I was sitting in Theory this week and myself and another cohort member were talking about how we seemed to be completely lost. We're reading Karl Marx so it's some pretty historically and philosophically deep stuff. I'm convinced that it's not so much the topic that's hard to follow, but the thought process of the presenters (both the professor and the writer). As we were conversing about this the professor walked in and asked if we were confused. Upon admitting that we were he reassured us by saying, "if you aren't confused you aren't learning."
This certainly made me feel better about what I was viewing as a self-deficiency. I think that's a very core truth that until someone says it to you, you don't really realize the truth in it. So regardless of the fact that half the time I'm sitting in graduate school lectures I find myself asking if I really belong here, this probably is both perfectly normal and positive. I can now take comfort in the face that I don't understand half of what is said. And, those around me either get it, or they do an insanely good job of pretending they do. But, somehow I think everyone else is in the same boat and that we just manage our expressions differently (there's a sociological study for me to do).
Classes are going good. There is a lot of reading. The content has remained interesting so far, which motivates me to keep going. I talked with a second year this morning and he told me, "just think...after next week the quarter is 1/3 of the way over." This both excited me and stressed out a little. All the second-years reassure me that the first year is the hardest, and of the first year the first quarter is the hardest. So, I'm 1/5 of the way through the hardest quarter of my career!
My GTF classes are great also. I certainly have a favorite section, they're amazing. The other group is amazing also, but a little more standoffish. I find myself questioning the differences I use in the teaching methods between the two classes and trying to decide how much of my teaching differences influence their behavior and/or response...probably a large portion of it. Trying to work on that.
Anyhow, sitting in office hours and still no one has come to visit. Although, I'm not surprised. It's Thursday afternoon and a lot of students probably are done with classes for the week. Probably not the best timing on my part. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Cheers to one more week down!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
My Promise to the Working Class
Let this be a promise, put in writing, that I will not abandon my people for the sake of my own success. I will not buy into these ideas of higher education being about research, individual successes, and how much I can cram into my curriculum Vitae. Instead, I promise to use my education to better the lives of others. To reach out to those who are most like me, living working-class lives, experiencing discrimination in multiple forms, and teach them to better understand their predicament, how to get out of it (if they so desire), and how to help others.
I do not aspire to be a published, well-known professor at a well-known research institution. I do not seek to only further my own research interests, and the research interests of other detached, highly educated, impersonal scholars. Instead, I want my research to speak to people, everyday people. I want my research to tell a story that ALL can understand, not only those with status initials at the end of their name.
Let me remember, at the end of this ordeal, where I come from and where it is I desire to go at this very moment. Let me remember that sociology is about helping those in need, creating social change for the better, and that it is not about the fattening of my personal pocketbook.
I do not aspire to be a published, well-known professor at a well-known research institution. I do not seek to only further my own research interests, and the research interests of other detached, highly educated, impersonal scholars. Instead, I want my research to speak to people, everyday people. I want my research to tell a story that ALL can understand, not only those with status initials at the end of their name.
Let me remember, at the end of this ordeal, where I come from and where it is I desire to go at this very moment. Let me remember that sociology is about helping those in need, creating social change for the better, and that it is not about the fattening of my personal pocketbook.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Start of Fall and Classes
The fall weather began on the exact same day that classes started. It's cool and gloomy, but I really like it for a change. The air is starting to smell like fall here, which is something I miss dearly from living in Michigan my entire childhood. In California it's about 90, sunny, and dry right now. So, I'm feeling this weather. At least for right now...talk to me in December.
Going to my first GTF class today. Looking forward to seeing all the crazy Freshpersons. I also find out today which sections (day and time) I'm teaching, which I'm dying to know since I could be teaching as early as tomorrow. Luckily, my professor who is leading the class seems pretty loose about what and how we teach. I suppose I'll just try and make it as fun as possible, and as interactive as possible and go from there. Gosh, it can't be much different then working with the 3 children at my nanny job for the past seven years. Probably comparable discipline issues. HA! Maybe I'll make a time-out corner in the room!
As far as my classes are concerned, they're alright. I'm learning quickly that professors REALLY like to talk about themselves and really have little to no concern about whether or not you're really getting the material. Please, please, please, don't let me ever get like that. I really don't want to be the type of professor that constantly brags about themselves, rambles on and on, and does so in a manner that the students might as well not even be in the room.
I love reading the theory we've been assigned. Class is supposed to be a seminar, but appears to be more of a lecture format, which is extremely disappointing. I'd much rather speak with the others in my class about their interpretations.
My methods class sounds like it's going to be relatively interesting. Should offer me a well-rounded idea of what my research method options are. Although, I doubt I'll go with anything other then qualitative just because I really enjoy it and that's what my experience is in.
Someone asked me yesterday how I was feeling about school and all I could say was, "amazing." This is exactly what I've always wanted, always dreamed about. It's incredible that I don't have a job outside the university. I don't have to "switch gears" from the academic world to the "work" world. I actually think I'll have less stress in this program then I ever did in undergrad, but mostly because I'm not working full-time while trying to go to school 15+ semester units. I'm so thankful that I got accepted, and so glad that people pushed me to say yes. I'm really looking forward to the next years. And, yes...you can hold that against me later on.
Going to my first GTF class today. Looking forward to seeing all the crazy Freshpersons. I also find out today which sections (day and time) I'm teaching, which I'm dying to know since I could be teaching as early as tomorrow. Luckily, my professor who is leading the class seems pretty loose about what and how we teach. I suppose I'll just try and make it as fun as possible, and as interactive as possible and go from there. Gosh, it can't be much different then working with the 3 children at my nanny job for the past seven years. Probably comparable discipline issues. HA! Maybe I'll make a time-out corner in the room!
As far as my classes are concerned, they're alright. I'm learning quickly that professors REALLY like to talk about themselves and really have little to no concern about whether or not you're really getting the material. Please, please, please, don't let me ever get like that. I really don't want to be the type of professor that constantly brags about themselves, rambles on and on, and does so in a manner that the students might as well not even be in the room.
I love reading the theory we've been assigned. Class is supposed to be a seminar, but appears to be more of a lecture format, which is extremely disappointing. I'd much rather speak with the others in my class about their interpretations.
My methods class sounds like it's going to be relatively interesting. Should offer me a well-rounded idea of what my research method options are. Although, I doubt I'll go with anything other then qualitative just because I really enjoy it and that's what my experience is in.
Someone asked me yesterday how I was feeling about school and all I could say was, "amazing." This is exactly what I've always wanted, always dreamed about. It's incredible that I don't have a job outside the university. I don't have to "switch gears" from the academic world to the "work" world. I actually think I'll have less stress in this program then I ever did in undergrad, but mostly because I'm not working full-time while trying to go to school 15+ semester units. I'm so thankful that I got accepted, and so glad that people pushed me to say yes. I'm really looking forward to the next years. And, yes...you can hold that against me later on.
Monday, September 28, 2009
My First Discussion Syllabus. OMG, so excited!
SOC 207: Social Inequality – Fall 2009
Tracy DeHaan, GTF
Email: tdehaan@uoregon.edu
Office: 630 PLC
Office Hours:
Overview
The purpose of discussion sections is to give students a chance to better understand the course material through dialogue with other students. While I will help to guide discussion and reinforce what I think is important, the responsibility for creating productive discussion sections ultimately lies in your hands. The following is necessary in order for this to happen:
1. STUDENTS WILL BE EXPECTED TO READ THE ASSIGNMENTS BEFORE COMING TO CLASS. In order to be an active participant in the classroom, you must come to class prepared—even if being prepared means simply having questions about what was confusing to you in the readings. Come to class with readings done and bring your book, notes, and a writing utensil to each session. Being prepared means having all the tools you need to participate.
2. DO NOT PLAN TO USE CLASS TIME TO CATCH UP ON NON-CLASS ACTIVITIES. Do not read the sports page, surf the Internet, text ur bff, make your grocery lists, plan your weekend, write letters, sleep, flirt, or catch up with friends. Mentally “checking out” of class in this way will make it difficult to do well in the course and will be disruptive to your classmates. In addition, I will find it highly annoying. If you have a pressing need to do these things during scheduled class time, do yourself, me, and your classmates a favor and just don’t come to class. This is why attendance is not required for your grade. Instead, regular attendance acts as an opportunity for extra points towards your grade at the end of the quarter.
3. CLASSROOM DISCUSSIONS SHOULD REMAIN CIVIL. We are here to learn from each other. It is difficult to learn from someone who is yelling at you, rolling her/his eyes, grumbling under his/her breath, ignoring you, interrupting you, or engaging in other dismissive behaviors. I don’t expect that any of us will be tempted to behave so rudely, but it doesn’t hurt to spell out that these things are out-of-bounds in the classroom.
4. CELL PHONES SHOULD BE TURNED OFF BEFORE CLASS BEGINS. It is highly disruptive when these devices make noise during class time. Please don’t make me act like an elementary teacher and take your phone away until after class. Just kidding. Sorta.
5. AVOID TALKING OVER OTHERS AND CHITCHATTING DURING CLASS. This is a huge pet-peeve of mine. If you need clarification on something, I don’t mind answering questions (if I can). If you are talking about something else, you should do it somewhere else. I reserve the right to ask you to leave or to ask you to sit somewhere else in the room.
Final Comments
I am here to help you. If you have any disability, either temporary or permanent, which might affect your ability to participate fully in the discussion, please let me know right away. We can figure out what accommodations will be necessary to provide for equitable participation.
Don’t be a stranger! I would like to learn a little bit about all of you, including your names. It would help enormously if you would feel comfortable enough to introduce yourself to me before or after class. Be sure to visit me in my office hours or I’ll get bored!
I believe that every single one of you can do well in this class. In fact, I expect you to come with your game face on, to try your best, to put as much into the class as you can and get as much out of this class as you can, to ask for help when you need it, and to work with me to ensure your success.
Finally, I want to stress that ALL students are welcome in my class, regardless of national origin, religious affiliation, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical challenge, socioeconomic status, or cultural background. Let us work to make our classroom an environment marked by kindness and mutual respect for one another. It is our differences, even more than our similarities, that offer the richest opportunities for learning.
Tracy DeHaan, GTF
Email: tdehaan@uoregon.edu
Office: 630 PLC
Office Hours:
Overview
The purpose of discussion sections is to give students a chance to better understand the course material through dialogue with other students. While I will help to guide discussion and reinforce what I think is important, the responsibility for creating productive discussion sections ultimately lies in your hands. The following is necessary in order for this to happen:
1. STUDENTS WILL BE EXPECTED TO READ THE ASSIGNMENTS BEFORE COMING TO CLASS. In order to be an active participant in the classroom, you must come to class prepared—even if being prepared means simply having questions about what was confusing to you in the readings. Come to class with readings done and bring your book, notes, and a writing utensil to each session. Being prepared means having all the tools you need to participate.
2. DO NOT PLAN TO USE CLASS TIME TO CATCH UP ON NON-CLASS ACTIVITIES. Do not read the sports page, surf the Internet, text ur bff, make your grocery lists, plan your weekend, write letters, sleep, flirt, or catch up with friends. Mentally “checking out” of class in this way will make it difficult to do well in the course and will be disruptive to your classmates. In addition, I will find it highly annoying. If you have a pressing need to do these things during scheduled class time, do yourself, me, and your classmates a favor and just don’t come to class. This is why attendance is not required for your grade. Instead, regular attendance acts as an opportunity for extra points towards your grade at the end of the quarter.
3. CLASSROOM DISCUSSIONS SHOULD REMAIN CIVIL. We are here to learn from each other. It is difficult to learn from someone who is yelling at you, rolling her/his eyes, grumbling under his/her breath, ignoring you, interrupting you, or engaging in other dismissive behaviors. I don’t expect that any of us will be tempted to behave so rudely, but it doesn’t hurt to spell out that these things are out-of-bounds in the classroom.
4. CELL PHONES SHOULD BE TURNED OFF BEFORE CLASS BEGINS. It is highly disruptive when these devices make noise during class time. Please don’t make me act like an elementary teacher and take your phone away until after class. Just kidding. Sorta.
5. AVOID TALKING OVER OTHERS AND CHITCHATTING DURING CLASS. This is a huge pet-peeve of mine. If you need clarification on something, I don’t mind answering questions (if I can). If you are talking about something else, you should do it somewhere else. I reserve the right to ask you to leave or to ask you to sit somewhere else in the room.
Final Comments
I am here to help you. If you have any disability, either temporary or permanent, which might affect your ability to participate fully in the discussion, please let me know right away. We can figure out what accommodations will be necessary to provide for equitable participation.
Don’t be a stranger! I would like to learn a little bit about all of you, including your names. It would help enormously if you would feel comfortable enough to introduce yourself to me before or after class. Be sure to visit me in my office hours or I’ll get bored!
I believe that every single one of you can do well in this class. In fact, I expect you to come with your game face on, to try your best, to put as much into the class as you can and get as much out of this class as you can, to ask for help when you need it, and to work with me to ensure your success.
Finally, I want to stress that ALL students are welcome in my class, regardless of national origin, religious affiliation, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical challenge, socioeconomic status, or cultural background. Let us work to make our classroom an environment marked by kindness and mutual respect for one another. It is our differences, even more than our similarities, that offer the richest opportunities for learning.
End of "Last Weekend of Freedom"
Well, today brings to a close my "last weekend of freedom." Which, really wasn't all that free. Both of my professors sent me readings to do prior to our first class, including two chapters, an article, and some seriously heavy Karl Marx stuff. I'm definitely excited about it despite the prematurity of it all.
I talked to my mom and one of my best friends on the phone today. It was nice that both of them said I sounded good. In fact, my best friend told me that I sounded the best she'd ever heard me sound. That's great. I feel wonderful. Everyone in the Sociology department is so supportive and positive. They all reinforce my efforts and they help to remove any of the self-doubts I have. And, trust me I have a lot of self doubt. It's a welcome change, I'm not used to being around people who are so positive and supportive, especially in an academic environment.
Started my readings this evening and Karl Marx was an amazing thinker. I've only read 4 of the 60 pages I was assigned, but I feel like I've read an entire book. His work is like that, lots of depth. He's so right on, even 150 years later, about how our production of goods robs us (as individuals) of a rewarding and creative lifestyle. I could go more into it, but I'll spare you. His philosophies on religion also sum up a lot of what I feel, only I could never articulate it in the same manner that he does.
So far in my methods class I am generally surprised by how "easy" my assignments seem. I made it through the intro of the book (the most annoying chapter) and none of the concepts seem foreign to me. Thank goodness I had such an awesome theory teacher, took three methods classes, and a great intro to sociology teacher. I hear their voices and remember their examples as I read through the text. I am surprised at how elementary some of the work/concepts seem and can see where graduate school will be less about learning new information, and more about honing my skills and knowledge into something useful in research.
I meet tomorrow with my professor that I'm GTFing for. Should get the course syllabus and the book. Now, I just need to plan out my first lesson. Little nervous, but I'm sure I'll do fine. Always wanted to be a teacher, just didn't imagine it'd happen this fast.
Here's to a great first week. Wish me luck!
I talked to my mom and one of my best friends on the phone today. It was nice that both of them said I sounded good. In fact, my best friend told me that I sounded the best she'd ever heard me sound. That's great. I feel wonderful. Everyone in the Sociology department is so supportive and positive. They all reinforce my efforts and they help to remove any of the self-doubts I have. And, trust me I have a lot of self doubt. It's a welcome change, I'm not used to being around people who are so positive and supportive, especially in an academic environment.
Started my readings this evening and Karl Marx was an amazing thinker. I've only read 4 of the 60 pages I was assigned, but I feel like I've read an entire book. His work is like that, lots of depth. He's so right on, even 150 years later, about how our production of goods robs us (as individuals) of a rewarding and creative lifestyle. I could go more into it, but I'll spare you. His philosophies on religion also sum up a lot of what I feel, only I could never articulate it in the same manner that he does.
So far in my methods class I am generally surprised by how "easy" my assignments seem. I made it through the intro of the book (the most annoying chapter) and none of the concepts seem foreign to me. Thank goodness I had such an awesome theory teacher, took three methods classes, and a great intro to sociology teacher. I hear their voices and remember their examples as I read through the text. I am surprised at how elementary some of the work/concepts seem and can see where graduate school will be less about learning new information, and more about honing my skills and knowledge into something useful in research.
I meet tomorrow with my professor that I'm GTFing for. Should get the course syllabus and the book. Now, I just need to plan out my first lesson. Little nervous, but I'm sure I'll do fine. Always wanted to be a teacher, just didn't imagine it'd happen this fast.
Here's to a great first week. Wish me luck!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
One week down!
Finished up my first week at school. No class yet, but a whole bunch of orientations. I feel as though I am completely oriented to the school, my job, and my department. Probably a little too much. After four days of orientations I have been inundated with massive amounts of paper. In fact, I think a tree was cut just for me in order to create the massive paper pile on my desk. This actually has created a project for me to complete so that my resources will be well organized in case I ever need them. This is more frustrating them helpful.
Bit of a shock this week when I found out that I'm going to be teaching three discussion groups. Originally I thought this meant I just sit in a classroom and encourage the students to talk about the topics within the lectures, but I'm now finding out that I'm actually teaching content that is relative to the main course. I will have to do a syllabus, create activities and handouts, grade papers, hold office hours, attend the main class twice a week and hold three discussions groups all on the same day. All of this is a bit overwhelming considering I have never taught a class. I know I can do it, and I think I'll be great at it, but I just wasn't mentally prepared for it.
I am also very excited about suddenly and unexpectedly becoming a teacher. Didn't think this would happen for at least 4 yours, but hey...great job experience for when I finally earn my PhD. The class I'm teaching is about social inequalities, which is really my big deal within sociology. I love learning about social inequalities and often take a holistic approach to my research combining race, class and gender issues. I'm looking forward to presenting information to students that will provoke thought and help give them a way to articulate the different experiences they've had in life.
I also have my own office AND keys to the building. This is all very exciting you know! I share an office with another Graduate Teaching Fellow (GTF) who is also first year. He's also from Michigan, so that's fun. Everyone in my cohort seems pretty cool. All very different interests and experiences, which makes for some great conversations and an amazing support group. Everyone in the department, including faculty, staff, and other graduate students have been very welcoming and amazingly friendly.
Yeah, I definitely see this as the type of place I could spend the next 7 years of my life!
Bit of a shock this week when I found out that I'm going to be teaching three discussion groups. Originally I thought this meant I just sit in a classroom and encourage the students to talk about the topics within the lectures, but I'm now finding out that I'm actually teaching content that is relative to the main course. I will have to do a syllabus, create activities and handouts, grade papers, hold office hours, attend the main class twice a week and hold three discussions groups all on the same day. All of this is a bit overwhelming considering I have never taught a class. I know I can do it, and I think I'll be great at it, but I just wasn't mentally prepared for it.
I am also very excited about suddenly and unexpectedly becoming a teacher. Didn't think this would happen for at least 4 yours, but hey...great job experience for when I finally earn my PhD. The class I'm teaching is about social inequalities, which is really my big deal within sociology. I love learning about social inequalities and often take a holistic approach to my research combining race, class and gender issues. I'm looking forward to presenting information to students that will provoke thought and help give them a way to articulate the different experiences they've had in life.
I also have my own office AND keys to the building. This is all very exciting you know! I share an office with another Graduate Teaching Fellow (GTF) who is also first year. He's also from Michigan, so that's fun. Everyone in my cohort seems pretty cool. All very different interests and experiences, which makes for some great conversations and an amazing support group. Everyone in the department, including faculty, staff, and other graduate students have been very welcoming and amazingly friendly.
Yeah, I definitely see this as the type of place I could spend the next 7 years of my life!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Getting used to my new surroundings
Well, I moved up here on Wednesday. The drive up was mostly uneventful except for the very large pebble that smashed into my windshield creating a crack that only grew larger as I traveled longer. Luckily, I can say that was the worst part of the drive. Doesn't help much that my car is far from aerodynamic. Both Gizmo and I arrived safely and unharmed. We were tired, and slightly disoriented, but we were fine.
When I first arrived I felt very out of my element. My new place felt wrong and awkward. I found myself wanting to go "home" but soon realized I was home...it just didn't feel like it yet. It's hard to explain the anxieties you feel when you suddenly don't have that comfortable place to retreat to after a long, exhausting, and emotionally draining day.
For the most part I am feeling better. A couple of days of being cooped up in my new apartment and spending some time decorating it to my liking has certainly helped. The change in living environment is quite drastic. My apartment is twice the size and about 2/3 the cost of my previous place. This means I have my own office for studying and working, which I am still in the process of setting up. It's also odd not to have a job. I'm lost now that I'm only doing my own laundry, my own dishes, and my own grocery shopping.
So far this experience has been bittersweet. It's been 5 months coming to this point and I've done nothing but speculate about how I would feel when this day came. Now it's here and it's exactly what I thought it would be. Exciting, depressing, stressful, and rejuvenating. It's amazing what we learn about ourselves when we're forced to look at our life and its future dead in the face.
When I first arrived I felt very out of my element. My new place felt wrong and awkward. I found myself wanting to go "home" but soon realized I was home...it just didn't feel like it yet. It's hard to explain the anxieties you feel when you suddenly don't have that comfortable place to retreat to after a long, exhausting, and emotionally draining day.
For the most part I am feeling better. A couple of days of being cooped up in my new apartment and spending some time decorating it to my liking has certainly helped. The change in living environment is quite drastic. My apartment is twice the size and about 2/3 the cost of my previous place. This means I have my own office for studying and working, which I am still in the process of setting up. It's also odd not to have a job. I'm lost now that I'm only doing my own laundry, my own dishes, and my own grocery shopping.
So far this experience has been bittersweet. It's been 5 months coming to this point and I've done nothing but speculate about how I would feel when this day came. Now it's here and it's exactly what I thought it would be. Exciting, depressing, stressful, and rejuvenating. It's amazing what we learn about ourselves when we're forced to look at our life and its future dead in the face.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Thought for the Day
That's it, I've had enough. We live in one of the most modern countries in the world and I want to know why it is that we can't design a cheap toilet that doesn't spray water all over the seat. I was rather annoyed this week after using public toilets and realizing that the flush sprays water (amongst other things) all over the seat. And, no I don't use those toilet seat covers, but only because EVERY TIME I've attempted to use them I end up touching the disgusting thing in which I'm trying to avoid touching...only I touch it with my hand instead of my butt.
Anyhow, why do places like Target, aquariums, and public parks not invest just a few more dollars to purchase a toilet that functions properly. Better yet, why has this serious design flaw not yet been fixed? I'm going to start a revolution!
Anyhow, why do places like Target, aquariums, and public parks not invest just a few more dollars to purchase a toilet that functions properly. Better yet, why has this serious design flaw not yet been fixed? I'm going to start a revolution!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Seems an explanation is overdue.
So, I wasn't going to post anything about Oregon because frankly thinking any more about my decision and whether it's "right or wrong" is making me physically and mentally ill. However, those who are left in the dark are unaware of my decision, and for others I'm just exhausted from explaining myself 1000 times. This should help clear up all the confusion. I should warn you I'm going to be honest and frank (nothing new) and that if you're offended at all by what is said then I am sorry in advance.
I made the decision back in April to turn down the offer that UO made me. Certainly there was some question as to why I would make such a choice, but at the time I feel I had pretty good reasons. However, my hopes and alternative "options" quickly disappeared. Literally two days after emailing them to tell them I wasn't coming things started to look bad...really bad. Just to give you an idea here are some of the things that happened:
1. I sent the email on Friday night. On Monday I went to campus to change my graduate major to psychology. I was told by admission I could email the department and have my application forwarded to them and that the whole ordeal would be a smooth transaction. Silly me...I actually took admissions for their word. I'm pretty sure you only earn a BA by understanding that the entire admissions office is under qualified for the work they do AND that they're always wrong...ALWAYS. Obviously I failed that class. When I contacted the psychology department directly they told me that was not the case, all the while giving me a look like they thought I was retarded. I was told it was too late to transfer and that I'd have to reapply next year.
I didn't believe the lady in the office so I contacted the director of graduate studies in psychology directly. He confirmed that I could not enter the program and told me to reapply next year. He also warned me that the program would be highly competitive next year because of budget cuts. I asked if I was allowed to take undergraduate deficiencies with my graduate funding and he said no.
So, to summarize I wasn't going to be able to enter the MS in psychology until next year. And, I could not use my funding to make up my deficiencies. This means I would have had to spend $4500 out-of-pocket on making up deficiencies just so I could get into the program next year (hopefully) with aid (hopefully). None of any of that is a guarantee.
2. A couple of days after my decision a few things were said about the status of my job that made me realize that my work is not a guarantee either. I now know that most of what was said was not serious, but the thoughts that it conjured up have little to do with the reality of the situation. There was talk of letting me go in order for the family to buy a house, and then there was talk of the family looking into moving to Texas. Admittedly, neither of these statements had much power behind them, but they made me realize that my work, my life situation, my future is out of my hands and that my current outlook here can change in an instant. I had to ask myself why I was sticking around here for a job and family that can just as easily leave me stranded. I wasn't expecting to feel that way. For some reason I always assume that this life is stable, but it's not. Never has been and never will be. How would I feel if I turned down this opportunity only to be abandoned? I would feel like a complete moron and I would hate myself, and everyone around me, for it.
Besides my work there was also talk of Jason's job getting cut. There are too many shift leads at his work and his hours were threatened to be reduced by 40 hours a month. We can't afford that here. Jobs are scarce.
#3 Tuition hike at SJSU sent me into another tailspin. They approved a 10% increase in tuition and a decrease in grants (which is what I received). They are decreasing the grants that have already been awarded for next year AND increasing the tuition. Therefore, my next year at SJSU would have cost me $800 above and beyond the "full-ride" I was originally getting. Not that much money I suppose, but considering I wouldn't be studying what I want anyways it's kind of a huge waste.
#4 I realized that a big part of why I said no was because I didn't think I was worthy of such an offer. Deep down I think I will fail at this. Deep down I don't think I'm smart enough to be going into a PhD program. I'm not saying this so you'll all say, "yes you are." I KNOW that I am, but I don't think that I am...does that make any sense? On paper I'm very impressive, but in my head all the negativity holds me back from really pushing the bar and exploring new things. It's easier to say no and never fail then it is to fail trying.
I had several weeks to work through all this psychological bull crap and finally concluded that I was capable and ready for the challenge. Only problem was I had already turned it down. I decided I'd just tough it out. I'd start SJSU in the fall in the sociology MA program and then reapply to all the same DUMB schools that rejected me this year. Maybe I'd get in...maybe I'd get funding...maybe I wouldn't. I didn't want to go through all of that again. EVER.
Now, if I wasn't already questioning my decision, which I was, all of the above made me really reconsider what I had chosen. I was getting really depressed about not accepting and I was realizing that by saying no I had made the next few years very challenging and hard on myself and my family. Both Jason and I would have to work (almost full-time) and attend school full-time just to graduate/stay on track. Doing all of that in a world of uncertainty and limited funding/jobs/everything made me realize that maybe I had thrown away a really good thing. The voice in my head told me to pursue going to UO even though I had already turned it down and so that's what I decided to do.
So, I looked into "changing my mind." As it turns out the position was still available and they still wanted me to attend in the fall. I saw this as kind of a winning the lotto twice, or being struck by lighting twice in a lifetime type of scenario. I'm really lucky that the offer was still valid. I accepted.
This has not been easy for me, or my immediate family. I know I created what seems like a lot of drama, but this decision was the hardest one I've ever had to make in my life. I usually trust the voice in my head and it's always right, but this time it was giving me two conflicting messages.
Bottom line: I'm scared to say yes, and never underestimate the power of anxiety about change.
What can you do to help me? I'm full of doubt. My head is highly efficient at creating negativity. The last thing I need is people saying things like, "aren't you going to miss California?" or "you're going to miss those kids." I know this. EVERYDAY I think things like:
"Pretty soon I won't be able to play kickball with Josh" or
"If I miss the kids after a week of vacation how am I going to leave for 5 years?" or
"What it I hate it there?"
There's a lot of what ifs AND they go in both directions. Fact of the matter is this is a great opportunity. It's someone paying me to go to school for at least 4 years. For 4 years I don't have to do anything but study. This is seriously the life I've always wanted and up until now I was too scared to accept it.
I'm going to do this. I'm going to be successful and I'm going to struggle with this for a long time. It's going to be frustrating, depressing, anxiety provoking, and probably the hardest thing I'll ever do (both leaving the family and going into graduate school). But, I feel like I have the support of those around me. I'm going to be ok, and nothing is forever. I can always change my mind (certainly have in the past...OBVIOUSLY).
Hopefully this clears some things up.
I made the decision back in April to turn down the offer that UO made me. Certainly there was some question as to why I would make such a choice, but at the time I feel I had pretty good reasons. However, my hopes and alternative "options" quickly disappeared. Literally two days after emailing them to tell them I wasn't coming things started to look bad...really bad. Just to give you an idea here are some of the things that happened:
1. I sent the email on Friday night. On Monday I went to campus to change my graduate major to psychology. I was told by admission I could email the department and have my application forwarded to them and that the whole ordeal would be a smooth transaction. Silly me...I actually took admissions for their word. I'm pretty sure you only earn a BA by understanding that the entire admissions office is under qualified for the work they do AND that they're always wrong...ALWAYS. Obviously I failed that class. When I contacted the psychology department directly they told me that was not the case, all the while giving me a look like they thought I was retarded. I was told it was too late to transfer and that I'd have to reapply next year.
I didn't believe the lady in the office so I contacted the director of graduate studies in psychology directly. He confirmed that I could not enter the program and told me to reapply next year. He also warned me that the program would be highly competitive next year because of budget cuts. I asked if I was allowed to take undergraduate deficiencies with my graduate funding and he said no.
So, to summarize I wasn't going to be able to enter the MS in psychology until next year. And, I could not use my funding to make up my deficiencies. This means I would have had to spend $4500 out-of-pocket on making up deficiencies just so I could get into the program next year (hopefully) with aid (hopefully). None of any of that is a guarantee.
2. A couple of days after my decision a few things were said about the status of my job that made me realize that my work is not a guarantee either. I now know that most of what was said was not serious, but the thoughts that it conjured up have little to do with the reality of the situation. There was talk of letting me go in order for the family to buy a house, and then there was talk of the family looking into moving to Texas. Admittedly, neither of these statements had much power behind them, but they made me realize that my work, my life situation, my future is out of my hands and that my current outlook here can change in an instant. I had to ask myself why I was sticking around here for a job and family that can just as easily leave me stranded. I wasn't expecting to feel that way. For some reason I always assume that this life is stable, but it's not. Never has been and never will be. How would I feel if I turned down this opportunity only to be abandoned? I would feel like a complete moron and I would hate myself, and everyone around me, for it.
Besides my work there was also talk of Jason's job getting cut. There are too many shift leads at his work and his hours were threatened to be reduced by 40 hours a month. We can't afford that here. Jobs are scarce.
#3 Tuition hike at SJSU sent me into another tailspin. They approved a 10% increase in tuition and a decrease in grants (which is what I received). They are decreasing the grants that have already been awarded for next year AND increasing the tuition. Therefore, my next year at SJSU would have cost me $800 above and beyond the "full-ride" I was originally getting. Not that much money I suppose, but considering I wouldn't be studying what I want anyways it's kind of a huge waste.
#4 I realized that a big part of why I said no was because I didn't think I was worthy of such an offer. Deep down I think I will fail at this. Deep down I don't think I'm smart enough to be going into a PhD program. I'm not saying this so you'll all say, "yes you are." I KNOW that I am, but I don't think that I am...does that make any sense? On paper I'm very impressive, but in my head all the negativity holds me back from really pushing the bar and exploring new things. It's easier to say no and never fail then it is to fail trying.
I had several weeks to work through all this psychological bull crap and finally concluded that I was capable and ready for the challenge. Only problem was I had already turned it down. I decided I'd just tough it out. I'd start SJSU in the fall in the sociology MA program and then reapply to all the same DUMB schools that rejected me this year. Maybe I'd get in...maybe I'd get funding...maybe I wouldn't. I didn't want to go through all of that again. EVER.
Now, if I wasn't already questioning my decision, which I was, all of the above made me really reconsider what I had chosen. I was getting really depressed about not accepting and I was realizing that by saying no I had made the next few years very challenging and hard on myself and my family. Both Jason and I would have to work (almost full-time) and attend school full-time just to graduate/stay on track. Doing all of that in a world of uncertainty and limited funding/jobs/everything made me realize that maybe I had thrown away a really good thing. The voice in my head told me to pursue going to UO even though I had already turned it down and so that's what I decided to do.
So, I looked into "changing my mind." As it turns out the position was still available and they still wanted me to attend in the fall. I saw this as kind of a winning the lotto twice, or being struck by lighting twice in a lifetime type of scenario. I'm really lucky that the offer was still valid. I accepted.
This has not been easy for me, or my immediate family. I know I created what seems like a lot of drama, but this decision was the hardest one I've ever had to make in my life. I usually trust the voice in my head and it's always right, but this time it was giving me two conflicting messages.
Bottom line: I'm scared to say yes, and never underestimate the power of anxiety about change.
What can you do to help me? I'm full of doubt. My head is highly efficient at creating negativity. The last thing I need is people saying things like, "aren't you going to miss California?" or "you're going to miss those kids." I know this. EVERYDAY I think things like:
"Pretty soon I won't be able to play kickball with Josh" or
"If I miss the kids after a week of vacation how am I going to leave for 5 years?" or
"What it I hate it there?"
There's a lot of what ifs AND they go in both directions. Fact of the matter is this is a great opportunity. It's someone paying me to go to school for at least 4 years. For 4 years I don't have to do anything but study. This is seriously the life I've always wanted and up until now I was too scared to accept it.
I'm going to do this. I'm going to be successful and I'm going to struggle with this for a long time. It's going to be frustrating, depressing, anxiety provoking, and probably the hardest thing I'll ever do (both leaving the family and going into graduate school). But, I feel like I have the support of those around me. I'm going to be ok, and nothing is forever. I can always change my mind (certainly have in the past...OBVIOUSLY).
Hopefully this clears some things up.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Yes, I'm Insane.
As many of you already knew, I'm insane. This really should come as no surprise. Anyways, I rejected the offer made by University of Oregon for many reasons, none of which most of you will understand. But, regardless of anybody's ability to relate to my madness, it is my madness and my choice. I've always been unconventional, and people have never been ok with that.
Initially, when I thought I had been technically rejected by all six schools I applied to for sociology PhDs, I began thinking of other things I could do. I erroneously never made a "back up" plan because I ignorantly believed that I would be accepted to multiple schools and have to choose which one would be best for me. As you can imagine, not getting into any of them put my life into somewhat of a tailspin. Well, I began questioning my major, was it what I really wanted? Did I really want to spend 7 years of work to be an underpaid sociology professor? I mean, yes I'm passionate about it, but I have to get paid, you know? I'm passionate about selling Pier 1 candles too, but it doesn't pay the bills, get my drift?
When I got the email from UO I was immediately in shock. Intuition was to take it without a doubt, a real no-brainer, right? They were offering me a world that any sociologist would dream of having. Well, normally I would say yes, but after coming down off of a two day high of feeling really smart and accomplished, I realized I didn't really want it any more. I concluded that my new found options were more suiting for me, and what I want my future to look like didn't involve working in sociology.
I tried very hard to convince myself I had to go. I talked with my family, friends, my professors, UO's professors, their graduate students. Which, by the way, no one on that list told me I shouldn't go, not one. Granted, the graduate student didn't have a very positive outlook on the department, which said A LOT to me about what it would be like to go there (she's from the bay area and had a hard time adjusting to the "whiteness" and the small town feel, which were two of my biggest concerns). The big "ah-ha" moment was when, in talking to these people, I realized that this is the perfect opportunity to get my PhD in sociology. It's great, hands-down the most awesome opportunity, and I couldn't figure out why I didn't want it. Then I figured it out. I don't want a PhD in sociology. It hit me, like a Mack truck. I knew that was why I was questioning it, and then had to figure out how to tell all of those who have been supporting me over the last two years, that I suddenly didn't want what I thought I'd been working towards.
Some have accepted it, some are really happy for me, and some have not responded, oh well. Fact is, it's my life, my opportunity, and my decision. I view this as a completely positive experience, regardless of what others may think of my decision. It was necessary, necessary so that I could confront the offer and realize my true feelings. Imagine where I would be if I hadn't been given the offer? Still wondering if I could get in next year...what a waste of time that would have been. Glad I realized it now, and not next year, or two years after entering a program. I don't view the past two years as a waste, but instead a journey that got me to this very moment, a moment of new found hope, excitement, and passion...something I realized I haven't felt for a while about school or my future.
So, why the change? Some of you are aware that I'm interested in the social interactionism, i.e. social psychology aspects of sociology. Basically, I like studying how people create and live with identity, and how class and gender alters identity formation. Well, both sociology and psychology offer this area of specialization. Difference being that it's the red-headed step child of sociology and not of psychology. Sociologists (many of them) believe we should focus on the macro problems, that all problems are social and that only through studying groups can we come up with solutions to social problems. I however, do not agree with that. I see the value in macro, but also feel that a psychosocial approach is best, consider both the group and the individuals that comprise that group. If we don't understand how the mind works, we can't figure out group interactions. If we don't understand the job of the engine, we can't understand the car, ya know?
Anyways, having come from the macro and going into the micro (psych) I am fully prepared to take on the issues that I want to study, with the freedom to focus on individuals in graduate school. Starting this fall I am working on making up some deficiencies for my MS in psychology (which is also a free ride in grants), and plan on applying to psych PhD programs for next fall. Do I wish I would have realized this sooner? Hell yes. Did my best psych professor and mentor tell me last November that I would regret not applying to psych programs? Yes. Do I regret not listening to him? Yes. Is there anything I can do about it? No. Lesson learned. He was the first person (who understood my interests) to tell me that sociology was not where it was at, no sociologist was going to tell me that...well they did, but they just steered me in a macro direction.
I'm happy. My future is promising, and I'm honored that I was even given the opportunity. But, as the saying goes if the shoe doesn't fit, don't wear it. Or, don't try and cram a square peg into a round hole, or...well you get the picture. :) I'm excited to see where my future takes me, and I have faith the decision is right for me.
Initially, when I thought I had been technically rejected by all six schools I applied to for sociology PhDs, I began thinking of other things I could do. I erroneously never made a "back up" plan because I ignorantly believed that I would be accepted to multiple schools and have to choose which one would be best for me. As you can imagine, not getting into any of them put my life into somewhat of a tailspin. Well, I began questioning my major, was it what I really wanted? Did I really want to spend 7 years of work to be an underpaid sociology professor? I mean, yes I'm passionate about it, but I have to get paid, you know? I'm passionate about selling Pier 1 candles too, but it doesn't pay the bills, get my drift?
When I got the email from UO I was immediately in shock. Intuition was to take it without a doubt, a real no-brainer, right? They were offering me a world that any sociologist would dream of having. Well, normally I would say yes, but after coming down off of a two day high of feeling really smart and accomplished, I realized I didn't really want it any more. I concluded that my new found options were more suiting for me, and what I want my future to look like didn't involve working in sociology.
I tried very hard to convince myself I had to go. I talked with my family, friends, my professors, UO's professors, their graduate students. Which, by the way, no one on that list told me I shouldn't go, not one. Granted, the graduate student didn't have a very positive outlook on the department, which said A LOT to me about what it would be like to go there (she's from the bay area and had a hard time adjusting to the "whiteness" and the small town feel, which were two of my biggest concerns). The big "ah-ha" moment was when, in talking to these people, I realized that this is the perfect opportunity to get my PhD in sociology. It's great, hands-down the most awesome opportunity, and I couldn't figure out why I didn't want it. Then I figured it out. I don't want a PhD in sociology. It hit me, like a Mack truck. I knew that was why I was questioning it, and then had to figure out how to tell all of those who have been supporting me over the last two years, that I suddenly didn't want what I thought I'd been working towards.
Some have accepted it, some are really happy for me, and some have not responded, oh well. Fact is, it's my life, my opportunity, and my decision. I view this as a completely positive experience, regardless of what others may think of my decision. It was necessary, necessary so that I could confront the offer and realize my true feelings. Imagine where I would be if I hadn't been given the offer? Still wondering if I could get in next year...what a waste of time that would have been. Glad I realized it now, and not next year, or two years after entering a program. I don't view the past two years as a waste, but instead a journey that got me to this very moment, a moment of new found hope, excitement, and passion...something I realized I haven't felt for a while about school or my future.
So, why the change? Some of you are aware that I'm interested in the social interactionism, i.e. social psychology aspects of sociology. Basically, I like studying how people create and live with identity, and how class and gender alters identity formation. Well, both sociology and psychology offer this area of specialization. Difference being that it's the red-headed step child of sociology and not of psychology. Sociologists (many of them) believe we should focus on the macro problems, that all problems are social and that only through studying groups can we come up with solutions to social problems. I however, do not agree with that. I see the value in macro, but also feel that a psychosocial approach is best, consider both the group and the individuals that comprise that group. If we don't understand how the mind works, we can't figure out group interactions. If we don't understand the job of the engine, we can't understand the car, ya know?
Anyways, having come from the macro and going into the micro (psych) I am fully prepared to take on the issues that I want to study, with the freedom to focus on individuals in graduate school. Starting this fall I am working on making up some deficiencies for my MS in psychology (which is also a free ride in grants), and plan on applying to psych PhD programs for next fall. Do I wish I would have realized this sooner? Hell yes. Did my best psych professor and mentor tell me last November that I would regret not applying to psych programs? Yes. Do I regret not listening to him? Yes. Is there anything I can do about it? No. Lesson learned. He was the first person (who understood my interests) to tell me that sociology was not where it was at, no sociologist was going to tell me that...well they did, but they just steered me in a macro direction.
I'm happy. My future is promising, and I'm honored that I was even given the opportunity. But, as the saying goes if the shoe doesn't fit, don't wear it. Or, don't try and cram a square peg into a round hole, or...well you get the picture. :) I'm excited to see where my future takes me, and I have faith the decision is right for me.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Dealing with Serious Rejection
Well, I've gotten three rejection letters from PhD programs. As it stands now I won't be going to PhD school in California. All three rejections were from UC schools. There are still three schools left, but at this rate I have no hope that any of them will accept me either. The only one I stand a chance at getting into is U of Oregon and I don't really want to go there. It's ok, I really don't view it as a completely negative thing. Instead I think it's a push in a different direction. Just another one of life's lessons that reminds you you have no real control over your future.
It's not that I could have done anything more to get in (other then have a MA). I did everything right, I was published, completed research, did an internship, graduated Summa Cum Laude (3.9 GPA), double majored, Honors Societies, etc., etc., etc. So, why didn't I get in? Well, my best guess is that going to California State hurt my chances. CSU may seem amazing to anyone outside the state of California, but here, where you have University of California schools to compete with, state isn't much of anything. Knowing that I did everything possible has certainly made me feel better about it.
I applied to the MA program at SJSU (my undergraduate school) and am mostly positive that I will get in there, but with the state budget cuts you never can tell these days. I'm also SERIOUSLY considering getting a MS instead of an MA by going into environmental science. I've always been interested in it and the way I see it is I have two options (well, I have more than that, but you get the point):
1. I get my MA (2 years), then apply to PhD schools where I most def will get in because of the MA. Then they make me re-take all of my theory and methods classes because they aren't up to par (oh the snobbery of PhD schools), which adds another year of study to my PhD program. Then, the PhD will take another 5 years or so to complete. Basically, I'm looking at another 8 years of college. What do I have when I'm done? A PhD in sociology and over $50,000 of debt. What will that get me? A job making 50,000 a year teaching college and writing. Now, yes, I love sociology, but I was making more than that as a store manager at Pier 1. I'm sure I would love my job, but by the time I graduated, got a job, and got tenure I would be ready to retire...uh...not much fun I don't think. The sociologist in me keeps reminding me that life isn't about the money, but when you're going 50K in debt to pay for your education you would expect a slightly higher return...ya know?
2. I get my MS in environmental science. It would take me about a year to make up for any undergraduate requirements I need to get into the MS program. Then, another 2 years to get the MS. After three years I would graduate with an MS. What will that get me? Roughly $12,000 in debt, but with the ability to make much more than 50,000 a year, have job security knowing that ES is going to be a very high demand field considering the current environmental issues, and I can get a job I love and possibly work outdoors and in nature most of the time. Not to mention, I could still opt for the academic life if I so wanted. Basically, the MS is a lot more flexible and requires a lot less schooling. It will be harder for me to complete because my undergraduate training was not focused on science (hard) at all. I don't know...the idea just hit me when going for a walk a couple of months ago. I feel sad that I may abandon my first love, but excited because I feel a passion about it that I used to (and continue to) feel about sociology.
In my opinion they are both equally tempting. What do you think?
It's not that I could have done anything more to get in (other then have a MA). I did everything right, I was published, completed research, did an internship, graduated Summa Cum Laude (3.9 GPA), double majored, Honors Societies, etc., etc., etc. So, why didn't I get in? Well, my best guess is that going to California State hurt my chances. CSU may seem amazing to anyone outside the state of California, but here, where you have University of California schools to compete with, state isn't much of anything. Knowing that I did everything possible has certainly made me feel better about it.
I applied to the MA program at SJSU (my undergraduate school) and am mostly positive that I will get in there, but with the state budget cuts you never can tell these days. I'm also SERIOUSLY considering getting a MS instead of an MA by going into environmental science. I've always been interested in it and the way I see it is I have two options (well, I have more than that, but you get the point):
1. I get my MA (2 years), then apply to PhD schools where I most def will get in because of the MA. Then they make me re-take all of my theory and methods classes because they aren't up to par (oh the snobbery of PhD schools), which adds another year of study to my PhD program. Then, the PhD will take another 5 years or so to complete. Basically, I'm looking at another 8 years of college. What do I have when I'm done? A PhD in sociology and over $50,000 of debt. What will that get me? A job making 50,000 a year teaching college and writing. Now, yes, I love sociology, but I was making more than that as a store manager at Pier 1. I'm sure I would love my job, but by the time I graduated, got a job, and got tenure I would be ready to retire...uh...not much fun I don't think. The sociologist in me keeps reminding me that life isn't about the money, but when you're going 50K in debt to pay for your education you would expect a slightly higher return...ya know?
2. I get my MS in environmental science. It would take me about a year to make up for any undergraduate requirements I need to get into the MS program. Then, another 2 years to get the MS. After three years I would graduate with an MS. What will that get me? Roughly $12,000 in debt, but with the ability to make much more than 50,000 a year, have job security knowing that ES is going to be a very high demand field considering the current environmental issues, and I can get a job I love and possibly work outdoors and in nature most of the time. Not to mention, I could still opt for the academic life if I so wanted. Basically, the MS is a lot more flexible and requires a lot less schooling. It will be harder for me to complete because my undergraduate training was not focused on science (hard) at all. I don't know...the idea just hit me when going for a walk a couple of months ago. I feel sad that I may abandon my first love, but excited because I feel a passion about it that I used to (and continue to) feel about sociology.
In my opinion they are both equally tempting. What do you think?
Thursday, February 19, 2009
PUZZLES!
Jason and I completed our first puzzle together! We've both done them in the past, but never together. It was a 1500 piece Springbok called Shoes, Shoes, Shoes! It took us a total of about 12 hours to complete, or two evenings. Talk about serious eye strain! It ended up taking up my sister's entire coffee table which is about 3 feet wide by 2.5 feet long. We really enjoyed it, so we went on eBay and bought up a bunch of used ones. Now, we just have to wait for them to start arriving in the mail.
eBay is not the most economical way to buy used puzzles because of the weight associated with shipping them. So, Jason and I are planning on checking out garage/estate sales to see if we can get them for cheaper. It's also hard to find used puzzles that people know are complete and not missing a piece. So many people on eBay sell them without ever having done them.
Well, my hobbies are certainly developing with all this free time. I've settled on puzzles, reading, blogging, walking, meditating, and cooking (which can unfortunately get rather expensive and wasteful). I think that's a fairly good list for someone who said two months ago to her doctor that the only hobbies she knows is work and school!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
What's (not) on TV
I just completed season 1 of The Riches on DVD. The Riches was canceled after only two seasons on the FX network. It's a pretty great show, but there are definitely some pros and cons.
First of all, the show too closely resembles both Weeds (Showtime) and Big Love (HBO), both of which came out first. All three shows are dark comedies and all three story lines develop around an "abnormal" family trying to fit into suburbia. With Weeds it's a rich wife turned drug dealer after her husband dies. With Big Love it's a Mormon family with three wives trying to fit in without anyone knowing they're all married to each other. Finally, in The Riches it is a family of gypsies trying to act like everyone else. All three families try hard not to be found out and what keeps you watching is the constant threat to their family secret being unraveled.
Another con is that every episode starts with an intro, or a recap, that lasts about 2 minutes. It recaps everything that has happened since the beginning of the season. So, as you can imagine it gets longer with every episode. Also, I like Minnie Driver, but her fake southern accent gets under my skin quickly. A lot of the story line is highly predictable and mostly unbelievable, but then again sometimes that's what makes good television.
One of the pros is that Eddie Izzard is the main star. Not only is he extremely handsome, but his acting is quite good. He pretty much makes the show and if it weren't for him I probably would have stopped watching it after the first episode, which by the way was the worst of the season. He helped to write the series, and as a comedian I think he did a decent job of adding humor to the show.
I also have to give it credit for communicating realistic life lessons. There isn't always a happy ending, and not all the family lessons end with a hug and milk with cookies. The characters are honest and the show touches on controversial subjects without coming on too strong, but also without ignoring the issues completely. Oh, and it gets major props for using sociological terms and for bringing up the Protestant Ethic!
Overall, it's worth watching, but only because it's two seasons long. I have a feeling the catch and release style of the show would get old if it were to last much longer then that. I'm willing to give season 2 a try. With that said...I can't wait for the new Weeds and Big Love seasons to come out on DVD.
Short Fiction gives The Riches 3.5 stars.
First of all, the show too closely resembles both Weeds (Showtime) and Big Love (HBO), both of which came out first. All three shows are dark comedies and all three story lines develop around an "abnormal" family trying to fit into suburbia. With Weeds it's a rich wife turned drug dealer after her husband dies. With Big Love it's a Mormon family with three wives trying to fit in without anyone knowing they're all married to each other. Finally, in The Riches it is a family of gypsies trying to act like everyone else. All three families try hard not to be found out and what keeps you watching is the constant threat to their family secret being unraveled.
Another con is that every episode starts with an intro, or a recap, that lasts about 2 minutes. It recaps everything that has happened since the beginning of the season. So, as you can imagine it gets longer with every episode. Also, I like Minnie Driver, but her fake southern accent gets under my skin quickly. A lot of the story line is highly predictable and mostly unbelievable, but then again sometimes that's what makes good television.
One of the pros is that Eddie Izzard is the main star. Not only is he extremely handsome, but his acting is quite good. He pretty much makes the show and if it weren't for him I probably would have stopped watching it after the first episode, which by the way was the worst of the season. He helped to write the series, and as a comedian I think he did a decent job of adding humor to the show.
I also have to give it credit for communicating realistic life lessons. There isn't always a happy ending, and not all the family lessons end with a hug and milk with cookies. The characters are honest and the show touches on controversial subjects without coming on too strong, but also without ignoring the issues completely. Oh, and it gets major props for using sociological terms and for bringing up the Protestant Ethic!
Overall, it's worth watching, but only because it's two seasons long. I have a feeling the catch and release style of the show would get old if it were to last much longer then that. I'm willing to give season 2 a try. With that said...I can't wait for the new Weeds and Big Love seasons to come out on DVD.
Short Fiction gives The Riches 3.5 stars.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Adventures with Jinx
On Saturday a package arrived at our apartment. Little did we know that Jinx was inside. He escaped the winter snow prison commonly referred to as Michigan and arrived wearing a sarong. He explained to us that he had escaped and was attempting to hitch a ride to the beach for a little sunbathing. I had a hard time explaining to Jinx that it was one of the rainiest days of the year (I highly doubted he really wanted to go to the beach on that day). With a little convincing he accepted my advice, but still refused to remove his sarong.
We invited him in and offered him a place to stay, at least until we can get him to the beach! After thoroughly examining him we concur that he is extremely well made by loving hands. He arrived in one piece after traveling by air via the United States Postal Service and obviously needed some rest after traveling over 2000 miles to get to us. I question why we are so lucky to have received Jinx, but I am excited just thinking about the places he will go, the things he will see, and the many people he will meet.
Welcome Jinx and stay tuned!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Week in Review
Ahhh, the end of another great week. Started out the week with a little bit of stress about Zeus (my cat) and his health. Seems as though his bloody nose was caused by dried blade cat nip. So, for those of you who use it, beware it causes nose bleeds. His second blood test came back fine so he is back to normal.
It rained almost all week, which is a real treat for me. Normally it's so dry here and we're only at 60% of the necessary rain so we needed it. It makes walking the dog a little tiresome, but the sound and smell of rain puts my mind at ease.
I spent a lot of time this week cooking. I made brownies, profiteroles, and salmon from foodnetwork. I also made cupcakes for Valentine's Day, but made those with a box mix and canned frosting. Everything turned out amazing...well except for the salmon. I added cinnamon to the brownies which gave it a nice kick. The cupcakes were pink with red coconut (I used food coloring to make it red). Best of all, the profiteroles were so good (see picture). I posted the recipes below if anyone is interested:
Profiteroles
Brownies
Valentine's Day was really nice. Jason and I had the profiteroles for breakfast. We each made homemade cards, which were both personal and creative. We went to a late lunch together and then both worked for the rest of the evening. Not your traditional Vday, but we had fun nonetheless.
Best of all, I created this blog site. It's something I've wanted to do for several years now, but haven't got around to it. Not that I have that much important stuff to say, but I think I tend to write narratives that are both personal and sometimes captivating. I divulge a lot of myself in my blogs and I think my ability to get personal will allow readers to connect with me, my dreams, my life, and my experiences. I will also do book/movie reviews, recipe sharing, and other fun stuff to keep it entertaining, educational, and not too self-absorbed. Hopefully I'll pick up some regular visitors, but if not this will still be a good way for me to practice my writing and express myself. Now all I need to do is start my from home baking business and I'll be all set!
Here's to another great week!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
