I know I am so far behind. It is not only my blog that is suffering. I found myself busy with Christmas and the new year, Leah's birthday and now her baptism. My church calling is still a little demanding as well as the family. Not to mention my house is a mess and only a few rooms get clean at a time.
I am checking in to let you know I'll be back...hopefully soon. It would be sooner if I thought Blogger would be fast at uploading pictures.
And maybe I can find a way to make my family more mad at me. I'm on a roll (apparently).
WoHoo! Happy New Year, Everyone!
Showing posts with label opinion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label opinion. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Sunday, December 11, 2011
I love you
It's interesting to me that there are so many ways to express love to someone. Sometimes, we find it really easy to say those words or make ourselves understood. Other times, it is really a puzzle to figure out how to make ourselves understood.
I think when we find ourselves trying to say we love someone, it's important to wait around a while and see if they got the message. It's possible that they don't receive messages on the same channel that we're sending them.
If you find yourself in that situation, don't sit and wait for the person to flip through the channels until they find the one you're sending your message through. I promise you that they will hear your words, but they won't understand them in their hearts. If you really want to communicate your love, you need to change your channel to match theirs.
Does it seem like I am trying to make a point? Heck, yeah. But I'm getting closer to throwing all the channels out the window instead of pretending that I understand words I hear. That is not my channel you're using!
I think when we find ourselves trying to say we love someone, it's important to wait around a while and see if they got the message. It's possible that they don't receive messages on the same channel that we're sending them.
If you find yourself in that situation, don't sit and wait for the person to flip through the channels until they find the one you're sending your message through. I promise you that they will hear your words, but they won't understand them in their hearts. If you really want to communicate your love, you need to change your channel to match theirs.
Does it seem like I am trying to make a point? Heck, yeah. But I'm getting closer to throwing all the channels out the window instead of pretending that I understand words I hear. That is not my channel you're using!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
It's not your chair anymore!
Because I like a good story...
Imagine:
You buy a dining room set from a stranger, who bought it from someone else a few years before. It's a little worn, but you find it suitable for your purposes and spend a quite a bit of time and money fixing it up.
After you've owned it for some time, you are informed that a friend of the original owner wants that chair because it perfectly matches a dining set he has. They don't want to buy the chair from you; they are demanding that you return it.
Their claim to have a right to make this request is this: It seems that the original owner had promised that chair in this dining room set (along with other furniture pieces in his home) to his son. In the drafting of their argreement for transfer of goods, the desired chair was accidentally omitted and neither party caught it. This intent to deliver the chair is binding enough that it transfers to you (several owners later) and you are obligated to comply.
Now you have to give back the chair you paid for and invested time and additional resources in because they made a mistake in the drafting the original agreement to transfer goods.
Not only is this the case, but you also have to pay shipping and handling to send it to them.
Is there a sane person on the earth that would support that? What would be your response?
Imagine:
You buy a dining room set from a stranger, who bought it from someone else a few years before. It's a little worn, but you find it suitable for your purposes and spend a quite a bit of time and money fixing it up.
After you've owned it for some time, you are informed that a friend of the original owner wants that chair because it perfectly matches a dining set he has. They don't want to buy the chair from you; they are demanding that you return it.
Their claim to have a right to make this request is this: It seems that the original owner had promised that chair in this dining room set (along with other furniture pieces in his home) to his son. In the drafting of their argreement for transfer of goods, the desired chair was accidentally omitted and neither party caught it. This intent to deliver the chair is binding enough that it transfers to you (several owners later) and you are obligated to comply.
Now you have to give back the chair you paid for and invested time and additional resources in because they made a mistake in the drafting the original agreement to transfer goods.
Not only is this the case, but you also have to pay shipping and handling to send it to them.
Is there a sane person on the earth that would support that? What would be your response?
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Nothing to do
It really bugs me that people think I don't do anything since I am home with the kids all day.
I keep getting "stood up" by folks who apparently think that it's no big deal if they don't show.
Well, guess what, people: there are certain things I can't get involved in or places I can't go if I'm expecting/waiting for you to call and say you are on your way!
Besides, it's just a matter of courtesy...no matter how busy you think I am.
__________
I know you are thinking - she doesn't post anything good on her blog in forever and when she finally does, it's to complain. It's kind of how it feels like things are going. I feel pretty grumpy about some stuff. I haven't felt like interacting with anyone virtually since I haven't really been interacting well in real life.
Anyone else feel like they've disappeared into their life? I miss being me (Arlyn, -not Mommy or wife or R.S. Sec.).
I keep getting "stood up" by folks who apparently think that it's no big deal if they don't show.
Well, guess what, people: there are certain things I can't get involved in or places I can't go if I'm expecting/waiting for you to call and say you are on your way!
Besides, it's just a matter of courtesy...no matter how busy you think I am.
__________
I know you are thinking - she doesn't post anything good on her blog in forever and when she finally does, it's to complain. It's kind of how it feels like things are going. I feel pretty grumpy about some stuff. I haven't felt like interacting with anyone virtually since I haven't really been interacting well in real life.
Anyone else feel like they've disappeared into their life? I miss being me (Arlyn, -not Mommy or wife or R.S. Sec.).
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Life
I've been busy living it. Not necessarily living it up, but I think just living is good enough sometimes.
We've been dealing with fevers and coughing and runny noses for the past 10+ days now. Six kids means a lot of little germs are simply traveling back and forth. Leah has been sick most of those days. She missed a bit of school and even went to school with a fever today just to avoid staying home again! I finally decided she did need the Rx for antibiotics and she started that this evening. I hope it works quickly.
Sarah had a bout of pink eye with an ear infection. We had that diagnosed after two days of torture; she wouldn't be happy for anything! Now she just thinks she should be held, but at least she's not twisting in my arms and crying all day. She had a fever all day yesterday even though she has been on her own antibiotic since Sat. Nothing is going to be easy, I see.
Lest you think I need to fumigate (which I probably do), this nastiness is going around. We're just one sorry family in a long line of sorry families.
Our computer committed suicide last week. I guess it had become attached to the germs (viruses) it had and didn't want to go on living without them. Unfortunately, we had bought the machine from a friend and had no product keys to anything. It's all lost and we have a new tower en route this week. Thankfully, the shop was able to save our hard drive. I SO don't want to have to retype the entire ward directory!
The Sunday School lesson coming up is on Matthew 13, which includes several parables. As of late, I've been thinking of the parable of the wheat and tares a lot. I guess most people believe it symbolizes believers verses non-believers. Other people may say it symbolizes church members verses non-church members. I am thinking it goes deeper. I can see its applications within the church members themselves. I keep running into folks who live conditionally in their religion. I'm speaking specifically LDS church members, but I suppose you could see the same situations in all religions.
I am trying not to keep my covenants conditionally. I have seen areas that I need a lot of improvement in. I think I have been pretty honest with myself, though, and have been through a bit of refining. As long as I keep moving forward, right?
This is a pretty vague testimony, I realize. I'm not looking to start a fight...just sharing some of my thoughts lately.
So tomorrow is another day. I hope we're fever-free, but I'm learning not to count on it. We'll be going Visiting Teaching, fevers or not. And Daniel has an ortho appt. I'll fake trying to have a clean house and will probably end up holding Sarah a lot and telling Joseph it's not snack time yet - at least once every two minutes.
St. Patrick's Day is Thursday (that isn't news to anyone, I'm sure) and I've made the kids some shirts to wear. I'll post pictures of those and some other shots we've collected along the way to try to liven up this blog.
We've been dealing with fevers and coughing and runny noses for the past 10+ days now. Six kids means a lot of little germs are simply traveling back and forth. Leah has been sick most of those days. She missed a bit of school and even went to school with a fever today just to avoid staying home again! I finally decided she did need the Rx for antibiotics and she started that this evening. I hope it works quickly.
Sarah had a bout of pink eye with an ear infection. We had that diagnosed after two days of torture; she wouldn't be happy for anything! Now she just thinks she should be held, but at least she's not twisting in my arms and crying all day. She had a fever all day yesterday even though she has been on her own antibiotic since Sat. Nothing is going to be easy, I see.
Lest you think I need to fumigate (which I probably do), this nastiness is going around. We're just one sorry family in a long line of sorry families.
Our computer committed suicide last week. I guess it had become attached to the germs (viruses) it had and didn't want to go on living without them. Unfortunately, we had bought the machine from a friend and had no product keys to anything. It's all lost and we have a new tower en route this week. Thankfully, the shop was able to save our hard drive. I SO don't want to have to retype the entire ward directory!
The Sunday School lesson coming up is on Matthew 13, which includes several parables. As of late, I've been thinking of the parable of the wheat and tares a lot. I guess most people believe it symbolizes believers verses non-believers. Other people may say it symbolizes church members verses non-church members. I am thinking it goes deeper. I can see its applications within the church members themselves. I keep running into folks who live conditionally in their religion. I'm speaking specifically LDS church members, but I suppose you could see the same situations in all religions.
I am trying not to keep my covenants conditionally. I have seen areas that I need a lot of improvement in. I think I have been pretty honest with myself, though, and have been through a bit of refining. As long as I keep moving forward, right?
This is a pretty vague testimony, I realize. I'm not looking to start a fight...just sharing some of my thoughts lately.
So tomorrow is another day. I hope we're fever-free, but I'm learning not to count on it. We'll be going Visiting Teaching, fevers or not. And Daniel has an ortho appt. I'll fake trying to have a clean house and will probably end up holding Sarah a lot and telling Joseph it's not snack time yet - at least once every two minutes.
St. Patrick's Day is Thursday (that isn't news to anyone, I'm sure) and I've made the kids some shirts to wear. I'll post pictures of those and some other shots we've collected along the way to try to liven up this blog.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Christmas 2010
Christmas finally came to our house and the kids were very relieved. We had our Christmas Eve dinner...compliments of Chad (who did all the cooking). But don't think I completely slacked. I set the table!
After dinner, Chad read the Christmas story from the bible while the kids acted it out.
Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus:
Shepherds abiding their flocks:
And lo, and angel:
We had a wild beast in our Christmas story. Sarah has taken to biting. Not good.
Eventually, the shepherds made it to the manger and admired the baby. The 'wild beast' actually ripped the baby Jesus from the manger. I guess she wanted to play with the doll.
Then we cleaned up, had prayer and sent them off to bed. They were threatened with their lives if they came out of bed. We'd already told them that IF (when...we're not so clueless) they got up, they were not allowed to do anything but look. And they couldn't wake us up before 6 AM.
It took us about 2 hours to get to bed. We spent an hour setting up a train system. Then we had to stuff stockings and put Santa's gifts out. We were in bed by midnight, after everything was prepared and we got ourselves ready for bed.
I don't really know when the kids got up to peek, but Daniel said it was right after Chad checked in on them before we went to sleep. I did hear them in the living room right before 6 AM. They watched the clock and as soon as it turned to the magical number, they raced to our room to wake us up.
I had to wake up Sarah. She didn't handle the transition well.
The train was a big hit. I'd found someone selling it and talked them down, included a little barter and cash and now have hours of entertainment that fills more than 3 storage bins. (All I was really looking for was a small train set for Joseph, but she made me a WAY better deal on the whole set than she was offering for just a little train.)
While the kids played, I made cinnamon rolls. (Here is what I look like when I'm rudely awoken before dawn!)
After breakfast, the trains were cleaned up and we dumped out our stockings. Sarah loved the phone she found in hers.
Then it was time for presents. Grandma made the boys bathrobes. Daniel really liked his.
The girls got dresses from Grandma. Sarah's came with a little pair of panties. She immediately put them on!
It didn't take this little elf very long to get the hang of opening presents. Eventually, she just opened whatever package she got a hold of. This one happens to really belong to her.
And after a while, the morning got to be too much for Sarah. We found her under the couch. Every girl needs her time out!
The girls got a little sewing machine from Santa. Actually, Santa had been given this thing a few years back and pulled it out for the girls this year. It has been decided that Santa was a little cheap because the machine really doesn't work.
It was a good day and the kids were grateful for what they received. They each gave a coupon for service to every member of the family (excluding Sarah) and some of those have already been redeemed!
I work on Christmas throughout the year and everything under the tree is paid for. If it's something we'd likely get the kids anyway, and it can wait until Christmas (i.e., new clothes) we wrap it up and put it under the tree. If it can be added to something they already have, it will likely be a Christmas present. The kids wrap up some of their things for each other and put them under the tree. Santa doesn't wrap his gifts. Stockings have snacks and toothbrushes and band-aids, etc. (This year, there was no candy...for obvious reasons.) I make a few things. And there are a few new toys.
Even after I've said "No" to the kids all season, there are still a lot of things under the tree. So I wonder, should I make less of a big deal during Christmas and just give these things to them during the year? I don't want my kids thinking they're going to get stuff all the time. Do I consolidate more and have them open fewer packages, but with more inside? I feel like Christmas morning is a little too greedy. But I don't feel like we've spent too much money, just given too much.
I read somewhere that one family has a standard for Christmas. Each child gets 4 gifts: want it, need it, wear it, read it. The kids know what to expect and there are no fights (or so they say!). I think that's a great idea. I don't know if I can stream line everything quite so neatly, but it's a good start.
And while I was contemplating the guilt that I always seem to feel when I'm buying Christmas presents for my kids, I came to a liberating decision. Some people may not agree with me. I'm OK with that. What I decided is this:
There are two kinds of Christmas, and they are both good.
The first Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ. To me, there is very little about modern Christmas that really supports this kind of Christmas. Hymns, scripture and testimony are all that are needed to celebrate and teach this Christmas. And really, it should be done all year.
The second Christmas is the merry kind. The glitter, the excitement, the gift giving, the carols, the treats, the stockings and Santa. This is a wonderful time of year to celebrate our loved ones, show them what they mean to us and indulge just a little. Peanut Brittle has nothing to do with Christ, but it's a very important part of merry Christmas!
And so, I will enjoy the merry kind of Christmas along with the birth of Christ. And I won't feel guilty when I'm rushing around delivering gifts that I'm not thinking of the birth of the Savior. But I will use the extra reminder to be grateful for the humble birth that leads to the life of Christ and what it should mean in my life...all year long.
After dinner, Chad read the Christmas story from the bible while the kids acted it out.
Mary and Joseph with baby Jesus:
Shepherds abiding their flocks:
And lo, and angel:
We had a wild beast in our Christmas story. Sarah has taken to biting. Not good.
Eventually, the shepherds made it to the manger and admired the baby. The 'wild beast' actually ripped the baby Jesus from the manger. I guess she wanted to play with the doll.
Then we cleaned up, had prayer and sent them off to bed. They were threatened with their lives if they came out of bed. We'd already told them that IF (when...we're not so clueless) they got up, they were not allowed to do anything but look. And they couldn't wake us up before 6 AM.
It took us about 2 hours to get to bed. We spent an hour setting up a train system. Then we had to stuff stockings and put Santa's gifts out. We were in bed by midnight, after everything was prepared and we got ourselves ready for bed.
I don't really know when the kids got up to peek, but Daniel said it was right after Chad checked in on them before we went to sleep. I did hear them in the living room right before 6 AM. They watched the clock and as soon as it turned to the magical number, they raced to our room to wake us up.
I had to wake up Sarah. She didn't handle the transition well.
The train was a big hit. I'd found someone selling it and talked them down, included a little barter and cash and now have hours of entertainment that fills more than 3 storage bins. (All I was really looking for was a small train set for Joseph, but she made me a WAY better deal on the whole set than she was offering for just a little train.)
While the kids played, I made cinnamon rolls. (Here is what I look like when I'm rudely awoken before dawn!)
After breakfast, the trains were cleaned up and we dumped out our stockings. Sarah loved the phone she found in hers.
Then it was time for presents. Grandma made the boys bathrobes. Daniel really liked his.
The girls got dresses from Grandma. Sarah's came with a little pair of panties. She immediately put them on!
It didn't take this little elf very long to get the hang of opening presents. Eventually, she just opened whatever package she got a hold of. This one happens to really belong to her.
And after a while, the morning got to be too much for Sarah. We found her under the couch. Every girl needs her time out!
The girls got a little sewing machine from Santa. Actually, Santa had been given this thing a few years back and pulled it out for the girls this year. It has been decided that Santa was a little cheap because the machine really doesn't work.
It was a good day and the kids were grateful for what they received. They each gave a coupon for service to every member of the family (excluding Sarah) and some of those have already been redeemed!
I work on Christmas throughout the year and everything under the tree is paid for. If it's something we'd likely get the kids anyway, and it can wait until Christmas (i.e., new clothes) we wrap it up and put it under the tree. If it can be added to something they already have, it will likely be a Christmas present. The kids wrap up some of their things for each other and put them under the tree. Santa doesn't wrap his gifts. Stockings have snacks and toothbrushes and band-aids, etc. (This year, there was no candy...for obvious reasons.) I make a few things. And there are a few new toys.
Even after I've said "No" to the kids all season, there are still a lot of things under the tree. So I wonder, should I make less of a big deal during Christmas and just give these things to them during the year? I don't want my kids thinking they're going to get stuff all the time. Do I consolidate more and have them open fewer packages, but with more inside? I feel like Christmas morning is a little too greedy. But I don't feel like we've spent too much money, just given too much.
I read somewhere that one family has a standard for Christmas. Each child gets 4 gifts: want it, need it, wear it, read it. The kids know what to expect and there are no fights (or so they say!). I think that's a great idea. I don't know if I can stream line everything quite so neatly, but it's a good start.
And while I was contemplating the guilt that I always seem to feel when I'm buying Christmas presents for my kids, I came to a liberating decision. Some people may not agree with me. I'm OK with that. What I decided is this:
There are two kinds of Christmas, and they are both good.
The first Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ. To me, there is very little about modern Christmas that really supports this kind of Christmas. Hymns, scripture and testimony are all that are needed to celebrate and teach this Christmas. And really, it should be done all year.
The second Christmas is the merry kind. The glitter, the excitement, the gift giving, the carols, the treats, the stockings and Santa. This is a wonderful time of year to celebrate our loved ones, show them what they mean to us and indulge just a little. Peanut Brittle has nothing to do with Christ, but it's a very important part of merry Christmas!
And so, I will enjoy the merry kind of Christmas along with the birth of Christ. And I won't feel guilty when I'm rushing around delivering gifts that I'm not thinking of the birth of the Savior. But I will use the extra reminder to be grateful for the humble birth that leads to the life of Christ and what it should mean in my life...all year long.
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Hard Decisions
Have you ever had to make a difficult decision? I have. Some required a lot of prayer. Others even included fasting. Some just included getting advice from friends or family and some serious contemplation.
I was watching a television show this morning that had a 25-year-old semi-celebrity on, talking about her new reality show (and marriage and motherhood). They showed a clip of her show in which she tells her husband that her agent called and told her that Playboy wants her to pose.
This young woman tells the hosts of the show that she's not completely decided if she'll do it or not, but she's leaning towards telling them 'no.' Then she says this is the hardest decision of her life. Really? She's married and has a baby, but this decision is harder?
How far do the morals of this world really have to go before they start coming back up again? And how many good people will be persecuted for making good choices before they will be given the respect and esteem that they deserve? What kind of hard decisions will our children be faced with as they struggle to obey God's commandments while living in a world ruled by degradation of standards and attacks on their precious spirits? It scares me little.
Things are only getting worse and we won't be able to keep a foot in both worlds much longer. I can hear the ticking.
I was watching a television show this morning that had a 25-year-old semi-celebrity on, talking about her new reality show (and marriage and motherhood). They showed a clip of her show in which she tells her husband that her agent called and told her that Playboy wants her to pose.
This young woman tells the hosts of the show that she's not completely decided if she'll do it or not, but she's leaning towards telling them 'no.' Then she says this is the hardest decision of her life. Really? She's married and has a baby, but this decision is harder?
How far do the morals of this world really have to go before they start coming back up again? And how many good people will be persecuted for making good choices before they will be given the respect and esteem that they deserve? What kind of hard decisions will our children be faced with as they struggle to obey God's commandments while living in a world ruled by degradation of standards and attacks on their precious spirits? It scares me little.
Things are only getting worse and we won't be able to keep a foot in both worlds much longer. I can hear the ticking.
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
FASHION SENSEless
I was reading a magazine during breakfast today and came upon an article about one of the latest fashion trends seen on the runway.
Some of you may be utterly shocked. Most of you probably won't be offended.
It is now becoming fashionable to wear socks with sandals. I know! What is going on with people? How can that be OK? And heeled sandals, no less - with ribbed, knit stockings! We might as well walk around with our underwear hanging out. (Oh wait, I've seen that lately...often.)
Honestly, I am glad to see that the fashion snobs have found a way to make it "legal" to commit this one tiny sin, so that those people who are already smart enough to wear socks will get a little break, if not some respect.
With everything important we have to worry about in this life, I find it bizarre that people will judge so harshly based on something so temporary. This doesn't mean that I'm going to let Daniel wear his orange plaid shorts (yes, he does have some) with a red striped shirt (yes, he's tried). There is no need to blind or visually impair other people!
But if someone is clean and covered (we know you have lots of different body parts...we just don't want to have the images burned into our minds), let them wear socks with sandals without smirking behind their back. And if that 20-something girl wants to wear a tutu while she shops at Sam's Club (yep, with my own two eyes), go ahead and take a second look, but don't hold it against her. She's likely a very pleasant person!
Some of you may be utterly shocked. Most of you probably won't be offended.
It is now becoming fashionable to wear socks with sandals. I know! What is going on with people? How can that be OK? And heeled sandals, no less - with ribbed, knit stockings! We might as well walk around with our underwear hanging out. (Oh wait, I've seen that lately...often.)
Honestly, I am glad to see that the fashion snobs have found a way to make it "legal" to commit this one tiny sin, so that those people who are already smart enough to wear socks will get a little break, if not some respect.
With everything important we have to worry about in this life, I find it bizarre that people will judge so harshly based on something so temporary. This doesn't mean that I'm going to let Daniel wear his orange plaid shorts (yes, he does have some) with a red striped shirt (yes, he's tried). There is no need to blind or visually impair other people!
But if someone is clean and covered (we know you have lots of different body parts...we just don't want to have the images burned into our minds), let them wear socks with sandals without smirking behind their back. And if that 20-something girl wants to wear a tutu while she shops at Sam's Club (yep, with my own two eyes), go ahead and take a second look, but don't hold it against her. She's likely a very pleasant person!
Sunday, August 01, 2010
Looking Forward
I have been looking forward to August for some time now. July was a very rough month for me. Actually, it was likely one of my roughest months on record (though I don't know what record that would be).
I think, maybe, my plate is too full. I remember a trip to Duff's (think Chuck-a-Rama) with my Brownie troop when I was about 7 or 8 years old. One of the mothers there loaded her plate so much that it was at least 8 inches high and came to a point at the top. Possibly, it was only 6 inches high, but my young age distorted the truth a bit. Regardless, it was an obscene amount of food and I was appropriately stunned. I was also impressed that nothing was rolling off.
I feel like my "plate" in July was like that woman's lunch plate. The exception is that things were rolling off!
Looking back, I can't recall too many things that stick out as solid reasons why I would feel so completely overwhelmed. Now, don't assume I'm making up trouble...I can remember of plenty of unpleasant experiences. However, I think that I had a little tougher time swallowing the ugliness before a new batch was upon me. Eventually, I was buried.
Of course, motherhood is no walk in the park. You see all the beautiful images of mothers cradling their babies and putting a gentle arm around a child's shoulder. But where are the shots of the baby throwing its head back in a mid-Sacrament Meeting tantrum and nearly crashing to the floor? And why is it when my arm goes around a child's shoulders, it's more likely in an effort to restrain bad behavior?
Then there are the faith-filled stories of enduring to the end and magnifying a calling in such a way to make one think that church service is so simple. Huh. My visiting teaching partner threw me a loop this month and by the time I could try to save the situation, I was going out of town and returned with sick kids. The end of the month slipped away and a very heavy feeling of guilt sat right down in my lap. I had a hard time even getting to the phone and so I made no contact at all. HEAVY guilt.
I absolutely love (read sarcasm here if you haven't already) that one of the temple recommend questions deals with relationships with family members. I seem a target for family problems. Admittedly, I have caused some of them. Others just seem to find me. Every time that question starts coming, I tell myself that I'm trying and that the relationships are on the mend. To be honest, things are at best - stagnant. I have a situation that is suffering from 35 years of problems, but most recently about 15 months. And I'm to the point of not caring anymore. To care is to stress and I've learned that doesn't help. I could lie to myself and say it doesn't matter and that would take care of the issue, but not solve the problem. So I wait for apologies that will never come and try to pretend none of it exists.
But it looks pretty stupid to pretend something doesn't exist when it's in the same room with you.
The last weekend in July was a big family weekend for us. The kids saw every single one of their cousin, plus a few extras. The first stop was an extended family reunion for Chad's dad's family. I was not really looking forward to going. I haven't made any really solid connections here. Most of the family is easy to get along with when we are together, but once we go home, it seems to be a distant memory. Being an in-law is a fairly precarious position! Of course, there is usually someone that doesn't seem to like you...no matter what. It seems I am normal in this case. (Not that it makes me feel any better.) And after 3 days of visiting with that side of the family, we moved over to mine. I've already mentioned how that is going.
I think I put off somewhat of an "I don't care, anyway" attitude. It's a big facade. I do care and it pecks away at me almost constantly. I hate that the situations are so bad and I feel like a failure to try to fix them. Then my pride gets in the way and I am mentally beating my head against the wall.
So anyway, July was less than stellar. I don't want to repeat it. I'm trying to concentrate on the things that my little family needs the most and trust that the other issues will still be there when I'm able to honestly deal with them.
In Sunday School today, the discussion was on being a good leader and the topic got around to parenting (a little something I'm stressing over). Someone I admire and respect mentioned that the environment has to be pleasant to get pleasant results...or something to that effect. That makes a lot of sense. And that could explain some of the failures we've been having. I haven't been that pleasant. I am going to have to be better.
So here's to August! RIP to July.
I think, maybe, my plate is too full. I remember a trip to Duff's (think Chuck-a-Rama) with my Brownie troop when I was about 7 or 8 years old. One of the mothers there loaded her plate so much that it was at least 8 inches high and came to a point at the top. Possibly, it was only 6 inches high, but my young age distorted the truth a bit. Regardless, it was an obscene amount of food and I was appropriately stunned. I was also impressed that nothing was rolling off.
I feel like my "plate" in July was like that woman's lunch plate. The exception is that things were rolling off!
Looking back, I can't recall too many things that stick out as solid reasons why I would feel so completely overwhelmed. Now, don't assume I'm making up trouble...I can remember of plenty of unpleasant experiences. However, I think that I had a little tougher time swallowing the ugliness before a new batch was upon me. Eventually, I was buried.
Of course, motherhood is no walk in the park. You see all the beautiful images of mothers cradling their babies and putting a gentle arm around a child's shoulder. But where are the shots of the baby throwing its head back in a mid-Sacrament Meeting tantrum and nearly crashing to the floor? And why is it when my arm goes around a child's shoulders, it's more likely in an effort to restrain bad behavior?
Then there are the faith-filled stories of enduring to the end and magnifying a calling in such a way to make one think that church service is so simple. Huh. My visiting teaching partner threw me a loop this month and by the time I could try to save the situation, I was going out of town and returned with sick kids. The end of the month slipped away and a very heavy feeling of guilt sat right down in my lap. I had a hard time even getting to the phone and so I made no contact at all. HEAVY guilt.
I absolutely love (read sarcasm here if you haven't already) that one of the temple recommend questions deals with relationships with family members. I seem a target for family problems. Admittedly, I have caused some of them. Others just seem to find me. Every time that question starts coming, I tell myself that I'm trying and that the relationships are on the mend. To be honest, things are at best - stagnant. I have a situation that is suffering from 35 years of problems, but most recently about 15 months. And I'm to the point of not caring anymore. To care is to stress and I've learned that doesn't help. I could lie to myself and say it doesn't matter and that would take care of the issue, but not solve the problem. So I wait for apologies that will never come and try to pretend none of it exists.
But it looks pretty stupid to pretend something doesn't exist when it's in the same room with you.
The last weekend in July was a big family weekend for us. The kids saw every single one of their cousin, plus a few extras. The first stop was an extended family reunion for Chad's dad's family. I was not really looking forward to going. I haven't made any really solid connections here. Most of the family is easy to get along with when we are together, but once we go home, it seems to be a distant memory. Being an in-law is a fairly precarious position! Of course, there is usually someone that doesn't seem to like you...no matter what. It seems I am normal in this case. (Not that it makes me feel any better.) And after 3 days of visiting with that side of the family, we moved over to mine. I've already mentioned how that is going.
I think I put off somewhat of an "I don't care, anyway" attitude. It's a big facade. I do care and it pecks away at me almost constantly. I hate that the situations are so bad and I feel like a failure to try to fix them. Then my pride gets in the way and I am mentally beating my head against the wall.
So anyway, July was less than stellar. I don't want to repeat it. I'm trying to concentrate on the things that my little family needs the most and trust that the other issues will still be there when I'm able to honestly deal with them.
In Sunday School today, the discussion was on being a good leader and the topic got around to parenting (a little something I'm stressing over). Someone I admire and respect mentioned that the environment has to be pleasant to get pleasant results...or something to that effect. That makes a lot of sense. And that could explain some of the failures we've been having. I haven't been that pleasant. I am going to have to be better.
So here's to August! RIP to July.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Pet Peeve
I have several pet peeves, let's just be honest. (People taking the on ramp for the interstate at 40 MPH is one.)
One of my bigger peeves is PEOPLE WHO TYPE IN ALL CAPS FOR SEVERAL SENTENCES LONG AND EXPECT YOU TO BE ABLE TO READ IT JUST AS WELL AS REGULAR TYPING. Even worse are the people that do that and don't include punctuation marks. MIGHTASWELLMAKEITALLONELONGWORD
I know some people say they do that because it's easier. I'd just like to throw something out here...LAZY! Once you learn how to use your keyboard, your fingers find that 'shift' button all by themselves.
If you're just doing something for yourself and don't intend to inflict your CAPS typing on anyone else, it's fine. But if you're trying to sell me something on Craigslist (for example...eBay, too), don't type it all in caps in one tedious paragraph. It's very hard to read and the details get lost in all the big letters.
Of course, no one who actually does that is likely to read this. Even so, I'm sure it wouldn't change anything.
One of my bigger peeves is PEOPLE WHO TYPE IN ALL CAPS FOR SEVERAL SENTENCES LONG AND EXPECT YOU TO BE ABLE TO READ IT JUST AS WELL AS REGULAR TYPING. Even worse are the people that do that and don't include punctuation marks. MIGHTASWELLMAKEITALLONELONGWORD
I know some people say they do that because it's easier. I'd just like to throw something out here...LAZY! Once you learn how to use your keyboard, your fingers find that 'shift' button all by themselves.
If you're just doing something for yourself and don't intend to inflict your CAPS typing on anyone else, it's fine. But if you're trying to sell me something on Craigslist (for example...eBay, too), don't type it all in caps in one tedious paragraph. It's very hard to read and the details get lost in all the big letters.
Of course, no one who actually does that is likely to read this. Even so, I'm sure it wouldn't change anything.
Monday, March 15, 2010
The Census is coming
There's been a lot of hype concerning the upcoming 2010 Census.
I vaguely remember the 2000 Census. We were living in Las Vegas. A Latina woman came to the door and asked me a handful of questions. I don't even remember what the questions were. And I can't remember if Daniel was born or not (his b-day is 2 June). I told you it was a vague memory! I do remember feeling a little bit of excitement to be part of the process. I was being counted, and not just as a child in a household. This was a sure sign of independence! (OK, maybe it wasn't THAT momentous, but you get the idea.)
I can't believe that it's been a whole decade since the last census. I don't feel like I've gotten that much older. But now we've got more than a handful of kids and a whole lot more pages of journal entries. So I guess time does go on.
But back to my point of this post. I've heard the PSA's from the government agencies encouraging the populations to fill out their census forms and send them in. Individual cities are begging their residents to cooperate in order to get their full funding possibilities.
Then I hear the other side. I think this side is mostly "anti-government." (I've yet to hear an opinion from a middle-of-the-road source.) These people are crying foul and claiming this census is against the constitution, that the big shots are getting too nosy and it's no one's business what color their skin is. Apparently, Rush is telling everyone to write AMERICAN where it asks for race.
Through all the arguments and complaints, I constantly think of all the census records I've searched through while doing genealogy. While I want to beat the tar out of the workers with bad handwriting, I've been very grateful for the information that's been on the forms. I'm glad to know that THIS particular "John Doe" was from Norway because I'm looking for "John Doe" from Sweden. And it's been very helpful to have the ages of their whole households so that I can be sure I'm following the right person throughout the years. The fact that they worked for a certain business (ex. railroad) is not only helpful to trace the family, but it's also great for family history stories.
So when the 2010 Census comes to my mailbox, I'm not going to write any of my own answers. I'm making no statement to anyone who cares when I refuse to tell them I'm a white female, aged 36 years. I have a SSN...it's already "out" there.
If the questions start to get too personal, and I haven't seen anything to prove either way, I may decline to answer. But it would have to be a really personal question. Instead, I'll be thinking, what will my grandchildren's children (if the 2nd Coming hasn't come by then) need or want to know about me.
I'm more worried about the cranky guy down the lane who wants to sue than the government finding out too much about me.
I vaguely remember the 2000 Census. We were living in Las Vegas. A Latina woman came to the door and asked me a handful of questions. I don't even remember what the questions were. And I can't remember if Daniel was born or not (his b-day is 2 June). I told you it was a vague memory! I do remember feeling a little bit of excitement to be part of the process. I was being counted, and not just as a child in a household. This was a sure sign of independence! (OK, maybe it wasn't THAT momentous, but you get the idea.)
I can't believe that it's been a whole decade since the last census. I don't feel like I've gotten that much older. But now we've got more than a handful of kids and a whole lot more pages of journal entries. So I guess time does go on.
But back to my point of this post. I've heard the PSA's from the government agencies encouraging the populations to fill out their census forms and send them in. Individual cities are begging their residents to cooperate in order to get their full funding possibilities.
Then I hear the other side. I think this side is mostly "anti-government." (I've yet to hear an opinion from a middle-of-the-road source.) These people are crying foul and claiming this census is against the constitution, that the big shots are getting too nosy and it's no one's business what color their skin is. Apparently, Rush is telling everyone to write AMERICAN where it asks for race.
Through all the arguments and complaints, I constantly think of all the census records I've searched through while doing genealogy. While I want to beat the tar out of the workers with bad handwriting, I've been very grateful for the information that's been on the forms. I'm glad to know that THIS particular "John Doe" was from Norway because I'm looking for "John Doe" from Sweden. And it's been very helpful to have the ages of their whole households so that I can be sure I'm following the right person throughout the years. The fact that they worked for a certain business (ex. railroad) is not only helpful to trace the family, but it's also great for family history stories.
So when the 2010 Census comes to my mailbox, I'm not going to write any of my own answers. I'm making no statement to anyone who cares when I refuse to tell them I'm a white female, aged 36 years. I have a SSN...it's already "out" there.
If the questions start to get too personal, and I haven't seen anything to prove either way, I may decline to answer. But it would have to be a really personal question. Instead, I'll be thinking, what will my grandchildren's children (if the 2nd Coming hasn't come by then) need or want to know about me.
I'm more worried about the cranky guy down the lane who wants to sue than the government finding out too much about me.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
I just want to be popular, don't I?
While I don't blog just for the recognition, I've learned that can be a pretty nice perk. The whole thing started out as a way to keep distant family members in touch with our goings and comings. Eventually, friends near and far started reading and then I picked up a few new friends that only know me through my writing. (I know there are some regulars out there that have never made themselves known.)
So while this adventure started out as a quiet and personal outlet, it grew and I actually liked it. Then, as time went by and I browsed other blogs, I began to feel like the last kid picked for a team during gym class. All these other "Mommy bloggers" had TONS of people following them. I wanted to be liked, too! What was once great was no longer good enough.
Luckily, I kept thinking about it (OK...I was dwelling on it...I'm pathetic), and I realized that I didn't really want the pressure of entertaining the masses. I don't have any great wisdom to share and my stories of poopy diapers or burned bread don't have great appeal. I have been fortunate enough to be spared from any great tragedies that would turn me into an inspirational example for anyone. My kids are normal and just as frustrating as the kids down the street (this is NOT referring to anyone that's REALLY down the street) - who really cares about that? Does anyone really want to know that Daniel was grounded yesterday because the scripture quad falling on Sarah's little head was the last straw? (Too bad if you didn't.)
I also thought of the possibility of someone recognizing me in the store; that was a little unsettling. I'm usually at my worst when I'm shopping and figure that would be a bad place to meet any kind of "fan." Then again, I don't know if that hasn't happened already because I know there are some local readers (who think I don't know they're reading - yes, I see you!). Oh well, I hope they weren't too disappointed.
So, even though I don't have thousands of people following my daily trials and tribulations, success and triumphs, I do have the occasional, "I read your blog" or "You are so funny" said in the halls at church or over the phone. That's good enough for me. Those are the people I know and love (not to mention they already know I'm not perfect)!
So while this adventure started out as a quiet and personal outlet, it grew and I actually liked it. Then, as time went by and I browsed other blogs, I began to feel like the last kid picked for a team during gym class. All these other "Mommy bloggers" had TONS of people following them. I wanted to be liked, too! What was once great was no longer good enough.
Luckily, I kept thinking about it (OK...I was dwelling on it...I'm pathetic), and I realized that I didn't really want the pressure of entertaining the masses. I don't have any great wisdom to share and my stories of poopy diapers or burned bread don't have great appeal. I have been fortunate enough to be spared from any great tragedies that would turn me into an inspirational example for anyone. My kids are normal and just as frustrating as the kids down the street (this is NOT referring to anyone that's REALLY down the street) - who really cares about that? Does anyone really want to know that Daniel was grounded yesterday because the scripture quad falling on Sarah's little head was the last straw? (Too bad if you didn't.)
I also thought of the possibility of someone recognizing me in the store; that was a little unsettling. I'm usually at my worst when I'm shopping and figure that would be a bad place to meet any kind of "fan." Then again, I don't know if that hasn't happened already because I know there are some local readers (who think I don't know they're reading - yes, I see you!). Oh well, I hope they weren't too disappointed.
So, even though I don't have thousands of people following my daily trials and tribulations, success and triumphs, I do have the occasional, "I read your blog" or "You are so funny" said in the halls at church or over the phone. That's good enough for me. Those are the people I know and love (not to mention they already know I'm not perfect)!
Monday, February 01, 2010
More from my Craigslist friend
She's back. I'm actually starting to like reading these.
infent car set pink and gray plade with base name your price
my daughter has out grown her infent car set and i need to get ride of it so i can buy her one that she can fit into it in excellent condition and very cute gray and pink plade name your price but plese offer me a resonable price for it
She also needs some clothes and wants to know "how much you wont for them i cant afforward to alot."
I'm beginning to wish that I had something to offer this girl. Or maybe I'm starting to feel bad for singling her out. She's also looking for "a baby girl high chair." I'm not sure why these things must be gender specific (car seat in previous post included), but it seems important to her. I hope she gets what she needs!
Oooh...now I am feeling bad for her. She'd better really be this bad with her English skills, or else I'm going to feel very swindled! (Even though I haven't even shown her one ounce of charity.)
infent car set pink and gray plade with base name your price
my daughter has out grown her infent car set and i need to get ride of it so i can buy her one that she can fit into it in excellent condition and very cute gray and pink plade name your price but plese offer me a resonable price for it
She also needs some clothes and wants to know "how much you wont for them i cant afforward to alot."
I'm beginning to wish that I had something to offer this girl. Or maybe I'm starting to feel bad for singling her out. She's also looking for "a baby girl high chair." I'm not sure why these things must be gender specific (car seat in previous post included), but it seems important to her. I hope she gets what she needs!
Oooh...now I am feeling bad for her. She'd better really be this bad with her English skills, or else I'm going to feel very swindled! (Even though I haven't even shown her one ounce of charity.)
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Getting out my red pen
I am a critical person. Maybe it's the teacher in me, or I'm just a snob, but I notice spelling and grammar errors. And I seem to notice them everywhere. The most offensive are those from commercial sources. I figure those wishing to make me part with my money should prove to be capable of using it. And sometimes I just assume that the ad or offer is just plain fraudulent if the writing is bad.
I don't usually say much about what I come across online. I especially "play nice" when it comes to casual interaction or any personal blogs. I know spelling and grammar are not every person's strength. I am not perfect, either. But, I am neurotic about it enough to grab a dictionary or check dictionary.com if I'm not sure about my own spelling. Truthfully, I haven't wanted to offend good friends by criticizing their writing. It's just not that important.
That being said, I don't think it would hurt anyone to check into when to use than vs. then or knowing when their is better than they're or there. A really common one is your against you're. So much fun. :)
Anyway, I bring this up because I was browsing my local Craigslist tonight. That is a great place to look for spelling and grammar problems. Some people type too fast. Some people don't proof read after editing. Some people are just missing certain skills. I came across one last week that apparently never learned how to use the word our and resorted to are instead. It was a bit of a challenge to understand what the person was saying at first. Someone else said "in a half" instead of "and a half." There are a lot of shelfs for sale on Craigslist. I could go on. This would be a great source of (bad) examples for a high school English teacher to use in class!
And then there are the ones like this:
Wanted: I need a a girl front faceing car set
i am looking for a car set for my little girl she is out growing her new born car set if you have one that is in great condition not been in a reack please sennd me a picture and let me know how much i cant afforward very much
Is this real? I have to think that this person is actually very smart to make it look like she's so illiterate...therefore (assumably) poor and needy = please take pity on her and give her a car seat. Unless she really does want a set of cars...not likely, though.
This makes me extra determined that my kids pae attention and doo well in skule!
I don't usually say much about what I come across online. I especially "play nice" when it comes to casual interaction or any personal blogs. I know spelling and grammar are not every person's strength. I am not perfect, either. But, I am neurotic about it enough to grab a dictionary or check dictionary.com if I'm not sure about my own spelling. Truthfully, I haven't wanted to offend good friends by criticizing their writing. It's just not that important.
That being said, I don't think it would hurt anyone to check into when to use than vs. then or knowing when their is better than they're or there. A really common one is your against you're. So much fun. :)
Anyway, I bring this up because I was browsing my local Craigslist tonight. That is a great place to look for spelling and grammar problems. Some people type too fast. Some people don't proof read after editing. Some people are just missing certain skills. I came across one last week that apparently never learned how to use the word our and resorted to are instead. It was a bit of a challenge to understand what the person was saying at first. Someone else said "in a half" instead of "and a half." There are a lot of shelfs for sale on Craigslist. I could go on. This would be a great source of (bad) examples for a high school English teacher to use in class!
And then there are the ones like this:
Wanted: I need a a girl front faceing car set
i am looking for a car set for my little girl she is out growing her new born car set if you have one that is in great condition not been in a reack please sennd me a picture and let me know how much i cant afforward very much
Is this real? I have to think that this person is actually very smart to make it look like she's so illiterate...therefore (assumably) poor and needy = please take pity on her and give her a car seat. Unless she really does want a set of cars...not likely, though.
This makes me extra determined that my kids pae attention and doo well in skule!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Entitlement
Before you read this: I try very hard to follow the admonition to support/sustain my church leaders. With differences in personalities, this can be harder at some times than others. As I say this, I may undermine myself in the words that follow. I am still really trying. And I'm trying to apply the story below in my own attitudes and actions. This may be one of those situations that calls me to repentance later. I hope not.
Have you ever felt entitled to something that wasn't otherwise being assigned or given to you? Maybe your nursing baby woke every 1.9 hours in the night and you felt deserving a nap. Or, maybe you'd cut back on junk food all week and felt deserving of the last piece of candy left in the bowl.
What about the time you felt frustrated by a long, horrible day and snapped at your family members? Did you ignore the guilt by saying it wasn't your fault? (I don't actually know anyone who's done this, I'm just thinking up possible scenarios.)
Maybe you brought an extra large bowl of potluck to the ward dinner and decided it was payable in extra dessert. Or, maybe you'd just spent your Saturday morning cleaning the building with a couple other families and you KNOW you worked harder, so when you see garbage in the hallway the next day you decide it's someone else's duty to bend down and pick it up. (After all, you didn't even see it.)
We've all suffered from entitlement at some point. Kids are especially prone to it. Hopefully, as we get older and gain more understanding of life, we are able to have a little more perspective. I know there are some instances in my own life that I am working on.
Yesterday our stake held a special and unplanned (if you call less than 3 weeks' notice unplanned) Stake Conference. Elder Dallin H. Oaks was in the area for leadership training on Saturday and he chose our little stake to spend his Sunday with. Apparently, ours had been the area stake to go the longest without a visit from a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. So the stake began preparing for Elder Oaks' visit as well as President Kim Clark (BYU Idaho) who was accompanying him.
As nearly ANY member of the LDS church can tell you, having a General Authority visit is a big deal; especially an Apostle. The Stake was trying to prepare for a large numer of people and trying to decide how best to handle seating, parking, etc. Among other preparations made, was the decision to ban saving seats. And to go one step further, the outside doors would be locked until one hour before the conference would begin. It was emphasized from the pulpits: NO SAVING SEATS! Be in it or be in a different one.
Personally, I loved this rule. I HATE seat saving. I can't tell you how many times my little ones have gotten ready early and stood waiting outside closed doors only to be relegated to the folding chairs anyway because one sleepy teenager (times 20) is saving the entire row of seats for his family that hasn't even finished breakfast yet. The time this happened when I was pregnant was the worst; I had a lot of self-chastisment to do that time because I was steaming mad and not hearing one word of the talks!
Anyway, we arrived at the church yesterday about 20 minutes before the doors would open. Chad had to usher and was to be there 15 minutes early. The rest of us waited in the car. We weren't there very long before the lines began forming at all 3 entrance doors. I knew there was no chance of us really getting into the chapel and was trying to tell myself not to worry about the mad dash for seats. We were sure to get a place, even if it was in an overflow room. For this reason, I kept the kids in the van until about 5 minutes before the doors would open.
Since I didn't want to take up more space with a baby seat and bulky coats and didn't trust leaving the coats hanging in the appropriate areas (we lost a good coat at the Halloween party that way), we were staying warm until the last minute. It was about 20 degrees after all!
To make a long story shorter and less judgemental (I've revised this post so many times, it's hardly what it started out to be): someone who knew better saved seats for his family.
It will be interesting to learn how this affects his fellow ward members who will be back to regular routines and regular Sunday interactions with him next week.
Note to anyone trying to rise above the general masses: this is not a church of entitlements.
I HATE seat saving. But I admit our seats were nothing to complain about and I lost no energy over the situation this time. Any difficulty I had concentrating can be blamed on my hungry baby and restless cherubs. (And maybe the wiggly 3-year-old in front of me.) ;)
Have you ever felt entitled to something that wasn't otherwise being assigned or given to you? Maybe your nursing baby woke every 1.9 hours in the night and you felt deserving a nap. Or, maybe you'd cut back on junk food all week and felt deserving of the last piece of candy left in the bowl.
What about the time you felt frustrated by a long, horrible day and snapped at your family members? Did you ignore the guilt by saying it wasn't your fault? (I don't actually know anyone who's done this, I'm just thinking up possible scenarios.)
Maybe you brought an extra large bowl of potluck to the ward dinner and decided it was payable in extra dessert. Or, maybe you'd just spent your Saturday morning cleaning the building with a couple other families and you KNOW you worked harder, so when you see garbage in the hallway the next day you decide it's someone else's duty to bend down and pick it up. (After all, you didn't even see it.)
We've all suffered from entitlement at some point. Kids are especially prone to it. Hopefully, as we get older and gain more understanding of life, we are able to have a little more perspective. I know there are some instances in my own life that I am working on.
Yesterday our stake held a special and unplanned (if you call less than 3 weeks' notice unplanned) Stake Conference. Elder Dallin H. Oaks was in the area for leadership training on Saturday and he chose our little stake to spend his Sunday with. Apparently, ours had been the area stake to go the longest without a visit from a member of the Quorum of the Twelve. So the stake began preparing for Elder Oaks' visit as well as President Kim Clark (BYU Idaho) who was accompanying him.
As nearly ANY member of the LDS church can tell you, having a General Authority visit is a big deal; especially an Apostle. The Stake was trying to prepare for a large numer of people and trying to decide how best to handle seating, parking, etc. Among other preparations made, was the decision to ban saving seats. And to go one step further, the outside doors would be locked until one hour before the conference would begin. It was emphasized from the pulpits: NO SAVING SEATS! Be in it or be in a different one.
Personally, I loved this rule. I HATE seat saving. I can't tell you how many times my little ones have gotten ready early and stood waiting outside closed doors only to be relegated to the folding chairs anyway because one sleepy teenager (times 20) is saving the entire row of seats for his family that hasn't even finished breakfast yet. The time this happened when I was pregnant was the worst; I had a lot of self-chastisment to do that time because I was steaming mad and not hearing one word of the talks!
Anyway, we arrived at the church yesterday about 20 minutes before the doors would open. Chad had to usher and was to be there 15 minutes early. The rest of us waited in the car. We weren't there very long before the lines began forming at all 3 entrance doors. I knew there was no chance of us really getting into the chapel and was trying to tell myself not to worry about the mad dash for seats. We were sure to get a place, even if it was in an overflow room. For this reason, I kept the kids in the van until about 5 minutes before the doors would open.
Since I didn't want to take up more space with a baby seat and bulky coats and didn't trust leaving the coats hanging in the appropriate areas (we lost a good coat at the Halloween party that way), we were staying warm until the last minute. It was about 20 degrees after all!
To make a long story shorter and less judgemental (I've revised this post so many times, it's hardly what it started out to be): someone who knew better saved seats for his family.
It will be interesting to learn how this affects his fellow ward members who will be back to regular routines and regular Sunday interactions with him next week.
Note to anyone trying to rise above the general masses: this is not a church of entitlements.
I HATE seat saving. But I admit our seats were nothing to complain about and I lost no energy over the situation this time. Any difficulty I had concentrating can be blamed on my hungry baby and restless cherubs. (And maybe the wiggly 3-year-old in front of me.) ;)
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Poor working chums like us
I just saw an AP article titled, Recovery not as strong as previously thought. Is that actually news to anyone?
I'm pretty sure that anyone who has to get up every morning, turn up the heat, make their own breakfast, drive themselves to a job that they had to find for themselves and share the work space with others just like them, ALREADY KNOWS THAT!
Personally, I don't actually know anyone that this article is news to. But then again, I don't know anyone who doesn't have to sweat their way through this mess that someone else created for them.
I'm pretty sure that anyone who has to get up every morning, turn up the heat, make their own breakfast, drive themselves to a job that they had to find for themselves and share the work space with others just like them, ALREADY KNOWS THAT!
Personally, I don't actually know anyone that this article is news to. But then again, I don't know anyone who doesn't have to sweat their way through this mess that someone else created for them.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Youth is dead
Rebekah had a burning question this afternoon. She asked me if I died when I was a kid. I said of course I didn't die or I wouldn't be alive now, would I? She could see the logic in that (I think) but after the conversation went on a little further, I realized what she had really been asking.
She wanted to know if the KID died. She isn't able to make a connection between childhood and adulthood. After all, it's not like I'm a butterfly and went through a complete rebirth! I told her that I just changed slowly as I got older. I'm not sure she really understood. But then I started pondering her question.
I'm sure a part of me has died since I was a child. The innocence is gone. The wide-scale trust is gone. Much of the wonder is gone. Some of the naivete is gone (much still remains). In some ways I mourn the losses. The scriptures tell us to be more childlike. I have strayed far from that and would like to regain some of the purity and joy that comes with childhood.
But in other ways, I'm glad for the maturity that protects me from the incredible evil that thrives in the world and even my small community. I am often stunned at the hold Satan has got on people and the way he has of using these people to try to shame others into joining them. Truly, this can't go on much longer. Don't worry about unplugging your toaster to save energy and prevent the earth's resources from running out...it won't get that far before evil takes over or Christ returns to do a serious housecleaning!
So after thinking along these lines, I'm less worried about my youth being dead as I am about my children's youth being murdered. They are so young and inexperienced. I hope that our efforts as parents here at home will give them the protection they need to reach adulthood as healthy, happy people - physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.
Wow. This post totally changed sentiment as I typed! I thought I was going to be witty and comical and ended up charging up my testimony. Go Freedom of Speech!
She wanted to know if the KID died. She isn't able to make a connection between childhood and adulthood. After all, it's not like I'm a butterfly and went through a complete rebirth! I told her that I just changed slowly as I got older. I'm not sure she really understood. But then I started pondering her question.
I'm sure a part of me has died since I was a child. The innocence is gone. The wide-scale trust is gone. Much of the wonder is gone. Some of the naivete is gone (much still remains). In some ways I mourn the losses. The scriptures tell us to be more childlike. I have strayed far from that and would like to regain some of the purity and joy that comes with childhood.
But in other ways, I'm glad for the maturity that protects me from the incredible evil that thrives in the world and even my small community. I am often stunned at the hold Satan has got on people and the way he has of using these people to try to shame others into joining them. Truly, this can't go on much longer. Don't worry about unplugging your toaster to save energy and prevent the earth's resources from running out...it won't get that far before evil takes over or Christ returns to do a serious housecleaning!
So after thinking along these lines, I'm less worried about my youth being dead as I am about my children's youth being murdered. They are so young and inexperienced. I hope that our efforts as parents here at home will give them the protection they need to reach adulthood as healthy, happy people - physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.
Wow. This post totally changed sentiment as I typed! I thought I was going to be witty and comical and ended up charging up my testimony. Go Freedom of Speech!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Blogged! and Self Reflections
That's the title I've chosen for my books of blogged posts that I'm formatting ("Blogged!"...not the 2nd part). I recently discovered a website that uploads your blog (including the pictures) and lets you have it printed (for a price, of course). The website is Blurb and they have a lot of great ideas for books. I guess they are one way to get yourself published if you can't find anyone else interested in your work.
Anyway, I don't imagine that my book of blog posts is going to hit the market anytime this century. I'm only ordering one book of each. But if any of you ever wanted to create a memory book or similar, they have it set up that other people can order the book if they want it.
I am putting my posts into books by year. Since I started in October of '06, the first volume will have 2006 and 2007. It has 200 pages! 2008 is a bit shorter. As I was going through the first one, I came across several little things the kids had said or done that I'd forgotten all about. I look forward to the kids reading about themselves years down the road from now. We'll have our own family scrapbook!
I figure between the blog, my journal and the scrapbook pages I print, we'll have a fairly decent record of our family's adventures.
I've decided that it's also going to be a bit humbling as I look back at my writing over the years. I don't imagine there is anyone that reads my blog that doesn't understand I'm a bit opinionated. In some ways, my blogging has been a valuable outlet for my frustrations and angry feelings. Sometimes I haven't used it in the best way and lashed out at others under the protection of the computer screen.
I've been thinking of this for a while now. I've finally decided to let go of the grudges and attitudes that haven't been doing me any favors. It's going to be a little difficult to change life-long habits so abruptly, and I imagine I may struggle a bit, but I hope it will lighten the mood I often let myself brood in. There are a lot of things that have happened in my life that I might have the right to be upset about, but I've done a lot of things that aren't so great as well. So I'm trying to be a better and nicer (to be around) person.
I know many people won't believe I'm sincere or that I can do it. Those are probably the people I've offended the most. I don't blame them for being skeptical. And I can't do anything to make them change their opinion of me, other than try to be better. I hope that they will eventually forgive me and allow damaged relationships to heal.
All I really want right now is a lighter heart, a happier family and an increased testimony in spiritual things. Those things only come from me, though. So I'd better get to work!
Anyway, I don't imagine that my book of blog posts is going to hit the market anytime this century. I'm only ordering one book of each. But if any of you ever wanted to create a memory book or similar, they have it set up that other people can order the book if they want it.
I am putting my posts into books by year. Since I started in October of '06, the first volume will have 2006 and 2007. It has 200 pages! 2008 is a bit shorter. As I was going through the first one, I came across several little things the kids had said or done that I'd forgotten all about. I look forward to the kids reading about themselves years down the road from now. We'll have our own family scrapbook!
I figure between the blog, my journal and the scrapbook pages I print, we'll have a fairly decent record of our family's adventures.
I've decided that it's also going to be a bit humbling as I look back at my writing over the years. I don't imagine there is anyone that reads my blog that doesn't understand I'm a bit opinionated. In some ways, my blogging has been a valuable outlet for my frustrations and angry feelings. Sometimes I haven't used it in the best way and lashed out at others under the protection of the computer screen.
I've been thinking of this for a while now. I've finally decided to let go of the grudges and attitudes that haven't been doing me any favors. It's going to be a little difficult to change life-long habits so abruptly, and I imagine I may struggle a bit, but I hope it will lighten the mood I often let myself brood in. There are a lot of things that have happened in my life that I might have the right to be upset about, but I've done a lot of things that aren't so great as well. So I'm trying to be a better and nicer (to be around) person.
I know many people won't believe I'm sincere or that I can do it. Those are probably the people I've offended the most. I don't blame them for being skeptical. And I can't do anything to make them change their opinion of me, other than try to be better. I hope that they will eventually forgive me and allow damaged relationships to heal.
All I really want right now is a lighter heart, a happier family and an increased testimony in spiritual things. Those things only come from me, though. So I'd better get to work!
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Down in the dumps
There are few things in the world of mothering that are more tiring than have sick kids. Having YOUNG sick kids is worse.
Joseph is not feeling well and his nose is constantly oozing. The only thing I can't do while wiping his nose is take a shower. I think I've done everything else. He comes up to me, pointing to his nose, saying, "uh, uh." And the coughing is getting Sarah sick. I can hear her nose start to fill up. Great. I just started getting her to sleep in the bassinet again. I expect we'll be back in the swing before the new week begins.
Normally, this would be challenging enough. But I'm running on reduced sleep rations and really only want to get a nice, uninterrupted nap. The night before last, I didn't see the clock during the 11 pm, 3 am and 5 am hours (Joseph came in crying at 6:00). I saw it every other time. Last night wasn't quite as bad...I only woke 3 times before I really had to get out of bed.
Such sporadic sleep opens the door for really interesting dreams. Two nights ago, I dreamt the entire plot for a mystery novel. I was sure I could remember it, and was recalling it during one feeding time. But once the sun came up, it was gone. A literary wonder the world will never know.
So now that I'm so tired (physically and emotionally), I have no desire to clean the house. This is unfortunate, because things are piling up around here. No one else seems to care, so things get worse and my guilt meter rises.
And getting my kids to care requires serious bribing/threatening. That's tiring, too! We didn't get to have prayer this morning because the boys couldn't move their incredibly lazy rear ends fast enough. Daniel ran onto the bus with his coat, backpack and scout shirt in his hands. Grr.. Sometimes I just want to squeeze that boy! More guilt.
Daniel has a TMJ check-up today. I'm taking everyone but Nathan with me (since he'll still be in school) for a 35 min drive on the freeway, each way, because I didn't know who to call to come sit in my house for two hours and didn't want to burden anyone with a sick and cranky Joseph. I guess we'll sit in the van and watch a movie or something while I send Daniel in. Maybe I can get the doctor to talk to me at the back door so I can stay in the parking lot with the kids? Are things supposed to get this tricky?
I got the bill for taking Rebekah to the Dr. to pull the cactus needles...$183. Wow. He's thinking he's a little more skilled with those tweezers than I observed! We'd better make sure to use the free ice cream coupons he gave us. I want to get my money's worth!
And so when the FOP called this morning (Fraternal Order of Police) I hung up on them. That was free.
Now, between feeling sorry for myself and just being in a sorry state, it's a regular fun-fest around here! Woo hoo!
Joseph is not feeling well and his nose is constantly oozing. The only thing I can't do while wiping his nose is take a shower. I think I've done everything else. He comes up to me, pointing to his nose, saying, "uh, uh." And the coughing is getting Sarah sick. I can hear her nose start to fill up. Great. I just started getting her to sleep in the bassinet again. I expect we'll be back in the swing before the new week begins.
Normally, this would be challenging enough. But I'm running on reduced sleep rations and really only want to get a nice, uninterrupted nap. The night before last, I didn't see the clock during the 11 pm, 3 am and 5 am hours (Joseph came in crying at 6:00). I saw it every other time. Last night wasn't quite as bad...I only woke 3 times before I really had to get out of bed.
Such sporadic sleep opens the door for really interesting dreams. Two nights ago, I dreamt the entire plot for a mystery novel. I was sure I could remember it, and was recalling it during one feeding time. But once the sun came up, it was gone. A literary wonder the world will never know.
So now that I'm so tired (physically and emotionally), I have no desire to clean the house. This is unfortunate, because things are piling up around here. No one else seems to care, so things get worse and my guilt meter rises.
And getting my kids to care requires serious bribing/threatening. That's tiring, too! We didn't get to have prayer this morning because the boys couldn't move their incredibly lazy rear ends fast enough. Daniel ran onto the bus with his coat, backpack and scout shirt in his hands. Grr.. Sometimes I just want to squeeze that boy! More guilt.
Daniel has a TMJ check-up today. I'm taking everyone but Nathan with me (since he'll still be in school) for a 35 min drive on the freeway, each way, because I didn't know who to call to come sit in my house for two hours and didn't want to burden anyone with a sick and cranky Joseph. I guess we'll sit in the van and watch a movie or something while I send Daniel in. Maybe I can get the doctor to talk to me at the back door so I can stay in the parking lot with the kids? Are things supposed to get this tricky?
I got the bill for taking Rebekah to the Dr. to pull the cactus needles...$183. Wow. He's thinking he's a little more skilled with those tweezers than I observed! We'd better make sure to use the free ice cream coupons he gave us. I want to get my money's worth!
And so when the FOP called this morning (Fraternal Order of Police) I hung up on them. That was free.
Now, between feeling sorry for myself and just being in a sorry state, it's a regular fun-fest around here! Woo hoo!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Critic's Corner
New television shows are coming on scene and old favorites are returning. I don't watch a ton of TV, but I do have some I enjoy quite a bit. Some I watch just because my first choices aren't available or because I can't stand reruns. And then there are a lot of shows (most of them really) that are so bad, it's better to just turn the box off.
Last week we watched Jay Leno's new show. I think we caught every night, but might have missed one. It was a little disappointing. It really is just like watching the Tonight Show, with a few minor tweeks. I'd love to see more "Jay Walking" and "Headlines", etc. and less interviews. I know it's too much to expect him to get cleaner acts. I don't know why some things are so funny to people. For example, that Dan guy who did the bit at the car wash? He's very talented; he's funny, sings well and performs well. But he's dirty and crass. That really took a lot away from his performance. And the "Uninvited Guest" (what's his name) was a little hard to listen to. I don't even understand the title of the segment. He's obviously invited.
But the reason for this whole post is last night's viewing. My favorite show is NCIS. I feel like I miss it a lot, but strangely catch all the reruns of what I have seen. And the fact that it's on at 7 PM makes it really hard to catch. That's when we're putting our kids to bed! So I was looking forward to last night and a new episode. Sarah and I retreated to the bedroom just before 7. It was just as good as always. The humor is great and the character chemistry is perfect.
I don't watch TV (or movies) because of "hunky" actors and besides Mark Harmon, I probably couldn't give you the names of the actors on the show. But I know their character names and personalities.
There has long been hype of the new spin off: NCIS Los Angeles. I was skeptical as most spin offs just aren't as good. And I am very loyal to my NCIS. My impression of the show? Not as good. It seems like too much "gadgetry" (is that a word?) and hi-tech special effects and not enough connection between the actors. And there are so many people in it! The conference room was always crammed with people. I wasn't sure who was who and why they were supposed to be so important to even be there.
The acting was not as good as NCIS with the exception of LL Cool J. He's pretty believable. The short lady (Kindergarten Cop...but don't know her name) was good, too. I guess I just have a hard time placing her in the roll. Chris O'Donnell needs to lose some "boyishness". But I have to say, I learned yesterday that he has 5 kids (with the same woman - his WIFE even) and I'm VERY impressed!
The story line was good though. I think they just need to get better at acting (though I'm no revered critic) and quit using so much fancy technology (or at least, quit making it so obvious). That's the opinion of a conservative, 30-40 year old, white woman of middle class.
Last week we watched Jay Leno's new show. I think we caught every night, but might have missed one. It was a little disappointing. It really is just like watching the Tonight Show, with a few minor tweeks. I'd love to see more "Jay Walking" and "Headlines", etc. and less interviews. I know it's too much to expect him to get cleaner acts. I don't know why some things are so funny to people. For example, that Dan guy who did the bit at the car wash? He's very talented; he's funny, sings well and performs well. But he's dirty and crass. That really took a lot away from his performance. And the "Uninvited Guest" (what's his name) was a little hard to listen to. I don't even understand the title of the segment. He's obviously invited.
But the reason for this whole post is last night's viewing. My favorite show is NCIS. I feel like I miss it a lot, but strangely catch all the reruns of what I have seen. And the fact that it's on at 7 PM makes it really hard to catch. That's when we're putting our kids to bed! So I was looking forward to last night and a new episode. Sarah and I retreated to the bedroom just before 7. It was just as good as always. The humor is great and the character chemistry is perfect.
I don't watch TV (or movies) because of "hunky" actors and besides Mark Harmon, I probably couldn't give you the names of the actors on the show. But I know their character names and personalities.
There has long been hype of the new spin off: NCIS Los Angeles. I was skeptical as most spin offs just aren't as good. And I am very loyal to my NCIS. My impression of the show? Not as good. It seems like too much "gadgetry" (is that a word?) and hi-tech special effects and not enough connection between the actors. And there are so many people in it! The conference room was always crammed with people. I wasn't sure who was who and why they were supposed to be so important to even be there.
The acting was not as good as NCIS with the exception of LL Cool J. He's pretty believable. The short lady (Kindergarten Cop...but don't know her name) was good, too. I guess I just have a hard time placing her in the roll. Chris O'Donnell needs to lose some "boyishness". But I have to say, I learned yesterday that he has 5 kids (with the same woman - his WIFE even) and I'm VERY impressed!
The story line was good though. I think they just need to get better at acting (though I'm no revered critic) and quit using so much fancy technology (or at least, quit making it so obvious). That's the opinion of a conservative, 30-40 year old, white woman of middle class.
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