Operatic Chicken

I really would like to strangle the operatic chicken in the apartment next door!!!!
From the sound of it, I'm guessing the lady next door is a vocal major or something. 
Often I hear her practicing her scales or singing along to Disney songs or Faith Hill.  Today the sound reminded me of a chicken.  I'm not sure why because it didn't really sound like a chicken (cluck, cluck, or bak, bak, bak) but that was the first animal that came to mind. 
Singing is not the only sound we hear through the walls...and I'll leave it at that.

AHEM!

So anyway, I was annoyed and wanted to vent. 

The end.

A Pile of Dishes

Well, besides the pile of dishes that are actually sitting in my kitchen sink, I meant the title of this post to be moreso of a play on words; You know, to "dish out", to divulge things to you, my friends....Haha. Except I just looked up the term "to dish" and I'm probably not using the term right...but whatever! Back to the point.

Around the end of September of this year, my department at work was called into a meeting. In said meeting we were "unofficially" forewarned about the future loss of our jobs. Our department would be dissolved due to the rollout of a new technology that would in turn make our jobs obsolete. Rumors of this big change had been circulating for at least 5 years and finally, it was now becoming a reality. It took awhile to sink in, but at the beginning of November we got the official "separation letter", aka we were being sacked.

Yes, in this economy.
Yes, just before Christmas.
Yes, all while being a newlywed and college student.
Yes, it sucks.

My job provided most of our income, health insurance, and probably the most valuable benefit was that we both got half off of our tuition. That is a big chunk of dough we saved. It was mentioned we would have assistance in being placed somewhere else. Did that happen? Not really. Our "severance package" (if you could even call it that) was that we would get paid through December 5 regardless of whether or not we had to work (we finished the work early November), and It's not like I've been sitting on my butt waiting around. I've been doing my part, applying to jobs, editing my resume, making calls to HR about this and that, following up on the emails notifying me of my application being forwarded on to the hiring department. Still, not one phone call for an interview. Sigh.

Despite the worry, the tears, the frustration, the shock, the anxiety, I have faith that everything will be fine and things will work out. I am very fortunate to have such an optimistic and supportive husband who stops whatever he's doing to wipe my tears and wrap me in a warm hug. I have wonderful family and friends who have their eyes and ears peeled for job openings I might qualify for. I have faith in a loving Heavenly Father who will always take care of me, even if logically it might seem impossible. I have a shelter from the cold and food in my belly. I do have plenty to be grateful for.

Throughout this ordeal I have been thinking about a few other things too that have sort of been weighing on me, most of it related to school because I have been feeling bored with my classes and not really excited about it. I have wondered if:

...I should change tracks??? Switching tracks would delay my graduation but it would give me a credential that would make my degree more marketable. It might be worth it....but really I just want to be DONE and get my degree at this point.

...I ought to take a break for awhile and find out what I like to do/am good at??? I'm not really sure what I'm good at or what I have a passion for so I want to figure that out. Due to the job situation, I'll likely be taking a break from school anyway so that we can keep our heads above water financially...well then, I guess that's decided.

...I should change majors??? That kind of scares me. I feel overwhelmed at the thought of basically starting over, thinking that these last few years were a waste of time and money and noting how most of my friends are graduated, in their careers, moms, or finishing up grad school. I feel like a pathetic loser when it comes to school sometimes. B and I have had several conversations about this. Yesterday we went to the photography studio where my sister works. After we left we talked about how maybe I'd be happier and do better if I were to go back to an artsy type of major. Right now I'm in a health related major, which I find interesting, but I guess I don't really LOVE it, so that doesn't help with the motivation factor.

So some background. When I originally started college, I planned on majoring in visual art and design. All through high school I took commercial art classes and some concurrent courses and that was the plan. I later switched a bit and decided multimedia might be good since I could combine my creativity, natural artistic talents and my mad computer skillz doing websites and stuff like that. At one point I thought about being an occupational therapist, a speech pathologist/therapist, and then I thought I wanted to be a dietician. I was planning on going to a school up north, get my bachelor's, become a dietician and enter the professional work force. I kept going back and forth on the idea and then I decided I'd put school on hold, go on a mission and figure it out later. I came home from my mission, finished up my general ed and got ready to transfer to the school up north. If I remember right I applied twice, and was denied both times. The second time I applied I applied to the U as well and applied for a full time position at my work. The same day I was offered a full time position at my job was the same day I found out I was accepted at the U! So I stayed in town, living with my parents and about a year later, I met B. A big lesson I learned was that sometimes what we want isn't what is best for us. I feel like now I am learning a similar lesson, but with more attached to it. What I am learning now (very slowly) is that I ought to do what *I* like and what makes *ME* happiest, without worrying about what anyone else wants for me or thinks I should be doing. For some reason it's a hard lesson for me. I suppose it's because I've always been a people pleaser type. Well, I need to get over it huh. So, now I am seriously thinking of going back to the community college and getting a degree in something art related. Yes I know, a VERY roundabout way of returning to my roots, but I suppose that's how things were meant to go for me.

Is there anything worse....

......then having to let one rip in a very very quiet place (like a library)?!?!?!  Hmmm.

2 Months Ago....

...was one of the most AMAZING days of my life! I can't believe two months have flown by already since I married my best friend!!! After we came home from our honeymoon we had a week and then we jumped right back into school, so things have been preeeeeetty busy since. I'm working and schooling full time (and somewhere in there looking for a new job since our dept is getting laid off) and B's school is pretty intense, so.....let's just say we are VERY happy this upcoming week is fall break so we can finally relax a bit (and maybe actually SEE and talk to our families?!?!?!) and perhaps I can finish Thank You cards.....I'm about a third way done.  That's pretty good......right?

There's a lot to catch up on...but I'll do that later.....maybe. I was thinking of switching to a "family" blog, but then I'm kinda torn because I'm not sure I even want to bother with the blog thing. Leave a comment and tell me what you prefer?

Bye for now.

Whew!!!!

Hey hey, it's been awhile, I know.  Life has been and continues to be crazy busy. 

Well, the wedding was fabulous!!!  Everything turned out perfect and we are so grateful for the many friends and family who supported us and helped in all sorts of ways.  It was a beautiful day all around.  Although parts of the day are now a happy blur, it was very memorable and B and I were both very pleased with how things just worked out and with everyone behind the scenes, it all went smoothly and we didn't have to worry about a thing.

 

As wonderful as it all was, I have a teeny tiny confession.  There is a little part of me that is a little....sad?  Yeah, so maybe it's that hard-to-please bit in me...don't judge, remember I'm only human.  It's just that....ok here goes.

 

When coming up with the guest list I thought about it for several weeks.  I made list after list (partly because I'd make one and lose it and have to start over).  I thought of all the people I've met throughout my life and of course I wasn't expecting every single person to show up. I hoped not to miss anyone.   Well, when the day finally arrived, it was interesting who ended up coming and who didn't.  A bunch of people whom I thought probably wouldn't come, were there.  Others didn't show and it was no shocker due to an already flakey reputation.  What makes me a bit sad though is the ones who didn't come, but I thought would be there.  Particularly those whose bridal showers, weddings, birthdays, baby showers, etc I've made an effort to attend over the years.  I realize stuff comes up and appreciate those who after-the-fact sent a message or card indicating how much they would've liked to have been there but for (blank) reason coudn't, but others, I'm surprised at the lack of acknowledgment.  Makes me think: Hmm..it's only like....one of the MOST important moments of my life....why weren't you there to share it with me?  It was eye opening to see who really cares about me and who doesn't.  That might sound bratty, but really I think that's what it comes down to.  Guess I know who I can and can't count on, eh?

Down to the single digits!

Yaaaaay!!!  I'm getting married in 8 DAYS!  I can't believe how fast these last couple weeks are flying by (but I'm not complaining!)  I'm so giddy excited.  We just have a few little things to wrap up but otherwise we are set!  It's so nice not having the looooooonnnnng to-do list swirling around in my mind every waking minute.  It was starting to drive me a little crazy, but now we can relax and enjoy our last days of being an engaged couple.  Whew!

 

Last weekend I went down to St George with B and the fam.  We went to see "Tarzan" at Tuacahn Ampitheater.  It was my first time seeing a show there and it was SO awesome!  They did cool flying tricks and it was beautiful to sit under the starry sky surrounded by the red rocks.  :D  They guy who played Tarzan was pretty ripped and B's sisters were very excited about getting a photo with him while he flexed.  Haha.  We went to a lake, the hotel pool, enjoyed french toast sticks for breakfast, hung out with some extended family, got a flat tire, and ate lots of junk food (and in honor of that, B made up a song about how if we kept eating all that junk we'd end up being big fat lards.....all to the tune of Phantom of the Opera!  I wish I'd recorded it because it was hilarious!)

 

We went to a friend's wedding on Tuesday and it was fun to see them all happy and realizing that it won't be long before OUR day arrives!!!  On the way up there we stopped to buy their gift at Bed, Bath & Beyond and I saw these adorable measuring spoons that we HAD to get for them.  The teaspoon said "a pinch of patience", the tablespoon said "a heap of laughter" or something......How cute is that?!  We also found the funniest card ever.  Dang I wish I'd gotten a picture of it.  It had a bride and groom cake topper looking image in the front and the groom had a surprised expression.  Open it up and it's the view from behind and the bride is grabbing his butt!  It read, "To have and to hold....Congratulations!"  Hee hee!!

 

Anyway, this is a really random post....maybe I'll get some pics up later.

Ciao!

I love to see the temple...

I'm going there in 19 days!!!!  I can't believe it!  Time is flying SO fast.  Yesterday we met with our stake president for our final priesthood interview (well, not our last one ever...but you know, last one before we're married).  He gave us some excellent counsel and congratulated us on our decision to be married in the temple.  Although it seems so common at times because of where we live (and having about 13 temples easily accessible), he mentioned that in comparison to all the millions of people in the world, we make up a relatively small percentage of choosing to take that most important step.  I look forward to being sealed to B not only for time, but for ALL ETERNITY.  That's a long time to be with someone......ha.  I'm so excited though!  He asked us an interesting question.  Paraphrasing: What do you hope most to get out of your marriage? B, being the gentleman he is, let me go first (Um, thanks B! haha)  After giving our answers, President D said those were good anwers, however he asked us to consider the following answer instead:  Happiness.  

 

The elements we hope for in our marriage are guaranteed as long as we are loyal to the covenants we will make to each other and to God, however, being married doesn't necessarily guarantee happiness.  He reminded us of the scripture in Alma 41 in the Book of Mormon, which teaches us that "wickedness never was happiness".  He pointed out that if wickedness never was happiness, that means that the inverse is true; righteousness is always happiness.  I like that.  And it's true.  And not only applicable for people getting married, it is applicable to every single person.  When we choose to live God's laws, we are happy.  Perhaps our circumstances will not always be perfect, but in the long run, having a clear conscience, and knowing we are headed in the right direction certainly brings happiness. :)

Crappy Customer Service

Seriously, SO annoyed.

I'm sure we've all had some experience with terrible customer service at some point...By far, my experience with American Laser Centers has been the absolute WORST (hint hint, don't EVER go there!!!).

 

Back in April I signed up for a bunch of contests at the bridal expo I went to {Note to self: Signing up for contests/sweepstakes/the car on display at the mall=SO not worth it.}  A few days later I was kind of excited when they called me and told me I'd won a $300 gift certificate. 

 

I set up a free consult and talked to the manager who showed me all the options available.  The thought of getting laser hair removal done and not having to wax or shave ever again was VERY appealing.  Thankfully, I had a tiny ounce of sense in me and instead of agreeing to a $2000+ laser treatment plan on the spot (broken down to payments of about $120 a month for 2 years making it seem do-able), I told the manager I would need to think about it a bit and check my finances.  However, she did sell me on a microdermabrasion facial package for $270 which we charged to my credit card before I left the office.  

 

I discussed it with B that night.  Financially, it was a possiblity.  B said that if I really wanted to do it to go for it.  Still, I wasn't feeling too confident about it, and since we are getting married soon, I just didn't feel right about spending money on that type of thing.  Certainly a want and not a need.  It did sound like a pretty good deal though.....

 

The next day I looked on their website and they were offering a $2000 gift certificate to the first prize winner of the online contest.  Being the sucker than I was, I signed up.  To my surprise, they contacted me shortly thereafter, saying I had won a $300 dollar coupon to put toward services. 

 

First thought :"SWEET!  Now I could get $600 off the package"

Second thought: "Wait a minute, that's kind of odd they would call me so quick..."

And the thoughts the succeeded:

"This seems suspicious."

......

"I bet they give EVERYONE $300 off.....but they probably just jack up the price so they don't lose any money, but it seems they're being generous."

........

"OK, this has GOT to be some kind of scam."

 

At this point I hopped on the internet and Googled "American Laser Centers scam".

Sure enough, tons of complaints.  Now of course, you can't believe everything you find online, but the complaints seemed legit, and just made me worry even more.  A few had posted about how they wouldn't give refunds and all this stuff and I'm like, "Oh great....."

 

That afternoon I called up the ALC clinic and asked for a refund, that I'd changed my mind.  The manager said that since I hadn't received any treatments yet, she'd be happy to initiate the refund with a written request which I could do via email, and warned me it could take a couple months because it had to go through their corporate office, blah-blah-blah.  Ok, whatever.  I hung up with her and two minutes later sent off my written request.  That night I also called my credit card to see if they could put a stop payment on the transaction, but since it'd already gone through they couldn't. 

 

Fast forward 12 weeks (to today), and numerous phone calls and emails to the local and corporate office PLUS making arrangements with my credit card company to get a temporary credit on my account while things got straightened out so I wouldn't have to pay the scammers a cent, or have it mess up my credit, they FINALLY tell me that the request has been put in and it's gonna take another 4-6 weeks to get my refund.

 

What. the. heck.

 

The local office manager finally called back and emailed me, claiming she had tried calling me many times and not being able to reach me (hello, that's what voicemail is for!)  Better yet, she offered a complimentary service of my choice for being patient throughout this process. 

 

Seriously?!?!?!?!  I ask for a refund and you think you can fix things by offering a free service when I don't want to have anything to do with your business!?!?!  What is wrong with people!  I hate when businesses do that, offer you something for free when you are complaining about them.  Obviously you're not satisfied with the service to begin with so what's something free going to do.  Messed up.  I just want my refund and to not have to deal with you anymore!!!!

 

Anyway, so that's my awful customer service experience.  What about yours?

Magical Potion

It all started last Thursday with an excrutiating sore throat.  I am one to actually have a pretty high pain tolerance, but worried it could be strep or something, I went in to see the doctor first thing Friday morning.  The strep test came back negative.  My throat killed the rest of the day and later that evening, a minor cough started, and some nasal congestion.  I tried everything under the sun...Vitamin C, Advil (for the pain), Benadryl-D (for the congestion), Sudafed (the kind you have to ask for at the Pharmacy counter and get ID'd for), saltwater gurgling & nasal drain, a homeopathic remedy of apple cider vinegar mixed with honey (it actually wasn't too bad, but had a sharp kick to it--making me wonder if that's what liquor is like).  I didn't get much sleep having to wake up every hour to blow my nose, oh...and to wipe away the icky goo from my eyes (I am grateful I only had "upper" issues though!).  Great, now I wondered if it was pinkeye.  I took precautions by using my own towel, washing my hands a lot, and using a separate washcloth for each eye.

 

Sunday morning I was out of commission.  I could hardly talk and when I did it was more of a croak.  The eye goop was worse.  Feeling miserable, I took it easy, spending the whole day in my PJs.

 

Monday morning I went to the doctor again, and another $20 copay later, I was told it was a cold and I could expect to fight it for up to 14 days.  She gave me some eyedrops for the eye situation and prescribed some cough syrup.  I took the rest of the day off work.

 

Yesterday my coughing fits were probably at their worst.  I popped cough drops all day.  That helped with some of the throat soreness but that was about it.  Last night I found a magical potion however!  This:

 

 

Good ol' Vicks Vaporub worked wonders.  I actually slept through most of the night without coughing!!!!  It was amazing!!! My mom made me some hot apple cider with honey (which I never really liked but now I'm slightly fond of) and that soothed my throat.

 

Today I feel MUCH better.  I look a bit odd with a very wintery outfit (scarf around my neck because I put on some Vaporub), but hey, at least I'm not barking.  Oh sweet relief!!!!

Graham Crackers

Scene:  I'm taking a munch break at work, listening to my iPod, snacking on some chocolate graham crackers.....over my garbage can.  Yes, you read that right....over the garbage can.  You see, these particular graham crackers are rather crumbly. 

 

In walks a lady and stands behind me asking me if I know where the envelopes are (but I can't hear her as I'm enthralled by the song that's playing..."That's Amore" from Enchanted). 

 

I turn slightly in my chair so I can see who's behind me and suddenly quite embarrassed....

 

AWKWARD.

 

haha

Nightmare

Last night I had a nightmare about my Stats final (which is tomorrow).  In the nightmare I looked at the test and it looked like stuff I had never seen before .   A bunch of symbols and numbers.....and just one jumbled mess.

 

Actually, in the dream, I felt a lot like I did during last night's quiz (isn't it wierd that sometimes we can remember feelings from our dreams?).  I had no idea how to even do the problem.

 

Better hit the books tonight and go over my quizzes....I don't want my nightmare to come true!  (and I sure hope this is the last math class I ever have to take!)

Sisters

Friends come and go........ (boy, do they ever!)

But sisters are forever!!!  I love my sisters.  I'm so lucky I have such awesome ones.

When you know, you KNOW. You know?

Making up for lost time here (lack of blog posts!), hehe.

 

Last semester, B's roommate was kind of sad because he wasn't dating anyone at the time. 

Well, proof that life holds some fun and interesting surprises...He is now ENGAGED!  What's more, they have been dating for about a month AND they are getting married BEFORE us! What the crap?!?! Hahaha.  I am really excited for them even though I think they are CRAZY!!!!!  :)  So they have like 6 weeks to put together the wedding.....good luck!  Hey, when you know, you KNOW.  And when you know that you know, it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks or says because you KNOW it's the right thing!  Having that sure knowledge about something is so awesome!!! :)

 

I'm glad I had like 4 months to plan "stuff"!  Really when it comes down to it, who cares if you do a reception and all that stuff?  All a matter of preference, eh?  As long as it's the "right person, at the right time in the right place" the rest is just details.  The details can be fun though (and sometimes stressful enough to want to elope! haha). 

 

Being engaged has been really fun!  It's an exciting and happy time and I've very much enjoyed continuing to learn about each other, making goals together, making decisions (like picking out towels, pots and pans, and avocado slicers...that was HIS idea, which he was VERY excited about when we were doing our wedding registry, hehehe).  I still think sometimes, "Wow, is this really happening?!  Did I really get this lucky to find someone so amazing?!" and yes, it's true.  It blows my mind.

Statistics in every day life

So, funny story. 

I'm taking a short session statistics class this summer.  Twice a week for 3 HOURS (Yay, only 3 more classes left until I'm done!!!!!) 

 

Earlier this month I went to my future sis-in-law's high school graduation.  The venue for the graduation was packed.  I think it was the senior class president who have a speech and someone he related the high school experience to a Cafe Rio taco (yeah...I dunno....but let's just say we were all craving Cafe Rio after that!)  Then they began the reading of the student's names and presentation of their diplomas.  Being a formal setting they announced to please refrain from cheering or clapping as the noise would make it so name's being called wouldn't be heard.  Of course, there were those who did as they pleased and made rude disruptions.  (Ugh...that BUUUUGS me!)

 

Anyway, as we sat there (somewhat bored) we listened to the cool organ music being played (songs from Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Sound of Music, etc) as a name was called, the student walked across the stage, was handed a diploma, shook hands with the principal, had their photo taken {snap, snap} and proceeded to exit.   Moments later B leaned in and shared his observation with me.

 

Some kids had honor cords and ribbons.  Others did not.  He observed that when the kids with honor codes were called up, it was quiet.  When the kids that didn't have any honor codes there'd be a huge cheer from somewhere in the crowd.  Of course there were exceptions.  Some of the honor students got cheers, and some of the non-honor students supporters remained quiet (therefore there were some outliers). So B wondered whether there was a correlation between the cheers and whether the kids had cords or not. 

 

We continued watching and it made things much more entertaining to see how accurate his predictions were!  We thought that some possible explanations might be that the non-honor kids had family/supporters with a disregard for rules or lack of respect (i.e. cheering when asked not to) and that was passed down to the students, which translated into how serious they were about their studies.  As for the honor students where they got cheers, maybe their family/supporters thought they were above the rules or something since they got all these honors and awards, and they justified being able to cheer because they were that much better.  Maybe there were just lots of other lurking variables....

 

Well, come to find out when we talked to B's sister, nearly all the non-honor kids were the "Three to Sixers" (the kids that went to school after hours because of problems).

 

Anyway, it was just kinda funny.  And there ya go, statistics in everyday life.

:)

Locked

AHHH! I locked my desk drawer last night and left the key at home today (and my wallet too....oops).  Dang it!  I need some snacks!  I have my stash of chocolate graham crackers, chocolate covered pretzels, yogurt covered pretzels, tuna, fruit cups, crackers and peanut M&Ms!!!

 

M&M's sound so good right now.....

Oh well, til tomorrow.

Life

Last Saturday I went to a funeral (only the second one I've been to in my life).  My parents knew her but I didn't really know her, only her son and his family, so we went to support them.  I hadn't seen our friends for probably 5-6 years although we keep in touch through email every now and then.  It was an interesting experience to me to stand next to the coffin and see this sweet woman's body.  It was fascinating to me how she looked like she was just asleep.  As I stood there looking at her and observing the people around me as they talked, I felt a distinct peace come over me.  It was kind of wierd I guess, seeing as I didn't know her, but then again, thinking to the basic principles of how we are children of God and that He has a beautiful plan for each of us and each of our individual lives made me feel really happy!

 

After the viewing we gathered in a chapel where some family members performed a couple of musical numbers and then an invitation was made for those who wanted to share a memory about her could get up and do so.  From what everyone said, I could tell this woman had many talents, and much love and wisdom to go around.  It was lovely.  My favorite was this thin, delicate, elderly woman who had worked in a quilting and craft store with her.  She gently walked to the pulpit with her walker to keep hear steady and shared beautiful memories.  She spoke so highly of her dear friend and of her example and how much she had changed her life.  It got me thinking some things about life...I don't mean to sound morbid, haha, but I hope that when I die, I'll have at least one friend come to my funeral and share that I was important to them in some way.  Sometimes it seems like life gets so crazy-busy that we don't even have time to let people know we are thinking of them.  I try to contact my friends when I think of them and just let them know...Life is getting busier and busier though. 

 

These last few days, among the wedding plans, I've been planning a family get-together so my future in-laws can meet my siblings.  I have three siblings and they each have their lives and families to attend to, so it's a bit of a challenge to find a day and time that works for everybody (I can't imagine having like 7 siblings or something....ah!!).  Anyway, it's just interesting how sometimes we are so busy living that we can easily get distracted on the things and people who matter most.  I don't want to end up going to a funeral and having regrets about not calling them or something when I had the chance!

 

Anyway, sorry if that made no sense!

Trying to be crafty

A few months ago I bought a Cricut machine. I used it a couple times and then got busy with other things. Last night I whipped it out again and here's my attempt at some card-making. I need to find some patterns or something so I can fold them better. Haha. If you have any suggestions, please share!

back

Opens up and there is a pocket to insert another little card.

Another card

Please follow directions.

Why is it that no matter how carefully and thoroughly you try to explain something in written form and people still manage to do it wrong?!?!

WHY?!?!

K, this is what happened:
I created a form on Google Documents (quite nifty I must say!) and the cool thing is that when people type stuff in the form, it goes directly onto a spreadsheet which the creator can then download in various formats and it makes things MUCH easier to organize (like compiling a wedding guest list for instance). 

So.  I made my form and emailed the direct link out to people.  Piece of cake.  Many replied and had no problem with my little form.  I still had a bunch more people I wanted to send it to but didn't have their emails so I turned to Facebook.  The tricky part is that FB only lets you sent out a message to 20 people at a time.  GAH!  I had to copy and paste the info into multiple FB messages.  Well, ok.  That took a little more effort but still, not hard at all.  I attached the link to the message so all they had to do was click the text and go to the form, fill it out and done!


I start getting a few replies to the message (which A, defeats the ENTIRE purpose of the form, because that means now I have to go retype the info myself, B, they neglect to answer other critical questions, and C, I carefully explained to go to the form and the reasons why).  ARGG!  I find it funny, but honestly it bugs the crap outta me when people don't read AND follow directions.  It seriously is NOT that hard people!  Makes me wonder how they'd do on tests!  (Good thing it wasn't one, eh?  I mean, what if I were to only invite those who actually did it right?)  Some claimed they couldn't see the link or mentioned other "technical" problems.  (I secretly think it's more of a "user" problem).

Anyway.  Lesson learned:  People aren't gonna follow directions no matter how hard you try to help them.

Thrift Therapy

I went to two D.I.s today and beelined it for the book section.  I had a specific title in mind, and figured it would be a cinch to find since last time I came across at least four copies!  I looked through several shelves of books searching for this book but alas, nothing. 

 

I certainly didn't walk out empty-handed though! 

 

I got a few children's classics for my collection for 50 cents each!

 

 

A nice coffee table art book for a steal of $4

 

(image here)

 

Mosby medical dictionary (um, these normally retail upwards of $100 and more) for $4!!!!!  What a steal!

(Books to me are like shoes to my sister! haha)

 

Bird bath

Ok, I'm backtracking a little because I want to share something about yesterday (and I just barely posted something about today!) and this is kinda randome, but anyway, my friend wrote about about how they wanted to fire up the grill and when they opened it up found a huge bird's nest inside!  haha.  My sister has posted a couple of times about the birds in her yard and how her little girl loves watching them out the window.  It just got me thinking about birds I guess, and how fun they are to watch.  I mean, think of going to feed the ducks at the park.  Isn't that such a simple, happy activity?  I think it was the Disney Earth movie that my other sister was watching with her boys once that showed a bird family, and my sister was making dialogue for this really funny looking bird and it was hysterical! 

 

Well, yesterday was a gorgeous spring day.  I love spring sooooo much!  I love the blossoms in the trees and the tulips everywhere and the green!  The weather was perfect; warm in the sunshine, cool in the shade, with a soft breeze.  B and I decided to go for a walk.  Sunday walks are so nice!  At the beginning of our walk we sat on a bench by a fountain at a hotel and watched a cute little bird flapping around in the water.  I wish I'd had my camera.  A couple minutes after playing in the water, the bird flew away.  Another bird (or perhaps the same one) came a few seconds later, flapped its wings around, shook its little tail feather and flew away.  What a beautiful world God has created for us!

Everything's gonna be alright

I suppose I'm pretty much made of glass when it comes to expressing my emotions.  Sometimes I envy those who are going through a rough time and you can't even tell.  Then again, I'm also somewhat proud of the fact that I don't try to hide what I'm feeling.  I can be honest about how I feel, and I'm ok with openly showing that I am weak, as much as it frustrates me.  Hopefully I'm not overly dramatic...well, usually!

 

A couple of days ago I received some unpleasant news.  What upsets me most is that I had the power to change the outcome and now I feel very much like a failure.  It was a stressful week but it was pretty much my own fault.  I hate when I do that and when I am slow to learn such a simple lesson.  I suppose I did what I could, but maybe I could've done more too and that realization has been eating away at me the entire week.  Sure, maybe I'm being too hard on myself but then I also tend to think I haven't been hard enough.

 

It is times like these when I am grateful for the caring people I have all around me.  My family, particularly my sisters who are my best friends (that continuously support me, offer their wisdom, make time to check up on me and make me feel loved), and a handful of close friends that I can turn to anytime. Each day I am more and more amazed by my fiance's keen sixth sense of knowing when I am stressed out or upset about something.  He doesn't hesitate to put his arm around me and ask if I'm ok, patiently listens while I explain what's bugging me, and then reminds me that my mistakes do not interfere with my worth and value as an individual.  I feel grateful for knowing I am a daughter of a loving and perfect God who's always there for me.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is what holds me together.  When the pressures of mortality beat up on me and when an unforgiving world turns its back, I have many many wonderful people around me who will remind me that "Everything will be okay.  It will work out."

 

I am also grateful for the little elf that left one of my favorite chocolate bars on my keyboard at work today (Dove dark). Thank you thank you! :)

ANGRY.

@*&#&<:#$&%#*!!!!!!

 

I. Am. SO. ANGRY.

 

Ahem.  Hi.  Pardon my french. I am typically a fairly patient, temperate person.  Few and far between are the moments in which I experience the intense rage that is boiling inside me at this very instant.

 

I just got out of the Social Security Office.  Last year I filled out the Federal Application for Financial Student Aid (aka FAFSA).  I had never before had a problem and for some reason the University was unable to process it and I was told I had to go update my records with them first, and then take a copy of my documentation to the University.  I never had time (or when I did have time, SSA wasn't open.....of course.  Leave it up to government entities to make things as complicated and inconvenient as possible). 

 

Anyway, I went today with my original SS card plus a copy of the document they needed. II stopped in on my way to work and figured it couldn't possibly take that long.  Boy, was I wrong!  As I sat there among annoying ring tones and smelly people (harsh, I know, but you know it's true!).  I walked in and got my number and waited...and waited.  And waited.  The minutes ticked on. Fifteen minutes, half an hour, an hour, an hour and a half (why does it always take so freaking long?!?!  GRRR!)  FINALLY, my number gets called and I approach the man at the window (wearing a tie that was quite possibly the UGLIEST I've ever set my eyes upon, ever in my life (with polyester hair scrunchies just below the knot...???) I explain what I'm there for and show him my documents. 

 

"Do you have the original" he asked

"Yes I do, but not with me" I replied

Then he said they had to see the original in order to do anything.

ARE--YOU--KIDDING--ME?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!  A voice screamed inside my head. 

I said, "Well it's the exact same thing just in color!"

"We need the original" Ugly tie man said.

"So you're saying I just waited an hour and a half for nothing."  I spit out.

"I'm saying you waited an hour and a half to find out what you need." Ugly tie man replied calmly with his undoubtedly pre-fabricated answer.

 

GRRRRR!!!

 

He handed me a pink slip and told me to come back today or tomorrow before 4, take a number, but that I wouldn't have to wait (yeah right, and how does that work when there is not a human being to interact with between getting the number and sitting there until they call my stupid number?).

 

{{Heavy sigh}}

 

Some things

Me Then. . . . .

Me now. . . . .

Some things never change.

hahaha.  (just kidding)

Things in common

It's funny how my spouse-to-be and I keep finding these random things we have in common.

Besides the some of the obvious (and some obvious once you talk to us) things like we both speak Spanish, served missions for our Church, have brown eyes and hair (we've been told we look like we're related) and we are so dang good looking, attend the same school, have the same humor, have way fun families and are stinkin' awesome......he has been particularly impressed/surprised/excited learning that I like:

 

* Blue cheese (yeah, I know it's stinky but it's sooo good!  And one time, at Denny's we ordered hot wings with blue cheese dip and it wasn't a measly bowl of dip.  It was quite yummy and had big chunks of cheese in it! mmmmm)

 

* Hot wings (I can't eat too many but I like them.  Especially if they are boneless.)

 

*  Dark chocolate (Some think it tastes gross or burnt but I like it.  I guess I have a more sophisticated palate than most. kidding.)

 

Oh, and we both like food a lot (notice those are all food related....hahahaha)

 

 

Get to the point already!

Sometimes I take a long time to tell stories. 

Sometimes this frustrates people.

 

I lose my train of thought in the middle of the conversation.  I get easily distracted and maybe I even get bored listening to myself talk that I zone out a little.

Sometimes this makes the listener feel impatient.

 

Oftentimes I like to include lots of details and background.  I'm very detail oriented ok?  Even if it seems like it has nothing to do with what we're talking about, or if the listener would rather I just get to the point, I promise it will all fit together, eventually.

 

To those who wish I'd just get to the point, I'm sorry.

To those who patiently listen and get me back on track when I go off on a tangent, thank you.

 

And, I will try to get to the point a little faster.

 

 

Who me?!

The other night I was driving home from my fiance's and I went a different way than usual. 

It was late at night and there were hardly ANY cars around. I turned right and made a really wide turn (mostly aiming for the middle lane but gradually coasted into the far left....WITHOUT signaling (*gasp!*). Obviously, I would've signaled had there been cars around. I stoped at the stoplight and looking in my rearview mirror saw a cop in the car right behind me. The light turned green and the cop turned on his lights.

"What?! Is he pulling ME over?!" I thought, shock, horror, terror, and panic pulsing through my veins, as I mentally review why I could be getting pulled over. "Maybe my light is out?....I definitely wasn't speeding....I didn't really signal when I turned....It was a last second decision but there were no cars so I didn't put anyone at risk...AHHHH!"

I pulled over, mortified (I have NEVER been pulled over by a cop before-- except that time when we were speeding, only didn't realize it on our road trip back from Arizona--well, I wasn't the driver though), and rolled down my window, driver license ready to hand over to the officer.

He approached my car, asked if I knew why he'd pulled me over (no idea! Actually, I was really tired and admit I sorta blanked out and drove on auto pilot for a second, but I didn't tell him that!). The officer explained that I had turned wide, to the far left lane. He asked if I'd been drinking, if that was my current address on my license and if I was just headed home. He didn't state he was giving me a warning or anything, just said to be careful and sent me on my way. Phew.

And that is my latest run-in with the law...

Lesson learned: Watch out for those bored cops downtown late at night.

 

(Actually, the thought crossed my mind that perhaps it was Divine intervention.  Who knows?  Maybe if I hadn't been pulled over---I mean, that was a really dumb reason---I would've been in a crash or something.  Whether it was or wasn't, I know Someone is always watching out for us.)

Superman

I sit by the copy machine at work and these are my FAQs:

1) Do you know how to send a fax?

2) Is this thing broken?

3) Can I borrow your stapler for a second?

4) Do you have a pen I could borrow?

Today a girl came up to me and was asking question #4.

"Hi, could I borrow a . . . . . . . . . {very long pause} . . . . . . pen?"

I handed over my one spare pen (which I no longer have now as it walked away with this girl who borrowed it) and she thanked me and turned around to make her copies. Hmm....perhaps I ought to bring some of those random pens I have at home for this very reason? duh.) I showed her a photo and she said: "Oh he's cute! He looks like the new Superman guy, so you're marrying Superman"

A few seconds later she said: "I see something on your finger...That's why I blanked out!"

So I explained how I got engaged a couple weeks ago and she asked "Are you excited?" (nah!!!! not really.

"Yes, he's pretty super!" was my reply.

That's right folks! I'm marrying Superman! :)

I haven't seen the Superman movie and I'm pretty sure B told me people have said that to him beofre, so I figured I'd look him up to see what kind of resemblance there is exactly. I think they're talking about the actor Brandon Routh. Yeah... I suppose I can see it, he's not bad lookin'! Now, I may be slightly biased but my Superman is at least a bajillion times better (in every way) than this Hollywood guy. Then again, I don't really know the Hollywood dude at all so technically it might not be a fair call. Anyway, I love my Superman! hehe

too--many--passwords

Either my memory is getting worse and worse or I need to consolidate my passwords.  Too bad consolidating isn't usually an option since sometimes password requirements vary.  For instance, some sites aren't very strict while others require a minumum of 8 characters, a symbol, a number (and you're not allowed to use certain symbols). 

These days I find myself clicking the "forgot my username" or "forgot my password" (ok, sometimes "forgot both") buttons on websites.  While I am grateful for the use of passwords and I certainly understand the reasoning behind it....I am just getting annoyed that I can't seem to remember them.  Like one of my health resources......I changed my login info recently because I hadn't logged in for quite awhile and now I'm blank.  Arg.

{Giggles: Blonde Password}

 During a recent password audit, the IT specialist for the company found that a blonde secretary was using the following password:

         MickeyMinniePlutoHueyLouieDeweyDonaldGoofy

When asked why she was using such a long password, she replied....                                     

"Duh, you're the one that said it had to be at least 8 characters long!!!"

Sigh

What a lovely day.  Finally!  I can go outside in a short sleeved shirt and not need a jacket!  Oh if only I wasn't stuck in this dungeon (without windows) at work.  I want to go play outside....ride my bike, go for a walk, feed the duckies.  I love you spring! Please stay forever!

Voiceover

A few days ago my boyfr---I mean fiance (!!!!!!) B asked me to help with with an assignment for his writing class, so last night I went over to work on it.  The project consists of a game featuring a choose-your-own adventure storyline that he created.  He wanted to record my voice reading the introduction part of the game.  I recorded the intro in my normal voice and then again in a "British" accent.  Pleased with the results he showered me with comliments and kept saying to his roommates, "She has such a good narrator voice huh!" His roommate said, "Yeah! You should go into voice acting!" Hmmmm....

 

Funny thing is, it's not the first time I've been complimented on my voice.  People claim it's soft, soothing and pleasant to listen to.  Ok, I'll take that!  I can't remember what I was reading aloud to my friend on a roadtrip once and she emphatically said I ought to consider record audio books. I don't understand it sometimes because I don't think it's all that great!  Actually, back when I used to call people on the phone (haha, now I'm often too lazy to call so I'll just send a text instead), I would record and then RE-record (no less than ten times) the message because I thought I sounded to nasally or I mumbled or I sounded too monotone or overly enthusiastic.....

 

Honestly, voice acting sounds really fun to me!  I often break out in different accents in normal conversation too.  Oh and there was that one time that B and I went on a group date with his roomies.  The other two couples were blind dates and we decided to pretend to be on a blind date too and made up this whole story about how I was from Russia and I was now a nanny but had previously been a nude model for art classes....The story was a bit crazy so to make it slightly more believeable I had to talk with a Russian accent--well, my version of it.  In reality it probably wan't authentic but I succeeded in sounding foreign nonetheless.  It was really fun!  The guys knew and had struggled to keep a straight face, and the girls fell for it (we told them after dinner). 

 

Anyway, back to the voice acting, I like talking in different accents and reading stories to kids using a variety of voices for the characters.  Maybe that's a talent worth developing!  I think I'll start looking into it. 

 

Thoughts?

Cake Wrecks

A couple birthdays ago I was given a cake decorating caddy. At the time I was craving to start a new hobby/develop a talent and seeing my sister's and sister-in-law's, mad skills at cake decorating, I wanted to join the ranks.  I wanted to take a cake decorating class and thus.....I was pampered with a box full of cake decorating essentials.  While I have yet to take that class.....My sister showed me this blog which always cracks me up.

 

Cake Wrecks

cakewrecks.blogspot.com

 

Some of these are so funny and others leave me scratching my head at some pretty creative spelling....

 

Check it out for a good laugh! (And maybe even some inspiration for cakes of your own creation)

Snow or Blossoms?

Answer: Blossoms

Oh spring.....when will you be a permanent guest and not fleeting visitor?

Saturday: Part II

Ok, part two.....ready?
I will now proceed to explain how on this particular Saturday I started the day as a single woman and ended it with this on my left hand:

He was planning on proposing after finals were over in May but decided a few days ago he didn't want to wait.  He went to the jewelers on Friday and asked, "Uh....could you have this ready by tomorrow?"  They were great and even rush ordered it at no additional charge :)

 He picked me up Saturday evening with his cousin and other roommate and said we were going to go out to dinner but it was a surprise, so he blindfolded me.  Supposedly we needed to pick up their dates too. We drove for about an hour (well, I didn't even realize it at the time) and by the time we arrived at "the restaurant" I needed to use the bathroom (remember all that water I chugged after the gym.?  Yes.). He took my hand and lead me to a restroom.  I began wondering why it smelled like farm.....Hmm.  It seemed to take FOREVER to get there (I wasn't allowed to take off the blindfold until we were inside the bathroom), since I had NO idea what my surroundings included I was walking kinda slow.  He told me there was absolutely NO chance that I'd run into anything so I picked up the pace.  When I finished we walked back and I wondered where the other girls were.....

They helped me climb up onto something and it didn't take long to realize it was an airplane!  STILL blindfolded, they helped me sit and buckled me in.  He took off my blindfold once we were in the air and what a sight!  It was a smalle four-seater airplane and his roommate was pilot and cousin co-pilot, and we sat in the back.  It was really neat to see all the city lights.  We flew  for awhile passing a couple of temples and then circled just above the temple that we planned on getting married in.  At that point he smiled and said, "I have something for you!" and handed me a small gift box.  I opened it and he pulled out the ring box that was inside.  He said he would get down on one knee if he could....and then asked me to marry him! (of course I said YES!!). 

Funny enough, I had the feeling that's what would be happening as soon as he picked me up!

Welp.  That's the proposal story.

Isn't that so cool?!?!

I loved it.

I love HIM.

He is amazingly wonderful.

He has good taste. After all, he picked me..hehe...AND a gorgeous ring! :)

Dating him has been pure awesomeness and being engaged is pretty cool too!

We're getting married August 7th!!!!!!!!!!!  SO excited!

Saturday: Part I

Last Saturday was a really fantastic day!
This is part one.  Part two deserves its very own post, you shall see.....

I slept in and woke up around 9:45 am did my Saturday things (cleaning my room, laundry, etc) meanwhile trying to decide what to do with the rest of my day.  I wanted to go dress shopping (for a..... special occassion) but also really wanted to go waxing.  I called Waxing Gurus and left a message hoping I could get in that day because after letting my leg hair grow out for over a month, IT..WAS... TIME!  I decided I wanted to try a bikini wax too and of course do my underarms again.  I love waxing so much better than shaving (although it gets expensive and it's not exactly the most relaxing thing ever to get your hair ripped off).

While I waited for a call back I talked to my sister and then called my boyfriend and we decided to go to the gym right then in case they called me back to go wax.....Shortly after we hung up with him they called back from Waxing Gurus and Denise asked me how soon I could be there.  Sweet!  She worked me in for early afternoon and so I set off to the gym.  Now, I will admit going to the gym isn't my favorite thing......yet.  I'm workin' on it (probably a good idea since I'm majoring in health promotion, right?)  I can say though, that I really LOVE the feeling afterward.  Despite the realization that I'll be a little sore the next day, in exchange for the energy boost, endorphins...totally worth it.  Also the hope that if I keep going at it I will one day NOT feel self conscious about how ridiculous I look trying to do crunches (heck, maybe I'll actually be able to do them properly even!)  Right now I'm pretty weak sauce, but I want to change that.

After the gym I chugged some water, ate some yogurt and strawberries and showered.  Then I headed to my waxing appointment.  I got a full leg and bikini wax, plus my underarms.  So, bikini wax...yeah.  Ahem.  I was handed a pair of disposable panties (which was basically a made-in-china flimsy imitation of a bikini bottom (which I DO NOT wear, so that was a new experience! haha).  Right.  Well I put it on and was trying to not think about it.....I was mostly ok until I had to turn over to get the back of my legs done.  Picturing my exposed gluteous maximus in that tiny tissue bikini thing I couldn't help but giggle...in embarrassment.  Sure, for her it's her job and it's just like a piece of meat for a butcher....but....anyway.  I survived.  The underarms didn't even hurt this time and I was so pleased....I LOVE the silky smooth feel!  Yes, I think I might be addicted to waxing. 

{Music: Owl City}

The stars lean down and kiss you
And I lie awake and miss you
Pour me a heavy dose of atmosphere

                                                -Vanilla Twilight, Owl City


You may have heard of the Pop/Electronica group Owl City on the radio.  Their song "Fireflies" is pretty popular, and most recently "Vanilla Twilight"

I *love* their song "Hello Seattle" (remix version).  I could listen to it over and over.   It makes me happy.
Go here to listen.

i love green m&m's

Green is my favorite color.
I like Peanut M&M's. 
A combination of these two is most excellent.

Imagine my delight when I opened up a package of peanut M&M's last week and discovered lots of green ones!  That is not common you know.....It was my lucky day or something.

First Aid Lab

BSI!
Is it safe?
One patient
MOI/NOI.....

And that's only the beginning of the loooooong list of things I need to remember to do for our patient assessments in lab.  I always get frazzled and forget stuff but deep down I get the gist of things....I think?

Anyway, we had an odd number in our lab so I observed the others and since I had my camera that day, I decided to take some photos.  That day was pretty funny because we got to use these plastic things that look like wounds. I guess they will use those during our final practical and even shoot fake blood through a little tube. haha!

laceration

{Music: Jarrett Burns}

Jarret Burns

One of my friends posted a link to this guy's music on facebook and I decided to check it out. 

His music is catchy! I really like it.

Also, Reverbnation is a good site to find out about up and coming new and local artists and there is a music player too.  Fun fun! 

So give it a whirl when you're ready to take a break from mainstream radio.

Ok....fine.

Thanks to some loving intervention, I'll keep the blog around. 
Plus....I rather enjoy blogging.
So thanks y'all!

PS

I really am better off with out this blog stuff.  I think it just fuels drama in my mind and I can definitely go without drama.  

 

It is a somewhat harsh reality too when a friend reveals more on his or her blog than they care to divulge when you actually see or talk to them.  That really kinda bugs me.  Kinda wierd....

 

One more reason that I forgot to add is that my blog really served no purpose, other than just being an outlet for random fluff in my brain that was dorky yet somewhat amusing at times....hopefully?  I don't have cute crafty skills to show off, travels to report or any particularly earth shattering discoveries to inspect.

 

The end.

Blogicide

Dear readers, fans and blalkers (blog+stalkers)---if it just so happens I'm fortunate enough to have any of these---

 

In order to justify the following words which will probably sound extremely pessimistic, I shall call this my blog suicide letter.  It's been awhile, I know.  Have my posts been missed? Meh....I have no idea.  Perhaps in the future sometime I will return to the blogging world, but for now, goodbye.

 

Why, you ask?

 

1) OK SERIOUSLY, DOES ANYONE ACTUALLY READ THIS?

I would be surprised to hear a 'Yes' to that.  (Well, except for the lovely people who stopped me once as I walked out of Costco and told me they enjoyed my blog! Hi friends!).  

 

Sometimes I'll check my Google Reader and get this silly wave of excitement when I see that my favorite blogs have new posts.  Ah yes, the simple things in life.  Even a few people I don't know very well in person, I feel a connection to in a wierd crazy way.  Isn't that funny?  I feel inspired by not only the things they are doing in their lives but also the viewpoint in which they express their journey through mortality.  It opens up my mind to how I view the world around me and it's fun!  Does my blog have that same effect on people?  I guess I'll never know. 

 

2)  I HAVE A TERRIBLE HABIT OF COMPARING MYSELF TO OTHERS SOMETIMES

and blogging only seems to emphasize some of the weaknesses I perceive to have.  Namely, I don't think of myself as being a good writer.  I suppose I'm not necessarily a bad one either, but perhaps, I just don't feel like my writing ever makes much of an impact.  Most times I will write whatever is on my mind, and I just wonder, "Who would even care?!".  I think this line of thinking, while very pathetic, and often dangerous has been my underlying attitude toward my writing since I can remember.  Every now and then I'd get a compliment or two which was uplifting, but then I'd always end up wishing I could express my thoughts and feelings better like so-and-so; That I could paint a beautiful masterpiece merely through words. Not that I have to sound super brainy or something, it just has to be interesting and enjoyable.  Of course, as with anything, this takes lots of practice...but still, I just feel like....I don't know.

 

3)  I HAVE NO IDEA WHO MY AUDIENCE IS (if I even have one that is)

I guess sometimes that's the fun of blogging though, but I don't feel like I really have any connection with anyone, and if anyone has felt a connection to me through the blogging portal then I'd sure love to know.  Not having an audience also makes it difficult for me to decide on what to write about.....so, I usually just end up posting a bunch of nonsense, or some overly emotional crap.

 

4)  PUBLIC vs PRIVATE

I am constantly yo-yo'ing between if I want to have my blog be public or private.  Many things I have wanted to write about, seem like they would be more appropriate to keep in my own personal journal.  You might just be grateful for that! 

 

While I thoroughly enjoy sharing my life experiences with others, I like the whole reciprocation thing.  Like actually talking to a person face to face.  I need those things....the nodding, the eye contact, the "uh-huh's"; all those human, emotional connecting points.  It kinda bums me out that our society is getting so technologically dependant that the art of conversation is rapidly floundering.  Blogging has this way of making me feel like I'm talking to a brick wall AND simultaneously opening my heart to just about anyone.  I figure, anyone who actually cares about what's going on in my life I already talk to and don't need to waste time posting stuff online.  And anyone else is capable of picking up the phone and asking me themselves.  Yes I've done it too.....I've wondered what an old friend was up to but either felt like we no longer had enough of a connection to justify a phone call completely out of the blue, or I really wouldn't have much to say, or feared they would think I was odd for calling or something.  I've done that before and it just felt so awkward, I kinda stopped and resorted to a quick look at the blog or facebook page.  No need to call.  And yes, sometimes I feel a little guilty doing that because it's downright lazy!  However, to my credit, most of the time I actually comment or initiate some sort of interaction in the process.  For example, look at photos and leave a comment.  When I don't know who's looked at/read my stuff because they don't leave comments or anything, it kinda creeps me out a little, seriously. 

 

Anyway, the point of this all is basically:

If you have enjoyed this blog, HOORAY!

If you didn't even know this blog existed, I GUESS YOU WON'T MISS MUCH HUH!

If you know me and actually care, pick up the phone and call me, email me, say hi, send me flowers....haha...BE AN ACTIVE FRIEND!!! 

If you know me and like knowing what's going on but don't really want to talk to me, then TRY HARDER or GOOD LUCK TO YA!

 

Well I think that's it.

 

Peace out yo. :)

Spring Fever!

I wore a light sweater to school today.

Blue skies.

Sunshine.

Spring is just around the corner, I'm soooo excited!

I would rather be outside right now than at work in a basement with no windows.

I keep writing 3/20 for the date....turns out that is the first day of spring.  Coincidence?  I think not!  haha.

Spring break is next week too. 

Yessssssssssssssssssssssssssss!

 

Start getting your spring fix here: http://www.procreo.jp/labo/flower_garden.swf

 

Blah

Yesterday was one of "those days".  Very blah. 

I couldn't think so my bf kindly supplied words and phrases to help me to describe how I felt. 

 

Frazzled.

Awkward on my own two feet.

Tired.

(I just noticed that the first letter of each word reading it from top to bottom spells "fat" and I felt that way too!)

 

Weekends are my favorite part of the week.  Not just because I get somewhat of a break from the everyday routine, but also I get to spend more time with certain people <wink>....and, this might sound wierd, but I like to clean.  There is something about that fresh Pine Sol scent, the gleam of a shiny sink and pulling out a warm, crisp, load from the clothes dryer.  I am one to need to see the fruits of my labor, and cleaning does that for me.  I feel like I have accomplished something.  I feel renewed.  I feel a little happier.  It is instant gratification.  I could spend hours just organizing things (oddly enough, I'm not all that organized....which is probably why I spend hours doing so, ha!).

 

Anyway.  Just because I feel like blaming the "blah" on something, I'll say it was a side effect of daylight savings.

 

Dear Daylight Savings....i despise you.

 

I'm all for the "fall back" but "spring forward" is annoying!

I enjoy being a girl...

"I enjoy being a girl"
Ok, so a week ago, I was thinking pretty much the opposite and how complicated being female can be sometimes.  I mean, take hair removal for instance.  A hairy girl isn't considered socially acceptable (generally).  I feel confident saying this because I have personal experience on the matter.  Allow me to shed some light on the matter through an embarrassing experience.  Ahem. 

When I was in 7th grade, gym class was torture.  I mean, beyond the i'm-SO-not-coordinated-slash-athletic-at-all-and always-the-last-to-get-picked-on-teams kind of awkward awfulness.  One big reason why I hated gym class was because my mom wouldn't "let me" shave my hairy legs.  Maybe she just didn't want to admit to herself that her little girl was growing up....I honestly don't know, but to this day I wonder how I somehow managed to endure junior high and maintain some dignity by the end of it.  Having hairy legs was quite embarrassing.  I suppose I was lucky that no one actually ever said anything to my face, but I guarantee those boys and girls in my class noticed.  I withdrew myself from groups whenever possible, counting down the minutes until the bell saved me from the humiliation and I could pull my jeans back on to conceal the faux pas.

One day I couldn't take it anymore and found one of my dad's razor blades and went nuts.  It was just the blade, no handle, so it was rather tricky, and silly me I did it dry..so yeah, I ended up with a pretty deep, messy cut on my leg.  Perhaps that was the true reason why my mom wouldn't let me...because it was dangerous....?  Eventually my mom and I had a little chat and she suggested using a depilatory.  So I hopped off to the store and got me some Nair!  (Nair wears short shorts!)  That worked a few times and then my skin broke out in an itchy rash.  (Which I was kind of grateful for because the Nair was messy and stinky!)

Eventually I learned to shave properly, and a few times did some waxing.  The point is, that for a girl to be hairy is eye-brow raising sometimes and maybe even a little "gross".  For guys however, not such a big deal.  Ok, there are sometimes EXTREME situations where the guy is overly hairy, but for the most part, they don't have to worry about shaving if they're gonna get in a swimsuit! 

Another thing that is sometimes frustrating about being a girl is the whole "monthly".  Surely I can spare details here.  ;)

Well, today at church I went to make an announcement in the Elder's Quorum and I walked out feeling grateful to be of the female species.  Curious, I know, but it was just one of those funny little inspiring moments.

First of all, it was me in a room full of men so they were nearly all in dark pants and white shirts.  There was some variety in their ties, but from my vantage point in the back row, this was not obvious to me.  I thought "Wow, we have WAY more interesting outfits".  I also noticed this went I went clothes and shoe shopping with my bf.  Us girls have much more variety (which can also be a bad thing because there's SO MUCH that it can be overwhelming!)  but we can get away with ruffles, lace, and a greater variety of colors and fabrics, which is pretty sweet!

Then, the overall feeling was different.  Not in a bad way, but I just felt like it wasn't as friendly of an environment.

I was eager to get back to Relief Society where there were lots of cute outfits, friendly faces and warm feeling.  Being fast and testimony meeting, it was nice to hear testimonies and be uplifted and buoyed spirirtually. I love Sundays!

Well that's mostly it.  Of course I appreciate both genders and we each have our unique qualities and roles that make life interesting and fulfilling when we get together, but I really enjoy being a girl.

That's all. :)

Sneezing

Today I was driving on the freeway and had to sneeze.

Sneezing is like...the most scary thing EVER when you're driving!!! 

I HAD to close my eyes (because I'm pretty sure it's impossible to release a sneeze without  doing so) and I HAD to sneeze otherwise maybe I'd explode. 

Another note about sneezing.  Why is it that if someone distracts you then suddenly you can't anymore...it's lost...gone....forever!  And isn't that frustrating?!  Grrrr. However, if that ever happens all you need to do is squint and look at the sun or a really bright light and it'll magically come back into the brain queue: release sneeze.

 

The word for sneeze in Spanish is estornudo (spelling?).  Isn't that an odd word?  If you didn't know Spanish would you even know what that was?  It'd be pretty tricky to guess.  Sometimes you can kind of figure out what a word is because it looks like English, but in cases like these, you just have to know someone who can tell you what it is (or find a dictionary or ask Google).

 

Oh my goodness, funny discovery!!!  The other day I believe I was looking up something on Google (can't remember what it was though) and I typed Why do I and then a bunch of options popped up and it was sooooo funny/wierd/kinda freaky.  Go ahead and try it and you'll see what I mean!

 

Well, I think I ate too much sugar again today.  This was a pretty stream of consciousness post.  Sometimes that's just how my mind works.  You may have lost a brain cell or two reading this.  Go do a Sudoku puzzle or something before it's too late!!!!

Yesterday I was having a wierd day.  I'm still not sure what was going on but I was really stressed out and emotional and just...yeah.  Kinda crazy.  I think I consumed way too much sugar too.  Maybe that's why I had that icky i'm-not-hungry-but-my-stomach-feels-empty thing going on.  Anyway, as I settled to go to bed, I grabbed my tape recorder from my dresser and popped in a tape I made with one of my favorite mission companions.  Seeing as it was quite late (or early depending on how you look at it...) I was trying relax and let the crappy day melt away into a faded memory. 

 

This tape is so random!  I was laughing from start to finish!  Not a chuckle either, but a hearty, abdominal-workout kind of laugh (which I had to stifle so as not to wake my parents! heeh) It starts out with Elder Dang making up silly songs about forgetting to bring his pen for zone conference as we're headed there, and then a song he made up on the fly about sister missionaries.  The next chunk is mostly Sego and making up our own crazy songs about the humidity, black socks (that never get dirty and the longer you wear them the blacker they get!), and a Billy Joel song we made up our own lyrics to as a Thank-You-Gram dedicated to our mission president.  Also featured on this cassette is a behind-the-scenes audio interview on what its like to be an Hermana.  We recorded that while we waited for the phone call to find out about our transfers.  Quite funny. 

 

Probably my most favorite part is where we talked about some of the crazy people we met, some of the amazing people who's lives we got to be a part of for a brief time but will never forget, AND stories of really funny experiences we had like when bike pedals fell off our ghetto bikes in the middle of the road, or the multiple times we peed ourselves from laughing so much!  Sego just has this amazing story-telling ability, full of emotion and drama.  As she's talking I'm giggling hysterically in the background just about the whole time. 

 

Don't you wish you could listen to this?? hehe

 

Indeed, it is one of my treasured keepsakes.  I really wish I would've carried that recorder with me more often and recorded more stuff, but it brings to life some memories that will live on forever!!!

How do you--How do you SQUEEZE? *

* Title inspired by the Jesse McCartney song "How do you sleep"

 

This morning as I was squeezing the toothpaste onto my toothbrush I was contemplating on  how you'll sometimes hear about couples arguing about how the toothpaste is squeezed out of the tube.  I wondered: Do people really argue about such a trivial matter?  I mean, REALLY?!?!?!  Any of your married folk, feel free to share your thoughts...perhaps I am blind to something.  I simply think it's ridiculous (just about as ridiculous as me thinking about it and writing about it, hehe!).  I think we need to focus on the fact that if the toothpaste low, be grateful your spouse is brushing their teeth!  (Who wants their sweetie pie to have rotten teeth or smelly breath? EW.) 

 

Honestly, who even cares?  Who even pays attention for crying out loud?  Not me!  I just want to brush my teeth and move on with life!  If that means squeezing from the top, bottom, middle, folding up from the bottom, flattening it w/ my toothbrush or stabbing it with a fork (kidding) then what difference does it make? 

 

Another thing. 

How the toilet paper hangs from the roll.  Over or under? I personally prefer under...but as long as there is toilet paper period (or at least an easily accessible spare) I'm happy.

 

The end.