Thursday, May 31
Once in a blue moon...
You got it! Tonight is a blue moon for the United States (parts of the country will celebrate it later in June due to time zone differences). A blue moon is when you have two full moons in the same month. How often does it happen, you ask? Every 2.5 years! The last time was in 2004. So, if you found yourself acting strangely or needing extra assistance today, give yourself a break; it only happens once in a blue moon.
Wednesday, May 30
Free stuff
Read this if you're interested in...
free office supplies (good stuff, too! 250 business cards or a personalized rubber stamp or personalized stationary or postcards or other premium discounted items)
free photo mug
free tampons, underware, or deodorant
and a free Oceans 13 movie ticket (this one requires purchasing Oceans 11 and 12 DVDs for $12)
Where does all this stuff come from? StealDeals.
free office supplies (good stuff, too! 250 business cards or a personalized rubber stamp or personalized stationary or postcards or other premium discounted items)
free photo mug
free tampons, underware, or deodorant
and a free Oceans 13 movie ticket (this one requires purchasing Oceans 11 and 12 DVDs for $12)
Where does all this stuff come from? StealDeals.
Pyramid
Last night our home meeting met in a park for dinner. We had a great time just hanging out, enjoying the weather and delicious food, and entertaining conversations. Before everyone left, we made a human pyramid! I would have volunteered for the bottom, but I thought my knee would be better standing. 
Then we got to talking about making a pyramid scheme, so a few of us posed for that too. =)
The latest news for Google includes new features to their Maps software. It's only available for a few cities now, but they have data for a bunch more and will be adding them soon. Google also changed their Korean homepage to add more animation. Is this a test run to eventually change the simple Google.com to a more cutesy page?? Who knows.
Microsoft just announced a new product called Surface that I believe will change the face of waiting rooms (and eventually the average end table!). Touch screens with even more functionality! I'm excited.
I also had my tire fixed yesterday, so I won't have any more tire babies popping up. Just kidding, bad pun...but I did fix my tire; the spare is safely back in the trunk where it belongs.
Then we got to talking about making a pyramid scheme, so a few of us posed for that too. =)
The latest news for Google includes new features to their Maps software. It's only available for a few cities now, but they have data for a bunch more and will be adding them soon. Google also changed their Korean homepage to add more animation. Is this a test run to eventually change the simple Google.com to a more cutesy page?? Who knows.
Microsoft just announced a new product called Surface that I believe will change the face of waiting rooms (and eventually the average end table!). Touch screens with even more functionality! I'm excited.
I also had my tire fixed yesterday, so I won't have any more tire babies popping up. Just kidding, bad pun...but I did fix my tire; the spare is safely back in the trunk where it belongs.
Tuesday, May 29
Flat tire
I arrived safely in Philadelphia yesterday. Memorial Day morning is a great time to fly! Grand Rapids Airport (which, granted, isn't usually busy) was a breeze to go through...where else can you walk right up to the security check without waiting in line? I took a few subways home since most friends in Philly were at a cottage up north for the holiday. At home, I finished a few papers for my masters class and tidied up my room.
Sarah came in last night from Pittsburgh after visiting with her family for the extended weekend. It was SO GOOD to see her again! We celebrated our return by going out to Mixto restaurant. I had a buy one, get one free dinner, which we enjoyed immensely. We got to catch up with each other and swap stories/pictures from the weekend, as well as look to how the next few weeks are going to look with my school finishing and her crazy board test studying schedule! Why does absence make the heart grow fonder?
I stayed at her place as late as I could before heading home. Unfortunately, when I returned to my car, I had a flat tire! I didn't have a jack and forgot that you need to take off the hubcap before removing the lugnuts on the tire. Fortunately, AAA came to the rescue; they were at my parked car within a half hour. I'm riding on my spare today, so I'll have to get that changed after school this afternoon.
It's good to be back at school! My computer lab had evidence of me being gone for a week (I should start a collection of the things I find left in my room...), and the teachers and few kids I've seen already were wondering how I was doing. We only have three weeks left, and much to be done before then.
Gotta start my first class! This year's going to be over before I know it!
Sarah came in last night from Pittsburgh after visiting with her family for the extended weekend. It was SO GOOD to see her again! We celebrated our return by going out to Mixto restaurant. I had a buy one, get one free dinner, which we enjoyed immensely. We got to catch up with each other and swap stories/pictures from the weekend, as well as look to how the next few weeks are going to look with my school finishing and her crazy board test studying schedule! Why does absence make the heart grow fonder?
I stayed at her place as late as I could before heading home. Unfortunately, when I returned to my car, I had a flat tire! I didn't have a jack and forgot that you need to take off the hubcap before removing the lugnuts on the tire. Fortunately, AAA came to the rescue; they were at my parked car within a half hour. I'm riding on my spare today, so I'll have to get that changed after school this afternoon.
It's good to be back at school! My computer lab had evidence of me being gone for a week (I should start a collection of the things I find left in my room...), and the teachers and few kids I've seen already were wondering how I was doing. We only have three weeks left, and much to be done before then.
Gotta start my first class! This year's going to be over before I know it!
Monday, May 28
Tony and Christen's wedding
This weekend I had the joyful experience of being part of the marriage of Anthony John Bordenkircher to Christen Joelle Conner. They are well on their way to Belize at the moment, and their wedding was beautiful. They met at Hope and have been dating for four years (Tony went to New Zeeland, Christen went Greece and Africa, and they broke up for a bit in there too). Their wedding seemed natural, as if it were the next step in their relationship. They know each other so well and love each other dearly. Both sets of parents were tremendously supportive and excited to see them marry. Truly, a beautiful day.
One of the elements Tony and Christen included to make their wedding personal to them was to make wedding favors out of recycled paper and daisy seeds! It was all part of their wedding theme of new beginnings. On the favors, they encouraged guests to plant their paper and start a "new beginning of your own". They also had the guys wearing a baby pink color for their tux vests. My personal favorite might have been the banner they had at the end of the receiving line after the reception. Instead of running through a finish line, they ran through a starting line of their marriage and into the car for their honeymoon. What a joyful celebration! Brian DePotty was a great MC/DJ for the wedding, using neat dances such as the snowball and two-line dances to get people up and participating. I wished Sarah was there, but there were some great guys to keep me company.
On a side note, I caught the garter belt! I had managed to snag the one at John and Kelly Hile's wedding two summers ago, so I'm hoping that this one does the trick. =)
One of the elements Tony and Christen included to make their wedding personal to them was to make wedding favors out of recycled paper and daisy seeds! It was all part of their wedding theme of new beginnings. On the favors, they encouraged guests to plant their paper and start a "new beginning of your own". They also had the guys wearing a baby pink color for their tux vests. My personal favorite might have been the banner they had at the end of the receiving line after the reception. Instead of running through a finish line, they ran through a starting line of their marriage and into the car for their honeymoon. What a joyful celebration! Brian DePotty was a great MC/DJ for the wedding, using neat dances such as the snowball and two-line dances to get people up and participating. I wished Sarah was there, but there were some great guys to keep me company.
On a side note, I caught the garter belt! I had managed to snag the one at John and Kelly Hile's wedding two summers ago, so I'm hoping that this one does the trick. =)
The bachelor (party)
Some people have a certain stigma associated with a bachelor party. It's unfortunate that marriage is associated with a prison and you've gotta be free one last night before you're in chains forever. Despite some of my good friends being married, they still have time for me--both with their wives and one-on-one. My experience has found that a bachelor party is simply an excuse for the groom-to-be and his best friends to hang out together. Such was the case with Tony's bachelor party this past Thursday. We had a great time together, and while I can't break the code of secrecy and tell you all about what we did, I can reveal a few pictures:
Thursday, May 24
Recovering
My knee is recovering. My doctor's appointment is scheduled for tomorrow morning, and I'm hoping for some good news. I've only worn the brace when I've left the house the past few days, and although the after pain reminds me things aren't as they should, it's leaps and bounds better than it was on Sunday. My sleep has been really good recently too, for which I'm very thankful.
With my extra time, I was able to fully apply to Spruce Hill Christian School in West Philadelphia. It was a pretty extensive application! I faxed the TEN PAGES to the school this afternoon, and it felt good to finish that beast. Here's hoping it's all worth it!
Last night I had the privilege of spending the evening with the growing Marlink family. Chris and Becky Marlink had me over for a delicious Greek pita dinner, the joy of which was only surpassed by their pleasant company. Becky is due to give birth to their first son in five weeks...she and Chris are going to make darling parents. Here's a picture of them:
I realized that I hadn't taken a picture of my knee brace, so here's one for you.
Note: the background are remainders of Maria's move back into our house from Calvin. It's hard to live in two places at the same time! Then when you want to move into one, the space disappears!
Tonight is "guy's night" before Tony and Christen's wedding (aka bachelor party). I'm excited to spend it with the Reese fellas. Weddings are really good for bringing people back together again. I'm wondering how we'll find excuses in a five to ten years when everyone's settled down somewhat.
With my extra time, I was able to fully apply to Spruce Hill Christian School in West Philadelphia. It was a pretty extensive application! I faxed the TEN PAGES to the school this afternoon, and it felt good to finish that beast. Here's hoping it's all worth it!
Last night I had the privilege of spending the evening with the growing Marlink family. Chris and Becky Marlink had me over for a delicious Greek pita dinner, the joy of which was only surpassed by their pleasant company. Becky is due to give birth to their first son in five weeks...she and Chris are going to make darling parents. Here's a picture of them:
I realized that I hadn't taken a picture of my knee brace, so here's one for you.
Note: the background are remainders of Maria's move back into our house from Calvin. It's hard to live in two places at the same time! Then when you want to move into one, the space disappears!
Tonight is "guy's night" before Tony and Christen's wedding (aka bachelor party). I'm excited to spend it with the Reese fellas. Weddings are really good for bringing people back together again. I'm wondering how we'll find excuses in a five to ten years when everyone's settled down somewhat.
Wednesday, May 23
Some Google humor
Sarah got an e-mail with this on it, and it's pretty funny. Go to Google Maps and get directions from New York to London. (or just click here for a shortcut).
Notice instruction 21!
Notice instruction 21!
Tuesday, May 22
Bedside thoughts
As I've been surfing the web recently, I noticed a few things that interested me. Hopefully you'll find them to be interesting too!
A recent study says that simply by asking people a question about their behavior, they will alter it to what you ask. For example, the study asked people how often they skip class, and the people who were asked the question skipped class an average of more than one more than the control group. This has pretty big ramifications in the advertising world! Maybe those surveys aren't as passive as they once seemed...
Google just took the wrapping paper off a new service called Google Trends. I think this has the potential to best pulse of our culture yet. Trends uses a complicated formula (or as they like to say, algorithm) to sift through all the search results to highlight the ones that have become more popular recently. You can discuss or read discussions on specific terms you don't understand to see if why that term has become so popular recently (unfortunately, most of them have to do with pop culture items such as the bachelor, american idol, dancing with the stars, etc.). Still, I think it's a neat tool.
Another neat tool that has great potential if combined with the right social networks is Who Is Sick. Visit the site, type in your zip code, and it will show you a listing of the people in your area who have annonmyously posted with their recent illnesses. You can even look back to past weeks to see what germs are going around! If enough of the general population did this, doctors could watch diseases spread and/or prepare people appropriately for the latest disease. One of two things need to happen for this to actually be effective:
1. Allow Google or somebody else to somehow strike a deal with doctors to allow them to catalogue their diagnosis of patients' symptoms.
2. Link up with MySpace or Facebook or another popular form of social networking that people use often and would update with their sickness.
Finally, a closing thought. Recent reports have Bloomberg, mayor of New York, considering an independent bid for president. That would make three strong candidates from New York in EACH PARTY! Guliani=former NY mayor, running republican. Bloomberg=current NY mayor, running independent. Clinton=current NY congresswoman, running democrat.
Thinking about running for president in the future? Better head East.
A recent study says that simply by asking people a question about their behavior, they will alter it to what you ask. For example, the study asked people how often they skip class, and the people who were asked the question skipped class an average of more than one more than the control group. This has pretty big ramifications in the advertising world! Maybe those surveys aren't as passive as they once seemed...
Google just took the wrapping paper off a new service called Google Trends. I think this has the potential to best pulse of our culture yet. Trends uses a complicated formula (or as they like to say, algorithm) to sift through all the search results to highlight the ones that have become more popular recently. You can discuss or read discussions on specific terms you don't understand to see if why that term has become so popular recently (unfortunately, most of them have to do with pop culture items such as the bachelor, american idol, dancing with the stars, etc.). Still, I think it's a neat tool.
Another neat tool that has great potential if combined with the right social networks is Who Is Sick. Visit the site, type in your zip code, and it will show you a listing of the people in your area who have annonmyously posted with their recent illnesses. You can even look back to past weeks to see what germs are going around! If enough of the general population did this, doctors could watch diseases spread and/or prepare people appropriately for the latest disease. One of two things need to happen for this to actually be effective:
1. Allow Google or somebody else to somehow strike a deal with doctors to allow them to catalogue their diagnosis of patients' symptoms.
2. Link up with MySpace or Facebook or another popular form of social networking that people use often and would update with their sickness.
Finally, a closing thought. Recent reports have Bloomberg, mayor of New York, considering an independent bid for president. That would make three strong candidates from New York in EACH PARTY! Guliani=former NY mayor, running republican. Bloomberg=current NY mayor, running independent. Clinton=current NY congresswoman, running democrat.
Thinking about running for president in the future? Better head East.
Monday, May 21
A visit to the ER
How did you spend your Sunday morning? I had expected to visit my home church at First Reformed in Zeeland, but instead, I decided I need another type of healing and visited Holland Hospital's Emergency Room. It all started Saturday night when Peter Van Wylen invited me to play ultimate frisbee with him, Brian Mulder, and some other friends. Of course, I jumped at the chance. The game was going well until I dove to knock a frisbee from the outstretched hand of Peter. I landed directly on my knee cap and found myself limping for a good amount of time afterwards. Later that night, I was in considerable pain whenever I moved. I woke up about every hour because of the discomfort.
When I woke up Sunday morning, I couldn't move my knee at all. So, my mom and I paid a visit to the ER. The doctor x-rayed my knee and found it to be negative--no broken bones. He thought I probably tore a ligament or tendon, but those would heal on their own if given enough time. He gave me a black Velcro leg brace and told me to keep the knee elevated and iced, and prescribed some vicatin for the pain. The official diagnosis was a knee sprain. Sarah called her dad (who is an orthepetic surgeon), and he confirmed that it was probably a bruise or something to the elements under my patella.
Sunday was a rough day. I did not feel good at all (I think my allergies for the past weeks may have combined with a small infection to knock me out). Plus, I was sad that I was staying in Holland for the week instead of teaching one of the last weeks of computer class this year or running with me kids. Sarah helped me make the decision to stay by asking guiding questions such as "do you need to be there for anything this week? can you be an effective teacher with your leg up on your desk the whole day? do you have any sick days left?" So, I decided to forgo my flight to Philadelphia and hunker down at home for the week.
The time has passed quickly already! I've had a bunch of papers to do for my masters program, which worked out well that I'm here just hanging out. Tony came to visit last night, and it was great to talk with him about how he's doing...he's so excited to marry his girlfriend for almost four years, Christen Conner. Their wedding is going to be beautiful; I can't wait!
I'll have to get some pictures of my nifty brace. Until then!
When I woke up Sunday morning, I couldn't move my knee at all. So, my mom and I paid a visit to the ER. The doctor x-rayed my knee and found it to be negative--no broken bones. He thought I probably tore a ligament or tendon, but those would heal on their own if given enough time. He gave me a black Velcro leg brace and told me to keep the knee elevated and iced, and prescribed some vicatin for the pain. The official diagnosis was a knee sprain. Sarah called her dad (who is an orthepetic surgeon), and he confirmed that it was probably a bruise or something to the elements under my patella.
Sunday was a rough day. I did not feel good at all (I think my allergies for the past weeks may have combined with a small infection to knock me out). Plus, I was sad that I was staying in Holland for the week instead of teaching one of the last weeks of computer class this year or running with me kids. Sarah helped me make the decision to stay by asking guiding questions such as "do you need to be there for anything this week? can you be an effective teacher with your leg up on your desk the whole day? do you have any sick days left?" So, I decided to forgo my flight to Philadelphia and hunker down at home for the week.
The time has passed quickly already! I've had a bunch of papers to do for my masters program, which worked out well that I'm here just hanging out. Tony came to visit last night, and it was great to talk with him about how he's doing...he's so excited to marry his girlfriend for almost four years, Christen Conner. Their wedding is going to be beautiful; I can't wait!
I'll have to get some pictures of my nifty brace. Until then!
Maria's Calvin graduation
My sister is a college graduate! Maria completed all her undergraduate and student teaching requirements for Calvin College, and we celebrated with a huge graduation ceremony at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Saturday. When I saw there were over 800 graduates, I got a little nervous about how long it would take. Thankfully, Calvin has graduation down to a science: two moderators read off the names immediately after each other, while the president met them in the middle to shake each person's hand. There were a few pranksters who did things like adding the word "rules" to the end of their name. (my name would have been read as "Eric De Boer Rules", for example) Some others--all of whom were male, I might add--decided to have some fun by kissing the president on the cheek, a few more than once. While it wasn't Hope College, I thought the graduation ceremony was well done.
Maria was excited to be done. She says that it feels like her time at Calvin is done, and she's looking forward to beginning work at Holland Public Schools this fall as a full time elementary Spanish teacher.
Here are some pictures of her graduating, along with the new graduate with her Bushhouse grandparents, brothers, and parents. *sigh* She's getting all grown up!
Friday Calvin had a special commencement address for its education students. My parents, Maria, and I went there directly after picking me up from the airport. It was neat that they celebrated their education students specifically through that! They called each one up by name and gave them a nice "Calvin College Education Department" keychain. None of the few guys who were there were elementary education, which was kind of sad. I used some of my spare time at the graduation ceremony itself to check, and five of Calvin's 68 elementary education graduating students are male. While that trend continues to make finding a job for me a bit easier, that also reflects an unfortunate reality for students growing up in a home without a positive male influence.
Before the education ceremony began, my parents took Maria and me up to where my dad proposed to my mom during her senior year (his sophomore). Thankfully for me and my sibs, she said yes! Here they are, nearly 30 years after his proposal.
Maria was excited to be done. She says that it feels like her time at Calvin is done, and she's looking forward to beginning work at Holland Public Schools this fall as a full time elementary Spanish teacher.
Here are some pictures of her graduating, along with the new graduate with her Bushhouse grandparents, brothers, and parents. *sigh* She's getting all grown up!
Friday Calvin had a special commencement address for its education students. My parents, Maria, and I went there directly after picking me up from the airport. It was neat that they celebrated their education students specifically through that! They called each one up by name and gave them a nice "Calvin College Education Department" keychain. None of the few guys who were there were elementary education, which was kind of sad. I used some of my spare time at the graduation ceremony itself to check, and five of Calvin's 68 elementary education graduating students are male. While that trend continues to make finding a job for me a bit easier, that also reflects an unfortunate reality for students growing up in a home without a positive male influence.
Before the education ceremony began, my parents took Maria and me up to where my dad proposed to my mom during her senior year (his sophomore). Thankfully for me and my sibs, she said yes! Here they are, nearly 30 years after his proposal.
Saturday, May 19
Pomp and circumstance
What does that title actually mean, anyway??
Yep, I made it home safely from Philadelphia. Mom, dad, Maria, and I attended Calvin's BBQ and education convocation last night. Things went well--dad reconnected with friends from Chicago and his childhood, Maria ran into a few friends and picked up a nice "Calvin College Education Department" key chain, mom enjoyed the experience, and I ate plenty of free food. All parties were satisfied.
Back on the home front, my dad and I tested various bluetooth devices for my cell phone, with mixed success. I've become fairly frustrated with bluetooth, as I have yet to find the perfect combination of microphone, speaker, and charging battery elements. Maybe I'll find something today.
Jordan and I played a little guitar last night. I felt like I had to relearn several key chords! To my shame, I haven't been playing as much as I had hoped this year. When Peter, Brian, and Scott visited in January, they all recommended that I get a stand so my guitar isn't hiding in its case all the time. I didn't listen to their advice, and now I'm wishing I had done so. Perhaps I'll do a better job of picking it up this summer.
Today, my grandparents are driving up from Chicago to see Maria's graduation this afternoon. I last saw them in Florida, and I'm looking forward to seeing them again.
While we were at the Cubs/Phillies game on Mother's Day, a website called Philly2night.com came and took our picture! It's a good way to easily drive traffic to a website...hey, it worked for us!
Yep, I made it home safely from Philadelphia. Mom, dad, Maria, and I attended Calvin's BBQ and education convocation last night. Things went well--dad reconnected with friends from Chicago and his childhood, Maria ran into a few friends and picked up a nice "Calvin College Education Department" key chain, mom enjoyed the experience, and I ate plenty of free food. All parties were satisfied.
Back on the home front, my dad and I tested various bluetooth devices for my cell phone, with mixed success. I've become fairly frustrated with bluetooth, as I have yet to find the perfect combination of microphone, speaker, and charging battery elements. Maybe I'll find something today.
Jordan and I played a little guitar last night. I felt like I had to relearn several key chords! To my shame, I haven't been playing as much as I had hoped this year. When Peter, Brian, and Scott visited in January, they all recommended that I get a stand so my guitar isn't hiding in its case all the time. I didn't listen to their advice, and now I'm wishing I had done so. Perhaps I'll do a better job of picking it up this summer.
Today, my grandparents are driving up from Chicago to see Maria's graduation this afternoon. I last saw them in Florida, and I'm looking forward to seeing them again.
While we were at the Cubs/Phillies game on Mother's Day, a website called Philly2night.com came and took our picture! It's a good way to easily drive traffic to a website...hey, it worked for us!
Friday, May 18
New job?
Yesterday I had an interview at Spruce Hill Christian School, an inner city K-8 school (recently merged with a 9-12 school, so technically it's now K-12) that has a 5th grade opening for the fall. The interview went very, very well, and I will be applying to the school and teaching a demo lesson. If offered the position, I would seriously consider taking it. I'll write more about my thoughts on the matter at a later date.
Right now, I need to pack! I'm flying home to Michigan in a few hours for Maria's graduation from Calvin! My flight leaves Philly this afternoon, and I'll be returning Sunday night. Next week I get to fly home again for Tony and Christen's wedding! The excitement doesn't quit.
Grace moment of the day: I ran to the post office to mail some Students Run registrations. My bill came to $2.30, but I only had two $1 bills on me since I had run the mile to the building. I said I would have to come back, but the post master was gracious and said not to worry about it, and he put in $.30 for me! Since when does that happen at the post office?!? Maybe the new rates have made them more generous...
Right now, I need to pack! I'm flying home to Michigan in a few hours for Maria's graduation from Calvin! My flight leaves Philly this afternoon, and I'll be returning Sunday night. Next week I get to fly home again for Tony and Christen's wedding! The excitement doesn't quit.
Grace moment of the day: I ran to the post office to mail some Students Run registrations. My bill came to $2.30, but I only had two $1 bills on me since I had run the mile to the building. I said I would have to come back, but the post master was gracious and said not to worry about it, and he put in $.30 for me! Since when does that happen at the post office?!? Maybe the new rates have made them more generous...
Thursday, May 17
Vanity posting
Here are some photographs Seth took of me. He has a neat idea for a profile photo frame, where we'll have nine or so brightly colored background profile pictures of people we know on our wall. he found the frame on the street corner! We'll see how it finally looks, but I'm excited.
The last photo here is one of me on our BRAND NEW GRASS we planted this spring. Yes, our latest hobby has been to watch our grass grow...and there's nothing wrong with that!
The last photo here is one of me on our BRAND NEW GRASS we planted this spring. Yes, our latest hobby has been to watch our grass grow...and there's nothing wrong with that!
Wednesday, May 16
Quote for the day
-Note that this title was NOT "quote of the day"; there is a distinct difference.
Kudos to my roommate Seth, who introduced me to this quote last night. I really, really like it:
As for the quote OF the day, my 6th grade student Natiyaa exclaimed, "Mr. De Boer! You taught me something new today!" At first I was excited--I love those ah-ha moments--then I wondered if it was the first time that had happened. Let's hope not!
Kudos to my roommate Seth, who introduced me to this quote last night. I really, really like it:
“Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Keep asking questions. Keep making mistakes. Keep seeking God. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop repeating the past and start creating the future. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilies. Enjoy the journey. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Live like today is the first day and last day of your life. Don't let what's wrong with you keep you from worshipping what's right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Blaze a new trail. Criticize by creating. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don't try to be who you're not. Be yourself. Laugh at yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. Chase the lion!” - Mark Batterson - In a Pit with a Lion on a snowy day
As for the quote OF the day, my 6th grade student Natiyaa exclaimed, "Mr. De Boer! You taught me something new today!" At first I was excited--I love those ah-ha moments--then I wondered if it was the first time that had happened. Let's hope not!
Tuesday, May 15
What I'm reading over lunch
An article on cell phone user demographics (25% of young adults 18-24 don't have a landline!)
An article on the U.S. Postal Service's new rate hikes and effects of e-mail on the delivery system's profitability.
A coupon for free Haagen-Dazs today from 4PM-8PM.
ESPN.com's preview of tonight's Bulls/Pistons game.
An article on the U.S. Postal Service's new rate hikes and effects of e-mail on the delivery system's profitability.
A coupon for free Haagen-Dazs today from 4PM-8PM.
ESPN.com's preview of tonight's Bulls/Pistons game.
Monday, May 14
Another convert
Hope College is converting to Google's cross-platform of services...including webmail. Why did I graduate when I did??
Your mom
...is one of the most influential people in your life! Well, according to a recent survey, 40% of college freshmen list their mother as being the most influential person in their life. Count me as one of them! My mom quit her job teaching English at Holland Christian High School in order to raise me at home. She and my dad went on to homeschool my two younger siblings and me through high school. That's quite the commitment! So, thanks mom. And happy Mother's Day. =)
Have you ever wondered how much your mom should get paid for all the work she does for you? Another study just tabulated how much her work is worth. (although I think most true moms would argue that their work is beyond worth). Let's just hope this information is never used in a marriage argument!
I got to go to two Cubs games this weekend! While the Cubs lost on Friday to the hometown Phillies, they triumphed on Sunday's contest. I went with Sarah, Will, Michelle, and Krista both times, and Friday's group added Erik plus a few additional friends from Jefferson. Part of me feels a little excessive going to two major league baseball games in the same weekend, but another part of me says, "hey! You had the time, and the Cubs were in town! Go for it!" I'm very glad we went to both of them; all the people who went together had a good time. Baseball games are great social events! As Sarah said, they're great for relaxed conversation--always something to talk about going on in the background, but plenty of opportunity to explore another topic in depth.
This is Erik (who I had mentioned in my previous posting) and I at Friday's game. Our seats were pretty high, but we had an incredible view!
Saturday was a beautifully relaxing day. A friend from Liberti had a birthday party in a local park, and we played ultimate frisbee! I thought that my running would pay off, but I need to start conditioning for short sprints. Still, it was great to play that game again; I look forward to many more this summer.
Ever wonder about that famous 5-second rule about dropping food? It's true! Well, mostly.
Have you ever wondered how much your mom should get paid for all the work she does for you? Another study just tabulated how much her work is worth. (although I think most true moms would argue that their work is beyond worth). Let's just hope this information is never used in a marriage argument!
I got to go to two Cubs games this weekend! While the Cubs lost on Friday to the hometown Phillies, they triumphed on Sunday's contest. I went with Sarah, Will, Michelle, and Krista both times, and Friday's group added Erik plus a few additional friends from Jefferson. Part of me feels a little excessive going to two major league baseball games in the same weekend, but another part of me says, "hey! You had the time, and the Cubs were in town! Go for it!" I'm very glad we went to both of them; all the people who went together had a good time. Baseball games are great social events! As Sarah said, they're great for relaxed conversation--always something to talk about going on in the background, but plenty of opportunity to explore another topic in depth.
This is Erik (who I had mentioned in my previous posting) and I at Friday's game. Our seats were pretty high, but we had an incredible view! Saturday was a beautifully relaxing day. A friend from Liberti had a birthday party in a local park, and we played ultimate frisbee! I thought that my running would pay off, but I need to start conditioning for short sprints. Still, it was great to play that game again; I look forward to many more this summer.
Ever wonder about that famous 5-second rule about dropping food? It's true! Well, mostly.
Friday, May 11
The Cubs are comin' to town
The Cubs are in Philadelphia! Will, my local Cubs fanatic, and I are going to the game tonight and Sunday. Sarah and some other friends will be joining us, too. One of my fellow teachers told me that tonight was teacher appreciation night, so the timing couldn't be better!
My school had our monthly faculty meeting today. Our discussion was mostly about end-of-the-year events. It's crazy to think that school will be done in a month. Didn't it just start a few weeks ago? Yowzers.
Speaking of teacher appreciation, this week was national teacher appreciation week! And nurses and hospital appreciate week as well. Kinda nice that they grouped the service professions together like that. =)
One of my new friends in Philly was in the hospital this week. (Christen Conner introduced me to him, despite the fact that she's in Michigan...kinda cool how the Internet works!) His name is Erik, which obviously means he's a strong, good-looking individual. It turns out that he developed a blood clot in his arm. Thankfully, the doctors fixed it temporarily; he has a follow-up surgery this fall to permanently rid himself of the little beast.
Sarah just finished her final exam for 2nd year medical school this morning. Her feelings were mixed (it was a tough one), but she's certainly glad to get 'er done. Starting Monday, she begins studying for the boards, which essentially are a review of the previous two years of medical school. The studying schedule is pretty ridiculous...the average schedule is about 12 hours of studying EVERY DAY. Fortunately, Sarah has an optimistic view on it--focusing on the fact that she will have a few hours each day when she can completely relax because there's no way she can learn everything for the 8-hour exam in mid-June.
I'm currently in the market for summer jobs here in Philly. I'd like to make a little bit of money, and do something that allows me to have the evenings off. We'll see what develops.
My school had our monthly faculty meeting today. Our discussion was mostly about end-of-the-year events. It's crazy to think that school will be done in a month. Didn't it just start a few weeks ago? Yowzers.
Speaking of teacher appreciation, this week was national teacher appreciation week! And nurses and hospital appreciate week as well. Kinda nice that they grouped the service professions together like that. =)
One of my new friends in Philly was in the hospital this week. (Christen Conner introduced me to him, despite the fact that she's in Michigan...kinda cool how the Internet works!) His name is Erik, which obviously means he's a strong, good-looking individual. It turns out that he developed a blood clot in his arm. Thankfully, the doctors fixed it temporarily; he has a follow-up surgery this fall to permanently rid himself of the little beast.
Sarah just finished her final exam for 2nd year medical school this morning. Her feelings were mixed (it was a tough one), but she's certainly glad to get 'er done. Starting Monday, she begins studying for the boards, which essentially are a review of the previous two years of medical school. The studying schedule is pretty ridiculous...the average schedule is about 12 hours of studying EVERY DAY. Fortunately, Sarah has an optimistic view on it--focusing on the fact that she will have a few hours each day when she can completely relax because there's no way she can learn everything for the 8-hour exam in mid-June.
I'm currently in the market for summer jobs here in Philly. I'd like to make a little bit of money, and do something that allows me to have the evenings off. We'll see what develops.
Tuesday, May 8
Broad Street Photographs
My roommate, Seth, refuses to call the things he takes with his camera "pictures"...to an artist, they are "photographs". Personally, I think mine can be both--when it's a good shot, it's a photograph...when it's a quick snapshot, it's a picture.....or even a lower class title: "pic". Anyway, here are some memories from Sunday's Broad Street Run, courtesy of my vice-principal Rosemary and Sarah.
One of my beautiful 8th grade girls who ran.
Mid-race with "Kwaamia", Sarah, and me.
Some of our team after the finish line.
This is "Dominique", who had never run more than 4 miles in her life. She was determined to run all 10 miles, and she did! The rest of the team had finished 30-60 minutes before she did, and we all realized she was still out there. So, a few of us went back, found her, and went with her for the last leg of the race. Jogging the last half mile with her was the most rewarding part of the day; it moved me to tears. Everyone cheered and clapped when she neared the finish. It was so neat to see the students come around and encourage her. The whole story reminded me of Jesus' parable of the lost sheep.
Sarah makes an excellent running buddy--even though her hair doesn't stand straight up like the girl in the background's!
One of my beautiful 8th grade girls who ran.
Mid-race with "Kwaamia", Sarah, and me.
Some of our team after the finish line.
This is "Dominique", who had never run more than 4 miles in her life. She was determined to run all 10 miles, and she did! The rest of the team had finished 30-60 minutes before she did, and we all realized she was still out there. So, a few of us went back, found her, and went with her for the last leg of the race. Jogging the last half mile with her was the most rewarding part of the day; it moved me to tears. Everyone cheered and clapped when she neared the finish. It was so neat to see the students come around and encourage her. The whole story reminded me of Jesus' parable of the lost sheep.
Sarah makes an excellent running buddy--even though her hair doesn't stand straight up like the girl in the background's!
Monday, May 7
10 miles strong
We made it! Yesterday 17,800 people ran the 10-mile Broad Street Run in Central Philadelphia. The weather was nearly perfect for a race, with the temperature in the 60s, beautiful sunshine, and the wind at our backs. In a shocking twist of events, I didn't even lose much sweat! Going up to the race, most of the students had never run farther than 6 miles. I had expected 5-7 of the 23 runners to finish the 10-mile trek. Instead of only 5-7, we had 20 of 23 finish!!!! Most of the students finished on willpower alone, and it was tremendously rewarding to see EVERYONE go beyond what they thought they could do.
Personally, I had a awesome time. Races like that are so much fun! Being part of the Students Run program is the icing on the cake; when I'm encouraging students to do their best, I forget about myself. (funny...is sounds like the Bible might say something about that!) Sarah and I started with a bunch of runners, then decided to run with a 7th grade girl named "Kwaamia" for the whole race (before the race she had asked me to run with her). It was hard at times because both of us wanted to go faster and not stop to walk much, but we wanted to stay and encourage Kwaamia. The three of us finished the race in just over two hours! Kwaamia had never gone farther than 6 miles before, and she was appropriately quite proud of herself.
Surprisingly, my body feels pretty good! I was quite tired yesterday, but it was an accomplished tired. My muscles are only a little sore today. Running with Kwaamia helped my confidence. Due to our slow speed, I felt great by the end! It made me feel much better about running a half marathon, and that a marathon isn't an impossible task. We'll have to see though...one day at a time!
I'll try to get some pictures from the race and post them later today. Until then, you'll just have to imagine it!
Next task: overcome my blasted allergies. My nose has been a leaky faucet this past week. Just this past Monday, it seems like everything opened up and attacked my nostrils. Pray for healing there.
Personally, I had a awesome time. Races like that are so much fun! Being part of the Students Run program is the icing on the cake; when I'm encouraging students to do their best, I forget about myself. (funny...is sounds like the Bible might say something about that!) Sarah and I started with a bunch of runners, then decided to run with a 7th grade girl named "Kwaamia" for the whole race (before the race she had asked me to run with her). It was hard at times because both of us wanted to go faster and not stop to walk much, but we wanted to stay and encourage Kwaamia. The three of us finished the race in just over two hours! Kwaamia had never gone farther than 6 miles before, and she was appropriately quite proud of herself.
Surprisingly, my body feels pretty good! I was quite tired yesterday, but it was an accomplished tired. My muscles are only a little sore today. Running with Kwaamia helped my confidence. Due to our slow speed, I felt great by the end! It made me feel much better about running a half marathon, and that a marathon isn't an impossible task. We'll have to see though...one day at a time!
I'll try to get some pictures from the race and post them later today. Until then, you'll just have to imagine it!
Next task: overcome my blasted allergies. My nose has been a leaky faucet this past week. Just this past Monday, it seems like everything opened up and attacked my nostrils. Pray for healing there.
Saturday, May 5
The weekend is upon us
This Thursday, I did something I've never done before in my life: sang karaoke. A few friends from our home group invited our group, and Sarah and I decided to take them up on it! Looking back, I would have liked to have changed a few circumstances around the situation: I was pretty tired, feeling more reflective than assertive, we didn't get there until 10PM, and there were a bunch of females from Drexel who were together (and they were all near the front...it made our small group feel like we were crashing somebody else's party). Having never sung karaoke before, I was a bit nervous. I also didn't know how it worked, so I was quite surprised when there was a teleprompter that went through the words for me! After combing through the song list for quite some time and feeling rather disappointed that there weren't any songs from the Little Mermaid, I sang "One More Day" from Diamond Rio (kudos to Chris Avery for helping me learn that song back in our Nykerk days!). People congratulated me and said I did great, but I felt a little sheepish. However, it will not deter me from attempting again in the future. My comfort level is much higher now with it, so I'll give it another shot!
Sarah, Michelle, and I are going to check out a potential house for the girls on 33rd Street in Philly. It'll be about the same distance from me as last year, but much less in the middle of the city.
Tomorrow is the 10 mile Broad Street Run. I'm excited! Two weeks ago I was pretty nervous about the distance. Now, I'm less nervous about finishing and more excited about the journey. I guess that about 10,000 runners run it! There are bands and church choirs setup alongside the race for encouragement, which I think is really cool. Too bad I won't have a camera to take pictures as I run!
Last night several students, gym teacher Stephanie, and Melissa and Erika (the two other students run coaches) went with a bunch of students and me to a Students Run Philly Style pasta dinner. While we were there, All-pro Shawn Andrews from the Eagles came! He volunteered his time and told the kids how good it was they were participating. The dude was only 24, but he's already played four seasons with Philadelphia, and he's as thick as a wall. A few of the guys on our team were doing the male version of swooning, and some of the girls were teasing them about it. I had forgotten to bring my camera, but I'll post pictures when I get them from the other coaches.
The Cubs came back from a 4-run deficit yesterday. They're suddenly in 2nd place in the NL Central! They're coming to Philly the weekend of Mother's Day. Will and I bought tickets for the Sunday afternoon game, and I think I'll catch the Friday game as well. =)
Jay Leno reported this week: "Statistics show that in a lifetime, the average person sheds 120 pints of tears. Double that if you're a Cubs fan."
I'd like to add that we should double that statistic with tears of joy when the Cubs win the Series this year. Go Cubs!
Speaking of Chicago teams, the Bulls begin a big series with archrival Detroit tonight! Makes me wish I was in Michigan for this one...I'd be teasing my students about it all day long.
Sarah, Michelle, and I are going to check out a potential house for the girls on 33rd Street in Philly. It'll be about the same distance from me as last year, but much less in the middle of the city.
Tomorrow is the 10 mile Broad Street Run. I'm excited! Two weeks ago I was pretty nervous about the distance. Now, I'm less nervous about finishing and more excited about the journey. I guess that about 10,000 runners run it! There are bands and church choirs setup alongside the race for encouragement, which I think is really cool. Too bad I won't have a camera to take pictures as I run!
Last night several students, gym teacher Stephanie, and Melissa and Erika (the two other students run coaches) went with a bunch of students and me to a Students Run Philly Style pasta dinner. While we were there, All-pro Shawn Andrews from the Eagles came! He volunteered his time and told the kids how good it was they were participating. The dude was only 24, but he's already played four seasons with Philadelphia, and he's as thick as a wall. A few of the guys on our team were doing the male version of swooning, and some of the girls were teasing them about it. I had forgotten to bring my camera, but I'll post pictures when I get them from the other coaches.
The Cubs came back from a 4-run deficit yesterday. They're suddenly in 2nd place in the NL Central! They're coming to Philly the weekend of Mother's Day. Will and I bought tickets for the Sunday afternoon game, and I think I'll catch the Friday game as well. =)
Jay Leno reported this week: "Statistics show that in a lifetime, the average person sheds 120 pints of tears. Double that if you're a Cubs fan."
I'd like to add that we should double that statistic with tears of joy when the Cubs win the Series this year. Go Cubs!
Speaking of Chicago teams, the Bulls begin a big series with archrival Detroit tonight! Makes me wish I was in Michigan for this one...I'd be teasing my students about it all day long.
Thursday, May 3
Dealios
Fishtown's shopping plaza near my house has been incredible for deals. Dunkin Donuts (iced coffee), Rita's Water Ice, GNC (free vitamins), WaWa (hot chocolate), ColdStone (I love it size), Arby's (medium fries), and I'm probably forgetting a few. Tuesday Seth and I snagged free slices of pizza from Pizza Hut. We got in RIGHT before the deal ended at 5PM, which ended up being a good thing because they offered us the rest of the box. Yesterday, John, Nate, Seth, and I went to Baskin Robbins for 31 cent/scoop ice cream! We each bought three scoops for $0.96! Not quite free, but about as close as you can get for premium ice cream!
Last night I filled up with gas for $2.83. My dad had called and warned me that gas in Michigan had gone up to $3.25 a gallon! If you had told me gas in the middle of Philadelphia would be 40 cents cheaper than Holland, I wouldn't have believed you. If you're ever wondering where to find the cheapest gas, try using Gas Buddy...it works for most places in the country.
Speaking of gas prices, I found a really good blog post on how to save money on gas.
I can't believe May is here already. Next week is Tulip Time in Holland! This year seems to be flying by faster than most previous, and I'm trying to determine why that is. Living in the city? Living on my own? Having a full time job? Who knows. Maybe I'm just getting older.
Last night I filled up with gas for $2.83. My dad had called and warned me that gas in Michigan had gone up to $3.25 a gallon! If you had told me gas in the middle of Philadelphia would be 40 cents cheaper than Holland, I wouldn't have believed you. If you're ever wondering where to find the cheapest gas, try using Gas Buddy...it works for most places in the country.
Speaking of gas prices, I found a really good blog post on how to save money on gas.
I can't believe May is here already. Next week is Tulip Time in Holland! This year seems to be flying by faster than most previous, and I'm trying to determine why that is. Living in the city? Living on my own? Having a full time job? Who knows. Maybe I'm just getting older.
Wednesday, May 2
Get your Cubs on
I recently submitted a picture of me with some Cubs items to the Chicago Tribune's website, and they posted it on their website. If you visit a few other pages, you'll notice I'm sandwiched between a few baby pictures. =)
Tuesday, May 1
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