No More 3x5's

Music

2011-11-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have music in my soul. I am just one of those people. I have recently been talking to my students about the power of music. We did an experiment to see if they could literally feel music enter and later leave their bodies. It was magical! I played a very upbeat song for them and told them to remain absolutely still. They had a very difficult time doing this. I pointed out to them that music has the ability to create energy. Very few things have this capasity, for example, if you are in a large croud of people who are collectively yelling, this will create energy. However, my class was remaining completely still. They were focusing their minds on being relaxed. They were not in and of themselves the source of the energy that was created. The music did it to them. Suddenly, they were filled with a need to move. They had to find a way to express the energy that filled their bodies, and their bodies became anxious when they were unable to do so. There is a great power in this. I then had them listen to the same piece of music while focusing intently on the way that the energy filled them. I had them remain still after I turned off the music, and had them pay particular attention to the way they could actually feel that same energy leave them. (If you have never done this, I urge you to try. It is pretty amazing).

I explained that music is not a force to be taken lightly. It has the power to create energy as well as take it away. It has a profound effect on our emotions. I for one, have been moved by music on countless occasions. The first time, I remember having the experience was when I was probablly four years old. I was watching a children's program where a montage of scenery was displayed to "Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber. I remember crying and not understanding why. I have always felt that music has the power to speak to us in ways that other forms of communication cannot. Victor Hugo said it best when he said, "Music expresses that which cannot be said, but upon which is impossible to be silent."

I often hear people say that they wish life was a giant musical. I believe that it is. I believe that all of the music I allow into my soul is the soundtrack to my life.

Why I Hate Christmas Music

2010-11-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I LOATHE Christmas music!! I can barely stomach Christmas shopping because of it. I take a lot of flack because of my feelings toward it, and I am lectured every year as well. Everyone always says, "I can't understand how ANYONE can have a problem with Christmas music.", and, "How can you not want to have the Christmas Spirit all year?". It is because of this, I have decided to take a moment and justify my feelings.

First of all, let me put Christmas music into two categories: Cheesy/Sugary, and of Holy/Religious.

The first category I feel is self-explanatory for anyone who knows me very well, but for the rest of you, I will explain. I am not really that "sugary sweet" kinda gal. I prefer things that are a little dark, or thought-provoking. I despise puns and that sort of silliness. I wouldn't usually listen to a shallow, predictable melody about goofy unicorns or fairies planting sugar flowers or something....I feel that I have moved on to more adult kinds of music. I really don't care about care about the roasted chestnuts on the open fire, or the blasted silver bells on the street corners, and seriously, I throw up in my mouth a little bit every time someone whiles about their heart that they gave to some jerk last Christmas and their plans to give it to someone better this year. However, I know that there are people who love the simple sweetness of some of the more "sugary" of Christmas songs, and on that, we will just have to agree to disagree.

The second category really is the one that frustrates me the most. I have a hard time with what I call "Bumper-Sticker Religion". I have never felt that the rear window or a car or the like is really the place for my declarations of faith. My faith is very personal to me, and I honestly want to hold it in a place of highest value. I think that religion and faith should always be held as sacred, and only reserved for times when it can be expressed with utmost reverence. A beautiful gold cross, or a Star of David on a chain, or a CTR ring worn as an outward reminder of faith is, in my mind, an appropriate show of faith, however, maybe "Jesus Saves" on a mudflap is a bit much. It is because if my problem with this type of attitude that I have a problem with the Religious/Holy type of Christmas music. I love to sing it or listen to it in an appropriate and worshipful setting, but somehow the music looses something when it is performed by a boy band. I RARELY hear "Top Forty" type artists treat holy music with the respect that it deserves, and it upsets me to hear things that I hold as sacred in a callous and casual setting.

So, those are my justifications. I really don't hate the season. I love the spirit of the season and the goodness that it brings. I just never am a fan of the dorky cheesiness, and I just want the sacred to remain so.

Assuming Good Intent

2010-10-10T15:35:00.001-07:00

I have been doing a lot of soul searching of late. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt and assume that their intentions are good. I don't think that very many people are truly evil, or to quote myself, "No one wakes up in the morning and says "You know what I am gonna do today? Suck!" "

My problem comes when I have come to that point where someone has hurt me to a large degree, or taken advantage one too many times. I am realizing that I have a very difficult time returning to that place of assuming good intent. I assume that if someone has hurt me, and I have chosen to let it affect me, their intentions can never be good again. I look for reasons that the individual could be trying to hurt me again. This is an unfair assessment of people, and I realize it is a hypocritical position for me to take because I believe so strongly that people really do intend to do good in general. I also realize that I have a difficult time trusting people, and when I refuse to allow people to have good intentions toward me, I am a part of the problem, and not a part of the solution. As long as I have this attitude, I will not be able to trust people.

Things I Have Learned From Being a Waitress...

2010-08-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

So, I am just like everyone else. I have been to a restaurant and thought to myself, "Why can't that blasted waitress just refill my soda? This job isn't rocket science after all...it's not like it requires a degree of some sort. I mean, seriously, how difficult can this be?"

Well, as Karma would have it, I find myself recently employed as a server at Mimi's cafe. I figured that I could do the work...after all, "how hard can it really be?", as I have asked myself on numerous eating out excursions. I have worked for years in the medical field balancing blood draws and lab tests and billing and keeping pregnant and other hormonal women happy...I should certainly be able to handle bringing food to people, right?

I quickly learned that my frustration with serving staff was a direct result of my lack of understanding of situations. My server might not refill my drink immediately because as she was off to get my soda, one of her tables may have accused her of stealing their debit card, or other such nonsense. Here is a list of what I have learned in this position...

1. I was unprepared for the lack of respect that people have for servers. Contrary to popular belief, I am an intelligent and educated person...NOT your servant.

2. I work TOTALLY on tips. Server wage is TWO DOLLARS and HOUR!! ALL of my paycheck comes from you. Even if I wasn't flawless, please be generous with your tips. Imagine going to work all day and having your boss yell at you and tell you that today you get to go home with nothing because you suck so bad...

3. The cooks and bussers and hosts get paid...your server does not. If your food is incorrectly prepared, or your table was not cleaned off properly, this was NOT the fault of your server...so he/she should not be penalized by you.

4. If you can't afford to leave a tip...stay home or eat fast food.

5. Your server really does want you to be happy...if you aren't, please tell them so they can make it right.

6. Servers HATE "Girl's Night Out". Often, they fight over who has to take these tables. Let me explain something to you...a server is given a certain number of tables to wait on during a shift, and if you take up a table for HOURS ON END you should probably tip your server extra, because you are LITERALLY causing them to loose money. Also, groups of girls/women traditionally try to "out under-eat" each other, so the amount that you are going to tip will already be less....however, these groups usually require A TON OF BABYSITTING, so really, just be aware of what you are doing.

7. Don't assume that your server is an idiot. Believe it or not, I have a college degree.

8. If your server if forgetting something, just remind them in a polite way. They really do have a million things going on, and may have just had a table chew their face off and insult their parentage, which may have legitimately caused them to forget. Again, they really do want you to be happy.

9. If your food is not tasting the way you would like, it is fine to mention this rather than just sit and seathe. Again, what everyone really wants is for you to be happy, leave a decent tip, and come back again.

10. Mistakes will be made....are YOU flawless?

11. No one is gonna spit in your food...we are really just too busy.

12. Consider getting an appitizer and a soda. I know it costs a little more, but we really get reamed by our bosses if we don't sell a certain amount. Also, if we have a little scripted thing that we have to say...just let us say it. If a manager happens to be listening and we don't say everything we are supposed to....we may get yelled at. (And truely, we get yelled at a lot).

I totally understand that I have been guilty of many of these things pre-server...and it was because I really didn't understand the job. I am glad that I understand a bit better now, and hopefully you won't have to go through the hell that serving can be before you learn. Payback's a bitch.

What To Do With The Time That Is Given You

2010-07-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am very blessed. I have an amazing husband, beautiful and healthy children, a lovely house, an education, friends, and the opportunity to pursue whatever I wish in life. I have been reflecting of late on why it is that I have been so blessed. What is it that separates me from others that have not been so lucky? Is it fate, or perhaps luck? Is it really something that I deserve on my own merit? I believe that the answer to all of these questions is, "No". I am one life experience away from prosperity or disaster. Therefore, what right do I have to do nothing while others suffer? How will I choose to use my blessings? Will I lock them away in my house and provide nothing to others whose circumstances are different than mine? Do I truly believe that my responsibility is to those who are a part of my family only? Am I so prideful that I believe that I am superior in some way to those who were not afforded my life experience? What if it was their own doing that placed them in their current situation....is it really for me to judge whether or not they are deserving of the punishment?

I recently read a book that provided the theme "People who change the world are neither sinners or saints. They are simply people who had the courage to 'Do'". It suggested that when an individual sees another providing for those less fortunate than themselves or engaging themselves a great cause, the individual will call them a "Saint" or "Crazy". This is a form of "passing the buck". If you can rationalize that that individual is different than yourself, then you are off the hook. You can get by doing nothing. If you admit to yourself that people making a difference are exactly like you, than it is also your responsibility to change the world.

If I am a God-fearing woman....than I believe that it is my duty to make a difference because it is what God desires of me. If I do not believe in God...than it is my responsibility to do something because no "supreme being" will be there to intervene on their behalf.

I am a God-fearing woman, and I have come to the conclusion that I am blessed so that I have the opportunity to give. I believe that I will be judged on what I have done with the blessings I have received. 95% of the world's wealth is in the hands of 5% of the world's population....and that gives that 5% a responsibility to the other 95%. Remember, you are one life experience away from being out of that category.

You are always part of the solution, or part of the problem....there is no middle ground.

All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us. -Tolkien

You Know Who You Are

2010-04-28T12:11:00.001-07:00

So, this last year has been a particularly difficult one for me...for multiple reasons. There are reasons that people know about, and many that no one knows about. I am a very private person when it comes to my pain. I deal with things better when I am in control of every aspect and therefore am not one who shares my pain with others.

I am, however, learning that there are people in which I can trust. I have been amazed of late how the exact right people can show up at the exact right time in my life. I am so grateful for friends who know me well enough to notice red flags and just ask if I am ok...even if I am not up to sharing. I have been touched by how concerned friends have been, and their willingness to go to my defense even if they don't know why. It is nice to know that there are people who are on my team. Thank you for being there for me.

So, I FREAKING APOLOGIZE, then!!!

2010-04-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

I know who I am. I know that I don't fit into the perfect mold of this community. I know that I don't have the ability to blend in with every crowd that I am a part of. I am not a chameleon. I am the same person regardless of who I am with. I know that I can be loud, I know that I can be opinionated. I know that I can be a bit much for some people. I know that there are a lot of people who disagree with the things that I do and have done. I know that I hate intolerance to the point of being "intolerant of the intolerant". I also know this makes me a hypocrite. I know that I over schedule myself. I know that I am a perfectionist to the point of being unable to continue with something if I can't do it perfectly. I know that I am sometimes wound a bit tight. I know that I can't type worth my salt. I know that I don't actually know my right from my left without thinking about it for a sec. I know that I am terrible at parking. I know that I don't immediately trust people. I know that I have trust issues and daddy issues. I know that I don't have a healthy way of dealing with any big emotion. I know that I have a lot of surface friends, and very few real ones. I know that there are very few people who know the real me, or care to, for that matter. I know that I hate to look like I am not put together. I know that I am not good at sharing emotion. I know that most people like me...but don't really want to be friends with me. Which really brings me to my point. I know that I am a very flawed person. I will straight -up own my crazy. No one really needs to point out every little flaw that I have to me. Every time I screw up, it does NOT need to be brought to my attention (over and over and over). I would LOVE it if someone would take TWO SECONDS and see what I do instead of what I don't. I feel like there is quite a bit I do for people, and yet, that never seems to be recognized. I would love to be praised for the work that I do instead of chewed when it is not. I know exactly who I am. I know that there is more to me than just my flaws. I just wish that people could maybe come to that realization as well. If you really can't just love me, I would really appreciate if you could PLEASE refrain from continually pointing out all of my faults. I try really hard not to point out yours, and would love if you could find it in your heart to grant me the same courtesy.

The Spooks

2010-01-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Halloween was AWESOME this year! My kids are HYSTERICAL, and I love to get involved with the craziness. This year, I had a crazy reptile, a bat, and Little Red Riding Hood. The kids went out trick-or-treating with cousins, Tornado, and Princess. It was great. Yep, Halloween is defiantly the favorite! How can you not love the fun and creepiness of this holiday?

The Scariest Thing

2009-10-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

So, as you may know, my very favorite holiday is fast approaching...and so I thought it fitting to write about what scares me. I know that there are many who are afraid of ghosts and cemeteries and other such things, but I have never really been scared of them. In fact, I recently visited an actual haunted house with some friends, and have spent a night in a graveyard. (I know, something is wrong with me...if you feel the need to point this out, I suppose you can. Also, the video of the recent haunted excursion and a full report are forthcoming). These things really don't terrify me. I am not going to say that a creepy spider doesn't make my skin crawl a bit, or that a ghost wouldn't make my heart stop for a fraction of a second, but they don't keep me up at night either. However, the thing that really freaks me out is (and I fully understand the mocking that is comming my way for this) unnatural movement. Let me explain this a bit. You know when you are watching a movie, and suddenly the camera is sped up making someone move really fast and jerky? Or when someone is all bent inhumanly? That freaks me out to no end!! I know...it is the weirdest thing ever, but I can't watch that part in the exorcist where the girl is backward bend/walking down the stairs. It freaks me out for days! I can't watch The Ring...and not because of the plot or other creepiness...it is really just the way that that blasted girl comes out of the TV! I am not gonna lie, sometimes even claymation gets me. I am still kind of afraid of the Abominable Snow Monster in Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. It gives me the flipping heebies when he first climbs over that mountain...and on that note, so does the old King Kong. What the crap is up with those creepy eyes, and the jerky way that me moves!?!? So, while I may not ever be scared of "What Lies Beneath", or any of the classic slasher movies like "Halloween" or "Scream", just know that I won't sleep without the lights on if you ask me to watch "The Grudge", or even, potentially "Rudolf".

Sectum Sempra

2009-09-17T14:17:00.001-07:00

So, I totally forgot to write about the HP6 extravaganza that I had. (Harry Potter, and the Half-Blood Prince). I was asked by a friend of mine, Jordan Quist-Goodson, to volunteer at the HP6 party that the Jordan commons was having. I met Jordan at a few other midnight movie premiere camping crazinesses that I have been to. and so he knew that I was a but nutty for this type of thing. He also asked that Stef, (The Cap'm) join in the fun, as well as invite two others who could volunteer with us. I asked my sister-in-law Jen and her husband Devin if they could help us out. Stef and I dressed up as the Weasley twins, Fred and George, and Jen and Dev were Mad-Eye Moody, and Professor Trewlany. Stef and I handed out Pygmy Puffs, and candy from the "Weasley Wizard Wheezes" store to random people. We were assigned to check VIP people in. Jen and Dev ran the "Hogwarts Express". The evening was complete with butterbeer and cauldron cakes. By the time the movie started, we were all exhausted, but has had a really great evening.

Practice What You Preach

2009-09-17T13:53:00.000-07:00

This is another gem that I found in a parenting magazine. I have had it hanging on my fridge for a few years (it is from the September 2005 edition), and it is pretty hammered. I decided to post it here so that I can finally throw it away, but share it with you as well.

Practice What You Preach
Are you sending mixed messages about good values? See if any of these little slip-ups sound familiar.

You tell your child it's nice to help others, but you never drop anything into your supermarket's food-drive bin.

You shout,"Turn off those cartoons", but you spend every evening watching TV until bedtime.

You tell your child she's perfect just as she is, but you're obsessed with your weight.

You explain that people come in all shapes. sizes, and colors, but when a neighbor tells a racist joke, you laugh.

You tell your child to be a better listener, but you interrupt his stories to answer your cell phone.

You say it's polite to take turns, but you hog the remote control.

You tell him to control his tantrums, but you curse at anyone who cuts you off when you're driving him to school.

You say, "Use your words!", but when you're angry at your partner and he asks what's wrong, you snap, "If you don't know, I'm not going to tell you."

You urge your child not to compare herself to others, but you get jealous if your neighbors take fancier vacations than you do.

You teach that it's wrong to steal, but you take towels home from the hotel.

Things Every Mom Should Know (or, What I have Learned From Motherhood So Far)

2009-09-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

I found most of these in a parenting magazine. I thought that they were really good.

1. Do household chores while the kids are awake. Using up naptime to clean the bathroom or wash the dishes is truly soul-crushing.

2. Embrace your children's quirks.

3. Put Band-Aids on everything your kids want to...why not?

4. Lay with your kids in bed if they ask. It will be too soon before they stop asking.

5. Don't forget to play board games with your kids...sure you will have to suffer through Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders, but Connect Four and Disney Scene It are actually pretty fun. And who can resist a good game of Jenga?

6. Find out all about stuff that your kids are interested in, even if it doesn't interest you. Then, when they talk about it, listen intently, and have intelligent things to say about it.

7. A trip through the washing machine and a run under the iron can work wonders on DI clothes.

8. Try to like the books that they do. It sucks when it's "Bob the Builder", but is awesome when it is Harry Potter, or Lemony Snicket.

9. Buy kids deodorant before they need it.

10. Don't administer a punishment that hurts you more than it does them.

11. Make sure you know how your kids like their burgers and eggs cooked. This will save so much time when ordering at the diner.

12. Expose your kids to a variety of foods early and often. You will squash pickiness early.

13. You're never too old to dress up and decorate for Halloween. It is more fun for everyone if you are in to it...and it also entitles you to some candy. :)

14. Give awards for actual achievements.

15. Just throw away the poopy underwear.

16. Read to your kids in the morning at breakfast. Also use this time to practice spelling words. (Then check two things off of your To-do list).

17. Eat somewhere nice(er) instead of a fast food place, and order one entree for you and your kids and split it. This will save you money, and is not as gross.

18. Independence is a wonderful thing for everyone...and so is together time. Make sure you have a healthy dose of both.

19. Volunteer in your child's classroom. You can help the teacher, as well as observe how your child interacts with the other children in the class.

20. Teach your children healthy eating habits, and then don't beat yourself up when you have Cold Cereal occasionally for dinner.

21. It is OK to have your own hobbies.

22. Don't compare your kids to others. Just love and embrace the child that they are.

23. Expose your children to different races, religions, and ideas than your own. (Especially if you life in a community that is filled with people who all look and act the same as you.)

24. Don't compare yourself to other moms either.

25. Love every day with your kids. Don't pine for their infanthood, or babyhood too much, or your run the risk of missing their childhood. Find joy in every stage they go through.

26. Motherhood makes you a crazy person. Accept it and move on.

FYF

2009-09-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

So...I have to take a minute and publicly declare to the world what a wonderful husband I have and how grateful I am to him. I was attracted to him from the first moment I saw him...and have not ceased to be since. I can't think of anyone else in the world that would be as supportive of all the crazy things that I do than he is, and the knowledge that I have left my children in the most capable hands possible when I do go out on an adventure is invaluable. I appreciate how hard he works to make this family have every comfort imaginable, and that he does so without complaint. I love that he can listen to me talk to him for hours, and still listen the entire time. I love that he still flirts with me, and teases me the same way that he did when our relationship was new. I am so glad that I can be so in love with him...and so infatuated with him at the same time. I love that he is such a driven individual and is not afraid to push himself to accomplish whatever he wants. I love his amazing runner's physique. He is never one to say anything negative about me, and I am so appreciative of that. I love the way that he gets so passionate about something new. I love to watch him play with the kids when he gets home from work. He has never been above doing the dishes after dinner...and he has done them 95% of the time in our entire married life. I am sorry ladies of the world...I married the best!.

The Mayan

2009-09-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

So, Bryan decided that it would be fun to take the kids to The Mayan for lunch on Labor day. I have to say that The Mayan is one of my favorite places. The food is OK, but every time that I eat there, I feel like I have stepped into some kind of Disneyland extension. The kids love it as well. I love doing fun family things, and feeling like a bit of a kid again myself. I am also so grateful for a husband who values time with our family as well. I am a very fortunate individual. I also love having a family who is not afraid to embrace the ridiculous a bit as well...as you can see from some of Liza's pics. :)

09/09/09

2009-09-11T07:33:00.001-07:00

So, my birthday was a day filled with a lot of craziness. First, My sister brought me some breakfast (which was LOVELY...strawberry and cream cheese muffins).
Then, my mother and Marf took me out to purchase a skirt from the mall.

Marf was very excited to try skirts on, as you can clearly see from her picture.

I can't remember why we were looking melancholy in the picture, but whatever. I did find a really cute black skirt, though.

Next, Bry and I went to lunch with his mom. It was lovely. We ate at Red Robbin, and I had some kind of Asian Rice bowl or something.

Marf had decided that it would be a good idea to try all 31 flavors of Baskin Robbins ice cream, as I turned 31. I have to say that I don't recommend this. Although I was certain of the flavor that I wanted by the end, I had a bit of a stomach ache for a while afterward. It will be a while before I crave ice cream again.

The next event was a pie fight at the park. It was HYSTERICAL FUN!! (However, adding to my aversion to things cold, sweet, and creamy for a while). For those of you who were not in to getting this messy, I have to say that you totally missed out!! It was a scream!

The final part of the day was a movie night with a bunch of people. I don't know what my problem was, but I asked the kids to take the pictures of that event, and there were mostly pictures of the dog, and the treats that were brought, but none of people...so I apologize. We watched "Twilight" with a Riff Track. It was HYSTERICAL!! (For those of you not in the know about Riff Trax, they are tracks that you can buy that play along with movies and make fun of them. They are done by the same people that did Mystery Science Theatre back in the day.) I highly recommend watching that movie that way. And, if your have a husband that didn't originally want to watch it, he would watch it this way. :)

I had a great day, everyone! Thank you for making my AWESOME 09/09/09 birthday amazing!!

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things!!!

2009-09-11T06:53:00.000-07:00

I woke up on Sunday morning to find my kids doing this ridiculous thing. I think you will agree that it not only needed to be videoed, but shared with the world as well...

...It Smells like Horse Poop!

2009-08-31T09:15:00.000-07:00

This was a funny comment by Belle during the parade.

4th of July Events

2009-08-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July was an eventful day for our family. My girls were cheerleaders in the Kaysville Parade. They were absolutely darling! Bry and I got soaking wet in the water portion of the parade, which was followed by a giant "slip n' slide" event at the Hess Farms Park. Then we all went to the Kaysville city fireworks in the evening. It was an awesome way to celebrate the birth of this country. (...and yes, I cried at the fireworks). :)

The Pledge of Alliegence

2009-07-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

I have volunteered in my children's classrooms since my oldest entered school, and on a recent volunteer day, had the opportunity to say the Pledge of Allegiance with my daughter's kindergarten class. I remember beginning each school day with The Pledge, but I was either too young to understand what I was saying, or had said it so many times that the words had lost meaning. I found myself tearing up as I pledged my allegiance to our flag on that day. I realized that I really mean the words that I state each time I recite The Pledge. I love this country and everything that it stands for. I know that it has its faults, and is far from perfect...but it has never failed me, and I am proud to be an American. I look forward to celebrating this country's birth this week and will cry as I watch the fireworks just like I always do, (and my husband will roll his eyes and say, "Tell me that fireworks really don't make you cry", even though he knows that they do, and always will). I have made a Pledge to the Flag, and to the republic for which it stands. I believe as do many that this is truly one nation under God, and will pray always that it remains indivisible, with liberty and justice for all...as I have pledged to do on countless occasions.

The Best Job

2009-05-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

I will never understand the obsession with getting into the kennel with our dog...but I have to say, I love it! I know that every parent feels this way, but I love watching my kids grow up. I love the way that by morning, both of my girls have ended up in my room to sleep...and that I can hear some nintendo playing in the background from my son who has arisen earlier than everyone else so that he can play. I love the way that my son senses when I am nearing the end of my rope, and always takes that moment to give me a hug and tell me that he loves me. I love the way that my older daughter tells me "Thank you for this wonderful dinner, Mommy" everytime we sit down to eat...whether we are having something that I have slaved to create from scratch, or cold cereal. I love when my baby sees me getting ready for the day and says things like, "Mommy, you are so tretty.", or "Mommy, it looks dreat in here." after I have straightened up a room. I smile as they choose parts to "The Mysterious Ticking Noise" in the car and recite the entire thing as we drive, and then explode into fits of laughter when the entire cast is blown up by the pipe bomb. I laugh at the wrong words they sing to songs like "American Lumbo" (American Woman), and "In Stand an Oval" (Istanbul). Don't get me wrong, our lives are filled with the same whining, and fighting, and craziness that everyone else's are. I am just choosing to take today and focus on how gratetful I am for the children that I have, and how much I enjoy being a part of their lives.

Lonliness in a Crowded Room

2009-05-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

So...I know that everyone goes through those times where they feel alone. I don't think that knowledge helps when you are feeling that way, however. The problem is self-inflicted, in my case, as I don't ever choose to share my struggles with anyone. I have a problem with trying to appear like I always have everything put together, which I assume everyone has. I just never share anything, and so when I have difficulties, I feel very alone.

I have learned of late that this is a ridiculous behavior. I don't know why I never share my struggles with others, because there are people who are willing to be there for me when I need it. I really do know amazing people...who are not so self-invloved that they wouldn't take time to be there for me. I am in the wrong for not allowing them to be there for me if I need it. I am learning that friendship goes both ways. I know that I am forever willing to be there for those that I love, and would feel very badly if they did not feel that from me. While it is difficult to admit that I am weak, I can take the oppurtunity to lean on those that are strong. I love you all.

Easter

2009-05-03T07:55:00.000-07:00

...And I Know it Wasn't You, But Even So...

2009-05-02T17:54:00.000-07:00

So, as many of you will recall, I posted back in September about singing with a local band. As the majority of you will also know, I still sing with the aforementioned band. Bry recorded us singing the origional song that I was asked to sing with them at a recent acoustic performance. If you remember, I said something in the first post that I wrote, I said something about it being the most difficult somg that I have ever sung due to it's quick moving line, and VERY many words. Now, you can hear the song if you would like for yourself. I apologize, the sound on our small and dorky camera doesn't really do the song justice...but it is the best that we have at the moment.

Is Anyone Else Suprised that I Birthed a Cheerleader?

2009-04-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

Liza has been taking a cheer class of late. Last Saturday was her first cheer competition. The group did very well and took first place in their division. If you can't tell on the video, Liza is the little blonde that gets lifted up in the little formation (there is another little blonde...Liza is the one in the front at the beginning). She is one of the very smallest in the class...hence the lifting. I never thought that I would have a cheerleader for a daughter. I am quite certain that any athletic ability, or desire for that matter, comes from her very athletic father. She really enjoys doing it, and we were very proud of her. :)

Guitar Hero FOR REAL!!!

2009-03-23T10:54:00.000-07:00

So...just tell me that my son is darling, and we can move on. :)

Mawage is What Bwrings us Togevah Today

2009-03-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

Liza and Belle asked if they could see my "beautiful marriage dress" the other day. I pulled it out and showed them...which produced much "oooh-ing" and "ahhh-ing". Of course they said that they wanted their own wedding dresses to look "exactally the same" when they got married. I decided that they might really like to try the dress on. They loved it, and have been talking about it ever since.

Gali..Gali...Galimimus

2009-03-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Carah and I took our kids to the Museum of Natural History recently. The kids all really had a good time. They loved playing in the Native American Hut, and exploring the caves. There is a bug zoo there currently where the kids performed a puppet show for us. I took a few pictures of some spiders, but I am not gonna lie...scared me so badly that I could not even post them. I never had a fear of spiders, but I think that I left the museum that day with a developing one. The picture where Liza is in some kind of crazy crouching position is when she was trying to be a bird...I personally don't remember birds behaving in such a way...but you learn something every day! There was also a point where she tried to intimidate a 1,000,000,000 year old T-Rex skull, and I believe that she may have succeeded.

Ooh Ohh Ohh doo doo Ahhn aa-oh

2009-03-23T09:04:00.000-07:00

As so many of you know, my son is currently thinking that Kirby (you know, the litte pink puffball of Nintendo fame) is the coolest thing ever. He has passed this on to many of your own children, in fact (and for that I apologize). Ethan also loves to watch Kirby episodes and songs on YouTube. Recently, I caught him and Eliza singing along to a Kirby song in Japanese. I thought it was relatively humorous.

Ethan in LOVE!

2009-03-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

So, one day...I caught Ethan taping a paper arrow to his head. I'm not sure what was going on in his cute little mind. :) Enjoy!

Meet Kaden

2009-01-29T15:57:00.000-08:00

My family recently spent the afternoon making a snowman. The family was very proud of the snowman, and we named him Kaden. (It was a Liza pick). Although he was not with us long, we enjoyed his presence while it lasted.

Please Don't Call DCFS

2009-01-29T15:53:00.000-08:00

So, my family has aclimated well to having a dog. Liza especially...

Spying on the Neighbors

2009-01-29T10:09:00.001-08:00

Ya know...I am having a deal with people of late. I try very hard to do what I believe is right in this world. I may not view the world in the same way that everyone else does...and I have the right not to. I absolutely respect that other people may not think the way that I do, however, I deserve the same respect.

Lately there has been a lot of gossip about me and my family. It is really starting to be annoying. The people who are involved have no idea what the actual situation is, and have not had the decency to just to come out and ask me what is going on. I have a sneaking suspicion that they are not just coming to me and asking me what is going on because they may just learn that there is nothing to gossip about, and then I have taken their fun away.

I taught a class on "Beauty and the Beast" to a bunch of High School students over the summer. We had a discussion about the "boxes" that people are unfairly put into. Everyone has them, and everyone feels unfairly judged when they are put into them. I wish that people would weight the impact that stupid gossip has on a person against the fun that it is to tell a story that they do not fully understand. My husband always says, "Seek first to understand, then to be understood". No one wakes up in the morning and says, "You know what I am gonna do today? Suck!" Everyone does what they think is best. Everyone makes decisions that they believe are right. Just because you might make a different decision, does not make other's decisions wrong.

Sorry about my ranting...it has been a rough couple of weeks.

25 Random Things About Me...

2009-01-28T08:37:00.001-08:00

1. I am the "Black Sheep" of my family.
2. I feel badly when I have to throw a plant away, because it is a living thing, and I want to respect that life, but I don't flinch when I have to squish a spider.
3. I ADORE my husband!! He is SUPER-HOT, and amazing to me and my children!
4. I have a very low tolerance for pain medication. (You would laugh...I am funny).
5. I saw Mt. St. Helens erupt from my bedroom window as a child
6. I have never been outside of the country.
7. I fence. (Like, with foils and such).
8. I used to compose music...not so much anymore.
9. I once colored my hair a really dark burgandy. (Not such a good look for me.)
10. I am "mortified" for people who don't know what that word actually means.
11. I consider myself to be an intelligent person...but play dumb as a defense mechinism.
12. I LOVE to study...but I was a terrible student.
13. I was that friend in High School who convinced you to ditch class.
14. I am the only person that my husband has kissed...the same does not hold true for me.
15. I feel badly for stray things (cats, dogs, bands), and invite them to come into my life and be a part of my family. (In fact, I have one of each of these.) Bry is very tolerant of this...He is the best!!
16. I broke both of my arms at the same time when I was six years old.
17. I hate blueberries. They are the worst food in the history of food!
18. I am addicted to buying books. If it is worth reading, it is worth owning...and thus we have over 1000 books in the house.
19. I am a compulsive "ironer". I iron everything, including jeans, sweatshirts, and sometimes blankets and dishtowels. I know, I need to be medicated.
20. My girlfriends call me "Gandalf". (It has to do with a Halloween Costume from years ago.)
21. Speaking of Halloween Costumes...I have not dressed up as a girl for Halloween since I was in fourth grade.
22. I can't sleep unless my feet are freezing cold.
23. I like to go against the grain. Sometimes I do it just to shock people.
24. I am not afraid of monsters, ghosts, or chainsaw murderers in movies. The thing that scares me the most is people bending the wrong way, or moving in-humanly.
25. I used to have a clinical phobia of needles, and then something possessed me to become an MA...and now I am not afraid of needles.

What Was That Again....?

2008-12-19T08:41:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I have been working with the students at Northridge High School on their production of "Beauty and the Beast". My kids frequently accompanied me to the rehearsals, and are now quite familiar with the songs from the show. Ethan was recently singing the "Gaston" song around the house, but apparently had not understood all of the words...I thought that his new rendition of "Gaston" was quite entertaining. The words were as follows...

"I'm especially good at decorating....I want a guy, GASTON!"

Nice, Ethan. :)

How Was Your Holliday?

2008-12-18T16:50:00.000-08:00

My family is filled with insane people...which I get, isn't really up for debate. However, this is one of the more insane things that my family does. Last year, my sister had the brilliant idea to give my father the thing that he has always wanted more than anything else...a pie fight. My dad has always said that there is nothing in this world funnier than a pie in the face. Thus, last year on Thanksgiving, the first annual "Poulsen Family Pie Fight" was born.

So this year, on the day after Thanksgiving, we had our fight. It was bigger, messier, and whipped-creamier than ever before! I do have to say, that it is mildly terrifying to be hit smack dab in the face with a plate full of whipped cream--it gets all up your nose and makes for a whole lot of terrible "over-share" types of events involving cream and mucus. However, having experienced it firsthand more than once, I do have to say that there are very few things in life that are as funny as a pie in the face. Enjoy the pictures...they bring a whole new meaning to "And may all your Christmas's be white..."

Go Ahead--Just Tell Me That They Are Cute, And I Will Move On...

2008-12-18T16:39:00.000-08:00

This year, it was my job to bring pies for Thanksgiving Dinner--FIVE OF THEM! I was actually really excited for the oppurtunity to show off my "Domestic Goddess" skills a bit, however, my mother and sister are the "Makers-of-Amazing-Pies", and not me! So, the day before Thanksgiving, they assisted me in the making of the pie crusts. (The filling was canned previously..as any who read this blog will have guessed.) The three pies that are not shown here were a Pumpkin, a Banana Cream, and a Lemon Merangue...they were not as cute as my Apple and my Peach.

A Very Noisy Place

2008-12-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

So, I am apparently destined to raise a rock band in one way or another. Eliza asked for a drum set for her sixth birthday...which we ended up getting her. I now have a child playing the electric guitar, and one playing the drum set. My house is a very noisy place these days! Can it get any crazier?...Only time will tell. (My bet is on crazier, if you ask me!!) :)

Wound Up Dead...

2008-12-18T15:14:00.000-08:00

So, my children and I recently went to the Ogden Eccles Dinosaur Park with my sister and her children. As it was around Halloween, there was a little "graveyard" for the kids to play in. Thinking that it would be a fun place to take pictures of the kids, I took them over and started giving them instructions. Belle and Keith were able to grasp the concept of "look scared" pretty well, and Ethan has a good handle on "dead"...but I apparently need to have a chat with Liza about what "dead" means.....(and yes, when I took each of her pictures, I said "Liza, look dead.)

Freaks and Geeks

2008-10-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

So, my sister and I have a really good time when we get together. Recently, when my son needed his baptism pictures taken and my incredibly gifted brother-in-law offered to take them--my sister and I decided to get in on he action a bit. We jumped into the "lighting test" picture, and as you might guess, we were a little bit silly. The most ridiculous thing was my brother-in-law's response to the silliness. He took a particularly goofy picture of the two of us, and doctored it up a bit. Marf and I have been laughing about the picture ever since. I think the funniest part is Marf's unreasonably large eyes, lack of lips, and hump on her neck--but my giant nose, withered finger, and extra-large bicep are pretty entertaining as well! I just thought the world would enjoy a good laugh at our expense as much as we have!

Ethan's Baptism

2008-10-15T07:16:00.000-07:00

Ethan (my oldest son) was baptized on Saturday. Despite multiple glitches, including a near broken foot from my husband, FIVE accompanists in a 24hr period, people showing up late, and Bry and I forgetting to pack an extra pair of underwear for Ethan, everything eventually came together and Ethan was baptised. I was surprised at how stressful the entire event ended up being for me. I was really looking forward to a nice, stress-free day, but I guess that that is never really the mother's lot.

The actual baptism went very nicely. My parents had brought some water from the Jordan River in Israel back with them, and before the baptism, they put it into the font so that Ethan could be baptized in a little piece of the Jordan River. Ethan very nearly had to be baptized twice, as his foot came out of the water, but the witnesses agreed that he was indeed under the water completely at some point. Despite the many things that had gone wrong initially, it was very nice to be reminded of why we are here--which I don't know about you, but I need reminding of now and again. I have a tendency to get caught up in the details and loose sight of the big picture, as was nearly the case with the baptism. In the end however, if nothing else, I was able to re-focus--if only for that small moment, and remember what is really important in our lives, and stressful day or not, it was worth it!

Angels and Demons

2008-10-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

OK, I have to state here that my favorite holiday is Halloween. I love the spookiness and the decorating and the Haunted Houses and Ghost Stories and all. It is because of this that I feel the following declaration must be made... (Excuse me whilst I step upon my soapbox) Halloween is a time for severed limbs, jars of floating eyeballs, statues that scream at you as you walk by, and chainsaws. It is a time that is filled with things that screech, howl, and go BUMP in the night. For those of us needing a break from the usual (which I frequently do), it is a welcome time. I embrace it wholeheartedly (and by this, of course I mean this literally--by taking out my own bloody heart, and holding it in my decrepit hands in the true spirit of Halloween.) Now, as I am sure that you have noticed..there seems to be some overlap between Halloween, and another rather large holiday. I am of course referring to Christmas...which is a lovely holiday in it's own right, however, I just don't see Halloween and Christmas as holidays that should even know that the other exists, let alone be apparent friends. There is nothing that is more disturbing than walking down the isles of Halloween, watching some chainsaw dummy or phantom ghost try to scare you out of your wits, and then to come face to face with some darling cherubic snowman at the end of the isle. WHAT THE CRAP IS THAT ALL ABOUT!?!?! And I'm not kidding you, if I see one more screaming zombie that slowly pulls his head off next to a manger scene, I'm gonna scream louder than that zombie, I can tell you that! I thought that we were trying to provide that "All is calm, all is bright" kinda atmosphere for the newborn King, not scare him to death with a mirror that screams bloody murder when you look into it. I AM SERIOUS, WHAT THE CRAP IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?!?!? I understand that there are those who are anxiously awaiting Christmas, even to the extent to listen to Christmas music beginning in June, but I am sure that even Christmas enthusiasts will agree with me. Don't you think that the overlap borders just a bit on sacrilege? Look, I'm not trying to get my favorite holiday more than it's fair share of time in the great commercial parade, I'm just saying that maybe it's best to keep the Heavenly Choirs in the backroom for a while--at least until the Haunts have returned to the underworld.

There Must be an Evil Spirit in that Vegetable!!

2008-10-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

Canning season is upon us, and I recently spent a day canning salsa with two of my gilrfriends, June and Carah. (See previous post "A Day Filled With Jam and Love.) I was in charge of cutting onions for said salsa. Now, for those of you who don't know, I spent much of my adolescence working at Quizno's for my uncle, and have sliced a great number of onions in my day, and consider myself quite immune to their tear-inducing effects. However, the onions that were purchased by Carah and June were more than just onions--they were SUPER ONIONS FROM OUTER SPACE!!! I am not kidding--these onions had been sent here by their parents on Krypton and had derived their super-powers from the yellow sun of Earth. If only I had had some Kryptonite handy!!! Before long, I had sucommed to their powers, and was subdued. June, who at this point was not only unconcerned by the evil which had overpowered me, but was laughing so uncontrollably that I now highly suspect that she is one of the evil minions of the alien onion super-race, eventually was able to pull herself together enough to get me some volleyball goggles. I looked ridiculous, but my pain was lessened somewhat.

In the end, I had a thought concerning onions. While they are lovely, and add a fabulous flavor to almost all things that they are involved in--if I were the world's first person to cut into an onion, I would have been sure that the vegetable was possessed by evil spirits, and would never cut into one again! I probably would have also been sure that I had let the evil spirit out, and would forever be haunted by the spirit of the onion. I'm not gonna lie, I am not sure that I am not currently being haunted by the Evil Spirit of the Onions, as I still can smell it's evil upon my hands--days and days later!! Does anyone know a good exorcist--preferably one that specializes in onions? (I suppose that if they end up being an alien super race, perhaps Spec. Agents Mulder and Scully would be more appropriate!)

Days of Defeat/Victory (or, My Life of Late)

2008-09-26T16:20:00.000-07:00

You know the days--the ones where you want to run up the white flag and declare to the world--"I SURRENDER, WORLD!!! YOU WIN!! YOU HAVE DEFEATED ME THOROUGHLY!! I HAVE LEARNED MY LESSON!!! PLEASE JUST PICK ON SOMEONE ELSE FOR A WHILE!!!" I know that you have had them, because I think that everyone who has decided to take on the quest that is life, is defeated by it now and again. The trick is to decide that you can start tomorrow with a fresh new battle, and hopefully, you have learned a thing or two from the previous day's defeat that can aid you in the fight.

The real problem is that sometimes you are so weary from the previous day's battle, that you don't want to fight. Sometimes you are wounded, and want to take a while and heal before deciding that you can face the challenge again--but the unfortunate news is that the war wages against you even if you choose not to fight, and if you are passive, you will wind up defeated once more.

There is no surrender!! There is no rest!! No matter how defeated you are feeling, you have to fight the fight each day, and learn how to fight better from the days of defeat. Victors are those who continue to fight.

I need to remember that when my days, and sometimes weeks and months, are filled with more defeat than victory, I am not yet defeated tomorrow! If my my seeming defeat has taught me something, then I have won.

Maybe I'm not as ready to surrender as I thought...

I'm Sorry, But the Morning Ain't Gonna Come...

2008-09-20T19:49:00.000-07:00

So, I don't know what has gotten into me this year, but looking back thus far, I have done a lot of things that I have never done--nor dreamed of doing--before. I have to say that the latest of my crazinesses was quite possibly the most out of my comfort zone. A previous student of mine, Geoph (who played Jean Valjean in Les Mis at Northridge) who is currently one of my son's guitar teachers (the other is a friend of his named Simon) asked me at one of my son's recent guitar lessons if I would sing with their Ska band at their CD release party. Now, I feel that I have had ample musical experience to be able to sing with confidence, and really, how difficult can a song that a 19 year old kid wrote in his spare time working as a host at Mimi's Cafe be to sing? Apparently, if the aforementioned kid is very musically gifted, the song can literally be the most difficult piece of music that I have ever seen!! So much for my bigheaded musical experience! For those of you with any musical background, let me explain a few things about this song. It is written in 6/8 time, the entire song is arpeggios done in 16th notes--and the best part is, the pace is at about 200. (Go and find a metronone and set it to 200 and then imagine singing 2 notes in between each beat). Now you have to know that each note has it's own syllable--and so this means that you are singing over 250 words in 45 seconds.

So, after a week of doing almost nothing else but practice, I had to go and practice with the band. Now I was thrown another curveball--I had to sing the song and compete with two electric guitars, a bass guitar, a drum set, and another vocalist who already knows how to sing loudly enough to be heard over the other instruments. I was still attempting to figure out whether it is humanly possible to breathe during the song, let alone sing with any type of volume. I was then directed to a mic, that I had to do the rocker thing with and "EAT" to be heard at all!! This was very uncomfortable for me as my previous mic experience has generally been standing next to my sister with a piano 25 feet away--we are usually standing at a pulpit and being reasonably (I say reasonably as this is me that we are talking about) reverent and the mic is facing straight up at the ceiling so that we are not too loud for the congregation. Needless to say that my Avenue (the Ska band) experience was quite different.

All in all, the whole thing was very enjoyable, and terrifying--I became lightheaded as soon as the song was over the night of the party and had to go outside for a minute so as not to pass out--but they have asked that I sing with them again, and although I had to promise to sing louder, it went pretty well in the end. Yea for living life and trying new and different things!! Yea for not getting in ruts!! Yea for making the occasional fool of yourself so that you can experience as many things in life as possible!!

You're Older Than You've Ever Been, and Now You're Even Older...

2008-09-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

So, my thirtieth birthday was on the 9th of this month. (Good thing that I am still so young and hot, right?) Anyway, on the 6th, (which was a Saturday), I was called by a member of the Bishporic to tell me that the Bishop wanted to meet with me at 7:15 that evening. "Oh great!", I thought, "I am getting called to the nursery." (Not that the nursery is a bad calling, I am just enjoying my current calling in Achievement Days.) Anyway, Bry had a sitter for the evening as he wanted to take me out for some ice cream or something, and we left to the church. When we arrived, there was a sign on the door that said the bishop's office's carpet had been recently cleaned, and we needed to go to an office on the other side of the building to have our meeting. Bryan decided that we should cut through the cultural hall, and much to my suprise, it was filled with tons fo people all there to celebrate my thirtieth birthday! It was AWESOME!! There was food and dancing, and balloons and stupid pictures of me...it was really great!

There were a lot of high school students there (as I am involved with the Drama Dept. of Northridge High), and they were a lot of fun to have there, as they kept the party young and interesting. It was so fun to see so many of my friends there in one place--however really weird at the same time. You know how it is...you have different groups of people that you associate with, and in your head they are kept separate. It's kind of a shock to your system to see everyone intermingling: family talking to students, bookclub socializing with high school friends, Kimball Mill friends introducing themselves to "Forum" people--it's like watching all of the people from your favorite TV shows come together. Imagine Dr. House treating Jack Bauer, or Jim Halpert and Dwight Schrute being investigated by Mulder and Scully. It was crazy!

Overall--I was so happy to see so many of you there to help me celebrate my birthday!! My understanding is that my sister was very involved with the planning, and was a big help to my husband. Everyone was so thoughtful and my party was really great! Thank you to everyone for making me feel like I am still cool--even though I'm now not-quite-so-young and hot!!

Stay on the Designated Walking Areas!

2008-08-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most beautiful places on the planet! It is also filled with a lot of crazy things. The really amazing thing is that the craziest things frequently are the most beautiful. The boiling mud paintpots were really facinating, and weirdly captivating to me on this most recent trip. I found myself spending an unreasonable amount of time watching the mud form bubbles, and then break--making the most satisfying gooey sound!

On this trip, we also visited a place called "Fishing Bridge". It was easily one of the most beautiful places that I have ever seen in my life! (Eliza thought so as well, and said that she would like her wedding announcement pictures taken there.) Fishing Bridge is over the largest natural spring in the North American Continent. It has the most clear water that I have ever seen, and makes all of the surrounding vegitation the most incredible shades of green. It looked like something out of a beautifully illustrated childrens' book-an illustration that could certainly never exist in our drab, real-life existance-and yet, there it was. It was amazing!

The day that the family went to the "Lower Geyser Basin" (where Old Faithful is located), it was very windy! Belle spent the day wrapped up like a burrito. Ethan was very excited to learn all about how the geysers were formed and came out of the experience wanting to be a Geologist (but, really, who doesn't want to be Geologist when they visit Yellowstone? It's like watching "Indiana Jones" and wanting to be a Archeologist.). Eliza especially enjoyed posing for the camera in the wind, and talking with Keith and Ella, two of her cousins. All of my time was spent trying to keep my hat on--and literally every picture of me on that day reflects this fact.
I would say that everyone should take their families to Yellowstone. My kids say that it is one of their favorite places to go. We live in such close proximity to the park--it is an easy drive. Bryan and I also took our Honeymoon to Yellowstone--and it was a lovely and romantic place. We will return again soon!

The Madness of King Bryan

2008-08-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

My husband is an interesting guy. He can be a mellow, giutar playing, nice guy, and then become a wearing-a-tu-tu-on-his-head kind of guy in nearly the same breath. I just thought that the world should know what living at the Brady house can be like, and that I don't bring all of the madness to our lives!!

The Karma (and Dogma) of Jr. High...

2008-08-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

As has been aforementioned, I have a cat, and a dog. Watching their interactions takes me back to my Jr. High days. Imagine a seventh grader--one that is really needy and thinks that there could be nothing in this world quite as amazing as being friends with a really cool ninth grader. The seventh grader spends an unreasonable amount of time following the ninth grader around and trying to be the ninth grader's friend. (This is what I like to refer to as "love-me-or-I'll-die" disorder.) The ninth grader, for the most part, ignores the seventh grader, until they get too close, or just too annoying, and then lashes out at the seventh grader, saying something really hurtful to the sensitive seventh grader. Now, in your mind, replace the seventh grader with my dog, and the ninth grader with my cat, and the bit about saying something really hurtful with hissing, growling, and wacking on the nose, and that about sums up Chloe and Precious's relationship. Maybe I should ask a Jr. High teacher how best to handle my cat/dog situation...

A Day filled with Jam and Love

2008-07-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

Carah, June, and I spent the day on Wednesday making Carah's famous "Tripple Berry Jam". It is always a fun thing to make something from scratch that other people can enjoy. It is also a fun day to can with girlfriends. (However, I have learned that Grandmas get upset when the floor is too sticky.) :)

The jam is incredible, and if anyone wants the recipie, you will have to get with Carah. It is made with strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and love. It is so much better than the sum of it's parts.

Swim Fan

2008-07-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

Ethan and Eliza just finished their swimming lessons for the Summer. They enjoy swimming quite a bit. Ethan has even said that swimming is his favorite sport. He will have to be able to hold his breath a bit longer if he really wants to pursue it, however. :) Eliza also enjoys swimming, but she does not like to get her ears wet--another hurdle on the way to greatness, and one that I think she will have to overcome. I seem to recall that breath-holding is important, and that there is the potential for ear-wetness in swimming. Nonetheless, the older two have loved the swimming.

Whatever Happened to My Lunchbox...

2008-07-22T20:29:00.000-07:00

Last night was INCREDIBLE!! My husband took me to see the John Mayer concert at Usana, and it was AWESOME!!! My husband does not believe that any bit of three hour entertainment can be worth $70 per person, but apperently it is worth that ammount if it makes your spouse happy. I love that man!! He bought tickets for the two of us to see the show for no other reason than because he knew that I would love it--and he was right!! The concert was amazing!

It is always a great experience to see someone who is so gifted share there talent with the world--and the experience is hightened when the performer is brought joy by sharing their craft with the world. John told the audience multiple times how there was very little else that he would rather do than play his guitar on a stage and allow people those moments to forget their troubles, and perhaps gain a new perspective on things. I always find the lyrics to his music profound. I personally like to take time when I listen to his music and re-evaluate the priorities in my life, and remember to see things from another's perspective. He has such an amazing grasp of the English language, and can paint such a poetic, and yet powerful picture with his lyrics. I love the depth of his words.

I don't think that anyone can listen to John Mayer play his guitar and not come away with a new respect for what can be acomplished when one dedicates their life to music. My parents believed and taught my siblings and I that there is much to be learned by studying music, and I have a great respect for those who are truly great musically. I spent much time during the concert just closing my eyes and letting the music soak into my soul--which is something everyone should take time to do. It can be an amazing experience.

The Most Recent Craziness

2008-07-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

So, I am EXHAUSTED!! As I have not yet caught up on my sleep from "Forum", I assume that the next logical step is to camp out for the midnight showing of "The Dark Knight" for four days, is it not? Needless to say, I will crash tonight, and may not wake for a few days.

My kids and I set up a tent near the entrance to the Cineplex Odeon in Layton at about 9:30am on Monday morning. (And, yes, we were the first people in line!!) My kiddles were so excited, and I let them stay the night. We had a great time. We watched movies and played games--it was a really fun time with the kids, and something that is fun and out of the ordinary.

Wednesday evening, I was interviewed by a guy with the KJZZ Cafe morning show. I had to come home and watch myself--it was kinda silly, and in the pictire that they took of me, I swear I have 17 chins.

By the time Thursday night came around, I was pretty tired, but in good spirits--I had a lot of Dr. Pepper to drink. There was an incident where some hozer tried to cut in front of me in line, but no worries--my sister-in-law, Steph yelled at him, grabbed a hold of his shirt, and escorted him to the back of the line. It was worth waiting all of that time just for that, people!!

The movie was BRILLIANT!! I have to say that it was one of the best assembled movies that I have ever seen. However, it was also absolutely TERRIFYING! I understand why Heath Ledger was having a hard time with anxiety--anyone would while playing the Joker in that film. The movie was very disturbing, and one of the girls in my group was nearly histerical after leaving the theatre. This movie is not for the faint of heart--and I would strongly recommend NOT taking your children to see it.

I have to say, as I have said on many occasions before, if a movie is worth seeing, it is worth camping out for a couple of days to see the premire. I know that people think that I am nuts, but there is an energy in the croud when everyone has sacrificed some time to be there. I am always a little disappointed to go and see movies at more reasonable times--because the entire croud isn't laughing, or clapping, or gasping in unison. (Most of the screaming is usually still just me, though.) :)

Yea for doing things out of the ordinary!!!

A Funny Thing Happened...

2008-07-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I had a moment of temporary insanity and tried out for the Clearfield City Musical . I am not usually the type to do theatre, but having worked on Les Mis at Northridge High, I was inspired. I have to say, that it has been a really fun experience. The show is really funny, (and any of you that have not seen it really should--it's good times), and I have met some really fun people. I am hoping to remain friends with everyone when the show ends. This has been a really cool experience, one that I was hesitant to do at first. I am really glad that I went outside of my comfort zone and have had the oppurtunity to be involved with such an enjoyable experience. Yea for experiencing different things!!!

Another new Addition

2008-07-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, as my kids and I were driving home from Achievement Days, a neighbor approached us and told us that there was this little lost dog that she had been keeping an eye on, but couldn't any longer as her daughter was afraid of it. I told her that I would be happy to let her run around in our backyard until I could get a hold of Animal Control. The dog was very submissive and thin, and so everyone was concerned that she would get hurt iof left on her own. As luck would have it, Animal Control was closed for the weekend, and the dog would have to stay at our home for the weekend. Bryan and I were very careful to tell the kids not to get too attached as this dog belonged to someone else, and for them to make "Found Dog" signs to post around the neighborhood. The weekend was filled with taking the dog for walks around different areas in an attempt to find the owner, going to PetsMart and Petco and posting signs on their "Lost/Found" board, and posting the "Found Dog" signs that the kids had made all over the neighborhood, and beyond.

When Monday morning came, there was no sign of the dog's (Eliza had started calling her "Chloe") family and so I was finally able to contact Animal Control. I was told that Animal Control woudl have to pick her up and hold her for four days in an attempt to find her owners and also to make sure that she was relatively healthy (you know, no Rabies or things of that sort). If no one came forward to claim her, then our family would be the first on the list to adpot her.

After three days, the girls were so concerned about Chloe, that we took a trip to Animal Control to see what the status was on the situation. As luck would have it, Chloe was in a kennel right at the front and started to howl as soon as she saw the girls and me. We were all so sad for her and that night I spoke to Bryan about Chloe. We decided that we should adopt her, and so the next day, we went and got Chloe and brought her home. We learned from a vet visit that she is about a year and a half old, most likely a Dachund/Jack Russell Terrier mix and just weaned puppies. The vet believed that someone probablly abandoned her when they found out that she was expecting puppies. It made me sad for her again.

So now, Chloe is the newest member of the Brady household and everyone is excited, with the exception of Precious who regularly stares Chloe down, which makes Chloe whimper and run and hide. Like I always say, it may not have been wisdom to name the cat after an evil ring. :)

Don't you just hate days like that?

2008-06-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

You know the ones--the days where every concievable thing goes wrong? Eventually, it feels like your life has come full circle and is no longer pitiful, but laughable. This has been my day so far. I have been sick for the last two days and am now so far behind in my life that it is getting ridiculous. I have a lot to do tomorrow (rehersal, Belle's Birthday Party, Hannah's Baptism, just a name a few), and so need to get caught up today. The day started with my needing to run to Michael's so that I could make a flower crown for Hannah's baptism. June realized as I was working that her keys were in the car that her husband drove to work, and asked me if I could please drive her to Salt Lake so that she could get them. We packed everyone (Me, June, Eliza, Belle, Hannah, and McKenzie) in the van and I dropped her off at about 11:30. Sadly, the freeway only had a south-bound entrance where I was, and so I had to drive on Redwood Road and try and catch the freeway in Bountiful at 5th South. Apparently, however, there is MAJOR road construction on 5th South, and there (luckily for me) was also a rollover accident at one of the on-ramps there. As many of you know, Redwood Road becomes a two lane road, and so if you get stuck on it, you are truely stuck on it. I was there for AN HOUR waiting to get on to the freeway. So now it is about 12:30, and I start to panic--I have to pick up the carpool in Clearfield at 1:15, and I happen to know that there is major traffic in Kaysville due to more road construction, and so decide to exit the freeway in Centerville. This is when a very important realization is made...ALL OF DAVIS COUNTY IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!! I'm not kidding--EVERYTHING!!! I finally got to Kaysville, and not only is the on-ramp there under construction, but so is Main St. I was diverted quite a distance East before I could return to the main road. Then, as I continued to travel, (you'll never guess), Main St. in Layton is also under construction. My sister called my cell-phone about this time and said that I had made the right decision about the backroads nonethelass, as she was stuck in the Kaysville traffic, and was driving only 5mi/hr. I got to the school at 1:20, nearly two hours (and a million gallons of gas, I'm sure) after I left. Luckily, the kids were just getting out, and so all was well.

I then went home where I was berated once again by the Schwan's man for not ordering anything, and I decided to call and let Schwan's know that unless a different driver comes to my house, I will not order anything again--only to discover that I have NO DIAL TONE!!! So I am then forced to spent the next 45 minutes on the phone (thank goodness that I have a cell now) with a Quest repairman giving me instructions on how to open and test my phone line from an outside box. As luck would have it, the problem lies with Quest, and, you guessed it, a repairman will be out to fix the problem by Monday. (Today is Friday, by the way). This explains why I couldn't get a hold of anyone while I was freaking out in the car that I wouldn't be able to pick up the kids--as it turns out, NO ONE'S PHONES ARE WORKING IN MY NEIGHBORHOOD! YEAHOO!!

I still had the Schwan's Company to call, and I really tried to be reasonable, but I'm quite sure that I was not quite the happy and lovely individual that I usually come across as to that poor customer service rep. On top of everything, there is a mysterious smell comming from my kitchen that I cannot place, and none of my laundry is done--let alone the infamous ironing. I know, I know, blogging is not helping the whole "I was already behind in my work" situation, but if I loose my mind, then nothing gets done either, so I suppose that this is the lesser of two evils.

You should all call me and tell me that everything will turn out OK, and that my house smells fine, and I am amazing and can accomplish everything that I have to do--oh wait, I DON'T HAVE A WORKNIG PHONE!! Sucks to be me today, I guess. Maybe I'll gat lucky and someone will buy the rights to my life and turn it into a sitcom.

Dee and Marf escape from their abusive husband, Rasheed...

2008-05-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

My mom just returned from the Holy Land again, and this time, she brought Marf and I back these shawl things. They are really beautiful, and so we decided to try them on. My sister's husband, Matt, just got a new camera and decided that we should try and look like some kind of mid-eastern refugees and took a bunch of pictures of us. This picture was the coolest. I just wanted to share, and let all of you know that if you see this show up in "National Geographic" somewhere, it was actually taken in Clearfiend of a couple of white chicks, and not actually as cool as it looks.

Attack of the Seaweed People!!

2008-05-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

One of the days that the family was in California was a "Beach Day". My kids had a great time playing in the sand and waves--all except for Belle who kept looking around as if asking everyone "OK, we are sure that no one has a problem with this?" She was very scared of the waves and the noise that they made. At some point, Jen had the idea to wear the seaweed that kept washing up onto the shore. So, the next logical step was to join her and start a beach tribe. Kevin was the tribal leader. I think that the green of the seaweed goes very nicely against the uber-witeness of all of our skin, don't you?

Belle loved playing in the sand or sitting on a towel--far away from the waves. She and I dug a very deep hole at one point, that she took great enjoyment from later filling in.

Ethan was the brave one. He loved chasing the waves and then being chased by them in turn. He spent the most time in the water of any of my children. That kid is some kinda mamal/amphibian crossover!!

Eliza was the only one of my children that would consider joining the aforementioned tribe. I have to say, that she pulled it off better then the rest of us--but don't mention that to Kevin, he's considering making the wardrobe change permanent.

By the way, I have to thank Jen and Dev for the pics. As I said in my previous entry, my camera had gone the way of all flesh (or electronics as the case may be) by this time in the trip, and we were dependant on the kindness of others for the photos--thanks a ton!!

The Happiest Place on Earth

2008-05-20T08:19:00.000-07:00

My family just returned from Disneyland. It was the most amazing vacation that we have ever taken!! It is incerdible the way that people who are happy rub off on other people, and soon you have hundreds of people who are all happy. Everyone was friendly and helpful, and we had a BLAST!! Ethan's favorite ride was the Matterhorn, Eliza'a was "Star Tours", and Belle loved the "Winnie the Pooh" ride. My favorite has always been, and I'm quite sure will always be "Pirates of the Carribean". (Does this suprise anyone, though?) We spent three days in the park, and my kids did really well. They rode everything that they could ride--Ethan is my new "Roller-Coaster Friend". Every time that they got off a ride that was thrilling, we would all say.."You're not hard core-unless you live hard-core"!! Belle, however, would only ride things with her Daddy.

The second day in the park was "Dress-up Day". We let the kids decide if they wanted to be a princess or a pirate in the park. Ethan chose to be a pirate, Isabelle wanted to be a princess, but Eliza couldn't decide and went as a "Pirate Princess". People kept giggling at the costume, but the employees called her "Pirate Princess" the whole day. It was really fun.

This was also the day that we decided to visit "California Adventure". It was not as suited for children as Disneyland, but was really fun, nonetheless. Ethan and Eliza spent a lot of time in "A Bug's Land" in the water fountains. They had a really good time. (For those of you that have not been there--think Gateway Fountains that look like they're comming out of a garden hose.)

We did learn that Bry has really bad "ride karma". He waited in line with Ethan for Space mountain three times, however, was never able to ride it because it broke down every time! Bry and I also ride-swapped Indiana Jones, and it broke down on him as well. He nearly broke "The Haunted Mansion", but luckily, all of the kids and I, with our '"good ride karma" were able to save the day.

Sadly, all of the excitement of the trip took it's toll on our faithful camera, and it has now moved on to a better place. After the second day in Disneyland, it closed it's shutters for the last time, and would take pictures no more. We were just glad that it's final moments were taking pictures of such a happy place. It would have wanted it that way. Luckily, the third day was spent with my Mother-in-Law who came to the rescue with her camera. (Unfortunantly, at the time of this writing, I do not have the pictures that she took--so more forthcomming!!) We had a lovely time with her. The kids were so excited to share "The Happiest Place on Earth" with their Grandma Brady, who just happens to be "The Nicest Person on the Plannet", so really, what could have been better?

I think that the ride totals went a little something like...Haunted Mansion: 3x, Matterhorn: 4x, Star Tours: 2x, Indiana Jones: 2x, Jungle Cruise: 4x, The Tiki Room: 3x, and Pirates of the Carribean: probablly 5 or 6x. (What can I say, I'm the mom, and I have a lot of influence.) :) Ethan found an hourglass for his souvineer, Eliza got some princess dolls, and Belle picked out Minnie Mouse. I purchaced a "Pirates of the Carribean" blanket, and I felt like a little kid, I was so excited.

This was our first experience taking the kids to Disneyland, and I have to say, we will be taking them again. Even Bry was not stressed about letting them eat in the park--and as many of you know, it can be pretty pricey. It was just so fun to leave all of our cares and worries at the front gate, and have a truly magical few days with my family. I look forward to returning!

The Jack Bauer Way

2008-05-08T15:33:00.000-07:00

As the weather finally gets warmer, my hobbitishness starts to show in my lack of shoes, and in my love of things that grow. I love marveling at how a tiny seed soaked overnight in water and planted into the earth can yeild such beautiful and delicious things. I love that my children love to eat the things they have planted and grown themselves, and that the homegrown produce hardly ever makes it in to the house-as it is all eaten as soon as it is plucked from the plant. However, this year, I am forced to take a less loving approach to my gardening as my garden is loosing the battle against dandilions and morning glory. I have spent this year digging dirt out of my raised beds, putting liners in the bottom, sifting through the dirt for weeds and roots, and then putting all of the dirt back into the beds. I have also spent much time with the "Speed Zone" and a pressurized sprayer so as to kill as much as possible. This will be a sad year for this gardener, as it will be spent in death and mayhem instead of in creation, but as we learn from Jack Bauer--sometimes things (mostly people is his case, and mostly weeds and inscets in mine) have to die for the greater good. There is a right way to do things, a wrong way, and the Jack Bauer way--the Jack Bauer way is basically the right way, but faster and with more death. I guess this year, I'm trying the "Jack Bauer" way.

Walking for Something

2008-05-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

Today was the first annual "Autism Walk" at Cottonwood High. I went in support of my nephew, Keith, who falls in the Autism Spectrum with Asberger's Syndrome, and also to support the Cap'm, Stef Munk as she works with children having Autism at the Spectrum Academy. We were a part of the Spectrum team-which, of note, was the largest team in attendance. Myself, my sister, Marf, and friends June and Echo were part of only a handful of individuals who chose to run the 5k (however, I highly doubt that the distance was an actual 5k, as my finishing time would have been miraculous) . We finished the walk before many finnished their first lap, so we thougth that we were rock stars!!

Marf and I were able to sit and talk while we were waiting for the others of our group to finnish, and we reflected on how important it is to not only accept people's differences, and love them in spite of them, but love the differences as well. Accepting people is only half of tolerance-the other is the loving. If we would only seek to understand another's point of view, we would be less critical, and more loving and understanding.

I was also remeinded of another race that I was able to witness last year. This race was the St. George Marathon which my husband participated in. We (myself and my mother and father-in-law) were watching the runners as they crossed the finnish line after running 26.2 miles. It was a very emotional experience for me to witness the human experience in such a raw and revealing way. The thing that was the most amazing to see was that the cheers of the crowd literally made the runners able to run the last few feet with a burst of speed or a spring in their step. There were those who were on the verge of, or in the process of collapsing, but the crowd's encouragement could get them back on their feet. It was a very interesting thing to witness and understand how much we all need that support from others. We all need people on our team. Everyone needs to know that there are people cheering them on, and it is amazing what more we can accomplish with that knowledge. I think that this was especially relevant today as we walked for Autism. These are people who need a cheering section more than they need critics. So much more good could be done if we could stop telling them what they are incapable of, and start praising their accomplishments. I want to be one that is cheering!!

The New Addition

2008-05-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ethan was very excited to find that his new guitar came by FedEx truck to our home on Thursday. As was aforementioned, his life's ambition of late is to be a real "Guitar Hero", and we were all very happy to help him realize his dream. He has been practicing every day since the arival (three days now) and can now play a Dmaj open chord as well as an Fmaj open chord. He is anxiously awaiting his first concert--which will be tommorow (Sunday) at his Grandparent's home (Brady). He will be performing "Meditations and Variations in Dmaj and Fmaj". It should be a smash hit, and I will let all of you know where you can pick up his debut album.

I had a little talk with Ethan yesterday about the tradition of naming instruments-especially those that are stringed. I told him that while not everyone names their instrument, many do, and it is traditional to name your instrument a name of the opposite gender, for example, my viola's name is Brett Maverick. (This was during my Mel Gibson phase-My car at the time was named Gibson). Ethan thought about this for a minute, and decided that the best name for his guitar is Cho Chang. He then asked me if I would change my viola's name to Oliver Wood. Yea for the Harry Potter craziness at the Brady house!! You people didn't know that you could be a hard-core rocker and a HP fan, but that myth can now be laid to rest!!

Reading with children

2008-04-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

As most of you are aware, I am a pretty voracious reader, and have been for the majority of my life. I have been excited to try and pass this on to my children and have therefore been waking my 1st grader up earlier than in needed so that I can read to him. He was really not into it at first, but as we have gotten more into the story, he is becomming more and more excited--even giving up his Nintendo time occasionally to have the story read to him. The story that we have been reading is the Harry Potter series. I know that there are those out there who are critics of JK Rowling's work, but I felt that the series was incredible, and I appreciate her providing me with this oppurtunity to bond with my son. The series has opened up a new world to him, and has helped me to share something that is improtant to me. I look forward to each morning's read as does he and am glad that we are sharing this.

My daughter has decided that when she starts kindergarten, she should be able to choose her own story to have read to her. What book does she want you ask? She is calling it "Jean Valjean Book". I'm not sure that Les Miserables is quite suited for a five year old, but what can you do?

Defeat is always momentary...

2008-04-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling defeated of late. There is so much that is required of me, and I feel that I am failing in so many ways. I have been wanting to raise the white flag and surrender myself to whatever force is winning the battle in my life. I have, however, found some comfort in a quote that I once heard regarding defeat, and that is "Defeat is always momentary." I have decided that no matter the loosing battle that I may be fighting, there can even be hope in defeat--for no one is ever permanently defeated.

My Little Buttercup....

2008-04-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

Did you know that my husband has this side to him? I know that a lot of you see my husband as this serious guy who does not fit with my personality, but you are wrong..we are acutally exactally what the other needs, and our sense of humor is the same. It just takes a while for him to be comfortable enough around people to show his craziness. Those of you who have seen it will vouch for his craziness.

The People of Late

2008-04-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

At present, the kids are involved in a ton of things...

Ethan is anxiously awating his guitar. Bry ordered it online, and it should be here sometime this week. Ethan is excited as he has the soul of a rocker, and has since he was a baby. We did officially decide today that a fauxhawk is better than an actual mohawk on the grounds that a mohawk necessitates bic-ing of the head two to three times per week, and therefore, the fauxhawk is better.

Eliza is doing fantastic in gymnastics! She is really close to moving up to the next level. She is going two times a week and has really caught the gym bug. It makes me so happy to see her so excited about something. She is also involved in soccor and will begin t-ball this week. She is the only five year old I know with definition in her arms and calves, and a six-pack.

Isabelle is growing so fast. She is really into princesses of late and has decided to be a ballerina when she grows up. I would love to put he into a little dance class, but I'm concerned that she is a little young for that. Anyone have any thoughts on that? Is three too young to start classes of this nature?

The whole family is really excited to be going to Disneyland in May. I Bry and I have not been since we were teenagers, and the kids have never been. If anyone has any great tidbits of info to share on how to make our trip a success, please share.

Bad Mommy Days

2008-04-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those days where you wonder why you chose to become a mother? There are the times where I feel that my children would have been better suited to live with another, more patient and knowledgable parent than I. I guess the question is, Is there anyone who ever really feels up to the task of motherhood? I would love to meet a woman who does, because I have some questions for her. I just cannot believe all of the things that one must do to be a "good" mother, and if you choose one over the other, there is inevedibly someone who will classify you as a "bad" mother for it. And these are for the reasonable things..let alone the times where I loose my temper, or am at a loss as to what I should be doing. I am also continuously suprised at the times when women want to put down another's mothering--are we really all so self-consious about our parenting that we really must put another down so that we feel adequate? Sadly, the answer must be yes, as I see no other explanation for this behavior. I think that the sooner we realise that we are all doing the best with what we are given, and that we all feel unequal to the task, we can help strengthen each other and be there for one another, as I think that we all need support. And if our peers are not our strength, then who is? Motherhood is hard, and anyone who says differently is lying to you. I have enough pressure worrying that I am doing right by my own children without feeling judged by every other female on the plannet. Is there ever a way to stop comparing and to start supporting?

Unless one of you is a perfect mother--and then I would gladly hand my children over to your more than capable hands, as I am at a loss sometimes as to how to help them. It's hard to love someone so much that you want to do a perfect job for them, and somehow still come up short--or be at a loss as to what is the best solution to a problem. I just hope to convey to them that I wanted to do a perfect job as a mother--and know that perfection is what they deserve--and I hope every day that my best is somehow sufficient--albeit flawed.

2008-04-25T10:16:00.000-07:00

Venting at Home Depot

2008-04-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Today I looked for some incecticide at Home Depot. It was to be a brief errand on the way to my daughter's gymnastics class, but somehow things seem to take longer at Home Depot than is reasonable. The incecticide had to be specific--it needed to be safe for citrus trees (as this is where I would be placing said incect poison) and needeed to kill mealybugs and their eggs (as this is what is currently infesting my lime tree). I knew what I had and what must be done because of a man named John who talked to me for probablly 45 minutes on the phone the other day about my problem--which was very nice as he does not know me-nor did I purchase my tree from his establishment. But I digress--the wall on which the incecticides were located was emmense, and there were mulitple types to choose from, however, after reading the labels of five or so, decided that my time was too precious, and my children's patience wearing too thin to stay and read all of the lables. I could not locate an employee of the store anywhere, so I walked to the Customer Service counter, where two young women promptly turned their backs to me and began talking. I said, "Excuse me, is there a way that I can have someone help me over by the incecticides? I have a few questions." One of the girls paged someone, and resumed her conversation about who had never called her back last night. I walked back to the isle, where no one came, so I started reading again. After another five minutes or so, I located my Holy Grail of incecticide--one that was not only safe for citrus, but destroyed both my mealybugs and their eggs. So I took the bottles and headed for the checkout counter--all the while watching to see if anyone answered the apparent page for customer assistance. Does it suprise you that no one ever came?

All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.

2008-04-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

The title for this blog may be confusing to some. I don't know how many of you are famililar with John Mayer and his music, but a lot of what he has to say to the world reflects my own thinking and beliefs about the world, and this is the reason for the title of the blog. In his song to which this blog owes it's name, he examines how one should see the world in the present and not continuously look for ways to capture a single moment in time--for in the capturing, one frequently misses the moment altogether. I believe that there is something beautiful in each moment, and that one would do well to find joy in each moment--if for nothing else than to rejoice in the life that you are given. This is the reason for the title.

Giving it a try

2008-04-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

Is this thing on...hello? Testing, testing.......uh-hem.....