My Little Rant...

I don't know the person who made that video or who put it together but I think it gives us rare glimpse of what that day was like and the aftermath that had/has spiraled since that tragic day. I can't imagine what it would have felt like to actually witness that in person or to have family fall victims to this event.

 I do remember what the country was like that  day and the few days after...we rallied together and became "one nation under God" for the first time in a long time could we say we WERE the UNITED States of America. The world is spiraling out of control...people are fighting over the stupidest things instead of fighting for things that REALLY matter. I don't know who said it (maybe Lincoln?) but the saying "united we stand divided we fall" is more than just a saying...it is a truth that is becoming more and more real as the days start to go by.  I don't often get political or very spiritual on here because it is not my style or my thing and I don't understand politics enough to even comment on them but I do know this. I know that our great nation, the nation that has survived two world wars, a depression, fighting the mental effects of Vietnam, where thousands of people died for their country and what they believed our country to stand for, is going to hell in a hand basket.

We live in a nation where God is being taken to court to be removed from anything that has to do with the government because of civil rights and people getting offended by it. This great nation was founded on religion and prospered under the blessing of God. Our forefathers held those beliefs to be self evident and sacred and 237 years later we are destroying their vision. We are nitpicking at the wording of documents that are of historical and significant value. We are changing and abolishing laws that were set in place for a reason but society (and dare I say the government) has grown so corrupt and for what? Power...it seems to be the new currency around here. 

Playing Catch Up

If you have been reading my new blog that follows the adventures of my new married life, then this post will sound sort of like a broken record. 

The past week has been somewhat crazy to say the least. The good thing about this week is I got 95% of the wedding thank yous done and sent out. Feeling pretty good about that considering the hand cramp I was getting. Hoping to get the rest out by the end of the week. *let us cross our fingers*

So let me catch you up on what has been going on...if I miss anything hope on over to Our Crazy Life Together and that should fill in any of the blanks.

Last Sunday we sort of played hookie on the Sabbath...I mean we went to church but afterwords we left and I got to spend some time with Mark just having fun in downtown SLC. I don't know what it was I just felt that we needed to get away from the apartment and him away from the craziness of work and just have some fun.

 So we ended up eating some really good pizza at the Pie, which the original Pie location is in the basement of college pharmacy but we found some closer ones to us that aren't as dark and cool but we could at least see our food and get our own refills. 

Then we headed to the Gateway and to the Clark Planetarium. It was like being a kid again. Will definitely be going back to see one of their light shows that are set to some music. But then we ended the night with some Ben and Jerry's and The Dark Knight Rises in IMAX. Which is funny in and of itself because the IMAX theater is in the Planetarium part (even though the megaplex in connected to it) we were on the planetarium side of the wall waiting for the show and the planetarium was closing. Yes, Mark and I were locked in by a fence in a closed Planetarium. We were finally able to get to the theater side to get like popcorn when someone had walked through the double doors (which the handles were only on the theater side of the door). It was odd and kinda creepy.

So that was Sunday, then Friday we went in and signed a lease agreement for a basement apartment in our ward that had come available. I guess this couple had bought a house and decided to rent out the basement so they had been getting it ready for renters and we were lucky enough to hear about it and since we were already members of the same ward and they knew and liked Mark (we were working on renting that place before we were married) and knew what type of person he was, they were happy to rent to us. So we signed the papers and now are waiting to get the keys. They are doing some lock changes and water heater stuff first and then we will be moving in. Not sure of the date but we hope by the end of the month. I would like to be settled in before school starts up for me on the 8th of October. At least now this will give me something to do while Mark is at work. 

Then Friday night we decided that we would hit a temple session Saturday after he got off work and we ended up at the Salt Lake Temple. A first for me. It is so much more different seeing live action instead of a movie...I will leave it at that. I did have to bite my tongue more than once but was quickly able to gain composure when I started looking at the history and the artwork of that temple. 

So the beginning of this week....hmm...had home teachers over for the first time and if I didn't know any better, I would say the one has an I.V. of coffee dripped into his veins everyday. Oh my gosh he made me tired just listening to him. Nice guy, has family (an aunt and uncle who is a dentist up in Poky) I found out from Poky who just happened to live in the ward that was severely affected by the Charlotte fire. But like I said, extremely nice and friendly just is a body full of energy!

So then Monday, yesterday, came and hit me with a huge migraine which I hadn't had for a while but it hit me right as a huge thunderstorm hit. Yeah, thunder, lightening, kids screaming, hail...didn't mix to well with the headache...soon the power was out. Yeah for four and a half hours I was in darkness. Two hours of that I was by myself since Mark was at work. Told him about it and we left to Jordan's Landing to get good and candles since we were not sure how long the power outage was going to last. 

Dinner was Chic-fil-a the first time I had been to one...I now know that my body doesn't like their spicy pepper jack chicken sandwich...spending the night in the WC by candlelight isn't that romantic. Luckily the lights came on about 30-40 minutes after we got home. Made me realize how much I truly rely on power....thank you power company for working to restore it. Maybe when I get more items for times like this gathered I will better like those moments. Sigh...well that be it for the update...pretty sad really...nothing to exciting to go on! Until next time!

Oh Give Me A Home...Ward.

Today was my first Sunday in a new ward. I have only ever been to two new wards in my life up until today, the first was the small branch that I was in when I lived up North and the other was when I ventured out (don't know what I was thinking) to the singles ward for 5 months. 

When I think of a ward, I think of my home ward that I grew up in. There were times when I couldn't stand half of the people that lived in our ward boundaries and there were some that I just didn't get along with...needless to say it was MY home ward. I spent around 25 years of my life growing up in. Some of the members there had watched me grow up since I was knee high to a grasshopper. I have to admit I was sad to walk into my new ward and not see all the familiar, sweet faces of those that I have known pretty much my entire life. Like the sweet elderly couple who sit on the front of the back section of the chapel and listening to the high squeak pitch of this brother's hearing aid go off, or sitting and chatting with them for a few moments. Or the former bishop who every time he sees me he tells me how I was the first child in primary to beat him in reading the Book of Mormon back in like the late 80's early 90's. 

Sigh...but luckily for me, the church is pretty much the same anywhere you go. The people may change but the church itself is still the constant variable in the equation. Wow, did I just use a math analogy to make a point? SCARY!!! I do have to give my new ward some credit. The few people that I did manage to have a conversation with were extremely nice and friendly. Others (like me) seemed to put off a very impersonal vibe. I know this because I am often called out on it myself. I am just shy and hate to be the center of attention in a situation where I know NO ONE. It did bring me a lil comfort to know that there are people in the ward who have lived in Poky or the surrounding area or have family currently living there. At least that was the start of some common ground between us. 

I am sure that I will loosen up and find my self involved at some point (and no I will not be sucked in and become a Utah Mormon...I HAVE STANDARDS!!!- that was for you big bro, just a lil friendly assurance). I think that all I will need is some time and being involved in and on my own terms...I just don't want to feel like I am  being forced. Get what I mean?

That being said that was my Sunday adventures. Oh, FYI, before I forget, the chicken that I made last night turned out really yummy. I think I would increase the citrus and cut down a little on the Thyme and Oregano as they seemed to over power the rest of the flavors. Still yummy...I think I will have to keep that one for another time...even though it was made for the George Foreman grill, you could definitely cook it on a regular grill or even a pan...still would be yummy! I also broke out my kitchen aid mixer that my in-laws gave us as a wedding gift and made drop sugar cookies...yummy recipe but I think I over mixed the batter while trying to get the rest of the ingredients in OR it is the older oven that I have no idea what the exact temperature that it cooks at or when it is preheated properly but since it looks like we will be moving out of this apartment, I am not too concerned at getting a oven thermometer. 

So there you have it...my weekend in a nut shell....laters!

First day alone...

Yes, it is my first day alone in the apartment by myself since Mark had to head back to work today and I let him have the car. I figured as long as he had the car, I wouldn't have to drive anywhere or get myself into any trouble...I mean HELLO HOBBY LOBBY!!!

LOL...seriously I have enough here at the apartment to occupy myself with for the next 8 or so hours such as cleaning, organizing (although I don't know how much I should be doing of that last one since we will be packing and moving hopefully before the end of the month) and getting Thank You cards out to everyone who deserves one. Then if I get that all done (which I am sure I won't because you can only write soo many cards before your hand cramps I might install my digital scrapbooking program and create some much needed as I am behind handouts for my LDS blogs. 

For dinner tonight I am trying out a new recipe that came from HERE that Mark found which does sound pretty good. So I will have to let you know how that turns out for us. Still not sure what I am going to serve it with though...sides were never my strong suit so we shall see. Will post pics though either through here or on our family blog which you can find HERE.

Laters!

Welcome to the Land of...

That is correct, I have officially crossed the state line from my beautiful and somewhat peaceful Idaho to the busy, crowded, makes me feel slightly claustrophobic of Utah. Such a bittersweet moment as we were approaching that sign...mainly because I am still an Idaho girl at heart but at the same time I was beginning a new adventure that is opening a lot of opportunities for me. 

Not sure what all is going to happen but whatever it is we will get through it. We are eagerly awaiting confirmation of moving into a new apartment which both Mark and I are super excited to do...his current place where we are staying for the moment is a little small for the two of us. The apartment we are waiting for is a larger two bedroom for around the same price that we are currently paying for now. 

I am trying to set up a home knowing full well that in just a matter of days/weeks I could be packing it all up and moving again. Kinda a little annoying knowing that but it will be OK...

That is pretty much my life right at the moment. Just trying to stay true to my Idaho roots while living in a Utahan world. The ward that I have just moved into is eager to meet me and I was informed the day of my wedding that my records were already being requested (uh oh...that scares me) so we shall see. I have only ever attended one Utah ward and that was an experience and a half, I have never seen so many people in one chapel in my life let alone in a Sunday School class...I don't know how I will ever remember names...sigh...

My last bit of advice before I leave ya for the day....potatoes...eat only IDAHO potatoes...they are the best in the world!

It's The Final Count Down!!

Can't you just hear the opening strains of Europe's song in your head when you read that title? Yeah, me too... =) but the title is accurate in informing us that it is the final count down to me going from a Miss to a Mrs. (Scary!!!) Yes folks, in just 5.5 days I will be married to my best friend and shortly thereafter will be surviving what some might say is the Mormon Capital of the world...yes I will be moving to Utah and officially becoming what I, and many others not from Utah, a U-tard and/or a Utah Mormon. 

I don't know if I could handle that...I am partial to the Idaho Mormon myself and I don't think I could ever admit to being anything other than that =D. I wonder what the profile of "Utah Mormon" is and what characteristics would I have to possess to be tagged as a "Utah Mormon?" Hmm...yeah let's not think about that. 

Anyway, there has been a lot going around my house this last few weeks trying to prepare for it all...my wedding would definitely be categorized as  DIY (that is do it yourself in case you didn't know) wedding and I am proud of that. I don't need nor want anything big and flashy and expensive. If I can't recreate it or do it on the cheap side and not have it still come out looking great and elegant then I don't need it. Besides that is a lot of money to be wasting away on just a few hours worth of fun and hey, let us be honest, if your the bride or groom, how much do you really get to enjoy of it?? I mean you have to be sociable and greet and thank everyone who shows up and heaven forbid if you don't speak to EVERYONE because you will always hear about it. What about refreshments? You spend all that money and how much of it do you actually get to enjoy your self? Little if any at all. Then if you are a perfectionist you are worried about everyone else who is helping out if they are doing their job correctly! And at the same time praying that NOTHING BAD OR UNEXPECTED happens. Yeah not a big fan of surprises...especially if they are not good surprises. 

But as the title suggests we are in the last stretch or the 9th hour or whatever it is they say. This week will focus on mints, packing, finishing with final touches on wedding clothes and decor...crazy  crazy crazy! Anyone want me to be guinnea pig for multiplying someone as to accomplish EVERYTHING that there is to do? Yes, I accept!!!!

So if you don't hear from me until for a while you know why! Hope to see ya there! Oh and be sure to follow Mark's and I's family blog for all the fun highlights of the wedding and our life together!

New Blog!!!!

Yup that is right, I have started a new blog. I thought that since so many new changes are happening in my life that I should share it with all of you!

Don't worry though, I will still be updating this one with new stuff so you will want to stick around for those but I urge you to head on over to OUR CRAZY LIFE TOGETHER and see what has been happening for Mark and I!

It's Getting To Be That Time

The clock is starting to tick down the minutes until I officially go from a Miss to a Mrs.. No matter how you say it, time is of the essence and I think I am running out of it. 

For the last few weeks  lets get real more like the last few days... I have been trying to get through all the crap that I have accumulated in the five years that has landed into my little 12x12 room (or how ever big it is). Needless to say I have yet to sleep in the middle or left side of my bed and you can barely walk around the room due to the presence of totes and boxes and things to get rid of in some shape of form. To make things a little bit more complicated, as I am packing, I have to start determining what is essential enough for me to move down to Utah with as the apartment that I will be living in isn't exactly the Taj Maj Hall. However, the silver lining in that is that at least Mark and I will be close together AND we will be looking at some other apartments in his current complex that are bigger to move into. So hopefully its not too long before I can be reunited with more than just the important stuff. 

So on top of all the packing I am still in the middle of finalizing wedding details for our ceremony and reception. This has placed a little bit more of a stress on me because Mark and I will already be married by the time the ring ceremony and reception comes around.   I am glad we are doing the ring exchange because it allows for those who were unable to be in the temple with us as we were married and sealed and those who might not have been able to make the 45 minute drive north due to work or other problems, that they can still feel included in the whole wedding ceremony too. 

And if you have any knowledge of LDS marriages and ring ceremonies you will know that a ring ceremony is not like your standard civil marriage. From what I have read and talked with people on it, it reminds me being at a baptism. You have the opening and closing prayers, a musical number, a talk by the bishop or who ever, a few words by some friends and family and/or the bride and groom themselves and then you have the exchange of the rings. That is it! Bing, bang boom your done! So this little ceremony we have set up in the Relief Society Room at the church which gives another space in which to make somewhat decorated and coherent to the rest of the decorations. 

I believe after much searching the world wide web and Pinterest (I don't know what I did before that dream site)I think I have found the answer to my prayers...I think. All I know that is this whole thing has me just a little stressed out and I know (and my family can attest to this) when I am stressed, I am grumpy and short...when that happens I tend to make everyone else that way. Don't know why but it always seems to happen and tensions start to run high. At this point...come August 18th, I just might sleep or die...which ever might happen from the exhaustion. 

Too funny not to share!!

Watch "The Muppets - Bohemian Rhapsody" on YouTube

It Is Still HOT...Ugh!!!

Yes, it is still hot as Hades here in the city. Was relieved when it rained a few days ago...I really enjoyed those cooler temps. Almost makes me wish we had some snow...almost.

Life has been been crazy but quiet. A lot has been going on trying to get ready for my wedding that is less than four weeks away. Still have plenty to try and get accomplished. Mainly packing is the big item on that list. I pretty much have the center pieces for the table all set...I might color some more rice just in case...maybe tomorrow?? I will have to post pics of the process or do a little tutorial or something and show you guys what it looks like.  I originally had teal decor rocks but they were slightly larger than I had anticipated so I went with the rice option instead. The reception is nothing formal...it will look like it I think a little bit when you walk in but when you get close you will see why I say it is more casual than formal. 

Then there is the issue of the cake. Instead of a cake, we had opted to go cupcakes since they were smaller and a lot easier to serve to people. We had talked about two different kinds but my cupcake guru who I have been having this conversation with might be having to change her plans which will cause me to change plans and baker. That is a little unnerving as I don't know who I would turn to. I would do it myself but that is a lot of baking, in a non a/c home in the middle of 90+ degree weather. I am already making the chocolate mints which will be a big undertaking in and of itself. 

I know I am sounding like I am complaining but I am not. I think it is more of me creating a to do list. If I type it out, I am expressing my thoughts which in return help me see what I still need to do. And there is a lot more! Like a ring ceremony! And a new temple recommend interviews! Whew...but it will come together, I know it...it will, right?

Oh yeah, I have a new craft project that I am going to be working on and guess what it involves? Spray paint! Yup that is right...I am going to be "painting the roses red" or I guess in my case teal...lol. Sorry had to get a little Alice in Wonderland moment out of my system. This should be fun! I am hoping that it will turn our ok and go with the image I have in my head...if not, it could be disaster! At least it will be fun though! If you go to my parent's outside back porch, you will already see faded white spray paint marks from previous projects for camp.

Oh, I hate to say this, but I sorta am missing not going to girls camp this year. I admit I am not an avid camper. I hate being dirty and the heat but I love camping non the less. We had a great group of young women that made it worth the negative parts. The new camp director that took my spot keeps telling me whenever I see her that she is nervous about taking my spot and that she doesn't have all the neat things that I have for the girls this year. She is a wonderful, creative lady but I still wish I was there. I know...I know...But I guess my being released was a blessing in disguise because planning  a wedding and girls camp at the same time would have been chaotic! Not that I couldn't have done it, but it would have made life a little bit stressful. 

Well I guess I should close the post...been thinking about remaking my blog over and updating it a bit...but I am sure that is going to have to wait! Until next time!

It's Getting HHHHOOOTTT In Here

Who in their right mind would want to have triple digit temperatures! Yes, my little piece of heaven in the middle of a river  plain got to 100 degrees today. Then the few days prior to today was in the upper 90's...yeah Audrey is not a happy camper. I am a mountain weather type of girl...give me upper 60's lower 70's and I am a happy otter. 

Anyway, moving on from the heat wave. Summer has finally arrived for me! Yes, I have survived my two summer classes and can I just say, I passed with A's!!! Yup, that is right I managed to get an A in Anatomy and Physiology in just 8 weeks. Again this made for a happy otter. I am currently negotiating with UCMT to start their program in October. Still waiting on my enrollment application. Should be getting a phone call from the rep I have been working with tomorrow. I had to fax in my high school diploma to them before they could process my FAFSA. Crazy...it's been 10 years since I graduated and yet they want to see my diploma. Oh well, I guess they know what they are doing. Sort of nervous but excited at the same time. Once I get into the program however, I can be done in about 8 months and then like another month or so for their master body worker program. So in a year, I could be done with schooling and have a diploma/certificate.

So speaking about school reminds that in a little over 30 days I will be getting married! Nervous but super excited about that. There is lots to do to pull everything together. I still have to finish putting the center pieces together, finalizing the baker, getting a new temple recommend, a marriage license, packing and making mints because someone sort of backed out of it (long story that doesn't need to be told at this time). Plus there is still the duty of finding a few willing souls to help with getting refreshments out and what 

not.  Sigh...all in a days work, but it can be done and it will be done.

It has to get done. But I am POSITIVE that it will all come out A-OK in the end. 

Anyway, that is an update on my life....Im going to go melt into bed. Night Night!

It's Getting Closer

What a busy summer this has become! Between planning a wedding (50 days to go!) and trying to complete to classes in 8 weeks life has just been a little crazy. Not to mention a family reunion, other family members visiting, doctors appoints and ear infections. Let's just say that I am glad that there hasn't been much more go on! 

So as I mentioned before the summer semester or at least the first 8 weeks (and I am lucky that both of my classes are in the first 8 week group) for those that are attending ISU all summer long, is coming to a close next week. Yup that means it's finals week. Crazy! But as it appears, it would seem that I only have one final exam which is to be taken online and is three hours long. That final will mark what will be my last semester at ISU. Once I am married I will be moving to Utah where I am hoping to get into the College of Massage Therapy in Salt Lake. They have two semester starts for the program. One in July and the other in October. With any luck, I will be able to start classes back up in October. Until then, I am not sure what I will do in my spare time. I know it will be a much welcomed break from having to take classes but we shall see, won't we?

Wedding plans are coming along just great. At times it has been frustrating trying to get things planned because, even though it is mine and Mark's day, we still get outside advice from those around us, who I know is just trying to be polite. I get it, I really do but there are days...yeah we will just leave it at that. 

Did a lot of shopping this week. Most of it was for the reception. Bought all the table covers, napkins, glasses, center pieces, etc...still need to decide on how we are going to greet people. We just want something casual and fun...nothing to formal. Might have to do a little pinterest surfing and see if I can find some cute but fun ideas to use...hmmm.

Oh and my mom and I found the perfect shoes that will go great with my wedding dress! They are flat and cute and comfy to boot! Since I was probably going to be on my feet all day, I wanted something that was going to work for me and that I didn't have to take off. Since I am not having a long dress I couldn't go barefooted, I don't think that it would have been appropriate. Oh that reminds me of my skirt. My aunt is helping me sew it together. My first big sewing project. The material is so stinking cute too! Now if only I could find the perfect top to go with it. Guess there is more shopping to do!

Been starting to sort and go through stuff in my room and packing up my things. I just packed the top shelf of one of my book cases and started to tear up a little. It will be a new exciting adventure in my life story but at the same time it is bitter sweet. *sigh* will be hard in the upcoming weeks but it will also be good for me as well I think. 

I will have to keep you all posted on that progress.

It's Been A While

It indeed has been some time since I last took a few minutes to update the world on what is going on in my little piece of it. School has been keeping me busy as well as being over my mom's eye drop schedule (she recently had both of her eyes worked on...) and fighting a severe ear infection that came back even though I was on antibiotics earlier in the month.

Anyway, as I was logging in on the net to find some ideas on what I should do for my lesson, I realized that I have not been great at updating my LDS blogs! SHAME ON ME!!! What I thought I could do during the summer while in school I am finding out I can't do all that well. However, I might just try to sneak in a handout out or lesson plan here and there and then maybe, just maybe I might find myself caught up on everything!

Oh good news! As most of you are aware I am engaged to be married. However, before that could/can happen, I have to be unsealed from my previous spouse. I have spent the later part of April getting paper worked signed, letters written, meetings with my priesthood authorities and finally as on the 26th of May, my letter from Salt Lake finally came and my petition of cancellation has been granted! So plans are now being made for a wedding on August 17th! That is less than 3 months away! Can you believe that?!?

Anyway, that is what is new with me at the moment...between school, family and planning a wedding...my life doesn't get much more exciting that this!

What A Week...

and I am sure glad that it is almost over. Yikes, I feel like I have been all over the place. It was the first week of the summer semester and let me just say that it has been, um....awkward. In one of my classes I am one of two students and up until today I have been the only student attending the class...even more of an awkward moment and next week it will be the same thing. And as much as I love the one on  one, I miss the benefit of having others in the class to help facilitate a discussion. Needless to say it has been interesting and a lot of out of school studying (more so than usual). However, I am finding it interesting. The good thing is with this smaller class size...we are not meeting nearly as often and instead of four days a week we will be meeting two days a week! This will be nice.

Also what is happening in Audrey's world, Mark and I spent Tuesday evening having engagement pictures taken. My sister in law was kind enough to take them and they were pretty cute...would have been better if our eyes would have communicated with the camera more of when they decided to blink. Oh well, they still came out good and we found two to use for a wedding announcement. Which I might add I have personally designed with the help of my better half and as soon as we get the go ahead from SLC, we will get them ready to be sent out and I might even share with all of you (you are out there, right?) on here when the date can officially be announced. 

I will try my best to keep you posted on the details and what is going on. That is if I can remember to take a few minutes and update cyber world (I feel bad I have slacked on a few of my LDS blogs) whenever I get a spare to do so. Maybe there will be pictures   too along the way...you never know with me. 

Alright my fellow readers, I am taking my exhausted brain/body to bed...lots of studying to do in the morning. Good night y'all!

A Break...sort of

Hey everyone...its me again. Finals are finally over and done and let me just say I couldn't be happier! However, I am going to have to put a hold on my summer vacation as I am going to summer school and it starts on the 14th. This is a good thing though. I am getting my pre-requistes out of the way so that I can get into my program (praying I get in this coming fall....as that would awesome!).

Life has been pretty crazy over the last few weeks because of school and thinking about things needing to be done for the wedding...even though we don't have the OK yet from SLC we are still trying to get things planned and started so when the time comes we can put it all into stone. But things are coming along good, we still have a little bit of time to talk some things over. After all we both want something that is simple and fun....neither one of us are big "hey look at me" type of people.

Oh speaking of fun...my aunt came down today and she helped me get started on making my "wedding dress." We measured and cut on a pattern (my first one) and then went fabric shopping...we found some super cute and fun prints that will definitely match our "theme" (even though we really don't have one...LOL).

Life is good...I can live with that.

A little early late night post of sorts...

So it isn't very often that I blog from my phone but hey, when your restless and can't sleep...what a girl to do right? So here I am blogging to who ever might be reading this instead of trying to get my sleep and if you know anything about me....I love my sleep!!!
So I left off a bit with my current situation of getting my sealing cancelled. Its been sort of bitter sweet for me this week as I wrote and finished my letter to the First Presidency. I was fair and honest. I admitted things that we both did wrong in our marriage so its not like I threw my ex husband completely under the bus. There were a lot of things that I could have included or complained about but choose not too. As hard and difficult as it was to compose this letter, emotionally it was easier than I thought it would be. Maybe its due to the passing of time or the fact that I have recalled those days and memories often enough that I am numb to them or maybe I forgive him more than I know. I dont know for sure but I am glad that the letter is written and ready to turn in to the bishop on Sunday.
With any luck his letter will be completed and he can turn the paper work into my stake president and we can move on to the final steps of the process.
Oh did I mention my bishop did make contact with the ex? He gave his blessing for the cancellation as promised. It has been one of the few promises that he ever made to me that he kept. So can I just say that i am ready for Sunday to come so i can get rid of that envelope that contains the letter.

Hey its me

So this post might look a little different than normal. That is because i am typing this post from my phone. What an interesting day this has been. I got to church and people wanted to see my ring and tell me congrats. Then as much as I tried to listen in church i just couldn't because our high council men who spoke were kinda dry and the little girl two rows up was being a cutie. Then after sacrament was over i got stopped again from people wanting to see my ring and tell me congrats and talk with me. I was almost late to my own class!
Ah that brings me to my Sunday school lesson. By Jove i think i have gotten through to them on some key gospel principles of the gospel. We played jeopardy with lesson topics and even though i had to coax some answers out of them...most of them had been paying attention to me.
Oh yeah, i had to meet with my bishop again. We went over the form that has to be filled out in regards to me being able to get married. We discussed what the next steps were and now it is my job to write a letter to the First Presidency of the Church about why i am divorced and why i am applying for a sealing cancellation. I am a little scared because i don't ever recall ever writing a formal letter let alone one that had to be professional in the sense of to the point. That part makes me nervous. Especially since it is for something so important and not to he taken very lightly.  Lord give me strength and inspiration when i start to write.
Well i should get ready for choir practice...i haven't touched the music for a couple of weeks now. Oh the joy!

What A Week!!!

Yikes! I can't believe everything that has gone on this week. So can I just say that I AM SOOOO GLAD THAT TODAY IS FRIDAY?!?! Oh come on you know you were thinking it *wink* 

So this week has been like I said a wowzer of a week. I don't know if I mention this in any of the last posts I did this week but on Sunday I met with my bishop to get the paper work started so I could get my temple sealing cancelled. I know big step for me and anyone who knows my story would almost agree. Needless to say that my bishop was excited for me and thinks that I am ready to make this step in my life and promised me that he would do all he could to make this an easy process for me. Those of you who have no idea what I am talking about or have never had to deal with one of these, they are not easy to do. My bishop has to fill out paper work and contact the ex spouse and then the three of you have to send a letter that goes right to the desk of the first presidency and I have to meet with the Stake President and yeah... there is A LOT of information that is needed to get this to happen. 

Like I said there was a lot of info needed and I worked with my bishop to get him the basic info on Sunday and then yesterday over the process of two phone calls between the two of us, we were able to get 99% of the information filled out and ready to go. The only thing that was missing was my planned *new* marriage date. And that might be a while as I am waiting for Mark to move up here to Poky and get settled in first and then there is the thing of scheduling as most of his family (well all really) lives out of state...we are talking as in California out of state and around his new work schedule and my school schedule. 

Oh and then to make matters worse, my bishop has to try and get a hold of my ex...yeah that might be a challenge since he wasn't to responsive to my email urging him to contact my bishop and pretty much gave what little info he wanted to share to me. Did I mention I don't have any current info on him for contact? Yeah, I wish my bishop luck on that one.

So that has been one event that has happened this week, another one was that I FINALLY heard from the vet yesterday on the results of Bailey's para-thyroid blood work. It came back normal but a certain kind of calcium was was a little high (i can't remember the word, it started with an "I" though) so she had turned to some internal medicine doctors (or whatever they are called) who have been working with her on Bailey over the year and they suggested that Bailey gets this really obscure Vitamin D test done as this could be the reason why she is showing high calcium levels. And to let you know how obscure this test is, my vet has never had to do it before because it just doesn't come up that often. Yeah so Bailey gets to be a guinea pig but I have confidence in my vet to know that everything will be alright. She, the vet, is going to call the lab in Michigan to see if they can run the test off the blood that was already drawn from Bailey that they have or if I have to take her in to have more blood drawn...yeah I don't see Bailey going for that one either. 

So its been an interesting week to say the least...and this is only the beginning. I still have to decide (and quick) what I am going to do with school. Do I take summer classes so that in case their is an opening coming up in the program that I can get in or do I risk not taking the classes and hope that there isn't an opening that I will end up kicking myself for. The reason I am debating is because I have already been accepted into the 2013 program BUT if there is an opening and I complete the pre-reqs before Aug...I can start earlier. Only problem is I am like #9 on the waiting list last I checked.  So...lots to think about, lots to look forward to and lots to do....stay tuned!

Oh My Gosh...PART 2

So here is the second part of my update (click HERE to be taken to the first part if you haven't read it already). This has to deal with the big news and trip that I took over spring break (BTW it was awesome to get to catch up on some sleep during the break!).

So the friday during spring break I headed down to the southern corner of Utah (Cedar City) with Mark to spend a couple days from life and to meet his parents. Let me tell ya it was a long drive in the dark (6.5 hours). Let me tell you, once you get past Provo there is NOTHING to really see...especially if you are going through the area in the dark. 

So here are some of the pics that I was able to take (most of them are in St. George some of them are in Cedar City- I don't know why I didn't take more while I was there but maybe I can talk someone into sharing their photos with me!)

This is from the bottom of Bryan Head Canyon on the way back down cause I was getting car sick

 Bottom of Bryan Head Canyon again...it is a lot taller than the pic gives credit for.

Picture of the temple while I was actually walking hence the awkward angle

 Of course this is the St. George Temple heading into the visitors center 

 The tower of the St. George Temple

 St. George Temple 

 One of the two identical stair wells that lead up to the temple

 I had no idea that they had beehives on the railings

 Nor did I know there were Palm trees down there on the temple grounds

 Flag pole at the temple

 Trying to get a cool shot of the flag waving in the wind...failed

 The St. George Temple

 I kinda like this one of the temple with the sun shining out 
behind it.

 Again same as above

 Hmm...I like this one.

 Another attempt to make a cool pic

 Would be good if the flag wasn't in the way

 Baby Palm!!!!

 Another baby Palm!

 Main entrance into the temple 

 Again main entrance to temple with fountain

 Close up of fountain and the entrance

 Closer image of fountain...oh they have a revolving door!

 Other side of fountain

 St. George Tabernacle

 Brigham City Temple....yeah wasn't expecting to see that coming through

 Construction site and view of the angel Moroni

 Same

 Angel Moroni on the top spire of the Brigham City Temple

 Brigham City Temple

 Another shot of the temple from a moving car

 Again the same as before

The Logan Temple with a pole in the way and very cloudy wet weather coming our way.
So there are the pictures of the trip...oh let me share one more (which isn't one that I took)

Now you are probably wondering why I have a picture of Red Robin (Provo's) on here....well this is the place where Mark chose to propose to me on April 1, 2012...yes April Fools on me. His plans were originally to hit up some scenic waterfall but weather was not exactly our friend as we hit everything driving up that way...it was a surprise and unexpected event...but needless to say that was the trip in a nut shell. Marks parents were absolutely nice and I enjoyed spending time with them and the trip itself was a great break from life. Will keep you updated on how things are going!

Oh My Gosh....

A lot has happened since I last updated this blog...I am a slacker on all 3 of my blogs *shame on me I know* but I am going to take some time to update you for a few...I might do this over the course of 2 posts so it doesn't seem SOOOO LONG and daunting to read. Sound like a plan? Yeah, I thought so too!

So first let me update you on how school is. After this year I have decided that I teaching is not my thing. Don't get me wrong I love teaching but the subjects that I am going to school for to teach are not what I am passionate about. I LOVE history but truth be told I LOVE english history during the dark ages. They just don't cover that in school (at least not here) and I am not a fan of English...in fact it was one of the few subjects that I didn't even really like (Math being the first and still is). 

So I have given a lot of thought over the last two semesters on if education is something that I really want to do with the rest of my life and it isn't. I love teaching but I will still have several opportunities to teach with the numerous church callings that I have and will have through out my life. That being said, I have been offered a place in the Massage Therapy Program (a definite for the 2013 but there is a small chance I might get in to the program this summer-mind you a slight chance if I get the pre-reqs and people drop). So I am excited about that. I have known some people who are massage therapists and it seems like an interesting career. I have always been amazed on how massage and simply the power of touch can heal and relieve stress.

 I know I have to get over my feet fetish but at this point it is doable and I have to face my fears sometime (besides it is way easier to face my fear of feet than it is to face my fear of spiders). It is also a health care job and I swore that I would never go into the medical field but thinking about it, my definition of medical field is in a hospital and deals with blood, needles, nurses and doctors. All the things I don't like.  So as of the end of this semester I am officially in the College of Technology up at ISU. 

Also, an update on Miss Bailey...we are back to running more tests. Her check up showed even higher levels of calcium in her system which is dangerous for her. So she had to go back in and have more blood work done and we are still waiting on the results to that. I am not sure I really want to know but at the same time I do. Hopefully something comes up that will shed some light on what is causing the rise of calcium in her body. Keep us both in your thoughts 

Anyway, I am going to continue this update in another post with a few pictures and stories from spring break!

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I Just HAD to Post This....

 

I just LOVED this song and Ren and Stimpy. Ahh...those were the good ol' days that I miss.

It's Friday!

So I am trying out a new blog look....its less pink than what it was earlier last night. I still need to go back and redo all the text colors but I am lazy and I just don't want to do it for the time. 

What a Friday it has been already! First of all I had read the wrong part of the assignment for my history of Golden Age Spain. Yeah, I read the article and NOT the actual story that I should have read. Good thing was that I had my laptop with me so I could pull it out and quickly skim the story. Doesn't help that the way it was posted on moodle was under the Spanish resources (you see this class is dual class both a history of Golden Age Spain AND Classic Spanish Literature). At least I wasn't the only one who was confused.

Which brings me to my next nightmare in that class: a presentation on race and religion in Spain during the Renaissance. This was a presentation that was suppose to be presented as a group of two, it has now been narrowed down to a presentation from a group of one...ME. Needless to say I wasn't exactly the happiest person when I saw that my partner had dropped the course (esp. when I saw him in my next class of Women in History/Feminism). So I get to make a 15 min. presentation next Friday by myself. Oh happy happy joy joy. 

SO just because I need a laugh I am going to share with you my perhaps favorite video on Youtube...Rob P.'s Pachelbel Rant!

Wasn't that fun??? I LOVE it...it makes me smile almost instantly.
So did I tell you that I am SO glad that it is Friday and the weekend is here?!? I see reading, rest and practicing the song for the choir for ward conference on Sunday and what ever else gets thrown my way. 
So I shall say fare thee well-until we meet again!
p.s. I have a craving for something sweet...

Whew...

Its been some time since I have sat down and updated this blog. A lot  has happened since I last updated. 


First thing is first...spring semester is already underway...the first month is almost completed and it has been interesting to say the least.
Sometimes I find my self saying "What the hell was I thinking?" then the feeling goes and sleep overcomes me. Yes, I LOVE LOVE LOVE to sleep and feel like I have not had enough of it (even though I have). Maybe my body is trying to play catch from girls camp last year??? 


Speaking of girls camp, two weeks ago I had a life changing conversation with a member of the bishopbric. I was getting released from both of my YW callings (if you remember I was camp director and 2nd counselor in the presidency). Yeah, not any more. I was all emotional. I was like a roller coaster with emotions. I was happy, sad, angry, pissed, jealous, envious, back biting, and bawling my eyes out.  Yeah, I loved that calling and I loved working and getting to know all of the girls. I think we were starting to really mesh together where I was getting use to them and they were getting use to me. So many changes that Sunday. However, I am not youth free...I was placed in Sunday School as the 12/13 year old teacher. My first lesson was last Sunday and it went well all things considering. So I get this coming Sunday off thanks to ward conference but I start back up again on fast Sunday. 


Life has been crazy in my world. I was so sad to see winter break....I loved my sleep!