Marathon Completed

Last night I was privileged to sit in on another ward's Young Women group who were spending two full days of their Christmas vacation together reading the Book of Mormon cover to cover. They had readers scheduled to come in to read aloud for thirty minutes each so the girls could follow along. I read my section at 7:30 last night.

The portion I read was the last chapters of 3rd Nephi, the book of 4th Nephi and the beginning of Mormon. As I read I was struck with the thought that God really does fulfill His promises. He remembers His covenants with His people. I felt the Spirit in that room reaffirming to me this book was true and the lessons in it were for us and our time.

I hope the girls who participated felt that as well. I know that after that much reading your mind can get a little mushy and you start to get a little punchy. And that happened too, but the Spirit was still there and these girls had been soaking in it for two days. That has to have some kind of influence on them.

That book has a power that, if you have read it, you cannot deny.

On Christmas day a pair of Jehovah's Witnesses came to my door again. One of the ladies has stopped by several times and always visits with me about some sense of destruction and the end of the earth, and she seems to be trying to teach that God will be the only solution to these crises.

While I believe God will ultimately have his hand in the final hours of the earth's degeneration, I also know that the Gospel, as I understand it, is the hope that we can look to in order to not be obsessed with that gloom and doom mentality. The Gospel, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, is one of hope and optimism and joy. Sure, troubles come and bad things can happen but the Lord is with His children and He will bless us too.

As this lady and her friend tried to teach me of the earth's destruction, on Christmas day no less, I testified to her that the end was not all to be feared. That Christ is the Redeemer and He has provided a way for us. I read to her the Lord's words to the Nephites the night before his birth in Bethlehem. I told her that this book was my gift to her and that I considered its teaching treasures given to me by a loving Heavenly Father. It was a companion to the prophesies of the Old Testament that she has readily shared with me, and another witness of the teaching given in the New Testament, where Jesus lived and taught and died and was resurrected.

She wouldn't take the copy of the Book of Mormon I offered her. Her explanation was that if she took it, she would not be believing what she already knew. I told her that was right. She would know so much more. I told her that we believe many things that are very similar. We know there is a God who is in control of the world. We know He gave the world prophets in the olden times. And that as a true and living God those prophesies will come to pass. All I was giving her was an extension of understanding to what she already had. She still wouldn't take the copy I offered her.

There is power in this book and she recognized that, in some way. I hope the Young Women in the 6th ward who participated in their Book of Mormon Readathon will recognize that power too and with any luck, that power will sink deep into their hearts and be the foundation of a stronger and deeper testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ and His gospel on the earth today.

Snow Schmow

Genius Golfer took my Durango to work today. He also took The Boy to the Park City Resort for more time on the slopes. This leaves me at home with more laundry and the Honda Hockey Puck for transportation. Sounds like a good day for a movie marathon.

The Girl is headed to a YW activity--they are going ice skating today. But luckily she had a friend who is collecting her and taking her to the meeting point. Thus, I needn't go outside for anything today.

If and when it stopped falling out of the sky I guess I will have to snow blow the driveway and sidewalks but that won't be until this afternoon. So, the forecast is bringing snow? Sure. Bring it on. I have plenty of entertainment to keep me busy today, and almost no responsibilities to make me go out in it.

Cooking Skills and In-Laws

Last night we had a throw together dinner, as the Boy had a Scout Court of Honor--he earned his Star rank last night, by the way. Anyway, Genius Golfer took over the dinner at the half way point. The conversation turned to my not really having many cooking skills, and that I was OK with that. I told The Boy that someday he will marry some darling girl and he will be so impressed with her cooking skills because I "purposely" set the bar so low. Someday she would thank me for being such a mediocre cook. And I continued the story, telling the kids that I didn't have that option. Grandmama is a great cook as is Auntie Lori and Genius Golfer probably expected more from me in that department when we married. It has been almost 18 years of disappointment for him.

The Boy's only comment? "I'm going to get married?! Yeah, that will never happen."

Winter

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
Whose woods these are I think I know.
His house is in the village, though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.

He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.


Either way...I'm ready for some spring fever.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Santa along with Genius Golfer got me an upgraded computer, so this weekend will be spent transferring all the info from the old one to the new computer and massive new external hard drive. I am amazed at the amount of stuff that can be accumulated on one's computer when you really don't pay that close attention.

Just on one segment of the old hard drive I have over 32K photos...that isn't the size of the files, but the number of photos. Obsessive compulsive...you say? Yes, I believe I am.

However, as I sat yesterday taking more photos of my family enjoying Christmas presents and giving and receiving...I took dozens more. I doubt the time will ever come that I regret having so many photos.

I shared that OCD behavior by making a few nature calendars using my pictures. We received two collage frames of photos from my mom of the kids throughout the years. I used my photos to make Christmas cards this year for friends and family.

No, no regrets about the number of photos I take. I may rethink that as it is taking a L-O-N-G time to transfer everything. Upgrades, though, not regrets.

Promise Fulfilled

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas, one and all.

Promise Given

Christmas Eve for the Nephites...

9 Now it came to pass that there was a day set apart by the unbelievers, that all those who believed in those traditions should be put to death except the sign should come to pass, which had been given by Samuel the prophet.
10 Now it came to pass that when Nephi, the son of Nephi, saw this wickedness of his people, his heart was exceedingly sorrowful.
11 And it came to pass that he went out and bowed himself down upon the earth, and cried mightily to his God in behalf of his people, yea, those who were about to be destroyed because of their faith in the tradition of their fathers.
12 And it came to pass that he cried mightily unto the Lord all that day; and behold, the voice of the Lord came unto him, saying:
13 Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.
14 Behold, I come unto my own, to fulfil all things which I have made known unto the children of men from the foundation of the world, and to do the will, both of the Father and of the Son—of the Father because of me, and of the Son because of my flesh. And behold, the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given.

Why I Don't Ski

I was sent this by a good friend in an email this week. It cracked me up. With The Boy loving his snowboarding life, and Genius Golfer a ski fan as well, people have asked me why I don't join them on the slopes. Well, this story answers that questions in spades. Enjoy!


Even if you aren't a skier, you'll be able to appreciate the humor
of the slopes as written by a New Orleans paper:

A friend just got back from a holiday skiing trip to Utah with the
kind of story that warms the cockles of any body's heart.

Conditions were perfect...12 below, no feeling in the toes, basic numbness all over...the "Tell me when we're having fun" kind of day. One of the women in the group complained to her husband that she was in dire need of a rest room. He told her not to worry, that he was sure there was relief waiting at the top of the lift in the form of a powder room for female skiers in distress. He was wrong, of course, and the pain did not go away. If you've ever had nature hit its panic button in you, then you know that a temperature of 12 below doesn't help matters. With time running out, the woman weighed her options. Her husband, picking up on the intensity of the pain, suggested that since she was wearing an all-white ski outfit, she should go off in the woods and no one would even notice. He assured her, "The white will provide more than adequate camouflage."

So she headed for the tree line, began lowering her ski pants and proceeded to do her thing. If you've ever parked on the side of a slope, then you know there is a right way and wrong way to set your skis so you don't move.

Yup, you got it!!! She had them positioned the wrong way. Steep slopes are not forgiving...even during the most embarrassing moments. Without warning, the woman found herself skiing backward, out-of-control, racing through the trees...somehow missing all of them and onto another slope. Her derriere and the reverse side were still bare, her pants down around her knees, and she was picking up speed all the while.

She continued backwards, totally out-of-control, creating an unusual vista for the other skiers. The woman skied back under the lift and finally collided violently with a pylon.

The bad news was that she broke her arm and was unable to pull up her ski pants. At long last her husband arrived, putting an end to her nudie show, then summoned the ski patrol. They transported her to a hospital.

While in the emergency room, a man with an obviously broken leg was put in the bed next to hers. "So, how'd you break your leg?" she asked, making small talk. "It was the stupidest thing you ever saw," he said. "I was riding up this ski lift and suddenly, I couldn't believe my eyes! There was this crazy woman skiing backward, out-of-control, down the mountain, with her bare bottom hanging out of her pants. I leaned over to get a better look and fell out of the lift."

"So, how'd you break your arm?"

No Escape

It's the "most wonderful time of the year" to be sure, but the treats that seem to come out of the woodwork are what makes it so good! What is it with Christmas that makes me think I need to bake for days and days; make fudge and Canadian Squares? Sure we give a lot to friends and neighbors, but I seem to put away a lot more than I know I should.

But it is soooooo yummy. And it's only once a year, or so I tell myself. Happy Snacking, friends.

The Time Is Short, Really

Today is the 21st of December, you know what that means?

That means that the shortest day of the year is today. That is right, winter solstice, is today. That means that today will have the shortest amount of daylight all year long. That also means that beginning tomorrow the days will begin to get longer, until my favorite time of year--the third week of June--when the daylight is the longest all year.

This is like the turning point of winter for me. Remind me that I said this when it gets to mid February and I think I am going to go postal due to the winter doldrums, but I think I can do this winter thing this year.

Nah, don't quote me on that.

Video Sunday: Merry Christmas!

Don't Do This To Your Pets

No good pet lover ought to do this to their pet friends. Poor cat.

Christmas Cinema

Seeing as we are running down the final week of the Christmas gauntlet, I wanted to talk for a bit about the cinema of Christmas. Now I am not Siskel or Ebert, and I know I have a skewed sense of humor when it comes to film--just ask my mom who still, two decades later, doesn't see the humor I do in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, but I digress.

I think the holiday movies fall into a couple of categories: Family Fare and For Kids Only. You know the difference. One you can all sit down with grandparents and the kiddies and chuckle a bit and feel all warm and fuzzy, and the other you have to leave the room to the munchkins alone and find a big pile of treats from the neighbors to try to drown out the insipid music that won't leave your mind until Easter.

Now I realize that for a time I was a kiddie and some of the For Kids Only batch still holds a little piece of my heart, but once a year is all it takes for those songs to become lodged in my head until spring breaks.

Which Christmas movies are you talking about? you may be asking. Well, I'll tell you.

One that I loved as a child and still have a little love for is The Year with a Santa Claus. The story itself if pretty lame but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Heat Miser. I think I am his long lost cousin, in fact. Come on, you can sing it with me..."I'm Mister Heat Miser, I'm Mister Sun....I'm Mister Green Christmas, I'm Mister 101. Friends call me heat miser, whatever I touch, starts to melt in my clutch...I'm too much!"



The other song that sticks in my head is from a show I can't put my finger on this moment, but the song says, "Put one foot in front of the other...and soon you'll be walking out the doo--oo--oor!" I believe it is a Rudolph story. But it is another Rakin Bass stop motion animation production from about the early 70s.

See? You can't stop singing the songs either, can you?

As far as the Family Fare films at Christmas time, I don't think you can get any better than A Christmas Story. You know, Ralphie's quest for the red-rider BB gun and his mom's ultimate denial telling him he'll "shoot his eye out". Too many classic moments to share, but you know when you've met another aficionado when lines can be quoted across the Christmas dinner table. I love that one.



In the past month, however, I was reminded of the fabulous portrayal of Scrooge from George C. Scott. What a masterpiece of Dickens that version of A Christmas Carol is. Fro several weeks now I have watched that with Dear Friend Tammy. Mr. Scott is fantastic and the story is so profound. Though, on a side note, the Muppet's version with musical stylings is pretty cute too.

Genius Golfer's favorite is, certainly, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. How would it not be, as I have to stop myself from calling him Clark or Sparky this time of year?! 'Griswolding' is code for putting up his Christmas light show.



For the purist in your family, have you seen The Nativity? Pretty well done, all things considered. We saw this a few years back in the theater with my extended family. It was sweet and a good reminder to keep the season in perspective.

What about you? Does your family have some "must watch" shows this time of year? Naughty or nice, there is something out there for everyone. So put your fuzzy slippers on, throw back some 'nog and snuggle down for a nice long movie weekend.

One Week Left

I made the mistake to go running this morning. Thinking, "Well, it is above freezing today, I should run this morning." Boy was I wrong. However, the exercise did feel good, except the breathing part. And I do a lot of breathing when I am running, so that felt more like the fires of hell expanding in my chest. Odd how really cold air could be so burning when it gets pulled in through your nose, isn't it?!

But, the point of me telling you I was running this morning, while I was running/jogging/burning my lungs with the fires of hell, was that I started thinking that there was really only one more week until Christmas. Not that I am counting down for Santa this year. I am not sure he is stopping by our place--we are surely going smaller this go around. But I thought I think this is the first year I will miss Christmas time.

Usually Christmas makes me feel like a big Bah, Humbug! But this year, I planned way ahead. I shopped deals and made many more gifts. I baked a lot and listened to a lot of Christmas music. I have avoided most shopping situations and centers. I visited the post office to mail Christmas packages before Thanksgiving this year. And this is the first year, in a long time, I really feel glad about the whole seasonal feeling.

I think I will miss it. But let's give it one more week to be good and sure.

Note for the Grandparents Who Lurk Here

Just a little note for the grandparents who lurk about on the blog. The Girl swam the 100 yard butterfly tonight in the high school swim meet and WON the event! It is not her normal stroke, though she does it well. She also swam the breaststroke, which is her favorite (in a tie with the distance freestyle) and she dropped a second in her time in that one too. Then she swam the medley relay and the 400 yard freestyle relay. The 400 relay won by 25 yards! That is crazy...remember she is a freshman!

Can't wait to see what a few more years of coaching, practice and experience do for her swim times. Yes, I am pretty proud of her tonight.

Memory of Christmas Past

Did your pets go a little crazy at Christmas time? This picture made me smile and remember one of our cats we had as I grew up. He was a tabby that we adopted from the animal shelter and who came with the name of Jennifer, even though he was male. We called him Big C because he was the chunkiest cat we had. He had a great personality and even let my sister and I dress him up in baby clothes and drive him around as he slept in the basket of our bike.

When the Christmas tree got set up and decorated, he's always end up nosing around on the lower branches of the tree. One year we had tinsel on the tree and I vividly recall watching that cat slurp up a piece of tinsel or two as if it were spaghetti. That can't feel, sound or taste good. Little sliver of aluminum foil tinsel on those big cat teeth? Gross.

The only thing worse was walking outside a day or two later and coming across a little pile of silvery cat poo. Even grosser. There is a holiday memory for you!

Poem #8

The Boy recently had a poetry unit in his English class. They had to write their own poetry after learning about the forms and purposes of poetry. I am sure they read famous poems as well, but there is no evidence that there was any modeling from the following creation in his poetry notebook he brought home:


Poem # 8 by The Boy

Sitting at home doing nothing. playing with friend latter that day. walking walking hearing cars go scrich coming to a stop. walking inside tap tap the sound of my footsteps. Going to my room walking in and seeing a dead littel crab lying lifeless as cold as snow out of its shell as I loved him as I loved him. one dead littel crab. lifeless his heart stopped as if the world froze time stopped not one tick tick motionless.


original spelling and punctuation preserved....oh, my.

A Baby Changes Everything

I might be last person on earth who has heard this song this Christmas season, but I just did and I just love it. Faith Hill has some pipes and is gorgeous to boot, but the message of this song completely resonated with me today. I hope it does for you too. Merry Christmas, my friends.

Baking Elves

This is what I looked like all day. We were busy little baking elves...The girl helped me as the boys were on the slopes. More details later, but this is not the time of year to ask TOO many questions!

Two Week Reminder

With the Big Day only two weeks away, I thought I'd share a lovely email I got from a friend this week. While you may be stressing out trying to get it all done before Christmas Eve, take a minute and see if this doesn't help put this month's activities into perspective for you too.


Letter from Jesus about Christmas --

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15:1-8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up.... It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5 Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary--especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember:


I LOVE YOU,

JESUS

Mistakes

Ever wonder what it must be like to be a Santa this time of year? I do. I wonder if they hear stuff that PTA moms and parent helpers hear when we are in the classrooms, or Sunday school teachers get wind of each Sunday. Kids volunteer some amazing, otherwise embarrassing information at times. I am sure Santa is not immune from hearing some of those things

At the same time, Santa's lap can be a pretty fervent point of self reflection for the truly honest child. I loved this comic from the local paper this weekend. Zoe is a mischievous little girl, so it makes me smile to see her have reason to pause as she talks to the Man in Red.

Luckily, when we have mistakes that were made, and we all have them, there is always hope for redemption. That is the beauty of the Savior's atonement. That is the reason for the joy and celebration as we commemorate the birthday of Jesus Christ. I am grateful to know that second chances are always available as I turn to Him, who offers forgiveness of my mistakes as I humble myself to His will.

Global WHAT, Again?

I would like to formally request about a week of mid-July weather right about now. This zero degree plus wind chill on top of 6 inches of snow is not even for the birds. They are smart enough to fly to St. George or Guatemala for the winter. I should have gone with them.

What really kills me in this wintery week is that I have California friends who are complaining because it was 50-something degrees yesterday. You've all gone soft in the granola, fruit 'n nuts, seaside paradise you call home. Puh-leese. I don't want to hear any of your whining. I am a California girl at heart, but I have had to toughen up to deal with the high basin winters.

Too bad those international dolts meeting this week in Copenhagen to discuss Global Warming didn't hold their meeting in Salt Lake City instead. They could have enjoyed some great skiing while they avoided their meeting, for obvious reasons.

Take It Easy

Last night was the tree setting-up activity for our family. For seventeen holiday seasons I have collected and amassed ornaments and decorations for our tree. Each year, thus far, the kids have also selected an ornament that represents what they were into that year--with the hopes that someday they will have a little collection of their own to begin their adult lives with for their own tree.

In the process of putting things up last night, The Boy insisted on these bright blue LED lights--which are very pretty, I agree--but they are icicle lights. You know. The kind that hang three or four little lights from the eave of your house, or in a windy place might end up with three or four little lights in your rain gutter. These even have white, very bright white, cord and wires. There is no gentle or subtle blending in here. They are shockingly white wired, bright blue LED icicle lights on my tree.

Then, The Girl insisted that we only use the store bought annual collectible ornaments this year. The quantity while they are still loaded in the crate looks like we have tons of these ornaments, but when they shed their protective boxes and wrappings there are 12 for The boy, 14 for The Girl and Genius Golfer and I each have 17. 12 plus 14 plus 34...so...60 total ornaments. Our fakey tree us large enough for easily three times that many. It looks pretty naked, but for those white lights draped all over it.

Finally, the decision to put the tree in the basement family room was made the democratic way--by a majority vote. Two short people voted for it to go there because they wanted to sit on the couches when they open presents. One guy abstained and I was out numbered. Now the front room is still decorated, but I love driving into the garage and seeing the Christmas tree in the bay window of the front room. Very presentational, and much more formal. I even suggested we could bring the couches upstairs on Christmas day. Still outvoted.

I realize all of this makes no difference as to why we celebrate. And the reality of our tree location and decor is not a major factor in our celebration of the Savior's birth. But these kids sure seem to have strong opinions and no hesitancy in expressing them about family traditions they see as wrong.

What is a mom to do? Give in and take it easy, I was told. I'm working on that.

It's All in How You Look at It

I found out a dear friend was just called to be a counselor in her Stake Young Women. One of her friends called that a "country club calling". I think, after serving in the same position for a while now, that that is a good description. It really is the best calling I have had, and I'm lucky to serve here.

We had a few inches in snow on the ground this morning when I got up. It is only 19 degrees as I type, Genius Golfer took my four wheeled drive for his commute today leaving me with the little Honda, and I have boxes of Christmas in my front room just waiting for some attention. But I don't really have to be anywhere today. I can turn on the Christmas music and clean my house, do laundry and put up the Christmas decorations. I am lucky to have that kind of option.

I spend a good portion of the afternoon yesterday making some delicious holiday treats for GG to take with him to work to share with his colleagues. When I came downstairs this morning, I realized he forgot to take them with him today. I think we might have Family Home Evening treats already done. What luck!

I have a quote I wrote down following an episode of Everybody loves Raymond, which is on in syndication almost every night somewhere, like Friends, or Seinfeld. It comes from Ray's curmudgeon of a father, Frank. He said "Luck is the residue of good planning." I like that sentiment, but in the three examples above, I think I was, really, just lucky. Some planning went into those, but mostly coincidences worked to my favor.

May you find the residue of good planning, or just serendipitous coincidences today too.

Gift Selection Help is Here

In the event that you are stumped with the idea of what to get that special man in your life, I found this amazing product and want to share this brilliant idea with all of you. I hope this helps with the manly Christmas wishlists in your house.

Not Quite Pemberley

Last night we went to Genius Golfer's work party. It was held in the home of the venture capitalist who originally funded this company. While the man, we'll call him RD, doesn't present himself as an overtly-wealthy man, the house definitely did.

What I realized yesterday was that no matter who I am with or what I happen to wear I never feel comfortable in a shee-shee-poo-poo place. I am uncomfortable with people with that kind of money. The house was enormous--indoor racquetball court and your own arcade room kind of enormous. It made me uncomfortable all the way around.

That makes me a little more like Elizabeth Bennett then, doesn't it? I am prejudiced against the rich. I suppose there is worse company to be in than Miss Elizabeth's, however, having only met RD for a bit last night, I cannot yet draw personal comparisons to a Mr. Fitswilliam Darcy. But he did seem nice enough. And not at all prideful about his near-Pemberly mansion.

Another fault to put down on my list of things to overcome in mortality, I suppose.

Company Business

A darling friend sent this little email joke to me and I absolutely love it. What is this world coming to? Well, here is a vivid display of intolerance and political correctness that pushes poor HR director, Patty Lewis, over the edge. I can see why companies are canceling Christmas time parties left and right. And it isn't just about the economy. Enjoy, and I unapologetically wish a Merry Christmas to you!

Company Memo

FROM: Patty Lewis, Human Resources Director
TO: All Employees
DATE: October 1, 2009
RE: Gala Christmas Party

I'm happy to inform you that the company Christmas Party will take place on December 23rd, starting at noon in the private function room at the Grill House. There will be a cash bar and plenty of drinks! We'll have a small band playing traditional carols... feel free to sing along. And don't be surprised if our CEO shows up dressed as Santa Claus! A Christmas tree will be lit at 1:00 PM. Exchanges of gifts among employees can be done at that time; however, no gift should be over $10.00 to make the giving of gifts easy for everyone's pockets. This gathering is only for employees!
Our CEO will make a special announcement at that time!
Merry Christmas to you and your family,
Patty

Company Memo

FROM: Patty Lewis, Human Resources Director
TO: All Employees
DATE: October 2, 2009
RE: Gala Holiday Party

In no way was yesterday's memo intended to exclude our Jewish employees. We recognize that Hanukkah is an important holiday, which often coincides with Christmas, though unfortunately not this year. However, from now on, we're calling it our "Holiday Party." The same policy applies to any other employees who are not Christians and to those still celebrating Reconciliation Day. There will be no Christmas tree and no Christmas carols will be sung. We will have other types of music for your enjoyment.
Happy now?
Happy Holidays to you and your family,
Patty


Company Memo

FROM: Patty Lewis, Human Resources Director
TO: All Employees
DATE: October 3, 2009
RE: Holiday Party

Regarding the note I received from a member of Alcoholics Anonymous requesting a non-drinking table, you didn't sign your name. I'm happy to accommodate this request, but if I put a sign on a table that reads, "AA Only", you wouldn't be anonymous anymore. How am I supposed to handle this?
Somebody?
And sorry, but forget about the gift exchange, no gifts are allowed since the union members feel that $10.00 is too much money and the executives believe $10.00 is a little chintzy.
REMEMBER: NO GIFTS EXCHANGE WILL BE ALLOWED.


Company Memo

FROM: Patty Lewis, Human Resources Director
To: All Employees
DATE: October 4, 2009
RE: Generic Holiday Party

What a diverse group we are! I had no idea that December 20th begins the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which forbids eating and drinking during daylight hours. There goes the party! Seriously, we can appreciate how a luncheon at this time of year does not accommodate our Muslim employees' beliefs.. Perhaps the Grill House can hold off on serving your meal until the end of the party or else package everything for you to take it home in little foil doggy baggy. Will that work?
Meanwhile, I've arranged for members of Weight Watchers to sit farthest from the dessert buffet, and pregnant women will get the table closest to the restrooms.
Gays are allowed to sit with each other. Lesbians do not have to sit with Gay men, each group will have their own table.
Yes, there will be flower arrangement for the Gay men's table.
To the person asking permission to cross dress, the Grill House asks that no cross-dressing be allowed, apparently because of concerns about confusion in the restrooms. Sorry.
We will have booster seats for short people.
Low-fat food will be available for those on a diet.
I am sorry to report that we cannot control the amount of salt used in the food. The Grill House suggests that people with high blood pressure taste a bite first.
There will be fresh "low sugar" fruits as dessert for diabetics, but the restaurant cannot supply "no sugar" desserts. Sorry!

Did I miss anything?!?!?
Patty


Company Memo

FROM: Patty Lewis, Human Resources Director
TO: All F*%^ing Employees
DATE: October 5, 2009
RE: The F*%^ing Holiday Party

I've had it with you vegetarian pricks!!! We're going to keep this party at the Grill House whether you like it or not, so you can sit quietly at the table furthest from the "grill of death," as you so quaintly put it, and you'll get your f*%^ing salad bar, including organic tomatoes. But you know, tomatoes have feelings, too. They scream when you slice them. I've heard them scream. I'm hearing them scream right NOW!
The rest of you f*%^ing wierdos can kiss my *ss. I hope you all have a rotten holiday!
Drive drunk and die,
The B*tch from H*ll!!!

Company Memo

FROM: Joan Bishop, Acting Human Resources Director
DATE: October 6, 2009
RE: Patty Lewis and Holiday Party

I'm sure I speak for all of us in wishing Patty Lewis a speedy recovery and I'll continue to forward your cards to her.
In the meantime, management has decided to cancel our Holiday Party and give everyone the afternoon of the 23rd off with full pay.
Happy Holidays!
Joan

Hit the Road

We are home to the Family Light Show Extravaganza again this year. With any luck, we'll have a video of the ordeal, I mean, show very soon and I'll post it here for all of you to endure, er, witness.

I was worried that our neighbors will get together to vote us out of the Circle, but when I spoke with several they were very enthusiastic about the road being busier, their driveways being blocked and the lights flashing in their windows. Maybe they were just being polite.

What is funny is how long it seemed to take last year and the relatively short time Genius Golfer got it all back up this year. He reminded me that he had no job last year so he had time to build the arches and wire the trees and put together the radio system. I had forgotten that part.

So, if you are in the area and are looking for a free activity with the kiddos--they don't even have to leave the car--come on over. This is great for the 8 PM bedtime set...a sleepy ride in their footie pajamas to see the lights while they sit in their car seats in the warm car.

We are looking forward to entertaining you for Christmas, at least, for about nine minutes before it repeats.

Current Events

Last night, Genius Golfer asked me "What do you think of this Tiger Woods business?"

Now, you need to know the GG is not the world's biggest TW fan. He recognizes that Tiger is perhaps the world's greatest golfer, but GG tends to pull for the underdog types, and I try to exercise my influence over my hubz by cheering for Lefty (Phil Michelson) since he is well, a lefty. So, TW is admired around here but not revered.

So, in response to his question, I answered, "I think he is an idiot not to just come clean." I really think he would have been better off image wise, and conscience wise, if he admitted whatever fault he had ans asked for forgiveness--so long as it is sincere.

Like many high profile individuals there is too much media interest and tabloid curiosity to leave it alone. People will dig until the truth comes out. If they are digging for that, the individual looses the ability to own up to his/her own mistakes and then looks like he/she is covering something up. If not, why not just come clean at the first?

It is sad that people have so much interest and curiosity in the famous and infamous, and our media goes after that kind of in-depth journalism (if you can even call it that) and leaves alone the truly pertinent stories like what the legislature is up to--unless it involves a personal sexual misdeed, a la a certain SC Governor.

Have you heard anything substantive recently about the amendments to the health care bill now being debated int eh senate? I mean beyond the allegations that there are now abortion allowances being added (which is not true)? Yeah, me neither.

I wish the media and journalists generally would do the job we need them to do--be a watch dog for government and leave the cult of personality alone for a while.

OK. That was a soapbox I didn't mean to step onto today. But you can sense, I hope, my feelings here. If not, maybe the local media will pick me up on their radar and then you'll know for sure!

If You Don't Have Anything Nice to Say...

Contrary to what you might have learned by watching "Steel Magnolias," the end of that line is not 'Come Sit By Me'.

Saturday BYU beat the University of Utah in the final regular season football game of the year. It went to overtime. It was a nail biter.

Anytime the so-called "Holy War" game rolls around, it is tense, but this year was tense, plus an extra dose of nasty. It seems the entire state is in it. You either go BLUE or go RED. There is no option for purple or green or even Union Jack.

I am not sure exactly what fuels this level of intensity and, in some cases, sheer hatred, but I know it shows up every year around this time because of this game. And the levels of nastiness increases annually.

This year the game itself was completely overshadowed by Cougar QB Max Hall's comments after the game. He said the following:

"I don't like Utah. In fact, I hate them. I hate everything about them. I hate their program, their fans. I hate everything," Hall said. "It felt really good to send those guys home.

"I think the whole university and their fans and the organization is classless," Hall said. "They threw beer on my family and stuff last year and did a whole bunch of nasty things. I don't respect them and they deserved to lose."

OK, now. These are two decent teams this year. There has been bad behavior by fans for years when these two play--regardless of which stadium hosts the game. Both sides can point fingers at the other. But to SAY that to the media, after the game?!

Who is classless now?!

That was the first time I was ever embarrassed to be a BYU alumna. And that is saying something considering remarks attributed to Austin Collie a few years ago (again in terms of the Holy War game) about God stepping in when you are living correctly on and off the field and rewarding the righteous. What?! It is a FOOTBALL game, friends. I think God might be a little busy with, oh, I don't know, world hunger, suffering, or famines to worry Himself about a football game's outcome.

I am happy the Cougs won, but this will leave a bad taste in my mouth for a long time. And I am certain--even though Hall is a senior and never will have to face the U again--the Ute team will not forget him and will make BYU pay dearly next year for the out of line and totally inappropriate comments from their quarterback.

29th & 30th--The End?

29) I am grateful to have my blog back. I was locked out of it yesterday and it caused me a great deal of stress...I haven't printed this since my birthday...how can I call this my journal if I never got it printed and have no record of it and now can't even locate it?! EEEEKK! It was slightly scary yesterday. So, sorry, to anyone that was worried I had gone out Thelma and Louise style with no warning. I'd definitely warn you if it comes to that!

30) I had big plans to write something deep and meaningful here today, as it is the last of my gratitude entries, but I am just happy to be back on and have a place to write. I am grateful to share my testimony with you and not have you lash out at me for my feelings about sacred and tender things. I am grateful that I have had time to focus on the things I can grateful for in my life this month.

Not that I'll end my expressions of gratitude, but I can fill you in on some other things in my life, like earning my Young Womanhood Recognition award yesterday. (This was for the third time....) Or the annual Christmas letter which I worked on this weekend while I was ditched by my family for things monumentally more fun than mom. Or the comments I have for Max Hall, QB for the Cougars, after the team beat the U of U in overtime and he shot his mouth off against Utah--insulting the entire other half of the state. Oh, I have things to say...and I'll be grateful to get them off my chest, but you, dear readers, may wish me to go back to my mild notations of gratitude once we set off in other directions tomorrow.

28th

28) I am grateful to day for the Holy Ghost. I am thankful that I can feel His promptings and have a sensitivity to the spirit. I recognize that the Holy Ghost is available to tell me things I need to know, testify to me of truth as I hear or read or feel it and bring things to my remembrance. I am grateful for the feeling I have when I feel the Spirit. I don't even mind the weeping that comes with that feeling anymore. Lately I feel like I can weep at the drop of a hat, but I sense that it is the Spirit I feel that brings the tears. I am grateful that my spirit is receptive enough to His spirit that I can feel a difference. I am grateful that my heart is not so hardened that I am past feeling that. Each day I get a sense of the nearness of the Holy Ghost in my life, I give thanks. I am learning to discern the Spirit in my daily life, and I am grateful for the re-dos, the do-overs and the try-agains when I miss a prompting and the Lord sends me another one. I am grateful He trusts me enough to prompt me to do or say something by sending His spirit. I hope to someday be in tune with that Spirit all the day long that I might lift those around me and help them to also feel His love and His spirit in their lives.

27th

27) Today I am grateful for the knowledge I have that God lives and loves me; that I am His child and He had a plan for me. I am grateful that He sends us prophets to direct His work on the earth today and that we have lessons recorded by prophets long ago in the scriptures to teach us the things we can do to become what God wants us to become. It isn't an easy life, but it is the best chance we have to learn what matters most and how we can master ourselves by obedience to His commandments. That obedience brings us freedom as we recognize the blessings offered to us as we obey Him. His love is complete and unconditional. His promises are sure. He is our Eternal Father and he want us to choose to return to live with Him again as an eternal family.

Happy 26th!

26) I am thankful for the day to reflect on my many blessings. I am thankful for the free land I live in and the opportunity this country gives me to pursue happiness. I completely believe this land was preserved by God to be established as the home of free men and women who love and serve the Lord. It was preserved to be a place where the Gospel of Jesus Christ could be restored. It is a blessed land. It is a special land. It is my home and I am blessed to have been born a citizen of this country, and today I am so grateful for the privileges living here affords me and my family.

Happy Thanksgiving!

25th

25) Today I am grateful for all those who have come before me. I am grateful to have my parents still--though they are a little too far away for holiday visiting this year. I am grateful to have known my grandparents and for the lessons I learned from them. I am grateful that I had great grandparents and great-greats on down the line. I am grateful that at some point, someone in each of the branches of the family tree made the brave attempt at a new life in America and came to this country to begin a life of their own.

24th

24) I am grateful today for the early start I got on the work I needed to do. I got a move on things quick by sweeping and mopping all the wood floors int eh kitchen, dining room and front room. While I was already sweaty, and since it was only 19 degrees outside this morning, I did yoga rather than a run this morning. I had three hours of work finished already by the time I got out of the shower just after nine o'clock. Now I get to bake cookies and run errands and feel like my day is already a success.

22nd and 23rd

Hey I have 500 posts! Can that be my 22nd gratitude post?

22) I made it to 500! That is pretty crazy! Writing this is very journal-esque for me. I know my mom reads it and that keep my parents in the know for my life and the family here. I am pretty sure other friends read this too, not quite as regularly, but I only have one mom, so there you go. But I happy to write every day, and this is easier mentally for me than to fret about journaling something each day--essentially this fills that requirement too.

23) I am grateful for memories. We had Grandpa Herb down for dinner last night--well, he got here at 2 PM, and Genius Golfer's sisters and their families came over for dinner at 5 PM. Herb had found some old, old photos from the day SIL Brenda went into the MTC and when now-married & expecting niece, Larisa, and now-married nephew, Travis, were preschoolers. There was even one of BIL Mike, who looked a lot like Prince in the 80s. They were so funny.

In my visit to another ward yesterday, I was able to sit in on their sacrament meeting where my trek 'son', the Professor, had his twin brothers speak having just come home from their missions last week. They each used the word "remember" a few times in relating stories from their own experiences on the missions to illustrate the Lord's hand in missionary work. It was such a pleasure to hear them both. I am not close to them, as I feel to Professor, but I can see so much of them in him--mannerisms, inflection, bone structure, testimony, and Spirit. It was a great day. But I am grateful for the remembrances that we all have that give us fond memories and recollections we can enjoy over and over again.

21st

21) Today I am thankful for diversions. Genius golfer took The Boy and The Girl and Me to the movies. We saw the new Twilight movie, New Moon. Cheesy, yes, but better than the first. But sometimes it is just nice to veg-out and not think about real life. I probably need it a little more often, but I'll take what I can get when it comes to diversions.

20-ith

20) I am thankful today that I have the privilege of being a "stay-at-home" mom. There was a time I remember that I wouldn't have called it a privilege, but I see the wisdom in being here and raising my kids. I also have gained a greater sense of worth in doing that job. I am grateful to be the one who teaches, encourages, disciplines and corrects my own kids. I am grateful that I have the chance to help at their school and have worked in their classes. I am thankful to know many of their friends this way and have been able to get a sense of what is happening in their school life. Even though I seem to be rarely "home" I am available to my kids and make it a point to be home with them when they are here. Much like the army, this is toughest job I'll ever love. And I am very grateful for that.

The Final Teenth

19) I am grateful to be of service to Dear Friend Tammy and her husband, Mr. Rick. I go again today to spend the day with her and help her to be comfortable. I am thankful I have time to to do this. I am thankful for our friendship over the two decades or so I have know them. I am thankful for the trust this put in me to keep her safe and comfortable while Mr. Rick goes to the office for his job. I am grateful for the medical advances that they are utilizing and the additional time they have bought her. I am thankful that my capacity for compassion has increased in proportion to my need. Almost two years ago, I didn't think I had patience to do this, at least for this long. But when you care for someone, you find the ability and the motivation. I am thankful for all I am learning about myself through this experience. I am thankful I am on the giving end of this service, rather than in Tammy's place. Does that make me rude, to write that out loud? I hope not, but I a certainly am grateful for that.

18th

18th) I am thankful today for missionaries. Somewhere, for almost all of us, there was a missionary who introduced the Gospel to our family. For some, that happened a hundred years or more ago. For some of ,a bit more recently.

This weekend three just returned missioanries will be speaking in their sacrament meetings in our stake. I'll get to hear two of them. I am excited to see how they have matured and how they have internalized the Gospel and what expereiences they will share. This morning I wrote to one from our stake that just left. I know the newbie a little better than the two retruning I get to hear, but the expereiences will be life altering, regardless.

Thanks to all your have served, who are serving, and those prepring to serve someday. What a remarkable difference the Gospel makes in my life. Thank you.

17th

17) Today I am grateful that we are scaling down Christmas this year. By mutual consent, Genius Golfer and I decided on and budgeted for a much lower key Christmas. I have been working on things for a while, and upon checking my list today I have only two more items to pick up. I goal was to be done by Thanksgiving so I could enjoy the season without giving in the the "last minute" and "in case you forgot" purchasing. If we hadn't scaled back this year I'd not be anywhere close to being done. My holiday stress offers thanks in advance.

The 16th

16) Today I am thankful for a car that works when I need it and is as reliable as I could ask. I visited three different chapels yesterday in a three hour time period. I was so glad to have a car that starts when I get in it and runs when I drive it and goes where I need it to go. I saw a nail int eh right front tire this past week and had it pulled out on Friday at the Les Schwab near us. The nail was tiny and went into the treat sideways so it didn't poke through. Another reason to love this car. Yes, the price of filling the tank isn't quite what the little Honda has been for the past year, but this one is paid for and fits all the kids I need to haul around in it. I am grateful fro the mobility to drive and the freedom that give me. Some days, it's nice to know I COULD run away, if I wanted to. I'm thankful for that too.

Gratitude, Halfway There

15) This morning I am grateful for the local extended family I have.

Yesterday was day two of the countywide high school swim meet and Grandpa Herb traveled an hour south (on a BYU game day!) to watch The Girl and our two cousins--Bryce and Garret--who swim for Provo. He was a good sport and watched intently--at least he seemed interested. And he didn't put his AM radio headphones on during out kids' heats. He could keep up with the Cougars in New Mexico, and our kids in the pool. Uncle V and Aunt L along with grown up cousin, Miss Larisa, also came over to see them swim.

I had three cousins I knew well as I grew up, but that was three out of about ten more. I hope my kids get a different experience as we try to do things together with Genius Golfer's family. They enjoy getting together and hanging out with their cousins. We get a lot of support in family events from everyone, so that helps that feelings of family develop too. For all that, I am grateful.

14th Thanks

14) Today I am grateful for a nice, warm, sturdy house to live in. We woke up to snow dusting the ground. Then off to a swim meet where I timed and consequently got wet from the waist down. Then out in the windy, snowy cold to the car. So it was so nice to come home and find warm clothes, blankets, and a 'Pirates of the Caribbean' movie marathon with my kids! I do so enjoy being warm.

Friday, the 13th

13) Today I feel a sense of gratitude for a functioning body--it's not in great shape, and it's seen some wear and tear, but overall, still in working condition.

Each week I spend with Dear Friend Tammy, I am saddened to see the diminished abilities she has. ALS is a terrible disease, in that it takes away your body and your mind is fully aware of the loss. Each week there is a little less that she can do. Each week there is a little more taken from her.

In the mornings I try to jog or walk briskly for 45 minutes to an hour. This is my exercise for the day and so far is doing my mental health as much good as my physical health. When I get home I work for 15 minutes or so with the 6 pound medicine ball and then do some yoga stretches. My body feels better when I do this. On Mondays, in fact, I feel my body craving the run.

Some days, like today, my ankles and shins and calves and knees are all sore after this morning outing. Still, my ankles, shins, calves and knees are all working. I still have control over them. I might make my own sound effects these particular days, but I am grateful to be mobile. I am grateful that my body, though it is overweight and out of shape, still gets me around as I need it to do. I am grateful for the miracle of functions and systems and coordination that gives me abilities to walk, run, lift, think, remember, feel, taste, touch, smell, hear, and see.

Now, my challenge is to be more aware and in the moment as I do all these things. That is the challenge of mortal life, though, isn't it?

The 12th

12) I am grateful for the many, many friends I have gained from working in PTA over the years. I have met and worked with some wonderful, down to earth and accomplished women. They are selfless, hard working, charitable, thoughtful, talented, involved, concerned, helpful, knowledgeable, wise and wicked smart.

I don't think I will ever catch all their names here today, but here's my effort anyway:

Thank you Wendy, Sherry, Kellie, Tammy, Peggy, LeeAnn, Taffy, Jacquie, Sandy, Connie, Carolyn, Cheri, Jennifer, Amy, Lisa, Doni, Sarah, Cory, Jenny, Cami, Haley, Debbie, Nissa, Karen, Kim, Amy, Amber, Lisa, Natalie, Jamie, Melanie, Jennifer, Mary anne, Bethany, Celeste, Carol, Amy, Terri, to name a representative few.

Thanks for doing what you do, naturally, and without demanding attention or credit for your work. Thanks for watching out for my kids and the hundreds of others that you care for at our schools. Thank you for working as a team and showing what good works really are. Thanks for being there when other parents don't have that option.

Thank you for caring enough to get involved. Thank you for your friendship.

Eleventh Day, Eleventh Month

11) Today I am grateful for everyone who has ever worn the uniform of the US Military. It is Veteran's Day today, and sadly, this is a woefully under emphasized holiday. There have been too few expressions of gratitude to these men and women. There is too little respect offered to them, despite their efforts, sacrifice and dedication.

I am grateful for those willing to serve without being compelled. Those that feel in their soul a sense of duty to their country. Those that answer that duty call with optimism and hope.

My world is a better place because of the work, tears, blood and lives given by veterans from across the country and over the years. And today, particularly, I am very grateful for them.

10th Gratitude

10) I am grateful for little miracles in my life. I don't really have anything specific today, but things like getting a flat tire in the new little Honda on the Bangerter Highway and not getting the jack to work right and nearly freaking out only to have a SLC detective pulling over on his way to work to help us.

Or in the middle of a really scary moment with Dear Friend Tammy a few weeks ago, when I almost killed her, only to have her neighbor who is not normally the shift following me show up having just been trained the night before on what to do.

Or The Girl getting her period again and bleeding through her jeans one day while I am at the temple, only to have another Dear Friend--and mother to a boy The Girl's age--come to the school and rescue her by bringing her home to change.

I know I am blessed. The Lord sends tender mercies all the time. The challenge for me is to recognize them for what they are--not mere coincidences, but miracles meant just for me.

Thanks to all of you who have had part in those miracles in my life. You have been participants more than you probably even know. For that, I thank you again and again.

The Ninth

9) While I don't particularly care for surprises myself, for I love them for other people. This little video came from a friend this weekend and I was delighted by the surprise it holds. So, today I am grateful for surprising talents--whether they belong to us (in which case, we surprise ourselves) or in others where they surprise those around them. In this care, there was a surprise and a tremendous talent to share as well. Nicely done, Hollie!

7th Heaven and 8's Great!

7) Sorry for missing yesterday...it was a crazy busy day, but so good. My seventh reason to be grateful are these fantastic kids (plus 4 that couldn't make it). We had our Trek Committee Reunion last night. I had been excited about it all week. I love these kids and have missed them tremendously. I am greatful for the opportunities that I have to work with the youth of our stake. I am grateful to have had the chance to go on our trek this summer. I am grateful to see such wonderful examples of faith and testimony in our youth. They strengthen me. And I love them.





8) I am not grateful for snakes--unless they are dead. This one came out this week while it was sunny and warm (This is the 'opposition in all things' for me--I love sunny and warm, but absolutely hate snakes!) and was enjoying the weather on my driveway. I stayed in the car while The Boy scooped this monster out to the street. There is only one good kind of snake: a DEAD snake. So I am grateful that this one is dead. (And just so you know, I took this picture from the safety of the sidewalk with my telephoto lens. They are so creepy. Ewww.

Sixth Sense of Gratitude

6) Today I am grateful that I live five minutes from our temple. I went this morning and had to wait about 20 minutes to get in to do initiatory work. I am grateful that so many people were at the temple today that I had to wait.

I am grateful for the names on the cards I had today who are members of our family. I am grateful that my mom has researched the documentation to prepare these names. I am very grateful that I get to go to do the work without having to do the research.

So I guess you can say, I am grateful to be in the temple where I do work for "dead people". hehehe.

Have a great weekend, my friends!

Kindergarten Lessons

5) Today I am grateful for people who have learned to get along with others. Those who play nice and take turns and share their toys and think of others' feelings and keep the big picture in mind.

At the moment, I am a Council PTA President, which is a leader who has the primary job of training and assisting the local school PTA presidents in our town and the next (10 schools in all) with their jobs. But that is not really what I do with majority of my time. Yes, I train. Yes, I assist. But mostly I hold hands, babysit, referee, and put out fires.

Right now I am working with one school where the president this year and the president from last year are nearly going to blows. Each has their own idea of what is right and how things should be done, but rather than take turns--which we learned in our own kindergarten classes--they are making personal attacks and taking personal offense.

I'd like to think that each woman has the children's best interests at heart, but sadly, it is quickly sliding off that high ground and into the pit of despair. Mud is flinging at everyone in the area.

In light of this dilemma in my life today, I'd like to share one of my favorite essays of all time. I only wish I was wise enough to have written it. It is a Robert Fulghum classic.

Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten


Most of what I really need to know about how to live and what to do, and how to be, I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sandbox at nursery school.

These are the things I learned:

Share everything.

Play fair.

Don't hit people.

Put things back where you found them.

Clean up your own mess.

Don't take things that aren't yours.

Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.

Wash your hands before you eat.

Flush.

Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.

Live a balanced life.

Learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some.

Take a nap every afternoon.

When you go out into the world, watch for traffic, hold hands and stick together.

Be aware of wonder.

Remember the little seed in the plastic cup? The roots go down and the plant goes up and nobody really knows how or why, but we are all like that. Goldfish and hamsters and white mice and even the little seed in the plastic cup -- they all die. So do we.

And then remember the book about Dick and Jane and the first word you learned, the biggest word of all: look.

Everything you need to know is in there somewhere. The Golden Rule and love and basic sanitation. Ecology and politics and sane living.

Think what a better world it would be if we all -- the whole world -- had cookies and milk about 3 o'clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankets for a nap. Or if we had a basic policy in our nation and other nations to always put things back where we found them and cleaned up our own messes. And it is still true, no matter how old you are, when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.

~ Robert Fulghum ~

Fourth Thanks

4) Today, I am grateful for sidewalks (at least, where we have them in our city) that are cleared of trees and bushes and leaves. I have been trying to walk/jog each morning as I get kids off to school and for 45 minutes or so I exercise all over town. I challenged myself to run on the sidewalks and walk where there is not sidewalk. The only problem is when the little sidewalks we do have are overrun with hedges, bushes, tree limbs or covered in leaves. I hate scratching myself up with front yard foliage just trying to exercise.

It is almost enough to make me want to give up some days. So I am very grateful for people who take care of their yards and think of the sidewalk as their responsibility too.

Month of Gratitude

I heard about a challenge to write this month one thing each day that I am thankful for--either in a blog, in a journal, on a calendar, or on Facebook. Sounds like a good challenge.

Since today is now the 3rd of November, I have three things today that I am grateful for:

1) I am grateful that we are having warm weather in November, even if it only lasts one week. The sunshine makes me attitude so much brighter. I know in some other life, I was a fat, furry cat who lived in a nice window-y house.

2) I am grateful that my kids--this round, at least--have only been sick one day at a time. We haven't had anyone knocked out for a whole week. (*knocking on wood*)

3) I am grateful for real, applicable wisdom that comes from books. I just finished reading The Peacegiver: How Christ Offers to Heal Our Hearts and Homes by James L. Ferrell. It is a parable in five parts with a myriad of insights into the atonement and how it applies beyond just making the difference for my own sins. I found it worth buying for myself. I've only just checked it out of the library, but there are points in it that I want to study more deeply, highlight and underline. There are so many aspects to the atonement that I cannot yet comprehend. I am blown away by the tiny portion I do understand, but there is so much more.

I'll attempt to keep up this gratitude list for the month. May I suggest you try this too? Already, I can feel my outlook shift: seeking for the good, rather than the annoying or amusing to write about here. Not that annoying or amusing is bad. They have their place, but finding things to be grateful for twists your thinking to a more positive search.

PS--Please go VOTE today! Read about your candidates and vote for the best you can find. [3A) I am grateful I do not have a career in politics.]

It's A Joke, But a Little Too True

I just had a call from a Charity asking me to donate some of my clothes to the starving people throughout the world.

I told them to get lost! Anybody who fits into my clothes isn't starving!!

Sigh of Relief

Last night was our Stake YW Standards Night. I was assigned to speak, which is usually fine, but last night's message didn't come together until just beforehand. I hate not knowing what I am supposed to say until right before I am supposed to say it. So for my posting today, here is the message I gave the girls and their leaders.

To preface this, we have spent all of October in our stake focusing on the temple. My assignment was to tie the YW Personal Progress program to making and keep covenants. That is what I was assigned. This is what I ended up with:

We are daughters of our Heavenly Father, who loves us, and we love Him.
You are a beloved daughter of Heavenly Father, prepared to come to earth at this particular time for a sacred and glorious purpose. You have the noble calling to use your strength and influence for good. Your loving Heavenly Father has blessed you with talents and abilities that will help you fulfill your divine mission. Trough personal prayer, scripture study, obedience to the commandments, and service to others, you can develop these gifts. (1st presidency message in the Personal Progress book)

We will "stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places" (Mosiah 18:9) as we strive to live the Young Women values, which are:

The personal progress program uses eight YW values to help you understand more fully who you are, why you are here on earth, an what you should be doing as a daughter of God to prepare for the day you go to the temple and make sacred covenants. (Personal Progress book, pg 7)

We believe as we come to accept and act upon these values,

2 Ne 10:23 -- Therefore, cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves—to choose the way of everlasting death or the way of eternal life.


We will be prepared to strengthen home and family,
Use your influence to influence and bless your family, other young women, and the young men with whom you associate. Honor womanhood, support the priesthood, and treasure faithful motherhood and fatherhood. (1st presidency message in the PP Book)

Make and keep sacred covenants,

The temple endowment blessings are as essential for each of us as was our baptism. For this reason we are to prepare ourselves that we may be clean to enter the temple of God. (Robert D. Hales, Ensign, October 2009, pg 47)

2 Ne 11:5-- And also my soul delighteth in the covenants of the Lord which he hath made to our fathers; yea, my soul delighteth in his grace, and in his justice, and power, and mercy in the great and eternal plan of deliverance from death.

Receive the ordinances of the temple,
The opportunity to enter the temple and to take upon ourselves the sacred covenants therein is one of the greatest blessings available to us in mortality. Then, after we take upon us those covenants, our obedience in living them daily stands as a demonstration of our faith, love, devotion, and spiritual commitment to honor our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Our obedience also prepares us to live with them in the eternities. The temple’s saving ordinances are essential to—and even the central focus of—the eternal plan of happiness. (Elder Hales, Ensign, Oct 2009, pg 47)

And enjoy the blessings of exaltation.
The temple is a sacred edifice, a holy place, where essential saving ceremonies and ordinances are performed to prepare us for exaltation. It is important that we gain a sure knowledge that our preparation to enter the holy house and that our participation I these ceremonies and covenants are some of the most significant events we will experience in our mortal lives. (Elder Hales, Ensign, Oct 2009, pg 49)

The YW Personal Progress program is like a series of sign posts along this path of happiness. There are several years between the covenant you made at baptism before your next series of covenants to be made in the temple. Your personal progress program is there to guide you along the way. Did you ever think of it as a temple path guidebook? It is.

As you experience this program personally, and see your progress throughout the time you are in Young Women, you’ll also find that you have a stronger desire to be worthy to attend the temple. You’ll sense the blessings from simply being worthy to hold a temple recommend. You may even see the blessings of attending the temple now, to do baptisms for others who have gone before you. You will feel the Spirit bear testimony to you that the temple is the next step, your next goal, where you will be able to covenant with your Heavenly Father again. And you know, from your past experiences, that any time you are obedient to a commandment, He will bless you for it. You know blessings unmeasured await you making those sacred covenants with the Lord in the temple.

The purpose of the Personal Progress program is to guide you along the Lord’s path from your covenant of Baptism to the next opportunity to make and keep sacred covenants—to be worthy to enter the temple.

Why do we make such a big deal out of preparing for the temple? Because it is a big deal!

Elder Lance B. Wickham, in New Era, October 2009 said, “When we visit the temple as often as distance and individual circumstance permit, the temple will be in us. Then, despite the buffetings of life, we will always be in a holy place.”

This week I sat in the temple, thinking about this evening and what I would share with you. A wise, kind friend was with me and at one point she whispered, “Do you hear the wind blowing? I’m glad I’m in here and not out there in the storm.” We were safe within the sacred wall of God’s holy house. No earthly storm could bother us there.

Can you understand the power that you gain by being in the temple?

Alma 18: 35 --And a portion of that Spirit dwelleth in me, which giveth me knowledge, and also power according to my faith and desires which are in God.

Can you comprehend the protection that comes from being worthy to be in the temple?

Elder Boyd K. Packer, in The Holy Temple, said, “When members of the Church are troubled or when crucial decisions weigh heavily upon their minds, it is a common thing for them to go to the temple. It is a good place to take our cares. In the temple w can receive spiritual perspective.” (pg 180)

Can you imagine the blessings you are entitled to by attending the temple?

Elder Packer, said, “…The Lord will bless us as we attend to the sacred ordinance work of the temples. Blessings there will not be limited to our temple service. We will be blessed in all of our affairs. We will be eligible to have the Lord take an interest in our affairs both spiritual and temporal.” (Boyd K. Packer, in The Holy Temple, pg. 182)

We concentrate so much of our focus on being prepared for the temple because our preparation makes all the difference.

Elder Packer taught, “What we gain from the temple will depend to a large on what we take to the temple in the way of humility and reverence and a desire to learn. If we are teachable we will be taught by the Spirit, in the temple.” (Boyd K. Packer, in The Holy Temple, pg. 42)

Does being worthy to go to the temple equate to the proverbial fairy tale “happily ever after”?

Elder Packer, again, wrote, “A life of righteousness does not necessarily lift from any soul the trials and difficulties, suffering and concerns of life. But the righteous do have some protection and blessings, and there is power working in their behalf.” (Boyd K. Packer, in The Holy Temple, pg. 104)

Not everyone will have the chance to marry and raise a family in this life. But we can each prepare and be worthy to receive our own blessings—our endowments, our gifts from the Lord in the temple to grow personally. We will be blessed as we do this.

When we are TEMPLE WORTHY, we will also be WORLD READY—no matter what comes our way because we have strengthen our faith, exercised repentance and made covenants with our Heavenly Father.

The temple is not the end of this path but another gate by which to pass. The end of our desired path is our eternal home with our Father in Heaven. We must persevere and endure to that end.

The reason we emphasize the temple so much is because we love you and know that living in accordance with the commandments of our loving Heavenly Father will bring you happiness and true joy.

The power and confidence you will have as you are prepared and worthy to enter God’s holy house will go with you wherever you are. You will be more prepared to serve others, to teach the gospel, to love those around you, to become like our Savior.

May I share a blessing with you that I experienced recently as I attended the temple earlier this year? I had received some unwelcome news from my sister. I was angry and lost my temper with the Lord. It was really more of a spiritual temper tantrum. I demanded to know how He could let something like this happen. Did He not see the consequences of this and how it would affect our family? And as I thought of this one situation, and while I was still angry, I demanded to know how the Lord could even permit things like this happen in the world? How come He didn’t just figure out another way to wipe our all the evil and iniquity in the world that continually affect His children, especially all that affects those who are trying to do what is right? My heart was weighed down with the state of the world, and the state of the situation my sister had recently been dealt. I went to the temple to try to understand a world I saw as out of control.

I sat in the chapel and listened to the soft melodies of our beautiful hymns played on the organ. I tried to calm down and open my heart to His answers. As the session began, I bowed my head and asked Heavenly Father to forgive me of my anger and my tantrum but told Him that my concerns still felt valid and I needed to know what to do to deal with all the evil in the world.

I listened with attention. I felt myself open to the Spirit. As I heard the Savior’s crucifixion taught again I felt my heart fill with understanding. I felt the love our Savior has for this evil, rotten, no fair world. I felt the love He has for me. I felt the love He has for my sister and her family. I felt the love He has for all God’s children. I heard the Holy Ghost tell me that He knew my concerns and while they were valid, I didn’t need to be stressed out about them: fear, pain, hurt, heartbreak, disappointment, discouragement, powerlessness, worry. He had taken care of all of them. Already. They are all covered by His atonement. He will take care of every one of them.

That is the blessing I felt as I attended the temple that day. I was blessed with an increase of understanding, of power, of knowledge, of testimony of the divinity of our Savior. I testify to you that being in the temple gives access to power from on High, and to receive direction from that same perfect, loving, understanding source. There is no better place to be to receive that kind of personal attention from our Heavenly Father. I know that making and keeping sacred covenants will bless your life. I testify that the blessings that come as you follow God’s path of happiness, stopping when and where appropriate to make these sacred covenants with our Heavenly Father is a reward all on its own. I also know that we cannot comprehend all the blessings our Father has in store for us as we obey his commandments and follow the example of His Son. But our obedience and willingness to make and keep His sacred covenants will afford us blessings unmeasured now and through the eternities.

Street Contacting

I wish I knew where these elders are serving and who they are! What a great idea. And I bet there were several contacts made. Go missionaries!