Halloween and a Visit from Julia November 3, 2009

Over the last few years my friend Julia and I have been exchanging visits.  It is truly the most lovely thing.   I go to Vegas to see her, she comes to SLC to visit me.  These trips have ranged from a weekend to a full week and have been at all different times of the year.  Honestly, is there anything better than a visit from a friend?  I don’t think there is and our visits are no exception.  We usually pack in a lot of activities and experiences but more than that, we just in enjoy being together.  (I’m still trying to convince her to move her…Someday!).

So it is with this history that made me especially delighted when last Sunday Julia called me and said she’d like to make a visit this week.  She asked if it was ok and if she could stay with me!  I was thrilled!  Julia arrived on Thursday and left on Monday, so it was a nice sized trip that was a lot of fun.

I am including some highlight photos below with descriptions.  Saturday was my Halloween party, which was a great success.  There was practically too many people!  We had fun playing wii karaoke, wii sports, Halloween charades and watching It’s a Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.  We also had a costume contest with entries as diverse as the Norton salt girl, a ladybug and a football player.  I think everyone who came had a good time.  I certainly did.  It was one of the best parties I have ever hosted alone, which was great because I have had a few duds lately.  I needed a win!  Thanks to all who came and made it fun.  The only funny thing about the party is that nobody ate any food/candy.  It was like a dieters party.  Strange hah? So now I have bags and bags of candy that I suppose I will save and give to the sweet stand at Festival of Trees. Still, it is taunting me until then.  Candy, candy, candy…

On Friday Julia and I went up to BYU, saw the museum and had lunch with Anna. They had a neat exhibit using mirrors and light.

Then we did some shopping and Julia looked pretty cute in this hat!

Then Friday night we went to Buca di Bepo which was a place from our mission. Then we stayed the night in the SLC Radison. In the morning we took the tour of the welfare square. Great time!

The Halloween party turned out great. Julia was such a help.

Doesn't the table spread look great! I was so proud.

This is a new friend Caron who was the Norton Salt girl. She made that jacket. Isn't that impressive?

Monday we went for a scenic drive to see what's left of the fall color. It was beautiful.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I really like this picture of me. After the scenic drive we went to Where the Wild Things and loved it. Very creative. What a great weekend!

Does it make all you far away friends want to come out for a visit?  I hope so!  I am always thrilled to have visitors.  Please come!

True to the Faith…Legacy of Pioneers July 24, 2009

Today is a holiday in Utah. We celebrate the arrival of the Mormon pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.   This first party led by Brigham Young was called to leave their homes for the third or fourth time- most of them in a matter of hours.  Gathering their few meager possessions and loved ones, they willingly left all for a better, more free life.  This exodus on the heels of the murder of the prophet Joseph Smith and the  extermination order by the governor of Missouri Lilburn W. Boggs calling for the “the Mormons must be treated as enemies, and must be exterminated or driven from the State”.  In the country founded by religious pilgrims and Christian ideals they were literally kicked out because of their faith.  Making things harder  is that the initial party only knew they were heading west – no more.  Brigham Young didn’t even have an exact idea of the final destination. While on the way Brigham Young happened upon famed tracker Jim Bridger who discouraged the Great Basin as an eventual landing place for the Saints.  Bridger claimed the soil was too salty for crops and the winter’s too frigid.  He recommend they move on to California’s more furtile lands.  However, Brigham Young knew the Saints needed a place that other’s found undesirable, so the Saints could have the peace and space to prosper.   Eventually arriving in the Salt Lake Valley, Brigham and his counselors climbed Emigration canyon and exclaimed by revelation “this is the place”.

The Mormon pioneers continued the exodus until the arrival of the railroad in 1869.  While still difficult, most groups traveled without serious problems.  This all changed in 1856 when two handcart companies, leaving late, found themselves in the middle of a brutal Wyoming winter.  Hundreds died of exposure, fatigue and even despair.  Finally, word came to Brigham Young of the suffering and he sent relief parties out immediately- halting all further addresses at the General Conference, which was occurring when he found out.   To rally the people Brigham Young said:

“The afternoon meeting will be omitted, for I wish the sisters to go home and prepare to give those who have just arrived a mouthful of something to eat, and to wash them and nurse them up. You know that I would give more for a dish of pudding and milk, or a baked potato and salt, were I in the situation of those who have just come in, than I would for your prayers, though you were to stay here all the afternoon and pray. Prayer is good, but when baked potatoes and pudding and milk are needed, prayer will not supply their place on this occasion; give every duty its proper time and place.”

Even with relief, hundreds died in the Martin and Willie handcart companies.  The suffering and sacrifice was great.   Here is an emotional video with President Gordon B. Hinckley describing the price that was paid for religious freedom by the pioneers:

I often think- “Could I have done it?  Could I have been a pioneer?”.  I know that I am a pioneer in some aspects of my life, but I do not physically suffer for my beliefs.  Could I do it?  The simple answer is- “I don’t know”.  I suppose many of the pioneers didn’t know if they could do it before they were forced on the path.

The closest I can come to estimating my physical stamina for my faith is my mission.  Compared to the thousands of miles walked by the pioneers, it is nothing, but to me it was a grueling experience.  With my foot condition I was in serious pain everyday.  Sometimes I handled it well and at other moments I wept in pain.  This was one of the many difficulties of a my mission.  Why did I keep going? The simple answer is I knew it was true.  I wanted to tell the people of Indiana that  God does speak to a prophet today,  He does love us, the Book of Mormon is true, and His gospel has been restored.  This was worth any sacrifice .  The few people I was able to teach made all the achy feet seem like a small price to pay (or at least medium price!).  I am grateful to my companions for walking slow with me and putting up with my bad days! I wonder if the pioneers had bad days where they complained about their aching feet and muscles?  They probably did!

Still, as a group they were amazingly optimistic- even taking time for joyous events while on the trail.  When I think of my mission I had tough days when I wanted to give up, and I was certainly not pushed as hard as the pioneers in any way.  How did they do it?  How did they hold on to their faith so hard that they not only kept walking but danced at night and held concerts to sing the hymns? They even had a band, which preformed along the way.  It’s an inspiration!

I hope  I can face my small challenges with the same courage, happiness and religious devotion as the pioneers.  I challenge all of you to look at their example and with me, try a little harder to serve the Lord each day. This way their legacy will not be wasted or counted for naught.

The pioneer anthem was Come, Come, Ye Saints .  Please listen to it and remember the sacrifices they made on this pioneer day!

Anna’s Present July 16, 2009

I know it is not good to brag about oneself, but let me just say I can be a great present giver.  In fact,  a few years ago my brother claimed I was a bad present giver and I made sure to give him the best present ever- nice strategy Ben! Maybe it is because I don’t have that many presents to give, being single, but I treat it as kind of a game to win or lose at.  My dad was always a hard one to buy presents for (and still is) and so I learned to probe deep for ideas and to try to give from the heart. I have a long track record of giving the best bridal and baby shower gifts- including the longest ahhh! at all of the baby showers I attend (trust me, if you are having a baby then you want me at your shower!).

This last month I was faced with a gift giving dilemma.  What to get my about to go to college sister Anna. She and I are very similar, and she is coming out here to BYU (my Alma mater!). Naturally,  a number of possible gifts such as gift certificates to the theater or a cookbook came to mind.  I also thought of things for her apartment, to help study, or a keyboard practice music on.  All of these gifts would have been fine, but I wanted something more personal.  As is natural, she has been somewhat stressed-out about the beginning of college (even though I know she will do amazingly well).  It is a big change, and as I very well know big changes are scary.  It means saying goodbye to some family, her high school friends and California. (although, she pretends like she is dying which is not true either.  What drama!) I began to think- what could I give her that might be comforting and provide real guidance? Then it came to me- a survival book, full of the advice  I would have wanted when I was in college!

I gathered materials and made the book out of 5 by 7 scrapbooking cardstock and then printed out all kinds of quotes, study tips, Provo restaurant recommendations, coupons for meals/rides/clean room, suggestions such as attending BYU athletics and more.  It ended up being 24 laminated pages with a binding and stickers as illustrations.  Of course, I ended the book with a letter of congratulations and encouragement.  She’s such an awesome sister, and I feel privileged to know her.  In many ways she makes me feel complete and understood in my family- something I often didn’t always feel while growing up (does any teenager?).  I love chatting with her, getting excited about David Archuleta, singing our favorite Broadway songs and giggling over the Office, Glee or some other show.  I am so grateful for all she does for me, and I hope my little present actually helps increase her happiness while at school and provide real concrete guidance when she struggles.  It will be like having her big sister in her pocket whenever she need’s it.  (Of course, I will be here in real life as well- just around the corner- despensing hugs, laughs and sister-filled fun). Good luck!

Aloha! May 25, 2009

Hey can’t write because I am in paradise.  Love it!  Here is a video hello that I took today at the beach.

Looking forward to rest May 20, 2009

I admit it today I would annoy Calvin! It's been a stressful couple of days.

I can’t write much but I wanted to update quickly on the craziness of my life the last few days.  First of all, I  moved on Saturday to my new 2 bedroom apartment.  It is much roomier and in a way feels more like a home than my last place.  I will always love that apartment because it proved I could be on my own and be happy.  This apartment feels different but I have high hopes for it as well.  As you can expect the move was stressful and exhausting.  I am so grateful to Easton Brown, Sarah Creer and other friends from church who came to my moving rescue.  It was a hot day and the move took several hours.  As I have often said I am blessed with wonderful people in my life.

With the boxes moved in the next task of unpacking came into play.  (By the way, we have also had people in all 4 houses over the last few days which is great but stressful!).  It is shocking how much stuff I have.  Truly shocking!  Thank goodness my roommate has only furniture for her bedroom and little kitchen stuff.  That was a huge blessing! She hasn’t officially moved in yet but I consulted with her before placing furniture and unpacking my kitchen stuff.  She seems very easy going, and I think we will make a good team.

I am proud to say I finished the unpacking today!  The final step was my office.  I will put up photos of my new place soon. I just love it so much!

In the midst of all this unpacking and working I also had to do my final check out of my old place today.  This morning to be more particular.  I thought I had done a pretty good job with things but the inspector sure found a big list of problems.  By the end of the check out it seems I will be responsible for $200 worth of stuff!  That’s the downside of renting.

Naturally I was in a bad mood this morning but then we added on more stress by having a crisis at work.  I won’t go into the details but one of the houses had some minor vandalism and we had someone checking into the house today!  It was creepy, annoying and exhausting all at the same time.  It ended up taking Jim and I the entire afternoon to resolve the problem.  Luckily the tenants are happy and nothing was seriously damaged or taken except some sheets that had to be replaced.  We are now already in the process of getting alarm systems on all 4 houses.

The other stressful event that happened is yesterday I made the mistake of purchasing an Ikea bookshelf with doors for the kitchen as a type of pantry. We got the bookshelf together easy enough but the stupid doors were impossible.  We literally spent the entire day.  By saying we, I mean my friend Melany Bushe and I.  I think the definition of a true friend is someone who will help you assemble Ikea furniture.  It was a lot of work and the frustrating thing is that it still isn’t perfect.  It wobbles more than it should and the doors don’t line up perfectly!  Part of the problem is they only give you those silly drawings as instructions.  There are always a million ways to go wrong- and usually I find all of them! Oh well!  It will have to do for now.  You know there is a joke about Ikea furniture- How may PHD’s do you need to assemble a piece of Ikea furniture?- 3 one PHD in Swedish, one in Engineering and one in relationship counseling.  Luckily mine and Melany’s relationship is still intact and the friendship will persist despite the trial!

Need I mention that I also have my recital for voice lessons on Friday! I am doing Somewhere Over the Rainbow which may sound like a simple song but in fact it is quite difficult.  It has an octave change with every Some-where and Rain-bow. It is definitely the hardest song I have done at a recital and is a bit of a risk.  I hope it pays off- especially with how little rehearsal time I have gotten lately with the move and all.  Wish me luck come Friday. I wish it sounded like this. 01 Over The Rainbow (Single Version)

Between everything going on I am looking forward more than ever to the tropical paradise that awaits me this Sunday.  Hawaii here I come!  I can’t think of anything more relaxing than lying in the sun with a good book listening to the waves.  I’d give up a meal a day for that pleasure! Every ounce of my sore achy emotional body is yearning for that blessed island.  Thank goodness for vacations by the ocean! I need it real bad!

Happy Easter! He shall reign forever and ever. April 12, 2009

11 Whatever It Takes

On this Easter Sunday I feel grateful for the many blessings in my life. Above all, I am indebted to Jesus Christ for saving my soul from sin and despair. I am an imperfect person but with Christ I can be forgiven and be made whole.  It took a God of the world, a perfect person to atone for mankind’s sin but that is exactly what Jesus did.  In agony He bled from every pore and hung on the cross, so we could be forgiven.  He felt the anguish of every sin, sorrow and moment of grief ever felt by any human ever.   It’s one of those things which is tough to explain but nevertheless  true.  I have experienced moments where I felt alone and confused- where I felt weighed down by my own sins and shortcomings.  In those moments Jesus Christ has testified to my heart that He is real, He does live, and He did die for me.

It is this knowledge that has helped me move  through difficult times to the happy life I currently lead.  I say this knowing others have faced far worse; however, my challenges were still hard for me to experience.  Part of the reason we have been sent here is to be tested and grow strong- how can we do that without some faith-testing opportunities?  Through it all, the Savior has never forgotten me.  I know that He loves me.  I know He listens to my seemingly small problems.  I know these things because I have prayed and gained confirmation for myself that they are true.  I have felt Jesus Christ’s presence as an active force in my life- purifying, comforting and forgiving me each day.

I can’t tell you what comfort it gives me when the world criticizes my life, my appearance, my faith, to know deep down inside that I am loved- and not loved by just anyone but by the God of the Universe, by Jesus Christ.  I feel privileged to have such knowledge but it is by no means limited to me. All men and women can gain a testimony of the atonement of Jesus Christ through faith, prayer and repentance.   I hope He knows I will do whatever it takes to follow Him.  I love Him and  on this Easter I say with the angels “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11)

Let’s not stand gazing into heaven- let’s get out there and make a difference.  Whether it is speaking out on faith-based issues,  finding a day a month to serve, calling an old friend, doing an extra load of dishes unasked, smiling when we want to complain, and so much more.  I believe He wants us to look at His example and then “go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37).   None of us can be saved without His sacrifice and resurrection, but we can all be His helpers down here to spread His gospel.  He has asked us to “be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).  I hope you feel His love in your life.  Your life does matter.  A high price was paid for it.  Let’s try and give back in any small way we can!  He truly shall reign forever and ever! God bless you and thank you for being my friends and reading my blog.  Happy Easter.  Love, Rachel.

Happy Birthday Mom March 10, 2009

“I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.” — Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

A few weeks ago I did an entry on my dad for his birthday.  Now it is my mother’s turn for today is her birthday.  Its almost hard for me to write on my mom without it sounding too effusive.  Simply put, she was born to be a mother.  It is her gift.  She’s a natural nurturer- patient, kind and understanding.  Naturally it took me a while to appreciate all she did for me but now I marvel. Some of the specific things I love about my mom are:

1. She is always there for me.  My mom has 6 kids, which is a daunting number by most standards but these 6 range in age from 30 to 9.  Such an age gap requires my mother to balance the needs of older children with kids, single me, a teenager in high school, a middle school aged boy and a young girl.  Not every mother could multitask her mothering as well as my mom does.  Even though I am very independent I still need the care of my mother.   I am so grateful that we talk almost daily on the phone and visit whenever we can.  The greatest thing is that my mom doesn’t make me feel that the time she spends on me is a sacrifice even though I know it often is.  It might be something as simple as asking her about a recipe or a laundry tip, but I appreciate that she is there for me whenever I need it.

A perfect example of my mom’s help and loving nature occurred last December.  It was the day before our tenants were to arrive at our new house.  I was growing increasingly stressed out because a snow storm was preventing furniture movers, cleaners and other people from arriving at the house.  I had a picture of the people arriving at the house without furniture in a construction zone.  By 4:30 I had all I could take, and I called my mom in tears.  Whatever it was she was doing, she dropped it and helped me calm down.  With the help of my dad and mom, we solved the problem and everything worked out. Not everyone has someone to turn to when they are stressed out, and I am grateful for such a blessing in my life.

2. She actually enjoys her children.  This has always been a great trait of my mother.  When other mom’s were counting down the days for summer vacation to end my mom was sad.  She not only loves her kids but genuinely has fun with them.  When I have exciting news, a funny story or a meet a cute guy, the first person I want to tell is my mom.  We used to tease her that she couldn’t tell a joke or a story to save her life but that never stopped her from making the effort!  Both my parents have always set an example  on how to enjoy life- how to accept who you are and gain pleasure from whatever phase you are in.  They are not worriers, moping about looking for pity.  They are happy with their life’s and taught me to conquer challenges while still remaining happy. I have particularly noticed this trait lately as it seems many unhappy people often surround me- people that are miserable with their station in life.  My mother is great at enjoying the journey of life.

3. She is always learning.  My mother has the intellect to be a college professor, a senator, or any other educated profession; however, she decided to be a mother. Defying stereotypes of the soap opera watching housewife, my mom has always been a self-learner.  My whole life she has been up-to-date on current events  in practically every field.  In addition, she is well-read in philosophy, literature, political theory, horticulture, the arts and every other topic.  It took years in college before I took a class that my mother was not only familiar with but well-versed and informed- sometimes more so than my professors.  When we used to get sick, my mother was the first one to the library (or now the internet) researching the condition, quickly becoming a mini-expert.

She was also  great at creating learning experiences for her children.  I remember going on walks and her pointing out trees, bugs, or birds and then describing something interesting about them- how they live, grow, what colors they become etc.  In college I would often call my mother and go over material with her because I knew if I could explain it to her than I knew I understood the topic  well enough for a test.  On such calls the emphasis was always on what I was learning, not on the grade (both my parents have never been grade-focused, which I am grateful for). I used to think all mothers were like this but have since learned to appreciate the emphasis my mom made on learning and improving oneself.

4. She is always sacrificing.  When I was 10 my mother announced to us that she was pregnant.  As excited as we were, pregnancy meant she  would have to go on full bed-rest.  She underwent this trial two more times- making almost 2 1/2 years of my mother’s life in bedrest (not including what she had for us older kids). I can’t even imagine how difficult this must have been.  It was hard enough for our whole family, but it must have been a nightmare for my mother.  It’s one thing to sit in bed when you are ill but for most of the pregnancies my mom felt fine, yet she still had to sit day and night.  This type of sacrifice is emblematic of the way my mother has lived her life- always thinking of others needs ahead of her own comfort.  She has given countless hours of her life caring for new babies, working on school projects with us, making costumes for school plays,  babysitting grandkids, cooking meals, and making traditions special for her family.  In today’s society we seem to think there has to be an equal link between work and rewards.  The sense of sacrifice previous societies accepted has practically gone away- except with my mom.

5. She is a wonderful nurturer.  Again, when I was growing up I thought all mothers were like my mom- warm, kind, sympathetic.  I have learned that she is special.  She knows how to comfort a crying eye- even at the age of 28! She listens better than anyone I know, and she does it while doing a hundred other things.  Her and my dad would read to us every night growing up and then we would say prayers together.  Rituals like these are all about comfort and love for children.  My mother is wonderful at such things.

6. She is patient.  When I was in high school I felt different from my entire family, including my mom.  Thankfully I never really rebelled, but I am sure there were plenty of moments where she was frustrated with my attitude.  I think the reason I didn’t rebel is because my parents were patient with me . They gave me the space to be myself- to figure out what I wanted.  I have never felt that my parents had preconceived notions of who I was to become or what my life is supposed to be like.  They have just let me be me and accepted that.  Such growth requires patience on the part of parents, and my mother is the ultimate example.

It really is hard to write about my mom and make it sound adequate.  Let me just say- she is wonderful and I love her.  I could not have been more blessed. I don’t have any pictures of my mom by herself (probably because she was busy preparing a meal or taking care of a kid!). Here is one of my mom and dad with my newest niece Nelle Lloyd.

“By and large, mothers and housewives are the only workers who do not have regular time off. They are the great vacationless class.” — Anne Morrow Lindbergh

“I looked on child rearing not only as a work of love and duty but as a profession that was fully as interesting and challenging as any honorable profession in the world and one that demanded the best I could bring to it.” — Rose Kennedy

“My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her.” — George Washington (1732-1799)

Happy Valentines Day February 15, 2009

These are some of the people I love

To all my friends and family-Happy Valentines Day! I hope you all had nice days. I had a very fun day with my good friend Melissa Noyes. We went to lunch, shopping and to the movies (we saw He’s Not that Into You, which I liked- don’t listen to the reviews!).

On a day of love let me say a few things about what love means to me. Love is a tear when we depart, it is the adrenaline on first seeing one another after parting, it is the forgiving kiss of a child, it is a hug from a grandfather, it is a phone call just when I needed one, it is a moment of clarity and self worth, it is a prayer answered, it is sweetness and purity, it is sexy and exciting.  It is all of these things and more. It cannot be summarized or put into words. It just is and we all know it when we feel it. Don’t we all live for that feeling? I do. I will flat out admit I have never been in love with a man but that doesn’t mean I haven’t felt love or know what it means. No, no, I know and that is why I know it is worth the wait.

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I will end with my two favorite summaries of love.

The first is from Shakespeare’s 116 Sonnet-

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds,

Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

It is the star to every wandering bark,

Whose Worth’s unknown, although his height be taken.

Love’s not Time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Within his bending sickle’s compass come;

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks;

But bears it out even to the edge of doom:

If this be error and upon me proved,

I never writ, nor no man ever loved

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The second is from Corinthians.  It uses the word charity, which means Godly love.

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge;

And though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not;

Charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Charity never faileth

The Best Weekend Ever February 8, 2009

Isn’t it funny how the simplest of things can make  for a great couple of days? This weekend has been wonderful.

To begin with I had the best week of work I have ever had- with 15 reservations including people who reserved more than one house! In addition, I have also gained a new real estate client, put in a bid for an event, and worked a Grabber event on Saturday.   It was busy but so profitable!  The cool part is while I was gone they got 1 reservation.  This week I get 15- that certainly makes a girl feel needed!

Another great thing about this week is that I got to spend time with tons of friends starting with one of my best friends  Melissa Noyes (we went to dinner on Wednesday).  Then I also had phone conversations with Raelene Bradley (who I just stayed with) and Julia Graves (who I saw in December).  I also made a new friend named Sunnie  in my ward this week and we got together with another girl named Bonnie for games on Tuesday, which was fun.

So I was already riding on a great week when the weekend came.  To begin with on Friday I had a wonderful conversation with my sisters Anna and Megan, which is always a highlight of my week.  This was particularly special because Friday was Megan’s birthday.  We are exactly 2 years and 2 weeks apart (you can bet we had combined birthday parties growing up much to my youthful chagrin!).  I wish I could have been there for her birthday but it was nice to chat-as it always is.  There is definitely no one I would rather talk to in the world than my mother and my sisters.

After the phone calls I went and met my friend Miriam for an afternoon movie.  We saw Slumdog Millionaire, which I loved.  I know it is rated R, but I felt that it was one of the most beautiful and hopeful movies I have seen in a long time.  In a way it does paint a brutal depiction of poverty (which earns the R) but in another way it maintains the feeling that hope, peace and love are within reach to any one- no matter their situation.  The lead character remains remarkably innocent despite all that he has to deal with in his life.  The feel and look of the movie was like nothing I have ever seen.  Just beautiful.   When I compare it to the Dark Knight, which left me feeling dark and gloomy despite its PG-13 there is no comparison. At least that is my rationalization right there.  I really enjoyed seeing the movie.

After the movie Miriam and I went to lunch and talked for a good hour about work, family, life and of course the movie.  She is such a terrific friend who I have known for over 7 years. We just have a connection of friendship and understanding that is great.  We think the same way about most everything.  Next to sitting with my sisters, there is nothing better than talking with good friends like Miriam.

Once I got home I had a few hours to work (where I got a reservation- thank you).  Then a group of my friends came over for a belated Birthday party- Sarah Creer, Megan Steinberg, Emily Hancock, Adrienne Jensen and Melanie Bush.  We had a great time eating yummy cupcakes that Melanie brought (thank you Melanie’s mom.  They were really good!).  This was  group of friends from all over my life but we jelled well together and had a great time talking and eating cupcakes.  Plus, Sarah and Megan got me a flirty apron which I really wanted.   Check out the website http://www.flirtyaprons.com/cart/.  I know it is lame to say but they really are so cute! The only thing missing from our little group was Camille who is currently stuck down in Mexican Hat.  Next year hopefully we will all be a group again.

It was just a simple gathering of friends but it made me feel very loved.  The whole day made me feel loved and special.  Indeed, I am special to have such amazing people in my life. I have often thought I must have done something great in the heavens to be deserving of such wonderful people that surround me.  I think of people who are lonely, who don’t have friends or close family, and I count my blessings.

So, clearly I was having a great weekend. Then Saturday happened.  We had a Grabber event in the morning.  It was at the Romp to Stomp charity snowshoeing race near Park City.  For the event we gave out free warmers and encouraged the racers. (It is kind of like a 5k run but with snowshoes).  I am counting this as my day of service for the month even though technically I was paid for manning the booth.  Still, it felt like serving the community and it was a lot of fun (even though it was early in the morning.  You have to admire those snowshoers for starting a race at 9:00 am!). While working I got to spend time with my Uncle Jim, who is my lifesaver, and my good friend Jodi Evans, who was my best friend while getting my MBA.

For the rest of the day I worked on reservations and got 2 people checked into the houses (or I should say Jim got 2 people checked into the houses).  When 6:30 rolled around I actually..hold your breath..had a date.  I must admit that I asked a certain guy out and we had a great time.  The cruise encouraged me to be bold and to find guys that I have things in common with and then go for it.  You will have to call me to learn more but it was a lot of fun, and I hope he asks me out again.  Regardless, it was nice to have a date.  We went to see the show at Hale Theater Orem, which was hilarious.  You’all know that entertainment-wise live theater is my favorite activity in the whole world.  The play was called Room Service and I guess it was turned into a Marx Brother’s comedy.  The physical comedy of the actors was superb.  Very funny! I didn’t realize that the guy I asked wasn’t a huge theater person but he still enjoyed it.  He had never been to Hale Theater before (I know it is hard to believe!) but hopefully last night’s show was a good introduction.  After the show  we went to dinner and had wonderful discussions. We ended the night with a hug (just a hug for all you that are wondering!) and a promise to do it again soon. We will see.  It is always so hard to tell.  Like I said, it was nice to have a good date.

So, now it is Sunday and I will be off to church soon.  I don’t know how this weekend could get any better.  Aren’t I the most blessed person ever? I certainly feel so today.  My life is amazing, awesome, good, great, wonderful (you get the idea).  Oh, and I am smiling for real! (see below)

The last two weeks- Mexico, Cali and a surprise at the end February 2, 2009

It is almost difficult to put into words the last few weeks.  This will no doubt be one of my longer entries.  So much has happened!

Without boring you with a day by day travelogue let me just share some photos and memories.

To begin with my roommates Erika, Nicole and Kizzi were great. They welcomed me as their friend and were good about including me in activities.  I can’t say how grateful I was for their kindness. Here we are looking quite pretty- if I don’t say so myself.  That’s Nicole, me, Erika and Kizzi.

During the cruise we had 3 days at sea and 3 days at port.  We visited Puerta Vaerta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.  There were also 2 formal days on the boat including on my birthday! (How perfect is that!).   The picture above is actually from formal day #2.  My roommate Erika did my hair and Nicole had just about everyone we saw sing happy birthday to me.  In fact, it was funny because the people in Cabo finding about my birthday kept offering me shots.  I could have been quite hammered by the end of that day if I drank!  It was a great birthday.  I felt like a princess all day.  I even had the boat guitarist serenade me with My Girl- all the other girls were jealous!

The most interesting thing about the cruise is that I met people I would never have otherwise.  I was definitely the nerd of the ship.  Its hard to explain but I learned to be a little bit less judgmental- a little more accepting of what I might call “high maintenance” characters.  I had no one else to be friends with and was warmly accepted.  I never want to be judgmental of anyone, and I feel that I am better person as a result of going on this cruise.

In addition, I had to be bold and  introduce myself to new people every second- many times people I felt I had nothing in common with.  I had to find the common ground and make friends.  I also had to be comfortable in my own skin in a new way.  This is something I feel very strongly about.  Everyone should be able to spend time by themselves, pondering, and feel happy with just being alone. I read four books on the cruise alone and wrote in my journal every day.  It was a great opportunity. Plus, it was a lot of fun. Here I am relaxing on the boat.

The ports were my favorite part by a long shot.  In Puerta Vaerta all of my new friends went ziplining but I didn’t want to go, so I signed for an exclusive beach resort excursion.  We went to this beautiful beach resort with the best pool I have ever seen.  (Anyone who knows me understands how much I love pools).  It was amazing.  They had this taco bar that was delicious- as well as a buffet and a restaurant.  The jacuzzi tub was also great.  While soaking in the jacuzzi tub I started talking with some of the resort guests and believe it or not one of them knew my uncle Vernon and had actually seen him as their doctor.  Small world!

Our second port was Mazatlan.  This I also loved. It was cool because my friends ended up getting scooters, and I didn’t want to do that. Instead, I signed up for a trolley tour.  On our second stop I ran into some other friends from the cruise ship who had rented a van.  They had space, so I ended up going with them for the rest of the day.  We went to another resort called El Cid that had an awesome beach. Below are pictures of the resort, beach and my friend Ashley who I hung out with in Mazatlan.

I unfortunately forgot my camera in Mazatlan so I am waiting to get more photos from friends.  Isn’t that pretty though?  Plus, I felt it was a blessing that I was led to people I could spend the day with.  That was great.

The final day at port was Cabo and it was actually my least favorite.  It was fun because it was my birthday, but I hated getting on the water taxis.  They didn’t have a ladder,  so I had to get practically shoved onto the front of the boat.  I ended up getting my arm bruised from banging up against the boat.  That was too bad and kind of embarrassing.  Still, it was fun spending the day with Nicole and the Lover’s Beach was beautiful.  Next time we will have to spend all of our time there. Here is lover’s beach.   Someday I will have to go there with someone I love!

I just love the ocean so much.  I have yet to go to a beach I haven’t loved.  I hope someday I can live by the beach. It is a fantasy of mine.  I love everything about it- the sound, the swimming, the sun, the feel of the sand.  It’s just heaven.

I had a great time on the cruise; however, I don’t know if I will go on one again.  The ports were great but the days at sea were a little bit more of a drag.  Still fun, but not quite as much fun.  A cruise feels like a casino/night club all the time, and if you don’t drink or gamble you are excluded from a lot of the supposed “fun”.  I did get a manicure and pedicure one day and we went to karaoke 3 nights but that gets old after a while.  I think I would rather just go down to one of the resorts with a group of friends.  They were amazing and so reasonable.  It would be fun for like spring break with friends.  Anyone interested?

So in the end I loved the cruise.  It was a great experience all around.  I challenge any of you to challenge yourself.  Try something new, make new friends, step out of your comfort zone, and I know you will find it to be as rewarding as I did. The other nice thing about the cruise is that for one week I was email/cell phone/tv and internet free.  I am kind of an addict when it comes to these technologies and it was nice to know I did not need them.  It was also nice to have a conversation with someone without hearing “oh sorry, I have to take this call…”.  It was the first vacation I have taken in years without a computer and it was great. I am glad that I do not need those things to have a good time.

Once I finished the cruise I met up with my friend Raelene Bradley.  I stayed with her family for 4 days and had a great time.   I also got to see my former roommate Emily Alvillar Whitman and I meet her baby and husband (they are fantastic, such a great family).  It was funny going from a huge group of singles, to hanging out with my married friends.  It feels like a different world, but equally wonderful.  Seeing both groups helped me remember that there are many ways to be a good Latterday Saint.  It’s funny because the world would group us all as the same- all Mormons- but in reality we are very different and live a huge variety of lifestyles.

One of the highlights of visiting with Raelene was going to Hollywood and Santa Monica.  I have never seen these sights and it was fun to finally do it.  I know how hard it is to do stuff with a baby and I am grateful for Raelene and Jordan for taking the time to give me the tours.  It was great spending time with Raelene.  She is one of my favorite people. After spending a week with strangers it was nice to see people that I have a history with as well.

On Thursday I said goodbye to Raelene and family, and I thought I was going home; however, I wouldn’t have believed what was coming up!  Because I was traveling on a free coupon I had gained from volunteering my seat last April in Hawaii (volunteering means you give up your seat on an overbooked flight in return for usually a free ticket).  I volunteered twice last year and I do it whenever I can. Because I was using the free ticket I had to connect through San Francisco.  Originally I was annoyed by this but it ended up being great.  After arriving in San Francisco my flight to Utah announced they needed volunteers.  I immediately offered to do it and it was accepted.  I thought I would be going on the next flight at 7 pm (3 hours).  I worked for most of the three hours but had a good time waiting.  Then 7 pm came along and they asked for volunteers again!  I asked if I could do it twice in one day and they said sure!  I called Megan and she agreed to come pick me up, so I volunteered again- that’s 2 free plane tickets in about 3 hours! Not to shabby!  It was very exciting. Plus, I got to spend the entire day with Megan, Seth and my adorable nieces.  I was surprised how much fun I had in only a day visit.  It made me want to come again for a long weekend or just a couple of days.  In some ways a shorter trip is more fun because it is less pressure for all involved.

So, now I am home and back in my apartment.  It really does feel like coming home.  As much as I love vacationing (and am not looking forward to the stress of this week..) it is still great to be home and away from my suitcase.  I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to travel but I am also greatly blessed by wonderful friends who love and support me and a life that I love.  Isn’t that great- I love my life.  I love my family, my friends, my apartment, my job, my faith, and my whole life.