Still Frames of My Mind...

A little skiing...

2012-02-11T18:25:00.001-07:00

This is how Friday nights are meant to be spent!

2012-02-06T22:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight I was in need of a little inspiration. I came across this great reminder on the MTH 2012 blog. If you have 5 minutes to spare, I HIGHLY recommend moseying on over - I promise it will rock your world.

I'm not Superwoman...

2012-02-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

During the end of December I began planning what I wanted my New Year's resolutions for 2012 to be. After a lot of thinking I decided that my main goal this year is to make decisions based on what's best for me. I have a tendency sometimes to make decisions based on what I think will either be best for other people, or will keep other people happy.

For the past month I've been almost forced to learn the lesson that I'm not Superwoman and that I can't do it all. Funny how we learn lessons we need to learn sometimes.

For almost the entire month of January I was sick with what I affectionately call 'Mystery Illness'. I was physically exhausted, mentally drained and had all sorts of aches, pains, and dizzy spells. The crazy part is when I went to the doctor's they found nothing wrong with me. My blood test came back regular, my temperature was only 1 degree above normal and my vitals were perfect.

During my bout of illness I came to the realization that I couldn't keep up my attempts to be everything for everyone. The first weekend I canceled two meetings, a snowshoeing trip, dinner at a friends and a few other items on my agenda. As my illness progressed I was forced to re-prioritize my time because I didn't have enough energy or capacity to do everything I needed.

Slowly, but surely - I began to realize that Dr. Mom was probably right when she made the diagnosis of 'Too much stress'.

At first I was angry. Angry that for whatever reason my body was too weak to handle stress, responsibility and all the things I felt like I needed to do. I was frustrated that I couldn't be what I wanted to be for everyone around me. But slowly I began to understand that the one person I wasn't taking care of was me.

I began to cut back, prioritize, and find some sort of balance again.

Now, I'm not there yet - but I'm getting there. I'm trying really hard to take King Benjamin's advice and not run faster than I have strength. (See Mosiah 4:27)

It's taken three weeks of illness, conversations with co-workers, my parents and concerned friends, two institute lessons and some time at the temple for me to really understand why balance is so important and what I need to do to have it in greater abundance in my life.

I'm beginning to understand better that we just need to do all we can do, and do it well. Then allow our Savior to help make up the rest.

In some ways I'm grateful I'm learning this lesson early on, that way I can hopefully apply the lesson more fully as I take on 2012 and aim to achieve my goal.

:)

Be the change...

2012-01-27T22:45:00.001-07:00

I came across this gem earlier this week during one of my nightly readings and decided to share.

What sorts of things do you think of when you think of change you'd like to see?

Back in action

2012-01-23T23:14:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to let you know - this girl is back in action.

I have been feeling exceptionally under the weather for the past 3 weeks and today was the first time in the past 20 days that I haven't felt icky!

Wahoo!! I'm hoping this re-found feeling of myself sticks around. It is quite dreadful being unable to function like a normal human.

Highlights.

2012-01-22T23:48:00.002-07:00

Nothing like a surprise cupcake to brighten your day!

It's been a while since I've shared some peaks of the week. This week was filled with a wide range spectrum of feelings and experiences, and I'm always grateful for the small tender mercies that make it all so much better.

Enjoy a few peaks of this past week!

Visiting with Suzie on Monday night
Starring as a hand model in another video shoot for a client
Going for Thai food at Simply Thai with Shaline
The weekly installment of Institute - Bro. Anderson never ceases to rock my world.
Eating cheesecake with Lem while talking to my mom
The nice nurses at Dr. Fillmore's office that made my visit (including the two blood draws) quite enjoyable.
Getting a surprise thoughtful text from my visiting teacher when I woke up Thursday morning
Alma 26:27
Company lunch at Costa Vida (Their mango salad dressing - DELICIOUS!)
The sandwich making interview theory put to use on an interviewee (totally an inside joke, but I'm putting it on here so I can always remember the interviewee's face)
The realization that I'm not superwoman. I finally have been forced to come to terms with the fact that yes, at some point I will need to slow down, take a break, do something for myself and find a balance.
Mosiah 4:27
Filling out my application for Mother's Without Borders
Watching Dennis the Menace curled up on Mom and Dad's bed with Mom on Friday night
Surprise chocolate milk on my desk...
Wearing sweat pants ALL. DAY. LONG.
Talking with an old friend for two hours about life, work, random simplicities and funny things.
Planning my upcoming week-long adventure with Shauna
The BIG. FAT. Snowflakes - even if they didn't stay around long
Many conversations, with many concerned people who are helping me understand that I need to find better balance, slow down and do something fun
A text from Dad that made me smile - it said, "Please call your wonderful kind thoughtful humble Father"
A surprise cupcake delivery from a dear friend
A really loooong hot shower
Curling up with a good book and not worrying about anything else


My lovely Saturday outfit of BYU-Idaho sweats and my striped thermal shirt

Happy fourth week of January to all of you. I'm really hoping this one's a good one for all of us!

But for a small moment...

2012-01-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

This week has been a whirlwind of learning, inspiration, tribulation and peace.

This morning mom and I went to a stake Relief Society meeting where Paul Cardall shared the above quote from Elder Maxwell. If there's one lesson that has overwhelmed me this week, it's the ability of the Lord to sustain, lead, bless and direct our lives. He is there. He will bless you. I am so very grateful for the knowledge that he is right beside me leading me along my customized path through life as I learn, grow, develop and strive to be more like Him.

He's there for you too - cheering you on as you wage your way through this wonderful adventure of life.

For some great reading, click here

And for a little listening enjoyment, click here

Grateful for every day.

2012-01-10T02:06:00.001-07:00

A little over a week ago my 82-year-old grandma was admitted to ICU with a severe case of pneumonia.

My Grandma is by far one of THE sweetest, most hard working, spunky, fun and lovely ladies you will ever meet. She has been a constant example of service, love and humor in my life since I was a little girl.

Having her in the hospital the past week has made me a little nervous. The last time one of my grandma's was admitted to the hospital for pneumonia, she passed away about 36 hours later.

If I'm being honest last week was one of the most interesting weeks I've had in a while. By Friday night I was worn out emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I got home late from work and was a little disheartened. As I sat on my parent's bed going through my email and winding down for the day I read an update from one of my aunts regarding the latest on Grandma's health. My aunt had spent the day at Grandma's bedside.

In the email I read stories about how Grandma was able to walk all the way around the nurses station (a major accomplishment considering she had been in a medically induced coma on Monday). About how she was busy telling the nurses all about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. My favorite part of the message came at the very end - it read,

"She was writing Grandpa messages tonight. She was telling him that Leslie needed to be called because her birthday is coming up! The last thing she wrote to him tonight was "grateful for every day." She has been suffering and enduring a lot, but her love for her family, her strong will and sense of humor are in tact. We are blessed. We come from amazing stock. She and Grandpa send their love to all of you."

As I read the words "Grateful for every day" I wept.

My grandma, as sick as she was - was teaching me a powerful lesson about gratitude.

No matter how hard, no matter how frustrating - we should find reasons to be grateful for every day - and ever since that moment on Friday night I've been trying extra hard to find reasons to be grateful.

Today I am oh so grateful, and I hope you are too!

Some of what we've been up to...

2012-01-01T21:47:00.003-07:00

The past two weeks at the Worthington household have been filled with parties, dance-off's, birthday celebrations, skyping with Adam from Brazil, more partying, delicious eats and lots and lots of family time.

I'm a bit sad to see it all come to a close, this time of year is always so fun! But, I've been spending the past couple days reflecting and planning - 2012 is going to be pretty awesome.

Keep your eyes out for a sock rocking blog post a little later this week sharing some of the details, but in the mean time - enjoy a few snapshots of what's been happening around our house.

Grandma, watching the special message we recorded from her missionary Adam when we Skyped with him from Brazil

Heather and her special edition David Archuleta magazine.

It's an inside joke, but yes - I got a copy of Sky Mall

Jenny showing off her fancy new bowls from Crate and Barrel

Chris with his awesome Sweden photo box

Mom's new sign for the laundry room

Shauna got a pooping penguin

Look what Santa brought Michael and Jenny...

Dad working on the annual Christmas puzzle!

Ringing in the new year the right way

Happy 2012! Here's to hoping this is the year of change, new adventure & happiness that I'm planning for!

Little gem...

2011-12-30T21:31:00.001-07:00

Today I was cleaning out my room and came across a post it note that contained a little gem of wisdom...

Little moments that make me smile...

2011-12-29T00:50:00.002-07:00

Today was one of those days where there were so many little things that were little reminders of the great life I live.

Among them are a breathtaking sunset, attending my very first full length ballet, the music of the nutcracker and the blessing of wonderful friends, family and co-workers that made today extra lovely.

I really like good days!

Chestnuts are roasting...

2011-12-23T12:38:00.002-07:00

So far today I've listened to all of the new Michael Buble Christmas Album, Nat King Cole's Christmas and Bing Crosby.

One very fine way to spend a morning filled with tasks.

I just discovered this lovely toe tapper and wanted to share. Enjoy!

Holiday Greetings...

2011-12-21T22:40:00.003-07:00

Love is Christmas

2011-12-08T01:05:00.003-07:00

I came across this song tonight...it may be one of my new holiday favorites!

Timeless Advice...

2011-12-05T22:12:00.001-07:00

Some of the Christmas light's at Temple Square....I'm mainly sharing just to help inspire a Christmas mood!

A few weeks ago I went to Provo to visit an old roommate and dear friend. We spent our Saturday night talking, eating delicious food, talking, talking and well...talking. She's always been a wonderful sounding board, and someone I can discuss everything from daily simplicities to the conundrums of life.

This particular night I was feeling drained, worn out, optimistic - but still very much at a point of frustration and discouragement.

During the course of our conversations Nicole asked me a very interesting question - she asked, "If you were me, what would you tell yourself?"

I sat, I thought and I gave her a response that was genuine. At the time it was everything I wish I could be and do. At the time it was therapeutic for me to say what I did out loud. If I'm being honest, shortly after I left Nicole's that particular portion of the conversation was put in the recess of my mind...until today.

This morning at work I received a short, but very pertinent message from Nicole it read, "Just thought I should send you some of your own advice that you told me a while ago." followed by my quoted advice to myself:

"Make more time for the Lord, serve others, recognize and be ok with your mistakes, find peace, enjoy the little things, make time for what really matters, pursue your hobbies, and laugh."

Needless to say, it was exactly what I needed to hear today and something I need to tell myself a little more often.

And now...to put my advice into action!

Any of you have experiences where you've been able to follow your own advice and make wonderful things happen? I would love to hear about them...

The Christmas Mood...

2011-12-04T00:05:00.005-07:00

After this past week of holiday wonder I'm ready for the Christmas season to be here. I have officially decorated my office, helped wrap over 30 presents for my co-workers, celebrated at my office Christmas party and this weekend I'm up in Idaho with all my siblings having our annual Christmas party.

Here's a little snapshot from tonight's gingerbread house contest...

Today the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints published their Christmas greeting for this season - it was a perfect reminder of the purpose of the Christmas season.

"There is no better time than this very Christmas season for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus Christ. It is the time to love the Lord our God with all our heart and our neighbors as ourselves. This joyful season will bring to each of us a measure of happiness that corresponds to the degree in which we have turned our minds, feelings and actions to the Spirit of Christmas.

May this Christmas season be a time of prayers for peace, for the preservation of free principles, and for the protection of those who are far from us. Let it be a time of forgetting self and finding time for others. Let it be a time for discarding the meaningless and for stressing true values. Let it be a time of peace because we have found peace in His teachings.

We testify of the living reality of our Lord and Savior, even Jesus Christ. He is indeed the way, truth, and the life (John 14:6)"

And, for your listening pleasure - a little holiday song to get your Christmas season off right. (Thanks to Tawnya for sharing)

Bring on December!!

View From Main

2011-11-28T23:23:00.002-07:00

View From Main - Al Rounds

This past weekend I found myself perusing through Seagull Book. I was looking for a little something to send some friends of mine who are on missions. It just so happens that while I was there they were having their framed art sale. I literally looked for almost an hour at all the different prints trying to decide if or what I should purchase.

I finally settled on a print from one of my family's favorite artists, Al Rounds. It's a piece entitled View from Main - a watercolor painting of the Salt Lake Valley in 1885 - 5 years before the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple.

I've been searching for something to hang in my office for a while now and I knew that this painting was it.

There are so many lessons this picture teaches me...

It reminds me of all the stories you hear about the early saints who sacrificed so much to come and establish Salt Lake.

It reminds me of the over 40 years of consistent labor and dedication to erecting the Salt Lake Temple.

It reminds me that the hard things I face are do-able because so many others have done hard and seemingly impossible things before me.

It reminds me to be grateful for the modern commodities that make my life so much simpler than those of the pioneers.

Most importantly, it reminds me of the value of persistence, hard work, dedication and the power of communities.

The view of the framed art on my wall...

Today as I sat at my desk not only did everything feel a bit homier but there were multiple times when looking at the new painting hanging on my wall gave me courage to keep pressing forward.

We can do this. We can conquer anything.

We can do hard things!

Also, for those of you who feel heavy hearted, you should check out the latest Mormon Message from Elder Russel M. Nelson - it's nothing but power!

Happy Monday everyone, I hope this week is filled with joy for each of you!

Thanksgiving - A Favorite Holiday

2011-11-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

Day #18: Time together as a family
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it gives me an excuse to eat delicious food and spend time with loved ones.

Today has been absolutely sublime - I slept in, perused the Black Friday ads, watched the Thanksgiving Day parade and spent the entire afternoon with my family.

There is nothing sweeter sounding than the laughs, conversations and interactions of over 40 people who love being together.

One of my favorite times today was when we unveiled the top secret production for Grandma and Grandpa. We managed to have Grandpa in tears before the movie ever started - all that was playing was the DVD menu and he was a teary mess. It was so special to share those 40 minutes with Grandma and Grandpa as their 26 grandchildren shared their memories and love.

The second favorite moment was when my family, the Blomquists and Grandma and Grandpa watched Christmas Vacation. Listening to Grandma and Grandpa laugh and laugh and laugh made the movie 20 times funnier.

Today I am so grateful for my family and for wonderful ancestors who have created a foundation of faith, strength, hard work and dedication.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!

Naptime

2011-11-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

Day #17: Naptime
It's been a long time since I've taken a nap and today I was SO grateful for those brief 35 minutes in a dark basement, cuddled up with a fleece blanket that I could get some rest and catch up a little on sleep.

If there's one thing I can say after the past couple weeks, it's that sleep is more important than we give it credit for.

Next time your brain feels foggy, your dragging and feel like you're ready for some sleep, I highly recommend a nice little afternoon nap.

Lots and lots of help

2011-11-22T23:55:00.003-07:00

Day #16: Mac Parties
Once upon a time my sister Shauna, my cousin Lisa and I had what we considered a grand idea. We wanted to interview all 26 of our cousins and put together a tribute video for our grandparents.

Since the beginning of August I've been working to track down, record and interview my cousins. Tonight was the culmination of our entire project - the video is finished and we've been happily celebrating by having a mac party at Shauna's burning copy after copy of the movie.

I can hardly wait to debut our production on Thursday.

Tonight I am grateful for selfless siblings, sibling-in-law and cousin who have come and helped work the fancy technology to make copies of our video.

Oil changes...

2011-11-21T23:48:00.001-07:00

Day #15: My Dad
Last Thursday night my oil light came on.

Now, if any of you know Revvie - an oil light is not something to be ignored. I have an awesome track record with my car not working quite how it should at the most inconvenient of times so I decided that since she gave me fair warning I would take her out of commission until I had time to take her for an oil change.

Saturday I attempted going but got there 5 minutes after the place closed.

This afternoon I sat in my office realizing that the next time I could realistically take my car to get the oil changed would be on Friday.

Then the office phone rang.

On the other end was my Dad - calling to see if it was ok for him to take my car in to get the oil changed before the place closed tonight.

Immediately my heart was filled with such gratitude for the continual kind example of my dad. He's constantly putting others before himself, and is always willing and happy to help. He is truly one of the kindest men I have ever met, and I am grateful every day for his love and example.

I can hardly wait to drive my car tomorrow and to be reminded that I can drive it, because my Dad took care of me.

Forget Me Not

2011-11-20T22:16:00.002-07:00

Day #14: Inspired Home Teachers
Tonight one of the kindest men came to our house he's one of the most loyal home teachers our family has ever had. He's always full of wisdom and tonight I was in awe at how inspired he was to say such significant things to each member of my family.

During our time together he shared a lesson from President Uchtdorf's 'Forget Me Not' talk from General Conference. Tonight, I'm grateful for the reminder to....

Forget not to be patient with myself.
Forget not the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice.
Forget not to be happy now.
Forget not the "why" of the gospel.
Forget not the Lord loves me.

So, to all of us - a friendly reminder to forget not.

Image from here

Breakfast, plays and glow in the dark mini-golf

2011-11-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

Day #13: Time with friends
Today was a day filled with friends and many many reminders of why good friends are important.

Shauna hosted a breakfast at her house with over 20 of our friends. It was so much fun to start our Saturday with a house full of happy, wonderful and hilarious people. Not to mention, the food was delicious.

Shortly after I left Shauna's I went to the Bingham High production of Beauty and the Beast with my good friend Carson. It's been a while since him and I have had a chance to spend time together and talk. It was really nice to be able to catch up, laugh and enjoy a good show.

To top of my day filled with friends I went down to Provo to visit my old roommate Nicole. She made us some delicious hand crafted chicken sandwiches and then we spent the rest of the night playing glow in the dark mini-golf and talking.

Tonight as I was driving home I thanked Heavenly Father for the countless friends in my life who have changed me for the better. Having good friends is key to success and a happy life and I'm so grateful that I'm fortunate enough to be able interact with such incredible people.

The passing of the cape...

2011-11-18T23:00:00.027-07:00

Day #12: Hero capes and tender mercies
Today was a really looong day filled with so many small tender mercies. It's almost as if Heavenly Father knew I would need an extra dose of encouragement.

Everything from a glimpse of a beautiful sunrise over Timp from my office window, a very key discussion with a co-worker about the process of sanctification and the blessings in my life, homemade dinner from a close friend and his family delivered to our house by him and his little boy, a thoughtful sweet treat delivered by Angela after one of the roughest client meetings I've had in a while, and little notes from old roommates via text or facebook.

Heavenly Father was definitely aware of me today, and for that I am grateful!

One of the moments that I'm sincerely appreciative of today was when we had our company monthly all hands meeting. During this meeting we highlight projects from the past month, discuss upcoming activities, and then we have what's known as the passing of the cape.

The cape is a literal hero cape with the name of our company embroidered on the back. Every month the cape is passed from co-worker to co-worker. It's a peer to peer recognition of someone in the company that's doing great things. Well, this month the cape was passed on to me. I can't really describe how grateful I am for the honor of having the cape in my possession over the next month. In fact, when my co-worker said that he was going to give it to me, my eyes immediately filled with water and I got all choked up. That moment of acknowledgment from my peers was the encouragement I needed to keep pressing forward.

Reliability.

2011-11-17T23:58:00.002-07:00

Day #11: People who do what they say they're going to do
There is nothing quite as wonderful as someone who I can always depend on to do what they say they're going to do when they say they're going to do it.

At work especially it's nice for me to know I have co-workers who will invest themselves, who care enough about an outcome of a project they're given that they see it through to the end.

Often times there is so much going on at work that I can't keep track of everyone all the time, and I am always so grateful when people return and report and have done what they say they're going to do.

There are few traits today that are as important to me as reliability.

Not what it seems

2011-11-16T23:49:00.001-07:00

Mom slicing apples from our apple tree for our batch of homemade applesauce

Day #10: The true character of people

A few weekends ago I helped my parents make homemade applesauce. We spent quite a few hours washing, slicing, boiling and saucing apples.

The first couple boxes of apples we had were a bit wormy. However, the interesting thing about the apples is you would have apples that would look completely wormy and you would cut them open to find out they were perfectly good. Then you had others that looked absolutely wonderful and when you would cut them open they would be filled with worms galore.

An interesting parable of the lesson we've all learned as kids that things aren't always what they seem.

Today I relearned a valuable lesson related to those apples I sliced a few weeks ago. People aren't always what they seem either. There is SO much more to people than the exterior look and personality they originally portray.

I am so grateful for the opportunity I had today to get to know someone in my life so much better than I've gotten to know them in the past 7 months. I am always so grateful for those moments when you catch glimpses or long moments of someone's true character. I am always humbled to realize that often times there are many people that may seem stand offish or quiet at first - but once you get them to open up they're the nicest people who are striving to do and be better just like everyone else.

Tonight I'm thankful for the valuable lesson that people (and apples) aren't always what you think they are when you initially look.

Zzzz

2011-11-15T23:29:00.005-07:00

Day #9: Going to bed before midnight

Sometimes going to bed early is a perfect cure for anything.

Tonight, I have the feeling it's going to be exactly what the doctor ordered.

Modern Medicine

2011-11-14T22:03:00.002-07:00

Mom recouping in the rocking chair tonight after she got home from the hospital

Day #8: The hope of a cure

Today was the last of my mom's surgeries related to her fight against breast cancer. I am beyond grateful for modern medicine, and the technology and research that bless and improves the lives of so many. We are so fortunate to have doctors, surgeons and so many solutions to so many illnesses.

Tonight me and my entire family are especially grateful for the blessings associated with oncology and the treatment of cancer.

How fortunate we are to live in a day where so many ailments are treatable.

Family

2011-11-13T23:13:00.058-07:00

Sammy and Will in their awesome outfits

Day #7: Family, Family, Family

I could go on for hours and hours about how absolutely incredible my family is.

Tonight I sat in my aunt and uncle's kitchen surrounded by over 40 members of my extended family. Just like every other time I'm with my family my heart was filled with gratitude.

So many incredibly talented people. So many hilarious children.

I am so very fortunate to have such a wonderful heritage of hard work, loyalty and service.

A few highlights of the evening included:

My cousin's little girl gave me a copy of her school picture so I could hang it on my fridge.
Will taking me in the pantry to show me how his skeleton pajamas glow in the dark.
Talking with Anne about her newest adventures
Discussing Mandy's upcoming mission to Russia
Hugging Grandma and seeing the excitement in her eye when she was telling me about Katie's recent engagement
As always it wouldn't be a quality Blomquist gathering without all sorts of delicious soups, breads, salads and desserts.
Watching Sammy and Will run around in their costumes playing superheroes. If you ask their mom, all is well when you have a cape!

Tonight as I was riding home after the get together I kind of chuckled to myself - if I already love watching and being with my family this much, I can hardly wait to be a parent or grandparent and watch my children and grandchildren grow, mature and learn.

Families are absolutely wonderful and mine is no exception!

Enjoy a few pictures from our night together.

Sammy getting some love from his great-grandma

A few of the gang hanging out at the dining room table talking

New Life

2011-11-12T23:25:00.001-07:00

Day #6: Babies and New Life
Today I had the opportunity to do a photo shoot of Kimberly and Caleb's new addition, Carter.

Boy is he a cutie!

There is something so wonderful about holding a new little life in your arms. I love looking into their big eyes and just wondering about what they're going to face and who they're going to become. It's hard to explain, but there's just a peaceful excitement that surrounds new life.

There's so much to love about newborns! I love their toes, their little cries, their big eyes and the tight grasp of their fingers around your finger. They smell like baby lotion. They're warm and cuddly.

It was so much fun to spend time with the Gundersens today. Remember when I shot their engagement pictures shortly followed by their wedding pictures? It's crazy to think they already have a baby.

I am so grateful for the hours we were able to spend together today, and for the wonderful experience it was for me to be reminded of what really matters in life!

Enjoy a few of the many pictures we captured during today's shoot.

A day away...

2011-11-11T23:28:00.001-07:00

Day #5: Not reading emails and taking a vacation

Earlier this week I was reaching my breaking point. I decided that I needed a day away.

Away from work. Away from home. Away from everything that's going on.

I need to recharge, re-vamp and relax.

So, Wednesday afternoon I sent an email to a few people at work and let them know I was taking today off. Shauna and I decided to come to Rexburg to visit Jenny and Michael.

This morning I woke up extra early to conquer a bunch of final work to-do's and then I set my out of office reply and closed my computer...I made a commitment to myself that I wasn't going to check my email all day today and I don't plan on looking at it until Monday morning. I was just want to focus on being with my sisters and relax.

Not checking my email today has been absolutely wonderful.(Now, I will admit that tonight a co-worker called and needed me to forward an email to him with some necessary information) but taking a break from that incessant incoming chatter from everyone has been so vitally refreshing.

Today has been a wonderful start to what's going to be a refreshing weekend. I have had so much fun today hanging out with my sisters, going to the craft store, searching for unforeseen treasures at the DI, eating delicious food, laughing, talking and getting my haircut.

I feel like me again, and I really like that feeling.

It's going to be one really awesome weekend!

Missionary Work

2011-11-10T23:08:00.001-07:00

Elder Worthington on the streets of Sao Paulo

Day #4: Missionary Work

100 days.

That's how long my brother has been serving his LDS Mission.

How do I know it's exactly 100 you ask? Well - you see, my family is one of those really awesome families that has a sticker chart on their wall and it's a BIG deal when it's your turn to put on the sticker. In fact, my dad called me today while I was at work just to remind me it was my turn to put my blue sticker on #100.

Me putting on the sticker for day 100

Why is it such a big deal you ask? Because there are so many blessings associated with missionary work. It's been incredible to read my brother's letters and to see how much being in the MTC and Sao Paulo has already started to teach him. It's also been really fun to hear how he's helping people there. Every week our entire family anxiously awaits the arrival of his emails, and inevitably a few good stories or two that leave you laughing.

Right before Adam left on his mission him and I were discussing the blessings our family would receive as a result of his service. He told me that he's secretly rooting that me getting married will be one of those blessings.....we'll see what happens - but I couldn't help but laugh.

I can't articulate well enough the blessings that come into my life as a result of missionary work. Whether it's the blessings I get from having a brother out serving. The inspirational examples of two of my best friends missions. Or even the missionary opportunities that I have every day in my ward and amongst my other friends.

I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to represent my Savior Jesus Christ and to share his love with those around me. I am especially grateful for those who are out serving full-time missions and dedicating anywhere between 18 months and 2 years to sharing the gospel with others.

For those of you who aren't familiar with LDS Missionary service, it's an opportunity for members of our church to go out and share the message of the restored gospel. If you would like a detailed description of what LDS missionaries do, click here and you can read more about it.

Silence is golden

2011-11-09T23:56:00.002-07:00

Day #3: A broken radio

Back in June the radio in my car started becoming a little unreliable. The speakers would turn on and off depending on which pot hole and road bump I went over. At first it was fun - when the speakers would turn off I would keep singing the song to see if when the speakers came on I was in the same place as the CD.

After a while they started turning off every other road bump and eventually waned to silence.

At first the 15 minute drive to and from work was a bit weird and uncomfortable in the silence. But, now that silent commute has turned into my opportunity to think, ponder, reflect, pray and otherwise spend time preparing for or unwinding from the day.

The art of silence is something I've reflected on a few times in my life, it's interesting for me to observe how incessantly we fill our lives with noise. Whether it's music, chatter, TV, or other background noises - it seems there is always something trying to detract us from truly hearing.

How grateful I've become the past couple months for the learning opportunities that the short in my speakers has brought me.

May we all take more opportunities to turn off our iPods, turn down the television and truly listen.

Image from here

Casting my vote

2011-11-08T21:04:00.001-07:00

Day 2: The right to vote

When I was in 6th grade I had an incredible teacher who encouraged me to write a report on Womens Suffrage. Ever since I spent hours writing a 20 page report and reading book after book on voting rights - I have had a deep and unfaltering gratitude for the blessing and right I have to vote.

Tonight, after work I drove to my local polling place - and even though there was only one item to vote for, you can bet I proudly inserted the voting card and casted my vote.

I am so grateful for America and for the wonderful women of the late 1800's and the early 1900's who petitioned to give me the right to vote.

The small acts

2011-11-07T23:21:00.003-07:00

Today, I had two co-workers give me thoughtful surprises...I have no words for how much their kindness meant!

Day 1: Small acts of kindness from my co-workers

When it comes to having wonderful co-workers, I would daresay I have some of THE best out there. I am constantly in awe at how helpful, kind, motivating and down right hilarious my co-workers are.

The past couple months I have been overwhelmed with gratitude by so many little things my co-workers do for me and for one another. Seriously, they are what makes every day at the office worth it. No matter what comes, we forge ahead together!

A few of the items on my recent gratitude list include:

A co-worker who was willing to meet me at the office at 6 a.m. to finish a project for a client deadline
Co-workers who are willing to call in and join 7 a.m. conference calls with clients
Another co-worker who stayed at the office with me until 9:30 p.m. to make sure we finished a project for a client before their important meeting
Hilarious Halloween costume contest (including a Justin Beiber look alike that tried to sing and dance)
Someone buying my favorite grilled cheese sandwich for me to eat for dinner when I stayed at the office late. (He was sure to drive back extra quick so the cheese was "still hot and melty")
The thoughtful bag of Garrett's Popcorn left on my desk by a co-worker who recently went to Chicago and knew that Garrett's is one of my favorite treats
The countless one on one discussions that result in motivation, encouragement, and desire to improve
The exchange of Ensign articles, BYU devotionals, news stories and more
Multiple co-workers chipping in on short notice to help produce an incredibly awesome promotional piece for a client
Laughter, jokes and more laughter!
A pile of Milano cookies left behind on my desk for a little pick me up
The purchase of a space heater for my office so that I wont freeze to death this winter
The appearance of a two-pack of Zebra pens on my desk (one of the only pens I can get to work well for me and my awesome left-handedness)
People putting up with my many antics
Countless hours of dedicated work from everyone to help our team succeed
A girls night out to Witchapalooza with all the ladies in the office (picture below)
Mav runs (nothing beats a spicy chicken quesadilla and chocolate milk for breakfast)

There are so many many other reasons why I'm grateful for my co-workers. Over the past 8 months they have become incredible friends, examples and have helped me stretch, learn and grow.

Every night when I get home, I'm so very grateful for such wonderful colleagues who help make work and everything that comes with the experience not only bearable, but enjoyable!

Sunshine and Happiness

2011-11-07T22:20:00.002-07:00

The sunshine breaking through the clouds after last Saturday's morning snowstorm

Earlier tonight, I sat at Wendy's with Katrina eating our small Frosty's and our Junior Bacon Cheeseburgers. While we sat there eating our delicious eats we started talking about happiness and life.

She had recently read a blog post of a friend of a friend who had nothing but negative things to say about her life. Nothing worked right. Nothing was going right. None of the boys she like, liked her back, and on and on....you get the point.

As Katrina and I sat there and chatted about our equally busy and stressful lives I quickly reminded of how much of our life and our happiness is a choice. (Remember when I also had this realization back in August?) She has loads of school work, lots of clients, huge exams and all the other joys that come with Masters programs at the U. I have crazy work hours, adventures with clients and all sorts of other obligations. I am grateful that even though we have our bit of opposition, we can still find so many great things in our lives to be happy about and make the most of.

I've just come out of one of the most draining months I've had in a loooong time, and I've decided that in order to help me better celebrate and acknowledge my blessings I'm going to post a daily little post that includes little spots of sunshine. I need to more readily acknowledge the little things that make my life absolutely wonderful.

So, ready or not - you're getting a month of November sunshine!

Should I laugh or should I cry?

2011-11-05T20:12:00.001-06:00

The above picture of my Facebook status from about 10 minutes ago is the icing on the cake for this week.

When I found out the package for my client's show wasn't going to arrive in time I didn't know whether to laugh or cry - so, I did both.

Thankfully the FedEx help line was somewhat helpful and the man with the awesome accent on the other end of the line made me feel a little better.

Gotta love those unforeseen road bumps.

A Beautiful Story

2011-11-05T11:50:00.001-06:00

Earlier this week I came across this video. Not only do I love the message of it, but I think it has some really awesome cinematography and some incredible animation as well.

Another beautiful piece from the makers of Mormon Messages.

To learn more about what we believe and to see lots of other incredibly well done videos, visit Mormon.org

frosty windows...

2011-11-03T00:20:00.000-06:00

You know you're at the office a little too late when you come out to get in your car and your windows have already frosted over.

I think I'm ready to start following my own advice and make time for the other important things in my life.

Last week my co-worker gave me a challenge to write down a list of ways I'm going to start making time for myself and improving my personal life so I don't get consumed with work. I've attempted writing this list 3 times, so far I have 4 items.

It's a work in progress...

Little Things...

2011-10-26T23:47:00.000-06:00

Reasons why I liked today:

I got home from work before it was dark outside
I ate a delicious grilled cheese sandwich for lunch
3 different clients approved their projects
Mom and I took Heather to buy the Halloween costume she's been saving up for and looking at for weeks.
I played Ghostbusters for Heather when she came parading out of her room wearing her new costume. (She's going to be a Ghostbuster)
Eating apples that were picked from our apple tree
Dad bought an entire gallon of chocolate milk!
In honor of the upcoming holiday Heather and I watched The Munsters

I hope your today was filled with just as many simple pleasures.

Someone Like You...

2011-10-17T22:30:00.000-06:00

I've heard a lot of attempts to remake well done songs. Some good. Others quite lame.

I'll be the firs to admit that I've never enjoyed a remake of anything ADELE - until now....

For those of you that don't fall into the 2 million some odd viewers that have already seen this, enjoy!

Breathe.

2011-10-15T22:41:00.002-06:00

This morning I woke in a panic.

I was panicked that I had slept through an important meeting at work...for the first 30 seconds of being awake while I was trying to establish what day it was, what time it was and what was going on I had a string of thoughts about all the places I was worried I was supposed to be.

After I established that it was 7:30 on a Saturday morning and that I didn't need to go to work, I laid back down on my pillow.

While I was laying there in bed I came to a realization that I've been aware of for a while...I need to slow down.

The past little while has been non-stop go go go. Between work, family and church responsibilities I've been stretching myself thin.

It was bound to catch up with me eventually and today I decided it was the day I would take a break, slow down and relax a little.

Today was a day spent in jeans and a t-shirt.

I went with my mom to shop for groceries. I finally had a minute to wash and fold some laundry. I went out and cheered on my friends as they ran in the South Jordan marathon. I sang on the top of my lungs with mom in the car. I helped decorate for halloween and tonight we baked fresh peach cobbler with peaches from the farmer's market.

Tonight Heather and I have been watching the old Don Knotts classic The Ghost of Mr. Chicken.

All in all, a rather splendidly simple day.

Moral of today's post, take some time to slow down, breath and enjoy the simple things in life. Because they end up being the only things that matter in the long run anyway.

Here's the cheering crew - cowbell and all!

In honor of a visionary

2011-10-05T22:54:00.004-06:00

Today was I was surprised and saddened to hear of the passing of Steve Jobs - a true innovator and an example of what's possible if you have a dream.

If you've never watched his commencement address to Stanford students, I would highly recommend watching it below.

Thank you Steve for your example, genius and passion!

‎"The only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet - keep looking and don't settle." -Steve Jobs

Nelson Family Photo Fun

2011-10-02T23:38:00.003-06:00

This weekend I decided to take a break from home life and went to Rexburg to visit Jen and Michael. While I was up there I had the chance to take family pictures of the Nelson family.

Thomas is a friend from my junior year of college. He and his wife Kayla have THE most adorable set of one-year-old twins. Kaeson and Layton had my heart the moment they grinned their adorable grins at me.

Today's photo shoot was SO much fun, the fall colors are in full swing - Enjoy a few of the many shots we got today!

The cute little family!

He kept trying to reach out and grab my camera...

Gotta love that druel coming off his chin!

Another close up of the little drueler

Gotta love the matching OshKosh B'gosh overalls

Layton was cruising around like crazy, he's one speedy crawler

Loving those little grins

I hope your first week of October is wonderful!!

Watch. Re-watch. Repeat.

2011-09-26T23:32:00.003-06:00

One really good week!

2011-09-26T00:42:00.002-06:00

This week has been a week of hard work and hard play. Looking back I'm a bit worn out by everything I did, but so grateful for all the small things that have helped remind me of the incredible blessing it is to be alive.

The highlights from this week are many, so for all intents and purposes I've decided to revert back to sharing the best moments through a peak of the week rundown.

So, here goes - the peaks, highlights and great moments of the past week.

Spending my Saturday night eating Macaroni and chocolate milk followed up with a couple hours of coloring Transformer pictures with Branson.
Watching the U completely humiliate BYU with some great friends! Jared's laughter combined with Matthew's elation made for a hilarious event.
Fresh cut flowers from the garden on my desk at work
Hand modeling for another client video shoot (I wore Blue doctor gloves which was the only reason why I qualified to work as a hand model)
Dinner and Five-O time with Brynn and Samuel (man, how I've missed this Monday tradition)
Spending an evening catching up with Dan and David over dinner and a walk around downtown
Talking with good friends about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness
Delicious homemade meatballs (My mom seriously rocks the meatball world)
Laughing with co-workers about all sorts of silly little things
Stoneground (enough said)
Watching Bert dance on the ceiling and Mary fly over the audience at the Broadway production of Mary Poppins. I've given serious thought to liking the Broadway rendition more than the movie.
Listening to the kids giggle at Mary Poppins.
Dancing to a live big band at the local Big Band Dance (The old man singing and the guy playing saxophone were my most favorite)
Swing dancing with my Down Syndrome friend Celeste (That girl can dance like nobody I've ever met - she even dipped me!)
Eating ice cream cones with Costco Vanilla - two nights in a row!
Peyton's Star Raising Party (Peyton's my current wish kid...remember when I took Minnie Mouse to let him know his wish was being granted?)
Listening to President Uchtdorf speak words that made my heart sing (Listen to his talk here....seriously, incredible!!)
Skypeing with Jenny

This week has been packed with so many good and cherished moments. Every single night I was able to spend quality time with people who mean a lot to me. I hope that each of you can enjoy a similar blessing.

Enjoy a few pictures from yesterday's Star Raising party for my cute little wish kid Peyton. Him and his family are leaving to visit Mickey next week and I am SO excited for all the fun and joy that awaits them.

Peyton looking at all the pictures trying to select a winner for the coloring contest

Me and my co-wishgranter Vicky with Peyton's wonderful family


Peyton and his dad raising his star

Peyton's awesome wish cake

I've come to love this little guy - he's such a ball of energy!

Season of Change...

2011-09-15T21:05:00.007-06:00

This morning I had a stark realization - fall is here.

I have yet to figure out where exactly the summer months have gone, but there's a definite crisp in the air.

I know I've mentioned this before - but this time of year is my absolute favorite! The weather gets chilly, the mountains turn bright colors of red and gold and harvest time comes.

The change of seasons is always an interesting time for me...I always tend to get a little sentimental and think back to where I was in life this particular time in years previous. Sometimes that's a good thing, and other times it's not wise to dwell in the past.

Part of the reason why you haven't had many quality blog posts from me lately is because I've been going through my own phase of personal unrest, change and development. The past couple months have been stressful, overwhelming, wonderful, insightful and an absolute adventure.

I'm committed to making some changes both personally and professionally to allow myself to develop in some areas I've found to be lacking. There are times and seasons in all of our lives - and for me I've decided my time is NOW and the season is deep, honest and progressive personal development.

A few weeks ago I was reminded of a quote that I shared around this time last year in my post 'Out of the Rut' - that quote is as applicable today as it was a year ago.

"The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers." -M. Scott Peck

As we embark on this new season what is something you're looking to change and improve?

For me I'm going to bed earlier, exercising regularly, recommitting to weekly temple attendance, finding a balance between personal and professional life and making greater efforts to pursue my talents and interests.

Whatever you decide to change - let's make it BIG.

Don't hold back.

Let's get out there and make things happen.

Who's in?

Image from here

2011-09-13T23:30:00.015-06:00

"Whoever you are and wherever you find yourself
as you seek your way in life, I offer you “the way, the truth, and the life” Wherever else you think you may be going, I ask you to “come unto Him” as the imperative first step in getting there, in finding your individual happiness and strength and success.” -El-Eder -Jeffrey R. Holland

9/11

2011-09-11T23:03:00.005-06:00

Today, a lot of attention nationwide has been given to remembering and honoring those who lost their lives in the attacks of September 11, 2001

I, like so many others remember many vivid details of that day, week as well as the ensuing months. I remember my mom hugging me tight when I got home from school and reassuring me that things would be ok. I remember staring at the TV for days to hear the latest developments. I remember the burst of patriotism and unity...

This past week as I've given some thought to those solemn days of 10 years ago I've been greatly encouraged and motivated by two messages.

The First, is this Mormon Messages video:

The Second, is an article written by President Thomas S. Monson for the Washington Post. This article will rock your world - guaranteed. Read it, it will enlighten, inspire and motivate you.

As we remember those heroes of 9/11, may we find hope and solace in the future through our Savior Jesus Christ and through our relationship with our Father in Heaven.

One fine day...

2011-08-29T23:20:00.008-06:00

Today I got one of the best texts I've probably ever received. It was from my mom. It contained 6 words and a picture.

It read....

"Yea! Just got done with Chemo!"

There's mom - ringing the celebratory 'Last Chemo Treatment' bell holding her bottle of complimentary celebratory Martinelli's

Tonight we celebrated the end of my mom's chemo treatment in style. Pizza, chocolate milk and spending time together.

Definitely a night for the record books.

The past 5 months have been some incredible one's for our family. Challenging?? Oh, yes. But the lessons we've learned and the power we've felt is beyond words. It's been tremendous to watch the Lord's hand in our lives...countless individuals have helped our family - everything from dinners, cards, flowers, visits, towed cars, thoughtful phone calls, sweeping our gutters and many other things. It has been amazing to see the strength and happiness those small gestures have given my mom. I could never fully express my gratitude for the thoughtful acts of others.

We still have a bit of a haul ahead of us, but I wouldn't trade these experiences for anything. They've helped remind me to speak kinder, to serve more often and to cherish the moments when our family gets together. They've brought me closer to the Lord and I've gained a stronger witness of the strength and blessing of the Priesthood.

I have especially gained a greater appreciation for my mom. The first couple weeks after her surgery she wasn't allowed to lift her arms or pretty much do anything. She would sit and talk to me while I made her bed, folded the laundry, washed her hair, cooked dinner and all sorts of other things. (I think every child should have the opportunity to do for their parents what their parents have always done for them - it will make you appreciate all that you've ever been given SO much more.) Once she started chemo there have been strings of days where she's sicker than sick and her and I will just lay on her bed and talk to her until she falls asleep. We've also been known to start a movie or two but those usually end with both of us sound asleep about 5 minutes in.

A few people have asked me if this has been hard. My standard response is, "It's hard to get frustrated with the situation or get sad about things when the person that's actually going through it is optimistic beyond belief and so positive about what lies ahead." If there's one thing that can be said about my mom through this experience, it's that she's been positive and cheery the entire time! I've never met another soul that could beat my mom's positive attitude.

For anyone interested, I've decided to help in the fight against breast cancer. Come join me at The Pink Series, an all women Half Marathon in Park City on October 8th. Proceeds from the race will be donated to UCREW. (Utah Cancer Resource and Education for Women)

Come, run, participate. Let's show Cancer who's boss!

Thomas & Sarah Sitting in a Tree

2011-08-29T23:05:00.003-06:00

This past Saturday I had the chance to spend some time with my cousin Thomas and his beautiful bride-to-be Sarah at Wheeler Farm shooting their engagement pictures. They met a few months back at church and, well....the rest is history.

The whole time we were shooting these two couldn't get enough of each other. I'm so excited for their wedding in November, and wish them the best of luck in all that lies ahead for them.

Enjoy a few pictures from Saturday's shoot....

what i've been learning

2011-08-25T21:18:00.006-06:00

Jen and I on our way back to DuSable Harbor after our scenic sunset boat tour of Lake Michigan overlooking the Chicago skyline.

The past couple of weeks have afforded me some great opportunities. I've had the chance to travel to Minneapolis for work, visit my favorite Summer Jam camp in Hyde Park Chicago, go to my first ever demolition derby, as well as all sorts of things.

I've had a lot of different things on my mind as of late, many of them having to do with life, people and happiness. As I've taken time to think through my past couple weeks there are some particular lessons I've really learned - one of which is the fact that quality relationships are key to happiness in life. Friendships. Mentorships. Co-workerships. Familyships. No matter where you go and no matter what you do - those relationships will bless your life immensely.

Here are a few other odds and ends I've been learning during this blessed month of August:

It's important to take note of the names of people helping you. Whether it be the waitress, the agent at the ticket counter in the airport, or the person on the other end of your call into the Apple Store for help - acknowledge them, call them by name and remember to tell them thank you.
The Mall of America is just as huge as everyone says it is
Small acts of kindness go a long long way!
Getting pulled over for speeding isn't the best way to start your week - save those kind of adventures for later on, or preferably never.
Garrett's Popcorn is THE best popcorn known to man. Especially when it's hot out of the cooker!
Demolition Derby's are one of the most fun ways to spend a Saturday night!
Jury Duty comes at the most inconvenient of times
No matter how bad a situation is - if an Australian is next to you and exclaims "Crikey Miss that doesn't look good!" it will guaranteed make the bad situation better, in fact quite comical.
Even on the hard days, the long days, the frustrating days or the somewhat dreary days there are still moments of sunshine, happiness and laughter. Relish in those moments. Create those moments. Dwell on those moments.
Diligence really does pay off.
Public Transit really is rather handy
Chicago deepdish pizza is still THE best kind of pizza
More often than not the best things in life are not easy to achieve - if something is hard, it's usually because you're doing something right.
If you ever find yourself frustrated or stressed - go for a nice little walk to get some time away from the frustrating or stressful situation, it works wonders!

For those if you in need of some listening goodness enjoy the following two recent additions to my listening library.

Click here to listen to my first favorite!

Watch the video below to listen to my new second favorite! If you decide you really like them, you should go to a free concert in Provo next week where they'll be featured. Trust me - you want to go! The Rooftop Concert Series is the place to be.

Josh Groban...Straight to You

2011-08-14T01:05:00.005-06:00

Josh rocking out on the drums during the intro of his song, Você Existe Em Mim

Tonight was the night of all nights!

Shauna and I got to go to the Josh Groban concert and my good friend Alison and her two cousins joined us.

We laughed, we sang, and most of all we listened to song after song of Josh Groban goodness.

I'm proud to say that I've been a fan of Josh's since his first album. I remember sitting and watching the 2002 Winter Olympics and thinking to myself "Who is that cute curly haired man singing with Charlotte Church?"

Needless to say my fandom has only increased since those early days. (*Disclaimer, even though I'm a big fan and love his music - I am not one of those crazed followers that needlepoints pillows or spends hundreds of dollards on memorabilia)

This evenings festivities were filled with homemade shirt goodness, incredible music, powerful vocals and a few times of Shauna dancing/singing along. All in all - the perfect way to end this long week.

That Josh Groban has never let me down yet - his concerts are always worth every penny!

He seriously was singing close enough that I could see him this clearly. Shauna did good in selecting us some great seats.

smile in the rain

2011-08-11T21:35:00.004-06:00

Tonight I am SO very grateful.

Grateful that the Lord was aware of me today.

Grateful that he loves me enough to send someone along at a much needed moment to remind me that I have ministering angels who will help ease the burden.

That no matter what I'm facing, and no matter how suffocating the pressures of life can be, things have a way of working themselves out.

Thank you dear friend, you know who you are - for taking time to look me in the eyes today and express your genuine desire to help, to listen and to make me laugh.

If any of you ever doubt that life is good, just look heavenward and you'll find your answer.

If you ever doubt the Lord's hand in your life read this - it will help cure those doubts.

Homesick for Chicago

2011-08-08T23:11:00.003-06:00

Today was the first day of Summer Jam!! (STOP - if you don't know what Summer Jam is click on the link in orange and find out! Seriously, do not pass go and do not collect $200 until you click and read.)

Did you read about it? If so...you can proceed

This year Jen is running the show, and so far from what I hear she's totally rocking it!

Tonight I finally got to talk to her for the first time in a week and for a solid hour we talked all things Chicago. Everything from the girls, to the workshops and how much everyone's changed since we saw them last.

After I hung up I felt thousands of miles from the girls, the program and the place I really love.

I'm homesick for Chicago.

I want nothing more than to hug, play with, teach and learn from the girls of Summer Jam. I want to teach them their value in Heavenly Father's eyes and show them that it's ok to stand up for truth and righteousness.

The best part of all of this is the fact that I've managed to arrange a little opportunity to go visit next week. For a brief amount of time I get to play with them, I get to teach them, I get to serve them and I get to talk to them.

Chicago just keep waiting because I'm on my way!!

Picture courtesy of here

Are you happy?

2011-08-07T23:07:00.008-06:00

A while back I came across the above picture on pinterest - at first glance it made me chuckle because it's 100% right. Whether you're happy or unhappy it's your choice.

It's interesting to me how profound of an influence one person's negative or positive attitude can have on the masses.

Here's one lovely example that has recently taught me this lesson...

For the past 2.5 months I've been participating in a boot camp class 3 times a week. It's hard. Really hard. Like, think of the hardest workout you've ever done, times it by 10 and then that's about how tough it is.

During the first 4 weeks of our class there was a lady who would come that no matter what we did she always had some sort of complaint or negative comment. I remember one particular time, we were about half-way into our workout, sweat was dripping off my face and I was struggling to do medicine ball wall sits and as I was squatting there against the wall all I could hear was the lady next to me repeating over and over "This hurts....my legs are shaking...I don't think I can make it any longer...ow ow ow ow!!! etc. etc." It took a lot of self control to not shout over at this lady and say, "Hey, can't you see that we're all shaking, hurting, sweating and hating this as much as you are?!?! Please just STOP complaining."

It was frustrating to see the effect this particular participant was having on all of us. The discouragement was visible in all our faces. We were all out there struggling together and were continually being deflated by the complainer.

Let's contrast that with the last two weeks of the same class. Our good friend the complainer hasn't been attending and last week, just about the time one of the ladies was ready to quit one of the other ladies started yelling down the field "You can do it, you're almost here! Keep it up! Come on, come on, come on!!" And you know what, as much as it still hurt and as hard as it was - she made it and then we all powered through the remaining 40 minutes of our workout.

The only difference - one person's attitude.

So, dear friends - if you're under the impression that your attitude doesn't effect anyone except yourself you are WRONG.

Life is better when you're positive. When you share optimism. When you encourage.

I recently re-read my post from January titled Search for Happy...the words from that post are as true today as they were 7 months ago.

Happiness is a choice people - and we have every reason to rejoice!

Get out there and CHOOSE HAPPINESS!!

star gazing

2011-08-03T18:54:00.007-06:00

Earlier this week National Geographic announced the winner of their 2011 Traveler Photo Contest.

I was enamored with the image produced by the first place winner.

Something about long exposures just get's me excited.

Tonight I came across a time lapse video that shows the process the photographer went through to produce the image. The video is pretty rad.

Enjoy some incredible photo producing talent!

Photo, courtesy of here

Video, courtesy of here

it's ok to be jealous

2011-08-01T22:41:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was our last time together as a family for the next two years.

Adam's leaving to serve a full-time mission for the LDS Church. He's going to Sao Paulo Brazil, and all I know is that those Brazilians are THE luckiest people in the world.

Listening to his talk yesterday at church really made me realize just how incredible he is. He's funny, charming, well-rounded and so so smart.

A perfect brother any girl could ask for.

I can hardly wait to start getting his letters and hearing about his successes, trials and quirky companions.

We decided to do a little family photo shoot yesterday while we were all gussied up - and we totally took the following picture as part of an inside family joke but truthfully - it's my favorite one!

I'll say it once and I'll say it again - I am one VERY lucky gal to have the family I do!!

Someday Soon...

2011-07-26T00:39:00.005-06:00

I came across this video tonight...one day in the near future I want to be like this woman.

I would really love to help run a non-profit organization!

And I want nothing more than to be a mother!

There, I said it - that's what I really want to do.

One really great day!

2011-07-24T23:34:00.011-06:00

Yesterday was by far the best day all week!

It started out with a couple hours spent with some of THE cutest boys known to man, touring the dinosaur museum at Thanksgiving Point followed by a lunch of dino nuggets, cheetos and fruit punch topped off with bright blue bubble gum ice cream!

These two stole my heart! They had me laughing the whole time we were together, don't they look great with mine and Heather's sunglasses?

After that Heather and I spent a couple hours shooting bridals and engagement pictures for my cousin Ashley. I seriously had the best photo assistants ever - my aunt, cousins and Heather we're standing above Ashley blocking light, holding flowers and helping with all the minor details. It was really fun to spend some time together.

We had quite the production going on...

Oh, the fun didn't stop there....the main kahuna of events for the day culminated and Debbie and Phil's house for the annual family swim party.

We had plenty of cute kids running around, delicious burgers, fruit up the wazoo, a birthday cake for David, a diving contest, a hand stand contest, basketball games, chicken fights (with people, not chickens), waterslide adventures, dance offs and one REALLY awesome firework show!! (Sidenote - bless the people who legalized aerial fireworks in Utah) It was the best swim party to date - I'm fairly positive nothing can trump our time together as a family. Best ever.

CANNONBALL!

Into the pool...

Cousin Brian taking Emma for a spin down the water slide

Kendrick had some great form as he dove through the ring...

A few of the family just hanging out in the pool

He was loving the pool!

This was one of the little ones...

To end my evening in perfect form I stopped by my good friend Lizzy's birthday Luau and spent time catching up with all sorts of wonderful friends.

A blissful end to a perfect summer's day.

The biggest lesson I learned this weekend - take time to enjoy the little things and be sure to laugh and have fun!

Picture of the week

2011-07-18T22:41:00.002-06:00

I have too much on my mind to compose a beneficial blog post tonight - so, I've instead decided to share one of my favorite pictures from our recent trip to San Diego.

I've loved Koala bears since I was a little girl - something about them just seems so cuddly...

End of an era

2011-07-16T02:12:00.003-06:00

Mischief Managed!

Image found here

Vacation State of Mind...

2011-07-15T02:01:00.003-06:00

There's something about the mindset of being on vacation that I love.

All the things that you think are so important every day all of a sudden become not so important. The work can wait. The forever increasing 'To-Do' list can wait. Everything is on hold.

You're on vacation - all that matters is spending time with family. Enjoying one another's company. Laughing, playing and relaxing.

I just returned from a 5 day exodus to the sunny beaches of Southern California.

It was superb.

I kinda, maybe, definitely, secretly wish we could go back - maybe forever. All your cares, your worries and stresses are temporarily on hold and you can just be you with those you love most.

Ah, vacation...I miss you already and it's been less than 24 hours.

Dare to dream.

2011-07-06T15:00:00.000-06:00

Ever since I interned with the Utah chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation I have loved being involved in any way that I can. Most recently I've been involved as an official wish granter for the organization.

Last week I had the unique opportunity to meet with my very first wish family and share the wishing experience with them as their little boy declared his one true wish to meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Make-A-Wish process, once a child has declared their wish it usually takes about a week or two before they find out that their wish will be granted. This last Saturday my sister, my fellow wish granter Vicky and I had the fun job of going to our wish kids house to tell him that his wish is going to come true.

Vicky found a pizza place willing to make a Mickey Mouse shaped pizza and I got Shauna to dress up as Minnie to deliver it.

There is nothing that can compare to the excitement, happiness and joy that family had when they found out that Peyton's wish is going to be granted. His face just lit up as soon as he heard the words "Your wish to meet Mickey Mouse is coming true". (I seriously have THE best volunteer job in the world!) We were all smiling from ear to ear with happiness the whole time we were there.

One of my favorite things Peyton said was when he opened the pizza box and yelled, "I wish for more pizzas!" The poor little guy probably thinks now that whatever he wishes for will come true.

After all was said and done and Shauna and I were driving away I couldn't help but think how much this little boy's attitude can apply in our own lives. If you had the assurance that no matter what you wanted in life you would get it - what would you wish for?

Would you wish yourself a dream job?

Would you wish for more fun adventures?

What about that unforgotten dream of pursuing a favorite passion?

Would you do things differently?

I'm here to tell you that no matter what it is - it's achievable, it's do-able and you can make it happen. The only thing standing in the way of where you are now and what you want for yourself in the future is your doubts and fear of failure.

We can all learn a lesson from Peyton and his desire to wish for more pizzas. It's this - no matter what it is, if we want it we CAN make it happen. It may take hours of hard work, months of dedicated persistence and many times of falling down to figure it out.

But you know what my friends - we can make anything a reality. We must dare to dream. Dare to push ourselves and dare to make the seemingly impossible possible.

Minnie Mouse with Peyton's Mickey pizza surprise

Peyton coming to meet his special visitor

His Dad had just finished reading the line "You're wish to meet Mickey Mouse is coming true!"

The Rocket's Red Glare...

2011-07-05T21:38:00.005-06:00

This weekend was one filled with explosions, great eats and lots and lots of fun! For me there's no better way to celebrate independence, freedom and our wonderful country than by spending it with family and friends.

Seriously - this weekend was something I've been in need of for a while. It really was perfect.

Here are some reasons why this holiday weekend rocked my socks...

The Rooftop Concert
Sleeping in past 6
Making homemade shirts for Heather and Shauna to wear to The Stadium of Fire
Sitting outside The Stadium of Fire watching families light fireworks, eat twizzlers and enjoy time together.
FIREWORKS! (The grand finale rumble at the Stadium of Fire set off a car alarm)
Singing patriotic songs at church
Playing Scrabble with my family (even if Adam always wins)
Delicious BBQ food including Chicken, Corn on the Cob, Salad and Guacamole
FIREWORKS (Now that aerial fireworks are legal in Utah Shauna's neighborhood was all lit up with fireworks for about 3 hours straight)
Eating homemade strawberry ice cream on the back deck with lanterns glowing all around
A perfectly (and I mean perfectly) timed music set for the West Jordan fireworks. I decided that this year's fireworks needed a little custom Worthington pep. I spent some time yesterday afternoon compiling the "Perfect Patriotic Playlist". The last song on the disc is the last half of the William Tell Overture. Just about the time the big climax of the song started up the grand finale of the fireworks started and when the last note played the fireworks ended. It was truly SO very very awesome. It's probably one of those "You had to be there moments" but I seriously couldn't have timed it better if I had been trying.

Overall this past weekend was perfect. I love spending time with my family when we can laugh and just enjoy time together. The only missing ingredient was Jenny chasing me around with snaps and sparklers. But....that's something that can wait until next year's celebration.

I hope you each had a wonderful holiday weekend! Even more, I hope that we each really value the incredible blessing it is to live in America. We truly are so blessed to live when and where we do. I hope that we can each continue to stay true to the values this nation was founded upon.

The family enjoying homemade strawberry ice cream...a tradition I've known my whole life.

Shauna and Heather sporting their homemade Archie T-shirts before the Stadium of Fire Concert.
Check out all the fireworks behind his head...

A Rooftop Concert...

2011-07-04T22:55:00.001-06:00

Last Friday night was what I like to call "A Perfect Summer Evening".

I went to the Rooftop Concert Series Abbey Road Show. They had multiple artists from around Utah perform the Beatles Abbey Road album from start to finish.

It. Was. Wonderful!

Not only was the mood perfectly set with a light warm summer's breeze, a beautiful sunset, and lanterns. But the music was incredible as well.

The grand finale of the night was "Hey Jude" - They had what seemed like 20 people on the stage performing. From awesome vocals, incredible instrumental, a wonderful brass section - this group had it all. Oh, and the whole crowd got up and started dancing and singing while fireworks went off in the background.

Doesn't it just sound wonderfully and epically fun?

All in all - it was the perfect way to start a holiday weekend.

I can hardly wait for next month's concert to come around! There's just something about a concert, on a rooftop, in Provo that just makes me happy.

Check out CJane's blog for more info on the Rooftop Concert Series

Shauna and her delicious tri tip sandwich from Station 22

Nicole and me just chilling in our lawn chairs waiting for the evening's festivities to begin.

Pottermore...

2011-06-24T21:42:00.003-06:00

Personally, I think the idea of Pottermore is brilliant! I can hardly wait to read the additional information about all of the Harry Potter characters.

And, let's be honest - ebook versions will be rather handy as well.

Anyone else stoked about J.K. Rowling's recent announcement?

Life in a day

2011-06-23T07:50:00.001-06:00

I remember as a child sitting in my backyard staring at the sky and thinking "I wonder what's happening on the other side of the earth right now"

I recently came across a new documentary that's coming out from National Geographic that will in some way answer my question.

The description of the movie reads, "On July 24, 2010, thousands of people around the world uploaded videos of their lives to YouTube to take part in Life in a Day, a historic cinematic experiment to create a documentary film about a single day on earth."

I can hardly wait.

Seriously.

It's going to be awesome!

Check out the preview below...

Rah-Rah-Rah!!

2011-06-21T23:14:00.001-06:00

The final water station of the Ragnar relay

Last Saturday Shauna and I spent 5 hours working the final water station at the Ragnar Wasatch Back Relay.

Best volunteer station ever!!

As we sat there at our table 1.5 miles from the end of a 188 mile relay race I couldn't help but remember the times when I've been running a race and all I wanted to do was hug the volunteers giving me water and I couldn't have been more excited to be that person for someone else.

I watched as runner after runner came by - exhausted from 36 hours of team racing - determined to get to the end.

When runners approached the table my favorite thing to do was tell them they were getting close and encourage them to keep going. It was incredible to see the pep in their step improve once they had a little water and a smile.

As we sat there watching the sun go down waiting for the last runners of the race to roll in I kept going back to the thought about how important it is for all of us to have a cheering section and how vital it is for us to cheer one another on.

Cheer through the tough days at work.

Hoot and holler when someone accomplishes something truly hard for them.

Celebrate when things go well.

Encourage when things don't go so well.

So often we get caught up in ourselves, our lives and our own desires that we forget to help others along the way. There is a power in unity that comes no other way. Uniting for a common good. Helping others to a greater height with no ulterior motives of helping yourself.

I recently read a post from my good friend Laurel titled "The power of the cheers" one particular section has really got me thinking...

"Something really interesting happens at the end of a race.
You are spent and you want to quit.
You might even consider stopping.
Or walking the last little bit.

But, then you hear the cheers.
And you cry.
And that brings on more cheers.
And then there is no way you are not going to finish...and finish strong.
It's a pretty amazing feeling.

I've thought a lot about that. Even shared it with the girls I spoke to last Monday.

"What would happen if every time you were faced with something difficult," I asked, "you could hear the cheers of everyone pulling for you?"

"What would happen if every time you stood in the face of temptation, all of heaven cheered you through it?"

"There is NO WAY you wouldn't get yourself to that finish line. There is no way."

We need to be more encouraging of each other.
We need to feel less awkward about acknowledging when something is hard.
I wish we would allow ourselves to be more vulnerable so we are more willing to ask for support.
And we certainly need to cheer louder and harder than any of the other influences in the lives of those we love."

I agree with every word.

Along the same lines - I started a new workout class three weeks ago. I call it bootcamp on steroids. Three times a week I submit myself to a rather grueling workout for 60 minutes straight. When I'm done every single muscle has been pushed to the max.

After the first day, my trainer mentioned that the workout we do is one that none of us would be able to complete if were trying to do it alone. It takes all of us working our guts out, sweating, running and panting together to get to the end of each session .

And so it is with life - we can't do it alone and we must make every effort to help those around us. We must push one another. Encourage one another and keep others from giving up on themselves.

Let's get out there this week and give someone in our lives a genuine "Rah, rah, rah!"

Shauna and I at our awesome water station at the Ragnar

thinking.

2011-06-15T00:03:00.010-06:00

The clouds at sunset from the top of Ensign Peak

Last week I went to one of my favorite thinking spots.

It was exactly what I needed.

Taking time out of the hubub and humdrum of daily life is important.

It's only when we slow down and take time away that we're able to focus, re-evaluate and reflect.

However, another important element to thinking is action. You can think, plan, evaluate, stew, ponder and worry all you want - but it's when you begin to act and make things happen that the real magic happens.

Here's a little inspiration to start your weekend off right...

Quasimodo, the gas station and one really cute kid

2011-06-09T22:42:00.008-06:00

Quasimodo:

This morning I woke up and when I looked in the mirror I saw something like this....

My left eye was swollen almost all the way shut.

I call it Quasimodo Eye.

Thank heavens for allergy medicine - by noon today my eye was back to it's normal size and my co-workers stopped giving me weird looks when I was talking to them.

The Gas Station:

Ever since I purchased my car I've always wondered if my "Low Fuel Light" worked.

I don't have to wonder any longer.

Tonight as I was pulling into the gas station I ran out of gas. Thankfully I was able to coast down the hilly parking lot and right into the only available gas pump at the gas station.

Talk about lucky, blessed and fortunate!

As I pulled out of the gas station I vowed to never ever wait to see if the gas light will work again because obviously it doesn't.

One Really Cute Kid:

I came across this video tonight - it made me smile.

Enough said - just, watch it!

Photos courtesy of here and here

The Mouths of Babes

2011-06-06T08:01:00.002-06:00

I came across this timeless classic last night. It will make you smile - I can guarantee that! It's kind of like "Kids Say the Darndest Things" meets the Church Audio and Visual Department in the 80's.

Pure Awesome.

If anything watch minutes 8-10.

My favorite is the blond girl that sings about Pebbles, and the little red head singing his version of "I Hope They Call Me on a Mission" is a very close second!

If you ever want to borrow it, let me know - we still have this beauty on VHS.

Here's a little exchange that happened today at church with my Down's Syndrome friend Celeste...

Me: "Celeste, would you like me to help you make a name tag?"

Celeste: "No, I don't need one."

Me: "Are you sure?"

Celeste: "Yes, I'm sure"

Me: "Do you not need one because everyone knows you?"

Celeste: "Yeah, I don't need one because everyone knows who I am....I'm popular"

After making the last statement she started singing the "Popuuulaaarrr" part from Wicked over and over as she walked down the hallway like a Broadway star. (To know which part I'm referencing tune into 1:00-1:05 of the movie below)

It made me laugh....really hard.

I just love that Celeste!

Ear Candy

2011-06-02T12:30:00.000-06:00

Holy Canoli it's already Thursday!

The best part about 4 day work weeks is that you keep thinking you're a day behind when really, your not.

Love when that happens!

Here are a few music recommendations to help liven up your Thursday.

I love this first one from Sara Bareilles because,

A. The video starts out with Ben Folds
B. One of my favorite people for the past 10 years appears multiple times throughout the video. (Love that Josh Groban)
C. I have been a fan of this to audio goodness since I bought the latest album of Sara's back on Black Friday for $3 (Thank you Amazon)

I'm sure you've all heard it - but enjoy it anyway!

The second and third recommendations are favorites for a plethora of reasons...but mainly because they're two of my top picks from Josh Groban's new album Illuminations.

Have I mentioned I get to see him live in concert on August 13th?

Have I mentioned that I've been a fan for 10 years?

Both of those facts are true.

Seriously - I used to spend hours scouring the internet for video and audio clips. Mind you, this was before celebrities had YouTube channels, fancy websites and free downloads.

A little ironic though - because the only good footage I was able to find to share these two songs with you include a video from some website that was all in Hungarian and a rinky dink recording of Josh on TV.

Either way - listen & enjoy!!

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Forge Forward

2011-06-01T23:33:00.008-06:00

Happy June 1st everyone! I seriously did a double take this morning when I changed the calendar in my office....It's already June?!?!

Where does the time go?

Tonight I've been working on my goals for the month of June which I have affectionately named my "June-Years Resolutions". As I've been listing out my true desires for the next 30 days I've realized my focus and gumph has changed compared to the goal lists for the past couple months. I attribute the change of outlook to a few different things...but mostly I think my perspective's changed because of a book I recently finished reading.

My co-worker recently loaned me a copy of 'Return' by Elder Robert D. Hales. (I would strongly recommend it to anyone. It's seriously one of those books that lays it out there and helps you get set back on track.) It's all about the 4 key stages of life...

Decades of Preparation
Decade of Decision
Decades of Serving and Pressing Forward
Decades of Serving and Enduring to the End

As I read the words of Elder Hales, one theme seemed to strike me over and over and over.

I DON'T have to do this alone.

None of us do.

Even though I'm strong willed and would like to think that I can take care of myself and do everything on my own - I have a Heavenly Father that wants to be involved in the struggles, the progress, the worries, the triumphs and the moments of elation.

I have a loving Heavenly Father who wants far more for me than I'm even capable of comprehending.

And you know what I've decided?

Even though I fall into what I consider the most daunting of all the categories, "The Decade of Decision" I'm going to buck up and face the future with brighter eyes and more hope.

I can make the most of this wonderful decade of decision because I know I don't have to make all the big decisions alone.

I know I have Him to help me reach new heights.

I know that even when I feel like life is zooming past in a whirlwind - he can help me make sense of it all.

He will listen - even when my worries are silly, because He cares.

I just need to allow Him to help me, to strengthen me and refine me.

Because, only through the refining process will I become the person I want to be.

remembering

2011-05-31T23:55:00.008-06:00

Grandma and Grandpa's headstone - I LOVE the lilies in their arrangements!

I love holiday weekends!

When I was a young girl holiday weekends meant we could stay up past bedtime on Sunday night, eat chocolate pudding and have sleepovers with my siblings.

Now that I'm older holiday weekends mean I can sleep in past 6:30, wear a t-shirt and hat all day and spend an afternoon with no schedule.

Here are a few reasons why this weekend was extra stupendous:

I got to spend a little time shopping some awesome Memorial Day weekend sales giving my wardrobe a long overdue upgrade.
I helped lay sod at a neighbors house - call me weird, but it was refreshing to do some good old manual labor.
Rain, rain and more rain!
Going to visit Grandma and Grandpa Worthington and Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Rice at the cemetery.
Going out for milkshakes at Iceburg on our way home from the cemetery. (Grandpa used to always send me a few dollars when I was at college for me to go get myself a milkshake. I'm fairly positive he would have eaten milkshakes for every meal if we would have let him.)
Roasting hot dogs over the fire for our first BBQ of the year
Hangin' with Phil and Deb in their new fancy kitchen
And last, but not least - watching the old school Pink Panther movies. We re-wound and watched the following clip quite a few times. Even now it still just cracks me up. This scene has always been a favorite of ours...

Here are a few pictures from our trip to the cemetery yesterday. We took pictures in front of the freshly snow covered mountains because we all kept thinking if Grandma and Grandpa were still around they would mention how they just couldn't believe there was snow this time of year.

Sometimes I miss them something fierce...

blessed

2011-05-26T22:56:00.003-06:00

This GINORMOUS card is a good luck card from my mom's co-workers. It's definitely the largest of all the get well cards on our piano.

I just want to take an opportunity to express my gratitude for the service that my family has been recipients of this past week.

A week ago today Mom had surgery as part of her fight against breast cancer. I am so grateful for modern medicine, and the technology and procedures available. It truly is a modern marvel.

Words can't express how grateful I have been for the countless individuals who have showed their love, support and concern. The flowers, the cards, the food and phone call after phone call to see how she's doing.

What an incredibly comforting experience it has been to know that Heavenly Father is aware of us and that so many people want good things for our family.

May we all remember that it is essential that we care and lookout for those around us. Heavenly Father wants the best for each of us, and much of His work is dependent on us looking outside ourselves and helping one another.

You don't have to take my word for it, just read a great General Conference address from Pres. Dieter F. Uchtdorf titled You Are My Hands.

Relish

2011-05-19T00:52:00.003-06:00

Me and Heather in the photobooth at my co-workers wedding a few weeks back

This week's been out of control busy, overwhelming, but incredibly wonderful at the same time.

How grateful I am of mindful friends, family and a wonderful Father in Heaven who takes even the ickiest of moments and helps turn them into bright patches of sunlight.

I randomly listened to a BYU-Idaho devotional on Sunday. It's called 'Become a Humble Seeker of Happiness' by Elder Charles Didier. I didn't realize it at the time - but I have needed it more than ever this week.

You know what though? Opposition and all - I wouldn't trade this week for anything.

God is good.

Life is great.

Relish the happy moments.

And work really hard to find the happy in the icky moments too.

The power of one

2011-05-15T22:34:00.004-06:00

Yesterday I witnessed something truly magnificent.

Something that has changed the way I think about the capabilities and powerful reach of the influence of one person.

We often read of people like Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr. and Greg Mortenson. People who have changed and influenced the lives of thousands upon thousands of people. When you hear about such incredible people, have you ever stopped to consider the power and influence of your own life? The opportunity you have to bless and change the lives of those you associate with for the better?

Yesterday I watched as hundreds of people rallied and raced in behalf of one man who has changed their lives for the better.

I witnessed as one woman's daunting goal of organizing a benefit 5K in behalf of a fellow co-worker became a thriving event with overwhelming success.

The power to change the lives of others lies within all of us.

The power to bless others.

The power to bring happiness and optimism.

The power to teach profound truth and serve others.

The power of one.

Yesterday's 5K Fun Run at Jordan Hills Elementary was truly one of the best events I've ever been to. The race was a benefit event in behalf of Mr. Craig Peterson. (His student's and co-workers call him C. Peterson) Back in January he was diagnosed Lou Gehrig's disease, he was forced to retire from his job as a 5th grade teacher and his health has rapidly declined the past couple months.

My friend Tawnya was a co-worker of C. Peterson's. They are very close (she always refers to him as her Utah dad) A few weeks after she heard the news she asked Shauna and I, "What do you think you have to do to officially organize a 5K?" That idea (an idea that came to her in the shower one early February morning) is one that took root and grew into yesterday's 5K race.

It was powerful to watch as hundreds of people dressed in Yankee's apparel (C. Peterson's favorite team) filled the school parking lot to run the race. It was overwhelming to witness person after person selflessly donating money to help a man they love.

During the 4 hours he was at the event C. Peterson was constantly surrounded by student after student, parents, neighbors, family, co-workers and even strangers. Each of them wanting to express their gratitude. Watching him smile and mouth thank-you after thank-you to the hundreds of people who had gathered in his behalf was powerful. He had in some way blessed each of those lives and each of those people had in turn blessed him as well.

The power and influence of one life is truly unmeasurable.

One of my favorite moments was when C. Peterson maneuvered his wheelchair over to the finish line so he could cheer people on as they came in from their 3 mile run. He was nothing but positive, optimistic and encouraging to everyone as they ran by - the perfect example of what it means to keep pushing forward.

When all was said and done over $17,000 was raised for C. Peterson and his family at yesterday's 5K and silent auction.

That number still floors me.

Watching this race come together the past couple months has taught me many lessons. Nothing is impossible. One person, their daunting idea and a lot of elbow grease can make some incredible things happen. People are very generous. Never stop believing in something your passionate about.

Most importantly I've realized that each of us has a limitless potential in the good that we can do. It took one girl to dream up this race, to rally some help and to make it happen. It only takes one friendly hello, one selfless act, one kind gesture to make a lasting impact on someone's life.

Emily Dickson is quoted as saying, "Sometimes when I consider the tremendous consequences from little things...a chance word...a tap on the shoulder or a wink of an eye, I am tempted to think there are no little things."

Let's get out there and make BIG things happen!

Here are a few of the images from Saturday's 5K event:

Tawnya and C. Peterson

C. Peterson is greeted by one of hundreds of supporters at the starting line of the race.

C. Peterson and some of his family

The sea of runners coming past as the race began

C. Peterson cheering on some race participants at the finish line

One of many many handshakes

Thumbs up at the finish line

If you're interested in making a donation to Mr. C. Peterson and his family you can make donations at the following location:

Jordan Credit Union (Craig Peterson Fund)
9250 Redwood Road
West Jordan, UT 84088-650

Sneak Peak

2011-05-14T22:08:00.008-06:00

Today was incredible! Full of so many learning and inspiring moments.

More details to come - but until then, here's a little preview of how I spent my morning...

Going Up?

2011-05-10T06:50:00.000-06:00

Last night our family went to dinner at the Little America coffee shop. We were celebrating Chris's recent graduation from Utah State and the start of his new internship.

On our way out Mom and Dad decided they wanted us to go up to the 2nd floor to look at the pool. (They had been telling Heather about how cool it was on our way to dinner and they wanted to show her) Well, when we got to the top of the stairs I looked up to see the middle elevator with a binder wedged between the doors. Through the crack of the doors I saw about 10 sets of eyes peering through the crack at about floor level.

The elevator was stuck.

I couldn't stop chuckling to myself. Our entire family was laughing for about 5 minutes.

About the time we stopped laughing the boys started cracking jokes about how they would "let one rip" if they were ever stuck in an elevator with a lot of people. At which point their slapstick humor triggered another bout of laughter.

Those poor business men, I sure hope those baffled bell hops figured out how to get them out.

Seeing the stuck elevator reminded me of the scene from You've Got Mail...I'm not sure what I would do if I ever got stuck inside.

Some listening goodness

2011-05-09T08:10:00.000-06:00

Need to jazz up your listening library?

Click here to get the April playlist from RebeccaHansenWeddings.com

Best iTunes addition I've had in a while.

Tell them you love them

2011-05-08T23:14:00.007-06:00

This picture is one of my most very favorites ever of my Mom and Dad

Today is Mothers Day.

The day where all of us feel a little more inclined to make our Mom dinner, to wash her dish, and to make her favorite dessert. The day where we all spend more time worrying about our Mom's happiness as opposed to our own.

I often feel like Mom's don't get enough credit. It's sad, but often true.

Tonight as I thought about what I wanted to say on here about my Mom I realized that anything I could type would be completely inadequate to describe the profound effect she's had on my life. A great deal of the person I am today has been influenced by the example of my Mother.

She is truly one incredible woman.

If you don't believe me, just come meet her.

This past week my parents told us that Mom's breast cancer is back. After 10 years of remission, it's here for a second go-round. The fight will be harder and the effects of treatment will be longer lasting. But we have faith that all will be well.

Mom's a fighter. That's all there is to it.

I could go on and on about all the reasons my mom is wonderful, fun, inspiring and entertaining. But, truthfully I would rather tell her in person and I would rather show her my love through service. Typing it on here wont do much good.

So, to all of us (me included) - I give the challenge to take a moment to tell those who matter most to you the reasons why you care and the reasons why they matter. You can think it all you want, but until you tell them and you show them they'll never know.

Trust me - you won't regret it.

3 for 6

2011-05-07T14:00:00.001-06:00

Today my older brother Chris is graduating from Utah State. SO SO proud of him!! He got an awesome Landscape Architecture Internship in Lehi which means him and I can have lunch dates once in a while.

So far my parents are 3 for 6 for college graduates. Jenny and Adam are well on their way, and Heather's already planning her college career and she's in 8th grade.

I think my parents are doing a fine job!

Congratulations Chris - you've done some incredible things during your time at Utah State. Keep up the great work!

Not a bandwagoner

2011-05-07T11:10:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you - but sometimes when everyone seems to start liking something you've liked for quite a while it can get a bit irritating. Everyone starts to jump on the bandwagon and you look around and think to yourself - "Hey people, I've been here for a long time - why all of a sudden is this the cool thing?"

Thankfully I love Adele enough that I'm fine if everyone likes her.

Enjoy one of my latest favorites from her. Seriously - such an incredible voice.

Timing

2011-05-06T23:47:00.008-06:00

Check out those Tulips!

I've had fresh tulips in my office for 3 weeks running. These have been my favorite so far. They're huge, and bright - and the perfect sunshine spot reminder of everything good. Nothing beats beautiful fresh cut flowers!

This week I've been thinking a lot about timing.

Timing of friendships. Timing of trials. Timing of happy times. Timing of big things. Timing of little things.

I don't believe in coincidence. I fully support the fact that every thing happens for a reason. Yes, sometimes in life those lucky moments are really when hours of devoted preparation meet opportunity. But, truly - I think everything happens the way it does for a particular purpose.

It's always so interesting to look back and evaluate your life in hindsight - you realize just how much Heavenly Father's hand is playing a role. In guiding the good things, the hard things and everything in between.

How grateful I am to know that if I continue to increase my faith, work hard and rely on the Lord that everything will come together for the best in the long run.

I recently re-read a favorite talk of mine - 'Timing' by Elder Dallin H. Oaks.

Read it. I promise you'll love it.

Here's on of my favorite lines...

"If we have faith in God and if we are committed to the fundamentals of keeping His commandments and putting Him first in our lives we do not need to plan every single event - even every important event...You do not know what will happen. Do your best on what is fundamental and personal and then trust in the Lord and His timing." -Dallin H. Oaks

Really, go read it.

Any fun plans for the weekend out there? Tomorrow I'm looking forward to a nice looooong run, some nice pondering time and a reunion party with some friends from BYU-Idaho.

An up close shot of the yellow beauties!

10 Things I learned on a road trip to California...

2011-05-03T00:22:00.011-06:00

Me sporting Shauna's stylin' purple shades somewhere between Barstow and Bakersfield

This past weekend our family took a nice long journey to The Sunshine state for wedding party round two. It was just as awesome as round one!

There are many life lessons that can be learned on a road trip, things like - even if you don't feel like you need to go to the bathroom when you stop for gas, it's still a good idea to go...just in case. You also learn things like cruise control is the next best thing after chocolate milk and banana's with peanut butter.

Here are a few additional lessons I learned during this weekend's quick trip to California and back.

When the person driving the car needs to take off their jacket. It's a wise choice to help them get their arm out of the sleeve. If they attempt jacket removal on their own the likelihood for unsteady maneuvering is much greater than if you help them.
When spending a night in Vegas at a station hotel don't be surprised when you turn down your blankets to find someone else's hair on your pillow. Just remind yourself you got a great deal and that the sooner you fall asleep the sooner you can wake up and keep driving.
Wheat Thins, Coke and Peanut Butter Twix are a fairly decent breakfast. However, be warned - if you don't drink soda, caffeine or eat much sugar you'll likely feel pretty icky later on.
Bakersfield is NOT a coastal city and therefore is not the typical California scene you imagine. In fact - it's nothing like what I pictured every time someone has told me they're from there.
iPod batteries do not last 12 hours.
Stuff You Should Know makes almost any distance between rest stops bearable.
There are SO many characters at gas stations in the middle of the California dessert. I wouldn't recommend stopping there in the dark. Ever.
The best way to convince the driver that you're not sleeping or dozing when you're supposed to be a reliable co-pilot is to turn on a Conversations episode and then make random comments like "This is my favorite part" while you're sleeping to convince them that you're fully alert. (Note: If they're wise, they'll see right through this)
I have much greater respect for people who drive semi trucks for a living. Highway driving isn't all it's cracked up to be.
If you're participating in a family caravan back to Utah and you have an option to be the lead car or the follower - Don't be the follower, you'll regret it - I promise.

In all honesty - going to spend time with the Dill family and getting to meet all their friends and family was worth every minute of the 25 hours of driving we did between Friday afternoon and Sunday evening. We had a grand ol' time partying, celebrating and dancing the night away.

Enjoy a few pictures from the weekend's festivities:

Mr. and Mrs. Dill

Mom and Dad

Adam drinking the floral arrangement

4 thoughts and a video

2011-04-27T23:43:00.003-06:00

I'm worn out today ladies and gents. Today's been one of those back to back to back to back kind of days. You know - the kind where you go from one thing to next ALL DAY LONG.

I finally took a break tonight at 9:30 to eat some Cheerios and strawberries for dinner and I've been moving a little sluggish ever since.

In order to keep this post at a bearable length and to also abstain from any unecessary rambling I'm going to share 4 thoughts I've had today and one awesomely awesome video.

Thought #1: I'm so grateful for optimistic and understanding friends. It sure is the crum of all crumminess when you have to miss a lunch appointment and a dinner appointment with close friends just because you have unexpected meetings come up at work. How grateful I am to have people in my life that are so nice and understanding when kinks do come along.

Thought #2: I am VERY excited about all the changes coming to the young single adult scene here in Utah. I went to the meeting tonight down at the conference center and after listening to Sis. Beck, Elder Ballard and a few members of the 70 I know it's time to step it up, get involved and make my new ward all it can be. Change, especially in this case is going to be a really good thing!

Thought #3: Everyone has feelings. Even the old sour puss that hardly ever acknowledges your presence, let alone calls you by name. Get over yourself and talk to them. Get to know them and awesome things will begin to happen. It's amazing what can happen once you get past your selfish feelings and just allow yourself to genuinely care about someone regardless of what they do, say or what others say about them.

Thought #4: Last night I listened to the latest Stuff You Should Know about whether or not you stay conscious after visiting the Guillotine. Not only did it answer questions I had since we learned about Anne Boleyn in 10th grade - but it also gave a whole new meaning to the phrase "Running around like a chicken with my head cut off". If you don't know what Stuff You Should Know is - check it out. If you do, go listen to the latest episode, it quite intriguing.

And now....for the video of the day - the trailer for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II. I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am. The second half of book 7 includes my favorite chapter of the entire series.

Cheers to a slower paced tomorrow!

Jenny and Michael's Big Day

2011-04-26T20:47:00.012-06:00

Hey there everyone, my apologies for taking an almost 7 day hiatus. We've been party prepping, partying and party recouping here at the Worthington household.

It's quite possible that the events from this past weekend have trumped almost every family event and vacation to date. There's just something wonderfully enjoyable about spending quality time with so many loved ones and friends that can completely make a day sublime. Seriously, one of the best ever!

When all was said and done Saturday night I was laying in my bed completely exhausted from the long day and all I really wanted to do was have pillow talk with Jenny. I wanted to talk about the day and swap stories of all the people we saw and laugh about all the funny things that happened.

Considering that she's on her honeymoon until Friday I've decided to make today's post a letter to Jenny - re-capping all the great thoughts and feelings of Saturday.

I hope you enjoy it, if not that's ok - because, Jenny - this one's for you!

Oh Hey Jen!

Whooooooooooooooooo you're officially a married woman! (imagine excited face, hands waving in a victorious fashion back and forth and we're hunched down in celebration mode)

I would like to think if our bike tour guide were here he would summarize Saturday as "Great great" and I have to agree with him.

Saturday was incredible!

I'll never forget how happy you looked when you walked out of the Jordan River Temple hand in hand with your new best friend. It's the same temple we grew up staring at from our kitchen window, it's the one we could see from our elementary playground, it was the first temple we went to when you turned 12 and it's the one we always talked about when singing about going there some day.

It's crazy to me how we've gone from climbing trees, playing in the sandbox and making awesome construction paper murals for our bedroom window to having grown up jobs and bills to pay. Who would have ever thought this day would come. :)

You were an absolutely gorgeous bride. Beauty, happiness and peace just radiated from you all day long. You were on cloud 99 and nothing could have brought you down.

Taking family pictures outside the temple was so much fun. We laughed and laughed and laughed some more. Grandma was smiling from ear to ear as she sat in her wheelchair watching you and Michael together.

My favorite part of the luncheon was when you played the song from Up. You had all sorts of people tearing up. It's a good thing you cracked a joke about never having played the piano in a wedding dress or else mom would have needed another box of tissues. Mr. Crump and Mr. Boberg would have been proud to hear you start out your awesome speech with historical facts - definitely awesome! Oh, and making toasts with Martinellis - another great moment for the record books....I'll drink to that.

I'm sure you got lots and lots of advice from the people you talked to all day - but personally, I think the Strebel's advice is the most important. Remember to always laugh. Happiness, laughter and the ability to find the bright side of things is a key ingredient to living a great life.

Remember that time Mom told you that the fake ceiling would make the gym at the church feel like "you weren't in a gym at all" and we were a little skeptical of how it would turn out. Well, we learned our lesson - mom was right. It looked so awesome! Almost elegant. You can't imagine how many people I talked to said "I love that ceiling!".

There were so many peaks of the day, but one definite great one was when we were taking pictures - just us kids and Michael. I don't think we've laughed that hard for a long time. All of us in our awesome gray/navy/yellow outfits, laughing, joking without a care in the world.

The reception was so so so so so much fun! (Remember when we used to have journal page filling contests and right like a million so's - so our entry would be longer than the other person's) Seriously though Jenny - I know we've said this before, but we have some of THE best friends and family ever. It is was humbling to have so many wonderful people continually streaming through the door. We really are so lucky to have such tremendous influences in our lives. I was kind of secretly jealous because you got to talk to everyone that came. I don't think I stopped talking the entire time the party was going on and I didn't even get to talk to everyone that came.

If there's one thing I learned Saturday it's that You and Michael are WELL loved people!

My most most most favorite moment all day was when we got to the dancing. Dad loved every second of dancing with you. High fives - our two hours of picking the perfect song was worth it. He loved dancing to Iz. I also love love love that yours and Michael's first dance was to 'Til Kingdom Come.

However, as awesome all those moments were - let's be honest. Chubby Checker and The Twist took the peak of all peaks of the day....maybe the year even. I've never seen Grandpa high kick and shake his hips like that. It reminded me of the time we got all 18 people in our FHE group to do the Twist, including Scott. Except for this time was WAY cooler!!!!!!! It still is and always will be my favorite song to dance to.

I'm still amazed at how perfect the day was. Seriously - SO. MUCH. FUN!

I hope it's a sign of many good things to come for you and Michael. He really is such a great match for you. I couldn't have picked anyone better suited for you. I wouldn't willingly hand you over to just anyone so it's a good thing that Michael is as wonderful as he is!

I hope you're having a grand ol' time in San Francisco right now at your "Ritzy" hotel. Be sure to eat lots of Ghiradelli and Sour Dough for me. Oh, and you better go to Alcatraz - your history loving self will love every second of it!

I can hardly wait for the rest of our lives - it's going to be awesome!!

LOVE YOU!

-Me

PS. The flowers were a perfect decision. I loved the Gerbers!

The single digits

2011-04-20T00:29:00.004-06:00

So many things make this picture awesome - wasn't childhood the best?

It's official ladies and gents - we're down to only a few days before Jenny and Michael's big day.

The closer it gets the more excited I get.

Shauna and I put the finishing touches on our gift tonight and I can hardly wait for the grand unveiling. Seriously - we both just sat there and looked at it and kept saying "Oh, they're going to love this!"

It's going to be awesome.

Tonight I was doing some finish work on the slideshow for the reception and remembering all the great times we had as kids. I've come to the conclusion that our childhood was THE best. We had so many fun adventures at our house. Don't even try to tell me your childhood was cooler - because I highly doubt it.

We survived the end of tax season and now it's full fledged wedding planning here at the Worthington household.

Saturday can't come soon enough.

A Good Life...

2011-04-17T22:33:00.005-06:00

These beauties are going on my desk in a nice Mason jar filled with water

Wowsa - this has been an incredible weekend. It's definitely been one of those times when you sit back at the end of the whirlwind and think to yourself "I am so lucky!". Tonight my blog post is titled after the One Republic song Good Life it seems fitting after having such a wonderful weekend with my family.

Here are a few peaks from the past couple days!

Going to see Oklahoma at a quaint little playhouse
Cutting fresh tulips out of the garden to put on my desk in my room as well as my desk at work.
Chris was honored at a banquet as the Student Leader of the Year from the Landscape Architecture Department at Utah State. He also found out he was awarded a travel scholarship to go look at landscape architecture sites in Sweden and Norway. Couldn't be more proud!!
I completed my first official race of the season. It was a bit surreal when it was all over, but it felt great. (Teton Dam Marathon - watch out because you're next!) Oh, and for the record - Cinnamon Apple flavored Hammer Gel isn't as delicious as you would think.
High-fiveing the Duke family as I ran down the race chute at the Gateway. It was great to have someone smile, wave and cheer you on at the end of the race.
Sleeping in this morning!!
Successfully finding the perfect gift for Michael and Jenny's wedding.
Adam and Jenny went through the temple yesterday morning.
Having lunch with close friends and family to celebrate Jenny and Adam's special day.
Adam's 19th birthday!!
Spending a Saturday night with close friends from High School
Watching Wallace and Grommit with Jenny, Michael and Heather
Laughing with my family's home teachers
Family dinner/birthday extravaganza
Sunday walks around the block
Springtime sunshine and breeze

The best part about this weekend, is that it's going to be trumped by this upcoming weekend. Jenny and Michael are getting married. I can hardly wait for the celebration to begin. My mom informed me tonight that my job is going to be to walk around and talk to all of our family and friends. I told her that I think I can definitely take care of that.

All I have to say is hooray for happy moments - and hip hip hooray for many happy moments to remind you that God is good and that life is spectacular.

Enjoy a few pictures from this weekend's happenings...

Jen and Heather during Saturday's lunch celebration!

Adam and Jen with Grandma and Grandpa

Showing off my recent addition to the race medal collection

Happy 19th birthday Adam Buddy!

Tune for your Thursday

2011-04-14T08:10:00.003-06:00

Have you ever wondered to yourself - "If someone were to ever make a documentary about me, what music would I want played?"

Yeah, me neither.

However - last night as I was doing some studying the song The Winner Is came on and I found myself thinking - this would be a great song on my life soundtrack. I can picture it now - a Morgan Freemanish voice narrating as images and sequences of my life flash by...sorry, back to reality.

This song is what I like to call good listening.

One of those songs you have to be in a mood for - but when you're in the mood, it's a perfect song to listen to.

I hope you enjoy it - and listen to it a couple times today.

Happy Thursday listening everyone!

New Do...

2011-04-13T19:58:00.005-06:00

Haircuts.

They've always made me nervous.

What if you get a cut that's too short, funny looking, too much maintenance or my biggest fear - a mom haircut. (I can't have one of those until I'm at least 34)

It's quite the relaxing routine the beautician's have going on. They wash your hair with nice warm water, they pump the chair so you're sitting at the right level, throw the cape around you and then they ask it....the big kahuna of questions that chase any moment of relaxation away, "So, what style and cut are we doing today?"

Talk about a ridiculously daunting decision.

Now, for a good majority of my life I've pretty much played it safe and always had an A-Line cut. But yesterday my haircut lady didn't ask "So, what are we doing today?" she said "Are we keeping it the same, or can we liven it up?"

Now, don't get too excited - I'm not brave enough to do anything drastic or radical. But, I did tell her to do whatever she felt like.

A very trusting answer if you ask me.

Needless to say, all in all it turned out alright. No super shorty bangs like that one time at Hair We Are - and I didn't cry when I looked in the mirror like I did once in the 8th grade.

All in all my new do is growing on me.

One good thing I have going for me is the color. Today a co-worker commented that she thought the color looked great on me. (I've never dyed my hair) So, at least my natural color is a pro.

Do any of you have good - bad haircut stories or am I the only one that's had a traumatized past?

Me - Sporting the new do

Optimism

2011-04-09T13:49:00.004-06:00

I've recently been re-reading the book Standing for Something. (If you haven't read it, you're missing out BIG time!) This morning I came across the following quote in the chapter titled 'Optimism in the Face of Cynicism' - I loved it so much that I've decided to share.

No matter what is coming your way - keep your chin up. :)

2011-04-08T17:00:00.002-06:00

Congratulations everyone, you survived to see another Friday! You should celebrate by treating yourself to a mini dance party and a glass of chocolate milk. (I'm serious - do it!)

Last night I read another tremendous post that was a reminder of why it's important to find the sunshine in life and express gratitude.

So, in order to celebrate the sunshine (even in this dreary, snow, sleet, rainy, super windy weather) I'm going to share the top 5 things I'm grateful for this week.

Ready, go...

1. The new clutch in my car (even if it did cost a pretty penny or two) it's almost like I'm driving a brand new car. Revvie has never had this much get up and go. Thank you mechanic!

2. Heather's choir concert. Nothing beats the excitement of 125 8th and 9th graders as they try to sound soulful singing classic gospel songs.

3. Running in the rain at dusk. If you've experienced it, you know what I mean - but there's just something regal and beautiful about dark rolling clouds, wind and sunsets that make for prime running conditions.

4. Smiles. Even the most intimidating of moments can be a little less stressful when you encounter a friendly smile.

5. Bic pens. You know, the cheap ones where you can get an entire pack of 10 pens for $1.50? Those seem to be the only ones that work on a regular basis for me. (I think my left-handedness has something to do with it) Forget those fancy writing tools - give me a 25 cent pen and I'm ready to go.

What are you grateful for this lovely Friday?

Cheers to finding the silver lining on even the darkest of clouds. :)

Happy weekending everyone!

Une nouvelle vie

2011-04-07T23:50:00.005-06:00

Tonight's post comes from a culmination of multiple conversations and situations over the past couple weeks. Some were with close friends, others with co-workers and yet others were more a mere observation of occurrences in other people's lives. It's a topic that I've reflected on many times the past couple years, and every time it has a different application. I hope the approach which I take will be of some benefit to someone out there. I know that for me, just writing this post has helped organize my thoughts and push myself to greater heights. Most of what is said here will be directed specifically towards a specific audience, however - I would like to think that what I want to discuss is applicable, no matter your stage in life. So....hold on to your hats ladies and gents - you're about to read some ruminations from the mind of Amy.

"Let us relish life as we live it" Thomas S. Monson

For those of you who speak french, or live in Canada (thereby automatically learning French from reading the cereal boxes growing up) you know the title of my post translates to "A New Life".

As spring time approaches and I watch new life begin all around me - the flower beds out front with the tulip and daffodil leaves sprouting from the dirt, trees that line the streets showing the very first signs of buds, and even three new babies of dear friends that have joined the world the past two weeks.

As I look at all this new life, I can't help but think that to some extent that I want a new life of sorts.

A new beginning. A fresh start.

A life where I take some new risks, put myself in different situations and provide myself a new living experience.

Some nice, hefty winds of change if you will.

I'm sure you've all found yourself in those moments....the ones where you feel like you're not progressing, your spark for life feels temporarily snuffed out and you don't feel like you're becoming the person you hoped you would be. We've all been there. We've all had those moments of waning commitment where you just begin to itch for a life revamp.

How grateful I am for those moments!!! Where would we be without that constant desire to push ourselves, to change things up and to reach new heights?

As I've been mulling over the concept of self improvement and new beginnings the past few weeks, I've come to a realization that I'm in the prime time of life to make some big changes and to refine myself in ways that I likely wouldn't be able to in any other circumstance. (This is where this post takes a nice turn towards a specific demographic.....all you single people)

Last week I had what I like to call "A swift kick in the pants" discussion with a co-worker. It was one of those chats where thoughtful things were said and I was in the right frame of mind to realize that I need to make some changes and need to better take advantage of the opportunities that await me.

Since that discussion I've compiled a list of some unique opportunities that await everyone, but that we as emerging adults should really take advantage of. Here are a few of the items on my list...

Serve, serve, serve, serve, serve! There is an ample amount of opportunities for us to get involved. Non-profits, neighbors, after school programs and on and on. If you have a talent or interest, there is a volunteer opportunity for you to share it. Often times I've found that I'll think to myself, 'I can help with that when I'm older'. But the truth of the matter is there is no better time than NOW to get involved. As a young single adult I don't have anywhere near the obligations or time commitments that others do - why not use all that extra time to make a difference and get involved?

Learn and study all you can! Many people say it much better than I - but, never lose your desire to learn new things. Take advantage of the public library, do research on the internet, find information any way you can. Even when you don't have other people pushing you to learn something - take advantage of the chance to gain new knowledge.

Get out there and be adventurous. Just like they say in the movie Up - "Adventure is out there!" Get out there, find it, take advantage of it and no matter what - whatever you do - DON'T allow yourself to be content just sitting around living vicariously through everyone else.

Set goals, determine your desires and get out there and make them happen! No one ever wants to dwell on the should have, could have and would have's. For those of you who don't know me well I'm a goal maker. Almost to the point that it's a bit obsessive. I have yearly, monthly, weekly and daily goals. The one thing I've found that helps me most in life - is having a defined direction in what I'm trying to accomplish. If you're not much of a goal maker, read this - it's one of my favorite posts about goal making. Figure out what it is you want most and then work, sweat and devote yourself to making them happen.

There you have it...a few of the ways I plan on making the most of my upcoming days.

After the past couple of weeks of reflection and nudges to get a move on I'm determined to re-focus, re-evaluate and kick it into high gear. I'm changing, and there's no looking back.

In answer to the question Rapunzel sings about in the Disney movie tangled - "When will my life begin??" I am saying my new life starts NOW. I'm climbing out of my tower and meet the challenges head on.

Who's with me? You in?

Carpe Diem all the way!

What do you desire?

2011-04-04T22:00:00.003-06:00

I'm still fine tuning a post I've been working on for a while - until the grand debut I wanted to share something that has really got me thinking the past couple of days.

Our good friend Elder Dallin H. Oaks gave an incredible talk this past weekend at the LDS General Conference. It was all about desire, priorities, choice and actions.

In his words, "Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices and choices determine our actions. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving and our becoming."

It really got me thinking about what my true desires are in life. I've included the video of his address below - I hope you can find some of the same power and inspiration as I did.

What are some of your deepest desires, hopes and dreams? I would love to hear about it!

Those were the days

2011-03-31T00:19:00.004-06:00

Tonight I was doing some work on a little multi-media production for Jenny and Michael's wedding. I came across this beauty in the collection...it reminds me of so many good things in life. The innocence, the excitement, the fun, and the joy that comes with being 4 years old.

I love remembering childhood. It really was such a unique and fun time of life.

This week has been an incredible one so far...I've had some really profound learning moments. I can't wait to share more with you, but until then - you'll just have to bask in the awesomeness that was my early 90's childhood.

Keep on, keeping on everyone!

A little gem

2011-03-28T16:15:00.000-06:00

I love this one...

Carpe Diem!

2011-03-27T22:31:00.009-06:00

The view from the Brighton Ski Lift on Friday night. It was by FAR the best skiing I've ever experienced.

Earlier tonight I sat in wrapped in a blanket, surrounded by family as we watched a home video from March 29, 1986. The occasion we were re-living was Shauna's 4th birthday. It was back in the day when my extended family was small enough that all the cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents came to birthday parties. It was also in the days when kids wore shorty shorts and long socks while riding Big Wheels around the yard. Gotta love the 80's.

As I sat there watching, I again had the stark realization that life is short. It all goes by much faster than anyone ever realizes. A good majority of the kids in that video are all now in their late 20's and early 30's with kids of their own. One set of my grandparents and my great-grandma has passed away. My parents have aged, wizened and had 4 more kids than they had in 1986.

To echo someone I admire "Life is just too short" (Read her blog post here)

Life is just too short to get caught up in the humdrum. Life is just too short to sit around and let it pass you by. Life is just too short to not get out and enjoy the sunshine and to dance in the rain.

Tonight I decided that I'm bound and determined to be better at enjoying every stage of life - no matter what. I don't want to end up being one of those people that's always looking forward to something better - why not stop and enjoy what's going on now.

One year at girls camp our theme was "Carpe Diem" and we started every day by singing "Seize the Day" from Newsies. It worked wonders on the 150 plus teenage girls at that camp....If you need a little push in the right direction to get yourself some get up and go I would recommend listening to it, singing it really loud - and then getting out there and making life happen.

May the best continually come your way. I feel so blessed that so many great things have come mine. It seems like the blessings and tender mercies are continually coming in all shapes, sizes and forms. The Lord let's us know that he loves us, we just have to look.

Here's to a great week of life for each of us, let's make it the best week yet!

Oh yes, and a BIG happy 29th birthday to Shauna. Her birthday is on Tuesday...we celebrated tonight by eating homemade pizza, watching footage from her 4th birthday and eating strawberry shortcake. All in all - one GREAT night!

The lucky duck only had to blow out one candle because her shortcake wasn't big enough to hold 29.

The master shortcake builder - seriously, THE best ever

It may take an extra run to burn this off - but it was worth every single bite!

Oh, and just in case you really want to practice seizing the day...or if you're like me when I was 8 and just want to watch Christian Bale throw down some awesome dance moves - check out the video below.