal Law class, there is this incredible opportunity to intern for the professor, Professor C. The whole class is basically vying for that Professor C's attention through excellent marks and answering smartly in class just to get a spot in the internship. Probably because as an intern you actually get to participate in a criminal defense suit! Anyway, they *finally* announced who made it a couple of weeks ago and I made the cut!
That's where I met E. E works as Professor C's associate and together they're working on a case. I can't say too much about the case because it hasn't gone to trial yet, however, what the press releases have stated (and I can share with you) is that the (legendary) fitness instructor B has been accused of murdering her husband. I am so ready to assist and find out the truth behind this, but nervous about being responsible for such a big case so early on.
I'd go on more about E, but I'm afraid I'll jinx things by discussing them here! And it'd be weird if he found this posting. Let's just say he looks kind of like this:
I'm more than a bit smitten.
So you'll see that I've been a tad busy, and I do apologize for taking so long to update. I'm not sure when my next chance to update will be as Professor C has been working us quite hard despite our busy course load. It might just be me, but it seems like he's working E and I harder than the the rest. He's also been giving me weird eyes sometimes. Probably just my imagination!
Time to go get my nails taken care of and catch up with my manicurist. I'll catch up with you all later!
In my International Criminal Law class, there is this incredible opportunity to intern for the professor, Professor C. The whole class is basically vying for that Professor C's attention through excellent marks and answering smartly in class just to get a spot in the internship. Probably because as an intern you actually get to participate in a criminal defense suit! Anyway, they *finally* announced who made it a couple of weeks ago and I made the cut!
That's where I met E. E works as Professor C's associate and together they're working on a case. I can't say too much about the case because it hasn't gone to trial yet, however, what the press releases have stated (and I can share with you) is that the (legendary) fitness instructor B has been accused of murdering her husband. I am so ready to assist and find out the truth behind this, but nervous about being responsible for such a big case so early on.
I'd go on more about E, but I'm afraid I'll jinx things by discussing them here! And it'd be weird if he found this posting. Let's just say he looks kind of like this:
I'm more than a bit smitten.
So you'll see that I've been a tad busy, and I do apologize for taking so long to update. I'm not sure when my next chance to update will be as Professor C has been working us quite hard despite our busy course load. It might just be me, but it seems like he's working E and I harder than the the rest. He's also been giving me weird eyes sometimes. Probably just my imagination!
Time to go get my nails taken care of and catch up with my manicurist. I'll catch up with you all later!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
One Week Down... Three Years to Go.
Well the first week of law school has come and gone and -- surprise, surprise -- I'm still here!
It was a whirlwind of a week and I really enjoyed it. I love my classes (except for maybe Legal Research and Writing…) and my classmates seem interesting and intelligent. I don't want to bore you all with the details, but I would have to say that, so far, my favorite classes are… never mind. I can't pick any of them as favorites. I'm sure I'll change my mind about this later, but for now, I really enjoy my classes and my professors and my classmates.
This past week has consisted of about 13 hours actually in class, at least 20 hours of reading/studying, lots of coffee, many late nights and an abundance of my favorite tea drink - Hot Fuji Snow. I am finding time for fun and relaxing, and I'm still working out - which I've heard on more than one occasion is really important (like I didn't already know that, hah).
We've had a lot of car drama this past week, too. I knew I'd have to buy a car when I moved home, but I wanted to get all my financial aid ducks in a row before committing to anything too seriously. My brother also turned 16 and finally got his license this month. As a result, we had 4 drivers in the house and only 2 cars. This is the first time in a very long time that I can remember drivers outnumbering vehicles in my household. It was okay during the summer when Michael and I weren't doing much, but we knew we'd need to get things figured out before the start of the school year.
Well, last Friday night, the radiator in the Jeep cracked, which makes the Jeep completely un-drivable because it overheats super fast. My poor mom was driving when it happened, but she got the Jeep towed and made it home just fine. The Jeep was then sitting in the shop all day Saturday, all day Sunday, all day Monday (when they actually opened, could look at the Jeep and figure out what was wrong) and most of Tuesday (when they actually got to fix it). This left us with 4 drivers, 1 car and four very different schedules on Monday and Tuesday.
It was a bit of scramble to get everyone dropped off at their appropriate places of work or school, but we managed. And mom and I went shopping for new cars! Mom settled on a bright red Pontiac Vibe, and I found a cute little blue Chevy Cavalier (very similar to the Corsica which we were all now sharing and would eventually be inherited by Michael). By Friday afternoon, the cars were ours and the Jeep was sufficiently repaired to be put back into commission. So now we've got 4 cars for 4 drivers and everyone is quite happy (although I think my mom is totally freaked out by Michael driving around Lincoln on his own…)!
PICTURES.....
Sam's Car!!!!
That was my drama for the week. I know - I live a terribly exciting life, right? :) I'm quite content to have such minimal drama these days. School is enough work as it is, without adding drama llamas on top.
Random Notes of Interest:
(1) I'm cutting back on dairy, because this is supposed to help reduce the symptoms of allergies (ask Johnny for more info…)
(2) Amy and Ty's puppy, Ezra, is doing awesome. He is the cutest little guy and he is SO smart. He is the star of his puppy class, of course. I'd expect nothing less of someone from our family!
(3) I love Lincoln. It is really a beautiful little town and it is so happily green and windy these days. If you're not here, you're missing out.
(4) Can't wait for my upcoming trips to Chicago and Colorado. I miss you out-of-staters and I hope I get to see some of you within the next couple of months!
Love,
Samantha
It was a whirlwind of a week and I really enjoyed it. I love my classes (except for maybe Legal Research and Writing…) and my classmates seem interesting and intelligent. I don't want to bore you all with the details, but I would have to say that, so far, my favorite classes are… never mind. I can't pick any of them as favorites. I'm sure I'll change my mind about this later, but for now, I really enjoy my classes and my professors and my classmates.
This past week has consisted of about 13 hours actually in class, at least 20 hours of reading/studying, lots of coffee, many late nights and an abundance of my favorite tea drink - Hot Fuji Snow. I am finding time for fun and relaxing, and I'm still working out - which I've heard on more than one occasion is really important (like I didn't already know that, hah).
We've had a lot of car drama this past week, too. I knew I'd have to buy a car when I moved home, but I wanted to get all my financial aid ducks in a row before committing to anything too seriously. My brother also turned 16 and finally got his license this month. As a result, we had 4 drivers in the house and only 2 cars. This is the first time in a very long time that I can remember drivers outnumbering vehicles in my household. It was okay during the summer when Michael and I weren't doing much, but we knew we'd need to get things figured out before the start of the school year.
Well, last Friday night, the radiator in the Jeep cracked, which makes the Jeep completely un-drivable because it overheats super fast. My poor mom was driving when it happened, but she got the Jeep towed and made it home just fine. The Jeep was then sitting in the shop all day Saturday, all day Sunday, all day Monday (when they actually opened, could look at the Jeep and figure out what was wrong) and most of Tuesday (when they actually got to fix it). This left us with 4 drivers, 1 car and four very different schedules on Monday and Tuesday.
It was a bit of scramble to get everyone dropped off at their appropriate places of work or school, but we managed. And mom and I went shopping for new cars! Mom settled on a bright red Pontiac Vibe, and I found a cute little blue Chevy Cavalier (very similar to the Corsica which we were all now sharing and would eventually be inherited by Michael). By Friday afternoon, the cars were ours and the Jeep was sufficiently repaired to be put back into commission. So now we've got 4 cars for 4 drivers and everyone is quite happy (although I think my mom is totally freaked out by Michael driving around Lincoln on his own…)!
PICTURES.....
Mom's Car
That was my drama for the week. I know - I live a terribly exciting life, right? :) I'm quite content to have such minimal drama these days. School is enough work as it is, without adding drama llamas on top.
Random Notes of Interest:
(1) I'm cutting back on dairy, because this is supposed to help reduce the symptoms of allergies (ask Johnny for more info…)
(2) Amy and Ty's puppy, Ezra, is doing awesome. He is the cutest little guy and he is SO smart. He is the star of his puppy class, of course. I'd expect nothing less of someone from our family!
(3) I love Lincoln. It is really a beautiful little town and it is so happily green and windy these days. If you're not here, you're missing out.
(4) Can't wait for my upcoming trips to Chicago and Colorado. I miss you out-of-staters and I hope I get to see some of you within the next couple of months!
Love,
Samantha
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Orientation
Orientation for Law School was preceded by an optional session on "Reading Like a Lawyer" on Wednesday. I decided that since I was in Lincoln already and since I don't have a job or anything else pressing or productive going on, I should probably attend this session. It was interesting and informative, although not as exciting as some of the other sessions I have since attended. I got to see my Civil Procedures professor in action, as well as Dean Pierce, whom I must say I really enjoy. I wasn't feeling particularly social at this session, so I pretty much just left afterward.
Later on Wednesday night I went to the ice cream social for students who had signed up for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program, which pairs a 1L student with a returning 2L or 3L student. I was supposed to be paired with at 3L named Brooke, but she was unable to attend, so I was randomly paired up with this guy Stephen, a 2L, whose "Little Brother" also did not show up. I had a good time talking with Stephen about law school, sports (soccer!!! he's an Aston Villa fan - boo!), and other random stuff; and he was nice enough to introduce me to some of his friends. As it turned out, his friends were headed out for a drink at Risky's after the ice cream social and they invited me and a couple of other 1Ls along. It was great to get to meet real law students and see that they are regular people just like me. They have fun, they have jobs, they struggle in classes, they go out, they hate some professors and love others (and they don't always agree on which professors fall into which categories). They gossip and shop and make plans to go out for pizza. It's just good to see that you really can still have a social life while in school!
The first day of Orientation was a whirlwind. We had to have our pictures taken in the morning - these will be attached to our transcripts for the next 3 years (no pressure, right?) - and then we got to talk with students from various student organizations. I'm thinking I will join a law fraternity (they have a massive compilation of outlines for every class), the Student Bar Association (you get a good discount in the bookstore), the Women's Law Caucus (they have great parties and networking), and the International Law Association (they help with study abroad). After this we had a welcome from Chief Justice Heavican of the Nebraska Supreme Court, as well as some other people. The Dean spoke briefly and the associate dean (Dean Pierce, my favorite for sure) spoke at length of academic integrity and various rules that 1Ls are expected to follow. According to the ABA, 1Ls are not allowed to engage in any career oriented activities until Nov 1, so the dean from the career center could only give a very brief talk to us, but there will be a lot more of that to come! I then had lunch with my academic advisor, who is my Property professor for the fall. He's a pretty interesting guy, but he makes a lot of baseball analogies that I don't really get…
Then we had a big ethics session with Chief Justice Riley of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. He gave a kind of somber speech about how the law profession is viewed as lacking in integrity as of late, and how we should strive to change that. He paraphrased another judge (can't remember who, sorry) when he said we should respect the law, but never worship the law. The law is not the highest power of the land. Rather, it is the lowest common denominator, the lowest acceptable standard of conduct; and we should all hold ourselves to something higher. It reminded me of something from Law & Order (omg) when they said we should not just uphold the Letter of the Law, but the Spirit of the Law. Anyway, after this, we broke out into smaller groups to discuss various ethical hypotheticals. My group was led by Chief Justice Heavican - a pretty cool guy who was appointed by Clinton. He had great questions for us that would completely shift the paradigm in which the hypothetical might currently stand. If he wasn't such an excellent judge, he could be a great teacher.
Day two of Orientation was quite a bit shorter. We had a brief overview of the library, and then we got to meet our "registration groups". These are groups of 18 students with whom I'll have all of my classes. Each of the classes have a mix of different registration groups, so you should have at least one class with every other 1L. I don't really know my group very well yet, but I'm excited to get to know them. I hope I like them, since I have to spend several hours each day for the next 9 months with them… :) We ended the day with a lecture from our Legal Writing professor. It was kinda boring, but it was good to learn to brief cases and see what exactly they're looking for.
Later that night, the Student Bar Association hosted a "Back to School" party at The Alley. Lots of people went out and we had a good time. It was a lot of fun and I met a lot of new people, especially older students. The students at UNL are all so nice. Everyone wants to give you their outlines and their briefs and their advice. It's really reassuring. I'm not sure I would particularly enjoy one of those really competitive environments where students hide books and stuff. That's just crazy.
Looks like I'm getting better at this whole blogging on a regular basis thing… I'm headed out for the evening now - going to watch the No Coast Derby Girls for the first time with a bunch of girl friends. Should be quite exciting! Apparently there is a 2L who plays on one of the teams.
So I will probably update you all again on Monday-ish. By then, I should have completed my first day of law school and I'll give you some fun updates about my car shopping experiences!
Samantha
Later on Wednesday night I went to the ice cream social for students who had signed up for the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program, which pairs a 1L student with a returning 2L or 3L student. I was supposed to be paired with at 3L named Brooke, but she was unable to attend, so I was randomly paired up with this guy Stephen, a 2L, whose "Little Brother" also did not show up. I had a good time talking with Stephen about law school, sports (soccer!!! he's an Aston Villa fan - boo!), and other random stuff; and he was nice enough to introduce me to some of his friends. As it turned out, his friends were headed out for a drink at Risky's after the ice cream social and they invited me and a couple of other 1Ls along. It was great to get to meet real law students and see that they are regular people just like me. They have fun, they have jobs, they struggle in classes, they go out, they hate some professors and love others (and they don't always agree on which professors fall into which categories). They gossip and shop and make plans to go out for pizza. It's just good to see that you really can still have a social life while in school!
The first day of Orientation was a whirlwind. We had to have our pictures taken in the morning - these will be attached to our transcripts for the next 3 years (no pressure, right?) - and then we got to talk with students from various student organizations. I'm thinking I will join a law fraternity (they have a massive compilation of outlines for every class), the Student Bar Association (you get a good discount in the bookstore), the Women's Law Caucus (they have great parties and networking), and the International Law Association (they help with study abroad). After this we had a welcome from Chief Justice Heavican of the Nebraska Supreme Court, as well as some other people. The Dean spoke briefly and the associate dean (Dean Pierce, my favorite for sure) spoke at length of academic integrity and various rules that 1Ls are expected to follow. According to the ABA, 1Ls are not allowed to engage in any career oriented activities until Nov 1, so the dean from the career center could only give a very brief talk to us, but there will be a lot more of that to come! I then had lunch with my academic advisor, who is my Property professor for the fall. He's a pretty interesting guy, but he makes a lot of baseball analogies that I don't really get…
Then we had a big ethics session with Chief Justice Riley of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. He gave a kind of somber speech about how the law profession is viewed as lacking in integrity as of late, and how we should strive to change that. He paraphrased another judge (can't remember who, sorry) when he said we should respect the law, but never worship the law. The law is not the highest power of the land. Rather, it is the lowest common denominator, the lowest acceptable standard of conduct; and we should all hold ourselves to something higher. It reminded me of something from Law & Order (omg) when they said we should not just uphold the Letter of the Law, but the Spirit of the Law. Anyway, after this, we broke out into smaller groups to discuss various ethical hypotheticals. My group was led by Chief Justice Heavican - a pretty cool guy who was appointed by Clinton. He had great questions for us that would completely shift the paradigm in which the hypothetical might currently stand. If he wasn't such an excellent judge, he could be a great teacher.
Day two of Orientation was quite a bit shorter. We had a brief overview of the library, and then we got to meet our "registration groups". These are groups of 18 students with whom I'll have all of my classes. Each of the classes have a mix of different registration groups, so you should have at least one class with every other 1L. I don't really know my group very well yet, but I'm excited to get to know them. I hope I like them, since I have to spend several hours each day for the next 9 months with them… :) We ended the day with a lecture from our Legal Writing professor. It was kinda boring, but it was good to learn to brief cases and see what exactly they're looking for.
Later that night, the Student Bar Association hosted a "Back to School" party at The Alley. Lots of people went out and we had a good time. It was a lot of fun and I met a lot of new people, especially older students. The students at UNL are all so nice. Everyone wants to give you their outlines and their briefs and their advice. It's really reassuring. I'm not sure I would particularly enjoy one of those really competitive environments where students hide books and stuff. That's just crazy.
Looks like I'm getting better at this whole blogging on a regular basis thing… I'm headed out for the evening now - going to watch the No Coast Derby Girls for the first time with a bunch of girl friends. Should be quite exciting! Apparently there is a 2L who plays on one of the teams.
So I will probably update you all again on Monday-ish. By then, I should have completed my first day of law school and I'll give you some fun updates about my car shopping experiences!
Samantha
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Colorado is calling...
Sorry it's been a while since I last updated my bloggy blog. Things have been a bit busy here, and I'll tell you why...
When we last left off, I had just finished telling you all of my fantastic family trip to the cabins at Platte River State Park, and of my growing excitement and anticipation for both my trip to Colorado and the beginning of my law school career. As I write to you now, I have returned from Colorado and just finished my first official day of Orientation at law school.
Let's start with Colorado… I went to Colorado with my best friend Mikayla to visit our other best friend Whitney who recently gave birth to the beautiful baby girl Zia. Mikayla and I drove to CO, a trip I know many of you would consider quite boring, but there's a reason I"m in Nebraska and it's because I have a very great love for wide open spaces, rolling hills, corn fields, soy bean fields, sunflower fields, open blue skies and decrepit windmills. That pretty much describes the landscape for about 6.5 hours of the 8 hour trip. Nebraska is a truly beautiful state, especially in the Spring and Summer times. Colorado is, of course, a lovely state as well. I always enjoy the mountains and the canyons and the multiple levels of ear poppery.
Our visit with Whitney and Zia (and Joe - Zia's daddy, and Chris - Zia's uncle) was pretty much fantastic - definitely one of the best trips I've had in a long time. It was great to see my best friend again. I think sometimes we forget how important it can be to actually see each other - to hear laughter, see the eyes smile, give real hugs. It's refreshing and nourishing to the soul (excessively descriptive, I know, but so true). Zia is such a cute and perfect little baby girl. She has the most beautiful and infectious smile! Toward the end of our visit, I could tickle her plump little cheeks and her little bitty chin and she would smile in the most adorable way. She is also a very blessed little girl, to have such loving and devoted parents, and an uncle who obviously cares very much for her. That house is full of love.
We didn't do much while we were in Colorado, besides fawn over Zia, catch up with Whit, and get to know Joe and Chris. Mikayla and I took a quick trip to Estes Park to see the canyon, the mountains and the Stanley Hotel (which The Shining is based on). Whitney, Mikayla and I also went shopping in downtown Fort Collins, took Zia and the dogs (Balou and Nanook) for walks, and on Saturday we took a big trip to the river (minus Uncle Chris). The river was pretty excellent - there were lots of families with dogs there and it was just a really relaxing and beautiful place to spend a few hours and get some sun.
It was incredibly difficult to leave Fort Collins. I knew that I would be returning to Lincoln to face the regimented ferocity of law school, while I was leaving behind a world of natural beauty, outdoor excitement and home full of loving friends. More than once, I wanted to turn the car around and bid "adieu" to Lincoln and law school. I think this kind of panic and uncertainty is common among 1Ls. I've spoken with a few others already who are nervous, intimidated, completely unsure of what we are attempting to throw ourselves, head first, into. But the car moved steadily east, away from rock climbing, camping and my cute baby Zia, and toward a different kind of adventure.
And so I write to you today from a favorite coffee shop of mine in the big small-town that is Lincoln, Nebraska. I've finished my first day of Orientation, in addition to some other pre-Orientation events, and I've briefed one case and will commence the reading and briefing of another once I finish this blog. I'm excited for law school. Sometimes I forget my own ambitions, until a zealous law professor raves passionately about his love of the law, or bright and eager 2Ls chat about their Law Review articles, or my orientation welcome is performed by the Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court, or the Chief Justice of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals talks to me about ethics. Oh yes, it's been a fun couple of days. More about this on Saturday - I promise!
Love you all,
Samantha.
P.S. If anyone is curious about my Hot Fuji Snow, it's the awesome drink I get at the CoHo with mint tea, cream and vanilla. Delish!
When we last left off, I had just finished telling you all of my fantastic family trip to the cabins at Platte River State Park, and of my growing excitement and anticipation for both my trip to Colorado and the beginning of my law school career. As I write to you now, I have returned from Colorado and just finished my first official day of Orientation at law school.
Let's start with Colorado… I went to Colorado with my best friend Mikayla to visit our other best friend Whitney who recently gave birth to the beautiful baby girl Zia. Mikayla and I drove to CO, a trip I know many of you would consider quite boring, but there's a reason I"m in Nebraska and it's because I have a very great love for wide open spaces, rolling hills, corn fields, soy bean fields, sunflower fields, open blue skies and decrepit windmills. That pretty much describes the landscape for about 6.5 hours of the 8 hour trip. Nebraska is a truly beautiful state, especially in the Spring and Summer times. Colorado is, of course, a lovely state as well. I always enjoy the mountains and the canyons and the multiple levels of ear poppery.
Our visit with Whitney and Zia (and Joe - Zia's daddy, and Chris - Zia's uncle) was pretty much fantastic - definitely one of the best trips I've had in a long time. It was great to see my best friend again. I think sometimes we forget how important it can be to actually see each other - to hear laughter, see the eyes smile, give real hugs. It's refreshing and nourishing to the soul (excessively descriptive, I know, but so true). Zia is such a cute and perfect little baby girl. She has the most beautiful and infectious smile! Toward the end of our visit, I could tickle her plump little cheeks and her little bitty chin and she would smile in the most adorable way. She is also a very blessed little girl, to have such loving and devoted parents, and an uncle who obviously cares very much for her. That house is full of love.
We didn't do much while we were in Colorado, besides fawn over Zia, catch up with Whit, and get to know Joe and Chris. Mikayla and I took a quick trip to Estes Park to see the canyon, the mountains and the Stanley Hotel (which The Shining is based on). Whitney, Mikayla and I also went shopping in downtown Fort Collins, took Zia and the dogs (Balou and Nanook) for walks, and on Saturday we took a big trip to the river (minus Uncle Chris). The river was pretty excellent - there were lots of families with dogs there and it was just a really relaxing and beautiful place to spend a few hours and get some sun.
It was incredibly difficult to leave Fort Collins. I knew that I would be returning to Lincoln to face the regimented ferocity of law school, while I was leaving behind a world of natural beauty, outdoor excitement and home full of loving friends. More than once, I wanted to turn the car around and bid "adieu" to Lincoln and law school. I think this kind of panic and uncertainty is common among 1Ls. I've spoken with a few others already who are nervous, intimidated, completely unsure of what we are attempting to throw ourselves, head first, into. But the car moved steadily east, away from rock climbing, camping and my cute baby Zia, and toward a different kind of adventure.
And so I write to you today from a favorite coffee shop of mine in the big small-town that is Lincoln, Nebraska. I've finished my first day of Orientation, in addition to some other pre-Orientation events, and I've briefed one case and will commence the reading and briefing of another once I finish this blog. I'm excited for law school. Sometimes I forget my own ambitions, until a zealous law professor raves passionately about his love of the law, or bright and eager 2Ls chat about their Law Review articles, or my orientation welcome is performed by the Chief Justice of the Nebraska Supreme Court, or the Chief Justice of the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals talks to me about ethics. Oh yes, it's been a fun couple of days. More about this on Saturday - I promise!
Love you all,
Samantha.
P.S. If anyone is curious about my Hot Fuji Snow, it's the awesome drink I get at the CoHo with mint tea, cream and vanilla. Delish!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
We Are Family
I have been living at home for a little over two weeks now and I think we are all starting to adjust to my presence here. Sort of. :)
About a week after my arrival, my family hosted the 76th Annual Jambor Family Reunion. For those of you who aren't related, this is a reunion on my mother's side consisting of my grandfather's siblings, their kids (my mom), their kids' kids (me) and, their kids' grandkids (my cousins' children) and, in some family lines, their great grandkids! It's kind of a big deal. This year we made key chains with a picture of my grandpa's parents at their wedding. Also, my mom has a charcoal portraits of my grandpa's grandparents - both sets. She is big on genealogy and it is very cool.
After this reunion, we always take a family vacation with my aunts and uncles and cousins to some cabins at Platte River State Park. We stay out at the cabins for a week and generally do a lot of nothing, play cards, go to the water park, and now that we're all a bit older, drink. This year, some of my cousins played paintball! They have some really lovely red welts surrounded by gorgeous purple bruises. I opted to stay home for that outing.
To be honest though, vacation is getting kind of boring. Or rather, time off is getting boring. I miss working and having things to do. I've been doing a lot of reading for leisure and watching lots of soccer (so glad my parents have cable). And I'm very much looking forward to my next trip out of state - I'm headed to Colorado with one of my childhood friends, Mikayla, to visit another old friend, Whitney, who just had a beautiful baby girl in June!
As soon as I get back form that trip, I've got three days "off" and then it's time for Orientation. We go all day Thursday and Friday (August 19-20), but there's also an optional session on Wednesday, which I intend to attend. Also, in the next few weeks I need to buy a new (used) car and tomorrow I'll be ordering a new computer - a MacBook Pro! Super excited for that.
Oh and some updates since my last entry: (1) Michael passed his driving test and is now a licensed and legal driver. Please be safe and cautious when driving the streets of Lincoln!! (2) My foot is not healed. Super lame. Taking more time off from running.
For now, I'm kicking back to watch some MLS Soccer. NY Red Bulls are playing Chicago Fire at Toyota Park. Wish I could be there, but I'll settle for watching from the comfort of my air conditioned living room with Bo.
Samantha
P.S. I will try to update more frequently in the future to make these posts a bit shorter!
About a week after my arrival, my family hosted the 76th Annual Jambor Family Reunion. For those of you who aren't related, this is a reunion on my mother's side consisting of my grandfather's siblings, their kids (my mom), their kids' kids (me) and, their kids' grandkids (my cousins' children) and, in some family lines, their great grandkids! It's kind of a big deal. This year we made key chains with a picture of my grandpa's parents at their wedding. Also, my mom has a charcoal portraits of my grandpa's grandparents - both sets. She is big on genealogy and it is very cool.
After this reunion, we always take a family vacation with my aunts and uncles and cousins to some cabins at Platte River State Park. We stay out at the cabins for a week and generally do a lot of nothing, play cards, go to the water park, and now that we're all a bit older, drink. This year, some of my cousins played paintball! They have some really lovely red welts surrounded by gorgeous purple bruises. I opted to stay home for that outing.
To be honest though, vacation is getting kind of boring. Or rather, time off is getting boring. I miss working and having things to do. I've been doing a lot of reading for leisure and watching lots of soccer (so glad my parents have cable). And I'm very much looking forward to my next trip out of state - I'm headed to Colorado with one of my childhood friends, Mikayla, to visit another old friend, Whitney, who just had a beautiful baby girl in June!
As soon as I get back form that trip, I've got three days "off" and then it's time for Orientation. We go all day Thursday and Friday (August 19-20), but there's also an optional session on Wednesday, which I intend to attend. Also, in the next few weeks I need to buy a new (used) car and tomorrow I'll be ordering a new computer - a MacBook Pro! Super excited for that.
Oh and some updates since my last entry: (1) Michael passed his driving test and is now a licensed and legal driver. Please be safe and cautious when driving the streets of Lincoln!! (2) My foot is not healed. Super lame. Taking more time off from running.
For now, I'm kicking back to watch some MLS Soccer. NY Red Bulls are playing Chicago Fire at Toyota Park. Wish I could be there, but I'll settle for watching from the comfort of my air conditioned living room with Bo.
Samantha
P.S. I will try to update more frequently in the future to make these posts a bit shorter!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Settling In
Hello everyone. Welcome back for the second edition of my oh so exciting blog! I am now officially moved back to Lincoln and settling in at home. It was a long a somewhat treacherous trip home, but we managed to survive.
Amy and Tyson flew into Chicago on Friday morning to help me move. They left Lincoln at 5:30am to catch an early flight out of Omaha - they must really love me! :) We had one last meal in Chicago - breakfast at Yolk, a restaurant I highly recommend - and then headed to the apartment to pack up. My roommate Jef helped us, and it only took us about an hour to get all my things loaded up.
The drive through Illinois was relatively uneventful... until we reached the Iowa boarder. Right as we pulled off the interstate, we drove in to one of the most terrible thunderstorms I've ever been in or seen. The rain was coming down in sheets, we could barely see out the windows, the trees were blowing so hard they were practically covering the streets and the truck was was vibrating because the wind was blowing so hard. Eventually, we pulled off to the side of the road and sheltered the truck next to a shed to wait out the storm. Tyson was driving the whole time and stayed much calmer and more collected than I ever could have. Thank, God. We all made it out alive and in tact though, so I guess it worked out.
We got back on the interstate and drove a little more until the car in front of us slowed down suddenly, and then the car next to it slowed down suddenly. We couldn't figure out what was going on, but Amy noticed a car pulled off on the side of the road ahead. And then we saw a dog running down the interstate into oncoming traffic. The car ahead of us and in the next lane tried to slow down and avoid it, but they nicked him a little - he stumbled, rolled and then just kept running. Really scary sight to see.
After driving through a few more rough patches of rain, getting cut off three times (twice by the same jerk-face) and then getting stuck in construction outside of Council Bluffs, we finally made it home to my parents after about 10 hours driving. Many, many thanks to Tyson for driving the whole way! And to Amy, Ty and Jef for helping me move my things. I am so grateful to have such loving and helpful people in my life.
Now I am just settling in at home, getting things in order for school and running errands around town with Michael. Today we did a lot of driving to help Michael prepare for his driving test - it's almost that time. And I got new running shoes today! Brand spankin' new yellow and purple Mizunos. Beautiful.
Went for a run today, first time in over a month. I've been having some problems with my foot (plantar fasciitis). The run was okay... my shoes feel great, my foot had minimal pain, but the buys were really yucky! The plan is to just ease into the running for now, only run every other day and stop if there is any pain at all. Can't wait to run around the park at Platte River, and run some stairs up the tower!
That's all for now. Thanks for reading!
Amy and Tyson flew into Chicago on Friday morning to help me move. They left Lincoln at 5:30am to catch an early flight out of Omaha - they must really love me! :) We had one last meal in Chicago - breakfast at Yolk, a restaurant I highly recommend - and then headed to the apartment to pack up. My roommate Jef helped us, and it only took us about an hour to get all my things loaded up.
The drive through Illinois was relatively uneventful... until we reached the Iowa boarder. Right as we pulled off the interstate, we drove in to one of the most terrible thunderstorms I've ever been in or seen. The rain was coming down in sheets, we could barely see out the windows, the trees were blowing so hard they were practically covering the streets and the truck was was vibrating because the wind was blowing so hard. Eventually, we pulled off to the side of the road and sheltered the truck next to a shed to wait out the storm. Tyson was driving the whole time and stayed much calmer and more collected than I ever could have. Thank, God. We all made it out alive and in tact though, so I guess it worked out.
We got back on the interstate and drove a little more until the car in front of us slowed down suddenly, and then the car next to it slowed down suddenly. We couldn't figure out what was going on, but Amy noticed a car pulled off on the side of the road ahead. And then we saw a dog running down the interstate into oncoming traffic. The car ahead of us and in the next lane tried to slow down and avoid it, but they nicked him a little - he stumbled, rolled and then just kept running. Really scary sight to see.
After driving through a few more rough patches of rain, getting cut off three times (twice by the same jerk-face) and then getting stuck in construction outside of Council Bluffs, we finally made it home to my parents after about 10 hours driving. Many, many thanks to Tyson for driving the whole way! And to Amy, Ty and Jef for helping me move my things. I am so grateful to have such loving and helpful people in my life.
Now I am just settling in at home, getting things in order for school and running errands around town with Michael. Today we did a lot of driving to help Michael prepare for his driving test - it's almost that time. And I got new running shoes today! Brand spankin' new yellow and purple Mizunos. Beautiful.
Went for a run today, first time in over a month. I've been having some problems with my foot (plantar fasciitis). The run was okay... my shoes feel great, my foot had minimal pain, but the buys were really yucky! The plan is to just ease into the running for now, only run every other day and stop if there is any pain at all. Can't wait to run around the park at Platte River, and run some stairs up the tower!
That's all for now. Thanks for reading!
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