Art Exhibit and Temple Square

Jon and I went to the Carl Bloch art exhibit last night at BYU. I love Bloch's work - he is one of my favorite artists, especially his depictions of Christ. Here are some of the images we saw:

This is my favorite - the angel comforting Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane.

This one was not at BYU, but I saw it last week in the Visitor's Center up at Temple Square. It is beautiful, and it was perfect for the time of the year. I walked around the Visitors' Center and started with the picture that depicts the angel telling Mary that she would have a son. Then the pictures went in order from there - Christ's birth (above), His teaching in the temple, getting baptized, healing the sick, the crucifixion, rising again, and speaking to Mary Magdalene. (Plus many more).

We also walked around Temple Square and saw the Christmas lights, and were able to listen to a choir concert in the Assembly Hall (Christmas music!) and to sit and listen to an amazing organ piece in the old Tabernacle. I've never done that before, and I want to go back and watch/hear again. The young man was amazing! His feet moved along the pedals as fast as his fingers moved on the keys!

I am grateful to live in Utah and to have so many opportunities to feel the spirit.

Christmas Bread

I woke up at 4 this morning and made homemade bread for my coworkers at work. They all turned out well (9 loaves in the oven!) and I added some jam with them. Now I need to make some for myself!

Happiness

There are a lot of ups and downs in life. Like, a down would be that I spent $75 dollars at Rite Aid last night for things that I needed...and for things that I didn't need. The bill ran up to be $95, which was a major surprise - I should probably add up the prices in my head before I head to the cash register. So I removed the Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Tone Correcting Moisturizer for $20 -something that I probably really did need. But I could have gone without the $2 nail polish (which color I'm pretty sure I already have), or the $3 eye shadow brush, or the nudish-pink lip liner, since I don't even wear lipstick. And instead of buying a cheap razor to make up for the more expensive spending, I realized after shaving this morning that I probably should have binged a little and bought the nicer one. And perhaps the $.88 cent Suave shampoo IS just as good as the $8 per bottle shampoo and conditioner. (Ok, maybe not...) I think I was having an ugly day and I just needed stuff to make me feel good about myself and make me pretty. I also got the Neutrogena Body Oil. My skin isn't looking any more luminous than it did before I put it on. Maybe I'm just being a negative Nancy and need to give it more than one try. I think I just feel guilty for spending so much, especially at Christmas time when I need to be buying presents for other people. BUT, I will focus on the positive and say that I am happy because my hair will smell good and my legs will be smooth and my toenails will be red and my skin will feel soft.
I ordered a new David Lanz piano book. Jon and I went to his concert on Saturday and it was amazing. My new favorite song is called "Her Solitude" so I went to the mall on Monday night and bought the book at the music store. (I love how festive the mall is, with the huge Christmas tree and the lights everywhere!) Growing up, we had a digital piano that started messing up and would play some notes louder and others softer or hold out notes longer than they should. Mine is starting to do that. :( BUT, I am grateful and happy that Emma has a piano and I can practice on hers. And I am happy because he creates such beautiful music and all of his songs sound so good!
I also set up the Christmas tree on Monday night. The house was all decorated for Christmas except for the tree, and even though it killed my hands and ripped them up (seriously, so many scratches and red spots!), I am happy because the house looks so festive now and I love seeing the twinkling tree through the window.
I am happy to have Jon in my life. He makes me want to be a better person, and I love him so much. The more I'm with him, the happier I am. We do a lot of activities together and are getting to know each other more and more. I am excited to see what the future holds, but I'm pretty sure it will be positive. :) He is always giving me compliments. He's a gentleman and opens the car door and store door every single time we go somewhere. He makes me feel good about myself, and he motivates me to do good in the world and be better.
I am happy because of the holiday season. I am happy that I have people to spend it with. It may not be with my immediate family, but I am lucky to have people around me who love me and invite me to be with them during Christmas. I will miss being with my family and parents and nephews and nieces, but I am grateful for the time to spend with and grow closer to others.
I am happy and grateful to be a member of the church. I am grateful for an awesome bishop who loves all of the members in his ward and wants to help them and see them succeed. Bishop Allen is amazing and I can always feel his love for me when I talk to him.
I am happy because I have so many blessings. A job, friends, family, a roof over my head, food to eat, a car to get me places, a church that is close by, for money to buy necessities (and some unnecessary things), for warm clothes in the winter, for good health, and so much more.
It's time to focus on the good instead of the bad. Although I'm a little upset with myself for spending that much money at Rite Aid for things that were not necessary, I am happy that I will feel better about myself and look pretty. (Even though I could still use that Skin Toner Moisturizer stuff...)

3 Months and 2 Days Later...

Jon said I love you today.

And of course I said it back.

Oh the Weather Outside is Frightful...

But the fire is sooo delightful...

Wow, I can't believe it's been almost a month since I posted last. It's been very cold, I think we DO need a fire...

Update: I haven't been working out every day like I was planning. It's been sporadic. A few times a week, plus Jon and I have been playing a lot of football/baseball lately. Still not enough exercise, though, since I haven't lost anything. I haven't gained either. But the goal is to lose, so it's time to get back on track! I asked Megan if she'd be willing to take some pictures of me so I can post before and after pictures. Maybe we'll take them this week so I can actually see the progression and see my body changing. I think that will help motivate. Unfortunately, nothing much seems to motivate me lately. I don't know what my problem is. I just must not want it bad enough.

Work is going well, but I'm getting a little restless. Answering phones all day and listening to students complain is getting old.

Jon has had the stomach flu for the past few days, and as much as I brag about my 'awesome' immune system, I think I may be coming down with something. I always get the 'annual cold', but something feels different. My throat is scratchy and my stomach is slowly starting to churn. This weather is slowing me down - I've been going to bed early, but when my alarm goes off in the morning, I'm still pushing snooze about 10 times.

I haven't had a debit card for 2 weeks now. I think it's a blessing in disguise. It should be coming this week, and I'm hoping to spread the quarter tank of gas that I have over the next week until it comes in the mail. I have my grocery list ready, too! At least it's safe to walk around the mall lately. There are temptations, but I know I can't give in to them! You can't buy stuff without money. I haven't let myself go into Target, because I may just break out my checkbook in that store... I still think about the emerald green sweater I saw in there a month or two ago...

I did buy tickets to go see David Lanz's Christmas concert. He's a famous pianist and he's coming to the Covey Center on December 4th. Along with Christmas music, he'll also be playing his more famous songs, like Cristofori's Dream (I think of Ernie Scheyder and Tri-City when I hear that song...he used to play it all the time in the chapel, so it would echo all over the school). And of course we girls would also play it over and over again.

I wanted to see The Nutcracker in SLC this year also, but the tickets are very expensive. BUT, Megan and I discovered that they are also showing the ballet at the Covey Center, and it's a lot less expensive. Maybe that can be our Christmas gift to each other. How about that, Meggo? Dinner and a show!

Anyway, here's my Christmas list:

- contact solution
- deodorant
- toothpaste
- gift card (to pretty much anywhere: I love DSW, Target, Maceys, Macys, JCPenny, Old Navy, Sephora, etc.)
- handheld mirror (to do my makeup)
- purse (I love this brown satchel http://www.handbagheaven.com/charley-bowler-satchel.html or this brown messenger bag http://www.handbagheaven.com/sonia-stitched-messenger-bag.html )
- Victoria's Secret 'Sexy Little Things Noir' perfume. It's my new favorite. (Jon knows this, so we'll see...)

And, I would like to know what men like for gifts! I swear, they are the hardest to shop for. I think I know what I'm getting everyone on my list already, except for John Butler and Jon Knight. The two men (other than Dad) are who I have to buy something for. I need ideas. And they say girls are hard...

Mom and Dad are coming out here for Thanksgiving! They fly out Thanksgiving Day, and I can't wait to see them. Mom will need to make some lefsa! Mmm... :) Only a week and a half away...

Day 4

Day 4: Check

Yesterday was Day 4. I didn't go to bed until 11:30 the night before, so I decided to sleep in and work out last night instead. It wasn't as bad as I thought. BUT, I did the same thing this morning. I slept in and decided I would work out tonight. Friday night, no less. Jon and I are going on a date so I can't work out tonight! And our friend's girlfriend is sleeping on our couch tonight and tomorrow night. I obviously did not think ahead this morning. And I wasn't even able to sleep after the alarm went off. I should have just jumped out of bed. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now.

Jon and I went to the park on Wednesday and hit some baseballs. My hitting is getting a lot better! My pitching and throwing...not so much. Although I did pitch one straight to him, and he hit it so hard the ball whizzed by me so fast I could hear it. I just closed my eyes and put my hands to my face and didn't move. I think I was paralyzed for a moment; it was THIS close to my face! So my pitching got worse after that. I think I was just really nervous that the ball was going to hit me. I couldn't concentrate. Poor Jon. I bet only 3 out of 10 balls that I pitched were actually ok. Maybe even less...

Tonight we are going to Trafalga to play mini-golf and drive some go-karts. (I'm sure we'll do some batting cages as well...) We babysat on Wednesday night and made some good money. I'm pretty excited to go on a date! We go for walks, watch movies, hang out with nieces and nephews, go to the park, study, etc. but I am especially excited to go out. Even though we've been dating for almost 2 months, I feel like I need to dress up and look extra cute! Megan is curling my hair, and Emma and I are going to Nordstrom's after work today - I'm SO tempted to buy something pretty and new for tonight. I don't NEED anything, but new clothes just make me feel good about myself! We'll see. I'm sure I'll return to the car empty-handed. I have enough clothes, and I know it. I just need that to sink in to my brain...

Day 3

Day 3: Check

I pushed snooze twice this morning. After going to bed at 11 the night before, my body was tired. But surprisingly, it wasn't too hard to get up! It was definitely a mind over matter moment. Again, I considered working out tonight instead. But I'm babysitting and won't be home until 9ish, and my friend is coming over afterwards to make rolls for her class tomorrow. There would be no time, and I knew it.

I only did a 30 minute workout this morning, but I think it worked me harder than a 45 minute workout. It went up to level 8 a few times and would stay there for a few minutes, and that was killer. My legs started to feel like jello jigglers. But it was sweet bliss when it slowed down and went back to level 3 or 4.

I've decided to weigh myself on Sunday mornings. After 6 days of working out, I hope to see a difference, even if it's just a little bit. As long as the number is slowly shrinking, I'll be happy. Checking every day will drive me crazy, especially if I don't see a difference, or if it goes up (!!)

Day 2

Day 2 - Check

This morning was cold, and my bed was warm. I tried to talk myself out of getting up, and to work out tonight instead. I pushed snooze once, stayed in bed, and thought about my day yesterday:

Jon and I went to the park to study. (Well, he studies. I quiz him, look at magazines,and people-watch). I was watching one happy couple walk across the big stretch of grass and the boy picked the girl up and spun her around and she was laughing and having a good time. Then I thought to myself: I want to be that girl. The kind of girl that a boy can just pick up and spin around. Jon is strong and can pick me up, but it's awkward because the whole time I worry he'll drop me or collapse under my weight. I don't want to feel his arms shake. Before I knew it, I was out of bed and putting my sneakers on.

I watch a movie while I work out. Today's movie was Tuck Everlasting. Half today, half tomorrow. Or split it into three days if it's a long one.

Last night Jon and I were watching Unsolved Mysteries, and when I got off the couch my legs were weak and felt like jello; I had no idea why. I had to think about it for a while. Then I remembered I worked out in the morning. Sheesh, I think my memory is starting to go.

Day 1

Time to start counting again! The goal is to work out 6 days a week. I'll be getting on that elliptical every morning at 5:15 and go until 6:00. 45 minutes. My next goal is to add strength training at night, 2-3 times a week. But for now, I'll stick with the cardio every morning.

Day 1: Check

Waking up wasn't as rough as I thought. I was sick Saturday night/Sunday morning, and was up all night, so I figured that it would be extra hard to wake up this morning. But, I went to bed extra early last night and only woke up once. I slept in my workout clothes so I would be ready to jump out of bed, put on my shoes and my contacts, and be ready to go. I forgot to weigh myself this morning, so I will tomorrow, and every morning from here on out. Gotta keep track!

Thought of the morning: mind over body. Over and over again. Mind over body, mind over body. The first 5 minutes weren't awful. But the countdown from 39:40 to 12:11 remaining wasn't good. I need to stop looking at the clock! When I hit 22:30, I was tempted to quit. I figured that I already had 22 minutes of a hard workout, that was enough - especially after not working out in over a month. But I pressed forward. I always feels good when I finish working out. Today I burned 515 calories! And who wants to eat any junk food after that? It'd be a waste of a workout.

I need to remember to drink lots of water. This morning I drank about 20 ounces, and right now I'm sipping from another water bottle. But sometimes I just don't LIKE water. Maybe I need to "pump it up" with Crystal Light, just like they do in the commercials.

A Perfect Day

Yesterday was a perfect day.

Even though work was slow. And one of the kids I babysat last night was ornery and wouldn't stop crying. And I'm on a budget. And the backyard needs to be mowed. And my bedroom isn't the very cleanest.

BUT, yesterday was perfect because:

-I got to hang out with Jon. We opened up some new baseball cards together, and I love to see how excited he is when he gets one that he's been wanting for a long time. We ate lunch together at home, then went to the Provo temple and walked around and enjoyed each other's company. We stayed and sat on the lawn for a long time and talked about everything and anything. Then we went to The Creamery and as soon as we walked in, Elza was right there! She usually doesn't work on Wednesdays, and it was a nice surprise. We bought dinner at the grill - a kid's hamburger, fries, drink, and ice cream - only $3.50 a person, and enjoyed eating it while sitting in the booth and talking some more. Afterwards, we went home and played some Arcade basketball. Best out of 3. Jon beats me every time, but I give him the run for his money. Some games are pretty close...others are not. THEN, we got to babysit Chris and Marian and baby John while Emma and John played softball. I love seeing and playing with the kids, and Jon is great with them. They always love when he comes over to play, and I know Jon loves seeing them, too.

- As mentioned before, I got to see Elza at The Creamery! Elza is always so positive and smiley, it's hard not to just automatically cheer up when you see her face.

- I got to see Meggo! It wasn't for very long, (only a couple of minutes), but any day that we see each other is kind of rare. Opposite schedules, work, boyfriend, school, etc. But Megan is constantly thinking about others. Even when she is having a hard time, she forgets about herself and always asks me what she can do to help me or make me feel better. I couldn't ask for a better roommate. (And, she throws glamorous dinner parties!)

- I talked to mom on the phone. I do this almost every day. So obviously that always adds to the perfect day. Sometimes it's only a 5 minute conversation, sometimes it's 50 minutes. Either way, I love talking to Mumsy. Even when she is very busy and I interrupt dinner or Mexican train, etc, she always talks to me.

- I read some of my book that I got from the library. "It's a Wonderful Lie: 26 Truths About Life in Your Twenties". There are 26 chapters from different female authors. Expectations they had growing up and what they thought life would be in their twenties: a glamorous life filled with gorgeous clothes, the perfect job, beautiful apartment, lots of money, etc. And then they write about the reality of it: debt, mice in their apartment, bar tending, being single. So far I'm enjoying the book; it makes me not feel so bad for being not-so-rich and not having the nicest furniture or decorations in my house. At least I haven't seen any mice!

- I have a budget. It's good and bad. Good, because I'll learn self-control and I'll be able to save money. Bad, because I have materialistic qualities and I like A LOT of THINGS. BUT, I can honestly say that I'm pretty RELIEVED. Before, I wasn't spending more than what I make, but I wasn't saving up much money either. So far, so good. Then again, it's only been a few days. But I always look through home decorating and furniture magazines, and I dog-ear the pages that have things that I love and would like for my future home; those wood floors, a kitchen sink or stove, a certain bathtub, that color on the walls, a particular porch, etc. Obviously, to eventually get those things, I need to have money. I always thought "have the cash first" before buying anything. Unless it's a car or house. As much as I would like those things now, I'm trying to get out of the rut and not expect instant gratification.

Anyway, that's all part of my perfect day yesterday. :)

Mistletoe and Holly

Two words. Il Divo.

These four men make beautiful music together. They even have beautiful faces to go with their beautiful voices. I mean, LOOK at them. Young, handsome, rich, famous, AND talented.

I'm listening to their Christmas album right now (yes, I know it's only the middle of October. But December just goes by too fast, and I don't get my Christmas music fix. I have to start early!)

I am getting into the Christmas spirit! I just need some snow, some twinkle lights, a mug of hot chocolate, a book filled with Christmas stories, and I'll be all set! (And don't forget the mistletoe...)

A Big Purchase

This is the one I bought. A Healthrider h90e

I bought an elliptical! After talking and thinking about it for a few months, I finally made the plunge. It's being delivered later this week, and I can't wait! It has an iFit hookup, iPOD plug, and a fan. 20 workouts, and more.
All together I had lost 30 pounds, but have gained 10 pounds back. I stopped working out as much and stopped watching what I ate. I've done this before - I lose weight and feel good about myself, and I think I can start to eat whatever I want again. But it's not so! I can feel the weight in my stomach and I hate that feeling. I'm so excited to start working out again and feeling good about myself. I've decided to wake up at 5 every morning do a 45 minute workout while I watch a show. I hate working out at night, because then I have a feeling of dread all day that I STILL need to work out. In the morning, I get it over with, I feel good the rest of the day, and I eat better because I don't want to waste the calories I just burned! I'm ready to keep lowering my weight. I want to feel and look healthy. I want to feel good about myself and my body. I don't want to 'let myself go' just because I'm dating somebody. I did that last time and gained 20 pounds. No more!

Stand By Your Man

I bet Tammy sure knew what she was singing about...

Sometimes it's hard to be a woman
Giving all your love to just one man

You'll have bad times

And he'll have good times

Doing things that you don't understand

But if you love him you'll forgive him

Even though he's hard to understand

And if you love him

Oh be proud of him

'Cause after all he's just a man.

It's Busy at Work Today...Obviously

Etc...

Life has been busy lately - work has been a bit stressful, since there are more people starting school in the fall and there were more programs available. Which means a lot more paperwork and scanning and everything in between. Last week I dreaded going to work every day, but this week has gone well so far. Although it's only 9AM on a Monday...
General Conference this past weekend was amazing. The older I get, the more I appreciate and understand and can apply the principles they talk about into my life. I was able to go to the Sunday morning session with the Spoken Word with Jon and Megan, which was very enjoyable. I love the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and I love listening to them live. You can definitely feel the Spirit in the conference center.
Jon and I watched Sunday's second session at his parents' house and enjoyed lunch and dinner with his family. I like his family a lot, and his parents are great.
It was great to be home a few weeks ago! I'm so grateful that Shauna and the boys stayed for an extra 2 days so I could see them! I have such handsome nephews. Ellie and Abby are dolls and Ellie has the sweetest disposition.
I would post some pictures on here of my adventures, and I'm sure I will later, but I figure everyone has facebook now and can see them on there. They'd be the same pictures, so whatev.

Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'...

I'm going home in less than a week. I can't wait! I'm sad that not everyone will be there, but it will be good to spend some alone time with mom and dad and just relax and get away for a while. I plan to do some 4-wheeling, float down the creek, shop with mumsy, walk around the fields with mumsy, take the ranger out for a few rides, and have some of mom's homemade bread. :) I'm considering driving to NH to visit people and see the nephews there, but I haven't decided yet. We'll see when the time comes.

The Utah State Fair is this weekend and all of next week. We were going to go tonight, but Jon hasn't been feeling well. And who wants to go to the fair when you're feeling sick? So hopefully he'll be all better by Monday and we can go then, instead.

Tomorrow night we are going to a benefit concert and the proceeds go to physical therapy for kids with disabilities. Perfect, huh, since he's in the PTA program! I have no idea what kind of music is going to be played, but I'm sure it will be a good time.

I babysat 5 kids by myself this past Wednesday. Kudos to everyone who can do that. I think everything starts going downhill right before the parents get home. It ALWAYS happens. Someone wakes up, someone needs a diaper change, a baby starts to cry, or someone is needing a drink. I probably look so incompetent when the parents walk in the door! Haha. Oh well, I think that happens to everyone, some time or another.

Anyway, that's the update for now. I need to post some pictures that we took from our Nebo Loop trip. I think we may have to do it again, or at least do the Alpine Loop to get some pictures of the leaves changing.

Autumn

I love fall. It's my favorite season. The tree colors on the mountains are beginning to change! I can't wait to pick pumpkins and have apple cider and go through a cornfield maze and wear sweatshirts and sweaters and my cowgirl boots!

On Friday last week, Jon and I went to SLC and walked around temple square and enjoyed the flowers and scenery. I love that place - it's so peaceful and you can definitely feel the Spirit. I should have taken more pictures! We walked over to the church museum and spent over an hour there; the workers are very informative and I loved hearing the stories and history of a lot of the items (sometimes it was hard to walk away - they just kept talking!)

Megan and I went to the Relief Society service project last Thursday. We went to the local cemetery and helped rake and clean up the grass. It was pretty fun, the ladies in Relief Society are great. I feel a sense of unity with the sisters that I meet with every Sunday and I love joining them every week. It was extra cool because I talked to Jon afterwards and told him that I saw Jesse Knight's grave (his something-great grandfather). I love family history and even at the church history museum we saw letters that were written by some of his family members. I told him to get them back - haha. There are a lot of Knights in the church, and I'm sure a lot of them would love to have a part of their ancestors.

I'm going home in a week and a half and I can't wait! It's time to take a break and just be away from work and Provo for a bit and relax in the country and with family.

Today is Labor Day. Thank you to all of the Laborers out there. That's what I'm doing right now. Working 9-4. Joy. (Then again, it's double pay. So I can't complain!)

Good News

Good news all around.

First, I'm going home in just 2.5 weeks. I can't wait to see everyone!

Second, I weighed myself tonight. It was the lowest ever. Again. (And hello! It's night time! So it ought to be even lower tomorrow, right?!)

Third, church was great today. Great talks (including an awesome one from my roomie MEGAN!), great lesson by the Bishopric in the combined meeting. We all wrote down one or two goals we want to work on, sealed them in an envelope, and gave them to the Bishop. He's going to read them, and then meet with all of us in the future and see how we are doing on our goals. Bishop Allen is amazing, and I can totally feel the love he has for all of us in the ward.

Fourth, I have a boyfriend. Jonathan Knight. Jon Knight. Mr. Knight(ley), haha... I haven't said the word boyfriend in a year, and it sounds/feels good and funny at the same time. I'm so excited for the future adventures we'll have together. We already have so many ideas and plans! He's great, and I can't wait for everyone to meet/get to know him. :)

Low Ridah...

Good News:
Every day this week I weighed myself. Every day this week, the number on the scale gets lower. 3.5 pounds to go to get to a whole new round of 10s!

Happy

Today is a great day.

I'm so happy. With life, with family, with friends, with work, with everything!

(Can you tell that I have a date tomorrow ? Haha...)

Day 10: A Letter to Someone Who Has Caused You Pain

To the Boy in 2nd Grade Who Put a Tack on My Seat 15 years ago:

THAT caused me pain. I don't think I've ever moved so fast or jumped so high in my life.

-Molly

(I'm in such a good mood today, who can think seriously about pain from the past?)

Day 9: List Some of Your Favorite Blogs

My favorite blogs include all of the blogs to the left.

I also enjoy The Pioneer Woman. I would like her life.

And I blog-hop a lot. I like cooking/baking blogs, exercise blogs, home decoration, etc. There are so many talented people out there! I love getting new ideas from their ideas.

Day 8: A Photo of Me Taken Recently

Day 7: A Funny Youtube Video

Ok, I don't watch youtube. I think I've only seen 3 or 4 videos from there my whole life. So I'm skipping this post, and letting you know that:
Today I weighed my lowest so far in a long time. I was stuck at this one number for about 3 weeks, and I finally got past it! Whoowhee!

Day 6: What I Ate Today

Breakfast: toast and scrambled eggs, and some Simply Limeade (mmm, the few calories that I will drink, other than skim milk)
Snack: nectarine, and some Red Vines (I'd rather have licorice...)
Late Lunch/Early Dinner: Turkey and spinach sandwich, carrots, and a chocolate pudding
Evening Snack: Popcorn (probably a bit burned...I've lost my touch!)

Day 5: A Letter to My Crush

To my Past, Present, and Future Crushes,

You obviously made an impression on me. I think you're a babe! You are always willing to help others, and you always have a compliment on the tip of your tongue. You smile or wink when I walk by, which makes me just melt. You help me do the dishes after dinner and don't leave until everything is all cleaned up. You are outgoing, and you always make people around you feel good about themselves. You have goals and ambitions, and know what you want out of life. You are comfortable around kids and can easily entertain them. You are a well-rounded person, and enjoy a variety of activities, whether it be going to a museum or concert, or camping and 4-wheeling. You're always happy to help when I need some guidance or comfort or someone to lean on. You are a positive person, and you always look for the good or the silver lining in negative situations. You support my dreams and push me to be a better person. It takes me forever to get ready if I know I'm going to see you that day. I want to look good for you and I want to impress you. Now, if only you would notice...

Your crush,


Molly

Day 4: A Picture of Me Over 10 Years Old

Since I don't have a scanner, I am taking these pictures off of facebook. It works.

When I was still cute...

- a frog in "The Snow Queen" ballet
Family Picture

(taken exactly 10 years ago. Sneakers with jeans...what can I say?)

Day 3: My Favorite Movie(s)

Like my sister Hannah, I don't have just ONE favorite movie. So here are some of my top picks:

An Affair to Remember
Life is Beautiful
Leap Year
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
State Fair
Pride and Prejudice
Lord of the Rings trilogy
Gone With the Wind
Vertigo
Madagascar
The Bourne trilogy

Day 2: Everything That Happened in Your Day

- Bed at 1AM (that counts for today, right?)
-alarm goes off at 6:30AM, and I push snooze twice (not that I could fall back asleep or anything!)
-shower, get dressed
-straightened hair (that gets it's own bullet - it takes a while)
-eat a bowl of cereal while I watch Psych on Hulu and finish my makeup
-drive to Emma's house
-dance and read books with Marian and Chris while we wait for Emma to get home
-go to Ikea
-bought a couple of things (Ok, I know you want to know: duvet cover with shams, a set of kitchen towels, a spatula, measuring cups, and a glass bottle)
-raced home to change my outfit for work
-work 2-9
-made my bed (just to climb back into it)
-had a craving to make either a turkey sandwich or eggs. Decided to make some hard boiled eggs for breakfast in the morning
-checked out facebook, email, etc
-read some of the book that I'm working on
-in bed with lights out at 10:45

Day 1: Introducing Myself

My name is Molly. I am a 22 year old SWF. I was born in Portsmouth, NH and grew up in Dover/Somersworth, NH. I am the youngest of four kids. I have one brother, Mike, and two sisters, Hannah and Emma. I have 4 handsome nephews and 3 beautiful nieces.
I have been living and working in Provo, UT for the past four years. I am a secretary (official title: Front Desk Manager) for a college in the area. I like my job and the people I work with.
I like: playing with my nieces and nephews, going for drives, watching shows online, laying out, swimming, cooking/baking, working, reading, going to the library, shoes, church, playing games, singing in the choir, good friends, family, anything w/ chocolate, diet coke (I wish they still had it with lemon!), movies, traveling, service, music, dancing, learning new things
I don't care for: spiders, or bugs, or anything to do with creepy crawlers. And that probably sums it up.
So right now I'm just working, and thinking about going to night school this fall or spring. I have no idea what I want to do with my life! There are so many options. So working right now is just the best thing for me. Who knows where life will take me.

50 First Blogs

My sister Hannah is doing one of these these 50 entries every day on her blog, so I've decided to follow suit and do the same.

Day 1: Introduce yourself
Day 2: A bulleted list of everything that happened in your day
Day 3: Your favorite movie
Day 4: A photo of you taken over 10 years ago
Day 5: A letter to your crush
Day 6: A list of what you ate today
Day 7: A youtube video you find funny
Day 8: A photo of you taken recently
Day 9: List some of your favorite blogs
Day 10: A letter to a person who has caused you pain
Day 11: Share your favorite recipe(s)
Day 12: Self portrait
Day 13: Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 14: A song from your childhood
Day 15: A letter to someone you wish you could meet
Day 16: Provide pictures of 5 celebrity crushes
Day 17: A photo that makes you sad
Day 18: Set or share a goal
Day 19: Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 20: A letter to someone that changed your life
Day 21: Your favorite television program
Day 22: A photo that makes you happy
Day 23: Share one of your favorite tunes
Day 24: Time to face morph
Day 25: Someone you judged by their first impression
Day 26: Favorite books
Day 27: A talent of yours
Day 28: Favorite places to shop
Day 29: Your favorite color
Day 30: The friendliest person you knew for only 1 day
Day 31: Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 32: A photo you took
Day 33: What you're craving right now
Day 34: Your favorite quote
Day 35: A letter to an ex
Day 36: Some hobbies of yours
Day 37: A song that you like to dance to
Day 38: A photo of your parents
Day 39: Zodiac sign and do you think it fits your personality
Day 40: A deceased person you wish you could talk to
Day 41: Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 42: A bad habit you have
Day 43: A picture of your favorite place in the world
Day 44: Something that fascinates you and why
Day 45: A letter to yourself a year ago
Day 46: Photos of personal things in your life (pets, family, house, etc)
Day 47: Birthday wish list
Day 48: A photo of you right now
Day 49: Hopes, dreams, and plans for the next 365 days
Day 50: A letter to your reflection in the mirror

So tomorrow, I will introduce myself!

Awesome

So I've been reading on this website throughout the morning: 1000awesomethings.com

The author writes about the simplest, every day happenings that are pretty 'awesome'. He titles each post, then goes into more depth about each subject. And they are so true. Here are some (ok, many) examples: (Click on the line to read more)

#686 When you open your cell phone and there are a bunch of text messages waiting

#682 When your boss leaves early for the day

#588 Tossing garbage in the trash can from far away

#577 Looking at the clock and seeing that it’s 12:34

#464 When characters in movies visit a place you know

#452 Picking things up with your feet

#986 When you pull to a red light and the guy in front of you nudges up a bit so you can make a right turn

#962 Being the guy on the construction crew who gets to hold the Stop sign

#966 Living with someone who doesn’t mind killing spiders

#958 Being the first person into a really crowded movie theater and getting the prime seats

If you're ever bored at work or need some light reading or want a good laugh, go to the website.

I might just have to go buy the book, too.

Who's Who?

Finally, a picture of me and a baby born in the summer while I still look tan...

Baby Boy Butler 2

Baby Boy Butler!!

Peanut Butter Kisses

The Goldenrod

I'm having a craving.

Peanut butter salt water taffy from The Goldenrod in York Beach, Maine.

My mouth is watering just thinking about those golden kisses with peanut butter in the middle.

Every time we went to Short Sands in the summer, we would stop at The Goldenrod and stare through the big glass window and watch the taffy be pulled. A few feet over, in the next window, we'd watch every little piece of confection be wrapped in wax paper and go down a slide to join the other pieces of candy.

I'd buy a small box - half full of the peanut butter kisses, and the other half mixed with chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Mmmm.

And I've discovered that you can order them online.

Here is how the taffy kisses are made - don't they just sound delectable?

The Art & Science of Salt Water Taffy: (from their website)

Cooking: Using the recipe created in 1896 by Edward Talpey, the taffy is cooked to a precise temperature in big copper kettles. Cooking time and temperature vary depending on weather conditions, and the secret of perfect taffy is knowing how to read the New England weather.

Cooling: After reaching the precise cooking temperature, the boiling taffy is poured onto special cooling tables. The taffy is cooled into sheets and when it has been cooled to the right temperature and consistency, it’s transferred onto the pulling machines.

Pulling: This process was once performed by throwing taffy over a hook mounted on the wall and then pulling by hand. Today the taffy is pulled and fluffed to twice its size by the Goldenrod’s highly-polished chrome plated, mechanical pulling machines.

Wrapping: After being pulled to the proper consistency, the candy is rolled and fed into the kiss cutting machine. 180 pieces per minute of chewy, bite-sized kisses are twisted into Goldenrod’s distinctive wrappers.
The peanut butter ones, right in the middle...

I think some drool just slipped out of my mouth.

How 'Bout Them Cowgirls

I need to get over my fear of horses. Especially since I've decided that I want to live in the country when I grow up. Acres and acres with horses and wooden fences and rolling hills. So I'll need to marry a farmer or rancher or something. Why does everyone laugh when I tell them that? Ha. They respond with "Um, but you like nice things" or "You won't be close to any shopping places!" etc. Ok, I do give off that impression I guess. BUT out of all of my shoes, (and I'll admit, I have a lot of heels and I like them all), my FAVORITE pair of shoes are my COWGIRL BOOTS!



And, there are some pretty well-off ranchers out there, right?

Every Mile a Memory

Kyle and I broke up one year ago last night. I can still recall it pretty well. I called mom at midnight, right after he left, and just cried and talked to her for a long time. It was probably one of the hardest nights of my life. The next day at work I didn't tell anyone, but I went into the bathroom a couple of times and just cried. I can't believe how fast time flies, though. He's had a couple of relationships since. I've had a couple of dates. I know there will be more falling in love, more crushes, more heartaches and breakups, etc. Some people can move right along, and others take years to get over a person. Most days I'm perfectly content with the path my life has taken. I am not perfect. I made many mistakes in our relationship. I'm trying my best to change and I feel that I have had a change of heart this past year. But, I also think I have been holding on to some grudges. I've finally forgiven myself. I've finally forgiven him. I think he's forgiven me. It's such a release to let go of those hurtful feelings. It's like the slate has been wiped clean, and I can finally move forward and be open to new things. I took the Marriage and Family Prep class at church this last semester, and I have learned so much about relationships and growing together with someone and becoming better together. A relationship isn't about one person. It's such an unselfish thing! It's about making the other person happy (which will turn around on you, and you'll be happy, too). I'm looking forward to putting what I learned into action.

Bouncing Back from Adversity

Every day, the president at work sends out an email (or sometimes three) with a thought by a certain public speaker, Lou Tice. Usually I read the title and delete it without actually opening the email. But the thought this morning caught my eye.

When adversity strikes, whether it be loss of your job, an illness, a natural disaster or when you take a big hit that really knocks you off your feet for a while, how fast you get up again depends on a number of things such as:

· How good your support network is,
· How solid your self-esteem is,
· The extent to which you believe that you can control your own destiny, and
· Your experiences of overcoming adversity in the past.

If you want to shorten the time it takes to get back on your feet, try this:

· Ask yourself how it will look when you no longer have your current problems.
· Spend time visualizing yourself in that picture and imagining how you'll feel.
· Do it over and over, day after day, week after week.
· List your strengths and past accomplishments and add to that list on a daily basis.

At the same time,

· Set and prioritize some immediate, short-term goals to improve your situation.
· Write a detailed plan of action for the top three, including day and time.

Once you've accomplished a few short-term goals, you may feel ready to do some long-term visioning and goal-setting. Finally - and this is important - no matter how much you've lost, take time to help someone else who is struggling. Even the worst adversity can be used to learn and grow.

I appreciate the line 'even the worst adversity can be used to learn and grow'. When the same negative experience happens time and time again, you'd think that we would learn from it. I think we definitely grow from it, but man! I have a hard time learning my lessons. Why do I make the same dumb decisions? How does the line go? "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." Like my post last week, I will try my best to stay positive and focus on the good. And to take the lessons that I have learned to heart...(again - because obviously they didn't sink in the first time).

As much as I would love to wallow and feel sorry for myself, listening to Patsy Cline and Celine Dion (and all of the other female crooners out there who sing about heartbreak/love/being a woman), last night was my night to do that. (Thank you, Elza and Megan, for listening to my hateful words and especially thank you to Megan, who puts up with my music and my crazy talk.) Time to bounce back and move on to bigger and better things.

Choices

Sometimes I wish I had a crystal ball that would tell me what I should do with my life. I have so many options and choices right now. School, work, move, etc. Right now I have a great job that I enjoy and I like the people I work with. The hours are great (7:30 - 2:30/3), but I'm starting to want something more. I've been thinking about PTA (Physical Therapy Assitant) school right now. PTA's start out making at least $40,000 a year, and the job openings outnumber the job applicants, so it's not too hard to find a job. The program takes about 2 years, and there are only a few schools around here that offer that program. The only problem is that they are both in the day time. I know some things have to change if I want to move forward with my life, but I'd hate to quit my job. Especially when the program starts in just about a month. That doesn't give me much time to decide. Plus finding a new job, etc. And what if I change my mind and decide that the program really isn't for me? And what if I can't find a part time job at night? I wish I could see into the future. I am grateful, though, when people don't push my about school. It drives me nuts when people always ask about it or tell me I need or should go, etc. I know these things, but I'll go when I want to. And now that I'm getting the itch to go, I still don't know what to do!
I've been in Utah for four years now. I've enjoyed my time working. But I've been living in my comfort shell for too long now. It's time to break out and do something more. I'll still stay in Utah - I love my ward and my friends and the people I know, and the convenience of where I live. Somebody just needs to invent a crystal ball or a modern-day liahona for me, or something...

25:38

Tonight, Emma made me a deal and said that if I could run 2 miles in 28 minutes, I wouldn't have to do a third mile. But of course John overheard that, and said it has to be 27 minutes. Well, of course I had to up John and I did it in 25:38 minutes. I shaved off 1:22 seconds! Haha, so about a 13 minute mile. Not great, but hey, yesterday I went 3 miles in 45 minutes. So it's a lot better. A 15 minute mile to a little less than a 13 minute mile. Ooooh yeeeeah. I'm nervous already for September, though...only 2 more months to get ready! Plus with obstacles? Man, my body already aches... :)

The Diiirty Dash

On September 25th, there is a 10k (6.2 miles) called The Dirty Dash up in Salt Lake City. Just take a look at that obstacle course! Man oh man!! I'm nervous but excited already! Emma, Elza, and I are going to do it! Bring your cameras! I started 'training' last night. 3 miles. 45 minutes. Not very good. I would walk, run, walk, run. But then again, that's only Day 1. I better start building up my resistance now, though. Emma was right - if you start out running, it's much easier to just keep going. Take breaks, but then start running again. When I stop and start walking, I hate starting to run again. So I'll try that next time.

Those obstacles are going to make it pretty rough! It's going to be muddy, sweaty, hard, dirty, long, and FUN! (At least, those are my expectations...)

Blondie

I got my hair cut and colored yesterday. I think this is the blondest I've ever been. I like it, but it takes some getting used to! Of course I didn't take any pictures of it yesterday after the stylist made it look so nice and straight...just my luck. So here's my 'signature' wavy look. :)

I Can Do It!

Have you noticed that I never finished up my 30 Day Shred saga? Well, that's because I still have 4 days left. I've had 4 days left for the last month or so. I haven't stopped working out, I just stopped doing that particular workout. I had no reason to stop. I've just been going to Emma's and using her elliptical more lately. (I have really made up my mind to buy one. I love it - so many different workout options and different lengths and strengths, etc.). Time to start saving my pennies! And I'd be saving gas to just have it at my house. Seriously. Why not spend money on something that will help me live a longer and healthier life? 45 minutes every morning sounds great. I feel so good when the timer hits 0:00. I did a Firm video yesterday - a strength training one. Man, the instructor was so annoying. And is it bad that I get annoyed when all of the girls behind her are so smiley when I just about want to die and I'm grunting like an animal? Oh well, maybe when I'm really in shape and can do any workout I will be smiling and happy, too.

So I had gained a couple of pounds back since my lowest weight. I knew I was getting lazy with the way I was eating, and even my workouts were becoming less and less. BUT I've been doing much better the past 2 weeks (hello, I even said no to banana splits at FHE on Monday. I had the banana...sans ice cream). And when I weighed myself this morning, I lost those few pounds I had gained back, plus one more! So NOW I am at my lowest weight in a long time. And it will just keep getting lower.

Because I can do it.

Being Loved and Staying Positive

I am loved. And I've been feeling it more and more lately. By people around me, by my family and friends, by members of my ward (especially the bishopric), and the love that Heavenly Father and Christ have for me. I don't think anything has changed drastically in my life. But I feel that I have had a change of heart. My heart has been full of gratitude and appreciation recently. In church, members of the Stake High Council always bring the love of the Stake Presidency when they come to visit our ward. The bishop always expresses his love for the ward members pretty much every time we see him. I think I always listened to the words, but I'm not sure if I ever really felt them before now.
I know the Lord loves me with an incredible love. I know He is always there for me and watches over me. I know that I am a daughter of God. I know that the Bishop cares for each member in the ward, and is interested in the ways we conduct our lives. He is there to help us and to give counsel and words of encouragement. He wants us to succeed.
I feel the love that family and friends have for me; helping me in the yard, fixing my car, letting me come over to their house all of the time, making me laugh, feeding me words of encouragement, giving me compliments, listening to my stories, allowing me to cry on their shoulder, inviting me to activities, telling me that I'm not crazy, hearing that I'm missed when I don't go to something, supporting my dreams, hanging out with me just to be with me, and so much more! There are so many good people in this world, and I think that too often we find or seek out only the negative in our lives.
A study found that for every ONE negative in our life, it takes ELEVEN positives to cancel it out. Can you believe that? About a month ago, I attended a conference where the public speaker spoke about 'self-talk'. (Words and thoughts we have throughout the day about ourselves.) He said to try to go just 24 hours without giving yourself any negative self-talk. You could only say and think positive words and thoughts about yourself. He then concluded "It's going to be a very quiet day." How often do we look at ourselves and think how awesome we are? Or how pretty or handsome we are? Or tell ourselves that we are smart and confident? I don't think that happens very often.
So here's to being grateful for everything in my life (even the negative experiences, because I grow from them = positive). It may be hard to be thankful for my bad experiences, but I know they only make me a stronger and better person in the grand scheme of things. This earth life is so short, why hang on to the negative experiences? Learn from them and move on. And try not to repeat the same mistakes. And that is just what I intend to do.

MoTab's Pioneer Day Commemoration Concert!

Last night I went to see a concert by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It was AWESOME. I have never seen them in concert before; I've only seen them sing in General Conference. A concert is a lot different. There's a lot of clapping, standing, whistles, etc. Everything you don't do at conference. I'm not used to that in the conference center! They sang some great songs, including "It's a Grand Night for Singing" from State Fair (probably my all time favorite movie), Battle Hymn of the Republic, Handel's Hallelujah chorus, Amazing Graze with bagpipes, Look for the Silver Lining (I had never heard this song before last night, but I really liked it), and so many more great songs.
Since the choir is commemorating 100 years of recording, there were stories stories and videos of the choir's recording history in between every few songs. Very interesting facts about how they first started recording, and how they record now, etc. Also some stories about the organ pipes and the choir travelling all over the world.

Now I've just got to find a way to get tickets for their Christmas concert! I heard that's a sell-out!