Cara

Awkward!!!

2012-01-28T21:25:00.002-05:00

Sometimes, I just have to laugh. If not, I am not sure how I would get through life most days :)

This past Thursday evening, was one of those times... partly because I can't believe I am still in the single dating world!

I was on what would technically be defined as a "date" with someone whom I would say I have an interest in. We attended an AMAZING production at Georgetown University.

It's a music and dance production by children from Uganda (ages 10-18). They practice for months to come and share Uganda's and East Africa's vibrant culture with America. They are here for almost 2 months and many of them have never been on a plane, never seen the snow or the ocean, etc., so this opportunity is truly amazing for them.

On a side note: I read some of the brochure before the show started. Many of these children have lost both parents, and siblings to AIDS or other illness. They have overcome amazing obstacles. And, yet, they are filled with HOPE, SMILES, and JOY. It made me really think about all the blessings I have in my life and how much I truly take for granted. I was touched by their stories and inspired and uplifted by their smiles and their zest for life!

Below is one picture from their blog. You should check it out to see others... and they're still on tour for the next month so maybe they're coming to a town near you! http://touroflight.blogspot.com/

On average they do two, maybe three shows a day. (school children during the day) They all have amazing voices, and both the girls and the guys are BUFF. Honestly. I was in awe of the way they move their bodies (and how quickly!) as well as how fast their hands beat those drums. OH -MY-WORD!! It was an amazing experience!

Back to my story. During the production, there was one male individual who kind of provided us with verbal entertainment and explanation about each dance before it began. He had a heavy Ugandan accent, but he was fun and interesting to listen to. He liked to joke around with the audience and I appreciated that.

Well, before one song he started talking about how we should tell each other more often how much we love and appreciate them. His point was that in America we don't express our feelings enough to others. he had a valid point. But, he went on to tell the audience that everyone had to turn to their neighbor and while looking them in the eye, tell them that they LOVE them! Ha, ha!!! My "date" and I were sitting next to each other, but nobody was on either side of us, so we couldn't even joke and say it to some stranger. And then the performer repeated it a few times in order to get his point across and make sure everyone was doing it!

IT WAS THE LONGEST 45 SECONDS OF MY LIFE

It felt like 5 minutes, but I know it wasn't that long. Everyone else was doing it to their friends or significant others... or there were kids sitting next to kids and they thought it was funny. But I just could not bring myself to do it... and I don't blame him for not doing it either. I just laughed and looked around to the other side of me because I couldn't even look at him while it was going on. UGH! Of course, I would have loved to have been at that "comfort" spot in our relationship where I could have said it - even jokingly - but yep - not there yet!

So, ha, ha... just had to laugh and hope that at some point in my life, this can happen again and it won't be

AWKWARD!

Profound Thoughts from Steve Job

2012-01-16T19:16:00.002-05:00

This post is a while in the making. A while ago I ran across a speech he gave at Stamford and I found his thoughts to have a profound effect on me. He puts is out there in such a down-to-earth, straight forward manner. I love it!

Quote 1: "I didn't see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could have ever happened to me."

There have been a few times in my life when I have experienced some true disappointments in my life. Whether it be making a sports team, being accepted in to a program, or being offered a job... to mention a few. Each time, when I am in the moment of the disappointment, I often question HF and tell him... 'This is a good thing I wanted... why didn't I get it!!!" I am frustrated... mostly because I lack faith and let doubt enter my mind that HF is aware of me and what's best for me.

HOWEVER, looking back, in each instance I can remember this happening, something better has come along, or I have been able to see WHY that would not have been a good option for me. Just like for Steve Jobs. ... Wish I could have that insight and faith from the moment it actually happens!

Quote 2: "It was awful tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle."

I love this quote. Simply because this is what I have been struggling with for the past 6 months or so. I haven't found yet what I love. OK - no that's wrong. I know WHAT my heart really wants to do, but that requires me being married. So, I've been on a search for what I could love in 2nd place. I've realized that elementary school counseling is not really my "LOVE". Yes, I can do it. Yes, I love some of the perks of being a teacher.

BUT, my heart just isn't there to have the passion to really put for 100% every day.

I don't regret going to get my MEd. I am glad I did what I did and where it has led me. I also feel like I learned many things I can apply to my life in general and the work I am doing now... but I also know that my current position is not my career goal. It's just a "layover" to my next destination.

BUT, WHAT? Oh - I have so many ideas of things I think would be "fun", but am I really going to LOVE it?!! I am not getting any younger... and don't want to settle on getting more education to then get a job that I am waking up eventually saying, "Not another day!" I envy those that knew what they wanted to do from when they were in high school! That has not been the case for me. So, as Steve suggests... I am going to keep looking!!

Quote 3: "When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something."

Yep - Definitely have felt that in my life at times. I think there's something to say for making the best of the situation you're in. And, there are certain things I don't have control over... but if I do... GOSH darn it! I need to have more courage to change it and NOT get stuck in a rut that I have been at times in my life.

Quote 4: "Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life."

This means FAITH in my book. Faith and trust. That's what I am still working on....

Sometimes I just have to laugh

2012-01-08T14:37:00.000-05:00

This weekend, the parents of the kids I nanny for are out of town, so I've had them for the past 24 hours. A little bit more exhausting when I have them ALL day and they're not in school for at least part of it :)

But, anyway. Last night as we sat down to our elegant dinner of pizza and frozen veggies heated in the microwave, the 6 year old girl looked at me and said, "Can I ask you a question." "Sure!", I responded.

"When are you going to get married?"

Ha, ha! I've been asked this by kids before, so I just smiled and said. "I don't know. I haven't met my future husband yet, or maybe I have, and I just don't know it! Do you have anyone in mind?"

She looked at me very seriously and said all the guys she knew were too young for me to marry, but she did have some advice. She then proceeded to do a role play with me of how I should go up and approach random guys that I thought were cute... introduce myself to them... and then ask them if they'd like to go on a date with me. Ha!!! Only if it were that simple. We did this as she gave a few different scenarios of where I might be and meet new guys at the same time... grocery store, out running on the sidewalk, in a movie theater. It was quite funny, but she actually had a few good points for being 6 years old. I'll have to think more about it.

But, THEN! This morning about ten minutes before we had to leave to go to their Jewish Sunday School, she comes down and grabs this red stamp pad from where the art supplies are. Concerned as to where this was going, she said she was drawing in her room and wanted to stamp a few things. I didn't necessarily like the idea, but agreed knowing we were leaving in a few minutes and how much could go wrong in that time?!! So, I said OK. Two minutes before we needed to be in the car I asked the kids to come down and get their shoes on.

This little girl comes running down the stairs exclaiming that she fell over something in her room and fell right on her eye! I looked at her and tried not to laugh. She had literally taken the red ink and smeared it in a very large circle all around one of her eyes. She started to give me this long story of how she keeps falling and she doesn't know why! Like I needed to take her to the doctor or something (because she had fallen while running in the yard the day before)

What?

Does she think I can't put two and two together?

Is this a plot to get out of going to Sunday School?!!

Slightly annoyed now because of the time, I didn't play along. I said as I grabbed her and walked her to the sink to start scrubbing her face:

"A: You're not crying

B. This red blotch on your face is in a very nice circular pattern

C. You just took the stamp pad upstairs

D. You have Red ink on your hands

E. And, voila! This is all washing off with soap and water.

Get in the car. We're now late. "

I don't even remember how she replied. I pretended to be annoyed and not happy that she made us all late, but on the inside I was cracking up and appreciated her creativity!

What is happening to me?! Something must be VERY wrong!

2012-01-07T17:10:00.003-05:00

On Friday, I had a stressful day at work.

I was tired and worn out.

And, all I wanted to do was go home and

Cook??!!!!

I thought it would help relieve some of my stress.

So, yes. That is how I spent my Friday evening.

What's up with that?! I'm famous for not making anything except if it can be quickly done in the microwave. I've always detested cooking. I just never really had the patience for it (all that measuring, stirring, etc., and thought it was just too time consuming, especially for only one person eating it.

But, since I've been in my new apartment, I've started to invite people over for dinner and I have embraced a little bit of cooking! I still don't make anything extravagant, but I have been impressed with a few of the things I have made!

So, I found a few recipes I wanted to try and went to work. Usually I get most of my recipes online from allrecipes.com, but I found a new website seems to have more simplified ones. It's called sparkrecipies... and most of them are healthy too!

The cooking was fun and did help relieve some of my stress!

Well, this first recipe I found a few months ago and love it, so I make it about once a month (or more!) I love cornbread in general, but this recipe uses biscuit baking mix so it's moist and just tastes yummy!

Then, I've been on a pumpkin kick recently and found a few other recipes I wanted to try in the near future, but I was curious about this recipe and wanted to try it. It's a crustless (or self making crust)... and since I don't like regular pie crust anyway, I just had to try it! It worked!

Then, I also used my crockpot and made this recipe. Another spark recipe. I didn't take a picture, but I give it 4.5 stars and will definitely make it again!

Gosh, I don't know whats happening to me, but my fridge is full! Everything was made pretty quick too... which I loved!

Holland's Blessing

2012-01-01T10:49:00.002-05:00

I wasn't able to be there for her blessing on Christmas day, but I just had to post pictures of this little cutie! She looks so small and tiny in her beautiful dress, but for 4 months she's grown A LOT! Evan and Madison said that she really hated wearing her dress and that she literally cried almost every moment until it was taken off. And, then she cried during the entire blessing as well, since she had the dress on! Hmmm... I wonder if this means she'll be like her aunt in the future and really not like dressing up and wearing dresses!

What a cute family!

2011-12-30T20:40:00.000-05:00

I love the holidays! I love the music, the cheer, the festivities, and the lights! I already posted my pictures of my Christmas tree, which I love. It's a simple tree, but the twinkling lights and simple ornaments make me smile every day.

A few places nearby have an exorbitant amount of lights and I LOVE IT!

My first visit was to the Washington DC Temple. I don't even want to think about how many lights they have there, or how many people/how long it takes to string them... but they are breathtaking! The visitor center also has concerts every night in December and they are fabulous as well. It's a great missionary tool and I am sure the visitor center gets many interested individuals and family's inquiring about the church because of their experience here.

One friend noted to me how the lights around the visitor center are bright and colorful, but as you get closer to the temple they turn to all white. Very fitting and I am sure it was done on purpose! But, I love just driving around the parking lot and taking it all in. It's beautiful!!

My next visit was to see the National Christmas tree on the National Mall. This is my 3rd year in DC and my first visit to see the tree. I also learned that each state and territory has their own tree as well, so I had to come and take a look. It was the perfect evening! I found parking within one minute of looking on the National Mall and the temperature outside was only about 50 degrees! That's my kind of winter weather!!

I love this picture of the National Tree, with the state trees surrounding it and the White House lit up in the background.

There's a National Menorah right next to the tree as well!

The White House.

It's hard to see in the picture, but you can see the trees and lights inside when you look closely. So pretty!

Pennsylvania State Tree!

Then, around the National Tree they had a train exhibit. It reminded me of my childhood. We had a "train room" in my house in PA because my family was so into model trains! I went on many excursions with my family to see model train shows and I would be mesmerized by all the detail in the displays. It's really amazing how they are crafted and built!

A train village!

Me in front of the National Tree!

My final holiday visit (well, the final one I got pictures of... I went to walk around Old Towne but forgot my camera!) I went to the National Harbor across the river. I had been there with my little buddy, Jeremiah, two seasons ago and at that point the village was just being built. But, oh my word... it's grown by leaps and bounds! Stores everywhere, conference centers, hotels.... it's huge now! But, I arrived just in time to walk around and see the sunset as well as their tree!

I love the colors in this tree! It's hard to see, but there is a musical group performing so I wasn't able to get a picture in front of the tree. However, just opposite this tree was a HUGE PEEPS store. Never been in one before. Oh my word - more Marshmallow Peeps than I could EVER imagine! I like eating maybe one or two a year, but wow... they had more Peeps than I could ever imagine!

As the holiday season comes to a close, my heart is filled with gratitude for the blessing it is to take part in the holiday cheer, music, festivities, and lights. But, more than anything, the reminder that we are celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. And that HE is the light, the truth and the way. It is through HIM that we can find comfort and peace, direction and guidance, and that if we seek HIM, we can feel HIS love in our lives all year long.

Little reminders from the Lord in every day happenings

2011-12-26T21:42:00.000-05:00

For me, Christmas this year was different from any other. Or, I should also say, The Christmas Season.

In years past, I've been on top of gift buying and trying to think about the perfect gift for everyone in my family (& myself!). I usually help coordinate it for others in my family as well.

But, this year was different.

My mom's health has been on a slightly rapid decline since the middle to end of October. It's been difficult and heart-breaking on many different levels. So, this holiday season, my thoughts and energy have been mostly directed towards that and keeping my own life running as usual. I have found a lot of hope and strength in holiday music and thinking about Christ. I have made sure I took part in some of the joyous events of the season and embracing as much of the spirit of it as I could, while staying away from the commercial aspect as much as possible.

But, that doesn't mean there were times of personal pity parties. I'll not deny that it is hard to be single during the holidays. It's also been hard for me this season to see my siblings and friends get together with in-laws or their own families and celebrate the holiday. I have fond memories of Christmas past when my family would gather at my grandparents and all my cousins/aunt/uncles would be together. It was so much fun! And, even though numbers have varied over the years, it has always been a time of gathering. For me, Christmas has always been about the people you spend it with... and the more, the merrier!

Well, this year, with my mom's health and her being unable to travel, I knew it would just be me and her for the holiday.... knowing she was so sick...

Then, when she went in to the hospital last week and was then transferred to a hospital about 90 minutes north of our house, I knew that would mean for me waking up on Christmas in a hotel room and spending the day in the hospital. Sadly, I let myself wallow in this for a bit last week... until I was reminded to maybe think of someone else for a change?! Maybe my mom? Imagine that. Thinking of someone else for a change.

Did my mom really want to be in such poor health? Did she want to be the one in a hospital bed on Christmas when she is usually doing all the work to make Christmas special for her children? ABSOLUTELY NOT. So, I worked on an attitude adjustment and tried to make Christmas nice for her. I brought some of our family traditions to her!

It was an enjoyable day. Would I rather have been with family, and not have my mom so sick. YES. But, the Lord reminded me and helped me see that trials can give us strength and new perspective, that it's always better to focus on others, and that Christ is there to help support us when life gets hard. My mom made me laugh and smile yesterday, even though I know the challenges she is facing could bring her to tears at any moment. But, I learned in a new way that Christmas isn't just about the actual day and what you do on that day... it's more about how you live your life, how you treat others, and really just being a disciple of Christ as best you can.

I was also reminded how blessed I was to have always had the day off in order to celebrate the holiday with my family. In the hospital, every one of my mom's doctors came in to see her (even though it was a Sunday and Christmas) and there were many other staff there who were happy to be there helping patients, when their own family members were at home.

Later that night, I was reading "Little Women". (It's the book my book club is reading for January) and I just so happened to read this last night amidst my contemplating the gentle reminders the Lord had given me recently...

(Mrs. March is sharing a story with her 4 girls)

"Once upon a time, there were four girls, who had enough to eat and drink and wear, a good many comforts and pleasures, kind friends and parents who loved them dearly, and yet they were not contented.... (They) were constantly saying, 'If only we had this,' or 'If we could only do that,' quite forgetting how much they already had, and how many things they could actually do. So they asked an old woman what spell they could use to make them happy, and she said, 'When you feel discontented, think over your blessings, and be grateful. ...

Being sensible girls, they decided to try her advice, and soon were surprised to see how well off they were. ... So they agreed to stop complaining, to enjoy the blessings they already possessed, and try to deserve them, lest they should be taken away entirely, instead of increased, and I believe they were never disappointed or sorry that they took the old woman's advice."

Coincidence in my reading that Christmas night? I think not. The Lord had another reminder for me and that is to focus on my blessings... because one day they might be "taken away entirely". I know I have been so blessed and there is no reason for me to have pity parties for myself. I am grateful to the Lord for this reminder, grateful for the things He continues to teach me, and grateful for the opportunity I have to study the life of Christ and try to follow in his footsteps.

Charity is...

2011-12-21T22:09:00.001-05:00

I love this quote:

"True charity is love in action. The need for charity is everywhere....Charity is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting impulse to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others... Life is perfect for none of us. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the pure love of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life. May we recognize that each one is doing her best to deal with the challenges which come her way, and may we strive to do our best to help out."

President Thomas S. Monson

Time with Aunt Cara

2011-12-11T20:47:00.001-05:00

This weekend, or really just Sat & Sunday, my brother and sister in law took the opportunity to go to NYC, so I had the chance to watch Holland while they were gone!

She is now just 3 months old and is the cutest! Her little chubby cheeks and the smiles she gives melt my heart! I tried to capture some of them in the camera while she was doing it, but as soon as the flash went off her eyes got so WIDE and she stopped smiling. I thought it was funny! She probably wondered why I was torturing her with this!

We fared well for the most part. I definitely could not swaddle her just like mom and dad do, or prepare her bottles so there wasn't any air getting in just like they do, but she was patient with me. She got lots of "oohh's and ahh's" when we went to Target together yesterday. And, today in church she continued to get lots of attention since she was one of two babies/toddlers there!

On our way home from church, we had an explosive diaper, so I took this picture while I was washing ALL of her clothes. Babies are messy! She loves the swing that she is in... even though she still doesn't smile when the flash goes off!

Ha ha... love her wide eyes in this one too! It was a fun and slightly eventful 36 hours, but she survived :) I think she was happy to be reunited with mom and dad though... and have things return to normal once again. I am sure she wonders what her crazy aunt was thinking at some points over the past two days! Ha ha... if only she could talk :)

Christmas Decorating... I'm no Martha, but I am proud to be Cara!

2011-12-03T23:25:00.001-05:00

This post will seem very silly to others, esp those who are creative/crafty... but it is a real struggle for me to decorate anything and to be creative in the approach as well! I really want to have my apartment feel like "home"... and to be cute as well!

Even though this looks (and is) very simple, I am very proud of what I was able to accomplish in my new apartment! It's no Martha Stewart, but I think it's cute, and that's all that matters :) ...(and many thanks to my mom who let me raid the decorations in her basement!)

My dining room table

My $20 Target 6" Christmas Tree!

For $20 I can't complain!

And, decorations from the angel tree

I won many, many years ago :)

Merry Christmas!

Be of Good Comfort, Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole

2011-11-29T21:40:00.001-05:00

Lately, I've really been struggling with faith and optimism when things aren't looking so great in my limited view of life (or, my life).

I could never, ever, deny that the church, or the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. Never. I know it is. But, maintaining that peaceful gospel perspective and finding the JOY in today when illnesses, tragedy and unfulfilled righteous hopes/dreams are staring me in the face does not come easy to me.

This past Sunday a good friend suggested that I choose a scripture and memorize it as I study all about it during the week. I took that challenge and found 2. Almost have them memorized...

1. Luke 8:48: "And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace." That is the Savior talking to the woman he just healed. But, I love how he 1. Calls her Daughter; 2. Tells her to be of good comfort (what I seek most); 3. Tells her that her own faith healed her; 4. and to go in Peace (also something I desire). I want to have the faith that this woman does!

2. Doctrine & Covenants 98:1 "Verily I say unto you my friends, fear not, let your hearts be comforted; yea, rejoice evermore, and in everything give thanks". This is Joseph Smith writing to the Saints who are being sorely persecuted. Again, I love how 1. he calls them friends; 2. Tells them to fear not (something I wish I didn't have in my life either); 3. hearts be comforted (what I want!!) 4. to rejoice (have JOY... also what I want to have ALL the time in my life... to feel truly Joyful!) and 5. To Give Thanks (This is something I don't do nearly enough... even if I could just express gratitude for every negative thought.complaint would be a milestone for me!

It's so easy to get down and forget all the GOOD things and all the blessings I do have in my life! Tonight I was around someone who was totally down on her luck in life and almost every comment that came from her was negative. I found it getting me down and wanted to change the subject. But, afterwards I thought about this. And, how much of a difference and optimistic attitude makes on your own life as well as those you surround. And, I challenged myself to be purely optimistic... esp when interacting with someone else. I think it will help my own faith and gospel perspective, as well as those around me.

THEN, to top it off, I was browsing lds.org tonight and came across this video by Elder Nelson:

Men's Hearts Shall Fail Them

What a profound message. No doubt, I would not have been as calm as he was. But, I want to get to that point and not be the screaming young woman.

Earlier this week I ran across this quote and found it also in this video:

"If you have a faith, you can handle difficulties. Knowing that with an eternal perspective all will be well... Remember who you are and know your purpose... Don't demand things that are unreasonable, but demand of yourself improvement...Through the gospel of Jesus Christ, you can find strength in these tumultuous times."

I had already printed out that quote to paste on my fridge so I can see it every day. And, now I have a very nice "mormon message" video to go with it.

Be of good comfort

Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole

Monticello

2011-11-26T22:43:00.001-05:00

I have always wanted to go to Monticello since moving to DC. However, it's about a 2.5 hour drive, so doing it on a Saturday when I am also trying to run errands, etc., just never sounds ideal.

Well, I had some time this week and wanted to stay as far away from the stores on Friday as possible! The weather was ideal! So, off I went.

I actually got there in 2 hours :) It was busy, but I was able to get a ticket for the house tour about 45 minutes after I arrived. I didn't realize Monticello is located at the top of a "mountain" (large hill, really) and the views were incredible! Especially since the leaves on the trees were mostly gone. And, again, it was BEAUTIFUL out. I wished I had brought a book to read and a blanket!

But, back to the tour. It was very informative and well-done. I didn't know that Thomas Jefferson is considered one of the father's of modern architecture! He was very inventive with a lot of the things he did because he hated to waste time and space. The house was beautiful and I admire the way he ran it. He loved having all of his kids and grandkids there. He had a large garden. He loved books and emphasized education in his family. He also succeeded in doing a lot for our country as well. He must have been one busy man, but he was efficient!

The front of the house

A picture of some of his gardens

The back of the house

A compass he built... or something,

but the views were awesome!

I could have spent the whole day there. But, I also wanted to just drive around the countryside a bit and go for a walk along some of the trails. I also visited James Madison's house, but didn't get an official tour. And, then drove through the University of Virginia's campus! It's beautiful as well... and I found out on my tour that it was started by Thomas Jefferson! It's got quite a history!

I am so glad I went. One more item checked off of my DC bucket list!

"Blessings"

2011-11-16T20:04:00.001-05:00

After a particularly rough and discouraging afternoon/evening, I came home and turned on my ipod to my "Sunday music selection" knowing that I needed to hear an uplifting message... and hopefully helping my mood.

I wasn't disappointed.

Almost immediately, the following song came on. It caught me. (click title to watch video)

"Blessings" by Laura Story

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

I can just imagine Heavenly Father longing for me to revert back to my faith (that is so lacking right now) that there is a "larger picture" than what I can see right now, that He really does love us to "give us lesser things", and that the aching in this life will lead me to remember "a greater thirst this world can't satisfy."

Patience and Faith when times get rough are the hardest for me. But, just the fact that I have songs with such a powerful reminder is a "mercy in disguise" for me.

"Did I do that?"

2011-11-13T11:05:00.001-05:00

Ok - I am not one to debate politics... and everyone has their issues with just about every candidate. But, that being said, I am not a huge fan of our current President.

A friend posted this on facebook and I just got a hearty laugh from it! Having grown up watching Family Matters religiously after Full House on Friday nights, I thought this picture was hilarious. Whatever happened to Erkel? I miss the T.G.I.F lineup. Boy Meets World was hilarious as well.

Live... "Like There's No Tomorrow"

2011-11-11T20:20:00.001-05:00

Live... "Like There's No Tomorrow"

Last night I went to see this year's Warren Miler film. I got home way, way, way past my bedtime for a weeknight, but it was TOTALLY worth it! Not only were the scenes and skiers/boarders in this film AMAZING, but the music and overall message were good too!

I saw a couple of these films when I lived in UT and maybe one or two in Boston. This is their 62nd year making one and there's only one place in the entire tri-state area that shows it... on one night only....And, that cinema just happens to be less than 5 min from me! Had to take advantage and I went with a friend who has a similar passion (although he probably has the skills to back it up... whereas I don't!)

Anyway, below are some pictures from the film. They had clips from resorts all around the world, including one from New Zealand. I totally want to go there! Also, in the brochure they give out, there is a full page picture of the Salt Lake Temple amongst advertisements of resorts in SL.

However, I took away more from this film than just excitement for fresh powder. The following are some of the things I learned... and felt related to my life, or life in general!

1. I noticed how each skier spotlighted in this film had a PASSION for what they did and life in general. They lived for the opportunity to be in nature and test their skills... to the extreme. But, each day was a new day. The past was behind them and they just looked forward to what was in front of them.

2. They didn't sit around waiting for the perfect ski conditions to get out there. They just made sure they were prepared for the elements and went for it!

3. They didn't say... Oh - tomorrow I'll ski. Or put off for a day what they could do today.

4 They relied on at least one other to go skiing with. They knew they couldn't go alone and they all supported and encouraged one another.

5. They lived with NO REGRETS and took advantage of everything they could.

6. They were HAPPY! They love what they do and could care less what anyone else thought of them. I thought it was so funny that many of the skiers knew in high school or college that they just COULD NOT have a desk job. I wanted to stand up and clap when I heard that because that is ME! For a while now I've struggled with what to do with my life. I can't sit behind a desk all day... but extreme skiing is not really where I think I should go! But, it was so nice to hear someone verbalize that it's OK to not want to sit behind a desk all day in order to be a productive member of society and enjoy life!

7. One skier said: "I don't know if there is anywhere in the world better to be, than to be here right now." Awesome! I wish I could say that more often than not... even if it's just here in VA or DC. Just enjoying where I am in the moment no matter where that is!

Overall, I could relate each one of these points to my own life. Being HAPPY no matter what the circumstances are. Being content with where I am right now, but willing to push myself... even if just a little bit. Living with no regrets... no more "if" I had done this or that. Relying on others for help and support is OK... we're not meant to face this world and its challenges alone. Not procrastinating what I can accomplish today.... and finally - HAVE PASSION for all that I do!

LIVE LIKE THERE IS NO TOMORROW

"The key to life is living like there's no tomorrow.

If you're sitting on the couch you're obviously

not riding some powder,

so maybe you should get off the couch and go ride!"

What a great message. What a great movie.

Now I just need some sleep :)

Forget-Me-Not

2011-11-07T21:27:00.000-05:00

I was reminded of this talk today at a time I needed the reminder...

Forget-Me-Not

1. Forget not the WHY of the gospel
"The gospel of Jesus Christ is not an obligation; it is a pathway, marked by our loving Father in Heaven, leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressible fulfillment in the life to come. The gospel is a light that penetrates mortality and illuminates the way before us."

2. Forget not that the Lord loves you

You are NOT forgotten by Him

"Just think of it: You are known and remembered by the most majestic, powerful, and glorious Being in the universe! You are loved by the King of infinite space and everlasting time!...You are destined for more than you can possibly imagine."

3. Forget not to be happy NOW
"There is nothing wrong with righteous yearnings—we hope and seek after things that are “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy.” The problem comes when we put our happiness on hold as we wait for some future event—our golden ticket—to appear....

The tragedy... is that... we fail to notice the blessings we have....The lesson here is that if we spend our days waiting for fabulous roses, we could miss the beauty and wonder of the tiny forget-me-nots that are all around us.

"The happiest people I know are not those who find their golden ticket; they are those who, while in pursuit of worthy goals, discover and treasure the beauty and sweetness of the everyday moments. They are the ones who, thread by daily thread, weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder throughout their lives. These are they who are truly happy."

I just wish it was easier to always remember these truths, especially when doubt and trials abound! But, such a beautiful flower and such a beautiful message.

Call me Betty. Betty Crocker, that is!

2011-10-31T20:35:00.000-04:00

Call me Betty. Or, Betty Crocker :)

As many past roommates know, I don't cook... or cook very often. If it can't be done in the microwave, or boiled on the stove very quickly, it's just not for me to eat by my own efforts.

Well, to celebrate my new couches, and that I finally have enough supplies in my kitchen TO cook something, I thought I would invite people over for dinner on Sunday!

This meant I had to spend time thinking about what to make, finding recipes, making a grocery list, buying the food, and then the actual cooking process! Oh my word - so much work! But, it was a success!

And, I just had to celebrate

and post this for my posterity :)

I was introduced to "Dinner in a Pumpkin" last year by my home teacher, Kaleb. I thought it was the coolest Fall tradition ever, so I have adopted it as my own as well. That was on the menu. Then, just in case my attempts at this failed, I decided to make a pumpkin chili and cornbread! I also made a chocolate pudding pie. (not pictured, but I did take a picture of another dessert I made!)

Because of time constraints, I made the chili on Saturday as well as the cornbread because I knew I could just reheat them before dinner the next day. It was the perfect cooking weather (overcast, cold, rainy... the kind of weather where you dread going outside). So, I got in the mood by turning a DVR'd "Ellen" on in the background and faced the challenge in the kitchen. Ellen made me laugh and not think about how much I don't enjoy cooking!

Gutting a pumpkin is not my most favorite thing to do, but I succeeded. I followed the directions to the "T", but the rice and cabbage never cooked in the end and the pumpkin bottom started to burn in the stove so I took it out on time. Now that I think about it, the same thing happened last year when the rice didn't cook. Maybe next year I'll remember and put in rice that's already been cooked!

The chili and the cornbread got good reviews (and I have to say I will def make both again!)... and people didn't say anything negative about the extra "crunch" when they ate the dinner in the pumpkin with the uncooked rice! (I had warned them ahead of time as well :)

But, the evening was a success and now I can rest my desire to cook for another couple of months... or maybe a year! :)

Cornbread... so yummy!

Dinner in a pumpkin & pumpkin chili

This is the yummy dessert I made (but not for the dinner)

Chocolate cake with marshmallows & cherry pie filling

Definitely will make again!

It's official! I am finally an adult!

2011-10-30T17:07:00.001-04:00

My brother declared it official yesterday.

It's only taken me 31 years and 2 months.

I am an adult!

And, are you wondering what makes it official? Well, I moved in to my own apartment 2 months ago. That wasn't part of my original plan, but became a necessity as events unfolded quite rapidly at the beginning of the summer.

As soon as I returned from being on Nantucket for a month and officially moved in, I quickly realized I was not prepared for this step in my life. I didn't own silverware, matching plates, a table or furniture, or anything that was required to cook anything besides pasta. I've always had roommates that already had everything so I never had the need to buy it.

This is a picture of what it did look like. Thanks to time in Boston, I had my free blue recliner that my mom and I dragged a few blocks home after finding it on the sidewalk when we were out for a walk. The TV is on loan from my mom. The Italian end tables were purchases dating back from my days at the Kennedy School! This Fellow from Italy brought them over and quickly realized he would not be taking them back! (They are heavy!)

So, needless to say, if I had anyone over, one of us would be sitting on the floor.

Well, after moving in, I immediately went out and bought some of the essentials and over the past two months have been filling in the gaps. Two months ago I also went and purchased my first set of REAL COUCHES. They weren't used or hand-me-downs, and I got a GREAT price on them. The only thing is that they took two months to arrive!

And, yes, THIS is what my brother said made me an "OFFICIAL" adult.

My couches arrived this week!

And, I LOVE them!

I was pretty picky on what I wanted. I knew I wanted a chair and a half with an ottoman, but they're not easy to find. I knew I also wanted another couch to match, but wasn't sure whether to go for a 2 or 3 seater. I must have sat on a hundred different ones, and dragged my mom to ten different stores until I found exactly what I wanted. And, was even able to get them for less than the already discounted price! They've got the right amount of "sinking in" when you sit on them and the pillow top for the arm rests.

The ottoman is still on back order... but I can't ask for too much at one time :)

Anyway, they arrived this week and my apartment is FINALLY coming together. I found a nice dining table on craig's list and ordered a runner/tablecloths for it as well. I updated the pictures in some of my frames and my brother came by to help me hang them yesterday. He was disappointed that my TV was still from the 90s, but that didn't seem to affect my "adult" status.

Still have the TV on loan, but at least I organized that area a little better!

I walked in today, and looked around, and my apartment finally started to feel like my real home!

Living on my own has been an adjustment. There are pluses and minuses to it, as with anything. However, one of the things I love the most is that everything is MINE. I can decorate how I want, put pictures of my family/friends, Jesus Christ and the temple, etc., wherever I want. AND, I am the only one making the messes and cleaning up after only my mess! I also love that I have my own garage parking space!

So, now that I am officially an adult, does that mean I have to act more responsible too? If so, I will decline the adult status. I am not ready to take that step yet!

Fun times with the Huber Family!

2011-10-02T13:13:00.008-04:00

General Conference weekend is always GREAT!

Hearing counsel and advice from our prophet and other church leaders helps me to re-focus myself, my priorities and where I spend my time!

But this weekend was extra special because Bekah and I got to spend part of it with Tami and her family!

They recently moved to a town outside of DC and Baltimore. It was a very pretty drive out there and I was tempted to stop at one of the many fruit and produce farms I passed along the way... but it was raining... like it has been every day since the beginning of December!

Sad to say I had not seen Tami since BYU, never met her husband, and therefore, definitely had never met her beautiful girls - A. & K.! They are very entertaining! The little girl I nanny for is definitely not a "girly-girl" so it was fun to be around two very sweet girls who reminded me of when I was little... pick high-heeled dress up shoes, princess wands and dresses!

Bekah's taking a picture at the same time on her computer, and that was more attractive than my camera, so. K. was looking in the other direction! But the girls had put on pretty dresses for dinner and they looked awesome! Note: they each have a wand as well!

We all watched the 2nd session of conference together and I was very impressed by how well her girls kept busy coloring some children's General Conference activity pages, while accurately recognizing some of the speakers when they came on the screen! They also seriously impressed me by their cleaning up and listening skills! I could have these girls give some kids I know some lessons in how to do this!

We had a yummy, yummy dinner and then were entertained more by the girls! We tried taking pictures, but as you can see there were some "candid" moments! Some of the pictures were taken by the girls, and you never knew which direction the camera would be facing when the camera went "click!" Thank goodness for digital cameras and the ability to delete ones that didn't quite work out!

Bekah got a little cut off in this one!

One of my favorites of Bekah.
A. was taking the picture at the time :)

A. taking our picture again.
My head got slightly chopped off :)

Tami and Bekah

A. taking our picture. This one worked!

It was such a fun time! I am so glad they moved closer to us and that we'll get to see each other more often! Oh - and we didn't get to play cornhole because it was raining. I don't even know what that game is, but I'm excited to learn! We did have yummy homemade ice cream and apple pie though :)

Welcome Holland Fitzpatrick Sept 8, 2011

2011-09-26T05:44:00.001-04:00

I wish I could claim her as my own,
but at least I can claim her as my BEAUTIFUL niece!

So tiny, so precious

So peaceful

Having recently left the presence of Heavenly Father
and Jesus Christ, she must be now wondering what
is now happening to her in this earth life!

And, getting a little tired thinking about it :)

The proud parents THE NIGHT she was born!
They don't look tired at all!
That is yet to come :)

Another family portrait

One proud aunt holding her at 3 days old.
More pictures to come!
But, I am so happy they're so close by for the next few months!

One last adventure... Great Point Light House

2011-09-25T14:34:00.001-04:00

One of the things to do on the kids "Bucket List" for the summer was to go out to the Great Point Light House which is at the very tip of the island. This is a little bit of an undertaking because you need a special beach permit in order to drive out on the sand, and it takes about an hour to get there because you can only drive about 15 mph on the sand.

Well, it just so happens that this is where Amanda worked all summer and invited us to come out to "volunteer" for a morning! We were able to follow her out (and avoid paying the $150 beach permit fee!), get a personalized tour inside the lighthouse (which isn't usually open) and then help to pick up trash along the beach. It was a beautiful day and a very cool experience.

I had never driven on sand before. Did you know that you have to deflate your tires to about 13 psi's instead of the usual 32 or 33?

Here's our lovely Jeep who did well on the sand!

We also passed some beautiful ponds along our
drive and saw some ducks and geese which the
kids told me I had to take a picture of!

When we arrived, the first thing
we did was climb up the lighthouse!

Amanda & the twins

Smiling.
Not something she does for cameras very often :)

OK - So, these are shacks without
electricity, water, etc. But, people come
and stay in them for glorified camping.
Ummm... no thanks.
I'll drive out to the tip instead!

This is the light inside!
Nice and Big!

After we climbed down all the steps,
we got ready to gather some trash!

Sadly, it was INCREDIBLE the amount of
trash we were able to gather in only a short
distance. I think in total... over 100 pieces!

One of the very cool things about Great Point is that this is where a lot of the seals are located. This one got very close to us, and I have to admit, I even stopped to watch it for like 10 minutes! It would surface... have a staring contest with us and then dive back under and pop up a minute later in a different location. The kids had fun trying to figure out where it would pop out next!

And, finally, me. At the very tip of the island! Or... as far as humans could go. They did have the last few yards blocked off to preserve the area for the seals and the birds... pipping clovers, I believe!

It was such a fun morning!!
Thank you Amanda for letting us come out with you!

The next day we left Nantucket... It was a very, very fun summer. Nantucket is absolutely beautiful and I am glad I got to experience a summer on the island! I met some amazing people, enjoyed being a member of the small LDS contingent, and look forward to a future visit in a few weeks when I fly back to pick up their mini and drive it back to DC... with a few stops along the way, like Boston and my dad's!

Please touch! Ummm... No thanks!

2011-09-24T16:51:00.004-04:00

Since the kids didn't have any camp options as the summer wound down, I was the camp director. Luckily, the Mariah Mitchell Association still had some things going on. Mariah Mitchell Association, for lack of better words, is the science and preservation organization on the island. They have a small aquarium, two observatories, a natural history museum, etc. The kids did a few of their camps during the summer and LOVED it. They would go digging in the beach or the marshes to find creatures!

Well, I took them to the aquarium and on one adventure where they sorted through some ocean creatures that were found. This is NOT my forte. Quite gross, I think. But, glad there are other people who enjoy this type of thing. And, the kids I nanny for LOVE IT!

At the aquarium... digging in the tank
I didn't put my hands anywhere near it!

This was our next adventure. The two people below worked for MMA and went out to collect whatever was in the water in to their net. Then, they brought it back and all the kids could sort it! Again, my hands stayed on the camera :)

Hmmm... a crab and oyster

Don't remember what that was,
but he's so happy he found it!

Another crab.
How can they pick it up?!!

The twins really learned a lot at the camps for MMA and new the actual names of so many of the different types or sand and water creatures. I was so impressed!

Prep for the Hurricane... that never came

2011-09-23T15:42:00.001-04:00

Growing up I lived through Hurricane Bob one summer while I was in RI. I wish we had digital cameras back then because my dad took the coolest picture of me after I had just run out to my front yard and stood there in the wind. My crazy, frizzy hair was completely blown at a 90 degree angle and I was tilting to one side because of the strong forces of the wind.

So, I was kind of excited to hear that another Hurricane was coming our way. I wasn't as excited knowing that I was on an island this time, but we lived mid-land and I felt pretty safe. All week long I had seen people taking their boats out of the water, the basics at the one grocery store were completely gone, and it was the talk of the town!

Well, some areas of the eastern seaboard got slammed with the hurricane. But, we got clouds on Saturday and then a very strong wind and sun on Sunday! No rain even.

People went to lots of work though preparing their house. I guess you can never be too prepared, although I thought this was a bit over the top considering we were never on the "direct hit" line of the hurricane.

On Saturday evening I went to go look at the beaches and the waves. I couldn't see very far because of the clouds, but the surf was rough! It was pretty to watch and it made me think about the power of Heavenly Father controlling the elements!

On my drive back to the house, I had to stop and take a picture. I had passed this many times before all summer long and it always made me laugh! This house had these tin statues in front of their yard. They were very bright and very unique!
But, this one always made me laugh. It's some kind of "person" but it's offering advice for 5 cents! Ha! I just thought that was really quite creative! I asked it a question about what I should do with my life/career, but since I didn't have any change on me it didn't answer. Advice doesn't come free these days :)

Why? I HAVE NO IDEA... but I do have FAITH

2011-08-27T22:16:00.001-04:00

Taking a little intermission from my Nantucket posts...

I am back in DC and it's been busy getting kids started with school again while unpacking, and getting my life back together as well! (I bought my first piece of furniture this past week... others soon to come!)

It's also been a time of reflection for me in thinking about where I am and where I am going. And, I've come to the conclusion that

I HAVE NO IDEA!
(Yes, that did scare me initially)

After graduating high school and in college I had my five and ten year plans. Well, I'll just say that it's nothing at all what my life is actually like right now. Even my plan after graduating with my masters degree is completely different than what I am doing now.

It's made me stop and think - WHY? Why did I even go to grad school if I was only going to work as a school counselor for 2.5 years? That was a lot of torture, money and agony to put myself through for just that!

And, I've asked WHY for many other questions as well. I'm not saying I have found the answers to those WHY questions, but I can start to see how one event led me to the next. And, that I can't even imagine I would be where I am right now if I hadn't taken those small, and sometimes very hard, steps along the way.

I ran across this article by Steve Jobs. His words gave me comfort as I walk a little blindly right now... and question - WHY?

Steve: "I didn't see it then, but it turned out that getting fired from Apple was the best thing that could have ever happened to me."

(I imagine he asked himself this question many times after this happened... WHY?)

Steve continues: "It was awful tasting medicine, but I guess the patient needed it. Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle."

I love that statement. I have had jobs at times that I DID NOT love. And, I guess I am still in the process of figuring out exactly what I do LOVE and what I believe is great work. I have faith and hope that I'll find it... but a long the way I guess I am just going to have to ask WHY and reason that I just don't know! And, that is OK.

Steve also adds: "When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something."

That is a good motto to live by

Finally, Steve explains it best by saying: "Again, you can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life."

I want to believe this is faith. Faith that the Lord knows who I am. Faith that he hears and answers my prayers. Faith that he loves me, is aware of me, and will help me as make decisions about my future.

Something I never thought I would see on this island

2011-08-27T20:56:00.006-04:00

Nantucket is B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L

Pretty flowers, beaches, houses, pools, yacht clubs, stores, landscape, etc.. You name it, it's beautiful! Everything is ridiculously expensive because they know that the majority of the people on the island can afford those prices, or work for those that can... like me :)

Well, I was shocked that the island was going to have its annual demolition derby! This was a tradition... WHAT?! The island has a different side to it than I have ever seen! So, I had to check it out. I got made fun of a little by some of those I talked to before I went (as I was leaving a tennis tournament at a club in order to go). They were just joking around, but I knew it wasn't their scene. I consider myself someone who can kind of mix well with all people, so I hoped I didn't stick out like a sore thumb there!

Off I went. I just wanted to take pictures of everything. I think I've been to one before, but it was when I was at BYU and I don't really remember it.

I went the 2nd day. So, maybe some cars had already been removed, but there were still a ton on the lot. People were fixing things and trying to make their car the best. I loved some of the colors on the cars and thought about how I would decorate one if I had it!

These cars were lined up ready for the next event

There was also a certain style of dress among most of those that attended... and I can't say that I really fit in well there, but they were accepting :) I made friends with the three older gentleman who sat beside me. I enjoyed listening to their conversations, and then I felt comfortable to ask them what the heck was going on and what the rules were.

This event was very confusing for me. I think they called it "intermission". But, the motorcycle would come up against the huge cement stone in front of it and then just rev its' tires trying to create as much smoke as possible. The more smoke that came out, the more the crowd cheered!

So, this guy got some really, really big cheers!

And, so did he.
I was just glad I was far back enough
that I didn't have to inhale the smoke!

Then, it was on to the cars.
What is the guy in this picture thinking?
Why would you stand there and hold it???

So, in this picture the car had just caught on fire and the driver escaped before he got injured. The FD was quick to respond, but the day before someone had to be med-vacced to Boston because he didn't escape in time and had burns on most of his body. I think it's interesting that the guy in the white shirt is pumping up his hands in victory! To me, the entire thing is silly and dare I say, stupid!

I then watched the cars ram in to each other and have a free-for-all. Needless to say, I was ready to go after one round. But, hey. I learned that Nantucket has a side I've never seen before and that I shouldn't judge by the appearance of the island only :)

Hard day of work :)

2011-08-27T20:47:00.005-04:00

And, again, another hard day of work!

You would think on the island there would be quite a few people who offer to take you tubing or water-skiing, etc. Well, there aren't. We couldn't find any, until just recently! Their dad saw a flyer for a guy that would take us out on his boat for tubing and he signed us up!

It could not have been a more beautiful day! We met Captain John who took us out on his boat in to the harbor. He blew up the massive 3 person tube and off we went! I was one of the first to get to go. It was a tough sacrifice, but someone had to do it! Ava and Jed obviously loved it as well :)

The thumbs up in the picture just meant that we wanted him to go FASTER! For Ava, he could never go fast enough :)

So, some other tough things I've had to do is try paddle boarding! I don't think I had ever seen anyone do this before this summer, but couldn't let the summer go by without trying it. Sadly, I chose a day that was pretty windy... meaning that it was easy to get somewhere when the wind was behind you, but coming back was a LOT harder. This kind of scared me because I didn't want to have to swim back in with the paddleboat, so I didn't venture too far out.

I asked Amanda (my only friend on the island!) to come with me! She's always got an "adventure bug" in her, so she readily agreed!

Paddleboarding is weird in that you just stand on this board and paddle. Your feet are not strapped to anything and so you really have to balance yourself. Good for the core muscles, I guess!
Since we didn't venture too far out with the paddlesboards, we decided that we could get further if we went together in a kayak. So, Amanda and I took out a double and paddled over to the other side. There wasn't anyone to take a picture of both of us in the kayak so we each got one separately. It was hard paddleing back in... the wind was really strong that day!

Yep - Just chillin'. But that was after using all my upperbody strength to help get us back. And, I owe my steering skills to Camp Oneka where I learned to canoe and kayak! If not, maybe we would have ended up outside the harbor and in the ocean!!

Autism Speaks... and sandcastles!

2011-08-27T10:53:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, August 20th I had the awesome opportunity to walk with the family I work for, for this great cause! I have worked with children who have autism before, and figured I could surely participate in a 2 mile walk for a good cause. It's been a while though since I have been around families who have children with autism and how it affects every family member. I met the founders that morning and walked with their children and grandchildren. I saw, in that short amount of time, how autism not only affects the child, but every member of the family. It affects every minute of their day and what they are able to do and accomplish. The parents that I know of who have a child with autism dedicate their lives to helping their child. And, as I learned more about this organization, met the founders and their family, and participated in the day's events, I have truly become a supporter of it and am volunteering to help at their DC walk in October! What they have been able to accomplish in 6 years is incredible!

Here is a link to their history:
AUTISM SPEAKS

I also really liked the design of their t-shirts.
I'll actually wear this one again!

The day of the walk was absolutely beautiful. We've had many days like that here on the island, actually! But, it was sunny and not humid. We gathered on Jetties Beach, which is near town. They had some activities for kids, and then some promotional stuff, and then we walked 2 miles! It wasn't hard, but they were able to raise a lot of money.

Autism is hard because there really isn't any medicine for it, and a lot of the cause/ways to help are "unknown". Today, it is estimated that one in every 110 children are diagnosed on the autism spectrum, which makes it more common that childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined. Sadly there are about 1.5 million individuals in the US with it and the prevalence rate is increasing about 10-17 percent annually. So, something needs to be done!

After the walk, we stopped back at the house to get out bathing suits... because we were invited to a pool party/BBQ at the Wright's house! They live on the north-eastern side of the island in a very pretty area. The house was beautiful, as well as the pool/pool house and everything around it! They also have a lot of land, which is great for their grandkids!

This is a picture of their beautiful house!

The BBQ and all the food were by the pool. So, while the adults talked, the kids played! They even had their own paddleboard! Notice below... Jed is very happy to be on it, but that's only because he fought off Max to get that spot and Ava is very distraught because she had it first. Ahhh... siblings :)

I wasn't sure the whole story behind this racecar, but I do know it was quite a feat for it to be able to get on the island. It had to come over on the ferry and was very protected... but I imagine it took a lot of coordination and planning. This was my first time seeing an actual racecar up close and personal. Very cool! I even looked under the car and I can't tell you all that they told me, but the engine and the mechanics underneath the car are not like a typical car!

Well, after the party (with very yummy food), I headed back to Jetties Beach where I saw the final products of the Sandcastle Building contest they had that afternoon. People could register as family's, individuals or groups. Sadly, when I was arriving, some of the high tide was coming in and starting to destroy some of the castles, but I still snagged some pictures! Some people get very in to this ad plan for months what they are going to do!
I thought this one was pretty neat. It's just a huge castle, but very well done and I liked the extra special touch of the shells!
"ACKPORT" is supposed to resemble the airport whose call letters are ACK. The sculpture is a plne and then they also used shells to decorate it. Creative!

And, a lovely Octopus. Simple, but cool!

Just another hard-working day here on the island :)

Brant Point and Steps Beach

2011-08-14T17:46:00.006-04:00

One of my goals (I think I mentioned in another post) is to see all the lighthouses on the island. This lighthouse was an easy one to get to. It's just west of town and you can basically drive to it. It's Brant Point and it's right next to the Coast Guard Station. It's a tiny lighthouse, but it's the main one to guide ships in to the harbor. And, as I found out yesterday, it's also a great beach for little kids since the waves are so small and evidently there must be some good fishing because there were many out there doing it... although I didn't see any fish in the water!

I liked the flag on the side of it

Can you see the size of some of those boats!
All I kept thinking as I walked past some of these boats
and houses on the harbor... was WHO are these people??!!
I need to get to know them!!

The picture below is one of the ferry's leaving the island.

So, one of my other goals is to get to as many of the beaches on the island as possible. This is a much harder goal to reach as there are 37 miles of beaches and every half-mile seems to be a new beach! But, the kids told me about this one so I thought I'd check it out.

Steps beach... properly named because...

These are the steps to gain access to the beach!

This beach is located off of "Cliff Rd". Looking up from the beach you can tell why it's named that. And, the picture doesn't do these houses justice! I love just driving by them and thinking, "Who are these people?!
I have to get to know them!" :)

Then, I saw these tomatoes?? everywhere in the green brush on the cliff. I also saw a snake slither away... and that about did it for me at this beach. It was a very quick walk for me back up the steps.

Town from the tippy top of the whaling museum

2011-08-14T17:13:00.003-04:00

I am trying to do some touristy things on the island before the end of the summer. I would say besides the numerous beaches, the main tourist attraction is the whaling museum. And, my one friend on the island, just so happens to have free passes. Normally, it's $17 to get in. Probably wouldn't pay that on my own, but for free... I'm happy to go in and spend some time!

The museum was very interesting. I had no idea how or even why Nantucketers tried to catch whales after arriving on the island in the 1700s. They wanted the oil for lamps, etc. They sought after "right whales" and "sperm whales".

I wish I could give an accurate description of how these men caught whales, but keep in mind... this is the 1700s and not much technology or engine-powered things were invented yet! So, once a whale was spotted, the men on this row boat would row out to the whale as fast as it could. Maybe up to a mile or more. Then, it would harpoon the whale and go for a RIDE! Yes, that's right. The whale obviously was HUGE and strong. It would take the row boat on a wild ride until it either got tired, or swam beneath the ocean. If it decided to go below the water, the row boat men had to make a split second decision on whether to cut the rope (therefore preventing sinking) or ride it out in hopes the whale didn't go too far below the water!

So, assuming the whale just tuckered out and stopped, the crew would kill the whale and then row it back to the big boat. Now, this is a HUGE whale. After they rowed fast to get the whale, then embraced the challenge of capturing the whale, they now have to tow the darn thing back to the main boat... many, many miles away! I can't even imagine how exhausting that would be!

Anyway - it was very, very cool to learn about! With my pass, I was also able to go on a 90 minute walking tour of the town and learn about its history. Very interesting. Then, I climbed up to the tippy-top of the whaling museum to take picture of the harbor and the town.

I learned there are some 2500 moorings for boats in the harbor. And, some of these boats are bigger than two or three normal homes put together!

I guess I really like these pictures because I walk these streets so often. Looking down and seeing it in a "big picture" is really neat!

Why I love this airport

2011-08-13T11:31:00.005-04:00

The first time I took one of these planes, I had to ask myself if the trip was really worth it because I was so nervous to ride in one! All I could think of was a story I heard when I was in Alaska this time last year and how a similar plane crashed in to a side of the mountain.

I knew I wouldn't be going over any mountains, but I did figure out my quick escape plan if we happened to crash on the water.

I've now taken a couple of these flights and am more comfortable with them. My last trip "overseas" was to Hyannis. I arrived at the airport an hour early because I thought I had to go through security. Well, LUCKY me! There's such a thing as "Airport Taxi's"!

Who knew?!

With these flights you don't have to go through security. If I was traveling to Boston or PVD or some other major airport I would have had to, but not Hyannis or some of the other very small airports. I literally could have walked in to the airport a minute before my flight, got my ticket and boarded!

What a cute little plane. This one was actually quite
crowded with 6 people on board and the pilot!

As we flew I wanted to take pictures of the beautiful land/water below.
We flew closer to the ground that normal flights
so I just looked down the whole time

It was around sunset

And, there is Nantucket! All those beach houses!

Katy's visit! I have 2 friends today!

2011-08-13T11:22:00.005-04:00

The family I nanny for decided to take the kids off island for a few days. I could have gone off as well, for the whole time, but decided to also make the most of them being gone and having some time off to explore the island! ... and take advantage of things I've done... just without the kids!

Fortunately, Katy had a free day and was able to come over to play! She doubled my friend number on the island :)

The day flew by. We spent some time in town, the beach, the pool, Sconset, Sankaty light house, and a bike ride (Well, Katy and Amanda did while I had to attend an event. From what I hear Katy got to see more parts of the island than they had originally set out for :)

It was fun and a very beautiful day!

"Katy Head"

Now, that might be an even better name for the lighthouse!

Don't ask me why I am posing as a teapot?! Ha!

This lighthouse was moved some years ago
because of beach erosion... but it's located
in a very pretty part of the island!

My one friend on the island, Amanda, joined with us for the day.

It was so fun to have Katy here for a visit and
to enjoy yet another beautiful day on the island!

A little excursion

2011-08-08T10:59:00.006-04:00

So, recently I was able to take a day excursion
back to my old stomping ground

Boston!

to visit some of my favorite boys :)

I flew on a teeny, tiny plane to Hyannis (only 17 minutes long!... and more on that in another post) and then rented a car. I can't express how fun it was to get on the highway and drive! Here on the island, I never get to go above 35 mph, and it's all stop & go or stop, turn, and then go. But, on the highway, I just GO!

I arrived in time to pick them up from their half day of camp. It had been just over a year since I said goodbye to them and seeing them again made me smile! They gave me a hug and then showed me all the cool things they were doing or making at their camp!

We then went to one of mine (and their) favorite spots for lunch - Chipotle! On the way I got all the updates on school, friends, sports, summer fun, etc. They both have such great, positive attitudes and are so enthusiastic! They're also polite and get along well with each other, so the entire afternoon was a treat for me to be with them!

I miss these smiles!

Jeremiah is holding up some cards for some game. I never quite figured out what it was or how to play, but the boys love it!

After a yummy lunch, we headed back to their house because they wanted to show me a few things.

They've turned their downstairs basement in to a little workshop area for each child, and another location for the band!

Here are some of Leo's impressive "builds" from his Legos. I can't even imagine the hours he put in to doing it! But, I was so impressed. A pirate ship, a castle... and on and on

Then, Jeremiah and Leo wanted to show me their skills on their instruments. Leo is learning the drums and Jeremiah is playing the piano. Leo played some and then let me try. Drums are harder than I thought! Jeremiah then played a song for me. I was so impressed by both!

Afterwards we played some baseball in the yard (until we lost all the balls in the bushes and no one wanted to go after them!) and some basketball. Then we moved inside to build some dominoes and read stories.

It was such a fun afternoon and I was sad to say goodbye, but I had to get back. I got big hugs before I left though. Sadly, on my return drive, it was more stop and go (with a lot of stopping) as it was rush hour, but I did get there in time for my flight!

Such a great day!! I hope I get to see them again in a few weeks!

On my way out, I stopped by to take a picture of the church I used to meet in. It burned down in May 2009. I happened to be inside in our Sunday service when it started. It was incredible to watch it burn from start to finish.

The churches in the community provided our congregation a space to meet for a while. But, I was very happy to hear that the church was rebuilt and dedicated recently! It wasn't open when I got there, but it was wonderful to even just stand outside and look at it. Such wonderful memories of my time there!

One thing that takes my breath away here

2011-08-07T16:48:00.002-04:00

Is this.

Beautiful!!

Nantucket Life cont....

2011-07-24T19:28:00.003-04:00

Nantucket life continued....
One thing I was a little worried about before coming to the island was church. I value, and gain personal benefit, from going to my church each week and participating in the three hour meeting. It rejuvenates me and is spiritually uplifting. It gets me ready for the week. I knew there wasn't a branch or ward on the island, but a small gathering of members in some one's home. It was an abbreviated meeting schedule and I was just worried about not attending my ward for three months! I knew there were "congregations" like this around the world, but never did I understand what it really was like until I actually was a part of one!

I've come to realize after attending here for a few weeks that a church service or meeting, is not so much what is taught or presented, but what you make of it. If I go, listen, and think to myself that this isn't worth my time because it's not like what I'm used to... or maybe the speaker isn't very eloquent... I'll walk away having wasted my time, gained nothing, and be frustrated blaming THEM for not providing me a spiritual Sunday experience.

When, in reality, it's completely the opposite.

It's up to me.

If I come prepared to learn, having read the lesson, my scriptures in hand, and a positive attitude ready to be an active participant/listener, I'll feel the Spirit and take away more than I could ever imagine!

One great thing for me is that it's about a minute drive from the house!
Well, here it is! Yep, we meet in the upstairs of a dentist's office! The dentist who owns the practice lives above his office (convenient, eh?). We meet in his living room because he has a piano. Were lucky to have the piano. The singing... well, let's just say it is not the Mormon Tab Choir!

We're part of the Barnstable branch, but to get to church, you'd have to catch the 6 AM ferry, cost around $100, and you'd get home around 5 or 6 PM. So, the branch president has given his OK for us to meet here. The weeklies consist of the dentist, another husband, wife and their 16 year old son, and another lady probably about my age who lives with her husband and son but they're not members. The husband of the 16 year old kind of leads our weekly meetings.

A few other people come and go. This summer, there is an older lady who comes every now and then because she's on the island for the summer. Her husband isn't a member though. Then, there's another girl my age who is here for a few months. She works for the Fish and Wildlife service and I don't know exactly what she does, but she's teased by others that she's here saving the birds. She works with the seals as well. I know she works out on the tip of the eastern part of the island because I ran in to her on one of my adventures a few Sundays ago! She's from Idaho though and it's been fun to get to know her (see later posts).

Then, to cap off this lovely, very random group of people -there's me!

So, here's how our services go. We gather and wait for anyone else to show up, so we usually start 10 min late. We have an opening song and prayer and since there is no announcements or business, we jump right into the sacrament hymn. The passing of the sacrament takes all of two minutes. I'm used to having a much longer sacrament time in which to gather my thoughts and pray, etc., but this speeds by too quickly!

After the sacrament, we have one person give a "talk'. Right now we're studying the presidents of the church and this week was David O McKay. It turns out to be more of a lesson, and since we're getting into more recent prophets now, some of the older adults share memories from their childhood. For instance, I learned a cute story about David O Mckay today. He must have been a jokester because two men got up to help him down some stairs in his later years (he lived to be 96). Well, with each on one of his sides he turned to them and said "Gentleman. I can help one of you down these stairs, but I certainly can't help BOTH of you!" :)

We sometimes get a little off track, but after we finish, we have a closing song and prayer. Then, we have Sunday School/RS/Priesthood. This is usually taught by the husband who "presides" at the meetings. Again, it's more like a discussion as he leads it. It's interesting and refreshing to hear so many different thoughts and views. All of us are SOO different, but we're alike in that we share the same faith and are here on this tiny island worshiping together.

The House

As explained in another post, the house we live in is considered to be "mid-island"... meaning it's not associated with one of the many beaches. It's a cute little community called "Naushop" and it's literally a ten minute WALK - yes walk - from the airport. It's very conveniently located to all the basic needs you would have on the island and there's a beach in any direction you drive!

The community is one huge semi-circle, with a couple of streets branching out in the middle. There's speed bumps every couple of houses, which is nice for kids to be allowed out riding their bikes and parents not worrying that someone is going to speed through the neighborhood.

Most of the houses look the same, and many have cute names above their front door that the owners have chosen. About 30% of the families live here year round, another 30% own the house and occupy it for the summer, and the other 40% or so rent it out.

I can only imagine what it's like living here from September-June!

It's a very cute house. Room to play in front and back for the kids and we are in the middle of the semi-circle, so we're not near the main road at all. There's also a tiny cul-de-sac right next to us, so it's an ideal place for the kids to skateboard and ride bikes. There's also a pool and tennis courts, but we never use those because they belong to a club that has all this and food you can order as well!

I really like most of their neighbors. Everyone is outside at some pt in the day... the kids play together and the parents chat. I feel safe letting the kids outside and not feeling like I have to watch their every move.

A funny, very unexpected thing happened a few weeks ago. The kids were just coming home from their half-day camp and a neighbor told them that three cows had just been walking in his driveway. He had been sitting outside reading, and looked up, and asked himself "What is wrong with this picture?"! Ha! I can only imagine. You're on a beautiful island filled with many luxuries... and you don't think that there are farms or animals nearby! But, as I found out, there is a farm just behind our neighborhood and the cows got loose! The police got on it and were captured :) All was safe once again.

The Cobblestones:
Yes, there are quite a few cobblestone streets on Main street (as you will see in another post) but I also fell in love with a free a capella performance on one of these streets at night on the weekend as well! They're called "The Cobblestones" and they're mostly locals who have day jobs and perform at night on the side! They're good and I enjoy listening to them. A small crowd will gather and others will walk and pass on by. On a nice night, it's a great way to spend an hour.

Here they are!

One excursion off the "main drag"...

2011-07-24T02:59:00.000-04:00

My excursion last Sunday:
I decided last Sunday that my life on this island consists of a very small, confined area. Basically, everything I need and all I have done is between the airport and town.... which is about 1.5 miles on one road! But, seriously, the house, the grocery store/pharmacy, the gym, the tennis/pool club, etc., are all right along this road!

So, I took off in the mini towards Siasconset. It's about 6 miles from us mid-islanders (which is the area where the house is located). And, it's beautiful. It's on the eastern shore and many famous or well-known people have their homes there. I would hate being so far from town (See? That's what comes from being on a small island and living so close to town. I forget what it's like to have to drive more than 2 or 3 minutes to go shopping or get to the airport.) The people out in Siasconset have to drive 10-15 minutes. That's crazy!

So, I drove out there and did the typical tourist thing... didn't drive over 5-10 miles per hour as I wanted to see all the homes and places. It was a beautiful afternoon and the views of the water and lands were incredible.

I drove north and stopped at the Sankaty lighthouse. It's high on a cliff that was obviously blocked off because it was eroding. They actually moved the lighthouse 405 feet a few years ago so it didn't drop off!

The ocean is to the right in the picture

A view from the lighthouse
Most of Nantucket homes are that greyish wood color.

Another view. Nantucket is mostly really flat.
I think I was at one of the "high points" taking this picture.

From there I drove northwest to Quidnet and Wauwinet. Along the way I saw these houses just set back from the road a bit, all by themselves. And, they were HUGE! But, I don't think I would like not being close to ANYTHING but a beach!

However, I continued on my pretty drive and stopped at a National Park "hut". It was clear that the mini would not go any further, because at this spot you had to have a 4 wheel drive vehicle and deflate your tires in order to continue on the sand road! They didn't have any parking (that I saw) there as well, so I couldn't get out and walk to the ocean. But, it was just my lucky day because all of a sudden I hear "Cara?" from behind me. I didn't think this person could possibly be calling my name because I didn't know anyone! So, I didn't turn around. She called "Cara?" again, and I turned and saw one of the girls I had met in church earlier that day! She is here on an assignment for a few months to protect and save the birds on this part of the island. How random that I ran in to her, but she had stopped to deflate her tires before driving out on the sand!

We chatted for a few minutes, then she told me that I could park there in a special spot and walk around. Cool! So, she took off for the outer edge of the island and I strolled past some additional homes (that could only be reached by 4 wheel drive and deflated tires) and even a hotel! I was shocked there was a hotel all the way out here. It was an elegant one, and obviously, well-off people come to escape the everyday life by staying here.

I took it upon myself to walk in it, look around, and then continue on to their "private" grass area and beach :) It was pretty, but no where I would be interested in staying. All there was to do was walk around and chat while sipping cocktails with other people or sit and read. I need some action!

But, they did have PLENTY of my favorite flowers on this island. They are everywhere! We have some in our yard... almost everyone does. Who knows what they are, but aren't they beautiful! There's purplish ones and pinkish ones as well!

I love these flowers!!

I left and continued down the sand road until it became quite clear that it would take me an hour or more to reach the end of the island and then I didn't want to have to walk that whole way back. So, I returned to my car and set off back towards town.

I was proud of my little excursion and even prouder I didn't get lost!... but then again, there are only so many ways or places to get lost! (and that did happen this past week when I took another excursion to Bartlett Farms!... story to come later)...

My new life... well, at least for a while

2011-07-23T12:59:00.010-04:00

A little bit about where I've been since the middle of June.

If you're in to trivia (and haven't read this bog in a while)... here are some trivia facts to see if you can guess it.

1. First reported sighting by Norsemen in the 11th century.
2. The Wampanoag Indians were the original inhabitants and named it "..." which means "faraway land" in their language.
3. The year-round population is 10,000, but in the summer it reaches close to 56,000... and I am one of them!
4. It has the largest concentration of Native American place names in the country.
5. In 1977 it wanted to secede from the state it belongs to... but the attempt was unsuccessful!
6. It was the last community in its state to lift a ban on automobiles (1918)... and shockingly enough, I found a Ford Car Dealership on the island!
7. Benjamin Franklin's mum was born here. Cool!
8. It has 82 miles of beaches. And, sadly enough, I really don't like the beach! Not a fan of sand and salt water swimming :( Give me the chlorine any day.
9. It is a town, county and an island! It's 14 miles long and 3-5 miles wide depending on where you're at.
10. I am healthier living here. Why? Because not only do I swim, bike, run, etc., but "..." has its own source of fresh drinking water created by the glacier 12,000-10,000 years ago. Water is drawn from an aquifer that sits below the island. Ground water filters down through sand and clay. The clay prevents sea water from invading the “lens.” But most importantly, Nantucket does not add chlorine or any other additives to the water supply. So, since my basic sources of fluid are milk, diet coke (yes, just one a day), and water (but mostly water) ... I think the water is much better here!

So, there you have it. Guessed yet?

Well I am terrible at trivia and will forget all those facts an hour from now, so here's the answer:
We are located around "mid-island", but as noted above... really, anywhere you are on the island isn't very far from somewhere else.

To be honest, I have felt a little claustrophobic at times. The only way off the island is to fly, or take a ferry. So, if there is ever a disaster, can you imagine 56,000 people trying to get off this island? And, I've so wanted at times to just hop in the car and drive to Boston... but that's not possible. I'd first have had to reserve a spot for my car months in advance on the ferry... and then wait for the ferry and go over. Inconvenient - YES!

There are many things I like about this island. First of all - it's beautiful. The flowers are in bloom, grounds are well-kept and litter-free, and there's a certain "beach" charm to the architecture and style of homes. There's also ample running and biking trails, outdoor activities, and a cute town to walk around in. I also love their airport! It's my absolute favorite out of all airports I've been in.

Why?
1. Check-in takes all of 2 minutes
2. TSA security takes about 5 minutes and there's never a long line. And, these TSA agents are actually nice and friendly. Imagine that!
3. The airport has consistent and good FREE Wi-fi!
4. The bathrooms are always clean!
5. It's not hard to find your gate since there are only 3 :)

The lovely ACK (Nantucket airport)

And, there goes my only other
transportation off this island!

So, what do I do with all my time?

That is a good question. A bunch of it is spent taking care of the kids. But when they're in camp, I do the usual laundry, grocery shopping, general household tasks, organization, etc. I've also cooked more in my life here than ever before! I've made my first "whole chicken" in the oven, as well as explored using the oven to cook and not nuking everything like I usually do. I've had general success so far! The chicken, however, was my absolute pride and joy! I wish I had taken a picture!

Oh - but I still find plenty of time to walk the cobblestone streets downtown.

A view from the main road at night.
There are a TON of fancy shops, restaurants, etc.

I also find plenty of time to keep up on my exercise (including my new goal of learning how to swim freestyle and not feel like I am going to die after 50 m)

Here's the pool at the club that I use. I'm up to swimming 650 m... of course taking a few seconds to breathe after each 25 m... but progress has been noted! Can you see the lifeguard on the right side? These guys work 8 hours or so a day. I often wonder if they get hecka bored just sitting there... and how many books they get to go through in a week! There is another family pool right up a couple of stairs by this one, so they switch around a bit and the family one is always busy... but still! I would go out of my mind in boredom!

The kids (and therefore I) also spend a great deal of time in these two stores. The one on the right is called "The Sunken Ship". It's filled with toys, random clothing and gift items and anything water related. Kids LOVE it! Then, behind it is a place called "The Juice Bar." Don't let the name fool you. This place is anything BUT healthy! Shakes, floats, ice cream galore... all can be found at "The Juice Bar"... but not any juice! It's in a great location because it's on the same road that the ferry lets people off at as they disembark for the island! It's ALWAYS crowded! Notice the line by the door... :)
A lot of people bike everywhere on the island... but biking is NOT for me. I have a bike with a cute little basket in front of it, but UGH... not a fan of biking. Fortunately, I usually have access to a car. There is a Jeep, but the car I usually drive when not hauling kids is this cute little thing!
As some of you know, I am in the market for a new car. And, for a while after arriving here, I was thinking that I should get a mini. It's ideal for parking in small spots, it totally impressed me by the amount of "things" I can fit in it, and it's a cute car! But, after driving it for a while now, I realized, a mini is not for me.

Why?
1. I find it a pain to not have a backdoor to load groceries in and out of
2. It doesn't seem like it would do well in ice and snow
3. It doesn't have the powerful, safe feeling of being in a big car, raised above the ground.

But, it does a good job of "zipping" here and there and on the island, it gets the job done and I am so grateful for it!

Family Time is the BEST time! And, CONGRATS Evan!

2011-07-16T19:24:00.018-04:00

I had a special treat last weekend to be able to go to my dad's and have a little family reunion with my brothers and their families. It's very, very rare that we are all in the same general area at the same time!

I arrived on Saturday from Nantucket. Fortunately the weather cleared so flights were taking off again. I traveled on THE TINIEST airplane I have ever been on for the 40 minute ride to Providence! My knees were in the back of the pilot's seat and there were only three other passengers. I was nervous the entire time because I could see everything the pilot was doing and ever time there was a ding or a new light on the control board, I would look to see the pilot's reaction with initial panic thinking we were going down!

It was neat to fly so close to the ground that I could see things as we flew over it... like Martha's Vineyard and part of RI. It was also the loudest flight I had been on and others could tell I was not a seasoned traveler on these planes because the other passengers all had ear plugs!

Lesson learned for the return flight... but also, needless to say I was very, very relieved when my feet touched ground again!

Evan and Madison picked me up and off we set for good ol' Westerly RI. We weren't home for long before everyone set off for dinner and the North Stonington Fair. It's been around for years, but I have never been!

We ate dinner at the famous Mystic Pizza and I ate more grease that evening than I have eaten in a year! Oh - but it was yum :) I sat next to my 5 year old nephew and devoured his chicken fingers and french fries... on top of the mozzarella sticks and fried foods my dad had ordered for everyone as appetizers! I didn't have room left for my own dinner!

On to the fair. It was so much fun! They had everything a typical fair has... lots of food stands, rides, games to win prizes, etc. But, the first thing we ran in to caught my attention because I had never seen it before.

A truck pull!

We sat in the bleachers and watched as my sister in law and I tried to figure out the rules. We ended up having to ask the guy behind us. But, it comes down to an individual with a truck is given three opportunities to pull a heavy amount of bricks and they see who gets the farthest.

We also learned that those who deflated their front tires did much better than those who didn't. You can see that in the picture above. And, look at their extra exhaust pipe in the bed of the truck!

So, next we moved on to the cow pull. I think I've seen one of these before but I would never want to get in the way of these animals!

That's a ton of bricks!

Well, there is no such thing as a fair without games and rides, so we made out way over in that direction... with one brief stop to get a family picture.
Riley and Jace had just gotten prizes ... and that's what they're holding in their hands.

Riley going down this slide on a potato sack!

And, then on a dragon roller coaster

Jace got on his own tilt-a-whirl ride and loved it!

Evan throwing darts at a balloon to win a prize for Jace

Riley did a great job doing the same thing and won his own prize!

The boys really wanted to see the animals they had in cages. We saw sheep, hens, chickens, birds, bunnies, and other lovely farm creatures.

I thought this sheep was cute!

So, the reason Justin & Becca brought the boys to RI was for a vacation. But, Evan and Madison were there for a different reason!

Can you see him in the white shirt?

How about in this picture?

Can't miss the Half-Ironman Triathlete in this picture!!!!

I am so proud of Evan. I can't believe what he did to be able to finish this race and not keel over! 56 miles of biking, one mile swim and a half marathon - UGH. Just thinking about it makes me want to fall over! I was so glad we were all able to be there and see him finish though!

Madison took this picture right after the race... Evan's still standing. I wouldn't be!

Then, we got someone to take our picture so Madison could be in it! She had been up with Evan since 4:30 AM and there at every transition to help him... and she's 7 months pregnant!

Evan and Madison!

Evan with his rental bike!

So, another great thing was being able to celebrate my nephew's fifth birthday! Here's Jace blowing out his candles!

Make a wish!

Jace, Riley and Mom!

The next day was also beautiful. Actually, the whole weekend was beautiful, but we were able to go to the beach on my last day there. My dad only lives five minutes from it and we had special parking so we don't need to either wait in traffic or have to pay an arm and a leg for parking like other do!

My nephew's are FISH! They love the water! I loved being able to watch them and talk to my sister in law at the same time!

Such cute, adorable, well-behaved boys. I truly admire the job my sister in law and brother are doing in raising Riley and Jace. I just wished they lived closer! But, I am also excited for my new niece to arrive in September and she'll only be a mile from me in Arlington!

It was such a wonderful weekend. Playing tennis with my dad, going for a long run along the beach, eating yummy food, sleeping in my old room, and spending time with my brothers and their families, as well as my dad and his wife. I'd do it all over again every weekend!

And, Evan's inspired me to also take up swimming again. It's easy to do in Nantucket when I have access to two pools. So far, so good. Slow progress, but getting better with my freestyle each time I get in the water to swim laps. I can't wait to see what I am able to do by the end of the summer!

And, I LOVE my family!

Three simple letters, one simple word... undefineable meaning

2011-07-08T17:27:00.005-04:00

MOM

Simple words to write, but defining it would take a novel.

I have thought a lot about what I would want to write in this post,
but figured I didn't have the eloquence in writing to do it justice.

SO, I thought I would write a summary of what
I have learned from her over the years:
Disclaimer: This is what I have learned...
not saying that I always do it!

What's right is what's right...
no matter what others are doing

Eating dinner as a family is important. It doesn't matter
what's served as long as you sit down and eat together.

It's OK to re-wrap a gift you already received
and have someone think it's new and
a surprise for you when you open it:)

It never hurts to check, re-check, triple check,
and then check again once more.

You can "talk the talk,"
but can you "walk the walk?"
a.k.a "Actions speak louder than words"

Taking "mental health days" from school and work
and really making the most of it
is TOTALLY acceptable!!
Lunch and a movie, anyone?!

Service might not always be easy or convenient,
but you'll be much better off after having done it
and so will the person you served.

A commitment is a commitment.
Enough said.

If your cell phone drops a call. Always call them right back.
If not, they might think you died instead.

While waiting, it's important to keep your shirt on
and to hold your horses :)

Cursing in German is OK.
Cursing in English is not.

Save all your receipts, emails, paperwork,
and basically anything that won't rot over time.
You never know when you're going to need it again.
You just never know.
And, even though you can't remember
where you put it when you do need it,
you'll have comfort in knowing that it
really is somewhere and you'll find it eventually!

Lima Beans are bad.
Chocolate is always OK. Always.

Be industrious.
Learn how to do/fix things on your own.
Then, teach your children.

Decide which battles are worth fighting
and which battles to let go of.

British murder mysteries and
listening to newscasters argue on just about anything
is the next best thing to chocolate and heaven.

She has one "duck" and he will always
be her "duck" no matter how old he gets. :)

If the only thing you get done during the day
is getting the newspaper read,
you can call it a successful day!

This list could go on and on... but one of the most important things I have learned from my mother is to be kind to others, especially those who are different from you or those who are not kind in return. Patience and understanding are virtues that are irreplaceable.

There are very few things in this life
I have NEVER ever doubted.
One of those is my mother's
unconditional love for me!

Happy Birthday MOM!!

This is a picture taken at her birthday dinner celebration!

Life sure is interesting... definitely never dull

2011-07-05T11:55:00.009-04:00

Life sure does throw some curve balls when you're least expecting it.

An update: For my job, I am living on Nantucket island this summer. It's a beautiful place, but it makes coordinating my own life a little difficult.

Most of June was very busy getting ready to make the move for everyone up to the island. I kind of put my personal life on hold because I knew I'd have the last week in June off. I was looking forward to doing some day trips, relaxing by the pool, and having fun!

Well, life had other plans. A summary of "vacation" included:
1. A very, very, VERY unplanned and unexpected MOVE! Yes. That's right. For reasons I will leave off this blog, I ended up having to pack up my apartment, as well as find a new apartment, and deal with some extra drama related to that in a matter of about 6 days.

The ACTUAL move won't happen till the last weekend in July, but since I'll be traveling for work I won't be back till the day I have to move! And, yes, the blessing is that it's only a block away and so I don't have to rent a UHaul... just a couple of dolly's. So, if you have to move, I guess this is the best possible scenario.

It was actually another blessing that I found the apartment that I did. It had been taken off the market, but I questioned it, and after some checking they notified me that it was a mistake and was actually on the market! Sweet! I got it, and I got it at the reduced price!

2. July 4th was a day to celebrate our Nation's birthday, which is a wonderful event. But, it was also the day for a funeral for my trusted, mostly reliable, and ever-faithful companion...

Yes, the Saab's days were limited, but this event sealed the deal even moreso. I am just grateful my mom hadn't started to get out of the car before we were hit. I had pulled over to the side to let her out of the car and a guy who was coming from a cross street pulled out and didn't look (or stop) before he hit us. I had a sweet headache from the impact for a while yesterday, but I don't even want to think what would have happened if my mom had actually started to get out of the car.

The Saab served me well for the past 6 years or so. It's only caused me drama a few times... like when it literally BLEW UP (the engine, that is) while I was driving on the NJ turnpike.

But, you know what - I just realized that in both instances, my fabulous, patient, amazing angel of a mother was with me for that drama as well as for yesterday's drama. And, she got to experience the joy of helping me locate an apartment this week and pack up... when she thought she was coming down for a relaxed, fun visit!
I wonder if she's ready to throw in the towel and ask for another daughter... one that doesn't cause her so much worry and drama in her life?!

In any case, I never thought I would say it, but I was actually relieved to come back to this (despite its own challenges)

For the rest of the summer!

after all WE can do

2011-05-22T21:19:00.003-04:00

Tonight I attended a fireside by Brad Wilcox. I remember him from my EFY days and he is a great speaker! Actually, while I was there this evening I kind of felt like I was back at EFY attending a lecture by him and I loved it! EFY speakers talk to a sea of youth for about 40 minutes at a time. So, they always start with interesting/funny stories and have this amazing talent to keep your attention as they talk about an aspect of the gospel. In many ways, they bring the topic alive for you or help you understand it/think about it in ways you never have before.

Tonight was no exception.

The topic of his remarks centered on the scripture in 2 Nephi 25:23. "For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do."

He focused solely on the last phrase "After All we can do."

I know I have never really understood this phrase and have always thought that I just need to work, and work, and work some more before I even have a chance at returning to live with my Heavenly Father again. I think there is this fear that I'll miss the mark by 2 points or something because I didn't really do "ALL" that I could. And, gosh, even I know if that is true, at this point in my life, I KNOW I wouldn't be getting into heaven because I've definitely not done ALL I could up to this point! But, it's still a thought I've pondered because... don't we all need to continuously "Put our shoulder to the wheel and push along"?!!!

Anyway, this talk was obviously meant for me. Throughout his remarks, he gave some great examples of how it's the Savior who has offered us the opportunity to "TOGETHER" (the Savior and I walking together hand in hand) be saved. He gave this one example... a mother pays a piano teacher to teach her child. The child can't pay the mother back in money, and the teacher can't play for the child, but the child can learn from the teacher and practice in order to "pay" the mother back by gaining talent in the beautiful musical instrument. She doesn't expect absolute perfection in her child, but she wants him/her to practice, try their best, and use the help the piano teacher provides. That's the way it is for us. The Lord isn't asking us to just be mediocre and slack off because the Savior will do it all on his own... or to be absolutely perfect on our own. But, through the grace that the Savior has given us, he has provided the way that we can return to our Heavenly Father TOGETHER. First we must try our best to become all we can "be"... and then TOGETHER (the Savior and I) will be saved after all WE (The Savior and I) can do.

Ha, he did a much better job explaining it than I ever could. There's a reason why I am not an EFY speaker! But, at least it makes sense to me and that bring me peace of mind!

Ireland - March 2011

2011-05-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

I've come to accept the fact that my original plan to blog about my AMAZING trip to Ireland just isn't going to happen. This has taken a back seat to more pressing issues, but I still would like to post some of the beautiful pictures and give a brief summary... so here goes.

I landed in Dublin and immediately set off for adventure! The idea was to see as much as we could in the short week-long trip! I came prepared with raingear since that is the typical weather for this season... but was pleasantly surprised as the week progressed :)

However, when we landed it was cloudy. We had taken the overnight flight and I was exhausted, but we set off to our first stop - Malahide Castle. And, as we walked along the path to the castle the SUN came out! Or, really, a brief glimpse of it. I was excited none the less.

Malahide Castle

Then, off to Skerries Mills. It's a unique collection of two windmills and a watermill with an associated mill pond, and wetlands. The mills were used for grinding corn: wheat oats and barley - wind power complementing water power, particularly in times of drought dating back to 1538. And, they still work! We got a private tour because there were no other visitors there! (One of the benefits of visiting in the off-season!)

Windmill #2

After this, we were spent. And, after having spent lots of time getting lost, we decided to just go to our hotel and find dinner before dark. Sunday was bound to be another adventure!

Sunday - We checked out early and set off for Newgrange. It's a Megalithic Passage Tomb that was built around 3200 B.C.. In the picture it's the large dome structure in the back top left hand corner. This picture is from the museum for it. The kidney shaped mound covers an area of over one acre and is surrounded by 97 kerbstones, some of which are richly decorated with megalithic art. The 19 meter long inner passage leads to a cruciform chamber with a corbelled roof. It is estimated that the construction of the Passage Tomb at Newgrange would have taken a work force of 300 at least 20 years!
Next we went to the Hills of Tara. A large area containing ancient monuments, and a former sacred site for kingship rituals. But, also, really just an incredible amount of small "hills". Almost like bunny slopes for a young skier to learn on!

St. Peter's Church was located on the grounds as well and had an old graveyard associated with it.

Final tourist stop for the day was Clonmacnoise. This was one of the places I really wanted to visit because I had read about so much of its history. It was created between 545 and 548A.D. The monastery's location helped it become a major center of learning, religion, craftsmanship, and trade by the 9th century. It was visited by many scholars from all over Europe and many of the High Kings of Tara were buried here.

This was also my first introduction to a "High Cross" or "Standing Cross". It is a free-standing Christian cross made of stone and richly decorated with symbolism. They often feature a stone ring around the intersection forming a Celtic cross.

After touring the ruins of the monastery (so cool!!), we headed to our hotel located in a "city" right on the River Shannon where I had my first and last "pub" experience (there really is one on ever corner... or more) and was sad to find out that "Subway" restaurants in Ireland don't offer the same footlong deals that they do in America!

Monday - The sun is OUT! Wahoo. A beautiful day!
Off to Galway

So, Saturday we started out in Dublin (eastern Ireland) and by Monday morning we are all the way on the western side of Ireland in Galway (a college town on the water). Very pretty. Sadly many of the museums we wanted to see were closed... because they always are closed on Mondays, but we walked around town.

I thought this sign was funny.
But, made a good point.

And, yep. Thought this sign was a little unnecessary... isn't that obvious?

A colorful row of homes right on the water.
So pretty!

After Galway, we set off for our drive through the Burren, an Irish word meaning "great rock"... and in a minute you'll see why it's given that title!

But, first we drove through Kinvara to see the Dungaire Castle (picture above... it is thought to be the most photographed castle in Ireland... and I aided in that thinking!) and I saw my first thatched roof cottage roof. It was only sitting 2 feet from the main road. I would be scared a drunk driver would drive right in my living room! But, I guess the stone wall would prevent that! Smart thinking to put it there!

Me sitting next to the Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara. It sits right in Galway Bay and it's a very pretty area.

We drove past this sign on our drive to The Burren. Ha. It made me think of Boston, MA being just around the corner! Boston would fit right in, in Ireland. It's got crazy street layouts that don't connect like you think they should!
However, this is a picture of the typical crazy signage we had to figure out in Ireland. No wonder we got lost so many times. A slight breeze from the wind could turn the sign in a different direction!!
Entering the Burren... you can tell by the ROCKS! It has a Karst topography, which is a landscape shaped by the dissolution of layers of soluble bedrock. In 1651, Edmund Ludlow stated, "(Burren) is a country where there is not enough water to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury him...... and yet their cattle are very fat; for the grass growing in turfs of earth, of two or three foot square, that lie between the rocks, which are of limestone, is very sweet and nourishing."

So true! I also learned that many farmers would let their cows roam here during the winter months and saw herds of them as well!

Can you see the cattle at the top of the hill?

Looks like a storm was coming,
but we never had any rain!

Typical Ireland parking.
Totally would confuse me as to which side
of the road I was then driving on if I did this!

Poulnabrone Dolmen is a portal tomb in the Burren dating back to the Neolithic period, probably between 4200 BC to 2900 BC.

Temple Cronan, The Burren
A chapel built over a sacred spring, or "holy well"

Our final stop on the tour of The Burren was at the Kilmacdaugh Monastery. One of the significant features of this monastery is the slim 30 meter tall round tower! It's doorway is 7 meters above ground level!

The tall tower :)

We headed back to our hotel for dinner and some google mapping out our next day. (I highly recommend a GPS for anyone doing this in the future!)

Tuesday: We checked out of hotel to head south down to Cork, but stopped a few places along the way. First stop was the Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. So Cool!

The Folk Park brings to life a 19th century village. Here are some of the highlights:

This was a servant or peasants house... where, yes, their livestock lived in the house with them!

The cooking area
Some nice dishes... in my opinion!

Yes, that is a bedroom up there! Space was tight! They had a rolling ladder that was moved to the side of the room when not needed. Sounds like a perfect way to torture a sibling or punish a child that wouldn't behave. Stick them up there and move the ladder!

The CASTLE!
The Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times.
It even hosts medieval dinners for guests in the evening!

The inside dining hall.
I climbed all the way to the tippy-top!
It's a long way up some very narrow steps!

This was one of the houses in the village.
A pretty shade of blue, I thought!

The Rock of Cashel.
This is a tourist trap. It was expensive to get in to and not worth it at all! It is under renovation, but still. Very disappointing. Many of the things we saw for free were much cooler than this. The one great thing about it was the views from its grounds since it sits on a huge hill!

This is the Hore Abbey which was just below the Rock of Cashel. It was free to get in to and much cooler to walk through!

The rest of the day we continued our drive to Cork and to find our hotel. Ha, that was an adventure. And, I won't even mention how LOST we got trying to get back to our hotel after dinner. However, many, many Irish folks tried to help us find our way! One guy even walked over two blocks to meet us again to help us get on the right road. Ugh... an hour or so later we returned. It should have been an 8-10 min drive!

Wednesday: We set off for Skibbereen Heritage Center. This is a really cool museum about the Irish Potato Famine and does a great job of helping the guest understand life for the Irish people in that area in the 1840s. However, the other "gem" we found at this museum was their volunteer "Terri". She was absolutely LOVELY and so fun to talk to! And, she told us all the things we should stop and see on our drive over to the Cobh Heritage Center. All of the "gems" she told us to see were not in any tourist book! LOVE THAT!

The drive she took us on followed the coast. So, on this sunny day we were constantly in awe of the very pretty coastline and the small towns we saw along the way.

First stop: Drombeg Stone Circle
A.K.A. Ireland's Stone Henge

Amazing views as well

Standing between the male and female stone
and opposite the mid-point.

One of the pretty towns we drove through
So quaint and peaceful.
You would think no one lived there.

I just laughed every time I saw cars parked like this!

We spent the rest of the day at the Cobh Heritage Center and in Cobh.

Thursday: We had to make the long drive back to Dublin because we flew out early the next morning, but we stopped at a few places along the way! This was also one of my favorite's from the trip. Again, totally free to get in and walk around... and AMAZING views! Rock of Dunmase

I just LOVED the green and rolling hills!

And, then this is still me at the same place as the pictures above. Storms roll in quickly so we took the picture before it started pouring! We were so lucky with weather and never got caught in the rain when we were out and about.

The rest of Thursday we spent getting to our hotel by the Dublin airport and just enjoying one last evening in this beautiful country! I can't wait to go back!!!

Friends

2011-03-21T19:31:00.000-04:00

... a little side post until I can get my act together and blog about Ireland!

I've truly been blessed with many great friends throughout my life. I am a believer that certain people are placed in your life when you need them, and I think this is true of the friends I have met and made throughout my life.

"Friends are the most important ingredient in this recipe of life."

My college years at BYU were incredible. I loved it and am so grateful I had the opportunity to attend it. But, certain things happened during the Fall of my Sophomore year that rattled my comfort zone and the life I had built at BYU... and I found myself very alone and in need of friends.

I don't remember all the details of how it all happened, but I had known from the start of the semester that there was (what appeared to me) a very fun and active group of girls living on the other side of my apartment building in two different apartments. I didn't have enough courage to just go over and introduce myself and hope that they would invite me in. So, instead, I tried to strategically place myself in areas where I would possibly get a chance to know one or two of them. Ha, Ha! Embarrassing to admit now, but I REALLY wanted to be friends with them. They seemed SO COOL and that they were all having fun!

So, again, I don't remember all the silly things I tried, but the Lord was watching over me and I did become friends with all of them. And, this blessing dramatically affected the rest of my years at BYU for the better... as well as my life since then! I LOVE that even though many miles separate us, we are still able to keep in touch thank to the internet!

I ended up getting to know two of the girls (Maylene and Nancy) in one apartment first and this led to getting to know all of their friends as well! Months down the road, I ended up moving in with these two girls and the rest is history!

I was able to go to Phoenix about three years ago to see Maylene and her cute family, and ever since we've always talked about how I need to come back and visit, or she needs to come to the east! Finally, around Christmas time, Maylene decided 2011 was her year to come visit the east coast for the first time in her life! We talked about some dates, and decided that this past week would be the best time. Why put it off?!!!

Well, she flew home this afternoon and I can't even express how much fun and how wonderful it was to have her visit! We've both obviously grown up a bit... look a little older... and have become a lot more responsible than we were in college :) BUT talking with her and being with her is just like we never moved thousands of miles from each other!

A little summary of our trip:

I couldn't take off of work since I had all last week off, so Maylene got to hang out with me and the kids! She flew in Wed, but sadly I had to work late... and fortunately another of our BYU friends who lives in this area was free (!!) so they got to hang out. I felt bad I couldn't pick her up at the airport, but Maylene was excited to take a train and a subway for the first time!

I picked her up on Thursday morning and off we went to do some errands for the family. Thursday was a little atypical in the afternoon because I had to keep the kids out of the house after school until 7 pm - ish, so we played with them at the school playground and then came to my apartment for dinner and a movie! We ordered pizza and enjoyed some (scary!!) kid movies.

I asked one of the kids to take a picture of us. Shaky 8 year old hands...

After we dropped the kids off at home, we came back to watch the BYU game. Go Cougs! But, sadly, I am not able to stay up as late as I did in college and a few early mornings this week had me falling asleep at 8:40 PM - right at the start of the 2nd half! Maylene was able to watch the rest though :) She must have thought I lead a sad, sad life given how early I went to bed!

Friday was BUSY! The kids had their first day of spring break, and I had invited two of their friends to join us on our adventures that day - so we had 5 kids total (I was SO glad Maylene was there!). We had a ton of fun going to the Dulles Air and Space Museum and then to this "House of Bounce" where they have about ten huge inflatable structures for the kids to run around and jump on. They ran and played tag between the different bounce structures for almost 90 minutes! I was exhausted watching them. Fortunately, they have some gossip magazines for parents to sit and read while waiting... so Maylene and I caught up on all our celebrity gossip :)

We had a picnic lunch and then some down time before taking the twins to Tae Kwon Do. Then home for baths and dinner. It was a VERY full day, but it was so fun to have Maylene there. The kids loved her, and she kept me calm when my patience level was at zero :)

After work, I took Maylene to see the DC temple. It was a beautiful night! Inside the visitor center they had a really pretty art display.
And, then... the moment I had been waiting three (3!) years for. I was so fortunate that Maylene was willing to make her famous fajitas for us for dinner later on! Oh yum! No one can make them as good as her with all the fixins! She's a master chef in the kitchen! They were so yummy and there was enough for many leftovers! We ended our evening with a lovely chic flick :)

Saturday was another eventful day. Maylene had never been in to downtown DC. It was fun to see her look at everything and ask questions as we drove all over! There is quite a history here... and although I don't know much, it was fun to share with her what I had learned.

We knew we didn't have too much time, but we got to see the White House Visitor Center. Then, we walked over to the White House... or as close as you could get.

Look at the snipers or the secret service on the roof.
Security is TIGHT!

This is the "famous" garden that Michelle Obama has growing on the White House lawn to promote her healthy eating campaign.
Afterward, we headed over a few more blocks to the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Portrait Gallery. I had also never been here before, but was very impressed.

I seriously thought this person was REAL!

I had to walk up close to make sure she wasn't!Next it was on to lunch at one of the closet places to Mexican Food we have here in DC... "Baja Fresh!" Yum.

And, then on to Mount Vernon. The home of George and Martha Washington.

Again, since it was such a beautiful day we were so lucky to have the opportunity to walk ALL over it. They have done such a great job with the museum and the upkeep of all the history there in order to share it with visitors.

A wooden bridge we walked over to get to the slave quarters and farm.

The tomb of George Washington and 25 of his family members.

The actual tombs of GW and MW. GW on the right and MW on the left.

Maylene in front of the house right before we took a tour of it!

This is the view from the back of his home in Mount Vernon. So pretty!

Saturday night we went to my ward activity for a bit and then back home to watch more BYU basketball and another chic flick!

It was a very fun, eventful and unforgettable few days. I am so grateful for friends who... even though the miles may be far between us... when we talk or get together... it's like we were never apart! Saying goodbye was sad, but it makes me look fwd to our next visit even more!

And, Maylene is truly a friend that fits this category:

"A Friend is someone who knows all about you and loves you anyway!!!"

I'm still alive... and musings from today

2011-03-13T19:13:00.004-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted anything... and that was made even more aware to me when a friend emailed me to make sure I was still alive :)

I am.

That's a huge relief
(especially to me!)

But, I am just in awe that it's already the middle of March. WHEW. Where did the time go? I'm happy winter is on its way out (and even happier I spent the winter in DC and NOT Boston where they got pounded with snow!)

Life has been busy. I've had a nice balance of working a ton of hours, but then getting some significant time off while the family I work for took two vacations. The nice part of my job is that I also get to take vacations when they do (and not with them!) I went home for one of them, and went to here for the other week.

Ha, ha! Not Boston, but ...

THE EMERALD ISLE

And, it was absolutely wonderful! The best weather I could have asked for, the nicest people we met along the way, and I couldn't ask for a better, more patient, and fun travel companion :)

I will post more pictures soon. All I have to say is... I can't wait to go back! It was my first time overseas, and I decided to go only 5 weeks before... so a lot of my "spare" time was spent in reading travel websites and books about what to do and see! It was well worth it! We stayed away from most of the cities and "touristy" stuff and got to see/experience the true beauty of the country! It is simply a magical/beautiful country.

Coming home has been a bit hard with the time change, and the added bonus of "Springing our clocks forward an hour!", but life goes on. With the busyness of trip planning and work, I had kind of put my life on hold. Now that I am back... it's kind of staring me in the face and making me a bit fearful and anxious in certain areas. I read this talk today and it helped me refocus my thoughts, which brought me peace.

However, this quote stuck out to me like it was flashing on the page in bright lights and I've been pondering the reality of it all day:

Elder Neal A. Maxwell has said:

The issue for us is trusting God enough to trust also His timing. If we can truly believe He has our welfare at heart, may we not let His plans unfold as He thinks best? The same is true with the second coming and with all those matters wherein our faith needs to include faith in the Lord's timing for us personally, not just in His overall plans and purposes. [Even As I Am (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1982), 93]

I do believe that Heavenly Father has my best interest and welfare at heart, but it's hard not seeing the future from the present. Looking back, I can clearly see his hand in my life, but my faith often lacks and doubt enters when I think about the future. If he hasn't abandoned me yet... why would he now?

How can I just remember this and let faith replace my doubt?!

I'm just sayin'... this was written for me :)

2011-01-09T19:17:00.008-05:00

Here's the link:

Abandon Resolutions. Stop looking for a soulmate. Reject Positive Thinking... Our new year issue kicks off with advice on how to be a better person in 2011 (and it's not what you think!)

How have I done so far:

1. Abandon your new year resolutions - today
Well, since I never made any,
I am good to go with this one!

2. Stop Looking for your soulmate
Oh yes. Right now the only thing on my
"list of qualifications in my future husband" is
"must be male" :)
Very much downsized the list since
I made it in Young Womens!

3. Overhaul your information diet (but don't starve)
I'm OK with this... I think... but it does suck you in! Why do I care that someone's eating a sandwich for lunch and feels the need to tell the world about it?! Becoming more conscious of how much time I spend on it... but there is always room for improvement.

4. Self-improvement - Track your personal data
This is one I want to start doing.
Where does my day go?

5. Volunteer
Need to do more, but I already volunteer in the kids school during the week and try to when opportunities come up in my church. But, always can do more.

6. Reject Positive Thinking
I semi-agree with this one. I agree with the work ethic in that sometimes you "just need to do it" and not wait till you feel like it because I never feel like shoveling my car out, but I can only procrastinate so long. However, the only way I can finish a run sometimes is to tell myself over and over in my head "I can do this. I am almost there!" (Even if it's a lie... but hey, it keeps me going and I say it over and over so it kind of becomes like a song!) Positive Thinking can be beneficial, but I can also see how it can be damaging. Depends on the situation. But, I am not going to reject it completely.

7. Make dinner, make furniture, make effort
I TOTALLY agree with this one except when it comes to cooking. I usually feel like I've conquered the world when I assemble a piece of furniture or work hard at something. But, the feeling does not come with cooking. Sorry, I've tried. I have felt slight satisfaction when I am cooking for someone else... but never for just myself. How can I change that one?? Any ideas?

8. Don't take frugality too far
Totally agree with this one as well. Life is passing quickly and if I don't take the opportunity now... when is it going to be a better time to let's say... jump out of a plane! Or, go in a hot air balloon! I'm never going to regret leaving work early one day... but I can think of many things I will look back on and regret if I don't do them!

9. Befriend your friends' friends
Totally agree with this one as well... working on it

10. Creativity - make one small change to your workplace
Have a plan for this and I need to implement it! Since I don't have an "office space" and can't change the family's house... I'll focus on my living space. My roommate gave me an old desk. I have the primer and sand paper to start refurbishing it... but keep putting it off! I'll go back and read numbers 6 & 7 now.

So, maybe this post will be my new years resolution (which I won't abandon!)... and I'll report how I did next December. Here we go 2011!

It's the MOST wonderful time of the year!

2010-12-29T20:56:00.006-05:00

I LOVE the Fall season and PART of Winter. I say PART, because it doesn’t even start until December 20^th something and then I ONLY like winter up through January 1^st!

I love Fall for the bright and vibrant colors of the changing leaves, pumpkins and other such things relating to the harvest season, the slight Chill that enters the air AND for college football season! Thanksgiving is also a wonderful time to spend with family and friends and to think of the many blessings in my life.

But, I think I love the month of December more than any other month! I LOVE the Christmas Holiday season!! And, here’s why. My top ten:

10. The "cheer" and excitement in the air... for the most part people are nicer this time of year!

9. Holiday movies that bring back memories of my childhood (like Frosty the Snowman) or just make me laugh and laugh (ELF!)

8. Receiving Christmas cards in the mail with pictures and updates on friends/extended family that I don't get to talk to as often

7. Decorating and the holiday decorations and sitting in front of a fire place with the lights off except for the tree

6. The yummy food and treats :)... and the holiday parties!

5. The chance to think about what others need and buy it for them without them wondering why you did it

4. A quiet day at home with family/friends and knowing I don't have ANY reason to be running errands or out and about

3. The Music!! I could listen all day long. I have a special place in my heart for O Holy Night and Carol of the Bells!

2. Family coming together or talking for a while on the phone

And, drumroll please...

The number 1 reason:
1. Jesus Christ: He has brought meaning to my (and everyone's) mortal existence and has given us the gift of eternal life! His is the perfect example of how I should live and it is because of him that I can feel hope, peace and joy not only during the Christmas season... but all year long!

There’s just some “magic” about this season… and I think it comes down to people letting the “Spirit of Christ” enter their heart... whether they believe in Him or not! It changes people and I think it’s a ripple effect. The change in one person’s heart and outlook, changes another, etc.

This December was just incredible for me and I feel very blessed. Here are some pictures to show some of the highlights, but really, when it comes down to it, the magic and wonder of Christmas is, for me, everything included in my top ten list… with number one being the best!

A couple of friends of mine organized the most elegant and fun Christmas party I have been to (ever, maybe). It was held at a beautiful home in Potomac, MD where there were more rooms on the first floor than rooms in my whole house! It was beautifully decorated for the holidays, and there were place settings for all 30 of us! I felt it such an honor to be invited!

We were told to wear our "best dress". Well, that slightly panicked me because I don't own a dress! Crazy, huh? I own lots of skirts, nice sweaters and shirts, but no dresses, especially no fancy ones. I always have problems finding one that is the right length and not too short. It seems like the cute knee length dresses always fall way to short for me. And, because I wear jeans and warmups to work, my wardrobe has not needed any adjustments! So, I decided to give it another try and headed to Macy's on a Saturday in December. Me and a gazillion other people, but OH - I found a dress (2 actually!) And adorable black shoes and jewelry too! A definite splurge, but a very fun one! And, I got enough compliments at the party to make it worth EVERY cent!

We were asked to bring either a talent to share or a dessert. The choice was easy for me and I started to look through my cookbooks! Others were adventurous...

Practicing for the debut of (as I call it) the "Ho, Ho, Ho" song. Hilarious

Friends awaiting the talent portion of the evening.

Michelle - Looking adorable as a reindeer!

Chad and Chelsea taking their turn to participate in the "Ho, Ho, Ho" song!

Russ and Brad then taking their turn too!
Definitely one of the hits from the evenings talents.

These were the four girls who were the masterminds behind the party... and shared their special talent as well (learned and mastered that same day!)

Caroling around the piano

Chelsea, Michelle and I

Now transitioning. My employment this year as a nanny, means so much more than just tending children! I have many varied tasks and responsibilities, and one of them was decorating for Christmas. I will NEVER forget my reaction when I first saw this tree and the **** I went through in putting lights on it. I can look back now and laugh (a little), but I will never forget it!

I just don't think this picture does the tree justice! The room has vaulted ceilings, and as you can see it's taller the bookshelves, which are probably at the normal height of a ceiling. I had to use a ladder to get to the tippy top. It's also about 6 feet wide... maybe 7. It had to be delivered by a special truck! Despite my initial interaction with it, it was quite beautiful in the end. But, the entire time I envisioned a squirrel jumping out of it like in the movie National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation!

Christmas EVE!

I invited my mom, brother and sister in law over to the house where I work since they were out of town. We enjoyed dinner, sitting around the fire, and then a fun game afterwards that my sister in law introduced us to! It was such a wonderful evening! I love time with family!

Mom by the ever-famous tree!

Evan :)

Then, this is the tree in my apartment! My roommate totally decked out our kitchen and family room and I loved it! It was fun to sit by the tree at night with the lights off and just enjoy the beauty of it! So... this is me in my pjs all full of excitement for Santa to come :)

Christmas Day!
and
Turkey DISASTER!

I had a PERFECT Christmas holiday. It was quiet, but just wonderful. My brother and Madison came over later in the morning to open gifts. I got some things I had asked for, as well as some very nice pieces of clothing my sister in law had picked out!

Madison and Evan also wanted to host Christmas dinner. They had invited Madison's cousin and her family to join as well. All my mom and I had to do was bring the turkey! Easier said than done. My mom has made many turkeys in her motherhood years... no sweat right?

Well, it would have turned out perfectly if my oven had 1. Heated up & 2. Not turned itself off TWICE! We didn't realize number 1 till after an hour of cooking. And, we didn't realize number 2 until 2 hours into the cooking!

So, needless to say, 30 minutes before we are supposed to be at Evan's, I call and say we're going to be 30 min late. My mom and I take the turkey out of the oven and slice it into pieces. We then cook those pieces on the stove top like it's chicken breast! Pretty creative! We only cook enough for our dinner and then I take the basically raw turkey out to the dumpster.

Raw turkey getting sliced!

FORTUNATELY, dinner guests were very flexible and not "die-hard must have" drumstick and gravy or dark meat kind of people to make their Christmas dinner a success! Madison had made everything else for the dinner and it was all wonderful! We had fun getting to know her cousin and her cousins family and spending time just talking. So nice! They had a cute little 6 month old baby who was the star of the evening as well!

Mom and Evan setting the table
My mom isn't that short... he's just really tall!

Evan and Madison's Christmas tree!

It's really unique in that 98% of the ornaments are all hearts. In her family, each child has a theme for ornaments they are given over the years. She is a heart. They have labeled Evan with ships! So, there is one ship ornament on their tree and one White House 2010 ornament (which I gave them.) Every other ornament is a heart!

Evan and Madison

Family :)

I am always a bit melancoly when the holidays are over. Such a wonderful time of year. Fortunately for me, I had the week in between Christmas and New Years off... and was able to come home to PA for some of it! There really is NO PLACE LIKE HOME!... But, Christmas is where your family is, and that was what made it wonderful! Maybe some year we can ALL be together instead of spread out between Washington, Colorado and DC!

A quote I want to remember

2010-12-26T18:18:00.005-05:00

Overheard someone saying at a coffee shop while I was getting hot chocolate: Gets me thinking!

"I don't want to do something I don't enjoy even if it pays well because money can come back, my day cannot"- Random dude at Starbucks

Finding Christ in Christmas

2010-12-05T15:03:00.006-05:00

It's the Christmas Season and I love listening to Christmas music in my car. Today was no exception as I headed off to church. It was a great 3 hours worth of meetings, lessons and ultimately... people just talking about Christ and their love for him.

On my way home, I was thinking about what I had just partaken of at church and about my love for the Savior. I wasn't really listening to the music until I stopped at a light and tuned in to this song. Here it is on youtube

Here are the lyrics:
How Many Kings by Downhere

Follow the star to a place unexpected
Would you believe after all we’ve projected
A child in a manger

Lowly and small, the weakest of all
Unlikeliness hero, wrapped in his mothers shawl
Just a child
Is this who we’ve waited for?

Cause how many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?

Bringing our gifts for the newborn savior
All that we have whether costly or meek
Because we believe
Gold for his honor and frankincense for his pleasure
And myrrh for the cross he’ll suffer
Do you believe, is this who we’ve waited for?
It’s who we’ve waited for

How many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?
Only one did that for me

All for me
All for you
All for me
All for you

....

So, yet again, I was in tears listening to these lyrics in the car. Recently, I was reading a talk about the Savior from our church's 2009 Christmas Devotional. Here's a link to it: In summary, it's about "Seeing the Savior"... or "Seeing Christ in Christmas". President Uctdorf describes how the Savior didn't appear as many thought He would when He was here on earth. He was born in a humble stable to a carpenter. He was not given a worldly education. He was not wealthy and didn't hold a political office. He walked among the poor and humble.

Many yearned for the day the Christ would come... but, yet, when He walked among them they were blinded by their interpretation of what He would be... that they missed seeing him. They remained self-righteous and didn't let the Spirit touch their hearts.

As the song states:

"Follow the star to a place unexpected
Would you believe after all we’ve projected
A child in a manger

Lowly and small, the weakest of all
Unlikeliness hero, wrapped in his mothers shawl
Just a child
Is this who we’ve waited for?

I got to thinking... If I had lived here when the Savior was on the earth, would I have been blinded by my own vision of who He was and by my own personal pursuits? And, even today? Do I let the glitz and glamor of the season get in the way of me realizing WHAT I am really celebrating? Do my lips talk of the Savior, but my actions lead to worldly pursuits?

Because, SERIOUSLY:

In answer to all of these: None that I can think of...

But ONE

Only one did that for me!!!

All for me
All for you
All for me
All for you!!!!

I am SO GRATEFUL for my elder brother, Savior, and friend. I am so GRATEFUL for those who DID see the Savior for who he was when he lived here on the earth, and that we can read about their journey and experience with him. I am so GRATEFUL that my Savior died for ME so that I could return to him again. I am SO GRATEFUL for the Christmas season every year to take the time to seek "the Lamb of God, the King of Glory, the Everlasting Light of the World, the Great Hope of Mankind, the Savior and Redeemer of our souls!"

A "Friendsgiving"

2010-12-04T16:15:00.002-05:00

As one of my friends put it so nicely, this Thanksgiving was a "Friendsgiving" and it was absolutely wonderful!

Martha Stewart would have been impressed and I think that was their goal :) These 3 fabulous and talented women got together to host a Thanksgiving dinner this year... and let nothing that might seem "over the top" get in their way! Nothing was left behind! They could host the next show for Martha. Aprons and all.

Sleep-deprived and still all smiles
Melissa, Chelsea and Michele

A little background on how I ended up here...

Originally, my mom, brother and sister-in-law were going to get together for a family dinner. A month before the big day, it ended up being best for my mom to fly out to Colorado to spend some time with her grandchildren while their mom had to travel for work for most of November. So, then we were down to just the three of us...

But, about a week before the big day, my brother calls to ask how much I would hate him if he went out of town with my sister-in-law for Thanksgiving! I had to laugh at how he approached it, but of course I said it was OK with me. Thanksgiving, ever since I left for BYU, has been more of a "Friendsgiving" than a Family Thanksgiving. Now, if this had been Christmas and they deserted me, I would have not been OK with it, but Thanksgiving is OK. Christmas seems more family-centered in my opinion, and besides, all of my friends would have been home with their families so I wouldn't have had a place to go anyway!

Well, here is a picture of the impressive set-up. We had "chargers"! (Yep... didn't even know what those were until I asked on Thanksgiving! And, for those who don't know, they are the largest plate beneath all the others in a table setting). We had butter cut out in fall shapes, a printed menu at each spot, a placecard in the shape of a boat (to symbolize the pilgrims!), candles, scented pinecones and other such decorations, wine glasses (for the Martinelli's!!), etc. You think of it... we had it! I was so impressed! Now mom... don't be offended... but this was probably the nicest Thanksgiving table set-up that I've ever been to!

Here's a picture of my setting
See the "1621 ship" with my name on it?
Cool, huh?!!!!

The food was incredible, the company was fun (there were about 15 of us), and it made me realize how much I feel like DC is now my "home". I feel comfortable here. I never felt this in my 6 years in Boston despite the many blessings I received when I was there. I met some incredible people, had wonderful friends and roommates, and opportunities abound... but it just never felt like "home" or where I belonged.

I am so grateful for the friends I have here, the jobs I've had and have, and for living in such an area that's richly blessed with diversity, history and opportunity.

Thanksgiving day here in DC was overcast and a bit chilly, but warmth and merriment abounded with flowers as pretty as these and smiles and beautiful as Melissa's!

Happy Friendsgiving!!!

A visit to our Nation's Capitol Building!

2010-11-24T09:43:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I had the opportunity to take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building with a group of women from my church congregation. One of them is the niece of Senator Bob Bennet (R, UT) and he had agreed to take us on a tour.

I was also lucky to be accompanied by a male! Yes. The only male. But, I should mention that he is about 9 inches tall and is flat. Yes, flat.

Have you ever heard of Flat Stanley? You can read more about him here but long story short, he was flattened by a bulletin board falling on him and decides to take advantage of his flattened state... by sliding under doors, etc. Well, he can also go through the mail, so my friend's daughters class sent him all over the country/world this year to see what knew experiences he could have. They asked his hosts to take pictures with him and send them back with some additional information about their town. What better place to take him in DC than the U.S. Capitol!

And, here he is.
He was very polite and well-behaved
the entire time!

This is another cool picture of the Capitol and the Washington Monument I found online and wanted to post.

Well, more women showed up than expected (over 80 of us!), so we had to split into two groups. But, before we split, Senator Bennet shared with us some of his favorite memories of working in that building. His is retiring from government service at the end of this term (in January), so it was really neat to hear from him because he has served in government for so long! He shared stories such as... remembering exactly where he was on the Senate side of the building when he found out that President Kennedy has been shot. He also had the privilege of escorting President Bush and Cheney out of the Capitol building in front of 4 million watching viewers during the inauguration of President Obama.

Here are some of the cool things I learned and saw:

The Rotunda: It is a circular space that serves as a gallery of paintings and sculpture of American historical figures and events.

Picture of the upper walls.
Very intricate art detail.

The apotheses. The very top of the ceiling.
Everything painted has meaning.
Learn more about it here.

The Senate and House literally split the rotunda right down the middle. Both have control over who lies there for viewing after their death and I thought it was really cool that they lean the casket to one side if a member of senate/house!

Brigham Young Statue: For UTAH!

The concept of a National Statuary Hall originated in the middle 19th century, even before the completion of the present House wing in 1857. At that time, the House of Representatives moved into its new larger chamber and the old vacant chamber became a thoroughfare between the Rotunda and the House wing.

It was decided that all the States would provide and furnish two statues, in marble or bronze, of deceased persons who were citizens thereof, and historically renown or distinguished for their civic or military services

All state statues were placed in National Statuary Hall. However, the aesthetic appearance of the Hall began to suffer from overcrowding after 65 statues were put in there… so then they decided to spread them out in other areas of the Capitol. I was born the year Ronald Regan started his presidency and I have always admired him even though I didn't know much about what he did while he was serving his two terms! I saw this statue and I had to take a picture. But then, our tour guide told us his statue was unique in that a layer on the bottom contained some of the pieces of the Berlin Wall because he played a significant role in that coming down. If you look closely in the picture, you can see the change in color near the top. It was also neat to say that I touched part of the Berlin Wall on this trip!
We also saw the Old Supreme Court room which is located in the Capitol. It was used from 1810-1860

Finally, this is a picture of the room where Congress meets
although, I didn't take this picture!

Some other cool, cool facts I learned about the Capitol Building!

1. Construction began in 1793 and the original building was finished in 1826, but it was being used long before that. The first Congress met on November 17, 1800

2. No building in DC can be more than 13 stories high! There is a law stating this because they want to be able to always have a view of the Capitol and the Washington monument. The top of the U.S. Capitol is 209 feet lower than the Washington Monument.

3. No one is buried in the Capitol, but there was a tomb area created for George Washington's body! However, after reviewing his will they knew his expressed wish was to be buried at Mount Vernon. So much for all that work to create the tomb. Lesson learned to check things first!

It was awesome to have this opportunity! I am so glad to live so close to our nation's capital! Flat Stanley enjoyed it as well and is now on his way back to some 2nd graders in Arizona with pictures from his visit!

A sad farewell... and a new beginning...

2010-11-14T16:03:00.005-05:00

To my ever faithful, hardworking, humble

Toaster Oven

You've lived through the past few years with me, traveled through many states, worked hard for me at all hours of the day and you have never failed me.

But, the time has come. Not necessarily by my wish, or plan, for you. It seems too soon. I was given you by a fabulous roommate in Boston, after you served her well for so many years. I knew I could always count on you to toast my bread to perfection, and reheat my pizza better than any microwave could ever do.

However, the time has come for us to move on from each other... basically because my mom thinks you're going to burn down my apartment one day (she doesn't know you as well as I do and she never learned the phrase "Don't judge a book by its cover.")... and because it did smell like smoke in our hallway when I used you this past week (but I think that was most likely coming from a neighbors apartment since I'll never lose faith in you!!)

You've served me well and I will truly miss you. Thank you for helping to make so many yummy meals for me! I hope you enjoy your rest and find friends you knew from your manufacturing days as you join them in the junkyard.

Moving on...

Meet my new friend! We haven't had the chance to bond yet over a meal, but will later on today.

The Cuisinart® Convection/Broiler Toaster Oven features the convenience of Total Touch® touchpad controls, consistent shade control, and an Exact Heat™ sensor to maintain precise oven temperature. And its large enough to fit a 12" pizza!

I'm excited to learn what "consistent shade control" means for when I toast my bread because I never knew light was a factor in getting the perfect toast! I am also excited for the muscles I will build lifting my new friend when I put it away after each use because it weighs 22.8 lds... but here's to roasting my first small chicken! ... and maybe now I'll be inspired to actually cook something :)

Past roommates and family will understand why I just wrote that! :)