Just a quick thought that I had this morning. So during most of my college life I have been bothered by the fact that I don't have all the time and means to do everything I want during this "prime years". What has always given me hope and lifted me up is the fact that during life there is a time and a season for everything. Being in school is not the season to do a lot of extravagant things (for me at least)--it's for studying and doing well in classes.
However, isn't it always time to serve others? Isn't it always the season for health and keeping your body strong with good nutrition and exercise? Shouldn't our lives be in a constant spiritual growth season?
Yes, being in school is a season for me to get good grades and prepare myself for a future career. But I have to remember that I can't just focus on one thing for a period of time. That's how I go crazy. We must have moderation in every aspect of life so we can get it all in each day. If I can plan well, and have a little flexibility, I can get my homework in, get to the gym, and maybe visit some friends I haven't seen in a while.
The key for me is to not get hung up on "all or nothing". So often I feel that what I do doesn't make any difference if I don't do it all or don't do a lot. Only an hour of workout will count as exercise, so if I don't have an hour I can't go to the gym. Because of course a half hour doesn't count at all. Not. I can go to the gym for 20 minutes. I can just stop by to say hello to someone. I can read scriptures for 5 minutes and then ponder them as I get ready--doesn't have to be a 30 minutes study session every single day.
I can do this! You can do this! Somehow we can figure out a way to do it all.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
it's the people
Before I start my official post, I just have to say that I have the best parents. I love them and they love me. I respect them and they respect me. I look up to them, and they live lives worthy of praise. I understand that not everyone feels that way about their parents, and that this relationship may be rare. That just makes me all the more grateful. Thank you Mom and Dad for all you do for me.
Now along those same thoughts: life is good. And it's all because of great people.
The past couple of weeks have brought on a lot of random emotions, some high and some low. I feel like I'm still trying to figure myself out professionally, spiritually, socially, and romantically. It's a continuous journey with many ups and downs, but at this very moment I feel good. And I owe that all to wonderful people like these:
Whether they know it or not, there are so people, some close and some distant, that make me want to be a better person. I see the way they live their lives and I want to be just like them. There are incredible people in history and in current society that do really amazing things, and are very inspiring. But they don't even come close to those that I interact with. They do the little things that make their life, and others' lives better.
There's still a lot for me to figure out, a lot of growing up to do. But it's going to be great because I have the best people to look to.
Now along those same thoughts: life is good. And it's all because of great people.
The past couple of weeks have brought on a lot of random emotions, some high and some low. I feel like I'm still trying to figure myself out professionally, spiritually, socially, and romantically. It's a continuous journey with many ups and downs, but at this very moment I feel good. And I owe that all to wonderful people like these:
Whether they know it or not, there are so people, some close and some distant, that make me want to be a better person. I see the way they live their lives and I want to be just like them. There are incredible people in history and in current society that do really amazing things, and are very inspiring. But they don't even come close to those that I interact with. They do the little things that make their life, and others' lives better.There's still a lot for me to figure out, a lot of growing up to do. But it's going to be great because I have the best people to look to.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
my life this summer
Here I go again. Getting so excited to blog about every little thing and the life gets busy and the first thing I put off is my blog. I guess if we're talking being productive in a school sense this is good--putting school above all else. But my poor blog. Maybe someday I'll figure out a balance.
Well, if you haven't guessed, my life the last few months has been school and work. My social life has literally gone down the drain. I know we all feel busy, but I can honestly say that I have never been more busy than this summer. I feel like every moment is planned, and if I'm being social (or blogging) I'm putting off school and being "unproductive". It sounds nasty, but it surprisingly hasn't been torture...yet. I've been able to do well, keep up my energy level for the most part (mainly because I pass out around 11 or 12, which can be early to some college students), and I'm still happy.
I'm probably most happy because, even though I'm always studying, I have the best roommates who come into my room and distract me. It's moments like these that I make it through the 8 hour study sessions:
Sometimes I wonder if I act my age, but then I just tell myself I better get all this craziness out during my "prime" years, before I get all mature.
Well, if you haven't guessed, my life the last few months has been school and work. My social life has literally gone down the drain. I know we all feel busy, but I can honestly say that I have never been more busy than this summer. I feel like every moment is planned, and if I'm being social (or blogging) I'm putting off school and being "unproductive". It sounds nasty, but it surprisingly hasn't been torture...yet. I've been able to do well, keep up my energy level for the most part (mainly because I pass out around 11 or 12, which can be early to some college students), and I'm still happy.
I'm probably most happy because, even though I'm always studying, I have the best roommates who come into my room and distract me. It's moments like these that I make it through the 8 hour study sessions:
Sometimes I wonder if I act my age, but then I just tell myself I better get all this craziness out during my "prime" years, before I get all mature.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
In memory...
Today is an opportunity to put aside our everyday and celebrate those who have sacrificed so much for us. I want to publicly thank every soldier in every branch of the military, as well as their families for the sacrifices they make to give us freedom. Those beloved freedoms of speech and religion, as well as every other freedom we enjoy, is possible because of those who are willing to devote their life to defending our country and our beliefs. Thank you.
I've been thinking about my Grandpa a lot lately (possibly because of Memorial Day, but maybe just because). He passed away about 2 months ago, and it's been somewhat of a journey for me going through the grieving process. His death was fairly sudden, but at the same time not much of a surprise. Due to a random visit home I had the opportunity to say good bye to him and that has been a huge comfort to me. After his funeral I had a tough time coming back to school because I didn't want to move on from mourning. I didn't really have a choice but to get over it (which looking back now I know that was the best thing). But every so often I just get sad at the fact that I can't call him or see him when I go home. I haven't had the chance to see his grave since the funeral, and that is especially hard today since that's something you do on Memorial Day.
My grandpa was such an incredible man, someone I can only hope to be like some day. He spent his life in service of others and appreciating all that is beautiful. I owe my love of art, dance, and theater to him. We would have the most incredible discussions about life and everything you could think of. He has always been someone I have wanted to make proud, and I will always want to make proud. I miss his counsel, his physical presence, and his reminders to me of my potential.
I saw a movie not too long ago that I think says it perfectly:
"When King Lear dies in Act V, do you know what Shakespeare has written? He's written "He dies." That's all, nothing more. No fanfare, no metaphor, no brilliant final words. The culmination of the most influential work of dramatic literature is "He dies." It takes Shakespeare, a genius, to come up with "He dies." And yet every time I read those two words, I find myself overwhelmed with dysphoria. And I know it's only natural to be sad, but not because of the words "He dies." but because of the life we saw prior to the words."
--Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium
My grandpa never wanted anyone to make a fuss over him. He passed away quickly with no fanfare. But it's not his death that makes me sad, it's the most incredible life he lead before that. I miss him so much. On this Memorial Day I am thinking of all the past, current, and future veterans, but I'm also thinking of my grandpa. I want to live a life that doesn't take my freedoms for granted, but instead uses those freedoms for living the best life I possibly can, bettering myself and serving others always.
Happy Memorial Day everyone! Please take a moment today to think of and thank our military men and women. We wouldn't have anything without them.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Spoons
So I have been working at a cafeteria for almost two years now. I know everything about that cafeteria like the back of my hand (then again, I don't think I've ever stared at the back of my hand enough to have it completely memorized. I mean I recognize what's on my hand, but I don't know if I could give detail on the spot. But anyways...) Sometimes when I'm working a job that's more seclusive, my thought process can get pretty interesting. I don't know if it's because I'm bored or maybe I just try to be more deep and intellectual than I probably am :)
So today I was in charge of washing all the silverware that was used. Let me give you a brief explanation of the process: When the silverware is returned to the dish room it is placed into a bucket of soapy water. After soaking for a little bit it's put into an intense washer. I take it out of the washer, kind of throw it all onto a table, and sort the pile into knives, forks, and spoons. Once it's all sorted, then it's washed again and then finally placed into containers to be used again. Now, I have to tell you that when I sort the large pile I pick up all the forks first, then I pick up spoons, and save knives for last.
I decided tonight that spoons were my favorite utensil. However, once I decided that, I began to ask myself why (this is where I tell myself that I have been working there way too long...trying to find meaning in silverware). But really though--do I love spoons because I use spoons to eat the majority of my diet (cereal, yogurt, ice cream, soup, etc) or is it just because they are easier to pick up once all the forks are out of that big pile? I know that's kind of a weird thing to wonder, but it got me thinking even more... Are there things that I only like because they are easy and things I don't like just because they are hard??
Take running for example--I think running is extremely hard. But do I not like it because it's hard? Have I even given myself a chance to try and enjoy it? What about cooking? I have never been really good at cooking actual meals for myself. Do I do that because it's hard to make time or do I like eating "on-the-go" food all the time? And my Food Science class--same question.
I don't want to go through life not doing great things, not liking great things, just because they are hard. Hard things can be amazing, and finishing something hard is probably the best feeling ever. Life in general can be hard, but that doesn't mean it can't still be enjoyable. I feel a rejuvenation to go forward and not let difficulty determine my interests and my life. Here's to loving things that are hard!!
A special thank you to all the spoons in that cafeteria that made me see life in a whole new perspective.
So today I was in charge of washing all the silverware that was used. Let me give you a brief explanation of the process: When the silverware is returned to the dish room it is placed into a bucket of soapy water. After soaking for a little bit it's put into an intense washer. I take it out of the washer, kind of throw it all onto a table, and sort the pile into knives, forks, and spoons. Once it's all sorted, then it's washed again and then finally placed into containers to be used again. Now, I have to tell you that when I sort the large pile I pick up all the forks first, then I pick up spoons, and save knives for last.
I decided tonight that spoons were my favorite utensil. However, once I decided that, I began to ask myself why (this is where I tell myself that I have been working there way too long...trying to find meaning in silverware). But really though--do I love spoons because I use spoons to eat the majority of my diet (cereal, yogurt, ice cream, soup, etc) or is it just because they are easier to pick up once all the forks are out of that big pile? I know that's kind of a weird thing to wonder, but it got me thinking even more... Are there things that I only like because they are easy and things I don't like just because they are hard??
Take running for example--I think running is extremely hard. But do I not like it because it's hard? Have I even given myself a chance to try and enjoy it? What about cooking? I have never been really good at cooking actual meals for myself. Do I do that because it's hard to make time or do I like eating "on-the-go" food all the time? And my Food Science class--same question.
I don't want to go through life not doing great things, not liking great things, just because they are hard. Hard things can be amazing, and finishing something hard is probably the best feeling ever. Life in general can be hard, but that doesn't mean it can't still be enjoyable. I feel a rejuvenation to go forward and not let difficulty determine my interests and my life. Here's to loving things that are hard!!
A special thank you to all the spoons in that cafeteria that made me see life in a whole new perspective.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
sometimes loser = winner
I'm currently sitting at my kitchen table listening to Sweet Disposition and trying to decide what to post about. I have a couple of ideas, but there is really only one thing on my mind today ...
BIGGEST LOSER Season Finale. live. tonight.
I would try to express my excitement, but there are no words. I have watched this season from episode 1 and loved every bit of it. I got my good friend David addicted around episode 6 and we've watched it together ever since. Because of our random schedules, we would watch it on hulu so it wasn't necessarily every week, but we would watch an episode when we could. I'm not going to lie, I'm kind of sad its about to end because I've loved this season (but don't worry, SYTYCD starts on Thursday!!)
Just so you know, David and I are both rooting for Olivia (but David said he'd be happy with Hannah too).
Call me super cheesy, and maybe even weird, but I love love love this show. A lot of it is because it's a reality TV show that actually does some good. But mostly because the whole weight loss thing means a lot to me. My mother lost over 150 pounds when I was in high school and I can't even begin to tell you how proud I am of her (she didn't even need a show! Yeah Mom!!). Her weight loss journey has really had an impact on who I am--I mean I'm going into Dietetics because of it. I haven't had to lose that much weight, but I've seen what that weight can do to a person and their family. And I have seen what losing that weight can do for a person and their family.
My friends may tease when I tear up almost every episode, but the hardships that the contestants talk about and go through are pretty real for me. That's why I love watching this show--watching people get their lives back, just like my mom did. So Yay for Biggest Loser!!
So I'm probably going to make a big deal about tonight and force my roommates to either watch or leave. And there will most likely be food...probably unhealthy with a run to the gym later. I'll let you know my reaction to the results. Go Olivia!!
BIGGEST LOSER Season Finale. live. tonight.
I would try to express my excitement, but there are no words. I have watched this season from episode 1 and loved every bit of it. I got my good friend David addicted around episode 6 and we've watched it together ever since. Because of our random schedules, we would watch it on hulu so it wasn't necessarily every week, but we would watch an episode when we could. I'm not going to lie, I'm kind of sad its about to end because I've loved this season (but don't worry, SYTYCD starts on Thursday!!)
Just so you know, David and I are both rooting for Olivia (but David said he'd be happy with Hannah too).
Call me super cheesy, and maybe even weird, but I love love love this show. A lot of it is because it's a reality TV show that actually does some good. But mostly because the whole weight loss thing means a lot to me. My mother lost over 150 pounds when I was in high school and I can't even begin to tell you how proud I am of her (she didn't even need a show! Yeah Mom!!). Her weight loss journey has really had an impact on who I am--I mean I'm going into Dietetics because of it. I haven't had to lose that much weight, but I've seen what that weight can do to a person and their family. And I have seen what losing that weight can do for a person and their family.
My friends may tease when I tear up almost every episode, but the hardships that the contestants talk about and go through are pretty real for me. That's why I love watching this show--watching people get their lives back, just like my mom did. So Yay for Biggest Loser!!
So I'm probably going to make a big deal about tonight and force my roommates to either watch or leave. And there will most likely be food...probably unhealthy with a run to the gym later. I'll let you know my reaction to the results. Go Olivia!!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Savy?
I decided to be semi spontaneous last night. I say "semi" because the event had been planned, but then I had in my mind that I was not going to go, but then only a couple of hours before I decided to go for it. I really enjoy being spontaneous. Now, I'm not the type who will decide to drive cross country for a month without planning anything (no, that would be my roommate). However, when it comes to random activities that are always happening around college I'd say I am good at participating. So are you curious yet what it is I did??
Well...
That's right. Pirates of the Caribbean midnight premier. Please don't laugh--I know it's not a crazy spontaneous thing, but come on. Who went to that? I know our theater definitely wasn't full, but we had a blast. Despite the skepticism, I really enjoyed this one. I also got super excited for a bunch of movies coming out this summer. Here are the ones that I really want to see:
X-Men: First Class
3 Musketeers
Real Steel
Captain America: The First Avenger
Yes I realize that these are all more "action" type movies, but I am allowed to be a girl and still claim my favorite movie genre as action ... savy?
Well...
That's right. Pirates of the Caribbean midnight premier. Please don't laugh--I know it's not a crazy spontaneous thing, but come on. Who went to that? I know our theater definitely wasn't full, but we had a blast. Despite the skepticism, I really enjoyed this one. I also got super excited for a bunch of movies coming out this summer. Here are the ones that I really want to see:
X-Men: First Class
3 Musketeers
Real Steel
Captain America: The First Avenger
Yes I realize that these are all more "action" type movies, but I am allowed to be a girl and still claim my favorite movie genre as action ... savy?
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Cure for long days
I just want to brag for a sec -- this morning I woke up at 7:46 am. I first class starts at 8am and I was totally on time. Impressed? Me too. Except for the fact that I looked like death. But let's not reflect on that too much.
So this term my Mondays and Wednesdays are nonstop from 8am-8pm. I have classes for 7 hours, then work, plus any reviews or homework afterward that need to get done. Needless to say, I'm exhausted at the end of the day. But I have found the best way to relax and rejuvenate:
Adele.
I am seriously addicted. She has such a gorgeous, full voice that I could listen to for hours (and I have). This is the first song I heard of hers. If I remember correctly I bought it right after I heard it and have listened to it multiple times a day ever since.
You've probably heard this one on the radio, but I thought I'd share it here because it's also a favorite in my apartment:
So this term my Mondays and Wednesdays are nonstop from 8am-8pm. I have classes for 7 hours, then work, plus any reviews or homework afterward that need to get done. Needless to say, I'm exhausted at the end of the day. But I have found the best way to relax and rejuvenate:
Adele.
I am seriously addicted. She has such a gorgeous, full voice that I could listen to for hours (and I have). This is the first song I heard of hers. If I remember correctly I bought it right after I heard it and have listened to it multiple times a day ever since.
You've probably heard this one on the radio, but I thought I'd share it here because it's also a favorite in my apartment:
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Hello world, it's been a while!
It was almost one year ago that I started this blog. I don't really remember what happened since August that has kept me from posting. Oh wait I remember: life. Luckily for me I now have an incredible roommate that has got me following all these really cool blogs. And I have to tell you, it's kind of embarrassing to admit I follow these blogs and then have to admit that I don't even keep mine up. So today I'm changing that. I am becoming a blog follower, as well as a blogger. (Let's just hope I don't bring dishonor to the title.)
This last year has been pretty incredible. Not too much has happened, except if there is one thing that I would categorize as incredible, and that would be getting into the Dietetics major at BYU. I feel proud, excited, and terrified all at the same time. I am going to be a Dietitian (though you could technically spell it "dietician" we professionals like the 't' better) and that is really nice to be able to tell people.
So other than deciding on my future, not a ton has happened. I actually chose to give my blog a little makeover to reflect my life right now: simple. Not simple in the sense that I'm not incredibly busy with homework and my job, but simple in the fact that homework and my job is about all I really do. Here's the typical reunion conversation I have:
Friend: Jette! What have you been up to? What's new?
Me: Um.... nothing really. Just going to school, working a bunch, doing more school, working a little more, and then finishing it all off with school.
Friend: cool.
Me: yeah.
Sometimes I get frustrated that I don't have the time or means to do more, but then I remember that this is the time for me to be a student and succeed in that. I know eventually I will travel the world and spend all my time learning new things. Someday I will, but not today and for right now I think I'm okay with that. So bring on the school work for the next two years!!
The last year has been great--hopefully I'll remember the highlights and give updates as I go. For now, I'm going to bed.
This last year has been pretty incredible. Not too much has happened, except if there is one thing that I would categorize as incredible, and that would be getting into the Dietetics major at BYU. I feel proud, excited, and terrified all at the same time. I am going to be a Dietitian (though you could technically spell it "dietician" we professionals like the 't' better) and that is really nice to be able to tell people.
So other than deciding on my future, not a ton has happened. I actually chose to give my blog a little makeover to reflect my life right now: simple. Not simple in the sense that I'm not incredibly busy with homework and my job, but simple in the fact that homework and my job is about all I really do. Here's the typical reunion conversation I have:
Friend: Jette! What have you been up to? What's new?
Me: Um.... nothing really. Just going to school, working a bunch, doing more school, working a little more, and then finishing it all off with school.
Friend: cool.
Me: yeah.
Sometimes I get frustrated that I don't have the time or means to do more, but then I remember that this is the time for me to be a student and succeed in that. I know eventually I will travel the world and spend all my time learning new things. Someday I will, but not today and for right now I think I'm okay with that. So bring on the school work for the next two years!!
The last year has been great--hopefully I'll remember the highlights and give updates as I go. For now, I'm going to bed.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
zzzz.....
I hate it when your body wakes up 2 hours before you need to be up and then won't go back to sleep.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Not much, but still
Lately I've been kind of antsy to write, but haven't had much to say about any one subject. So what have I fallen back on? A list of course. You really shouldn't be surprised. Here's the title of my list: What I've learned this summer. I know it's cliche and elementary, but I've never been good at titles. My summer has been fairly low key so there's nothing on this list that is mind-bloggling, nor have I had any epiphanies to share. But it's been the little things that have effected me the most. As usual.
What I've learned this summer
1. My parents are the most amazing people in the universe.
Moving in with my parents has been amazing. About a gazillion times better than I could have imagined it. Being an adult child, and also working full time as a care-taker, I've really seen how much sacrifice my parents have given on my behalf. All the time, energy, and patience just astounds me when I think of how annoying and weird I was growing up. They have raised each child in a way that's perfect for them and they've adjusted as we have. I only hope I can be half the parent they are some day.2. I'm slowly becoming addicted to health.
This summer I've really wanted to focus on my physical health, since I probably wont have the time I do now to make it a priority. I've really had to adjust my motivations and goals to make my change permanent. For example, instead of making the goal to lose 10 lbs in a month, I'll make a goal to not eat sugar for a week and make sure I go to the gym at least 5 days a week. Let me tell you--I am feeling great! However, I'm not perfect in my eating or my workouts (just like everyone else I hope). Here's an instance that has happened multiple times this summer: I'll talk to someone about my new major (Dietetics) while I'm eating something super unhealthy and then that person looks at me like I'm the stupid. Yes I know the cinnamon roll is full of white, artery clogging sugar, but guess what? I happen to love the taste of artery clogging sugar. So get off my back and let me enjoy the cinnamon roll before I go back to broccoli and apples. I didn't say I'm a health addict. I just like the feeling of being healthy (with a few cholesterol building treats in between).
3. I like being busy.
I bragged about my job already, but now I'm going to give the one downer. I'm really hesitant to bring it up since every other working person in the world will probably shoot me. But there are a lot of days that I get bored. I have taken up reading, I do things around the house, but nothing is really productive. It's just stuff to do while I work. Even though a busy schedule usually brings stress, I like staying busy with classes, a calling, and a social life. It's much more interesting.
4. Sunscreen is actually a useful tool .
Did you know that you can still get tan when you use sunblock? I wouldn't have believed you 5 years ago. I feel mature when I take care of my skin haha
5. Team Jacob.
I saw Eclipse . Bella's an idiot for choosing Edward.
Enough said. What kind of stuff have you learned these last few months?
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Imagine...
I have the best job in the whole world this summer. I am a nanny for two darling little girls who in fact prefer if I do not play with them, leaving me to my own work and laziness. But even when I'm not playing with them, I've observed them these last couple months and decided that children have precious gifts that we seem to lose when we get older.
It's true that as you grow you get more privileges: driving license, right to vote, ability to get a credit card, employment, etc. I've loved growing up and utilizing what I can do now that I couldn't do 5 years ago. However, watching these girls this summer has opened my eyes to all the things that I don't have anymore. The biggest being a true imagination.
We were at the pool the other day and I could not figure out what game the girls were playing. So finally I asked the youngest and she replied, "we're playing jungle vets!" There was almost a "duh" tone in her voice and I laughed inside. Kids rock. Now I'm owning up to my adulthood and saying straight out that I have absolutely no interest in pretending to be a jungle vet. However, I can honestly say that I would have NEVER even thought up a jungle vet in a million years! Where do they such an amazing imagination? Where does it go?
I've loved working with these girls this summer--I hope to be like them when I grow up.
It's true that as you grow you get more privileges: driving license, right to vote, ability to get a credit card, employment, etc. I've loved growing up and utilizing what I can do now that I couldn't do 5 years ago. However, watching these girls this summer has opened my eyes to all the things that I don't have anymore. The biggest being a true imagination.
We were at the pool the other day and I could not figure out what game the girls were playing. So finally I asked the youngest and she replied, "we're playing jungle vets!" There was almost a "duh" tone in her voice and I laughed inside. Kids rock. Now I'm owning up to my adulthood and saying straight out that I have absolutely no interest in pretending to be a jungle vet. However, I can honestly say that I would have NEVER even thought up a jungle vet in a million years! Where do they such an amazing imagination? Where does it go?
I've loved working with these girls this summer--I hope to be like them when I grow up.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Nike: Just do it
I've been thinking about goals a lot recently. All the goals I've made and all the goals I haven't finished. All the goals I currently have, and what must be done to get there. I think people, including myself, mistake goals for wishes or dreams. I think we all want more--whether it's more health, more knowledge, more money, more spirituality, or more improvement overall. I know for me, I figure out what I want to get more of, and I may come up with a plan to get there. But a lot of times it stops there.
Most of us have heard of making "SMART" goals: Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-managed goals. I have used this method of setting goals many times. I write specific details of my goals and what I want to achieve. So why, then, are there so many goals that have gone unreached? I don't do the work. My desire may be there, but my willingness to sacrifice what is necessary is not there. Isn't that dumb? haha it's kind of ridiculous to think about--I could be so much farther in all aspects of life if I would just work. I feel like we should expand the way of making "smart" goals to making "SMART NIKE" goals and add to the end of everything: JUST DO IT!
I tend to think too much about the past and all the things I have and haven't done, but today I am going to move forward. I am taking my goals and running with them. With my Nike mindset and shoes.
Most of us have heard of making "SMART" goals: Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-managed goals. I have used this method of setting goals many times. I write specific details of my goals and what I want to achieve. So why, then, are there so many goals that have gone unreached? I don't do the work. My desire may be there, but my willingness to sacrifice what is necessary is not there. Isn't that dumb? haha it's kind of ridiculous to think about--I could be so much farther in all aspects of life if I would just work. I feel like we should expand the way of making "smart" goals to making "SMART NIKE" goals and add to the end of everything: JUST DO IT!
I tend to think too much about the past and all the things I have and haven't done, but today I am going to move forward. I am taking my goals and running with them. With my Nike mindset and shoes.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Ariana: The Making of a Queen
So I've finally finished another book. After the first, I started about 3 books and have finally finished one. Rachel Ann Nunes is the author (pretty sure it's from Deseret Book). It's about a girl who goes through a lot of tragedy in her late teens and her journey through more tragedy in her early twenties. And finally her story of joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, getting married, and starting a new life.
I liked it, except that the story ends really quickly without much description. Seemed to be finished in a rush. It requires no real concentration, so it was easy to read when I took the girls to the pool and there's a lot of people/noise. There are two more books in the series, so I'll probably read those next.
I'm really liking reading--just hope I can keep it up when I add school and a calling on top of working. We'll see, but for now I'll enjoy every opportunity!
I liked it, except that the story ends really quickly without much description. Seemed to be finished in a rush. It requires no real concentration, so it was easy to read when I took the girls to the pool and there's a lot of people/noise. There are two more books in the series, so I'll probably read those next.
I'm really liking reading--just hope I can keep it up when I add school and a calling on top of working. We'll see, but for now I'll enjoy every opportunity!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Nicholas Sparks, colds, and Mexican food
Just finished my first book: The Choice by Nicholas Sparks. If you didn't know, I'm an extremely slow reader compared to others at my reading level, so this book took me about a week to read (it probably would take a moderately fast reader just a couple of days). Not gonna lie, wasn't my favorite of Nich's collection. I don't want to ruin anything, but let's just say I was disappointed with the ending: it ends happy, but I don't think it should have. Anyways, I was really glad when I finished the last page--the story drug on and on ... and on. I'm excited to start a new story. Today.
Last weekend, I got a dear present from my mother. I have the joy of living with her currently, and even that does not stop her endless selflessness she shows toward me. It truly is remarkable to me how much our parents share with us - and so willingly too. They just want us to experience all the joys in life that they have experienced. I should've been more grateful for my gift she gave, but instead I was curled up in bed with aches and the most congested nose I think I have ever had. Yes, my mother gave me the cold. So sweet.
It's interesting how we forget how much colds really stink until--BAM!--you're sitting there with a massive headache and water randomly dripping out your nose, after you think you've gotten the running nose under control. Now, truth be told, it was a horrible head cold. However, I really do feel blessed to have been able to sleep for 2 days straight and then be fine, while my mother had to endure for about a week. So while I may not feel a tremendous amount of gratitude for the actual gift of the cold, I do give thanks to her for letting me sleep until noon to get over it!
So I traveled to my good friend's house out in the farmland of Idaho :) I had never actually spent any time there, but it was surprisingly fun to see it. It was a legitimate small farm town, and I love that. She told me stories about growing up and I think I saw every major landmark (the school, the grocery store, and the creek) in a matter of 2 minutes. Love it. The reason I went was to visit her before she went off to school for the rest of the summer, and also to try this Mexican resteraunt she had been raving about. We pulled up to a hole-in-the-wall resteraunt and was seated in the "new" portion, which made the entire place about as big as a classroom. I like Mexican food, but I wasn't convinced that El Gallo Giro was going to be "that amazing." But let me tell you--wow. I literally almost threw up because I couldn't stop eating the deliciousness on my plate (sorry for the graphic image now in your head). To top off the amazing enchalada, I ate half of a dulche de leche cheesecake. If you don't know what dulche de leche is, or have never tried it: you are a sinner. Find some and try it. Now.
To top off the great food, the service there was incredible. The business is completely family owned and run, so the whole feeling in the place was fun and relaxed. If I had the money, I would have tipped the waiter the same amount as my check. Oh and had I actually learned something in my 8th grade Spanish class, I probably would have flirted with the waiter too :) Anyways, great experience in farmland and great visit with a friend.
Last weekend, I got a dear present from my mother. I have the joy of living with her currently, and even that does not stop her endless selflessness she shows toward me. It truly is remarkable to me how much our parents share with us - and so willingly too. They just want us to experience all the joys in life that they have experienced. I should've been more grateful for my gift she gave, but instead I was curled up in bed with aches and the most congested nose I think I have ever had. Yes, my mother gave me the cold. So sweet.
It's interesting how we forget how much colds really stink until--BAM!--you're sitting there with a massive headache and water randomly dripping out your nose, after you think you've gotten the running nose under control. Now, truth be told, it was a horrible head cold. However, I really do feel blessed to have been able to sleep for 2 days straight and then be fine, while my mother had to endure for about a week. So while I may not feel a tremendous amount of gratitude for the actual gift of the cold, I do give thanks to her for letting me sleep until noon to get over it!
So I traveled to my good friend's house out in the farmland of Idaho :) I had never actually spent any time there, but it was surprisingly fun to see it. It was a legitimate small farm town, and I love that. She told me stories about growing up and I think I saw every major landmark (the school, the grocery store, and the creek) in a matter of 2 minutes. Love it. The reason I went was to visit her before she went off to school for the rest of the summer, and also to try this Mexican resteraunt she had been raving about. We pulled up to a hole-in-the-wall resteraunt and was seated in the "new" portion, which made the entire place about as big as a classroom. I like Mexican food, but I wasn't convinced that El Gallo Giro was going to be "that amazing." But let me tell you--wow. I literally almost threw up because I couldn't stop eating the deliciousness on my plate (sorry for the graphic image now in your head). To top off the amazing enchalada, I ate half of a dulche de leche cheesecake. If you don't know what dulche de leche is, or have never tried it: you are a sinner. Find some and try it. Now.
To top off the great food, the service there was incredible. The business is completely family owned and run, so the whole feeling in the place was fun and relaxed. If I had the money, I would have tipped the waiter the same amount as my check. Oh and had I actually learned something in my 8th grade Spanish class, I probably would have flirted with the waiter too :) Anyways, great experience in farmland and great visit with a friend.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
I think I'll read.
When I first started my blog, I wrote three days in a row. Not knowing if that was a little obsessive, I decided to wait a day or two. Well, of course that turned into a week and a day. Wow time really goes fast. I'm slowly learning that consistency is a really great thing for me.
So I'm nannying now for the sweetest little girls this summer and having a blast so far! To be completely honest, they are the easiest girls to watch and have a great time just playing together and not needing your constant attention. Therefore, I am finding that I have more down time than I had anticipated. Therefore, I am reading just for fun more than I think I ever have. So, I am going to write what I think about each book on my blog as a little added treat :) Hopefully I don't embarrass myself with my book choice. Just to give a heads up: I like fast reads and good stories. At this point I am not looking for a book that will really make me think, instead I would love easy reads and I'm hoping to get into biographies/historical kind of books. I guess we'll just have to see where this whole thing leads me. Wish me luck, and if you have any suggestions (any genre) just let me know!!
So I'm nannying now for the sweetest little girls this summer and having a blast so far! To be completely honest, they are the easiest girls to watch and have a great time just playing together and not needing your constant attention. Therefore, I am finding that I have more down time than I had anticipated. Therefore, I am reading just for fun more than I think I ever have. So, I am going to write what I think about each book on my blog as a little added treat :) Hopefully I don't embarrass myself with my book choice. Just to give a heads up: I like fast reads and good stories. At this point I am not looking for a book that will really make me think, instead I would love easy reads and I'm hoping to get into biographies/historical kind of books. I guess we'll just have to see where this whole thing leads me. Wish me luck, and if you have any suggestions (any genre) just let me know!!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
not graduated, not traveling, and not married...now what?
So since I'm new to this whole blogging thing, I decided to stalk some friends and family and check out their blogs to see what they look like and what people even write about (and they were all cute if anyone wanted to know). As I was searching the blog universe, most blogs consisted of big updates on life: marriage, traveling the globe, pregnancy announcements/updates, and just moving from one stage of life to the next. However, I am right smack in the middle of my stage. In fact, you could probably say that my life is on pause in a way while I stay home this summer to work. So when I'm not graduating, not traveling, and not married, what do I write about??
I've been sitting here for about 15 minutes trying to decide what the heck in my life is interesting enough to put on the internet. And so far, I've come up with nothing. I mean there are a lot of great things going on currently: I've had amazing dinners as my mother experiments with the grill, I slothfully sleep in each day because I don't have to be at work until mid-morning, I can watch America's Got Talent and TLC without distraction of school or work, and I bought my first Panda Express meal all by myself. My life is not boring, but eating SweetFire Chicken from an oriental fast food joint is not quite as monumental as having a boy!
Maybe once warm weather actually starts to settle in, I'll be able to have grand adventures to post about. But until then, you're stuck with my pathetic attempts at making my daily routines sound grand and entertaining :)
I've been sitting here for about 15 minutes trying to decide what the heck in my life is interesting enough to put on the internet. And so far, I've come up with nothing. I mean there are a lot of great things going on currently: I've had amazing dinners as my mother experiments with the grill, I slothfully sleep in each day because I don't have to be at work until mid-morning, I can watch America's Got Talent and TLC without distraction of school or work, and I bought my first Panda Express meal all by myself. My life is not boring, but eating SweetFire Chicken from an oriental fast food joint is not quite as monumental as having a boy!
Maybe once warm weather actually starts to settle in, I'll be able to have grand adventures to post about. But until then, you're stuck with my pathetic attempts at making my daily routines sound grand and entertaining :)
Home of the BRAVE
It's the end of a wonderful holiday, and I could not go to bed without expressing the feelings and memories I've experienced today.
Every Memorial Day my family goes to the local cemetery to lay flowers on friends' graves as well as see the Idaho State Veteran Cemetery. Before we left, my parents showed us kids a great video about some Marines. I'll try to post a link later (it's late now and so I shouldn't take the time now to figure it out). Anyways, afterward my youngest sister and I were talking and she expressed how sad she was that people picketed and protested our government and country. I saw where her young mind was coming from, but it really made me think -- that is why our servicemen are fighting. So that we can protest. So we can have the choice to express our frustrations with government and not get thrown into prison, or worse. It was at that moment when I think I realize what "fighting for freedom" really meant. It's not just fighting against bad, it's fighting for good. It's sad that it has taken me this long, but I finally know exactly what we mean when we talk of that broad term "freedom". And I could not be more grateful for our armed forces for sacrificing so much so that I can have that. I could NOT be more grateful.
Once we were at the cemetery, we visited friends that we visit every year and just remembered their love and friendship. That in itself is a wonderful experience each year. Once we got to the Veterans' Cemetery, I remembered my experience at the tomb of the unknown soldier. I hadn't thought about that in, literally, years. My freshman year of high school, a group of students went to Washington DC for part of a trip back east. One of our stops was at Arlington National Cemetery, which was probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Seeing headstone after headstone is such a somber experience. I also had the most amazing opportunity to be one of four students to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I was trying to explain to my siblings how the formality of the ceremony showed honor and respect, and how it showed gratitude to all those who have served, even the unknown. I do not remember every detail that happened as I laid the wreath down. I don't remember what the guard did or how long we were there, but I remember so vividly the feelings of respect, infinite gratitude, and love that I felt for every serviceman who has made my country a land of the free and a home of the brave.
Memorial Day is a great day to have a bbq, visit local cemeteries, and remember those we love. But what I love most is the hard reminder to remember our armed forces and all the sacrifices they make for you and me. THANK YOU TO ALL VETERANS. I love you, and hope that we as a country and as individuals will never take your service for granted.
Every Memorial Day my family goes to the local cemetery to lay flowers on friends' graves as well as see the Idaho State Veteran Cemetery. Before we left, my parents showed us kids a great video about some Marines. I'll try to post a link later (it's late now and so I shouldn't take the time now to figure it out). Anyways, afterward my youngest sister and I were talking and she expressed how sad she was that people picketed and protested our government and country. I saw where her young mind was coming from, but it really made me think -- that is why our servicemen are fighting. So that we can protest. So we can have the choice to express our frustrations with government and not get thrown into prison, or worse. It was at that moment when I think I realize what "fighting for freedom" really meant. It's not just fighting against bad, it's fighting for good. It's sad that it has taken me this long, but I finally know exactly what we mean when we talk of that broad term "freedom". And I could not be more grateful for our armed forces for sacrificing so much so that I can have that. I could NOT be more grateful.
Once we were at the cemetery, we visited friends that we visit every year and just remembered their love and friendship. That in itself is a wonderful experience each year. Once we got to the Veterans' Cemetery, I remembered my experience at the tomb of the unknown soldier. I hadn't thought about that in, literally, years. My freshman year of high school, a group of students went to Washington DC for part of a trip back east. One of our stops was at Arlington National Cemetery, which was probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Seeing headstone after headstone is such a somber experience. I also had the most amazing opportunity to be one of four students to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I was trying to explain to my siblings how the formality of the ceremony showed honor and respect, and how it showed gratitude to all those who have served, even the unknown. I do not remember every detail that happened as I laid the wreath down. I don't remember what the guard did or how long we were there, but I remember so vividly the feelings of respect, infinite gratitude, and love that I felt for every serviceman who has made my country a land of the free and a home of the brave.
Memorial Day is a great day to have a bbq, visit local cemeteries, and remember those we love. But what I love most is the hard reminder to remember our armed forces and all the sacrifices they make for you and me. THANK YOU TO ALL VETERANS. I love you, and hope that we as a country and as individuals will never take your service for granted.
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