So I got bangs!
On Tuesday, I was driving home from work and caught a glance at myself in the rearview and thought - I haven't done anything crazy with my hair in a long time. Maybe I'll get some bangs. Lo and behold, one of the girls from my branch posted in her facebook status that we should call if we wanted our hair did. So, I did and this is the result....
I have gotten tons of compliments on the bangs, but Mom is still adjusting. I definitely like the bangs! Dad says I look completely different and it's such a small thing. I'm excited because now I figure people will stop with the "you and your mom look like twins." We really don't, so this should help! Not that I'm offended to look like Mom, just that I like to be me!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
A little bit of Random
Some pics from my cell phone that just couldn't be kept to my self...
Enjoy!
Also, I have finally posted all of the pics from the New Orleans Thanksgiving Adventure...Check them out here and remember to turn on the captions by clicking on the little thought bubble in the bottom left corner of the slideshow
Enjoy!
Also, I have finally posted all of the pics from the New Orleans Thanksgiving Adventure...Check them out here and remember to turn on the captions by clicking on the little thought bubble in the bottom left corner of the slideshow
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
New Orleans Trip (Part 2)
To continue....
On Thursday I awoke to the sounds of one Elijah Garcia. Oh my goodness - a built in alarm clock with personality! Who could ask for more? :) The feasting began for us with a trip to Danny & Clyde's (a gas station) for Shrimp Po-boys. Mmmm! Delicious! Then, we feasted with the fam. I think that Thanksgiving should be called the Feast of Butter - because everything has butter. We enjoyed vegetable casserole, mirliton dressing (my favorite), cornbread dressing, fried turkey, carrot souffle, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, coconut pie, cheesecake, and I'm sure more but that's what I can remember. I was stuffed! We had planned to hit up some of the other places on our New Orleans eating list, but there was no way! I talked with Brandon (the best man) for a good while about watches and cars - his 2 loves. We were then sent on a run for more butter! (The salad needs more butter Mother!) I fell asleep on the couch watching "Clue." Good times.
On Friday, I was woken up by my alarm clock and to the lingering smell of deliciousness. I had some for breakfast - more mirliton dressing please! We then headed over to Covington to visit Pops and Nana for another Thanksgiving feast. Nana made turkey, dressing (my 2nd favorite), green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, smoked beef tenderloin, and cheesy cauliflower. Oh the joy of food! We ate and then walked over to see the status of construction on the new house. The house is awesome! It has a wonderful wrap-around porch, a huge family room, open kitchen, dining room and a master suite on the main floor that will eventually be surrounded by large windows and french doors. The upstairs has 2 large bedrooms and attached bathrooms for guests (um - me?). The property is all woodsy. Pops had the trees removed by crane to leave the smaller trees and brush. We took a walk through the woods to the Bayou. That was neat. We saw a snake. And I remember why I should never try to fix my hair in New Orleans because the humidity is my ever-triumphant foe! We went to Meg's Bridal Shower and I won the match game (matching French words to English - it wasn't really fair). Then, Em and I joined Meg and Helen, Cristina, Kate, and Ashley for a bachelorette party. Um, can we say uncomfortable? Yeah - Mormons don't really do these for a reason...Em and I then went on a quest for a new camera since her's was broken and met a nice man at Wal-Mart who let us have the doorbusters at 10pm!!! Holler! Mom stayed up late and made pralines and fell asleep while Aunt Rite working on Megan's dress. She awoke to the smell of Jambalaya and Aunt Rite still going. She didn't sleep! Crazy!
Well Saturday was a hurry hurry morning with everyone trying to get showered and ready for the wedding. We hurried, but somehow we were still the last ones out of the house. Part of the reason might have been the repeated calls for things forgotten. Anywho, we got on the road and then Mom remembered that she had promised Brandon a 1/4 of a pumpkin pie. He had asked for it because then it would mean that he had eaten a whole pie. He hugged her for it the night before and said - "Because your son would hug you for pumpkin pie." He knew how to get in her good graces! Well, because we had forgotten the pie, we hurried and turned around. We grabbed the pie and off we went, praying the whole time that we would make it. Well, they were running a little late and prayers were answered. We made it to Baton Rouge with time to spare and I didn't even go 100mph once!
Megan and Justin's wedding was awesome! It was so neat to see the entire Garcia family in the sealing room with them as they celebrated this happy occasion. Meg and Justin were so sweet and I'm so glad that we were able to be there for their special day. We then had a lunch catered by Aunt Becky and Uncle Kevin on last minute notice. It was good - there were cajun style hors d'oeuvres - mini meat and crawfish pies - and also the standards - quiche, roast beef sandwiches, veggie & fruit tray, and some chips. We took some pictures and then it was back to NOLA.
We stopped by Taco Tico on the way back. Why Taco Tico? Well because Mom had consumed numerous Chili Cheese Burritos whilst pregnant with me, so to this day I crave them! That and Taco Burgers. Are these really anything to gush about? Well, no, it's cheap Mexican food, but man I love me some Taco Tico.
After Taco Tico, Mom and I went to visit Grandma and Grandpa Sorensen. Uncle Faren and Aunt Cindy were also there. We kidded with Uncle Faren that we have to come to New Orleans to see him, even though they live less than 10 miles away from us! We talked and showed pics of Logan. Then it was off to the reception.
First though, we got a few emergency calls for music and food. We hurried and picked up some stuff that would be delicious covered in chocolate and I made a playlist for dancing. It was fun! There was wonderful food and it was great to see family and friends. Mom told Brandon that he owed me a dance for the pumpkin pie, but since he was off removing and replacing tires, the dance didn't happen....until after we had everything up and Brian played on his guitar while we danced. Wow! I'm that cool! We headed home and then Brandon, Kate and I went to see the new James Bond movie. I was very tired, but I managed to stay awake through the whole thing - barely. I went home and crashed and didn't wake up until the time we were supposed to leave on Sunday - hence, the leaving at 9:30am (see New Orleans Trip Part 1)
As you can tell, this trip was filled with food and fun, but mainly food! I would like to say that I was able to avoid gaining any weight, but with Butter Day and Grape Jelly's New Orleans-style buffet, I put on at least 5 lbs. No worries though - it's coming off this week in preparation for speaking in Stake Conference. I'm so nervous that food is the last thing I'm thinking of...well and nothing tastes quite as good as everything did last week.....
On Thursday I awoke to the sounds of one Elijah Garcia. Oh my goodness - a built in alarm clock with personality! Who could ask for more? :) The feasting began for us with a trip to Danny & Clyde's (a gas station) for Shrimp Po-boys. Mmmm! Delicious! Then, we feasted with the fam. I think that Thanksgiving should be called the Feast of Butter - because everything has butter. We enjoyed vegetable casserole, mirliton dressing (my favorite), cornbread dressing, fried turkey, carrot souffle, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, coconut pie, cheesecake, and I'm sure more but that's what I can remember. I was stuffed! We had planned to hit up some of the other places on our New Orleans eating list, but there was no way! I talked with Brandon (the best man) for a good while about watches and cars - his 2 loves. We were then sent on a run for more butter! (The salad needs more butter Mother!) I fell asleep on the couch watching "Clue." Good times.
On Friday, I was woken up by my alarm clock and to the lingering smell of deliciousness. I had some for breakfast - more mirliton dressing please! We then headed over to Covington to visit Pops and Nana for another Thanksgiving feast. Nana made turkey, dressing (my 2nd favorite), green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, smoked beef tenderloin, and cheesy cauliflower. Oh the joy of food! We ate and then walked over to see the status of construction on the new house. The house is awesome! It has a wonderful wrap-around porch, a huge family room, open kitchen, dining room and a master suite on the main floor that will eventually be surrounded by large windows and french doors. The upstairs has 2 large bedrooms and attached bathrooms for guests (um - me?). The property is all woodsy. Pops had the trees removed by crane to leave the smaller trees and brush. We took a walk through the woods to the Bayou. That was neat. We saw a snake. And I remember why I should never try to fix my hair in New Orleans because the humidity is my ever-triumphant foe! We went to Meg's Bridal Shower and I won the match game (matching French words to English - it wasn't really fair). Then, Em and I joined Meg and Helen, Cristina, Kate, and Ashley for a bachelorette party. Um, can we say uncomfortable? Yeah - Mormons don't really do these for a reason...Em and I then went on a quest for a new camera since her's was broken and met a nice man at Wal-Mart who let us have the doorbusters at 10pm!!! Holler! Mom stayed up late and made pralines and fell asleep while Aunt Rite working on Megan's dress. She awoke to the smell of Jambalaya and Aunt Rite still going. She didn't sleep! Crazy!
Well Saturday was a hurry hurry morning with everyone trying to get showered and ready for the wedding. We hurried, but somehow we were still the last ones out of the house. Part of the reason might have been the repeated calls for things forgotten. Anywho, we got on the road and then Mom remembered that she had promised Brandon a 1/4 of a pumpkin pie. He had asked for it because then it would mean that he had eaten a whole pie. He hugged her for it the night before and said - "Because your son would hug you for pumpkin pie." He knew how to get in her good graces! Well, because we had forgotten the pie, we hurried and turned around. We grabbed the pie and off we went, praying the whole time that we would make it. Well, they were running a little late and prayers were answered. We made it to Baton Rouge with time to spare and I didn't even go 100mph once!
Megan and Justin's wedding was awesome! It was so neat to see the entire Garcia family in the sealing room with them as they celebrated this happy occasion. Meg and Justin were so sweet and I'm so glad that we were able to be there for their special day. We then had a lunch catered by Aunt Becky and Uncle Kevin on last minute notice. It was good - there were cajun style hors d'oeuvres - mini meat and crawfish pies - and also the standards - quiche, roast beef sandwiches, veggie & fruit tray, and some chips. We took some pictures and then it was back to NOLA.
We stopped by Taco Tico on the way back. Why Taco Tico? Well because Mom had consumed numerous Chili Cheese Burritos whilst pregnant with me, so to this day I crave them! That and Taco Burgers. Are these really anything to gush about? Well, no, it's cheap Mexican food, but man I love me some Taco Tico.
After Taco Tico, Mom and I went to visit Grandma and Grandpa Sorensen. Uncle Faren and Aunt Cindy were also there. We kidded with Uncle Faren that we have to come to New Orleans to see him, even though they live less than 10 miles away from us! We talked and showed pics of Logan. Then it was off to the reception.
First though, we got a few emergency calls for music and food. We hurried and picked up some stuff that would be delicious covered in chocolate and I made a playlist for dancing. It was fun! There was wonderful food and it was great to see family and friends. Mom told Brandon that he owed me a dance for the pumpkin pie, but since he was off removing and replacing tires, the dance didn't happen....until after we had everything up and Brian played on his guitar while we danced. Wow! I'm that cool! We headed home and then Brandon, Kate and I went to see the new James Bond movie. I was very tired, but I managed to stay awake through the whole thing - barely. I went home and crashed and didn't wake up until the time we were supposed to leave on Sunday - hence, the leaving at 9:30am (see New Orleans Trip Part 1)
As you can tell, this trip was filled with food and fun, but mainly food! I would like to say that I was able to avoid gaining any weight, but with Butter Day and Grape Jelly's New Orleans-style buffet, I put on at least 5 lbs. No worries though - it's coming off this week in preparation for speaking in Stake Conference. I'm so nervous that food is the last thing I'm thinking of...well and nothing tastes quite as good as everything did last week.....
Monday, December 1, 2008
New Orleans trip (Part 1)
Oh girl....let me tell you what....
That trip was crazy! Lots of driving and lots of food!
We drove down Wednesday a little later than planned since we had to drop Mom's van at the dealership. While there, I visited with a girl from the Branch I hadn't seen at church in a while. It was fun. I miss her. The trip commenced at 1:30pm and we were off. The first stop - Natchitoches French Market Express for a potty and some meat pies and crawfish pies. Yum!
Then we hit a gas station in Breaux Bridge and I got a Hubig's Chocolate pie and a Barq's Red Creme Soda. Rejoice! These are such easy things, so I can't understand why Dallas is missing out! We got to Aunt Rite's around 9pm and started working. We got stuff together for Thanksgiving and started planning some reception items.
Yesterday was insane! We got in the car around 9:30 to head out. We stopped for food and realized that we left purses and wallets at Aunt Rite's so back I went. Then, we had to fill the Grape Jelly New Orleans-style Buffet. What is that you ask? Well, it's my car filled with all sorts of deliciousness from our favorite New Orleans places - we had shrimp po-boys, Bud's Broiler, Hubig's pies, Cafe du Monde, crawfish balls, and of course some Barq's Red Creme Soda! Holler! I love me some food. It was a good thing the buffet was well stocked because we didn't get home until 11pm. Yes, you're scratching your head going 9:30 - 11 that's over 13 hours...what happened?
TxDoT! That's what happened! They have a personal vendetta against me since the whole TxTag business (which still is NOT fixed by the way). Outside of Tyler, the traffic slowed to a halt and then down to one lane for construction. Really folks - one lane on perhaps one of the busiest travel days of the year? HELLO??!?! They weren't even constructing or anything. The lane was completely drivable - they just were storing some orange barrels (a theory once proposed by one Natalie Summers entitled "Orange Barrel Storage" has really come to be fact in my life). So we spent over an hour going less than 10mph and went a total of 7.8 miles in 1 hour. Fun! I was extremely bummed because it was Gavin's birthday and we had a party all planned with a "Sons of Provo" viewing that was cancelled. TxDoT - you shall know my wrath!
More to come....a Thanksgiving Feast, Shrimp Po-boys, Taco Tico and of course the whole reason we went - Megan and Justin's wedding!!
That trip was crazy! Lots of driving and lots of food!
We drove down Wednesday a little later than planned since we had to drop Mom's van at the dealership. While there, I visited with a girl from the Branch I hadn't seen at church in a while. It was fun. I miss her. The trip commenced at 1:30pm and we were off. The first stop - Natchitoches French Market Express for a potty and some meat pies and crawfish pies. Yum!
Then we hit a gas station in Breaux Bridge and I got a Hubig's Chocolate pie and a Barq's Red Creme Soda. Rejoice! These are such easy things, so I can't understand why Dallas is missing out! We got to Aunt Rite's around 9pm and started working. We got stuff together for Thanksgiving and started planning some reception items.
Yesterday was insane! We got in the car around 9:30 to head out. We stopped for food and realized that we left purses and wallets at Aunt Rite's so back I went. Then, we had to fill the Grape Jelly New Orleans-style Buffet. What is that you ask? Well, it's my car filled with all sorts of deliciousness from our favorite New Orleans places - we had shrimp po-boys, Bud's Broiler, Hubig's pies, Cafe du Monde, crawfish balls, and of course some Barq's Red Creme Soda! Holler! I love me some food. It was a good thing the buffet was well stocked because we didn't get home until 11pm. Yes, you're scratching your head going 9:30 - 11 that's over 13 hours...what happened?
TxDoT! That's what happened! They have a personal vendetta against me since the whole TxTag business (which still is NOT fixed by the way). Outside of Tyler, the traffic slowed to a halt and then down to one lane for construction. Really folks - one lane on perhaps one of the busiest travel days of the year? HELLO??!?! They weren't even constructing or anything. The lane was completely drivable - they just were storing some orange barrels (a theory once proposed by one Natalie Summers entitled "Orange Barrel Storage" has really come to be fact in my life). So we spent over an hour going less than 10mph and went a total of 7.8 miles in 1 hour. Fun! I was extremely bummed because it was Gavin's birthday and we had a party all planned with a "Sons of Provo" viewing that was cancelled. TxDoT - you shall know my wrath!
More to come....a Thanksgiving Feast, Shrimp Po-boys, Taco Tico and of course the whole reason we went - Megan and Justin's wedding!!
A good reminder...
Yesterday, as we were driving back from New Orleans, Mom read me a couple articles from the December Ensign. In the First Presidency Message, Pres. Monson quoted David O. McKay "True happiness comes only by making others happy..."
So, with that reminder, I'm off! Christmas has been a worry for me this year because I'm really trying to be more finacially self-reliant and get out of debt and I know that I tend to be a big spender for gifts. I am a small-gifts person after all! I decided that I was going to make presents this year and try to keep my budget at a reasonable amount so that I can pay for everything with cash. Hopefully I'll be able to pull it off! Wish me luck!
The Five Love Languages
So, with that reminder, I'm off! Christmas has been a worry for me this year because I'm really trying to be more finacially self-reliant and get out of debt and I know that I tend to be a big spender for gifts. I am a small-gifts person after all! I decided that I was going to make presents this year and try to keep my budget at a reasonable amount so that I can pay for everything with cash. Hopefully I'll be able to pull it off! Wish me luck!
The Five Love Languages
My Primary Love Language is Receiving Gifts
| My Detailed Results: | |
|---|---|
| Receiving Gifts: | 12 |
| Physical Touch: | 7 |
| Acts of Service: | 7 |
| Words of Affirmation: | 2 |
| Quality Time: | 2 |
Friday, November 21, 2008
A Media Fast
UPDATE (25 Nov 08):
I have No Doubt, Ingrid Michaelson, A Fine Frenzy, Brooke Fraser, and Styx in my CD player...didn't want y'all to think I'm close to being translated or something! Just wanted to share some thoughts on some simple changes I've been trying out....
ORIGINAL (21 Nov 08):
So I didn't voluntarily give up TV, movies, and radio, but I am grateful for the change that it's been for me. Back in May when Michael was preparing to put in his mission papers, the Stake President asked that he start living like a missionary - no TV or radio, only G-rated movies, limited internet, and other things....
Since I spent a majority of my time with him over the past 6 months, I haven't been listening to the radio, I only watch 1 or 2 tv shows each night (JEOPARDY and Dancing with the Stars tend to be the favs) and the only movies I saw in the theater were Wall-E and the Emma Smith movie. On Tuesday, I went with Dad and the monkeys to see Dark Knight. DISTURBING! Oh my goodness! Other people told me they didn't like it either for the violence and it's "dark" feeling, but I have to admit that it really pushed me to reconsider my "media fast." I've been turning off the TV more and trying to listen to uplifting music (but I do need some Styx to rock out every now and then!). I didn't think that it made that much of a difference, but now that I realize that I haven't had that static in my life, I recognize an increased measure of the Spirit and I'm able to recognize promptings far more often than before. Neat!
I was just reading some articles getting ready for my talk in Stake Conference and I found this neat quote from Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin in a conference talk...
"Parents must know what their children are watching on television and must protect them from its evil influence. They should set a proper example by watching only those programs that are uplifting and worthwhile and opposing those that are corrupt and degrading. Many people decry television shows that portray sin and evil as being normal and acceptable, and even preferable to righteous living. However, viewers set the standards for television broadcasting. The networks and stations broadcast the types of programs that most of the people want to see. Mr. Frank Stanton, CBS president emeritus, told a Brigham Young University audience that network television standards will continue to decline because they are based onsociety's standards. He said, 'Standards come from the audience; the audience determines the programming and program content.' Further, he said, 'I believe there will be more infractions with respect to [immorality] and violence and it will get a lot worse before it gets better because of the changing standards of our society.' "
When was this said?
1989
when "The Cosby Show" and "Golden Girls" were the top shows
not "Desperate Housewives" and "Grey's Anatomy"
I'm just saying...
Monday, November 17, 2008
So I'm coming around on the whole photoshop thing...
Recently when looking at a couple of different pictures I thought - I really just like the original better. Then, I went all crazy and started messing with some photoshop express business and had some fun. I started with some pictures I took of Jill, Michael's little sister who happens to be one of the Drum Majors of the Hebron Marching Band. Now keep it straight - all of these pictures haven't been altered, but some have. Can you tell which ones have? And how? That's the trick! Have fun!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
I've lost the will to blog....
Yes, and I've only been at such a little time....Of course, I've lost the will to do most things. I do enjoy crafting it up these days though. I made a recipe box and a beautiful picture frame for "The Living Christ" for my new beautiful bedroom. Maybe one day I'll buy a camera and take pictures and post what I made, but for now, that whole lackofmotivation thing kinda gets in the way.
I thoroughly enjoyed my long weekend off work so much so that I asked my mom - do you think I could be a stay-at-home sister? Really? I could only dream!
In writing this post, I realized I hadn't yet shared the joy of my new door. Yes that's right folks - I have a door (and a bedroom to go along with it!). I'm super excited to have my own space with the luxury of a DOOR! Can you believe it? Last week, while at work, Dad sent me a text playing a fun game which we often do of "guess where I'm at." I guessed work, but actually he was laying my bed, which instantly struck me as odd because my bed has been buried since before they left to take Logan to the MTC (See the Family Blog for more info on that). He cleared it up when he sent me a poor quality cell phone picture of a magnificent site - my bed cleaned off and in a new location! Yay! For those unaware of the past 3 years of my life - I have been the migrant in the house. When I first came home after graduation, I slept on the couch. Back from NOLA and FEMA work, I shared with Logan - interesting to say the least. Then it was off to the laundry room - which was great for the personal space, except that there was no door from the kitchen and a door leading from the garage that my little brothers and their friends never managed to knock on before entering. Now finally, I am back to living like a full citizen! To say that I'm excited is perhaps the understatement of the year. I am thrilled! I love my comfy bed and pretty curtains and most of all - the door. Wonder of wonders! Thanks Dad! I'm glad you had the day off and that you spent it creating the place that I never want to leave. Hmmmm maybe this is the root of the lost will....I will have to investigate. Or maybe I should just buy a laptop so that I can blog from the comfort of my cave....
I thoroughly enjoyed my long weekend off work so much so that I asked my mom - do you think I could be a stay-at-home sister? Really? I could only dream!
In writing this post, I realized I hadn't yet shared the joy of my new door. Yes that's right folks - I have a door (and a bedroom to go along with it!). I'm super excited to have my own space with the luxury of a DOOR! Can you believe it? Last week, while at work, Dad sent me a text playing a fun game which we often do of "guess where I'm at." I guessed work, but actually he was laying my bed, which instantly struck me as odd because my bed has been buried since before they left to take Logan to the MTC (See the Family Blog for more info on that). He cleared it up when he sent me a poor quality cell phone picture of a magnificent site - my bed cleaned off and in a new location! Yay! For those unaware of the past 3 years of my life - I have been the migrant in the house. When I first came home after graduation, I slept on the couch. Back from NOLA and FEMA work, I shared with Logan - interesting to say the least. Then it was off to the laundry room - which was great for the personal space, except that there was no door from the kitchen and a door leading from the garage that my little brothers and their friends never managed to knock on before entering. Now finally, I am back to living like a full citizen! To say that I'm excited is perhaps the understatement of the year. I am thrilled! I love my comfy bed and pretty curtains and most of all - the door. Wonder of wonders! Thanks Dad! I'm glad you had the day off and that you spent it creating the place that I never want to leave. Hmmmm maybe this is the root of the lost will....I will have to investigate. Or maybe I should just buy a laptop so that I can blog from the comfort of my cave....
Friday, October 24, 2008
I love fried almost as much as I love free....
And that's why I had to go to the Texas State Fair!!!! What an adventure in fried foods and fun! There's fried everything - including Pralines, Corny Dogs, Funnel Cakes, Grilled Cheese, S'mores, Oreos, Snickers, Banana Split, Chololate-Covered Strawberry Waffle Balls, Pineapple Ice Cream, Espresso, Chocolate Truffle, Bacon (Chicken Fried to be exact!) and Jelly Belly Beans! And that's not even a complete list, just what I could remember!!! MaryAnn had to have a fried s'more. Michael had funnel cake. I enjoyed the greatness of Fried Pralines with Bluebell Ice Cream and Chocolate syrup on top. Oh the joy of fried! We also went for the traditional turkey leg (which Michael and Emilee shared) and I had some sausage - y'all know how much I love smoked sausage!
Of course there was more to the fair than the food - a car show, a light show, a blonde ditz show (Jessica Simpson performed - "I gotta pee y'all!"), and pig racing. We rode the Texas Star - the giant Ferris Wheel - and just had a grand time with a C4 Krewe - MaryAnn, Emilee, Alicia, Ben, Robert, Angelar, Chris, Suzanne, Michael, and myself.
Enjoy the pics....
Of course there was more to the fair than the food - a car show, a light show, a blonde ditz show (Jessica Simpson performed - "I gotta pee y'all!"), and pig racing. We rode the Texas Star - the giant Ferris Wheel - and just had a grand time with a C4 Krewe - MaryAnn, Emilee, Alicia, Ben, Robert, Angelar, Chris, Suzanne, Michael, and myself.
Enjoy the pics....
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Eight things in six topics...
So Erin tagged me...how can I resist this fun little interview...
8 Favorite TV shows:
8 Favorite TV shows:
- LOST
- Dancing with the Stars
- Jeopardy
- What Not to Wear
- So You Think You Can Dance
- The Colbert Report
- The Office
- Heroes
- Went to work
- Went to 3 DSW Stores on the way home
- Called 5 DSW Stores
- A wonderful evening with the Stake President, his wife, and the fam
- Saw my brother set apart as a Missionary - Yay Elder Sorensen!
- Went to Penney's with B & G and thoroughly enjoyed their budding styles
- Watched some Dancing with the Stars & Jeopardy - see above!!
- Slept in the recliner while Elder Sorensen kept asking me how to copy pictures to the computer, where the family names to do baptims at Winter Quarters Temple were, can I take a picture with you, and my favorite - have you seen the Ipod?
8 Things I look forward to:
- October 2010
- the weekend - every week
- My weight loss goal acheived
- A Master's degree
- Debt paid off
- Home ownership
- A Piano Studio
- Mardi Gras - Erin, save that vacation time!!!!
8 Favorite Restaurants:
- Semolina's - Crawfish Alfredo - yes please!!!
- Deanie's - New Orleans Seafood - hello?
- Maggiano's - especially if I can see Katileigh Nell Burger!!!
- Prairie House - mmmm Sausage!
- Rockfish Grill - the closest thing to #2 in DFW
- Dodie's - a great pleace to visit when I'm feeling a trip to NOLA coming on, but don't have the cash!
- Bennigan's - the home of the Monte Cristo
- Applebee's - the home of the Shrimp and Spinach Salad!
8 Things on my Wish List:
- A new back
- A job closer to home
- Elders Sorensen and Starks to be great missionaries!
- Tax breaks all around!!!
- Price of oil per barrell - $50!
- A fun time at the State Fair on Friday
- Jill to do great on Saturday at Regionals
- move back to NOLA
8 People I tag:
- Mom
- Kati B.
- April H.
- Christy D.
- Amee S.
- Kerrie C.
- Suzanne L.
- YOU!
(If you have been tagged, post your answers to these six categories of 8, then tag 8 more people.)
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Service is a life-saver....Literally!
Yesterday at the Sorensen house was an interesting one to say the least -
I left work a few minutes late and realized that I needed to stop and get gas. While getting off the highway, my brother calls. The conversation went something like this:
Me: "Hello?"
Burke: "Hi Kaycee."
Me: "What's up? Did you need something?"
Burke: "Mom wants to know what time you'll be home."
Me: "In about an hour or so...I have to get gas and traffic is pretty bad."
Burke: "Ok, she says can you please hurry because she needs your help. We forgot we're feeding the missionaries today and Brigham pooped on the wall."
Me: "I'll hurry...wait did you say on the wall?"
Burke: "Yeah, he pooped and then played. See you soon."
So, with that in mind, I hurried to fill up, but there were these 2 teenage girls who came up to the guy pumping gas next to me. They asked if he had any money because they ran out of gas and had to get home to Cleburne (We were in Hurst). He said he didn't have any cash, but he would give them all the change in his ashtray. They gladly took it and headed over to their car. I watched and stood there and thought about how much I hate to just give money to people, but then remembered my running out of gas experience and tried to think of what I could do. They never asked me, so did they really need it? Well, I decided to go use my card and let them pump $5 worth of gas. When I offered, they were immediately thankful and keep thanking me the whole time the gas was a-pumpin. When I realized they were in an old Jeep, I knew $5 wouldn't get them very far, so I said $10. Yes, I should have been on the road to help clean-up the poop portrait, but it felt like I should help the girls out.
So, after they were done getting gas, I left and got back on the road. I got to Grapevine near DFW and the traffic was completely stopped. I took one of my secret back-ways and while passing the line of traffic, I saw that the highway was shut down with 2 fire engines and a couple of ambulances. The thought instantly came to my mind, if I hadn't spent the 5 or 10 extra minutes to help the girls, I would have been right there. Wow! Sometimes the Spirit is so awesome. I was so grateful for the prayers of my brothers who always ask Heavenly Father to help me be safe and have a good day at work. I definitely saw that prayer answered yesterday.
By the time I got home, the poop portrait was gone, dinner was ready to be put on the table, and the kids were playing happily in the backyard. My mom never ceases to amaze me! Yes, she has had a busy and rough time lately with everything she has to do, but how she does it, I don't know!
My dad is pretty awesome too! The day before my birthday, we were headed to Pancho's for a "Quantity not Quality: Mexican Feast and I stopped to pick up Mom and the Boys. We were waiting for a while, so I went in to see what was up and Mom was scurrying around the kitchen. Apparently the burner on the stove had started sparking and caught fire and put a hole in the pot. The stove would not turn off, and we couldn't unplug it, so I pulled the element out and we went on our merry way. Well, it was the largest burner, so it's been tricky to cook since then. Yesterday, my dad fixed the stove. He bought a new element and switched the wires so we can use the stove again. He's pretty handy and definitely a hard worker! Even after a full day of work (12 hours as a nurse!), he came home and installed a toilet seat, fixed the stove, and much more on the "honey do" list. It's another way that I amazed! He rocks!
I on the other hand feel like a dork. I only slept 1 hour the night before last and last night still didn't sleep over 6 hours or so. I feel like I am dragging constantly and I am not getting much done. I think I need to go be creative like Pres. Uchtdorf said at the General Relief Society Broadcast on Saturday....
I left work a few minutes late and realized that I needed to stop and get gas. While getting off the highway, my brother calls. The conversation went something like this:
Me: "Hello?"
Burke: "Hi Kaycee."
Me: "What's up? Did you need something?"
Burke: "Mom wants to know what time you'll be home."
Me: "In about an hour or so...I have to get gas and traffic is pretty bad."
Burke: "Ok, she says can you please hurry because she needs your help. We forgot we're feeding the missionaries today and Brigham pooped on the wall."
Me: "I'll hurry...wait did you say on the wall?"
Burke: "Yeah, he pooped and then played. See you soon."
So, with that in mind, I hurried to fill up, but there were these 2 teenage girls who came up to the guy pumping gas next to me. They asked if he had any money because they ran out of gas and had to get home to Cleburne (We were in Hurst). He said he didn't have any cash, but he would give them all the change in his ashtray. They gladly took it and headed over to their car. I watched and stood there and thought about how much I hate to just give money to people, but then remembered my running out of gas experience and tried to think of what I could do. They never asked me, so did they really need it? Well, I decided to go use my card and let them pump $5 worth of gas. When I offered, they were immediately thankful and keep thanking me the whole time the gas was a-pumpin. When I realized they were in an old Jeep, I knew $5 wouldn't get them very far, so I said $10. Yes, I should have been on the road to help clean-up the poop portrait, but it felt like I should help the girls out.
So, after they were done getting gas, I left and got back on the road. I got to Grapevine near DFW and the traffic was completely stopped. I took one of my secret back-ways and while passing the line of traffic, I saw that the highway was shut down with 2 fire engines and a couple of ambulances. The thought instantly came to my mind, if I hadn't spent the 5 or 10 extra minutes to help the girls, I would have been right there. Wow! Sometimes the Spirit is so awesome. I was so grateful for the prayers of my brothers who always ask Heavenly Father to help me be safe and have a good day at work. I definitely saw that prayer answered yesterday.
By the time I got home, the poop portrait was gone, dinner was ready to be put on the table, and the kids were playing happily in the backyard. My mom never ceases to amaze me! Yes, she has had a busy and rough time lately with everything she has to do, but how she does it, I don't know!
My dad is pretty awesome too! The day before my birthday, we were headed to Pancho's for a "Quantity not Quality: Mexican Feast and I stopped to pick up Mom and the Boys. We were waiting for a while, so I went in to see what was up and Mom was scurrying around the kitchen. Apparently the burner on the stove had started sparking and caught fire and put a hole in the pot. The stove would not turn off, and we couldn't unplug it, so I pulled the element out and we went on our merry way. Well, it was the largest burner, so it's been tricky to cook since then. Yesterday, my dad fixed the stove. He bought a new element and switched the wires so we can use the stove again. He's pretty handy and definitely a hard worker! Even after a full day of work (12 hours as a nurse!), he came home and installed a toilet seat, fixed the stove, and much more on the "honey do" list. It's another way that I amazed! He rocks!
I on the other hand feel like a dork. I only slept 1 hour the night before last and last night still didn't sleep over 6 hours or so. I feel like I am dragging constantly and I am not getting much done. I think I need to go be creative like Pres. Uchtdorf said at the General Relief Society Broadcast on Saturday....
Friday, September 19, 2008
Ahoy....me name be Kaycee....
Ahoy, me swashbucklers and wenches....today be International Talk Like a Pirate Day. If ye aren't using the talk of a pirate, ye are riling the Krewe and asking to walk the plank.....Arrrrr...
My pirate name is:
Red Grace Flint
Passion is a big part of your life, which makes sense for a pirate. Like the rock flint, you're hard and sharp. But, also like flint, you're easily chipped, and sparky. Arr!
Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.
part of the fidius.org network
And now for some pirate humor....
Q: How do pirates know that they’re pirates?
A: They think; therefore they arrrr.
My pirate name is:
Red Grace Flint
Passion is a big part of your life, which makes sense for a pirate. Like the rock flint, you're hard and sharp. But, also like flint, you're easily chipped, and sparky. Arr!
Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.
part of the fidius.org network
Sorry I haven`t updated th' blog in a while. `Tis been a wee crazy around here wi' voyage calls an' temple appointments an' open house plannin' an' such. Nay only be me laddie leavin' on a voyage on Octobree 22, but so be me boyfriend - Michael. He reports on th' 29th tho an' he`s nay goin' t' India, but t' Portland, OR. Needless t' say, plenty o' stuff t' do! Enjoy th' swashbuckler talk....an' be havin' some fun! My aft be messed up some more. I had another MRI done last tides an' I sailed' aft t' th' spinal surgeon t' get th' results. Th' disc t'ain't lookin' so great an' th' vertebrae be showin' some signs o' injury as well. I be goin' t' start steroid injections an' get some o' th' scar tissue clisted ou'. Hopefully, 't will hold me o'er fer a while. Disc replacement be loomin'....
And now for some pirate humor....
Q: How do pirates know that they’re pirates?
A: They think; therefore they arrrr.
Q: How much was the pirate charged to get his ear pierced?
A: Buccaneer
A: Buccaneer
Some great links about this special day:
Even Google got in on the Pirate Fun!
The origins on TLAPD....Dave Berry is awesome!!
There's even a TLAPD song too....
Even Google got in on the Pirate Fun!
The origins on TLAPD....Dave Berry is awesome!!
There's even a TLAPD song too....
Normal translation:
Hello guys and gals....today is National Talk Like a Pirate Day. If you aren't talking like a pirate, you might upset my family and they'll hurt you.....So......
Sorry I haven't updated the blog in a while. It's been a little crazy around here with mission calls and temple appointments and open house planning and such. Not only is my brother leaving on a mission on October 22, but so is my boyfriend - Michael. He reports on the 29th though and he's not going to India, but to Portland, OR. Needless to say, plenty of stuff to do!
My back is messed up some more. I had another MRI done last week and I went back to the spinal surgeon to get the results. The disc isn't looking so great and the vertebrae are showing some signs of injury as well. I'm going to start steroid injections and get some of the scar tissue cleaned out. Hopefully, it will hold me over for a while. Disc replacement is looming....
Monday, September 8, 2008
Thought this was clever...
and it applies so well in my family! The whole reason why The Simpsons was banned in the Sorensen home? At the age of 8, I told my mom "Don't have a cow man!"
Sorry - forgot to tell you where it's from: Banksy "the world's foremost art terrorist." Apparently, he hit New Orleans recently on August 28th just before the third anniversary of Katrina. This was one of his works.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Marriage and Family
So I was being my stalker self and had to go read my friend Kati B's blog since she updated for the first time in months. She posted some info about Prop 8 in California - which is set to reaffirm California voters' vote on Prop 22 in 2000 by amending the state consitution - to define marriage as only between a man and a woman. Why do they have to reiterate what passed with 61% of the vote? Because 4 judges in San Francisco have overturned the people's voice to recognize same-sex marriage and declared sexual orientation to be a protected class giving them civil rights. Rights are important, but with this distinction, anyone who speaks against homosexuality - even in church - could be prosecuted for hate speech.
I hope that I am not coming across the wrong way, and I really believe that the Church’s opposition to same-sex marriage neither constitutes nor condones any kind of hostility towards men and women with same-gender attraction. Protecting marriage between a man and a woman does not affect my Christian obligation of love, kindness and humanity toward all people, but I do know that there is a prophet of God on the Earth today - Thomas S. Monson - and he, along with his counselors, have counseled the members in California to get involved in this issue to help preserve the sacred institution of marriage. If the prophet is giving specific counsel, I want to follow that. Yes, I don't live in California, but I know that when legislation begins in one place, it often follows elsewhere. I figure if anything, I can help get the word out and help support the cause of righteousness. If anything, this is my effort to let people know where I stand and it is unequivocally on the side of marriage between a man and a woman and continuing to support the family as the basic unit of society - both here on Earth and in eternity.
For more information see:
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - the Church's official website
- Preserving Tradition Marriage and Strengthening Families - a letter from First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Church leaders in California to be read to all congregations on 29 June 2008
- Kati's blog - what inspired this post
- The Family Proclamation - a proclamation given by Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley, then the prophet, in September 1995 that defines the Church's belief and expectations concerning the Family
- The Divine Institution of Marriage - an article from the Church about its involvement with Prop 8
- Same-Gender Attraction/Marriage - excerpts from an interview with Elder Dallin H. Oaks, a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles, and Elder Lance B. Wickman, a member of the Seventy.
- Same-Sex Attraction - perhaps the most succint and best information on the subject from an Apostle, Elder Oaks
- Protect Marriage - a coalition to help support the passing of Prop 8
- Poway - one of the stake websites showing the Church's support for this
- When Gay Rights and Religious Liberties Clash - NPR article showing how religious groups are being challenged about their provision of services to individuals with same-gender attraction and losing
Monday, August 25, 2008
I had a birthday - shout hooray!
Lot's of people sang to me yesterday.
I'm one year older and wiser too.
I had a great birthday thanks to you!
Ok, enough with my shameless adaptation of a primary song - onto the good stuff -
My birthday was yesterday. My last couple have been on the lame side, so I was trying not to get excited about this one. I mean come on - 26 - what's so great about that?
Well, on Saturday night, Mom, Dad, Gavin, Chance, Michael, and I ate some Pancho's goodness. Yes, it's a quantity over quality kind of place, but I do love me cheap Mexican food in excess! Sunday morning, I had meetings for church, so I planned to ride with Michael as usual. Michael said he had to be there early, so I got up extra early - i.e. 7 am - and hurried over to pick him up. I got there and he asked me to come in - I was already suspicious. He had a present waiting for me (that his mom helped "wrap") - dental pics that we saw at the store a while back and 26 Snickers Nut N Butter Crunch (well actually there were only 20 because he had enjoyed some). Also, there was my favorite breakfast - French Toast (that his dad had helped cook). It was yummy delicious. Once we were finished, we headed to Branch Council, which was ok and then the 3-hour block. I had offered to play the organ in sacrament meeting, so I was playing prelude and 3 different people came up and shared birthday wishes and presents. Holler! Alicia gave me some watermelon lip smackers; Staci gave me this awesome thing for my wall; and MaryAnn told me my present was in the car. What fun!
After sacrament meeting, Michael walked in with a Sunday School manual and looked a little stressed. I asked - Are you teaching? He said he had forgotten that 3 of the 4 teachers would be out of town, so he was going to teach. I offered to teach and had a good time teaching about the Stripling Warriors. Not too tricky of a lesson to teach since I feel like I live with them. It went well, then it was off to Relief Society. For music enrichment, Amy had everyone sing "Happy Birthday" and we had all of the June, July, and August birthdays come up and get a treat. It was fun! The lesson was great too!
After church, I went over to Michael's to work on this project I've been trying to finish for over a month. I didn't finish, but headed home around 4:30. Got home, cleaned up a bit, started to frost one of my cakes, and then tons of folks came over to celebrate. It was awesome! The Willardsons came from McKinney. Sister Tenney came. Diane and Jared came (all the way from Utah I might add!! :). Emilee and her brood, Mimi, Loree, Brooks, and Darbee, and Amanda and Jonathan Colegrove also came. It was tons of fun and tons of crazy. There were kids running everywhere! I had a great time.
I got some pretty cool presents - a Piano shaped jewelry music box, a Pei Wei gift card, a porcelain figurine, a quilt cover, a new church binder-notebook thingy, M&M paraphernalia, some awesome pictures (thanks Lizzie), cosmetics, this awesome hand crank lantern, these awesome cupcakes on lollipop sticks (which I haven't tried as of yet, but look forward to eating when I get home today!! thanks Kati B!!!) and lots of very sweet cards. I'm a small gifts love language girl, so I was feeling very loved!
After the excitement left, I watched some Olympic action and ate some sausage and then MaryAnn and Suzanne came over to bring me my presents - European chocolates and new swimming gear (awesome tinted goggles and a white Nike swim cap).
What a way to finish out a great day!
So, 26 is starting out magnificently. I'm excited for all of the things that are coming up - Logan going on a mission, Michael getting his mission call and going to serve, applying for a master's degree, training for the sprint tri, paying off some more debt....the list goes on.....
Thanks everyone for helping me have a great day!
Love ya!
I'm one year older and wiser too.
I had a great birthday thanks to you!
Ok, enough with my shameless adaptation of a primary song - onto the good stuff -
My birthday was yesterday. My last couple have been on the lame side, so I was trying not to get excited about this one. I mean come on - 26 - what's so great about that?
Well, on Saturday night, Mom, Dad, Gavin, Chance, Michael, and I ate some Pancho's goodness. Yes, it's a quantity over quality kind of place, but I do love me cheap Mexican food in excess! Sunday morning, I had meetings for church, so I planned to ride with Michael as usual. Michael said he had to be there early, so I got up extra early - i.e. 7 am - and hurried over to pick him up. I got there and he asked me to come in - I was already suspicious. He had a present waiting for me (that his mom helped "wrap") - dental pics that we saw at the store a while back and 26 Snickers Nut N Butter Crunch (well actually there were only 20 because he had enjoyed some). Also, there was my favorite breakfast - French Toast (that his dad had helped cook). It was yummy delicious. Once we were finished, we headed to Branch Council, which was ok and then the 3-hour block. I had offered to play the organ in sacrament meeting, so I was playing prelude and 3 different people came up and shared birthday wishes and presents. Holler! Alicia gave me some watermelon lip smackers; Staci gave me this awesome thing for my wall; and MaryAnn told me my present was in the car. What fun!
After sacrament meeting, Michael walked in with a Sunday School manual and looked a little stressed. I asked - Are you teaching? He said he had forgotten that 3 of the 4 teachers would be out of town, so he was going to teach. I offered to teach and had a good time teaching about the Stripling Warriors. Not too tricky of a lesson to teach since I feel like I live with them. It went well, then it was off to Relief Society. For music enrichment, Amy had everyone sing "Happy Birthday" and we had all of the June, July, and August birthdays come up and get a treat. It was fun! The lesson was great too!
After church, I went over to Michael's to work on this project I've been trying to finish for over a month. I didn't finish, but headed home around 4:30. Got home, cleaned up a bit, started to frost one of my cakes, and then tons of folks came over to celebrate. It was awesome! The Willardsons came from McKinney. Sister Tenney came. Diane and Jared came (all the way from Utah I might add!! :). Emilee and her brood, Mimi, Loree, Brooks, and Darbee, and Amanda and Jonathan Colegrove also came. It was tons of fun and tons of crazy. There were kids running everywhere! I had a great time.
I got some pretty cool presents - a Piano shaped jewelry music box, a Pei Wei gift card, a porcelain figurine, a quilt cover, a new church binder-notebook thingy, M&M paraphernalia, some awesome pictures (thanks Lizzie), cosmetics, this awesome hand crank lantern, these awesome cupcakes on lollipop sticks (which I haven't tried as of yet, but look forward to eating when I get home today!! thanks Kati B!!!) and lots of very sweet cards. I'm a small gifts love language girl, so I was feeling very loved!
After the excitement left, I watched some Olympic action and ate some sausage and then MaryAnn and Suzanne came over to bring me my presents - European chocolates and new swimming gear (awesome tinted goggles and a white Nike swim cap).
What a way to finish out a great day!
So, 26 is starting out magnificently. I'm excited for all of the things that are coming up - Logan going on a mission, Michael getting his mission call and going to serve, applying for a master's degree, training for the sprint tri, paying off some more debt....the list goes on.....
Thanks everyone for helping me have a great day!
Love ya!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Oh What Do You Do in the Summertime?
When all the world is green.....I work. Boo! Sometimes I really hate that I have to be a grown-up and be all responsible and such. I really enjoy summers and working 40 hours a week and driving to that work for 10 really takes away from that enjoyment. On Saturday however, I was able to go to the lake. I love going to the lake. It's how I exercise these days. Uh oh here comes some math ------ TANGENT ---- See....
I have a good friend (one of my best) MaryAnn. She and I met in the C4 YSA Branch. The first day she came, I introduced myself (not just because I am the RSP, but because she seemed cool) and asked her where she was from. She told me she was moving from Boston. I had just spent time in New Orleans with the Garcia fam and met Erica, Brian's girlfriend (but also fiancee because I know they were talking!), who was living in Boston. My response to MaryAnn "Ohhh my cousin's almost fiancee lives there....Do you know Erica Ruth?" For the life of me I could not remember her last name, but sure enough MaryAnn knew who she was because she said "Erica Egli?" Our bond was sealed! We both were fans of Erica - common ground. Since that day, I have come to truly respect and admire MaryAnn. She is amazing! When I grow up, there are people that I want to be like and MaryAnn is one of them.
Whew....I hope you made it through that....now onto the story.....
Anyway, I am MaryAnn's visiting teacher (it was inspiration - I promise!) and one day when I went to visit I mentioned how my family likes to go swimming in Lake Lewisville. She was so excited. We arranged to go swimming during the week and then went again for Memorial Day. We have been swimming in the lake at least twice a week all summer, except for when MaryAnn went to Yankee land to visit her brother and sister (and was her totally awesome self and got some family history pics for me!). We have a usual route to "the peninsula" that is about 1/4 mile.
Two weeks ago, we started swimming further. We swam to "the island" which is about a 1/2 mile round trip.
Saturday, since it was a little choppy and cloudy, we swam past "the peninsula" but not quite as far as our island trip of the previous week. We are getting pretty good if I do say so myself and it's definitely good exercise because I'm always hungry after swimming and I sleep really well.
So why swim in nasty Lake Lewisville? Well, I have this goal. I am going to complete a sprint triathlon (500m or 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) before I turn 30. I would say when I'm 26, but because of the back surgery this year, I don't think I'll be able to train like I'd prefer so I'm giving myself a few years. Since swimming is my forte, I'm starting there and then when I have the money saved, I'm going to buy a good bike and start that training. I can't run (Dr. Guess, my back surgeon, would not be a happy camper or maybe he would be because he could make some more money...), so I plan to start back on the Elliptical when the feeling comes back completely in my left foot. I don't want to do it before then because it's risky. When I complete the sprint I plan to speed walk the 5km. So, there you go - the sprint triathlon is now officially one of my goals (since "A goal that isn’t written down is just a wish.").
I have a good friend (one of my best) MaryAnn. She and I met in the C4 YSA Branch. The first day she came, I introduced myself (not just because I am the RSP, but because she seemed cool) and asked her where she was from. She told me she was moving from Boston. I had just spent time in New Orleans with the Garcia fam and met Erica, Brian's girlfriend (but also fiancee because I know they were talking!), who was living in Boston. My response to MaryAnn "Ohhh my cousin's almost fiancee lives there....Do you know Erica Ruth?" For the life of me I could not remember her last name, but sure enough MaryAnn knew who she was because she said "Erica Egli?" Our bond was sealed! We both were fans of Erica - common ground. Since that day, I have come to truly respect and admire MaryAnn. She is amazing! When I grow up, there are people that I want to be like and MaryAnn is one of them.
Whew....I hope you made it through that....now onto the story.....
Anyway, I am MaryAnn's visiting teacher (it was inspiration - I promise!) and one day when I went to visit I mentioned how my family likes to go swimming in Lake Lewisville. She was so excited. We arranged to go swimming during the week and then went again for Memorial Day. We have been swimming in the lake at least twice a week all summer, except for when MaryAnn went to Yankee land to visit her brother and sister (and was her totally awesome self and got some family history pics for me!). We have a usual route to "the peninsula" that is about 1/4 mile.
Two weeks ago, we started swimming further. We swam to "the island" which is about a 1/2 mile round trip. Saturday, since it was a little choppy and cloudy, we swam past "the peninsula" but not quite as far as our island trip of the previous week. We are getting pretty good if I do say so myself and it's definitely good exercise because I'm always hungry after swimming and I sleep really well.So why swim in nasty Lake Lewisville? Well, I have this goal. I am going to complete a sprint triathlon (500m or 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) before I turn 30. I would say when I'm 26, but because of the back surgery this year, I don't think I'll be able to train like I'd prefer so I'm giving myself a few years. Since swimming is my forte, I'm starting there and then when I have the money saved, I'm going to buy a good bike and start that training. I can't run (Dr. Guess, my back surgeon, would not be a happy camper or maybe he would be because he could make some more money...), so I plan to start back on the Elliptical when the feeling comes back completely in my left foot. I don't want to do it before then because it's risky. When I complete the sprint I plan to speed walk the 5km. So, there you go - the sprint triathlon is now officially one of my goals (since "A goal that isn’t written down is just a wish.").
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
My brother is going to India
Yes, that's right - India! Logan received a call to serve in the India Bangalore mission. We're still in shock, but we all know he'll do great. He has a fun list of immunizations he has to get that's for sure. One series (Japanese Encephalitis) is $100 per shot!!! It will be interesting to have him literally on the opposite side of the world. He'll be in India for Christmas. (Wow, just typing that I got a little choked up. The vapors....)
So onto other topics - I'm tired. Is that the usual post for me? Because I think I feel tired a lot! The nice thing is that my tired is just my eyes. My body feels energized - thanks for the drugs Dr. Johnson! I went to see my friend Dr. Johnson Monday for my check-up. Since the last time I was in I had lost 10lbs! But on an even more exciting note, I am down 30lbs since April. Holler! I'm hoping to be down another 15lbs before Logan and Michael leave on their missions. It will take some effot, but I think it can be done! For now, I'll keep downing the H20 and trying to avoid the Burger King fries and Taco Bell (my weight loss nemeses).
So onto other topics - I'm tired. Is that the usual post for me? Because I think I feel tired a lot! The nice thing is that my tired is just my eyes. My body feels energized - thanks for the drugs Dr. Johnson! I went to see my friend Dr. Johnson Monday for my check-up. Since the last time I was in I had lost 10lbs! But on an even more exciting note, I am down 30lbs since April. Holler! I'm hoping to be down another 15lbs before Logan and Michael leave on their missions. It will take some effot, but I think it can be done! For now, I'll keep downing the H20 and trying to avoid the Burger King fries and Taco Bell (my weight loss nemeses).
Monday, August 11, 2008
It's Monday....
Yes, it's Monday. Oh how I wish that it was still Saturday! This weekend was not long enough considering everything that I've been dealing with lately. I'm definitely exhausted to say the least! I can barely keep my eyes open this morning. My body needs a week off, but I don't think I have enough vacation time saved, especially since I'll need it for when we take Logan to the MTC.
So, the funeral went well. It was well attended and Heather looked beautiful. I was proud of Staci. She did quite well with everything. The slideshow we worked on turned out great and now we're working on a book for Tyla (Heather's little girl). We are gathering letters from people who knew Heather to help Tyla know more about her mom as she gets older. If you want to help, check out the site.
So, the funeral went well. It was well attended and Heather looked beautiful. I was proud of Staci. She did quite well with everything. The slideshow we worked on turned out great and now we're working on a book for Tyla (Heather's little girl). We are gathering letters from people who knew Heather to help Tyla know more about her mom as she gets older. If you want to help, check out the site.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Why a blog now....
Erin and Suzanne - thanks for the comments about the color scheme. It looks just fine on my computer, but I hadn't been able to check it on others. Let me know if this is any better. Much like me, this blog is a work in progress!
So, I thought I would write a little about what really helped me decide to start writing in a blog again. Yes, Erin's "whatever happened to" email put the thought in my mind, but ultimately, I decided to blog as a result of death of another member of my YSA Branch.
Heather Davis and I have known each other for 10 years. When I moved to Texas from Louisiana, Heather was in The Colony 1st Ward with me and we attended and graduated from The Colony High School together as well. We weren't in the same crowd, but we had our times together in Laurels and at other church activities. I didn't keep in touch and to be honest, when she first came to C4, I was a little concerned. I hadn't realized how much animosity I had harbored since 16 for her and the group of girls that I felt had left me out. I talked to my mom and wondered how I had let that eat away at me for so long. I decided to let the past be just that and go on and try again. We didn't ever become close or even really hang out, but for me, I felt like I had been able to let go and that made all the difference in my ability to serve her as the Relief Society President.
On Friday, while at lunch with her little girl Tyla and Tyla's dad Teddy, Heather collapsed. She never regained consciousness. On Saturday, Staci Poss told me all about it and I hurried to the hospital to be there with her and her family. Apparently, Heather had an aneurysm in her brain which bled out. Saturday, the doctors told her family that she was already gone - the machines were keeping her mortal body functioning. Her family decided to wait to turn off life support until her sister could come from California. In that time, they also decided to donate her organs. What a wonderful gift in a tragic circumstance!
Staci and I left Saturday to go take care of Tyla. We picked her up and brought lots of treats. Tyla instantly won my heart. We sang songs all the way home and she even gave me hug before I left. What a sweetheart! On Sunday morning, Staci called me because Tyla had cut her foot pretty bad and probably needed stitches. I threw on church clothes in the hope that I would be able to at least partake of the sacrament in all of the goings and comings of the day (which I did), and headed over to Urgent Care. I was the human papoose! I got to hold Tyla down while the doctor gave her shots to numb her foot and put 5 stitches in. What fun! I almost got a needle in my eye. The highlight of the morning for everyone was when Tyla was crying and screaming "Kaycee get off of me!" I'm a big meanie, but she forgave me when the doctor told me she was done and I gave her some lip gloss. Who knew lip gloss was the cure-all? Tyla also cleaned out Target with Staci and Kirby while Susie picked up her antibiotic. That little girl is so loved.
On Sunday, we went back to the hospital. While there, I noticed that one of Teddy's family members was reading the Ensign I had left the day before. What article? "Families Can Be Together Forever" from June 2008! That was neat for me. I had felt prompted to leave it by the lunch we had brought the day before and to see a tender mercy extended in such a time was a testimony builder for me of Heavenly Father's love for each of us.
Heather was declared deceased at 10:27 a.m. Sunday, August 3, 2008 in Fort Worth, TX. The machines were left on until Monday though while all the required testing could be completed to find recipients. Currently, the date for the funeral has not been set, but the C4 Branch will be responsible. When I first met with Sister Hennefer for my training as the Relief Society President, I remember her saying that the RS is responsible for certain things following the death of a ward member. She said if that were to ever happen, I could call, but we didn't need to go into depth with that because "it's the singles." Two weeks and two deaths in the RS and I'm becoming far too familiar with what the responsibilities are. It's been very different from the other things I do day-to-day, but it has helped me recognize the importance of those daily happenings, in my personal life, with my family, at work, and serving in my calling.
In all of this, I keep thinking how important it is to live today because we never know what will happen tomorrow. I know that with death everything is not lost, but that there is hope in Christ for even more glorious blessings. Because the Savior lived and died and was resurrected, I know that Heather, and everyone who has lived, will be resurrected too someday. We can be with our families forever and live with God again. Heather will be missed, but I know that I will see her again.
So, I thought I would write a little about what really helped me decide to start writing in a blog again. Yes, Erin's "whatever happened to" email put the thought in my mind, but ultimately, I decided to blog as a result of death of another member of my YSA Branch.
Heather Davis and I have known each other for 10 years. When I moved to Texas from Louisiana, Heather was in The Colony 1st Ward with me and we attended and graduated from The Colony High School together as well. We weren't in the same crowd, but we had our times together in Laurels and at other church activities. I didn't keep in touch and to be honest, when she first came to C4, I was a little concerned. I hadn't realized how much animosity I had harbored since 16 for her and the group of girls that I felt had left me out. I talked to my mom and wondered how I had let that eat away at me for so long. I decided to let the past be just that and go on and try again. We didn't ever become close or even really hang out, but for me, I felt like I had been able to let go and that made all the difference in my ability to serve her as the Relief Society President.
On Friday, while at lunch with her little girl Tyla and Tyla's dad Teddy, Heather collapsed. She never regained consciousness. On Saturday, Staci Poss told me all about it and I hurried to the hospital to be there with her and her family. Apparently, Heather had an aneurysm in her brain which bled out. Saturday, the doctors told her family that she was already gone - the machines were keeping her mortal body functioning. Her family decided to wait to turn off life support until her sister could come from California. In that time, they also decided to donate her organs. What a wonderful gift in a tragic circumstance!
Staci and I left Saturday to go take care of Tyla. We picked her up and brought lots of treats. Tyla instantly won my heart. We sang songs all the way home and she even gave me hug before I left. What a sweetheart! On Sunday morning, Staci called me because Tyla had cut her foot pretty bad and probably needed stitches. I threw on church clothes in the hope that I would be able to at least partake of the sacrament in all of the goings and comings of the day (which I did), and headed over to Urgent Care. I was the human papoose! I got to hold Tyla down while the doctor gave her shots to numb her foot and put 5 stitches in. What fun! I almost got a needle in my eye. The highlight of the morning for everyone was when Tyla was crying and screaming "Kaycee get off of me!" I'm a big meanie, but she forgave me when the doctor told me she was done and I gave her some lip gloss. Who knew lip gloss was the cure-all? Tyla also cleaned out Target with Staci and Kirby while Susie picked up her antibiotic. That little girl is so loved.
On Sunday, we went back to the hospital. While there, I noticed that one of Teddy's family members was reading the Ensign I had left the day before. What article? "Families Can Be Together Forever" from June 2008! That was neat for me. I had felt prompted to leave it by the lunch we had brought the day before and to see a tender mercy extended in such a time was a testimony builder for me of Heavenly Father's love for each of us.
Heather was declared deceased at 10:27 a.m. Sunday, August 3, 2008 in Fort Worth, TX. The machines were left on until Monday though while all the required testing could be completed to find recipients. Currently, the date for the funeral has not been set, but the C4 Branch will be responsible. When I first met with Sister Hennefer for my training as the Relief Society President, I remember her saying that the RS is responsible for certain things following the death of a ward member. She said if that were to ever happen, I could call, but we didn't need to go into depth with that because "it's the singles." Two weeks and two deaths in the RS and I'm becoming far too familiar with what the responsibilities are. It's been very different from the other things I do day-to-day, but it has helped me recognize the importance of those daily happenings, in my personal life, with my family, at work, and serving in my calling.
In all of this, I keep thinking how important it is to live today because we never know what will happen tomorrow. I know that with death everything is not lost, but that there is hope in Christ for even more glorious blessings. Because the Savior lived and died and was resurrected, I know that Heather, and everyone who has lived, will be resurrected too someday. We can be with our families forever and live with God again. Heather will be missed, but I know that I will see her again.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Kaycee's back to blogging
So, I had a blog a while ago on Xanga. I think the last post was in Spring 2006. With all the stuff that's been happening in my life, I figure it's time to begin again.
If you think that this blog will have tons of deep, thought-provoking ideas, guess again. Really, I just wanted a place to keep people up-to-date with the goings and comings of one Kaycee Renee. I think I stopped blogging because I'm a very personal person (that's funny) - personal in that I don't necessarily like to share my business with the world. I realize the benefit of having a place to keep everything organized though, so I'm back to blogging.
What this blog is:
Enjoy!
Much Love,
Kaycee
If you think that this blog will have tons of deep, thought-provoking ideas, guess again. Really, I just wanted a place to keep people up-to-date with the goings and comings of one Kaycee Renee. I think I stopped blogging because I'm a very personal person (that's funny) - personal in that I don't necessarily like to share my business with the world. I realize the benefit of having a place to keep everything organized though, so I'm back to blogging.
What this blog is:
- A place for me to tell everyone what's going on
- A journal that won't get lost in my church bag or behind my bed
- My attempt to follow Elder Ballard's counsel to share my testimony with the world through the electronic media
- Erin misses my craziness posted in electronic form where she can read it on her snazzy IPhone.
- A place for you to tell everyone what's going on (get your own blog!!! :)
- A place for me to share ALL of my thoughts and feelings (sorry folks- that's for that journal lost behind the bed or the bottom of the bottomless church bag)
- A diatribe about religions of the world (see the 11th Article of Faith)
- My personal correspondence with my Erin-friend - all are welcome to enjoy my craziness!
Enjoy!
Much Love,
Kaycee
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