foggy. mystery. twisty. mister. sis.

I was tagged on Facebook

2012-02-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

A friend tagged me "Congrats Misty"

I was thinking, wow, what did I do?!?!

Clicked the link, and went to a page of someone I did not know to this story:

"Our dog Bobo barked and Toby jumped on our bed and woke my husband up. I was quick slept about 1130 pm between 12 am. It was at about 130 am. My husband got up and check on Misty. So I woke up and knew Misty had her labor. I had to washed my hands and told 5 dogs go out of bedroom to livingroom, give Misty private and quiet. So I sit next to her and her first pup were at 130 am then second pup at 2 am then third pup 230 am then last fourth pup at 3 am. We were waited for her and see if any more pup coming or just it is. I wait till about 330 am then took her four puppies out of cage to box and took Misty out too then I cleaned her wet bed out and fresh clean bed for her and pups then put Misty back in and took her 4 pups back to their mommy. Everything done then I put blankets around fence so dogs won't be bother her and babies in my room. Just about to knocked me out to sleep around 4 am then Toby woke me up about 430 am and I checked on Misty and her puppies to be make sure everything okay then big SURPRISE!!! She has fifth last pup was born at 430 am. So I will clean her bed again when it is sun light more than dark. Did not want wake my husband up, let him sleep. Dogs woke me up for potty. I took 5 dogs out to front yard and I asked Misty, want go outside for potty then she followed me to back door. I stand and watch with Misty. Then she went back to her cage after her potty done. Mother and puppies are doing well. The puppies were born on Friday 17th of Feb today like owl night."

Sometimes that auto tagged name can be a curse. Sometimes my name can be too. (That's the most common thing I hear...."my dog's name is Misty" (or cat or horse)

A Christmas Surprise!

2011-12-18T23:56:00.000-07:00

It includes:

Adventurous Parents

Spontaneous Travels (Couldn't think of a good picture that defined "spontaneous" that wasn't like the rest of my travel pictures)

One-Way Plane Ticket

(Picture Googled)

An Amish Christmas!!!

(The 4 Pictures found from a Google search)

Our last big stop on our Church History Tour: Kirtland, Ohio (As I'm writing this, I remembered I never did finish and post my blog about our spontaneous summer trip to Nauvoo...)

(Both Pictures Googled)

A dream come true: Cross-Country Road Trip!!!

Isn't this a great picture?! (Picture googled)

This is me on an actual road trip.....heading to Canada Summer 2009

Short Utah Roadtrip

Sign says "Welcome to Montana"

Roadtrip to Oregon Feb. 2011

This is Charly's first Roadtrip. We went to Oregon.
(Charly is the Corolla)

Yesterday at the end of school, Mom and Dad stopped in to see me. They said Christmas plans have changed. (The three of us were planning on going to the ranch for a few days.) Well, my Uncle Don and Aunt Cheryl (Mom's oldest sister) are getting a new Volvo. They'd been planning on getting it next year sometime, and my parents were going to buy their Avalon from them. Uncle Don called and said he is getting Cheryl the Volvo for Christmas, and so Mom and Dad need to come get their Avalon asap.

At first, I thought they were telling me that they were just going to go without me. Then I thought better of it. They wouldn't go on a trip without me, would they?! No way! :)

There were a few things we had to work out-

Desi is having Duckie on Monday (Dec. 19). Is now a good time to leave when Duckie is coming?
Cost of traveling during the holidays. Uncle Don said he looked at one-way plane tickets from Delta, and they were going at $500 until after January 4th. That's a lot of money for a one-way plane ticket.
When do we go? Do we go now during Christmas break? Do we try to take off work and go in January? It's really hard for me get days off of work because we get so many vacation days during the year. (One of the best perks of being a teacher is the vacation days! One of the biggest down-sides; vacation is when the government tells you it is.) Mom's co-worker who would cover her has a wedding to get ready for in January. Could she take work off?

I already have a one-way ticket from Long Beach, CA to Utah on January 2 because I'm driving with Amy from Utah to Cali as she goes back to PT school. (This is where the Cross-Country Roadtrip dream comes in, if you're following. Keep reading)

So we talked a little about what our options would be. I looked up tickets as we went out to dinner. I didn't think going after the break would be likely for me. They could go without me, of course, but we had such a great time last summer, and it helps to have 3 drivers, that we were wanting to make it work. I found tickets for $259 coming into Baltimore at 4 pm on Christmas Eve. Mom said get them. By the time I got home to purchase the tickets (45 minutes later), the tickets had gone up to $399. Ugh!

I started to panic! I searched for a while and finally found some decent seats on jetblue. They don't fly to Baltimore, but to Washington DC Dulles. That didn't seem too far away, so I got them! (Plus I got points toward jetblue miles....I LOVE jetblue!)

Whoops....not that! :)

There we go! (Pics googled)

So I think we have everything figured out in getting there at least! We'll have to beg one of the brothers to wake up super early to get us to the airport by 5:30 am Christmas Eve. We have a layover in Long Beach, CA (just to make it a true cross-country flight on top of the road trip later) then on to Washington DC Dulles airport. Uncle Don will be there to pick us up there and we will stay a few days before we have to drive back to Utah. We're thinking it will take us 3 days. Hopefully we'll be back by Dec. 30. On Dec. 31 Amy and I will drive to Tustin, CA and I fly back to Utah on Jan. 2. PHEWPH! Christmas in PA and New Years in CA! I LOVE the time I live in!!!

Is all your shopping done?

2011-12-18T23:52:00.000-07:00

"Is all your shopping done?" or "Are you ready for Christmas?"

They're interesting questions that I have been asked several times this year. And I've been asked this in about every setting: work, family, church, at stores, etc.

I think it's really used as a conversation starter with little meaning behind the question, but this year it just makes me feel uncomfortable when I'm asked that.

This season isn't about the shopping for gifts. It's about the Spirit of Christ that is manifested by our actions and words to each other at this special time of year. Giving gifts is one way to show Christlike actions, but it isn't about deadlines to mail greeting cards and perfect gifts to find for loved ones. I don't know if it's been like this my whole life and I'm just now seeing it, but I feel that we stress so much about things that are supposed to be helping us feel Christ's love and it's making it miserable most of the time. Giving gifts, in my opinion, needs to be a simple thing that shows your love. If it's something that your procrastinating, then maybe you need to rethink why you're doing it. (In my life, I procrastinate the things I don't want to do, but have to do or feel that I should do).

My friend wrote me an email tonight that really touched me.

I watched one of my all-time favorite Christmas movies, "Mr. Krueger's Christmas." Jimmy Stewart is one of my most favorite actors and even though this movie is a bit short, its messages move me to tears every time I watch it. One of the most important messages found in it is that Jesus is always by our side, no matter where we are in our lives. He is there through the good and bad. It's comforting to know when I'm struggling that I'm not alone. I've seen people spend a lot of money on Christmas shopping so far, and Christmas is so much more than that. I can't really afford gifts, but I do what I can. I think we sometimes get too caught up in making everyone happy during the holidays instead of reflecting on our own lives and asking the question, "Is what I'm doing with my life making the Savior happy?"

Brother Hillstead was one of the speakers in Sacrament meeting today and his talk really made me think. He said that he found it very ironic that in society using the word Christmas is almost prohibited and politically incorrect, yet people everywhere are still using the symbols of Christ in the "Holiday" Celebrations.

The wreath represents eternal life. The tree represents everlasting life and it points heavenward. The candy cane is the shepherds crook. Candles and now Christmas lights represent Christ as the Light of the World. Santa himself represents Jesus Christ as he gives of himself.
See more symbols here.

I just want you to know that I know this is a time to celebrate the birth of Our Savior. And I celebrate His birth because of His Atonement for me and you. I can be Redeemed through repentance and His grace. For that I owe my life to Him. And I do that by giving gifts of the gospel to others, by showing charity and love to all, and by living my life to reflect Jesus Christ.

Would you like some Love with that?

2011-12-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

We had a special stake meeting and Elder Rasband spoke along with the stake president, President Moffat and his wife, President Robert and Matron Haight (son of David B. Haight), and the counselors in the Stake Presidency, and one sister from the Welby ward getting ready to go on her mission.

I've been thinking a lot about love today. President Moffat talked about how he wondered after he and his wife had their first child, how they will ever have enough love for another. 4 more kids and 21 grandchildren later, he said there isn't an issue with that.

I've never thought that we were born with a certain amount of love in us....It's not something you buy at the store, and once you run out you have to buy more, or you're just out of it. I think love is truly what makes the world go round. The more you love, the more love you have to give.

My friend is a new Aunt. I loved her recent post. She starts by saying "How can you love someone so much you just met?" Why is that? Is it because you just know you're family? I think we're all meant to love each other as brothers and sisters that much. Can you imagine if you just loved that deeply all the time? It just blows me away and I am so struck by such a thought. Isn't this the Love of God? Isn't this a hint of what Charity really is? Now I see a little bit what His love really can mean.

2011-12-07T00:10:00.002-07:00

Is it better to always be alone then to have beautiful companionship, then be alone? My dear, sweet Janet, my heart goes out to you.

http://jrobertslott.blogspot.com/2011/11/seven-years-ago-today.html

Taking Control....again...

2011-12-07T00:09:00.000-07:00

Who in the world is in charge of me?!?! They keep making mistakes!!! I'm not supposed to be so lazy, uptight, frustrated with the cheerleaders, messy at home and at work, late on IEPs, well, late in general, and chubby. And I'm not supposed to stay up until midnight on school nights! I need to take control! Do you want to know why my life is a little messy right now? Oh, it's because I've not been reading my scriptures. This happens every time. I don't know why there ever is an "every time". I wish I would just learn my lesson! I love reading the scriptures....I just don't do it consistently! Ugh!

I want to read my scriptures every day.
I want to pray every day.
I want to exercise every day.
I want to be clean (house and classroom).
I want to be on time....early even.
I want to make a menu.
I want to learn cool skills like how to rotate my food storage, after I get food storage.
I want to eat my own food...(this kind of made me sick http://www.foodincmovie.com/)
I want to be in charge....not whoever else has been. That person makes things too complicated.
I want to work hard.
I want to play hard.
I want to be compassionate, friendly, helpful, serviceable, loving, honest, kind.

Dance Update

2011-11-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

I have now learned (not quite mastered, but I can do it without totally looking like a klutz...and sometimes without thinking):

The basic time step we learned (I don't know the name). It goes STOMP Hop Flap Flap Stomp, STOMP Hop Flap Flap Stomp.
The Shirley Temple
The Buffalo
A Single Time Step I randomly found on youtube.com

I have blisters on both feet and the possible beginnings of an ingrown toenail. I will soon have "dancer" status! I absolutely LOVE it!

Dance.

2011-11-11T06:56:00.000-07:00

I'm finding my way back to something that I have no natural talent for, but the desire and natural love is enough.

This is a concept that is new to me. It makes so much sense. I have been thinking about passion a lot over the last year or so for some reason. I felt that I didn't have passion for many things at all, and I wished I had it. Well, what if you find a passion for something that you're not really good at....or that you're pretty awkward-looking at? Ha! Well, that's me and dancing. Just ask my mom!

When I was young, I took a drill team class. I loved it so much, and I remember putting a lot of work into it. There was a competition at the end of every year. You would make up a dance solo, dance with your class, and do drill-downs. Every year, I would put my little heart into it, and every year I was leave crying. One year, my mom said she couldn't take it anymore, and took me out. I took ballet for a few years with my friend Chelsea Curtis. We were in The Nutcracker for a couple of years. I quite right before I got my pointe shoes. The teacher swore at us, and we would have had to start driving over to Price 4 times a week. Then I took gymnastics for a year or so, I think. My last day I finally got my back handspring on my own. I've not done it since.

In high school, I took social dance class from Coach Gardner for two years. I LOOOOVED that class! I think everyone did! He made it super fun, and I made a ton of friends because of that class. I went to every school dance in high school. No, I'm not even kidding....every single one.

In college, I became less sure of myself. I signed up for a social dance class at both Dixie my Freshman year and SUU when I started there, but I ended up dropping them because there were a million girls to one boy.

When I went to Utah State, I got pretty involved in going country dancing at the Fun Park. At first, I hated it because I felt like I was terrible, but I started going every week, and got better and better. I still wouldn't call myself good, but I love it! I still love it!

My first Halloween up there in Logan, by friend Amy had friends who were hosting and "Ugly Dance". You dress Ugly and dance Ugly. I didn't know anyone there except those we came with: Amy, of course, Sara, Camille, and Jared. We show up and are the ONLY ones who dressed ugly. And you better believe we dressed ugly! haha!

Haha! I love these pictures! Our group was so great! We were really into that Ugly Dancing!! Well, that's some great dancing, I'll tell you what!

Well, believe it or not, I never really did gain the confidence in my dancing....not even after the Ugly Dance. Shocking, I know. I did say though, that I'd like to take adult dance classes when I was done with school. Perhaps ballet or something? I've always wanted to learn how to clog! I think that looks so cool.

I started working at my school, and one of my paraprofessionals was very involved in her sister-in-law's dance studio. To be honest, I didn't really think anything of it at first. Last winter, however, I had the sudden urge to take those classes again. I bought a "Groupon" deal at a dance studio that gave me 6 dance lessons. I was hoping to learn Salsa at the time. The studio was downtown though, and at the same time, I was planning on going to India for 3 weeks in the summer. Because I didn't feel like I had the money to go to India, I picked up tutoring to earn more money, and my time disappeared. I didn't go once to the studio. (Now that I think about it, I actually signed up for a Zumba pass as well....I never went there either....because I was both scared and it wasn't at a convenient location either.)

Well, last spring, I was asked (and accepted) to be the cheer advisor at the jr. high. I know NOTHING about cheer except that I used to make fun of the cheerleaders. :) Oops! It was awesome to see those girls and their talents! I decided that I wanted to learn how to do the splits. I practiced twice a day until it felt like I really pulled something in both of my knees. I stopped that! ha!

About a month ago, it just struck me that if I'm ever going to do it, I need to do it now. I texted my para, Cheryl, to ask about what adult classes Marie (her sister-in-law) was offering. I really wanted to try tap (slash clogging...I didn't know the difference). So a week ago Wednesday, I started my first Adult Jazz and Adult Tap Dance Classes! It's $5 for each class. Like I said, I'm really not good. In fact, I surprised myself with the awkwardness I portrayed! Especially in tap! My feet and ankles are awkward. Plain and simple. But I LOVE it! Love it, love it, love it!!!!

I have been practicing all week. I talked my other para, Ashley, into also going to the class last night. It was a blast! Kristy, the tap instructor, gave me tap shoes, and I practiced for over 2 hours tonight! Again, I'm terrible, but this is what this whole post is about....

Find what you love to do, and you WILL do it!

This also explains why I never stick with just running for my exercise. Not only am I not good at it, I don't love it . In fact, I don't even like it. In fact, I hate just running! It's not my thing! But give me something like dancing, volleyball, racquetball, etc. and I'm there! And it's exciting to do something new! I feel like a different person! And since dancing and starting volleyball again (both started last week), I've lost 9 lbs! Done!!! I'll keep at it! :)

The video below is funny, I realize that. I just learned "The Shirley Temple" time step. I'm in the garage, it's probably 55 degrees or so, I brought out my mirror and computer (for youtube.com teach you videos). My tap board is the particle board that goes with my twin bed Dad made for me. It was the best dance studio if I ever did see one! :) GO MISTY!!!

Monday....I love it when we get along!

2011-11-07T23:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday night I slept for almost 9 hours! It was wonderful! I don't know if it was because I got too much sleep or what, but last night, I was still awake at 3 AM.....REALLY? I haven't been able to get to sleep very well since getting back from Boston.

Today was a wonderful Monday though! My awesome and amazing paras, Ashley and Cheryl.....and a lot of Ashley.....put together the student binders and data sheets! FINALLY!!! We have work!!! They're seriously so awesome! I cannot do my job without them! So today we got a lot of work with the students done! Peer tutors are learning programs, and it was just an awesome Monday. Okay, okay...I admit...My little hitter/kicker isn't going to be here at all this week, and I'm relieved.

After school we were supposed to have cheer practice, but there was a miscommunication, so we didn't! Sweet! Instead I left the school at 3:40 (that never happens!), deposited my reimbursement check from the beginning of the year supplies, and headed to the Women's Clinic. Ugh. This is the 2nd time I've ever gotten an exam. It's uncomfortable, and I just don't like it. The first time I went was right after my mission...they called me with results:

"You tested positive for HPV."
"What's HPV?" (I have no idea!)
"A sexually transmitted disease that can lead to cervical (I think) cancer."
"I've never had sex. Is there a different way to get it?"
"No"
"Well, I've never had sex."
"Uhhh...." Silence. "We're going to have you come back in for another exam. Sometimes the lab results can be wrong."

WHAT?!?! I have an STD?!?! HAHAHAH!!!!!!

So I went back in, and of course everything was fine. But I had to get it done twice in one month! Ugh! Well, 3 1/2 years later, I go back.

The Dr. asks if there's anything wrong. I say no. She asks if I'm sexually active. I say no. Have you ever been? No. She looks at me like I'm crazy. She says maybe I should consider taking birth control and she rolls off the statistics of those who take birth control reduce their chances of ovarian and cervical cancers. Uhh....no thanks. I don't know why, but I have strong opinions about birth control. I sound very...what's the word? ignorant....when I say this. I haven't done any research or anything, but I just don't feel right about taking it. Others can do as they please, but for me, I'll take my body as it is, thanks.

She asked at least 3 other times if I was sure. Sure I'm sure! Thanks anyway!

Well, what an exciting exam......she said she found a lump. Great. I don't feel like it's anything really, but I have to go have a breast ultrasound next week just to make sure. That's reassuring to know they take every precaution, but I really don't think it's anything.

I got home, made dinner (breakfast burrito! mmm! Breakfast for dinner- my fav!). Chatted with Sara for a bit, then went to FHE. Roasting marshmallows and making S'mores! I LOVE campfires and s'mores, so it was fun. It was a good group, but I didn't really talk to anyone. Just observed. I was freezing when I got home, so I got in the shower, put a load of laundry in, did some youtube zumba, and finally unpacked from Boston! My room looks and feels SO much better! It's not quite there, but almost. I'm listening to "Seven Miracles That Saved America" by Chris and Ted Stewart. It's awesome! I'm also trying to get caught up from missing General Conference. And I'm listening to Christmas music. And it's past 11 and I need some sleep!

Good Night World! Happy Monday Night to You!

Life + Perspective = Amazing

2011-11-05T23:18:00.000-06:00

The good things-

It's been a busy, productive, hard, fun, wonderful, and humbling week. I feel that Heavenly Father gives us a little nudge here and there to help us in life. Looking back at this week, I am reminded how amazing life is. It's so easy for me to get so caught up in the "routine" of life, that I can be distracted away from the things and people who make the meaning of life. The most important, of course, is our relationship with Our Father and Savior. I have been blessed to see, talk to, and do things with so many people who I love and look up to this week (who I know were sent to me as His earthly angels). It's amazing how much happened in just one week. In a nutshell, I'm grateful for pivot points in life that help us become better and/or change.

I'm reminded of Elder Oaks "Good, Better, Best" talk (2007) and Lynn G. Robbins' talk in April "What Matter of Men and Women Ought Ye to Be?" I really do like "to do" lists (literally and figuratively) and that can be such a distraction. Life is breathtaking when you think about it. There are SO MANY choices and options, good and bad, and we have one minute at a time to choose, then live that something in life. Whether to act or be acted upon. I'm so grateful that I've been given the opportunity to experience life in the way I have, with the Gospel. Sometimes I think about that too much and almost start to feel guilty that not only was I born in the Church, but I was raised by parents who know and live the teachings of the Savior. They taught their children well, and I have been blessed to gain a testimony myself at a young age. With that, I hope more than anything I'm able to reach out and portray the Savior's love to others. At least, that's where I'd like to be.

Sunday I met a new church friend. His name is Mr. Washington (Tom). I think we're going to be good buds. We've been emailing back and forth all week. It's been fun to get to know him. After church I went over to Kim's and she, Anne, Julie and I planned our date for Friday. Heavenly Father really knows what he's doing. He has placed people in my life who I need. I need these dear, awesome friends!

Monday was Halloween, and I dressed up as a witch and made a witch's brew with my class. We all had a great time! That night, Tim brought the boys over for trick-or-treating. Lochlyn was Mario and Everett was a dragon. SO CUTE!!! Tony, Desi, and Lexi came over too. Tony wore a clown's wig, Desi was an inflatable M&M, and Lexi was Areil-the Little Mermaid. (Desi made Lexi's costume! It was SO CUTE!!) We all had dinner together, making homemade root beer, eating spider and bat noodles with monster eyeballs (meatballs) and witch's fingers (breadsticks). Then we went to visit Dan, Jen, and Lily. Lily was an elephant and she was stinking adorable! I just love my family! I'm so grateful for them!

Tuesday I got to play volleyball after a year or so absence. It feels great! I'm not so great right now, but I'm getting there.

Wednesday, I went to my first Adult Jazz and Tap dance classes. SO MUCH FUN!!! I'm more awkward than I thought I'd be, but I love it. I'm ordering my shoes tonight! :)

Thursday was more volleyball. I played better and I feel great after just those three days of fun things!

Friday was a blast! Kimmy put together a murder mystery date night. I was Miranda T. Shetes (an actress). It turned out that I was really a porn star (ummm....can we say uncomfortable...my face was red, don't you worry!). But at least I wasn't the murderer. Kim set me up with her friend Greg. He's wicked smart and really tall and cute, too. I set Kim up with Dallin Olsen. Anne was the only one who brought her date (Russ) and then she set Julie up with her friend Kevin. We got to eat great food, dress up, and have a great time (and I wasn't the murderer)! YES SIREE!

Saturday, I picked up my Bountiful Basket and then my co-workers, Brooke, Marcia, and Jenn came over for brunch. It was great to get together with those awesome ladies! I loved it! Then, Dus and Sundi came up to go to the temple. It was so much fun! I love my nieces and nephews! And I love Dus and Sundi! Have I mentioned how much I love my family? Then I got to talk to Jessie who just got home from her mission. Man, I love that girl! She's such a powerhouse in the gospel! And Amy is in town....I'm really hoping I get to see her tomorrow! Here it is Saturday night, I remembered that it's Fast Sunday tomorrow, which is good. And tomorrow is daylight savings so I get to sleep in an extra hour. :) Oh, and I saw this video for the first time. It is life-changing! I really do feel that this is what we're here for....to help others when they can't.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwwxBjpvDVQ&feature=player_embedded

I am looking forward to Sunday (and an extra hour tonight because of daylight savings!). I am really loving my calling and this ward.

Things to remember

2011-11-05T23:11:00.000-06:00

Frisbee Golf pre-reunion :)
Kimmy's birthday-tripping on my dress
Boston Trip:

Fun with Shalee and Heather
Sheila
Genzales
HMS- Lunch, Office Fun, Rick Gillis
Duck Tour- Kronk
Food, so much food
Rockport
Church- Alejandro, Annie, Estradas, Sheila/Angela, home teachers, Daniela, Cindy
Lawrences
Dented rental car
Deerfield

School:

Twins' parents upset
Cheerleader Mom upset
Cheerleader quit
Little Girl hitting/kicking- aggressive toward kids on bus
Cheerleaders on Probation
AWESOME PARAS!!!

Sore Feet.

2011-11-05T23:06:00.001-06:00

It's really been a great week! I've been running like mad. I'm exhausted and very satisfied for what has been accomplished. The first week of school is always a challenge. Last year didn't go so great. This year was awesome!

<<<>>>

Life.

2011-09-16T00:42:00.000-06:00

It's been crazy at work. And when I say crazy I mean difficult and challenging. One reason I chose my field is because it would for sure never get boring! Believe me, it's not boring!

I have great friends. I really have THE. BEST. FRIENDS on the planet. And I keep making new ones who are at the same caliber. How did I get to be so blessed? I'm really not sure to be honest, but I am so grateful!

Tonight my friend Maurie and I went to see "The Help". I listened to the audio book when I drove to Oregon last February and it was amazing! The movie is actually very awesome! Of course they couldn't put everything in, but it was great and the casting was fantastic!

Then we just sat outside for a couple of hours and had a really great conversation. I love great conversations. It's so uplifting!

Well, then I came home and checked facebook (of course) and saw a good mission buddy is engaged! I'm so happy for him! I'm tellin' ya though, this is the year of marriage! I'm going to count it up some time...

I also just bought myself a birthday present....books! Every Dorothy Keddington book that I know of! Thank you Amazon! And I also bought "Matched" and pre-ordered "Crossed" by Ally Condie. YAY!!!! Happy Birthday Misty!

AND I have my tickets for BOSTON!!! I'm going over UEA break and also taking a couple of days off! Oh Boston, I've missed you! AND I'm going with my good buddy Heather and get to show her around! I've always wanted to be a tour guide in Boston. I didn't get to with my Mom and Dad because for some reason they came to Boston a little earlier and already knew their way around. :)

Oh AND tomorrow's Friday! And the day after that is Saturday and then comes Sunday. (Thank you Rebecca Black! I was a little confused about how those days all worked out.) Saturday I'm going with two mission buddies to Park City to do the Alpine Slide and zipline and Sunday we're having a BBQ at my house! Yep, it's good that life!

9/11/01

2011-09-11T11:01:00.001-06:00

I remember 10 years ago getting ready for school (Senior year) and my mom yelled to come downstairs because something terrible happened. The first plane had hit tower 1. The newscasters were just talking and speculating. Then we saw the other plane hit tower 2 and we knew, everyone knew, it wasn't an accident. In school we just watched the news all day.

One year later during my Freshman year at Dixie State College, a classmate in my English class went to D.C. for the anniversary because her mom and dad were in the Pentagon during the attack. Her dad made it out, but her mom was never found. To meet someone who actually lost a loved one changed it even more to me. My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost loved ones, for those fighting right now because of that day, and for our country that we may always remember God who gave it to us.

Watching the history channel right now....it feels like it's happening right now, today. Such a feeling of disbelief and shock and sadness.

I remember that sometime- either that day or the next day maybe???- as a nation we had a moment of silence. The entire high school went outside around the flag at half-staff and had a minute of silence.

“We no longer have the luxury of spending our energy on anything that does not lead us and our families to Christ."

Sheri Dew - 2000

(Thanks Ashley for posting this on your blog)

2011-09-07T15:31:00.001-06:00

What was I thinking?!?

Too Busy

2011-08-23T22:38:00.000-06:00

It's just been one of those weeks! It's only a Tuesday night and I'm exhausted....in a good way though.

As if it being the first week of school weren't enough (ie. getting into the swing of things, getting a schedule made and changing it every day for the first 2 weeks of school, waking up at 5 or 5:30 am to get everything ready in the mornings, after school cheerleading practice, prepping more after school until 5, 6, or even 7 pm, shopping for classroom supplies that I'm just realizing I need or getting at the sales come up....you know, things like that!)

I also have the regular week stuff like ~~FHE~~ sorry..it's now just HE (home evening)...and I had a return that I had to take back today at the latest at the Columbia Outlet in Park City. I wouldn't have bothered, but it was $80 worth of stuff, so it was worth it! My buddy Andrea came with me, which made for a fun little drive! While there, I went to the Fossil Outlet to pick a new watch. Why do I need a new watch you wonder? Oh, I didn't tell you the saddest news? My watch slipped off my wrist as we were white-water rafting in Jackson!!! :( Don't ask me what I was doing wearing it.....it's never fallen off before and it's waterproof so I didn't think anything of it! It was bronze-toned and awesome! I loved that watch and I can't find one like it anywhere!! :( So I spent lots of time in the store trying to find one that sort of worked....it's leather. It's super cute, but it's leather. There are so many things wrong with leather. 1. It can break eventually. (My favorite brown leather belt wore out and broke this summer as well....I need to remember to get a new belt!) 2. It can get sticky on the wrist if I/my wrists get hot. 3. It can start to smell.

Anyway, this week I also need to be getting packed and moved to my new place in West Jordan! Exciting, bittersweet, and not the thing I'm looking forward to. I haven't even pretended to start moving! Ugh! I need to minimize, simplify, and dejunk! This will have been my 7th move since I left Logan in Dec. 2009. Yep, you got it. I have moved 7 times in less than 2 years! You'd think I'd have nothing! It's not true, unfortunately! I've aquired more since moving to the SLC area (as far as furniture and big, heavy items goes) than ever. Once again, UGH!!!

Well, it's past my bedtime and I am exhausted. Truly. Oh, but I have to remember....while at the Fossil Store the clerk stops and says "AFter 15 minutes I know who you sound like! Claire Danes! You sound like Claire Danes!" Huh! I've never been I sound like anyone before! Cute! :)

First Day...Again!

2011-08-22T23:07:00.000-06:00

I hope the "Back-to-School Dreams" eventually stop. I hope I one day feel totally prepared. It ended up being such a great day! I love my students! LOVE THEM! I'm so blessed to have the greatest class EVER! It's going to be a great year. It's going to be a busy, stressful year. The cheerleaders are a great group of girls to work with. It's giving me new experiences I didn't ever think I'd have or want. I made it through the first day. Again. I'm so glad I am able to get a Father's Blessing at times like this! I love you Dad! And thanks for the text and call today, Mom! Love you!

Love it!!!

2011-08-22T23:03:00.000-06:00

No really. I love it! The original Rebecca Black song is so out there that you can't help but watch it! And a Mormon parody on it? DONE!

What I Learned Today

2011-08-09T00:10:00.001-06:00

A couple of days ago my air conditioning in my all-black exterior/interior car went out. My brother looked at it and said it didn't look good. I almost melted driving from my parents. I'm spoiled. True. It needed to be fixed! Today was the day they got me in.

I showed up at the repair shop at 7:30 am. I was told I could catch the first shuttle to get me to my district training by 8. I wouldn't have made it going with the bigger group, so I was taken separately. That was so nice! The driver was a young man who was very safe on the roads and very friendly. I got there on time and went to the training. It was supposed to be over around 3 or 3:30 so they were planning on picking me up then. They called me during the training to let me know exactly what was happening with my car (the condenser had a crack in it...it was going to cost a lot of money).

Anyway, we got done at 2. I called to see if there was any way they could come earlier and she said they'd send someone right then. An hour later I called to see if someone was still coming. I'm not going to lie, I was getting a little frustrated and annoyed. As I was sitting under the tree outside of the school waiting, I got bit by an ant that went in my pants! (True story!) I wasn't ornery or in a bad mood, but like I said, I was getting those thoughts of "poor me" or "they said they'd be here!"

The same driver picked me up and he was so kind and even apologetic! "The paper in the van said 3 or 3:30. I'm so sorry. I feel so bad! Are you so angry with me? Do you want to yell at me?" I told him I didn't want to yell at him, but he said "I'm just waiting for you to crack and start yelling."

It really struck me that we live in such a selfish society. What I mean is that I chose to be selfish. It might not be society at all. It's me. I told him that it wasn't his fault at all. It wasn't the person's fault who I talked to on the phone. There doesn't need to be fault. Life happens. It's okay. I didn't have anywhere I had to be and even if I did, it's okay. I loved talking to this young man. He was so humble and kind. And he would have let me yell at him. That's the thing! He knew it was frustrating for me to wait (who likes to wait?) but because of his empathy and compassion and kindness it made me realize how ungrateful I was for even a second to be annoyed or frustrated. And it made me feel so sorry for him that he's been yelled at before for something similar. And it made me feel sorry for even being frustrated at all. As we drove back we talked about the crazy drivers in Utah and I fully admitted to my becoming one of them. I feel like I'm always in a hurry and I have to speed. He said he loves to be safe and wants to make sure customers never question their safety with him. I never did.

I was grateful for my quick change of heart and that my frustration completely disappeared. I'm hoping that in the future I remember this and remember that I want to show love and gratitude for people. I hope that I remember that life happens and it's okay.

For some reason this reminds me of a time near the end of my mission. Elder and Sister Pope were my sometimes companions and greenes. I loved them. I had been in the same walking area for about 10 months and I wasn't used to driving. The Popes and I were getting to as many referrals as possible. It was much easier with a car....well....to at least get to them. Parking is another story. Elder Pope parked the car in East Boston, we contacted the people and had a nice visit, and when we came back, Elder Pope had a parking ticket waiting for him. I felt so bad! I should have looked at the signs. I wasn't even thinking though because it'd been so long since I've had to worry about it. I was very apologetic and he looked at me in his quiet, wise way and said "Sister Heaton, there's no use crying over spilled milk." Yes, I have heard that saying a million times, but I so appreciated his attitude and especially where I took blame upon myself for the ticket. Life happens and it's my choice how I react to it. It's my choice to decide what matters most. That's what I learned to day. And I'm grateful for that lesson.

Then I saw this video tonight and I was touched deeply. I am glad for how I decided to act today in the end. I hope that I will soon not even let the thoughts come to my mind because I know the things that matter most.

Dear Husband,

2011-08-08T22:10:00.001-06:00

I love you, I love you, I love you!

Elder Scott's talk, The Eternal Blessings of Marriage from April 2011 conference touched my soul. This is one of my most favorite talks of all time. Every time I hear it, I can't help but get emotional (aka cry). Elder Scott expresses such a tender and genuine love for his wife. It's a love that is worth waiting for if needed. It's a love worth fighting for. It's a love that I'm developing for someone I don't know yet and may not know any time soon. That's okay. It is eternal. It is pure. It is ordained of God. It is sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise. So I just want you, Husband, to know that I LOVE YOU! Someday I'll tell you in person, and show it to you forever.

Always,

Misty

I had another one...

2011-07-14T22:43:00.000-06:00

....of those days. The kind where you go to bed just so happy and content because it was so enjoyable! I woke up in Orangeville. I love being home at Mom and Dad's. I got a lot of sleep and slept until 7:30! I woke up to 3 of my nieces and nephews playing together. We had Mom's pancakes and homemade syrup. YUM! We played at the park. We had Food Ranch donuts. We ate lunch with Grandma (Mom) and Papa (Dad). The drive back was beautiful. We arrived safe. ;) I got to chat on the phone with one of my bestie's Camille. I finally saw my roommate/friend Katie and we even had some time for a chat. I finally went to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple for the first time(I didn't even have to google how to spell it!) to do a session. It happened to be a Spanish session, and I love that. No, I still don't know Spanish, but it was amazing (headset for English). I was wide awake the entire session. I felt peace. When I walked out the doors, my eyes were instantly drawn to the fountain and full moon (or close to) above it. When I looked out at the valley I could see the Draper Temple, Jordan River Temple, and where the Salt Lake Temple is. (I actually saw the surrounding buildings.) What a blessing! As I drove home with all my windows down and sunroof open, I could hear the crickets singing and the air was perfect.

Tomorrow? Hopefully a start with a introduction to paragliding! It really can't get much better! I'm grateful for a Loving Father in Heaven for His creations!

Summer School

2011-06-21T22:49:00.000-06:00

Working ESY-

Day 1-
Total chaos. One para was an SLP aide and was sort of familiar with the students at least! I got spat on (couldn't see out of my glasses), clawed to bleeding, and kicked. Beyond that I chased a runner, cleaned two boys mouths out after playing outside (they love to eat dirt and grass. One looked like he had been eating oreo cookies and one looked like he'd need his teeth flossed because it was in between his teeth so well!)

When I got home someone told me that they heard on the news about a boy from the school I'm working at who jumped out of the emergency exit on the bus while on the freeway. He's okay thank goodness, but what a blessing he didn't get hit by a car!

http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=16047012

Day 2-
Ky. is a para in the classroom normally and came today (huge blessing!) She knew what they didn't let the students get away with and she knew the programs. I still got clawed to the point of bleeding from the same student. I also got punched in the eye. But it was an amazingly wonderful day in comparison! First we only had 4 students today and then since Ky. came we had 3 paras and me! (1:1). The exciting things of the day were when outside, one student found more than dirt. He was holding something in his hand and kept flipping it side to side. I immediately thought it was a worm, but thought....no, that just can't be. I went over to him and yep...he had an earthworm he'd been licking and playing with. It was had been played with so much that it looked exactly like a fake rubber worm toy. I got it from him and hid it in a bush. When we were coming in from outside to get everyone cleaned up and ready to go home, I looked in the playroom and there was one student with both pants and underwear off. I asked a para to take him to the bathroom. I saw a bowl on the floor with what I first thought was juice. "What is this?" I asked. The para said one of the students had crackers in it earlier. I picked it up and it was warm. Yep, my student took off his clothes because he had to go to the bathroom. Thank goodness he went nice and clean in the bowl!

This all may sound a little crazy to some, but I just love these boys! And although they have disabilities, they are cute and hilarious and great learners if they let themselves- just like any other student I've known (regular or special ed....including my cheerleaders!) It's the longest 3 hours of my day, but I do look forward to it tomorrow! :)

2011-06-02T20:43:00.001-06:00

A new Loch fav quote- I can't wait to go to heaven because the streets are made of gold and the flowers sing!

Long Beach Trip

2011-05-08T19:00:00.000-06:00

Just a note: these are just quick notes so I won't forget the trip. Probably not interesting to read to anyone else who wasn't on the trip...

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

DAY 1- THURSDAY: AIRPORT, CAR, 99 CENT STORE, BAJA FRESH, MARIOTT, BELMONT SHORE, PIER (gross fish guts), sliding down to the beach, amazing weather

DAY 2- FRIDAY: OLVERA STREET IN L.A., VENICE BEACH, SANTA MONICA PIER, BOB'S BIG BOY

DAY 3- SATURDAY: AMY'S SCHOOL ORIENTATION- CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY in ORANGE, CA.,

Liz always thinks we're talking about her....

Kind of reminds me of the song "You're so vain. You probably think this song is about you..." haha!

Amy looks like a lion after having the ocean do her hair.
Liz looks like a lobster after spending all day in the sun.
I know everyone has read a touching book. We all have read a book that makes us choke up. My dear Momma cries all the time. I'm used to it. Liz, however, got so choked up today while we were driving in the car we asked what was wrong, she said she had to put her book away. I asked what part she was in (Hunger Games series- 2nd book- Catching Fire) and she started crying to starting to talk about it. She couldn't even talk about it. SO FUNNY!!!
Venice Beach yesterday (Friday):
Awesome Sign on a store:

"Massage Headaches, Neck Pain, Shoulders Around the Corner"
(The "Massage Headaches, Neck Pain, Shoulders" was an old sign and "around the corner" was a new sign.)

Apparently marijuana is legal for medicinal purposes in California. Well you better believe that at Venice Beach there are a lot of medical clinics to diagnose disease that would need marijuana!
At Venice, the homeless don't hold signs "Will Work for Food". They say "Will Work for Marijuana"
Waves in Hermosa Beach
Getting Naked by our car with old man watching from balcony
Drunk man throwing gardettos back at us
Yoga
Monkeys
Muscle/Mussle Beach
My new necklace ("she reversed")
My Chest.
Car Dancing

2011-05-08T18:34:00.001-06:00

2011-05-08T18:33:00.001-06:00

2011-05-08T18:32:00.001-06:00

2011-05-08T18:31:00.001-06:00

2011-05-08T18:30:00.001-06:00

This message has been sent using the picture and Video service from Verizon Wireless!

To learn how you can snap pictures and capture videos with your wireless phone visit www.verizonwireless.com/picture.

Note: To play video messages sent to email, Quicktime@ 6.5 or higher is required.

2011-05-08T18:29:00.001-06:00

2011-05-07T18:45:00.001-06:00

Although Anne looks dead in this picture she actually was going strong and i was in shock that she stopped to say hi and got too excited taking pictures! :-) She is my hero and I am grateful to call her a friend!

2011-04-22T01:09:00.000-06:00

This week I:

Hosted, with Katie, our first "game night". There wasn't so much gaming, but it was fun anyway.

Went to the Hatch's for FHE. The dinner was wonderful and beautifully displayed. Their house is my dream house! It's beautiful! I love the Hatch's and the ward! Oh I'm going to miss that ward.

Had a fun slumber party with Sara Payne for a few days! We danced and were crazy and went on a shopping spree at the outlets in Park City. She also kissed my hand in her sleep as she dreamed about her fella! SO FUNNY!!!! (I'm very grateful it was just my hand!)

Lost 6 pounds. (I gained about 10 a couple of weeks ago so I haven't had to do too much to lose 6. I need to lost those extra 4 I put on and then just keep going!)

Was crazy and insane with Amy's friends Dallin and Hyrum and Alan....mostly Dallin though. So funny!

Went dancing 3 times in less than a week! Once at the stake dance, last night at at the Fun Park in Logan- always a good time! And I went to Studio 600 downtown finally. It was alright. I'd like to have a friend with me next time.

I stayed up until 4:30 AM chatting with Amy. I love those chats!

Bought a plane ticket with Amy and Liz to Long Beach for next weekend!!!

Did a session at the Logan Temple. It was wonderful!

Visited Lanae at Sugar and Spice at the new location in Logan.

Met up with AJ and Martina for Thai at Thai Garden and Noodle House downtown SLC. I love getting together with those two! They took pictures today and Martina looked stunning! The place we ate at I wouldn't recommend to anyone though. It was fine, but the service wasn't good.

Besides hand-kissing this week, the next funny thing is this...

Do you remember Star Wars Kid? Well tonight I found myself giggling and loving myself and my adventures too much! I saw people going upstairs at Studio 600 so I decided to explore. On the main level, there's a main floor where they were country dancing and a hip hop room next door. Upstairs is a karaoke room and then there's another room that had mirrors along the wall. It was empty. I looked in the entry-way between the karaoke room and the one I was in to make sure I didn't get caught, and then I did leaps and turns and the eagle. I've been wanting to see what I really look like these days. I found myself so funny though just thinking about getting caught by someone. No one did catch me, but I guess I'm writing on my blog about it, so it's not that private! Haha! It was funny.

Tomorrow I'm meeting up with Ashli Stringer FINALLY since her mission! She's going to Alaska next month for the summer. Lucky girl! I'm also going to Sara's law school graduation and then heading to Orangeville!!! YAY!!!!

The Date:

2011-04-17T00:13:00.001-06:00

FYI: Girl stuff so don't read if you don't want to know :)

I love that I have a post titled: The Date. Yup.

About the day before the date:
So I did get Charlie all clean as planned, I went bra shopping and was supposed to go dress shopping but the bra shopping took much longer than anticipated. I went to a boutique "Lace by Louise" and got fitted and was shocked to hear the news....I'm a C! a C cup!!! :( I texted my friend Kim " :-( I just found out I'm a C " and she replied "You're the only girl who would be sad about that"! Ha! So true.

It sure did make a wonderful difference trying on the right bra size though! The attendant was wonderful and we became fast friends...which is why I was there for almost 2 hours. Good news though...36 C is the same as 38 B so I can still pull off the B!!! Haha! I totally thought I was just barely a B. Anyway, girl stuff over.

I ran to Herriman to throw on a dress I already have- it's pretty and I don't wear it often. It fit the occasion, but it's just plan black and I wanted to buy a spring dress. Oh well...I should save my money for something else anyway.

I was a half hour late getting to Robert's. He looked handsome and it was so good to see him again! It's been a little while and I'm sure glad we're friends. He cracks me up!

We had dinner at Famous Dave's - one of my fav. places to eat and made it to the Capital Theater with 10 minutes to spare. We saw "Bolero". I know nothing of the story and it would have helped. I've actually only been to The Nutcracker, which I absolutely love, but it's much different than a modern ballet. I think there might have been 3 acts, but we left after the second to get some of our own dancing in.

The dance had maybe 50 people....maybe. They were playing a lot of techno music and so Robert gave them his ipod and we got a few two-step and swing dancing in! It's been A LONG time since I've danced! I love it, I'm a terrible follower, and it was a blast! Robert is a good fella.

Great End, Great Beginning.

2011-04-16T10:58:00.001-06:00

Today is wonderful, and it's only 10:30 am! A perfect end of the longest week of the school-year and an awesome beginning of spring break!
Cheerleading tryouts are now over, the Roses and Crying day is over, angry parents....hopefully over. 13 girls for next year's squad. The lucky 13. Here we go!
Last night I got to babysit Lochlyn and Everett! I love those little boys! Tony and Desi asked if we wanted to go to the Blaze game...we attempted it but it was just after half time and the ticket office was closed. They wouldn't let us in with just out "Pass of all Passes". That about did me over...I started feeling sorry for myself for a few minutes but then Tony and Desi called, left the game and took us out for ice cream at Leatherby's! What an awesome brother and sister-in-law!
Today I slept in until 6:30 and WENT BACK TO SLEEP after putting the dog outside! That's right! Slept until 9:30! Roxy and I went outside to play and it was perfect and beautiful and we even got a small shower! I do love April Showers! I don't love April Snowstorms though.
I have no idea what I'm doing this week I have off, but I can tell already it's going to be great! Today includes cleaning Charlie (the car), shopping for a new dress, going on a date to the ballet and multi-stake dance with my buddy Robert! I hope we get some good dancing in :) He's my favorite two-stepper! (That's right, I asked a guy out! And it TOTALLY counts even if it's a friend!)

Happy Saturday to you!

Blast of Winter

2011-04-03T13:44:00.002-06:00

Valley Fair Mall
Since it had been so winter-like this month, I thought it appropriate to listen to my Christmas music and share old videos and pics from my phone.

2011-04-03T13:36:00.001-06:00

The best Greek food found at Valley Fair Mall. I love that mall! I have never loved a mall before...

2011-04-03T13:32:00.000-06:00

Silly library!

2011-04-03T13:31:00.001-06:00

And this is what we woke up to this morning! Almost April Fools :-)

2011-04-03T13:28:00.002-06:00

The mountains were shining as i drove to work a couple of days ago.

Dating Maturity

2011-03-28T23:33:00.002-06:00

Today I realized that the only time I don't like to tell my age is when I have dating drama. It has nothing to do with telling a guy (or anyone) I'm 27 because it seems old. It has to do with knowing I'm 27 and when it comes to dating or being pursued or wanting pursuing, I act like I'm 17. "He's asked me out and I'm in love." "Oh, he said 'such and such' what does it mean?" "I can't sit by him on Sunday because he'll think I like him." (even though I do) "Should I text him, or is that taking over his responsibility?" "If I say 'this and this' will he think I like him because I don't know if I do." "I shouldn't go out with him again this week because I'm not sure if I'm feeling it." blah blah blah. I'm sick of it! I may be exaggerating slightly, but it's pretty close. I've had my share of dating experiences so why do I act the same? Can't I grow up?

For the love of all that is holy, he's just a man! (If you can name the movie, I'll put you in the drawing for my next contest!) Katie and I decided that is our new theme and we're going to make vinyl lettering for the house. And then put up my "Families are Forever" quote hanging. :)

I liked my life 2 months ago. I just then realized how happy life is and how happy my single life was. I'm tellin' ya! Don't think that because fellas get thrown into your life when you're happily single and it all come crashing down!

My name is Earth.

2011-03-28T23:20:00.000-06:00

Today when I got to work I noticed that I was wearing every shade of brown I almost possibly could. So I changed my name. To Earth. Earth Heaton. And I laughed. I did have two co-workers say I looked cute (before I told them I changed my name to Earth). To qualify this outfit I did get an email from Crayola (that's right! We're on a first-name, emailing basis Crayola and I!) today reminding me that Earth Day is April 22 and I can get my class ready for it, etc, etc! :) I just want you to know I thought of my new name (Earth) before I got the email. The only reason I thought of earth was because it reminded me of the outfit I wore for the Logan Post-Paddy's Party a couple of weeks ago...

I love St. Patrick's Day! I wore almost every green thing I owned. (That's my green scarf that fella is wearing...). I thought I had a better outfit picture, but this will have to do. Anyway, the brown is for Earth day, which I may just wear again for that special holiday!

2011-03-15T21:15:00.001-06:00

I may have loved my book just a little more tho...I got caught!

2011-03-15T20:18:00.001-06:00

My first Real game! I loved it even more than I thought I would!

2011-03-10T20:25:00.001-07:00

It's my years supply! How do you justify your Girl Scout cookie?

Roommate Venting...and it's funny!

2011-03-10T20:03:00.005-07:00

My 30-Something Roommate Venting This Morning via Text:

"Not sure who didn't get the 'when someone's already in the shower' memo, but I hope yours wasn't as cold as mine. TWO ice cold showers early on a winter morning would just be cruel"

Background on why it's eye-rolling funny:
I leave my house between 6:45 and 7:00 AM every weekday. I shower and get ready every morning before I leave (naturally). It is a very rare occurrence that anyone else is stirring. In my 7 months living here in fact, Anne is the only other roommate I have seen that time of morning and that's only because she is AMAZING and is training for an Ironman.
So it was a surprise this morning to be in the shower and it is annoyingly turning from hot to cold and back again. When I turned my shower off, I could hear the shower upstairs on. What the??? Oh well...not a big deal. But I did think it was Anne.
I got a similar text to the one above a couple of weeks ago...I had no idea what she was talking about and of course didn't respond. I found it hilarious to get this one today though! I knew she was talking about me showering (because it's what I do that time of the morning EVERY morning) and thank goodness no, mine was not ice cold! I AM glad I got some warmth in mine! No cruelness today.

This One Takes the Cake:

In case you can't read this it says "Ladies I know everyone likes to read the Ensign but I would REALLY appreciate it if I was allowed to open and read my mail 1st. Thanks" (Yes, that magnet that is holding the note up says "Love Never Fails".)

Ironic? I think so! No folks, it doesn't get easier as you get older. We singles just have such a rough life! (sarcastic tone)

We got two in one day...I was laughing about the text, but when I saw the note on the fridge I almost fell to the floor laughing!

Post Edit: Anne and I were just laughing about this occurrence (as she is the red-handed Ensign opener and reader) and I said the text was funny, but the note topped it off. She said she didn't get a text! Bah ha! I love that she writes it as if to all of us, but only sends it to the truly guilty.

2011-03-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

Readers' Oath

by Debra Angstead

I promise to read

Each day and each night.

I know it's the key

To growing up right.

I'll read to myself,

I'll read to a crowd.

It makes no difference

If silent or loud.

I'll read at my desk,

At my home and at school,

On my bean bag or bed,

By the fire or pool.

Each book that I read

Puts smarts in my head,

'Cause brains grow more thoughts

The more they are fed.

So I take this oath

To make reading my way

Of feeding my brain

What it needs every day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Dr. SEUSS!!!

*Stolen from one of my favorite blogs*

2011-02-15T01:12:00.002-07:00

The flowers for us girls from Jake our Home Teacher

The BEST Valentines Day YET!!

2011-02-15T01:10:00.001-07:00

Although, I do have to say that Travis Guymon surprising me with my first Valentine flower when we were in high school comes in pretty close. Last year in San Francisco with a fella had great potential, but I had expectations and was a disappointed. (He wasn't a romantic....surprise! I have so much romance in me that I attract the non-romantic type so we can have a healthy balance. That's my theory anyway. That or I'm not as much of a mushy romantic as I think I am?) But we're not here to talk about what isn't The BEST Valentines Day Yet....we're going to talk about what IS!!!

In school today the students all made Valentines for each other, teachers, bus drivers, the principal, and friends. We had treats and juice, and I just realized again how much I just love my students!!!

Some friends had planned a Singles Sushi night and I was planning on that, but it got cancelled...The other option was to go with my ward for FHE. They were going to the cheap seats theatre to watch a movie. I thought about going, but ordering Chinese food and cuddling in my pajamas sounded much more appealing. I came home for about an hour and caught up with my ol' Dixie College buddy Clint on facebook chat where he showed me a new fav. website and a new song before going to tutor in Draper. After tutoring I went to a car dealer hoping to find the "perfect" car. I'm starting to get frustrated with myself because I am really picky at the same time of being indecisive. Ugh! As I was driving back from the dealership thinking about what movie I wanted to watch, I got the best idea! Do the traditional Valentinesing and doorbell ditch!!! I got so excited!!! I went to Walgreen's to get some treats and headed North. As I pulled up to Tony's, he was just taking in groceries. Great! He caught me! Next I stopped at Andrea's downtown. She at least didn't catch me! After a good chat and quick catch-up, I headed to West Jordan for Tim's and then Dan's. I was talking to my buddy to get some guy advice so I sat in the driveway and Lindsey came out wondering who was sitting in the driveway. Ok...that didn't work. Loc was happy to get a little treat though. It was 10:45 by the time I made it to Dan's. Again I was on the phone so Dan peaked out to see who was sitting in their driveway! Haha! So I missed Easton and Lauren :(

Then I rushed to the airport to pick up my roommate Anne from the airport. She was coming back from Boston from her PA School Interview! She got accepted!!! And she brought me lots of treats from Trader Joe's! Then we went to Camille's. All her lights were out, and I'm glad! I have a key!!! hee hee!!! We scared her good! When Anne and I got home, we were surprised by a flower for each of us by our adorable home teacher, Jake. (When I say adorable, I mean just that. He's so pure and innocent and young and kind of like a puppy. Yep, a puppy!) Anyway I'll post pics.

Although I didn't succeed well at the "ditch" part in doorbell ditching, it was such a fun night! I'm really quite glad that I'm where I'm at right now and could spend some time and with lots of loved ones. I love love!

Favorite Quote of the Day...

2011-02-14T16:59:00.001-07:00

"my mother has officially lost it. i'm grounded until i finish all the merit badges i need for my eagle scout award, and i still have like two years to finish it. ugh phsyco"

Logan Hansen

Today I.....

2011-02-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

ripped my pants.

I blame it all on my rock-hard quads from P90X. It wasn't in the crotch...it was on the inseam....again, because my quads are just so strong and muscular! Don't worry....no one saw it and no one knew. Except that I just told you. So now you know. But I know the secret's safe because I'm not a famous blogger. Phew!

Bummer is they were my fav.

Reunions in Blessed Logan

2011-02-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend was wonderful. You know, 2011 so far has been wonderful! I've really been loving this year all around!

Friday night Julie, Kim, and I went to a benefit concert for Dan Sloan featuring Jason Hewlett. Wow, that one sentence I just wrote entails SO MANY THINGS!!! First, it's always a wonderful time with Julie and Kim! I love these two so much! Second, Dan's story is amazing and I'm glad that I was able to help a little. Third, Jason Hewlett was hilarious! I recommend! It was unique and enjoyable....It was just a wonderful time!

Saturday I picked up my bountiful basket, did some laundry, and headed up to Logan because Amy invited me! I felt so loved!!! Amy, Liz, and I played a great hour of racquetball (which I love and still need to find someone here in SLC to play with me), had lunch at Costa Vida (mmm....that sweet pork!), then went to the USU vs. Boise basketball game! There I met up with an ol' 38th ward buddy, Brandon, and I just love Aggie games!!! How can you not LOVE THIS and THIS??? It was a sad game because poor Boise was just having a hard time and we beat 'em by about 30 points or more, but I love that the crowd is in it the whole game anyway (even cheering Boise on at the end!).

Amy, Mark, and I ended up going back to Amy's and watching "Crash" (edited) which pulls at so many emotions. I really like that movie.

Sunday morning I decided to go to R.S. with Amy and Steph because it started at 9 and I could still get back to my church to get the programs copied and folded. I got some snuggling in with Kari and a little catch-up and we went to church!

I was hoping to see my dear friend Charlotte in my old ward with wonderful Bishop Weaver, Brother Eccles, and Brother Curtis....their church started at 9:30. Charlotte was there and I was so happy! She's been through a really hard time lately and is just pulling herself out of it! I ended up staying in that sacrament meeting. While sitting there, I just felt so overjoyed....my heart felt like it was going to burst with love! I love that ward so much! I got up to share my testimony and felt how much I loved reunions! There were a few people who were still there from over a year ago. And there were others who have been there since I first went to that ward even (Charlotte, Brandon, and Jared). Bailey is in that ward now, and she was in my ward when I first got off my mission and moved to Logan! It really was just wonderful!

Funny story: Mindy Thornton is now the R.S. Pres. in that ward. Well she gets up to share her testimony and she says that people call her Misty all the time. Mindy is living not only in my old house, but in the room I was in, too! Not only that, she was wearing the same cardigan as I was just in a different color. Mindy told me that she won't talk to her neighbors (Brandon and Preston) because they refuse to call her anything other than Misty...awww!!! I knew they missed me! :)

The drive back to SLC was a great time to just feel how much Heavenly Father really does love His children! Not only in the beauty around us, but He really loves us! He loves me and you! Oh, it was a beautiful weekend!

one-one-one-one-one-one-one-one-one

2011-01-11T23:11:00.000-07:00

Happy 1-11-11 at 11:11

I just had to do it :-)

(November will be fun!)

It Just Comes Naturally...

2011-01-10T22:31:00.001-07:00

I really don't mean to be a brat, but seriously...I JUST AM!!! I guess it's a good thing that I'm at least catching myself sounding like a brat....it means I recognize it and can work on it, right? RIGHT?!?!? I sure don't like this quality of mine...Ugh!

2011-01-09T02:37:00.001-07:00

2010-12-27T01:10:00.001-07:00

Thank you Carrot Jello! This is one of my favorite blogs to read! She is hilarious! But tonight I found an amazing playlist as well, so thanks!

Foggy

Santa!!!

2010-12-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Last day of school until 2011!!! I have much I want to say, but am going to watch a movie (and I'm sure fall asleep to it) but Santa has a message for my nephew!

I know it's not New Years Eve yet...

2010-12-11T19:52:00.002-07:00

But I absolutely LOVE this version of this song!!!! I'm not particularly fond of the song otherwise, but the banjo does wonders!!!

Auld Lange Syne by The Lonesome Travelers

2010-12-01T19:41:00.001-07:00

Guess what is in my house!?!

Are you worthy to clean?

2010-12-01T00:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had to be living a higher standard to be accepted to clean? Isn't that amazing? Tonight I got the opportunity to help clean the Salt Lake Temple. It's 12:47 and I just got back. So the Holy Ghost doesn't always go to sleep at midnight! :) I just couldn't go to sleep without writing about a great experience vacuuming! Dressed in white (in an old baptismal jumper) and cleaning. I love the way things are put in the church. As we were given instructions, the sister said that the zippers to the jumpers sometimes have a mind of their own. Please keep an eye on your zipper! Bah Ha!!! So great!

Goodnight!

That's My Mom.

2010-11-30T01:01:00.000-07:00

Isn't she beautiful? I wish I looked more like my mom. She has the most beautiful smile I have ever seen. Today is my mom's birthday. It's kind of a big deal. Why? Well, Dorian Heaton is a big deal! You'll never find someone so quick to love and serve. She has so many wonderful and unique talents! She is a fantastic cook and can whip something up in no time that will just amaze you every time. My mom knits, crochets, tats, sews (and I'm sure I'm forgetting many other things, but I just don't know what they're all called). She creates things that will take your breath away! (See pictures below....she made a blessing dress that takes hours and hours and HOURS for each of her granddaughters)

My mom has a very tender and firm testimony of the Savior, Atonement, the Plan of Salvation, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She has always been a strong foundation for me. "I did not doubt because (my) mother knew it". My momma is someone I trust and spill my heart out to frequently. She does not judge and she ALWAYS has love for me even when I disappoint. I have been so blessed to be born into my wonderful family. I have been blessed to be close to my mother- well, both my parents. My mom is the sister I never had. She is a dear friend as well as an incredible example of what a good woman can and should be.

My mom had 5 sons....FIVE!!!! On top of those 5 sons she had me! ME!!!! We are truly the most blessed of anyone. We adore her. She is a gift.

My mom is a wonderful Grandma. I love watching her with the grandkids. She has so much love and patience and knows how to make things fun and happy. My mom is a happy person. She isn't showy or fake in any way. She is a simple and humble. I love that about my mom. You know one of the things I'm most proud of? She doesn't dye her hair. I have nothing against women who do, but I love that my mom doesn't. I love that she has beautiful grays coming in. I love that she looks the part of a grandma. I find that my mom's way is usually the best way to do things. I don't know how she does it all, but I love her for it! Can I ever be such a woman?

I love you so much, Mom and I hope you have a wonderful day today. Please know that I am so grateful to be your daughter. I am so proud of you and so deeply thankful for you in my life. Now remember, no getting older....or at least plan on living at least another 57 healthy years and then we can die together :)

How do you travel the world?

2010-11-30T00:01:00.001-07:00

I've been thinking more and more about this trip to India. I have been trying to figure everything out financially to make sure I CAN go (without going into debt....debt IS NOT an option!). I got the packet from Rising Star, filled out my visa application (and can't decide if I should get the 6 mo. or 10 yr. visa), I watched the amazing documentary (absolutely inspiring and eye-opening), and I basically can't stop thinking about it.

Since going on a mission I have realized two things:
1. The best service is usually simple and may even seem small and insignificant. And it ALWAYS benefits me more than those I'm serving.
2. I still love to travel and I still get antsy-pantsy if I stay anywhere too long, but I need more of a purpose to travel than just to see the world. I really do want to see the world, and I think traveling itself is life-changing....I wish I could put into words what it is that I feel...but anyway I just need a purpose.

When I went to another country for the first time in my life (Fiji and New Zealand with Ash), I was leaving my home country to discover another. That was a travel that didn't have more of a purpose other than to see the world. It was life-changing and was actually a significant turning point in my life. That trip was needed and there was a greater purpose than just to travel. I think every American between the ages of 19 and 25 needs to leave the country.

I don't feel like I can take a trip like that again...I actually discovered this going to Europe two summers ago. Of course I absolutely loved it, and I am still finding things that I learned from that trip but I came home feeling a little empty...a little selfish to be honest. I'm not exactly sure, but I just feel that I came to a new season....not saying that one is better than the other but from then on I knew I needed something different.

I still have the bug...the travel bug. Once I discovered other places, I have felt the deep need to discover more. My list is growing rather than shrinking (which is the way it should be, I think). I have lived in Utah most of my life and am discovering more places I haven't heard of, been to, or enjoyed. I recently watched Eat Pray Love. This blog isn't about how much I disliked the movie (because I did. not. like. what that movie/book/her life was about...cough...moving on...). However, I realized after watching it that that IS NOT what I want my travels to be about. I did gain a GREAT interest in Bali and I got even more excited about India....and I'm not going to lie, I'm jealous that she lived in Italy!

This is why I emailed Dani in the first place. I had an opportunity to go to Beijing China for 8 days for a really good price over spring break. A good friend is going and I thought it'd be silly to pass it up. It just felt empty though. So I emailed Dani (who is on of my heroes in traveling AND making a difference in all those she comes across in her travels) and asked her to help me help. That's how I found out about Rising Star Outreach.

Dani,

Since last Christmas I have decided that I'm going to have to make this Christmas different. But I don't want it to only be for Christmas, but I thought that'd be a good start. The only problem is I don't know what to do. I'm not exactly sure what you do, but I know you do a lot of volunteer work! Are there groups or websites you would recommend? I want to make sure that whatever I do really is legitimate and will really help.

Also, since I'm a teacher and have summers off, I think I'd like to do some travel volunteering. I love to travel and such, but the last few times I've gone, I kind of felt unfulfilled....I feel like I need to travel with a purpose or something. I'm still not exactly sure, but since you've done so much I was hoping to get a little light from you if I could!

Thanks for being such an inspiration Dani!

Misty-

I have the PERFECT organization for you! I have worked with a lot of different organizations in my day and I have found the best one there is. It's called Rising Star Outreach, and I have been to India twice with them. We work with leprosy colonies in Southern INdia. There are 2 and 3 week volunteer sessions during the summer, and other opportunities to volunteer throughout the year. The first time I went, I went for 6 weeks in January and February. We have 14 acres out in the countryside with a school that we teach children who have come from the leprosy colonies. THey are little angels. All the kids live on campus and there is a volunteer house where all the volunteers live. We have a coconut plantation and a mango grove and it can't get any more magical! We also have a mobile medical clinic and we travel to many different colonies giving medical treatment. Leprosy is completely treatable, but the centuries-old stigma that comes with the disease has enabled it to ravage lives. In India, if you have leprosy you are cursed. You deserve it. You are less than dogs. Because of this stigma, people with leprosy are unable to receive treatment from hospitals, have employment, and a lot of the time are disowned from their families and communities. Their children face this same stigma and are destined to a life of begging and failure. This is why we take the children from the colonies. They are being educated in a school that is the top of the line. They're getting an education that is better than most of the country. These kids will then grow up to be the leaders of India, and will change everything! How powerful is that? These kids that are lower than the underdogs will become successful and will change the destructive stigma. There is so much good coming out of this organization, I could talk about it for hours!

I'm very, very, VERY excited to do this! Another thing, however, that is kind of silly about me is that I have always felt that I don't need to go to another country to serve. (Aren't I just SO contradictory!?!?) There is just so much here at home that can/needs to be done. Why am i leaving that to do this? I was talking about that with my roommate tonight and she said "a rising tide lifts all boats". Basically if I'm able to lift others in India as well as travel to and discover India, isn't that still doing good? That really struck me. I have never heard that before. I loved it. Thank you, Nisha.

I guess the thing is, I want to know I am making a difference. Don't we serve and give to help others and society as a whole? In truth, it does not really matter that I do make a difference or not as long as I show and give true charity from my heart - total and complete Christlike love.

I'm grateful for this chance. I already feel that life is bigger than what I've been living. Heavenly Father is so good to place stepping stones along the way for us. I'm grateful for a different outlook lately. I hope I keep improving in seeing how I can help. I want to follow Jesus Christ and love everyone and show them the path to true happiness.

If you made it all the way to the end of the post, I'd like to hear your thoughts....how do you travel the world? How do you view serving?

The Adventures of Shopping for Pumpkins

2010-11-26T19:24:00.001-07:00

Teacher

So, I hear you are quite the hero. Catching knife-wielding, sluffing thugs single handed! Transporting them handcuffed and shackled across the valley!! Marching them single file and at attention for miles down the hallway!!!!! Transferring them to the legal system!!!!!!

Whatever happened to that first year teacher who said she didn't know what to do with misbehaving kids?

YOU ROCK!!!!!!!

9:34 AMHeaton, Misty

BAH HA!!!

9:34 AMHeaton, Misty

They were much better behaved than some of mine tho

That is so funny

who told you? James? He seemed pretty excited about it

9:36 AMTeacher

Carli mentioned it, then James told me. They both thought it was hysterical. The story gets even better as more people tell it. Their reactions are classic. Good for you though.

9:36 AMHeaton, Misty

Oh I love it! I want to hear them tell it Thanks for boosting me up

9:36 AMTeacher

Honestly, you say yours are worse, but if yours were pulling behaviors like theirs, (sluffing, bringing knives) you would be haning them out to dry.

that was supposed to say hanging.

9:38 AMHeaton, Misty

Oh I just meant that I kept expecting naughty-student-type defiance and even them running away! They just kept right with me with no arguments. I was shocked!

9:39 AMMilius, Karen

I know, I see that a lot too. You lay down the law, and they follow you quietly to their execution. It's and interesting phenomonon. I just think you were extra gutsy to bring them back on the bus with you. You go girl!

9:40 AMTeacher

Well thanks!

So here's a great story! (About 2 months old, but still a great story!) I took my class for the first time of the year on the UTA bus to downtown Magna :) We went to a couple of stores - the students were buying pumpkins. We work on them being able to independently get on and off the buses at the correct stops, paying for things at the store, etc.

Anyway, we were at the bus stop waiting for the bus to take us back to school when I saw two kids walking down the sidewalk. (I recognized one from school or I wouldn't have said anything.) I asked them why they weren't at school. They said they just woke up and were on their way to school. "You're telling me that you slept in and were worried about getting to school for the last period of the day?" They were giggling and thinking they were funny. I asked for their names and of course they give me fake names. I told them they had to ride the bus back with me. I had them each sit in a different seat and I stood next to them. I saw them whisper to each other and one put his hand in his pocket. I wouldn't have thought to have them empty their pockets until they looked suspicious and whispered to each other. (I told them they couldn't talk to each other.) There on the bus I had them empty their pockets. One emptied them right away and gave me a key. It was obviously a key to some cabinet or closet. I had a similar one to open my closet to the classroom. The other was arguing and very hesitant about it. I finally got him to empty one pocket. He really argued about the other one and tried to empty it and let something drop out of it. I picked it up off the ground...it was a knife! I can't say that he would have done anything about it (I personally don't think he was planning on doing anything with it because he was so scared about getting caught in the first place) but a knife as school is A BIG DEAL!!!

When we got off the bus we had to walk a half mile to the school. I marched them along being very firm and we went to the office. I had to fill out a report saying why I knew they had something in their pocket, etc. I don't know what happened because of it....my students and aides LOVED talking about the adventure though! And after talking to my fellow teacher, I felt like a real teacher and I had my induction :)

2010-11-26T18:51:00.003-07:00

“Most people think about age and experience in terms of years, but it’s really only moments that define us. We stay mostly the same and then grow up suddenly, at the turning points.”

The Overton Window by Glenn Beck pg. 7

I love this. I feel that this is absolutely true. There is a calm in the normal, day-to-day routines of life. It feels comfortable. I have found that when I am comfortable, I’m not growing. It’s the times that I’m uncomfortable - new situations, new people, new decisions - that I’m changing and growing. And it really is those moments that I remember the best.

More Lochlyn Funnies

2010-11-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Lochlyn: “Misty, there’s a bulb quicking out of my neck. I think it’s one of my bones.”

(he had a pimple or bite of some kind)

“I sprayed it and bounced off my hand and into my eye. Don’t laugh, it really happened!” “The germs are bouncing off my hands!” (talking about the hand sanitizer in my car.)

“I wish Grandpa made the ranch closer.”

2010-11-24T20:34:00.001-07:00

Oh how i love The Spectrum

2010-11-24T20:31:00.001-07:00

2010-11-24T19:52:00.001-07:00

Loving Logan. Old main in the distance...

The Next Adventure...

2010-11-22T23:14:00.000-07:00

India.

But I'm not just traveling there to take a great trip. I'm sure I will enjoy being there, enjoying the traveling, culture, people, food, smells, and adventuring. I am going here to do this. Watch to learn more.

Reminders

2010-11-21T00:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to The Lower Lights concert at The Post Theater in SLC. It blew me away! I love that venue (my friend, Camille had her concert there). That music is my kind of music. There are so many amazingly talented people in that group! I'll get more to the concert later...

I found The Lower Lights about a month ago from reading C Jane's blog. Anyway, as soon as I heard one song I fell in love. I signed up to be on their emailing list and found out about their concert. I bought 2 tickets right away. Why two? I was being optimistic and thought that it was a good way to push myself to find a date. Well, that didn't happen, but I thought I'd have one friend who I could get to come with me. This morning I didn't have anyone coming with me....I even asked my friend's roommate if she knew anyone in SLC who would want to come with me. I texted, facebooked, and called everyone I could think of. No one could come. It hit me very hard that I need to work on getting out more and making more friends in Salt Lake! Really? I couldn't find one person to come with me? Pathetic!!!!

I don't mind going to things on my own....I think that may be half the problem :-) but I would have liked to sit by someone i knew. Well, off into the snow storm I went. I was a little sad and disappointed that I didn't have a friend with me, but I was excited to go.

As soon as I walk in, I see Sister Virginia Sanders in the middle of a row and Elder Gill Sanders on the edge! I say hello and they shuffle me over to sit by them! They rearranged seating and everything just so I could sit by Sister Sanders! The Sanders served in my first area in Gardner! What a blessing it was so not only see them again, but to have someone to sit by! Sister Sanders of course was very sweet and complimented me beyond anything I will ever deserve in this lifetime saying how wonderful it is of me to get out and go to different things :) If she only knew what a big deal it was for me!

This was another great reminder that I am being watched over. My Father and Brother sent angels to comfort me tonight. I am very grateful for that.

Tender Mercies

2010-11-09T23:30:00.001-07:00

These pictures are from a visit to Wyoming we had in mid-September. It was a wonderful visit, and I'm so grateful I went. It is a day that will forever touch my life with tears, peace, heartache, and a Spirit that is undeniable.

Today I cried. It was a good kind of cry. I attended my Mission Mom's funeral. Sister JoAnn England passed away on Friday November 5. She fought MS most of her life and also 3 different bouts of cancer (one being on the mission!) I just have so much to say, but the words aren't coming. I'm just so grateful to have been touched so deeply by such a wonderful daughter of God! And I'm grateful for President England too! It was so tender to watch him and see the deep love he has for his wife. He is a rock and he knows he will see her again...that "it will be okay".
Tonight I also got to go to the Bountiful Temple for the first time (since the open house). It is such a beautiful temple and it is such an amazing view from that hill!
It was a beautiful session and I am so blessed to be able to go! As I was leaving the Brother at the front desk said goodnight and then said "Did you serve a mission?" I turned around and said "why yes I did." He said "I can just tell that you did. There's something about Sister Missionaries. They just have something special."
I just felt right away that Heavenly Father knows how much I needed that little tender mercy. I am so blessed to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I know families are eternal! I am SO GRATEFUL for that! I don't know how I would ever deal with death if I didn't know that was part of God's plan. Death isn't final...it's just one of the steps we will all take. But it really will be okay.

What Makes it Great?

2010-11-03T23:16:00.000-06:00

I'm reading my scriptures daily.
I'm praying morning and night.
I'm taking my vitamins.
I'm working out- racquetball, swimming, and lifting weights even.
I'm not staying at work until 5 or 6 at night.
I'm socializing more (dinner group, institute forum, volunteering, taking dance classes soon), trying new things (first massage today! AMAZING! I didn't realize my neck had so much movement from side to side!), and loving life (just today I finished my Leatherby's PB Cup ice cream!).
That's what makes life great!

The only thing I need to make it perfect is to remember to floss every night.

Dracula

2010-10-24T01:00:00.003-06:00

Some of my friends and I went to see the performance of Dracula.

It was fantastic! I was thinking it would be good, but it was so great! Everything about it was great actually. I went with wonderful company, we ate some great Mexican beforehand and somehow found a fella to bring along. (Ok, I can't really say somehow...we had Sara "the manizer" along with us! Of course there would be a fella!) The performance was at The Castle Amphitheater in Provo. Parking is at the bottom of the hill and then you walk a little trail to get up there. There were trees and a cobblestone path! I felt we might really be going to Dracula's Castle!

This is a picture of the actual Dracula's Castle...not The Castle Amphitheater in Provo :)

Dracula's Castle in Transylvania (I visited last summer in Romania. One of my favorite places we went to!)

It was dark, so I couldn't really tell what the building was, but we went past the amphitheater and into a castle-looking room. It was a small venue - holding 50-100 people maybe? And the performance was (again) fantastic and made me jump a few times! I wish I could describe it, but I had never seen anything like it before!

Just having some fun before it started :)

You should go and see it for yourself! You can purchase tickets here. Oh, also I saw Stephanie Nielson there! (Her brother is the director and her brother-in-law is an actor.) I really enjoy reading her blog and her sister's blog. They are both very positive and inspiring. And for some reason when you know about someone (and look up to them) but don't know them, it's a exciting to see them! They're famous to me!

Click here to find out the history behind Bran Castle or Dracula's Castle.

Simple Things

2010-10-23T08:59:00.001-06:00

Today I left work early. Actually it wasn't early....I left work on time. I pulled into my driveway before 3:30. That's rarity. (Haha! I typed "rarity" wrong and it was underlined in red. My thought was "what a shame that's not a real word!" Don't worry, folks. It is a real word! You just have to spell it correctly!)

Anyway, back to the story. (Was there a story?) Ahem. I wouldn't consider myself an overachiever (is it really spelled like that? It doesn't have a red squiggly line...hmmm...). As I was saying! I'm not an overachiever. I'm just slow. It's okay. I've come to realize this and accept that's just who I am. It's fine. But it can be a little exhausting!

I'm learning that teaching doesn't come naturally to me. Because it was something that I feel I was absolutely guided into doing, I figured it'd be something that would be easy for me. Well, it isn't. I'm not organized like I need to be. I don't work quickly like I should. I can easily spend 12-14 hours at school and wonder what I accomplished.

This rant of mine today actually has nothing to do with work or working hours and hours on end. Moving on.

Because I got home at such a great time, I got so excited to get some things done I've been meaning to do for a while! I just cozied up in my bed and relaxed. I googled "cute lamp shades" and found what I was looking for! It was at IKEA.

It was 4 pm on a Friday. I choose to avoid I-15 and take Wasatch Blvd. Probably the best decision I've made in a while! It was breathtaking! I had no idea that SLC Fall was so gorgeous! (I love finding things I love about this city. It helps.) Not only was the scenery stunning (I'm really sorry I didn't have my camera), but there was no traffic, and I was car-dancing to my "let's dance" playlist! For much of the drive I think I was actually driving UNDER the speed limit (another rarity for me!). As I started to get more into houses and out of the mountain part of the drive, I guess I really got into my music and didn't realize how fast I was going! I was coming to an intersection that had a raised sidewalk and BAM! (Don't worry, I didn't hit anyone!) I pretty much jumped the bump and if I didn't have my seatbelt on I would have easily hit my head on the ceiling of my car! I laughed and laughed! Instantly I thought of my dad saying something about hot-roding.

I made it to IKEA and found the wonderful lampshade for a very decent price. After checkout I grabbed a sweet roll and went on my way, excited to attach the shade to the lamp I bought at a killer deal for $2 at DI. My dresser is complete!

Colors

2010-10-23T08:58:00.001-06:00

I love Fall. It is my season of choice (although spring is a close second).

I also love color. That's why I painted an old, boring dresser (bought at a trading post for a deal....and it was already sanded for me!).

POST EDIT:

I realized after I got a comment from my cousin on this post that I forgot to put in the pictures I have of fall! (The first line I wrote was that I love fall....hello!)

2010-09-18T11:17:00.001-06:00

This morning my dear friend Camille took me out for a beautiful drive up Emigration Canyon. The scenery is spectacular! I love fall!

2010-09-18T11:12:00.001-06:00

Celebrate Fall!

Found It....

2010-09-16T21:55:00.000-06:00

sort of...

When I Get Where I'm Going.

I like this song. It doesn't really say what I'm wanting to say right now....just the title. I've really got to remember the bigger goal. Someday I'm going to get where I'm goin. And it will be wonderful.

BAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

2010-09-16T20:40:00.000-06:00

I just had to get that out. I don't know what's wrong with me, but it's wrong....emotions are so funny, aren't they? They just come and are sometimes very unwelcome. It seems like especially then, when they're unwelcome, that it's the hardest to move away from.

I wish I knew some kind of poem or song that explained it all. I'm sure I could find a Brad Paisley song....I think he's so great. I've never been much into country....I don't mind it, but I usually don't love it. I definitely never had a favorite country artist....until I discovered Brad. At first it was just here and there. Actually whenever I was in a friend's car or scanning the stations and I liked a country song, I would ask "who is this?" The answer was always Brad Paisley. I love the sound of his voice.

I've never been good at listening to lyrics. I like the beat, harmony, and the sound of a singer's voice, but lyris would go in and out like nothin'. But Mr. Paisley, I can't help but not only hear your lyrics, but they speak to me! It's like a church talk that is written by the spirit and you realize it was just for you! I think Brad Paisley is so real! And somehow he understands the woman and the man!

Please don't respond by writing anything that would make me not like Brad Paisley. I don't want to know anything bad about him. I just want to believe what I believe.

And there's the end of a rant that makes no sense at all, but it sure felt good to get out.

Time to Let Go

2010-09-13T22:51:00.001-06:00

My six-year-old nephew, Lochlyn, slept over the other night. We played Monopoly on my bed because my roommate had people over. So I was moving my pillows and such when he asks, "Misty, why do you still sleep with Bear?"

For some reason this is the first time it really struck me how, I don't know...kind of immature? young? silly? .... it is that I have a stuffed animal on my bed. I'm turning 27 in a few days. I just have to laugh! When I left on my mission, I wondered if I should take the bear. It just crossed my mind, and I quickly dismissed it. I'm not totally attached to the little guy...I don't HAVE to have him to sleep. In fact, he rarely sleeps on my bed at all. But when Loch asked me that, I wondered if it was time I should throw him out. It surprised me that I felt very strongly that I couldn't do that! Give him to a niece or nephew? Naw, they wouldn't love him or appreciate him like I do! Put him in storage? What good would he do there?

So he still sits on my bed...I should probably start hiding him behind the pillows...just so no one asks anymore questions. hee hee!

Bear - Looking right at home

Bear and I share a lot of fond memories together. I got him on my 16th birthday from Aaron Cox, on my 16th birthday, and on my very first date. We didn't have a thing for each other. My friends and his friends were just beginning to do things together. What a sweet guy to bring me this very cuddly bear (as well as flowers and a necklace!) I haven't had many gifts from a fella that competes actually. (Hmm...I wonder if he's still single...) :-)

When my oldest nephew, Easton, was about 5 or 6, he tried to not only steal Bear from me, but rename him Beary! What?!?! I would hear none of that! He's mine and his name is simply Bear!

Bear is the perfect size to wrap my arms around and snuggle to sleep. Oh I love to snuggle and cuddle! Probably because of Bear! He doesn't wiggle and move around. He stays right where I put him! :) He came with me to St. George when I attended Dixie State College my freshman year. He stayed with me in Cedar City at Aunt Kay and Uncle Rob's as I worked to save money for Fiji and New Zealand. He moved with me to Curtis' house with some great roommates as I attended Southern Utah University. He waited for me to return from the Massachusetts Boston Mission. He never wavered. He stayed right where I left him. He moved with me up to Logan, first in the Garden Court Apartments where he patiently waited for me to really return from the mission. (It was a really hard adjustment being home!) He waited while I returned to Boston for the summer, and we moved into the Logan house and we had THE BEST ending of a college career! He moved all around the Salt Lake valley in these last 8 months with me....from Millcreek to West Jordan then to storage again while I ditched him for Canada. Yet again I returned, moved to a different place in Millcreek, and now in Cottonwood Heights, and Bear just follows me, no questions asked.

Alright, so I might be a little too attached. Yikes! I'm turning 27 and I still have a stuffed animal! I can't help but giggle a little!

My name is Misty. I'm almost 27. And I need a stuffed animal to cuddle with.

One Week Down....All Are Alive

2010-08-28T16:09:00.001-06:00

10-14 hour days isn't normal for me. Remember how all of July I did nothing? There were some fun activities, but as far as any kind of work, I did nothing. I did run back then though. Anyway, I'm not exhausted like I thought I would be. I did need a nap on Friday before a fun family BBQ, and when I got home, I absolutely crashed! I feel good though. As long as I'm in bed by 10 on weekdays :)

The beginning of the week was rough, but it ended well. I'm still not organized or prepared like I need to be, and I hope to get at least Monday planned before Monday comes! But if it just means planning one day at a time, I think I can do it.

I love teaching! I may not be the best teacher ever, but I have the best students ever! Being with the students and seeing them excited to learn and want more is exciting to me. Seeing things work out after I was the one in charge of it is exciting as well! Haha! The first year is the hardest, right?

(My poor mom got the worst of me this week. Sorry Mom! You just called at the wrong time. But I do appreciate the call, more than you know actually! Thanks for holding my hand already this year! It was so good to see you and Dad after this week! I love you both!!!!!!)

Aug. 23, 2010: My Last First Day of the First Day of School of my First Full Year

2010-08-24T23:13:00.001-06:00

Defiant Students. Mixed-up Schedule. Upset Parent. Tears. Confused Paras. New Bus Drivers. New IEPs. Awake by 5 am. At work for 13 1/2 hours. Still Not Ready.

It was about 6:30 this morning as I was driving toward the mountains on the West. I saw something just like this. The moon sneaking behind the mountains as morning was coming. When I left work and started to drive home toward the mountains on the East, this is what I saw (about 8:15 pm). The moon is peeking up about the mountains!

This is my First Day of School 2010 Picture....whoops!

Hello Miss Heaton

Back to School! Back to School!

2010-08-22T21:24:00.000-06:00

I was talking to my dad tonight about how NOT ready I was for school to start tomorrow! I am more nervous starting this fall than I was being thrown in last January! He said, "That's funny because we remember when you went to kindergarten. There wasn't any coaxing needed at all. That little girl just walked right in and was ready to go. Mom didn't need to hold her hand!" To which I replied "I need her to hold my hand now!"

I don't remember my first day of kindergarten, but I do remember what kind of kid I was. I loved new things! I wasn't shy and I loved making friends! I absolutely knew who I was and what my purpose was.

I'm regressing. I'm shy and insecure and getting more and more scared of new situations! Come back Kindergarten Misty, come back! I need you now. Either come back or I'm going to tell on you....MOMMY!

Bloom Where You're Planted

2010-08-20T01:15:00.001-06:00

The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything.

TEN YEARS FROM NOW...

2010-08-15T11:49:00.002-06:00

Misty Heaton
Career Guidance
First Period

(This is a required paper written my sophmore year of high school in Mark Hansen's class. I am retyping it exactly as I wrote it 10 years ago.)

My life, wow! What a thing to write about. Never in the world would I imagine my life would have ended up like this. Ten years ago at age sixteen, I thought I'd turn out to be something big. Something like a modern-day working woman, just getting the job done. Maybe something like a big executive in New York, or a Marine Biologist swimming with the dolphins at Sea World. Never like this, though. I guess I always wanted to be a mom, but I never thought it'd be like this.

(Just after this first paragraph I have several thoughts. First, that I'm writing the paper as if I'm reflecting back on the last ten years of life, rather than saying how I want my life to be from my 16 year-old perspective. That's kind of cool because that would be me right now! Also, I never wanted to be "something big". I must have written that to make the paper sound better. Last, I can't believe that I thought 26 was old! That I would have been a big executive! Haha! That at 26 life would have been totally figured out! Yeah right! I guess some people might have things figured out much more than I do, but still...I think Misty at 16 is funny!)

Let me tell you what my life is like. I'm twenty-six and loving life. I got married in the Mesa Temple (remember this!) for all eternity to my wonderful husband at age twenty-three. (Yes he waited for me to go on my mission to Australia.) By our one-year anniversary, we had a one-month baby boy, who now is a two-year-old big brother. He loves his little sister. I am a stay-at-home mom, and I love it. How did I get here? Now that's a story all in it's self. We have to go back about ten years.

(The underlined portions are for you, the reader, to remember because later on in the story there's a switch-up! At the time I wrote this until I actually went through the temple before my mission, I never wanted to get married in the Manti Temple because everyone from Emery County did. I didn't want to be like everyone else. Well, ever since I went to my dear cousin Ashley's sealing, I don't want to get married anywhere else. I love that temple! Also, I still want to have a baby by my one-year wedding anniversary :) hehe! Call me crazy!)

Ten years ago, I was sixteen years old. Must I say more? I loved who I was, where I was at, what I was doing; I loved my life. Boys, friends, family, the phone, and shopping are just a few examples of what my life was. Oh, and let's not forget school! Now don't get me wrong. My life wasn't perfect, but my biggest problems were school, boys, friends, and family. School because of homework, boys because of the broken hearts, friends because of the stupid girl fights (thank goodness for friends who were peacemakers) and family when we just got sick of each other at times.

My first year of dating was lots of fun, and of course really crazy. I had no idea how it would be. Most of my dates were dances, lots of fun. My senior year was probably my greatest year. There weren't really any cliches that year. Of course there was the popular groups, but our whole class got along, and knew each other pretty well.

After I graduated, I went on to Rick's College in Idaho for two years. (That tells you something if I called it Ricks! Now it's BYU-I. And I don't remember wanting to ever go there for school. I guess I did!)  I majored in Auto Mechanics and music. I went on to BYU for one year to expand my music major. (I obviously had no clue how long a college degree would really take. And especially if I really did auto mechanics and music! Ha!) I was lucky enough to have the best music teacher in Utah. (I really did have the best piano teacher growing up! I love you Elise!)  I then went on a mission at age twenty-one and had the greatest spiritual experiences there. The Australian people are the most wonderful people I've ever met. I got to know more about myself, and I learned how to teach and most of all, be taught. They taught me the more in a year and a half, than anyone ever has. That's when I decided that I was going to marry someone from Australia. (I'm pretty impressed with guessing how a mission really would be! Except it's the people in Massachusetts who are the greatest people on earth!)

A year and a half later, I came home. I found a job working in a mechanic shop. I restored old cars. It was the job that I always wanted. It was what I always wanted to do. (I'm not repetitive at all, at all!)  One day, a man with an Australian accent came in. I was so excited to hear that accent again! He wanted me to restore his 1974 Plymouth Duster. (That's the car I had for most of hight school). He came to "check on his car" every day until I was finished, and while he "checked" on his car, we talked about Australia. He came here when he was seventeen years old as an exchanged student and loved it so much that he decided to go to college here, too. Anyway, my story. (I tend to get side tracked when I start talking about him.) (And I didn't realize how much I like to use parenthesis! 10 years ago, and now!) The day he picked up his car, he asked me out on a date. That date was the best date I've ever been on. That is when we both realized that we were meant to be together for all eternity. (ON THE FIRST DATE, MISTY? REALLY? You were one of THOSE girls?!?!)  We got married three months later (yikes!) in the Sydney, Australia Temple. (Here's the little switch-up. Earlier I wrote that he waited for me and we got married in Mesa. Haha!)

We lived in Australia for two years where my son was born, and then we moved back to Utah. My husband trains horses and it's great to watch him out there doing what he loves to do.  I still restore cars, but only in my spare time. My biggest and most important job is raising my two beautiful children, so that they know their mother is always there for them when they need me. My favorite hobby is still to play the piano. That's another dream that came true for me. The day we moved into our house in Utah, my husband surprised me with a grand piano. I was in so much shock, that I burst into tears. I've always said that some day I was going to have a grand piano in my own house, and I do.

(Here's the start of a random concluding paragraph. It's like I didn't have EVERYTHING I wanted yet, so I had to squeeze it all in at the end!)

Another one of my favorite things is to go ride horses.  I always wanted to have horses and here I am. The best time to ride is at sunset; just my husband and me. What a wonderful life I have, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Like I said, ten years ago, I never could have imagined such a great life, and here I am.

In a Matter of Minutes

2010-08-14T20:09:00.005-06:00

Wow am I so glad that Lochlyn wanted to go to the movie with me last night! It ended up being a fun-filled night, with lots of laughs! This boy is HILARIOUS! So, so funny! Truly in the time it took me to drive from his house in West Jordan to Evergreen Jr. High (a movie under the stars!), these are the funny things that were said by this 6 year-old:

Me: How did you get to be so smart?

Lochlyn: Well I just got smart. My brain used to be 100% crazy but now it is all smart and only 10% crazy.

Lochlyn: Misty, when I grow up I want to be strong enough to lift a tractor. Or a port-o-potty.

Lochlyn: Yeah, I am going to college. Boss college. And when I'm the boss I will give some of my workers a raise and some of them I won't.

Me: How will you decide who gets a raise?

Lochlyn: Misty, I will give the raise to the workers who are working and not being lazy.

Lochlyn: I have a crazy virus that made me push people in Kindergarten. I think if we can go to the water park I can get the virus to wash down the drain.

Oh I can't even handle it! He is so stinking funny! Another thing that I was reminded of...The first weekend in August was a big family reunion that we have every year. He came a day early with me and his parents came later. That first day he played and played hard! It is so much fun to see all the great-grandkids making friends with each other and just loving being together. Well, it was about 9 at night and I see Lochlyn walking to the cabin. "Lochlyn, where are you going?" "Misty, I played so much today my head is crazy. I need some sleep!"

After the movie (we met Desi and Lexi there!), we went to pick up some of Lexi's things and the three of us (Lochlyn, Lexi, and I) headed to my place for the first sleepover in my new place! We stayed up until 1 am jumping on the love sac and having pillow fights! I love being an aunt! And after all my crying last night about friends, it's a good thing it didn't work out, because we had a blast!

Just look at that face! Oh that boy!

This is Lexi showing us some of the cool things in her room while
her mom got her all packed up! She is also hilarious!

Warning: Friends are People Too

2010-08-13T19:55:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I wish friends were perfect. You know, like me! Alright, alright I'm not perfect. At all. Okay, I'm not even close. By writing this it, I am making an official "I'm a hypocrite" documentation about myself. That's okay, because Misty is People too and sometimes I just need to vent.

One of the hardest things for me is to make plans with someone and then they fall through last minute. As mentioned above, this makes me a hypocrite because I also make plans with people and then bail. I think that's why facebook put a "maybe" option for attending events. I think that's why for some people (including me at times) it's so hard to commit to things because they (and I) would rather not commit than say they're going to do something and not do it. Which is worse? I don't know.

I remember a lesson I heard in relief society in the Revere Ward. It was on integrity. The teacher gave the example of her sister who will never say she is going to do something unless she really means it and does it. She is reliable. Everyone can count on her to do what she says she is going to do. I try to hold to that philosophy, but sometimes I forget. But I want to be able to be someone that others can trust, so that's something I'm working on.

I really do have the very BEST OF THE BEST as far as friends and family goes. What is it though about making plans and being left to yourself at the last minute that is so disappointing and discouraging? In my self-pity I think it would be easier to just not have friends at all. Then I would know that every Friday night I can do my own thing and not ever be disappointed. And then reality hits and I realize that one of the worst feelings is loneliness! I'd rather be occasionally disappointed and realize that friends are people too and be able to keep those awesome friends (if they'll still want to be my friends as I wallow in my selfishness and feel bad for myself) than not have these amazing people in my life and be lonely forever.

I am a people person. I love people. I love to have people around. One of the things I never felt on my mission was a need for space, or a need for my own time. I rarely get sick of people. I don't mind doing things on my own. I am very content with myself, I would say. I don't mind going to the movies by myself (in fact, I think everyone should try it!). But I sure do love people. The last guy I dated didn't need his own space either, and I can't tell you how much I loved that! I loved having someone to do things with ALL OF THE TIME! Maybe that's why I'm feeling especially disappointed...I'm used to having someone around to do things with all of the time. Marriage really must be blissful!

Wow, how did this turn to marriage? Oh, it's because I'm single and I don't think about anything else. Ha! Just kidding. Cough. Cough. Mostly. Ahem.

Wow, just writing this really did help me. Thank you, Blog. I am feeling much better! I think I'm going to steal my nephew away and make him come with me to the movie! At least he doesn't have much of a choice! :) mwa ha ha!

My Brothers Can Beat Up Your Brothers

2010-08-12T00:19:00.000-06:00

This is what I have been missing. I have felt for a long time so disconnected with my family. Even if we got together and had a great time, I felt like something was missing. Serving really is the key for me! I love to help!

I have had the opportunity to give the way I can give to my brothers and their families. Is it selfish to want to do things for other people because it makes me feel better? Okay, that's not the whole reason, but goodness, I love my family!

They have been so great and have helped me without question...well, my whole life, let's be honest, but especially since I've moved to Salt Lake City. Can I store my stuff at your house? Can you help me move my stuff? Can you help me move my stuff again? Can I borrow the trailer to get a couch? What's wrong with my car? Can you fix it? Can I steal your kid for the day/weekend? Will you help me supervise while I have all the kids? Will you help me move yet again? Will you help me get this big barber chair out of my car? (That's right, a BARBER CHAIR! Are you jealous? You should be! It's awesome!) Will you help me choose paint and make decisions for me? Will you please name your kid what I choose? (hee hee!)

And you know, all except for the baby naming (it might happen....he hasn't come out yet!), they have done everything I have asked of them! I love them! They are the best! I am so grateful for them and hope to be able to show them and give to them in every way I can!

2010-08-04T20:54:00.001-06:00

Have you ever seen a rainbow in a sunset? I just did! I love Utah sunsets!

2010-07-29T01:16:00.004-06:00

I saw these fellas on the freeway and really laughed outloud at the one on the back! I had to take a picture when we got off at the same exit. Im not exactly why it is so funny... Maybe because the guy back is holding on for dear life? It looks really awkward the way he's leaning in and his arms are all up in the driver's armpits. Does anyone else see how this is funny?

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This Is What Summer is All About.

2010-07-28T01:29:00.001-06:00

I had one of the best days this summer so far by...ahem

...spending hours in the sun and water park with the best nieces and nephews ever (thanks Desi and Bre!),

eating at In-N-Out,

getting new glasses for a wicked good deal, going to the movie under the stars at the capital with one of my best buds in the world, Kim,

and fav. little bro (he's my only little bro...hee hee), sis-in-law, and niece, and feeling the sun sink into my skin (opps, not enough sunscreen!) as we lay on the grass eating popcorn and cherries.

I treasure days like this! (I also really like long, involved, run-on sentences.)

The above statement was also a facebook status on Thursday JULY 22. Gosh, what would I do without being able to tell the facebook world about myself? (Don't worry, people commented on that one! Ha!)

Anyway, I wanted to post pictures from that awesome day!

The Funny Paper Has Been Cancelled.

2010-07-28T00:43:00.002-06:00

"you know how you get so hungry you could eat a horse, and then you still starve because after one bite you realize you don't even like horse? I hate it when that happens"

So I came up with this all by myself when I was hungry for lunch today, and I thought it was so stinking hilarious (in a Jack Handy sort of way) that I posted it as my facebook status and just waited for all the comments to come rolling in! After several hours, one nice friend "liked" the status.

Sometimes I wonder if anyone has a sense of humor these day! How did you not find that so funny and not want to ask what movie or book it's from so I could then comment that I made it up on my own?

Bubbles and Oreos

2010-07-28T00:30:00.008-06:00

Do you know what working out with a sunburned back does? I mean, besides the irritation of a sports bra. Well I didn't know until tonight! It's pretty cool actually! You know how when you work out you sweat? Well, most of you probably sweat. I glisten. Anyway, this is my theory, and I believe it to be correct. When you get sunburned enough to blister it kills at least the top layer of your skin, right? I wasn't blistering yet, but I knew it was bad enough to. So when you workout and sweat (or glisten in my case, as established earlier), the sweat comes out of your pores through all the layers of your skin, but since you have dead skin on the top, the sweat doesn't come through that layer. Instead the dead, bright, red skin bubbles! It bubbles! I'm sorry if this is too scandalous for you, but I thought a picture would add to the overall post. Unfortunately you can't see the bubbles very well, but you get the idea.

And while I'm on the topic of working out, I have to say that a big turning point came about today! A BIG ONE I TELL YA! I promised myself that I would workout everyday this week (M-F anyway). I haven't made any food changes or promises because normally when I workout, I just naturally eat less and healthier. I don't like to feel like I have to restrict myself because I don't do well at saying I can't have something because it's all I can think about and I usually end up bingeing. I haven't had much of an appetite this last month though for some reason. It could be a little bit of the s word...(stress), but at any rate, I have only gone grocery shopping once (for milk, cereal, and yogurt, oh and Oreos of course!) and gotten one bountiful basket since I've been back in the States. That's unusual for me. Both the lack of appetite and the lack of grocery store visits.

So anyway, I am an Oreo lover. A lover of Oreos! Oreos: Milk and Misty's Favorite Cookie! It's true! I have a package in my cupboard (from the previously mentioned shopping). I usually do. These Oreos sure have lasted a long time though. I've had them for almost a month actually. Weird. Anyway, I decided tonight, that I needed to eat Oreos. However, I hadn't done any kind of workout yet. So I thought they'd taste much better after a workout rather than before. I went and did a little workout, got the bubbly skin, felt thirsty, drank mucho agua, and....and Oreos didn't sound good to me at all!

WHAAA??? I choose delicious fresh cherries.....over Oreos tonight! It's a BIG NIGHT TONIGHT! A BIG NIGHT to be SKINNY!!! (Bah ha! I just crack myself up.)

So I found this picture and had to post it. Why would I post the ugliest picture of myself I could find for my good friends to see? (And my poor friend there! She would kill me, I'm sure! We just won't tell her!) Because even if I have to sacrifice myself (and a good friend), I love to make you laugh! You should be on the floor rolling at this moment! As you can see, I was fat and happy on the mission. Maybe a little too fat. Maybe a little too happy. But oh, how I love my Oreos!

Discovering Me

2010-07-26T18:54:00.003-06:00

Things about me that I'm just now realizing:

I love, love, love the sky.

I'm not as spontaneous as I'd like to think I am. Change is kind of hard for me, especially when I don't want the change.

I have a weird obsession with pregnant ladies' bellies. I just can't stop starring at that cute belly and I always want to touch them. (I also like to touch things. It just helps me to touch things that I'm enthralled with. I don't know. Weird, I know.) I think I have only touched one pregnant belly in my life. I'm sure women don't like people to come up and touch their belly. I know I don't. There was a counselor at the camp I worked at a long time ago and she was a belly rubber. She was so happy and friendly and would put one arm around your shoulder and rub your belly with her other hand. If she weren't so nice and innocent, I would have thought she was creepy. It's a little uncomfortable, no matter how friendly you are! Therefore, I haven't touched many bellies...even my sisters-in-law or cousins. But I always want to.

I love to be with friends. I'm kind of shy around groups of people I don't know, especially when I'm by myself, but when I'm with my friends I love to show off and be silly.

I love people in my life. I think about them all the time, but I think I finally realized today that they have no idea how much I really care about them and think about them and pray for them because I haven't been very good at keeping in touch. I will change that.

I really do love to do. Play, workout, camp, hike, mountain bike, swim, volleyball. You know, just be active. I love to be active. I will do that more.

I love traveling, but the reasons I love it are changing. I don't know how to explain this one, but I realized that when I went to Europe last year. Europe was amazing and I loved it, but I came back feeling unfulfilled. I think it felt a little selfish. Going to Canada in June didn't feel selfish, but I had a purpose behind going. So I think I need a purpose to travel-maybe to go see a friend or volunteer or something! (And when I speak of traveling here, I mostly mean leaving the country and probably spending a lot of money on a plane ticket.)

This may come as a shock to some, and others would expect nothing less, but I love to be naked. I always giggle like I'm doing something sneaky. It's not like I run around the house naked. I almost always have at least my underwear on. :) Have you ever been skinny dipping? I have.

On that same note, I love my small-ish chest. I wish it were smaller. I read a great quote today, and I thought of me.

"I marvel at a six-foot tall woman in stilettos, a big bottom woman in a curve hugging skirt, a flat chested woman in a tight, low-cut t-shirt. When a woman embraces her imperfections, they can become her greatest strengths, definers of her character and spirit." Nina Garcia's book.

Ok, so I didn't think of me in the way that I have embraced my imperfections, I'm getting there...slowly... I don't know why I thought of me because I don't wear stilettos (I'm not even close to six feet), I don't wear curve hugging skirts (but I do love skirts -oh another thing I've just discovered!), and I don't think of myself as having a big bottom so much as having big hips and thighs. And I'm not quite flat-chested (although I would love that) and I don't wear tight, low-cut shirts. Alright, so it has nothing to do with me right now....I'm just coveting the flat-chested woman! (Don't worry, even if I had a flat chest, I wouldn't ever wear a tight, low-cut shirt!) My mom and most of my friends think it's so weird that I like my smaller chest and want an even smaller one. Oh, this is why I thought of me.....drum roll.....because most women see a small chest as an imperfection, and I think it is wonderful! Anyway, it doesn't really matter. In my mind it all makes sense, and I liked the quote.

2010-07-26T18:46:00.001-06:00

Hiking with Kim up Millcreek Canyon

The Craziest Day at School So Far

2010-05-04T21:09:00.001-06:00

There have been quite a few crazy things that have happened in these few short months I've been teaching special ed. Most of them had nothing to do with the classroom. One day I was at a professional development meeting at the district office. Well, that morning a girl was hit by a car as she was walking to school. She will have to relearn how to walk and talk (if there is that chance again!) A couple of days later, a 7th grade boy was found by his older brother in their home. He tried to hang himself. Last I heard, he is still alive but basically living by machines. On Friday of that same week, there was a school-wide lock-down because a high school boy was dumped by his jr. high girlfriend and went crazy. Wait....that either happened that Friday or a boy from the Alternative High School attacked one of his teachers and escaped the school and was caught a block from our school. Both of the incidents happened....I just don't remember which one happened that same week. Anyway, that was one crazy week!

Well, today we were playing softball and for some reason one of my students got angry and pretended to go after the pitcher with the bat (it was one of those big plastic bats...but still!). Anyway, he threw the bat and ended up leaving school property. I called my aid to meet the rest of the students as they went in and went after the runaway and called for backup. Neither he nor the Assistant Principal could talk him into coming back. He was just hanging by the fence wanting a cop to come. Well, he came and hand-cuffed him (mostly for shock value). Well, it got to me! I wanted to cry! I wish people didn't make dumb choices! To top the day off, some lady cut me off and then flipped me off. GRRR!!!

Needless to say, I was a little fired up today and started looking for small-town job opportunities. I didn't find anything, but I finally went and explored the little walkway along the jordan river. I got some steam off by running and walking. Then I was able to go home and make a smoothie from yummy fresh fruits and veggies and make an artichoke. I haven't had a real artichoke since I was a young tike! It was so good!

So tomorrow's going to be alright....right? RIGHT? Yeah, it is. I think I just need to read my scriptures and then everythin's gonna be alright!

Happiness

2010-04-17T21:26:00.001-06:00

I am happy! Is there any feeling that can replace this? Nothing. Nothing at all. Happiness does take work, but it's amazing at how adjusting just a few things, prioritizing, and fine-tuning if you will makes all the difference. I believe that I am a happy person overall. I think I'm easy to please and simple. My happiness (like everyone else, I believe) does have degrees though. And my degree of happiness has recently increased. There are several reasons for this:

1. I have been making a greater and conscience effort to have 3 spiritual experiences everyday (study from the scriptures daily, and pray morning and night). I haven't been perfect, but what a difference that has made! I know it doesn't sound like much, but it has changed me. I believe that because of that, I have been able to make the other adjustments that are contributing to my happiness.

2.I have finally gotten motivation to workout. I love working out! I love doing it! I love it afterward (that "I'm sweaty, exhausted, and I feel great" kind of thing)! And I love the results! But if I don't have the motivation, I don't have anything! Well, I've been motivated...what a blessing!

3. I have been putting a greater importance on family and friends. I called one of my kindred spirit sisters, Daniela. What a wonderful angel God placed in my life! Just for the heck of it, I visited one of my good friends and former mission companion, Sara Payne in Provo. We just caught up for a hour or two in the park. I have been chatting a little more with one of my favorite people and cousin, Ashley. I have visited Dan and Jen a couple of times this week. Once I biked and once I ran even! My great former roommate from Cedar City, Melanie, came up for a visit of all her SLC friends and we had dinner and she slept over! Oh my goodness those were the day! I just love that girl! I also had a sleepover with my niece, Lexi last night and we got to play for most of the day today. I get to visit my childhood best friend and her little family next weekend in Tabiona! One day I will catch up with my dear friend Sarah Mullaly...we are in the planning stages :) I'm getting to do a little more spontaneous things that I have always pictured myself doing (like random or planned visits! I just love reunions!). Also, I get to go to church with Easton tomorrow. He has met with the missionaries a couple of times, and they committed him to go to church. I live right by his church, so I'm going with!

4. I have goals and plans for my money. I know when and how I'm going to get out of debt. I feel like I've had a total money makeover (haha! I get it now, Dave Ramsey!). Just like all the other areas, I'm not perfect, but I have a great plan and I'm getting gazelle intensity! I never want to use a credit card again, be making car payments again, or be in debt again! I want to pay for my own wedding.

5. Speaking of managing money well, I am dating a guy who is really amazing! (He's the one who has helped me SO MUCH in the money area). He is so good at talking with me....you know...REALLY talking! I have found from past relationships that that is a MUST for me! (Who's surprised about that one? HA!) He is level-headed and so easy-going that my drama (rare, but true) disappears pretty quickly. He likes to hold my hand and cuddle and kiss. I love that. His family is really important to him, he treats his mom very well, and he is so great with kids! He put Lexi to sleep last night over video chat! Oh, so cute! He loves volleyball (HELLO!) and is good at volleyball, he like to take little trips, he likes to do stuff, and he's willing to try new stuff with me. I just really like him a lot.

6. I feel that I have always been close to my parents. My dad is so good at calling and texting and keeping all the kids "in the know" with the goings on of the family. Well, my mom and I recently decided to work on our relationship and other things. We have been emailing almost daily, and I just love it! It reminds me of the mission-days and how close I felt to her (BECAUSE we wrote to each other). I really have the best parents ever! They are so good and deserve the world! That's a big reason I want to pay for my wedding...they have given me SO MUCH and I feel like in this way at least, I can repay them!

7. I am working in the field I have been going to school for years to get into, and I love it!!! What a great thing to be doing what you love to do!

And there you have it. My happiness in a nutshell. And when it all comes down to it, I know that it is all because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know it's all because of the love Heavenly Father and Christ have for me. This love is for everyone, and I think that's why when the gospel is placed in the center (when Christ is in the center) of my life, then I am able to love everyone in a greater capacity. This is why I had to post after about a year and a half since my last blog post. I have to remember what it feels like and how it feels when I'm doing the things I should be doing.

I'm Back!

2008-10-14T22:53:00.000-06:00

Well, after a 3 month absence from posting on my blog, I'm starting afresh! I have some great inspirations who help encourage me to keep this going! Thanks Ellen, Ashley, and Andrea especially for being great examples-in the blogging world and otherwise!

Quick overview of the last 3 months:

So I did quench my craving (can I say that?) for that muffin.. Thanks to Rufus at work! Oh, what a great guy! I was showing them the picture I posted on my blog and talked about how much I was craving it and told him that since he lives in Woburn, he should bring me one in! Lo and behold, here comes Michael Rufus Tramonte with a dozen muffins! (Before I left, I bought about a dozen more for the Revere Relief Society Saturday breakfast, and then some for myself and Sheila of course!)

So very many wonderful things this summer! Nantucket with Ellen, Leah, Alisha, and Sarah (great and wonderful trip! I'll have to link this to Ellen's post (I think....can you do that?)

Rockport, Mass., Ogunquit, Maine -first time to Maine! Loved it! The liquid fireworks at Jordan Furniture in Reading, MA (also watched the new Batman movie at the IMAX theater)

We had fun little parties at Harvard Medical School (oh! How I miss my friends there!) I went back to my beloved Gardner to see the first people from my mission! And I got to go to three departing missionary testimony meetings! Did you know that there's a 24 hour post office in Dorchester too? I had no idea! Thank goodness though because it took me all night to pack and then I had to mail some stuff home before my 6 AM flight! So many wonderful people this summer! A huge thanks to Sheila too! I love her! She was/is a huge blessing to me!

Now I'm back in Logan at Utah State and going strong! I'm living in a cute little house a couple of blocks and a huge hill from campus with my dear Amy Washburn-a lovely mission friend....I think she might even be available if you know anyone...ahem. I am in my Senior Year (yay! I'm going to make it!) and I'm in the Spec ial Ed program with a Severe emphasis. I have a wicked cool ward, which keeps me social and busy as I'm in the R.S. Presidency, I'm also in the IWA Presidency, which I love! It's like Young Women's in College. There are stellar girls in the SPED program with me, I work in the Sped Office so I'm getting to know some of the professors pretty well, and I am a little closer to my family (not thousands of miles...I kind of got in trouble for that this summer..hehe)! We had a fun MBM Retreat at the Ranch,

I had a sweet quarter-of-a-century birthday bash about a month ago-which was a blast...

A couple of us Sisters threw together the Officially Unofficialy MBM Reunion over General Conference Weekend at Neff's house...

We have sweet dinner parties...

And oh, did I mention my cute little house? :)

It turned winter after about just a week of fall.....it's warmed up a bit yesterday and today, but I'm just not ready for Fall to leave yet! (haha...get it?)

Right now, Jessica Elsey is visiting for a few days. (She was Washburn's comp. for almost a year!) She just got back about 2 weeks ago! It's like a mini reunion! We even got to share about our missions tonight at IWA (Institute Women's Association). I'll try to get some more pics up...I'm still trying to figure out my macbook...

Cravings...

2008-07-10T06:57:00.000-06:00

It is a Chocolate Dreme. I still haven't sunk my teeth into one of these since being back. You better believe I will dream about it until I do though.

The Next Few Days...

2008-07-09T14:35:00.000-06:00

Annete and Baby Budha (Karla)

Mmmm...Carne Asada

Jenny, me, little Alix, and Annie

I love the beach. Even at night in the dark, scary fog.

What was that?

What fun that was! Well, we woke up at 8:30 the next morning to catch the bus to catch the T to get down to the airport for Jenny to rent a car! We came right back home and slept!
That afternoon we visited with Irma Sanchez. What a wonderfully, sweet woman! She fed us a yummy appetizer (I love spanish food!). Then we went to Nely and Telma's for Erin's 3rd Birthday! Main Course-carne asada! Oh, it was so great to see all of them again!

Then, for dessert (Gabriela's famous flan AND cheesecake!) we visited la familia Parras. I just love that family! Amariani is like my little sister! I love her!

Afterward, at about 9:30 we were heading home, and I thought wait! We aren't missionaries anymore! We don't have to be home! Let's go to the beach! So we went to Revere Beach. It was so quiet and eerie. There was a thick fog setting in off the ocean. Jenny was talking on the phone when we pulled up, but I wasn't going to wait. I ran down to the water and realized how quiet and heavy it was. I ran back to her and we went back to the water together. (no, I'm not scared!)
At church the next day we went to 3 wards! First, the Somerville Spanish Branch, which I had never been to, then the Revere 1st Ward (Spanish, of course). In Revere, I made Jenny translate for me so I could bear my testimony! The Spirit was so strong the entire meeting. It was such a joy to have Ana Silvia, Minor, William, and Nestor there AND the Parras family came too! Annie said I made her cry. Alejandro said they will start going to church every week, and they are still planning on going to the temple. Gabriela and the kids are going back to Mexico the end of August probably, and Alejandro will join them a year later. I love that family! After Sacrament meeting, we zoomed to Roslindale to attend the Boston 1st Ward Relief Society. I had never been there before either, and we ate with Timna and Sam and their cute baby Joshua and visited a cute Dominican family!

All in all, it was one of the best weekends since my mission. Jenny drove me to the T station Monday morning and then drove to the airport and flew home. It was good to have a mission friend to wander around Boston again!

Finishing Up

2008-07-09T14:05:00.000-06:00

Now it is over...

The National Guard standing....guard...