first day: finito!

I've given up on trying to look like I know where I am going.

I've fully embraced the wide eyed/mouth open/aimless wandering characteristics of a typical freshman.

I've also come to realize, once again, that I do not fancy large social gatherings, or forced social interactions. I wouldn't call myself a hermit, but I do enjoy time to myself. And when I'm told to be social, that's when the psycho side emerges.

However, the redeeming factor of my sanity is the fact that classes officially began today. At the crack of 8am I was seated and chomping at the bit for my first Nursing class ever. NURS 121 - Nursing Concepts. The book for this class will not only fill my mind with the legalistic foundations and fundamental values of nursing, but will also add 5 inches of muscle to my bicepes as it weighs like a small child. I can't get over the sheer size of it, honestly. Anywho. That class came and went like a breeze. My professor is a wonderful woman who has done some pretty rad jobs around the world - she's worked at various Outpost positions, been to Africa on numerous occasions, and is currently working with Canadian woman who serve as missionary nurses in China. It's very interesting to learn about the backgrounds of each faculty member, and how they have developed their own passions within the nursing realm.

Following NURS 121 was English 103, with a professor so odd, my impression of him changed every 30 seconds. First, I was rolling my eyes as he introduced himself in a voice so smooth and eloquent, I was sure he should be reciting his poetry at a bar downtown somewhere. Then, he made a subtle wise crack about something so random, the whole class was shocked into silence by his surprising sense of humor. All in all, my english prof. is one of a kind, for sure. He has an odd appreciation for heavy metal music, a deep theological yearning for God, and a vibrant interest in cultural body modifications and tattoos. On top of all that, he puts his family before anything else, and frequently emphasizes his passion for them. He's a cool cat, and definitely defies any cultural box he is placed in.

With the first day behind me, I am still as pumped as ever for the next few weeks here. I know it will fly by - I already have a midterm in 4 weeks and know the dates of my final exams. I still have my first class of Biology - Physiology & Anatomy and Psychology to get to, but it's nice to have an 'easy' introduction into the world of academia.

Al and I have fallen in love with Lord of the Rings - it's our mission to complete the entire trilogy before Christmas, whether we veg all night or watch it in 20 minute increments. What an amazing film - the story alone is fabulous. Maybe when I have free time again, I'll start working away on the books. But I do believe that's a project for another time.

That's all for now, folks.

D.