The Rooftops of the World

Goodbye!

2009-11-17T07:19:00.000-08:00

I honestly have no time to run a blog while I've got work, updating my facebook and the family website, spending time with my loved ones and planning a wedding so I think I'm going to shut this blog down. It used to be enjoyable for me but honestly now it's just another task on my to do list and so this will be my last post. If you really want to know how I'm doing....call me once in a while and I'll tell you. :)

Bye!

I'm Engaged

2009-11-02T08:49:00.000-08:00

With so many people asking me for the story of my engagement I'm all out of minutes on my cell phone so the rest of you get the story here.

Cory and I met in Kindergarten when we were 6 years old. He became best friends with my twin brother when he was 7 or 8 and I became "Nick's sister" to him. When we hit 6th grade (12 years old) we became friends. We played together at recess and had class together. Through Junior High and High School we stayed best friends and grew to rely on each other for relationship advice, laughter and growing experiences. Cory was always the friend I took for granted and he was always the friend who's shoulder I cried on after a break up or a hard day. Cory did they same thing with me. He would come to me for advice on girls and come to me for comfort after a messy break up or when he needed to relax.

Cory left on his mission to Taiwan and I continued to date other boys. When he came home I noticed the change that had taken place in him and fell head over heels in love with him. He unfortunately had already decided not to date any of his old High School friends so we resumed out friendship and I went away to Washington DC. After a some soul searching and a self transformation I came home to Cory who was still on the dating scene.

He would go on a date on Monday, hang out with me on Tuesday and Wednesday to "recover" from the disappointing dates and then go out again on Thursday. This happened for about 2 months before Cory realized that out of any person he knew he wanted to date me the most.

About 2 weeks ago we started to date and realized that it was SO much fun. We would go to Nickelcade, BBQs and have game night. It only took about 4 days for him to be in love with me as much as I already loved him. About a week ago we prayed to know what we should do and both of us got the green light from the Lord to get married. About 4 or 5 days ago he asked my mom and my twin permission to marry me and then yesterday he proposed.

I've never been so happy, so stressed and so in love before in my life. I'll be posting updates here on wedding plans and key events so stay tuned. :)

Unexpected and without ceremony...

2009-10-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

...that is how so many worthwhile things come to us in this life. Not to say that hard work and dedication in school, work and family don't bring great satisfaction.

I think so often we have this picture in our minds of how our lives will work out and what is best for us but almost always what we have in mind for ourselves is not what the Lord has in mind for us. School, work and family. Have they always gone exactly has you have envisioned? Have things perfectly fallen into the parameters of your "plan" or have you had the rug pulled out from under you time and again as I have.

The Lord has a wonderful way of spinning things about. Teaching us that his ways are not our ways and that ultimately he has our best interest at heart. Just when you think you have a good "plan" for your life he comes in and, in all his mercy, shows you that he knows a better way. A way that will provide more happiness than we ever thought possible.

Often these moments of teaching are just that: a moment. One single moment where the light clicks on and we suddenly realize what we truly want and what we need to do to get it. Sometimes their are events that lead up to the moment. They can come in the space of just a few hours or weeks. It's amazing to me what a difference 4 days can make in a persons life. When that moment comes don't let it slip away. Grab on to it even though you may be afraid. Even though you are unsure of the turns the path may take. Focus on what is directly ahead and never let go of the Lord's hand.

I have recently (and many times before) been hit by that happiness which comes when we are looking the other way and this post is motivated by the fact that I'm still light headed and suffering from post situational disbelief. :) I honestly can't think of a single thing I might have done to deserve this kind of happiness but that is just the picture of the Lord' mercy and love for us. We rarely deserve the blessings he sets upon us and yet he continually gives.

Most importantly, for those who feel without hope, don't forget that those moments of stunning beauty and overwhelming happiness are right around the corner but like anything worth having they will come unexpectedly and without ceremony...as long as we have the faith to receive them and the courage to act on them.

Breakfast

2009-10-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Callie, Mom and I went up AF canyon to eat breakfast and watch the sunrise. I'll let the pictures do the talking here. After breakfast we drove the Alpine Loop to see the fall colors and enjoy the mountain air.

Yes, we built a snowman.

Etsy Shop

2009-09-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

This is the official announcement of my sister's Etsy shop! If you don't know, Etsy is the greatest site where you can buy and sell things that are handmade. But I'm warning you, once you start looking it can be addicting! She has a couple of skirts, a dress, and a few bags up right now. There is a button on the side bar that will take you to the shop so you can browse. So cute and all handmade by my sister Larissa Kindred. Check it out!

National Talk Like a Pirate Day

2009-09-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was National Talk Like a Pirate Day! Aren't you sad you missed out?

Yes, I spent the day dressed and talking like a pirate! Scurvy dog!!! My family decided to go to the zoo and check out all of the new baby animals. There are several new arrivals. Baby snow leopard, tiger cubs, an elephant and giraffe calf, baby meerkats, and a baby crocodile. It was pretty crowded because this was the first weekend that the new baby elephant was out for the public to view.

The new baby was rolling around in the mud and still learning how to use it's trunk to get food from it's mother. He was a little unsteady on his feet still and unsure what do do when his trunk got in the way of his feet.

We hit the zoo in the late afternoon and it didn't take long for me to realize that wearing pirate boots was a bad idea when you have several hours of walking around to do...
My favorite animals by far are the spider monkeys. They were absolutely in love with Rosie's necklace and so spent the whole time we were there right up against the windows.

When we stopped for a snack break the Colobus monkeys started to yelp and scream for no apparent reason. It was really cool to hear and a bit freaky.

All of the animals were out and pretty active which is unusual for mid-summer. If you want to see the animals do crazy things go to the zoo in the dead of winter right around feeding time. The zoo is practically empty and so the animals drop any reservations.

After the zoo we went to eat at one of my favorite places, Village Inn. Pumpkin pie isn't only for Thanksgiving, folks!

So next year...don't forget to talk like a pirate!

Pooh Sticks and thoughtful spots...

2009-09-08T06:22:00.000-07:00

I'm speaking of course of American Fork Canyon. My family always buys a year round pass so we can picnic in the warm seasons and sled in the cold and on Saturday we had a picnic.

I grew up in American Fork and spent every summer up at Mutual Dell with the girls from the ward or my family. It's the perfect place for ultimate frisbee, water fights, and campfire songs. I grew up on the songs of John Denver, the Muppets and the Beatles. Those were my campfire songs.

In the fall the canyon is perfectly cool and the leaves are just starting to turn. On Saturday we went up at about 5pm and ate dinner. After dinner we played a game called, "See who can stand to be in the water the longest without getting hypothermia". I think I won. :) We built a fire to thaw our feet and made smores. We even had a contest to see who could melt their marshmellow into the weirdest shape. I can't tell who won...

After the fire went out and before the sun was completely gone we packed up our stuff and stopped for one game of Pooh sticks. For those of you not familiar with Pooh sticks: everyone takes a stick and throws it on one side of a bridge and who's ever stick comes out the other side first is the winner. It's from the short film "A Day for Eeyor" and my brother has even gone as far as playing Pooh logs in which he was the only participant because everyone else lacked the strength to join in.

Before heading home we drove around the rest of the loop. No one talked. I had my iPod in hand and spent the half hour marveling at God's paint brush and feeling the cold canyon air. I love the fall and I especially love the fall in Utah. These days don't last though so be sure you get out and enjoy them before they slip away.

Yesterday was of course Labor Day and the national BBQ day. We congregated at my sister Amanda's house and enjoyed Aloha Burgers, potato salad, horse shoes, badminton, and smore cupcakes. We rounded out the night with a game of Mad Gab and I being it's been so long since I last played I was surprised at how well my team did. I've said it a million times and I'll say it again: I love my family! There is nothing more fun than being around my family. Even if we just sit around and chat, it still turns into a party. Unfortunately at this party I didn't take any pictures.

My favorite time of year, my favorite people on Earth, and delicious food. Does life get any better?

What I miss...

2009-08-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about my recent trip and what a good experience it turned out to be and I've made a list of some things I'll miss now that I'm in Utah and what things I was glad to get away from. Also thrown in are some things about Utah I missed while I was on the east coast.

First of all just to get the negative out of the way: Ticks. You all knew I was going to say it! Blood sucking, disease carrying monsters who made it impossible to play in the back yard. I am so not missing them and my heart goes out to Linsay who is stuck with them for the next year.

Humidity: I guess it's not that bad if you've grown up with it but I haven't and I felt that it would have been greatly beneficial for me to grow a set of gills while walking around the city.

As for things I'll miss: East coast storms. Nothing like the wimpy rain we get in the desert. When they have a storm they don't mess around and it only takes 3 seconds to go from dry to drowning.

Rita's Italian Ice: They make home made custard and mix it with the Italian ice. Amazing! I've heard the passion fruit flavor is the best but they didn't have that flavor when I went. Only open for three months during the summer, Rita's is the hotspot in Maryland and is the perfect way to cool off.

Farmer's market: In DC every Friday they have a huge farmer's market right by the Department of Commerce. People sell pretzels, honey, fruits and veggies, ice cream and home made bread. We do have some fun farmer's markets here in Utah but they're nothing compared to DC.

Public Transportation: I know we have that in Utah as well but everyone knows the the bigger the city the better the mass transit system is. I loved being able to hop on the Prince George station rail and go anywhere. They have trains that run EVERYWHERE and it is so easy (and cheap) to see all of DC by metro.

Salamanders and Toads: Although I sometimes got grossed out by the creatures running around our yard I miss having tiny lizards and toads come out every time it rains. Plus toads and salamanders eat bugs to they are pretty much my best buds.

Tonks: My sister's crazy cat! She sat on my lap the second I sat down and always tried to sleep with me. I taught her some naughty habits while I lived there. Habits like, it's okay to sleep under the covers and that it's okay to sleep up by people's faces. :)

Last but not least: I miss very much my nephew, Ethan. His parents too. He used to tackle me every morning to wake me up and I don't think I know a sillier kid. I left just before his 2nd birthday and was so sorry to miss it. He used to hide in the entertainment center, make a hammock out of my legs and a blanket, and yell at me when I stole food off of his tray. They are coming to visit in December and I can't wait to see the little guy again.

As for things I missed about Utah: Mountains. How can you tell which direction you're going without mountains?

Roxberry: Rita's may be nice but if you want the best fruit smoothie the US has to offer then hit Roxberry. How can you pay $4 for a small watered down Jamba Juice when there are delights like Roxberry to be had. If you haven't tried it yet then repent of your ways and get to it.

Movies that don't cost you your first born child: Movies were $12 in MD. Ouch! The 7 weeks I was there I only saw one movie and it was a matinee which was only $8.

Dry air: you saw what I wrote about humidity. I love the dry, cool Utah fall weather.

Friends: Although it was fun to make new friends there is something special about the peeps I already have. Maybe it's just because they have shared so much more life experiences with me or the fact that I've known most of them for 10+ years. I was glad to come home and sit at the party pad again with me peeps.

Family: I miss Ethan like crazy but I do have family a plenty still here in Utah to keep me busy. Nieces and nephews. Early morning exercise and late night discussions. Callie has taken up Ethan's post as wake up caller and tackles me in the mornings.

I loved DC. I did what I went there to do and now I'm happy to be home. There's no place like it.

Arizona

2009-08-20T07:07:00.001-07:00

Well, Maryland is over now and I'm off to continue my pursuit of that flighty temptress, Adventure! My nephew Isaac was born just a few months ago so I made a pit stop in Arizona to hang out with my favorite people in the whole world. My family.

I admit that traveling 5 hours on a plane with a 2 year old isn't the most fun I've had but he did pretty good. As long as we have nice neighbors and Winnie the Pooh he is fairly happy. Once we got to Arizona the first thing I noticed, of course, was the lack of humidity! Glorious, dry western air. There is nothing better even though I'm a little worried about my gills closing up because of under use.

Our first night there we went to visit my brother at work and all of the girls got sushi (except for me). After dinner we all took turns passing baby Isaac around and oooooing over his fat little cheeks. I always forget how small babies start out. I'm used to Ethan.

There is nothing I love more than a good sleepover and so I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the patter of little feet that were suppose to be in bed running up and down the halls and the giggling of 4 year old voices. Dress up and talking late into the night...by the adults and children.

The next day was blessing day and so there was a rush of food preparation and house cleaning. I admit I mostly "supervised" and watched my favorite show: Good Eats. Alton Brown, being supreme in all things cooking, I decided if I watched his show for several hours I could lend my new found knowledge to those doing all of the work. Unfortunately by the time I gleaned all I could from the mad food scientist the work was all done. Oops!

After Isaac was blessed we had a mini birthday party for Ethan who just turned two. He blew out the candles on his cake and we sang loudly for him. I don't think he quite realized what was going on but everyone seemed to be paying him special attention so I didn't hear any complaints from him. Once the kids were in bed the Killer Bunnies commenced. One of my all time favorite games (outdone only by Harry Potter Clue) in a morbid and twisted sort of way. We stayed up until about midnight slaughtering each others bunnies with kitchen whisks, lawn darts and hedge clippers. (We also took a short break to dress me up as a potato head.)

On Sunday we went to church and got packed up to go home. We set out on Monday at about 6:30am and were okay until about the Hoover Dam. Rose has decided that she does NOT like to be in the car...I tried to drown out the crying with my trusty iPod and only had to listen to the sorrow in between songs. She eventually fell asleep and slept all the way until St. George. We stopped there to see Amanda's in-laws and let the kids run loose for a bit. We only stayed for an hour and then the journey continued with Rose crying and laughing in 30 second intervals. It took a total of 15 hours in the car to get home and I was more than happy to be home. Home to the mountains and Utah in the fall. My favorite time of year in this valley.

Now to get back into the real world. Find a job. Find a place to live. Finish training for my marathon. It was wonderful to have a break from the world. Such an amazing opportunity for me to take a step out of myself and evaluate what it is I want from life and where I need to go in order to get it. Drama is always less serious when you are removed from the thick of things. I have a clear direction now and when I have a path it makes getting back into regular life sweeter. On to the next adventure!

Asian Art

2009-08-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Today Linsay, Ethan and I went to the Arthur M. Sackler Asian Art Museum. Maybe it's because I'm half Japanese or maybe it's because I think that Asian art is so much more interesting than European art but either way I had an amazing time. They have collected pieces of art from Korea, Thailand, Japan, China, India, and Russia. I think the Russian weaponry was my favorite part of the exhibit.

They have a blue room with gold peacocks painted on the walls that I could have stayed all day in. The Peacock Room carries all of the rare blue and white china that the Smithsonian has collected. The picture on the right (below) is a hanging sculpture that runs down the center of the museum. On the bottom floor, where the sculture base is, there is a fountain and doors that lead in to the Museaum of African Art.

Ethan spent the whole time watching Winnie the Pooh on my iPod (I carry it everywhere just in case he gets bored) and yelling so he could hear his voice echo off the walls. Luckily he kept the yelling down to a minimum. After the museum we went to a set of gardens next to the building and let Ethan play in the water fountains and chase birds for a bit as his reward for putting up with us and all of the boring paintings.

There are still so many things to see before I go home so I'll probably go downtown 1 or 2 more times before I head to Arizona.

Berry Picking

2009-08-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

It took us an hour and a half to get there but it was totally worth it. The large farm in Virginia where you pick your own berries was so much fun! David, Linsay, Ethan and I met up with Heather and James (friends of David and Linsay) and their kids and as soon as the kids were out of the car the berrymania started.

Although it was blazing hot the kids immediately began to run through the bushes pulling off anything low enough for them to reach. We had to explain to them that red blackberries are not ripe and shouldn't be picked so only to grab the black ones. Also, raspberries should be red not white. :) They were so adorable running around the shore trying to swat at bugs and sneaking berries out of the buckets. I first noticed something strange about 30 minutes into the trip. No matter how many berries I put into the bucket, it always stayed empty. The red stain around Ethan's mouth was all the evidence I needed. We explained to him that we were only there to pick berries and we could eat them later and after that he only snitched a few. I always new when he had gotten a berry because he would shout out his favorite word. "YUMMO!" Ethan followed along behind holding the bucket for the adults to put the berries in saying, "Bee!" everytime we passed a flower. They have mutant bees the size of quarters swarming the bushes but of course they're just after pollin so we left each other alone.

We spent several hours in the sun picking berries and making sure the kids didn't fall in the water or get stung by bees. I've never been to such a beautiful farm before and although it would be desperately hard work I've always wanted to live on a farm. Being among the berry bushes just set that idea into cement. After we were exhausted from chasing around and the heat we ended up with about 2 lbs of raspberries and the same amount of blackberries. I slept in the car almost the whole way home.

Now I have homemade jam and ice cream to look forward to before I head home to Utah.

Victory!!!

2009-07-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

I just wanted everyone to know I did it! I caught the toad all by myself!!! We kept him only long enough for Ethan to see him and for us to take a picture and then we let him go.

Six Flags

2009-07-25T16:52:00.001-07:00

We spent the whole day at Six Flags. We hit the roller coasters first which turned out to be a good thing because all of the crowds stayed in the water park during the day because of the heat. We ran as fast as we could to the biggest roller coaster in the park but got sidetracked because Ethan saw the train.

After a painfully slow train ride (Ethan liked it) we jumped onto the Ride of Steel. The Superman drop. :) 200 foot drop and speeds that reach 75mph. (pictured on the left) I've never been on a ride like that. I love roller coasters but that was insane. I could barely walk when we got off. We hit The Joker next which was low key but still a lot of fun and then we took Ethan over to the kiddy area where there were rides a plenty for two year olds.

He went on a Roadrunner ride which turned into the highlight of the trip. It's a small roller coaster and has no big drops or high speeds but the look of terror on his face was hilarious as the ride started. (pictured on the right you can see David and the top of Ethan's little head. The third seat back) David kept his hand on Ethan the whole ride to make him feel more secure but he had never experienced anything like that before. At the end Ethan said, "Whoa!" When David asked if he liked it he answered yes but when David asked if he wanted to do it again he said no. :)

Around 3pm we headed over to the water park to cool off. (pictured below is Ethan playing in the water and my legs in the background) I spent the next few hours catching Ethan at the bottom of the water slide and watching him splash water in his face. I loved just sitting in the water and doing nothing after so much running around. Just to end the day on a good note David and I ran over to the last big roller coaster in the park called the Mind Eraser. It's one where your feet dangle and the wind gets knocked out of you because you'er going around in such tight circles.

Because everyone was at the water park the longest we waited for any ride was about 10 minutes. Now that we're home (Just in time too. Rain.) we're making homemaid funnel cakes and reminising about the strangled look on our faces during the Superman ride.

Toads, toddlers, and botanic gardens

2009-07-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

That's right! We have toads here in our Maryland yard! I went to take the recycling to the curb and almost stepped on a toad. I ran inside and grabbed Lins so she could see the creepy little guy. Linsay and I snapped a picture but by the time we decided to catch one they had disappeared. We searched through the bushes with flashlights and sticks but came up dry. I'm going to go out searching every night until I find one...just not in the backyard. I'm still too afraid of getting a tick. I only want to keep it long enough to show Ethan and then I can set it free. :)

The Botanic Garden
This morning we headed out for the Botanic Gardens and having only looked at a rough map got very lost. We ended up near the water front and had to walk about a mile and a half to get back towards the capitol. By the time we got to the gardens it was the heat of the day and things started to drag. I was the one who decided that the gardens would be fun because I thought Ethan would like running around and seeing all of the flowers.

Unfortunately Ethan hated it because he couldn't pick any of the flowers, play in the water, or keep the sunscreen out of his eyes. The heat and humidity eventually got to be unbearable so we headed home. Just in time too. It has been poring rain all day and it's expected to continue until late tomorrow. I love east coast weather. They don't mess around with rain storms here with droplets the size of golf balls and thunder that shakes the roof.

I'll keep you updated on the toad hunt and post pictures when I catch one.

Other Maryland delights: Our neighborhood ice cream man plays Christmas music and drives super fast down the streets. Ethan thinks deer are called "little guys" (For the full story see teammabey.blogspot.com). Fireflies are totally gross in the daylight. Metro stations make it impossible for people with strollers to get around.

Purpose and Meaning

2009-07-19T20:34:00.001-07:00

Want to find purpose and meaning in your life? Follow my advice: It doesn't matter what you believe as long as you believe it.

Sidewalk chalk, sad sheep, and single's ward

2009-07-19T20:05:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Fireworks, corn on the cob, and swimming pools. Ethan loves to play in the water and tries his best to splash me but usually ends up just throwing the water in his face. Some gardening has started and the misquitos are out.

About a week and a half ago Linsay and I took Ethan outside to use his sidewalk chalk. While Ethan scribbled I promply decided that grown ups need play time too and took to drawing a sheep. Linsay immediately joined in and drew a lightning bolt. I asked if the bolt was in honor of the approaching Harry Potter film. She replied,"No. Your sheep is about to be struck."

She thought she was hilarious. I finished my sheep with a sad face because I figured being hit by lightning probably wasn't very fun.

Ethan was so cute with his corn on the cob. I'm afraid that I've been spoiled with Utah corn from the Harward Farms stands and I wasn't terribly impressed with the farmer's market corn here in DC. The only corn I've tasted that is better than the Harward Farms was in Kirksville, Missouri when Larissa and Jeff lived there. Still DC corn is better than no corn at all. For what is summer without butter on your chin and a nibblet wedged between your front teeth?

I've heard several complaints about how dry the heat is this summer in DC but I love it. I can handle the dry heat. It's the combination if humidity and heat that drags me down but so far while I've been here I've only had one day that was particularly sticky.

Summer is always fun but I can't wait to come home to Utah in the fall.

Something I've noticed about my east coast ward is they seem to be much friendlier than Utah wards. My first week in church was at my sister's family ward and by the time the block was over about a dozen people had introduced themselves and tracked us down to say hello. In my single's ward I shook hands with just about everyone in the ward (about 50 people), had an invite to go to the beach on Saturday with a group of girls, asked to played volleyball on Monday and had 3 guys ask for my phone number by the time the "linger longer" was over. I definitely love this area of DC and the ward that goes with it. I guess there are perks to being the freshest meat in the market. :)

Curse the Lybians!

2009-07-17T08:31:00.000-07:00

How could our world have become so obsessed with making money?

Everywhere I go I hear people talking about how they can make the most amount of money possible with the least amount of work on their part. People are obsessed with getting rich quick and no one seems to realize that you can be perfectly happy without piles of money to roll around in and that the rewards are sweeter to reap when you know that you worked you butt off and deserve them.

Money. I know that, thanks to the Lybians (they invented the concept of money), we can't do without it. I understand that people have to survive. We buy food, gas, health care, clothing, houses, cars, cell phones, education, and the occasional vacation. Undoubtedly life would be a struggle without enough money to get by but then I know of so many people who have nothing and still find happiness in families and friends.

I'm not saying that I wouldn't mind not working for the rest of my life because I had just come into a lot of money but honestly I believe that if you want something then you work your butt off and sacrifice and that is when the rewards come. I think it is a good thing to have to work hard in order to get to the pay off. Honestly, I think that people have forgotten how to work hard or perhaps their parents never taught them a good work ethic in the first place.

And honestly everyone with half a brain knows that while money may bring more comfort to your life, it doesn't bring happiness. The things that bring true happiness take work. Family, true friends, purpose. None of those things can be bought. My money role model is the father of a close friend of mine. Mr. Ashby has extensive education and could have qualified for any pharmacy in the U.S. but what does he do? He sells guitars and DJs at dances. It is enough money to support his family and his missionary but more importantly it is a job he loves, works hard at and gives him plenty of time with his family.

Look at all of the movie and rock stars. Do you honestly think they are happy? Some are. But not because of the money. Because they have families to come home to. They walk off the set and have people who can't wait for them to come home. Some just think they are happy and I feel sorry for them. Because if their supply of money was ever interrupted they would have a sad awakening. They would realize how very alone they really are. They would see that all of their "friends" that are now gone were only there for the money. And that wife that was stunningly beautiful has left for someone else who still had a bundle in the bank.

Family. Friends. Purpose. Find the true and loyal ones and hold on to those people. That is happiness. Let me say it again: Money will not make you happy. Why focus all of your energy on schemes that rarely work and won't bring you joy?

I've been incredibly blessed to have an amazing family and close friends who care about me and wonder how I'm doing. That's what it's about. Get out of the world, people and into a home. Stop putting forth the minimum amount of effort and try working.

Maryland Mayhem

2009-07-14T18:21:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I've made a blog post because we didn't have internet here in MD until now so let me catch you up on what's been going on here.

I've visited the National Zoo and thought the Panda bears were sooooo cute. My favorite. Ethan had a great time in the bird house and then we had to leave for Ethan's nap so we didn't see the big cats or the monkeys. Next time.

The 4th of July celebrations started with a parade full of liberal ideals and even a float that said, "Arrest Bush!" (pictured below). We had a BBQ with David's family and then headed downtown to see the fireworks. Ethan hasn't stopped speaking of fireworks since then. We sat right in front of the Washington Monument and had an amazing view of the show.

Today we went to the Aquarium. My favorite part was the dolphin show and the shark exhibit.

Other than that life had been fairly calm. The house is almost set up and we even bought paint to cover up the florescent blue shutters. I'm starting to get a feel for the streets and the metro and now that I'm all settled in I shall begin my explore of the city. Not much to blog about today but stay tuned for the amazing explorer journal of Elyse the Magnificent as she ventures forth into the great capitol of the U.S.

The cruise and the move

2009-06-26T09:18:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's been a long time since I've blogged but I honestly haven't had time. These past 3 weeks have been crazy! First of all my family went on a cruise to celebrate David's graduation from medical school. Congrats, Dave!

The first day we went to Disney World's Magic Kingdom. It opened at 8am so Linsay and I set our alarms and got into the park right as it opened. Those who wanted to sleep in (Callie, Wendy and David) met up with us at about 10:30am. We did all the classic rides: Splash Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and of course Pirates of the Caribbean but Space Mountain was closed until winter. Sad.

The second day David's family met up with us and we all went to Epcot. I must admit I loved Magic Kingdom more than Epcot. It was just okay as far as things to do. I think it's great if you like shopping all day long. I don't.

On Saturday the 13th we boarded the Carnival Glory and got all settled into our cabins. Callie, Wendy and I shared a cabin on the inside of the ship and Linsay and David had a balcony cabin right across the hall. Mary, Brent (David's parents), Lauren (David's cousin), and Cassie (David's sister) we all in rooms next to us as well.

Sunday was a full day at sea so I spent most of my time on deck looking at the ocean. I absolutely love the feeling of solitude you get when you can't see anything on all sides except water. I unfortunately fell asleep on deck and got sunburned to death. I had blisters all over my shoulders and legs. Ewwww...

On Monday we docked at Grand Turk. The whole island was hit by a hurricane not to long ago so the only thing to do there is play on the beach. It was a short day as well. We only docked from 8am to 2pm.

On Tuesday we hit Jamaica which was by far my favorite place to go. We hiked up (not up to... up) a waterfall, went ocean kayaking, and rode a chair lift up to Mystic Mountain.

Wednesday was Grand Cayman Island. We swam with stingrays and snorkelled a bit on a reef and then spent the rest of the day shopping. And of course, we hit the Hard Rock Cafe.

The last two days were at sea. I spent a lot of time on Linsay and Dave's balcony watching the water. A pod of dolphins swam next to the boat for a while and one night we had some lightning. That was the best part of the whole trip. When the lightning touches the water it lights up everything below the surface. It was night so I could see everything in the water hundreds of feet down. Amazing!

The last day in Florida we debarked and went to the Kennedy Space Center. That was pretty scha-weet and I bought myself a Star Trek t-shirt. It was so hot and humid but I guess it's good practice for Maryland.

Total count for the cruise:
Number of Churro's eaten: 2
Number of soft serve ice cream cones eaten: 7
Number of boys who flirted outrageously with me: 5

Which brings me to the move.

Linsay and I left on Monday the 22nd at about 7am and headed to Maryland. We took our time getting here and so only went as far as Omaha, NE our first day. The second day we went as far as South Bend, Indiana where my sister lives. We slept there and then spent the whole next day hanging out with Larissa and Beck. We went to the beach on Lake Michigan and then shopped the outlets. Beck took so time before he warmed up to me and Linsay but by the end of the second day we were BFFs. Thanks, Lars for letting us stay!

Yesterday we made it to our new home: Hyattsville, Maryland. It's not too humid yet but it's only June. I can't wait for July and August. We are still getting settled and we have a lot of work ahead of us. My room is totally set up but pretty much the whole rest of the house is in boxes. I'm excited to get to know the new area and see all of the museums and monuments. We are about 20 driving minutes away from downtown Washington DC so I have plenty of things to do. I love this area and my new home. Below are some more pictures from the past few weeks.

All children grow up....except one...

2009-05-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

"I don't know if you have ever seen a map of a person's mind. Doctors sometimes draw maps of other parts of you, and your own map can be intensely interesting, but catch them trying to draw a map of a child's mind, which is not only confused, but keeps going round all the time. Those are the borders of Neverland.

Of course the Neverlands vary a good deal from child to child. Of all the delectable islands the Neverland is the snuggest and most compact; not large and sprawly, you know, with tedious distances between one adventure and another, but nicely crammed."

Sir James Matthew Barrie, "Peter Pan"

I often think how wonderful it would be to wake up one day and find myself in Neverland. Where there are no grown up worries and adventures around every corner. "For what troubles a grown up will never trouble a child." But then I remember the tragic figure who resides in the Neverlands, Peter Pan. When I was a child I used to envy Peter and his eternal youth but as I have grown I feel sorry for him.

"Peter Pan will have countless joys which other children will never know but he was looking in on the one joy that he would be forever barred." No family. No feelings. No downs and therefore no ups. At least not the kind of ups that change a person and bring meaning to your life. Ignorance is bliss? I don't believe so. For when we have tasted the bitter pain of failure, defeat, death, and heartbreak then how much sweeter is the fruit of success, victory, life and love? The tragedy of Peter Pan is that he cannot love.

We, as adults, truly have the best of both worlds because we can still find that magic and the adventure of the Neverlands and feel the thrills of life. But we can sample them with the people that we love. The friends, family and lovers that lift us up and give us that little bit of pixie dust required to fly. As long as we don't get so caught up in all work and no play and really focus on the things that matter in life then we are in the Neverlands.

Why do people think, "As soon as I have this then I'll be happy." or "As soon as this event takes place then I'll be happy." If we are focused on our families and our loved ones then you will be happy right now. And, yes there are trials and hard times but those moments when the world is right and you are perfectly happy don't have to be few and far between. When we really focus on the things that matter in life then we are in the Neverlands.

The borders of Neverland are the dreams and imagination that we all carry with us and if we keep those alive then we are not Peter Pan or Captain Hook but we are Mrs. Darling. When ever I find myself wishing I were in the Neverlands then I stop, look around and count my blessings. Then I realize that the place I would rather be more than anything else in the world is the place I'm in. I don't envy Peter Pan or anyone else for the life I have is truly blessed and if you take a moment to look around then I think you'll realize that your's is too.

It's okay to have problems and troubles. It's okay to have those bad days as long as you don't let those unhappy thoughts keep you down. It's okay to grow up. When we do, we give up some of the things we may want and dream about but we give them up for something that will bring us greater happiness by far. Family. Love. Friendship. All children grow up...except one.

Martha Proctor

2009-05-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the 90th birthday party for my Aunt Martha Proctor.

Born into a family of 6: Bill, Keith, Martha, Donna, Reed, and Norman. Now only she and my grandpa, Reed are left. (That's them on the left.)

Married to her sweetheart, Paul Proctor, in 1945. Sealed in the Salt Lake Temple by David O. McKay. Mother of 4 boys. Paul, Lane, Kirk, and Scot. Grandmother and Aunt to all. I can't think of anyone who has a bigger heart than my Aunt Martha. She adopts everyone she meets into her family and she is in the "people business". She takes an honest interest in everyone's lives and is always ready with advice when you ask for it. She never forgets your name and always remembers what was going on in your life the last time she saw you.

She has served with more energy and more heart any anyone I know, and although she is 90 her mind is still razor sharp. It was so wonderful to sit together with family and honor her. Hearing her stories and her perspective on life. 9 decades of learning and loving. The party was held in Park City with good food and family. What else is needed in life to make a person happy? Her 3 sons (Kirk has passed away), gave tribute to her and then she spoke about how she and her husband Paul met. So many people showed up to show their support and thank her for the love she has given.

Every 3 weeks she and her second husband Royce come up to American Fork to have Family Home Evening with me and my grandpa. What a wonderful time it's been to get to know her better and feel her energy and example. She knows the answer to every one of my questions about life and how to be happy. There are very few people I trust as much as my Aunt Martha. I love you Aunt Martha!
The picture above is my mom and her cousin Scot Proctor. He and his family live in Fairfax, VA and so it's rare that I get to see him, Maurine and his kids. He gave me a huge hug after dinner and told me that he can't wait for me to move to DC. We'll only be about 30 minutes away from each other then and it will be a 24/7 Proctor party. :)

Zachary Quinto

2009-05-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is probably a lame blog post but I fully acknowledge my nerdiness and I'm okay with it. :)

Actors used to have talent. What happens when the actors that we love so well grow old and retire? Who will take their place? Well now a days all you have to have in order to be an "actor" is a pretty face. What about talent? Where are the actors with a real gift? I have two words for you: Zachary Quinto.

That is all. His role as Sylar in Heroes was my first exposure to the wonder that is Zachary. Never have I seen a creepier villain. A villain with depth and emotion. My awe of Mr. Quinto was deepened by the film Star Trek. Such a good movie and overall the entire cast delivered a great performance but my favorite character was Spock.

Not only does Zachary Qunito look like Leonard Nimoy but he also can act the part. Super cute, amazing acting.
Need I say more?

Happy Birthday!

2009-05-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

This has been a busy week! On Saturday I had some of my peeps (Cory, Alex, Nicole, Mike, Linsay, David, Ethan, James, Rachel, Callie and my mom) come over to celebrate my birthday. We went to the zoo (which ended up being insanely busy) and then had a BBQ at my mom's place.

On Sunday we had the family over for mother's day and I got to talk to Nick! Sad to think that I won't get to talk to him again until he gets home but at least I know that he'll be home for Christmas. He called on a member's cell phone so I only got about 15 minutes to chat with him but that's better than nothing, right?

On Monday (I had Monday and Tuesday off from work) I came to the conclusion that I would make a very good "stay at home" mom. :) I cleaned the house, went grocery shopping, bought a book I needed, went out to lunch and did the laundry. Okay... I may not be good at it but it was so nice not going to work. ;)

On Tuesday I mowed the lawn at my grandpa's house and realized that having work off isn't as fun when no one else has work off. Luckily I got a call from my friend, Shaun. He made me a masterpiece of a birthday book and gave me a few hours of quality hang out time.

After my family got home from their various places of work my mom took me to dinner and then to a movie. Star Trek. SOOOO GOOD! I feel slightly nerdy admitting how much I really liked it but it was the best movie I've seen since V for Vendetta. After the movie we did the Kanno present parade which is my mom's way of not wrapping presents. ;) I got a new skirt, a new purse and one of my favorite books, Coraline by Neil Gaiman.

So overall, a really good birthday... and I like how it turned into a 5 day event. :) Happy birthday to me and Nick!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

I know that many will be making the same claim as I on this day but I honestly think I have the best mother in the whole world!

My parents were divorced when I was about 2 years old and my mother raised all 8 children by herself. She had little more than a high school education and eight little mouths to worry about. She went to school a little at a time when Nick and I reached pre-school age and studied hard while doing laundry, cooking, attending school events, dance concerts and working. After 5 hard years she received her nursing degree and got a job at American Fork Hospital in Labor and Delivery.

She taught us hard work and was a parent first and a friend second. She taught us that sometimes you have to do things that you hate or don't want to do (weeding the garden, cleaning the house, etc.) She new how to dicipline us so by the time we hit Jr. High she rarely had to worry about us. And she raised her children to have solid testimonies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She never faltered and always did her best and has been a perfect expamle of courage, faith, hope and charity.

She worked from 6pm to 6am so she could be home with us during the day. She never missed a show that I was in (that's 13 musicals, ballroom competitions and Shakespeare competitions in Cedar City) and I grew to love the sound of her camera clicking away in the third row. Many times she picked me up at a friend's house late at night even though I knew that it was her one night off and her one chance to sleep normal people hours.

She went on every choir and drama tour (San Francisco, Washington DC, Aneheim, and New York) as a chaperone and everyone of my friends prayed that they would be put under her charge. Known as "Mamma Kanno" to all of my friends she watched over and helped raise them as if they were her own. Offering advice and counsel to those of my friends who had no support at home. She allowed us to build forts in the furniture, stay up all night talking and let all of my friends crash on the couches when we stayed up way too late.

She has watched us rock climb in Moab (and almost die several times), play Pooh sticks up the canyon and has heard enough high school drama to last a lifetime.

She taught me the words to John Denver, The Carpenters, and The Beatles' songs through road trip after road trip. She travels all over the country to deliver her grandchildren and help her children in the first weeks of new parenting. She has driven more miles and spent more time as her children have spread out over the country.

The thing that I love most about my mom though, is her accepting nature. I always have know that I can tell my mom anything. She never judges me or my decisions even if she is occasionally disappointed by them. She knows exactly when to give advice and when to stay silent. She has never been one of those control freak moms that make their children's lives miserable. She taught us correct living, hard work and courage and then sent us out to make our own mistakes. She has never tried to close the acorn and stop the oak from growing. And the love in her eyes never falters as she looks on her children's mistakes. She sees only her child and loves. No matter what she loves me. The perfect mother to me and all of those she comes in contact with. My friends, ward members, and coworkers all love her and learn from her example. Everything that I am today is because of her (um...I hope that's a compliment).

Mom, I love you with all of my heart! I want nothing more than to be the kind of woman that you are. Thank you for everything you have done for me and everything you continue to do. You will always be my best friend. You are someone I can laugh with and talk to and love. You are truly the best person I know. I love you!

When fear knocks at your door let faith answer.

2009-05-03T12:18:00.000-07:00

I cannot understand why it is that so many people let fear rule over their lives! I count myself in this thought. For so long I have made decisions based on what others will think or probability of success. Failure or judgement are not in control of my life any longer!

The only person whose opinion I care about is the Lord. Easier said than done, I know. It is a conscious choice though, made every second of every day. I will not doubt and I will not acknowledge fear. To acknowledge fear is to let it get it's foot in the door and once you give fear an opening it can come down on you and consume your light. It will shut out your glory and cloud your vision. Choose to see upwards and choose to believe.

I believe in myself and nothing else matters.

I was wondering the other day why people don't practice more "radical honesty". Why do people hold back what they feel or think? Because they are afraid of rejection? Because they are happy with the way things are and don't want them to change? That isn't to say that we should be tactless and just say whatever we want whenever we want but so many times I think we hold back on what needs to be said because we have let fear get the best of us.

Now, don't get me wrong, there might be pain. The reason fear is such a powerful master is because there will be times of rejection and loss. Picking yourself back up from a fall can be difficult and may take time but how much stronger will you be if you put yourself out there and take risks and get right back up when fear knocks you down.

There are people who love you and support you. The Lord, friends, family. You are not alone and so why should you fear. If you are doing what the Lord has asked and if you truly believe in yourself fear will never be able to hold on to you. This week be brave and tell someone how much you love them or introduce yourself to a neighbor you don't know. Serve a coworker or apologize for an old hurt. Be brave. Hold your head up and brake the chains of fear.

Stranger than Fiction

2009-04-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

"When we lose ourselves in fear and despair, in routine and constancy, in hopelessness and tragedy, we can thank God for Bavarian sugar cookies. And, fortunately, when there aren't any cookies, we can still find reassurance in a familiar hand on our skin, or a kind and loving gesture, or subtle encouragement, or a loving embrace, or an offer of comfort, not to mention hospital gurneys and nose plugs, an uneaten Danish, soft-spoken secrets, and Fender Stratocasters, and maybe the occasional piece of fiction. And we must remember that all these things, the nuances, the anomalies, the subtleties, which we assume only accessorize our days, are effective for a much larger and nobler cause. They are here to save our lives. I know the idea seems strange, but I also know that it just so happens to be true." -Emma Thompson, "Stranger than Fiction"

I love moments. The strange and unusual moments that make my day different. This morning just as I closed my door a butterfly flew into my car. I spent the next 15 minutes trying to get it out of my car without damaging it. It got harder and harder to get it out of the car as the laughing made my hands weaker and weaker.

Moments are a matter of perspective. Every moment can be a moment if we choose to see it that way. As you go about your everyday routine take a moment to have a moment. Look around and see what is new and beautiful. Wonder at the ordinary and marvel at the simple. I know that as an adult it is difficult to look at things with the wonder of a child. We've seen and experienced too much but it is possible to find joy in the simple things.

Life really is stranger than fiction but only if we are careful not to get caught in the rut of routine. Just because you have the same job day after day that doesn't mean that your life has to be boring or ordinary. Just because you do the laundry or go to school everyday that doesn't mean that your life is uneventful. Make moments for yourself.

Appreciate the moments that come. A hug from a friend. The smile from a co-worker. The Bavarian sugar cookies. Be a moment for someone else and you will find that that moment has become a moment for you too.

The Zombie Survival Guide

2009-04-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

It has come to my attention that a shocking number of people are unprepared for the zombie uprising that is on it's way. Here are some tips on how to keep safe from the infection that will reanimate the dead...

From The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks

1. Organize before they rise!

2. They feel no fear, why should you?

3. Use your head, cut off theirs.

4. Blades don't need reloading.

5. The best defense is tight clothes and short hair. They have less to grab on to then.

6. Get up the staircase and then destroy it.

7. Get out of the car and get on to a bike.

8. Keep moving. Keep low. Keep quiet. Keep alert.

9. No place is safe, just safer.

10. The zombie may be gone but the threat lives on...

Now you are prepared for the zombie uprising. Just a word of warning: I have no loyalties. If you travel with me, I'll use you as bait for the zombies while I escape. :)

"Sometimes people leave you halfway through the wood...

2009-04-11T17:52:00.000-07:00

...others may deceive you. You decide what's good. You decide alone but no one is alone. Mother isn't here now. Who knows what she'd say? Nothing's quite so clear now. Feel you've lost your way? You are not alone! Believe me! No one is alone. You move just a finger; say the slightest word. Something's bound to linger. Be heard. No one acts alone. Careful! No one is alone.

People make mistakes. Fathers. Mothers. People make mistakes. Holding to their own, thinking they're alone. Honor their mistake. Fight for their mistakes. One another's terrible mistakes. Witches can be right. Giants can be good. You decide what's right. You decide what's good. Just remember: someone is on your side. Someone else is not. While we're seeing our side maybe we forgot. They are not alone. No one is alone.

Hard to see the light now. Just don't let it go. Things will come out right now. We can make it so. Someone is on your side. No one is alone!"

-Stephen Sondheim "Into the Woods"

There are about 5 billion people on the planet. Circling each others bubbles but rarely looking up. So self absorbed that they forget to look around and reach out their hand to those who cross their path. Unfortunately I am all too often included in this statement.

So many times I've thought, "Why isn't anyone here to help me?" instead of thinking, "Who can I help today?" Take a moment to look around you and really see others. Look into their eyes and discover hidden pains. People are children deep down inside. Lost and afraid. Calling for help, praying that someone will hear. When we take the time to put our arms around them then our own pains and fears will crumble away.

If you are one of the people who so desperately need someone to save you then consider this: What have you done for someone else lately?
You are not alone!
When fear knocks at your door let faith answer.
Find one thing to smile about every day. You never know who will see your smile and be touched by your light.

What if you are one of those people who loses themselves in service of others but still can't dispel old hurt? Then make sure that you are letting others in. So many people love you and want to serve but you have to let them in. Trust. Don't lose faith in people. Or in love.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

Every year my family gets together and colors Easter eggs. No matter how old I get I never get sick of it. This year we had all sorts of creativity running around. My personal favorite is Callie's series, "Where The Wild Things Are".

The first group has my name egg. (It goes inside your basket), Gir, a bit of Japanese pride, hearts and the Irkin Empire flag.

The second group is Nick's name egg, Tim Burton egg and some typical Easter eggs.

The third group is my bee, Marlyn, Dori, and V for Vendetta.

Happy Easter everyone!

The Provo City Half Marathon

2009-04-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Today I ran the Provo City Half Marathon. Probably the hardest thing I've ever done. Here is the harrowing tale and some pictures to go along with it.

We woke up at 6:30am and ate some runner's breakfast. Toast and peanut butter. We drank some nasty energy/vitamin stuff that made me gag and dry heave. I have very sensitive gag reflexes in the morning.

7am out the door praying that the snow would stop.

7:30am. Arrived at the starting line and started to warm up. The starting line was 100 South and University Ave. We mostly stretched out to keep from freezing to death before the race.

8am. The gun was fired and we were off. Up over the viaduct and around the mall. Down around some of the surrounding neighborhoods until mile 3. At mile 3 my mom pulled out our water and her camera. She was great to come to 4 stops and take pictures for us.

The first 7 miles were through the city and neighborhoods and when we hit mile 8 we were on the Provo trail that runs by the river. We stayed on the trail unitl about mile 11 and then we were back into the city.

At mile 9 Linsay and I seperated. She was having some hip pains and cramping and needed to go at a slower pace so I went on ahead of her. She ended up only being about 7 minutes behind me when I crossed the finish line though so she kept running despite her discomfort.

By mile 11 I though I was going to die and when I came around the corner to mile 13 and saw the finish line I almost cried because I was so happy. I did it! I worked and trained for 6 months to run the race and I did it in 2 hours and 40 minutes.

There is nothing more satifying than knowing that I accomplished something that I thought was impossible for me to do 6 months ago. We had a good time and now.... on to the full marathon!

Special thanks to my mom for stopping at 4 stations to take pictures, cheer us on, and give us water.

Inkspell

2009-04-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

"You cannot fully read a book without being alone. But through this very solitude you become intimately involved with people whom you might never have met otherwise, either because they have been dead for centuries or because they spoke languages you cannot understand. And nonetheless, they have become your closest friends, your wisest advisors, the wizards the hypnotize you, the lovers you have always dreamed of."

Antonio Munoz Molinas, "The Power of the Pen"

There is something magical hidden between the lines of books. Something that whispers your name and pulls you deep inside the story. Every word serves as a carriage that takes you far away from all thing ordinary and plants you in places you've only seen in your dreams.

Books have always been my sanctuary when I was alone or afraid. Many times I've flown to Neverland, sat in the Gryffindor common room, and stepped through the wardrobe to Narnia. My love of books grew from reading when I was alone or afraid and turned into a craving for the spell that they cast. Whenever I have a spare moment I use it to throw my spirit into a new adventure. Run through unexplored lands, meet people whose lives are so unlike my own, taste the foreign air, and thrust out my chin defiantly when the villian stands before me.

I recently read a book called Inkspell, part of a pretty good series, but it was the title that I loved so much. The idea that ink can cast a spell over the reader and make you forget for a while where you came from and those you left behind. I know that feeling. The magic is very real to me. Many times I've been pulled out of a book by the voice of a family member, leaving me feeling disoriented and wondering how I came to be at my house. Have you felt that before?

Sadly, with all of the new media avaliable to the public, books have become lonely beings. They sit on the shelves gathering dust, the enchantments forgotten. The characters trapped behind the covers and their stories untold. When was the last time you read a book for strictly for enjoyment? I hope you answer is, "I'm reading one right now!"

Let the ink cover you. Let it free your mind and take you on amazing adventures. Escape into the pages.

Welcome Home!

2009-03-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

I remember thinking that 2 years was FOREVER! Well strangely enough time keeps ticking away and days turn into months which turn into years.

Welcome home Cory and Alex! The first of the my brothers to come home.

When I was in high school I was dubbed "one of the guys" by my peeps and it stayed that way. I had a few girl friends but for the most part I had a group of boys that were like my brother's and watched over me, making sure that the guys I dated were worthy and reminding me to always be better.

The problem with having mostly guy friends is that they all left at once for their missions and I was mostly alone. I did make a few new friends while they were gone but no one can take their place in my heart and now some of them are starting to return from their service.

Cory was the first and about a month later Alex joined us. I have only 9 more months until Nick, my real brother (twin), gets home... for some reason his mission seems to be taking an extra long time. :)

Now that some of the boys are returning the nights of movies, games, food, laughter and not going to bed until incredibly late are back in full force.

The Book Garden

2009-03-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

I LOVE used book stores. Where else can you find 10 childhood classics in leather bound, hard back for $3.50 a piece? I'm like a fat kid in a candy store!

There is a small store in Bountiful called The Book Garden where I spend hours on the weekends. The ladies who run the store are so nice and always remember me and my sisters when we go in to shop.

Last visit I bought a book about the Beatles, Heidi, Treasure Island, Wind in the Willows, Alice in Wonderland, Charlotte's Webb, Stuart Little, A Little Princess, Robin Hood, The Swiss Family Robinson, and many others.

I'm starting a collection of children's books for when I have kids of my own, plus who doesn't love reading the books that remind them of childhood?

The first time I was there I found the Complete works of Winnie the Pooh with all of the classic illustrations as well as The Jungle Books which I was very excited to read. I've only ever read two or three of the stories and have always wanted to get the complete collection.

The whole place smells like old pages and leather spines. The shelves are filled with magical stories that I loved my whole life and books I haven't seen since I was a child. They also carry old books like the 2nd edition Peter Pan I wanted so badly. It was several thousand dollars so I held myself back.

The only thing I don't love about going to that store is that I have to beat my sisters off of the books I want. There was a debate about who would take home the complete collection of the Havard Classics hardcover for only $100. Linsay was the winner. :)

If you get the chance, go in and see what you can find. Shoppers beware, though. The store and it's contents are highly addictive.

"Some books are meant to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested;" -Francis Bacon

A waste?

2009-03-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Is love a waste if it's not appreciated or reciprocated?

I occasionally get discouraged when faced with the same brick walls over and over and over again. Who wouldn't? Why waste your heart on those who don't appreciate how you feel or those who don't feel the same way? Because love is still love.

Think of the greatest act of love in the whole history of the world. Suffered for all mankind in a garden by the Son. Was that a waste just because there are those who don't appreciate it? Of course not.

Is a mother always appreciated by her children? No but she loves them unconditionally and learns to savor the moments when appreciation is shown.

Love is still love and is never a waste. Even when those we love don't love us back, or in the way that we would wish them to. If we steel our hearts away then eventually the heart will forget what kindness tastes like and the warmth that compassion brings.

The cuts and bruises that come from love only serve to keep our hearts tender and teach us to love even greater the next time around. If you let them...

Open your heart. Without reservation. Without fear. Don't let pass burns fester and grow. Air out the wound and let it heal. Then start over and fall in love again. There is somebody for everybody...

If you ain't where you are, you're no place...

2009-03-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

I was sitting at my desk thinking about how much I would love to be any where other than at my desk and it occurred to me that I was being ungrateful.

This life is the only one we have and so why not take every moment to find the beauty that it offers even if your just sitting at your desk. "If you ain't where you are, you're no place."

It occurred to me that I was just making myself miserable thinking about where I wanted to be, what I wish I had, and what I wanted to be doing instead of being grateful for the things I do have.

I am surrounded by family who watches out for me and make me smile. Sisters that I can call for advice and brother's who poke holes in my food and throw things in my water glass. That alone is a reason to be filled with gratitude, not to mention friends who know me better than I know myself and who are always there for me. I may not have the job I want but I'm rich in love and encompassed by beauty and I've decided to appreciate that more.

Life is awe inspiring and there are breath taking moments to be had every hour of everyday. Take time to stop and look around. Notice the small things and you'll be suprised (as I was) at how fast the small things add up until you are filled with wonder at how blessed you really are.

This morning, just before the sun came up, the clouds where tipped in pink like upside-down cupcakes. I saw birds flying around a pond. How can they fly so fast and close together without hitting into one another? The air this morning smelled like Spring and there is something magical about being the only one awake.

At 7am the mountains are a deep royal blue and the snow is a brilliant white. The breeze is just waking up and the moon is on it's way to bed. What a enchanting way to start the day. Stop long enough to notice.

Slow down. Take a deep breath. Look around. Listen.

How to Read Minds

2009-02-28T16:38:00.001-08:00

If you can make it on Wednesday to help out with the filming of this (and would like to learn how to read minds) that would be great. We are meeting at UVU at 7pm in the Liberal Arts building in front of room 127. It won't take long to get the footage needed so if you can take time out of your busy schedule and do me a solid that would be amazing.

See you on the 4th!

Clearing out...

2009-02-24T16:39:00.000-08:00

I've been clearing out my movies and getting ride of some that I don't watch anymore. If anyone is interested in buying Sleepy Hollow or Sweeney Todd let me know. They're $5 a piece.

elysekanno@gmail.com

"I have a Ph.D in horribleness..."

2009-02-23T15:50:00.000-08:00

For those of you not familiar with Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, you are seriously missing out! Go to drhorrible.com and scroll down to where it says "Watch It Right Now" and see what you think. There are 3 Acts and each one is only about 15 minutes. SO FUNNY!

Favorite line: "It's curtains for you, Dr. Horrible! Lacy, gently wafting curtains."

http://drhorrible.com/

President's Day

2009-02-20T09:44:00.000-08:00

In view of the fact that this month holds President's Day, Lincoln's Birthday, and Washington's Birthday here is my favorite monologue from my favorite movie to help you feel patriotic. Enjoy!

"Good evening, London. Allow me first to apologize for this interruption. I do like many of you appreciate the comforts of the everyday routine, the security in the familiar, the tranquility, the repetition. I enjoy them as much as any bloke.

But in the spirit of commemoration whereby those events of the past, usually associated with someone's death or the end of some awful, bloody struggle, are celebrated with a nice holiday. I thought we could mark this November the fifth, a day that is sadly no longer remembered, by taking some time out of our daily lives to sit down and have a little chat.

There are, of course, those who do not want us to speak. I suspect even now orders are being shouted into telephones and men with guns will soon be on there way. Why? Because while the truncheon may be used in lieu of conversation, words will always retain their power.

Words offer the means to meaning, and for those who will listen, the enunciation of truth. And the truth is, there is something terribly wrong with this country, isn't there? Cruelty and injustice. Intolerance and oppression. And where once you had the freedom to object, to think and speak as you saw fit, you now have censors and systems of surveillance coercing your conformity and soliciting your submission.

How did this happen? Who's to blame? Well, certainly there are those who are more responsible than others and they will be held accountable but again, truth be told, if you are looking for the guilty, you need only look into a mirror. I know why you did it.

I know you were afraid. Who wouldn't be? War. Terror. Disease. There were a myriad of problems which conspired to corrupt your reason and rob you of your common sense. Fear got the best of you, and in your panic you turned to the now High Chancellor, Adam Sutler. He promised you order. He promised you peace and all he demanded in return was your silent, obedient consent.

Last night I sought to end that silence. Last night I destroyed the Old Bailey to remind this country of what it has forgotten. More than 400 years ago a great citizen wished to embed the 5th of November forever in our memory. His hope was to remind the world that fairness, justice and freedom are more than words. They are perspectives.

So if you've seen nothing, if the crimes of this government remain unknown to you, I would suggest you allow the 5th of November to pass unmarked. But if you see what I see, if you feel as I feel and if you would seek as I seek, then I ask you to stand beside me one year from tonight outside the gate of Parliament and together we give them a 5th of November that shall never, ever be forgot."

-V (V for Vendetta)

Happy President's Day!

Fear is a friend who's misunderstood...

2009-02-18T12:34:00.001-08:00

I heard this in one of my favorite songs and wondered at the phrase. "Fear is a friend who's misunderstood, but I know the heart of life is good." What a strange idea that fear is a good thing. I have always seen fear as a thief who holds a spirit back and hinders progress.

Why do we experience fear? To learn from the past? Self-preservation? I guess if seen in that light fear could be considered a good thing but only if we make sure it doesn't hold us back. Never let it stop you from the new and unknown.

We cannot go through life without experiencing pain of some kind so why not just get used to the idea and embrace all that life has to offer. Turn and face it head on. Keep running at it even though failure and pain may try to suffocate you.

Never let go of your dreams because of fear. Although the pursuit of your dreams may require regrouping after many crashes and burns we should never give them up. Nor should we ignore the blessings right in front of us because we are so focused on what we want.

I was thinking on this because of a dream I'm currently pursuing. It hasn't been going the way I hoped and I wondered if there comes a point when it's better to let dreams go; to move on and stop hoping. The conclusion is, never. I had to step back and decide on a new approach to the same dream but never giving up.

Dreams are always coming and going. When we catch one that touches our hearts and urges us to try then it's worth holding on to. "Come what may and love it." Without fear.

"Know it won't all go the way it should but I know the heart of life is good."

Happy Birthday, Gromit!

2009-02-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

For those of you not familiar with Wallace and Gromit... shame on you! I grew up watching the three short films and I think that "A Close Shave" is my favorite one. Yesterday was Gromit's birthday so we watched the movies, ate cake and ice cream, and of course... had cheese. Happy Birthday, Gromit!

We had a fairly good turn out including a few people who hadn't be introduced to Wallace and Gromit before. Here are some fun facts about Gromit and keep an eye out for a birthday party in August for Wallace.

Since Gromit has no visible mouth (and possibly also because he's a dog) he cannot express himself with spoken words. However, his facial expressions and body language speak volumes.

He is very sensitive, intelligent, resourceful and skilled at coping with Wallace's hare-brained gadgets. Gromit holds a genuine affection for his master and remains loyal to him, even at his own expense, or when Wallace's contraptions inevitably blow up in his face. Although frequently frustrated by Wallace's antics, he cares deeply for his master.

He likes knitting, reading the newspaper and cooking. His prized possessions include his alarm clock, bone, brush and a framed photo of himself with Wallace.

"It's Not Easy Being Green...

2009-02-12T16:46:00.001-08:00

...spending each day the color of the leaves."

Hair. My way of self expression. An outlet for when I'm restless, upset or discouraged. I've been wanting a change for a while and realized the other day that I have an excess of green clothing. That was all the excuse I needed to dye my hair. It's actually blonde highlights but I have a whole bunch of colored gels that I can put in it to spice things up.

It's funny the way people treat you when you have green in your hair. It's very different than the time I dyed my hair bright pink. When it was pink they looked at me like I was an irresponsible punk but when you're hair is green people avert their eyes like their embarrassed for you.

Maybe they are embarrassed for me, but I love it! Let me know what you think. ;)

Make Work Fun...

2009-02-05T09:38:00.000-08:00

...it's easy!

This week has been pretty crazy helping my sister move into her new house but it's been so much fun. When work is being done in the Kanno household it becomes a time of singing, talking (we usually talk loudly and over each other) and laughter.

I remember being a kid and having to weed the front garden. We were all assigned a section and told not to come back into the house until it was clear of weeds. :)

During those hours in the summertime I learned the harmony to every Beatles song and the words to most of the Carpenter's songs.

This week of moving my sister started with carpet cleaning and dusting, followed closely by painting and then the unpacking. 4 sisters, 1 brother-in-law, 1 mother, 1 grandpa, 1 cousin, 2 nieces and 1 nephew. The paint was soon being thrown at each other with claims of, "My hand slipped!" or "I was just getting you back from the last time!" The fumes filled the air, the laughter increased (due to the fumes, I'm sure), and Bennie and the Jets was sung about 10 times in one night.

During the breaks from working I gave pony rides to my niece, Amelia, discovered I can still do a back walkover, and had a hand stand contest with myself while dinner cooked.

No one can escape doing work but that doesn't mean that it has to be boring. Sing! Play games! Large rooms are excellent for doing cartwheels but be careful that you don't hit anything fragile like vases or children.

There's still a lot of work to do but I'm looking forward to it.

I love you!

2009-01-31T09:07:00.001-08:00

I don't know why but I've always had a hard time saying "I love you". When I love someone I show it as much as I know how to by spending time with them, serving them, laughing with them, confiding in them, listening to them and creating memories with them.

We go sledding or play games. I bring them treats or offer to cook them dinner but sometimes it's not enough to imply the "I love you"s. Occasionally it must be spoken out loud. The utterance of "I love you" can leave no doubt in their minds that you care deeply about their happiness.

But I almost never say, "I love you" unless speaking to a family member.

Perhaps I am afraid. Not a great thing to admit on a blog about believing in yourself and in your dreams but I guess admitting it is the first step to fixing the problem, right?

The more you open yourself up the more vulnerable you are to pain. It is easy to tell my family that I love them because I know that families are forever and I know that there is always more laughter then there is pain. But what about friends? What about a man who touches your heart and leaves a mark? Is it worth it?

With friends I would always answer, "Yes!" You can never have too many friends. People who all care about you and are happy to see you. When traveling, who doesn't want a large group crammed in the car for a 12 hour drive. :) It's always worth it.

As for love? Well, I must admit I'm still very young and have only really been in love once so I know I'm not the expert and I have so much to learn.

The first boy I ever fell in love with (I had dated a few guys before him but never really been in love until then) was continually frustrated with me because I never said the words, "I love you."

Because I felt comfortable with him I had no problem with talking out issues that would arise between us. Because he cared for me I had no problem with letting him know when I had had a bad day or communicating honestly how I was feeling but, though he said the words almost every day my usual response was, "I'm glad you love me."

What does "I love you" really mean? Does it mean, "I love you the best way that I know how to at this point in my life." or does it mean, "I will do everything in my power to make you happy." or is it "You make me want to be better than I am."? Is it all of the above? And how do you keep those feelings from fading away then after years of being married? Is it worth the hurt that comes if things don't work out the way you want them to?

I admit when I started this post I was hoping to get some epiphany and be able to answer my own questions but here I am at the end with nothing but questions still. I know I have an endless supply of determination though and I know that life is for living so I am guessing that it must be worth the hurt because it's such an essential part of our lives and I am going to try harder to say it to those I truly care for.

There is a lesson to be learned from every experience and though I'm young and inexperienced I am certain that love is no exception. Love deeply and come what may, right? I hope so...

To everyone reading this post: I love you! It may take me a while to get in the habit of saying it out loud but I truly love you...

The List

2009-01-30T05:43:00.000-08:00

So here is the list. The things I've always wanted to do. Some of the items are silly and childish but fortunately it's a part of me that I can't shut out. :) Take a look and reflect on your own list. Maybe some things are the same and maybe you will see some ideas of things you would like to add. Just remember that the list is not something to merely be admired; it is the course your life should take.

In no particular order
1. Tango in Argentina. I don't mean in a concert hall but in a small cafe that's tucked away from the crowds. Who doesn't want that, right?

2. Climb a mountain at least 15,000 feet high. Any one will do.

3. In Spain they build giant statues out of paper and on one night they burn them all at once. I would love to see that happen. (This got added to my list just last night.)

4. Learn a foreign language.

5. Get married. This may be the hardest one to fulfill on my list because I need someone who will be a fellow adventurer. Someone who will help me live my list not hinder my progress. Someone who has a list of their own. Most guys (especially in Utah) want to settle down and start a family, not run around the world... it may take a long time to find someone who fits that description. I know it's a tall order.
I want that someone who is the constant. No matter what country I'm in, no matter how the world changes around me; the constant through the new beginnings and the constant despite the pains that will come.

6. Attend Oktoberfest! Now I don't drink but I have always wanted to join in the singing and dancing that goes on during Oktoberfest and due to the fact that everyone is stinking drunk I don't even have to be a good dancer.

7. Attend Karnival. I don't want to show favorites as far as countries go so if I'm going to Oktoberfest I have to go to Karnival!

8. Sail the Nile. From top to bottom in a small two man boat with a close friend or that husband that I may have some time in the future. Go ashore every now and then to see new things and meet new people. I recently learned from a friend how to defeat a crocodile so now I'm set.

9. Have someone kiss me in the rain. I know that it's cheesy but I do have a hopelessly romantic side that creeps out every once in a while. I try to keep it under close watch so that I don't make people with sensitive gag reflexes sick but this is one of the things I want to do before I die.

10. Run a marathon. This one is going on right now. I've been training since October and I'm up to running about 10 miles which isn't bad considering I couldn't even run 1 mile when I started. I run on July 24th (if I'm still in Utah at that point...) and everyone should come down to the finish line to cheer me on or if you start now you can run the race with me and check a marathon off of your list too.

11. Along with the marathon theme I am going to run in a race across a desert or through a jungle. Or perhaps I'll bike across China...

12. Be on a game show. I even downloaded an application for "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader" to see what the audition and interview process is like. Look for me on T.V. :)

13. Audition for a Broadway musical. I don't care if I make it or not but it's always worth a shot plus I could spend the week in New York at Ray's Pizza or the Majestic cafe.

14. Create a great work of art. This may be a movie, a dance number, a song, a sculpture, a painting. I don't know what it's going to be yet but when it happens my soul will be there for the world to examine.

15. "Uncover or build or discover a thing that I can call my celebration."

16. See every ocean. I've only seen the Pacific Ocean with my own eyes. Before I die I want to behold and swim in every single one. Better get going...

17. Learn to ride a motorcycle. I already know how to drive stick now I just need to take that on to a bike. I think it would be much easier to get around if I had a good reliable bike instead of having to resort to public transportation.

18. Visit the San Blas Islands. I've only seen pictures but even the still life takes my breathe away. I want to lie on the beach and build an enormous sand castle that will wash away forever when the tide comes in.

19. Visit at least 10 countries... I figure this will be one of the easiest to accomplish because as I'm checking off everything else on my list I'm sure to be a world traveler.

20. Attend an inauguration. I don't really care that much about politics but I do think it would be fun to stand in the freezing cold Mall and see a new president sworn in. History in the making...

21. Learn to ice climb and climb the Stairway to Heaven. I've heard that it's beautiful up there and I want to see it for myself. There is so much beauty in Utah and as much as I want to travel the world, I'm still grateful to have been raised in such a beautiful state.

22. See a shooting star and make a wish. Can you believe that I've never seen a shooting star! If I live the life I want to and be the person I want to be then I may not have much to wish for when I do see my star.

23. Experience weightlessness. I don't necessarily have to go into space. There are other ways...

24. Run away to a foreign country with little or no planning. It wouldn't be running away if every detail was planned out. It must come from the heart and be driven by the desire to experience life.

25. Find/send a message in a bottle. Just for funsies...

26. Live in China for a period of at least 6 months. This was added to my list after I read a book. I've always been able to keep the wanderlust in check until I was introduced to this book. It taught me that I shouldn't have to keep the wanderlust in check.

27. Fall in love. Hopelessly, and unconditionally. This will come with the husband territory, I'm sure, but I thought I'd add it in seperately. It is possible to fall head over heels from someone and not marry them so it deserves a spot all it's own.

28. Save a life. I don't mean from physical harm or danger.

Some of these dreams are just now at their beginnings and some are well under way. When I die I don't want to say that I have lived my dreams. I will say that I have lived my life. When dreams and reality are one then you are truly alive.

Air out your dreams...

2009-01-29T15:25:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a list hidden away in the corners made up of what they would like to experience before the time comes to pay the ferryman. Most keep the list locked in the drawer and only look at it when their children are asleep.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Did that dream get locked up with the rest when you faced "reality"? Why didn't you become what you wanted to be? Is it because someone told you that responsible adults must go to work in an office and stay in the same rut day after day? Who decided that that is the way to spend your days?
What would happen if one day you decided that the rules made up by our fathers weren't worth following? What if we all made something spectacular of our mortal existence?
This life is all we have to take with us when we depart and so why are so many content with just an occasional peek into the drawer where their dreams lay dormant? Why not bring them out in to the light, air them out and make every dream a reality.
Your dreams are so much closer than you think. All that is required is that you reach out and embrace them. Start small with the short term goals that lie dusty and forgotten and then move up the scale and realize that the life you dreamed about is banging on your door.
I have a list just like yours and I intend to fulfill as many items on that list as I can before my time is up and in doing so I hope to encourage others to break out of their confinements and experience life as it was meant to be experienced. With love, friendship, risk, hurt, adrenaline, speed, beauty, trails, lessons learned, laughter, intensity, heart and peace. Filling my soul with every good thing but never, never with regret.
Grow, stretch, learn; although it may be uncomfortable at first just remember that practice makes perfect. I vow from this moment on that I'm going to live the life that I've always wanted to but never had the courage to before. I will run at every challenge full speed and never turn back. I know it is easier said than done but luckily I have a little help. (Thanks for the push out the door, Shaun!)
I want you to come with me. All of you. Come away to Neverland...whether it's by following my blog or joining in my adventures. Or better still, start an adventure of your own. Live. This is the only life you have and as for me: I intend to put mine to good use.