You know, I've just had the "blogging blahs". I have a few good ideas here and there, but never seem to have the time I want to write them or can't remember them when I do. It's summer and life is busy. So you get a random blog instead.
1. I fixed my vacuum. I took it apart on Saturday and couldn't figure out why the brush wasn't rotating. We were debating getting a new vacuum. I took it apart again yesterday and figured out it needed a new part. Now it works wonderfully with said new part.
2. Why did God invent three year olds? Forget "terrible two's". It's all about surviving three year-olds.
3. Which brings me to my next thought, is it really that hard to decide what to eat for breakfast? Jimmy asks for one thing and then refuses to eat it. Like I picked it for him! He choose it and then acts offended that I actually give him what he asked for. Three year-olds!
4. Why is it that I felt good for a week and got back into exercising only to feel yucky again? Hmm. I swear it is a conspiracy. That or dehydration. I always get dehydrated in the summer here because I forget to drink enough water.
5. I hate St. George in the summer. I love it aside from those three months of death heat. But in the summer I just hate it.
6. People who say they love the heat are insane.
7. "Kim Possible" is most likely my favorite kid's show because it is cute and witty. If I'm going to be stuck listening to something it might as well be something fun.
8. On the other hand "Lazy town" is the oddest kid's show. It's very annoying. I am glad my kids are no longer hooked on it.
9. Jacob has become an eating machine. That boy can put back quite a bit of baby food. He is one growing baby.
10. Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches are soooooo good. They are low calorie and taste delicious. How can that be? I want one right now. . .
11. So Marshall took my van to girl's camp and got it all muddy. The deal was he had to wash it afterwards, which he did last night. Today Jimmy smeared his ice cream cone all over the side of the van. I love it!
12. People tell me I worry too much about offending them. True. That's what happens when you grow up having to walk on eggshells. however, people tell me I have no problem "telling it like it is" when it comes to teaching Gospel Doctrine.
12. Mopping, laundry, and most household chores seem like an effort in futility when one has children.
13. Hugs, kisses, and "thank you" and "I love you" from my kids make all those efforts in futility well worth it.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Money Can't Solve Everything
Would you ever sue someone, and if so, why? I remember having a conversation with my doctor about lawsuits. He knows my husband is a lawyer and we were talking about how some people are "sue happy". (No, not happy over me, but rather like to sue people for money over the simplest thing.) We both agreed that sometimes things go wrong in the medical field and no one is to blame. My doctor did say he would sue another doctor who was purposely negligent and had harmed someone in his family. They are supposed to be professional and live by the code he does to help and care for people. I can completely understood and agreed with his reasoning. If someone intentionally harms you when they are supposed to be caring for you and are sworn to do so, they need to face some consequences.
Last year a tragic accident happened in our community involving a high school student that was killed while handling a blank-firing prop pistol. The boy was alone when using the pistol and fired it at his head. Hours later the fifteen year-old died from the blanks that struck him in the head. It was a sad event that could have been avoided.
In the paper today I read that the parents of the killed teen are now bringing a lawsuit against the school officials and police because the safety plan for the revolver was repeatedly violated. Only an adult was to transport, control, and fire the gun, which wasn't the case. Sometimes the gun owner's daughter took the gun to school in a lock box and often it was left unattended with the blanks in the sound booth. I can understand being upset that people didn't follow through with doing their part and adhering to the guidelines that had been set concerning the usage of the gun. People slacked off and it wasn't right.
However, as the parents admit, their son also had a part to play in his death. Says the father, "They were typical 15-year-old kids being stupid 15-year-old-kids. I blame my son to a point. He's the one who picked up the gun. But the gun never should have been there for him to pick up." He's right, the gun shouldn't have been out where it could have been misused. But it was. Yet his son was the one who picked it up and put it to his head. No one can know what was going through the boy's mind at the time or why he would think to do something so careless and stupid. Perhaps he didn't realize what the results would be. Still, he wasn't forced, he did it by his own choice. He is still accoutnable for his actions.
That is what makes it an accident. Two parties screwed up. The people in charge of gun safety didn't do their part to keep the gun locked away and the boy decided to use the gun in an inappropriate way. The results were tragic, but no one party can be blamed for the whole of it.
What I don't understand is the need to sue. Seeking out financial reparations and dragging this tragedy out longer will not help in the family's healing. It will only prolong their suffering and when all is done, whatever amount of money they receive will not bring their son back. In part of the law suit the family wants to be awarded money for the costs amounted from the accident and funeral. Understandable. But they also want an additional $2 million for pain and suffering. Let me say again, no amount of money will bring their son back. How will $2 million help them? They will still miss him and feel the loss of their child.
What will ease their pain and suffering is working on forgiving those who failed to do their part and their son for his actions. They can turn to the Lord to overcome their bitter feelings and forgive. As we learn from the scriptures, all things are possible through Him. It is only then that they will be able to heal and move on. Having a check for a certain amount of money will not bring that peace. It just cannot be.
If only we lived in a world where people worked to heal themselves rather than demand what they believe to be instanteous justice that will supposedly make it all better. Like I said, I do agree that there are some instance when a person should seek out justice through the law for some one's intentionally negligence. But sometimes tragedies happen that are accidents, no sole fault of one group or another. That is when the great challenge arises to overcome, heal, and move on. It is possible, it just takes a lot more personal strength and reflection than seeking out monetary reparations.
Last year a tragic accident happened in our community involving a high school student that was killed while handling a blank-firing prop pistol. The boy was alone when using the pistol and fired it at his head. Hours later the fifteen year-old died from the blanks that struck him in the head. It was a sad event that could have been avoided.
In the paper today I read that the parents of the killed teen are now bringing a lawsuit against the school officials and police because the safety plan for the revolver was repeatedly violated. Only an adult was to transport, control, and fire the gun, which wasn't the case. Sometimes the gun owner's daughter took the gun to school in a lock box and often it was left unattended with the blanks in the sound booth. I can understand being upset that people didn't follow through with doing their part and adhering to the guidelines that had been set concerning the usage of the gun. People slacked off and it wasn't right.
However, as the parents admit, their son also had a part to play in his death. Says the father, "They were typical 15-year-old kids being stupid 15-year-old-kids. I blame my son to a point. He's the one who picked up the gun. But the gun never should have been there for him to pick up." He's right, the gun shouldn't have been out where it could have been misused. But it was. Yet his son was the one who picked it up and put it to his head. No one can know what was going through the boy's mind at the time or why he would think to do something so careless and stupid. Perhaps he didn't realize what the results would be. Still, he wasn't forced, he did it by his own choice. He is still accoutnable for his actions.
That is what makes it an accident. Two parties screwed up. The people in charge of gun safety didn't do their part to keep the gun locked away and the boy decided to use the gun in an inappropriate way. The results were tragic, but no one party can be blamed for the whole of it.
What I don't understand is the need to sue. Seeking out financial reparations and dragging this tragedy out longer will not help in the family's healing. It will only prolong their suffering and when all is done, whatever amount of money they receive will not bring their son back. In part of the law suit the family wants to be awarded money for the costs amounted from the accident and funeral. Understandable. But they also want an additional $2 million for pain and suffering. Let me say again, no amount of money will bring their son back. How will $2 million help them? They will still miss him and feel the loss of their child.
What will ease their pain and suffering is working on forgiving those who failed to do their part and their son for his actions. They can turn to the Lord to overcome their bitter feelings and forgive. As we learn from the scriptures, all things are possible through Him. It is only then that they will be able to heal and move on. Having a check for a certain amount of money will not bring that peace. It just cannot be.
If only we lived in a world where people worked to heal themselves rather than demand what they believe to be instanteous justice that will supposedly make it all better. Like I said, I do agree that there are some instance when a person should seek out justice through the law for some one's intentionally negligence. But sometimes tragedies happen that are accidents, no sole fault of one group or another. That is when the great challenge arises to overcome, heal, and move on. It is possible, it just takes a lot more personal strength and reflection than seeking out monetary reparations.
Friday, June 26, 2009
6 months old!
Happy six months old to Jacob! he is my little chubby almost 19 pounder. Jacob is such a happy little guy. This video is of him laughing at me when I scream and act surprised. (That's why there is a squeal in the background. It's me.) Anyhow, focus on the cute baby, even though the camera doesn't do his adorableness justice.
The King of Pop
I've often wondered what would have happened if Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, and JFK hadn't had their lives tragically cut short. If they had been able to grow old and had more time for personal blunders, when their looks and talents had faded, would they still be immortalized after their deaths? Would JFK still be so romanticized had he had a chance to complete his term and let more of his policies go into action?
I thought about this again when I heard about the death of Michael Jackson. I don't care what your opinion is of the man, but you have to admit he had talent. He revolutionized music and truly was worthy of the title "King of Pop". And he could dance. Hello? The moonwalk! I still get goosebumps every time I hear "Thriller" and "Billy Jean", two of my most favorite Jackson songs. They just flow through me with their incredible beat and music. I can't help, but want to dance and be happy. Not to mention to fun music of "The Jackson Five". He was the one who really had the talent.
But I don't think younger generations will remember him so much for his skill. Since he had the chance to grow past his prime, he also had the opportunity to tarnish his reputation. His odd parenting habits, changing of his skin color, child sex scandals, etc. I don't justify what he did, but I do believe that entertainers pay a price for their talent by giving themselves over to the public. Very few of them come out unmarred. The scandals are what will be remembered by many, not the musical genius.
Michael Jackson was a skilled musician that also was plagued by personal demons. I hope he can find some peace. I'd like to focus on the good he contributed to the music world. Maybe I'll just have to bust out my "Thriller" album and get my groove on. After all, it is my children's favorite. They know their music.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
What Will You Be Remembered For?
What will I be remembered for? I thought about this after attending the funeral of my husband's sweet coworker. She was an amazing lady that was full of love, service, and humor. Hearing about her life got me thinking about my own. When I die, what will people remember about me? Is my focus on the right things in life?
I've been to a few LDS funerals and a lot that are not and never have I heard the following things said about the deceased: "She was known for keeping a really clean house", "He was expert at Mario Kart Wii", "She always had the cutest Relief Society hand-outs", "He had lots of money", "He lived in a huge gorgeous home that was immaculately decorated", "She worked hard to maintain her size 6 figure throughout her life", "She always wore the latest fashions", "He had the biggest flat screen tv I have ever seen", etc. People don't remember you for those things. They don't matter a bit in the eternal scheme of our existence.
This got me to wondering where my focus is. Is it on those material/ physical aspects of life that really don't matter? Am I putting my heart in the right place? I think for the most part, like the rest of you, I keep a good focus, but there are those times when I let something worldly distract me. There's nothing wrong with wanting to be healthy, cute, or have neat stuff, but if we allow those things to overtake our lives, they will define who we are. Those interests will consume us. When it comes down to it, all those things won't matter. What will be remembered is the kind of person we were, how we treated others, our testimony and church service, the example we set, and where we put the Lord in importance in our life. Those are the things people will remember.
I want to be remembered as a woman who loved the Lord and put serving Him and living the Gospel first in her life. A woman who loved her family and expressed those tender feelings in her conduct towards them. I want to be remembered for being valiant in my testimony and keeping my covenants. A woman who helped and served many. (kind of like Marshall's coworker.) I want to be known for who I was and what I did, rather than for what I owned, aspired to have, or how attractive I was. It's a big job, but I'm working on it. I know that in the Lord all things are possible and He will help me reach my full potential as I turn to and keep my focus on Him.
I've been to a few LDS funerals and a lot that are not and never have I heard the following things said about the deceased: "She was known for keeping a really clean house", "He was expert at Mario Kart Wii", "She always had the cutest Relief Society hand-outs", "He had lots of money", "He lived in a huge gorgeous home that was immaculately decorated", "She worked hard to maintain her size 6 figure throughout her life", "She always wore the latest fashions", "He had the biggest flat screen tv I have ever seen", etc. People don't remember you for those things. They don't matter a bit in the eternal scheme of our existence.
This got me to wondering where my focus is. Is it on those material/ physical aspects of life that really don't matter? Am I putting my heart in the right place? I think for the most part, like the rest of you, I keep a good focus, but there are those times when I let something worldly distract me. There's nothing wrong with wanting to be healthy, cute, or have neat stuff, but if we allow those things to overtake our lives, they will define who we are. Those interests will consume us. When it comes down to it, all those things won't matter. What will be remembered is the kind of person we were, how we treated others, our testimony and church service, the example we set, and where we put the Lord in importance in our life. Those are the things people will remember.
I want to be remembered as a woman who loved the Lord and put serving Him and living the Gospel first in her life. A woman who loved her family and expressed those tender feelings in her conduct towards them. I want to be remembered for being valiant in my testimony and keeping my covenants. A woman who helped and served many. (kind of like Marshall's coworker.) I want to be known for who I was and what I did, rather than for what I owned, aspired to have, or how attractive I was. It's a big job, but I'm working on it. I know that in the Lord all things are possible and He will help me reach my full potential as I turn to and keep my focus on Him.
Monday, June 22, 2009
I am Woman!
Ever since we moved into our house two years ago, the master bathroom sink hasn't drained properly. It's been really annoying. But, you see, we learned all about plumbing in my class last week and so I was up to the challenge to actually try to fix the problem myself.
This afternoon I took apart the pipes under our sink and washed them out. Then I unlatched the drain cover and cleaned out the drain pipe. Wow! I found some delightful blank gunk that must have come from some prehistoric tar pit. It was nasty/ cool. Then I reassembled the pipes and watched with pride as the water ran smoothly down the drain. It was such a high to know I had fixed it on my own and it hadn't been hard to do! And the whole cost of the job was only $.99 for the plumbing tape. Not bad.
So I pretty much rock. Sue: 1, House: 0.
A Time to Reflect
The loss of a loved one and friend always brings about a time of reflection. This past week a dear coworker at my husband's office passed away unexpectedly. The loss has been felt by all at the firm.
I didn't know Krysti as well as some. I only knew her from work parties, visits to the office, and stories Marshall would tell me about her. But she had a great personality. She had no problem telling you her opinion. She was always good for a laugh. I loved watching the dynamics between her and her husband. Sometimes it was almost like a comedy act because they were such lively people. And I know she was dedicated to her church service because she and Marshall would always be swapping stories and advice when it came to Young Women. She also loved her family. Her son is due home from his mission soon and she was anxiously marking the days off until he arrived back. She was one amazing woman and will be sorely missed.
Since her passing was so surprising, she was young and in good health, I am even more grateful for the Gospel in our and her family's life. It is one of those situations where you can't help but wonder "why?". Would it have been so awful for the Lord to have waited until her son came home so she could see him again? We could go on and on asking such questions, but it really wouldn't do any good. This is just one of those times when we have to trust in the Lord and His ways. Obviously it was her time to return back to her heavenly home. That doesn't make the loss hurt any less, but it can bring peace and comfort in knowing the Lord, the Master, knows what He is doing. We need to have faith and turn to Him at such a time. If we accept His will, no matter how difficult, He will help us to endure all trials.
My prayers are with Krysti's sweet family. I feel blessed to have been acquainted with such a fun-loving, sweet person and will miss her.
I didn't know Krysti as well as some. I only knew her from work parties, visits to the office, and stories Marshall would tell me about her. But she had a great personality. She had no problem telling you her opinion. She was always good for a laugh. I loved watching the dynamics between her and her husband. Sometimes it was almost like a comedy act because they were such lively people. And I know she was dedicated to her church service because she and Marshall would always be swapping stories and advice when it came to Young Women. She also loved her family. Her son is due home from his mission soon and she was anxiously marking the days off until he arrived back. She was one amazing woman and will be sorely missed.
Since her passing was so surprising, she was young and in good health, I am even more grateful for the Gospel in our and her family's life. It is one of those situations where you can't help but wonder "why?". Would it have been so awful for the Lord to have waited until her son came home so she could see him again? We could go on and on asking such questions, but it really wouldn't do any good. This is just one of those times when we have to trust in the Lord and His ways. Obviously it was her time to return back to her heavenly home. That doesn't make the loss hurt any less, but it can bring peace and comfort in knowing the Lord, the Master, knows what He is doing. We need to have faith and turn to Him at such a time. If we accept His will, no matter how difficult, He will help us to endure all trials.
My prayers are with Krysti's sweet family. I feel blessed to have been acquainted with such a fun-loving, sweet person and will miss her.
Friday, June 19, 2009
My Dad
Every little girl grows up thinking her dad is Superman, but the fact of the matter is that my dad actually is. When I think about my father and all he has done and sacrificed for me, I can't help but tear up and burst with my love, admiration, and pride for him. He is an amazing man.
My dad was raised in the good old farm country of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I remember him telling stories of the adventures of living without indoor plumbing and terrorizing his little sister with tobacco worms. I saw pictures of him as a young man and he was quite the dashing looking fellow. He joined the army and worked in the Officer's Club at West Point. No wonder my mom was so smitten with him. After my parents married he drove truck for 29 years. It was only when I became an adult that I learned he wasn't a big fan of that job, but he did it so he could provide for his family. He is a hard worker.
To me there seems like there is nothing my dad can't do. He's finished off rooms by himself, kept an immaculate yard and garden, squished rodents, hunted deer, caught fish, trapped squirrels, bowled a perfect game, and hit baseballs as high as the sky. I grew up thinking all men could do such things and was terribly surprised when I got married and my husband did not think he should have to catch the mouse that was in our apartment. I was spoiled by my dad.
My dad also made many sacrifices for us. When my parents divorced, we lived with him for a short time, but it was difficult to balance working full-time and caring for me and my sister. We eventually went to live with my mom, even though it was a very tough thing for my dad to do. Thereafter we only saw him ever other weekend growing up. He missed out on Christmas morning, birthdays, Halloween, Easter morning, and all those little everyday interactions that happens between a parent and child. I know it was so hard for him to not be a huge part of our lives, but he sacrificed it all for us so we could be in a home where there was a parent available. I cannot imagine what he went through watching us grow up and not always being there.
I love my dad. Words cannot describe how incredible he is. I love getting hugs from him and seeing his emotions come out in his tender eyes. He is a strong man. He is one of my heroes. I always wanted to marry a man as good as my dad and I am proud to say that I did. I only hope my boys will grow up to be as good of men as their grandfather is.
My dad was raised in the good old farm country of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I remember him telling stories of the adventures of living without indoor plumbing and terrorizing his little sister with tobacco worms. I saw pictures of him as a young man and he was quite the dashing looking fellow. He joined the army and worked in the Officer's Club at West Point. No wonder my mom was so smitten with him. After my parents married he drove truck for 29 years. It was only when I became an adult that I learned he wasn't a big fan of that job, but he did it so he could provide for his family. He is a hard worker.
To me there seems like there is nothing my dad can't do. He's finished off rooms by himself, kept an immaculate yard and garden, squished rodents, hunted deer, caught fish, trapped squirrels, bowled a perfect game, and hit baseballs as high as the sky. I grew up thinking all men could do such things and was terribly surprised when I got married and my husband did not think he should have to catch the mouse that was in our apartment. I was spoiled by my dad.
My dad also made many sacrifices for us. When my parents divorced, we lived with him for a short time, but it was difficult to balance working full-time and caring for me and my sister. We eventually went to live with my mom, even though it was a very tough thing for my dad to do. Thereafter we only saw him ever other weekend growing up. He missed out on Christmas morning, birthdays, Halloween, Easter morning, and all those little everyday interactions that happens between a parent and child. I know it was so hard for him to not be a huge part of our lives, but he sacrificed it all for us so we could be in a home where there was a parent available. I cannot imagine what he went through watching us grow up and not always being there.
I love my dad. Words cannot describe how incredible he is. I love getting hugs from him and seeing his emotions come out in his tender eyes. He is a strong man. He is one of my heroes. I always wanted to marry a man as good as my dad and I am proud to say that I did. I only hope my boys will grow up to be as good of men as their grandfather is.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Professional Marathon Tantrum Thrower
I love the "golden moments" of motherhood. Moms need to know they are loved and feed off of those good times, especially when it comes to dealing with a tired three year-old that can throw tantrums that would make a pro-athlete cringe.
My sweet little boy has entered tantrum age at full power. Not getting as much sleep due to the summertime later light hours does not help. It's always a question as to when the bomb will go off because it always does, one just doesn't know when. Yesterday we had two such tantrums. One over me having bought the wrong kind of milk, one with a red lid and not a blue lid. Curse me! It lasted for a good ten minutes and involved clinging to my leg and screaming while I tried to go upstairs to get the baby. Then we had a whooper later that day over a banana. I gave him one to eat on the way home from Grandma's. But the silly thing broke as he was eating it. Well, that did not suit and he began to scream and cry. I told him he could still eat it while in the peel if he just held it higher up, but that was like the stupidest suggestion ever because it just brought more tears. So I went to throw it away. He insisted on having it back and then cried about it being broken. Not wanting to spend all day fighting over a banana, I took it and threw it away. Holy cow! I must have mortally offended him or something because he then proceeded to cry for the next thirty minutes over his banana. I refused to give him a new one since nothing was wrong with the original piece of fruit and I have this "silly" thing about not wasting food. So he cried all the way home and at home during lunch. He just kept following me around yelling my name, but if I got near him he'd run off and if I tried to leave the room he's yell for me. Hmmm. I think by that point my brain was ready to explode. Somehow we got it all resolved without me giving in. I tell you, he has the endurance of a marathon runner.
That is why I found it very sweet and tender when today after I helped him get dressed he threw his arms around me and said "I love you, Mommy!" Awe. It's those little moments that make it all worthwhile.
They say "if it doesn't kill you, it'll make you stronger." That's great and all, but I'm more concerned about coming through motherhood sane. What are the chances of that?
My sweet little boy has entered tantrum age at full power. Not getting as much sleep due to the summertime later light hours does not help. It's always a question as to when the bomb will go off because it always does, one just doesn't know when. Yesterday we had two such tantrums. One over me having bought the wrong kind of milk, one with a red lid and not a blue lid. Curse me! It lasted for a good ten minutes and involved clinging to my leg and screaming while I tried to go upstairs to get the baby. Then we had a whooper later that day over a banana. I gave him one to eat on the way home from Grandma's. But the silly thing broke as he was eating it. Well, that did not suit and he began to scream and cry. I told him he could still eat it while in the peel if he just held it higher up, but that was like the stupidest suggestion ever because it just brought more tears. So I went to throw it away. He insisted on having it back and then cried about it being broken. Not wanting to spend all day fighting over a banana, I took it and threw it away. Holy cow! I must have mortally offended him or something because he then proceeded to cry for the next thirty minutes over his banana. I refused to give him a new one since nothing was wrong with the original piece of fruit and I have this "silly" thing about not wasting food. So he cried all the way home and at home during lunch. He just kept following me around yelling my name, but if I got near him he'd run off and if I tried to leave the room he's yell for me. Hmmm. I think by that point my brain was ready to explode. Somehow we got it all resolved without me giving in. I tell you, he has the endurance of a marathon runner.
That is why I found it very sweet and tender when today after I helped him get dressed he threw his arms around me and said "I love you, Mommy!" Awe. It's those little moments that make it all worthwhile.
They say "if it doesn't kill you, it'll make you stronger." That's great and all, but I'm more concerned about coming through motherhood sane. What are the chances of that?
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
'Sounds Like Life"
I recently heard this song on the radio and have come to like it because it is a good reminder to me that life just doesn't go as planned. Today, like most days, is one of those days.
DARRYL WORLEY - Sounds Like Life To Me lyrics
Got a call last night from an old friends wife, said, I hate to bother you
But Johnny Ray fell off the wagon, hed been gone all afternoon
Well, I know my buddy, so I drove to Scullys and found him at the bar
Said, Hey Man, whats goin on, He said, I dont know where to start
Sarah's old car startin to fall apart and the washer quit last week
We had to put Mama in the nursing home and the baby's cuttin teeth
Sounds Like Life To Me
I didnt get much work this week and I got bills to pay
I said, I know this aint what you wanna hear but its what Im gonna say
Sounds like life to me, it aint no fantasy
It just a common case of everyday reality
Man, I know its tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk youre caught up in some tragedy
It sounds like life to me
Well, his face turned red and he shook his head
He said, you dont understand, three kids and a wife depend on me
And Im just one man, top it off we just found out that Sarahs two months late
I said, Hey, bartender, set us up a round, we gotta celebrate
Sounds like life to me, aint no destiny
Yeah, the only thing for certain is uncertainty
You gotta hold on tight, just enjoy the ride
Get used to all this unpredictability, sounds like life
Man, I know its tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk youre caught up in some tragedy
Sounds like life to me (sounds like life to me)
Sounds like life
DARRYL WORLEY - Sounds Like Life To Me lyrics
Got a call last night from an old friends wife, said, I hate to bother you
But Johnny Ray fell off the wagon, hed been gone all afternoon
Well, I know my buddy, so I drove to Scullys and found him at the bar
Said, Hey Man, whats goin on, He said, I dont know where to start
Sarah's old car startin to fall apart and the washer quit last week
We had to put Mama in the nursing home and the baby's cuttin teeth
Sounds Like Life To Me
I didnt get much work this week and I got bills to pay
I said, I know this aint what you wanna hear but its what Im gonna say
Sounds like life to me, it aint no fantasy
It just a common case of everyday reality
Man, I know its tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk youre caught up in some tragedy
It sounds like life to me
Well, his face turned red and he shook his head
He said, you dont understand, three kids and a wife depend on me
And Im just one man, top it off we just found out that Sarahs two months late
I said, Hey, bartender, set us up a round, we gotta celebrate
Sounds like life to me, aint no destiny
Yeah, the only thing for certain is uncertainty
You gotta hold on tight, just enjoy the ride
Get used to all this unpredictability, sounds like life
Man, I know its tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk youre caught up in some tragedy
Sounds like life to me (sounds like life to me)
Sounds like life
Friday, June 12, 2009
Fun with Tools
I am in love. I have a new obsession. This week was my first week of "Tools 101 for Women". It has been a blast. I have already gone project crazy on our house with the knowledge I've gained. I've been fixing all the popped screws in our walls and tearing down some random shelves in the garage. Not to mention patching the five million nail and screw holes in the garage. I swear the previous owners were drunk when working in there because there are so many random nails and screws to pull out. So patching and repainting the garage is a project in the works. Along with caulking the kid bathroom. And the list will keep growing!
The class is a blast. It's hands on and the instructor is lots of fun. She and her husband built their house together many years ago. She has lots of knowledge and ways to make home repairs easy and fun. It's so empowering and I love it!
Since the class is "hands on", we get to use her tools. Talk about awesome. She gets her tools through Tomboy Tools. They are tools designed by women for women. They are made to fit a smaller hand and work with a woman's strength. I can tell you right now that I have a wish list of tools I want to get, like their handy hammer with a built in nail holder, ratchet screw driver, and the neat little hack saw. I also love their drill, which is smaller and lighter than most, but it packs quite the power. Plus you can get all their tools in pink and they are decently priced. Check it out at www.tomboytools.com. (I must stop drooling.)
Yeah, I am in heaven. And I am an ever growing list of projects to do around the home. I can't wait for our classes on drywalling and plumbing!
The class is a blast. It's hands on and the instructor is lots of fun. She and her husband built their house together many years ago. She has lots of knowledge and ways to make home repairs easy and fun. It's so empowering and I love it!
Since the class is "hands on", we get to use her tools. Talk about awesome. She gets her tools through Tomboy Tools. They are tools designed by women for women. They are made to fit a smaller hand and work with a woman's strength. I can tell you right now that I have a wish list of tools I want to get, like their handy hammer with a built in nail holder, ratchet screw driver, and the neat little hack saw. I also love their drill, which is smaller and lighter than most, but it packs quite the power. Plus you can get all their tools in pink and they are decently priced. Check it out at www.tomboytools.com. (I must stop drooling.)
Yeah, I am in heaven. And I am an ever growing list of projects to do around the home. I can't wait for our classes on drywalling and plumbing!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The Parable of the Swimming Lessons
We are all more like children than we would ever admit.
This past week the kids started swimming lessons at the city pool, the same place where we went last year for lessons and the same pool we drive by numerous times during the year. Since class is at 11:15, there have been times before lessons that we have run to the store and then planned to go straight to class. Every time we have done this, my sweet seven year-old gets very concerned. "Mom, do you know how to get to the pool from Target? You know the way, right?" Mind you we have been driving by the City Pool all year and have lived in St. George for three years now. I think I know where it is.
Once we arrive to the pool, most every day Anna points out that there are already people in the pool. Are we late for lessons? Did we miss class? I always have to assure her that it is the class before ours, we're on time, and I wouldn't let her miss her class. Sometimes I wonder if she has any faith in me. Hasn't she learned that I always make sure she is where she needs to be when she needs to be?
I saw a very good lesson in this experience of how I, and all of us, often do the same thing to our Heavenly Father. There have been so many times in my life when I have prayed about something and gotten the answer of peace, only to have some new and unforeseen challenge arise that causes me stress and fear. When the Lord said everything would be okay did He know a leak would appear in the water main under our driveway, Rachel would refuse to go to swimming lessons, and I would be sick for a week? Did He know about the bad economy that would be coming, my family dramas, and lack of sleep due to a baby? When He said I would be able to handle being a bishop's wife did He know there would be days of tears and despair, loneliness and sometimes frustration? Did He really know what He was talking about? Did He consider all the factors involved when He told me to have peace? I don't know what He is doing, but this isn't what I had planned on.
Obviously, the answer is "yes" because the Lord knows all things. Yet how often do we trust in Him and the answers and peace He gives us? Sometimes it is easy to go forward and weather the storms, but other times a wave will come out of nowhere and knock us off our feet, leaving us to wonder if the Lord really knows what He is doing. How silly of us to doubt! Just like I get my daughter to swimming lessons on time every day, despite her fears, the Lord knows what He is doing with each one of us and will guide us home if we put our trust in Him. He knows what is going to happen, even if we don't. So even in those tough times, we need to have faith and know that He will take care of us. If we put our life in His hands, He will bring us safely through and fulfill all that He has promised.
Of course, it's easier to preach about it than practice sometimes. Trials can often be distracting and take our focus off of the Lord. I'll just have to keep working on getting better and think of the parable of the swimming lessons. Until then I am sure there are times when the Lord listens to me doubt and thinks "Sue, just trust me. I know what I am doing" with the same amused reaction I have each day when Anna questions me. One day I'll get it. One day . . .
This past week the kids started swimming lessons at the city pool, the same place where we went last year for lessons and the same pool we drive by numerous times during the year. Since class is at 11:15, there have been times before lessons that we have run to the store and then planned to go straight to class. Every time we have done this, my sweet seven year-old gets very concerned. "Mom, do you know how to get to the pool from Target? You know the way, right?" Mind you we have been driving by the City Pool all year and have lived in St. George for three years now. I think I know where it is.
Once we arrive to the pool, most every day Anna points out that there are already people in the pool. Are we late for lessons? Did we miss class? I always have to assure her that it is the class before ours, we're on time, and I wouldn't let her miss her class. Sometimes I wonder if she has any faith in me. Hasn't she learned that I always make sure she is where she needs to be when she needs to be?
I saw a very good lesson in this experience of how I, and all of us, often do the same thing to our Heavenly Father. There have been so many times in my life when I have prayed about something and gotten the answer of peace, only to have some new and unforeseen challenge arise that causes me stress and fear. When the Lord said everything would be okay did He know a leak would appear in the water main under our driveway, Rachel would refuse to go to swimming lessons, and I would be sick for a week? Did He know about the bad economy that would be coming, my family dramas, and lack of sleep due to a baby? When He said I would be able to handle being a bishop's wife did He know there would be days of tears and despair, loneliness and sometimes frustration? Did He really know what He was talking about? Did He consider all the factors involved when He told me to have peace? I don't know what He is doing, but this isn't what I had planned on.
Obviously, the answer is "yes" because the Lord knows all things. Yet how often do we trust in Him and the answers and peace He gives us? Sometimes it is easy to go forward and weather the storms, but other times a wave will come out of nowhere and knock us off our feet, leaving us to wonder if the Lord really knows what He is doing. How silly of us to doubt! Just like I get my daughter to swimming lessons on time every day, despite her fears, the Lord knows what He is doing with each one of us and will guide us home if we put our trust in Him. He knows what is going to happen, even if we don't. So even in those tough times, we need to have faith and know that He will take care of us. If we put our life in His hands, He will bring us safely through and fulfill all that He has promised.
Of course, it's easier to preach about it than practice sometimes. Trials can often be distracting and take our focus off of the Lord. I'll just have to keep working on getting better and think of the parable of the swimming lessons. Until then I am sure there are times when the Lord listens to me doubt and thinks "Sue, just trust me. I know what I am doing" with the same amused reaction I have each day when Anna questions me. One day I'll get it. One day . . .
Monday, June 8, 2009
An Answer to Prayers
The Lord has shown me again how aware He is of me. I have had so much fun teaching Primary, but there are Sundays when I feel very overwhelmed and very much surrounded by children. From wrestling with them in sacrament and then off to handling some of my more energetic little CTR 7 boys, I am ready to pop on some Sundays. Lately it's been rough and I've been telling the Lord about it. Sometimes it's hard to get spiritually fed when you are playing referee to kids. I was really missing the feast that can come from going to Sunday School and Relief Society.
They say be careful what you ask for! The Lord heard my prayers and then some. Yesterday I came home from church with a new calling, Gospel Doctrine teacher! Ha! That will teach me! And I can't even blame my husband because he's the bishop because it was his two counselors who immediately thought of me when they were discussing who to call.
In all honesty, I am very excited. I LOVE to teach and testify about the Gospel. Living and studying the gospel is my life and passion and I love to share it with others. I know that I will definitely be spiritually fed now as I pour over my lesson each week and pray for guidance. I know I will learn and my testimony will grow as I prepare and teach my lesson.
I will admit that I am a bit nervous teaching adults. The last time I taught Gospel Doctrine was right after I was married. It terrified me. Almost nine years later I'm not as scared because I am much more studied in the Gospel and have had more teaching experience. But I am still nervous about working with adults, especially since we have a lot more elderly people in our ward. I won't be able to promise them something fun if they are good or do activities like we did in Primary! It's intimidating to know I'll be teaching people who know more than me. But it'll be a great experience and we'll get through it! I always love a challenge.
So beware, the Lord does hear and answer or prayers, sometimes in ways we wouldn't even imagine!
They say be careful what you ask for! The Lord heard my prayers and then some. Yesterday I came home from church with a new calling, Gospel Doctrine teacher! Ha! That will teach me! And I can't even blame my husband because he's the bishop because it was his two counselors who immediately thought of me when they were discussing who to call.
In all honesty, I am very excited. I LOVE to teach and testify about the Gospel. Living and studying the gospel is my life and passion and I love to share it with others. I know that I will definitely be spiritually fed now as I pour over my lesson each week and pray for guidance. I know I will learn and my testimony will grow as I prepare and teach my lesson.
I will admit that I am a bit nervous teaching adults. The last time I taught Gospel Doctrine was right after I was married. It terrified me. Almost nine years later I'm not as scared because I am much more studied in the Gospel and have had more teaching experience. But I am still nervous about working with adults, especially since we have a lot more elderly people in our ward. I won't be able to promise them something fun if they are good or do activities like we did in Primary! It's intimidating to know I'll be teaching people who know more than me. But it'll be a great experience and we'll get through it! I always love a challenge.
So beware, the Lord does hear and answer or prayers, sometimes in ways we wouldn't even imagine!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Can you hula?
I never could master the hula hopp and so am just amazed at Anna's skill. She can go for the longest time working her stuff. By the time I got the camera, she had been going for awhile. She is amazing!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Our New Addition
Despite the fact that it's been "one of those days" where I wonder how much three blond haired blue eyed children could go for on the black market, there is a ray of sunshine poking through the clouds. Our new dishwasher was installed! (insert hallelujah chorus) You see, when we bought our home two years ago, our dishwasher was well used and on it's last leg. But somehow we got two more years out of it. However, it got to the point where the top rack was falling apart and every time I pulled it out to put in or take dishes out, it would droop down and cause me to unleash a list of naughty words in my head, and sometimes even out loud. Very scary. So we finally decided that perhaps it was time to get a new dishwasher.
After two weeks of waiting, it has arrived and today it was installed. Praise to the man who did it! I now have a beautiful new Whirlpool dishwasher and cannot wait to use it. Sweet! I guess I'll have to find another excuse to mentally unleash profanities in my head. Kids are always good for that, right?
After two weeks of waiting, it has arrived and today it was installed. Praise to the man who did it! I now have a beautiful new Whirlpool dishwasher and cannot wait to use it. Sweet! I guess I'll have to find another excuse to mentally unleash profanities in my head. Kids are always good for that, right?
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Well Worth My Time
I love historical fiction because I love history. Not everyone can write about actual facts and dates like David McCullough, so I like to venture into the fictional aspect to make things more exciting. However, this can be dangerous grounds. I know I will be reading clean novels if I read LDS historical fiction, but what happens when I want to read about the Dark Ages? Hard to incorporate the Gospel into a book when it didn't exist in that time period. Reading non-LDS fiction is like walking out into a murky lake, you never know what you'll step on. I cannot tell you how many times I have picked up what seemed to be a good book, only to throw it down in disgust when I stumble across some vivid romantic interlude. People back then were intimate in the same way our bodies are used today so I don't need the play by play bedroom scene. Some things don't change with time, thank you very much. Argh!
That is why I was very pleased with my latest read, "The Other Queen" by Philippa Gregory. (She is the same author who wrote "The Other Boleyn Girl".) This historical fiction is about the captivity of Mary Queen of Scotts in England. It is written from the perspective of three people, Queen Mary and the husband and wife who are charged with keeping her at their estate. A most fascinating and clean read. I love how we get glimpses into the psyche of the characters. Sure, it is all fiction, but what fun would history be if we can't speculate a bit? Plus Gregory paints the revered Queen Elizabeth in a not so familiar light, one of a paranoid and egotistical ruler. Elizabeth did a lot of great for her country, but she also made some unwise decisions and rulings based on her fear of losing the throne. (Rightfully so since her mother was beheaded by her father.) I like someone who is willing to show the good and bad, within reason, of historical characters.
From start to finish, this book caught my interest. If you are in for a good historical fiction involving intrigue, spies, romance, and heartbreak, this would be it.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Worth the Sacrifice
Sometimes I wonder if I will ever not fall asleep at quiet time when we all sit down to watch a show. Will I ever not feel tired? Or will my stomach not rest in a fleshy puddle when I lay on my side, no matter how much I work-out and eat right? One day will I be able to go into public without worrying about attention that may be drawn to me, like from my three year-old pushing the baby stroller down the hill and watching it topple over with glee while I try to not murder him in public for doing it. (No, the baby wasn't in it, thank goodness.) Will I be able to go through two minutes of time without ever hearing that "Moooommmmm!" call that sometimes makes me shudder?
Yes, being a parent can be quite an ordeal that pushes one to the limit. There is nothing like it. But there is also nothing like the sweet rewards that come from it.
The kids started swimming lessons yesterday. I was worried about how Jimmy would handle it. He was terrified and cried the whole time, refusing to peel himself off my leg to hit the pool. But once class was over, he threw an even bigger tantrum because he had missed out. I had to pull the stroller out backwards to the car because Jimmy was hanging on the front trying to stop me. Yes, I dragged him through the locker rooms,across the lawn, and to the van. It was awesome! We got a lot of attention. (Sigh).
Today he refused to put his suit on and didn't want to go to class. Well, I threatened him with anything and everything I could think of because I know my boy is just stubborn. If I give in he's won. I did get his suit on him and to class, but once again he became glued to my leg. There were a few other kids who were having a hard time going and so the teacher took everyone to the kiddie pool. Jimmy sat on the edge with me to watch his class and soon was in the water playing and racing with everyone else. Then they moved back over to the big pool. He was so excited! At the end of his class, he didn't want to go. On the way home he kept talking about his teacher and how much fun his class is. Whew!
The look of triumph and pride on Jimmy's face after his class was priceless. He was on top of the world! All the sacrifices, like peeing in private and a perky chest, that I have to endure by being a mom are totally worth it when I have moments like that. I love seeing my children succeed and gain confidence in themselves. It's a wonderful feeling. Though much is asked of me as a mom, I receive countless blessings and tender moments in return.
Yes, being a parent can be quite an ordeal that pushes one to the limit. There is nothing like it. But there is also nothing like the sweet rewards that come from it.
The kids started swimming lessons yesterday. I was worried about how Jimmy would handle it. He was terrified and cried the whole time, refusing to peel himself off my leg to hit the pool. But once class was over, he threw an even bigger tantrum because he had missed out. I had to pull the stroller out backwards to the car because Jimmy was hanging on the front trying to stop me. Yes, I dragged him through the locker rooms,across the lawn, and to the van. It was awesome! We got a lot of attention. (Sigh).
Today he refused to put his suit on and didn't want to go to class. Well, I threatened him with anything and everything I could think of because I know my boy is just stubborn. If I give in he's won. I did get his suit on him and to class, but once again he became glued to my leg. There were a few other kids who were having a hard time going and so the teacher took everyone to the kiddie pool. Jimmy sat on the edge with me to watch his class and soon was in the water playing and racing with everyone else. Then they moved back over to the big pool. He was so excited! At the end of his class, he didn't want to go. On the way home he kept talking about his teacher and how much fun his class is. Whew!
The look of triumph and pride on Jimmy's face after his class was priceless. He was on top of the world! All the sacrifices, like peeing in private and a perky chest, that I have to endure by being a mom are totally worth it when I have moments like that. I love seeing my children succeed and gain confidence in themselves. It's a wonderful feeling. Though much is asked of me as a mom, I receive countless blessings and tender moments in return.
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