It's been an incredibly craptastic week. If something could go wrong, it did. School is BEYOND stressful right now. Work is getting crazier as year-end approaches. Everything costs money. Thanksgiving (which means days of cooking and cleaning) is less than four weeks away. My apartment is a total disaster area, almost approaching the toxic point. And to top it all off, my oven might be wrecked since it took an hour to heat up to 175 F last night when trying to bake brownies for a work party. Yeah, not a happy camper.
BUT ... it could be worse. I was reminded of that very thing on the way to work this morning as I was feeling sorry for myself. There was a grocery cart filled with all sorts of belongings parked in front of a bus bench that contained two little eyes poking out of a tightly wrapped blanket. And my description does NOT do the scene justice. Yeah, I was humbled and teared up a little bit, too.
Then I thought, "You know, it was really nice of Heavenly Father to remind me how good I have it, especially after thinking things couldn't get any worse." So cowboy up, Katie! You've got it easier, even with your so-called troubles, than a lot of people.
Yeah, it could definitely be worse.
10/29/10
10/27/10
Getting Giddy!
Oooh, I'm getting giddy for Christmas! The cold weather hit this week (sad), which made me start listening to Christmas music (my very favorite), and I'm now pretty sure I know what my parents will get for Christmas from me (hallelujah!).
This is good news because I fret over their gift every year. Usually, I end up getting them something practical. Last year, it was new phones for the house. Boooooooooring! The only problem with knowing what I want to get them is that I can't post it here. (Dang you, Mom, for reading my blog!)
Let's just say I'm excited about it, even though I'm also a little worried it won't go over as well as I hope it will. They may very well hate it and wish I'd bought them another set of phones. Mom claims they love everything I do for them. But she has to say that because she's my mom.
For now, I'll end by saying that my favorite song of all time is Sleigh Ride, and I love the Arthur Fiedler with the Boston Pops Orchestra version the very best. Although, Johnny Mathis does a pretty great vocal version. And, in the "spirit of the season", I got out my Columbia snow boots this morning just in case the white stuff had piled on the ground last night, but I was happy and relieved when we only got a skiff. The road construction is going to be murder this winter!!!
This is good news because I fret over their gift every year. Usually, I end up getting them something practical. Last year, it was new phones for the house. Boooooooooring! The only problem with knowing what I want to get them is that I can't post it here. (Dang you, Mom, for reading my blog!)
Let's just say I'm excited about it, even though I'm also a little worried it won't go over as well as I hope it will. They may very well hate it and wish I'd bought them another set of phones. Mom claims they love everything I do for them. But she has to say that because she's my mom.
For now, I'll end by saying that my favorite song of all time is Sleigh Ride, and I love the Arthur Fiedler with the Boston Pops Orchestra version the very best. Although, Johnny Mathis does a pretty great vocal version. And, in the "spirit of the season", I got out my Columbia snow boots this morning just in case the white stuff had piled on the ground last night, but I was happy and relieved when we only got a skiff. The road construction is going to be murder this winter!!!
10/26/10
Primary Program
The boys didn't scream when they sang.
Almost every kid had their part memorized.
They all knew the words to the music.
Everything went really well.
Until the fire alarm got pulled! Yep. It's true. We're ready to sing the closing song, I've just played the introduction, and the fire alarm goes off. (I heard later that someone actually pulled it and it was NOT an accident. Jerks!) The bishop got up and ran to turn it off. The kids were a little worried, wondering if we should evacuate. The rest of the congregation, including the Stake President, sat right where they were and didn't move an inch.
What did I do? Well, I just kept playing. What else could I do? I knew if I stopped playing the kids would go nuts and we'd never get them back to sing the closing song. And it was such a good song! We had to sing it.
The alarm finally got turned off, we started singing again, and the alarm beeped a couple of times and then died. The children finished singing, and the whole program turned out beautifully! I'm so happy those older boys were respectful. And I'm so glad the teachers were there to keep the kids reverent during the fire alarm fiasco.
The crowning jewel of it all? One of the yelling boys came up to me in the nursery room and (with head down and arms folded) said, "Sister Miller, sorry about last week." Aw. How cute! Then, I found out later his mother had only heard about the incident that morning and it ruined her Sunday! She was NOT happy and demanded that he apologize. They were planning to come over after church, but I saw her at choir practice and told her about his apology. I think she was glad he'd done it on his own accord. The reason doesn't really matter. What matters is he knew what he did was wrong and tried to make it right. He deserves a pat on the back for that. And it feels good to know that my going postal actually made a difference, even if it was only for a second and only with one of those boys.
Almost every kid had their part memorized.
They all knew the words to the music.
Everything went really well.
Until the fire alarm got pulled! Yep. It's true. We're ready to sing the closing song, I've just played the introduction, and the fire alarm goes off. (I heard later that someone actually pulled it and it was NOT an accident. Jerks!) The bishop got up and ran to turn it off. The kids were a little worried, wondering if we should evacuate. The rest of the congregation, including the Stake President, sat right where they were and didn't move an inch.
What did I do? Well, I just kept playing. What else could I do? I knew if I stopped playing the kids would go nuts and we'd never get them back to sing the closing song. And it was such a good song! We had to sing it.
The alarm finally got turned off, we started singing again, and the alarm beeped a couple of times and then died. The children finished singing, and the whole program turned out beautifully! I'm so happy those older boys were respectful. And I'm so glad the teachers were there to keep the kids reverent during the fire alarm fiasco.
The crowning jewel of it all? One of the yelling boys came up to me in the nursery room and (with head down and arms folded) said, "Sister Miller, sorry about last week." Aw. How cute! Then, I found out later his mother had only heard about the incident that morning and it ruined her Sunday! She was NOT happy and demanded that he apologize. They were planning to come over after church, but I saw her at choir practice and told her about his apology. I think she was glad he'd done it on his own accord. The reason doesn't really matter. What matters is he knew what he did was wrong and tried to make it right. He deserves a pat on the back for that. And it feels good to know that my going postal actually made a difference, even if it was only for a second and only with one of those boys.
Pumpkin Stew
I love fall!!! It's my favorite time of the year. The smells, the colors, the food - everything about fall is great. It's quickly slipping away though, darnit! We've had cold weather the last few days and it doesn't look like it's going away any time soon.
The saving grace? Pumpkin Stew. That's right, stew you eat out of a pumpkin. It's so delish! And I'm making it this Saturday for our Halloween treat. While I was at WalMart last night picking up some Christmas gifts and other things, I saw pie pumpkins on sale for $.78 a pound. Sweet! So, I picked up eight little punkins and can't wait to get cookin' on that stew.
This year's stew is going to have hamburger, onions, peppers, carrots, tomatoes, beans, and corn in it. We'll top it off with some Parmesan cheese or melted cheddar. Mm, mm, mm. That's good stuff, Maynard! I might find some other things to add to the pot, too. We'll see. I think my brother, David, is just as excited (if not more) as I am to get this party started!
I might have to make some yummy corn bread to go with it and a delectable dessert (for those who insist on some sugar-coated goodies with their meal). This year, my friend, Juliann, is coming over to eat with us before we head up to Spring Haven for a Halloween shindig. She's dressing up as Fiona (from Shrek), so the two "princesses" will be in for a night of good food, fun, and adventure. Yee-haw!
One of these days I'm going to either meet or be a chef. It's hard work to make such yummy and creative feasts, but so worth it when you get to enjoy it with some of the people you love most!
(It is okay to end a blog post on a sappy note, right? Okay, good.)
The saving grace? Pumpkin Stew. That's right, stew you eat out of a pumpkin. It's so delish! And I'm making it this Saturday for our Halloween treat. While I was at WalMart last night picking up some Christmas gifts and other things, I saw pie pumpkins on sale for $.78 a pound. Sweet! So, I picked up eight little punkins and can't wait to get cookin' on that stew.
This year's stew is going to have hamburger, onions, peppers, carrots, tomatoes, beans, and corn in it. We'll top it off with some Parmesan cheese or melted cheddar. Mm, mm, mm. That's good stuff, Maynard! I might find some other things to add to the pot, too. We'll see. I think my brother, David, is just as excited (if not more) as I am to get this party started!
I might have to make some yummy corn bread to go with it and a delectable dessert (for those who insist on some sugar-coated goodies with their meal). This year, my friend, Juliann, is coming over to eat with us before we head up to Spring Haven for a Halloween shindig. She's dressing up as Fiona (from Shrek), so the two "princesses" will be in for a night of good food, fun, and adventure. Yee-haw!
One of these days I'm going to either meet or be a chef. It's hard work to make such yummy and creative feasts, but so worth it when you get to enjoy it with some of the people you love most!
(It is okay to end a blog post on a sappy note, right? Okay, good.)
10/25/10
Changed my mind
I changed my mind. I'm going to be Snow White for Halloween instead of Dorothy.
The reason?
I'm an idiot and remembered AFTER I bought the Dorothy costume that I had purchased a Snow White costume for last year thinking I'd go to some snazzy Halloween party and didn't. Thus, I have two costumes, both of which require red, sparkly shoes. So I'm glad I bought those this year to complete both costumes!
Now, if I can just learn to walk in those shoes ... three inch heels are not something I wear on a regular basis. Bah! Watch me fall over before I even get in or out of the car. D'oh!
I did tell Mom that maybe I would meet a prince at the Halloween party I'm attending this year. She exuberantly said, "Yes! Maybe you will!" Ha, ha, ha. Yeah, right. Don't hold your breath folks! I didn't eat a poisoned apple or sleep for a gazillion years or work for lousy step-sisters or anything else princess-y. Therefore, no prince. Just a bunch of idiot boys who wouldn't know what hit them if it announced itself first.
At least I'll have good company on the way there and back. Thank heavens for awesome girlfriends that come as my posse!
The reason?
I'm an idiot and remembered AFTER I bought the Dorothy costume that I had purchased a Snow White costume for last year thinking I'd go to some snazzy Halloween party and didn't. Thus, I have two costumes, both of which require red, sparkly shoes. So I'm glad I bought those this year to complete both costumes!
Now, if I can just learn to walk in those shoes ... three inch heels are not something I wear on a regular basis. Bah! Watch me fall over before I even get in or out of the car. D'oh!
I did tell Mom that maybe I would meet a prince at the Halloween party I'm attending this year. She exuberantly said, "Yes! Maybe you will!" Ha, ha, ha. Yeah, right. Don't hold your breath folks! I didn't eat a poisoned apple or sleep for a gazillion years or work for lousy step-sisters or anything else princess-y. Therefore, no prince. Just a bunch of idiot boys who wouldn't know what hit them if it announced itself first.
At least I'll have good company on the way there and back. Thank heavens for awesome girlfriends that come as my posse!
10/19/10
I decided on ...
Decision made.
I'm going to be Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz for Halloween. Red shoes and all.
Suppose I can take my dog with me to any Halloween Parties? That would TOTALLY complete the outfit, yeah? Yeah.
Let's just say that Halloween is NOT cheap. Between the pumpkin carving, fun activities, oodles of candy, costumes, accessories, decorations, and everything else, Halloween is becoming more expensive than Christmas. There's something wrong with that picture. Not that Christmas is all about money, but when did Halloween become all about everything BUT the little kiddies who come knocking on the door? Plus, we've forgotten neighborhoods and gone for trunk-or-treats. What kid needs 40 pounds of candy?! Good grief.
The one thing I AM looking forward to is making that stew in a pumpkin. Mmmm. That's good stuff! There's something about eating a warm, flavorful meal out of a pumpkin. It's a lot of work, but so worth it! Bring on Halloween!!!
I'm going to be Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz for Halloween. Red shoes and all.
Suppose I can take my dog with me to any Halloween Parties? That would TOTALLY complete the outfit, yeah? Yeah.
Let's just say that Halloween is NOT cheap. Between the pumpkin carving, fun activities, oodles of candy, costumes, accessories, decorations, and everything else, Halloween is becoming more expensive than Christmas. There's something wrong with that picture. Not that Christmas is all about money, but when did Halloween become all about everything BUT the little kiddies who come knocking on the door? Plus, we've forgotten neighborhoods and gone for trunk-or-treats. What kid needs 40 pounds of candy?! Good grief.
The one thing I AM looking forward to is making that stew in a pumpkin. Mmmm. That's good stuff! There's something about eating a warm, flavorful meal out of a pumpkin. It's a lot of work, but so worth it! Bring on Halloween!!!
10/18/10
The one where I went postal ...
The Primary Program. Need I say more?
Well, I will anyway. Because yesterday at our practice, I lost it. Went postal on the children. Yes, on the children!
Here's the scoop:
I am the Junior Primary pianist. The Senior Primary pianist has to play the organ, so I volunteered to play for the whole program. This was the first time both sections of the Primary had been together to practice. There was a lot of organized chaos, but I was so pleased with the little Junior peeps. They were reverent and listening and trying their best to sing the songs and get the words right. Go team!
During every song we sang, there was some yelling. At first, I thought it was a few of the smaller ones singing loud (because they don't know the difference sometimes between singing loud and yelling). Before long, I realized it was NOT the little people. It was the oldest boys who were sitting behind me.
Well, I let it go for a bit. The senior music leader wasn't there, so one of the Presidency was helping with the music. We got to the song "The Church of Jesus Christ" - one of the kids' all-time favorite songs to sing. They always sing it with gusto. The Junior chorister taught the kids they are singing their testimony. And it's the one song they know all the words to without hesitation. It didn't surprise me that they sang VERY loudly.
Then, this overwhelming feeling of anger welled up in my throat. The oldest boys were yelling - actually, it was more like screaming - every time the words "church" or "Jesus Christ" were sung in the song. I couldn't take it anymore!
I stood up from the piano bench and gave them what for, basically saying they were singing a song about my Savior and that was NOT the way the song should be sung. Here are these boys, sitting behind the sacrament table, screaming the words Jesus Christ and thinking it was funny. These are the boys that will pass the sacrament to me in the next two years. And that's how they treat the words Jesus Christ?! I don't think so!!!
Well, with tears in my eyes, I nicely told them where to go and re-played the song introduction. Everyone (except those boys) sang the song again, only this time it was much more quiet and respectful. After church, I went back and apologized to the Presidency saying I shouldn't have lost my cool, etc. They all said the same thing - "You don't need to apologize!" Little did I know that the Primary President had gone out to look for members of the Bishopric to come and sit with the boys. When she couldn't find anyone, she came back to the chapel, only to hear me chew them out.
Oh man. I feel bad for going postal, but there is no way I will allow someone (especially someone who knows better!) to disrespect my Savior that way. Later, I told Mom that it kind of felt good to do it because now I knew I was capable of standing up when things counted - when it mattered. And that I wasn't afraid to speak my mind and say, "Hey, that is NOT how you speak about Jesus Christ." Hopefully, that means I will also say the same things if I'm ever being tortured. Or maimed. Or anything else that's bound to happen with the Second Coming as the world is being burned.
Honestly, I'm not one that gets mad like that a lot. Things bother me, sure, but I don't usually speak out about it because I'm more of a peacemaker - I just want everyone to get along with and love each other. Guess we'll see what happens next week when we do the program for the whole congregation. Start praying now that those older boys behave because NOBODY wants to see me stand up and give them what for during the meeting.
Do you suppose I'm going to be "cast out" for going postal on the Primary children?
Well, I will anyway. Because yesterday at our practice, I lost it. Went postal on the children. Yes, on the children!
Here's the scoop:
I am the Junior Primary pianist. The Senior Primary pianist has to play the organ, so I volunteered to play for the whole program. This was the first time both sections of the Primary had been together to practice. There was a lot of organized chaos, but I was so pleased with the little Junior peeps. They were reverent and listening and trying their best to sing the songs and get the words right. Go team!
During every song we sang, there was some yelling. At first, I thought it was a few of the smaller ones singing loud (because they don't know the difference sometimes between singing loud and yelling). Before long, I realized it was NOT the little people. It was the oldest boys who were sitting behind me.
Well, I let it go for a bit. The senior music leader wasn't there, so one of the Presidency was helping with the music. We got to the song "The Church of Jesus Christ" - one of the kids' all-time favorite songs to sing. They always sing it with gusto. The Junior chorister taught the kids they are singing their testimony. And it's the one song they know all the words to without hesitation. It didn't surprise me that they sang VERY loudly.
Then, this overwhelming feeling of anger welled up in my throat. The oldest boys were yelling - actually, it was more like screaming - every time the words "church" or "Jesus Christ" were sung in the song. I couldn't take it anymore!
I stood up from the piano bench and gave them what for, basically saying they were singing a song about my Savior and that was NOT the way the song should be sung. Here are these boys, sitting behind the sacrament table, screaming the words Jesus Christ and thinking it was funny. These are the boys that will pass the sacrament to me in the next two years. And that's how they treat the words Jesus Christ?! I don't think so!!!
Well, with tears in my eyes, I nicely told them where to go and re-played the song introduction. Everyone (except those boys) sang the song again, only this time it was much more quiet and respectful. After church, I went back and apologized to the Presidency saying I shouldn't have lost my cool, etc. They all said the same thing - "You don't need to apologize!" Little did I know that the Primary President had gone out to look for members of the Bishopric to come and sit with the boys. When she couldn't find anyone, she came back to the chapel, only to hear me chew them out.
Oh man. I feel bad for going postal, but there is no way I will allow someone (especially someone who knows better!) to disrespect my Savior that way. Later, I told Mom that it kind of felt good to do it because now I knew I was capable of standing up when things counted - when it mattered. And that I wasn't afraid to speak my mind and say, "Hey, that is NOT how you speak about Jesus Christ." Hopefully, that means I will also say the same things if I'm ever being tortured. Or maimed. Or anything else that's bound to happen with the Second Coming as the world is being burned.
Honestly, I'm not one that gets mad like that a lot. Things bother me, sure, but I don't usually speak out about it because I'm more of a peacemaker - I just want everyone to get along with and love each other. Guess we'll see what happens next week when we do the program for the whole congregation. Start praying now that those older boys behave because NOBODY wants to see me stand up and give them what for during the meeting.
Do you suppose I'm going to be "cast out" for going postal on the Primary children?
10/14/10
Word usage that drives me crazy
The word is anyway - NOT anyways.
Don't say "for reals" when it's "for real."
And it's I/he/she said - NOT says.
Please don't say, "She goes or he goes..." It's not proper.
Argh. I don't know why, but incorrect word usage drives me crazy!
Whatever people. Just start using words correctly and we'll be fine.
Today is October 14th. It's my BFF's birthday. Ah, good memories with Shauna Bunanna. I don't remember NOT knowing her. We've been through thick and thin, fun and sad, and everything in between. Our backyards were connected by a hole in the fence. We spent days and nights together. We played house, school, Barbies, and music together. It's been an amazing 33 years. Who can say they've had a best friend for that many years? And who can say they've been best friends with someone since the day they were born? Pretty amazing.
There ain't nothin' 'bout Shauna or my friendship with her that drives me crazy.
Should ain't be on the list of word usage that drives me crazy? Nah.
Don't say "for reals" when it's "for real."
And it's I/he/she said - NOT says.
Please don't say, "She goes or he goes..." It's not proper.
Argh. I don't know why, but incorrect word usage drives me crazy!
Whatever people. Just start using words correctly and we'll be fine.
Today is October 14th. It's my BFF's birthday. Ah, good memories with Shauna Bunanna. I don't remember NOT knowing her. We've been through thick and thin, fun and sad, and everything in between. Our backyards were connected by a hole in the fence. We spent days and nights together. We played house, school, Barbies, and music together. It's been an amazing 33 years. Who can say they've had a best friend for that many years? And who can say they've been best friends with someone since the day they were born? Pretty amazing.
There ain't nothin' 'bout Shauna or my friendship with her that drives me crazy.
Should ain't be on the list of word usage that drives me crazy? Nah.
10/13/10
That's not a valid reason
There's been a lot of broo-ha-ha (however you spell it) over tax hikes for families in the very near future. Supposedly, Obama said they wouldn't increase taxes for those who make less than $250k a year. Uh, yeah, that includes a LOT of people.
After reading the report about the tax hikes and discussing it some, I heard someone (single) say, "Well, one more reason I'll never get married." What the?! That's not a valid reason. Sure, the comment could have been made in jest, but really? I don't even get the thinking behind that. You don't want to be taxed more, so you avoid finding an eternal mate and having children in order to get out of it? Wow. That's gotta be a marker of some kind of insanity. Better yet, I think it's the best example of selfishness I've ever heard. Why not say instead, "I like having my time, money, and interests to myself. Therefore, I'll never get married." But nnnnnnnno. You gotta use some dumb excuse about tax hikes to try and cover your selfishness. Genius.
Instead of ending on a negative thought, I'd like to say how miraculous and amazing and wonderful it is that 33 Chilean miners are being rescued today. They have spent 69 days in a mine. The 15-20 minute ride in a capsule to daylight has got to be the longest ride of their lives. Imagine how they must feel seeing their families for the first time in months. Knowing they can have a real meal for dinner tonight. Realizing that time has passed while they've been enclosed in a hole 2,000 or more feet underground. Wow. How incredible is it that they have now been saved and get to go back to "normal" life? It's truly a miracle of huge proportions.
Betcha none of them are worried about tax hikes. And I betcha none of them would let tax hikes keep them from finding and marrying the love of their life and having kids that they can tell their amazing story to as they grow up. Betcha the last thing on their mind is being selfish. Hope it doesn't take such dramatic events for other people to stop being selfish. They could really learn a lesson from those miners.
After reading the report about the tax hikes and discussing it some, I heard someone (single) say, "Well, one more reason I'll never get married." What the?! That's not a valid reason. Sure, the comment could have been made in jest, but really? I don't even get the thinking behind that. You don't want to be taxed more, so you avoid finding an eternal mate and having children in order to get out of it? Wow. That's gotta be a marker of some kind of insanity. Better yet, I think it's the best example of selfishness I've ever heard. Why not say instead, "I like having my time, money, and interests to myself. Therefore, I'll never get married." But nnnnnnnno. You gotta use some dumb excuse about tax hikes to try and cover your selfishness. Genius.
Instead of ending on a negative thought, I'd like to say how miraculous and amazing and wonderful it is that 33 Chilean miners are being rescued today. They have spent 69 days in a mine. The 15-20 minute ride in a capsule to daylight has got to be the longest ride of their lives. Imagine how they must feel seeing their families for the first time in months. Knowing they can have a real meal for dinner tonight. Realizing that time has passed while they've been enclosed in a hole 2,000 or more feet underground. Wow. How incredible is it that they have now been saved and get to go back to "normal" life? It's truly a miracle of huge proportions.
Betcha none of them are worried about tax hikes. And I betcha none of them would let tax hikes keep them from finding and marrying the love of their life and having kids that they can tell their amazing story to as they grow up. Betcha the last thing on their mind is being selfish. Hope it doesn't take such dramatic events for other people to stop being selfish. They could really learn a lesson from those miners.
10/12/10
Perceptions
Perceptions = 90% of our truth
I firmly believe that. We only see what we want to see and hear what we want to hear.
Case in point: Recently, I planned an activity. The day before said activity, I intended to ask a certain person if they would like to come with me. Then, certain person mentioned they had plans with friends the evening of the planned activity, so I didn't invite them. Later, I invited another person to the activity.
The first person then told others who were at the activity that they never get invited to do anything, that they are always left out, etc. HOWEVER, the "uninvited" person is only seeing and hearing what they want to see. Instead of going directly to the person (me) that didn't invite them and asking about the reasons they were not invited, they made assumptions and unfounded accusations.
The stupid thing is that what they want to see and what they want to hear is complete untruth! Their perception equals 90% of their truth, and their perception is totally (100%) wrong. Maybe people should check their facts before making judgments instead of basing everything on perceptions. If you're going to base everything on perceptions, learn to ask questions first and go directly to the source before assuming you know what's going on.
Otherwise, remember that YOUR perception is not even .001% of MY truth, and that means you're basically crazy and have no clue what you're talking about.
I firmly believe that. We only see what we want to see and hear what we want to hear.
Case in point: Recently, I planned an activity. The day before said activity, I intended to ask a certain person if they would like to come with me. Then, certain person mentioned they had plans with friends the evening of the planned activity, so I didn't invite them. Later, I invited another person to the activity.
The first person then told others who were at the activity that they never get invited to do anything, that they are always left out, etc. HOWEVER, the "uninvited" person is only seeing and hearing what they want to see. Instead of going directly to the person (me) that didn't invite them and asking about the reasons they were not invited, they made assumptions and unfounded accusations.
The stupid thing is that what they want to see and what they want to hear is complete untruth! Their perception equals 90% of their truth, and their perception is totally (100%) wrong. Maybe people should check their facts before making judgments instead of basing everything on perceptions. If you're going to base everything on perceptions, learn to ask questions first and go directly to the source before assuming you know what's going on.
Otherwise, remember that YOUR perception is not even .001% of MY truth, and that means you're basically crazy and have no clue what you're talking about.
10/11/10
Quit Yer Belly-Achin'
Does anyone else ever feel like it's impossible to please certain people? There are some people who won't be happy no matter what you do. To those people, I say, "Quit yer belly-achin'!"
After all, I wasn't sent here to live my life for other people, was I? Wasn't I sent here to learn from my own mistakes and be responsible for my own happiness? Because, if we were really sent here to make everyone else happy, we'd all be complete failures!
That means I can't always extend an invitation to everyone, I can't always include everyone, I can't solve everyone's problems, and I definitely can't be the source of happiness for everyone on the planet.
To those who think that I should make them happy and include them in everything I do and invite them to every place I go, I say again (even louder), "Quit yer belly-achin'!" Take some initiative and find ways to be happy on your own. Find places to go and things to do without waiting for an invitation. Better yet, actually plan something that you can invite others to do with you. Now THAT is a novel idea!
And one last word to the wise: the more you complain and carry on and talk smack and whine about others and the "injustices" you've been subjected to, the fewer invitations you'll get and the less likely you'll be included in anything. So cowboy up and ...
QUIT YER BELLY-ACHIN'!!!
After all, I wasn't sent here to live my life for other people, was I? Wasn't I sent here to learn from my own mistakes and be responsible for my own happiness? Because, if we were really sent here to make everyone else happy, we'd all be complete failures!
That means I can't always extend an invitation to everyone, I can't always include everyone, I can't solve everyone's problems, and I definitely can't be the source of happiness for everyone on the planet.
To those who think that I should make them happy and include them in everything I do and invite them to every place I go, I say again (even louder), "Quit yer belly-achin'!" Take some initiative and find ways to be happy on your own. Find places to go and things to do without waiting for an invitation. Better yet, actually plan something that you can invite others to do with you. Now THAT is a novel idea!
And one last word to the wise: the more you complain and carry on and talk smack and whine about others and the "injustices" you've been subjected to, the fewer invitations you'll get and the less likely you'll be included in anything. So cowboy up and ...
QUIT YER BELLY-ACHIN'!!!
10/7/10
Fragile
Dictionary.com's definition of fragile is: easily broken, shattered, or damaged; delicate; brittle; frail. That about covers it.
It's a pretty small word that covers a lot of ground. After all, there are a lot of fragile things. Life is fragile - it can end at any moment. Feelings are fragile - they can be hurt with just a few words. Children are fragile - one bad memory can scar them for life. Friendships are fragile - you can lose a friend in seconds if you're not honest or trustworthy.
There are a lot more things in life that are fragile. I'm not sure what drove me to write this post. Often, I think we forget how much we have and how it can all be lost in a matter of seconds, sometimes by the choices others make. Maybe that's why it's so important to enjoy the small things and take advantage of things like smelling the roses. We never know when those moments will be our last.
Wow ... it sounds kind of depressing, but that's not at all what I meant to convey. I'm glad that life is fragile. It solidifies my knowledge that a loving Heavenly Father exists and knows what is best for me. My job is to enjoy the blessings I've been given and show my gratitude for them by serving others and trusting that the fragile moments (which will come) are the best teaching tools in mortality. That way, when we are called Home we have no regrets and leave nothing but good behind for those who must go on without us.
Guess that means all of us, no matter our situation or economic status or educational background, are fragile. What say we start treating each other that way? Ah, yes. I see world peace covering the whole earth right now ....
It's a pretty small word that covers a lot of ground. After all, there are a lot of fragile things. Life is fragile - it can end at any moment. Feelings are fragile - they can be hurt with just a few words. Children are fragile - one bad memory can scar them for life. Friendships are fragile - you can lose a friend in seconds if you're not honest or trustworthy.
There are a lot more things in life that are fragile. I'm not sure what drove me to write this post. Often, I think we forget how much we have and how it can all be lost in a matter of seconds, sometimes by the choices others make. Maybe that's why it's so important to enjoy the small things and take advantage of things like smelling the roses. We never know when those moments will be our last.
Wow ... it sounds kind of depressing, but that's not at all what I meant to convey. I'm glad that life is fragile. It solidifies my knowledge that a loving Heavenly Father exists and knows what is best for me. My job is to enjoy the blessings I've been given and show my gratitude for them by serving others and trusting that the fragile moments (which will come) are the best teaching tools in mortality. That way, when we are called Home we have no regrets and leave nothing but good behind for those who must go on without us.
Guess that means all of us, no matter our situation or economic status or educational background, are fragile. What say we start treating each other that way? Ah, yes. I see world peace covering the whole earth right now ....
10/5/10
Guster Love
My favorite group is:
I found them ages ago when a friend of mine suggested I listen to Snow Patrol because it was her favorite group at the time. Well, I didn't really get into Snow Patrol, but iTunes suggested a group called Guster. Just for the heck of it, I listened to some of their songs.
That very day, I downloaded every song of Guster's I could find. :o) I'm not impulsive at all.
It's been a while since they've released anything new. And then, a few months ago, I got an update that they had a new album coming out today. I immediately pre-ordered from Amazon and am happily listening to my favorite group.
The album is called:
These are some of the lyrics from the new album:
Oh yeah. I'd also like to say that Blogger is dumb because it makes you THINK you can upload several images at once, but you really can't. Unless you want to insert them all at the same time. Not cool, Blogger. But you haven't ruined my day. I have Guster love!
10/4/10
Well, Hello Mr. Sexy
I had to make a phone call this morning to get some school-related junk worked out.
A Mr. Sexy answered the phone. I imagine he looked something like this:
That is the actor from North and South. He's Mr. Sexy, too. Sometimes I think it would be cool to have visual phone conversations. That way you could see exactly what the person on the other end looked like. Maybe you could actually meet more people that way, too. You'd be more likely to take an interest in someone if you could put a face to their voice/name, right? Hm.
On a completely opposite sidenote, I'd really like to dress up for Halloween this year. There's a big party on the 30th that I'd like to attend, but that means I've got to come up with something creative for not a lot of money. Suggestions?
One year for a work shindig I asked my sister, Lisa, to make me a clown costume. It rocked! My hair was longer then and we rolled it up really tight in curlers (thanks to Mom) the night before and sprayed it green. It was the best costume I've ever worn. Unfortunately, that costume is WAY too big now, so I've got to come up with something else. If you've ever searched for Halloween costumes online or in a store, they are not cheap. And I'm not into the "dress like a whore because you can get away with it one night a year" thing. Besides, the fun part of Halloween is not the scary (or skanky) stuff. It's the cutesy things - like pumpkins, scarecrows, and funny witches.
Too bad I don't have a Mr. Sexy to wear on my arm. That would be costume enough!
A Mr. Sexy answered the phone. I imagine he looked something like this:
On a completely opposite sidenote, I'd really like to dress up for Halloween this year. There's a big party on the 30th that I'd like to attend, but that means I've got to come up with something creative for not a lot of money. Suggestions?
One year for a work shindig I asked my sister, Lisa, to make me a clown costume. It rocked! My hair was longer then and we rolled it up really tight in curlers (thanks to Mom) the night before and sprayed it green. It was the best costume I've ever worn. Unfortunately, that costume is WAY too big now, so I've got to come up with something else. If you've ever searched for Halloween costumes online or in a store, they are not cheap. And I'm not into the "dress like a whore because you can get away with it one night a year" thing. Besides, the fun part of Halloween is not the scary (or skanky) stuff. It's the cutesy things - like pumpkins, scarecrows, and funny witches.
Too bad I don't have a Mr. Sexy to wear on my arm. That would be costume enough!
9/30/10
Geez!
For months now, I have been trying to figure out how to center the picture in the header of my blog. You'd think it was brain surgery or something! Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeez!
Well, heck, I finally figured it out. All I had to do was type some gobbledy-gook after the header jazz of the template and voila! Instant photo centering. The margin had to be zero auto or some crazy crap like that.
Why do they make it so difficult? I mean, they make blogging accessible to anyone, but then force you to get a degree in computer programming to do what you want with it. Why don't they just have a "center photo header" button you can click on in the template design? Wouldn't that simplify things for everyone? Dumb it down a bit!
Maybe the computer whizzes are actually running Blogger. Maybe that's why they do it - to make you feel like an incompetent idiot. That way, you finally give up and settle for a mediocre-looking blog rather than making it perty to look at. That's how they make you go nuts and eventually send you to the loony bin.
Too bad computer whizzes! You suckers didn't win this time! I figured out your nonsensical programming madness and centered my header picture! Take that! And I'm going to give out your secrets to others that want to center their header picture, too! Nice try getting my blog to suck! You lose, I win!!!
Whoa. Maybe I better admit myself to the loony bin, huh? Don't answer that. Geez!
Well, heck, I finally figured it out. All I had to do was type some gobbledy-gook after the header jazz of the template and voila! Instant photo centering. The margin had to be zero auto or some crazy crap like that.
Why do they make it so difficult? I mean, they make blogging accessible to anyone, but then force you to get a degree in computer programming to do what you want with it. Why don't they just have a "center photo header" button you can click on in the template design? Wouldn't that simplify things for everyone? Dumb it down a bit!
Maybe the computer whizzes are actually running Blogger. Maybe that's why they do it - to make you feel like an incompetent idiot. That way, you finally give up and settle for a mediocre-looking blog rather than making it perty to look at. That's how they make you go nuts and eventually send you to the loony bin.
Too bad computer whizzes! You suckers didn't win this time! I figured out your nonsensical programming madness and centered my header picture! Take that! And I'm going to give out your secrets to others that want to center their header picture, too! Nice try getting my blog to suck! You lose, I win!!!
Whoa. Maybe I better admit myself to the loony bin, huh? Don't answer that. Geez!
9/29/10
Worth Watching
The video at this link is totally worth watching.
You can also copy or paste this address
(http://www.eastvalleyproductions.com/blog.cfm?postID=31)
to watch the video.
There are some breathtakingly beautiful pictures.
The music is very fitting and peaceful.
I'm truly blessed to have a Savior that loves me, watches over me, and paid a high price for me - all for a chance to return and be with Him again someday.
When nobody else loves me, I know He does.
One day, I hope to be like Him.
Until then, I hope I represent Him well.
I love Him.
9/24/10
Weirdos
Why do all the weirdos want to talk to me?
Before I lost weight, nobody ever approached me in a store. If I asked for help (i.e. where's the ...?) I would get a response, but strangers never approached me or talked to me.
The other night, I was at Walmart. I put some screen protectors in my cart and the guy in the electronics departments asked if I needed any help. Uh, no. I believe I already put the item in my cart, but thanks for checking?
Shortly after that, I looked in the camera section to price SD cards. In the process of looking for them, I found a free disc to edit photos, etc. I stood there looking at it and a guy came out of nowhere and asked if I needed help finding anything. When I mentioned the SD cards, he walked me over to them and asked about what size I wanted, how many gigs, etc. I said, "Oh, I'm only pricing them right now." He went on and on about how different cameras take different sizes and how I need to find out what my camera holds. Duh! I know what my camera takes; I wanted to price them - that's all.
What makes the whole scenario worse is that it's always the weirdos that approach me now. I kind of liked it better when nobody ever talked to me. :o)
The first guy was okay, but he kinda followed me around the department and eyed me. It was a little freaky. The second guy was okay, too, but he had terrible teeth and a high-pitched voice. Don't get me wrong - I'm not judging these boys/men/guys on their appearance, but it definitely adds to the weirdness of them "needing" to help me with something.
Why the weirdos?! Why can't it be the cute, sandy-haired, gorgeous smile, you're-a-hottie guy at Costco that asks if I need help with anything? And then why can't he follow me to the checkout, load up my cart, and offer to help me to my car with it? And then ask for my name and number and if I'm free on Friday night. Hee hee! Yeah, right. Like that kind of thing ever happens.
Don't I deserve better than the weirdos?
Before I lost weight, nobody ever approached me in a store. If I asked for help (i.e. where's the ...?) I would get a response, but strangers never approached me or talked to me.
The other night, I was at Walmart. I put some screen protectors in my cart and the guy in the electronics departments asked if I needed any help. Uh, no. I believe I already put the item in my cart, but thanks for checking?
Shortly after that, I looked in the camera section to price SD cards. In the process of looking for them, I found a free disc to edit photos, etc. I stood there looking at it and a guy came out of nowhere and asked if I needed help finding anything. When I mentioned the SD cards, he walked me over to them and asked about what size I wanted, how many gigs, etc. I said, "Oh, I'm only pricing them right now." He went on and on about how different cameras take different sizes and how I need to find out what my camera holds. Duh! I know what my camera takes; I wanted to price them - that's all.
What makes the whole scenario worse is that it's always the weirdos that approach me now. I kind of liked it better when nobody ever talked to me. :o)
The first guy was okay, but he kinda followed me around the department and eyed me. It was a little freaky. The second guy was okay, too, but he had terrible teeth and a high-pitched voice. Don't get me wrong - I'm not judging these boys/men/guys on their appearance, but it definitely adds to the weirdness of them "needing" to help me with something.
Why the weirdos?! Why can't it be the cute, sandy-haired, gorgeous smile, you're-a-hottie guy at Costco that asks if I need help with anything? And then why can't he follow me to the checkout, load up my cart, and offer to help me to my car with it? And then ask for my name and number and if I'm free on Friday night. Hee hee! Yeah, right. Like that kind of thing ever happens.
Don't I deserve better than the weirdos?
Apples and Onions
Don't ever put apples and onions in the same refrigerator drawer. I learned that lesson the hard way this week. Every apple I have eaten has had an onion aftertaste. Apples are one of my most favorite fruits, but that's kinda been soured this week.
The whole experience reminded me of the apples and onions analogy. In Young Women's (years ago), we had an object lesson where a bunch of apples and two onions were covered in caramel. The onions were the biggest of the bunch. We all selected which "apple" we wanted, and as we went to take a bite our leaders talked about how outward appearances don't always match what a person is like on the inside. The onions were the biggest and most round of the bunch. On the outside, they were covered with caramel-sweet goodness. But on the inside, they were onions - bitter, sour onions.
Luckily, those who took the onions didn't have to eat them. The treat, obviously, for that evening was carameled apples. They didn't taste quite as good as they would have before the object lesson, but the point was made. Things are not always what they appear to be. People are not always what we assume they are.
This week has been a reminder to be careful not to make assumptions about anything or anyone. Oh yes, and also to keep my onions out of the fruit drawer in the fridge.
The whole experience reminded me of the apples and onions analogy. In Young Women's (years ago), we had an object lesson where a bunch of apples and two onions were covered in caramel. The onions were the biggest of the bunch. We all selected which "apple" we wanted, and as we went to take a bite our leaders talked about how outward appearances don't always match what a person is like on the inside. The onions were the biggest and most round of the bunch. On the outside, they were covered with caramel-sweet goodness. But on the inside, they were onions - bitter, sour onions.
Luckily, those who took the onions didn't have to eat them. The treat, obviously, for that evening was carameled apples. They didn't taste quite as good as they would have before the object lesson, but the point was made. Things are not always what they appear to be. People are not always what we assume they are.
This week has been a reminder to be careful not to make assumptions about anything or anyone. Oh yes, and also to keep my onions out of the fruit drawer in the fridge.
9/22/10
Funny Hot Guy
Want to watch a funny show? Watch this show
With these funny people
And this hot guy
It only lasted two seasons, but the show is funny! Thank heavens I don't work in a lunatic workplace with a boss like Veronica (Portia). Honestly, I'd throw myself out the window if I had to deal with her. But it would be nice to have a cute, sensitive, single, do-what's-right guy there to look at. That might make the whole 8-5 thing worth it.
By the way, Veridian scares me because, well, I think it might actually be more true than anyone knows. I swear some of the things companies invent are actually made to torture us (i.e. high heels, nylons, belts, anything restrictive or uncomfortable), but they do it with an air of "You're gonna love this!" And sadly, we all buy into it because we really are convinced we're gonna love it. It frightens me just a little.
Then I look at pictures of Jay Harrington and suddenly I'm all better. Hm. It's amazing what a pretty face with a little 5 o'clock shadow will do for a girl.
9/20/10
Editing and Imaging
Started a new class today. They expect me to edit images. Ha! Crazy nuts.
Actually, this should be a really good experience. I'll have to take pictures, edit them, enhance them, etc. Since we're having some excellent colors this year on the mountains, it will be the perfect opportunity to hit the streets and get some shots of the beautifully colored leaves.
My final project for the course is one of the following: scrapbook photo album, one-year wall calendar (I think this sounds like the most fun), web photo gallery, collection of greeting cards, mural, movie poster, advertisement, or portfolio. Plus, it has to include a bunch of things that I have no idea about. Like a mask. What's a mask? That's something you wear on Halloween. Not something you do to a picture. Right?
Anyway, this should be an interesting class. And what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. At the end of nine weeks, I should be The Incredible Hulk!
(Let's just say I'm glad there's an "excuse" to take some pictures. I haven't had fun taking pictures for a long time!)
Actually, this should be a really good experience. I'll have to take pictures, edit them, enhance them, etc. Since we're having some excellent colors this year on the mountains, it will be the perfect opportunity to hit the streets and get some shots of the beautifully colored leaves.
My final project for the course is one of the following: scrapbook photo album, one-year wall calendar (I think this sounds like the most fun), web photo gallery, collection of greeting cards, mural, movie poster, advertisement, or portfolio. Plus, it has to include a bunch of things that I have no idea about. Like a mask. What's a mask? That's something you wear on Halloween. Not something you do to a picture. Right?
Anyway, this should be an interesting class. And what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. At the end of nine weeks, I should be The Incredible Hulk!
(Let's just say I'm glad there's an "excuse" to take some pictures. I haven't had fun taking pictures for a long time!)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)