Jagger Land

Current Crazy Idea

2012-02-16T22:26:00.005-07:00

So... I was slightly inspired by my reading choices this year, and by the movie adaptation of the book "The Jane Austen Book Club" and decided that I wanted to start a book club. So I did... you can get to it here.

Now the books I have read so far this year have been talked about in earlier posts, namely Sh*t My Dad Says, and My Life In France. Well the next book was the Tao of Pooh, which really was insightful and delightful, and I would have loved to have someone to discuss it with. The same goes for my current read Gods Behaving Badly. Its a fictional work about the Greek gods, it helps me to learn who they are, and their characteristics. It is set in London, and it is funny! I know they are doing a film adaptation, but I'm almost positive it will be R, so I won't be seeing it. D word.

But yeah for good books, and yea for trying new things.

So if you are interested in discussing books with me you can sign up with the blog!

One ForThe Money; Book vs. Film

2012-01-29T20:11:00.003-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to see the film version of "One For The Money". Now I had a lot of hope for the adaptation, wanting it to be as good as the books I love.

Sadly it didn't really get near the books. I don't understand why screenwriters ruin an already wonderful script in the way of the ORIGINAL SOURCE MATERIAL. When in doubt use the book.

That being said, I enjoyed Katherine Heigl playing Stephanie Plum,Jason O'Mara playing Joe Morelli, and Sherrie Shepherd playing Lula. I was disappointed in Debbie Reynolds as Grandma Mazur. Daniel Sunjata as Ranger grew on me. But the script made it really hard to take anything seriously.

That being said I will probably go and see the movie again. I'm not sure I can help it. I love the books, and I am hoping they do a sequel. I just want a bigger budget and a different screenwriter who has actually read the books.

*I'm such a nerd that I've read the books once a year. (And yes there are 18 books to date.)

Life a la Julia Child

2012-01-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished "My Life In France" by Julia Child, and I have to say that I fell in love with her and her enchanted life. And as I read it I realized that I knew people just as enchanting and full of life. And it made me think of my year in England.

Jesse and Kathleen have the same type of love and relationship that is described by Mrs. Child. Jesse supports Kathleen in all she does, and vice versa. Interestingly enough, Kathleen and Jesse have the same wedding date as the Child's, only 60 years later! And the similarities don't stop there. The more I read the more I appreciated the Thorsons in my life, and all that they are.

Then I realized that the relationship between Julia Child and Simone Beck is also very similar to the friendship of Kathleen and Annie. They are both fantastic cooks, and love to create things together. They have a wonderful relationship and build each other up.

I was the taste tester for their creations and it was a job I took very seriously! I loved it! But beyond food they truly are soul sisters, and I can't wait to see what they get into in the next 40 years. (I wonder if it will be their B&B.)

This book was just what I needed at this point in my life. I have been a little down and feeling a lonely, but this book reminded me of a dream year of my life, and the people that mean the world to me.

Julia Child was a go getter and a dreamer. She knew what she wanted and she worked for it; and inspired many along the way! Now I have to get over my fear of cooking and attempt some of her recipes.

* "Learn how to cook - try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!" (Applying this to all aspects of my life.)

* "The pleasures of the table, and of life, are infinite - toujours bon appetit!"

The Count of 2011

2012-01-11T13:37:00.004-07:00

My love of books and most media was renewed this year. I read 54 books, saw 16 plays and 68 movies, and ran 70 miles. (I was hoping for way more miles, but I just got too lazy.)

Some of the books that really got me thinking, or that were just plain awesome were:
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows, Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult, The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins, How I Paid For College: A Novel Of Sex, Theft, Friendship & Musical Theater and Attack Of The Theater People by Marc Acito.

The movies I loved the most fell into a few categories: 1. BBC stuff: Cranford, Jane Eyre (2004), Under The Greenwood Tree, and North & South. 2. Documentaries: Stephen Fry In America, Waiting On Superman, Pixar, and American The Story Of Us. 3. New Releases: Sherlock Holmes 2, True Grit, The Muppet Movie, Captain America, and Fast Five. 3. TV Series: Outnumbered, Breakout Kings, and Spooks.

Okay, so after reviewing this... I realise I love movies, TV, books, and plays too much! Gulp!

Book #1 Of 2012

2012-01-09T22:24:00.001-07:00

A few years ago I bought my dad the book "Sh*t My Dad Says" for fathers day. That spring he took it with him to Chicago when he went to see family. Once there it got read by him and my grandpa. And as he was leaving my Uncle wanted to read it. The book has remained in Chicago ever since.

Now I spent the new years in Chicago and found the book. I read it in about a day, and I have to say IT IS AWESOME! (I would prefer to say amazing, but apparently the American public has said that word too much, and some feel it should be stricken from the dictionary.)

Here are some of my favorite quotes: (Warning...most of these quotes will have swearing in them!)

ON ACCIDENTS: "I don't give a shit how it happened, the window is broken... Wait, why is there syrup everywhere? Okay, you know what? Now I give a shit how it happened. Let's hear it!"

ON SPORTSMANSHIP: "You pitched a great game, you really did. I'm proud of you. Unfortunately, your team is shitty... No, you can't go getting mad at people because they're shitty. Life will get mad at them, don't worry."

ON HIS FIRST SCHOOL DANCE: " Are you wearing perfume?... Son there ain't any cologne in this house, only your mother's perfume. I know that scent, and let me tell you, it's disturbing to smell your wife on your thirteen-year-old son."

ON RECEIVING STRAIGHT A'S ON HIS REPORT CARD: "Hot Damn! You're a smart kid - I don't care what people say about you!... I'm kidding, nobody says you're not smart. They say other stuff, but not that."

ON TRYING OUT FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMAN FOOTBALL TEAM: "I ain't letting you try out, you're too skinny... No, I hate to break it to you, but you can't do whatever you want, and you most certainly are not a man."

There are way more quotes to share, but those are just a few of my favorites... and the ones with the least amount of swear words. =)

PS I know this book came out years ago, but I still felt the need to share its awesomeness.

Rock Climbing

2012-01-04T10:02:00.003-07:00

Yesterday I was lucky enough to spend the day with my cousin Patrick and his daughter Abby. Now we let Abby decide what we did, and she wanted to try rock climbing. I thought it sounded like a fun adventure, so I agreed to tag along.

Now Pat and Abby were naturals, and really seemed to get the hang of it really well. There were 21 different spots that we could climb, and they really climbed a good number of them. And again... they made it look easy.

Now we were rock climbing for over 3 hours, and I was in no shape to go the whole time. I expected my arms to be sore, but I never really thought much about my hands and forearms. But holy crap they just gave out after about 2 hours. That is when I decided to become the photographer of the group.

I kinda wish I was like this little girl below... she was so light that when she let go of the wall she started to float up... until her mom could pull her back to the ground. Now that is my kind of climbing.

All joking aside I really enjoyed myself, and am going to look for a climbing place in the Bay Area. It was a great work out, and a lot of fun to do with friends. I just wish I wasn't such a wuss...and wasn't so sore today. I can't grip anything... and can't lift either. Holy poop I'm tired!

Trip To Mormontown

2012-01-02T20:09:00.004-07:00

My Aunt Colleen seems to be the Nauvoo tour guide for her visiting nieces. The best part is that Colleen isn't a Mormon. She very nicely drove me the 250 miles from Chicago to Nauvoo on New Years Eve day. She was even the one to notice the temple first. And I just need to continually thank her.

It is so wonderful to actually stand in the town that once was a booming Mormon settlement. I was in awe as we drove into the town, and even before we saw any of the "sights."

Walking around the Smith family cemetery was a bittersweet experience. I love that family so dearly, and feel so much for them. They have sacrificed and given so much for the faith that I so easily can live. It is because of their faith and endurance that I can enjoy the fruits of their efforts.

And the next morning we traveled the short distance to Carthage jail. I wasn't too sure how I would react on seeing the location of the Prophet Joseph and his brother Hyrum's deaths. Despite the violence that took place there, the jail held a peace and comfort that I wasn't expecting.

Looking back on our short trip through a bit of church history, I can't think of a better way to end and start a year, than to renew and re-inspire my faith and testimony. I cannot think of a better way to start New Years goals, and rekindle relationships with family members. I am grateful for an understanding family, and a loving aunt who knew how important this trip would be to me, and who had the perfect balance of humor and faith to be the perfect partner in crime. Love you Aunt Colleen!

(Now I'll need to come back when the temple is open!)

Thank You!

2011-11-11T21:27:00.003-07:00

Today is a really special day, and not just because it is 11-11-11 (although that is awesome) but it is a really important day to remember those who have served and protected our country.

This whole year I have been thinking more and more about our men and women out serving our country. I've been watching more documentaries about the various wars we have fought in since the Declaration of Independence, and I am just so proud to be an American.

I remember right out of high school I was considering joining one of the branches of the military, because I wanted to be a medic, or train to be a nurse with our government, but my Dad quickly helped me realize that with my ankles (or lack there of) the military probably wouldn't take me.

That being said I am so proud of all those who voluntarily put their lives at risk for the sake of others. You are incredible examples of true heroes and you are in my thoughts and prayers regularly. Words cannot express what your sacrifices and efforts have done to bless the lives of countless of individuals throughout the world. Thank you!

This past June I had the honor of going to the American Cemetery in France near Utah and Omaha beaches. (American landing sites for D-day) Being there was like nothing else I have ever done in my life. The sense of awe, pride, sorrow, love, honor, and countless other emotions just cannot be described. It truly felt like I was on holy ground. Being in a cemetery of thousands of Americans who gave their lives in the defense of the defenseless was so very humbling.

In a time of selfishness, to walk on to a site of selflessness was just what I needed. Thank you again to all those who have served, or are serving our country. Your service is needed, wanted, accepted, and embraced!

I am so proud to be an American, and pray that I can be the type of American that our veterans are.

Positive Changes

2011-11-03T22:23:00.002-06:00

I joined a gym about 6 weeks ago, and I have been disappointed in the numbers I checked every Tuesday, namely... my weight. In those 6 weeks I have only lost about 5 pounds. But tonight my trainer checked my measurements to see any progress, and good heavens there was some positive progress. I have lost 10 inches!

*3 inches lost from my shoulders
*4 inches lost from my waist
*2 inches lost from my hips
*1 inch lost from my thighs

My hard work is doing something good. I just need to keep at it! Phew!

Just thought I'd share the good news... exercise is awesome... it's the healthy eating I really need to work on.

Out For Blood

2011-10-22T17:28:00.002-06:00

This morning I had the opportunity to participate in a 5K in Oakland. The Red Cross had a 5K at Lake Merritt called "Out For Blood."

(Dad got this shot right as I crossed the finish line!)

This was my first 5K in a year and a half. My only goal was to do it in under 40 minutes. I did it in 39:55; not a fast time, but I met my goal. Next time I want to do it in under 38 minutes.

I'm on the lookout for the next 5K!

Amazing!

2011-10-21T13:36:00.001-06:00

Some things are so bad they are truly amazing.

Look at the tagline to this movie!

I laughed so hard I cried!

Music That Makes Me Smile

2011-10-19T22:06:00.004-06:00

I am lucky enough to have a job that allows me to listen to music while I work. Some songs just really hit me sometimes. This song was perfect to help me smile, even if situations aren't what I would like them to be.

Lyrics to 22 :
"When she was 22 the future looked bright
But she's nearly 30 now
and she's out every night

I see that look in her face
she's got that look in her eye
She's thinking how did I get here
and wondering why

It's sad but it's true how society says
Her life is already over
There's nothing to do
and there's nothing to say

Til the man of her dreams comes along
picks her up and puts her over his shoulder
It seems so unlikely in this day and age

She's got an alright job
but it's not a career
Wherever she thinks about it,
it brings her to tears

Cause all she wants is a boyfriend
She gets one-night stands
She's thinking how did I get here
I'm doing all that I can

It's sad but it's true how society says
Her life is already over
There's nothing to do
and there's nothing to say

Til the man of her dreams comes along
picks her up and puts her over his shoulder
It seems so unlikely in this day and age"

Thank goodness for funny creative people!

Gotta love sassy sarcastic lyrics. I do wonder why I feel like I should EVERYTHING in order. I'm only 27 (28 in 2 weeks), and at times I do feel like society tells me I'm over the hill. And personally I don't think I need a significant other to have a meaningful life. I can be by myself and not be lonely. I have wonderful friends and family, and can be successful as me without a partner, not to say I would drop a guy when he comes along. =)

I've enjoyed/ am enjoying the process of growing up (and at this point I finally feel like I'm kind of an adult!) I haven't learned/ or experienced everything yet, but I'm enjoying the ride.

I think everyone enjoys a bit of time in Neverneverland. (And we don't see any married people in Neverneverland do we? Wendy and Peter were only pretending!I've yet to see a legal marriage certificate there.)

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2011

2011-10-10T00:56:00.001-06:00

I found this older blog post sitting in the draft form and decided to share it. It was first written back in early to middle part of August.

This year I was lucky enough to go to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and see some amazing performances! I want to use some of them in my dissertation, but I am having a hard time figuring out what I want to say, so I thought that maybe blogging about them might help.

TUESDAY

Tuesday morning Stacey and I sort of surprised our friend Cherie by dropping in to see her production of What the Moon Saw. I was a little partial to the production I saw at BYU-Idaho back in the day, but I think Cherie made some wonderful choices with her production. My favorite was the use of projectors, and projections for the kids to follow. It made it much more fun and sort of interactive. But mostly we were there to be with Cherie.

That evening I went to a free Stand-up comedy night at a pub, and that sentence right there should tell you how "great" it was. (Those were sarcastic air quotes.) It was horrendous and I almost demanded to be paid to be there. The funniest thing there was the drunk lady in the audience who laughed like Kjersti, and mostly that just made me miss Kjersti.

WEDNESDAY

I started my theatre adventure by going to "You Once Said Yes" which was a one to one performance. I was a bit nervous, but really excited. Words really can't even describe it, it was incredible, and really helped me fall in love with theatre again. It was everything I loved about theatre, and it was presented in a new way that made me fall in love all over again. This had wonderful reviews.

"You Once Said Yes, an interactive one-on-one piece from Look Left Look Right that takes the city of Edinburgh itself as its backdrop. I set out alone from the Underbelly only to be accosted by an Icelandic backpacker looking for her hostel. Could I help? In Spanish?

Saying " yes" - a simple answer with profound consequences - sent me tumbling down a rabbit hole of wonder and surprise, as I bounced from encounter to encounter with a host of characters and places, not all of them as well-intentioned as the tranquil few minutes with a young mother of a Down's syndrome child in the calm of St Giles's Cathedral. Every day, this lovely show reminds us, is a series of infinite possibilities, to which we just have to remain open." By Fiona Mountford (The Evening Standard, London) 15 August 2011

Then after grabbing something to eat, Stacey and I went to see Young Pretender by Nabokov, Escalator East to Edinburgh and Hull Truck Theatre. Stacey and I were really excited to see this, because we love all things Scottish.

'We’ve been in revolution since I was born. I never had to die before'. At 25 years old, the brilliant but reckless Bonnie Prince Charlie rebelled in a blaze of glory. By the time he was 26 his dreams lay in ruins and he was fleeing for his life. Amidst the chaos of war and in the face of defeat, the Young Pretender is forced to confront the moment when idealism dies and realism sets in. The flawed Prince is brought to life vividly in this unflinching look at the nature of rebellion.

This Rock-n-Roll twist on Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite uprising was really good. The acting was incredible, and the music was awesome, but the writing was lacking, and so the performance could only be so good. But I really liked it, and again it makes me want to study more on the Jacobites, and makes me wonder what Scotland would be like today if Charlie had succeeded.

Our final performance for the night was "Shakespeare Bingo: Titus!" by Bombini Theatre Company. That's right... I got to play bingo while watching a shortened and hilariously modernized version of Shakespeare's bloodiest and craziest play.

I got to play bingo, and laugh until I cried. I don't think I'll ever be able to think of a classical death scene the same. I will have an image of a super soaker filled with kool-aid in my mind forever. I'm still laughing when I think of it.

That was a perfect end for the day. It was funny and light, and just what I needed.

THURSDAY

In the morning I went to see "Generation 9/11: So far, so close" by Chris Wolfe. It was a one man show, and it was a wonderful way to remember a life changing, and world changing event.

"This was extremely gripping. The solo performer captured a number of widely diverse characters, and gave a fair and balanced view of all sides of responses to 9/11 (which is not easy to do). It is not just a grimfest - the humor of the characters and the (fortunately unneedy) appeal of the actor make it a theatrical pleasure." (A review from a paying audience member Anthony Arn)

I appreciated that we became a part of the performance. Right before we were admitted into the venue we were handed a blank card that said "9/11 was:" and then we were to write what we thought. At one point in the performance Chris read what we the audience had to say, and it just made us all that much more involved in an event that impacted everyone in one way or another. Another worthwhile show to see.

Then Stacey and I went to see "Hamlet House of Horror" by Westminster Theatre Company.

‘...a breakneck rip-through of Hamlet re-imagined as the bastard cartoon mash-up of Tim Burton, Edward Gorey and Shockheaded Peter’ **** (Time Out),

We were both intrigued with the idea of what Hamlet + Tim Burton + music would =. I have to say we were both happy with the result. The gothic, witty, depressing, and funny result was worth the price of admission. It was the comic relief I needed as an intermission of my theatre marathon of a day.

Our final performance of the night was The Boy James by Belt Up Theatre.

I don't have enough words to describe how powerful, meaningful, and lasting this work of art was. It is something that has stuck with me, and helped re-inspire me, and rejuvenate me in my love of theatre. I'm in awe of that production, and wish that everyone could go and see it. I find myself in agreement with Stephen Fry when he said: "Been knocked out by 'The Boy James'... still drying my eyes."

All in all it was an incredible theatre experience and one that ultimately saved my dissertation. (I am still waiting on my marks as we speak. Everyone keep your fingers crossed for good marks.)

New Project

2011-10-08T21:23:00.002-06:00

So I have been a little adrift since coming home from England, and I'm not quite sure what to do with myself. So I've decided to try a little project. It won't be as intensive as the picture a day project, but I got the idea while I was falling asleep and I thought I would give it a try.

I am going to post post-card inspired posts on my blog with my friend Sammiee (www.innerlightposse.blogspot.com) once a week. This past year I have had the opportunity to go to a lot of wonderful places, and I want to share that with others. I will post the post card and a few fun facts from the various locations.

So if you would like to follow it or send me post cards of places you have been to or of where you live please send it to me by email at sistersarahjagger@yahoo.com or by regular mail at:

3041 Cowell Road
Concord, CA 94518
USA

PS I will be posting more posts here of my adventures in the past few months. Sorry for falling of the face of the earth for awhile.

xxx

Adventures in Edinburgh with Patrice Day 1

2011-07-11T05:31:00.008-06:00

This past week I had the opportunity to go back to Scotland and explore a bit with my friends.

I arrived on Tuesday and walked around the mile with Stacey and Mary while Kaylee and Patrice explored the castle. Then we came to Stacey's for the evening. And when Stacey went out for her birthday dinner we got her a cake and a card. Patrice put in all the candles, and the cake turned out to look like an explosive.

The only problem was we fell asleep before we could sing to her and give her her cake. She stayed out pretty late for her birthday dinner. So we woke her up and sang to her the next morning.

After we sang to Stacey and got ready for the day we went to Rosslyn Chapel, just on the outskirts of Edinburgh. We met my friend Emma there, and toured the inside of the chapel, and the grounds surrounding it. It is a beautiful place and well worth the 7 pounds you pay to go in.

Patrice and Stacey could have spent hours at the chapel.

Patrice had a lovely way of sneaking into my pictures.

Emma and Patrice became fast friends.

The grounds surrounding the castle remains and the chapel are beautiful.

After that we explored a bit of Edinburgh, and some of the filming locations of BBC's 'North & South'.

First up was the 'London' home of Margarets aunt.

This is the home of the Hales when the move to Milton.

Patrice walking in the steps Richard Armitage once did.

Right around the corner was the church they used for the locations of Mr. Hales tutoring and lecturing and the location of the meetings the mills union met. (Man I sound so nerdy explaining the locations.)

And up on Calton Hill we found many of the walks that Margaret takes throughout the film.

We also went to the old Colton Cemetery where they filmed part of the movie. We weren't sure which part, but I think it was some of Thorntons walks. We may never know... but it was a beautiful cemetary, and we did see the grave of David Hume.

TV's Time Wasting Capability

2011-05-11T15:17:00.003-06:00

So another term is finished; I turned in my giant essays and can now breathe easy again. So what did I decide to do... veg. (Well yesterday, my first free day, I cleaned and did 8 loads of laundry, but today... nothing!)

This here is a list of all the TV I have watched just today:

2 Episodes of "Bones" (Season Six)

2 Episodes of "24" (Season Two)

2 Episodes of the mini series "Cranford" (with Annie)

the pilot of a new TV show called "The Breakout Kings"

THEN I watched 2 more episodes of 24 with the rest of the gang, and now I am in bed watching the second episode of "The Breakout Kings" currently.

What a day!

A New Perspective

2011-03-23T14:47:00.009-06:00

Sometimes it takes a new set of eyes to appreciate what is right in front of you. Such was the case for me. I hadn't been taking advantage of my surroundings until my friend Beckah came to visit. With her here, I fell in love with England again.

Our adventures were awesome. I've posted just a few of the pictures that retell a bit of our fun.

We first explored the Canterbury area, since I had class that day. We found gems in the town square and a foot path just outside of it, that was awesome! We came across an exercise park.

Going to London was almost like visiting the city for the first time. There really is so much to do, that I'm not sure I will ever get to see all I want to.

It was great fun to act the tourist part all over London town! Here are some of the highlights of our adventures in London:

Westminster Abbey

Rude gargoyle on Westminster Abbey

Grumpy Winston Churchill statue

Buckingham Palace (not nearly as grande as I was expecting)

Victoria Monument at Buckingham Palace

The Princess Diana Memorial Fountain at Hyde Park

The Peter Pan Statue at Kensington Gardens

Us on the tube going to see "War Horse" (FANTASTIC by the way!)

Broadstairs was just a ridiculous adventure. If you want to read more about it, look at the pilgrims blog. But it was crazy to know that we have such a fun beach town so close. It will be useful this summer.

Then there was our adventure at Dover Castle. Who knew a castle could be so much fun. We've decided that we want to rent out the castle for a day to play with all our friends. Also we need to buy a castle with lots of rooms for all our friends and family to live in.

And finally our little village Chilham. It has been really good to see our home in a refreshing light. Walking around it again helps me fall in love with it all over.

So thank you for the many wonderful adventures this past week Beckah! You are already missed.

A Breath of Fresh Air

2011-02-10T08:56:00.018-07:00

Life has been a bit difficult this past little while, I am not sure if it was a bout of depression, or just being a bit moody, but this winter has been a sad one for me. A little too much of the heavy, so the books I have been reading for pleasure have been a bit on the lighter side. I recently have finished The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett and The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Both of these books are so lovely; and just what I needed. (The Potato Peel Pie Society wasn't completely light and fluffy, but it had a wonderful balance to it.)

The Secret Garden took me awhile to read. I really only read it on bus journeys to and from school when I wasn't studying anything else. So it's been about three months since I started the book. But I loved the peace and comfort I got from reading a book meant for children. The writing style and imagination are just beautiful, and it really helped that I was reading this whilst I live in a small village in the southeast of England.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes from the book:

"Them as is not wanted scarce ever thrives."

"One of the new things people began to find out in the last century was that thoughts-- just mere thoughts-- are as powerful as electric batteries--as good for one as sunlight is, or as bad for one as poison. To let a sad thought or a bad one get into your mind is as dangerous as letting a scarlet fever germ get into your body. If you let it stay there after it has got in you may never get over it as long as you live."

"It seemed actually like the laughter of young things, the uncontrollable laughter of children who were tying not to be heart but who in a moment or so- as their excitement mounted- would burst forth."

Unlike The Secret Garden, I read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society rather quickly. I found it on our bookshelf last weekend, and finished it last night. I was swept up so quickly in the fictional world that I actually started to think these characters were real. I wanted to travel and see these wonderful people, and experience their day to day life. I really would recommend this book to almost everyone. I won't tell you what its about so that you can just be drawn in by the genius of the authors.

I will tell you a few of my favorite quotes from the book:

"Perhaps there is some sort of homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers. How delightful if that were true."

"...humor is the best way to make the unbearable bearable."

"It's lucky I have my lovely new dress, so I didn't have to waste precious fretting time on my clothes."

"Though it's biologically impossible, I can only assume that some form of nepotism was responsible for the books publication."

"You can purchase my silence with torrid details, you know."

"Your questions regarding that gentleman are very delicate, very subtle, very much like being smacked in the head with a mallet... The first rule of snooping is to come at it sideways."

"In other words, get a wheelchair, get a crutch, get a donkey to tote you, but come home NOW."

"Isola doesn't approve of small talk and believes in breaking the ice by stomping on it."

I could go on for pages... literally, I have written down tons of quotes. I just love this book and think it is wonderful. But here is my issue. I have finished this incredible book, and feel a lack of its fictional world. I mourn not being there anymore. I need a good book. I have narrowed it down to three that have been in my stack for awhile: 1. The Time Travelers Wife, 2. Nineteen Minutes 3. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. I really am not sure which I will read, but I hope they are as good as the last book I've read.

But as always I can use a bit of help in book recommendations. www.whatshouldireadnext.com has just given me way too many. But it has been helpful.

Yay for books, and being transported into new worlds!

Awesomely Awesome!

2011-02-05T13:37:00.003-07:00

WARNING THIS POST HAS A SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT SEEN TANGLED!!!

On Friday we all adventured our way to the Ashford cinema to go see "Tangled" and I have to say it is freakin awesome! It has been too long since I have seen a good ol' Disney movie. This one made me so happy

And during the awesome movie I just kept thinking how much I loved it when Mandy Moore had her short hair, and how I loved it when I had that type of short hair. Then her character in the movie inspired me to change!

So I cut my hair!!!!

I have needed a change and this haircut was perfect. I already feel so much cuter, and so much happier! It's amazing how a small change can alter our whole outlook!

Adventures in Belgium

2010-12-17T16:25:00.007-07:00

I was lucky enough to go on a school funded trip to Belgium for a Theatre and Dance. It was an adventure to say the least. Tuesday was the day of traveling. Started in England traveled through France to Belgium. Took a train from Brussels to Bruges, and walked from one end of the cobblestone to the center where our hostel was located.
Our hostel was straight out of a Tim Burton movie; part Alice in Wonderland, and part Willy Wonka. Too bad the smell wasn’t of chocolate.

That first night we went to our first show called “In Time” it was a dance piece about relationships and passion. Moments of it were beautiful, but overall it was too cliché and too naked without art or purpose. I mean what artistic pieces of theatre aren’t about relationships, love, and passion? A plus side was that the theatre was beautiful!

The next day we went to a conference and a show. The conference was about dance, theatre, and migration in conflict zones. Most of the talks were interesting, and varied. However, they were wordy and full of themselves. They loved the tone of their own voices. The show however was wonderful, and refreshing (besides one hilariously ridiculous naked dance… which I won’t go into detail about.) I was grateful for the people I was with; they were a breath of fresh air.

The next day was a free day for us up until our train at 7. So for the day we acted as tourists; we climbed the clock tower, ate at a fancy restaurant, bought chocolate, went for a canal walk, ate a waffle, and then traveled back to Brussels. Then our train back home. It felt good to come home.

Ioanna tried sour straws for the first time, and as you can see she did not enjoy them.(Honestly this is one of my most favorite pictures ever!)

So in summary, Belgium is cool, but I don’t know if I ever need to go back. Belgium is known for: Jean Claude Van Damme, mussels, lace, chocolate, waffles, and weird hostels!

Field Trips are Awesome!

2010-12-06T15:17:00.002-07:00

All my bags are packed... I'm ready to go....

Okay, that first statement is a lie. I'm not packed, but I am REALLY excited. Tomorrow morning I get to travel to Belgium for a school trip. We're going to a theatre conference and watching a few shows. It's going to be awesome. I get to go to continental Europe for my first time. I hope I get another stamp on my passport!

I will blog about my adventures when I get back!

The Attitude of Gratitude

2010-11-25T18:12:00.004-07:00

I haven't blogged here in awhile, and I am not sure why. The past few weeks have been really great, and really difficult; but what has helped me stay positive is realizing and remembering just how lucky I am. So I'm stealing an idea from Kathleen, and I'm going to blog about what I am grateful for.

First I have to say that I am grateful for my testimony in the gospel of Jesus Christ; that truly has been my rock and my foundation. I need to make sure I do not forget all I have been blessed with because of that testimony, and the joy/peace that comes with it.

I am also grateful for my wonderful family. I have been blessed to have an incredibly thoughtful and supportive family. They have helped me become the woman I am today. I know that their examples of love, kindness, honor, and trust have have lovingly guided me along the right path.

I also feel a great sense of gratitude for my friends. I feel so lucky to have friends that make me feel loved and supported. Whether I see them every day, or haven't seen them in years, I still feel connected to them, and their influence in my life. I don't know where I would be without the example of those with whom I am blessed to call friends.

I am grateful for this adventure I call life. I get to live in England for a year; I get to further my education, and also further my friendships with three of my very best friends/family. (Kathleen, Annie, and Jesse) I also get to participate in the wonderful Canterbury ward. (Where I am also making some incredible friends.)

I am full of gratitude at the moment and can't find words to express it. I truly hope your Thanksgiving has been as memorable as my own. God bless. Know that you are in my thoughts, and that you have made an imprint on and in my heart.

The Theatre Life

2010-11-12T08:57:00.002-07:00

I thought I would share a post about school. I am getting my MA in European Theatre, and am really loving it. It is really different from what I expected, but it is really interesting and something I am enjoying studying.

Part of my course is seeing shows in London, and some here in Canterbury. I am also going to Brussels for a conference next month. I thought I would share with everyone the shows I have seen so far.

The first show I made it to was "Money" by a company called Shunt. Now the inspiration from this show was Emile Zola's novel "L'argent" (which I haven't read) and loosely based on the financial crisis the UK is in now. Now that being said, it was really more a spectacle for the senses to me. There really wasn't much of a text and it seemed more about the built space and around the theme of money. I really enjoyed it, but don't know how to fully explain it.

The next show I got to see was "Faust" at the Young Vic in London. It was being done by the Icelandic company Vesturport. Again it was inspired by Goethe's text, as well as Marlowe's, however the company decided to make up their own text that is loosely based on Faust.

Again they had a fantastic set, and incredible talent. Unfortunately they also enjoyed shocking the audience. I am usually okay with this if it has a purpose, but it seemed to be shock just for cheap thrills. I liked the performance, but came away feeling like I was spoon fed the idea and theme; it was a watered down 'after school special' of Faust.

Then I went to see "Operation Greenfield" at the Gulbankian in Canterbury. Now this was my first experience with devised theatre, and I had no idea what to expect. I really loved it. I was impressed at the musicality of the group. So many wonderful instruments, and I loved the theme of faith and religion. I don't know how to describe it, except say it was a breath of fresh air. So far it's been my favorite thing I've seen.

And this past Tuesday I went and saw "The Caretaker" by Harold Pinter, which was playing at the Gulbankian. This was the first straight play I have seen since getting here. Here they stuck to the script, and it was a naturalistic take on Pinters text. It was refreshing to see something that wasn't trying to push buttons or be edgy. Saying that though, it was boring. I'm not a huge fan of the play, but it was nice to see something that was safe.

On Saturday I am seeing "Blasted" by Sarah Kane, and I know I will be shocked.
Next Saturday I am seeing "MacBeth" but I am afraid it won't be sticking to the text, so I'm not too sure what I will thin of it. I will tell you all about it soon.

Brilliant Book!

2010-11-08T08:42:00.002-07:00

Before I moved to England I got recommended "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins. I purchased it and put it into my carry on bag, ready to read. Well for some reason or another I haven't had the opportunity to read it. This weekend Jesse decided to read it... and a day later (when he had finished it) he told me that I would love it.

That reminded me that I had the book and a sort of free day. So yesterday I read the book. Today I am waiting for Jesse to finish the second book. (He went to the book store to buy the other two.) We are addicted. It is so good!

Kathleen is the next to read the book, just as soon as she has some down time.

I cannot believe I waited so long to read it. It is sososososososo good. I am a little nervous to see where the series goes with the next book, but I am also just so excited to get back into that world.

This is the UK paperback cover.

This is the US paperback cover.

Birthdays in England!

2010-11-05T12:39:00.008-06:00

This year all of our birthday's will be spent somewhere in Europe or the UK. I originally chose Scotland, but that didn't work out, so I thought London would be a fun place to experience.

So we decided to go to the London Dungeons (it's close to Halloween so it was perfect.) Even before we paid for our tickets I was singled out. A zombie midget decided I need to get my head cut off. Apparently I was too cheeky.

Honestly it was a lot of fun, and a loads of laughs. A great start of the day.

After losing my head we decided to get our tickets and wait in the queue. We were all getting really excited and scared. It had been awhile since any of us had been to a haunted house. And this one is a historical haunted house. (So cool.)

Wow... it was way scarier than I thought it was going to be. But it was awesome. I was picked on to be the leader of our group. My new name is Brownlow. My favorite part of being Brownlow was when a little girl turned to me and said (in the cutest little proper British/English accent.) "You're our leader." It melted my heart.

All in all an awesome scary start to the day. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. Even as I was screaming.

It was then time for lunch. "Yo Sushi" was our destination! It was my first experience with conveyor belt sushi choices. It was an adventure, and so yummy! Annie was the sushi master!

After our yummy lunch we were off again. I quickly stole a picture of Annie and Kathleen on the car next to mine. Our travels that day were spent mostly on the tube or "chube" as the locals called it. =)

Our next destination was Covent Gardens to do a bit of sight seeing and shopping. I got a few scarfs and a cool book for Cherie that she had been looking for. It was in this awesome little Puppet Theatre book shop.

I also bumped into my future husband. Isn't he so dreamy! It was love at first sight.

We then decided to head towards Kensington Gardens, by way of Hyde Chapel, I really wanted to see that church building for some reason.

But we finally made it to Kensington Gardens to see the Peter Pan statue. I love that book/play/film. I loved that park. All except for the crazy old English lady who was feeding the ducks and swearing at them at the same time. It was funny, and yet really hard not to laugh at her.

We then headed towards St. Pauls Cathedral to head to "Paul" a restaurant that Allison, Jesse, and Kathleen have raved about. Sadly it was closed. (What places close at 7 on Saturday nights?) So we then decided to head towards are final train station and find something to eat by there.

We ate at Pizza Express, and in all honesty it was amazing. I was expecting something similar to Pizza Hut, but it was incredible. I got a pizza with a salad in the middle of it. It was genius!

On a side note, I really love this picture of everyone. How lucky am I to be loved by these people, and get to adventure with them!?!?!?!?!?

Kathleen and Jesse got some really good hot chocolate with their desserts. (Just wanted to put in this cute picture of the two of them.)

No fun Jesse (this facial expression) decided to eat his ice cream. Which was good from what I heard.

I of course got chocolate cake with vanilla gelato. It really was heaven (though not nearly as good as the cake Annie made me later on in the week.)

I ate the whole thing! yum!!!!

That was the end of our daytrip to London. It was incredible, and we fit quite a lot into one day. It looks like I tired them all out!

It really was one of the best birthdays to date. A day as random as I am.

They say you are as old as you feel. Then I would say I just celebrated my 10th birthday. I still am such a kid at heart! Can't wait to see what the next year holds.

Yay For Good Books

2010-10-19T02:35:00.002-06:00

I just finished reading Pride and Prejudice, and I have to say that I loved it. I got the idea that I should try reading it again when we moved into our little cottage, and I have to say it was the perfect time to read that book. It wasn't hard to imagine myself in that time period when I live in the annex to an estate!

But now I am at a loss as to what to read. I still feel like I want that time period-y stuff... so... any ideas? (I already read Jane Eyre too, and I loved it. Oh and I've read Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, and thought it was awesome too.)

Please share your book ideas with me!

Where Else You Can Catch Me

2010-10-16T14:24:00.002-06:00

So as you may have noticed I don't write on this blog too often. The problem is I am writing on too many other blogs. So I thought if you were interested I would give you those to follow if you wanted to.

First off I have a blog with my friend Samiee. It is here that I post my picture a day project. You can see those pictures at www.innerlightposse.blogspot.com

Then I have a blog with all my friends adventuring in England. We are posting about all our crazy adventures. You can read that at www.sillypilgrims.blogspot.com

So if you're wondering where I am, I'm probably writing on those blogs. I will try and post here too, but I might neglect this blog a bit. I apologize in advance.

Next Update!

2010-10-16T13:58:00.003-06:00

So... once I arrived in England I thought it would be a simple thing to find housing. I soon learned I was wrong. Monday morning we went into town to do a few things, and then we took a train to Whitstable since we decided we would like to live in a village if we could. Well we soon learned that it was really hard to find housing as students. There was a new legislation that said that owners had to file a petition of some sort to let/rent to students, and there is an issue if you have more than three people who are unrelated. Also they refused to have shared rooms. Plus the smaller villages (Whitstable and Herne Bay) really don't like having students in the villages.

I've never wanted to love a village so much and then felt so disheartened upon leaving it. Whitstable was so perfect, and yet it just wasn't meant to be.

Then on Tuesday we decided to go to all the letting/renting agencies in Canterbury. Kathleen was our lucky one that day. She got us in the door for several "maybes" and at the end of the day we didn't feel quite so let down as we had the day before.

That Wednesday we had to leave our hotel room, it was getting way too expensive to stay there. One of the ward members had a tent we could stay in, in his garden/backyard. So we went to the housing office on campus and the did a few letting agencies and had our first viewing from the letting agency. That place didn't look right, but we had faith we would get a home. And we were excited to camp out for a few nights, and save some money.

Thursday was our miracle day. We went back to the housing office on campus and they told us of a new place opening up in Chilham, and that it might be perfect for us. That afternoon we got a hold of Emma (our landlady) and we able to come view the place that afternoon. WE FELL IN LOVE WITH IT, and the rest is history. We got to move in the next day, and it has been the house of requirement* ever since.

(We call it the house of requirement because it's like the room of requirement from Harry Potter, it seems to have everything we need, even down to the details. It's awesome.)

Our hotel room was a bit crowded... for people to a bed. We ended up sleeping the opposite way. We were able to fit then... Jesse on the end, Kathleen next to him, me and then Annie... it was really crowded!

This isn't a great picture, but it gives you an idea of the HUGE tent we got to live in for 2 days!

Update!

2010-09-27T02:37:00.003-06:00

Now that things have settled down a bit I feel like I can post about my crazy adventures to England. I'm here, I'm safe, and we have a place to live that is perfect for us! Now on with the fun stuff.

Let's go back to Saturday September 18th. I was in Spokane, packed, ready, and waiting on the UPS man to deliver my much anticipated UK Visa, and my passport. My flight is scheduled for 12:30 to Seattle, and everything was supposed to run smoothly. (We had paid 80$ for it to be overnighted to us and arrive by no later than 10am) Well 10 passed, as well as 11. My mom and I were frantically calling UPS trying to figure out what on earth had happened. The UPS agent told my mother that she would refund the 80 dollars and she could promise us that it would arrive my noon. That would do no good, because it was at least a half an hour drive to the Spokane airport from the Thorson home, and my flight was at 12:30. But there was nothing we could do but wait.

At 11:50 the UPS truck arrived at the Thorson home. We met him in the driveway and signed for the package. We were going to try to make it to my flight. If not we would go from there. We hit every traffic jam and construction sight known to man. Sadly we didn't make it for my first flight. We arrived at the airport at 12:20 and they wouldn't let me check in. However there was another flight leaving at 1:45. We scheduled my flight and checked me in. I gave Jesse's dad a hug and told him if he didn't hear from me that was a good thing and I made all my flights. That man really is a life saver!

I survived my first flight,and got to the baggage claim at SeaTac and grabbed a cart for all the giant bags I got to transport. Then I headed to the check in desk for IslandAir. By some miracle the "Mark" I was supposed to meet was working and remembered my situation. By another miracle I made it on the plane. I had to check my carry on luggage and pay for the extra bags. I really didn't care, it was better than buying a whole new ticket. And then I ran for the gate. I had to, they were checking people on as I ran.

By some miracle they had to stop boarding for a problems with the toilets. (For a 7 hour flight I am really glad that made sure those were working properly.) I sent a quick email to the school that I did made my flight and I was needing a lift from Heathrow. I also shared that I probably wouldn't be able to check my email until I landed in London. So I only prayed I would find them. Then I boarded the plane and thanked my lucky stars that I made it.

I now know why my plane ticket was so inexpensive. You have to buy anything you want to eat, and the only thing for free is the soda. But still I made it!

Landing in Heathrow was fine, and getting through the airport security was fine. I had to run around the baggage claim to find all my bags, and then I headed towards the exit. Then there was yet ANOTHER miracle. With hundreds of people around me I found the University of Kent people and knew that I would make it at least as far as campus. My only concern at that moment was finding Jesse, Kathleen, and Annie.

Again, another miracle.. they were right there at the school where the school dropped us off. I was finally here, with my friends, and we were all safe. I thought that would be the end of all the craziness, but little did I know that was only the beginning.

** I will post the next update soon, my hand is cramping, and it is close to lunch time! I love you all and hope you are well!

My So Called Life

2010-09-17T12:54:00.004-06:00

Okay my life has been crazy like non other the past 3 weeks. I have lived in three states, moved out of an apartment, quite my job, visited family and friends, missed a flight, waited on UPS like a little kid trying to spot Santa on Christmas Eve, and watched three people I love leave the country without me.

Now before I go and be all depressed I just want to say that I know all of this has happened for a reason, and I know I will see the hand of the Lord in all of this very soon I am sure. I think I've seem glimpses already.

So here's where it gets really crazy. I now know that my visa was approved and being sent to me. (I found out about an hour after I dropped Annie, Kathleen,and Jesse at the airport.) My mom received it at 8 am this morning. She then turned around and overnighted it to me. I will receive it by 10 am tomorrow. Then I will catch a plane at Spokane at 12::30 that will land in Seattle at 1:30.

I then get to run to the Icelandic Air desk and speak to the manager that Jesse talked to and pray I get on that flight at 4:30 otherwise I will be stuck in the SeaTac airport without any phone or anyone within 6 hours of me. (FUN!!) I always pray for adventures and say I dislike "boring" but this may be a bit extreme.

**On a side note the reason I need to get to this flight is because Jesse talked to the manager at the airport yesterday and explained my situation. That manager said he works Saturday and if I could make it to the same flight on Saturday that he would put me on that flight, with my old itinerary.)

So yes it's crazy, and I really hope it works. Everyone keep their fingers crossed and say just a few more prayers for me! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for all your prayers and support! I really am just so close!

I will keep you updated as it all unfolds! For now I will go play with Mollie and Judd!

I Think I'm In Love

2010-08-27T20:22:00.002-06:00

Last night Cherie, Erika, and I went to the cheap movie theater, and saw "A-Team" and oh my gosh I think it's my new favorite movie. I was laughing so hard. Now I have to say that before I watched this movie I was not a fan of Bradley Cooper. I just don't like the characters he has played and I have not been impressed by him... but that changed when watching this movie. I had a perma-grin all throughout the movie. He was fantastic, as were the rest of the actors.

I would recommend this movie to anyone who loves action movies!

Lessons Learned

2010-08-23T11:01:00.003-06:00

As is obvious to anyone who has had the pleasure of my company for the last week, I have had a hard week. Anything and Everything that could go wrong DID. Now throughout the week, and still now (if I'm being honest) I am struggling to see the good in any of this.

At this point it is all out of my hands, but that ALSO is driving me crazy. I know that I am the one who chooses how to react, I just wish I had a better eternal perspective.

Heavenly Father has given me quite a few spiritual TIME OUTS where I can feel his peace, and feel rested in order to take on the next event, but really sometimes I wish I could just see the end of all of this. It really is getting funny at this point.

I will try to share a few of the experiences to prove my point, or to just share a giggle.

1. I order a book online, and it takes the longest time ever to get to me... spending 3 days in Denver.
2. I order a computer a week ago, it is still processing now. I have called every weekday since, to try and help it along... to no avail... every time I call it is still processing and there is nothing they can do about it.
3. I leave Utah next Friday and have to leave my apartment by the 31st, and that is the mailing address for the UK Border Agency to send my visa. (Did I mention I haven't been thinking to clearly... or maybe I could have avoided that.)
4. Went to the temple on Saturday, ended up running late and missed the session.
5. Got nasty blisters on my feet from the shoes I wore to the temple.
6. The poor guy who bought my motorcycle is now fighting with my bank to get the bike title, even though he paid for it. (I think my bad luck is now rubbing off on others.)
7. Got pink eye last week.
8. Face broke out all last week.

I really am waiting to hear of the next big upset. Now though I just giggle when these things happen. I think that that has been the best point of view for me to take at this point.

The amazing thing is that with all this negative I have been feeling an outpouring of love, and have been learning a lot spiritually. So maybe that is the good balance. My life is on a crazy tailspin, all except my spirituality, which is really making leaps and bounds in the positive!

So I thought I would share some of the great words of wisdom that have helped me in the past week. Who knows who else needs it!

"I can choose how I'm going to regard unfortunate circumstances in my life- whether I will see them as curses or opportunities (and on the occasions when I can't rise to the most optimistic viewpoint, because I'm feeling too damn sorry for myself, I can choose to keep trying to change my outlook.)"
--Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. P. 177

"Discouraging things will happen, but we will not get discouraged." --Johnathan Dippold, missionary of the SEM.

"I know God won't give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much." --Mother Teresa

"Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed." D&C 123:17

Moment of Peace

2010-08-20T13:34:00.003-06:00

So as you can see this week has been a bit stinky. I have been in a bad mood and just not fun to be around. Well yesterday when I got home, I decided to splurge on a Dr Pepper. I was wanting to wallow and wanted to do it with a giant DP.

So after going to the gas station near my house I decided to go for a walk on my usual running path. I brought my camera and decided to take some pictures if I saw anything I liked.

The Lord really blessed me with peace and joy as I walked by myself along this quiet street. I'm grateful for the tender mercy of peace... of stillness, and I was grateful for the opportunity to have the evening to myself.

On a good note I ran into someone from the ward who wondered if I wanted a ride to the Salt Lake Temple tomorrow morning for ward temple day. I said yes I would love a ride. And I am so excited to spend time in the Lord's house tomorrow. I need some closeness, peace, and comfort from my Heavenly Father.

This picture made me laugh, in a non blasphemous way... I like that there was a pillar of light with me. And I think it looks cool in the picture.

Grumble ALERT!

2010-08-19T10:04:00.002-06:00

***WARNING: this blog entry is really whiny and dramatic. I apologize in advance. Proceed with caution.

Alright so today was a stinky day for several reasons... the most stressful was that I had NOT sent in all the required documents for my student visa yet. So I kind of freaked out... screamed into a pillow... cried... pulled myself together, and then gathered all the necessary documents. (And then some.)

This morning I overnighted it to the UK Border Agency in LA. They say they need 10 business days to process this. That doesn't seem like it should be an issue.. .however... 10 business days form when they will receive it will be September 2... and the big issue is I move from Utah SEPTEMBER 3rd! I'm out of my apartment on SEPTEMBER 1st.

I've filled out a change of address form for the post office online, and it should be in affect NOW... the only issue of THAT is in the fine print it says that government agency's don't really pay attention to that.

So in the package I sent to today I gave them my new address... let's just hope they send it to my parents! (I will have a friend checking my old mail box daily for me, and she will overnight it to me if need be.)

Let's just hope everything works out!

The next few weeks are crazy! I drive back to Cali on September 4th. Fly to Spokane on the 13th, and fly from Seattle to London on the 16th! I need my visa!!!!

I've done all of my parts. Now all I can do is wait... and I'm not very good at that.

Haircut!

2010-08-16T09:09:00.005-06:00

So I realized I hadn't really told anyone that I had chopped my hair off!

My hair used to be really long, and it looked really really good if I took the time to straighten it or try to do something with it.

But more often that not I always had it in a ponytail or messy bun. Riding a motorcycle and wearing a helmet is not very conducive for good hair.

So finally I decided to chop it all off. I have been wanting to do this for awhile, and finally just got the nerve up to do it about two weeks ago. I love it and I feel like it is just more my personality.

What do you think? I love it!

Farmers Market!

2010-08-16T08:58:00.003-06:00

On Saturday I walked to the Farmers Market that takes place in the park by my house. It has been so long since I have been to one but I LOVE them! They remind me of my friends and family.

This one was kind of small, but I enjoyed it none the less. I thought I would share my picture highlights from my adventure. (On a funny side note, because of my pink eye... I avoided all people and wore GINORMOUS glasses. I'm sure I looked weird and antisocial.)

This Santa was just sitting next to the booth with the face painting. So random!

This brought back all sorts of childhood memories of chasing down the ice cream man.

I am saddened that I haven't been here every Saturday!

And finally my yummy purchases! I am in love with tomatoes and fresh green beans!

*Oh and on another funny side note. There were random theater people yelling at us to go over to the "Big Tree" to watch their free production of Romeo & Juliet. Gotta love nerdy theater people... (I refuse to believe I am like them.)

In Memory of Angus

2010-08-07T21:24:00.003-06:00

I dedicate this post to my amazing motorcycle... Angus. Happily, and unfortunately, I was able to sell my motorcycle on Friday.

I am still so proud that I achieved my goals of getting my motorcycle license, and buying a bike. Words can't express how much I loved riding a motorcycle. It is so freeing to be in control of a bike. It was the biggest confidence booster I've ever had. And as soon as I get back in the states I am buying another one!

But you will always be remembered Angus!!!

New Long Term Goal

2010-08-05T08:56:00.005-06:00

Okay so at work my friend Samiee and I always come across crazy stuff on the Internet, and a few days ago she sent me this link:

http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/15131

and honestly I can't get this out of my head. I just think it's such an awesome idea, and a way to really document your life, and your adventures. I was inspired by what Jamie Livingston did. It's simple and yet profound, and told a beautiful story. Now I don't have a Polaroid camera, but I do have a digital camera, and I think I can take a picture a day. Part of me wants to do this because I am horrible at my journal writing, and part of me wants to try because I'm not sure I can ever stick with a goal long term. So I'm going to give it a go!

I started yesterday, so here is my picture for 8/4/2010.

We had thunder showers all night, with some awesome lightening, and I wanted to try and get a cool picture of that, but I was stuck in my apartment. When I went to go outside there was an army of snails outside my door blocking any type of escape, so this was the coolest picture I could get.

I'm going to post these one a day pictures on a blog I have with my friend Samiee. So if you would like to look at them the blog is http://www.innerlightposse.blogspot.com/

The Summer is Flying By

2010-07-30T16:28:00.006-06:00

Wow, it seems like I just keep neglecting my blog.

Life is going by at an amazing pace, and I love it, I just wish I was a bit more organized. I seem to love living life at a million miles an hour; I only hope I can accomplish all the things I need to in that time span!

I am working full time, and then working extra at my second job. This week alone I will have worked 60 hours. And whenever I get tired all I keep saying to myself is "ENGLAND, ENGLAND, ENGLAND" and so far it's working! I just am an impatient person, and want to be in England NOW! Not 48 days from now.

Let's see, this post is getting to be a bit scatterbrained! Let's see if I can review a bit of what I've been up to. Earlier this month I had the privilege to go to Liz's wedding. SO FREAKIN AWESOME! I love that girl, and I also love that I got to spend time with my Rexburg Family.

That weekend in Rexburg really helped to strengthen my testimony and get me more grounded. It really helped me focus again and see what is most important, and since then I have a renewed inner drive to increase my spirituality and keep myself anchored in the gospel!

This summer has also been a great time to visit new temples. So far this summer I have been to two new ones. Draper and Bountiful. Well they are new to me.

Oh and my other focus this summer is the TV show "So You Think You Can Dance;" I have been addicted to that show for several seasons now, and I just love love love it!

Some of my favorite dances include

Billy and Ade: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlRulUDxbWU
Alex and Twitch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84Eca1D_XGM
Robert and Allison: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORx1faKKecQ

There have been several of the group numbers that have blown me away, like all the ones by Mia Michels, and also the first one by Wade Robson! So incredible. This show makes me wish I could dance. Well first off it makes me wish I had ankles, but that ain't gonna happen, so I will just day dream of becoming a dancer!

Well, I am sure there is more I wanted to post, but I'll try to do that again shortly! Got to get home and rest. I have a double shift tomorrow! (6am-11pm) Yay for working!

Love you all!

LOVED IT!

2010-07-06T13:43:00.002-06:00

Took myself out on a date this weekend and went to see:

I LOVED IT!!! I really did. And I think they have an awesome soundtrack. Can't wait to see it again!

Upcoming Weekend of Awesomeness!

2010-07-06T13:14:00.002-06:00

Allisoni + Sarah + Rental Car= Awesome Road trip to celebrate these two lovebirds below!

Jacob and Liz I am so happy and excited for the two of you!

This weekend has the makings of yet another celestial weekend of awesomeness!

Thinking hurts!

2010-06-24T13:59:00.003-06:00

WARNING: This blog entry will be a bit whiny, and for that I apologize, but I just feel like I need to get it all out, and hopefully gain wisdom from comments of people I love. Or just thoughts of support or insight or argument on another point.

So very very soon my life is going to change, in a big way. I'm going to be quitting my job, moving out of the country, start school for my MA... so basically it's going to be a grand adventure. But why am I so scared?

For one, I haven't saved properly for leaving. I'm going to be relying heavily, if not solely, on financial aid. I'm poor enough already, do I want to be MORE in debt.

Two, the degree I'm going into (European Theatre) isn't all that bankable. I mean yes, it's in theatre, which I love, but I will still have to come back and get my PhD if I want to teach college. And that's a big if.

Three, I'm scared of failure. I'm scared I'll never "grow up" and decide what I want to do with my life.

Plus there are so many things still left to do before I even get to England.
-Student Visa
-Housing
-Schedule
-Save Money
-Sell Angus
-Move all my crap

The only thing really keeping me grounded is that I WANT to do this. I live for adventures, and the safe and boring life I've been living the past two years (since leaving the Ydaho) have been slowly sucking the life out of me. I feel alone, and isolated, and I don't like it.

My mind is chaos, and sadness right now. Again, I'm sorry for being a debbie downer, I just didn't know how to get all of this out of my system. Thank you for reading, or listening to this.

THE END

Ways To Keep Me Entertained At Work

2010-06-17T08:38:00.005-06:00

Now working at a front desk is not the most fulfilling of jobs, but it pays the bills. My co-workers and I have found several ways to keep ourselves entertained. Right now the biggest kick between Samiee and I is reading posts from www.passiveagressivenotes.com it is just so funny!

There is also www.awkwardfamilyphotos.com which is brilliant! Hours of entertainment there. And www.seriouslysoblessed.blogspot.com. Some people are crazy!

Just thought I like to share those with all of you!

Good times!

2010-05-22T12:49:00.008-06:00

About 3 weeks ago I was on my way to donate blood when I narrowly escaped being hit by a truck. A teenager driver in a giant Ford F350 did a lane change without looking while talking on her phone. I went in between two lanes to get out of her way. I was fine until I got to my destination. I was early for donating, which was good, cuz now I was all shaky and my heart was racing. So I decided to go to Barnes & Noble to calm myself down. And I made some fantastic book purchases!

The First Book I bought was called Austenland. It was fantastic; just a lighthearted book about a girl who is obsessed with the BBC version of Pride & Prejudice. Her aunt then pays for her to have a all expense paid vacation to England at a resort that recreates that time period. It's awesome, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Jane Austen novels, or the movies from her books.

The second book I bought was called Water for Elephants. I really only bought it because of the cover and saw that it was about a circus. It was a really good purchase. I really really really liked this book. It is a fast and a great read. Wonderful characters.

I haven't started the third book I bought at Barnes & Noble.

Now I have a bit of bad habit. I am addicted to buying books at DI, and then just placing them on my bookshelf. I mean come on... they are only a dollar! So recently my friend Samiee read a book called Eat, Pray, Love. Now I bought this book at DI a year ago, and have never read it. So I am currently reading it and I love it. I am excited to see the movie when it comes out.

So yeah, I've been doing a bit of reading. I know I should be reading the 50 assigned plays I've been given. (For school in September) but for some reason I can't focus on that.

OH OH OH OH OH last night Cherie, Erika and I went to see the new Karate Kid movie... and it was sooooooo good! Jaden Smith is going to do amazing things in his career! So talented.

So for anyone who was even thinking about going, I have to say you should go! Loved it.

Sorry for the random post. And I promise I will update soon with how my life is going, cuz right now it's all kinds of crazy! Love you all!

I love movies!

2010-05-18T11:43:00.002-06:00

Cherie and I have started a tradition of going to the movies for FHE on Monday Nights. (Really I don't know if it qualifies as a tradition yet. We've only done it for the past two Mondays. Erika came with us this week, so she is now joining in on the tradition.) And yesterday her co-worker told her of this cheap old movie theater in Spanish Fork. Monday nights are family nights so the tickets are only $3. Regular admission is $6. FOR NEW RELEASES. It is so awesome. And it gets even better. When you walk in there are two lines. One for just ordering tickets, and the second is for tickets and concessions. I was so excited. I got in line and got my ticket, nachos, and a large drink. All for the price of a regular ticket at normal movie theaters! So awesome. And then when you walk into the theater, it is dark. They decided not to have any lights on before or after the movie. So you have to kind of stand in the entry way for a few seconds until your eyes adjust. But then once you find your seat it's really funny to watch everyone else walk in the theater. Oh and don't sit in the back row. You might hit your head on lose wall boards! hahahaha... That theater is my new favorite place!

So here are a few of the movies I've seen in the past two weeks:

First off... Iron Man 2. I thought it was awesome. I loved it. I thought they captured the feel of the first movie, and kept it fun. I'm not a huge fan of ScarJo, so I'm lucky she's not in the movie a lot. But really, I think everyone should go see it. If you liked the first one, you'll like this one. Not as much as the first, because really... could they top that? Me thinks not.

I went and saw Remember Me at the cheap theater, on a solo date. I was really glad I went by myself. I know I liked the movie, but the jury is still out on what I think of the movie. I liked the characters, and the location. I liked the relationships. I just don't know how I feel about the ending, and what the filmmakers were hoping to accomplish. But to it's credit; I saw the movie a week ago and am still thinking about it.

So last night at my new favorite theater, we went and saw Robin Hood. I really really liked it, but I felt like it was a Robin Hood prequel. I won't say more since it's such a new release, but I did like the way it was made, and I LOVED the acting. And I usually don't like Russell Crowe, but I think he was born to be Robin Hood.

Holy Cow Where Did April Go!

2010-04-28T19:50:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I swear I did not fall off the face of the earth. Life has just run me over, and really I have nothing to show for it, but a lot of "To Do" lists.

I really have to buckle down and get stuff done for starting school in England!

So here's some of the stuff I need to get done:

-FAFSA
-International Student Scholarship
-Sell My motorcycle
-Get a job for the final three weeks I am in the states
-Figure out when my final days in Utah will be
-Figure out where all my stuff will be whilst I am in England.
-Get my student VISA
-Figure out when to go to Chicago to see my family
-Save Money!
-Sign up for half marathon

OK, so now that I put that down on the blog it doesn't seem like too much to do. Why on earth did I blow this out of proportion. WEIRD.

OK, so disregard this blog, I just felt like whining. And I just wanted the world to know I'm alive!

Love you all!

PS I did really good on the service goal for like a month, then I got too stressed out with the several other goals I set for myself, so I had to let that one go. I am still trying to find ways of serving, I will just not be blogging about it!

Love you all!

I'm behind in recording the days!!!

2010-03-22T10:18:00.002-06:00

So I am behind in posting some of the acts of service for the days. I am having a hard time remembering specific things, since I'm trying to just be more helpful and thoughtful. But I am having so much fun. I am hoping it will become more habitual, and I will always try to take advantage of those opportunities.

DAY 5: I bought a sushi roll for a friend because he was having a bad day.

DAY 6: I took out the trash, and did the apartments dishes.

DAY 7: I made muffins for all of us for our adventure! A tasty snack for the car ride! I volunteered to be the one to get our free chips and salsa from the bar, and I carried some of Cherie's luggage to the hotel room, so she wasn't weighed down with all of it.

DAY 8: I helped direct a man from the gym at our hotel to the main lobby. And I showed another guy where the spare towels were at the gym.

DAY 9: I bought breakfast for us when I was adventuring around our hotel.

Day 4

2010-03-17T11:41:00.005-06:00

So I'm really loving this service goal! But I'm needing to get more creative in ways to serve.

Let's see... yesterday... Day 4 I bought my friends movie ticket for him since he was running late... and I ran a few errands for the ladies at work. Nothing too big, but I still had fun with it.

So if any of you have any good ideas on fun ways to serve... please send them my way!

P.S. There's really no reason for me to put that random picture in this post, but I don't like to post without a picture. (That picture is one I took on my mission... in Ayr whilst I was on a train.)

Mosiah 2:17

2010-03-15T16:19:00.005-06:00

So I have been inspired by my friend Kristi Toponce, and also by the movie Julie & Julia. She sets a year goal, and achieves it. And me, being ADD, find it really hard to set and achieve longer goals, so I have set out on a goal for the next year!

Kristi set the goal to do an act of service everyday for a year, and so far she has done it, and I have no doubt she will succeed. She's just that awesome. And since I can't think of anything more awesome than that, that's what I am going to do. At least one act of service a day!

I started this on Saturday March 13th 2010. Day One was simple, I took someones shift at the massage school. I thought that was a good act of service!

Day Two was pretty dull, but I took out the trash.

Day Three (today) I bought my friend a frosty, cuz she was having a hard time. But the day isn't done yet, so I hope to do something more!

*** Oh if you have any ideas of other ideas for a year long goal, please share!

The Small Things

2010-03-05T10:57:00.003-07:00

It is slightly ridiculous how much better you can feel about yourself when you get a good hair cut.

Now if I could only learn how to style my hair like that on my own!

My New Favorite!

2010-02-12T16:36:00.003-07:00

Ok so I may or may not have been bored and purchased every Kings of Leon album I could find. DON'T BLAME ME! I blame pandora.com for being truly amazing at knowing what type of music I really like! So... since that moment on amazon I have been listening to their albums, and they are FANTASTIC!!!!! I highly recommend them for anyone who is interested. The music is great for running, chilling, driving, driving a motorcycle, walking, reading, baking (I did that last night!) and anything else you can think of doing. Really they're amazing!

Big Smiley Face!

2010-02-09T08:19:00.002-07:00

Ok, so I am trying to get to Rexburg this very weekend! Anyone care to join me? I will pay for the gas! I just am vehicle-less!!!

From Another Time

2010-02-08T16:14:00.005-07:00

Recently I have been watching older classic movies, and listening to older music. For example I am at work right now and listening to one of my Louis Armstrong albums. I just love the peace and happiness I feel when I listen to it. It just seems to be a more respectful and innocent time. I mean I know it wasn't, but I like my dream-like ideals of that time and age.

I just don't see how we have changed so much in so little time, in terms of respect and common decency. But I guess that could be a whole different blog post. I do love where we've come in terms of human rights, and technology, but I think we've taken several steps back in terms of charity and general concern for others. We've become a much more selfish people.

Oh and as for my movie reviews... let's see... this week I've watched: 12 Angry Men, On the Waterfront, Open City, and Fight Club.(on TV)

This movie quickly became one of my most favorite movies ever! So powerful, so brilliant, and amazing! The acting, the idea, the directing, the simplicity, just WOW. Now I had seen the play, and had always wanted to make it an all girl cast, and I think I would still like to do that, but there was something so powerful with having a all guy cast in the time period in which it was set. I just can't say enough good things about this movie. It is a must see for ALL!

I LOVED ON THE WATERFRONT!!! Such an incredible movie, so far my second favorite movie (of the new classics I have seen.) I just love the storyline, the acting, all of it. It was so so so so good!

Open City was an interesting one. First off I loved that none of it was in English, but that was also extremely difficult as they only seemed to subtitle half of the conversations. I loved the story line, and the acting. The actress playing the part of Pina was my absolute favorite! She has been the first "real" woman I have seen portrayed on film in awhile. It isn't on the AFI list, but it's a goodie!

I've always been intrigued by "Fight Club." I have heard amazing things about the film, and so I decided I would watch it when it came on TV. And it did not disappoint. The storyline was incredible. I loved the acting. The idea was awesome. The execution of the film was awesome... even down to tiny details. So so awesome! Plus Brad Pitt's body in the film is incredible. Is it even real? I do have to add a caution however... the language and violence are excessive and shocking at moments. But great film! This one wasn't on the AFI list, but it is on a couple other top 100 film lists. I approve!

And finally... what I am reading! Right now I am 50 pages away from finishing Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith. And oh my goodness it is awesome and hilarious. Now I must preface this by saying that I have never been able to get through the real Pride and Prejudice, I have just seen a few versions of the film, but this book is awesome and I do hope they make it into a film. I would definitly recommend this book to almost anyone! I can't wait to finish!

AFI Top 100 Movies

2010-02-02T15:54:00.003-07:00

So this year I have brought back an old goal of mine. To watch all of the American Film Institutes Top 100 Films. It's kind of a hefty goal, but the fact that Cherie is in a film history class seems to help! Well so far this year I have watched four new films from this list. They are:

Citizen Kane

This film is fantastic, and I can see why it is on the top of every list! It's incredible, and I most definitely want to watch it again! For a while I thought I was watching a documentary, and thought it was a biographical work. All I can say is amazing! (And would I recognize Orsen Wells from anything else?)

Casablanca

Wow this movie is sosososososososo good! So many good quotes, and characters that I love! I see now why everyone talks about this film as well! So good! I think this one may be my favorite movie from the AFI list so far!

Double Indemnity

Okay... this movie blew my mind. I could not believe that they would create something like this at that time period! So awesome! This movie took me a bit to warm up to, but then once it had me... it HAD ME! I had to watch and see what was going on, and oh my gosh it was a race to the end! So fantastic!

The Deer Hunter

Okay so this movie had an amazing cast, and such great potential. But holy cow it was 3 hours and 3 minutes long, and it was at least an hour too long! It took me over an hour to get into the movie, and then it was hard to figure out what the director wanted out of the movie, and then it started to pick up, and then kind of died off again, and then ended well. Now I know that was a horrible run on sentence, but oh my gosh that is what that movie felt like! But on an up note Meryl Streep... looked amazing, and did a fantastic job. Christopher Walken did incredible! And Robert DeNiro... I didn't even believe this was him! He looked really attractive, and was a completely different character than anything else I had every seen him in. It was cool. But the movie itself, I really don't see why it is on the list.

Next up for me to watch tonight! 12 ANGRY MEN! I'm so excited!

Go to Hale

2010-02-02T11:17:00.003-07:00

Woohoo!!! I did a 5k this weekend with Cherie and it was called "When Hale freezes over" and all the money went to the Hale Center Theatre. It was so much fun! But it literally was freezing!

Here are a few before shots, where we were both ice cubes!

Now the race was awesome! I actually jogged the whole first half, which was unheard of for me before! Now my goal was to get in under 40 minutes and to not come in after Cherie's dad who was running the 10k. Both of my goals were accomplished!

I was worried cuz the 10K runners started ten minutes before us... so I thought for sure her Dad would beat me... but I came in at 38 minutes and 12 seconds! And he came in about 4 minutes after me!

I think I have the running bug again! I love it... although I need to get new running shoes.

And here are the after pictures... don't really notice much of a difference, but that's because this is after the race and after lunch! So we're doing great!

I was lucky enough to get a massage after the race, so that felt good too!

Oh and I am still going strong on my weight loss goal! 25 lbs to go!

New Years Eve Throw Down

2010-01-13T14:33:00.004-07:00

I was lucky enough to spend New Years Eve with some of my very best friends. Ella, Beckah and I drove up to visit the Thorsons for New Years. It was a fantastic reunion of friends, but never again will I drive that much! I will fly to see them. So New Years Eve we went out to sushi and then came home to chill and wait for the count down. Well Beckah and Jesse decided to make their own fun, and I got to catch it on film (and by film I mean pictures.) Here is the evidence!

Introducing Beckah "Crazy Eyes" Whittaker who is challenging Jesse "Stink Face" Thorson. *Commence the fighting music in the background.*

I was laughing so hard I nearly peed my pants! Got some amazing pictures. Good heavens I love my friends!

I did it!

2010-01-05T11:42:00.002-07:00

So at the beginning of the year 2009 I set a goal that I would read 50 books by the end of the year. I had no idea if I would accomplish it, but I did... and here is the list:

1. Lemony Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events The Bad Beginning (Book 1)
2. Lemony Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events The Reptile Room (Book 2)
3. Lemony Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events The Wide Window (Book 3)
4. Lemony Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events The Miserable Mill (Book 4)
5. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
6. The Second Summer of the Sisterhood
7. Girls in Pants: The Third Summer of the Sisterhood
8. Forever in Blue: The Fourth Summer of the Sisterhood
9. The Historian- Elizabeth Kostova
10. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time- Mark Haddon
11. The True Confession of Charlotte Doyle- Avi
12. Animal Farm- George Orwell
13. The Chronicles of Narnia (Book One) The Magicians Nephew- C.S. Lewis
14. The Chronicles of Narnia (Book Two) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe–CS Lewis
15. The Chronicles of Narnia (Book Three) The Horse and His Boy- CS Lewis
16. The Almost Moon- Alice Sebold
17. The Chronicles of Narnia (Book Four) Prince Caspian- CS Lewis
18. Are You There Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea- Chelsea Handler
19. The Chronicles of Narnia (Book Five) The Voyage of the Dawn Treader- CS Lewis
20. My Sister’s Keeper- Jodi Picoult
21. Speak- Laurie Halse Anderson
22. Twilight- Stephenie Meyer
23. New Moon- Stephenie Meyer
24. Eclipse- Stephenie Meyer
25. Love Story- Erich Segal
26. Roswell High (Book One) The Outsider- Melinda Metx
27. One for the Money: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
28. Two for the Dough: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
29. Three to Get Deadly: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
30. Four to Score: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
31. High Five: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
32. Hot Six: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
33. Seven Up: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
34. Hard Eight: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
35. Visions of Sugar Plums: The First Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers Novel- J E
36. To The Nines: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
37. Plum Lucky: A Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers Novel- Janet Evanovich
38. Ten Big Ones: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
39. Eleven on Top: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
40. Twelve Sharp: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
41. Lean Mean Thirteen: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
42. Plum Lovin:A Stephanie Plum Between-the-Numbers Novel- Janet Evanovich
43. Fearless Fourteen: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
44. Lemony Snickets: A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Austere Academy (Book 5)
45. The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
46. Finger Lickin’ Fifteen: A Stephanie Plum Novel- Janet Evanovich
47. The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
48. The Nanny Diaries- Emma McLauglin and Nicola Kraus
49. The Lost Symbol- Dan Brown
50. Knots and Crosses: An Inspector Rebus Novel- Ian Rankin
51. Tooth and Nail: An Inspector Rebus Novel- Ian Rankin

And let me just say, all books are not created equal!

So now I need some book suggestions!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-22T16:07:00.004-07:00

Okay so every year I have this idea that I will be able to send Christmas cards to everyone I know and love. But then every year Christmas comes to fast, and postage is too expensive. Sadly this happened again this year. I started with the international ones. And after 40 bucks in postage, and carpal tunnel in my hand I gave up. I did get some Christmas cards out to people in the US, but they are few and far between. And it's not that I don't love all of you guys, it's that I'm poor and time has run out. So I will put in this blog what I put in the Christmas cards!

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To My Dearest Family, Friends, and Loved Ones!

It's that time of year again. The time of year that tends to bring out either the best or worst in people. This season for me has been such a happy one. I have just come to realize how many people I have the privilege of calling friends and loved ones. I feel so blessed to be able to associate with so many wonderful people. Each and every one of you are blessings and miracles in my life. You were brought into my life at a specific time, and have helped mold me into the woman I am today. And I am so grateful for that, and for each of you.

This year has been an adventure. I worked hard and achieved two of my life goals. I got my motorcycle license, and bout a motorcycle, and I went back to school and am working toward becoming a Paramedic. I just finished my EMT-Basic course. Now to throw a curve ball, I have also applied to the University of Kent, in England, to pursue a Masters Degree in European Theatre. I should know by the end of the year if I have been accepted or not. My two great passions in life are theatre and medicine. I just am not sure which fit is best for me, or if both are. We'll see!

Christmas is a wonderful time to be our best selves, and to start over. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and know that you are loved and thought of. Merry Christmas to all! Become a kid again, and enjoy!

Love
Sarah

* Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. -Norman Vincent Peale

* He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. -Roy L. Smith

* I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. -Charles Dickens

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I am so excited for this Christmas! I get to spend it with my family in Cali! I haven't seen them since April, and it will be so good to be able to spend some quality time with them.

I have had quite a few a-ha moments recently. And I have come to the realization that I have been taking my family for granted. I just thought they would always be there and always love me, and we would always have a great relationship. And I hate that I have taken advantage of them like that. They are amazing, and they do love me, and I am lucky to have such a good relationship with them. But I need to put more work and effort into it to show them how much they mean to me! Christmas is all about having the people you love around you, and laughter and love.

I just feel so blessed! And I am so grateful that I know Christ Lives and is an active part in our lives, if we will let Him. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, and following those truths is the only way to have lasting peace and happiness. I am so grateful for my Savior and cherish the love that He continually shows me. I pray that the feelings of this season will stick with me throughout the year so that I can become more like Him. So that I can and will be a true Christian in every sense of the word.

I love each of you and pray that you will have a wonderful Christmas!
All my love!
xoxoxoxoxo

Quote Worthy!

2009-12-18T11:06:00.002-07:00

So Patrice told a story that I had to share. Her brother Shane was sassing her Mother about the fact that they have two Christmas trees and was wondering if they had decorated them yet. And Patrice had a brilliant snappy come back that I thought the world needed to know of... she said:

"Yes we decorated it with shut the hell up, and your an ass tinsel."

Pure genius... I laughed so hard I almost peed my pants!

Oh Christmas... the time you spend with your family... it always brings the best out in us! =D

I heart Patrice!

2009-12-14T14:29:00.005-07:00

Patrice came down and visited this weekend! It was fantastic. I forgot how much I love that crazy girl. She can make me laugh like no other. In honor of her visit we had to visit Pirate Island, and we were lucky enough to get the secret Pirate Cave! It was so exciting. And hilarious. Dinner was eventful since we had Patrice, Cherie, Erika, Christian, Cindi (Cherie's sister), Missy (Christian's girlfriend/love), and me all in one location! It was awesome.

I really like this picture of Patrice it's oddly attractive... I can't really pinpoint why.. .but I really liked it!

Patrice is trying to learn the art of shakeface but caught a fit of the giggles instead. Thus why this picture is so awesome, and so very Patrice.

The giggle fit continues in all it's beauty, and in all it's Patrice-y-ness.

Christian and Missy decided to show us all how the art of shakeface is done! They are so perfect for each other. Love it!

Our cave was so awesome it had hidden booty and Chandeliers... it was quite posh for this pirate establishment!

Christian got transformed into Helga the Viking! And his scarf made very impressive boobies!

When the balloon guy came in we knew that we had to get the girl viking hat for Christian.

Christian is just enjoying all the treasure/booty in the cave!

This is a mid action shot. Patrice was holding her sword in her mouth like a true pirate, but of course I had to catch the moment as it fell out and chaos ensues.

Okay I absolutely love this picture! Cherie is all limbs and Patrice is all torso... it's so funny. When Cherie sits down she is so much shorter than Patrice, but when she stands she is taller! I love the two of them together. So awesome!

This weekend really reminded me how blessed I am to have such fantastic friends. That we can be apart for long lengths of time, and yet when we get back together it is like no time had lapsed at all. It's so fantastic! I really am grateful to be blessed to have so many fantastic friends!

Gotta Love Jagger Time!

2009-12-14T14:09:00.003-07:00

So I got to spend Thanksgiving with the Jagger clan in Chicago. It was so fantastic. The only downside is I didn't find my camera batteries until the last night. So Uncle Mike, Pat, and Granee have all the good pictures.

Man I love my family; I forgot how cool they were and how much I love and appreciate them. I wish I could have spent more time with them, but school wasn't finished and I had only so much vacation time!

I wish all my family were closer, but it was so great to spend time with them. I won't continue being all mushy, but as it is the holiday season I am so grateful and happy that I have such an amazing family! I love that I can be ridiculous and sassy and know that these people will still love me no matter what I do! Plus their Jaggers so they're crazy too!

Sam and Gene deciding to give shakeface a try.

Jen and Abby trying out shakeface, but looking a bit more windblown. =D

Pat and Gene trying shakeface, it's always hard the first try... and you always end up laughing.

Than Pat stole my camera and got some quality shots of the family! Here's Pat and Sam.

Gene and Pat... and a shadow from what Pat's thumb I think.

Pat and Uncle Mike

Pat and Jen looking so cute!

Pat and Abby... she's too cute to be his kid!

Aunt Colleen, Abby and Pat.

And this is a candid shot of Grandma Carol and Grandpa Jack... trying to decide what to order... but I think Grandma's on to me!

Christmas Cards!

2009-12-14T14:05:00.002-07:00

Okay so I have been a horrible human being, and fallen off of the blog world. Well I am trying to right that wrong. But first off I am working on Christmas Cards, and I need everyone's help! I need all of your addresses, so I can send the cards! And right after I post this I will update a bit!

I love you all and thank you for your patience!

Happy Turkey Day!

2009-11-25T20:10:00.002-07:00

Hello Everyone! I just want you all to know that I am alive.... barely... this past month has nearly taken me out! But if I can survive this next week I will be good! So I will give you a recap of my last month.

-Car accident on 11/18. Stupid lady turned right in front of us, we swerve to miss her, but she hits my side of the car. I have a very sore back and neck, and a bruise on my right thigh, but I'm alive. Luckily I wasn't on my motorcycle!

-Clinical hours at American Fork ER on 11/21. The coolest thing ever! I know I shouldn't be happy at others pain, and I wasn't, but being there made me realize that I love helping people, and having the knowledge to make a living out of it. I am loving my EMT class, but it is jut kicking my butt, in a good way! I saw so many things, and it is good to see that I can handle it.

-I am in the process of applying to the University of Kent (England) for my Masters in European Theater. We'll see if I get accepted... and we'll see where I am with the Paramedic Program.

Those are the highlights of the last few months. Right now I'm in Chicago hanging out with my family there! It's a Jagger hub, and it's fantastic. Anyone want to move to Chicago with me? I love it here.

But I also wanted to just say that I am thankful for so much, and I am grateful for this time of year! Holiday season can bring out the best in everyone, and I am really trying to be the best person I can! And celebrate the reason for the season! Love you all and hope that you have a fantastic Turkey Day! Eat loads of turkey for me!

Sweet Deal!!!

2009-09-17T14:04:00.002-06:00

I thought I would share my good news, cuz I'm kind of in shock! So I have started my EMT class, and oh man it is kicking my butt!!! But I love it. Well the bookstore ran out of the textbooks, and I had to wait for the backordered ones to come in. Well Cherie and I headed to DI, mostly cuz she wanted to check and see if they had a few plays she needed, and some other random stuff's. Well I thought I would check for some cool books, and just on an off chance I checked to see if they had my textbook. Well I found an older edition, which my teacher said was acceptable! So a $77 dollar book only ended up costing me $5!!!! So I splurged and got some other books to read! Man sometimes I love Provo... well really only for their DI, because loads of college students have provided for an awesome book section!

Our Potential

2009-09-11T20:00:00.002-06:00

September 11th is a day that will forever be embedded in the minds of every American, or even every human, who was old enough to understand what happened that day. I know exactly where I was when I heard and saw the tragic moments of that morning. It was my first week of college. And it was my first week of Nursing pre-requisites. I always knew that I loved the Medical Field. (Equally as much as I love theater.)

Now to side step for a bit, I have always wondered if I should be a paramedic or a nurse. I feel Heavenly Father has granted me certain talents, and abilities that make me perfect person for the medical field. On September 11th America saw first hand the work of my heroes. The first responders. Those who put the needs of others before their own needs. I won't say that the first responders were the only heroes, because they most certainly were not. America saw so many heroes in so many forms during that time period, we all turned into better people because that is what we, as a whole, needed. We needed to be better people, we needed to make ourselves useful, to help out in some way. We needed to care for one another, we needed to treat one another as brothers and sisters. Out of this tragedy came so much beauty, in human form. People were their best selves. We became true Christians in every sense of the word. It is beautiful to think of what we can become. Of who we truly are.

As I commemorate this day in our national and personal history, I look at my life so far. I can and should do better, and I know I am better than I once was, but I am no where near where I can and should be. I want to be a person worth admiring. I want to be proud of my work, of my profession, of myself. I want my Heavenly Father to look down on me with love and pride knowing that I am follow in the path I should. I am proud to be an American, I am proud to be training to be a first responder. I am so happy that I am learning skills that can and will help me to save lives.

I'm not sure this post is making any sense, but I am so touched by today, by the memory of those who lived and died in those moments. They were selfless and honorable in the moments that matter most. Can I say the same for myself? I truly hope so, and if I can't yet, I hope to be able to say so soon. I am truly grateful for the love I feel towards my country, and towards humanity. I am so grateful to be alive today. To be constantly growing, and learning, and loving. What a fift life is, what a joy it is to be alive... to deal with everyday things. I don't think I realize how truly important everyday is. I only hope that with this light bulb moment I will grow in heart and mind, and do a little better tomorrow than I did today.

Pictures of My Summer

2009-09-09T15:59:00.002-06:00

So I have been really blessed to just have a good summer, and to truly be happy. So I thought I would share in some of the good times!

I got to go up to Yellowstone and see some of my family! Jenny, Jordan, and Jeff were all up there. Plus a lot of other people that I love. It felt good to support them, and also brought back a lot of good memories!

I also had the chance to support Christian and see the play he was in at the Sundance Theater. I love this picture because my smoothie cup was made of corn! It was so awesomely Hippie that I loved it!

I also found my new favorite restaurant!!! It's a Pirate restaurant! I thought I had died and gone to heaven. We are so going there for my birthday and everyone is invited! Please dress up!

I love this picture because it just shows the craziness that happens at work. This picture was taken yesterday. The owners dog Jackson decided to jump in my lap and then not let me work. If I stopped scratching his back he would start licking me, and pushing my arms away from whatever I was doing, until I would start scratching his back again.... everyone in the office was laughing at me. But luckily Samiee came to the rescue!

And finally I wanted to show some of my favorite purchases from the summer, other than Angus my motorcycle. In Yellowstone Jenny and I happened upon a 3 dollar bin for shirts and hoodies that were messed up, and I fell in love! And then had to get some tacky shirts and souvenirs for friends! LOVE IT! I am so grateful that I have people who understand, appreciate, and share in my sense of humor!

I like a crazy life!

2009-09-09T15:42:00.003-06:00

OK, so I have fallen off the face of the earth, and haven't blogged in quite some time. Well it has been slightly crazy recently. So as usual I have filled my plate to overflowing. I am not going to school to become an EMT. That is on top of working two jobs (which ends up being around 50 hours of work a week) I now am taking 9 credits as well. So I work Monday- Friday from 8-5, then go to school on Tuesday and Thursday from 6-10pm. Then work my second job on Saturday. I know it's crazy, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I will be a certified EMT-Basic by Christmas if all goes according to plan. And then in December I am also taking a course that will certify me as a phlebotomist.

It's a lot to handle, but it feels right. So I will continue on in this course. Also I am looking into graduate schools in London, Manchester, Leeds, and Edinburgh. This time it would be a Master's in Theater. I know... crazy! But that's why you all love me!

My Fantastic Summer!

2009-08-21T11:09:00.004-06:00

Okay... I have fantastic friends and wonderful memories in my life! These are just a few of them! PS I love adventures, and this summers adventures were going to playmill, and the Japanese festival... among other things!

Fantastic! Pray for adventures! It works!

The Books That Are Overtaking My Life!!!

2009-08-05T08:18:00.003-06:00

Okay, so for awhile, I lost my desire to read, that was until my co-workers introduced me to the Stephanie Plum series written by Janet Evanovich. This has to be one of the funniest series I have read. It is so funny, at work, there are giggles from all over the office as we are all at different books in the series. It's awesome! So far as I know there are 15 books in the series, and then 4 inbetween books. And I will admit that I've read the first 8 in a little under 2 weeks. Gulp. Obsessed... I think so! But they're fantastic. And I've come to the point where I think these characters are real. I also have that problem with characters from Bones as well. Ha ha ha....

If you need anything to read... I recommend these! Two thumbs up!

The Power of Art

2009-07-27T09:22:00.003-06:00

So this season of So You Think you Can Dance has been wonderful. I have thoroughly enjoyed quite a few numbers, and I find that I want to share it with all of you. I know that most of you enjoy art in it's many forms, and realize the power and gift of art. I am so grateful to be able to appreciate it's many wonders.

This seasons dances have been some of my most favorite. This post is dedicated to Melissa and Ade's dance this week that was choreographed by Tyce. It is absolutely incredible and left me in tears. I am so glad that they danced it. It needed a woman who carried maturity, and trust in her partner. And it needed Ade's strength and gentle personality. It truly was inspiring.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_TCK5OCgss&feature=PlayList&p=6EA793E24AD0A0DD&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=35

Summer Fun

2009-07-09T15:37:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago Christian turned the big 30! So we had our very own sushi bar to celebrate. We had all sorts of ingredients, and then created our very own sushi surprises!!!

I love that Christian had a seaweed flavor savor!! Priceless!

Kjersti was in love with the wasabi the whole night, so on a dare she put some on an Oreo... her reaction was priceless...so I had to document it!

There really wasn't much of a point in this post except to say that I love my friends, and have had way too much fun just hanging out and being ridiculous with them!

Counting my Blessings

2009-07-07T08:36:00.004-06:00

So it has been quite a while since I have posted anything, and to be honest it has been a hard month. I don't like to harp on it, because I have survived, and things are starting to improve. I just wish it wouldn't be so draining... but I will not dwell on that. Even though it has been hard, the Lord continues to show me that I'm not alone, He knows me, and that His tender mercies are everywhere.

I know that when I focus on all the blessings in my life I feel my burden lighten. And I also felt impressed to share some of these experiences... and I don't know why... but I know I will.

The first experience happened on Friday. Friday Cherie had a bunch of her family and friends at our place and we were filming a commercial for a contest she was entering. Now she needed to take her nieces to target afterwards to get them their prizes. They were in another commercial she shot, and it won, and so they get prizes. Well on our way the youngest girl, Ione (I really don't know how to spell it... but her nickname is noney... again spelling) told us that she learned about repentance... and to hear such a simple definition come from her mouth... it was beautiful. We asked her more questions and sure enough she knew it was true. It almost brought tears to my eyes.

This is one of my favorite pictures of the girls and Cherie. It puts a smile on my face.

The next experience happened on Sunday. Sunday morning I had the privilege of witnessing the baby blessing of Alex, my old roommate Lisa Relf (now Jones)'s baby. It was so incredible to see the love and adoration there between her and her husband, and also with this little baby they now have. It just all came crashing down on me that THIS is what it's all about. Family. The eternal nature of it, and the importance of it. I mean I know I knew it before but this was just such a wonderful wake up call. It was so beautiful to see Lisa holding her little boy, and holding on to her husband. I always knew Lisa would be a wonderful wife and mother, and I know she is. But it was just so moving. I felt so blessed to witness that.

I feel so blessed to be a part of this gospel. To know what I know. I feel so blessed to be able to witness tender mercies, and small miracles on a regular basis. I know that if I were to open my eyes and truly see my life, I would see the hand of the Lord guiding me and shaping me. I feel so blessed when I get to see those glimpses of eternity. It's amazing... and it's all true.

I'm sorry I didn't write for awhile, but I promise I will more. I have some fun pictures and things to share from Christians sushi night party! I will do that soon! Love you all!

Why do I need to be an adult!

2009-06-17T09:14:00.003-06:00

Just when you think life is great... it goes and smacks you in the face! Sometimes I wish I were a kid again and didn't have to think about money problems. I really don't feel like venting, but I don't like having all this anxiety built up in me. I know this will sort itself out, I just need to be better at budgeting. I just can't believe it's $420 bucks to register my bike! I really wish money could grow on trees. Just enough to help me pay all my bills!

Luckily I know the Lord is here, for all my trivial problems, and to help guide me in the right direction. I love how the scriptures are truly a communication tool. I was reading in Mosiah the other night... and came across one of my old favorites. I hit me for the first time when I was reading and praying over an investigator... but it seems to have helped me continually.

Mosiah 24
"13 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.
14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions."

The Jagger Clan!

2009-06-16T13:12:00.003-06:00

"The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities."
-The Family: A Proclamation to the World

I just really wanted to share how much I love my family. I do not gush about them enough. They are truly incredible. I have learned so much from them, and the more I know them and spend time with them, the more I want most of the qualities they possess.

The Head of The Household!

First my Dad. He is so honest and honorable. A gentle giant. I love my Dad so much and I truly hope I can gain his temperament. He truly loves and cares for his family and will do anything for them. He is the type of guy who shows his love through service and thoughtful small presents. He's also a man of integrity, and has taught me many of life's lessons by his own example.

The Heart of the Family!

Then there's my Mom. Oh man we are so alike. My favorite thing in the whole world is to make her smile and laugh. When she laughs she lights up the whole room. She is always thinking of ways she can bless the family, and help out. She has the most faith I have ever seen in a human being, and is so close to the Spirit. (Even before she or I joined the Church.) She also has the biggest heart. Once she meets you she loves you and thinks of you as part of the family.

(PS.. it's really hard to get a picture of her!)

Then there is my sister Kari!
My sister is one of the most caring individuals I have ever met. She serves and loves all those around her. And she is incredibly loyal and kind to all her friends and loved ones. She has the best sense of humor as well!

I am so grateful for my family! I love them so much, and I don't tell them enough!

Good Times!

2009-06-16T10:07:00.002-06:00

This is a funny picture of Jordan outside of Nelli's house. This was the day of her farewell talk. She made me cry. My baby is all grown up and going on a mission.

This is a picture of Cherie... who I love. We were parked on I-15 for 45 minutes because of a crash. Luckily we made ourselves laugh to take up the time. And had some crazy adventures all by ourselves.

These are some of the people I love. It felt so good to see all of them, I truly felt like I was home. They aren't just friends they're family. And I love that.

Liz and Jenny made up a new game last semester... The Helen Keller game... yes you read that correctly. It was really funny to watch. And I don't remember why exactly Liz is laughing so hard, but I thought this picture was wonderful, and really showed the love of our family.

Cherie's family bought a puppy for her Dad for Father's Day, but we got to puppy-sit on Friday night. And let me tell you how much we want to get one. So so so so so so cute! And I'm not allergic!

The puppy is a Mini American Eskimo, and she'll only get to be about 10-12 pounds. She's 6 weeks old, and is the cutest thing ever. She's so funny, she doesn't think she's small, she thinks she a big dog, and it makes us giggle whenever she tries to wrestle.

So these are just a few pictures of some of the people I love. I just have been feeling so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and incredible memories. I am sorry this post is nothing but mushy-ness, but sometimes I really feel as though you need to share how grateful you are, so people know you are thinking of them, and do love and care about them.

I know we may be far away, but every one of my friends have touched my life, and changed me for the better. I may not be the best with keeping up communication, but I still do love and care for all of you!

SYTYCD is back!!!!

2009-06-11T08:22:00.003-06:00

Okay, so last night was the first night for us to really see the top 20. And oh my gosh I loved it. I am sad there were no Mia Michels numbers, but I was really happy that Wade is back, and I love love love Tabitha and Napoleon.

Alright so my top three couples also had my top three dances of the night. They are:

Randi & Evan
Ashley & Kupono
Philip & Jeanine

but I also love Brandon, and the ballerina. (whose name I seem to have forgotten)

I am so excited the show is back, and it just makes me fall in love with dance all over. I am not a dancer so I have to live vicariously through these dancers, but this season is going to be good!!!!

Now my bottom three are:

Asuka & Vitolio (which breaks my heart because I love them both)
Karla & Jonathan (there not really my fav's... although he has such a cute baby face)
Paris & Tony (I really was hoping Tony would do well, he's cute)

Now we'll see what happens, and if America agrees with me. I know Allison and I seem to be in sync in thoughts.

PS All of my friends who love SYTYCD...I miss you and watching this show makes me miss you!

My New BFF

2009-06-09T08:05:00.003-06:00

Okay, so I haven't blogged in a bit, and mostly it's because of Angus McKay, my motorcycle. He seems to be occupying a great majority of my time.

Yes I named my Motorcycle... well my Dad kind of named him. I was looking for a Scottish name (because I love Scotland and want to be reminded of it daily), and he said Angus, cuz it's beefy. And I thought it was perfect.

Angus and I have been having some adventures, getting me used to riding a bigger bike. I haven't ventured out onto the freeway yet, but I think we will do that this weekend for the SCOTTISH FESTIVAL! I can think of no better way to try out the freeway, then to show Angus his heritage!

I promise pictures will come soon!

Happy Day!!!!!

2009-06-01T20:11:00.001-06:00

Okay so exciting news. The bank accepted my loan application, and I signed all the paperwork tonight, and now get to pick up my bike tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited. Okay, excited and a bit nervous! I just can't believe it actually is happening!!!!! Yeah!!!!

Pictures will follow soon!

November 20th seems so far away!

2009-06-01T15:05:00.001-06:00

Okay so I have to confess that I am totally obsessed with the Twilight world. I have read the books a few times. I really don't want to admit how many times. And I thought I had gotten over my obsession until I watched the trailer for the next movie. Now I can't wait. I think this one will be so much better than the last!

YouTube - OFFICIAL New Moon Trailer - MTV MOVIE AWARDS

The Adventure That Is My Life!

2009-05-29T14:26:00.003-06:00

Okay so this week has been pretty dang funny! Well really it's been the last 48 hours. Alright so on Tuesday I get a text whilst at work. Now before you judge me I usually don't have my phone out at work. But I was especially bored, and it was in my pocket. Well, the text was from Cherie... informing me that her sister-in-law Malae tested positive for Swine Flu, and now is being isolated, but anyone who has had contact with her for the past few days needs to go get tested. So, to make a long story a bit shorter, Cherie came and got me from work (my bosses wanted me to go get tested right then) and we went to the Urgent Care, and got tested. Now I was thinking this was going to be a harmless blood test or a little swab to the back of the throat... no.. I was sorely mistaken. The have a giant Q-Tip and shove it up your nose into your sinus cavity. This was really really awkward and uncomfortable. To make the story better they had Cherie and I in the same room and did the test at the same time, so we had to share in the horror. But to our relief, about 10 minutes later the Dr came in and said we didn't have Swine Flu or Influenza Type A or B. So yeah no Swine Flu!

And then last night I got to test drive the bike that will hopefully be mine by next week. A Honda Shadow Aero 750! Oh it was a beautiful bike, and it rode so nicely. I was in heaven and had a hard time giving the bike back to it's present owner.

Keep your fingers crossed, the bank should let me know if my financing was approved!!!!

Oh and on a bit of fun news! Cherie posted one of her commercials she made for a film competition, and I got to be in it, so it's way fun! I'll try to post the link to it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkiCqx4_Hyo

Goal Setting

2009-05-26T11:30:00.002-06:00

“I am so thoroughly convinced that if we don’t set goals in our life and learn how to master the techniques of living to reach our goals, we can reach a ripe old age and look back on our life only to see that we reached but a small part of our full potential. When one learns to master the principles of setting a goal, he will then be able to make a great difference in the results he attains in this life.”
– ELDER M. RUSSELL BALLARD
TALK GIVEN TO SALT LAKE AREA YOUNG ADULTS,
OCT. 18, 1981
(Preach My Gospel, Chapter 8)

Okay so recently I have decided that my life was to stagnant. I didn't like that I wasn't progressing, and too scared to move forward, for fear of failure. I came to realize that in not doing anything I was failing.. failing to reach my potential, and failing to truly live my life. I didn't think I was a big worrier, but somehow over the last year I became a massive worrier, and became way too boring for my own good. So I decided to set some goals.... and here is how they are going...

Get my motorcycle license: Finished the course, and got a 99%. So all I need to do is take the written test at the DMV, and then I will have my license!

Buy a Motorcycle: Done the research, and now need to go to the bank, and dealerships!

Become an EMT: Enrolled at UVU.

I am feeling so good about the direction my life is taking. I don't know if I will succeed in all of my goals... but good heavens, I am going to give it my best effort!

Now the only goal that I am failing at, is being more social in my ward. I really know I should but I just can't get myself to be an active participant of the ward... any ideas?

Loves... New an Old

2009-05-22T09:40:00.003-06:00

Alright... so I am in love with a new show on Fox. It's called Glee. It is the funniest new show I have seen in a long time. I just watched the pilot episode yesterday and it made me miss all my theater friends. The ones from High School, the ones from College. I think this is one show that anyone who loves the arts, or the funny stereotypes of high school will enjoy!

And now for one of my older favorites, that I just forgot until now!!!! Cat Deeley!!!! I forgot how much I love her! And the show. I am so excited for this season. Each season seems to be getting better and better, but I don't know if I can love this season as much as I loved the last. It would be hard to top. But I'm excited that the new choreographers from last season are also back. Like Sonja, and Tabitha & Napoleon. They are the best!

PS THEY ARE DOING A SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE SEASON IN THE FALL!!!!!!!!!!!!! Auditions are now. So all of you dancers that I know should audition!

Books are Awesome!

2009-05-22T08:31:00.004-06:00

Oh my gosh.... I just have to write about how amazing this book is. I mean I won't give anything away, but I absolutely loved loved loved this book. I heard about this book by seeing one of the previews for the movie. And whenever I know a book is based on a movie, I try to read the book before seeing the movie.

So I looked for this book everywhere, and they were sold out everywhere, so I finally bought it on amazon (my new addiction) and tried to wait patiently for it to come. Then I had to decide whether or not I would finish the Chronicles of Narnia series before reading the book. Well I was really struggling with the Narnia books. I know they are suppose to be amazing, but I'm finding the Silver Chair really boring. I mean I loved the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, and I only have two more to go, but I'm struggling. So I decided to put them aside and read the books I'm really excited about first.

Well this book did not disappoint. It caught me in the first chapter, and I just followed the journey of the characters. I really loved it. It was written from each of the characters points of view, which was incredible. The story was beautiful. The ethical questions it brought up were amazing. And most of all I believed it and loved it, and accepted it. I really started to think these people were real, and their struggle was real.

I really would recommend this book to anyone. Of course it is an easier read, and so for all my English major friends, this will be easy, but I really think you will love it. And as for the movie. I am so so excited. If it follows the book pretty well this will be an incredible movie!

I don't know how to download movies on to the blog yet. (I just mastered pictures.) So here is the link to the preview for the movie.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdZZLdjBfCI

Season Finale's

2009-05-15T15:00:00.008-06:00

So there seems to be a death and sickness overload on most, if not all, of my favorite TV shows. This week held most of the season finale's I was interested in.

Starting the week off was House MD. Now I haven't been faithfully watching the show, but I thought I was still in the know about what was going on... but boy was I wrong.... Somehow... in the end House ended up in a mental institution. WHAT???? What happened. But on a good note Cameron and Chase got married... and that makes me happy, but they are such background characters, that it just felt like fluff. Plus I am sure it had to be kind of awkward for the actors, who were at one time engaged in real life, to have their characters marry. It kind of made me giggle.

Then on Tuesday it was the Biggest Loser Finale! Yippee!!! I love that show... but holy crap.... 3 hours for a season finale. That is just cruel! I was surprised to see that Helen won... I was kind of hoping for the lady in green ( I think her name is Julie) since she had won the most challenges and continually lost bigger numbers. But oh well, I guess they are all winners. And I was so proud of the older gentleman (I think his name is Jerry) for totally beating all of those younger players!!! Yeah! And he was only on the ranch for 2 weeks!

I absolutely love that show... it is such an inspiration to me... and helps me see that I have no excuse for not losing my chubby extra pounds!

Next came Grey's Anatomy! Now I missed the first half an hour because I was at the riding school. So instead of watching Bones I chose Grey's Anatomy, because I figured I could still keep up with the drama of Grey's, and I totally didn't want to miss a second of Bones.

Well Grey's Anatomy was AWESOME!!! It was so packed with drama, and love and death.... I was completely satisfied with the season. Now whether or Izzy and George are dead... that was never fully answered. But wow... what an awesome finale. This show just keeps dragging me back. I know... it's ridiculous... but I love it. And I am attached to most of the characters. So yeah... I was pleased, and excited for the upcoming season.

But now I have saved the best for last. BONES IS MY FAVORITE SHOW ON EARTH!!!!!!!!!! I absolutely love it. It is so well written and always seems to grow and develop in and intelligent way.

Now this episode really was for the fans. They brought back all of our favorite characters, and played the emotions we wanted to feel without being unfaithful to the characters that we love. And the final explanation is brilliant. The writers have so much they can go on for the next season. My only plea is this BRING ZACH BACK FOR GOOD. I really don't want to give away more of this... so please please watch it if you haven't seen it yet www.fox.com/bones .

And since all of my favorite shows are now on their summer break, I can start watching my favorite summer show... SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE (dance, dance). I am kind of sad that most of my friends that are as into it as me are far far away... but I am hoping we can still have discussions and talks on our favorites.

So yeah I'm pumped.

But all I have to ask is... why always end shows with death and sickness... why can't we ever have happy cliffhangers... like in season two of bones when you think Hodgins and Angela have eloped. Why can't we have more of that?

And the winner is...

2009-05-14T08:20:00.002-06:00

Okay after much deliberation and research, and a day of bike shopping with Dad.... the bike I am going to buy is......
The Honda Shadow 750 Aero. At first I was afraid it was going to be too big and heavy for me, but then after sitting on it and drooling over it, and handling it... I am at ease that this is the bike for me. I am so excited!!!!

I start motorcycle school tonight, and will have my license and certification by next Saturday! Then it's off to get my bike. I am thinking of buying used, because Honda's hold up for a long time and it will be cheaper. In Provo right now there are about 30 used bikes in the exact model I want... so I am pretty sure I will be able to find one. I biggest issue is whether or not I will qualify for a motorcycle loan from my bank. But I'm not asking for much, and my credit is pretty good, so I am hopeful!

Just thought I should update you all!

Love you!

I need your opinions!!! Help!

2009-05-06T16:46:00.009-06:00

Okay so it has been a dream of mine, for as long as I can remember, to own a motorcycle and be licenced. And I have signed up for classes so that by the end of the month I should be licenced. So that is covered, but here is the big question... which bike to get. I don't want to get one that is too big for me, or to slow. And that seems to be an issue. I want one that will be able to go on the freeway, and not go too slow. So here is what I need from you. I am going to show pictures of the options, and I want your opinion on what you think is best. (It doesn't matter if you don't know anything about motorcycles... I still want your opinion.)

Option #1
VStar Classic 650

It's very pretty, pricey, and bulky, so I think this one is a no... but I think it's pretty. My thing is that it has a smaller engine than the S40, but is bigger, so I'm not sure which is better.

Option #2

The Honda Shadow Spirit. It's a 750cc, so has the engine capacity, but it's a bit bulky and weighty, so I'm not sure I would be comfortable with it for a bit, but I think it's pretty. So it's an option.

Option #3

Suzuki S50

It is a little pricey at $7100, but has a smaller frame, and is lighter than the others of it's power. It's an 800cc, but I am not too impressed with the body. I think it's starting to look like a crotch rocket, which I don't like, but it's an option.

So here is option #4

This is a suzuki Boulevard S40. It is the smallest frame, and yet it is still a 650cc, so it will be ready for the highway. And it is the cheapest, at $4700. So that makes me happy, I am just afraid I will be too big for the bike... well, I will test drive with my Dad, and I see what he says.

Okay so after writing about all of them I think I like the S40 the best, but please tell me what you think!!!!

Evil Little Beasts!

2009-05-05T14:11:00.002-06:00

Alright, I have to confess something kind of embarrassing. I am deathly afraid of snails and slugs. I don't know what it is, and I don't know when this phobia started. But it's real and is makes no sense, but anywhoo it's true.

Well this weekend I almost packed up all my belongings and told Cherie that we needed to find somewhere else to live, because they started an all out war against me.

Saturday I was minding my own business, heading home from work when one started crossing my path from the car to the house, and another one was on the top step watching me head home. Now usually this would have stopped me dead in my tracks and started me screaming... but I was okay, they were small and more than 5 feet away from me. But this was only the beginning. Sunday Kari and I were heading to church and two more were greeting us by our doorstep. One was on the outside wall right by the doorknob!!!!!!!!! I screamed, almost vomited and sprinted towards the car.. only to be halted when another one was on the steps I needed to go on. I screamed again, and this time I tasted a little vomit in my mouth, and I was getting dizzy. I am not joking... I know it's ridiculous, but it's true... it happened!

And I am not the type of girl that gets scared easily... but snails are my arch nemeses. And so tonight I plan on making a salt ring around my apartment so that they can't come in and try to kill me in my sleep. You think I'm joking, but I am totally serious.

Anyway I thought you all might enjoy my crazy fear. Oh and I was safe yesterday and today, I haven't seen a one. But I'm pretty sure I am going to start carrying salt in my bag. Or I need to move to some place where snails cannot live.

Turning over a new leaf!

2009-05-05T11:10:00.002-06:00

So recently I have been getting some huge smacks on the side of the head from the Lord. To try and get me on track... and like me... it is taking me forever to realize it.

These past 5 months have been very straining and full of trials. But I have not been the most pliable in the Lord's hands. I have made this harder than it needs to be, by being overly stubborn and not following promptings or doing those things that I know will lead me to the answer, or to the solution. Mainly because I knew what the solution was going to be, and I didn't like it.

Sorry for being very vague and not explaining very well, but I promise I am getting to the point. So as many of you know I am in love with reading right now, and one of my co-workers had me read "Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea" by Chelsea Handler. She is a fantastic comedian with a wonderfully funny outlook on life. And this book can be vulgar, and not very politically correct, but I love it. I laughed the entire way through, and then realized at the end that I could learn something from this book. She laughs at everything that happens in her life, good and bad, and I can try to do the same.

Now this weekend I had one of the most spiritual scripture studies I have had since my mission. And it really was a wake up call. I reviewed one of my favorite quotes from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf in which he says "You could be upset about it, but you are now obligated to be." And I took that as a motto on my mission, which helped me immensely, but for some reason I forgot it as soon as I needed it here in normal daily life.

These next few months will be difficult, getting myself financially back on track, and budgeting, and saving, and being frugal, but I know that this is what I need to do, and I know that I will be a better person for following that plan. Will it be the most fun... no... will it be the most adventurous... no... does that kind of drive me insane... yeah. But I need to do it, so that my life can be full of adventures and randomness, and not debt.

Life is always full of up's and down's, and I am constantly learning and re-learning life lessons. Usually re-learning them. But recently, even though times really haven't improved much, I have just been enjoying the ride. Enjoying being in the rough patches, the good times, and the not so good times. I am really happy that I can choose how I feel, and how affected I will be by my circumstances and surroundings. I just hope I can continue to remember this motto, because I feel more me, and more the way I should be, when I am following it.

I am not sure that this makes any sense, but I feel a lot better by writing it down and sharing it with the people I love.

All You Need Is Love

2009-04-28T14:15:00.000-06:00

So this past weekend was another fantastic one! Although hectic, it was so worth it. Friday I got off work and then drove to Salt Lake to hang out with the Thorsons (Jesse, Kathleen, Tara, and Dad) and we went out to eat. We had a total meat fest. Eating so much meat, that even now I do not need it! Then we went to the movies and watched "17 Again" which I would recommend for everyone! I know... I didn't' want to like it, but ended up loving it.

Then Saturday Cherie and I ran a 5k for victims of abuse. Neither of us were prepared or well trained, so we tried to whine to each other to get out of it... but in the end we decided to go... which I'm proud of. I ended up running it in a little over 38 minutes. That isn't a fantastic time, but I was very proud, it's the best I have ever done. And to treat ourselves for running, even when we really didn't want to, we took ourselves out to IHOP. Yummy. Then I had to work.

And then came Sunday! Such a fantastic day. Shanelle and I woke up early and drove to Salt Lake City to watch "Music and the Spoken Word" in the tabernacle. We were going to meet the Thorsons there, however they slept in, so it was just Shanelle and I. But oh my goodness it was worth getting up early. I was so emotional and so full of the Spirit. It was something so amazing. Words cannot describe. And then the Thorsons met us at the visitors center, and Dad Thorson treated us to breakfast, and then the random day commenced. And here is picture documentation of the events.

One of the highlights of the visitors center is the Christus statue. I can see it all the time and I am still in awe of the power of it. It's quite humbling. Love it!

Okay so these pictures are in no particular order, so at this point we were playing in the airport, and Jesse and Kathleen were just about to say goodbye to Shanelle, so we were getting sad, and Jesse decided to soothe Shanelle with his voice and sounds. =D

I was playing around with the camera and trying to get cool pictures of flowers and the temple. We all wanted to look at the pretty flowers, and this is one of my favorite pictures I took of the flowers.

More playing around with the flowers, and getting cute pictures of Jesse and Kathleen. I have to say I think they turned out well.

Oh, grandpa decided to join us in the airport, and then tried to get away from us.

The moment Jesse and Shanelle saw this statue they decided they needed to mimic it. Kathleen and I were laughing very hard!

Shanelle had never tried a slurpee before, and as soon as Jesse heard that we ended up at a 7-11. The short of it... slurpee's are good, especially the mutant berry kind.

This weekend just showed me how lucky I am to have my friends. They truly complete me, and I can get through anything with wonderful people like this. I just have a full heart when I think of all the wonderful friends I have. I don't get why I am so lucky to have such blessings!

Sorry for all the cheesiness, but I just want all my friends to know that even if we are far away from one another, I am always thinking of you and thanking the Lord for letting me have such awesome friends!

Best Weekend Ever!

2009-04-22T09:00:00.001-06:00

This weekend was amazing, and I don't know how to put it into words... really I am still in shock. You dream of something for 15 years, and then to actually see it happen... it takes some getting used to.

(And I apologize that in all of these pictures I will look all red faced... I was bawling my eyes out the whole time. From the moment she put on the white jumpsuit, to the closing prayer!)

So Kari and I left Provo at about 5:30 PM on Thursday, and arrived in the Bay Area at 4AM on Friday morning. It is a long drive. Then Friday we just relaxed and enjoyed the 80 degree weather. (I forgot how much I love California weather!) And then I starting preparing the talk I was going to give on the gift of the Holy Ghost the next day AT MY MOM'S BAPTISM! As usual I stressed about it, and studied from too many sources. But is was so much fun to talk about/study the gospel with my Mom for a few hours. Then came the big day. Saturday was the day that we took my Dad out to dinner for his 50th birthday.

I thought this was the coolest card ever! And I knew my Dad would love it. It's the biggest singing card I have ever seen. And so I stuck family pictures in the inside. And judging by his face he loved it too!

Well from dinner we had to run to the chapel to get Mom ready for her baptism. It really didn't sink in that this was all happening until I saw my Mom dressed in her white jumpsuit.

And of course I cried the whole way through. I couldn't even sing the opening song. And then came the moment when they opened the font doors and a huge flood of emotions and memories came swarming back to me. It was the same room where Kari and I were baptised. And now it was our Mom's turn.

Witnessing her baptism was one of the greatest moments of my life.

And we won't even go into the talk. I am not sure what I said. I know it wasn't anything I planned or wrote down. And I was crying the whole way through, so I have no idea if anyone understood anything I said. Oh well. They said it was good, and they felt the Spirit. And really that is all that matters!

And this last picture is one of my favorites. This is my amazing family! We're one step closer to the temple! Now it's just Dad's turn!

Thank you so much for your prayers and thoughts in my Mom's behalf. She really felt strengthened and blessed every step of the way. The gospel is true! Christ lives! And families can and should be together forever! I love you all!

The Talented Cherie Julander!

2009-04-16T15:08:00.000-06:00

Hello friends!

I just wanted to show you some really funny videos that my friend Cherie put together for a SAT vocab commercial contest. Thought you might enjoy them. I laughed my head off when I first saw them!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMOqAlYJz2o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPYkLnicxc4

I feel so lucky to have such talented people to be around and call my friends!

Personal Joy

2009-04-08T18:49:00.000-06:00

Okay, so here are my amazing parents! Now the reason for this post is mainly about my Mom, but before we get to this point I need to do a little background work. And I also need to add a disclaimer. I usually do not discuss my religious views in public domains like this, unless asked first. But most of you know me, and my beliefs. But at this moment my heart and soul are full, and so I need to share with all those I love and care about.

As many of you know I joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints when I was ten years old. To make a long story short, I was an overly curious little girl, who wanted to know the answers to everything; this includes religion. So when I was 9 I started wondering about those soul searching questions.... why are we here?... where do we come from?... what is the purpose of life?... and where do we go when we die? Now my parents are absolutely amazing, and they told me they didn't know the answer to those questions, but when I found out I should tell them. I then told them I was going to go to church. And I proceeded to do that... with any of my neighbors or friends who would let me tag along. Well after awhile I was burned out on that idea, and I didn't find what I was looking for. At that time a Mormon family moved in next door to me, and next thing I know I became best friends with them, and went to church with them. And three months later I was baptised; a month before my 10th birthday. And 15 years later here I am.

Now back to my parents. They have always been so opened minded; I mean they let both of their children follow their hearts and join a church, and a faith that they didn't know much about. Well I mean they have participated in a bunch of activities, and are up to date on all the Mormon lingo, however, they themselves have never felt the pull to join, or to question more.

That was until recently. When my parents came to Scotland to pick me up from my mission they were truly touched by the Spirit. They loved the latter-day saints there, and felt at home in the church there. And upon coming home my mum in particular has started asking questions. Has started having the missionaries over, and has come to church. Now I was doing all I could to not get my hopes up, or push to hard, or make this about me. I mean this is her decision, and her choice. Well over the last two months she has been telling me all about what she is learning as she is studying the gospel principles book, and the scriptures, and telling me how at home she feels in the ward, and how much she loves going to church and feeding the missionaries, and all that Mormon-y stuff. Then I get a call on Saturday right after General Conference, and she tells me that she has been so touched by the Spirit, that she knows she needs to get baptised!!!!!!!!!!

Now I was in shock... I had been wishing for this for 15 years, and now to hear those words come out of my mothers mouth..... I couldn't believe it. So she stopped smoking and has been going strong for 4 days. She relapsed for a second, and lit up one cigarette, but is now back on board. Her baptismal date is set for April 18th.

Now the reason I am sharing this other than just spreading the joy, is to ask for all of your prayers on her behalf. Her name is Cheryl Jagger. And to show my support in her quitting smoking I have given up all desserts and sweets until the day of her baptism. (I think that will be good for me because I am quite addicted to chocolate!) I can't even imagine the struggle she is going through trying to kick that habit. I just know that she is strong, and in the strength of the Lord she can make it through this hard time. To think of her dressed in white, and being cleansed of all her burdens and sins and hardships, it brings tears of joy to my eyes. I know the gospel of Jesus Christ is real, and working in my life, and in the lives of all those I love. I know that it is through the atonement of Jesus Christ that we can be cleansed and healed. And it is through trying to become more like Him, and bringing out will in line with His that we find pure and everlasting joy. I am so grateful for the gospel being restored on the earth today. I know Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God, who was the instrument in the hands of the Lord in bringing the priesthood power back on the earth; that gives us the opportunity to be together as a family for eternity. I am eternally grateful for that knowledge and the peace it brings in my life. I will continue to work my hardest to be worthy to be with my family for eternity.

This Months Readins!

2009-04-07T10:50:00.001-06:00

Okay, so I've been really enjoying the Chronicles of Narnia. I just finished "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," as well as "The Horse and His Boy". Both are fantastic. And I can't wait to read Prince Caspian, and the others of the series. I just have to find them. I bought the first three books of the series at a used book store in California. I will be back there in a few weeks, and will need to pick up the others in the series.

With those finished, and waiting for the next in the series I have started a few books, not knowing which one I would like more. I am two chapters into "The Almost Moon" by Alice Sebold, and one chapter into "The History of Joseph Smith" by His Mother, Lucy Mack Smith. I really know I am going to like the book on Joseph Smith, but I know it will take me a while to read it. I don't imagine it is one I can rush through, and I don't think I'd like to do that.

Now as for "The Almost Moon, " to be honest I find it quite disturbing, and I'm not sure I will like it, but I feel compelled to read on. So we'll see how it goes.

You have some splainin to do!

2009-03-30T15:42:00.001-06:00

Ok... how does everyone get such a cute blog!!! I have no idea how to do that! Please Help!

What is a Sister to do?

2009-03-30T14:23:00.000-06:00

So... I have a few ideas and questions tumbling around in my head right now, and I'm not too sure what is right to do...

The basic back story is simple: My little sister moved in with me from California back around Christmas time. Now since then she has been searching the web and scouring the town for a job... any kind of job. She really is trying hard... the problem is.. she is very shy... and not as proactive or agressive as I am in searching for a job. So now it has been over three months, and I am the only source of income. It is draining and stressful, and I am at my wits end as to what to do. I can't continue to afford this and still maintain good credit.

The only problem is I cannot give her advice... she get's mad and shuts off. So I don't know how or what to do.... I need any ideas or help!

A Full Heart!

2009-03-26T16:11:00.000-06:00

Do you ever have moments where your heart is just full? When you feel too much?

Well I have been having that all this week. And some of last week. It started with going to the temple... with a lot on my brain and plate... and then that wonderful peace overcoming me... and i just felt too blessed... why out of all the people on the earth, why do i get to be one of the blessed few who get to enter the Lord's house and be near to Him there?

Then it just continued with my wonderful wonderful friends. I love that I can be away from them for too long... and then when i see them again, it is like no time has passed and we just pick up where we left off. For example last week I was able to go to Kjersti's production of Alice in Wonderland... and it was such a great experience... to just spend time with her. (On a side note, one of my favorite moments of that night was to watch Kjersti walk on stage... not as a part of the show... but to steal Alice away for a moment to change her mic pack... pure genius... and freaking hilarious!) But I love that girl, and I realize that I need to spend more time with her.

And then this week to just receive several surprise phone calls from friends that I love who were just checking up on me and just thought to call... I just feel too loved. And finally last night Cherie and were able to watch Shanelle's production of "The Yellow Boat" and it brought me to tears... one because it's just a great show... second because I could see how much Shanelle had put into the production, and how much her kids loved her.... and finally because it just brought back so many memories of being in that production and the wonderful friends I got to work with on it. I was all teary eyed... and not just from the leaky eye.

Sorry for being all sappy but I thought I'd spread the love!

PS... I am super excited to be in Rexburg this weekend... to spend time with those I love! Oh man I feel like I'm coming home!

Love Love Love
xoxoxoxo

Good Readins

2009-03-11T09:34:00.000-06:00

I am going to let you in on a little secret of mine... I am afraid of book clubs. I don't feel that I know enough, or am smart enough to share my opinions of books that I have read. So I read books and then tell the ladies at work what I thought of them.

Well the two most recent books I have read have been "The Historian" by Elizabeth Kostova, and "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" by Mark Haddon. I loved both books for different reasons, and I highly recommend them to book lovers.

I liked the Historian because I enjoyed the suspense and also the history taken into account in the book. I know that it is a fictional work, and that the author does take some liberties in her writing, but the book does inspire some curiosity into the subject and the countries it mentions. I loved the details of this book as well. It took Kostova ten years to write the book, and I can see why. I raved about it so much that one of my co-workers bought it, and is reading it as we speak!

I am not sure what to say or how to describe The Curious Incident... it was so eccentric and wonderful. I loved that the author was British, and that the setting was England. And I loved the main character Christopher. He is such a strange boy, and yet you completely went into his world, and understood his point of view, as well as those around him. For anyone who has not read this book I would recommend it. Here is what it says on the back cover of the book
"Christopher John Francis Boone knows all the countries of the world and their capitals and every prime number up to 7,057. He relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He cannot stand to be touched. And he detests the color yellow. This improbable story of Christopher's quest to investigate the suspicious death of a neighborhood dog makes for one of the most captivating, unusual, and widely heralded novels in recent years. "

Yeah for reading!!!!

Talented Friends!

2009-03-09T14:19:00.000-06:00

Okay, so this weekend I helped Cherie with a commercial contest she is entering in. And I was lucky enough to be in the second one. She hasn't finished working on that one yet.. but she posted the first and I think everyone should see it! And I am not smart enough to know how to put the video on my blog, so i will try and post the link!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQqxSKeU1_o

Please enjoy!

Procrastinating!!!!

2009-03-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

OK... I just need to gripe for a second... and then I will be done and be responsible and file my taxes.... but i just don't want to!

Here's my complaint! I worked for 5 different jobs over the year and I worked in three states over the last year and so I will have to file under three states...

And then on top of that... when I was in school I received scholarships and grants... so I am afraid that I will end up having to owe money to the government... which I don't want to do.

So my fears are ruling me for a second.. and I am doing nothing.

Right... now I'm done!

Sorry for having to witness that!