tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74151222012-01-22T19:33:02.234-06:00Life is a journey, sometimes I take detours...Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.comBlogger5251100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-73009746284766724122012-01-22T19:33:00.000-06:002012-01-22T19:33:02.243-06:00

Okay, I have been using an online dating website for awhile, and this is an actual message I got today: u r beautiful and i just looked your tag to check if you were born in haven This pretty much exemplifies almost everything that I hate about most of the messages I receive. First of all, this guy uses "textese," which I do acknowledge that most people use, but if you are trying to meet people

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-16560036325874678522012-01-05T00:39:00.000-06:002012-01-05T00:39:47.546-06:00

I really had a great vacation, it seemed almost too long toward the end. I was looking forward to coming back to Texas. But it is the third day I have been home, and I got really lonely. And I am sad tonight, and can't sleep. I am really going to struggle with the tiredness tomorrow.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-41245292709756612102011-12-19T17:37:00.001-06:002011-12-19T18:25:18.282-06:00

The sunset was really pretty tonight. I'm glad I got off early enough from work to get a few pictures.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-4520273381085522362011-12-18T20:10:00.001-06:002011-12-18T20:28:30.663-06:00

...this is my favorite picture from the day...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-60856307544506393702011-12-18T15:32:00.001-06:002011-12-18T15:33:47.684-06:00

Yesterday, I decided to go Christmas shopping. Because of the general consumer crazyness that happens this time of year, I decided to ride my bike to University Village, a shopping center located about 4 miles from my apartment (by bike). The neat part about my apartment complex is that the back side of it is on the Trinity Trail, a series of trails that runs through Fort Worth. So there are lots

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-77452281917988937122011-11-23T22:36:00.001-06:002011-11-23T22:44:27.352-06:00

I really have been feeling so isolated lately. I have been busy, and it has been hard to make time to try and be with friends. I am really thankful for the friends that I do have, both far and near. I don't even really share lunches with many of my coworkers. One of them asked me to lunch last week. I was so thankful for that. I guess I feel like I just don't have a lot of money right now to eat

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-56912756179074691862011-11-21T13:18:00.001-06:002011-11-21T13:27:37.585-06:00

I've been trying to take a picture of something from fall that I can hang on my wall at home. This is close to what I'm looking for. This is edited, and I'm bummed that the lighting wasn't a little better. But the color is still fantastic! The original is much darker, and I've tried to bring out the color a bit more on it. So here's my story from the weekend: Last night, I went to work out at

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-53429622483099097832011-11-11T12:27:00.001-06:002011-11-11T12:36:10.131-06:00

I've been back now a few weeks from my vacation and I find that it is hard to focus at work. I'm gradually getting better at it though. I have had two really great weeks of getting to bed early, and it has made a big difference in what I'm able to get done every day. The bummer part is that I haven't really spent any time with my friends here since I've been back. I am finding it challenging to

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-34736911713581911712011-10-31T21:12:00.002-05:002011-11-01T18:47:23.014-05:00

 I was on vacation. Just got back, and guess what? It's fall!!! You know what's also great? I didn't edit these pictures at all, they are as is:

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-60444930973696341162011-10-07T10:28:00.000-05:002011-10-07T10:28:59.302-05:00

Saw this in my cello student's front yard. I'm puzzled as to how it got there...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-14162991526019842592011-09-29T22:12:00.002-05:002011-09-29T22:12:45.144-05:00

I was so distracted today. I have no idea why. I think what happened is that my alarm clock woke me up out of a really deep sleep, and then I was grumpy the whole morning. I don't think my outlook improved until after lunch, which was late for me. I had such a great week last week and yet I seem to be experiencing some anxiety tonight. For no reason apparently. At least it there doesn't seem to

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-21436257043267123102011-09-25T20:12:00.003-05:002011-09-25T21:17:21.892-05:00

My sister and brother-in-law came to visit this weekend. My sister came in on Thursday night, and we spent Friday at the Modern Art Museum in Fort Worth. I also introduced her to frozen custard. We ate at two of my favorite restaurants in town, the Love Shack (burgers) and Zoe's Cafe. When her husband arrived on Friday night (late) we all decided to sleep in  on Saturday. Thank goodness.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-12809642795286767002011-09-20T20:35:00.001-05:002011-09-20T20:35:06.533-05:00

I find it interesting that I met a guy from Scotland right before I did a presentation to the Scottish Clans of North Texas. He needed help with a research project from one of the other librarians who brought me in on it for some advice. Since then, I have seen this guy everywhere. He's a non-traditional student here, meaning he is not a typical 18-22 year old student. Well, tonight, he stopped

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-18683217743837565362011-09-16T22:16:00.002-05:002011-09-16T22:16:48.613-05:00

I worked a lot last week. Too much in fact. My boss even noticed and asked me point blank when I was going to take some time off. So I did today. Coincidentally, it rained. For those of you who don't live in Texas, we have been experiencing the hottest summer since 1980. There is an extreme drought in Texas and it is impacting the ecosystem. Fish are dying, birds are dying, the deer are

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-89581612536009750882011-09-13T18:40:00.001-05:002011-09-13T18:42:20.746-05:00

This sunset caught my eye tonight...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-22594980240938470202011-09-09T22:44:00.002-05:002011-09-09T22:48:29.720-05:00

I had one of those kinds of weeks that just really had a lot in it. Every day seemed long and challenging. I have to work tomorrow, and most of the day on Sunday as well, so I am feeling a little stressed out. One of my friends is having a rough time. We talked a little about it, and it made me realize that often, the little things I worry about in my week are not as significant as I make them

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-6061997655715197232011-09-02T17:42:00.003-05:002011-09-02T17:44:04.210-05:00

This has been the hottest summer I have ever lived through. So many days over 100 degrees. The heat has finally broken (a little). Still in the high 90s, but it feels cooler. So, I give you "the heat breaks in suburban Texas." I have come to appreciate cloud cover, even if only for a short time.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-71804590169837633952011-08-27T12:13:00.003-05:002011-08-27T12:21:37.420-05:00

I met one of the new freshman cellists last week. She brought her cello into the library, so you know, it's kind of hard to NOT notice it. She had a question and we started talking. She asked me what my favorite piece was, and I said "Brahms Em" and she says, "Oh my gosh, I love playing that piece on a rainy day." So true! This picture is of me playing this piece at a talent show. One of my best

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-417453061928838202011-08-26T12:06:00.000-05:002011-08-26T12:06:54.951-05:00

Sometimes I draw stuff. I made this for a friend awhile back and sent a version of this in some actual mail...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-55877825981751847772011-08-23T18:42:00.010-05:002011-08-23T19:54:55.848-05:00

My photography skills do not do these flowers justice. They were all over the place in spring, and now all the grasses are dead, brown, and dried up. It's a drastic contrast between the green and splashes of colors in the weeds in this picture.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-55225298560452287412011-08-22T23:03:00.000-05:002011-08-22T23:03:59.066-05:00

I am pretty excited tonight. "Why?" you might ask? Because I finally get one morning to sleep in! I really hope the gardeners aren't going to be mowing my section of the apartment complex tomorrow. Also, my cello student made cookies with her mom today and made sure to save me some. It pretty much made my day.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-6157748818326592582011-08-19T14:46:00.003-05:002011-08-19T14:48:55.794-05:00

Sometimes you gotta just let things go

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-68094282228787127252011-08-16T13:21:00.000-05:002011-08-16T13:21:51.101-05:00

I'm noticing today that I am feeling a lot of pressure about several different things in life. I've been thinking about how I normally deal with this, and normally, I get really overwhelmed to the point where it is difficult for me to focus and get anything done. I get overwhelmed by the "vastness" of projects... if something seems big and impossible, I don't even want to try. But what happens

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-11063480592805600592011-08-08T12:10:00.000-05:002011-08-08T12:10:01.374-05:00

I had a weekend that felt really good. I actually felt pretty balanced between spending time with people, taking care of business (like cleaning my house) and resting. Tried to take a nap today, but read half a book instead. Then I had one of those moments where my life felt totally surreal. Like I still can't believe that I live in Texas (which is still a really hot place to be right now) and

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-43266734731839741572011-07-09T19:57:00.000-05:002011-07-09T19:57:05.595-05:00

I had a friend break-up happen awhile back; I mean, I started it, so I wasn't really surprised that this happened. But I am surprised at how well this person was able to just completely drop out of my life. We used to see each other almost daily, and we ran into each other quite often at the same places near campus. And now, nothing. nada, zilch. I started thinking about how weird that was, and

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-80952383687717417972011-06-09T12:08:00.003-05:002011-06-09T12:10:27.599-05:00

I received notice that I got a package in the mail and couldn't figure out what it could have been. Turns out I ordered this out-of-print book from a used bookstore online, Jerome the Frog, by Philip Ressner a few weeks ago and it finally came! I was really excited and it brought back some fond memories of my childhood. I remember my dad reading this book to us when I was young. The story goes

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-36655323794837773612011-05-20T11:42:00.000-05:002011-05-20T11:42:43.715-05:00

I've been struggling a bit with loneliness lately. It is a common struggle for me, even when I am surrounded by people I know. I live really far away from my family, and I think this time, I'm just feeling a little homesick. My sisters all hung out last weekend and I'm sad I didn't get to go with them. I do feel that I'm making an effort here, since I know I'm lonely, I've been trying to call a

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-44312508940959424262011-05-18T19:49:00.000-05:002011-05-18T19:49:19.687-05:00

Most of my coworkers were gone today. There were only two of seven of us working in my area, which is how it feels when I'm working a Saturday. So my coworker and I (based on a suggestion from another coworker who works in a different area) decided to do a chair race loop. She pushed me in a chair around the "desk island" in our work area. As she was wheeling me back into my office, our boss came

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-46704287718135736432011-05-08T21:46:00.000-05:002011-05-08T21:46:46.071-05:00

I have been wanting to get out on some water since I moved to Texas. It FINALLY happened yesterday. A friend of mine invited me to come along with some of the history graduate students from TCU (which is where I work), Well, it was a lot of fun. It was a perfect day, and it took us about 7 hours to make our way 10 miles down the river. As we got toward the end, I noticed a baggie floating in the

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-7681012413713490232011-04-19T13:45:00.000-05:002011-04-19T13:45:15.500-05:00

Just found out that someone has been sort of talking about me to people at work, in a "not sure how this will affect my reputation" kind of way. I'm really disappointed. Especially since I do not talk to most people about what goes on in my life outside of work because I hate gossip. I just sent this person an email, so we'll see what happens. Could get ugly. :(

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-90960175433942170802011-04-02T19:29:00.001-05:002011-04-02T19:30:40.701-05:00

I just had one of those moments where I was journaling about my life at this point of time and had this internal battle with myself about writing some things down. It was difficult to do so because when I commit things to paper, it's like saying them out loud, and suddenly what I write becomes instantly more real, tangible, and sometimes scary. The reason for the scariness is due to the base

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-13755537535254785942011-03-12T22:27:00.000-06:002011-03-12T22:27:20.856-06:00

I hate Dallas. I really do. It seems like so few of the streets follow any kind of grid. Also, I tend to forget steps when I am writing down directions. Which ultimately led tonight to me being potentially an hour late to a wedding, if I could have found it. I just gave up, turned around and went home, and I feel really stupid for not being able to figure it out.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-35149826377784441592011-03-08T15:40:00.000-06:002011-03-08T15:40:57.989-06:00

Do you ever just feel "snacky"? I, by no means, need to be eating anything right now. I am not even hungry. I just feel like I need to chew on something. Don't suggest gum either, I don't like it and it gives me anxiety dreams-- dreams about how my teeth will stick together because I can't get the gum out of them. Which brings me to another random story, wherein I was eating lunch with two of my

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-3973921548425259892011-03-06T23:28:00.000-06:002011-03-06T23:28:57.023-06:00

After thinking about my date last Friday, I realized I needed to fully trust my intuition (which I have been told that mine is particularly reliable by others) and tell this guy I wasn't really interested. I felt like a jerk. No one likes being rejected, and for me, both sides of it are difficult-- the rejection or rejecting. I know I made a good decision, and there will be less hurt and anxiety

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-29791925297126101062011-03-04T20:13:00.000-06:002011-03-04T20:13:01.194-06:00

I actually went on a date tonight with a guy I didn't know very well. I have been sick most of the week, and I did not feel very well on the date either, but hated to stand him up. We were able to have a decent conversation, but he didn't "knock my socks off." I always wonder in these situations how long of a chance should I give it? Another date or two? Should I just trust my intuition and call

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-17503948804092492492011-02-28T20:14:00.001-06:002011-03-04T20:20:21.099-06:00

...where did you go? I celebrated my birthday this month... finally got a coffee table which is now the only eating surface in my apartment (thanks dad!) This has probably been one of the most challenging months in my life. I have been trying to increase the amount of income I earn as a musician, so I wrote to a string quartet in town and was invited to try out. I had two really horrible

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-85935118375659308682011-01-21T12:47:00.000-06:002011-01-21T12:47:55.726-06:00

I subscribe to quite a few blogs. One of them is one by Donald Miller, who wrote Blue Like Jazz (which is a very good read!). I don't often read all the articles in my inbox, I usually just scan headlines and read the articles that look the most interesting. Miller's topic today was Lead by being yourself. That headline was all I read, but it was a good reminder for me today. I'm taking over

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-704675179073205722011-01-14T16:09:00.001-06:002011-01-14T16:11:21.558-06:00

I've learned a lot about setting goals in the last two years. It has been a pretty amazing experience. I have learned that goals that seem impossible really aren't if I set smaller goals that will help get me there. Up to this point in my life, I did not like setting goals. This is due to a fear of failure. If I never set goals, I'll never fail! Go me! However, if I don't set goals, I have found

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-85667272865262534452011-01-07T13:11:00.006-06:002011-01-21T13:23:25.125-06:00

This was in San Diego. This photo might be a framer...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-72630095887626809532010-12-03T21:35:00.000-06:002010-12-03T21:35:33.490-06:00

I was teaching one of my cello students the other day, and one of the things I noticed and wanted to correct was his posture. He was playing with his shoulders  rounded, and both elbows were tucked into his side. It gave the impression that he was huddled around the instrument. The resulting sound while he was playing this way, if you can imagine, was one that sounded pinched, closed off, weak,

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-14342508288616394582010-09-24T14:42:00.002-05:002010-09-24T17:57:37.847-05:00

I suppose that one of the dreams I entertain that seems rather impossible to attain is the one in which I get to jam out on cello with musicians from my favorite bands. You know, the ones who have multiple albums and national or world recognition. I would love to have those people in my living room and make music with them. Well, I sort of had a taste of that last weekend. I went to a

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-60175771700443103332010-09-22T16:00:00.001-05:002010-09-22T16:03:51.594-05:00

Don't just ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. --Howard ThurmanThe place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. --Frederick Buechner"Little girl, what do you want to be when you grow up?" "Alive." --Calvin Miller, The SingerI've been doing a lot of

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-86207301801701574882010-09-09T21:42:00.000-05:002010-09-09T21:42:44.366-05:00

You know, when I truly feel at peace with myself, that's when I am the most creative. The ideas just flow, and I experience this sense of awe and wonder at the world we live in. It makes me feel whimsical and playful. I don't often feel this way, but it has been happening more lately. I need to remember to continue to give myself the freedom to create without constraint, without fear or judgment

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-7259071524955074872010-08-24T11:41:00.000-05:002010-08-24T11:41:13.078-05:00

Last Sunday, I visited a friend's church. I really enjoyed the service. At the end of it, I was given $20 from one of the elders there and was told to "be generous." I have no idea how I want to give this money away. What would you do? The only parameters are to "be generous."

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-32912605940128986062010-08-22T21:44:00.000-05:002010-08-22T21:44:07.171-05:00

I had the privilege of attending frog camp this year... the freshman orientation camp at TCU as a staff facilitator. It was a meaningful time for the incoming freshmen. But they aren't the only ones that got to take something away... I was reminded that it's still important to take time out to be silly and laugh, a lot-- to play in the pool, ride on the water slides, play foosball and run

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-14229226016122056012010-08-22T21:33:00.000-05:002010-08-22T21:33:09.644-05:00

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-30985560935501094012010-08-21T23:15:00.002-05:002010-08-21T23:17:08.491-05:00

I decided to try some more collaging tonight. My piece is still drying, but I think I like it... not sure yet. :) So here, it is still wet. I may edit this post later once this is dry. I based this collage on this picture:

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-32551632287261570642010-08-04T20:11:00.000-05:002010-08-04T20:11:30.755-05:00

So. I finally bought a newer car. It runs so well. I'm still in the process of figuring out what to do with my old one (that doesn't run). I went to Bethany, OK with a friend of mine. We stayed with her Aunt and Uncle up there. Her Uncle, Doug, knows everyone in town up there, and he knew I was looking for something. He had scouted out this car for me and I got a sweet deal on it because he knew

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-82138430835180084482010-07-23T14:02:00.000-05:002010-07-23T14:02:54.964-05:00

I have a lot going on in my life right now. When I go silent on the blog, it usually means my mind is working overtime. My car, the trusty 1995 Mercury Tracer, has finally died. It has served me well over the years, but the time has come for me to get a newer car. The timing isn't great, since I do not feel like I'm in the best financial position to get something right now. However, I do need

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-72534338179887947772010-07-20T14:33:00.002-05:002010-07-23T14:43:15.916-05:00

I just got back from a fun little road trip. Went on a "mini-tour" with Vanessa Peters. It was so fun! First, we went to Dosey Doe's, a venue in the outskirts of Houston. We got to play in an old barn. It had been moved there from Kansas and the sound set-up was amazing! My cello has never sounded better. The next night, we played at a hotel lounge in Austin. That's the kind of show where no one

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-36845552698436471872010-07-18T09:10:00.001-05:002010-07-23T14:32:43.016-05:00

I did want to write about my summer travels. I went back to CA in June to go to a wedding for a friend of mine in San Diego. It was beautiful, and I'm so glad I got to go back and see most of my friends. I got to go to Woodstocks with a bunch of people I love, and it sort of turned into a reunion, because many of them hadn't seen each other in awhile either. It was a good time to catch up, chill,

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-36622383409458354762010-07-01T20:22:00.001-05:002010-07-01T20:23:08.667-05:00

What a trip! I just got back from my vacation to California, to the lovely cities of San Diego and Fresno. I had a great time-- got to see most of the people I wanted to see and went to a wedding, which was fun and beautiful. I got to attend this one, I didn't have to play cello at this wedding. I also got to meet my new nephew who was born on June 18. Welcome to the world, Hudson! He looks

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-23219760355980995422010-06-13T22:36:00.002-05:002010-06-13T22:37:09.396-05:00

So, I was playing around with images, washes, and paper today. Then I realized that these images were much more interesting when I put them all together.This picture makes them look a little better (brighter) than they actually are. I am more inclined to throw these ones out than to keep them, but at the same time, I could also choose to use them in a future project.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-48788072147259570832010-06-01T18:10:00.003-05:002010-06-13T22:50:02.349-05:00

I'm feeling a little homesick and lonely this week. Nothing helps a little homesickness like reviewing pictures with friends and family. Here's a spectacular sunset that I got to see with friends back in January in San Diego. This is at Coronado Beach.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-68877415850619392612010-05-29T23:17:00.002-05:002010-05-29T23:31:13.775-05:00

My two favorite experimental results from tonight's art experiments. Playing with different kinds of paper and medium matte. Fun! Obviously, I liked the tissue paper best, though I also used some cardstock for each of these as well. I like the texture the tissue paper creates.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-14606970400429490462010-05-25T18:51:00.000-05:002010-05-25T18:51:54.633-05:00

Okay, so the experiment here was to just go through a bunch of magazines and find colors that you like, glue the "swatches" to paper, and then see what colors you tend to use the most. I found this to be an interesting exercise. I must admit, I do really like bold colors, red, yellow, orange, but I also really like the cool ones-- blues and greens. Most of my house is decorated in shades of green

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-1642248301805801922010-05-23T16:50:00.000-05:002010-05-23T16:50:49.323-05:00

I bought this art book a few weeks ago and it has experiments to try. So I tried one yesterday.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-18714768980987763432010-05-19T21:47:00.000-05:002010-05-19T21:47:02.961-05:00

These last two months, I have visited six different churches. I am really drawn to one of them in particular, but there's this guy who goes there that I know, and I'm not very comfortable interacting with him. I feel like there are very few people I feel skeptical about, and he is one of them. I really like this church. But it's too small to avoid interacting with this guy. I feel really stupid

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-45584910139560376422010-05-01T13:47:00.001-05:002010-05-01T13:48:59.233-05:00

One of the ideas frequently mentioned in the Bible is that of mediation. Just a few examples: Do not let this book of the law depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night...Give ear to my words, Oh Lord, Consider my meditation...I often feel like one of those hypocritical Christians because I pray so rarely. It often feels beyond my comprehension to sit down and "connect" to an entity

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-18560558114070075102010-04-30T11:17:00.000-05:002010-04-30T11:17:55.049-05:00

I'm kind of excited because I recently met the assistant director of student development at the university where I work and he suggested I apply to be a staff partner for their camps for incoming students. So I signed up this week! I'm very excited. The particular camp I'm attending is a weekend long challenge competition. It's gonna be fun!

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-83405117681882267792010-04-29T10:23:00.000-05:002010-04-29T10:23:16.982-05:00

I visited not one but TWO churches on Sunday last week. The first was because they asked me to come play cello, which I did. Then I went to another service after that at another church. That's an interesting story. As I was doing my research for churches, I came across one where I couldn't find the service times listed anywhere on their website. If it had been my website, I would have wanted to

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-77921626891146670392010-04-18T11:13:00.000-05:002010-04-18T11:13:32.748-05:00

So I just got back from church. It was my first time trying something different since last July. The service was more my style, so I felt relieved that there's something out there that I like. However, I'm also feeling guilty for leaving my old one. I've told two people there that I was considering trying out some other churches. Also, now I have to decide whether to try out the other churches on

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-5557509972642210202010-04-15T21:59:00.000-05:002010-04-15T21:59:01.044-05:00

I was just rewatching a video I took of my friend Laurel's kid last year. I had totally forgotten these jokes that she and her husband taught her, and I think it's more her husband really. This kid was about 3 at the time I took the video. Though I do not have strong political leanings,  it was really funny to hear these answers come out of her mouth: What do cows say? "Moo" What else do cows

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-15895703657757317092010-04-13T15:41:00.001-05:002011-11-11T12:22:08.043-06:00

If you haven't figured it out already from reading my blog, I play the cello, and I really love playing. If you live in the Dallas or Fort Worth area, I would love to play for your next event. I have over 20 years of experience as a musician. I have played for many weddings, parties, and bands over the years, and it's been really fun. Of all the things I do musically, playing for events is

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-73011953957716651462010-04-13T14:48:00.000-05:002010-04-13T14:48:24.634-05:00

In my dream, I was spending some time with a friend of mine. I knew who this person was, but he did not look anything like what he looks like in real life. His essence was the same as what I knew though. So weird.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-87330979214669865722010-04-09T14:51:00.001-05:002010-04-09T14:57:48.236-05:00

Today at the chiropractor, I got to do some resistance training with bungee cords. I have not done any weight training for the last 2 years. The funny part of this is that my right arm is WAY weaker than my left. I blame the cello. PS: I am right-handed.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-33956589620472827312010-04-07T12:48:00.001-05:002010-04-07T12:50:54.444-05:00

I was just thinking about a comment someone made to me recently. He said, "you're brave to let your church know you have a talent." I don't feel brave, I feel called to use my talents in service. If my talent is something that God has given me, and something that I'm passionate about, then using this gift and serving the church isn't a burden, it's more like something I can't help but do.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-67109678153812210552010-03-04T12:26:00.000-06:002010-03-04T12:26:29.249-06:00

So when I went to audition, the auditioner did not show up. She wrote down the wrong date. Also, my parents happened to be in town last weekend, and I felt bad because I had to practice for about five hours while they were here. I managed to reschedule my audition for last Monday night. I played some Bach, Brahms, and Mozart. You know, the classics. I gotta say, I was thinking that I wasn't going

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-62026066203516405742010-02-25T13:45:00.000-06:002010-02-25T13:45:25.871-06:00

I am freaking out a little... I had been told that there was a group of "hotshots" in an orchestra in Fort Worth. I checked out their website only to find that they had no spots open for cellists. However, I was looking on Craigslist yesterday, and saw that they had put an ad up for auditions. Problem was they were last weekend. Well, I emailed them anyway to find out if they would still let me

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-66325512502687159612010-02-22T16:34:00.003-06:002010-02-22T16:35:08.602-06:00

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-48539539991968404222010-02-21T20:21:00.002-06:002010-02-21T20:25:17.537-06:00

I have been attending the same church for about six months now, and though I like it, I have come to the conclusion that it may not be the best fit for me. It seems so hard to decide that I need to go looking again, but it is important to me to find a place that makes me feel "at home." It has been hard for me to figure out exactly what it is that is causing me to not fully commit to the church

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-41404239199697623502010-02-21T20:12:00.000-06:002010-02-21T20:12:31.716-06:00

I just got back from a service project in Oklahoma. I'm tired, and I really don't want to go back to work tomorrow. I went with a small group from church to a residential school for boys. We were given the task of tearing down the siding of a shed, and then rebuilding it. In that process, we also cleaned out the inside of the shed by pulling everything out, trashing the stuff that needed to be

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-74846238662966172272010-02-19T11:29:00.001-06:002010-02-19T11:29:45.211-06:00

For once, I had a dream that wasn't related to anxiety. I dreamed I was leading worship for elementary aged children, and there were a lot of them. I was playing my guitar and singing a song that is word for word Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. I sang this song at

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-43521259736477489892010-02-16T12:36:00.002-06:002010-02-16T12:43:47.133-06:00

I was at breakfast yesterday when I got a call from my coworker and friend, Laura. I ignored it and called her back a little later. When she answered the phone, this is the conversation we had:Me: Hey Laura, what's up?L, anxiously: Oh good! You're alive!Me: What?L: Well, are you coming in [to work]?Me: The library is open today???L: Well, yeah.Me: What??? It's President's day...L: Well, we're

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-78576202892492068552010-02-11T18:22:00.009-06:002010-02-11T18:36:11.588-06:00

I woke up this morning at about 6am as a result of a text message from the campus alert system. Campus is closed! Today and tomorrow! Although I found out about the closure for tomorrow about an hour ago. It has been snowing since early this morning in Fort Worth, and according to the news, this is the largest snowfall they've had in 30 years. I just went to check out the trail behind my

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-42110659566386701262010-02-09T18:44:00.002-06:002010-02-09T18:47:42.982-06:00

I don't know why, but I'm feeling intense about life in general, but when I try to pinpoint what exactly this is about, I can't name any one particular thing. Things are going well, you see, so I feel like I really shouldn't be feeling this way. I'm just going to say that "intensity" feels a little like anxiety, but the two feelings are different. I don't feel like I'm anxious, just intense. I

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-23850844894361215482010-01-28T12:17:00.004-06:002010-01-28T12:26:59.881-06:00

As of late, I have been jogging weekly with a friend of mine. I have noticed that when we're running together, I'm able to run faster and farther than if I were to run by myself. When we jog, I'm able to go three miles, and sometimes more. But this morning, I got up and went for a jog, but I was so tired that I couldn't even run a quarter of a mile without stopping.There's this story in the Bible

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-87922589184917230732010-01-25T11:02:00.004-06:002010-01-25T11:10:16.445-06:00

I've been loving the sermon series this month at my church. I kind of feel like I'm really going to commit to going there.Last week, what I remember from the sermon is the part about Christian meditation. I think it was about connecting with God. I had just re-read the chapter on meditation from Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster and the pastor talked about that in the sermon!I've been

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-61782779097522167822010-01-21T19:38:00.005-06:002010-03-05T17:10:27.405-06:00

I taught my first cello lesson last Sunday, and then went to watch the Chargers game with some friends at a bar. Well, I took the cello into the bar with me because I generally don't like leaving it in my car. The bar was empty on our side because everyone had been watching the Cowboys game (of course) and had cleared out. No one really cares too much about the Chargers here. I'm not surprised

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-4236382195496438782010-01-15T14:41:00.003-06:002010-01-15T14:43:42.426-06:00

I was working on a project for one of the history profs today, and went browsing our reference collection (I work at the library). I found my new favorite reference source. Are you ready? It is the Encyclopedia of the Future! (published in 1996).I haven't browsed it yet, but I'm sure the future is fascinating. Especially from the context of 1996.Comments? :)

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-20109977615118905782010-01-14T18:34:00.002-06:002010-01-14T18:37:49.501-06:00

I'm working the evening shift tonight at the library. For dinner, I went to my favorite taco place. I could have sworn I heard them playing Milli Vanilli on the radio as I left... "Girl, you know it's true/ooo ooo ooo, I love you..." So weird to be hearing a song that was a hit and yet diminished in it's status as a result of the controversy surrounding the group...

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-64704582344348334832010-01-09T20:29:00.006-06:002010-01-09T20:38:20.496-06:00

I realized I really needed to get some artwork up in my bathroom because it is very neutral. After going to a number of crafty-type stores today, I knew I was going to have to make my own. It always amazes me that my initial idea always morphs into something cool and different. So here's what I made today. The angle is weird cause I didn't want the lights reflecting off of the glass in the frame:

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-2797761436402326662010-01-05T10:57:00.002-06:002010-01-05T11:02:06.866-06:00

I'm at my sister's place in San Diego. I was going to go for a jog this morning in the lovely Cali sunshiny weather, but I ran out of time. I'm waiting for my friend to come pick me up. I think we're going to go for a walk and then have lunch after. I miss my friends here so much. I'm committed to staying in Texas for awhile. I'm not moving back to CA anytime soon. Part of my homesickness is

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-86278835365880722832010-01-03T20:14:00.004-06:002010-01-03T20:33:26.130-06:00

I'm still on vacation, and it's nice. I've been all up and down the California coast. I have lots of stories from this trip already and it isn't over yet. I got to go to Big Bear with the fam. I have an eight year old niece, and she, like most little kids, wants to play all the time. My three sisters offered to play hide and seek with her while the rest of us were hangin' out in the living room.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-32735258851020197642009-12-21T15:23:00.002-06:002009-12-21T15:27:04.747-06:00

I'm getting ready to fly back to see my family in CA, so I'm doing my laundry, packing, cleaning, and what do I do? I wash my ipod. SO BUMMED! I'm so tempted to just go buy a new one, even though it's out of my budget right now. Sadness.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-6043739807641827572009-11-15T16:51:00.005-06:002010-03-05T17:10:06.444-06:00

What a week. I went to the TCU vs. Utah game. This game was really big. Biggest crowd in the stadium, best ranking ever for TCU, they are having a magical season. Today, I played cello at a wedding in the Japanese Gardens in Fort Worth. What a beautiful place! I wish I had taken my camera, as I got in free and we had a little bit of time to explore before the guests arrived. The weather was

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-31771071363046626222009-10-26T12:08:00.003-05:002009-10-26T12:16:07.662-05:00

I played in 2 shows this weekend, and netted about $80 in tips!On the way to the second show on Saturday night, I called my brother because there was a big TCU game on, and I was driving, so I couldn't watch:Adam: Yeah TCU!Me (confused): Hey, um, what? I'm not watching the game...Adam: What? I thought you were watching the game and called me because they just scored!Me: That's awesome! No, I'm

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-82843499786752733922009-10-15T12:24:00.003-05:002009-10-15T12:39:59.740-05:00

I woke up really late. I had a bad sleep night, and did not fall asleep until about 2am. I did not set an alarm and woke up at 9:45am. My two goals that day were to get my phone mailed and to get to the state fair.My phone broke last week. The frame bent and the navigation buttons kept falling out. Thankfully I know myself and my tendency to break things, so I have phone insurance. Called them up

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-85804705470262720492009-10-08T19:21:00.003-05:002010-04-19T14:54:47.355-05:00

One of the most frustrating things about living here in Fort Worth is trying to make some money as a paid musician. I was making decent money on the side playing music and now I'm starting over. I just don't know enough people to make my profit back. Everyone tells me it just takes time. This is true, but I am trying to accelerate the process. However, I think I've hit my wall. I feel like I have

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-71615780967755644662009-09-13T21:50:00.003-05:002009-09-13T21:53:17.562-05:00

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-82108855100952139922009-09-12T14:52:00.001-05:002009-09-12T14:53:59.209-05:00

I was just in a crazy storm last night. I had to drive home in the middle of it. The route I normally take was sort of flooded, and there was rain and lightening all around. I disliked the experience.

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-30885201602068159272009-09-10T18:48:00.004-05:002009-09-10T19:13:04.422-05:00

I have had a great couple of weeks. Creating that collage really unlocked my creativity, and my ideas are starting to flow again. I've been hiking, playing music, and recording. I have also been teaching people about the library at work. So I've been doing a lot of things that I enjoy, and it is amazing how much of a difference that makes in my well-being.I am excited about October, which is my

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-60019895812317311762009-08-29T23:09:00.002-05:002009-08-29T23:10:40.369-05:00

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-14611640230566319062009-08-25T14:24:00.003-05:002009-08-25T14:42:23.362-05:00

My new doctor: So, tell me, what should I know about you?Me: Well, I've lost 50 pounds in the last two years.Doctor: That's quite a chunk!Me: I feel much better.Doctor: Your back is probably better too. So tell me, how did you do it?Me: Diet and exercise.Doctor (with mock disbelief): Nooo, really?! That works? You lost weight by changing your diet and exercising?Me (laughing): Well, yes.Doctor:

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-64493602622163469022009-08-23T22:10:00.005-05:002009-08-23T22:41:30.160-05:00

I just turned the news off, and the last thing I heard was that some kid nearly drowned at a lake. He was saved thankfully. It made me sad though, because it is not that hard to help people in the water if you know how to swim well and learn just a few techniques for how to help them, even if you don't have a flotation device. Then I started thinking about what it means to be a hero. And it's

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-70099831292054483022009-08-19T15:33:00.002-05:002009-08-19T15:40:35.907-05:00

So I've been playing music with this guy here in town, I might even call him my first non-work friend here. We've been working on playing through some Motown covers and meeting on Tuesdays, usually.Well, I show up last night, and he says, "So. I've been thinking and I have an idea. I think we should record one of your songs." I was so excited! So we got down a lullaby I wrote. Still have to do

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-31075554880286278162009-08-18T02:12:00.005-05:002009-08-18T02:25:42.654-05:00

Occasionally, when I can't sleep, I write. This might turn into a song:In the city,I walk,There is both light and shadow.The buildings,Are tall,Casting all these shadows.And I rest,In the shade in the day,Where there are shadows.Like the other lonely, needy, souls,Who find rest where there are shadows.I dunno. Interesting idea, yes? I might have it in me to write another verse for this one.I am

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-18357272467238375072009-08-17T19:20:00.004-05:002009-08-17T19:25:31.337-05:00

So. I just got back from working out in the complex workout room. Toward the end of my workout, I missed a step and nearly fell off the treadmill. I felt like a gymnast as I sort of caught my balance and stuck my landing on the side of the treadmill.Oh, and by the way, there was one other guy working out. Awesome!This is so typical.Almost like the time I tripped down the stairs at Da Kine's, when

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-33442717606366902342009-08-07T16:49:00.003-05:002009-08-07T16:57:38.058-05:00

I am feeling the need to do something creative this weekend, and I've been thinking about different ideas all day. First of all, the walls in my new apartment are rather large and currently so bare and white. I need to figure out what to put on them. I've got this idea about trying to do something mixed media with some bold colors--red, orange, yellow, and green. Perhaps a collage. I was sort of

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7415122.post-679968370628453902009-08-06T11:10:00.000-05:002009-08-06T11:16:38.572-05:00

Who knows? But it is something I've been thinking about lately. I have no idea why, except that I did study the Roman Empire in college, and it failed after 900 years. The U.S. is a relatively young nation, and I wonder if it could last as long as the Roman Empire.This week, my thoughts were echoed by the writers at Slate who decided to ask the same kinds of questions. With that in mind, I offer

Robynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17925798648859695010noreply@blogger.com0