Dani Upside Down

Why Hello There!

2010-09-07T21:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Yes, I know. In my last post (in December 2009) I said that I would be better about updating my blog. And that didn't happen. I'm sorry! Let's just say that the first year as a staff auditor is rough. Here is an update of what I have been up to:

January-March 2010

I spent 9 weeks in Spokane, WA for work! I can't complain too much - The Davenport was my home away from home. It was rough, though. You don't know what busy season is going to be like until you live it. I survived, though! What got me through it? One special little girl turned 1, the Olympics kept me company at 1 in the morning, and Angela came to visit Seattle in March, so that was wonderful! A little vino with good friends didn't hurt, either :)

April 2010

One more audit, but the sun was out in Seattle! Made it to a Mariners game with my girlfriends (M's won!) and headed to WSU for the BAP banquet.

May 2010

Esterline Q2, Training...nothing too exciting. I was able to go home and see my family for Memorial Day!

June-July 2010

Spent some time in Los Angeles (DON'T DRIVE THERE!) and Eugene for work. Woohoo! It rained on the 4th of July - what can you expect in Seattle? By this point I was getting pretty depressed. Where was summer?!

August 2010

Time to celebrate! I turned 24 and Amy got hitched!! Oh, and I officially marked my first anniversary at EY. Can't believe it!

Coming Up:

The Big Move! That's right: I'm moving to the Eastside! Redmond, that is. With tempertures in the 60s, I'm thinking about tanning. I need some UV rays. And, in one month I'm a staff 2! Esterline Year End starts the week before Thanksgiving. Wish me luck!

Here are some pics:

Happy Birthday, Louisa!

Pacific Place with Angela

Congratulations Amy and Ian Sharman!

and we're back!

2009-12-20T22:31:00.000-08:00

Hello to all of you on the blogosphere. I know, I know. I've been a terrible blogger. I am going to change that. Starting now! I'll get you all up to speed on what has been going on lately.

September:
- spent some quality time in Spokane working at Itron. They are a really interesting client that manufactures energy meters.
-made The Davenport my home away from home.
- recruiting trip to Pullman for Meet the Frims
- went to the Cougar football game in Seattle
- didn't get swine flu!

October:
- worked on an IPO! Symetra Financial went public- very neat experience.
- learned that unassigned time is actually more exhasting than client work.
- went to my first Sounders game
-experienced the fabulousness that is Kells

November:
- Full Time and Intern recruiting! Have I told you how much I love EY?
- more work on the IPO
- Began work at Esterline Corporate. ESL has about 30 subsidiaries that are manufacturers in the aerospace and defense industry. They close their books on October 30th, which means busy season came early this year.
- Thanksgiving at my aunt and uncle's place in Sammamish.
- Amy and Ian came up for Apple Cup and the Seattle marathon. Amy's a Husky, but I still love her. Ian took 6th in the marathon. He also recapatured the world record for fastest Elvis to run a marathon.

December:
-went to the Pacific Northwest Ballet's production of The Nutcraker
- Just a few holiday parties.. :)

Now we are at the final countdown at ESL It is really neat to see the finished product. Just a few more days and I will have made it through my first year end audit! I am off to Tri-Cities Wednesday evening to celebrate Christmas with my family and to recharge before I head out to Itron for their year end audit. Oh the life of an auditor.

Finally, in case some of you want an updated picture to see what busy season has done to me, take a look:

And yes, it is a proven fact that busy season will make you grow a stache.

New Home!

2009-08-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

birthdays and new jobs

2009-08-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

I am officially a contributing member of society! Local Orientation began at 9 AM on Wednesday (which just happened to be my birthday-more on that later) and then we headed off to San Jose for Firm Wide Orientation. I met a ton of new people and I am super excited about my clients! My feet, however, were not so excited. They were really torn up from wearing heels for the first time in awhile. Peep toe shoes are adorable, but not for my feet. Tomorrow I am flying back to San Jose for a week of assurance training. Yay for GAMx!

As for my b-day, it was fabulous! First, Mike,Kayleen, and Lou took me out to wonderful dinner and made cupcakes for me on Monday. I am so lucky to have them as my future neighbors! Then I was taken to Tutta Bella and Cupcake Royal (best pizza ever!) on Tuesday by my aunt and uncle. Finally, on Wednesday night I went out with the Seattle and SLC boys for dinner was and treated to a fantastic version of the birthday song. I am truly blessed to have all of these wonderful people in my life and can't wait to see what the next year has in store.

EY Seattle- Wells Fargo Building, 35th Floor

Lou Lou helping me celebrate my birthday =)

summer in the city

2009-07-28T17:30:00.001-07:00

Sorry I've been such a bad blogger lately! Here are some updates:

I took Regulation on the 17th of July (I think I did alright..we'll see in a month!) I didn't know what to do with myself when I was done. Such a weird feeling.
I've met up with a number of my friends in the area. I'm not friendless anymore!
Great conversations with friends that are away.
Volleyball at Lake Sammamish
Finally, a Bachelorette season finale i am happy about!
Seattle is more like the Tri-Cities theses days. Only there is no air conditioning. And there is humidity. I don't know how i feel about this. I have spent the whole day in the basement.
I start work in eight days. Yikes!
Went on a date to Golden Gardens.
Enjoyed Golden Gardens much more than Grey Gardens.

Chicken Parmigiana

2009-07-15T14:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I made Bobby Flay's Chicken Parmigiana. It was FANTASTIC! Super easy, quick, and tastes delicious.

Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups all-purpose flour, seasoned with salt and pepper
4 large eggs, beaten with 2 tablespoons water and seasoned with salt and pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 cup vegetable oil or pure olive oil
Tomato Sauce, recipe follows
1 pound fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Fresh basil or parsley leaves, for garnish

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in the flour and tap off excess, then dip in the egg and let excess drip off, then dredge on both sides in the bread crumbs.
Divide the oil between 2 large saute pans and heat over high heat until almost smoking. Add 2 chicken breasts to each pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking sheet and top each breast with some tomato sauce, a few slices of the mozzarella, salt and pepper, and a tablespoon of Parmesan. Bake in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the oven and garnish with basil or parsley leaves.

Tomato Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large Spanish onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, smashed with some kosher salt to make a paste
2 (28-ounce) cans plum tomatoes and their juices, pureed in a blender
1 (16-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 small can tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1 small bunch Italian parsley
1 Cubano chile pepper, chopped
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until soft. Add pureed tomatoes with their juices, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, 1 cup water, bay leaf, parsley, Cubano pepper, and bring to a boil. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Reduce heat and cook until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes.

Hello Seattle!

2009-07-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

I am officially a resident of Seattle! My parents helped me move everything over from the Tri-Cities on Friday and we spent the rest of the weekend with family. I'll be staying with my fabulous aunt and uncle until my apartment is ready in early August. The fact that I LIVE here is still sinking in! I can't wait to see what happens next. What I do know is that I take REG on Friday and I start work on August 5th. The rest is still unwritten.If you are in the area and want to be my friend, let me know!!

one of my favorites

2009-06-30T21:44:00.000-07:00

And I get to see her this weekend!!

Why is Amy Rene one of my favorites? We were cast as sisters in Fiddler on the Roof and have been "sisters" ever since! She has such an incredible heart and is always there when you need her. Her drive and ambition encourage others, including myself, to never settle for something less. From high school and college to big girl jobs; from illness and near death to celebrating the joys of life: we have been through it all. She is truly someone who not only lifts you up, but will debrief the latest Bachelorette episode with you the moment it ends :)

Amy graduated from the University of Washington (I try not to hold that against her) with a degree in political communications. She is an reporter with KTVZ in Bend, OR and will be marrying her Mr. Darcy on August 10, 2010 in Lake Tahoe. I am thrilled that I will get to stand with her and see one of her dreams come true! (and by the way, he really is a mr. darcy...he is from London! )

an afternoon for a movie

2009-06-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

Today I had a date with my aunt and saw the new movie My Sister's Keeper. It is about the Fitzgerald family who genetically prescreens their third child to be a perfect match to save their daughter Kate who has leukemia. After 11 years of being a donor Anna decides that it is time to make her own decisions. She sues her parents for medical emancipation. I've mentioned before how it is one of my favorite books, so I was excited to see the film adaptation. Overall, I really enjoyed it. Cameron Diaz surprised me, the dad was very attractive (I just had to mention that!), and I love little Abigail Breslin. Some would argue that you shouldn't count on me as a movie critic, though, because I enjoyed Australia!! However, the film makers did leave out a few important, and interesting, side stories and COMPLETELY changed the ending! For those of you who haven't read the book, here is your *Spoiler Alert* :)

In the movie Kate ends up losing her battle with leukemia. However, in the book Anna is involved in a car accident on the way to see Kate at the hospital after winning her court case. She is shortly thereafter declared brain dead and her kidneys are given to Kate, saving Kate's life. That isn't just a little change to the story. That is a HUGE change! I guess I can try to forgive Nick Cassavetes. He did give us The Notebook, after all.

Any who, I highly recommend this movie :) On another note, my parents are on me again about developing a hobby. I never found one growing up because I was always at some lesson of some sort. Suggestion?! All I have right now for ideas are sewing or violin. It is kind of sad when people ask what I do "for fun" and I can only come up with really lame answers!

half way there

2009-06-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am officially half way to my CPA! I passed audit! I'll hopefully hear back on finanical in a few days. Regulation is on the 17th- so close to being DONE! Social life, oh how I've missed you so. Other good news: I have an apartment! It is in West Seattle. Words can't describe how blessed I feel right now. Thank you, Lord!

have to love the beam...

sunny days

2009-06-15T19:15:00.000-07:00

The sun is out, and it is beautiful! It is also sunny because I might be neighbors with these two beauties:

The Corrigan girls (Kayleen and Louisa)

I snuck a picture with Lou Lou!

Time to hit the road

2009-06-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to get a change of scenery this weekend! I will be taking a road trip with my sister to Seattle on Friday. Little Miss Lauren takes off for Greece on Monday and I am signing some initial paperwork on an apartment! Now, I do wish I were going to Greece with her, but I hear all they eat is seafood. You all know about my relationship with seafood :) My parents and I have told her she needs to take tons of pictures.

This weekend will be fabulous. I have been missing the water, the crisp air, and friends. Shari and I were talking the other day and came to a sad realization: we have no friends this summer. I can't complain too much for two reasons: 1) I can focus on studying 2) there is the phone. I do miss my friends, though!! AND- as much as I love my family, I need some time away. It is really weird going from living on your own to living with your parents!

Studying for regulation is going well. As well as could be expected. Business law was one of my least favorite classes, and tax is not my best subject. I just have to keep at it. Getting my scores on audit and financial should be a boost. They can't come soon enough! I honestly am getting drained. Does anyone have some energy I could borrow? I'll repay it with interest!!!!

Finally- it occurred to me that I haven't blogged about politics lately. That is probably because I honestly have nothing to say. The Obama Administration doesn't deserve my energy. There are SO many things that upset me. The massive debt (and probable inflation to follow), the push for universal heath care , and the fact that the government now makes cars. Seriously?!

Updates!

2009-06-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It has been way to long- sorry for the lack of posts lately. Here are just a few of the things that have been going on =)

- sat for audit on May 29th
- I passed BEC! should know about FAR and audit in the next three weeks.
- martinis with Amy after the test
- girl time with Calley and Greta
- enjoying the SUN!
- opened my Reg book for the first time today :(
- lots of wonderful time with the family

I am really trying to enjoy the next two months I have before I start work. I will never have this time back. Things are changing. My baby brother is graduating from high school AND community college. I am moving to Seattle. My little sister is off to Europe. My 15 year old sister. It seems just like yesterday that the three of us were fighting over who got to ride in the front seat or eat the last piece of chocolate. Now we are all grown up. Can't wait to see where those two go.

Finally, I am planning a trip to the other side of the mountains in two weeks to hopefully finalize details concerning an apartment. At last I can meet little Louisa Corrigan!

pictures

2009-05-13T14:45:00.001-07:00

Getting ready to go!

Mallory and I

Dr. Sweeney and I

Me with mom and dad!

Graduation- pics to come soon!

2009-05-11T23:43:00.001-07:00

Graduation was fantastic! My parents came up on Friday and had a chance to meet some of my professors and my dad was finally able to met Fr. Steve before we headed to dinner with the Morton family. We spent the rest of the evening just relaxing :) On Saturday I walked at 11:30 and then left Pullman for the last time. It was a bit surreal: balancing the excitement of being done with school forever, sadness of leaving the place I've called home for 5 years, and the knowledge that I still have audit and regulation to take. Pics should be up soon!

The last few days have been interesting. Another round on antibiotics for the eyes, trying to gear up for audit (May 29!) and adjusting to being back home. I send my transcripts in tomorrow, so hopefully I'll have word on BEC and FAR soon! While I wait I will try to forget that my future is dependent upon these exams. OK- I can retake them if I need to, but I really don't want to! Any suggestions on how to destress??

What a weekend...

2009-05-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

Have to say this has been one of the MOST eventful weekends ever. It started on Friday. The girls and I celebrated being DONE with classes. Forever. We had a blast. Saturday was filled with watching season three of Friends, taking a fabulous nap, and going to a house warming party. Today, consequently, was the day that I tried to catch up on studying for my two finals.

You may ask, though, what was the best part of the weekend?? The two hours I spent at the ER tonight to be told I have CONJUCTIVITIS! This is fondly known as pink eye. I honestly don't know how in the world I got it. I didn't wake up with my eyes glued shut, so I wasn't quite sure it was pink eye. By the evening my eyes hurt so much that I didn't go to Mass and went to the ER because minor emergency was closed. My wonderful friend Shari went with me and we were actually able to study Becker while we were in the waiting room! All I could do was laugh. My last week in Pullman I come down with pink eye. I just hope it is gone by Saturday. I just happen to be GRADUATING that day!!!!

(Girls's night- pre pink eye!)

Drop Dead Gorgeous and FAR

2009-04-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night Amy, Kim, Carley, Michelle, and Rachel came over for girls night. We did our nails and toes which watching Drop Dead Gorgeous. Makes me want to move to Mount Rose,Minnesota, dontcha know! Then Calley, Mallory and I traveled to Spokane to take FAR yesterday. Can I just say that it was the HARDEST test I have ever taken? I honestly have no idea how I did. We'll see in June. I hope all of the time I spent studying (8 weeks!) paid off. The best part of Spokane? Being introduced to the 80's pop band POP! ( ya know, Hugh Grant's old band in Music & Lyrics?)

FLIP FLOPS!

2009-04-07T13:53:00.000-07:00

For the first time this year I was able to wear flip flops! It is a beautiful 66 degrees and sunny. And, did anyone else grow up calling them "thongs"? I did. One time in high school gym I was excited about getting to wear them and shouted, "Hey! I got to wear thongs today!" Then someone asked me if I usually wore two pairs of panties.

Are we done yet?

2009-03-25T11:46:00.001-07:00

Four things:

1) 17 years of school are almost done. 6 weeks and change. I pick up my hood tomorrow. All that is left of my college career: two tests and a quiz. I need someone to motivate me to stay motivated! I am excited, but a little apprehensive. School is the only thing I have known.

2) I am really missing my friends who aren't in Pullman. Old church friends, my Jewish sister (well, my Jewish sister in a musical), EY friends. Friends in Cambodia, friends in the Bronx. Friends with a new little baby girl! I love you all and miss you dearly.

3) EY was at the Beta Alpha Psi meeting last night! Jenny, Laura, Erika, and Chuck came over to talk to the undergrads. We went to The Coug afterwards and had so much fun catch up.

4) I am in love with this beauty:

Is it almost spring???

2009-03-06T11:30:00.000-08:00

I am done. Done I say! Enough with the snow! It is NOT ok for it to snow in March! I slipped getting out of my car this morning. Maybe that is why I am so angry with Pullman's bipolar weather. Earlier this week it was beautiful: sunny and 45 degrees. No snow.Now it is ice, snow, and 24 degrees. When the calander flips to March, all snow should go away (well, maybe not in the mountains). Apparently my memo wasn't received.

Ok- rant done =)

I am really looking forward to spring, though. You can spend more time outside, baseball is back, cute spring colors and clothes, and the end of school. All things I love. Anywho, I think it is time for some updates!

Passed my oral exam- I may just graduate after all!
I am LOVING studying for FAR. Financial accounting makes me smile.
Made it to women's group last night- we talked about the Transfiguration and how God is calling us to listen. Not just to Him, but to those around us. Who might you know that needs someone to listen?
Instead of giving something up for Lent, I took something on. I am reading a chapter of the Bible every night. Right now I am in the book of Esther.
Have fallen in love with Jimmy again. I had a huge crush on him when he was on SNL, and now he is back! Check out http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/. Love it! I needed someone to replace Jason as my unrealistic celebrity crush.

Busy Bee

2009-02-15T23:41:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks have been insanely busy, but I now have a few days to decompress before it starts again. It started with Mallory, Shari, Calley and I thinking we could study and take BEC(Business Environment and Concepts) in three weeks. Were we out of our minds?! Becker on top of classes makes for one hectic schedule. We drove up to Spokane on Thursday night and stayed with Calley's family (have to say I LOVE the Ryan family!) and then took the exam Friday morning. It went well- I think! I won't know until May, though. The rest of the weekend has been filled with catching up on reading for my actual classes and revising my oral case file memo. We don't start studying for FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting)until Friday. A week without Becker?! I am going to enjoy this! So- if you want to be my friend, it better be this week!

It is sad to report that this is all my life has consisted of ove the past weeks. I have no life. What is keeping me going is that fact that I might be a CPA at the end of all this. BUT- one thing that is really filling me is that I started singing at church! Singing is just something that makes me happy, so this has been wonderful. Another thing I look forward to are my Bachelor dates with Teresa. For those of you out there who are watching the show: who do you think he is going to pick?! I really like Melissa and Jillian. Don't care for Molly too much.

Lastly- I received my start date! August 5th! So excited. Seattle, here I come!

20 Random Facts

2009-01-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

So, Kayleen asked all of the readers of her blog to post 20 random facts about themselves. As I am always one to oblige, here are 20 random facts about Dani:

I have never eaten a strawberry (my friend Shari is appalled by this fact).
I have a short, back set toe on my right foot named Filmore.
While I say that I am 5', I am really only 4'11 and 3/4". A girl can fudge a 1/4", can't she?!
I was a cheerleader my freshman year of high school. This may not surprise any of you.
I don't eat seafood. Many people have tried to persuade me, but I am a stone wall on this one.
While the normal person has 46 chromosomes, I am cool. I have 45.5.
When I was in sixth grade I dressed up for the Spiceworld premiere. Wait- you didn't?!Try to guess which one I went as...
I LOVE to sing and dance.
When I was in school I was involved in musical theater. Annie, Fiddler on the Roof- we rocked.
I never dated until college. What can I say? I'm waiting for Mr. Darcy!
I have smoked a cigar.
Never been to the east coast. Would love to go.
Growing up I was a Barbie girl.
I have worked at a pharmacy/post office/gift shop, a restaurant, a car rental company, a bookstore, and an accounting firm. I hope the accounting thing sticks.
My sophomore year of high school I was on the dive team.
I can water ski, but I can't do my thing on the slopes.
Favorite drink- jolly rancher. Thanks Andrea!
Give me Mexican food and you have a happy camper.
I am fascinated by the 16th century.
When asked what I wanted to be, at age 5, I replied, " A doctor. That, or a school bus driver."

Now it is your turn. Ready, set, go!

my new bff

2009-01-25T17:50:00.000-08:00

I am here to announce that I have a new bff. His name is Becker. If any of you can't find me I am probably hanging out with him. He'll be with me until August. And then I hope he leaves for good! (I'm talking about the Becker CPA Review...haha!)

Things have been pretty good in Pullman lately. I am excited because I was able to take MIS 600 instead of that American Studies seminar. What is really interesting is that the MIS class is actually about entrepreneurship in the biotech industry! You may be asking why I would get excited about this. The reason is that I actually want to audit the biotech industry! How perfect is that?! Plus, I have had major experience with drugs developed by biotech.We have a mix of science and business people, so it is a pretty interesting class. All of my other classes have been fantastic. They don't look like they will be to hard, and my oral case does not look too difficult. It deals with extinguishment of debt with the issuance of stock as well as the issuance of a convertible debenture with detachable warrants. YAY!

The snow is back in Pullman, which does not really make my happy. I have decided I need to move to Arizona. EY has an office there. I could easily tell Seattle I'm transferring! Then I won't have to deal with driving in the snow! I am off to get ready to brave the cold and the roads for Mass. Until then, I will visualize am here:

(beautiful Vanuatu)

last semester!

2009-01-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

There were days when I didn't think I would make it. It seemed to elusive. Especially when I knew I didn't technically have to still be in school. Why did I decide to go for a CPA, therefore needing the extra year of school? That's right- because I am an overacheiver and love accounting. BUT- it is finally here! The last semester of school- EVER.

Let's just say this was the most drama filled first day of the semester I've experienced. I needed a minimum of two accounting courses and two other 500 level electives to complete my degree. There were three accounting courses offered, so I needed one other 500 level class. Pacific Northwest history didn't sound so bad. That was until this morning. I went to the class at 9 AM to realize I was in way over my head. I didn't have near the time or background required for this class. Plus- it didn't really interest me. If it were a 16th century European history class, maybe. But this? No. I talked to the professor after class and he didn't really think I would do well without an extensive history background (and history writing experience) and tons of extra time. And time is one thing I'll be lacking this semester. So, I went and spent the next hour in Dr. Sue Gill's office strategizing. I think the game plan is to check out a seminar in American studies on Wednesday. I hope it works!

On a lighter note, Jason is back on The Bachelor. Makes me smile =)

My First Year

2009-01-05T23:39:00.000-08:00

The past few days I have found myself looking back on the past year and all of the changes it has brought for me. (A new year always makes me do this!) While there were a number of them , none matches my decision to come back to the Catholic church and receive the sacraments of initiation. I am amazed that it has been a year since by decision to become Catholic.

For all my life I have seen God's hand working in this world. My mom had be baptized in the church and raised me to believe in the creed. God had an interesting path for me, however. This would include me being raised in the Lutheran church from the time I was 5. I became very active in youth group and confirmation classes and even served on a regional youth board. The youth group had a huge impact on my faith development and there are a number of people who have left permanent foot prints on my heart. There is no doubt that God had a reason for this journey. My mom eventually went back to the Catholic church and encouraged me to think about joining her. Five years ago I vowed NEVER to convert. God must have had a great laugh at that, because He knew that in time that would change!

After a few years in college I started to question WHY I was Lutheran. There was never a question as to whether I believed in God, but why was I worshiping Him the way I was? Was I Lutheran because my dad simply wouldn't convert to Catholicism when I was a child? I felt like I needed to take ownership of my faith in a strange way. After reading about Catholicism and talking with a priest, I quickly realized that the way I viewed God was very Catholic. I knew what I needed to do, and last Christmas I told my family. I returned to Pullman and started RCIA classes and received my first communion and was confirmed on Easter Vigil.

The whole experience has been life changing. I feel closer to Him than ever before. Experiencing Him through the sacraments has been pretty awesome. Seeing how He is working through others and in the world is even better. I am constantly amazed at His faithfulness. He has given me all that I have, and has given me all that I need. There were times when I questioned why things were happening the way there were. For instance, was WSU the place for me?After I had questioned I would just say, "Father, I really hope this is all going to work out." Now I look back and see that everything has happened perfectly according to His plan. I would not want to be anywhere but where I am today. I have been blessed with my dream job at Ernst & Young, I will graduate in May, and I have doctors who have been able to help me. Not only that, but I have a loving family and amazing friends. It is His faithfulness and love that sustain me.

Really, though, I am just an unworthy servant who has been blessed with much more that I could ever imagine. Everyday I am constantly trying to serve Him to the best of my abilities, and I am humbled when I fail. With the Spirit as my strength I keep trying, though. Because to experience the grace of God is...fabulous =)

Hello 2009!

2009-01-02T12:19:00.000-08:00

Hello all! Sorry it has been awhile since my last post. I've been so busy with Christmas and New Years, but now I have time!

Christmas was wonderful this year. My aunt and uncle came in from Seattle to spend it with us, which is always special. We had dinner Christmas Eve, went to Midnight Mass, and then followed up with opening presents the next morning and a big Christmas dinner. One of our traditions is that my mom always gets up really early to make cinnimon rolls Christmas morning. I can't tell you how nice it is to wake up Christmas morning and smell fresh cinnimon rolls! I am also lucky because both sets of my grandparents are here, so we were able to spend the day will all of them as well. Midnight Mass always feels special because everyone is dressed up and you really feel the true meaning of Christmas. Also, it is the only time that we have the whole family together at Mass. I just love that time together.

The day after Christmas we all took part in another tradition: shopping! While I was limited to window shopping I was able to help my mom, sister, and aunt find some great deals! We all then went to see The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. It was fantastic! Brad Pitt was great, and I have always loved Cate Blanchett. The next few days for me were filled with catching up with my friend Kristina, spending time with family, and watching Sex and the City. You would be amazed: I finished the whole series! On New Years Eve I first went with my parents to our friend Darla's house. We've known Darla and her family for ages and she served as my confirmation sponsor. I visited with them for a little while and then went to my friend Kristina's sister's place to ring in the New Year. The eight of us drank Cosmos and watched Project Runway until it was time for the ball to drop. It was the perfect New Years.

2009 is going to bring a lot of changes for me. I will graduate in May, move to Seattle, take the CPA exam, and start work full time at Ernst & Young. I pray that God will guide me and give me strength as I move on to the next chapter of my life. I also pray that 2009 will be a wonderful year for all of you as well!

Holiday!

2008-12-20T13:28:00.000-08:00

Well, it is here! Christmas break. It has never been so needed. Weirdest thing: there is snow in the Tri-Cities. We rarely get snow. I am just glad that it is nowhere near the levels that Pullman experienced.

Here is an update on what has been going on:

- All my presentations went well during Dead Week. Go Fab Five!
- Dinner Thursday of Dead Week with Women's Group
- I came down with an itty bitty cold. It wasn't too bad, though. I'm feeling better =)
- Fab Five wine party on Sunday before finals. We are going to miss you , Marin!
- NO FINALS! (Well, I just had to turn in my take home audit final on Monday and my ethics memo for Sue's class on Wednesday, but those weren't too bad)

I am going to relax over break because I know that my final semester at WSU will be busy. I am taking advanced tax, a seminar on cost accounting, accounting theory, and PNW history. Blerg. I am hoping to get a head start by getting my Becker materials and my Master's oral case over break. We'll see how much I get done. Wish me luck!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

dance parties and gingerbread houses

2008-12-08T11:10:00.000-08:00

I had such a great weekend! Friday was the accounting pub crawl. Now, I'm not one to go crazy, but I wanted to hang out with all of the MAcc kiddos. Therefore, I drove the Fab Five! We joined up with the group at Denny's and then went to Zeppoz, My Office, and Ranch Viejo. Then the Fab Five finished the night at Mallory's with a dance party to B. Spears! (Her new album is amazing!) After the dance party Mallory, Calley, and Marin headed to Mike's, while Shari and I called it a night. It was amazing just to let loose and have fun with the girls.

The Fab Five!

On Saturday a group of us from St. Tommy's went to Bishop Place to visit with some of the residents. We made gingerbread houses and decorated Christmas cookies with them! It was really neat to see God working throughout the project. I hope that I am able to go visit more often next semester.

17 days till Christmas!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2008-12-03T10:36:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the Christmas season. There is something about it that makes me smile. Here is my Top 10 List of why I LOVE Christmas and the season of Advent.

Dani's Christmas Top 10 List

10. School's out ( and nothing to work on!)
9. Christmas sweaters!(OK- not the ugly ones, but pretty,sparkly ones!)
8. The Nutcracker ( yeah, I was in it. I was the best mouse you've ever seen)
7. Holiday Specials (Rudolph, Frosty, the Grinch, etc.)
6. Christmas movies (Home Alone anyone?)
5. Christmas cookies (yay for sugar cookies!)
4. Christmas music ( I only allow myself to listen to it after Thanksgiving)
3. All of the smells (weird, but I love the smell of pine, cranberry, and sugar cookies)
2. Dinner with family

And......(drum roll please)

1. The birth of Christ- pretty cool that God would send His only Son down to earth to save us, huh?

Taco Bell at 12:30 AM

2008-11-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

I have come to this conclusion: there is nothing more delicious than Taco Bell at obscene hours of the night. It just hits the spot! When forced to pick a fast food restaurant I usually pick something like Wendy's, Arby's, or Cougar Country- something that at least appears more fresh. But, when it is 12:30 at night and you NEED food, Taco Bell is the ticket.Who might you ask kept me out that late? MY MOM! We went to Mass at The Parish of the Holy Spirit and then went to our friends house. We visited for hours while they enjoyed some vino. I, however, was unable to participate due to the fact that I was serving as DD. Let me tell you- the day that you DD for your mom and make a Taco Bell run with her at 12:30 is one to remember.

Today I had plans to go visit my Confirmation sponsor and her family (9 adorable kids!) at 9 this morning. Now, 9 doesn't seem so early, but when you don't get to bed until 2 it is a little early. I brought Spudnuts over, had a wonderful visit, and then returned home for a nap. My original thought was to take a quick little cat nap. 30 minutes, 45 tops. How long was my nap? Two and a half hours! After I nap that long I can never seem to wake back up. I always feel a little off. So, I've had a pretty unproductive day. Isn't that what Thanksgiving break is all about? I am hoping that tomorrow is more productive (I am sure that my 532 group would like that!). No bets, though!

In other news, I believe that I am becoming quite the cake baker. I baked one for Kayleen's baby shower last weekend and for my grandma's 79th birthday this Saturday. Kayleen's was funfetti with vanilla frosting and pink writing while my grandma's was devil's food with chocolate frosting and purple sprinkles. The greatest part? I made my own chocolate frosting!! I am working my way up to a home made cake. I think I am close. Next up on the baking front: toffee bars!

Days Go By

2008-11-18T22:40:00.000-08:00

I have to say that I am starting to feel the daily grind of being a grad student. Shari, Marin, Calley, and I have been working on this in depth assignment for our Accounting 532 class. We were given the tasks of analysing a company's financial statement and business strategy and forecasting their future performance. This entails strategy, accounting, and financial analysis, forecasting, valuation, and credit rating review.Kind of overwheming.Our company is Deckers, who owns Teva and Ugg Australia. They actually are a pretty cool company. What is frustrating is that we finished what were were supposed to only to find out that more requirements were added. AND: this stuff is not on the CPA exam! Also, the rest of my classes all have final projects due the same week. Ugh. It is a good thing that I love my other three classes! The only thing that is keeping me motivated is that Thanksgiving break is two days away for me. (sorry for the rant!)

Friday night after dinner we all gathered at Mike and Kayleen's and watched Little Shop of Horrors! It is the most random movie I have ever seen! It stars Rick Moranis and features a cameo from Steve Martin. Crazy plant from outer space, dorky florist, evil dentist: what more could you ask for! Then on Saturday we held a baby shower for Kayleen. It was a great weekend and the first part of this week has been really productive.

Have you ever found yourself at a place in your life when you are waiting for something exciting to happen? I have to admit that I am at one of those places right now. For the past few months it has seemed like I am just going through the motions. Every week is the same. I keep telling myself that I need to appreciate this time in my life, but that is easier said than done. God knows what He is doing. Sometimes I just wish I knew where this is all leading...

I DID IT!

2008-11-10T22:17:00.000-08:00

That's right: I finally learned how to knit! This weekend Andie helped me patiently and I was able to get past the first row =) We'll see if I have something resembling a scarf in the next few days. On top of learning how to knit I watched LOTR: Two Towers without falling asleep, had my first Washington Apple, and went to an orphan party! Yeah, I know-I party like a rock star.

November is here!

2008-11-06T21:50:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe that it is already November! It just seems like yesterday that I arrived in Pullman to start my year of grad school. I would have to say that it hasn't been what I expected, but that is ok. I am learning and can't wait to put it to use.

The past few weeks have been pretty busy. I have four big research projects that I am working on right now and that has pretty much consumed my life. While some are interesting, others are not! And by that I mean my financial analysis project.The exciting thing is that we now officially have our schedule for Becker. We'll start studying in January to take the business section in February! Then we'll have two weeks off before we start studying for the financial section. I have to say that I think the regulation section will be my enemy. It is weird: there are moments when I am totally overwhelmed by the idea of taking the CPA exam, and then moments when it doesn't seem so daunting. I don't know if I am worried/stressed enough about it! I just pray that I'll be able to study sufficiently and pass all four sections the first time. The best strategy is to just tell myself that there is no other option: I will pass the first time.

So, last Friday was Halloween! I, of course, dressed up at Gov. Sarah Palin. I even wore my Barbie heels! (Cool fact- Sarah Palin was baptized at the same church I was!) We had a great time at dinner and then went to Pat, David, and Erik's to help celebrate Ines' birthday. On Saturday I worked on homework with Anthony and Angela before going to Kayleen's knitting party. While the party was fun and it was great to hang out with all the girls I did not pick up knitting right away:( I spent FOUR hours just trying to get past the first row. Can anyone provide me with a private knitting lesson?! I'll do your taxes this spring! Hopefully I can get some more practice in this weekend while I am an orphan. (My dad figures he's been to enough Dad's Weekends!)

As you all can guess, I am not too thrilled about the election results. I won't subject you to a rant, however. I am trying to move on in the grief process. I think I am at the bargaining stage now! And to those McCain staffers: I highly doubt that Sarah Palin thought Africa was a country.

Pumpkins and Disney Movies

2008-10-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

There comes a time when every 22 year old woman needs to go back to her childhood. For me, that was this weekend! I am a wimp when it comes to cold weather (no Haunted Palouse), so I went to my friend Teresa's house and carved a pumpkin! I named him Leonard. He is quite scary, if I do say so myself, and is guarding my door. The thing I forgot, however, is how messy it is to carve a pumpkin. Yes- I am a girl. :) I was so grossed out that I couldn't seperate the seeds from all of the goo. While we carved pumpkins we watched Hocus Pocus. Remember that wonderful movie from 1993? It stars a Bette Midler and freaky SJP.

After being totally unproductive Saturday morning I went to hang out with Cherise. We then proceeded to torment her understanding boyfriend Matt with not one but TWO Disney movies! We watched The Little Mermaid and Sleeping Beauty. It was splendid. I like to pretend I am a Disney princess, and no one can stop me :) I have to say, though, that Matt is crazy wise. He puts up with me like a little-older sister (I am older, but shorter!). I can tell him everything that am worried about concerning a certain subject and he can ALWAYS tells me what will happen.

This week I will be enjoying a FANTASTIC half-gallon of cookie dough ice-cream. Feel free to ask me why. On top of that, it is getting cold at night in Pullman. Really cold. I just have to keep telling myself that this is the last winter here.

Coming Up This Weekend:
- Dress up dinner at St. Tommy's on Halloween
- Kayleen's Knitting Party ( I don't know how to knit, but I will learn. My family has always said I need a hobby, and what better hobby than knitting!)

Remember the Communion of Saints this coming weekend!

Another Week

2008-10-22T22:35:00.000-07:00

What a difference a week makes! I am feeling so much better this week. The Remicade worked like a charm! I felt good enough to go down to the TC with Cherise and help my sister get ready for her first homecoming dance! She wore a beautiful emerald green dress that went to her knees and we put her hair into a messy bun. It was amazing to be apart of that moment for my sister. She even said thank you! For those of you who know my sister you know that this is quite unusual. Cherise and I then spent the evening catching up on homework and watching Baby Momma. I have a confession to make: even though I totally disagree with her politics, I have an itty bitty girl crush on Tina Fey. The first step is to admit is, isn't it?!

There isn't much to report as far as classes go. This is probably a good thing, though! I have now decided that I need to focus on my body as much as I have been focusing on my mind. I bought an exercise ball at Target before I left the TC so I can get into a better exercise habit. Today was lower body and tomorrow is arms! Growing up I was always involved in some sort of activity after school that kept me in shape. I tried everything: ballet, softball, gymnastics, jazz, and cheerleading. Since high school I haven't been as dedicated to exercise, but I am going to change that! I know that when I start work I am going to need a way to work off the stress of busy season. Maybe I'll just bring my exercise ball to work. It would be perfect for the audit room!

Speaking of accounting, I will start taking the CPA exam in six months. How scary is that?! I'm not to worried- yet! I am sure the stress will pile on as the date gets closer. I just can't wait to get to Seattle and start working. The further I get into my Master's the more I realize how much I LOVE accounting. Weird, huh? I miss all of my EY kiddos- therefore, I am coming to visit over Halloween weekend! Shari and I will be making the trip over the mountains, so get ready everyone!

This weekend should be a great one. Haunted Palouse is Friday. Everyone from St. Tommy's might even dress up. I think the theme may be celebrities if we can get Mike and Pat to dress up as the Olsen twins. The sad thing is that Andrea won't be there:( I did get to talk to her tonight and she is having a great time working as a volunteer in the Bronx. I only wish I was in a financial position to go and visit her! While Andrea won't be there, guess who might be?!! Gordon!!! Ok- just a little excited. He reads this, though, so I have to try and act cool. Am I doing a good job?

Not feeling so well...

2008-10-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Well- my ulcerative colitis decided it would make itself known this past week. Yay! It is a severe form of IBS that I was diagnosed with in high school. I basically had ulcers in my colon. Yuck. No gross details, but you can imagine what this causes. I have been on an IV medication and an immune suppressant (my immune system is what causes the inflammation which then forms the ulcers) that has gotten rid of the ulcers, but if I'm not careful I'll still feel the inflammation. My doctor down in the Tri-Cities has been trying to get me off of the immune suppressant for three years. I understand why he wants me to, but every time I try I get sick. This summer right before the internship my doctor told me that we should try going off the immune suppressant and try the highest dose possible of the IV medication. I said why not, and it worked for seven weeks the first session (I get IVs every eight weeks) but only six weeks this time. So, I haven't been feeling so hot the past ten days, but I get my IV on Friday!! I also said enough is enough and went back on the immune suppressant. It will take awhile to build back up,though. As long as we check blood work regularly I should be ok being back on it. The worst part about this is that I wasn't able to go on the Search retreat :( I was really looking forward to it, but I had to do what was best.

It's been hard, but I am trying to find God in this situation. I feel that it is really humbling me. I've had long periods of time where I have been completely fine and don't even think about this disease. Right when I get to that point God says, "Oh wait! I'm not going to let you forget." I have made great strides- when I was first diagnosed and was REALLY sick I didn't know if I would be able to go away to college. Now I am in grad school! I hope that God can use me to help those with chronic illnesses to see that He is there and that He is the one that helps us get through it. We can never lose faith that there will be better times, and can never lose faith that there will be a cure. I don't want pity, but I decided to talk about this since it is what I am dealing with right now. I've got my heating pad, Powerade, and soup- a girls best friends!

5 Books That Have Changed My Life

2008-10-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Given the fact that I am an accountant, and therefore NOT creative, I have decided to try searching for blog prompts! I am sure all of you will be happy that you won't always be bored by reading the details of my mundane life in every post. But- don't think you get off that easy. I will still give you updates =)

Today's prompt is "5 books that changed your life are..."

The Bible- the Living Word of God, how can you get more lift changing than that?

Cry, The Beloved Country- a wonderful story about an Anglican priest in South Africa and his stuggles to save his son.

Three Cups of Tea- the true story of a man working for peace in Pakistan by building schools for young girls.

Wuthering Heights- Emily Bronte's masterpiece. Love and mystery at its greatest.

My Sister's Keeper- A young girl born to save her sister- can she save her one last time?

These books have all influenced the way I think about God and love. Love comes in many forms, and God shows us His love in many forms. Most of all, His love is why I don't lose faith in humanity. A number of these books have shown me that people are capable of making great strides in the world. It reminds me of a saying that goes, "To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world." Also, things are not always what they seem on the outside. People are complicated, and the world is complicated. We can only try to grasp ounces of understanding. Finally, I have to say that Wuthering Heights is the only novel from the Gothic genre that didn't depress me! What a wonderful, complicated love story.

Lazy Sunday

2008-10-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Yes- I know I am terrible about posting regularly. I will try to fix this situation, starting now :)

This past week was interesting. First, a bunch of us were pretty frustrated in our Master's classes this week because our professor gave us a mid-term project that doesn't make ANY sense. Our case is on Boston Chicken and was written for strategy analysis. However, we are supposed to do accounting, financial, ratio and forecast analysis along with strategy. What really made us mad was the proposed 24 month cash flow part, but we don't have to do that anymore. Yes! I have to say that I love my team. It is great to have a team where everyone knows what they are doing and they all pull their weight.

On Thursday was Women's Group and the VP debate. Our discussion at WG was about a parable in Matthew where a vineyard owner hires workers to produce fruit in the vineyard. He sends servants to check in on them (they hadn't been producing fruit), and the workers kill all of the servants. However, the owner still has faith and keeps sending servants. Finally, he sends his only son. Jesus then asks the Jewish leaders what they think the owner will do. Jesus tells them that the owner will remove the old workers and find ones that do produce good fruit.Do you see where this is going?? God is the owner, we are the workers, the servants are the prophets of the Old Testament and the son is Jesus. I am continually amazed at what a wonderful teacher Jesus was. We all need to be workers in the vineyard and work produce good fruit. The fantastic thing is, though, that God loves us unconditionally and will never lose faith.

My thoughts on the VP debate: Sarah Palin did better than I thought she would. I think she did answer the questions before going onto another topic. I really agree with her position that government needs to get out of the way. Government is too big. I did get the feeling that Biden was stumping...he said before that he doesn't think Barak Obama is qualified to be president. Now he is running with him?! Joe Biden doesn't make me as upset as Obama does.Oh well. All I can hope for is that people truly search their hearts and look at the issues. And if Barak Obama wins I hope Congress will keep him in check. His ideas are SO wrong for this country. Universal heath care, abortion, millions of social programs?!I just can't think about it. I am for everyone having healthcare and taking care of the poor, but the private sector is more efficient at doing that.The worst part about it all is that people think he is the new messiah. No politician is going to change the world so drastically. And, he IS NOT the messiah. We had a gentleman from the Spokane Dioceses come and speak at Friday Night Dinner about faithful citizenship. I really enjoyed his talk and it helped us look at the election and the issues from a Catholic perspective. Now, there is no way that they would tell us how to vote, but he did show us how to make our decisions with our faith in mind.

Finally, I had some girl time this weekend! I watched Sex and the City with Cherise Friday night and then Greta came down from Spokane yesterday and we went to dinner, did our nails, and watched a movie called I'm with Lucy. It was adorable! Highly recommend it.

That's all for now!

Some thoughts on the week

2008-09-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some random thoughts I have had this week:

Being the person that I am (that being an accounting nerd) I am going to talk about the economy. Honestly, it scares me to think that we are going to be stuck with a $700 BILLION bill for inept corporate executives. Legislatures now want to see more regulation. Don't they understand that government is why we are in this mess in the first place?! Capitalism isn't the problem- corporatism is the issue. And how did we allow these companies get so big? Funny thing is, if you look at the federal government's financial statements, not knowing that it was the government, the normal person would not invest. It is terrible! Regulation is not the answer. Oversight- yes. Regulation- no. We are already in tons of debt and this will push us over the edge. The thing about the market is that if a terrible CEO makes bad decisions, they lose money. The market works. Bailing them out will just increase moral hazard. UGH!

This week has been pretty standard. Classes have been pretty uneventful-which is a good thing I guess! Grad school is a really different experience. It is really unstructured. We don't really have exams. Our classes are really discussion based, which brings our learning to a different level. The internship definitely helped prepare me for the Masters program. I will be thrilled when school is over, though! It will be wonderful to be working and doing what I love. One thing is for sure: I am so glad that this will be my LAST Pullman winter! I am incredibly blessed to have such a wonderful group of friends: Cherise, Shari, all the St. Tommy's girls, and the rest of the MAcc program kiddos. There are some very important people that I miss more every day, though!

What I am looking forward to over the next couple of months:
- Search Retreat (Oct. 10-12)
- Fall TV show premieres! ( yeah, I know- I'm a dork)
-Greta's visit
- Getting to see who our new hires are!
-Halloween!
-The election being OVER
-Getting to see Gordon

Finally- I need ideas for what to be for Halloween. Suggestions?

"The last shall be first and the first shall be last..."

2008-09-18T23:41:00.000-07:00

I have to say that this week has been pretty amazing! It started out with a pretty uneventful Monday (except for my mad dash to the post office to get Gordon's cookies in the mail before 5) and really ramped up Tuesday. I was on campus for class until 5:30 and then went back up around 8 for the EY pre-interview social! It is so different being on the other side of interviews this year. It was great getting to know the recruits better and helping them learn what Ernst & Young is all about. For instance, did you know that we were named the NUMBER ONE place to start your career according to Business Week?! I think it was a good sign that almost everyone interviewing stayed late at the social. Wednesday was full of interviews on campus. Shari and I helped out the rest of the team by greeting all of the students interviewing and helping them relax before the big moment. It was great to hang out with Debbie (our awesome recruiter!) all day and show her first hand how fabulous Cougars are! However, I now miss the office even more:(

Tonight was Women's Group, which was really fulfilling. We focus on the upcoming Sunday's Gospel. This week it was Matthew 20:1-16. I am continually amazed at what a great teacher Jesus was/is. The passage talks about a man who owned a vineyard and the workers he hired. He hired a number of men in the morning and then went on to seek out more workers throughout the day. He ends up hiring the last bunch an hour before the day ended. When the work is finished he pays the newest workers a full day's wages. The workers who had been there all day then expected to be paid more, yet they were disapointed when they were also paid a single day's wage. The manager tells them to not be envious. He had promised them a full day's pay and he had been fair. You can really tie it back to the world today. We must understand that it doesn't matter when someone became Christian. Those who were baptized as infants and have known God their whole life are no different than those who accept Him during their final moments. It is so easy to feel entitled to more, or to judge those around us. Only God can judge and His love for us is unconditional. How amazing is that?

Getting a little political...

2008-09-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

UHG! I have to say, I am disgusted by this election cycle. While it is right to really investigate what our candidates stand for, I believe that this should be applied to all candidates. People are tearing apart Sarah Palin for things that many male politicians have been guilty of. Where is the vetting of Barack Obama (who would bankrupt this nation more that it is already)?Now, I did laugh a lot at Tina Fey's impersonation, but I do like Sarah Palin. Do I think she is the greatest female politician ever? No. Do I think she would ruin our country? Not necessarily. Here are just a few fact checks:

Banning books- she just asked the librarian what they would do if someone asked them to ban a book.
Troopergate- she was asked be the state when she took office if there were any threats to her family. She answered yes. After that she and her husband did look into the status of Wooten's employment, but she never flat out asked him to be fired.
Abortion- while she is pro-life she does believe that it should be put to the states. Her record show that she has never pushed legislation dealing with morals.
Bridge to Nowhere- If the facts change you should be able to change your position without being called a liar when discussing your reform credentials.

I will admit that secrecy within her administration and the earmarks she did take as governor make me want to know more, but can't we do that in a CIVILIZED way? Why is the media nailing her to a cross?I truly believe that the average person is pretty close to center when they really look at the issues.This election has just made people feel like they need to choose a side and fight. We need to focus on what we all have in common- the fact that we want to do what is best for America. I don't know a lot of people who think access to heath care for all is a bad idea- we just differ on our approach to it. I, for one, believe that a free market is the best situation. But I do care about people. We all care about people and want to see our country prosper. I think the biggest issue is that we need to promote a culture of life. In all aspects.

So, there you go. I am so depressed with the way people are behaving in this election that I don't want to listen to it anymore. I will be voting for McCain (because I believe in conservative economic policies and that abortion needs to be defined as what it really is), but I am tired of the mud slinging. Just smile and be happy that we are able to live in a democracy.

Last First Day of School!

2008-08-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

Because WSU is on a semester schedule, and I am just crazy enough to go for a Master's, I started my last year of school EVER today! It didn't really hit me until I woke up this morning. It is a weird feeling, I must say. For the past 17 years around this time I have gone through the ritual of buying school supplies, picking out the perfect outfit and making sure your hair is just right. It was almost sad to think that I will never experience that again. Ok, maybe not too sad, but nostalgic none the less! :)

My day started with going to my office hours at 10 A.M. I really tried to get out of that one because my students don't even know when my office hours are yet, but I am always the good one, so I went anyways. Then I met Cherise and Matt for lunch at the newly renovated Compton Union Building on campus. It is beautiful! We had lunch at Carlita's Mexican Grille, one of the new eateries in the CUB. I have to say, I wasn't that impressed :( Those of you who know me well know that I am a total Mexican food snob...what can I say, I'm from Tri-Cities!

After lunch I had sometime to kill before my auditing seminar. Now, I know that doesn't sound like much fun to you, but I am so excited about this class! We are studying fraud and current audit cases! I really think I am going to like grad school. The structure is much more discussion based. The only thing is you have to do the reading or you will be hurting the next class session. Can I just say that I officially feel old? 22 technically isn't THAT old, but when I am on campus now I feel ancient! I am a grad student. That just seems so old! I walk around the halls of Todd and see the new crop of freshmen and can't believe how young they are. They were born in 1990! Any who, you may all start calling me an old hag...

Finally, I am going back to Seattle this weekend! I miss the city so much and I am ready to escape for a weekend. WSU is playing Oklahoma State at Quest Field, so it should be fun- even if we are demolished. I am also super excited because there is someone in particular taking a trip up to Seattle as well that weekend..!

Fight,fight, fight for Washington State!
Win the victory.
Win the day for Crimson and Gray!
Best in the West, we know you'll all do your best,
So, on, on , on , on! Fight till the end!
Honor and glory you must win!
So, fight, fight, fight for Washington State and victory!

Winding Down

2008-08-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am continually amazed at how fast time goes by. 7 weeks ago I was just starting my internship. I am now approaching my last day! Tomorrow is my last day on the Amazon audit team and then Friday we are all going to Anacortas. I am excited because we will be going sea kayaking! The best part, though, is that I'll be back at EY next September to start full time!! That's right- I have a job! That fact still hasn't sunk in. I just feel so lucky to have a job that I love and can't wait to go to everyday. This summer has just continually gotten better and better:)

Last week all of the EY interns spent two days working on how to make our EY office more eco friendly. Some of you may know that last Tuesday was my birthday, and a group of the interns helped me celebrate! Kendra, Matt, Candace, Jared, Sarah, Karin, Liz, and Henry met me for dinner at The Ram and then we played Truth or Dare Jenga at Kendra's. It is really weird to be 22, I must say.Then we all headed to Orlando, FL on Wednesday to meet with 1700 other interns from across the globe. We spent our time learning about key accounting issues today and improving our team building skills. It was a great opportunity to see what was happening in the firm all over the country and around the world. The best part was getting to meet the CEO, Jim Turley. Or, as we interns like to call him- JDAWG! His vision for the firm is inspiring.

So far this week has been pretty low key, which has been great. I have been watching the Olympics almost religiously! Gymnastics and swimming are probably my favorite events to watch. Shawn Johnson and Michael Phelps are incredible athletes. This evening was fun, though, as Candace and I met for dinner at Taquria Tequila- my favorite Mexican restaurant in Seattle. It was great to have some time for girl talk!

Finally, I start school in 12 days-yikes! I am excited that I am a grad student now, but I don't think it can go fast enough. One more Pullman winter and I am out of there.

Till next time...

My Favorite Things

2008-07-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

So, I thought I would take the time to list off some of my favorite things. By reading these you may get to know me a little better, or just confirm your suspicions.

Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi
the colors pink, green, and orange
good Music
peanut butter and chocolate
finishing a great book
Grey's Anatomy
playing around with different make-up looks
when you meet someone you connect with and can talk for hours, about anything
the warm and fuzzy feeling that makes it impossible stop smiling:)
dancing
singing at the top of my lungs in the car
audit/accounting
politics
when the sun comes out after a cloudy day
enjoying a baseball game at the park
ice-cream
retail/cleaning therapy
the Church
being comfortable to be who you are
LOVE

4th of July and such

2008-07-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

I just have to say that I LOVE the 4th of July! Those of you who know me know that I am pretty proud to be from this great country. Not in an ethnocentric way, but I do think America is pretty cool.

Training wasn't' too bad. Although, it was basically a semester of audit in four days! I am a nerd, though, and I loved getting to practice auditing cash and trades receivable! I am now skilled at cross-referencing my work papers! You can totally tell that I am an accounting nerd because I get so excited to learn about EY's Global Audit Methodology!After a week of training I headed up to Mount Vernon to one of my dearest friends, Cherise. We barbaqued, hiked around deception pass, and did a little shopping! Deception Pass is one of the most beautiful areas I've ever seen. The beauty of Washington State continually astounds me. What other state has desert, wheat fields, mountains, beaches, rain forest, and woods? I now just have a few places left on my to do list in WA- San Juan Islands and the Olympic Peninsula!

Tonight is Monday,and that means The Bachelorette! It's the finale, and I am so excited to see who DeAnna picks! I have to say, I am pretty partial to Jason. And by pretty partial, I mean I love him. If she doesn't pick him I am going to look him up. He is from Kirkland! :)

Finally, to end this blog post, I am going to plug John McCain. Check out his speech on energy! I am pretty excited about his chances in the hostile environment toward Republicans.

God Bless!

Training

2008-06-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

So, I have successfully begun my EY internship. On Wednesday I joined 33 other interns at the Seattle office for orientation! We were given our computers and 10 Keys, as well as business cards. At 5 we took off for Santa Clara, CA were we joined the rest of the interns from the PNW for Firm Wide Orientation. It basically was a rally for EY! Now, being a former cheerleader, I loved this! BUT- the greatest part of the trip was getting to meet Mike Holmgren at the San Jose airport! I just have to say I have never been more thankful for being from Seattle-San Jose is like an 80's time warp. Seriously.

There were a ton of presentations at the orientation. The biggest part was about how to use our computers. Kinda boring, but Same Time (EY intranet instant message) is awesome! All of the Seattle interns got along, which is great. Ask any of us if we are beamin! We flew back on Friday evening after a long few days. Then on Saturday seven of us got together for lunch at Agua Verde to go kayaking! We kayaked all the way past Gasworks in Lake Union. It was the perfect day for kayaking. The sun was actually out in Seattle, and it was 85 degrees. When does that ever happen?

Today I was given a tour of UW campus by my intern friend Kendra. I must say it was pretty painful, being a Coug and all! She had been giving me a hard time all week about being a Coug, so I thought I should see this "great" school called UW. I'll admit, UW is beautiful. There is this huge fountain and you can see Mt. Rainer from campus. We ended up walking around for about 4 hours. It was great to get out in the sun again. Seriously, this weather is more like Tri-Cities than Seattle! Finally, Kristina and I went to Mass at Blessed Sacrament in the U District.

Well, I better get going, but I start actual training tomorrow! Wish me luck!

Let's give this a try

2008-06-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Hello! So, I am new to this whole blog thing, but I thought I would give it a try. My name is Dani, and I am a 20 something beginning a new chapter in my life....in some aspects! I just graduated with my Bachelor's degree in accounting from Washington State in May. I am now going to start an internship with Ernst and Young TOMORROW! I'll be working as an assurance intern until August 15th. Then, because I am crazy, I am going to take another year to earn my Masters of Accountancy from WSU. My main goal at the end of all of this is to earn my CPA and start full time at EY.

Let's start with some vitals:

I am 21 (almost 22!)
Short, brunette, total girly girl
loves shopping and sports
not afraid to admit I'm a republican:)
proud Catholic
I'm an ESTJ

What's New: Today I am finally starting to feel like a real resident of Seattle. I went to meet Kimmy (friend from WSU) at Southcenter Mall and I was actually able to find my way around! Now, the average person may not think that this is a big accomplishment, but I grew up in Richland and went to school in Pullman. Not exactly big cities! Having been in Seattle for almost 2 weeks, I am starting to settle in. It is amazing how God has totally blessed me. My good friend Kristina from Hanford High lives 5 blocks away, I've found a great church, and I was able to even meet up with Andrea and her sister Jessica. The only thing that is hard is the fact that Nordstrom is so close. Me+Nordstrom=trouble!

There are a number of reasons I have decided to start this blog. Mostly to keep people informed with what I am up to at my internship and beyond, as well as a way to look back at how God has worked in my life. So, stay tuned...:)