New Doctorate Plans

I received the crushing but not shocking news that I didn't get into the University of Utah's PhD program on Friday. It took me the full weekend to recover. I had been expecting it, but it was still hard to not feel bad about myself after the rejection. I am still applying to the online EdD through University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and I am also applying to the EdD program at University of Northern Colorado. I have an appointment with an admissions coach this afternoon. Even though it wasn't what I had planned, I am confident that whatever happens is where I am supposed to be. In fun news, Wesley and I are celebrating our 1 year anniversary of meeting in Twin Falls this weekend!

Valentine's Day

It was my first Valentine's Day where I had an actual Valentine this year. Wesley and I were still just talking and getting to know each other last year. Valentine's Day of last year was the turining point though and when he really started to open up to me. We celebrated on Saturday by having dinner at Anthony's, a really nice seafood restaurant in downtown Boise, and seeing A Man Called Otto. On actual Valentine's Day, I got him Five Guys and we relaxed at home. We exchanged cards and he got me the lion WWF build-a-bear and I got him a new pair of Vans. On Monday while I was subbing, I also helped some kids make their Valentine bags, so I got to celebrate in the fun elementary school way too.

OCD Update

I thought it would be a good idea this week to give an update on the status of my OCD. Since around 2016, I have suffered from OCD that has varied in severity over the years. For some periods of time, it was so severe that I could not focus on my job or relax at home without ruminating. My OCD has mostly stemmed from feeling the need to organize my life around wanting to accomplish certain things and excel in every area of life. It has lessened significantly over the past few years, but I still have random times that I ruminate about something. I am very grateful it does not overpower my thoughts like it used to. I am also becoming less of a perfectionist over the years which has been another blessing.

February Update

Not much to report on this week. I am having better experiences substitute teaching. No admission decision from the U yet but I am nervous and excited at the same time. We had a great primary activity with the boys having root beer floats and playing games last week. My dad's wedding has been cancelled but we are still going to Costa Rica next month. I am also trying to become a Time Out for Women ambassador so I can help out at the Boise Time Out for Women next month. Hopefully by next week there will be new updates.