My goodness, this is probably the longest rainstorm in Arizona history. Seriously, there is going to be some major flooding in some parts here.
You see, Arizona dirt isn't dirt...it's sand. Sand does not absorb water very well at all. That is why we have these natural things called washes or arroyo's depending on where you are. They are very short lived streams and rivers of water that can get to be very deep, very wide and very dangerous. And cause things we call flash floods. Really smart people here in Arizona think "I have four-wheel drive, I can make it over that". Man the fire department gets more action from idiots who get stuck in the water than at most other times. I love it, these big, lifted, decked out trucks get knocked over by the water. Water is a very powerful thing, yo!
It rained this morning before I got up and then has gone steady since about noon I think and it is still going strong. It kinda really stinks, cause they have been working on paving the major road by my house for a really long time now. It's going to take a little longer I think...
Below is a link to see the total amount of rainfall we have gotten in the last 24 hours. Consider this: our average YEARLY rainfall is 8.5 inches of rain.
Current rainfall count in last 24 hours
This is a lot of rain for this area. :)
And of course guess who wore a white shirt to work and did not bring her umbrella...yeah, not the brightest one in the bushel, huh? I figure, it's not going to rain. It never rains here. Ha!
Went to an "Office" party tonight. All we did is eat heart stopping food and watch episodes of the Office. It was fantabulous! I am gaining more and more appreciation for this show. And I have decided that Stanley is my favorite character on the show. :) It was fun, except most of the guys there were with a girl. PDA was kinda rampant. But that's okay, I focused on the good stuff: The Office. :)
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Trials and Photoshoots
I love the fact that Heavenly Father knows me and He knows exactly what I need.
I had a major trial today. I could have gotten incredibly angry, frustrated, irrational as a result of it.
You know what I did instead?
Okay, so I got pictures done by an AMAZING photographer names Mike Schiffler, and seriously, he does wonders with a camera. Anyways, here are three of my favorites.
I think this first one is my favorite one of all. I just, yeah. I think it shows ME the best at least. Any of you look in the mirror, see one person, and then look at photographs of yourself and think you don't look like the person in the picture? I know, I am weird, but I really see someone different in the mirror than what I see in pictures. Well, this first one I think actually looks like the person in the mirror.
I like this one a LOT.
This one...I don't know, I just think I am glowing in this picture. Perhaps it is because I am white. :) (And no, the whiteness of my skin in this picture isn't any trick of the camera. That is the actual color of my skin. I have tried a tanning salon, and all I got out of that was burn after burn. I gave up on tanned skin at that point. So I will always glow in pictures. :) )
That's all. I have TONS more, but I really like these. Should I use one of these for my profile picture?? :) If you want to see the rest of them, come on over!
I had a major trial today. I could have gotten incredibly angry, frustrated, irrational as a result of it.
You know what I did instead?
- Took a breath and called my best friend. She listened, we talked.
- Texted my sister, and she poured out her love and her advice to me.
- Had a great day at work, very productive. Way over productive actually.
- Discovered I am getting paid tomorrow (NOT next week, yay!)
- Went to institute, and the lesson was tailor-made for me in my situation. Go figure!
- I HAVE SOMETHING TO DO THIS WEEKEND!!! YAY! With friends who will stay with me and who I can trust.
Okay, so I got pictures done by an AMAZING photographer names Mike Schiffler, and seriously, he does wonders with a camera. Anyways, here are three of my favorites.
I think this first one is my favorite one of all. I just, yeah. I think it shows ME the best at least. Any of you look in the mirror, see one person, and then look at photographs of yourself and think you don't look like the person in the picture? I know, I am weird, but I really see someone different in the mirror than what I see in pictures. Well, this first one I think actually looks like the person in the mirror.
I like this one a LOT.
This one...I don't know, I just think I am glowing in this picture. Perhaps it is because I am white. :) (And no, the whiteness of my skin in this picture isn't any trick of the camera. That is the actual color of my skin. I have tried a tanning salon, and all I got out of that was burn after burn. I gave up on tanned skin at that point. So I will always glow in pictures. :) )
That's all. I have TONS more, but I really like these. Should I use one of these for my profile picture?? :) If you want to see the rest of them, come on over!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Airports
Albuquerque Sunport Updated their internet service! I am so happy. Last time I was flying out of this airport, I tried several times on this very computer to connect to their wireless service and failed. It really is a good way to pass the time while waiting for your flight.
Southwest Airlines has this new thing where you still have boarding groups, but you are assigned a number in the boarding group. It is kinda like the old way of doing things, when they had those plastic vouchers that they passed out to everyone (who knows how many colds were passed around because of those plastic passes). Anyways, I kinda like it, cause now you don't have to sit on the floor for an hour waiting for the plane to start boarding.
Actually, this is the first time in a long time that I am boarding like a normal person. The last year and a half I preboarded because of my lovely knee. I had to get the front row to accommodate the fact that I couldn't bend my knee completely and the fact that I needed to stretch it out.
At the Phoenix Airport, they have these internet benches where you can put your laptop on it and plug it in. It is a nice concept, but they all need to come with chairs to sit on. And they need to make the benches big enough to accommodate as many laptops as there are plugs. Keep trying! :)
I like flying. I have had very few experiences where I didn't like flying. Once it was because of the weather. Flying into Dallas is never fun I have decided, and at all costs I am going to avoid ever flying into that airport again. Once in high school (first time I was flying without my parents) my flight couldn't land because of the weather, and then our plane was running out of fuel, so we had to land in Lubbock (another airport I would rather avoid) forced us to stay on the plane while they refueled and waited for the okay to fly again, and of course by the time we landed in Dallas I had missed any sort of connector to Washington DC. I had to stay in a hotel, get 2 hours sleep, make the majorly early morning flight to DC, and then play an audition that day. I got LAST chair in the cello section. LAST!
Otherwise I heartily enjoy it. In fact, I often know one or two people on my flight now. On my flight from Phoenix to Albuquerque, I ran into my high school senior year student body president. We had a really fun time catching up on all the people that we used to know. I knew more than he did. I reprimanded him for not doing a five year reunion (he had NO idea that he was supposed to at least have a small gathering) and informed him that the ten year reunion was not an option. :) I can't wait to inform a bunch of my friends that I saw him. He is living in Phoenix now. We swapped numbers, so we will be in touch. I betcha I am going to be roped into helping plan the ten year reunion. :) I wouldn't mind actually. It would be really good to see what has happened to everyone. A lot of people are married, have kids. A lot have their degrees. I for one look a TON different. I used to weigh a ton more than I do now, and really, I didn't look very good. I didn't do my hair, makeup, anything until I hit college actually.
Well, happy flying! I will be in Phoenix in about...2 hours and 7 minutes...hopefully. :)
Southwest Airlines has this new thing where you still have boarding groups, but you are assigned a number in the boarding group. It is kinda like the old way of doing things, when they had those plastic vouchers that they passed out to everyone (who knows how many colds were passed around because of those plastic passes). Anyways, I kinda like it, cause now you don't have to sit on the floor for an hour waiting for the plane to start boarding.
Actually, this is the first time in a long time that I am boarding like a normal person. The last year and a half I preboarded because of my lovely knee. I had to get the front row to accommodate the fact that I couldn't bend my knee completely and the fact that I needed to stretch it out.
At the Phoenix Airport, they have these internet benches where you can put your laptop on it and plug it in. It is a nice concept, but they all need to come with chairs to sit on. And they need to make the benches big enough to accommodate as many laptops as there are plugs. Keep trying! :)
I like flying. I have had very few experiences where I didn't like flying. Once it was because of the weather. Flying into Dallas is never fun I have decided, and at all costs I am going to avoid ever flying into that airport again. Once in high school (first time I was flying without my parents) my flight couldn't land because of the weather, and then our plane was running out of fuel, so we had to land in Lubbock (another airport I would rather avoid) forced us to stay on the plane while they refueled and waited for the okay to fly again, and of course by the time we landed in Dallas I had missed any sort of connector to Washington DC. I had to stay in a hotel, get 2 hours sleep, make the majorly early morning flight to DC, and then play an audition that day. I got LAST chair in the cello section. LAST!
Otherwise I heartily enjoy it. In fact, I often know one or two people on my flight now. On my flight from Phoenix to Albuquerque, I ran into my high school senior year student body president. We had a really fun time catching up on all the people that we used to know. I knew more than he did. I reprimanded him for not doing a five year reunion (he had NO idea that he was supposed to at least have a small gathering) and informed him that the ten year reunion was not an option. :) I can't wait to inform a bunch of my friends that I saw him. He is living in Phoenix now. We swapped numbers, so we will be in touch. I betcha I am going to be roped into helping plan the ten year reunion. :) I wouldn't mind actually. It would be really good to see what has happened to everyone. A lot of people are married, have kids. A lot have their degrees. I for one look a TON different. I used to weigh a ton more than I do now, and really, I didn't look very good. I didn't do my hair, makeup, anything until I hit college actually.
Well, happy flying! I will be in Phoenix in about...2 hours and 7 minutes...hopefully. :)
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Movie Review: Enchanted
Girls, go and see it. The first 10 minutes, as my sister said as we were walking out of the theater, is comprised of an hour long Disney Princess movie in cartoon...which then moves into real life actors. It is totally cute and funny. Evidently my Uncle Kent actually liked the movie, so guys, you may want to check this movie out as well. Young and old will enjoy this movie.
Plus, McDreamy is in it. What else could you ask for??? :)
Warning: like all good Disney Princess movies, you will have a bunch of new songs in your head, but they are totally cute.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Thankful
I am thankful for:
- A loving Heavenly Father who knows everything
- A loving Savior who suffered everything
- The Holy Ghost who guides and directs me, comforts and encourages me
- My Mom and Dad
- My sister, Emily
- My Aunts, Uncles, cousins (whether first or second or third cousins 5 times removed) who are all a part of my life
- My friends!!!!
- My education
- Food
- Chocolate
- The chance I have to serve others
- Blessings of all shapes and sizes
- Being home
- My trials
- My talents
- My strengths
- Living oracles
- MUSIC!!!
- Trees, flowers, animals, the things that make this world so beautiful
- Antibiotics
- Ellipticals
- Day after Thanksgiving sales
- okay, you get the idea. I am just plain grateful. Good night, ya'll!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
directing you............
Here!
IF by chance you don't see what should catch your eye (meaning something new shows up on the website)...just scroll down a bit. You will see it.
IF by chance you don't see what should catch your eye (meaning something new shows up on the website)...just scroll down a bit. You will see it.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Intimidating and traveling
Today at work I discovered that I am intimidating. Why? Because:
(Drum roll please).....................................................
I nearly have a master's degree in Music Theory.
Yes, this is why I am intimidating.
Yes, I, Elizabeth, am intimidating.
I would have expected because I am seriously a giant when it comes to females (I am all of 6' baby).
The guy at work who said I was intimidating is a member of my Church, is even taller than me (he's married, so no! Becky) and is an electric guitarist. When he found out I was a classical musician, and that I nearly have a Master's degree in Music, I guess he about died right there. You see, I agreed to perform at the company Christmas party as part of a group. (Reva, where can I get a good electric hookup for my cello??) We are NOT doing classical music, it's all country and, well, Barry Manilow, Queen, kinda random songs actually. Not Christmas songs. It's really a New Year's party and they just don't know it. :) It's to celebrate all the wonderful things the company has done. Anyways, I am intimidated by the repertoire, cause I really haven't done much of anything outside of classical and sacred music when it comes to my cello. And there won't be any written music. I am rather dependent on the "written word" so to speak, so this may get interesting...
Update on sickness: I feel better, although I got progressively worse at work. Not bad enough to go home. I don't think I have a fever anymore. Ears are plugged up, and I am just praying that that will change by tomorrow night.
You see, I am going home for Thanksgiving for the first time in 4 years. Last year I was with Amber
for Thanksgiving, and the year before that I was with ex-boyfriend Mark
for Thanksgiving (I originally was going to post this AWFUL picture of him, but I decided to be kind...most of the pictures I have of him somehow were misplaced in the recycle bin...but I found three more, I suppose I will keep them) and the year before that with Lindsey (unable to locate digital picture of her, will add picture ASAP)
Unfortunately, I am stuck in Arizona for Christmas. I would rather have it the other way around. But, rules are rules, and although I am the first in line to have the Eve of Christmas off, they won't let another person go. The only way I could get the day off is if someone on my team that already has the day off changes their mind...fat chance of that happening.
I am not really stuck though. I have lots of family here, so it won't be horrible. AND my family will be coming over for New Year's just a few days later. Too bad they can't spend Christmas here. That would be awesome.
Anyways, I will have 5 (really, 4 1/2) glorious days away from work and with the fam. Who hoo.
Monday, November 19, 2007
sick and crazy
I went to bed REALLY early last night (Sunday) so that I could wake up early, go to the store, and make Green Chili Chicken Enchilada casserole...Becky's amazing recipe! Made it, took it to work (it barely made it there, I am still mad at the Pontiac Vibe that made me slam on my brakes!), it was a big hit. Well, I woke up feeling pretty good. Got to work feeling good. Then about an hour into work, it hit.
It was like I was instantly hit with sickness. Why? WHY? The week of Thanksgiving, it had to be this week. Seriously people, I was freezing cold, chills galore, achy, major headache, and I could hardly breathe. Of course, I forgot my inhaler today. Of all days, today. So yes, the whole nine yards. Seriously, I don't know how I made it home. I called my visiting teacher, bishops wife, good friends who live in the ward just north of me, found an urgent care center, got a priesthood blessing, got meds, and I slept for 1 1/2 hours...kind of. It was more...I need to get over the chills, so I lay there freezing (wearing sweater, long sleeve shirt, sweat pants, socks, and like 3 thick blankets). There I was shivering to death. Finally, I started feeling a little more normal. So here I am, writing a blog.
Oh, it's a sinus infection that went to town. He said I also have ... pleurisy, which is when the cartilage around your ribs gets all inflamed and they hurt and it is hard to breathe. He gave me antibiotics that are for both sinus infections and pneumonia...just in case. It was the fastest trip to Urgent Care I have ever had. Seriously, I was in and out in 20 minutes. It was great.
At least my food was a big hit. I hope I didn't get anyone else sick from it. One of my coworkers said she has been feeling like that for a while, so I don't think I did. Anyways, they all went downstairs and nuked the food to get it piping hot, so that should have killed everything.
Hopefully.
It was like I was instantly hit with sickness. Why? WHY? The week of Thanksgiving, it had to be this week. Seriously people, I was freezing cold, chills galore, achy, major headache, and I could hardly breathe. Of course, I forgot my inhaler today. Of all days, today. So yes, the whole nine yards. Seriously, I don't know how I made it home. I called my visiting teacher, bishops wife, good friends who live in the ward just north of me, found an urgent care center, got a priesthood blessing, got meds, and I slept for 1 1/2 hours...kind of. It was more...I need to get over the chills, so I lay there freezing (wearing sweater, long sleeve shirt, sweat pants, socks, and like 3 thick blankets). There I was shivering to death. Finally, I started feeling a little more normal. So here I am, writing a blog.
Oh, it's a sinus infection that went to town. He said I also have ... pleurisy, which is when the cartilage around your ribs gets all inflamed and they hurt and it is hard to breathe. He gave me antibiotics that are for both sinus infections and pneumonia...just in case. It was the fastest trip to Urgent Care I have ever had. Seriously, I was in and out in 20 minutes. It was great.
At least my food was a big hit. I hope I didn't get anyone else sick from it. One of my coworkers said she has been feeling like that for a while, so I don't think I did. Anyways, they all went downstairs and nuked the food to get it piping hot, so that should have killed everything.
Hopefully.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Family
I am SO grateful for family. I really don't know what I would do without them. I love my family so much. They are so wonderful. They all want the best for me. They build me up when I need it, and in return I try and do the same. It is days like today that make me so grateful to know that I am sealed to these people for time and eternity.
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Thought for the day: If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear. This is true. My car has this rather not so lovely coolant leak that I discovered today. Well, I had to drive to Casa Grande and back today. So I put a ton of water in the back so that if my car really did start overheating, I would at the very least have water to put into the car and move it a little further down the road. Now, I didn't need to use it, but I was not afraid of my car breaking down, because if it did I would be able to take care of the situation.
Now...how I am getting to work Monday morning may be a little more tricky, as I am in stop and go traffic most of the way. My car is fine if there isn't a lot of stop and go traffic, but if there is...well, hopefully a good number of people are taking the whole week off and I don't have to worry about traffic. :) Yeah, wishful thinking right? :)
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Thought for the day: If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear. This is true. My car has this rather not so lovely coolant leak that I discovered today. Well, I had to drive to Casa Grande and back today. So I put a ton of water in the back so that if my car really did start overheating, I would at the very least have water to put into the car and move it a little further down the road. Now, I didn't need to use it, but I was not afraid of my car breaking down, because if it did I would be able to take care of the situation.
Now...how I am getting to work Monday morning may be a little more tricky, as I am in stop and go traffic most of the way. My car is fine if there isn't a lot of stop and go traffic, but if there is...well, hopefully a good number of people are taking the whole week off and I don't have to worry about traffic. :) Yeah, wishful thinking right? :)
Thursday, November 15, 2007
I am a girl
So, I am getting really nice pictures done today, so I take a sick day, and what do I do to prepare?
1. Eyebrows waxed (had to do it early, so they wouldn't be red and swollen this afternoon)
2. Shower
3. Makeup done by Lancome artist at Macy's (it looked fabulous...in fact, I haven't washed it off yet...)
4. Manicure
5. Hair styled
6. Opinions from cousin and Aunt on what to wear
Yes, I am a girl. :) But I was a good looking one today at least. I haven't pampered myself like that in a long time, especially a manicure. I got French tips. Never had that done before, I kinda like it. Good option for when you are a cellist in demand and have to have short fingernails.
I LOVE my new hairstyle. You will see it soon enough. LOVE it, thank you soooo much Janel!
1. Eyebrows waxed (had to do it early, so they wouldn't be red and swollen this afternoon)
2. Shower
3. Makeup done by Lancome artist at Macy's (it looked fabulous...in fact, I haven't washed it off yet...)
4. Manicure
5. Hair styled
6. Opinions from cousin and Aunt on what to wear
Yes, I am a girl. :) But I was a good looking one today at least. I haven't pampered myself like that in a long time, especially a manicure. I got French tips. Never had that done before, I kinda like it. Good option for when you are a cellist in demand and have to have short fingernails.
I LOVE my new hairstyle. You will see it soon enough. LOVE it, thank you soooo much Janel!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
sick days and non-photogenicness...
I am going to be *cough cough* sick tomorrow. :) I get to run all kinds of errands, and I can't wait, cause they NEED to get done. Gonna work out in the morning, wash my car, get house cleaned, institute that night, AND my friend Mike from Alabama is going to do a photo shoot with me in the afternoon! So excited! He offered, he is in town and he is amazing at what he does, so I just couldn't say no...
I am just afraid I might break the camera. I really am not photogenic, and when I am it's just luck, but perhaps this will change my mind. Maybe I just over analyze. Here are some examples of photos of me: (Granted, they are not professional by any means.)
I just look...weird. See. Granted, I have a bunch of finger things on my fingers. They might even have been rings that were to small actually. But see the face. See that gumline??? Yeah. I look old in this picture.
Here I am with one of Aimee's daughters. Now, this is, I admit, a good picture. BUT, check out that smiler...you see what I am talking about? For this being a "Hey, hang on a sec, smile at the camera" picture, where I am holding the camera, this is a dang good picture. Seriously, I took the picture a second after she turned around with me down beside her. Pretty nice, huh? Maybe that's what I need, no prep. :)
Okay, this one is just plain bad. No makeup, 4 hours sleep. See, Becky, she looks great, but do you see me?? Yikes!
Here I am with cousin Kent and the newlyweds (at the time) Scott and Penny . Am I trying to be a giraffe or something? I am sticking my chin out like crazy!
I think I am on drugs on this one or something. This was last Christmas/New Year's at cousin Kent's wedding reception. You see the eyes? That happens a lot. I DON'T UNDERSTAND! Why? Why do my eyes go all retarded? To the left is my cute Mom. Yeah, I dwarf her. :) Actually, I was wearing heals that night, and they killed. I was dating Warren at the time. In fact, he was on his way to meet me there in Arizona at that time. :( That was when we were crazy about each other.
I do have to admit, the hair was working it that night in that last picture! :) I had just gotten it colored and cut. Pretty fab, I think.
But again, the smiler. Much straighter than they were pre-January of 2005, but still, that gumline! Gah!
Here's to having a good photo shoot tomorrow...
(anyone notice that I figured out how to use the hyperlink thingy? Yeah, discovered that tonight)
I am just afraid I might break the camera. I really am not photogenic, and when I am it's just luck, but perhaps this will change my mind. Maybe I just over analyze. Here are some examples of photos of me: (Granted, they are not professional by any means.)
I just look...weird. See. Granted, I have a bunch of finger things on my fingers. They might even have been rings that were to small actually. But see the face. See that gumline??? Yeah. I look old in this picture.
Here I am with one of Aimee's daughters. Now, this is, I admit, a good picture. BUT, check out that smiler...you see what I am talking about? For this being a "Hey, hang on a sec, smile at the camera" picture, where I am holding the camera, this is a dang good picture. Seriously, I took the picture a second after she turned around with me down beside her. Pretty nice, huh? Maybe that's what I need, no prep. :)
Okay, this one is just plain bad. No makeup, 4 hours sleep. See, Becky, she looks great, but do you see me?? Yikes!
Here I am with cousin Kent and the newlyweds (at the time) Scott and Penny . Am I trying to be a giraffe or something? I am sticking my chin out like crazy!
I think I am on drugs on this one or something. This was last Christmas/New Year's at cousin Kent's wedding reception. You see the eyes? That happens a lot. I DON'T UNDERSTAND! Why? Why do my eyes go all retarded? To the left is my cute Mom. Yeah, I dwarf her. :) Actually, I was wearing heals that night, and they killed. I was dating Warren at the time. In fact, he was on his way to meet me there in Arizona at that time. :( That was when we were crazy about each other.
I do have to admit, the hair was working it that night in that last picture! :) I had just gotten it colored and cut. Pretty fab, I think.
But again, the smiler. Much straighter than they were pre-January of 2005, but still, that gumline! Gah!
Here's to having a good photo shoot tomorrow...
(anyone notice that I figured out how to use the hyperlink thingy? Yeah, discovered that tonight)
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Sabbath
My Sunbeams were just as crazy as usual. Each one is soooo different. I had 5 today. I am getting 5 more often than not now, where when I first was called I averaged 3, so that's a good sign. I discovered today that although the craziest of my kids is bouncing off the wall the whole time and making it very difficult for me to teach the other ones anything, he really is listening. We talked about being reverent today. The story from the scriptures we used was Moses and the burning bush, and how Moses was commanded to remove the shoes from his feet to show reverence. To see if they had actually heard the story amid all the craziness of one the Sunbeams, I asked the question "So how did Moses show reverence?" and "Why did Moses remove his shoes?" Well, the one Sunbeam who just is so full of energy, he stopped, looked me in the eye and answered both of those questions like a pro. I about cried for joy to know that he heard the stories, and I have to believe it wasn't anything I did, but that it was the Lord.
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Another cousin joined the crew of bloggers. She is actually my second cousin, Marla. My Mom and her Mom are first cousins (for the cousins who check in on my blog, it's Pat's daughter). She is totally awesome and cool, especially right now cause she is IN Israel doing all kinds of cool stuff like doing an archaeological dig, going on a boat on the Sea of Galilee, seeing all those sites that we read about in the Bible. Yeah, she is pretty much the coolest person in the world right now.
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Spirit said move your records into the University 6th Ward. So come January 1st, 2008 I will be leaving my family ward and going to the singles ward. It's changed a lot, there are some oldtimers still around but a lot of the people in the ward are new. New Bishopric, although the first counselor was in the old Bishopric when I was there. It will be good I think.
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Should I take a sick day tomorrow? We will see how I feel in the morning. I am not sick, but I am sick and tired of the commute, the gossiping, etc. I have been put on a couple of 'special projects' lately, so that is good, and I think I may be put on another this week, but...I mean, I still get paid if I take a sick day. :) Eh, maybe next week.
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Another cousin joined the crew of bloggers. She is actually my second cousin, Marla. My Mom and her Mom are first cousins (for the cousins who check in on my blog, it's Pat's daughter). She is totally awesome and cool, especially right now cause she is IN Israel doing all kinds of cool stuff like doing an archaeological dig, going on a boat on the Sea of Galilee, seeing all those sites that we read about in the Bible. Yeah, she is pretty much the coolest person in the world right now.
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Spirit said move your records into the University 6th Ward. So come January 1st, 2008 I will be leaving my family ward and going to the singles ward. It's changed a lot, there are some oldtimers still around but a lot of the people in the ward are new. New Bishopric, although the first counselor was in the old Bishopric when I was there. It will be good I think.
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Should I take a sick day tomorrow? We will see how I feel in the morning. I am not sick, but I am sick and tired of the commute, the gossiping, etc. I have been put on a couple of 'special projects' lately, so that is good, and I think I may be put on another this week, but...I mean, I still get paid if I take a sick day. :) Eh, maybe next week.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
blahblahblogging and squishyness
:) My sister and cousin are the new ones on the block for blogging. :) Yay! Really, I think blogging is wonderful. I love it at least.
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I didn't go on a road trip this weekend. Was going to, but I had SOOO much I needed to do, so I didn't go. I did all the stuff I needed to do rather than wanted to do. Such as getting my car into the shop, getting the oil changed, tires rotated, new air filter, etc. Very important on a vehicle that is about to reach 200,000 miles. Yep, I have put nearly 140,000 miles on this sucker. I still can't believe how well it is running right now. I promise I will take a picture when it reaches 200,000 miles. Even if I am late to work, I will pull off the side of the road and get a picture. :)
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I am going to play laser tag tonight. It's been years, and I have to admit...I love playing laser tag. It seems no one else does though, including my friend who invited me and put the whole thing together. I just think it's a lot of fun. Like paintball...except you don't have any welts afterward.
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Met this rather lovely guy last night, 28, from California, works for some big computer company, totally ripped, taller than me, named Mike. Seriously, the man was hot. Weirdest thing, and it will take a bit to explain the weirdness, so bear with me: By the end of the night the group of us had gotten to know each other pretty well, so we all hugged when we were saying goodbye. Now, I am used to hugging cause I LOVE to hug, and I especially love hugging guys. Go to hug him and...his muscles were rocks! Now, I am used to a little squishy or a lot squishy. I am even used to skinny, no squish, but you know, ribs sticking out. He is not squishy at all. Seriously, this guy was all muscle. (That was what was weird, yeah I know I am weird for thinking that that is weird) Now, some girls might find that really attractive, him being all ripped and all, but I have to say, after that hug, I really don't find that attractive. I much prefer at least a little squishy. It was kind of an awkward hug anyways, so maybe that was the problem, and if we were better friends maybe it would have been a better hug.
Although, I did very much admire his arms. :)
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FYI, I worked out every day this week. EVERY day! Aren't you proud of me? :) No weight loss, but hopefully with the muscle gain my metabolism will kick in a little more.
Oh, and I can FINALLY do a real sit up. Embarrassing, but I have never really been able to do a sit up...ever. I would have to get some momentum to get myself up. Well, my abs are now barely able to pull me up. LOTS of shaking, but at least that's something, right? I tell you what, my abs and back sure get sore. I do all kinds of sit-ups and core strengthening exercises as well as a standard sit up. Not for too long though, cause that wouldn't help anything I think. Moderating my exercise. I am starting to notice a difference. I am holding myself a little differently. Kind of exciting.
------------------------------------------------
That's all, folks!
---------------------------------------------
I didn't go on a road trip this weekend. Was going to, but I had SOOO much I needed to do, so I didn't go. I did all the stuff I needed to do rather than wanted to do. Such as getting my car into the shop, getting the oil changed, tires rotated, new air filter, etc. Very important on a vehicle that is about to reach 200,000 miles. Yep, I have put nearly 140,000 miles on this sucker. I still can't believe how well it is running right now. I promise I will take a picture when it reaches 200,000 miles. Even if I am late to work, I will pull off the side of the road and get a picture. :)
--------------------------------------------
I am going to play laser tag tonight. It's been years, and I have to admit...I love playing laser tag. It seems no one else does though, including my friend who invited me and put the whole thing together. I just think it's a lot of fun. Like paintball...except you don't have any welts afterward.
---------------------------------------------
Met this rather lovely guy last night, 28, from California, works for some big computer company, totally ripped, taller than me, named Mike. Seriously, the man was hot. Weirdest thing, and it will take a bit to explain the weirdness, so bear with me: By the end of the night the group of us had gotten to know each other pretty well, so we all hugged when we were saying goodbye. Now, I am used to hugging cause I LOVE to hug, and I especially love hugging guys. Go to hug him and...his muscles were rocks! Now, I am used to a little squishy or a lot squishy. I am even used to skinny, no squish, but you know, ribs sticking out. He is not squishy at all. Seriously, this guy was all muscle. (That was what was weird, yeah I know I am weird for thinking that that is weird) Now, some girls might find that really attractive, him being all ripped and all, but I have to say, after that hug, I really don't find that attractive. I much prefer at least a little squishy. It was kind of an awkward hug anyways, so maybe that was the problem, and if we were better friends maybe it would have been a better hug.
Although, I did very much admire his arms. :)
----------------------------------------------
FYI, I worked out every day this week. EVERY day! Aren't you proud of me? :) No weight loss, but hopefully with the muscle gain my metabolism will kick in a little more.
Oh, and I can FINALLY do a real sit up. Embarrassing, but I have never really been able to do a sit up...ever. I would have to get some momentum to get myself up. Well, my abs are now barely able to pull me up. LOTS of shaking, but at least that's something, right? I tell you what, my abs and back sure get sore. I do all kinds of sit-ups and core strengthening exercises as well as a standard sit up. Not for too long though, cause that wouldn't help anything I think. Moderating my exercise. I am starting to notice a difference. I am holding myself a little differently. Kind of exciting.
------------------------------------------------
That's all, folks!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
ode to friends
"Never shall I forget the days I spent with you. Continue to be my friend, as you will always find me yours."
- Ludwig van Beethoven
Two of my best friends called me tonight, and we really talked. It wasn't one of those quick conversations that get interrupted by normal proceedings of life.
One friend called me. She asked me some questions about music theory to make sure she was right(just like old times). She talked about her life. And then she asked the key question: How are you doing? And she pushed it. You know what, I answered truthfully, and she really listened. That is a mark of a good friend. Near the end of this conversation, my other friend called. I called her back, and we talked as well. And I listened to her, and she to me.
I NEEDED THAT TONIGHT. Talking makes a HUGE difference. That is why counselors are really good to have. Just to talk to. No matter what profession, what calling, what situation, everyone needs someone to report to who is either experienced in your situation or is in tune with the Spirit (preferably both). We become better when we are called to repentance and truly listen to and heed counsel. We are better when we know that someone else knows, is listening, and wants better for you and is cheering you on.
That is why prayer is so important.
All through grade school I didn't have one truly good/best friend. Maybe once in Lompoc, CA. But really, I didn't have someone I could just talk with, hang out with, you know...just be buddies with. Never had a best friend. I realize now I must have been REALLY retarded in high school.
I prayed. I asked for a friend. I asked for just one really good friend ever since I realized I really didn't have any. I asked to help me to be a good friend. I tried to be a good friend to others, and I think towards the end of high school I made a tiny bit of progress...but still, no friend.
Then I moved to Arizona. Still, no best friend. Freshman year of college, I kinda knew a few people, could call some of them, went to some things. Got invited to a party, that was cool.
Sophomore year is the magical year. I didn't just get one. I got three. THREE! I was truly blessed. The two that called me tonight are among those three. Thanks to them, you have what you know as me. Seriously, they worked a number on me. Introvert became Extrovert. Fashion deficient went to...well, I would dress REALLY well if I had more money, but I do all right. No make-up went to being a self proclaimed make-up artist (see Halloween picture). Self-conscious went to...I mean, I kissed a guy that I am not dating the other night...self-conscious? Whatever! :) I learned so much from them, and still am. They never cease to amaze me with their insight, their amazing powers, their abilities, etc. I am the musician, the woman, the latter-day saint I am today partially because of these women. One of my most common repeated phrases in my prayers is "Thank thee SOOOOOOO much for my friends." I am sincere EVERY SINGLE TIME. What I would do without them...I don't know.
Thank you, my friends.
- Ludwig van Beethoven
Two of my best friends called me tonight, and we really talked. It wasn't one of those quick conversations that get interrupted by normal proceedings of life.
One friend called me. She asked me some questions about music theory to make sure she was right(just like old times). She talked about her life. And then she asked the key question: How are you doing? And she pushed it. You know what, I answered truthfully, and she really listened. That is a mark of a good friend. Near the end of this conversation, my other friend called. I called her back, and we talked as well. And I listened to her, and she to me.
I NEEDED THAT TONIGHT. Talking makes a HUGE difference. That is why counselors are really good to have. Just to talk to. No matter what profession, what calling, what situation, everyone needs someone to report to who is either experienced in your situation or is in tune with the Spirit (preferably both). We become better when we are called to repentance and truly listen to and heed counsel. We are better when we know that someone else knows, is listening, and wants better for you and is cheering you on.
That is why prayer is so important.
All through grade school I didn't have one truly good/best friend. Maybe once in Lompoc, CA. But really, I didn't have someone I could just talk with, hang out with, you know...just be buddies with. Never had a best friend. I realize now I must have been REALLY retarded in high school.
I prayed. I asked for a friend. I asked for just one really good friend ever since I realized I really didn't have any. I asked to help me to be a good friend. I tried to be a good friend to others, and I think towards the end of high school I made a tiny bit of progress...but still, no friend.
Then I moved to Arizona. Still, no best friend. Freshman year of college, I kinda knew a few people, could call some of them, went to some things. Got invited to a party, that was cool.
Sophomore year is the magical year. I didn't just get one. I got three. THREE! I was truly blessed. The two that called me tonight are among those three. Thanks to them, you have what you know as me. Seriously, they worked a number on me. Introvert became Extrovert. Fashion deficient went to...well, I would dress REALLY well if I had more money, but I do all right. No make-up went to being a self proclaimed make-up artist (see Halloween picture). Self-conscious went to...I mean, I kissed a guy that I am not dating the other night...self-conscious? Whatever! :) I learned so much from them, and still am. They never cease to amaze me with their insight, their amazing powers, their abilities, etc. I am the musician, the woman, the latter-day saint I am today partially because of these women. One of my most common repeated phrases in my prayers is "Thank thee SOOOOOOO much for my friends." I am sincere EVERY SINGLE TIME. What I would do without them...I don't know.
Thank you, my friends.
Friday, November 2, 2007
people pretending to be musicians...
So I got on the Arizona teacher testing website where you get certified to teach in the State of Arizona and are tested in specialized areas. I look at their music section, and it gives a sample test. One of the questions, they show 6 TRIADS and ask which one is in third inversion. PROBLEM: they are triads. To have a third inversion, you have to have MORE than 3 pitches in the chord. For a triad, there is root position (triad stacked in thirds, root, third, fifth in ascending order) , first (root above fifth) and second (root and third above fifth) inversion. IDIOTS!
THEN there is a very interesting question:
To evaluate how effectively a composer
has established a motive in musical work,
it is most important for the listener to
consider the composer's use of:
A. repetition.
B. contrast.
C. variation.
D. sequence.
I would very much like to know what their answer is. THEY ALL establish the motive, and you can use ANY of them to establish it. Of course, repetition would occur, but you have to change in up to keep things interesting (Beethoven's fifth, du du du duuuuuuu, over and over and over again, but they are different!), play off of it, create variations, and then make a sequence. For example, the OTHER movements of Beethoven's fifth. Everyone, take out your mp3 online server of choice and listen to, say, movement 2 of Beethoven's fifth. The motive is there, just listen. It is just a bit different. You would be amazed how many pieces actually pay homage to Beethoven by using this motive. Anyways, I suppose their correct answer would be repetition, but seriously people!
This one made me laugh:
Which of the following exercises would
be the most effective way to keep the
percussion section of a middle school
band effectively engaged while other
sections are learning their parts?
A. hum the part that each section
practices
B. listen for errors made by each
section
C. read their own parts while each
section plays
D. perform as the metronome for each
section
:) Any drummers out there? :)
FYI, I am better today. Got 2 hours of overtime, went to institute, and that was fabulous, saw friends, and came home in a much better mood. AND I got another call for a roommate today. She is coming by Sunday...hopefully this will turn into something good!
Going to bed. Night!
THEN there is a very interesting question:
To evaluate how effectively a composer
has established a motive in musical work,
it is most important for the listener to
consider the composer's use of:
A. repetition.
B. contrast.
C. variation.
D. sequence.
I would very much like to know what their answer is. THEY ALL establish the motive, and you can use ANY of them to establish it. Of course, repetition would occur, but you have to change in up to keep things interesting (Beethoven's fifth, du du du duuuuuuu, over and over and over again, but they are different!), play off of it, create variations, and then make a sequence. For example, the OTHER movements of Beethoven's fifth. Everyone, take out your mp3 online server of choice and listen to, say, movement 2 of Beethoven's fifth. The motive is there, just listen. It is just a bit different. You would be amazed how many pieces actually pay homage to Beethoven by using this motive. Anyways, I suppose their correct answer would be repetition, but seriously people!
This one made me laugh:
Which of the following exercises would
be the most effective way to keep the
percussion section of a middle school
band effectively engaged while other
sections are learning their parts?
A. hum the part that each section
practices
B. listen for errors made by each
section
C. read their own parts while each
section plays
D. perform as the metronome for each
section
:) Any drummers out there? :)
FYI, I am better today. Got 2 hours of overtime, went to institute, and that was fabulous, saw friends, and came home in a much better mood. AND I got another call for a roommate today. She is coming by Sunday...hopefully this will turn into something good!
Going to bed. Night!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
lonely
I hate being alone. At least tonight it is really bothering me. Halloween is usually a really fun holiday for me. The weekend was fun, but the day is usually fabulous. The trick or treaters came, Janel, Denise and Aunt Dianne came with the kids to the door and that was fun.
Then I went to this party that wasn't an LDS sponsered activity, (didn't know that until I got there). It was "clean" meaning no drugs and alcohol, but I saw a group of them drinking in the parking lot, so a lot of good that did. The costumes were okay for the most part, but some people...why were they wearing anything? I mean...well, anyways.
I went to this party alone figuring some of my friends would be there. Well, they weren't. Probably because they are smarter than I am. I was there for 1 1/2 hours looking for people I knew. I tried once or twice to talk with some people, but it failed. One guy was wearing a Bama cap, and that was cool...but that was about the only highlight of the night. So I left. I did this stinking amazing makeup job, (way better than the other night...no pictures, sorry) and all for nothing. Oh well.
Sorry, I am just not enjoying being alone tonight. I am ready for a date. Just one would be great. Or even better...a new friend. Qualifications: single (a must, I have LOTS of married friends, I need to branch out, and all my really good single friends are living outside the boundaries of this state except for just a few, and one seems to have fallen off the planet or something, I haven't heard from her in such a long time, hope she is okay), male or female (doesn't matter), around my age and stage in life, and ultimately forgiving. I will be the first to admit I am not a fabulous friend. I fall flat on my face a LOT. But when I do and I realize that I do, I try to make it up 4 fold.
I just...I drove home tonight by myself to this empty house (which I am trying to fill). I need people!
Ah well. Yeah, yeah, I know, I know, enduring this makes me stronger and will make me soooo grateful when I am with somebody, and just get over it. Okay. I will.
Eh, that's all. Good night.
Then I went to this party that wasn't an LDS sponsered activity, (didn't know that until I got there). It was "clean" meaning no drugs and alcohol, but I saw a group of them drinking in the parking lot, so a lot of good that did. The costumes were okay for the most part, but some people...why were they wearing anything? I mean...well, anyways.
I went to this party alone figuring some of my friends would be there. Well, they weren't. Probably because they are smarter than I am. I was there for 1 1/2 hours looking for people I knew. I tried once or twice to talk with some people, but it failed. One guy was wearing a Bama cap, and that was cool...but that was about the only highlight of the night. So I left. I did this stinking amazing makeup job, (way better than the other night...no pictures, sorry) and all for nothing. Oh well.
Sorry, I am just not enjoying being alone tonight. I am ready for a date. Just one would be great. Or even better...a new friend. Qualifications: single (a must, I have LOTS of married friends, I need to branch out, and all my really good single friends are living outside the boundaries of this state except for just a few, and one seems to have fallen off the planet or something, I haven't heard from her in such a long time, hope she is okay), male or female (doesn't matter), around my age and stage in life, and ultimately forgiving. I will be the first to admit I am not a fabulous friend. I fall flat on my face a LOT. But when I do and I realize that I do, I try to make it up 4 fold.
I just...I drove home tonight by myself to this empty house (which I am trying to fill). I need people!
Ah well. Yeah, yeah, I know, I know, enduring this makes me stronger and will make me soooo grateful when I am with somebody, and just get over it. Okay. I will.
Eh, that's all. Good night.
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