Update:
The hard drive was a complete loss but somehow my iTunes library has been restored…ALL of IT! Who knows what the original problem was but when things were transferred to the new hard drive my iTunes library didn’t put up a fuss. *sigh* All is right in my world again.
Yesterday my day ended at the Opera. I was able to get discount tickets for a performance of Rigoletto at the Kennedy Center through my Generation O membership. Amber and Patience agreed to join me for the performance and we have been looking forward to it for the last week.
Boo and I arrived early and had time to walk around and get some snacks before patience arrived. I was reminded again of why I live out here. I love it! When Patience arrived we took our seats.
I am just learning to appreciate the opera, it is not something I was raised on. As a matter of fact, the only thing I knew about Rigoletto was the Feature Films for Families version that I saw as a kid. For some odd reason, I didn’t think that was the story I would be seeing. I love music and knew that regardless of the story, the music of Verdi would be enjoyable. And it was, the music was beautiful. There is something so moving about the opera. Even when I don’t understand the words (thank heavens for super-titles) I can feel the music move through me.
The story, on the other hand, left much to be desired. I had heard some of the songs before, even enjoyed them. I almost wish I had chosen not to see the performance so I wouldn’t know what the songs mean.
Quick Synopsis:
Rigoletto is the deformed jester of a duke; he spends his days making fun of the courtiers expecting the duke’s name to protect him. The duke is a particularly raunchy fellow who believes that all women are fickle and were made for one thing. (Yeah he is just a peach) The duke and other courtiers spend their days “seducing” each others young wives, mistresses, and daughters. Whether said women want to be seduced does not seem to matter.
Rigoletto has wisely hidden his 16 year old daughter Gilda from the town, as she is all that he has left to love in this world. The Duke finds Gilda at church one Sunday and after months of eye conversations he follows her home. One night he sneaks in and convinces Gilda that he loves her, that she is the only one for him…blah blah blah… Unfortunately young Gilda believes him; she is too naive to know that the words might not be true. The courtiers, believing that Gilda is Rigoletto’s mistress, kidnap her and take her to the palace. The duke learns that Gilda has been abducted and is in the palace so he rushes to be with her. Rigoletto, pleads with the courtiers to return his daughter, he fears that the duke will…well…. do what the duke usually does.
When Gilda is finally found, she confesses to her father that she had previously met with the Duke and loves him. She speaks of the “shame” of the abduction. (After some discussion last night; Patience and I believe that rape or “seduction” is meant to be inferred here.) Rigoletto is angry (well duh) and swears vengeance upon the duke. Gilda tries to talk him out of it but he can’t be persuaded.
Rigoletto tries to prove to Gilda of the duke’s fickle-ness by showing the duke trying to seduce another woman. Even with proof of his infidelity, naive little Gilda professes her love. Rigoletto sets assassination plans in motion. When Gilda learns of a way to save the duke’s life she gives her life to preserve his. Rigoletto realizes that his vengeance has killed his daughter.
The End
I know, wasn’t that uplifting? As I watched last night, I kept trying to find redeeming value in any of the characters. Just one…that was all I needed. But no, the Duke is just a slime ball, you think he is going to give it all up for love, but then he falls right back to the same routine. He doesn’t even get to learn that his life is saved by the one he threw away. Rigoletto’s own actions cause his downfall. If he hadn’t been so cruel to the courtiers, they would not have sought revenge by abducting his daughter. Even more so, he and Gilda would have been safely ensconced in Verona finding her a new husband if he hadn’t been seeking his own revenge. And young Gilda, I know women have brains, even the naive ones, but I am not sure where hers were. I’m not sure Verdi thought of women’s need for emotional self preservation but he seems to be under the definite impression that the fairer sex was given the disposition of angels. I mean, who else would be willing to sacrifice their love and their life, for someone who thought so little of them in return.
I am always grateful that I was born in this generation. I don’t consider myself a feminist but I doubt I could have handled the general mindset of earlier centuries. I value myself too highly to be a viewed as a doormat or piece of garbage to be thrown aside. Now I just have to convince myself that all men aren’t as fickle as the Duke or as egocentric as Rigoletto
Wednesday, April 2
Another week.........
Due to the Opera I attended last night I missed my American Idol fix. Therefore today during lunch I watched the performances on Youtube.
During my search I found this:
Yet again, why are Kristy Cook, Rami, and Syesha still in the running. PUh-lease! ;)
During my search I found this:
Yet again, why are Kristy Cook, Rami, and Syesha still in the running. PUh-lease! ;)
Monday, March 31
RIP...yet another one!
So I seem to be rather hard on my electrical equipment. When I first started with my current company I was the receptionist.....I used the desktop computer at the front desk. It was a sweet set up. Some days.....*sigh* I miss that.
But things changed and I started working with the HR department. I was given a laptop....after months of computer problems and the death of 2 Dell laptops, the company purchased me a brand new Compaq. I have loved my little Compaq. It has been with me for over a year and been through a lot. Unfortunately, 2 or 3 weeks ago, my little Compaq couldn't handle the pressure and gave out. I was told it was a hardWARE problem not a hardDRIVE problem, so IT was able to save my life (i.e...all my information) and transfer it to an ugly little dell that I have been using. I haven't put any pressure on this little computer, remembering the problems of my past. Which, it seems, was rather justified. While trying to learn more about the Green River Killer last night with Patience, the Dell decided it was too much. When I brought it to IT this morning I was told that it was the harddrive. *sigh*
So here I sit on a temp laptop...which is better then the ugly dell but not as nice as my little Compaq.
At least they saved the last hard drive so it is only the last couple of weeks that I have to make up for.
Mondays Stink!
But things changed and I started working with the HR department. I was given a laptop....after months of computer problems and the death of 2 Dell laptops, the company purchased me a brand new Compaq. I have loved my little Compaq. It has been with me for over a year and been through a lot. Unfortunately, 2 or 3 weeks ago, my little Compaq couldn't handle the pressure and gave out. I was told it was a hardWARE problem not a hardDRIVE problem, so IT was able to save my life (i.e...all my information) and transfer it to an ugly little dell that I have been using. I haven't put any pressure on this little computer, remembering the problems of my past. Which, it seems, was rather justified. While trying to learn more about the Green River Killer last night with Patience, the Dell decided it was too much. When I brought it to IT this morning I was told that it was the harddrive. *sigh*
So here I sit on a temp laptop...which is better then the ugly dell but not as nice as my little Compaq.
At least they saved the last hard drive so it is only the last couple of weeks that I have to make up for.
Mondays Stink!
Friday, March 28
Wow...I made it.....
I just realized it is after 5 pm....(5:02 is after 5 pm!)
I can't believe it, I made it to the end of the work day!
Well I am going to send one last email and then head home to drink lots of Chamomile tea and suck on cough drops in the hopes that I will have my voice back soon!
I can't believe it, I made it to the end of the work day!
Well I am going to send one last email and then head home to drink lots of Chamomile tea and suck on cough drops in the hopes that I will have my voice back soon!
Happy Weekend y'all!
Thursday, March 27
2 Things:
A) I found it interesting that todays 'Note from the Universe' read as follows:
B)
I joined the 100+ Reading Challenge with my friend Jessica. Yay!
I figure, since I was already keeping track I might as well join the group. It shouldn't be all that hard to complete; I have already finished over40 books since January 1st. I think I might have burned myself out for a bit....but the urge to finish my book on the battle at Balleau Wood is to strong to stop reading for very long. Lol!
Any and all forms of separation - disconnects, divides, partings, breakups, and goodbyes - Rachel, are temporary. Very.
You'll be together far, far longer than you will ever be apart.
Forever and ever -
The Universe
I joined the 100+ Reading Challenge with my friend Jessica. Yay!I figure, since I was already keeping track I might as well join the group. It shouldn't be all that hard to complete; I have already finished over40 books since January 1st. I think I might have burned myself out for a bit....but the urge to finish my book on the battle at Balleau Wood is to strong to stop reading for very long. Lol!
Wednesday, March 26
Thoughts......
I have tried to write about this weekend repeatedly, only to come up with disjointed phrases. So let’s try it this way:
Gramps passed away on Saturday March 15, 2008. I had a chance to talk to him the Sunday before he died. Very little was said, but I was again reminded of how important it is to be able to say ‘I Love You’ one more time.
I worked for a week, but I don’t remember much of it. That seems to be normal though, hence I have a blog to remind me.
I arrived in California late Friday night, after brief hellos, I was tucked into a mattress on the living room floor. Dad took pictures. Not sure why he wanted to commemorate the fact that it was almost 3 am my time and I was exhausted.
Saturday: Grandma made pancakes. I was kind of surprised how normal the routine seemed. The only thing missing was Gramdpa. Breakfast was followed by errands with Gretch, frames, ink cartridges, lunch, nylons, and blank DVD’s. More family arrived.
Sunday: Grandma made German Pancakes; such goodness I had never known. YUM! There was an Easter egg hunt because Grandma wanted things to be as normal as possible. The last of the family arrived and we all got ready for Church, where we took over a sacrament meeting. I think we literally doubled the meetings attendance though most of our heads were bobbing in fatigue by the time the Easter program started. Lol!
Sunday Night: The Viewing started right after church……I am not a fan of viewings. As I have stated before in this blog, I deal with death by reminding myself it is like a friend who has moved far away. The person is gone from sight but I have a chance to see them again someday. Viewings do not help this, for lack of a better word, pretending. I choose not to find closure in the empty vessel left behind.
*SIDEBAR*
I will forever and always see Grandpa Hinkson standing tall, fanny pack around his waist with a goofy smile as he cracked silly jokes in the living room of the tiny 3 bedroom apartment in Ohio when I was 11. 17 years have gone by since that day, but I still have vague memories of him telling us we were family, there would be no step or half or anything else. We were Mom and Dad and brother and sister, we were FAMILY.
*END SIDEBAR*
Sunday night was about visiting. I didn’t know many of the people that came to say goodbye, but many of the cousins were there. It was nice to be able to talk and visit with family; to laugh and joke about the way Gramps had been in life.
Monday: Monday was a beautiful day. The sun was shining, the temperature was nice, and there was a slight breeze. There was some more time for a viewing and then time for family to say one last goodbye. I resisted the urge to look in the casket. The urge was more to follow the expected protocol; I didn’t want anyone to think that I didn’t care. In reality, I have found that it does more harm then good for me so I decided that the protocol was not important. It was hard to watch my father, my aunts and uncles, and especially my Grandmother as they gathered around the casket in a loose semi circle to see Grandpa for one last time. I doubt there were any that were unmoved by the grief that was there.
A beautiful funeral followed. The bagpipes were poignant; the speakers and music was appropriately respectful, and the eulogy was a great look at the life of a righteous and wonderful man. The graveside service had all the honors that a respected serviceman should have and loving dedicatory prayer given by my uncle.
At the end of the services there was a lowering of the casket and members of the family were allowed to participate in shoveling the dirt, one shovelful at a time. Most chose to take part. I did not. Another thing that was not necessary. I did take an opportunity by throwing a purple flower onto the casket. It was enough of a good bye for me. There was a slight detour to lunch as we took a scenic route…Lol! By the time we got to the luncheon we were starving and grateful for the food that was provided by the Relief Society. Monday night was filled with the departure of family members and the preparation for my own departure. There was time to talk and visit more and it was good just to be there among family. It was so nice to get to know them better. I hope to continue to build on those relationships. Family is so important.
Tuesday started out like normal…..with Pancakes. Lol! With goodbye hugs Gretch and I left. She dropped me off at the airport on her way home to Northern CA. The trip was long and uncomfortable but I filled it with a new book. Not one I liked but it kept me busy until I was picked up at the airport in DC.
I can’t really explain all the emotions that were involved in this trip. Let’s just say the weekend trip felt like it lasted much, much longer. Grandpa was an amazing man; he taught me about keeping an upbeat attitude and about the importance of family. He will be missed in this life and there are many of us that look forward to seeing him again in the next. We love you Gramps!
Gramps passed away on Saturday March 15, 2008. I had a chance to talk to him the Sunday before he died. Very little was said, but I was again reminded of how important it is to be able to say ‘I Love You’ one more time.
I worked for a week, but I don’t remember much of it. That seems to be normal though, hence I have a blog to remind me.
I arrived in California late Friday night, after brief hellos, I was tucked into a mattress on the living room floor. Dad took pictures. Not sure why he wanted to commemorate the fact that it was almost 3 am my time and I was exhausted.
Saturday: Grandma made pancakes. I was kind of surprised how normal the routine seemed. The only thing missing was Gramdpa. Breakfast was followed by errands with Gretch, frames, ink cartridges, lunch, nylons, and blank DVD’s. More family arrived.
Sunday: Grandma made German Pancakes; such goodness I had never known. YUM! There was an Easter egg hunt because Grandma wanted things to be as normal as possible. The last of the family arrived and we all got ready for Church, where we took over a sacrament meeting. I think we literally doubled the meetings attendance though most of our heads were bobbing in fatigue by the time the Easter program started. Lol!
Sunday Night: The Viewing started right after church……I am not a fan of viewings. As I have stated before in this blog, I deal with death by reminding myself it is like a friend who has moved far away. The person is gone from sight but I have a chance to see them again someday. Viewings do not help this, for lack of a better word, pretending. I choose not to find closure in the empty vessel left behind.
*SIDEBAR*
I will forever and always see Grandpa Hinkson standing tall, fanny pack around his waist with a goofy smile as he cracked silly jokes in the living room of the tiny 3 bedroom apartment in Ohio when I was 11. 17 years have gone by since that day, but I still have vague memories of him telling us we were family, there would be no step or half or anything else. We were Mom and Dad and brother and sister, we were FAMILY.
*END SIDEBAR*
Sunday night was about visiting. I didn’t know many of the people that came to say goodbye, but many of the cousins were there. It was nice to be able to talk and visit with family; to laugh and joke about the way Gramps had been in life.
Monday: Monday was a beautiful day. The sun was shining, the temperature was nice, and there was a slight breeze. There was some more time for a viewing and then time for family to say one last goodbye. I resisted the urge to look in the casket. The urge was more to follow the expected protocol; I didn’t want anyone to think that I didn’t care. In reality, I have found that it does more harm then good for me so I decided that the protocol was not important. It was hard to watch my father, my aunts and uncles, and especially my Grandmother as they gathered around the casket in a loose semi circle to see Grandpa for one last time. I doubt there were any that were unmoved by the grief that was there.
A beautiful funeral followed. The bagpipes were poignant; the speakers and music was appropriately respectful, and the eulogy was a great look at the life of a righteous and wonderful man. The graveside service had all the honors that a respected serviceman should have and loving dedicatory prayer given by my uncle.
At the end of the services there was a lowering of the casket and members of the family were allowed to participate in shoveling the dirt, one shovelful at a time. Most chose to take part. I did not. Another thing that was not necessary. I did take an opportunity by throwing a purple flower onto the casket. It was enough of a good bye for me. There was a slight detour to lunch as we took a scenic route…Lol! By the time we got to the luncheon we were starving and grateful for the food that was provided by the Relief Society. Monday night was filled with the departure of family members and the preparation for my own departure. There was time to talk and visit more and it was good just to be there among family. It was so nice to get to know them better. I hope to continue to build on those relationships. Family is so important.
Tuesday started out like normal…..with Pancakes. Lol! With goodbye hugs Gretch and I left. She dropped me off at the airport on her way home to Northern CA. The trip was long and uncomfortable but I filled it with a new book. Not one I liked but it kept me busy until I was picked up at the airport in DC.
I can’t really explain all the emotions that were involved in this trip. Let’s just say the weekend trip felt like it lasted much, much longer. Grandpa was an amazing man; he taught me about keeping an upbeat attitude and about the importance of family. He will be missed in this life and there are many of us that look forward to seeing him again in the next. We love you Gramps!
To geek or not to geek....
61% Geek
I think my rating reflects that I know geeks more then it reflects my personal geek status! Thanks Steph....and Richard. LOL!
I think my rating reflects that I know geeks more then it reflects my personal geek status! Thanks Steph....and Richard. LOL!
Friday, March 21
They are tough little whippersnappers...
Wednesday, March 19
The Economy Today.........
Rae: ...but I want to be able to stay home and play all day while someone else brings home the bacon.....
Rae: think I could apply for that job with someone?
Jeremy!: no, I think in this economy the job you're after isn't to be found
Jeremy!:without additional skills
Rae: hmmm........
Rae:I have additional skills...but very few people are allowed to know about those.
Jeremy!: like I said, in this economy, being a little more forthcoming about those can get you a foothold
Jeremy!: or other-body-part-hold....
Rae: yes...well with my trust issues....I figure the economy will change before I do
Rae: think I could apply for that job with someone?
Jeremy!: no, I think in this economy the job you're after isn't to be found
Jeremy!:without additional skills
Rae: hmmm........
Rae:I have additional skills...but very few people are allowed to know about those.
Jeremy!: like I said, in this economy, being a little more forthcoming about those can get you a foothold
Jeremy!: or other-body-part-hold....
Rae: yes...well with my trust issues....I figure the economy will change before I do
Tuesday, March 18
This Ewok didn't battle for Endor......
But I would have joined the battle if they could've corralled my "ooh shiny" moments......
| Star Wars Horoscope for Gemini |
 Like most Geminis, you are a playful little creature. You tend to be extremely curious, craving knowledge but sometimes having a short attention span. For the most part, you are charming and lovable. But at times, you can seem scattered and high-strung. Star wars character you are most like: Ewoks |
Monday, March 17
The day of Green......
Today is one of my favorite days of the entire year. I love St Patrick's Day. In years past I have been know to to wear green from head to toe. Usually there is a special bounce in my step, it must be the fact that green is my favorite color.
This year, I am not so into it.......I am not even wearing any green.
Hopefully my enthusiasm will return some time today. Maybe I can find someone who wants to go to IHOP for dinner/FHE. They are serving Green Eggs and Ham.
Any takers?
This year, I am not so into it.......I am not even wearing any green.
Hopefully my enthusiasm will return some time today. Maybe I can find someone who wants to go to IHOP for dinner/FHE. They are serving Green Eggs and Ham.
Any takers?
Saturday, March 15
Friday, March 14
My favorite songs.......
I can't seem to concentrate today.... so i am going to give a shout out to my current favorite radio website. YAY for Yahoo Launchcast!!
as you can probably guess I have been listening to the various play lists and thought I would share my current radio favorites. Enjoy!
New Soul by Yael Naim. You probably have heard the commercial that this is attached to. My friend Tara introduced me to this artist. The whole CD is interesting, it makes me wish I spoke French and Hebrew:
Love Song by Sara Bareilles.....I actually like her whole CD; NOT the video. But it is the only one that I can get to post on my blog. The second song starts around 4:25 or so. You can stop listening there. Lol! Enjoy the music! :)
Bleeding Love by Leona Lewis.......
This one has an awesome video that I can't figure out how to post on my blog either. It can be found HERE.
See You Again Miley Cyrus....I am disturbed that I like this song...but I do..what else can I say.
Over You by Chris Daughtry....Love Him!! Another great CD!
And that concludes todays videos...enjoy!
as you can probably guess I have been listening to the various play lists and thought I would share my current radio favorites. Enjoy!
New Soul by Yael Naim. You probably have heard the commercial that this is attached to. My friend Tara introduced me to this artist. The whole CD is interesting, it makes me wish I spoke French and Hebrew:
Love Song by Sara Bareilles.....I actually like her whole CD; NOT the video. But it is the only one that I can get to post on my blog. The second song starts around 4:25 or so. You can stop listening there. Lol! Enjoy the music! :)
Bleeding Love by Leona Lewis.......
This one has an awesome video that I can't figure out how to post on my blog either. It can be found HERE.
See You Again Miley Cyrus....I am disturbed that I like this song...but I do..what else can I say.
Over You by Chris Daughtry....Love Him!! Another great CD!
And that concludes todays videos...enjoy!
Wednesday, March 12
The American Idol Pool
So apparently You Tube and Blogger decided to play tricks on me. So here is the post that was supposed to go out yesterday with these videos.
It is that time of year again. My office pool has set and I have chosen the American Idol that I am willing to put my money on.
My all time favorite is David Cook. Every week I love listening to him. Especially the version he did of this song:
So my money is on him. Good luck David!
But I must say (even though I didn't pick him for the office pool) I secretly wish that Chikezie wins. For some reason when I see him I think of my friend Nick.
It is that time of year again. My office pool has set and I have chosen the American Idol that I am willing to put my money on.
My all time favorite is David Cook. Every week I love listening to him. Especially the version he did of this song:
So my money is on him. Good luck David!
But I must say (even though I didn't pick him for the office pool) I secretly wish that Chikezie wins. For some reason when I see him I think of my friend Nick.
In response:
I need to leave for dinner here in a few minutes but I wanted to blog this before I forgot. I came across Jessica’s question while catching up on my blogs while taking a turn at our reception desk.
Now I am the type of person who reads almost anything fiction and non-fiction alike. There was always so much information to learn. I remember reading the large biographies and histories of WWII when I was in middle school. Things didn’t change as I grew up. I don’t remember when I started reading most of the genres that I currently enjoy. But the Romance genre stands out in my memory; probably because of the 'taboo-ness' that was given to the genre. My big sister dubbed them “my trashy slut-whore novels”. No she has never read one and she probably never will. Lol! But I am okay with that. I understand where the bias comes from. But I also reserve the right to enjoy a sweet romance when I want one. Lol!
So in answer to Jessica’s question:
I started reading Romance novels in High school. My neighbor had a closet full of Harlequin Historicals. She was also the Bishop’s wife. (For the non-LDS: The Bishop is the leader of the local congregation) I used the justification that if she could read them so could I. I wasn’t shy about it either, though I knew that the books were taboo. My neighbor kept hers hidden in a secret closet in her sewing room, fo heavens sake. But I was 16 and had no shame. I made a deal with my AP history teacher: I would show up to class and take the tests if he didn’t require me to pay attention to his lectures. So I sat in the back of AP history and read my historicals while listening to my headphones. (Yes I passed that class; I never had issues with history).
The happy endings are what keeps me coming back. There is something about knowing that there will always be a happy ending, Sometimes I want the good guy to get the girl, the bad guy to get punished and every one to live happily ever after. I don’t want to have to worry about it whether or not I will be depressed at the end of the book. My usual motto is that if I wanted to depress myself I would watch the news. Why spend my free time depressing myself with fiction novels. Lol! That doesn’t mean I solely read the happy stuff now but I will admit to enjoying it as much if not more then almost anything else.
When I started my own collection I did keep them under my bed. There were young impressionable minds in the house (to be honest I was out of bookshelf space. Lol!). As a adult, there are houses I have lived in where I keep the romance novels in my room instead of with the other authors in the library, out of respect for the others living in the house. Even with that, I usually don’t let the taboo-ness bother me. I read what I want, where I want. Lol! It always makes me smile when I see a woman sitting on the train reading a romance novel.
Now I am the type of person who reads almost anything fiction and non-fiction alike. There was always so much information to learn. I remember reading the large biographies and histories of WWII when I was in middle school. Things didn’t change as I grew up. I don’t remember when I started reading most of the genres that I currently enjoy. But the Romance genre stands out in my memory; probably because of the 'taboo-ness' that was given to the genre. My big sister dubbed them “my trashy slut-whore novels”. No she has never read one and she probably never will. Lol! But I am okay with that. I understand where the bias comes from. But I also reserve the right to enjoy a sweet romance when I want one. Lol!
So in answer to Jessica’s question:
I would love to hear from you about how you found this genre, what led you here, and what has kept your interest for so many years.
I started reading Romance novels in High school. My neighbor had a closet full of Harlequin Historicals. She was also the Bishop’s wife. (For the non-LDS: The Bishop is the leader of the local congregation) I used the justification that if she could read them so could I. I wasn’t shy about it either, though I knew that the books were taboo. My neighbor kept hers hidden in a secret closet in her sewing room, fo heavens sake. But I was 16 and had no shame. I made a deal with my AP history teacher: I would show up to class and take the tests if he didn’t require me to pay attention to his lectures. So I sat in the back of AP history and read my historicals while listening to my headphones. (Yes I passed that class; I never had issues with history).
The happy endings are what keeps me coming back. There is something about knowing that there will always be a happy ending, Sometimes I want the good guy to get the girl, the bad guy to get punished and every one to live happily ever after. I don’t want to have to worry about it whether or not I will be depressed at the end of the book. My usual motto is that if I wanted to depress myself I would watch the news. Why spend my free time depressing myself with fiction novels. Lol! That doesn’t mean I solely read the happy stuff now but I will admit to enjoying it as much if not more then almost anything else.
When I started my own collection I did keep them under my bed. There were young impressionable minds in the house (to be honest I was out of bookshelf space. Lol!). As a adult, there are houses I have lived in where I keep the romance novels in my room instead of with the other authors in the library, out of respect for the others living in the house. Even with that, I usually don’t let the taboo-ness bother me. I read what I want, where I want. Lol! It always makes me smile when I see a woman sitting on the train reading a romance novel.
Deep Sleep?
I woke confused this morning.....
For the past couple of days I have been sleeping with my phone on just in case I get a call from my family. This morning I woke up to it off. I know it was on last night when I went to sleep. I can only assume that I turned it off sometime during the night.
Here is the troubling question:
I don't recall waking up to answer the phone, but it wouldn't be the first time I had a conversation with someone while I was asleep. If I did....what did I say and what was I told?
Did you call me?
For the past couple of days I have been sleeping with my phone on just in case I get a call from my family. This morning I woke up to it off. I know it was on last night when I went to sleep. I can only assume that I turned it off sometime during the night.
Here is the troubling question:
Did I answer a ringing phone in the middle of the night before I turned it off?
(The only plausible scenario that I can come up with is that I woke to the ringing phone answered it and then turned off the phone when I was done speaking to whomever it was.)
(The only plausible scenario that I can come up with is that I woke to the ringing phone answered it and then turned off the phone when I was done speaking to whomever it was.)
I don't recall waking up to answer the phone, but it wouldn't be the first time I had a conversation with someone while I was asleep. If I did....what did I say and what was I told?
Did you call me?
Tuesday, March 11
Science...Ugh
And now you know why I liked history and English better....
P.S. Good news on the family front. While things might not be good for long they are good now and that is all we can ask. :)
Thanks for those that called. :)
P.S. Good news on the family front. While things might not be good for long they are good now and that is all we can ask. :)
Thanks for those that called. :)
Sunday, March 9
Duh....
Last night I had an epiphany while watching the movie 16 Candles. Does anybody remember Farmer Ted? I do (but that is not the point of this post). Last night reminded me that it is also the name of a character in that movie.You know the geeky one that is in love with Molly Ringwold. She even gives him her panties to help him out of a bind. Lol! I apparently had a soft spot for geeks even in my childhood. Lol!
As a side note:
I am not ignoring the other things going on right now but I don't want to talk about them. I seem to be a bit of a watering pot and I don't want to discuss it here. Lets just say it is shaping up to be a difficult week for my family.
As a side note:
I am not ignoring the other things going on right now but I don't want to talk about them. I seem to be a bit of a watering pot and I don't want to discuss it here. Lets just say it is shaping up to be a difficult week for my family.
Friday, March 7
Baby Hannah Jean Arrives
I got the call this morning shortly after I arrived at work. I have a new niece. I will let my brother tell the story in his own words.........
Congrats Ralph and Julie. I am very happy for you!
A new little Hinkson shatters the sound barrier
Well, it is official. Hannah Jean Hinkson was born about 4:30pm (Baghdad time), which would make it about 6:30am in Utah. (This email may not be 100% factual).
Hannah, is a name from the Old Testament; she was the mother of Samuel the Prophet. However, this is only the spelling that we have chosen. The name we liked is pronounced the same, but in Arabic, the word hana' (with a glottal stop at the end) means "happiness or bliss." I also like the palindrome quality of HANNAH, backwards and forwards it is the same. Jean is the name of Julie's maternal grandmother, Jean Partridge, who will be tickled pink to learn Hannah's middle name, I'm sure. Amber's middle name is Louise, after my maternal grandmother (who hopefully will be able to come out and visit us when I am in town in April or May).
Hannah weighed in at 8 pounds 2 ounces and was twenty-one and a half inches long. (For all of you who like to compare, Amber was 7 pounds fourteen ounces and was twenty-two inches long. I think).
This birth went much faster (only fourteen hours) than Amber's birth. From what I hear Julie was able to relax and take it easy for most of the time.
Julie went into the hospital late last night and had the baby early this morning. Her sister, Diana, slept over with Julie at the hospital. Julie's mom, Beth, arrived around six in the morning and was there for the birth. Julie's father, Bruce, stayed home with Amber.
Julie tried to call my parents early this morning, but they were peacefully sleeping (or at least peacefully not answering the phone). At 6:30am, I can see them not answering the phone while they study the scriptures. And, there was absolutely no indication that Julie would be in labor at all this week.
We were quite surprised by this turn of events. Julie had been told that she would not give birth until next week at the earliest, but when Julie went to the hospital for her "non-stress test" she was told that her blood pressure was a little too high and the baby's was a little too low. So, they decided to monitor her and the lifeform within her.
She didn't want to bother anyone, because she had not progressed towards giving birth at all. But, after several hours of observation, they determined that they would slowly induce the pregnancy. By that time, it was late at night... and by six or so she was dilated to a nine (nine centimeters). Note: Americans don't know what that really means. We have never understood the metric system. If we knew how big nine centimeters was in the English system of measurement (inches) we would all be "grossed out." Explaining things in centimeters is a way to explain reality without terrorizing the maternal populace.
Some good news, no forceps were used. Amber had to be pulled out; but Hannah seemingly glided out.
I had been receiving updates over the past few hours (which were the late hours of the evening for you, but not for me). Julie was able to rest most of the time while she was "progressing."
Julie talked with me until the very last moment, and then handed the phone over to her sister, Diana, for the "play by play." This was Diana's first time and Julie's mother's first time witnessing "the miracle of birth." As Julie's mom put it, a few minutes later, it was her first time from that end. (Or maybe that is how I am putting it... she said something like that to me).
I could imagine everything happening from last time. I think I kept asking Diana if they were doing what they were just about to do.
I was caught by surprise to hear little Hannah start to cry. I think I'll always remember that moment first hearing her cat-like screeching, standing in the gravel, rocking back and forth, burying my shoes in the gravel... in a dusty, outdoor corrider between stuccoed T-wall and the similarly stuccoed walls of our building, lucky number thirteen. The sky was a beautiful shade of blue, and I watched our entire building vacate, in order to attend the memorial service of a serviceman who died in a helicopter crash a few days ago. I think that this same kind of juxtaposition happens every day. I am glad to be on the happy side of the equation today.
I am very much looking forward to seeing pictures of my new daughter (and her mommy... and her sister), hopefully I can receive and download some of those tonight. I am sure that I will receive a steady stream of new pictures. It is amazing how close I feel to the situation, despite my distant reality; and I have many of you to thank for that.
March 7th has turned out to be a very beautiful day, one of the best days of my life.
Hannah seemed to cry longer than I remember Amber crying. I have been told that she looks healthy. She has good color; she has brown hair... and Julie told me that she was making some Truman faces... and then she made some faces that looked like me. Poor kid, hopefully she grows out of that, right Truman?
..........(Rae's Editing)
I consider myself very blessed. I never really imagined growing up, what a sweet experience it is to be a father. I think I could see it in my mind... but I never saw it in my heart. That same sweet awe that I felt when Amber was born has revisited me.
I am grateful for a beautiful wife, and two sweet little girls. I couldn't be happier (unless I were home right now... but that will happen very soon).
Over and out...
Ralph
Congrats Ralph and Julie. I am very happy for you!
Thursday, March 6
The day of the Dentist
Today was a day I have been afraid of all week long! It started in the middle of the night with me being sick. So when 7 am came and I was still not well I decided to rest before the big event.
For those that don't know I am afraid of the dentist. I have been this way since I was a kid. My first memory from the dentist, I think I was about 8 or there abouts. I know we were in Kearns at the time. Anyway I remember sitting in the lobby of the dentist crying. I had just had caps put on my baby teeth and it hurt. Alot! Mom was talking to the lady at the desk telling her there was something wrong because I couldn't stop crying and the lady was telling her there was nothing wrong. Mom finally brought me over and had me open my mouth to show that my gums were bleeding. A man was brought out and I was rushed back into a chair so they could fix whatever they had done. Things didn't get better as time went on. I remember Mom getting angry with another dentist because she kept me in the chair for hours AFTER she had been told I was afraid of her. Lol! By the time I went on my mission my dentist had taken to giving me Valium just to get me in the chair, with the hopes that I wouldn't bite him. I only did that once!
So fast forward to now....I have tried to get over this fear. I no longer take the meds (though they are available if I need it) and I usually can get through a session with nothing more then my headphones. Today I went in because I know there is work to be done and I was having a bit pain in one of my teeth. Apparently one of the roots had decided to start to wrap around some sort of bone that caused pain to shoot up into my ears and around the front of my teeth. So after 2+ hours of work, lots of needles, and a very nervous dentist and assistant (I started to shake, got really cold, and kept holding my breath) I came out one tooth less.
Now I am home with a swollen jaw and under orders to continue to ice my face and eat only soft foods for 48 hours. Monday I have to go in and have the stitches removed and possible have the cleaning that was supposed to happen today. Lol! And while I think my dentist is a very nice man....I really, really don't like him right now.
Ugh!!
For those that don't know I am afraid of the dentist. I have been this way since I was a kid. My first memory from the dentist, I think I was about 8 or there abouts. I know we were in Kearns at the time. Anyway I remember sitting in the lobby of the dentist crying. I had just had caps put on my baby teeth and it hurt. Alot! Mom was talking to the lady at the desk telling her there was something wrong because I couldn't stop crying and the lady was telling her there was nothing wrong. Mom finally brought me over and had me open my mouth to show that my gums were bleeding. A man was brought out and I was rushed back into a chair so they could fix whatever they had done. Things didn't get better as time went on. I remember Mom getting angry with another dentist because she kept me in the chair for hours AFTER she had been told I was afraid of her. Lol! By the time I went on my mission my dentist had taken to giving me Valium just to get me in the chair, with the hopes that I wouldn't bite him. I only did that once!
So fast forward to now....I have tried to get over this fear. I no longer take the meds (though they are available if I need it) and I usually can get through a session with nothing more then my headphones. Today I went in because I know there is work to be done and I was having a bit pain in one of my teeth. Apparently one of the roots had decided to start to wrap around some sort of bone that caused pain to shoot up into my ears and around the front of my teeth. So after 2+ hours of work, lots of needles, and a very nervous dentist and assistant (I started to shake, got really cold, and kept holding my breath) I came out one tooth less.
Now I am home with a swollen jaw and under orders to continue to ice my face and eat only soft foods for 48 hours. Monday I have to go in and have the stitches removed and possible have the cleaning that was supposed to happen today. Lol! And while I think my dentist is a very nice man....I really, really don't like him right now.
Ugh!!
Wednesday, March 5
Some days....
For one of my dates we went to the drive in. Not a real one of course. We were in UT we had to be "creative". We created "cars" out of cardboard boxes and then "drove" to my garage and watched Bye Bye Birdie there. It was rather fun. But that is not the focal point of this post. It was there that I was introduced to this song (The important part starts at 1:11):
Most days I don't agree with this song....
Then there are days like today that I completely disagree and have decided that God hates women in general.
So I am going to hide away for a bit....and as Vada told Thomas J.:
"Go away! And don't come back for five to seven days!"
Most days I don't agree with this song....
Then there are days like today that I completely disagree and have decided that God hates women in general.
So I am going to hide away for a bit....and as Vada told Thomas J.:
"Go away! And don't come back for five to seven days!"
Thursday, February 28
It makes sense.....
My favorite Sesame Street character has always been Ernie so it makes sense that I would be his stuffed shirt roommate.....
You Are Bert |
 Extremely serious and a little eccentric, people find you lovable - even if you don't love them! You are usually feeling: Logical - you rarely let your emotions rule you You are famous for: Being smart, a total neat freak, and maybe just a little evil How you live your life: With passion, even if your odd passions (like bottle caps and pigeons) are baffling to others |
Monday, February 25
I am boring....
Other then playing with Patience on Saturday afternoon, I had a very boring weekend. So to entertain the masses I found this one at Nichtszusagen.
2. Open it to page 123.
3. Find the first 5 sentences and write them down.
4. Then invite 5 friends to do the same.
The current book sitting on my desk was purchased this weekend at my favorite bookstore ever.
The title is Miracle at Belleau Wood The Birth of the Modern U.S. Marine Corps by Alan Axelrod.
Page 123, first 5 complete sentences:
I tag:
Jeremy
Boo/Steph
Kate
Cyn
Meg
Monday Morning Meme
1. Grab the nearest book of 123 pages or more.2. Open it to page 123.
3. Find the first 5 sentences and write them down.
4. Then invite 5 friends to do the same.
The current book sitting on my desk was purchased this weekend at my favorite bookstore ever.
The title is Miracle at Belleau Wood The Birth of the Modern U.S. Marine Corps by Alan Axelrod.
Page 123, first 5 complete sentences:
While Hamilton and his men took, then overshot their objective, back below Hill 142 Julius Turrill observed the fourth wave of his two companies approach the perimeter of the first woods at the end of the wheat field. Just then - minutes past four in the morning - he was approached by Lieutenant Gilfillan, whose platoon was at the forefront of the units that had been stalled at Les Mares Farm. The rest of Turrill's battalion was beginning to come on line, he announced.Fascinating...I know!
As he watched the fourth wave melt into the woods, Turrill wasted no time. He began sending the incoming reinforcements - who should have been part of the original attack - to the edge of the first woods.
I tag:
Jeremy
Boo/Steph
Kate
Cyn
Meg
Thursday, February 21
One of those nights.......
Last night was one of those that you never hope to have to handle. I called a friend of my and was horrified to hear that she had had another loss in her family. Feeling completely helpless I immediately started packing to head back to her place for the night. As I caught the metro back to NoVa I was taken back to a night 4 weeks ago when the call went out for this same friend. She had lost her mother and we scrambled to help in any way we could. Now she is again on a flight out of town to deal with another funeral. I can only imagine the turmoil she is dealing with.
After Kate and I arrived at the apartment we ordered pizza and just talked. Not about anything special, at least that I remember, we were just there. Finally, crawling into bed around midnight or so, we talked for a while before I dropped off into a disturbed sleep. Just before 5 am I woke with a jolt…..not often do I dream about Neil Patrick Harris (who was called Uncle Doog in dreamland) and Blanche Deveraux……but after surfacing I realized that my friend wasn’t in bed, she wasn’t able to sleep and had moved to the couch. So we sat and talked some more; about life and death and all things in-between. I don’t think she ever fell back asleep though I got about 10 more minutes before I had to get ready for work.
Parts of that early morning conversation have stuck with me through out my day. For part of the conversation I spoke of Courtney and Kim and things that I share with very few people. I have learned to recite the events of that time without emotion but last night I was unable to do so. It irritates me that I couldn’t keep my emotions in check, but even now my eyes tear as I think about Courtney. Her birthday is in just over 3 weeks. She would have been 28. In my head I can see her married to a good man, not someone who could turn heads but someone who was good like she was, with a whole passel of kids.
It has been 17 and a half years since that horrible day in August which changed the lives of every member of my family. If my heart still hurts this much, I can’t even fathom how my step dad and siblings feel. The cliché’s say that it gets better but it doesn’t. You just learn to live with it. You become grateful for the twinge of pain, because that means their life was important. Even after all of these years I can hear Courtney in my head admonishing me when I have done wrong and encouraging me when I need a boost. Others have joined in now and I can hear Auntie Jo or Grandpa Galloway to help me through a trying time. While I am grateful for these tender mercies, I can’t help but be selfish and wish they were still here to help me in person, not just in my memories.
After Kate and I arrived at the apartment we ordered pizza and just talked. Not about anything special, at least that I remember, we were just there. Finally, crawling into bed around midnight or so, we talked for a while before I dropped off into a disturbed sleep. Just before 5 am I woke with a jolt…..not often do I dream about Neil Patrick Harris (who was called Uncle Doog in dreamland) and Blanche Deveraux……but after surfacing I realized that my friend wasn’t in bed, she wasn’t able to sleep and had moved to the couch. So we sat and talked some more; about life and death and all things in-between. I don’t think she ever fell back asleep though I got about 10 more minutes before I had to get ready for work.
Parts of that early morning conversation have stuck with me through out my day. For part of the conversation I spoke of Courtney and Kim and things that I share with very few people. I have learned to recite the events of that time without emotion but last night I was unable to do so. It irritates me that I couldn’t keep my emotions in check, but even now my eyes tear as I think about Courtney. Her birthday is in just over 3 weeks. She would have been 28. In my head I can see her married to a good man, not someone who could turn heads but someone who was good like she was, with a whole passel of kids.
It has been 17 and a half years since that horrible day in August which changed the lives of every member of my family. If my heart still hurts this much, I can’t even fathom how my step dad and siblings feel. The cliché’s say that it gets better but it doesn’t. You just learn to live with it. You become grateful for the twinge of pain, because that means their life was important. Even after all of these years I can hear Courtney in my head admonishing me when I have done wrong and encouraging me when I need a boost. Others have joined in now and I can hear Auntie Jo or Grandpa Galloway to help me through a trying time. While I am grateful for these tender mercies, I can’t help but be selfish and wish they were still here to help me in person, not just in my memories.
Tuesday, February 19
Glitter is the herpies of Craft Supplies....
Sunday night I had dinner with Brett and Boo (Boo makes a great Taco Salad!) There I was introduced me to B-Batteries. Hee hee Hee it makes me chuckle.Hope you enjoy:
FYI: The Rae Rating on this video is PG rating due to use of 4 letter words...
FYI: The Rae Rating on this video is PG rating due to use of 4 letter words...
Monday, February 18
Why I love here.....
There is something comforting about sitting on the National Mall. I haven’t done this in a long time. Since last fall I think, but today is the perfect day for it. It is a balmy 60 degrees and at quarter to 10 in the morning no one else is here. This means that I can handle my conference call and then just sit and enjoy the atmosphere before heading out to meet Boo.
I have been here many times before but every time I come a feeling of contentment settle in my chest. I am home. It is one of the many reasons I moved here 3 years ago. Even when I talk of leaving, my heart aches at the thought of leaving this behind. I am not sure I ever could.
The tourist season that never really ends here is at it's low, it will pick up over the next few months, but for now there is only a smattering of brave souls who have dared be a tourist during an east coast winter hoping that the weather would be kind. Those lucky few have been rewarded with today. The sun is behind me slowly rising into a clear blue sky. The flags at the base of the Washington Memorial are blowing briskly in the current breeze. Spring is in the air.
Call postponed and now I can people watch before getting back on the metro. People are starting to arrive. This is the reason I like the quiet of the early morning on the mall; before anyone else thinks to be here. Now the metro belches out the masses; locals and tourists, families and couples, Singles and groups of teenagers with a free Monday.
My favorite groups to eavesdrop on are the tourists. Geez they make me laugh. So far I have heard:
Okay, today cannot be wasted, with a quick call to Boo we change plans, out with the movie, in with a carousel ride on the mall! Today is going to be a good day…I can feel it.
Oh my gosh….I found the Secret Garden. Okay, maybe not in reality. There is no lock on the gate; but it is beautiful, even during the winter. While sitting on the mall someone stopped and directed me to the Enid A Haupt garden, tucked behind the castle. I assume she works for the Smithsonian because when explaining she said that Enid “was a woman who had died and left us a bunch of money so we created the garden” With flowers and trees and benches it is a small oasis. I think I have found my new home on the mall.
Alright, Boo will be here soon and I want to find a book on the Haupt Garden. It is time to log off and enjoy myself. I hope everyone else has a wonderful Presidents Day
I have been here many times before but every time I come a feeling of contentment settle in my chest. I am home. It is one of the many reasons I moved here 3 years ago. Even when I talk of leaving, my heart aches at the thought of leaving this behind. I am not sure I ever could.
The tourist season that never really ends here is at it's low, it will pick up over the next few months, but for now there is only a smattering of brave souls who have dared be a tourist during an east coast winter hoping that the weather would be kind. Those lucky few have been rewarded with today. The sun is behind me slowly rising into a clear blue sky. The flags at the base of the Washington Memorial are blowing briskly in the current breeze. Spring is in the air.
Call postponed and now I can people watch before getting back on the metro. People are starting to arrive. This is the reason I like the quiet of the early morning on the mall; before anyone else thinks to be here. Now the metro belches out the masses; locals and tourists, families and couples, Singles and groups of teenagers with a free Monday.
My favorite groups to eavesdrop on are the tourists. Geez they make me laugh. So far I have heard:
“But I thought you wanted to see the museum first?
Honey they are all museums!”
“Maybe we should ask her, she looks like a local, she would know.”
“Stay together, Tyler, I SAID STOP! Stay together”(poor 4 yr old)
“ Yoo Hoo! Yoo Hoo! Everyone over here for a picture.”
“Damn tourists.”
(That was when a family stopped right in front of a man running…he almost bowled over a little girl as the mom called for a picture…Lol!)
Okay, today cannot be wasted, with a quick call to Boo we change plans, out with the movie, in with a carousel ride on the mall! Today is going to be a good day…I can feel it.
Oh my gosh….I found the Secret Garden. Okay, maybe not in reality. There is no lock on the gate; but it is beautiful, even during the winter. While sitting on the mall someone stopped and directed me to the Enid A Haupt garden, tucked behind the castle. I assume she works for the Smithsonian because when explaining she said that Enid “was a woman who had died and left us a bunch of money so we created the garden” With flowers and trees and benches it is a small oasis. I think I have found my new home on the mall.
Alright, Boo will be here soon and I want to find a book on the Haupt Garden. It is time to log off and enjoy myself. I hope everyone else has a wonderful Presidents Day
Thursday, February 14
Another year...
Last year I posted a poem for Valentine's day....I have decided to continue the tradition.
There are many that I have thought to post; this or that or even the one that made me chuckle. Instead I have chosen one that is a bit more serious. It is well known and has no need of an introduction.
Someday, I shall love someone in such a way or, as Aurora once sang, "I'm wishing......"
Happy Valentine's Day every one!
There are many that I have thought to post; this or that or even the one that made me chuckle. Instead I have chosen one that is a bit more serious. It is well known and has no need of an introduction.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's
Most quiet need; by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, - I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! - and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
~Elizabeth Barrett Browning~
Someday, I shall love someone in such a way or, as Aurora once sang, "I'm wishing......"
Happy Valentine's Day every one!
Tuesday, February 12
I am a Magnate and I have a manor....
Ya think it's me?
Magnate's Manor
 | |
Build YOUR Dream Home! |
Thanks Darla!
Monday, February 11
Clothing of note...........
In the last 24 hours two clothing related incidents have happened that are noteworthy.
The first and more important....I got my T-shirt for my trip in Sept. This is the 1st of 2 maybe 3 or 4 that we will be wearing! I am way excited!
The second incident actually happened yesterday....It wasn't until I was in the middle of Sunday School that i realized I was wearing an Olive Green skirt with my Royal Blue Sweater.Only I would wake in the morning and think those two colors should be worn together. In my search for reassurance that it wasn't a major faux pas I asked 2 separate people if the colors should be worn together. Their responses:
"No! Lord NO!"
"If you are blind."
Sigh...my sense of fashion is obviously not getting better with age. :P
The first and more important....I got my T-shirt for my trip in Sept. This is the 1st of 2 maybe 3 or 4 that we will be wearing! I am way excited!
The second incident actually happened yesterday....It wasn't until I was in the middle of Sunday School that i realized I was wearing an Olive Green skirt with my Royal Blue Sweater.Only I would wake in the morning and think those two colors should be worn together. In my search for reassurance that it wasn't a major faux pas I asked 2 separate people if the colors should be worn together. Their responses:"No! Lord NO!"
"If you are blind."
Sigh...my sense of fashion is obviously not getting better with age. :P
Thursday, February 7
Last night's epiphany.....
Many a time in conversation I say something before thinking it through all the way. Usually what is said is my knee jerk reaction, my first thought to a comment, or a personal epiphany or sorts. Lol! This is one of the many reasons I don’t like to talk when I am around new people, who knows what will come out of my mouth. :P Often this first thought can be altered as new information is brought into the discussion (but that is a topic for an entirely different discussion).
Last night, in the midst of one such conversation with my friend Angelee, I said something that has stuck with me. You would think that something that I said, would not strike me as profound. You would think that I would know these things before I say them. The conversation was actually about my younger brother in the mission field. I commented on the emails that are forwarded to our family members. I have spent the last year and a half reading his emails and watching his growth. I have also watched one side of his relationship with his waiting girlfriend. He is allowed such a short time on the internet each week that he sends one email to my parents that includes the responses to everyone, including his girlfriend. Reading these emails is kind of like listening to one side of a phone conversation. While I feel slightly voyeuristic I have been impressed with the communications that have been sent. So how did this cause an ‘AHA’ moment, you ask? Sorry Steph, but it isn’t that I have realized that I have voyeuristic tendencies. Lol! My epiphany for yesterday was that one of the reasons I have such a high relationship expectations is because I have been watching the relationships of my siblings for years. I am constantly amazed by my siblings, by the good and the bad.
As a 28 yr old single woman in the Mormon Church, I have had a lot of time to think about relationships. What woman in my circumstances hasn’t? I freely admit that relationships scare me; truly, they terrify me. Yes, I also recognize that this is not a logical response. Lol! I have had the opportunity to watch those around me and I have seen a lot of the bad things that can come from relationships. Sometimes it seems as if it is all bad. But I have also had the chance to see really great relationships like Mama and Papa Thorne and Mama and Papa Harbour. More importantly I have the examples of men like my brothers Kent, Ralph and Hugh to show me that men in relationships can be good in more then just fiction novels. :)
I know this isn’t profound to any one else, but I think it is important for me to recognize that I have the examples there. Now I just have to find a man like my brothers….Since they are each quite unique I am not sure that is a possibility. Lol!
Last night, in the midst of one such conversation with my friend Angelee, I said something that has stuck with me. You would think that something that I said, would not strike me as profound. You would think that I would know these things before I say them. The conversation was actually about my younger brother in the mission field. I commented on the emails that are forwarded to our family members. I have spent the last year and a half reading his emails and watching his growth. I have also watched one side of his relationship with his waiting girlfriend. He is allowed such a short time on the internet each week that he sends one email to my parents that includes the responses to everyone, including his girlfriend. Reading these emails is kind of like listening to one side of a phone conversation. While I feel slightly voyeuristic I have been impressed with the communications that have been sent. So how did this cause an ‘AHA’ moment, you ask? Sorry Steph, but it isn’t that I have realized that I have voyeuristic tendencies. Lol! My epiphany for yesterday was that one of the reasons I have such a high relationship expectations is because I have been watching the relationships of my siblings for years. I am constantly amazed by my siblings, by the good and the bad.
As a 28 yr old single woman in the Mormon Church, I have had a lot of time to think about relationships. What woman in my circumstances hasn’t? I freely admit that relationships scare me; truly, they terrify me. Yes, I also recognize that this is not a logical response. Lol! I have had the opportunity to watch those around me and I have seen a lot of the bad things that can come from relationships. Sometimes it seems as if it is all bad. But I have also had the chance to see really great relationships like Mama and Papa Thorne and Mama and Papa Harbour. More importantly I have the examples of men like my brothers Kent, Ralph and Hugh to show me that men in relationships can be good in more then just fiction novels. :)
I know this isn’t profound to any one else, but I think it is important for me to recognize that I have the examples there. Now I just have to find a man like my brothers….Since they are each quite unique I am not sure that is a possibility. Lol!
Wednesday, February 6
Apparently the Universe Agrees....
*Language Warning*
So I needed to do a bit of research...don't ask because I won't tell. Lol! but this is what I found out:
| You Are Catwoman |
 "Life's a bitch. Now so am I." |
AND........
The Great Archives determine you to have gone by the identity:
Musette de Pompadour
Musette de Pompadour
Known in some parts of the world as:
Bitch of Austria
Bitch of Austria
The Great Archives Record:
This one returned to revenge the death of its children. Stay away, it is vicious.
So apparently the universe understands that I am not one who should be messed with. Lol!
Do you agree?
Tuesday, February 5
It's February.......
I plan to post some pictures and other thoughts from this weekend, but not yet.
Instead I found this on my Friend Jeremy’s LJ and I wanted to do it. So here goes:
Step 1: Put iTunes on random.
Step 2: Post the first line from the first 25 songs that play, no matter how embarrassing.
(You can skip songs that are instrumental).
Step 3: Strike out the songs when someone guesses correctly.
(Of course, my first song was an instrumental. Lol! )
1. Let us turn our thoughts today to Martin Luther King
2. There is no future, there is no past.
3. You get high jacked waiting at a bus stop
4. The race is on to get out of the bottom
5. Your eyes tell me how you want me
6. Lost my job came home mad
7. Don’t know how to take it, don’t know where to go
8. I have a picture, pinned to my wall, an image of you and of me and we’re laughing we’re loving it all.
9. All the leaves are brown and the sky is grey……..
10. Oh, oh, oh ,oh Woke up today feeling the way I always do…
11. Hope they never end this song, this could take us all night long
12. Dim all the lights sweet darling cause tonight it’s all the way
13. Monday morning such a rush, here it is again sneaking up on us
14. Oh Baby don’t you know I suffer?
15. Gentleman our benefactor on this Christmas Day, whose charity is only matched by talent I must say…..
16. Who made the rule that I should always play the fool
17. Fly away with me tonight, take me on a one way flight in your lovin’ arms and everythings gonna be alright
18. My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye? To have the kingdom, baby, tell me why?
19. O Mio Babbino Caro Mi piace è bello, bello
a. (In English) O My dearest Daddy, He is pleasing to me and so handsome
20. That old wind that’s whippin’ out there; it’s whistling your tune
21. Your Cruel device, your blood like ice, one look could kill, my pain your thrill
22. Gone, the voice that used to fill the room is all but gone, an echo of a perfect love that ended wrong.
23. Got off the plane to the country side
24. How did we get here…How the Hell…
25. I had all but given up on finding the one that I could fall into
Instead I found this on my Friend Jeremy’s LJ and I wanted to do it. So here goes:
Step 1: Put iTunes on random.
Step 2: Post the first line from the first 25 songs that play, no matter how embarrassing.
(You can skip songs that are instrumental).
Step 3: Strike out the songs when someone guesses correctly.
(Of course, my first song was an instrumental. Lol! )
1. Let us turn our thoughts today to Martin Luther King
2. There is no future, there is no past.
3. You get high jacked waiting at a bus stop
4. The race is on to get out of the bottom
5. Your eyes tell me how you want me
6. Lost my job came home mad
7. Don’t know how to take it, don’t know where to go
8. I have a picture, pinned to my wall, an image of you and of me and we’re laughing we’re loving it all.
9. All the leaves are brown and the sky is grey……..
10. Oh, oh, oh ,oh Woke up today feeling the way I always do…
11. Hope they never end this song, this could take us all night long
12. Dim all the lights sweet darling cause tonight it’s all the way
13. Monday morning such a rush, here it is again sneaking up on us
14. Oh Baby don’t you know I suffer?
15. Gentleman our benefactor on this Christmas Day, whose charity is only matched by talent I must say…..
16. Who made the rule that I should always play the fool
17. Fly away with me tonight, take me on a one way flight in your lovin’ arms and everythings gonna be alright
18. My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye? To have the kingdom, baby, tell me why?
19. O Mio Babbino Caro Mi piace è bello, bello
a. (In English) O My dearest Daddy, He is pleasing to me and so handsome
20. That old wind that’s whippin’ out there; it’s whistling your tune
21. Your Cruel device, your blood like ice, one look could kill, my pain your thrill
22. Gone, the voice that used to fill the room is all but gone, an echo of a perfect love that ended wrong.
23. Got off the plane to the country side
24. How did we get here…How the Hell…
25. I had all but given up on finding the one that I could fall into
Thursday, January 31
What I wish my world looked like......
So there is a lot going on today. At least, Not much I want to talk about in a public forum such as this.
But I did find this in my inbox today. So I thought I would share.
If I had my way, all my libraries would look like the ones in Kansas and Missouri!!
But I did find this in my inbox today. So I thought I would share.
If I had my way, all my libraries would look like the ones in Kansas and Missouri!!
Sunday, January 27
It is the end of an era.............
8 years ago at the end of a summer temple trip in Salt Lake, my church group had a chance meeting with our beloved Prophet. Pres Hinckley was just leaving the temple as we were finishing and took the time to greet each of us and talk to our group for just a moment. It is one of my favorite memories. One I hope to share with my grandkids one day...the day I got a hug from the Prophet of our church.
Tonight, that beloved man passed from this life into the next. While it was not quite unexpected, he was 97 after all, it is still a shock to the system.
I know that things have a purpose and a reason. That things will go forward. There will be a new Prophet called; the Lord's work will progress. But for now the members of the LDS faith will mourn the passing of this great man. My heart aches at the thought of Pres Hinckley not being the prophet. This man that has played such a role in my life and faith, he was the prophet when I graduated high school, he was the prophet when I went on my mission. I have been listening to his words of wisdom and allowing them to guide me through the difficult decisions of my 20's.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his remaining family.
But regardless of the sorrow, my main thoughts are centered on the fact that he is now reunited with those he has lost so recently. Especially the reunion with his sweetheart, Sister Marjorie Hinckley. What better joy can be found in the thought of their reunion.
Tonight, that beloved man passed from this life into the next. While it was not quite unexpected, he was 97 after all, it is still a shock to the system.
I know that things have a purpose and a reason. That things will go forward. There will be a new Prophet called; the Lord's work will progress. But for now the members of the LDS faith will mourn the passing of this great man. My heart aches at the thought of Pres Hinckley not being the prophet. This man that has played such a role in my life and faith, he was the prophet when I graduated high school, he was the prophet when I went on my mission. I have been listening to his words of wisdom and allowing them to guide me through the difficult decisions of my 20's.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his remaining family.
But regardless of the sorrow, my main thoughts are centered on the fact that he is now reunited with those he has lost so recently. Especially the reunion with his sweetheart, Sister Marjorie Hinckley. What better joy can be found in the thought of their reunion.
Thursday, January 24
So here ends another day at the office.....
Today is Tiana’s birthday…..
It is the big _ _!!! (I can’t actually give out her age on the web. I wouldn’t want her to hurt me. )
This is my big sister…
One of the few people who actually understand what our childhood was like because she lived it with me. Lol!
She understands the draw of Virginia….even if she did transfer her allegiance to Texas, she started here. Lol!
She is the one who I can call and talk to…..about anything. Good and bad.
On to the GREAT news……
Today is Tiana’s birthday…..
It is the big _ _!!! (I can’t actually give out her age on the web. I wouldn’t want her to hurt me. )
This is my big sister…
One of the few people who actually understand what our childhood was like because she lived it with me. Lol!
She understands the draw of Virginia….even if she did transfer her allegiance to Texas, she started here. Lol!
She is the one who I can call and talk to…..about anything. Good and bad.
Happy Birthday Sis! I hope it is a great one! You deserve all the happiness that can possibly come your way!
Tuesday, January 22
I don’t feel good…
I know, I know I say that all the time. But really...
My face is flushed.
My eyes burn.
My nose is running.
I’m tired (when aren’t I?).
I can’t settle or focus.
Worst of all:
I am cranky!
I hate when I am cranky. I feel like a 4 year old. Small things irritate me and I want to close the door and tell everyone to go away.
It is a sign…I need to be sent to my room for awhile. Unfortunately that is only the punishment for children. Adult punishment is not being able to go to your room. Lol!
Only 6 more hours of the work day and I can go home and hide for the night.
*End Rant*
My face is flushed.
My eyes burn.
My nose is running.
I’m tired (when aren’t I?).
I can’t settle or focus.
Worst of all:
I am cranky!
I hate when I am cranky. I feel like a 4 year old. Small things irritate me and I want to close the door and tell everyone to go away.
It is a sign…I need to be sent to my room for awhile. Unfortunately that is only the punishment for children. Adult punishment is not being able to go to your room. Lol!
Only 6 more hours of the work day and I can go home and hide for the night.
*End Rant*
Do I know me?
| What Rachel Means |
 You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily. You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind. A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable. You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out. Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia. Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow. You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily. Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is. |
I don't think these people know me very well.....on the other hand....maybe I don't know me very well. Food for thought.....
Sunday, January 20
Sunday Night Rambling.....
My best friend of all time (whom shall remain nameless to protect innocent bloggers) made comments recently about “issues”. Everyone has issues, I don’t care who you are; you have issues about something. But I think sometimes we feel that we shouldn’t have issues. We get bogged down in the thought that we are so blessed with: ________, we shouldn’t ever be sad, angry, or upset. Fill in the blank with whatever your blessings include: husband, kids, family, friends, religion, food, job, etc….The list can go on forever. I think many people feel this way, me included. Why should we burden others with our insignificant troubles when there is so much to be thankful for? When the Lord has blessed us with so much, what right do we have to complain about anything? There are many problems with this thinking including:
Conversely, we aren’t supposed to wallow in self pity or grief 100% of the time either. Our emotions run the gamut for a reason. God wouldn’t have given us the ability to feel all of these things without a purpose. We are to use them for the betterment of ourselves. We are to recognize the sad and the bad and find ways to make it better. Sometimes we can do that on our own, sometimes we need to lean on a friend, and sometimes we need a professional. As long as we keep finding ways to fix the upsetting things our life will continue to get better.
Just in case you were wondering……I have issues….welcome to the club! ;)
- Just because we are blessed doesn’t mean that the bad stuff stops happening. There is opposition in all things for a reason.
- Why should we think that because we get one blessing the Lord will stop offering us others? Unfortunately, some of those blessings are a direct result of sad or upsetting things. Learning from our trials and the trials of those around us is a great blessing.
- Recognizing the worth of our blessings usually comes at the end of the pride cycle that is human nature. We don’t become humble until after the trials. That humility brings us to a remembrance of our God and His goodness. Why do we think that we could recognize the goodness of our life with out the bad? Again, there is opposition in all things for a reason.
- The Lord knew that we couldn’t handle everything on our own. There wasn’t just one person made in the Garden of Eden but two. He knew that sometimes the burden would get tough and we would need help. Not all of us are blessed with a spouse that can support us in our trials but God blesses us with friends and family that we can turn to. How can we learn from others and serve them if they won’t share their burdens. How can we continue to progress if we do not let others do the same for us in return?
Conversely, we aren’t supposed to wallow in self pity or grief 100% of the time either. Our emotions run the gamut for a reason. God wouldn’t have given us the ability to feel all of these things without a purpose. We are to use them for the betterment of ourselves. We are to recognize the sad and the bad and find ways to make it better. Sometimes we can do that on our own, sometimes we need to lean on a friend, and sometimes we need a professional. As long as we keep finding ways to fix the upsetting things our life will continue to get better.
Just in case you were wondering……I have issues….welcome to the club! ;)
Friday, January 18
A Vacation in January
There were the sounds of seagulls over my head as I walked to the metro this morning. At first I thought it was part of the song I was listening to but that didn't fit. A quick look found the scavengers above me.
As I stood in the freezing January cold, I was transported back 2 years. To a beach in North Carolina. I could feel the warm breeze against my face and smell the ocean. In my minds eye I could see the hammock that swung on the porch and hear the waves that crashed on the beach.
It lasted no more then a second or 2 but in that instant I was on vacation.
As I stood in the freezing January cold, I was transported back 2 years. To a beach in North Carolina. I could feel the warm breeze against my face and smell the ocean. In my minds eye I could see the hammock that swung on the porch and hear the waves that crashed on the beach.
It lasted no more then a second or 2 but in that instant I was on vacation.
Thursday, January 17
What is in my brain.....
I love my IT dept….. Not only will he (as our IT dept is made up of 2 people and I am always asking the same guy for help) answer the stupid questions and random computer problems I seem to have on a daily basis but he can also fix my iPod! I love IT guys!!
I love the snow…would anyone mind if I moved to Montana. They have lots of snow there. Or maybe Maine; the accents are better there.
I love vegetables…..since it is snowing lunch is being delivered…my lunch a pita with cucumbers, tomatoes, hummus, sprouts, mushrooms, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Sigh. I am starving.
I love musicals……Even when I hate the blocking, and the lead actress loses her accent when she is singing. It is still great to have a chance to go to the theater. (Is there a theater in Montana? Maine?)
I love audiobooks……I now have the Twilight series on my iPod! How cool is that?
And that is all for now….hope everyone is enjoying the snow as much as I am.
I love the snow…would anyone mind if I moved to Montana. They have lots of snow there. Or maybe Maine; the accents are better there.I love vegetables…..since it is snowing lunch is being delivered…my lunch a pita with cucumbers, tomatoes, hummus, sprouts, mushrooms, spinach, and mozzarella cheese. Sigh. I am starving.
I love musicals……Even when I hate the blocking, and the lead actress loses her accent when she is singing. It is still great to have a chance to go to the theater. (Is there a theater in Montana? Maine?)
I love audiobooks……I now have the Twilight series on my iPod! How cool is that?
And that is all for now….hope everyone is enjoying the snow as much as I am.
Friday, January 11
Surronded by Memories
You know that box you keep in the bottom of your closet? The box that gets moved from house to house, but is never really unpacked. Every now and then something is added to it but you don’t ever empty it. Today I unpacked it. I don’t really have a choice. The box holding my memories has gotten to the point where it is falling apart. It had to be unloaded, sorted through and repacked in a smaller box. But what do I get rid of? How did I forget so many moments? How can I get rid of it, knowing that if I do the memory will end up lost in my brain never to be recovered again? There were operas, festivals and baseball games. There was the Chinese New Year celebration, hockey games, work events, weddings, and all sorts of trips that were taken. A few hiking, a few rafting, and at least one tubing trip.
It is interesting that, I am going through this box today. It is January 11th. On this day 17 years ago my mother married my step-father and the chaos that has become my family was begun. Just 3 short years ago on this day I moved to the East coast with no more then 3 suitcases, 2 carry-on’s and not a friend in site. Ironically, it is also the day that Boo moved out here.
Who knew that there would be so many memories to create; so many possibilities available to me.
So…Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad…congrats!
AND
Happy Anniversary R.A.G.S. Here’s to another 3 great years.
It is interesting that, I am going through this box today. It is January 11th. On this day 17 years ago my mother married my step-father and the chaos that has become my family was begun. Just 3 short years ago on this day I moved to the East coast with no more then 3 suitcases, 2 carry-on’s and not a friend in site. Ironically, it is also the day that Boo moved out here.
Who knew that there would be so many memories to create; so many possibilities available to me.
So…Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad…congrats!
AND
Happy Anniversary R.A.G.S. Here’s to another 3 great years.
Monday, January 7
Ill....
I had a much different plan for my day yesterday. There was to be church, and friends and dinner, and planning for my weeks upcoming meetings.
Instead there were dry heaves, crying, phone calls to Kate, lots of Apple juice, Gatorade, and the ABC family channel. I hate to be sick. I am not a good patient. I get weepy, shaky, and cranky. I hate not knowing what to do. Worst of all, I detest not being able to take care of everything myself.
Thank heavens it was just a 24 hour type thing and the only residual effects are slight weakness and a tender stomach.
A huge thank you to Kate who, in my hour of need, hit up her mom the nurse for info and then went out and bought the groceries needed for the prescribed all liquid diet.
I would also like to thank Richard and my big sister Tiana for all of the phone support yesterday. It was really nice, even if I did cut most of your calls short so I could throw up.
Happy Monday...UGH!
Instead there were dry heaves, crying, phone calls to Kate, lots of Apple juice, Gatorade, and the ABC family channel. I hate to be sick. I am not a good patient. I get weepy, shaky, and cranky. I hate not knowing what to do. Worst of all, I detest not being able to take care of everything myself.
Thank heavens it was just a 24 hour type thing and the only residual effects are slight weakness and a tender stomach.
A huge thank you to Kate who, in my hour of need, hit up her mom the nurse for info and then went out and bought the groceries needed for the prescribed all liquid diet.
I would also like to thank Richard and my big sister Tiana for all of the phone support yesterday. It was really nice, even if I did cut most of your calls short so I could throw up.
Happy Monday...UGH!
Friday, January 4
It has been a week......I seem to still be suffering from the desire to be anti social. I am on my 6th book of the New Year., but it seems to be a bit heavy for tonight. I'll have to try something a little lighter. To top it off I seem to be suffering from bloggers block.
I am sure I'll be back in to the swing of things soon. Then I will blog about New Years Eve, my resolutions and everything else that is going on.
I am sure I'll be back in to the swing of things soon. Then I will blog about New Years Eve, my resolutions and everything else that is going on.
Saturday, December 29
I've gone dark side of the moon......
Do you remember those days back when you were in high school? You know Christmas or summer vacation would start and you would spend some time with no one else but your books. You would hole up in you room eating only when your hunger and a good stopping place coincided?
What you don’t remember those days…..whoops…..I guess I am again admitting that I am a geek.
Not to worry everyone…I am almost finished with the current series. I am on the last book…which I have never read before. So if I am not answering your calls or returning email or text it is not because I hate you or am ignoring you. I am just sunk in the world of Navy Seals, FBI, police detectives, terrorists, and serial killers. Good thing the good guys always win in the books, right? If only it happened in real life too.
I promise to surface before I have to be at work on Monday but don’t expect me before then. Long live the good guys fighting for our freedom. (Darn….the acknowledgements to these books get me every time. Lol!)
P.S. If you have sent me a message; I promise to listen to it when I return to the land of the living and not a second sooner. This was just to let everyone know I am still alive.
What you don’t remember those days…..whoops…..I guess I am again admitting that I am a geek.
Not to worry everyone…I am almost finished with the current series. I am on the last book…which I have never read before. So if I am not answering your calls or returning email or text it is not because I hate you or am ignoring you. I am just sunk in the world of Navy Seals, FBI, police detectives, terrorists, and serial killers. Good thing the good guys always win in the books, right? If only it happened in real life too.
I promise to surface before I have to be at work on Monday but don’t expect me before then. Long live the good guys fighting for our freedom. (Darn….the acknowledgements to these books get me every time. Lol!)
P.S. If you have sent me a message; I promise to listen to it when I return to the land of the living and not a second sooner. This was just to let everyone know I am still alive.
Friday, December 28
2007 Recap:
Well another Year has passed and I thought I would re cap the same way I had last year….. Make my life easier. Lol!
JANUARY
1. Where were you on New Years Eve?
I had to check of course, but now I remember the New Years Eve party at Paul and Ellen’s. It was quite fun and definitely interesting.
2. Did you have a new year's resolution this year?
Who doesn’t….they all failed miserably…but that won’t stop me from making new ones.
3. Does it snow where you live?
It should….But it is not! It makes me want to cry.
FEBRUARY
1. Who was your Valentine?
I couldn’t find one written about on any of my blogs… I can think of a few crushes. But there wasn’t a valentine that I can remember. Again.
2. Do you care if the groundhog sees its shadow or not?
Am I supposed to? Never really thought about the poor rodent!
MARCH
1. Are you Irish?
I believe there is a trace of the Irish in the mutt blood that I have.
2. Do you wear green on St. Patty's Day?
Always! It is my favorite holiday.
3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day in 2007?
I have no idea. Did I do anything? Anyone?
4. Are you happy when winter is over?
Yes and No. I love winter but there is something about being able to walk with out the biting wind or sleet.
APRIL
1. Do you like the rain?
I love the Rain!!!
2. Did you play an April fool's joke on anyone this year?
I never got in to April Fool’s jokes…I feel bad when I make someone else feel silly.
3. Do you get tons of candy on Easter?
Not tons…but I believe there was Easter candy consumed this year. I did get this really cute bucket from this girl that was visiting from England…what was her name? She was a doll….hmmm. I’ll have to ask Gina.
4. Do you celebrate 4/20?
No
5. Do you love the month of April?
Yes! Usually……..maybe……..I don’t know. I think so.
MAY
1. What's your favorite kind of flower?
I love the Forget-me-nots. But I also love Lilacs…so much so that my mother planted them in our yard just for me!
3. Finish the phrase "April showers":
bring May flowers. What do Mayflowers bring? PILGRIMS!
4. What is the first color you think of when you think of Spring?
forget me not blue….pastel Green….
JUNE
1. What year do/did you graduate from High School?
1997.
2. Anything special happen to you in June?
I got roses for my birthday. That was huge for me. I mean…I haven’t received flowers since I was 19…I probably won’t receive them again until my late thirties. Lol! I also got to see the Riverdance perfomace and Wolf Trap. That was pretty cool. Special? Maybe…but still pretty cool.
JULY
1. What did you do on the Fourth of July?
I was in the Fourth of July parade in DC. I helped hold Cheer Bear! Way cool!! Then I slept. Lol!
2. Did you go on any vacations during this month?
My sister got married so I went home for a visit. Not quite sure it could be considered a vacation but it was nice to see everyone
AUGUST
1. Did you do anything special at the end of your summer?
I went to a church campout. It was fun.
2. What was your favorite summer memory of '06?
I think the wedding has some fun memories and the parade was definitely fun, and the birthday parties that ran rampant this year were fun.
3. Did you have a sunburn?
Yes…me and the DMV are still not friends
4. Do you go to the beach a lot?
Not once. I know I am still a little sad about that. Maybe next year. *Sigh*
SEPTEMBER
1. Did you attend college in 06?
No. I am still wishing!
2. Do you like fall better than summer?
I love the fall as much as I love the spring…Summer is probably my least favorite season, though I still like it.
OCTOBER
1. What was your favorite Halloween costume?
I still didn’t dress up this year but there were a bunch of adorable kids that came to the house this year. It was great!
2. What's your favorite candy?
I love Candy Corn.
3. What did you dress up as this year?
I didn’t….
4. Carve a pumpkin this year?
No but Jen did…of a vampire biting a girl’s neck. Which lead to a rather embarrassing moment for one of the girls when she described it as a man eating a woman…she learned something new that day. Lol!
NOVEMBER
1. Whose house do you go to for Thanksgiving?
I went to the Hinkson Family Reunion this year. $0 odd people at the church and then Grandma Hinkson’s house for Pie!
2. Do you love stuffing?
I love Stuffing! It goes with Mash Potatoes and Gravy! Oh I miss those foods. I wonder if I could make them on my own with out ruining them? Hmmmm…..
3. What are you thankful for?
Peace of Mind, Family, Good Friends, and so many other things….but mostly the people in my life, they have such an impact!
DECEMBER
1. Do you celebrate Christmas?
Yeah, this year it was subdued but very enjoyable with the Taylor family.
2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe?
Not that I remember. Would be nice to have happen….Anyone know when Jacob from Twilight will be standing under some Mistletoe?
3. Get anything special ?
I am calling it the year of food…almost every thing I got is attached to food some how. I look forward to filling my recipe book with recipes.
4. What did you want this year?
Well, you know….I am pretty happy with the way things turned out.
5. Do you like cold weather?
YES! I love the snow…It would figure that the one year I didn’t go home they would get the kind of snow we haven’t seen in years. *Sigh* that’s it. I am moving to Alaska!
And that is my year in review now all I have to do is figure out my new years resolutions……
JANUARY
1. Where were you on New Years Eve?
I had to check of course, but now I remember the New Years Eve party at Paul and Ellen’s. It was quite fun and definitely interesting.
2. Did you have a new year's resolution this year?
Who doesn’t….they all failed miserably…but that won’t stop me from making new ones.
3. Does it snow where you live?
It should….But it is not! It makes me want to cry.
FEBRUARY
1. Who was your Valentine?
I couldn’t find one written about on any of my blogs… I can think of a few crushes. But there wasn’t a valentine that I can remember. Again.
2. Do you care if the groundhog sees its shadow or not?
Am I supposed to? Never really thought about the poor rodent!
MARCH
1. Are you Irish?
I believe there is a trace of the Irish in the mutt blood that I have.
2. Do you wear green on St. Patty's Day?
Always! It is my favorite holiday.
3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day in 2007?
I have no idea. Did I do anything? Anyone?
4. Are you happy when winter is over?
Yes and No. I love winter but there is something about being able to walk with out the biting wind or sleet.
APRIL
1. Do you like the rain?
I love the Rain!!!
2. Did you play an April fool's joke on anyone this year?
I never got in to April Fool’s jokes…I feel bad when I make someone else feel silly.
3. Do you get tons of candy on Easter?
Not tons…but I believe there was Easter candy consumed this year. I did get this really cute bucket from this girl that was visiting from England…what was her name? She was a doll….hmmm. I’ll have to ask Gina.
4. Do you celebrate 4/20?
No
5. Do you love the month of April?
Yes! Usually……..maybe……..I don’t know. I think so.
MAY
1. What's your favorite kind of flower?
I love the Forget-me-nots. But I also love Lilacs…so much so that my mother planted them in our yard just for me!
3. Finish the phrase "April showers":
bring May flowers. What do Mayflowers bring? PILGRIMS!
4. What is the first color you think of when you think of Spring?
forget me not blue….pastel Green….
JUNE
1. What year do/did you graduate from High School?
1997.
2. Anything special happen to you in June?
I got roses for my birthday. That was huge for me. I mean…I haven’t received flowers since I was 19…I probably won’t receive them again until my late thirties. Lol! I also got to see the Riverdance perfomace and Wolf Trap. That was pretty cool. Special? Maybe…but still pretty cool.
JULY
1. What did you do on the Fourth of July?
I was in the Fourth of July parade in DC. I helped hold Cheer Bear! Way cool!! Then I slept. Lol!
2. Did you go on any vacations during this month?
My sister got married so I went home for a visit. Not quite sure it could be considered a vacation but it was nice to see everyone
AUGUST
1. Did you do anything special at the end of your summer?
I went to a church campout. It was fun.
2. What was your favorite summer memory of '06?
I think the wedding has some fun memories and the parade was definitely fun, and the birthday parties that ran rampant this year were fun.
3. Did you have a sunburn?
Yes…me and the DMV are still not friends
4. Do you go to the beach a lot?
Not once. I know I am still a little sad about that. Maybe next year. *Sigh*
SEPTEMBER
1. Did you attend college in 06?
No. I am still wishing!
2. Do you like fall better than summer?
I love the fall as much as I love the spring…Summer is probably my least favorite season, though I still like it.
OCTOBER
1. What was your favorite Halloween costume?
I still didn’t dress up this year but there were a bunch of adorable kids that came to the house this year. It was great!
2. What's your favorite candy?
I love Candy Corn.
3. What did you dress up as this year?
I didn’t….
4. Carve a pumpkin this year?
No but Jen did…of a vampire biting a girl’s neck. Which lead to a rather embarrassing moment for one of the girls when she described it as a man eating a woman…she learned something new that day. Lol!
NOVEMBER
1. Whose house do you go to for Thanksgiving?
I went to the Hinkson Family Reunion this year. $0 odd people at the church and then Grandma Hinkson’s house for Pie!
2. Do you love stuffing?
I love Stuffing! It goes with Mash Potatoes and Gravy! Oh I miss those foods. I wonder if I could make them on my own with out ruining them? Hmmmm…..
3. What are you thankful for?
Peace of Mind, Family, Good Friends, and so many other things….but mostly the people in my life, they have such an impact!
DECEMBER
1. Do you celebrate Christmas?
Yeah, this year it was subdued but very enjoyable with the Taylor family.
2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe?
Not that I remember. Would be nice to have happen….Anyone know when Jacob from Twilight will be standing under some Mistletoe?
3. Get anything special ?
I am calling it the year of food…almost every thing I got is attached to food some how. I look forward to filling my recipe book with recipes.
4. What did you want this year?
Well, you know….I am pretty happy with the way things turned out.
5. Do you like cold weather?
YES! I love the snow…It would figure that the one year I didn’t go home they would get the kind of snow we haven’t seen in years. *Sigh* that’s it. I am moving to Alaska!
And that is my year in review now all I have to do is figure out my new years resolutions……
Thursday, December 27
The 'I'm too lazy to really write anything' update:
- Christmas with the Taylors......Always fun!
- Juno with Kate....interesting.
- 4 books read...got to love them Navy Seal stories....lol!
- Touring the White House.....E cracks me up...I remember why I like to hang out with her.
- German food.......my stomach, not the jury, is still awaiting the verdict. I probably should have stuck with the sausages instead of the pork
Monday, December 24
Happy Merry Christmas Eve!!
This first one is for My Dad...who's favorite song is Pachelbel's Canon. (And Tara..who loves this version...yes they performed it on Sat.)
Christmas Canon Rock:
And this one is is just because I think it is way fun!
Wizards in Winter:
Christmas Canon Rock:
And this one is is just because I think it is way fun!
Wizards in Winter:
Sunday, December 23
2, 104 miles away from my family, surrounded mostly by strangers, I attended church today. This is only the second time I have spent Christmas away from my family. The first time I was a missionary, so it isn’t the same.
These days, everywhere I turn, I am reminded of the fact that I am not with family. No were more forcefully then at this morning’s church services
It has been a while since I have attended a family ward. As always, church is a pleasant experience when surrounded by little children. The Christmas program is beautiful. Kate’s mother is the choir director in this ward and the music is really amazing. Amber and I ooh’ed and ahh’ed over the children’s primary choir. But it is still off to sit through a family ward Christmas program and not recognize the faces of those around me.
In my mind I can see the ward back home. I can see Paul, James, and Luke sitting on the family pew. (We always sit on the right side of the chapel on the shorter benches. It was Mom and Dad’s way of dividing and conquering. They could sit next to each other and yet each kid was with in arms length. Therefore they could reach out and dispense justice any time it was needed. Lol!) Though, now that the boys are older and James and Paul play instruments they might have been tapped to help with the Christmas program….I’ll have to ask them. I can almost hear our choir back home…with the Wilkinsons, The Hepworths, Sister Clayton, Sister Lambert, and the priest quorum (for some reason, ever since I was a kid, all of our priests have been in the choir.)
I wonder what the Bishops remarks will be about. I know the gospel is the same all over the world. I know that the Music program is just as good here(especially with Kate’s Mom handling the program; she has really chosen some amazing pieces for the choir). But it feels different. It doesn’t feel like home.
Uh Oh….looks like it is time for the Bishop here to speak to us. I had better pay attention…….
TSO Live….....
Today we went to where ‘Virginia Meets the World’. The signs said so and so did Kate. Over a month ago my friend Patience suggested a show in Richmond. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra had 2 Saturday shows in our area for their tour. Of course I immediately thought of Kate and we agreed that we should attend with the group going. We didn’t think it through quite as much as we should have. We didn’t think about the traffic heading out of DC on the Saturday before Christmas. Whoops. In my opinion, the extra hour and a half was totally worth it.
We were scheduled to meet Angelee and Mark for dinner at 6. Upon arriving early we decided to walk around a cobblestone street that had this small bookstore (yes, it was my suggestion). Unfortunately, as we were leaving the parking garage I met the pavement up close and personal. Not one of my better moments but a common occurrence. Hopefully, the bruises won't show up for a bit. I don’t want my legs all banged up for church in the morning. Lol! At the bookstore, Kate came upon something she had never seen before. A book titled Naughty or Nice: Christmas Erotica. Who knew there exsisted such a book, apparently the staff at our book store, it was a ‘Staff Pick’. Lol! After killing time we headed to a German/Italian restaurant that our friend Mark had suggested called Acapella. The food and company was great. We even look happy. After 2 cherry cokes, 3 Tylenol and some good food, I almost didn’t feel the pain in my knee and ankle. Lol!
One of the worries that we all shared was dress code for this concert. We knew it was in a college arena, so we figured it would be a closer to a casual attire event and dressed accordingly. When we arrived we saw couples in all sorts of outfits. One lady was even wearing a formal opera cape but with the mix we didn’t stand out. Our seats were actually pretty great. Kate told me our tickets say we weren’t allowed to take pictures but the guards who searched my bag made no comments about my camera so I had fun. Most pictures were of us, I was trying to obey the rules but some of the laser shots were too good to miss. I will post them when I get them down loaded.
The concert was amazing!!! I loved it and more then once I felt bad that I didn’t think to invite my friend Perry the drummer. He would have loved the drum solo in the middle of the concert. It totally rocked.
I am going to close with Quotes from the evening:
K: If you are going to try German food, you should try it someplace like this.
R: What a German/Italian Restaurant?
A: If I can’t date a fun guy, I can’t eat a Fungi.
R: That doesn’t come out sounding like you want it to.
A: Alright then I can’t eat a fungi if I am not going to date a fun guy.
(It doesn’t look as funny as it sounds out loud. With the homonym it sounds deliciously dirty.)
R: I don’t usually consider myself a worldly person, and then I come to a place like this.
A: It's like Tchaikovsky with a twist.
R: Yeah, Tchaikovsky meets a 1980's hair band.
A: “For a minute there, it felt like we were at a rock concert.”
R: “Hon, we are at a rock concert.
K: License and Registration please. (Because of the bright lights)
P: I am beginning to feel as if we are being brainwashed
K: I’m walking in Memphis….
R: Next TSO concert, remember to bring the sunglasses.
M: And your sunscreen.
R: Can you get a sunburn from stage lights?
R: We're here, guess I should put my clothes on.
We were scheduled to meet Angelee and Mark for dinner at 6. Upon arriving early we decided to walk around a cobblestone street that had this small bookstore (yes, it was my suggestion). Unfortunately, as we were leaving the parking garage I met the pavement up close and personal. Not one of my better moments but a common occurrence. Hopefully, the bruises won't show up for a bit. I don’t want my legs all banged up for church in the morning. Lol! At the bookstore, Kate came upon something she had never seen before. A book titled Naughty or Nice: Christmas Erotica. Who knew there exsisted such a book, apparently the staff at our book store, it was a ‘Staff Pick’. Lol! After killing time we headed to a German/Italian restaurant that our friend Mark had suggested called Acapella. The food and company was great. We even look happy. After 2 cherry cokes, 3 Tylenol and some good food, I almost didn’t feel the pain in my knee and ankle. Lol!
One of the worries that we all shared was dress code for this concert. We knew it was in a college arena, so we figured it would be a closer to a casual attire event and dressed accordingly. When we arrived we saw couples in all sorts of outfits. One lady was even wearing a formal opera cape but with the mix we didn’t stand out. Our seats were actually pretty great. Kate told me our tickets say we weren’t allowed to take pictures but the guards who searched my bag made no comments about my camera so I had fun. Most pictures were of us, I was trying to obey the rules but some of the laser shots were too good to miss. I will post them when I get them down loaded.
The concert was amazing!!! I loved it and more then once I felt bad that I didn’t think to invite my friend Perry the drummer. He would have loved the drum solo in the middle of the concert. It totally rocked.
I am going to close with Quotes from the evening:
K: If you are going to try German food, you should try it someplace like this.
R: What a German/Italian Restaurant?
A: If I can’t date a fun guy, I can’t eat a Fungi.
R: That doesn’t come out sounding like you want it to.
A: Alright then I can’t eat a fungi if I am not going to date a fun guy.
(It doesn’t look as funny as it sounds out loud. With the homonym it sounds deliciously dirty.)
R: I don’t usually consider myself a worldly person, and then I come to a place like this.
A: It's like Tchaikovsky with a twist.
R: Yeah, Tchaikovsky meets a 1980's hair band.
A: “For a minute there, it felt like we were at a rock concert.”
R: “Hon, we are at a rock concert.
K: License and Registration please. (Because of the bright lights)
P: I am beginning to feel as if we are being brainwashed
K: I’m walking in Memphis….
R: Next TSO concert, remember to bring the sunglasses.
M: And your sunscreen.
R: Can you get a sunburn from stage lights?
R: We're here, guess I should put my clothes on.
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