Bret and I were discussing the trip to NYC and were just wondering what everyone else was planning or expecting to do while down in the city. First, we were really wanting to take the train, as Bret and I both would much rather do that than drive down as it is easier, and cool to go to grand central station. We figured that Jake Webb would want to do that as he hasn't yet. We couldn't remember if Jake Wall had taken Cari on the train or not yet so didn't know if she wanted to do that too. While down there did any of you have any idea what you wanted to do? We figured we would go to times square, empire state building, ground zero, battery park, fao Swartz, eat pizza, get peanuts and that was what we pretty much wanted to do. We didn't know if you all had anything else you wanted to do.
Jake Webb, was there anything else you wanted to do while we are in New York? We were thinking of going to the Mansions, and maybe either Minnewaska (a really cool place) or Mohaunk(sp?). Bret mostly just wants to hang out, go golfing, play tennis and basketball and eat at the cullinary.
I know Cari and Jacob are going to be there the last week, so if there are things you want to do with all of us, let us know. If you want to do things alone, too bad! J/K!!! :) We thought it would be fun if we went to Mohaunk and hiked and had lunch there at the hotel. Bret is checking on that to see what the cost would be and if they charge for hiking.
Anyhow, any input would be great so we can start budgeting out for the things we are planning on doing. I think that we will probably still be going up to New Englad for either a day or overnight as well. Hope you all are doing well. We are getting so excited to see everyone.
For Cari, and Mom and Kathy if you are interested. One of the things I want to do is go to that day spa again. Anyone interested?
Also, to Mom, are Kathy and Tommy going to be going to the City with us when we go down there? Just wondering.
Got to go get my kids to PT. Take care.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Monday, June 27, 2005
camp
as I head out to girls camp this morning, say a prayer that the ticks are few and far between, the storms are not as severe as they are predicting, the spiders don't bite, and the bats don't scare all the girls. the bat poop falls out of the ceiling as we walk, and that is gross. the mice ate big holes out of the mattresses in the nurses cabin, where I am sleeping. this should be fun!
Kathy and Fred and Sarah, Eric, and their baby Trevor come in tomorrow night for the night, so Kathy and I will run home for dinner and get a cool shower and a break.
Bret, Jarek Young lives in Phoenix now. do you want me to work on getting a phone number?
and so does Bryant Hettinger and his wife, Kristi. she is a chef at a fancy resort there, so it may be fun to have them for dinner one night.
I leave this message to all my children this week, as I already miss Tom, ( he left this morning at 4 am for scout camp), : "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth"
3 John 1:3-4?
love you all! mom
Kathy and Fred and Sarah, Eric, and their baby Trevor come in tomorrow night for the night, so Kathy and I will run home for dinner and get a cool shower and a break.
Bret, Jarek Young lives in Phoenix now. do you want me to work on getting a phone number?
and so does Bryant Hettinger and his wife, Kristi. she is a chef at a fancy resort there, so it may be fun to have them for dinner one night.
I leave this message to all my children this week, as I already miss Tom, ( he left this morning at 4 am for scout camp), : "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth"
3 John 1:3-4?
love you all! mom
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Chicken Pox??????
Well, my kids were exposed to the chicken pox by kids who have come down with them. They were exposed on the most contagious days, two days in a row! The crazy thing is, the girls who have the chicken pox were both vaccinated! My kids were also vaccinated too, but apparently this doesn't make that big of a difference. According to my friend though, this strain is very mild for the kids who have had the vaccination. This is a heads up just in case my kids break out with it. There is a chance they could by the time we leave for New York, as there is a two week gestation perioed from the time of exposure. I just hope and pray that they don't get it. Is everyone else immune or inoculated?
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
yucky day
I lost my keys, which I have never done before, ( and I think Kathy did actually), I spent weeks getting daddy to measure my front room windows for blinds, and spent $60. and none of them fit and I bought them too small and they were specially cut so I can't return them. I am so sick of working on girls camp items and problems that I don't even want to go next week, I can only drink 8 oz of fluid every hour all day and nothing after midnight cause I get my fun colonoscoly tomorrow. I got yelled at yesterday by dad and Kathy. Tom is always on the computer and has a bad back again so can't do yardwork or play sports, so I am going to my blog buddies for a bit of sympathy. yep, that feels better already. when you write it all down, it doesn't look so bad. dad just called and he's not mad at me. it isn't 114 degrees here. the kids are both gone for a 3 hour chem test, they found that little scout in UT, camp will be over soon, and you will all be here! ah, the spiral of life.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Too Hot!!!
I have just decided that it is too hot in Arizona. Now you might think that I would have already come to this conclusion years ago, but I am making it official right now on this here blog. It got up to 114 today. Almost a record, which was 115 in like 1968. Global warming anyone?
The boys and I went to a friends house (Suzette Haynie) after physical therapy to hang out and swim since we hadn't seen them in a year or so. We got in our suits and jumped in the pool, and after about 30 minutes we decided that it was just too hot even to swim. The sun was pounding on us and the sunblock on our children's faces was melting into their little eyes. So we all headed back into the sanctuary of the air conditioned house and listened to seven little kids playing together. It was nice catching up with my friend and another friend (Bridget) who popped in after hearing I would be there visiting. I am grateful for friendships that pick up right where they left off even after not having seen each other for a year.
So, back to too hot. This heat wave really couldn't come at a more inconvenient time! Our Stratus is currently being moody. Meaning that it is overheating. Well duh, you might say, it is hotter than fire and brimstone so why wouldn't the car get temperamental? We made it home from Suzette's without a hitting the H line, but I had to turn the air off, so the last five minutes to the house were very sweaty indeed! And as luck would have it, we hit every red light possible on the way home.
So being the frugal person I am , I decided to trouble shoot this problem myself. The cap on the coolant reservoir is basically non-functional, (cracked and falling off) so I whip out the handy dandy owner's manual and looked up the pertinent info. It seems that I will be able to replace the whole reservoir myself. I figure that if that is indeed the problem I will only be out the 15 bucks for the part, plus of course the ten pounds I will lose sweating to death changing it. I would hate to take it in and that be the problem and they charge me 40 bucks labor for them sweating, plus 30 bucks for the part! I hope it fixes the problem, otherwise I will have to take it in. Wish me luck on my car escapade tomorrow.
I miss you Bret. I hope no crazy people call me tonight because you know how my imagination gets going. I told Kathy and Paul that I would call them if I heard anything strange and they promised they would call 911 for me! LOL. Here's looking forward to your safe return on Friday!
The boys and I went to a friends house (Suzette Haynie) after physical therapy to hang out and swim since we hadn't seen them in a year or so. We got in our suits and jumped in the pool, and after about 30 minutes we decided that it was just too hot even to swim. The sun was pounding on us and the sunblock on our children's faces was melting into their little eyes. So we all headed back into the sanctuary of the air conditioned house and listened to seven little kids playing together. It was nice catching up with my friend and another friend (Bridget) who popped in after hearing I would be there visiting. I am grateful for friendships that pick up right where they left off even after not having seen each other for a year.
So, back to too hot. This heat wave really couldn't come at a more inconvenient time! Our Stratus is currently being moody. Meaning that it is overheating. Well duh, you might say, it is hotter than fire and brimstone so why wouldn't the car get temperamental? We made it home from Suzette's without a hitting the H line, but I had to turn the air off, so the last five minutes to the house were very sweaty indeed! And as luck would have it, we hit every red light possible on the way home.
So being the frugal person I am , I decided to trouble shoot this problem myself. The cap on the coolant reservoir is basically non-functional, (cracked and falling off) so I whip out the handy dandy owner's manual and looked up the pertinent info. It seems that I will be able to replace the whole reservoir myself. I figure that if that is indeed the problem I will only be out the 15 bucks for the part, plus of course the ten pounds I will lose sweating to death changing it. I would hate to take it in and that be the problem and they charge me 40 bucks labor for them sweating, plus 30 bucks for the part! I hope it fixes the problem, otherwise I will have to take it in. Wish me luck on my car escapade tomorrow.
I miss you Bret. I hope no crazy people call me tonight because you know how my imagination gets going. I told Kathy and Paul that I would call them if I heard anything strange and they promised they would call 911 for me! LOL. Here's looking forward to your safe return on Friday!
too nice
I have just decided I am too nice to everyone. and it seems to be a fault when I thought it was a good thing, so I guess you got it from me. oops, so sorry.
Monday, June 20, 2005
The Fragile Ego
Today I experienced some feelings I haven't felt in a while. My team had a meeting with my manager, the VP of International Operations - which we do every few months. This gives them an opportunity to give feedback directly to the VP without having to filter it through me. It also gives them an opportunity to give feedback to the VP about the Directors (me). Later on in the day I had a meeting with my boss to go over the feedback.
As a background, I have a reputation around the office as being the boss that everyone wants to work for. I'm the guy that they are "grooming" to be a future leader of the company. I am used to hearing very positive feedback. I am not used to hearing any negative feedback. And I don't expect to. Why would I? I am a great worker and have years of experience behind me that help me deal with every situation perfectly, no?
Well, I got plenty of positive feedback, but then I was given some constructive feedback that my team had shared with my boss. The feedback ranged from being too nice, to not giving enough constructive feedback, to being too happy all of the time, and being more of a leader and less of a "friend." My boss did an excellent job of sharing this information with me and letting me know that this feedback was to make me a better manager. These weren't horrible things, certainly, but areas that I can improve in order to help my team as well as become a better person.
And the truth is I would agree with all of the feedback. I am too nice sometimes. I do have difficulty sharing negative feedback with my employees. I tend to focus on the positives, and this may limit my team from progressing since I am not helping them to improve. This is all very logical, but when I am hearing it, and maybe even agreeing with it, the voice inside my head starts getting quite defensive. Excuses come into mind as I think, "yeah, well what do they know." Or "sure, I could handle it like that, but my way is better." Once in a while a voice might pop up and say, "what loser on my team said that!" And all of these are emitting from a protected, fragile thought in my mind that realizes that I am not perfect. Certainly, logically, I know I am not perfect. But it sometimes hurts to hear other people notice that. Even as I smiled and appreciated the feedback, and agreed, and wrote down notes as my boss spoke, feelings I haven't felt in a long time whirled inside of me. Feelings of fear, despair, failure, and exclusion. Had I been alone tears may have even come to my eyes.
I found this to be such an interesting reaction. Words meant to help me, and surely meant in no way to demean or discourage me, were taken to a certain point to be hurtful and cutting. Who cares if the team told her they wouldn't want to work on any other team? Who cares if they said I was the reason they worked at Prudential? There was something about me they didn't like. How could that happen? I went back to my desk and finished the day waiting to blog about it. This was fascinating to me. I never realized how immune I had become to negative feedback. I never realized, conciously at least, how fragile my ego had become.
It became very evident that we, as humans, indeed need to be humbled from time to time in order to improve. The Book of Mormon, so evident of God's wheel of humility, points this out - and we read it and say, yeah, that is great. But how true it is! On a greater scale of importance, this is what I need in the Church also. Will I do my home teaching if all I get is a phone call once every three months asking if I did it? I don't think so. I need someone to slap me in the face and say "do your home teaching or you are going to hell" - or something equivalent to that. And I need to believe it. The prophets talk about how if we do not improve, we are just getting worse. We must progress or fall. There is no neutral ground.
And so, just weeks after my ego-tripping blog, I am put back into my place. I am not perfect. I am not the perfect manager. I can, and must, improve. I owe it to myself, my team, and my employer. How much more do I owe my family and friends; my God? What if we had monthly meetings with God on our progress here? Could we survive letting down our God? Is this why he leaves us alone to have faith? Letting him down would destroy our egos. And yet we do it every day.
Tomorrow I head back to work with a team that knows I am not perfect. I go back with goals to improve. I go back with my head a little lower, my strut a little smaller. I go back knowing I can improve. I go back knowing that my ego is fragile. I go back knowing I am human. I go back hoping God doesn't come visit me and give me some constructive feedback.
As a background, I have a reputation around the office as being the boss that everyone wants to work for. I'm the guy that they are "grooming" to be a future leader of the company. I am used to hearing very positive feedback. I am not used to hearing any negative feedback. And I don't expect to. Why would I? I am a great worker and have years of experience behind me that help me deal with every situation perfectly, no?
Well, I got plenty of positive feedback, but then I was given some constructive feedback that my team had shared with my boss. The feedback ranged from being too nice, to not giving enough constructive feedback, to being too happy all of the time, and being more of a leader and less of a "friend." My boss did an excellent job of sharing this information with me and letting me know that this feedback was to make me a better manager. These weren't horrible things, certainly, but areas that I can improve in order to help my team as well as become a better person.
And the truth is I would agree with all of the feedback. I am too nice sometimes. I do have difficulty sharing negative feedback with my employees. I tend to focus on the positives, and this may limit my team from progressing since I am not helping them to improve. This is all very logical, but when I am hearing it, and maybe even agreeing with it, the voice inside my head starts getting quite defensive. Excuses come into mind as I think, "yeah, well what do they know." Or "sure, I could handle it like that, but my way is better." Once in a while a voice might pop up and say, "what loser on my team said that!" And all of these are emitting from a protected, fragile thought in my mind that realizes that I am not perfect. Certainly, logically, I know I am not perfect. But it sometimes hurts to hear other people notice that. Even as I smiled and appreciated the feedback, and agreed, and wrote down notes as my boss spoke, feelings I haven't felt in a long time whirled inside of me. Feelings of fear, despair, failure, and exclusion. Had I been alone tears may have even come to my eyes.
I found this to be such an interesting reaction. Words meant to help me, and surely meant in no way to demean or discourage me, were taken to a certain point to be hurtful and cutting. Who cares if the team told her they wouldn't want to work on any other team? Who cares if they said I was the reason they worked at Prudential? There was something about me they didn't like. How could that happen? I went back to my desk and finished the day waiting to blog about it. This was fascinating to me. I never realized how immune I had become to negative feedback. I never realized, conciously at least, how fragile my ego had become.
It became very evident that we, as humans, indeed need to be humbled from time to time in order to improve. The Book of Mormon, so evident of God's wheel of humility, points this out - and we read it and say, yeah, that is great. But how true it is! On a greater scale of importance, this is what I need in the Church also. Will I do my home teaching if all I get is a phone call once every three months asking if I did it? I don't think so. I need someone to slap me in the face and say "do your home teaching or you are going to hell" - or something equivalent to that. And I need to believe it. The prophets talk about how if we do not improve, we are just getting worse. We must progress or fall. There is no neutral ground.
And so, just weeks after my ego-tripping blog, I am put back into my place. I am not perfect. I am not the perfect manager. I can, and must, improve. I owe it to myself, my team, and my employer. How much more do I owe my family and friends; my God? What if we had monthly meetings with God on our progress here? Could we survive letting down our God? Is this why he leaves us alone to have faith? Letting him down would destroy our egos. And yet we do it every day.
Tomorrow I head back to work with a team that knows I am not perfect. I go back with goals to improve. I go back with my head a little lower, my strut a little smaller. I go back knowing I can improve. I go back knowing that my ego is fragile. I go back knowing I am human. I go back hoping God doesn't come visit me and give me some constructive feedback.
weekend warior
Ok, so this last weekend I went on a couple of dates. You remember the 29 year old (Angela)?... So were supposed to go out last Wednesday, but I called and cancled on her becuase I forgot about a city league soccer game I had on Wednesday... but I told her I'd give her a call sometime to go out next week, or something. Well, she ended up calling me on Thursday and asked if I would go with her to an art show in Salt Lake because she has a friend that was displaying art there. I said yes and we went out for sushi at Benihana's then to the show. It was a fun date. Afterwards I dropped her off without having any plans for a third but we left the door open for it.
Well... the next day (Saturday) I was golfing with my roommmates from last year and I got a text messege from her. She asked me if I wanted to come over that night to make and eat pizza and watch Star Wars (Episode IV). We had talked about watching the original trilogy before, but I was thinking we would start the day after a date... but, I said it sounded fun, and we set a time.
We made pizza, and watched the movie. It was a good "date" and I still think she's very cute and fun... However... I'm not sure if I really see it going anywhere. We've talked about her ex-husband. They seem to be good friends still and he is very involved in their son's life. She didn't really have a reason for why they got divorced other than "it just didn't work out"... she also threw out the "I was too young when I got married" excuse. I think she was 20, they were married for 7 years, and have been divorced for 2.
Anyway... I don't know what to do. I'm not sure there is anything I should do. I don't get the impression that she's really all that into me, or that she's getting emotionally attached... it seems more like we're becoming "good friends, no benefits" kind of a thing. So at this point, I don't think I need to really bring up questions about the future of our relationship with her... do I?
Well... the next day (Saturday) I was golfing with my roommmates from last year and I got a text messege from her. She asked me if I wanted to come over that night to make and eat pizza and watch Star Wars (Episode IV). We had talked about watching the original trilogy before, but I was thinking we would start the day after a date... but, I said it sounded fun, and we set a time.
We made pizza, and watched the movie. It was a good "date" and I still think she's very cute and fun... However... I'm not sure if I really see it going anywhere. We've talked about her ex-husband. They seem to be good friends still and he is very involved in their son's life. She didn't really have a reason for why they got divorced other than "it just didn't work out"... she also threw out the "I was too young when I got married" excuse. I think she was 20, they were married for 7 years, and have been divorced for 2.
Anyway... I don't know what to do. I'm not sure there is anything I should do. I don't get the impression that she's really all that into me, or that she's getting emotionally attached... it seems more like we're becoming "good friends, no benefits" kind of a thing. So at this point, I don't think I need to really bring up questions about the future of our relationship with her... do I?
Saturday, June 18, 2005
The Scarlet Pimpernel
I was supposed to write this blog over a week ago, but anyway...
So a week or so ago, Jacob took me to see the Scarlet Pimpernel at an outdoor theater in Orem. Despite what he might think about it, it was a very fun date. He said that if it was a good date, I should write a blog about it, so yes, fiancee of mine, it was a good date! It did rain and the people sitting right in front of us did put up a monstrous umbrella that blocked the stage, but it was still fun. :-) The play itself was really well done and I had never seen it before, so that added to the excitement. There was this stray cat the tried to join the performance during the first act, but honestly, that was funny. I did feel bad for the actors when the cat ruined some of the more dramatic moments, but what can you do? The story was good, but I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give anything away. Just if you ever get the chance to see the Scarlet Pimpernel, go for it.
So a week or so ago, Jacob took me to see the Scarlet Pimpernel at an outdoor theater in Orem. Despite what he might think about it, it was a very fun date. He said that if it was a good date, I should write a blog about it, so yes, fiancee of mine, it was a good date! It did rain and the people sitting right in front of us did put up a monstrous umbrella that blocked the stage, but it was still fun. :-) The play itself was really well done and I had never seen it before, so that added to the excitement. There was this stray cat the tried to join the performance during the first act, but honestly, that was funny. I did feel bad for the actors when the cat ruined some of the more dramatic moments, but what can you do? The story was good, but I don't want to say too much because I don't want to give anything away. Just if you ever get the chance to see the Scarlet Pimpernel, go for it.
Monday, June 13, 2005
Work Drama and Sonicare
I think one of my "talents" is to remain calm and have a calming effect on people. This is particularly helpful as a manager. My team is almost always under control, happy (content), and professional. Don't be fooled that all teams and workplaces are like this. We have one particular team in my department that thrives on drama. In my opinion, the team tends to reflect the personality of its manager, so... This week we had an employee who was a good employee not show up on Friday. Her manager thought that was kind of weird and called her. Nobody answered. Then the manager received a call from HR saying that the employee had filed for disability the day before and was going to be out for a few months. There was no explanation, nothing. Finally the manager was able to get hold of her on Sunday and the employee said she did not wish to discuss the matter and that she would let her know if she was ever coming back.
So today we spent hours in meetings to try and figure out what to do with her caseload. It drives me crazy. How can her manager not know what was going on? How can someone be so strange? I know responsibility is not something everybody has, but at a certain point you expect people to have it. This team is notorious for drama; this is the second person in a month to basically have a nervous breakdown and have to leave. Remember folks, we are not brain scientists here. We move people from country to country. Sure, it can be stressful, but so can playing Nintendo! It's a state of mind.
On a lighter note, it is always fun to find a product that changes your life. Not in a way that it is so dramatic, but that you change your habits that you never thought would change. Like soap. Who would have guessed 10 years ago that almost nobody would be buying bar soap? For my birthday I got a Sonicare toothbrush (thanks mom and dad). I am a person who has always taken good care of his teeth - even flossing recently. But I always have brushed my teeth. This toothbrush makes my teeth feel so good! It really is amazing. I can't imagine going back to a regular toothbrush (except while traveling, etc.). My teeth file like they do after the dentist - every day. Products like this impress me and I hope they guy that came up with this gets rich. S/he deserves it (hey, it could have been a girl).
Tevia was in a giving mood and we purchased a nice home theater system this week. It has been fun watching Star Wars and other movies in digital sound with a big subwoofer. It completely changes the whole movie-watching experience. Good stuff. Thanks Tevs.
And finally, congrats Jake (BP) and Cari for setting another date. Good luck - and if I have to cancel my tickets again, I'll come collect the fee from you guys in happy valley. :-)
So today we spent hours in meetings to try and figure out what to do with her caseload. It drives me crazy. How can her manager not know what was going on? How can someone be so strange? I know responsibility is not something everybody has, but at a certain point you expect people to have it. This team is notorious for drama; this is the second person in a month to basically have a nervous breakdown and have to leave. Remember folks, we are not brain scientists here. We move people from country to country. Sure, it can be stressful, but so can playing Nintendo! It's a state of mind.
On a lighter note, it is always fun to find a product that changes your life. Not in a way that it is so dramatic, but that you change your habits that you never thought would change. Like soap. Who would have guessed 10 years ago that almost nobody would be buying bar soap? For my birthday I got a Sonicare toothbrush (thanks mom and dad). I am a person who has always taken good care of his teeth - even flossing recently. But I always have brushed my teeth. This toothbrush makes my teeth feel so good! It really is amazing. I can't imagine going back to a regular toothbrush (except while traveling, etc.). My teeth file like they do after the dentist - every day. Products like this impress me and I hope they guy that came up with this gets rich. S/he deserves it (hey, it could have been a girl).
Tevia was in a giving mood and we purchased a nice home theater system this week. It has been fun watching Star Wars and other movies in digital sound with a big subwoofer. It completely changes the whole movie-watching experience. Good stuff. Thanks Tevs.
And finally, congrats Jake (BP) and Cari for setting another date. Good luck - and if I have to cancel my tickets again, I'll come collect the fee from you guys in happy valley. :-)
Sunday, June 12, 2005
The Date
So I went on a date yesterday with a girl that is couple of months older than Tevia and has a 6-year old son. She's not LDS, or at least I'm pretty sure she's not, but it was a really good date. We had planned to go on a fairly normal date, (dinner and a movie type) but I found out yesterday was "free fishing day" in Utah. Since she and I both like fishing (you know, not our FAVORITE thing to do, but haven't been in a long while, and it's out of the ordinary so....) we decided to do that pretty much last minute. (night before). She lives in Sandy (for those of you not familiar with Utah cities, Sandy is about halfway between where I live in Provo and Salt Lake... so it's about 30 minutes away). I was going to be in Salt Lake Saturday morning for a former co-worker's birthday lunch at Red Rock Restaurant, so the plan was to go pick her up after my lunch, which I assumed would be done around 3 or so.
Well, I assumed correctly and we finished at 3. I called Angela (my date) to get directions to her place. When I got there she was still watching her son as well as her roommate's daughter while her roommate was at a funeral that should have been over at about 3. We waited around with the two very energetic kids for about and hour and a half. I didn't mind the kids at all since I do like kids, even though I'm not used to them being so energetic because I'm used to Jarek and Malik. Anyway, I could tell Angela was VERY ready to leave when her roommate finally returned close to 5.
It was now raining but we were pretty set on going fishing, just because... and I had it planned to go to Jordenelle Reservoir since the fishing reports I read were saying that's where the best fishing was... so that was a good half hour - 45 min drive to south of Park City on the other side of the Wasatch front. We were hoping the weather would be a little better over there but the more we pressed on the harder it rained. When we finally got there, the rain actually stopped, although it was still quite cold.
She was going to get her own pole, but was unable to, and I only had one which I had bought earlier that day. So I strung it up and would cast then she would reel it in. after a while I convinced her to try casting which she did. It was a pretty funny site to see, but she eventually got the hang of it and we took turns fishing for a while. Then it started to rain again (and it was getting late, and we were getting hungry) so we decided to head back and hit up a restaurant in Park City on the way back. We found a little place called "The Loco Lizard" which was a really good Mexican food place. (by good I mean decent salsa, homemade, decent tortillas, and really good beans... all the makings of a good Mexican food restaurant). I got the mole poblano, and although it wasn't as good as what I've had from members in Texas, I still liked it.
It was about 10 o'clock when I got her home and we both seemed to have a good time. I know I probably shouldn't even bother pursuing this but the sad thing is, she has been the best company I've had on a date for about a year or so. I am taking her out again this week, and I guess I'll just see how things go for now.
ps. No, we didn't catch any fish... no bits either... but it was still a good trip.
Well, I assumed correctly and we finished at 3. I called Angela (my date) to get directions to her place. When I got there she was still watching her son as well as her roommate's daughter while her roommate was at a funeral that should have been over at about 3. We waited around with the two very energetic kids for about and hour and a half. I didn't mind the kids at all since I do like kids, even though I'm not used to them being so energetic because I'm used to Jarek and Malik. Anyway, I could tell Angela was VERY ready to leave when her roommate finally returned close to 5.
It was now raining but we were pretty set on going fishing, just because... and I had it planned to go to Jordenelle Reservoir since the fishing reports I read were saying that's where the best fishing was... so that was a good half hour - 45 min drive to south of Park City on the other side of the Wasatch front. We were hoping the weather would be a little better over there but the more we pressed on the harder it rained. When we finally got there, the rain actually stopped, although it was still quite cold.
She was going to get her own pole, but was unable to, and I only had one which I had bought earlier that day. So I strung it up and would cast then she would reel it in. after a while I convinced her to try casting which she did. It was a pretty funny site to see, but she eventually got the hang of it and we took turns fishing for a while. Then it started to rain again (and it was getting late, and we were getting hungry) so we decided to head back and hit up a restaurant in Park City on the way back. We found a little place called "The Loco Lizard" which was a really good Mexican food place. (by good I mean decent salsa, homemade, decent tortillas, and really good beans... all the makings of a good Mexican food restaurant). I got the mole poblano, and although it wasn't as good as what I've had from members in Texas, I still liked it.
It was about 10 o'clock when I got her home and we both seemed to have a good time. I know I probably shouldn't even bother pursuing this but the sad thing is, she has been the best company I've had on a date for about a year or so. I am taking her out again this week, and I guess I'll just see how things go for now.
ps. No, we didn't catch any fish... no bits either... but it was still a good trip.
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
happy happy birthday
To my Bret, who I have loved since the day he came into my life, when I was alone and scared, and he became a tiny but strong companion as I traveled new paths. You deserve a great day1 You already have a wonderful life, so it is hard to wish more for you- but of course, I do. We send you more wishes for peace, love, and happiness. May the windows of heaven continue to pour upon you as you lead your family along their path. You are doing a great job, and have used your 31 years well.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
Rwanda and Shadow of the Giant
Two mediums of entertainment have really touched me this weekend. The first is the movie Hotel Rwanda, which I have wanted to see since it came out in theaters months ago. The second is Orson Scott Card's newest book Shadow of the Giant.
Hotel Rwanda, with a stellar cast including Don Cheadle (one of my favorite actors) did a fantastic job of helping understand what it is like to go through a genocide in your country - and what one man can do. How often do we say I can't make a difference. This man made a difference and literally saved thousands of lives. This whole thing happened while I was in Brazil (1994), so I admit I was not very informed. The director does a great job of making you feel the emotions without trying to be propaganda - like many films do. The film helped me feel like my goals in life are worthy. I do want to make a difference in this world - not on a global scale, but to help at the individual level. I want to serve with my wife in a third-world country and get to know the local culture and share with them the greatest gift they can receive - the gospel of Jesus Christ. I look forward to that day. I know that missionaries are needed in every country including the USA, but I have crafted my whole profession to date to be able to serve in countries like Rwanda, Brazil, etc. We are so blessed in this country and so few realize it. I am often ashamed of how blessed we are.
The movie also fits well with my belief that the USA should stand up and take a Hegemonic role in the world. We have the money, the army, and the values to do so. I am sick and tired of people wanting the USA to avoid getting involved in the troubles of other countries. We should be involved. We should be willing to sacrifice our money, and yes, even the lives of our own children, to help those around us. The Hegemonic theory is studied and debated often in schools like Thunderbird, and I think in the USA we see a trend that may end our hegemonic involvement. I believe the world needs a hegemony to keep peace and protect those that can not protect themselves. I know this is a controversial topic, but I am a firm believer. No, I do not serve in the military, but I would be willing if necessary. We are a Christian nation with the money and ideals to change the world. We have done so for nearly 75 years now, and I believe we are the only country that can continue to do so.
This is a great segue to Orson Scott Card's book - coincidentally the follow up to his last book the Shadow of the Hegemon. (I understand that not everybody is familiar with the term Hegemon. If not, look it up). This is the final book in his "Ender's Shadow" series. I am a huge fan of OSC, but would have to say that the past two books, while entertaining, were not in my mind great works. This book, however, brings back the OSC I love with his great insight into politics, military, and the human psyche. We really get to know Peter, Ender's older brother, from a different perspective. OSC also does a great job of throwing in his own beliefs about the ideals of family, love, and religion. While many may find this offensive, I find it refreshing - though admittedly this might be due to the fact that I agree with his feelings. It was a book that brings hope and logic to how the world might one day unite as one. We are all brothers and sisters - even if many don't want that to be the case.
So this weekend my mind has pondered my role in this world - and prompted me to think if I am trying to make a difference. I don't want to be the citizen of the world that sits and lets things happen. I want to create change that I believe to be right. I am happy to say that on one hand I am going down that path. My largest goal in life - to one day serve missions with the ultimate companion in Brazil and other nations - is going well. I am still a believer of the gospel, which is essential to this plan, and I have patterned my career to provide me a greater ability to do so by not only providing the money necessary, but also the international skills (including language capabilities and cultural understanding) to help realize that dream. On the other hand, I find myself too complacent when it comes to government and leading those around me. Don't get me wrong, it is not that I believe I should be a leader, or have the talents and skills to do so. It is more that if I don't then we find ourselves with leaders that want to be leaders - and usually lack an understanding of the people they lead. I will strive to change this in my life - and not just in the secular world, but in the religious world also.
And thus a philosophical weekend leads up to my birthday this week. I often think of myself as being so young, and so don't want to rock the boat or involve myself. But I am no longer young. It is time to stand up. This is the weakness of my generation and the ones that follow. We are treated as children by the older generations. They do not let us grow old, and thus we shirk responsibility. Unfortunately, this will have a grave impact on the older generations as they begin to retire. They will find they have no children to take care of them - for they will not have reached the maturity to do so.
Hotel Rwanda, with a stellar cast including Don Cheadle (one of my favorite actors) did a fantastic job of helping understand what it is like to go through a genocide in your country - and what one man can do. How often do we say I can't make a difference. This man made a difference and literally saved thousands of lives. This whole thing happened while I was in Brazil (1994), so I admit I was not very informed. The director does a great job of making you feel the emotions without trying to be propaganda - like many films do. The film helped me feel like my goals in life are worthy. I do want to make a difference in this world - not on a global scale, but to help at the individual level. I want to serve with my wife in a third-world country and get to know the local culture and share with them the greatest gift they can receive - the gospel of Jesus Christ. I look forward to that day. I know that missionaries are needed in every country including the USA, but I have crafted my whole profession to date to be able to serve in countries like Rwanda, Brazil, etc. We are so blessed in this country and so few realize it. I am often ashamed of how blessed we are.
The movie also fits well with my belief that the USA should stand up and take a Hegemonic role in the world. We have the money, the army, and the values to do so. I am sick and tired of people wanting the USA to avoid getting involved in the troubles of other countries. We should be involved. We should be willing to sacrifice our money, and yes, even the lives of our own children, to help those around us. The Hegemonic theory is studied and debated often in schools like Thunderbird, and I think in the USA we see a trend that may end our hegemonic involvement. I believe the world needs a hegemony to keep peace and protect those that can not protect themselves. I know this is a controversial topic, but I am a firm believer. No, I do not serve in the military, but I would be willing if necessary. We are a Christian nation with the money and ideals to change the world. We have done so for nearly 75 years now, and I believe we are the only country that can continue to do so.
This is a great segue to Orson Scott Card's book - coincidentally the follow up to his last book the Shadow of the Hegemon. (I understand that not everybody is familiar with the term Hegemon. If not, look it up). This is the final book in his "Ender's Shadow" series. I am a huge fan of OSC, but would have to say that the past two books, while entertaining, were not in my mind great works. This book, however, brings back the OSC I love with his great insight into politics, military, and the human psyche. We really get to know Peter, Ender's older brother, from a different perspective. OSC also does a great job of throwing in his own beliefs about the ideals of family, love, and religion. While many may find this offensive, I find it refreshing - though admittedly this might be due to the fact that I agree with his feelings. It was a book that brings hope and logic to how the world might one day unite as one. We are all brothers and sisters - even if many don't want that to be the case.
So this weekend my mind has pondered my role in this world - and prompted me to think if I am trying to make a difference. I don't want to be the citizen of the world that sits and lets things happen. I want to create change that I believe to be right. I am happy to say that on one hand I am going down that path. My largest goal in life - to one day serve missions with the ultimate companion in Brazil and other nations - is going well. I am still a believer of the gospel, which is essential to this plan, and I have patterned my career to provide me a greater ability to do so by not only providing the money necessary, but also the international skills (including language capabilities and cultural understanding) to help realize that dream. On the other hand, I find myself too complacent when it comes to government and leading those around me. Don't get me wrong, it is not that I believe I should be a leader, or have the talents and skills to do so. It is more that if I don't then we find ourselves with leaders that want to be leaders - and usually lack an understanding of the people they lead. I will strive to change this in my life - and not just in the secular world, but in the religious world also.
And thus a philosophical weekend leads up to my birthday this week. I often think of myself as being so young, and so don't want to rock the boat or involve myself. But I am no longer young. It is time to stand up. This is the weakness of my generation and the ones that follow. We are treated as children by the older generations. They do not let us grow old, and thus we shirk responsibility. Unfortunately, this will have a grave impact on the older generations as they begin to retire. They will find they have no children to take care of them - for they will not have reached the maturity to do so.
dad and I are callingless, and today is Boomers birthday
Yep, poor old dad is getting released today from ward mission leader. he doesn't have a clue why. it was done poorly, as the bishop just called him in after the baptism last sunday night and said, "after Maya's baptism next saturday, you are done". no thanks, no you did a great job, no reason, nada. dad thinks of course that the bishop just doesn't like him in PEC or running anything. so both of us must be somehow black-listed, or, as jacob thinks, getting something new that the bishop didn't tell us. dad is sad. he has had such success, loves his missionaries, and does a great job.
and Kathy, hello, where are you older brothers in her life?????? and sister-in -laws, including Cari and Jacob webb. she is so happy today because the bishops son turns 16 today. good grief. he got mad at her last saturday cause she 'talked' to Scott too much. he got mad friday night at the seminary auction when he didn't win the clown bike. he is so immature compared to her. I really don't see what she sees in him. I guess it is safety. so as a mother I should be happy. she certainly won't be doing alot of necking this year, even if he does actually get to date her. they are all going on a triple date this coming friday. I think it will all spell trouble, and when she does break his heart, which she will probably break at least 10 more guys hearts, the bishop will give her a terrible BYU referral, cause he is like that. but what can I do, I can't make her unlike someone she thinks she loves. I wish all of you were here and could constantly give her great dating and guy advice. but I guess that she has to have her own experiences. she is so amazing, so valuable, so cute, she could get any boyfriend she wants, and she always picks guys I would least expect. Now that I wrote all this, I really should be happy. it is better than meeting a guy she really loves and then goes steady with and gets too serious with. so I guess she is fine and doesn't need any advice yet. I will let you know. stay in her life though. she looks up to all of you. mom
and Kathy, hello, where are you older brothers in her life?????? and sister-in -laws, including Cari and Jacob webb. she is so happy today because the bishops son turns 16 today. good grief. he got mad at her last saturday cause she 'talked' to Scott too much. he got mad friday night at the seminary auction when he didn't win the clown bike. he is so immature compared to her. I really don't see what she sees in him. I guess it is safety. so as a mother I should be happy. she certainly won't be doing alot of necking this year, even if he does actually get to date her. they are all going on a triple date this coming friday. I think it will all spell trouble, and when she does break his heart, which she will probably break at least 10 more guys hearts, the bishop will give her a terrible BYU referral, cause he is like that. but what can I do, I can't make her unlike someone she thinks she loves. I wish all of you were here and could constantly give her great dating and guy advice. but I guess that she has to have her own experiences. she is so amazing, so valuable, so cute, she could get any boyfriend she wants, and she always picks guys I would least expect. Now that I wrote all this, I really should be happy. it is better than meeting a guy she really loves and then goes steady with and gets too serious with. so I guess she is fine and doesn't need any advice yet. I will let you know. stay in her life though. she looks up to all of you. mom
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Driving School
So, I was in driving school for eight hours today. HOW DULL!!!!! I had a really hard time staying awake due to the fact that I spent about two hours crying my eyeballs out last night after watching a movie with Bret. That hasn't happened to me in a LONG time. Crying from a movie that is. We watched Hotel Rawanda and I was so moved and upset by it. I knew vaguely what had happened there, but seeing it in a movie really made me feel sad and horrified with humanity. I know that the genocide in Rawanda is just one example of human atrocity. There are countless other examples in this world of how humans are despicable, but knowing that doesn't make the reality of it any easier to accept. The whole time I just kept thinking over and over how disappointed and anguished God must be with his children and wondering how he is going to sort everything out in the end. I know that the blood of the righteous (and I believe innocent) will stand as testimoy against those who shed it, but I don't envy the job He has of sorting everyone out at the end.
Anyhow, back to my original thoughts. Driving school. You can imagine how puffy I was in the morning after two hours of sobbing, for that is what I did. My eyes were stinging and my head was pounding and having to listen to the droning of the instructor was almost more than I could stand. I'll just add this other little tid bit in since it made me wonder....(and made Bret think I am kookoo for wondering) At the beginning of the class I was sitting by this woman and we were talking and getting along fine. Then, after lunch break, she moved away, where as everyone else stayed where they were before lunch break. Did I smell funny? The bad part about it was this, a big fat guy came and sat where she had been sitting before. Now the chairs in this room were rather small and very close together. So he technically hung over both sides of his chair spilling onto mine and the guy on the other side of him. And, he was smelly. And I was freezing because they had the temperature down to like 65 degrees. He was not cold, due to all the extra layers of fat and skin, so he kept fanning himself and spreading his B.O. smell in my direction. Not pleasant. I finally got up and walked around the class so that I wouldn't fall asleep or pass out from the smell. Anyhow, that is how my driving class went down. Did I learn anything? Not really. I am already a defensive driver. But, at least I don't get the points on my license.
So that is that. My Saturday pretty much down the tubes. At least It didn't last twelve hours. For which I am very grateful.
Anyhow, back to my original thoughts. Driving school. You can imagine how puffy I was in the morning after two hours of sobbing, for that is what I did. My eyes were stinging and my head was pounding and having to listen to the droning of the instructor was almost more than I could stand. I'll just add this other little tid bit in since it made me wonder....(and made Bret think I am kookoo for wondering) At the beginning of the class I was sitting by this woman and we were talking and getting along fine. Then, after lunch break, she moved away, where as everyone else stayed where they were before lunch break. Did I smell funny? The bad part about it was this, a big fat guy came and sat where she had been sitting before. Now the chairs in this room were rather small and very close together. So he technically hung over both sides of his chair spilling onto mine and the guy on the other side of him. And, he was smelly. And I was freezing because they had the temperature down to like 65 degrees. He was not cold, due to all the extra layers of fat and skin, so he kept fanning himself and spreading his B.O. smell in my direction. Not pleasant. I finally got up and walked around the class so that I wouldn't fall asleep or pass out from the smell. Anyhow, that is how my driving class went down. Did I learn anything? Not really. I am already a defensive driver. But, at least I don't get the points on my license.
So that is that. My Saturday pretty much down the tubes. At least It didn't last twelve hours. For which I am very grateful.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Grand Rapids and a free Koran
Tuesday I left work at noon to head to the Phoenix airport. I boarded a "Ted" plane and endured the long trip via Chicago to Grand Rapids, Michigan. I used to think that business trips were fun, but most are certainly not. I arrived at the hotel in GR around 11 PM. It took me a good few hours to fall asleep as I watched cable - something I don't really have. They had an odd show about real life bounty hunters. It was certainly interesting. I finally fell asleep around 3 AM and was woken up by the wake up call at 6. I got up, showered, shaved, put on my suit and headed down to the breakfast where I met up with the account executive. I was in GR, by the way, to visit one of our clients - Steelcase. Steelcase is the company that probably made the office furniture you might enjoy at your place of work. The office was beautiful with a nice waterfall inside.
The meeting went well as I discuss international compensation and expense management along with my colleague Cindy Yakowicz. By 4:30 it was time to leave and I went back to the airport. My flight out wasn't until 7 or so, so I tried to get another flight out earlier. Believe it or not, I was successful due to the wonderful customer service of a guy at the Northwest Airlines counter. I flew back (without a movie!) and got back here around 9:30 PM. That is a LOT of flying time in a 36 hour period. Even worse I don't get any mileage for it since the airlines I try to fly (America West and American) don't fly to Grand Rapids. I must admit that Grand Rapids was quite beautiful. It even reminded me of NY with all of the green, trees, and big yards.
I got back in the office this morning and had received 200 emails in the day I was out! I was on a two hour conference call in which I was able to read the news while I listened to inane chatter and found that there is a Muslim group giving away free Korans (Qu'rans). I ordered one - and it really seemed to lift my spirits. It comes at a time while I am reading Orson Scott Card's (OSC) new book Shadow of the Giant. Islam is discussed at length in this outstanding read, so I was excited to order this book.
On a slightly different note, we rented In Good Company last week, about a young man who is on the fast track at work and ends up managing people the age of his parents. In the end, he realizes that though he is successful he really wants what some of his employees have: a family and a reason to live. I enjoyed the film (though it wasn't awesome), but it really made me feel grateful, for I truly believe I have both of these things. I have a wonderful career and reputation at Prudential - yet I have not had to sacrifice a wonderful family in order to achieve it. Thus is the beauty of the gospel, and I am grateful for all that I have. Even when Tevia threatens to abandon Jarek and I for Memorial Day I know that I have more than most men. I'm sorry Tevs - I guess it is hard for women to understand the friendships between men. True friends, in my eyes, are people who never have to ask to come over - and are always welcome in my home. It has been years since I have had a friend like that. There is no reason to have to "clean up" or "prepare." They become like family.
The meeting went well as I discuss international compensation and expense management along with my colleague Cindy Yakowicz. By 4:30 it was time to leave and I went back to the airport. My flight out wasn't until 7 or so, so I tried to get another flight out earlier. Believe it or not, I was successful due to the wonderful customer service of a guy at the Northwest Airlines counter. I flew back (without a movie!) and got back here around 9:30 PM. That is a LOT of flying time in a 36 hour period. Even worse I don't get any mileage for it since the airlines I try to fly (America West and American) don't fly to Grand Rapids. I must admit that Grand Rapids was quite beautiful. It even reminded me of NY with all of the green, trees, and big yards.
I got back in the office this morning and had received 200 emails in the day I was out! I was on a two hour conference call in which I was able to read the news while I listened to inane chatter and found that there is a Muslim group giving away free Korans (Qu'rans). I ordered one - and it really seemed to lift my spirits. It comes at a time while I am reading Orson Scott Card's (OSC) new book Shadow of the Giant. Islam is discussed at length in this outstanding read, so I was excited to order this book.
On a slightly different note, we rented In Good Company last week, about a young man who is on the fast track at work and ends up managing people the age of his parents. In the end, he realizes that though he is successful he really wants what some of his employees have: a family and a reason to live. I enjoyed the film (though it wasn't awesome), but it really made me feel grateful, for I truly believe I have both of these things. I have a wonderful career and reputation at Prudential - yet I have not had to sacrifice a wonderful family in order to achieve it. Thus is the beauty of the gospel, and I am grateful for all that I have. Even when Tevia threatens to abandon Jarek and I for Memorial Day I know that I have more than most men. I'm sorry Tevs - I guess it is hard for women to understand the friendships between men. True friends, in my eyes, are people who never have to ask to come over - and are always welcome in my home. It has been years since I have had a friend like that. There is no reason to have to "clean up" or "prepare." They become like family.
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