Day Zero Goal #85 - Learn to can fruits and vegetables.
This fall I did some canning - and while I haven't done it on my own yet, and I didn't do it all myself, I did learn how to do some things.
I did peaches and pears with my mom, and I watched Ryan's mom Lisa while she did beans and helped a bit with salsa - which is the best salsa I've ever had, hands down. I'm awfully glad I learned how to do that one!
Next fall, I plan to do more peaches, pears, tomatoes, beans, and salsa - maybe on my own, but probably with more help - and maybe some applesauce, too, if I can get my hands on some apples and an applesauce maker machine deal.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Day Zero # 3 - El libro de mormon
Day Zero #3 - Read the Book of Mormon in Spanish
I FINALLY finished this! This post is actually a bit overdue, I finished a few weeks ago. It was a really wonderful experience, learning that I can read the words that I love so much in another language, too. I gained a much stronger testimony that God is the same to all people, all nations, all tongues - He doesn't change. The Book of Mormon in Spanish is beautiful - but I won't lie, I'm excited to be back in my native language again. I guess no matter how much you practice a second language, you always do feel at least a little more comfortable in your native language, unless you're truly bilingual.
Still, this was a great experience that I'm glad I finally finished!
I FINALLY finished this! This post is actually a bit overdue, I finished a few weeks ago. It was a really wonderful experience, learning that I can read the words that I love so much in another language, too. I gained a much stronger testimony that God is the same to all people, all nations, all tongues - He doesn't change. The Book of Mormon in Spanish is beautiful - but I won't lie, I'm excited to be back in my native language again. I guess no matter how much you practice a second language, you always do feel at least a little more comfortable in your native language, unless you're truly bilingual.
Still, this was a great experience that I'm glad I finally finished!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
October Occurences
October was a fun month full of fun activities, a few ups and downs, and a lot of anxiousness to get to November (and then December).
Ryan and I hardly ever take pictures. Sorry.
Here's one that we did take. October was full of football. Some of the games have been a lot of fun, and others were fairly boring. Jen might have actually fallen asleep in the stadium during one of them... but that's secret. Shhh.
We also got our engagement pictures taken with Abby Alger. This was a lot of fun, and our pictures turned out absolutely beautiful! We love them. We're almost ready to submit our announcement for printing - it's getting closer!
We've had a lot of fun and also a lot of chances to get to understand each other better. I'm marrying the most humble, patient, loving, and committed man in the world. Needless to say, we're both looking forward to finish being engaged and be able to go forward with married life without the stress of planning a wedding, get through school, spend enough time with each other, balance all our other commitments and relationships, and figure out how to live in this sometimes-frustrating in-between stage. I fully endorse short engagements - by the time we arrive at the temple we will have been engaged almost four months, and it already feels like an an eternity, full of opportunities to become stressed and frustrated. We're looking forward to REAL eternity together. It won't be without its challenges, either - but it will be nice to be able to face them side by side.
Coming up in November: Bridal showers, lots of licking and sealing (announcements, not lollipops...sadly enough...), more football, dance practices for Jen and a Physics project for Ryan, Thanksgiving break, renting an apartment, finalizing the wedding plans, and many more hours together!
Ryan and I hardly ever take pictures. Sorry.
Here's one that we did take. October was full of football. Some of the games have been a lot of fun, and others were fairly boring. Jen might have actually fallen asleep in the stadium during one of them... but that's secret. Shhh.
We've had a lot of fun and also a lot of chances to get to understand each other better. I'm marrying the most humble, patient, loving, and committed man in the world. Needless to say, we're both looking forward to finish being engaged and be able to go forward with married life without the stress of planning a wedding, get through school, spend enough time with each other, balance all our other commitments and relationships, and figure out how to live in this sometimes-frustrating in-between stage. I fully endorse short engagements - by the time we arrive at the temple we will have been engaged almost four months, and it already feels like an an eternity, full of opportunities to become stressed and frustrated. We're looking forward to REAL eternity together. It won't be without its challenges, either - but it will be nice to be able to face them side by side.
Coming up in November: Bridal showers, lots of licking and sealing (announcements, not lollipops...sadly enough...), more football, dance practices for Jen and a Physics project for Ryan, Thanksgiving break, renting an apartment, finalizing the wedding plans, and many more hours together!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
The beauty of words
They open the book and see the first word, and like a stream of two-dimensional characters, the story comes to life in one long reel, the words tick-tick-ticking along like a steady stream of subtitles below a paper-doll-like chain of actions. And the pictures, in faded color and shades of gray, move jerkily forward, dragging their reader alongside like an unfortunate packhorse tied to a slowly moving wagon.
But I can see the page. Over their shoulder, I can see the words they're reading, with their forehead scrunched in concentration, their lips almost moving as they dwell, torturously, on each word, almost as if they're pronouncing it, rolling it around in their mouth before letting it go, concentrating on each noun and verb and preposition so hard that the meaning is painfully squeezed out of it like juice from a lemon, splattering them in the face and dripping stickily to the floor.
I can see those words, but as I look, craning my neck, they seem to leap from the page, spinning round and round like a vortex opening to swallow me whole. I see the letters leap from the dull, white pages and rearrange themselves, forming themselves into a story, a three-dimensional picture as rich and colorful as a movie, but surrounding me, covering me from head to toe in a shimmer of meaning.
My surroundings fade to gray as I tumble headlong into the story. No longer do the words march slowly on like apples on a conveyor belt, but instead they leap forward, triggering action and movement and color and sound, all around me, and suddenly I am no longer an observer, but a player, as the story unfolds around me. I jump as I hear the thunderclaps, and my eyes fill with tears as the heroine lays her sister to rest in the cold, frozen earth. The mountains tower above me, and I emerge from the bus, blinking in the summer light, searching for the man in the white top hat. I speed through the night, devouring the words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, turning page after page as the train speeds toward the twisted break in the track, my heart filled with terror for the passengers trapped on board. And when the words hold me back, I free myself from the words, my eyes searching only for the continuation of the story, leaving the articles and the prepositions and even some of the nouns behind. I thirst for meaning, and when the story finally reaches its climax and winds to a close, my heart pounds more slowly, my breathing quiets, and my hands tremble as I turn the last pages of the story, which finally releases me from the spell, and I blink in mild surprise to see my nondescript surroundings. The book lays innocently on my lap, the adventure bound quietly between the two stiff covers, waiting for me to come back, to once again venture between its pages, where lies an infinite realm of possibilities.
But I can see the page. Over their shoulder, I can see the words they're reading, with their forehead scrunched in concentration, their lips almost moving as they dwell, torturously, on each word, almost as if they're pronouncing it, rolling it around in their mouth before letting it go, concentrating on each noun and verb and preposition so hard that the meaning is painfully squeezed out of it like juice from a lemon, splattering them in the face and dripping stickily to the floor.
I can see those words, but as I look, craning my neck, they seem to leap from the page, spinning round and round like a vortex opening to swallow me whole. I see the letters leap from the dull, white pages and rearrange themselves, forming themselves into a story, a three-dimensional picture as rich and colorful as a movie, but surrounding me, covering me from head to toe in a shimmer of meaning.
My surroundings fade to gray as I tumble headlong into the story. No longer do the words march slowly on like apples on a conveyor belt, but instead they leap forward, triggering action and movement and color and sound, all around me, and suddenly I am no longer an observer, but a player, as the story unfolds around me. I jump as I hear the thunderclaps, and my eyes fill with tears as the heroine lays her sister to rest in the cold, frozen earth. The mountains tower above me, and I emerge from the bus, blinking in the summer light, searching for the man in the white top hat. I speed through the night, devouring the words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs, turning page after page as the train speeds toward the twisted break in the track, my heart filled with terror for the passengers trapped on board. And when the words hold me back, I free myself from the words, my eyes searching only for the continuation of the story, leaving the articles and the prepositions and even some of the nouns behind. I thirst for meaning, and when the story finally reaches its climax and winds to a close, my heart pounds more slowly, my breathing quiets, and my hands tremble as I turn the last pages of the story, which finally releases me from the spell, and I blink in mild surprise to see my nondescript surroundings. The book lays innocently on my lap, the adventure bound quietly between the two stiff covers, waiting for me to come back, to once again venture between its pages, where lies an infinite realm of possibilities.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Heart mapping
Today in class, we had a third grade teacher come and give us a mock lesson.
We did an activity called heart mapping.
Basically it involved drawing a heart with a circle inside, and then a smaller circle inside the circle.
In the innermost circle, we put the things that mean the very most to us, like family, friends, testimony... etc.
In the outer circle, we put things we really love. Then, between the heart and the first circle, we put things we like.
Then we picked something and wrote about it. It was amazing to see how much more the writing activity meant when it was something I cared about.
But more than that, I pondered on the activity. Heart mapping. How does one map their heart? What paths do I go along, what things do I climb over to get to the things I love the most? What defenses do I have to get through to get to my most precious things, or is my heart open to anyone? Does my heart have a big "Welcome" mat on the porch, or is it locked up tight with me inside, hoping everyone will think I'm not home?
And more than that... what's in my inner circle? I can make a list. But do the people and things I say are in my inner circle actually receive enough attention and emphasis that they know they're in my inner circle?
Just something to think about.
Viva la Vida.
We did an activity called heart mapping.
Basically it involved drawing a heart with a circle inside, and then a smaller circle inside the circle.
In the innermost circle, we put the things that mean the very most to us, like family, friends, testimony... etc.
In the outer circle, we put things we really love. Then, between the heart and the first circle, we put things we like.
Then we picked something and wrote about it. It was amazing to see how much more the writing activity meant when it was something I cared about.
But more than that, I pondered on the activity. Heart mapping. How does one map their heart? What paths do I go along, what things do I climb over to get to the things I love the most? What defenses do I have to get through to get to my most precious things, or is my heart open to anyone? Does my heart have a big "Welcome" mat on the porch, or is it locked up tight with me inside, hoping everyone will think I'm not home?
And more than that... what's in my inner circle? I can make a list. But do the people and things I say are in my inner circle actually receive enough attention and emphasis that they know they're in my inner circle?
Just something to think about.
Viva la Vida.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Tuesday is the new Friday
After all, Monday is so long that you pretty much need a weekend by the time you stagger, gasping, to the end of Tuesday. Wednesday? Pffff.... overrated.... :)
Last night Ryan and I silently and mutually decided that Tuesday night needed to be extra special. After all, it's going to be a long, rainy week.
So we went for a walk.
And we split a J-Dawg. It was my very first J-Dawg. I do not like the special sauce. It was not special. But the experience (and the person I was with) were extra-special. So that made up for the non-specialness of the special sauce.
And we got frozen yogurt with crazy toppings, and we even managed to not pay all of our arms and legs and only half of our firstborn children for it.
And then we sat on a hill and enjoyed each other's company and froze to death while eating the yogurt (well, I did anyway) and we probably made all the people coming out of the building opposite us feel awkward, what with the yogurt-eating couple staring at them as they walk down the sidewalk.
And then we watched PSYCH and finished season 2.
All in all, it was an excellent Friday night date. Actually, Tuesday night date. We've heard it both ways. :)
Last night Ryan and I silently and mutually decided that Tuesday night needed to be extra special. After all, it's going to be a long, rainy week.
So we went for a walk.
And we split a J-Dawg. It was my very first J-Dawg. I do not like the special sauce. It was not special. But the experience (and the person I was with) were extra-special. So that made up for the non-specialness of the special sauce.
And we got frozen yogurt with crazy toppings, and we even managed to not pay all of our arms and legs and only half of our firstborn children for it.
And then we sat on a hill and enjoyed each other's company and froze to death while eating the yogurt (well, I did anyway) and we probably made all the people coming out of the building opposite us feel awkward, what with the yogurt-eating couple staring at them as they walk down the sidewalk.
And then we watched PSYCH and finished season 2.
All in all, it was an excellent Friday night date. Actually, Tuesday night date. We've heard it both ways. :)
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Happy New Year
Today is the first day of a brand new year.
I know, you're confused. "New Year's isn't until January 1st! It's only September 27th!"
But, when you think about it, a new year starts every single day. Each day of our lives we're given the opportunity to start fresh, to set goals, to make resolutions, and to leave the past behind as we face forward with a new hope for the future.
Ryan likes to tell me I'm perfect. And when he does, it makes me smile. I think about how lucky I am to have such an amazing man think so highly of me. However, we've instead adopted the phrase "You're perfect for me" in lieu of calling each other perfect. Because, let's face it, as much as we'd all like to be perfect, none of us are. Only our Savior, Jesus Christ, came to earth and lived a perfect life. The rest of us struggle. We have failings and shortcomings. Sometimes our mistakes are small, and sometimes they're big. But we all have them. Myself included.
One of my favorite songs talks about how "the person who I've been lately isn't who I want to be." I think everyone sings these lyrics to themselves at one point or another in their life. I sometimes look back at a day or a week or even a month and think, "That's not who I am. That's not how I act. I'm better than that." And it can be incredibly disheartening to realize that I've spent so much time living far below my potential as a daughter of God.
I was thinking about that this morning, thinking about all the times I've been unkind, or judged harshly, and all the times I've made excuses for myself when I didn't do everything I knew I should. And I started feeling pretty down about it.
And then I remembered something my mission prep teacher said two years ago. He told us that repentance and forgiveness is literally becoming a new person. Just like starting a new year every day, repentance allows us to start over at the beginning - just as if it had never happened and we had been perfect all along. And once I repent, all of my frustration and shortness is gone, because that was the old me, and this is the new me.
I remember in class thinking that that was kind of weird, and I didn't quite get the concept of forgiving and forgetting - especially forgiving myself. But the more I come to understand about the Atonement, the more I know that it's true. "Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more." (Doctrine & Covenants 58:42) If the Lord forgives and forgets my sins and moves on, who am I to refuse to do so as well?
President Holland gave one of my all-time favorite talks at BYU one year - and it's one that still makes me cry every time I read it. As he said:
Forgive, and do that which is harder than to forgive. Forget. And when it comes to mind, forget it again.... Dismiss the destructive and keep dismissing it, until the beauty of the Atonement of Christ has revealed to you your bright future, and the bright future of your family and your friends and your neighbors. God doesn't care nearly as much about where you have been as He does about where you are, and with His help, where you are willing to go. That is the thing Lot's wife didn't get. This is an important matter to consider at the start of a new year ‐‐ and every day ought to be the start of a new year and a new life. Such is the wonder of faith and repentance and the miracles of the Gospel
of Jesus Christ.
So happy new year! I stand forever grateful for my Savior - who suffered so that I could have a clean slate, and when I mess up again, as I almost inevitably will, so that I could have another one. And one day we'll be able to stand with Him and see just how far we've come, all thanks to His infinite love and sacrifice.
Viva la Vida.
I know, you're confused. "New Year's isn't until January 1st! It's only September 27th!"
But, when you think about it, a new year starts every single day. Each day of our lives we're given the opportunity to start fresh, to set goals, to make resolutions, and to leave the past behind as we face forward with a new hope for the future.
Ryan likes to tell me I'm perfect. And when he does, it makes me smile. I think about how lucky I am to have such an amazing man think so highly of me. However, we've instead adopted the phrase "You're perfect for me" in lieu of calling each other perfect. Because, let's face it, as much as we'd all like to be perfect, none of us are. Only our Savior, Jesus Christ, came to earth and lived a perfect life. The rest of us struggle. We have failings and shortcomings. Sometimes our mistakes are small, and sometimes they're big. But we all have them. Myself included.
One of my favorite songs talks about how "the person who I've been lately isn't who I want to be." I think everyone sings these lyrics to themselves at one point or another in their life. I sometimes look back at a day or a week or even a month and think, "That's not who I am. That's not how I act. I'm better than that." And it can be incredibly disheartening to realize that I've spent so much time living far below my potential as a daughter of God.
I was thinking about that this morning, thinking about all the times I've been unkind, or judged harshly, and all the times I've made excuses for myself when I didn't do everything I knew I should. And I started feeling pretty down about it.
And then I remembered something my mission prep teacher said two years ago. He told us that repentance and forgiveness is literally becoming a new person. Just like starting a new year every day, repentance allows us to start over at the beginning - just as if it had never happened and we had been perfect all along. And once I repent, all of my frustration and shortness is gone, because that was the old me, and this is the new me.
I remember in class thinking that that was kind of weird, and I didn't quite get the concept of forgiving and forgetting - especially forgiving myself. But the more I come to understand about the Atonement, the more I know that it's true. "Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more." (Doctrine & Covenants 58:42) If the Lord forgives and forgets my sins and moves on, who am I to refuse to do so as well?
President Holland gave one of my all-time favorite talks at BYU one year - and it's one that still makes me cry every time I read it. As he said:
Forgive, and do that which is harder than to forgive. Forget. And when it comes to mind, forget it again.... Dismiss the destructive and keep dismissing it, until the beauty of the Atonement of Christ has revealed to you your bright future, and the bright future of your family and your friends and your neighbors. God doesn't care nearly as much about where you have been as He does about where you are, and with His help, where you are willing to go. That is the thing Lot's wife didn't get. This is an important matter to consider at the start of a new year ‐‐ and every day ought to be the start of a new year and a new life. Such is the wonder of faith and repentance and the miracles of the Gospel
of Jesus Christ.
So happy new year! I stand forever grateful for my Savior - who suffered so that I could have a clean slate, and when I mess up again, as I almost inevitably will, so that I could have another one. And one day we'll be able to stand with Him and see just how far we've come, all thanks to His infinite love and sacrifice.
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Day Zero #13 - Run in an official race/event
Kokopelli.
That's a fun word to say. It happened Saturday down in St George. Friday we (me, Ryan, Ryans' brother and sister and brother's brother-in-law and his parents) packed up and went down to St. George. After checking in and getting our numbers written all over us in Sharpie (NOT my favorite part of running in a triathlon!) we went out to eat, all ordered too much food (apparently because we were about to run a race we all thought we could eat more? go figure) and then went to bed.
We all woke up bright and early (correction: I was already awake, having had nightmares about oversleeping and missing the entire thing and losing my shoes - who knows where that came from) and we headed down to the state park. There were like half a bazillion people there, it was crazy. We set everything up and got all ready.
The swim was first, and I was the first of our group to start, since I was doing the sprint distance instead of the regular Olympic length. I was super nervous... but when I jumped in the water, I got really excited, especially since my wetsuit was practically keeping me afloat, and keeping all the water out. The wetsuit practically pushed me the whole time, and sand hollow reservoir is PERFECT for swimming in! I loved it. I finished the swim in the middle of my group - 24 minutes. Not great, but it's a personal best.
The bike and run were after that... nothing too exciting, the bike course was insane, there was this GIANT hill that wanted to kill everyone, curse whoever decided the race course should be over that hill... but I made it, and then the run wasn't too hard. However, at the end you had to run up this hill. Then at the top, people start cheering for you, just because they're nice like that. So me, being excited and all, decide to sprint to the finish. But unfortunately, I started my sprint WAY too soon... and had to take it back a few notches before I actually crossed the line.
It was definitely an experience to remember, and maybe to repeat... We'll see!
That's a fun word to say. It happened Saturday down in St George. Friday we (me, Ryan, Ryans' brother and sister and brother's brother-in-law and his parents) packed up and went down to St. George. After checking in and getting our numbers written all over us in Sharpie (NOT my favorite part of running in a triathlon!) we went out to eat, all ordered too much food (apparently because we were about to run a race we all thought we could eat more? go figure) and then went to bed.
We all woke up bright and early (correction: I was already awake, having had nightmares about oversleeping and missing the entire thing and losing my shoes - who knows where that came from) and we headed down to the state park. There were like half a bazillion people there, it was crazy. We set everything up and got all ready.
The swim was first, and I was the first of our group to start, since I was doing the sprint distance instead of the regular Olympic length. I was super nervous... but when I jumped in the water, I got really excited, especially since my wetsuit was practically keeping me afloat, and keeping all the water out. The wetsuit practically pushed me the whole time, and sand hollow reservoir is PERFECT for swimming in! I loved it. I finished the swim in the middle of my group - 24 minutes. Not great, but it's a personal best.
 |
| Getting out of the water after the swim |
 |
| Yeah. This is how I felt by the time I was almost to the end. |
And then I noticed the photographer right there taking pictures of me. So I smiled, that seemed like the appropriate thing to do. And then it clicked that I had just FINISHED a triathlon and then my smile was for real. Awesome.
 |
| Crossing the finish line |
 |
| Ryan and I after finishing. I'm marrying a triathlete :) |
Thursday, September 15, 2011
I should be doing homework...
But.... it's not as fun as...
Wedding dress? Check!
Furniture for apartment? Check!
Colors picked? Check!
Food for reception decided upon? Mostly check!
Aaaaand that's about as far as I've gotten. Oh snap. Three months :)
Aaaaaaaaaaannnnd if it's not too much trouble, I'd just like to say that while being engaged has its frustrating times, when you just wish like heck that time would hurry up already... knowing that I'm going to get to spend eternity with the guy I fell in love with nearly four years ago is the most amazing feeling in the world. I'm so lucky, and so happy!
And if you're tired of reading about how head over heels in love I am, you can take a refreshing break and watch this video here:
Wedding dress? Check!
Furniture for apartment? Check!
Colors picked? Check!
Food for reception decided upon? Mostly check!
Aaaaand that's about as far as I've gotten. Oh snap. Three months :)
Aaaaaaaaaaannnnd if it's not too much trouble, I'd just like to say that while being engaged has its frustrating times, when you just wish like heck that time would hurry up already... knowing that I'm going to get to spend eternity with the guy I fell in love with nearly four years ago is the most amazing feeling in the world. I'm so lucky, and so happy!
And if you're tired of reading about how head over heels in love I am, you can take a refreshing break and watch this video here:
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Recent favorite
I love this song.
I’ve been a walking heartache
I’ve made a mess of me
The person that I’ve been lately
Ain’t who I wanna be
But you stay here right beside me
And watch as the storm blows through
And I need you
Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you
Gave me you
There’s more here than what we’re seeing
A divine conspiracy
That you, an angel lovely
Could somehow fall for me
You’ll always be love’s great martyr
And I’ll be the flattered fool
And I need you
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you
On my own I’m only
Half of what I could be
I can’t do without you
We are stitched together
And what love has tethered
I pray we never undo
Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you, gave me you.
He gave me you.
I’ve made a mess of me
The person that I’ve been lately
Ain’t who I wanna be
But you stay here right beside me
And watch as the storm blows through
And I need you
Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you
Gave me you
There’s more here than what we’re seeing
A divine conspiracy
That you, an angel lovely
Could somehow fall for me
You’ll always be love’s great martyr
And I’ll be the flattered fool
And I need you
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you
On my own I’m only
Half of what I could be
I can’t do without you
We are stitched together
And what love has tethered
I pray we never undo
Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you, gave me you.
He gave me you.
-God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton
Friday, September 2, 2011
I think in terms of December...
Typical conversation:
"Are you engaged?!"
"Yep!"
"Oh, congratulations, that's so exciting!"
"Yeah, we're pretty excited!"
"So when's the big day?"
"The 16th."
"Of this month?! Oh my gosh! That's so awesome!"
"Oh... no... not this month, it's the 16th of December."
I keep having to remind myself that not everyone naturally assumes that "the 16th" means December... it's going to be a long semester...
"Are you engaged?!"
"Yep!"
"Oh, congratulations, that's so exciting!"
"Yeah, we're pretty excited!"
"So when's the big day?"
"The 16th."
"Of this month?! Oh my gosh! That's so awesome!"
"Oh... no... not this month, it's the 16th of December."
I keep having to remind myself that not everyone naturally assumes that "the 16th" means December... it's going to be a long semester...
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
How I got engaged to the most amazing man in the world... and other such stories
I suppose everything begins with a hot Saturday afternoon sitting in Ryan's yard - having just finished a trial triathlon with his family, and discussing what we would do that night. Ryan's mom says, "Ryan, you should plan a nice date for Jen." And he says, "Okay, that sounds good." So a surprise "nice" date for me is planned for Friday. Nothing out of the ordinary.
Enter Thursday morning - and I wake up with that sinking feeling that I'm sick. Quite sick. Too sick to go to work. So I stay home, and Ryan brings me cough drops and soup, and insists I'm beautiful even though I haven't showered. Yes, I know, I'm quite a lucky girl.
Friday comes - the day we're supposed to go on the date he's planned. But I still feel pretty bad. Although he seems pretty disappointed, we decide to postpone until Saturday. He comes over and watches a movie with me, and that evening I go to bed early, and he spends the evening with his parents and a mission companion who stops by.
Saturday dawns with me feeling tired, but marginally better. I tell Ryan I feel better, but I still think perhaps we should push back this surprise date until Monday. I mean, I don't want to be no fun, or not enjoy it. However, he is quite insistent that we go. He says we'll be mostly in the car, and that it won't be tiring, and that he thinks it'll be good for me and I'll be glad I went. So I agree, somewhat reluctantly.
He picks me up and we take off in the car - armed with cough drops and a water bottle! We drive to our high school and we walk over to the sidewalk outside our old Spanish classroom. He hands me a present to open and it's a book about "our story" - which pretty much started in AP Spanish in 2007. So I read the first page, and then he says I can't read any farther.
We then drive to a bunch of places, all places where we have memories together. And at each place I get to read another page in the book - all about how this one guy did all these things with this one girl and they both fell in love. And at each place he gives me a small gift - something that has to do with the memory at that place. It was super cute. After driving around to a number of places - Wendy's, the bowling alley, the freshman dorms, etc - we end up at the MTC - where he gives me his name tag - and I cry... I'm such a girl. Those were two good years. Long, sometimes difficult years, but rewarding, and a blessing to both of us.
Finally we start heading up the canyon. A couple times during the date, I had thought, Huh, this could be a good way to end up proposing. But I shrugged it off, because I honestly didn't think that he was ready. So we head up the canyon. At first I think we're going to Sundance - perfect ending - picnic by where our most recent nice date had been - maybe dessert or something, who knows.
Nope. We turn off at this park I've never been to before. We walk past a pavillion of people and down this little trail by the river. He opens the book and there's a picture of the exact spot we're at. At this point, I'm so confused. "Ryan, I've never been here before. What is this supposed to represent? I've never been here!" "But Jen, don't you remember?" "No, Ryan, I don't remember, I've never been here!"
"Oh... Well, that's because it hasn't happened yet."
And he turns the page over and the book continues our story, and I see the words "propose" and "forever" and I don't know whether to laugh or cry, I'm so happy, and he's kneeling down and pulling out a ring, and he said something that he apparently practiced for a long time, but I don't remember a word of it (I'm sorry, Ryan...) and I nodded, and said yes, and then he asked me if I would be his tennis doubles partner for eternity (I remember that part! inside joke) and that is how I got engaged to the most amazing man in the world. And I have never been happier in my whole, entire life!
And, like the book said, this story would normally end right here with "The end." But that's the best part of this story. There is no end.
I love him.
Viva la Vida.
Enter Thursday morning - and I wake up with that sinking feeling that I'm sick. Quite sick. Too sick to go to work. So I stay home, and Ryan brings me cough drops and soup, and insists I'm beautiful even though I haven't showered. Yes, I know, I'm quite a lucky girl.
Friday comes - the day we're supposed to go on the date he's planned. But I still feel pretty bad. Although he seems pretty disappointed, we decide to postpone until Saturday. He comes over and watches a movie with me, and that evening I go to bed early, and he spends the evening with his parents and a mission companion who stops by.
Saturday dawns with me feeling tired, but marginally better. I tell Ryan I feel better, but I still think perhaps we should push back this surprise date until Monday. I mean, I don't want to be no fun, or not enjoy it. However, he is quite insistent that we go. He says we'll be mostly in the car, and that it won't be tiring, and that he thinks it'll be good for me and I'll be glad I went. So I agree, somewhat reluctantly.
Finally we start heading up the canyon. A couple times during the date, I had thought, Huh, this could be a good way to end up proposing. But I shrugged it off, because I honestly didn't think that he was ready. So we head up the canyon. At first I think we're going to Sundance - perfect ending - picnic by where our most recent nice date had been - maybe dessert or something, who knows.
Nope. We turn off at this park I've never been to before. We walk past a pavillion of people and down this little trail by the river. He opens the book and there's a picture of the exact spot we're at. At this point, I'm so confused. "Ryan, I've never been here before. What is this supposed to represent? I've never been here!" "But Jen, don't you remember?" "No, Ryan, I don't remember, I've never been here!"
"Oh... Well, that's because it hasn't happened yet."
And he turns the page over and the book continues our story, and I see the words "propose" and "forever" and I don't know whether to laugh or cry, I'm so happy, and he's kneeling down and pulling out a ring, and he said something that he apparently practiced for a long time, but I don't remember a word of it (I'm sorry, Ryan...) and I nodded, and said yes, and then he asked me if I would be his tennis doubles partner for eternity (I remember that part! inside joke) and that is how I got engaged to the most amazing man in the world. And I have never been happier in my whole, entire life!
And, like the book said, this story would normally end right here with "The end." But that's the best part of this story. There is no end.
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
New
New roommates.
New apartment.
New car.
New shoulder bag.
New semester.
New website at work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New ring on my finger that I can't stop looking at and smiling.
New last name coming up in about 112 days, 23 hours, 43 minutes.
New kitchen appliances for US, not ME, waiting in my closet.
New smile on my face that simply won't go away. And I definitely don't want it to!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Proposal story coming soon, for those of you who are interested and haven't already heard it!
New apartment.
New car.
New shoulder bag.
New semester.
New website at work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New ring on my finger that I can't stop looking at and smiling.
New last name coming up in about 112 days, 23 hours, 43 minutes.
New kitchen appliances for US, not ME, waiting in my closet.
New smile on my face that simply won't go away. And I definitely don't want it to!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Proposal story coming soon, for those of you who are interested and haven't already heard it!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The good and the bad...
Budgeting is the bane of my existence, next to the IRS - which happens to be a big reason that budgeting is the bane of my existence.
The bad news? I paid $1600 less on my student loan this summer than I had planned. That's a hefty chunk of money.
The good news? It wasn't entirely my fault. I made $1500 less this summer than I had planned. About 450 of that went to the IRS. $250 went to office closures due to university, state, and federal holidays. And the remaining $800 went to time off for a vacation - since I neglected to consider a family vacation when I planned my summer income schedule.
My sense of relief at realizing I did not squander all of $1600 this summer is pretty great - however, it's closely followed by the sense of frustration that I lost $700 to taxes and federal holidays... Especially when a significant portion of that went to Social Security - which I have zero hope of ever seeing in my bank account.
"Money talks. Mine mostly likes to call goodbye as it hurries away."
Viva la Vida. Preferably inexpensively.
The bad news? I paid $1600 less on my student loan this summer than I had planned. That's a hefty chunk of money.
The good news? It wasn't entirely my fault. I made $1500 less this summer than I had planned. About 450 of that went to the IRS. $250 went to office closures due to university, state, and federal holidays. And the remaining $800 went to time off for a vacation - since I neglected to consider a family vacation when I planned my summer income schedule.
My sense of relief at realizing I did not squander all of $1600 this summer is pretty great - however, it's closely followed by the sense of frustration that I lost $700 to taxes and federal holidays... Especially when a significant portion of that went to Social Security - which I have zero hope of ever seeing in my bank account.
"Money talks. Mine mostly likes to call goodbye as it hurries away."
Viva la Vida. Preferably inexpensively.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Double chocolate peanut butter awesome
I had a cookie monster moment. It was fast sunday, and I saw the bag of Reeses on my nightstand, and the light went on. Double chocolate peanut butter cup cookies. Brilliant idea.
So here's the recipe I used:
Ingredients:
So here's the recipe I used:
Ingredients:
1 cup butter or margarine, softened 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg 1/3 cup baking cocoa Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes, until you can just see little cracks appearing on the edges of the cookie. Don't overcook, it'll make them too chewy. These were delicious. My official taste tester gets home tonight, so we'll see what he thinks. :) | 2 tablespoons milk 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon baking powder - I put in 1/2 tsp for extra fluffiness 1 cup chopped Reeses Peanut Butter Cups (I would recommend freezing them a little bit first, so they aren't as messy when you're chopping them up) |
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Frustration cycle
I'm sitting at my desk, busily checking student statuses for an important project.
The office phone rings. I ignore it and the secretary picks it up. That's fine, it's not my phone. It's not my job to answer it.
Someone walks in the door. He towers over me, probably over six feet tall, and I'm sitting down. I smile politely as the secretary's phone call ends. She helps him. I keep typing numbers. He talks loudly. I realize I've typed in the same name twice. I try to block out the sound and keep working, a smile pasted stickily on my face.
Another student walks in the door. Even taller than the first one. He comes to my desk and looks at me hesitantly. I glance up, he draws a breath... I cut him off and say, "She'll help you in just a minute." He closes his mouth and nods. He stands there waiting, inches in front of my desk. The other student is taking a long time. The second student keeps looking back at me. My sticky smile melts rapidly into a grimace of frustration. My pulse speeds up.My palms are sweaty. My insides scream at me to ask what his question is, to offer to help him. I feel I'm being very rude. He's inches away, he's staring at me, staring me down, wondering who this incompetent student secretary is who won't help him. It's not my job, I think to myself. I have my own work. But I can't remember what name I was on, and the spreadsheets in front of me are blending together into one confusing mass. The first student is still talking, loudly, louder every minute, it's so loud, the second student stares and stares... I stand abruptly and walk into another office until they're gone. It's not my job. I'm not a receptionist. Over and over again, pounding through my head, but he doesn't know that. He doesn't know that there's no REAL office space for me, that I'm just sitting at the front desk looking silly because there's nowhere else to put me. He just sees another student secretary, younger, probably, and shorter than him, who is being very rude and refusing to help him.
The noise distracts me. I can't think. Finally I return to my desk and pick up where I left off. They're gone. I can breathe again. My pulse slows. I wipe my hands on my skirt and try to remember what I was doing when it started.
The phone is ringing again.
The office phone rings. I ignore it and the secretary picks it up. That's fine, it's not my phone. It's not my job to answer it.
Someone walks in the door. He towers over me, probably over six feet tall, and I'm sitting down. I smile politely as the secretary's phone call ends. She helps him. I keep typing numbers. He talks loudly. I realize I've typed in the same name twice. I try to block out the sound and keep working, a smile pasted stickily on my face.
Another student walks in the door. Even taller than the first one. He comes to my desk and looks at me hesitantly. I glance up, he draws a breath... I cut him off and say, "She'll help you in just a minute." He closes his mouth and nods. He stands there waiting, inches in front of my desk. The other student is taking a long time. The second student keeps looking back at me. My sticky smile melts rapidly into a grimace of frustration. My pulse speeds up.My palms are sweaty. My insides scream at me to ask what his question is, to offer to help him. I feel I'm being very rude. He's inches away, he's staring at me, staring me down, wondering who this incompetent student secretary is who won't help him. It's not my job, I think to myself. I have my own work. But I can't remember what name I was on, and the spreadsheets in front of me are blending together into one confusing mass. The first student is still talking, loudly, louder every minute, it's so loud, the second student stares and stares... I stand abruptly and walk into another office until they're gone. It's not my job. I'm not a receptionist. Over and over again, pounding through my head, but he doesn't know that. He doesn't know that there's no REAL office space for me, that I'm just sitting at the front desk looking silly because there's nowhere else to put me. He just sees another student secretary, younger, probably, and shorter than him, who is being very rude and refusing to help him.
The noise distracts me. I can't think. Finally I return to my desk and pick up where I left off. They're gone. I can breathe again. My pulse slows. I wipe my hands on my skirt and try to remember what I was doing when it started.
The phone is ringing again.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Just thinking
{senior prom}
{graduation}
{mission farewell}
{valencia, spain}
{three and a half years after the beginning}
I love him.
I love him.
Day Zero #7 & 31 - Movies and Swimming
#7: Attend the midnight premiere of a movie.
Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows - Part 2. It was epic. And awesome. And I can't wait to see it again! I took some pictures but... they're blurry. Maybe next time. I highly recommend midnight shows, though, particularly the three hour wait on the sidewalk outside playing word games and 20 questions with friends. And eating candy. Lots of candy...
#31: Learn how to swim properly.
This happened quite unintentionally. Ryan's family is doing a triathlon in September, and they invited me to join them. In the process I would knock out goal number 13 (run in an official race/athletic event) and so I thought, hey, why not. So we went swimming. And after a couple of nights of nearly swallowing the pool, I finally mastered proper swimming - head in the water and everything. The goggles definitely help. My life is enriched now that I know how to swim. Next up: master that awesome little underwater somersault to turn around...
Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows - Part 2. It was epic. And awesome. And I can't wait to see it again! I took some pictures but... they're blurry. Maybe next time. I highly recommend midnight shows, though, particularly the three hour wait on the sidewalk outside playing word games and 20 questions with friends. And eating candy. Lots of candy...
#31: Learn how to swim properly.
This happened quite unintentionally. Ryan's family is doing a triathlon in September, and they invited me to join them. In the process I would knock out goal number 13 (run in an official race/athletic event) and so I thought, hey, why not. So we went swimming. And after a couple of nights of nearly swallowing the pool, I finally mastered proper swimming - head in the water and everything. The goggles definitely help. My life is enriched now that I know how to swim. Next up: master that awesome little underwater somersault to turn around...
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Too good for a title
Seriously. There's simply not a title I could imagine up that could accurately capture the fabulousness of life right now.
- Bowling
- Long walks in the wind
- Dinners
- Swimming
- Movies
- Games
- Miniature golf
- FHE
- Running
- Basketball
You can see I haven't changed much. I can't resist ruining a perfectly good picture :)
This one is better.
Life is beautiful and amazing and I love it!
Viva la Vida.
Monday, July 18, 2011
'Tis the Season
Today I am thinking about strings of colored lights, and the smell of a fresh pine tree in the window. I'm thinking about snowflakes and standing in the street at night watching them fall all around me, until a snowball flies out of the darkness into my face and suddenly there's laughter and shrieking and the world becomes a raging battle of white, wet fluff. I'm thinking about spiced cider simmering on the stove and making the whole house feel like heaven just because of the smell. I'm thinking about hiding things under the bed and in the corner of the closet and under the socks in the bottom drawer and keeping everyone informed of all the places they're not allowed to look for the next five weeks. I'm thinking about long lists of names and having genius ideas of what to give people and working frantically to finish everything in time. I'm thinking about carols by candlelight, reading the story over and over, remembering the real reason that this season is the most wonderful time of the year. I'm thinking sugar cookies and lemon pound cake and nutmeg and popcorn, green saran wrap and orange frosting on carrot cookies. I'm thinking snowboots and scarves and striped gloves. But most of all I'm thinking of sitting on the floor under a beautiful evergreen tree, listening to soft music and thinking about how beautiful life is until I fall asleep.
It's July 18.
Oh boy.
Viva la Vida.
It's July 18.
Oh boy.
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Swimming laps
I learned how to swim laps this week. And by swimming laps, I mean learning the general art of keeping my head in the water, coordinating my breathing, keeping my eyes in my goggles open, swimming a straight line, NOT inhaling the entire pool... etc.
It's like life. There's a lot to think about. If you stop doing any of the important things, you choke, and the water wastes no time in trying to drown you. You have to be diligent, keep moving forward, keep a steady rhythm going, and not panic when things don't go quite right.
You also have to slow down. President Uchtdorf gave an amazing conference address where he challenged us to focus on the things that matter most, to simplify our lives a little. When life gets stressful and challenges arise, too often we try to keep up the same frantic pace. There is no shame in stopping to breathe, in taking some time to refocus on the important things in life. Just like in swimming, too often we choke a little and instead of slowing to take a deeper breath, we plunge on ahead, often nearly drowning ourselves in the process.
Life is too beautiful to waste a single moment coughing and spluttering in a frantic pace toward a supposed finish line. Life is not a race, but a journey, to be taken at the pace that most enables us to progress. Worry, fear, and stress are a part of life. They visit every so often, and when they do, it is up to us to take a deep breath and continue paddling, to continue doing the things that matter most. The Lord counsels, "Do not run faster or labor more than you have strength...but be diligent unto the end." (D&C 10:4)
With perseverance and unwavering faith, pretty soon we'll finish our laps and reach the end of the pool and, like Paul, be able to say, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith... Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day." (2 Tim. 4:7-8).
Viva la Vida.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
But be of good cheer; I have overcome the world
The phrase "Be of good cheer" has occasionally stuck out to me in various contexts, and I've often wondered just what exactly Christ meant when He told us to "be of good cheer." Surely, I've thought, there are times when He can't possibly expect us to be cheerful - the world is filled with trials and problems that touch each of our lives in personal and painful ways. But the more I learn about the gospel, the more I realize that yes, it is possible to be of good cheer, even in the midst of a whirlwind of pain and affliction.
I read an amazing article in the Ensign today that talked about this very subject. I highly recommend it, it can be found online here or on page 57 of the July 2011 Ensign. I think the adversary didn't want me to read it, because I literally started to read it six times before I was finally able to finish the whole thing uninterrupted. And when I finally did, I was really glad. The author pointed out a number of things that really stood out to me.
First, "Obedience to God is not insurance against pain and sadness." It's a false assumption to think that if we're perfect, life will be perfect. To quote a favorite movie, "Life IS pain, Princess. Anyone who says differently is selling something." (Princess Bride).
Challenges, trials, and tests of faith are an inherent part of life, and they are no respecter of persons. Everyone suffers, even those who strive daily to keep all the commandments. Therefore, we can be of good cheer even in the midst of the trial, knowing that pain and suffering doesn't mean God is punishing us, or that we're bad people.
Second, if we believe that we have to be perfect before the Atonement will cover us - we're wrong. It's easy to think that we have to be perfect in all things and then Christ's atonement will kick in and relieve us of the heavy burdens we bear.
I have come to know that our Heavenly Father does not leave anyone to struggle alone, trying to lift the burden of perfection without His help. The only catch is simply that we have to turn to Him. Sometimes that involves acknowledging personal weakness. Sometimes it takes repentance, or humility. No matter what it requires, the promise is that the weight will lift from our shoulders, and we can find joy through Him.
"Cheerfulness in the scriptural context connotes a divinely assured optimism, "a deep trust in God's unfolding purposes," a grounded conviction that God will always keep His promises.... True happiness and satisfaction are found only by turning away from the world and coming to Christ." He has promised His help, His love, and His forgiveness when we come to Him in humility. "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
I can think of no better reason to be of good cheer.
Viva la Vida.
I read an amazing article in the Ensign today that talked about this very subject. I highly recommend it, it can be found online here or on page 57 of the July 2011 Ensign. I think the adversary didn't want me to read it, because I literally started to read it six times before I was finally able to finish the whole thing uninterrupted. And when I finally did, I was really glad. The author pointed out a number of things that really stood out to me.
First, "Obedience to God is not insurance against pain and sadness." It's a false assumption to think that if we're perfect, life will be perfect. To quote a favorite movie, "Life IS pain, Princess. Anyone who says differently is selling something." (Princess Bride).
Challenges, trials, and tests of faith are an inherent part of life, and they are no respecter of persons. Everyone suffers, even those who strive daily to keep all the commandments. Therefore, we can be of good cheer even in the midst of the trial, knowing that pain and suffering doesn't mean God is punishing us, or that we're bad people.
Second, if we believe that we have to be perfect before the Atonement will cover us - we're wrong. It's easy to think that we have to be perfect in all things and then Christ's atonement will kick in and relieve us of the heavy burdens we bear.
I have come to know that our Heavenly Father does not leave anyone to struggle alone, trying to lift the burden of perfection without His help. The only catch is simply that we have to turn to Him. Sometimes that involves acknowledging personal weakness. Sometimes it takes repentance, or humility. No matter what it requires, the promise is that the weight will lift from our shoulders, and we can find joy through Him.
"Cheerfulness in the scriptural context connotes a divinely assured optimism, "a deep trust in God's unfolding purposes," a grounded conviction that God will always keep His promises.... True happiness and satisfaction are found only by turning away from the world and coming to Christ." He has promised His help, His love, and His forgiveness when we come to Him in humility. "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)
I can think of no better reason to be of good cheer.
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Day Zero #21 - Read 7 book recommendations
#21: Get 7 book recommendations from friends and read them all.
Let's be honest. As awesome as Harry Potter is, I can't just read and reread it for the rest of my life. So I branched out. Here's what I read:
1. Who Stole my Cheese?
2. Fablehaven series
3. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief series
4. The Ranger's Apprentice series
5. The Prince and the Pauper
6. Women of Israel series
7. Butterfly Box series
ALL of these books were excellent - and as you can see, for many of them I read the whole series. Fablehaven was my favorite, with Percy Jackson and The Ranger's Apprentice right behind them. I'm mad at Orson Scott Card for not finishing the Women of Israel series, and I anxiously await the next Butterfly Box book.
In working on this goal, I rediscovered my absolute LOVE for reading! I don't read books. I devour them. I lose myself in the story, and I finish the book with a sense of slight surprise that I'm still in the real world. I become the characters I read about, and I have adventures, explore new lands, become excited and sad as do the characters.
"A good book should leave you... slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it. " I love that quote - and for me it's true. I needed a nap after finishing the great battle with Morgorath in the Ranger's Apprentice! Movies are great - but there's something special about entering the world of imagination contained within a book.
Let's be honest. As awesome as Harry Potter is, I can't just read and reread it for the rest of my life. So I branched out. Here's what I read:
1. Who Stole my Cheese?
2. Fablehaven series
3. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief series
4. The Ranger's Apprentice series
5. The Prince and the Pauper
6. Women of Israel series
7. Butterfly Box series
ALL of these books were excellent - and as you can see, for many of them I read the whole series. Fablehaven was my favorite, with Percy Jackson and The Ranger's Apprentice right behind them. I'm mad at Orson Scott Card for not finishing the Women of Israel series, and I anxiously await the next Butterfly Box book.
In working on this goal, I rediscovered my absolute LOVE for reading! I don't read books. I devour them. I lose myself in the story, and I finish the book with a sense of slight surprise that I'm still in the real world. I become the characters I read about, and I have adventures, explore new lands, become excited and sad as do the characters.
"A good book should leave you... slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading it. " I love that quote - and for me it's true. I needed a nap after finishing the great battle with Morgorath in the Ranger's Apprentice! Movies are great - but there's something special about entering the world of imagination contained within a book.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
We'll bring the world His truth
Incidentally, that's one of my very favorite songs. Just as a side note.
In the spirit of my recent contemplation of the power and joy that comes from missionary work, I was catching up on reading a mission blog, and I love this post here. I love hearing stories like this, and I'm happy for all the people in the world who have the opportunity to hear and accept the Gospel - because it holds the only source of true joy!
Viva la Vida.
In the spirit of my recent contemplation of the power and joy that comes from missionary work, I was catching up on reading a mission blog, and I love this post here. I love hearing stories like this, and I'm happy for all the people in the world who have the opportunity to hear and accept the Gospel - because it holds the only source of true joy!
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
True smiles
In the movie "Win a Date with Tad Hamilton," which a very good friend so kindly introduced me to, one of the characters describes another character's different smiles.
It made me think. Don't we all have different smiles?
The I'm irritated but trying to be nice smile.
The That was genuinely funny and I'm quite entertained smile.
The Will you hurry up and take this darn picture smile.
But on a more basic level, nearly everyone has at least two distinct smiles: the picture-taking smile and the spontaneous, truly happy or joyful smile.
I got to see one of the latter tonight, one that I hadn't seen in a long, long time. And that was the best moment out of a thousand million wonderful moments all strung together - and a moment I'm not likely to forget.
Viva la Vida.
It made me think. Don't we all have different smiles?
The I'm irritated but trying to be nice smile.
The That was genuinely funny and I'm quite entertained smile.
The Will you hurry up and take this darn picture smile.
But on a more basic level, nearly everyone has at least two distinct smiles: the picture-taking smile and the spontaneous, truly happy or joyful smile.
I got to see one of the latter tonight, one that I hadn't seen in a long, long time. And that was the best moment out of a thousand million wonderful moments all strung together - and a moment I'm not likely to forget.
Viva la Vida.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Why yes, I am on vacation
And yes, it is going fabulously. I'm having a blast. Life is good, although my feet are getting darn tired of being so USED all the time.
But that is not the purpose of this blog post. The vacation news will come at a later time. Maybe. If I feel like it.
The purpose of this post is simply to declare to all the world that missionary work is true. I don't think I've ever really thought about missionary work as much as I have in the past few days. At least, not in the way that I have. There are a number of things we could attribute that to, but we're simply going to attribute it to the time I've spent recently out in the missionary field.
For example. At church in Daytona Beach, a girl about my age, ish, got up and spoke in sacrament meeting. She told the story of her conversion two years previous, and the wonderful miracle it was that the missionaries arrived at her home at just the right time. She talked about the way she felt when she joined the church, the way that she feels now, and she shared her testimony.
And to me, it was the most beautiful thing.
Later, we had the opportunity to hear from the Orlando Mission President, who encouraged all of us to be member missionaries. I've heard a lot about this, yet I somehow seem to go glassy-eyed when they talk about it, thinking to myself, I don't need to do that - I live in Utah. Not so. It suddenly struck me, sitting there in that ward, that I might not live in Utah forever. Someday I might live in a ward that covers a huge land area, or in a branch, waiting anxiously to become a ward. I might live right out in the mission field, and when or if that day comes, I want to be ready.
And suddenly, missionary work means more to me and has become more personal to me than ever before. I love the Gospel with all my heart. It truly forms the core of my life, bringing meaning and color into everything I experience. I can't imagine my life without it, or without my relationship with my Savior.
Viva missionaries. All of them, all over the world - the ones I know, and the ones I don't know. They truly carry on the work of the Lord.
Viva la Vida.
But that is not the purpose of this blog post. The vacation news will come at a later time. Maybe. If I feel like it.
The purpose of this post is simply to declare to all the world that missionary work is true. I don't think I've ever really thought about missionary work as much as I have in the past few days. At least, not in the way that I have. There are a number of things we could attribute that to, but we're simply going to attribute it to the time I've spent recently out in the missionary field.
For example. At church in Daytona Beach, a girl about my age, ish, got up and spoke in sacrament meeting. She told the story of her conversion two years previous, and the wonderful miracle it was that the missionaries arrived at her home at just the right time. She talked about the way she felt when she joined the church, the way that she feels now, and she shared her testimony.
And to me, it was the most beautiful thing.
Later, we had the opportunity to hear from the Orlando Mission President, who encouraged all of us to be member missionaries. I've heard a lot about this, yet I somehow seem to go glassy-eyed when they talk about it, thinking to myself, I don't need to do that - I live in Utah. Not so. It suddenly struck me, sitting there in that ward, that I might not live in Utah forever. Someday I might live in a ward that covers a huge land area, or in a branch, waiting anxiously to become a ward. I might live right out in the mission field, and when or if that day comes, I want to be ready.
And suddenly, missionary work means more to me and has become more personal to me than ever before. I love the Gospel with all my heart. It truly forms the core of my life, bringing meaning and color into everything I experience. I can't imagine my life without it, or without my relationship with my Savior.
Viva missionaries. All of them, all over the world - the ones I know, and the ones I don't know. They truly carry on the work of the Lord.
Viva la Vida.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
June 11
- I didn't oversleep today. I got right up at 7am, even though it was Saturday. It felt good.
- A hot-air balloon floated right down the middle of our street today. I think hot air balloons are simply fabulous. So cheerful-looking!
- We went shopping for vacation items today. For some reason, I love filling my basket with random household items, so much more than I love filling it with clothing. I'm excited to someday have my own home to shop for.
- It was a beautiful, beautiful summer day - skies so blue you could fall right in.
- I have Harry Potter movie premiere tickets reserved. July 15 - right at midnight.
- My mom makes amazing chicken noodle soup. I want to be just like her when I grow up - if I ever grow up.
- I got my very last letter today. Just over two weeks now. It was a strange feeling, reading it. Just a normal letter - nothing different or extraordinary about it. But to add it to the packet of precious letters from the last two years and know that it was the last one - that was a strange feeling. It doesn't seem real. I don't think it will ever seem real, not until it happens. July will be a strange and beautiful and wonderful month.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Definitely not a feminist
An article in the Daily Universe today (which can be found here) expressed one girl's disgust of how female players on intramural sports teams receive twice as many points when they score than do the men. She claimed it was degrading and implied an attitude that the female players are inherently inferior to the male players. She thinks that they should all receive the same number of points, so that it's based purely on skill.
I guess I disagree.
Hey, look, I've just discovered I am NOT a feminist.
I think the rule is flattering. I think it demonstrates an even greater respect for the female players. I don't feel that it points out flaws or incompetence; I think it highlights their abilities and rewards them. I think it motivates them to do better, makes it easier for them to have fun even when playing with men who may have played sports much longer than they have, and I think it reflects a great attitude of respect and admiration for women, which should extend far past the sports arena into other areas of life.
Throughout history, women have been quietly moving in the background, doing great things without seeking fame or accolades for their actions. What's wrong with that? Why do we all have to be equal-in terms of the good and the bad? What's wrong with showing extra respect and generosity toward females, recognizing their unique capabilities and potential?
President Spencer W. Kimball stated, “To be a righteous woman is a glorious thing in any age. To be a righteous woman during the winding up scenes on this earth, before the second coming of our Savior, is an especially noble calling. The righteous woman’s strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times. She has been placed here to help to enrich, to protect, and to guard the home—which is society’s basic and most noble institution.”
I agree. And I want to do that ever so much more than I want worldly fame, recognition, or even total equality. Sure, I stand up against horrendous treatment of women; certainly I advocate respect and consideration. But complete equality? I don't think so. Let us all fulfill our different roles; and let us support and respect one another's unique and varied abilities.
I guess I disagree.
Hey, look, I've just discovered I am NOT a feminist.
I think the rule is flattering. I think it demonstrates an even greater respect for the female players. I don't feel that it points out flaws or incompetence; I think it highlights their abilities and rewards them. I think it motivates them to do better, makes it easier for them to have fun even when playing with men who may have played sports much longer than they have, and I think it reflects a great attitude of respect and admiration for women, which should extend far past the sports arena into other areas of life.
Throughout history, women have been quietly moving in the background, doing great things without seeking fame or accolades for their actions. What's wrong with that? Why do we all have to be equal-in terms of the good and the bad? What's wrong with showing extra respect and generosity toward females, recognizing their unique capabilities and potential?
President Spencer W. Kimball stated, “To be a righteous woman is a glorious thing in any age. To be a righteous woman during the winding up scenes on this earth, before the second coming of our Savior, is an especially noble calling. The righteous woman’s strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times. She has been placed here to help to enrich, to protect, and to guard the home—which is society’s basic and most noble institution.”
I agree. And I want to do that ever so much more than I want worldly fame, recognition, or even total equality. Sure, I stand up against horrendous treatment of women; certainly I advocate respect and consideration. But complete equality? I don't think so. Let us all fulfill our different roles; and let us support and respect one another's unique and varied abilities.
Monday, June 6, 2011
English class quotes...
"...because when I say, 'Hey Laren, you look nice today,' I'm really saying, 'Laren, I just want to lick you and I'm so sad that I can't!'"
"I like big numbers and I cannot lie! Those little ones can't deny! When a number walks in and puts the figure in your face!-" - "Whoa whoa whoa, Patrick, stop right there!"
"Oh... oh... oh CUSS!!!"
I love small spring term classes... :)
"I like big numbers and I cannot lie! Those little ones can't deny! When a number walks in and puts the figure in your face!-" - "Whoa whoa whoa, Patrick, stop right there!"
"Oh... oh... oh CUSS!!!"
I love small spring term classes... :)
Friday, June 3, 2011
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Things I love about today
1. I'm going to the temple this evening!
2. Only 15 days until vacation.
3. Vacation is going to include Disney, Harry Potter, beaches, and famous history.
4. My french braid is straight and not lumpy, for like, the first time ever.
5. It's sunny outside.
6. I got to go to Institute last night with Krystal.
7. I still have two weeks left of having my own computer at work.
8. All of the new freshmen have FINALLY submitted their decisions.
9. There's a bag of m&m's in my drawer.
10. My mom made my breakfast.
11. I'm going to Idaho this weekend!
12. Israeli dance in folk dance this afternoon :)
13. It's June...
2. Only 15 days until vacation.
3. Vacation is going to include Disney, Harry Potter, beaches, and famous history.
4. My french braid is straight and not lumpy, for like, the first time ever.
5. It's sunny outside.
6. I got to go to Institute last night with Krystal.
7. I still have two weeks left of having my own computer at work.
8. All of the new freshmen have FINALLY submitted their decisions.
9. There's a bag of m&m's in my drawer.
10. My mom made my breakfast.
11. I'm going to Idaho this weekend!
12. Israeli dance in folk dance this afternoon :)
13. It's June...
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Competitive streak...
Sometimes I like to challenge myself. Especially with things I really love.
Like clogging, for example. I only ever made the All-American team once. And that was after three years of trying. But after making it, I was so excited. So the following year, when I again didn't make it, I was disappointed, and vowed that the next year I would work so hard that I'd make it. In the same spirit, at Nationals I came in second - barely - in acapella to a guy who I'd consistently come in second place to. I vowed that the next year I would beat him, too, and I went straight home and started brainstorming a new acappella. Not to mention, from the very first day that I started clogging, I vowed that I would someday be on the highest team in the studio.
Only I had to leave clogging before I made it to the next Nationals. I didn't get to try for either of those things. And I never quite made it to the highest team, something that had been a huge goal for me for seven years.
Maybe that's why I can't seem to feel settled about clogging. I have unresolved challenges to myself hanging over my head.
Do you ever have things like that - where you feel unfinished and incomplete, but there's just not a way to go back and finish it?
Like clogging, for example. I only ever made the All-American team once. And that was after three years of trying. But after making it, I was so excited. So the following year, when I again didn't make it, I was disappointed, and vowed that the next year I would work so hard that I'd make it. In the same spirit, at Nationals I came in second - barely - in acapella to a guy who I'd consistently come in second place to. I vowed that the next year I would beat him, too, and I went straight home and started brainstorming a new acappella. Not to mention, from the very first day that I started clogging, I vowed that I would someday be on the highest team in the studio.
Only I had to leave clogging before I made it to the next Nationals. I didn't get to try for either of those things. And I never quite made it to the highest team, something that had been a huge goal for me for seven years.
Maybe that's why I can't seem to feel settled about clogging. I have unresolved challenges to myself hanging over my head.
Do you ever have things like that - where you feel unfinished and incomplete, but there's just not a way to go back and finish it?
Friday, May 20, 2011
Cake adventures
Cake making - success! Snoopy turned out marvelously, as did the gnome's wonderland, complete with adorable rock people :)Next project? Maybe :) Maybe even in cake form. We'll see what I'm in the mood for in a couple weeks once we recuperate from the sugar overload!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Twenty-one
* Cake decorating party to make an awesome Snoopy birthday cake.
* New sewing machine from my awesome mom! I'm so excited for all the possibilities :)
* Beating my dad at basketball at the games center.
* Package from Spain. Only a month and a half left...
* Harry Potter midnight premiere coming up with my best friend... :)
* Cupcakes with Spain friends coming up.
Twenty-one doesn't feel much different than twenty, especially since all during twenty I continued to accidentally introduce myself as nineteen, so I imagine I'll probably still introduce myself as nineteen, it's been a hard habit to break...
It's funny, though. When I think twenty-one, the first thing I think of is sitting in AP Spanish three and a half years ago, and Mr. Macdonald exclaiming, "Veinti-un años! Veinti-un años!" It was his belief that all dating-related activities should wait until we were twenty-one. It seemed pretty far away at seventeen. Now I wonder where the time went.
Life goes by so fast!
Viva la Vida.
* New sewing machine from my awesome mom! I'm so excited for all the possibilities :)
* Beating my dad at basketball at the games center.
* Package from Spain. Only a month and a half left...
* Harry Potter midnight premiere coming up with my best friend... :)
* Cupcakes with Spain friends coming up.
Twenty-one doesn't feel much different than twenty, especially since all during twenty I continued to accidentally introduce myself as nineteen, so I imagine I'll probably still introduce myself as nineteen, it's been a hard habit to break...
It's funny, though. When I think twenty-one, the first thing I think of is sitting in AP Spanish three and a half years ago, and Mr. Macdonald exclaiming, "Veinti-un años! Veinti-un años!" It was his belief that all dating-related activities should wait until we were twenty-one. It seemed pretty far away at seventeen. Now I wonder where the time went.
Life goes by so fast!
Viva la Vida.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Let them eat cake!
New goal on my 101 list (revisions allowed, right? I mean, after all, 1001 days is a long time... and my interests change like... daily... haha) MAKE THESE:
I want to make cakes. Beautiful cakes. I'm sure the first few will be total flops. That's okay. I'll bring the extras to work with me. :)
Anyone know of a good cake-decorating class in the area?
I want to make cakes. Beautiful cakes. I'm sure the first few will be total flops. That's okay. I'll bring the extras to work with me. :)
Anyone know of a good cake-decorating class in the area?
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Impatience
Yesterday was a long day. But when I got home, there was a big, fat envelope in the mailbox! And yes, it came from Spain :)
So I tore it open.
And inside were four little packages, wrapped in newspaper, and a card in an envelope.
And it said, "Do not open until your birthday."
My birthday is still six days away. So the little packages are sitting on my desk in my room. Staring at me. Begging me to open them.
*sigh... *
So I tore it open.
And inside were four little packages, wrapped in newspaper, and a card in an envelope.
And it said, "Do not open until your birthday."
My birthday is still six days away. So the little packages are sitting on my desk in my room. Staring at me. Begging me to open them.
*sigh... *
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Live Mindfully
New mantra.
Here's a question: How many of you can remember who you talked to first this morning? Where were you? How many people passed by you while you were conversing? What color were the other person's eyes? What did you talk about? What was the other person wearing?
What color are the mountains? How many colors? Could you sketch from memory the basic shapes of them?
How did you get to _____ this morning? Did you pass any people? How many of them were talking on phones? Were there birds chirping? How many different kinds of trees did you pass, or were they all the same?
Flowers are popping out all over campus. Stop and look at one. REALLY look at it. What do you see? How many colors? How many parts? What shape are they?
So much of life is spent rushing from place to place, constantly "doing" and never seeing, hearing, noticing whatever is around us. The Buddhist view is that we must live mindfully, for this is all there is to life. While I certainly don't believe that, I agree that I spend much of my time focused on the future, either close or distant, and I miss the moments happening all around me.
My challenge to myself is to be where I am. Really be there. To really see people when I look at them, to really experience my surroundings. It's not that hard with a little practice, but it adds ever so much depth and beauty and meaning to life.
Live mindfully.
Viva la Vida.
Here's a question: How many of you can remember who you talked to first this morning? Where were you? How many people passed by you while you were conversing? What color were the other person's eyes? What did you talk about? What was the other person wearing?
What color are the mountains? How many colors? Could you sketch from memory the basic shapes of them?
How did you get to
Flowers are popping out all over campus. Stop and look at one. REALLY look at it. What do you see? How many colors? How many parts? What shape are they?
So much of life is spent rushing from place to place, constantly "doing" and never seeing, hearing, noticing whatever is around us. The Buddhist view is that we must live mindfully, for this is all there is to life. While I certainly don't believe that, I agree that I spend much of my time focused on the future, either close or distant, and I miss the moments happening all around me.
My challenge to myself is to be where I am. Really be there. To really see people when I look at them, to really experience my surroundings. It's not that hard with a little practice, but it adds ever so much depth and beauty and meaning to life.
Live mindfully.
Viva la Vida.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Regretting.
I saw someone tonight that I haven't talked to in six years.
The last time we did talk, I broke his heart in the middle of the sophomore hall.
It's silly now - heck, I wasn't even sixteen years old yet, and it was just high school drama. But the way that he was never anything but nice to me, and yet I treated him like a worn-out pair of shoes, that has stuck with me for six years. So I saw him tonight at a party. I looked over at him a few times, but, I'm ashamed to say, I was still too embarrassed and self-conscious to say a word. I'm sure by now he really couldn't care less - it was two months in 10th grade, and he probably laughs about it now. But it still haunts me, and I'm terribly embarrassed of how self-centered and inconsiderate I was.
It leaves me thinking "now what?" I don't know how to contact him except maybe through Facebook, and even if I did, it would seem ridiculous to apologize after all this time. But it would make me feel better.
There are only a few things in life that I truly regret. That moment and the way I acted is one of them. To him, I'm sorry for the hurt I caused him, however small or silly it seems now. Live and learn, right?
The last time we did talk, I broke his heart in the middle of the sophomore hall.
It's silly now - heck, I wasn't even sixteen years old yet, and it was just high school drama. But the way that he was never anything but nice to me, and yet I treated him like a worn-out pair of shoes, that has stuck with me for six years. So I saw him tonight at a party. I looked over at him a few times, but, I'm ashamed to say, I was still too embarrassed and self-conscious to say a word. I'm sure by now he really couldn't care less - it was two months in 10th grade, and he probably laughs about it now. But it still haunts me, and I'm terribly embarrassed of how self-centered and inconsiderate I was.
It leaves me thinking "now what?" I don't know how to contact him except maybe through Facebook, and even if I did, it would seem ridiculous to apologize after all this time. But it would make me feel better.
There are only a few things in life that I truly regret. That moment and the way I acted is one of them. To him, I'm sorry for the hurt I caused him, however small or silly it seems now. Live and learn, right?
Why I love my job...
Father on phone: "So my daughter wants to go to college in the fall. She's been accepted to five universities, but she wants to go to a college that wants her badly enough to give her a full ride scholarship... but she forgot to apply for university scholarships and she didn't audition for the School of Music, but she'd like to come."
Me: "Well... the auditions were four months ago... and all our scholarships were awarded in March, so at this point there's not very much that we can do, the funds have already been awarded."
(conversation goes on)
Later:
Father: "Well. So. Do you have a music scholarship there?"
Me: "Well, I'm not a music student, but I do have a scholarship for my program."
Father (accusingly): "So how did you get yours?"
Me: "Well, for continuing students it's based off GPA."
Father (still accusingly): "So have you had yours for the whole time you've been here?"
Me: "No... Have you talked to the Financial Aid office yet?"
We love those dear, dear "helicopter" parents...
Me: "Well... the auditions were four months ago... and all our scholarships were awarded in March, so at this point there's not very much that we can do, the funds have already been awarded."
(conversation goes on)
Later:
Father: "Well. So. Do you have a music scholarship there?"
Me: "Well, I'm not a music student, but I do have a scholarship for my program."
Father (accusingly): "So how did you get yours?"
Me: "Well, for continuing students it's based off GPA."
Father (still accusingly): "So have you had yours for the whole time you've been here?"
Me: "No... Have you talked to the Financial Aid office yet?"
We love those dear, dear "helicopter" parents...
Day Zero #100
#100 - Get a scholarship
Do you believe in miracles?
I do.
When I found out I was getting a full tuition scholarship last year, I can't even describe how blessed I felt. With the cost of my study abroad, it was really a miracle. I hardly dared hope for another miracle this year. It sounded too good to be true.
But it wasn't.
I am so very grateful to the wonderful men and women who choose to contribute to the scholarship fund, so that students like myself who work as hard as they can but still don't have enough can still get an education, participate in things like dance teams or orchestras or study abroad programs, so that the realm of opportunities isn't smaller for those who don't have very many financial resources.
Someday I want to start my own scholarship fund. I want to be the means of providing miracles to other people - because I think it's the most wonderful feeling in the world.
Do you believe in miracles?
I do.
When I found out I was getting a full tuition scholarship last year, I can't even describe how blessed I felt. With the cost of my study abroad, it was really a miracle. I hardly dared hope for another miracle this year. It sounded too good to be true.
But it wasn't.
I am so very grateful to the wonderful men and women who choose to contribute to the scholarship fund, so that students like myself who work as hard as they can but still don't have enough can still get an education, participate in things like dance teams or orchestras or study abroad programs, so that the realm of opportunities isn't smaller for those who don't have very many financial resources.
Someday I want to start my own scholarship fund. I want to be the means of providing miracles to other people - because I think it's the most wonderful feeling in the world.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Day Zero: #5, #9, #44, #69, #71
#5 - Give away a pass-along card
I did this in Spain as well, but have neglected to check it off the list. The day that Melanie and I left for the Canary Islands, I left chocolate and pass-along cards for the two Italian girls who were also living with Pilar at the time. They were both such nice girls and we had talked about life in Utah, church dances, dating, and other sorts of things, and I had woken up that morning with a strong impression to not leave without telling them what I knew. I don't know if anything will come of it, but it was a good feeling to receive an impression and follow through on it.
#9 - Write in my journal at least 3 times a week for three months
This was not very hard - I love to write. Check!
#44 - Be on the BYU Folk Dance Team
I've blogged about this before - but folk dance this past semester was AMAZING! :) I've been invited to "Workshop" at the end of the summer - which is three days of intensive folk dance, at the end of which they'll assign you a team based on how well you did. I'm excited to dance all day!
#69 - Sew a skirt
At first this goal was "Learn how to sew clothing" but I opted to change that to make it less stressful - it was causing me grief. I enjoy sewing, but I have to take it at a slow pace, since I don't have a lot of patience. However, the straight skirt turned out well - I actually wear it! I also revised a swimsuit, am working on an apron (still!) and am contemplating another skirt style. I'll post pictures - someday.
#71 - Floss every night for a month
Dentist's orders. It was hard not to forget a night here and there - but my teeth have never been quite so happy... maybe, with a little diligence, I can beat my poor dental genetics.
Upcoming goals: recipe sharing, book recommendation reading, tie-dyeing, and more!
I did this in Spain as well, but have neglected to check it off the list. The day that Melanie and I left for the Canary Islands, I left chocolate and pass-along cards for the two Italian girls who were also living with Pilar at the time. They were both such nice girls and we had talked about life in Utah, church dances, dating, and other sorts of things, and I had woken up that morning with a strong impression to not leave without telling them what I knew. I don't know if anything will come of it, but it was a good feeling to receive an impression and follow through on it.
#9 - Write in my journal at least 3 times a week for three months
This was not very hard - I love to write. Check!
#44 - Be on the BYU Folk Dance Team
I've blogged about this before - but folk dance this past semester was AMAZING! :) I've been invited to "Workshop" at the end of the summer - which is three days of intensive folk dance, at the end of which they'll assign you a team based on how well you did. I'm excited to dance all day!
#69 - Sew a skirt
At first this goal was "Learn how to sew clothing" but I opted to change that to make it less stressful - it was causing me grief. I enjoy sewing, but I have to take it at a slow pace, since I don't have a lot of patience. However, the straight skirt turned out well - I actually wear it! I also revised a swimsuit, am working on an apron (still!) and am contemplating another skirt style. I'll post pictures - someday.
#71 - Floss every night for a month
Dentist's orders. It was hard not to forget a night here and there - but my teeth have never been quite so happy... maybe, with a little diligence, I can beat my poor dental genetics.
Upcoming goals: recipe sharing, book recommendation reading, tie-dyeing, and more!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Ready for spring
Yesterday was my last free day before spring classes start (sad day! although spring classes will be awesome, too.) Lots of good things happened:
- After much deliberating and shirking and dragging my feet, I finally signed a housing contract for fall - in the very same apartment I lived in last year - hehe. I liked it there. It was admittedly less fun to arrange considering I'll be starting over fresh with new roommates (since all the old ones have abandoned me for marriage or missions... growl) :D but hey, it will be a great adventure!
- Sewing success! This makes me happy beyond words, considering the epic Skirt Disaster or Apron Pocket Disaster or Pile of Unfinished Projects disaster. But, I am happy to report, the swimsuit top is now unique, attractive, and most of all, MODEST (hooray) and not to mention, the straps are the same width and length and the seams are straight (mostly) so I call that success!
- National Treasure 2. Other than Harry Potter, what better way to spend your last free afternoon than watching Ben and Abigail discover a giant golden city buried deep beneath Mount Rushmore? Seriously. Nothing tops it.
- And finally, library books! For all the free time I probably won't have :)
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Confessions of an obsessed muggle...
I am secretly obsessed with these...
Okay, well, it's not really a secret. AT ALL. I'm completely obsessed. I just finished reading the entire series for the seventh or eighth time yesterday. And THESE came in the mail yesterday to complete my movie collection!
I have 7.15.2011 circled in red on my calendar - the day the final movie is released. It all ends then!
Okay, well, it's not really a secret. AT ALL. I'm completely obsessed. I just finished reading the entire series for the seventh or eighth time yesterday. And THESE came in the mail yesterday to complete my movie collection!
I have 7.15.2011 circled in red on my calendar - the day the final movie is released. It all ends then!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
It was the best of times...
I am officially more than halfway done with my college education. It's rather a crazy thought. I took my last final, sold back a textbook, and walked away from winter 2011. Strange how time passes, dragging tediously on, yet in a flash it's over. The sheer number of words I've typed in the last four months is staggering, the things I've done, people I've met, experiences I've had... okay, enough silliness, WINTER SEMESTER IS OVER!!!!! HOORAY!!!! hehe :)
Still, though, with the excitement comes a twinge of nervous fright for the future - because suddenly life is flying forward at breakneck speed, and there's no stopping it, no backing up, no reverse, no rewind, no re-doing of missed moments. Sometimes in a quiet moment my thoughts catch me off guard, the sudden lurch of fear that I'm wasting time, that I'm missing the fullness of happiness and success that could be mine. I panic a moment and zoom through a mental checklist to make sure I'm still focused on the essentials. Living day to day, it's a big deal, waking, breathing, feeling, experiencing all the joy and beauty that this life has to offer.
But when a bird tweets happily outside my window, the smell of rain or of freshly-mown grass, a carpet of snow covering the ground, or even just the warmth of the sun on my face, I pause for a moment on my quest for success and perfection and think, now this, this is heaven. Life is a sweet, sweet thing.
Viva la Vida.
Still, though, with the excitement comes a twinge of nervous fright for the future - because suddenly life is flying forward at breakneck speed, and there's no stopping it, no backing up, no reverse, no rewind, no re-doing of missed moments. Sometimes in a quiet moment my thoughts catch me off guard, the sudden lurch of fear that I'm wasting time, that I'm missing the fullness of happiness and success that could be mine. I panic a moment and zoom through a mental checklist to make sure I'm still focused on the essentials. Living day to day, it's a big deal, waking, breathing, feeling, experiencing all the joy and beauty that this life has to offer.
But when a bird tweets happily outside my window, the smell of rain or of freshly-mown grass, a carpet of snow covering the ground, or even just the warmth of the sun on my face, I pause for a moment on my quest for success and perfection and think, now this, this is heaven. Life is a sweet, sweet thing.
Viva la Vida.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Distracting myself...
I got this off my friend's blog. Make sure your volume is up (no worries, it's just music).
http://seawitchery.tumblr.com/post/4070384205/i-started-out-clicking-strategically-and-by-the
http://seawitchery.tumblr.com/post/4070384205/i-started-out-clicking-strategically-and-by-the
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Day Zero: #31
I realize it's months after the fact, but I crossed another Day Zero goal off my list while in Spain. Our hotel in the Canary Islands had a beautiful swimming pool, and one sunny afternoon Melanie and Carina tried to teach me how to swim (properly). I have this thing about accidentally inhaling half the pool when I try to swim, but I gave it my best shot, so, even though I'm not much better than I was before, I think I'll count it. Hey, I can get around just fine - earlier that day we had gone down to the beach with McKay and swum out into the ocean, out to the end of the rocks that extended out into the bay. I don't know how deep the water was... I don't really want to know... but I didn't drown, so we're going to call the swimming goal good and cross it off the list. :)
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Decision...
One the one hand: Friends, cold apartment, possible ants, and a full year contract to have to sell part of.
On the other hand: Strangers, probably warm apartment, probably no ants, and not having to sell the contract, barring life changes.
So. Is living with people who are already sort of my friends worth it? How the heck to decide?
On the other hand: Strangers, probably warm apartment, probably no ants, and not having to sell the contract, barring life changes.
So. Is living with people who are already sort of my friends worth it? How the heck to decide?
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Folk dance feeling
It happened on the last dance, the one from Macedonia (I think) where everyone holds hands and sings from their hearts. And suddenly I looked around at all the people in the big, long line, the strangers on either side of me, the PAC and SPAC and WDS and 10Wilk Pirates and 8Wilk and 2RB and my own teammates from 9Wilk Laloemileelo, and I just wanted to hug all of them. There's a special feeling that comes from dancing for two hours in a hot, sweaty room, where you can't even understand the words to the songs, and your legs hurt, and there's a long line for the drinking fountain, but you dance hard, and you dance from your heart. There's something special about that, something you can't quite put into words. It's like family, even though you don't even know everyone's names or anything about them. For a minute all the team cliques broke, and we were all folk dancers, all celebrating our chance to share feelings in our hearts through dance. It was the most beautiful moment, and it left a warm feeling in my heart that just won't go away.
I'm so blessed to be a member of the International Folk Dance Ensemble. This has been one of the most amazing experiences of my time in college, and I'm so so glad I have four more semesters to enjoy it even more!
Viva la vida... and don't forget to DANCE!
I'm so blessed to be a member of the International Folk Dance Ensemble. This has been one of the most amazing experiences of my time in college, and I'm so so glad I have four more semesters to enjoy it even more!
Viva la vida... and don't forget to DANCE!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Trapped
Do you ever feel like your life is run by the requirement to always make the most practical and logical decision in every situation, whether it's what you really want to do or not?
I do.
Sometimes I feel like Rapunzel in Tangled, trapped in a tower of my own making, a tower made by the little voice in my head that won't let me do anything that doesn't lead straight to the practical, efficient, logical life I have planned out for myself. No surprises. No major bumps. Prepared for anything. No impulsive decisions, making decisions on whims, or following my heart allowed if it contradicts the life plan and schedule I have.
So it's a fight between the two sides of me: do the practical thing, be prepared, be logical, or take risks, chase dreams, follow whims. Where is the balance?
I feel like I'm forty years old with the weight of my whole life riding on every single decision I make.
I do.
Sometimes I feel like Rapunzel in Tangled, trapped in a tower of my own making, a tower made by the little voice in my head that won't let me do anything that doesn't lead straight to the practical, efficient, logical life I have planned out for myself. No surprises. No major bumps. Prepared for anything. No impulsive decisions, making decisions on whims, or following my heart allowed if it contradicts the life plan and schedule I have.
So it's a fight between the two sides of me: do the practical thing, be prepared, be logical, or take risks, chase dreams, follow whims. Where is the balance?
I feel like I'm forty years old with the weight of my whole life riding on every single decision I make.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The joy of scheduling...
So I'm trying to figure out how to not go crazy next fall semester, so that I'm less busy, have more time for homework, more time for other activities, and less stress all around.
Unfortunately, a solution is eluding me. Between a disappointing lack of happiness in the class offerings, the necessity of working 20 hours a week, my desire to keep trying to pay off my student loans before I graduate, taking dance classes that are low in credit hours... between all that, it's a hopeless cause.
I don't want to graduate, because then a) I have to stop folk dancing, b) my loans start accumulating interest, and c) I have to be a real person... But looking forward to semesters like this makes me awfully anxious to wear that cap and gown.
Unfortunately, a solution is eluding me. Between a disappointing lack of happiness in the class offerings, the necessity of working 20 hours a week, my desire to keep trying to pay off my student loans before I graduate, taking dance classes that are low in credit hours... between all that, it's a hopeless cause.
I don't want to graduate, because then a) I have to stop folk dancing, b) my loans start accumulating interest, and c) I have to be a real person... But looking forward to semesters like this makes me awfully anxious to wear that cap and gown.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Ten Things to be thankful for
1. My family. I love them more than anything, and I am who I am today because of them.
2. My best friend, who is currently on a mission. He's amazing, and I'm so happy at how wonderful of a person and missionary he is.
3. Springtime. I love the warmer weather, and just sitting in the grass and looking at the flowers make life worthwhile.
4. Music. Especially inspirational music. It lifts my spirit when nothing else works.
5. The scriptures. There is peace and comfort in the scriptures for any challenge or trial. The Lord really does speak through the scriptures.
6. Fruit. I've never appreciated a sweet, crunchy apple as much as I did today.
7. The Atonement. It gives me the knowledge that Someone has gone before, and with His help, I can overcome anything.
8. Neighbors. Especially the ones that you know will be there, and you can rely on them, no matter what.
9. Friends. It's not about what you do, or what you get in this life, it's about the relationships you build along the way. I hope my friends know how much they mean to me, and if they don't, I hope I continue to show them.
10. Life. It's the greatest, most beautiful blessing I've ever been given, and I suddenly realize how short, how fragile, how precious it is. Live your life. Don't ever waste a moment of it. You never, ever know how much time you have left, and when my time comes, in those last moments when my life flashes before my eyes, I want to see it and smile, knowing that I did my best, and I really, truly lived.
Viva la Vida.
2. My best friend, who is currently on a mission. He's amazing, and I'm so happy at how wonderful of a person and missionary he is.
3. Springtime. I love the warmer weather, and just sitting in the grass and looking at the flowers make life worthwhile.
4. Music. Especially inspirational music. It lifts my spirit when nothing else works.
5. The scriptures. There is peace and comfort in the scriptures for any challenge or trial. The Lord really does speak through the scriptures.
6. Fruit. I've never appreciated a sweet, crunchy apple as much as I did today.
7. The Atonement. It gives me the knowledge that Someone has gone before, and with His help, I can overcome anything.
8. Neighbors. Especially the ones that you know will be there, and you can rely on them, no matter what.
9. Friends. It's not about what you do, or what you get in this life, it's about the relationships you build along the way. I hope my friends know how much they mean to me, and if they don't, I hope I continue to show them.
10. Life. It's the greatest, most beautiful blessing I've ever been given, and I suddenly realize how short, how fragile, how precious it is. Live your life. Don't ever waste a moment of it. You never, ever know how much time you have left, and when my time comes, in those last moments when my life flashes before my eyes, I want to see it and smile, knowing that I did my best, and I really, truly lived.
Viva la Vida.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Book review bashing
So can I just say, that the simple, 4-page book review for my doctrine and covenants class has turned into a giant, 4-page nightmare, because as it turns out, I'm an excellent summary writer, and the analysis is somewhat elusive, I mean, really, how am I supposed to analyze something without summarizing? Despite the seventeen-slide powerpoint on how to write an analytical book review in a concise and precise manner, I find myself sitting at my computer for over two hours, typing out sentences and promptly erasing them, and finally packing up and heading home, frustrated, annoyed, and overall feeling like I wasted the whole night, and even as I pick up my backpack, I'm still tempted to sit back down at the computer and start again, because tonight was the night to write this darn thing, not to sit and start it over and over again.
agggggggghhhhhhhh!
agggggggghhhhhhhh!
Cooking creations: Easy Chili
Easy chili
- 1 can Western Family Natural Directions chili beans (sold at Macey's for about $1) or any other generic can of plain chili beans
- 1 can petite diced tomatoes
- 1/3 packet Lawry's Chili Seasoning (also sold at Macey's) or you can experiment with other chili flavorings, but this one is the best!
Mix together in pan, heat to warm, and EAT! Serves 2.
Meat variation: Brown a little bit of hamburger in a frying pan and add it - as much as you want.
- 1 can Western Family Natural Directions chili beans (sold at Macey's for about $1) or any other generic can of plain chili beans
- 1 can petite diced tomatoes
- 1/3 packet Lawry's Chili Seasoning (also sold at Macey's) or you can experiment with other chili flavorings, but this one is the best!
Mix together in pan, heat to warm, and EAT! Serves 2.
Meat variation: Brown a little bit of hamburger in a frying pan and add it - as much as you want.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Too much Honor?
Anyone who is anyone in Utah has heard about the current controversy over the basketball team. Brandon Davies, one of the top three players on our team, broke the Honor Code. He was dismissed from the team right at the end of the regular season, just when BYU was doing so well and was looking forward to a bright future in the playoffs, which diminished, if not destroyed, their chances at the success they had been anticipating.
Some have said this was a stupid, foolish move. BYU stood to gain national fame, not to mention money and reputation, in the playoffs this year. This was a chance that the team members would never have again. Why, then, would they do something like this, right at the end of the season? People have said that they should have waited - delayed the punishment, let him play until the end of the season, keep it quiet for now, wait until the pressure was off.
How is this any different from the view in the scriptures that God will "beat us with a few stripes" and then quickly forgive us? The scriptures clearly indicate that this is wrong. The Lord doesn't tolerate sin, and it doesn't matter the circumstances, not even if there's a national championship riding on it.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that Brandon Davies can't be forgiven. I feel immensely sorry for him, and I imagine that he's suffering huge amounts of embarrassment and regret over his actions, especially considering the way it's affected so many people, including his teammates. I don't even pretend to call judgment on him or in any way condemn or pardon him - that is not my place. I simply wonder why people seem to think that avoiding, postponing, or evading the established consequences of breaking the Honor Code at BYU should happen in this situation. Essentially, they think an "exception" should have been made in his case. Why should there be an exception to honor; an exception to integrity? Does that not diminish the very integrity that the Honor Code exists to encourage?
I have never been quite as proud of BYU as I have been the last week. We have showed the world that there are more important things in life than winning, money, and fame. I support Coach Rose's decision, and am proud to be ridiculed for having "too much Honor."
President Hinckley summed it up in a talk here on campus a number of years ago:
"In all this world there is no substitute for personal integrity. It includes honor. It includes performance. It includes keeping one's word. It includes doing what is right regardless of the circumstances."
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