Okay, so maybe me calling Halloween 'International Gorge Yourself on Candy Night' was a stretch since not as many countries take part in Halloween as I thought. I kind of like England's way of doing it...giving the kids money (ka-ching!) Happy Halloween, everybody! You guys rock!!
Today is also one of our family's favorite person's 30th birthday!! Happy birthday, Heather! We love you to the moon and back! Since she's currently globetrotting, more particularly finding adventure deep in the Amazon...(I may be embellishing due to the fact that she's living within civilization and not in the jungle), We are sending a video shout-out.
Button Nose dances 'The Thriller' for you. You may have to tip your head a bit...
We love you.
PS There is one more very special video coming in a couple of hours...
And FINALLY a completely embarrassing howling of Happy Birthday....
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
No Charge for AWESOMENESS...
I love having those 'Gosh, my husband is so cool!" moments.
This is a picture of He-Man examining a plastisized (sp?) heart from the Body Worlds exhibit in SLC. When I saw it, I just thought it looked like a nifty heart.
He-Man studied briefly and was able to determine that the person who actually used it (may they rest in peace..and pieces since their heart is there and they are some where else) probably died of a heart condition. He was able to figure this out based on the size of the ventricles and position of the arteries.
Wow! Who'da thunk 4 years of college plus 4 of post-grad medical studies= supreme cardio-coolness?!
This is a picture of He-Man examining a plastisized (sp?) heart from the Body Worlds exhibit in SLC. When I saw it, I just thought it looked like a nifty heart.
He-Man studied briefly and was able to determine that the person who actually used it (may they rest in peace..and pieces since their heart is there and they are some where else) probably died of a heart condition. He was able to figure this out based on the size of the ventricles and position of the arteries.
Wow! Who'da thunk 4 years of college plus 4 of post-grad medical studies= supreme cardio-coolness?!
Halloween Candy...
There are many, many aspects of Halloween that are so fun! The holiday is even more enjoyable now that I am a Mummy....(hahahaha! I'm so punny this morning!) I love the fun of dressing up...not in gory costumes, but fun, happy and cute costumes. It's also a bonus when sparkles, sequins, or rhinestones are involved.
What I don't like is that I can almost see the cavities developing on my kidlets' teeth and that awful, sluggishness I feel after I obviously munch on too much candy. I read a chart today that I thought was interesting and thought I would share:
http://health.msn.com/nutrition/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100218844>1=31036
(I'm still trying to figure out how to add links)
Halloween dinner is something I spend a lot of time pondering about because I want to give my family at least a little nutrition before the international tradition of 'Gorge Yourself With Candy Night' begins. So this is what I have decided to feed my family:
Grilled Garlic Chicken with Sesame, Stir-fry Veggies and Quinoa (since it's really high in protein). NO DESSERT! Honey, since you might read this blog before we chat again, how does that sound?
What I don't like is that I can almost see the cavities developing on my kidlets' teeth and that awful, sluggishness I feel after I obviously munch on too much candy. I read a chart today that I thought was interesting and thought I would share:
http://health.msn.com/nutrition/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100218844>1=31036
(I'm still trying to figure out how to add links)
Halloween dinner is something I spend a lot of time pondering about because I want to give my family at least a little nutrition before the international tradition of 'Gorge Yourself With Candy Night' begins. So this is what I have decided to feed my family:
Grilled Garlic Chicken with Sesame, Stir-fry Veggies and Quinoa (since it's really high in protein). NO DESSERT! Honey, since you might read this blog before we chat again, how does that sound?
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Television Confessional...
I have a confession:
For the past 2 months, He-Man and I have been conducting an experiment. We have taken the television out of our home. Basically, this means that the kids get to watch DVDs and videos and if there is anything we want to watch, we schedule it and watch it on the computer. This has benefited us in so many ways...and hopefully this means it will encourage me to hunker down and begin writing on a more consistent basis.
That being told, there is a show that I watch and LOVE!!!! I have decided that the show 'Samantha Who' is my very favorite show. I love it. It's so funny! I haven't seen every episode but the ones I am able to watch crack me up almost constantly. So, hopefully, it will stay fun and not digress into becoming a gross, filthy show that I won't feel guilty about watching. I will keep you posted. In the mean time, if you want 22 minutes of girlie fun, check it out!
For the past 2 months, He-Man and I have been conducting an experiment. We have taken the television out of our home. Basically, this means that the kids get to watch DVDs and videos and if there is anything we want to watch, we schedule it and watch it on the computer. This has benefited us in so many ways...and hopefully this means it will encourage me to hunker down and begin writing on a more consistent basis.
That being told, there is a show that I watch and LOVE!!!! I have decided that the show 'Samantha Who' is my very favorite show. I love it. It's so funny! I haven't seen every episode but the ones I am able to watch crack me up almost constantly. So, hopefully, it will stay fun and not digress into becoming a gross, filthy show that I won't feel guilty about watching. I will keep you posted. In the mean time, if you want 22 minutes of girlie fun, check it out!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
That's IT! We are NOT moving to Australia!
It was a picture I am certain came from the deepest nightmare of my own, personal psyche. Like a disgusting, cataclysmic event, I could not peel my eyes away for one horrific, seemingly eternal moment. When finally I could, I was forced to muster enough strength to override the dry heaves and vomit that would have followed.
The picture was taken in a suburb of an Australian city. It showed a GINORMOUS spider chowing down on a bird. You may think this was a delicate, little bird such as a Golden Finch. Think again. This bird had to be the size similar to an eagle.
Poor, hapless birds die all the time. I've seen my fair share of electrocuted phone-wire loving avian and even hit Hedwig's cousin with my car (it was like a feather pillow exploded everywhere) BUT this bird died an ignominious death in the jaws of a spider he could've beaten up on a better day. (Guess it just wasn't the best day of his life...but sad for him, his last) I wonder what his last thoughts were? Let'sexplore this...
We will call him 'Lucky'.
Lucky: "Ho-de-hum, I love to fly in the burbs and poop on people's windshields...Ug, what is this sticky mess I am in? Help! I can't get out!"
Disgusto the Spider: "Ohhh! Lunch! Here I come, Mister Unfortunate!"
Lucky: "Why are there a thousand eyes looking straight at me...and coming closer...with fangs dripping with toxic substances?! AUGH!...AUGH....augh...sploosh."
Disgusto: Mmmm. Yum, yum...slobber, slobber, Crunch, crunch...burp."
I think Disgusto's middle name ought to be 'Gluttony'.
If you dare to see a picture, here is the link. I didn't post it, just in case you didn't want to see it...
http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/10/23/11601_local-news.html
The picture was taken in a suburb of an Australian city. It showed a GINORMOUS spider chowing down on a bird. You may think this was a delicate, little bird such as a Golden Finch. Think again. This bird had to be the size similar to an eagle.
Poor, hapless birds die all the time. I've seen my fair share of electrocuted phone-wire loving avian and even hit Hedwig's cousin with my car (it was like a feather pillow exploded everywhere) BUT this bird died an ignominious death in the jaws of a spider he could've beaten up on a better day. (Guess it just wasn't the best day of his life...but sad for him, his last) I wonder what his last thoughts were? Let'sexplore this...
We will call him 'Lucky'.
Lucky: "Ho-de-hum, I love to fly in the burbs and poop on people's windshields...Ug, what is this sticky mess I am in? Help! I can't get out!"
Disgusto the Spider: "Ohhh! Lunch! Here I come, Mister Unfortunate!"
Lucky: "Why are there a thousand eyes looking straight at me...and coming closer...with fangs dripping with toxic substances?! AUGH!...AUGH....augh...sploosh."
Disgusto: Mmmm. Yum, yum...slobber, slobber, Crunch, crunch...burp."
I think Disgusto's middle name ought to be 'Gluttony'.
If you dare to see a picture, here is the link. I didn't post it, just in case you didn't want to see it...
http://www.cairns.com.au/article/2008/10/23/11601_local-news.html
Friday, October 24, 2008
He-Man is a kid at heart...
I suspect that if you put almost any man in front of muddy, sandy water and dinosaur figurines, they revert back to being children. This cracks me up every time I see it...
The picture isn't great but you'll get the general idea.
The picture isn't great but you'll get the general idea.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
I won! Now I'm paying it forward in bath beads....
My friend Deanna had a fun idea on her blog. She did a drawing of everyone's name who commented on it....and I won!! I'm so excited to take my husband out to dinner!
So, in an effort to continue the fun, I am copying her stroke of genius by having a drawing for some of the fabulous bath beads you see here:
I purchased a large quantity for my Scentsy Princess Party coming up in a couple of weeks. Whether in-state or out, it doesn't matter. All you have to do is leave a comment in the next two weeks. I will be drawing the name at the party on November 6th, (two weeks from today). I have most of the mailing addresses of the people who comment but if I don't have yours, we can email back and forth for the info.
As for my Princess Party, I have created some super fun things I will be selling at various boutiques this fall and thought I would give all my friends a sneak peek. On Thursday, November 6th from 6-9 pm, I am selling my Scentsy stock as well as all the other things I have been working on. I will post pictures soon!
Thanks again, Deanna!
You are all the best blogging buddies around!
So, in an effort to continue the fun, I am copying her stroke of genius by having a drawing for some of the fabulous bath beads you see here:
I purchased a large quantity for my Scentsy Princess Party coming up in a couple of weeks. Whether in-state or out, it doesn't matter. All you have to do is leave a comment in the next two weeks. I will be drawing the name at the party on November 6th, (two weeks from today). I have most of the mailing addresses of the people who comment but if I don't have yours, we can email back and forth for the info.
As for my Princess Party, I have created some super fun things I will be selling at various boutiques this fall and thought I would give all my friends a sneak peek. On Thursday, November 6th from 6-9 pm, I am selling my Scentsy stock as well as all the other things I have been working on. I will post pictures soon!
Thanks again, Deanna!
You are all the best blogging buddies around!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Thrilling...
In honor of the season, I added MJ's "Thriller" to my playlist. Go on, cut a rug!
Don't worry if you don't have a sparkly white glove in your possession. In fact, that is quite admirable of you. What does it say about me that I do?!
Since He-Man is working late again this evening, I plan to crank it up and don an undead costume, complete with stage blood, peeling skin and perhaps, my wedding gown. All in preparation for Halloween...I gotta practice ya' know! I just hope my kids don't wake up.
Here's to a simpler time: When Vincent Price's voice would send shivers up your spine, we all secretly wanted to learn to break dance and Michael Jackson didn't melt in the sun.
Don't worry if you don't have a sparkly white glove in your possession. In fact, that is quite admirable of you. What does it say about me that I do?!
Since He-Man is working late again this evening, I plan to crank it up and don an undead costume, complete with stage blood, peeling skin and perhaps, my wedding gown. All in preparation for Halloween...I gotta practice ya' know! I just hope my kids don't wake up.
Here's to a simpler time: When Vincent Price's voice would send shivers up your spine, we all secretly wanted to learn to break dance and Michael Jackson didn't melt in the sun.
A Pretty Cake...
On a Delicious Note...
A couple of years ago, I had my first experience working with fondant cake decorating. It was fun but didn't I try it again for a long time.
Then, I saw the most beautiful cakes on my friend, Mary Ann's blog. Seriously, if they taste half as good as they look, they are absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS! So I have been attempting to create again.
Here is a picture of my best friend/sister-law's birthday cake. It was a fudge cake with an Andes Mint ganache, covered with fondant polka dots. It's been an amateur attempt, but fun to do! Thanks for the inspiration, Mary Ann!
A couple of years ago, I had my first experience working with fondant cake decorating. It was fun but didn't I try it again for a long time.
Then, I saw the most beautiful cakes on my friend, Mary Ann's blog. Seriously, if they taste half as good as they look, they are absolutely SCRUMPTIOUS! So I have been attempting to create again.
Here is a picture of my best friend/sister-law's birthday cake. It was a fudge cake with an Andes Mint ganache, covered with fondant polka dots. It's been an amateur attempt, but fun to do! Thanks for the inspiration, Mary Ann!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
A Musical Discussion...
I love music. I love it! Not a day goes by when I don't listen to some type. It makes me happy and puts me in a good mood. Plus it allows me an excuse to randomly spazz out during a moment when I just need to dance.
I remember the first song that wasn't in the Primary Songbook that I started listening to. It was 'For the Longest Time' by Billy Joel. There were nights when I would sit in the bathtub and thinking that no one could hear me, belt out what I thought were the words, "Oh, ohhh, ohhhhhhh, ohhhhh Father Longess Time. OOh, ohhh, ohhhhhhh, ohhhhh Father Longess Time. When your in the bathtub in the night, you'll be happy all your life..." I remember these words because even when I was older, I had to retrain myself to stop singing the wrong ones.
Then, when Madonna personally offended my mother with the song, "Like a Virgin", I thought I would never get to listen to the radio again. I had no idea what the lady with the crazy hair and really cool skirts was singing about. I just knew that if I was caught listening or singing along, I would probably get my mouth washed out with soap.
Time went by. My older brother eventually got a radio with a tape cassette player and we thought he was the coolest person on the planet. With the advent of our discovery of "The Weekly Top 40" our Saturday play list grew from solely Kenny rogers and John Williams soundtrack records to Weird Al, Michael Jackson, Def Leppard and about 2 seconds of any given Madonna song (however long it took my mom to leap over the couch to turn off the radio).
Eventually, we all got our own music players and my brothers and I discovered that our tastes in music were completely different. My older, more studious brother listened to a lot of classical music(...with a random bout when he listened to 'Faith No More').
My younger brother developed a taste for Oldies. (For a long time I thought my parents must have brainwashed him by tying him up, gagging him with a dirty sock and making him listen to 48 hours of "Daydream Believer" in 38 different languages).
I, on the other hand, decided I liked anything pop and after finally disposing of my 'Barbie and the Rockers' tape (I won't even admit how old I was) started listening to Tiffany, "New Kids on The Block' and Milli Vanilli (I also figured out how to peg my jeans...two years after it was cool). (Meanwhile, my mom's blacklist grew exponentially including (but not limited to): 'Pump-Up the Volume', 'Material Girl', 'I Want to Sex You Up', 'Wild, Wild West', and even more Madonna.)
Somehow, we all managed to grow up and like each other in spite of our very differing tastes. I'm happy to say that my older brother married the most fabulous and beautiful (shout out to Rachelle) opera singer and still listens to amazing music created by some of the most gifted composers known to humanity. His preferences have spanned out though. He now possesses a more diverse collection including 'The Wheels on the Bus' and 'Five Little Ducks'.
My younger brother has stayed with his roots and still loves his Moldy Oldies. He's a pro with pop-culture and could probably name any oldies song within two or three notes.
Eventually, I grew to appreciate their tastes. The first opera I went to was "The Magic Flute" by Mozart. I was stunned and delighted. Eventually I also fell in love with 'The Mamas and the Papas" and go to a happy place whenever I hear Bob Dylan.
But, with that said, I also absolutely love a collection of songs from just about every genre.
So, just for fun, I thought I would begin a discussion on what songs everyone thinks are the greatest and the worst:
Here's my incomplete list:
GREATEST:
Hampton the Hampster (don't laugh. I love it! It makes me so happy I cry)
Suddenly (truly one of the most romantic songs EVER!)
The Call
Best Days (not the naked one...the Shrek version. Imagine my surprise when I downloaded it after watching the movie to let my kids listen to it and realizing some of the words were a little different...the kids totally freaked out!)
Over My Head
Forever Young (Bob Dylan rocks!)
Hey Jude
Push
Have a Little Faith in Me
We Didn't Start the Fire (I've got to admit, I admire anyone who can blurt out as many historical facts and figures as possible in an three and a half minute time frame)
WORST:
The Pina Colada Song (I know people LOVE this song but for some reason it sends me into eyebrow spasms and dry heaves.)
Follow Me (UG! I loathe this song...it almost makes me mad!)
Mmm Mmm Mmm (AUGHHHHHHHH!!! I just want to SCREAM when I hear this song!)
I know I forgot some...but I'm curious what YOU think.
I remember the first song that wasn't in the Primary Songbook that I started listening to. It was 'For the Longest Time' by Billy Joel. There were nights when I would sit in the bathtub and thinking that no one could hear me, belt out what I thought were the words, "Oh, ohhh, ohhhhhhh, ohhhhh Father Longess Time. OOh, ohhh, ohhhhhhh, ohhhhh Father Longess Time. When your in the bathtub in the night, you'll be happy all your life..." I remember these words because even when I was older, I had to retrain myself to stop singing the wrong ones.
Then, when Madonna personally offended my mother with the song, "Like a Virgin", I thought I would never get to listen to the radio again. I had no idea what the lady with the crazy hair and really cool skirts was singing about. I just knew that if I was caught listening or singing along, I would probably get my mouth washed out with soap.
Time went by. My older brother eventually got a radio with a tape cassette player and we thought he was the coolest person on the planet. With the advent of our discovery of "The Weekly Top 40" our Saturday play list grew from solely Kenny rogers and John Williams soundtrack records to Weird Al, Michael Jackson, Def Leppard and about 2 seconds of any given Madonna song (however long it took my mom to leap over the couch to turn off the radio).
Eventually, we all got our own music players and my brothers and I discovered that our tastes in music were completely different. My older, more studious brother listened to a lot of classical music(...with a random bout when he listened to 'Faith No More').
My younger brother developed a taste for Oldies. (For a long time I thought my parents must have brainwashed him by tying him up, gagging him with a dirty sock and making him listen to 48 hours of "Daydream Believer" in 38 different languages).
I, on the other hand, decided I liked anything pop and after finally disposing of my 'Barbie and the Rockers' tape (I won't even admit how old I was) started listening to Tiffany, "New Kids on The Block' and Milli Vanilli (I also figured out how to peg my jeans...two years after it was cool). (Meanwhile, my mom's blacklist grew exponentially including (but not limited to): 'Pump-Up the Volume', 'Material Girl', 'I Want to Sex You Up', 'Wild, Wild West', and even more Madonna.)
Somehow, we all managed to grow up and like each other in spite of our very differing tastes. I'm happy to say that my older brother married the most fabulous and beautiful (shout out to Rachelle) opera singer and still listens to amazing music created by some of the most gifted composers known to humanity. His preferences have spanned out though. He now possesses a more diverse collection including 'The Wheels on the Bus' and 'Five Little Ducks'.
My younger brother has stayed with his roots and still loves his Moldy Oldies. He's a pro with pop-culture and could probably name any oldies song within two or three notes.
Eventually, I grew to appreciate their tastes. The first opera I went to was "The Magic Flute" by Mozart. I was stunned and delighted. Eventually I also fell in love with 'The Mamas and the Papas" and go to a happy place whenever I hear Bob Dylan.
But, with that said, I also absolutely love a collection of songs from just about every genre.
So, just for fun, I thought I would begin a discussion on what songs everyone thinks are the greatest and the worst:
Here's my incomplete list:
GREATEST:
Hampton the Hampster (don't laugh. I love it! It makes me so happy I cry)
Suddenly (truly one of the most romantic songs EVER!)
The Call
Best Days (not the naked one...the Shrek version. Imagine my surprise when I downloaded it after watching the movie to let my kids listen to it and realizing some of the words were a little different...the kids totally freaked out!)
Over My Head
Forever Young (Bob Dylan rocks!)
Hey Jude
Push
Have a Little Faith in Me
We Didn't Start the Fire (I've got to admit, I admire anyone who can blurt out as many historical facts and figures as possible in an three and a half minute time frame)
WORST:
The Pina Colada Song (I know people LOVE this song but for some reason it sends me into eyebrow spasms and dry heaves.)
Follow Me (UG! I loathe this song...it almost makes me mad!)
Mmm Mmm Mmm (AUGHHHHHHHH!!! I just want to SCREAM when I hear this song!)
I know I forgot some...but I'm curious what YOU think.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
I was tagged again!! Shout out to Kirstin!
I'm not entirely convinced that the 'no tag-backs' rule applies on the internet and I was tagged back to reveal even more crazy-weird facts. I have plenty of weirdness about me but the question is: What should I share that isn't information overload? You know, stuff that's endearing...not just weird. Honey? Wanna help? Although, don't help out too much because I know where you sleep and how much less comfortable the couch is. (Just kidding)
So here's more...
1. I rename all of my nail polish. My favorite right now is 'grape juice'. It seriously is the color of Welch's Grape juice.
2. When I paint my toes, they look plain without stickers on them.
3. I have a click in my neck that pops randomly...even when I'm not getting my neck adjusted.
4. I have a very unreasonable fear of the dark.
5. I am a recovering clash queen. I don't see much wrong with putting polka dots and stripes together, as long as they are colorful, but I am reformed so our family will look a little more presentable in public.
So here's more...
1. I rename all of my nail polish. My favorite right now is 'grape juice'. It seriously is the color of Welch's Grape juice.
2. When I paint my toes, they look plain without stickers on them.
3. I have a click in my neck that pops randomly...even when I'm not getting my neck adjusted.
4. I have a very unreasonable fear of the dark.
5. I am a recovering clash queen. I don't see much wrong with putting polka dots and stripes together, as long as they are colorful, but I am reformed so our family will look a little more presentable in public.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
What happens when you leave out a jar of Oma's homemade body butter for a 15 month old to find?
Yep, you probably guessed it...
She was positively gleaming.
A few days of religious bathing ought to subdue the glisten of uber-moisturized skin...
She was positively gleaming.
A few days of religious bathing ought to subdue the glisten of uber-moisturized skin...
Sunday, October 5, 2008
6 weird quirks about me...
I was tagged! Six weird and random things about me!
The rules are:
* Link to the person who tagged you (VivaLawVegas-Hilary http://vivalawvegas.blogspot.com )
* Post the rules on your blog
* Write six random things/unspectacular quirks about yourself
* Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them
* Let each person you have tagged know by leaving a comment on their blog
* Let the tagger know when your entry is posted
Weird things about myself, in no particular order:
1. Every two or three days I have a beauty regimen that includes a baking soda scrub for my face and a sugar and olive oil scrub for my lips. I have been doing it for about 4 years now and love the results.
2. (from He-Man) I like to clean things up before people are done with them.
3. I have OCD and particularly obsess about throw pillows, empty bathroom garbage cans and the length of my fingernails.
4. About a year ago, I researched how to clean with eco-friendly materials and have applied what I learned to how I clean.
5. I produce an embarrassingly overabundant amount of earwax, just like my dad and brothers, and now, my children...(sorry about that, girls)
6. I grew up in a family with parents who actually buried the placentas of some of their babies under trees.
Was that Too Much Information?
TAG!!! You're IT!
1. Abby
2. Kelley
3. Jen
4. Kirstin
5. He-Man
6. Mrs. Periwinkle
The rules are:
* Link to the person who tagged you (VivaLawVegas-Hilary http://vivalawvegas.blogspot.com )
* Post the rules on your blog
* Write six random things/unspectacular quirks about yourself
* Tag six people at the end of your post and link to them
* Let each person you have tagged know by leaving a comment on their blog
* Let the tagger know when your entry is posted
Weird things about myself, in no particular order:
1. Every two or three days I have a beauty regimen that includes a baking soda scrub for my face and a sugar and olive oil scrub for my lips. I have been doing it for about 4 years now and love the results.
2. (from He-Man) I like to clean things up before people are done with them.
3. I have OCD and particularly obsess about throw pillows, empty bathroom garbage cans and the length of my fingernails.
4. About a year ago, I researched how to clean with eco-friendly materials and have applied what I learned to how I clean.
5. I produce an embarrassingly overabundant amount of earwax, just like my dad and brothers, and now, my children...(sorry about that, girls)
6. I grew up in a family with parents who actually buried the placentas of some of their babies under trees.
Was that Too Much Information?
TAG!!! You're IT!
1. Abby
2. Kelley
3. Jen
4. Kirstin
5. He-Man
6. Mrs. Periwinkle
Thursday, October 2, 2008
My Testimony and what I believe...
Since I started this blog in July, I have wanted to express, in writing, what I believe. I have spent many hours thinking about what to say and often felt the time wasn't right. I am not afraid to vocalize what I believe; just afraid that someone I love may think that I don't value their beliefs so I have always found it difficult to express the things I hold so sacred.
I am and always will be a Mormon, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Growing up, in many circles I was considered a 'goody-goody' and at times I tried really hard to prove this wrong by actually inhaling the smoke of a burning tumbleweed (YUCK), using some of the foulest language I could think up and finding the most public and obnoxious places to kiss my boyfriends. Unfortunately, I just came across as a hypocrite.
A few years later, when I figured out who I wanted to be, and chose to cling for dear life to the religion that become everything to me, a friend announced she was getting married. I was thrilled for her. I wanted nothing more for her than to be blissfully happy. When I asked her the details, there seemed to, almost immediately, be a wall and she stated, "I'm not getting married in the temple, if that is what you mean". (An LDS temple is where marriages are performed. We believe that these marriages do not end when this life does). I was devastated because my friend actually thought I would judge her for her decision. I didn't know what to say and I am afraid my silence may have confirmed, in her mind, the misconception.
I never want the people I love to ever question the respect I hold for them regardless of ideals, values or religious beliefs. I just don't want anyone to question what I believe. So here it is:
**I believe that my Heavenly Father loves me. I see it all around me; the smiles on my daughters' faces, the fragrance of flowers, butterflies, He-Man's laugh, music, the taste of sunkissed berries, fresh from the vine tomatoes. the color yellow, the rush of wind through the trees, rain, the gentle tickle of a rollie-pollie bug...I could go on and on.
**I believe that families can be together forever. I can't bare the thought of this life without that hope. One day in June, a couple of years ago, I turned 30 years old. The same day our beautiful niece, Hannah was born. She was 24 weeks gestation. She lived for 20 minutes and quietly passed from this life in her daddy's arms. Later that day, as we brought her big brother to the hospital I had the opportunity to cradle that perfect, little girl in my hands. Transcending the profound sense of loss that permeated the air, was the peace that this was not the last we would see of this child. She would always be part of the family and we would see her again.
When He-Man was serving a mission for the LDS church I was struggling to find myself spiritually. I had just ended an engagement to a very nice man weeks before we were to wed. I couldn't understand why it wasn't right and spent a lot of time being really confused. As an escape, my mom and I took a road trip to the Mall of America. After spending several weeks in Minnesota and coming home with newly acquired lip gloss I paid way too much for and a salmon colored cardigan from the GAP, I was pondering what was next in my life. Somewhere between North and South Dakota, my mom was asleep in the passenger seat. I was asking myself a lot of 'why' questions when one single answer explained the last year of my life. My previous engagement didn't work because I was absolutely, inclandestinedly in love with He-Man. At the very least, I needed to find out if we could be something more.
I couldn't do anything to find out until he returned home so I would have to be patient. Sadly, after only a few wears, I left my super expensive lip gloss in my jeans pocket and lost both it and my cardigan in the laundry drying cycle but happily, I married the man of my dreams shortly after he came home. I couldn't bare the thought of not being with him forever. He is my match in every way.
*I believe in truth. It is warm, like light. It can be found all over this world. I also believe when we earnestly seek it, we will find it. God has a way of putting truth in our paths. It comes from so many places. It can be found in art, in the written word (ever read "A Christmas Carol" or "The Screwtape Letters"?), in the lives of people from every nation, kindred and country, and in the little, everyday actions of your neighbor. Part of the challenge of this life is searching for knowledge and doing your best not to turn away from it.
*I believe in the Book of Mormon. I also believe in the Bible. I can not see how these two testaments of our Savior, Jesus Christ, could possible contradict each other. In fact, to me, they compliment each other simply and beautifully. I believe they stand as witnesses that Jesus Christ is the reason we are here and has made everything good and lasting in this life possible.
*I believe in prophets of God. Why would a loving God only speak to people anciently? He speaks to us now, individually and collectively. He guides us through personal revelation and the mouths of prophets.
*I believe in Redemption of myself and others. Words can not describe the hurt I once experienced because of someone who claimed to be my friend. Upon meeting this woman, I immediately felt like we were destined to be friends. She had so many talents and abilities I always admired. She had suffered great loss in her life and I desperately wanted to help her in some way. Throughout our acquaintance ideas would pop into my head of how I could serve her and remind her she was loved. Often these efforts would be rebuffed and occasionally very hurtful words were said. Added to the situation was that we had to work closely together in the community in which we lived and had many of the same friends. Eventually, after a very tumultuous 'friendship' we agreed that our ties would be severed. Shortly afterward, we both relocated and haven't spoken since.
For a time I found myself a little angry when I would think about her. I guess I had 98% forgiven her for the hurtful things but still there was a tiny 2% of me that continued to harbor pain from the experience. I lead a happy life so that little 2% grudge started to bother me after awhile. I never want to look back on a past relationship and harbor ill-will so I began praying for a little perspective. Then I had an epiphany.
In the heat of anger and frustration I said some horrible things too. She was quite possibly left as hurt and as angry as I was. I may have been devastated by her words and actions but I was certainly no victim in the situation. I needed forgiveness just as much as I needed to give it. That was the first step.
The second step came after much thoughtful prayer. I needed to let go of any perceived right to a 'justified' grudge. I couldn't allow myself to think badly of this beautiful, gifted daughter of God. After months of spiritual wrestling, it happened. I had forgiven her for the perceived wounds I acquired and I forgave myself for the part I played in a missed opportunity for friendship.
I can not profess to completely understand the intricacies of redemption and forgiveness. It requires a power much above my own. What I do know is that it is an active choice that requires constant re commitment. I truly hope I can always remember that.
*I believe that every human being on this planet is born with their own unique beauty. There have been, throughout time, individuals who have extinguished their own beauty by the monstrosities they have committed against others BUT I choose to believe that a vast majority of people are trying to do good.
I believe many more things, but here is a good start...and a very long blog.
I am and always will be a Mormon, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Growing up, in many circles I was considered a 'goody-goody' and at times I tried really hard to prove this wrong by actually inhaling the smoke of a burning tumbleweed (YUCK), using some of the foulest language I could think up and finding the most public and obnoxious places to kiss my boyfriends. Unfortunately, I just came across as a hypocrite.
A few years later, when I figured out who I wanted to be, and chose to cling for dear life to the religion that become everything to me, a friend announced she was getting married. I was thrilled for her. I wanted nothing more for her than to be blissfully happy. When I asked her the details, there seemed to, almost immediately, be a wall and she stated, "I'm not getting married in the temple, if that is what you mean". (An LDS temple is where marriages are performed. We believe that these marriages do not end when this life does). I was devastated because my friend actually thought I would judge her for her decision. I didn't know what to say and I am afraid my silence may have confirmed, in her mind, the misconception.
I never want the people I love to ever question the respect I hold for them regardless of ideals, values or religious beliefs. I just don't want anyone to question what I believe. So here it is:
**I believe that my Heavenly Father loves me. I see it all around me; the smiles on my daughters' faces, the fragrance of flowers, butterflies, He-Man's laugh, music, the taste of sunkissed berries, fresh from the vine tomatoes. the color yellow, the rush of wind through the trees, rain, the gentle tickle of a rollie-pollie bug...I could go on and on.
**I believe that families can be together forever. I can't bare the thought of this life without that hope. One day in June, a couple of years ago, I turned 30 years old. The same day our beautiful niece, Hannah was born. She was 24 weeks gestation. She lived for 20 minutes and quietly passed from this life in her daddy's arms. Later that day, as we brought her big brother to the hospital I had the opportunity to cradle that perfect, little girl in my hands. Transcending the profound sense of loss that permeated the air, was the peace that this was not the last we would see of this child. She would always be part of the family and we would see her again.
When He-Man was serving a mission for the LDS church I was struggling to find myself spiritually. I had just ended an engagement to a very nice man weeks before we were to wed. I couldn't understand why it wasn't right and spent a lot of time being really confused. As an escape, my mom and I took a road trip to the Mall of America. After spending several weeks in Minnesota and coming home with newly acquired lip gloss I paid way too much for and a salmon colored cardigan from the GAP, I was pondering what was next in my life. Somewhere between North and South Dakota, my mom was asleep in the passenger seat. I was asking myself a lot of 'why' questions when one single answer explained the last year of my life. My previous engagement didn't work because I was absolutely, inclandestinedly in love with He-Man. At the very least, I needed to find out if we could be something more.
I couldn't do anything to find out until he returned home so I would have to be patient. Sadly, after only a few wears, I left my super expensive lip gloss in my jeans pocket and lost both it and my cardigan in the laundry drying cycle but happily, I married the man of my dreams shortly after he came home. I couldn't bare the thought of not being with him forever. He is my match in every way.
*I believe in truth. It is warm, like light. It can be found all over this world. I also believe when we earnestly seek it, we will find it. God has a way of putting truth in our paths. It comes from so many places. It can be found in art, in the written word (ever read "A Christmas Carol" or "The Screwtape Letters"?), in the lives of people from every nation, kindred and country, and in the little, everyday actions of your neighbor. Part of the challenge of this life is searching for knowledge and doing your best not to turn away from it.
*I believe in the Book of Mormon. I also believe in the Bible. I can not see how these two testaments of our Savior, Jesus Christ, could possible contradict each other. In fact, to me, they compliment each other simply and beautifully. I believe they stand as witnesses that Jesus Christ is the reason we are here and has made everything good and lasting in this life possible.
*I believe in prophets of God. Why would a loving God only speak to people anciently? He speaks to us now, individually and collectively. He guides us through personal revelation and the mouths of prophets.
*I believe in Redemption of myself and others. Words can not describe the hurt I once experienced because of someone who claimed to be my friend. Upon meeting this woman, I immediately felt like we were destined to be friends. She had so many talents and abilities I always admired. She had suffered great loss in her life and I desperately wanted to help her in some way. Throughout our acquaintance ideas would pop into my head of how I could serve her and remind her she was loved. Often these efforts would be rebuffed and occasionally very hurtful words were said. Added to the situation was that we had to work closely together in the community in which we lived and had many of the same friends. Eventually, after a very tumultuous 'friendship' we agreed that our ties would be severed. Shortly afterward, we both relocated and haven't spoken since.
For a time I found myself a little angry when I would think about her. I guess I had 98% forgiven her for the hurtful things but still there was a tiny 2% of me that continued to harbor pain from the experience. I lead a happy life so that little 2% grudge started to bother me after awhile. I never want to look back on a past relationship and harbor ill-will so I began praying for a little perspective. Then I had an epiphany.
In the heat of anger and frustration I said some horrible things too. She was quite possibly left as hurt and as angry as I was. I may have been devastated by her words and actions but I was certainly no victim in the situation. I needed forgiveness just as much as I needed to give it. That was the first step.
The second step came after much thoughtful prayer. I needed to let go of any perceived right to a 'justified' grudge. I couldn't allow myself to think badly of this beautiful, gifted daughter of God. After months of spiritual wrestling, it happened. I had forgiven her for the perceived wounds I acquired and I forgave myself for the part I played in a missed opportunity for friendship.
I can not profess to completely understand the intricacies of redemption and forgiveness. It requires a power much above my own. What I do know is that it is an active choice that requires constant re commitment. I truly hope I can always remember that.
*I believe that every human being on this planet is born with their own unique beauty. There have been, throughout time, individuals who have extinguished their own beauty by the monstrosities they have committed against others BUT I choose to believe that a vast majority of people are trying to do good.
I believe many more things, but here is a good start...and a very long blog.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Thank You, blogging buddies!!
I realized today that I am a complete blogging junkie...and I am totally okay with that! It has meant so much to me to reconnect with loved ones, catch up on everyone's adventures, and gain strength from your insights. You are all beautiful people.
Being far away from family and friends destined to be life-timers can be tough but blogging helps us not only stay in touch, but also to know all the goings-on. (Listen to me, I sound like I am in a commercial).
Thank you, everyone! You are the greatest bloggin' buddies around!
Love,
Trish
Being far away from family and friends destined to be life-timers can be tough but blogging helps us not only stay in touch, but also to know all the goings-on. (Listen to me, I sound like I am in a commercial).
Thank you, everyone! You are the greatest bloggin' buddies around!
Love,
Trish
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)