unexpectedly awesome weekend.

things have been crazy around here. the life of a student is very chaotic and busy- with tests, meetings, studying, practicing techniques, trying to keep in touch with people, errands, etc.

after the o-pharm test on friday, Kaila, Leigha, Allison and I went to east memphis to volunteer for the Youth Villages 5K. they are an organization that helps foster children in the community. we went out there representing COVD @ SCO. the people were so wonderful. it actually felt like i was a part of the memphis community and were doing something not school related for a change- yes, it was organized through a school organization, but it wasn't and SCO project or assignment or anything like that.

since we were all the way out there, we decided to hit up DSW-- cute peep toe, animal print pumps on clearance! and then went to the brand new chipotle on the way back. Leigha kept saying "it's worth it. it's sooo worth it" the entire time we were in line waiting, which, mind you, was an hour. AND let me say, it was quite worth it.

once we got back home, i had to do some baking. saturday, after bible study at the Newmans', FCO hosted an Easter Egg hunt fundraiser for our trip- complete with a(nother) bakesale. we had some bean bag tosses and face painting as well as balloon animals. I painted a few balls, mustaches, bunnies and butterflies on tiny little cheeks. it was really refreshing to experience the joy and happiness of children. dang, they were all so cute too!

later on, my friend jessica and i babysat for one of our professors. her two little boys are hilarious. i introduced them to my friend "the tickle monster." the 3 year old exclaimed sternly, "the tickle monster is NOT my friend but YOU are my friend!" we had another little girl, who is 6 like the other little boy. we had a ton of fun.

mass today was great. Fr. John said mass, which he hasn't done in awhile as he travels a lot, much like Fr. Matya did, as he too, is the director of vocations- but for the Dominican Order instead of Lincoln diocese. he challenged us to not be "spiritual bystanders" this week and really experience Holy Week, especially if we haven't had an awesome Lent, which is so true for me. yes, i did give up sweets and limited myself to a once daily check of fb, but i do not feel like i'm a better person... not at all. so, here's to making a holier week.