Unplanned Bessings

The past 6-8 weeks I have been the subject of an intensive background check for a potential job. They have really been thorough and patient. I wasn't too stressed with them checking into my life, I really don't have anything to hide, but I was interested to know what they would learn and who they would call.

What I hadn't counted on was how it would rekindle wonderful friendships, warm my heart and make me incredibly grateful for all my friends. The investigator has called individuals I haven't seen years, and through those conversations with the investigator, I have then had the great opportunity of talking with my missed friends and co-workers.

I've loved hearing some of the responses of my friends, and I am so grateful to have such wonderfully silly people, loving and encouraging me. Jesse, you're weird, Annie, Ella, Liz and others... you rock my world!

Another incredible part was the fact that the investigator was a latter-day saint! It really made things much more personal and helpful; I could talk about my mission, conversion, and college so much more than I thought I could because she understands Mormon code, and those major parts of our lives!

It was kind of odd and awesome to feel the spirit when I was telling my life story to a background investigator! =)

My August Adventures

August was kind of a crazy month, but overall I enjoyed it.

Kari's Birthday: Kari turned 26 on August 5th, and the night before we went to dinner and a movie. She chose Step up 4, or Step up Revolution. Now the movie was complete crap when it came to acting, but the dancing was incredible! Another incredible part of the movie was the drunken dancing ladies behind us. They really made it a participatory event. Their dancing wasn't so good, but it was entertaining!

Shingles: The big negative of the month. The day before the Statewide YSA Conference that I had signed up for and was looking forward to, I came down with a case of the shingles right along my Inferior Alveolar Nerve. It was a bit ouchy. Every time I talked or swallowed I would get a jolt of pain. And I was exhausted all the time, no matter how much I rested. However, I was really lucky that I got over it in about a week. It can be a beast to get rid of.

Olympics: I was kind of Olympic obsessed! From start to finish I had to watch EVERYTHING. Or as much as NBC would show when I was home from work. I loved it and I couldn't get enough. I just wish they were now airing the Paralympics with as much enthusiasm.

Hell on Wheels: This show is pretty awesome; and also pretty melodramatic. Especially the new season. But holy poop I love it! The characters are awesome, but I can't help but wonder if all of them are just going to turn bad. Who knows. But I'm enjoying the ride!

Shark Week: The moment the Olympics ended Shark Week started. Such perfect timing! I was still recovering from shingles so I would come home from work and collapse on my bed and watch that nights adventures on Shark Week. Awesome! But now I'm even more freaked out about going in the ocean, even though logically I know that sharks aren't out to get me the moment I stick my foot in their water.

So You Think You Can Dance: This season is amazing and I loved the Mia Michels episode. I think Cole and Lindsay did a better job than the originals. I just loved it. They have had some wonderful numbers, my only issue is the number of times we've had to pause for a few weeks for different events. The season has been too stop and go. But I love the dancing. One of these years I will go and see the live show.

Volunteering at the Temple: I am now a volunteer at the Oakland Temple on Saturday mornings, and I think it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. It really has been such a blessing in my life. It really has helped me focus on what is most important, and I learn more and more about the gospel each time I go. I love going to the Lord's house and I love helping others. There have already been so many moments of inspired teaching and moments where I know the Lord knows me individually. It really is incredible, and I am unsure why I didn't do it any sooner.

Lie Detector Test: Two weeks ago I had to take a lie detector test for a job I am applying for. It really wasn't that scary or uncomfortable but being strapped to a chair was odd. And not being able to move while I talked or answered questions was really hard. I learned that I am an animated speaker and wanted to express myself by moving my hands and I couldn't. Weird. But since I've lived a pretty dull life it wasn't scary. But now I can take that off the bucket list! Now they said they wouldn't tell me whether I passed or failed, but I'm on to the next level of the process, and if I completely pass all of the background checks then I get to have a psych evaluation. Eek! Now that one I'm a bit more nervous about.

Dueling Pianos: This past Friday to celebrate a friend of mines birthday a group of us went to "That Bar" in Danville. We chose that specific location because they have dueling pianos from 8 to midnight. It was so awesome! Although I have to say the drunks seem to enjoy it more than we did and by around 10 we decided it was best to go. Well I think our server was also pleased for us to go because no matter how often she asked if we wanted a drink we just wouldn't order alcohol. She did get on our good side by giving us free shirts. Now keep in mind I kept mine because it was soft. (I am obsessed with shirts that are soft.) I am sure I have no use for a Bacardi t-shirt. Sorry I am off topic. Some of my favorite songs they performed were: Baby Got Back, California Girls, and a smattering of other pop culture songs form the last 30 years.

It was a great night and a great ending to a pretty fun month! Can't wait to see how September goes!