Can I tell you, dear reader, how excited I am? I get to spend three days with Alison Wonderland, Bythelbs, Madhousewife, Flip Flop Mama, Mother of the Wild Boys, Regally Blonde (Janelle), and Susan M (sorry for no linkage. I'm in a rush).
Happy Birthday to me!
I hope you have a great weekend, too. Before I leave, here is something to make you think of Las Vegas. Even though we won't be doing what he sings about. Figures.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Quick Idol Re-cap (week 2 finalists)
Okay, so I also sped through this show --I skipped all of the blah, blah, blah stuff and went straight to the good stuff. Like hearing Brooke White (I sure love her Carole King-ish voice)! And seeing who actually made it to the Top 12.
My thoughts:
*Hooray for Allison Iraheta! I was so glad she got through. And after hearing her sing again, I decided she truly is awesome.
*I was sad that Megan got beat out by Kris Allen, but he was decent, so it's okay. My fingers are crossed that Megan will make it as a Wild Card...
*Adam Lambert is still creepy, yo. But hey, at least he's got the rocker thing going and I honestly think he looks good in the eye-liner (I do!). And it's good that Nick didn't get through --I love him, but not for this!
I know I cheated and listed 7 possibilities this week, but did you notice that all 7 were "down to the wire" and I still got the Top 3??
It must be a gift.
Or maybe I've just watched 8 seasons too many...
What did you think?
My thoughts:
*Hooray for Allison Iraheta! I was so glad she got through. And after hearing her sing again, I decided she truly is awesome.
*I was sad that Megan got beat out by Kris Allen, but he was decent, so it's okay. My fingers are crossed that Megan will make it as a Wild Card...
*Adam Lambert is still creepy, yo. But hey, at least he's got the rocker thing going and I honestly think he looks good in the eye-liner (I do!). And it's good that Nick didn't get through --I love him, but not for this!
I know I cheated and listed 7 possibilities this week, but did you notice that all 7 were "down to the wire" and I still got the Top 3??
It must be a gift.
Or maybe I've just watched 8 seasons too many...
What did you think?
American Idol Week 2
I watched this quickly --didn't listen to the judges or any of the in-between stuff. I focused solely the singers (hooray for TiVo!). Also, I didn't read Flip Flop's post (the link is in the previous post) so I would be completely unbiased:
Jasmine Murray: Wow. Umm...she was out of tune a lot. I mean, she recovered at the beginning pretty good after the first flat run, but the end...? I was so disappointed. She has an amazing voice (amazing, yo!) and it was not what I thought it was going to be. Oh, well. At least she looks great?
Matt Giraud: COLDPLAY!? Whoah. I love that song, btw. LOVE IT. Not really him, just the song. Anyway...okay. He sounded out of breath during the whole song, and his vibrato made him sound out of tune. I didn't like it. At all. Dude, you can't sing like Chris Martin, and unfortunately, this song is still new enough that everyone is going to be thinking Chris Martin. Sadly, his interpretation did not work.
Jeanine Vailes: Ouch. Totally affected; out of tune and weird intensity. The last few measures were good --but the rest was awful.
Nick Mitchell: I know he's being a total crazy, and it's all a joke, but I'm tellin' you people --I love this guy. I think he's hilarious! And the best part?? He sings BETTER than half of the people who are taking it seriously. (Except maybe that one high note in the middle.) I hope he doesn't get through just because he's so obviously acting (duh --he even said he was), but I think he's awesome. And I LOVED the last note. I laughed out loud! Love him. Love him!!
Allison Iraheta: Heart, eh? I love this song --adore it, really. And FINALLY! Someone (besides Nick) who picked a song that not only fits their voice, but their personality as well. I loved it! I thought she did Awesome! I can definitely see her in the final 12. Oh, and I really love her hair.
Kris Allen: Cute guy! I didn't like the key change in the middle of it, but hey! He was in tune, it fit his voice, and it was believable. I liked it! I could see him doing well, too --like Allison.
Megan Joy Corkrey: I love her voice --but you have to understand that I love voices like Adele and Norah Jones, and she fits right in with them. Wow, she's gorgeous, too! The hip dancing was awkward, but I thought she did a fabulous job! Another good one. Bam! Three in a row. That was nice AND refreshing. She just needs to stop wiggling her hips. Seriously. Stop.
Matt Breitzke: I was trying to figure out what it was about him that was bugging me, and I realized it was the slow-moving dancing. This song needs some...I don't know...sharp movements? Maybe? Yeah, umm...okay. He did okay. It didn't blow me away, but he didn't suck it, either, so that's good. He's a likeable guy, but it wasn't that great. Oh, well.
Jesse Langseth: Ooh! Kim Carnes! Huh. I don't like her voice --or maybe it's with this song? It just seems that there's not much variation in notes? Or something? So, it sounded boring and the same. And kind of...ummm...muffled? I don't know. I just didn't get it/like it. But that's okay.
Kai Kalama: He's kind of yummy! I mean...ahem...ooh, look over there! Okay. Umm...he did okay. Lots of okay's today! Wow. Anyway, he sounded good --I really like his voice --but it wasn't anything exciting or mind-blowing. Just okay.
Mishavonna Henson: She's actually pretty good. I don't think I like this song choice of hers, but I really like her voice. And she pulled it off just fine. But once again --I wasn't blown away or anything. Huh.
Maybe I'm just not impressed today?
Adam Lambert: He's kind of creepy to me. When he smiles, he looks great! But when he sings, he creeps me out. Why is this? My molly-Mormon-prude-ness? Perhaps it's because he's just creepy? Who knows. I am pregnant, though, so it could just be hormones. Anyway --his song was...meh. I guess I'm just not impressed. He has great stage performance, and the voice was pretty good, but I wasn't in love with it. I don't get it. Not him --me. I don't get why I'm so weirded out by all of these performances. Anyway, he did okay --some of it was fabulous, but some of it sucked. So, I don't know...
Who could go through to the Top 12:
Nick Mitchell (because people are funny that way), Allison Iraheta, Kris Allen, Megan Joy Corkrey, Matt Brietzke, or Adam Lambert.
Huh. So, even though this week was "whatever" to me, I have to admit they had much better singers than last week. Figures. Maybe that's why I picked 7 instead of 3? Not fair? Cheating? Whatevs. You know --like the whole show was last night.
What did you think?
Jasmine Murray: Wow. Umm...she was out of tune a lot. I mean, she recovered at the beginning pretty good after the first flat run, but the end...? I was so disappointed. She has an amazing voice (amazing, yo!) and it was not what I thought it was going to be. Oh, well. At least she looks great?
Matt Giraud: COLDPLAY!? Whoah. I love that song, btw. LOVE IT. Not really him, just the song. Anyway...okay. He sounded out of breath during the whole song, and his vibrato made him sound out of tune. I didn't like it. At all. Dude, you can't sing like Chris Martin, and unfortunately, this song is still new enough that everyone is going to be thinking Chris Martin. Sadly, his interpretation did not work.
Jeanine Vailes: Ouch. Totally affected; out of tune and weird intensity. The last few measures were good --but the rest was awful.
Nick Mitchell: I know he's being a total crazy, and it's all a joke, but I'm tellin' you people --I love this guy. I think he's hilarious! And the best part?? He sings BETTER than half of the people who are taking it seriously. (Except maybe that one high note in the middle.) I hope he doesn't get through just because he's so obviously acting (duh --he even said he was), but I think he's awesome. And I LOVED the last note. I laughed out loud! Love him. Love him!!
Allison Iraheta: Heart, eh? I love this song --adore it, really. And FINALLY! Someone (besides Nick) who picked a song that not only fits their voice, but their personality as well. I loved it! I thought she did Awesome! I can definitely see her in the final 12. Oh, and I really love her hair.
Kris Allen: Cute guy! I didn't like the key change in the middle of it, but hey! He was in tune, it fit his voice, and it was believable. I liked it! I could see him doing well, too --like Allison.
Megan Joy Corkrey: I love her voice --but you have to understand that I love voices like Adele and Norah Jones, and she fits right in with them. Wow, she's gorgeous, too! The hip dancing was awkward, but I thought she did a fabulous job! Another good one. Bam! Three in a row. That was nice AND refreshing. She just needs to stop wiggling her hips. Seriously. Stop.
Matt Breitzke: I was trying to figure out what it was about him that was bugging me, and I realized it was the slow-moving dancing. This song needs some...I don't know...sharp movements? Maybe? Yeah, umm...okay. He did okay. It didn't blow me away, but he didn't suck it, either, so that's good. He's a likeable guy, but it wasn't that great. Oh, well.
Jesse Langseth: Ooh! Kim Carnes! Huh. I don't like her voice --or maybe it's with this song? It just seems that there's not much variation in notes? Or something? So, it sounded boring and the same. And kind of...ummm...muffled? I don't know. I just didn't get it/like it. But that's okay.
Kai Kalama: He's kind of yummy! I mean...ahem...ooh, look over there! Okay. Umm...he did okay. Lots of okay's today! Wow. Anyway, he sounded good --I really like his voice --but it wasn't anything exciting or mind-blowing. Just okay.
Mishavonna Henson: She's actually pretty good. I don't think I like this song choice of hers, but I really like her voice. And she pulled it off just fine. But once again --I wasn't blown away or anything. Huh.
Maybe I'm just not impressed today?
Adam Lambert: He's kind of creepy to me. When he smiles, he looks great! But when he sings, he creeps me out. Why is this? My molly-Mormon-prude-ness? Perhaps it's because he's just creepy? Who knows. I am pregnant, though, so it could just be hormones. Anyway --his song was...meh. I guess I'm just not impressed. He has great stage performance, and the voice was pretty good, but I wasn't in love with it. I don't get it. Not him --me. I don't get why I'm so weirded out by all of these performances. Anyway, he did okay --some of it was fabulous, but some of it sucked. So, I don't know...
Who could go through to the Top 12:
Nick Mitchell (because people are funny that way), Allison Iraheta, Kris Allen, Megan Joy Corkrey, Matt Brietzke, or Adam Lambert.
Huh. So, even though this week was "whatever" to me, I have to admit they had much better singers than last week. Figures. Maybe that's why I picked 7 instead of 3? Not fair? Cheating? Whatevs. You know --like the whole show was last night.
What did you think?
WINNERS! And It's My Birthday, Yo
I don't like it when people wax poetic for paragraphs on end and then finally get to the big You-Won! announcement. So, here are the winners of my Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-way:
The book goes to...Christy!
The jewelry goes to...Cardalls!
The onesie goes to...cornnut32!
(I promise it was random, btw.)
Congratulations, guys! If you could email me and let me know your addresses, I'll get them to the fabulous ladies providing you with your prized merchandise. And thanks to everyone who entered! But don't be sad --I'm sure I'll have another contest some day! Oh, and another big thank you to Annette, TaLaisa, and Sara for providing the great prizes! You guys rock.
------------------------------
Last night I had a wonderful dinner with some high school buddies. It was a late night, but oh, so worth it!
Thank you Rachel, Julie, Stephanie, and Kim for the fabulous night! And may you continue to look like you haven't aged in 12 years...
--------------------------------
I will try to get my AI post up later today --and maybe even the results later tonight. But no promises! If you want a good re-cap, you can go see Flip Flop Mama's post...
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It's my birthday. Whoo-hoo! I'm 30. Usually I would do some big post about how great I am, but not today. (Just read last year's!) Instead, I will leave you with something I heard from an awesome, fabulous, wonderful friend of mine (she lives down the street and I teach her kids piano lessons). This is on her blog, and I think I need to apply it to my life immediately:
The secret to having it all...is believing that you do.
And with that, adieu, dear reader! Tomorrow I am heading to Las Vegas, so I'll see you on the flip side! Or Tuesday. Whichever comes first...
The book goes to...Christy!
The jewelry goes to...Cardalls!
The onesie goes to...cornnut32!
(I promise it was random, btw.)
Congratulations, guys! If you could email me and let me know your addresses, I'll get them to the fabulous ladies providing you with your prized merchandise. And thanks to everyone who entered! But don't be sad --I'm sure I'll have another contest some day! Oh, and another big thank you to Annette, TaLaisa, and Sara for providing the great prizes! You guys rock.
------------------------------
Last night I had a wonderful dinner with some high school buddies. It was a late night, but oh, so worth it!
Thank you Rachel, Julie, Stephanie, and Kim for the fabulous night! And may you continue to look like you haven't aged in 12 years...
--------------------------------
I will try to get my AI post up later today --and maybe even the results later tonight. But no promises! If you want a good re-cap, you can go see Flip Flop Mama's post...
-----------------------------------------
It's my birthday. Whoo-hoo! I'm 30. Usually I would do some big post about how great I am, but not today. (Just read last year's!) Instead, I will leave you with something I heard from an awesome, fabulous, wonderful friend of mine (she lives down the street and I teach her kids piano lessons). This is on her blog, and I think I need to apply it to my life immediately:
The secret to having it all...is believing that you do.
And with that, adieu, dear reader! Tomorrow I am heading to Las Vegas, so I'll see you on the flip side! Or Tuesday. Whichever comes first...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Blah
Yesterday was awesome (and extremely busy, but everything fell into place, so Huzzah!), but today is so blah.
Blah, blah.
Blah.
The only light at the end of this Blah-tunnel is dinner tonight with some high school friends I have not seen in years and years and years. Plus, I guess since it's all blah with nowhere to go, I can finish the laundry. AND --tomorrow's my birthday (and there's still time to enter my give-a-way!).
But this post is totally lame.
So, to spice things up a bit, I will ask you three questions. Answer them! (please?)
1. What is your favorite candy bar of all time?
2. Do you like to hike and/or camp?
3. Where do you see yourself in Five Years? Honestly?
Blah, blah.
Blah.
The only light at the end of this Blah-tunnel is dinner tonight with some high school friends I have not seen in years and years and years. Plus, I guess since it's all blah with nowhere to go, I can finish the laundry. AND --tomorrow's my birthday (and there's still time to enter my give-a-way!).
But this post is totally lame.
So, to spice things up a bit, I will ask you three questions. Answer them! (please?)
1. What is your favorite candy bar of all time?
2. Do you like to hike and/or camp?
3. Where do you see yourself in Five Years? Honestly?
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
A Reason Utah is Better Than California
There aren't many, but here's one of 'em:
I stood in line at the DMV for approximately 10 seconds. The lady looked at my info, entered it all in, gave me my new plates and registration, and I was out of there in less than 10 minutes.
Surprisingly, this is not limited to today. Last summer-ish, I went to the DMV to get my new UT Driver's License. I had the same experience there, although it was a different office.
My experiences with California DMV's equated long lines, multiple crowds, rude employees, and frustration on end at all the hidden fees.
I am now having a great day!
I stood in line at the DMV for approximately 10 seconds. The lady looked at my info, entered it all in, gave me my new plates and registration, and I was out of there in less than 10 minutes.
Surprisingly, this is not limited to today. Last summer-ish, I went to the DMV to get my new UT Driver's License. I had the same experience there, although it was a different office.
My experiences with California DMV's equated long lines, multiple crowds, rude employees, and frustration on end at all the hidden fees.
I am now having a great day!
Crazy Dreams. That's About It.
My dream last night:
I went to see a good friend star in a play, and although he lives in Boise, we were in the former Civic Auditorium in Blackfoot, ID. I was in the audience with about 5 of my fellow 1997 graduates, and all of them were named Jeff. I think. And then suddenly, I was in the play with my friend. They handed me the script and told me to memorize it on the spot. But then it got weirder because my friend pulled me behind the curtain and started kissing me. This was weird because I remembered still being married to Brandon, but more importantly, my friend is gay. This must have caused me some consternation because in the next instant, I was in Admiral Adama's quarters on the Battlestar Galactica. However, Admiral Adama was not Admiral Adama, he was my FIL, and we were chatting about cylons and politics while eating stew (which, incidentally, was dinner last night).
And then I woke up to pee.
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I have so much to do before Friday. The worst on the list is this morning --registering our California vehicle in Utah (finally!). Who wants to stand in line at the DMV with #4 and me? Anyone? Anyone?
*crickets chirping
Sigh.
--------------------------
Not much else to talk about. We didn't do anything worth mentioning over the weekend --lots of chores and then laziness. But it was nice to go to Church together (all 6 of us) for the first time in 2 months! It's amazing the things you miss...
Farewell for now. Don't forget to enter my Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-way! It'll still be open until tomorrow night...
----------------------------
So, dear reader, have you had any interesting dreams before? Anything fun going on in your life right now?
I went to see a good friend star in a play, and although he lives in Boise, we were in the former Civic Auditorium in Blackfoot, ID. I was in the audience with about 5 of my fellow 1997 graduates, and all of them were named Jeff. I think. And then suddenly, I was in the play with my friend. They handed me the script and told me to memorize it on the spot. But then it got weirder because my friend pulled me behind the curtain and started kissing me. This was weird because I remembered still being married to Brandon, but more importantly, my friend is gay. This must have caused me some consternation because in the next instant, I was in Admiral Adama's quarters on the Battlestar Galactica. However, Admiral Adama was not Admiral Adama, he was my FIL, and we were chatting about cylons and politics while eating stew (which, incidentally, was dinner last night).
And then I woke up to pee.
----------------------------
I have so much to do before Friday. The worst on the list is this morning --registering our California vehicle in Utah (finally!). Who wants to stand in line at the DMV with #4 and me? Anyone? Anyone?
*crickets chirping
Sigh.
--------------------------
Not much else to talk about. We didn't do anything worth mentioning over the weekend --lots of chores and then laziness. But it was nice to go to Church together (all 6 of us) for the first time in 2 months! It's amazing the things you miss...
Farewell for now. Don't forget to enter my Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-way! It'll still be open until tomorrow night...
----------------------------
So, dear reader, have you had any interesting dreams before? Anything fun going on in your life right now?
Monday, February 23, 2009
Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-Way! Hooray!
That's right, folks! I'm turning 30 (not like I've mentioned it all month) this week, and so I've decided to have a give-a-way. But not just any give-a-way --A Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-Way!
(I can feel your excitement now.)
Best part? I have three prizes, which equals three winners!
Best-est part? You have a chance to earn up to three entries!
Best-est-est part? The prizes rocketh. The awesomeness of each is only surpassed by their attractiveness.
Serious.
Here are the prizes (in no particular order of awesomeness):
1. Annette Lyon's brand new novel: Tower of Strength! Annette will send you a signed copy when it is released in March. This prize rocks because Annette is a great author, and I've actually had the opportunity to read Tower of Strength [in fact, look for the blog post on March 4th, where I will have an exclusive interview with Annette and we'll talk about her new book!] --it's a fabulous historical romance, and as you can see from the book cover below, it takes place when the Manti Temple was being built. Hooray for new novels!
2. Jewelry from TaLaisa! The winner of this prize will win a pair of homemade earrings (see the pictures below). This prize rocks because TaLaisa has amazing talent when it comes to making jewelry (I know this because I have a pair of her earrings myself--which I adore--AND she was featured in Bead Trends magazine in January and February). Plus, you get to pick any color you want, either in pearl, crystal, or stone! How cool is that?!
3. A funky giraffe gift set from Sew Sara! Not only is this combo adorable, but Sara has added her own personal touch and style to make it unique. It's a 3-6 month onesie and burpcloth with a funky giraffe applique. The reason this prize rocks is because it is a perfect gift for any baby (boy or girl), and, of course, I will be buying some later (and who doesn't want to be like me?). She has other awesome things in her shop, too --go check it out (please note that she just had a Clearance Sale to make room for all of her new Spring Items--there should be a shop update this week)!
(I can feel your excitement now.)
Best part? I have three prizes, which equals three winners!
Best-est part? You have a chance to earn up to three entries!
Best-est-est part? The prizes rocketh. The awesomeness of each is only surpassed by their attractiveness.
Serious.
Here are the prizes (in no particular order of awesomeness):
1. Annette Lyon's brand new novel: Tower of Strength! Annette will send you a signed copy when it is released in March. This prize rocks because Annette is a great author, and I've actually had the opportunity to read Tower of Strength [in fact, look for the blog post on March 4th, where I will have an exclusive interview with Annette and we'll talk about her new book!] --it's a fabulous historical romance, and as you can see from the book cover below, it takes place when the Manti Temple was being built. Hooray for new novels!
2. Jewelry from TaLaisa! The winner of this prize will win a pair of homemade earrings (see the pictures below). This prize rocks because TaLaisa has amazing talent when it comes to making jewelry (I know this because I have a pair of her earrings myself--which I adore--AND she was featured in Bead Trends magazine in January and February). Plus, you get to pick any color you want, either in pearl, crystal, or stone! How cool is that?!
3. A funky giraffe gift set from Sew Sara! Not only is this combo adorable, but Sara has added her own personal touch and style to make it unique. It's a 3-6 month onesie and burpcloth with a funky giraffe applique. The reason this prize rocks is because it is a perfect gift for any baby (boy or girl), and, of course, I will be buying some later (and who doesn't want to be like me?). She has other awesome things in her shop, too --go check it out (please note that she just had a Clearance Sale to make room for all of her new Spring Items--there should be a shop update this week)!
Here are the three ways to enter:
1st --Leave a comment and your name goes in the drawing.
2nd --Tell me which prize you would prefer to win (even if you can't decide and you say "all three!" it will totally count), and your name goes in the drawing twice.
3rd --Blog about the Super-Duper 30th Birthday Give-a-way, let me know you did, and your name goes in the drawing three times!
Disclaimer: Even though you will have three chances to win, you can only win one prize. Sorry! I'm trying to spread the happiness as much as possible. But! If you leave me your preference, and I draw your name, I will do my best to honor those preferences. Cool?
More Disclaimer: Because of cost, we can only send prizes to people within the United States and Canada (I can't refuse the Canadians. They are my family!).
The Give-a-Way will remain open until Wednesday, February 25th at midnight (MST). I'll draw the names on my birthday (which is Thursday, Feb. 26th! Whoo-hoo!) and announce them sometime that afternoon.
So, get to it!
P.S. One last thought: I want to thank Annette, TaLaisa, and Sara for providing these awesome prizes! They are amazingly talented women and I feel so lucky to know them --you all need to go check out their websites and see more of their fabulous talent -- I promise you won't be disappointed!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Prayers, Please!
My awesome friend, Michelle W., has a 2 year old son who will be undergoing some minor surgery tomorrow. Although they are not scared for the outcome of the surgery (it's fairly routine), it's always scary when a tiny person goes underneath anesthesia.
Could you guys keep him in your prayers tonight and tomorrow?
Thank you!
(Love you, Michelle!)
Could you guys keep him in your prayers tonight and tomorrow?
Thank you!
(Love you, Michelle!)
Friday, February 20, 2009
Graduate School, Kindergarten, and Sunshine
Brandon flew to San Francisco this morning. It's just a quick day-trip --he has his final interview for his application to Wharton today. We'll find out next month if he's been accepted into the program. If he makes it? Classes start the end of April. If he doesn't? We try again or look somewhere else. But I have a feeling he'll make it. He's a freakin' genius (not that I am biased or anything!).
So, if you could...maybe...keep him in your prayers today? I mean, I know it's not a huge deal in the eternal scheme of things, but boy! It sure would mean a lot to us if he could do well and be accepted. A lot, lot.
Thanks.
--------------------------
Speaking of school, Brandon and I have been worried about sending #3 to Kindergarten next year. He has a summer birthday, but he makes the deadline by almost a month. So, we figured he would go --but about five months ago, we weren't so sure anymore. #3 has no desire for academics in any form (just writing his name was like torture to him), and socially he was kind of...umm...nutso. Not in a way that would warrant concern or need for testing --he was just immature. And for a four year old boy, that's normal right? Probably.
Well, his preschool teacher and I spoke briefly a few weeks ago, and I again shared my concerns about #3 starting Kindergarten. Registration is next month, and I figured Brandon and I need to make a decision on what we should do. Keeping him back would mean he'd be more mature for school, he'd be older, and maybe in the future he would do better academically (not to mention the benefit of an older body should he choose to do athletics). But putting him in would mean he'd be with friends, he'd probably be average, and that's about it. He'd be average. And still, the idea of holding him back makes me nervous.
Figures.
Anyway, his teacher told me that his improvement over the last 5/6 months has been vast. She said he is doing very well in math, he knows all his colors/shapes/letters, and even his name-writing has improved. She also said that socially he is doing well --apparently he now sits and listens, shares, and his anger and frustration over simple tasks is gone.
So, Brandon and I (and probably his teacher) still need to go over everything and make a decision, but it's so nice to know that he's improved. I mean, you would think I'd see it at home, right? I do see the behavior issues that have improved (but I chalked this up to age --my experience as a mother has shown me that 3 years olds are HARD. And so, he's been 4 for about six months. That automatically --in my mind --equates easiness. Or much-better-ness.), but it's good to hear it from his teacher.
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Last thoughts:
It's gorgeous here! Lots of blue sky; lots of sun. Unfortunately, even with the snow practically gone, it's still about 36 degrees.
Blah.
But I'll take the sunshine and cold over the cloudiness any day. I love me some sun! (Plus, it totally saves money because we don't have to use lights or heat during the day.) Sun is my saving grace during these months of inside-ness. Plus, with sun, I can justify sending my kids out in the cold for a few hours. They love it! And the bickering goes waaaaaay down when they get some outdoor exercise, wouldn't you agree?
Have a great weekend, dear reader!
So, if you could...maybe...keep him in your prayers today? I mean, I know it's not a huge deal in the eternal scheme of things, but boy! It sure would mean a lot to us if he could do well and be accepted. A lot, lot.
Thanks.
--------------------------
Speaking of school, Brandon and I have been worried about sending #3 to Kindergarten next year. He has a summer birthday, but he makes the deadline by almost a month. So, we figured he would go --but about five months ago, we weren't so sure anymore. #3 has no desire for academics in any form (just writing his name was like torture to him), and socially he was kind of...umm...nutso. Not in a way that would warrant concern or need for testing --he was just immature. And for a four year old boy, that's normal right? Probably.
Well, his preschool teacher and I spoke briefly a few weeks ago, and I again shared my concerns about #3 starting Kindergarten. Registration is next month, and I figured Brandon and I need to make a decision on what we should do. Keeping him back would mean he'd be more mature for school, he'd be older, and maybe in the future he would do better academically (not to mention the benefit of an older body should he choose to do athletics). But putting him in would mean he'd be with friends, he'd probably be average, and that's about it. He'd be average. And still, the idea of holding him back makes me nervous.
Figures.
Anyway, his teacher told me that his improvement over the last 5/6 months has been vast. She said he is doing very well in math, he knows all his colors/shapes/letters, and even his name-writing has improved. She also said that socially he is doing well --apparently he now sits and listens, shares, and his anger and frustration over simple tasks is gone.
So, Brandon and I (and probably his teacher) still need to go over everything and make a decision, but it's so nice to know that he's improved. I mean, you would think I'd see it at home, right? I do see the behavior issues that have improved (but I chalked this up to age --my experience as a mother has shown me that 3 years olds are HARD. And so, he's been 4 for about six months. That automatically --in my mind --equates easiness. Or much-better-ness.), but it's good to hear it from his teacher.
-------------------------------------
Last thoughts:
It's gorgeous here! Lots of blue sky; lots of sun. Unfortunately, even with the snow practically gone, it's still about 36 degrees.
Blah.
But I'll take the sunshine and cold over the cloudiness any day. I love me some sun! (Plus, it totally saves money because we don't have to use lights or heat during the day.) Sun is my saving grace during these months of inside-ness. Plus, with sun, I can justify sending my kids out in the cold for a few hours. They love it! And the bickering goes waaaaaay down when they get some outdoor exercise, wouldn't you agree?
Have a great weekend, dear reader!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Where Did the Time Go?
I just wrote an email with the title:
#1's Baptism
[well, technically, it said her name, but since this is the blog, you'll just have to deal with the anonymity, eh?]
This email title kind of freaked me out. I mean, I remember sending a similar email just yesterday that had the title, "#1's Baby Blessing." I swear I did! Didn't I?
When did she grow up? Isn't she still that tiny baby who I snuggled and held in the night? Isn't she still that little girl who introduced me into an entirely new world called motherhood? Now she's tall, she has big feet, she's losing all her teeth (and getting a very crooked set), she laughs at grown-up jokes, and she reads novels. When did this happen!?
Granted, her baptism won't be until May, but still...it's been almost 8 years. I know to parents with children getting married, going on missions, or heck! entering high school may scoff and laugh at my astonishment at how time has multiplied so quickly --and that's okay. I'm sure I will feel the same way now as I will when she turns 12. And 16. And 18...and goes to college...and gets married...and has her own babies. But for now, I will be grateful my astonishment is only at seeing her reach the age of accountability. Eight years old is still young; I have her for a few years, yet!
It's still weird, though. As per a conversation with my mother:
me: Mom, I'm going to be 30!
mom: I know.
me: Isn't that crazy? Doesn't that just weird you out?
mom: No, not really. It's not weird that you are turning 30 --but it's weird because it means I'm old enough to have a 30 year old! What does it say about my age!?
See. It's weird I have an 8 year old (almost). Where, oh, where did the time go?
#1's Baptism
[well, technically, it said her name, but since this is the blog, you'll just have to deal with the anonymity, eh?]
This email title kind of freaked me out. I mean, I remember sending a similar email just yesterday that had the title, "#1's Baby Blessing." I swear I did! Didn't I?
When did she grow up? Isn't she still that tiny baby who I snuggled and held in the night? Isn't she still that little girl who introduced me into an entirely new world called motherhood? Now she's tall, she has big feet, she's losing all her teeth (and getting a very crooked set), she laughs at grown-up jokes, and she reads novels. When did this happen!?
Granted, her baptism won't be until May, but still...it's been almost 8 years. I know to parents with children getting married, going on missions, or heck! entering high school may scoff and laugh at my astonishment at how time has multiplied so quickly --and that's okay. I'm sure I will feel the same way now as I will when she turns 12. And 16. And 18...and goes to college...and gets married...and has her own babies. But for now, I will be grateful my astonishment is only at seeing her reach the age of accountability. Eight years old is still young; I have her for a few years, yet!
It's still weird, though. As per a conversation with my mother:
me: Mom, I'm going to be 30!
mom: I know.
me: Isn't that crazy? Doesn't that just weird you out?
mom: No, not really. It's not weird that you are turning 30 --but it's weird because it means I'm old enough to have a 30 year old! What does it say about my age!?
See. It's weird I have an 8 year old (almost). Where, oh, where did the time go?
AI Results, Great Friends, and My Birthday!
AI:
*Dude. Ryan! This is a family show --what is up with the innuendos?! I wanted to slap his face.
*I really enjoyed the Jason Mraz "I'm Yours" rendition. It's amazing how good they all sound together! Too bad half of them can't go it alone. *sniff
*Blah, blah, blah. I don't really like all the talk about how everyone "felt" and how they "feel" and what they "think" and what's on their "minds" and if they "agreed" with the "judges"...
*Hooray! I knew Alexis would get in. But they are making her sing again!? What the!? Lame. Huh. It's actually better than last night. Good! That means she should be in the Top 12.
*Aww, Ricky was good. So sad.
*I love that Anoop! I'm so sad Michael got through and not Noop Dawg. *sniff*sniff. But hey! That means two of my predictions were right on, yo!
*But, umm...what about Danny?? I'm so nervous!
*MICHAEL JOHNS!! I LOVE MICHAEL JOHNS! What a treat to see him again. ~sigh~ He has a single coming out?! Oh, wow, wow, wow...
Not that I like him or anything...Ahem...
Carly looks great, btw. And they sound really good together!
Oh, that Michael. He's just awesome! Or just cute. And I'm okay with that.
*Duuuuuude...if it's Tatiana OVER Danny, I will freak out. Freak. Out. Although, hey! Either way, I would have been right. I still want Danny to go through, though...
*YEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!
*Poor Tatiana. She's got her 15 minutes of fame. She'll be okay. I hope.
Look at me, people! I predicted the Top 3. Don't expect such perfection each week, though!
P.S. How much you wanna bet Tatiana becomes a Wild Card!?
P.P.S. #2 was very sad that Tatiana did not get in. "She's my favorite!" says my own drama queen. Figures.
--------------------------------------
Tuesday night was a much needed GNO. My friend Michelle and I went out for Thai food. The best part (besides eating fabulous Thai food) was the conversation, and finding myself with another kindred spirit (yep, it was all Anne-like. Except with craziness!).
Michelle, you rock. We'll do Indian Food next month!
------------------------------------
My awesome friend Amanda just sent me the sweetest note and cutest handmade bookmark in the mail today. Thank you, Amanda! I love it. And I think you are a great friend, too!
-----------------------------------
One week from today, dear reader, I will be 30 years old. Thirty years!
Where did the time go?
Unlike many people I've met, I'm actually looking forward to my thirties. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that I like myself now. I understand life a bit better. I'm also more self-aware as to what I want in life, and I have more self-control over my raging rages. I'm also in a healthier place physically, as well as mentally (yes, even though I'm in therapy. Why else to you think I'm in a healthier place?). My only question is this: Why couldn't I have been 30 for the last 10 years?!
To celebrate this amazing milestone in my life (one of many, I'm sure), I planned something awesomely fun. Next weekend I'm meeting up with some fabulous blogging buddies in the great city of Las Vegas! [Well, okay, Las Vegas was kind of the central place to meet; the city itself was not a reason to go.] We've been planning it for a good while now (6 months?) and I'm getting pretty excited. But how could someone not be excited about a Girl's Only weekend with awesome blogging buddies?! I'll be sure to give you the whole run-down and post pictures after it happens, okay?
Ooh! But here's the best part: since I feel somewhat guilty that not all of us can hang out together for a weekend (wouldn't that be awesome?), I've decided to have a Super Birthday Give-a-way!
Da da-da-daaaa!
But I'm not going to tell you about it right now. Look for the post on Monday --I promise you will love it (and at least 3 of you will win)!
How did you feel when you turned 30? Or are you looking forward to your thirties? What did you think of the AI results show? Do you have awesome friends in your life?
*Dude. Ryan! This is a family show --what is up with the innuendos?! I wanted to slap his face.
*I really enjoyed the Jason Mraz "I'm Yours" rendition. It's amazing how good they all sound together! Too bad half of them can't go it alone. *sniff
*Blah, blah, blah. I don't really like all the talk about how everyone "felt" and how they "feel" and what they "think" and what's on their "minds" and if they "agreed" with the "judges"...
*Hooray! I knew Alexis would get in. But they are making her sing again!? What the!? Lame. Huh. It's actually better than last night. Good! That means she should be in the Top 12.
*Aww, Ricky was good. So sad.
*I love that Anoop! I'm so sad Michael got through and not Noop Dawg. *sniff*sniff. But hey! That means two of my predictions were right on, yo!
*But, umm...what about Danny?? I'm so nervous!
*MICHAEL JOHNS!! I LOVE MICHAEL JOHNS! What a treat to see him again. ~sigh~ He has a single coming out?! Oh, wow, wow, wow...
Not that I like him or anything...Ahem...
Carly looks great, btw. And they sound really good together!
Oh, that Michael. He's just awesome! Or just cute. And I'm okay with that.
*Duuuuuude...if it's Tatiana OVER Danny, I will freak out. Freak. Out. Although, hey! Either way, I would have been right. I still want Danny to go through, though...
*YEEEEEESSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!
*Poor Tatiana. She's got her 15 minutes of fame. She'll be okay. I hope.
Look at me, people! I predicted the Top 3. Don't expect such perfection each week, though!
P.S. How much you wanna bet Tatiana becomes a Wild Card!?
P.P.S. #2 was very sad that Tatiana did not get in. "She's my favorite!" says my own drama queen. Figures.
--------------------------------------
Tuesday night was a much needed GNO. My friend Michelle and I went out for Thai food. The best part (besides eating fabulous Thai food) was the conversation, and finding myself with another kindred spirit (yep, it was all Anne-like. Except with craziness!).
Michelle, you rock. We'll do Indian Food next month!
------------------------------------
My awesome friend Amanda just sent me the sweetest note and cutest handmade bookmark in the mail today. Thank you, Amanda! I love it. And I think you are a great friend, too!
-----------------------------------
One week from today, dear reader, I will be 30 years old. Thirty years!
Where did the time go?
Unlike many people I've met, I'm actually looking forward to my thirties. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that I like myself now. I understand life a bit better. I'm also more self-aware as to what I want in life, and I have more self-control over my raging rages. I'm also in a healthier place physically, as well as mentally (yes, even though I'm in therapy. Why else to you think I'm in a healthier place?). My only question is this: Why couldn't I have been 30 for the last 10 years?!
To celebrate this amazing milestone in my life (one of many, I'm sure), I planned something awesomely fun. Next weekend I'm meeting up with some fabulous blogging buddies in the great city of Las Vegas! [Well, okay, Las Vegas was kind of the central place to meet; the city itself was not a reason to go.] We've been planning it for a good while now (6 months?) and I'm getting pretty excited. But how could someone not be excited about a Girl's Only weekend with awesome blogging buddies?! I'll be sure to give you the whole run-down and post pictures after it happens, okay?
Ooh! But here's the best part: since I feel somewhat guilty that not all of us can hang out together for a weekend (wouldn't that be awesome?), I've decided to have a Super Birthday Give-a-way!
Da da-da-daaaa!
But I'm not going to tell you about it right now. Look for the post on Monday --I promise you will love it (and at least 3 of you will win)!
How did you feel when you turned 30? Or are you looking forward to your thirties? What did you think of the AI results show? Do you have awesome friends in your life?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
AI: Round One!
Here are my thoughts, opinions, and critcisms as I watch (ooh! Immediate coverage!) --oh, and forgive me for not remembering all the titles of the songs. I figured I would put them on there just so we can remember who was who, but I might get them wrong:
Jackie Tone (A Little Less Talk): I love her smile! It's kind of Lorelai Gilmore. I hate her outfit --it's a little too tight for all the dancing she was doing. It's a little over the top, if you ask me. Which is sad, because she's got a good voice. She honestly looks like she's drunk and at a party --and like Randy says, it's very entertaining. I was embarrassed for her. Sorry, but I was. I don't care what they're saying, because I just didn't like it. I LOVE her personality. Love it! But not the performance. I TOTALLY agree with Simon. It was...meh. She should have chosen something else to sing (but whaddya do? Personality versus vocals? With one chance only? I don't know what I would do...maybe she picked right...).
Ricky Braddy (Life and Time song): Nice voice. I'm trying to figure out who he reminds me of, though...hmmm. He blinks too much (nerves, I'm guessing). I like him! He's on pitch, he's taking vocal chances --but that high note wasn't great. In fact, I'm not liking his falsetto at all. But he was in tune, he has a good tone, and it was good. Almost too safe.
Alexis Grace (That Aretha song): I don't know. It's hard to say. She's not blowing me away, but I really like her voice. I guess I just don't like the song choice, because it was so...clippy. Choppy --you know? I think I would have rather heard her sing something with sustained notes (more than the two or three). But she's adorable. I like her. Interesting that Simon compared her to Kelly Clarkson...huh...
Brent Keith (Hicktown): Good country voice --ooh, cute dimples! Song's too safe, but he sounds good on it. He's definitely a country singer! It's hard to say because I don't know how to compare him to others. But I'm thinking he would be better on a ballad...
Stevie Wright (You Belong with me by Taylor Swift): Holy crud --who does she remind me of?! She looks like somebody I know... Anyway, the song starts way too low. Waaaay too low! She's a little flat. She's cute. She has a nice voice. She's totally blowing it! Her nerves are shining through more than any talent. Flat and shaky. Sorry, Stevie, but you blew it, girl!
Anoop Desai (Angel of Mine): Confession time: I have always found men of Indian ethnicity to be very attractive. Or Middle Eastern. Maybe it's an Aladdin thing. I don't know, but I'm likin' Anoop! *blush
Anyway...his voice...I really like it a lot. But this song kind of bugs. Maybe it's because it's too...cheesy? 90's? I don't know. He did pretty good but it didn't blow me away. Yes! That was it! It was sharp! Interesting that even though he didn't do it right --for some reason it still sounded good. Kind of. Huh.
[Is it just me, or HOLY COW, do the judges totally know who they want to go through!?!? Manipulators! Enablers! You're makin' it too obvious! Knock it off...]
Casey Carlson (Every Little Thing She Does by The Police): The wiggle dancing made me snort out loud. She should NOT be singing The Police. It's like blasphemy! Her voice is all "Britney Spears" and she's trying to sing like Sting. It's NOT working. And her mouth is huge when she sings --and yet nothing louder comes out. She's weirding me out, people! Granted, she's gorgeous. But this song doesn't work for her. At All. Yes, Randy! It was weird and wrong! Almost Sick and Wrong. I hope she doesn't cry...oh, don't cry! Stupid Paula --gorgeous women like Casey don't want to hear that all they're good at is being gorgeous. It's like a slap in the face. But she did choose the worst song. The worst.
Michael Sarver (I Don't Want to Be): Weird. I don't like this song the way he's doing it. But I think it's only because I'm remembering what's his face from a few seasons back who sang this and rocked it out. Who was that? Julie, do you remember? He was all Justin Timberlake that whole season, you know? Anyway...okay... I don't know. It's not amazing --and he's too quiet at parts. It's almost like he's humming through it. Not bad, though. Definitely not the train wreck Casey just did. And at least it was believable! CHRIS RICHARDSON! That was it. :)
Ann Marie Boskovich (Natural Woman): She's beautiful! Love her hair. Ooh --was that flat? She seems calm. This is good! Calm is good. Her lips do weird things on the word "feel", but she sounds fabulous! She has the brow crease problem I have --the scowl Brandon talks about that causes my big wrinkle between my eyebrows. Ha! That's funny. Great ending! She sounded really good! I disagree with the judges --I actually think she did a good job. She's got a great big voice, and I thought she did better than they are saying. Huh. I mean, it wasn't the best thing EVER --but compared to what I've heard tonight, I think she's done rather well!
Stephen Fowler (Rock With You by the King of Pop!): Good-lookin' guy! It's okay...I really like his voice. Ooh! It cracked. Crap! Maybe the key is too high? Oh, now I'm sad. Because I liked his voice. I guess I was hoping for better...maybe he should have done a ballad? Like a Stevie Wonder one? Oh, I'm sad. I like him. But that just wasn't great. Sigh.
Paula, that was STUPID. Yes, what's her butt shouldn't have sung The Police. But to say that Rock With You should only be sung by Michael Jackson? Then why do we sing anything not original!? So stupid.
Tatiana Del Toro (I'm Saving All My Love For You by WHITNEY!): Like you could forget who Tatiana is! Okay, her dress is...flowy.
See, people?! She can sing! She's full of drama, but she's a singer. Ooh! Flat note there, though. I didn't like the ending note, but hey, it wasn't half bad! It was pretty good! We can hate Tatiana's drama, and we can think she's crazy, but she has a great voice. Paula liked the last note!? This is why I don't really like Paula. We hardly agree.
Ha! Simon nailed Tatiana on the head!
And more ha! The judges don't know what to do with the person they THOUGHT they put through. HA!
Danny Gokey (Hero): Before he starts, I just have to say that I love this guy. It's bittersweet seeing him, because Jamar should be here with him!! I love his glasses --he looks great! I love how he's wearing a wristwatch. Funny! Okay...singing...great voice! I already knew he would do well, though. YES! He is nailing it! The Falsetto was weird --loved the ending note, because it was so unexpected. Awesome!!!
YAY!!!
I knew he would rock it! Go Danny, go Danny, go Danny!
Aww...there's Jamar in the audience. *sniff *sniff
Hey, so do you think the judges like him?
And I love Simon Cowell. I do. Maybe I'm just getting older and more cynical, but I think Simon makes the most sense most of the time (out of the judges).
Who I predict will go through:
Danny Gokey, Alexis Grace, and either Anoop or Michael Sarver.
Who will probably go through just because the Universe is funny that way:
Tatiana
HA!
What did you think? Who's your favorite so far?
Jackie Tone (A Little Less Talk): I love her smile! It's kind of Lorelai Gilmore. I hate her outfit --it's a little too tight for all the dancing she was doing. It's a little over the top, if you ask me. Which is sad, because she's got a good voice. She honestly looks like she's drunk and at a party --and like Randy says, it's very entertaining. I was embarrassed for her. Sorry, but I was. I don't care what they're saying, because I just didn't like it. I LOVE her personality. Love it! But not the performance. I TOTALLY agree with Simon. It was...meh. She should have chosen something else to sing (but whaddya do? Personality versus vocals? With one chance only? I don't know what I would do...maybe she picked right...).
Ricky Braddy (Life and Time song): Nice voice. I'm trying to figure out who he reminds me of, though...hmmm. He blinks too much (nerves, I'm guessing). I like him! He's on pitch, he's taking vocal chances --but that high note wasn't great. In fact, I'm not liking his falsetto at all. But he was in tune, he has a good tone, and it was good. Almost too safe.
Alexis Grace (That Aretha song): I don't know. It's hard to say. She's not blowing me away, but I really like her voice. I guess I just don't like the song choice, because it was so...clippy. Choppy --you know? I think I would have rather heard her sing something with sustained notes (more than the two or three). But she's adorable. I like her. Interesting that Simon compared her to Kelly Clarkson...huh...
Brent Keith (Hicktown): Good country voice --ooh, cute dimples! Song's too safe, but he sounds good on it. He's definitely a country singer! It's hard to say because I don't know how to compare him to others. But I'm thinking he would be better on a ballad...
Stevie Wright (You Belong with me by Taylor Swift): Holy crud --who does she remind me of?! She looks like somebody I know... Anyway, the song starts way too low. Waaaay too low! She's a little flat. She's cute. She has a nice voice. She's totally blowing it! Her nerves are shining through more than any talent. Flat and shaky. Sorry, Stevie, but you blew it, girl!
Anoop Desai (Angel of Mine): Confession time: I have always found men of Indian ethnicity to be very attractive. Or Middle Eastern. Maybe it's an Aladdin thing. I don't know, but I'm likin' Anoop! *blush
Anyway...his voice...I really like it a lot. But this song kind of bugs. Maybe it's because it's too...cheesy? 90's? I don't know. He did pretty good but it didn't blow me away. Yes! That was it! It was sharp! Interesting that even though he didn't do it right --for some reason it still sounded good. Kind of. Huh.
[Is it just me, or HOLY COW, do the judges totally know who they want to go through!?!? Manipulators! Enablers! You're makin' it too obvious! Knock it off...]
Casey Carlson (Every Little Thing She Does by The Police): The wiggle dancing made me snort out loud. She should NOT be singing The Police. It's like blasphemy! Her voice is all "Britney Spears" and she's trying to sing like Sting. It's NOT working. And her mouth is huge when she sings --and yet nothing louder comes out. She's weirding me out, people! Granted, she's gorgeous. But this song doesn't work for her. At All. Yes, Randy! It was weird and wrong! Almost Sick and Wrong. I hope she doesn't cry...oh, don't cry! Stupid Paula --gorgeous women like Casey don't want to hear that all they're good at is being gorgeous. It's like a slap in the face. But she did choose the worst song. The worst.
Michael Sarver (I Don't Want to Be): Weird. I don't like this song the way he's doing it. But I think it's only because I'm remembering what's his face from a few seasons back who sang this and rocked it out. Who was that? Julie, do you remember? He was all Justin Timberlake that whole season, you know? Anyway...okay... I don't know. It's not amazing --and he's too quiet at parts. It's almost like he's humming through it. Not bad, though. Definitely not the train wreck Casey just did. And at least it was believable! CHRIS RICHARDSON! That was it. :)
Ann Marie Boskovich (Natural Woman): She's beautiful! Love her hair. Ooh --was that flat? She seems calm. This is good! Calm is good. Her lips do weird things on the word "feel", but she sounds fabulous! She has the brow crease problem I have --the scowl Brandon talks about that causes my big wrinkle between my eyebrows. Ha! That's funny. Great ending! She sounded really good! I disagree with the judges --I actually think she did a good job. She's got a great big voice, and I thought she did better than they are saying. Huh. I mean, it wasn't the best thing EVER --but compared to what I've heard tonight, I think she's done rather well!
Stephen Fowler (Rock With You by the King of Pop!): Good-lookin' guy! It's okay...I really like his voice. Ooh! It cracked. Crap! Maybe the key is too high? Oh, now I'm sad. Because I liked his voice. I guess I was hoping for better...maybe he should have done a ballad? Like a Stevie Wonder one? Oh, I'm sad. I like him. But that just wasn't great. Sigh.
Paula, that was STUPID. Yes, what's her butt shouldn't have sung The Police. But to say that Rock With You should only be sung by Michael Jackson? Then why do we sing anything not original!? So stupid.
Tatiana Del Toro (I'm Saving All My Love For You by WHITNEY!): Like you could forget who Tatiana is! Okay, her dress is...flowy.
See, people?! She can sing! She's full of drama, but she's a singer. Ooh! Flat note there, though. I didn't like the ending note, but hey, it wasn't half bad! It was pretty good! We can hate Tatiana's drama, and we can think she's crazy, but she has a great voice. Paula liked the last note!? This is why I don't really like Paula. We hardly agree.
Ha! Simon nailed Tatiana on the head!
And more ha! The judges don't know what to do with the person they THOUGHT they put through. HA!
Danny Gokey (Hero): Before he starts, I just have to say that I love this guy. It's bittersweet seeing him, because Jamar should be here with him!! I love his glasses --he looks great! I love how he's wearing a wristwatch. Funny! Okay...singing...great voice! I already knew he would do well, though. YES! He is nailing it! The Falsetto was weird --loved the ending note, because it was so unexpected. Awesome!!!
YAY!!!
I knew he would rock it! Go Danny, go Danny, go Danny!
Aww...there's Jamar in the audience. *sniff *sniff
Hey, so do you think the judges like him?
And I love Simon Cowell. I do. Maybe I'm just getting older and more cynical, but I think Simon makes the most sense most of the time (out of the judges).
Who I predict will go through:
Danny Gokey, Alexis Grace, and either Anoop or Michael Sarver.
Who will probably go through just because the Universe is funny that way:
Tatiana
HA!
What did you think? Who's your favorite so far?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
So Much Going On...
...praying for our cousins who are trying to adopt their Ethiopian son.
...figuring out the dates for #1's baptism in May.
...not knowing when Brandon will be going back to England.
...hoping Brandon is accepted into school next month.
...getting the van registered (and do I need safety and emissions this year?!).
...accompanying a young girl in my ward --she asked last minute if I would accompany her for her violin recital. Just FYI: Violin accompaniment = Hard. Always does. And this piece is no different! Why did I say yes?!
...needing to find a big-boy bed for #4, who has recently learned to climb out of his crib successfully.
...writing thank you notes to all those people who helped me when I was sick; and making #2 write her thank you notes for the gifts she received on her birthday.
...cleaning the house (as usual).
...planning something awesome for my 30th birthday next week!!
...loving the new season of The Amazing Race and wishing, once again, that I was on the show.
...sighing with relief at my renewed energy, but wishing it was full strength (this pregnancy is making me tired! But I'm not sick. So no complaints!).
What are you doing? Planning? Hoping for?
...figuring out the dates for #1's baptism in May.
...not knowing when Brandon will be going back to England.
...hoping Brandon is accepted into school next month.
...getting the van registered (and do I need safety and emissions this year?!).
...accompanying a young girl in my ward --she asked last minute if I would accompany her for her violin recital. Just FYI: Violin accompaniment = Hard. Always does. And this piece is no different! Why did I say yes?!
...needing to find a big-boy bed for #4, who has recently learned to climb out of his crib successfully.
...writing thank you notes to all those people who helped me when I was sick; and making #2 write her thank you notes for the gifts she received on her birthday.
...cleaning the house (as usual).
...planning something awesome for my 30th birthday next week!!
...loving the new season of The Amazing Race and wishing, once again, that I was on the show.
...sighing with relief at my renewed energy, but wishing it was full strength (this pregnancy is making me tired! But I'm not sick. So no complaints!).
What are you doing? Planning? Hoping for?
Monday, February 16, 2009
And So It Begins...
I think you have to judge everything based on your personal taste. And if that means being critical, so be it. I hate political correctness. I absolutely loathe it.
~Simon Cowell
American Idol voting starts this week! The new format looks like crap, people. I don't like it. Six girls and Six guys will perform tomorrow night (or tonight, depending on when you read this), and then the top THREE will move on to the "finals". That's right. Only one shot, people! After three week of doing this, we'll have 9 people. Then the judges will go in and pick 3 people from the remaining 27 contestants, bringing our Finals to 12 (which is normal).
This means there could be 10 girls and 2 guys. This means it could be all guys. This means that your favorite will only get one chance to sing. That's it. Unless they make it to the top 12.
This makes me mad because I like this stage. I love hearing everyone sing several times before the Top 12 because it gives the contestant a chance to show us what they are capable of. I like having an even number of guys and girls. I like the equality, people! With this? Not fair! Someone will have one off week --and BOOM. That's it. No forgiveness. They will be gone...not to mention how hard it will be when you have more than Three amazing people in each group.
This makes me almost as upset as when they told Jamar he didn't make the top 36. ARGH! I hope it's worth watching this year...
~Simon Cowell
American Idol voting starts this week! The new format looks like crap, people. I don't like it. Six girls and Six guys will perform tomorrow night (or tonight, depending on when you read this), and then the top THREE will move on to the "finals". That's right. Only one shot, people! After three week of doing this, we'll have 9 people. Then the judges will go in and pick 3 people from the remaining 27 contestants, bringing our Finals to 12 (which is normal).
This means there could be 10 girls and 2 guys. This means it could be all guys. This means that your favorite will only get one chance to sing. That's it. Unless they make it to the top 12.
This makes me mad because I like this stage. I love hearing everyone sing several times before the Top 12 because it gives the contestant a chance to show us what they are capable of. I like having an even number of guys and girls. I like the equality, people! With this? Not fair! Someone will have one off week --and BOOM. That's it. No forgiveness. They will be gone...not to mention how hard it will be when you have more than Three amazing people in each group.
This makes me almost as upset as when they told Jamar he didn't make the top 36. ARGH! I hope it's worth watching this year...
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Love Day!
Amanda D, Cardalls, and Julie P have been listing all of the things they love this week. I decided to kind of join them in my own way.
Things Cheryl Loves (in no particular order):
I love Brandon, the kids, my family, my religion, and me.
I love flowers, green grass, thick forests, tall mountains, wide rivers, sunsets, sandy beaches, poofy clouds, sunshine, and rain.
I love music, tv, blogging, writing, reading, laughing, and pondering.
I love friends, long dinners, chocolate, early-morning walks, fireplaces, yellow curry, and naan.
I love old buildings, history, photographs, cobblestones, rain forests, fish tacos, and flip flops.
I love red toenails, green jewelry, long scarves, lipstick, lotion, and board shorts.
I love pianos, clocks, frames, fields of daisies, coastline views, glacier lakes, and the scent of lilacs.
I love falling leaves, sprouting tulips, gentle wind, crackling campfires, novels, socks, and fresh breath.
I love naps, simple schedules, clean countertops, contented children, and guacamole.
I love jeans, online banking, water, Temples, Christmas, picnics, and hoodies.
I love soft couches, long phone calls, holding hands, and the way my husband calls me Beautiful.
I love compassion, conviction, integrity, and compromise.
I love being pregnant, holding my children for the first time, nursing my babies, and finally making it past the potty-training stage.
I love lost teeth, sticky kisses, giggles, snuggles, and singing coming from the bathroom.
I love my life.
I do.
Holy cow, I totally love my life!
But man, oh, man, I cannot wait for Spring. Please, Spring? Could you come before May this year? Please??
What do you love?
Things Cheryl Loves (in no particular order):
I love Brandon, the kids, my family, my religion, and me.
I love flowers, green grass, thick forests, tall mountains, wide rivers, sunsets, sandy beaches, poofy clouds, sunshine, and rain.
I love music, tv, blogging, writing, reading, laughing, and pondering.
I love friends, long dinners, chocolate, early-morning walks, fireplaces, yellow curry, and naan.
I love old buildings, history, photographs, cobblestones, rain forests, fish tacos, and flip flops.
I love red toenails, green jewelry, long scarves, lipstick, lotion, and board shorts.
I love pianos, clocks, frames, fields of daisies, coastline views, glacier lakes, and the scent of lilacs.
I love falling leaves, sprouting tulips, gentle wind, crackling campfires, novels, socks, and fresh breath.
I love naps, simple schedules, clean countertops, contented children, and guacamole.
I love jeans, online banking, water, Temples, Christmas, picnics, and hoodies.
I love soft couches, long phone calls, holding hands, and the way my husband calls me Beautiful.
I love compassion, conviction, integrity, and compromise.
I love being pregnant, holding my children for the first time, nursing my babies, and finally making it past the potty-training stage.
I love lost teeth, sticky kisses, giggles, snuggles, and singing coming from the bathroom.
I love my life.
I do.
Holy cow, I totally love my life!
But man, oh, man, I cannot wait for Spring. Please, Spring? Could you come before May this year? Please??
What do you love?
Friday, February 13, 2009
Brandon and Me and Valentine Stuff
I got this from Susan M. I figured it would be a good Valentine's Day Post since it's about my Valentine (oh, man. That was almost too mushy!):
How long have you been together? Just had our 10th wedding anniversary last month.
How long did you know each other before you started dating? About 20 days or so.
Who asked who out? I asked him why he hadn't asked me out yet, but he technically asked me out first.
How old are each of you? I will be 30 in about 2 weeks; Brandon is 32.
Whose siblings do/ did you see the most? Probably mine, but that's just because some of them live closer.
Do you have any children together? We have Four (with one on the way).
What about pets? We have one cat (a blue-point male Siamese --he's almost 10 years old!).
Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? Not having time to communicate to each other what's going on --schedules, bills, kids, ideas, desires, etc.
Did you go to the same school? College, yes. High school, no.
Are you from the same home town? No --I'm from Blackfoot, ID (born and raised) and Brandon was born in UT, but then lived in Texas, Sacramento, and then finally southern California.
Who is the smartest? Definitely Brandon when it comes to academics. I claim the social smarts, but who knows.
Who is the most sensitive? Probably me, but he's more sensitive then he realizes!
Where do you eat out most as a couple? Thai Food!
Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? I'm not sure; we were in London together, but we didn't travel there together. But we've been to Hawaii and the Caribbean.
Who has the craziest ex’s? Brandon has more of them, but I might have the craziest ones.
Who hogs the bed? Him
Who is more stubborn? Him (although he'd claim it was me!)
Who is more jealous? I don't think we get jealous --I know I get jealous of my time with him, though (because it's so limited).
Who does the cooking? I do, but I miss his dinners the most. Brandon's a fabulous cook!
Who is more social? Me
Who is the neat Freak? Me!
Who wakes up earlier? Brandon --he's always up early.
Where was your first date? The BYU Museum of Art. We walked there from our dorms and ate lunch in the cafe, walked around the museum, and went for ice cream. It was perfect!
Who has the bigger family? I’m one of four kids, and he’s one of three. But he's the oldest grandson of like 37 grandkids (one side), and that doesn't count the many spouses and almost 20 great-grandkids, too.
Do you get flowers often? Not as much as I used to, but enough. :)
How do you spend the holidays? Which holidays? We're not as big on the holidays as we used to be (Christmas is big, though) because it gets more complicated the more kids we have. Plus more expensive. Plus more birthdays! We keep things fairly simple, I think.
How long did it take to get serious? About a week. Or less. And then we were married 8 months later.
Who does the laundry? I do. Back in the day, he'd help me, but he's so busy now, it doesn't make sense.
Who drives when you are together? I usually do now. For years I never did (or would). But now I like to drive. On date nights, though, he drives.
Is your family still growing? Technically yes (we're having another baby), but this is probably going to be the last child. And we're okay with that!
How long have you been together? Just had our 10th wedding anniversary last month.
How long did you know each other before you started dating? About 20 days or so.
Who asked who out? I asked him why he hadn't asked me out yet, but he technically asked me out first.
How old are each of you? I will be 30 in about 2 weeks; Brandon is 32.
Whose siblings do/ did you see the most? Probably mine, but that's just because some of them live closer.
Do you have any children together? We have Four (with one on the way).
What about pets? We have one cat (a blue-point male Siamese --he's almost 10 years old!).
Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple? Not having time to communicate to each other what's going on --schedules, bills, kids, ideas, desires, etc.
Did you go to the same school? College, yes. High school, no.
Are you from the same home town? No --I'm from Blackfoot, ID (born and raised) and Brandon was born in UT, but then lived in Texas, Sacramento, and then finally southern California.
Who is the smartest? Definitely Brandon when it comes to academics. I claim the social smarts, but who knows.
Who is the most sensitive? Probably me, but he's more sensitive then he realizes!
Where do you eat out most as a couple? Thai Food!
Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? I'm not sure; we were in London together, but we didn't travel there together. But we've been to Hawaii and the Caribbean.
Who has the craziest ex’s? Brandon has more of them, but I might have the craziest ones.
Who hogs the bed? Him
Who is more stubborn? Him (although he'd claim it was me!)
Who is more jealous? I don't think we get jealous --I know I get jealous of my time with him, though (because it's so limited).
Who does the cooking? I do, but I miss his dinners the most. Brandon's a fabulous cook!
Who is more social? Me
Who is the neat Freak? Me!
Who wakes up earlier? Brandon --he's always up early.
Where was your first date? The BYU Museum of Art. We walked there from our dorms and ate lunch in the cafe, walked around the museum, and went for ice cream. It was perfect!
Who has the bigger family? I’m one of four kids, and he’s one of three. But he's the oldest grandson of like 37 grandkids (one side), and that doesn't count the many spouses and almost 20 great-grandkids, too.
Do you get flowers often? Not as much as I used to, but enough. :)
How do you spend the holidays? Which holidays? We're not as big on the holidays as we used to be (Christmas is big, though) because it gets more complicated the more kids we have. Plus more expensive. Plus more birthdays! We keep things fairly simple, I think.
How long did it take to get serious? About a week. Or less. And then we were married 8 months later.
Who does the laundry? I do. Back in the day, he'd help me, but he's so busy now, it doesn't make sense.
Who drives when you are together? I usually do now. For years I never did (or would). But now I like to drive. On date nights, though, he drives.
Is your family still growing? Technically yes (we're having another baby), but this is probably going to be the last child. And we're okay with that!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
It's Snowing Outside. And I'm Blogging Inside.
Photos of #2's Birthday Festivities:
Her excitement, her presents, and her "cake" (she asked for cupcakes, so we stuck 6 candles into hers --the kids at the party each decorated their own):
Quote from #2:
"This is the best birthday party, ever!"
Why this quote rocks:
The party consisted of 8 friends, opening presents, decorating cupcakes, eating cupcakes, then playing in the basement with the friends. That's it. And if any of you were reading my blog 2 years ago, you will know why her excitement gives me instant gratification and justification. And unrestrained joy.
Here's the post if you are interested to know why I feel the way I do!
P.S. Not one child complained. Not one!
More P.S. If you read the comments on that post, please notice that lbs is Bythelbs. Yes! She was commenting on my posts before she knew she was commenting on my posts. *sniff *sniff --isn't it beautiful? We were meant to be friends! Or something. Like that.
----------------------------------------
I took #2 and #4 for their check-ups today. It was crazy to know that not only am I now into yearly exams (holy cow!), but nobody needed immunizations today. No shots for another year! Well, until this kid is born.
Oh, yeah! I'm having another one.
Still won't change the fact that I'm happy about yearly exams for the older kids!
--------------------------------------
Having gone almost 4 full days without being able to hold my baby boy, he's been relishing in some mom time today. Now he's taking his nap time on the couch here next to me, and he looks like my baby again --and not the 2 year old he's become! He's so sweet...
Man, I just wanna squish his cheeks!
-------------------------------------
#1 is sick --she's got what I had.
---------------------------------
Brandon will be home on Saturday instead of tomorrow--they are making him stay tomorrow for some meetings. But he WILL be home on Saturday! He will! He must! And he will!
-----------------------------
That is all.
For now.
I Finally Learned How to Ask For Help
Have you ever spent many days or nights alone, wondering why Heavenly Father hadn't prompted anyone to call you and/or help you?
Have you ever sat around, praying for someone to come over, but refusing to just suck it up and call somebody?
Have you ever wondered why nobody cared, and yet the thought of asking for help made you freak out and feel guilty and/or selfish?
This used to be me. Until about three months ago. Honestly, it took me a good decade before I realized that God was not going to steer my parked car. He was not going to send somebody to get myself out of something when I was perfectly capable of calling a friend or a ward member and ask for that help. The funny part? I figured this out in therapy! Figures.
Anyway, since it is no longer me, I did not spend this week in agony like I would have many years ago. Instead, I called a few people. I explained my sickness. I didn't mince words. I asked for a few favors --just a few. Such as: "Could you drive my son to preschool?" and "Could you help me clean my house instead of doing girl's night out like we had planned?" and "Could you do carpool for me?"
These favors I requested snowballed. More people found out how sick I was. Many knew Brandon was in London. Just as many know I am pregnant. And so, people started calling: "Can I bring you dinner?" and "Can I help with #2's birthday party?" and "Can I come over tonight to help clean up and put your kids to bed?"
This morning, fairly recovered, I still accepted offers of help: "Can I take your son to preschool?" and "Can I watch your other sick kids while you keep those dr.'s appointments?"
I have learned something from all of this. [A lot of it can be explained in Michelle L's post over at Segullah this morning.] But what I want to say is this:
We cannot expect people to read our minds. Promptings are real, and God does speak to those who can help others, but for the most part, we need to be the ones to reach out and ask for help. The surprise will come when we realize how much people sincerely want to help, they just didn't realize it was needed! And when we allow this to happen, our lives --and theirs --are truly blessed. Beyond words, really.
So, I want to throw out a HUGE thank you to those who have helped me this week (specifically my buddy Michelle, my neighbor Sue, my VT Kris, my friends Lisa, Cheryl, Susan, Yuki, Andi, and Virginia). And thank you to all my online buddies, even though you were far away or unable to help (but wanted to!) --the love you gave me was still felt. And I really appreciate it!
Last thought:
Just ask for help, people. It may seem hard at first and against all of that "self-sufficient" stuff we learn in the Gospel, but I think we take it way too far. It's not "be so self-sustaining that you suffer needlessly and make your life and your children's lives completely miserable." It is "try hard. And if you can't make it, ask for help! This is the purpose of friendship and love. We need to help each other!"
Have you ever sat around, praying for someone to come over, but refusing to just suck it up and call somebody?
Have you ever wondered why nobody cared, and yet the thought of asking for help made you freak out and feel guilty and/or selfish?
This used to be me. Until about three months ago. Honestly, it took me a good decade before I realized that God was not going to steer my parked car. He was not going to send somebody to get myself out of something when I was perfectly capable of calling a friend or a ward member and ask for that help. The funny part? I figured this out in therapy! Figures.
Anyway, since it is no longer me, I did not spend this week in agony like I would have many years ago. Instead, I called a few people. I explained my sickness. I didn't mince words. I asked for a few favors --just a few. Such as: "Could you drive my son to preschool?" and "Could you help me clean my house instead of doing girl's night out like we had planned?" and "Could you do carpool for me?"
These favors I requested snowballed. More people found out how sick I was. Many knew Brandon was in London. Just as many know I am pregnant. And so, people started calling: "Can I bring you dinner?" and "Can I help with #2's birthday party?" and "Can I come over tonight to help clean up and put your kids to bed?"
This morning, fairly recovered, I still accepted offers of help: "Can I take your son to preschool?" and "Can I watch your other sick kids while you keep those dr.'s appointments?"
I have learned something from all of this. [A lot of it can be explained in Michelle L's post over at Segullah this morning.] But what I want to say is this:
We cannot expect people to read our minds. Promptings are real, and God does speak to those who can help others, but for the most part, we need to be the ones to reach out and ask for help. The surprise will come when we realize how much people sincerely want to help, they just didn't realize it was needed! And when we allow this to happen, our lives --and theirs --are truly blessed. Beyond words, really.
So, I want to throw out a HUGE thank you to those who have helped me this week (specifically my buddy Michelle, my neighbor Sue, my VT Kris, my friends Lisa, Cheryl, Susan, Yuki, Andi, and Virginia). And thank you to all my online buddies, even though you were far away or unable to help (but wanted to!) --the love you gave me was still felt. And I really appreciate it!
Last thought:
Just ask for help, people. It may seem hard at first and against all of that "self-sufficient" stuff we learn in the Gospel, but I think we take it way too far. It's not "be so self-sustaining that you suffer needlessly and make your life and your children's lives completely miserable." It is "try hard. And if you can't make it, ask for help! This is the purpose of friendship and love. We need to help each other!"
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Happy Birthday, #2!
#2 is now Six years old --this is both strange and exciting! I love watching my children age, and with each birthday party, I tend to breathe a sigh of relief. I honestly think it's because it's one more year behind us; one less year to worry about. Of course, that doesn't mean there won't be 60 more years to be worrying...
#2 is delightful, dear reader. I wish you could hang out with her for one afternoon. You'd get a sense of her drama (the girl is seriously a diva! But we're trying to teach her why manipulation is of the devil and why whining doesn't work), her happiness (her laugh is contagious!), her wit (read my post from Monday night), and her optimism (she solves things pretty quickly or already has a Plan B). I love that girl!
Here are some pictures (okay, okay --many pictures!) of her through the years. I'm sorry I don't have anything of her as an infant --that was pre-digital camera in our family. And yes --I'm too lazy to scan them in. Sorry! Just imagine her as super cute. Easy, right?
#2 is delightful, dear reader. I wish you could hang out with her for one afternoon. You'd get a sense of her drama (the girl is seriously a diva! But we're trying to teach her why manipulation is of the devil and why whining doesn't work), her happiness (her laugh is contagious!), her wit (read my post from Monday night), and her optimism (she solves things pretty quickly or already has a Plan B). I love that girl!
Here are some pictures (okay, okay --many pictures!) of her through the years. I'm sorry I don't have anything of her as an infant --that was pre-digital camera in our family. And yes --I'm too lazy to scan them in. Sorry! Just imagine her as super cute. Easy, right?
Happy Birthday, gorgeous girl!
Pay it Forward
My friend Bythelbs (and many others) are playing this game. Since I want something from Bythelbs --desperately --I decided to play along. Because who wouldn't want some Bythelbs' love?
This is how it works. The first 3 people to leave a comment on this (my) post will receive a handmade gift from me during this year—when and what will be a surprise. But --there’s a small catch. You need to post this on your blog (yes, that means you will also be giving away 3 handmade gifts. Like me!) and then come back and leave a comment telling me you’re in. Not too hard, eh? Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift. But that doesn't mean if there are 3 or more comments on my blog that you missed your chance --in fact, there are 4 comments over at Bythelbs, and only 2 of us have taken 3 of the slots. So, play along!
And even though you might be terrified as to what I could possibly make handmade (I know, I'm still trying to figure it out), that should give you even more of a reason to play along! Think of the amazing things I can come up with! I could totally blow your mind...
This is how it works. The first 3 people to leave a comment on this (my) post will receive a handmade gift from me during this year—when and what will be a surprise. But --there’s a small catch. You need to post this on your blog (yes, that means you will also be giving away 3 handmade gifts. Like me!) and then come back and leave a comment telling me you’re in. Not too hard, eh? Remember, only the first 3 comments receive the gift. But that doesn't mean if there are 3 or more comments on my blog that you missed your chance --in fact, there are 4 comments over at Bythelbs, and only 2 of us have taken 3 of the slots. So, play along!
And even though you might be terrified as to what I could possibly make handmade (I know, I'm still trying to figure it out), that should give you even more of a reason to play along! Think of the amazing things I can come up with! I could totally blow your mind...
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
This is my 700th Post, Yo
Unfortunately, this big 700th post milestone will be glossed over.
Why?
Yesterday, you people learned I was sick.
Today I am worse.
But what is worse than being sick with no sign of wellness in sight?
Being a mother and being sick.
What is worse than being a mother and being sick?
Having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick.
What is worse than having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick?
Knowing that tomorrow your child is having a birthday party here at the house, having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick.
Luckily, I have friends. And family. And I have decided not to suffer alone. I've called people for help (who are coming!), so hopefully everything will be as it should and I won't have to end up hospitalized because I did too much.
Ha! Who am I kidding? I've done nothing since Sunday night....
P.S. Who knew the house could become such a trash hole right in front of my face?
Why?
Yesterday, you people learned I was sick.
Today I am worse.
But what is worse than being sick with no sign of wellness in sight?
Being a mother and being sick.
What is worse than being a mother and being sick?
Having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick.
What is worse than having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick?
Knowing that tomorrow your child is having a birthday party here at the house, having your husband out of the country, being a mother, and being sick.
Luckily, I have friends. And family. And I have decided not to suffer alone. I've called people for help (who are coming!), so hopefully everything will be as it should and I won't have to end up hospitalized because I did too much.
Ha! Who am I kidding? I've done nothing since Sunday night....
P.S. Who knew the house could become such a trash hole right in front of my face?
Monday, February 09, 2009
Tonight just before bedtime...
me: #4, please lie down so I can change your diaper.
#2: It was just like yesterday that I was in diapers. The years go by so fast. ~Sigh~
It's good to know my soon-to-be Six year old enjoys reminiscing. About diapers.
Wha??
UPDATE: Holy cow! Her top tooth just fell out, too. What a crazy day...
#2: It was just like yesterday that I was in diapers. The years go by so fast. ~Sigh~
It's good to know my soon-to-be Six year old enjoys reminiscing. About diapers.
Wha??
UPDATE: Holy cow! Her top tooth just fell out, too. What a crazy day...
(yes, her pajamas are on backwards. And inside out.)
Just so you know...
...Five year olds (six on Wed!) are completely capable of making and serving lunch while their mother lies wiped out on the couch.
Hallelujah!
Hallelujah!
Travels, Birthdays, and Temples
Brandon left yesterday for London.
Yes, he just got back from London.
Yes, he went back.
No, he won't be gone nearly as long this time --in fact, he'll be back Friday. But that doesn't mean I like having him gone. Worst part? He was so sick on Saturday; I hope he feels better soon. Traveling is hard enough without being sick, you know?
Worst-er part? Now I have what he had. So does #3.
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Yesterday (as you know) #4 turned Two! Here are some pictures of the early-morning-cake-for-breakfast-before-dad-leaves-for-England festivities:
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On Saturday, we took the kids to the Draper Temple Open House. Of course, we forgot the camera, so this link of pictures will have to do. But imagine grey skies. And a gloomy day. The Temple, despite the gloom, was still gorgeous, though.
We had a great time (despite Brandon being sick --he was such a trooper) and the kids really enjoyed it! Especially the girls. #3 was tired by the end, and #4 kept yelling "Anotha one!" every time he saw a portrait of Christ --which, as you might know, meant every five seconds. The Draper Temple is a small one, so the tour didn't take too long, but it was so beautiful. I asked the kids afterwards what their favorite parts were:
#1: The Celestial Room!
#2: The room with the big chandelier and the room with the mirrors.
#3: The sparkly rooms!
#4: Yah!
And you know? I'm still blown away at how well the Church organizes everything. Because the Draper Temple is small (and they were having thousands and thousands of people visit), they couldn't accommodate that many people for parking. So, they had three separate meeting houses, all within a few miles of the Temple, assigned to help with parking. Each one was color coordinated, and each one had 2 to 3 tour buses taking people up and back to the Temple. There were volunteers everywhere, pamphlets, refreshments afterwards, information posted, and instead of those little white slipper/booties they used to make people wear to keep the carpet clean? They just covered all the "tour walk-ways" with plastic. It was smooth, informative, and efficient. In fact, we arrived at about 3:45PM, and we were back in car on our way home by 5:40PM.
Yeah, we rock at organization.
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Remember my post yesterday? About me caring what people think of me? If not, scroll down --it's right there.
Anyway, my dear friend Michelle (who is in my ward) wrote a blog post about it (instead of leaving a marathon comment) and I loved it. Go read it. You will probably love it, too.
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I have this other friend, and she's a genius. Go read this post she wrote at BCC. I loved it because I think we forget that the hardest parts of our lives come AFTER we grow up and go to the Temple. It's not about "whew! I made it to the Temple! Now life will be easy!" Instead, it's about "Whew! I made it to the Temple! And it's a good thing, because now life is gonna be HARD."
Happy Monday!
Yes, he just got back from London.
Yes, he went back.
No, he won't be gone nearly as long this time --in fact, he'll be back Friday. But that doesn't mean I like having him gone. Worst part? He was so sick on Saturday; I hope he feels better soon. Traveling is hard enough without being sick, you know?
Worst-er part? Now I have what he had. So does #3.
-------------------------------
Yesterday (as you know) #4 turned Two! Here are some pictures of the early-morning-cake-for-breakfast-before-dad-leaves-for-England festivities:
-----------------------------
On Saturday, we took the kids to the Draper Temple Open House. Of course, we forgot the camera, so this link of pictures will have to do. But imagine grey skies. And a gloomy day. The Temple, despite the gloom, was still gorgeous, though.
We had a great time (despite Brandon being sick --he was such a trooper) and the kids really enjoyed it! Especially the girls. #3 was tired by the end, and #4 kept yelling "Anotha one!" every time he saw a portrait of Christ --which, as you might know, meant every five seconds. The Draper Temple is a small one, so the tour didn't take too long, but it was so beautiful. I asked the kids afterwards what their favorite parts were:
#1: The Celestial Room!
#2: The room with the big chandelier and the room with the mirrors.
#3: The sparkly rooms!
#4: Yah!
And you know? I'm still blown away at how well the Church organizes everything. Because the Draper Temple is small (and they were having thousands and thousands of people visit), they couldn't accommodate that many people for parking. So, they had three separate meeting houses, all within a few miles of the Temple, assigned to help with parking. Each one was color coordinated, and each one had 2 to 3 tour buses taking people up and back to the Temple. There were volunteers everywhere, pamphlets, refreshments afterwards, information posted, and instead of those little white slipper/booties they used to make people wear to keep the carpet clean? They just covered all the "tour walk-ways" with plastic. It was smooth, informative, and efficient. In fact, we arrived at about 3:45PM, and we were back in car on our way home by 5:40PM.
Yeah, we rock at organization.
-------------------------------
Remember my post yesterday? About me caring what people think of me? If not, scroll down --it's right there.
Anyway, my dear friend Michelle (who is in my ward) wrote a blog post about it (instead of leaving a marathon comment) and I loved it. Go read it. You will probably love it, too.
----------------------------
I have this other friend, and she's a genius. Go read this post she wrote at BCC. I loved it because I think we forget that the hardest parts of our lives come AFTER we grow up and go to the Temple. It's not about "whew! I made it to the Temple! Now life will be easy!" Instead, it's about "Whew! I made it to the Temple! And it's a good thing, because now life is gonna be HARD."
Happy Monday!
Sunday, February 08, 2009
It Doesn't Matter if People Like Me. But You Like Me, Right?
One thing my therapist and I talk about on a frequent basis is my need for people to like me. Also my control issues. And my unrealistic expectations. Oh, and my comparison problem. But, I'm digressing here. What I want to talk about is that first one. That need for people to like me.
I'm sure most of you will agree that the need for love and acceptance is innate. Every infant born needs love and care just as desperately as they need food and air (you're welcome for the rhyme). Even as an adult, the need for love is just a part of who I am --wouldn't you agree? Don't you desire love? Kindness? Acceptance? Understanding? Yes! This is because we need each other. I could get religious here and explain why, but I know that those without religious beliefs will probably agree with me --we all need love. At least at some level. We do.
Now, the problem isn't needing each other. It's when we turn that need into something unrealistic or demanding. Let's say...for instance...that there's this woman. She's smart, she's pretty, she's married, she has kids, she has friends. Let's say she loves to write and blog and happens to...teach piano lessons. Let's also say that one of her gifts has been to maintain friendships that have lasted for more than 20 years. Let's also say that this random woman counts friendships as some of the greatest assets in her life.
That's not so bad, is it?
And see, it's not --at least from the outside. I don't see myself as being foolish for having friends (or trying to keep friends). But the problem lies in that I don't want them or anyone I've ever had any kind of an association with to ever think badly of me. Ever.
No, seriously. Never, ever.
Remember Elizabeth Bennett from the A&E version of Pride and Prejudice? Here's a scene between her and Jane:
Lizzy: How he must despise me now.
Jane: But Lizzy you've never sought his love, nor welcomed it when he offered it! If he has withdrawn his high opinion of you now, why should you care?
Lizzy: I don't know! I can't explain it! I know I shall probably never see him again...I cannot bear to think that he is alive in the world and thinking ill of me.
Now, we all know that Lizzy actually loves Darcy and they get together in the end (and if you didn't know this, then we can never be friends. Look! I'm cured! Ha! Okay, just kidding. We can still be friends. Maybe.), but this scene means a lot to me because the last line is how I feel about everybody.
Every. Body.
I can't stand to think that someone won't like me. Why won't they like me? How could they not like me? What did I do? Say? Didn't they get my sarcasm? Didn't they understand my pain at the time? Please, random stranger, just like me!!
It reminds me of that one episode of Seinfeld, when Jerry's parents are completely mystified that somebody wouldn't like Jerry. Except I'm Jerry's parents. Trapped in Jerry's body.
Weird visual.
Anyway...
See, here's the thing. I know I'm abrasive and rude sometimes. I know I'm opinionated and tactless. I'm honest almost to a fault, but I tend to believe I have redeeming qualities, especially when it comes to social interaction. But I have learned some hard lessons over the past decade or so, and I am beginning to realize that not everyone is going to like me. Nor --nor! --does it matter.
Really.
It doesn't matter!
Now, if I'm being uncharitable and punching random people in the face, or insulting my friends because they make different decisions than I do, then yeah --I deserve to be friendless. But I usually don't do this. I'm usually very nice. Service-oriented. Charitable. I'm even fun to be with, gosh darn it! (Well, maybe not during my depression days, but you know what I mean.) And so this is why I wonder why people don't like me, or --even worse --care way too much what random people think of me. I'm always afraid of insulting someone or hurting their feelings.
Makes no sense, I know! Me, the abrasive, tactless, opinionated person is always afraid of hurting someone's feelings. Even in my intense honesty, I still cringe because I hope people understand that I really don't mean to come off as rude. And that I hope they know I like them, and hope they like me.
Ooh! But it gets worse! Here are some things I've avoided doing because I was afraid of hurting someone's feelings:
*Changing midwives
*Cancelling the lawn service
*Confronting a piano student's parents
*Emailing a friend
*Not ignoring friends on Facebook I didn't remember (but knew I must have known because we had 40 friends in common) and accepted them instead
*Doing last minute favors for ward members when I didn't have the time
The midwife thing has me tripping out right now. I've decided I have to go somewhere else because I don't want pitocin for anything --I'm still angry over #4's birth where my midwife gave me too much. You know, the midwife I'm going to. Right now. The one I can't go to anymore --and yet I'm afraid to hurt her feelings.
See what I mean?
So, I'm working on it. In fact, today, I happened to go over to a blog of an old high school friend. I've tried, in the last year, to reconnect with this friend, with absolutely no response whatsoever. I know she got my messages --I also know she's connecting with many of our mutual friends. For a while I was really annoyed, bugged, hurt that she would ignore me so blatantly, and I still don't know why --nor do I understand. I've tried to figure out what I did or said over the last decade to make her refuse contact with me, but I'm stumped. Completely stumped.
[Oh, and here's the other thing: If somebody doesn't respond in kind, I usually try and give it another attempt a while later (weeks? months?) and then I'm done. I won't be the person who pushes and pushes and prods and begs and annoys people to death. This is why I rarely email someone until I've received an email from them. Nor will I cold-call people without a reason. Nor will I bug friends (or family, or acquaintances, or random strangers) with incessant clingy-needy-communication. I refuse to be that person --but that usually means friendships end, eh? But hey, what kind of crap friendship would that be if it was all one-sided like that?!]
So...ummm...where was I? Oh, yes. The point. The point is that I'm getting better. This random high school friend may never know she hurt my feelings, and she may live a perfectly wonderful life always thinking ill of me, or she just may never think of me at all.
And I'm okay with it.
Progress, people. Progress.
Do you care way to much how people perceive you? Do you worry too much if people like you or not? Do you avoid doing things that may hurt random stranger's feelings? If so, tell me about it...
I'm sure most of you will agree that the need for love and acceptance is innate. Every infant born needs love and care just as desperately as they need food and air (you're welcome for the rhyme). Even as an adult, the need for love is just a part of who I am --wouldn't you agree? Don't you desire love? Kindness? Acceptance? Understanding? Yes! This is because we need each other. I could get religious here and explain why, but I know that those without religious beliefs will probably agree with me --we all need love. At least at some level. We do.
Now, the problem isn't needing each other. It's when we turn that need into something unrealistic or demanding. Let's say...for instance...that there's this woman. She's smart, she's pretty, she's married, she has kids, she has friends. Let's say she loves to write and blog and happens to...teach piano lessons. Let's also say that one of her gifts has been to maintain friendships that have lasted for more than 20 years. Let's also say that this random woman counts friendships as some of the greatest assets in her life.
That's not so bad, is it?
And see, it's not --at least from the outside. I don't see myself as being foolish for having friends (or trying to keep friends). But the problem lies in that I don't want them or anyone I've ever had any kind of an association with to ever think badly of me. Ever.
No, seriously. Never, ever.
Remember Elizabeth Bennett from the A&E version of Pride and Prejudice? Here's a scene between her and Jane:
Lizzy: How he must despise me now.
Jane: But Lizzy you've never sought his love, nor welcomed it when he offered it! If he has withdrawn his high opinion of you now, why should you care?
Lizzy: I don't know! I can't explain it! I know I shall probably never see him again...I cannot bear to think that he is alive in the world and thinking ill of me.
Now, we all know that Lizzy actually loves Darcy and they get together in the end (and if you didn't know this, then we can never be friends. Look! I'm cured! Ha! Okay, just kidding. We can still be friends. Maybe.), but this scene means a lot to me because the last line is how I feel about everybody.
Every. Body.
I can't stand to think that someone won't like me. Why won't they like me? How could they not like me? What did I do? Say? Didn't they get my sarcasm? Didn't they understand my pain at the time? Please, random stranger, just like me!!
It reminds me of that one episode of Seinfeld, when Jerry's parents are completely mystified that somebody wouldn't like Jerry. Except I'm Jerry's parents. Trapped in Jerry's body.
Weird visual.
Anyway...
See, here's the thing. I know I'm abrasive and rude sometimes. I know I'm opinionated and tactless. I'm honest almost to a fault, but I tend to believe I have redeeming qualities, especially when it comes to social interaction. But I have learned some hard lessons over the past decade or so, and I am beginning to realize that not everyone is going to like me. Nor --nor! --does it matter.
Really.
It doesn't matter!
Now, if I'm being uncharitable and punching random people in the face, or insulting my friends because they make different decisions than I do, then yeah --I deserve to be friendless. But I usually don't do this. I'm usually very nice. Service-oriented. Charitable. I'm even fun to be with, gosh darn it! (Well, maybe not during my depression days, but you know what I mean.) And so this is why I wonder why people don't like me, or --even worse --care way too much what random people think of me. I'm always afraid of insulting someone or hurting their feelings.
Makes no sense, I know! Me, the abrasive, tactless, opinionated person is always afraid of hurting someone's feelings. Even in my intense honesty, I still cringe because I hope people understand that I really don't mean to come off as rude. And that I hope they know I like them, and hope they like me.
Ooh! But it gets worse! Here are some things I've avoided doing because I was afraid of hurting someone's feelings:
*Changing midwives
*Cancelling the lawn service
*Confronting a piano student's parents
*Emailing a friend
*Not ignoring friends on Facebook I didn't remember (but knew I must have known because we had 40 friends in common) and accepted them instead
*Doing last minute favors for ward members when I didn't have the time
The midwife thing has me tripping out right now. I've decided I have to go somewhere else because I don't want pitocin for anything --I'm still angry over #4's birth where my midwife gave me too much. You know, the midwife I'm going to. Right now. The one I can't go to anymore --and yet I'm afraid to hurt her feelings.
See what I mean?
So, I'm working on it. In fact, today, I happened to go over to a blog of an old high school friend. I've tried, in the last year, to reconnect with this friend, with absolutely no response whatsoever. I know she got my messages --I also know she's connecting with many of our mutual friends. For a while I was really annoyed, bugged, hurt that she would ignore me so blatantly, and I still don't know why --nor do I understand. I've tried to figure out what I did or said over the last decade to make her refuse contact with me, but I'm stumped. Completely stumped.
[Oh, and here's the other thing: If somebody doesn't respond in kind, I usually try and give it another attempt a while later (weeks? months?) and then I'm done. I won't be the person who pushes and pushes and prods and begs and annoys people to death. This is why I rarely email someone until I've received an email from them. Nor will I cold-call people without a reason. Nor will I bug friends (or family, or acquaintances, or random strangers) with incessant clingy-needy-communication. I refuse to be that person --but that usually means friendships end, eh? But hey, what kind of crap friendship would that be if it was all one-sided like that?!]
So...ummm...where was I? Oh, yes. The point. The point is that I'm getting better. This random high school friend may never know she hurt my feelings, and she may live a perfectly wonderful life always thinking ill of me, or she just may never think of me at all.
And I'm okay with it.
Progress, people. Progress.
Do you care way to much how people perceive you? Do you worry too much if people like you or not? Do you avoid doing things that may hurt random stranger's feelings? If so, tell me about it...
Happy Birthday, #4!
My Baby is Two Years Old today!
He is adorable. That's probably the best way to describe him. He kisses my cheek, laughs constantly, runs like every one's watching, steals cereal out of the cupboard, gives the best hugs, pals around with his big brother (worships him, really), yells JEE-SUZ! whenever he sees a painting of Christ (don't worry, it's not as profane as it sounds!), cries whenever I leave, and gives me the cutest looks that I can't help but squish him! I sure love that guy.
Here are some photos from the past two years (notice how his hair went from the darkest brown to blond!):
He is adorable. That's probably the best way to describe him. He kisses my cheek, laughs constantly, runs like every one's watching, steals cereal out of the cupboard, gives the best hugs, pals around with his big brother (worships him, really), yells JEE-SUZ! whenever he sees a painting of Christ (don't worry, it's not as profane as it sounds!), cries whenever I leave, and gives me the cutest looks that I can't help but squish him! I sure love that guy.
Here are some photos from the past two years (notice how his hair went from the darkest brown to blond!):
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEAUTIFUL BOY!
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