Live Life Deliberately

We Believe in God the Eternal Father

2011-09-09T08:11:00.003-06:00

1 We ^abelieve in ^bGod, the Eternal Father, and in His ^cSon, Jesus Christ, and in the ^dHoly Ghost.

This morning I was thinking about gifts of the spirit, and how they require faith...in God, the Eternal Father.

I remember hearing as a missionary that to truly have faith in God we need to understand His true nature. I am still working on that. I have heard more than on person comment on the fact that His preferred title is Father.

I have long loved this line from the Bible Dictionary under the heading of PRAYER.

As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are his children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11).

This really is more of a logic sequence. I hope everyone can follow it.

God is our Father

I am His daughter (son, for you men)

As his Daughter (Son) I inherit divine gifts.

As I believe and accept God as my father.

I accept access to divine gifts of the Spirit.

As we learn of God and our relationship to Him we learn more of our divine nature. More or our God given talents. More of what we are here to do. Or rather what we are here to become.

Envelope Budgeting

2011-07-08T14:13:00.000-06:00

I was in college when I was introduced to the idea of envelope budgeting. I have been budgeted my money using this idea for over 10 years. Here is an good introduction.

Budgeting was one of the reasons I wanted a smart phone. I was very excited to find a EEBA (Easy Envelope Budgeting Aid) app for my android phone.

https://www.eebacanhelp.com/login.php

Here is info on how to use EEBA.

Using EEBA free does not include account information. You are just tracking spending against a set spending allowance. It allows for 10 budget "envelopes" and 10 annual / irregular "envelopes".

I get paid every two weeks. I set up 10 envelopes I can empty ever two - four weeks. I also set up 5 irregular envelopes for things like my MSA account, building savings, and car insurance. I am also hoping to have my students use the sight to work on budgeting skills.

Live long, and prosper.

Monday Memory Moment

2011-06-27T19:45:00.004-06:00

It seems there are days I can go without noticing the date. Today, I saw it repeatedly. It struck mee as familiar and important for some reason. Maybe it is someone's birthday. Nope, no one I could think of ( I even checked facebook). Then all of a sudden it came to mee.

ON THIS DAY...

June 27, 1844

Carthage, Illinois. Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith were martyred by a mob in Carthage Jail.

Daily Events in the Life of Joseph Smith

There are many emotional and intellectual responses to the name JOSEPH SMITH. This range includes disgust, admiration, or nothing at all. There are few names more generic in the English language than Joseph Smith. Ask mee: Who is Joseph Smith?

A prophet of God. The first prophet of this, the last dispensation, or the dispensation of the fullness of times. The founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Translator of The Book of Mormon. A friend of God and all mankind.

Monday Mess Making

2011-06-20T22:55:00.000-06:00

I did a pretty good job making messes tonight. I had heard about Bountiful Baskets a few months ago. I hadn’t gotten myself to the point of participating until last week. To help give you a better idea of how much food there is, this is a cardboard apple box.

At that point, I was ambitious. Rather than starting with the basic basket I went for the basket, and the Mexican Add on. I have so many peppers, I don’t know what all of them are. At first look I thought…salsa.
I have never made salsa before. Neither had I worked with tomatillos. That too was interesting. I thought it tasted alright tonight. We’'ll see how it goes over at work tomorrow.

The other mess I started a while ago. It was actually an effort to clean something.

After my grandfather died I wanted a ratchet set. When Dad asked why I said: “If nothing else, for when you are there and need to use them.”
As you can tell they need some help. I remember my dad telling mee Cola would clean rust.

I actually soaked them twice. I bought this bottle a year (or two) ago. I didn’t know if it did what it was suppose to. After the first soaking, it still looked like a lot of work. It still took more elbow grease than I would have preferred.
Have you ever thought “This is going to make a big mess”, and then did it anyway.

After taking out and scrubbing all the tools, I decided to soak the case as well…
I dumbed the cola from the bucket to the case, which was too big for the sink.
Here is the out come…

I could have done a better job on the case…but it was getting late. I am not sure what else to do with these bits.

More Pictures

2011-06-17T11:06:00.008-06:00

This is my first attempt at making a movie...enjoy.

The Fence

2011-06-15T18:56:00.000-06:00

Old Fence:

Old Fence Piles:

New Fence Pile:

The Worker Bees:

New Fence:

Monday Memory Moment

2011-06-13T19:26:00.001-06:00

More from D. C. This is my favorite picture. It took a lot of effort to get. You may want to click on it to enlarge. There is lightening above the Lincoln Monument. !

I had heard the Lincoln Monument contained the Gettysburg Address:

I may have even heard it contained his 2nd inaugural address. I don't believe I had ever read it before. I took pictures. Including the trascript to make it easier to read.

Transcript of President Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address (1865)

Fellow Countrymen

At this second appearing to take the oath of the presidential office, there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at the first. Then a statement, somewhat in detail, of a course to be pursued, seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, during which public declarations have been constantly called forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs the attention, and engrosses the enerergies of the nation, little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself; and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured.

On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago, all thoughts were anxiously directed to an impending civil-war. All dreaded it -- all sought to avert it. While the inaugeral address was being delivered from this place, devoted altogether to saving the Union without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it without war -- seeking to dissole the Union, and divide effects, by negotiation. Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive;

and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came.

One eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed generally over the Union, but localized in the Southern ~~half~~ part of it. These slaves constituted a peculiar and powerful interest. All knew that this interest was, somehow, the cause of the war. To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union, even by war; while the government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. Neither party expected for the war, the magnitude, or the duration, which it has already attained. Neither anticipated that the cause of the conflict might cease with, or even before, the conflict itself should cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible, and pray to the same God; and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces; but let us judge not that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered; that of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes. "Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!"

If we shall suppose that American Slavery is one of those offences which, in the providence of God, must needs come, but which, having continued through His appointed time, He now wills to remove, and that He gives to both North and South, this terrible war, as the woe due to those by whom the offence came, shall we discern therein any departure from those divine attributes which the believers in a Living God always ascribe to Him? Fondly do we hope -- fervently do we pray -- that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue, until all the wealth piled by the bond-man's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash, shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said f[~~our~~] three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether"

With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan -- ~~to achieve and cherish a lasting peace among ourselves and with the world.~~ to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with ~~the world.~~ all nations.

Monday Memory Moment

2011-06-06T20:58:00.048-06:00

The first monument we made it to was Thomas Jefferson. I would of liked multiple hours to dedicate to each monument. As it was, we were lucky to have a day.

Mr. Griffin, our Social Studies teacher was able to give historical significance to the architectural style. While I found it interesting, I don’t recall most of it. I did find his depth and breath of knowledge amazing. Thomas Jefferson was truly a renaissance man. Under the memorial was a small museum and gift shop (s).

This first quote was from there. The rest are part of the memorial.

If a nation expects to ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was, and never will be. 1816

God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the Liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, this His justice cannot sleep forever. Commerce between master and slave is despotism. Nothing is more certainly written in the book of fate than that these people are to be free. Establish the law for educating the common people. This is the business of the state to effect and on a general plan.

I am not an advocate for frequent changes in laws and constitutions. But law and institutions must go hand in hand with the progress of the human mind. As that becomes more developed, more enlightened. As new discoveries are mode, new truths discovered and manner and opinions change. With the changes of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as wall required a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy as civilized society to remain ever under the regimen of their barbarous ancestors.

We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. Among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights governments are instituted among men. We …solemnly publish and declare, that these colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states…and for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honour.

Almighty God hath created the mind free. All attempts to influence it by temporal punishment or burthens---are departure from the plan of the Holy Author of our Religion---no man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship or ministry or shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief. But all men shall be free to profess and by argument to maintain their opinions in matters of religion. I know but one code of morality for men whether acting singly or collectively.

(around the top, inside)

Monday Memory Moment

2011-05-30T14:57:00.001-06:00

About a month before our trip I realized I would be in Washington D.C. for Easter Sunday. In many ways Easter isn’t much different from any other Sunday. This is not due to a lack of reverence for the Easter Celebration. Rather, it is consequence of a reverence for the Lord’s Day.

I remember meeting a young women on my mission. She must have been in her mid-teens. We had been invited into their home for a religious discussion. As they were Seventh Day Adventist our conversation evolved around the Sabbath day. As with some other Christian denominations they observe Saturday, the 7th day, as the Sabbath. As is the Jewish custom.

Old Testament | Genesis 2:1–3‎
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.
In this conversation she asked me why we worship the Lord on Sundays. I in turn asked her which day they celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. “Why, Easter Sunday, of course.”
Thus it is, each Sunday, a weekly reminder of the risen Lord.

Judge mee how you may. I took an ox in the mire position. Who knows if I will ever make it back to D.C. I took the opportunity to see some sights. Doing so I was very mindful of it being Easter Sunday.
It was a beautiful Sunday. The sun was shining, not too hot, not to cold. And the humidity…was comfortable. We started with lunch at Union Station. Originally we planned on just riding the bus around and not getting off. When I realized we were approaching the cemetery I wanted to get off. Cemeteries are hollowed grounds. I find myself drawn to them for Easter, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day.
Without going into detail I let my desire to get off known to the rest of my group. While a little hesitant, they picked up the intensity, if not the depth of my desire to spend Easter Sunday at:

I was about ready to cry right there, and I haven’t even made it through the gate.
“Our nation’s most sacred shire.”
I can’t seem to get over that line. Humility and awe overwhelm mee. As Latter-day Saints our temples are sacred. Our families are sacred. Something is sacred because you make it so by how you treat it, talk about it, and even live for it. A shrine is something built, maintain and cared for to honor someone or something we hold dear. I was to spend the next week visiting monuments (shrines) built for founding father’s, presidents, and war veterans.

This shrine, Arlington National Cemetery, started as the order was given for Civil War casualties to be buried in “Mrs. Lee’s garden”. Lying west of the Potomac River the Lee Plantation become the resting place of those who are willing to give their lives for freedom. The giving of life for an ideal, makes the ideal sacred. Maintaining a resting place for those whose lives have been given for the same ideal makes it a shrine.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier…I am not sure I could begin to explain. We were able to witness the changing of the guard. How do you explain the “why” in guarding a tomb? Furthermore, how do explain the responsibility as be a high honor? For the you to understand you would need to value you something deeply, so as to be willing to sacrifice for it.

I have heard it said there are two people willing to die for your freedom:
JESUS CHRIST and the American Solider. I am profoundly grateful for both.
I got to spend an Easter Sunday at Arlington National Cemetery. A beautiful reminder of those who have died for my freedom. One of them rose again. May I prove worthy of their sacrifices.

Monday Memory Moment

2011-05-23T19:26:00.001-06:00

Yes, it has been a while. I was informed I need to share more of my D.C. pictures.

The Education Department went the Council of Exceptional Children Convention and Expo which was held in National Harbor, MD. I struggled deciding which I was more excited about: convention vs. Washington D.C.
We had almost a full week in the DMV (District of Maryland, Virginia).
We had three days of Convention and three days of site seeing. I had one MUST see:

The Charters of Freedom. Housed in the National Archives, 235 year old parchment, elegant penmanship, and inspired words protected as the priceless gift they are: The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution of the United States of America and the Bill of Rights. Amazing, amazing, amazing...this should be the Mecca of all freedom loving people.

While I will treasure knowing that I have seen the actual documents. I am most grateful for a keener understanding of the sacrifice and foresight of these, our founding fathers. As I wondered the monuments and museums I kept reflecting on the words given to the Prophet Joseph Smith concerning this great land and are freedoms.

Doctrine and Covenants 101:77–80‎

77 According to the laws and constitution of the people, which I [God] have suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles;
78 That every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency which I have given unto him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins in the day of judgment.
79 Therefore, it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another.
80 And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land [The United States of America], by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood.

Fiona

2010-12-28T18:23:00.000-07:00

I got a new name today. One of the boys called mee Mrs. Shrek. I think he may have trying to insult or upset mee. Rather I was confused and asked him to repeat what he said. While I turned the conversation to what Shrek's wife should be called, my mind went another direction.

Although I haven't worn about a Shrek movie I will say I enjoy the story line. 1) The princes wasn't saved by a prince she had only danced with once. 2) They learned to get along and talk and so on. 3) The ever lasting beauty of true loves kiss looked nothing like the airbrushed photoshop models we are regularly bombarded with. Even the second movie maintains the separation of love and the media's ideal look.

I therefore decided I was okay being called Fiona.

to see the video www.alwaysmee.blogspot.com

ginger? house

2010-12-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

The task was to make a ginger bread house.

I made a sugar wafer out house.

The trees tell you it is out in the forest. Look closely. There is even a moon on the door.

Frost is going in. Hope there is toilet paper.

visit the actual blog to see the video www.alwaysmee.blogspot.com

Say... :)

2010-07-12T22:06:00.000-06:00

Last week I was a girls' camp. We had a lot of fun. One of my goals for the year was to participate in the hike. While near the height of our climb I decided I wanted a picture.

I stood up on a mountain slope giving a directive; "Say cheese", when another time and place came to mind.

I was in the Missionary Training Center (MTC) for three weeks. While I was there we took lots of pictures, especially the last day or so. One of our MTC Instructors had his own twist on picture taking. Where most might prompt, "Say Cheese" we were prompted with...say...

POLYGAMY !!!

Red Skelton's Pledge of Allegiance

2010-07-04T21:58:00.000-06:00

I am so grateful for the grace of God which allows mee to live free. Free to choose. Free to worship, or not worship, which ever I choose. We are so blessed. A beautiful land from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The poor among us have more than a majority of the word.

As I heard this on the radio I thought a prayer.

May we never be ashamed of this flag.

Fabric, yes, but so much more.

A reminder of fore fathers who thought more us than their lives or their possessions.

A reminder of soldiers willing to give their lives.

A reminder of soldiers families separated from loved ones.

And most of all

A reminder of God, who has made a preserved us a nation.

God bless America!!!

(you may need to go to alwaysmee.blogspot.com to view the video)

Thank You Soldiers - Veteran's Day/Memorial Day Song

2010-07-02T09:04:00.000-06:00

I am American

2010-06-25T16:03:00.000-06:00

My computer went to my brothers for a visit. I got a blue screen of death. I am actually blogging from my work computer. It is a work related topic.

A part of my job is data collection. We receive demographic information on our clients. As a sociologist I understand why we collect data about individual race/ethnic identity. There is something about the process which has been bothering mee for a while.

Non/Hispanic
I have been wondering for a while about how the race and ethnic information is reported. The forms include both. Ethnicity is reported as Hispanic or Non-Hispanic. Then there is a separate race selection. I am offended. My ethnic identity, or that of anyone else shouldn't be based on "Are you Hispanic?" There are more then two ethnic groups in the world.

I got an e-mail today telling mee about the new federal guidelines for race and ethnicity categories. Google it. There are a lot of sites to look at. Apparently these forms are within compliance. It seems the purpose was to allow those who are Hispanic it be able to also acknowledge their racial differences within an ethnic group. What about the rest of us?

It is nice that individuals will get to select more than one race. Mind you, race is a genetic physical heritage. Ethnicity on the other hand refers to social and cultural similarities to a group of people. Historically ethnic groups have been of similar race. Thus the oft interchange of word usage. World travel and mixed race relations have altered that reality.

So, what's your ethnicity? You will come across the question on a variety of forms. I cannot deny it is a part of who we are as individuals and groups. My racial heritage is Northern European, mostly. There is also some Native American blood in my veins. I can trace my lines to pre-Revolution America. My lines include Yankees and Confederates. I even have Mormon Immigrates as ancestors.

How do I respond to questions about race and ethnicity? Well, as God fearing Idaho hick, I have been writing in my own option:
6+ generation American.

Flag Day

2010-06-14T10:55:00.000-06:00

to view: http://alwaysmee.blogspot.com/

Monday Memory Moment

2010-05-24T18:48:00.002-06:00

As children, my brother, sisters and I enjoyed swimming. I remember swimming at Black Canyon Reservoir when we lived in Emmett. Most of memories, however, are of swimming at Eagle Island State Park.

The swimming is in a slow portion of the Boise River. There is a "beach". I really remember the cattails, and swimming out the island. I also remember diving for rocks. There is also a water slide. It was a special treat to enjoy. I do remember trying to keep our bare feet cool on the hot cement. We might follow wet foot prints, or stand on our mat, if we grabbed one.

We often got a season pass. It was close enough we would often go for just an hour or so after dad got home from work. I cannot say there was one particular time I remember the most. All of them sort of run together. However, I do remember what TIME we often went.

If we were wanting to go swimming when dad got home, first we had to eat dinner. Then, we had to clean up from dinner. We where usually given the same time frame as to when the dishes had to be done if we were to go swimming.

Dishes had to be done before...Hogan's Heroes was over.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-05-17T21:13:00.002-06:00

I remembered I hadn't completed my memory moment. Right now, I just want to go to bed. I also remembered that I want to share this video. I remember some of the same things Brad does. Enjoy!!!

e-mail and facebook viewers...go to alwaysmee.blogspot.com

Monday Memory Moment

2010-05-10T20:56:00.000-06:00

My sister recently asked for "mom" memories. Starlings were the first thing that came to mind. They are little brown birds. While the females are brown the males are more colorful, to attract a mate.

How does this related to my mother?

When I was in elementary school I did a report on starlings. I don't remember if it was suppose to be on an animal or a bird. Whereas I lived in Star I probably felt it was only logical for mee to right a report on STARlings.

If I remember right I had a book with the information I needed. Reading wasn't a strength, and was therefore avoided. Mom read to book onto a tape. I remember looking though the book while listening to the tape. It my have been my first audio book.

Thanks, Mom.

Dependence, a weakness

2010-05-03T21:28:00.000-06:00

While standing at the kitchen sick I was pondering what story to tell you tonight. My thoughts turned to cleaning my house. Not really anything most people want to remember. However, maintaining a cleaner home is my goal for the year.

Mission story:

A clean home wasn't really a huge prioriaty growing up. We had chores. Most of us got out of doing the dishes when mom said she would do them if we would cook. (It's always funner making the mess.) Have you ever heard, "Nothing cleans a house like company"? If we new someone was coming over, we cleaned. We also did a good clean before leaving town for a few days. I also remember washing the ceiling a number of times.

Sister Tanner, our mission President's wife, always had about a half hour of so during Zone Conference. About halfway into the mission she talked about keeping our apartments clean. It wasn't until then that I made the connection. I remembered liking the feeling of having a clean room. In D&C 132:8 the Lord says "...my house is a house of order..." It is also recorded in various places and phrasings "...no unclean thing can dwell with God..." So I realized, at 25, the reason my clean room felt so much better was because it was easier for the Spirit of God to be there.

I cannot say I mastered the cleanliness trait. I tend to migrate to cleaner offices when I need a different place to think at work.

Moving on...I started with the thought about developing my cleaning habits. Then my thoughts went to Ether 12:27 " ... I will make weak things strong unto you..."

This thought usually leading my mind back to sitting in my Major Professor's office. In accordance with NCLB I needed a subject area endorsement on my Special Education Certificate. She suggested Reading. Inside I laughed. Then came " ... I will make weak things strong unto you..."

While in elementary school I received Special Ed. services with a reading disability. In fact my IQ- achievement discrepancy was 25 points. It only need to be 15 for mee to qualify. (yep, Mee, the Reading Specialist who hates to read.)

Mind jumping back to " ... I will make weak things strong unto you..." "...There is only one weakness." That was all she had a chance to say. It wasn't the point of the lesson. I was curious.

Ether 12:27

27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their ^aweakness. I ^bgive unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my ^cgrace is sufficient for all men that ^dhumble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make ^eweak things become strong unto them.

She was right. I had always read it as "...I will show unto them their weaknesses..." Don't take this to mean you only have one flaw. The Lord did also tell Moroni "...I will make weak things become strong unto you."

So, what is this weakness? The answer I got, and felt to share via my not so world famous blog, dependence. It drives mee nuts. I work with so many students who feel they need to be coddled every step of the way. They often won't even try to do things by themselves. Oh, and those girls ( I am sure there are guys too) who always need to be in a relationship. Drive mee batty.

Yet, through our imperfect, mortal, probationary state we are dependent on Christ. There is no way home without Him. There is no peace without Him. There is no life without Him. It is through this humble and dependent state with Christ we are strong. With God, all things are possible.

Barack Obama has awakened a sleeping nation

2010-05-01T11:50:00.000-06:00

Gary Hubbell: The Readneck tree hugger
Aspen Times Weekly, Sunday, February 28, 2010

Barack Obama is the best thing that has happened to America in the last 100 years. Truly, he is the savior of America's future. He is the best thing ever.

Despite the fact that he has some of the lowest approval ratings among recent presidents, history will see Barack Obama as the source of America's resurrection. Barack Obama has plunged the country into levels of debt that we could not have previously imagined; his efforts to nationalize health care have been met with fierce resistance nationwide; TARP bailouts and stimulus spending have shown little positive effect on the national economy; unemployment is unacceptably high and looks to remain that way for most of a decade; legacy entitlement programs have ballooned to unsustainable levels, and there is a seething anger in the populace.

That's why Barack Obama is such a good thing for America.

Obama is the symbol of a creeping liberalism that has infected our society like a cancer for the last 100 years. Just as Hitler is the face of fascism, Obama will go down in history as the face of unchecked liberalism. The cancer metastasized to the point where it could no longer be ignored.

Average Americans who have quietly gone about their lives, earning a paycheck, contributing to their favorite charities, going to high school football games on Friday night, spending their weekends at the beach or on hunting trips — they've gotten off the fence. They've woken up. There is a level of political activism in this country that we haven't seen since the American Revolution, and Barack Obama has been the catalyst that has sparked a restructuring of the American political and social consciousness.

Think of the crap we've slowly learned to tolerate over the past 50 years as liberalism sought to re-structure the America that was the symbol of freedom and liberty to all the people of the world. Immigration laws were ignored on the basis of compassion. Welfare policies encouraged irresponsibility, the fracturing of families, and a cycle of generations of dependency. Debt was regarded as a tonic to lubricate the economy. Our children left school having been taught that they are exceptional and special, while great numbers of them cannot perform basic functions of mathematics and literacy. Legislators decided that people could not be trusted to defend their own homes, and stripped citizens of their rights to own firearms. Productive members of society have been penalized with a heavy burden of taxes in order to support legions of do-nothings who loll around, reveling in their addictions, obesity, indolence, ignorance and “disabilities.” Criminals have been arrested and re-arrested, coddled and set free to pillage the citizenry yet again. Lawyers routinely extort fortunes from doctors, contractors and business people with dubious torts.

We slowly learned to tolerate these outrages, shaking our heads in disbelief, and we went on with our lives.

But Barack Obama has ripped the lid off a seething cauldron of dissatisfaction and unrest.

In the time of Barack Obama, Black Panther members stand outside polling places in black commando uniforms, slapping truncheons into their palms. ACORN — a taxpayer-supported organization — is given a role in taking the census, even after its members were caught on tape offering advice to set up child prostitution rings. A former Communist is given a paid government position in the White House as an advisor to the president. Auto companies are taken over by the government, and the auto workers' union — whose contracts are completely insupportable in any economic sense — is rewarded with a stake in the company. Government bails out Wall Street investment bankers and insurance companies, who pay their executives outrageous bonuses as thanks for the public support. Terrorists are read their Miranda rights and given free lawyers. And, despite overwhelming public disapproval, Barack Obama has pushed forward with a health care plan that would re-structure one-sixth of the American economy.

I don't know about you, but the other day I was at the courthouse doing some business, and I stepped into the court clerk's office and changed my voter affiliation from “Independent” to “Republican.” I am under no illusion that the Republican party is perfect, but at least they're starting to awaken to the fact that we cannot sustain massive levels of debt; we cannot afford to hand out billions of dollars in corporate subsidies; we have to somehow trim our massive entitlement programs; we can no longer be the world's policeman and dole out billions in aid to countries whose citizens seek to harm us.

Literally millions of Americans have had enough. They're organizing, they're studying the Constitution and the Federalist Papers, they're reading history and case law, they're showing up at rallies and meetings, and a slew of conservative candidates are throwing their hats into the ring. Is there a revolution brewing? Yes, in the sense that there is a keen awareness that our priorities and sensibilities must be radically re-structured. Will it be a violent revolution? No. It will be done through the interpretation of the original document that has guided us for 220 years — the Constitution. Just as the pendulum swung to embrace political correctness and liberalism, there will be a backlash, a complete repudiation of a hundred years of nonsense. A hundred years from now, history will perceive the year 2010 as the time when America got back on the right track. And for that, we can thank Barack Hussein Obama.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-04-26T21:10:00.002-06:00

I received an e-mail of "Texas Facts" from my cousin. It has some pretty interesting information. Read the following and then I'll share a quick mission story.

Cowboy's Ten Commandments posted on the wall at Cross Trails Church in Fairlie , Texas :

(1) Just one God.
(2) Honor yer Ma & Pa.
(3) No telling tales or gossipin'.
(4) Git yourself to Sunday meeting.
(5) Put nothin' before God.
(6) No foolin' around with another fellow's gal.
(7) No killin'.
(8) Watch yer mouth.
(9) Don't take what ain't yers.
(10) Don't be hankerin' for yer buddy's stuff.

I did a google search for Cross Trails Church. This is the article I liked the best.

Mission Story:
I was in my last area, Holtom City. We had been working with a young father for about a month. His daughter was friends with a girl in the ward, and the families were growing closer. We were getting reading to share Moroni's promise when the seven-year-old came in. Dad asked if she wanted to read...

Moroni 10:3

3 Behold, I would exhort ya'll that when ya'll shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ya'll should read them, that ya'll would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ya'll shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts...

Dad corrected her before she got too far...but classic.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-04-19T17:52:00.000-06:00

I am getting ready for my trip to Nashville. When I thought about taking Boyd I remembered I haven't put up Sun Valley pictures yet.

This is one of my Co-workers, he wasn't this happy to have Boyd on his shoulder when I first put him there. This picture in in the Sun Valley Lodge Dining Room. I wish I was a really good architecture photographer. My pictures won't do it justice.

This picture is also in the dining room. You can see the pine trees and the sun coming in. It had been snowing. It was also cold in the room. A small group of us took to setting at the window because that it where the heat came in.

This picture is from our condo. It had more of a late 60's early 70's feel. It was big enough for the 6 of us. From the point where I was standing I could look down to the TV and fire place. Look across I saw...

a little reading nook. It was a great place to do my early morning scripture studying. The stain glass window on the right was in the room I shared with my assistant. It looked pretty neat at night with the only light coming from behind.

Do you see Boyd?

Phil Vassar, John Wayne Lyrics

2010-04-15T20:51:00.000-06:00

hurray!!! another John Wayne Song!!!

Just another 4 wheels on the 2 lane off to work. Just another lunch box, punch the clock, with my
name across my shirt.
Radio spills the news. Superman has got the blues.

I guess you just lose touch. When too much aint enough. And all that stuff is going to turn to dust and sand... in the
end.

But a real man, loves his God and Momma. Yes a real man is thirsty for the truth. A real man is faithful to his woman.
Because thats what he saw his Daddy do. In a world where love and heroes fade away I wanna be John Wayne.

After my day is done. I lay down with my only one. Girl there aint no holding back the sun. As I watch her sleeping.
Loves a promise thats worth keeping. And holding it together. By holding on forever. Girl that never ever ever let you go.
That's my code.

Cuz a real man loves his God and Momma. Yes a real man is thirsty for the truth. A real man is faithful to his woman.
Cuz thats what he saw his Daddy do. In a world where love and heroes fade away. I wanna be John Wayne. Woooah, you make
me feel strong, so strong.

And a real man, loves his God and Momma. Yes, a real man is thirsty for the truth. A real man is faithful to his woman.
Cuz thats what he saw his Daddy do. In a world where love and heroes fade away. Woooahh, I wanna ride right in and save
the day. I wanna be John Wayne. I wanna be John Wayne. I wanna be strong. I wanna be John Wayne.

I wanna be John Wayne.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-04-12T20:49:00.000-06:00

I know, it has been a while. For these pictures as well. I spent some time scanning in pictures during spring break. These pictures were taken at Eastside Marketplace in Moscow. I am guessing they were taken late in 1998 or early 1999.

I believe I knew Sean (on the sax) and Eric (keyboards) were going to be playing there. I knew Sean through various campus activities and Eric through church. I would try to go listen to them when ever I knew they were performing.

If I am remembering correctly my sister and family just happened to be there as well. We at dinner in the common area and enjoyed the music. As you can see Munchkin also enjoyed the music. She has always loved to dance.

The Gift and Power of The Book of Mormon...

2010-04-09T05:48:00.001-06:00

originally drafted 13 Nov 2009

I am a Special Education Teacher. How I got here is a story of itself. However, it is not the one I am telling today. Today, is a story of thanksgiving. Thanksgiving to earthly and Heavenly Parents.

The Boy at School

I have a new student. I have been working with him for almost a month now. With a huge sigh of irritation I will tell you he is a handful. He is the youngest of our boys. He is according to assessments very low academically. He is regularly moving. He yells. He threatens. He makes noises. He tries hard. He is creative. He works through the problems with determination.

Yesterday I found myself wanting to cry. I was sitting across a small table. I was reading math problems to him. He struggles with reading. The letters get all mixed up. The words get all out of order. I found myself humbled by his level of effort. Not only his effort, but also his method of elimination, and of trail and error.

We moved on to completing an assignment about himself. Raise your hand if you would think to make a "D" into a bow with an arrow? And then to make the following letter is target? Could you spell "Rootee", "Jorgj", and "Rawde"? His spelling skills indicate a knowledge of basic letter sound correlation. If those English people would only have one spelling pattern for sounds like /aw/ and /ee/. And cast out those unstressed vowel sounds... It is at this point I am all for using Spanish. It is way easier to spell. Add they have a much higher percentage of decodable words.

As I was wanting to cry I remember thinking, "How frustrating it must be to be so stuck in his brain without a way to get it all out."

Additional Insights

A couple of months ago I went to a presentation by Ron. D Davis. He is a gentleman who has struggle with profound dyslexia for his whole life. He told us his story. It was amazing. Apparently it is in a book he wrote, The Gift of Dyslexia. I have been thinking a lot about his presentation and finally requested the audio book from the Library.

I have told people I have a mild dyslexia. I have a friend who wants to tell you it is a visual processing disorder. Those who know more about how computers of the brain works might appreciate this statement more. It is a statement I have made more than once.

If you really thought about the effort it takes to read, you wouldn't do it.

Recently my mom gave me a large zip-lock bag with a hanging file of stuff in it. The papers included some of my early special education paper work. The information may not mean much to those outside to jargon of Special Ed. However... the numbers tell me I had a profound reading disorder. I can say, "Hurray for Special Education!"

The Book of Mormon

More than once, in public and private settings, I have praised the power of The Book of Mormon, and a Bishop. When I was 11 or 12 I met with a young Bishop. He asked mee if I was reading The Book of Mormon. I remember telling him it was too hard and confusing. He challenged mee to pray. Take the matter to the Lord and ask for His help.

I did so. It took mee at least two years the first time, but I made it through. I then participated in challenges in Seminary to read it in various lengths of time. The shortest time frame was one month. I took the challenge. Twenty pages a day. I did it!!

I was struggling through a law class in graduate school. Another church leader talked about a situation he had been in when he was in graduate school. He learned to begin his study session with prayer and reading from The Book of Mormon. It helped mee too.

Today

As I woke up this morning I was thinking of my young man at school. I was trying to decide if I had the energy to work with him. I thought of the frustration he feels not being able to express himself as most of the people around him.

Then, I remembered feeling that way. Feeling like a distant island with a gulf separating mee from everything else going on. Yelling at my parents that they didn't understand mee. Learning to fear any attempt of explaining my thoughts because I couldn't do it fast enough. Or with the ease everyone else had.

Then a thought came to mee: You still would if your Dad hadn't read to you everyday.

This morning I learned my dad was and instrument in the hands of the Lord in developing my ability to read. Yes. I put forth a lot of effort in reading too. I have a basic working knowledge of Learning Disabilities and Reading education. My efforts to read were magnified. They were magnified by the grace of God. They were further in enhanced my having heard The Book of Mormon, many, many times.

I don't recall when it started. I remember it all though middle and high school. My dad read to us from The Book of Mormon every week day. And probably Sundays too.

I wonder...

2010-04-05T21:49:00.002-06:00

Tonight, I want to bring you into a world you may not be too familiar with. This world I speak of is one where I find myself. I didn’t necessarily plot the course to get here. It is not the place I would like to stay. Nevertheless here I am.

Let mee begin by telling you a couple of stories. Names will be changed to protect the innocent, or the guilty, whatever the case maybe.

Story number one: A day in the mountains.

They had been announcing in church the stake would be having a service day. We were responsible for fixing up a camp ground north of us. We were to meet at the stake center and go on up as a group.

When I got to the stake center I was expecting to see families. All I say where men.

“Did I miss that this was a priesthood responsibility?”

“Oh no, we are glad to have you help.”

I thought about backing out. But, it was free ride to spend the day in the Sawtooths.

I enjoyed the solitude, the fresh air, and manual labor. Solitude? You ask. Yes, there were a number of men there. They were married or teenagers.

I wonder…

How uncomfortable or cautious should I feel when talking to married men?

How long can I just sit and chat with them? At work? At church?

Do I need to keep it work/church related?

Is anything personal allowed?

How do you make friends with others who are in a different world i.e., women married with children?

Story number two: A chance meeting.

It was actually a planned meeting. It was random happenstance that I was there. I had been asked to go only 10 hours before hand. I was excited to go; we were to be talking about girls’ camp.

Before we broke up into our separate groups the stake presidency was to give us some instruction. I don’t think I have ever been this fond of a stake presidency. In the past I might have recognized a name, or face of one or all three. I often enjoyed listening to them teach. With my current stake presidency I feel that I can approach each one of them with anything. I looked forward to hearing what they have to say.

The Higher Priesthood, what a blessing it is. It seems the topic has come up a lot. When it does I have a hard time keeping my emotions inside. As President Z talked I doodled. I was trying so hard to not let it bother mee. I agreed with everything said. I would gladly be a member of the choir.

I wonder…

If home teachers of single sisters know how much they are needed?

How important it is we feel comfortable enough to call you when we are sick in body or heart?

How frustrating it is when you feel like you have called half the brethren in the ward to find someone?

Next we are talking about the youth.

***I didn’t record the event, so these are not direct quotes***

Question: “What does a young women have to have before going to the temple?”

Responder A: “A testimony”

Questioner: “Yes… what else does she need?”

Responder B: “A worthy man to take her to the temple.”

Questioner: “Yes!” He moves on…

Responder A: “Do we really want our young women believing they have to be getting married to go to the temple?”

I believe there was a side comment.

Questioner: “Or a mission call.”…again moving on…

Responder A: “I went through the temple two years before my mission.” (It was actually three…)

This is an example of a myth which continues to be perpetuated. “Marry a return missionary in the temple and all will be well.”

I wonder…

Have you ever thought about living on a concrete slab?

I am an idealist. 100% believe being married in the temple is the way to go. It is the way to start. Come along for a quick analogy. YM/YW is a preparation stage. Plans are made, skills are learned and refined. Marriage in the temple is a very solid foundation for a great life. The home still needs to be built.

Can we talk more about the sweat, the tears?

What about the frustration with warped boards and imperfect timing?

Is there fear that if the hard times are talked about they will want to back away?

What about the possibility of not getting married in this life?

Do we get to learn how to be single?

I was Responder A. The biggest thing that kept mee from walking out was the two sisters sitting between mee and the isle. I decided later a reason I was so upset. Earlier that same day I had a thought…”I am not married, so what is my purpose in life, what am I suppose to be doing?” And there I had it confirmed. I was supposed to get married.

To be fair, I know President X responded to my statements. It was reported to mee that he validated everything I had said. I however, missed it. My focus was on trying to keep the tears inside. I failed miserably. President C (he he, get it Presidency, President C) stopped mee later to thank mee for my comments.

Now what? Only God knows, and I will leave it in his hands. I will also continue to pester him. And, continue to do those things which will insure blessings.

I wonder...

will I remember to recognize my trails as blessings?

That each day is another opportunity to become more prepared to return to the home I long for?

Sincerely,

Your Single Adult Awareness Activist

I was some what hesitant about posting this on a public blog. I am a sociologist. I know the manner in which I was raised has an enormous impact on the thoughts I have, and expectations for life. I am also not worried about revealing the truth. For anyone who may want to respond to this with; “See, I knew those Mormons were all {insert negative adjective here}. Know this, I know for myself The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the Lord’s only true and living church on the earth.

No Child Left Behind embraces 'college and career readiness' / The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com

2010-03-24T22:04:00.013-06:00

The Declaration of Independence as set forth, signed, and defend by our forefathers includes:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

This does not include what type of life. Nor, does is define happiness. So when I see a headline such as:

No Child Left Behind embraces 'college and career readiness' / The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com

I wonder who defines this as the type of life or manner of happiness each US citizen needs to pursue. At this point I have not even read the article. It does, however, irritate mee that someone thinks everyone should be preparing for college or a "career" while in high school.
Yes, there are those who already know what they want to do. Maybe they have decided that they want to go to college, Or a trade school. Sweet. I try helping my student learn skills that an employer would like to see. Some get it, some don't. I am going to venture to say those who "get it" had some quality training at home. So...Then, why are schools teaching work place competencies?
My understanding is that states are responsible for providing Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). My vote is still out on compulsory education. 1) it is a whole lot easier to teach someone who wants to learn, 2) as a co-worker would say, "the world needs ditch diggers," 3) eventually people learn they want to learn more, or they are content/complacent in their self-determined level of happiness/property 4) most states are more willing to pay for quality jails than schools anyway. Why I am for compulsory education... I have had more than one set of parents who would rather have their child at home taking care of siblings so they don't have to.
A problem with our current system is people who are on unemployment/welfare or are in jail seem to have more right to luxuries than those of us who chose the path of education and self-reliance.

Lets get back to make choices and being accountable for them.

Resurrection Rolls

2010-03-22T21:30:00.000-06:00

I have been slacking on my Monday Memory Moment. And this has nothing to do with that...

I am passing along a blog post I felt was worth sharing.

Happy Easter!!!

Resurrection Rolls

2010-03-15T08:29:00.000-06:00

if you are reading this in an e-mail for facebook view video at alwaysmee.blogspot.com

I post this video as a concerned citizen. We need to keep an eye on what our government is doing. I refer to the legislative branch as well as the executive branch. Contact your elected officials at the every level. Follow what they are doing. Let them know how you feel about it.

It is my view the person who desires more government seeks to negate personal responsibility. It is time we spend more time teaching people how to fish.

Following is from McLintock! (1963) with John Wayne. We is offering a translation for the Comanche Nation.

"...If a man lose his pride in manhood he is nothing...It is a Comanche law that no chief ever eats unless first he sees that the pots are full of meat in the lodges of the widows and orphans. It is the Comanche way of life. This that the white man calls charity is a fine thing for widows and orphans. But no warrior can accept it! For if he does he is no longer a man, when he is no longer a man he is nothing...

Way to go BYU!!!

2010-03-07T20:54:00.002-07:00

Values.com | Your Motivational Stories & Inspirational Short Stories Young Examples

2010-02-24T11:53:00.000-07:00

Values.com | Your Motivational Stories & Inspirational Short Stories Young Examples

Here is just a taste from the websight. Check it out!

Monday Memory Moment

2010-02-22T19:36:00.001-07:00

This weekend I got into a discussion about colleges. One of my friends commented on how she doesn't want her daughter to go to the University of Idaho because it is ranked as the # 3 party school in the nation. My first reaction was to laugh. So many alumni are proud of that fact.

I don't remember what I said. What I should have mentioned was that the University of Idaho is also home to the first Institute of Religion, in the world!!!

...it is a fun unique fact to share...I graduated from the first Institute of religion.

My sister included this scrapbook page with a bunch of pictures she recently sent mee.

from the picture: This is the original podium in the Moscow Institute Building. This podium was presented to the church for the Institute's 75th anniversary in May 2001. Elder Eyring asked that it remain in Moscow until the 100th Anniversary of the Institute Program.
Created in 1926 as the first institute for The Church of Jesus Christ of LAtter-Day Saints.
Dan Schoenburg restored the podium to what could be determined as it's original state.

Along with Elder's Erying's CES address we had an Institute Reunion including half hour ceremony for the 75th Anniversary. I have the ceremony and address on VHS. I was in the choir :-). His address Education for Real Life can be found by following the link.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-02-08T19:52:00.000-07:00

As a high school student I took the opportunity to brighten peoples day by secretly decorating doors. I usually had one or more friend with mee. We typically had a "theme".

A couple of themes were "Heart Attacks" and "Egging". A "Heart Attack" included color paper hearts either blank or with happy words, or positive actions noticed. "Egging" was usually done around Easter. Paper eggs where often colored with words including "Your eggcellent", "Thank you for being a good eggsample."

This habit is one that followed mee through college and the mission field. It is one I might need to take up

again.

Just before the end of my mission I received a Valentine's package from my mother. In it was...

Heart shaped sticky notes. I was so excited! "Heart Attacks" were now so much easier! I am certain at least one district and zone leader fell victim, as well as various others.

From that time sticky notes have come out in a variety of shapes and colors. I often find it hard to pass up a new style. It is to such a level that I have a drawer at work dedicated to them.

One might think with as many as I have I wouldn't get excited about getting any more. What a mistake. I am continually delighted with new ones. These were received from my Little Man for Christmas.

The Good Lord And The Man

2010-02-01T13:18:00.004-07:00

I was listening to the Radio when this song came on. Loved it. Found it. I am sharing it with you!!!

Artist: Rich John
Album: Son Of A Preacher Man
Well he was one of the millions
who signed up to defend us
long ago in 1941
when they sucker punched us in Pearl Harbor
he fought under Macarthur seventeen with an army Thompson gun

Well he stormed a lot of beaches slept in jungles with the leaches
he saw things young man should never see
and when they shot him in the shoulder
he got back up and he marched over
left a lot of brothers dead in kawagalie

If it wasn’t for the good lord and the man
there wouldn’t be a breath of freedom in this land
and I see people on my T.V. taking shots at uncle Sam
I hope they always remember why they can
cause we’d all be speakin’ German livin’ under the flag of Japan

if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man
if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man

Well I’m the grandson of a soldier and I’d fight the whole world over
if duty called and freedoms on the line
but thanks to the greatest generation and the ones still fighting for our nation
I’ve never had to kill for my way of life

If it wasn’t for the good lord and the man
there wouldn’t be a breath of freedom in this land
and I see people on my T.V. taking shots at uncle Sam
I hope they always remember why they can
cause we’d all be speakin’ German livin’ under flag of Japan
if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man

if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man
there wouldn’t be a breath of freedom in this land
and I see people on my T.V. taking shots at uncle Sam
I hope they always remember why they can
cause we’d all be speakin’ German livin’ under flag of Japan

if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man
if it wasn’t for the good lord and the man

Lyrics from :
http://www.cowboylyrics.com/

Monday Memory Moment

2010-01-25T20:53:00.002-07:00

Here are some more pictures from my recent trip to Moscow.

This is a picture of what is now the Art and Architecture South building.

This is my favorite building on the University of Idaho campus.

At the top of the building is a sword. It was originally an armory and gymnasium.

And of course...we had to get Boyd in a shot...

Give it a try...

2010-01-15T09:45:00.001-07:00

Working at a residnetial treatment facility has it's perks. I have access to more than one therapist for free counseling. (he,he--) However, as most teachers will tell you, we are in part counselors. This advice was shared by a fellow teacher.

for those of you veiwing this facebook or email go to my blog: alwaysmee.blogspot.com

Monday Memory Moment

2010-01-11T15:42:00.003-07:00

Last week I told of making snowmen.
My friend, Amy, must have enjoyed it as much as I did.

She scapbooked it. She upload these pages on facebook and said I could share them on my blog.

It looks like my memories are similar to her documentaion.

Thanks for the pictures!!!

Visitors

2010-01-08T19:55:00.002-07:00

After ringing in the new year at a single adult dance I spent the rest of the day with guests. You may recognize them.

Monday Memory Moment

2010-01-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

There are some things we do just to make memories. Some of these events may seem senseless to those who don't know the value of those memories. Todays pictures are from last week. Turtlebug came to visit mee and determined my snow was perfect. As we worked on our creations my mind went back to the last time I recall making snowmen.

From 2000-2001 I worked for the University of Idaho. As an employee I was not as free to go home for all of Christmas break as the students were.

One evening Mikey, Amy and I were up late when we noticed it snowing outside. We turned off the lights and rearrange the furniture. We sat on the couch and watched it snow. Amy, a California girl, mentioned she had never built a snowman. Despite the hour (it was at least midnight) we went next door to the institute to build snowmen.

Amy's original attempt at a snowman included piling snow to build what looked like a volcano. And I thought rolling a snowball was skill one was born with. How wrong I was. She was a fast learner. After completing what was our Sister Snowman in the back of the building we headed to the front.

There we decided to see who could roll the largest snowball. Each ball was easily 3 feet (or more) in diameter. When we went to stack them we realized we could not lift them. Amy, being the resourceful one, flagged down a car of boys to help stacking our snowballs.

We ended with a 4 foot female snowman to greet people as they came back to school in the back door and a 9-12 foot snowman to greet people coming in the front.

A New Job!!!

2009-12-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

I have been keeping a secret. Some of you knew something was up. I called and asked to use people as referrences. I even called asking for an address I lived at for two months. Many many details were needed. It is complete. It is official.

Starting TODAY I am working as a Special Eduation Teacher for Sequel Youth and Family Services. That's right as of today. If you follow the link you may notice Sequel seems very similar to Three Springs.

That is indeed the case. Similar, but not identical. Sequel acquired Three Springs facilities and employees. Although I am now a Sequel Employee I still work at Three Springs...for now anyway.

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

2009-12-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

Today, while pondering in church I thought about what I might say if someone asked mee what I wanted for Christmas. I tried to think of how I might tell someone there was no gift they could give that would compare with the gift we were given in Christ. Nor, the further gift to have the fullness of the gospel on the earth today with prophets and apostles. What better gift is out there? I was also trying to figure out how I might share these thoughts in a blog post.

I don't think there is anything wrong with having a holiday season of food, family, and gifts. It seems rather fitting, in the United States of America, to welcome in the winter months with a Thanksgiving Celebration for all we have been given to maintain throughout the winter. Then to continue for a month or so of various gatherings that will keep your spirits high when the weather might seem otherwise.

My concern is that the traditions may be happening without the meaning. I remember a student commenting once she didn't know why there was a star on the top of a Christmas Tree. I had someone else mention we could decorate for Christmas as long as it wasn't religious. huh? I continue on my path of how I want to Celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

After church today I went to lds.org to find something to watch or listen to. There I noticed they had a new topic page for Christmas with the title of; Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas. Here The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has already posted videos and ideas all in one place. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Merry Christmas!!!

free to blog....

2009-12-16T17:51:00.002-07:00

Today, I would like to thank Mr. George Washington. Not just Mr. Washington, but all those who stood with him, who faught along side him. I would especially like to thank those who died fighting for the cause Mr. Washington believed in.

I do not speak only of those who lived in the same time as Mr. George Washington. I also speak of those who have strived to maintain the prinicples of a free people thoughout time. Thank you for your efforts with quill, grand oratory, or musket rifle for allowing mee to be free... to have this blog and post this picture... which was found some where on the internet...(I didn't create it...I am not taking credit)

Monday Memory Moment

2009-12-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

There aren't many things I remember having all of my life. I have a mouse I named Mickey. (I was very creative as a child. I also have a blanket which was made by my great-grandmother, Ella Glasgow. It is yellow with Raggedy Ann.

I don't remember being a big fan of Raggedy Ann and Andy. I do remember watching the show.

colder...

2009-12-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

I like many have been commenting today about how cold it is. 14 degrees, the current temp, is better than the -13 wind child we had this morning. The wind chill right now is -1. This is according to my WeatherBug which reads from the Mountain Home Air Force Base.

With all the comments I still remember is being colder. To test I memory I decided to look it up. With the help of the National Weather Service and KBOI I found the following information.

as of this date (12/8/09) these are still record lows...
December 1990---I was 12 and a seventh grader...
20th: -8
21st: -23
22nd: -25
23rd: -18
24th: -20
25th: -20
29th: -17
30th: -9

I still remember standing out for the bus, which was late, because it was too cold to start the engine.

Oh...and in case you are interested 0 was the record low for December 7th in 2009.

What was that about global warming?

It is now down to 10 degrees...

Monday Memory Moment

2009-12-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

I got to Texas on December 3rd. I don't remember that day being cold. The next day however was colder than I expected Texas to be. It was December. It was also the Christmas Season!!!

I don't know who created the Texas Fort Worth Mission Christmas Program. However, we were directed to share it with as many people as we could. I remember going to our Bishop asking for his support. We were asking the ward members to have have us in their home to share it with them and their friends. We were a little surprised at his approach.

During Sacrament Meeting he asked the members to sustain President Gordon B. Hinckley as the Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It was 2002. He then asked us to stand. He reminded the congregation that we had been called as full-time missionaries by the prophet they had just sustained and he expected them to support us in our efforts.

I greatly enjoy the program we were asked to do. I actually lead the program last year for the Young Single Adult (YSA) Branch I was in at the time. I have been in the family ward for a year. I was presently surprised when the YSA Branch Preseident called mee last week and asked mee to do the Christmas program from them again this year.

I hope to include enough details for you to be able to enjoy reading it, or share it with your family and friends.

Materials:
Hymnal to include songs listed. Numbers are from the 1981 LDS Hymnal. If all the links are working you can follow them to printable and playable music. The songs are meant to be sung.
Scriptures to include New Testement and The Book of Mormon. The verses are meant to be read.
Globe, something for a Star
I also like to use a nativity set with pieces.

If you are reading this in facebook you may need to go to my blog for the links to work.

www.alwaysmee.blogspot.com

I gave it a title...enjoy...

A NEW STAR

Begin with prayer
Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful, no. 202

Matthew 1:18-23

   18 ¶ ^aNow the ^bbirth of Jesus Christ was ^con this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

  19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick ^aexample, was ^bminded to ^cput her away privily.

  20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a ^adream, saying, Joseph, thou son of ^bDavid, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the ^cHoly Ghost.

  21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his ^aname ^bJESUS: for he shall ^csave his people from their sins.

  22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

  23 ^aBehold, a ^bvirgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his ^cname ^dEmmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Luke 2:1-7

   1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all ^athe world should be ^btaxed.

  2 (And this ^ataxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

  3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

  4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called ^aBethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

  5 To be taxed with Mary his ^aespoused wife, being great with child.

  6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

  7 And she brought forth her ^afirstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the ^binn.

O Little Town of Bethlehem, no. 208, first verse

Luke 2:8-14

   8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

  9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the ^aglory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

  10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you ^agood tidings of great ^bjoy, which shall be to all people.

  11 For unto you is ^aborn this day in the city of David a ^bSaviour, which is Christ the ^cLord.

  12 And this shall be a ^asign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

  13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

  14 ^aGlory to God in the highest, and on earth ^bpeace, good will toward men.

Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains, no. 212

Luke 2:15-20

  15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

  16 And they came with ^ahaste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

  17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

  18 And all they that heard it ^awondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

  19 But Mary kept all these things, and ^apondered them in her heart.

  20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

****At this point we would talk about the special feelings of a mother for a child. You could do this in general or specifics. Tonight I asked a friend who is new to the restored gospel about here feelings around coming to know the truth.

Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, no. 209

Matthew 2:1-11

  1 Now when Jesus was ^aborn in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

  2 Saying, ^aWhere is he that is born ^bKing of the Jews? for we have seen his ^cstar in the east, and are come to ^dworship him.

  3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

  4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he ^ademanded of them ^bwhere Christ should be born.

  5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,

  6 And thou ^aBethlehem, in the land of ^bJuda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a ^cGovernor, that shall ^drule my people Israel.

  7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.

  8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

  9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

  10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

  11 ¶ And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and ^afrankincense, and myrrh.

With Wondering Awe, no. 210

Get your star in the sky. The find Bethlehem on your globe. (As missionaries we often used a balloon. This got the kids attention. We would ask some on to draw on it.) Talk about the star in the sky. The wise men saw it travel far.

We know that the world turns. If they noticed it maybe there were many others who noticed it too.

The Book of Mormon tells us of people on what is now the American Continents who were also looking for a sign to tell of the coming of the Savior of the world.

As in many cases there are believers and non-believers. In this case the non-believers were going to kill the believers if the sign didn't come by a certain day. That day...is tomorrow.

A prophet in the land is taking his concerns to the Lord...

3 Nephi 1:11-13, 21-22

  11 And it came to pass that he went out and bowed himself down upon the earth, and cried mightily to his God in behalf of his people, yea, those who were about to be destroyed because of their faith in the tradition of their fathers.

  12 And it came to pass that he cried mightily unto the Lord ^aall that day; and behold, the ^bvoice of the Lord came unto him, saying:

  13 Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the ^asign be given, and on the ^bmorrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be ^cspoken by the mouth of my holy prophets.

   21 And it came to pass also that a new ^astar did appear, according to the word.

  22 And it came to pass that from this time forth there began to be ^alyings sent forth among the people, by Satan, to harden their hearts, to the intent that they might not believe in those ^bsigns and wonders which they had seen; but notwithstanding these lyings and deceivings the ^cmore part of the people did believe, and were converted unto the Lord.

Joy to the World, no. 201

Our Relationship with Christ***As missionaries this is were we would testify of the living reality of Christ. Doing this with the YSA Branch I have opened it up for the sharing of testimonies.

As always...follow the spirit.

Close with Prayer and song.

Silent Night, no. 204

Monday Memory Moment

2009-11-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

"This was Ella Glasgow's China cabinet. Was used all her married life for her dishes and linens. Was given to Guy and Emma Glasgow at the death of Royce Glasgow in Dec. 9 1986. It was referbished in `87. Royce bought it for Ella in 1925 or `26.

2006, bought for $40 by [Mee] after passing of Emma Glasgow"

This "China" cabinet in now in my dinning area. It also holds some of my dishes and linens.

I vaguely remember it being in Great-Grandma's house. I really remember in in Grandma's house. I remember it being home to some of Granddad's unicorns. I remember it also holding some of Grandma's dishes and linens.

Dear President Obama,

2009-11-25T23:12:00.000-07:00

It has come to my attention that you indent to "[cut] greenhouse gases". While I am in favor of taking care of Mother Earth, I do not agree with your approaches. I wonder, have you considered the "resistance in Congress" could reflect the feelings of the citizens of this great country.

As a voting citizen of the United States of America I choose to express my distaste in your reported plan. When FDR state "...we will not only defend ourselves to the utter most, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us..." he was supported by congress and the people in this country. It was backed by action. I have not seen the evidence of you being supported by a majority of the people whom you are suppose to REPRESENT to the world.

Please learn to listen. Listen to the people who are the people whom you have to selected to SERVE. Listen to those who are there to help you. Listen to those who choose to be free.

Here is a link to the most recent article I have read on the matter.

Laundry Soap

2009-11-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

1 quart Water (not boiling)
1 Bar soap grated...choose your favorite...
1 cup Borax
1 cup Laundry Soda and/or oxyclean

Add finely grated bar soap to the hot water a little at a time and stir until soap is melted. You can keep on low heat until soap is melted. Do NOT Boil.
Put 3 gallons hot water in a five gallon bucket. Pour the soap water into bucket of water and add the Borax and Washing Soda. Stir well until all is dissolved.
Stir until well mixed, it may become foamy. If it get close to the top stop stirring and the foam should go down.
Let sit over night. The compound will gel. Cover.

Use 1/8c or 1/4c with each load of laundry.

Personal note: I prefer this soup for my front load washing machine. I am going to try fabric softener next.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-11-16T21:49:00.000-07:00

For most people using the restroom is not a memorable experience. I don't usually pay that much attention. Most of my foreign language teachers expressed the need to be able to ask for the restroom in the native language. I have seen a variety of different colors and creative methods to indicate location and designate gender. The following may, however, remain I favorite:

I believe it was under the direction of Dr. Kip Jenkins these restrooms where labeled in such a manner. It didn't take long for new comers to catch on..."I am going to visit with Eve."

I do have one favorite memory. It is not very detailed. The Relief Society and Priesthood where having a competition to see which organization could complete the greatest percentage of visits in this particular month.

Of course, it was the last or second to last day of the month. The Institute was full of people trying to visit with their designated people.

Thus, there was no where left to visit privately. I suggested the shower in the women's restroom. There is a good size bench in there. Although it was not ideal...I can say I have been visit taught in "Eve" at the Moscow Idaho LDS Institute of Religion.

Song of the Year

2009-11-12T15:47:00.002-07:00

if you are reading this in Facebook or via e-mail you will want to go to my blog: alwaysmee.blogspot.com Last night I had the Country Music Awards on for noise while I was puddering around the house. When they announced the nominees for song of the year I took note. I don't remember all five. The two that caught my attention were: In Color & Then. Follow this link to my sister's blog and it will tell you why "In Color" caught my ear: "In Color" by Jamey Johnson "Then" by Brad Paisley and others caught my attention because it is most likely the song my sister will be asked to use when she makes a musical / pictoral presentaion for the beginning of my happily-ever-after.

a season of change...

2009-11-11T08:57:00.007-07:00

I was talking with a co-worker last week. I made a comment about how things change. He asked if I was changing. "No, but things around mee are changing."

"So, you have to change."

I recently concluded fall, or autumn, is given to us as a yearly reminder of change. Change is a part of life. Although to can be cold and miserable. It can also be magnificently beautiful.

Changes:

About a month ago we had three more people laid off from where I work for "economic reasons." We lost a counselor, a teacher and a paraprofessional, my para :-(.

Today was the last day for another co-worker, an administrator. Well actually he has about 2 1/2 weeks of vacation. Then, next week will be the last week for another co-worker, a counselor. Gratefully these two co-workers are moving to a new job. It will be a great opportunity for them in their careers. I think it will also benefit their personal lives. With the two addition people leaving us the counselor previously laid off was able to come back.

There are other changes being made at work. On a selfish note...these two leaving mee have been my greatest sources for feedback and comic relief. I am going to miss them.

Saturday, one of my roommates is moving out. This will leave the house emptier. There are pros and cons to that.

My brother-in-law graduates from Basic Training this week. This means my little sister will be moving to Alabama anywhere between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day. (Not positive on the size of that window.)

Sometimes we decide when to start a new life chapter. Sometimes life decides. I am feeling very optimistic. Almost like a seedling breaking through the soil. Although I don't know what the fruit will be. And, there is still a lot of work to do. I am looking forward to the discovery. Hopefully I am able to recognize and harvest the fruit.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-11-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

I believe I was in high school. We had gone on a family camping trip. I remember stopping at the Oregon Trail Interpretative Center in Baker City, OR. On our way back we crossed the Snake River, back into Idaho, at Oxbow Dam. The drive was beautiful as we traveled highway 71.

We decided we would camp in Cambridge. It is a small town where highways 71 and 95 meet. We ended up setting up camp at a small city park across from the LDS Chapel. It is within this park that I first saw a weather rock.

I thought it was great. So much so I have taken various people to see it throughout the years.

One group was a car load of people stuck after a rodeo. We walked up the hill to see the rock while waiting for AAA to come rescue us. I remember standing in the dark. We were admiring the rock when one of the party said, "Who knew this was here to come look for it?"

Cambridge's Ol' Timers Weather Rock

If the rock is wet it's raining.

If the rock is white it's snowing.

If the rock is moving it's windy.

If the rock is hard to see it's foggy.

Ol' timers are never wrong!

Monday Memory Moment

2009-11-03T06:38:00.003-07:00

This weekend I made new memories. I also had a flood of memories return.

I went to Moscow with my Munchkin for the 40th year of SArb reunion and 100th University of Idaho Homecoming. The slide show at the top includes a variety of pictures. Most of them include Boyd. In the up coming weeks I will tell more about the places in individual posts.

Home Sweet Home

2009-10-26T20:38:00.003-06:00

It started with a need, and then a plan.

Then began the gathering of materials.

Then the laborers with improvements and preparations.

A good days work.

Toby's test run.

A satisfied customer...

single-hood-ness

2009-10-25T23:24:00.001-06:00

I don't want anyone trying to deny it. Please, no maxims, or attempted words of consolation. As I see it, it is a fact. Despite prayers, efforts, pleadings, and desire; the time has come to accept what has happened…

Centuries ago, it would have been a widely acknowledged fact. I recognize I was raised with social expectations which differ widely from those perpetuated by mainstream media and culture. I have, in part, examined values and principle within which I was socialized. I am still in the process of accepting or rejecting material tinting my view of the world. Let it be established I have accepted ideas into my platform which makes the follow statement true to myself, about myself.

I, Malinda, am an old maid.

If I were talking to myself I would ask... "Are you bragging or complaining?"

…bragging....

Within the world of the LDS people I have been a Young Single Adult since the day I turn 18. I greatly enjoyed that realm of social connectivity throughout college. My student ward was my family. Thanks to Facebook, e-mail, blogs, and cell phones I am still in contact with many of the people I knew during those years.

I have people complain others pestering them over the matter. I haven't felt that way. I have had people reassure mee that I would get married. I have also never been set up on a blind date. At the age of 22 I had a girl ask mee if I was worried about being so old and single. (laughable, I know). I told her I was odd enough I expected it would take a while to find someone to marry.

Complaining…

A couple of weeks ago I attended a single adult conference. On Saturday morning I was reviewing the program with a couple of sisters I had met the night before. One of them brought a statement from a speaker bio to our attention. I talked about him having a great love and respect for singles.

“Do we have a disease?” was the questions she asked. Are we an alien race or a group with disabilities? Does it take a certain amount of effort to love those who are single?

Although I agreed the statement sounded odd, I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. The Brother the bio was about did an amazing job speaking. One of the things helped mee understand the statement of concern. It also relieved some tension I have felt concerning my state of being single.

“Being single is a burden.”

How is being single a burden? Many might sight all the things I can doing being single. Travel when I want to. Don’t have to worry about making others happy or catering to the needs of others. I only have to clean up after myself and my dog.

Yep, I get to travel, by myself. Well, I take Boyd (see the side bar) along for fun. I have no one to cater for. I have no one to help mee make decisions. I have no one to be alone with. I have no one to bounce ideas off of at 2 am.

I don’t want to be a whiner. Everyone has things they have to deal with. I try to remember all the things I have to be grateful for. I have a job I love. I have a house. I have a very handsome dog…

So here I am to that point where I don’t know how to explain what it feels like…to sit in church without a hand to hold or a companion to share insights with….how conscientious I am about talking with the brethren…how I feel I have nothing in common with young mothers…

What to do…

Pray. Prayer does amazing things. Pray for mee. Pray that you might know what to do for mee. Pray that you might know how to help others who are feeling alone. Pray, pray, pray…

Do something. It may seem silly, or unimportant. Do it anyway. Never let opportunities to serve pass you by.

What not to do…

Don’t treat mee like I am 20. I was 20 once. It was a lot of fun. I am grateful for all the memories I have from that time in my life. I am no longer there.

Don’t think I am strong enough. We are charged with sharing burdens. I am not good at sharing mine.

Speak up...

2009-10-22T21:32:00.003-06:00

There is a lot of stuff going on in the world to day. It is up to us to maintain our freedoms. You need to let your voice be heard. Use this website to find out who to contact and how. Be an active part of the political process.

http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml

Apostle Says Religious Freedom Is Being Threatened - LDS Newsroom

2009-10-18T18:22:00.001-06:00

Apostle Says Religious Freedom Is Being Threatened - LDS Newsroom Shared via AddThis

Monday Memory Moment

2009-10-12T19:22:00.002-06:00

I am pretty sure I haven't blogged about this yet. This painting was given to mee by a friend. She gave to to mee for my 30th Birthday. She said she used bright colors because she saw them all over my house and figured I like them. Picture painted by E.E. Rouse

What is going on?

2009-10-08T21:31:00.002-06:00

I just read/watched a blog post from a facebook friend. I encourage all to see/read it.

"My Dirty Little Political Secret"

Monday Mustard Moment

2009-10-05T20:15:00.007-06:00

I have a very gracious father. I don't know how conversations about increasing a persons allowance might typically go. We may not have had very many of them. "Double it," is the response I remember. 2 x 0 = 0. Dad might have even offered to triple it. We learned to manage money in a different manner.

We lived in Star. Dad worked worked in Eagle (East). Mom worked in Parma (West). We went to school in Meridian (South). By the time I was in high school my older sister was driving. In the course of the week we were the closets ones to a supermarket. Therefore it was decided we would get to do the shopping.

We were given $120-$150 a week. With this money we were to buy the groceries for the week. We also had to have money to fill our car up with gas and buy more milk later in the week. What ever monies were left over was ours.

We got to decided if we bought school lunches or take a lunch with us. It didn't take long to determine it was cheaper to take lunches. I recall making a lot of sandwiches. If I was making them Dad usually wanted one. I recall usually making three or four at a time.

There is something these unsuspecting sandwich receivers may not be aware of. Mustard Art. There was usually a picture of some sort inside. It was usually a smile. So...my family has eaten more happiness than they were ever aware off.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-09-28T18:17:00.007-06:00

While I was a student at the University of Idaho I became a member of the Student Alumni Relations Board (SArb). Which led to the other...loving the University of Idaho because I joined SArb, or joining SArb because of a love for the University of Idaho.

I also liked to say SArb expanded my horizons. I had the opportunity to participate in a number of district and international conferences for the Association of Student Advancement Programs (ASAP).

Here are some pictures from our 1999 trip to Chicago. This indicated my first flight on an airplane.

We went to the Micheal Jordan restaurant. The people in Chicago thought we were weird to walk from our hotel...Chicago is flat...

They were having some sort of street art display with the cows. There were lots and lots of them throughout the city.

We went to a Chicago Cubs game. I can say I say Sammy Sosa play ball.

A few of us adoring our advisor Timmy.

Caring for Your Introvert - The Atlantic (March 2003)

2009-09-24T16:53:00.001-06:00

A friend posted this article, as a joke I believe. I read it to see if it might be of use. (I work with a lot of people.) I was enlightened. Rather, I had something brought to the forefront of my memory...

I have two personalities.

A number of years ago I took a career aptitude test. I was taking this assessment at the University of Idaho Counseling Center. The goal was to gain insight. One should figure out what to do with their life, at some point. After responding to a bunch of word pairs and groupings one area, of six, should receive the highest score, by far.

Nope. All six areas where pretty close. That's mee, a well rounded individual. The two areas that where the highest, might have been off by one point. And, polar opposites. The inspiring words of the counselor..."Now we know why you are having such a hard time deciding what to do with your life." --Give that man a pat on the back--

I have decided being a Special Education Teacher is a perfect fit. I get to be social. I get to play with others. I also need to be rather obsessive-compulsive about paper work.

What did I glean from this article? I need to do more care for my inner introvert.

Caring for Your Introvert - The Atlantic (March 2003) Shared via AddThis

Monday Memory Moment

2009-09-21T20:37:00.003-06:00

If you have not read "The Legend of the Three Trees" I highly recommend it. The first time I remember hearing the story is when Beth read us the book as a part of a Relief Society Enrichment activity. I loved it!

Later, I borrowed her book to read as part of the last talk I gave prior to leaving Moscow. I don't think my Bishop had any idea what he was going to get when he said I could talk about anything I wanted to.

I believe the trees where given to mee by my sister Nancy. She said she remembered how much I loved the story and thought of mee when she saw them bundled together in a set of three. They currently sit on my entertainment center as a reminder of the lesson told by the three trees.

In God We Still Trust

2009-09-17T09:52:00.001-06:00

Think about it...

2009-09-16T10:32:00.000-06:00

I have heard it said, "you are what you eat". I suggest we change it to, "You are what you think."

An EFT program I recently watched stated..."Your consistent thoughts become your reality." This presentation reminded mee of something my mission president often said:

WE DO WHAT

WE FOCUS ON!

As I was sharing these thoughts with a co-worker I remembered something I have attempted teach and practice while working with adolescents. Tell them what you want them to do. For example:

Johnny is talking, walking, and dribbling a basketball. You want him to hold the ball still. If you tell him to "stop". He may not know what you want him to stop doing. If you say, "stop dribbling the ball". The last thing he heard was "Dribbling ball". He may have not processed the "stop". Or, it may take him a longer than you want for him to come up with what else to do with the ball.

If you say, "Hold the ball still". He knows what to do, and the last thing he heard was, "ball still".

What about dieting? What do you think when you think diet? Limit food intake. Don't get to eat sweets. Don't eat, eat, eat. Not what you want to be focused on.

My co-worker introduced mee to this song...She has the little lion guy on her desk which sings the song for her. It keeps her moving...

Invocation

2009-09-15T18:58:00.000-06:00

I have gone to church all my life. I have also attended a fair number of district and international conferences for various organizations. I usually enjoy the welcome and keynote speaker. This week I was pleasantly surprised.

I sat in the Grand Teton Room for the "Welcome" portion of the Idaho Juvenile Justice Association Conference. They had a local scout troop with the Idaho Falls Fire Department Bagpipes and Drums present the colors. Not totally unexpected. Nice welcome. Then they called for someone to give an invocation.

Like I said, I have gone to church all my life. I knew an invocation to be an opening prayer. I have also seen schools replace it with a poem or the likes. Considering an "invocation" welcome of sorts. It was a prayer. I sat in a room full of State of Idaho employees and we prayed.

It gives mee hope. We need all the prayers we can get. Our children need all the prayers they can get. Our government officials, elected and appointed, need all the prayers they can get.

May God bless and keep America the home of the free. Free to worship Him as we so choose.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-09-14T17:25:00.014-06:00

I believe the first time I was in Idaho Falls was during the summer of 1999. After working 72+ hours for six weeks I took time to play. I was visiting some friends in the area. One of the things I was looking forward to was seeing the "Idaho Falls".

I had seen many pictures of the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple. Most of the pictures I had seen placed the temple in the back ground of the water falls on the Snake River. It made for an almost ideal picture.

My feelings were heightened by my family line. My dad's parents were married in the Idaho Falls Temple. My mom's parents were married in the Idaho Falls Temple. My parents were married in the Idaho Falls Temple. I have also wanted to be married in the Idaho Falls Temple.

So one hot day in July I talked a friend into going to see the temple and the falls. As I stood there admiring the seen there was something that struck mee as odd or out of place. Does the water seem to be the in a flowing a very structured manner?

When I saw these straight lines and sharp angle I knew. I knew they were fake. The "Idaho Falls" were man made. I was disappointed...so...This is my new favorite angle of the Idaho Falls Temple.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-09-07T21:50:00.005-06:00

This afternoon while I was working on a quilt I got the urge to watch a movie I hadn't seen in a long, long time. Good thing I own it.

I don't think I can tell you the first time I saw it. I can tell you I have seen it many times. I also remember more than one gathering just to watch one or both movies.

According to imdb.com The Man from Snowy River was released in 1982. I recall this song being very popular while I was in middle school. Maybe it wasn't popular outside the band room. Or maybe it is because Idaho also has mountains and horses. Nevertheless, I have heard it a number or times.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-08-31T20:12:00.001-06:00

I don't recall ever being overly attached to any of my stuffed animals. When I say overly attached I am thinking Linus style. Yet, There are some I currently feel I cannot yet depart with.

Meet Mickey...I know really original. What can I say? I was only a wee lass. In fact, it is my understanding that I have had this poor mouse since before I was one year of age.

I don't recall ever naming my sock monkey. I remember having him when we still lived in Emmett. So, at least since before I was 5. However, I don't recall who gave him to mee.

This is Sister Duck. I got her from my mom for my twelve birthday. She has a pocket on her back. It is suppose to be for p-js. I might have used it for them. She also came in really handy for hiding small objects as part of a primary lesson.

This is Calvin. I got him for my 16th birthday. He got the middle name of the boy I liked at the time. I know, very infatuated girl of mee. Now that I am writing this I am not positive which friend gave him to mee.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-08-24T18:58:00.001-06:00

This week everyone is talking about going to back to school. Mountain Home students, as well as college students returned to campus today.

I, on the other hand have the week off. It is my official summer vacation. So far, I am in the process of doing nothing. I don't believe that will last very long. I tend to prefer keeping busy.

As a child I remember spending a lot of time out side. We would play in the irrigation ditches or find other means of keeping cool.

The summer I turned 16 was the beginning of working summers for mee. That summer I babysat. By the next summer I was working at McDonalds. The following summer I was working at Godfather's Pizza and giving away free food samples at Albertson's. Of all the random summer jobs I have had there is one I will take with mee always.

During my junior year of college I became friends with Jeremy and his twin Jesse. Somehow an interesting fact came up. Their dad had the contract for the finishing carpentry work on the Spokane Washington Temple.

I asked Jeremy if he thought his dad would let me work with them. Jeremy said I needed to call and ask him. That was all it took, I had to ask myself. $6.50 plus room and board, I had a jod for the summer.

I once had someone tell mee I did get paid enough. It wasn't about the money. It was about the job. I got to help build a temple to the Most High God.

Prior to the dedication of the Spokane Washington Temple the Pullman Washington Stake was in the Seattle Washington Temple District. It was a 6 hour trip. I remember some of those trips well.

After the Friday Night Activity we piled on a bus about midnight. I believe we would get to the temple around 6 or 6:30 am. We would them complete one or two sessions, eat, and head home. We would get to Moscow again about 6pm Saturday night.

With the dedication of the Spokane Washington Temple our trips only took 6 hours. One and a half hours there, session, food, one and a half hours back.

What a blessing the temple is to the Intermountain Northwest. And I helped build it.

what a geek...

2009-08-05T21:15:00.000-06:00

Yeah, it's mee, I'm the geek. I like having things spirally bound. It is so nice to have books that you can lay flat, or open all the way.

A couple of months ago I bought a coil binding machine. I have been using to bind whatever I want to.

I have used it to make resources more useable.

And to keep my most read books from falling apart.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-08-03T20:52:00.000-06:00

The desk was build in 1999. Sometime after my mission (2004-05) I decided I needed more. I had an idea in my head as to how I could build shelves to go above the desk. The idea was to have a space for my monitor and shelves around.

Again, with the added wisdom of my father I was able to accomplish a better product than by myself. We were actually able to use a shelving board that was already on hand.

Now that I have a laptop the monitor space works well for storing my sewing machine. And with the same brown paint I now have a new addition to my living room.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-07-27T19:37:00.001-06:00

It was the summer of 1999. I had moved into into my first apartment. (yeah, that was ten years ago) I needed a desk. I had a jigsaw book shelf. I want to say my sister had just made a jigsaw table (or two). With those in mind I designed a desk that would use one 8'x4' piece of plywood.

My father suggested I should use a thicker piece of particle board. Knowing mee I would want to sit or stand on it. I need something that would support my weight.

With supplies in tow to Granddad's house we go...he had all the good tools in his garage. These tools included a straight edge for cutting 4'x8' boards. How sweet is that?

In one afternoon my particle board turned into a desk. A very heavy, sturdy desk at that.

I still had some pink and purple paint left over from painting my shelves. I did want my room to be color coordinated. So... here you have it....

While I was in Moscow the desk maintained this look. Since that time the pink and purple polka dots have been covered with different patterns contact paper.

As for being sturdy. It has not only been used to stand on sit on, but also supported one end of my bed for 9 months. It is about the height of two cinder blocks. This provided for a high bed and good storage in small places. I mainly used the shelves for food storage items. My roommate Tracy found this humorous and would show people on their tours of the house. I don't she was laughing when I was able to produce what she needed from them...

2009: With roommates moving in I decided to move the desk from the "office" into the front room. I was also done with the contact paper. It was time for a paint job.

As I was preparing the desk for painting I thought of making it those ten years ago. The opportunity I had to work along side my dad, and his dad. I have a better desk than I had planned because of there experience earned wisdom. I also realized that was the last real time I got to spend with my Granddad. Thanks Dad and Granddad...

Who you know...

2009-07-22T20:44:00.001-06:00

The phase "It's now what you know, it's who you know that matters", use to really irritate mee. One of the most important thinks I learned is college, it is true.

Although it still irritated mee, I was a little more comfortable with the concept. I have also seen the benefits of knowing the right people.

As I recently reflected on this thought a new one came to mee.

St. John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

A couple of verses on how we come to know God and Christ:

Mosiah 5:13 For how knoweth a man the master whom he has not served, and who is a stranger unto him, and is far from the thoughts and intents of his heart?

St. John7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-07-20T20:08:00.001-06:00

I don't recall when it started. I cannot say he was perfect and read everyday. For the effort, and the blessings, it was worth it. Each morning before school my dad read to us from the scriptures. I remember him Reading from The Book of Mormon. I don't know how many times he read it to us.

After one time of finishing The Book of Mormon he decided he wanted a change. He decided to read us The Bible Story.

We had a ten Volume Set. The Bible stories were beautifully told and illustrated. As you might imagine we were not very awake, if at all, as Dad read to us at 6:00 every morning.

There is one morning I remember well. I believe I was in high school. Although I am sure the whole family was around, I remember Dad and my older sister. The story he read:

"Stories of Queen Esther."

That morning, while sitting around a kitchen table, I learned to love Queen Esther. Her beauty, her faith, her courage tell us that with God nothing is impossible. And maybe, like Esther, I came "to the kingdom for such a time as this."

I am grateful Dad took the opportunity to read The Bible Stories to us. As a missionary I had the opportunity to teach Bible stories to companions who were as new to Christianity. I believe I wouldn't have loved the Bible Stories if it wasn't for this time.

Thanks, Dad

Monday Memory Moment

2009-07-13T19:16:00.005-06:00

I was not able to post last week because I was at a Vandal Family gathering sharing memories.

This is just a quick story about my grandma.

My dad and his brothers are both mechanics. I will often call Dad with a concern about one sound or another. One day while we were visiting his mom she brought up a concerning noise of her own. She reported that each time she pushed on the brake there was a "thud, thud" sound.

Dad asked her if there was anything in her trunk that might be rolling around which could be making the noise. She assured and reassured him that there was not.

So, Dad took the car out for a test drive. I don't believe he was gone very long. Sure enough every time he used the breaks there was a "thud, thud". However, the brakes seemed to be working fine. Dad set out to figure out what was going on.

It wasn't long before dad returned with a "problem solved" air in his stance and a cantaloupe in his hand.

*** this may be one of those, "You had to be there", but even now I find it hilarious. And, it was one of the best cateloupes I have ever eaten.

Independence Day!!!

2009-07-04T08:50:00.002-06:00

You need to watch this...it is beautiful!!!

May we continue in the struggle to meet these ideals.

The Declaration of Independence: A Transcription

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only. He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures. He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people. He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within. He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands. He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers. He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance. He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures. He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power. He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation: For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States: For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world: For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent: For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury: For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies: For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments: For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever. He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us. He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people. He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation. He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands. He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Month in Fast Forward

2009-07-03T19:38:00.002-06:00

I realized all I posted the last month or so are memories or quick links to something else. So here is a quick run through of June 2009.

I started the month with three days off of work and a road trip.

I did some painting at work. This was to keep some boys busy and spruce up the place. I also moved to a new office.

We had a party to celebrate the 29th Anniversary of our fathers' birthday.

I went to the Ward Camp Out at Ice Springs with to of my nieces. Nancy brought the girls out to Mnt. Home. My grandmother joined them and was able to see my home for the first time.

My brother-in-law was accepted into Warrant Officer Candidacy School. See my sister's post.

We celebrated Tyler's news and Ally's birthday with cake.

Next up: 4th of July and Girls Camp!!!

Monday Memory Moment

2009-06-29T18:16:00.003-06:00

After District Meetings we would meet with our District Leader to discuss how things were really going. One day Elder Tau'i Lemafua-Mauigoa had a differnt plan. His plan was to take over the world.

This is Elder T putting some final details on the plan.

Elder Homer and Elder T discussing finer points.

Elder Homer and Elder T clarifying Sister Pearson's assignment.

If I remember right my job was to make sure Canada did not invade from the North while we were taking over the rest of the world.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-06-22T19:10:00.000-06:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of my father. I don't remember what year it was. He had just gotten home from work. He anxiously opened his birthday present.

You may be able to tell more from the raise shoulders and open hand that he is very excited. It was just the watch he wanted!

The part I find most humorous ... he new what he was getting. He circled the watch in the sales ad. He gave us the ad. He gave us the money. All we did was go buy it, and wrapped it. In newspaper, of course.

Yet, he has the excitement of a 4-year-old getting a new toy truck.

I support the Spiritual Heritage Resolution

2009-06-17T21:32:00.007-06:00

While browsing the912project.com I came upon this video:

While viewing this video I was surprised to hear someone, especially our president would say we are not a Judeo-Christian nation. Next I was pleased to know that there is such a resolution proposed. I did find a little more information. See below:

HRES 397 IH

Bipartisan Coalition Supports "America's Spiritual Heritage Resolution"

Monday Memory Moment

2009-06-15T20:03:00.004-06:00

I met Beth at the beginning of my sophomore year in high school. Despite being in different classes I was welcomed by her group of friends. We once decided our parents should never meet. Her mom knew things my mom didn't know and vise versa.

I was delighted when she decided to finish her bachelor degree at the University of Idaho. She not only found herself successful, she found herself in love.

Beth married Jarrod in June of 2000. I was given one of the centerpieces from her wedding receptions.

Beth's dad is absolutely amazing with wood, and her mother with paint. I have a number of crafts their hands have made among the things I don't want to get ride of.

The carousel fits together and with a little help will spin.

Even Toby likes it.

Apostles Recall Historic Sermon by Ezra Taft Benson at a Moscow Baptist Church - LDS Newsroom

2009-06-10T23:14:00.003-06:00

Hopefully the links are fixed now...

This is very interesting. I really enjoyed following the link to the US News & World Report article.

Apostles Recall Historic Sermon by Ezra Taft Benson at a Moscow Baptist Church - LDS Newsroom Shared via AddThis

Happy Birthday Toby

2009-06-08T09:55:00.007-06:00

Last summer a co-worker was trying to sale some puppies. You would be hard pressed to get mee to buy a dog. So many people are willing to give them away. I have considered getting one from a humane society. With that it took mee a long time to convince myself to actually get a dog.

I don't know how often, as a child, we tried to get Dad to allow our dog, Polly, in the house. It wasn't going to happen, "Animals belong in the barn." I don't think I ever really bought into his sentiments.Thus was the case when Melissa moved in with her dog and cat. She would also foster animals for a week or two. It wasn't until I was stilling cleaning up pet hair six months after she moved out that I was converted to "Animals belong in the barn."I had many people suggesting I get a dog. It would be company. I could be protection. I knew if I was going to get a dog I would want it in the house. It wouldn't be very good company outside during cold, snow filled months.

Many people at work knew Matt was trying to sale these puppies. Another co-worker asked mee what I knew. I did know much, but agreed to e-mail Matt and ask him the questions. Thus the conversation ensued. At one point the other co-worker decided she wasn't interested. However, I was beginning to be.

I wasn't sure what German Short-hairs looked like. I google images and thought they were nice looking dogs. I also remembered a friend had a picture of Matt's puppies on his blog. I opened it up to show my assistant what the puppies looked like. It is this picture that led to mee agreeing to take Toby.

The selling price? Two dozen Chocolate White Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut Cookies.

Jesus and John Wayne

2009-06-03T11:31:00.001-06:00

Monday Memory Moment

2009-06-01T23:35:00.001-06:00

I recently realized that as of the 3rd of June I will have been home from my mission for 5 years. I was telling some one today that I spent the last 6 months of my mission telling people I had been out for about a year. This was to keep myself and others from thinking about my return home.

At our district meeting a week before I was to leave my District Leader, Elder Blanchard, had a gift for mee. Since I had one week left he made mee a chain to count down the days. Since there was one week, I got one "link" of a chain. He might be surprised to find out I still have it.

A couple of the Elders took the time to calculate the numbers of hours I had left. They were given permission to call mee each morning with an update. I am glad they did not.

During the last 5 years I have had the opportunity to see all but one of my companions, attend many a mission reunion, a develop more lasting friendships. It was about a year ago, while in Florida, that I was able to hook up with my last companion, Hermana Quiros.

This is a picture of myself, Sister Laird, and Hermana Quiros.

This picture was taken in Oct 2003. Sister Pearson, Elder Homer and I were serving together in the Ft. Worth District.

And again after a trip to Jackson, WY.

As I get further into my mission pictures there will be many stories to tell.

What are you looking for?

2009-05-29T16:45:00.001-06:00

Monday Memory Moment

2009-05-25T20:55:00.003-06:00

I believe we were suppose to be in bed at 8 0'clock each school night. However, this rule have a couple of exceptions.

Doris Day and John Wayne movies...

I believe it is with this exception that I learned to enjoy their films. I have had more than one friend comment on how John Wayne plays similar characters in all of his films...yeah, so...

The movie I remember the clearest from a young age is that of El Dorado. One of the main characters "Mississippi's" full name was reported to be Alan Bourdillion Traherne. Due to this movie when I want to yell at Toby Alan I want to call him "Toby Alan Bourdillion Traherne".

I am not sure when it began or who started it. As I recall for at least the period of time while I was in college someone bought my dad one or more John Wayne movies each year for Christmas. At one time we were working on someone in the family owning every John Wayne movie. I am currently watching She Wore a Yellow Ribbon.

A well know combination of names is that of Doris Day and Rock Hudson. During my last month in Moscow, ID I was a Howard Hughes with some friends looking for a movie all of us would be willing to watch. It was at this time I discovered John Wayne had made a movie with Rock Hudson. It was a perfect compromise for the four of us.

To this day I will tell people I have John Wayne to take care of me when I am sick. So, although he is not family...his face and voice is just as familiar and comforting. So yeah, John Wayne is one of my heroes...

(-: Modern Idols :-)

2009-05-21T19:30:00.000-06:00

You may not know this. My family has a thing for computers. I am a beginner compared to the rest of the family. There are almost as many computers as people in our family. A couple of weeks ago while the family was gathered my dad pointed to my sister and said something along the lines of... "Take a picture and blog about that..." pointing to my sister.

Here it is...my baby sister bowing down before her computer. She heard it "What, me worshiping my computer."

A day or so later I walked into my sisters home to see this and had a thought similar to my father, take a picture and blog about it...

I really don't know what is going on. What it looked like to mee was my 11-year-old niece teaching grandmothers how to do something on the computer. It just makes mee want to giggle.

Monday Memory Moment

2009-05-18T19:15:00.001-06:00

I decided one day that I wanted to paint my room. I recall Dad not being excited. He also didn't say no. What he did was give mee a list. This was a list of things that would need to be done prior to painting.

We lived in an old house. My room, which was shared with various family members, had a carpet which covered only about 85% of the floor. In my process of preparing to paint the room I rolled it up and shoved it out the window. Not sure what dad's exact thoughts were. He did want to know what I was going to do to cover the floor. (The floor did not have the potential of being a "beautiful wood floor.")

I believe I made it through the whole list in one day. Having so diligently and promptly completing the list Dad agreed to buy mee paint. I remember it was a spearmint green color. The floor was painted brown. (Our Unit Coordinator might have wanted a clue about how ambitious I can be about such tasks.)

Painting interior spaces is something I enjoy doing. I think it might have even been the very day I got home from my mission I was informed my parents wanted mee to paint some of the walls in their new home. As a matter of fact I think I am the only one who has painted in their new home. This is a picture of my bedroom. I finished painting it a couple weeks ago.

While I had a pretty good idea what colors I wanted to use I was sold on these two; the lighter color is lifetime the darker color dignity. What sold mee on them? A memory. The only thing I really remember from the exit interview with my mission president was his statement to live a dignified life. Now I have a daily reminder.

The Gift of Life

2009-05-17T19:33:00.002-06:00

Gianna Jessen, Abortion Survivor

Part I

Part II

I am impressed by her faith, her relationship with God, and her message to the world.

Live Life Deliberately

We Believe in God the Eternal Father

Envelope Budgeting

Monday Memory Moment

ON THIS DAY...

June 27, 1844

Daily Events in the Life of Joseph Smith

Monday Mess Making

More Pictures

The Fence

Monday Memory Moment

Transcript of President Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address (1865)

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Fiona

ginger? house

Say... :)

Red Skelton's Pledge of Allegiance

Thank You Soldiers - Veteran's Day/Memorial Day Song

I am American

Flag Day

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Dependence, a weakness

Barack Obama has awakened a sleeping nation

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Phil Vassar, John Wayne Lyrics

Monday Memory Moment

The Gift and Power of The Book of Mormon...

I wonder...

No Child Left Behind embraces 'college and career readiness' / The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com

Resurrection Rolls

Way to go BYU!!!

Values.com | Your Motivational Stories & Inspirational Short Stories Young Examples

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

The Good Lord And The Man

Lyrics from : http://www.cowboylyrics.com/

Monday Memory Moment

Give it a try...

Monday Memory Moment

Visitors

Monday Memory Moment

A New Job!!!

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

free to blog....

Monday Memory Moment

colder...

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Dear President Obama,

Laundry Soap

Monday Memory Moment

Song of the Year

a season of change...

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Home Sweet Home

single-hood-ness

Speak up...

Apostle Says Religious Freedom Is Being Threatened - LDS Newsroom

Monday Memory Moment

What is going on?

Monday Mustard Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Caring for Your Introvert - The Atlantic (March 2003)

Monday Memory Moment

In God We Still Trust

Think about it...

Invocation

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

what a geek...

Monday Memory Moment

Monday Memory Moment

Lyrics from :
http://www.cowboylyrics.com/