I am Grateful for the Military

As you probably have read on either Facebook or Macen's blog, my little boy has a pretty bad head cold. He woke up this morning sounding horrible. I called the appointment line and was lucky enough to get him in THIS afternoon. Those of you who deal with Military clinics know that this is a miracle when it happens. Macen is fine. He's got medication and is already sounding better.

As I sat with him today I realized how very blessed we in the military are. We were in a very clean, safe military hospital. The Medication is right there. We have to wait, but when we left, we had everything we needed.

My friend Courtney mentioned on Facebook the other day how tiring it was to hear military members or their spouses complain about what we have. I agreed with her then, and I agree with her even more now.

First off, I need to debunk a few myths. We are not "given" free medical. We pay for it, we just don't see it come out of our paychecks. We are lucky in that we don't have to worry about our medical care. We receive it no matter where we are. I love that!

Secondly, our doctors are pretty amazing. They see so many people EVERY day! They deal with every sickness, every injury, every medical condition you can think of. They're not perfect, but I promise you they are dedicated.

That being said, I am so grateful to be married to my military man. I am blessed to live in a neighborhood where everyone is going through, has gone through, or will go through the "military spouse experience" I love the adventures that we have. I miss him when he's gone, but it only makes it that much better when he comes home!

So, today, I again want to thank all those who have served in the Military. You are hero's to more people than you will ever know! (and on a side note: Grant, I am very thankful for you!)

A Bad Day at the Beach is still Better than a Good Day at Work

No rants today. No outbursts. Just me and a beach! Macen and I took a walk on Yorktown Beach this morning. No, it didn't look like the above picture, but I promised Macen no camera this morning. It was so peaceful this morning, but to me, it's always peaceful. I love the beach. I love the sand. I love the rocks covered in (what Macen calls) Ocean moss.

Today we didn't talk about Macen's Asperger's . We didn't talk about how much we missed Daddy. We just talked about the view. We noticed how the tide changed the beach. We talked about the dead jellyfish. (I know, not a great topic, but remember, Macen is a 9 1/2 year old boy, so anything gross is up for conversation) We talked about how lucky we were to live so close to the water. We had to, once again, look at the cave that Lord Cornwallis set up camp in during the Revolutionary War. Macen likes that story, and he likes the cave. We talked about what it would be like to live during the Revolutionary War. Macen decided that he likes living in "this" time because "what would I do for video games without electricity?" On a side note he said I should be happy too because they didn't have microwaves OR a Walmart....

This morning was so wonderful. I am so grateful to live where I do. I am grateful for the times I have with my son. He has taught me so much about being okay with whatever life deals us.

I hope you all have a wonderful Sunday. Get some rest. Thank God for you blessings. Tell you loved ones how much they mean to you. Enjoy the day.

I Stand

Today on Facebook, I read a comment from an acquaintance. In the comment he asked all those in Washington State to call their representatives and tell them to NOT support the gay rights bill. He made it very clear how much he was against gay people getting married. He commented that if "they" get their way, gay people will demand equality in not only marriage rights, but in education as well. He told in horror how he would have to pull a 1st grade out of school because a teacher might have to teach about "Johnny having two moms"

I've heard this all before. It bothers me on many levels.

First, he made sure to preface the comment by saying he was not a bigot, nor was he "intolerant" Really? What do you call a person who is so against a persons lifestyle that he would take a child out of school if someone dares to teach about different families? He called them a minority group that was threatening the "Christian way of life" WOW! Sounds like what the KKK said back in the 60's. I'm pretty sure we can agree that the KKK are considered "intolerant bigots"

Second, he called upon the people in my church to do something about it. He fears that if Gay people get the right to marry, they'll sue the Mormon church to get married in the Temple. Really? I'm sure that after being treated so badly by the Mormon Church for decades, the first thing Gay people would want to do is join the church and dedicated their lives to being celibate, since they can not actively engage in a homosexual lifestyle.

Third. Enough is enough. You don't believe in Gay Marriage? Don't have one. You don't want your child to learn about different families? Pull them out of school and see how they function as adults in the real world. Gay people are here. Gay people are just like us straight people. They search for love and when they find it they want to get married,raise a family and live happily ever after.

I know there are many of my friends who do not agree with me. I know there are many in my church who look down on my views. that's okay. I respect their views. I will, however, not stay silent when intolerance and bigotry show their ugly heads. I stand for the rights of Gay people. I have said it before..If I have to choose between Religion and People...I will choose people...

Shoes

Before you judge someone,

walk a mile in their shoes,

if then you still don't like them,

your a mile away..

and you have their shoes

I Believe

Everyone has to believe in something.

I believe I'll take a nap.

Do you know this about me?

25. I met my first best friend, Susan, in Manlius New York while riding my Big Wheel through our new neighborhood.

24. I met by BFF, Nan, in Fallon Nevada while we were in Sunday School. She swore and I knew we were soul sisters.

23. I met my Military Bestie, Pam, at the Chiefs club, but I knew who she was because I kept talking to her daughter Courtney at the bus stop and Courtney had NO idea who I was!!!

22. I am intimidated by my sister Kim's incredible knowledge and talent.

21. I can't swim in an ocean. Jaws scared the living hell out of me. My Aunt Cindy took me to the movie and to this day, the music panics me!

20. I got my love of history from my dad.

19. My very first History report was assigned by my mom and dad for our trip to Boston. I had to do Bunker Hill and The Boston Tea Party. Because of that, I LOVE to study the Revolutionary War, and I think that's where I got my "crazy views" of the Government

18. My very first "crush" was on a friend of my older Brother.

17. I love sunshine, summer and the beach

16. I dated a doctor (well, an intern) once, but I couldn't visit him at work because Hospitals make me ill.

15. I hate hospitals but Grey's Anatomy is my favorite show

14. I love to talk about politics. It's a passion of mine, but I can't stand to argue about politics

13. I can not understand people who are against same sex marriage. None of what they say makes any sense to me.

12. Macen and I love to quote commercials. We do it in the middle of normal conversations...

11. My favorite memories are the ones while growing up in Manlius. I often find myself boring Macen about my childhood.

10. I had an invisible friend

9. I use to drive my "inchworm" vehicle off the porch of our house in Moline Illinois

8. I love MUD!

7. my dog Bear saved my life

6. My first bike was a pretty pretty blue with a flowered Banana seat..and then my brother John painted it....

5. I have more Faith than people give me credit for.

4. I love lemon cake

3. I love Daisies, Tulips, Sunflowers

2. My most favorite smell is lilac

1. When I lay down to sleep, my very last thought is always about Grant

Imagine

I have lots and lots of time to think about things. Sometimes that's a good thing..sometimes....not so much. Today it was a good thing. I watched the State of the Union last night. I loved it..not because I am a democrat...but because it gave me hope. I actually found myself clapping along. I cheered. I don't do that usually. Normally I listen, nod my head..and wait to hear what the other party thinks. Last night was awesome.

It made me imagine what it would be like if everyone helped out. EVERYONE. Rich, poor, gay, straight, black, white...you get the picture. We're all in this together.

Imagine if we didn't argue over religion?

Imagine if we didn't argue over politics?

What a great place this would be.

Imagine if we helped the unemployed? The hungry? The mentally ill? The uneducated?

Imagine if we not only supported out troops but actually volunteered our time in the services?

Imagine if we gave schools the help they need?

Imagine if insurance didn't cost so much?

Imagine what it would be like if we could allow our children safe places to play?

Imagine if we could actually respect each other?

I think that we could make these things real if we WORK TOGETHER.

I like to imagine things changing for the good. I like to find hope. I like to imagine!

Peace IS Good

Today has been a strange, amazing day. A roller coaster of emotions. Not a bad day, just a strange one. I realized how quickly time passes. 7 years ago we lost our little Katie. It's never been a happy time to remember, but today it was different. Today for the first time in 7 years I was in the same place where it happened. The weather actually fit my mood. It was cold, gray, and a little dismal. I was kind of sad. Then I remembered how incredibly blessed I have been over the past 7 years. I have had so much fun. I have met the most amazing people. I have seen places that most people didn't know existed. I really don't need to be sad when I think of Katie. I had a little girl, and even if it was for only a few months she will be with me forever. I have an AWESOME son who never lets me forget I have so much more to learn. I have a husband who loves me. I have a family that even though I bug them, they still care for me. I have good friends..strike that, I have GREAT friends who always know what to say! Today was a day of learning. Today I listened to my son say a prayer to get rid of all the hate in the world. Today I found that I have done a good job teaching my son about love and loss. Today was a good day.
To all those who care enough to read this silly little blog, I want you to know how very thankful I am for you. You have made my life better just by knowing you.. (and Nan, "I've had many friends, but only one that mattered"...I am with you in spirit..)

Stand Out

Life is too short to blend in,

always stand out

and be YOURSELF .

Katie Mechelle Caufield 9/29/2004-1/22/2005

Its one of those days where the tears fall freely.

Let's get some knowledge...shall we?

Today I watched as a state chose an adulterer over a Mormon. And the main reason? I'm glad you asked. The main reason is that over 80% of the voters did not think that Mormons are Christians....SERIOUSLY?

I don't vote Republican. It doesn't matter who's going up against President Obama. I'm still voting democratic. What bothers me is the ignorance of some people. Since I am such a giving person, I typed in the 13 Articles of Faith. These 13 statements below are, in a nutshell, what Mormons believe. If you have questions ASK..If I don't know the answer I'll find someone who does.

This up coming election is important, and it shouldn't be decided by lies, half truths and innuendos.

TAKE NOTE OF # 1

The Articles of Faith of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

1 .We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.


2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam's transgression.

3. We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.


5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.


6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.


7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.

8.We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.


9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.


10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisaical glory.

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


12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

13.We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

Joseph Smith

Never Be Afraid

A Loving Story

Photo by: Grey Villet

When Mildred and Richard Loving married in Washington, D.C. in 1958, they knew that they were going against a law. They knew that in their home state of Virginia, that getting married was not only considered a sin, it was illegal. They crossed the state border and married in D.C.

A few months after returning to Virginia, Police raided their home in the middle of the night and arrested them. They we found guilty and faced a year in jail unless they left the state. They did. They were "banished" to Washington D.C.

Their story eventually made it to then Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. The American Civil Liberties Union took up the case and brought it all the way to the United States Supreme Court. In 1967, in a landmark Civil Rights ruling, the court struck down America's laws against interracial marriage.

Mildred never considered herself a political person. She just knew who she loved. She knew that it should not be illegal to marry the person that she loved.

Nowadays, it's common to see interracial marriage. It seems normal to most of us.

I told this story to my son. He looked at the pictures and asked one simple question: "Why did people have a problem with it?" I told him that people didn't like change. People thought it was going against "God's law."

Sound familiar? We fight against Gay marriage because certain Christian people believe it goes against "God's law"

There was a time that women didn't have rights because it was feared that if we allowed women out of the kitchen, things would change. It was going against God's plan for families. So, Women stood up and fought, and won equal rights. Did things change? Yes. Did the idea of families change? Not really. We just had to open our minds to a new kind of family.

The Civil Rights movement gave black people equal rights. Many many "christian" people believed that giving black people the right to vote was going against God. Sounds silly to think that now.

What is my point? Simple..things change. It shouldn't effect your faith. Don't like Gay marriage...don't have one. It is not going against God's plan. If it were , the cause would have died years ago.

This country evolves every day. 40 years ago interracial marriage was almost unheard of, until people started opening their minds.

Love is what is important. Nothing else.

Before....

Coco Chanel

Don't ever...

Don't ever allow worry,

fear,

and doubt

to cloud your mind

It will blind your soul,

cast a shadow on your heart,

and eat away at your character.

Be happy with what you have,

grateful for what you are given,

and never want more than you need.

I'll Hug Your Elephant When You Kiss My A$$

I'm a Democrat. I'm a Independent Liberal Democrat. I voted for Clinton (twice) and I voted for President Obama. I am proud to be a Democrat. I don't dislike Republicans. I don't think they're stupid. I think we are all entitled to our own opinion.

I received an email today from someone I adore. The email was written by a professor at some college. In it, he explains reasons that Obama will win 2012. By reading this email it is very clear that he is a staunch conservative pompous Republican. His main point was pretty much Obama will win because Americans are stupid.

Americans, he claims, don't care or understand the economy.

Americans, he claims, are suffering from apathy. Really? He thinks that Americans just don't care anymore so we'll vote for whoever? Really?

He also claims that educated women will vote for Obama because we like the way Obama speaks. WOW! Maybe we need to stop women from getting educated.

He claims that, of course, Homosexuals will vote for Obama. Okay. I mean, why wouldn't they? The Republicans have all but declared that gay marriage is wrong and they will not support it. Hmm...well...that doesn't take a college education to figure out.

The letter went on, and each point kind of ticked me off.

I am a smart open minded woman. I pay attention to the economy and I guarantee that even if, heaven help us, a Republican is voted in to office, he will NOT be able to fix this economy. It's going to take so much more than any of us can do. Companies are going to have to pay taxes. The wealthy will have to pay taxes, along with the middle class and the poor. Companies are going to have to stop outsourcing work to foreign countries. (But, then again, I don't really care about the economy..remember?)

Yes, Gay people should be able to get married. It's simple. It's equal rights. Don't give me scripture..unless you're ready to stand by EVERY scripture as a way of life..Bring it on! Gay People don't always vote Democrat..believe it or not, some vote Republican..scary huh???

Do I think that apathy exists in America? Sure. It's a sickness that can take over if we don't watch it. However, I believe that apathy isn't as big as this professor thinks. I meet people every day who work hard to make the world a better place. They open their homes, their lives, they wallets. They help with the homeless, with the suicidal, with the environment, with the poor, the abused. I meet people who have given their lives in service of this country. We are not guilty of everyday apathy. I know there are times when I throw my hands up and say, "I don't care." and then I get right back to caring. It's human nature. Do not believe for a second that if President Obama wins a second term it is because of Apathy. It is because those of us who support him believe that he cares more about people, not business. I will vote for him so that I am assured that women will ALWAYS have control over their reproductive options. I will vote for Obama because I believe that every American adult has the right to marry who they love. I support the President because I believe in his view of the American dream. I have faith in this Country. I have faith that I voted for the right person. I am a proud Democrat. Don't hate me because I'm liberal. Don't hate anyone because of what they believe. We're all in this together......

Macen and Asperger's

Macen has Asperger's syndrome. There I said it. He does. He's been "officially" diagnosed AGAIN! It's good. Now it's on his school record, his medical records...it's WHAT he has..not WHO he is.

My son is different form other kids in the neighborhood. He doesn't like small talk. He doesn't like loud noises. He doesn't like it when people sing. It hurts his ears. He doesn't like bright lights. He doesn't like to ride the school bus. He likes to meet other kids, but gets bored if they don't like what he likes. He likes older kids, or younger kids, he's not really comfortable with kids his own age. He loves movies and video games. He has an amazing memory. He quotes lines from a movie that he has only seen once. He loves science because he likes to see how things happen. He doesn't like math because it's just memorizing numbers. He like P.E. He loves it except when he has to run...it makes his chest hurt. My kid has quirks. Some are easy to miss, others are easy to see. He hums when he eats or when he's trying to do his schoolwork. He zones out when he's had enough. He's bull headed and difficult at times. He has a big heart and hates it when kids get in trouble, while at the same time if a kid isn't following the rules he likes to tell on them. He takes medication to keep him focused but he does NOT have ADD. He may seem like he isn't listening, but he is. He hears EVERYTHING. He hears when other kids or adults call him "weird" or "retarded" He sees the way people look at him when they think he isn't "focused" He hears what people say to me when he is having a small breakdown.

My child is amazing to me. He is so smart sometimes it scares me. He loves other people. He doesn't ever want to be the center of attention. He's happy being one of the crowd. He likes when I come to school because he can let me take center stage and he can be my "back up" (that's what he told me tonight) My kid is awesome. He is loving, and kind to all. He isn't comfortable meeting new adults and he tests them. Once he trusts you, you're his friend.

This adventure he is on is scary. It's hard to understand sometimes. As he grows, we learn. There are so many things out there about Asperger's, and each child is so different. We try things. Some work, some don't, but we NEVER give up.

Yes, Macen has Autistic tendencies..but that's just a part of Asperger's. It's tough. It's strange. It's life right now.

I am telling you this so you are not so quick to judge those "weird" kids. Macen is growing up and understands a lot about Aspergers. He is being educated on what he has. I have been blessed to be able to see specialist after specialist. Some parents aren't so lucky...Help them out. Don't tell them that they are lazy parents who don't know how to handle thier child. Kids with Asperger's are hard to define. They are hard to handle sometimes, but they are NOT retarded.

I am a mother to a boy with Asperger's syndrome. I love him. I will defend him..

25 MORE Interesting Things You May Not Know About Me

25. I love the TV show MASH. I have seen every episode.
24. I am horrible at Math..I mean HORRIBLE!!!!
23. Grant still makes me go weak in the knees when he wears his Navy Blues (or nothing at all)
22. I believe that a woman would be an AWESOME President of the United States. ( I do NOT believe it is going against God's will)
21. I believe that my friend Michele Taylor needs to be on TV as an advice guru.
20. I think Crazy women are made, not born
19. I want to go to cooking school
18. I love "Sex in the City"
17. I want a closet like they have in Fashion Magazine offices...(Think Devil wears Prada)
16. I am excited for Grant to retire...I can't wait. I am tired of him being gone all the time
15. I believe that Geran will baptize my husband
14. I like to people watch
13. I believe that I should rule the world..(with a lot of help from my friends)
12. I find it funny that people with 5 or more kids take everything in stride, while those with 4 or less always seem stressed
11. I have the most amazing cousins..
10. I believe that kids who bully other kids learn it from their parents
9. I take offence to teenagers who use the words "Homo" and "fag" on their Facebook status
8. I think kids swear too much these days
7. I think people who drink and drive are stupid
6. I think Teachers should have a pay raise
5. I believe that every woman needs at least one gay man friend
4. I have gray hair
3. I hate to wear long pants
2. I will be voting for President Obama in the upcoming election
1. I have a lot in common with the "Wicked Witch of the West"

John 3:16

Don't worry..this is not a vent against ANYTHING. I won't swear, or tell people NOT to believe something..
The past few weeks this verse has been EVERYWHERE. The news, Sports pages, blogs, newspapers, on T-shirts..it's been used in a commercial during a play off game. (The commercial was awesome even if I don't agree with the group that sponsored it)
It got me thinking about it. Macen and I even had a discussion about it.
Macen asked what happens to people who don't believe in Jesus. That's a hard thing to answer. I really don't know. I told him that he didn't need to worry, that God has a plan for "non-believers" and he just needs to decide what HE believes. Still, that got me thinking.
I know what I believe. I have never doubted my faith in Jesus. I may have doubted some of his followers, but that's a whole other story.
I believe in everlasting life. It comforts me. It makes this life not so scary. It makes my heart happy to know that I will see my loved ones again. It makes me happy to know that I will continue upon a path of learning. I love my faith in Jesus. I love knowing that there is something bigger out there.
But what about those who don't believe in Jesus? Who don't follow the Bible? What happens to them? Does anyone know for sure?
Many people have given me their ideas, and they all seem, well, like ideas..not facts. Most were pretty cool..They (the non believers) will have an opportunity to believe... NonBelievers are judged differently than Believers...One person said that non believers will burn in hell...I didn't pay him much mind since he was praying to curse all Mormons. Anyway..I would like to know what you think..It might help with the "Macen Discussions"

Tebowing?

Today I was having a discussion with a big sports fan. I made the comment that I am not a Tim Tebow fan. I guess that was the wrong thing to say. This fan went on to tell me that those of us who are against Tebow, are against God himself. Really? WOW! He said that Tim Tebow has single handily brought faith back to the non believers. His talent is sent from God. Okay Okay..I get it..If you don't like Tebow, don't tell a Tebow fan.
I don't care about football. I don't pay attention to football players..unless my husband or his friends make me. I don't have a favorite professional team. Heck, I don't even have a favorite college team..I have a UNFAVORITE college team, but I won't talk about BYU right now.
Tim Tebow seems like a pretty nice guy. He seems humble. He seems polite. I am sure that he has talent. I really haven't paid attention.
My problem with him is this: "Faith without Works"
My mom told me once, "You need to pray. You need to ask God..but you need to do the work as well." That stuck with me.
Tim Tebow likes to pray. He likes to show everyone that he likes to pray. Great. More power to him..but he doesn't do the work. He needs to constantly work on his "God given talent" He needs to do better.
I think that he needs to take his "Tebowing" a little bit more personal. By all means, take a knee..but don't make that your "Shtick."
I think that's what it's become for a lot of people...
Tebow is a model of faith for many, and that is great..but it shouldn't be all about his prayers.
BYU Teams gather together before every game and pray for help, for courage and strength, which is not advertised. ( believe me it kills me when I have to say something nice about this school) Notre Dame does the same..and it's not printed on T-shirts and sold for $30.
Faith is important. Prayer is important, but it is not what a football player should be known for. Sorry. He's making millions of dollars..the least he could do is be a GREAT quaterback....
Now, I am not a bad person for thinking these things. I am not going to Hell because I don't like Tebow. I am not anti faith, anti religion, or anti God...I respect those who love Tebow, who love Tebowing. I love people who have such faith that they continually cheer for a team that just can't win when it matters. I love sports fans..I just won't Tebow...I'll stick to thanking God in my own way...

In Honor Of The Reverend

".......there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force....We cannot walk alone.
And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.
We cannot turn back.

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest -- quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed.
Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends.
And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.
I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

This is part of, what I believe, one of the best speeches EVER spoken. The Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. was an amazing man. He was not consumed with power. He was consumed with love, and the needs of his people, of all people, to be free. His call for freedom still lives on today.

We can not stop fighting for freedom. It is ours to take. Our country was created out of a need for freedom.

Stand your ground. Fight for your rights. Do not stop another from speaking. If you don't like what they are saying, speak louder. Be proud of who you are and where you came from. Do not allow yourself to become a silent majority. Be LOUD, be PROUD. Don't let the legacy of the Reverend become silent....

Today...

Maybe I didn't solve any of the world's problems today,

but I did try to conduct my life in such a way that I didn't add to them.

It's not about the money...or is it?

Tonight I was flipping through channels and I came across the Golden Globes Red Carpet show. Now, I like nice dresses, and I like sexy men, and I like TV and movies so I watched it. There are some beautiful celebrities out there...(Hello George Clooney!!) The dresses were gorgeous, the shoes..OMG the shoes. WOW! I was enjoying the show. I pictured the day when Macen is nominated and he brings me in my very expensive dress and my Jimmy Choo's. (I do like to have big dreams for Macen) Anyway, a TV star came on the screen. The host said something like "Her Jewelry alone is worth over 5 MILLION dollars. 5 MILLION??? Seriously? For a necklace, bracelet and earrings??? That actually made me a little sick.

5 Million dollars? I can't even imagine that.

Don't get me wrong..I love the Bling. I do. I love diamonds. I love things that sparkle. My wedding ring still makes me smile, especially when the sun hits it!

But 5 million dollars is just, well, overboard.

My husband is a hard worker. He's been with the Navy for 20 years and he brings home a nice paycheck. We live well within our means. We struggle, but we are not in any sense of the word "poor" even though we live close to the official poverty level. We are very blessed. All around me I run in to people who are struggling just to get by. They don't have some of the luxuries that Grant and I do. They work hard, but money is tight. In this economy, that's true for a lot of people. It is always very humbling for me to visit with these people.

As I watched the rest of the celebrities walk down the red carpet I realized how messed up the world has become. These celebriies have earned the right to dress up. They deserve to look nice for an award show...but 5 million dollars for jewelry is just plain crazy.

I thought, wouldn't it be nice to hear that instead of all that money being worn around the neck, is being used for education. It went towards computer labs, books, teachers aids..

The money on tux's and dresses could go towards a homeless shelter, an animal shelter.

That over indulgence is a weakness that I believe most of us have.

(Please don't tell Grant about my following statements)

Do we really need new fancy purses? Shoes for every outfit in our closet? Do we really need the biggest skinniest TV? Do we need new video games? The newest video game system?

I realized tonight that I can't get mad at the stars if I over indulge too. I have to start looking at myself. I don't need new clothes every season. I don't need new purses or shoes just because they're pretty. I need to stop indulging my every whim. I need to be better.

I watched the rest of the show, and as I type this the Golden Globes are playing in the back ground. I am still enthralled with the celebrities, but no longer in what they wear.

my Top 10 "FREEBIES"

Grant and I are a very happily married couple. We really are. I feel like I married "THE ONE"

That being said, he and I both have out "Freebie List" That's the list of your top 10 celebrities that if we ever got a chance to be with, it wouldn't end our marriage. I am going to share my list with you (don't worry, I have already shared it with Grant) I would like to see who you would put on your list, so leave me a comment..

10. Mark Wahlberg

9. Vin Diesel

8. Ryan Reynolds

7. Jude Law

6. Robert Downey Jr.

5. Donny Osmond

4. George Stephanopoulos

3. Brian Williams

2. Patrick Dempsey

1. Timothy Olyphant

That's my list, well, the Top 10 of my list..I have a top 100..and the bottom half changes a quite a bit..but these top 10..they're ALWAYS on it....

So, I showed you mine..why don't you show me yours????

Life is a Gift

I love this.

I love Life.

I believe that Life is a gift.

Open it!

Let's Really Talk About Mormons

okay, I admit it...I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints..(aka Mormon) I don't claim to be a good Mormon. I struggle. I have doubts, but I love what I DO believe. I don't advertise it. I don't really do missionary work. I don't really like going to church..but those are my issues, and I have to deal with them, they have nothing to do with the gospel of the church.


Lately there have been conversations about Mormons. It's about time. These discussions are important, these discussions will allow people to gain at least some understanding of this "Lifestyle of a Religion"
It is a lifestyle. When you are LDS you have a way of life that for some, seems bizarre. You choose to live a life that looks at Eternity. Families are forever. Marriage doesn't end at death. You have eternal goals. I love that. I love knowing that I will be with my family forever.


There are many different "TYPES" of LDS people.


1. True Latter Day Saints. These are amazing people, and sadly are hard to find sometimes. It's a hard thing to be. I know a few and I adore them. They make me want to be a better person. These people know what they believe. They don't judge those who think or act different from them. They know that the Church extends beyond Utah. They struggle like everyone else, but they keep the faith. They know that there is truth to what they believe. I love these type of Mormons. They make my heart happy when I talk to them.


2. Latter Day Saints. They are very similar to the "TRUE LDS' The only difference is, they close their eyes to different beliefs. I don't mind these people. If they are happy..I am happy for them.


3. Mormons.I don't know how to explain them. They're good people. They try to live the way they're supposed to. They struggle. They like caffeine, and they drink it even though they're not supposed to. They do things that they're not supposed to, but they constantly try to do better. I really like these people. They are amazing to me. I know many many many "Mormons" and I thank God every day for them.


4. Utah Mormons. Please do not take offence if you are in Utah..I am NOT necessarily talking about you. Utah Mormons are pretty awesome. Most have never been east of Colorado. They can live in Idaho, Nevada, even California. They live in areas where the majority of people are Mormon. They don't really have to defend their lifestyle, because most of their friends share it. They have gone to Seminary right across the street form their school and usually get high school credit for it (It may have changed since I went to seminary, but you get the point) The kids go to school with a majority of kids who go to church with them. They are a difficult breed of Mormon because they haven't really had to test their beliefs. I don't mind Utah Mormons. They are generally good people..just a little naive at times


5. Jack Mormons. We all know these. They party hardy during the week, but on Sunday they go to church and pretend that they are "True Latterday Saints." These people make me laugh. They really aren't hiding anything. We all know what they do. I tend to ignore what they preach to me. For instance, I had a "JM" preach to my husband on how to be a good father, a good soul mate...this man was having an affair. I have had many preach to me on how to be a better Mormon while at the same time gossiping about others. I don't like when the Jack Mormons make the news..it's just bad.


6. Struggling Mormons. I relate to these..in fact I am one of them. These Mormons love the gospel. They believe in most of the teachings, but have serious doubts about some of them. I love what I believe. I love what my parents instilled in me about the church, but I have issues. I will defend the Mormons, but my personal issues keep me from being a "True LDS." I accept that about me, and so do most of my family and friends who share my religion. Most struggling Mormons have more faith in people than they do the religion. I like the people in my group. We're not angry, we're just finding our own way.

This election coming up will bring the LDS faith to the front. Take time to learn about it. Don't judge it. Just learn. Read. You don't have to have missionaries come to your house. You don't have to start reading or listening to Glen Beck (in fact, I am begging you to NOT do that) We Mormons are everywhere. We're your neighbors. We work with you. We go to school with you. If you don't like one Mormon, meet another one. We're all different.

Confetti

I want to be buried in a spring loaded casket with loads of confetti.

Why?

Because then in the future,

some archaeologist

is going to have one AWESOME day at work!

More things you may not know about me...

25. I talk to myself all the time
24. I love Gaga
23. I don't like hospitals..I avoid them
22. I don't like when people spit. It gags me a little
21. I love the smell of freshly brewed coffee
20. I don't like to go to church by myself, but I don't mind going to movies by myself
19. I believe that Sex education should be taught in schools, and it should be "real"
18. I think that if we don't spend more money on education we will be spending more money on welfare and prisons
17. I think that our electoral system is completely screwed
16. I think that people need to stop worrying about gay marriage, and work on their own
15. I am amazed at the way young girls dress these days
14. I think that men who beat their wives are not "real" men and should be marked with a "B" so everyone knows what they did
13. I think Donald Trump is a blowhard
12. I actually am not against polygamy
11. I scream loud once a day
10. I flash my friends
9. I think pot should be legal
8. I think Health Insurance companies should be fighting for our business
7. I think Lawyers and Doctors should make less money, and their schooling should be cheaper
6. I like to say the words "Douche" and "Ass"
5. I think it's fun to be bad
4. I like to shock people
3. If something ever happened to me, I am willing Grant to Nan
2. I like to talk about me
1. I am not crazy, I am quirky

Homeless

A few weeks ago I posted that Homeless people freak me out. They do. Not because of dirt, or crazy, or smell..but because my biggest fear is that I could become one of them. When I was living in Salt Lake I got to know a very friendly homeless lady. I would bring her leftovers from work. I slipped her a few bucks every now and then. On occasion I would supply her with the alcohol she wanted so badly. We would talk. She would tell me stories. She had a bit of craziness to her which I loved. She told me living on the streets gave her freedom. One day she said to me "You remind me of myself." That scared me. I have never forgotten how she looked when she said it. I told myself I could never be that way..but the truth is, there have been times in my life when I see her in me. It terrifies me. I see the homeless and I want to help. I want to get them off the street, but the truth is, I can't do that. I can't help them they way they need to be helped..and that scares me too. I have a very blessed life. I have more than I need. I sleep in a warm bed. I eat fresh food that I cook in my kitchen. My son is taken care of. We shower every day. We put on clean clothes. We are blessed. The thing is, it can all go away. I don't know what life has in store for me, or for my family. I could become homeless, and that scares me. So yes, Homeless people freak me out. I said it. I know it isn't politically correct, but it's the truth. I don't ever want to be homeless. I don't ever want to worry about where our next meal will come from, or where we will sleep. I cry for those who have to make those kind of decisions. I pray for those who are in need..but mostly, I pray that I will always have a home to call my own.

Love

If two people are happy, leave them be,

if you're not happy find some one that makes you happy,

if the world was happy, it would just be one romantic love story

Positively Me

I like to laugh. Take that back..I LOVE to laugh. I love to be positive. Sometimes I love to be positively bad, but it's still positive.I don't like negative energy, negative thoughts, negative people. I like to wake up every morning feeling positive about the day. I love to wake up in the morning thankful for another day. Positive thinking is how I get through . Even on bad days I can say "I am positive this day is going to end." Being positive is my thing. That's not to say I don't get mad. That's not to say that I don't get sad. I'm just saying, that for every minute that I am angry, or sad, it's 60 minutes I haven't smiled. I like to smile. I find humor in pretty much everything...even in horrific things where I shouldn't find humor, I do. I look for it. It helps me cope with sadness, with anger, with not understanding why bad things happen. I am telling you this so you understand a little bit more about me. I love to be positive. It's a need that I have. I don't mind if people around me aren't positive..that's their choice. We all have choices on how we look at things..I like to find good. I like to find happy. I like to find funny..and believe me, there is plenty of funny out there.

Today, for a minute, look around and say something positive about everything you see. Do this every chance you get. You'll find, like I did, that life isn't bad. That the world writes it's own humor. Even grumpy old farts are funny, in their own way (Warning: Do not point and laugh at grumpy old farts..it's rude) Try to be positive. Try to be happy. Try to have a laugh at least once a day..it's cheaper than therapy!

I Am...

The words I AM are two of the strongest words when put together. Be careful what you add to them. They can define you. They can crush you. They can make you. The words I AM can tell you more about yourself. The Words I AM can tell you about other people. Listen to the "I AM's"

Close your eyes right now..say the words "I AM" and finish the sentence with the first word that comes to your mind. What was it?

"I AM Happy" I AM Sad" "I AM Angry" I AM Smart" "I AM Stupid" I AM Sick" I AM Healthy"

So many things can be added to "I AM"

When I say "I AM hungry" it's an easy fix. I go to my kitchen and grab something to eat. But when an impoverished child says "I AM hungry" it takes on a whole new meaning.

Listen to your own "I AM's" and take them seriously. They can tell you who you think you are. They can also tell you who you REALLY are.

I remember being sad after Katie died. I hated to go outside, to the playground, to the store. I had Macen so I did all those things and when people asked me how I was feeling I would say "I AM fine." On the outside, I was fine..but for a long time on the inside I was screaming "I AM sad" I had to deal with my inside "I AM" to finally start becoming my outside "I AM" It took awhile, but I did it. I realized then, that I needed to pay close attention to my "I AM"

When a person tells you "I AM" listen to them. They are telling you a lot more than you think. Most people don't like to admit to any bad "I AM" things. Most don't want to show fear, or anger, or sadness. That's why you have to listen. If a teenager is being bullied, the inside 'I AM" is screaming "I AM SCARED" but the outside will say " I am fine" but you know better. When a friend, or a family member tells you an "I AM" listen to how they say it.

Go back to your "I AM" What was it? Is it the truth? Is it what you want it to be? Is it what you wish it could be?

The words "I AM" are powerful. If you say it long enough you will believe it. If you don't say it enough, it won't come to be.

"I AM ME, I AM happy, I AM worn out, I AM smart, I AM funny, I AM a child of God, I AM blessed beyond measure, I AM PROUD of who I have become."

Take your "I AM" seriously. Be the "I AM" you want to be...

"I AM blessed to have all of you in my life. I AM grateful"

I am me..Behold

My humor is my gift,

my laughter is my soul,

my mind is my lair with stories to be told,

and wisdom to learn from the young and old

I am love, I am me, behold

My Karma ran over your Dogma

"You can’t teach an old dogma new tricks."

25 Things I Love

25. I love my life
24. I love my house
23. I love sunshine
22. I love warm weather
21. I love the beach
20. I love my birthday
19. I love Facebook
18. I love my freedom
17. I love my beliefs
16. I love summer
15. I love rain (once in awhile)
14. I love the smell of pot roast on a Sunday afternoon after church
13. I love music
12. I love quiet afternoons, while the dogs are napping and I can blog
11. I love to cook
10. I love holidays...all of 'em
9. I love my TV shows
8. I love my extended family
7. I love the Forsch Family
6. I love Nan
5. I love my in-laws
4. I love my brothers and sisters
3. I love my mom and dad
2. I love Macen and Grant
1. I love myself, and everything that goes with me...

"Message to Myself"

I have favorite songs. I can never pick just one, because it changes every day. There is one song, however, that makes me smile. I sing it in the shower, in the car..anytime that I start doubting myself. It's called "Message to Myself" and if you have speakers, turn them on, because it should be playing.
The song is amazing. It reminds me how important it is to be the master of your own domain.
You choose your fate. You choose if you're going to be happy. You choose if you are going to be angry. Each choice determines your life.
I choose to be happy. I choose to not hold grudges. I choose to keep anger out of my heart. I choose to be the queen of my own life. My decisions may not change the world, but they will change my outlook on the world.

I write things on Facebook, or my blogs reminding me how cool I think I am. It's not because I have a huge ego, it's just sometimes I need to remind myself that I am doing okay. I think we all need to leave ourselves reminders, because we are all okay. You may be going through hard times, but your attitude will determine how you get through it.

So, I'm sending out a message to myself, so that when I hear it, I will know that I am loved, I will know that I am fine....

Never blame any day

Never blame any day in your life,

good days give you happiness,

bad days give you experience,

and the worst days give you a lesson..

Today's Little Vent

As you all know I am very very very supportive of Gay rights. I have been for as long as I can remember. I have never seen the problem of who a person loves..I think it's always great when love is in your life. . I have a gay uncle, that sadly, I don't really know because he came out at a time when being gay was worse than being a criminal. I regret that. I regret that he had to have a life away from his family. I am intolerant to those who fight gay rights. I have a hard time with those who like to quote the Bible in order to justify their bigotry. I think that we have allowed Church condoned bigotry to exist way to long. I think it's time that we embrace those that are different. I think it is time that we learn to love one another. I think it's time that we stop judging. I believe that if you judge, you must also be judged. I try very very hard to not judge those who don't agree with me. It's hard, but I am doing better, however, I will speak my mind if the comments become nasty, are outright lies, or half truths. I don't expect people who don't like the homosexual lifestyle to change their views, but I do expect them to show respect. I don't like it when I am told that those who fight the "gay agenda" are Christians, as if because I support gay people I'm not a Christian. I believe that the God I pray to is a loving father who does not believe in hate, bullying, or discrimination. I believe that by showing love to all, even if I don't agree with them, is more Christian, then those who protest Gay weddings. I think that a true Christian uses the WHOLE bible, not just a verse or two. I believe that until you know what a person has to go through you should keep your bigotry to yourself. I believe that the world is a scary place sometimes and we need all the love we can handle. I stand for the rights of Gay people, straight people, crazy people....I stand for Human Rights..and I make no apologies for my beliefs...

Just a Thought

Disappointments were not meant to destroy you.

They were meant to strengthen you.

A story about a girl I know

Once there was a little girl who grew up in a normal house with a normal family. She lived a normal life...but she wanted something more, she just didn't know what it was. She searched, but she didn't know what she was looking for. On the outside, she was still a normal person, but on the inside, she was screaming for something different. She continued to live a normal life. She was a normal child, a normal pre-teen, and then she became a teenager. She got tired of being normal. She got tired of being compared to her family. She got tired of being told what to do, what to be..so she changed. She started to speak her mind. She believed different things. She met people that were considered "outsiders" and she loved them. She changed her normal hair color, her normal hair style. She changed her normal clothes. She changed her normal music. She grew tired of the girls who teased her. She got tired of anything normal. She was different and she was happy..but she wanted something more, she just didn't know what it was. She got older, and her "new normal" was no longer fun. She got tired of people judging her because of her different hair, her different clothes, her different views, so she began to change. She fell in to line, she started to blend in. She made new friends, she had new jobs, she had a normal life, and she was happy, but she wanted something more. She searched and searched for what she was missing, but she didn't know what she was looking for. Then one day she had a break through. She realized that as long as she was being true to herself, nothing else mattered. She had to find herself. She searched everything. She prayed, she meditated, she read, she studied. She stopped listening to what others wanted her to be, she listened to what her HEART wanted her to be. She tried lots of different things, until one day she looked in the mirror, and saw herself. Not what others saw, but what her heart saw, and she was happy...but she wanted something more, she just wasn't sure what it was. She continued to be herself, making mistakes, fixing her mistakes, and living the way she wanted to. Then one day she met a boy. A very cute boy. He made her heart smile. Her heart whispered, "Here's that something you were looking for." She became friends with this boy. Then they became more than friends, then they fell in love, and then they became a couple and she was happy and thought she was done wanting more. Then one day she went to a doctor, the doctor said to her "You're going to be a mother" and the girl was shocked. The girl wasn't sure what she thought, until her heart whispered "Here it is, here's the thing you were looking for, but you didn't know you wanted." The girl was happy. The boy was happy. The couple became three, and they were all happy. The girl loved her little family and wanted more. The couple tried and tried, and finally had a little girl. The family was complete, but only for a little while. God had decided that a "normal" was not what this family needed, so he took the baby to heaven. The girl was sad but she hid it very well. She went back to acting normal, but on the inside she was screaming. She looked in the mirror and didn't see herself. She thought she's never feel normal again. Time went by and the girl started to feel better. She had a wonderful husband and a perfect little boy and she was happy. She figured she had all she needed, but her heart still wasn't healed. She still felt incomplete but she wasn't sure why. She moved with her family to a town far away in the desert. She started to live her normal life until one day she met a girl. A very funny girl. All of a sudden, the girl's heart was happy and it whispered to the girl "Here she is, a best friend for you, this is what you have been searching for, you just didn't know it." From that day on the girl was happy. She lived her life the way she wanted. She dressed the way she wanted. She opened her heart and mind to new adventures and she met new amazing people. The girl looked in the mirror and she saw herself again. The girl was happy, but she wanted something more. She moved, and moved, and moved again, each time having new adventures, meeting new people. She started to pray again, slowly. She started to realize that her searching made her feel alive. The girl is still happy but will never stop searching, and she will do it with an open mind and an open heart. Her adventure is still going strong...

Things That Break My Heart

25. Intolerance

24. Child Abuse

23. Animal Abuse

22. Drug Addicts

21. Alcoholics

20. Fathers that don't take part in their children's lives

19. Mothers that try to take too much on, and forget what's really important

18. Fake people

17. Closed-minded people

16. Destruction

15. Greed

14. Murder

13. Rape

12. over-indulgence

11. regret

10. teenagers who throw away their lives on stupid decisions

9. Teenage pregnancy

8. Porn

7. Parents who teach their children how to Hate, more than Love

6. People who just don't care anymore

5. Suicide..for any reason

4. Bullying

3. My son when he's sick!

2. Cancer

1. Divorce