July Book List

Here's my readings for the month of July. I did really well for the first few weeks, but got bogged down with other things towards the end so I didn't get as much read as I would have liked. However, I did read 2154 pages total!

Without further ado:
The Girl Who Chased the Moon (269) by Sarah Addison Allen
The Sugar Queen (275) by Sarah Addison Allen
Faith: A Novel (318) by Jennifer Haigh
Black Heels to Tractor Wheels (319) by Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman)
The Lost Quilter (337) by Jennifer Chiaverini
32 Candles: A Novel (335) by Ernessa T. Carter
The Day the Falls Stood Still (301) by Cathy Marie Buchanan

Only one (The Lost Quilter) was a re-read this month. I will say that I cannot pick a favorite this month! I loved both of the Sarah Addison Allen books and haven't found one written by her I haven't liked yet. She writes stories of Southern towns that are full of whimsy and mystery. I also finally got around to reading the Pioneer Woman's true story of romance, which was also so endearing. Happy reading!

Also this was a special post for me. If you can figure out why I might just put something in the mail for you!

Things are better

Sorry about the emo post earlier this week. Although I'm loving the changes in job and location, I'm continuing to deal with some of my other issues. For instance, I've long struggled with self-esteem and never feeling like being myself is enough. Yes, in many ways I'm a perfectionist, which is interesting to me because neither of my parents are one. I think that many times I want to be the best, but after all my trying and striving, I fall short even though I still do well.

I'm really trying to let my heart be bare and open here and not the "perfect" blog girl. I've written about it before, but I've struggled with my weight for a long time, as in most of my life. I continue to struggle as I have metabolism issues (PCOS if you want to be specific). Right now I want to date but I don't feel pretty, just fat. It doesn't help that when I calculate by BMI I fall into the obese category. It's weird to me that I can wear medium sized clothing but still be obese.

Since I started my new job, my co-workers have been very open about complimenting me about appearance-related things. I've never experienced this before and that's part of the reason my emotions are in turmoil. Part of me thinks I won't ever believe them until a guy (that I'm interested in) says the same. I know this is wrong, but it's the way my twisted mind works. Physical beauty isn't where it's all at and I know this but sometimes when you're passed over yet again by the guy you like, it wears on you.

Thanks for letting me pour out my heart. Know that I would appreciate prayers, good vibes, positive thoughts in this struggle.

My heart

This song is on my heart tonight. Don't feel bad/sorry for me as I know this too shall pass.

In love

...unfortunately not with a boy right now. Rather I'm really loving my new life. I love the city I'm living in, my duplex for the most part (neighbors suck sometimes), my job, everything. It's so refreshing after such a hard year in Mtown.

As much as I love where I'm at, I'm ready for a few things to change such as making friends my own age, finding a church, and of course falling in love for real.

Book List: June Edition

In an effort to be more intentional about reading for fun I have decided to keep a list of books/authors that I read each month. At the end of each month I'll post the titles and authors. Next month I may even add the number of pages read. I started this list mid-month so it only reflects about half the books I read.

Title Author(s)
I know I am, but what are you? Samantha Bee
The Peach Keeper Sarah Addison Allen
Breaking Dawn Stephanie Meyer
Second Time Around Mary Higgins Clark
Lies Chelsea Told Me Chelsea Handler & various others
Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows J.K. Rowling

A few titles were re-reads, but I love them and just wanted to enjoy them again. And for the record Harry Potter is way better than Twilight, though I like both.

First Week

I started my new job this week.

It's my first job after graduation, and I will admit is was AWESOME to be called Dr. Marra. The job is pretty similar to my externship with lots of hearing tests, hearing aids, and ear wax removal (gross I know). So far I'm enjoying the people I work with and have gotten little whisperings from God that yep, I'm in the exact right place I need to be. After all the debating I did, it's so good to have reassurance.

This next week will be even better (or at least I'm hoping it will)!

New Directions

For y'all that don't know I accepted a position at a private audiology practice. That means that an audiologist or hearing aid dispenser runs their own business. Unfortunately it won't be as glamorous or sexy as the TV. Anyway I am starting TOMORROW! My first real audiology job.

With the new job I moved to a different part of the state. A few weeks ago I went rental shopping with my mom and luckily I had the dilemma of choosing between two great places: a house or a duplex. In the end I choose the duplex; I'm getting all settled in and have started hanging things on the wall. The major perks of the place: 2 bedrooms(!), dishwasher(!), basement with laundry hookups(!). Plus there's a good yard for Allie to enjoy. Right now the smaller bedroom is pretty empty. I want to make it into a spare bedroom/quilting room (yes I'm an old soul).

Things I'm still waiting for to put in the small bedroom: a twin bed (mattress/frame/etc) for the spare room, a sewing machine, and a desk or table. Other: washer/dryer I'm sick of the laundromat.

Wish me luck tomorrow. I'm just hoping I'm awake and at work at the right time!

Friday, May 13, 2011

At around 2:45 p.m. I became Tamarra, Au.D. or Dr. Marra. So freakin' exciting. Rewind to a few days before that, let's say Wednesday, May 11. That was my last day and an audiology extern. It was a SLOW day at work for me, but after work my boss had a get-together at his place as a goodbye party. It was great hanging out with my co-workers once last time. After we ate, I was handed a large, gift-wrapped package. Now I had an idea that they might get me a specific gift...and..when I unwrapped the package; there it was a brand spankin' new Vera Bradley!!! I LOVE VERA (note I am not being paid or compensated by Vera Bradley and they probably don't even know who I am)!

The next morning I headed out to Madison for graduation. I had to run a few errands like picking up my cap, gown, and hood and also a special parking pass for my grandparents. Later when my parents arrived we got some Five Guys and headed for Union Terrace to eat, drink beer, and just enjoy the lake.

Friday, my paternal grandparents along with my dad's two sisters arrived and shortly after that my mom's mom, sister, brother-in-law, and my little bro arrived. We hung out until we had to head to graduation.

First up was the Audiology program reception. It was great catching up with classmates, but sad that two of the seven weren't able to be there. They had us change into our caps and gowns and then performed the hooding ceremony. That was when I was called Dr. Marra for the first time. I willed myself not to cry (I didn't have any waterproof mascara and didn't want to be a mess like I was at my undergrad graduation), but my eyes definitely teared up.

After that we headed to the real ceremony at the Kohl Center. It was long and rather uneventful, but very cool at the same time.

By this time, it had started raining and we headed out to our cars. I drove the van with my grandparents, all 3 of them, that was parked right next to the building and my dad drove the other van. We went to dinner at an amazing placed in Verona, WI called Gray's Tied House. I hadn't been there before but it had come highly recommended. They brew their own beer (I personally loved the Wisco Wheat) and the food was great. (Once again I am not being paid of compensated in any way to endorse Gray's).

Sorry for the long post, but I'm going to make it slightly longer and include some pics!

Audiology Classmates minus 2 members.

Hoods from behind. These suckers were WARM!

My family. Interesting note: my little brother earned his B.S. in Animal Science from ISU the week before. That helps explain the super proud look on my momma's face.

Something Big

If you've paid any attention to the countdowns that I had in posts, you should have realized something big happened May 13, 2011. I'm waiting for pictures from my mom's camera before I write a full post about it. It was a fabulous weekend though with beer flowing, friends and family, and amazing food.

Randoms

Posting with bullets because my thoughts are scattered tonight.

• Bought Easter goodies for Allie. Yep I'm one of those pet owners, but it wasn't much just a new toy, collar, and some special treats.



• Job hunt/interviewing has been going well. I may accept an offer tomorrow, but I'll keep you all updated.



• Loving The Office lately and still can't believe that Steve Carrell is leaving.



• Even more than The Office, Parks & Rec is so quotable every.single.week. and I LOVE it. I love it so much I watch Grey's Anatomy online Fridays after work.



• I'm so...I'm so...scared (name the show), actually more overwhelmed than scared that graduation is in 3 weeks!



• I've been a dog-owner for 11 months now and couldn't imagine life without Allie.

Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

I love Chicken Pot Pie and have the best recipe for it and it's super simple, so I thought I'd share it with you.

Ingredients:
1 chicken breast cooked OR 1 can chicken
1 can cream of potato soup OR any cream of soup (but I prefer potato)
8 oz (give or take) frozen mixed veggies
2 pre-made pie crusts

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine chicken, soup, and veggies in large bowl.
Spread 1 pie crust on the bottom of a baking dish.
Add chicken mixture.
Cover with other crust and pinch together edges.
Make some marks on the top crust.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges of the crusts are golden brown.

Enjoy and if you have any, the leftovers are yummy too!

Busy Sunday

1. Do dishes
2. Clean kitchen
3. Clean bathroom
4. Do laundry
5. Dust
6. Vaccuum
7. Get groceries
8. Blog

After a long hiatus (sorry followers!) I'm back. That list you see is all accomplished today! For me that's a VERY productive Sunday. Today has been a dreary yucky day after a beautiful sun-filled few days. It was the perfect day to accomplish my list. Even better, while I was sweeping, Allie wasn't afraid of the broom for the first time! She still is unsure of the vaccuum, but she just goes into the bedroom when I vaccuum the living room and it works for us.

In other news only 81 days til I'm Dr. Marra and I can't wait! However I'm a bit stressed out by searching for jobs. Last week I was told that my externship site will not be able to keep me on after my externship is done. I've posted my resume online and have gotten some interest. I will start applying for jobs as they come up. It's exciting but scary at the same time.

So Far So Good

I was already asleep when the New Year came to the Mtown. I remember watching the ball drop in NYC at 11 p.m. CST, but don't remember the replay at midnight CST, hence I was probably sleeping. Yep I'm one lame, single 26 year old.

Today I slept in and once Allie ate breakfast, we turned on the Rose Bowl Parade. I got real excited when the UW float and marching band came on the TV screen. I love me some Badgers! After the parade, I ran a few errands: got more dog food, eyebrows waxed, and returned some ill-fitting Christmas gifts.

Now Allie and I are getting ready for the UW vs TCU Rose Bowl kick off in less than an hour. I've got on my Badger gameday red, my (new) Badgers Scentsy pot is on, and Allie is cuddled in my (new) Badger fleece blanket. I think we're ready.

GO BADGERS!

Goodbye 2010

If you've been following the blog then you know that 2010 wasn't the best year for me. I don't regret anything that happened as I've grown, but I'm ready for a change.

Even if the year was hard in so many different ways there have been some great things that happened. Last year about this time I wrote a favorite moments post that including: skydiving with my cousin, roadtripping with Bethany, and my whole Georgia adventure. This year's list doesn't include anything that exciting, but at least I was still able to think of some favorite moments.

Top 5 favorite moments:
1. Getting my first furbaby! Seriously I've wanted my own dog furever and I found the best one out there for me.

2. Moving closer to family.

3. This one is a bit bittersweet, but my last Family Fusion is one of the times I felt absolutely and wholly loved.

4. Having my own patients and helping them hear again.

5. First Twins game at Target Field with Bethany.

So there you go; what are some of your favorite moments of 2010?

Continuing the countdown

1 day til my front teeth are fixed.

4 days til Christmas.

143 days til graduation.

Can't wait!

Dentist

WARNING: NOT FOR THOSE WHO ARE SQUEAMISH ABOUT TEETH THINGS!

About a month ago I went to the dentist for the first time in 10 years. Yep the last time I was at the dentist I was in high school and got my wisdom teeth taken out. Why the long break? No dental insurance :(

I've had some issues and decided to go here in Mtown. Luckily they have a dentist here that has a sliding pay scale for people without insurance. I went last month for xrays and a checkup. That was not good at all! I learned I have lots of cavities and it's gonna be expensive as I don't qualify for the sliding scale (I earn too much at my externship). However, I get 20% off if I pay upfront. A week later I saw the hygenist for a deep cleaning. This wasn't bad at all.

Today I had the first fixing appointment. It was acutally my first filling ever. Having my wisdome teeth removed was the only work I had to have done before today. Well the Dr. drilled and drilled and ended up needing to leave a temporary filling.

Right before Christmas I go back and have two more worked on.

Birthday Blessing

It's my bday today and normally I HATE my bday. Not because I dislike getting older, but well I'm not really sure why... From the start today's been great though. I arrived at work with a "decorated" desk. It was full of post-its, the round pieces of paper from the hole punch, and other fun stuff. Of course treats were brought in and one of my supervisors made the BEST shortbread cookies I've ever eaten. I think I had 5, no probably more like 15 of them today.

All day long my phone kept getting texts and every time I checked my Facebook there were at least 3 bday messages from friends. Early this afternoon I got a delivery at work: some BEAUTIFUL flowers from my parents. Yep I'm a lucky girl when it comes to parents. Speaking of parents, they weren't able to meet up with me tonight because of work, but I did meet up with my aunt, uncle, grandma, and some cousins for a super yummy supper.

And the day's not over yet! Allie has been super cuddly all day and that makes me so happy.

3 weeks + 1 semester...

Or 166 days until I graduate. Graduation has been on my mind a lot lately. I know that I have a bit over 5 months left, but I am ready to be out of this limbo that I'm in. I'm doing the work of a full-time audiologist plus online courses, but I'm not an AuD yet. Although I have a (temporary) license to practice audiology, I still have to be supervised.

I feel like my whole life is in limbo lately. Besides the 166 days left until graduation, I feel in limbo with job opportunities for when I do graduate. I can't apply yet and have to wait until late January or early February to even apply. Yet I torture myself and look each and every week at job postings.

Another limbo: I greatly dislike Mtown. That is no secret. I'm still in limbo that I don't have a church here and the one that I want to go to is over an hour away. I can't afford to drive to Des Moines twice a week (once for work, once for church). I'm also in limbo that I don't have any friends here. I've tried. I don't know how to meet people my age outside of work, school, or church. I've gone to 2 different Bible studies and just didn't feel comfortable there. I felt I had to comply to their beliefs about the Bible, which is to take it utlra literally. Yes I believe the Bible is Truth (note the capital "t"), but that it needs to be read in the presence of the historical context as in the Bible is written FOR modern day Christians, but written TO the historical people.

So that's my limbo story for now. I know that limbo times are needed and something great is on it's way. I've never been a real patient person, which may explain these feelings.

Wisconsin Weekend

I went back to Madison for the first time since moving to Iowa in late May. It was a well-needed trip! Here's a quick synopsis:

Friday: I've written about Family Fusion before somewhere in this blog, but Friday night I met up with a family I used to baby-sit for and we went to Family Fusion at Blackhawk Church (www.blackhawkchurch.org). I LOVED IT! It was weird to not be involved anymore, but so touching to hug and chat with my former cast-mates after the show! You guys know how to make a girl feel wanted and missed! I should mention too that before going to the show the family I went with took me out to dinner at my favorite place in the Madison area: Hubbard Ave Diner. If you ever visited me in WI, I took you there! It has the best brunch, be even better desserts.

Saturday: Meet up with Sarah and Becky who were in my smallgroup, to go to the last outdoor Dane County Farmer's Market of the year. It was amazing! I got some pumpkin cream cheese bread and some organic sweet potato treats for Allie (who by the way LOVES them!). We also walked down State Street and I did a bit of shopping for Wisco shirts and a print of Union Terrace that I've been eyeing for months. I meet up with some other friends for lunch at The Great Dane. Yummy soup, fries, and their own Landmark Light beer were enjoyed by yours truly. After that I did some shopping at DSW; I had a coupon because it's my bday month. Got some sweet eggplant colored Converse. Super excited!
NERD ALERT! That night a few of my friends threw the second annual Harry Potter party to belatedly celebrate Halloween. Costumes were required and people dressed up as: Molly Weasely, Sirius Black, Barty Crouch Sr, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, Moaning Myrtle, Bellatrix LeStrange, a muggle, a squib, and I was Ginny Weasley. We have an unwritten rule that a character cannot be repeated, so it's always interesting to see who's who.

Sunday: Becky made me pancakes and then we went to Blackhawk for church. I really, really, REALLY wish I could move Bhawk to Mtown. I know there are churches around that are similar, but it so cool that when you walk in the door with hundreds of other people, you still feel like a somebody and not just a nobody. After church I made the trip home.

It was a great weekend that I really needed. I think it's interesting that in Madison which is a large city, I felt like I knew so many people and felt like a somebody and how Mtown is 10 times smaller and I feel like a complete nobody here. I'm not trying to evoke pity with that statement, but am processing.

Allie's new obsession

I hate admitting this, but Allie has a fast food obsession. I know it's not healthy, but she doesn't get many treats and we've been working hard at her losing a bit of weight. So far she's lost 5 lbs and has maintained it, so a treat every once and awhile should be just fine. What is her obsession you ask, well it's Mc.Donald's french fries. Yep, the yummy golden goodness. Granted I don't eat there too often, maybe once a month but when Monopoly comes around I eat there about every other week.

How did this obsession start? Well one day I brought McD's home and she got a reject floppy fry and after that I was in trouble. Before you get to thinking that I order her a large fry for herself, she gets the reject fries from my order. You know the ones that are floppy, have brown spots, or are the itty bitty super crunchy ones.

Since I've talked alot about her, here's a pic of what Allie's been doing a LOT of lately:

With the change in weather we've had here Allie's becoming more and more snuggly. I can't say that I hate it at all!