If You're Happy and You Know it Clap Your Hands

An answer to prayer!

2008-02-24T00:37:00.002-06:00

Yes, it has been a while. I know and I'm sorry.

Basically I'm writing tonight to let everyone in on my big news. I'm getting a job! Not just any job, though, it's going to be amazing! Currently I'm training to be a tour guide at the Little River Zoo here in Norman. This job is going to contain two passions of mine: teaching and animals. Also, the Little River Zoo isn't like any zoo you've visited before. First of all, everyone who attends is taken on a guided tour of the animals in the zoo. You get to be up close and personal with a ton of animals. So far, my favorite part is when you get to howl with the coyotes. Or is it when you get to feed the kangaroos and pet one of them? I still have some training to go, but when I pass the test I will be hired!! They have so many cool programs they also run that involve a junior zoo keeper program in the summer as well as taking certain animals on education trips. Keep your calendar open on April 20th when they will be helping host a festival at Reeve's Park for Earth Day/Arbor Day. It's big! I'm really excited about this job because it's something that I can continue to do after graduation. I'm still interested in teaching high school science, so I'm going to look into getting alternatively certified while I'm working. Also, I'm in love with the mission behind this place. I don't know if I can explain it well, but this article on the place does a pretty good job.
http://www.okpetgazette.com/littlervr.html
It's kind of old but Janet is still passionately directing the place and leading my class. Ziggy's not around anymore, but I got to pet his son today!
Here is a site with some pictures that Brian Cook has taken.
http://www.pbase.com/bclee123/lrzoo
They're also a little old but I've already met many of these animals!
I'll try to keep everyone a little more updated, but as you can tell I'm going to be even busier! Let me know if you want to come out and visit the zoo! I have to give mock tours for friends and it will be awesome! Pray for warmer weather!

My love/hate relationship

2007-12-11T16:08:00.000-06:00

As many of you already know, this week is the culmination of a semester worth of learning--also known as finals week. Students aren't the only ones to feel the pressure associated with this time of the year. People all over town take note of the increase in textbook-toting students crowding the coffee shops, bookstores, and Ihop's. For me, this is about the time I swear off procrastinating ever again (for the billionth time), lose countless hours of sleep, and wonder why I ever loved science so much. Usually my caffeine intake is also quadrupled, but since I've basically quit drinking soda (which includes Dr. Pepper), this week officially holds the record for the lowest amount of caffeine I've consumed. In addition, I just finished my 3rd test of the day.

Yes, I said 3.
So, basically this should be the worst week ever. Right? In all actuality, I think this week is one of my favorite times of the year! Sure, I look forward to it with a healthy dose of fear, but there are things about this week that I love, too.

First off, no more classes to worry about--just the tests. That means more time to do whatever you want, including studying.
Even though I've pulled off many all-nighters in my college career, the majority of those times were spent with friends. I'm thankful for the many memories and special bonds those times have produced.
Selling books back!! Okay, so normally I end up not as happy after the bookstore worker tells me for the fifth time that they're not buying my book back. But, this year I got over $100! Woot, woot! (Too bad the bookstore is still making a killing.)
That silver lining of family and Christmas awaiting you when you're finished. I love knowing that in just a few days I'll be at home!!
And finally, the wonderful feeling of that weight being lifted off your shoulders as you walk out of that last test feeling as though you've accomplished something.

This semester is also special because it's ending with the marriage of two friends! Congrats Nick and Hailey! I'm so glad that I get to be a part of this celebration. Four more days!!!

Apart from all the excitement, as I look ahead to my last semester, I can't help but look back at the many memories and friends I've made along the way. This semester has had its fair share of memories, including this recent, CRAZY ice storm, and even though I can't wait to go home, I'm a little sad that I only get to do this one more time.

Twas the Night Before Big XII

2007-11-30T14:52:00.000-06:00

I'm back!

Seeing as I'm easily persuaded by friends, I couldn't help but revive my blog. This page has been collecting dust for quite some time now and I'm dying to let the world know what's going on in my exciting life. Today's post isn't exactly about me, but it is related. Early in the morning(5am to be exact) the band is heading to San Antonio for the Big XII Championship. My lovely roommate, Kaydee, ran across this poem and I thought it appropriate to share. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! BOOMER SOONER!

'Twas the night before the Big XII and all through the land,

not a Tiger was stirring, not even the band.

Their Jockeys were hung by the locker with care,

in hopes that the Sooners soon would be there.

Truman was nestled all snug in his bed,

while visions of the BCS danced in his head.

And Pinkel in his kerchief full of Tiger pride,

and Bob and the Sooners ready to ride.

When down in San Antone there arose such a clatter,

Chase sprang from his bed to see what was the matter.

He realized the Option was gone in a flash,

and Maclin's dreams of running had just been dashed.

The Tiger tight ends trembled as they watched the show,

A Crimson and Cream luster set the horizon aglow.

When what to their wondering eyes should they find,

but a miniature Schooner, seven National Titles behind.

With a wizened old driver, skilled in leading his troops,

they knew in a moment it must be Bob Stoops.

More rapid than Temple his players they came,

and he whistled and shouted and called them by name.

"On Bradford, on Joe John, now Patrick and Murray!

On Chris Brown! On Iglesias! On Hartley and Kelly!

To the top of the conference! To the top of it all!

Now dash their hopes! Dash their dreams! Dash away all!"

And then in a twinkling, the Tigers fought back a scream,

and Chase saw the last of his Heisman trophy dream.

The defense drew in their breath and looked all around,

and realized that their "Pig" was nowhere to be found.

Bob's eyes how they twinkled, his coaches how merry!

As they carried on the legacy left them by Barry.

Gary's sad little face and a fear in his belly,

he shook on the field as his knees turned to jelly.

Pinkel spoke not a word, and the ball they couldn't carry,

Stoops filled up the scoreboard and then turned to Gary.

And laying his hand on the shoulder of his friend,

he gave Pinkel a nod and said, "Like Norman again."

Bob sprang to the Schooner, to his team gave a shout,

to the BCS they flew and left Mizzou down and out.

And we heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,

"Boomer Sooner to All and to All a Good Night!"

Christ

2006-08-28T01:38:00.000-05:00

Yay! I finally got another tattoo! I spent all week trying to come up with what I wanted, but it wasn't until the thrilling class of genetics that I drew this up. I went to Skinsations in Norman and the guys there were AWESOME! Everyone should go there to get a tattoo! I know many have questions, so just read below for the story behind the tattoo...

Two years ago I came to the University of Oklahoma. I never really had any religious beliefs and I did my best to not even think about God. Life was all about me and pleasing myself in any way I saw fit. I quickly became friends with three girls that lived down the hall from me: Lauren, Brittany, and Ann. These girls showed me that life was about more than pleasing yourself. The way they lived their lives made me feel empty and wonder what I was missing. On October 12, 2004, I accepted Christ. I realized I was a sinner and that there was nothing I could do to fix it. The thought of spending eternity in hell was frightening, but I didn’t have to spend eternity in hell. None of us do. Christ died for our sins–the ones we’ve done and the ones we will do. All we have to do is accept that we are sinners, repent for those sins and accept that Christ is the only way. Since that day I’ve done my best to follow Him. I’ve had my struggles along the way, but He has always been there. I know that some of you reading this are hearing it for the first time, while others are just being reminded. This summer was a real struggle for me and a confusing time. I got the tattoo as a constant reminder of the decisions I have made and will make and those who have been there for me. I hope this has answered some of the questions that have been asked! Feel free to ask me some more!

I'm in awe....again

2006-07-31T01:01:00.000-05:00

So, I'm in awe again, but this time it has nothing to do with the internet. In fact it has to do with my hand. Last night my hand got shut in a car door.

The door shut.
All the way.
My fingers were dangling.
I guess you get the picture.

That's not what I'm awe about, though. What's amazing is the fact that my hand is almost fine. It aches a bit and one spot is a little bruised and swollen, but nothing anybody would notice unless they were paying close attention.

How does that happen??

I'm not sure yet, but I know the first thing that went through my mind was, "Thank goodness I'm left handed!!" (my right hand got shut in the door)

Little did I realize at that point that I use my right hand frequently while driving to shift gears....ouch.

I'm in awe

2006-07-26T00:40:00.000-05:00

Wow. I think that I'm in love. Some of you may have heard of the amazing internet invention known as Stumble upon, but let me share what I have found.

http://www.sjgames.com/illuminati/politics.html

I happened to have accidently clicked my Stumble! button when I came upon this website. I think my sister and I cried from laughing so hard. I feel like I learned so much! Now, where can I get some cows...

Isn't he cute!!

2006-07-11T00:14:00.000-05:00

adopt your own virtual pet!

Friends

2006-06-27T14:58:00.000-05:00

So, I recently realized how thankful I am for my friends. This is probably because over half of them are around the country and around the world and I miss them so much! God is so great for the people he has placed in my life. I'm so thankful for the influence they've had on me--good and bad. Without my friends I wouldn't be who I am today. I hope I don't take you guys and gals for granted and give you the love and respect that you deserve. Sometimes I have problems expressing my gratefulness, so thank you to all who call me a friend!

Just some pictures for fun

2006-06-20T00:13:00.000-05:00

Thuganomics

2006-06-17T22:47:00.000-05:00

So, right now I'm in Edmond with Paigie and we happened to be perusing a website for Myspace. In particular, we were looking at the "glitter words". Man, you could just spend HOURS looking at these things. There are a few that I really enjoyed and wanted to share with my fellow man.

First,

WHAT?!?!?! I was really confused what this meant. So, I used my favorite resource in times like these--dictionary.com. However, there was no such word found. I did find though that thug means a cutthroat or ruffian; also hoodlum. In addition, -ics means science, art, study, or knowledge of, or skill in. So, I've concluded the definition of "thuganomics" is the skill in being a hoodlum. Kinda scary if you think about it. Sheesh, kids these days...

NEXT!

Okay, so I understand this one. It's Usher genius. I love him.

Next,

Hawt?!?!?! People! It's called dictionary.com!!! Use it! The youth of america is going down the drain!
Now, I'm going to leave you with my favorite. Peace. I hope you enjoyed my post. Holla!

I'm back! I love the Sooners!

2006-06-13T13:29:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I said I'd post when I got back from Texas. Well, I got back Friday and it is now Tuesday. Whoops. Anywho, the trip was great!! The drive kinda stunk, but I survived. Texas is HUGE! I trudged through mud and water, got a sunburn, had a close encounter with a snake(totally non-poisonous), heard enough German that I should know the language now(but I don't), ate a TON of great food, went to Half-Price Books(LOVE it), went to a true grocery market, and I even spent a whole day on the University of Texas' campus in Austin. It was CRAZY! I never thought I'd see the day--or so many right-side up longhorns!

Here's a picture I took at one of the field sites we went to. I got to see some massive tadpoles!

Texas! Here I come!

2006-06-04T22:29:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I thought I would give a quick update to all those who miss me and want to know what's going on in my life. Well...

Tonight I had the most amazing steak ever and my stomach is very full. And it kinda hurts. Oh well...
Happy Birthday Jacob!

Mom is doing well and we've had an amazing time! We also went home this weekend and I got to see my sister and some dear friends. It was grand!
Tomorrow, I will be leaving at 7:00 am and riding to Brownsville and Austin to collect some fishies. I get to wade around in ponds and streams! Pray for no ticks and leeches! Therefore, I don't know when I'll be able to get online and check my email or facebook. So, I'm not ignoring you if I don't message you back!
Hmmmm, I can't think of anything else right now...have a great week and I'll post again when I get back!

My Mom!

2006-05-27T01:36:00.000-05:00

Well, the boxes are still lying around here and there are additional stacks of papers and clothes. I would like to say that I have no idea when I'm going to clean it up, but I must within the next three days. That's because my mom is coming on Monday to spend TWO WEEKS with me! I'm SO excited, but if she were to see my room right now I wouldn't hear the end of it. :) Anyways, yay!

Also, O-week is over!!!!!! That means some friends will be back tomorrow! They won't be here for long, though, since many will be leaving again soon. However, we'll be watching X-Men 3 tomorrow!! What, what! I can't wait!

Oh yeah.

Many friends also left this morning for Project Impact. Some are on their way to Chicago (a trip I remember all too well--there and back) and others are trekking it to L.A. Safe travel to all and I'll be praying for you! I hope I get to visit!

My New Home

2006-05-22T00:16:00.000-05:00

Welp, I'm officially moved into my new home. I'm only next door but it's still a change. It only took me a little last night and all of today to get moved in. I hate having so much stuff, and a lot of it is definitely going to disappear this summer. Thanks to Crumpy, Ryan, Lindsay, and Tygre for your help! Right now I have my computer and my bed together. Tomorrow I hope to empty some of the boxes around me and make it a little less crowded. Change is good.

This week I get to start my research!!! I won' t do anything tomorrow, but I have a meeting with my professor, Ingo Schlupp, Tuesday. I'm so excited!!!!!!

On a sadder note, I just worked my last week at the preschool for a while. Those kids are going to be having conversations with me the next time I see them! Well, maybe I'll just have to go visit...

Also, right now most of my friends are either at O-week, Project Chicago, or Project LA. Next week even more friends will be gone :( There will be a few stragglers hanging back that I'll get to spend some time with, though. That's good. It's going to be a long summer! Good luck to all!

Who needs a shug?

2006-05-20T21:43:00.000-05:00

Ryan!

The Power of Keys

2006-05-12T23:52:00.000-05:00

Keys
I have recently acquired multiple keys.
Silver keys and gold keys.
Man, my purse is heavy!
I don't know why, but these things make me feel important.
Yeah, I can open doors...

How do Amazon mollies obtain sperm from males of other species???

2006-05-05T09:37:00.000-05:00

Well, the verdict is in! I got the scholarship and I'm going t be studying Amazon mollies in the Zoology Department. This is an example of the girls I'm going to be hanging with all summer long. I hope that by the end of the summer I'll understand a little more about them. They live in an interesting situation--they're an all female species! Well, this seemed great to me at first, but I had to be honest with myself, how well could we all get along in a world full of females? We couldn't! Even though the Amazon mollies clone themselves, they need a little help from the males of other species. Without the sperm of males to trigger embryonic development, their species would cease to exist. Maybe that's what I'm supposed to learn from these girls.

No matter how much we want to complain about guys, we can't live without them.

Confessions of a suffering klepto

2006-04-19T00:02:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a girl who went to OU. She was a good girl most of the time, but she had a slight problem. Well, some might call it a huge problem. She was what you might call a klepto. However, after many bouts of thievery she turned away from her foolish ways. Then, one dark and windy night, she couldn't resist the old impulses. She saw the key and grabbed it. She knew she shouldn't have, but it was so easy! When the owner didn't realize, she just laughed to her self and went on with the night. Soon, it was time for the owner of the key to leave. He went to his car, but soon he realized he wasn't going to get far. After a short search, the girl had her laugh and returned the key. She knew she was in trouble and that the war had begun again. She only had one thing to say...

Bring it on!!!!

My Sister's Coming!!

2006-04-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

In less than 6 hours my sister, Tiffany, and I will be together! Yay! I'm so excited that she gets to see where I live and meet some of my awesome friends. Sadly we won't be going to Vespers because we're going the see Yellowcard!!!! Hopefully, though, I can find time to study for my test I have in the morning. Two down and one to go! We're going to be here tomorrow night and go home Saturday morning. I don't know what we're going to do since the majority of people will be out of town. I'm sure we can figure something out though!

The Dragon

2006-04-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

Here he is everyone! The one and only, Norbert!

This is my new little friend and the new addition to our house. We hope to spend long nights talking to eachother and getting to be best buds. Eventhough he doesn't talk much, he's a great listener. We're learning to control his fire-breathing abilities right now and I'm currently looking for a bigger cage. Please feel free to come and visit us anytime!

And I'm still awake

2006-03-22T01:32:00.000-06:00

That's all I have...

I LOATHE papers

2006-03-21T23:52:00.000-06:00

Just a quick howdy do. Right now Allison and I are "writing" our papers for our class tomorrow. Honestly, I don't know why the caged bird sings. Can someone please tell me!?!? Anyways, while finding better things to do, Allison found a fun game to enrich our brains. Please, by all means, enjoy!!

http://www.killsometime.com/games/Game.asp?ID=428

All my tests are over!(till after Spring Break that is)

2006-03-09T22:40:00.000-06:00

Well, I did it...I finished my tests, all four of them. Praise God that I woke up in time for all of them and I did get to study a little bit. I'm not to worried about them though. What's done is done. It's in God's hands now. And the professors' I guess.
So, update for all of ya'll that are curious about what I'm doing this summer. I plan to apply for the Adams Scholarship in Zoology that will allow me to devote my time to research this summer. (I won't have to work :)) I've been talking to Dr. Ingo Schlupp in the Zoology department and I think we've come up with a plan. I won't bore you with the details but I will tell you that my research will involve Amazon mollies. These fish are an all female species that reproduces asexually. However, they need the sperm of males from other species to trigger embryogenesis. I don't know why, but I find this incredibly intriguing!! (Yeah, I'm a nerd.)
Anyways, enough with the science talk, if I don't get the scholarship I'll either be taking a class or still doing the research--I'll just be working :( Either way, I'll be here in Norman praying for all my friends that are traveling all over the world!!

There, I updated Sarah.

So, my birthday is over...

2006-03-07T00:04:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm finally 20. Whew, I feel old. Anyways, I'm finally starting a blog. I know what you're thinking. What exciting things happen in Felicia's life that she feels like she needs to plaster them on the world wide web? Truthfully, I don't know, but it could be fun!
So, I basically started this blog tonight to let everyone know that I'm living with a roommate gifted with knowing things! just knowing things that have never been said, or mentioned or anything! Short story is that she guessed something that I could not deny. I tried, but it was beyond my power as my face turned crimson and I stopped breathing. Welp, I'm an idiot. Maybe from now on I should just tell her everything since she knows everything anyways. This way I won't have to turn colors or lose my breath anymore. Oh, I love you roomie!
Thanks everyone for my birthday wishes or gifts!!!!
Sorry to all who missed out on my rad party and the awesome masks!!!!!! Grrrrrrrr...