A Whirlwind of Activities

Lately, it seems like there just aren't enough hours in the day for everything I want to accomplish.

Here is a brief rundown of all the projects I'm currently working on:

1. Continue learning photography. I have enjoyed getting to know my camera so much, and we have a special bond now. I used to get frustrated when photos didn't quite turn out right. Now, I am learning what it is that I am doing wrong, and how to fix it.
2. Raise money for the National Brain Tumor Society. Their annual walk is September 12th, and I want to raise money and awareness for this cause. Check out #3 below for one of my ideas related to this!
3. Create recipe books. I have found a very neat website that allows you to create your own, custom recipe books. And they do fundraiser books! In conjunction with the NBTS, I am creating a memorial/fundraiser cookbook. This will be filled with a collection of recipes from myself, Chuck's wife, and members of his family. I will be selling these books, and procedes from each book will go directly to the National Brain Tumor Society. More details later!
4. Work out. I recently started a workout program, and it is intense. Like kicks-your-butt-every-day. But it feels so good! And I feel like it is working. I have been not-so-healthy lately, and I feel as though I am making a positive change in my fitness.
5. Find a new job. This is very important. Which means, it should be #1 on my list. But I have a habit of doing things out of order. I want a new job. One with benefits. And more money. And more room to move up in the company. Still searching though.
6. Move out! Josh and I have been looking at houses lately, and are talking with a mortgage/loan office and real estate agent to start the process. We want to buy, and not rent. So the hunt is on!

So that's it. My busy life right now. I was afraid that after college, my life would be boring. But it is turning out to be anything but.

My Friend Nathan

So I have this friend.

Named Nathan.

Who lives far, far away, in Oklahoma.

We met at the ANTSHE Conference I went to in February of 2008, in Nashville, TN.

And he's pretty much a genius.

Nathan has inspired me to broaden my horizons, embrace new things, accept (and even like) change, and to think outside the "box".

He is employed by a university, and holds a job I am very jealous of. I want his job.

Nathan is my total opposite in many ways, but that is what I like about him.

He challenges me to think, take a stand on topics I believe in, and makes me want to be a better person.

And, he has considered moving to Seattle to work.

This makes me very happy.

Thanks, Nathan.

For being my friend, and for being you.

More info on Portland Brain Tumor Walk!

I have spent all weekend brainstorming ideas to get as much participation and support for this event as possible. I have drafted a letter for local businesses, asking for their support. Also, I am looking into t-shirts for members of the team; I will have our team logo on the front, with names of sponsors on the back. Its a form of free advertising for businesses!

I have also begun contacting more people about walking in the event, and am putting together, with some help, the story of Chuck Barnes and his battle with brain tumors.

Here is the logo so far (which may change):


If you or anyone you know want to help, please contact me at maranda.lamping@gmail.com. Also, check to see if the place you work has a matching gift program - then your money goes twice as far!!

Here is the link to my Team Page!

Thanks for all your support!