Tori in Texas: Caucasian means white, right?

Random story to start off today's blog: Last week during some volunteer work where I pretty much just hang out and play with elementary kiddos, we had them fill out a questionaire. Every now and then while filling it out they had a question so we would help them, but another volunteer apparently did not know the answer to the question a girl asked her. I did not hear what the little girl asked the other volunteer, but I looked up as I heard the volunteer say "I'm not sure." She looked at me and said, "Caucasian means white, right?" (side note: shes a really cute and sweet girl but, seriously?) I blankly stare at her, considering she is a college student and more than likely has had to check boxes herself where she should know race terminology, not to mention the fact that she IS white herself. If you're a college student and don't know the answer to that question, I can't help you. After a few seconds I realize I'm probably giving her a rude glare, so I smile and just say "yeahhhh." What else can you say really?

This weekend was just what the doctor ordered. It was very laid back and chill, which was MUCH needed after this week of school and practicum. Friday started off with me getting my first pumpkin spice latte of the season from Starbucks (the first of many during Fall most likely) then heading out to Panera to work on some homework. This is normally how I spend the first few hours of my Fridays: PTL for no class on Friday! Then Friday night I hung out with some girlfriends where we started out making some dinner and then headed to the Union to see Sex and the City 2 for $2. (sweet deal!) For dinner we made pumpkin enchiladas...I know, sounds disgusting at first, but they were soooo good! So good, that I'm going to share the recipe so you can enjoy them too : ) You won't be disappointed!

3/4 yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

One 10 oz can of red enchilada sauce

1 can pure pumpkin

1 c. black or kidney beans

Large bunch of cilantro, chopped

1 1/2 tbsp. cumin

1 tsp. chili powder

1/2 cup shredded cheese

3 large whole wheat tortillas

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Sauté onion and garlic in a pan sprayed with cooking spray. Stir in enchilada sauce. Add pumpkin and stir until combined. Add cilantro, cumin and chili powder.

Spread a light layer of sauce on the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 pan. Fill tortillas with an even amount of sauce and beans. Roll tortillas and place in the pan with the folded edges facing down to keep them closed. Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 10 minutes or until cheese melts.

Saturday I went to go watch the KU band day parade on mass, then headed home to see and celebrate my dad for his birthday. For his real birthday he was in Belgium on business, and he brought back some seriously delicious chocolate. Its definitely a good thing I only took one of these back to Lawrence with me.

After dinner we had a fabulous father/daughter talk about life after graduation in May. (Who doesn't love those) Wayyyyyy too many options to think about right now! But I always love and appreciate the advice he has to offer. I need to decide if/when/where I want to go to grad school within the next couple months and I'm way too indecisive to figure it out on my own. So if any readers have advice of any sort it would be gladly appreciated : )

Today I finally got to attend the church I interned for during the summer where I was reunited with my fellow lady interns Aly and Karly. LOVE them! Not to mention I got to see and catch up with some other wonderful folks. Then I went out to lunch with the fabulous one & only Summer. We went to Jose Peppers, realizing half way through our meal we should tell the waitress that we're celebrating my birthday. (which could be partly true, even though my birthday isn't until tuesday) ...
Me- Oh and we're here celebrating my birthday
Waitress- Oh alright! Now we don't sing to you, but you can have your choice of any of our desserts on the house.
Me- (You mean I get a free dessert without having the embarassing moment of being sung to in a public place by strangers who will most likely sing out of tune? SOLD!) I think I'll manage.
Waitress- How old are you turning?
Me- 23.
Waitress- Really?! You look so much younger!
Me- yaaaaa, thanks. (I'm told I'll appreciate that later, but for now I'd like to not look 17. Thanks)