Meddyphor

Dallyings

2012-02-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

So...

(When starting a blog post, I always write "so" as if you and I are in the middle of a conversation and I want to talk about something else OR you and I have run out of things to talk about and I'm doing a mental scan of thoughts that most readily come to the surface of my brain. Usually, I delete it. But today I will leave it there.)

The past couple weeks, thoughts have been rolling around in my head. I have started posts, restarted posts, rewritten posts, questioned posts, deleted posts. I've let my husband read posts, followed by discussion about what is ok to post in this blog-o-mine. I even started a list of topics that I want to write about. Hmmm. And while I wait for words to fit together and properly express what it is I'm feeling/thinking/dreaming, other people write what I've been stuggling to say.

So...Here are some links to things I've been reading/watching/listening to that have inspired me these last couple weeks.

C. Jane Vlog: Recapping the Love Story C.Jane spent the last few posts on the 5 loves of her life. I found them heartwarming and heartbreaking. The last one she writes is about her husband and this video is an interview with him about his reaction to the series. I find their honesty joyous. It's easy to look in from the outside and thing everything is rosey especially when the only way you know a person is through their blog. The insights she learns in her first year of marriage help mine feel a little more normal.

On the topic of happy lives, I found My (Not So) Storybook Life: A Tale of Friendship and Faith on this blog as a giveaway (I try not to enter giveaways). It arrived last night on my doorstep via a creepy knock from the UPS guy. I opened the package and promptly read 60 pages. She cleaverly mixes her literature roll models into modern, everyday experiences with her family and friends.

I've struggled a little lately with the political climate of this country. Why does there have to be extremism and conflict and misunderstanding? In thinking and reading about things, I found these two posts and this talk. I will let them speak for themselves (although I might come back to Sister Beck's talk another time. She's AmAzinG!); they pretty eloquently state some things that I've been feeling.

On a lighter note, my next knitting project is this Grecian Rib Scarf. I can't decide if I like the look or the name more. Wish me luck with those tiny size 5 needles.

I also pin other things I dream about on Pinterest.

There is a State That is So Great

2012-01-19T17:44:00.001-08:00

and Texas is it’s name-o! (sung to the tune of Bingo.)

For New Year’s we joined my mom’s extended family in Houston. We gather every few years, especially when my uncle and aunt come from New Zealand. John and I were the last to arrive on Friday. We had a fun weekend of food, museums, movies, and bonding. John got to meet those that couldn’t make it to the wedding and I met two of my cousin’s kids.

Jenny with Belle

Saturday we went to the Houston Fine Arts Museum to see the exhibit on King Tut. One of the reasons we know so much about him is that his contemporaries tried to erase all memory of him because his father tried to convert Egypt to monotheism. Since no one knew about him, there were fewer looters looking for his tomb.

For NYE, my aunt and uncle hosted an open house for friends in the area. John’s friend from college, Dave, and his family, Julie, Bailey, and Maddie, came. It was so fun to visit with them. After the open house, the cousins relocated to my cousin’s house to ring in the new year.
On Sunday, John and I went to church. It turns out we attended the ward that my mom was a member of when she lived in Houston in the 70s. That afternoon, we went to the San Jacinto Monument. It’s a memorial on the battlefield when the Texans won their independence from Mexico.

Dad “photoboming” my picture of Jenny

The monument

Sunday night we went on a ride through a neighborhood of lovely homes decorated with gorgeous Christmas lights!

These were strands of lights dangling from the branches. John is standing under the tree above.

It was a fun way to start the year!

A Very Flakey Christmas

2011-12-29T03:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas started early with my family Thursday

Then continued with meeting this sweet girl - and her mom and sister

and sliding around on the ice pond

and tracking Santa

and cute Christmas outfits

and cousins playing

and family gathering

and snow!

Spreading Cheer

2011-12-27T16:32:00.001-08:00

I was first introduced to Mexican Hot Chocolate as a junior in college when my folklore professor brought some in for us to try during our section on Mexican folklore. I buy it occasionally and this place in Del Ray has a great version called Lucy. I found a recipe for it and thought it would make for great Christmas presents.

It was really easy to make. I borrowed a food processor, mixed everything together, and put it in the food processor a little at a time. To make it present-ready, I put the chocolate in 16oz mason jars, leaving room for little marshmallows.

Using the lid as a template, I traced it onto Christmas scrapbook paper to insert in between the parts of the lid.

Next using Picnik, I created little tags that I printed on the back of snowflake scrapbook paper and cut them out with scrapbooking scissors and punched a hole in the corner.

With some ribbon, the tags were secured to the jars and bags.

It Happened At Christmas

2011-12-22T13:28:00.000-08:00

As a birthday present, my husband gave me How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I was so pleased. My sister has this amazing collection of Christmas movie classics that I've missed having around. I do have a few: Elf, It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, Mr. Kruger's Christmas.

But lots of movies happen at Christmas: You've Got Mail, Serendipity, Home Alone, Little Women, The Shop Around the Corner. There are probably more, in fact I see listing for movies like Die Hard and Lethal Weapon. Never seen them. (For the record, It's a Wonderful Life just happens to end during Christmas. The reason it's shown at Christmas time so much is the people that owned the movie forgot to renew the copyright, so the networks were able to show it really cheaply.)

My husband and I have been deciding if While You Were Sleeping is a Christmas movie. I say it is, he says it's not. I single this one out because it may be my favorite movie ever ("These mashed potatoes are so creamy!"); I can watch it a lot. I know it doesn't focus on Christmas, or Christ, or Santa Claus. But most of the movie takes place in the week between Christmas and NYE; the family invites Lucy for Christmas; they open presents and have Christmas dinner.

What do you think?

A Christmas Video (or two)

2011-12-21T05:33:00.000-08:00

This may be the cuttest telling of the Christmas Story I've seen in a while. I love the sheep and the star and the cute little angels and....well just watch. Enjoy!

These Christmas videos are also tell the story of the events of Luke 1 & 2 and Matthew 2.

A Christmas Tree Story

2011-12-19T04:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is my favorite time of year.

One year, I started putting up Christmas decorations after Thanksgiving was finished and went non stop all weekend: lights around windows, swag along banisters, trees with ribbon and baubles and handmade trinkets. I was quite possessive of the way the trees and the decorations went up. Christmas felt like my holiday, my time of year, a time I share with the Savior. I was supposed to be born on Christmas Eve, but came a couple weeks early, probably so I could take in all the twinkle lights for that extra time.

As I’ve gotten older, I don’t spend the whole weekend decorating. There were several years, when I was living with roommates, that we did very traditional trees, red and gold. It matched our lovely red couches.

This year, after looking at a few less desirable artificial trees, John and I bought a live tree. My. First. Ever. We found our lovely tree after much discussion and tree holding and wandering. A lovely 6-7 foot Fraser Fir. She smells divine. We brought her home and set her up, but we’re unable to trim her for several days. The appointed day arrived and I wanted the hours to go faster so I could get home. I thought about organizing all the lovely baubles my friend Brittany helped me to put together and even using paper airplanes and left over ribbon from the wedding. I was worried that the idea in my head wouldn’t, couldn’t come out. When John got home, we put on the lights. Happily John got distracted (did I say that?), so I was able to put the ribbon and the ornaments how I liked them. When I was done, she was exactly as I had pictured her. I added and old tablecloth for her skirt. She then told me her name was Myrtle.

For the first time ever, I’ve been able to put my tree topper on the tree. A pretty cream and glitter snowflake. I found it a couple years back. This year it’s extra special since I’m now a Flake.

Can you believe Christmas is almost here? We will be in Evanston, WY by the end of the week!

Hello 30, You Look Fine

2011-12-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

This year, my birthday came in a blink of an eye. I bade farwell to my twenties with a small group of friends and family. As much as I loved my twenties, I'm ready for my thirties. I'm excited to see what will come and what I will become.

And now, a list (one of my favorite things!) of 30 things I'm grateful for/happened to me this year

My husband John. Uhm, so he's pretty great.
Getting married. I was really excited to marry and be sealed to John; I was excited when we celebrate with friends and family; I was excited as we moved into our new place; I was excited to be with him a lot of the time (in fact going to work was torture for a while); but only a few things can compare to sitting in Relief Society a few Sundays after we were married, singing "Families Can Be Together Forever" and having the reality of that sink deep into my soul.
My family. Both my immediate and extended family and my new in-laws. I'm really grateful for the love and warmth I've recognized and felt this year.
My sister Jenny. So she also fits into number 3, but she has been so strong and supportive of me. She never tires and she's resilient and funny and adventurous.
Visiting with my friend Anne and her family. We went up a few weeks ago to spend some time with them before they moved a few states west. Anne and I have been friends for many years. I love her and her little family. As Anne's oldest, Hannah, and I sat on a bench at Longwood Gardens, I asked Hannah, "Did you know I've known you since you were 3 months old?" Looking at me with her sweet face, her eyes wide, she said, "No, I didn't know that." I told her she has gotten so big (she'll be 6 in the spring) and gave her a big hug as my heart filled up so much I could barely breathe.
For Saturday morning walks with Tammy.
Regular scripture study and prayer. I have taken a new approach to my studies - I've been trying to study topically and not necessarily according to the topics in the Topical Guide - and this has made a world of difference. I've studied the women mentioned by name in the Book of Mormon; I've studied the words of Jacob, Nephi's brother. I'm studying mercy, right now.
For friends. New and Old.
For work. Not just my job, but being able to serve and do house work and work out.
Having a temple so close by. I must admit, on most days driving to the temple, I don't mind sitting in traffic. It gives me time to not be in a rush, to let go of things that happened that day, to turn my thoughts to the Lord.
Modern transportation. We took so many trips this year - South Carolina, Wyoming, California, Wyoming, and Wyoming again. Most were in airplanes which makes family far away seeable more often.
Becoming familiar with Wyoming. John's family is there and I really like going there (and I really love flying into SLC!)
For the number 13. That number seems to be a tender mercy. And for the other tender mercies the Lord offers me.
Going with the modern theme, modern communication - email, im, facebook, skype, blogs. I've been able to keep in some contact with people from my mission and friends now spread out around the world. I've been able to "meet" a sister-in-law and their new girls through the marvels of skype while they were living in Taiwan.
Crafts. I've been trying lots of new things - knitting, mod podge, wreaths, digital scrapbooks. I love creating.
Writing. I crave this sometimes. even if it's just for me.
Reading. Why is there not more time in the day?!
For happy suprises. I worry a bit. Too much sometimes. I'm learning to let the Lord guide me and letting myself not feel like I have to be in control of everything.
Decorating/Arranging my own place. Ok so John has some imput too, but it's ours, together.
South Carolina. It will always feel a little like home.
Relief Society. I love this organization and the way it brings sisters in the gospel together. So much good, so much love, so many friends.
Participating in events in my friend's and family's lives - graduations, weddings, engagements, new opportunities, etc.
Talking on the phone with my mom. So she doesn't live far from me, but we call each other a few times a week just to chat.
Discovering I really like database design.
I love that, through the atonment, I can change - change behavior, change, my thoughts, change my heart - and be better
For a husband that so willingly gives of his time and resources to others.
Being a Flake. So there are times where I miss my maiden name, but I'm liking the new name. John has to watch my consumption of things with snowflakes on them.
For yoga. This is something I found this year. I do it in my home with my netflix subscription. It feels so nice.
Quiet time. Time to recharge and collect my thoughts and be ready for the world.
Paper Airplanes and Lemonade...

In the Land of Libraries and Other Magical Places

2011-12-10T23:30:00.000-08:00

The following is a true story.

Once upon a time in far away land called Scotland, the people of the lovely town of Edinburg began recieving gifts. It all started when a librarian at the Scottish Poetry Library found a tree growing from a book. A note was left that said "This is for you in support of libraries, books, words, ideas..." and was signed with the Twitter handle @ByLeavesWeLive. Next the National Library of Scotland received a coffin with a gramaphone. The librarians and the townspeople were quite curious about these new treasures and wondered at their benefactor. With no further explination the gifts continued.

A movie theater received a group of soldiers; The Scotish Storytelling Center (doesn't that sound magical in itself) received a hatching dragon; two showed up at the International Book Festival - a cup of tea with a cupcake and a small man sitting in the edge of the trees; and The Central Lending Library found a magnifying glass. These gifts were carfully displayed in the places found so that all could enjoy them. The people of Edinberg took a vote to decided if the name of the giftgiver should be revealed, if it were ever found out. The townspeople decided that the identity of the giftgiver didn't matter, in fact, they were happy not to know.

Then there was a short pause in the gifts until a librarian at the Poetry Library found a wren sitting next to a pair of gloves and a tiny hat and a note. The note explained that this would be the end of the presents, that the presentgiver had very much enjoyed being able to give these special gifts, and that there were 2 that hadn't yet been found. The Museum of Scotland found a T-Rex and the Writer's Museum found a row of homes.

The End

So this may sound like a bit of fiction, but this really did happen. An anonymous woman, left intricate pieces of art made from books in places all over the city this past year. This story warms my heart as people, places, books, and artifacts were connected. It's amazing what familiar things presented in new ways by unknown persons can do to create a little bit of magic.

To see the collection, see here, here and here (there are pictures in each story). My favorites are the tree, the wren, the T-Rex, and the man in the woods.

Christmas Season Happenings

2011-12-04T11:10:00.001-08:00

Last week, John participated with the Mormon Choir of Washington in the lighting ceremony at the Visitors’ Center at the Washington DC Temple. This kicks off a month of music and lights. The visitors’ center also displays crèches and decorated Christmas trees.

On the second night of the lighting ceremony, choir members are able to bring a guest, so I went with John. It’s amazing to see all the people from different parts of the world, many of them in their traditional dress. Here are some pictures of the choir, one of the trees, and the lights.

Yesterday, John and I drove up to Philly to see my friend Anne and her family. After reading stories and watching the end of Cars, we went to Longwood Gardens. They put up Christmas lights and decorations throughout the garden. In the conservatory, we wandered through the different rooms, with amazing decorations made from the plants in the room. They have a lighted fountain that dances to music. It’s pretty amazing.

At dinner Thatcher shows the girls sugar and salt.        Anne jumps with Hannah, Makennah, & Amelia


Me and Amelia                                         Makennah finds butterfly wings in the gift shop

John and Makennah watch the fountain light show.

In the DuPont house. In the building they had amazing baskets of poinsettias hanging from the ceiling.

In the birdhouse, Christmas decorations and bird’s nests in the Christmas tree.
Makennah kept asking to see the birds. I told her they were sleeping.

There were lots of rooms in the conservatory. This is what we saw when we entered. The lilies smelled divine and they decorated the trees with white hydrangeas.

The next room was also quite large, with more paths, grass, and fountains.

Who knew poinsettias could grow like trees?

This was my favorite: the lights hanging
from the ceiling and the Christmas trees
set up in the water and the tree made of
gingerbread men.

The tree was a frame with potted plants

The hothouse with the roses.

The main Christmas Tree near the entrance decorate with lovely green ornaments.

Ingredient for Happiness

2011-12-01T17:49:00.001-08:00

When I was 5 and in kindergarten we had a p.e. class at least once a week. One day, while sitting and receiving instructions, I tied my shoes together with double knots that I couldn't untie. The teacher scolded me and untied my shoes as the rest of the class went out for the activity. I felt a little like that today.

A little while back I was issued new identification at work with a new badge holder with two slots. Perfect I thought for the other card on my lanyard. After a little pushing, the second card slid in, but the fit was so tight neither card could come back out. It didn't matter much until today.

I needed the id badge to do something but I couldn't get it out. The badge lady told me I was in trouble (she was kidding) but they couldn't do anything about it. My coworkers tried. We used rubber bands, letter openers, erasers, and shear will-power. My manager even tried to help with a pair of pliers. The division head walked in at that moment and decided to join in. With a small screw driver he got one badge out. After a few more minutes of trying, a screw driver, and the pliers the other one came out. Arms, including the division head's, went up in victory.

For a few moments I felt like that little girl standing in the class with the teacher untying her shoes. But instead of embarrassment from another silly thing done, I laughed with the rest of them as they couldn't figure out how I had gotten it in there in the first place and as we came up with new ways to try to get them out. Learning to laugh at one's self seems to be one ingredient to a happy life.

Bow Wreath

2011-11-30T18:21:00.001-08:00

Last week I found this bow wreath on Real Simple and wanted to try it out. Here’s how I made it:

I went to the store to get the things to make it, but found they were all out of foam wreaths. So I bought a wire wreath instead.

I got several bags of multi-color bows. I wanted something bright for my living room, so I got bags with bright red, green, blue, teal, and purple. I opened and sorted 3 bags of bows through the process to get the colors and sizes that I wanted. I ended up with about a bag an a half left over.

Instead of gluing the bows to the wreath, I found that the wires were close enough together that I could work the tab through the wires and they stayed put.

I put the bows close together for a full look.

I hung it with one of those easy release hooks and found some sparkly ribbon to tie to the top. I used some tape to stick the top of the ribbon to the wall.

Do You Know Will?

2011-11-25T15:18:00.001-08:00

Last week, I finished reading Shakespeare: The World as Stage by Bill Bryson. I love Bill Bryson. I've read many of his travel books that take me to the Appalachian Trail, across the USA in a car, and travelling through England. Even though several were read many years ago, I still remember details like him leaving his walking stick against a tree, his description of the Cliffs of Dover, and the multitude of neon signs across America. I always laugh out loud and am entertained throughout the book.

His book about Shakespeare is a biography, part of a series on eminent lives written by noteworthy authors. It's brief at 196 pages and full of humor and descriptions and great analysis. He takes a lot of information about what people have said and written about Shakespeare over the years and tells you what can be backed up by evidence and what is speculation. Mostly everything is speculation since there are few know/surviving facts about Shakespeare and his life.

Bryson does a fantastic job of setting you in the context of Shakespeare's life: who his parents and family were; what Stratford-Upon-Avon and London looked like when he lived there; what the economic, political, and religious issues were; what people ate, how they lived, what laws and taxes citizens had to pay; and what the cultural scene was, especially that of the theater. I felt like I knew more about Shakespeare just by understanding a little bit more about these things.

The last chapter is called "Claimants" and Bryson takes all the conspiracy theories, speculations, and other claims of who authored Shakespeare's work (because how could one man possibly written all these fantastic works by himself) and carefully shows why none of them can be proved and why they are unlikely. The following was one of my favorite paragraphs in the whole book:

"So it needs to be said that nearly all of the anti-Shakespeare sentiment - actually all of it, every bit - involves manipulative scholarship or sweeping misstatements of fact. Shakespeare "never owned a book," a writer for the New York Times gravely informed readers in one doubting article in 2002. The statement cannot actually be refuted, for we know nothing about his incidental possessions. But the writer might just as well have suggested that Shakespeare never owned a pair of shoes or pants. For all the evidence tells us, he spent his life naked from the waist down, as well as bookless, but it is probable that what is lacking is the evidence, not the apparel or the books."

Bryson also points out that no one questioned Shakespeare’s authorship during the first 200 years after his death, even as his plays remained popular during that time.

This book is worth the read; entertaining and educational. It didn’t take long to get through it.

Next up: I’ve started The Hunger Games. I’m only about 3 chapters in, but I was hooked by the beginning of chapter 2. (And seeing the trailer didn’t hurt either.)

Christmas Time!

2011-11-22T18:44:00.001-08:00

I know it’s not quite Thanksgiving and I usually have a rule about Christmas decorations not going up until the day after. This year, for the first time ever, I have to work the day after Thanksgiving. I’ve been listening to this CD in my car and just wanted the decorations to come out. So after talking to my sweet husband, we put the decorations out. I was so giddy!

This time of year is one of my favorites. The lights and the decorations and the music and the outpouring of kindness that seems to happen. All this for the birth a little baby that would change the world!

There are many things that contribute to my excitement this year: my sweet husband who is so kind to me, Christmas/holiday plans with LOTS of family (yay!), just enjoying life.

Here is a sampling of our decorations. I LOVE Christmas trees.

And I’ve been going a little nuts with Snowflakes (I am a Flake, ya know.)
I found the pillow in the picture above and the glasses below at Target.

Gratitude and 27

2011-11-21T15:22:00.001-08:00

I’m grateful to all those who prayed for my brother-in-law’s family. His wife and youngest daughter returned to the States a few weeks ago. My brother-in-law and Taylee will be home tomorrow! I’m so grateful to the Lord and for this wonderful miracle.

I’ve been working on several projects lately. I’m finishing up a Blurb book project about the 27 things I did when I was 27. I wasn’t sure what to do with the cover. A while back I found this blog post on how to make printables and have been wanting to try it. I’m really pleased with the way it turned out and I’m excited to do more.

Prayers and Faith

2011-10-31T15:45:00.001-07:00

I’ve been thinking all day about my brother-in-law and his wife. They went to Taiwan just over a year ago to adopt a little Taiwanese baby. They were blessed with this adorable little girl they named Taylee. Taiwan has given them custody of her, they are just waiting on a US visa to bring her to the states.

They’ve run into some delays with the visa process that has lead to some frustration. We’re really hoping that they will be home for Christmas so that we all can be together.
While praying this afternoon, I felt like I should share their story here and ask you all to offer prayers for Redge and Marissa, little Taylee and her new sister Kailin (who was born in September to Marissa), that the visa will be approved, and that they will be able to come home before Christmas.

Ambitions

2011-10-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

In a conversation with my husband this weekend about ambitions, I realized there are many things that I would like to do, but don't do because there is always someone that does it better. But how can I expect to be good at anything if I don't try just because someone already does something really well.

This has always been a sort of subconscious reaction to things in my life. It partly come from a fear (there I said it, it's a fear) of having to work harder than before, of failing, of not being good at something, maybe even the best at something. I want to be perfect at things and when that can't be reached, I'm discouraged. But honestly, who reaches perfection in everything? Only the Savior.

In a recent address to the women of the church, President Uchtdorf reminded women of 5 things we shouldn't forget. (It's a beautiful talk...read it if you haven't already.) The first thing he tells us is to be patient with ourselves. This includes not comparing our weaknesses to other's strengths, being grateful for the successes you do have, and knowing that the process of perfection is long but is done one step at a time.

Sure there are always going to be better writers, better crafters, better runners, better whatevers; it doesn't have to be about being the best, simply about being and becoming. Sure there will be some stumbles and some discouragement, but that can be part of the process. It will take some changes to priorities and some better time management, but one step at a time, I can do it. So here is to trying new things and being a little more diligent about current ambitions. (I may even have a new list of things to do soon.)

Did you remember your inner tube?

2011-09-08T17:55:00.001-07:00

What do you do when all evening activities are unexpectedly cancelled due to heavy rain storms and you’re home alone?

1. Video Chat with your sister who is only 5 miles away and look at all the roads that are closed due to flooding.

2. Catch up on blogs and think of new craft projects…like this one and this one and this one and oh, maybe this one. (There isn’t enough time in the day!)

3. Watch several episodes of Psych and laugh.

4. Take advantage of the flowing waters:

Spring!

2011-05-16T15:02:00.001-07:00

These pictures are from my tiny little yard. We have about 2 square feet of earth in front of our house. This year we have a cardinal nest in our evergreen tree. I found it as I was hacking at it so that my new geraniums could be seen on our porch. I quickly stopped. They hatched in the last couple days.

iPhone Love

2011-05-05T15:53:00.001-07:00

After much thought and deliberation, I bought an iPhone! I must admit my friend offered a little inspiration. I have to say I was instantly in love with it. After getting the phone basics and some music basics loaded, I explored the apps store. After getting some basics (read free apps) like LDS Tools and The Weather Channel, I decided to buy Hipstamatic. I loved it so much that I bought one of their add on packs. Here is a sample of my favorite shots so far…

Rocks, Pebbles, Sand

2011-04-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

I recently heard a story about a professor that stood in front of his class with a jar. He filled the jar with small rocks until they reached the top. He asked if the jar was full. The class said yes. He then took out a container of pebbles and poured them into the jar. The tiny pebbles filled in spaces between the rocks. He asked the class if the jar was full. They hesitantly said maybe. The professor pulled out a container of sand and poured them into the jar. The sand filled in the rest of the spaces. The professor declared the jar full.

This can be taken as a lesson on priorities. But it came to me as a lesson on giving. Often I'm afraid of giving too much. (This seems like a silly thing to be afraid off as I write it.) But I worry about running out of energy, patience, time, or imagining some sense of hurt if the service is not well received.

I realized, while listening to the story and it's application, that I shouldn't be worried about these things, especially the last one as the Savior will cover all of them. As I give, relying on the Savior, these things will never run out and it doesn't matter how it is received. He will replenish these resources and allow me to give more. He will always bless us as we strive to serve the people around us.

This Easter Day, I am grateful for the Savior and the choice He made to lay down His life so that we can repent and return to live with Heavenly Father some day.

Discovering the Book of Mormon (Again)

2011-04-17T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last month, Elder Bednar came to speak to the Young Single Adults in the region. He did a Q&A session that was amazing. In response to one question about ways to come to know the Savior, he said to get a new copy of the Book of Mormon and to highlight all references to the Savior.

I have attempted this in the past using various colors for different things about the Savior (characteristics, attributes, names, quotes), but I always got bogged down in remembering what color to use or some other detail that was distracting from actually comprehending what I was reading. But I wanted to try again.

I pulled an unmarked copy off my shelf (you can get one here) and pulled out my nifty multi-color marking pencil and started reading. This also somewhat coincided with my desire to get out of bed 20 minutes earlier each morning to do my scripture study before work. At first it was slow as I wondered "should I be highlighting this?" As I pressed forward, the highlighting became second nature.

I am amazed at how often the Savior is referred to. I always knew it was a lot (3925 references in 531 pages), but to actually highlight it and visualize it has had a huge impact. I have also discovered that reading with a purpose changes the way you see and understand the book. Verses that have always been there are read as if for the first time. It changes the way I understand and digest what I'm reading. This exercise has also renewed my passion to read the Book of Mormon. I'm excited to get up in the morning, getting ready as quickly as possible and even reading past the normal time I leave for work, just so I can read as long as possible.

The Book of Mormon has changed my life many times as I learn more about the Savior, his teachings, and the plan that can lead us back to our Father in Heaven. I can see it changing me now as I feel more constant assurance of His love and peace. I look forward to the changes that will come in the future as I continue to read with purpose and heed the teachings of the prophets in the Book of Mormon and the living prophet today.

Selfish

2011-04-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Confession: I check Google Reader about 3 times a day, sometimes more, sometimes less, and not usually on Sundays. I subscribe to a blog about the city I love, newsfeeds about my church, and a blog written by a woman I've never met who makes me laugh. But mostly I subscribe to my friend's blogs. I hungrily wait for them to post so that I can look at pictures of their children or of their latest vacation or read what their reading or feel like I know something about them when seperated by time and distance. I get lost in their worlds and in their words. I have amazing friends. I'm grateful they write.

I've found myself wondering lately, does this make me selfish? My friends share and I take, but I rarely share back, except for an occasional comment. Is this because I feel like I have nothing to share or that I don't make it a priority or that I'm not sure what to share? So here is to sharing a little more about me, the things that make me feel blessed and the little things that make my life complete.

Twinkle Lights

2010-12-02T17:10:00.000-08:00

Last night, two of my roommates and I got out our Christmas decorations. We put up the tree (but did not decorate it - that'll wait for our 4th roommate to get back from vacation) and put out other things - my decorative tree collection, Ash's nutcrackers and Singing Santa, Gertrude's candles, grandma's German spinney thing.

When it was finished, I reflected on how much I love Christmas lights, especially white ones. The colored ones are great and fun, but the white lights remind me of stars and lead me to reflect on the night the Savior was born.

This morning I was listening to Elder Cook's talk called Let There Be Light! He talks about being a beacon to the world, following the light of Christ as we stand for what is good and right in the world. He sandwiches his talk by referencing a song that was popular during World War II about the lights being turned out in London so the German planes wouldn't have targets. At the end of his talk he says, "We look forward to that beautiful day when 'free hearts will sing when the lights go on all over the world.'" He's making reference to people standing up for morality, but thoughts from the night before came to my head. I thought of dark neighborhoods near where I live with Christmas Trees in front rooms, candles in the windows, twinkle lights on trees and bushes. I thought of the simple beauty this bring to these neighborhoods and the hope that comes from taking the time to notice it. How wonderful it is that we celebrate the birth of our Savior, the Light of the World, at the darkest time of year when these small lights have the greatest effect.

I'm grateful for this time to celebrate the birth of the Savior, to remember his life, and his ultimate sacrifice that we all might live with our Father in Heaven again.

Merry Christmas!

Gratitude List

2010-11-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

Things I've been grateful for lately...

journals, sweet friends, little thoughts, cool fall days, service, scriptures, progress, kindness, gentle reminders, patience, answered prayers, reading, working, bike rides

Weaknesses Are Not Tragic

2010-11-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

Anxiety has a loud voice and is sometimes painful. He talks to me frequently, drowning out all other thoughts and feelings, making it uncomfortable to live in my own body. I sometimes get to the point that I have anxiety about the anxiety (why won't it go away? why am I experiencing this right now? what is this about?).

Despite this, I am grateful for this weakness. I'm learning to embrace the low times as well as the high times. These are not things to hurry up and get through, but things to learn and grow from. Weaknesses are not tragic because we can change. The atonement of Jesus Christ makes these changes possible. The Savior can lend support and succor as we embrace these challenges because He has already experienced them.

I'm learning to live with anxiety, that anxiety doesn't have to have a reason, and learning what tools quiet the thoughts and feelings (taking my feet out of my shoes and rubbing them on the carpet, humming, running, gratitude).

We the People...

2010-11-03T05:17:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I wasn't excited to vote yesterday. It had nothing to do with the candidates or the issues on the ballot; I just didn't want to go. But I knew I had a responsibility to go.

I went right after work, guessing at the roads that I needed to turn on to get to the elementary school hidden in a neighborhood near my home. I parked my car, walked toward the door with a "VOTE HERE" sign, carefully past the people that hand out the example ballots that tell you how to vote if you are a Republican or a Democrat, and presented my ID to the volunteer at the table. We exchanged a few pleasantries and then I was shown to the voting booth.

I cast my votes for U.S. Representative and 4 ballot measures. Now finished, I looked for the person with the "I Voted" sticker. I am a little crazy about wanting that sticker sometimes. I didn't see anyone with the stickers, so I walked sort of slowly so the workers would notice me leaving. They did and I got my sticker.

I put it on as I was walking to my car, knowing few would see it since I was headed home. As I did, I felt the spirit wash over me. I was grateful that I had come to vote and exercise the right I have to. I was grateful to be an American, to remember the founding fathers and all those since who have fought for this country. I was grateful to the women who fought for the right to vote, that I was able to vote because of them. I was grateful to be part of the process and knew it didn't matter if the candidate or issues I voted for won, not because I was apathetic, but because in our system it is the majority vote that prevails, and we all win when that succeeds. I was grateful to realize that I could make a difference.

Gratitude: The Start

2010-11-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's November (what happened to 2010?). There are lots of things about November that I enjoy: leaves changing, chilly weather, days off from work, and Thanksgiving. We all know that Thanksgiving is a time we celebrate the Pilgrims arriving in America and a time to express gratitude. But instead of saving all my gratitude for November 25th, I'm going to practice expressing gratitude more frequently this month (not that I'm not grateful at other times, I just want to be better). President Monson called gratitude the "noblest of virtues...the parent of all others" in his October conference address.

So I'm going to start with a person I've known for almost 27 years, my sister Jenny. I'm grateful for incredible example of patience, love, kindness, and loyalty. She makes me laugh. She's feisty and stubborn. I love late-night chats in our beds and impromptu sister dates (even if it is just to run errands). She's a great travelling companion. We have seen amazing parts of the world together, even if neither of us remember it (we moved to Belgium when I was 5 and she was almost 3 and came back to the States 4 years later). I could go on, but I don't want to embarrass her too much more. I'm grateful to be able to call her my sister and my friend.

So...

2010-06-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

I need to change my list, yet again. I have taken on a new responsibility that takes up a significant amount of time. The things that are being taken off the list will just be put on hold for a while. Here's my new list...

1. Run a 1/2 marathon (Logan, UT, August 28)
2. Take a trip to Utah (not just for the marathon)
3. Is a secret! OK, it's really not a secret anymore...I'm learning to ride a unicycle. I even bought one of my very own. It's red and tends to attack me when I'm impatient, but I know I can learn.
4. Secret writing project

This, I Believe

2010-05-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

As a companion to the Bible, the Book of Mormon testifies of the divinity of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know it is true and that by following its teachings we can come to know Heavenly Father, His son, and the Plan of Salvation, which leads us back to them.

An update

2010-02-20T15:58:00.000-08:00

So I've made some changes to my list. The list felt a little off to me. I found a couple of things that needed replacing and found a couple that I'm really excited about.

Number 5 is a project to learn more about my great-grandmother. She died the same day my grandfather was born and her family wasn't fond of my great-grandfather, so we know very little about her. She has been important to me since I was in high school when I first found some photographs of her. The main way I'll be able to do this is through some letters she wrote to my great-grandfather during their courtship.

Number 7 is a secret. It's a different type of secret than last year's secret. It'll be fun!

1. Relearn how to play the piano
2. Run a 1/2 marathon
3. Finish the photo album from last year's trip to Greece
4. Take a trip to Utah
5. Get to know Martha Lake Charmichael Medlock
6. Repaint my dresser
7. Is a secret!
8. Take a trip to Ireland
9. Secret writing project
10. Read Les Miserable (abridged)

Me

2010-01-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

I wish I had as much clarity as I've had in previous times, but patience with one's self, with others, and with God brings a measure of peace and the ability to progress. I know that gratitude is a great healer and the remedy for many, many things. A few of the things I'm grateful for today...

the Lord's timing, the atonement, a thoughtful text message, kindness and love of friends and family, hard work, regular routines, new goals, lists of things to do, libraries, running, rain on the windows, cold air, sunshine, crying, white cake with chocolate icing, colorful scarves, laughing, pondering, quiet time, driving, the temple, reflection, gratitude, prayer, reading, hope, miracles, memories, the promise of many things

A New Year, A New List

2010-01-19T11:50:00.000-08:00

"I urge you to examine your life. Determine where you are and what you need to do to be the kind of person you want to be. Create inspiring, noble, and righteous goals that fire your imagination and create excitement in your heart. And then keep your eye on them. Work consistently towards achieving them." - Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles

This year's list of things to do has been finalized. It is not a list of 28 things; I focused on finding things that I felt were most important and meaningful to me at this time. I felt like this year that the quality and not the quantity of the goals that I set was most important.

So here is the list, in no particular order...

1. Relearn how to play the piano
2. Run a 1/2 marathon
3. Finish the photo album from last year's trip to Greece
4. Take a trip to Utah
5. Join the DAR
6. Repaint my dresser
7. Go whale watching
8. Take a trip to Ireland
9. Secret writing project
10. Read Les Miserable (abridged)

Of course, like last year, adjustments may be made. I hope to learn and grow just as much as last year. I think I'll call this 10 in 2010.

2010-01-06T06:57:00.001-08:00

“There is a guiding hand above all things. Often when things happen, it’s not by accident. One day, when we look back at the seeming coincidences of our lives, we will realize that perhaps they weren’t so coincidental after all.” -Thomas S. Monson

Finished!

2009-12-09T17:59:00.000-08:00

Thing Number 3 was to see the Newseum. I went early Saturday morning on my own. I had the place practically to myself. It is such an amazing building and space, really well thought out. I was a little overwhelmed by some of the exhibits - the orientation video ("What is News?"), the Pulitzer Prize photos, and the 9/11 section. There was so much information in every display. My favorite was the News Corps. News History Gallery: front pages from newspapers since 1450s in displays that pull out like drawers, artifacts, videos on numerous topics, and interactive displays.

Thing Number 6 was to train for a half marathon. I joined the gym at work in June and went faithfully for several weeks after meeting with the trainer. I had an injury in August that made it difficult to run. So I've been running sporadically since. So while I'm not completely ready to run a half marathon, my intention is still the same.

Thing Number 25 was to write a short story. This is done! I'm really excited about it; it was really fun to write. If you would like to read it let me know and I'll send it to you.

As a PS, Thing Number 27, in case you're keeping track, was accomplished in February.

Current Tally: Done!

I have learned a lot from accomplishing my list and have been greatly blessed (directly and indirectly) by this experience. I have learned a lot about who I am and what I like to do. I am planning a list for while I'm 28, but it won't have 28 things; that would be a lot. I will post the list soon.

New York, New York!

2009-11-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Thing number 11 was originally supposed to be to go see the Supreme Court in session. However, I got sick a couple of weeks ago and didn't feel it was appropriate to miss any more work. So I amended this thing to be visit the Statue of Liberty. This was something I had never done before. It was really cool. We didn't get to go inside, but just being close to Lady Liberty was worth the ferry ride. The narration on the ferry said that when immigrants coming to Ellis Island saw the statue, the whole ship would erupt in cheers.

Thing number 16 was to attend the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. This was really fun. I'm glad we did it. My mom, sister, and I got up early and found a place on 6th Avenue about 7:30 am. We had a prime spot: everyone in front of us was on the street and we were on the curb, so it was easy to see everything that went by. The marching bands were great, the clowns and other characters were entertaining, and the balloons were fabulous. It is a different experience watching them come down the street and then float overhead. This was hands down the best parade I've ever been to.

Kermit!

Snoopy makes the turn onto 6th Avenue from 42nd Street.

We finished the rest of our time off in New York by seeing the Rockette's Christmas Spectacular, eating at Bubba Gump's in Times Square, seeing a play with two of Jenny's favorite actors, going to the top of the Empire State Building, and eating Thanksgiving dinner.

Current Tally: 24 done, 2 in progress, 1 to do!

Reassurance

2009-11-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

"With any major decision there are cautions and considerations to make, but once there has been illumination, beware the temptation to retreat from a good thing. If it was right when you prayed about it and trusted it and lived for it, it is right now. Don’t give up when the pressure mounts. Certainly don’t give in to that being who is bent on the destruction of your happiness. Face your doubts. Master your fears. “Cast not away therefore your confidence.” Stay the course and see the beauty of life unfold for you." - Jeffery R. Holland

Thing #10 and surplus things

2009-11-01T08:01:00.001-08:00

Thing number 10 was to go whale watching. Here are the whales!

This whale hangs out at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The aquarium is full of beautiful living creatures, but this whale is obviously not real. And he doesn't count as whale watching.

I had been thinking about modifying this thing since whale watching season was over in the mid-atlantic states when a trip to California for work was approved. So I left it on, did some research on whale watching trips and found one that worked with my schedule. However when I went to buy the tickets before I left, the tour that I had planned on taking was no longer on the schedule. None of the other trips worked with my schedule, but I left it on the list just in case I could get the tour. I also added seeing the Redwoods to this thing, so that one way or another something would be accomplished this week.

I drove through Henry Cowell State Park on my way from Monterey to San Jose to come home. The road winded through the mountains and the huge redwoods went for miles. It was gorgeous. I met a rancher named Jim in the San Jose airport waiting for my delayed flight (picture a leathery, grampa-type wearing denim and a cowboy hat and boots). He told me that Redwoods don't burn in a forest fire beacuse of their thick bark, but actually need the heat in order to grow.

While in California, I explored Monterey (where the conference was) and Carmel-by-the-Sea. For more pictures go here.

Surplus #1: The trip allowed me to visit with a mission companion and dear friend Rachel, who was very pregnant. She and I hadn't seen each other in about 3 years. We played with her son AJ (too cute for words), helped prepare for her sister's wedding, made chocolate cover pretezels, and caught up on things. Such joy!

Surplus #2: Due to my delay in San Jose, I missed my connection in Salt Lake City. At first they wanted me to fly from SLC to LA to Atlanta to DC, arriving at 9 am. Spending the whole night on a plane didn't sound like much fun to me, so I scheduled a flight out for the next morning. Hurrah for the unexpected. I must admit I was a little frustrated in San Jose, but talking with the rancher named Jim and realizing that I could visit Temple Square helped change my attitude. Kathleen picked me up from the airport and we had dinner at Leatherby's (an old favorite) and then went to Temple Square. Oh how I've missed it! We walked around the temple and chatted with a couple of sisters - one from California and one from Mexico. We visited the new Chuch History Library (mostly just walked in and did a random search in their catalog). We sat in on the Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearsal for a few minutes - absolutely gorgeous - and walked up where the Christus is. Such memories came flooding back and I was very grateful for the delay that made it possible. I stayed with my cousin Megyn and her family overnight. Her kids are getting so big and are lots of fun. It was great to catch up with them and my aunt Linda.

Current Tally: 22 done, 2 started, 3 to do in 42 days!

I heart being a librarian

2009-10-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

I'm in sunny (and windy) California for a librarian conference. This has been quite an adventure as I've been mostly on my own, which requires me to go sight seeing on my own, something I rarely do. But let me tell you it's a great experience. I get to see exactly what I want, when I want, and for as long as I want. But, I do find myself talking out loud to myself a bit more often than usual and there are moments that I wish I could share, so I guess there are some trade offs.

In the keynote session this morning, Paul Holdengraber was interviewed. This man is incredible. I've heard him speak a few times. He has revitalized programming at the NY Public Library and his vision for the library is refreshing. He has created a program called Live from the NYPL which are unique conversations, debates and performaces with a variety of people from President Clinton to William Forsythe. He even talked this morning about an opera that was performed based on E.B. White's Manual of Style. One of the things that they often do during the programs is conversation portraits. Flash Rosenburg draws as the program happens. These are quite clever and you can watch a few here.

Paul also said that of all the things that he is, he is "not a librarian; but nobody's perfect." Love it!

Anna and a Boat

2009-10-04T06:33:00.000-07:00

Thing #15 was to take the water taxi to Georgetown. It also happened to be on Amy's list as well. So we planned to go during Priesthood session in hopes that some of leaves would be changing and it wouldn't be too cold. Well the leaves aren't quite changing and it was pretty chilly sitting on top of the boat, but it was well worth the trip. (On the way back we sat on the inside of the boat.)

The boat has a narration that points out interesting things along the way. When we went under the Memorial Bridge the narrator described it as a bridge between the North and South and that there are 26 stars (I think that was the number) to represent the number of states at the time of the Civil War. I also learned that the Kennedy Center is the federally recognized memorial to JFK. And that the Potomac River is one of the top 10 places for bass fishing (if you've seen the river, I'm not sure that you'd want to fish in it). It was quite an educational evening. In Georgetown, we had dinner at Chadwick's and wandered a little through the area right near the dock.

The monuments from the Boat (courtesy of Jenny's awesome camera)

Jenny, Amy, me, and Michelle on the top deck

Thing #7 was to read (or listen to) Anna Karenina. This was my third attempt at reading this classic. The first two times I never made it past page 100. Knowing this, I checked out the audiobook from the local library in the hopes that this would help me along. I did get farther than page 100 this time (to about page 150), but I've decided not to finish the book.

While the book is beautifully written and the characters well developed, it is a heavy book, and I don't mean physically (although depending on the edition you have it could be that, too). Tolstoy includes descriptions of cows and politics and women's dressing habits and other things that are interesting tidbits, but make for dense, laborious reading, I mean listening.

I was torn for several days deciding if I should just plow through and get it done or if I should replace it with some other thing. While pondering this, I realized two things: One, this project is about accomplishing things that I have always wanted to do. While reading AK, it became something I no longer wanted to do. And two, that the decision to stop reading it and understanding that I no longer feel the need to read it was accomplishing the goal, too. So I have counted this thing done; I have returned the audiobook to the library and removed my copy of the book from my shelf. So long, Anna!

Current Tally: 21 done, 2 started, 4 to do

Randomness

2009-09-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish I could understand myself better. That being said, this I do know: I have come to understand that every situation is different and not to expect the same thing twice. Perhaps I'm too nice, perhaps I'm too understanding, but this is who I am and I like being me. I am dedicated and loyal and passionate and willing to give people many, many chances. I am constantly learning how to take confidence in these things. Pain and disapointment are just as important to progession as happiness is.

I am reminded of the hymns "Be Still, My Soul" and "How Firm a Foundation" because they give me peace and strength as I move forward. What specifically comes to mind is "be still, my soul: thy God doth undertake/to guide the future as he has the past/thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake/all now mysterious shall be bright at last" and "In every condition...as thy days may demand, so thy succor shall be." This simply reminds me to look at the blessings in my life, that God has a hand in my life, and that I am promised joy. What more can a girl ask for?

A few of the things I'm grateful for:

random notes/texts from friends, answered prayers, work, crying, laughing, unexpected trips, geting lost, leaves changing color, accomplishing things on my list, alone time, finding things I'm passionate about, steadfast friends

Zero Solitude and a Mill

2009-09-09T17:42:00.000-07:00

Yay for 3 day weekends and for accomplishing things on my list! I'm so excited to be getting these done. It's teaching me to make time to do things that I always think about doing but never do.

On Saturday, thing #9 - Hike Old Rag - was accomplished! John and I headed out before the sun was up to get to the trail before the crowds. The 3 miles to the summit includes two miles of switchbacks and the last mile is a rock scramble to the summit. After lunch at the summit, we hiked the 4.5 miles down the other side. It was a fantastic day! ;)

Thing #21 was to visit George Washington's Grist Mill. This was a tour of how Washington made his living by growing wheat and corn and turning it into flour, feed, and whiskey.

outside the Grist Mill

Jenny is finally taller than Amy

The workings of the Mill

(Current Tally: 19 done, 5 started, 3 to do)

Soccer and Pottery

2009-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thing number 23 was to see a professional soccer game. This took a little bit of coordination - unlike baseball where you can pretty much see a home game any week of the season, it seems the soccer teams only play a few times a month, even fewer times at home, and mostly on Sundays. But as luck would have it the LA Galaxy were scheduled to play in DC on a lovely wet Saturday. With even more luck our seats were under the upper level, so we didn't get wet. It was a great time with noise makers, drums, jumping fans, and of course, David Beckham! (Coincidentaly, Beckham's number is 23.) Unfortunately, our camera battery ran out and we didn't get to take many photos of him, I mean the game. ;)

Josh with some noise makers.

Matt, Nicole, and me

Jenny with the noise makers

(they give them out as you enter the stadium)

David Beckham is second from the left.

Thing number 5 was to take a creative class. Before graduation, I signed up for a summer pottery class, afraid I would be bored without having any classes (which turned out to be a silly thing to be worried about). But I think, so far, I have learned the most from this thing.

Pottery and I had a rocky start. I didn't really like it, mostly because I had no idea what I was doing and I was the only beginner in the class. But as the the class progressed, I really started to enjoy it. Pottery requires complete focus, patience, and feel. I found that as I only thought about the clay, feeling and guiding the clay to create, and not being in a hurry to finish, I could create somewhat decent pieces. This is something I am working on applying into other aspects of my life. It makes a huge difference. In the end, I was sorry not to be able to continue classes this fall; perhaps in the future.

A few of my pieces are here. I have a couple more to pick up this week. The red bowl is my favorite (the pictures don't do the colors justice).

Thing #20 - NGS

2009-08-16T08:09:00.001-07:00

Thing number 20 on my list was to visit the National Geographic Society.

After breakfast at Eastern Market (yum), John and I went to see the exhibits at the NGS museum. The museum is in the bottom level of what I believe are the NGS offices. If you weren't looking for the museum, I'm not sure you'd know it was there. Walking to the first exhibit, mounted on the ceiling is a topographic display of a section of the Grand Canyon.

They had two exhibits. The first exhibit was of photographs and video of lions and leopards taken by a couple that has lived among the animals for 30 years. The other exhibit was on Kodachrome and the American tourist in Europe. The photos were arranged by country and it was especially fun to see pictures of Greece!

The museum will have a exhibit on the Terracotta Soldiers from China in the winter, so I'll have to go back.

(Current tally: 15 done, 5 started, 7 to do)

Hiking and Skydiving in the Smokies

2009-07-28T15:51:00.000-07:00

Ok so I didn't actually jump out of a plane (I'm still considering it though), but over the 4th of July weekend Jenny, Amy and I took a trip to Pigeon Forge, TN (home of Dollywood) for a midnight parade, indoor skydiving, and one of the most beautiful national parks. It's so much fun to go south, almost like visiting a new country.

Thing number 12 was to go indoor skydiving. This is where you get suited up like you are going to skydive - jumpsuit, helmet, goggles - but instead you get into a vertical wind tunnel and an instructor guides you as the wind picks you up into the air. It was tons of fun. We have a video that we're working on uploading, so this picture outside the building will have to do until then.

me and Jenny

Thing number 18 was to hike 3 miles on the Appalachian Trail. The day we made it to the trail was cloudy and a little rainy, but there was enough tree coverage that we didn't get wet. The trail was a little creepy at times - narrow and almost overgrown and not very many people. At times we were hiking in the clouds we were so high up.

me with the Appalachian Trail sign

(don't look at my lack of coordination - i didn't pack very well)

44%

2009-06-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

I have had lots of fun planning and accomplishing the things on my list. I have learned a lot and I love being able to check things off.

The mid-year (which was June 12th) count is 12 done, 7 planned/started, and 8 to go. Here is what the list looks like as of today:

1. GRADUATE from Library School

2. Read “To Kill a Mockingbird”

3. Visit the Newseum

4. Take a trip somewhere I’ve never been before (Greece/Turkey)

5. Take a creative class (pottery)

6. Train for a half marathon

7. Read (or listen to) Anna Karenina

8. Visit the Capitol Visitor’s Center

9. Hike Old Rag

10. Whale Watch

11. See the Supreme Court in session

12. Pansy Skydiving (Vertical Wind Tunnel)

13. Go to the National Arboretum

14. See a show on Broadway

15. Take the water taxi to Georgetown

16. Attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

17. Sample a new ethnic food

18. Hike 3 miles on the Appalachian Trail

19. See an Opera

20. Visit the National Geographic Society

21. Go to Washington’s Grist Mill

22. Tour the DAR

23. Attend a professional soccer game

24. Play laser tag

25. Write a short story

26. Ride a donkey up a mountain

27. Is a secret

For the 7 planned/started: number 5 starts next Thursday; in correlation with number 6, I joined the gym at work; numbers 12 and 18 will happen over 4th of July weekend (yay for Tennessee!); 16 happens at Thanksgiving; number 23 is planned for August 22 (anyone want to come?); and I have started on number 25 (but I very often get stuck).

I think the other 8 will wait until late summer and fall.

Number 19 and an Addendum to 26

2009-06-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

Thing number 19 was to see an Opera. I went with Jenny, Pam, Amy, and Nicole to the Kennedy Center to see Turandot last month. The third act starts with Nessun Dorma, which was the reason we chose to see this opera. I enjoyed it very much.

Thing number 26 was originally to take part in the polar bear plunge. Due to some scheduling issues with school I wasn't able to make it out to the event. So I decided to change it to "ride a donkey up a mountain." This was something we decided to do while planning our shore excursions on our cruise in Greece. I really wanted to do it but I was a little nervous since I have a small fear of falling or vertigo or something (I don't mind being up high, just being close to the edge). Honestly is was an amazing experience, definitely a highlight of the trip. The donkeys zig-zag up a wide stone path, often getting close to the edge. This is all done without a guide, the donkeys just know where to go. About a quarter of the way up, I was no longer bothered by the fear and even thought I might try skydiving next. Ha. I don't know if I actually will (why jump out of a perfectly good airplane), but riding that donkey has been quite liberating. Thanks donkey!

Kat, me, Amy, and Jenny at the top after our ride.

Thing #4!

2009-06-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

For this thing, I went to Greece with a few friends! We spent 8 glorious days traveling the country, visiting ruins, and sailing the Aegean Sea. We spent time in Athens, Delphi, Cape Sounion, and then the cruise took us to Mykonos, Kusadasi (Turkey), Patmos, Crete, and Santorini. Santorini was hands-down my favorite part (when we got back, I even looked up how much it costs to get to Santorini - $2200 in case you're wondering by airplane). The whole trip was fantastic! I enjoyed all the places we went - Ancient Ephesus is a must, Mykonos is quaint. I now have a travel bug and am trying to decide where to go next. For more pictures, go here.

Kathleen, me, Jenny, and Amy in front of the Parthenon

the beautiful Aegean sea

me in Patmos

Jenny in Santorini

Several Things

2009-06-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

So it's been a little while since I update, but I've been busy accomplishing things on my list.

Thing #17 - Sample a new ethnic food

Jenny, Amy and I went to Passport DC on May 2. Several of the embassies on Embassy Row in DC open their doors to anyone. Many of the embassies have food and music and display items from their countries. It's an amazing chance to see some beautiful places and things.

We went to several embassies including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Ghana, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan. We bought a plate of food at the Pakistani embassy, which was delicious. As for trying new food, we had a small plate of food at the Bangladeshi embassy. It was very good, similar in taste to Indian. Then at the Malaysian embassy we tried Air Batu Campur (ABC). They were selling it for a dollar. It means shaved ice. It contained shaved ice, red beans, corn, jelly, and cherry flavored syrup. I wish I could say I enjoyed it...

Thing #1 - Graduate from Library School!!!

I graduated from Catholic University's School of Library and Information Science on May 16. It was a great day (even with the 15 mins of rain during the ceremony) with friends and family. It hits me every once and a while that I'm finished.

Matt, Nicole, Ash, Jenny, Amy, Pam, Me, and Sara

Thing #2 - Read "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Somehow I missed this classic during my public education. I absolutely love this book. It is definitely in my top 5 favorites. I adore Atticus, and loved Scout and Jem and Dill. It was so easy to get lost in the story and the language.

There's a couple more...I'll write about them soon.

Thing Number 13...

2009-04-26T17:52:00.000-07:00

Number 13 was to visit the National Arboretum. The arboretum makes you forget that you're in the middle of DC (and that the Anacostia is a dirty, dirty river). It was a fabulous day; sunny and warm. We visited the azaleas, the dogwoods, and the pillars from the original capitol building that burnt in 1814. There was so much that we didn't see, the park is huge. I love spring in DC!

PS. Thing number 1 is less than 3 weeks away!!! I passed my comprehensive exams and am just 1 final exam away fom completing my course work.

Thing #24

2009-04-11T10:24:00.001-07:00

Last week I went with some friends to play laser tag. It was exactly what I expected it to be. There were so many people in the game, I'm not sure I actually shot anyone. But there we go...one more thing done. Sadly, we didn't take any pictures, but these kids pretty much sum it up:

The next 6 weeks or so should be much more exciting in accomplishing things on the list. I think there are at least 4 things that will get done in that time and some of them are BIG!

A mid semester update

2009-03-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

So I've been slacking on my 27 things, but with good reason. I have comprehensive exams in less than two weeks, plus keeping up with the two classes I'm enrolled in. It has been a roller coaster of a semester. I'm pretty sure I'll make it through in one piece.

Although I have super motivation now - I just booked my trip to Greece! (#4 on the list.) I'll be going in May with my sister and a friend. The trip will allow us to spend a day on the Turkish coast as well!

I did go to a Vietnamese restaurant in February with a couple of friends (# 17 on the list). We decided this only half counted since I had previously had pho. I also need to revise the list since I missed the polar plunge. Any suggestions?

Thing Number 14

2009-01-24T19:31:00.001-08:00

Number 14 on my list of 27 things was to see a show on Broadway. We decided to see Wicked. If you ever get the chance to see it, go. It was fabulous, wonderful, spectacular.

Amy, Pam, Jenny and I headed up for a weekend in NYC. It was freezing, but we had a great weekend seeing the Empire State Building, visiting the Met, and eating A LOT in Chinatown, Lindy's (the cafe in Guys and Dolls was modeled after it), and Serendipity.

outside the theater!

More pictures from the weekend can be seen here (along with a few others).

A Few of My 27 Things

2009-01-12T17:05:00.000-08:00

It's off to a great start. I have to accomplish at least 2 a month if everything is to get done this year.

In December, my Dad got tickets to tour the U.S. Capitol. They just opened a new Visitor's Center. This is #8 on my list. I didn't get very many picture inside. It's a huge open space with lots of natural light and lots of great exhibits. It's worth the trip.

me and my parents

It also happened to be the day my family was celebrating my birthday, so after we went to a fabulous little Mexican place behind the Library of Congress. I took the family on a tour of the tunnels under the Capitol and the Library of Congress.

dad and me in the tunnels

In January, I started with #22 - Tour the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution). They have a small museum collection and a bunch of rooms done up in different time periods. AND they have a library. It's in an old theater, so it's pretty unique.

outside the DAR building

the DAR library

Amy and Kathleen in the library

one of the rooms in the DAR building

27 Things for My 27th Year

2008-12-28T12:12:00.000-08:00

So I've come up with a list of things to do this year that I've never done before. (I turned 27 on December 12th.) I will post updates as they are accomplished and pictures sometimes. If you'd like to join me in any of these things let me know. I have no set schedule for any of them (except numbers 1 and 16, and I guess number 16).

1. GRADUATE from Library School
2. Read “To Kill a Mockingbird”
3. Visit the Newseum
4. Take a trip somewhere I’ve never been before
5. Take a creative class (pottery, cooking, etc.)
6. Train for a half marathon
7. Read (or listen to) Anna Karenina
8. Visit the Capitol Visitor’s Center (Done)
9. Hike Old Rag
10. Whale Watch
11. See the Supreme Court in session
12. Pansy Skydiving (Vertical Wind Tunnel)
13. Go to the National Arboretum
14. See a show on Broadway
15. Take the water taxi to Georgetown
16. Attend the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
17. Sample a new ethnic food
18. Hike 3 miles on the Appalachian Trail
19. See an Opera
20. Visit the National Geographic Society
21. Go to Washington’s Grist Mill
22. Tour the DAR
23. Attend a professional soccer game
24. Play laser tag or paintball
25. Write a short story
26. Polar Bear Plunge
27. Is a secret

A little bit of catch up

2008-06-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

My sister Jenny and I have been taking lots of pictures of the fun things we've been doing and we wanted to share them with you. The picture links will take you to Facebook photo albums.

In March, we went up to Maryland for the Maple Syrup Festival. We learned how trees are tapped and syrup is made. They served pancake breakfasts - probably the best we've ever had. It was in a state park called Cunningham Falls. There is indeed a waterfall at the park. It a small hike there. (The pictures also include Jenny's birthday bowling party.)

In March, I went to Canada for my dear friend Tanya's wedding. She got married in Lethbridge, a small town about an hour north of the U.S. border.

Last month, I went with a co-worker and some friends to the Virginia Gold Cup. It's a steeple chase out in a beautiful part of Virginia. It was a perfect day. It was lots of fun to dress up and be outside and people watch. The horses were pretty interesting too. You can see pictures here.

A few weeks ago, we headed to the outter banks of North Carolina for Memorial Day weekend. We stayed in a great house with 25 friends. It was a wonderful weekend of sun, sand, friends, and a visit to Kitty Hawk. Pictures can be seen here and here.

We've also gone to a few Nationals games, visited the new National Harbor, watched kites at the Kite Festival, done musems and concerts. There are always things to do in D.C. =)

A fitting tribute to a great man

2007-08-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

President James Faust will indeed be missed! He was a wonderful leader and a great example.

Spoiler Alert!!!

2007-07-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

Everything in the news about Harry Potter has had spoiler alert attached to them. Here is one of my favorites from CNN:

Editor's Note: This story contains spoilers. If you're not done with "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," you'd better stop reading now.

NEW YORK (AP) -- Less than a week after the release of the final Harry Potter book, author J.K. Rowling is giving hints about its conclusion.

Before publication, Rowling pleaded for secrecy about the ending of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." But in an interview broadcast Thursday on NBC's "Today" show and in one published Thursday in USA Today, she discussed Harry's fate.

THOSE WHO DO NOT WANT TO KNOW HOW IT ALL TURNS OUT FOR THE BOY WIZARD SHOULD STOP READING HERE.

Have you stopped yet?

This is your last warning.

For the full story, click here. But beware there are spoilers.

And also this from the Onion:

Final Harry Potter Book Blasted For Containing Spoilers

NEW YORK—Harry Potter fans throughout the world were shocked, disappointed, and outraged to learn last week that J.K. Rowling's 750-page...

Has anyone got 50 cents?

2007-07-18T07:20:00.001-07:00

My sister, Jenny, our two friends, Amy and Kathleen, and I took a road trip this weekend to upstate New York to see the Hill Cumorah Pagent. We decided also to check out Niagra Falls. We rode the Maid of the Mist and got a little wet, but the vantage point from there is amazing!

After the boat ride, we wanted lunch and decided to walk over to the Canadian side becasue it looked cooler (and it was!). We had lunch at the only place that seemed Canadian, Boston Pizza. On our way back, we had to walk through customs. There were little pedestrian gates where you had to pay 50 cents to get through. 50 cents to walk back to America!

Amy joked that if they installed these gates on our southern border, there would be fewer immigration problems!

So we have to go through customs on the American side - show our driver licences and answer a few questions. The agent asked what the purpose of my visit to Canada. I said to have lunch. "Lunch?" he asked. Then he asked if I had come all the way from Virginia to have lunch in Canada.

How Very American!

2007-07-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

I found this in the Washington Post this morning...

In France, Jogging Is a Running Joke
President's Exercise Regime Has Critics in a Lather

By Joel Garreau
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 7, 2007

The sight of the new French president, Nicolas Sarkozy, jogging -- often wearing his favorite NYPD T-shirt -- has fired up a tempest in a Reebok in France and Britain this summer. Sarkozy's running is an un-French, right-wing conspiracy, suggests Paris' left-wing newspaper Libération. In response, British commentators gleefully conclude: The French have lost their minds, again.

On the primary state television channel, France 2, Alain Finkielkraut, a leading French intellectual, recently demanded that Sarkozy give up his "undignified" exercise. Not only did he imply that exposing the boss's naked knees is something that never would have occurred in the time of Mitterrand, much less Louis XIV, Finkielkraut claimed strolling is the proper activity of the thinking person, from Socrates to the poet Arthur Rimbaud.

"Western civilization, in its best sense, was born with the promenade," said Finkielkraut. "Walking is a sensitive, spiritual act. Jogging is management of the body. The jogger says I am in control. It has nothing to do with meditation."

Sarkozy has fueled a French suspicion that running is for self-centered individualists like Americans, reports Charles Bremner, Paris correspondent for the Times of London.

"Patrick Mignon, a sports sociologist, noted that French intellectuals had always held sport in contempt, while totalitarian regimes cultivated physical fitness," Bremner writes.

"Jogging is of course about performance and individualism, values that are traditionally ascribed to the right," Odile Baudrier, editor of V02 magazine, a sports publication, told Libération.

The British press is having a wonderful time with all this.

"The Sarkozy jog, say his critics, is a sad imitation of the habits of American presidents, and a capitulation to 'le défi Américain' (a phrase that was the title of a book published here as 'The American Challenge') as bad as the influx of Hollywood movies," writes Boris Johnson, a British member of Parliament and confirmed jogger, in the Telegraph.

"I am not deterred . . . by the accusation that jogging is right-wing," he says. "Of course it is right-wing, in the sense that the facts of life are generally right-wing. The very act of forcing yourself to go for a run, every morning, is a highly conservative business. There is the mental effort needed to overcome your laziness.

"Charles de Gaulle . . . moved with the stately undulation of a giraffe, and never broke into so much as a trot."

Jogging is not a new affectation for Sarkozy. When he was finance minister, visiting Washington for meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, he found it congenial to jog around the Mall, a French Embassy spokeswoman says. Former French ambassador to the United States (and recently named an adviser to Sarkozy) Jean-David Levitte does not indulge, however. Levitte "has a lot of things to do. He is on the run intellectually," she says.

Meanwhile, the readers of British press Web sites are piling on. "No decent conservative would dream of jogging. It's a vulgar, untraditional form of self-advertisement that might frighten the horses. What's wrong with croquet?" posted Ian Morrison on the Telegraph Web site. "Had it been a spot of extracurricular horizontal jogging instead, je pense que ze political classe wouldn't have batted an eye," posted Nixon McVicar.

In the heyday of vaudeville, there was a routine that had one woman complaining about the food at a Catskills resort. "It's terrible," she says. "Yes," agrees her friend, "and the portions are so small."

Just so, not only is Sarkozy's running being criticized, so is his style.

Renaud Longuèvre, a noted coach, tells L'Equipe magazine that Sarkozy's arms hang down, he bends too far forward, his stride is bad and his feet strike the ground incorrectly, Bremner reports. The coach advised the president to get his feet checked, strengthen his abdominal and posterior muscles and to "check your diet because it seems you are carrying a slight excess in weight."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/07/06/AR2007070602104.html?nav=rss_print/style

Death by Nerf Gun

2007-07-02T11:18:00.000-07:00

Last night I had a crazy dream....Nothing was actually happening to me, so I think I was more of an observer/narrator.

I was in a house with a young family: a mom, dad, and two kids. The British and the American soldiers were fighting on the lawn. From the looks of their costumes, you could tell they were actors, but we were still really scared. The soldiers on both sides were not only fighting with weapons but also with funoodles (like what kids play with at the pool). A couple British soldiers came up to the house and were peeking in the windows - which were so high that they could just barely see in. They were looking for the husband who was hiding under the laundry, standing up with bed sheet hanging off of him. As the soldiers were looking in, the husband thought it would be a good time to find a new hiding place. As he emerged, I saw that it was my coworker, Brian. Instantly the soldiers saw him and came into the house and threw him on the ground. They took a Nerf gun that could shoot tennis balls and sawed off the barrel. They shot Brian multiple times in the back. We were all in hysterics. In the next scene, I was helping the wife clean up. Brian was gone - dead I think. As we were cleaning, Purple Heart showed up and wanted a clothing donation that had been arranged previously by Brain. She said she could wait and understood the delay. I gathered some of Brian's tshirts and gave them to Purple Heart.

Then I woke up...not sure to what, but I had forgotten to set my alarm, and had overslept. Luckily, the 4th of July is this week and not many people went in to work today, so I was right on time.

A Bedazzled Pirate

2007-06-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

My sister's office is having a competition between all the different locations to see who can design the best office to show to perspective clients. She was telling this to a guy she met at church. He said she should do a themed office, like pirates, or something. He said they should go to the dollar store to get supplies. It was at this point she realized he was serious. So they made a date to go to the dollar store. She didn't have the heart to tell him. So afterwards she comes home with a bag of pirate booty - wall hangings, streamers, eye patch. Luckily it was the dollar store and not some place fancy.

But in telling this story to a friend of ours, she suggested to make the pirate theme a little more work-appropriate to get a bedazzler and bedazzle the eye patch.

Library Nerd

2007-06-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

I am the first on to admit that I am a nerd. I love the library. In the last couple of weeks, I've been to the Library of Congress twice (the LOC as I fondly call it) and to Folger Shakespeare Library.

The Shakespeare Library is a rare treat. Only really smart people that are studying Shakespeare and that time period can use the library and there are a bunch of hoops to jump through before one is even allowed in. They have a few exhibits open to the general public and a theater (that looks like the Globe) where Shakespearean related events are performed.
My classmate and I went to interview one of the people that is employed at the library for a class project. He was super smart and talked our ears off for about an hour (which makes the project that much easier), but afterwards he gave us a tour. We were so excited.

He took us through the offices and then into the main reading room which was modeled after a mansion in England. It was a long hall with dark wood and book cases floor to ceiling. There was a balcony level and stain glass representing scenes from As You Like It and the crests of Shakespeare and his contemporaries. (Here's a picture from the Folger website http://www.folger.edu/imgdtl.cfm?imageid=775&cid=1326) He also took us to the card catalog room and the meeting room (which looked like a dinning room). In this room was the ticket that Mr. Folger used to see Ralph Waldo Emerson give a speech on Shakespeare that initiated Folger's desire to collect all things Shakespeare. Folger apparently kept everything - tickets, receipts, catalogs, etc. - which makes it really easy for researchers today.

Library school rocks!!!

http://www.folger.edu/index.cfm

A fuzzy package

2007-05-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

I got home from work yesterday to find a package from Amazon on the doormat. I brought it in. It was sealed with saran wrap, which I thought was odd, but I opened it anyway. When I saw what was inside I screamed and dropped it on the floor. At least a dozen fuzzy caterpillars were crawling around inside. My mom came out from the kitchen and told me they were Garrett's. I wondered what they were doing here and then Garrett walked out (he's 5). Now Garrett thinks I am afraid of caterpillars.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_tent_caterpillar

Where you lead, I will follow

2007-04-25T00:14:00.000-07:00

I am in the land of the barren north, also known as Canada (Edmonton, to be specific), visiting two of my dearest friends from my mission. On a lazy afternoon, my friends and I were watching old episodes of Gilmore Girls. They have been watching a lot of GG over the past few months and my friend's son (who is 10 months old) enjoys the theme song. He was asleep on her stomach as we started the episode. As soon as the song came on, he sat straight up looked around and when it finished went right back to sleep. Oh, the entertainment babies bring!

Canada is lovely. It's been a good week of friends, relaxing, and reminiscing. I hope to return sometime. But next time, I'll make sure to come in the summer!

word of the day

2007-04-09T12:35:00.000-07:00

Moochamachama. 'mü-chä-mä-chä-mä. noun. definition: (1) a miscommunication of ideas. (2) the inability to understand what someone else is saying due to mumbling, an inability to articulate, or the need to have one's ear canals cleaned out. (new English)

Beginnings

2007-03-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

So I must explain the title of my blog. My mom told me about someone she wants me to get to know. She found out he has a blog and told me this as I was getting ready one morning.
"Would you consider..." she trailed off.
"Would I consider what, mom?"
"Would you consider blogging with him?" she asked.
My sister, who had walked in, and I laughed to the point we almost fell on the floor.

Thus the beginning.