Thursday night I had my Woman's Conference meeting for the presenters. I've been dreading it for a couple reasons 1)it means it really is real and going to happen and 2)now I've got to really start thinking about writing my message.
I thought the meeting was very inspirational. Julie B. Beck who spoke last night said, "the most important thing that happens is what we become while preparing." And "welcome the task that makes you go beyond yourself and you will grow." I left feeling confident that I could do this and that it will be a life changing experience for me.
Then President Samuelson (president of BYU) spoke and let's just say the pressure is on. He said,
-We were carefully selected from a pool of names to be presenters at this years woman's conference. It was not a decision that they took lightly.
-A lot of sisters come seeking answers to specific questions and have chosen your class for a reason...you will be there answers.
-If you create an environment so the Holy Ghost can teach, then you'll be successful.
-We are authorized to be a great blessing in the lives of those who attend.
Next Sandra Rogers talked about the Woman's Conference theme which is "Choose ye this day to serve the Lord". I should have known, but didn't know what this years theme was and couldn't believe that it was basically my word for the year. More than anything else I saw it as a tender mercy from God and knew I was inspired more than I had originally thought to pick "choose" as my word to focus on. She said,
-Our agency is so important that God was willing to loose 1/3 of his children for it.
-We need to actively seek after the Savior.
-Our choices are infinite.
-Christ exercised His agency to do the Father's will and by doing so He chose us.
-"Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself." -2Nephi 2:27
-Being proven is the Lord's grand test
-Help those attending feel a desire to come unto Christ by the choices they make.
-Each of us brings something to the Gospel that no one else can bring...we each have something to contribute.
When it was over I met the two other woman I'm presenting with. It was clear after reading their bios that the WC committee wanted to have a different perspective from women who were at different seasons of life. We talked about a few ideas, but agreed to take a few weeks to ponder about the topic and how we should split it up and meet again to discuss.
So I went from feeling inspired to a bit overwhelmed to inspired again. Like I said it was one of those events that helps you feel confident and full. I left feeling like there was a purpose for me and a reason for my being there. I'm so glad I attended (I'm surprised it wasn't mandatory).
************************************************************************************************************
I found out my class is Friday, April 30th from 2-3pm. When I told my friends I rode up with this info they said it was a hard time. I'm thinking, ya because I have to wait through both days before I present, but then I realized they meant because no one will be there. After confirming my suspicion she said, just don't take it personally. Duly noted. So if you want to be one of the few lucky woman in the room (you know you want to) and don't want to (or can't) go to any other sessions, I can get you a ticket for $8. Let me know by April 2nd and I can order if for you.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Friday, January 29, 2010
a good laugh
1. "What are the rules? I said & she said, Do exactly what I want whenever I want, make no demands of me whatsoever & love me forever, no questions asked & I said, how do you win? & she said, you don't understand. I'm the only one who wins & then she laughed & clapped her hands. Isn't it a great game? she said." - storypeople
I read this today and it made me laugh out loud. I'm in quite a good mood. It reminded me of Adam and I, the way we joke and knew he would get a kick out of it. So I guess it's for him and anyone else who wants to share it with their significant other and wonder if there's a little bit of truth to it. :)
2. I've decided Modern family is my new favorite show. I think the middle aged father, Phil, is my favorite character. I've been trying to find my favorite clip online, but to no avail so here is one that's pretty funny.
3. This was all followed up by playing pictionary at game night last night and laughing til it hurt at each other interpretations of the word. My proudest moments of the night was when I guessed "hallucinations", however, Adam and I lost big.
Enjoy your weekend!
I read this today and it made me laugh out loud. I'm in quite a good mood. It reminded me of Adam and I, the way we joke and knew he would get a kick out of it. So I guess it's for him and anyone else who wants to share it with their significant other and wonder if there's a little bit of truth to it. :)
2. I've decided Modern family is my new favorite show. I think the middle aged father, Phil, is my favorite character. I've been trying to find my favorite clip online, but to no avail so here is one that's pretty funny.
3. This was all followed up by playing pictionary at game night last night and laughing til it hurt at each other interpretations of the word. My proudest moments of the night was when I guessed "hallucinations", however, Adam and I lost big.
Enjoy your weekend!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
whole lot of megan
I kid you not if I don't get my exercise in at 6am before she wakes up, this is what I'm dealing with.
It's amazing what you'll find out though.
It's amazing what you'll find out though.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
15 minute thoughts
-Going to bed at 8:30pm is awesome, too bad I didn't sleep well. I wonder if going to bed so early was the reason?
-Bella is paying someone else's mom $15 to make her a hat. What's up with that? Should I be offended?
-I woke up to falling snow today and it made me smile, don't ask me why. If I don't have to be out in it I love it...too bad I'm going to be out in it all day.
-So I've decided we (everyone living with me) are not "landers" and I'm determined to change that this year...starting with them :)
-Last night we had a spontaneous Queen family sing off in the car. I should have recorded us singing/yelling our hearts out. Go figure, I think Adam won.
-I think I broke my little toe today hitting it against the wall and all Megan had for me was, "ya, that hurts".
-The thing about facebook is it leads you to believe you have way more emails than you actually do. I wish they would only send you your updates.
-Strangely I have the Wizard of Oz songs in my head.
-Damages season 3 started last night and I'm so looking forward to watching it, though, I'm so use to watching the DVDs I think it will be hard to follow along with it live.
-While I like to eat and I don't even mind cooking, I hate to think of what to eat. I wish someone else would prepare the menu for me. Any takers?
-That reminds me the Pioneer Woman cookbook should be at my door any day now. Maybe that will help.
-BTW how is she (pioneer woman) not 200lbs? I've seen her recipes.
-Buzzers ringing, it's time to get off. Yes, I have a buzzer. It's too easy to get lost online so I set a timer and it's totally changed my efficiency while on the internet. I hope there aren't any huge spelling errors because I've ran out of time...who am I kidding, I have to edit.
have a great Tuesday.
ciao!
Monday, January 25, 2010
time managment
A week ago at game night Jill mentioned this class she attended with her friend Collete that was all about organizing. She told me that Wednesday the subject for the class was on time management and suddenly my interest in the class turned into a need. I've had time management help on my list of things to conquer (ok let's be honest) get better at this year so I knew I had to be there.
It's amazing how quickly 2 hours can go when your so engrossed in the topic. I didn't want her to stop sharing and could have stayed there for several more hours. As she went through her 10 principles (below) there were some things that I thought, i'm pretty good at that and quite a bit of others where I realized, I have a long way to go to get where I want to be. HA, the story of my life.
P.S I saw Jill and Michelle's post on the class over the weekend and thought their notes were vastly superior to mine, you may want to take a look at their blogs, but for what it's worth this is what stood out to me.
[notes from the class]
10 principles I learned:
1. obey the law of the firsts
-do the most important things first and you will always find time for the rest.
-if time management is to be effective you must be full first. Then you can take care of your spouse, then the kids, and then you can save the world.
-don't try to do everything.
2. Important vs. Urgent
-take the urgent things in your life and move them back allowing time for the most important things. You do this by being prepared.
-One way to do this is by preparing dinner before noon. (I've been doing this for a while now and know that if I don't know what we're having in the morning I'm usually scrambling to come up with something at dinner time.)
-we do things by mood but we are never in the mood. (I find this to be so true with me. I make a list and do the things I want to first. I need to be better about prioritize what's important.)
-give up what doesn't matter so you can do what does.
3. Primetime
-everyone has a primetime where they are at their peak and get the most accomplished. Take advantage of the time you are at your best.
-a child who is well loved becomes a might source for good.
4. Launch & Land
-launching is the beginning and landing is the finish. Follow through.
-be on time
-put things all the way away (ie laundry)
5. Waiting
-have a plan when you have waiting time. (ie have a book)
-if waiting with kids teach them something.
-have a list of things you can do in 20 minutes
-don't wait uselessly.
6. Yes & No
-every time you say yes you are also saying no and vice versa.
-when we are prepared we'll have more opportunities to say Yes.
7. Turn Activity into Accomplishments
- never cook just once. make one thing and use it several times (ie roast)
-doing things less often better, makes you more efficient.
-make everything you do last longer (ie pick up extra items at the store so you don't have to go back)
8. play
-the woman who doesn't play is not fun to be around
9. stop before your exhausted
-alternate what you're doing with rest activities (ie activities that are done sitting down like bills)
-alternate staying at home with going out.
-look to this principle to go longer and not to be as tired at the end of the day.
-once your tired it's really hard to revive and start again.
10. time alone
-eliminate interruption to rejuvenate spirit.
-true alone time is when no one is asking you questions and there's no media to see or hear.
-giving yourself alone time even if it's only for a few minutes allows you to have more focus and peace.
last but not least don't let inspiration go unwritten.
*************************************************************************************************
I admit since the class I've had other things on my mind and haven't really given the class/my notes much thought. This morning though I visited Marie Ricks website (the woman who did the class) and am ready to give it a go. I found out she has a blog and I think it's fabulous that each today she has a prompt to help you stay organized. I think I'm going to try and incorporate it into my day.
have a good one.
It's amazing how quickly 2 hours can go when your so engrossed in the topic. I didn't want her to stop sharing and could have stayed there for several more hours. As she went through her 10 principles (below) there were some things that I thought, i'm pretty good at that and quite a bit of others where I realized, I have a long way to go to get where I want to be. HA, the story of my life.
P.S I saw Jill and Michelle's post on the class over the weekend and thought their notes were vastly superior to mine, you may want to take a look at their blogs, but for what it's worth this is what stood out to me.
[notes from the class]
10 principles I learned:
1. obey the law of the firsts
-do the most important things first and you will always find time for the rest.
-if time management is to be effective you must be full first. Then you can take care of your spouse, then the kids, and then you can save the world.
-don't try to do everything.
2. Important vs. Urgent
-take the urgent things in your life and move them back allowing time for the most important things. You do this by being prepared.
-One way to do this is by preparing dinner before noon. (I've been doing this for a while now and know that if I don't know what we're having in the morning I'm usually scrambling to come up with something at dinner time.)
-we do things by mood but we are never in the mood. (I find this to be so true with me. I make a list and do the things I want to first. I need to be better about prioritize what's important.)
-give up what doesn't matter so you can do what does.
3. Primetime
-everyone has a primetime where they are at their peak and get the most accomplished. Take advantage of the time you are at your best.
-a child who is well loved becomes a might source for good.
4. Launch & Land
-launching is the beginning and landing is the finish. Follow through.
-be on time
-put things all the way away (ie laundry)
5. Waiting
-have a plan when you have waiting time. (ie have a book)
-if waiting with kids teach them something.
-have a list of things you can do in 20 minutes
-don't wait uselessly.
6. Yes & No
-every time you say yes you are also saying no and vice versa.
-when we are prepared we'll have more opportunities to say Yes.
7. Turn Activity into Accomplishments
- never cook just once. make one thing and use it several times (ie roast)
-doing things less often better, makes you more efficient.
-make everything you do last longer (ie pick up extra items at the store so you don't have to go back)
8. play
-the woman who doesn't play is not fun to be around
9. stop before your exhausted
-alternate what you're doing with rest activities (ie activities that are done sitting down like bills)
-alternate staying at home with going out.
-look to this principle to go longer and not to be as tired at the end of the day.
-once your tired it's really hard to revive and start again.
10. time alone
-eliminate interruption to rejuvenate spirit.
-true alone time is when no one is asking you questions and there's no media to see or hear.
-giving yourself alone time even if it's only for a few minutes allows you to have more focus and peace.
last but not least don't let inspiration go unwritten.
*************************************************************************************************
I admit since the class I've had other things on my mind and haven't really given the class/my notes much thought. This morning though I visited Marie Ricks website (the woman who did the class) and am ready to give it a go. I found out she has a blog and I think it's fabulous that each today she has a prompt to help you stay organized. I think I'm going to try and incorporate it into my day.
have a good one.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
sunday thought
It's interesting, once I changed my attitude last year about going to church by preparing myself before hand, taking notes, and looking for the reason I was there I got so much out of it. Today was no exception.
[taken nov 2009]
It was our Ward Conference and while that doesn't really mean anything to me except that our stake leaders will be there, it was different because our focus was on the conference theme Mosiah 24:14 and it's exactly what I needed. The scripture reads:
It's a funny thing, I read through this last week knowing it was our theme and it means something so different to me today as I heard it again. I specifically love the part where it says, God will ease our burdens so that we may stand as a witness of Him. We go though trials and struggles not only to gain experiences that help shape us, but also so that we will know of God's existence and great love for us. It is bringing comfort to me this afternoon knowing that God is mindful of each one of us and that all things that we pass through in this life are for our own good and have a purpose.
other comments that caught my attention
-God's help is available to us if we ask.
-Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
-Faith in Jesus Christ is not insurance against pain it's a resource when trials come.
[taken nov 2009]
It was our Ward Conference and while that doesn't really mean anything to me except that our stake leaders will be there, it was different because our focus was on the conference theme Mosiah 24:14 and it's exactly what I needed. The scripture reads:
And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
It's a funny thing, I read through this last week knowing it was our theme and it means something so different to me today as I heard it again. I specifically love the part where it says, God will ease our burdens so that we may stand as a witness of Him. We go though trials and struggles not only to gain experiences that help shape us, but also so that we will know of God's existence and great love for us. It is bringing comfort to me this afternoon knowing that God is mindful of each one of us and that all things that we pass through in this life are for our own good and have a purpose.
other comments that caught my attention
-God's help is available to us if we ask.
-Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
-Faith in Jesus Christ is not insurance against pain it's a resource when trials come.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
monocromatic
I went looking for color. I'm thinking maybe the key in the bleakness of January is to have a fresh bouquet of flowers livening up my house. I've struggled more this January with the grayness and I've realized it's color I've been missing.
Strange though, when I went to edit my photos, it was the richness of the textures and not the colors that spoke to me.
Strange though, when I went to edit my photos, it was the richness of the textures and not the colors that spoke to me.
Friday, January 22, 2010
i'm choosing
For the last 24 hours I'm realizing the power behind my word for 2010. If there was ever a time to choose peace, love and trust it is today. Deciding to focus on the positive and seeing the light at the end of the tunnel is making all the difference in the world to my sanity.
"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it." ~Mary Engelbreit
I'm choosing.
"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it." ~Mary Engelbreit
I'm choosing.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
no regret | story people
I sometimes wake in the early morning & listen to the soft breathing of my children & I think to myself, this is one thing I will never regret & I carry that quiet with me all day long. - Story People
Monday, January 18, 2010
monday thoughts
* just watched my first episode of hoarders with Adam. He fell asleep in the middle of it and I couldn't wait to get up and start throwing stuff away. Feels so good to declutter.
*Speaking of TV did anyone watch the golden globes last night? I stopped watching award shows years ago, but this one I wanted to see because Ricky Gervais was hosting. Around 7pm when I remembered to turn on the TV, in some crazy form of fate I made it just in time to see Gerard Butler walk on the screen....and then he opened his mouth. I admit I rewound it a few times, ok maybe a lot of times and then shut the tv off. So much for Ricky Gervais. Was he good?
*I spent far too long today looking for a tool I need and can't figure out where I placed it. It's driving me crazy and giving me that nagging feeling in my gut like I'm forgetting something. Hate that.
*I'm ready for winter to be over. Ready. I need color.
*I don't know where it's coming from, but each of my girls wants to rearrange her room. I don't know why I'd be so surprised, when I was young I frequently rearranged my room and loved what a difference it made. I guess we all crave change every once in a while.
*this photo makes me happy
*I'm getting my hair done tomorrow and have been thinking of doing something different. I'm dreaming of cutting it short again, but I won't...not yet. Not quite ready I guess. Does that make me a wimp?
*it's 10:00p, why am I hungry?
*Speaking of hungry, I really want the Pioneer Woman cookbook. Can't believe I haven't bought it yet. In fact I think I will head over to amazon right after I post this since I have a gift certificate waiting to be used. It's only $13.
*woke up this morning feeling so so, kinda blah (lots on my mind from the night before). Thankfully I'm ending the day feeling myself again.
*Speaking of TV did anyone watch the golden globes last night? I stopped watching award shows years ago, but this one I wanted to see because Ricky Gervais was hosting. Around 7pm when I remembered to turn on the TV, in some crazy form of fate I made it just in time to see Gerard Butler walk on the screen....and then he opened his mouth. I admit I rewound it a few times, ok maybe a lot of times and then shut the tv off. So much for Ricky Gervais. Was he good?
*I spent far too long today looking for a tool I need and can't figure out where I placed it. It's driving me crazy and giving me that nagging feeling in my gut like I'm forgetting something. Hate that.
*I'm ready for winter to be over. Ready. I need color.
*I don't know where it's coming from, but each of my girls wants to rearrange her room. I don't know why I'd be so surprised, when I was young I frequently rearranged my room and loved what a difference it made. I guess we all crave change every once in a while.
*this photo makes me happy
*I'm getting my hair done tomorrow and have been thinking of doing something different. I'm dreaming of cutting it short again, but I won't...not yet. Not quite ready I guess. Does that make me a wimp?
*it's 10:00p, why am I hungry?
*Speaking of hungry, I really want the Pioneer Woman cookbook. Can't believe I haven't bought it yet. In fact I think I will head over to amazon right after I post this since I have a gift certificate waiting to be used. It's only $13.
*woke up this morning feeling so so, kinda blah (lots on my mind from the night before). Thankfully I'm ending the day feeling myself again.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
sunday thought
This story was told today in Sacrament meeting and it really hit home.
"And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver..."
Malachi 3:3
This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?' He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'
"And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver..."
Malachi 3:3
This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?' He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'
Friday, January 15, 2010
everyday trauma
Bella came home Monday night talking about health and fitness. Apparently in school they had a class about the food pyramid, how to eat right and keep your body healthy through exercise. After telling us all she learned she asked if she could use the treadmill sometimes to exercise. I chuckled at the thought, but told her she could whenever she wanted to.
Surprisingly the next night after dinner she wanted to exercise. It was funny the way the girls made a game of it. They all dressed up in tank tops, shorts, and tennis shoes and wrote out on the dry erase board activities like push-ups, sit-ups, etc. that they had to do. I spied on them and it cracked me up to see them "exercising". They were actually doing it and trying hard too. Bella was running on the treadmill while watching everyday Italian on TV and the other two were on the ground attempting push-ups.
I figured that would be it, but last night they were all excited to do it again. This time I went down with my camera thinking surely this will be my last opportunity and again got a good laugh that they were actually exercising. After I left, right around bed time, I heard the girls screaming as they walked up the stairs. Megan was crying about "not doing it" in a voice that started to alarm me. Turns out Bella was on the treadmill, tried to reach for something that was in her way and fell so that the belt on the treadmill basically rub the skin off her thigh (aka a really bad rug burn). Turns out Megan was crying because of what it looked like and despite the fact that she kept saying "I didn't do it", she was the one who actually turned off the treadmill and freed Bella. She keeps going around saying, "I saved Bella's life".
Lucky for Bella there was no school today so she had a lazy day on the couch. She can get around just fine, but at one point she did say, "Mom, will I need crutches?" I expected to hear nothing less from my sweet Bella...she's pretty dramatic. It wasn't until about 1/2 through the day that I realized her injury could have been much worse and it probably wasn't so smart of me to let her use the treadmill without some safety tips like putting the safety cord around her wrist so if she fell it would shut of automatically. I guess I still need to get use to have a almost 10 year old.
I got to wondered when everything's healed up will the excitement about exercising go away? I don't know, but I do know one thing for sure that Megan said and hope she'll soon forget, "exercise hurts".
Surprisingly the next night after dinner she wanted to exercise. It was funny the way the girls made a game of it. They all dressed up in tank tops, shorts, and tennis shoes and wrote out on the dry erase board activities like push-ups, sit-ups, etc. that they had to do. I spied on them and it cracked me up to see them "exercising". They were actually doing it and trying hard too. Bella was running on the treadmill while watching everyday Italian on TV and the other two were on the ground attempting push-ups.
I figured that would be it, but last night they were all excited to do it again. This time I went down with my camera thinking surely this will be my last opportunity and again got a good laugh that they were actually exercising. After I left, right around bed time, I heard the girls screaming as they walked up the stairs. Megan was crying about "not doing it" in a voice that started to alarm me. Turns out Bella was on the treadmill, tried to reach for something that was in her way and fell so that the belt on the treadmill basically rub the skin off her thigh (aka a really bad rug burn). Turns out Megan was crying because of what it looked like and despite the fact that she kept saying "I didn't do it", she was the one who actually turned off the treadmill and freed Bella. She keeps going around saying, "I saved Bella's life".
Lucky for Bella there was no school today so she had a lazy day on the couch. She can get around just fine, but at one point she did say, "Mom, will I need crutches?" I expected to hear nothing less from my sweet Bella...she's pretty dramatic. It wasn't until about 1/2 through the day that I realized her injury could have been much worse and it probably wasn't so smart of me to let her use the treadmill without some safety tips like putting the safety cord around her wrist so if she fell it would shut of automatically. I guess I still need to get use to have a almost 10 year old.
I got to wondered when everything's healed up will the excitement about exercising go away? I don't know, but I do know one thing for sure that Megan said and hope she'll soon forget, "exercise hurts".
Thursday, January 14, 2010
gratitude journals are ready
After all day in my studio I am finally done with the gratitude journals. I will have them posted on my etsy site tomorrow morning most likely around 10am. Because of the interest I wasn't able to do orders so they are first come first serve. I hope you like them.
Thanks to those who were interested in buying them. It was a lot of work, but I enjoyed it immensely.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
12of12 | January
[click here to enlarge]
-6am wake up call, but couldn't get out of bed
-laundry
-spend some time reading with Megan and my book, "Rough Stone Rolling".
-Megan had dance
-made it to the library and grocery store to pick up food for lunch
-enjoyed my completely painted room. Adam stayed up late Monday night finishing it, which is why I went to bed late as well.
-wish the sun had made an appearance. Sick to death of the inversion.
-had lunch with some friends and made chicken noodle soup
-picked kids up from school
-went to violin lessons
-had plenty of car time
-Bella and the girls decided to exercise after dinner (more to come on this later)
-one of my favorite things at the end of the day is tucking my girls in and hearing about what's on their mind. Of course it's always enjoyable for me to walk in and see them engrossed in their books.
-started the final stages of the gratitude books and got 3 finished.
-watching season 1 of Friday Night Lights while I worked.
-wrote in my journal
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It was funny yesterday I woke up thinking about taking pictures and then went on my way. It wasn't until 9am that it dawned on me, I hadn't taken one. And then when my neighborhood friends came over for lunch I completely forgot to take pictures. Ugh! See what I mean about remembering. Oh well, I have 12 photos that I feel represented my/our day perfectly so I can't worry about what was missed.
I was happy to see so many of you willing to play along with me. I'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with. I'm curious, this morning were you happy to wake up without your camera on you the entire day or were you eager for more? I go back and forth between the two. Today, I could do it all over again. Regardless, I hope you had fun yesterday. I think it's going to be a great year documenting the 12th and believe me when I say, you'll get hooked.
ciao,
amy
P.S. I've added mr. linky so you can add a link to your site and share the 12th with us.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
deliciousness
Right about now, after not sleeping so well last night, this is looking so inviting. Good thing it's made or I don't know if I could with stand the temptation.
Monday, January 11, 2010
12of12 template
Go here to down the template I use. Here are some quick steps for those of you who are familiar with Photoshop.
1. download file and open in photoshop
2. open image you want to put in square
3. add image to template file by dragging it in using the move tool
4. look over at the layers palate and move the image just above the square you want it to go in.
5. with the image layer active hit alt+ctrl G (opt+cmd G) or go to layers menu and click create clipping mask. This will clip your photo into the square.
6. if the image is too big, most likely it will be unless you changed size before hand, click ctrl or cmd T and while holding the shift key down move the bounding box around the image at the corner to shrink the image down to the size you want. As long as you keep the shift key down while moving, the image will keep it's original dimensions.
7. When you get it the size you want hit return or enter.
8. Use the move tool to move image inside the square to your desired position.
repeat steps 2-8 for the rest of the images.
If you need a visual I think Michelle's Marc did a great job explaining it here. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have a question. Thanks.
1. download file and open in photoshop
2. open image you want to put in square
3. add image to template file by dragging it in using the move tool
4. look over at the layers palate and move the image just above the square you want it to go in.
5. with the image layer active hit alt+ctrl G (opt+cmd G) or go to layers menu and click create clipping mask. This will clip your photo into the square.
6. if the image is too big, most likely it will be unless you changed size before hand, click ctrl or cmd T and while holding the shift key down move the bounding box around the image at the corner to shrink the image down to the size you want. As long as you keep the shift key down while moving, the image will keep it's original dimensions.
7. When you get it the size you want hit return or enter.
8. Use the move tool to move image inside the square to your desired position.
repeat steps 2-8 for the rest of the images.
If you need a visual I think Michelle's Marc did a great job explaining it here. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have a question. Thanks.
12 months + 1 year = 144 photos
I've had a lot of people ask me what does 12of12 mean? Well, you can go here to read more about it and where I got the idea, but basically each month on the 12th you take at least 12 photos as a way of documenting that day.
I did this last year (2009) and it was one of my favorite projects. Surprisingly enough, I remembered to do it each month and what resulted was these 12, if I do say so myself, delightful photo gatherings. (click month to enlarge image)
January (monday)
February (Thursday)
March (Thursday)
April (Sunday)
May (Tuesday)
June (friday)
July (sunday)
August (wednesday)
September (saturday)
October (Monday)
November (Thursday)
December (saturday)
I absolutely loved this challenge and of course loved the result that I'm going to do it again this year. Will you join me and do it this year? I've had some comments and a few emails asking me how you can take so many different photos each month. It does seem like it may be hard to do, but it's not.
1. As similar as some days can feel each day is different. Even if your thinking, I stay home or go to work and do the exactly same things, I think your frame of mind/mood will prompt you to take different photos and help you see your day differently than the others. I try to really think about my day and what makes it different and focus on that. If it's a school day I will usually take a picture of our morning routine or after school routine. I will also take random photos around the house or yard to show the change of seasons (ie leaves changing colors or decorations). There are so many things you can do to make each day look unique even if your feeling it's like any other day.
2. And if they are similar each month, who cares it's your project. At some point you may want to document the same thing over time. I always like to include my schedule off my phone. It gives me an idea of how busy or free I was that day. Including self-portraits are great too because you never know when you'll make a big change in your look. I also like to record what book I'm reading at the time. If the books the same then at least you'll know it took you more than a month to finish.
Hopefully that gives you an idea and will encourage you to play along with me. If you do it comment and link your 12of12 post on my 12of12 post, which will most likely be on the 13th of each month, so we can encourage and enjoy each other captures. I will do a quick reminder on the 11th of each month so you'll remember to wake up on the 12th ready to shoot. I found that to be the most challenging when starting out...remembering.
I'm really looking forward to doing this. I hope you are too. Good luck!
P.S. if you're interested I would be more than happy to send you a copy of my 12of12 collage so you can easily add your photos. If you know how to add a file on your blog to download let me know and I'll add it for the taking. If not email me and I'll send it too you.
edited to add: I figured it out. Here's the file for those of you who would like it.
I did this last year (2009) and it was one of my favorite projects. Surprisingly enough, I remembered to do it each month and what resulted was these 12, if I do say so myself, delightful photo gatherings. (click month to enlarge image)
January (monday)
February (Thursday)
March (Thursday)
April (Sunday)
May (Tuesday)
June (friday)
July (sunday)
August (wednesday)
September (saturday)
October (Monday)
November (Thursday)
December (saturday)
I absolutely loved this challenge and of course loved the result that I'm going to do it again this year. Will you join me and do it this year? I've had some comments and a few emails asking me how you can take so many different photos each month. It does seem like it may be hard to do, but it's not.
1. As similar as some days can feel each day is different. Even if your thinking, I stay home or go to work and do the exactly same things, I think your frame of mind/mood will prompt you to take different photos and help you see your day differently than the others. I try to really think about my day and what makes it different and focus on that. If it's a school day I will usually take a picture of our morning routine or after school routine. I will also take random photos around the house or yard to show the change of seasons (ie leaves changing colors or decorations). There are so many things you can do to make each day look unique even if your feeling it's like any other day.
2. And if they are similar each month, who cares it's your project. At some point you may want to document the same thing over time. I always like to include my schedule off my phone. It gives me an idea of how busy or free I was that day. Including self-portraits are great too because you never know when you'll make a big change in your look. I also like to record what book I'm reading at the time. If the books the same then at least you'll know it took you more than a month to finish.
Hopefully that gives you an idea and will encourage you to play along with me. If you do it comment and link your 12of12 post on my 12of12 post, which will most likely be on the 13th of each month, so we can encourage and enjoy each other captures. I will do a quick reminder on the 11th of each month so you'll remember to wake up on the 12th ready to shoot. I found that to be the most challenging when starting out...remembering.
I'm really looking forward to doing this. I hope you are too. Good luck!
P.S. if you're interested I would be more than happy to send you a copy of my 12of12 collage so you can easily add your photos. If you know how to add a file on your blog to download let me know and I'll add it for the taking. If not email me and I'll send it too you.
edited to add: I figured it out. Here's the file for those of you who would like it.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
keeping a journal, take II
One of my goals that I didn't keep as faithfully as I would have like last year was writing in my journal. There are just so many things that get missed on a blog and thought a journal would be just the thing. Unfortunately somewhere along the way my journal writing petered off and I went from every day to once a month to twice a year. Very disappointing.
Today in church a man was quoting the church news and said, "I think that if you're going to make progress in any aspect of life, you have to keep track of that progress and you have to keep track of it somewhere. I think it's a good practice to use a journal as a workbook to keep track of progress."
This definitely hit a chord with me. I really liked that he said a journal is a way of keeping track of our progress. I don't know why I've never thought of it like that before because I've definitely taken note that my blog has done just that. I've at times, looked back at my 2005 self and seen how much I've grown as a person, but also creatively in those 5 years. I'm so grateful that I have a record and can see exactly where I've come from. I know a journal that has even more personal thoughts/experiences can do the very same thing and it gave me another push to start again and keep it up.
Another thing that caught my attention was President Erying's talk from Oct 2007 General Conference. He talked about finding ways to recognize and remember God's kindnesses and he did it by keeping a journal. He said, "As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done."
I realize I need to find more quiet moments where I can recognize the hand of God in my day. I know there are many instances in my life, but also in the life of my family where God has helped one of us. It's a shame to think how many experiences I've already let fall through the cracks and become forgotten. I believe seeing God's works everyday will change the way I see myself in the big picture and get a better understanding of my purpose.
I came home from church once again with the renewed desire and commitment to be better about writing in my journal. To write what's in my heart so my children will know who I am. To answer the question, what do I need to do to get from where I am to where I want to go? So I can everyday see evidence of what God has done for me and my family. I'm hoping that it will help me not only recognize the experiences more as they're happening, but that I too will be able to find opportunities to serve.
Now, I just need to find a way to make this desire last longer than a month or so...thoughts?
Today in church a man was quoting the church news and said, "I think that if you're going to make progress in any aspect of life, you have to keep track of that progress and you have to keep track of it somewhere. I think it's a good practice to use a journal as a workbook to keep track of progress."
This definitely hit a chord with me. I really liked that he said a journal is a way of keeping track of our progress. I don't know why I've never thought of it like that before because I've definitely taken note that my blog has done just that. I've at times, looked back at my 2005 self and seen how much I've grown as a person, but also creatively in those 5 years. I'm so grateful that I have a record and can see exactly where I've come from. I know a journal that has even more personal thoughts/experiences can do the very same thing and it gave me another push to start again and keep it up.
Another thing that caught my attention was President Erying's talk from Oct 2007 General Conference. He talked about finding ways to recognize and remember God's kindnesses and he did it by keeping a journal. He said, "As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done."
I realize I need to find more quiet moments where I can recognize the hand of God in my day. I know there are many instances in my life, but also in the life of my family where God has helped one of us. It's a shame to think how many experiences I've already let fall through the cracks and become forgotten. I believe seeing God's works everyday will change the way I see myself in the big picture and get a better understanding of my purpose.
I came home from church once again with the renewed desire and commitment to be better about writing in my journal. To write what's in my heart so my children will know who I am. To answer the question, what do I need to do to get from where I am to where I want to go? So I can everyday see evidence of what God has done for me and my family. I'm hoping that it will help me not only recognize the experiences more as they're happening, but that I too will be able to find opportunities to serve.
Now, I just need to find a way to make this desire last longer than a month or so...thoughts?
Saturday, January 09, 2010
miscellany
the guts of the books are all done now (printed, folded, punched, sewn, glued) and I'll be spending most of my day working on the outside so I can get these to you next week. I am waiting for a shipment of book board (I ran out) to come in and found out it won't be arriving until the 13th. So even though I'm ahead of schedule, it will most likely be Friday that they make it onto etsy. I will let you know though.
Painted with Hannah, Jenica, and Amy again Thursday night. We worked on our word for the year canvases. Here's a glimpse of what I was working on. Whenever I get together with other woman I realize why we need friends in our life. There's just something about the ease in which a conversion flows with girls and the importance of shared confidences and inevitable laughter that stays with you long after you've gone home.
Because I went painting Thursday night Megan woke up Friday morning wanting to paint with me. I guess there's something way more fun about using mom's paint and mom's brushes. She made a "butterfly flying in the fields" and I just messed around with layering paint on a small 5x7 canvas. For me it was just all about being with her and watching her explore.
Adam's been talking to me about painting our room for the last month or so. I've been against it because he wanted a ginger color and I just don't want to do any type of red (I've done it before and wasn't a big fan). Wednesday he told me he wanted to paint it this gray color that I love. I was excited as we really do need a change, but admit to being apprehensive when I woke up Friday morning and saw all the white patches covering the walls knowing he was getting ready to make good on his promise to paint. He got started on it this morning and I absolutely love it. It's much darker than before, but it's definitely what I had in mind, I don't know why I ever doubted. He's got a couple more Saturdays of painting to go, but so far it's marvelous. I'll definitely post pictures when it's done because we also plan on adding curtains and different lamps. I love how changing just a little can make such a huge difference.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
the letter
Have you ever been asked to do something that you're not quite sure you can do and for starters you don't know how you got asked to do it in the first place, but it's the kind of thing you can't say no too?
Ya. I got asked to do something like that and it's so hard to keep the I'm not worthy and really what can I offer feelings away...
Last week I got a letter in the mail. I should have taken the letter a little more seriously after seeing the BYU symbol in the left hand corner, but I opened it as if it was junk mail. Man, how I wish it would have been junk mail. So you can imagine my utter shock when instead it was a one page letter asking me if I'd be willing to participate in Woman's Conference at the end of April as a presenter to discuss the topic: "She....Worketh Willingly with Her Hands" (Proverbs 31:13)
I know, after you've whipped the shocked look off your face let me just tell you how shocked I was when I first read it. I was literally motionless. When I was finally able to compose myself I read the letter over and over, double checking to make sure it was really address to me (it was) and then felt the panic set in. Tears welled up in my eyes and I stared pacing the house, they want me to do what? I can't do this! There are so many more woman out there who are more qualified than me that could do this. Can I do this?
Deep breath...
I just got off the phone with the woman who sent me the letter telling her, Yes, I would be willing to participate. It's a good thing I've had some time to think about this, I'm calm now and feel peaceful about the whole thing. I have a different understanding today than I did the moment I opened the letter. I've been praying for some time, over a year in fact, to find ways to use my talents for good. I know I have a desire to create for a reason and I keep searching for the answer. Whether or not this is it, perhaps part of it, I'm not sure, but I do know I cannot let this opportunity pass me up. I'm grateful for someone believing in me enough to think I could do this and grateful that I feel peaceful today knowing that I can.
That is today. I'm quite certain it will be around the middle of March when I'll start crying again and will need lots of encouragement.
***************************************************************************************************
P.S. If anything (stories, talks, quotes etc...) occurs to you about that topic please email me, I would love to hear what you have to say. I've decided not to even think about this until after the big meeting at the end of this month where they give me all the details and I meet the other 2 woman I'm presenting with, but I guess it can never be too soon to start compiling ideas.
Ya. I got asked to do something like that and it's so hard to keep the I'm not worthy and really what can I offer feelings away...
Last week I got a letter in the mail. I should have taken the letter a little more seriously after seeing the BYU symbol in the left hand corner, but I opened it as if it was junk mail. Man, how I wish it would have been junk mail. So you can imagine my utter shock when instead it was a one page letter asking me if I'd be willing to participate in Woman's Conference at the end of April as a presenter to discuss the topic: "She....Worketh Willingly with Her Hands" (Proverbs 31:13)
I know, after you've whipped the shocked look off your face let me just tell you how shocked I was when I first read it. I was literally motionless. When I was finally able to compose myself I read the letter over and over, double checking to make sure it was really address to me (it was) and then felt the panic set in. Tears welled up in my eyes and I stared pacing the house, they want me to do what? I can't do this! There are so many more woman out there who are more qualified than me that could do this. Can I do this?
Deep breath...
I just got off the phone with the woman who sent me the letter telling her, Yes, I would be willing to participate. It's a good thing I've had some time to think about this, I'm calm now and feel peaceful about the whole thing. I have a different understanding today than I did the moment I opened the letter. I've been praying for some time, over a year in fact, to find ways to use my talents for good. I know I have a desire to create for a reason and I keep searching for the answer. Whether or not this is it, perhaps part of it, I'm not sure, but I do know I cannot let this opportunity pass me up. I'm grateful for someone believing in me enough to think I could do this and grateful that I feel peaceful today knowing that I can.
That is today. I'm quite certain it will be around the middle of March when I'll start crying again and will need lots of encouragement.
***************************************************************************************************
P.S. If anything (stories, talks, quotes etc...) occurs to you about that topic please email me, I would love to hear what you have to say. I've decided not to even think about this until after the big meeting at the end of this month where they give me all the details and I meet the other 2 woman I'm presenting with, but I guess it can never be too soon to start compiling ideas.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
pieces
As of yesterday we are back on a schedule. As much as I loved my luxurious sleep ins during the holiday break, it feels good to get back on track. My organizing/purging mood that started after Christmas is still with me even though you can't tell I touched the basement at all. Sigh. I'm hoping to get to each room by the time February comes around. Today I took 4 bags to the DI. Feels good to give/throw stuff away...doesn't it?
I keep thinking to myself, so much for resolutions. Five days in and I've already eaten a weekly size portion of candy. I thought I had better willpower than that. Apparently I need to take it once step further and just get it out of my house. I admit to being sad about that. I do love candy after lunch. What do you do to satisfy your sweet tooth?
I'm working as quickly as I can to make the gratitude journals so they'll be ready by next week. I spent all day yesterday printing and was only able to complete 4 books (that's just the printing mind you). I figured out it took me 2 hours to print one book so today I've been calling around and think I will be going the professional route. Just doesn't making sense otherwise.
I could definitely use a bit of this clarity today. I took this photo Satruday morning through my studio window and was amazed by the bright blue sky I woke up to. Today it's gray and drab. Although I'm feeling great, the incessant grayness does have a way of sneaking in from time to time. Man, I wish it would snow again to wash it all away.
Sunday, January 03, 2010
my focus | 2010
Before I begin I realized I didn't really close out my word for 2009, GIVE. I guess I mention it now because I want you to understand that picking a word to focus on isn't something I do passively. It's a process and takes time. The reason is, I've found in the last three years that I've done this, the word I decide on really does have an affect on my year. I think about it often and tailor goals around it. This past year was no exception. I did something things, which I choose not to share at this time, for those in my neighborhood and it completely changed the way I thought of service and love. It made me think about others more and gave me a desire to find more ways and opportunities I could give. I'm sad to move on, but all good things must come to an end.
*************************************************************************************************
2010
I've been struggling to find this word for weeks now. Some times it comes easy...this one did not. I was beginning to wonder if I would ever find the connection when this morning I was reading the Sunday school and RS lessons using the scripture app on my phone and the word CHOOSE stood out to me as if it were in bold letters. I stopped and sat there a minute looking at it thinking, could this be it? How could it be? What does it mean? It's so simple.
Since then each time I say the word, hear, or see it I know that it's the right choice. It's perfect for me in many ways:
1) I personally prefer action words. I really need something that will motivate me to DO all year long.
2) Our agency is one of the greatest gifts God gave to us. I'm so grateful to Him for giving me the experience to decide for myself which path I want to take and what I want to do with my life. Each and every day I consciously choose His path and to follow His words. It's not always easy, but I know without a doubt it's where I'm suppose to be.
3) Choose and desire are so closely related and I believe if you desire something it becomes a part of you and you can't help, but seek it out. For example, I used to say to Adam all the time, "I wish I could do... or I wish I knew..." He would always come at me with, if you really wanted it then you would do it and immerse yourself in it. I think about that often as I've found it to be so true. If I truly want something I will think, do, and speak of nothing else.
4) Choosing is not a word that will let me live passively. I'm not the best at making decisions, but by not making a decision I am still deciding. I simple can't have that.
5) Like I said before, our agency is very powerful. If we wake up and choose to have a good attitude chances are our day is going to be vastly different then if we choose otherwise. In a sense, the choices we make each day effect the we live and who we ultimately become.
This year I want to choose to be positive, to spend my time wisely, to be engaged in meaningful work, to serve, to listen to the spirit more, to go to the temple, to use my talents, to be happy, to give more, to be healthy, to read good books, to open my heart to possibility, to have confidence and to not be afraid.
[because I couldn't go another day without a picture and I was having some fun in photoshop]
I really do think it's going to be a good one.
Have you chosen a word yet?
*************************************************************************************************
2010
I've been struggling to find this word for weeks now. Some times it comes easy...this one did not. I was beginning to wonder if I would ever find the connection when this morning I was reading the Sunday school and RS lessons using the scripture app on my phone and the word CHOOSE stood out to me as if it were in bold letters. I stopped and sat there a minute looking at it thinking, could this be it? How could it be? What does it mean? It's so simple.
Since then each time I say the word, hear, or see it I know that it's the right choice. It's perfect for me in many ways:
1) I personally prefer action words. I really need something that will motivate me to DO all year long.
2) Our agency is one of the greatest gifts God gave to us. I'm so grateful to Him for giving me the experience to decide for myself which path I want to take and what I want to do with my life. Each and every day I consciously choose His path and to follow His words. It's not always easy, but I know without a doubt it's where I'm suppose to be.
3) Choose and desire are so closely related and I believe if you desire something it becomes a part of you and you can't help, but seek it out. For example, I used to say to Adam all the time, "I wish I could do... or I wish I knew..." He would always come at me with, if you really wanted it then you would do it and immerse yourself in it. I think about that often as I've found it to be so true. If I truly want something I will think, do, and speak of nothing else.
4) Choosing is not a word that will let me live passively. I'm not the best at making decisions, but by not making a decision I am still deciding. I simple can't have that.
5) Like I said before, our agency is very powerful. If we wake up and choose to have a good attitude chances are our day is going to be vastly different then if we choose otherwise. In a sense, the choices we make each day effect the we live and who we ultimately become.
This year I want to choose to be positive, to spend my time wisely, to be engaged in meaningful work, to serve, to listen to the spirit more, to go to the temple, to use my talents, to be happy, to give more, to be healthy, to read good books, to open my heart to possibility, to have confidence and to not be afraid.
[because I couldn't go another day without a picture and I was having some fun in photoshop]
I really do think it's going to be a good one.
Have you chosen a word yet?
Saturday, January 02, 2010
gratitude book interest?
I've had a lot of inquires the last 5 days about whether or not I'm going to make more gratitude books. I've been considering it, but because the year has already started I wasn't sure if you'd still be interested. It would take me at least 10-14 days to get a bunch made so please email me or comment if you're interested in one. I'm selling them for $35.
thanks,
amy
**Please keep in mind if the demand is high I won't be able to make them all so for now it will just have to be first come first serve. I will of course let you know when I'm putting them in my etsy shop.
thanks,
amy
**Please keep in mind if the demand is high I won't be able to make them all so for now it will just have to be first come first serve. I will of course let you know when I'm putting them in my etsy shop.
Friday, January 01, 2010
a lot can happen in a decade
Once I started thinking tonight about closing out this decade of my life I started to think about all the things that's happened in the last ten years.
*The first one that occurred to me is I became a mother. It was the one thing I always wanted and the hardest thing I've ever done that has challenged and taught me in ways I would never have learned otherwise. Though, it has been challenging it has been the best decision (tying with marrying Adam) I've ever made. It definitely taught me the most important things in life are usually the hardest and the most rewarding.
*Adam and I came up with the concept of SEP, which completely changed our marriage and life together.
*I began my love for photography. By focusing mainly on the everyday it's definitely been the source for me to see life in a totally different way and appreciate the little things.
*I bought my first film SLR camera which quickly turned into my first digital SLR camera (2005). And what would you know, now I'm considering going back to film and having my own darkroom.
*I turned 30. For some reason and I'm not sure why this seemed like a big turning point in my life, like for whatever reason I actually understood things differently and had the desire to live my life more fully. I've loved my 30's.
*I went to Europe for the first time and hopefully not my last.
*We moved homes twice, which actually doesn't seem too much considered how much we've moved our married life.
*I started blogging. This has been a big one for me as well. I associate the start of my creative boom because I started blogging and it certainly helped me during those lonely days at home making friends over the internet.
*Adam and I became owners of our first Tivo in 2001. We've been enjoying the deliciousness of being able to record television ever since and don't know how we got along without it.
*I got my first cell phone. It's funny I remember when Adam got one after we were first married (1996) and thinking, why in the world do you need that. Of course he was traveling a ton so it was nice that he could get a hold of me whenever he needed/wanted. I really only used mine for emergency purposes until I got the iphone 2.5 years ago.
*I began to explore my world through paint. Never in my life did I ever think I would paint.
*I became a reader.
*911 happened. I never in my life thought I would witness an attack on our country let alone be alive when the world now readily uses words like terrorist attack and War on Terror. It definitely changed the way we all live. Strange to think it wasn't even 10 years ago that we could walk up a terminal without having a ticket and welcome our family or friends home.
*With 911 came the beginning of homeland security.
*Hurricane Katrina hit and really made me think more about being prepared and how important it truly is.
*Technology is always changing and no surprise to make it on the list, but it's fun to see how far it's come in 10 years. Things that make the top of the list for me are ipods (how in the world did we ever go without it), apps, wireless (I'm hoping the next time I make this list I will say that wires no longer exist), flat screen TVs/monitors, and HD.
*With the popularity of the internet came sites like youtube, myspace, facebook, twitter, gmail, and ebay. Of course Google is now a household name.
*Other pop culture notables that I can recall: reality TV, Michael Jackson died, Twilight saga, Ugg boots, and skinny jeans (not a fan though I do own a pair).
*other significant events:
first African American President in America
the economy going from good to bad to worse
Winter Olympics came to my town
Swine flu aka H1N1 virus made it on the scene
It's crazy to think how much goes on in a 10 year period and how drastically my life changed. Makes me excited to see where the next 10 years will take us.
*The first one that occurred to me is I became a mother. It was the one thing I always wanted and the hardest thing I've ever done that has challenged and taught me in ways I would never have learned otherwise. Though, it has been challenging it has been the best decision (tying with marrying Adam) I've ever made. It definitely taught me the most important things in life are usually the hardest and the most rewarding.
*Adam and I came up with the concept of SEP, which completely changed our marriage and life together.
*I began my love for photography. By focusing mainly on the everyday it's definitely been the source for me to see life in a totally different way and appreciate the little things.
*I bought my first film SLR camera which quickly turned into my first digital SLR camera (2005). And what would you know, now I'm considering going back to film and having my own darkroom.
*I turned 30. For some reason and I'm not sure why this seemed like a big turning point in my life, like for whatever reason I actually understood things differently and had the desire to live my life more fully. I've loved my 30's.
*I went to Europe for the first time and hopefully not my last.
*We moved homes twice, which actually doesn't seem too much considered how much we've moved our married life.
*I started blogging. This has been a big one for me as well. I associate the start of my creative boom because I started blogging and it certainly helped me during those lonely days at home making friends over the internet.
*Adam and I became owners of our first Tivo in 2001. We've been enjoying the deliciousness of being able to record television ever since and don't know how we got along without it.
*I got my first cell phone. It's funny I remember when Adam got one after we were first married (1996) and thinking, why in the world do you need that. Of course he was traveling a ton so it was nice that he could get a hold of me whenever he needed/wanted. I really only used mine for emergency purposes until I got the iphone 2.5 years ago.
*I began to explore my world through paint. Never in my life did I ever think I would paint.
*I became a reader.
*911 happened. I never in my life thought I would witness an attack on our country let alone be alive when the world now readily uses words like terrorist attack and War on Terror. It definitely changed the way we all live. Strange to think it wasn't even 10 years ago that we could walk up a terminal without having a ticket and welcome our family or friends home.
*With 911 came the beginning of homeland security.
*Hurricane Katrina hit and really made me think more about being prepared and how important it truly is.
*Technology is always changing and no surprise to make it on the list, but it's fun to see how far it's come in 10 years. Things that make the top of the list for me are ipods (how in the world did we ever go without it), apps, wireless (I'm hoping the next time I make this list I will say that wires no longer exist), flat screen TVs/monitors, and HD.
*With the popularity of the internet came sites like youtube, myspace, facebook, twitter, gmail, and ebay. Of course Google is now a household name.
*Other pop culture notables that I can recall: reality TV, Michael Jackson died, Twilight saga, Ugg boots, and skinny jeans (not a fan though I do own a pair).
*other significant events:
first African American President in America
the economy going from good to bad to worse
Winter Olympics came to my town
Swine flu aka H1N1 virus made it on the scene
It's crazy to think how much goes on in a 10 year period and how drastically my life changed. Makes me excited to see where the next 10 years will take us.
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