Need Motivation

Do you ever just not want to do something that you have already planned to do? Im really wanting to head home from work today, and crawl into bed. But alas, I have dinner plans. I really dont want to be "on." I really just want to watch lame tv shows on hulu. My latest find: "The Secret Life of the American Teen" or something like that. Im sure there are non-Americas somewhere getting a completely horrible view of the "normal" American teen. But it an amusing sitcom. . . . Enter 2010 and all my resolutions! But until then. . . .

Christmas 09

I was able to make it home to Plano, TX for Christmas this year. It was great to be home. My Christmas consisted of: lots of family time, my first white Christmas in Texas, games, games, games, yummy BBQ, delicious Pappadeaux, more games, and we cant forget the year the tree fell . . on my head. Yes, you read right. Just as the last present was being brought from the back of the tree, the tree got knocked off balance. After a few minutes, it came toppling over straight onto me. Lucky, I walked out of there with only a small scratch and goose egg.

I did find the most amazing Christmas Light display ever. I loved seeing the snowflakes in Rockefeller Center in NYC the weekend before. But maybe it was that when we tuned into the radio, the lights were set to Michael Jackson. Check it out at: http://www.gordonlights.com/Videos_2008.asp

Enjoy the Ride

"Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he's been robbed. The fact is that most putts don't drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old time rail journey...delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, & jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas, and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."

~Gordon Hinckley


**Im totally theiving this quote from someones blog. Thanks. It was something that I definitely needed to be reminded of today.

Winter Bloom

I have to thank my old roommates Diana and Kristy for helping me to realize my love of live music, and more importantly local live music. Boston has a great underground music scene, and some amazing venues. Shortly after moving in D & K, they took me to a Brian Webb concert, and I was hooked. Brian is F.A.B.U.L.O.U.S I love his stories he shares between songs; I love the songs; I love the passion; I love the talent. Well, Opening for Brian that first night was Antje Duvekot. And she has became another favorite. She is great. Many journalist have equated her to hearing angels. She has an amazing voice. Some of you might recognize her from her song Merry Go Round that was used in a Bank of America ad.

Antje joined together with Meg Hutchinson (fellow Boston musician), Natalia Zukerman, and Anne Heaton (New York musicians) and did a winter holiday concert and cd. I went into New York City tonight to catch a show at The Living Room. It was a fabulous evening. They did a few holiday (Christmas and Hanuka) songs along with their individual songs. They all have such a different style that it was so fun to hear them all together. As I sat there in the crowd, I was reminded of just how much I love to see, hear, and feel of the passion that comes with seeing local singer/song writers perform. Go. Support the arts in your area.

Winterbloom: Holiday Traditions Rearranged">

Check out some songs from the concert on the myspace page.
One that makes me smile is Thanks for the Roses.


And the song that put Antje on the maps:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXSc0sxg840

Missing

Im really missing the days of waiting at the bus stop with my little buddies.

Putting It on the Table

** A moment of Truth **

Embarrassed that Im even posting this. So, please be nice!

I dont understand or know how to date. Yes, yes: Totally explains why Im 28 y/o and still single; this I do know!

Im just simply amazed that anyone gets married. Honestly. You all are simply heroes to me.

Growing up with brothers, I was always one of the guys. In school, I always had good guy friends. In college, I was quickly the adopted little sister. I thought that I had a good handle on the opposite sex. And I seem to be good at looking at situations that Im not in. I have dished out alot of advice over the years that have proved useful and relevant.

So. Maybe its me. (Totally possible). Or maybe its the guys I interact with. Or maybe its complete unknown forces acting against me. Whatever it is, I hope it gets better or changes in the next little bit! Or else I just might loose my mind.

In the last few years, I have had a few different conversations where I have been talking with a post-crush/interest and found out that that guy liked me too, and that we liked each other at the same time. (Seriously. . . SERIOUSLY!) So, why doesnt something more happen. I know, Im really trying to not whine. Its just that I went out with this guy last night, and had a good time. He was interesting and ambitious, and someone that I would like get to know some more. But Im just such an awkward person and I dont know what to say to relay that. I dont want to come off as head over heels in love with the dude on the first date, especially when Im not. But I do want to let him know that Im interested in another chance at getting to know each other. And I feel like those situations that I try and play it cool, it comes back to me that I was too aggressive. I just dont understand.

Any insight would be helpful. Also, Im totally up for set up too. Hello. Not getting any younger here.

Made Me Stop and Think

In the last few weeks, there were two times that I read something that really resonated with me.

1 - Dont make someone a priority, who makes you an option

2 - You never make a decision when you are on the up hill;

you arent thinking clearly

Those two have stuck with me ever since I heard them. And oh how true they are. Its been an interesting few months for me. I have had some really amazing experiences, and some really tough experiences. Through it all, its been eye opening for me to see those people that have been there and been a friend to me. Asked how I was, offered help or a kind word. It has really made me realize that I might have been in the wrong in the past to put value in a relationship when I was really just an option along. Its hard to come to that realization.

I have made some stupid decisions in my life. And looking back on them, I can a test that they have been made {majoritly, is that a word?!} on the 'up hill.' Call me pathetic, but one that I am so sad about still to this day is my decision to get rid of my Chevy Tahoe. I still miss that truck. She was so good to me. I drove her across the country, in the back country, everywhere. Oh how I miss her. Oh how I regret making that decision on the fly in the up hill journey of stupidity.

Wanna see something cool?!

I took this with an iPod while driving over the Mass Ave Bridge in Boston.

Facebook Status'

I know that Im not the only one that is addicted to facebook. Something about checking out what other people are doing and saying is sort of like watching a train wreck to me. I want to turn away, but Im just so anxious about the next post!

About 70% of the time, I really could care less about what farm animal you have on Farmville, or that you are bored, tired, etc. Around 25% of the time, I feel like I get informational updates. Job and/or moving announcements, excited things that happen in someones day, world events.

That remaining 5% is the part that I wait for. Those updates that bring a smile to my face, and maybe even a chuckle and desire to share with anyone around me.

Im not exactly sure why this one struck my fancy tonight. Maybe it was because I had just been talking about the Mormon Single Dating Scene/World/Life/Plague. . . .

It comes from an old elementary school friend. One that I havent had contact with since about 5th grade except for accepting friendship on Facebook.

Joshua ** found a web site that allows you to find sexual predators

within 25 miles of your house. check it out. www.eharmony.com

-- Please do not relate sexual predators to Single Mormons. That is not the intent of the amusement.

Its about that Time!

One of my many blessings from my father is a fabulous metabolism. Most of you that know me well know that I sorta abuse it. I mean. I eat what ever, when ever I want. I dont work out. I am just me. And because of my lovely, skinny Dad, I can. Well. I know that isnt exactly healthy. And I keep telling myself that once I hit some certain point in the near future, then Im going to start to work out. But I always seem to make excuses for it.

Since my current move took me away from family, and friends, and to an area that has a less built in social circle (aka no singles ward and plethora of single Mormons), I took it as my cue to start working out. I also figured that if its something that I am paying {handsomely} for, then Im more willing/obligated to go. But knowing myself too well in the way that I would go and get on a bike for 10 mins and then do weights half-heartily for another 10 mins, and I would call it good. So I made sure that the gym I signed up for had classes and had convenient locations, and what not.

On Monday I took the plunge, and I am a member of New York Sports Club. I went to my first class tonight. Total Body Conditioning. . . . AHHH. Im already sore. Not looking forward to tomorrow. But Im feeling good about this decision to pay for a gym. I think its going to be good. While I dont know anyone, I still have a place to go for a few hours every week and feel like there is purpose to my evenings. Now I just want to find somewhere I can volunteer. Any suggestions?

Education Conference

I have the opportunity to go to Boston this last weekend. What a fabulous weekend it was. Old friends. A city I love dearly. Amazing weather (ok, minus later Saturday night). What more could a girl ask for.

Elder Ballard was able to make it to the conference. For those in my blogging world that are not of my faith, Elder Ballard is one of the 12 members that makes up the Quorum to the Apostle. He is an 80 y/o man that has devoted years of his life to simply proclaiming the gospel and blessing those that he meets. He is a sweet, tender hearted fellow.

Here is a great article about the weekend: Click Me!

Thanks to all those that made the conference a smashing success. And thank you to all the friends I was able to see and catch up with.

News

I havent been super forth coming on whats going on with me. So here it comes.

I started a new job last week. Its a contractor position, and therefore Im still on the search for a permanent position with benefits. Im working with global marketing team doing email for a hotel chain. Its nice to still be in the travel industry. The office is super quiet and that is taking some adjusting. My co-workers are amazingly nice.

As my position is contract in a not so stable economy, I didnt want to get myself into a lease. And White Plains, NY is alittle too far to commute to from Hartford. So, I found a family to live with from the family ward in the area. It turns out that the house is 10 mins from the office, so nice!. I think its the shortest commute I have ever had. The family is great and younger. 3 little girls, and really nice husband and wife. Its been great so far.

Now that I have a job, I can start to think about traveling again! Yeah. Any suggestions or travel companions?!?!?

Happy Place

&

Or maybe

Its simply at

Out of the Mouths of Babes

Kids keep you on your toes, keep you humble, and keep you laughing. And dinner tonight was just that.

Background. 1) My family loves ice cream. Growing up, Sunday dinners were always roast beef and mashed potatoes, other sides, and then ice cream for desert. James was probably the instigator for it though. Now that he has his own house and family, he probably has a bowl 4x a week. He even claims that ice cream will take away a headache. 2) I have made cookies for the

past two nights. Peanut Blossoms on Monday and then Sugar Cookies last night. Yummy. I must say that those peanut blossoms were amazing.

Tonight at dinner, Jack asked if I could make cookies again. "But they are were just so good." And then James pipes up, "I have no problem with you making them, but we just dont have any more butter." And before he could get out, Ill go to the store or something of that nature, Jack says, "But Dad you have a problem with ice cream" in such a way that it makes James look like he is not admitting to the need to attend an AA meeting for 'the problem.' James sits there for a second stunned and trying to figure out what he meant before he just crack up at the seriousness of Jacks little voice.

At the beginning of the school year, I was with Jack and Melia at the bus stop. Jack loves to go early so that he could get some riding time in. He was zooming up and down the sidewalk, and I was remembering my days of bike riding through the neighborhood. I said to Jack "I would love to go on a bike ride with you someday." Jack stops, looks at me with all sincerity and says "You can probably borrow dads bike, but you have to learn how to ride first. I can help you." I died laughing. How would he know that I do in fact know how to ride a bike!

One to melt my heart: A few weeks ago, I was making dinner. That rarely ever happens. Sorry, I do the laundry and clean the house, keep kids alive, but Im not a big chef. And my brother seems to be fine with that! James had taking the boys to go throw the baseball at the park. I took Melia with me to the grocery store, and then we started making dinner. She loves to help with whatever Im doing. Loading the dishwasher, unloading, cooking. Anything! Arrghh sometimes. Well. This one day, I was letting her stir the pot while I held her. We were waiting for it to boil. She was playing with my ponytail and then pats me on the back and says "You my buddy." And then puts her head on my shoulder. . . Makes leaving hard to do.

Hit Home Today

The lesson in Relief Society (Womens Organization of my church) today really made me think.

True friends ease one another’s sorrows and

remain faithful even in times of adversity.

Its been an interesting few weeks for me. And what has really helped me stay somewhat sane and not depressed (Have you ever been unemployed? Its one of the most depressing things I have been through) is because of my friends. Because of their emails, text messages, chat messages, calls, etc. Its really been my saving grace. And to those that read this, thank you. Thank you for being a friend during the "times of adversity."

But as much as I have been having a hard time, I know that there are others that have also been having a hard time. Do unto others as you would want done unto you. . . . I need to look outside of myself and help others around me, and to be the friend that others are needing.

Following Bliss

And I have the firm belief in this now,

not only in terms of my own experience

but in knowing about the experience of others,

that when you follow your bliss, doors will open where

you would not have thought there were going to be

doors and where there wouldn't be a door

for anybody else.

-Joseph Campbell

Someone shared this quote with me today. The jury is still out for me on it. . . . . Maybe I need to change my expectation of the door I want. And realize the beauty in the door I have been giving. . . . But there is just something about working for the Olympics again that I dont want to give up on.

Looking for Stablity

I was just thinking about how there have been people in my past that could always make the world a better place. And when life didnt seem all it was cracked up to be, they reminded me of what matters. . . . I miss them. Im getting tired of the transient life. People frequently coming and go, or me coming and going. Im thinking Im ready for a real address. One that I can get mailing address printed for, and not be worried that Im wasting money on something that will be useless in a year, or even less. Maybe even a place I could plant some flowers. Or paint walls a color I want.

Just a thought.

Maybe I shouldnt post this last at night! ;)

Dont take non-transient for non-traveling. Just thinking it would be nice to have "my" homecity airport.

Labor Day

Sorry. Alittle late. But I had a fabulous Labor Day Weekend. . . Drove from CT through to Burlington, VT, then took a ferry over to the Adirondack and drove home through NY. It was a great get away.

First time at Ben & Jerry's, surprisingly as I have camped close by for years. Very short tour, good thing it wasnt expensive.

Its almost fall in New England. A few trees were turning. Loved the rural houses and the scenic drives.

The hydrangea bushes were amazing. This is out at Joseph Smiths Birthplace and Memorial.

Boden, My Love!

One of my most vivid memories of when I was little, probably 3rd grade little, is of this new outfit I got. Not exactly sure where we bought it. But I loved it. It was pink and purple stripped shirt an then a pink skirt and purple pants. I remember hanging out in my room laying out these clothes on the floor, alternating between the skirt and pants. Adding in other clothing items as I was putting together the perfect outfit. I even climbed up in my closet to get a birds eye view of what this outfit would look like. I know. I was an odd kid, glad to have grown out of that! ;)

And subsequently, I remember loving to wear that outfit, and remember loving the days that I

wore that outfit. There were days in high school that I remember never wanting to change my clothes because I liked my outfit so much, and therefore staying up really late just to wear those clothes as long as possible.

Whether it were the clothes themselves or the experiences in them, its alittle hazy. But I do know that I still can get that way about clothes. And my newest love is this sweatshirt.

I recently found out about this brand Boden. Its a UK brand that I have totally fallen in love with. And this sweatshirt was one of the items that first caught my eye. I know. Nothing Fancy. But between the colors and the texture, its just to relaxing to me. Boden has so many cute and modest clothes. Im excited to buy more things from them, thanks to my brother for a lovely birthday gift! . . . Thanks Boden for my new favorite sweatshirt!

Shadow

My Little Shadow

Set the Record Straight

So. In case anyone was thinking that I was sitting back in Connecticut with my feet up eating bon bons all day long, I just wanted to take this time to set the record straight. Here are some pictures to show what I have been up too.

I (helped) laid all the wood floors in the new house. I added helped, as there were other people, but I did assist in every room of the house. Spent many hours working on it all. This picture is from when my brothers were up visiting the first of Aug. Gotta love how everyone is watching my Dad work! Reminds me of what you see when you pass by construction zone.

Ahh. The drum sander. My arch nemesis. I lost feeling in my finger after using this machine for two 8 hr days straight. Not my favorite part of this process. After laying all the floors, we then put epoxy in all the holes and knots. Then had to sand the floors. First using a drum sander, than two other kinds (sorry, dont know the name), before varnishing. Dont worry. Used a buffer between the 3rd and 4th coats of varnish. Must say that I have a love/hate relationship with these floors. They are beautiful. But alot of work. One day Ill post a picture of the final.

Happy

Its been 4 months since I walked away from 347 Congress St, Boston, MA (Aka my job). Its been a fabulous 4 months full of travel, family, sun, warmth, friends, laughs, smiles, and simple goodness. Would never take back my decision. . . . The Spirit is a great guide. You just have to be quiet enough to let Him speak to you.

Touching

"Doctors have the ability and skills to heal your body

but friends heal your mind and transport you from your suffering." ~ Paul Cardall

I have not been keeping "normal" hours lately. I usually find something on the internet to hold my attention long enough that I forget time. . . . And tonight I was particularly touched by the this blog that I stumbled on. I remember a friend showing me it to me before for the amazing rendition of the Taylor Swift song Long Song, but the quote above really touched me as I know specifically in my life how true it is. Thank you to all those that are my friends. That help to transport me from my "suffering." Im grateful for the path that has crossed with yours.

First Day of School

Today was the first day of school for the little ones. Jack was very excited about starting kindergarten. Although his school didnt start until 1240, he was ready to go with backpack and all at 9am! It was darling. I forget what its like to be so excited for school.

Well. In order to fully enjoy the summer till the very end, we went to the "lake" yesterday with the cousins. We actually go to the Housatonic River. I thought this was so weird when I first moved here. But its a large river, and definitely wide and deep enough to enjoy some tubing, knee-boarding, and wakeboarding. There is even a little island where you can beach at and enjoy a swim. The kids all had a blast. Here are a few pictures.

Melia with Cousins Addie and Evie enjoy the fast ride in the front

Jack watching Taylor in the back

Taylor knee boarding

Baseball with the Nephews

I took Taye and Jack to the Rock Cats game in New Britain. We had a good ole time. No FenwayPark, but it was a nice stadium. It was also the boys' first professional game.

In honor of their first game, we had to enjoy all things baseball. Well, for a 5 y/o and 8 y/o, that is pretty much about food - or rather sugar.

1st Inning - Jack had a Hot dog, and Taye wanted Peanuts

Bottom of the 1st Inning - Jack said "That hot dog was really, really good. Can I have another one?!" - Jack had another hot dog, and Taye had two

Top of the 4th - Cotton Candy all around

Bottom of the 7th - Fried Dough.

And a long drive home to wear off all the sugar.

And tomorrow we will finish our sugar feast with free Italian Slushy's that we got a coupon for as the Rock Cats made atleast 5 home runs. Go Cats!

Its Offical!

Im a Connecticut Resident.

License and Plates were changed over today.

Still trying to decide how I feel about it all. . . . Not enjoying being $250 poorer because of it.

Life Lesson #6,975

So. During the summer when Im not traveling, I can be found doing really exciting things. I mean, if I were to post them earlier, then I know we would have been flooded with volunteers much earlier! . . . .

Since moving in with my brother, he has gotten to the finishing work on the house he is building. Therefore, I have been painting, and laying floors for the last months. It might seem like a really long time, but its just a really, really large house. I have come to realize that my calling in life is not to be a General Contractor. But I have enjoyed the progress.

This week I have had the pleasure of leaving the house before 830am (mind you, previously to this week I wouldnt be up until 10am) and working with my Dad. Its been an interesting experience working with a 75 y/o man. I am the one complaining of my back hurting, or my knees! He just plugs along. (Granted, he was hicuping on the first as I was working on the second floor, and I came running as my first instint was that he was calling for help as he was caught under piles of wood. Dramatic, I know! But sometimes he just doesnt know when to stop.)

This week specifically we have finished laying the floors on the the first floor. And a thought came to me amidst the nail gun banging and the saw. We are laying Texas Hickory wood floors. They are beautiful (unless you are talking to my dad!). But there are lots of knots, and whatnot in the wood. My dad likes to cut that out the knots and just have a "pretty" piece. But he just doesnt see the vision of the floors finisked and that we will take all the knots and blemishes, and work with them through Epoxy, and make it all beautiful and solid. . . . . Yesterday, it made me realize such a basic principle. We need to work on each inidividual task and talent at hand. And through each individual lesson, we will make a beautiful big picture. And those that really work through the difficult patches, will end up all the more beautiful in the long run. Life isnt about cutting it out and just moving on. Its about working with it and through it, and really making the best of what was given. Im hope that made alittle bit of sense.

Maybe its time for lessons to stick with me! I sometimes feel like Im always relearning.

Another trip to the City

Went to NYC again for 3 days this week. Sadly, my camera battery was dead for the first day, and therefore no pictures of biking in Central Park (again), meandering through SoHo, West Village, or just simply enjoying my family. It was fun to be able to spend time with two brothers, a sister-in-law, two cousins, and two cousins-once-removed in the city. It was great. HOT, but great.

Asha in the Japanese Garden at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden

Boating in Central Park for Sams Bday! Good times.

Cafe Cluny - Sams bday dinner! More Good times

Tears Amid the Noise

Today was a special and interesting day. I was with 4 of my 7 siblings, helping one of those siblings with his house. Its a normal thing for me since my move to the Nutmeg State. We hadnt spent time together, the five of us, in years. It was nice to all be together. Working together.

In the midst of my day laying wood floors, I got a very touching email from a dear, old roommate. It even made me tear up. It reminded me of how amazing our Heavenly Father is to put such amazing people in our path. When I reflect on the last 10 years of life, Im amazed at what my life has become simply because of the people I have been able to learn and grow from. Thank you! I wouldnt have had it any other way.

Taylors Baptism

I cant believe that little Taylor is 8 y/o! Its amazing how time flies. Well. Today, he was baptized, and lucky enough to be able to do it at his materinal grandparents home, and in their pool! How many people can claim that one?! Congrats little guy on making such an important decision. We love you!

NYC in the Summer!

Spent the weekend in NYC. It was a fabulous weekend. Here are some shots from a few of the activities.

Sam and I with a few other girls eating Italian.

Getting ready for a stroll in Central Park. Love the randomness of this shot!

Here is the whole crew afterwards! Good Times.

After the biking, we headed for another Italian dinner. And this one was also fabulous. It ended with 'The Titanic." It was alittle out of control. Or rather the 3 minutes flat that it took us to devour it. Granted there were 9 of us!

When Bad Things Happen to Good People

Do you know of someone that you think the world of, and for some reason they are always getting the short end of the stick? I just want to give alittle shout out to a few in my life. (For personal reasons, one will remain nameless.)

My cousin Peter is one of those people I know. He is such a fabulous person, but for some reason, he is one of the most tested people I know. His sister loving says that "his life just sucks." But if you were to meet him, you would never know such thing. He is so kind, humble, and amusing people you would ever meet. I truly aspire to have his such faith and humility.

Another one is a friend that I was kind enough to meet a few years back. I know that I was given a specific position at my last company, in order to meet this lady. She is fantastic, always has a smile on your face, and willing to bend over backwards if she can help you out. But for some reason, she just continues to end up on the short end. She is such an example to me of how to be a mother. And Im so gratiful for the chance to have her in my life.

Slight Realization

I am a movie freak. I go when ever I can. I go when ever I want to. (The beauty of singlehood.) I just simply love them. They are my Vodka and Cranberry juice after a long day. Or my long run. Or my pint of ice cream. Whatever it is that is your release from all things stressful. . . . There is just something about leaving your life, walking into a cool, dark movie theatre, and turning on the story of another one's life. Granted, they generally always have happy endings to their misfortunes.

. . . . This weekend I saw 500 Days of Summer. . . .

And when a movie doesnt always give the happy ending that I wished for it, then I get . . .well, alittle annoyed. And for this particular movie, my annoyance is still here 3 days later.

It JUST hit me why. I am much more like Tom than I really would like to admit. It never turns out for me the way that I would have liked. Dont worry. This isnt a 'wo is me' post, as I must admit, Heavently Father is amazing, and things have turned out amazing for me. Much, much better that I could have ever imagined. But I am a hopeless romantic. Sometimes I dont always want to admit that one, but its true. I am. I want the fairy tale ending in my own life, and it hasnt quite happened that way, yet. I keep dreaming, with all new crushes. One day it will work out. Patience I will continue to use.

4th of July

I was able to hit up DC for July 4th this year. What better way than to spend our nations birthday in our nations capital. It was fabulous. The weather was amazing. The company was amazing. The abiance was amazing. Couldnt have asked for a better weekend.

Hanging out with some new friends, Kristen, Katie, Brent, Sam, John

Lincoln Monument

Enjoying the Mall, with Kristen, Sam, and Jed

Dancing to alittle Aretha Franklin

Middle America

Im visiting an old roommate in Columbus, Ohio.  I know, I know. Not exactly Dublin, or London, or Santo Domingo.  But ever since I landed, or even in the plane, I have had the Counting Crows song in my head. 

"{Ohio}

Somewhere in middle America 

Get right to the heart of matters 
It's the heart that matters more 
I think you better turn your ticket in 
And get your money back at the door"

Love this song.  And Ohio. And middle America! Its so much more than I expected.  Need to post pics once I get back to my comp.  Even saw another Boston Friend at church!  Love small Mormon world!

Quote of the Day

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

~ Marianne Williamson

The quote is commonly thought to have been the words of Nelson Mandela, but it first came from Mrs Williamson. It makes my heart sore to find such words from people outside of my faith. I firmly know that we all have the ability to have the Spirit in our life, and to know of God, and when I find things like this, I get a reconfirmation of that. . . . It makes me want to go out and succeed and grow and help others.

Shout Out to My Dad!

My dad is: Kind, Loving, Quirky, Geeky (hello, pocket protectors!), Intellegent, Hard-working, Faithful, Generious. . . The list can go on.

I have always been a daddy's girl. I loved when I was in Kindergarden at this private school, and my dad would take me to school. From there, my dad would leave the car and ride his bike to his work. I love to wait to watch my dad pass by my classroom windows, and all the kids would wave at him. And my dad would wave back with a big grin on his face. . . . Oh how live was so much simplier then.

My dad is a pretty amazing person. The more I get to know him and learn about him, the more Im impressed by him. Oh how thankful for his desire to attend church as a young boy. Im so grateful for his faithfulness in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and respect for the Priesthood he holds. Im so thankful for being raised in a home where this was available to me.

Thanks Dad! Happy Fathers Day!

Blows My Mind

I know, three post in one day.  But I just feel like I have to share this.  

At said weekend from previous post, I was chatting with a particular young man.  He was interesting enough, but then this comes out of his mouth.  "I think deep down all Americans really want to be European." 

I must say that as much as I love Europe and want to visit as often as possible, and even try and live there, I do love America, and being American.  I was super perplexed as to why he would say such a thing.  Therefore, trying to understand why he would make such a statement, the conversation went on as follows:

ME: Why do you think such a thing?

B: Because Unemployment is getting to high, like it is over there. 

ME:  Have you even been "over there?"

B: Well . . .  No

ME: So, you really want to make a comment like that to someone you really dont know, when you havent even left the US. 

B: Ive been to Mexico

ME: On your Mission?

B: No, that was Brazil.  I went to Cancun and Tiwanna. 

ME: So you are going to base all your foreign concepts on what you saw in Cancun and Tiwanna?

(Seriously?!)

This is why I travel.  

Rhode Island . . .

. . . My Love!

Sam inticed me hang out in to Rhode Island with some of her NYC Friends for the weekend.  It was a lovely weekend.  I didnt head down there until Saturday afternoon due to a 2 y/o My Little Pony Birthday party, and I wanted to help some at the new house.  

There really is a special place in my heart for Rhode Island.  Its a quirky little state.  But it does definitely deliver for being so small.  

When I was living in Florida, and had never visited/lived in RI, I found myself dating a boy from Rhode Island.  I used to tease him that for being such a small state there must be only like two people that live there.  What must the other dude be doing with out him?!  Ahh.  Naive little me.  

Bold Move #5,555,678

Not going to expound on it at the moment.  But I made bold move #5,555,678 for the year. Trying to keep to my new years resolution that this was going to be the year for them.  Pray for me.    

The United Kingdom

Back state side after my random jaunt to the UK. It was a great trip. Made it to Northern Ireland, Ireland, England, and Scotland. It was beautiful, and only had about 2.5 days of rain, which the locals tell me that those are amazing odds! It was also really amazing to be able to meet up with a few old friends, also.

Now its time to face reality, but let me share a few pictures first.

You cant see too many sheep in this picture, but Ireland has more sheep than people. They are everywhere. We actually jumped a fence to try and get a picture close up with them, and they all scurried away, and then stopped, turned around and looked at us like we were lunatics.

Before almost dying on our ride around the Dingle Peninsula. Seriously, there was almost a funeral. Im WAY TOO out of shape to do stuff like that, sadly.

Cliffs of Moher. Totally went past the "Private Property, Do Not Enter" signs and

got some amazing photos.

The "Chair" at Giant's Causeway. GC was proof to me that Heavenly Father has a sense of humor. Loved it.

I was practicing in case we were to follow the rainbow to the pot of gold!

I was able to meet up with an old Boston friend in London, Aimee Latta.

She is lucky enough to be doing her Masters in London.

In front of Buckingham Palace, waiting for the changing of the Guard.

Hanging out in Glasgow with old friend Josh Barton.

Love this shot! Had to put it in.

Spontaneous!

On Sunday, I bought a plane ticket. . . For this Sunday.  Im heading to Ireland for a week, then off to London for a week.  Being unemployed is fabulous!

Sad Day in LDS Cambridge History

I came to Boston in time for Church this week.  Jasmine came to visit me in Hartford, and then we headed back to Boston last night.  

After about 20 minutes of sitting in the chapel, listening to Stake (Regional) Conference that was being broadcast from SLC, the fire alarm.  

. . .  Once the flames started, it didnt take long for this iconic building to be gutted.  

Its all still very surreal.  We all just stood around for hours watching.  Not really sure what to do, where to go, or how to help.  The Friends church across the street from us kindly opened there doors for us.  

This building was the first LDS Chapel in the area, New England Area.  Many, many people have passed through these doors.  Many memories were based on events here.  Many people consider this to be home.  . . .   Lucky, no one was hurt.  Everyone made it out safely.  And the biggest physical loss we endured is the pipe organ that will mostly be irreplaceable.  

One of the news crew commented on the fact that we werent hysterically cried or overly emotional about it.  He had been to other worship centers that had tragedy hit it.  But for many of us, I believe that we know that the building is not our faith/religion.  The building was merely a place of worship.  Another will be built.  We will continue to worship while its being built.  And that the Lord loves each and everyone of us, and will help.  

PS.  I made it to the news.  Trust me.  I didnt want to be.  I was asked to watch a friends bag as she chased after her two children.  So I was posted by the bag.  Not wanting to pick up three said bags when the news crew started to lurk, I tried to look uninterested in them.  Guess it didnt work.  I made it to two different stations.  One definitely proved why that was not my intention. 

PSS.  Thank you to the missionary that found my phone.  When I got up to evacuate the building, I heard a thud, just thought that a Hymn book fell, and kept walking.  Once I got outside, and realized that it was in fact a fire, and wanted to take a picture, I reached for my phone/camera, and did not find it.  I thought, 'Oh, its not bad, when its all over, Ill just go inside and get it.  Hope smoke damage is covered in the warranty!'  It started to get bad and I realized that I wasnt going to be getting in there, and I started to get alittle annoyed with myself for not checking when I heard the thud.  Well.  I mentioned it to a few of the friends around.  . . . And low and behold a friend came over and gave me my phone.  The missionaries got it, looked at my last text, and took it to that person.  Oh, thank you missionaries.  Saved me $400!  Lovely! 

Withdrawals

Seriously having problems.  I dont know what Im going to do.  

I started watching Season 2 - Lipstick Jungle.  You can get all the episodes on NBC.com.  

Darn them.  The series is over.  Which is sad.  Because this was a good series.  They need to bring it back.  Like yesterday.  

Day 1 - Official Unemployment

It was AMAZING and perfect!  

No alarm clock.  No jammed bus/train ride to work.  No deadlines.  No office ridiculousness.

Adorable smiles. Hugs from tiny arms. Your name only pronounced as "Weee." (Cant seem to get the "s" or "a!") Playing My Little Ponies for hours, and watch Disney movies during the day.    

This must be heaven, or atleast a slice of it.  

I dont think Im going to last forever without much to do.  But Ill take it for now.  

Any book suggestions?

Oh Happy Day!

Today is the day. Today is my last day at work. I never thought it would come. 6 weeks notice seems like an eternity.

Im so ready to start my new adventures. Or rather to rest and relax for abit before looking for the new adventures.

Beach Already?!

Wow. It got to 83 degrees yesterday, so what better way to spend the afternoon, than at the beach! Finally made it to Cranes Beach. Must say, not sure of all the hype. But nonetheless, so glad to spend sometime in the sun! Yeah for nice weather.

When. . .

When will it get here?

Seriously?

May 1 seems like an eternity.

6 more days in the office before freedom and the summer are before me.

I can almost taste it.

A Few

So. I was really lame about taking pictures while being away. Totally missed Denver, Phoenix, Mesa, New York, and some portions of DC. Arrgghh. But here are a few of what I did remember.

Hanging out on the Mall with Val and the Cherry Blossoms. It was such a nice day.

Downtown Santo Domingo in Zona Colonial, Day 2 therefore already pink.

Day 3 - Jane and I at the beach! Totally worth the effort to get there.