I have been thinking about memorable quotes that have inspired me, rejuvenated me, and motivated me to become more. Each of these have their own story, many of which are very personal and not something I would mention on my blog. However, I am posting them hoping that those out there reading can find your own inspiration and story in these simple yet profound words.
But sometimes our expectations sell us short. Sometimes the expected simply pales in comparison to the unexpected. You've got to wonder why we cling to our expectations. Because the expected is just what keeps us steady. Standing. Still. The expected is just the beginning. The unexpected is what changes our lives.
Nothing in the world is accomplished without passion.
~David McCullough at a BYU Forum
There was this law of life, both so cruel and so just, that demanded one must grow or else pay more for staying the same.
~Norman Mailer
In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.
~Albert Camus
We are born believing.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
It's never too late to be who you might have been.
~George Eliot
We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.
~Goethe
Experience is a hard teacher because she gives the test first, the lesson afterward.
~Vernon Law
To endure is greater than to dare; to tire out hostile fortune; to be daunted by no difficulty; to keep heart when all have lost it; to go through intrigue spotless; to forego even ambition when the end is gained - who can say this is not greatness?
~Thackeray
Adversity has a way of challenging all of us, sooner or later. How we collectively bear up to the pressures of unexpected tragedy, how we care for and honor those who suffer loss, how we hold on to our values despite the seductive lure of simple, quick and easy solutions to the complex problems we face — how we deal with such things defines us forever.
~Gen. John P. Abizaid of the Army, former commander of the United States Central Command
Life is My Adventure
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Validation
My friend Anna, the one who calls me a hopeful romantic, sent me this video in hopes that it would make me smile. It did.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Quote of the Day
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?’
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of the universe; your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are born to make manifest the glory of all that’s within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone.
And as we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
— Nelson Mandela
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of the universe; your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are born to make manifest the glory of all that’s within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone.
And as we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
— Nelson Mandela
Range of Emotions
The range of human emotions amazes me especially when they are all happening at once inside of me. For the most part, I describe myself as a hopeful and passionate person. I have a fiery spirit within me that loves to laugh, to interact with others, and to experience new adventures. My siblings even called me "Born Free" as a child. What other child would you find riding her big wheel down main street?
And yet, the past few months I have had the most difficult time being me. In one day, I've been extremely angry, then incredibly hopeful with all the other emotions in between manifesting themselves too. Add hormones on top of that and some days you have a complete mess. The best way to describe what is happening to me is the Lord is testing my faith.
Faith, to be faith, must center around something that is not known. Faith, to be faith, must go beyond that for which there is confirming evidence. Faith, to be faith, must go into the unknown. Faith, to be faith, must walk to the edge of the light, and then a few steps into the darkness. If everything has to be known, if everything has to be explained, if everything has to be certified, then there is no need for faith. (Elder Boyd K. Packer, "What is Faith," Faith, Deseret Book Company, 1983, p. 42)
So between the laughter and the tears, the anger and the optimism, the love and the complete reliance on the Lord, I am understanding and grateful. Why? Because the Lord hath said, "Verily I say unto you my friends, fear not, let your hearts be comforted; yea, rejoice evermore, and in everything give thanks; Waiting patiently on the Lord, for your prayers have entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, and are recorded with this seal and testament—the Lord hath sworn and decreed that they shall be granted. Therefore, he giveth this promise unto you, with an immutable covenant that they shall be fulfilled; and all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name’s glory"(D&C 98:1-3).
Times of crisis define what truly matters most to us in life and the past month has been no exception. In expressing my frustrations to my brother-in-law, he remarked with an interesting metaphor. He commented, "It's like you're on a game board and you just rolled a six." Couple that comment with Elder Hallstrom's talk from conference "'Men are, that they might have joy' (2 Nephi 2:25) and 'for it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things' (2 Nephi 2:11) are not contradictory; they are complementary" and you have a perfect description of my emotional roller coaster. The six may be rolled, the opposition may be in full force, but somehow I will land and experience the joy that only comes from holding fast to the iron rod and the love of the Lord.
And yet, the past few months I have had the most difficult time being me. In one day, I've been extremely angry, then incredibly hopeful with all the other emotions in between manifesting themselves too. Add hormones on top of that and some days you have a complete mess. The best way to describe what is happening to me is the Lord is testing my faith.
Faith, to be faith, must center around something that is not known. Faith, to be faith, must go beyond that for which there is confirming evidence. Faith, to be faith, must go into the unknown. Faith, to be faith, must walk to the edge of the light, and then a few steps into the darkness. If everything has to be known, if everything has to be explained, if everything has to be certified, then there is no need for faith. (Elder Boyd K. Packer, "What is Faith," Faith, Deseret Book Company, 1983, p. 42)
So between the laughter and the tears, the anger and the optimism, the love and the complete reliance on the Lord, I am understanding and grateful. Why? Because the Lord hath said, "Verily I say unto you my friends, fear not, let your hearts be comforted; yea, rejoice evermore, and in everything give thanks; Waiting patiently on the Lord, for your prayers have entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, and are recorded with this seal and testament—the Lord hath sworn and decreed that they shall be granted. Therefore, he giveth this promise unto you, with an immutable covenant that they shall be fulfilled; and all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name’s glory"(D&C 98:1-3).
Times of crisis define what truly matters most to us in life and the past month has been no exception. In expressing my frustrations to my brother-in-law, he remarked with an interesting metaphor. He commented, "It's like you're on a game board and you just rolled a six." Couple that comment with Elder Hallstrom's talk from conference "'Men are, that they might have joy' (2 Nephi 2:25) and 'for it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things' (2 Nephi 2:11) are not contradictory; they are complementary" and you have a perfect description of my emotional roller coaster. The six may be rolled, the opposition may be in full force, but somehow I will land and experience the joy that only comes from holding fast to the iron rod and the love of the Lord.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Humorous Santa Story
My sister was forwarded this Christmas story she received as part of a friend's Twelve Days of Christmas. I found it funny and thought all of you who needed a good laugh from the stress of work and life would enjoy it too.
The Christmas Tree
One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip… but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones, so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule.
Then, Mrs. Claus told Santa that her mom was coming to visit. This stressed Santa even more. When he want to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out, heaven knows where. More stress.
Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys. So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had taken all the marshmallows and there was nothing to drink.
In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the cocoa mug and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made from. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa went to the door. He opened the door and there was a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.
The angel said, very cheerfully, “Merry Christmas Santa! Isn’t it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn’t it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?”
Thus began the tradition of the little angle on top of the Christmas tree.
The Christmas Tree
One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip… but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones, so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule.
Then, Mrs. Claus told Santa that her mom was coming to visit. This stressed Santa even more. When he want to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out, heaven knows where. More stress.
Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys. So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had taken all the marshmallows and there was nothing to drink.
In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the cocoa mug and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made from. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa went to the door. He opened the door and there was a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.
The angel said, very cheerfully, “Merry Christmas Santa! Isn’t it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn’t it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?”
Thus began the tradition of the little angle on top of the Christmas tree.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Feelings of Christmas
One thing I enjoy about Christmas time is the lights. As a child, I loved sitting by the tree, listening to Christmas music, and staring at the lights. My brother and I would always volunteer to deliver presents to people so we could see the lights around town. Unbeknown to my mom, our outings always took longer than usual because we would seek out the streets with the best light displays.
My favorite place to view lights has always been Temple Square especially with freshly fallen snow. The lights of the temple mixed with the colored displays always brings a peace and comfort to my heart. My favorite memories at Temple Square have always included people I love. Celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with those family and friends holds a special place in my heart. I hope all of you are enjoying this Christmas season. Merry Christmas!
My favorite place to view lights has always been Temple Square especially with freshly fallen snow. The lights of the temple mixed with the colored displays always brings a peace and comfort to my heart. My favorite memories at Temple Square have always included people I love. Celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with those family and friends holds a special place in my heart. I hope all of you are enjoying this Christmas season. Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
A New Adventure
The past year I have searched for many different jobs. Private school administration. Online marketing. University recruiting. Education companies. Big corporations. So many different avenues. I’ve heard many “no” responses and many unanswered responses. In spite of this, I wasn’t discouraged. All the previous jobs I had received came in the most unlikely way and since my life follows patterns, I expected a similar outcome. I will post those stories too as they are quite the ride. I kept plugging away at the job search. After graduation, I tapered off the search as I dealt with the emotional drain from the previous two years, the death of my grandma, and just wanting time to have fun.
In July, the associate dean of BYU’s business school called me. He offered me a project based position to work with diversity recruiting. “Jackpot!” I thought. The school currently had a hiring freeze and I felt this was my ticket in when that freeze was lifted. I played in California the next week, talked with the associate dean a couple of times, and returned from vacation ready to work. As the next few months passed, hope waned that this could turn into a full time position. One day the associate dean warned me warned me that the MBA recruiting position was just approved but just because I was working for him right then did not guarantee I would be hired for the newly approved opening. That message sat with me for a few weeks. Though I applied for the position, I realized that I did not fit with the ideals of the MBA program and the person they wanted in that spot. When I saw that the MBA office had reposted the opening, I emotionally abandoned the opportunity altogether.
Thus began my journey. My grandpa always told us “It isn’t what you know but who you know.” MBA school constantly emphasized the importance of networking to find what you want. I took both to heart and reached out to Taylor, a family friend. I bumped into Taylor in the student center the previous week when I was spending time with a brother-in-law who was in town. What a fortuitous meeting! I emailed Taylor and he spent some time deciding who to introduce me to, what industries to target, and where to focus my energies. I began setting up informational interviews, attending conferences, and reaching out to those who were eager to help me. Each person either suggested a position I could apply for in that company or someone else that would be valuable for me to talk to. The doors began to open!
The week after Thanksgiving I met Joseph. Though we both felt I wasn’t the best fit for his company, he suggested I talk with Michael who worked at a company in Salt Lake. (They provided consulting services and designed training/learning programs to help solve the needs of the companies.) Guess who was also connected to Michael? My new friend Taylor. Taylor introduced Michael and me via email and within the hour Michael responded with openings that matched my interests. Even better, two people had just given their two weeks notice and the company needed to fill the positions quickly. Michael and I discussed the workings of the company and my excitement grew throughout our conversation. He also put me in touch with Anna, the Director of Instructional Design, and she asked for my resume. She immediately responded to my email and invited me in for an interview. Both Michael and Anna’s eagerness to meet with me stemmed from my dual background in education and business.
Two days later after talking with Michael, I was sitting in Anna’s office. I was nervous! I spent six hours the day before preparing for the interview. I've never done that! The first 30 minutes of the interview I took a writing proficiency exam. Basically a dumbed down version of the grammar part of the GMAT. By the way, I maintain one of the questions had no right answer. For those of you who know grammar, I’ll give you the sentences and you can let me know if I am wrong. I was supposed to meet for 30 minutes with Anna in a one-on-one interview but we ended up talking for over an hour! By the end of the interview she said two key important things: 1) I can see you quickly becoming a Lead Designer in the company; 2) When can you start? Needless to say the interview went well and Anna was thrilled to have me part of the team. I start Wednesday which means all of this happened within 1½ weeks! I will be trained/mentored for 3-6 weeks depending on how quickly I pick up the process and protocol. Who are we kidding? It will be three. :) Then I work as an Instructional Designer where I provide consulting (needs analysis) for companies and work with a team to design solutions for their company depending on that need.
Little did I realize a year ago that my journey would lead me to a job where I could do both business and curriculum design. I searched for companies like this but always seemed to come up short. The Lord prepared every step of the way. How grateful I am for His divine guidance.
In July, the associate dean of BYU’s business school called me. He offered me a project based position to work with diversity recruiting. “Jackpot!” I thought. The school currently had a hiring freeze and I felt this was my ticket in when that freeze was lifted. I played in California the next week, talked with the associate dean a couple of times, and returned from vacation ready to work. As the next few months passed, hope waned that this could turn into a full time position. One day the associate dean warned me warned me that the MBA recruiting position was just approved but just because I was working for him right then did not guarantee I would be hired for the newly approved opening. That message sat with me for a few weeks. Though I applied for the position, I realized that I did not fit with the ideals of the MBA program and the person they wanted in that spot. When I saw that the MBA office had reposted the opening, I emotionally abandoned the opportunity altogether.
Thus began my journey. My grandpa always told us “It isn’t what you know but who you know.” MBA school constantly emphasized the importance of networking to find what you want. I took both to heart and reached out to Taylor, a family friend. I bumped into Taylor in the student center the previous week when I was spending time with a brother-in-law who was in town. What a fortuitous meeting! I emailed Taylor and he spent some time deciding who to introduce me to, what industries to target, and where to focus my energies. I began setting up informational interviews, attending conferences, and reaching out to those who were eager to help me. Each person either suggested a position I could apply for in that company or someone else that would be valuable for me to talk to. The doors began to open!
The week after Thanksgiving I met Joseph. Though we both felt I wasn’t the best fit for his company, he suggested I talk with Michael who worked at a company in Salt Lake. (They provided consulting services and designed training/learning programs to help solve the needs of the companies.) Guess who was also connected to Michael? My new friend Taylor. Taylor introduced Michael and me via email and within the hour Michael responded with openings that matched my interests. Even better, two people had just given their two weeks notice and the company needed to fill the positions quickly. Michael and I discussed the workings of the company and my excitement grew throughout our conversation. He also put me in touch with Anna, the Director of Instructional Design, and she asked for my resume. She immediately responded to my email and invited me in for an interview. Both Michael and Anna’s eagerness to meet with me stemmed from my dual background in education and business.
Two days later after talking with Michael, I was sitting in Anna’s office. I was nervous! I spent six hours the day before preparing for the interview. I've never done that! The first 30 minutes of the interview I took a writing proficiency exam. Basically a dumbed down version of the grammar part of the GMAT. By the way, I maintain one of the questions had no right answer. For those of you who know grammar, I’ll give you the sentences and you can let me know if I am wrong. I was supposed to meet for 30 minutes with Anna in a one-on-one interview but we ended up talking for over an hour! By the end of the interview she said two key important things: 1) I can see you quickly becoming a Lead Designer in the company; 2) When can you start? Needless to say the interview went well and Anna was thrilled to have me part of the team. I start Wednesday which means all of this happened within 1½ weeks! I will be trained/mentored for 3-6 weeks depending on how quickly I pick up the process and protocol. Who are we kidding? It will be three. :) Then I work as an Instructional Designer where I provide consulting (needs analysis) for companies and work with a team to design solutions for their company depending on that need.
Little did I realize a year ago that my journey would lead me to a job where I could do both business and curriculum design. I searched for companies like this but always seemed to come up short. The Lord prepared every step of the way. How grateful I am for His divine guidance.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Life has a Story
Once when talking with a friend, he stopped mid-sentence, stared, and said, "You have a story for everything, don't you?" His questioned caught me off guard! But I thought about it for a second and replied back, "Yes. I do." We both laughed and continued our conversation. That was over fourteen years ago and I realize many of these stories have never really been documented. My goal for my blog the next few months is to provide all of you the random stories from my life. Hopefully you find as my joy and humor or tenderness in them as I did in living them.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Doubt Not, Fear Not
Right now I should be preparing for an interview with a company that actually excites me. As much as I should be focusing my energy there or even finishing a final project for my other job, my mind continues pondering over thoughts I had while working out this morning. Time to data dump if only to help my mind more fully understand the swirling thoughts.
One of the greatest gifts we receive from our Heavenly Father is personal revelation. Through the gift of the Holy Ghost and the power of the atonement, the Lord is able to direct our lives in a uniquely personal way. Insights, impressions, and instruction come when we earnestly seek the will of the Lord.
In my lifetime, I have had such experiences. Some so sacred I have either never discussed them in detail or never mentioned them at all. Most often they came while experiencing what Elder Holland referred to as our own Liberty Jails. Recently, as I was seeking the Lord's will for me, I once again experienced the sweet divine gift of personal revelation. The topic nor the message is what my mind has been mulling over the past few hours. What stood out to me was what happened afterward.
Opposition comes in all forms. Though I knew exactly what I felt, advice from the world caused me to doubt. I began to cast off the insights, impressions, and instruction. I called myself crazy. I lost confidence. I completely crumbled. What happened? I let others' stories predict my life for me. I let the world's perspective question the knowledge I received from a loving Heavenly Father. I let the adversary confuse me to the point I was ready to forgo all that had been revealed to me.
Thankfully, the Lord heard my prayers and cast the darkness out of my life. As the light flooded my soul, I began to more fully understand the principle of trusting in the Lord. Where doubt and fear, which are the seeds of darkness, are present trust, faith, and hope cannot exist. Helaman 5:41 explains just this. "You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until you shall have faith in Christ...and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you." And from D&C 6:36: "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not." Asking others for advice or seeking out what seems "normal" destroys the very gift of personal revelation. What the Lord speaks to us is far more valuable than anything that we may try to glean from the perspective of the world.
What are my conclusions from all this rambling? First, the Lord desires to impart His wisdom and will for us daily. Second, opposition comes in all forms. Third, doubt and fear will cause us to question that which we have received and believed and lived for. Fourth, having trust, faith, and hope, even if I feel a bit crazy, brings far greater joy and happiness in my life then listening to the wisdom of the world. Fifth, my brother-in-law was right.
Time to grade papers and prepare for an interview!
One of the greatest gifts we receive from our Heavenly Father is personal revelation. Through the gift of the Holy Ghost and the power of the atonement, the Lord is able to direct our lives in a uniquely personal way. Insights, impressions, and instruction come when we earnestly seek the will of the Lord.
In my lifetime, I have had such experiences. Some so sacred I have either never discussed them in detail or never mentioned them at all. Most often they came while experiencing what Elder Holland referred to as our own Liberty Jails. Recently, as I was seeking the Lord's will for me, I once again experienced the sweet divine gift of personal revelation. The topic nor the message is what my mind has been mulling over the past few hours. What stood out to me was what happened afterward.
Opposition comes in all forms. Though I knew exactly what I felt, advice from the world caused me to doubt. I began to cast off the insights, impressions, and instruction. I called myself crazy. I lost confidence. I completely crumbled. What happened? I let others' stories predict my life for me. I let the world's perspective question the knowledge I received from a loving Heavenly Father. I let the adversary confuse me to the point I was ready to forgo all that had been revealed to me.
Thankfully, the Lord heard my prayers and cast the darkness out of my life. As the light flooded my soul, I began to more fully understand the principle of trusting in the Lord. Where doubt and fear, which are the seeds of darkness, are present trust, faith, and hope cannot exist. Helaman 5:41 explains just this. "You must repent, and cry unto the voice, even until you shall have faith in Christ...and when ye shall do this, the cloud of darkness shall be removed from overshadowing you." And from D&C 6:36: "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not." Asking others for advice or seeking out what seems "normal" destroys the very gift of personal revelation. What the Lord speaks to us is far more valuable than anything that we may try to glean from the perspective of the world.
What are my conclusions from all this rambling? First, the Lord desires to impart His wisdom and will for us daily. Second, opposition comes in all forms. Third, doubt and fear will cause us to question that which we have received and believed and lived for. Fourth, having trust, faith, and hope, even if I feel a bit crazy, brings far greater joy and happiness in my life then listening to the wisdom of the world. Fifth, my brother-in-law was right.
Time to grade papers and prepare for an interview!
Quote of the Day
Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.
-Helen Keller
-Helen Keller
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Scientific Evidence
Having a month long focus on gratitude helped me in an uncertain time. Focusing on the good that happened helped shift my mind towards all the positive in my life. Today the Wall Street Journal published an article detailing the scientific evidence found in those who express gratitude.
"A growing body of research suggests that maintaining an attitude of gratitude can improve psychological, emotional and physical well-being. Adults who frequently feel grateful have more energy, more optimism, more social connections and more happiness than those who do not, according to studies conducted over the past decade.
Studies show that using negative, derogatory words—even as you talk to yourself—can darken your mood as well. Fill your head with positive thoughts, express thanks and encouragement aloud and look for something to be grateful for, not criticize, in those around you, especially loved ones."
The article continues with the benefits of gratitude in children and how we can cultivate gratitude in our lives. I highly recommend the read.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704243904575630541486290052.html
"A growing body of research suggests that maintaining an attitude of gratitude can improve psychological, emotional and physical well-being. Adults who frequently feel grateful have more energy, more optimism, more social connections and more happiness than those who do not, according to studies conducted over the past decade.
Studies show that using negative, derogatory words—even as you talk to yourself—can darken your mood as well. Fill your head with positive thoughts, express thanks and encouragement aloud and look for something to be grateful for, not criticize, in those around you, especially loved ones."
The article continues with the benefits of gratitude in children and how we can cultivate gratitude in our lives. I highly recommend the read.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704243904575630541486290052.html
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Gratitude Day 30
1- Exercise. I haven't consistently worked out since my half marathon in August. Today I recommitted to a routine. It felt good to get my heart pumping and my legs moving. Hopefully I'll be able to complete a few more races this year including another half marathon with my sisters.
2- Modern Medicine. I am extremely grateful my sister and her new husband were in the United States when he went into emergency surgery for appendicitis. Yes you read that correctly. Three days after they got married, the day they were supposed to fly to Costa Rica for their honeymoon, he was wheeled into surgery. However, the bright spot is their honeymoon will only be delayed one week.
3- Surviving. I look back on my life and realize how many times I have been in uncertain situations with what seemed like insurmountable obstacles. My mom once commented to me that during those times in life we may need to face each day in five minute intervals. Though I haven't had a trial like that in years, I have been reminded how vulnerable I am and how completely reliant I am on the Lord. November did not play out the way I expected in October. But through the divine grace and mercy of the Lord and an exceptional family, I survived.
2- Modern Medicine. I am extremely grateful my sister and her new husband were in the United States when he went into emergency surgery for appendicitis. Yes you read that correctly. Three days after they got married, the day they were supposed to fly to Costa Rica for their honeymoon, he was wheeled into surgery. However, the bright spot is their honeymoon will only be delayed one week.
3- Surviving. I look back on my life and realize how many times I have been in uncertain situations with what seemed like insurmountable obstacles. My mom once commented to me that during those times in life we may need to face each day in five minute intervals. Though I haven't had a trial like that in years, I have been reminded how vulnerable I am and how completely reliant I am on the Lord. November did not play out the way I expected in October. But through the divine grace and mercy of the Lord and an exceptional family, I survived.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Gratitude Day 29
1- Job possibilities. I found two new jobs today that could actually be a great fit for me. Both are with a nonprofit educational foundation. One is a trainer designer which basically works with the product team to develop training solutions that help educators improve student outcomes. The other is an educational consultant who interfaces with the customer and the product team to improve the plan and design of the product and the best way to train customers on the product. Yes they sound very similar except the first focuses on the business end and the second on the curriculum end. Lucky for me, I have the background for both.
2- MBA friends. When I was first considering the program, I asked a current student one reason why he would recommend it. He remarked that you get to go to school with 150 of your best friends. I didn't realize how true his statement was until today. One girl who I became good friends with emailed me today. I hadn't spoken with her since graduation. I was reminded how important these friendships are to me and that i need to do better in staying in touch with them.
3- Not commuting. Today I am grateful I did not have to commute to work. I remember all the snow days I had driving to and from my schools. The weatherman would predict a minor storm and it would pound us much like it did last night. Once the new year starts, I know I'll be picking up a commute of some kind. But today, I didn't have to drive in the snow.
2- MBA friends. When I was first considering the program, I asked a current student one reason why he would recommend it. He remarked that you get to go to school with 150 of your best friends. I didn't realize how true his statement was until today. One girl who I became good friends with emailed me today. I hadn't spoken with her since graduation. I was reminded how important these friendships are to me and that i need to do better in staying in touch with them.
3- Not commuting. Today I am grateful I did not have to commute to work. I remember all the snow days I had driving to and from my schools. The weatherman would predict a minor storm and it would pound us much like it did last night. Once the new year starts, I know I'll be picking up a commute of some kind. But today, I didn't have to drive in the snow.
Gratitude Day 28
1- Relaxing. Yesterday was busy with all the traveling between the wedding and reception so it was nice to relax today. Regroup. Unwind. Rest. Very much needed.
2- Coming home to a clean apartment. I arrived home around midnight last night. Knowing my apartment was clean when I came home was a nice feeling. Yes I know I spent the "blizzard" day cleaning and already knew that everything was in order, but I was still grateful to come home to an organized, vacuumed, and scrubbed down apartment.
3- Afternoon church. Usually I don't like afternoon church; however, as I said above, I needed a relaxing day. So, today I am grateful I was able to sleep in without worrying about any meetings or rushing off to church, especially with the few inches of snow on the ground.
2- Coming home to a clean apartment. I arrived home around midnight last night. Knowing my apartment was clean when I came home was a nice feeling. Yes I know I spent the "blizzard" day cleaning and already knew that everything was in order, but I was still grateful to come home to an organized, vacuumed, and scrubbed down apartment.
3- Afternoon church. Usually I don't like afternoon church; however, as I said above, I needed a relaxing day. So, today I am grateful I was able to sleep in without worrying about any meetings or rushing off to church, especially with the few inches of snow on the ground.
More Pictures of the Wedding
I didn't take many pictures at the wedding because my three brother-in-laws and my older brother were doing a great job. I know many of you who follow my blog also know my sister so I thought I would upload a couple of pictures from the wedding. These two came from Lucille's blog.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Gratitude Day 27
1- Eternal Marriage. Today my sister and her fiance were married in the temple for all eternity. The sealing powers we have on this earth create a bright future of hope which promises that if we are true and faithful, we can live with our spouse, children, and families for all eternity. What an amazing blessing from the Lord!
2- Relationships with others. At the reception this evening, I was reminded of how important kindness towards others is in building friendships with everyone. My great-aunt and my dad's cousin both made comments about how much they value the efforts I give in visiting with them. Most people do not know their extended family beyond first cousins and aunts and uncles, but I have had the unique chance to get to know these relatives because I grew up in the same town as them. Having these extended, extended relatives in my life has been a great blessing to me.
3- Angelic ministers. With today being such a busy day and my mind being elsewhere most of the time, I am grateful the Lord is able to speak to others to help me. My aunt related an experience that happened to her during the ceremony that related to me. Her impression lifted my spirits and renewed my hope.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Gratitude Day 26
1- Siblings who recognize what I need especially when I don't want to burden them or when I am purposefully avoiding/hiding what I know I need. I truly have generous and kind siblings (and in-laws).
2- Nieces and Nephews. Many years ago, one of my nephews asked with concern in his voice why I didn't have kids. I told him that I needed to be married first and jokingly asked him if he knew of anyone. His four-year-old mind raced and replied with a sad voice that he couldn't think of anyone. He was quiet for a few more moments, then said to me with a wisdom beyond his years that he and his siblings would be my kids until I had my own. I have enjoyed playing with all eighteen of my "kids" this week. They have been a joy and a blessing to me. I am also grateful that they all seem to get along with one another. Every one of them has a cousin they consider a friend.
3- Having fun. I love the variety of interests in my family. If you were a fly on the wall in my house this week, you would have seen people playing video games, chess, card games, board games, watching and playing football and basketball, singing around the piano, playing the piano/guitar/trumpet, talking about a wide variety of topics including politics, religion, medicine, business, sports, etc., and loving every minute of it. I am grateful for a family that enjoys being together.
2- Nieces and Nephews. Many years ago, one of my nephews asked with concern in his voice why I didn't have kids. I told him that I needed to be married first and jokingly asked him if he knew of anyone. His four-year-old mind raced and replied with a sad voice that he couldn't think of anyone. He was quiet for a few more moments, then said to me with a wisdom beyond his years that he and his siblings would be my kids until I had my own. I have enjoyed playing with all eighteen of my "kids" this week. They have been a joy and a blessing to me. I am also grateful that they all seem to get along with one another. Every one of them has a cousin they consider a friend.
3- Having fun. I love the variety of interests in my family. If you were a fly on the wall in my house this week, you would have seen people playing video games, chess, card games, board games, watching and playing football and basketball, singing around the piano, playing the piano/guitar/trumpet, talking about a wide variety of topics including politics, religion, medicine, business, sports, etc., and loving every minute of it. I am grateful for a family that enjoys being together.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Gratitude Day 25
1- Sleeping in. Usually we go to my aunt's house for Thanksgiving. This year all of my siblings were in town and we had Thanksgiving at my parents' house. Joyous day because I was able to sleep in! I really enjoyed not having to travel back and forth this year.
2- Financial security. Even though I do not have a full time job yet, it is comforting to know I am financially secure. I followed the philosophy of "live like a student while you are student" the past few years. Even though I was used to a steady income before graduate school, cutting back while in school has saved me from many headaches.
3- Comfort of family. We all have our family stories and mine is not immune. Despite this, they are a comfort to me. I appreciate their counsel, their perspective, and their love. My life has never been "normal". For some reason the most random or unexpected experiences happen to me. Because of this, they have never failed to support me in my decisions. I truly am blessed to be part of my family.
2- Financial security. Even though I do not have a full time job yet, it is comforting to know I am financially secure. I followed the philosophy of "live like a student while you are student" the past few years. Even though I was used to a steady income before graduate school, cutting back while in school has saved me from many headaches.
3- Comfort of family. We all have our family stories and mine is not immune. Despite this, they are a comfort to me. I appreciate their counsel, their perspective, and their love. My life has never been "normal". For some reason the most random or unexpected experiences happen to me. Because of this, they have never failed to support me in my decisions. I truly am blessed to be part of my family.
Gratitude Day 24
1- Artwork. Today I enjoyed the works of a great painter with my family. I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibit and hope to go back. Though I'm not the most knowledgeable about art history, I am grateful my parents taught me to appreciate and enjoy the talents of painters and other artists.
2- Pampering. Few things in this world relax me like a foot massage. Today I indulged and got a pedicure at my favorite place. Some may scoff asking, "Why would you pay money to have someone paint your toenails?" For those of you who have had a pedicure, you know it has nothing to do with the toe paint. It is all about the massage. Very, very nice!
3- Shopping with a friend. A friend of mine invited me to go shoe shopping with her today. Though I'm not a big shopper, I enjoyed my time being out of the house and talking with a friend. I did make a purchase: jewelry for my sister's wedding. As a previous post attests, I already found a pair of shoes. :)
2- Pampering. Few things in this world relax me like a foot massage. Today I indulged and got a pedicure at my favorite place. Some may scoff asking, "Why would you pay money to have someone paint your toenails?" For those of you who have had a pedicure, you know it has nothing to do with the toe paint. It is all about the massage. Very, very nice!
3- Shopping with a friend. A friend of mine invited me to go shoe shopping with her today. Though I'm not a big shopper, I enjoyed my time being out of the house and talking with a friend. I did make a purchase: jewelry for my sister's wedding. As a previous post attests, I already found a pair of shoes. :)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Gratitude Day 23
1- O Holy Night. Whenever I hear this song, my mind recalls sitting by the Christmas tree wrapped in a blanket, watching the twinkling Christmas lights, and listening to this song. For me that was Christmas. The peace and stillness that seemed lost at other times of the year. Many versions of this song exist but I discovered my favorite two years ago. A good friend of mine introduced me to this version as we were decorating the Christmas tree. The spirit that accompanied the song as it filled the room was unmatched and I fell in love with it all over again. Hauntingly beautiful rendition. The King's Singers have forever solidified this as my favorite Christmas song.
2- Clean apartment. My morning appointment was canceled so I spent the time deep cleaning my bathroom and bedroom.
3- Freshly washed sheets. Not only did I get my apartment cleaned but I also finished my laundry. Another great feeling. I had to do something today. My afternoon plans were foiled by this weak "blizzard" that everyone got hyped up about.
2- Clean apartment. My morning appointment was canceled so I spent the time deep cleaning my bathroom and bedroom.
3- Freshly washed sheets. Not only did I get my apartment cleaned but I also finished my laundry. Another great feeling. I had to do something today. My afternoon plans were foiled by this weak "blizzard" that everyone got hyped up about.
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