Christy Lee Nielson

Update on life.....

2012-02-19T18:59:00.000-08:00

For a little update on life......

I am grading a lot, but I have finally gotten to the point to where I am not bringing AS MUCH home....thank goodness!

My student's finished up learning about immigration and Ellis Island. In my class they researched a country one of their ancestors came from, then made a paper doll to go with it and I was impressed with how creative they got with their paper dolls! Even the boys really got into it, it was a fun unit to teach!

My nieces and nephews are still my very favorite...I look forward to seeing them all. It is weird because I come from a very spread out family. I have a teenage nephew, and teenage nieces, down to newborn baby Harper. My teenage nieces love to help with the little ones and it makes it fun.

---Also, I am amazed at how well kids can figure out technology! My 6 year old niece figured out how to do crazy pix on my i-pad, you should have seen how carried away they got! Halle, my 3-year-old niece joined in the fun as well!

---Grad school has been so much less stress this semester. I finish with the 8 week course this week then start up a new class----Strategic Com. so we will see how that goes. One year left and I graduate....Yay!!

---I am excited about President's day off! A 4 day week is wonderful...

----I am loving Pintereset probably too much. Usually when I should be doing other things...nope I am looking at Pinterest to distract myself.

----I am getting into the Bachelor, we go to my friends house every Monday night and I hate to admit I am sucked in. And if you are too, all I can say if he chooses Courtney I am going to scream! (Pathetic that I have such an opinion about it).

---My favorite sport is over....Football, but the Jazz are keeping me entertained and I have gone to 3 games so far.

---Overall, I can't complain. I am keepin' busy but not too stressed:)

---I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes:

“Between the optimist and the pessimist, the difference is droll. The optimist sees the doughnut; the pessimist the hole!”
-Oscar Wilde

Oh January.......

2012-01-23T17:20:00.000-08:00

I say "Oh January" for a reason because that is how I feel sometimes during this month. It's hard to come back to school after Christmas break, especially because I get thinking about all the things I need to get accomplished in the next month. My goal is, to take it slow and enjoy the moments and not get too stressed....right:)

Luckily, I have been able to see a lot of family and close friends this month so that is a plus! I started my communications class which emphasizes leadership in the workplace and I am REALLY liking the class and the reading....so that is a plus too!

My Raider's may have not made it to the Superbowl, but my 2nd favorite team did...the Patriots, so you know who I will be rooting for Superbowl Sunday.

Teaching has been great, EXCEPT for today. I got some major attitude from one of my 9th graders which I didn't appreciate and I let him know, and I also let his mom know too:) And yes, the 9th grade science class had an escape....their class snake escaped and I was NERVOUS all morning until the relief of finding out they found the fugitive. Of all things to lose in a school....a snake is the worst!

My dad has his big 71st birthday this month so we will be celebrating that.

For a church meeting, our president works for the Jazz so we had our meeting at the Jazz game and it was the best church meeting I have ever experienced:)

And my nieces and nephews are as cute as ever, I love them to pieces....

Well, January won't be too bad when I come to think of it, there are a lot of great things about it:)

Almost a year ago from now I was sailing on a nice, warm, Caribbean cruise...seems like it was just yesterday, time sure flies. Great memories!

Good Year 2011!!

2011-12-31T10:21:00.000-08:00

2011----Quite Eventful!

JANUARY 2011: My cute hilarious papa turned 70 and we had a family party for him at his favorite place in the world.....SIZZLER! He keeps us all laughing. My brothers and I enjoy telling each other "the latest thing Rog did or said." For example, last night I took him and my mom to the movie in SLC and when it the bill came to $26 bucks for 3 movie tickets Rog said "Holy &$%## that much for a movie!" He doesn't care that people are around he says what is exactly on his mind and it is pretty dang funny!

FEBRUARY 2011: I want on a Western Caribbean Cruise and it was absolutely amazing! I went with my good friend Cami Slade. I didn't know the 2 boys we would be going with, but by the end of the trip we were the best of friends! It was so fun, relaxing, and WARM! I of course had to take off one week of school, but it was worth it, and I hate to admit it, I didn't think about school once!

MARCH 2011: I found out that I got into Weber State's Master's of Communications Program and I was excited to be furthering my education in a field that I had always loved.

APRIL 2011: My parents, and nephew (Tanner) and I went to D.C. for spring break! My friend Brian, that I met on the cruise, lived in D.C. and he talked it up enough that we decided to visit. It was soooo fun! My nephew Tanner, who literally lives in the sticks was our lifesaver on the metro system, we were impressed with his sense of direction!

MAY 2011: I found out I would be a bit busier at my school. I was appointed Department Head of the Social Studies Department. I Started my master's program and I really enjoy the people in my co-hort.

JUNE 2011: Yay!!! School is out for the summer! I ran the Ragnar with friends and really enjoyed it! Oh, and for a school project I made a brochure for my brother's company NSUPPS.com. He is still buffer than ever and is preparing to try and break his deadlift record in 2012...go Brady!

JULY 2011: My big 26th birthday! My close friends went on a St. George trip and had a blast!

AUGUST 2011: I got back to my roots and went to a derby in Heber with a bunch of friends....good times. The bad part, because not everything is perfect in a year right, I landed in ER. I woke up one morning at 4 a.m. with sharp pains in my stomach. I started throwing up profusely (gross I know) and I couldn't leave my bathroom, luckily I had grabbed my phone and of all people---I call my parent's who live 2 hours away, but it was so comforting to talk to them. They rushed up here, took me to the hospital, and from there they gave me an IV so I didn't get dehydrated. They ran all sorts of tests, and really could find the reasoning why I was in pain and throwing up. They narrowed it to 3 things---My celiacs disease acting up, a stomach virus, food poisoning. Anyway, I was sick for a week, and my parents took me to E town and took care of me....I don't know what I would do without them!

SEPTEMBER 2011: The school year is going great....it's my 4th year of teaching and my 7th graders are the best group I have EVER taught (knock on wood:))

OCTOBER 2011: Juggling teaching with going to school full time is pretty crazy but my friends help me by keeping my social life going a bit too...very busy time!

NOVEMBER 2011: On the 2nd of November my 7th niece is born to my brother Brady and his wife Jane. Halle is the big sister, and they named my beautiful new niece Harper. I adore her and could hold her all day long if she let me!

DECEMBER 2011: My awesome research partner and I finished our big--long research paper where we studied the impact of school announcements in my middle school. Christmas parties, shopping, packing.....yay for Christmas and New Years!

I am lucky to have an amazing family and great friends! I still love running, beading, and watching football. I love my job and the people I work with. I still have places I want to travel to so hopefully I can visit somewhere fun in 2012, if there is a beach I will always be happy!

May everyone have an even better year during 2012..Happy New Year!!

New Baby in the family!!

2011-11-03T12:28:00.001-07:00

Harper Elizabeth Nielson....11/2/2011

So I just don't think there is anything more precious than a new baby in the family!! Harper Elizabeth Nielson is my newest niece and she weighed 5 lbs. and 13 ounces...just a cute little thing! Her mama was happy that she only had to push 5 minutes versus 7 hours for her first.
I went to the hospital after my class and held her for a few hours. Harper was so sweet and just slept the entire time. Her skin is so soft and smooth and I could literally hold her all day! I love little girls and it will be so fun to have this new addition to our family!
Congrats Jane & Brady!

Yay for Fall!

2011-10-02T18:53:00.000-07:00

So fall is my very favorite season of all, I am pretty sure I have posted this before but I love everything about fall! My favorites are:

1. Football Season (BYU isn't great this year but the Raiders are getting better!)
2. Fall leaves....my friends and I just took a drive up to Snowbird and Alta and the leaves were beautiful!
3. Great Holidays to look forward to!
4. Hot Chocolate
5. Burning Pumpkin Spice Candles
6. Birthday parties-I am not joking when I say 80% of my fam. is born in the fall, and I CAN'T WAIT for my new neice Harper to join our family this next month!
7. Candy corn!!! Love it!
8. Sweater season, jackets, scarves, etc..
9. Crisp weather...not too hot, not too cold.
10. Curriculumn...I love my fall curriculumn it's Native American's & LDS pioneers.

The list can go on and on but I really enjoy fall, there are many things to look for ward to...it's a great change!

Oh, and I am adding an adorable picture of my 2 1/2 year old niece Halle Jae who will be a big sister soon...she is growing right up and I think she looks beautiful in this picture! I love my nieces and nephews they are wonderful!

My randomness

2011-07-19T22:42:00.000-07:00

So It is July 19th and I should be working more on my final project for my class, but I figured this would be a good....productive distraction. So I will update my life with pictures because those are much more fun....Well, since I last wrote I ran the Ragnar Relay and as much as I was dreading it, I had fun because my group was awesome!
I have made quite a few trips down to Ephraim and LOVE going up to the mountains. It literally takes like 10 min. to get winding up the mountain in my hometown and I love it, it is sooooo peaceful.
In other random news, the Nielson Farm was happy to get their first crop of hay up before all the rain. Yes, even though the rain has been nice...it can be very costly for farmers so this year my dad and brother were less stressed because their hay was NOT ruined by rain. Whenever it rains I love it, but I always worry a bit during crop seasons, the farmers daughter in me:)
I have tended my cute niece Halle Jae and she keeps me smiling and on my toes!
I went with friends to St. George and we had a great time going to dinner, relaxing, shopping, watching movies, and catching up!
I had a birthday! It was a wonderful birthday, I turned the big 26 and had a great day. My friends and I hit the Ute Stampede Rodeo as we do every year, but the saddest thing happened....a horse broke it's leg and therefore, we all knew they would have to put it down so that was sad to see!
I am finished with my summer class this Monday and I CAN'T WAIT!
I love the summer and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE sleeping in!
Oh......and I HATE the back to school commercials, they at least need to get us through July without them right:)

Summer thus far.....

2011-07-01T23:27:00.000-07:00

So I seriously can not believe it is July already! June literally flew by this time, and I really need savor my summer moments before school starts back up!
Here is what I have been up to lately:

1. Been to Ephraim to visit my parents a few times...so relaxing.
2. Been on a few dates...
3. Been swimming.
4. Been working on my Master's program....but I went from 3 to ONE class now so it's much more chill!
5. Been....gettin' a scholarship for school! I was so relieved to get a mini scholarship and save some mula!
6. Been hangin' out with friends and roomies...(I even "dragged State Street" like a teenager last night and it was a blast!
7. Been reading....Started "The Help" and highly suggest it....I love it!
8. Been buying music off of itunes here are a few: Matt Wertz, Blake Shelton, Rihanna, Cranberries....that's right, I have a wide genre.
9. Been playing with my ADORABLE nieces and nephews
10. Been going for runs and walks and even cancelled my gym membership for the summer because I LOVE being outside to work out....Need that Vitamin D right!

Well, no vacations planned because I went during the school year....so I think fondly of my time I spent at the beach in February and longingly wish I could go back to the beach this summer....but--at least I have pictures to reminisce about the beach with:)
Enjoy the summer it goes WAY too fast!

Grad School and DC

2011-05-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

So this past month has gone by SO fast and I feel like a lot has happened. For Spring Break me, my parents, and my 15 year old nephew went to Washington DC together and we had a great time! I feel like it has been a rat race since I got home so I have not uploaded pix yet but they will be coming.....There was so much history there, I will definitely have to go back because there is no way to get it all in, in 4 days but we sure tried! Probably my favorite thing to see was George Washington's house at Mt. Vernon...it was absolutely beautiful!
Something else that is just beginning is grad school...through Weber State this time. I started grad school through SUU last year and took 2 classes that transferred over to Weber State. I am in the MPC (Masters of Professional Communications) program. I went to a 6 hour presentation on Saturday and go a feel for what I will be doing for the next two years. I know it is going to be A LOT of work...but it should be a great experience, I enjoy learning about communications a lot. There are 26 of us in the program so I am sure by the end of the program, I will know each one of them very well.
Something else really cool, is I took out my endowments in the Manti Temple. I have been wanting to for a while, and I was finally proactive about it. It was a wonderful experience...the temple is beautiful!
I have decided not to work this summer so that when I get done with my grad school classes I can take a full out mental break and just chill....that will be nice to get to that point! In the meantime, 18 DAYS LEFT OF TEACHING!

Cruisin and Springtime....

2011-04-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

So it has been a while since I posted! A lot has happened to me....the big thing is I went on a Western Caribbean Cruise! I went with some friends in February, took an entire week off of school and everything but it was very well worth it! We hit the Cayman Islands, Honduras, Cozumel, Mexico, and the Bahamas. We had a blast swimming, snorkeling, and laying out in the sun. We all agreed that Cozumel was our favorite spot because we rented mope-heads and drove the length of the island and it was beautiful! The week went by way too fast...but now that Utah is KIND OF starting to get warmer it's better here. My students are into their 4th quarter so that means school is almost out. And I start up my masters classes again at the beginning of May....only this time I am going through Weber State instead of SUU (Yes, it is my 5th college...I have become the expert transfer student, but I wouldn't recommend the stress to anyone). Anyway, I am looking forward to springtime and being outside more.....can't wait!

Chocolate

2011-02-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

SO I HAVE DECIDED CHOCOLATE IS SOMETHING THAT IS NOT JUST A LUXURY IN MY LIFE....IT IS NECESSITY! THOSE THAT KNOW ME WELL KNOW THAT I ABSOLUTELY LOVE REESES PEANUT BUTTER CUPS, IT IS DEFINITELY THE BEST CANDY BAR OUT THERE. I HAVE DECIDED THE LOVE OF CHOCOLATE IS AN INHERITED GENE BECAUSE MY MOM LOVES IT AND ALWAYS HAD HER CRAVINGS FOR IT AND I AM THE SAME WAY. MY SISTER-IN-LAW TOLD ME THIS PAST WEEKEND THAT MY LITTLE NIECE KATIE IS ALWAYS FREAKING OUT WHEN THEY DON'T HAVE CHOCOLATE IN THE HOUSE.....YEP, IT'S DIAGNOSED SHE HAS THE CHOCOLATE CRAVING. I AM GETTING BETTER BECAUSE NOW I JUST BUY THE MINIATURE CHOCOLATE CANDIES SO THAT I AM NOT EATING THE BIG CANDY BARS EVERYDAY BECAUSE WE ALL KNOW HOW BAD THAT CAN BE RIGHT:) ANYWAY, I HAD NO IDEA HOW MUCH I LOVED CHOCOLATE UNTIL MY SISTER IN LAW SAID "KATIE IS JUST LIKE YOU AND YOUR MOM...SHE NEEDS HER CHOCOLATE." AND HONESTLY, I DON'T KNOW THE LAST TIME I WENT A DAY WITHOUT CHOCOLATE! IT'S JUST A DANG GOOD THING I UTILIZE MY GYM MEMBERSHIP RIGHT...SO I CAN SOMEWHAT CANCEL IT OUT!

Christmas Time

2010-12-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

It is almost Christmas and I can hardly wait! I have finished my final for my masters class, so now I just need to count down the school days. The students get really hyper this time of year and us teachers don't have a lot of patience so it is not the best combination:) I have most of my Christmas shopping done so I am excited about that. I went and saw the lights last night with friends, and I am going to Kurt Bestor's Christmas concert on Saturday. I am really excited! Some things I am looking forward to over the break.....

1. Not having to wake up at 5:30 a.m!
2. Having work off
3. Being with family
4. Being in Ephraim (out of the city)
5. Reading for pleasure
6. Watching everyone open presents
7. Eating my mama's great cookin!
8. Watching fun T.V. shows (we always watch White Christmas)
9. Listening and playing holiday music
10. Having time to think about all the things I have to be grateful for in my life.

I wish you all a very merry Christmas! May your new year be happy and bright all the year through. I know there will be great things in store for you all!

What I am Grateful for........

2010-11-12T22:09:00.000-08:00

SO I HAVE COME TO REALIZE,EVERYBODY AND THEIR DOG HAS PROBLEMS OF ALL SORTS RIGHT. AND YET, WE ALSO ALL HAVE THINGS TO BE GRATEFUL FOR. SOMETIMES IT IS EASIEST TO OVERLOOK WHAT WE HAVE, AND FOCUS IN ON WHAT WE DON'T HAVE. THUS, I HAVE DECIDED MY KNEW GOAL IN LIFE IS TO FOCUS ON WHAT I HAVE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR, BECAUSE LIFE IS SHORT AND I FIGURE IT IS BEST TO KEEP IT POSITIVE RIGHT!
WELL I LOVE MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS FIRST AND FOREMOST. WHAT WOULD I DO WITHOUT THEM, PERIOD! I HAVE BEEN SO BLESSED IN THE FAMILY/FRIENDS AREA AND I AM SO GRATEFUL!

ALSO, I AM SO GLAD TO HAVE THE GOSPEL IN MY LIFE........DON'T KNOW WHERE OR WHO I WOULD BE WITHOUT IT, AND I AM GLAD AND BLESSED TO HAVE THE TRUTH IN MY LIFE.

MY JOB.......YES I MAY COMPLAIN AT TIMES BUT I REALLY DO LOVE MY JOB AND I LOVE WORKING WITH TEENAGERS........YES TEENAGERS I SAID IT. THEY REALLY HAVE SUCH A LOVE FOR LIFE AND IT MAKES MY JOB AND LIFE IN GENERAL MORE EXCITING. PLUS, I HAVE THE GREATEST FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION TO WORK WITH.

I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR MUSIC. SOME MAY CALL ME AN ADDICT, I DON'T REMEMBER THE LAST TIME I WENT A DAY WITHOUT LISTENING TO MUSIC. I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT MUSIC,IT IS THERAPEAUTIC AND PEACEFUL TO ME.

HOBBIES.....I LIKE TO GO ON WALKS, MAKE JEWELRY, DO CRAFTS, WATCH SPORTS (ESPECIALLY FOOTBALL) WATCH MOVIES, ETC. BASICALLY, I AM GLAD THAT I AM IN A POSITION WHERE I HAVE LITTLE PROJECT TO WORK ON FOR FUN, I REALIZE NOT EVERYONE HAS THAT AND I FEEL BLESSED.

I AM GRATEFUL FOR MY HEALTH. YES I HAVE CELIACS DISEASE AND FLOUR AND WHEAT ARE MY ENEMIES IN LIFE. BUT IT COULD BE WORSE, MUCH, MUCH WORSE! I AM GRATEFUL THERE ARE SO MANY GLUTEN FREE RESOURCES TO TURN TO OUT THERE, IT MAKES LIFE GREAT!

WELL, MY LIST CAN GO ON AND ON I REALIZE THIS IS A GOOD NEW OUTLOOK FOR ME. I HOPE TO CONTINUE LOOKING AT THE GLASS HALF FULL, NOT JUST DURING THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER WHEN WE CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING...........BUT ALWAYS.

"DON'T FORGET TO OPEN YOUR EYES AND REALIZE........LIFE IS GREAT, AND IT'S READY FOR YOU TO MAKE IT GREATER!"

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

I AM POSTING RANDOM PICTURE OF THINGS THAT MAKE MY LIFE GREAT.......

Why I love Fall

2010-10-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

So I will have to post pictures of this event later, but I had to mention in a little blurb how much I LOVE Fall. So here are my reasons.....
#1: Football season!!! Football is my favorite sport and I LOVE watching it! My little nephew (he's actually not so little anymore) had a Freshman football game against Juab yesterday and he was awesome! It is so fun to watch football with the family.

#2: Fall has the most breaks (UEA, Thanksgving, Christmas, etc.)

#3: The leaves are beautiful!

#4: The weather is great! Not too hot not too cold!

#5: Lots of fun holidays to decorate for!

#6: My students are still quiet and scared so they are easier to teach!

#7: Candy corn....just ask anyone who knows me I LOVE this stuff but I only eat it in the fall.

#8: Garden food from my parents garden.

#9: Family get-togethers. It is wierd but about 75% of my family (no joke) is born in the fall so we have a lot of family get togethers. In November alone we have 6 b-days from my immediate family.

#10: It's relaxing. I don't know what it is but there is something about fall that is relaxing and low-key to me. Maybe it's all the breaks we get, but I love how relaxing it seems!

YAY FOR FALL!

Investing in a punching bag......

2010-10-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

So because I don't drink I decided to invest in a punching bag. It has been one of those teaching days and my patience was gone. I have had some difficult students in the past three years, but none compare to the student I have this year! Bottom line is he talks back to us teachers, has no respect, and his consequences, even if it's the principal doesn't seem to phase him. Because of him I need a punching bag to take out my frustrations.....thank goodness I have some really awesome kids because I couldn't handle the teaching career with out my awesome kids. So here was my venting session. All I can say is to you parents out there, please discipline your child so that they don't get to 7th grade and think they can rule the world! I am pretty sure I am preaching to the choir, this is already stuff you would know I am sure. Looking back I have to say I am thankful that my parents set big consequences when I messed up because I learned my lesson. Thanks mom and dad, maybe you can teach a class, I have some parents that I will sign up:). Nonetheless, I have yet ANOTHER name to add to the list of " there is no way in heck I will ever name a child this!". And I used to like that name up to this year:)

Halle is just like her Auntie!

2010-09-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

So my cute little niece Halle had her own drink. But her mom's drink was better so when she THOUGHT her mom was putting the groceries away, she snuck a few sips of mom's. So cute! I love that she is 18 months but she knows how to sneak pop already! She is just like her auntie! I love this little girl!

Names?!?!...

2010-08-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

So teaching has really helped me figure how I am going to be as a parent. I could go off on the things I have learned regarding this, but the big thing I have learned is how to, or how NOT to name my kids. For example, if your child is going to go by his middle name, I am going to call him by his first name for a while because that is how it comes up on the role! Also, some people are killing me with the spelling. Also, pronouncing names can be a mess. For example, see what you think.........Nainoa, Brieocea, Misikei,etc.........Oh, and I can always guess the popular name for the year they were born. In 1997 and 1998 it was: Tanner, Colten, McKenzie, Kayden, Taylor, etc. And what about those names that you think should be a male name but they are actually a female or vice-versa. For example I have a girl named Tylar (tyler), a girl named Bryce! And last but not least.....the unique names. I teach a Saphirre this year, I teach a Barak, I teach a girl named Wanchanputri, a girl named Winter White and a Makessa. But the one that takes the cake for unique names is my girl who is named Mississippi Jackson! No joke that is her name! Her parents obviously love this state (maybe a little too much). Never have I taught a person with the same name as a state, and state capitol but there is always a first for everything right! Well I should add that there are some names that I really like this year. My cute name list is: Camden, Maya, Savannah, Ryker, Treyson, and Kylee. Ask me at the end of the year and I will tell you if I still like those names, it is subject to change!

From graduation to the present life

2010-08-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

Well I honestly can not believe it but I start my new school year tomorrow and it is my 3rd year! What?!? Time flies! I assume people think I really know what I am doing now............but there is always a lot to learn so really I don't. The good thing is I know what to expect and anticipate.........for the most part. It is going to be wierd because the students I taugh my first year are now the oldest in the school....graders. Also, I was looking at my roster and I have a lot of former students' siblings in my class so I can say "Oh, I taught your brother" which is wierd because that kind of makes me feel old! Anyway, I am sad the summer is ending, and yet new beginnings can always be kind of fun! I will keep you posted on good student stories.........they are always saying something to crack me up. Here's to a new school year!!!

2010-08-15T22:33:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning I have a school meeting for school at eight! I don't technically start until next week so I really need to enjoy my final week. It is almost over! So what do I plan to do with myself? I have friend coming up, lay by the pool, sleep in, and just kick up my feet because life is going to get busy again! If you need me to, I will relax for you!

Books to read.........

2010-08-11T21:23:00.000-07:00

So I haven't enjoyed reading for a while. College burned me out, and now that I am in my masters I have been reading textbooks. So.........this summer I finally read for enjoyment again and I really did ENJOY it! I think I lucked out on the books I read because I can be pretty picky. For example, some of you may hate me for this but I don't like Harry Potter and can't read it. So it has been nice to find some fun books and I thought I should pass them along to you.................
Book #1: "THE WEDDING" BY NICHOLAS SPARKS. IT IS A REALLY SWEET LOVE STORY AND UNLIKE MOST SPARKS BOOKS, NO ONE DIES! IT IS SOMEWHAT OF A SEQUEL TO THE NOTEBOOK.

BOOK#2: THE LAST LECTURE: BY RANDY PAUSCH. VERY INSPIRING TRUE STORY THAT REALLY MAKES YOU PUT LIFE INTO PERSPECTIVE.

BOOK #3: LOOK AGAIN: BY LISA SCOTTALINE. THIS BOOK IS REALLY INTERESTING. IT IS SOMEWHAT IN THE "MYSTERY" CATEGORY. IT IS A PAGE TURNER BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT.

BOOK #4: WORLD'S MOST INSPIRING QUOTES: BY A LOT OF AUTHORS. I LOVE READING QUOTES SO YOU CAN'T GO WRONG.

Anyway, I have done a lot of fun relaxing, reading this summer. We have a pool and it is so relaxing to just go chill in the sun with a good book. Too bad it's going to be over soon.....less then two weeks and I am back to business!

Plans for this week.........

2010-07-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

>Today and tomorrow and I chillin' at my brother Brady's house to be here while they get new tile and carpet. It's nice because I just need to be here in case they need anything so it's pretty relaxing. I will tell you this though, if you ever plan on re-tiling, think again! My brother and his wife have gone through hell and back getting up all the tile so through them I have learned I will Never re-tile unless I am super rich and I pay someone to take it all up (which being a teacher prob. isn't happening). Just thought I could save you guys a huge headache by telling you this.
Wednesday---My parents are going on an Alaskan cruise and I get to take them to the airport while being green with envy! I am excited for them though. With my dad being a rancher they are just finally started to travel a bit and they deserve an Alaskan cruise, I will just miss talking to them on the phone since I talk to my momma everyday!
Thursday----Haircut! Finally, my hair is in desperate need of getting thinned, I am slowly bringing back the 80's poof right now! It is not a pretty sight!
Friday------Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum concert with friends......YAY!
Sat.---Go down to E-town and water mom and dad's lawn (since dad's main concern about leaving is getting dry spots on the lawn, we will see what we can do...)
All in all, I realize I need to enjoy my last week of July! It is going by so, so fast!

Kids say the funniest things....

2010-07-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

So this happened back in the fall but I kept forgetting to post it and every time I see my little niece who said this I think of it. So last fall my niece Karli was looking at one of my bling bling fake rings. She asked me if it was my wedding ring and I quizzed her who am I married to? And then she proceeded to say "well Why don't you get married?" just like it was no big deal. Then, my four year old niece gave me dating advice "well, Christy all you have to do is find a boy that likes you, then you can get married and have babies!". I responded, because I knew that my bro and sister in law were listening "why didn't I think of that!". That s all, I just need to find a boy that likes me, who cares If he is a homeless man on the street as long as he likes me right!!! Anyway, I love kids perspective on dating, maybe in twelve years when it is her turn to date I will throw here that line.......

Summer 2010

2010-06-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

So for those that didn't know, I am teaching summer school for 3 weeks at Valley High. Valley High is an alternative school, and it has been interesting to say the least! A lot of my students have come from pretty rough backgrounds, from gangs, to foster homes, abusive homes, you name it! I am teaching Health which is a new topic for me and these students have surprisingly down quite well. For me it is amazing that anyone could fail Health and wind up in summer school, but I have around 110 students so it does happen. Overall, I have learned a lot from these kids. They have taught me that I am truly blessed to have grown up in a safe, and loving home. I have also learned, you really can't judge a book by it's cover. One of the nicest, most respectful boys in my classes came across as the biggest punk rockin' jerk. I am thankful for this experience, I have enjoyed it MUCH more than I ever thought I would!

2010-06-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

So I went to NYC in April and I had a blast!!! I was only there for 4 days but we hit all the big landmarks and had a blast! It really is a concrete jungle and sooooooooo different from what I am used to. If you haven't been to NYC you need to go!

2010-05-02T13:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day:

Where do I even start with my mom! All I know is God was really watching out for me to give me my wonderful, beautiful mom! She is amazing in every way possible. I wish I was more like her. She is patient, kind, compassionate, intelligent, and most of all full of love. She has always known what's best for me, even if I didn't know it myself. She is the first person I turn to with problems as well as success. She is not only my best friend, but also my idol. I have not been the easiest child for her. She had me when she thought she was done with having children at the age of 41, and I came out her biggest baby..........breaking her tailbone from long hours of labor. Mom, thanks for putting up wih me and for being the most amazing lady, that I thankfully get to call MOM. Love you!

2010-04-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

For Easter I went home to Ephraim to see my parents. My brother and his wife Jane and their baby girl Halle came, it was really fun. We spent a lot of time outside looking at new baby lambs because my niece loved them. Honestly, there is nothing cuter than baby lambs they are so sweet. Anyway, it was fun to get outside and around nature for a change. Easter was wonderful this year and I really am thankful to have such a wonderful family to go home to! Hope you all had a nice Easter as well!

I am ready for Spring!

2010-02-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

Top 10 things I love about Spring:

10. Warmer weather!
9. Easter
8. My niece's Halle & Ashley's birthdays
7. Spring Break!
6. I teach my favorite subjects...the Great Depression & WWII
5. Tax Returns!
4. Vacations planned with friends
3. More sun!
2. Walks outside instead of in the gym
#1.----Spring Flowers!!! I love them, especially walking around temple square it is sooooo beautiful!

I love SPRING!

2010-02-12T22:44:00.001-08:00

Happy President's Day!

Don't ask students why they are late!!! Note to self!

2010-02-09T11:18:00.000-08:00

So I just learned a very valuable lesson today don't EVER ask students why they are late for class. I had a student walk in about ten minutes late which rarely happens in 7th grade so I asked him quite sternly why he was late. He then proceeded to tell me that he had an upset stomach and major diarrhea that he had to take care of! GROSS! I did not want to hear that and not only that he didn't care that the entire class heard! Do I laugh or try to think nothing of it? I just turned away and tried to control myself because I couldn't believe that this kid was willing to be so honest! Too honest! Anyway, I will not make that same mistake twice! Maybe he should learn when to tell his teacher a little white lie for sake of having more self pride! 7th graders.....they never cease to amaze me!

2010-02-06T21:47:00.000-08:00

If you haven't seen this show you need to go see it! I loved it........especially watching Channing Tatum the entire time!:) It will make you cry but it's great! I love cute movies.........I know I am such a girl!

2010-01-26T21:19:00.000-08:00

So I love old pictures and for Christmas my mom gave this to us kids of my dad running track in college. He is at the top, this is after either the 400 or 800 race I need to ask again because he r
an both. Anyway, I have bragging rights I figure because....well, I love the guy and it's fun to show off a little family history! If any of you know my brother Brady you can tell he looks just like my dad!

2010-01-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

So I was thinking I have a pix of my baby niece Halle up here but none of the rest of my nieces and nephews. This is from almost 2 years ago but it's the only one I have of the 7 of them. So now I have a total of 8 all together. 6 nieces and 2 nephews. My oldest is 14, and the youngest is 10 months. I seriously love them all! They are so cute in so many different ways! This is a pix of them at my condo in SLC. They all live in tiny towns (Mona, and Fool Creek) so they LOVE coming to the big city! I remember feeling that way too when I was young. Anyway, they made the holidays great and they are wonderful. Being an aunt is awesome!!!

2009-12-08T11:18:00.000-08:00

SO I AM NOW OFFICIALLY A SUU THUNDERBIRD! I GOT INTO THEIR COMMUNICATIONS GRADUATE PROGRAM AND I START IN JANUARY. I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO GET MY MASTERS DEGREE AND IT IS WIERD THAT I AM TO THAT POINT IN MY LIFE. A LOT OF PEOPLE WONDERED WHY COMMUNICATIONS....WELL I ALWAYS LIKED MY COMMUNICATION CLASSES IN COLLEGE AND I WANTED TO STUDY SOMETHING DIFFERENT THAN EDUCATION TO OPEN UP NEW OPPORTUNITIES. I STILL PLAN ON TEACHING FOR NOW BECAUSE I REALLY, REALLY LIKE IT! ANYWAY, THAT IS MY NEW NEWS..............AND WE WILL SEE HOW IT GOES!

2009-11-30T20:47:00.000-08:00

Yay for Christmas! I just finished decorating and I'm so excited! I love this time of year, the music, the lights, the shopping.........and of course the Christmas spirit! We are going to the Kurt Bestor concert on December 12th and I always look forward to that. Anyway, I wish everyone a wonderful Christmas season! Enjoy the Holidays!

2009-11-21T19:12:00.000-08:00

So I went to New Moon today and I have to say I am like the teenie-boppers and I am in LOVE with Taylor Lautner! He is sooooo cute and buff and he truly made NEW MOON worth it. If you haven't read the books go just for him.........it's worth it! (I will admit I am a Jacob fan!)

My 7th graders crack me up

2009-11-20T20:45:00.000-08:00

So I have to say I really, really love teaching my 7th graders! Of course they can be a little wild but they are funny too! I have one class in particular that really cracks me up and makes me laugh. I can have fun with them and yet they still know when to get back to work! Anyway, I have a really funny student and I always have to make sure he is on task. I was walking past his desk today and he hadn't started yet so I told him he hadn't even started and he better get to work and he said "No Miss Nielson, that's just a fragment of your imagination my assignment is done!" I could not help but laugh! I have heard a lot of excuses in my teaching career but that is by far the best one yet! Anyway, that is a typical work day for me and I love it! They keep me entertained!

2009-10-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet baby girl..............o.k. my niece but close enough! I love her to death and I absolutely never get sick of seeing her. She is the sweetest baby ever and her smile just melts you! She is a ladybug for Halloween and it is soooooo cute! I will have to post pictures of her costume. Her name is Halle Jae and she is almost 8 months. I was there at the hospital when she was born so it has been really fun to watch her grow! I have 8 nieces and nephews. My oldest nephew will turn 14 years old in a few weeks and she is the youngest! I love being an Aunt..........when they get naughty you just give them back to their parents! Sometimes I wish that would work with my school students:)

2009-10-11T13:12:00.000-07:00

Yay! Mariah Carey came out with a new album and her new song "I want to know what love is" is AMAZING! That is like my favorite song by Foreigner but Mariah's pipes can really sing it great! If you haven't heard it look it up, I love it! I heard it on the radio and it totally made my weekend! I have been listening to it over and over for the past couple days. I am such a music freak it's not even funny!

2009-10-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

This is my great friend and cousin Bre. She is a great friend and she came up and stayed with me last night. We always have fun! This is a pix of her and I when she got engaged in the limo hence while I am holding her hand. Bre your awesome!

2009-10-06T21:09:00.001-07:00

So I had to add a picture of Pompeii because as a history major this was one of the COOLEST parts of my trip to Europe. For those that don't know...........Mount Vesuvious erupted (volcano) in AD 79 and the ash buried the people of the city of Pompeii. It's crazy because their bodies were preserved in the positions they were killed in. This may be a little morbid but it honestly is very fascinating history. Look it up! So a re-cap of my life...........I took the GRE last week and it is over and done with and I passed! Thank goodness! I am in the process of applying to SUU's interpersonal/ corporate communications program so we will see how that goes. Teaching is great, my kids are awesome this year (knock on wood). I am loving the fall season it's my favorite........Football, Halloween, Fall leaves, Thanksgiving, Christmas.......I love it!

My Life as of now.......

2009-08-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

My life can be quite a crazy one! This past summer I have had the joy of being the babysitter to my brother Brady's little baby Halle. She is a sweetheart and I will miss not seeing her everyday! I live in downtown SLC and I love it there. I work out in Herriman at Fort Herriman Middle School. I teach 7th grade Utah Studies and I have to say there is never a dull moment with 7th graders. This will be my 2nd year teaching there. So since I have my bachelors I am at the point where I realize I need my masters degree so I will be pursuing that this year. Wish me luck! I have an awesome room mate named Annemarie and she is a teacher too! All in all life is good and I enjoy the adventures each day brings!

Europe Cruise '09

2009-07-07T19:51:00.000-07:00

This is me and my cute dad having dinner on the cruise boat on formal night. I went with my parents and my friend and her parents. We traveled to: Italy, Monocco, Spain, and Africa. It was so much fun and I am so sad it's all over!

2009-04-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

My best friend Courtney and I and her sister Kristen ran the half-marathon. We winded down foothill, sugarhouse, and downtonw S.L.C. It was a beautiful morning! Even though my legs are hurting a bit now it was totally worth it! My friend made us matching flower headbands, we had a great time together, running and chatting. We hope to do it again next year!

2009-03-05T21:11:00.000-08:00

When I went to Las Vegas, Rod Martin (who was an awesome linebacker for the Raiders in the 80’s) was signing autographs. I got an autograph then asked for a picture with him too and he asked if I wanted to wear one of his superbowl rings for the picture! He has two rings and they are amazing. It was so cool to put one on!!!

Me & 80's NFL Raiders player Rod Martin

2009-03-05T20:59:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T19:46:00.000-08:00

So my friend Breanne and I went to a Cougar basketball game in November and hardly anyone was there so Cosmo was roming around the stadium to try to get everyone pumped up so I took advantage and got a picutre with him. GO COUGARS!

2009-01-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

Something I love about Ephraim is that 5 minutes away is the beautiful Manti temple. It is my favorite temple I absolutely love walking around it in the spring time with all the flowers, it's so amazing!

2009-01-15T19:32:00.000-08:00

Some of the family at the Sanpete County Parade! From left to right: my brother Tyler, his daughter Ashlee (behind him), my dad, mom, neice Krista in back, sister-in-law Jen, and neice Katie on her lap.

I need to find a picture with my entire family. I love hanging out with my family we are very close and my neices and nephews are so darn cute! I have 7 1/2 neices and nephews ranging from 13 years-4 years. 2 Nephews and 5 neices, soon to be 6 neices. Yep we went from a male dominating family to a girl dominating family and I love it!

2009-01-15T19:29:00.000-08:00

This is me and my roomies from B.Y.U. As nice as it is to be done with the stress, homework, etc. I have to admit I miss my college life at times. I can't believe it is all over!

Work Life

2009-01-11T14:46:00.001-08:00

So I just decided it was time to get a blog because pretty much everybody else has one and I enjoy looking at them. So my first post I thought I should talk about my knew career this year.............Teaching 7th grade!!! I love it! I just graduated from B.Y.U in August of 2008 and I took a job at Fort Herriman Middle School teaching 7th grade Utah Studies. I work with amazing people and the school is only 4 years old so it's nice and new. The kids have a lot of energy but they are overall very good and very fun to work with. They leave me with a lot of funny stories everyday. For example...........this week I had the students correct a short quiz. I kept looking at one of my "known-to-be-off-task" students because he was writing on his hand. Since I always call him out I tried to be suttle and said "I don't want you to do anything else but correcting your quizzes!" This didn't stop him, so I finally went over there and stopped everything to ask him what he thought he was doing, he then told me that he didn't have a peice of paper to write the quiz on, so he used his hand! He had 10 answers all over his hand! And that is how the majority of my sweet little 7th graders minds process. He didn't think through how he was going to turn in the assignment (he wasn't to fond of the idea of chopping his hand off) but by darn he was going to write that quiz down somewhere even if it meant sacrificing his hand to be completely overtaken by black ink! Anyway, my first year of teaching has been very adventurous and I have really enjoyed the experience!