I am really sick. I felt good for a few hours this morning, while my system was completely cleaned out but my severe stomach cramping returned AS SOON as I ate anything. It sounds like I have the same thing that sent my sister into pre-term labor because of violent vomiting. In other words-not fun. My toilet finally gave up the ghost this morning, so now I am going to camp out at my parents, where other toilets can be found.
In a couple of days, when the weather is more cooperative, Ali and Mike will come install my new Christmas Toilet, which I have wanted for about 5 years now; so it is a really good gift. Thank You! I love indoor plumbing, and really miss it when it is malfunctioning. The snow is really deep out there today.
Monday, December 07, 2009
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Some Advice
To the random boy who showed up on my doorstep at 9:00 tonight looking for Kelly. And also Kelly.
"Uh sorry, I must have the wrong house, or do I?" he asks as a look of horror quickly crosses his face
First of all, Sir, I know I look hot with my matted hair, bright red nose and dog hair covered sweats, but you are way to young for me. So sorry to disappoint you.
Secondly, when I found out that you did not know Kelly's last name I began to wonder, because 'round these parts a proper blind date begins before the hour of nine. Also, most people know the last names of their blind dates. As someone who has made the same mistake in a moment of desperation, that is what this "date" smells like; desperation. AKA the internet dating hook-up.
Kelly, dear, this "date"will lead nowhere fast, but perhaps you already know that. In the future, let me suggest, that you find out, a young man's first and last name, at a bare minimum, before you give out your home address. Thanks for listening, and good luck out there.
"Uh sorry, I must have the wrong house, or do I?" he asks as a look of horror quickly crosses his face
First of all, Sir, I know I look hot with my matted hair, bright red nose and dog hair covered sweats, but you are way to young for me. So sorry to disappoint you.
Secondly, when I found out that you did not know Kelly's last name I began to wonder, because 'round these parts a proper blind date begins before the hour of nine. Also, most people know the last names of their blind dates. As someone who has made the same mistake in a moment of desperation, that is what this "date" smells like; desperation. AKA the internet dating hook-up.
Kelly, dear, this "date"will lead nowhere fast, but perhaps you already know that. In the future, let me suggest, that you find out, a young man's first and last name, at a bare minimum, before you give out your home address. Thanks for listening, and good luck out there.
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
In A Gentle Way
- I am grateful for the knowledge that my life has an impact on others for good or bad according to the choices I make. I am also grateful for the gift of free choice. Here are some good quotes by my favorite Mahatma.
“Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.”
"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will."
"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it.
In doing something, do it with love or never do it at all."
"In a gentle way, you can shake the world."
- Mahatma Gandhi
Monday, November 30, 2009
The Silver Lining
- I am grateful for trials, struggles and hard times. Once you actually make it through a tough situation, and are on the other side of things it's much easier to see your blessings and growth earned through the trial.
- I am grateful for my defective body that makes it impossible to deny that God is real, and is watching over me. My disability is a blessing because I constantly find myself in situations that require me to ask for help and remind me that I am nothing without God.
- Lupus has been a blessing because it has forced me to exercise and live a healthier life. I have also learned to more fully appreciate the good days, when I don't ache or have much pain, and I don't feel like sleeping all day.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sunday Is The Best Day Of The Week
- Tonight I am grateful for home and visiting teachers. It's just nice to know that certain people are thinking about you, and watching out for you. It is also nice to do the same for others.
- the Atonement. Wow. Through repentance, tomorrow really can be a new day; no matter how big or small the mistakes of today, or how many times we make the same mistakes.
- The temple, and the eternal relationships and covenants we create there.
- The wisdom of children
- Modern day prophets
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Right Now
- I am grateful for education, and the great minds, past and present, that have given us knowledge and great inventions
- I am grateful for books, the internet, and the many other ways we can achieve life-long learning
- I am grateful to be living in this time, and no earlier in the history of the world.
- I am grateful to be "well rested" today
- I am grateful for budgets
Friday, November 27, 2009
Just Say No...
- I am thankful that I did not venture out into any of the Black Friday chaos today.
- and warm slippers
Thursday, November 26, 2009
My Desire Is Bigger Than My Stomach" Or...The Thanksgiving Edition
I am so grateful that my life is filled with LOVE. I have so many people that I love, and so many people that love me. Love is a wonderful blessing.
These are just a few of my nieces and nephews (out of 25,) in random order
I love many people, (you know who you are) unfortunately all cannot be pictured here:)
Hot Blonde Prudes
I Went to check on Black Friday Deals At Amazon.com, and instead got sucked into a discussion about quality of life for Non-LDS people in Utah. There were tons of comments, so I only read the first page of five, but this was by far my favorite of the bunch.
iv heard theres a lotta hot blondes with blue eyes there... prude though.
my friend from utah told me all about it.
my friend from utah told me all about it.
My addition: Most of those "Hot blondes" color their hair, and are actually from California, but I know a few purists.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Smelly Gratitude
- Good smelling laundry detergent--At the moment, I am using a non scented detergent. My clothes come out smelling like nothing, and I have the urge to wash them again. I am comforted by the fact that the bottle is almost empty, and I can buy some of the good stuff soon.
- The scent of baking pies. I don't get to eat them, but I do get to smell them, and that makes me happy.
- Clean kitchen
- Clean bathroom! (It has been way too long since I cleaned my bathroom...)
- Energy--(Again, way too long since I've had much energy)
- I am grateful that the poo man, (don't you wish that were your job title?) came today. He was two days behind schedule this week, and Olivia has been enjoying quite the feast. No more late night snacks for her for a few days.
- .94 cents. I am .94 cents rich.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Two Days Of Gratitude Are Better Than One
I know soooooo many people were disappointed when I didn't post yesterday, but I was very sick this weekend. I'm not good at being sick, I whine incessantly. Luckily, I'm the only one around to hear my moaning, so I don't feel too bad. Sometimes it's hard to be an adult, and when I'm sick I just want to be taken care of, and that is what I whine about, in case you wondered.
Yesterday, I was grateful for:
- my daily gratitude list that I write here, because it forced me to at least think of gratitude, on a day I normally would not
- A queen-sized bed, that allows me to just roll to the other side of the bed, when one side gets dirty (sorry, but it's true)
- patient dogs with amazing bladder control
- Hymns
Today I was grateful for:
- Bleach, I love the smell of bleach
- Clean clothes
- Good friends (by that I mean friends who are also good people)
- and health
- A toothbrush and Listerine (there is no substitute for Listerine)
- lots of pretty new bruises to look at because of an adventure I had in the middle of last night
- Chap Stick
Friday, November 20, 2009
Oh, The Blessings of Today....
- A nap
- The water damage in the bathroom has been fixed, the toilet secured, so that it no longer has the ability to move five inches to the right or left, and the bench attatched to the wall. Thanks, Mike!
- My aides, family and friends: everyone who helps to facilitate my independence
- A new shoe rack, that accommodates all of my shoes, and even encourages more shopping...just kidding
- dinner at In N' Out, which means I also got out of the house today, wahoo!
- A warm and soft Alpaca poncho to keep me warm, and is much easier to wear than a traditional coat.
- Conditioner- at last!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Because Women are Wonderful, and Hold Everything Together!
- I'm grateful to be a woman, and thought I should record this feeling since it doesn't occur on a regular basis.
- I'm grateful for art and the beauty that surrounds me everywhere I look
- I'm grateful for a working washing and dryer
- I'm grateful that I'm not responsible to pay for a new washer in the rental apartment that I manage
- I'm grateful to know that money isn't everything, even though it does affect every area in our lives. Love, friendship, family, eternal knowledge and dreams are priceless.
- And, I am grateful for two new followers to read my ranting!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Late Night Musings After A Yucky Day
Today I am grateful for:
- Simplicity
- coloring books
- A big heart
- Chocolate Oranges (the best treat of the season)
- The return of rational thinking
- Good examples
- Having my sister in town for Thanksgiving
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Awkwardness!
- Do you like American Music? I like American Music, especially today. I think I have listened to that song about twenty five times today. The right song at the right time is a powerful force for good in my life.
- I’m also grateful for well meaning people who are trying to be nice, but the sentiment comes out all awkward and horrible. Some days, these comments can really get to me, while on other occasions they just make me laugh. I’m grateful that my reaction was laughter today.
- I’m grateful for a good roommate, and that our home is a peaceful place, at least for me.
Monday, November 16, 2009
...So I Decided To Challenge Destiny, And Unload The Dishwasher Anyway...Part 1
Today was a really awesome day, but I'll have to tell you about it some other time. I have so many thoughts that I would like to explain tonight, but I feel limited by my powers of expression, the words aren't available to me quite yet. But here is a little truth to consider in the meantime.
"Everything is going to get lighter, Even if it never gets better."
-The Mates of State
In other words, life is hard. Some trials are short-lived and others hang around for a lifetime. But if we keep trying, some burdens do lighten over time. We gain strength through experience. There is always hope.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Cheese Makes Everything Better
- A tasty dinner
- Warm boots- boots are fantastic.
- Children's laughter
- Having the scriptures on my ipod so that I don't have to read when I have a migraine
- Two dogs to love me
- going to bed early
- Seditives
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Gratitude: The Medical Edition
- Sleep-I actually got a little last night with the help of some extra medicine
- Afrin one of the best over the counter medicines ever created
- A hard head-literally-which seems to be immune to concussions after a lifetime of falls
- The opportunity to teach the 3-4 year olds at church tomorrow. I get to be surrounded by Sunbeams, and have an excuse to color. I am looking forward to it!
- A warm dress to wear to church in the morning.
- unexpected and kind text messages and emails that let me know people are thinking of me. Thank you:)
Friday, November 13, 2009
Gratefully Grouchy
Today I felt grateful for:
- 40 years of Sesame Street which has given us the muppets, songs like "Rubber Ducky" and "C is for Cookie", and celebrities singing different arrangements of the "ABCS"
- Oscar The Grouch, who was created to teach kids that they don't have to be happy all of the time. As long as you stay in your garbage can, you are aloud to be grouchy from time to time.
- This picture
see more Epic Fails - Podcasts
- The weekend
- The view from my office window
- Any product made by Febreze
- Prayer
Thursday, November 12, 2009
November 12th
It is only November 12th, but this month already feels quite stale to me. Life has been tough lately, not just for me, but also for many people that I care about. Something is in the air ( besides swine flu,) I guess.
Tonight I find myself in a negative frame of mind, and frankly, that needs to change. I believe in the power of thought, both positive and negative, and I can't afford to waste energy on the negative right now. Even though many people make gratitude lists in November, I tend to write these little reminders to myself whenever I am struggling.
I am a writer; that is how I process life best. I hear my own voice more clearly through writing. Thoughts that bounce off the corners of my mind are stable, and tangible when written. Although I have been trying to think positively all day, here is my list of things that I am grateful for today, because I know that if I write them down, my blessings will become my reality.
Tonight I find myself in a negative frame of mind, and frankly, that needs to change. I believe in the power of thought, both positive and negative, and I can't afford to waste energy on the negative right now. Even though many people make gratitude lists in November, I tend to write these little reminders to myself whenever I am struggling.
I am a writer; that is how I process life best. I hear my own voice more clearly through writing. Thoughts that bounce off the corners of my mind are stable, and tangible when written. Although I have been trying to think positively all day, here is my list of things that I am grateful for today, because I know that if I write them down, my blessings will become my reality.
- My family
- My friends
- chocolate chips, and cough drops (nice combo, don't you think?)
- My bed, I love my bed
- The ability to exercise
- Satin pajamas-I wish I could wear them 24/7
- My Home
- Music
- The knowledge that I have everything that I need, if not everything I want
- lots of cell phone minutes
- Stories of all types, whether they be spoken, sung, written down, or visualized.
Writing this list has, indeed, helped me helped me tonight. As a result, there will be more to come the rest of the month.
Friday, November 06, 2009
Meet My Mascots
Since I am single, and live with a roommate, my bedroom is "my space," my "sanctuary" from the rest of the world. As such, it is very important to create, a happy, peaceful, and positive environment in my bedroom. My two mascots sit atop my bed frame and help me to feel peaceful and positive.
My Lion is a fairly new addition, but he serves to remind me that I am loved. After he got tossed in the washer, and his once lovely mane became irreversibly matted, I learned not to judge a lion by his mane. He is still the perfect guy to hold when I'm having trouble sleeping. He also reminds me that absolutely everyone has bad hair days.
Kermit The Frog, (Kermie, to those that love him) has been with me for five years. He has the distinction of being the only thing I have ever purchased off of E Bay. I can't really say when my obsession with him began, but my love for him runs deep. He always is there, with his perma-grin, constantly smiling my way. Kermie reminds me to
My Lion is a fairly new addition, but he serves to remind me that I am loved. After he got tossed in the washer, and his once lovely mane became irreversibly matted, I learned not to judge a lion by his mane. He is still the perfect guy to hold when I'm having trouble sleeping. He also reminds me that absolutely everyone has bad hair days.
Kermit The Frog, (Kermie, to those that love him) has been with me for five years. He has the distinction of being the only thing I have ever purchased off of E Bay. I can't really say when my obsession with him began, but my love for him runs deep. He always is there, with his perma-grin, constantly smiling my way. Kermie reminds me to
keep smiling, and stay positive, even though it's not always easy being green.
I have never been the type of girl to collect dolls or stuffed animals, but I love my mascots, and consider them to be a big part of my having a positive attitude.
Monday, November 02, 2009
The Learning Channel Is Scary
I am one of those people who always has the TV on in the background. Background noise is comforting to me. I often have the TV going while I am cleaning in another room, reading, or even while listening to music at the same time.
I was actually watching TV on Halloween night, when I stumbled onto the TLC series, "I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant." In the spirit of Halloween, all of the cable networks were airing frightening or spooky shows, and "IDKIWP" was the scariest thing TLC could muster. Not that I'm complaining, it certainly does a good job of scaring me each time I see an episode. However, the TLC show that frightens me the most is "Jon And Kate Plus Eight," but that is a topic for another post.
As I was watching the show, there were a couple of statements made by the anouncer that had me laughing so hard I had to write them down for future reference. I'm sure I will find a way to work these soon-to-be-classic quotes into my creative writing assignments. But in the meantime, I just had to share the joy here. Imagine if you will, the announcer delivering these two jewels, in his most dramatic, cliff-hanger voice, before each respective commercial break.
"What came out of Glynis' pant leg will startle and amaze everyone in the room." Yes, Glynis was amazed when the nurse told her that there was a baby in her pants...
After all that drama what more can I say? The last time I checked there wasn't a baby hiding in my pants, but you never know what may happen on a crazy fall night.
You know that was just a bad joke, right?
I was actually watching TV on Halloween night, when I stumbled onto the TLC series, "I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant." In the spirit of Halloween, all of the cable networks were airing frightening or spooky shows, and "IDKIWP" was the scariest thing TLC could muster. Not that I'm complaining, it certainly does a good job of scaring me each time I see an episode. However, the TLC show that frightens me the most is "Jon And Kate Plus Eight," but that is a topic for another post.
As I was watching the show, there were a couple of statements made by the anouncer that had me laughing so hard I had to write them down for future reference. I'm sure I will find a way to work these soon-to-be-classic quotes into my creative writing assignments. But in the meantime, I just had to share the joy here. Imagine if you will, the announcer delivering these two jewels, in his most dramatic, cliff-hanger voice, before each respective commercial break.
"What came out of Glynis' pant leg will startle and amaze everyone in the room." Yes, Glynis was amazed when the nurse told her that there was a baby in her pants...
AND
"This fall night will take a bizarre twist when she finds herself attached to the toilet." How was she attached to the toilet? By the umbilical cord, of course! After all that drama what more can I say? The last time I checked there wasn't a baby hiding in my pants, but you never know what may happen on a crazy fall night.
You know that was just a bad joke, right?
Saturday, October 31, 2009
My Tribute To Winter
I hate Winter. I hate winter because my wheelchair does not do well in the snow, and as a result, I don't leave my house much. I hate winter because it effects my mood negatively and stiffens my muscles even more than usual.
On the upside, I like wearing sweaters, drinking hot chocolate, and snow is beautiful, if you don't have to drive in it. I also enjoy looking at other people's snow men:). I like the winter holidays, when families come together, and we are encouraged to be grateful and realize what is really important. Winter isn't all bad, I admit. There is beauty in every day, and blessings surround us;if we choose to see them.
Last Monday I had to turn on the heater. I had tried to postpone this step as long as possible, but on Monday the temperature in the house dipped to a chilly 63 degrees and hats and sweatshirts were no longer enough. Winter had arrived.
Why is it that 63 degrees is a pleasant temperature outside, but cold indoors?
For the past couple of days I have been drinking a lot of hot chocolate, and that seems to help me warm up for about five minutes. Last Monday, I was still freezing after my cup of hot chocolate, so I turned the heater on, slipped on a coat, climbed into bed, and shook my fist at the forces that have kept me living in Utah.
I realized that although it was only the end of October, there have been many signs of a long winter ahead. Sure, I can bundle up, wearing multiple layers, warm socks, and hats, and make friends with people who have fireplaces. But the cold will seep into my bones, and there will never be enough hot chocolate in the world to keep me warm until the spring thaw.
Cheerful thoughts, I know. Happy Winter!
Monday, October 26, 2009
An Autumn Walk
Here are some pictures I took about three weeks ago when I was on a long, rambling Sunday walk with Olivia and Roscoe.
Friday, October 23, 2009
"Why Don't You Just Take A Picture? It Will Last Longer"
I know, I know, another "Fail" post, but I just couldn't help myself. I have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair, so my whole life has been one very long disability awareness week. I have become so used to people stareing at me that I often don't notice the constant ogling until someone else brings the rubbernecking to my attention. Staring is just a part of my life, and I'm okay with it.
I have a great life. I don't have any complaints; but if I went to this school, I would.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
A Is For Abstinence
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Although I agree that "school girls" shouldn't have sex with older men,(or anyone else), this poster is way over top
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
How to Stop Tele-Marketers
Just follow my Dad's example, and tell the person you are speaking with "I shouldn't spend any money right now because I'm eighty years old and on my way out..."
Happy birthday Dad! I love you!
Sunday, October 04, 2009
B.Y.O.P.
I am staying with my dad this week, while my mother is in Florida visiting my sister. My parents only live a few miles away from me, but in some ways, visiting their house is like visiting a remote village in a far away country. No matter how often you have visited in the past, you never really know what to expect, or what you may find. You also never really know when the big storm may hit, causing the airlines to cancel flights and leave you stranded.
Because there are so many unknowns, I have learned to always come prepared. When going to their house always bring a book, cell phone, and any other incidentals that may serve to make your stay as pleasant as possible. When staying overnight or longer, the general rule of thumb is that you can't bring too much stuff. Don't take anything for granted.
For instance, on this particular trip, I brought my own cleaning supplies and can opener. However, yesterday I discovered an essential item I had neglected to bring along; a toilet plunger. I have looked in all the bathrooms throughout the house, and everywhere else I could think someone might hide a plunger, with no luck. So today I will go back to my house to retrieve my plunger. When will I ever learn? Always be prepared. and, of course, bring your own plunger.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Olivia goes down the Slide
Here is the long awaited video of Olivia going down the slide in January. Sorry the video is so dark.
The indistinct high pitched noises and crazy laughter in the background are coming from me.
Monday, August 31, 2009
An Unexpected Taste Of Heaven
Today I joined the whole foods revolution...accidentally. I went to the fridge to get what I thought was a pear. I noticed that this particular pear was a bit oddly shaped, with a bright yellow hue; but there was no question that it was a pear, right? Wrong.
As I bit into my fruit, the first thing I noticed was the extremely thick rind. There was also an abundance of seeds; and a fresh, but not really sweet taste. "This is Not A Pear, This Is A Summer Squash" my brain stated the obvious. "This is not a pear, not the sweetness I expected, but I like it a lot."
I continued eating, rind, seeds and all. It was delicious! Even now, I am craving a healthy bite of raw summer squash. The freshness of cucumber, combined with the texture of jicama come together to create a little taste of heaven. I have to laugh at this experience, but at least I can say I learned something new today...
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Modern...I suppose
I have a love-hate relationship with Face book.As far as I am concerned, Facebook is just another tool of social one-upmanship rather than social networking. Sometimes I stay far away from everything Face Book "on principal" and at other times I find myself framing my thoughts in terms of status updates. I admit my weakness. However, the quizzes are always fun. Today I took a quiz which told me the type of writer I am. I was horrified with the results, and thought the readers of this blog should be warned.
You resemble Joyce, W. C. Williams, and Woolf. The culmination of the Enlightenment and the nation-state has literally blown your mind: you represent consciousness in a stream, but this stream is fragmented (somehow). You're a big fan of Picasso, and it shows in your prose. People think you're scatterbrained and indecisive, but you know better! If you ever pause, paralyzed in print, it's because you're pinioned between the Great Wars, between old religion and modernity -- and because you ask big, perhaps impossible-to-answer questions like "Suppose there is a pigeon. Suppose there is" and "do I dare to eat a peach?" Fare forward, Modern Period! You are full of passionate intensity.
Joyce, and Woolf, Really?? That means my writing is equal to the mental wanderings of a depressed maniac. Read at your own risk.
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