Day 310: Miraculicious

Aha:
Work has been busy.  I mean REALLY busy.  So busy that I almost missed a really large scheduling error that would have put me in a big pickle.  Fortunately for me, about 15 minutes before the meeting, all of the stars in the heavens aligned, the angels sang a heavenly song and I happened to check the calendar.  I noticed I had double-booked a conference room and needed to find a replacement FAST.  I don't know how, but somehow, another conference room across the hall was available for the exact time frame I needed and I was able to reserve it for one of the groups.  No one was mad, everyone enjoyed their meetings and I avoided a rather nasty error.
I know 100% that a miracle happened today.  There was no reason for me to be looking at that calendar right then, the error wasn't obvious, (so the fact that I recognized it when I did is further proof of the miracle) and the spare conference room I needed and used is almost never available.
I am SO THANKFUL that Heavenly Father was watching out for me!  What a wonderful miracle!

Ha ha:
I meant to write about this on Friday, but didn't want to advertise that Clinton was out of town, so I'll do it today.
What does a girl eat for dinner when she's a bachelorette for the weekend?

A triple chocolate meltdown from Applebees of course!  (The main course, that is!)

*Notice Petey staring longingly in the background?  Ha!

Day 309: Hellos and Goodbyes

Aha:
One of my good friends moved out of state today :(  I didn't get a chance to tell her goodbye at church yesterday, so I drove over to her place at 830 last night to get one last hug.  When I got there, her little boy was crying and she was busy getting the house cleaned and the rest of what couldn't fit into their moving truck, out to the donation trailer.  I put down my purse and coat, rolled up my sleeves and got to work.
First, I went into the baby's room and got to rock him to sleep one last time.  Her little boy has meant a lot to me.  I used to rock him to sleep every week in Sunday school.  She would turn to me and say, "I don't know how you do it.  He never does that for me."  He made me feel special and gave me my baby-soothing fix.  I feel so lucky that I got to do it again before they left.
After the boy was asleep, I helped wipe down all the windows and made sure everything else was hauled out so she could get to bed before too long.
I totally intended on saying a quick goodbye (I'm not very good with them, and shorter is better), but when I saw that help was needed, I was more than happy to stay and help my friend.  I got to bed pretty late last night, but I am so thankful that I could be there.
Thank you Haley for everything.  You are a wonderful friend and the people of Louisiana are lucky to have you!  Be sure to give Brantley extra squeezes for me! :)

Ha ha:

Clinton returned home from a trip to Seattle yesterday.  I hadn't seen him in 3 days and was excited to have him back home...that is, until he slapped my bum when I was bent over getting something out of the fridge.  When I turned and looked at him with an annoyed look on my face he said, "I bet'cha missed that!"  

No.  I didn't.

Day 308: My Ritz is on the Fritz

Aha:
Got to spend the day with my gal pal, Chels.  I've never had so much running errands in my whole life!
Thanks Chels for kickin' back with me--love ya!

Ha ha:
What happens when you try to say "Couldn't give a rats" and "Couldn't give a rip" at the same time?  You embarrassingly shout out that you "Couldn't give a ritz!"  Ha ha!
I had hoped my friend didn't notice and then she asked, "Couldn't give a ritz?  Is that a new saying or something?"
"No," I replied, "I just mixed up my words and hoped you hadn't heard it, but I guess you did."  Ha ha!

Day 307: Whistling and Being In Tune

Aha:
For about the last hour of work yesterday, my coworker and I got to talking about overcoming trials.  We both addressed some of the trials we've faced and how having such wonderful spouses, family and friends can make those experiences so much easier to bear.  We talked about how we know that the Lord knows best for us and if we can just trust in His plan, we will be the better for it.
It was wonderful!  It is so refreshing to have such wonderfully peaceful feelings at work and I'm grateful to have shared them with my coworker today!
When I came home from work I had a client scheduled for a cut/highlights.  Her appointment was two hours, and I would venture to guess that a good hour of that was spent talking about God.  She and I aren't members of the same church either, but it doesn't take two people having a common church to have a common faith or belief.  Our conversation touched on knowing their is a god, the Atonement and the peace and healing it brings to our lives, faith in our trials, and trusting His plan for us.  We both feel/felt that we have grown in knowledge and faith because of our trials.  We both expressed our love for God and encouraged each other to endure.
It was wonderful!  Two uplifting spiritual-conversations in the space of a few hours!  What a lucky and blessed girl I am!

Ha ha:
The hospital I work for has very unique hold-music.  It never changes, there's never a pause to thank you for holding, or to say that some will be with you shortly; it just keeps playing over and over.  Anyway, I had just been on hold for about 15 minutes when I realized I needed to be somewhere.  I hung up the phone, walked over to the hospital, took the steps down to the first floor and reentered the main building.  The hold-music was continuing in my head that whole trip and as I rounded the corner in the main building I saw a group of four providers in deep conversation.  Unbeknownst to me, I started whistling the hold music really loudly.  Every single one of them turned to look at me, as if I was trying to get their attention.  I stopped.  Like a deer in the headlights.  I looked at each of them and said a quick, "Wup!  Sorry."
As soon as my back was turned from them, I broke into a huge grin and laughed to myself.  I had to have totally just looked like a crazy person to them!  Ha ha ha!

Day 306: Dog Lover

Aha:
Clinton has been studying like crazy these last couple weeks or so.  It feels like I've barely seen him.  But not only did he take time away from his studies to bring me my Thursday Speedway Soda, but both he and I took a little break on Thursday to have a short, but sweet, date.
Thanks, Honey for taking time from studying to be with me!  I love you so!

Ha ha:
My coworker sent me the following picture and I thought it was oh-so true--I must share.

Well, this made me think about a picture I had Clinton take of me and Peter last week.  It was time for bed and I had some extra things I needed to bring upstairs.  I HAD to carry Petey and didn't want to have to come back for a second trip...so I got inventive and resourceful!

I'm carrying a bottle of hairspray, a bottle of thermal protector, my cell phone's in my bra, and I of course, am also carrying Peter. :)

Day 305: S.O.S.

For my regular readers, you may be wondering why I haven't posted in 3 days, there's a story behind it and if you'll allow me, I can explain...
Aha:
I had a little bit of spare time to myself Wednesday evening, something that I love to have when I have it. I actually got to just "veg" on the couch and mindlessly watch some Netflix.  A blessing and a curse.  I don't know what "compelled" me, but last Saturday I started watching The Vampire Diaries series.

Ha ha:
I watched that show for 3 hours!  It was so dumb, but I got totally hooked.  These vampires are supposed to be 17-19 years old yet they totally have wrinkles and crow's feet!  Anyway, I couldn't help myself and I couldn't stop.  I started watching again on Wednesday and I am totally embarrassed, yet not, to say that all of my free time since this most fateful Wednesday has been spent watching this show.  I have watched all 23, 45-minute long episodes of the first season and can't WAIT to get into season two!  That's 16 hours that I have dedicated to this show since Saturday!
There you have it.  I have neglected cleaning my bathroom, doing my laundry, updating my blog, or anything else that could be seen as "productive" in order that I might find out what's happening next on VD.
Hello, my name is Danielle and...I have an addiction to a tv show.

Day 304: We All Make Mistakes

Aha:
I have really come to have a real fascination, admiration and adoration for President Uchtdorf.  He is oh-so-handsome to look at, but the inspirational words that come out of his mouth are unbelievable.  His most recent talk from this month's General Conference is titled "The Merciful Obtain Mercy".  I've a quote here I'd like to share.  It is somewhat lengthy, but I believe it is well worth the read.  My favorite parts are "stop it" and the bumper sticker.  What truth and what a solution!  Though it is not easy to do, I believe that "stopping it" is the best policy.

The Bottom Line

This topic of judging others could actually be taught in a two-word sermon. When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing, holding grudges, or wanting to cause harm, please apply the following:

Stop it!

It’s that simple. We simply have to stop judging others and replace judgmental thoughts and feelings with a heart full of love for God and His children. God is our Father. We are His children. We are all brothers and sisters. I don’t know exactly how to articulate this point of not judging others with sufficient eloquence, passion, and persuasion to make it stick. I can quote scripture, I can try to expound doctrine, and I will even quote a bumper sticker I recently saw. It was attached to the back of a car whose driver appeared to be a little rough around the edges, but the words on the sticker taught an insightful lesson. It read, “Don’t judge me because I sin differently than you.”

We must recognize that we are all imperfect—that we are beggars before God. Haven’t we all, at one time or another, meekly approached the mercy seat and pleaded for grace? Haven’t we wished with all the energy of our souls for mercy—to be forgiven for the mistakes we have made and the sins we have committed?

Because we all depend on the mercy of God, how can we deny to others any measure of the grace we so desperately desire for ourselves? My beloved brothers and sisters, should we not forgive as we wish to be forgiven?

Ha ha:
I walked into work this morning, just before 8am.  I ran into one of the docs who was leaving the office as I was taking off my coat.
Me:  Mornin' Meg.
She:  Hello.  I barely made it here on time today.
Me:  Oh? (thinking to myself, I'm here a little early, go me!)
She:  And it looks like you did too.
Me:  (I look down at my coat that's still on)  A little, I guess.
She:  For our 8am meeting?  For scheduling?
Me:  Oh.  OH!  Right!
She:  You remembered right?
Me:  Oh, yes.  Uh, I'll take off my coat and be right there!
I would have totally missed that meeting (or at least have been late until the reminder popped up on my computer) had I not run into her!  Phew and ha ha!

Day 303: A Tough Nut to Crack

Aha:
A friend of mine gave a talk in Sacrament Meeting that totally had my complete and total attention.  I sat there and listened, feeling like everything she said was said directly for my benefit.  I was so touched and uplifted by her talk that I asked for a copy.  Her talk "Enduring Through Your Trials and Tribulations" is based on the talk given by Ronald A. Rasband, "Special Lessons" from April's General Conference.  I will share a portion of it with you today.
"I was getting ready to go to the grocery store one day while Scott stayed home and studied. I got my keys and my coat and walked out to my car alone. I walked right up to the passenger door let myself in and shut the door behind me and just sat there. I am not sure what I was waiting for, but then realized that I would not be going anywhere quickly with no one driving. I got out of the passenger seat and headed towards the driver’s seat while laughing. When adversity comes and we are stuck in a fruitless cycle of self pity, dwelling on these questions which seem to have no satisfying answers, it is much like being stuck in a passenger seat and no one is in the driver’s seat and we aren’t going anywhere quickly. We need to change our position (back to the driver’s seat) if we ever hope to profit from adversity, and to do this we need the Lords help.

Elder Rasband says this in his talk, “At these moments we can turn to the great plan of happiness authored by our Heavenly Father. That plan, when presented in the pre-earth life, prompted us all to shout for joy. Put simply, this life is training for eternal exaltation, and that process means tests and trials. It has always been so, and no one is spared. Trusting in God’s will is central to our mortality. With faith in Him, we draw upon the power of Christ’s Atonement at those times when questions abound and answers are few.”

We must trust in the Lord and change our questions to: What am I to do? What am I supposed to learn from this experience, heartache, trial? What am I to change? Who can I help? How can I remember my blessings and be thankful for the things I have?....

I think that a lack of the correct perspective is often why it is so hard for us to change our questioning to a more productive type. If we could see the blessings and benefits which are ours by righteously passing through adversity then we would not view it as undesirable."

I love the reminders that I am in control of what I take from adversity.  It is so much easier (?) to give in to feeling sorry for yourself and wanting to blame others, but is that really easier in the end?  There is no satisfaction in dwelling on questions that don't yet have answers.  There are times when "just being patient" is what the Lord wants from us and there's nothing more we can do.  We need to put faith in the fact that He does know what is best and will provide a way for us to accomplish what He would have us do.  He knows what will bring us the ultimate progression, and most often that comes through trials.

Ha ha:
One of the docs I work for is named Sach (aka, Dr. Forgetful...no worries, Mom, it ain't no secret!).  While I was out grocery shopping this weekend, I came across the following...

and for obvious reasons, thought of him.  I bought a bag and gave them to him at work today.  While I was handing him the bag, one of our social workers walked in and asked what he got.  I said, "I bought him a bag of hot peanuts."
Sach replied, "Yeah, cause I'm hot."
She said, "Yeah, you're hot alright.  You're a real hot mess!"
My coworker and I totally starting busting up because, not only was this totally surprising to hear, but it is so true!  Sach took his nuts and walked out sulking....I swear, this innuendo was NOT intended, but I know some people are thinking it, so I might as well come out and clarify as much before I start getting a bunch of unruly comments on here!...you know who you are!

Day 302: Sharing is Caring

Aha:
Got to go on a wonderful walk with my friend Chels tonight while our husbands were both either studying or working.  Though it seriously felt like it was 20 degrees outside (brr!), we were both able to enjoy each other's company.  When our walk was over, we drove back to my house and continued our visit in her car.  When we had both thawed out some, we said "goodnight".
Thanks Chels for braving the cold to spend time with me!  Love ya!

Ha ha:
Saw this on FB and thought I'd share.

Day 301: Chocolate-Covered Challenges

Aha:
Though my visit was not exactly "successful" (I had to run into the bathroom once to dry my eyes a bit) I made an appearance at my friend's baby shower yesterday.  Baby showers and I don't get along very well and it's rare that I go to one, but I really wanted to show my friend how much I love and am happy for her.  We hugged several times and she thanked me for coming.  I only stayed for about five minutes, but I made it in the door!
I am so thankful for good friends who love me, are patient with me and care about me no matter what!  Thank you so much girls!  I'm also thankful for a loving Heavenly Father who helped me accomplish something I didn't think I could do.

Ha ha:
Let's just say that after my "traumatic" morning, I felt I deserved a special treat.  Clinton and I went out to get doughnuts (chocolate-glazed) and ice cream (chocolate-dipped...you sensing a pattern here?).  I ate all of my ice cream, all of my doughnut and half of Clinton's.  I felt much better. :)

Day 300: For Better or Worse

Aha:
I love being married.  It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.  ~Rita Rudner
Seriously though, I really do love my husband!  Our date night this week was a trip to Panda Express (subpar, unfortunately!), followed by a pit stop at Dollar Tree (to witness a stealing of items from said Dollar Tree) and McFlurries at McDonalds (got our order wrong).  When you've been lucky enough to find that one special person, even the most unexciting dates can be some of the best!

Ha ha:
A few weeks ago, I was having a sorta "bad mood" morning.  Nothing seemed to be going right and I think I was annoyed with something Clinton had done or said--and he knew it.  I sat down in front of my mirror and started putting on my make-up.  Clinton, trying to make me laugh/feel better, jokingly said something else that annoyed me.  I stopped what I was doing and looked up at him with one of those looks that said, Are you sure you wanna go down that road right now?  Seeing my face he said, "Too soon?"
I said, "Yes." but inside I actually thought it was quite funny!

Day 299: Lip Wrestle

Aha:
Clinton and I both had a chance to play with Petey-pup for a good long time today.  It was so much fun to see him have so much fun (Peter too)!  He played fetch and goalie with me, followed by lots of wrestling, chasing and rough-housing with Clinton.  When all was said and done Peter jumped up on the couch--panting--and laid down.  That is, until Clinton opened the food cupboard; he was off to the kitchen faster than you could say, "treat"! :)
I sure love my boys!

Ha ha:
I went into Clinton's study while he was, well, studying.  Peter was laying on the floor.  This is the conversation we had.
Me:  I have a very serious question to ask you.
He:  Me, or him. (looking at Peter)
Me:  (laugh) You.
He:  'K.  What?
Me:  Would you still love me, if my lips were this thin and weird looking? (made this face)

He:  Probably not.  (smirking like he knows he's about to say something witty)  You're on "thin" ice.
Me:  (Eye roll)

Day 298: Waive Your Hands in the Air!

Aha:
A couple of weeks ago I blogged (found here) about a friend of mine who had someone in her family falsely accused of something terrible.  She called me today to tell me that she got the best anniversary present (today's her and her husband's anniversary)...their attorney called to tell them that all of the charges "will not be pursued" and have been dropped!!
This has been an unexpected and rather heavy burden for them to bear and I am so thankful that all of our many prayers for them have been answered!  What a wonderful blessing!!!

Ha ha:
Ok.  This person shall remain anonymous, but only because he/she asked to remain so.  Anyway, this person and I were driving down the street tonight and saw "Mickey Mouse" waiving at cars as they passed on the street.  He/she thought it was really odd to have Mickey randomly out on the street, waiving at people.  We went to our meeting and then came back the same way.  Mickey was still there.

Upon seeing him the second time, he/she started the following conversation...
H/S:  Really?  What is Mickey doing there?
Me:  I dunno.  Waiving?
H/S:  But why?  He's not advertising anything.
Me:  (shoulder shrug)
H/S:  I know it's not really him, but what's he doing here?
Me:  (LAUGHING!)  Of course that's not really Mickey!  It's only someone dressed up to look like Mickey!
H/S:  That's not what I meant!  I meant that it's not real.
Me:  (LAUGHING)  I know.  It's a costume.  You mean it's not "Disney's quality" of a costume.  Like it's homemade?
H/S:  Yes.
Me:  I'm so putting this on my blog!
H/S:  Fine.  Just don't say my name.
Ok.  I didn't he/she-who-shall-remain-nameless, but, man was that funny!

Day 297: I Found Time for Service...and Waldo!

Aha:
I mentioned on Monday that I had finished cleaning one of our psychologist's office on Monday and thought I'd document my hard work.

Before:

After:

This doctor was SO thankful!  It made me feel so good to help her out.  I knew she'd never have time for it, and although I have been so busy, it made it feel that much better to sacrifice what little time I did have for someone else.

Ha ha:
Guess who found "Waldo" on her way home from Green Bay on Saturday?

Day 296: Walking and Working...It's Not What You're Thinking

Aha:
Today was a rather busy but productive day!  Here's a brief breakdown of what I got accomplished today.
WORK:
Finalized coordinating the schedule for a visiting professor next month (been working on this for a few weeks), cleaned one our psychologist's office and turned it from a "disaster" into an actual "work space", got caught up on my emails and tasks from last week!
HOME:
Cleaned my kitchen, dining room and bathroom, caught up on my blog, did some reading, played with Peter and will be in bed by 1030!
Wowee, what a day!

Ha ha:

I got a call from Clinton about four minutes before the end of work.  "Wanna a free ride home?"

"Yes!" I said!

"Be out in 1 minute or the offer is off the table!"

"I can be out in two."

"Nope.  It's one minute or you're walkin'."

"It'll be two.  Love ya!"

"No..."

"Love ya!" (click)

What a treat to not have to walk home!  We've had some pretty windy weather here (35-40mph gusts) and I was not looking forward to trudging home in it!

Thanks for thinking of me and for picking me up Honey...even though you're a real sassy pants sometimes! :)

Day 295: "Bringing Up" the Past

Aha:

“May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten”

-Irish Blessing

Ha ha:
I keep meaning to write about this but forget, so here goes.
When I was about 10- or 11-years-old I slept on the top bunk of mine and my sister's bunk bed, and one or more of the cats would usually sleep with me.  One night, I had a dream that I was sitting on the couch watching an episode of Wheel of Fortune.  Much as I do in real life, I was shouting out letters for the puzzle.  The game proceeded for a bit until the puzzle became quite obvious.  One male contestant buzzed-in to solve.  When Pat asked him to solve the puzzle, the contestant just stood there with a blank face.  "I forgot" he said.  "I forgot.  I forgot.  I forgot."  He said it faster and faster.
In my dream, and apparently in reality, I sat up and leaned closer to the television screen to get a better look at what was going on.  "I forgot.  I forgot.  I forgot."
Leaning closer, I woke up, opened my eyes from sleep and looked onto my bed to see my cat coughing up a hairball.  I was all the way on the top bunk so I couldn't push him down but couldn't get up fast enough before he vomited all over my bed.
Moral of the story?  If you hear something/someone repeating something over and over in your dream WAKE UP!; there's probably some sort of mischief going on around you!

Day 294: Go Pack Go!

Aha:
We have about 14 months left here in Wisconsin (hard to believe, I know) before moving back West for residency.  About a month ago we decided to create a "bucket list" of things we want to do before we leave and to do one each month.  This month was "Go on a tour of Lambeau Field--NFL stadium of the Green Bay Packers--in Green Bay".  So, we loaded up our car and headed northeast for two hours.
First of all, the weather was absolutely GORGEOUS!!  Secondly, it was great to be on a little road trip with each other!

Well, the tour guides were entertaining and the stadium was amazing!  We learned it's the third largest stadium in the NFL but the largest stadium in a small town (the stadium seats 73,000 currently but is under renovation to seat 85,000--the population of Green Bay is only 104,000).  

We also learned that Packer fans are the "biggest" sports fans; not only does their pro shop sell size 4XL shirts (must be all the cheese), their shop sells more merchandise than any pro shop of any other sport!  And I believe it!  Packer gear is a MUST here in Wisconsin and you're looked at funny if you don't wear something Packer-ish.  As a part of the tour we got to go into one of the luxury suites (cost of renting per year is anywhere from $59,000-$120,000)! 

 (Up in the suite)

(View from luxury suite)

Finally, we got to run through "the tunnel", where the players enter the field, to the sounds of 73.000 cheering fans!

We cheered the Packer cheer "Go Pack Go!" and heard it echo through the stadium.  Pretty cool. 

We had a great time, but by the end...I think I was Packer-ed out!

Ha ha:
Outside Lambeau Field are two statues; one of Curly Lambeau and the other is of Vince Lombardi (two of the Packers previous coaches).  I called the two "Statue of Blame".

"Uhhh, he did it!"

Day 293: Thriller

Aha:
I came home from a rather BUSY week at work and had to get ready for my voice student.  I was feeling rather rushed and in my haste to get ready I noticed a box on the ground.  A package!!
I received my Christmas gifts and birthday gifts from my mom and dad today--a little late, yes, but that's ok (now I get an extra celebration)!  I got a really cute gray a-line skirt and a navy/purple sweater!  I LOVE THEM!  We also got some moolah and my mom sent a couple packs of face cleansing cloths, a couple of my grandma's old necklaces and a pair of her slippers. What a lovely surprise and a great way to end my week!!
Thanks Mom and Dad!  Love you too!

Ha ha:
I saw on FB that my sister said her almost-three-year-old son keeps asking to go to "the spinning top store".  She had no idea where he meant and asked what the store looked like and he said, "like the spinning top store".
I thought for sure he meant Target, but I guess that's "the circle store".  Anyway, I thought I'd try to help out and googled "store logo looks like spinning top" and this is the picture that came up.

I don't know what store THIS would be the logo for, but I DO know that I'm now going to have nightmares tonight.  Eesh!

Day 292: Head Over Heels

Aha:
Clinton and I had an appointment to attend this afternoon.  When our appointment was finished we decided to make an afternoon of it and headed over to the mall, followed by dinner at Red Robin (where we were pleasantly surprised to discover one of our meals was free cause of our rewards club bonus!!) and McFlurries at McDonalds for dessert.  We went all out and had a blast!  Thanks for the date H.B.!  I loved it and I love you!

Ha ha:
I went into Boston Store to look at their shoes.  I walked around for a while and noticed that I was dressed like all of the workers--black pants, black boots, black sweater and a colored shirt.  What do you want to bet that someone is going to assume I work here and ask for my help?  Sure enough, a few minutes later I was comparing a couple different pairs of shoes (looked like I was doing inventory, I'm sure) and a girl walked up to me and said, "What's this sale going on about?"  I knew it. 
I laughed, "Are you talking to me?  I'm sorry, but I don't work here."
She looked up from the shoes, totally embarrassed and laughed.
"I know,", I said, "I just realized I'm dressed like all of the sales associates here."
"You totally are.  Take it as a compliment though, you look really nice!"
We both laughed, looked back at our shoes and slowly walked away; neither of us making a purchase.

Day 291: Handling Crap with Care

Aha:
One of my friends is going through a really hard time right now.  Someone dear to her has been falsely accused of something rather terrible and now her whole family is having a hard time.  She and I talked a lot today it was amazing to feel the spirit during our talks.  We talked about God and how he will never leave us during our trials.  We talked about how sometimes our faith has to be tested but that if we trust in his power and plan for us, we can conquer anything.
She's not a member of my church, but I remembered a talk from this last General Conference and decided to share it with her, because it brought me peace and I knew it could do the same for her.  The talk was given by Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, titled "Mountains to Climb".  Here are a few of my favorites from it...

When hard trials come, the faith to endure them well will be there, built as you may now notice but may have not at the time that you acted on the pure love of Christ, serving and forgiving others as the Savior would have done. You built a foundation of faith from loving as the Savior loved and serving for Him. Your faith in Him led to acts of charity that will bring you hope.

It is never too late to strengthen the foundation of faith. There is always time. With faith in the Savior, you can repent and plead for forgiveness. There is someone you can forgive. There is someone you can thank. There is someone you can serve and lift. You can do it wherever you are and however alone and deserted you may feel.

I cannot promise an end to your adversity in this life. I cannot assure you that your trials will seem to you to be only for a moment. One of the characteristics of trials in life is that they seem to make clocks slow down and then appear almost to stop.

There are reasons for that. Knowing those reasons may not give much comfort, but it can give you a feeling of patience. Those reasons come from this one fact: in Their perfect love for you, Heavenly Father and the Savior want you fitted to be with Them to live in families forever. Only those washed perfectly clean through the Atonement of Jesus Christ can be there.


If we have faith in Jesus Christ, the hardest as well as the easiest times in life can be a blessing. In all conditions, we can choose the right with the guidance of the Spirit. We have the gospel of Jesus Christ to shape and guide our lives if we choose it. And with prophets revealing to us our place in the plan of salvation, we can live with perfect hope and a feeling of peace. We never need to feel that we are alone or unloved in the Lord’s service because we never are. We can feel the love of God. The Savior has promised angels on our left and our right to bear us up.¹⁰ And He always keeps His word.

Ha ha:
Took Peter for a walk.  He pooped.  I reached to pick it up with a grocery bag over my hand.  Something made me stop and look to make sure all of my fingers were covered.  Sure enough, my pinky was poking through a hole in the bag and would have become the perfect poo-skewer if I didn't notice in time.  Phew!

Day 290: No Stone Left Unturned

Aha:
So thankful for rest, water, antibiotics, indoor plumbing and Netflix.  I'm also thankful for frozen pizza and sick pay.  Without these things, I may not have made it as easily through the day. :)

Ha ha:

There comes a time in the lives of the lucky when they triumph over a foe or pass a difficult test...or in my case--a kidney stone.  

There comes a time in the lives of the unlucky when they pass their second kidney stone.

There comes a time in the lives of poor souls when they pass their third kidney stone.

And there comes a time in my life when I've done all the above, and then some, topped by another stone yesterday.

Now I just view them as a "drop in the bucket" or toilet.  What's that doc?  I have four more in my kidney?  There's a chance they could just stay in there and not bother me?  Ha!  We'll see about that!

Fortunately for me, my coworkers were able to cover so I could stay home to drink and pee to my bladder's content.  Oh yah, cause I have a bladder infection too!  Ha!

Day 289: Bippity-Boppity-Boo!

Aha:
I had a hard time getting out of bed this morning, but for some reason once I did I took a really fast shower.  I was so glad to have some extra time to get ready and it's a good thing I had it-because it took me about 5 tries to get my hair to work properly.  Then when I made my egg-whites, the shell on my very last egg broke the yolk and it fell into my whites.  It took me several minutes to get as much yolk out as possible, setting me even further behind.  When all was said and done, I barely got out the door on time for work!
I'm so thankful I had those extra minutes from my speedy shower this morning or I'd have been a hungry, stringy-haired late-comer to work!

Ha ha:
Last night, Clinton was playing with Peter and his "baby" (see below, but picture zebra print).

Clinton likes to hold one end of the toy and bop Peter on the head, sides, belly, feet--pretty much wherever he can get 'im--with the other end.  Peter gets all riled up and frantically tries to bite it; it's a great way to get his energy out.  Well, last night's game ended a little differently than Clinton would have hoped.
I was busy catching up on my blog, but out of the corner of my eye I could see Clinton bopping Peter with his baby rather quickly (up-down-up-down).  Peter was getting frustrated and I could hear his little jaws snapping at his toy.  Then I heard, "Ugh!  Oh, ew!"
"What?", I ask.
"Bleck!  Peter caught the toy but let go of it and the spot he had just been chewing went right in my mouth!  I just got a mouthful of Peter's spit!"
And that's when I said, "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!  Gross.  Ha ha ha!"

Day 288: Ye Shall Obtain

Aha:
The closing hymn in Sacrament Meeting was, "I Believe in Christ".  My first thought was, Ugh, this is such a long song, but I soon found myself engrossed in the words and was moved to tears by the fourth verse.
I believe in Christ; he is my King!
With all my heart to him I'll sing;
I'll raise my voice in praise and joy,
In grand amens my tongue employ.
I believe in Christ; he is God's Son.
On earth to dwell his soul did come.
He healed the sick; the dead he raised.
Good works were his; his name be praised.


I believe in Christ; oh blessed name!
As Mary's Son he came to reign
'Mid mortal men, his earthly kin,
To save them from the woes of sin.
I believe in Christ, who marked the path,
Who did gain all his Father hath,
Who said to men: "Come, follow me,
That ye, my friends, with God may be."


I believe in Christ-- my Lord, my God!
My feet he plants on gospel sod.
I'll worship him with all my might;
He is the source of truth and light.
I believe in Christ; he ransoms me.
From Satan's grasp he sets me free,
And I shall live with joy and love
In his eternal courts above.

I believe in Christ; he stands supreme!
From him I'll gain my fondest dream;
And while I strive through grief and pain,
His voice is heard: "Ye shall obtain."
I believe in Christ; so come what may,
With him I'll stand in that great day
When on this earth he comes again
To rule among the sons of men.
(Text: Bruce R. McConkie, 1915-1985)

How grateful I am for the Savior and for all of the love and happiness He brings to my life.  It is because of Him that I am able to overcome my trials, or at least bear them until I can overcome them.  What a wonderful gift the Atonement is to me.  "I believe in Christ; so come what may."

Ha ha:

There is a little girl at church that loves me (I of course, love her too).  Lately, every time she sees me, she wishes me Happy Birthday.  Anyway, after Sacrament Meeting I walked up to speak with the bishop.  When I turned around her mom came up to me and said her daughter had something to ask me.  I turned to her and she asked, "Did you get those shoes for your birthday?"  (I was wearing my hot pink platform Jessica Simpson pumps.)  I laughed and told her I had.  Her mom went on to tell me what had transpired to bring up this conversation.
Apparently, when I walked up to lead the choir in their musical number, her daughter turned to her and said, "Mommy!  Look at her pink shoes!"  She asked her if she liked them and she emphatically said, "Yes!...Can I go touch them?"  She told her to wait till after Sacrament.
So, after Sacrament when I walked past them to speak with the bishop, unbeknownst to me, my friend's daughter was crouched down on the ground poking and stroking the back of my shoes, during my entire conversation!  Ha ha!

Day 287: In the Blink of an Eye

Aha:
The other day we were driving down the road towards the sunset; we were in the right lane.  In the left lane, a car stopped to cross traffic but the car behind it decided it didn't want to wait so (without looking) it pulled into our lane.  Fortunately, Clinton foresaw this happening, and slowed down before the car could run into us.  So thankful that accident was avoided!

Ha ha:
We bought a pie last night to have with our stir-fry Easter dinner.  As soon as we came home, Clinton said he was going to have "a piece".  Before we knew it, a third of our pie was gone.
THIS is why we don't buy or make much desserts--they are gone faster than is probably sociably acceptable for two people!  But boy was that pie delish!!

Day 286: Waiting in Line

Aha:
During our date on Friday, we stopped at a store to return a sweater I bought a couple weeks ago.  Anyway, the line was hecka long and so I had lots of time to listen to the people around me in line.  There were two girls in front of me, probably in their late teens/early twenties, talking about the drugs and partying they'd be doing for Easter.  This led to conversations about how their boyfriends were cheating losers.
Standing there listening to them, I became increasingly thankful for my upbringing.  I had been raised to believe that I was worth so much more than the here-and-now; that this life is a gift from God.  I wanted to tell both of them that they were beautiful and worth it, but I knew I'd come across as a weirdo.  So, I said a little prayer that they would be safe and make choices that would bring them happiness.
There is so much more to this life and it is accessible to anyone who'll have it!

Ha ha:
While I was finishing up in line, Clinton went next door to Dollar Tree to use the restroom.  I went in to find him and found $15 worth of purchases!  Who knew using the bathroom at a store could be so expensive?

Day 285: To Cone and Condone

Aha:
I had a voice student scheduled for a lesson Thursday evening.  When they didn't show, I sent them a text and said, "Haven't seen you.  Hope you're ok.  But since you're not here Clinton and I are going for ice cream cones."  Clinton and I took off and drove to McDonald's to enjoy some iced cream.  It was wonderful impromptu date!

Ha ha:
Clinton told me that he "had" to swear the other day while dictating a session with one of his psych patients.  I asked if he couldn't just spell it out or say, "the B-word" and he said no.  He said he had also had to clearly pronounce them, loudly, to his attending physician.  By the end of telling me, we were both laughing picturing him swearing so boldly.  As much as he loves to use "hell" and "damn", anything beyond that would never come out of his mouth!

Day 284: Carrot=Garrote in My Th-roat

Aha:
Carrots and I don't typically get along.  Things will be all great for a while until suddenly, a carrot will start choking me out of nowhere.  It's been a while.  I was starting to feel like we might finally be getting along...nope!
Things were really busy today, as they have been all week, and thought I'd double-task:  crunch on my carrots while crunching numbers on a pie chart.  Well, next thing I knew, a carrot was lodged in my throat and I was choking.  Fortunately (?) for me this has happened quite a few times in my life and I instinctively knew what to do.  I quickly brought up a sharp cough and dislodged the chunk of carrot before things got too serious.  Phew!
My coworker kept her face to her computer screen and asked, "Everything ok over there?"
"Yup.  Just choked on a carrot, but I'm ok."

Ha ha:
When I started at my job two years ago, I distinctly remember the first time I brought carrots to work.  Why's that?  Because, even though I hardly knew my coworkers at the time, I told them that I didn't eat carrots when I was alone, I was about to eat some, and then asked each of them if they knew the heimlich maneuver and if they'd be willing to do it on me any time I choked.
Do I keep anything to myself??

Day 283: Declaratory and Subliminal Messages

Aha:
Another easy "aha"--today is my dad's birthday and what a great opportunity I have to showcase his being a blessing in my life! (It is also my sister's and her daughter's birthday and I love them lots and wish them happy b-day too!!)
First off, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!
I love you very much and am so thankful for you in my life!  I know I can always count on you for a Father's Blessing and I always receive so much comfort from your counsel.
You are a poetic genius!  You have an unbelievable way turning a thought or feeling into beautiful words.  Your quick whit and spirituality (although not usually used at the same time :) are exemplified in your poetry and I love reading what you have to say!
Thank you for your love and support.  You are a rock!  You are a wonderful example of "giving the benefit of the doubt" and in sharing your blessings with others.
Thank you for teaching me what to expect from my husband by the way you love and treat Mom.  Watching you two I knew what I wanted...even if I had to go all the way to Canada to find it. :)
Thank you for all of your words of encouragement, thank you for making me feel special and thank you for all of your prayers and efforts on my behalf.
I love you, Dad!

Ha ha:
My sister made a cake for her daughter, my other sister and her daughter, and my dad for their birthdays.  I logged onto FB to take a peek.  It's amazing!  However, upon further inspection of the screen shot, I noticed a rather ironic advertisement in the lower right corner.

Ha ha!

Day 282: Let the Sweet Times Roll!

Aha:
Not sure if you'd count this as a miracle or not, but I certainly do--my Monday practically flew by!  Before I knew it, the clock struck 430 and I was outta there!  Hopefully tomorrow (and the rest of my week) brings much of the same busyness!  Woohoo!

Ha ha:

These are my favorite of all doughnuts.   I love everything about them (well, except for the calories)!  They are delicious.  They are wonderfully delightful!  However, when you want one, you can't find them for nothin'!
I've been craving one of these little wonders for the last week or so and each time I've run to the deli or the grocery store they are sold out.  (insert frowny face here).  In fact, I spent about 15 minutes at work today checking all of the "food spots" to see if they had them.  First the deli, then the coffee stand, next the cafeteria, followed by the cafe and then lastly, the gift shop (I was desperate, alright?).  Nothing.
Somehow I made it through the rest of my workday and returned home.
Clinton asked if I wanted to get some ice cream for dessert but I told him, "I REALLY want a doughnut!  Can we find a place that actually sells them, and then can we go there???"  Being the "sweet" boy that he is, he found a place nearby and drove me there in a hurry.
I ran inside and tried to look calm as I wiped away the drool falling from the corners of my mouth and told the cashier in my most unruffled voice, "I'd like two sour cream doughnuts please."  My heart started racing as he actually stopped to tape together my slightly torn $5 bill before giving me my doughnuts (I'm a woman craving doughnuts, sir, kindly hurry it up!!).  Finally, he handed me my bag and I skipped out to the car.
I reached into the bag and pulled out my confectionary craving.  I pulled off a small piece and placed it into my mouth..."MMMMMMMMM!!!!", I shouted.  "Oh my!  So delicious!"
Maybe next time I won't wait so long in between doughnuts.  I think I dang-near turned into a crazy lady this time! :)

Day 281: Laughter and Gas-X are the Best Medicines

Aha:

Ha ha:
Speaking of senses of humor and escape valves--I'd like to share a rather "moving" quote I heard a while ago that always makes me laugh.
"A fart is a poop honking for the right of way"
I said I had a quote to share, not that it would be a good one. :)

Day 280: Living It Up

Aha:

Ha ha:
Got a call from our friends at 11:48pm on Saturday asking if we wanted to "hang out".  I looked at Clinton, he looked at me and for some crazy reason we said, "Sure."  We got in our car and drove to a pub down the road.  Clinton ordered a Diet Coke and I ordered a Diet Sprite.  Not sure how fun we were (I was half-asleep after all) but it was rather nice to "hang out" with a couple of young 'uns.
Needless to say, I slept in rather late on Sunday...good thing it was General Conference!