Words in Abundance

What I Wish I Had Known When I Was 21

2011-08-02T13:19:00.000-10:00

For some reason I've been thinking a lot about turning 21 (ahem, Happy Birthday Dianna!).Today, I want to write a few things I wish I had known at that age:

#1: Life gets really, really good. Just put in your best faith, intentions, and actions. Trust me.

#2: But it will look far different than you imagine. When I was in college, I had visions my 28-year-old self living in Manhattan (or some mega urban center) with a big job, a bustling social life, and sophisticated dates to swanky events. Well, life is a little different than that. I live on an island, I've started a nice little freelance writing business, I'm a semester away from a master's degree, I have a close-knit circle of friends whom I adore, and dates often consist of dinner and a walk on the beach. Come to think of it, life is far better than I ever could have imagined at 21.

#3: Work (reasonably) hard. Play harder. I worked a lot through college and over-committed myself on almost every level, all of the time. If I had a re-do, I would have chosen one or two goals and worked toward those instead of running around crazy but without a real direction or purpose. Then, I would have spent my extra time reading, spending time with friends, and playing outside.

#4: Yes, keep exploring and traveling. I didn't know my insatiable desire to permanently live out of a suitcase would eventually transition into a preference for an occasional international trip (these days, every couple of years is fine), but those early travels shaped who I am, what I do, and where I live today.

#5: Date the good guys. And only the good guys.

#6: Trying to change a habit? Here's a good hack. Give a trusted friend a check for $50 to your favorite charity along with strict instructions to send it if you break your commitment.

#7: Pay attention to situation and make friends with reality. Sometimes we try to convince ourselves that something, theoretically, should be really good/work out, but in reality the situation isn't serving us. Move on from such situations gracefully and swiftly.

#8: Be nice, gentle, and make more time for people.

#9: Take out as little college debt as possible. For sure, don't take out loans for anything beyond tuition. There are a million ways (i.e., jobs) to pay for rent, food, and all other other lifestyle stuff that goes along with being a college student. Credit card debt is never justified.

#10: Next, learn about the laws of money and start saving at least 10% immediately. Read I Will Teach You to be Rich.

#11: Define a couple big goals that excite you. Work for those goals. Read for those goals. Study for those goals. Ask yourself if your actions and thoughts are setting you up to achieve those goals. Those goals eventually add up to your life legacy.

#12: Stop worrying. For heaven sake. It all works out. Enjoy friends, nature, reading, writing, traveling, etc. Get all of the good stuff you can out of life.

#13: Lose the drama. Many things felt so pressing and stressful when I was 21. Now, when I start feeling stressed out, I do one of two things: 1) work to get whatever it is done, accomplished, and out of the way, or 2) go to the beach and get myself out of my mind.

#14: Ditch the self-confidence issues.

Dear 21-year-old self:

Guys like you, girls want to be your friend, your body looks really good the better you eat, and you will be successful.

Holy. Cow. Major difference.

I wish I ditched ideas, people, untruths, and habits that weren't serving me, sooner. I get better and better at this as I get older, and it becomes simpler and quicker with practice.

#15: Read all of the Scriptures, The Alchemist, and A Million Miles in a Thousand Years. Journal the stuff that pops out and apply those lessons. Today is a good time to start reading these books.

#16: Find out who you are. Like, really. Pray and ask God to teach you this. Then act, speak, dress, and do accordingly.

#17: And this stuff about guys.

Be beautiful, be endearing, be sweet, be smart, be really good, be true, be loyal, be happy, be honest (speak your truth), be wise in choosing your company, and be willing to set wildly fun and interesting goals and go after them. Trust. During hard times, remember that Sunday will come. Start making a really good story of your life. In fact, make it a masterpiece.

xoxo,

T

Sunday Excerpts: The Divine Right of Capital

2010-03-28T03:00:00.000-10:00

The Divine Right of Capital: Dethroning the Corporate Aristocracy, by Marjorie Kelly (2001).

"The notion of ice melting is something is something I've had on my mind lately. I've been chipping a good deal of it on my sidewalks these days, as penance for my lazy habits as a Minnesota homeowner. But there's a secret ice teaches: that the seemingly impenetrable isn't. The trick is to hit on a seam--hit it just right--and witness the miracle of an entire chunk breaking away. Attack under the exposed edge, and another chunk can be loosed effortlessly. Before long the unyielding has, in fact, yielded. What seems impenetrable isn't. This is a useful maxim for tackling the topic of corporate governance." (51).

Sunday Excerpts: Three Cups of Tea

2010-03-21T03:00:00.001-10:00

"'If you want to thrive in Baltistan, you must respect our ways,' Haji Ali said blowing on his bowl. 'The first time you share tea with a Balti you are a stranger. The second time you take tea, you are an honored guest. The third time you share a cup of tea, you become family, and for our family, we are prepared to do anything, even die,' he said, laying his hand warmly on Mortenson's own. 'Doctor Greg, you must make time to share three cups of tea. We may be uneducated. But we are not stupid. We have lived and survived here for a long time.'

"'That day, Haji Ali taught me the most important lesson I've ever learned in my life', Mortenson says. 'We Americans think you have to accomplish everything quickly. We're the country of thirty-minute power lunches and two-minute football drills. Our leaders thought their 'shock and awe' campaign could end the war in Iraq before it even started. Haji Ali taught me to share three cups of tea, to slow down and make building relationships as important as building projects. He taught me that I had to learn from the people I work with more than I could ever hope to teach them'" (page 150).

Chelsea, you're right. You almost cannot help but cheer him on, out loud, as you're reading. Amazing.

I walk by this storefront daily...

2010-03-18T03:00:00.000-10:00

Something about it seems so...Puerto Rican, maybe?...and makes me smile.

Thanks Rascall Flatts...

2010-03-14T03:00:00.000-10:00

... for putting it so well.

Employed.

2010-03-11T10:41:00.000-10:00

Forgot to mention this awhile ago. Employed. Alan Wong's.

There's just something about the huge focus on sustainability, local farmers, and oooooo the Macademia Nut-Coconut Crusted Lamb Chops. And those marinated Hamakua Springs Farms tomatoes. Divine. Divine.

25 Things I hate About Facebook Video

2010-02-28T04:00:00.000-10:00

In my constant efforts to "Get With The Program" (I've turned this into an actual quarterly event for myself, where I catch up on all email, make a few token visits to Facebook, contemplate setting up a Twitter account so I can keep in touch better by "tweeting" with people, and even think about getting addicted to a weekly television program...Lost, anyone?), I decided to peruse YouTube for what's "hot" and "now" and "current".

I came across this really great video. Which I agree with completely. And will use it to justify my instincts that being soooo connected to sooooo many people is somewhat unnatural. Though Facebook is a well designed tool for "keeping up", it's actually very stressful for me to log on and realize I have a couple hundred Facebook friends that I could keep up with. People, I love you all! But where do I start? And then I think if you only have time to "poke" someone, perhaps it's an indication that it's actually time to readjust life priorities. That said, despite Julian's humorous and excellent points, I will keep my Facebook account. But hold off on Twitter.

Heard: Dr. Laura

2010-02-21T04:00:00.000-10:00

"Desperation doesn't wait around for something healthy," Dr. Laura.

The Ladies Are Coming!

2010-02-17T06:00:00.000-10:00

Mom and Trish arrive today from the mainland. I am soooo excited!

Pics from Tricia's Homecoming

2010-02-16T11:43:00.000-10:00

Tricia's Homecoming Pics

Mom, Me, and Dave waiting...

Mom and I waiting...

Mom and Trish

Dave and Trish

Awww...sibling hug...(why do I look so short here?)

Going to get luggage...

Dad was there too, but being the photographer. Such a great day!

Valentine's Weekend

2010-02-15T13:07:00.000-10:00

Valentine's Day this year included these (pardon the cell phone picture, my camera is temporarily out of commission):

And these:

Yes, v-day this year is one for the books. I adored it!

Yesterday at church we were encouraged to promote world peace by kissing our special someone more often (or something like that). Besides that being my kind of diplomacy, mama always taught me to apply what I learn at church. winks.

Happy Valentine's Day Y'all!

2010-02-13T16:00:00.000-10:00

Tricia's Coming Home!!!

2010-02-03T10:21:00.000-10:00

I'm on my way home for a couple days. Tomorrow, Tricia, my sister and best friend in the whole world, arrives home from her mission in Kirtland, Ohio, where's she's been for 19-ish months. Just a few weeks ago David returned home from his mission in Argentina (see picture above), and it was an awesome event. Finally, we'll have the whole crew again (if not home exactly, at least accessible. Tom will likely join us via phone as his studies keep him up North). Conversations on the couch. Endless laughter. Maybe Mom's cookies? Or Apple Crisp? Words cannot express, but something like: joy, joy, joy.

The Views from Diamond Head

2010-02-01T09:00:00.000-10:00

One fine day last week, Brian invited me to go hiking...

First, we went up Diamond Head--named as such for early sailors who mistook calcite crystal findings for the real thing--a nice jaunt, where you trek up a lot of stairs. Rewards at the top include a crisp breeze and million dollar views.

Like this one.

And this one.

Finishing at Diamond Head, we hightailed it over to Manoa Falls. Swung on tree branches (I like the photo above...it really accentuates my long arms...that's hot on a girl, ya?), shared travel lists (I want to go to Kyrgyzstan too!), entered the water despite the do-not-enter signs (yep, yep, real rebels), and discussed childhood playground dynamics and the true meaning of boys pulling girls' hair. All in all, two hikes and great afternoon.

** Side note: A couple days later Brian and I babysat a child together. Okay, so she's adorable and it was a good experience. Still, I can only give major kudos to a man willing to take on the world of 7-month old babies. In fact, he seemed to have a knack for the whole thing (i.e., putting baby Addie in a stroller to walk her to sleep at bedtime when she was a wee bit fussy for her mama). That has got to bode well for his future parenting potential. As for me, I have a feeling that, one day, I'll be very grateful for books like those What to Expect types. Undoubtedly, they will save my life.

A Letter From Tricia

2010-01-31T04:00:00.001-10:00

Tricia, who gets home from her mission for our church on February 4th (!!) (and I am stoked to be flying in a couple hours before so that can be there with my family when she walks off that plane), wrote this about a recent teaching experience. {} are mine.

So, last week we had a typical appointment with Skip {who is in his 80s}. Ted {who is also in his 80s and will sometimes join the sisters to help them teach} usually shows up early, so he can socialize, and was already there when we pulled up. We go in and sit down. I notice that Skip looks a little tired so I ask, “Skip why do you look so tired?”

Skip: “Well, I was tested for cancer yesterday.”
Us: “CANCER!! What kind!!?”
Skip: “Prostrate. I feel a little worn out.”
Ted: “They tested your... uhh?”
Skip: “ Yup.”
Ted: “Did they use the finger?
*GASP. USE THE FINGER???? Both me and Sister Munford freeze and avert our eyes to the floor.
Skip: “No, no, they just took it and took a bunch of snipetts out with a gun thingy."
* “IT???” GUN THINGY???
Ted: “ When they checked me they used the good old fashioned way, the finger”
*STOP TALKING ABOUT THE FINGER ALREADY!!!
I glance at Sister Munford and I start to laugh a little bit.
Skip: “Yup, took about 10 samples…”
Ted: “ Boy, that’s really a bummer, I’d be worn out too it somebody did that to me!”
The laughing is contagious and we all start laughing pretty hard. Irene {Skip's g/f} in her infinite wisdom pipes up and says, “ Now boys, watch your language.!”

It was just really funny. I couldn’t believe it. Oh, the joys, the joys!

Love This Thought From Angela

2010-01-30T04:00:00.000-10:00

I greatly enjoyed Angela's post about grabbing hold of the reins. Well said.

Horseback Riding on the North Shore

2010-01-28T09:45:00.000-10:00

A couple Saturdays ago I went horseback riding up on the North Shore with my friend Ross (we actually met on a ride he guided in Montana last summer). I don't have pictures of the actual horseback ride (though it was a blast, and thanks again Ross!), but I do have other noteworthy images to share from my experience on the ranch.

This is El Torro, the ranch truck. The floorboards are rusted out and you can see the ground as you drive. Kind of like those boats with glass floors so you can see the fish.

I love this goat!! I'm looking pretty windswept after horseback riding and cruising in El Torro.

This adorable domesticated boar is named Luna. She loves her belly rubbed.

Ross

This one's actually from New Year's Eve, but I decided to throw it in anyway. We're standing in front of this fruit/smoothie stand in Waikiki where you can get the most divine fresh pineapple/coconut juice smoothies. Mmmmm...clearly I have a craving for one as I write this.

Sunday Excerpts: A Long Way Gone

2010-01-24T07:06:00.000-10:00

From: A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier, by Ishmael Beah

"My new family laughed...I only smiled and was very quiet that night, as I was to be for a while more. But gradually I adjusted to being around people who were happy all the time" (pg. 182).

Dianna & Tara Road Trip: Glacier, Moscow, Seattle, and Oregon

2010-01-20T04:00:00.000-10:00

Dianna and I took a road trip last October. Here's the (delayed) photo-log.

Welcome to Glacier!

Dianna and I at Lake McDonald in Glacier.

Brother Tom in Moscow (we tried to get him to smile...).

Dianna wanted to take a pic of Hanne and I holding the Ethiopian restaurant's menu. We ate here our first night in Seattle.

Tara, Hanne, Dianna at Pike Market

Dianna @ University of Washington

Halloween night with Nick, Hanne, Dianna, and Tara

We had Vietnamese our last night in Seattle. Dianna loves taking pictures us holding exotic menus. ;)

Cranky Sue's, in Cannon Beach, Ore., makes some seriously amazing chowder!
(And she has a gluten-free menu! Major kudos!)

Pretty, pretty Astoria

And finally, home.

Kindle II, you've kindled my love!

2010-01-13T04:00:00.001-10:00

Amazon's Kindle II has seriously kindled my love. I received him beautifully packaged in a UPS box on December 7th, 2009. Since then, we have rarely parted (basically only for events involving water such as washing the dishes, showering, scuba diving, etc.).

Though I was never excited enough to save and scrimp for an iPod or iPhone, I spent all of last summer (well, actually ever since I saw Laureen's Kindle in action) plotting my future ownership of this little electronic reading devise. More to come soon on the specific character attributes that caused my love and devotion. In the meantime, suffice it to say that I highly recommend the Kindle II and consider it one of the best purchases I have made.

A Fine Idea

2010-01-10T12:05:00.000-10:00

My old friend Andrew Burton, from Salt Lake City, called me randomly two days ago from Beruit (!!). He spent the last few months in Damascus, is currently dog-sitting for a friend there in Lebannon, and will return back to Syria when he has finished that gig.

I, literally, had to walk out on the lanai and stare at the exotic trees and birds surrounding me, to remind myself that I'm in my paradise, as he shared about the smells, sights, sounds, and gorgeous people, in places my soul longs to experience.

That's not actually the point of this post (because, truthfully, I am in just the right place right now and will visit those other places too), but rather that he helped me scheme up my next business venture. Which is this: training dolphins (not new) as alternative transportation sources (new). And they would respond to sonar whistles, which saves on parking headaches.

The best part is--and this was Andrew's genuis--I could hire my Salt Lake girls (my old roomies--Mia, Laureen, Casandra, Rosa), Trish, and Mom (I miss these women!) to become dolphin trainers and move out here with me!

Clever, ya?

Sunday Excerpts: The Future of Western War a lecture by Victor Davis Hanson

2010-01-10T04:00:00.000-10:00

This, from the last paragraph of a Victor Davis Hanson lecture printed in the November 2009 issue of Imprimis , is something to think about:

"And I will end with this disturbing thought: We who created the Western way of war are very reluctant to resort to it due to post-modern cynacism, while those who didn't create it are very eager to apply it due to pre-modern zealotry. And that's a very lethal combination" (pg. 5).

Grad School Starts in 19 Days...

2010-01-06T04:00:00.000-10:00

In the meantime, I'm just getting settled on the island...

Tomorrow, I fly here:

2009-12-30T08:41:00.000-10:00

Merry Christmas & David Comes Home from Argentina!

2009-12-21T08:05:00.000-10:00

Merry Christmas dear readers (aka my seven friends and family members that keep up with this blog), may you have a beautiful one!

Three years ago tomorrow I returned home from Neuquen, Argentina, where I spent 18-months as a volunteer missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It was, by far, the most awesome learning, growing, and becoming more Christ-like experience of my life to date. I am so grateful for it.

Now my little brother will share December 22 with me. He arrives home after a two-year mission in Cordoba, Argentina. I speak for the whole family; we can hardly wait for him to walk off that plane tomorrow. Huge bear hugs will ensue. Welcome home Davey!

Salt Lake & Rupert Trip, December 2009

2009-12-18T07:27:00.000-10:00

Salt Lake City/ Rupert Trip, December 09:

*Bay Leaf (New to downtown SLC and super yummy! Comfort food, drinks out of a Mason Jar)

*Cherry & Xavier & Hunsaker Clan (this is the cutest baby! And thanks Cher-bear for the education on how almost-three-month-olds work, how to hold them, the fantastic world of modern cloth diapers, etc. Invaluable for my future!)

*Dancing with Derek at a beautiful wedding (what trip is complete without dancing with Derek?)

*Flannel wool jackets, cowgirl boots, and big wool sweaters. Showing off my Idaho roots. ;)

*Friends, friends, friends

*K-Rico (Peruvian, new, good!)

*Market Street Grill

*Mormon Tabernacle Sunday Morning Concert with Natalie Cole (Thanks Jake L. for tickets! Thanks Jake R. for going with!)

*Potluck

*Reunions

*Reunitings with long losts

*Rosa, Mia, Nate, Laureen, Chel-bell, Derek, Shanners, Jake L, Jake R. Jen & Josh, Kris, Dawn, Chris, Amanda, etc.

*Small Idaho towns (everyone at the gas station knows how to get to everyone else's house, I love that!)

*Spoon Me! (Twice; once for breakfast...Pomegranates and Oreos is where it's at!)

*Temple Square lights that I actually only saw from a distance this time, but still beautiful.

*The Santa Clause House! (Dozens and dozens of Santas with hundreds of lights in one averaged sized yard up in the Avenues…ohh this house makes me so happy!)

I wish I could have visited more...
Hasta la proxima my dear little mountain city!

p.s. These were the only two times I took pictures. Argh! Gotta remember to pull out that camera!

Hawai'i Plane Ticket: New Year's Eve

2009-12-16T08:27:00.000-10:00

Back in April I thought it may be love at first sight. Beautiful place. Great program. Awesome people. Really awesome people.

Since April: Summer. Yellowstone. Fall. Travel. Home. Home. Home.

And on December 31st, back to the island. New Year. New chapter. New place. Graduate school. Ease of travel access to the other Pacific Rim countries. I am ready.

And how, you might ask, will I ring in the New Year in Honolulu (since I do get in promptly at 3pm)? Not totally sure. But taking Kris' advice, I just might head to the beach.

Welcome (Back) to West Yellowstone

2009-06-17T03:40:00.000-10:00

I used to think I would grow out of this place. For some inexplicable reason I'm ridiculously happy to return this year. Maybe I grew into it?

Lake Hebgen

Trying to locate a trail head...

Alicia and I in the park

As Old Faithful prepares to do her thing...

Upper Falls

We share the road with these guys around here...

Picking up Dianna from the airport...

Life Transitions: Investigating Hawai'i

2009-06-13T10:59:00.000-10:00

Hawai'i: Is a go. My grad program rocks. The sun is a boon for my soul. The awesome people do awesome things.

(Plan: Buy a bike ASAP upon arrival to the islands.)

(This is the car I drove around for my rad house/car swap.)

(I pine for a bamboo driveway like this one above.)

Life Transitions: Final Days in SLC

2009-06-13T10:58:00.000-10:00

Jake

Laureen and Mia

Co-workers Dave and Dawn

Finishing projects at work...

Nichole, Kris (my awesome boss), Robin, Dawn

At dinner with the gang

Talena, Me, Casandra, Becky

Derek and I

Sterling

Life Plans

2009-04-14T18:17:00.000-10:00

Okay world. After careful consideration and contemplation, here's the plan as of right now:

Step #1: Fly to Honolulu next week for site visit at Hawai'i Pacific University to make sure it's "the one".
Step #2: Summer in Montana.
Step #3: Assuming next weeks site visit is just great, move to Ohua to begin Masters in Sustainable Development.

Any thoughts? :)

How a Nap Should Be

2009-04-08T02:00:00.000-10:00

Pre-nap:

Post-nap:

Sweet slumber...

Just Booked

2009-04-04T16:47:00.000-10:00

Just booked plane tickets to Honolulu for late April. My first ever for the islands, though I have a feeling these may just be the first of many. More explanation to come...

Minimalism: It Feels Good

2009-04-03T02:00:00.000-10:00

Something about minimalism draws me in and demands my respect and attention. I wish I had taken a picture a couple weeks ago of the eight boxes of clothes and miscellaneous items that I cleared out of my life. We basically went from something like this:

To something like this:

Though I downsize every six months or so, I seem to accumulate too much in the interim. This time I'm sticking to simplicity, and, subsequently, mental serenity. Some people need a few extra things to pad their fears of not having enough. Others need their all of their possessions to fit in a backpack if necessary. And many are somewhere in between.

Bottom line: For me, less is more.

Yum: Smoothie

2009-04-01T02:00:00.000-10:00

I just blended together: a hearty cup of coconut milk, a wee bit of soy milk, a perfectly ripe banana, a scoop of raw almond butter, a few frozen blueberries, and some calcium.

Yum.

Lazy Sundays

2009-03-30T10:00:00.001-10:00

"I did nothing yesterday, and it was everything I thought it could be!"

--Richard, my co-worker

Depression Cooking

2009-03-25T02:00:00.000-10:00

A must see. Clara is 93-years-old and becoming wildly popular on YouTube for her Depression Cooking series. I adore this woman.

Happy Birthday Shan!

2009-03-22T04:44:00.000-10:00

Happy 25th dear friend!

Things that make you feel in love...

2009-03-18T02:00:00.000-10:00

Does the prospect of moving make anyone else feel giddy? As in, like, the in-love kind of giddy? As in, you suddenly have all of the patient and loving attention in the world to devote to anyone who wants even the smallest millisecond of your time kind of giddy? As in, for whatever reason your voice seems more sultry and your eyes look softer kind of giddy? You know what I mean? Actually, I'm thinking of some of my friends that read this blog. You totally know what I mean.

Thomas Friedman Visits My Mountain City

2009-03-10T12:08:00.001-10:00

Anyone in the dark about Thomas Friedman should to catch up. He's the foreign affairs columnist for the New York Times, a Pulitzer Prize laureate, and writes books like The Lexus and the Olive Tree, and Hot, Flat and Crowded.

This week Mr. Friedman payed a visit to my little mountain city, issuing a call for a more responsible and involved world citizenry. He reminded us that interest groups and political parties get out of hand without public (meaning you and I) involvement, and encouraged citizens to "change their leaders and not their light bulbs" to affect true change in policy that will lead us into and through the next big and necessary global movement--sustainable energy technology (ET). This is a movement, he argues, that will not only stimulate the global economy for generations to come, but also heal our planet and encourage our people toward lifestyles that are satisfying and sustainable.

Agreed. (Did I mention I applied for my Masters in Sustainable Development? I should have grad announcements in a couple of weeks.) As this economic recession is proving, our lavish indulgences, funded by credit cards and high interest loans, have now come back to bite us in the you-know-where. I especially loved his last column in the NYT, which contains keen observations about vicious consumer cycles that have reduced the lives of many to production and consumption. He suggests that we "grow by creating flows rather than plundering more stocks." That sounds good to me. Even better, it sounds healthy.

Bottom line: To quote a quote that Mr. Friedman used, "You have exactly enough time. Starting now." Let us not squander it.

Cucumbers

2009-03-04T03:00:00.000-10:00

I can't ever figure out what to do with the blasted things. I like them enough to buy them but obviously dislike enough to let the majority go to waste. Perhaps if someone made me little cucumber sandwiches every day I would eat them more, because I do like cucumber sandwiches but just never find the motivation to prepare them. Ideas?

The GRE Results

2009-02-26T16:55:00.001-10:00

Ooooo, sorry for the delay. I've been basking in post-test indulgences for the past few days. Such as:

The Banff Mountain Film Festival

Mom: What are you doing tonight?
Me: Going to Banff.
Mom: Canada??
Me: No Mom, the film festival that you also went to a couple weeks ago?
Mom: Banff is a city in Canada dear. The "Banff Film Festival" would be more explanatory.

Point taken. ;)

The Vienna Boys Choir

Wow these kids are amazing! I passed up the opportunity a few years ago to see them in a more authentic location, and have been kicking myself ever since. Seeing them in Utah almost made up for it.

And now, without further ado. May I announce that the GRE is not so bad. With a few proven techniques for controlling panic during the quantitative section, you can actually do pretty decently. Post-test I had to come to terms with a few falterings on the verbal section that seemed so silly to miss. Nothing a good nights sleep (or two) and good conversations over frozen yogurt with friends couldn't cure. In the end, I raised my math score by 170 points, which is precisely what I went in there to do.

Cheers!

And grad school decisions in less than a month.....

I Am Testing Right Now

2009-02-20T15:30:00.000-10:00

So I wrote this at 1:30pm after eight, yes 8, wonderful hours of slumber, slowly waking up, reading, a quick little yoga routine, warming up the mind for awhile (no cramming, I promise, just a few math problems to get the brain rolling), a nice long run, a smoothie from Jamba juice and some inari from Wild Oats (I prefer to remember it as Wild Oats instead of its new, and less preferable, name of Whole Foods). I'll take a short nap, shower, and drive up to the testing center. Today is definitley not as painful as I imagined it might be. Actually, it's been lovely!

I'm revved and ready to go. In three hours (aka, when you, my kind readers, see this) I will be right about in the middle of the verbal section.

Thanks for your comments guys! Crystal, thanks for the memory of Argentina. I had totally forgot about that!

GRE Prep, Post V: It's Here!

2009-02-20T03:00:00.000-10:00

I go in at 4:30 pm. Somehow I feel like my future depends on this.

Heh. Heh.

What a silly notion. Especially because I have a major back up plan.

If my scores are not fabulous, I will simply call up all the faculty I can and beg entrance. I hear that works every time.

Seriously though, it's in Fate's hands.

Not worried.

Well, kind of worried. But it's not the end of the world.

Right??

It's really not the end of the world, right????

GRE Prep, Post IV: It's Tomorrow

2009-02-19T04:30:00.000-10:00

I swear, who came up with this concept of standardized testing....??

Any last minute advice??

GRE Prep, Post III: How I Spent Valentine's Day

2009-02-18T04:17:00.000-10:00

This weekend I was in Idaho Falls for Grandma Gracie's funeral (sadness.....that woman was my teacher of all things saucy and feisty....more on that soon).

On Valentine's Day I romanticized about how my life would be if I were studying at my first choice school...and studying like crazy for the GRE so I can do so....

Dad took Mom and I out for a Valentine's ice cream treat. I had piña colada with brownies soy ice cream. Wow! Heaven....

GRE Prep, Post II: I'm taking the thing on Friday!

2009-02-16T04:12:00.000-10:00

The past three weeks:

AM: Study for GRE a bit before work.
AM-PM: Work.
PM: More GRE study time...

Taking the blasted thing: This Friday! (Eek! Yay!)

Sunday Excerpts: Ines of My Soul, Part II

2009-02-15T03:00:00.000-10:00

From Ines of My Soul, by Isabel Allende:

"How could I in less than a minute go from the sadness of having been abandoned to the joy of feeling loved? At that time I must have been very fickle. I swore at that instant that I would be faithful to Rodrigo till the day he died, and not only have I fulfilled that oath to the letter, I have loved him for thirty years, more every day. It was so easy to do; Rodrigo was always an admirable man, everyone agreed about that, but the best men can have serious defects that are revealed only in intimacy. That was not true with that distinguished hildago, that soldier, friend, and husband. He never tried to make me forget Pedro de Valdivia, whom he respected and loved; he even helped me assure that an ungrateful Chile did not forget,but remembered him as he deserved. Rodrigo did, however, set out to make me love him, and he successed in that" (256).

Retraction: GRE NOT Tomorrow

2009-02-14T04:41:00.000-10:00

Sorry gang. For those who just saw the GRE post: don't worry. I'm not taking it tomorrow, but rather next Friday. I had made that post awhile ago in nervous anticipation of the silly thing. And have since rescheduled (it was on the wrong day anyway, who takes the GRE on a Sunday?? Seriously....)....

My Top Five Character Strengths

2009-02-11T03:00:00.000-10:00

I did this great rather lengthy, but through, test to discover my greatest strengths. There's something like 240 questions to rank 24 character qualities.

My strongest character strengths:

1) Spirituality, sense of purpose and faith
2) Bravery and valor
3) Capacity to love and be loved
4) Love of learning
5) Creativity, ingenuity and originality

Hopefully those balance out my bottom ranked quality:
24) Caution, prudence and discretion

These feel pretty true. Was anyone surprised by theirs?

Sunday Excerpts: Ines of My Soul

2009-02-08T03:00:00.000-10:00

From Ines of My Soul, by Isabel Allende:

"The next instant I was struck by something like a dagger in my breast; it took my breath away and made me sway on my feet...Blood rushed to my head, my knees buckled, and everything went dark. I managed to fall into a chair; had I not, I would have crumpled to the ground...I blamed that brief faint on anger and the heat, never suspecting that my heart had broken, and I would have to live thirty years more with the damage" (pg. 253).

And while we're on the topic...Some Guys Just Have Bad Luck Names

2009-02-06T03:00:00.001-10:00

Fine. Since we're already talking about hot Verizon men.

So, there is one guy name that is jinxed for me. For the purpose of this post, we'll just say Phillip. And another guy name, the name of a recent ex-boyfriend, that seems to pop up with remarkable frequency lately. We'll say Harvey.

I walked into Verizon and was promptley attended by a very attractive man named, you guessed it, Phillip. "Can I help you with something?" he asks. Why yes you can, I tell him.

We walk over to the counter. He starts setting up my new phone. Shows me some cool features that maybe I would like to know about. Asks how my day is. Where I am from. Etc. I resisted his ridiculous charm, reminding myself that Phillips and I just don't mix for the long romantic haul. Why play with fire? For the first time in my flirting experience I felt hesitant, reserved, resistant... superstitious even. And so, at least momentarily, I turned it all off, determined not to be attracted to him or his name. Phillip. Puh!

That is, until two of two of his co-workers, both named Harvey, started razing him for his (ultra sexy) new glasses that, apparently, he had just bought. They thought he looked ultra nerdy. Finally, I broke and threw caution to the wind. Nooo honey, I told him much to his delight, ultra sexy.

And somehow, that started it. It was another three-guy-one-girl Verizon flirt fest (remember I've gone there a lot lately). Delicious banter. Generous winking. Uninhibited laughter. Intellectual chemistry. Phermone combatibility. Now that is the stuff that makes up excellent customer service.

Just when I thought the name was going to be redeemed--that perhaps there ARE Phillips in the world who I could potentially be with--one of the other Verizon guys somehow made a little joke about his own and Phillip's sexual orientation. A couple of sly grins and Phillip's good natured shrugging of the shoulders confirmed the fact. Though the boy can flirt up a storm, that's about all he cares to do with those of my sex. I should have figured as much. It was too good to be true and I knew it from the moment I walked in the door and checked out first his ring finger (nothing) and then his nametag. And so, I remain as before, sure that the Phillips and Taras of world were just not meant to be.

Hot Verizon Guys...

2009-02-03T03:00:00.000-10:00

Are Verizon guys in other states also kind of fashionable and extremely HOT? I've lost, water logged, and otherwise damaged beyond repair four phones in the last few months. That's not the point. The point is I have to go to Verizon an awful lot lately. And let's just say, I'm getting less and less upset about the half-an-hour visits. But seriously is this just where I live?

Sunday Excerpts: NYT on Being Single...This is GREAT!

2009-02-01T03:00:00.000-10:00

From a piece entitled "Is Urban Loneliness a Myth?" in the New York Times:

"When the New Yorkers I know feel lonely—single women especially—it’s a product, too, of feeling asynchronous with their cohort. ...[T]here’s a time in the lives of young professionals when they retreat deep into their silos, trying to make partner, get tenure, write their books, complete their residencies, or whatever it is that they’re hoping to do. If they’re lucky, they’re married, which helps sustain them through the work isolation. Then the next stage comes when they’re working hard in their newly minted careers (as partners, tenured professors, authors, doctors, or whatever it is they’re doing). And again, they’re fairly cut off socially, but they’re buoyed, one hopes, by the presence of a family at home. But if someone is out of step with this pattern—not partnered off, say, while still working really hard—New York can be a challenging place."

Happy Belated Chinese New Year!

2009-01-30T03:00:00.000-10:00

Ummm, so Happy (belated) Chinese New Year! It's the year of the Ox and GalaDarling has posted a tantalizing Chinese horoscope guide for this year. I was born in the year of the Pig and all I've got to say is bring on the love baby! (and p.s. I decided to be a guinea pig, as they are really delightful little creatures, don't you think?)

Pig 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995

This is a bright year full of wonder, with lots of love & career luck. Pigs in relationships might get married or pregnant, while single female pigs are encouraged to travel to far-flung lands to find the love of their life! Long-term relationships are in the cards for pig ladies. The stars for clear thinking are shining brightly this year, which is great news for pigs whose work is intellectual or creative. It is also likely that you will gain a lot of recognition for the work you’ve done. This year, pigs should follow their instincts but avoid taking unnecessary risks. Mood swings, frustration & difficulty communicating may affect you but overall, 2009 will be a fantastic year.

I'm Borrowing Some New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-28T03:00:00.000-10:00

I mean, it's kind of a big deal to commit yourself to a whole year of goals and habit changes, etc. You know? So like a gradually built romance, I let it simmer and took my sweet time (yes, I know it's more than the middle of January; it doesn't matter). Though this isn't the complete list, goals for 2009 include:

Make time daily to read deeply (40+ books this year) and write prolifically
Decide which graduate school I'll grace with my presence (pllllleeeeaaase be the one to where I'm sending all of my desperate telepathic messages to please accept me...with funding...please!)..... :)
Move as needed (depending on above)...... :)
Vivacious work
Swift action on inspiration
Pursue the adventure
Be fair and polite
Be ridiculously Tara

And I'm stealing these luscious resolutions from an artist blog I sometimes read by the Spiritual Cowgirl. My goodness, I love it when love drools.

To dance the way a star explodes
To soak in Love's drool
To give without abandoning myself
To speak my truth, even when it feels like a lie
To allow abundance to attack my life
To play, play, play, play, play, play, play, play, play, play
To let Love show me what I'm truly made of...again and again and again

Anyone else? New Year's goals?

I am addicted...

2009-01-23T09:44:00.000-10:00

I'm addicted to sugar. Again. Crud. I can't stop snitching cookies or cake or anything that looks butter and sweetener laden. It started with just a nibble then to a spoonful and now to "just" half (make sure it's the mondo portion size though, please. And yes, I have gluten problems, but just this once I'm sure it will be fine...). Nasty little habit.

(Mom, don't worry. I promise to kick it. Hopefully for the last time.)

I sense a sugar fast coming on and my body is already begging mercy. ("No, no! We'll start excercising! Ya, that's it! We'll run three miles every day. Every day! If we can just have the other half of that bakery delicious double chocolate chip cookie. Mmm. Succulent, luscious, heavenly cookies....).

Any advice out there? Anyone??

One night (last night) at Sundance...

2009-01-21T10:00:00.000-10:00

Do I have a story for y'all.

Involving: Mia and I going to Park City last night, inauguration parties, Mia’s car being towed, calling the tow place repeatedly with no answer, deciding to make getting back home into a giant game, starting a dance revolution at a club, becoming the favorite girls of a band from California, receiving all kinds of invitations to cabins and parties, meeting a really nice guy who had to stock beer until really early in the morning but then offered us a ride back home, crawling into bed around 3, waking up around 5.

Needless to say, I'm tired this morning.

Inauguration & Have You Seen an Angel?

2009-01-20T08:38:00.000-10:00

The Inaugural Ceremony this morning: chills, chills, chills.

Welcome to the White House President and Mrs. Obama.

AND

The nicest Veteran walked into my office just now, looking for another VA office. We chit chatted and I gave him directions. On his way out he asked me, "Have you seen an angel today?" I replied that I had, referring to him because, really, he was a doll. He shook his head, indicating that I answered wrong and asked the exact same question again. That time I responded "no". So he says, "Well young lady, you just go look in the mirror then." Awwwwww.....

Maybe he could write a little reference letter for me to use when I need that little extra umph. Something like:

"Tara is in the top 2% of angels I have known and I have no reservations in recommending her in whatever amazing goal she happens to be aspiring to/accomplishing, from regularly contributing to the New York Times, to qualifying for a full tuition scholarship at Graduate School, to snagging some handsome bloke to be her eye candy, to sailing the world as an onboard yacht dining expert and taster. It would be in your best interests to consider her as one of your top applicants/love interests/fascinating people to know/etc.

Sincerely,

The Nicest Man in the World"

Sunday Excerpts: Outliers: The Story of Success

2009-01-18T03:00:00.000-10:00

I can't recommend Outliers: The Story of Success highly enough. The author of Blink and The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell, explains how we've designed our social systems to create success and explains phenomena such as why most NHL players are born between January and March.

"We so profoundly personalize success [that] we miss opportunities to lift others onto the top rung. We make rules that frustrate achievement. We prematurely write off people as failures. We are too much in awe of those who succeed and far too dismissive of those who fail. And most of all we become too passive. We overlook just how large a role we all play--and by "we" I mean society--in determining who makes it and who doesn't" (pg. 32-33).

Standardized Testing Angels: Please Watch Over Me!

2009-01-16T03:00:00.000-10:00

"Hi Geoff*, I'm just calling to make sure all the pieces have been received for my application to Graduate School since the deadline is tomorrow. I'm not sure if I wrote this in my letter, but I would seriously even consider spending time in Antarctica melting glaciers with a candle lighter if it would secure my admittance slot."

"Ah, yes Tara, let me look. Thanks for being so desperate to get your education from our esteemed institution. Would you like to get a job at the university to so you can take two classes free each semester, which normally would cost you the price of small essential organs?"

"Oh, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes."

"Patience, child. Let's see if you make the first cut. Let me check to see that your materials have arrived.......mmmmmhhhhmmmm...looks good ...check....check....check....ah....good.....Yes. Well everything looks intact. But you know, it's been a bumper crop year for applicants. Too bad you've chosen to attend grad school during an economic downturn. You could re-take your GRE in order to be more competitive."

Long pause.

"Retake it? The GRE? Retake the GRE? Like that test I took four years ago right after graduation when my mind was still nimbly doing cart wheels and front flips around silly verbal analogies like apiary: bee. Um. Would you say, Geoff, that this is critical?"

"As a matter of fact, I would. Everything else is great. This is probably the only way to strengthen your application."

Long pause. Swallowing some large lump of raw fear that has suddenly appeared in my esophagus. Those blessed scores have served me well up to this point, fine institutions have have ushered me in with welcome arms, pleased with my credentials. And here I have been telling everyone around me who is preparing for the GRE, "No, don't worry, no big deal. I practically took it cold and had decent scores. You'll do great." If only they could me now, shaking in my don't-worry-make-love-and-be-happy Mukluks.

"Okay Geoff I understand. Please note that I will be taking it over again. And also if I happen to die during the intense preparation necessary for this test, please still consider my application and forward my acceptance letter to my Mother. Thanks."

And that, folks is what I wish I really did say. But then I thought, well, what if he thinks I'm unstable and contemplating taking my own life because of a silly little test? Now there's no point in that. No sense in rocking the boat that may be transporting my admission letter, right? Right.

And Geoff if you have Googled my name and are reading this, as mentioned in our later conversation, I will be completely hibernating and catching up on all that good quantitative stuff for this thing until D-Day--Friday, February 13th (auspicious for standardized test taking I hear). That's how badly I want this. Could you put in a good word to the selection committee? Thanks!

*Names have been changed to protect the dignity of others.

Did I Mention Glacier, Moscow, Seattle, & Oregon?

2009-01-15T07:46:00.000-10:00

In October Dianna and I took a sweet roadtrip...

Come Fly With Me

2009-01-13T14:30:00.000-10:00

Does this happen to anyone else?

This morning I woke up with Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” running through my mind and an extra little beat in my heart. In other words, some sort of ridiculous excitement for life (or a heart murmur). This used to happen much more during college when love and life constantly oscillated. This morning it’s inexplicable, making it even more rousing. I’m the same amount of enamored with anyone I adore, work is calm, and though the social calendar is quite auspicious this week (with a potential trip with the roomies to warmer lands for the weekend), everything feels relatively normal. Ah well, from whatever source, I’ll take it. Come fly with me, let’s fly, let’s fly away….

Excellent Article: Can You Afford It?

2009-01-13T03:00:00.000-10:00

A quick list of 10 questions to figure out what you really can afford. Read, read!

Free Suze Orman 2009 Action Plan on Oprah.com

2009-01-12T12:41:00.000-10:00

We'll just post Elizabeth's comment to my curtain post:

PS. Tara, did you see that on Oprah.com you can download for free (in English and Spanish!) the new Suze Orman book. We've already downloaded both versions!

Gosh, I love Oprah! And thanks Eli!

Mothers and Curtains

2009-01-06T08:00:00.000-10:00

Over Christmas I bought home the "small" project of making curtains for the five windows in my room. Let's just say I don't sew. Much. My Mom, sensing that my inexperience on the sewing machine would become a serious source of angst, rallied the troops (read Dad and Tom) who measured and pinned for me while I sat on the machine hemming for many hours straight.

It made me realize how incredible mothers are. How do they know exactly how they are needed? How do they develop so many skill sets and so much knowledge? How do they become so selfless and redirect their schedules in order to dedicate themselves to forgotten and last minute science fair projects or baking quick cookies for someone's birthday party at school or, in my case, helping her 25-year-old daughter through those do-it-yourself notions that sometimes seem like a good idea? How many crisises and mental breakdowns are averted thanks to the care and selflessness of mothers? At least one, last Friday and Saturday, as Mom helped me navigate tricky bobbins and exact measurements. And dozens more come to mind as I think about even this past week. Thanks Mom!

Hour #1 or something, I'm still cheerful about the whole thing. A few hours later I would be crumpled on the floor in hysterical fits of laughter and tears.

The end result was certainly lovely though...

Sunday Excerpts: Eclipse

2009-01-04T03:00:00.000-10:00

Okay, yes, I read them. Let's move on. There's a great part where Carlisle (I believe) says to Bella something like (I'm afraid I'm not in the mood to dig through the book and find the exact details, but it's a great quote), "Fulfill your duty first Bella, and then you may do what you wish."

Christmas at Home

2009-01-03T09:12:00.000-10:00

Being as our siblings are scattered all over the place right now, Tom and I were in charge of entertaining ourselves, Mom and Dad, and Migo. We had a blast.

This is the cold tundra that is my street. We mostly stayed inside and admired the beauty of the whiteness with many slices of hot apple crisp and tea.

Mom opening fluffy new pajamas.

Dad perusing his sweet new book he got for Christmas.

My eyes are closed here, but since it's some of the only evidence that exists that I may actually be enjoying winter conditions, I thought I would throw it in.

How Well Do You Know 2008?

2008-12-31T06:00:00.000-10:00

Take this quiz from the New York Times (you can go to Part II, click the PDF format, and print off). It's very good. Also useful if you happen to be preparing for the State Department Foreign Service Officers test. Happy New Year y'all.

Quickly Typed Emails

2008-12-12T05:48:00.001-10:00

"Tara, I do not have the originals from each individual, all I have is scanned people." (An email I just received at work about contractor information forms....heh. heh.)

The Park of Liberty

2008-12-03T18:28:00.000-10:00

Tonight I went straight from work to go run 1.3 miles (hey, I’m slowly getting back up there) around a local park. I learned, yesterday at a Stress and Relaxation class I took (not because I’m stressed but to prepare in case I ever am), how to focus on constant sound in order to enter a meditative state. So I tried that with my own breathing and felt like I’d tuned into a whole new world of internal focus—like I could hear the cogs and gears in my body turning and spinning to propel me forward.

Closing my run, I slowed to a walk near the slides. There were families milling about, but I couldn’t resist. Jaunting over to a giant green tube slide, I nonchalantly climbed up the playground equipment, passing up toddlers and kids just barely in kindergarten. Surprisingly, everyone seemed at ease with a full grown adult (well it's probably because no one ever guesses my age to be beyond the teenage years....grrr....at least, not with my hair long) trying to angle herself just right to get inside one of those smaller-than-I-thought tubes without getting stuck.

A little girl suddenly appeared behind me and tapped her foot impatiently as I thought about how they would cut me out of that very narrow, very long tube. Finally I pushed off and inched my way down (those curves are made for two-foot long little kid bodies). That little girl came flying down right after me, barely giving enough clearance for me to move out of her zippy path. We had a good laugh and I said something to her mom about, "Sometimes just needing to go sliding, ya know?" Her dad, at that point, was flying through the air on the swing set and I could tell she knew exactly what I meant.

As I walked back to the car, I tried to summon all of my writer/editor/masters-of-the-English-language ancestors/angels/anything-divine to please accompany me this week and whisper in my ear as I polish grad school letters. I’m pretty sure I had this conversation with God (and I’m pretty sure he doesn’t mind if I include it in this post):

Me: Uh, Father, I really need to write letters beyond my capacity.

God: Hmmm…I know just what you mean.

Me: Really?

God: There are some places on Earth, which I created, that felt inspired even beyond me.

Me: Oh. That’s lovely. Forget grad school. Can I move to one of those places?

God: Write your letter first. Trust me.

Ah, the wonders…

I Love Driving: Hanksville, Utah

2008-11-28T04:54:00.000-10:00

Our friend Jake is an engineer for National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and has been living most of his life lately in Hanksville, Utah to oversee a huge irragation project. So Mia and I decided to hop in the car and road trip on over to visit for last weekend.

Highlights: running, walking, resting, sleeping, recovering from cold, talking, laughing, movie watching (Kite Runner; loved the book more, but still excellent), eating, exploring, driving.

Mia

Tara

Jake

Concrete: wet cure

The worksite #2

Fish Lake

Ah, he hates it when we do that!

Would you like to see the rest of the pictures (including Mia's latest wardrobe addition: her "Almost Single" tee shirt)? Click here to see the rest of the album. It's pretty awesome.

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

2008-11-27T05:27:00.000-10:00

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

Please don't wet the toilet seats...

2008-11-26T03:00:00.000-10:00

I forgot to mention my most favorite quote from my trip to Atlanta.

There are (at least were that day) little ladies who stand guard at the bathrooms in the Atlanta airport, reminding us of what we were taught as toddlers. One blocked my path into the restroom just long enough to stare me straight in the eye, as if I looked totally incompetent, and instruct me (rather loudly), "Ma'am... Please don't piss on the toilet seats! I don't wanting be cleaning up yo' junk all night long!"

Heh. Heh. I love the south!

Great dating wisdom...

2008-11-19T03:00:00.000-10:00

"No! Don't worry, it's not you! It's our age. Because we're getting to the age when there are only dumb guys left." Mia to one of our roommates.

Most Purposeful Travel You've Done?

2008-11-17T03:00:00.000-10:00

Hey y'all,

Depending on how plans go, I'm toying with various travel ideas for next year. So I would love some feedback, most purposeful travel you've ever done? Or ideas for something you'd love to do? Please comment and gracias!

Rabbit Food

2008-11-14T05:23:00.000-10:00

"Well yeah, I guess your whole rabbit food diet is good for you," Army brother Ronnie during our Skype (love this, especially since he's stationed in South Korea at current!) conversation last night. He lost six pounds while staying with me in SLC (and he assures me that he ate plentifully and well). Heh. Heh.

I Love Flying: San Fran

2008-11-12T03:00:00.000-10:00

Frodo, Bridgette, Alok, Me--Wonderful people from my Graphic Facilitation training (highly recommended)

Dianna, Lisa, James, Me -- Getting Mexican Cokes

I love docks...

Maygron/Emerson Family and PK, people of my heart

My sweet sis Dianna and I, do you see the resemblance?

Halloween

2008-11-10T03:00:00.000-10:00

Me: Flapper, Derek: Mr. Classy Pants

Mia, Rosa, Me, Casandra (just missing our last roommate Laureen)

Rosa and Casandra

At our house party: Laureen, Mis, Me, Derek, Casandra, and Rosa in front

Dear Mr. President Barack Obama...

2008-11-09T05:53:00.000-10:00

To Our President Elect,

Congrats! I'm looking forward to your administration and a bit more progressive thought and change in my country. I have confidence that you'll do a fine job and I, and a whole host of those from my generation, support you. Please no rash and arbitrary decision making or White House sex scandals. Thanks! And I agree: Yes We Can!

Sunday Excerpts: The Time Traveler's Wife

2008-11-02T03:00:00.000-10:00

From The Time Traveler's Wife:

"She followed slowly, taking a long time, as though there were some obstacle in the way, and yet, as though once it was overcome, she would be beyond all walking and would fly."

AND

"This time I know Henry will come, eventually. I sometimes wonder if this readiness prevents the miracle from happening. But I have no choice. He is coming and I am here."

AND

"Last and best, thanks to Christopher; I waited for you, and now you're here." (Acknowledgments)

Great Download: A Timer

2008-10-29T02:00:00.000-10:00

Thanks Cher for this link! This little timer (which you can program to off to your favorite music) totally keeps me on track.

REPOSTED: Washington, D.C. in Six Pics & Seven Words

2008-10-22T02:00:00.000-10:00

Okay, all of the pictures should be working correctly now...

Purpose of trip: Work/Play
People: Destiny, Cherry & Spenc, Ali & Lincs
Seven Words: Politics, Conference, National Philharmonic, Vegetable Garden, Row-house-conversations (yep, one word).

Me, Ali, Lincoln

Stephani, Cherry, Spencer, Russ, Me

Cherry & Spenc

Ali & Lincs

Dest

Can you read that my pin says "LDS for Obama"? :)

Ronnie & PK: Playing with Me in the Mountains

2008-10-20T12:57:00.000-10:00

So, so much fun! Love you bro and awesome to meet you PK!

PK & Ronnie

Derek, Casandra, Shan, Ronnie, PK

Playing in the water

Me, Laureen, Rosa

The boys and I

Practicing our mad dancing skills

Group hug around PK

Awww....

Rosa and Mia

Sunday Excerpts: Fools Rush I, Part II

2008-10-19T02:00:00.000-10:00

From Fools Rush In: A True Story of War and Redemption, a second Sunday Excerpt from this thought provoking book:

"It was like landing in any new city as a traveler--foreign but somehow comforting as if by being totally lost I had regained sense of calm." (pg. 46)

Georgia, Part II

2008-10-18T02:00:00.000-10:00

After the wedding in Warner Robins, I set off for Augusta, Georgia!! A pictures say 1000 words. It was a wonderful trip.

Jose & Eli: Wed.

2008-10-16T15:53:00.000-10:00

Georgia, Part I: Jose & Eli (two wonderful friends from
my study abroad in Hungary) are wed in Warner Robins, GA
before flying back to Spain, where they reside.

Election '08 Stuff

2008-10-15T02:00:00.000-10:00

Considering the weight of this election, may we consider this passage from the scriptures:

"We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them." (Doctrine and Covenants 134:1)

This year I will be casting my vote by mail. Now as much as I love long lines in school gymnasiums, I've got to admit, I'm super stoked to just slap a stamp on my presidential preference from the comfort of my own home.

And of course, the third Presidential debate will be hosted tonight at Hofstra University. My political junkie roots must coming out of hibernation because I've been looking forward to it for two weeks now. Enjoy!

Josh and Jen: Engaged.

2008-10-13T11:08:00.000-10:00

Congrats friends! Can't wait till Jan. 3! ;)

Sunday Excerpts

2008-10-12T05:33:00.000-10:00

From Fools Rush In: A True Story of War and Redemption, a breath taking account of the Bosnian War:

"Everywhere in America is was just another day. Tomorrow people in Dallas, Chicago and New York would meet for coffee and talk about the stock market. America, the land of milk and honey, where in times of crisis citizens are often asked by their leaders to do their part for the country by 'going shopping'. And this night, like every night, millions would gather around the black box, remote in hand, for their daily dose of novocaine. Oblivion, one night at a time.

"Wouldn't it make sense if the politicians, instead of asking us to shop our way out of duress, were to encourage us to take a hike to the top of the nearest mountain or go fishing or make more love? Or never take them at their word? I'd vote for that candidate." (pg. 30)

I Love Flying!

2008-09-28T04:05:00.000-10:00

I'm leaving in an hour to Washington D.C. for the week. YAY!

A Puddle of Dribble

2008-09-22T02:00:00.000-10:00

So the other night Jen called to see if I wanted to go running. No. I've got to "get stuff done" I explained before openly acknowledging that I KNOW I'm becoming a little pile of dribble on the floor but I have a pile of paperwork to fill out.

That said, muscles are softening and my awesome friends must recognize it because the only invitations I've received lately have been of the physical exertion sort ("Want to go running?" No thanks. "Spinning?" Nah. "Shall we swim around the lake?" Sorry, not tonight. "Want to go on an 8-hour STRAIGHT UPHILL hike on Saturday?" Uhhh...are you kidding me? Eight hours away from my precious APPLICATIONS?). Not that I don't want to but I've got deadlines to meet and a month of traveling for work to pack for. Okay people? (I'm just kidding you know I love you all!;)) But still...I do need to be working out at least a little...

So I started doing these 7-15 minute workouts in the morning. SparkPeople.com has made some great videos (I'll put one at the end of this post) and I've started doing one per morning. At night I make myself go AT LEAST ONCE around the block in between essay writing and resume editing. I avoid letting the neighbors see me leave so that way when I come back 8 minutes later, in my workout clothes mind you, they don't think I'm a total wuss (uhhh...I forgot something?). I live in an active bike riding, Suburu driving neighborhood where people talk about the last marathon they ran ("Mmm...yeah, I ran one last weekend that wiped me out. But the one yesterday seemed like a stroll in the park, ya know?"). You have to watch your image around these parts.

But really, after a couple weeks being holed up and focused like a pit bull on my new life chapter goals, I've noticed that...gasp...maybe I am becoming a true wimp, as demonstrated by the conversation I had with myself on my one-block walk a couple nights ago.

Body: Whew! These hills are killers eh?
Mind: We only have one to go up one! What's wrong here?
Body: Well, we've been working hard lately.
Mind: We have?
Body: Yeah. We did one of those 11 minute workouts this morning. Remember?
Mind: Oh yeah, I forgot.
Body: It kicked our butt, remember?
Mind: Man, you're right! Okay, let's go home!
Body: Good idea! No need for cardiac arrest. Though schools might like that, "But even cardiac arrest couldn't stop me from attending GRAD SCHOOL!"
Mind: Good thinking! Okay then, one more block...

Were I Sarah Palin's child...

2008-09-17T03:59:00.000-10:00

I would be have christened as Moose Roadster Palin. Find out what your name would be were you born to Sarah and Todd. (And thanks Cindy Mindy Pindy for the link!)

If it feels like I'm M.I.A...

2008-09-16T10:14:00.001-10:00

If September happened to be declared, at least on Tara’s personal calendar, “figure out the next chapter in life month”, then it’s a strong possibility that a little teensy mustard seed of an idea that I had to apply to a couple other grad programs has blossomed into a wild orchard of uncontrollable growth. The world is full of amazing opportunities! I spent last night pruning, weeding, and trying to tame the beast, which resulted in a “narrowed” list of eight academically exciting programs for which I’m stoked to apply for.

But, Tara, you may ask, weren’t you already accepted to the U and didn’t you already start your MPA program? Yes, but, you can transfer a few credits and, I figure, I have to establish residency for a couple years anyway, so I may as well try to find something that suits my life plan a bit better. Plus I’d be mad at myself if I didn’t at least APPLY for the adventure even if do end up contently staying right here in my little mountain city that I grow to love more each day.

And for all of that (plus abundant travel recently), it may feel like I'm a bit m.i.a., but don't worry. Soon it will all be submitted, and everything will be back to normal...

My boss on her husband's cooking skills...

2008-09-16T02:00:00.000-10:00

"Toast is hard for him..." Heh. Heh.

While Studying About the Environment

2008-09-05T02:00:00.001-10:00

This is from my AWESOME friend Cherry (who I will be visiting in D.C. at the end of Sept!):

"I am doing some research on Environment and while reading an article, out of nowhere came the topic for the overall last sentence:

'In addition, the breeding of porcupines fights poaching, because the porcupines can satisfy the need for meat reducing the pressures on wild game.'

"I hope this gave you a big smile and perhaps a new strategy for attaining saving the environment ..and ultimately world peace!"

Heh. Heh.

A near obsession...

2008-09-03T11:55:00.000-10:00

So recently I've noticed that both my Gmail and my work email accounts have special folders dedicated to motorcycle and scooter news, stats, pictures, etc. And people at work send me anything they find on the subject. My moped has been an awesome purchase, and now I can pretty much say life would not be complete without my little two wheeled sidekick.

On my life list, which I made several years ago (and have been adding to and somewhat altering ever since), I added biking across the country on a Harley. Being fairly open to the details of the experience, I decided it would probably happen closer to my retirement years, I could do it alone or with my special someone, with a group or without, whatever. I just want to don my leathers, grow my hair out enough for a long braid, and ride with the wind. But given my recent completion of my MSF class, this adventure just may have to be bumped up a bit

I Love Flying!

2008-08-28T07:59:00.000-10:00

I can't wait to go to Georgia tomorrow for the long weekend! Jose and Liz are getting married in Warner Robins, a wee bit south of Atlanta. I hope I get to eat fried okra while I'm there (her mom, Glenda, is an amazing southern cook). YAY!

Zucchini "Pasta"

2008-08-27T05:48:00.000-10:00

Well, is THIS doesn't make you salivate right onto keyboard, I don't know what will...mmm.....

The good part...

2008-08-26T03:41:00.000-10:00

Breaking up, as we all know, is basically a real bummer (it'll be great when that never has to happen again), but the GOOD part is:

My part of the house gets a deep cleaning
Major monthly planning sessions are reinstated
Bags for trips (Atlanta this weekend!) get packed EARLY (whoa!)
Buttons are sewn back on pants that have been missing buttons for months
Socks get darned
Books are finished
Bread is baked
Etc., Etc.

Essentially, life gets really, really organized. That, at least, is a good feeling. ;)