Awakening

Well That's A Fine How Do You Do... Ringing in 2012

2012-01-01T03:23:00.000-05:00

Post Numero 75! I can't believe it. I've known it was coming for quite a while but I wanted to wait for a "Perfect" moment to write. 2012 seems like a good opportunity to do so. I am actually quite excited by it. I actually really couldn't figure out what to write as post 75. I am really excited for the year ahead. I really want to strive to be not only a better person, but a better blogger. I'm also really excited to know that I have some fantastic resolutions and I'm really excited about that as well. I am really hoping that they last the entire 366 days this year. Yes my friends this year is a leap year! I decided to write a list of goals as this post as I can go back and look at it again and again. I might even post it on my own wall so I see it everyday! I was aiming for 75 things, but as you can see... there are more than that. Funny things happen at 3:20am!! I need to stop or I will have like 300 goals for one year.. haha!

I really want to

Spiritual Goals

* attend the temple at least once a month (receive my endowment)
* pay my tithing on a regular basis
* pray
* read my scriptures daily
* read/watch/listen to general conference talks, firesides
* be able to serve in the best capacity of my calling(s)
* be a great visiting teacher
* be an instrument in the hands of the Lord when called upon
* receive my patriarchal blessing
* fast with a purpose
* share my testimony as much as I can
* give away a copy of The Book of Mormon
* share the gospel with someone and Introduce them to the Missionaries
* write in my journal
* Love Heavenly Father More than I do now
* Notice the Small Things
* Appreciate the Big Things
* Show Gratitute for my Trials
* See My Worth
* Read the Book of Mormon in 24 hours
* Seek Repentance when Necessary
* Show Forgiveness when Necessary
* Attend Institute
* Attend As Many YSA activities as I can
* Seek Wisdom from my Leaders
* Pray for my Leaders
* Pray for my Family
* Pray for my Friends
* Pray for my Future Spouse and Family
* Read the Book of Mormon in 30 days
* Attend FHE
* Get Rid of Fear
* Have Faith

Healthy Goals

* take care of myself with daily grooming habits
* do my hair for special events
* try to put on makeup for no reason
* exercise (Wii Fit, Zumba, YMCA)
* eat more healthy (vegetables, fruit)
* learn how to cook more
* try to eat three meals a day
* prepare meals so that I don't eat late at night
* go to bed earlier

Family Goals

* tell my family how much I love them
* be able to communicate effectively
* spend more time with them
* make them proud
* write letters to them often (email & snail mail)
* do things for them without complaint
* do things for them without being asked
* ask if they would like to do something, me to do something, etc.
* share my testimony with my family

Habitat Goals

* keep a tidy environment (try to make it calming)
* organize my books
* organize my movies
* create a binder to record what I own regarding books and movies

Personal Goals

* Be the Best Friend I can be
* Show Compassion
* don't be afraid of the phone
* get a job (leads to career in my field
* read at least one book a month
* blog often
* make cards with my cricut and mail them away
* give/toss things I don't need anymore
* give service to a community organization
* Smile Always
* Laugh
* Choose the Best
* Learn to play Piano
* Buy a Violin
* Buy A Ticket to Utah
* Travel
* Phone people for no reason, just to say Hi
* Manage Money Effectively
* Pay down Debt
* Pay family back for things they have done for me
* Put Forth More Effort into things
* Find a new skill
* Learn a new skill
* Take a night course/weekend course/day course
* Beat my Mom at Boggle
* Write Letters to Everyone for no reason
* Get to know people better
* Pin on Pinterest

Career Goals

* Apply to Jobs I am qualified for (no matter where they are)
* Prepare for every interview
* Write notes of appreciation for the interview panel/person
* Work hard at the current jobs I have, do more than what I think I can do
* Work effectively and try to leave place better than I found it
* Make sure I write letters to the people I supply for so they know what I did
* Write notes of appreciation for those people I supply for so they see that I am grateful for what I do
* Follow up after the interview with a phone call no matter what
* Accept every supply call unless the weather is really bad

Spiritual Strength

2011-09-13T14:09:00.003-04:00

I'm really a horrible blogger, but I really have been thinking about this blog of mine (I've wanted to post, but I've wanted to be in the right mindset to write a blog post.) At times, I wanted to blog frustration but I don't want this to be a forum of negativity. (I don't know why the font colours are different, so bear with me so I can figure out how to change it)

However, I thought this would be a good time to post.

So I Spoke on Sunday and I thought that my fellow blog fans would like to read it.

It's quite a simple topic when it comes down to it, but we all need the spiritual strength sometimes to make the best choices in our lives, We've got the Holy Ghost to be the conduit to receive inspiration and revelation which leads to spiritual strength. Now that I look back on writing and giving this talk at church, there were a lot of things that I wanted to say but not enough time to say it. So I will post my talk in this post and then write another post (after a little more serious reflection and if you want to write your comments on the topic as well that would rock, and then I can include them in my thoughts)

So Here It Goes

Today I would like to speak about having spiritual strength. Since during times in my life I may have not inwardly felt this spiritual strength and I have felt that I have needed to work on receiving more of it. This is something that I felt an urgency to increase in my own life as I am continuing to seek more from the gospel.

I would like to begin by retelling a story from Wendy Watson Nelson, the wife of Elder Russell M. Nelson.

“A few months prior to my marriage, I had an experience that illustrated, just how vital it is that we are prepared with the skill and understanding necessary to do what the Lord needs us to do. I accompanied Sheri Dew to Palmyra to participate in a symposium on the Prophet Joseph Smith.

Since our obligations lasted into Saturday evening, in order to be home in time to meet our Sunday commitments, we booked an early morning Sunday flight back to Salt Lake City. That morning we had arrived at the Rochester Airport at 4:30am. We walked towards the terminal, when suddenly-unexplainably – I tripped and fell and did what could only be described as a cartoon face-plant right into the cement.

Sheri was walking ahead of me, heard me fall, and turned around and saw me face down on the pavement...which was quickly turning red from the blood pouring from a large gash in my forehead and nose. She helped me to a sitting position on the sidewalk, and then began to look for something to slow down the bleeding, and began to look for someone to help us. There were three police cars parked only a few feet away but not a policeman to be found. It was so early in the morning that there was not one other person in sight.

I instantly knew what had to be done. I said to Sheri, “You’ve got to pray for me.” Without hesitating, she knelt down on the pavement next to me and began to plead with the Lord. The only way I can describe that prayer is to say that she prayed with power. She petitioned the Lord to stop my fear, the bleeding, and the pain. She also pleaded that she would know what to do to take care of me.

Sheri then darted off in search of help. Minutes later an officer arrived, took one look at me, and called the paramedics. About five minutes later a fire truck, with sirens blaring, and an EMT truck..., arrived. After trying to bandage me up, Sheri instantly intervened: ‘‘No, I`m taking her home. ” With a flimsy bandage finally applied ... I walked with Sheri`s help through the airport. With the injury finally protected by a bandage that covered most of my forehead and nose ... I settled back into my seat on the plane.

As the plane took off, I mentioned that I had an appointment later that week with a dermatologist... and I should have him look at the injury. Sheri response was careful, ‘‘Oh ... you know, after all you`ve been through this morning, you`re probably not going to feel much like going to church today, why don`t we call ahead and see if we can find a surgeon, a plastic surgeon, in Salt Lake who will see you today” I still had no idea just how serious my circumstance was. Upon landing in Salt Lake City we learned that we were to go immediately to LDS Hospital. An hour later I was in surgery, where it took countless stitches to put my face back together. However, the surgery did not take place until after I received a priesthood blessing. There was several reason Sheri was the right person to be with me. She had the spiritual skill and understanding to know how to petition the Father with power in the name of the Son, so that the pain, the fear, and the bleeding would stop. And then she knew how to hear the voice of the Lord and His directions through the Spirit to get me from the airport sidewalk to the surgical suite.

I have often wondered how differently the story might have unfolded had Sheri not been with me.”

May I pose a question which I think we need to pause and think about whether it is now, or during this upcoming week. “What Can I do to Increase My Spiritual Strength?” and “What is the Source of My Spiritual Strength?

Here are a few quotes that my assist in answering these questions.

Julie B. Beck has said, “The ability to qualify for, receive, and act on personal revelation is the single most important skill that can be acquired in this life. Qualifying for the Lord’s Spirit begins with a desire for that Spirit and implies a certain degree of worthiness. Keeping the commandments, repenting, and renewing covenants made at baptism lead to the blessing of always having the Lord’s Spirit with us. Making and keeping temple covenants also adds spiritual strength and power to life. Many answers to difficult questions are found by reading the scriptures because the scriptures are an aid to revelation. Insight found in scripture accumulates over time, so it is important to spend some time in the scriptures every day. Daily prayer is also essential to having the Lord’s Spirit with us. Those who earnestly seek help through prayer and scripture study often have a paper and pencil nearby to write questions and record impressions and ideas.”

President Henry B. Eyring has said, “Increased spiritual strength is a gift from God which He can give when we push in His service to our limits. Through the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, our natures can be changed. Then our power to carry burdens can be increased more than enough to compensate for the increased service we will be asked to give. ”

Rex W. Allred has said, “To be eligible for exaltation, a person must grow in spiritual power and be sanctified to the point that he develops a powerful and personal relationship with the Savior.”

David A Bednar said, “The very nature of the Redeemer’s Atonement and the purpose of the restored Church are intended to help us receive . . . spiritual strength. One of the greatest indicators of our own spiritual maturity is revealed in how we respond to the weaknesses, the inexperience, and the potentially offensive actions of others.”

Thomas S. Monson, our prophet wrote an article in the Washington Post this week, about dealing with the results of September 11, 2001, however I feel that in the same way it applies to spiritual strength. He said, “We owe it to God the same faithfulness he gives to us. We should strive for steadfastness and for a commitment to God that does not ebb and flow with the years or the crises in our lives. The way to be with God in every season is to strive to be near Him every week and each day. We truly “need Him every hour,” We must speak to Him, listen to Him, and serve Him. If we wish to serve Him, we should serve our fellow men. We will mourn the lives we lose, but we should also fix the lives that can be mended and heal the hearts that may yet be healed. It is constancy that God would have from us. Destruction allows us to rebuild our lives in the way He teaches us, and to become something different than we were. We can make Him the center of our thoughts and His Son, Jesus Christ, the pattern for our behavior. We may not only find faith in God in our sorrow. We may also become faithful to Him in times of calm.

I leave a challenge that if you are seeking spiritual strength to follow the example of Enos in 1:4, “and I kneeled down before my Maker and I cried unto him in mighty prayer and supplication for mine own soul; and all the day long did I cry unto him; yea, and when the night came I did still raise my voice high that it reached the heavens. Enos had the desire and the faith to pray unceasingly until he had an answer and an increase of spiritual strength.

I encourage you to seek and find spiritual strength through fervent prayer, scripture study, seeking council from our leaders, attending the temple, attending institute, attending church, serving in our callings, being great Home and Visiting Teachers, fasting, and serving those who are waiting to hear the gospel. And I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

I'm Sorry That You Bled From That Pore For Me... The Power of Forgiveness Story

2011-06-17T12:17:00.001-04:00

I didn't realize this week that I would receive not only a story about the Atonement this week at church but I would also receive and realize and and have it practiced in my life so quickly that I would be able to connect the two.

On Sunday a missionary Elder Fawcett told the branch about this story where a young man goes travelling through the canyons in Utah. He's driving his car along and then for whatever reason he gets into a really terrible car accident. Search and rescue is called and the car is wedged in such a way that it is difficult to get this young man out of the car because one of the steel metal pieces is going through his stomach. The search and rescue team has two of it's members try to dislodge this steel from around him and they try to make it so their isn't so much more pain and pressure on the injury to his stomach. As they do this a single droplet of blood expires from a pore in his forehead. Elder Fawcett then said, if this much pain and anguish caused this young man to expire one droplet of blood from a single pore, imagine how much pain the Saviour was in when he was in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Which Brings Me to My Experience

I was working yesterday in a library where I've worked before and I worked my but off doing everything to make sure that the library technician of the school wouldn't have any problem knowing that she'd left the library in good hands, I shelved, I walked around the library to make sure everything was put back where it was, etc. The only thing she asked me not to do was check out books because we're in the last week of school. So this student comes in close to the end of the day and asks to check out a book because she needs it for her assignment. So after had said no twice, and after she had promised me that she would have it returned to me by the end of the day, I finally relented knowing well that I would be in for my consequences.

So I emailed this Librarian and told her about everything I did during the day and then I wrote the part in the email where I checked out the one book to the student. I knew by being honest I was somewhat ready for her to say something. I felt SO bad. Bad enough already that I almost thought about calling to find out who her teacher was so I could tell the teacher what was going on.

Unfortunately, that part didn't come to fruition, so even with the email I took my chances. I was really disappointed in myself even after her having the message tell me a couple times that I even thought it would be okay in the first place.

So today I heard back from her and yes she was very disappointment, I think probably even more disappointment because she goes beyond what librarians should have to do and phones home to the parents and talks to them and tries to get the students to return their books. So yes I did feel bad enough already here was the consequence.

So as bad as I felt, I really wanted to correct my mistake and make sure that I would end up in her good books so I had it in my mind to go buy the book for her and give it to her to replace the one that was borrowed by the student (who she had a hard time with) that way she would only have to re-catalogue the book (something that the central cataloging part of the school board does anyway) and realistically she would just have to add a new barcode to the previous title.

So I bought a card as well and thanked her for letting me come in and fill in for her and how much I appreciated her letting me know what I missed, [(window open over the weekend, by accident) messy library, chairs not stacked, etc.) ] and that I appreciated that it has been quite the learning experience and that I can only improve, etc.

So after driving to pick up the book and writing in the card (which by far was the easier part) I arrived at the school, terrified beyond belief but feeling courageous because I even did it in the first place, there was a YM who I knew who is a member sitting on the front steps of the school waiting to get picked up for a dental appointment (I was like, that's got to be the best sign ever, thanks Jason C.) I walked into the main office to let them know that I was there and why I was there then walked up the stairs to the library and opened the door and waited for her to appear behind her circ desk again (she was in her workroom area)

She then looked at the book in my hand and refused to take it, I insisted because I knew in my heart that it was the right thing to do, she finally took the book and appreciated the card and what I wrote on the card then she asked me to come back into her workroom and then she gave me a hug. She then said she didn't want me to think that she didn't want me to come in and fill in for her and apologized for coming across the way she did and she said that I had definitely worked really hard, etc. I was floored and yes a little teary and we had a good conversation about where I worked this year and how much work I did at other schools, etc.) She then told me to keep the receipt so if the student returned the book I could have the book I bought back so that I was able to return the book to get a refund.

So after our conversation I said goodbye, (now really hoping this student would return this book) and said goodbye to the secretaries in the office and walked out of the school (to find Jason C. still sitting outside, thanks Jason C.)

About 2 1/2 hours later the student in question returned the book so she emailed me and told me I could pick up the book I bought!

Wow! I know I probably caused more heartache and disappointment in myself and bleeding from pores of the Savior but I know by doing the right thing (repenting, so to speak) and showing that I was trying to improve and learn and making the commitment to strive to have thicker skin with High School Students (trying to get away with things) I was forgiven in such an unexpected way that I felt at peace, I felt immense gratitude. It was unbelievable and such an amazing spiritual experience, OVER A LIBRARY BOOK!

I love it when my career life meets my religious one, I don't think I've had very many experiences where this has happened where I was connecting the two but this by far was an amazing one.

Something Exciting is Coming Soon!

2011-06-14T15:50:00.000-04:00

My Very First Ever Giveaway is happening Soon!

Let me tell you I'm just very, very, very excited about it.

I can't wait to share it with you!

Wouldn't You Like To Know Who Your Soul Mate Was?

2011-05-25T13:08:00.000-04:00

Matched By Ally Condie

I bet you weren't expecting another book review so soon, maybe you were, but I don't know how many people are reading my blog right now, it might just be me. I am expecting to do a couple of blog layout changes again shortly, but I couldn't resist another review.

A good friend of mine Sis M. in our branch recommended this book to me and couldn't get it into my hands fast enough, except for the fact that she had already leant the book out to someone else. (BUMMER!) Fortunately, it was like a ghost haunting me or something because I would see it in the bookstore and be instantly drawn to it.

I had actually read another book by Ally Condie, she had written a series for LDS youth and I picked up the first one in the series and it was a super quick read as well. I didn't realize that they were one in the same until I had read her bio on her website. It was like, NOW I DEFINATELY NEED TO READ MATCHED!

So on with the Book Review!

So in this society, the society has picked the age limit on all human beings will be. There are also age requirements set on each person (when to meet their mate, when they will marry, when they will die, etc.) The society has also done away with handwriting and they now deal with more technologically advanced communication.

So the book sets out with Cassia a 16 year old girl going to a Match banquet where she will find out who her soul mate is. (wouldn't we all like to know when we're 16 years old!) She gets matched and finds out that her match is none other than her best friend Xander. She's suprised and so is he. They both feel fortunate that they found one another without officially being matched!

She is sent home with a port card -match card that has all the information about Xander on it (most of it she already knows) and the rules and regulations on "courting" and "dating" and making their match official in marriage at 21. When she loads it into her computer Xander's face shows up and then flashes off and another guys face shows up, and apparently she knows him too! His name is Ky.

So Cassia has to then decide what is the right thing for her in this society. Unfortunately this society is also breaking down around her. She is given a work placement to sort things people, places, things, numbers, etc. Her recreation time is limited to certain activities (swimming, planting, hiking) and everyone is constantly being watched for probably what would be the "supreme" beings of society. During this time she becomes more and more confused as to who to pick to be matched to, helping her family, and the community she lives in, while she properly follows orders, even though she constantly questions them, she even gets taught by Ky the skill of handwriting which was hidden and covered so no one knew what they were doing.

This book definately leaves you wanting more. It is worth every word on it's page.

As a side note, I don't know what the other books in the series will be like but It was relatively tame "teen" fiction respects, no big violence, no innapropriate language or vulgarity, no sexual situations. It may change in the later books, it may not. (I may write a post about the Hunger Games series and Twilight Series, to show you what I mean) It was an honest telling of a story that invites you to talk about "what would happen if...?"

Read it! It is Excellent!

H2O FOR PACHYDERMS

2011-05-09T11:44:00.001-04:00

The Book

I have to say that I get way to excited when it comes to movie adaptations of books that I read, want to read, or have read. There have been several times when I've been completely disappointed because the movie changed lots of the story, left story out, or added stuff that wasn't in the story.

I'm so excited that I was going to read the book, because my previous book was just a huge and long and arduous process to read that when I read Water for Elephants it was just a fast and eventful from PAGE ONE! Horray!

I do have to say that there is some content in the book that was a little naughty, but if you prevail with reading it you will end up with such a satisfying story.

I was really enlightened because I really haven't read a lot of what is considered "ADULT" fiction. I have been in the Teen/Young Adult area of literature that I was afraid of reading content that was just inappropriate.

I do have to say just keep reading it. Running Away With the Circus is something you wouldn't expect to do in 2011 but somehow Jacob Jankowski does just that during the depression. His exploration of his surroundings is real and the images just leap of the pages.

The Movie

Although they left some characters and details out the director and actors were able to portray such a similar story that left you greatfully pleased with the entire movie. Yes Robert Pattinson was in this movie, not that it had any way swayed my idea of going to see it because he was in it. Yes I've read the Twilight series and I've seen all the movies so far too, and I've got to say, he's come a long way from being a vampire to being a fantastic mortal human being. He almost didn't need to "act" because he was Jacob Jankowski.

I was really glad that the most important parts of the story were there and amid the small unnoticeable changes the movie captivated me from beginning to end.

and OH the naughty bits in the movie were there but there wasn't any nudity or anything that would surprise you if you hadn't read the book.

The one thing that was apparent was it was a little bloody and there are fight sequences so be prepared for that when you see it.

Both the Book and the Movie get 4/5! The story is fantastic and worthwhile and the movie is just beautifully filmed and incredibly naturally acted. I really want to see it again!

~~~*~

2011-04-27T13:20:00.002-04:00

Does euphonious remind you of an attachment

Wow, I Look at My Finds for the Day....

2011-04-18T13:11:00.000-04:00

So I'm incredibly impressed by this blog it's not even funny. I've read at least 20 pages of her blog entries, (currently on page 21) She's married to THAT husband and has That 1st Child (who is incredibly handsome and adorable) and she's a great blogger, she has Fashionably Modest posts where she shows off her modest attire. The photos are awesome (She is a photographer) but she's found some amazing things herself like

Apple Cores

and has a list of 101 things to do in 1001 days.

Something that I definately want to try and accomplish myself!

The best thing about That Wife is the fact that you can see who she is and she is full of JOY! There are very few pictures without her Gorgeous Smile!

I'm so impressed that she's now in my blog reader and I can't wait to read more.

So Check her out!

This is a Cute Shop

2011-04-14T19:44:00.001-04:00

http://feltandwireshop.com/

Yet, Another Reason to Stop Reading a Book if You Don't Like it

2011-04-08T09:22:00.002-04:00

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/nancy-pearls-rule-of-50-for-dropping-a-bad-book/article1894727/

Short but to the point article.

If you struggle through reading the first 50 pages.. It probably isn't the book for you!

Today I am In love with these

2011-04-07T13:26:00.000-04:00

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/8/view/13929/kostas-syrtariotis-booktree.html

Aren't They Simple & Gorgeous! I have way to many books though!

This Library Technician... Doesn't Lie...

2011-04-07T13:08:00.000-04:00

I was consulting The Whole Library Handbook 3 for unrelated reasons and found, on page 337, a section by Manley, "Excuses for overdue books".

"Why are librarians so obsessed with delinquent borrowers?
"The man reason, according to Dr. Wolfgang Lipkind, consulting behavioral psychologist for the Blackstone Institute of Library Studies, is that librarians as a group are very honest. In fact, his research shows that next to Roman Catholic nuns, librarians are the most honest professional group in America. Librarians, because they are so truthful, find it exceedingly difficult to tolerate patron lies. On the other hand, chronically delinquent borrowers are one of the most dishonest study cohorts that Lipkind has ever researched. The clash between the two groups is, therefore, almost inevitable."

YES, I Finished the Book

2011-04-05T14:51:00.001-04:00

Okay I Can Stop Complaining about a book that took me OVER A MONTH TO READ! BRUTAL!

I just finished it, SUCCESS!

I don't really know what to make of it. It was slow, it was interesting, and the plot twists weren't that shocking, I can't help but be a little disappointed.

I'm glad I can now donate it to the Public Library and hopefully other people will enjoy it more than I did.

WHEW! I'm glad it's over!

I really need to read something a little bit more uplifting and has a better story line lets me feel like it was a great, fabulous, fantastic story.

For my 4 blog followers:

Please do not let this be a poor review for you. If you have wanted to read this, Please still read it. Maybe you'll enjoy it more than I did.

If you have any books that you really enjoyed reading please let me know so that I can have a better time enjoying my favourite pasttime of reading.

Now I don't know why but I'm SO excited to read Water For Elephants!

Will The Book Gods Out there Help Me Finish Reading this Book

2011-04-05T11:10:00.000-04:00

Her Fearful Symmetry

Has anyone out there read it?

If you have... is it just me or is the entire book SLOWER than Molassis in January?

and is it just me or is NOTHING of EVENT happening in ths book except for the realitivly small plot points.

HELP ME OUT HERE!

I've got about 100 pages left and I really really don't want to read it anymore.

I want to read this book next

But I can't read it until I finish Her Fearful Symmetry

Someone help me out here and tell me that the last 100 pages are worth it.

The Lord's Spirit

2011-03-24T14:21:00.003-04:00

"I would like to ask now about the Lord’s Spirit. What is that spirit that He puts on us that He has promised? That spirit is the power to know His will and to do His will. It is the power of personal revelation. We know that all righteous power in the universe comes from the Lord. It is His priesthood power that makes everything happen. All the universe, the planets, all the order that happens in this world and others comes about because of the priesthood power of God. He helps revelation happen in our lives. We share in that when we have that spirit. All the gifts and blessings of the priesthood are available to men and women alike. Those blessings such as the Holy Ghost, the priesthood covenants that we find in temples, and the spiritual gifts that are promised to every one of Heavenly Father’s children are given for our benefit."

"With the Lord’s Spirit, weak and simple women can know what to do. I have been to places in the world where women aren’t able to read. They haven’t had the opportunity or have not been taught, but because of the Lord’s power that is placed upon them, the covenants they have made in the temple, and His Spirit that is poured out upon them, they are powerful women. They can discern His will, solve major problems, and feel peace, comfort, and guidance in their lives. Education is wonderful, but being able to feel the Lord’s power and Spirit upon us is the highest education we can achieve. With that, we have power and influence. Without it, we will not be able to navigate in this life. The adversary will pick us off one by one, and we will be drawn off course by the many, many voices that are out there distracting us. With the Lord’s Spirit upon us, we are strong and solid and will be able to walk with Him."

Julie B Beck, BYU Women's Conference 2010

Word Art

2011-03-10T12:06:00.002-05:00

http://www.tagxedo.com/

Paitence & Happiness

2011-03-10T11:28:00.000-05:00

"Happiness is found only along that well beaten track, narrow as it is, though straight, which leads to life eternal”

David O McKay

"How many times do we look for our happiness at a distance in space or time rather than right now, in our own homes, with our own families and friends?"

James E. Faust

“I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness” (Mosiah 2:41).

“Money is an article that may be used as a universal passport to everywhere except heaven, and as a universal provider of everything except happiness.”

Henrik Ibsen

I saw this over there so I thought I would share

2011-03-08T01:09:00.000-05:00

MMB Community - Visiting Teaching Message - Inspiration & Revelation. I think SO!

Another Site I found Recently

2011-03-01T14:01:00.002-05:00

The Red Headed Hostess

Finding Answers

2011-03-01T09:50:00.002-05:00

It is not the design of heaven that we be rescued from all difficult situations. Rather it's the Lord's will that we learn to handle them.

- Joseph Fielding McConkie

Soon You Will Be Able To Connect the Dots in Toronto

2011-02-25T11:38:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of the Awesome Foundation you will soon be able to connect the dots via aeral images and numbered dots because of Stephanie Avery

Very Cool. Very Cool Ideas on the blog. I would love to do an awesome project.

Now to come up with a truely creative idea.. :)

I want to make some of these.. they look so pretty

2011-02-23T13:25:00.003-05:00

Rose Buds

One More Thing... Save

2011-02-11T11:51:00.001-05:00

Some really great blogs on Saving Money!

~~Girl With the Red Balloon~~ - apparently, I'm not allowed to read it anymore, I thought it was a great blog with other links to great PF blogs, sad day indeed

And Then She Saved - she thanked me for the shout out.. and I like her blog a lot!

Where Did You Go?

2011-02-11T10:59:00.000-05:00

One of My Favourite Blogs Has Disappeared!

If anyone can find it.. Please Let me know the new link.

Thanks...

Here's the Old One! As Newlyweds See it

Look Mom I Can Read

2011-02-11T10:33:00.001-05:00

I read this book a month ago and I really would recommend it to anyone. I was one of those books in the bookstore that I would consider buying but pass on because I had no idea what I would be getting myself into. Fortunately, I picked it up after a couple of months (but not reading it for another couple) So when I decided I would read more this was the first book I picked up. A friend of mine told me about it, and one of the parents of the kids I work for was reading it and told me that it was really good. I couldn't put it down to save my life but I wanted to make it last as long as possible because it was a great read. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for that other side perspective. Without Giving Anything Away it takes place in Germany During WWII and the main character is a German Girl with a German family and German friends who she comes into contact with. There are many twists and turns along her way on her journey, and the entire book is narrated by a unlikely character, Death. I will have to advise you that like A Tree Grows in Brooklyn there are some chapters that may be inappropriate for young readers. ☼☼☼☼/☼☼☼☼☼ 4/5 Suns

So Since A Friend of Mine and I are a little obsessed about this movie, We love it, we watch it all the time, I bought her and I a copy of the book to read. I finally got around to reading it. It was an insanely quick read and I thought that it would live up to the movie, it did in some respects and in others the author should have spent more time with character development, I don't know if it is just the fact that I had hoped that the movie was somewhat like the book, or the actors did an amazing job or what, but it really underwhelmed my excitement. I did like most of the book in it's differences. I have to say that I enjoyed the little details that weren't part of the movie, I enjoyed that they spent time with characters that weren't made out to be important in the book, that was great. I do recommend it if you haven't seen the movie. Even if you have seen the movie, I recommend you read it to form your own opinion about the whole movie is better than the book theory and vice versa. ☼☼☼/☼☼☼☼☼ 3/5Suns!

I'm trying not to procrastinate again today BUT....

2011-02-11T10:01:00.002-05:00

I love the stuff she makes

http://allorahandmade.com/

I like this..

2011-02-10T12:57:00.002-05:00

I guess I will return to regular blogging soon..

but I wanted to make sure I remembered this site

http://www.fredflare.com/customer/home_swww.php

It's Been A While Since...

2010-12-08T11:25:00.000-05:00

But I wanted to share this with everyone.

To Get Myself and anyone else who needs more of the Christmas Spirit

Here's a Great Video Chorus Niagara Flash Mob

Time Out For Women is Returning to Toronto

2009-11-24T13:47:00.005-05:00

Time Out For Women will Be in Toronto MAY 7th and May 8th, 2010.

Yes this is very much a blogworthy post..

I haven't registered yet but if we can get a group of women together we can save on the group rate. It makes a fantastic Christmas present for sisters, friends, mothers, daughters, grandmothers, etc.

I attended a year ago and it was awesome, a super fantastic uplifting weekend. I got to spend some quality time with my mom.

This year, I want to HOTEL it up and have the full fun experience.

Does anyone want to come with me? Message me and I can register for us or click the link here.

To All Women

2009-11-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

When Christ was in his final hours hanging on the cross he saw his mother weeping. He said to her, “Woman, behold thy son.” And then turning to the disciple he said, “Behold thy mother.” Have you ever wondered why he called his heart stricken mother “Woman” rather than calling her by name Mary or even mother? James E. Talmage said, “Can it be thought that in this Supreme moment, our Lord’s concern for the mother from whom he was about to be separated by death was associated with any emotion other than that of honor, tenderness and love?” Then he adds, “‘woman’ was so respectful that it might, and was, addressed to the Queenliest.”

You have that title of “woman” because you are a Queen. Regardless of the # of kids you have, or the weaknesses you have - surely even the mother of Jesus had weaknesses. She left him behind once in Jerusalem. Even the mother of Jesus was imperfect, but with tenderness, honor and love Christ called her “woman”
The same can be said to you. You are a “woman” and Queen - filled with nobility and infinite worth.

Now sometimes you don’t feel noble, you often feel pain, sorrow and loneliness. Sometimes you feel insecure, inadequate, and lacking in faith. Christ knows exactly how you feel. When Lazarus died and was in the tomb Jesus came to Mary and Martha, who were no doubt in paid and sorrow wondering why. In that moment Christ wept. But why did he weep? He already knew he was going to raise Lazarus from the dead. He told Peter that when Jesus first received the message of his dying friend. Yet he wept. Among the many possible reasons is the reason that he was validating Mary and Martha’s pain. He had the solution, but he first took the opportunity to weep with them. Thus acknowledging and validating their pain. He mourned with those that mourned.

“He will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death, which bind his people and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh. That he may know, according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities. “ Alma 7:12
Christ has taken upon himself your personal infirmities and cries with you when you are hurt, when you are lonely, when you feel unworthy, He validates your pain, acknowledges it, and has infinite compassion, understanding and loves you personally.

2 years ago I was trying to put to sleep my very cranky and hysterical 3 year-old daughter, Sarah. She cried hysterically for what seemed like an hour and behaved in deliberately disobedient ways. After I had had enough, I got up to leave and as I got to the door she stopped crying, looked up to me with pleading eyes and said, “Daddy, I’m sorry, will you wipe away my tears.” My heart melted, my anger vanished, and love entered my heart like I had never felt love for a child before. I embraced her, held her tight and wiped away her tears.

Your Father in Heaven is right there with you. No matter what you’ve done in the past (deliberate or otherwise). No matter how inadequate you feel, no matter how much of a failure you feel, no matter how many times you failed and no matter your weaknesses. He will never get up and leave. He will never give up loving you. He will Always be by your side even when you feel alone. He is ready to embrace you with his infinite, unconditional, and personal love for you and will validate how you feel because he has felt your pain. He has borne your grief and he will wipe away your tears because you are his child. A daughter of God with infinite worth, and you are a Queen in his eyes.

Marvin J. Ashton said, “Commune daily with your Heavenly Father who knows you best of all. He knows your talents, your strengths, and your weaknesses. You are here on earth at this time to develop and refine these characteristics. I promise you he will help you. He is aware of your needs. He is aware of your unanswered prayers.”
Pray that you will catch a glimpse of how the Lord views you and feels about you. You are a Daughter of God and he loves you with unconditional and infinite love.

- tripletdad, timeout for women message board

Driven to the Point of Exhaustion

2009-10-27T17:49:00.001-04:00

So in the past week and a half I have been places.

Lots of places in fact some of these places I have been to several times within that time period

In the Past Week and a Half I have been to: The Temple (YAY), Work at two High Schools, one where I am an alum and the other an hour away in NOTL., Welland (For Dinner, For Work, For Family), FHE, and Institute. On the Bulk of these nights after everything is said and done and at least a handful of times I come home after 10pm and that’s after a 1/2 hour drive out to where I live. Last night I woke up for work @ 6am and didn’t get home after FHE until Midnight. Extremely LONG day.

I’m grateful that I can drive and go to all these places but there have been a couple of things I have really wanted to do that I was unable to do.

SLEEP – yes I get enough but it never felt like enough. We just had a YSA Temple conference which was great but over the two day conference (Friday & Saturday) I received about 5 hours of sleep in total. However, with this much sleep I was able to do a baptismal session, play laser tag, dance, attend workshops and hang out with friends.

Do A Fall Photo shoot – Although this might not sound like something that I really desperately want to do, IT DEFINATELY IS. My Friend H is studying for her Photography Certificate and has done some photo sessions and I volunteered myself to be a model because I thought it would be fun to do it with someone who was a good friend and with the Fall Season UPON us. There is a lovely scene to go with the Ridiculously Good Looking Gal that I am.

Study My Scriptures and other Church materials better and Rely on the Lord More Often – With the Loss of My Newest Set of Scriptures (lousy excuse) and the lack of time I spend in the car and working, etc. I haven’t had time to Study and read my scriptures as I would like. The fortunate thing is that I’m praying more fervently and relying on the spirit more to direct me to the direction I should go.

Read – Okay I have had the chance to Read while I’m at work because the LT that is normally there doesn’t give me very much to do, and I’m trying to manage my time better at work and not be on the Computer 100% of the time just doing stuff that I could be doing at home (wasting time with email, Facebook, blogging, surfing the net, performing duties that have to do with my calling, and shopping the net, yes I have been known to shop online while I’m at work) because I’m trying to focus on the Library side of things rather than the (Kicking kids off the computer thing, with the software installed on the LT computer) because I want to have further training and expose myself to as much library-ness instead of boredom on the computer thing. So I can tell future employers that I spend the bulk of the time checking in and out, shelving, helping students, helping students research, assisting teachers finding materials, etc. Which is the right thing to do. So if they don’t give me anything to do or, don’t give me enough to do while I’m there for 3 days, I bring a book and read it, essentially I’m improving my reading skills so that when someone is looking for a recommendation (I read lots of Teen Lit) or needing research assistance, to picking out the facts amid the fiction in the research, I think it is definitely beneficial.

Anyway, with all that said and done. I was a SLOTH today, slept in, played on the computer, read the zillion emails, did stuff for my calling, etc. It has been a very relaxing day and I’m glad it’s not quite over yet, I still have at least 5 hours left of my day. WOOHOO!

I may even post again later. SWEET!

Books Lately

2009-10-22T09:47:00.005-04:00

So I've been on this quest to read all the books I have bought within the last year and a half. Yes I have added to this list recently because I've bought a couple books but I've managed to read and get my number down so it's almost under 30.

But I wanted to share with you My Book Reviews of a couple of the titles because they were much awesomeness.

And Part of the Reason I wanted to blog was because I love to read books and I am in the Library Field so I thought Hey I could write a blog about what I read. Even though there are probably about a zillion other book blogs out there. I wanted it to just be about my lovely life and the books I read which is probably what every other book blog is about as well.

So ONTO The Books!

I've had this book on my reading list for a very, very long time and did not have the chance to read it until very recently. I've got to say that no wonder this book is an acclaimed book, The story takes place in the first two decades of the 20th Century. It was written at the beginning of the last century and published during WWII and it tells such a wonderful beautiful story. When I first began reading it the size of it daunted me a bit and the story didn't move right away but in its simplicity a wonderful story takes place. It's a coming of age in Brooklyn New York, a young girl goes through her daily life and speaks in such a wonderful voice Francie Nolan grows up living the little dream she has to grow up. Her grandmother instilled on her mother the value of education and she instilled it on Francie. You see the world through her eyes and through the good points and the bad points it is simply grand to see the industrial revolution happen through her eyes. I loved every moment of it even during the most alarming moments without giving any plot details right away, this is definately in the TEEN section at Chapters and Probably Borders & Barnes and Noble in the states. The content is definately shocking and alarming to say the least. Even with the sad moments the characters revolving Francie have their own story her aunts, her mother and father, her brother, and they are simply wonderful.

Rate it: Read it! ☼☼☼☼/☼☼☼☼☼ 4/5 Suns

So Initially when I read this book the first time, I had to return it to the library after I Inter-Library Loaned it (Borrowed it from another Library in Ontario, not my own) Because a page into it there is some ADULT content which suprised the heck out of me. It didn't go into to much detail but after reading A Handmaid's Tale. I was afraid it was going to turn into a really not fun book to read. However, with the Movie coming out and looking really good I decided to bunker down and buy it. So I Literally laid down on my couch for hours and I was hooked, the story is a little sci-fi and a little romance. I absolutely love Henry and Claire together. I loved that Henry Flashed Forward and Backward to signifigant points of his life as he figured out why he Shifted through time as he did. It went through the good and the bad days and the moments in time when Claire was on her own waiting for Henry to return from whatever point in time he had travelled to. I really have to say that although the language was colourful sometimes the story was awesome, I loved that Henry was able to exist when he was already in that time. I even thought that through their hardships their relationship was able to be as strong as it could and as honest as it could. It was such a good book, although there is some adult content and strong language(It is in the ADULT section afterall) I really enjoyed it.

Rate It: Read It unless you find that you shouldn't because of the strong adult content!

☼☼☼☼/☼☼☼☼☼ 4/5 Suns

Full of It: Joy 100%

2009-10-19T01:12:00.001-04:00

So I love it when at the beginning of the weekend you have the feeling like it’s going to be a fantastic weekend, and then you attend yet another YSA (young single adult) conference, one you’ve only missed once in the past 9 almost 10 years.

Then you get maybe four hours of sleep, drive back to the conference to be back in time for the workshops, lunch (which I didn’t have an sense that I was hungry) and as we were around the lunch table the subject of Go Karting Came Up. So a good group of friends of mine all jumped into a friends car to go to this indoor go karting race track, to find out it was closed. After a few rounds of Who Can Do This the Longest (I will explain this at another date) we soon realized that it was “CLOSED TEMPORARILY” we didn’t want to head back without doing anything fun so we quickly decided to find out if there was a Laser Tag place nearby which seriously was so much fun. Although the 20, 8 year old kids persistently ganged up on us it was fun running around in Sunday dress shooting lasers at my friends.

Another awesome part of the weekend was being in the Temple. I can’t even begin to express that I haven’t fully appreciated being in the temple until very recently, I realized that it is probably one of the best places to be at peace. I had been attending the temple and serving by proxy and not focusing on how the temple can benefit me. I get to sit among a great people doing the same service and I feel like all the worry and the weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I then get to think about how far I can go. I think about the things I need to accomplish spiritually. How much potential I have. I love it, I can’t wait for the day that I can attend the temple and receive further knowledge and light. It will definitely be a wonderful day.

I love that I get to spend time with so many amazing people doing things that are of similar interest and that even though we all may be extremely different we get to go and just have Good Clean Fun, without the smells of alcohol and drugs, and the smell of a place that I have no place in with a clear and clean conscience.

I really appreciate that I have made some amazing choices to be steady and sure and immovable but moving towards a goal where I will have the opportunity to become the woman my family wants me to become, my friends want me to become, I want to become, and my Heavenly Father wants me to become.

I’m so grateful that at the moment that I have my old scriptures, I was really sad to loose the scriptures I’ve had for almost my entire time as a Young Single Adult. I am also so excited for the new scriptures that I will have. But since I got my YSA scriptures stolen I had to rely on scriptures that I used to the point where the spine is no longer attached to the bindings of the book. But I was excited to find that even without the lovely book tabs I was able to find the scriptures that the workshop instructors wanted us to find, I can’t even begin to express that I didn’t even know that I knew the scriptures so well. I was so excited.

So now that it is way past the time I wanted to stay up, I think I will post this blog for now. I absolutely loved this weekend.

Death To Turkey and Other Things

2009-10-12T13:46:00.002-04:00

So After a Fabulous Weekend we decided to kill the already frozen turkey and eat every morsel. It was a pretty uneventful sunday of two awesome talks by some good friends, of replacing my temple recommend and trying to figure out why we now have elders in our branch, they drive me crazy, to trying to walk through the congested hallways which for our branch doesn't always end up that way since there are only about 40 of us YSA everyone decided to stand right in the middle of the hallway which left no room for me to get through.

I came home to a wonderful house full of good smelling food and no crazy brothers + girlfriend A were home yet, I was disappointed and starving and was too excited to stay at church because of my love of turkey because I couldn't eat the delightful food yet because they hadn't arrived.

Upon their arrival not much later we finished all the necessary food prep and sat down to eat our heart and stomachs out and trust me at 4am my stomach was still working to digest all the food I ate.

After we ate we played Things and even with one brother who was under the weather we pulled out some great fun. I'm so glad and grateful that I get to spend time with at least one part of my family (my elder brother is still in CowTown and my mother and grandmother were in KingTown)

So today I am bound for another turkey dinner and don't know how my stomach will take it but I'm glad that I'm able to provide transport to a gal who might not get a turkey dinner otherwise. She's super sweet She Deserves it!

On Sugar Overload Lately

2009-10-10T01:01:00.001-04:00

SO I’ve got to tell you how much I love sugar. I don’t know why I’ve been craving it insanely crazy this week, I have eaten a huge amount of chocolate, doughnuts, cinnamon bread, brownies, gummy candy, etc.

As much as I just would love to be able to eat everything under the sun, it’s a huge weight that I don’t need. Plus after awhile of eating some sugar I sit there and it doesn’t taste like anything appealing anymore.

So, I really have no idea what I’m going to do. I love baking and I don’t want to stop baking and I love eating chocolate like you wouldn’t believe.

I know I gave up sprite for a good 5 months or so. I’ve only had the occasional sprite/pop/soda ever since, so that might be part of it. I’m over compensating for the sugar in the sprite.

SO I really have to find some natural sugar (apples, bananas, grapes, etc.) and eat enough of them to reduce my sugar highs and lows. Because that’s what it really is.

The other thing that gets me is that I will eat sugar over the course of the day and be fine. Then there are those rare occasions where I definitely late night sweet binge, and then sometimes, I have really bad nights of sleep because I ate so much.

Anyway, I’m really hoping to curb all this craziness before Hallowe’en or Else I’m going to have even bigger problems with sugar because there are even more opportunities to eat it even more.

So that’s it for now. I will probably do my best to get through my turkey dinner and stuff without an exorbitant amount of extra food.

Sit Down and Wait for The Walrus

2009-10-09T01:09:00.001-04:00

Much of my time lately has been spent in the vehicle known as Sammy Dean.

My Dear Sammy Dean and I have had a good and bad couple of weeks.

I went to a YSA dance in “Big City” with three other girls from my branch, I drove, and realized that I was “STARVING” so after Institute the one girl and I went to get some good food. Upon our return I parked out front of the Chapel and headed inside to dance the night away.

Throughout the night I found out two of the girls I brought were not coming with me (not to happy about that) and that we would have to drive back to pick up a friends car (45 min to 1 hour) away from my house, before I got home.

At the end of the night, I was so thrilled to get an email from I guy who I want to get to know better (score!) and headed out towards my car.

Upon walking up to it I found my rear passenger car door smashed in and my entire purse which included my scriptures, my cell phone, my camera, my wallet, my iPod, GONE!

So afterwards, I had to cancel my debit & credit cards and deal with the fact that I now had to fix a window $200+ to fix, buy a new cell phone (daddy wouldn’t not want me to go without one) and buy a new iPod and camera.

So since then I’ve slowly been replacing cards and electronics but I’m left with the sense of “What else do I have to do?”

I have the feeling that I’ve got to watch and make sure that I have everything with me all the time.

I’m really praying and hoping that I’ll get my scriptures and my SD card back with almost a years worth of photos on it. Who wants random photos from a LDS wedding? (I found a website that showed photos from cameras and asked people if that camera was theirs, got to find that website again)

Anyway, This weekend marks the Canadian Thanksgiving which is always good, one turkey dinner until the second last weekend in October when I get my second turkey dinner. I can’t wait. Yum Yum.

I’m also hoping to head to a craft sale with a friend of mine. She is taking photography classes and I asked her if she wanted me to be a model and do a session. So that I could possibly give them out as Christmas gifts and the like.

So that’s the update for now. Hopefully I’ll give more time and effort to my blog in the coming days, weeks, months, and years.

I owe it all to Wilford Wooddruff! Thank You!

Giveaway & Fantabulously Frugal

2009-08-18T16:55:00.002-04:00

Fantabulous Giveaways and deals are always going on here @ Fantabulously Frugal right now she has one from NOVICA which is in association with National Geographic, they have toys, table linens, jewelery and more so go there now and enter the contest :)

thoughts and more thoughts

2009-07-16T15:14:00.001-04:00

I’m not afraid to say that I’ve kissed a frog, I’ve had several crushes that lasted for a long time and a really long friendship that could have been a relationship on more than one occasion and it never really manifested itself into anything beyond a friendship.

I’ve come to realize that I value people more and more and it just becomes difficult to even see that a relationship with another guy. I don’t give up on that though, I can see myself where I want to be I just have the utmost patience too much maybe that It’s hard to see where the blessings are.

I’ve really come to understand that I don’t really know what I’m looking for. I have come to know that I know I’m looking for someone who will love me unconditionally but I don’t have any other sort of list of looks or attributes. I just know that I want to be sealed and stay together for eternity. I don’t want to have my future posterity to live through hardships like I have.

I pray constantly to understand what love really is. I’m afraid that in the whole process of seeing my parents separate I found it more and more difficult to even go on dates because I didn’t even know how to I was supposed to tell that I really liked or even loved a guy. It was really very difficult.

So now that I’m in my late 20s I realize that I can see love and feel love sometimes but I’m not 100% there yet. I feel like the feeling I have left some of my insecurities behind but I feel like I’m more and more ready for possibilities but I don’t see the opportunities. I don’t know if that makes sense or not.

So that’s part of my thoughts today, I am going to get offline and make a bigger dent in my pile and finish a book or two.

Feel free to share you thoughts. I’d love to know any advice or insight you might have for me.

Happenings in the Right Direction

2009-07-01T01:07:00.001-04:00

So I don’t have much news but the good thing is that in the past week or so I have applied to two new jobs which is a great step into the right direction. They are two jobs I am qualified for I just have to pray and hope that I have the chance for an interview. So pray for me.

In other news I also had quite the awakening and I feel like I really need to rely on assistance from my Heavenly Father. Things brings about my need to read my scriptures more often I’ve always tried to read the ensign and other LDS speeches online but I need to focus on reading my scriptures. It really does make my day much more smoother.

I had a funny thing happen because of reading my scriptures, I have read my scriptures one day and that entire day everything went completely wrong but It was like I really didn’t get upset. It just seemed like it was completely normal that everything could possibly go wrong.

I made another new goal for myself. Between May 08 to June of this year I bought approximately 39 books. During that time I did read some of the books but I didn’t nearly make a dent in the pile. So on Friday I bunkered down on the hot day, yes i should have sat outside, but I sat inside on the couch and finished two books. It was awesome. I’m determined to be under 30 soon and the sooner I do that my friend H.G. and I are going to have a little party. I’m so excited about it.

I am also getting really excited to hit up one of my fave places PEI. I get to spend some time with my mom and hopefully I can do a bunch of stuff and meet some new people. I’m going see if I can contact the church leadership and see if there are any YSA that I can hang out with while I’m there so that I can party it up PEI style.

So that’s about it for now. I’ll probably have a tonne more to say within the next couple of days or so. I am so excited for the summer and Tomorrow is the Day it Officially Starts for me!

BatGate 2009

2009-06-14T23:50:00.004-04:00

So Tonight my brother came over for a brief visit to see my dad and myself, and we had a good hour or so together before he headed over to his friends house. So Afterwards my dad and I were just talking and watching television.

When Overhead I see something FLY into the Kitchen which was a whole lot bigger than a bug but slightly smaller than a bird. It took my dad and I several moments or so to actually figure out what type of flying animal it was. Then we realized it was a bat.

It flew all over the house. Then I flipped on all the lights and closed all the bedroom and the bathroom doors so it wouldn't end up in our bedrooms and removed the screens off two of the windows and opened them.

Finally 30 to 45 minutes later the bat found it's way outside so I quickly closed the unscreened windows and it didn't come back into the house again..

It was quite the experience tonight, Fortunately this wasn't the first time we had to deal with a bat in our house. I think this is the third experience and I now know how to get a bat out of the house!

If you ever need to know how here are a couple of tips.

if you notice that it is a bat and are slightly fearful don't be afraid to don a bedsheet or a window screen to protect yourself
bats like the dark, if the bat is flying around your house turn ON all the lights so if it's dark outside the bat will eventually fly out the window
be prepared it will be a memorable experience for all involved.

Week In Review

2009-05-24T11:05:00.003-04:00

So I hate to be the type of person who does "WEEK in Review" postings but I thought I would wait until the weekend since it has been quite a busy week.

MONDAY - It was a long weekend this past weekend and on Monday I was going to be lazy maybe finish reading a book or two, maybe watch a movie, however I was Hijacked by the SISTER MISSIONARIES to do some Fun Filled Missionary Work. It included a walk down the waterfront trail contacting, a really good teaching experience, a missionary making me eat a falafel (wasn't a fan), knocking on doors and ending up at FHE with them, and then finding out I wasn't doing the lesson after all and driving them home.

TUESDAY - Worked today, actually had a list of things to do from the librarian that's away so that was a BIG PLUS because I worked there all week, and I actually did everything, SWEET! OH THAT DAY, WAS MY CRAZIEST LONGEST DRIVE HOME EVER BEHIND A TRUCK! I never want to repeat it again, it's a good story

WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY - good tired long days of work.

FRIDAY - My friend H. and I went to the local bookstore and talked and chatted and bought some books. I am no longer allowed to buy a book until I read at least all the books I've started (7) and read all the ones I've bought but never read (39+) I'm going to see how well I do, Hey I might even save money.

SATURDAY - Crazy Day, Got to Sleep In (YAY!!) Went to See Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian (Good Movie, First one slightly better but way good) I love museums! Went to a Missionary homecoming for two guys who just got home, so nice, just hung out and chatted and ate good food, good night :)

One of the funniest things that occured every day this week was when I was driving to work everyday, I saw this sight off to the side of the road behind a fence.

It was like they were saying good morning to me and wishing me on my way. It was sweet of them.

Temple Quote

2009-05-22T10:12:00.000-04:00

President George Q. Cannon said

"Every foundation stone that is laid for a Temple, and every Temple completed . . . , lessens the power of Satan on the earth, and increases the power of God and Godliness, moves the heavens in mighty power in our behalf, invokes and calls down upon us the blessings of the Eternal Gods, and those who reside in their presence."

["The Logan Temple," Millennial Star 39, no. 46 (12 November 1877): 743]

Another Quote

2009-05-19T11:41:00.003-04:00

Elder Marvin J Ashton said
“Sisters, do not allow yourselves to be made to feel inadequate or frustrated because you cannot do everything others seem to be accomplishing. Rather, each should assess her own situation, her own energy, and her own talents, and then choose the best way to mold her family into a team, a unit that works together and supports each other. Only you and your Father in Heaven know your needs, strengths, and desires. Around this knowledge your personal course must be charted and your choices made.” Elder Richard G. Scott said
"Your Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son love you perfectly. They would not require you to experience a moment more of difficulty than is absolutely needed for your personal benefit or for that of those you love."
". . .The Lord’s plan is to exalt you to live with Him and be greatly blessed. The rate at which you qualify is generally set by your capacity to mature, to grow, to love, and to give of yourself. He is preparing you to be a god. You cannot understand fully what that means, yet, He knows. As you trust Him, seek and follow His will, you will receive blessings that your finite mind cannot understand here on earth."

Quotes From David A. Bednar's CES May Talk

2009-05-17T10:09:00.003-04:00

Elder Neal A. Maxwell said,

“The youth of this generation have a greater capacity for obedience than any previous generation.”

President George Q. Cannon said,

"God has reserved spirits for this dispensation who have the courage and determination to face the world, and all the powers of the evil one, visible and invisible, to proclaim the Gospel, and maintain the truth, and establish and build up the Zion of our God, fearless of all consequences. He has sent these spirits in this generation to lay the foundation of Zion never more to be overthrown, and to raise up a seed that will be righteous, and that will honor God, and honor him supremely, and be obedient to him under all circumstances"

Check this Out

2009-05-15T00:26:00.002-04:00

Fabulously Frugal is giving stuff away, it's all really good nice stuff every day in May.. Go Check It out! :)

Things that I've Just got to get off my chest

2009-05-11T00:43:00.002-04:00

*continue composting this message if necessary*

Things that may have happened recently that are of utmost importance

I Was Fired without warning (going on three weeks ago) don't really want to get into much more detail than I have to at the moment
I paid my tithing this week, yay
I found a paralell in the parable of the good samaritan in the little engine that could, more info about that later it's good
I'm almost finished my first John Green book Looking For Alaska It's been one heck of a story but it's One Heck of A Good One!
Had a job interview on friday for a Mat Leave it was good, need to take the time to make my brain meet up with my mouth for all the words that were missing and no i don't think I made up any words. Keep prayers and good vibes coming.
Going to make a stronger emphasis on doing visiting teaching for my great girls. They need it.
Going to try and figure out a service project for branch
Need to get to the temple this month! (if i ever go to take upon the endowment covenants i've got to get to the temple, i missed the last two potential trips, which is really bad for me, I'm usually a regular attender)
Want to take family names to do baptisms
Need to read scriptures more frequently
Need to fill up my awesome quote journal from RS lesson and other quotes i've read/heard recently.

I have more to say and Will write again shortly.. I just had to get a couple of thoughts for future reference and blog posts!

Oh and AuthorBee, I'm still figuring out my Jane Austen Guy.. Don't Worry I didn't forget!

weekend whirlwind photo story

2009-04-06T13:08:00.011-04:00

so whatever you can guess from these pictures is probably true

picture #1 my car

i was driving to church for general conference on saturday when i got to the bottom of the escarpment where the stop light was red and my ford stalled, I then got it restarted (thank goodness!) then promptly after conference I went to get my oil changed since getting it changed the car seems fine.

picture #2 - Jane Bennett

I think this is the second time in blog history I'm mentioning Pride and Prejudice (GO ME!) I watched it consecutavely over two days with my dad (yay dad, for watching it!) I told him that the dress Jane wears at the end when she's being proposed to is a potential wedding dress/temple dress for me, when I tie the knot & go to the temple one day! I also bought an austen inspired novel over the weekend from Mr. Darcy's point of view, should be a good read

picture # 3 - Thomas S. Monson

General Conference was fantastic. I love it when the talks are inspired and especially meaningful in my life, I have to go back and reread what I wrote when I was taking notes. Lots of fun little quotables :)

picture # 4 - Ginormica also known as Susan from Monsters Vs. Aliens in 3D

went to see it two rows from the front in the movie theatre, was VERY impressed, Was even MORE impressed that sitting two rows from the front with 3D glasses didn't enduce vomitting. I may go see this movie again so that I don't have to sit that close to the front and I can score another pair of 3D glasses, they're really cool.

picture # 5 - TRUTH OR DARE

between conference sessions yesterday I hung out with two of my friends E and S who are brother and sister, they're really nice and super fun and we ate a delicious unexpected lunch (score) of pasta! Which i am learning to love all over again. I'm not a big fan of spagetti but if you put other shaped pasta on my plate with spagetti sauce without meat count me in.. and then we hung out on the front lawn and sidewalk of the church and played truth or dare. It was fun and very short lived, but it was very enjoyable. Plus the weather was really nice outside and it was bright and sunny :D

I've Come a Long Way...

2009-03-31T10:55:00.003-04:00

So this post embarks a milestone 30 posts since this blog began, now why am i celebrating this? I am celebrating this because i've blogged in the past and never been very consistant. I very recently came across an old website of mine that was my first attempt at any blogging at all and i was amazed that i was still a pretty smart chick. It was way back when i was still studying to be a Library Gal. Wow, so little time has passed 7 years but it seems like a lifetime. I have to say my priorities have changed a little bit since then, now I'm a working Library Gal and I have changed my focus to include my crazy attempts at dating and defining myself more. I have to say along the way I do want to share things I'm extremely proud of and seriously excited for.

I can't wait to share more.. I'm trying to figure out blogger and I'm really hoping to include more of made me a remarkable person.

I'm into a little bit of everything and I'd love to know what people would want to find out.

So in the comments ask me some questions and I'll do my best to respond to them..

The Great Non-Date Fiasco

2009-03-26T10:03:00.005-04:00

So Very Recently a new guy joined the church and our fair little branch. It was great he seemed like a nice guy (and yes he is a nice guy) he's funny, and sweet, and exactly my age. So automatically I'm like sweet, I'll have someone to relate to because there is no one born in my year of birth that is a guy anymore because the last one got married (which was fine) he and I are good friends.

So this "new" guy and I have been striking up some pretty amazing conversation and I was finally ready to ask this guy out on a "date".

Here's where the trouble happened.

I wanted to make sure that he didn't know it was an actual date because I didn't want him to "run & scatter"

So I proceeded to ask him to go to the temple activity that was two weeks from the day I asked him. No problem, well enough in advance and he didn't have a problem with it.

So the next Sunday I find out that one of the councillors in the branch presidency had secured a box for the Raptors Basketball Game and he's doing a draw of YSA so that it's fair and he's pulling names. Perfect! What is always going to stand in my way of a "date"? SPORTS!

So his name gets pulled and previous to this I tell him he can't go, which he then becomes a little disappointed but he realizes that he's already made a commitment with me which he doesn't turn back on but. So I was instantly a little happier because he put his priorities in front a basketball game. I'm instantly uber excited.

So the "Temple Friday Arrives" I find out some semi-not good news that some other girl likes him which disappoints me a little, and by the time I'm in the car I've psyched myself out of having a good time, but just going to enjoy the temple no matter what.

So I pick him up and i'm a little late (mormon standard time hazard, I usually am not a MST offender but this day I was) he gets in the car makes a huge deal out of the fact that I'm 10 minutes late and then asks me if I can go pick up another girl we are both friends with on the way to the temple to come with us. BUMMER!

At that point I was a little disappointed. I was looking forward to getting to know this guy a little better and being the kind person I am I said yes and didn't worry about the "date" anymore. We have a good 3 way conversation in the car on the way up to the temple and I stop worrying about what to do, etc.

So in the baptistry I decide that I'm going to sit beside the guy before the opening prayer which is fine. Then the Baptistry coordinator makes a big deal about ysa men and ysa women shouldn't worry about boundaries when they sit on the "waiting to be baptised side" and I instantly feel like I was pointed out because I decide to sit on the said "guys only" side.

The rest of the baptistry session is fine, I sit and watch baptisms enjoy the spirit, and enjoy my time.

Afterwards the YSA all get together and have a little YSA testimony meeting and a Mix 'N' Mingle. In which he sits beside me at the testimony meeting (HOOHAW) and then we mix 'n' mingle it up where he talks to lots of people, I talk to people I don't get to see very often whom I only see if i actually go to the big institute class in the big city or go to big city dances. Then I go over and talk to the guy with this other girl whom I drove up and all is fine and good.

So then the night is over and I decide to get going (at this point in our "date" i was going to ask if he wanted to go to a local dessert place for some sweet snacks before we go home but I completely chickened out at this point.) So as we walk to the car the guy says that the girl can sit in the front and he sits in the back (total mood killer at that point for me) and the girl talks all the way home and I can't get a word in edgewise! (I completely hate this because I'm not the best conversationalist at times) I drop her off and I'm slightly more relieved because we can talk in the car again.

So we are about at his house and we're just chatting about stuff and I completely on focused on stopping at an upcoming stop sign and then, I run through it. So I then feel like an idiot. We say our goodbyes and I drive home feeling like it was a good night but a really bad night all at the same time.

So now, I have to get out of this I'm a "really bad dater" and I don't know what to do to improve because I've never had a really "good date" I'm more than ready to date anyone now though I think because I really want to have a good time and not worry about the pressure of a good date.. Just to date is experience under my belt.

The Incredible Shrinking Shirt Size

2009-03-11T09:59:00.003-04:00

So, I just like to mention that I am trying to work on my weight management and everything, In the meantime, recently I went to find out what my proper bra size was and it turned out that I was completey wrong in my bra size and i went from a larger cup size to a much smaller once
(a C to a B)

So then several months later I went to the same clothing store and found out that i went from a 2x to a 1x.. I was so shocked I couldn't believe it. I then bought some nice 1x tops that I fell in love with.

So we have these stores in Canada that are Superstores, you can get groceries, pharmacy, beauty, electronics, and clothes all in one store (Walmart Superstores) Called Great Canadian Superstore and they have a Clothing line called joe

So I was there to pick up a couple of groceries yesterday and I passed by the joe section in the store and saw a cute top and was like, hey that looks long enough, it's modest and has a cute accent on the shoulders of the sleeves, I should try it on.

So I asked to go into the fitting room to try it on. I was very skeptical because I thought it wouldn't fit at all.

BOY was I wrong. the XL totally fit.. I was so stoaked and couldn't believe the price $12 so I was like maybe I should see if I can find any other tops (I didn't) but now I can totally check around the next time I go and see if there are other things that i like.

So I now can buy nice modest and inexpensive clothes..

THAT WILL FIT!

WOOHOO!

Sprite Update

2009-03-06T14:48:00.003-05:00

Upon my recent Break Up With Sprite

This News Article about BPA (Bisphenol A) appeared on one of the websites i visit..

BPA Found In Pop Cans

I feel like I may have dodged a bullet!

YARN BALL OF DOOM

2009-03-06T10:34:00.009-05:00

So Very Recently I Bought a Really Nice Knit Hat from a fancy hat store (i love it, it's adorable) It's green. But without knowing it about a week or so previous to buying the hat, I had bought some nice green yarn which was an almost similar shade of green to make a scarf with.

In the Past I have been a starter of knitted or crochet items but I'm more determined than ever to complete this project. So I've been knitting away, and last night while I was working on my scarf when alas I reach THE KNOT OF DOOM yes, this knot then made it into the KNOT BALL HALL OF FAME FOR ME, and after about a half an hour, I KILLED THE KNOT OF DOOM and untangled all the yarn and it is all in a nice big Yarn Ball now.

Which makes me very excited because now I can keep knitting and if i need more yarn

which i probably will, I know to TRY not to make another KNOT OF DOOM.. I'll have to be more careful. But Sheesh Don't they make yarn not to not so you can actually knit it properly..

I'm Breaking Up With You Sprite!

2009-03-03T22:51:00.005-05:00

So Once Upon a Time when I was in High School. I bought a bottle of Sprite almost daily and drank it and put it in my locker.

My Locker Friend who had his locker next to mine, at the time suggested I see if I could try and see how many bottles I could fit in my locker, the last day of school came and went and I can't even remember how many bottles of sprite i had drunk throughout that year.

Many years since then, I have had a can, a cup, or a bottle of this stuff. Until at least two weeks ago when I realized that I wasn't out buying it anymore, or drinking it.. I had decide last tuesday (Pancake Tuesday) that I was going to give it up for LENT (a practice that isn't practiced by the LDS) but I thought I would give it a shot and give it up, not buy it, not drink it.

I almost gave in today because I went out and bought gas at a gas station and had the thought, "You know what would be nice right now, an Aero Bar and a Sprite" but my other thought was. Maybe another time.. WHAT!!! Maybe another time... I love you Sprite I really do.. You go really nice with that Aero bar and you're really nice to drink cold and I passed IT UP!! AM I CRAZY!

I realize now that yes I did want it but I can go without having it. It isn't easy! I hope it will be worth it!

If I Lost My Camera,

2009-02-27T15:11:00.001-05:00

I would want someone to post that they had found it and they were willing to return it on this site Found Cameras and Orphaned Pictures

A Happy Coincidence

2009-02-27T14:21:00.004-05:00

I love when you don't realize you've written something

until after the fact.

authorbee sent me a message and I replied

and it turned into this!

it's the small things that crack me up!

A Little Bit of Drive & A Little Bit of Motivation

2009-02-27T09:32:00.007-05:00

So this past monday night we had our lovely YSA FHE and I was in charge of the activity so we had a photo scavenger hunt..

It turns out that it was a ton of fun.

Here are a couple of photos from our journeys.

A Little Penguin Love
University Tower Happiness and COLDNESS!

Mad Driving Skills (Blindfolded, What!?!)

I had everyone high fiving, feet measuring, showing off their mad tableau skills for Book of Mormon and Doctine and Covenants stories.

I can't believe it went over so well & that I want to do it again! I had fun thinking of creative things and laughing the entire night and I'm still laughing at these pictures..

I Love You!

2009-02-27T01:29:00.001-05:00

"Happiness is the most attractive accessory a young woman can have."

2009-02-23T14:42:00.012-05:00

Books Books and More Books

Have you Ever Felt Like This?

Not only Do I feel Like This On a Regular Basis But I have a Ton of Reading Material that is not only taking over my shelves (it already has) but it has now appeared in boxes and laundry baskets throughout my room. The books are talking to me begging to me that they want to be read.. I can't wait to start them and finish them!

Here are a couple of titles I've started but still have to finish

and here are some books I can't wait to start

Yes I am A Librarian...

2009-02-20T10:49:00.004-05:00

Today I had a student come up to me and basically mock me to my face because I went to school to be a librarian.

Yes I went to school

Yes I have a diploma/degree

I do more than shelve books

or sit on my duff and tell people to "SHH"

Yes I am smarter than you and can block every single game site you go on because you should be in a class or elsewhere because computers are for class work purposes only.

NO Facebook, NO MSN, No GAMES!

DONT YOU GET IT.

I love that grade 11 & 12 boys think they're smarter than me..

I have a special program that can block you every single game you try.

SO WHY DO YOU KEEP TRYING!

I know my software, my databases, my internet search engines

DON'T YOU DARE THINK YOU ARE GREATER THAN THE LIBRARIAN!

*ahem.*

as much as I love filling in for the library techs of the board one thing will never change.

High School Students who think that there isn't anything else to do but play games

High School Students Who Talk Back To the Librarian

High School Students Who Continually Think I don't know what I'm talking about.

I think that principals & teachers should be aware of where all their students are. I know you are busy and have other classes but they should definately be checked up on so that they can be dealt with the proper concequences.

One thing that I will not tolerate from now on is the fact that they think everything is a joke when I come in as a supply and think that they can take over.

Just pull up your pants and realize you soon will be an adult.

A Little More Love.. A Little More Appreciation

2009-02-18T14:52:00.007-05:00

So I started off my week with Family day where I didn't do anything at all that day except watch television and veg in front of the tv. I did spend time with my dad though so that was a plus.

A Big Highlight of my week was getting to go over to my friend Belle's house to watch...

Pride & Prejudice!

Words Cannot Express How Much I Love This version... As Much as I love...

Which were also provided for consumption.. Which is always the best thing in the world!

So I was blog-surfing again today and found MORE great websites

one said website lead to this YouTube Video

Haven't You Always Wondered What News Anchors Do During Commericals?

The Wii Connundrum

I really want one! I will have some money to buy one, but there are so many other things that I could do with the money like..

pay off more student loan
pay off more of my car
go on a road trip
go on a vacation (PEI, North Carolina, Utah, Calgary, I can't decide where)
buy books
buy church books
save money to buy an even bigger item, left to be determined.

I think that is all I've got to say at the moment, I've been trying to update for two days and I saved it yesterday because I ran out of time.

So Hopefully I'll have more to write soon, within the next day or so. I'm really hoping to become a more frequent blogger.

Chow for now!

quotables.. and other things..

2009-02-04T12:14:00.003-05:00

"make a list of important thigns to do. At the top of your list, put 'Eat Chocolate!' Now you know you can get at least one thing done today..

the excuse I've been really busy is an understatement. I was working at one of my favourite places in the entire world from October '08to the Beginning '09 A BOOKSTORE! I loved it and I miss it entirely!

On The Flipside, since not being employed at the bookstore. I have worked almost every day in elementary school and high school libraries February minus a couple of days.

Not only that.. I got a RAISE with both of the school boards I work for so when pay day comes on friday and two fridays from now.. i'll have a good sum of money..

So Very Exciting! :D

in other news. i've found a couple of blogs at the right side of the blog that i've come across that I like. Feel Free to Check them out! They're From Different aspects and viewpoints but they're also kinda cool. :)

I Really Don't Believe It..

2008-09-30T16:48:00.003-04:00

This by far was one of the craziest days ever... well yesterday was also a crazy day but let's start with that.

On Sunday Night I had to drive my brother home to my mom's house and on the way home my battery light in my car started flickering for no reason so my mom and I checked it out and couldn't see what was wrong with the car.

So Yesterday I called the Mechanic place and they said to come right down. I also had a job interview to attend that afternoon and was 99% sure that my car would be okay and it was just the battery and I'd be able to get the battery looked after and then go onward to my job interview.

HOWEVER...

It didn't end up that way...

I got a good third into the trip when my car battery and alternator gave up the ghost and I was stranded on the shoulder of the road for roadside assistance.

I waited there for Roadside Assistance for about 1 and 1/2 hours.

I was sure glad that I was able to call Roadside assistance and the place where my job interview was because I thought I would be SUNK!

SO after the Roadside assistance came loaded my truck on the flatbed drove down the escarpment and arrived at the mechanic they found out that it wasn't just the battery at all but the alternator.

So after it was fixed with a hefty price tag.. I called the job interview place and they said that they would call to reschedule my interview.

SO TODAY.

I woke up this morning and just did my morning routine and then the phone rang.

It was a local grocery store and they were calling for me.

They told me...

I WON A COMPUTER!

WHA!! I don't believe it. I had entered a contest online through the grocery store.

It's a Dell Laptop. It's interesting to note that I had previously been looking for a laptop for a couple of weeks but nothing too serious and then WHAM! I have won one.

Here's Lappy 1525!!
(If anyone gets any part of that reference.. that would be awesome)

It completely made my day. I can't wait to pick it up!

I also called the job interview place and rescheduled my appointment for tomorrow afternoon. I'm so excited!

Thoughts... Thoughts... And More Thoughts...

2008-09-25T12:49:00.010-04:00

I just thought I'd do a quick update post and tell you of all the places I have been to over the summer..

I am more than grateful to not only spend a week in PEI but spend some time in Nauvoo Illinois. I can't even begin to express my immense gratitude for the Peace that is felt in both places and the huge church historical significance in Nauvoo.

I got to see the Nauvoo Pageant while I was there and it was awesome!

I really have to go back!

Nauvoo

Carthage Jail

Nauvoo Temple

Joseph Smith Statue Right Across the Street from the Temple.

Photo I took from across the street of the Temple

PEI

Kissing a Frog - Hoping he'll be a handsome prince

A Kangaroo in PEI?!?!

Although the weather was crummy in PEI we did get to see Anne and Gilbert and it was fabulous. It's going to be in Ontario for a month so do go see it. You won't want to miss it for the world. It is an awesome musical with even better music.

Beautifying my Life

2008-04-16T15:39:00.002-04:00

I can't begin to express my overwhelming desire for this painting. When I saw it in a Random Framing/Art Store back in 2002-2003. I was taken so aback because it's just so unbelievably gorgeous. I love this painting!

I love that Christ is portrayed with a smile in this painting by Liz Lemon Swindle. He's having such a good time with the kids who are pictured in this photo. I have come to appreciate many depictions of the Savior but this one is awesome. I was in a friends home recently and she had this print framed in her front hall. It's so fantastic!

Things I've Found Today that have been great :)

2008-04-14T12:35:00.002-04:00

I don't know if people have seen this video or not but it is awesome.It has pictures from the Life of Christ and it's put to Come Thou Fount it's very very good and very very well done. I like this version of Come Thou Fount.

I was also browsing the Time Out For Women board and found this blog posted about who we LDS people are Just for the Record

so that's it for the moment.

"I'm Pretty Sure Girls are Smarter Than Boys Because They Picked Us To Marry!"

2008-04-12T15:05:00.002-04:00

Well I can't think of a better way to begin this blogging session without the 'QUOTE OF THE WEEK' It came from the principal at the one school I work at and he was talking to the kids on the Chess Team. I was like seriously, the greatest quote of the week!

I have been thinking a lot about my last post and sure I was a little hurt and maybe a little bitter I think I've just got to learn to get past it and forget about it. I've come to realize that I don't want to have any regrets and I don't regret what I wrote but It disappoints me that I felt that I SHOULD write it. Sure I value their friendship maybe a little more than others consider it but if they don't want to have me out and hang out with them that's perfectly fine. I can definitely think of other things to do from now on when things are happening. I can find a zillion things to do whether it be to go visit other people who want to hang out with me or find time to expand myself and get a better understanding of who I am.

The funniest part of all this is I can definitely think of other people to hang out with. I'm finding the more and more I'm out and working the more I'm talking to them and in the near future inviting them out to something awesome! Whatever it might be.

Anyway, this weekend should be exciting all the same. Elder Earl C. Tingey is Speaking at a fireside tonight and I think he's a pretty amazing speaker. I really value the last CES fireside broadcast that he spoke about The Simple Truths from Heaven - The Lords Pattern
Even if he talked about marriage there are a lot of things that he said in it that RING TRUE!

I can't think of anything else to write about right now. I'm just finding that slowly I'm coming out of being who I have been for so long that it feels nice that I care more about myself and what I can offer than judging the things that are beyond my control.

I can't think of anything else to say!

check this video out

2008-04-09T16:26:00.001-04:00

An Awareness Test

I Still Can't Get Over it.. I'm sorry Pluto You Just didn't make the Cut.

2008-04-09T14:43:00.002-04:00

in 1930, Clyde Tombaugh discovered a ninth planet. An 11 year old named Venetia Burney named it Pluto, after the Roman god of the Underworld, because it was dark and mysterious. In 2006, the International Astronomical Union voted to demote Pluto from planet to dwarf-planet status. The scientists decided Pluto was not big enough, not round enough, and too close to Neptune. Turns out Pluto had a lot of fans, and they were quite upset when their favourite planet got downgraded.

I know this isn't New News but I was a fan of Pluto. Sorry Pluto. Looks Like I won't be adventuring to outer space to see what you look like anytime soon.

Amid the Thing We Like to Call The Weekend, Sorry If This Appears Like I'm Venting!

2008-03-31T09:51:00.005-04:00

So I have about 20 minutes to blog my heart out before I indeed "START" working, it sometimes takes me awhile to get started. And since today is monday I have to try to start working twice as hard because it usually takes me longer to get to work.

So This weekend was alright, I didn't do a heck of a lot since I really didn't want to do anything or go anywhere, I did however, want to go out either friday or saturday it really didn't matter to me however, that entire plan was kiboshed for several factors! It would have been nice to get to hang out with a friend of mine who is leaving for the SUMMER SEMESTER and possibly into FALL SEMESTER @ BYU!

1. I wasn't officially invited
2. I accidently found out something was going on

Here's the little back story.

in October there was a YSA conference in Boston (a general authority was speaking, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, I believe) I pretty much did all the leg work, finding out about it (I emailed one of the CES Directors in boston), got the registration form, emailed everyone the registration form, etc. The only hitch in my plan was being able to get a ride to and from boston with Just money to pay for pretty much the registration @ the conference and that was it! This was at least a month and a half before the conference.

Yes I could have driven to the conference (ALL BY MYSELF!) however, at the time of the conference the Car that I would be driving was at least 20 years old and i didn't think that my little car would make it. (It wouldn't have at all, but that's another story for another day)

So as the conference got closer there was more and more excitement about the conference and I was getting ready to register, find a ride, etc. So I had been talking to SEVERAL of the GIRLS who I thought were REALLY CLOSE FRIENDS! So that they knew that I needed a ride, etc.

So about 3 weeks before the conference we were talking about it in RS and I raised my hand and said, I'd be more than happy to go with anyone If any of you could give me a ride that would be wonderful. I waited for a minute or two and NO ONE SAID ANYTHING!! and then one girl piped up and said "YOU CAN FLY WITH ME YOU JUST GOTTA BUY A TICKET!" which 1) is really dumb because she knew for a fact that I couldn't afford it!

So, needless to say I was left out of going to the conference and wasn't even thought of when arranging rides even though I asked these REALLY CLOSE GIRL FRIENDS! (several of the girls who were in a car with these REALLY CLOSE FRIENDS did not end up having a GOOD TRIP, because several of these other girls are VERY SELF ABSORBED and CONTROLLING!!!)

So this weekend I found out about a social gathering goodbye party of sorts that was going on Saturday night for a friend that I've had for a long time. The unfortunate thing was I found out about the whole thing over the lovely CLOSE FRIEND writing a message on another CLOSE FRIENDS wall that this social gathering was happening.

I know I'm a little bitter I understand that but said close friend should stop being so self absorbed and realize that she is not this girls only friend! It just hurts a little bit more as well because said girl (the inviter) is the Relief Society President!

So I really don't know what to do I have so much love an respect for the people in my branch that to be left out of things and not invited to things sucks especially when I WANT TO SPEND TIME WITH THESE PEOPLE! I don't want to sit at home every weekend and "do nothing" Yes I do live in the boonies, BUT I have a car and am MORE THAN WILLING TO DRIVE to hang out with YOU!

Toes, More Idol Thoughts, Teachers/Educational Assistants/Bullying Teacher, and Other Thoughts

2008-03-26T14:41:00.006-04:00

So Apparently I did something today and my large toe on my left foot is now probably bruised beyond measure.. and it hurts like no tomorrow

Apparenlty someone thinks that LDS people are better at singing than anyone else here. It's a good article but, I think may people will stick to the theory that we can sing and dance. We are Multi-Talented sometimes.

So There are currently two people who I do not enjoy at my job mainly because they either think they know everything or ask the dumbest questions.

For example the door to both libraries lead out into the hallways which is no big deal when the door is open and no one is in the hallway, however, I have learned to close the door when it gets super noisy in the hallway. I also close my door if it is warmer than it is in the hallway or cooler than it is in the hallway so that I can maintain the temperature of the library so either way it's open because i say "Welcome" or "Closed, But You Can Come In!" I just either want to keep the noise at a minimum or the temperature at a good temperature. So yesterday the school's boilers didn't work at all which made the school "ICE COLD" so when it did kick back in I wanted to retain what LITTLE heat I had left and this Bullying Teacher (Who doesn't bully, but teaches about bullying) came in and said "Why Is The Door Closed" I replied "Because It's warmer in here than in the Hallway" and she basically looked at me like I was crazy!

I have another story about an EA here at this other school but I'll leave it for another day.

So Things I am Looking Forward to

1. TOFW (Time Out for Women) approx 67 days until then, still looking into hotel room, should do it soon!

2. I Get Paid Tomorrow (YAY!) it's not a big pay but it will go towards some wonderful things including helping Dad and buying gas for my car!

3. Juno - 21 Days Until DVD comes out!

4. Still Reading A Perfect Gentle Knight - Kit Pearson (All Sorts of Love for this Book)

5. (a hard days night, pride and prejudice (BBC Version), Breaking Dawn, Sisterhood of the travelling pants - paperbacks!, new camera) - list of things to purchase

6. I want to dress up my blog a bit but don't really know how, and I do want to take new pics.. but I don't know when, I'll have to figure that out!

7. The School Day is Almost Over - 3 minutes left.

8. I put all the books that have been catalogued on the "New Book Rack" today! GO ME!

9. I found 33 books that I will shortly be cataloguing via AMICUS (also known as the cataloguing lifesaver) so I don't have to do all the cataloguing myself!

that's it for now. how is everyone else!?!?

And If the Beef Didn't Walk All The Way to Toronto...

2008-03-20T13:39:00.006-04:00

So a cattle truck tipped over this morning on one of the major highways to Toronto and caused utter chaos this morning for those on their way to work. Some news stories can be found here. The Results of the Cattle Crawl can also be found there. They rescued three cows and shot the forth because it was charging at people. Which In regards to animal cruelty in is sad but what else are you supposed to do when a cow is charging after you besides RUN! apparently they just didn't get to the tranquillizer gun in time and ended up shooting him.

Thank You, American Idol!

Well, I was driving to work this morning and I normally have my radio off because I like to think about things and not every day of the week but maybe three out of the five days of the business week or I have my MP3 Player plugged in and I'm listening to that.

So I'm listening to the radio station that I normally listen to on my way to work and this guy goes on about how he was reading someone's bio who was probably one of the top 10 or 12 or whatever and he says that Jesus didn't have anything to do with him/her getting to American Idol. We shouldn't take the time to thank Jesus publicily and it's not necissary for us to thank him and pray and go to church and stuff.

I literally was like, Seriously on a Radio Station at 8 am in the morning you want to say that God shouldn't be thanked when people are starting to be successful and they have a strong faith in the Guidance from God why shouldn't they thank him!

OH here's a fun link for the day about SHOUTING IN EMAIL and how to prevent it

Other than that it's been a pretty uneventful day. I didn't want to get out of bed this morning because it was so warm and after an entire day in the school with COLD I didn't know what to expect when I got to my second school today, FORTUNATELY it's nice and not to warm so I can function so much better today.

Fortunately it's also the last day of the week since tomorrow is GOOD FRIDAY! Which Is Excellent!

I don't understand why

2008-03-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

So I was recently hired in January by the school board in my region as a library technician and I recently received an email from one of the computer technicians with the school board who told me that my H: drive was oversized so I was at the one school I work at yesterday and got rid of and deleted old files. Then I emailed the computer technician back and told her that it was taken care of and I then received an email back stating that it was at the other school.

So today when I was at the other school today and found file after file, file folder after file folder and image after image on the computer that the previous to the previous library technician had probably put on the computer.

My question to you is. if you knew you were going to be at a different school than the original school you were at the next year wouldn't you delete all the files you didn't need anymore so that the new person to the job wouldn't have to go through all the files, folders, etc. and not know what was important and not know what to delete and waste her time figuring out what to do next.

I emailed the previous to the previous library technician to see what she would have to say we'll see what happens and I'll post again with the results!

(original post accidently deleted)

Things... Of Which... Have Happened over the weekend and some thoughts

2008-03-17T22:53:00.000-04:00

So I was walking into Wal-mart Tonight and there was a booth set up for Girl Guide Cookies and of course the first thing I thought was I miss not only eating those cookies but selling those cookies. I might even consider getting some this year so that I can hold onto a little bit of some goodness that was amazing. It's unfortunate that the original maker of the cookies didn't continue making them for the Girl Guides.

Last Night

Last Night I attended a YSA fireside in Brampton and the speakers were the Former Temple President and His Wife and they spoke about how important Education Is and also Public Affairs of the Church in regards to Correcting Incorrect information as well as promoting the church in a positive light through positive things.

On December 15, 2007 Elder M. Russell Ballard (whom I have personally come in contact with in at least the past 6 months through another YSA (Young Single Adult) Fireside spoke at the Commencement at BYU-Hawaii and spoke about the fact that we can make such a huge impact on what we say and what we present online about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We can't afford to present messages that defile this church in any way or present untrue thoughts or comments because all we really want to do is present that this church does good, it helps people, it supports people, and it provides a good positive way of life. The talk can be found here.

One quote that doesn't cease to amaze me is this

"Now some of these tools -- like any tool in an unpracticed or an undisciplined hand -- can be dangerous. The Internet can be used to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and can just as easily be used to market the filth and sleaze of pornography. iTunes can be used to download uplifting and stirring music or the worst kind of anti-social lyrics, full of profanity. Social networks on the Web can be used to expand healthy friendships as easily as they can be used by predators trying to trap the unwary. That is no different from how people choose to use television or movies or even the library. Satan is always quick to exploit the negative power of new inventions, to spoil and to degrade and to neutralize any effect for good. Make sure that the choices you make in the use of new media are choices that expand your mind, increase your opportunities, and feed your soul."

Now with all this said, The Temple President's wife showed us a brief clip from the website about where do we come from and spoke with us about the fact that even if the church look my look difficult to access on the outside it doesn't hurt to ask someone, phone someone up to clarify something that has transpired, ask if something is available because from that doors will open and opportunities will arrive in any situation religious or not.

Now With that being said, I don't want you to think that I'll shove my religion down your throats I just want you to know that I am normal and I like watching movies, writing in my blog, good music, watching Heroes, Pushing Daisies, Gilmore Girls, and having friends. But I do not mind answering any questions. I don't have all the answers but I'm willing to at least give it a shot and try and find an answer or even ask someone else to help me find the answer. I do want you to know that I will not judge your questions and it's my hope that you judge me in return.

We are all different and we all have the opportunity to share what we have to offer. This post is in reference to that I'm sharing a part of myself that not only should be shared but this experience can provide you with insight to a great Sunday I had :)

family, pies, and friends

2008-03-15T23:16:00.000-04:00

tres busy day, I got to see my grandma today and that was great :)

she looks so much better than even the last time I saw her.

got to hang out with some pretty darn amazing people last night and it was fun
we made pies (which I clearly suck at but hey what can you do) I don't know how
to use a rolling pin!

and the we had a good dinner (of which i ended up having a tooth ache and didn't want to eat anymore.

but then i had ice cream and some how it always makes me feel better!

and now I've got a little bit of work left for my mom and then I can head home and go to bed
which I am so looking forward too!

oh and finishing oceans 13! I could have sworn that I had oceans 12 on vhs somewhere but i've got to get oceans 12 and 11 on dvd!!

that's it for now!

Moving?? - Or am I testing the waters..

2008-03-14T19:20:00.000-04:00

cross posted at laurelqueen.livejournal.com

I'm trying to write more often, we'll see how that goes.

well after all that For Good Musing I went shopping, yay.

but after how much money I spent on little things Whoa. Won't do that again for awhile.

but I probably will, not the next pay cheque because it won't be very much because of the March Break and I don't know how much I'll get paid for the break!

Anyway, I got a new journal and it's Tres snazzy makes me feel important to write into it. I'm going to try writing daily in it to and see what happens. I always seem to forget about it and go back months later and go.. man.. why didn't i keep writing in it.

anyway, I've got to kick my Addiction to Cadbury Mini-Eggs. Now that they're around almost 365 days a year. Holy Crap. I don't know how many I've eaten but they're getting eaten, I will probably buy one more back before easter alone. and I've eaten a lot of bags.

anyway, i'm happy with some of the things I've purchased last night i got some new movies "thank you blockbuster for buy 2 movies get one free! I got Night @ The Museum (Which I Love), Oceans 13 which i haven't seen yet, so excited to watch it! And Sidney White. So Very Cute, Little Plot but it followed the Snow White Fairy Tale Very Very Well.

one recent purchase that I made through one of blockbusters sales was The Heartbreak Kid. Tres Heartbreaking. I love Ben Stiller but who ever thought of this movie should be taken out behind a tree and beaten with a stick. IT was AWFUL. THE Language & "SEX" scenes were HORRIBLE!!

and I want to take it back to blockbuster but there is nothing wrong with the DvD! Grr.. Stupid Blockbuster for not taking back a movie that I want to trade it in for something better!!!!

Anyway, My Friend KOS (taking the name out to protect her identity) and I are going to have an OFFICE party when The OFFICE returns in April. We were thinking about doing it online like on the episode "The Launch Party" that would be awesome!!! so one of us can flip out like Michael and one of us can be Dwight.. oh man..

I was on my way to do stuff last night and I was driving down the "HILL" aka the Escarpment when Four Deer decided to cross the road! Holy Cow, it freaked me out for a moment but then I was like, that has only ever happened one other time to me. I need to take a breath and watch! SO VERY COOL!

So. that's my story for today and I'm sticking to it.

By the way.. UnPlowed Roads in Sub-divisions NOT FUN @ ALL! I hate to think that I'm wreaking my car!