Things that make the world better: Frosting crackers (I tried peanut butter crackers with cream cheese frosting, and it was good. Try it!), and spiritual activity. After a terrible, horribly bad day, I went to Rapid to attend institute, ate some frosting on crackers, and the world was good again. I haven't been back to work yet, but I have all hope that it will be a better day.
On to the book review:
I've been trying to get into "The Scarlet Letter," and it has been a hard read. While the other classics that I've tried to read have ended in an unfinished pile, I am determined to complete this one!
So far this is what I've gotten from the book:
~ I've wondered if the sex offender registry is a modern day example of the scarlet letter, which the wearer must be adorned for life?
~ I think that one of the main thesis' of the book is the question of whether it is worse for a sinner to be publicly shamed, or to be silent- suffering torturous thoughts of shame inside. I think for one thing, true repentance involves confession, and with that confession comes eventual cleansing. This book definitely shows the demonic effects of un-confessed sin. I do not wish for that to be on my conscience! The scarlet letter, in a way was freeing, as well as damning.
~ Hester, the wearer of the Scarlet Letter is an interesting character. She is ostracized from society because of adultery, and pretty much becomes a shadow of her former self. It makes me wonder if the wearing away of personality is from the original sin, or the way it was dealt with. Perhaps both? Honestly, repentance to me is there to make us better people, not to rob the person of who they are.
All in all, it's very interesting. I should be finished with it by tomorrow. What should be my next book? I have a lot of flimsy reads, which should be a good break from all this thinking :)
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you DON'T.
Today stinks! I hate everything... how is it that everything seems to change so fast? I wonder what I'm doing here, I'm wishing I weren't the only one with standards, and I want a "real life!" Besides that everything is good. Too bad you can't live your entire life on a hike, or at the most fun dance you've ever been too :( The real world is just that, REAL.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Hiking Solo
There's just something about going on a hike by yourself that is different from any other experience. As I solo hiked this week (yes, people knew where I was, and get this, I EVEN TOOK ENOUGH WATER WITH ME :D), I felt rejuvenated, inspired, and at peace with myself. It's like you discover a part of your inner being, that's usually hard to channel (am I sounding existential enough yet?); as soon as you're free from outside "noise." It's just you, the wind blowing through the trees, and God. The actual physical exertion of hiking has its own rewards, because for one, you are forced to concentrate. Then when you reach the overlooks, the views mean much more because of the "sacrifice" you made to get there.
As we go through the drudgery/excitement of a usual day, it is just too easy to loose our "true self!" The pressing things of the moment need attention, and inquirings of the deep inner being are often passed over. How often do we think of the riches of eternity, or see ourselves as the glorious children of God that we are, with His light shining through us? How often do we simply stop and stand still? In thinking about this, I am reminded that the temple is a great place to reconnect with the spirit, and commune with our Heavenly Father. Since I'm so far away from one now, I am grateful that the beauties of nature are so near.
I feel like I found myself all over again as I jumped over and climbed around boulders, or sat overlooking the hills from various points along the trails. Now I remember why John Muir says to "come to the mountains... wash your soul clean"!
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| From June 2009 |
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Thankful Thursday
In honor of thankful Thursday, I'm going to write all of the things that I'm thankful for... with the ABC's. bE PREPARED: I've never done this before, so it might be a little silly!
A- I am grateful for my AUNTS, especially Cheryl :D Thanks for your charity.
B- BOYS, especially if they happen to be my nephews.
C- COMMUNICATION, what would we do without it? Even when there are MIScommunications, I appreciate those who are willing to hang in there until it's cleared up.
D- DRIFTWOOD Ln. My home turf.
E- EMAILS. Love love love them, as well as EGGS in the morning.
F- FRIENDS, old, new, and in-between
G- GRANDPARENTS, especially those who share their stories with me :D
H- HIKING, what else?
I- Ireland, and the fact that Annie is there living her dream, INSPIRING me to live mine.
J- inside JOKES that never get old. I still read over my happy thoughts notebook and laugh :D
K- Kathy and Kristy and KIND people everywhere.
L- LOVE, ahhh how sweet.
M- my marvelous, magnificent, majestic, MOTHER.
N- NUTS, I like them too... People, and the "seed."
O- Oooooook lahoma where the wind comes rushing down the grain- I drew a blank.
P- The word PLEASE. It's nice to hear common manners once in awhile. Wait, am I a hypocrite?
Q- QUESTIONS, question balls, questions that get answered, and questioning everything yet being ok without knowing the answers now.
R- ROBINSON FAMILY CAROLERS- we should really call the new CD that, REALLY.
S- SCRIPTURES! SINGING with the fam! SUNSHINE after the rain! SOUL expanding days... S is a good letter.
T- TESTIMONY, Truth, Tenfold blessings... and Technology to share it all.
U- UNDERSTANDING that comes with time. Understanding friends and family that love you even when you're crabby. Understanding, the sign, I like that one.
V- VELCRO- enough said.
W- WEATHER. There's a lot of it here. I wouldn't want to be bored!
X- eXclamation points? I'm really drawing a blank.
Y- YOGA, especially BYU TV's- it's modest and everything :) And of course my Yoga Partner- miss you too Taffy!
Z- the Buzzzzing of bees? Who thought of these letters at the end of the alphabet?
A- I am grateful for my AUNTS, especially Cheryl :D Thanks for your charity.
B- BOYS, especially if they happen to be my nephews.
C- COMMUNICATION, what would we do without it? Even when there are MIScommunications, I appreciate those who are willing to hang in there until it's cleared up.
D- DRIFTWOOD Ln. My home turf.
E- EMAILS. Love love love them, as well as EGGS in the morning.
F- FRIENDS, old, new, and in-between
G- GRANDPARENTS, especially those who share their stories with me :D
H- HIKING, what else?
I- Ireland, and the fact that Annie is there living her dream, INSPIRING me to live mine.
J- inside JOKES that never get old. I still read over my happy thoughts notebook and laugh :D
K- Kathy and Kristy and KIND people everywhere.
L- LOVE, ahhh how sweet.
M- my marvelous, magnificent, majestic, MOTHER.
N- NUTS, I like them too... People, and the "seed."
O- Oooooook lahoma where the wind comes rushing down the grain- I drew a blank.
P- The word PLEASE. It's nice to hear common manners once in awhile. Wait, am I a hypocrite?
Q- QUESTIONS, question balls, questions that get answered, and questioning everything yet being ok without knowing the answers now.
R- ROBINSON FAMILY CAROLERS- we should really call the new CD that, REALLY.
S- SCRIPTURES! SINGING with the fam! SUNSHINE after the rain! SOUL expanding days... S is a good letter.
T- TESTIMONY, Truth, Tenfold blessings... and Technology to share it all.
U- UNDERSTANDING that comes with time. Understanding friends and family that love you even when you're crabby. Understanding, the sign, I like that one.
V- VELCRO- enough said.
W- WEATHER. There's a lot of it here. I wouldn't want to be bored!
X- eXclamation points? I'm really drawing a blank.
Y- YOGA, especially BYU TV's- it's modest and everything :) And of course my Yoga Partner- miss you too Taffy!
Z- the Buzzzzing of bees? Who thought of these letters at the end of the alphabet?
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Compliments that can last a month?
I think it was Mark Twain who once said that a good compliment could last him for a month. I've had some great compliments this past week, but I actually have mixed feelings about some of them. Take for instance:
~ Why isn't Carrie married? She's pretty and nice...
I appreciate the pretty and nice part, but ummm, is there really an answer besides the fact that I date the wrong guys- for me?
~ "Even if there's stress behind the desk, you always give the customers great customer service." then later, "Wow, you just roll with it, I would be shaking (or something like that, after a mean guest yelled at us across the lobby THREE different times)."
I don't have a problem with the first one, it was nice to hear! For the second one I wanted to say, "Compared to people dealing with sexual assault, this was cake."
~ "I took an informal poll, and they said you were the funnest one to dance with!"
This one I definitely don't have problems with. The YSA dance was the most fun one I've been to--- EVER. I had lots of fun being goofy, and I guess the guys did too.
So, all in all, compliments are great to hear, and I should try to give them more often! Maybe I'll have to take time to think of how it might be taken before that though...
~ Why isn't Carrie married? She's pretty and nice...
I appreciate the pretty and nice part, but ummm, is there really an answer besides the fact that I date the wrong guys- for me?
~ Carrie's the sweetest girl here...
This was kind of strange, coming from a maintenance guy who is about 50. Good thing he said that about Hera a few seconds before he said my name!
~ I can't imagine you not smiling (as in I never get mad or something, ha!)...This one brought to mind the days in St. David AZ when I put a perpetual smile on my face, when I was feeling intimidated in softball! Am I feeling intimidated here? I also realized from this compliment that I definitely change with my environment. Here I feel like the church will be judged by my conduct, so I'm careful to be cheery/calm/and not too opinionated around here! The other day we had a YSA (young single adult) conference, and some of the guys were getting into it in regards to politics. I felt intimidated and kind of unintelligent--- and thought about all the time I was overbearing in my political ideas. Sorry if I made you feel intimidated and stupid! I think if I were back in UT, I'd probably spout off conflicting ideas like I used to, but life is different now. Good/bad? I haven't decided. I'm sure there's a happy medium somewhere.
~ "You would make the best missionary."
I don't know when this comment will stop hurting, because it's been about 4 years since the mission drama and I still get a gut ache when I think about it :(
~ "Even if there's stress behind the desk, you always give the customers great customer service." then later, "Wow, you just roll with it, I would be shaking (or something like that, after a mean guest yelled at us across the lobby THREE different times)."
I don't have a problem with the first one, it was nice to hear! For the second one I wanted to say, "Compared to people dealing with sexual assault, this was cake."
~ "I took an informal poll, and they said you were the funnest one to dance with!"
This one I definitely don't have problems with. The YSA dance was the most fun one I've been to--- EVER. I had lots of fun being goofy, and I guess the guys did too.
So, all in all, compliments are great to hear, and I should try to give them more often! Maybe I'll have to take time to think of how it might be taken before that though...
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
I Miss You!
So, for the first time that I can remember, I'm feeling homesick. Not really missing home, just my babies!!! I miss the way Kaden would call me Ree, and bang on the door excited to see me. I miss seeing Autumn in her peacefulness, and I want to see those smiles :D I miss Jenna and all the funny words she is starting to say, and how could I not miss her tounge? She loves to stick it out at every opportunity. Then there's Elina who was just learning how to say "I Love You" in sign, and the way she would call me Turrie. I miss Aaron's gushyness, and his most adorable smiles :) Caleb and Sammie, and their trying to play soft with the little kids. I miss Caleb being so excited about things like Transformers, that he'd run around the room being one. Sammie and her dramatic princess role, and her "Samie-isms. What energy she brings to the world. AND baby Tommy, who is so energetic that he'll probably run before he walks, and he's the cutest little elf there is. I am so blessed to such great kids to be my nieces and nephews!!! I hope they can come to visit as planned. What better time to see Buffalo, Mt. Rushmore, and the 1880's Train? Caleb and Samie are the perfect age... please please please let it work out. I really miss you guys!!!!!!! Kisses, muwah.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Third post in one day, aren't you excited?
Ok, it is now 4:38 am and I'm a little tired.
These are ideas that I've come up with when you need to stay awake but feel tired.
you can:
~ run up and down the hallway (in the downstairs employee part, away from sleeping guests),
~ sing or whistle to yourself :)
~ do jumping jacks in the back office, just in case a random person does slip in and sees you.
~ Walk outside in the rain for a minute or two... if the darkness doesn't scare you!
~ Poke yourself in the eye, it might help you stay awake!
~ Standing at the desk helps instead of sitting in the nice comfy chair behind the desk.
~ Make paper airplanes with the extra paper from the day, then throw them as close to the
center of the carpet, on the deer's tail.
~ Yoga moves, again in the back office ;)
~ Try pushups on the counter
~ Practice dance moves, cha cah, solo polka, and of course the jitterbug :D
~ Hop on one leg for a count of twenty, then switch legs. . .
Now the question is, can you guess which of these I have actually done?
P.S. Did you know that it starts getting lighter right now? The sky is a dark blue instead of black... It's so early! what's with that?
P.P.S. Watching the sun come through the windows as it rises makes me look at the place I see every day- differently. Hmmm, what else am I missing? Please note that I did catch the fact that old buildings creek, and that the employee dining room is creepy in the dark!
Three cheers for my night at the hotel being over, as soon as Hera gets here... I made it out alive! No dinosaurs, or tiny fighting cowboys/indians to speak of (a hotel isn't as cool as a museum I guess). So sad.
These are ideas that I've come up with when you need to stay awake but feel tired.
you can:
~ run up and down the hallway (in the downstairs employee part, away from sleeping guests),
~ sing or whistle to yourself :)
~ do jumping jacks in the back office, just in case a random person does slip in and sees you.
~ Walk outside in the rain for a minute or two... if the darkness doesn't scare you!
~ Poke yourself in the eye, it might help you stay awake!
~ Standing at the desk helps instead of sitting in the nice comfy chair behind the desk.
~ Make paper airplanes with the extra paper from the day, then throw them as close to the
center of the carpet, on the deer's tail.
~ Yoga moves, again in the back office ;)
~ Try pushups on the counter
~ Practice dance moves, cha cah, solo polka, and of course the jitterbug :D
~ Hop on one leg for a count of twenty, then switch legs. . .
Now the question is, can you guess which of these I have actually done?
P.S. Did you know that it starts getting lighter right now? The sky is a dark blue instead of black... It's so early! what's with that?
P.P.S. Watching the sun come through the windows as it rises makes me look at the place I see every day- differently. Hmmm, what else am I missing? Please note that I did catch the fact that old buildings creek, and that the employee dining room is creepy in the dark!
Three cheers for my night at the hotel being over, as soon as Hera gets here... I made it out alive! No dinosaurs, or tiny fighting cowboys/indians to speak of (a hotel isn't as cool as a museum I guess). So sad.
Good Week
Well, besides the guy drama (see the previous post), this has been a really good week. I'm working all night tonight, and the lodge is quiet for the moment (it had better be since it's 4am!). I haven't heard any ghost sounds, yet, so it's not as exciting as I planned on, but I also haven't had any drunk people come in, so yipee for boring graveyard shifts! This week's highlights:
1. We conquered Harney Peak as well as Little Devil's Tower. Lots of fun, but I need to get in better shape before doing both in one day again.
2. Darren, my little brother finally made it to South Dakota! I was so excited to see him, especially when I found out that he did remember to bring my games. We got to spend the evening of Saturday and the morning of Sunday together, and I think he had fun. We drove over to see the buffalo, but it was so foggy I didn't think we'd be able to see them. Finally when the wildlife loop was almost over we saw a few by the road, that we probably would have missed if there weren't three other cars in front of us, with their break lights shining through the fog :) He's now seen things he's never seen before: Buffalo, Art Alley, a lake completely invisible because of fog... it was fun to have him here. He slept in my Indonesian Friends' room, and they stayed up watching a movie and playing their music. I'm not alone in the world!!! I'm so glad to have my baby brother here so we can have some shared experiences and can go into "remember that time" stories when we get home. Those are the highlights, but it's been a good week. I was right, the first two weeks are the hardest, then you get your place and feel ok. Poor Ryan, Darren's friend who came to the scout camp from Enoch- he's really homesick and might actually leave soon. One thing about our family, we rarely get homesick. Why that is, I'm not sure, but it sure comes in handy when you're far away. Independence is a great quality to instill in your children, good job mom!
1. We conquered Harney Peak as well as Little Devil's Tower. Lots of fun, but I need to get in better shape before doing both in one day again.
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| From June 2009 |
2. Darren, my little brother finally made it to South Dakota! I was so excited to see him, especially when I found out that he did remember to bring my games. We got to spend the evening of Saturday and the morning of Sunday together, and I think he had fun. We drove over to see the buffalo, but it was so foggy I didn't think we'd be able to see them. Finally when the wildlife loop was almost over we saw a few by the road, that we probably would have missed if there weren't three other cars in front of us, with their break lights shining through the fog :) He's now seen things he's never seen before: Buffalo, Art Alley, a lake completely invisible because of fog... it was fun to have him here. He slept in my Indonesian Friends' room, and they stayed up watching a movie and playing their music. I'm not alone in the world!!! I'm so glad to have my baby brother here so we can have some shared experiences and can go into "remember that time" stories when we get home. Those are the highlights, but it's been a good week. I was right, the first two weeks are the hardest, then you get your place and feel ok. Poor Ryan, Darren's friend who came to the scout camp from Enoch- he's really homesick and might actually leave soon. One thing about our family, we rarely get homesick. Why that is, I'm not sure, but it sure comes in handy when you're far away. Independence is a great quality to instill in your children, good job mom!
Guy complaints... before the blessing post :S
Somehow I thought the guy situation couldn't get worse, but today it definitely did....
My international guy friend actually had the nerve to ask me if I would think about marrying him so he could get a green card, and be in the US army! He was serious, I still can't get over it!!!!! That was yesterday; then today we were doing a Book of Mormon study, and we got in a big argument about my life! He thinks something is really wrong with me because I have a degree, yet I'm working for a tiny amount of money. Seriously, many of the international workers think that if you're a US citizen you have it easy, and you can get any job you want! I tried to explain that I'm trying to figure out what I want to do with grad school etc, but all he said was that if you have a plan and work for it, it will work out! PUHH-LEASE. I am the wrong person to tell this to. Do you know how many times I've made plans and something came up to change them (all it took was dating Nate, then getting Mono, then loosing my job, then the economy dropping, to mess up the marriage/family therapy plans- but yah, if I had worked towards that goal it definitely would have happened. *SARCASM strongly used in that sentence*)? It's only happened every other time I make a plan of any size. Again, Puh- lease! I am so bugged right now. I don't see many problems with taking some time off, working in a fun area, and taking a step back to see what it is I really want to do. What do I need money for anyway? Don't you think that I've already gone over the "I have a looser status because 1. I don't have a great career (here) or 2. family (UT)?" All I need is some guy to tell me this, especially after yesterday's "lovely" conversation. Why are men like they are? It finally dawned on me that every time I'm with him I get annoyed, even if he is the only other LDS guy here (who hasn't been to church for 1 1/2 year). Maybe I should get the hint!
#2 guy, I still like the prison guy. I found out what he was in for, and it's really not a big deal... but I also know that I have a tendency to float to people with issues... so I'd better not get too close right? Why does he have to be the most cute/spiritual (probably from repentance, ug) one???
#3- guys in the branch. I got asked out on a date - on Facebook the other day (first for me). The only problem is that this guy works crazy insane hours, and told me today that he can't really think of a time that we can actually go on a date. hmmm. No time for me? Flattering.
#4 As I was driving to SD, in the middle of the nothingness of Wyoming, I got a call from my friend Melissa. She wanted to set me up with her neighbor... but I never heard from him! Then after my whole stupid guy day, I get on my email and there is an email from him! I can't think of a worse time really. He'd pretty much have to be perfect for me to even think of him in a nice light right now, just because of his gender! Maybe I should read his email again tomorrow... not the night that I'm having a "Night at the haunted hotel" night, as I'm here doing the night audit until 6 am. Actually my manager did it and had me pretty much watch. It's so confusing! The directions say "it should be balanced" but from what I've heard, it NEVER is, and the directions don't say how to fix it!
My international guy friend actually had the nerve to ask me if I would think about marrying him so he could get a green card, and be in the US army! He was serious, I still can't get over it!!!!! That was yesterday; then today we were doing a Book of Mormon study, and we got in a big argument about my life! He thinks something is really wrong with me because I have a degree, yet I'm working for a tiny amount of money. Seriously, many of the international workers think that if you're a US citizen you have it easy, and you can get any job you want! I tried to explain that I'm trying to figure out what I want to do with grad school etc, but all he said was that if you have a plan and work for it, it will work out! PUHH-LEASE. I am the wrong person to tell this to. Do you know how many times I've made plans and something came up to change them (all it took was dating Nate, then getting Mono, then loosing my job, then the economy dropping, to mess up the marriage/family therapy plans- but yah, if I had worked towards that goal it definitely would have happened. *SARCASM strongly used in that sentence*)? It's only happened every other time I make a plan of any size. Again, Puh- lease! I am so bugged right now. I don't see many problems with taking some time off, working in a fun area, and taking a step back to see what it is I really want to do. What do I need money for anyway? Don't you think that I've already gone over the "I have a looser status because 1. I don't have a great career (here) or 2. family (UT)?" All I need is some guy to tell me this, especially after yesterday's "lovely" conversation. Why are men like they are? It finally dawned on me that every time I'm with him I get annoyed, even if he is the only other LDS guy here (who hasn't been to church for 1 1/2 year). Maybe I should get the hint!
#2 guy, I still like the prison guy. I found out what he was in for, and it's really not a big deal... but I also know that I have a tendency to float to people with issues... so I'd better not get too close right? Why does he have to be the most cute/spiritual (probably from repentance, ug) one???
#3- guys in the branch. I got asked out on a date - on Facebook the other day (first for me). The only problem is that this guy works crazy insane hours, and told me today that he can't really think of a time that we can actually go on a date. hmmm. No time for me? Flattering.
#4 As I was driving to SD, in the middle of the nothingness of Wyoming, I got a call from my friend Melissa. She wanted to set me up with her neighbor... but I never heard from him! Then after my whole stupid guy day, I get on my email and there is an email from him! I can't think of a worse time really. He'd pretty much have to be perfect for me to even think of him in a nice light right now, just because of his gender! Maybe I should read his email again tomorrow... not the night that I'm having a "Night at the haunted hotel" night, as I'm here doing the night audit until 6 am. Actually my manager did it and had me pretty much watch. It's so confusing! The directions say "it should be balanced" but from what I've heard, it NEVER is, and the directions don't say how to fix it!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Fun Fun Times.
Pictures from a fun 31/2 day weekend in Rapid City. Thanks Jackie for letting me stay in the dorms, with my own room- what service :D
Movie night with the branch- UP is a great movie!!! Watch it.
Hiking at Falling Rocks
US Air force Airshow! It was amazing. This plane could carry a hummer.
South Dakota Thunderbirds, flying in tight formation. How do they do it???
If only this were the only use for bombs :'(
Where is it?
Solo tour of "Art Alley" in downtown Rapid.
And the statues in downtown. They're all over the place :)
This would much more fun with somebody else to go on a statue tour.
Movie night with the branch- UP is a great movie!!! Watch it.
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| From The most fun weekend of all time :D |
US Air force Airshow! It was amazing. This plane could carry a hummer.
South Dakota Thunderbirds, flying in tight formation. How do they do it???
If only this were the only use for bombs :'(
Where is it?
Solo tour of "Art Alley" in downtown Rapid.
And the statues in downtown. They're all over the place :)
This would much more fun with somebody else to go on a statue tour.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Bored
Here's another tag... I might have done it before, but I saw it on Rachel's blog and liked it. My answers are sure to astound you this time!
I Thought
that I'd never email anybody more than once a day, ha!
I Am
SOOOO appreciative of the gospel, needing to having the SPIRIT with me, in awe of the atonement, grateful for Joseph Smith and Pres. Monson, and loving the scriptures and Ensign.
I Want
To start running and hiking again, as soon as my eyes stop drooping with sleepiness, and my feet stop pounding from standing all day. I have faith, it'll happen someday!
I Wish
you were here.
I Hate
war, still hate that one. I also hate the feeling that people don't like me :(
I Fear
That of my Filipino/Indonesian buddies have (not so secret) crushes on me! Why can't it be someone who speaks my language? Cultural differences are huge when it comes to liking someone. uggh
I Hear
Birds chirping as I hike the hill to work. Ahhh how did I ever live in a city?
I Search
for peace and contentment. I come pretty close while jogging around the Sylvan Lake, and of course while in the temple. How am I going to make it living 6 hours away from Heavenly Father's house? Don't take it for granted all of you who live a few minutes, or one tiny hour away!
I Wonder
if I'll ever be able to stay in one place? So far the answer is no. Maybe if I find that one and only? Somehow he'll love the wanderlust right out of me... Or he'll just wander the world with me... hm I like that idea a whole lot better!
I Regret
Being negative, and criticizing Emily. I love you little sis, SORRY!!!!!!!! Really I am.
I Love
people: meeting new people, finding old people (long lost friends), hanging with people, getting my car washed by said people, road trip buddy people, talking on the phone to people... I LOVE MY PEOPLE!
I Ache
I can't think of anything I really ache for, except for a swearing free workplace!!!
I Always
try to find the meaning to my life. Not why am I here, but what should I be doing with my life right now? I always wonder if I should be doing more.
I Usually
eat weird food, but not so much anymore since employee meals are prepared by cooks who usually make "normal" food. I can't believe I've eaten this much meat!!!! I've probably eaten the same amount of meat in two 1/2 weeks, that I usually do in a year. I even ate some steak and didn't die, like I once supposed!
I Am Not
Vegetarian. I promise.
I Dance
in my mind all the time. Anyone want to waltz in real life?
I Sing
also in my head all the time. Lately I sing in church but that's about it. I wonder if the branch has a choir?
I Never
thought I'd make it to Martin's Cove. Chance of a lifetime, and I just happened to pass it on my way to my job.
I KNOW
That the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church upon the earth, that Joseph Smith was a true prophet and that Thomas S. Monson is called of God to lead us today. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that temples ordinances will help us gain salvation, and that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are aware of each of us, loving and caring for us--- even in our darkest days.
I Rarely
dream (or at least remember them), but I did this morning! Why is it that I only remember dreams if they deal with guys??? Rude.
I Cry
during movies (hardly ever without their aid). Has anyone seen "Miss Rose White," or "Brian's Song (The new one only)"? They are my crying movies, and I can cry any time I watch one.
I Am Not Always
happy. Shocker I know.
I Lose
pretty much anything... my car in the parking lot, my glasses in the morning when I can't see to find them, my mind occasionally, and many items that somehow hide themselves in my 5 by 5 (I haven't really measured) dorm room. How is it possible to loose something in such a tiny space?
I'm Confused
by the sign above my head that says, I will like you as long as you have emotional baggage!" Prison, are you kidding me????
I Need
to take that neon sign off my head... besides that I really need a drink of water. Have you ever pondered the idea that it's a little strange to only drink water, juice, and milk? I feel normal other places, but not being a pop drinker has it's drawbacks when that's all that's around, and water is getting drab.
I Should
appreciate all that I have more!
I Dream
well not at night, but I daydream about owning an RV and a Kayak. Anyone know of some good deals? My real dream is that we can live a celestial life here on earth. How great would it be if everyone in world paid tithing and fast offerings? I can't wait for that day.
I Thought
that I'd never email anybody more than once a day, ha!
I Am
SOOOO appreciative of the gospel, needing to having the SPIRIT with me, in awe of the atonement, grateful for Joseph Smith and Pres. Monson, and loving the scriptures and Ensign.
I Want
To start running and hiking again, as soon as my eyes stop drooping with sleepiness, and my feet stop pounding from standing all day. I have faith, it'll happen someday!
I Wish
you were here.
I Hate
war, still hate that one. I also hate the feeling that people don't like me :(
I Fear
That of my Filipino/Indonesian buddies have (not so secret) crushes on me! Why can't it be someone who speaks my language? Cultural differences are huge when it comes to liking someone. uggh
I Hear
Birds chirping as I hike the hill to work. Ahhh how did I ever live in a city?
I Search
for peace and contentment. I come pretty close while jogging around the Sylvan Lake, and of course while in the temple. How am I going to make it living 6 hours away from Heavenly Father's house? Don't take it for granted all of you who live a few minutes, or one tiny hour away!
I Wonder
if I'll ever be able to stay in one place? So far the answer is no. Maybe if I find that one and only? Somehow he'll love the wanderlust right out of me... Or he'll just wander the world with me... hm I like that idea a whole lot better!
I Regret
Being negative, and criticizing Emily. I love you little sis, SORRY!!!!!!!! Really I am.
I Love
people: meeting new people, finding old people (long lost friends), hanging with people, getting my car washed by said people, road trip buddy people, talking on the phone to people... I LOVE MY PEOPLE!
I Ache
I can't think of anything I really ache for, except for a swearing free workplace!!!
I Always
try to find the meaning to my life. Not why am I here, but what should I be doing with my life right now? I always wonder if I should be doing more.
I Usually
eat weird food, but not so much anymore since employee meals are prepared by cooks who usually make "normal" food. I can't believe I've eaten this much meat!!!! I've probably eaten the same amount of meat in two 1/2 weeks, that I usually do in a year. I even ate some steak and didn't die, like I once supposed!
I Am Not
Vegetarian. I promise.
I Dance
in my mind all the time. Anyone want to waltz in real life?
I Sing
also in my head all the time. Lately I sing in church but that's about it. I wonder if the branch has a choir?
I Never
thought I'd make it to Martin's Cove. Chance of a lifetime, and I just happened to pass it on my way to my job.
I KNOW
That the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church upon the earth, that Joseph Smith was a true prophet and that Thomas S. Monson is called of God to lead us today. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that temples ordinances will help us gain salvation, and that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are aware of each of us, loving and caring for us--- even in our darkest days.
I Rarely
dream (or at least remember them), but I did this morning! Why is it that I only remember dreams if they deal with guys??? Rude.
I Cry
during movies (hardly ever without their aid). Has anyone seen "Miss Rose White," or "Brian's Song (The new one only)"? They are my crying movies, and I can cry any time I watch one.
I Am Not Always
happy. Shocker I know.
I Lose
pretty much anything... my car in the parking lot, my glasses in the morning when I can't see to find them, my mind occasionally, and many items that somehow hide themselves in my 5 by 5 (I haven't really measured) dorm room. How is it possible to loose something in such a tiny space?
I'm Confused
by the sign above my head that says, I will like you as long as you have emotional baggage!" Prison, are you kidding me????
I Need
to take that neon sign off my head... besides that I really need a drink of water. Have you ever pondered the idea that it's a little strange to only drink water, juice, and milk? I feel normal other places, but not being a pop drinker has it's drawbacks when that's all that's around, and water is getting drab.
I Should
appreciate all that I have more!
I Dream
well not at night, but I daydream about owning an RV and a Kayak. Anyone know of some good deals? My real dream is that we can live a celestial life here on earth. How great would it be if everyone in world paid tithing and fast offerings? I can't wait for that day.
Thankful Thursday... I had a great childhood. Sometimes I miss it :)
You might want to turn off the playlist before watching, because this has music.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
A day in the life of a resort employed Mormon...
Since I'm sure none of "my readers" have worked at many resorts, I figured I'd tell a little about what it's like.
I've come to the conclusion that Resort Life would be an interesting write for an Anthropologist. There are a few groups of people that you'll find in a typical tourist resort/hotel. The first is the international group. They come from all over the world working with their J2 visas, and feel a little upset because in their countries they are professionals, but here they do housekeeping. I think I already wrote about that issue... Then there's the "forever seasonals." People who work in one place for the summer, then go somewhere else for the winter (or they go to and from the same places), over and over until they get too old to work. One fascinating person in this category is "the Dog." He's probably about 65, and has worked/hiked every spot possible in the US. I said that I'm from Cedar, and he knew all about Zion because he had worked there when there was a great pool, and the rail road going through the park. He walks around Sylvan Lake every day, and is simply fascinating. There's also the college group who come for the summer to make money and maybe party a bit in between semesters at school. There are also the professionals, like the chef whose wife kicked him out of retirement and told him to go back to work (tongue in cheek of course). Next comes those who grew up in the area, and happen to work in a lodge. They are the ones you want to talk to for out of the way, but quality places to visit. There are also some people in between the groups, which is probably where I am. Oh yes, and there's also the Christian Ministry kids, who volunteer for a summer and hold religious classes/Sunday meetings. I kind of miss the drums/steel guitar from Yosemite.
One interesting thing of resort living, is that you live and work with the same people. There is a lot of gossip going around, and it's easy to get caught up in drama that has nothing really to do with work. I'm realizing how much I need to work on charity, and loving others. Misunderstandings can be monumental here! I'm hoping that my coworkers don't think I'm a huge snob because I don't participate in their parties. It's hard to draw the line there and know what I should do.
In some ways it's hard, because I'm out in the woods with only the lodge near by, and sometimes I feel a little shut in. There are days when issues come up at work, things don't go right, and I get home and there's some issue there as well. This is of course normal for everyone, but it's hard to leave it at work when you have to go back to eat the employee meal at your workplace :) In other ways it's great, because I am meeting people and talking about my beliefs a little bit, and it's always fun to do little things for guests that make a difference in their stay. Then there's the Wal-Mart runs, and sight seeing tours that we get to go on with our employee passes :D It is of course a beautiful area, though the weather hasn't exactly been cooperating enough for me to hike! Harney Peak here I come... as soon as there is a little sun.
I've come to the conclusion that Resort Life would be an interesting write for an Anthropologist. There are a few groups of people that you'll find in a typical tourist resort/hotel. The first is the international group. They come from all over the world working with their J2 visas, and feel a little upset because in their countries they are professionals, but here they do housekeeping. I think I already wrote about that issue... Then there's the "forever seasonals." People who work in one place for the summer, then go somewhere else for the winter (or they go to and from the same places), over and over until they get too old to work. One fascinating person in this category is "the Dog." He's probably about 65, and has worked/hiked every spot possible in the US. I said that I'm from Cedar, and he knew all about Zion because he had worked there when there was a great pool, and the rail road going through the park. He walks around Sylvan Lake every day, and is simply fascinating. There's also the college group who come for the summer to make money and maybe party a bit in between semesters at school. There are also the professionals, like the chef whose wife kicked him out of retirement and told him to go back to work (tongue in cheek of course). Next comes those who grew up in the area, and happen to work in a lodge. They are the ones you want to talk to for out of the way, but quality places to visit. There are also some people in between the groups, which is probably where I am. Oh yes, and there's also the Christian Ministry kids, who volunteer for a summer and hold religious classes/Sunday meetings. I kind of miss the drums/steel guitar from Yosemite.
One interesting thing of resort living, is that you live and work with the same people. There is a lot of gossip going around, and it's easy to get caught up in drama that has nothing really to do with work. I'm realizing how much I need to work on charity, and loving others. Misunderstandings can be monumental here! I'm hoping that my coworkers don't think I'm a huge snob because I don't participate in their parties. It's hard to draw the line there and know what I should do.
In some ways it's hard, because I'm out in the woods with only the lodge near by, and sometimes I feel a little shut in. There are days when issues come up at work, things don't go right, and I get home and there's some issue there as well. This is of course normal for everyone, but it's hard to leave it at work when you have to go back to eat the employee meal at your workplace :) In other ways it's great, because I am meeting people and talking about my beliefs a little bit, and it's always fun to do little things for guests that make a difference in their stay. Then there's the Wal-Mart runs, and sight seeing tours that we get to go on with our employee passes :D It is of course a beautiful area, though the weather hasn't exactly been cooperating enough for me to hike! Harney Peak here I come... as soon as there is a little sun.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Mount Rushmore Trip with My Filipino Buddies
Pictures are above(I just got into photobucket,love it)... There were others too, but this was my carload. For some reason these guys wanted a picture of me every second! I sort of felt like a celebrity, until one of the other girls said, "Why does everyone want to take her picture?" I really don't know why... I just know there's tons.
Yes I drove, and yes, we got separated from the group once! I tried to warn Paul that I get lost easily, but I was one of the few who can drive. This was a great day. And NO I don't like any of my buddies like that, they are all married, or have kids a few years younger than me! (I know what you were thinking).
Yes I drove, and yes, we got separated from the group once! I tried to warn Paul that I get lost easily, but I was one of the few who can drive. This was a great day. And NO I don't like any of my buddies like that, they are all married, or have kids a few years younger than me! (I know what you were thinking).
Saturday, May 16, 2009
1st week
My thoughts as things are slow at the lodge tonight:
I've seen some fun topics on blogs lately, so I might just try it: "Thankful Thursday," "Flashback Friday (Or Freaky Friday if anything scary happens)," "Wacky Wednesday (I have many of these days)," or I just might do some normal posts. I could even be original and put next week's post as "2nd Week!"
Well, I have definitely been reminded that life outside of the "Mormon Belt" just isn't the same. I've far exceeded my record of swear words I've heard in one day(at least in the past 6 years or so), as well as drunk people... but I've also met a lot of people who have passed my traveling job record! One guy has worked at 28 different resorts, 28! and I thought my measly 3 meant something. You ask anyone here where they've worked, and most people can tell you at least four of five places they've been.
I did Yoga today :D It's always so good for the soul, in concentration and relaxation. I wonder what the deer would think if I did it outside?
One sad thing is all of the red tape that international people deal with, just to work here. It makes me wonder why the US is so strict for them to get in legally, yet illegal immigration is so high? Maybe it's because the government is so strict? I've decided that I should live in the Philippines, because the workers here are considered rich (even though by our standards we are working for not much more than minimum wage... I don't know the actual wage yet, but housing and food is included so I have only gas and debt for expenses, no biggie). I could save for a year and be rich there! I've noticed that a lot of the international workers send money home. Hera said that her parents worked and worked to send her to college (she graduated in the hospitality industry, and was a housekeeper, now clerk here? Go figure) so she likes to be able to help them with her sibling's tuition now. My parents also work and work, and yet how often have I sent home some money??? They are good examples.
NUMBER ONE THING I'VE LEARNED: I SHOULD FIND A TRAVELING BUDDY! It's been pretty hard being one of the few non-drinking, non swearing, non dirty-talking people around... oh wait- I just found out that one of the servers is a youth minister. Very cool. What would he think if I invited him to a LDS service? What would the poor sacrament meeting speakers feel, if they knew he was there analyzing? I think it would be fun to visit the other churches around here... A few of the other workers were talking about him being religious, and they felt bad for their language when they found out. I thought, hey, don't you guys know I'm Mormon? Clean up your mouths around me too! It makes me wonder what I should do about that. I'm used to people asking, after I say that I'm from UT, "Are you Mormon?" then they just tone it down around me. Here, it seems that many have worked in UT, so maybe they just think that I just worked there? Interesting...
I can't wait for church tomorrow. I forgot how much you hunger and thirst for the spirit when it's not constantly in your environment :D Maybe this is just what I need: to be reminded what hungering feels like instead of doing things in a lackadaisical manner. Feast instead of nibble. That's my lesson!
Random question: If I ate some mushrooms that were sauteed in wine, did I break the Word of Wisdom? I'm hoping that it was all cooked out!
Last of all: I hope that my co-workers don't read this!
MORE PICTURES, YIPEE!
I heart baby buffalo. Can I take one home with me?
I've seen some fun topics on blogs lately, so I might just try it: "Thankful Thursday," "Flashback Friday (Or Freaky Friday if anything scary happens)," "Wacky Wednesday (I have many of these days)," or I just might do some normal posts. I could even be original and put next week's post as "2nd Week!"
Well, I have definitely been reminded that life outside of the "Mormon Belt" just isn't the same. I've far exceeded my record of swear words I've heard in one day(at least in the past 6 years or so), as well as drunk people... but I've also met a lot of people who have passed my traveling job record! One guy has worked at 28 different resorts, 28! and I thought my measly 3 meant something. You ask anyone here where they've worked, and most people can tell you at least four of five places they've been.
I did Yoga today :D It's always so good for the soul, in concentration and relaxation. I wonder what the deer would think if I did it outside?
One sad thing is all of the red tape that international people deal with, just to work here. It makes me wonder why the US is so strict for them to get in legally, yet illegal immigration is so high? Maybe it's because the government is so strict? I've decided that I should live in the Philippines, because the workers here are considered rich (even though by our standards we are working for not much more than minimum wage... I don't know the actual wage yet, but housing and food is included so I have only gas and debt for expenses, no biggie). I could save for a year and be rich there! I've noticed that a lot of the international workers send money home. Hera said that her parents worked and worked to send her to college (she graduated in the hospitality industry, and was a housekeeper, now clerk here? Go figure) so she likes to be able to help them with her sibling's tuition now. My parents also work and work, and yet how often have I sent home some money??? They are good examples.
NUMBER ONE THING I'VE LEARNED: I SHOULD FIND A TRAVELING BUDDY! It's been pretty hard being one of the few non-drinking, non swearing, non dirty-talking people around... oh wait- I just found out that one of the servers is a youth minister. Very cool. What would he think if I invited him to a LDS service? What would the poor sacrament meeting speakers feel, if they knew he was there analyzing? I think it would be fun to visit the other churches around here... A few of the other workers were talking about him being religious, and they felt bad for their language when they found out. I thought, hey, don't you guys know I'm Mormon? Clean up your mouths around me too! It makes me wonder what I should do about that. I'm used to people asking, after I say that I'm from UT, "Are you Mormon?" then they just tone it down around me. Here, it seems that many have worked in UT, so maybe they just think that I just worked there? Interesting...
I can't wait for church tomorrow. I forgot how much you hunger and thirst for the spirit when it's not constantly in your environment :D Maybe this is just what I need: to be reminded what hungering feels like instead of doing things in a lackadaisical manner. Feast instead of nibble. That's my lesson!
Random question: If I ate some mushrooms that were sauteed in wine, did I break the Word of Wisdom? I'm hoping that it was all cooked out!
Last of all: I hope that my co-workers don't read this!
MORE PICTURES, YIPEE!
I heart baby buffalo. Can I take one home with me?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
100th Post!!! It worked out perfectly to write this momentous post, after a momentous change in my life.
I made it alive, though a few hours late.
Here I am, sitting in the Custer Library, feeling like I've at least been here a month instead of four days... My trip to SD involved missing an exit and going 60 miles out of the way (yah, things haven't changed much), then thinking that I had missed another one, but eventually figuring it out and turning back around, then last of all I, yet again missed another exit- but there was another route to get to Custer State Park, so it was fine. Whew, it's been a little crazy!
By far the best part of the trip was going to Martin's Cove. My family had gone there for a family reunion about 6 years ago, but I was working in Massachusetts at the time so I missed out big time. I've always wanted to visit the site, because I have two families of ancestors who were with the Martin Handcart Company (they traveled on foot through blizzards, and many died), but miraculously neither family lost anyone to death. Actually being there was an amazing experience. I seriously don't think I've felt the spirit any stronger in my entire life. Be
cause I was one of the few people there (it's off season yipee!), and I didn't have a lot of time, a sister missionary took me by four wheeler to the cove. I don't know how missionaries do it, I'd be bawling every time I tried to tell stories. We both cried a little when she talked about the rescuers etc. I am so amazed, in awe, grateful, and have a deep sense of reverence for all that transpired in that place. How thankful I am for my ancestors who courageously stayed true to their beliefs, through every difficulty imaginable. Then, without the rescuers, I would 't be here today! I want to go back for an entire day, instead of just one hour.
cause I was one of the few people there (it's off season yipee!), and I didn't have a lot of time, a sister missionary took me by four wheeler to the cove. I don't know how missionaries do it, I'd be bawling every time I tried to tell stories. We both cried a little when she talked about the rescuers etc. I am so amazed, in awe, grateful, and have a deep sense of reverence for all that transpired in that place. How thankful I am for my ancestors who courageously stayed true to their beliefs, through every difficulty imaginable. Then, without the rescuers, I would 't be here today! I want to go back for an entire day, instead of just one hour.
(Top, clockwise) 1. A Real Handcart. 2. The Sweetwater River, with a bridge so that people will never again (unless they want to) have to ford it. 3. by a statue of a rescuer who carried the saints across the Sweetwater. 4. My "Handcart!"
Saturday, May 9, 2009
To Do List
During the last week at home:
I weeded the grass :D
I chopped my hair! Sometimes I just need a change, and start clipping away. It was my favorite haircut that I've given myself, but now it's shorter because Sis. Hansen fixed the lines for me.
I chopped my hair! Sometimes I just need a change, and start clipping away. It was my favorite haircut that I've given myself, but now it's shorter because Sis. Hansen fixed the lines for me. 
The family attended the last choir concert at CVHS! "Foot Loose" was the theme, and I think it was the most fun concert I've ever seen.
We had our last sibling outing, which was pretty boring because Darren and Annie were sick, and I was tired. Oh well, at least we were together :)
Between all of that, I've been gathering and printing off pictures for a mother's day present. Thanks Sheri and Skot for helping with computer issues. I'll finally have all of the pictures today! PICTURES: Sorry Kristy's family & Jenna! We measured wrong, so the kid pictures were 4x6, and the adults were small, I don't know what size. (if you want to send even more updated ones, maybe it's 4x5?) They all worked out pretty well, and mom loved it :D Thanks everyone for your help.
Grandkids, in order!
3 Oldest "generation"
3 Middle
3 Youngest.
Last of all, I've been making a huge pile in the middle of my room of all the stuff I'll pack today (sorry Annie, I know you're looking forward to having a clean room and the computer all to yourself). I can't believe I'm leaving tomorrow!!!
Grandkids, in order!
3 Oldest "generation"
3 Middle
3 Youngest.
Last of all, I've been making a huge pile in the middle of my room of all the stuff I'll pack today (sorry Annie, I know you're looking forward to having a clean room and the computer all to yourself). I can't believe I'm leaving tomorrow!!!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Different World
I just read an article where the author was talking about getting married "young," and mentioned that all of her friends were still single. She got married when she was 26! I just might fit in in that world out there... but it's sad that nobody seems to want to get married anymore. I should probably mention, after all of the freaking- out- about- marriage- posts, that I think it's a better life, and I do want it... I just want it with the right guy at the right time. So, it is sad that people in the outwside world (i.e. out of the "Mormon belt") see marriage as something to be avoided, or see it as old fashioned. Sad sad sad.
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