Daily Notions

Updates

2010-05-16T13:10:00.002-06:00

I've noticed lately that a lot of people still have my old blog listed on their blog rolls. I just want to make sure that y'all know that I don't write on this blog anymore and you can take it off your blog rolls and put in my new blog/website: The Stepford Child - www.thestepfordchild.com

If you want to add my new blog to your Google Readers or Blog Rolls so that it tells you when I post a new post, you can type in this: http://thestepfordchild.com/feed/

In a few months, I'm going to completely delete this blog. I have everything transferred over to my new website, and don't really need to keep this one.

On With the New

2009-10-20T08:40:00.001-06:00

If you would like to read my current blog, please go to: www.TheStepfordChild.com

Everything has been transfered over to that website.

Thanks!

Launch of the New Website/Blog

2009-10-08T20:42:00.003-06:00

Okay - I think my website is finally ready. On Monday, October 12th I will make my first new post. (But don't worry, all my posts from this blog have been converted over.)

To encourage people to switch over to the new site, I am going to be doing a prize giveaway. For each comment you make on my blog posts (the new ones), your name will be entered into the drawing. The drawing will go until Sunday, October 18th.

The prize: a $25 gift card to iTunes. Yea!

The new website: http://www.thestepfordchild.com

Here are some pics from the new site:

The Header. This is a picture of the neighborhood I grew up in. And the right holds pictures that I have taken as I have traveled.

You can add me to your google reader by clicking on the "RSS" shown above.

You can also follow me on Twitter. I don't tweet much, but I might tweet more as I get better at it.

Here is brief explanation of why I chose "The Stepford Child." For a full explanation you can click on "About the Stepford Child."

I hope to see y'all there on Monday morning! Don't forget to make comments!

. . . Is a Geek!

2009-09-25T15:53:00.003-06:00

Yeah, I'm THAT girl who . . . is a geek! And I'm proud of it!

So, what was the most exciting thing about your day? You would think my answers might be:

It's Friday - nuf said.
No spit wads thrown in class today.
My students typed on the computer and so I didn't really have to plan much for today.
Exciting weekend plans.

No, none of the above. The best thing about today was that I bought a domain name, server space, downloaded wordpress, and I am building my own web page. Yes! I get to learn a new coding language! I know - geeky. But I love computers and technology. I'm excited to be able to design a web page just the way I want it.

Now, don't get me wrong, I do love blogger. I love the freedom it has given me to put my voice out there on the www. (By the way, this week I had more hits on my blog from people outside of the US, than people inside the US - way cool!) But, I'm excited to do what I want and combine some of the blogs I write on.

I won't tell you the web address of my new website because I don't want you peeking at it before it is ready. I'll announce the launch of the website when I get it all done. Hopefully I will have it up by October!

. . . Uses Math in her everyday life

2009-09-05T22:34:00.003-06:00

Yeah, I'm THAT girl who . . . uses math in her everyday life.

I have recently become addicted to the facebook game Farmville. You buy, grow, and harvest crops. This is a chart I made for the crops I can buy and I have compared the crops figuring out which crop is the most profitable for the time period I want to grow them in, figuring in the cost to plough the land and the cost of the crop.

I know you are probably laughing, but hey, once I put the math to work and figured out the best value, I made over $100,000 in just 2 days. But then I went and bought more land and some other things. But I still have $50,000.

I'm thinking I could make a good farmer in real life if it wasn't for all that dirt I would have to actually touch and the weather messing everything up.

Things People Say - 11

2009-09-04T08:41:00.001-06:00

"If I were gay, Ian McKellen is the first man I would make out with."

~Anonymous (for obvious reasons)

I heard this at (well I won't tell you where) but I laughed and laughed and laughed. And it was said in all seriousness.

This was said after this:

"Gandalf is not gay. Ian McKellen is gay."

Following the first quote another person said:

"And he dates really attractive, younger men. I'm serious he really does."

Then:

"I don't care if he's gay. I'll go see him in any movie he is in."

And to think - I could have gone the rest of my life not knowing Ian McKellen is gay. I'll never again be able to watch Lord of the Rings without thinking about it or the fact that my friend would sleep with him.

Sorry, Couldn't Help Myself

2009-09-02T18:52:00.001-06:00

I might go for team Jacob - at least for this one movie!

(Damn - look at those muscles! Stop, Lesli, remember you are 28 years old.)

Yeah, I'm THAT girl who . . . Doesn't unpack her suitcase

2009-09-02T08:35:00.001-06:00

In a series of new types of posts, I'm going to illustrate some of my more quirky tendancies. Each post will start with, "Yeah, I'm THAT girl who . . .

Doesn't unpack her suitcase. Yup, it's true. I have been home from my trip to Washington for exactly 3 weeks. I still have yet to unpack shoes, scarves, my new photo album, some undies, and a gift. If there is anything else hiding in there, then I don't know about it. I actually never, ever unpack no matter where I go. Okay, I take that back. My mom made me unpack when I got to Washington because I was going to be there for about a month and we were going to have company come and stay for a week and so my room had to look presentable. If it wasn't for the company part, then I wouldn't have unpacked.

Organized :-(

2009-08-27T19:28:00.003-06:00

I don't usually make posts like this, but indulge me. . . . . . .

So, my school staff did boosters (which are like notes to help others feel better) for each other. So each staff member had a booster signed with messages from other staff members. When I got mine the other day, the majority of the things said were "You're so organized!" I know it is supposed to make me feel better and that people really meant that as a compliment, but I thought, "Really? Is that the best compliment you could come up with? Is that the best you know of me?" I shouldn't be upset, but I have worked there for 3 years now and that is all you know about me? It felt more like others were writing the cover letter or my resume. "I have great organizational and filing skills." Not to mention that if any of these people actually knew me at all, they would know that my room and my desk at school is always a mess. I haven't even unpacked yet from my trip to Washington (which I got home from 3 weeks ago). But, as these "boosters" proved - hardly anyone at my work actually knows who I am.

I would like to say thank you to the four people who didn't tell me I was organized.

On a side note. It is really hurtful when you think you are friends with someone and then you find out that you really aren't. I guess I've been a fool for 3 years as well as "organized."

Thank you for listening to my ranting. I'm sure I'll get over this.

So, Your Truck Wheel Well Is Bigger Than My CAR!!!

2009-08-21T17:03:00.004-06:00

I took this picture using my phone, while I was driving home yesterday. (Mom, calm down. I was only driving 75 mph, on I-15, and taking a picture with my phone. Don't tell Dad; he'll have a heart attack.)

Anyways . . . . I can't believe how big this truck was. Granted I have a small car, but seriously! I think he could have drove right over the top of me. I don't understand why a normal person needs a truck that big. Not that I don't love trucks - which I do!

(500) Days of Summer

2009-08-19T18:15:00.000-06:00

Tonight I went to see (500) Days of Summer. It is an independent movie that is sweeping the nation. What I liked most about it was that it wasn't a romantic comedy, although it did have a lot of comedy and a little romance. It wasn't what I was expecting. What I especially love is that at the end of the film, I got this overwhelming sense that everything was right in the world. That things happen for good reasons and that we should take the positive out of what live gives us. Pretty cheesy, yes. And the soundtrack is awesome. I think I will be downloading that in the near future.

64. Go to the Zoo

2009-08-06T19:43:00.003-06:00

Today my aunts, cousins, mother, and I went to the Portland Zoo. It was really fun. I didn't take very many pictures because my cousins took pictures. I've been there before, but it felt as though I was in a different zoo. However, we didn't get to see any of the big cats: lions, cheetah, etc. They are redoing that whole section and all those animals were gone :( Oh well.

Aunt Robbin, Dani, Aunt Betty, Laci, and me at the Portland Zoo entrance.

I had to take this picture! I got double mooned! Hee Hee!

72. Learn to make rolls from scratch.

2009-08-06T10:19:00.002-06:00

So, my Aunt Robbin makes the BEST rolls in the world! At every family reunion and party I hope that she brings them. My Aunt Betty is the school cook and she makes these for her students - they also request them. I tried to make them once on my own, but I failed miserably. While she is here this week she took 3 hours and taught me how make her famous rolls.

I don't like the feeling of the sticky dough. Ick!

A perfectly shaped roll.

Getting ready to bake.

All done! And don't they look mouthwatering? Trust me, they are!

Here is the recipe, if you would like to try them. It works best if you use a Bosch or a Kitchen Aid because the machine can knead the batter when it is still sticky.

Hot Rolls

2 Tbsp yeast
1/2 cup warm water

-Combine with a little sugar, let foam.

Add:
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup scalded milk
1 cup cold water (added to scalded milk)
2 eggs
1/2 cup potato flakes
3 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil
6+ cups flour (add 2 cups flour, then oil, then rest of flour to make soft dough)

Knead 10 minutes (I do mine in the Bosch). Let rise for 1 hour. Punch down, roll out and cut into circles (I use a large peach can to cut mine out with). Spread melted butter on each circle, stretch a bit and fold in half and place on greased cookie sheet. Let rise for about 15-20 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes or until done.

66. Build a Sand Castle

2009-08-05T13:26:00.003-06:00

This week while my aunts and cousins are visiting us in Washougal, WA, we went to several beaches. I thought, "This would be a great time for be to do #66." And we did. Okay, so we didn't build a "sand castle" but we did build some really cute mamma and baby turtles and crabs!

Our mamma crab and baby crabs.

Turtle.

Making baby turtles going out to sea. We had little molds that were in our buckets we bought.

My cousin Dani making the crab and the babies.

This little boy came over and destroyed our turtles and crabs right in front of us. His parents didn't do anything about it. What is wrong with some people?

New Blog Template

2009-08-01T12:27:00.003-06:00

Over the last few days, I have been working on creating new blogs for my students and updating/creating my classroom website. In my quest to have the coolest blogs for my students, I found all these free blog templates. So, I changed my blog template. What do you think?

Nye Family Reunion

2009-07-24T11:05:00.003-06:00

On Saturday, July 18th, I went to a family reunion in Almo, Idaho. Not everyone could make it, but there were quite a few of us there. We at delicious food, exchanged gifts, and listened to my Grandparents (who are 95 and 81) talk about their lives.

My mom and I holding a sign with our family name and a nice quote.

My Grandparents: Annie and Afton Nye. My grandpa is 95, grandma is 81.

This is my Uncle David. He always buys me a "real" coke when I ask him to and I asked him to on this day and he did!

This is my Uncle Andre. He may look mean, but he is just a big teaser!

These are my mom's sisters and thier daughters. Me, my mom - Shirley, Lacy, Robin, Dani, Lisa, and Betty. I think we look like our mom's, but we don't look like each other. Everyone calls Lisa, Lacy, and me (Lesli) by the each other's names when we are around each other. It used to bug me as a child, but now I find it funny.

24. Go to a Concert

2009-07-23T11:34:00.003-06:00

On Friday, July 17th Kristy and I went the George Strait concert. It was at the USANA and we sat on the grass. It was great! Julianne Hough and Black Shelton opened for George. They did great. Both of them are really strong singers. Then George Strait come on and sang. He sang for about 2 hours. It was wonderful! He is wonderful live, wonderful on CD, wonderful on the radio, and wonderful all together!

Isn't he GORGEOUS!

96. Sleep Under the Stars

2009-07-15T23:58:00.004-06:00

I realized as I was updating my 101 Goals that I finished one while I was in Lake Powell - sleep under the stars. And we even got rained on one night. Yea! Okay, so this picture isn't of me, but you can see a lovely shot of me just waking up in my previous Lake Powell post. It was actually quite fun sleeping on the roof of the houseboat.

Cleaning Out My Life and the Closet

2009-07-14T14:09:00.003-06:00

So, I can't help myself, but I am a pack-rat. I have a really hard time getting rid of things because "I might need it/use it/want it someday!" I started to clean my room and just started getting rid of things. I got rid of half my books, 2 bookcases, my VCR (haven't used it in 3 years), my VHS tapes, half my shirts, half my tank tops, half my PJ's, half my t-shirt, half my workout style pants, and half my shoes.

All in all, it was 18 bags, 2 bookcases, and 1 VCR. It doesn't look like much above but.....

Once we got it all in Mandy's SUV, I realized just how much it was. In the back are the bookcases, which I didn't even take a picture of.

I have to say that it feels good to let all this stuff go. My new philosophy is going to be to throw away something old when I buy something new. I still have shirts I don't wear hanging in my closet, but this was a big deal for me. I got rid of 48 shirts! Mandy wanted me to get down to 30, but I just couldn't do it. Give me time. My room feels empty - and that is a good feeling.

Lake Powell

2009-07-14T13:38:00.007-06:00

From June 28th to July 3rd I went to Lake Powell with my friend Christi and her family. It wasn't the first time I have been to Lake Powell, but I don't remember the first time (I was about 3 or 4) so it really felt like my first time. I loved it! We stayed on a house boat, attempted to water ski, went tubing, rode wave runners, and went to Rainbow Bridge. It was a great week and not too hot. I want to go back so badly. There's nothing like being in the water all day (but I'm a water person - I am after all a Pisces). Here are a few pictures. (They are in no particular order)

Eating some tasty food on Luau night!

On the last night we had a dance / Luau. I was so tired that I was in the bottom of the houseboat sleeping.

Gorgeous!

Micala giving me a foot rub. It was amazing!

Christi and I at Rainbow Bridge.

What is better than this? Sitting on the back of a boat, relaxing, and staring at the beautiful scenery.

Christi and I on the long boat ride to Rainbow Bridge.

Christi and I on the wave runners. This was my first time on a wave runner. I fell in love with them! No wonder people like them.

On the way to Rainbow Bridge.

Home - The Imperial Sunrise.

Shucking corn for dinner.

Look at all that soda! And we drank most of it (except 3 cases).

Tubing with Mindy. I couldn't hang on.

Tubing with Micala.

Relaxing in the water by the houseboat.

The whole group (minus 3 people) at Rainbow Bridge.

Attempting to Water ski. I didn't get up, if you can't tell. Steve is in the water with me. He made me promise to lift some weights and strengthen my arms for next year.

Digging holes for the anchors. I didn't actually have to do it, but I offered.

Waking up the first morning - thanks Steve for this picture. We all slept on the top of the houseboat. It was like one big sleepover 5 nights in a row!

Some Old Pictures

2009-06-23T17:12:00.002-06:00

I woke up this morning at 4 am and couldn't sleep. So, I went downstairs and started sifting through some old pictures that I have. I've been meaning to scan and upload some old photo's that I have and then when I go home this summer I am going to scan in the pictures my mother has. Anyways, if you want to look at some old pictures click here. There were too many for me to load up onto the blog and I couldn't just choose a few to put on here.

Where, oh where, have all the Alpha Males gone?

2009-06-03T13:36:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, we had a combined Relief Society and Elders Quorum meeting during third hour. The agenda included a question / answer section where we wrote questions on slips of paper for the Bishopric to answer. There were three questions about dating that were read (only three, I was shocked!):

1. Why is there so much pressure in the Singles Ward to date?
2. Why don’t boys ask girls out?
3. What can girls do to encourage boys to ask them out?

What ensued was a cross-gender discussion of things we all know and have all heard before. Pressure? We need to get married in order to go to the Celestial Kingdom, duh! What girls can do? Flirt (another duh!). Apparently the idea came across that the girls don’t try, don’t flirt, aren’t nice enough, etc, etc. However I know that a lot of that goes on – I watch it every week.

Now to answer the 2nd question: Why don’t boys ask girls out? Let me take a moment to step onto my soapbox.

The answers given were the usual nonsense: boys are scared, girls are intimidating, there is this pressure that if you ask a girl out she thinks you want to marry her, blah, blah, blah. But no matter what the excuse, it is simply that – an excuse. My question is, why would I even like a boy who is “afraid” to ask me out? This leads to my post title: Where have all the alpha males gone?

Now when you hear the term “Alpha Male” many conjure images of overbearing, dominating, creatins who treat women as dumb bimbo’s who can’t make a decision on their own. However, that is not the case. An alpha male in the animal world is the leader of the pack/family. He may at times be overbearing, but it is not done out of self-gratification, but out of a desire to protect his family. Now the interesting thing in the animal world is that an alpha male also has an alpha female. She is not weak or submissive. In fact, the alpha female is the 2nd in command and above all other males in the group, a leader in her own right. She is the female equivalent of the alpha, his equal. Do I dare use the term help mete? (Genesis 2:18) Yes, I do!

So, Ladies, why do we give excuses to men who are too weak for us? I have seen many men who are meek, shy, and humble, see a girl they like, pluck up the courage and ask her out and pursue her. They may not be an “alpha male” every moment of their lives, but they can don the role, if needed, and often will in order to get the girl they want.

Now this is when I hear the story (which one was told on Sunday) about a girl who asked a boy out, straying from social conventions, went after what she wanted and it worked out, they are happily married, have babies, blah, blah blah. Well the point is, for me, that isn’t what I want. I want a man who wants me. The kind of man who sees what he wants and goes after it. I think this is because I am a strong woman and I don’t want to be the dominate member of the relationship. I don’t want to lead all the time. I don’t want to convince someone to like me. I want that someone to see me as I am, like what he sees, and go after it. Where is my alpha male? Because it seems like so many of the men I know like to make excuses for not dating, when in fact they should just go after what they want.

So, I ask once again, why don’t boys ask girls out? Ladies, they are not interested in you. Move on. Find that alpha male who will ask you out and show you what a treasure you really are. He will see your strength and not be “intimidated” by it, but see it as a favorable trait. He will not make excuses and he won’t be afraid of you. He will be your equal and recognize those shared traits in you and rejoice in them!

I am now stepping off my soapbox. I apologize for the long post.

Funny Signs!

2009-05-04T21:06:00.002-06:00

I went grocery shopping today at Peterson's in Riverton. I saw these two signs and I just laughed and laughed out loud. Here they are for your enjoyment.

This sign was above all the pork in the meat cooler. It informs the public that "Pork is safe to eat." And then it tells us that eating pork does not make someone have the Swine Flu. And they highlighted those sections! I just love it! How stupid does someone have to be to stop eating pork? And, for another point, the flu is a virus!

Second, I love buying Coke in the bottles. It is manufactured in Mexico and they use real Cane Sugar and it has a higher caffeine amount. I always called it "Mexican Coke," but it was a joke. Apparently at Peterson's that is a marketing tool. It may not be PC, but it must work. I just loved it. I laughed and laughed and then bought two. Yay for Mexi!

River Hill Ward

2009-05-03T16:31:00.002-06:00

I made the following video for my ward. It is a highlight of some of the activities we do and what our ward is like. They are going to use it when inviting people to come to our ward. I have to admit that I am a little embarrassed that it will be going out to all sorts of people, but I'm also really proud. I like it. And I really like making movies.

Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPrijKFu7tY

You can watch it below, but the window on my blog isn't wide enough for the video, but you would get the general idea.

71. Try Sushi

2009-05-02T11:38:00.003-06:00

I did it! I really did it! I ate sushi and you know what? I liked it. Above we had spicy tuna, baja, vegas roll, and one I can't remember. The favorite of mine was the spicy tuna. We went to the Happy Sumo - it is only my first sushi place, but it was nice.

This is what I ordered - the baja roll. It was really spicy. It is that wasabe (spelling) sauce and the jalapeno's. I thought I wouldn't get full, but I did and as you can see between the three of us we didn't finish everything.

Things People Say 10

2009-04-22T22:21:00.003-06:00

Today a student popped into my room to ask me a question. Instead he said, (from 20 feet away)

"Wow! You're wearing eyeshadow."

I responded, "Ummm, yeah."

He stared at me and then turned around and walked out and never asked the question.

Two things:

1. This student is really quiet and bashful and yet incredibly honest. So it must have really been noticeable for him.

2. I apparently don't wear makeup enough to work because it is now, apparently, noticeable when I do wear makeup. Must try to wear makeup more often. In fact, I don't remember the last time I did wear makeup.

79. Do a Distance Walk for Charity - MS Walk

2009-04-11T19:01:00.007-06:00

I walked in the MS Walk today. I really, really enjoyed it - even though I did it by myself. Below is a video I made for it.

I want to thank everyone who donated $ to the MS Society - Ronnie, Mandy, Terrie, Mom, and an anonymous donation (but I'm pretty sure I know who you are).

For some reason, my video won't fit in the blog window. I think it is because I made it in Widescreen. You can go to Youtube to see it or click on full screen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xquyk7Fye1s

5 Guys and Adventureland

2009-04-09T14:42:00.004-06:00

Jesseca and I went to see Adventureland and go to 5 Guys for dinner on Tuesday. First, Adventureland was hillarious and completely inappropriate. It is an independent film staring Kristen Stewart (from Twilight). Jesseca and I laughed and laughed, but I must warn all of you who are not as desensitized as I am, there is a lot of swearing and marijana use.

The basic premis of the movie is that the main character has to work at Adventureland in Pittsburg for the summer before he goes to Graduate School because his parents have lost all their money. While working there he meets Kristen Stewart, who also works there. She is rebelling against her father and is generally confused with who she is. They have a bit of a summer romance and then break up at the end. It's tragic, but the ending of the movie is still good. In the process they learn about themselves, about forgiveness, and falling in love.

This is the T-Shirt they wear in the movie. Jesseca and I are going to buy one for each of us!

We also ate at 5 Guys. I have heard so many good things about it. I really did like it, but I do like a good hamburger. I liked that it was simple and I got to choose all my toppings.

Me - at 5 Guys

Warning - they give you a ton of fries. This is the regular size, minus all the french fries that Jesseca ate. They give you an obsence amount of french fries. I suggest ordering a regular and splitting it with 2 or 3 people.

MS Walk

2009-04-05T21:30:00.002-06:00

I am participating my first ever walk for charity. I am going to walk this Saturday, April 11th, at the MS Walk at the Gateway in Salt Lake City. I am walking in this because my roommates father, and in several ways a "father" to me, has MS.

Did you know that Utah has the highest rate of diagnosis for MS in the nation? So it is very possible that you or someone you love with be diagnosed with MS in your lifetime. There needs to be so much more research done in order to understand and treat MS.

If you would like to help and make a contribution (of any amount) please go to my personal page and you can donate online to the MS Society at http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Walk/UTUWalkEvents?px=4578065&pg=personal&fr_id=10742&s_tafId=104871

Last year Ronnie was able to walk in the event, but is not able to this year. This is the post I made last year.

Thank you to anyone who helps support this cause!

Digital Scrap booking

2009-03-26T21:13:00.004-06:00

So a friend of my turned me on to digital scrap booking. I downloaded Adobe Elements and some free papers, kits, and embellishments. I made this page for my friends Teresa and Jenni. We have all been friends since Jr. High and Teresa is leaving on a mission on April 1st.

84. Make a quote book (like in A Walk To Remember).

2009-03-11T12:28:00.001-06:00

So, this is the quote book I bought. I wanted something sturdy and think that would last a long time. So if you have a favorite quote - please send to me so that I can add it to my book! This is an ongoing goal, but really I guess I fulfilled it.

56. Write actual thank-you notes for the gifts I am given.

2009-03-11T12:13:00.004-06:00

Since my birthday was last week, I was able to start writing my thank you cards. Now I just need to actually mail them!

First Flower Delivery

2009-03-11T11:58:00.004-06:00

My roommates sent a bouquet of flowers to my school for my birthday! How sweet! I loved it!

Picture

2009-03-04T20:08:00.002-07:00

So I was looking at pictures of a friend on facebook and came across this picture of me from high school. I wasn't tagged in the picture (thank heavens!). But this is a picture of me in my yearbook shirt, when I was in the 11th grade. Yes, that is me eating ketchup - if I remember right it was a dare. But this got me thinking . . . .

How many pictures are there of me on facebook that I don't know about?

Funny things about this picture: I'm wearing my high school ring, which I later lost. Also a bracelet that I think I wore for most of that year. And my name is spelled wrong on my shirt Leslie. And look at my hair! It doesn't look like I even did it that day - which I probably didn't.

101 Goals for 1001 Days

2009-03-03T15:39:00.002-07:00

So, I saw this on a friends blog and thought it was a good idea. The idea is that you set 101 goals to be accomplished in 1001 days. Some of mine are silly, some serious, some small, some big. But I do think I can actually do all of these things.

I will be blogging updates and crossing off the goals that I accomplish.

Start: March 3, 2009
End: November 29, 2011

1. Read Crime and Punishment
2. Visit New York City.
3. Go to a blues club in Harlem and enjoy.
4. Visit Quebec and speak in French.
5. Learn to speak French.
6. Go to Disneyland with friends and act like a child.
7. Re-teach myself to meditate and do it on a normal basis.
8. Try to be a Vegan for one week.
9. Try to be a Vegetarian for one week.
10. Send Christmas cards each year.
11. Write the novel I’ve been putting off for 10 years.
12. Write 25 poems and attempt to have one published.
13. Dye my hair a different color (not brown).
14. See a show on Broadway (in New York).
15. Go to a major league baseball game.
16. Watch one documentary a month. (0/32)
17. Watch all the Best Picture movies (0/81)
18. Read the standard works (Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price).
19. Give up soda for one month.
20. Read a new book each month. (0/32)
21. Go snorkeling.
22. Index 10,000 names for Family Search. (0/10,000)
23. Drive through 10 states that I have never been to. (0/10)
24. Go to a concert.
25. Don’t eat out for one month.
26. Buy a dog.
27. Memorize 5 poems. (0/5)
28. Sponsor a Bunko Tournament.
29. Successfully make chocolate mousse.
30. Buy a house.
31. Read 5 friends favorite books, no matter what they are. (0/5)
32. Make a dress.
33. Learn how to make and can my own salsa.
34. Go to festival of colors.
35. Make a mix CD for 20 different people. (0/20)
36. See 5 sunrises. (0/5)
37. See 5 sunsets. (0/5)
38. Leave 100 inspirational notes in library books. (0/100)
39. Put a super secret symbol on all my dollar bills.
40. Lose 10% of my body weight.
41. Make 25 leprosy bandages to donate for humanitarian aide. (0/25)
42. Lear to play 5 hymns from the hymnbook. (0/5)
43. Read the collective letters of CS Lewis.
44. Write in my creative writing journal 3x week.
45. Participate in NaNoWriMo and finish!
46. Write in my journal at least 3x week.
47. Paint 4 pictures: Venice, Berlin, London, Paris
48. Read the ALA’s top ten books for young adults.
49. Dye a piece of my hair a wild color.
50. Catalog my DVD’s.
51. Catalog my books.
52. Buy 10 gifts for friends, just because – not for a holiday or birthday. (0/10)
53. Take a class learning a new skill.
54. Go on a hike just to take pictures.
55. Visit Mill Hollow.
56. Write actual thank-you notes for the gifts I am given.
57. Try 20 recipes out of a ward cookbook that I have never made. (0/20)
58. Don’t watch television or a movie for 7 days. (0/7)
59. Get an indoor plant and keep it alive for one year.
60. Plant an herb garden in my window.
61. Send 10 postcards through postcrossing. (0/10)
62. Participate in NaBloPoMo.
63. Swim a mile.
64. Go to the zoo.
65. Make a snowman.
66. Make a sand castle.
67. Write and make a short film.
68. Send a postcard to postsecret.
69. Do a session in every temple in Utah (0/13).
70. Bake 5 people a birthday cake. (0/5)
71. Try sushi.
72. Learn to make rolls from scratch.
73. Buy someone flowers.
74. Create the video of my cruise.
75. Interview my Grandparents and make DVD.
76. Read the biography of a President that I don’t know anything about.
77. Write a “letter to the Editor” on a topic I am passionate about.
78. Write and submit a “This I Believe” essay.
79. Do a distance walk for a charity.
80. Frame by high school, BA, and MEd degrees and post in my classroom.
81. Learn to make fondue and have a party.
82. Do a 1000+ piece puzzle and have it framed.
83. Learn how to paint my room and then do it.
84. Make a quote book (like in A Walk To Remember).
85. Finish reading a book that Matthew has suggested.
86. Memorize all the scripture mastery scriptures. (0/80)
87. Be able to write all fifty states and capitals by memory.
88. Watch the entire series of Friends. (0/238)
89. Buy a coloring book and color every picture.
90. Read the Conference issue of the Ensign before the next conference.
91. Attend the temple 50 times. (0/50)
92. Ride my bike to the store/library 20 times. (0/20)
93. Go to 10 Bees games. (0/10)
94. Go to Barnes and Noble, pretend to read/write, but really people watch for 2 hours.
95. Finish a NY Times Crossword without cheating.
96. Sleep under the stars.
97. Edit my favorite photo’s from traveling and have them blown up and framed.
98. Go to bed without watching a movie for 2 weeks. (0/14)
99. Host a themed party.
100. Take a picture for every goal on this list I accomplish.
101. Influence 10 people to do this as well.

Sated by Sleep

2009-02-23T19:28:00.003-07:00

I am currently teaching a unit on poetry and therefore, I am writing a whole lot more than I have been recently. Here is a little poem I wrote in church last week. If you know me at all, you know I love sleeping (when it is good sleep).

Sated by Sleep

The sun streams through the window
Bathing my body with a hot breath.
I wake,
Slowly.
One eye opening, closing, blinking,
Adjusting to the bright rays.
Arms and legs splayed
Heavy with comfort
Taking the width of the bed as their own.
Pillows spread in any empty space,
Blankets twisted -
Under one leg, across my belly,
Wound around my arms
As my hand clutches greedily.

As if filled by lead, I slowly
Rise,
Yawn,
And blink at the window in welcome.
Then lay back down
Reluctant to give up the warmth and comfort of
Down, feathers, quilts, and kisses of light.

Such a Long Time!

2009-02-19T20:15:00.002-07:00

So, I haven't written on the blog in a really long time. I apologize to all my faithful readers, who may not be faithful anymore after waiting and waiting. You see, I went to school on January 9th thinking that it was going to be an ordinary Friday. However, it wasn't. My principal called me into his office, we talked about budget cuts, and he told me that I might not have a job for the next year. Well that put all my plans on hold and for the last 40 days or so I haven't handled the news too well. I was in full swing to buy a condo and now seemed the best time to "take the plunge." But once I heard that, the practical, planning, stepford side of me just wouldn't let me continue. Then I went into panic mode about finding a job somewhere else and started looking into moving, even moving out of state. But today I got the news that I will have a job for next year. Whew! So onward and upward. Now I can pick up again and move forward with my plans. I'm going to guess that this will increase my blogging, now that I might actually be doing something instead of sitting and waiting for news.

Top 100 Best-Sellers of 2008

2009-01-24T12:27:00.003-07:00

The USA Today published the top selling books of 2008. To see the full list click here. But I wanted to talk about a few of them.

1. Twilight - Stephenie Meyer
2. New Moon - Stephenie Meyer
3. Breaking Dawn - Stephenie Meyer
4. Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer
14. The Host - Stephenie Meyer

Now if you know me at all, you know that I loved all of these books. But I am so happy for Stephenie Meyer and the success of her books. I never thought I would like to read books about vampires, werewolves, or aliens. But I do!

11. Eat, Pray, Love - Elizabeth Gilbert

My roommate Alina gave this book to me for my birthday last year. I really did love this book. It isn't a story, but more a collection of essays or episodes. The writing is beautiful and I felt a real connection to what the author had to say.

13. The Audacity of Hope - President Barack Obama
20. Dreams From My Father - President Barack Obama

Now, you would think that since I am such a supporter of our new President, that I would have read these books, but I admit I haven't. Although I do have Dreams From My Father reserved at the library and should get it soon. I am more interested in that book than The Audacity of Hope because President Obama wrote it before any presidential aspirations. I have read excerpts from The Audacity of Hope and was impressed not only by his writing style but the message. I'm sure I'll be posing soon.

21. Diary of a Whimpy Kid - Jeff Kinney

I just ordered this book for my classroom!

24. The Friday Night Knitting Club - Kate Jacobs

The Riverton Library has a table every month of books that they recommend. I forget what it is called, but you can then cast your own vote on the book you read. Well, I have almost picked up this book like 5 times and always set it back down. I think I'll actually take it home the next time.

27. The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini

I have heard so much about this book. But my roommate Alina read it and she said it was a very upsetting book. I just don't think I can read it. The story seems too heartbreaking to me.

36. The Other Boleyn Girl - Philippa Gregory

I loved this book! But I must warn anyone who wants to read it that there is sex involved. To me it was a story of power and in 1575 England what kind of power did women really have? Not much except the promise of children. Women were forced to do things that they might not have wanted to, but they did them anyways. I am so glad we don't live in a time like that. The book is mostly fiction with a little bit of historical fact, but I enjoyed seeing another side of the story of King Henry VIII.

40. Atonement - Ian McEwan

The book is just as disjointed as the movie, but you see so much more. The writing style is simplistic and very modern. I liked it.

43. The Secret Life of Bees - Sue Monk Kidd

I bought this book in the summer and have yet to read it. But I really do plan on reading it before I see the movie.

46. Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 4: The Battle of the Labyrinth - Rick Riordan
70. Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1: The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan

This is part of a series of books for kids about 12 years old. I actually teach the first book in my classroom. I may be 27, but I love the book. I also got my roommate Mandy to read the series, which she liked, and she is also going to teach the first book. If you like mythology at all, these are high adventure books based in mythology where the main character is the son of Poseidon. But they take place in modern times and places. Great fun!

50. The Alchemist - Paulo Coelho

Really? I know that people loved this book, but I just couldn't get into it, sorry.

52. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
95. The Catcher in the Rye - J.D. Salinger

I am so glad that classics like these are still being sold today! (Even though I hate The Catcher in the Rye.)

55. The Memory Keeper's Daughter - Kim Edwards

Mandy has tried to get me to read this, but I didn't. Maybe I should give it a shot.

79. High Noon - Nora Roberts

Okay, so I admit it. This is the only Nora Roberts book I have ever read. I read it during Christmas at my mother's house since all my books were stolen, along with my suitcase. I really liked it. The main character is a negotiator for suicides and hostage situations. Very exciting. But it is a "romance" and so you know what that means.

85. Wicked - Gregory Maquire

Okay, I started to read this, but stopped. Why would I stop you ask? Isn't Wicked the musical so popular? Yes, but it certainly doesn't have much to do with the book. I stopped reading the book right when the characters go to a club and start having sex with animals. Yup, book shut and thrown away. Don't read it!

87. Oh, the Places You'll Go! - Dr. Seuss
89. Green Eggs and Ham - Dr. Seuss

You have to love Dr. Seuss! I think he will be on the top selling list for a long time.

Dear Mr. President,

2009-01-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

Today, I listened to your inauguration speech and I was proud that I voted for you. I watched it with 50 teenagers and was amazed that they were quiet. They look to you as the leader of our nation and your leadership will direct their transition into adulthood and guide their lives.

However, as you talked about in your speech, this nation is not just about you and not just about your presidency, we are all “keepers of this legacy.” You called all of us to exercise our freedoms and our citizenship: “For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.”

Thank you for reminding us that we cannot blame others for what ills our own nation and that we must work together for a common good with “unity of purpose.”

I gave you my vote, I rallied your cause, and defended your politics. Now I ask of you to not let me down and I promise I will not let you down either.

New Years Resolutions

2009-01-01T17:02:00.002-07:00

So, I have never made New Years Resolutions before. They seemed a little silly to me. You know the traditional ones like lose weight, or not be so critical of myself, or show gratitude. Well, last night I went to a stranger's house and they were making 12 Resolutions for 12 months. It took me about 2 hours, but I did actually come up with 12 resolutions. They are really more like goals. I'm posting them because I've read that if you make goals you should tell people because it makes you more accountable.

Buy a house by June.
Practice the piano 2 times a week.
Exercise 3 times a week.
Read all of the Standard Works in one year (Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price).
Write in my journal 5 times a week.
Leave work at work.
Make the video from my cruise.
Read 20 books on my "Must Read" book list.
Go somewhere I have never been before.
Write 300 pages of my novel.
Finish 4 paintings (including the one of Venice for Melissa).
Do 2 community education classes that I haven't done before.

Has Anyone Seen My Purple Bag?

2008-12-26T12:08:00.002-07:00

The story I am about to tell you is true.

So, last minute I quit my second job and bought a plane ticket to be home in Washington for Christmas. I'm starting to think that rash decisions are not good decisions.

So, Portland (where I fly into) had been having ice storms and flights were not getting in or out for five days up to the day I flew out. Well, I made it out and landed in Portland. Now, since I am only home for one week I normally would have carried on my luggage, but I am giving myself these injections and because I am not a diabetic, I can't carry the needles on the plane. You know I might just stab someone with my needle. So, I checked my luggage. I am waiting patiently in the baggage claim watching the same 20 bags go around and around and finally I admit to myself that for the first time in my life my luggage has been lost. I make a claim and move on my not-so-merry way. On the way home we stopped at the store and bought me a shirt and pj's and some other necessitites.

A day goes by and it is now Christmas Eve. I check online and my bag has been found, flown to Portland, and is on it's way to being delivered that night. Yeah! A Christmas Miracle! Or so I thought.

The next morning I wake up, still without bag, to a message that was left at 2:34am. It was the delivery driver. You see, Washington looks more like Utah right now. We have about 1.5 feet of snow and no snow plows. You can only imagine. People have to use chains everywhere they go. Well I guess what happened was this:

The delivery guy couldn't make it up my hill to my house. So he took my bag out and decided to walk the bag up the hill. But, before he did that he got back into his car - which obviously did not have chains (and why is he in a car and not a delivery truck, I don't know) - to look at the maps and see if there was another way to my house, which there is. So he drove off to go another way. This time he made it to my house, but my bag was still outside on the side of the road. Yes, he left it. Which someone decided that they wanted it and took it. By the time he made it back down the hill the bag was gone. Some neighbors saw two men walking off with it. The police were called and my bag is still missing.

All I have to say is "What an idiot!" My friend Melissa says, "That is his job - to look after packages!" I am flabergasted, angry, but it is really ridiculous.

What I am the most sick about is my clothes. I didn't really have much in the way of presents, but the clothes. All my favorite clothes were in that bag! Maybe only women can understand, but when you find something you really like and it fits so well, you just can't replace it. Sigh!

I have made a claim with Delta Airlines, but who knows when I will hear back from them and if I will get anything back at all.

Body Worlds

2008-12-10T10:43:00.003-07:00

A few weeks ago, I went to see Body Worlds at the Leonardo in Salt Lake. It was amazing! I thought I might be a little queasy or grossed out, but I wasn't. I was so intrigued and fascinated by the bodies.

So, in case you didn't know, they take the skin and fat off the bodies, and take out their organs. So you can see the bones, muscles, veins. This exhibition focused on the heart, so it was mostly on the heart, muscles, and veins. Only a few of the bodies had organs. They place the bodies in crazy positions so that you can see how your muscles word. They also have smaller tables with parts of organs. There were three parts that really affected me and the strangers that were around me.

They showed a healthy lung, and then a lung with cancer. Your lung literally turns black and is crispy and hard. They had a box where people could put their cigarettes in.
They had 18000 gallons worth of barrels in one room. That is how much blood your body pumps everyday. An overweight man said aloud, "We really need to start exercising. Our hearts are just too weak to pump all this blood."
They had a room dedicated to human conception. This was a really hard room. I'm glad that I was only in the room with 2 other people, a married couple. They had actual fetuses up to 42 weeks. It was so sad. The man (who was a rough and tough trucker type guy) started crying. Not just a few tears, but bawling. I had to hurry and leave because I was going to start crying as well.

If you get a chance to go - GO!!!! Here is their website for more information. Go look at it anyways because it has a great video on the main page and shows a lot of cool bodies.

First Purchase

2008-11-28T12:32:00.002-07:00

So, after years of abstaining from the practice of shopping on "Black Friday," I actually went out and bought something today. I bought a washer and dryer for my future home. Now, I don't know where that home will be or when I will move in, but I know it will be this spring. I just couldn't pass up the great deals.

I bought a Samsung washer and dryer combo at Sears. They were originally about $1999 together, but I bought them for $999. Not too bad. The washer is 4.0cu capacity and the dryer is 7.3cu capacity. (I didn't get the stands. I don't know how big my washing room will be.)
It was funny, because I worked at Sears and I know how it works. So, I just walked in, stood in the middle of the washers, and looked around for a salesperson, not at a washer. I waited about 30 seconds, caught they eye of a salesman, and withing 2 minutes was buying away. I think it is a little shocking for some people because who buys such a big purchase so quickly? But, I knew exactly what I wanted and didn't need to be "sold" into buying anything. Why waste my time being told about a product I already know I want?

The best part is that they can hold off on delivering them for up to six months. So, even though I don't have a place to live and no where to put the washer and dryer, it is all okay because they have a home in the Sears warehouse. Yea for Sears!

That Time of Year Again

2008-11-25T22:37:00.002-07:00

I have been trying to avoid it, but it is that time of year again - The Christmas Season. I am not a big fan of Christmas, not that I'm not a big fan of Christ, but all the hoop-la doesn't excite me or put me in the "Christmas Spirit." I have been trying to pretend that it wasn't happening. Every time I walk into a store I try to not notice the Christmas decorations, signs, presents. I no longer listen to FM 100 or KOSY 106.5 (and have actually taken them off my presets in my car and radio at home) so that I don't inadvertently hear a Christmas song. I was avoiding buying presents and reluctantly gave my mother an idea of what to get me. But, I can't avoid it anymore. Tonight Mandy put up her Christmas tree and on Friday all of the decorations will come out. Riverton City put up the Christmas decorations that go on the light poles. And yesterday, I actually bought a Christmas present. Congratulations Alina, you were the first. (Although I have known what I was going to get her for about 2 months, but was avoiding the whole thing).

If you want to know why I am not a big fan of the "Christmas Season" read this post from last year. But don't worry, if you read that post, you will know that I'm not completely hopeless.

So, now I'm ready. Bring it on! While most people are counting down to the actual event, I count down to when all this fuss is over with. 29 days, I think.

A "Sort of" Twilight Review

2008-11-25T14:38:00.002-07:00

So, as all of you know, I am a Twilight fan. And of course I went to see the movie. I have been reading a lot of blogs and posts about what people thought about Twilight. I did like the movie, but I realized that I liked it because I was determined to like it. Let me explain. So many people were worried about how they would portray the characters, tell the story, what they would cut out, what they would rearrange, but I decided that I was going to like the movie for what it was - whatever it came out to be. I learned that there are always good things you can find about things. This got me wondering about why I don't do this with everything in my life. If I was determined to like everything I did or encountered, then wouldn't I be a much happier person? Or if I was determined to like all of my students (even the one who deleted another student's research paper today - oh yeah it happened) wouldn't I enjoy going to work more everyday? So, after watching Twilight I realized that I am going to be a determined person - determined to find something I like in everything. Here is a list of things I am determined to like about today:

By working a 2nd job, I am able to buy a house sooner - like that.
I listen to books on CD at my 2nd job, very nice. I'm actually listening to podcasts of conference, which is really good because I slept through a lot of it.
I work at a school that lets me wear jeans and a t-shirt - very nice.
I am determined to like that my students care so much about each other, even when it disrupts class.
I am determined to like that I spend 2 hours a day in my car driving because I can listen to books or conference. It gives me time to think and de-stress.
I am determined to like contacting parents because it means that I can learn more about my students lives at home.

Curse the Stairs!!!

2008-11-17T12:11:00.002-07:00

So, for like 8 years I lived on the 2nd and 3rd floors of buildings. For 8 years, I never once fell. However, in the 2.5 years I have lived with Mandy, I have fallen many times. And I fell yet again coming down the stairs last night, but this time it was the worst. I was four steps from making it safely down, when my legs literally flew out from under me and I landed on my ass. I was also carrying a cup full of water, which consequently went flying all over me and the floor, oh and the banisters. I cleaned it up and stomped off to bed. But boy did my behind hurt. I woke up this morning with intense pain in my behind and up my right side of my lower back. I didn't go to work and instead went to instacare. The doctor basically said to me, "Ouch. Maybe you should be more careful." AS IF I ENJOY FALLING DOWN THE STAIRS!!! Then he said that because of the bruising (oh yeah, there is definitely bruising) and the tenderness that he thinks I either bruised or sprained the bone. Maybe even a hairline fracture, but nothing worse. He told me to do three things:

Take Ibuprofen (nope he wouldn't give me a prescription for anything else)
Ice my ass (every two hours)
Try not to sit down (really my 2nd job is data entry, where I have to sit down!) He kindly suggested one of those donut things to sit on. Yeah right.

I definitely want a 1 level condo to live in. I actually had never even fallen down stairs until I moved here, so I am blaming the stairs. I am a klutz, but there has to be something wrong with these. Like they are too short or the carpet is extra slippery.

Mars?

2008-11-06T16:22:00.003-07:00

So, I am a total Star Trek fanatic and I whole-heartily agree in the philosophy of "To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly going where no man has gone before." But I read this the other day: "Conquer Cancer Before Mars." I have to say that got me thinking. In fact I haven't stopped thinking about it. I always thought that we should be trying to advance, not only in technology but in our civilization. But I have had so many people close to me die of cancer and I will probably die of cancer as well and I wonder wht is more important: human life now or human life in the future?

I decided to look up how much the government spends on Mars. On this site I found out that in 1994 when the government was funding its first Mars mission it was 980 billion dollars over 10 years. It worked out to be about $4.70 per person. That doesn't seem like much.

But on this site they compared it to other things (and it is more current):

Manned Mars Mission - $1 Trillion
Iraq War and Reconstruction - $150 Billion
To Alleviate Global Poverty - $50 Billion
Mars Rovers - $820 Billion

I also read that we have a national debt of Half a Trillion Dollars. (New Yorker, Sept 19, 2008)

So, economically, it seems that while it isn't very much per person, there are much better things to do with our money - pay off the national debt, end poverty, invest in education. But those are just some thoughts.

However, there is the argument that Mars is the only planet that "possesses all the raw materials required to support not only life, but a new branch of human civilization." (click here to read more).

But when it comes right down to it, I would rather pay $4.70 a year on curing cancer, AIDS, fighting poverty, eliminating debt, creating jobs, and improving education than on space exploration. How can we even think to colonize another planet when ours is in such dissaray? If the government does try to colonize Mars in the future, will we be leaving earth to destroy another planet? To kill each other on another planet? To hate on another planet? Is it worth it? No, I don't think so.

Things People Say - 9

2008-10-24T16:31:00.003-06:00

Or in this post - The Stupidity of Some People

I am working on my Masters degree online. Each term we have 2 group projects. It is difficult to say the least. We have to post section of papers and "talk" to each other through an online discussion board. Well, this term I have some really stupid people in my group (and I worry because these people are educating our youth - but that is a whole other bucket). Anyways . . . I noticed that the other half of my group was not following directions for the assignment. They needed to write their section in a chart, which they were not. So I made the chart for them and posted it with directions. Here is one response I got:

"I hate to sound so stupid, but is this the format we were supposed to put it into?"

I wanted to respond: "No, I just posted the chart for kicks and giggles!" (But I didn't, don't worry)

Duh! How dumb are some people? Don't they at least read directions? I guess not.

First Snow

2008-10-11T22:21:00.001-06:00

So, I was driving home tonight and I saw snow flakes! Yes, this officially heralds the coming of winter. Now for some people, they rejoice when it reaches over 70 or 80 or 90 degrees. I rejoice when the temperature drops, snow falls, and I can start wearing one of my three wool coats with matching scarves and gloves. I just love the winter and, so far, I have never met anyone else who likes winter like I do. So, even though you are hating the cold weather, please try to not hate it so much because I love it.

The Rat Pack Live at the Sands

2008-10-09T20:15:00.004-06:00

Last night I went to The Rat Pack Live at the Sands - really at Kingsbury Hall. It was so good. I really wish my students enjoyed the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. as much as I did. They did a good job at mimicking their voices and mannerisms. I was quite impressed, but nothing is as good as the real thing. Below is a video from the performance that I found on YouTube. We had a different singer for Frank Sinatra.

Things People Say 8

2008-10-09T15:43:00.004-06:00

I was telling my class how much I love hamburgers, when a student said

"You should be careful and not eat so much fat because fat causes cancer."

The whole class just looks at him with confused expressions.

"Oh wait! Cancer causes cancer - that's right!"

I seriously laughed for like a minute. This student cracks me up! But, most of the time I'm laughing at him and not with him. He seriously thought for a moment that fat caused cancer.

Look! I'm Famous!

2008-10-02T11:28:00.003-06:00

So, for kicks and giggles I decided to see if I was in the BYU Library - and yes I am! This is a paper I wrote for a folklore class. It was a huge project. Below is the library record. I feel almost like a published author! Plus, someone actually had to read my 50 page paper to do the summary and then I don't know where they got the info for the bio sections! Ha!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Snipe hunting : it's not always fun and games, 2002
Morris, Lesli Joe, 1981-

Personal Author:	Morris, Lesli Joe, 1981-
Title:	Snipe hunting : it's not always fun and games, 2002.
Physical description:	1 item (50 leaves)
Access restriction:	Open for public research.
Summary:	Collection of stories about the prank called snipe hunting. The prank consists of one group of young men or young women taking another group outdoors in search of the nonexistent animal, called a snipe. Morris relates how this game is often played by young member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during retreats and camps. Morris differentiates between types of snipe hunting and the reasons behind them. She concludes by relating the stories to William Bascom's four functions of folklore.
Related materials:	These materials are part of the William A. Wilson Folklore Archives.
Biographical sketch:	Morris was born in West Valley, Utah. She majored in English and received a minor in Computers and Humanities at Brigham Young University.
Custodial history:	Created by Lesli Joe Morris while she was enrolled in Eric Eliason's English 391 class during the fall semester of 2002.
Corporate subject:	Brigham Young University--Students--Folklore.
Subject term:	Practical jokes--Folklore.
Subject term:	Snipes--Folklore.
Subject term:	Mormon youth--United States--Folklore.
Genre or Form:	College students' writings, American--Utah--Provo.
Genre or Form:	Folklore.
Location:	L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602.

Holdings
HBLL Special Collections
	Copy	Material	Location
FA 1 2765	1	Archival Manuscript	Manuscript Collection - 1130 HBLL

Worst Date Ever!

2008-09-24T00:16:00.003-06:00

So, my brother joined the military and in an attempt to entertain him I wrote him the following letter about a bad date I went on. Warning, this post is long, but entertaining. Enjoy and be happy you didn't go on this date.

*Names have been changed to protect the innocent

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Dear Brandon,

Last night I went to a camp that we take our students to in order to teach them leadership and trust. Well, after the kids were supposed to be sleeping, the staff was in the staff cabin telling stories. I was asked to tell my worst dating experience. It is actually a really funny experience and they just laughed and laughed. So I thought I would retell it to you and maybe it would make you laugh. Feel free to share with the other boys. It can be a “what not to do” on a date.

First, let me tell you how we got set up. I went to visit Grandma and Grandpa over Mother’s day. I went to church with Grandpa and Grandma stayed home. She really hasn’t been doing very well. So, her visiting teacher, Rebecca Blake, came up to me and asked me to take home some stuff to Grandma. She instantly liked me and asked if I would consider dating an older man. Now, lets be honest here. I’m not getting any younger and so I said sure. She then called later that day and got my phone number to give to her son Chris. Now, Chris is a 39 year old divorcee. I wasn’t too worried. A few weeks later he called and we talked for about an hour and it was nice. He was easy to talk to and there wasn’t really a lull in the conversation. Then a few weeks later we went out. (Insert “Da, Da, Daahhhh!!!” music here)

He picked me up and to be honest, my first impression was, well, not impressed. He wasn’t bad looking, just ordinary. He looked a little bit like he might have the same stylist as Bill Gates. So, he doesn’t have a plan for the night. He asks me what restaurants are around and so I list off about four or so in Draper by the freeway: Applebees, Cafe Rio, Wingers, and El Rancho Grande. He says, well lets just drive and see. So we get in his car and oh my, it smelled like that old Borax soap, you know the powder kind that Grandpa used to use in the milking barn. Yuck! I wanted to roll down the window it bothered me so much.

So here we are driving down the road and he doesn’t want to go to any restaurant and he finally decides to go to El Rancho Grande. Now, you know how much I love that restaurant, but it isn’t the “nicest” place in the world. Well, we get in there and he keeps saying over and over, “Wow! This is a really nice place!” It was like he had never been out to eat in his life and was surprised that anyone would cook for him. While eating, we had nothing to say to each other. It was like we said all we had to say to each other on the phone.

Then once we left the restaurant he didn’t have any plans. So I suggested that we go the the Riverton City Arts Festival which was going on in the park. We walked around and around and around. At one point I asked him what he likes to do with his free time. How corny! But I couldn’t think of anything else. He says that he likes to do outdoorsy stuff, but can’t really do a lot in the winter. So I ask him if he likes TV. Yes, he does. Well after I 20 questioned him about his favorite TV show, comedy, drama, etc. I didn’t learn a thing. He didn’t know his favorite show and hadn’t seen any of the shows I mentioned. (I think he must only watch pornography). We listed to a band doing Glenn Miller songs - he didn’t know who Glenn Miller was, but told me that he thought his mother would like the music. (And he is 39, while I am only 27. I mean who doesn’t know who Glenn Miller is?)

Finally after walking around and around the tiny city park and having nothing to say to each other I told him that I needed to go to the bathroom, but would rather go in my house because it was so close. So, now we are back into my apartment and he sits down and settles down for the night. Sigh!

He only got more and more verbal as the night went on. Actually, I wanted him to shut up and go home, but he never did. He told me all about the many 31 and older Singles wards he had been in over the years. Now, there are only three in the whole world and they are all in the Salt Lake Valley. He told me about all the “interesting” (or as I call them - freaky) people he has met in the wards. But it got better. He went on a 30 minute tirade on why no one should get a car loan, why he walks and bikes everywhere, and how much he is putting into his 401k and IRA investments every month (as if that is supposed to impress me - I don’t want to walk everywhere).

Then he went on and on about his ex-wife. Well, actually it went on throughout the night. At first he just mentioned her, mentioned that they had only seen each other a “few” times over the 9 years. I’ll skip all the details and go right to the conclusion. By the end of the night it turned out that he is a stalker. Let me explain. So he was curious about a loan they had, called, got her new name, looked her up, went by her house (walking of coarse because he doesn’t drive), a couple years later (and who knows how many walk-bys) he noticed the car had changed, so he thinks that she must have moved. Somewhere in this time he saw her with her new son. Anyways he runs into her, well actually sees her in downtown Salt Lake several times. He “finds out” that she lives in an apartment building downtown. He goes to the lobby and looks up her name. He also saw her “on a date” on evening “on his way home.” One word - STALKER!!!

Eventually, he yawned, and I jumped on that and said, “Oh, yeah, I’m tired too.” And then I stood up. He finally got the hint. At the door I held onto the door and the door frame so that he couldn’t touch me. He kept talking at the door, but he finally left. My parting words were, “Drive Safe.” I made sure to not say, “I had a good time. or Let’s get together again sometime.”

But the crazy thing is that the next day I had a panic attack. I thought, “Really is this what there is out there for me? Am I going to end up marrying one of these losers?” It was only later that Aunt Carol told me she thought he was weird. Since my only boyfriend Jeff (the one I had when I was 18), I have been on 8 blind dates. One for each yucky year. And each blind date was bad - not one good one.

Luckily he never called me, but I did have an excuse already made up, just in case. I hope you found this incredibly long story entertaining! At least I can laugh about the whole experience, well laugh at the experience.

Love ya!

~Joe Joe

PS - Did the name sound familiar? Yeah, he is the nephew of Richard Blake, who is leasing Grandpa’s land. Hope I didn’t screw anything up with that business arrangement.

Greek Festival

2008-09-22T12:40:00.004-06:00

So I realized that I never posted about the Greek Festival. In all my years I have always wanted to go to the festival and I got really close to going last year, but didn't. So, Mandy, Christi and I went this year. It was fun, but I think the only reason people go is for the food (I'll admit that is why I went). The food was great! Now I understand why my mother loves it so much!

If I had done this post when I planned on doing it I probably would have remembered what all the food was called, but now that it has been a few weeks, I don't remember a thing. Sorry.

After Many Complaints . . .

2008-09-21T20:29:00.002-06:00

After many complaints from various readers, I have put back on the list of names of the many, many blogs I read. This is a new blog roll and so it will update and move the most recent posts to the top. I hope this makes everyone happy and I hope you enjoy reading all the blogs like I do!

And This Wasn't Even the Talent Show

2008-09-13T22:12:00.004-06:00

Here are some videos from a ward activity. I loved it!

Things People Say - 7

2008-09-05T07:52:00.001-06:00

Last night I was in the dressing room of the gym when the 10-12 year old swim class got out and this is what I heard:

"I've never had cramps."

"How old are you?"

"11"

"Oh, well you'll have lots of cramps when you're older."

"How old are you?"

"12. I know."

Damn Rock!

2008-09-02T13:12:00.000-06:00

So, last week I got in my car and drove to work. Well on the way there I get slammed by a rock. I looked and it didn't look too bad and I thought, "I'll go get that filled today after work." Well, when I got in my car the rock chip turned into a crack (see above).
So, I went to Techna Glass and got a new windshield. The best part . . . . my insurance doesn't cover windshields, so I paid cash for it. Damn rock! Doesn't it know I'm trying to buy a condo?

Back to School . . . Shoe Shopping!!!

2008-09-01T18:20:00.003-06:00

I just couldn't help myself! I just love shoes and I had a coupon. I mean who can resist buy one get one half off? And aren't they cute?

Another Mummy Movie - Awesome!

2008-08-31T11:36:00.005-06:00

So, I finally went to see the 4th Mummy movie - The Mummy - Tomb of the Dragon Emporer.

It was great! It was all I wanted and expected out of a cheesy action adventure movie:

Mythological creatures - like yeti and abominable snowmen
Mythical places like Shangrala where there is a spring of eternal life
Breaking into ancient tombs where creepy things happen
An evil character who can control elements like fire, air, and water
Kissing when they should be fighting
A love story that spans 2000 years
Ancient books that when read out of can do some pretty amazing things
Dead people coming back to life to fight for justice and freedom
A crazy car chase (in this case it also included a 2000 year old chariot and horses
Teamwork to defeat the evil character
People dying and coming back to life - or giving up their immortality
Lots of guns, shooting, stabbing, and bomb making

Yup, this was a good time all around. I highly enjoyed the completely unrealistic action adventure movie. But isn't that why we go to movies? - To escape reality.

Things People Say - 6

2008-08-26T13:55:00.004-06:00

"I want to take of my high heeled shoe and stab that student in the eye!"

Yeah, that was me, on the 4th day of school. Luckily that student was suspended and hasn't come back yet.

I said that to my principal who then said:

"Why didn't you? I would have personally destroyed the surveillance footage."

Good to know my boss has my back.

Family and Medical Leave Act

2008-08-25T13:39:00.002-06:00

Issue 2: The Family and Medical Leave Act

This is important to me because I grew up with a working mom. My mother couldn't take a lot of time off during the year to take care of me. I remember getting my finger shut in a desk at school and the neighbor had to pick me up because my mom was in a meeting (don't worry my mom came as soon as she found out). Also, I never told my mom about school activities because I knew she would have to take time off work to attend them and I would rather have her take her days off during the summer. Because of the way leave worked at her job, she missed out on a lot of things that my brother and I did. Also, when my grandparents were dying, my mom and dad had to take time off work and sometimes leave without pay in order to spend the last moments of their lives with them.

Anyways . . .

Barack Obama's stand:

Expand the Family and Medical Leave Act: The FMLA covers only certain employees of employers with 50 or more employees. Obama will expand it to cover businesses with 25 or more employees. He will expand the FMLA to cover more purposes as well, including allowing workers to take leave for elder care needs; allowing parents up to 24 hours of leave each year to participate in their children's academic activities; and expanding FMLA to cover leave for employees to address domestic violence.

John McCain's stand:

I searched his web site and I couldn't find any thing about it. Apparently, he doesn't care about it.

I guess you can guess who I agree with.

The Recidivism of Criminals

2008-08-23T15:09:00.004-06:00

In my effort to be politically involved during this election year, I will be presenting a variety of issues that affect me and my life and present how each presidential candidate views these issues.

Issue 1: The recidivism of criminals

This is important to me because I work with students who are criminals and who, once they are released from the system, tend to go back to the life they once knew. It is incredibly depressing for me. Once they turn 18, they are left to be on their own. A former student of mine is trying really hard to live a good life, but he has no support - his proctor parents are gone and don't care to help him anymore because they don't get paid, he doesn't get mental health care and can't afford to buy his depression medication, and he knows that he can't go home because he will start using drugs again (like his mom does). He is working hard, but it is killing him. He may be 18, but he needs continued support.

Barack Obama's stand:

Reduce Crime Recidivism by Providing Ex-Offender Supports: Obama will work to ensure that ex-offenders have access to job training, substance abuse and mental health counseling, and employment opportunities. Obama will also create a prison-to-work incentive program and reduce barriers to employment.

John McCain's stand:

Instead, McCain repeated his belief that gang members "need mentors. I think they need role models" and related a story about a program run by a Baptist college in Arkansas. "We've got to have mentors."

"We've also got to give them an opportunity and a path and away out," he added. "Some of these gangs have now become almost international . . . incarceration has sometimes made them worse criminals when they get out than they are when they went in." . . .

____________________________
While I am impressed that McCain has even thought about giving these kids mentors, he doesn't have a plan. I am a mentor for a student, actually all of our alumni, but it isn't enough. I like that Barack Obama actually has a plan for other kinds of support like job training, counseling, and prison-to-work incentive programs. My students know that once they get out they will be ostracized from the community, will have no where to go except back to drugs, gangs, and violence. On this issue, my vote goes to . . . . Barack Obama.

Henry Poole Is Here

2008-08-20T22:05:00.003-06:00

For a "Girls Night" out with some girls from the ward, we went to see Henry Poole is Here. I liked the movie, but it was definitely an independent film. Luke Wilson plays a man who thinks he is going to die. Then, on the side of his house a miraculous religious image appears and people begin to be healed. However, he just can't bring himself to have the faith to simply touch the wall. It reminded me of the bible story where the Israelites are plagued by snakes while wandering in the wilderness and all they have to do it look at Moses' staff and be healed, but some of them just won't do it. It is sad and yet, faith sometimes is really simple, but we just won't "do" it. Anyways, . . . I think the movie is worth seeing at least once.

Also, I really liked the soundtrack. Below is a few songs from the movie. Enjoy.
(If the play won't load, click on Pop Out Player.

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Twilight the Movie News!

2008-08-16T09:39:00.001-06:00

I woke up today with exciting news - read below. This is from Stephenie Meyer's website: www.stepheniemeyer.com

You will notice the new widget!

August 15, 2008

Movie News Flash!

So, many of you have heard that the release of the sixth Harry Potter movie, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, has been moved from this Thanksgiving to next summer. First and foremost, please know that this schedule change has absolutely nothing to do with Twilight, me, or Summit Films (so enough with the imdb death wishes, okay?). This is Warner Bros. decision, and it was not motivated by anything Twilight-related.

Now for the good news! Though we're all sad to have to wait for Harry Potter, this open spot at the theater creates a cool opportunity. The good people at Summit were thrilled to let me know that now Twilight fans are going to get their movie three weeks earlier than scheduled. That's right—Twilight will be released in theaters November 21st! Let the merry-making commence!

--Stephenie

My Classroom

2008-08-15T13:58:00.012-06:00

School starts on Monday for me. I am excited and also sad. Excited to be working again, and sad to be working again. (Confusing? Just a little). You could say that I am "conflicted" in my emotions. I realized that no one has ever seen my classroom and since I live here 8-10 hours a day it is a big part of my life. So, here are some pictures.

My classroom door with my name! It is official.

All my first day copies.

View from in my classroom looking out to the hall. I love that quote above my door - "The most difficult climbs are the most rewarding." And I believe it!

My reading strategies above my bulletin board. We are going to read Small Steps the sequal to Holes.

My messy desk area. Yes, it is like my room, but I know where everything is. I post a lot of personal stuff behind my desk. Below is a close-up of my desk.

View from the door into the class.

My view (as the teacher) from the board looking at my class.

My book shelf.

As you can see, my classroom is small. I have 12 desks and 12 computers. This year I am teaching Media Tech (where students learn to film and edit movies), Computers (Microsoft Office, html, web design, and a little animation), and 2 English classes. I am comfortable and don't have those jitters I had my first two years of teaching.

Things People Say - 5

2008-08-13T22:34:00.004-06:00

While watching they Olympics synchronized diving:

Me - "I like how they have the flag on the side of their speedos."

Mandy - "I think they should have it in the front."

Now that would draw some attention!

Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

2008-08-13T22:00:00.002-06:00

So, a bunch of girls and I went to see Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. It was silly, a little sentimental, and full of girl drama - I loved it!!! This is us in our favorite pants. Not all of us are in this picture, but we had a lot of fun and you can see it in our faces.

Things People Say - 3

2008-08-11T19:33:00.004-06:00

While playing a game of "Loaded Questions" or as we call it, Expose Yourself:

If you could be a superhero, who would it be?

"Wonder Woman. Those legs! Those boobs!"

(Okay, I said that. When I was little, I loved Wonder Woman. She was a tall, brunette like me and I wanted to be just like her.)

Things People Say - 4

2008-08-06T17:13:00.005-06:00

"It would be nice to have a lot of gas."

Really? Maybe if you like the taste of Tums.

I did it, I really did it!!!

2008-08-06T15:27:00.003-06:00

Today I signed a reservation and put a deposit on the condo I think I am going to buy. It was a big step for me. I hyperventilated a little on the way over to meet with the Realtor. It is just a deposit and once they "nail down" the price, then I can either go forward, sign a purchase agreement and the deposit goes toward my earnest money down, or I can get the deposit back and walk away. EEEKKK!!! I'm freaking out a little, but that is okay, this is a good thing. To see the condo's click here.

Happy Birthday Louis!

2008-08-03T23:38:00.004-06:00

Many of you know I go to Mandy's house for dinner every Sunday and they are like family to me. Well, tonight was Louis's 23rd Birthday!!! Yea!!! Happy Birthday - Louie!

The birthday boy! (He wouldn't let me take anything better, humph!)

Louis's cake. Yes, it says, "Happy BIRDAY LOVIS" I loved it! It is a De Leche cake from a Mexican store - priceless!

Breaking Dawn Release!

2008-08-03T23:37:00.004-06:00

Okay, Okay, I did it. I went to the midnight release of Breaking Dawn while I was on vacation in St. George. It was quite an experience - I had never done that before. We were at the theater and got to the store at 11:45 pm, got our wristbands, and waited in like until 1:15 am until we got to buy our copies. I had the book read by 6pm the next day (no surprise there).

Teresa and I waiting. She was such a good sport.

This is only half the crowd.

The bouncer at the door - I'm not kidding.

I wish I could have taken pictures of all the homemade shirts people had on, but that is a little weird. But my favorite said this: "Who needs a diamond when your boyfriend sparkles." I love it!

Tuacahn

2008-08-03T23:32:00.003-06:00

Teresa and I went to see Sound of Music and Les Miserables at Tuacahn Theater in St. George, Utah. Both were good, but I was dissapointed because they didn't do the rotating stage for Les Miserables. However, I actually understood the words to Les Mis this time (last time I saw it in London) and so I did like it better. However it is not one of my favorites.

It was so warm there - a balmy 102 and 104 degrees (AT 9:00 PM!!!) that Teresa and I brought fans, spray bottles, ice packs, and frozen water - and we still roasted! I can't wait for winter!

Shakespearean Festival

2008-08-03T23:22:00.003-06:00

This past week, my friend Teresa and I went to the Shakespearean Festival in Ceder City. Can you believe that I have never been before?!? A travesty to English teachers everywhere. While there we went to see Fiddler on the Roof and Taming of the Shrew. Yes, Fiddler is not from Shakespeare, but they always do non-Shakespearean plays as well. We also saw Taming of the Shrew. It was really good. It was set in post WWII Italy, but they spoke in the original Shakespearean verse. I loved it!

Me and Will.

In a replica of the Globe Theater.

The benches all had scenes from Shakespeare's plays. I loved it!

We went to see Fiddler on the Roof. Okay, not Shakespeare, but I loved it. This paining was in the lobby and was amazing. I love that he carries everything on his back.

The painting for Taming of the Shrew.

Twin Falls Temple Open House

2008-08-03T23:08:00.005-06:00

My extended family and I went to the open house at the Twin Falls Temple. It was really nice. Afterward we had a picnic at ShoShone Falls.

Twin Falls Temple

My cute grandparents!

All of my grandmother's daughters: my aunt Betty, Grandma, Aunt Robin, and my MOM!

ShoShone Falls

Some of my cousins: Courtney, Chelzee, Zach, Cody

My cousin Cody, me, and Zach.

Things People Say - 2

2008-08-03T23:05:00.002-06:00

So, while I was at Tuacahn watching a play the lady behind me said this to her daughter:

~"Look at the bats flying in the lights. Be careful they might dive-bomb you!"
~Daughter yelps.
~"Oh, don't worry they just like the lights. They are attracted to them."

Really? I don't think bats dive-bomb or are anything like moths.

Zach, Zach, the Pyromaniac

2008-08-03T22:56:00.004-06:00

This past week I spent a few days in Malta, Idaho (population 200), with my grandparents, mother, and extended family. One night my uncle was sitting and chatting with my grandparents when a lot of cars started passing the house, going down the lane, to his house. He said, "Why are all those people going to my house? Oh, yeah. Zach is doing Sobe Bombs tonight." "WHAT!?!" So I had to go check it out. I won't tell you how to make them but just watch the video. Yes, that is a fire bomb next to a tree and right by a field. I won't tell you how to make them, but enjoy. Needless to say, this city-girl was flabergasted!

My cousin Cody, a propane tank, and I think a flame thrower. Need I say more?

Zach, marveling at his masterpiece.

If you look close you can see the Sobe bottle.

Bowl of Melon

2008-07-26T11:52:00.003-06:00

I've been working on some poems that all have to do about being a single woman in her late 20s. The idea is that they could all be published into a book titled: Poetry for the Single Gal. It isn't pity me type of poetry, so don't worry. It is meant to be funny.

Bowl of Melon

On my lap, a bowl of cantaloupe and honeydew
Gone soft, the juices marinating for days.
Will be rotten if I don’t eat it soon.
So, here I sit watching A Lot Like Love
At eleven pm on a Wednesday night
With a bowl of melon on my lap
Slowly choosing the firmest of all the soft pieces
That will eventually be thrown away
Because who can eat an entire
Bowl of melon by themselves?

Edited Pictures

2008-07-25T20:16:00.007-06:00

For a while I have been wanting to edit some of the pictures I have taken while on vacations. So, below are some of the pictures and I have edited them. Enjoy!

Berlin, Parliament Building

Carnival Cruise Ship, Caribbean

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Rome, near the Trevi Fountain

Florence, Replica of the David

St. John, Caribbean

Amsterdam, Handmade Clogs

Berlin, Monument to the Unknown Soldier

London, Buckingham Palace Gate

London, Regent Park

Amsterdam

Berlin Wall

Berlin, Brandenburg Gate

Things People Say

2008-07-23T19:10:00.002-06:00

So, I am going to start a new series of posts about crazy things I hear people say. I got this idea from one of Mandy's friends blog. I am going to use a label so that you can click on it and see all of the "Things People Say" posts. Right now I will only have one, but hopefully in the future I will have more.

So, today I went to lunch at Chilies. The manager came up to me and said:

"How ya doin' there kiddo?" (Which is funny because of 'kiddo')

Then from the kitchen I hear, "You should shut your mouth before I clean out all your teeth."

Welcome to Chilies!

Clean, Clean, Clean

2008-07-22T13:54:00.005-06:00

So, since I am off work this week, I have a long to-do list. One of the things I needed to do was do a deep down clean of my room. I tend to be a "clutter-bug" and like to have lots and lots of things around me. So, I cleaned out my area of the storage room, got rid of some stuff, and de-junked my room. It was either moved down to the storage or thrown away. Here are some pics of my fabulous end product.

This is one of my clutter corners, clutter free!

What is significant about this picture is that you can see my dresser and that I can open all of my drawers.

Everything got dusted and vacuumed. Including under the bed and the closet and the blinds.

I wonder how long it will last? Good thing I'm going to be gone next week. ;-)

Hillarious and True Video - Thanks Dad for Sharing

2008-07-18T08:20:00.003-06:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Looking at Buying

2008-07-17T12:39:00.004-06:00

So I have been looking around at buying a home. And when I say home, I mean condo or townhouse. This is because I am single (who doesn't need or want a big house), I don't want to do yard work, and let's face it - I'm a teacher and don't make enough to own a house, house.

Anyways . . .
I have fallen in love with this condo that will be built by the District (114th South and Bangerter Hwy.). It is a little smaller than I would like, but I think it will be a great location, view, and style. It is modern and trendy. Plus it comes with a lot of nice features. Here are some pictures.

Stainless steel appliances and gas stove.

All of the plans have nice big windows like these.

The view! The new Oquirrh Mountain LDS Temple.

The floor plan. I like that it has a "great room" style even though it is just a condo. And it still has the master bath suite. It is on the 2nd floor, so my garage is down a level, but there isn't anyone above me. And it has a little balcony off the dining room. Yes, it is only a 1 car garage, but I only have 1 car, so no problems.

This is how they are supposed to look on the outside. Mine would be the orange one on the far right. I want a corner unit.

They haven't built them yet, but I can make my reservation for it in January. I don't know if this is really going to be where I will buy, but for now it is the best I have seen (and I have seen quite a few properties in Salt Lake and Utah counties). I'm starting to get excited! Maybe I will own a house by the time I'm 30!

Pet Peeves

2008-07-10T12:35:00.006-06:00

So, we all have some pet peeves and so I thought I would share some of mine. No worries - if you do these, I will still be your friend.

People who "coast" to the stoplight.
When I text, email, or call someone and they don't return the text, email, or call. This is especially frustrating when I asked a question and need to know the answer.
When people assume that I want to be around teenagers all the time just because I am a teacher.
When people are in the fast lane and go the same speed and the person in the middle lane. You are supposed to go faster.
Meetings that are pointless or when nothing is decided.
Being put on hold.
When people won't commit to doing something with you in case "something better" comes along. Please - what could be better than doing something with me?
When my students say words like "pluck" or "funk" and think that it is still okay because they "aren't really swearing."
When I'm in the drive-thru and someone in front of me orders enough food for 15 people (can't you just see them passing over trays and trays of drinks).
Having someone I don't know (or remember) ask to be my friend on facebook. You know it is because they just want to have lots of friends.
Having my boss just tell me to do a project anyway I want, but then I know when I finish he won't like the finished product because it isn't the way he would have done it. My boss is a huge perfectionist.
Mumblers!
People who click their pens over and over and over and over and over and over (I think you get the idea) and over and over and over . . . .
I think I heard this quote somewhere (usually by an apostle and at conference) . . .
When people (other than my boyfriend) touch my hair. I am actually a really touchy person, but when it come to my hair I am not. And when that boyfriend is touching my hair he better be about to kiss me or in the process of kissing me. The kiss makes up for the hair touching.
When people don't just tell it like it is. I am a fairly blunt person and so I would rather have the whole truth than just part of the truth.
When my mother does dishes while I am talking to her on the phone (sorry Mom, but I just can't here you over the water and clanking dishes).
When my desks aren't straight.

Well, that is that. I can't think of any more, but I'm sure there are more. If you post comments, please post some of your pet peeves!

The Wonders of Amazon

2008-07-07T20:43:00.002-06:00

So, I decided to put some movies and books (since I have a ton!) on Amazon.com to sell them. I started posting around 5 pm today and by 6:30 I had sold 2 items, then by 8:30 pm 2 more items. Wow! It took four hours to make $100 (about). Now I understand why people do this for a living. It has me thinking . . .

Saturday Activities

2008-07-05T13:21:00.005-06:00

So, since all my roommates are off traveling the world, I am here in Riverton taking care of all their stuff. So, on Saturday I did two special things:

1. While cleaning Alina's turtles' tub, I thought they might enjoy some time in the "deep" water of the bathtub. So for a few hours they got to play or just sit to their hearts content. Now don't worry about it being too deep and our tub is slanted, so they could go to the shallow end if they wanted to. Click here to read more about Pedro and Ming.

Ming is on the left and Pedro on the right.

2. I have been in charge of Mandy's flowers. Well, they are not really made to be in the sun, so I moved them to the backyard where it is shady. Well, our front porch looked lonely, so I bought some flowers that are supposed to do well in the sun. Yes, I got my hands dirty (I hate that!).

I was driving by and those red flowers caught my eye and I had to have them.

I hate Taco Bell!!!

2008-07-01T22:48:00.002-06:00

So, I wanted to do a post tonight about a really cool meditation exercise I did, but I am so upset that I need to vent.

So, tonight I was meeting a friend for a movie at 8:00pm. I had just finished water aerobics and was going to hurry and get some dinner and then change my clothes and head to the theater. Well . . .

1. I sat in line at the Taco Bell drive-thru for 7 minutes and I didn't even get to order. I was planning on backing out of line and just going home, but a guy pulled up behind me. And this particular drive thru is the kind where, once you are in, you are trapped. So, I'm trapped.

2. I finally get to order and the stupid intercom doesn't work. I say three times "I want a large diet pepsi and two baja chicken chalupa's." I still never heard the kid clearly, but he gave me a total that sounded about right.

3. I finally get to the window. He hands me my bag, which I don't check right away because I am too busy writing down the "call us" numbers to give my unsatisfactory report. I have now been in line for about 25 minutes. Yes, 25 minutes. You would think they were hand making those tortillas or something.

4. Then the kid says to me after I stare at him for a minute waiting for my drink, "Oh, what kind of drink was that?" I say, "Diet Pepsi." He makes my drink and then stands there talking to another teenage girl drinking a soda. And yes, she is an employee as well. He finally hands me my drink without looking at me really because he is still talking. I finally interrupt him to tell him that I need a straw.

5. I pull away and start to get my food out because by this time I am really late and will have to eat in car. Yeah, he gave me a beef gordita. Does beef gordita sound like two baja chicken chalupas - NO! So now I am late and stuck with something I don't even like!

Like I said, I hate Taco Bell and don't plan on going back to that particular one ever again.

Oh, and on my receipt it had a phone number to call and give a survey. I might win $1000! Yippee (sarcastic).

ps - my receipt didn't say anything I ordered, either. It said a chicken taco something.

Let the pampering begin . . .

2008-06-30T23:24:00.002-06:00

So after three horrible weeks teaching summer school, I get a week off. Yea!!! So I decided to give myself a little treat and a bit of a makeover.

Monday: Got a pedicure and French Tip Acrylic nails. Now I have had long nails, but never acrylic. I have always wanted them, but have yet to actually get them. As of right now, I think I like them. They sure are fancy, which led to the things below.

Tuesday: One hour sweedish massage. Oh, Yeah!

Wednesday: Finally breaking down, using my vision insurance I have been paying for two years and getting glasses. Many of you may not know that I didn't pass my vision test a few years ago and really should not drive without classes. Ooops! Well, I am going to fix this.

I am also going to cut my hair into a style (shocking!). I called to get an appointment, but they never called back. Humph! But, no worries, it will still be long enough for me to do my signature "up-do" aka ponytail or half ponytail.

I am also going to dye my hair a darker brown. See appointment reason above.

I also decided to use my insurance and start going to a chiropractor. If you know of a good one in the area - let me know.

Once my transformation is complete, I will post before and after photo's like they do on day-time TV. Stay tuned . . . .

I Heart the Old Testament

2008-06-22T21:41:00.005-06:00

I recently signed up for a scripture reading service called Read the Scriptures. What happens is that you sign up to read the scriptures or lessons and set up a reading schedule. Then they email you the reading for that day or week. You read it, press complete and the next day they email you more. You can also read it online, take notes, and highlight your own personal, digital copy of the scriptures.

Well, I signed up to read the standard words: Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price in one year. So I am starting with the Bible - Old Testament. Now I have always loved the Old Testament, but now I am learning more and gaining new insights. And I thought I might share some of them, in case you want to love the Old Testament, like I do! (You can click on any of the links below to read the scriptures I mention.)

Reread the account of the creation - Genesis 1. Look at how many times it uses the word "light" - 10 to be exact. It struck me as significant. Here are some scriptures to consider: Psalms 27:1, Isaiah 2:5, Daniel 5:14, Matthew 5:16, John 1:5, John 8:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:5, Mosiah 16:9, and D&C 88:40.
I don't know why people wonder if there is life out there in our big universe - Genesis 2:1.
Compare Adam and Cain. How did each respond to the Lord after they had sinned. Adam - Genesis 3:10 Cain - Genesis 4:9
Genesis 4:15 - The mark wasn't a curse, it was protection. So this whole racial issue of being a descendant of Cain is a bunch of bull (pardon my French). Even after what Cain did, the Lord wanted to protect him . . . interesting.
Men didn't begin to call upon the Lord in prayer until Enos (see Genesis 5:26). Why? Maybe because the Lord walked and talked with men before this.
Rainbow and rain. God promises Noah he will not flood the earth and that the rainbow will be a remembrance of that promise (Genesis 9: 8-17). The next time it rains or I see a rainbow I will remember God and how much he loves me.
Abraham and Adam both hearkened unto their wives (Genesis 3:6, 16:2). Hmmmm. I've decided both cases were good.
Genesis 17. Abraham receives the Everlasting Covenant or Abrahamic Covenant. So does Sarah. In fact, she receives an equal portion, same blessings. And so many people wonder if the Lord views men and women as equals. Yes, He does.
One of my favorite scriptures: Genesis 18:14 - "Is any thing too hard for the Lord?" No. So why do we question?
If you want to know why drinking is a bad thing see Genesis 19: 30-36. Ick!

I am only to chapter 20, but look at all I have learned or gained new insight on (and this isn't all of it). So, try reading the Old Testament. I promise that the gospel and the Spirit are there waiting for you.

2008-06-14T17:30:00.003-06:00

Mandy, Christi, and I went to the Scottish Festival and Games at Thanksgiving Point today. It was really nice, but hot and we came home exhausted. There were bagpipes, kilts, dancing, and all sorts of "Scottish" things. I loved it!

A Scot and two non-Scots.

Beautiful bagpipers.

We got floral wreaths for our hair with long strands of ribbon. We loved them.

And I got a henna tattoo. Scottish - no, but I love it. I've always wanted one.

Summer School Field Trip

2008-06-13T22:41:00.005-06:00

Today, we went on a field trip for summer school. In general, the kids were extremely hyper and out of control. You would think that they had never been on a field trip.

The first place we went to was Kennecott Copper Mine. I have always loved the copper mine. I loved looking at the mine. My dad and grandpa both worked for the mine. Even though I have been there before, I loved going again.

View from Bangerter Highway.

The machines (worth millions of dollars) moving millions of tons of dirt.

The second place we went was The Living Planet Aquarium. The kids really like this. I think it is because they got to stick their hand in the tank and "pet" stingrays. I showed them the pictures from my cruise and they got really excited to do it themselves. It was cool to see them get so excited.

Sharks, duh.

The third place we went to was the Woodbury Art Museum - Da Vinci Experience. They had models of Da Vinci's inventions. Below we made a bridge out of sticks. It was really strong and we could walk across it, but the wood was really light. There are no tools needed or nails.

Some of Da Vinci's flying machines.

Speed Racer

2008-06-12T21:29:00.002-06:00

Mandy and I went to go see Speed Racer today. I didn't know much about it or the cartoon, but wanted to see it because Mandy was so excited about it. I really liked it! No, in fact I loved it! It was visually stunning (as you will see from the trailer). I loved that it was "real" people, but it felt like a Japanese anime cartoon. It was cheesy and sweet. There was violence and jokes for adults, but you can tell it was made for young boys. I guess I am young at heart because I really loved it! At the end I felt all warm and fuzzy and happy. It was wonderful!

This is the movie trailer.

Here is a sample of the original cartoon. Mandy has the first season and you can bet that I will be watching it.

Searching our Waterfalls in Washington

2008-06-11T17:37:00.004-06:00

So, my dad and I are geeks and had to use our GPS units in a competition to see whose was best. He won, but that is okay, my GPS is only on my phone. We went into the woods above our house in Washington. Here is what we found.

Dougan Falls

Naked Falls

Salmon Falls

A tree covered in moss - as almost all trees are in Washington. It is beautiful, but the moss actually kills the trees. :-(

My New Cruiser!

2008-05-27T21:12:00.003-06:00

Those of you who know me, also know that I hate bikes. But I decided to get one - huh? Every time I got on one as a child I fell and hurt myself. All my biggest scars are from a bike fall. I even almost got hit by a car once. (I still blame that on my brother and his crazy bike riding skills). Mandy and I went bike shopping on Memorial Day. I found this one speed beach cruiser at K-Mart. I never shop there, but it was nice testing it out as I drove around the empty store. I have had it 2 days and have ridden it twice. Tonight I returned my books at the library. My rack on the back works great! I am loving this bike. I like the thought that I can get out every night and get a little bit of exercise. But, I don't plan on being a professional bike rider like my roommate Alina and friend Sara. No, just neighborhood riding for me.

My new blue beach cruiser bike!

An action shot.

Zambia's Scholarship Fund

2008-05-05T20:52:00.004-06:00

Lately, I have been learning a lot about how much I really have in my life. I have been considering joining the peace corps and teaching oversees. Today, in staff meeting we were introduced to Zambia's Scholarship Fund. My principal has connections and once he is retired he is considering spending his time helping this non-profit organization. I feel like there is so much that we can do to help. And as a teacher, I think that education is the key to the future of our world and that every child deserves to receive an education if they want it. (Go ahead, call me a socialist, I don't mind.) I decided to sponsor a child - it is only $20 a month. I like that 100% of the money goes to the people in charity. It was also started by a local woman, from Brigham City. So, please take some time to watch these three videos. If you want to know more visit Zambia's Scholarship Fund's website and see what you can do to help. Normally, I wouldn't tell anyone that I sponsored a child, but I think that there are a lot of people, like me, who can help, even just one student.

Happy May Day!

2008-05-01T14:28:00.003-06:00

So, when I was in the fourth grade we had a huge May Day festival. I don't remember much about it, except that we danced around a may pole. For weeks and weeks the entire fourth grade practiced learning these complex dance patterns. You see, you hold onto a ribbon that is attached to the pole. You weave in and out, skip sometimes one, two, or three people, go backwards and forwards, and change speed to change how the tight the weaving is, or go further away from the pole or closer to the pole. Well, after weeks of practicing, we performed for all of our parents. I don't know where May Day comes from, or the traditions, but I really don't care. I love May Day and every May 1st I think about dancing around the May Pole. If you ever get the chance to do it, my advice is to put on a long, full skirt, put a flower in your hair, and don't wear any shoes, and dance your heart away. You will feel young and free. It is wonderful!

I Heart Jewels! (part 2)

2008-04-29T08:57:00.005-06:00

So, Mandy and I had our Lia Sophia Jewelry party. It was really sucessful. We shared the love of jewels with others and they are falling in love with Lia Sophia, like we did! Below are some pictures of the jewelry I got for hosting the party! This isn't all of the piece, but without my list I couldn't remember them all. (Isn't that great?!?)

More Pictures

2008-04-28T20:48:00.001-06:00

We stayed at the Sheraton Hotel in San Juan after the cruise. And let me just say, it is the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in! I loved the pillows too!

These are our table friends from the cruise, Hazel and Poonum. People usually hate the fact that cruises force you to eat dinner with strangers, but all the girls on our table were single 20 somethings. It was great!

Stupid boat drills! Really, if the ship is sinking, we are not going to remember what we learned in the drill. I spent most of the time bumping Teresa with my huge life jacket.

We really were in paradise!

On the beach. I loved it! Look at that white sand and blue water.

I loved the towel animals!

I really missed my diet Pepsi. This was the first in 7 days. I felt like I was a spokes model for a Diet Pepsi ad.

Awesome Twilight Movies

2008-04-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

So, I had to post this movie from MTV about Twilight, the movie. It is coming out December 12, 2008 - three days earlier than I thought - Yes! It is an awesome movie. If you want to see the other three clips because you love Twilight, like I do, click here. (Click on the three other boxes below the video screen.)