1. An Umu from Tisa' Bar & Grill.
2. Two Taro
3. Three Breadfruit
4. Four Coconuts
5. Five Cans of Pisupo
6. Six Turkey Tail
7. Seven Large Valima
8. Eight Lava
9. Nine Aloha Shirts
10. Ten Tapa Cloths
11. Eleven Kava Bowls
12. Twelve Fine Mats
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
12 Days of a Samoan Christmas
I experienced one Christmas while I was living and working in American Samoa. During that time, I wrote and recorded the song, "The 12 Days of a Samoan Christmas." It was played on the local radio station, KHJ, as well as performed live at several Christmas programs. Here are the 12 days.
1. An Umu from Tisa' Bar & Grill.
2. Two Taro
3. Three Breadfruit
4. Four Coconuts
5. Five Cans of Pisupo
6. Six Turkey Tail
7. Seven Large Valima
8. Eight Lava
9. Nine Aloha Shirts
10. Ten Tapa Cloths
11. Eleven Kava Bowls
12. Twelve Fine Mats
1. An Umu from Tisa' Bar & Grill.
2. Two Taro
3. Three Breadfruit
4. Four Coconuts
5. Five Cans of Pisupo
6. Six Turkey Tail7. Seven Large Valima
8. Eight Lava
9. Nine Aloha Shirts
10. Ten Tapa Cloths
11. Eleven Kava Bowls
12. Twelve Fine Mats
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
First Christmas Card
This is a copy of our first Christmas card together. It's not much...but it's something. Sorry to all those who didn't get a hard copy of it--we'd be glad to send you one if you'd really like it. Just make sure we have your address.
Thank you to all who sent us Christmas cards and letters. I'll show you our collection in a few days. Christmas cards make me all happy and excited! I love all of you!
I tried to make it similar to our wedding announcements with the same fonts, as close to the same colors as I could get, and our monogram. Sorry the quality isn't that great here on the blog. It's a Word document, converted to a pdf, converted to a jpg. I think if you click on it you can read it better though.
Merry Christmas!!!!!
Thank you to all who sent us Christmas cards and letters. I'll show you our collection in a few days. Christmas cards make me all happy and excited! I love all of you!
I tried to make it similar to our wedding announcements with the same fonts, as close to the same colors as I could get, and our monogram. Sorry the quality isn't that great here on the blog. It's a Word document, converted to a pdf, converted to a jpg. I think if you click on it you can read it better though.
Monday, December 22, 2008
I Love Neil Diamond
I love Mark too, but I love Neil Diamond. Ok, here is the story.
On December 10, we had our work Christmas lunch. I happened to sit at the table with the new commissioner (Bill), my great friend (Marisa), my boss (Lucille), and another awesome lady (Peggy). The Commish asked all of us to tell him what to say for his little talk he had to give. We ended up giving him some great ideas: like balance a plant on his head (Marisa), sing his talk (Marisa), and give a quote by Mark Twain (me—definitely not as funny as the other ideas).
After lunch was over and the Commish had delivered his plant-less, singing-less speech, he came back to our table and chatted with us a bit more. He asked us how we felt about Neil Diamond.
I told him the truth: I LOVE NEIL DIAMOND! Marisa said something similar, but I was listening more intently to what the Commish had to say than to Marisa’s answer. He also asked how our husbands felt about Mr. Diamond. I told him my husband was a fan. Marisa said hers, sadly, was not. Turned out, the Commish had purchased TEN (10) tickets to the Neil Diamond concert (December 19th). He was looking for people to take with him.
I immediately volunteered myself. Marisa did the same. The Commish said he would get back to us.
Well, that set Marisa and me on a campaign trail. We started by publicizing our love for Neil Diamond with pictures plastered on our cubicles. Next, Peggy and her husband helped us by making us buttons to wear. We wore our buttons even on the days the Commish wasn’t in the office. We didn’t want him to think we’re just fair-weather friends. Because we’re not. We love Neil Diamond.
On Tuesday, the Commish gave Marisa and me a Neil Diamond DVD. Marisa gave it to me, after she watched it. It’s one of my favorite Christmas presents already.
Wednesday, December 17th, Bill announced to Marisa and me that he would indeed invite us to be his guests at the concert. He also informed us that he didn’t have enough tickets for our husbands. Marisa was not sad, I was only a little sad. Just a little—I was too excited I was going! Woohooooooo!!!!
Mark said he would find something to keep him busy Friday night while I was out seeing the one and only Mr. Neil Diamond!
Friday, December 19th, as I was getting ready to go home from work, the Commissioner happened to see me. He asked if my husband would still be interested in going to the concert. I said, “Yes.” He told me to hang around for a bit because one of his other guests might not be able to attend. He said the phone call was forthcoming and to just hold on a bit.
So, I did. About a half hour later, the call came.
GLAD TIDINGS! For me, anyway. Mark could go!
Yes, Bill gave me TWO tickets to the Neil Diamond concert. Mark had to change his plans, but I think he had fun. I know I had fun. I had so much fun I could hardly contain myself.
Our seats were great. They weren’t too far back, they weren’t too far up, and they weren’t in a weird location. They were GREAT seats.
The Commish got a kick out of me singing and dancing, but that’s what a silly girl like me does when she goes to one of her favorites’ concerts.
Mr. Diamond was fantastic. I loved every minute. I also loved how the average age of the attendees was approximately 95. Okay, maybe that is a exaggerating a little. Maybe. I also really liked his simple stage. It changed colors and moved a bit. It wasn't too flashy and it added the right aura to the whole performance.
Marisa and I both wore our beautiful buttons. There was a certain bond with Mr. Diamond by wearing them.
I waited, and waited, and waited, for “Coming to America.” He finally sang it as one of his three encore numbers. It was beautiful. Just fantastic.
On December 10, we had our work Christmas lunch. I happened to sit at the table with the new commissioner (Bill), my great friend (Marisa), my boss (Lucille), and another awesome lady (Peggy). The Commish asked all of us to tell him what to say for his little talk he had to give. We ended up giving him some great ideas: like balance a plant on his head (Marisa), sing his talk (Marisa), and give a quote by Mark Twain (me—definitely not as funny as the other ideas).
After lunch was over and the Commish had delivered his plant-less, singing-less speech, he came back to our table and chatted with us a bit more. He asked us how we felt about Neil Diamond.
I told him the truth: I LOVE NEIL DIAMOND! Marisa said something similar, but I was listening more intently to what the Commish had to say than to Marisa’s answer. He also asked how our husbands felt about Mr. Diamond. I told him my husband was a fan. Marisa said hers, sadly, was not. Turned out, the Commish had purchased TEN (10) tickets to the Neil Diamond concert (December 19th). He was looking for people to take with him.
I immediately volunteered myself. Marisa did the same. The Commish said he would get back to us.
Well, that set Marisa and me on a campaign trail. We started by publicizing our love for Neil Diamond with pictures plastered on our cubicles. Next, Peggy and her husband helped us by making us buttons to wear. We wore our buttons even on the days the Commish wasn’t in the office. We didn’t want him to think we’re just fair-weather friends. Because we’re not. We love Neil Diamond.
On Tuesday, the Commish gave Marisa and me a Neil Diamond DVD. Marisa gave it to me, after she watched it. It’s one of my favorite Christmas presents already.
Wednesday, December 17th, Bill announced to Marisa and me that he would indeed invite us to be his guests at the concert. He also informed us that he didn’t have enough tickets for our husbands. Marisa was not sad, I was only a little sad. Just a little—I was too excited I was going! Woohooooooo!!!!
Mark said he would find something to keep him busy Friday night while I was out seeing the one and only Mr. Neil Diamond!
Friday, December 19th, as I was getting ready to go home from work, the Commissioner happened to see me. He asked if my husband would still be interested in going to the concert. I said, “Yes.” He told me to hang around for a bit because one of his other guests might not be able to attend. He said the phone call was forthcoming and to just hold on a bit.
So, I did. About a half hour later, the call came.
GLAD TIDINGS! For me, anyway. Mark could go!
Yes, Bill gave me TWO tickets to the Neil Diamond concert. Mark had to change his plans, but I think he had fun. I know I had fun. I had so much fun I could hardly contain myself.
Our seats were great. They weren’t too far back, they weren’t too far up, and they weren’t in a weird location. They were GREAT seats.
The Commish got a kick out of me singing and dancing, but that’s what a silly girl like me does when she goes to one of her favorites’ concerts.
Mr. Diamond was fantastic. I loved every minute. I also loved how the average age of the attendees was approximately 95. Okay, maybe that is a exaggerating a little. Maybe. I also really liked his simple stage. It changed colors and moved a bit. It wasn't too flashy and it added the right aura to the whole performance.
Marisa and I both wore our beautiful buttons. There was a certain bond with Mr. Diamond by wearing them.
I waited, and waited, and waited, for “Coming to America.” He finally sang it as one of his three encore numbers. It was beautiful. Just fantastic.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Christmas Decorations
We don't have a lot of Christmas decorations. But, I really like what we do have. We don't have a lot because (1) there isn't anywhere to store a lot and (2) there isn't anywhere to display a lot.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
I came into the marriage with most of this stuff.
* We picked out our stockings together a couple weeks ago. I like 'em a lot!
* I bought the tree when I lived in Virginia, with most of the decorations.
* We did buy "our" first Christmas ornament on our honeymoon.
* I bought the Indian nativity in Albuquerque when I was in graduate school.
* My aunt gave me the nesting snowmen a long time ago, she didn't want them.
* My parents gave me the white nativity when I was a freshman at BYU. I've loved it ever since, even if I have had roommates repeatedly break the ears off the animals.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Marriage advise from a friend
I was chatting with one of my friends about what he learned from his marriage and divorce and this is what he said:
"Marriage taught me that you can be complete and one and whole, if you choose...and divorce taught me that you can give up and give in on the most amazing event of your life because of selfishness and pride."
I think it sums it up quite well.
"Marriage taught me that you can be complete and one and whole, if you choose...and divorce taught me that you can give up and give in on the most amazing event of your life because of selfishness and pride."
I think it sums it up quite well.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Not Ashamed
This year, I've typed up a little Christmas note to send with Christmas cards. "Christmas" being the key word.
I made more notes than I have Christmas cards, because I plan on passing them out here at work. But then I started thinking...maybe I'll offend someone. I mean, I'm not sure of everyone's religious views here at work. I know for sure there is one lady who is Jewish and there are a couple people that I don't know at all if they even are religious. Should I make them special cards that say, "Happy Holidays"?
So, that was my thought.... I haven't passed them out yet. But, I've been thinking about that for a little while. (Yes, I really was thinking this. So much thought over something so many of you probably have never considered.) My conclusion is.........
I'm not ashamed. (I am, however, ashamed that it took me so long to ponder over this.)
I am going to pass my little Christmas notes out, as originally intended--because I am not ashamed of my belief in my Savior, Jesus Christ. I want people to know that I honor Him this month. I want people to know that I love Him. I want people to know that I think about Him.
I'm not ashamed of my beliefs. And, I have been thinking about the "offensive" thing too. The way I see it, I actually won't be offending someone because I'm not telling them what to believe. I'm not telling them they have to agree with me. I'm just telling them that I honor my Savior. In fact, I respect their religious beliefs (or lack of religion), if that's how they choose to live. I respect them, they respect me.
I am not ashamed of my Savior, Jesus Christ. And to you I say, "Merry Christmas!"
I made more notes than I have Christmas cards, because I plan on passing them out here at work. But then I started thinking...maybe I'll offend someone. I mean, I'm not sure of everyone's religious views here at work. I know for sure there is one lady who is Jewish and there are a couple people that I don't know at all if they even are religious. Should I make them special cards that say, "Happy Holidays"?
So, that was my thought.... I haven't passed them out yet. But, I've been thinking about that for a little while. (Yes, I really was thinking this. So much thought over something so many of you probably have never considered.) My conclusion is.........
I'm not ashamed. (I am, however, ashamed that it took me so long to ponder over this.)
I am going to pass my little Christmas notes out, as originally intended--because I am not ashamed of my belief in my Savior, Jesus Christ. I want people to know that I honor Him this month. I want people to know that I love Him. I want people to know that I think about Him.
I'm not ashamed of my beliefs. And, I have been thinking about the "offensive" thing too. The way I see it, I actually won't be offending someone because I'm not telling them what to believe. I'm not telling them they have to agree with me. I'm just telling them that I honor my Savior. In fact, I respect their religious beliefs (or lack of religion), if that's how they choose to live. I respect them, they respect me.
I am not ashamed of my Savior, Jesus Christ. And to you I say, "Merry Christmas!"
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Milo, the Puppy
As I have received a few questions regarding Milo, I will give a brief explanation.Mark and I want a dog. We haven't sought one out, though, because of our current situation (that of living in a condo on the second of four floors and both of us working full-time).
But, Mark's boss's daughter has bred their labrador with their (full-size) poodle. So, she had these labradoodles she was trying to find a home for. She asked Mark if we'd like to "test drive" Milo.
We didn't do well with him. He cried the whole time we were gone on our date (which was about three hours). And then he didn't let us sleep either. At first we put him in the bathroom. He cried. Mark gave in and let him come in our room--but not on the bed. He cried. Then Mark let him sleep on the bed--until he started chewing on us and the bed spread. So, Mark got up about 4:30 and took him out into the living room so I could sleep and so we wouldn't bother the neighbors.
That's why I'm telling you we're not ready for that kind of commitment. :-D
We took him back on Saturday. We didn't last 24 hours with him. Besides, we couldn't have kept him any way, our HOA won't allow dogs over a certain height, and he would definitely be too big as a grown dog.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
A Handful of Recent Events
(1) Friday night, Mark brought a puppy home. Apparently, Mark and I are not ready for a puppy. We had a date already planned--and the puppy cried the whole time we were gone. Also, the puppy would not let us sleep. Us--parents (puppy or otherwise)? Ha! Oh dear........ What a sad realization.
(2) Saturday afternoon we went to the National Junior College Football Championship game at the Rio Tinto Stadium. It was great. Somehow, I got hooked up with access to FIVE suites. They were STOCKED with food: sandwiches, hot dogs, buffalo chicken wings, potato chips, chips and salsa.... Too bad Snow College lost. It was a weird way to end the game. But, it was exciting nonetheless.
(3) Sunday night was the First Presidency Christmas Devotional. We're so lucky to be living in a time of prophets and apostles. And, we're so lucky to know about our Savior, Jesus Christ.
(4) Monday morning, I took four hours off work to go do Christmas shopping without Mark. Let me just tell you that 8:00 shopping on a Monday morning at Wal-Mart is actually quite delightful. I highly recommend it. And, I got all my Christmas shopping done. Check! I even had time to wrap most of it before I went to work. All the wrapping paper under the tree is lovely!
(5) Monday night, while I was cooking dinner, and just after Mark had got home, we got a knock on the door and then we heard running. I opened the door and found a can of orange tulips with a note, "To Andrea. From Your Secret Admirer." I wouldn't let Mark have a peak to see who it was that brought me the flowers. I would hate to have my surprise ruined. I feel so loved though! :-D They are sooooooo pretty!
Friday, December 05, 2008
Jingle your Bells
So, on Wednesday we went to the exclusive Stake Leadership Christmas Social for all those with Stake Callings and in Bishoprics.
The dinner was ... well.... odd. The food was normal, just cold. We ate ham (cold), green beans (cold), and rolls. The salad was supposed to be there, but never arrived.
For our entertainment pleasure, a "Bell Ringing" group came and performed several Christmas songs. For one song they asked for audience participation, so of course I volunteered. They passed out some bells (I got b flat) with a corresponding book. The song was "Oh Come all Ye Faithful" and about 90% of the words were circled, which was the clue to ring your bell, so I was the star of the show... just the way I like it!
The dinner was ... well.... odd. The food was normal, just cold. We ate ham (cold), green beans (cold), and rolls. The salad was supposed to be there, but never arrived.
For our entertainment pleasure, a "Bell Ringing" group came and performed several Christmas songs. For one song they asked for audience participation, so of course I volunteered. They passed out some bells (I got b flat) with a corresponding book. The song was "Oh Come all Ye Faithful" and about 90% of the words were circled, which was the clue to ring your bell, so I was the star of the show... just the way I like it!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Friday, November 28, 2008
Friends in San Antonio?
Does anyone know anyone living in San Antonio? I have some really good friends who are moving to San Antonio right before Christmas--literally--and I don't want them to be all alone. They're moving there December 17th. ZOIKS! Anyone?
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Top 5 Movies
A couple weeks ago, my friend, Andrea, and I were emailing back and forth about our top five movie picks. We created a list of lists. I didn't have time originally to finish it and I promised her that I would. I told her I'd post it here as well.
Please be aware that within any one category, the list is not in the order of my most favorite to my fifth favorite. Sometimes it's hard to choose between one, two, or five. So, theses are my top FIVE of each. Also, be aware that I could have missed some of my "favorites" because I just couldn't think of them.
Top 5 Action Flicks
Gladiator
Young Guns
Transformers
The Dark Knight
House of Flying Daggers
Top 5 Comedy Flicks
Wild Hogs
Three Amigos!
Barber Shop
Galaxy Quest
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Top 5 Disney Flicks
Mulan
Finding Nemo
Bedknobs and Broomsticks
Toy Story
Monsters, Inc.
Top 5 Drama Flicks
Million Dollar Baby
Whale Rider
In America
Rabbit Proof Fence
The Color Purple
Top 5 Musical Flicks
Fiddler on the Roof
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Wizard of Oz
Beauty and the Beast
Mary Poppins
Top 5 Romantic Flicks
While You Were Sleeping
P.S. I Love You
The Village
Hope Floats
Sabrina
Top 5 Soundtracks
Glory
Medicine Man
Back to the Future
Last of the Mohicans
Fly Away Home
Top 5 Sports Flicks
Rudy
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Remember the Titans
8 Seconds
Invincible
Top 5 Worst Flicks
Killer Clowns from Outer Space
Napoleon Dynamite
See Spot Run
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Hellboy 2
Top 5 Flicks of All Time
Three Amigos!
Ladyhawke
The Dark Crystal
Mulan
Wild Hogs
Please be aware that within any one category, the list is not in the order of my most favorite to my fifth favorite. Sometimes it's hard to choose between one, two, or five. So, theses are my top FIVE of each. Also, be aware that I could have missed some of my "favorites" because I just couldn't think of them.
Top 5 Action Flicks
Gladiator
Young Guns
Transformers
The Dark Knight
House of Flying Daggers
Top 5 Comedy Flicks
Wild Hogs
Three Amigos!
Barber Shop
Galaxy Quest
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Top 5 Disney Flicks
Mulan
Finding Nemo
Bedknobs and Broomsticks
Toy Story
Monsters, Inc.
Top 5 Drama Flicks
Million Dollar Baby
Whale Rider
In America
Rabbit Proof Fence
The Color Purple
Top 5 Musical Flicks
Fiddler on the Roof
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Wizard of Oz
Beauty and the Beast
Mary Poppins
Top 5 Romantic Flicks
While You Were Sleeping
P.S. I Love You
The Village
Hope Floats
Sabrina
Top 5 Soundtracks
Glory
Medicine Man
Back to the Future
Last of the Mohicans
Fly Away Home
Top 5 Sports Flicks
Rudy
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Remember the Titans
8 Seconds
Invincible
Top 5 Worst Flicks
Killer Clowns from Outer Space
Napoleon Dynamite
See Spot Run
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Hellboy 2
Top 5 Flicks of All Time
Three Amigos!
Ladyhawke
The Dark Crystal
Mulan
Wild Hogs
Monday, November 24, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Meltdown
This was an "activity" we had this morning in our office. The best part was when Marisa and I were sitting on the floor, pulling on the dang thing, when Gary walked by. Instead of asking what we were doing, Gary just sat on the floor with us. Silly Gary!
Sacrament Meeting Skits
| Last night, at Young Women, I behaved badly. It's true. I behaved very badly. But, then I got my act straight and behaved much better. We--the YW presidency--did two skits for our girls to teach them about sacrament meeting behavior. The first skit we displayed numerous inappropriate behaviors. The second skit we displayed appropriate behavior. The girls laughed pretty hard, but, I think they got the message. In fact, we even had the Spirit in the room when we talked about the actual sacrament. We first read some passages from the most recent talk in general conference about reverence. Then we read some quotes from John Bytheway about the sacrament. Satomi was the one who outlined the skits for us. And, she prepared the handouts and thoughts. Anyway, see if you can count the number of inappropriate things we did in the first skit. And then look at our angelic faces during the second. |   |
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Hamburger Wantons?
Yes, hamburger wantons.
Last night, Mark and I made a new recipe that we feel quite pleased about. Mark thinks we should call it "All American Wantons." Ok, we'll go with that.
About a week and a half ago I bought a package of wanton wrappers. We used half of them one Sunday afternoon. I've been mentioning that we need to use them before they dry out (that's what the package said). We finally got around to doing it last night.
At first we didn't know what to put in them. But, we improvised. And it was delicious. We ate them with ketchup and steak sauce. We will make them again, we enjoyed them that much. Since we only had a half a package of wanton wrappers, we only "wrapped" half of our meat mixture.
----------
All American Wantons, by Mark and Andrea
1 pound hamburger
1/2 onion, chopped
1 pound (1 large) potato, chopped
Your favorite seasonings
1 package wanton wrappers
Heat deep fryer to 360 degrees. Chop your onion and potato into very small pieces--very small. Use a food processor if necessary. Hand mix onion and potato with raw hamburger. Mix in seasonings (such as Italian dressing, salt, pepper, tobasco sauce, etc.).
Put one tablespoon worth of meat mixture on wanton wrapper. Wet edges of wanton wrapper. Fold over and seal by pressing together. Deep fry for 3 1/2 minutes. Turn over. Deep fry for 3 1/2 minutes more. (7 minutes total.)
Serve with ketchup, steak sauce, soy sauce, or any other meat sauce.
Last night, Mark and I made a new recipe that we feel quite pleased about. Mark thinks we should call it "All American Wantons." Ok, we'll go with that.
About a week and a half ago I bought a package of wanton wrappers. We used half of them one Sunday afternoon. I've been mentioning that we need to use them before they dry out (that's what the package said). We finally got around to doing it last night.
At first we didn't know what to put in them. But, we improvised. And it was delicious. We ate them with ketchup and steak sauce. We will make them again, we enjoyed them that much. Since we only had a half a package of wanton wrappers, we only "wrapped" half of our meat mixture.
----------
All American Wantons, by Mark and Andrea
1 pound hamburger
1/2 onion, chopped
1 pound (1 large) potato, chopped
Your favorite seasonings
1 package wanton wrappers
Heat deep fryer to 360 degrees. Chop your onion and potato into very small pieces--very small. Use a food processor if necessary. Hand mix onion and potato with raw hamburger. Mix in seasonings (such as Italian dressing, salt, pepper, tobasco sauce, etc.).
Put one tablespoon worth of meat mixture on wanton wrapper. Wet edges of wanton wrapper. Fold over and seal by pressing together. Deep fry for 3 1/2 minutes. Turn over. Deep fry for 3 1/2 minutes more. (7 minutes total.)
Serve with ketchup, steak sauce, soy sauce, or any other meat sauce.
Monday, November 17, 2008
The Logan Temple
So, Mark and I have a goal to visit all the temples in Utah within our first year of marriage, if possible. So far, we have visited the following as a couple:
It’s been really rewarding for us. We’ve felt more love for each other, and we feel like we’ve been strengthened spiritually.
This past Friday night, we went to Logan and stayed with Mark’s friends from his youth: Parker and Debbie. The husband/dad was one of Mark’s young men leaders. They were absolutely wonderful. Mark and I want to be like them when we’re their age. And, we want to be like them when we’re old too. They are still in love and they still are young.
They fed us burgers for dinner. First thing Saturday, we went to the temple. Then we just talked with them until almost 2:30 when we decided we better leave them. They were wonderful. And, it just made Mark and me even more happy that we have each other.
Temples Mark & Andrea Have Attended
First Time Together
| # | Temple | State | Endowment | Sealings | Open House |
| 1 | Rexburg | Idaho | . | . | Jan. ‘08 |
| 2 | Jordan River | Utah | Feb. ‘08 | July ‘09 | . |
| 3 | Salt Lake City | Utah | Mar. ‘08 | . | . |
| 4 | Bountiful | Utah | April ‘08 | . | . |
| 5 | Timpanogos | Utah | May ‘08 | . | . |
| 6 | Manti | Utah | . | May ‘08* | . |
| 7 | Boise | Idaho | June ‘08 | . | . |
| 8 | Columbia River | Washington | June ‘08 | . | . |
| 9 | Ogden | Utah | July ‘08 | . | . |
| 10 | Monticello | Utah | Sept. ‘08 | . | . |
| 11 | Logan | Utah | Nov. ‘08 | . | . |
It’s been really rewarding for us. We’ve felt more love for each other, and we feel like we’ve been strengthened spiritually.
This past Friday night, we went to Logan and stayed with Mark’s friends from his youth: Parker and Debbie. The husband/dad was one of Mark’s young men leaders. They were absolutely wonderful. Mark and I want to be like them when we’re their age. And, we want to be like them when we’re old too. They are still in love and they still are young.
They fed us burgers for dinner. First thing Saturday, we went to the temple. Then we just talked with them until almost 2:30 when we decided we better leave them. They were wonderful. And, it just made Mark and me even more happy that we have each other.
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Food Bank
So, last night, for our YM/YW activity, we went to the Food Bank. I loved it! And, so did the kids. In fact, the first thing that impressed me was the fact there were so many of our kids coming. We had nine YW and we had eight YM. That's the most I've ever seen at any activity.
About half of the leaders/kids went to the Food Bank last year. They had us do the same thing. It was really nice that they just set us to work. I didn't know how it all worked, but it wasn't hard to figure out.
We sorted food/supplies into boxes. The food/supplies were in GIANT boxes and we put them in boxes about 1-foot-cubed. The categories were baby supplies, canned beans, canned veggies, canned fruits, canned soups, boxed meals, canned meats, personal supplies, toilet paper, household items, snacks/sweets, holiday, ethnic foods, condiments and sauces, dried soups and plain pasta, beverages, coffee, dried milk, canned milk, etc. I can't remember all the boxes.
The most wonderful thing happened: the kids loved it and they worked hard. In fact, the supervisor guy didn't think we'd get as much done, so he gave us another huge box to sort. I didn't hear one person complain. I didn't see one person sitting out. I didn't witness any revolts of any manner. It was beautiful.
Yah, that was a good activity. I wonder if they even knew they were doing service? Hahahah!
*****
Truly, I am so blessed. I can afford to buy all those things whenever I want/need to. I have a good job. I have a wonderful husband. And, Heavenly Father is watching out for me.
About half of the leaders/kids went to the Food Bank last year. They had us do the same thing. It was really nice that they just set us to work. I didn't know how it all worked, but it wasn't hard to figure out.
We sorted food/supplies into boxes. The food/supplies were in GIANT boxes and we put them in boxes about 1-foot-cubed. The categories were baby supplies, canned beans, canned veggies, canned fruits, canned soups, boxed meals, canned meats, personal supplies, toilet paper, household items, snacks/sweets, holiday, ethnic foods, condiments and sauces, dried soups and plain pasta, beverages, coffee, dried milk, canned milk, etc. I can't remember all the boxes.
The most wonderful thing happened: the kids loved it and they worked hard. In fact, the supervisor guy didn't think we'd get as much done, so he gave us another huge box to sort. I didn't hear one person complain. I didn't see one person sitting out. I didn't witness any revolts of any manner. It was beautiful.
Yah, that was a good activity. I wonder if they even knew they were doing service? Hahahah!
*****
Truly, I am so blessed. I can afford to buy all those things whenever I want/need to. I have a good job. I have a wonderful husband. And, Heavenly Father is watching out for me.
How's Your Multiplication?
I got this video from my mother-in-law. I just about died laughing. It is sooooooo funny.
Saturday, November 08, 2008
7:00 am Shopping
This morning--Saturday--I went grocery shopping. Ok, so it wasn't quite 7:00 am, but it was 7:30. We woke up and went shopping. It was really quiet, just like I hoped it would be. And, all the shelves were stocked because they hadn't been cleared yet.
Generally, we sleep in on Saturday. But, I knew we needed to go heavy-duty shopping today, and there is no way I wanted to fight crowds. So, I figured first thing would be the best idea.
Mark wasn't very happy. But, it had to be done. And, now it is!
Generally, we sleep in on Saturday. But, I knew we needed to go heavy-duty shopping today, and there is no way I wanted to fight crowds. So, I figured first thing would be the best idea.
Mark wasn't very happy. But, it had to be done. And, now it is!
Friday, November 07, 2008
Christmas Gifts: Slippers
My Dear Family & Friends,
Somewhat embarrassing to admit, I'm not getting an annual bonus and Christmas is tight this year. I will be making bedroom slippers for you all as gifts. Please let me know your sizes. You'll most likely agree that it's a splendid idea, and should you wish to do the same, I've included the instructions below.
How to make bedroom slippers out of maxi pads:
* You need four maxi pads to make a pair.
* Two of them get laid out flat, for the foot part.
* The other two wrap around the toe area to form the top.
* Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part.
Decorate the tops with whatever you desire, silk flowers (this is most aesthetically appealing), etc.
These slippers are:
* Soft and Hygienic
* Non-slip grip strips on the soles
* Built in deodorant feature keeps feet smelling fresh
* No more bending over to mop up spills
* Disposable and biodegradable
* Environmentally safe
* Three convenient sizes: (1) Regular, (2) Light and (3) Get Out the Sand Bags.
I've attached a photo of the first pair I made so that you can see the nifty slippers for yourself....
Awaiting your response. It's crucial that I get the right size for each one of you.
Hehehehe........ I only wish I was creative enough to write that.
Somewhat embarrassing to admit, I'm not getting an annual bonus and Christmas is tight this year. I will be making bedroom slippers for you all as gifts. Please let me know your sizes. You'll most likely agree that it's a splendid idea, and should you wish to do the same, I've included the instructions below.
How to make bedroom slippers out of maxi pads:
* You need four maxi pads to make a pair.
* Two of them get laid out flat, for the foot part.
* The other two wrap around the toe area to form the top.
* Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part.
Decorate the tops with whatever you desire, silk flowers (this is most aesthetically appealing), etc.
These slippers are:
* Soft and Hygienic
* Non-slip grip strips on the soles
* Built in deodorant feature keeps feet smelling fresh
* No more bending over to mop up spills
* Disposable and biodegradable
* Environmentally safe
* Three convenient sizes: (1) Regular, (2) Light and (3) Get Out the Sand Bags.
I've attached a photo of the first pair I made so that you can see the nifty slippers for yourself....
Awaiting your response. It's crucial that I get the right size for each one of you.
Hehehehe........ I only wish I was creative enough to write that.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Cletus and Clareese
I had a dream about Cletus and Clareese last night. No kidding. And then--I used that as a thought in my Young Women meeting.
In my dream, there were some law professors talking about some issue on TV--I don't remember what the issue was. Then one of them said that they needed to talk to some experts or witnesses or something. The screen flashed to a library-looking room, where a "Cletus" and "Clareese" were. Except, they were NOT Cletus and Clareese (as seen above). They were two other people trying to be Mark and me.
I remember being quite upset about it in my dream. "That's not us! That's not Cletus and Clareese! They suck. They are totally not as funny as us. Who are those people?"
In our YW class, we talked about self esteem and about individual worth. It came to me towards the end of the lesson how my dream actually does relate to that very topic.
No one can be as good at being "me" as I can--which also means being Clareese. No one can be as good at being Mark as he can--including being Cletus. There is a reason we are sent to this earth and we have the opportunities that we have--because no one else can be as good at being us. We ARE individuals. We ARE unique. We ARE special. And, we ARE here to do something important.
Any way...funny dream, funny analogy, but true. :-D
In my dream, there were some law professors talking about some issue on TV--I don't remember what the issue was. Then one of them said that they needed to talk to some experts or witnesses or something. The screen flashed to a library-looking room, where a "Cletus" and "Clareese" were. Except, they were NOT Cletus and Clareese (as seen above). They were two other people trying to be Mark and me.I remember being quite upset about it in my dream. "That's not us! That's not Cletus and Clareese! They suck. They are totally not as funny as us. Who are those people?"
In our YW class, we talked about self esteem and about individual worth. It came to me towards the end of the lesson how my dream actually does relate to that very topic.
No one can be as good at being "me" as I can--which also means being Clareese. No one can be as good at being Mark as he can--including being Cletus. There is a reason we are sent to this earth and we have the opportunities that we have--because no one else can be as good at being us. We ARE individuals. We ARE unique. We ARE special. And, we ARE here to do something important.
Any way...funny dream, funny analogy, but true. :-D
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
My First Pumpkin
I carved my first pumpkin last night. No, really—my first pumpkin. I’ve never done one before. I’ve actually only been eye-witness to a very few pumpkin carvings in my life. Maybe—two? I actually can only think of one.
Anyway, so I carved my first pumpkin last night. Mark was shocked that it was my first one. He didn’t know that it was my first until I was well on my way of having it all gutted. I’ll be honest—it stinks. And, it’s pretty gross. But, I managed to gut it pretty well.
I wanted to make a monster, but not a “scary” monster. We just watched Monster’s, Inc. on Sunday, so Mike came to mind. I grabbed the DVD case and had a good look at him. Then I found circles of varying sizes so I could trace them: the almond extract lid, a spice bottle, a coaster, a plate, and a bowl. I traced the eye.
Mark came over to see what I was doing. I was all nervous because when I told him it was my first, he reacted like I was a freak, and he boasted that he’s done nigh onto 30 pumpkins himself. (Don’t worry, he didn’t say any of this in any degrading way—I was just ultra nervous being in the presence of someone so expert. She failed to mention that I told her all of my pumpkins suck because I am not very good and have no artistic ability. ) He said a couple things about how hard the mouth might be—so I got more nervous.
I got the face drawn on. Mark mentioned—a few times—that I should have drawn it on with a pencil. Alas—my lack of knowledge showing through again. I had drawn it on with a marker so I could see it. Oh well.
Then I started carving with Mark hovering over me. He kept shifting around me so he could see better. That made me nervous too.
Overall, I think I did a pretty fair job. Mark helped only when my hand got tired of sawing. He gave good advice. And I like it—I like my pumpkin.
(Mark was very concerned with the marker lines, so he insisted he clean them off. I taught him a trick I’ve learned somewhere along the way. I learned it about whiteboards and figured it might work with pumpkins too: color over the marker with a whiteboard marker and then erase both. It did indeed work and Mark was so impressed.)
Anyway, so I carved my first pumpkin last night. Mark was shocked that it was my first one. He didn’t know that it was my first until I was well on my way of having it all gutted. I’ll be honest—it stinks. And, it’s pretty gross. But, I managed to gut it pretty well.
I wanted to make a monster, but not a “scary” monster. We just watched Monster’s, Inc. on Sunday, so Mike came to mind. I grabbed the DVD case and had a good look at him. Then I found circles of varying sizes so I could trace them: the almond extract lid, a spice bottle, a coaster, a plate, and a bowl. I traced the eye.Mark came over to see what I was doing. I was all nervous because when I told him it was my first, he reacted like I was a freak, and he boasted that he’s done nigh onto 30 pumpkins himself. (Don’t worry, he didn’t say any of this in any degrading way—I was just ultra nervous being in the presence of someone so expert. She failed to mention that I told her all of my pumpkins suck because I am not very good and have no artistic ability. ) He said a couple things about how hard the mouth might be—so I got more nervous.
I got the face drawn on. Mark mentioned—a few times—that I should have drawn it on with a pencil. Alas—my lack of knowledge showing through again. I had drawn it on with a marker so I could see it. Oh well.
Then I started carving with Mark hovering over me. He kept shifting around me so he could see better. That made me nervous too.Overall, I think I did a pretty fair job. Mark helped only when my hand got tired of sawing. He gave good advice. And I like it—I like my pumpkin.
(Mark was very concerned with the marker lines, so he insisted he clean them off. I taught him a trick I’ve learned somewhere along the way. I learned it about whiteboards and figured it might work with pumpkins too: color over the marker with a whiteboard marker and then erase both. It did indeed work and Mark was so impressed.)
Monday, October 27, 2008
My Dream Man
Our ward meets at 9:00 am. Mark's first meeting is at 6:30 am. We pray together every morning--even on Sunday mornings.
Yesterday morning, my dream man woke me up to say goodbye to me. He was tall, broad, smelled delicious, was clean-shaven, was wearing a white shirt and tie, and was all glowy. [swoon]
We prayed together. He held my hand for a few seconds, tucked me back in bed, and then left my dark bedroom.
I am so blessed. :-D
Yesterday morning, my dream man woke me up to say goodbye to me. He was tall, broad, smelled delicious, was clean-shaven, was wearing a white shirt and tie, and was all glowy. [swoon]
We prayed together. He held my hand for a few seconds, tucked me back in bed, and then left my dark bedroom.
I am so blessed. :-D
Friday, October 24, 2008
Five Month Anniversary
I just want to give a shout out to my best man: Mark.
I LOVE YOU! Happy Five Month Anniversary!!!!!!!
I LOVE YOU! Happy Five Month Anniversary!!!!!!!
The Mortuary
Call me crazy, but I think going to a mortuary for an October Young Women's activity is one of the coolest things ever.
When I was in YW, one year we did a YW/YM activity and went to Price to the mortuary there. We had a tour of the facilities, including the room with the big shiny table where they embalm bodies. Then we talked about the plan of salvation.
In my new ward, I am one of the YW leaders. I was sooooooo excited when they asked for ideas because I wanted to try and do something similar to my experience. After making the right connections, we got our date and time set up to go tour a local mortuary: Valley View Funeral Home last night.
Our YW are few in numbers and in activity. Last night, we only had half of our usual count--only three girls came. There were three of us leaders and our bishopric leader (my hubby). There was a grand total of seven of us. (I had told them probably 10-12 would come, I was off.)
We had two "tour guides." One was a licensed funeral home director/mortician (a bishop in another ward). I'm not sure what the other one was (one of our high councilmen). We were there for almost 2.5 hours. It was really, really cool.
We talked about viewings, makeup, caskets, urns, cremation, hair, clothes, burial plots, hearses, body bags, costs, time, laws, etc. We asked lots of questions and had all of them answered. And, we also talked about how death is just part of the plan of salvation.
It turned out to be less of a spiritual talk than I had originally thought it might be--because when I went as a young woman, we didn't get to see as much and we didn't have as much of an opportunity to ask questions. I would like to talk more about death, though, and about the Plan. But, honestly, it was such a great experience for me. I'm really glad the three girls came that did come. And, I hope they learned something that will one day help them cope with losses in their own lives.
When I was in YW, one year we did a YW/YM activity and went to Price to the mortuary there. We had a tour of the facilities, including the room with the big shiny table where they embalm bodies. Then we talked about the plan of salvation.
In my new ward, I am one of the YW leaders. I was sooooooo excited when they asked for ideas because I wanted to try and do something similar to my experience. After making the right connections, we got our date and time set up to go tour a local mortuary: Valley View Funeral Home last night.
Our YW are few in numbers and in activity. Last night, we only had half of our usual count--only three girls came. There were three of us leaders and our bishopric leader (my hubby). There was a grand total of seven of us. (I had told them probably 10-12 would come, I was off.)
We had two "tour guides." One was a licensed funeral home director/mortician (a bishop in another ward). I'm not sure what the other one was (one of our high councilmen). We were there for almost 2.5 hours. It was really, really cool.
We talked about viewings, makeup, caskets, urns, cremation, hair, clothes, burial plots, hearses, body bags, costs, time, laws, etc. We asked lots of questions and had all of them answered. And, we also talked about how death is just part of the plan of salvation.
It turned out to be less of a spiritual talk than I had originally thought it might be--because when I went as a young woman, we didn't get to see as much and we didn't have as much of an opportunity to ask questions. I would like to talk more about death, though, and about the Plan. But, honestly, it was such a great experience for me. I'm really glad the three girls came that did come. And, I hope they learned something that will one day help them cope with losses in their own lives.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
In the past year
So, today is 1 year since I left American Samoa. When I left American Samoa it was 85 degrees. When I landed in Salt Lake, it was 35 degrees. I am amazed at how my life has changed since I left.
This is what has happened in the past year...I...
This is what has happened in the past year...I...
- Started a job with Jolley & Jolley as a divorce attorney.
- Got a settlement of $1,250.00 from a cell phone company for illegally signing me up.
- Met Andrea (on December 31, 2007).
- Got engaged (on February 23, 2008).
- Married Andrea (on May 24, 2008), the woman of my dreams.
- Had my dream wedding reception.
- Went on a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean
- Gained 30 pounds.
- Learned how to ride a motorcycle & took a road trip.
- Bought a condo (well put my name on the title).
- Lost money in the stock market.
- Got ordained a High Priest.
- Got put into my ward's Bishopric.
Our Storage
Instead of lounging around Saturday like I had hoped we would do, we actually did a bit of work.* We went grocery shopping.
* We bought new shelves for our storage room.
* We reorganized our storage room, using the new shelves (as you can see).
* We worked on our 72-hour kits.
That doesn't seem like a ton, but, in my opinion, I think it was a good Saturday's workload. Not too much to get annoyed or anything. And, we did things that are already having a positive impact on our household. I'm quite proud of the new shelves and of the 72-hour kits.
And now we have more shelves to actually put food on. It was kind of frustrating to try and cram food on a teeny tiny shelf that wasn't intended to handle food storage.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)