...and a happy new year!

Ok, so I had a lovely Christmas at my sister's house. I even had presents, swo I worried for nothing. I got to hold Baby Jack (6 weeks old) a lot of the time. My sister laughed at me for wanting to hold a crabby baby, but I didn't care. and he was never crabby for long. She asked me once if I was trying to get it out of my system, holding babies, but I said I was just trying to soak up as much as I could. He's so little!! Most of my nieces and nephews have been monster children, but Jack is Beckie's smallest, and he's still so tiny! I think he's still under 9 lbs. He's healthy, no worries, he's just not a monster child. Like two of his siblings. I'll get pictures posted to flikr sometime this week, I'll let you know when.

There were a lot of really good moments, too. Bonnie and Malena's grandmother Omi knew one of them loved Cinderella, but she got her wires crossed as to which one. So when Bonnie saw she was getting Cinderella toys and Malena was getting Sleeping Beauty, she immediately asked Malena if she wanted to trade. It was so sweet. Bonnie doesn't care that much as long as she gets toys. I mentioned this to Beckie, when the girls were in the room, and referred to Malena as a Cinderella-freak. Then I said I was a Star Wars freak. Malena said, "No, you're a DOLL freak! And I'm going to buy all your dolls from you when I get older!" "She's got you pegged," Beckie said. That was so fun. Doug didn't pull his usual disappearing act either, which was also nice. My sister married well. In PA, though, the house was so small, it felt like we were always on top of each other, so Doug would disappear into the depths or out to the garage. Their new house is almost twice as big, with no stairs, and a huge, huge yard. They're thinking of getting chickens. They need to fence in the yard, though, or a portion of it. The back of the yard has a pond. Not good for three-year-old inquisitive boys to be around. I really like their new house. Their family room is so large! I think you could fit my whole house in it! Probably not, but it's really big. Plenty of room for several activities to be going on at the same time. Baby Jack hasn't been blessed yet, so I'm thinking I may have to go back in February or March...

Thank you to all my friends. I'm at risk of becoming extremely sappy, so I'll stop now, but I do appreciate all you do for me. I go through periods of extreme anti-social behavior, but having you there when I pull out of it means the world to me. Thank you. I hope you all had Merry Christmases too.

hello, my friends!

I've been feeling rather out of sorts lately. I'm not sure if I'm coming down with something, or if it's just my usual end-of-year depression coming on. If not for my wonderful friend Lori I would have no presents under my Christmas tree. I asked my family to send them all to my sister's house since that's where I'll be. Even at that, I rather expect four cards, not actual presents. Ah, the lame life of being a single person with no family of her own.

Recently a friend seemed to trivialize a Christmas song, "Feed the World". I suppose she can't be blamed, she probably wasn't even born when that whole thing happened (or at least was very small). Bob Geldof heard about the famine in Ethiopia and really wanted to help. All he knew how to do was write and produce songs. So he called in all his musician buddies, and they recoreded a song. It sold millions--I did my part. My friend and I went in on it together, since we were poor High School students at the time. There were stories of how people would buy boxes and boxes of the record (yes, it was before CD's) and then give them back to the store so they could be sold a second time. The song brought international attention to the problem, and my church even got involved, declaring a special fast (which is how the Humanitarian Aid department of the church got started--people were very, very generous, far more than was needed). Bob Geldof recieved the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts, and every time I hear that song I am reminded of a time when the whole world seemed to pull together to help others. Others that didn't even believe in Christmas, true, but really, all that was required was that the people who heard it did believe in Christmas. Unfortunately, Bob didn't know that the Ethiopian government would interfere in his efforts and refuse to distribute the food, so I guess it wasn't the whole world that pulled together.

I've made a rather big decision regarding New Years. I'm not going to the Single Adult New Year's Conference this year. I've been feeling a lot of pressure to go from friends who are going, but quite frankly, all I've been feeling is stress when I think about going. So I will be home, taking care of my cat, and probably going to the movies and reading books for about five days (I return from SC on Thursday). I may even get motivated enough to work on my house. Depends on how Christmas goes. But I do forsee a shopping trip in my future... We'll have to see how good the New Year's sales are.

I went to three parties last weekend. On Friday I had almost triple-booked myself, but I cancelled one. I met up with my friend at the Temple Visitor's Center and we listened to the Handbells by a group from Virginia. It was really nice. My friend isn't LDS, and when she told her co-workers what she was doing they got very concerned. Turns out that they got Mormonism mixed up with Scientology. Weird. Then I went to another friend's party (I had told her I would be late). I heard it referred to as a 'couples' party, so I'm not sure why I was invited, but I went anyway. I made out with a great magnetic white board (that still needs to be put up, but that can be one of my after-Christmas projects), and the person who got the gift I brought seemed happy (although her husband wasn't *g*). Saturday started out with a baby shower, which I always love to attend, but don't necessarily care for the games. I mostly like to see the gifts. I felt kind of cheap for only bringing a baby blanket when it was obvious some people had spent a good $50-70 on their presents. Later that day was the Ward Christmas party, which was great. I didn't even get stuck at a table with old people (which tends to happen to me--they seem to follow me around wherever I go). I found a table with young people and children and we had a great time. And I love my scarf (everyone got white fleece scarves). We tried to get everyone in the Ward Choir (who had been asked to sing at the last minute, from what I understand) to wear theirs when we performed. I hope it was appreciated.

I've also been thinking about the things Mom's do for us. Birthday parties, Christmas presents, phone calls 2-3 times a month. My Dad just can't pull it off the way my Mom did. He does his best, bless his heart, but sometimes I just really miss my Mom. She would never allow my siblings to forget me for Christmas. Which has happened twice since she passed away. And two of them that did it before have me again this year.

This post may seem entirely too selfish and 'poor me' to anyone who reads it. Thank you for bearing with me. I'll try to be more positve next year.

I don't expect to be blogging much in the next couple of weeks, so let me take a moment to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

A song in my head...

For the last several weeks Christmas songs have been running around in my head. Not annoying ones, my favorites. This started about the same time the radio started playing Christmas songs. It's kind of nice, having this soundtrack in my head, without even needing an ipod or anything.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a nice weekend, and that the storm really doesn't start until everyone is home from the ward Christmas party tomorrow night.

LDS equivalent of drinking...

Anyone know what that might be? I'm thinking pizza, lots and lots of pizza...

Work has been indescribably bad lately. We've been asked to cut yet another $70 million from our budget. Some idiot suggested we outsource Mission Operations. My job. Thanks. A lot. so I've been going to a lot of meetings where we try to figure out how to prove to those idiots that this would be a REALLY Bad Idea. Very RISKY. Somehow the guy at NASA HQ got wind of the idea, and now we have to justify why it's better for APL to do it than to have some university try to pull of our operations. If I weren't LDS, boy, I'd be seriously tempted to hit a bar on the way home. Really shouldn't break my diet, either, even though the diet isn't going really well. I haven't lost anything in a month. Haven't gained either, though, so it's not a total failure.

Three words: Cost Cutting SUCKS.
When can I get to my real job? If they hadn't just made me an APL employee, I'd seriously consider finding something else to do.

So for some good news, Kitty/Padme is officially mine. I spoke with the housesitter--really the girlfriend of the guy who lives there, who has been in Australia for the last 4-5 months and is considering moving there. She, on the other hand, has two jobs and her own place (hence the reason I never saw her). So when I offered to adopt Padme, they were grateful. She still likes to be outside more than inside, but I think she's happy I've stopped kicking her out of my house. She does like to attack my toes while I'm sleeping, though. That has got to stop...

I'm here, really. I just haven't been in a blogging mood for a while.
So what have I been up to?

Here comes FIOS!
Last Tuesday stayed home in the morning for the Verizon/FIOS people that never came (they'd rescheduled and didn't tell me) So I stayed home from work this Tuesday (the 4th) as well, and they did come, and now I have hundreds of channels to watch!!! As if I didn't have enough of a problem sitting in front of the TV! But now I get BYU-TV, so no more trying to listen to Conference on the internet or shlepping up to the Stake Center! I should probably try to make it up there for at least one session, but being at home is so much EASIER!!

My internet is much faster too--at least, faster enough to be noticiable. Given that I had Comcast Cable before, this is a rather interesting fact.

Snowfall
As many of my friends noted on their blogs, it snowed on Wednesday (why? Why couldn't it have been Tuesday when I was home anyway??). I did go to work, and didn't get hit by other cars, or slide around, or anything. But it was nice and peaceful with the snow falling outside and my office mate staying home (she lives in VA, can't really blame her for that). We got a lot of snow, 4-5 inches (I never heard the final count, but there was a lot of snow on the ground). I didn't believe the weather people when they said it would snow. I thought they were talking about Western Maryland, or someplace else. Or that they were lying to us again. But no, they were right, and there was a lot of snow. And the schools didn't close. That was kind of amazing. Especially since it really did accumulate and cause many, many accidents on the highways.

Holiday Party
I went to the Relief Society's HF&PE night last night. It was a Christmas celebration, at the home of the RS president. It was very nice, and the program was beautiful. Most people crammed into the kitchen to talk to their friends, but I get really claustrophobic in large crowds, so I went in by the fire and sat. People came to me, and meanwhile I got to enjoy the beautiful decorations and quilt. Our RS president is really quite talented.

During the program one sister read O Henry's "the gift of the Magi". She was very expressive in her reading, and transported me to a different time and place. It was very nice. The music was really nice too, performed by several sisters in the ward.

Tin Man
A mini-series on Sci-Fi channel this week. It was a re-imagining of the Wizard of OZ story, and having seen Sci-Fi channel re-imaginings I was prepared for the worst, but it was actually quite good. It even had several homages to the original that were quite cute, such as the protaganist being the great-granddaughter of the original Dorothy Gale, and being named after her. It wasn't until my FIOS was installed that I realized I wouldn't be able to tape it off, or record it using my DVD Recorder (not the one that came in the FIOS box, either). I'm going to have to look into that, although I don't tend to tape that much anymore, just the occaisional movie or mini-series. I suppose I could buy it... sigh.

The Neighborhood Cat
Anyone who's visited me in the last several months knows about the neighborhood cat. She seems to think she lives at my house. Course, I do feed her, and I did get a cheapo litter box for her. I can't bear to think of her outside in this weather. But she's not a stray. Her current owner has been on travel for the last several months, and the house-sitter keeps letting the cat out, then leaving for work. Leaving the poor thing outside the whole time, til she returns late at night (often after I go to bed, then leaves before I get up). Not such a problem in the summer, but now that it's cold, she really shouldn't be outside so much. So I have a little furry roommate. I call her Kitty, for lack of knowing her real name. Maybe they'll let me keep her, and I can call her Padme like I want to...


Hoping everyone is having a happy (or at least not terribly stressful) holiday time.

"Let them worship how where or what they may"

I like to listen to my scriptures on the way to work. For the last couple of days, I forgot to bring my CD case out with me to the car (I had to switch out my regular listening fare for Christmas music), so I've been doing without. This morning, frustrated with myself, I decided to recite the 13 Articles of Faith. I discovered that I need to review 5 and 12, and relearn 7 and 10. When I got to 11, it occured to me that if everyone in the world would adopt the 11th Article of Faith, the world would be such a better place.

"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may."

The level of tolerance, acceptance, and respect for all peoples everywhere implied by this statement could change the world.

I think it's significant that the Articles of Faith were written at a time when my church was under heavy perscution, having just been driven out of Ohio and Missouri (where it's no longer legal to kill Mormons, since 1972) for what they believed. A newspaperman from Chicago wrote to Joseph Smith to ask what we believe in, and in his reply the 13 Articles of Faith were first documented--not in such a formal way, but still there in infant form.

The idea of allowing people to worship what they please is not a new one, being one of the founding tenants of our very country, but we still have trouble implementing it. Anyone who stands up and says, "You're wrong, because you don't believe what I do" proves it. I still see a lot of this, most recently on the message boards for the tv show House. House had a supposed Mormon in his ranks of interns, and in one of the message threads talking about this, there was a person whose sole purpose was to state how horrible and awful the Mormons are because of what we believe. I know there are also narrow minded people out there who think that just because a person is Islamic that means they're a terrorist. And how many terrorists would there be if we got rid of all the ones who terrorize in the name of religion?

At this time of year, when Christians celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, when Jews celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa is celebrated, and the winter solstice occurs, may we all carry a little peace in our hearts, regardless of where we believe it comes from. Let everyone worship how, where, and what they may.

Scattered...

Hmm, haven't blogged for a while, as my Home Teacher mentioned to me last night. Yup, my Home Teacher found my blog, lol! This blog thing keeps getting bigger and bigger!

Anyways, I made a mistake in my last post. I actually have 27 nieces and nephews. Here's the breakdown (and yes, this is all from memory), from my oldest sibling to the youngest:
B&Y: 2 b, 1 g = 3
K&J: 1b, 1g = 2
M&J*: 4 g = 4
D&J: 3 b, 3 g = 6
D&R: 3b, 2g = 5
G&B: 2b, 1g = 3
B&D: 2b, 2g = 4

*I always feel like I should add the caveat that a) M&J are not married any longer, and b) 3 of the four g are Js from a previous marriage, but I don't really know why because M&J get along really well now and I still consider all the girls my nieces

Which makes 13 nephews, 14 nieces, for a total of 27. And one niece-in-law, and one great-nephew, and 3/4 great-unknown. I feel so blessed. The tradgedy is that they all live far away from me. So I make due with all my friends kids. So now I have over a hundred nieces and nephews!!! but don't ask me to list them... :D

I've been rather busy at work lately. Between that and generally going insane (a cyclic process most women can relate to), I haven't blogged much since Jack Jack was born. Two crises at work--one satellite went into safehold, and my other project went through yet another cost-cutting exercise that threatened my particular position. The satellite is better now; I wasn't able to help with recovery, but I was able to do all the daily tasks that needed doing and freed up the others to work on the recovery. The cost cutting exercise is continuing, but it doesn't look like my job will be cut. We worked it out to show that if they did their evil little plan they'd incur far more risk to the project than if they just kept things where they are. Silly NASA HQ thinking they can squeeze more blood from a stone. We've already cut out all the fat, where exactly are we supposed to cut from now???

Last weekend was really nice, though. Thursday/Thanksgiving I slept in and got some things done on my computer at home (which is still slower than molasses--time to take it to the Geek Squad, I think). Dinner was WAY fun--I went to Medieval Times with Jenni and her family. We got to see cute boys fight on horseback and off, lots of Sparks! (I love Sparks!), and lots of post-show flag fighting with the 4-year-old. So fun. The 8 year old was more mature about the whole thing, but we got in a few fights with her too :)

Friday I got up early and went to JoAnns, thinking "$1/yard cozy flannel" I did get enough for the backing of about 17 blankets, and a few tops, but most of the cute flannel was already picked out before I got there. I can always buy more of that later, though, and I have enough to see me through the current round of babies :) I had to wait in the store for almost 2 hours, though, and spent it most (un)wisely, looking throug the pattern books. I picked up fabric and patterns for two new dresses, and finally found a pattern for a shrug that I'd been looking for. so I spent way too much. But if I get busy, I should have new dresses for Christmas and New Years, as well as a new top and a couple more Christmas-themed vests. I'm so bad. I haven't even finished the Halloween vest I was making.

Saturday I rearranged furniture a little such that I now have a place to put my tree up. It also makes it easier for me to sew and watch tv at the same time, so hopefully this will encourage me to 'get busy'. Other than that, I wasn't feeling too well (related to the insanity mentioned above), so I stayed home and watched some movies.

Sunday was fairly normal--ward council, home to work on the computer some more, then back to church for four hours (choir practice, you know). The choir sang in sacrament meeting, and I thought we did rather well. After church I developed a splitting headache, so after my Home Teachers dropped by and I watched the 100th episode of Home Makeover, I headed for bed. I get a lot of headaches. I really should ask the doctor about that. Not migraines, just really bad, splitting headaches. I felt mostly ok this morning, though. Except now my throat hurts. Maybe I'm developing a cold...? But where would I have gotten it? JoAnns? I wasn't around many children in church, and a cold from there wouldn't develop for a couple more days...

Ok, you're caught up. I hope you had a merry Thanksgiving Day.

I'm an Aunt! Again!!

This one is number 26, his name is Jack, and he was born yesterday. That's all I know. My Dad called me last night to tell me. I will try to reach the family in the next couple of days, but since the baby was C-section I suspect my sister will be in the hospital for a few more days.

Yay!

Lots of babies!

So many babies this year. it's hard to keep track much less get to hold them all...

youyou not a meme

1. Name:
2. Birthday:
3. Place of Residence:
4. What makes you happy:
5. What are you listening to now/have listened to last:
7. What is particularly good/bad about my LJ:
8. An interesting fact about you:
9. Are you in love/have a crush at the moment:
10. Favourite place to be:
11. Favourite lyric:
12. Best time of the year:
13. Weirdest food you like:

RECOMMEND
1. A film:
2. A book:
3. A song:
4: A band:

PLUS
1. One thing you like about me:
2. Two things you like about yourself:
3. Put this in your blog so i can tell you what I think of you.
4. POST A PICTURE OF YOU! (Optional)

One True Talent

As you may have guessed, last week was not a good one for me. I get depressed, and then I have to retreat to my cave until I feel better. At these times I'm really not fit for social interaction. One thing always helps: holding babies.

I tell people I have one true talent. They laugh at me, because they think all the musical things I do are my talents, different talents to sing, play piano, etc. I suppose I tend to take those things for granted--I've been surrounded by them my whole life, and music is just like breathing or speaking to me. But I digress.

My True Talent is that I can put almost any baby to sleep. I hold them, and when I do, I have a natural rythm that rocks them to sleep. Lately at church there have been so many babies to choose from, but somehow I seemed to miss out on many of them. But last week I got to hold Nicole's baby, and this week it was Raquel's baby.

It always strikes me as a little funny when the moms ask if I'm ok holding their baby. I get the impression that they don't want the baby to be too much of a bother, or if the baby is fussy or something. What they don't realize is that I love babies. I won't give them back unless I absolutely have to. Like when they need to be fed (I can only feed bottle-babies), or when it's time for them to go home (I don't have a car seat). I even steal babies from other women who want to hold them too, although I do try to be considerate about that.

My sister Debi put me on to the best baby gift for me to give, too. I make baby blankets out of cozy flannel (100% cotton). I find cute patterns, and backs to match, and sew them together. I use a yard of 45-in material that makes a big, cozy blanket for the baby. My sister Beckie will be getting one for her fourth baby, but the one I made for her first may still be in use. The more they get washed, the softer and more comfy they become. And if the baby and family is in close enough proximity, I get baby-holding rights :)

So what do you consider your One True Talent? You know, the one thing that you can do that brings you joy and joy to others?

Friday at last

Halloween night went very well. I sat outside for about an hour in my costume, but not very many kids came so when I got cold I went inside. I still had a few more trick-or-treaters, so I waited until 8:00pm before I changes. And then I got a few more. I guess because Daylight Savings Time is still in effect there's not the big rush to get the kids out the door before it gets too dark/late? Anyway, I had about 30-40 kids, so while I have some candy left over, it's not a whole lot.

Thursday was book group, which was always fun. Somehow we manage to only spend about 45 minutes on the book before we get into really important things like potty training (although that was absent last night) and the funny things kids do. I did get to hold Nicole's baby for a while, so I didn't mind too much.

Today I got some bad news, though. My sister Beckie is moving to South Carolina tomorrow, and they've decided to completely bypass the DC area, such that they will not be coming by to see me or stay the night or have lunch or anything. I would offer to meet them in Hagerstown (they're going down I-81), but they've already decided that would be too difficult for me to do. So far out of the way, you know. Forget that there are outlet malls in Hagerstown. So after a small crying fit (I just *love* crying at work!), I'm a little better now. She said something about coming to visit me sometime, but I just know she won't. She'll find some other excuse not to. Granted, having 4 kids is a good excuse, so I can't even complain. So I told her not to worry about coming to see me. Ever. Didn't put it like that, but that's kind of how I feel. So much for having family in the area. They will be all gone as of Sunday. :( With gas prices it won't be that easy for me to just hop in the car and go see them either. The train goes down there (that was a very good suggestion), but it arrives at 1:00 am. Not even the rental car companies are open then, so I'd be stuck until morning and they decided to come pick me up. This totally sucks.

But it's Friday. Two whole days all to myself. Well, one anyway. And I have things planned for tomorrow as well. So I guess staying home and sulking is out of the question. I might on Sunday though. In the morning. Before chior practice. I missed one flipping week of choir practice and everyone that was there gave me grief about it. We weren't singing that week, I had a sore throat, I figured it would be ok. Nope. But I do get to help in Primary with the Sunbeams, so that will be good. Nothing like a Sunbeam to help you find a smile :)

Happy Halloween!

I love Halloween!

I've been getting smiles all morning as I have worn my witch costume to work--the same one I wore to the Harry Potter Book 7 release party. It is so fun. I even brought my belt pouch and have been handing out candy.

Last Saturday night was my ward's Trunk or Treat, to which I invited my friend Dina. She was in Renaissance Garb, I was in my Lady Sith outfit (complete with long black hair). We wandered around, looking at the games and costumes. I tried to entice the children to come with me to a far away galaxy to destroy the Jedi. Most of them turned me down, but I did get a few takers. I think they were a little disappointed that I didn't have anything really planned, I was just asking them. Oh well. I'll have something more planned next time.

Tonight I'm looking forward to handing out candy while reading my book. I'm only half-way through the book club's choice this month "Fire of the Covenant" (very good, btw), and the discussion is tomorrow. Oops!! I'll have to start next month's book a little sooner... Last year I had just moved into my house three days before Halloween, so this is really my second year doing the candy thing from my own home. It was so fun, and this year will be too, I predict. It's nice enough I will probably sit outside so the kids don't get thwacked by my storm door. Plus Daylight Savings doesn't kick in until this coming Sunday, so it will be lighter as the kids start going door to door.

So again, Happy Halloween! Be safe out there!

A week later...

For those who don't know (probably just my brother who reads my blog from time to time--the rest can skip this paragraph), an Evil Person entered our church building last Wednesday night during our activities, and tried to entice young girls to leave with him. He was successful with the fourth, who was found a couple miles away wandering around. Even the police were shocked that he would enter a church and do this. It has shocked and scared everyone in my ward, and in the way of such things brought us a little closer together as we increase our vigilance for all the children.

Nearly everyone has mentioned this to some degree on their blogs, so I thought maybe I should throw this out there to the great beyond. Or maybe I'm just being a troll?? I've been feeling a little disassociated from the matter (calling it an 'incident' seems to belittle it somehow, and I certainly don't mean to do that). I don't know who was involved, and I'm deliberately stopping myself from trying to figure it out, against my more 'natural' instincts. I don't have any children of my own, so I guess it's not as personal for me, although I am certainly in 'over-protective Aunt' mode.

I watch a lot of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and it has long bothered me how the kids would run around like crazy people at church with their parents barely knowing where they were or what they were doing. A few years ago one small child wandered outside the building and couldn't get back in. It bothered everyone in the Ward Council, of which I'm a part, but we couldn't seem to get the parents to understand that just because we're at church doesn't mean we're safe. Just because there are other adults around, doesn't mean they're looking out for your children. Whenever I see small children running around outside I tell them to go find their parents, but as soon as I was out of sight I'm almost certain they would turn around and start playing again. How do you encourage childhood and yet still keep them safe?

Well, my ward is taking measures to increase the safety of all who are at the building. From now on when someone unfamiliar enters the building they will be greeted by one of the bretheren who will--in a nice way--find out who they are and why they're there. This may have been enough to deter the Evil Person last week, but we'll never know for sure. He probably would have just gone somewhere else and tried to vicitmize someone else's child. Here's hoping and praying that the police catch him quickly.

Is it time to go home yet?

This is the perfect day for staying home. It's rainy and cool. Days like this a fireplace, cup of hot cocoa, and a good book are definitely in order. Comfy clothes, comfy chair, and a nice blanket too.

Add to that the fact that I have been completely unproductive at work this whole week, and you have one sick puppy whining to go outside.

I'm going to go back to pretending to work now. I already bugged the guys over at TIMED, although I need to go back in about 45 minutes to help take the pass (not that they need me to, but my mental state will be completly vegged if I don't). Maybe this document that I'm working on can be rewritten in Spanish. That should take some time...

Winter Solstice Concert

(I know, I'm just the blogging queen today)
I went to this concert three years in a row, but last year had to miss it. Anyone interested in going with me? If we can get a large number to go, the tickets are cheaper :)

From Ken Kolodner's website:
When:
Two shows on Decemter 15, 2007 3:30 PM and 8:00 PM
Where:
Kraushaar Auditorium, Goucher College, Towson, MD
Ticket Prices (based on quantity purchased):
1-14 $23.00
15 - 19 $21.00
30+ $19.00

It doesn't matter if we don't all go to the same show, but it would be more fun to go together. Children are welcome, although you may not want to pay so much for a child. The concert is mostly music, played on hammer dulcimer, fiddle, acoustic guitar, piano, flute and small pipes. Just three very talented musicians for a very worthwhile concert. For more information go to Ken's site

Let me know if you're interested!

Wildfires

Just read through some of the online reports about the wildfires in SoCal. I didn't realize there was one in Lake Arrowhead area. My nephew and his family moved out of that area just a few months ago, and I am so glad that they did. Why do some people think it's funny to start a fire just as the Santa Ana's begin to blow? DON'T THEY KNOW ANY BETTER!!??? It happens every 3-4 years, some idiot lights a fire just as the Santa Ana's begin to blow. I'm not saying all these fires are arson, some are caused by a cigarette butt someone didn't put out, or a campfire that wasn't extinguished properly, or that gets away from the camper before they can put it out.

And yes, the winds do get up to 100 mph. I used to have to walk to school in them. Funny, it was always on the days with 80 mph winds that the trees would fall down...

Still waiting to hear if my sister who lives closer in to LA was affected. My dad and brother David should be ok, they're in the alluvial plain with two washes between them and the fires (wash: where the water goes when there is water). My brother Blaine may have to evacuate, but I don't think so. They've had to in the past, since they're closer to the mountains.

Reading the stories of those that have had to evacuate makes me grateful for my 72-hour kit. I should go update it. But at least I have it. Two, in fact. One for my home, and one for my car.

Alas, poor FUSE

Yesterday was the party for the end of FUSE. I've blogged about this before--the satellite mission I was on for almost 10 years, that we suffered and worked and spent sleepless nights for. FUSE lost it's fourth wheel in July, not to be revived. It stopped so hard and so fast there was just no hope. So last Thursday they turned everything off, drained the batteries, and then turned off the reciever. It will be up there, in it's 500-mile orbit, for the next 30 or so years before it burns up in the Atmosphere.

So I went up to JHU, Homewood campus, to the Bloomberg building where I had spent nearly 10 years of my life working, and saw so many friends and colleagues. Bryce even came! He left after the third wheel died, accepting a position at UC Berkley in California, on the THEMIS mission. Bryce is one of the people who kept FUSE afloat after the loss of the first to wheels, redoing all the science planning software, and making upgrades to it until we go the satellite working almost as good as before it lost those two wheels. It was really great to see everyone. Many of the original Mission Operations Team were there, Tom, Chris, Steve, Ted, Tim--and me, of course. I hope to get the chance to work with all these guys in the future. The satellite industry is a small world, so it probably will happen. In the meantime, they're all at GSFC, and I'm here, and we can always do lunch! :D

Bill Blair, the Chief Project Scientist Manager person, loves to come up with lyrics appropriate to every occaision. On Launch Day, he wrote words to the tune of "I did it my way", by Frank Sinatra, something like "Thank G it's Launch Day". There was one at our five-year anniversary, which I don't remember, and of course there was one yesterday. FUSE's Lament, to the tune of "Memory" from the musical Cats:

Midinight, not a sound from controllers,
Have they lost my transmissions?
I am flying alone...
In the darkness, I slowly spin, reflecting the moon,
Let my batteries... charge again!

Memories, all alone in my orbit...
I remember my launch day,
I was beautiful then.
With four wheels I could point where'er they wanted me to,
Now my four wheels will not spin.

First my gyro-scopes stopped working,
Then my wheels started swerving.
But torquer bars helped me to point at starts,
And soon I was observing!

Now, though, my observing is finished,
I am nothing but space junk,
I am cold and alone.
But my data are safely archived down on the earth.
Let my spectra... live again!

If it weren't for the reaction wheels, FUSE would still be observing. There's no reason why it couldn't have continuted for another 2, 5, or even 10 years. But still, 8 years for an original 3 year mission, with 50% efficiency in science gathering data (the goal was 25%), literally hundreds of research papers, a book, and three Astrophysical Journals dedicated to FUSE data, FUSE did good. The team did very good. I'm proud to have been a part of it.

I got Ghosted!!!

Monday night I came home after work plus a shopping trip and found that I had been visited by the Savage Mill Ghost!!! I was so happy to see this! I haven't been 'ghosted' for years. Last year I found out that the ward has been doing this since it's beginning, and I was actually a bit put out that no one had thought of me. Ok, so last year I moved right at halloween time, so that was probably it, but before then?? I really hate sounding pathetic, but I really do want to be included in things. So I'm happily making treats and will be figuring out who I should 'ghost'. I typically go for people that I don't think would get it otherwise. This late in the month all the 'popular' people have probably been hit already :)

The Weekend

Saturday

Went to Revel Grove again, this time to meet up with Shannon and Clare. I decided I didn't have to be there at gate opening, and that I could go incognito--I wore jeans and my Fight School T-shirt :) So I got there in time for the Stupina show, which I hadn't had a chance to see yet. Shannon and Clare showed up at the beginning but decided they were too hungry to stay so they left me there and went to find food. I joined up with them after my show. One of the events this weekend was that the Medieval Times guys were there, doing a sword fighting demonstration. We wanted to see that (of course), but as we had some time we signed up to get massages at the massage booth for after the demonstration. Went back, saw the guys fight--their swords made SPARKS!! I love Sparks! And the band isn't half-bad either (though if you're not from California in the 80's you may not get that).

We wandered until time for our massages--Clare had been moving furniture, so she got a back massage. Shannon went for the shiatsu, and I went for basic head, neck, and shoulders. We were floating for the rest of the day...

We went and saw Albannach, which I guess is a reinvention of Clanna Drumma. They were good, lots of drums and pipes (they're a Scottish group). Found out later that they'd started drinking too early in the day so they won't be back next year. Shannon's response to that was, "They're Scottish, what do you expect?" We did some shopping, trying to make our way through the crowds--it was PACKED. But then, at least it wasn't HOT. 10 degrees cooler than the previous week really made a difference. And that week was 10 degrees cooler than the last time I went. No rain days this year...

About 4:00 we ran into the Ravenwolves Clan (the family I hung out with on Opening Day). They were all in purple and black, per Midnight's request (she had her birthday that week). They all looked fabulous, but of course I forgot to get a picture (and even if I had, it would still be in my camera). The mom is in the Navy, and will be shipping out on an aircraft carrier in November, not to return until next May, so they're trying to fit in all the quality time they can before she goes (Shannon and Clare had actually met Ray, the dad, and the kids at my housewarming party). They're a really good family. It was great to run into them. I'll have to try to keep more in touch while Steph is gone--I'm sure they could use an 'aunt' on occaision.

Shannon and Clare then decided they were done so I walked them towards the gate. Then I went back to the Market Stage (you didn't really expect me to leave without seeing Fight School for the last time this year, did you??). I caught the last part of Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy--also very good. I can recommend his show to my friends with children. After Hilby, but before Fight School, there was a challenge to Dash from another actor (I know him as Mike, but I don't think that's his name this year, that was his name when he was with Teatro a couple years ago, I think). They both came out in straight-jackets, and then proceeded to wriggle out of them. Nymblewick tried to give us the history of the straight-jacket, but the crowd was too silly to listen. It was fun. Dash won, but Mike got the t-shirt??? Again, the pictures are in the camera. I really need to get them out of there...

Fight School was fun, as always. I try to remember significant moments, but I just can't. I do know that they were having so much fun they had to cut the gun duel for time. A mark of good, professional performers is that they keep to the time line. They start on time, and they finish on time. I, as an audience member, really appreciate that. Course, it could just be that because of the straight-jacket challenge, they had to cut something else. But that's ok. It was way fun!

Sunday
I totally crashed when I went to bed at 10:00pm on Saturday night. Actually, I did that Friday night as well, and even Thursday night I was so tired I just lay on my bed, thinking I'd get up in a few minutes and get ready for bed. Next thing I knew it was morning. Not sure what I've been doing to be so tired, maybe I should go to bed earlier? Anyway, Sunday morning I crawled out of bed around 11:30 am. So much for choir practice. I really meant to go, they really need people. So many have just stopped coming since Amy left, it's kind of sad. Liz can't get a good Christmas program together because no one comes. So I missed it too, this week. I did make it to Sacrament Meeting, but knowing that the lesson in RS was on Marriage, I skipped out and went home after SM. I have a really difficult time with the current Sunday School teacher. Not sure what my problem is, but I really don't enjoy his lessons. So I went home and--yup, you probably guessed it--took a nap. The neighborhood cat came in and took one too. After about two weeks of denying her entrance, she finally convinced me to let her in. I really shouldn't, I know, but I just have too soft of a heart. It gets me into trouble.

Then it was time to go to the SA potluck dinner. We had about 10-12 people there, which was really good. Next month is our annual Thanksgiving Dinner (more organized than a potluck dinner, but still food brought in by everyone). That should be fun, and bring in more people.

A Faire Day

Saturday I went to Revel Grove (also known as the Maryland Renaissance Festival). My purpose in going was to attend all of the Royal shows and do some serious shopping. It was accomplished.

I was late that morning, so I missed the Opening Ceremonies. I had seen it before, with the Edwards Family, so I wasn't too concerned. After I left my house I realized that I had left my ticket at home. I could have just bought a full-price ticket at the gate, but decided to return for the cheaper one I had already purchased (I hadn't gotten too far, only to Rte 1, so it wasn't a big deal to turn back). Since I was already running late, I accepted that I would miss Opening Cannon and moved on. Then I found the traffic as I left Rte 32 and joined I-97. It was then that I became concerned that I would miss Fight School as well. However, that did not happen. I managed to get in, parked, and through the gate by about 10:30 am. I bought my very first Scottish Egg--very yummy, btw, and made my way to the Market Stage.

I did meet Captain Romero and Hamish on the way there, but they were getting ready for the show so I didn't distract them. Fight School was brilliant, as ever. The funniest thing was during the first fight. Now, understand, this was the first cool day in about a month. Swords can be brittle when cold. During the opening fight between Captain Romero and Nymblewick, Captain Romero broke Nyblewick's sword. From then on, he was The Swordbreaker. It was so funny! When Nyblewick's line came up "why are you smiling?", instead of the normal "I know something you don't", it was "Because I broke your sword!" Too fun!

So after a very entertaining Fight School, I made my way to the Globe Theater, picking up some soup in a bread bowl on the way. Yum! I saw this year's production of "As You Like It", which was really well done. They manage to do the play in 1 1/2 hours, and I always wonder if they cut things out, but when I go to other productions I don't notice anything different... They are really, really good. Watch out for the sheep, though! They are hilarious!

After that there was about an hour of wandering and purchasing (and getting a pickle) I returned to the Globe Theater where the King was getting ready to meet Anna of Cleves for the very first time. It wasn't pretty. I believe the King's exact words were, "I like her NOT!" There was the typical courtier intrigues as Cromwell's adversaries circled like buzzards, and poor Anna was distraught by the big rude man that came into her room and kissed her on the mouth! (it was the King in disguise). The whole affair was mis-managed (which means that the performances were excellent).

I made my way then to the Lyric Stage where the comedic opera "Makin' ze meat-a balls" was being orchestrated by Leo DaVinci's brother Bob. Always a fun time, with participation (and participants) from the audience. And of course, there's always music, and everybody dies (it's opera!)

After the opera came the Chess Game between King Henry and Princess Anna. There were fighters (Fight School boys plus some others), fighting for each place on the board. Anna won, but sometimes to win is to lose. The King forced Cromwell into a fight, as the King decided to fight for Anna's side and made Cromwell defend the King's position. Not a happy place for Cromwell.

Once the chess game was over (with Cromwell having been made an Earl, don't ask me about the King's mind), I again went shopping, this time to Greentree Weaving, where I picked up the lovely outfit I wore to church on Sunday. I think I need to adjust the skirt a bit, but I absolutely adore the jacket. The pattern is called "berries", and is very purple-y with red, black, and blue intermixed. So comfortable.

I went to the Gatehouse stage where I caught the last part of the singing group performing there (Seraphim), and then listened to Sir Gregory of Carrolton play his guitar in a classical fasion in an attempt to bring some culture to Revel Grove. It was very peaceful there, under the trees, away from the dust of the mobs infesting the village (did I mention it was PACKED?? At least it was cooler, but the dust was still high).

I remained there for "Cromwell's Disgrace", wherein Thomas Cromwell has a vision of the future in which the marriage he orchestrated is annulled, Anne of Cleves is designated King Henry's "sister", and Cromwell is taken to the Tower and beheaded. It was amazing, truly. My heart was touched by Cromwell's predicament. No where to turn, in a trap of his own making, trying only to serve his King. Truly a wonderful performance.

And then it was back to the Market stage for Fight School: RELOADED!! Captain "The Swordbreaker" Romero was there, along with "Batista". It was so much fun. I again must state that once you know the lines, the best part of Fight School is when they ad lib. It gets rediculously funny.

Now, I didn't really run into any of my faire friends this day, for which I hope they will forgive me (then again, they didn't come up to me either). I saw a few in the distance as I was passing along the paths, but I'm afriad I was focused on my pursuits. My purpose was fulfilled--I saw the Royals Progress, I have a new drum, a new outfit, and a pillow with dolls embroidered on it. I ate my favorite yummy things, needing only two more to finish out my year (cheescake on a stick and some mac & cheese on a stick), along with my goal to try new things. So, with one more weekend left, I await with anticipation the closure next weekend will bring. Here's hoping it rains (to keep the dust down, keeping the crowds down is a side-benefit)

Oh, and I have a new personal record for getting out of the parking lot: 2 hours. I had a spot fairly close to the gate, in the outer section, but didn't realize that when you try to leave from there, you basically can't. I think I moved 4 car lengths in about 1 3/4 hours (I listend to an entire CD of E Muzeki and part of Hairspray while sitting there). I finally left that line, drove to the fence and joined the other line, and was out to the road in about 20 minutes. From there it was another 10 to Dairy Queen and a 20 minute wait for dinner and my blizzard (they only had two people working--on a Saturday Night?? I ask you!). So it was around 9:00pm before I got home. man was I tired!!

Ancient History meme...

This seems like a good year for me to do this (thanks to my friend on LJ for this!)

40 years ago (1967): I was born!!!

35 years ago (1972): My sister Beckie was born! I finally forgave her for usurping my position as the baby in the family a few years ago (JK!)

30 years ago (1977): Star Wars came out! My dad worked as the projectionist at a drive-in theater, so if we went in with him we got in free. We were also allowed free popcorn and free drinks (in very small cups). My brother saw it 20 times!

25 years ago (1982): Jr High school over, High school begun. From the top of the heap to the bottom in 3 easy months. 'nuff said.

20 years ago (1987): Just graduated from Ricks College, was on my way to Utah State University. I wanted to be an astronaut. I got to be an astronomer. Safer, some would say...

15 years ago (1992): I was at the University of Iowa, going to smokey bars to hear great alternative bands (Trip Shakespeare, anyone?). Really liked the long-haired fellow astronomy grad student, but he had a girlfriend. Got into watching Dr Who at midnight with other fellow astronomy and physics students. Oh, and I was in the Physics Band. I do a mean cover of the B-52's 'Roam'.

10 years ago (1997): Was firmly installed in Maryland, considering a job change from the X-Ray Timing Explorer satellite to the Far Ultraviolet Explorer.

5 years ago (2002): Still working at FUSE, spent most of my time hanging out with my friend Becky, having fun with my on-line fellow Star Wars friends, went to Star Wars Celebration II in Indianapolis and got to see Carrie Fisher.

2 years ago (2005): Still working at FUSE, went to Star Wars Celebration III, still in Indianapolis, and got run off the road by a truck on the way home. Have I mentioned that I hate trucks? The big, rude, 18-wheelers that think running over small cars is fun.

1 year ago (2006): Start work at APL as a contractor, for the Radiation Belt Storm Probes mission. Joined a book club with church women that have since become some of my favorite people to hang around with. Bought my first house.

Now (2007): Finally made APL staff, keep busy hanging out with friends from many different walks of life (renaissance festivals, church groups, work groups--you have no idea how diverse these people are, and I love them all!)

Savings and splurgings

I've seen this on several friends' blogs, and thought I would give it a shot. I don't think I can come up with 10, but let's see...

Ways I save:
1) I have an amount from my paycheck go directly to my savings account (do not pass Go, do collect 200 dollars). I would never do it on my own, and this way I don't have to think about it

2) I have three grocery store cards, and use them religiously

3) I try to shop sales (not very successful with this one, see number 3 on splurges list)

4) I only allow myself to eat out once a month or when under undue stress (unfortunately the stress thing has been happening a lot lately, time to recommit!)

5) participating in the Meal Swap group (if the meals are already made, I'm more likely to go home and have a decent dinner)

6) Use my AAA credit card for gas (5% back on every purchase at the pump!) I also have to pay this card off every month or I'm not allowed to keep it.

7) Buy in bulk. I love my BJ's membership, even if I only really shop there about once every 3 months. I also buy birthday cards in bulk, so I don't go broke trying to send a (typically late) birthday card to everyone in my family.

8) Make my own clothes. Haven't done this a whole lot lately, but whenever I want something unique, like a vest, I make it myself.

9) Taking care of my house and yard myself (I may be splurging on Merry Maids soon, though)

10) blockbuster online membership. I love to watch movies, and this way is so much cheaper than actually going to the movies. I get to watch lots of movies that are cute but not really worth the nearly $20 experience at the movie theater.


Ways I splurge:
1) Take the sister missionaries out to dinner once a month (sometimes twice if they're good *g*). I love to go out to eat, and I love their company.

2) I collect things. Dolls, Star Wars toys, other themes, movies (I must have a thousand dollars in DVD's alone!). Most of the time I look for sales and such, but if I really want it, I get it.

3) Impulse buys. I love to buy stuff, and don't really care that I don't need it until I go through my finances and realize that I couldn't afford it.

4) Renaissance Festival. I love to go, I love to buy stuff, but most of all, I love Fight School!

5) I go to the movies. I spend about $20 for admission and treats. Sometimes I have dinner beforehand too. It's a whole experience that I have always loved. And yes, most of the time I go by myself, but going with friends is also way fun.

6) Hair cuts. I get my hair professionally cut (and sometimes permed) every 6 weeks or so. I get the way expensive shampoo that makes my hair thicker and keeps it from falling out. So I'm vain, sue me ;)

7) Travel. I love to take trips. Used to go on long road trips to see historical sites, have a trip to Europe planned for next year. I love to go places and see things.

8) Science Fiction conventions. I love to go see in person the actors and authors of my favorite Sci-Fi and Fantasy shows or books. The artists too. This is a real splurge because there's always a dealers room where I can find things that aren't to be found anywhere else.

9) Costuming. I love to make costumes, and sometimes the materials get rather expensive. Most of these costumes are for the Renaissance Festival, but Halloween also figures prominently in my costuming plans.

10) Pets. I splurged on my dogs, and now I'm thinking about getting a cat...

I'm back!!

Did you miss me?? Did you know I was gone???

I wasn't gone most of the time, last week was crazy, and I crashed every night I got home and didn't have to go somewhere. Then I did go to PA to see my sister and her family--and help with the sorting/packing/cleaning that must go on when one decides to move. I only caught one session of Conference, the Sunday Mornin session, so this means I have to read or watch all of the other sessions in order to catch up. Which is fine. I used to read through the entire Ensign the month after Conference, and then I moved to reading the talks during lunchtime at work, so that I would read through everything at least once during the 6 months between conference. I've been slacking on that, so it's time to recommit. Although lunchtime is also my 'blog' time, so I may have to do something about that.

Last Monday I finally transitioned from Leased Worker (read: contractor) to APL staff. I was oriented all day long, and only had about an hour of time at my desk that evening. Which was ok, it allowed me to get ready for the next two days. The System Requirements and Mission Definition Review. Remember that presentation that I've been giving for the last month? That was for this. The first day went from 8:00am to about 6:00pm. I sat through it all, eating the cookies and muffins they supplied as brain food, and having lunch in the cafeteria (because we only had half an hour for lunch). The next day we thought we were going to be an hour behind as well, but managed to catch up. It started at 8:00am again, and went to 5:00pm. Again, bagels, cookies and cafeteria. So much for my diet. I gave my presentation at 4:15, and there were three more people after me. Mine was the one we were worried about, and I was so prepared. I think the dry-runs were actually worse than the actual review. The Review board was really good, asking questions that pointed out the flaws that we had wanted them to notice. I did get asked to stay after class--uh, I mean, after the day was finished, to clarify some points, which I did. My supervisor was right there too, supporting me. I got the sense that he was looking out for me the whole time, which was nice. Afterwards he kept telling me that I had been 'awesome'. I actually got quite a few compliments, although one was directed at the 'planet' vest that I had worn :) Astronomers always like that one *g*

So that's mostly why I wasn't heard from last week. Thursday was spent doing catch up, after the last bit of the review (8:00 am - 12:00, with a debrief at 3:30pm, I had a donut but brought my own lunch this time). Friday I helped over at TIMED again and then went to my meeting and then left for PA. I left at 3:00pm. I got to Beckie's at 9:00pm. A typically 3 1/2 to 4 hour trip took 6 hours. Construction plus traffic accident. I called Beckie and she helped me bypass the worst of it, but even on the bypass route there was a backup. sigh.

Saturday we sorted and packed and cleaned, and a Real Estate agent came over (I would have totally recommended Chris, but I think this was a little out of his area) to look at the property. The kids were crazy. All three of them bounced off the walls all weekend. Daddy and Mommy were a little crazy too. Normally Beckie's the one that holds them together, but she's 7 months pregnant with company coming over(not me, the RE agent).

Favorite moments:
Collin, just turned 3, is a kissing freak--loves to give hugs and kisses, and apparently freaks out all the little girls in nursery with this tendency.
Malena (5) asked me to come outside to play with her. I told her that I had come to help her mom clean up the house. She responded, "I want to help clean the house too!"
Bonnie, 7, made paper hearts for me. She laid them all out on the floor to show me, and gave some to me. I was able to convince her to pick them up, that her mom would only see a mess, even though we knew it wasn't a mess.
Doug, my bro-in-law, watching conference with me, moving the computer monitor so I could see better. He often does little thoughtful things like that.
Beckie, my sister, planting bright yellow mums in her front yard.

South Carolina!!

My brother-in-law has been very unhappy with his job. He has to make 2-3 international trips each month, and it has been very hard on him and his family. So he decided to find a new job. And he found one in South Carolina!

This means that my sister and her family will be moving. This is the family that lives in Pennsylvania, that I go to visit fairly frequently. So it's kind of happy/sad for me. I'm happy that they have a new opportunity, and that they'll probably be able to buy a bigger house, and that they're staying on the East Coast. However, it does mean about a 7-8 hour drive for me when I go to visit them (notice I did not say 'if'). This also puts them about 7-8 hours from where my brother just moved to Alabama. So I'm definitely sensing a road trip in my future, when my vacation time catches up to me.

This also means that I can try to get my sis and her family to come visit me on the way south. I mean, really. How many ways are there from PA to SC? And how many of them use I-95? And just where is my house? Less than a mile from I-95??? Maybe?? Mapquest had them driving out to Frederick and avoiding the Baltimore Beltway--I can see some logic in that, but since it's only 6 minutes longer to come through Baltimore (depending on time of day, I'll grant you that), I think I got her to consider it. I also know that if they don't stop on the way here on their move south, they never will come. Too far, too many kids (did I mention she's pregnant? Due at Thanksgiving time--this makes 4), she'll never come to see me if she doesn't do it now. I don't think I'll be able to take her kids for a weekend anymore either, it's just too far. Knowing that they wouldn't be staying here forever has pushed me into going to visit them as frequently as I could. When they were in NJ, I went once a month. In CT, I went once every other month, since Southwest flew from Baltimore to Hartford very cheaply. I'm kinda hoping I can find something similar from BWI to someplace in SC. Hmmm, I have a friend who's a pilot, maybe he can help?? Offer advice, at the least! Anyway, when they first moved to PA I went fairly frequently, but it's been tapering off for the last year or so. I'm so grateful I've had this chance to get to know my sister, my brother-in-law, and their kids. I have them for Christmas this year, so I'll be going down there for that. Unless the airline thing comes through, I probably won't be going there as much as I have to PA. I just don't drive long distance like I used to (I've started falling asleep at the wheel, not good). But maybe for the occaisional long weekend. And holidays :)

Thank you!

I did have a really nice birthday; thank you for all the well wishes :)

It was a very nice day. At work the last meeting of the day (a 2-hour mind-numbing afair) was cancelled, so I did take off a little early. Checking my email frequently I got to see all the birthday wishes everyone sent (probably a little shameless of me to advertise, but I really did enjoy all the happy thoughts sent my way). I went to a friend's for dinner and then got to play with her girls for a few minutes. Then home to find some treats had been left for me and another friend dropped by to leave some more. So lots of yummy treats for me! I got to talk to a brother (the nice, very forgiving one), and my dad (who promised me that my present was in the mail).

Thank you again, so much. Without my friends, it would once again have been just another day. Hugs to everyone!

happy birthday to me!

I have a little song running around in my head:

Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday to me
Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday,
Happy Birthday to me!

I bought some cake last night at the store, and I'm going to make dinner for me tonight and eat cake and ice cream (Ben and Jerry's Creme Brulee--oh, so yummy!)tempting to cut out of work early and go out to eat but I think I really should go to an HOA meeting this evening so might as well stay here).

I had a party of sorts, my friends had me over for games cookies and ice cream last Friday night (so fun!) and I got to go to the Ren Fest on Saturday with one of the same friends and her family. The 5-year old REALLY loved Fight School (I knew he would *g*) and I got to keep the 7-year-old for a while just me and her. That was very fun. We went to see Robin Hood, the Joust, and E Muzeki before wandering back towards the gate and looking through all the shops. I even bought two shirts from a Master Weaver. I'm going to have to get some more next time I go, I love them!

Sunday was normal--got up early enought, but then took a nap (I ask you, a NAP??? I AM getting old!) so I still was late to choir practice. Was starving by the end of church, but was fortunately assisting in Sunbeams and they had snacks so I didn't die. Got home (still starving) and had leftover pizza (from the night before--yum!) which is really good warmed up in the toaster oven, I must say.

Monday I had a raging headache by the time I got home so I didn't do a whole lot. I did manage to watch the three tv show premiers on NBC last night, though, and I liked them. Chuck was funny if a little predictable--loved seeing Jayne from Firelfy again (I know he has a real name but I forget it--oh yeah, he's a Baldwin). Heroes is going to be good this season, I can just tell. I love Hiro! I think he's my favorite! Journeyman was really good too--I wasn't sure if I would like this one or not, but I do. So my Monday night viewing schedule is now 'set' :)

Tonight after the meeting I'm going to come home and maybe watch Lincoln Heights. I mostly liked it last year, but I don't know about this year. It's basically a show about a family but gets a little scarey since it deals with them trying to make their neighborhood better (it's a really bad neighborhood--the dad is a cop and got a deal from the city to be able to afford a nice house there). Then I'm going to tape Eureka (sci-fi channel) and watch House. I never really know what to expect from House, but this year one of the (probably temporary) characters is supposed to be LDS, and I just want to make sure they do it right. Interesting that Mormons have been showing up on TV lately. Very. Even Gilmore Girls had a couple LDS references.

So nothing crazy, but I am in a much better mood than I expected. The Prozac musb be working *g*. I may go to dinner and a movie on Friday night, and go someplace where they sing to you for your birthday. I think that would be fun. Anyone want to come?

Something to get your mind going

a friend emailed this to me, and I though it was good enough to share... and I hereby tag everyone who reads this! :D

SCATTERGORIES...it's harder than it looks! Copy and paste into a new email.
When you are done, send it on, including to the person who sent it to you.
*Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following... *they
have to be real places, names, things...nothing made up!
Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same 1st
initial. You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question.

What is your name? Julia

4 letter word: Just

Vehicle: Jaguar

TV Show: Just shoot me

City: Jacksonville

Boy Name: Jude

Girl Name: Jamilla

Alcoholic drink: Jallepeno Schnops (I have a friend who drinks it--ugh!)

Occupation: Jet fighter pilot

Something you wear: jacket

Celebrity: Julia Roberts (that was too easy!)

Food: jicama

Something found in a bathroom: jackets on the floor

Reason for Being Late: just took one little shortcut...

Cartoon Character: Jane Jetson

Something You Shout: Just you wait!!

my Dream house!!!

How did they know???

Unfortunately I can't get blogger to display it, so you'll have to go here: http://julia0925.livejournal.com/63921.html#cutid1

I wish the dots were pink...

got bored of my old template, tried to find something new, was thinking I wanted something pink or purple-ish, but there's not a lot of selection in that color. Someday I'll have to sit down and make my own template, but until then, there are dots. I just wish that they were pink.

Been busy at work lately. Lots to do to get ready for the Big Review coming up the first week of October. We have a final flip-thru this Thurs and Fri, which shouldn't take too long since we don't have to present our slides, just flip through them and mention the things that are new. Since I have a Red Risk to present, I got to present that part at yesterday's team meeting. Silly me, I included in that presentation information that I had recieved from the instrument teams. I wanted to make sure I had understood what they had told me. Some of the teams were very instructive and helpful. One of the instrumenters--and of course he had teleconned in so I wasn't even sure who he was--started nit-picking about the slides themselves. I finally told him that I wasn't going to update those slides because they were never going to be seen again. Sigh. We were finally able to move on, and I didn't get a lot of grief when I finally threw up the graphic of the timeline. I hope I handled that appropriately. It's hard to know since my boss wasn't there (he's at a conference in California this week), and I don't think anyone else would give me input on how I did. Although, I imagine that if I really screwed up, I would be taken aside and Talked To.

In the meantime, a Yearly Event is approaching that tends to make me more crazy than usual. This year is worse because it's a Milestone Event, and I always promised myself I'd stop being smart-alec-y about my age on this particular milestone. Yes, it's my birthday. Always dificult because my family is usually far away. I have three sisters that remember me on my birthday (and I remember theirs), and if I'm lucky my Dad will send something before the end of the year, although since I did see him in July we can just count that. My brother already wished me a Happy Birthday, and I've even recieved a couple of cards (more if you count the stores that are giving me discounts if I spend my birthday money in them). It's also a reminder that it's one more year closer to the time when I will never be able to have children. In a way it's like a little death every year.

This year seems a little worse, because this year I leave the 30's behind forever. I feel like I should have a party, but I don't know when I could have it, and it's weird throwing a birthday party for oneself. I suppose it would be ok if I told everyone not to bring presents, otherwise it just seems lame. But if I did have a party, I would have two cakes. The first would be a tombstone with something like "RIP 30's" on it, and the second would be a celebration cake with lots of sprinkles and curlicues, "Forty and Fabulous". And I would invite Everyone. My poor house would be too small to hold everyone, but I'm sure only about 10 people would show up anyway. Well, maybe more. I did have quite a few people come to my open house last January.

So if I seem mopey over the next week or so, now you know why. Once I get out of my poorme stage, I'll be more cheerful again I promise. In the meantime, I'll just try to distract myself. Shouldn't be too hard this weekend, since My Friend and her three kids are braving the Renaissance Festival with me! It is Adventure Weekend, so that should be very diverting :D

And in the meantime, there are dots. Even if they're not pink.

More on Meyer

So last week book club was all about Eclipse. I mentioned this article: http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20049578,00.html
(Sorry, Cami, she states that she really is writing for 12-year-old girls)
I've been passing along to my sisters and to my star wars email group that they should try reading this series (always passing along that mothers should read before daughters do).

I still feel that Eclipse wasn't as good as Twilight. Bella annoyed me, the triangle annoyed me, and I really hated that I found the pattern of the books:
1) Bella moping around feeling miserable and hating herself for 3/4 of the book
2) Mad excitement running around the country or to another country or even out in the country trying to save Bella from being eaten. (oddly enough this part always brings me back into the book--I really do like my excitement)
Twilight kept my interest, New Moon did a pretty good job, but Eclipse? Well, it was ok. I'm kinda thinking both Jacob and Edward can do better...

My sister Beckie has now read the entire set three times. I think she likes it almost as much as Harry Potter (she read OotP so many times she had to buy a new book because the old one fell apart--literally and without help from her children).

a little bit of this and that

thanks, everyone, for the support on Friday. Considering what Kellie was going through, I really have no right to complain, as Joni says. And yes, of my four sisters, the one mentioned knows who she is. My brother (who reads my blog but rarely comments) knew exactly who she was. A much kinder person than I am, I'm afraid, as he always says that she means well. Yeah, right, tell that to my ex-sis-in-law that my lovely sister tried taking her kids away from. Like I said, Mike is a much better person than I am.

My presentation went... well, at least it's over now. Sort of. It was the 'dry-run' for the 'flip-thru' that happens just before the real thing, so I only have to do it two more times. Lucky me, I get to cover one of the very few hot topics, and the only real 'red' risk that we're carrying right now. Sigh. So my presentation went longer than it should have, but mostly because we had to go over the entire commissioning timeline and make sure we really did not fit into the 45 days we've been allotted. So I get to work on the presentation some more this week and try to fix the flaws in it.

Saturday I overslept again--I'm sensing a theme here. I did make it to my RPG group before they killed all the undead that we were fighting, so that was something. We managed to destroy the Heart of Darkness that we were after, although it was so hot in my freind's sunroom my friend started being concerned I might get heat stroke or something. I used to refer to myself as a Child of the Desert, but I may have been in Maryland too long. Or maybe I just really needed to eat some salt since all I was drinking was water and I may have flushed out my system. Probably a good thing I did not go to the RenFest then. Went home and mowed my lawn--after sunset. Watched Capricorn One, which I hadn't seen before. It wasn't what I was expecting, but it was really good. Far more suspenseful than I was expecting.

Sunday I did NOT oversleep--I made it to ward council, to church, to my meeting in Germantown, and then home again where I worked over my finances and realized that I simply must not spend any money this week (I get paid on Friday). I still blame the dogs--not without good reason. The Good Dog Rescue person I was working with told me they had torn up my check. Well, they hadn't. They cashed it. I didn't have enough surplus to cover it, so my overdraft protection kicked in (there's a reason I have it set up that way). So now I have to figure that out.

So not a terribly crazy weekend, but after stepping on the scale Sunday morning and realizing I gained 10 lbs in the last 3 weeks, I have three new goals. 1) add exercise back into my life. 2) Portion control! 3) go to bed earlier! Wish me luck!

dizzy, dopey, dreamy day

Had the worst dream last night. For some unknown reason I was living at my Dad's house (still had my berry-red Saturn ION, though). My sister, the one I really don't care for, had come to visit with her kids and a new baby. Not sure it's possible for her to *have* any more babies, but this was a dream; work with me here. She kept finding the lamest reasons to not let me hold her baby. I asked politely several times. She finally wrote me a rather nasty note saying that she would never trust me with her baby, that Dad had told her how I treated new-borns, and to stop asking. I was confused. I couldn't remember a time I had been anything but careful and sweet to babies, so I had no idea what my Dad had told her. He of course wouldn't tell me, and I remember thinking I needed to have them both talk to my friend Brenda, who did trust me with *her* baby. I woke up around that time, feeling a little sick at heart and more than a little like I had been drugged. Not sure what I ate last night, but no more eating after 9:00pm. The maisma has stuck with me all day long. I have to go give a presentation soon. Maybe I'll head over there early and try to get in a nap...

Lazy, lazy weekend...

Had all these plans for this weekend. Was going to go shopping, go to the movies, go to the Renaissance Festival...

I did mow my back yard, mostly. My friend came over and we worked on Quiet books for a while. I even managed to get prepared for my SA Committee meeting tonight. For the most part, though, I read. I read one book. It was an 800+ page book. And it was quite good. "Outlander", I forget the author's name. I stayed up late Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night reading. Spent most of Saturday reading, forbade myself to read on Sunday so I'd get something else done. Spent most of Monday reading too, and finished it. Stayed up that night too, but not quite so late, and on to the 2nd book in the series by that time. You see, this poor woman had stepped through two standing stones in Scotland, in 1945, and came out, still in Scotland, but in 1743. I had to see if she got back to her century before I could put it down. Didn't actually find that out until the second book, though. Course, the love story, which was the main part of the whole story, was very intense. I got a little tired of her doing silly, 20th century things like walking off by herself, getting in trouble, and having her 18th century husband (initially a marriage of convenience) rescue her. The last time she was able to rescue her husband, though, so that was good. She was married in 1945 and had a lot of anxiety about the propriety of her being married in two centuries--she didn't want to get married but that was the only way to protect herself from the evil 6xgreat-grandfather of her 20th century husband (who was a verra nice man, but his ancestor wasn't). So yeah, I'd have to recommend this book, and thank my sister for lending it to me. whew! Luckily she leant me the second one as well, so I'm set for a little while. And speaking with a Scottish accent. Does anyone else do that? Get so involved in a book you end up talking like the characters?

Someone at church asked me how I was doing, and I said "I'm here". Given the late nights, it was a bit touch-and-go when I hadn't even gotten up at 11:30am on Sunday morning. Good thing it was Fast Sunday--didn't have to worry about eating. Kinda the same sleeping-in problem on Monday, which is why I missed out on the Renaissance Festival. Oh well. I have a few more weeks before it disappears for the winter... They're going to take away my 'rennie membership', though, if I don't stop sleeping through the festival!

Tagged by three freinds on LJ...

A. List seven habits/quirks/facts about yourself.
B. Tag seven people to do the same.
C. Do not tag the person who tagged you or say that you tag "whoever wants to do it.

1)I like to watch Dr Who. Yes, even the one at 12:00 midnight on PBS.

2) I love being a 'fan'. Witness my Star Wars, Harry Potter, Firefly, and other fascinations. I'm not obsessed, I'm focused.

3) I love to dress up--Halloween is the only day I could get away with it before I discovered Renaissance Faires.

4)(this may be in the TMI category, be warned) Having been an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints all my life, and never married, yes, I am still a virgin. No, that's not a plea for someone to change my status.

5)I never served a mission for my church. It's amazing how many people think I have just because I not married (since I didn't marry, I must have served a mission? Oh brother).

6)I have a Master's degree in Astrophysics. I believe this is one of two reasons why I'm not married (see number 4 for the other reason--science and religion don't mix well in the minds of possible suitors).

7) I have a lot of dolls. Including several Star Wars 12-inch dolls, and several Barbie Princess dolls. My latest aquisition is a baby doll with a breathing mechanism in it. I love to hold my breathing doll. I know, I know, TMI.

As for who to tag... hmmm, I tagged three people on LJ, so here I'm going to tag Joni, Mendy, Kellie, and Cami (had to leave them all someone to tag!)

So Faire!

Went to MDRF on Saturday, and it was so fun! I actually overslept so I missed the first Fight School and Super Stupina, but I ran into my friends the Ravenwolves Clan almost immediately and we hung around together all day. They are the Best Family Faire-ever! (Those who came to my housewarming party got to meet all but Lady Ravenwolves and the oldest son)

We wandered around the grounds for the most part, stopping for quite a while to talk to Amras the Squirrel King and have some lunch. It was So Hot. Lots and lots of water to be drunk. Switched to Lemonade around 4:00pm or so, though, when my persperation started tasting a lot like the water I was drinking. However, it was so nice to hang with them and see so many of our faire friends.

There are some new shops at the festival this year. A Master Weaver has set up shop there, with clothing and capes and things. She names her patterns--Shady Grove, Cardinal, Peacock, and several more. You can guess what the colors are like. I'm defnintely getting some, and at least one skirt/top/vest combination that I could wear to church it's so nice. Another new place is a drum and flute place, where you can get a small drum to hang on your belt, or a timbre, or even a flute--a practice one if you prefer! They are simply beautiful! And I'm thinking I know what I might be picking up for Christmas gifts this year... at least for family... I am going to go so broke.

We saw four shows--far fewer than normal for me, but I did get to hang with my friends. We saw Slavya, a women's singing group from Bulgaria. They sang all in Bulgarian, and told us about the songs before singing. They didn't have any CD's, or I would have been sorely tempted.

After Slavya, we saw The Chess Game, which is in a different location this year. Normally it's played on the Jousting Feild, but this year they wanted to make it part of the King's story, so it made more sense for King Henry and Princess Anna to play on a stage rather than at the feild where no one can hear them. The fighters still got to fight for each square, though. Always good to see the fighters!

Between shows, we got recruited to sing for Princess Anna at her bridal shower. Unfortunately the Princess didn't show, but the song (to the tune of Row, row, row your boat) goes thusly:
Soon, soon, you'll be our queen, but Anna don't relax!
Chippty, choppety, chippety, choppety, hope you're spared the AX!!

Prior to Fight School 2: RELOADED we sat and listened to E! Muzeki. They were fabulous. They play gypsy music, and they are so talented! I am definitely getting one of their CD's--I couldn't on Saturday because I just had enough left to buy a Fight School T-Shirt! Yay! They were out of time, but the Fight School boys told them to play their last song--a rendition of Led Zepplin's Kashmere that has to be heard to be believed. And I don't even like Led Zepplin. 'Course, this meant that the Fight School boys got to play around backstage for us to giggle at. What was also neat was the belly dancers came out and danced while the band was playing (Christie? Christina? you must come!)

Fight school was great as always (I'm not prejudiced at all, am I?) Just a couple favorite phrases: "Batista!" "I don't care if it's hot, these people deserve a show!" Afterwards I did get my first t-shirt (only had enough $ left for one), and all four boys signed it. I even got two signed post cards! Not sure how that happened, I think one more was signed than actually needed, but now I have one to frame and one to put in my scrapbook forever and ever!

So fun! I'm going again on Labor Day and I'm seriously considering Celtic weekend--which is the 8th, not the 15th as I told one of my freinds.

Pictures of the weekend will be forthcoming. and hopefully sooner than last years (which I think are still not posted...)

TV Viewing Schedules

I mentioned my TV Viewing Schedule in my last post, and went as far to write it all down when I realized it really didn't have much to do with anything. But I didn't want to lose it, so here it is.

Last year, in Fall/Winter/Spring I used to watch:

Sunday night: Battlestar Galactica (really too violent for Sunday night, I would often tape it)
Monday night: LA family cop show on the Family Channel; Heroes
Tuesday Night: Gilmore Girls; Veronica Mars; Law & Order Criminal Intent; L&O SVU; Eureka (when it was on) (yes that is too many shows to watch in one night, I wasn't always successful, and my VCR was constantly full)
Wednesday Night: Lost; Medium
thursday Night: catch up on the ones I missed on Tuesday, sometimes "are you smarter than a fifth grader?", or a movie, then 'The Riches' in the spring, on FX (another family, not really a family show, though--Minnie Driver was the impetus for that one)
Friday Night: Stargate SG-1; Stargate Atlantis; Dr Who; Occaisionally Numbers
Saturday Night: more catch up or movie night

The new season hasn't been released yet, but since Gilmore Girls, Veronica Mars, and Stargate SG-1 have been cancelled, Lost and Medium don't start until January, as long as nothing really new or interesting shows up on the new schedule I might actually have time to read this year :D

My Summer viewing schedule is not nearly that bad:
Sunday Night: the 4400, the Dead Zone
Monday Night: starting to watch the Heroes repeats
Tuesday Night: Eureka
Wednesday Night: nada
Thursday Night: Who wants to be a Superhero?
Friday Night: Dr Who, sometimes Monk, Psych
Saturday Night: really late, Dr Who.

See, lots more time for movies and books :D

Spent last week writing a document that was due on Friday. Took up all my time at work. Evenings were fairly calm, I don't think I had to go anywhere except for Quiet Book Construction on Thursday. So see, you haven't missed anything.

Saturday was really fun--I got to help with our Primary activity. They had a Medieval theme, which meant I got to wear my garb. yay! I didn't get any pictures, sorry--I was busy helping the kids make their sheilds. They all did very, very well! and they had so much fun! We did run out of pink, which could have been expected given the number of princesses there. The remaining princesses were ok with yellow or green, though. One girl was so sweet, she made a sheild for her baby brother.

Afterwards I went home, returning to my 21st century shape (bodices really do change the shape of your body, when worn correctly), and watched "The Dish", a great little movie about the Australian Ground Station that was the only on in the Southern Hemisphere big enough to transfer video images from the moon to the Earth during the Apollo 11 moon landing. Yup, Neil spoke through Australia to Huston. Then I finished out Season 1 of The Magnificent Seven--a lovely little guns & cowboys series that was, alas!, too short. I think I did something after that, but in the evening I went shopping. I loved having that day all to myself.

Sunday was nice too, stayed in bed way to late reading 'Flyte', the second in the Septimus Heap series. (yes, I finally finished 'Eclipse') Went to church and got to hold baby William during the third hour. The poor sister who had him the second hour (I did offer!) got baby spit-up all over her. Yuck! After church was the Single Adult Potluck dinner, and the Why I Believe Fireside. Both went well, although it looked rather sad to the first sister who showed up at the dinner, me sitting in the room with no tables (I can't get the tables myself), looking rather forlorn. I did make it home in time to watch 'the 4400' and 'The Dead Zone', both of which are on my summer Viewing List (which is a lot shorter than my Fall/Winter/Spring Viewing List).

So far this week is looking a lot like last week--I have visiting teaching but not much else. Well, maybe a birthday party on Thursday, provided my VT is done.

From Jann's blog...

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 40 people with my name in the U.S.A.

The funny part is that there was one in Iowa City when I was going to school there...

Pay it Forward

found this on Mendy's blog, and could NOT resist! :D

I will send a handmade gift to the first three (3) people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. You may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days! The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog. (So, you must have a blog to participate.)

How fun! Now let's all pay it forward, give each other gifts just for the heckuvit, and comment away!

If you are one of the three, I'll contact you to get your mailing info (if I don't already have it.) If you're not one of the three, hurry and click over to the winners' blogs to see if you can make it!

One more about the book...

I know, I should really leave this alone. but I just CAN'T!! At least my sister's reading the infamous teenage vampire series, I would really love to know what she thinks. I leant her Twilight, then found out last night she had to run out and buy the next two :D

There may be spoilers here, but I think everyone that reads my blog also has read the book (I think I'm woefully behind)

I was considering some of the comments that were posted after my last Eclipse post (and no, I haven't finished the book nor gotten to *that* part yet), and it sounds like a lot of people think that the Edward/Bella relationship is the most perfect ideal one there could be--so very romantic. I'm going to disagree. I know I'm in the minority, but I think Jacob is much better for her. Edward is so busy taking care of her and trying to protect her--even from himself--that he doesn't seem to see her as a true person. Her ability to block him from her mind intrigues him, yes, and the smell of her blood intoxicates him, but is that love? Her complete collapse after he left in book 2 seems more like an obsession rather than love to me. I personally wouldn't want someone protecting me from life and from death.

On the other hand, Jacob protects her, tries to keep her from hurting herself, but allows her to be who she is. She's happy, really happy, not obsessed when she's with him. He tells her everything she needs to know to keep herself safe, and is there to help. He is much more empowering to her, allowing her to make her own decisions yet be there for her. Also, his world doesn't revolve around her--he has his own life and interests.

Maybe, just maybe, this is the author's point (keeping in mind that I haven't read the last book yet so I don't know if this is the end of a trilogy or the start of a series). She keeps Bella out of trouble, but will someday help her to see that Edward truly isn't good for her. Jacob, while possessing an inhuman part, is far more human, far more good. Or maybe Bella just likes the bad boys, the way so many women do.

Course, this is just my perspective. I couldn't see the love story in "The Time Traveler's Wife" either. But for me, if I were in Bella's situation, I would have to choose Jacob.

halflings and movies...

So what did I do last week? Dropped Bonnie off on Sunday, had FHE at the Francos and Single Adults on Monday, went to the Stake SA committee meeting on Tuesday, went to the Ward SA Committee meeting on Wednesday, finished HP 7 (second time) on Thursday, went to a movie (Hairspray) with my friend Jann on Friday, then caught up on all my missed summer tv shows (I'd actually watched most of them in real-time, so catching up wasn't hard to do). Normal, basically.

Saturday I overslept and went to RPG (role-playing game--Yes I do Dungeons and Dragons. It's helping me with my math) with my friends. My little halfling (11th level, thank you very much!) had a great time disabling all the traps the DM (Dungeon Master) had set up. He kept saying, "this is a tricky one," or "this one is trickier than the last one", and I would roll my die and get a 38 when I had to beat a 35. First try. Definitely had all the luck. The poor Paladin that was with us almost died three times because he kept rolling so badly :::shakes head::: But I had to leave rather quickly because I was supposed to go to a SA activity. My friends tried to dissuade me, "call in sick!", "don't go", "blow them off!" I had to tell them twice, "I have to go, I'm IN CHARGE." One other person showed up--not too surprising since we weren't able to advertise because the one person who was going to set it up (or at least find out the details) didn't, and we can't even be mad at her because she had an accident about a week or so ago (sigh). So we pulled it together, and like I said, one other person showed up. Bro Paul. We went to see Stardust (which was enjoyable, not as good as LotR, but also much better than such fare as "Time Bandits"). I really hope people don't start thinking I'm dating Bro Paul, though, because I'm not. We're just the only two responsible people in the entire Stake SA program. I hate my calling. Don't suggest I ask to be released, though, because there is literally no one else in the entire stake that can carry this, and it really must be done. It is important. I just wish I had help. And no, Bro Paul isn't much help, he just manages to show up half the time. Boy, I think this is turning bitter.

Sunday was great, though. Slept in, read New Moon (which I hadn't read yet, and needed to catch up to all my other friends), went to church taking my friend's daughters with me. That was a lot of fun. Got home and read some more. Managed to stop in time to watch the 4400 and the Dead Zone, but basically that was about it.

See, a nice normal weekend with no visitors and no jaunts to Virginia. Next weekend should be about the same. Except for the baby shower in Westminster.

Questions not to "Eclipse" the issue

Haven't finished reading the book yet, so am going on what I've heard and seen posted about it. Many of my LDS friends are really into this series about teenagers and vampires. Some of them are quite disappointed by the third instalment, others think it's just wonderful. The thing that seems to bother the disappointed ones the most is that the author is also LDS.

I read the review Joni posted (http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/12/books/review/Schillinger7-t.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&oref=slogin) and what I got out of it is that the author really doesn't follow LDS standards when she writes. So are we mad at her for not upholding the standards we know she has, or upset because of what she wrote? I think I'm putting this badly, but do we think that just because a person is LDS that we can expect certain things from them, that if we knew they were not LDS we wouldn't be surprised by? Would my friend have let her daughter read the book if the author had NOT been LDS? Everything else being the same, would it matter if the author was not LDS?

I've come across something like this before. A man I knew in California was a producer of theatrical productions--I was in two of them. But it seemed to me and my brother-in-law that he used his 'LDS-ness' to get ahead in his industry, producing productions that families would want to see, not necesarily for the greater good, but to get gain. Is this what Ms Meyer is doing? Or is she merely being a young adult author, albeit targeting the late-teen crowd? Was she pummelled by her editor into adding things that we consider 'inappropriate', but that the editor would make the book more marketable?

I think we need to not judge people for their religion. You know, expect certain things from an author/performer/artist because he or she is LDS/Catholic/Muslim/Buddhist. Like or dislike the work for what it is. If they hold up their standards respect them for it.

Discuss.

alas and alak!

I think I just like saying that.

It's been a while, but I have been very very busy. I'll try to keep this short, I really don't have a lot of time to write today, but I really feel I need to catch up somewhat.

Last Thursday I FINALLY got to talk to my friends about Harry Potter (book club, you know). It was great. I need to do a write up of my impressions for my email group, but given that I absolutely hate sitting down at my home computer (it is SO SLOW!!) I tend to do other things. Besides, I'm reading it again. Meant to read book 6 again first, but got caught up in other things.

Friday I got to work really early to help Bob out at TIMED, and then found that I had been volunteered to attend a couple meetings I hadn't planned on, and I needed to leave by 2:30 so I could meet up with my sister and take her oldest daughter off her hands. Well, I didn't get out until 3:00pm and with stopping for gas and whatever, I really didn't leave Laurel until 3:15 or so, but I did get to the park by about 5:30pm, traffic and all. Poor Beckie left her house at 2:00pm and didn't get to the park until about 5:00pm. There is a lot of construction along I-78, I think, which turned her 2-hour trip into a 3-hour trip. Mileage-wise the park we meet at is about the same for both of us. But we picked up Bonnie and got dinner at McDonalds, and then they were off, back to East Stroudsburg and Bonnie and I were off to my house. She talked the WHOLE WAY. She's 7. It was fun, though.

We got to my house and she claimed she wasn't going to bed until I did, so we worked on her quiet book and got ready for bed around 10:30pm, and I read more HP. Saturday morning I was having a dream, and thought a little animal was walking on my arm. Turns out Bonnie had gotten up and was patting me on my arm, "Wake up, Aunt Julia! We need to go to the zoo now!" Of course, it was 6:30 in the morning, so needless to say we did NOT go the zoo right then. We did, however, have breakfast and work more on her quiet book. She wanted to. She's a very crafty sort of kid. She doesn't like to watch TV much, she would rather be doing things. We managed to finish four pages for her book while she was here. She did a lot of the lettering and some of the cutting, while I did the tracing and sewing.

So at 9:30 am we did leave for the DC Zoo, picking up my friend Dina along the way. She had never been to a zoo before, she said (or if she had, it had been a really long time). We got there ok, but it was hot and there were a lot of people there. The zoo had spritzers on to cool the people down, and Bonnie really enjoyed running through them. She would get so soaked! We had parked at the bottom of the hill, so we walked all the way up and saw the Pandas. That baby panda is just so cute! I'll get my pictures up at some point so you can see too! We had lunch, then walked down and saw the elephants and monkeys. We'd seen the lions and tigers on the way up. The line for the invertebrates house was kinda long, so we skipped that. There wasn't a line on the way up, I guess we should have gone in then (but since I really don't care for snakes, I wasn't too disappointed). Dina wanted to see the sea lions, but the exhibit was closed--after we'd walked around for another 15 minutes trying to find it, Bonnie crying that she wanted to go home the whole time. So we did go home. We drove up by the temple, but while Bonnie wanted to see the temple, she didn't want to get out of the air-conditioned car. Dina took a picture, though.

We dropped Dina off, then went back to my house and worked on Bonnie's book some more. And she played with my dolls. I have a lot of dolls (I think I keep saying that). We went shopping after dinner--she needed some new sandals, and her mother said she'd pay me back if we could find some. Apparently she only had her tennies and her church shoes, and that was it. We were able to find some really cute pink shoes at Toys 'R' Us (they have a kids clothing section) that were even on sale. If I'd realized that before we got to the checkout counter, I may have bought her two pair, because that would still have been within her mother's spending limit, but it's ok. She loves her new shoes.

Sunday was good, too. Again with the waking up too early, but at least it was 7:30am this time. I'd stayed up late making another page for her quiet book, so I wasn't too happy about that and made her wait until 8:00am before I got out of bed. She had breakfast (fast sunday, you know), and we worked a little more on her book before she decided she really wanted to do something else. We had made mini-cupcakes the night before, so now we frosted them and got them ready to take to her family. Then I let her play my bowed psaltery for a bit. She had lunch, and then we went to church. Other than she wanted to sit on the very front row, it was really good. We brought both quiet books, hers and mine, and she was a busy--and quiet--little girl. After Sacrament Meeting I had a meeting with the Bishop (no, no callings extended (or released from)), but it was a good little meeting, and Bonnie was really good there too. We got home, changed clothes, and then Bonnie started loading up the car while I was finishing getting things ready. I tell you, this girl has initiative. The whole weekend I was constantly surprised at a lot of the things she would do, just because she had thought of it. We were able to get toys and books for her brother and sister, and she even got ready for church without me asking her to. I guess I'm not around enough to watch her grow up, so when I see her doing things like that it's a surprise. A pleasant surprise, so say the least. I'm sure her mom doesn't get to see a lot of that, though, given that Bonnie and her sister tend to fight a lot.

So we drove back to PA. One thing we did, and I'm still not sure it's legal, was have her sit in the front seat, in her car seat. She is 7, and my car couldn't sense her so the airbag thing stayed off, but it was fun to have her in the front seat with me. Maybe some of my friends with similar-aged kids can enlighten me?

We met up with Beckie and Malena just fine--they had another three-hour trip, though, to our two-hour trip. I felt really bad about that--we could have met farther up the road if I'd known. We won't be doing this again until next year, though, if they are still living in this part of the country.

Monday was FHE at the Francos with the Single Adults, and it was so fun. I really enjoy that family. I brought Sis Keats, Sis Clark, and Bro Paul with me, so it was nice. Tuesday was the SA Committee meeting, and tonight is the Ward SA Committee meeting. So yeah, no time to really slow down and breathe yet. Tomorrow night. And I think a movie might be in order Friday night (anyone want to come?)

I think the crazy part of the summer is over for me now, though. All the visits are completed, the dogs have been adopted, no SA conferences to attend (well, I've decided not to go to the one at the end of the month), and only MDRF to get ready for. :::sigh of relief!:::