devil bugs

Whew. Thanks for indulging me with that last post.
But in continuing with the theme, if you do not like bugs, stop reading.

What I really wanted to share deal with this status update:






Two quick cockroach stories, and then, back to the grindstone.

A number of Christmases ago, I was so  excited to begin decorating. I went down to our store room to retrieve the cardboard boxes the ornaments and other decorations were stored in.

I brought them all in the house [our store room was separate from the main house] and began to unpack. As I unpacked, I began noticing these strange brown-black things.

Then I noticed that the sourdough ornament had been chewed on.

And that was when I realized that the cardboard box had been infested by those nasty devil bugs.

I stopped decorating for Christmas at this point.

Growing up in Arizona, the winters didn't get cold enough to kill all the lovely bugs, so they would show up from time to time. Once one came out of the loveseat and crawled onto my leg. The worst was right when you were going to step into the shower, and you noticed the huge brown bug staring at you.
*shudder*


Second story.

This one involves a Palmetto bug, spray starch and a mission companion.

It must have been night time, because I know I was in bed. All of a sudden I hear my companion squeal. Then, this thing is flying towards me. I run. Quickly.

I am of no use to her in the battle against the bug. No, no, I had the important role of seeing the whole field so that I could direct the battle.

We did not have the usually bug killing supplies [bug spray, hairspray and matches....] in the apartment yet, as we were the first to live there, so we had to be creative.

The only spray aerosol we had was spray starch, so that had to do.

The spray did nothing really to harm him, but when he eventually landed in the sink, he was so coated with the spray starch, he could not remove himself from the sink.

So, my brave greenie drowned the sucker.

If you want to learn more about the cockroach (a.k.a. devil bug) you may look here.

Let us now all go and do our dishes. :)

eww... SICK!

Oh what a day its been. Indulge me for a moment, while I elaborate.
Umm, but if you don't like potty talk, you best not indulge me.

Last night I went to bed around one or two for a 'nap,' and then I was to wake up around three-ish to continue working on my paper.

Instead I woke up at 4:00am and, well, threw up.

And again at 9:30am right before work.

And again at 10:30am in the parking lot of America's Bank after I made a deposit.

(At this point I told my boss what was going on, and asked if I could go home when the other girl came in. He said I should stop partying so hard. He's so funny.)

And again at 12:30 in the Really Nice Clothing Store's bathroom. Hopefully no Really Rich Customers heard.

At this point, I was told to go home. :)

So I stopped by the Friendly Neighborhood Grocery store, grabbed some bubbly and saltines.

I arrived home, and, you guessed it!

And again at 1:30pm.

Here's the good news, though...I slept lots, and have kept down some bubbly and the saltines.

Man alive, I wish I knew where this came from so it could be sent back.

Bright side: I got to leave work early! And, I may get my jury postponed. woo.

gratefulness

If you are looking for something profound, you may want to keep looking.

I, on Thanksgiving Eve, felt like sharing a few things that I was grateful for:

A vacuum cleaner, so that I may have clean floors
Dish soap for clean dishes
An almost clean apartment
A Kitty who still loves me after his Surgery
A soft bed in which I will soon be sleeping
A day off from work tomorrow
Watching good movies
Rice and beans with smushed avocado for dinner
Some chicken for Thanksgiving Dinner - oh bother, though I may not have Cream of Mushroom soup for the green bean casserole....I'll survive.
and
The bestest family in the whole widest world, as evidenced by these status updates:

Mattnew, who can memorize anything, and recite anything at will, Frau who is a dedicated teacher, and takes on those fascist Italians, and Amber, who took Paul off our hands. :)


Happy Thanksgiving to all, and to all, a good night!

here we are together

I'm sitting here on my oh so comfy couch. Next to me is a not-so-little-anymore black cat. [Question: Is it wrong that I like to poke him while he's sleeping?]

I started out this evening to post about what I've been studying in my Music of Southeast Asia class. Well, more how it applies to me right now.

But, I got sidetracked. [Do you like the new colors?]

But never fear, I am back on target.



For my project in the class, I am trying to answer why dancers would have been a target for execution during the Khmer Rouge. I finally have settled on an acceptable (at least to me!) thesis statement, and am beginning to really work out the organization of my paper. Once this is done, I'll be able to lay out what information I have already learned, and find any more information I may need to fill in any possible holes.

In reading stories of survivors of the regime, it has been hard to stay objective. Sometimes I even catch myself thinking flippantly about events that transpired. I guess so that I can continue functioning emotionally?

For example, one young girl relates how she and her entire family miraculously survived the years of the Khmer Rouge, and made it to Thailand in hopes of making it to a refugee camp. The arrived at a camp, and were then bussed to a location.

After disembarking the bus, they were forced to climb down a mountainside, through a minefield, then arriving back in their own country they had just fled.

And my 'Self' says: wow. that was really kind of them to do that.

[I just got distracted again. Big surprise.]

This is not the only story I've. And I doubt I would be able to read all of the stories that exist from that time period.

Many of the stories cannot be told. The number vary slightly, depending on the sources, but approximately 14,000 peoples were brought in for questioning (that includes men women and children) and only 7 survived.

'Self': hmm... wow. seven - that's an odd number.

Oh ya, and there's the story of the little boy who was the only one in his family who survived.

He knew his father had been killed, because his father would not lie. The little boy survived because he lied. Thusly, the boy learned that one survives through deceit and dishonesty. And others who believed that all that was happening to them was their fault, their karma. They must have done something wrong at some point, right?

'Self':   ...

And yet, there were stories of survival - even by people who were targeted. There are musicians who had ties to previous rulers, who survived, because they had an artistic ability.

'Self': what?

What we discussed in class was that the way the Khmer Rouge ruled was through fear. And this fear was created by changing the rules. Even those who were originally leaders in the organization were afraid for their lives. No one really knew the rules. Probably not even Pol Pot himself.

In a previous post, I've mentioned how I am grateful for the Plan of Happiness, and how there is justice for both those who do wrong, yet seem to not receive their dues and those who did not do wrong and were dealt a raw hand.

Now I would like to mention how grateful I am for a God who does not change the rules on us, thus allowing us to live our lives free from fear. I believe there is a reason fear is the enemy of faith.

I also love that it is my academic classes that are continually driving home these points to me. That makes me happy.

So much more could be said.

why i love maksim*

Yesterday was a rough day for him.

He insisted on jumping up on the kitchen table (an activity I do NOT want him to get used to) so I had to keep getting him off of the kitchen table.

Same day, he ran into my bedroom, and hid behind my curtains. I don't want him in my bedroom (though as he calms down, my strength on this decision is wavering.... shhh... don't tell Maks.) The only way to get him out is with a squirt or two from a water bottle. Yesterday morning he was dripping wet.

He still tried to get in the room. I think I may lose that battle.

BUT, today, when he jumped on the table, I did not need to manhandle him off. I just stood there, and pointed down. And he got down, after a bit of pathetic mewing. (But...But... he says.)

And then, there is my favorite way he lounges around on the couch.






He posed quite well for the picture, making sure his tail was in the middle, so you could see where his leggies are.

Seriously? Oh kitty, you are so silly.

And, I must skeedaddle: time for church.






* I needed another two syllable name. That was not feminine. And who doesn't like Maksim? aahahaha.

response to: how to get free chocolate

See here for what spurred this post. It was getting waaaay too long to leave in the comment section.

Read if you dare. It will be tangential, and long winded, and definitely stream of conscious. But, what else is new?


To Miss Scarlet:

Wow, you're a little bossy. :P

Haha, and, I did give myself a pat in the back.

AND, I've thought a lot about what we talked about (not stressing, etc.) since Monday, and I think this (book reading) has a direct relation to it.

I think I'll write a post, [which I am now doing] too, but because I sometimes take forever to write something, I'll give you my two cents about reading books.

I LOVE BOOKS. Remember that time when we still need to talk about Catching Fire? And there's a whole year until the next one that comes out? Or Tuesday night, instead of doing my homework, I read the Castle book? [I did get it done later....] ya... But do you know what?

1) My books (and my crocheting) literally were the only things that kept me at all sane last year [or at least some semblance of sanity], when I first moved out here.

2) Reading teaches one so much about life lessons, and helps one to see and hear new stories and ideas and use one's imagination. I think that it is an amazing gift that we can give ourselves that will help us in whatever we end up doing in our life.

3) Sometimes I do read more than one book, and I do have a stack of books that I need to read, and many that I want to get so I can read them. I love going back to old books like old friends. The first time I read a story, I read it just for a story. Then it's because I love the characters. I eventually will also read because of the way an author writes. That's when I know that a book has become a part of me. Does that make sense? For me to be able to step away from the story, and to see how a story is written. I love it.

I don't know if this is helping you with your problem.

Sorry, more practical.

When I'm reading more than one book (lately it's more likely that I'm listening to one story, and reading another) I sometimes have to turn the page back, to remind myself exactly what's going on, but I think you'll find that you become immersed in the story quick enough.

I've heard people who have the book in the car, purse, bathroom and bedroom, so that wherever they are, there's a book for them to read, so that they're never without.

My family is like that. We'll actually fight over books. Especially the parents. The only time I can remember them 'arguing' (besides pillow theft of course) is when one steals the other's book before they have finished.

My grandpa papa is currently needing to build more shelves (but not in the closet) to hold all his books.

Hmm, now I'm getting tangential.

Enough with the books. More tangents.

So on Monday, we decided to worry less, no?

My last transfer as an hermana, me and the comp decided (because we both tend to be little stress-balls) made it a goal to have fun every day. And to achieve this goal [see what good little missionaries we were? :)] we were going to do something as simple as take a picture every day.

I cannot tell you what a difference that made. Some of those pictures are my favorite pictures I own. Many times we would ask the random people we talked to if we could take a picture with them.

There's the one of us with the man, by the pine tree. There's the one with my head cut off of me and Kate with la pastora. Or the cows in the swampy land... But I digress.

It worked. We had fun. And we were still able to work hard.

As I was being driven by a member to Tampa to be booted out of the mission, our friend who was driving related something she'd heard about us. One of the members said that they knew we were good missionaries because she could always feel the Spirit around us, and that we were always so happy together. I wish that I could remember the exact words, because it illustrates my point. And my point is, we had an outlet for stress. And eventually we stopped stressing. And then we started having fun, even. And I think that the Spirit is more able to work with us, and be there with us, when we are not caught up in concerns, be they ever so big, or ever so small.

So, back to books, if books are something that helps you have fun, and thus more fully experience the Spirit in your life, I say go for it.

The other thing that I would suggest, is making it a simple goal. for example, the photograph thing? That was not something hard, that really interfered with missionary work. If it was, I think it would have caused more harm than good, by causing more stress. For example, maybe saying, I will allow myself at least one hour of quality time with my book a day. It's enough for your outlet, but it's not so much that it would interfere with school work, and thus cause you more stress.

And that, my friend, is my response. Super long, and probably doesn't help you too much with your book problem (sorry!) but I think refers more to paragraph three.

And to those who actually made it through - any thoughts or suggestions for me or Miss Scarlet?

neato

Photos: Ansel Adams in Color

sharing is caring

I'm about to pop off to bed, via that nasty thing called cough medicine. *cough* *cough*
I know, so dramatic. My dad accused me of being dramatic while still a small child. I'm finding out he may have been true.

But before I go, I wanted to share two videos that a friend posted.

One, because I now get to help little old ladies like this one at work:



And this one, because it is my life. Or at least a huge part of it.



(Well, minus coffee of course. I recently found some quite tasty sparkling blood orange juice....)

And for my mum, I have started the paper. There is now a file saved, and started. So, some progress.

it's that time again

Yup, when I'm officially putting off writing my paper, and instead find all sorts of useless information on the internet.
For example, someone needs a Halloween costume. Someone was diagnosed with the swine flu and now needs to get a sub. Wow.

For your paper-putting-off-pleasure (and feel free to substitute whatever you probably should be doing at the moment for paper) I shall provide you with a picture.



Your job, should you choose to accept it, is to find the wee furry beastie that is hiding somewhere in the frame.

Today has been a good day. I got up when I woke up. Got my new thesis off to the professor. Took a nap. Made some quite tasty cheesey broccoli soup. sans celery. I'll stoop to adding onions, because they actually can add some flavor. But celery? Nope. Had a brunch with a school friend where we ate said tasty soup. Jaunted off to church, where I mostly successfully played one of the hardest Children's Primary Songs. Mostly only because I biffed the introduction badly. (Thankfully Primary kids really don't care.) Came home, had more tasty soup, this time with a layer of cheese warmed in the oven. Napped again. (I'm allowed, I'm sick.) Then thought about beginning my paper due Wednesday. Then, a friend called! Yay. We talked for about an hour. And now, once again, thinking about beginning my paper.

I was going to post some things that I've learned this past semester. You know, life lessons and the like, but I got distracted once again.

Don't hold your breath for these lessons I've learned, though I will try to check in a bit sooner next time.

the cat formerly known as maxine

Remember how I had problems finding a name for Kitty?

If you don't remember, well, I did.

I even had a poll and everything, which I completely disregarded.

Today the Doggy Doctor said that Maxine was a good name, because it could be easily shortened to Max.

I hope Max doesn't mind that his bed, carrier, and food bowl are all pink. (He's gifting his pink collar to his sister, Ophelia, previously known as Othello. Who knew cats changed gender, just like Flounders??)

Poor Max. I keep telling him real men wear pink.

dreams

I must've woken up and gone back to sleep this morning, for I remembered my dream. I never remember my dreams. After you read this, you'll know that that's probably a good thing.
.
I briefly mentioned the story line to a friend this morning. She suggested that it was a dream worth analyzing. But alas, I was not given that ability. So I ask you, intrepid reader, to interpret the dream for me.

I see some one running through the forest, and realize it's Nephi. Of I Nephi fame. (He's a good guy.)

I can't remember a whole lot of what happens until I see him killing an entire family, except for the baby. Of course there must be a reason for this: Nephi is a good guy.

This is where I enter the dream as more than an observer - I am asked to run after Nephi while hauling and protecting the baby. I think I realize that this is a baby that is going to grow up to be King Noah. (A bad guy). And we're trying to prevent that from happening by moving him to a different location and having a happier childhood or something.

Then somehow we're in this building, running up stair after stair, that is congregated with thousands of people going down in the opposite direction. I'm supposed to follow Nephi up these stairs, running, whilst toting the tot. I fall sort of behind. Then I fall really really behind, and don't see the hero anymore.

And enter the creepy evil lady. She's always on my heels, trying to steal the babe. I run and run, and call out, and nothing happens.

Somehow we end up in the basement, me just earlier than her to wedge the baby in an air vent filled with straw. Of course I don't get the vent completely closed enough.

I'm grateful that it was at this point that I start to wake up and realize that this is a weird dream, because I think the lady was about to do some creepy divining to find the baby. *shudder*

So what does this all mean?

I think it means that one should not mix:

The Hill Cumorah (Nephi and King Noah)

with

Really Nice Clothing Store (creepy old lady)

and

the books River Secrets (trees) or Graceling (secret killer)


together with a homework tired mind.


What do you think?

ponderings: 1

I've decided to share occasional thoughts I've had via the blogosphere. How is any different from previous ramblings? Well, as I try to figure out life (HA) I've been reminded of lessons I've previously learned, that once again are wonderfully applicable. Most will be based in Latter-day Saint beliefs, but I believe will be more generally applicable.




As I was talking with a good friend this evening, I was reminded of a General Conference talk that had an impact on my life.

I found it, and sent it to her, and decided to reread it. It is E. Holland's, The Other Prodigal. So good.

Every word of the talk dealt with many of the issues that I'll be trying to tackle when I begin to research for my not-quite-a-dissertation-paper-thing.

I've included the talk below, highlighting some sentences that I feel are extra pertinent.

Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Other Prodigal,” Liahona, Jul 2002, 69–72

No one of us is less treasured or cherished of God than another. I testify that He loves each of us—insecurities, anxieties, self-image, and all.


Among the most memorable parables the Savior ever told is the story of a foolish younger brother who went to his father, asked for his portion of the estate, and left home to squander his inheritance, the scripture says, in “riotous living.” 1 His money and his friends disappeared sooner than he thought possible—they always do—and a day of terrible reckoning came thereafter—it always does. In the downward course of all this he became a keeper of pigs, one so hungry, so stripped of sustenance and dignity that he “would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat.” But even that consolation was not available to him.

Then the scripture says encouragingly, “He came to himself.” He determined to find his way home, hoping to be accepted at least as a servant in his father’s household. The tender image of this boy’s anxious, faithful father running to meet him and showering him with kisses is one of the most moving and compassionate scenes in all of holy writ. It tells every child of God, wayward or otherwise, how much God wants us back in the protection of His arms.

But being caught up in this younger son’s story, we can miss, if we are not careful, the account of an elder son, for the opening line of the Savior’s account reads, “A certain man had two sons”—and He might have added, “both of whom were lost and both of whom needed to come home.”

The younger son has returned, a robe has been placed on his shoulders and a ring on his finger, when the older son comes on the scene. He has been dutifully, loyally working in the field, and now he is returning. The language of parallel journeys home, though from very different locations, is central to this story.

As he approaches the house, he hears the sounds of music and laughter.

“And he called one of the servants [note that he has servants], and asked what these things meant.

“And [the servant] said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

“And [the older brother] was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.”

You know the conversation they then had. Surely, for this father, the pain over a wayward child who had run from home and wallowed with swine is now compounded with the realization that this older, wiser brother, the younger boy’s childhood hero as older brothers always are, is angry that his brother has come home.

No, I correct myself. This son is not so much angry that the other has come home as he is angry that his parents are so happy about it. Feeling unappreciated and perhaps more than a little self-pity, this dutiful son—and he is wonderfully dutiful—forgets for a moment that he has never had to know filth or despair, fear or self-loathing. He forgets for a moment that every calf on the ranch is already his and so are all the robes in the closet and every ring in the drawer. He forgets for a moment that his faithfulness has been and always will be rewarded.

No, he who has virtually everything, and who has in his hardworking, wonderful way earned it, lacks the one thing that might make him the complete man of the Lord he nearly is. He has yet to come to the compassion and mercy, the charitable breadth of vision to see that this is not a rival returning. It is his brother. As his father pled with him to see, it is one who was dead and now is alive. It is one who was lost and now is found.

Certainly this younger brother had been a prisoner—a prisoner of sin, stupidity, and a pigsty. But the older brother lives in some confinement, too. He has, as yet, been unable to break out of the prison of himself. He is haunted by the green-eyed monster of jealousy. 2 He feels taken for granted by his father and disenfranchised by his brother, when neither is the case. He has fallen victim to a fictional affront. As such he is like Tantalus of Greek mythology—he is up to his chin in water, but he remains thirsty nevertheless. One who has heretofore presumably been very happy with his life and content with his good fortune suddenly feels very unhappy simply because another has had some good fortune as well.

Who is it that whispers so subtly in our ear that a gift given to another somehow diminishes the blessings we have received? Who makes us feel that if God is smiling on another, then He surely must somehow be frowning on us? You and I both know who does this—it is the father of all lies. 3 It is Lucifer, our common enemy, whose cry down through the corridors of time is always and to everyone, “Give me thine honor.” 4

It has been said that envy is the one sin to which no one readily confesses, but just how widespread that tendency can be is suggested in the old Danish proverb, “If envy were a fever, all the world would be ill.” The parson in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales laments it because it is so far-reaching—it can resent anything, including any virtue and talent, and it can be offended by everything, including every goodness and joy. 5 As others seem to grow larger in our sight, we think we must therefore be smaller. So, unfortunately, we occasionally act that way.

How does this happen, especially when we wish so much that it would not? I think one of the reasons is that every day we see allurements of one kind or another that tell us what we have is not enough. Someone or something is forever telling us we need to be more handsome or more wealthy, more applauded or more admired than we see ourselves as being. We are told we haven’t collected enough possessions or gone to enough fun places. We are bombarded with the message that on the world’s scale of things we have been weighed in the balance and found wanting. 6 Some days it is as if we have been locked in a cubicle of a great and spacious building where the only thing on the TV is a never-ending soap opera entitled Vain Imaginations. 7

But God does not work this way. The father in this story does not tantalize his children. He does not mercilessly measure them against their neighbors. He doesn’t even compare them with each other. His gestures of compassion toward one do not require a withdrawal or denial of love for the other. He is divinely generous to both of these sons. Toward both of his children he extends charity. I believe God is with us the way my precious wife, Pat, is with my singing. She is a gifted musician, something of a musical genius, but I couldn’t capture a musical note with Velcro. And yet I know she loves me in a very special way when I try to sing. I know that because I can see it in her eyes. They are the eyes of love.

One observer has written: “In a world that constantly compares people, ranking them as more or less intelligent, more or less attractive, more or less successful, it is not easy to really believe in a [divine] love that does not do the same. When I hear someone praised,” he says, “it is hard not to think of myself as less praiseworthy; when I read about the goodness and kindness of other people, it is hard not to wonder whether I myself am as good and kind as they; and when I see trophies, rewards, and prizes being handed out to special people, I cannot avoid asking myself why that didn’t happen to me.” 8 If left unresisted, we can see how this inclination so embellished by the world will ultimately bring a resentful, demeaning view of God and a terribly destructive view of ourselves. Most “thou shalt not” commandments are meant to keep us from hurting others, but I am convinced the commandment not to covet is meant to keep us from hurting ourselves.

How can we overcome such a tendency so common in almost everyone? For one thing, we can do as these two sons did and start making our way back to the Father. We should do so with as much haste and humility as we can summon. Along the way we can count our many blessings and we can applaud the accomplishments of others. Best of all, we can serve others, the finest exercise for the heart ever prescribed. But finally these will not be enough. When we are lost, we can “come to ourselves,” but we may not always be able to “find ourselves,” and, worlds without end, we cannot “save ourselves.” Only the Father and His Only Begotten Son can do that. Salvation is in Them only. So we pray that They will help us, that They will “come out” to meet and embrace us and bring us into the feast They have prepared.

They will do this! The scriptures are replete with the promise that God’s grace is sufficient. 9 This is one arena where no one has to claw or compete. Nephi declares that the Lord “loveth the [whole] world” and has given salvation freely.

“Hath [He] commanded any that they should not partake of his goodness?” Nephi asks. No! “All … are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden [at His hand].”

“Come unto me all ye ends of the earth,” He pleads, and buy milk without money and honey without price. 10All are privileged, the one like unto the other. Walk peacefully. Walk confidently. Walk without fear and without envy. Be reassured of Heavenly Father’s abundance to you always.

As we do this, we can help others, calling down blessings on them even as they make supplication for us. We can cheer every talent and ability, wherever it is bestowed, thus making life here more nearly what it will be like in heaven.

It will help us always to remember Paul’s succinct prioritizing of virtues—“Now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” 11 He reminds us we are all of the body of Christ, and that all members, whether comely or feeble, are adored, essential, and important. We feel the depth of his plea that there be “no schism in the body, but that the members … have the same care one for another. And [when] one member suffer[s], all the members suffer with it; or [when] one member [is] honoured, all the members rejoice.” 12 That incomparable counsel helps us remember that the word generosity has the same derivation as the word genealogy, both coming from the Latin genus, meaning of the same birth or kind, the same family or gender. 13 We will always find it easier to be generous when we remember that this person being favored is truly one of our own.

Brothers and sisters, I testify that no one of us is less treasured or cherished of God than another. I testify that He loves each of us—insecurities, anxieties, self-image, and all. He doesn’t measure our talents or our looks; He doesn’t measure our professions or our possessions. He cheers on every runner, calling out that the race is against sin, not against each other. I know that if we will be faithful, there is a perfectly tailored robe of righteousness ready and waiting for everyone, 14 “robes … made … white in the blood of the Lamb.” 15 May we encourage each other in our effort to win that prize is my earnest prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

1. See Luke 15:11–32.
2. See William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice, act 3, scene 2, line 110.
3. See 2 Ne. 2:18.
4. Moses 4:1.
5. See Geoffrey Chaucer, The Canterbury Tales, ed. Walter W. Skeat (1929), 534–35.
6. See Dan. 5:27 (double entendre doubly intended).
7. See 1 Ne. 12:18.
8. Henri J. M. Nouwen, The Return of the Prodigal Son (1992), 103.
9. See Ether 12:26; Moro. 10:32; D&C 17:8.
10. See 2 Ne. 26:24–28; emphasis added.
11. 1 Cor. 13:13.
12. See 1 Cor. 12:25–26.
13. I am indebted to Henri Nouwen for pointing out this etymological link.
14. See Isa. 61:10; 2 Ne. 4:33; 2 Ne. 9:14.
15. Rev. 7:14.

Eventually I hope to be answering How this competition, this jealousy rises up in the music world. I use the word jealousy loosely. I think the word covers the desire to be the best, or self-hatred for not being the best, and many other aspect that many classical musicians experience. (I know these problems have bearing on most any profession. I'm giving an example.) And hopefully propose ways to overcome and even turn things around.

FOR, I think one of the results of jealousy is that we stop doing things because we enjoy them. Instead, it's because we must. Or have to, or we're forced to, etc. etc. In a competition, you begin to look for the end product, instead of the whole picture.

Enough for now. Time for bed.

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willpower, or a study of my lack thereof

Tuesday I went shopping at everybody's favorite Super Mega Mart, trying hard at a new attempt at uber-frugalness.

As I make the transition to the food section, I pass through the most dangerous aisle in the entire store: The Book Aisle.

Rewind to sometime last year...I just finished listening to the Hunger Games and loved the book. Though the ending left some plots unfinished, I was actually content with how things ended. I didn't need a sequel. Until I found out there was to be one: Catching Fire.

Remember my uber-frugality? Well, I had decided I was not going to get a hard copy - I'd just wait to get the audiobook with my normal monthly subscription.

All that resolve crumbled when I saw the newly released book, sitting there, temptingly, in the aforementioned Book Aisle.


Fine.


So I gave in! What's the big deal? It's a book, and books make you smarter, no?


BUT, I was now going to wait till the weekend to read the darn thing.

I'm sure you can guess how long that lasted. One day. Even I knew as I sat down at 10:30pm to read 'just one chapter.'

I almost made it! But after Chapter 1, I said, 'just one more....'

I vaguely remember seeing the number three pass by.

There was another chance when I moved from the couch to my room at Part II.

There was not turning back by Part III.

Four and a half hours later, it was over. I even reread the last chapter again, like trying to sop up any leftover goodness from a fabulous meal.

Well, I guess I'll have a chance to test my willpower again next year when the final installment in the trilogy is released.

sigh.

in other news

Yay for mythical creatures existing.

Boo for cold weather.

book: the scarlet pimpernel

The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I've known this story for a long time thanks to movies, musicals and an Hugh Laurie abridged narration. Yet, the unabridged help to fill in some gaps. Hah, and I saw where they had edited some ethnic backgrounds for Political Correctness.I'll admit, I did get a bit tired of hearing how Margot was so brilliant and beautiful, but other than that, a fun fast fabulous read.

View all my reviews >>

da dum-da-dum-da-da-da-da-da-da-daaaaa

[imagine the death knell, tolling....]

School is starting.

Really, I do like school.

The other day, the Really Nice Clothing store received a shipment of 'Icelandic' brand vests. I was reminded of sixth grade, when I the over-achiever wrote a 60 (or some other obscene number) page report on Iceland. Complete with a pretty spiffy map overlay that showed how Iceland was the land of fire and ice.*

Just today, while thinking on what I'd like to write my 'document' on, I remembered the survey I did of all the oboe method books in the library. I remember sitting in the MT section for hours on end during my first degree, comparing the different etude books, etc. Perhaps the weirdest of that experience was that it was completely enjoyable.**

There was the Harry Potter paper. Or how arundo donaxchanged the world, or the short document about the appropriateness of Orff's lyrics. Or my first exposure to ethnomusicology (though I didn't know it at the time) when I wrote about the Igbo people's music when we were to write about something from Chinua Achebe's book.

Each of these papers received various degrees of acceptable grades. Never an A, only A-'s or below. Even when they weren't As, I still felt I had learned something, and that if I would have spent a little more time refining (i.e. edited a bit more), I would have done better academically. I also learned that grades were not a motivating factor for me. The motivation must come from within.

That is my goal for this new academic year - to find something for which I can motivate myself to investigate, something that I find meaningful. Perhaps this is selfish of me. Yet, I have also found that 'when I'm helping, I'm happ[ier].'

Last semester a professor asked me what my passions were. I still don't know how to articulate them.

For example, it's not the oboe, but what can be done with the oboe.

It's not the reed, but how trying different things with the reed can make it feel more comfortable, sound that much better and convey emotions even more strongly.

So where am I going with these ramblings?

Last year I stepped out on a limb; clambered a bit too far out on a branch when I traversed 'cross the country solita. I enjoyed school and the connections I made there. Conversely, I also felt at times that I was not always taken seriously.

More importantly, I'm tired of me putting forth a mediocre effort on my part because of the thin wobbly branch I was on.

[Side note: kitty's tail is fwopping angrily. Maybe if she'd stop biting me I'd stop plucking her off my lap. She has this strange desire to attack knees that are at rest.]

Instead of retreating, which I have been sorely tempted to do, I choose instead to reinforce this wobbly metaphorical branch where I'm perched.

As of now, I'm not quite sure how this is going to happen, but I think I have taken steps in the right direction.

***

My Academic Credo
I will not allow myself to be in school situations where I felt demeaned, because, though I am good at complaining, I'd rather spend time a bit more constructively.

I will find out that for which I am passionate, that which I enjoy, and work those into my educational studies.

Make my weaknesses, strengths. Okay, so I have a quiet voice. How can I use this to my advantage? Okay, I'm a bit spacey? Hmm...maybe this one doesn't have an advantage. :)

***

I think that is a good place to start, though I would like to solicit ideas from you, my bloggies friends. What are some possible ideas for my credo? What have you done that helps you in the world of academia? So that you enjoy what you are learning, and how you find research topics that you love.

[Side note: kitty is now lounging across the desk, head perched on my forearm.]

Disclaimer: I know not all life is meant to be fun, but I do believe it can be enjoyable. And, I'd say that 90% of my school experience last year really was quiet good; but that last 10% did a good job of souring the rest. Unfortunately.




* The reeaaally cool map was made possible with help from my dad.
** The formatting of the method book survey was only possible with my mum's help.

once again

I know I've posted this before, but I've been talking a lot about it lately, and found the link again.

So, enjoy.



And this one is new.

a bit of inspiration

I'm currently working on a difficult bodice seam for my Jane Austen dress, for a fancy tea party tomorrow.
I doubt I'll finish the entire dress by then, but I'd like to at least finish this durned bodice!

So, I've decided to pull out the big guns. Time to listen to the good ol' BBC version.

And for those who know the whole six hour version too well, please enjoy at least the first minute and a half of this clip.

and an addendum

I left pet peeves blank! Question 32.
There are many, and unfortunately question 32 reminded me to remember them. hmmph.
I share one. You spend hours looking for the perfect fabric, you take it to the cutting table...they roll it out...and there's not enough!

And Question 41. Between the last post and this, I was offered a JOB! Yay!
I will start working for a Nice Clothing Company part time.

I was tagged!

Twice, actually.

On facebook.

But, since I try to keep my secrets off facebook, you, my faithful bloggie readers, have the privilege of the answers. Not that I have many secrets. I just like to pretend.

First tag:

If you'd like to try your hand at it, here are the instructions.
Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, answer these questions. You can't use the band I used. Try not to repeat a song title. It's a lot harder than you think!

Pick Your Artist: Great Big Sea

Are you a male or female: Tishialuck Girls

Describe yourself: Graceful and Charming (aahahaha)

How do you feel: Fell it Turn

Describe where you currently live: Greenspond

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: I'm a Rover

Your favorite form of transportation: Donkey Riding

Your best friend is: Something Beautiful

You and your best friends are: Bad As I Am

What's the weather like: Summer

Favorite time of day: Walk on the Moon

If your life was a TV show, what would it be called: Old Brown's Daughter

What is life to you: Dream to Live

Your fear: Haven't Seen You in a Long Time

What is the best advice you have to give: My Apology

Thought for the Day: Ordinary Day

How I would like to die: End of the World

My soul's present condition: Consequence Free

My motto: When I Am King


Second one:

If you feel so inclined, here are the instructions.
Paste these questions, and answer them.


1. What time did you get up this morning? 6:30am. gag. Even before kitty. Don't worry, it was a complete and utter fluke. I won't let it happen again.

2. How do you like your steak? Medium Well. Cows should moo, not steak.

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? Harry Potter. meh. But those who LOVE HP, liked it.

4. What is your favorite TV show? Hmm... I'm going to stick with Midsomer Murders (same with Dr. Who) but I've seen most of the available ones, so perhaps I will add Castle.

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? I'm not sure about that yet.

6. What did you have for breakfast? Chik Fil A chicken biscuits. Pretty tasty, actually.

7. What is your favorite cuisine? Mmmm....a bean and cheese chimi with green pepper sauce....

8. What foods do you dislike? Sea Food. A better question would be, what do I like. I think the list would be much shorter. Sometimes I fear the cousins were right in saying I was adopted. Though, I have converted to cooking with onions. Wee little cut up diced onions. We're still working on mushrooms. I don't I can accept the fungi family yet.

9. Favorite Place to Eat? I need to find non-chain places in Greensboro. As for chain: Chili's and Outback. Also, Matta's, Los Hermanos, La Fonda. Yum.

10. Favorite dressing? BYU Ranch. At times I've considered mail order. But then I remember I don't really buy vegetables that require ranch. (I've got green beans out the wazoo; I eat vegetables.)

11.What kind of vehicle do you drive? Honda CR-V. I was recently told I'm such a mom for driving that car. Uh, okay. (It was meant as a compliment.)

12. What are your favorite clothes? My mum's old dresses. Clothes I've made. Comfie clothes.

13. Where would you visit if you had the chance? Spain! I'd like to go back to Rome in winter with warmer clothing and see it again, too.

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full? Meh. I'm thirsty, so it really doesn't matter, does it.

15. Where would you want to retire? I think Utah. At least the West. Which translates as Utah of Arizona.

16. Favorite time of day? bedtime? Ya, I think bedtime.

17. Where were you born? Orem, UT. Mum loved me more and transferred to Orem after a bad experience in Provo had with my older brother. I am the favorite daughter, after all.

18. What is your favorite sport to watch? Hahaha. Right....
I guess, once, I watched a complete televised baseball game.

19. Who do you think will not tag you back? n/a

20. Person you expect to tag you back first? n/a

21. Who are you most curious about their responses to this? These are kinda fun to read. And I'm a curious type person.

22. Bird watcher? Member of the Piedmont Bird Club. Have my own pair of binoculars, and my bird book. Haven't been since my 'Appreciation of Nature' class at BYU. But, I have seen a pair of Roseate Spoon Bills! Bee-yoo-tee-ful!

23. Are you a morning person or a night person? I guess night. I am more coherent at night.

24. Do you have any pets? Maxine who is in the has-almost-stopped-pouncing-but-now-insists-on-biting stage but is-so-cute-whilst-sleepy-so-i-guess-i'll-keep-ya lucky.

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share? Mmm.... It's raining? I covered shoe boxes with wrapping paper to match my office decor? Coraline is out on DVD? Uhh....I ordered my new book for class early in an attempt to get ahead so I don't get behind? Oooo, I'm full of exciting news!

26. What did you want to be when you were little? I distinctly remember in 7th grade saying I was going to play the oboe and go to BYU. Curse my younger self. :)

27. What is your best childhood memory? Mud fight with Emily in the alley between her yard and the Crandall's. Auntie E wasn't too thrilled.

28. Are you a cat or dog person? BOTH. Take that profilers.

29. Are you married? Nope.

30. Always wear your seat belt? Yep. Even to the mailbox. Though sometimes I force myself to leave it off for the whole 10-20 yards. (I stop at the mailbox on the way out. It's not that I just drive to the mailbox.)

31. Been in a car accident? Only when leaving church in front of the whole singles ward. stupid. All for returning to pay my tithing. But so I don't get struck down, I didn't have my license but the blessed small-town cop let it slide. And the car registration expired the next day. Soo...it could've been a lot worse.

32. Any pet peeves?

33. fav pizza topping? cheese and pepperoni. See question 8 for a reminder.

34. Favorite Flower? Ranunculus.

35. Favorite ice cream? If we want really specific: Blue Bell Cookies and Cream. Divine.

36. Favorite fast food restaurant? Wendys? OH! I found a Jack in the Box in Charlotte! Hooray!

37. How many times did you fail your drivers test? 0. Though I stunk at parallel parking, and didn't come to a complete stop. And he was picky about me backing out of the angled parking at an angle. There weren't any cars there. I don't see the problemo. How many hours did I have to/get to drive before I could take my driver's test? Forty? Is that right mom? Ten at night. We chose Nebo loop for night driving. During deer on the side of the road season.

38. From whom did you get your last email? Graduate Student Dean. I'm hoping my research class from BYU covers the one here.

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? REI. Cooking stores. Oh man, JoAnns.

40. Do anything spontaneous lately? cut my hair? got a kitty? Do those count?

41. Like your job? *ahem* *cough* *cough*

42. Broccoli? Just make sure you trim off the trunk skin. Right dad?

43. What was your favorite vacation? Trip East. Trip West. Rome. Qatar. Paria. I like most any vacation, actually. Not too picky.

44. Last person you went out to dinner with? A group went to Chilis after one went al templo for the first time.

45. What are you listening to right now? My neighbors upstairs and their doggie running through the apartment.

46. What is your favorite color? ORANGE. It's such an happy color.

47. How many tattoos do you have? Well, there was this one time....at a fair or something.... It'd make a great story, no?

48. How many are you tagging for this quiz? n/a

49. What time did you finish this quiz? 3:37pm. Too bad the quiz doesn't ask when I started. Maybe that actually is a good thing, so you don't know how much time I actually spent on answering questions.

50. Coffee? Well, if it's go to get coffee, and I actually get hot cocoa or cider or a smoothie, yes, but the actual beverage, no. I'll stick with good ol' Dr. Pepper.

ah ha!

I knew there was a reason to liking (being partially obsessed with) the Percy Jackson books!

As I was doing my bedtime ritual of checking the bloggies, there was a post from their author, who is currently traveling Greece or something like that with his family and a contest winner or something. Ya, the competition was for youngsters, so I didn't pay too much attention.

Anyhoo, as the family had an extended layover in London, they visited some of the more touristy sites, which included the London Eye and Big Ben, which his kids were familiar with because of....wait for it....Doctor Who!

Which brings up a moral dilemma that I am currently experiencing.

Christopher Eccleston, the ninth doctor, is in the new GI Joe movie. The dilemma is, well, I don't really like meat-head-hulking-male-lead-led-smash-em action-type-movies. But, but.... Can I justify supporting monetarily a movie I don't like to see an actor I do? And horror of horrors, what if I find I actually do like the movie?

What is a girl to do? Help me, Obi Wan Kenobi, You're my only Hope.

Perhaps she should go to bed and quit worrying.

Does staying up till 6:26am count as early to rise?

'night.

book: the actor and the housewife

The Actor and the Housewife: A Novel by Shannon Hale



I'm fresh from reading this book. It was literally delivered this afternoon. The delivery guy's knock startled me, but I excitedly opened the door to retrieve the box, knowing what it contained.I read for about an hour and a half, went to Institute, had someone over and forced the to watch Ned Devine, and was about to head to bed at the somewhat decent hour of 1am. I gave in to the reading gods, saying it had been a while since I'd been up really late. I think 5:38am counts.Enough about the circumstances.Know that I am biased. I already have decided to like Shannon Hale's books owing to past experiences with her others.Compared to Austenland, I think the characters were more developed, but you also have a longer timeline. I also felt though the story line was completely crazy, it was also happily believable. I don't want to create spoilers; I'll leave you with a few thoughts.The family life of Becky Jack was believable to me. All emotions were experienced. I didn't laugh out loud, but I rarely do that. But there was a bit of smiling. I'm not completely sure how I fell about the ending, but in some respects I am happy. I did feel that those More-mohns were portrayed realistically, from the liberally types, to the wait-till-the-marriage-to-kiss-types without mockery. But there are some blessed polite-jibes at a few cultural oddities.Not life-changing, but has caused me at least to think.And lastly, I really enjoyed Hale's dialogue throughout.Okay, time for bed.

View all my reviews >>

for the twilighters in my life

Those who are hardcore twilighters have probably already seen these.

For those who aren't, these two clips of Jacob and Bella, and Bella and Edward, were released during the Comic-Con this past week. The clips themselves are ohh-kay, but what's much more exciting is the comments from the adoring/creepily stalkerish fans.

I couldn't watch much more before I wanted to gag.

How much could you watch?

Ooo, just saw you can embed. Now you don't even have to click on the link.








So sorry, one last thing. This showed up in the side bar for ads. Perhaps vanessa could create a poll? The hottest book-to-movie-adaptation guy. I can't believe I just said hottest.

ta - daa!

Its only been a week or two in the making, but I've finally finished kitties new scratching post. I think she likes it! Through the process I've learned:

1) You should wear heels to the hardware store. You get helped faster.

2) Kitty likes playing with screws. Batting them around is a speciality.

3) Kitty should be sequestered to a separate room whilst wrapping the rope around the post.

I'm sure I've learned more, but that's all I can think of for now.

I shall leave you now with a picture. Okay, two.







Now I can start cleaning up the front room.

sign seen

I don't have a picture of this, so you'll just have to imagine.

I was walking across campus, and noticed the company name of some port-a-potties present during construction:


Comer
Sanitary Services


That is just sooooo wrong. (At least it was when I was walking by this morning.)

its been great to know you, mr. man in the moon

Forty years ago, we got to meet the man in the moon.

My mom remembers being in a hotel room in [some southern state]. I think it was Mississippi. (Sorry mom.) They were on a tour of the East, and watched the landing on TV.

I also remember stories of how grandpa papa would bring home different metals for my mum and aunties to test the strength of them. Bending the metal back and forth, seeing how long the metal would hold up. This was important, because it was going to be used as an antenna.* Yay for Arizona, Motorola and grandpas (You too, Lizzy!) who worked there, helping to make such an important event possible.

Here's a very brief relation of a former employee.
Motorola and the moon


From others who worked on the shuttle,



And for those who may still believe it was a hoax, the Myth-Busters themselves take popular Moon Landing Hoaxes to task.




* If any of the facts are wrong, it's my fault. My mother has told me the stories a number of times, but some things just do not stay put in my head.

somber

I ditched out on Family Home Evening group tonight to finish a book. Its been one of those days: waking up with a headache, etc. that just won't go away!*

After I finished the book, I came out to check email and the usual sifting through various news sites.

First, something from here in Greensboro.

Read this one first.

Now this.

Another, about the women left behind illegal immigration. The article is not as informative as I would have liked, but I know many friends have personal connections to the topic.


Lastly, as I was surfing the web - I can't even remember how I stumbled on the video, but it features a professor from where I used to work.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

I am grateful to these people for moving on even in life, even while facing death head on.

Those of you who bear through my posts know that I am not the most articulate when writing, but I shall try anyway. I was reminded of thoughts I had yesterday evening.

Last night, while admiring my newly organized bookcase (there are three more to go, I have to enjoy something!) I like to look over the books I've read and enjoyed. One is Lord of the Rings - not too surprising, I know. I remembered a favorite passage of mine:** Well, I can't find it in the book, so I had to resort to the internet. It's been too long since I've read them to pick out quotes I guess.

Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again. (Gandalf)
I wish it need not have happened in my time (Frodo)
So do I… and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us. (Gandalf)

Or if you prefer,

Okay, I'm focusing again.

I read the whole books after being 'forced' to read Fellowship for my freshman college English class. Poor Meeechele - I was horribly obsessed!

The above quote really resonated with me.

Later, while reading the Book of Mormon during required class reading time, I remember reading this passage:

Behold, now it came to pass in the sixty and ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of the Nephites, that Nephi, the son of Helaman, returned to the land of Zarahemla from the land northward.
For he had been forth among the people who were in the land northward, and did preach the word of God unto them, and did prophesy many things unto them;
And they did reject all his words....
Now this great iniquity had come upon the Nephites, in the space of anot many years; and when Nephi saw it, his heart was swollen with sorrow within his breast; and he did exclaim in the agony of his soul:
Oh, that I could have had my days in the days when my father Nephi first came out of the land of Jerusalem, that I could have ajoyed with him in the promised land; then were his people easy to be entreated, bfirm to keep the commandments of God, and slow to be led to do iniquity; and they were quick to hearken unto the words of the Lord—
Yea, if my days could have been in those days, then would my soul have had joy in the righteousness of my brethren.
But behold, I am consigned that these are my days, and that my soul shall be filled with asorrow because of this the wickedness of my brethren. (Helaman 7:1-3, 6-9) [The rest of the story is pretty amazing!]

I was excited, because it confirmed to me that I had recognized truth, and both gave examples of how to continue on, even when circumstances are less than desirable (though I think Nephi gave perhaps a bit better example.)

Earlier in the post, I gave two modern day examples of people going forward, even when circumstances are less than ideal. I know personally of families who do their best every day in spite of tragic circumstances.

So when job hunting fails, trying to train cats hurts (sigh), seeing rats is scary (eek!) and many more things that aren't publicly shared, those burdens of the heart great or small, we can remember that all that we can ever do is do our best; usually that best turns out to be pretty extra-ordinary. (I hope.)




*And no, that headache is not black and furry. :) Only one pounce today while making lunch.

** I'm beginning to think it's not just me being inarticulate, but have a hard time staying on task. While looking for the quote itself, I began finding bunches of neat things about the movie, posted by people who have way too much time on their hands. Such as this.

squirrel!

Okay, so it's the same fifteen seconds looping over and over again. But tis a squirrel with his head stuck in a yogurt cup!

Squirrels are fascinating animals. My experience with them was mainly in the mountains. Either at the cabins in Strawberry were they attempt (usually successfully) to raid the bird feeders, or the Grand Canyon and the lovely tuft-eared Kaibab Squirrels on the beautiful North Rim.

Or the random squirrel in Massachusetts that liked Boston Baked Beans.




When I lived in Florida, I was shocked to find squirrels. Specifically, squirrels in pine trees.

It was my goal to get a picture of a squirrel in a pine tree before I left.

Oh bother, I think I've put my picture on my external drive. Too bad for you, you'll have to wait and see the AMAZING Squirrel picture.

mr darcy? in nc?

Say it ain't so?

A movie is being filmed in Durham, NC with our favorite second-language learning elf, and the best Mr. Darcy ever. Hmm... Road Trip?

just kidding.





sort of.





I just don't want to be the creepy stalker lady.

flowers: kate's wedding!

I had the opportunity to play florist for two weddings last month - they fell on the same day so I could only attend one.

I now have pictures from Kate's wedding, courtesy of R C Photography. I share some of their pictures below, where flowers are featured.







Here you can see the boutonnière.*



You can see the bouquet against the dress in this image.



Okay, these last two really don't feature flowers, but I think they're great shots.








* I so cheated when I spelled this. Thank cut and paste for the use of the accent and everything. I think I shall start using button-hole, instead of bout...bouttonn...arrgh. No wonder they are often termed 'bouts.'

i'm not one for capital punishment

But I am glad that the recent serial/spree killings in South Carolina have come to an end. Especially as I looked up the distance between the killings and my place of residence. A little too close.

schweet!

Check this out!

This is the blog of the photographers for Kate and Justin's wedding. I was asked (and happily complied) to do flowers for her wedding.

What you're supposed to be looking at is their heading - the flowers behind their logo? Yup, I did those.

The flowers that comprised her bouquet were blue (I know, it looks purple, but it really is blue) and yellow statice, with some stems of yellow stock.

I love statice. I've had a bouquet that my great-grandmother picked in my room for many years now. I think it's a lovely little flower. I used various colors for Michele's wedding the same day.

jealous much?

poor liddle kittymeowmeow.

She has such a rough life.

Currently she is sitting in between me and the laptop. Earlier she was walking across the keyboard to show her dominance. There was even an attempt to chew the corner of the laptop.

updates and the like

Wow, how about those celebrity deaths?

Farrah, Michael...and Billie Mays. He lived in Tampa, did you know that? I like Tampa.


Firstly. So the carpet is now almost dry. There's just one little corner in the big bedroom. That means kitty and won't be having sleep-over parties much longer. I may even sleep on the couch tonight. There's nothing better than a little furry thing pouncing on you in the middle of the night. nope. well, maybe a small sticky child.

The blowers will continue in the kitchen and bathroom for at least two more days. And then there's the carpet cleaning to happen. BUT, at least there's progress.


Secondly. Well, the stove is unplugged. My first reaction was, well shoot, I'll have to eat out more, but I've been trying to eat in more, and learn well, practice cooking, etc. etc. So, I remembered my wee crockpot, and decided to experiment.

An aside: I was typing in the word reserved to send in a text message, and perestroika came up. wow.

Okay, so I threw in a frozen chicken breast, some raspberry dressing, blackberry freezer jam I made earlier, a dollop of horseradish the parents must have bought, and some onion powder. Let sit on high for 4 hours or so, and voila, tasty yumminess. I put it on low, and put some rice in the rice cooker, put some carrots on the plate, and buttered bread, and it was a nice meal.

Thirdly. I changed phone services, because I was tired of spending money on something I don't use! Even with breaking my contract early, I'm still saving money every month.

I switched from that one with that one guy and glasses, to a prepay service. I had nothing against my previous carrier, it just didn't have a plan for those types of people who really don't talk on the phone all that much.

Fourthly. I finally saw Star Trek, and UP!

I quite enjoyed them both. I must say, I really enjoy matinee showings!

Fifthly. And now for those who have made it down to the very bottom: I reserved my right to veto the votes. I would probably have voted for Persephone myself - and I still really like the name. It's a beautiful name in theory, but I just didn't see myself using it on a daily basis for x years. Plus, dad didn't like it much. I think he was just mad his suggestion didn't get any votes. :)

So, I began trying to find a common denominator in successful past pet names. (Here they are from the most recent living)


Hatti
Magoo... or Tanker (I guess)

They were always puppies. They were good doggies. Hatti was the best one of the two - they were brother and sister muttlets. It will be a while before I can get another pup pup...taking the both of them on their last walk...not fun.

Albert/o and Alberto Segundo

A beautiful blue beta who became Alberto after I received my mission call to speak Spanish.
My dad and Matthew swear that Albert died while I was on my mission, and replaced him with another Beta fish before I got home.

Scooter Pie the III (We just called him Scooter

We gave this little runlet to Grandma Smith when we moved to Utah. He was a sweet puppy till he was influenced by the two tyrants we already had. (Hatti and Magoo) He died of diabetes.

Snowball kitty (aka Bob after she lost her tail)

She also stayed in Arizona with Grandma and Papa. White cat - snow - didn't think that was a good mix. She was an alley cat that was given to us by a neighbor who heard of Felix's death.

Willy

A lhasa apso that was mistreated, who we took in at Aunt Mellers request. He wasn't nice to very many people outside our family, but he was a good dog. His claim to fame is biting the principal that no one liked at the nearby elementary school. He became a sort of hero to parents everywhere.

Matthew also put his print shop skills to use when Willy had to go on his long walk...he put up 'Mom is a dog killer' signs, complete with skull and cross bones.

Felix

A black kitty who let a little girl dress him up and carry him around the house in purses. I remember walking home from elementary school through our orchard, and there was this circle of kids, staring down...it was poor little Felix, who stomach had been ripped open. Needless to say, he was d - e - d dead. :( That was a sad day.

Wow, that was a bit morbid.

Ahem.

So I also noticed that most of the names were two syllables long, and lent themselves well to nicknames.

Without further ado, kitty's name is Maxine.

So, there you have it folks.

on the bright side...

I did just get cheap-o bookcases for my books, so none of them were on the floor.

Nor any of my fabric.

The only casualties were some empty boxes I was keeping for storage, and possibly my sewing machine and printer. They were on the wet carpet.

But, I have renter's insurance just in case! Yay!

See, there IS a bright side to this. I just hope I remember that four days later when my ears are ringing because of the blowers and kittymeowmeow is going crazy because of the noise. :)

wooo-eee!

A couple of things: one, Persephone won in the poll. It's not for sure yet, but I liked the name too. I'll let you know soon.
There are days, though, when I think Hades would be more appropriate.

Story: I was ignoring the little darling, trying to clean a few things up, so she climbed up on the back of a chair, and then leaped at me, while standing, catching onto my stomach with her claws. Owie.

But, thankfully, those events are few and far between.

I doubt I'd use this name, but I thought Bella may work, too. You know, vampires, bloodsuckers, black cat....



Okay. Next story, and why I haven't officially decided yet on her name.

Today, about 1:30ish, I went into my room to read a book, and take a nap. (You try lounging on the couch with a kitten who wants to play!)

I finally came out around 5:30 (I guess I was more tired than I thought....) and almost immediately stepped into soggy carpet.

I swear I'm cursed!

It turns out, the neighbor's wash machine water intake thing burst, and since they have tile floors, and rugs, it all leaked (okay, their apartment was a LOT worse than mine) a lot leaked over to my apartment, too.

I'll post pictures later. I'm not quite sure where my camera picture uploader thing is, and everything is a mess.

Deep breath.

Breathing.

AAARRRGGHHH!

Thankfully, my neighbor was outside; I forget why I was out there, but I asked him if he was having problems. It turns out he works for a water restoration place. My landlord came right over. All is being taken care of.

Side note: my neighbor was surprised how calm I was. I just am glad it's clean water.

Things are almost all soaked up - it's just the matter of the how much moisture leaked up the drywall.

And I'll get the blower things in my apartment for a number of days. Poor kittymeowmeow. She's currently shut up in my room because the front door is open to let the water soaker upper's hose dump the water in the lawn.

So what did you do today?

hmmm...

I don't know what to say.

there's a furry animal in my lap

And she's purring. I hope that's a good sign.

She was so cruelly robbed from her mother and one remaining sister earlier this afternoon, but she has since stopped crying, and only occasionally will hide behind the bookcase.

I have some not so good pictures, one of which follows.



Now, for the naming.

Her previous name is Hephzibah. I like the name, and as much as I like good strong biblical names, I don't want the wee one getting ideas of motherhood - even if Manasseh was a pretty important person. It could easily remain a middle name (and it's okay if certain persons want to continue to call her that. :) )

I was talking to my father about some names, and he looked through "The Lightning Thief" and suggested Annabeth. I think it's currently my top pick, though there are still a few names that I like, some from the book (or Greek mythology) and some, well, just names I liked.

I like Persephone because of the underworld reference. My dad suggested Hades, but, I don't think SHE would like the name. I could be wrong.

Ahh, she's asleep in my lap now.

Let's hope I still think she's cute when she (insert animal drama here.)

Okay, back to names.

Bianca Hmm. That means white, or fair. That, she is not.

Phoebe, and Daphne.

Well, there you have it.

Annabeth
Persephone
Hades
Bianca
Phoebe
Daphne

Cast your votes off to the side!*

And, well, as with most pets, she'll end up getting a nickname, anyway.

Oliver became birdie, Snowball became Bob. Maybe this one will be kitty meow meow.


*As the one who gets to use this name on a daily basis, I reserve the right to overrule any votes. I never said this was a democracy. :)

i went to the oquirrh mountain open house

As we were leaving the temple, one of the last places we went through was the women's dressing rooms, and the bride's dressing rooms.

My grandpa looked at me and said,

"Take a good look [referring to the bride's rooms] because it will be the last time you see them."

hmmph.

Needless to say, I stuck my tongue out at him. (Real mature of me, I know.)

I think he was a bit put out and needed to tease someone, because as we were earlier about to descend three flights of stairs, the host lady asked if he would prefer to take the elevator.

How was she supposed to know he was about to make a 40 mile hike earlier this month? He only refrained because of flash flood danger.

Poor grandpa. He's only 76 after all.


Don't worry, though - I hold no hard feelings, for I know he was teasing.

At my cousin's/his grand-daughter's wedding, he asked where the strippers were.

Why?

Frau and I were playing "Air on a G String."

Oh, and the temple was quite lovely. I really liked the colors; the Celestial room was very very nice. The ceiling was amazingly high!

And from the parking lot, I could see the Draper Temple, and the Jordan River Temple as well. It was dark when we were leaving, so the inversion was invisible.

Though I am often light-hearted, and sometimes silly, I am grateful for temples, and their place in the Plan of Salvation. Without the knowledge that I have, well, let's just say sometimes really crappy things happen: I'm grateful for a different perspective, that, though not making such things easy, there is Someone in charge, making them bearable.

For

...when Amulek saw the pains of the women and children who were consuming in the fire, he also was pained; and he said unto Alma: How can we witness this awful scene? Therefore let us stretch forth our hands, and exercise the power of God which is in us, and save them from the flames.
But Alma said unto him: The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they [the bad-guys] may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day.
Now Amulek said unto Alma: Behold, perhaps they will burn us also.
And Alma said: Be it according to the will of the Lord. But, behold, our work is not finished; therefore they burn us not.
Now it came to pass that when the bodies of those who had been cast into the fire were consumed...the chief judge of the land came and stood before Alma and Amulek, as they were bound; and he smote them with his hand upon their cheeks, and said unto them: After what ye have seen, will ye preach again unto this people, that they shall be cast into a blake of fire and brimstone? Behold, ye see that ye had not power to save those who had been cast into the fire; neither has God saved them because they were of thy faith. And the judge smote them again upon their cheeks, and asked: What say ye for yourselves? (Alma 14:10-15)

I say that the Lord knows the beginning from the end, and really, there is no end. There is no end.