Return of the Popper

Order has been restored to the universe. I can now die a happy woman. It's a new month (almost) and that means a new budget. Finally the long awaited day of buying a new popcorn popper has come! Yes, we've slaved away and sacrificed living off of microwave popcorn as we awaited this day. Praise to Wal-mart for carrying our beloved new air popper!

I don't know if you've tried living without freshly made popcorn, but it is a scary dark lifestyle. I wouldn't recommend it! Microwave just doesn't cut it. And no other snacks sound as good so that mean starving (the horror!) or being evil and hitting Taco Bell or Wendy's. But no more! The beloved idol has come home. Now we can once again have harmony. Oh happy day!

Sex & Asphalt?

Sex sells. We all know that because it's used in everything from shampoo to butter. Remember those Fabio commercials for "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter"? What were they thinking? Seeing Fabio would make me want to stick pins in my eyes, not buy their butter. Ugh!

Yesterday we went to Las Vegas for a friend's baby blessing. They live in a beautiful part of the city. I never knew there was such a thing, but there are nice parts of Vegas that look like a normal city. (Okay, so I've only ever driven along the strip and I-15 in Vegas). Once we left their neighborhood and got closer to the freeway, all sorts of fun signs started to pop up advertising scantily clad women for night clubs and gentlemen's clubs. As if a real gentleman would go to such places. Hah! (I am so glad I am not a bishop in Las Vegas. I wonder if there is an even bigger problem with porn there.)

There was one sign along the freeway that blew me away. It was a the top half of a woman in a bikini wearing a hard hat. Another advertisement for a club? No, this sign was from a company that does paving and excavating. It threw my brain for a loop because I was confused. Was it a joke? Guess not. So does that mean if I call them to pave my driveway some slutty looking construction worker will come to my house. That will drive away my business! Or do they offer "extra" services? Perhaps they just realized that sex sells so why not use it? I just never thought of asphalt and sex together, but I guess maybe I am just too innocent.

All I know is that for me, sex doesn't sell. It makes me laugh at the lame attempt to get my business and makes me mad to see something sacred mocked. I know Herbal Essence doesn't feel that good or that every tub of "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter" doesn't include my own private Fabio. If it did, I'd be running for the hills. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!

Good Bye Blue Eyes

Paul Newman died Friday at age 83 after a long battle with lung cancer. He will be sorely missed. Not only did he have amazing salad dressing, or voice the car "Doc" in the movie Cars, but also, and most importantly, he was an incredible actor. They just don't make them like that anymore. I'd take Mr. Newman and his baby blues any day over Brad Pitt or any other present day Hollywood hunk. There just isn't a comparison.

Newman knew how to act. He knew how to carry himself on the screen and captivate an audience. Whether he was a good or bad guy(and he was great at being bad), he was easy to love. One of my all time favorite movies is "The Sting" with a young Newman and Robert Redford. Talk about eye candy! The plot is clever and witty and I found myself actually rooting for the two con artists. They were amazing together weaving their masterpiece. There are so many good Newman movies out there and I know I haven't even begun to scratch the surface. Some aren't as good, but most are pretty amazing.

Paul Newman will be missed. He was one of those untouchable Hollywood icons whose name inspires respect and awe. Whether it's "Cars" or "The Hustler", I say we all curl up to a Newman movie sometime this week in honor of this great man.

Lucky Seven

Thanks Robyne for the tag! No it really was fun to sit and ponder these "Lucky Seven" things. So here goes:

7 Things I can do:

#1 Exercise. I am so grateful that I have a healthy functioning body. I know I'd go insane if I couldn't be active.
#2 Organize things. I love being able to look at a clutter area of mess and figure out how to make it disappear. Or the fact that I am never burdened by chores or make it late to church. Being organized comes naturally.
#3 Create. I love to paint, draw, cook,and decorate. Give me a space and I can make it look adorable. Just come see my house. I love crafts and I love beautifying the area around me. And I love create delicious meals in the kitchen.
#4 Go to the temple. I think I would die without my recommend. I love being able to go every month and partake of the spirit and blessings there.
#5 Genealogy. I love it! I am an addict and it is so easy to get hooked on! Plus there is a wonderful spirit that comes with the work.
#6 Stay at home with my kids. What a blessing! I know not everyone can do this, but I feel so blessed to be at home for my kids. I know what is going on in their lives. I know their concerns and needs. And I get to play with them and hear all the adorable things they say every day.
#7 Pay my bills. Another blessing, especially in this economy. I love being able to pay my bills every month. It is SO nice.


7 Things I can't do:

#1 Sing. Okay, I can sing, but I don't like how I sound. I just don't have the confidence for it.
#2 Play a musical instrument. Is there a pattern here? I would like to and I did learn piano as a kid, but now I have too many other things that interest me.
#3 Eat meat. I haven't had meat since I was 14 or 15. I don't miss it and the thought of eating it makes me want to hurl.
#4 Swing. I used to be able to swing as a child and I loved it, but now it makes me feel nauseated. No fair!
#5 Speak a foreign language. I did know basic Spanish in college, but I've become out of practice.
#6 Write books. I admire my sister-in-law and other authors who can come up with such amazing and captivating stories. Not happening here.
#7 Hold a grudge. It seems such a waste of energy and time to spend your life mad at someone over something, whether big or small. Life's too precious to spend it bitter.

7 Things that attracted me to Marshall:

#1 His boyish good looks. He is just adorable. And he has buns that won't quit!
#2 His strong intellect and wit. I couldn't marry a man who I couldn't have a decent conversation with about politics and history. And I needed someone who could be as saucy as I am.
#3 Those kissy lips.
#4 His testimony. I didn't want someone who would weenie out on me, but who would stick it out and follow the Lord no matter what.
#5 His positive attitude. I love how he is always happy. It's contagious and so good to be around.
#6 His singing. Ah, melt my heart.
#7 His willingness to help out, no matter what. I wanted a man who would be willing to do dishes or change a poopy diaper if the occasion called for it. One who would share in the work of raising kids when possible.


7 Things I say the most:

#1 Just try to not fight for two minutes!
#2 What the dillio?
#3 I love you.
#4 Hurry up or we'll be late for the bus.
#5 Come on, turtles, let's go!
#6 You're such a goof.
#7 Go to bed, or else . . .

7 Celebrities I admire the most:

#1 Jesus Christ
#2 George Washington
#3 Abraham Lincoln
#4 Queen Elizabeth I
#5 Hellen Keller
#6 Christopher Reeves
#7 Michael Phelps

Now you know more about me. You can do the "Lucky Seven" too. And don't worry, nothing bad will befall you if you don't, you'll just be known as a pinecone for life!

Same old argument

Why are people so blind? Why must we call evil good and good evil to feel better about ourselves? When will they learn? I am referring to the article I read today about the 2009 Men on a Mission calendar. The calendar was started by Chad Hardy, who was excommunicated for this undertaking, in an attempt to shake up the "cookie-cutter image" of the LDS people. It features pictures of 12 men posing shirtless in black suit pants. Hardy states:

People like me are bound to stereotypes that don't fit. I think we can all have the same faith and still have different outlooks."

Last year's calendars sold nearly 11,000 copies and now that Hardy has been excommunicated, his popularity has grown. Shouldn't that say something about it not being of the Lord, but rather of the world?

Hardy has created quite a following and already has people clamoring to be a part of the 2010 calendar. This year's cover model, Cody Bloomfield, loves the idea of portraying Mormons in a new light:

"A lot of people think that because all our leaders are 90-year-old and stand behind podiums, we're all like that. But it's not all rules and organization. Young people in the church obviously keep the standards and the rules of the church, but we look at them differently."

Hello? Do you even go to church? It has a lot to do with rules and organization. Didn't the Lord say "my house is a house of order"? Why must we take off our shirts to show that we are not all old men? I'm not so sure about you keeping the standards, bud. We're not of God, we're just like the world. We need to be naked to show that we are unique and can think for ourselves. Who's the mindless sheep? How does that make you unique? Why don't you show me how you are an individual person with a unique personality or talents, but still are an active member of the church who brings his own gifts to the effort of building Zion? That's what I love about the church. There are people from all different walks of life that come together and bring their own rich experiences that add to strengthen the ward family and church. None of them has to expose themselves to feel better about who they are. And I thought the whole idea was to work towards being one, Zion.

Plans are in the making to feature female members of the the church in a calendar called "Hot Mormon Muffins: A Taste of Motherhood". Could we sound any more smutty? Lisa Wood, a mother of four, is eager and hopeful to take part in the new calendar.

"Mormons in general are taught not to judge," said Wood. "I've never been one that does anything by the norm and I'd much rather show that I'm an individual and still a good person."

Um, we do need to judge between good and evil and it seems like you're missing that whole idea. And I've met lots of church members who aren't the norm. Every ward has them and that is great. They add spice to the ward family. But why do you have to pose in a sexy calendar to make yourself feel like you're an individual or a good person? Doesn't make much sense to me. If you did feel like a good person, you wouldn't have to prove it to the world. You'd already know of your worth by living the commandments. And taking your clothes off doesn't make you unique because,honey, every woman has the same stuff you've got. Try defining yourself in a way that actually shows your individuality, okay?

I have no patience for this kind of garabage. These people aren't unique, they are the ones that are the "cookie cutters" of the world. They're doing what has been done for ages. They can justify it all they want, but they're not doing any good to themselves or the church. Don't bring my religon down to a worldly level and tell me it's in the name of art and expression. The Gospel was never meant to be of the world. You either rise above to live it, or fall short.

My Other Addiction

After months of waiting, the season premiere is tonight. So don't call me because I won't be answering the phone. I am SOOO excited!!!!

Who would you be?

If you could be a superhero, who would you be and why?

As a child I loved Wonder Woman. I would watch the live action tv show and thought Linda Carter was awesome. She was beautiful and could kick some serious booty. I would go outback in our yard and spin around really fast in the hopes that I too would turn into the amazing Amazon. She has super strength, can leap tall buildings, and deflect bullets. And she is beautiful. In newer comics she can fly. Not bad. I even had a Wonder Woman comic book collection and a Wonder Woman bumper sticker for my car when I was a teenager. She was my idol.

I always thought Wolverine has cool powers. Okay, not the sharp claws because that is freaky, but his ability to regenerate quickly and heal himself. But then it would really stink to be immortal in a corrupt world. No thanks.

Flash is awesome because he's fast. I could get my chores and errands done for the day in super speed. But that still wouldn't help me from not wanting to sell my children on some days or make my washing machine and dryer go faster.

Elasta-Girl from "The Incredibles" has some sweet powers. I could use that stretchy body right now as I am going through pregnancy. How nice would that be? Or in the van while I am driving and the kids are fighting or drop a precious sippee cup on a long road trip. I could just reach back with my long arm and fix the problem. Yeah, that power would be nice.

But the more I think about it, there isn't one superhero I would want to be. There are some with some cool powers, but none that fit my line of work. How can stopping bullets help me every day? So I think it would be neat if there were some superheros for moms out there. Like what about Spazzstic Woman, the hero that never runs out of energy? She can clean bathrooms, do laundry, and care for kids all without breaking a sweat. I could use her now. Or what about Super Bargain Shopper, who can find every bargain in the area with her extreme mental powers? That would nice on the bank account. Patience the Calm, the hero who never raises her voice in anger at her children or husband, even if she's cleaned up fifty water spills a day and her husband is hours late at meetings? I could totally use some of that. Or the Master Chef, the woman who never gets tired of cooking meals daily? Not only does she cook, but she enjoys it and can cook and clean up dishes with super sonic speed. Or The Voice, the woman who can get anyone, even her children, to follow her commands with just the melodic sound of her hypnotizing voice? That's what I am talking about! Or what about Creativa, the hero who can think of numerous ways to entertain a toddler all without causing destruction to her home or her sanity? Oh, the list could go on and on.

Wonder Woman, the Flash, Wolverine, Superman, Batman, and all the rest are great superheros, but I am looking for something a little bit more. I would be a superhero that could help do my crazy trying job as a mom on a daily basis. Who cares if I can lift a building over my head? I'm talking about having energy to make it through the day. Now that is a super power.

My New Addiction

If I gain 500 pounds this pregnancy, I am blaming it on my mother-in-law. I have been working so hard at exercising and watching my diet. People keep telling me how small I look, but that may not last for long.

My mother-in-law told us all about a new flavor of candy corn that is out, Brach's caramel apple candy corn. I thought I'd try it since I hate candy corn. I do, I really do. Marshall loves it and every year I buy it and try it and say "Ugh! This tastes icky!" I just don't like it. So I thought I'd try the new flavor and see if there was any hope for me. Oh my goodness! Talk about divine! It is delicious and I love it! The new flavor tastes nothing like candy corn. It's smooth, caramel, and fruity at the same time. Every time I keep walking by the candy pumpkin, I have to force myself to have control. They are too dang tempting.

I know it's not really my mother-in-law's fault, but it's still fun to have someone to blame! You all should try this new flavor and then we can get fat together on yummy sugary goodness. As if having Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas coming soon won't be challenging enough. Let's start the binging early!

Gotta Laugh

Do you ever feel like your bank account is laughing at you? I am sure none of you do because you are all millionaires and just like to read about me money complaints for kicks. Right? I mean we are the only ones out there who have been out of school for two years and are trying to build up savings while having a family in a crazy economy. Right?

I always amuse myself whenever I check my bank account on-line. Sometimes after I log in I look away from the screen. As if avoiding eye contact with my balance will somehow make it bigger or better. Sometimes I want to crawl under the desk and hide from the balance. Or I imagine the bank website laughing at me and say "Why is this fool checking her bank account? It's hopeless! Bwha ha ha!" (No, I am not insane. I just have a sense of humor. I know my computer can't really talk to me. Now the microwave, that's different.)

Really, it's not that bad. I know we are very blessed to have all we do and things are good for us. My husband has a wonderful job. And seeing him work with welfare in the ward, I know we are very blessed. I just wish every time I went grocery shopping I wasn't surprised at how much something has gone up in price. It's like a "fun" little game. "How much will this item cost this week?" Plus I am amazed at my growing family and how much we eat. Holy cow! What is up with that? Who said my kids could have appetites?

But I am grateful that we can feed our family and live comfortably. And I am very grateful that my dishwasher is fixed and running without any money spent. I just wish one day my bank account wouldn't mock me. Someday . . .

The Cult of the Sacred Belly

I have a confession to make. We have cult in our home, the Cult of the Sacred Belly. I don't know how to got started, but Rachel is the leader and practices worshipping every day. It's not a bad cult, but I do wish the object of worship didn't include me. My stomach is the beloved idol because inside is her new little brother.

You see many times during the day, my belly gets rubs, pokes, hugs, and kisses from Rachel. It's just sticking out and she can't help herself. Plus she knows her beloved baby brother is inside. One can only imagine the attention the new baby will get if my stomach gets this much love. Jimmy doesn't really seem to care about the cult, but Anna follows Rachel's lead and has to at least hug my belly every night. She's not as dedicated as Rachel, but she still cares.

So now you know our little dirty secret. I guess now I'll have to confess to my bishop.

Mondays

Well it's Monday morning and I am ready to burst into tears. Is this normal? I know everyone has days like this. Sundays are SO long and then Mondays just add to the fun.

While I am trying to get laundry done and clean the bathrooms, the kids are calling my name every few minutes. The sound of "Mommy" from Rachel just makes me cringe. Now I love my kids, but sometimes I wish I could at least go to the bathroom without being paged. It amazes me how little patience the kids have. Sometimes they just have to wait to get what they want and that is just asking too much. Oh, such a hard life!

To add to my crabbiness, our dishwasher won't drain. It hasn't since we replaced the garbage disposal. That means doing dishes by hand. My hope if that something went down the dishwasher tube and clogged it in the process. Marshall's going to pull it out tonight to investigate. Otherwise, Murphy's Law will be in full effect and we will have to buy a new dishwasher. Grrr.

I found our almost full cinnamon and sugar sprinkler jar open and empty in the toy room. I can't find any traces of the sugar so I am assuming it has been poured into the carpet. I don't want to know, but I know I should vacuum. Mmm cinnamon carpet.

And I feel huge. I know I still have three months to go, but I feel like a beached whale already. It's not that I am not excited for the baby to come, but being pregnant is tiring and often uncomfortable. I haven't met a woman yet who hasn't complained at some point in her pregnancy about the discomfort. It's well worth the ordeal, but it is the most physically demanding process a woman goes through. You can experience a range of physical affects that last for 10 months. Sometimes I think "Thanks a lot Eve!". Of course, I also think "Thanks a lot Adam!" when I am weeding my yard. But anyhow, I'm uncomfortable.

So I am ready to hop back in bed and pull the covers over my head. I totally agree with Garfield on this one.

New Low

While playing on the computer during the garbage disposal installation (which was a success and I love my new disposal!) I came across an article on MSN about pornography and airlines. I was very curious because I had never even imagined the two together.

Airlines offer Internet use while in air for a fee. Apparently some travelers have used said access to view inappropriate sites and there have been complaints. It's not a big problem, but the flight attendants would like to have the Internet filtered in air. The question arises whether this should be done since people do pay for the service. The article argues that someone can just as easily take a pornographic magazine or dvd on flight and view it while traveling.

My thought it is "ew!" I don't care if you are on a twenty hour flight or two hour flight, something is seriously wrong with you if you can't control your urges during that time period. You are in a public place where there will be people who see it. Kids fly airlines too. Do we have to start having "X-rated" sections on planes? Have they no self respect? Come on people. How disgusting are you? I think porn is nasty sick and wrong and makes light of something very sacred. To me, viewing porn on an airplane would be the same as if someone started being intimate in the seat next to me. There has to be limits. There just has to be. Are we so base of a society that we have to have sex available everywhere? No self control?

I am glad flight attendants and passengers are complaining. I would too if I was around someone who was viewing such material. I would have a hard time not smacking them down to the floor. It's sick, wrong, and nasty. Keep your foul little habits to yourself, please. So yes, I do hope some sort of filter is put in. I can dream, right?

Wifely Wisdom

My new garbage disposal is being put in as I type. It was much cheaper than I thought it would be. Yeah! Now I would feel bad about sitting on my duff and playing on the computer while my husband slaves away, but I don't. Why? Because I love my husband.

We have learned in our eight years of marriage that we don't mix well when it comes to repairs or putting together furniture. We both are stubborn and I am a high strung perfectionist, while my husband is a laid back chap. When we do put things together, I am the instruction reader and he is the muscle. This has worked out quite well for us.

The first time we almost murdered each other was over putting together baby furniture for Anna's impending arrival. Now mind you, putting together a crib and changing table involved all sorts or random parts, etc. But we were doomed from the beginning because we put the two together in the living room and then tried to move them to the bedroom. Our old apartment had narrow doors and prohibited allowing the crib through. So we had to take the side off, move it into the room, and put it back together. That was after almost two hours spent on assembling the changing table and crib in the first place. We were not happy campers and sparks (not the romantic kind) were a flying.

Thank goodness we have learned a thing or two since then. So here I sit while he works. I'm not lazy, I just want peace and happiness to reign in my home. Thank goodness we are older and wiser now!

Big Boy

Thursday we set up Jimmy's big boy bed.



As you can tell, everyone was very excited about it. They spent an hour playing in his room.



Jimmy went to bed without any problems and had a peaceful night. We checked on him when we went to bed and he was in the same spot we had left him in. I found him awake and chipper in his bed this morning. The first thing he said to me was "I slept in my Wall-E bed! I am a good boy!" Cutie! I can't believe my little man is growing up!

Random Knowledge= Good Mom

I am a good mom. I know this because I can tell you that Dora's baby brother's name is Guillermo and her baby sister's name is Isabella. There is a Justice League movie that will start filming in 2009. And some people have way too much time to devout to creating shrines to the Wonder Twins.

How do I know all of these interesting tidbits? You see I have a four year old who loves the obscure. Her favorite toy to carry around is her Dora Baby Boy doll. We went through a big Boy Baby phase where she wanted a Boy Baby shirt, sheets, and costume. The problem is that Boy Baby isn't big enough to have his own merchandise so we had to do our own iron-on shirt for Rachel. This morning I learned the big secret of Boy Baby's name while watching tv with Jimmy and trying to get him to pee on the potty. Guillermo! He does have a name! I called Marshall all excited about this discovery and then realized, "Oh my. I am a mom." I even recorded said Dora episode so Rachel could watch it when she got back from preschool.

Rachel is also madly in love with the Justice League super heroes Hawk and Dove. She thinks they are both handsome. Of course, they are the less popular characters that make an appearance in only a few episodes. Rachel has been begging that I find a picture of them to print out. Today I finally found one, but in the process I came across all sorts of Justice League sites and info. Who knew there was a movie in the pre-making? Not me.

And as for Zan and Jana, well they were on the Super Friends show back in the late 70's. Rachel LOVES Zan. He too is handsome and has captured her little 4 year old heart. She has declared that she wants to be Zan for Halloween. Since Zan is a less popular cartoon character from the 70's, Mom has had to do some research on what his costume looks like so we can try to recreate it. I didn't know so many people loved the Wonder Twins and made tribute pages to them. My, some people do have lots of time on their hands.

So now I know all sorts of random useless knowledge. What does it mean? That I am one dang good mom.

The Call of the Bell

Do you have a favorite fast food place that you crave, even though you know it's just sick and wrong? A place that appeals to you when you have the munchies? A place that has a magical power over you, one where you can't help but go back for more? For me it's Taco Bell. I swear they must put some addictive chemical in their food that makes me want to go back. I live in the land of good Mexican food and yet when it's night and I am hungry, I want Taco Bell. This craving is especially pronounced when I am pregnant. Does my body need some ingredient only found in their food? I don't know, but I want it.

Last night as I was waiting for Marshall to come home from church, I was hoping I could convince him to get Taco Bell. I wanted it, but obviously couldn't leave the house because I had sleeping (yes amazing, but true) kids in the house. However, poor Marshall didn't get home until close to ten and I wasn't about to send him out after a long day.

Then again today I wanted Taco Bell. I'm telling you, they put drugs in their food or something. We were going to be good and make popcorn for a snack, but our 8 year- old-yard-sale-find popcorn popper has finally given up. It's good at burning popcorn, but not actually popping any that is worthy for consumption. So where is my husband now? At Taco Bell. We tried to be good, but the Bell was a callin'. Maybe Taco Bell spies stole into our house while I was grocery shopping and broke our popper so as to aid our fall. Or maybe they do put addictive drugs in their food that time releases a craving every few weeks. Who knows? All I know is that I am eatin' Taco Bell tonight and I am lovin' it. It's my nasty little habit. I guess I could have worse addictions.

Wishful Thinking

My garbage disposal is broken. It has been for almost a week. (Remember, I told you my sink was evil? See.) I have greatly missed the use of my disposal. Cleaning up meals is a pain now because I have to scrape off all the food and make sure nothing goes into the sink while rinsing. The funny thing is I grew up without a disposal. Our first apartment in law school was my first time having a garbage disposal and I felt like we had moved up in the world. (I'm not hard to impress.) But I have become used to my magic friend and miss it dearly.

Every meal time I flip the switch to see if the disposal has been resurrected from the appliance world beyond, but my hopes are always dashed. Of course I try to convince myself that it sounds like the motor is trying this time so maybe next meal it'll work. Right. I just need to accept the fact that my garbage disposal is dead and move on.

The problem is two-fold. My husband is the man with the know-how to replace the disposal. Like I'm insane enough to try something like that on my own with three kids running around me? No way. But my husband dares to have a busy life and so I must wait for him to fix it. Hence, I hope and pray each time that I flip the switch it'll work again. Then there is the issue of cost. I really don't want to pay $200 for a new disposal. Yippee! What a fun things to spend money on! Sign me up for more partying. Maybe next month we can buy a new ceiling fan or toilet! Oh, please, oh please? I hope so! I know in the long run it'll be well worth the money to buy a new disposal, but it still hurts now to part with the dough.

Yep, I need to embrace reality and let things be. I do not have any cosmic powers that will magically make the disposal function again. It is gone. So now I just have to wait for Marshall to replace it. What a fun Saturday activity that will be!

Not NOW

This morning on my way to the doctor I was listening to NPR. The host was interviewing the president of NOW, the National Organization of Women, one of my least favorite groups. I once was a feminist, but then I learned my life would be happier if I let go of all the angst. It's tiring to be bitter about everything. The feminist movement started out with some awesome ideas and made some great changes, but now has gone completely insane.

The host was asking said president Kim Gandy about NOW's endorsement of Barack Obama. NOW doesn't usually officially affiliate itself with a candidate, so they say, but today they are announcing their endorsement of Obama for President. It's a big deal. Why? Because they are utterly opposed to John McCain and Sarah Palin. They don't like McCain for his stand on a number of policies. Fine. But NOW is really bugged by Palin. How can a woman who is running for Vice President, an excellent sign of the progression made for women's rights, be so morally opposed to abortion? This is the thorn in NOW's side. They hate Palin for her abortion policy. They say she is out of touch with most women in the US. Mind you, though, 42% of their members are in favor of Palin. Gandy stated that "42% is not a significant amount". Almost half isn't a big deal? Hmmm. I would disagree, but then again I am "out of touch". I am against abortion, though my views aren't are extreme as Palin's.

It's just another way of how the feminists keep contradicting themselves. "Yeah for a woman running for Vice President! Wait, we have to hate her because she doesn't support our views! She's bad and must be stopped at all costs! Boo on this woman!" So even though Sarah Palin is making leaps and bounds for women by running for Vice President, we must shun her because she isn't the next poster child for NOW? And since some members of NOW actually dare to like her, they must be "out of touch" and "insignificant"? Part of having freedom and liberation is being able to voice an opinion. You can have your's and I'll have mine, but do not jump down my throat if our opinions differ. Stop complaining and just be excited that a woman is running for Vice Prsident in the male dominated world of politics. It's a big step, don't miss it.

Life is Good

Life is good. Years ago I never would have thought I'd be able to say that. Was it possible to reach a point in life and be completely happy? Who knew? But I am. Not to say that I don't have bad days. My garbage disposal is still broken and nothing we can do will fix it. Looks like we'll be buying a new one. Food prices are high and my family has an enormous appetite. Some days, like yesterday, I am ready to quit being a bishop's wife. He's gone from 6:30-4:30 most Sundays. Just think what it must be like for him! But none of that really matters. It may darken my mood at times, but it can't take away my happiness.

Why am I so happy and content with life? It's because I have the Gospel in my life AND I am doing what I am supposed to. It's so simple. Do what the Lord asks and you will be happy. No brainer. Yeah, it may be hard at times, but the good far outweighs the sacrifice. That happiness is a part of every aspect of my life. I have grown to have a greater appreciation and love for my children. My patience with them has increased. I love my husband more and see all he does for us. He is such a good man, I can't get over it. And I am more able to see the blessings in my life. I never would have thought our first house would be as nice as it is. I never dreamed my husband would have such a great job. I have food on the table and clothes for my family and I can still buy some fun things here and there. We're all healthy. And my kids are good kids. They play together well and have good manners, at least that is what people keep telling me. They all love to learn and have happy dispositions, for the most part. And a healthy baby number four is on the way. Life is good for us.

I am sure I could have such good things in my life without the Gospel, but I know I wouldn't appreciate and savor them as I do now. And I wouldn't have the peace and joy every day that comes from living the Gospel. It doesn't matter what happens, I have that strong foundation to keep me safe. Bad things happen and can knock me down for a day, week, or month, but I am always able to pop back up and see the good in life and regain peace. Those feelings in our crazy and chaotic world can only come from the Savior and living as He would have us.

No Cameras, Please

This morning I was reading our local newspaper and came across an interesting article that yet again shows the stupidity of some people. The article was about a man being arrested for sending naked pictures of his ex-girlfriend to her boss. Man in custody had these pictures and tried to use them as leverage to get his girlfriend back. (That'll work!) When that tactic failed, man became bitter and sent the pictures to his ex's boss, who reported him to the police.

D'uh people! I know how this whole nasty situation could have been avoided. Don't take nude pictures of yourself or another person. Makes sense, right? Who says those photos won't get out? I mean, c'mon. Is your memory that bad that you need nude pictures of someone to remember what they look like? I don't understand this whole concept of taking such pictures of your significant other. It's stupid. If my husband took pictures of me, which I never would let him and he has never asked to, I would have to kill him. Can you imagine the mass hysteria and suicides that would follow if those pictures got out? I don't think the world would recover from such a scare.

I have a brilliant idea. Let's use our cameras to capture nice things. Some people think the naked body is art. Honey, I haven't seen a body clothed that I would dare consider art, let alone one au natural. So use your brain and spare the rest of us by leaving the camera off.

What's in a name?

I like traditional names for kids. Our children are Anna, Rachel, and James. I'm not one to use creative spelling or search out the most unusual names to shock people with. I'm not one to name my children after Book of Mormon characters. I love my children and want them to have happy lives. The best name I've heard is Foxton Doxey, the son of Marshall's mission companion. The poor boy will be called "Foxey Doxey" some day and let's just hope it won't scar him for life. But I am starting to have a greater appreciation for those odd name choices.

You see this new feeling has developed as a result of my plunging into family history. Oh how I wish my ancestors were a little bit more creative in their naming. I know it was tradition to name children after the husband or the grandfather, but it can make doing research very confusing. I have found the flip-flopping of the names Christian and Hans for four or five generations in one line. Okay, I get it, y'all like that name. Let's try something new! It makes things a bit tricky when one is trying to find someone and other people have the same name. The most frustrating is my great grand father Uriah, who also named his son Uriah. I have found the son, but am having the hardest time finding the father. I think he is hiding out or something. But if he had a different name, things would be easier.

That aside, I do enjoy genealogy. It helps to calm my nerves and do something good. On nights when Marshall is gone and I want to sell the children after putting them to bed, doing a bit of family research helps me relax. Must be that whole Spirit thing. But the names, I still wish they could use some more creative names and make my job easier. Oh well. Who can blame them? I like traditional names too. My ancestors are just going to make me work extra hard to help them. Stubborn folk! Good thing I didn't inherit any of their genes.

Proud to be an American

It's September 11th and time for me to reflect on this great country we live in. I remember seven years ago when I went to work and heard there had been some airplanes that crashed into buildings. I had no idea and didn't understand exactly what had happened until more details came out. It was a scary day. I remember hearing that an airplane had crashed in Pennsylvania and calling to check on my family there. Details were sketchy and panic was great. I knew I was carrying our first child and wondered what kind of world she would grow up in. The thought that someone would willingly do what those terrorists did was hard to grasp for all of us. It was unheard of in our country and it was horribly wrong that all those innocent people lost their lives.

The world hasn't ended and life has gone on. Terrorism still exists. But during that time we bonded together as a country in a way we haven't in a long time. Every September 11th since the attack, I reflect on that day and what it means to be an American.

Being a historian I love to compare my time with other periods in history. I am so grateful that I live when I do and where I do. As a woman I enjoy so many freedoms that weren't allowed in the past and still aren't permitted in other countries. I can dress how I want. I can choose whatever profession I want. I can be educated. I can let my opinion be known. I can be seen as someone with intelligence. And all these things I can enjoy without fear of punishment or penalty of death. Overall, I can worship my religion in peace. I can have my own political view and not be forced to align with one candidate or another. I can buy a house, car, and food for my family. It always amazes me that in our country, one can rise from nothing and become something great. We aren't stuck in one economic or educational class if we are willing to work for improvement. I have running water in my home, fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meat, dairy products, and restaurants galore. I don't have to make my clothes, I can buy them at the store. I have medical care available to me and my family, good care with doctors who have been properly educated. If I have an emergency, I can get a hold of my doctor quickly or I can go to the nearby hospital. I live in a safe neighborhood. I can drive my van to go on errands and on leisurely outings with the kids. My children have never known hunger or homelessness.

The list could go on and on. Many things haven't even been touched. The point is that the rights and freedoms we enjoy in the United States are not experienced in many other countries in the world. We are a blessed people. Our country is not perfect, but none is. We have far greater benefits living where we do than any other people. And for that I am grateful for the land I live in and the people who work to keep it free.

Imperfect

For all of you out there who think I am perfect, I am not. I do have bad days and I do want to sell my children at various times during the day. Like today for instance after I put Rachel in her second-time in five minutes for throwing a tantrum for not getting her way. It's been a day of drama.

But back to my not being perfect. I pride myself on looking good. I like to present a good appearance. I am a detail person and I pay attention to every minute part of my overall presentation. And no, this doesn't take time, it just takes being organized and anal, both of which I am.

So imagine my horror as my husband and I are walking into the temple last night when he turns to me and says "I hate to tell you this, but you have two different shoes on." What? No way! Those things only happens to other people, right? Nope. I could blame it on the fact that I can't see my feet as well as I used to, despite people who keep telling me how tiny I am. I could blame it on my kids who are always rummaging through my shoes and moving them around. Or I could blame it on being lazy and not checking my shoes. At least they were both white. You'd think I'd notice since there is a slight difference in the heel height. Oh well. Thank goodness we were going to the temple and I would be changing out of my shoes. But I did go out to eat afterwards with my mismatching shoes.

This is just another example that I am not perfect, that I do know how to laugh at myself, and that with each child I lose more and more brain cells. I am on number four and I am doomed! Doomed I tell you!

Life's Big Question Answered

At a recent doctor's check-up, I had fun perusing one of those silly women's magazines while waiting for my appointment. Sometimes it's just fun to read them and say "This is so stupid! Why am I reading this?" It's nice to give the brain a break.

There was a little column on "What to tip your stylist". Thank goodness they had some space devoted to that great and pressing matter in my life. Every month when I go and get my hair cut at Hair Cuttery, I always fret over what to tip. It's such a worry in my life and now I can be at peace. Oh gag! Please tell me there are more important things to worry about there, please!

The person writing the article must go get their hair done in a fancy salon, nothing like my bargain priced Hair Cuttery. The advice was as follows: For the person who cuts you hair 10-15% tip, for the colorist 10-15% tip, for the shampooer $5, for the blow dryer person $10, and for the coat person $5. So you're telling me I should pay someone $10 to dry my hair? Um, I don't think so. My four year old can dry her own hair. Perhaps I could get her a part time job teaching others how to properly blow-dry hair. And I don't know if I've ever been anywhere that has a coat check, let alone a salon. I could go to the salon and pay for the actual services and then drop another $50 or so on tips, right? I don't think so. I live on this amazing thing called a budget and I don't pay more than $16 a month, plus tip, for my hair cut and I dye my own hair when I want. I think my stylist does a dang good job on my hair. I'm not about to pay someone to do things I can do myself. But I can't cut my own hair so I am willing to pay for that.

I like living in my simple world. It makes things much easier and is much kinder on my wallet. But I am so grateful that if I ever do go to a fancy salon, I know what to tip. I can rest assured I won't make a fool out of myself. Thank you to that wonderful magazine for covering such a crucial subject. I feel so enlightened.

Milestone

Today marks a big day for Mr. Jimmy, my two and a half year old boy. I'm not talking about being potty trained, I wish, or some other amazing feat in a toddler's life. Nope. I'm talking about deception. Today was the first day that Jimmy told me a whopper.

Now he's said things in the past that aren't true, like when I ask "Who hurt Rachel?" and he'll respond "Anna" when it was really him. But today he told me a very smooth lie with all sincerity.

You see, there is this evil time of day known as "nap time". It is a cruel form of torture instigated by parents so as to deprive the younger children in the family of any fun, if there was anything worthwhile going on during naps to miss. Jimmy has been protesting this punishment for some time, even though he still needs a nap. When I told him it was time for nap, Jimmy replied "No nap. Daddy said 'No nap today'". Really? I hadn't known. So I checked with Marshall to see if this was true, but mostly just to share this cute lie, and he informed me that he hadn't called Jimmy this morning and told him naps were illegal. Whew! Good thing we're not double dealing in our house.

I am very impressed with Jimmy's creativity in his lie and his delivery. It would have been very convincing, if I didn't know any better. After all, Jimmy has had two masters of deception to learn from these past two and a half years. We call them Anna and Rachel.

A No- Brainer About Marriage

Yesterday, while we were at the in-laws for dinner, my mother-in-law read to me something from the paper about a study showing it's good for your marriage to put your relationship first and kids second. D'uh. (Not to my mother-in-law, but the study). I could have told you that without doing a study. It just makes good common sense. One great piece of marriage advice given to us, by an actual counselor, was the principle of driving. Picture yourself and how your family is arranged when they are all together driving somewhere. The husband and wife are up front and then the kids are in the back. The same applies to marriage. The husband and wife should ALWAYS be at the top of the list of importance and then kids and other responsibilities follow. There will be times when the order of importance changes and the spouse has to step down, like when a new baby is born or a child is sick, but the order must always return to the husband and wife being top priority to each other. Otherwise, problems will arise.

I think this is great advice and I try to live by it. I believe that a strong family is built on a strong marriage. The foundation, the rock, is a stable marriage. If you don't have that in place, everything else will eventually fall apart. And how to get a strong marriage is to make time for each other. Now I know there are work and church responsibilities that will come up and need to be met ASAP. That is just life. But if those responsibilities always come first, before the spouse, then there will be problems. You need to find time every day, if possible, to spend with your spouse. Some days it may just be talking for a few minutes before falling asleep. But you have to check in with each other and make sure you're both doing okay. That way when problems arise in the marriage, they can be dealt with quickly and not left to fester. I see it like scripture study. I find time to read my scriptures every day because I know it is important and I feel a difference in my life if I don't. Sometimes I end up reading them in the bathroom because it's the only place I can escape from my children. But I do it every day. In the same light, I find time to talk to my husband every day to see how he is and what is going on in his life. Why? Because I know it is important and I feel a difference if we don't communicate daily. And we spend down-time together whenever we can, even if it's just watching a show. It's important to find that time.

As for kids, I think the greatest thing we can do for our children is show them a loving relationship between Mom and Dad. Our kids say "Gross!" when we kiss. Good. Let them know Mom and Dad are mushy. I want to be like my in-laws who declared "Let the second honeymoon begin!" when their youngest left for college. I don't want to have dedicated so much time to my children that once they leave home I no longer know my husband and feel unsure about what to do with him. I've heard women mention that happening to them when the kids leave. Not for me. We live in a society that makes us feel like we are failing if we don't have our children involved in a ton of activities and sports. If we're not a part of every minute of their lives. That's just not healthy and it doesn't create children that grow into independent adults. What good is driving you child around to a bazillion different activities if you never get to spend time together as a family or couple? I'm not against kids being involved in things, but I do think there needs to be a limit and a question about whether or not such activities are destroying family time. We can't tire ourselves out dedicating every waking minute to our children and then leave nothing for our spouses. It won't make a good marriage.

So I say "d'uh" to that article about how couple time is most important. Tell me something I don't know! Sometimes the world is so clueless. Put your marriage first and everything else will fall into place. Your kids will giggle about you still being amorous at 60, but will also be grateful and be better husbands and wives for it.

Weekend Life

Sorry to do another cartoon, but today's was just so fitting of Marshall's life on Saturday, or any adult's on the weekend.

The Story of My Life

The Blessing of Laws

I just finished reading "Beyond the Burning Time" by Kathryn Lasky. It's a novel about the Salem Witch trials, a most intriguing and curious time in American history. Teh book was okay, but I don't think I'll ever learn enough about this dark episode from the colonial period. One cannot understand how on earth all those innocent people were killed without any form of tangible evidence damning them to death. But reading this book has caused me to greater appreciate living in a country and time where there are set laws and limits.

Even though I think some laws are silly, like the booster seat law just recently passed in Utah where all children 8 and under must be in a booster seat (this not allowing Rachel's preschool to do field trips anymore), I am glad they are set in place. Our beloved Founding Fathers had a heck of a time coming up with the Bill of Rights and then the Constitution. How on earth they were able to accomplish anything in the sweltering heat of a Philadelphia summer, especially without fans, air conditioning, or shorts? But they did it and they didn't kill each other in the process, an amazing feat. I am glad we have a system of set laws, even if I don't like them all. The laws help to protect me and my family.

You see, when the Salem Witch Trials were held, Massachusetts had no charter, no solid framework of laws. The colony's charter had been revoked and they were in need of another one. The new governor to the area didn't want to be bothered with the witch trials, he'd rather be out fighting Indians and the French, so he let the religious fanatics of the day take charge. Twenty three people were hung, crushed to death, or died in jail as a result of the trials. People who were arrested on charges of witchcraft and wizardry had their property and goods seized by the court and who knows what on earth happened to it all. Families were destroyed and innocent people murdered, all in the cause of fighting evil. As if none of those involved in overseeing the trials acted as devils themselves.

The kicker is that the evidence was based on the testimonies of girls ranging in ages from 11-18 about being attacked by witches. Most historians say it was a game of deceit gone horribly wrong. Others argue it was an actual medical illness that caused the girls to behave as if being tortured by unknown forces. Almost all agree it was a result of the "warring" factions between the Proctor and Putnam families. These two groups were always vying for power and land. Salem and Salem Village were growing and there was money to be had. The Putnams had a breakthrough when one of their daughters and her friends started to be harassed by specters in the form of other villagers. Soon the chaos spread and town folk started to blame all their misfortunes on accused witches. Some of the people tried and hung were the most pious members of the community. One was even a former minister to the area. Instead of saying "This is a bunch of crud. Those girls have gone too far", the common thought was "Oh no! If Satan can get to these saintly people, he can get to anyone!" Duh, duh, duh people! The stories grew, as did the fame of the girls, and by the end 23 people were dead. I think the trials will forever fascinate me because of their horribly unjust and tragic theme. This all could have been avoided if laws existed, if the people used half their brains and went on more than the testimonies of mere children. I know they were a superstitious people, but there were a lot of colonists at the time that were horrified and outraged by the trials. Not everyone was buying it.

And so we come back to the law. I'm not saying that there aren't injustices committed despite having laws. I know all about the Red Scare, Japanese camps in California during WWII, and immigration. I am not saying that some laws don't cause more problems than solutions or protection. I am not saying our court system is perfect. Far from it. My husband is a lawyer, we talk about these things, and I am aware of them. But what I am saying is that I feel blessed to live in a society that has laws. Where there is some form of order. In comparison to life in the colonial period, we have a sweet deal and I am thankful for the GOOD people who fight every day in their various professions to keep the laws intact.

I love Fall!

I love Fall. It is my FAVORITE time of year! Summer is ending and the weather is getting cooler. That means a lot here in St. George. But I love Fall for the colors and the holidays. I grew up on the east coast and enjoyed seeing sights like in the pictures displayed. We would ride bikes along the canals near Washington's Crossing, eat picnics by the Delaware, and drive around the hills of Pennsylvania known as the "river hills". My life was full of colors. It's harder being in St. George and not having the abundance of trees and colors, but we do have some colors here in Fall. And we can start opening windows in the morning to get intoxicating fresh air inside. Plus my sweet husband takes me up to the mountains to see changing leaves every Fall. He knows I crave that.



I also love the holidays in Fall. Halloween is close in tying with Christmas for my favorite holiday. I love the decorations for Halloween and the fun spirit of it. And the kids get so excited to see witches and ghosts and even more pumped to go trick-or-treating. What's not to love? And Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on our blessings and pig out!

Every Fall we watch BYU football too! It makes me nostalgic for life in Provo and seeing the colors change on the mountains. What a sight! It also makes me think of crisp air, changing trees, fresh apples, bonfires, apple cider, visiting the pumpkin patch, warm apple pie, jumping in piles of leaves, homemade soup, and cool rainy days. I love Fall! It's in my blood. That's why I decorated on Tuesday for Fall. You see, we waste no time in our home. It's September and that means Fall is on the way!

Modern Girl

I love the time that I live in. We have all sorts of benefits to enjoy by living in a modern world. Let's just talk simple things, like the oven, running water, washing machines, tampons, epidurals, television, phones, cell phones, cars with dvd players, air conditioning, etc. I love it all and enjoy it all! And I love disposable diapers! They make my life so easy. I do not want to be messing around with baby or toddler bodily functions. No way! First, it's gross, and second, the germs involved. Ugh!

Why do I bring this up? Today I met with the two other moms I am carpooling with for preschool. Both are great ladies, but both have become very involved in cloth diapers. They were telling me how it is so much more economical. You can pay $350 to have all the diapers and cloths you'll need for your baby's diaper lifetime. Now that sounds like a good deal. I drop $40 a box for diapers at Costco every month and a half. I don't want to know how much I've spent in my mothering years on diapers.

But let's look at this cloth diaper thing a little better. Yes, it's cheaper, but then you HAVE to deal with washing out diapers. One of the moms has her system down where she washes out the diapers in the potty, then sprays them down, and washes them in the machine every other day. The other mom is having her husband hook up a squirt hose to the toilet so she can spray them off in the toilet and then wash them. Even after you spray them off, you still have to wash them in a cold and then a warm cycle to get rid of stains and kill germs. If you dry the diapers outside in the sun, they will last longer as opposed to drying them in the dryer.

By this time in our conversation my head was spinning and I was wondering if these ladies were joking me about this being a great thing. Now I am not a lazy person. We all know I am a project fiend. However, I don't want to mess with poop any more than I have to. There have been times when I've potty trained my other children that I have just tossed underwear because the damage they did in them was not worth cleaning up. I don't care how much I wash out a cloth diaper, I don't want that in my washing machine. And who in their right mind wants to take all that time to care for cloth diapers? Not me! I have other kids to care for (and these moms do too). I have enough to worry about without washing out poopy diapers. I don't think any mom from the cloth diaper era would begrudge us young moms the use of disposable diapers now, unless they are insane. I will work and beg if I have to in order to have money to buy disposable diapers. Don't waste time trying to covert me to cloth. So I just smiled and nodded when I was told by these moms about their cloth diaper love. They asked if I was interested and I said I did find it intriguing, but I wasn't sold. And I did find it intriguing, wondering if they had lost all reason.

No, I am a modern girl. Yes, I've lived without a microwave, i-pod, or cell phone. I grew up without air conditioning or a dishwasher. I've had two babies without using an epidural. But do not take away my disposable diapers. There are some things I refuse to give up!

Best Gift Ever

Yesterday was Labor Day and I had the treat of having my husband home for the day. I realized once again that flowers, chocolate, and poems, though nice, aren't where it's at. My husband gave me the wonderful gift of his time yesterday to let me know he loves and cares about me and I am so grateful for it. (If you're tired of hearing about how wondeful he is, too bad because I love him!)

Along with it being Labor Day, it was Monday. Monday means laundry day and cleaning bathroom day. Ugh. I hate cleaning the bathrooms and like to get it out of the way ASAP. Marshall asked me first thing in the morning what he could do to help. He did his usual chore of cleaning the tubs, since doing that in my pregnant state makes me want to puke. Then he helped with folding, carrying laundry upstairs, and putting it away. It was such a treat to have someone else carry the laundry upstairs, let alone all the rest. I don't care how much I exercise, this extra weight in my front makes me so winded walking up stairs and even worse when I lug up loads of laundry. Everything was done by 9:30 and we were bored. I mean, what does one really do on Labor Day? So we decided to go grocery shopping. Another bonus! Two adults to three kids, I like those odds! It was awesome. I got so much done for the week and I had help! (And don't worry, Marshall had plenty of time to relax and nap the rest of the day!)

It's times like those that I am reminded how much my husband loves and cares about me. He's a busy guy and is gone from home a lot. But when he helps out, he lets me know that he is aware of what is going on at home. He knows it's hard being pregnant, do all the chores, and tend the kids. He appreciates all I do and he shows it by what he does. To me that is the best gift ever and one that lasts longer than flowers.

You get what you get

One of the biggest rules in our house is "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit." If you are mad that you got the wrong color cup, or think your sibling got more ice cream, or if you have to pick up your toys, or dinner isn't what you want it to be, then apply this statement. I am not sure where it came from; school, Grandma, or someone else, but it has become a theme in our home. The kids repeat it to each other whenever someone is whining over some injustice. It makes sense and it works.

Often I have thought about how this rule applies to life. At times I'll find myself complaining in my head about something and immediately I'll say to myself "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit." It's a great motto. Let me explain. There are many things in life that we cannot control. We can't control trials, random happenings, or other people. We just can't. But we can control how we react to them. For example, my two greatest struggles in this life are depression and the inactivity of my family in the Gospel. Both are things I cannot control having. Yes, I can take something to help me better cope with my depression, but I still have it. I can't take something to help my family come back to the gospel. I just pray for them, put their names on the temple prayer role, and hope. But I can control how I react. I could be negative and focus on how unfair it is that I have these trials. Why won't they just go away on their own? Why have they plagued me for so long? This stinks! I'll still have the trials after all the ranting and raving. There is nothing wrong with having a day or week feeling like this when our trials hit us so hard they knock us down, but at some point we need to move on. I can suck it up and realize "You get what you get." These trials aren't going away, but I can accept them as part of my life and move on. When I am having a blue day, I can do things to help me snap out of it. Or I could whine about it to everyone and drive them all insane. Focusing on the negative won't help. Same thing with my family. I can just say "This is what I've got for a trial" and deal.

We often use "you get what you get" when my kids think someone else has been given something better. "It's not fair that Anna has more snack", etc. The same can apply to trials. I see it as coveting if we focus on wanting other people's trials. "She has it so easy. She has no trials." or "If I had that challenge, my life would be so much better. Why is she struggling with it? It's nothing." Lies, lies, lies. If you had the life of someone who appears to have no trials, you'd quickly learn that their life isn't always sunshine and lollipops. If you had someone else's trial that you deem "easy", you'd get sick of it quickly and learn it ain't that easy after all. Yes, some people seem to have more curve balls thrown to them than others. Life isn't fair that way. We all don't get the exact same amount of trials, like kids getting the exact same number of crackers for a snack. So be it.

The choice we have every day is to accept the trials as our own and do what we can to live with them or overcome them. Some just won't be beat in this life. But the sooner we are willing to "get what we get and not throw a fit", the better our lives will be for it.