Today and Tomorrow

The Best Mock Court Preparation

2012-02-26T03:07:00.000-08:00

Friday, I participated in the 1L Mock Court Competition. Our team did not move on to the next round, but it was an awesome experience. My co-counsel was great and delivered an amazing closing, and we had the best witnesses. The judges gave us some really good feedback and critique. I now know I have a nervous tic of saying "and" and "thank you." Apparently, my co-counsel and I also made a good team with a balance of hard and soft, with me being soft. Who would have guessed?! I think the overall experience was invaluable.

One of the best parts, though, was the preparation and practice I did with Rosebud. She played the roles of the opposing counsel, the bailiff, the judge, and the various witnesses--all in immediate succession. She was a riot. As the teacher-petitioner she would throw out a wink and a nod to her scenario boyfriend out in the gallery somewhere. She had me in stitches, gave me helpful feedback, and was much better than talking to an inanimate object. I am so lucky! She did say it was weird seeing me in a different role that she had ever seen me in before.

As great as the experience was, I passed out from exhaustion on the couch soon after arriving home that night. It was a long day. I am so happy that someone from our section whom I admire is in the final round on Tuesday.

Mothers in the Legal Profession Roundup No. 241

2012-02-25T19:02:00.002-08:00

Butterflyfish uses names of Whitney Houston songs to round up the Mothers in the Legal Profession blog posts this week here!

Geographic Dyslexia

2012-02-25T12:31:00.000-08:00

I am telling you that geographic dyslexia is a real condition. Given a choice at an intersection, I will turn the wrong way. I don't remember roads even if I have just been there. My daughter rates a trip by how may times I have to turn around. If I am inside a building, I have absolutely no clue regarding my orientation to anything outside the building.

Compensation mechanisms: I print out directions for any trip (there and back), I leave early for every trip, I try to do a dry run if it is an important event.

I had an interview for an internship on Thursday. A call-back second interview, no less. It has been a busy week and I did not do a dry run. I did print out directions and I did leave early (over twice the anticipated amount of travel time).

I got hopelessly lost and helplessly watched the minutes tick away as I got nowhere closer to my destination. Finally, I saw some city workers doing some landscaping and asked them. One gave me perfect directions involving only three turns. Even when I got to the correct building, it was not marked in any way that I could see, name or street number, and I asked the guy in the parking guard shack if that was indeed the building.

I still had to walk from the parking lot, go through security, take an elevator to the 10th floor, and walk up to the 11th floor, which was under construction, and it was already after my appointment time. I seriously considered just turning around and going home. Who would bother to interview someone who could not be bothered to be on time?

I didn't give up. I called the phone number and left a message that I was on my way and my apology.

I got there ten minutes after my appointment. No one was outside a closed conference room door (since the area was under construction, there was no reception area, no one moving between offices). I decided to wait and see what happened. Someone came up and said they would be with me shortly. I collected my thoughts. A few minutes later the previous interviewee exited the room. They were running over! I think they would not have even known I was late. But, I left that message.

I felt like the interview went really well.

Of course, afterwards, they will have heard that message.

So, I see this going one of two ways:

I was amazingly composed considering how late and flustered I truly was. Thus, I am great under pressure and when things are not going well.
I was late. Inexcusable.

Those were my thoughts when I got home. I checked my e-mail just to see how the rest of my life was going.

I had an offer of an internship from a different interview the week prior!

I have to let them know by the end of next week. It is an amazing opportunity, so I am thrilled.

What a ride!

"I give unto men weaknesses that they may be humble."

-- Ether 12:27

Sometimes Your Daughter is Sick

2012-02-23T08:34:00.000-08:00

Rosebud has been sick, but she thought she would try to go to school yesterday.

I took her to seminary and then drove to the parking garage to secure my parking space before boarding the train. As I did a little bit of reading there, a text came in that said, "I think I should come home."

I left my beautiful parking spot and drove back to the high school area, picked up Rosebud, and delivered her home.

I drove back, but this time I parked two blocks away from the train station ("Garage Full"), in a steady rain. I caught the last morning commuter.

And I still made it to my first class on time! (I did not speed. That is just how early our mornings start.)

Pretty flowers a neighbor brought us from her garden yesterday.

Mothers in the Legal Profession Roundup No. 240

2012-02-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

Attorney at Large created the "Exploration Edition" of Mothers in the Legal Profession Roundup. Read about our adventures here.

Interview Extreme

2012-02-17T19:16:00.000-08:00

I had an interview this morning. Before I left for the interview and before Rosebud left for school, I told her I was feeling a little nervous. Without missing a beat, she said, "Don't be nervous. Be excited!" and then flowed directly into a Kristen Wiig excitement-imbuing impersonation from this Saturday Night Live skit. Rosebud's rendition was flawless.

It must have worked. I felt like the interview went well. Of course, it is incredibly competitive, and they interviewed a lot of people yesterday and today (each interview was only 10 to 15 minutes long).

We will see.

Worthy Lofty Aspirations

2012-02-16T05:45:00.000-08:00

I think I am a little stressed. Apparently, that goes hand-in-hand with law school?

So, the background program that was playing in my mind yesterday morning was that I need to write two thank-you notes that are genuine and unique enough to recall to the interviewers' minds who I am, put the stew in the crock pot, even though I am doing better, the Property reading is not done yet for today's class, I need to get the car fixed, how do I get my car to the garage when I only have one car, how am I going to live without a car while it is at the garage, especially with important interviews coming up, how much is it going to cost, will the car start all the times I need it to today and the next days, I got an e-mail about a call-back interview for Thursday or Friday but have not heard back further, I have a tough meeting later this morning I am not looking forward to but will be glad to have over, I still need to print stuff out for that meeting . . .

Then, a series of events yesterday morning overlaid the general stress. Finally, there was the straw, and I snapped. It was only eight words to Rosebud, but they were full of anger. I hate that. A spirit of anger drives out every other good thing.

I felt horrible all day.

Then, I went to the J. Reuben Clark Law Society meeting, and what was our discussion about? The "What Do You Want To Be Remembered For" chapter from Dallin H. Oaks' book Life's Lessons Learned. We talked about this idea as it relates both professionally and personally.

Ugghh. I don't want Rosebud (or anyone) to remember me for my angry words Wednesday morning.

I want to be remembered for better things, a better character than that.

Moms in the Legal Profession Roundup No. 239

2012-02-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Magic Cookie lived up to her promises and posted a fantastic Roundup.

Weird Parents and Colors

2012-02-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

"My parents are so weird! Where did God find you people?!?"

Such was Rosebud's assessment of her lineage a couple of days ago. I don't even remember what I was doing that was apparently odd behavior.

On a related note, have you seen the different personality categories that are designated by different colors? We did an exercise with one type during law school orientation, and then Rosebud just recently did one at school. It is very similar to Myers-Briggs personality types. Anyway, she shared with me how her teacher presented the material, and we were both dying laughing. Then, the hilarity continued as we assessed me, other family members, and friends. It is amazing how accurate it can be in describing behaviors, feelings, motivators, reactions to kinds of situation, and your own areas of possible "limitations." We both agree that it would be helpful in parenting to know what type your child is--not to pigeonhole them, but to understand them better.

It was fun to laugh so hard. I am glad she has a good teacher.

Resolution Revisited

2012-02-09T05:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, resolutions need to be tweaked. I made a resolution to have my reading for the week done by Monday night.

It hasn't been happening. In fact, I have been drowning. There are multiple reasons: Applying for summer positions, coming home from school earlier because of commitments with Rosebud, having most of my books at school during the snow closures, etc.

The resolution is not bad, just my plan for attaining it. Sometimes, that is where the tweaking needs to happen.

New plan: Keep all my books excepts torts at home (the other professors don't use them in class much) and do more of my studying at home than at school (a difference from last semester). I can study at home in the morning (I am up because Rosebud has a 0-hour class)--or even in the parking garage at the train station so I get a parking spot.

So, that is the revised plan of action. Beginning implementation now . . .

My new "law library."

Moms in the Legal Profession #238

2012-02-04T17:59:00.000-08:00

The Weekly Moms In the Legal Profession Roundup is hosted on a rotating basis. This is my first time hosting it, so if I left anyone out, I am very sorry. Please let me know so I can add you to my list!

Transitions:

Lag Liv is moving to Fort Worth, dealing with all the stuff to do, and looking for recommendations from people familiar with the area.
Attorney at Large has moved, unpacked, and is trying to settle into new routines.
In a Minute accepted a new job and is enjoying family one-on-one times.
Adventures of Sammy B. and Little Family makes plans to return to work next month.
Mommy and Sin City is actively looking for a new job with faith that everything will work out.

Health and Trauma:

Attorney Work Product has a child knocking out teeth.
Guitar Picks & Apron Strings has helpful advice for dealing with PPD.
Forget about sitting on the bladder, Wild North West's baby is sitting on her kidney.
Legally Certifiable's mother needs surgery and niece has an appendectomy. She is feeling stretched too thin.

Questionable Food Choices:

Magic Cookie reflects on no bananas for Christmas.
Nonsense and Frippery learns about the great "cookie" find from a text message.

Fitness Fun:

Reluctant Grownup solicits and receives workout music suggestions.
Happily a Law Mama gives helpful tips on exercising during pregnancy.

Families:

Adventures of Out Law Mama has an outing to the science museum.
Fumbling for Truth reflects on one-year birthday in a letter.
Mommy Madness introduces the next generation to Star Wars. Princess Leia is determined to be a tough girl.

Everyone should visit But I Do Have a Law Degree's post to go on a vicarious vacation.

Should You Go to Law School?

Attorney at Large contributes to the conversation on whether you should go to law school with an interesting perspective.

To all the football fans out there--happy Super Bowl Sunday tomorrow!

(If you would like to be a part of the Roundup, send me a message or an e-mail and I will pass it along--since I am a new kid on the block.)

Background Checks

2012-02-04T11:47:00.000-08:00

I had an interview yesterday.

I brought my new suit in my Ogio garment bag

that turns into a duffel bag shape for easy commuter carrying.

I got dressed, put my hair in an awesome bun, checked it in the mirror, eventually decided I wanted my hair down, fixed it that way, checked it in the mirror again, put on my suit jacket, and packed up all my stuff. Two professional-looking-could-have-been-interviewers women came and left during the end of this process.

I glanced over my shoulder into the mirror one last time as I started to leave.

Wait.

Was there something white in the middle of my back?

What was that?

Really? I have an interview with a county prosecutor’s office with an anti-theft thingee in the middle of my back?

I e-mailed the university bookstore to see if they had a thingee remover and would take it off for me. They graciously agreed to see if their thingee remover was compatible with the offending mark-of-a-thief. It wasn’t compatible.

Needless to say, I did not wear the jacket.

And yes, the prosecutor's office does do thorough background checks on interns.

To do: Take suit and receipt back to store where purchased to have this remedied--especially since, when I got home, there was an e-mail arranging an interview with the other county’s prosecutor’s office. (I live in a town conveniently near the border of two counties.)

Fun Inspiration

2012-01-31T08:28:00.000-08:00

I have an on-campus interview with one of the local prosecuting attorney's offices on Friday. So, Rosebud and I went shopping last night--I need a suit. Found the suit. But, the highlight of my evening was Rosebud trying on suits. It was just for fun while I was trying on mine. She looked amazing (and cute). She took a photo with her phone and informed me she was going to keep it for inspiration--that someday she will need a hot suit to wear to work too.

In other news, remember that application I needed to finish for another great summer position? I had been assuming I could e-mail it like all the others. No. They only gave a mailing address. Luckily, I decided to study at home yesterday and to work on the application fairly early in the morning, and I was so relieved to have my car start all the times I needed it to. I hand delivered it. I am enjoying actually seeing all these different places. I am getting a little exhausted from always going 110% of capacity, though.

Elementary Corrections in Legal Writing

2012-01-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

Beginning in elementary school, Rosebud has often had the opportunity to do "test corrections" to earn a somewhat higher grade.

When I got legal writing Memo 1 back, I diligently read all the comments and seriously contemplated them. I even made notes on them and referred back to my notes when writing Memo 2.

When I got Memo 2 back, I was anxiously awaiting its arrival because I wanted to use it for writing samples for summer applications, and one of the deadlines was fast approaching. I got it back, scrutinized the comments, and made revisions incorporating them. I was amazed that, despite my careful attention to the comments on the first memo, I was truly improving my writing skill as I actually applied the guidance in my own "test corrections" on the second memo.

When I had to dash off the rough draft of E-Memo, it was much better than it would have been had I not spent the time revising Memo 2 after the grade. This weekend, as I polished E-Memo into a final draft, I again realized it was probably much better for the earlier gratuitous revising experience.

So, I think making corrections, after you have the grade and even though it will do nothing for your grade on that particular assignment, has real value for the learning process and future work. If only we had the time! The improvement would definitely be worth it.

I think those grade-school teachers were on to something.

Taxes and Financial Aid Form Season

2012-01-28T18:45:00.000-08:00

Tax return--did last night.

FAFSA--did this morning.

Curious about those snuggly trees in the background?

Explanation here.

Workshops on resumes, cover letters, and interviewing--attended this afternoon. Rosebud came along for the adventure. We traveled via the bus system because I am never sure my car will start, and I did not want to leave it in paid parking in the city if it made its final refusal while we were there. We did the full bus linkage of transfers because, while I enjoy walking The Hill, it is something you build up to and would have been more of a punishment than an outing for Rosebud today. Besides, she wanted to experience the bus-riding community.

White boards are so instrumental in my life--teaching, brainstorming,

studying, communicating, and reminders/to-do lists to myself!

Piano lesson--teaching in just a moment.

E-memo--hopefully finishing up tonight. Due tomorrow night.

Application for position I really want this summer--to be completed, I don't know when, but it is due Monday.

Car diagnosis and repair--no clue. We did make it home from the free transit parking deck in our town, though.

In a nutshell, it is that time of the year.

People who are applying to start law school in the fall, get the FAFSA done. Here is the link. (Be careful and go to this link, the one with .gov in the address. There is another site that has an official-looking address and comes up earlier in a search, but it is a service that wants you to pay them to help you fill out this simple form.) You may want to review your credit report too (some information and a link near the end of this post).

People who are first or second-year law students, don't forget to get your FAFSA done. It is easy to put it on a back burner, having compartmentalized it with the "application process" now that you're not applying anymore but are crazy busy with classes and applications for this summer.

You can fill out an FAFSA based on your estimated taxes and then file a corrected one once the taxes are done. But, it is important to get it done soon. Money is a crucial and a scarce commodity.

Almost Hit By a Car

2012-01-27T17:38:00.000-08:00

. . . and it was my fault, and I knew better. But, I wasn't hit. So, that's good.

I cross a four-lane road on my school route. I am always careful. I know well enough from emergency work that just because a car in one lane stops to let a person cross at a crossing area does not mean that a car in the next lane traveling the same direction will also stop. I always make eye contact with both drivers.

This morning a big metro bus stopped to let me cross. He was in the lane closest to me. Nice. They don't always stop. So, I started to lope across the first two lanes while re-confirming that the two opposite lanes of travel were still clear.

I popped out from in front of that bus right in front of a car who had not been planning on stopping--and that driver would have never seen me because of the bus blocking his view.

As I continued on my way, my mind kindly played pictures for me of my mangled leg. My knee shuddered at its own vulnerability.

But I focused on what made this day different. Like I said, I always check the intentions of both drivers. I realized I do this through my ability to see over a car to the other lane's car. I couldn't see over or through the bus, and my mind decided that nothing was there to be seen.

I am so grateful to still be in one piece today.

Note to future self and fellow pedestrians--peek around that big ol' metro bus!

Blessed with Power, But Not at the Schools

2012-01-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

The icicles framed our world a couple of nights ago.

Just as predicted, the temperatures rose, snow turned to rain, and our world thawed as quickly as it froze.

Saturday, I made a run to the grocery store. The devastation to the trees in my neighborhood looked like we had been hit by a tornado. The majority of houses were fine, so that is where the similarities thankfully ended. But the world was strewn with downed trees, broken branches still dangling haphazardly high in the air, and power lines draping from their poles.

You have no idea how lucky we were. I probably have no idea how lucky we were. Quite literally, everyone around us has lost power for days on end. We have not. Many, many people have had entire trees come down. We did not.

Today, there was the buzz of anticipation in our home--school again tomorrow, a regular routine again tomorrow. Backpacks to pack, alarms to set, lunch to plan, homework to ensure was complete, hectic schedules to coordinate, Shuffle to charge . . . there is life in being busy. Even when it is too busy.

Then the news began to spread.

No school for Rosebud?!?

Apparently, there are quite a few schools in the district still without power.

It is actually a letdown for both of us. Snow days are only fun with the initial freedom--and with the snow.

Time and Energy Trap Spotlighted

2012-01-20T16:19:00.000-08:00

Rosebud making good use of her snow day and taking her community

involvement to heart by clearing ice dams from the storm drain. The threat of

flooding is the big concern now.

Over the last few days, questions have wasted my time and consumed energy:

At nights:

Will Rosebud have school tomorrow?
Will I have classes tomorrow?

Rosebud does not have school tomorrow but apparently I still do. Get up early to check on mine.

If I do have classes tomorrow, is it still too dangerous to get there and home again?
I don't think I will have classes tomorrow. Do I still do now whatever it takes to get this reading done?
Everyone around us has lost power. What if we lose power and I have classes tomorrow? Do I take Rosebud with me and let her wander around the city likes she wants? I don't want to leave her in a freezing, dark house alone. However, I am not thrilled about her wandering the streets either.

In the mornings:

Why haven't they called off classes for me yet?
By the time they make a decision, will I make it in time for my first class, given it takes so long with travel conditions the way they are?
If I go back to bed, what time do I get up in order to check the status again but still have time to get out the door?
If I leave, will I be able to get back home again?

Yesterday, I wrote a post about priorities.

Today, I am looking at these last four days as a concentrated example of what indecisiveness and lack of information does to you. In this focused version, it was easy to see what an energy and time drain these questions created. I think they waste the same amount of time and energy when spread out over a longer period as well. Sometimes, we can't do much about the lack of information we need to make the best decision. But, we just need to do the best we can with the information we do have and keep moving forward. Priorities help with that. Recognizing what is being lost to indecisiveness helps too.

Not that I wasted a lot of time or energy during the last few days on these questions. I just found any time and energy I wasted to be so completely frustrating!

Your Priorities are Yours

2012-01-19T15:17:00.000-08:00

Don't let anyone else try to determine your priorities for you--even if they are well-meaning, inspirational, or possibly make you feel guilty. There is a place for motivation and persistence. There is also a place for shifting priorities.

My former BJJ coach recently wrote a piece that was meant to be motivational (and I still think he is the greatest coach out there). Basically, he describes the seemingly insurmountable obstacles he overcame to get where he is now. He is absolutely right that consistency is paramount, that training once a week consistently is better than training four days in one week but no other times that month.

While I agree with so much that he says, the overall tone seems to be saying if you want something, you should let nothing stand in your way.

But, there are some things that are unique to him: 1) He made (and planned to make) BJJ his career. 2) He has no children.

If you are in his same circumstances, then certainly, nothing should stand in your way.

My daughter won't always be at home. Law school (training for my career) is a short two and half more years. I imagine that then my priorities will shift once again--and I will be back!

Make sure you are the one who determines your priorities. Then, consistently and intensely pursue them!

When snow turns to freezing rain.

No school for either of us today.

Snowy Days and Schooling

2012-01-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Monday, we had a little snow. It was Martin Luther King Day, so the snow did not change anything.

Being Mom, on Tuesday, I got up at 4:45 to check the school closures. Nothing. I started getting ready and checked again. Rosebud's school changed from school to a two-hour delay to no school. Nothing posted for me. I kept checking. Nothing. I live up a steep hill that is often closed in the snow, and we had "100% chance" of more snow starting at 1:00 pm. So, I decided to walk the two miles to the train so my car would not be stranded at the bottom of the hill when I needed to come back home. (It turns out, they did not need to close the hill.) The problem: The sidewalks were so slushy-icy that almost every step I took going down the hill lost traction and threatened a traumatic fall. The end result: I was slow and missed the last commuter train out of town.

I took the bus, which takes an hour instead of 20 minutes.

Upon arrival in the city, there was no snow at all (which would be why my law school did not close). But, by the time I made it to school, I had missed my first class (and walked three miles).

Video taken by Rosebud while I was away at school. This is why she had no school, but I did.

I went to my other two classes though and made it back home. Total commute time yesterday: Five hours.

That put a real dent in my e-memo writing time, which was due, via e-mail, by 11:00 pm. I literally clicked "send" at 11:00 pm. I have never cut it so close nor done such an awful job. It was just the rough draft, but, still, I cringe to have my name attached to it.

This morning, I repeated the same morning routine: Up at 4:45 to check the school closures. (Even though the weather predictions were 100% for a bad snow storm and other schools had posted closures last night, neither of ours had posted any closures or delays.) Rosebud's school closed for the day. Nothing on mine. Even though I should have been getting ready if I was going to go to school, I went back to sleep until 6:30 (I was exhausted from yesterday). I got up and checked again--closed! So relieved.

The path Rosebud so nicely shoveled for our pets today.

I have been working on that editing project. So nice not to have school, giving an easier cushion of time, and so nice that I can work over the internet!

White Sophie in white snow!

Welcome Back -- To Summer Applications

2012-01-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

My first week back at school has felt more like finals time--the feeling of being overloaded and under pressure. Deadlines for summer positions I am interested in are here. The very first deadline was yesterday, and it required the most things submitted as initial materials--writing sample, references, and unofficial transcript, in addition to the usual cover letter and resume. Other positions ask for those things later, after an initial screening. But--

I did not get memo 2 back from the professor until Saturday and did not meet with her until Monday. I needed to cut it down from 12 pages to 7 or 8, and I wanted to talk to her about the best way to do that (in general terms, obviously).
Grades were still trickling in all week.
Classes started Monday, so I was trying to catch professors in their offices (not knowing their new office hours), getting them copies of my resume, and writing a bio.

I hand delivered that application on the way into school on Thursday morning.

Today, I need to finish submitting cover letters (each specific to the position) and resumes for organizations that will be interviewing at our school during a job fair.

Friday, is the due date for another position I am really interested in. I would like to get it done today because I know I will have some editing work to complete between Tuesday night and Friday morning.

Meanwhile, there is still the regular studying to do.

Amazing sky on the way home.

Literary Analysis

2012-01-09T17:10:00.000-08:00

My bachelor's degree was in English literature. I love literature. I love analysis.

But, even as an English major, sometimes there is the question--did the author really mean all this deep symbolism? Sometimes, isn't a good story just a good story? And shouldn't that be okay?

My daughter is coming up against those questions in her English class this year. Her teacher has them analyzing everything--paintings, their feelings, and, of course, literature. She is on analysis overload and beginning to get a little impatient with it.

The other day, her teacher asked, "How do you know if you have over analyzed something?" Rosebud's response in class: "If you have spent more than two minutes on it." (In her defense, she is pretty much always doing background thinking.)

Yesterday, just confirmed what she had basically already decided--English teachers just need to stop.

English Teacher saw the first movie in the Twilight series and decided to do some analysis with his students. He asked them why it was set in Forks, Washington.

Rosebud had read an interview with Stephenie Meyer way back at the beginning of the Twilight surge. That specific question was asked of her. She, the author, said she looked up on the internet which place in the US had the most rainfall (it works into the storyline to have cloudy days).

That interview and that specific response were playing in Rosebud's mind as English Teacher proceeded to expound on Forks being an analogy for the decision that Bella must make in choosing between Jacob and Edward--her personal fork in the road.

Nice analogy. If people read the Twilight series a hundred years from now, they will probably come up with the same interpretation. But, literary analysis just lost all credibility with Rosebud.

It does make you wonder about some of the things we come up with when we analyze things.

The Norm is the Norm, Regardless

2012-01-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

My first assignment for international law includes excerpts from Abdullahi v. Pfizer (2009)*. The opinion in that case includes the following quote:

". . . even declarations of international norms that are not in and of themselves binding may, with time and in conjunction with state practice, provide evidence that a norm has developed the specificity, universality, and obligatory nature required for ATS [Alien Tort Statute] jurisdiction."

So, whether a country has signed an agreement or treaty or not, if the rest of the world comes to accept it and act in compliance with it, that norm of behavior is considered binding internationally.

I think I am going to like this class--because I find it interesting.

However, I did immediately look to see who was the original developer of the drug Rosebud is taking. Pfizer. Wouldn't you know. (Obviously, it is not the drug from the case, Trovan. But, still.)

(This concept is about legal and international relations implications. But, it has an interesting correlation as well. What do we want the norm of behavior to be as a world, a nation, or personally? In some ways, the norm can be binding on our lives, regardless of our personal exceptions to it. So, even while we incorporate acceptance and love, shouldn't we have an interest in what that norm becomes, in creating a better world?)

* 562 F.3d 163

Just as Well

2012-01-04T05:57:00.000-08:00

During the first week of law school, I stood in a very long line to get what was left over of my student loan check, what would be my living expenses for the next several months. I overheard two seasoned law students talking, one mentioning she only had $16 left in her checking account and she really needed this check. I was already worried about how my finances were ever going to work, and that conversation just heightened my concern.

But, as the semester progressed, things seemed to go better than expected. As Christmas approached, some very kind-hearted people reached out. Of course, I needed to buy next semester's books before the next loan check disbursement. One section for property has four books. My section has one, which I got used and in good condition from Amazon.com for about half price. I did get international law for my 1L spring elective. I was thrilled. I was also relieved when it only had one small paperback text required. Other 1L electives were not so lucky in the required texts department. I recognized all of these things as outright blessings that were having a cumulative effect. I was beginning to think I would have some money to roll over into next semester and that it would provide a safety net or could continue to roll forward . . .

Rosebud got sick. I have no idea how. We can't think of any "sick contacts." I finally took her to the doctor's office yesterday. I would have taken her Monday, but it was closed. They think she might have pneumonia. They wanted to do a chest x-ray but, since they were prescribing her antibiotics anyway, agreed that I could wait on that and only get it if she does not improve. So, doctor's visit, spirometry, Strep test, antibiotics, and prescription cough suppressant (poor kid has not been able to sleep well for days) and now I am ready for next semester's loan check.

So maybe no surplus left now, but that is what it was there for in the first place. I am glad it was there and that she now has the medicine she obviously needed. The timing was also nice--I did not have to worry about my class schedule at all.

And, so far, I am not sick. I am working really hard to keep it that way!

The Blogged Life of Men in the Legal Profession?

2012-01-02T13:44:00.000-08:00

Where are the men?

I rearranged my blog roll and divided it into categories. "Living Law" includes blogs written by people with or pursuing their law degree who also include posts about their everyday life--both working and at home, the whole balancing act that I find so fascinating.

"Practicing Law" includes blogs that are more one-sided, focused on the professional or academic. I include comics under this category. It is just focused, not necessarily all the same outlook.

When I separated the categories, one thing was clear--all the "Living Law" blogs were hosted by women.

The few blogs I have read written by men and not strictly focused on professional development have been awesome and I love their perspective. "Marlboro Man" has posted on Pioneer Woman before. It is one of my favorite posts on her blog. The Middle-aged Mormon Man has cracked me up and sometimes made me think. I liked his "fourth-quarter comeback" perspective when it came to forgotten 2011 resolutions.

So, I found a cowboy and a religious man. Where are the legal men? I like both perspectives on life and the law.

Does anyone know of (and like/recommend) any blogs written by men who are in the legal profession or law school that post about the day-to-day balance--their work and their outside life?

Resolve 2012

2012-01-01T10:01:00.000-08:00

2010 - The LSAT Project
2011 - The Law School Entry Project

drum roll please . . .

2012 - Project Continue Law School and Best Possible 1L Summer

In keeping with my goal accomplishment theory, the daily actions that will help me achieve the first part of my resolution:

* Have my reading for the coming week done by Monday night (I have no classes Mondays).

For the 1L Summer Resolution:

* Check the Career Development Board and Blog daily before dinner and make any resulting action plan.

There you have it. Obviously, I will try to maintain balance in my life, but when resolutions like these are so huge and life consuming, I like to keep it generally simple.

I wish reading assignments were posted. Classes start the week of January 9.

My "Resolutions in Reverse"

2011-12-30T18:56:00.000-08:00

I loved a post I read about Setting Goals Backwards*. Basically, the premise was to look back over the past year, see what you accomplished, and acknowledge those "resolutions" and accomplishments. I love it, because, especially around this time of year, I don't think we give ourselves credit for what we have already done. Instead, we beat ourselves up and vow to be amazing next year. (Don't get me wrong, tomorrow's post will be my vows to be amazing.)

In no particular order, here are some things I am proud of accomplishing last year:

1. I re-learned some rather difficult (for me) second-year algebra.

2. My daughter and I survived her learning how to drive, in good form, I think.

3. I applied to law school, was accepted, and then made the gut-wrenchingly difficult decision to take the plunge and quit a full-time job and go to school full time. Then, I feel like I managed to keep some semblance of balance between student, mom, and just being me.

4. I decided I would walk the mile uphill from the train to classes and then back (downhill, unlike many of our forebearers' plights), no matter the weather. I kept that promise to myself and loved it.

5. I did not miss a single regular class in my first semester of school.

6. I did make decisions balancing costs (time) versus benefits (possibility of academic help) and chose not to go to some study sessions and criminal law labs. I still am happy with those decisions.

7. I learned to trust more that there is enough* for us all and not so afraid to give of what I have (even if it is money from loans with interest accruing). I have never thought of myself as greedy and I have always paid tithing, but I am protective of what I feel I need to support myself and my daughter. That is the additional step in which I learned to be more trusting. I have been amazed.

8. I promised myself I would read the scriptures on the train in the mornings (on my Kindle). I did, and it was well worth it, a perfect way to start the day. Plus, I am stuck on the train, I can't do any chores or do any more to get ready to go out the door, so there is no rush.

9. I kept teaching my Sunday class once a month. I did not ask to be released from that position. I have gained a lot from continuing to teach and I am glad to know that there is enough of time (not just of money) to do things that are good.

10. For my car this year, I changed the headlights, the tail lights, the battery, and the windshield wipers. For the mechanical out there, I realize this is not difficult, but it was still an accomplishment in tackling the unknown for me. I did it.

What did you do this year? I am quite sure you did some amazing things. Congratulations on 2011!

*These two links are to external blogs. The rest are simply remembering my past year.

Dreaming of a Working Summer This Christmastime of Year

2011-12-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

I have had my Christmas fun. I enjoyed the relaxation. I enjoyed the lack of a set time schedule.

* * * I loved the fact that Rosebud passed her driving test for driver's ed (not DMV yet) yesterday! * * *

Now, it is on to the next 1L task: Finding my place for this summer. Applications are due (some already, some early January). So, I am updating my resume and then customizing it in some respects. I am writing individual cover letters. I am thinking about references and writing samples (waiting for the grade on my last legal writing memo, but probably should pull it out and start looking at it now).

Here's the rub--most of the really interesting opportunities are not paid. That means more loans just to stay alive during the summer.

There is one fascinating internship that does pay. There are two drawbacks, if I did get the position: 1) It is farther from my house than my school and I could not take the train. This would mean increased time away from home, paying for gas and wear on my car, and I think there might be a toll bridge involved; and 2) It is full-time during breaks from school, but 12-19 hours while classes are in session next year (by ABA rules, law students are not allowed to go to school full time and work 20 or more hours--we sign a declaration to that fact every semester).

It is the 12-19 hours that is weighing on me. I just don't know if it is a good idea. Add to that, I would probably have to drive to school some days in order to get to work--more gas money, toll money, and now parking at school.

But, it really is amazing and the only thing I have found that pays in actual money and not just in experience this summer.

So, while we all contemplate these issues, I will be working on application materials for all the positions that I am interested in, paid or not.

Fruit Cake: Embracing the Christmas Cliche

2011-12-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

I think fruit cake jokes are slowly becoming extinct. As new generations rise, the fruit cake is becoming forgotten and the jibes have lost their meaning.

I never had a fruit cake growing up. But, I was intrigued. What was this horrible thing?

When I found a recipe for Hazelnut Panforte in Bon Appetit in 2005, I knew I had to try it. This was a fruit cake I could really love. But, things always got too hectic.

Not this year. This year, I made it.

Roll out the jokes.

It started out as a lovely experience. I made my own candied orange peel. Everything was coming together. As it baked, it smelled like mulled cider (even though there were no apples or cider in it). The pan scraping was delicious.

Then, the force of tradition apparently took over. The recipe said to bake it for approximately 55 minutes "until bubbling slightly at edges and top appears dry." I started to smell it burning at 45 minutes! I had been checking its appearance, but the top never appeared dry to me. However, it was definitely burning when I pulled it out. (I do have trouble with my oven temperature sometimes.)

This afternoon I tried it. As I took off the springform pan, blackened crust crumbs went flying. One test jab with a knife and I knew I would never be able to cut it. I picked up the entire dense disc in my hands and broke it in half so I could try a little of the less-burned part in the middle.

It was incredibly chewy. Every once in a while I hit a little rock of what appeared to be the honey-sugar-butter mixture, so perhaps I did not get that up to the correct temperature (new thermometer I was not used to reading).

But, all things considered, it did taste delightful. I am going to try it again next year and see what it is like if it is not burned. My biggest concern is with how chewy it is. If I continue to make it and it is still this chewy, I may have to experiment with the recipe a little for that reason alone.

I love the leftover candied orange peel, though!

What is Christmas without at least one little fiasco?

Merry Christmas to Me

2011-12-22T00:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday:
We slept in.
We bought our Christmas tree.
We decorated our Christmas tree.
I made gingerbread cookies.

I think this is the first Christmas since my daughter was born that I have had time off around Christmas. When she was born, I owned my own transcription business and I always worked. Later, there were probably two Christmases when I worked standard work days. But, even when I worked so many years as a telecommunting transcriptionist from home, I often worked on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day because I was required to (illnesses and injuries apparently do not observe holidays). Regardless of whether I got the actual holidays off, I worked a lot around them.

So this has been a wonderful side benefit of going to law school. It is sort of making up for all those other years. How nice that the last few years that Rosebud will probably be at home, we get to create some fun memories together. I am so glad it wasn't too late.

And my house smells like pine tree and gingerbread--my house smells like Christmas.

She's a very lofty angel--her hair is getting a little smooshed up there.

Most of the gingerbread will be given away. (Good thing!)

Getting to be Just Mom

2011-12-20T05:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I was not a student.
I was not an editor.
I was not a teacher.

I was not anything but a mom. Of course, that title was inclusive of being a
Math tutor-in-residence,
Baker of chocolate chip cookies from scratch for a class party,
Texting consultant,
Relationship coach,
Friend, and
Bulwark of quiet, steady love against a storm of frustration-with-everything in a teenage life.

It is hard being a teenager sometimes. I remember.

It was nice that I was not trying to parcel out my time and attention and could focus where I was needed--at the right time. Today is Rosebud's last day of school before her winter break. I am so glad the timing worked out, although I wish I could have helped her with her math a little more along the way. She had been asking me for help before now.

It was also a good thing I had a nap earlier in the day in order to have the mental and emotional energy for that afternoon and evening. And, I am grateful for answered prayers--because sometimes last night, I simply did not know what I could do to help. I know I was guided to just be quiet at times, let her be, and be ready to tackle the homework and studying again with her when she was ready. I am sure, now, that that was the best response. I also had help in understanding those quadratic equations and realizing when I was teaching her something wrong!

Frankincense and myrrh

given to us by friends who have lived in the Middle East.

Exams Done, Craziness Not Quite

2011-12-19T07:02:00.000-08:00

This was the studying for a different final (civil procedure).

As promised, when I finished my four-hour criminal law exam Friday at 12:30, there was an editing project waiting in my e-mail inbox--47 pages with expected turnaround Sunday night. But, I had just successfully finished my first semester of law school (ie, I had just turned in a 12-page memo and taken four exams over basically a two-week period) and the weather was nice as I walked down to the bus (the train does not run midday). While I was waiting at the crosswalk, a stranger told me I looked beautiful. I must have been glowing just knowing that I was now done with exams.

Then came the editing job . . . and the teaching a class on Sunday . . . and making the fudge and mom things like grocery shopping and making dinner.

I went to bed at 5:00 am on Saturday night/Sunday morning. I went to bed at almost 2:00 am last night and was up at 5:00 am this morning.

I thought the craziness that comes with exams was supposed to be over?

The editing job is done. I need to (re)learn more algebra before Rosebud comes home because she needs help on that before her test tomorrow. I have not been the most attentive math tutor the past couple of days.

But first--I am going to take a nap!

Paradoxical Response

2011-12-13T23:20:00.000-08:00

I took my next-to-last exam today. The last one will be Friday morning. I thought, at this point, I would be really dragging and scraping for the motivation to study, especially since it, criminal law, is going to take some extra effort. Wouldn't you know, I am oddly energized by the idea of tackling the last hurdle. That would be a good thing except I need to be sleeping right now, not spreading out all my books, study guides, and notes in order to implement The Plan.

Regarding the missing Prof. Contracts, she was apparently terribly ill, so ill that she (the professor who teaches the technology and the law course) did not realize she was not getting any e-mails from anyone because her password had expired. I am just glad she actually is accounted for--it was so odd for her to drop completely off the face of the earth when she has been very involved with our class up until now.

Now, hopefully, I will drift away into melatonin-induced lawless dreams.

Merry Christmas!

Notice how dark it is outside those windows?

That is the life of a law student. Good thing I love it!

What's in a Torts Grade?

2011-12-09T17:49:00.001-08:00

One question.
7,100 characters.
1.5 hours.
Closed book.
That's it.

I think it's fair. It just kind of takes you back for minute--the entire grade.

Apparently Prof. Torts' passionate hate for computers in his class does not extend to their use on exams. They make the exams easier to read. They would make my notes easier to read too! But, that's okay.

I was so happy realizing I could leave my big torts book in my locker. I had accidentally already read the next assignment. Obviously, I will need to review it, but that won't take long.

The idea of a light backpack was short lived though. I decided to check some criminal law study guides out of the library. For the most part, I agree with my professors that study guides probably do more harm than good. But, in this case, I want some backup. Prof. CrimLaw is great. He has done everything during his career. Literally. Internationally and nationally. My classmates refer to him in the standard Chuck Norris format. So, there is no Socratic method and not really any typical lectures. Our two-hour class is mostly story time, hypotheticals from his actual practice experience, and some trial skills tips. It's germane and valuable information. But, he has been very clear that elements of the common law crimes, modern interpretation of statutes, and legality limits will make up the exam. It all was covered in our readings and in his lectures, but I don't want to question something at the eleventh hour and not be able to find it quickly. So, I brought home the study guides. I am so glad our library has multiple copies in circulation and I did not have to choose one and pay good money for it. That exam is Friday (contracts on Tuesday), but I wanted them here and ready to go.

Speaking of contracts, I am slightly concerned about Prof. Contracts. She seems to have vanished. Really. Not returning some work we did, not letting us know when a review session is, not answering anyone'e emails, and not in her office. Hope everything is okay.

Jeopardy Spoiler Alert

2011-12-08T12:51:00.001-08:00

My daughter is reading Macbeth in school right now. Needing a break from torts, I was watching "Jeopardy" with her last night.

Answer (paraphrase): "He killed Macbeth on the battlefield of Dunsinane."

Question: "Who is Macduff?"

Rosebud: "What!? That's how it ends!?"

More Exam Stuff--Computers, Apples, and (No) Coffee

2011-12-07T05:18:00.001-08:00

It had to happen some time. I am officially someone old enough to say how things were different in "my day." This is it--I love taking finals on a computer rather than in a blue book. All of my undergraduate exams were in blue books. There is something kind of nostalgic about them. But computers! Faster, legible, and so easy to go back and insert information in the most logical place.

Yesterday was our first 1L exam, which was civil procedure. However, our contracts professor had given us her most important advice which was that, when your brain starts feeling fuzzy half way through an exam, eat a piece of cut-up apple. It turns out, we cannot eat during the exam unless we leave the room to do so, which she was properly dismayed to hear. We just can't sacrifice that kind of time. But, I saw apples everywhere being snacked on just before the exam--in little containers, whole apples, dried apples. As I left the room, I saw a partially eaten apple in one of the clear plastic food containers you get when you buy something to eat at the deli. Kind of cool we all took her advice to heart.

One other thought on the practical aspects of taking exams--I am so glad I happen to not be hooked on coffee. Before, I have noticed during our two-hours classes that people constantly are taking turns leaving for bathroom breaks. While stretching my legs would be nice, I kind of need to hear what is being discussed. But in exams, again, I don't need to sacrifice that kind of time! One of my classmates was questioning on Facebook later whether people were wearing Depends during the exam. Nope. No coffee and eating leftover lasagna (higher salt content) for lunch beforehand seemed to do the trick just fine for me. Of course, if I needed the coffee, I am not sure how the trade-off would have worked. So glad I did not have that dilemma.

When I got home, Rosebud had made my bed, emptied the dishwasher, and put out the Christmas decorations. It was a wonderful surprise.

Now, on to studying torts!

What are your favorite exam tips?

Finals, Isolation, and Family

2011-12-04T01:18:00.001-08:00

It is here--finals time.

First--Memo 2 was due at 11:00 Saturday night.

Next up--Civil procedure exam will be Tuesday afternoon.

My plan was to have the memo done last weekend. Then, to have it done Tuesday night. Then, not to go to bed Friday until I submitted it.

I worked on it a lot Friday night, only emerging from my room to watch one show with my daughter and then later to tell her to go to bed. I went to bed at 3:00 a.m., not having submitted it yet.

I got up Saturday morning and started working on it again. I submitted it at noon.

Started studying civil procedure. Practiced parallel parking with Rosebud and got groceries. When I started to get ready to study again, she said, "I was hoping you would sit in here with me." No problem, I had my awesome isolation headphones and ear plugs. I told her I would sit in the living room with her but I would still have to study and focus (ie, not hear anything). "OK." So I brought my stuff to the couch, put the ear plugs in, and brought the headphones up over my head to put them on.

CRACK!

Really? Now? Why?

Turns out, even teenagers like to have a little personal interaction on occasion. No, she did not sabotage the earphones, but it seems like their spontaneous snapping in two was a good thing. She let me study, but we also talked some. Nothing heavy, just conversation. My plan was noise isolation and focused studying. This was probably better. Now, back to serious focused studying again.

(Whether it was a good lesson for me as a mom or not, I am still contacting the company!)

Exam Advice

2011-12-01T05:20:00.001-08:00

From Professor Torts yesterday:

"Don't just start writing. Think, don't leap! There is no bungee cord to bring you back."

Law School Zombie 2

2011-11-27T20:36:00.001-08:00

Friday, I worked on my memo. All day.

Saturday, I worked on my criminal law outline. Basically, all day.

Time for a study break.

So, Saturday evening we went shopping. We went to two stores and then home again. I taught piano lessons, had the lovely dinner my kind daughter fixed, and then picked up the criminal law shambles of an outline again.

Around midnight, I wanted to do an online transaction.

No card.

Panic. Panic. Panic. Panic. Panic.

Where could the card be?

Then, in my mind I suddenly saw myself earlier in the day at the first store . . . handing the cashier my debit card . . . the debit card with all the money we have to live on until mid-January . . . realizing their system was down and they were having to manually punch in everything . . . looking through my wallet for the cash to make things quicker . . . paying the cashier with the cash . . picking up our bag and leaving . . . never getting my card back.

Even though I knew what time it was, that it was long after closing time, I still looked at the clock. Yep. Midnight. Law-school-induced zombie-ism had struck again.

Oh, I prayed. We prayed. We prayed a lot.

I got up Sunday morning, prayed again, and drove back to the store, waiting for them to open for the day.

They had my card. In the safe.

Then, I said a couple of earnest prayers of thanks.

Heartfelt words of thanks. Because, regardless, I am very thankful.

Sunday, I rested from my law school labors.

:)

Black Friday Greed or Need?

2011-11-25T11:44:00.001-08:00

I have never gotten up for Black Friday shopping before. Ever. It has always seemed the height of greed and materialism to me, everything that is wrong about Christmas. Two headlines are already on the internet news feeds today--gunshots fired at a North Carolina mall and a woman at a California Walmart who pepper sprayed other shoppers to keep them away from items she wanted. Every year headlines like that confirm my negative feelings. My Facebook feed also has status updates by people denigrating the support of big corporations by shopping Black Friday or looking down on the people who did not stay home with their families today instead.

This year, I was one of the shoppers.

Tuesday my daughter's cell phone died. Now, I know that a cell phone is debatable as a "need" or a "want" and technically it is probably a "want." But, we have no home phone and our cell phones are how I know she is okay throughout the day, especially now that I spend a good portion of the day a good distance from home. We have minimalist, utilitarian, no-contract plans through Virgin Mobile.

Earlier in the week, the phone we agreed on for her was $200, but if we waited until today, we could get it for $100. On our current budget, those figures are worlds apart--almost the difference between whether she could "have" or "have not."

So, yes, we were in line outside Radio Shack at 5:20 for the 5:30 opening and we bought her phone. Then, we turned around and went back home.

Her phone is not for Christmas, it is for immediate use. But, I think she was more excited last night in anticipation of buying the phone (she shared the cost), during the adventure of driving down dark streets to the store at an unnatural hour, and then coming home and setting it up than she will probably be in a month for Christmas. And, I am okay with that. Experiencing another person's joy is still joy, anytime of the year.

And now, I am rested after a nap, and the house is quiet while she naps (sleep had to wait to be able to overpower her happiness). Perfect conditions for me

to

study.

:)

Simple Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:44:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Usually, we go next door to our neighbor's house for the traditional feast--we love their entire family, grandparents and all. But this year, we decided we wanted to have a quiet celebration at home. It was fun, and we made only foods we both wanted and not anything we felt obligated to have on the table. Thus, you will see no green vegetables, cranberry sauce (although we had cran-apple juice to drink), and no yams. I just have not found a yam recipe I really love yet. The focus was on fun, not on balanced nutrition or on being a stickler for tradition for tradition's sake.

The table does look a little different than when we go to our neighbors and there are so many more people to feed!

Of course, we had to have our chocolate pie. It is just so good! Since there was only the two of us, I couldn't see making more than one pie for today's meal. But, I can't imagine going through fall without pumpkin pie, so I will make one later in the season.

While I really enjoyed having our quiet little Thanksgiving this year, there is just something warm and festive about gathering people in for a feast against the cold and gray outside. We will have to see what we decide to do next year.

Shufflin'

2011-11-23T18:48:00.001-08:00

Why is my locker looking so empty? No, I did not completely lose my mind and drop out of school.

Rather, I have been gradually shuffling all those books home for the long Thanksgiving "weekend." Next week, all three days of it, is the last week of classes before finals. So, I will be doing some studying.

I was still able to appreciate the beauty of the walk home, though.

Another thing I am thankful for: While waiting for the train home today, I heard the following announcement. "For those on the platform waiting for the northbound train, the northbound trains will not be running today because of a mudslide. There are buses . . . " I am thankful I go south at that time of the day!

Hindsight

2011-11-19T11:17:00.001-08:00

I decided not to go to the small gathering with a former Supreme Court justice, Dallin H. Oaks. I think I made the right decision. I talked to another student who did go and, while it was a wonderful experience, it did not sound like it was life altering. The class I would have missed was not life altering either. In fact, it was one of the most straightforward set of cases we have had so far in civil procedure--do not discriminate in jury selection based on level/type of employment earning, race, or sex/gender. Got it. But, I am one of those people who likes to feel confident that I did everything I could to prepare before going into an exam. It is a psychological thing. If I had not gone to class, I would have been subconsciously worrying that there was some hole in my understanding. Having gone to the class, I know there is not a hole and that I have nothing to regret as far as preparation. That small difference in confidence means a lot to me--and that can be life altering at this point in my legal career.

Looking back, I am happy with my decision.

As planned, I did go to the law association dinner. It was a very good experience. The keynote speaker was the dean of one of the local prestigious universities. During his address, I sat next to an attorney who has been practicing for many years. Afterwards, she turned to me and said, "Thinking about what he said, I find myself wondering if I have spent my whole career just supporting myself [as opposed to also doing some additional work to simply benefit society]." There it is again--hindsight. I hope I remember what she said as I move forward.

Because, looking back someday, I don't want to wonder the same thing.

Quality time.

Where.Is.The.Fudge?

2011-11-17T20:34:00.001-08:00

First, the background story to set up the subsequent text exchange.

Wednesday night started out very well. I happened to catch an earlier train home, took my daughter out to buy advanced tickets for her and a friend to the movies on Friday night ("Twilight"), and came home and made a batch of fudge for her to take to school on Friday for a project about family traditions.

Then, the rain picked up and the winds began to howl and our internet connection got spotty--which meant that the connection to her school's network kept messing up and the computer screen froze and there was much mayhem. All of this was in the middle of my daughter trying to finish a brochure she thought was due the next day.

You remember late night finishing of projects in high school. Nothing goes right. You are tired. You are frustrated. The tiredness and frustration feed on each other mercilessly.

We survived.

Now, for the text story that followed.

Mid-morning Thursday, (between both our classes, of course):

Rosebud: My brochure isn't even due until tuesday.

Me: Agghh! Well it's done. Sorry it was such a tough night though. At least there was fudge.

Rosebud: Yup(:

Then, the following text came through after she got home from school:

Rosebud: Where.Is.The.Fudge?

[I had stored it safely in the microwave. Rosebud had been looking everywhere and was very relieved to hear and then see that it was safe and intact.]

Hooray for happy endings (and leftover edge pieces of fudge)!

Dilemma

2011-11-16T20:46:00.001-08:00

Friday morning I have the opportunity to be a small group meeting with a former state supreme court justice/current leader whom I admire (Dallin H. Oaks). I am sure this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The meeting is during my civil procedure class. Civil procedure only meets that day and one more time before the final. I have not missed any classes.

Finals.

Friday night I am going to dinner for a law society and the law school chapter, which should be a great experience.

I just don't know what I will do about the beginning of the day.

Teamwork Wins the Day

2011-11-10T19:48:00.001-08:00

Legal writing was rewarding today. After we did some exercises to help us in revising our second memo, we had a grammar competition. We won one point for saying what was wrong (like a missing comma) and then another point for identifying the grammatical rule it violated. If our answer was wrong, we lost a point. I was on a team of three. Most of the time, my teammates were quick on the draw, but then I helped out with the rule identification. So, between the three of us, we cleaned up.

The best part? When the competition started, we did not know there were prizes for the winning team. We got to choose from gourmet treats that came from the university bookstore.

Grammar. Who knew?

Bonding Over Contracts and Public Interest

2011-11-07T05:08:00.000-08:00

PILF = Public Interest Law Foundation

Every year they apparently have a big fundraising competition to raise money to fund students who work in public interest during the summer. Every year, apparently the evening section (1E) wins--because they are still working and because they can get corporate donations more easily.

It didn't turn out that way this year, though.

Guess what section I am in (thus, the pride).

I attribute our section's success to two things: Professor Contracts and momentum of succeeding in a common purpose.

Professor Contracts made a contract with us: If we lost, she would match our contributions 1:2, but if we won she would match them 2:1. She put a cap on it--up to the point that the 2:1 amount was equal to one year's worth of her student loan payments. She wanted us to understand that she knew it would hurt us to contribute as students, so she was willing to be hurt too.

I think that made a big impact.

Then, once we started pulling ahead, our section really came together to keep it going. It ended up being quite a bonding experience.

Thank you, Professor Contracts and everyone in section 1C!

Munch Madness, Year Two

2011-11-06T11:52:00.000-08:00

Last year, Rosebud and Sunbeam went trick-or-treating for Munch Madness (the canned food drive at their school). This year, they wanted to hand out candy to the little kids from our house. So, yesterday they set up a table outside of Albertson's grocery store.
I just have to tell you some of the sweet things Rosebud came home and told me. People were so incredibly nice!

The grocery store personnel, each one they interacted with, bent over backwards to be helpful. This was especially nice because they had to search to find a store that had not already been claimed by other kids for the drive or was not doing their own drive for Thanksgiving. Albertson's offered them a table to use and was incredibly supportive and encouraging.
Four people had intended to get food while they were shopping, forgot, remembered when they saw their table again on their way out, and went back in to get some for them.
Some people gave them money to buy the food.
Many people thanked them for what they were doing.
One older couple told them they had not donated anything they would not want themselves, and the cans they donated were all large size.
Someone donated diapers.
There are four high schools in our district, so there is some rivalry. But, they are not doing their food drives at the same time, which is good. Because of the initial difficulty of finding a store not already doing a food drive/with a table out front, the girls ended up at a grocery store in the "rival neighborhood." People either commented about the girls dedication in going a little out of their way, noting the relative distance, or commented that even though their child went to the other high school, they were happy to donate. The food was going back into our one common community, after all.
Overall, everyone was just so nice to them and both girls came home glowing, smiling, bubbly, and very happy.

I try to be a nice person, I really do. But, sometimes I am short on time, I am always short on money, or I don't particularly want to buy the thing being sold. But after seeing how happy Rosebud and Sunbeam were with people just being nice, even if nothing else, it gave me some ideas and the desire to make more of an effort the next time I pass a table like that.

Sophie and Luke happy too!

Review: MSR "Pack Towels"

2011-11-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

This post is directed to what I like to think of as "fresh-air* commuters," whether it is for work or school. Right now, I take the train and then walk a little over a mile. It just so happens that that mile is pretty much vertical. Add a laptop and case study books in the backpack and it is a nice little workout. My school has private shower rooms and an adjacent locker area for commuter students. What more can you ask for?

If you have to provide your own towel service (I go to school, not to an elite-membership gym, after all), MSR "pack towels" are perfect, especially when compared to traditional terry cloth towels. Why?

They take up very little space, both in the gym bag and in the small locker.
They are much lighter when carrying them up a mini-mountain. (MSR stands for Mountain Safety Research. I think I qualify!)
They do dry very quickly.
They have nice little hanging loops.

There are a few reasons we don't used them in our homes everyday, though.

"Large" is much smaller than your regular bath towel. (That does make it easy to keep off the floor, though.)
The texture is not terry cloth. It is odd. You sort of pat off rather than towel off. But, it works.

Traditional terry cloth bath towel and personal pack towel, size (and weight) difference.

Other practical things to be aware of:

Two pack towels in the upper right corner.

While they dry very quickly, when crammed into a gym locker with shoes, shower stuff, and the gym bag, they don't get bone dry.** Once you take the gym bag out to go home, you can use those hanging loops and hang them for the night in your locker and they dry almost completely. Compared to traditional towels, they dry much better in a locker space.
The original pack towel absorbs more water, but it pills in the dryer. (You don't have to dry it in the dryer. You can hang dry.) The personal pack towel absorbs less water (but still more than enough), is a little softer (though still strange texture), and does not pill.

Original (with pilling) on left, personal on right.

Overall assessment: Absolutely worth it because of the weight and space difference and how quickly it dries. I prefer the personal pack towel because it absorbs enough water, is softer, and does not pill. I bought mine through Sportsman's Warehouse and was very pleased with their service.

*Obviously "fresh air" is relative these days in cities. But, it is a whole lot better than being crammed on a bus or sitting in a car the whole time; and there is nothing like getting the blood moving and the muscles working before sitting the rest of the day!

**UPDATE: I was hanging the bag with my shower supplies after taking out my gym bag at the end of the day. I recently found that if I let that sit on the floor of the locker (on top of my flip-flops), there was apparently enough air circulation in the top of the locker to totally dry the towels!

Law School Zombie 1

2011-11-04T23:13:00.000-07:00

I always add money to our cell phones when I pay the rent. They are due around the same time and it helps me remember to take care of the cell phones.

Rosebud had no school today (lucky girl!). Since she had not responded to my texts, I messaged her through Facebook as I was sitting down to study in the library. She never got my texts because I had not taken care of the money on our phone plans.

Then, it hit me. The rent reminds me to do the cell phones. If I did not do the cell phones . . . I didn't pay the rent?! Halloween, contracts work, met with professional development office, did insane amount of reading posted two days before the take-home civil procedure mid-term posted, should have begun memo 2, bought groceries--where was pay rent? How did it not get on my list? How have I been totally and blissfully oblivious to not having written a large check?!

I immediately packed up the book I had not read in the library, grabbed more books, and headed home to the checkbook. Of all days, today was a day that it was not a smooth and efficient trip. But, I made it to the bank before it closed.

I think I am within the grace period. I hope I am within the grace period. I don't even know because I always pay it early.

That was a crazy little whirlwind of activity.

A Little Upliftment

2011-10-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

You are right, "upliftment" is not actually a word.

A couple of Saturdays ago, my church had a women's conference, just on the local activity. I didn't go--Rosebud had driver's ed and I had to study. But, the next day, they had handouts for those of us who couldn't make it. I brought it home and set it on my dresser.

Today, I actually looked at it. Here is what each item says:

I am a daughter [or son] of Heavenly Father who loves me.

"How I learned to stop worrying and have fun with my husband." - Dr. Morelove

"Reading the Book of Mormon [or the Bible] just 5 minutes every single day will change your life." - Elaine S. Dalton

"Organization is like exercise. It's not very effective if you do it only once; you have to keep at it." - L.A. Organizing Pro Jill Pollack

Decisions Determine Destiny

A recipe for Picante Chicken Pasta Soup

". . . seek learning, even by study and also by faith." Doctrine and Covenants 88:118

My favorite today is Decisions Determine Destiny.

I hope these uplift your day a little!

By the way, guess what we are having for dinner . . .

Picante Chicken Pasta Soup

Slippery Slopes and Functions

2011-10-25T04:51:00.000-07:00

I worked on legal writing and read criminal law yesterday.
I made dinner, drove to and from driver's ed, and to and from the dog sitting job.
I began to hear things like, "It's just too hard" from a very sleepy child who had a math test the next day.
I put down the criminal law, sent the child to bed, and read her online Algebra 3/4 math book so I could review with her the following morning.

If the function of a mother is to help her child understand algebra,

evaluate f(x) when x = law student.

Answer: Tired but happy.

Comparisons

2011-10-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

This week is Mental Health Week at our school. It looks like they have some fun and helpful things lined up. I don't have classes on Mondays though, so I will give you the at-home perspective today.

A repeated theme at orientation was not to compare ourselves to our classmates--to study how studying has worked for us in the past. If study groups work for us, join one, but don't feel obligated now that we are in law school. If we are studying in the library and need to take a break, take it even though the person in the carrell next to us is still going despite having been there forever. I thought I would have no problem with this since I don't usually use external standards to judge myself.

However, this weekend revealed I am not immune. Saturday, we had the J Reuben Clark Law Society Fall Social (after my daughter's driver's ed and after I made peanut butter swirl bars to take as a dessert). It was a lot of fun, we got to connect, and we met each other's families. As I was leaving, I saw three classmates and the panicked thought that went through my mind was "They're here studying." I gave them some leftover cookies.

Sunday night, I logged into my school e-mail account, after not checking it all day. Tuesday, four of us have a "senior partner meeting" for legal writing with our professor. We met together at lunch on Friday to coordinate. Sunday night there had been a flurry of e-mails (including one to the professor) making sure we had met all the requirements. Again I compared their diligent double checking to my "we did what we needed to do" attitude and started to worry a little.

After each incident, I felt unusual panic rise (which probably has something to do with approaching finals). Luckily, each time I was able to assess myself, my intense studying patterns Monday through Friday, and relax again. For now. I am a little concerned about the approach of December, though.

Slayer. We are dog sitting, which is one more thing to do,

but she provides lots of stress-relieving love too!

1L Spring Elective

2011-10-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

This is the first time my law school offers and requires 1Ls to take an elective in the spring. Now, it is time to choose that elective. The options are:

American Legal History
International Law
Introduction to Criminal Procedure
Introduction to Law and Technology
Introduction to Public Law and the Administrative State
Law & Business
Lawyering for a Just and Humane World

I am interested in the international law, criminal procedure, and the just and humane world courses. However, I am currently taking courses from the administrative state and technology professors, I really like their styles, and their courses would be beneficial as well.

The whole 1L elective concept is a little confusing, though. For example, it almost seems that the international law and criminal procedure material would be taught in more depth in later advanced courses and I don't want to waste my time repeating information.

International law and criminal procedure are taught in the afternoon, humane world and technology are taught in the morning. I prefer morning classes.

Decisions, decisions.

And then, it is not really solely up to us anyway. We rank our choices first, second, and third, and then there is a lottery system.

So, I guess it is a good thing I am not so entirely committed to one course that I would be devastated not to get it. They all have good value. At least, I think they do.

Foundations.

Supreme Court

2011-10-19T05:04:00.000-07:00

Our state’s Supreme Court heard cases in our courtroom yesterday. Some students got to have lunch with the justices. I was on the wait list.

At the end of the morning session, I picked up my awesome lunch (that I brought from home) out of the student refrigerator and headed up to my favorite fourth-floor study area. When I opened my e-mail, there was a group message sent to the first five people on the wait list that there was cancellation at the lunch. Also already in my inbox was a response claiming the spot—sent one minute prior to when I was reading it. Ohhhhhh!

I did notice that the quick reply was sent from a mobile phone. I guess my aversion to being constantly connected to my cell phone bit me in the butt this time.

Sitting in on court was a great experience though. I had three classes, so I only had limited time to be there. I got to hear the question and answer session after the first case and most of the arguments for the second case. The Matthew’s test was a key part in that case—and I knew what that was.

;)

Successfully brought bulletin board materials to the parking garage in the car, on the train, walking up the hill, and onto the board. I was so glad it was not raining! Not much, but it's a start.

So Close . . .

2011-10-14T05:19:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning I was four cars away from the train tracks and the gates were down. No problem.

The gates stayed down--for over an hour.

I was on the correct side of the tracks, but the opposite side from the parking garage.

When an official-looking person told me that they would try to have them working within an hour, I drove back home and walked down to the train. I was about 15 minutes late to my first class but glad to be there for the professor to explain expectation and reliance damages in contracts. Plus, the next class was my writing professor "interviewing the client" for Memo 2.

The final stages of Memo 1.

Here is the kicker: Do you know why the gates were stuck down? Someone stole wire from them. Grrrr . . .

Sophie naps after she apparently worked out. I guess it was an exhausting day for her too.

Survival Guides and Lockers

2011-10-09T10:35:00.000-07:00

Today's practical advice for new law students:

Read any 1L Survival Guide written by your school's student association.
Have a system to organize an overload of information.

The above list is brought to you by lockers. Lockers make it possible for the world to go 'round.

Survival Guide
My law school had a 1L Survival Guide written by other students at my law school posted on their web site. I read it during the summer. One of the things it suggested was to go as soon as possible to sign up for a locker and to ask for a top locker. The guide explained that there are not initially enough lockers because students get to keep them while they take the bar. It also observed that three years is a long time to have a bottom locker.

The first day of orientation, we had some blocks of time in which we had to get some things done: set up our computers, sign up for lockers, pay for any parking options, get our IDs made, etc. There was no set order; just get it done. I could tell which people read the survival guide--three of us went upstairs immediately to sign up for lockers. You need a locker as soon as possible. You just have too many heavy books and other things.

Information Management
You will be overwhelmed with information from the web site, from mailings, from e-mails, and from orientation materials. Have a way to immediately enter deadlines, meetings, workshops, etc, into some kind of calendar or something as soon as you read about it, even if you are initially only possibly interested. When I signed up for my locker within the law building, I asked about the lockers near the showers for commuter students. The office person had no idea what I was talking about (not her fault; she was a student who had just started working in the position). I knew I had read about it somewhere in the mass of information during the summer. Now, I had to go back and look for it. Those lockers and showers are over in the student center--and I had to get my ID enabled to unlock the commuter showers. They are very nice private little shower rooms. But, I had to have the information accessible to me to be able to make use of it.

This may all be procedural versus substantive law school stuff, but you have to have both and know the rules for both.

"Artificial Light"

2011-10-01T11:17:00.000-07:00

These trees did not used to wear sweaters. This is a park on my path between the train and school, and I was amused when the first single tree apparently donned clothing appropriate to the coming cooler days. I told my daughter about them, and we both wondered who in the park had this odd but warm sense of empathy. Over ensuing days, more and more trees suddenly appeared in their new fall colors.

Then, on the way home one day, I caught the sprites in the act. So, I stopped to ask. I was watching fiber art be put into place. The artist, Suzanne Tidwell, wanted to brighten up the park. The vibrant trees certainly had been brightening my daily walks. They reminded my of my crazy striped toes socks I loved as a kid.

I also learned that this installation was in the process of being moved from another park to this one.

I am sure the trees brighten the days for others as well--whether they spend a lot of time in the park or are dashing through to catch a bus.

Let there be light!

Thank You!

2011-09-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

The clock tower (taken two days ago).

Yesterday.

I stayed later at school to watch the final round in the moot court competition.

Because of that, I just barely missed the last train of the day. I was coming down the steps to the platform as it pulled away.

Having not taken the bus into the city or home yet, I did not know where to pick up the bus, although I had a general idea. (I had been meaning to take the bus before for this very reason!)

I was wandering around the bus stops trying to find the correct one.

An older gentleman asked me if I had any money to spare. I told him I was sorry, I did not. Then, I guess to demonstrate that I was not as put together as I apparently seemed, I told him I had missed the train and was trying to find the correct bus (as well as not having any money).

He asked me where I was trying to go.

I told him.

He pointed across the street and indicated that the bus there was going to my destination.

In shock, I looked to where he was pointing and sure enough there was a bus (with a different route number than I was looking for) that said it was going to my home, closing its doors.

Unbelievably, I had the crosswalk signal in my favor.

I immediately ran across the street.

The driver opened the door, affirmed he was going to where my car was parked, and I got on, looking for a seat on a full bus.

I never looked back. I never smiled and waived. I never said thank you. I was focused and worried about not catching this bus.

I feel like one of the ten lepers who did not return to thank Christ for healing them. This man had quite literally answered my prayers.

I don't know if I will ever see him again or, I am embarrassed to say, recognize him if I do. But, I at least have to put this out there somehow.

Thank you to the man who pointed out my bus so I could go home.

Thank you to the lady and the police officer before him who told me I was going the wrong direction. Thank you to the bus driver who waited and let me on the bus. I told them thank you personally (I was not dashing at that point), but all these people helped me on my way yesterday. Thank you for answered prayers.

Bailiff

2011-09-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

Last night I was a bailiff for moot court (appeal). It was great and I highly recommend it, especially to anyone whose career plans are headed for the courtroom and especially to anyone thinking about competing in moot court. The bailiffs get to be part of the process in a nonstressful way (escorting in and out and timing) and, in the process, get to see and hear everything that goes on, including the judges' critiques. Plus, I simply thought it was fun. Of course, I wasn't competing.

I thought the three judges gave excellent advice and I was impressed with both of the law students presenting their oral arguments.

The picture below has nothing to do with moot court. It is civil procedure. At the very end of class, one of our professors (we have two in that class) revealed a white board panel with a flow chart of the progression through time (by cases) of the US Supreme Court's (when ruling on diversity jurisdiction appeals) designation of state law or federal law for substantive and procedural matters. She said, "Listen to the discussion. You can bring your camera phones up at the end of class [rather than frantically trying to copy it by hand or on the laptops], which we did. She did promise to post a black-and-white version on TWEN later.

How the Other Half Lives

2011-09-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

My criminal law professor is out of state this week. We watched a movie (documentary on women who kill their abusers) on Tuesday, but no class today.

So, this is what life is like for the people who did a summer start and are not currently taking criminal law. They have one less class than the rest of us 1Ls. Wow. I had an extra two hours in which I was not sitting in class, and I have been able to put the reading for that class on the back burner this week.

I did not choose summer start because I wanted to stay at my paying job as long as possible. I still would have made the same choice. But, today was very nice.

From under the overpass.

Kindle Goes to School

2011-09-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

I felt bad for my daughter last year. She carried around big heavy textbooks in her backpack all the time. This year, I am slightly jealous. Her school has gone to textbooks that the kids can access online from home, and then there is a classroom set. I, on the other hand, do not have electronic versions of my casebooks. Sigh.

However, my Kindle has been wonderful, even if I can't carry my casebooks on it.

It is so nice and little that it slips easily in and out of the front pocket of my backpack while I wait for and ride on the train. It is not big, heavy, and awkward like my books for school.

Having a Kindle was particularly helpful earlier this semester. One of my classes added The Buffalo Creek Disaster to the syllabus at the last minute. The university bookstore had not ordered it, there was not a supply of copies at local bookstores, and classmates were panicking. We only had a week to read it. I simply downloaded it and read on the train. So, happy. It was a very interesting read, by the way.

I also used it with a recent case we needed to read. McIntyre Machinery v. Nicastro was decided this year and so was not in our book. Our professor posted an excerpted version of it on TWEN (a portion of the Westlaw research web site professors can use to post class materials). I downloaded the case and e-mailed it to my Kindle.

If you send materials to your Kindle (like I did with the case), make sure you switch the connection to wi-fi (or USB) and do not use the 3G connection. Personal document downloads are free over wi-fi; there is a service fee over 3G. (There is no transmission fee for books bought from Amazon. I am just referring to documents.)

I love seeing the water in the afternoons.

Spiritual Strength

2011-09-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Thursday I went to the first meeting of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society this academic year on my campus. I wasn't sure exactly what to expect.

This is the mission statement:

We affirm the strength brought to the law by a lawyer's personal religious conviction. We strive through public service and professional excellence to promote fairness and virtue founded upon the rule of law.

That first meeting was a great experience and I look forward to meeting with this group. Part of the society's activities is having a one-hour (unofficial) class every week (another class!?). The society was started by Mormons, but anyone is energetically encouraged to be a member of the society and/or attend the group's gatherings. One reason for this is because the group seeks to really examine what it is we believe (whatever the belief system) and why we believe that. Having different view points represented with conviction only helps in that process--for all parties. I know of at least one committed member of our group, a 2L, who is not Mormon, and I can already see the value he has brought to our first class discussions.

Our teacher is a practicing lawyer from a prominent law firm here. This will be his 11th year teaching the class portion. He wants to make sure that we can honestly and freely discuss anything.

It is a wonderful feeling. My daughter and I have open discussions within our home. Now, I have another group in which I can explore my beliefs with absolute personal honesty. The teacher mentioned two things; it is difficult to defend unexamined beliefs and our testimonies would grow as a result. He did encourage us to sincerely pray as well and truly seek for guidance as part of this process.

Long post. I am just really looking forward to adding this aspect of growth to my legal education!

Funny side note: I was the only female there on Thursday, although the president of our group is a woman (she couldn't attend that day). It took me a minute to figure out the lopsided numbers.

;)

Beautiful view from my Jesuit-founded university.

Unintended Message

2011-09-16T05:01:00.000-07:00

I loved college. All throughout my daughter's life, I have tried to relate that experience to her through stories here and there--that it was hard work but also an incredible amount of fun.

When I was considering going to law school, I really hoped it would not be detrimental to our family life. In fact, I entertained visions of her studying, me studying, her gradually increasing social life, my gradually increasing social life, synergy, angels singing. It was wonderful.

Imagine my shock when she asked one evening,

"So, is this what college will be like for me? Getting up really early, going to school, and then coming home and doing dishes?"

Ughh. I tried to explain to her that undergraduate college students usually live either on campus or very, very near campus, which significantly changes things, and a few other differences. I did not dwell much on how different the life of a single 18 to 22-year-old is from that of a single mother of a 15-year-old.

After all, she is nothing but a blessing in my life.

Hopefully, her perception of my law school experience will develop over time into seeing more of the positive aspects!

:)

A pair of elegant kayaks--parked in front of a hospital.

Hopefully, the adventurous life did not get too dangerous!

The Big To Do

2011-09-12T10:32:00.000-07:00

Five different syllabi to flip back and forth between.
Reading assignments that are critical to be read before class.
Heavy tomes to decide which will be hefted on my back for the trek home.

All this adds up to the necessity of a system for making these decisions quickly and correctly.

While I could use a commercial student planner, I like to customize mine and just have two single sheets in my folder for the week (one for the current week and one for the coming week. In addition, professors often adjust the time lines by how quickly we are going through the material.

This was last week's sheet:

I have further customized the template to add a Saturday column because I often have legal writing assignments that must be e-mailed by a Sunday night deadline.

I wrote a post earlier about a system for goal setting and tracking. I am still doing that--this is just keeping me on top of school specifically. Obviously, you don't have to use my system(s). In fact, I think you definitely should customize your own plan and continually refine it. But, I completely believe in planning, preparation, and accountability. It works.

"The day dawn is breaking, the world is awaking."

(lyrics written by Joseph L. Townsend)

Puppies Going to Law School

2011-09-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, even puppies are working and studying hard to make this a better world.

This sweet guy is in training to become a service dog, and he goes to our school. As soon as I saw him, I realized how much sense it made that a school so interested in social justice would have a student working to make society better in other ways as well, one puppy at a time.

He is adorable. Even though he looks almost full size, you really can tell how young he is when you see him around the school. See how focused he is on me taking the picture? Anytime someone comes near him, he knows he is not supposed to rush up and jump and make the initial invitation of "Let's Play!," but he has so much eagerness in his eyes and energy in his body that he is pleading for that person to make the invitation. Surely, it would be alright to play then. Everything is interesting--elevator dings, elevator doors sliding open, smells, papers, and people everywhere. But, he is doing really well.

I couldn't be in better company.

:)

Lunch Break?

2011-09-08T04:49:00.000-07:00

Lawyerist had a post on the benefits of taking a real lunch break--away from your desk. While it was directed to lawyers, I think it applies to law students as well.

I had such ideal plans when I first started school (a whole two and a half weeks ago). Because I leave to catch the train at either 5:30 or 6:10, my body is simply not prepared to accept food yet. So, I was bringing a nice healthy breakfast and lunch and took short breaks for both, down in the dining area, near the Sidebar.

But then, I wasn't getting all the studying done I wanted to while at school.

I changed my very cool breakfast to a yogurt I ate at my seat just before my first class began.

Still not getting enough studying done.

I changed my lunch to something I did not need to microwave (still using dinner leftovers though) and that I could eat while I was studying.

I have been either studying intensely or in class from approximately 7:15 until 4:00 every day and then reading on the train home too. I have gotten much more productive, but I am mentally exhausted when I get home. I am good for anything that is not studying related--but not the books.

I do walk from the train to school and the return (about a mile, but it might as well be a mountain since it is such a steep grade). But, should I add a short break back in at lunch? Remember those ideal plans I had in the beginning? They included exploring the city around campus, just to get outside in the middle of the day. That didn't happen at all, even on day one.

I think I will try to add a short lunch break back in; though I will still "work through breakfast" for now.

Anyone have personal experience with trying to maximize your studying while at school?
Did/do you take actual breaks at lunch or not?
Recommendations?
Thoughts?
Does it actually matter?

I will probably revisit this in a post later this year.

For now, I leave you with the view from my favorite fourth-floor-of-the-law-library carrel.

Spiders and Dueling Hairdryers

2011-09-07T04:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning was the first time this scholastic year that Rosebud and I have had to get ready at the same time. Thanks to one and a half bathrooms and two hairdryers, we have no problems.

We have had sort of a coincidental buildup to this schedule. First, I was going to school while she was still on summer break. Because she stayed up later than I did during that time period, I often awoke to interesting little communications:

Transcript of longer message: I forgot Luke [our dog] had poison on his back [monthly flea medication, recently applied], and I petted him last night. I washed my hands but it kinda tingled after, but I could have imagined that. Wake me up if I'm gonna die. Left hand.

Transcript of shorter message: P.S. I got Sophie [our cat] to eat a Huge SCARY spider for me. Hope she doesn't die either.

I wrote reassuring messages back to Rosebud before I left for the day.

Here is another little note for me:

There was no way Rosebud was going to dispose of a spider carcass. I was happy to take care of it (before I took the photo).

The next phase of simultaneous school morning primping was a two-day period when we both were going to school, but Rosebud took the bus and, therefore, left later than I did. On those days, I woke her up just before I left the house.

Yesterday was the first day of her 0-hour class.

We do have a car pool though, which is awesome. I drive Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays. While the other student's parents came to me originally, I was actually the one who suggested the 3/2 division of days--because I am ecstatic not to be rushing on Tuesdays and Thursdays when I have an early class.

* * *

As far as official law school news goes: I turned down my job at the law library and will just be working as a research assistant. I really liked the supervising librarian when I did the training and she was great when I went to talk to her. I am glad to have the decision made and that everything went so well.

Myth: Law School as a 9 - 5 Job

2011-09-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

I agonized quite a bit over going to law school at this time in my life. One factor that helped me decide to go ahead was I heard, from multiple seemingly reliable sources, that you can treat law school like a 9 - 5 job, that you can do all your studying on campus during those hours and then come home and "leave law school at the law school" for the evening/weekend.

I am telling you not to believe this--at least not in your first two weeks of law school. You will have to do some studying at home, no matter how efficient and focused you are during your on-campus time.

I am not devastated by this realization. I just don't want other parents considering law school to be basing their decisions, to some degree, on this misinformation.

Now, I am off to study. Happy Labor Day!

:)

Research Assistant!

2011-09-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

I am so excited!

I got a job that seems like it was custom made just for me--I will be a research assistant to a professor who is writing a book that, in general terms, is about issues in the Middle East. (His topic is obviously more specific than that. I am just giving you the broad concept.)

Brand new 1Ls rarely get to be research assistants. We just don't know enough about legal research yet. But, he was looking for help with editing. I have an editing background (jobs before I decided to stay home more and switched to medical transcription). The fact that the book has to do with the Middle East makes my good fortune almost unbelievable.

Now, I have to decide what to do about the law library. I applied for the research assistant position before the library, but heard back from the library first. I am going to sort some things out about this on Wednesday, I think.

Fun thing I saw today: A fellow commuter was juggling while waiting at the crosswalks.

Open Blocks of Time . . .

2011-08-31T05:08:00.000-07:00

. . . are not all that open. Don't be fooled.

When I first got my schedule, I noted comforting blocks of time in which, surely, I could get so much studying done. Well, it turns out that my law school wants to help its entering 1Ls do as well as possible (and I assume other law schools do as well). So, there are many sessions planned that are not apparent on the original schedule. Added to that, there are things that are important but not part of class. Finally, there are the many, awesome student organizations.

For example, in addition to my regular classes, this week has these additions:

Tuesday -- Mentee Orientation (mandatory if I wanted to have a mentor).

Wednesday -- Workshop for my section, this one on briefing cases.

Thursday -- Criminal law lab for my section.

Friday -- Training for my job in the law library.

Mondays -- Working in the law library.

The workshop and the criminal law lab are not mandatory (nothing on the above list is mandatory). However, while I feel my briefing skills are pretty good, I am not foolish enough to believe that there is nothing I can learn from the workshop, or the lab, for that matter.

And that is the story of my incredibly shrinking blocks of time.

Not my locker, but it could have been!

Professor Torts

2011-08-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

The first full week of law school is complete! It has been intense, but in a great way.

Character sketch--Professor Torts:

Interesting character. His lectures are a one-man-show dramatic presentation (jumping, voice scaling a couple of octaves, eyes wild, etc). He clearly loves the material and has put effort into preparing his lectures. But, during office hours he is very relaxed and, in stark contrast to his lecture style, low key. The difference is almost disorienting, especially since office hours are immediately following class.

Interestingly, he is also the only one who outright bans recording (audio or video) his class. I really think it comes back to the theatrical nature of his lectures--I think he views them as proprietary material.

He is also the only professor who, very emphatically, has essentially banned laptops in his class. He is not so concerned about Facebook and IM, but about the learning process associated with the physical act of handwriting. That is why I went to his office to chat. I have been a transcriptionist far too long. We reached a compromise.

From the outset, he is the most demanding as far as exactness of answers.

Overall, despite anything it may appear I have said here, I think he will be a good professor. We will all definitely be awake in class.

:)

View from train, waiting for it to take me home.

She's Back!

2011-08-22T07:50:00.000-07:00

My daughter is home again. So wonderful. And, her time at her dad's was really good too. School starts for her in nine days.

Meanwhile, I began my study-wherever-whenever-I-can program.

Waiting at the airport, baggage claim.

Private Panel of 3Ls

2011-08-19T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have officially survived the two-day law school orientation--with no major mishaps. I made my trains, got everywhere I needed to be on time, and did all the orientation type things.

Today, I had a cool experience. The law school set up a burrito bar for us for lunch. Almost everyone went outside to sit at the tables there. I think it was the novelty of embarking on our law school days, the fear of shortened days of winter that must eventually come, and a little bit of follow-the-crowd mentality. I am not necessarily more of a not-follower type than everyone else, but I went up and paid for my locker and unloaded my walking shoes and a few things into my newly acquired locker first. In other words, I arrived after everyone else. I took one look at the sun beating down and knew that I did not want to sit out there and bake. I found a table inside with a nice view and air conditioning.

This was fortuitous because three 3Ls joined me soon after at my four-person table. What ensued was my own private panel discussion with me as the moderator. They were awesome. We covered general things like types of externships to specific things, like what they knew about my professors.

For example, my legal writing professor is apparently very good and has a lot of great knowledge, but you will only do well in her class if you do it exactly the way she teaches. There is not a lot of room for creativity (which I gather is the case with legal writing as an endeavor in general, but much more so with her). This is good information to have up front.

I also met a woman who is crazier than I am. She is also divorced, but she has a 13-year-old, a 7-year-old, and a 2-year-old. Don't get me wrong. I love 2-year-olds. I don't think she is in my section, so apparently I will not ever really see her again this year. But, if I start feeling overwhelmed and insane, I am guessing there is someone else out there who will empathize. And then some.

Guess what?!? My daughter comes home tomorrow! I am so excited.

:)

"You Can Hear the Whistle Blow . . .

2011-08-17T07:42:00.000-07:00

. . . a hundred miles."

Today is my last day as a free agent, my last day to get projects done and reading done. It is my last day between quitting my job and starting school tomorrow.

So, I have been getting up earlier this week as part of my preparations--I don't want my head to be nodding during orientation! The first two days, I did some practice timing runs between *seminary and the train station. This morning, I have been in the living room reading criminal law. And, it seems just to make sure I am staying focused and working, I keep hearing the train whistle--"Tomorrow, you will be on the train, going to school. Tomorrow. You only have today. Keep working."

We are not a hundred miles from the train station--we are two miles. But, we can definitely hear the whistle from inside the house with all the windows and doors closed. Thank goodness it does not wake me up from sleep.

Tomorrow.

*Seminary is a class about the scriptures my daughter takes before school. She will need a ride in the morning once that starts. So, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I will need to drive straight from seminary to the train station, in order to make it to class on time.

Just Laughed Out Loud--Twice

2011-08-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

Needing a little study break, I peeked at Facebook. Here is what my daughter's status update was:

"Fishing for the first time with my sister at the lake house. (: It almost jumped onto my face. Twice."

Not that we have a fully story there, but it was enough to set my imagination working--and chuckling.

Then, I went out and checked the mail. Only one mass mailing--a notice of how to obtain a free transit card ($5 to purchase just the card itself) preloaded with $10 (ie, free $10 worth of fare). Remember how excited I was about the new transit pass for students that was going to save me money over the regular student subsidy? Well, even though it is good for a year, that year starts September 1. I need to start going to campus Thursday. Day after tomorrow. August 18. So, I need regular transit fare for these few days of August. My plan was to go buy the card at 6:00 pm (scheduled bigger study break). I checked the mail at 4:45 pm.

I looked it over to see who was behind this--the school (feeling bad about the gap in time)? No. Everyone in this end of the county got it in the mail. Three points regarding why I feel blessed: First is that, while this was a mass mailing, I have had this on my to-do list for the last week. Which is why I set a specific time to go today. Second, I know $15 is a small amount to most people, but as I mentioned before, little adds up. Third, it simply made me happy.

Hope you are having a happy day too, in the midst of all that reading or whatever you must do today.

When "Minor" Equals Major Blessing

2011-08-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

"I was stressed until the cops and dad came."

This is the (thankfully, happy) end of the text story I got from my daughter yesterday, my daughter who is still clear across the country. She was with her sister when they were in a very minor fender bender, per report. Neither of the girls were hurt. The other driver was complaining of some neck pain. Luckily, this all happened while they were still in their father's area, as they were going out of state later that day.

I know this is really not a big thing, I am not upset, and I am not trying to make it a big thing by posting about it.

I am just so glad it is not a big thing.

I'm All In

2011-08-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Not that I wasn't before. But now, I am officially unemployed. Yesterday was my last day of work.

It went from years of

with these reference materials,

which were unceremoniously boxed up

and carted away. All that remains is this--

Space. Time. Focus.

I did find a new home for the little guy (toy from inside a Kinder Egg) who kept me company all these years. You can barely see his splash of blue in the very first picture on the CPU/under the monitor, left-hand side.

Blessing of Little Bags

2011-08-09T14:52:00.000-07:00

There are blessings from paying tithing. This is something I know from experience.

For those of you who do not come here for religion, no worries. That is about as religious as this post gets. In fact, it goes downhill from here, and I am hoping not to be struck down by lightening. For those of you who have tested this principle and have experienced the unexpected ways in which it is fulfilled, you should particularly enjoy this post.

I got most of my textbooks earlier, at the bookstore. However, I had not been put into a legal writing section yet. Yesterday, I ordered those books online. They were delivered today (quick service!). I have to have three chapters read before August 19 (not a problem, but needed the books).

To fill the extra space in the box, they had packed in tons of plastic stuff. Not unusual. I started trying to gather it all up to put in the plastic recycling and noticed that it consisted of many, many small bags.

I have needed to go buy some bags to clean up after my dog when we go for walks, but have been waiting for the next paycheck, and using old bread bags and such in the interim (I told you this post would go downhill). Now that we use reusable bags for groceries, I don't even have the plastic grocery bags on hand.

I suddenly realized these little plastic bags were the perfect size. And there is probably close to 100 of them. I have jammed them as tight as possible into three of the bags.

Is it a goldmine? No. But every little bit helps. And that is often how tithing seems to work, for me at least. Little unexpected things here and there--that add up.

The only drawback is that they are clear--really clear, more transparent than my windows. They are so transparent, I had trouble taking a picture to show you the size and transparency.

Oh, well. Don't worry "oh hay, it's kk" (good blog). I will not post any pictures using these bags. I am skating close to the line of acceptability even writing on the subject!

I am sure I cannot take any credit for the change in transit passes--though maybe there are a whole lot of us paying tithing out there and it was a cumulative effect? Who knows?

That's my story--lots of little bags I needed and did not have to buy.

Now, just for fun--what could be a better play toy than curly ribbons and half-deflated birthday balloons?

The Ups and Downs of Money

2011-08-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

My to-do list today included buying my transit pass for the train. My university subsidizes it, but it was still going to be expensive. If using the subsidy, the pass must be bought for a minimum of a three-month period. To start using said pass in September, it had to be bought before August 10. Today is August 8.

So, having gotten the money in order, I went on-line to do the purchase. I got to a little notice that said September registration opening soon. Soon as in tomorrow? I called the phone number on the screen.

It turns out, the university is switching to a different transit pass that will charge on the semester system (much more convenient than figuring out whether it is worth it to buy the pass for August and December when school is only in session part of those months) and is $108 cheaper per semester! When the nice lady quoted me the price, I thought I might be misunderstanding the time period covered or something, so I asked just to make sure. She said, yes, this was much cheaper.

As I was envisioning this post, the title was "Oh, Happy Day!"

Then, I opened my e-mail. That included a message about the Budget Control Act. I had already heard that the deferred interest on the (subsidized) Stafford loan and incentives for repayment on the unsubsidized loans were going away. It was worse seeing it in an e-mail.

However, I had correctly assumed, since I had already signed all the papers, the changes would not take effect until loans taken out next year. Maybe there will be a miracle before next year?

I no longer felt so happy anymore. But, besides the fact that it does not affect this year's loan, there are three things I feel blessed about:

I decided to go ahead and go to law school this year instead of waiting another year or two. (I had drawn up alternate game plans for these scenarios and really considered all the options a lot.)
Law school is only three years versus some other graduate programs that are four years.
So far, they have not touched undergraduate funding. My daughter will be that age in a few years.

The final sentence of the e-mail was not entirely comforting, "Please note there is a possibility that there may be more cuts in student aid on the horizon during the second phase of this process."

What a mess.

Ritual Unease

2011-08-04T17:03:00.000-07:00

Walking out of an airport with no luggage--just a purse over my shoulder--doesn't feel right. It triggers all kinds of internal alarms. After all, I go to an airport to travel and, therefore, must necessarily have luggage. Numerous trips, with luggage, cement this location-body connection. Airport = luggage handle in my hand with suitcase rolling behind me.

When do I leave an airport without luggage? When I have accompanied my daughter to either the TSA security checkpoint or the gate and then left her to travel unaccompanied. Then, the internal alarms going off about no luggage in a luggage-necessary location trigger and intensify more primal alarms. I abandoned my child to fly across the entire country alone? What kind of parent does that?

I hate walking out of the airport alone like that.

Rosebud is off to her dad and family. I am immensely proud of her capabilities. I am sure she will have a good time. And, I am more relaxed now that she has successfully rendezvoused with her dad.

Another thing that isn't right is a quiet house.

Birthday

2011-07-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

Rosebud had basically a birthday weekend. There was a full day (10:00 am to 8:00 pm) at a water park and Crazy, Stupid Love (rave reviews from her), on separate days.

There were balloons

and cake. This is our absolute favorite cheesecake (the candles are being put on the cake).

Sunbeam came for a visit with her cousin's dog, Chesty

who met our dog, Luc.

They became friends

and went for a walk together.

I, Mom, did drop the ball twice. My present was defective

and, while I planned the other birthday activities, I neglected to plan the birthday day dinner.

We did go driving, though--ie, Rosebud at the wheel! She did great. :)

Semester at a Glance - "Before"

2011-07-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Here is fall semester, all on one 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper--clean, pretty, and pristine, but also empty . It is just waiting to be filled in. I anticipate that it will literally be filled in with deadlines and important events (for both my daughter and me) and crossed off days (I like visual representations of where I am in a process). I anticipate that it will figuratively be filled in with hard work, fun, probably some difficulties, and, overall, a sense of accomplishment.

[The original has Veterans Day and Thanksgiving shaded green and the exam period shaded purple.]

:)

Anticipating the End of an Era

2011-07-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Soon, Rosebud will go to her father's for a bit. Normally, her excitement for the trip rubs off on me. This year, though, for me, it marks a transition between times.

Immediately before she leaves, she will have her birthday.

While she is gone, I will have my last day of work and will have had two days of orientation for school.

She will return on a Saturday. The following Tuesday (I have no classes on Mondays), I will be a full-time student. This is not bad, much of it is exciting for both of us, but it is very, very different. And, it marks moving on to new stages of our lives, for both of us.

Before she leaves, we are still in the life we have had for a long time:

I work from home and try to basically be a stay-at-home mom who happens to work.
Rosebud does not have her driver's license.
I work evening hours consistently, five days a week, and have to use vacation time to go to school functions or provide rides in the evening (or else arrange rides). I don't mind using vacation time, it is just a hassle and makes things more complicated. There are no last-minute options.
I consistently work Saturdays.

When she comes back, our life will look like this:

I will be a student and have to study too.
I will have holidays off!
Rosebud will be old enough to take driver's ed and will probably be independently mobile soon.
Rosebud will probably have a part-time job next summer. Hopefully, I will have a full-time paid internship next summer.
I will not have rigid evening commitments almost every night of the week.
I will not have to work every Saturday for eight hours (most likely).

So many good things. Still though, so much change. It marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new one.

I had originally tried to schedule things differently--the timing of her trip and when my last day of work would be. I couldn't make it work. This is probably better though. It provides a date that is the dividing line between the before and after, so it can't sneak up on me, so that I give it the attention it deserves.

In other words, I am soaking up these last few days.

Vacation Time!

2011-07-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

No blogging in the last week--because I have been out and about.

My daughter took sign language last year and will continue this coming year. She loves it. Our church has a deaf congregation. It is a little bit of a drive, but we went last Sunday and it was an amazing experience. It is their congregation, ie, I needed the interpreter, not the other way around. I love languages (though, sadly, no natural talent) and sign language is so beautiful.

My mother flew in for a visit on Tuesday and left yesterday. During her stay,

We all visited my school, bought my textbooks, and had fun touring some fun areas of the city.
My laptop was delivered!
We had a dinner party with our neighbors. They are like family and we had to have mom meet them.
We had a beautiful day trip up into the mountains. We took our other family member, Sunbeam, on that trip.
Rosebud shared some of her favorite movies with my mom.
I did not work!

By the way, my daughter loves my law school, the guy at the produce stand nearby, and my laptop. I think she is really looking forward to this law school experience.

On top of all that, I was ready to teach my lesson today. That was a miracle. :)

The Beginning of School Approaches

2011-07-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a fun day.

First thing in the morning, I got a call from the company I am buying my laptop through (my law school has a deal with them). Apparently, $1,000+ purchases are out of the ordinary on that card and a security flag blocked the purchase. That was taken care of.

Later in the day, I received my class schedule. Whoo hoo! It is regular 1L fare:

contracts
criminal law
civil procedure
torts
legal writing

I had been wondering about how they would put sections together. All law schools say they look at the whole class makeup when admitting students--they want diversity of experience. I was wondering if the same would go for sections and who my 1L classmates would be.

I still don't know anything about my classmates, but I was pleasantly surprised by my professors. It may be coincidence, but at least two have strong backgrounds in what I wrote about in my personal statement regarding my background and professional goals (world health issues). The other two look like they are awesome in their own rights (and one in my *alternative goal, which is prosecution).

The day wrapped up with an e-mail from a friend of a friend (whom I have met) who will be a third-year at my school next year. I had e-mailed her some questions and she sent a wonderful reply. How great is it that I have a third-year mentor already?

I enjoyed having these three little "packets" spaced throughout a single day.

:)

[*Alternative goal = I have two passions and I am not yet sure which one will win out!]

"The Last Lecture"

2011-07-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Randy Pausch's The Last Lecture. He was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer--and quite literally knew this would be his last lecture. He died July 25, 2008.

He decided to focus his lecture on achieving your dreams, your childhood dreams--the dreams you had for yourself when there were no limits. Achieving those dreams. Near the end of the book, he said,

"[This lecture is] not about how to achieve your dreams. It's about how to lead your life. If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you."

I hope so. :)

I think he was talking about both living with integrity and living with intent, because he definitely talks about both aspects. You can't just be a good person, you have to really go after the things you want. In fact, earlier in the book, he said,

"The brick walls are there for a reason. They're not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something."

His children were very young at the time and the lecture was videotaped, specifically for them. (It is 76 minutes long, just to let you know).

At one point, in the book, he said spirituality in his family was a very personal thing, and basically left it at that. While I can certainly appreciate and identify with that, I hope he wrote what he believed somewhere for his children.

It isn't that I was looking to read one thing or the other from him--I just feel like it is a huge part of life and of an individual. It is what I would want to know about someone important in my life.

That is one thing I continue to learn about writing and interacting with others. The exact times when I am tempted to gloss over something or edit it back--those are the things that have substance and allow people to connect. In fact, people sense when something is held back, and they wonder and feel a little incomplete in the interaction.

More importantly, though, he let his family know how much he loved them and that he would leave this life with beautiful memories of each of them.

For the rest of us, the book has great. practical advice for achieving our dreams, and I am glad I read it.

Life Lesson: If You Jump into the Toilet . . .

2011-06-27T15:17:00.000-07:00

. . . you will immediately be given a bath. In the tub. With shampoo. The dog's shampoo, if that's all that is handy.

Disclaimer: This really is not a blog about cats. However, I felt obligated to pass on such a valuable and humiliatingly learned lesson.

Of Love and Allergies

2011-06-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

I am allergic to cats.

Understandably, I have been quite adamant that there would be no pet cats.

Meet Kathy. She looks a little worse for the years of love. She was given to Rosebud when just a toddler by a wonderful lady named Melba.

Like a baby doll, Kathy went everywhere and did everything.

She was eventually joined by White Cat and then Zip.

Who were immediately incorporated into everyday life.

Eventually, I decided my allergies couldn't be that bad. Our first live kitten was an Abyssinian. They are good for people with allergies. This was Zoe.

After Zoe (only one cat at a time, I'm not stupid), I did not want to spend the money on a purebred. Besides, I wasn't sure purebreds were the way to go anyway. I figured if we got a short-haired cat and it followed all my rules of not being allowed on any furniture (unless on someone's lap--except for Rosebud's bed), never, ever on my bed, and on no counter tops or tables, I would be okay. Oh, and if I never held the cat either. After all, it was Rosebud's cat anyway.

So, from the pound, we adopted Sarah.

While Rosebud understood that I was allergic to cats (whatever that meant to a child who is not), every once in a while she would insist that I hold her. "Mom, she has to know you love her." Apparently, cats don't know that if you don't hold them.

When Sarah died last year, I cried. She had been a wonderful addition to our family. Rosebud looked at me in kind of shock and said, "I didn't know you liked her."

Now, we have Sophie. She and Rosebud are great buddies.

Sophie is still learning my rules. I am too. How can you resist something so cute? I have been holding her, on occasion. When Sunbeam came over to see Sophie, Rosebud told her, with joy in her voice, "They like each other!" Again, apparently, affection must be demonstrated in clear ways.

Sophie thinks the computer cords at my work station are her best ever play toy.

As far as the never on Rosebud's mom's bed rule goes, she thinks that is more of a game. It goes like this: After playing with the cords, she jumps on the bed, dives under a blanket or pillow (apparently, I can't see her there), she then waits to hear me get up from my chair to take her off the bed, and she dives off before I can catch her. She is making progress, though.

Finally, Sophie has also figured out that I have a heating pad on under my desk for my feet while I work. (I like working the foot pedal with bare feet.) We now jockey for position.

In other words, Sophie spends a proportionally larger amount of time in my room than did Sarah.

My allergies are driving me crazy. I had to go buy Visine the other day.

I told Rosebud I can't hold Sophie anymore. I love Sophie, though.

Love, sometimes, is from a distance.

Bloom Where You're Planted

2011-06-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

These flowers are in a back, gate closed, driveway of a house in my neighborhood. I don't think it is ever used for cars, only for basketball, perhaps. I can't decide if the flowers were actually planted in that little crevice as a sort of experiment, or if they found their way there on their own. I think it was serendipity.

Today is that last day of school for Rosebud. Whoo hooo! (Happiness for me too.) However, in the past, whenever we have had major changes in the schedule (like summer/school year) it takes me a few days to a few weeks to figure out how everything will work out the best, as far as scheduling goes.

So, my bloom where you're planted thought for today is to bloom in whichever schedule you are planted. This time, recognizing my past pattern, I have put additional forethought into it, and I hope to transition into a later wake-up time tomorrow smoothly--and still accomplish everything I want to do.

"Are you happy, ma'am?"

2011-06-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

I love my neighborhood--so many interesting people.

I often see this gentleman, and this morning I asked if I could take his picture. He nodded very formally and proceeded to pose. I love that even though he is quite proper in his posture, there is just the hint of a smile there--he is happy to have his picture taken.

In fact, he made sure I got as many as I needed. Then, he asked, "Are you happy, ma'am?" as he patted my shoulder. I am fairly certain he meant was I happy with the number and quality of the pictures I had taken and not referring to the goofy smile of "thank you" on my face.

Goals: Return and Report

2011-06-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

"I am so thoroughly convinced that if we don't set goals in our life and learn how to master the techniques of living to reach our goals, we can reach a ripe old age and look back on our life only to see that we reached but a small part of our full potential. When one learns to master the principles of setting a goal, he will then be able to make a great difference in the results he attains in this life."
-- M. Russell Ballard

I am a goal-oriented person. It simply fascinates me how you can achieve more, feel more purpose in your life, and see progress when you have goals.

I have fine-tuned (to my personal style) some goal behaviors when it applies to one big goal I want to achieve. They have served me very well. But, I am always attentive to see if there are even better ways of doing things.

Recently, a chapter from Preach My Gospel was brought to my attention, and I have spent this week analyzing it. The system is actually intended for missionaries, but I realized that it was founded on some principles that I could adapt. In addition, I felt that if I made them a habit now, they would serve me well professionally after law school.

So, what are the new additions to my existing method?

Previously, I focused on one huge goal. This system focuses more on me as the person I want to become--it is more multidimensional. It can incorporate one huge goal easily, but it is a continuous process of self-improvement.
With the new system, I review my plan at night for the next day. It only takes seconds, but I can already tell it puts me ahead of the game, compared to previously.
I now plan the next week midweek the week before. This also gives me a chance to see if I am going to reach my benchmarks for the current week. If I am falling short, I can focus my efforts for the few remaining days of the current week. This took some adjustment of mindset, but was actually quite simple once I understood it.
It encourages me to focus on other individuals. So important.
Report back. I don't have a "supervisor" for my personal development. I will have supervisors in the future, I am sure. I hope to be in a supervisory position someday. However, I can be accountable to myself. Before, I could see check marks and have a general idea of how I was doing. Now, I am actually tallying results for the week. It ups the level of accountability.

"When performance is measured, performance improves. When performance is measured and reported, the rate of improvement accelerates."
-- Thomas S. Monson

I had been measuring my efforts before. I had not been reporting them.

The weekly plan. The current week is in the back slot of a clear-view binder.

The daily detailed plan. The current day is in the front slot of a clear-view binder.

Daily tracking of indicators. In the original system, this is on the back of the daily detailed plan above. Mine is a separate page. I recycle the daily detailed one and keep this one until I "report back" (in my journal) for the week. This sheet is where I can remind myself of specific people to remember. Rosebud needed to mail a Father's Day card (important to her) and needed my help with studying for an English class final.

In case anyone is worried about the forests I am destroying in the effort to improve myself, I get literally piles of these papers every month for work and have stockpiled them. I print my plans and schedules on the back.

I keep the "reporting" very simple in my journal. I just list the "goal indicators" with an achieved/goal notation, ie, 4/5 for did something four times/goal was to do it five times. I need the time to do stuff, not report it.

Of note, I think I am still going to carry a small calendar around in my purse for scheduling things outside of the current week.

How do you reach your goals?

Officially Resigning

2011-06-14T21:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I let my bosses know I am resigning in order to go to law school and that my last day of work will be August 11. I know it is still a ways away, but they knew I was applying (one wrote a letter of recommendation) and they knew I was accepted; but the last time we discussed it, I was still deciding whether to go. This way, they have more time to plan. For example, they now don't have to schedule me for some yearly training, and someone else is going to have to cover the very late Saturday night hours. Plus, it is that time of year when we start figuring out who is going to work Christmas. It just seemed like the right time to let them know.

August 11. Last day of work. Wow.

Student Budget: Beyond Basic Couponing

2011-06-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

I have always been a person who valued time over money. Not that saving money isn't great. It is. But, I look at time as a nonrenewable resource. At work, given the choice of holiday time versus holiday pay, I usually took the day off so I had more time to spend with Rosebud (until this year, when I wanted more money for law school expenses).

So, I have never been a couponer or much of a sale flier watcher. I would pay attention to deals when I was actually at the store, but not much else.

Now, with the plan to live on loan money, I have suddenly become interested in couponing. Not the basic couponing, the get-amazing-deals couponing. But, I don't have 40 hours a week to spend on it, obviously. Nor would I want to.

Once again, things have fallen into place for me.

I talked to a friend, who told me about another friend, who (it just so happens) focuses on balancing time efficiency with racking up savings and has worked out a system that allows her to do that. Plus, she has experience that I just don't have. She graciously allowed me to come to her home today for a tutorial.

Things I recently learned about "extreme couponing":

Often you can combine a manufacturer coupon and a store coupon.
You wait for a really good store sale (in the fliers) and then use your coupons--and stock up.
This is a much more long-term view than the shopping I have been used to (waiting, timing, and stock piling).
You get more than one copy of a coupon, which allows you to stock up, ie, you buy multiple Sunday papers (they even offer couponing deals for this) or use coupons friends would have thrown out.

Things I learned today from my friend about saving time while doing this kind of couponing:

She does not cut coupons all long. She has a filing system and just files them immediately, by date and source.
Date and source file system is because that is how blogs reference them! (Revelation to me.)
There are great blogs out there. I had learned that before, but they are often updated multiple times a day. I was getting information overload = useless for me. My friend showed me what she does. Rather than subscribe to the blogs, she has them in her blog roll and then just clicks on the "stores tab" and copies and pastes what she likes into a master Word document for the week. Perfect.
From her master list, she goes to her file system and only then cuts the coupons she wants for a shopping trip.

I am so glad I had tried some of this before I talked to her because then I knew what questions to ask her, like the problem with being overwhelmed with the blog feeds.

In other law school news: I mailed my second tuition deposit today.

:)

What are your favorite tips for couponing without spending a lot of time?

New Kitten

2011-06-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

Sophie

I know it doesn't look like it in the photo, but that is actually a little bundle of white energy.

Our cat, Sarah, died last September and I had told Rosebud we would get another kitty someday. This spring, we have been waiting for "kitten season" at the shelter, checking regularly. It turns out that one of Rosebud's friends at school fosters kittens for the shelter. The rest is history. We picked Sophie up after her surgery Monday. She was still a little out of it that evening.

Tuesday night, Sophie went on an all-out self-imposed hunting skills boot camp. Apparently, Rosebud's toes, fingers, nose, and hair, as well as any and all objects in her room, served very well as practice dummies. Rosebud finally called to me in exasperation, "This kitty is on crack!"

Both Sophie and Rosebud are napping right now, after school. This does not bode well. I am not sure how long to let them sleep. Only a week and a half left of school--but she still needs to maintain the school schedule for those remaining days.

By the way, how cool is it to have kittens in a foster home instead of cages all alone in the shelter! Love it.

A Saturday to Relax

2011-06-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

I scheduled some vacation time today. Couldn't have been a better decision, since the sun came out!

So, I went to a friend's ball game.

A hit and she's off!

Younger brother getting some strength training in.

Even the mountain was out.

Parents Revealed in English Assignment

2011-06-03T14:43:00.000-07:00

Rosebud had to read To Kill a Mockingbird in school and she just finished up her "character development journal." I am always amazed by her insight, and her whole project is impressive. But, I just wanted to share two paragraphs with you.

"A connection that I had with the book was when Atticus was saying how he had to represent the black man in the case because he “could never ask [his children] to mind [him again]. I can connect because my mom has showed me ways that she has been honest. One time she ordered clothes online and they sent her what she ordered plus two shirts she hadn’t asked for. I told her she should keep them because it was the own store’s mistake, but she said that she had to send them back because it was the right thing to do, and she could never ask me to be honest with her or to not steal if she didn’t lead by a good example too. I can understand why Scout feels the way she does too, and I’m glad that she could take the experience to learn from too."

And then, the following:

"A connection that I also share with Scout, is how her father is, I can relate to my own parents pretty well. Her father is a represented as a good man in the community, who works with the law. My own dad is a police lieutenant, who is also in his early 50’s, and who will always say hi to someone passing him on the street, or wherever. It is really nice to have an example like that, because I’m not so scared to talk to strangers such as workers in a store, even though I get nervous sometimes to talk to the people I talk to everyday. My mother also relates to Atticus because she is currently trying to go to law school. My mom had jury duty a couple years ago, and since then she decided she wanted to be a lawyer herself. I have watched her work hard to get into law school and am excited for when she will eventually get to work with exciting cases."

While my law school goals are not so simply stated, she is absolutely right that the trial was a pivotal point--in my visualization of myself, my motivations, and the timing for pursuing my dreams. (I also know not everything will be "exciting.")

But mostly, I am just so proud she is my daughter and that I have had the opportunity to be her mother.

Review: The Solution for Kindle Users with Double-Jointed Thumbs (like me)

2011-06-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

When I got my Kindle, I was planning on using it without a cover--taking full advantage of it being light weight. I like things slim-lined.

Normally, my double-jointed thumbs don't interfere much in my life, but suddenly, I was noticing them again.

I wondered why reading printed books aren't a problem. Oh, because I read them like this. (I assume other people do, as well).

So, I looked at the choices of covers and settled on the Marware Folio, because of a picture that looked something like this--advertising that it was a more secure way to hold the Kindle. I was not so concerned about tripping or bumpy roads, but of thumb fatigue. I bought it.

Their pictured way of holding it works very well, but I have found the partial-two-handed method to be especially comfortable for long, relaxed reading sessions. Since you operate the page-turning buttons (conveniently located on both sides) with your thumbs, which are free as usual, it is a fine way to read.

You could read the Kindle with two hands without the cover, but that little bit of fabric works so very nicely to support all the weight. Perfect.

Read on double-jointed Kindle readers!

Pulling Weeds At Last!

2011-05-29T20:26:00.000-07:00

I like gardening, when I am not going crazy busy. I like being outside, I like being alone with my thoughts, and I like being close to dirt and flowers and rocks (not slugs).

Last fall, I was going crazy. I was studying for the second go at the LSAT and I was getting by on too little sleep. So, the weeds began taking over my flower bed.

This spring, I have had some other goals that had priority and, well, it rained, and rained, and rained.

The grass took over my flower bed. My crocuses, irises, daffodils, and tulips still made valiant efforts and still bloomed, but often you could not see them. The grass towered over them. So very sad.

I just spent a few hours out there, trying to pull weeds/grass and not flowers so that at least they can have what they need to really shine next spring. I have to say, it looks worse than ever out there right now. Where before it was one even bed of tall, billowing grass, now there are great clumps of grass missing, but it is still far from done.

No pictures for now. It's that pitiful. Hopefully, with continued attention, my flower garden will be picture worthy once again--someday.

But, it was a lovely time outside, for me.

:)

Financial Aid Master Promissory Notes and Entrance Counseling

2011-05-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Sound fun? Not so much. But, they are necessary tasks. Today was my much-anticipated day off from work. Instead of having some self-indulgent and well-deserved fun, I spent a lot of time doing this.

My school sends out the above wide-bookmark style checklist--and I have been using it exactly like that, as a checklist. Going down each item, completing it, and checking it off. Today, I completed items 2, 3, and 5. I have not been selected to submit any forms for verification, which is number 4.

You have to use the Federal Student Aid web site to complete Master Promissory Notes (a separate one for each the Stafford Loans and the Grad PLUS Loan) and Entrance Counseling. The web site lets you know at the beginning it will take approximately 30 minutes to complete each of these activities--and it does take that long to read all that information. Just so you know, they have little quizzes throughout the Entrance Counseling to make sure you read it. The questions are not tricky, but you do have to complete the quizzes. For all that money, I guess it makes sense.

You will need your pin number you used for filing the FAFSA.

Also, the other side of that checklist above was a pre-admit checklist. It gave the web site for checking your credit report and recommended you do this. I recommend it, as well. It is easy, there was one error, and that was easy to dispute and was resolved without problems. It's always better to know.

By the way, the credit reports were free (three different agencies). The credit scores were not. It was not a large cost for the score and you could get it free if you signed up for some other program. I don't sign up for programs, generally, and you don't really need the credit score number anyway. The report tells you exactly what is on there. Just check it, make sure it is accurate, and make sure you fix anything that needs fixing.

It was not much fun, but I am very glad to have this part done.