Summertime

Approved!

2010-06-06T17:15:00.003-06:00

Alex and I had our immigration interview this week and we got approved!! Hurray!

Lots of people have asked us if the interview is really like what you see in the movie "The Proposal." The answer is yes and no. Yes, they asked us questions, but they were really easy questions (Most of which we had already answered in all our paperwork. It was like she just wanted to confirm what we put down was true.) She confirmed that all the originals of our documents matched the copies of them that we had provided, and that was pretty much it! So no separate rooms, interrogating us about who sleeps on which side of the bed and what color toothbrush the other uses. Apparently, they only do that if they become suspicious of your situation or something just doesn't add up.

We are so excited for the progress that we can make now that we have gotten through the toughest part of this whole process! Thanks for all the good lucks that were sent our way. We surely feel blessed to have had everything go so smoothly for us.

New Background

2010-05-19T01:49:00.002-06:00

I decided that with all the gloominess of the past week's events (and even the weather outside!) I needed a new blog background. And what better category to search than "summer." I'm hoping we get to go to the beach once this summer. If not, I'll just have to come to my blog and pretend. =)

I've been thinking about California a lot lately. It's been so long since I lived there that it seems like a totally different life. Going back is always refreshing and it does feel a little like home, but I don't know if I'd fit there anymore. I don't really know where I fit anymore, actually.

Definitely feeling a little lost...definitely needing some beach time...

I realized this morning that I feel like this....

2010-05-15T13:15:00.002-06:00

Snap! Crackle! Pop!

The Tale of the Most Painful Week of my Life

2010-05-13T20:37:00.006-06:00

Once upon a time, a dear family member offered us a "free" washer and dryer. After helping to move it into our house on Saturday, I realized my back was sore later that night. By Sunday night I was in some pain. And by Monday morning I literally could not get out of bed. =(

Monday morning I literally hobbled to the chiropractor and discovered that I have a "massive ligament sprain" in my lower left back. I have never been in so much constant pain before in my life. I could not strand up straight and have had to use a cane to get around. Getting out of bed, putting on clothes, sitting, standing, lying down, and doing practically everything else has literally been excruciating. I had no idea some people live in so much pain. I have much more sympathy for people with back injuries now!!

So, after missing a week of work and spending hundreds of dollars at the chiropractor, I introduce our "free" washer and dryer....

The Culprit:

and My New Best Friend:

Thankfully, the washer and dryer work wonderfully, as my dear sweet husband found out doing all of our laundry this week at home!! I am starting to feel better, but still have some tough treatment ahead of me for full recovery. Wish me luck!

Our House!

2010-02-14T19:53:00.010-07:00

Our house was pretty much put together three days after we got home from our honeymoon, but it's taken me this long to get pictures of it! But now you can see all our little additions, including our fish tank, which was Alex's Christmas present. So here's the grand tour...
(and I mean GRAND)

When you walk in the front door, there's a staircase going down and one going up.

Our plant from our wedding and the letters are from our wedding too. Ok, and ALL the pictures with black frames that you see are from the wedding. Didn't want all that to go to waste, right?!

Our "black and white" wall.

When you come down the stairs, you are looking straight at our laundry room/half bathroom that has no washer and dryer (donations accepted!). We still managed to fill it with lots of stuff, including most of our shoes!

Here's the "half bathroom" part.

That door at the bottom of the stairs is a closet plus storage that goes all the way around until that door next to the t.v. I love storage!

Here's the other wall of the family room. Again, wedding leftovers. Love it!

One of my favorite rooms in our house! I love our yellow couches and our GORGEOUS painting of Rio de Janeiro that a friend painted and gave to us as a wedding present.

Close up of the painting and our office/music room. Yeah, we got it all!

Off of the family room is the dining "room." I LOVE our table...pub height, just like we wanted, and a surprise present from Alex's aunts when we got home from our honeymoon.

In about five seconds you are going to see how small our kitchen is, so this was my way of creatively handling the kitchen storage shortage. I really like how it turned out. :)

Our kitchen! It's small, but I actually really like it. A little more counter top would be nice, but we make due. The other night we have four chefs in here, and it still worked!

So we have completed our tour of downstairs. So starting at the front door again, going upstairs you see this. (Decorated for Valentine's Day.)

Our exciting hallway! HeHeHe. Off to the left is the bathroom, off to the right is the linen closet and master bedroom, and straight ahead you can see into the guest room.

Heading into the bathroom.

Again, short on storage, so we made an addition.

We've got a beach theme going on, complete with palm trees on the shower curtain.

Moving clockwise, here's the guest bedroom.

Gotta show the Brazilian pride!

Bookcase and the one closet that shall remain closed. Probably always. ;)

And our room!

One of Alex's friends gave us this bedroom set when he left for Utah State. =)

It was hazy the day I took these pictures, but out this window we have a gorgeous view of the mountains! I'll get a better picture one day.

And last but not least, our gorgeous closet! Alex made this up all by himself. It's so nice and it actually stays that way. Amazing, huh?

So that's our house. I LOVE IT! If I could, I'd spend more time than I do here every week. But it's a great place to come home to and I love making memories here.

Wedding Pictures!

2010-01-23T14:11:00.002-07:00

I've finally posted wedding pictures! It took me for-eh-va to post them on FB, so I'm just going to link from there to here. Hope you can forgive me!

Here's from the temple.

And here's the reception.

I can't thank everyone that helped with the reception enough!! My vision totally came to pass and that wouldn't have happened without all your help. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Hope you like the pictures! And if you want my help planning a wedding ever, please let me know!

Engagement Pictures--So fun!!

2009-10-04T02:01:00.007-06:00

Which is your favorite?

Las Vegas in Pictures

2009-06-20T02:27:00.006-06:00

Pensativo

2009-06-06T11:43:00.010-06:00

I'm not sure which website or affiliation has sold my hotmail address, but it has been sold, so I regularly get emails like the following [bold added]:

Subject: Business Partnership

Dear Partner

It is my pleasure to contact you as to discuss this transaction with you;
I will want to have your trust and to go into partnership investment with
your company which must be built on confidentiality between us.

I am the Contract Award Director of the South Africa Civil Aviation
Authority (SACAA, my office is in charge of awarding contract to all the
Aviation contractors building and handling of government contract
throughout the Country including construction of new hanger for Aircraft
repairs. I am in the position to transfer the sum of (TWENTY SEVEN MILLION
US DOLLARS ONLY) which I have written a memo informing the government that
this fund belongs to a contractor waiting to be paid its contract sum; I
want to invest this fund into your company. We are transferring this fund
as an investment fund from South Africa to your country.

The fund will be shared on the ratio of 60-40%; 40% for you on the
assistance rendered please note that this fund will not be investigated or
recalled in the near feature as all document to move this fund to your
account will be legally obtain. You are to send me your company name and
address with your bank details where you want the fund to be transfer to.
As soon as you agree I will send you my number to reach me. I want you to
keep this private to yourself.

Be assured that this is a legitimate fund and will be transferred
legitimately.

Thanks for your anticipated cooperation

Sincerely,
Mr. David MacLawrence
South Africa Civil Aviation Authority

Or like this:

Subject: Attention : Please Contact Mr. Ellis Bryan Concerning Your Bank Draft Of $650,000.00.‏

Good Day,

I am using this opportunity to thank you for your effort to our unfinished
transfer of fund into your account,You may not understand why this mail
came to you. But if you do not remember me, you might have received an
email from me in the past regarding a multi-million-dollar business
proposal which we never concluded. I want to inform you that I have
successfully transferred the Cheque out of the company to someone else who
was capable of assisting me in this great venture. Due to your effort,
sincerity, courage and trustworthiness you showed during the course of the
transaction I want to compensate you and show my gratitude to you with the
sum of $650,000.00. I have left an international certified bank draft for
you worth about $650,000.00 cashable anywhere in the world. My dear
friend, I will like you to contact my lawyer Mr. Ellis Bryan for the
collection of this international certified bank draft. I have authorized
him to release the international certified bank draft to you as soon as
you contact him regarding this issue.

COMPENSATION HEAD OFFICE CONTACT AGENT
CONTACT: Mr. Ellis Bryan
EMAIL: mrellisbryan2009@5fm.za.com
Tel: +234 8060570599

At the moment, I am very busy here because of the investment projects I am
having at hand. Finally,I have forwarded instruction to the finance house
on your behalf to send the bank draft to you as soon as you contact them.

Best Regards,
Mr. Jovona Green.

My first reaction is, "Really, people?!" Why am I going to believe you and your broken English that I have been chosen or won or recommended to receive some insane amount of money? Really?! It makes me furious that people get paid to write and send out these ridiculous emails.

What makes me even more upset about them is how these emails appeal to trust and legitimacy. That's like as low as it gets. To rip someone off while telling them to their face that this is legit and based on trust is just utterly disgusting. It seriously makes me want to vomit.

A few weeks ago my grandparents were scammed out of $3,900. They had been told that my brother had been in a car accident and needed the money immediately. My grandfather tried to verify the veracity of the claim, but after not being able to confirm nor deny that the accident had occurred, they sent the money. And can you believe that those filthy crooks called my grandparents back the next day asking for even more money? Again, it makes me want to vomit with disgust.

What has this world come to? I understand why God wept as he looked down on the Earth and spoke to Enoch.

Moses 7:

28 And it came to pass that the God of heaven looked upon the residue of the people, and he wept; and Enoch bore record of it, saying: How is it that the heavens weep, and shed forth their tears as the rain upon the mountains?

29 And Enoch said unto the Lord: How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?

32 The Lord said unto Enoch: Behold these thy brethren; they are the workmanship of mine own hands, and I gave unto them their knowledge, in the day I created them; and in the Garden of Eden, gave I unto man his agency;

33 And unto thy brethren have I said, and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father; but behold, they are without affection, and they hate their own blood;

40 Wherefore, for this shall the heavens weep, yea, and all the workmanship of mine hands.

The more I'm out in the "real world," the more I realize how much I want nothing to do with it, how power truly corrupts, how pervasive selfishness is, how honesty puts you at a disadvantage, in every sector, in every organization, even in our relationships with others. Why must we "play the game"? Why can't we just be open and honest? We could get so much more done. We could help so many more people. We could become such better people.

Luckily, I am so blessed to have someone that I love and trust who is willing to comfort me when my heart hurts for all that is sad in the world. Without him, I'm not sure I'd still have faith in the goodness of humanity.

Living in Sin

2009-06-02T22:38:00.005-06:00

Nice title, huh? Since Sunday, I've been living in The Silver Legacy Hotel and Casino in Reno, NV. I'm here attending a conference on information and referral. The conference has been so-so, but the experience of living in this place has been quite interesting.

It's odd how quickly such a foreign place became home. Not just foreign as in a different city, state, time zone, but foreign as in gambling, alcohol, and smoking. And yet, it's already really familiar. I know my way around, I know the best place to get breakfast, and I even know some shortcuts to get around. Anyway, it's not a very deep realization, but it was one that I definitely had this afternoon as I was going to meet people for a wine and cheese tasting. (Don't worry, I'm not LIVING sin....just living IN it. And actually, if they don't know any better, it's not really sin. I just don't want you to think that that's how I classify things. I used that description more for the metaphor I used at the beginning of this post. Ok, I'm shutting up now.)

Needless to say, I'm looking forward to going home and being near the mountains and sleeping in my own bed. And Alex will be home on Monday, so that will make Utah even better. =)

Photo Shoot

2009-05-24T19:23:00.004-06:00

So a couple of weeks ago, Alex and I went up Provo Canyon to one of our favorite parks. We had a good time taking pictures of each other. It's always fun to just be together! Here are some of my favorites...

We're both pretty photogenic...I think our kids are going to be pretty lucky! But I think Alex is more photogenic than I am. Or maybe I'm just a better photographer...hehe. Anyway, here's to a fun afternoon in the canyon!

Text from my sweetheart

2009-05-01T00:16:00.001-06:00

"I'm sorry that you have a long meeting. Maybe one 'I love you' from me will help."

It sure did. =)

Fresh Start!

2009-04-26T19:40:00.005-06:00

Here's to my first post of 2009! Yes, I know. I am very behind. But hey, I've been living life, so I'm not going to apologize too profusely. I am going to try to be better, however, and post something at least once a week. (Not teaching anymore should free up at least enough time for that!) So I hope you are looking forward to my fresh start.

The title of this post is also in reference to my new haircut! Nicole cut 12 inches off! (And gave me one of my most favorite haircuts of all time!!) I love how light it is (as in it's not heavy) and it just feels fabulous! Almost all of the blond got cut off, so this Saturday I'm going back to get highlights. Ok, ok, I'll stop yakking so you can see the pictures...
If you know me, you know I love to learn, so here are the lessons I learned from this most fabulous haircut:

1. Trust yourself. I have been wanting to cut my hair since Christmas, but almost every time I mentioned it to someone they would say, "No! Your hair is so long. Don't cut it." And I listened to them every time, even while I was not enjoying having such long hair.

2. Surround yourself with supportive people. When I told Alex I wanted to cut my hair, he didn't give me the aforementioned reaction. He told me that if I wanted to cut it, I should go for it. He didn't even ask me one "Are you sure?". (Yes, that's where that period belongs, for any of you who are wondering) The night before getting it cut he asked me how I was feeling about it, and I told him I was nervous. He gently reminded me that this is what I have wanted to do for months, and that it would turn out just fine. (This coming from the person who "likes my hair the way that I like it, but prefers it long." I'm so lucky to be with someone who is so amazing!) And he was right! (P.S. Anamae was also really supportive--thanks Mae!)

3. Sometimes doing just a little bit more will help someone in a big way. The cut that I originally wanted would have required cutting 10 inches of hair off, but if I went up to 12, I could donate it to Locks of Love. I thought about it for about 20 seconds and then decided to go for it. And here's part 2 to this lesson...I think the cut turned out better because of taking off the 2 more inches!

4. Change is good!

And to finish off this post, below is a photo of yet another fresh start! Brandon graduated from the Marriott School this past week with his Bachelor's and Master's degree in Information Systems. He and Megan will soon be off to San Antonio where he'll work for USAA. I'm so proud of him and all his hard work. I truly treasure our many TNRB moments and will miss "working" in such close proximity to him. Thanks for always being willing to help when I would call you and start the conversation with, "Hey, are you in the Tanner building?"! You are going to go far, Brandon! I love you very much and I can't wait to see all the good you will do!

Warmth in the Cold

2008-12-21T17:53:00.005-07:00

Hi, what few followers I might possibly have left since it's almost been an entire paleontological era since I last wrote.

I've actually come on here to post something quite a few times, but every time I do, I see my post about Fábio, and I realize that what I was going to blog about is trivial and somewhat childish. I mean, sure it's ridiculous that our ward chorister doesn't let us sing Christmas hymns until the Sunday before Christmas. Who knows, you might want to hear the story about the American woman that called United Way of Utah County's 2-1-1 number from France to ask how to call a French cell phone (no joke!). And maybe you'd like to debate the disdain I feel for the snow (yes, complete and utter disdain). But that's all pretty petty. So I'll spare you. But I will share an uplifting experience I had at work on Friday.

Utah County's Sub for Santa program runs through United Way of Utah County. As you can imagine, we are unbelieveably busy right now. Since campaigns have slowed down, I was asked to work up at the front of the office to help with the many in-kind donations and Sub for Santa inquiries and donations.

As an older lady approached our door, I noticed that she was having some trouble navigating the ice, so I jumped up to go help her in. As I was holding open the door for her, another older woman drove up in front of the office and motioned me to come over to her car. She asked me if I worked there. I confirmed that I did and asked what I could do for her. She wanted to make a donation to Sub for Santa, and wondered if she could make it from her car. I told her that I'd be happy to help her and that while she wrote her check, I would go into the office to get the donation form.

When I came out with the form, she told me that all week she had worried about how she was going to get to our door with the ice and snow on the ground, and when she pulled up, there I was waiting for her. I told her the Lord must be watching out for her, finished filling out the donation form, and thanked her for her very generous donation.

As I walked back in from the cold, I was grateful for this small opportunity to be an instrument in the Lord's hands. I was also grateful to witness not only this woman's generousity to help children in her community, but also her incredible amount of faith. Like most of the country, Friday was a very, very stormy day, and without knowing how she would make it to our front door (sound like anyone you've heard of?), she made her way through the snow to generously give of herself.

Thank goodness there are still people out there like this--I was beginning to doubt.

Yes on 8

2008-11-02T15:12:00.002-07:00

There are many reasons why I would vote Yes on 8 if I were still in California, but here are some reasons why everyone should be concerned. Last I checked, judges SHOULD NOT be able to take away the people's voice.

Thanks to my good friend, Charlie, for posting this on his blog.

Fábio Gomes Cooper

2008-10-18T16:28:00.003-06:00

Last night I found out that one of my most favorite elders has already left this earth. Fábio Gomes Cooper was killed instantly in a car accident on October 15th. The news reported that it appears he lost control of his car and hit a tree. No one else was involved in the accident.

My heart broke when I heard the news. Fábio is one of my absolute favorite elders and favorite people of all time. He always lit up the room as soon as he walked in. His smile was contagious. He could talk to anyone and make anyone feel great about life. Fábio is amazing.

Of course, the loss of a son, brother, or friend is very difficult, but my heart goes out to Fábio's fiancee, Patrícia. Losing a fiancé in such a tragic accident is almost incomprehensible. They were to be married in just two weeks. I remember talking with Fábio soon after he broke up with a girlfriend once and he was so sad. He wasn't sad that he didn't have someone to love him, though. He was sad that he didn't have someone to love. He was so anxious to make someone happy forever. That was Fábio. And then he found Patrícia. It's easy to tell from these photos (taken at their engagement party) that these two were very much in love.

It's sobering to remember that we really don't have control over how much time we have on Earth. And that no matter how much we love someone, we can't save them from what life has in store for them. However, that's all the more reason to love completely and fully and cherish every moment you have.

I am so glad Alex is coming for Christmas. For me, the hardest part of this long distance relationship is sometimes thinking that Alex and I aren't cherishing every moment because we are still apart. It's silly for me to think that because I know how much we do love and cherish each other. It's just hard to still be waiting to start our married life together. But I know that day is finally nearing. And when it finally comes, I know I will be thinking about Fábio and Patrícia, and I will cherish every second of that day for them.

Third time's a charm!

2008-10-16T19:35:00.003-06:00

So I've been living in this room for a little over a month and I think I've just figured out my room. It's a square room, so it's a little tricky to figure out, but I think now it's just right. ;) Here's the progression:

Round One:
One full bed, one bookcase (on the wall at the foot of the bed), one dresser, one baker's rack.

Round Two:
One full bed, TWO bookcases (the other one is still on the wall at the foot of the bed), one dresser, one baker's rack.

Round Three:
One full bed, two bookcases, one dresser, one baker's rack, one DESK, and one TV.

So, now pretty much everything I own is in this 10'x10' room plus closet. Looks like I'm ready for island living! haha. Anyway, I'm pretty pleased with my final set-up and I'm enjoying it right now!

Merry Christmas to ME and ALEX!

2008-10-15T22:15:00.004-06:00

Alex is coming for Christmas!! Woohooooooooooooooo!! I'm so excited to see him and to just do fun, FREE things together. (Yeah, airfare, especially international airfare, at Christmas just isn't fun to buy.)

We want to have a get together while he's here so everyone can meet him. So consider yourself invited! We'll let you know when and where as soon as we know (check back in December!)

Hope everyone is enjoying the fall!

Saudades

2008-10-01T22:38:00.002-06:00

Most people understand that there are words in some languages that just don't translate to others. Saudades is one of those words. In Portuguese, you don't say you miss someone; you say you have saudades...a rough translation is "longing"...for them. Anyway, saudades are a daily part of my life these days. I miss Alex so much. One of the few good things about being apart is realizing how much you love someone. I know we'll treasure every day that we'll have together, since we've had to spent so many of them apart. For now, we just keep working our hardest toward being together as soon as we can make that happen. I just hope and pray it's sooner rather than later.

I love you, amor.

<3

Springville Room

2008-09-21T15:00:00.004-06:00

I'm finally back online! Thank goodness...I was starting to go insane. So, let me show you around the place. Ok, actually, I'm just going to show you my room and bathroom for now. I'll put more pictures up when we get the rest of the place in order.

So if you pretend you stand in the middle of my room and turn clockwise, this is what you'll see.

And this is the bathroom...lighthouses, again!

Anamae and I have yet to set a date for a house-warming party, but as soon as we do I'll post that on here!

Summer Break

2008-09-19T11:58:00.001-06:00

Sorry for the Summer break...hehe...I'm moved into my new place in Springville, but we still don't have the Internet...grrr. Hopefully we will soon!

Road Rage Release

2008-08-30T18:15:00.006-06:00

I've been thinking about this post all week long. During my hour commute each way, I have made quite a few observations about the driving skills of my fellow man. In the hopes of not exploding at someone on the road, here are Summer's rules for driving.

Rule #1
If you want to drive 65 mph DO NOT drive in the fast lane. That goes for the carpool lane as well. And any lane except the slow lane. Actually, if you want to drive 65 mph, just don't get on the freeway.

Rule #2
Use your rear-view mirror!! It has come to my attention that a large percentage of drivers out there only use their rear-view mirror when they are backing up. When you are driving on the freeway, PLEASE, every five minutes at least, glance in your rear-view mirror and see if there are 5 cars lined up behind you. If there are, speed up or get out of the way.

Rule #3
If you can't manage to follow Rule #2, when you see four cars pass you one after the other, GET OUT OF THE WAY. I am convinced there are more accidents out there because of slow drivers than fast drivers.

Rule #4
When the on-ramps are metered, that doesn't mean you get to take a quick cat-nap before getting on the freeway. Those lights change fast. They alternate from one lane to the other. There are no surprises, people. Pay attention and DON'T miss your chance.

Rule #5
I believe that Rule #4 also applies to surface street stoplights. PAY ATTENTION people. Especially if you are in a left turning lane. A green arrow means go!

Rule #6
I'm not opposed to using cell phones while driving, but only if you can do it without being stupid. Like Utah liscense plate 529 TGN. He had a hard time with Rule #5 and I graciously helped remind him that a green arrow means go by giving him many long honks, but Mr. Cell Phone was so enthralled in his conversation that he sat through the ENTIRE green arrow.

Rule #7
If your changing lanes requires the upcoming car into who's lane you just entered to slow down, DO NOT change lanes. Only change lanes if it will not impact the speed and flow of traffic. Sometimes this requires accelerating while changing lanes. This is possible and completely legal.

Rule #8
Don't break just for fun. I think many drivers mistakenly believe that they must either be accelerating or breaking. If you need to slow down, try taking your foot off the accelerator pedal and see what that does. I guarantee at least 50% of the time that will slow you down enough and you don't need to break. (Saves you gas too!)

Rule #9
If you are driving, you don't get to look. I'm sorry. It's part of the price you pay as being the driver. If there is something interesting on the side of the road, or an accident, or Britney Spears, I don't care. If you are driving, you don't get to look. Please, just keep your eyes on the road and continue driving.

Rule #10
When entering the freeway, you should be at freeway speed by the time you merge into traffic. Accelerate, people!

I think that's it for now. I'd love to hear any of your driving rules and/or driving pet peeves.

Happy Driving! (And follow the rules!!)

Sunday Testimony

2008-08-24T20:39:00.003-06:00

I have to thank my good friend, Phil, for the shout-out he gave my Sunday testimonies on his blog. It has given me the push to keep it going.

So my testimony today is about something that I am still gaining a testimony about...patience. I know that this is a hard one for a lot of us. Lately, it seems like it's my life theme. For those of you who know my story, you know I've been patiently waiting for a lot of things to come to pass. Most especially, being sealed to Alex in the temple. In Preach My Gospel it says,

"Patience is the capacity to endure delay, trouble, opposition, or suffering without becoming angry, frustrated, or anxious. It is the ability to do God's will and accept His timing. When you are patient, you hold up under pressure and are able to face adversity calmly and hopefully. Patience is related to hope and faith--you must wait for the Lord's promised blessings to be fulfilled."

Like I said, this is one I'm still working on, but I know that God knows each one of us, our circumstances, our hopes, dreams, and weaknesses, and He will help us find our way. Sometimes, we just have to wait a little longer than we had hoped...=)

Catching Up

2008-08-24T20:10:00.007-06:00

It's been a while since I've posted anything on here. An hour commute each way sucks a lot of my not-working time. I'm too tired to write much, so I think I'll do it in pictures with explanations.
This is my desk at work. Notice I said desk, and not office. My parents sent me those beautiful flowers on my first day. So sweet!

I call this an experiment in human nature and powerful branding. This was our booth at a school district benefits fair. See the little, tiny sign that I marked with a blue arrow? It says, "Thank you Costco for your generous donation," using the Costco logo. Do you know what the #1 question asked when someone first approached our table? "When is the Costco in ___ going to be open?" or "How much is it for a membership?" Keep in mind that absolutely everything else on the table, besides the little sign, says United Way all over it. And don't forget the three HUGE signs in the background. I just thought it was funny.

This is the condo in Springville that my friend just bought! Hopefully we'll get to move in with a month or so. I haven't got to see it, but the virtual tour looks really nice. Check it out.

Alex is doing great in school and work and church. He spoke in sacrament meeting and taught the Elders' Quorum today. He's also the new executive secretary for his ward. They keep him busy! He's also singing in a special choir for a new chapel dedication in his stake and participates in a forró class twice a week. I have no idea how he keeps going!

We moved Brandon and Megan into their apartment yesterday, so they officially have their own place for the first time since being married. I'm sure they're thrilled.

Well, I think that's it. I've got to get to bed soon so I can wake up for my early commute. (I seriously have no idea how my mom has done this for two years.)

Have a great week, everyone!

United Way, Here I Come!!

2008-08-08T14:25:00.004-06:00

If anyone has been wondering where I've been all week, I've been on a serious job hunt. More like a job harvest, actually. I had to seriously consider three really good opportunities. For a variety of reasons, United Way won out and I'll be starting on Monday! My official title is Business Relations Manager. I will work on the Resource Development team, and will be giving campaign presentations to United Way's business partners. I will also help maintain and grow those relationships, as well as do a bunch of other stuff that I don't know yet! =) I'm really excited for the opportunity to work with such great people and for such a great cause. And I get to move back to Provo, which I'm actually really happy about. So that's my news!

Sunday Testimony

2008-08-03T23:17:00.003-06:00

Up until three minutes ago, I wasn't sure what I was going to share for my Sunday testimony, but I just received such a sweet email from my greatest BYU mentor. She saw Daniel...a.k.a Elder Barrick...at the Provo temple last week. She said he caught her attention because he was just glowing and looked so happy. Obviously, I loved hearing about Daniel, but my testimony is about the act of kindness Kristie showed to me and my family by letting us know.

What happened tonight is what members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have come to know as a "tender mercy." The term comes from a scripture found in the Book of Mormon, that says: "But behold, I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance" (1 Nephi 1:20). One of the living apostles, Elder David A. Bednar, gave an address on this scripture that helps us come to better understand it. You can find the talk here, if you'd like.

http://www.lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,49-1-520-33,00.html

Elder Bednar explains what he means by a tender mercy, when he says, "I believe I have come to better understand that the Lord's tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving-kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ." And how do we qualify for tender mercies? He says, "Faithfulness, obedience, and humility invite tender mercies into our lives, and it is often the Lord's timing that enables us to recognize and treasure these important blessings."

I encourage everyone to read Elder Bendar's address, whether it's for the first time or the fiftieth time. It's a wonderful talk. I am so grateful for the tender mercies that have been bestowed upon me throughout my life. Kristie's email was truly a tender mercy as I have especially missed Daniel this weekend. I'm so glad he chose to serve a mission and that he is so happy as she described. I know that God knows us each individually. The tender mercies he bestows upon us all are proof of that knowledge, and more importantly, the love that He has for each one of us, His children.

He's in!

2008-07-28T12:01:00.003-06:00

Alex passed the vestibular to go to Michelangelo Faculdade in Brasilia to study business administration. It's not an easy test to pass, and he did it on the first try! Congrats, amor!

Randy Pausch's Passing

2008-07-25T17:16:00.004-06:00

This posting is another celebration of an influential life. Randy Pausch, most recently known for his Last Lecture, died today. If you haven't watching his lecture, I highly recommend it. In fact, I'll provide it for you right here:

I loved these lines:

Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.
Brick walls are there for a reason: They let us prove how badly we want things.
Wait, and people will surprise and impress you.
Respect authority while questioning it.
I don't know how to not have fun.
How to get people to help you:
1. tell them the truth
2. be earnest
3. apologize when you screw up
4. focus on others, not yourself

I love learning from others, and I'm so grateful for those who are courageous enough to share their experiences.

Maxima Madness

2008-07-24T14:50:00.002-06:00

So in my last blog about my wonderfully fabulous missionary brother, Daniel, I mentioned something about driving the Maxima in the backyard. One day last week my dad asked us to get some good pictures of the Maxima so we could post ads on Craig's List and KSL and such. So washed the car and "detailed" it. Daniel had mentioned that he had always wanted to see if he could drive a car into the backyard (our garage has a back garage door too!) and he thought we could take some pretty cool pictures back there. I responsibly weighed the pros and cons and then declared, "Let's do it!" I loved the, "Really?!" look on his face. So we did it! And he was right--the pictures turned out great! Drumroll, please. I present to you...the Maxima!

Just $2650!! And, if you like the backyard, the house is for sale too! Tell your friends!

Never knew...

2008-07-24T01:48:00.005-06:00

...that sending a missionary off was so dang hard! I mean, I have sent off friends and uncles on missions, but since Brandon and I left on our missions on the exact same day (and plane!), I had no idea what it would be like to send Daniel on a mission. It's hard! It doesn't help that we have been living at home together for the past couple of months and have spent practically all day, everyday together, but I wouldn't trade that time together for anything. I'm especially glad we took advantage of the time we did have and did some fun things, like go to the geologic park and driving the Maxima in the backyard. Just running errands is fun with Daniel. I always learn new things when we chat, and I love laughing with him. I don't want this to turn into a eulogy, but I just have to let you all know how grateful I am to have a brother like Daniel. I love him very much and I will truly miss him. But I know he is engaged in the highest of causes, and I couldn't part with him for anything less. Please keep Elder Barrick in your prayers. I love you, Daniel, my bud!

Early Monday Thought

2008-07-21T00:35:00.002-06:00

In my Relief Society a couple of weeks ago, we studied this talk by Elder Bednar called The Character of Christ. It's a fabulous talk, and we had a pretty good discussion about what it means to have character. Most of the women answered something to the effect that character is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. They equated character with what we do. And, in a way, I think they are right. Here's part of what Elder Bednar said that supports that character has a lot with what we do:

It is interesting to me that one of the central elements of the word character is created by the letters A, C, and T. As we already have seen in the examples of Christ's character from the New Testament, the nature and consistency of how one acts reveals in a powerful way his or her true character.

I would suggest, however, that we look beyond how someone acts in a given situation. I believe that how someone acts after a particularly challenging situation in which they "failed" can actually be a truer measure of character. So you didn't act in the way you know to be a better way. What do you do? Do you just shrug it off and pretend it didn't happen? Do you blame someone else? Do you deny you acted how you did? I suggest that the person who "fails" at a moral challenge, but who feels remorse and commits to improving themselves is truly someone with character. Even after multiple failures. Especially after multiple failures. To not give up...to endure to the end...is a measure of character that I think is often overlooked by us. God, of course, knows the whole story. :)

Find some time to read this talk. I love how Elder Bednar explains character and charity and how the Savior is the perfect example of these two traits.

Sunday Testimony

2008-07-20T23:36:00.004-06:00

My testimony today is really simple. We are children of God. We all have inherited divine qualities from our Heavenly Father. He loves us perfectly. He tries us differently. He is our judge. Let us love one another.

Daniel's Un-Farewell

2008-07-13T20:22:00.007-06:00

I just wanted to invite anyone that would like to come listen to Daniel's un-farewell talk this Sunday, July 20th at 1:00 p.m. For more details, see Elder Barrick's blog at www.elderbarrick.blogspot.com/

After Daniel leaves, I'll be keeping his blog up to date with his letters and pictures, so ya'll come back now!

Sunday Testimony

2008-07-13T17:51:00.006-06:00

Today I had the opportunity to give a talk in my singles ward, so I thought for my testimony this week I'd share some of the quotes I used. Since Pioneer Day is coming up (July 24th) the bishopric asked me to speak on the pioneers.

On why we should continue to study the pioneers:

“It is not enough to study or reenact the accomplishments of our pioneers. We need to identify the great, eternal principles they applied to achieve all they achieved for our benefit and then apply those principles to the challenges of our day. In that way we honor their pioneering efforts, and we also reaffirm our heritage and strengthen its capacity to bless our own posterity and “those millions of our Heavenly Father’s children who have yet to hear and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Dallin H. Oaks, “Following the Pioneers,” Ensign, Nov 1997, 72

On hard work:

“We are what we are as a people because our ancestors were not afraid of honest, hard work. Our forefathers understood the necessity of it; sheer survival demanded it. A common ingredient among all successful people is an understanding of what constitutes paying the price of success. Basic in that formula of paying the price is an inner gift of determination that “I’ll do whatever it takes.” That means, “I’ll work hard, with integrity, to achieve my goal. Hard work is a blessing of God. It involves going after it “with all your heart, might, mind and strength.” (D&C 4:2.) That alone is the difference between the average and the excellent.”

F. David Stanley, “The Principle of Work,” Ensign, May 1993, 44

On commitment to the gospel:

“In the spirit of that description I say to our returned missionaries—men and women who have made covenants to serve the Lord and who have already served Him in the great work of proclaiming the gospel and perfecting the Saints—are you being true to the faith? Do you have the faith and continuing commitment to demonstrate the principles of the gospel in your own lives, consistently? You have served well, but do you, like the pioneers, have the courage and the consistency to be true to the faith and to endure to the end?”

Dallin H. Oaks, “Following the Pioneers,” Ensign, Nov 1997, 72

I have loved living in Utah and getting to know more about the heritage of the Church. I am grateful for the pioneers and I am truly reaping the benefits of their sacrifice, both living in the great valley that they established and living the gospel that the came here to protect. The Church of Jesus Christ has been established on the earth again. President Thomas S. Monson is a living prophet who possesses the priesthood keys and authority to direct the great work. There are 12 living apostles who are special witnesses of Jesus Christ, just like Peter, Matthew, John, and others. I know these things to be true.

GMAT Genius

2008-07-10T11:01:00.003-06:00

No, not me, but I just had to post about my amazingly intelligent brother, Daniel. So earlier this year I was studying to take the GMAT (don't ask me why) and I kind of off-handedly suggested that Daniel should study and take the GMAT in the time before he leaves for the MTC and Tennessee (hey, that rhymes!). Well, he took the suggestion and ran with it. He studied really hard with one goal in mind...beat his brother's score of 700. Now, 700 is pretty dang good (Brandon, you are amazingly intelligent too!!) so that was a pretty big goal. But, he has his eyes set on Harvard, so 700 is actually the minimum score to have a shot at a MBA spot. Anyway, long story short, the kid whipped out an INCREDIBLE

Congrats, Daniel! And don't forget that's he's 19! In fact, when one of the test proctors saw his birthday on his ID she said, "Can I ask you a question?" Daniel: "Sure" Proctor lady: "What are you doing here? I've never seen someone so young take this test." HeHe. And I'm sure she doesn't see too many 710s either!! Anyway, since I couldn't brag about my horribly low score (and no, I'm not being modest!) I've got to brag about the HIGHEST SCORE of the family!

Update

2008-07-08T22:26:00.002-06:00

The searchers found Craig's body this morning. I'm a little surprised at how much this event has affected me. I really feel the loss of this brother of mine that I never even met. His family has established a website, if you're interesting in learning more. http://www.craig-decker.com/

I also got word today that one of my friends from Belém, who is only 16, has had to go through the experience of her boyfriend committing suicide. I am heartbroken for her, and I also feel the loss of, again, another brother. He is a beautiful child of God, and I am so thankful that for some reason I am able to truly see that when I look at his picture. My heart aches to know how much he must have suffered for this to be the result. I have been there before and it is a place that I hope few people ever have to visit. But I understand how it so easily becomes the only choice.

I don't mean for this to be a sad post. I am just overwhelmed at how much I want everyone to truly feel the love that our Heavenly Father has for each one of us. Each one of us is a child of God. I will be forever grateful to understand this.

Craig Decker

2008-07-07T16:56:00.005-06:00

Some of you may have heard that Craig has been missing since Saturday when he dove into Utah Lake and never resurfaced. I have never met Craig, but I thought I'd share some of his thoughts that I've come across as I've learned more about him. Here's a blog post he wrote in early 2007. I'll bold the parts that I especially enjoyed.

"I haven’t always been left handed. In fact, I still get weirded out when I look down at the stub where my right hand used to be! Christmas vacation this year took me on a road trip to Mexico. Question: Where can you buy better quality fireworks than in Mexico? (Answer: anywhere.) On New Year’s Eve I lit a harmless looking firework at midnight, and a moment later I looked down and realized that my hand took the early bus back to heaven! "

All joking aside, I have learned some powerful lessons through that experience. (Surprisingly, most of them have very little to do with firework safety!) Although what occurred was tragic, I believe what I have learned has made me a better person and will continue to bless the lives of many individuals.

1. Don’t buy fireworks in Mexico!

2. There are some things in life that we simply cannot control. (If I hadn’t blown off my hand, some other poor person would have.) It’s okay. As we let go of those things quickly and completely, we become free.

3. “Men are that they might have joy”! Life is good. Laughter heals. Life is funny. There are funny things that happen every day even in the worst of situations. Bad days make good stories. There is a time to laugh and a time to cry. It’s funny that laughter and tears come together so easily.

4. The atonement of Christ brings peace and healing “that surpass all understanding”. We come to know ourselves and we come to know God through our trials. We are surrounded by miracles. When we trade self pity for humility, our eyes are opened to see them.

5. There is so much life to live! Why waste time worrying and stressing about inconsequential things? Spend time doing what matters most—the things that bring the most light and joy to life. Enjoy the ride.

6. Challenges make us stronger and better. With creativity and patience, we are capable of much more than we ever imagined. Our perspective determines our reality. (There is nothing that quite compares with the feeling of accomplishment gained from flossing with one hand for the first time!)

7. We can always lift others, no matter how bad of a situation we are in. It is a divine gift. The only true and lasting joy comes from forgetting ourselves and lifting those around us through love and service.

"I would never wish another person to lose their hand. But I hope my experiences and lessons make a difference in your life. Wahoo for the resurrection!!"

Craig made several YouTube videos about how to do things with one hand, like tying shoes and opening jars. I loved what he said at the end of one of his videos, "Remember, you can do it. You just have to find a way." What an attitude! I also liked this quote from his blog when he tells his story about becoming one-handed. "On the day I got my first hook I had a big pirate party with everyone I knew. If life gives you lemons, make lemonade. If life gives you a hook, become a pirate enthusiast!"

Craig's family will be in my prayers as they continue to search for their wonderful son and brother. You can read Craig's blog at http://cddoj.blogspot.com/. Check out his YouTube videos too.

Sunday Testimony

2008-07-06T22:32:00.005-06:00

Hi everyone! Happy Sunday!

If you'll bear with me, I've decided that every Sunday I'm going to post a short testimony about what I know to be true regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ. Since this is my first week, I thought I'd start by sharing a short video about the core beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask or visit www.mormon.org

Surfing on Utah Lake

2008-07-03T12:39:00.006-06:00

My dear friend, Anamae, invited us to go out on the boat with her and we had a fabulous time! Here are some pictures and video of Daniel and I tearing up Utah Lake. I got up pretty much, but didn't stay up long enough to get a picture. I did have some fun boogie boarding though.

Daniel enthusiastically taking his turn at being the flagman.

Here Daniel shows how to get up on the surfboard.
(The second time around, he always popped up really fast, but I didn't get any video of that. Sorry!)

Here Daniel gets into the wave and surfs it solo for a bit. Woohoo!

And here I am tearing it up as a boogie boarder.

Thanks Anamae and family for taking us out!! It was a blast to hang out with you and Nicole, Nate, Carly, and Tiffany!!

More Words of Wisdom

2008-07-01T13:48:00.004-06:00

Not that an animated film rivals the scriptures, but I liked this line from Kung Fu Panda...

Words of Wisdom

2008-06-30T11:31:00.003-06:00

I came across these scriptures today during my scripture study...

Philippians 2:1-3

1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

I often wonder what this world would be like if we could fulfill these words. Wouldn't it be wonderful it we could love each other and give each other the benefit of the doubt, esteeming others better than ourselves? These scriptures remind me of a quote given by Elder Marvin J. Ashton:

"Perhaps the greatest charity comes when we are kind to each other, when we don't judge or categorize someone else, when we simply give each other the benefit of the doubt or remain quiet. Charity is accepting someone's differences, weaknesses, and shortcomings; having patience with someone who has let us down; or resisting the impulse to become offended when someone doesn't handle something the way we might have hoped. Charity is refusing to take advantage of anybody's weakness and being willing to forgive someone who has hurt us. Charity is expecting the best of each other."

Charity never faileth. Let's try to help everyone remember that.

REJECTED!

2008-06-23T09:00:00.003-06:00

So for those of you who are keeping up with my PhD plans...they're not anymore. This email came today...

Don't worry. No tears over this rejection. It's actually kind of nice that they made the decision for me. I was feeling like it wasn't the right fit, so they confirmed it for me. On to the next!!

Have a great day everyone!

Time to Shape Up

2008-06-19T22:24:00.007-06:00

Hi to my loyal readership (both of you)! Well, I've tried many a times, but this time I'm going to succeed! I've really got to get in shape. I'm tired of missing out on a lot of great things because I'm just too BIG to really enjoy them. I found a fabulous website that's really easy to use to help track both nutrition and fitness. You can access it at www.sparkpeople.com. It's really interactive...here, I'll show you...

So here's the nutrition page. You can have it give you meal plans (which you can adjust--they even provide alternative ideas if you don't like what the plan puts out) or you can just enter in what you ate. It has the calories, carbs, fat, and protein of most foods (you can add it in manually if they don't) so it can keep a running tab for you at the bottom. Pretty cool, huh? When you personalize it, underneath the running tab it will include what your target range is. Up on top you can see you can also keep track of your water. Which reminds me--I need to drink two more glasses!

This is an example of the fitness page. You can adjust this one to fit your goals too. Then there is a page for other goals they help you make, a community for support, you can create nutrition or fitness reports, there's a planner and a journal too. And this is all FREE! Way cool.

So I found something else to help me kick off my successful weight-loss efforts. Obviously, a big part of shaping up is exercising, and I wanted to find something that would work for me. I thought a lot about swimming, since it's very low impact on the knees (which mine would appreciate), but I also know that propinquity is a high factor in fitness success. What does propinquity mean? It means how close it is to you. I just read a great book called Influencer (great read) and it actually talked about weight loss. It said that one of the key factors in whether or not people exercise is how close their "exercising" is close to where they are. Hence...

I bought a Gazelle Edge Elliptical Trainer! (No, that's not me in the picture...yet!!) I did my research and I got it today. Just $84.96 at your local Wal-Mart! Daniel and I put it together tonight and it's pretty sweet. I'm really excited about it. Anyway, I just want all two of you to know that I'm going to do this and you can check up on me all the time! I can't afford a personal trainer, but feel free to take that role upon yourself to keep me going.

This turned out to be a rather long blog...wish me success!! =)

The Elephant Video

2008-06-15T21:25:00.002-06:00

Here it is...finally!!

It starts right away, so pay attention. Andrea started filming after the first charge, but you can see how he comes back for us again. Make sure your sound is turned on so you can hear his screech.

Yes, I'm laughing. No one could believe that I was laughing when we were about to be trampled! But that's what I do when I'm nervous...I laugh! Anyway, hope you enjoyed it. I sure did!

An Update and the Loot

2008-06-14T17:00:00.009-06:00

So you all know that I got home from Mozambique this week, so I thought I'd give you a quick update and show off the loot that I brought back.

Things are going really well. I got right back into the swing of things to try to avoid any jet lag. I went down to Provo for an appointment, and I took advantage of the beautiful day that it was and visited Squaw Peak and South Forth Canyon Park--two of my favorite places in Provo Canyon. It's hard to see how beautiful it was by pictures, but I tried.

Friday I was back down in Provo for a PhD interview at BYU. The interview was so-so. I still don't think I've found the right program. I think I'm going to take my own advice and take a year to look at all my PhD options and then start another round of applications. If it's what I really want to do!

While I was in Provo I was able to visit with four of my MPA professors. I love them and miss them so much! I got a ton of work to do from one of them, so hooray for being employed full-time from home for people I love!!

Next up is finding a job either here, in Houston, or in Brasília. Alex and I are trying to keep all of our options open right now. We don't feel super strongly about any of the options right now, but we're thinking that's because the right opportunity hasn't come to pass yet. So we're trying to be really, really patient, keeping moving forward in all directions, and praying to find the right place for us to start out.

Ok, so I promised pictures of my loot. Like in Ghana, there is some amazing woodwork that goes on in Mozambique.

My favorite is my nativity.

One of my dearest friends has inspired me to collect nativities from around the world, so now I have one from Ghana, Mozambique, Mexico, and the states. Kinda lame that I don't have one from Brazil yet, huh? Oh well, there will be plenty of time to get that one. =)

Well, I have to admit I have thoroughly enjoyed this Saturday of NOT running around like a crazy person. I think it's my first Saturday like that for a long time. Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Feliz Dias dos Namorados!

2008-06-11T23:32:00.004-06:00

Today is Valentine's Day in Brazil so I just want to tell Alex (and anyone else that reads this!) how much I love him. Even though we are currently a millions miles apart, there is no one that I have ever felt closer to. Here are some pictures of us and the good times we've shared. I love you, amor!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Soooooooooo long

2008-06-10T21:35:00.003-06:00

Here's a rundown of my last 48 hours:

11:30 a.m. Leave Care for Life headquarters in Beira, Mozambique
11:45 a.m. Arrive at Beira airport
1:00 p.m. Take off for Johannesburg, South Africa
2:35 p.m. Land at Johannesburg
3ish-5:30ish p.m. Kill time including reading, buying food at a café (which included Andrea getting hit on by Ben, or was it Pedro?), going through an "additional" security check at our gate
6:00 p.m. Take off for Dakar, Senegal
2:41 a.m. Land at Dakar
3ish-5ish a.m. (Mozambique time) Sit on tarmac while plane goes through two security screens, refueling and boarding new passengers
5ish a.m. Take off for Washington D.C.
7 a.m. (Washington D.C. time) Land in D.C.
7:15 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Go through passport control, pick up bags, go through customs, recheck bags, go through security, board plane
8:30 a.m. Take off for Denver
10:30 a.m. (Denver time) Land in Denver
10:45 a.m. Board plane for 11:15 a.m. flight to Salt Lake City
11:30 a.m. Pull away from gate
11:50 a.m. Attempt to take off
11:51 a.m. Assess why pilot had to slam on the breaks at the last second before leaving the ground
12:15 p.m. Taxi plane back to gate
12:50 p.m. Determine there is a hydraulics problem and new plane must be used
1ish-2ish p.m. Kill more time. Find food. Eat food.
2:10 p.m. Board plane again for flight to Salt Lake City
2:20 p.m. Successfully take off
3:37 p.m. Land in Salt Lake City
4:00 p.m. Picked up by Daniel
6:30 p.m. Cafe Rio dinner with the fam
7:45ish-now p.m. Watch the Lakers win!!

The End

Natural Beauty

2008-06-07T14:03:00.005-06:00

In my "third-world" travels, I have always noticed how extremely beautiful these places are. Yes the dirt roads are often littered with trash, but if you're able to raise your eyes up off the ground, you will find some of the most spectacular natural beauty you have ever seen. Maybe that's why I do pretty well in places like these--I see the beauty. Anyway, next time you're visiting a less-developed country, my challenge to you is to find the beauty. It's so easy.

On the same note of natural beauty, my uncle passed along this article today. You can click on it if you want to read it.

This article made me so sad. I am so grateful for the memories I have of El Capitan, but I'm sad now that only "rich" people can have access to that wonderful place now. Maybe I'm sensitive right now because of the previous thoughts I shared, but I just wish the world would stop turning beautiful places into those of limited-access based on wealth. Anyway, just some thoughts as I wrap up my time here in Mozambique and prepare to go back to my first-world first home. "First home" because once you start traveling the world, you're never really at home.

Blah

2008-06-06T08:51:00.003-06:00

So I almost made it through my whole time in Mozambique without really getting sick, but today...blah! I am NOT doing well. It was probably the fish we ate yesterday in the village. So what is the remedy? A couple of Cokes and some Pepto-Bismol. Well, neither one have really started working yet, so maybe that isn't the remedy. Oh well. Hopefully it will kick in soon. Maybe I should have mixed the two before taking them. That would be so utterly disgusting.

But speaking of utterly disgusting...I found this when I was looking for the picture of the Pepto-Bismol. Check this out...

Who in their right mind would want to make, let alone EAT Pepto-Bismol ice cream. Hey, maybe I should try to make a Coke float with Pepto-Bismol ice cream. Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiick. =)~

Anyway, I'll get better soon, I'm sure. DON'T WORRY, MOM! =) I love you!

Winding Down

2008-06-05T12:42:00.002-06:00

Today was our last day in the villages! I can't believe the time has gone by so fast. And what better way to end our last day of work in the village by riding home with 15 people in the back of a small pickup truck for 20 minutes! Hahaha. It was quite the ride, let me tell you.

Tonight Andrea and I went with the Care for Life volunteers to what they call the "baby orphanage." It's an orphanage for kids from newborn to 5 years old. I got to play with the older kids since I can talk with them, and it was really fun. Little João just adopted me, as he had a rather unusual fear of the quacking stuffed chicken the volunteers brought to play with. He jumped in my arms and wouldn't let me put him down for the rest of the night. It's so nice to be wanted like that, and I can't wait to be a mom someday.

Para os que falam o português

2008-06-04T02:01:00.003-06:00

Em Moçambique tem um vocabluário um pouco diferente que o Brasil. Aqui é uma lista das palavras diferentes que eu achei aqui. (Não sei exatamente soletrar todas, então vou escrever mais ou menos como pronuciá-las.)

ônibus = machimbombom
mochila ou mala = pasta
desjejum = mata bicho (e usa-se como verbo...está mata bichando? já mata bichou?)
desjejum (mais formal) = pequeno almoço
gringo = muzungu
não = nada ou ainda (que não faz sentindo nenhum para nós brasileiros--ou os que querem ser brasileiros =)
carona = baléia

Acho que é só isso agora. Com certeza vou lembrar de outra e vou adicioná-las. Beijos!

Opposite side of the world...

2008-06-03T13:31:00.004-06:00

...and the road!

I don't know why I was so surprised to see people driving on the other side of the road in Johannesburg and here in Mozambique. Maybe because in Ghana they drive on the same side of the road as in the states. Anyway, it's already starting to look normal to me these days. Although, I would never try to drive here!

I'm a survivor!!

2008-06-02T11:43:00.005-06:00

This last weekend André, Andrea, João, Ryan, and I decided to go on a little adventure to Gorongosa National Park. Little did we know we were in for the adventure of our LIVES! Here's what went down...

We left the house at 3 a.m. to make the three-hour drive so we would make it in time for the sunrise. Little did we know how FOGGY it was going to be. It was absolutely terrifying to watch, so I just decided to sleep. Amazingly, I did fall asleep, only to be awoken by André's, "Ô tio," as João jerked the steering wheel to the left to avoid the semi truck that was headed straight toward us! Seriously, we couldn't have had a closer near-miss. That was the first time my life flashed before my eyes that day.

We made it as the sun was rising and the park was beautiful! We saw lots of monkeys and antelope and warthogs and such. About an hour and a half into searching for wildlife, we stumbled across some elephants. Well, we saw one cross the road right in front of us, so we slowed down, but kept moving forward, when all of a sudden at our left a VERY ANGRY elephant appeared. He made that roaring sound with his trunk and got up on his hind legs. Then it looked like he was going to back off, so we stayed put and tried to take the best pictures we could, when all of a sudden, he appeared again and this time started charging at us! Second time my life flashed before my eyes. We have all this on video, I just haven't gotten my hands on it yet, but this was the best picture I could get. (He looks farther away than he really was!)

So, needless to say, João stepped on the gas and got us out of there as fast as he could. Not to far down the path, though, there was this huge tree trunk that had fallen over and blocked the path. We felt like we were in some Indiana Jones movie. So we off-roaded it to get around the tree, and continued going. But not more than 50 yards down the road the path just ended. So then we sat there for a while trying to figure out what to do. We didn't really want to go back the way we had came and chance the elephants again, but we didn't have a choice. Luckily they had moved on, and we were able to go by safely.

Our other mini-adventure before lunch was helping our friends that we met along the way get unstuck. We all started speaking in English, and then we figured out that they were Brazilian! Here's a picture of us getting them unstuck.

There were tons of elephant tracks where we were helping them get unstuck, so I took advantage of the opportunity to show you all how big these beasts are. Look at the size of that foot compared to mine!

We went back to the main camp for lunch and met up with our new Brazilian friends. At about 3 o'clock we headed out to the park again in search of the elusive lions! We drove around for a couple of hours and saw some more animals, but no lions. João took us to a nice spot to take some pictures, so we pulled over and got out of the car. After we took our pictures, we climbed back into the car to head out of the park. Just one problem...the car wouldn't start. My life flashed before my eyes for the third time in one day. We got out and pushed the car to try to get it started moving, but nothing was working. LUCKILY, the last car on its way out of the park stumbled on us. There are a million paths in the park, so it was truly a miracle that they found us. They towed us in for the 40-minute drive back to the gate. If they hadn't found us, we would have been locked in the park all night long. Can you even imagine what that would have been like?? Thank goodness we said a prayer before we left in the morning, and I know many of you having been praying for me too. So, THANKS!

When we got there we ended up having to spend the night at the "hotel" there, basically bungalows that you can see above. It was really nice (which we paid for!) but I still found ants in my bed. Yeah! So we took a shower, put our dirty clothes back on, ate dinner at the bar, and then went to bed in our clothes. Blah. That night we also arranged for a driver from Care for Life to come pick us up in the morning, since the hotel was going to charge us an arm and a leg for a ride back to Beira.

Sunday morning we woke up to the owner of the hotel knocking on our door and telling us that we could catch a ride on their helicopter to the airport in Beira. The pilot had to go to the airport anyway to pick up some hotel guests, so we went! Here are some pictures from that experience.

Gil came and picked us up from the airport, and we got home at about 11:30 a.m. It was really the most adventurous 33 hours of my life that I never want to relive again! Whew!

Happy Coincidence

2008-05-29T09:10:00.003-06:00

So today we dropped off Raquel at the airport and picked up João. I'm sad to have Raquel go. =( We had some fun times and good laughs! =) But I guess "the work" continues on, just like a mission, although it won't be the same without her.

When we were leaving the airport we ran into two lds couples...the mission president (and co-founder of Care for Life with his wife as the other co-founder) and the area president and his wife. It was nice to stop and chat for a while with them. Below, I'll include a quick summary of how Care for Life got started. It's a great story that shows how much one person can do.

Sister Packard (founder) and the area presidency.
Below is the Care for Life headquarters.

After hearing about the devastating flood of 1999 in Mozambique, Cindy Packard, a midwife in Arizona, became interested in finding a way to help in Africa. Her trip to Mozambique in June of 2000, showed Cindy the urgent need for help in that area. Plans to teach a basic health course and bring needed birth kits led to the creation of a nonprofit called Care for Life. NGO status was granted in 2002, and Augusto Cherequejahne was hired as the National Director. CFL established a center in the city of Magna, and in 2004 a 22-acre farm was purchased to provide the NGO with sustainable income. CFL has partnered with the Mozambican government, Esperanza, Health Alliance International, and USAID.

Just Me

2008-05-28T11:03:00.006-06:00

I've posted a lot of pictures of other people and places, so it's probably time I posted some of me. Here are a few...

My first day in Beira!

The one night we ate dinner out!

André and I at lunch

Right after a village class got out.

Raquel and I at a village.

Quel and I at a school.

So I look like a total retard in this picture, but this is Belkiss!

Cooking at Marta's.

Me!

Raquel and I today in Mungassa.

Come back!

2008-05-28T10:44:00.003-06:00

So yesterday all the little kids flocked to us, and in this village all the kids did this....

They ran away from us! Apparently not a lot of muzumbos (white people) come to Mungassa. (And by the way, I wasn't chasing after this kid to get a picture! He was running from one side of the yard to the other and staying as far away from us as he could. Coitado!) One little girl even started to cry. We aren't that ugly! But, by the end of the day, some kids let us take their picture.

Beautiful Babies

2008-05-27T12:55:00.004-06:00

They aren't really babies, but they are so amazingly beautiful. Whenever we go into a village, the kids just flock to us. Yeah, we're new and white, but we also give them attention. And we take their pictures. They absolutely love having their picture taken and then seeing it on the camera.

Victorinho

Nando

Júlia

Pai

It is such a privilege to be here and meet my brothers and sisters that happen to live in Mozambique. I hope the research we are doing will build them up so that they can make their lives all that they want them to be.

Juicy Tidbit

2008-05-26T03:22:00.003-06:00

I almost forgot...yesterday when we were walking home from church, we passed this short, old man on the street and he said, "Good morning," in English. Then he points to me and says (in English), "This one for me." We tried not to laugh too hard as we kept walking down the street with him calling again, "This one for me." Sorry dude, I'm taken. =)

Lunch with Marta

2008-05-25T11:03:00.004-06:00

Marta is a nurse and works in the health sector for Care for Life. She is wonderfully bubbly and so generous. She invited us over to her house on Saturday to learn how to make lunch. It was lots of fun, and boy did we learn! Here are some pictures.

First, we had to get to Marta's house, which is two "chapas" away. These little vans crammed with people are called chapas. The most people we had in one at one time was 22. This is Andrea!

Here, Tatiana was showing Raquel and André how to play a jump rope game, using a little rope to demonstrate with her fingers. It was Tatiana's 11th birthday!

These are muscles...yummy appetizer.

Me trying the muscles for the first time...it was...ok.

Marta showing Raquel how to prepare the collard greens.

Tatiana showed me how to shave the coconut.

I got it down, but was quickly relieved since I wasn't the fastest at it...

Frying up the fish!

I'll get more pictures from Raquel, but this is what I've got right now. Altogether the meal consisted of popcorn and muscles for appetizers, and then fried fish, collard greens cooked in coconut milk, cucumber salad, massa (cornmeal dough), pineapple, and juice. It was a feast!

A Mozambican First!

2008-05-24T15:38:00.002-06:00

This is the INDIAN OCEAN...

...at night. See the light on the boat out there? Anyway, you can't really see it here in the picture, but I really saw it here in Mozambique tonight...pretty cool! Now I've just got the Arctic and the Antarctic Oceans left to see.

Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Barrick

2008-05-24T11:56:00.004-06:00

So in my craziness to post about Mozambique, I didn't get a chance to post something about my brother's wedding. But now I have pictures, so I guess it's worth the wait, huh?

Everything went absolutely perfect on May 15, 2008. I don't think I've seen a smoother wedding in my life. No hitches...no tears...it was fabulous. Brandon and Megan had the biggest smiles you've ever seen all day long. Their sealing was lovely too and the word that was probably spoken the most was ENJOY. I hope that's what they do as they start their life together. I'm sorry I missed the open house in California, guys, but know that I love you and wish you the best in everything!

Smacking on Cane

2008-05-23T01:04:00.008-06:00

Here's my promised post on learning how to eat sugarcane.

So while we rested under a tree a man came up and generous threw two big canes at our feet. We knew what it was, but we didn't know what to do with it. He "peeled" the first couple of pieces for us. Here's Raquel attempting to peel another one. (I didn't eve n try!) Once the cane was peeled we just started chewing on it like we were playing the flute. Like this...

So we sat there chewing and chewing. It was pretty good. The people we were with were looking at their charts and not paying much attention to us during all of this...or where they trying to ignore our total ignorance?? After we were done and the Care for Life people were done, they started hacking at the cane...they cut it up into little pieces, popped a piece in their mouth, chewed it until all the juice was gone, and then spit out what was left. Boy, did we feel like idiots! Oh well, next time we know!

Shower by Flashlight

2008-05-22T11:56:00.003-06:00

Again, not a first. A mission in Belém really prepared me for Africa I guess. So we have water, electricity, and Internet....something else must go, a.k.a. the light in the bathroom. Anyway, I love when stuff like this happens...it was quite a romantic experience!

Cheguei em MOÇAMBIQUE!

2008-05-22T09:39:00.006-06:00

After a grueling, two-day trip to get here (23.5 actual flying hours), I finally arrived in Beira, Mozambique. When I got on the bus at the South Africa airport to take us to our plane, I had no idea we'd be taking one of those Embraer jets...smallest plane I have ever been on. So here's a picture of our room here at the Care for Life headquarters. Top bunk...woohoo!!

It's a really nice place, for the most part. Supposively, the water is back on for good (brought back some Santarém memories), and with wireless Internet, I am a happy clam (except when it goes out...).

The very first day I got here we dropped off my stuff and headed out to a village for their celebration day for Care for Life--the day they get their prizes for meeting their six-month goals. I don't have any pictures from that, but I'll get some from Raquel and Andrea.

Yesterday Raquel and I spent the morning getting me up to speed with what she had observed and such, and we had some fabulous conversation going. It was great. That afternoon we went out and exchanged money for me, went grocery shopping, and came back and did some interviews with Care for Life staff at the end of the day.

Today we went to a village called Chiverano. They have been with Care for Life for four months. The people were very friendly, and I was really impressed with how clean and tidy their living circumstances were. I haven't seen an un-Care for Life village yet (that's tomorrow) so I don't know how different it really is since they started, but it was really, very nice. Here are some pictures from today.

There are lots of different kinds of house structures...

It might be hard to see, but this one has a rain gutter on the front of it.

Probably more of what we think of when we hear "African village"

Almost everyone has a goal of keeping their yard area swept. They all make these beautiful designs in the sand/dirt.

Most of them also all have a family garden.

Me with some new friends

Later I'll post about Raquel's and my experience with sucking sugar cane...yum!

Tagged??

2008-05-08T23:21:00.005-06:00

So I was reading Dani's blog tonight and I realized that she had tagged me (I think!). Haha. Anyway, here it goes...

10 years ago.....
I was practicing furiously to help the TOHS band and colorguard earn a spot in the Rose Parade (which they got, but I stopped guard that year because I was so freaked out that it was taking too much time away from my studying and I wouldn't be able to get into BYU because of it. man, was I lame.)

5 things on my to do list:
1. Renew my car registration before leaving the country.
2. Get malaria pills before leaving the country.
3. See her brother get married...before we both leave the country.
4. Finish by PhD application to BYU before leaving the country.
5. Pack for leaving the country!!

5 snacks I enjoy....
1. Ritz crackers
2. dried fruit
3. pudding
4. Wheat thins
5. cheeeeeeeeeese

5 foods I love....
1. beans and rice
2. ice cream
3. my enchiladas
4. chicken-broccoli casserole
5. BREAD (unfortunately...)

What would I do if I suddenly had a billion dollars?
I would instantly become Alex's sponsor and get him here ASAP!!!!!!! I'd pay for my wedding, PhD, kids, and then SAVE the rest...college funds, mission funds, marriage funds, etc. Oh, I'd give a bunch of it away too. And maybe start my mega-NGO.

5 places I have lived:
Thousand Oaks, CA, USA
Provo, UT, USA
Santarém, Pará, Brasil
Macapá, Amapá, Brasil
São Luís, Maranhão, Brasil

Favorite quote:
I have a million favorite quotes! I collect them and put them up everywhere. Can I write two?

One of my favorite is my own...is that egotistical or what? Lots of times I have to tell myself, "Just because it's hard, doesn't mean it's impossible." For those of you who know what I've been going through these last two years, you understand.

One of my new favorite quotes comes from Randy Pausch's last lecture..."Brick walls are there for a reason. They let us prove how badly we want things."

I don't think anyone really reads this blog, so I'm not really worried about tagging anyone. =) At least I enjoyed having to think about my answers to these questions. Night!

Mormons Rock!

2008-05-06T23:46:00.002-06:00

So Alex and I were talking about this a few weeks ago, and here it is in Newsweek!

America's Next Top Mormon

Enjoy!

Master Summer

2008-05-01T10:57:00.004-06:00

On Friday, April 25th, I received my MPA...no, not an MBA.

(True story...I'm introducing myself at a get-to-know-you activity..."My name is Summer, I'm getting an MPA at BYU, and I like cereal." Dumb girl who thinks she knows everything..."Um, I think you mean an M-B-A." Me..."Oh, you're right. MBA, MPA, it's so hard to remember what degree I AM getting. Thanks for helping out a poor, lost soul like me." OK, that's not what I said. It was more like..."No, you dumb retard, it's called an MPA. P. PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION. We're the ones who make sure you have roads to drive on, water to drink, and oh, yeah, that your toilet flushes. We also decide how much you pay in taxes, what new shopping center gets built in your backyard, and whether or not you have to buckle your seatbelt when you drive on the roads we made sure you have. We are also the ones that try to make the world a better place by properly managing philanthropic, nonprofit, and international development ventures. So, you stupid, stupid girl, you get it right...MPA...say it...M-P-A." Ok, so I didn't say that either. That's just what I wanted to say. I think I just said something like, "Actually, it is an MPA. I'm going into public administration instead of business administration." Dang us MPAs for being so gosh-darn nice! Ok...end of true story.)

Graduation was great! Elder Bednar spoke at commencement on Thursday afternoon. His message? Never stop learning! Amen. That night my family had a homemade dinner in the Maeser Building to celebrate. It was awesome. Friday morning started with attending UVSC's graduation (my "second mom" was the valedictorian speaker at her convocation!), then our MPA reception on the 7th floor of the Tanner Building, class picture by the bell tower, convocation (forever long...darn all those undergraduates!), then family pictures, dinner at home in North Salt Lake, and then ended with dessert at The Roof in Salt Lake. It was fabulous.

Expression

2008-04-20T09:56:00.002-06:00

Even though I think I can be quite the talker, when I feel intense emotions, I have no idea what to say. That's when I write poems. These are really simple, but they are me.

To Texas or Not to Texas?

2008-04-08T17:50:00.002-06:00

People have been asking me about what's going on with Texas Tech...they finally called me on Friday and invited me out to interview. Still no date yet, but I'm going to go and check it out. I figure, it can't hurt! I'm not really feeling the PhD desire these days, so who knows. But I hear that Lubbock is so exciting!! I'll let you know what I find.

Brazil Baby!

2008-04-08T14:54:00.011-06:00

I've discovered that a blog is a great thing to have during finals time...the ultimate escape from doing what you should be doing...

So I went to Brazil February 15-27 and it was one of my favorite trips ever! It was great to see that I can travel internationally by myself (which will come in hand for Mozambique), to be back in Brazil, and to be with Alex and his family. Alex worked every morning from 7-3, so I stayed home and studied and then either I would go meet him downtown or he would come home and we'd hang out around Valparaíso. It was great to just be there and be part of life for a while. Here are some pictures...

At the airport.

At the mall.
Downtown Brasília!

On top of the T.V. tower.

We had the missionaries over for dinner.

So things were going great when one day Alex and his brother, Pedro, and I went to this beautiful park surrounding the lake downtown. Here's a picture:

Pretty, huh? So we were walking along the sidewalk around the lake and we came to this little dock. So we went out on the dock and took pictures of the Ponte JK and us.

Little did I know that Alex had taken me to that very spot to propose! Only thing was, there was a group of people waiting to come out to the dock and Alex didn't want to propose with them right there. He tried waiting them out, but I was like, "It's ok. We've had our turn. We can go." I really didn't suspect anything! So we walked around the lake a little big more and he found a spot and...

I look like a total retard here...I was really nervous! I couldn't believe it was happening!! But I was really excited! We went out to dinner with his family that night and when I woke up the next morning I had a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge smile on my face. And I ring on my finger!

The End

Still alive...and kicking!!

2008-04-08T08:06:00.003-06:00

So everyone has been getting on my case to update my blog...I guess I'm about as good with this as I am with my journal. So it may take a few days to post at least the major events of the last THREE months, but I'll get to it, I promise. But to start us back into the depths of Summer's thoughts, here's something that she just couldn't believe...

Check out this article... 10 Great Jobs in Nonprofits

Now, I'm usually not one who gets offended at every chance, but this is just ridiculous. Jobs #3 to #10 are just insulting. My personal favorite is #8...Janitors and cleaners. First of all, what does a nonprofit janitor do that a private sector janitor doesn't do? Which brings me to point number two. If you are going to be a janitor...work in the PRIVATE SECTOR. I'm sure you'll get paid more.

Maybe I just need to be more humble and realize that this article could be the answer to my prayers. I've been wanting to know how I break into the nonprofit world with my MPA degree. I guess I should polish up on my toilet cleaning skills...

Blue to Red?

2008-01-23T23:56:00.001-07:00

Is it possible that after so many years of proudly wearing blue (Weathersfield Eagles, Los Cerritos Matadors, and my beloved BYU) that I could possibly go to RED?

A professor of mine recently told me that if you want to make God laugh, just tell him your plans. Texas. Red. PhD. Management. God's gotta be laughing so hard right now...I said I'd never do any of those things...and now I'm walking down that road. Somebody save me!!

Putting the media in its place

2008-01-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd congratulate Bill Clinton and Mitt Romney in the same sentence, but I completely approve of how they have taken a stand against the media. Of course, the media try to make these "outbursts" seem like negative acts, but I have never been happier to see someone "lose their cool" with the media. Congrats, guys! Keep up the good work!

Check out even how theses videos are labeled...

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2008/01/17/sot.bill.clinton.annoyed.kgo

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2008/01/17/romney.reporter.spat.cnn

Round Two

2008-01-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

Here's how today's turned out...

I wish I had gone with the lighter lilac color, but it's still pretty dang cute.

Creative Experimenting

2008-01-11T08:29:00.000-07:00

So I'm not very good at keeping my blog updated. I'll try to be better!

This is my attempt at being a crafty person. A good friend 0f mine is having a baby and his name will be Caio, so I wanted to see if I could pull off this vision that I had in the middle of Wal-Mart. What do you think? I'm going to attempt another one this afternoon. I'll post a picture of how a girl version turns out!

Reading Frenzy

2007-12-26T23:13:00.000-07:00

So since the minute the semester ended, I haven't been able to stop reading (except for eating, sleeping, opening Christmas presents, and writing this blog...let's not forget that this is the LAST "Christmas vacation" of my life!). My reading list for the break includes...

Man's Search for Meaning
Change the World: How Ordinary People Can Accomplish Extraordinary Results
Building the Bridge as You Walk On It
The End of Poverty
Bridges out of Poverty
Personal Destinies (again!)
If God Loves Me, Why This?
Bonds that Make Us Free
Any other juicy tidbits that I Stumble! on. Here are some good ones:

Too late

2007-12-26T02:16:00.000-07:00

It's 2:16 a.m. and I really should be in bed, but I just can't kick the end-of-the-semester sleeping schedule. So here I am creating a blog. Let's see how long it takes me to figure this out...