Well, I have found mid-terms yet again. This time with only a few exams, and less stress. This month has been eventful, and exciting. To recap just a few things: 21st birthday, Legislative Day in Des Moines, IA, and great e-mail from a parent to the president of the college. :)
I have been 21 for about a week, and still am in awe. I went out with friends on Saturday, and still felt like a minor, I was assured this feeling would go away. My birthday went well, with a visit from two of my cousins who go to UW-SP. I enjoyed their company, and the perks that come with the 21st birthday. We consumed alcohol at a few bars, and did the shots of the families choice. All to come back home and enjoy a bit more alcohol. After back home my cousins and I enjoyed great conversations for about 4 hours until 4am. At this point they told to, "TO stop talking or else." I settled down and was wide awake the next morning... success, I think so. I love hanging out with family. :D Thank for the surprise Grace and Jess. :D I also last weekend went to go see my sister sing at Solo Ensemble. After listening to the few people before her, watched her walk into the room with nerves painted all over her face. Her best friend at her side. She sang her song, and then smiled at the Judge. After the judges comments, we then wondered around waiting for the results to be posted, after listening to 2 ensembles, 2 duets, and a few solos. The results were posted. My sister received a *1 on her duet. She is going to state! Congrats Steph!
On Febuary 24, I boarded a bus with the rest of my social policy class and headed to Des Moines, IA. I should state that I was woken up by two class mates after not waking up to my alarm clock. We were supposed to be at Neumann Aud. At 5:20am, and they knocked on my door at 5:40am. We were ready and on the busy at 5:50am, and the bus was ready to leave. I was commented that people were impressed on how quickly I got ready. Where our morning (9am-12pm) was consumed with NASW( National Association of Social Workers, IA chapter) We discussed the debt of the Country, and the legislation around the the Gay/Lesbian community. Also discussed was importance of Advocacy from the Social Worker point of view. After our morning conference we headed to the capital to talk to the legislator we had communicated with before hand. After the first two we tried to pull out of the Senate were unsucessful, we moved to the House of Represinives. Here we were able to talk to both of our Legislators. Heckroth, and Danielson. While talking to Danielson we were well received her took notes, and even gave us each his fireman's card and a business card. " Please keep in touch" he old us. While talking to Heckroth was not so easy. He seemed severely rush, and didn't want to take the time of day to listen to our points. He did give us a tour, and explain the parts of the House Chambers. I of course was talking lots of pictures. :)
Every person dreams of being recognized by someone in a significant way. I had that great honor in a e-mail that was sent from one of my residents parents to a few great people on campus. :) She wrote:
It seems like she has been hit with so much. I tell you all this, not for sympathy, but to let you know that time after time her RA has been an amazing support and friend to *. Kayla has been a wonderful influence and mentor to her. She has stayed up with her many nights making sure * would be alright Kayla also (when * has felt healthy) has taken * to the nursing home and * has connected with a "grandmother" and since has adopted her. I am so proud and grateful for Kayla and the friend that she has become to *.
( The residents name has been removed, and a * has been in its place)
When I read this e-mail, I was shocked! I couldn't explain my emotions in words, and have never did anything for recognition, but just because I am passionate in what I do. When I talked to my supervisor(RHD) she too was so proud, and was gliming from ear to ear. I couldn't believe it!
That is my month in a nutshell. :) Only seven more weeks until May Term, then four weeks until Summer Vaca! I can't wait to be free for a while, well almost. I will be taking classes this summer, and enjoying the sun... ALOT!
- Peace until we meet again-
Kayla
