Friday, January 23, 2009
Happy Birthday Dad!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
I Have OCD...sort of
I have decided I have OCD. I found a picture that explains my OCD diagnosis....
I just finished reading the fourth Twilight book and want more. Besides Harry Potter, I haven't been this obsessed about a series of books for a long time. I read all four books within about a month. I wasn't as big of a fan of the movie. I liked it but it was different from the book...not as much about relationships as about the vampire aspect. I only saw it once so maybe I should see it again before I make my final decision. Anyhoo. For those of you who have read it, I'm sure you understand. For those of you who haven't, I suggest you do. It is a good time. I'm trying to convince Michael to read the books with me. We read the last few Harry Potter books together and that was a lot of fun. Happy reading!
I just finished reading the fourth Twilight book and want more. Besides Harry Potter, I haven't been this obsessed about a series of books for a long time. I read all four books within about a month. I wasn't as big of a fan of the movie. I liked it but it was different from the book...not as much about relationships as about the vampire aspect. I only saw it once so maybe I should see it again before I make my final decision. Anyhoo. For those of you who have read it, I'm sure you understand. For those of you who haven't, I suggest you do. It is a good time. I'm trying to convince Michael to read the books with me. We read the last few Harry Potter books together and that was a lot of fun. Happy reading!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Hello Again...Hello...
Okay. So I have been MIA from the blogging world again. I've had lots going on over the last month or two, most of it good, some not so good. We went to Colorado for Thanksgiving. It was fun to spend time with Michael's family. They are good people. They always show us a good time and are so generous and kind to us. In December we had family in town, which has been a good time. We also had a surprise 65th birthday party for my Mom which was a lot of fun. She was so surprised. It was awesome! We were in Utah for Christmas which was nice. It was great to have Nikki, Alif and Justin here this year. I had to work for part of the day but was still able to enjoy being with family and celebrating the day. I will be posting pictures of all of the above events as soon as I can and I'll add more tid bits and fun info from each. So don't fret. :]
As for the bad...I had another miscarriage. It happened this last Wednesday. I sent the following message to a close friend of mine and I decided instead of typing it all out again, I would just post what I wrote to her. I feel it expresses what I have been going through. In reading this, please don't think bad of me. I was just being honest with how I felt. Sorry if the details are too much for you regarding the miscarriage. Here goes:
"...I had another miscarriage. I was 5 1/2 weeks this time. Not as far along as last time but it still sucks. I went in for an ultrasound on Thursday to confirm the miscarriage, to make sure it wasn't an ectopic pregnancy, that I'm not bleeding internally, that I don't have endometriosis and that I don't have any cysts. All is clear and I don't need a D and C, which is good. It will all pass on its own. But it also confirmed that it happened, which sucks.
It's been 2 years of trying and 2 miscarriages. I know it will happen someday but it's still hard to see everyone around me having babies when they aren't even trying, and in one of my friends cases, don't even want them. Then there is me...all I've ever wanted to be in life is a wife and a mom. But the mom thing just isn't happening for me yet. I know it will and I'm trying to be patient and leave it all in the Lord's hands. The deep ache is there in my heart but I can't allow myself to sink into the depression that I went through after the last one. We cannot financially afford for me to not be able to function and to work. Life will go on and so must I. I do feel a bit better equipt emotionally to deal with it this time. I wasn't as sick as last time nor as shocked at it happening. Michael gave me a blessing and I do feel peace and I know the Lord is mindful of my situation and will bless me with all my hearts righteous desires in His time. I just have to be patient and faithful.
When it started to happen I felt at peace and that all would be okay. I think I became a bit more worried this time about the future possibilities and things that may go wrong because I got a call while I was on my way to have the ultrasound from a friend of mine who has had some of the same problems as I have. She is having a either a partial or full hysterectomy in a couple of weeks. They won't know until she goes in for surgery. We both have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and have had ruptured cysts and miscarriages along with other health issues. It really freaked me out but I felt a bit better after the ultrasound confirmed I was okay. I realized things could be a lot worse for me and I should be grateful for that. I will be okay. It's just hard. But I will triumph over this one way or the other. I really try not to compare my sorrows and trials with others and I usually can separate my sorrow from others happiness. I am truly happy for those who are blessed with babies and I know I will be one of those people. My patriarchial blessing promises me that I will. I'm just having an off day. I guess I am allowed. I forget that sometimes. :] ..."
I know I am not a lone reed in this sad tale. I have many a friend who have had miscarriages and lost babies. Several of you, my faithful readers, have been there. It is never easy but I know it doesn't have to cripple us. I went through it once and eventually triumphed over my sadness. I know I can do it again. It's amazing how much stronger you can become and how your ability to deal with things can increase. I am seeing that in myself first hand. I have definitely felt the healing touch of my Master's Hand these last days. The atonement is such a wonderful thing. I can tell you I know it is for more than those dumb sins we commit. It can heal hearts and soften our sorrows if we will only ask.
Thanks for listening. Love to all!
As for the bad...I had another miscarriage. It happened this last Wednesday. I sent the following message to a close friend of mine and I decided instead of typing it all out again, I would just post what I wrote to her. I feel it expresses what I have been going through. In reading this, please don't think bad of me. I was just being honest with how I felt. Sorry if the details are too much for you regarding the miscarriage. Here goes:
"...I had another miscarriage. I was 5 1/2 weeks this time. Not as far along as last time but it still sucks. I went in for an ultrasound on Thursday to confirm the miscarriage, to make sure it wasn't an ectopic pregnancy, that I'm not bleeding internally, that I don't have endometriosis and that I don't have any cysts. All is clear and I don't need a D and C, which is good. It will all pass on its own. But it also confirmed that it happened, which sucks.
It's been 2 years of trying and 2 miscarriages. I know it will happen someday but it's still hard to see everyone around me having babies when they aren't even trying, and in one of my friends cases, don't even want them. Then there is me...all I've ever wanted to be in life is a wife and a mom. But the mom thing just isn't happening for me yet. I know it will and I'm trying to be patient and leave it all in the Lord's hands. The deep ache is there in my heart but I can't allow myself to sink into the depression that I went through after the last one. We cannot financially afford for me to not be able to function and to work. Life will go on and so must I. I do feel a bit better equipt emotionally to deal with it this time. I wasn't as sick as last time nor as shocked at it happening. Michael gave me a blessing and I do feel peace and I know the Lord is mindful of my situation and will bless me with all my hearts righteous desires in His time. I just have to be patient and faithful.
When it started to happen I felt at peace and that all would be okay. I think I became a bit more worried this time about the future possibilities and things that may go wrong because I got a call while I was on my way to have the ultrasound from a friend of mine who has had some of the same problems as I have. She is having a either a partial or full hysterectomy in a couple of weeks. They won't know until she goes in for surgery. We both have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and have had ruptured cysts and miscarriages along with other health issues. It really freaked me out but I felt a bit better after the ultrasound confirmed I was okay. I realized things could be a lot worse for me and I should be grateful for that. I will be okay. It's just hard. But I will triumph over this one way or the other. I really try not to compare my sorrows and trials with others and I usually can separate my sorrow from others happiness. I am truly happy for those who are blessed with babies and I know I will be one of those people. My patriarchial blessing promises me that I will. I'm just having an off day. I guess I am allowed. I forget that sometimes. :] ..."
I know I am not a lone reed in this sad tale. I have many a friend who have had miscarriages and lost babies. Several of you, my faithful readers, have been there. It is never easy but I know it doesn't have to cripple us. I went through it once and eventually triumphed over my sadness. I know I can do it again. It's amazing how much stronger you can become and how your ability to deal with things can increase. I am seeing that in myself first hand. I have definitely felt the healing touch of my Master's Hand these last days. The atonement is such a wonderful thing. I can tell you I know it is for more than those dumb sins we commit. It can heal hearts and soften our sorrows if we will only ask.
Thanks for listening. Love to all!
Monday, December 22, 2008
I've Seen 120 Out of 239 Films
Okay. I saw this on someone's blog and it made me wonder how many of these movies I had seen. 120 for me. How about you? Mark the ones you've seen. Please no judging on the ones I have seen. Some were good, some were...not. But I was honest. Anyhoo. There are 239 films on this list. Copy this list to your blog and paste this as a note. Then, put x's next to the films you've seen, add them up, change the header adding your number, and click post at the bottom.
(x) Rocky Horror Picture Show
(x) Grease
(x) Pirates of the Caribbean
(x) Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man's Chest
() Boondock Saints
() Fight Club
() Starsky and Hutch
(x) Neverending Story
(x) Blazing Saddles
(x) Airplane
Total: 7
(x) The Princess Bride
(x) Anchorman
(x) Napoleon Dynamite
(x) Labyrinth
() Saw
() Saw II
() White Noise
() White Oleander
(x) Anger Management
(x) 50 First Dates
(x) The Princess Diaries
(x) The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement
Total so far: 15
() Scream
() Scream 2
() Scream 3
() Scary Movie
() Scary Movie 2
() Scary Movie 3
() Scary Movie 4
() American Pie
() American Pie 2
() American Wedding
() American Pie Band Camp
Total so far: 15
(x) Harry Potter 1
(x) Harry Potter 2
(x) Harry Potter 3
(x) Harry Potter 4
() Resident Evil 1
() Resident Evil 2
(x) The Wedding Singer
(x) Little Black Book
() The Village
(x) Lilo & Stitch
Total so far: 22
(x) Finding Nemo
(x) Finding Neverland
(x) Signs
(x) The Grinch
() Texas Chainsaw Massacre
() Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning
(x) White Chicks
(x) Butterfly Effect
(x) 13 Going on 30
(x) I, Robot
() Robots
Total so far: 30
(x) Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story
() Universal Soldier
(x) Lemony Snicket: A Series Of Unfortunate Events
(x) Along Came Polly
(x) Deep Impact
() KingPin
(x) Never Been Kissed
(x) Meet The Parents
(x) Meet the Fockers
(x) Eight Crazy Nights
(x) Joe Dirt
(x) KING KONG
Total so far: 40
(x) A Cinderella Story
(x) The Terminal
(x) The Lizzie McGuire Movie
() Passport to Paris
(x) Dumb & Dumber
(x) Dumber & Dumberer
() Final Destination
() Final Destination 2
() Final Destination 3
() Halloween
(x) The Ring
() The Ring 2
() Surviving X-MAS
() Flubber
Total so far: 46
() Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle
(x) Practical Magic
(x) Chicago
() Ghost Ship
() From Hell
() Hellboy
() Secret Window
() I Am Sam
(x) The Whole Nine Yards
(x) The Whole Ten Yards
Total so far: 50
(x) The Day After Tomorrow
() Child's Play
() Seed of Chucky
() Bride of Chucky
(x) 10 Things I Hate About You
(x) Just Married
() Gothika
(x) Nightmare on Elm Street
(x) Sixteen Candles
(x) Remember the Titans
() Coach Carter
() The Grudge
()The Grudge 2
(x) The Mask
() Son Of The Mask
Total so far: 57
() Bad Boys
() Bad Boys 2
() Joy Ride
() Lucky Number Slevin
(x) Ocean's Eleven
(x) Ocean's Twelve
(x) Bourne Identity
(x) Bourne Supremecy
() Lone Star
(x) Bedazzled
() Predator I
() Predator II
() The Fog
(x) Ice Age
(x) Ice Age 2: The Meltdown
() Curious George
Total so far: 64
(x) Independence Day
() Cujo
() A Bronx Tale
() Darkness Falls
() Christine
(x) ET
(x) Children of the Corn
() My Bosses Daughter
(x) Maid in Manhattan
() War of the Worlds
(x) Rush Hour
(x) Rush Hour 2
Total so far: 70
() Best Bet
(x) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
(x) She's All That
() Calendar Girls
() Sideways
(x) Mars Attacks
() Event Horizon
(x) Ever After
(x) Wizard of Oz
(x) Forrest Gump
(x) Big Trouble in Little China
(x) The Terminator
(x) The Terminator 2
(x) The Terminator 3
Total so far: 80
(x) X-Men
(x) X-2
(x) X-3
(x) Spider-Man
(x) Spider-Man 2
() Sky High
() Jeepers Creepers
() Jeepers Creepers 2
(x) Catch Me If You Can
(x) The Little Mermaid
(x) Freaky Friday
() Reign of Fire
() The Skulls
() Cruel Intentions
() Cruel Intentions 2
() The Hot Chick
(x) Shrek
(x) Shrek 2
Total so far: 90
() Swimfan
(x) Miracle on 34th street
(x) Old School
(x) The Notebook
() K-Pax
() Krippendorf's Tribe
(x) A Walk to Remember
(x) Ice Castles
() Boogeyman
() The 40-year-old Virgin
Total so far: 95
(x) Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring
(x) Lord of the Rings The Two Towers
(x) Lord of the Rings Return Of the King
(x) Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
(x) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
(x) Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Total so far: 101
() Baseketball
() Hostel
(x) Waiting for Guffman
() House of 1000 Corpses
() Devils Rejects
(x) Elf
(x) Highlander
() Mothman Prophecies
() American History X
() Three
Total so Far: 104
() The Jacket
() Kung Fu Hustle
() Shaolin Soccer
() Night Watch
(x) Monsters Inc.
(x) Titanic
(x) Monty Python and the Holy Grail
() Shaun Of the Dead
() Willard
Total so far: 107
() High Tension
() Club Dread
(x) Hulk
() Dawn Of the Dead
(x) Hook
(x) Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
() 28 days later
() Orgazmo
() Phantasm
() Waterworld
Total so far: 110
() Kill Bill vol 1
() Kill Bill vol 2
() Mortal Kombat
() Wolf Creek
() Kingdom of Heaven
() the Hills Have Eyes
() I Spit on Your Grave aka the Day of the Woman
() The Last House on the Left
() Re-Animator
() Army of Darkness
Total so far: 110
(x) Star Wars Ep. I The Phantom Menace
(x)Star Wars Ep. II Attack of the Clones
(x) Star Wars Ep. III Revenge of the Sith
(x) Star Wars Ep. IV A New Hope
(x) Star Wars Ep. V The Empire Strikes Back
(x) Star Wars Ep. VI Return of the Jedi
() Ewoks Caravan Of Courage
() Ewoks The Battle For Endor
Total so far: 116
(x) The Matrix
(x) The Matrix Reloaded
(x) The Matrix Revolutions
()Animatrix
() Evil Dead
() Evil Dead 2
() Team America: World Police
() Red Dragon
(x) Silence of the Lambs
() Hannibal
Total so far: 120
Now Add them up and...
Put "I've seen ... out of 239 films" in the subject line and repost it.
(x) Rocky Horror Picture Show
(x) Grease
(x) Pirates of the Caribbean
(x) Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man's Chest
() Boondock Saints
() Fight Club
() Starsky and Hutch
(x) Neverending Story
(x) Blazing Saddles
(x) Airplane
Total: 7
(x) The Princess Bride
(x) Anchorman
(x) Napoleon Dynamite
(x) Labyrinth
() Saw
() Saw II
() White Noise
() White Oleander
(x) Anger Management
(x) 50 First Dates
(x) The Princess Diaries
(x) The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement
Total so far: 15
() Scream
() Scream 2
() Scream 3
() Scary Movie
() Scary Movie 2
() Scary Movie 3
() Scary Movie 4
() American Pie
() American Pie 2
() American Wedding
() American Pie Band Camp
Total so far: 15
(x) Harry Potter 1
(x) Harry Potter 2
(x) Harry Potter 3
(x) Harry Potter 4
() Resident Evil 1
() Resident Evil 2
(x) The Wedding Singer
(x) Little Black Book
() The Village
(x) Lilo & Stitch
Total so far: 22
(x) Finding Nemo
(x) Finding Neverland
(x) Signs
(x) The Grinch
() Texas Chainsaw Massacre
() Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning
(x) White Chicks
(x) Butterfly Effect
(x) 13 Going on 30
(x) I, Robot
() Robots
Total so far: 30
(x) Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story
() Universal Soldier
(x) Lemony Snicket: A Series Of Unfortunate Events
(x) Along Came Polly
(x) Deep Impact
() KingPin
(x) Never Been Kissed
(x) Meet The Parents
(x) Meet the Fockers
(x) Eight Crazy Nights
(x) Joe Dirt
(x) KING KONG
Total so far: 40
(x) A Cinderella Story
(x) The Terminal
(x) The Lizzie McGuire Movie
() Passport to Paris
(x) Dumb & Dumber
(x) Dumber & Dumberer
() Final Destination
() Final Destination 2
() Final Destination 3
() Halloween
(x) The Ring
() The Ring 2
() Surviving X-MAS
() Flubber
Total so far: 46
() Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle
(x) Practical Magic
(x) Chicago
() Ghost Ship
() From Hell
() Hellboy
() Secret Window
() I Am Sam
(x) The Whole Nine Yards
(x) The Whole Ten Yards
Total so far: 50
(x) The Day After Tomorrow
() Child's Play
() Seed of Chucky
() Bride of Chucky
(x) 10 Things I Hate About You
(x) Just Married
() Gothika
(x) Nightmare on Elm Street
(x) Sixteen Candles
(x) Remember the Titans
() Coach Carter
() The Grudge
()The Grudge 2
(x) The Mask
() Son Of The Mask
Total so far: 57
() Bad Boys
() Bad Boys 2
() Joy Ride
() Lucky Number Slevin
(x) Ocean's Eleven
(x) Ocean's Twelve
(x) Bourne Identity
(x) Bourne Supremecy
() Lone Star
(x) Bedazzled
() Predator I
() Predator II
() The Fog
(x) Ice Age
(x) Ice Age 2: The Meltdown
() Curious George
Total so far: 64
(x) Independence Day
() Cujo
() A Bronx Tale
() Darkness Falls
() Christine
(x) ET
(x) Children of the Corn
() My Bosses Daughter
(x) Maid in Manhattan
() War of the Worlds
(x) Rush Hour
(x) Rush Hour 2
Total so far: 70
() Best Bet
(x) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
(x) She's All That
() Calendar Girls
() Sideways
(x) Mars Attacks
() Event Horizon
(x) Ever After
(x) Wizard of Oz
(x) Forrest Gump
(x) Big Trouble in Little China
(x) The Terminator
(x) The Terminator 2
(x) The Terminator 3
Total so far: 80
(x) X-Men
(x) X-2
(x) X-3
(x) Spider-Man
(x) Spider-Man 2
() Sky High
() Jeepers Creepers
() Jeepers Creepers 2
(x) Catch Me If You Can
(x) The Little Mermaid
(x) Freaky Friday
() Reign of Fire
() The Skulls
() Cruel Intentions
() Cruel Intentions 2
() The Hot Chick
(x) Shrek
(x) Shrek 2
Total so far: 90
() Swimfan
(x) Miracle on 34th street
(x) Old School
(x) The Notebook
() K-Pax
() Krippendorf's Tribe
(x) A Walk to Remember
(x) Ice Castles
() Boogeyman
() The 40-year-old Virgin
Total so far: 95
(x) Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring
(x) Lord of the Rings The Two Towers
(x) Lord of the Rings Return Of the King
(x) Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
(x) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
(x) Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Total so far: 101
() Baseketball
() Hostel
(x) Waiting for Guffman
() House of 1000 Corpses
() Devils Rejects
(x) Elf
(x) Highlander
() Mothman Prophecies
() American History X
() Three
Total so Far: 104
() The Jacket
() Kung Fu Hustle
() Shaolin Soccer
() Night Watch
(x) Monsters Inc.
(x) Titanic
(x) Monty Python and the Holy Grail
() Shaun Of the Dead
() Willard
Total so far: 107
() High Tension
() Club Dread
(x) Hulk
() Dawn Of the Dead
(x) Hook
(x) Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
() 28 days later
() Orgazmo
() Phantasm
() Waterworld
Total so far: 110
() Kill Bill vol 1
() Kill Bill vol 2
() Mortal Kombat
() Wolf Creek
() Kingdom of Heaven
() the Hills Have Eyes
() I Spit on Your Grave aka the Day of the Woman
() The Last House on the Left
() Re-Animator
() Army of Darkness
Total so far: 110
(x) Star Wars Ep. I The Phantom Menace
(x)Star Wars Ep. II Attack of the Clones
(x) Star Wars Ep. III Revenge of the Sith
(x) Star Wars Ep. IV A New Hope
(x) Star Wars Ep. V The Empire Strikes Back
(x) Star Wars Ep. VI Return of the Jedi
() Ewoks Caravan Of Courage
() Ewoks The Battle For Endor
Total so far: 116
(x) The Matrix
(x) The Matrix Reloaded
(x) The Matrix Revolutions
()Animatrix
() Evil Dead
() Evil Dead 2
() Team America: World Police
() Red Dragon
(x) Silence of the Lambs
() Hannibal
Total so far: 120
Now Add them up and...
Put "I've seen ... out of 239 films" in the subject line and repost it.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The Reason For the Season
This video was sent to me by my sweet Uncle Mike. It was so beautiful. I knew I had to share it.
Monday, November 24, 2008
SCATTERGORIES...
Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following. They have to be real places, names, things. Nothing made up! You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question. And you cannot use the same word twice. I'm not going to tag anyone. Do it if you'd like to do so! :]
YOUR NAME: Nancy
BOY NAME: Nicholas
4 LETTER WORD: nape
GIRL NAME: Nicholle
OCCUPATION: nurse
A COLOR: navy
SOMETHING YOU WEAR: necklace
BEVERAGE: Nehi
FOOD: Nilla Wafers
SOMETHING FOUND IN A BATHROOM: naked people
A PLACE: Nantucket
REASON FOR BEING LATE: No sense of direction
SOMETHING YOU SHOUT: Not!
YOUR NAME: Nancy
BOY NAME: Nicholas
4 LETTER WORD: nape
GIRL NAME: Nicholle
OCCUPATION: nurse
A COLOR: navy
SOMETHING YOU WEAR: necklace
BEVERAGE: Nehi
FOOD: Nilla Wafers
SOMETHING FOUND IN A BATHROOM: naked people
A PLACE: Nantucket
REASON FOR BEING LATE: No sense of direction
SOMETHING YOU SHOUT: Not!
Friday, November 14, 2008
A Legacy of Faith
"...And they were also distinguished for their zeal towards God, and also towards men; for they were perfectly honest and upright in all things; and they were firm in the faith of Christ, even unto the end." ~Alma 27:27
I came across this scripture in my reading the other day and it really left an impression on me. When I leave this world, I hope that the way I have led my life will impress upon others my enthusiastic devotion...a zeal...towards God, that I was perfectly honest and upright in all things, with an abiding faith and an eager willingness to fulfill all of God's commandments. I guess I have a lot of work to do. I'll be here for a while. :]
I came across this scripture in my reading the other day and it really left an impression on me. When I leave this world, I hope that the way I have led my life will impress upon others my enthusiastic devotion...a zeal...towards God, that I was perfectly honest and upright in all things, with an abiding faith and an eager willingness to fulfill all of God's commandments. I guess I have a lot of work to do. I'll be here for a while. :]
Proposition 8
I saw the following video on my friend Laura's blog and wanted it for my own:
I've read a lot about what has been going on before and since Proposition 8 has been passed. I've been disappointed at some of the threats of violence, vandalism, and the picketing at the temples and churches in California, Arizona and in downtown Salt Lake City. I've been surprised by some of the people that have come forward in the public eye who have either been strongly for or against it. But I think the thing I've been amazed at the most are the strong opinions expressed to me personally in support of each side of this argument. In one discussion, I was asked which side I supported. After I expressed my support of Proposition 8 (marriage to be defined as only between a man and a woman), I was shocked at the response. It was pretty hateful. I was surprised at the lengths that this person went to try to prove me wrong. In my life I have tried to be open minded and to listen to both sides of an argument before making my decision. But this is more than just making a decision based on logic. My decision is based on a deep rooted belief in a principle that I believe to be correct. While I feel for their position, I won't change mine. The world is changing but we need to stick to what we believe. However, we can do it with love. In some cases, I have had to agree to disagree and move forward. As I learned on my mission, you cannot feel the Spirit in a discussion if the discussion is filled with contention. Anger and love cannot reside in the same heart. I love you all! I hope you enjoy the video!
I've read a lot about what has been going on before and since Proposition 8 has been passed. I've been disappointed at some of the threats of violence, vandalism, and the picketing at the temples and churches in California, Arizona and in downtown Salt Lake City. I've been surprised by some of the people that have come forward in the public eye who have either been strongly for or against it. But I think the thing I've been amazed at the most are the strong opinions expressed to me personally in support of each side of this argument. In one discussion, I was asked which side I supported. After I expressed my support of Proposition 8 (marriage to be defined as only between a man and a woman), I was shocked at the response. It was pretty hateful. I was surprised at the lengths that this person went to try to prove me wrong. In my life I have tried to be open minded and to listen to both sides of an argument before making my decision. But this is more than just making a decision based on logic. My decision is based on a deep rooted belief in a principle that I believe to be correct. While I feel for their position, I won't change mine. The world is changing but we need to stick to what we believe. However, we can do it with love. In some cases, I have had to agree to disagree and move forward. As I learned on my mission, you cannot feel the Spirit in a discussion if the discussion is filled with contention. Anger and love cannot reside in the same heart. I love you all! I hope you enjoy the video!
Friday, November 7, 2008
One Year Ago Today
I can't believe it has been a year since Laurie passed away. It still seems so much like a bad dream. But it's not. :[ Every time I go over to my Mom's house and go down the hall where her room was, I walk past Laurie's door and ring her princess door bell. And, every time I do, I expect to hear Laurie calling out and saying hi to me. I miss my sweet sister. She is the best sister in the whole wide country and our family is definitely different without her jokes and sweet smile. We miss her laughter and her hugs. We miss her peaceful ways and the way she made each of us feel special just by being around her. She had a way of making you feel like you were the most important person in the world. Not only is she a wonderful sister, she is a great friend. I look forward to the day when I can see her again. That will be a great day! I love you Laurie! Miss you much!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Thankful Thursday
Thankful: Gratitude, appreciation, or thankfulness is a positive emotion or attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive.
Here is my list for this week:
1) I am thankful for my sweet sister Laurie. Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of the day she passed away. I still can't believe she hasn't been here for almost a year. It seems like just yesterday she was making her daily call to me telling me she was out of glue, needed me to change her light bulb, wanted me to turn up the heat, she wanted to go to Chevron, to a movie or to scrapbook with me. I loved the calls then and I miss them now. She is such a wonderful person, the most Christlike person I know. She was always thinking of others. She loved to make people laugh. She loved a good practical joke. I loved to make her laugh. When she laughed, it was with her whole body. Her smile could light up a room or brighten a bad day. I miss her but am reminded daily of the legacy she left behind. She was so accepting of everyone...didn't matter what you looked like, she saw the heart. What a great example she was and is to us all.
2) I am thankful the elections are over. I am so tired of hearing about them. I think the elections should only last three months from start to finish. We would have three months to look at the candidates instead of two years of the back and forth bashing and such. It gets so old. So glad it is over!
3) I am thankful for the scriptures. Michael and I have been reading every night and I love it! It has been so nice to feel that extra peace from the Spirit the scriptures bring into our home. We haven't missed a night since we made the goal to do it every day.
4) I am thankful for Michael. He is a good man and is so kind to me and patient with me. He is the best husband in the world! I love him so much.
5) I am thankful for fun friends and blogging. I have been able to get reacquainted with friends I haven't seen in a long time and I've been able to strengthen new friendships through blogging. It's fun to see what other people deem blog worthy. There is a variety of fun that you can find on each person's blog. Also, it's nice when you work from home to have that additional outside connection. It keeps me sane and entertained.
Well, there is my list for the week. Hope you enjoyed it!
Here is my list for this week:
1) I am thankful for my sweet sister Laurie. Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of the day she passed away. I still can't believe she hasn't been here for almost a year. It seems like just yesterday she was making her daily call to me telling me she was out of glue, needed me to change her light bulb, wanted me to turn up the heat, she wanted to go to Chevron, to a movie or to scrapbook with me. I loved the calls then and I miss them now. She is such a wonderful person, the most Christlike person I know. She was always thinking of others. She loved to make people laugh. She loved a good practical joke. I loved to make her laugh. When she laughed, it was with her whole body. Her smile could light up a room or brighten a bad day. I miss her but am reminded daily of the legacy she left behind. She was so accepting of everyone...didn't matter what you looked like, she saw the heart. What a great example she was and is to us all.
2) I am thankful the elections are over. I am so tired of hearing about them. I think the elections should only last three months from start to finish. We would have three months to look at the candidates instead of two years of the back and forth bashing and such. It gets so old. So glad it is over!
3) I am thankful for the scriptures. Michael and I have been reading every night and I love it! It has been so nice to feel that extra peace from the Spirit the scriptures bring into our home. We haven't missed a night since we made the goal to do it every day.
4) I am thankful for Michael. He is a good man and is so kind to me and patient with me. He is the best husband in the world! I love him so much.
5) I am thankful for fun friends and blogging. I have been able to get reacquainted with friends I haven't seen in a long time and I've been able to strengthen new friendships through blogging. It's fun to see what other people deem blog worthy. There is a variety of fun that you can find on each person's blog. Also, it's nice when you work from home to have that additional outside connection. It keeps me sane and entertained.
Well, there is my list for the week. Hope you enjoyed it!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
A New Day, A New Start
I came across the following article on Sharkbait's blog and it really expresses my feelings regarding the election. Obama wasn't my first or even second choice for President but I will try to put my feelings aside and support him as long as he doesn't try to lead America astray. I hope the change he talks about is a good thing that it will be in the best interest of the country in which he will now represent. I am grateful for the opportunity to live in a country where I have the freedom to vote. And, even though my candidate lost, I'm glad I let my voice be heard. Hope you enjoy the article.
A New Day, A New Start
Family Values Talk Radio by Bob Lonsberry
Tuesday 11-04-2008 11:55pm MT
It is a sea change, but not a mandate. And that's not a hit on Barack Obama, it is a challenge. A challenge to make his rhetoric about no more blue states and red states, but simply United States, actually mean something. Unity is earned, not declared, and the simple fact is that one more 51-percent president doesn't bind a country together.
Rather, like George W. Bush, he has tremendous potential to leave it decidedly divided. Democrats are exultantly talking about a wave sweeping the country, about a new hope and an era of change, but the fact is that almost as many people opposed Barack Obama as supported him. Those people aren't cheering today, they are licking their wounds. And while the best of them will give Barack Obama a fair shake, many made up their minds months ago about him.
So President-elect Obama must avoid the temptation to do an end zone dance with his friends. He must rather immediately and convincingly reach out to people who feel like he has looked down his nose at them and their values and culture. The people he once mocked as clinging to their guns and their religion are just as American as the people who voted for him, and almost as numerous, and the country will only become united if he respects them. If he, however, marginalizes them, if they continue to be the object of his scorn, the butt of his followers' jokes, there will be no unity. There will be merely smoldering resentments that will bear fruit in two years and four.
Barack Obama must throw his efforts and his abilities into the large task of winning over the people he hasn't yet won over. And those people must give him a chance.
Something as big as a presidential election is no more complex than a Little League game. You play hard and you hope to win but after nine innings it's about what's on the scoreboard. If you have the most runs, you win. If you don't, you don't. And if you don't, you accept the outcome and politely congratulate the winner. Win or lose with dignity or grace. That's the American way.
And the American way means that, when the votes are counted and the victor is declared, it's a clean slate. This is 2008, not 2012, and there is nothing to be gained by refighting the last election or by prematurely fighting the next election. It is the duty of every American to wish the new president -- every new president -- the very best, and to do the duty of citizenship, which is to build up, not tear down, and give the benefit of the doubt.
That doesn't obligate anyone to support anything they disagree with, but it does, in the name of decency, require people to give the new regime a chance, to give it a fair hearing. In our country, the president is the president of all Americans, and if the treatment of George W. Bush didn't reflect that, then we can try to do better this time.
Certainly, it has been a long time since either political party has held as much power as the Democrats now hold. But with that power comes a temptation to misuse it, or to fall prey to arrogance. The Republicans proved that, as both parties have in their turn. This can be either the beginning of a Democratic dynasty, or the beginning of their end. Which it is will be determined by them.
Largely, it will be determined by him -- by the president elect. The Democratic leaders in the Congress have proven over two years to be caustically partisan, to be enthralled with smashing and mocking all who fail to match their high liberalism. Whether or not Barack Obama can change that -- if he wants to -- remains to be seen. But here's hoping for the best.
Election Day is our greatest day. It is the defining American day. We fight wars as a means to an end, and the sovereignty of the people and the liberties necessary to protect that sovereignty are the end. We transfer more power than humankind has ever held on the peaceful basis of counted ballots. We do it with grace and faith. The grace to act as citizens and the faith that our system will work and the right will be done.
Barack Obama was not my choice, but he is my president. That is true of all Americans. For the last eight years, there has been an ongoing campaign of destruction meant to handicap and hobble the last president. I refuse to be part of an effort to do the same to the next president. Those who didn't vote for Barack Obama must set a higher standard of civility and citizenship than those who didn't vote for George W. Bush. In defeat, there must still be nobility. That doesn't mean silent servility. It doesn't mean differences and principles are ignored. But it does mean the new president gets a new chance. It means we all must pray for him and work with him to make our country stronger and safer and better.
Pretty speeches notwithstanding, there remains a great divide, much of it created by the recent election. To the extent it needs to be bridged, it will be bridged by an effort by the president-elect to reach out to those who don't trust him, and by an effort by the people to reach out to a president who might not trust them.
The last eight years have taught us what happens when you set out to destroy a presidency for political gain. You help your candidate, but you hurt your country. That pattern must not be followed with this new president. America must treat Barack Obama better than he treated George W. Bush.
He has preached a "shift to the center," he has claimed to be "post partisan." Through the campaign, those were just words. In the administration, they will need to be more. Or all the hope and the change and the hooplah will be meaningless hype. But today is a new day, and a fresh start. And the president-elect gets the benefit of the doubt.
A New Day, A New Start
Family Values Talk Radio by Bob Lonsberry
Tuesday 11-04-2008 11:55pm MT
It is a sea change, but not a mandate. And that's not a hit on Barack Obama, it is a challenge. A challenge to make his rhetoric about no more blue states and red states, but simply United States, actually mean something. Unity is earned, not declared, and the simple fact is that one more 51-percent president doesn't bind a country together.
Rather, like George W. Bush, he has tremendous potential to leave it decidedly divided. Democrats are exultantly talking about a wave sweeping the country, about a new hope and an era of change, but the fact is that almost as many people opposed Barack Obama as supported him. Those people aren't cheering today, they are licking their wounds. And while the best of them will give Barack Obama a fair shake, many made up their minds months ago about him.
So President-elect Obama must avoid the temptation to do an end zone dance with his friends. He must rather immediately and convincingly reach out to people who feel like he has looked down his nose at them and their values and culture. The people he once mocked as clinging to their guns and their religion are just as American as the people who voted for him, and almost as numerous, and the country will only become united if he respects them. If he, however, marginalizes them, if they continue to be the object of his scorn, the butt of his followers' jokes, there will be no unity. There will be merely smoldering resentments that will bear fruit in two years and four.
Barack Obama must throw his efforts and his abilities into the large task of winning over the people he hasn't yet won over. And those people must give him a chance.
Something as big as a presidential election is no more complex than a Little League game. You play hard and you hope to win but after nine innings it's about what's on the scoreboard. If you have the most runs, you win. If you don't, you don't. And if you don't, you accept the outcome and politely congratulate the winner. Win or lose with dignity or grace. That's the American way.
And the American way means that, when the votes are counted and the victor is declared, it's a clean slate. This is 2008, not 2012, and there is nothing to be gained by refighting the last election or by prematurely fighting the next election. It is the duty of every American to wish the new president -- every new president -- the very best, and to do the duty of citizenship, which is to build up, not tear down, and give the benefit of the doubt.
That doesn't obligate anyone to support anything they disagree with, but it does, in the name of decency, require people to give the new regime a chance, to give it a fair hearing. In our country, the president is the president of all Americans, and if the treatment of George W. Bush didn't reflect that, then we can try to do better this time.
Certainly, it has been a long time since either political party has held as much power as the Democrats now hold. But with that power comes a temptation to misuse it, or to fall prey to arrogance. The Republicans proved that, as both parties have in their turn. This can be either the beginning of a Democratic dynasty, or the beginning of their end. Which it is will be determined by them.
Largely, it will be determined by him -- by the president elect. The Democratic leaders in the Congress have proven over two years to be caustically partisan, to be enthralled with smashing and mocking all who fail to match their high liberalism. Whether or not Barack Obama can change that -- if he wants to -- remains to be seen. But here's hoping for the best.
Election Day is our greatest day. It is the defining American day. We fight wars as a means to an end, and the sovereignty of the people and the liberties necessary to protect that sovereignty are the end. We transfer more power than humankind has ever held on the peaceful basis of counted ballots. We do it with grace and faith. The grace to act as citizens and the faith that our system will work and the right will be done.
Barack Obama was not my choice, but he is my president. That is true of all Americans. For the last eight years, there has been an ongoing campaign of destruction meant to handicap and hobble the last president. I refuse to be part of an effort to do the same to the next president. Those who didn't vote for Barack Obama must set a higher standard of civility and citizenship than those who didn't vote for George W. Bush. In defeat, there must still be nobility. That doesn't mean silent servility. It doesn't mean differences and principles are ignored. But it does mean the new president gets a new chance. It means we all must pray for him and work with him to make our country stronger and safer and better.
Pretty speeches notwithstanding, there remains a great divide, much of it created by the recent election. To the extent it needs to be bridged, it will be bridged by an effort by the president-elect to reach out to those who don't trust him, and by an effort by the people to reach out to a president who might not trust them.
The last eight years have taught us what happens when you set out to destroy a presidency for political gain. You help your candidate, but you hurt your country. That pattern must not be followed with this new president. America must treat Barack Obama better than he treated George W. Bush.
He has preached a "shift to the center," he has claimed to be "post partisan." Through the campaign, those were just words. In the administration, they will need to be more. Or all the hope and the change and the hooplah will be meaningless hype. But today is a new day, and a fresh start. And the president-elect gets the benefit of the doubt.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Tag...I'm It!
Well, I've been tagged by my darling friend Chelsea. I'm happy to do it. Afterall, I have a fabulous husband and don't mind bragging about him one bit. :]
1. Where did you meet your husband?
~We met at a barbecue in West Jordan, Utah on the 4th of July.
2. How long did you date before you got married?
~We dated for almost 10 months before getting married. We met and began dating exclusively within a week of meeting. I know! Crazeye! But when it is right, it is right! :]
3. How long have you been married?
~ We've been married for 2 1/2 years.
4. What does he do that surprises you?
~Makes me breakfast almost every morning. What a stud! He does little thoughtful things all the time.
5. What is your favorite feature of his?
~I love his deep brown eyes, his soft hair, his strong hands and his cute bum. Can't get enough of him! :] He's yummy! (I know! TMI!)
6. What is his best quality?
~His caring heart and his loyalty to those in his inner circle. He is a very loyal friend and husband and cares deeply about his friends and family. He never talks bad about people. (Exception...the head cases at work. And even then its not specifics about people but about situations.) Your name is safe with him. He, in turn, has great friends, some of whom he has been friends with almost his entire life.
7. Does he have a nickname for you?
~He has several. The ones that come to mind...Best wife ever. Sweet wife. Honey bunches of deliciousity. My dearest love. Sugar smacks. My beautiful wife. Crazy pants.
8. What is his favorite food?
~He loves steak. He is a meat lover. Anything that can be grilled, he loves.
9. What is his favorite sport?
~He likes most sports but his favorite is Hockey. I won "Best Wife Ever" award when I gave him this.
10. When and where did you first kiss?
~Our first kiss was at his house on our third date. He made me a yummy dinner and we had just finished watching a really funny movie he had introduced me to called Murder by Death. We were sitting there chatting when he got all serious and told me how much he was beginning to care for me. Then he leaned in for the smooch. Best first kiss ever!
11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple?
~Well, isn't that kind of personal? ;] Oh! Besides that? We like to read together, watch TV on DVD, go on walks, go on drives, cook together, cozy on the coach and chat...oh so many things.
12. Do you have any children?
~We have two precious little ones in heaven.
13. Does he have any hidden talents?
~He has a great singing voice. I love to listen to him sing and to sing with him.
14. How old is he?
~I'd tell you but then I'd have to kill you. (Psst. He's 40.)
15. Who said 'I love you' first?
~He said 'I love you' first. I said it right after he did. It was a surprise to us both. We had only been dating for three weeks. I knew about a week after that that I wanted to marry him. Never thought I could be someone who loved so quickly and easily. But he broke down those walls and melted my heart pretty quickly. I wouldn't say he had me at hello (because that is just too cheesy) but it was pretty close to it.
16. What is his favorite music?
~That is a tough question. He absolutely LOVES music. All music. Well, not the trashy rap kind of music. He has quite an extensive collection and is always listening to something new. If I had to choose only a few bands, I would have to say Reckless Kelly, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Beetles, Boston, Kansas, Eagles, Toto and Jimmy Buffett. He likes a lot of Classical music as well. It's hard to narrow it down to one type or one artist. Those are a select few of his favs.
17. What do you admire most about him?
~His dedication to the gospel. I never have to wonder if he will go to church or if he is worthy to give me a blessing. He takes his responsibilities with the priesthood and his callings very seriously.
18. What is his favorite color?
~His favorite color is green.
19. Will he read this?
~He will eventually.
20. Who do you tag?
~Anyone who would like to do it.
1. Where did you meet your husband?
~We met at a barbecue in West Jordan, Utah on the 4th of July.
2. How long did you date before you got married?
~We dated for almost 10 months before getting married. We met and began dating exclusively within a week of meeting. I know! Crazeye! But when it is right, it is right! :]
3. How long have you been married?
~ We've been married for 2 1/2 years.
4. What does he do that surprises you?
~Makes me breakfast almost every morning. What a stud! He does little thoughtful things all the time.
5. What is your favorite feature of his?
~I love his deep brown eyes, his soft hair, his strong hands and his cute bum. Can't get enough of him! :] He's yummy! (I know! TMI!)
6. What is his best quality?
~His caring heart and his loyalty to those in his inner circle. He is a very loyal friend and husband and cares deeply about his friends and family. He never talks bad about people. (Exception...the head cases at work. And even then its not specifics about people but about situations.) Your name is safe with him. He, in turn, has great friends, some of whom he has been friends with almost his entire life.
7. Does he have a nickname for you?
~He has several. The ones that come to mind...Best wife ever. Sweet wife. Honey bunches of deliciousity. My dearest love. Sugar smacks. My beautiful wife. Crazy pants.
8. What is his favorite food?
~He loves steak. He is a meat lover. Anything that can be grilled, he loves.
9. What is his favorite sport?
~He likes most sports but his favorite is Hockey. I won "Best Wife Ever" award when I gave him this.
10. When and where did you first kiss?
~Our first kiss was at his house on our third date. He made me a yummy dinner and we had just finished watching a really funny movie he had introduced me to called Murder by Death. We were sitting there chatting when he got all serious and told me how much he was beginning to care for me. Then he leaned in for the smooch. Best first kiss ever!
11. What is your favorite thing to do as a couple?
~Well, isn't that kind of personal? ;] Oh! Besides that? We like to read together, watch TV on DVD, go on walks, go on drives, cook together, cozy on the coach and chat...oh so many things.
12. Do you have any children?
~We have two precious little ones in heaven.
13. Does he have any hidden talents?
~He has a great singing voice. I love to listen to him sing and to sing with him.
14. How old is he?
~I'd tell you but then I'd have to kill you. (Psst. He's 40.)
15. Who said 'I love you' first?
~He said 'I love you' first. I said it right after he did. It was a surprise to us both. We had only been dating for three weeks. I knew about a week after that that I wanted to marry him. Never thought I could be someone who loved so quickly and easily. But he broke down those walls and melted my heart pretty quickly. I wouldn't say he had me at hello (because that is just too cheesy) but it was pretty close to it.
16. What is his favorite music?
~That is a tough question. He absolutely LOVES music. All music. Well, not the trashy rap kind of music. He has quite an extensive collection and is always listening to something new. If I had to choose only a few bands, I would have to say Reckless Kelly, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Beetles, Boston, Kansas, Eagles, Toto and Jimmy Buffett. He likes a lot of Classical music as well. It's hard to narrow it down to one type or one artist. Those are a select few of his favs.
17. What do you admire most about him?
~His dedication to the gospel. I never have to wonder if he will go to church or if he is worthy to give me a blessing. He takes his responsibilities with the priesthood and his callings very seriously.
18. What is his favorite color?
~His favorite color is green.
19. Will he read this?
~He will eventually.
20. Who do you tag?
~Anyone who would like to do it.
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