Okay, so dad I have been counting numbers for 2 full weeks: dad carbs and I, calories.
Dad's sugar levels were up & down throughout the holidays, so he has been much more careful and it really keeps his levels even.
I have stayed under 1,500 calories, no cheating, I promise, for 2 full weeks, and lost 1/2 lb.
And I am exercising.
What the pie am I doing wrong?
How many calories should an old lady like me have per day? Is 1,500 still too much?
I haven't even had any chocolate at all, or not a single cookie. I only weigh myself on Fridays, so I don't get discouraged.
Tadah! Today is Friday, and I am discouraged and ever so tempted to just go buy some m&ms.
Dad says I look thinner, but?
Any suggestions out there?
Why do all these new diets on all the popular TV shows say, "lose 5 lbs in a week"?
That must be when you are young and under 50.
I told dad I would do it for one month, as it is hard to count everything, especially when you cook from scratch like we do. We add it all together and actually use measuring cups to see how much we are eating.
Dad is doing great! And he weighs less than me, so sad.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Pathfinder
I can't even think of the last time that I book I read inspired me this much! I am not saying the book was one of those, entertaining- I can't put it down kinds.
It made me want to be a better person, to discipline myself more, to learn more, to gain more skills and develop more talents. It encouraged me to keep studying scriptures and gaining knowledge.
It was hard to follow in some cases, (maybe not for some of you, but for me), so I may actually read it again.
I love the was the author throws in deep Mormon doctrine here and there.
I love books about time travel, as I know it is a real concept and just another dimension.
Great read!
It made me want to be a better person, to discipline myself more, to learn more, to gain more skills and develop more talents. It encouraged me to keep studying scriptures and gaining knowledge.
It was hard to follow in some cases, (maybe not for some of you, but for me), so I may actually read it again.
I love the was the author throws in deep Mormon doctrine here and there.
I love books about time travel, as I know it is a real concept and just another dimension.
Great read!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Favorites 2011
Yeah, I don't know if these count as 2010 favorites late or what. But here are the results of last night's FHE festivities:
Speed passed due to his non-ability to say anything besides "dada", "baba", and "mama" (which he only says when he's really upset).
Risa also played but I never got her paper and I didn't want to try to just remember them because I'd probably get them wrong and say her favorite fictional character was Bella Swan. And then she'd have to throw a pencil at my head. :-D
| Bret | Tevia | |
| Color | Red | Green |
| Animal | Otter | Horse |
| Actor/Actress | Angelina Jolie | Chris Evans |
| Food | Chicken Tikka Masala | Mexican Food |
| Fictional Character | Boba Fett | NOT ANSWERED |
| Item of Clothing | Basketball shorts | Workout Clothes |
| Weapon | Lightsaber | Mace |
| Instrument | Drum | Piano |
| Candy Bar | Kit Kat | Reeses PB Cup |
| Media Type | Books | Books |
| Jarek | Malik | |
| Color | Red | Ceurlean |
| Animal | Cheetah | Lion |
| Actor/Actress | Jack Black | NOT ANSWERED |
| Food | Homemade Cruchy Tacos | Bacon & Sausage |
| Fictional Character | Tom Dennis Fitzgerald | Oshawat |
| Item of Clothing | Turtlenecks | Socks |
| Weapon | Laser Scythe Three Blaster Extension | M.O.A.B. (Mother of All Bombs) |
| Instrument | Crash Cymbals | Electricity |
| Candy Bar | Nestle Crunch | Hershey Bar |
| Media Type | Books | Nintendo |
| Enok | Hazel | |
| Color | Green | Purple |
| Animal | Sheep | Horsie |
| Actor/Actress | NOT ANSWERED | Tom Kenny (voice of Spongebob) |
| Food | Noodles | Fruit Snacks |
| Fictional Character | Mario | Dora |
| Item of Clothing | Shirt & Pants | Happy Birthday Shirt |
| Weapon | Gun | Eek |
| Instrument | NOT ANSWERED | Drums |
| Candy Bar | Chocolate Bar | Milky Way |
| Media Type | NOT ANSWERED | TV |
| Jacob | Cari | |
| Color | Orange | Green |
| Animal | Water Monitor | Tarsier |
| Actor/Actress | Steve Zahn | Chris Pine |
| Food | Pastrami | Alfredo |
| Fictional Character | Boba Fett "Purple Rage" | Meliara (from Crown Duel) |
| Item of Clothing | Cleats | Cashmere Robe |
| Weapon | Cerebral Bore | Disk (from Tron) |
| Instrument | Piano | Oboe |
| Candy Bar | Charleston Chew | Toffee Bar |
| Media Type | Video Games | Books |
| Jimmy | Kathy | |
| Color | Blue | Blue |
| Animal | Orca | Dolphin |
| Actor/Actress | Denzel Washington | Will Smith |
| Food | Pizza | Pizza |
| Fictional Character | Maverick (from Top Gun) | Hermione or Yoshi |
| Item of Clothing | PJ Pants | Hoodie & Jeans |
| Weapon | Javelin (the missile launcher) | RCP 90 |
| Instrument | Piano | Piano |
| Candy Bar | Cookies & Cream Bar | Almond Joy |
| Media Type | Movies | Books |
Speed passed due to his non-ability to say anything besides "dada", "baba", and "mama" (which he only says when he's really upset).
Risa also played but I never got her paper and I didn't want to try to just remember them because I'd probably get them wrong and say her favorite fictional character was Bella Swan. And then she'd have to throw a pencil at my head. :-D
Sunday, January 16, 2011
agog with the blog
I was forgetting some things about our last desert trips. Blog at the rescue! Easy to find the 2007, 2008, and 2009 accounts. Fun to read. I highly suggest reading them. Bret used the word saudade to describe the 2007 one. Cool! Malik, do you remember Luke and how you became good friends? Cari, the picture of Hazel peaking out of the tent is adorable. And who can forget Jacob trying to roast a pineapple, and Millie roasting some candy. And Andy's fall, and the rescue. The pictures, the dirt, the wind, the memories!
Looking forward to it!
Looking forward to it!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Tom
We woke up this morning with this written in the snow. Ha ha, yes, I miss Tommy so much, but I didn't do it!
It just so happens the neighbors little boy is Tom.
It just so happens the neighbors little boy is Tom.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Good old Orson Scott Card
The last 3 books I read, I just could not get into them. I didn't finish 2, and forced myself to finish the Sisters Grimm, which I was given for Christmas. It sounded like it would be creative and fun. I could have written it better myself in 2 days.
So, I am between book club books, so I picked up the book Bret or Jacob got dad, Pathfinder. (Sorry, I forget who, and dad is not here to ask)
Now we're talking! I have only read 2 chapters, and I am enjoying it. I must like Orson's style. He already brought out time/space travel stuff, which I always enjoy.
And a new secret skill that I have not seen before!
And, a new concept to me about how they kept a calendar, which has totally intrigued me. I want to do it!
So happy again to be reading a book I like.
Our book club was picked by Bruce Hawks, for the couples month in Feb, so husbands are to join us. Dad read it. I couldn't make it through. All Quiet on the Western Front. War, sadness, horrible graphic details, ugh. Several men in our ward have told me to finish it because it is quite philosophical. Too bad. They can just tell me about it without me having to read it all.
Our next book I get to pick, and I am choosing Fablehaven, even though I read it. We need a nice, easy read after this, and most of the mothers have wanted to read it anyways. And dad wants to also someday.
He has started the book by the Historian of West Point, who is a Mormon, and on our high council. He wrote one of those fictional histories, called "Called to Serve". I think it is about the Mormon battalion. He is liking it so far.
So, I am between book club books, so I picked up the book Bret or Jacob got dad, Pathfinder. (Sorry, I forget who, and dad is not here to ask)
Now we're talking! I have only read 2 chapters, and I am enjoying it. I must like Orson's style. He already brought out time/space travel stuff, which I always enjoy.
And a new secret skill that I have not seen before!
And, a new concept to me about how they kept a calendar, which has totally intrigued me. I want to do it!
So happy again to be reading a book I like.
Our book club was picked by Bruce Hawks, for the couples month in Feb, so husbands are to join us. Dad read it. I couldn't make it through. All Quiet on the Western Front. War, sadness, horrible graphic details, ugh. Several men in our ward have told me to finish it because it is quite philosophical. Too bad. They can just tell me about it without me having to read it all.
Our next book I get to pick, and I am choosing Fablehaven, even though I read it. We need a nice, easy read after this, and most of the mothers have wanted to read it anyways. And dad wants to also someday.
He has started the book by the Historian of West Point, who is a Mormon, and on our high council. He wrote one of those fictional histories, called "Called to Serve". I think it is about the Mormon battalion. He is liking it so far.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Kindness
Monday Tevia was not feeling well so I decided to work from home in order to help support her andgive her more opportunity to rest and get well. One way to help was to take the boys to school. We don’t live too far from the school, but because school starts so early (7:30) and our boys are a little slow, we often drive them to the corner so they don’t have to walk as far. They always walk home, but mornings can be tough so early.
I drove the back way up two streets and we laughed as we talked about the day and how they should be good and kind, etc. As usual they were so full of energy and love and we kissed and hugged and I watched as they started towards the school. After a few yards I noticed Malik was having some struggles carrying his violin case. He had a big jacket on and his backpack and trying to keep the violin in hand and walk quickly to the school was a challenge for him. As I watched I thought of how such a simple task can be so difficult for some people. But he wasn’t complaining or crying, but you could see he kept adjusting it and trying to find the best way to hold it. I wished that I could get out and carry it for him. But I didn’t think he would appreciate his dad getting out of the car and then taking his violin. Maybe he would have liked that – but I didn’t.
And then I saw Jarek walk over to him and without a word take the violin case out of his hand and carryit for him. This small act of love nearly brought me to tears as I watched Jarek – who isn’t all that much bigger or stronger – sacrifice for his little brother. He did it with a smile as they walked up the sidewalk. I marveled at the kindness of the gesture – and at the ability Jarek had to even notice an opportunity to help. I was touched that our children care for each other and despite their weaknesses look for opportunities to serve. Jarek didn’t know I was watching him. Carrying the violin would have been nearly as difficult for Jarek as it was for Malik. But he did it to help his brother and show his love for him.
As I drove home I was grateful for that small experience. I thought about it often as I went through the day and decided I need to look for more opportunities to serve those around me. You can learn a lot from your kids.
I drove the back way up two streets and we laughed as we talked about the day and how they should be good and kind, etc. As usual they were so full of energy and love and we kissed and hugged and I watched as they started towards the school. After a few yards I noticed Malik was having some struggles carrying his violin case. He had a big jacket on and his backpack and trying to keep the violin in hand and walk quickly to the school was a challenge for him. As I watched I thought of how such a simple task can be so difficult for some people. But he wasn’t complaining or crying, but you could see he kept adjusting it and trying to find the best way to hold it. I wished that I could get out and carry it for him. But I didn’t think he would appreciate his dad getting out of the car and then taking his violin. Maybe he would have liked that – but I didn’t.
And then I saw Jarek walk over to him and without a word take the violin case out of his hand and carryit for him. This small act of love nearly brought me to tears as I watched Jarek – who isn’t all that much bigger or stronger – sacrifice for his little brother. He did it with a smile as they walked up the sidewalk. I marveled at the kindness of the gesture – and at the ability Jarek had to even notice an opportunity to help. I was touched that our children care for each other and despite their weaknesses look for opportunities to serve. Jarek didn’t know I was watching him. Carrying the violin would have been nearly as difficult for Jarek as it was for Malik. But he did it to help his brother and show his love for him.
As I drove home I was grateful for that small experience. I thought about it often as I went through the day and decided I need to look for more opportunities to serve those around me. You can learn a lot from your kids.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
Hazel's Christmas Gift From Santa
This was Hazel's first fun game on her Crayola Computer Santa gave her for Christmas. We were amazed at how fast she learned to use the mouse.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
New Year stuff, predictions, goals, and favs
A year or 2 ago, we made some pretty cool predictions; like where Tom would go on his mission, if Jake or Bret would move, etc.
Let's try some for this year. Any predictions out there?
I know people are guessing when Tommy will get married, and who. I personally think he will take plenty of time and have fun dating for awhile and not hurray things along. I don't think he will be married till at least the very end of 2011 or later.
Will we move to AZ?
Any other babies coming?
Will the world end?
Any other big events to look forward to? Jarek gets the priesthood.
Will Cari or Jacob quit their job?
Next:
I miss doing favorites-
Let's all do favorite books and movies they saw and read this year.
Tev & Bret, ask Jarek his too.
If anyone wants to share any good goal ideas, feel free. I still have to figure them out, so it will be a week before I formulate them into a plan.
Let's try some for this year. Any predictions out there?
I know people are guessing when Tommy will get married, and who. I personally think he will take plenty of time and have fun dating for awhile and not hurray things along. I don't think he will be married till at least the very end of 2011 or later.
Will we move to AZ?
Any other babies coming?
Will the world end?
Any other big events to look forward to? Jarek gets the priesthood.
Will Cari or Jacob quit their job?
Next:
I miss doing favorites-
Let's all do favorite books and movies they saw and read this year.
Tev & Bret, ask Jarek his too.
If anyone wants to share any good goal ideas, feel free. I still have to figure them out, so it will be a week before I formulate them into a plan.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
A Great Day!
I had a great day on Monday. First I had a great and restful sleep. I knew it would be our last sleep in Kathy and Jimmy's home on Carol Ann Way. Thanks to them for the nice stay we had there. It was so restful and accommodating. Very much appreciated. Then I went right over to Jake's and up on the roof. I skipped breakfast. Did not want it! I had been so concerned because I had estimated the project poorly, and I felt bad that things were askew with essentially no time remaining. But we did have another day. Then I had a great day working with Tom. What a treat and a pleasure that was for me. Thanks Tom for the great day and also all the other days on the roof. But this day was especially great because, we knew it was the last but more importantly, we made so much progress and saw all our plans coming together. It was a perfect day on the roof. So much fun, we just skipped lunch. How often do workers do that? Only on a great day. Thanks again to everyone that gave time during the important Christmas season to help. Jacob, Jimmy, Bret, Tom, and even Cari worked on the house lights, and Karen made some trips to the store. Sorry for the pain it caused. I really did not think it would be that big of a job. Then I had a great evening. I felt physically good! Better everyday. I think our bodies are amazing to respond to our needs so quickly and well. Except for my tooth ache (unrelated to the roof) I was feeling good. We had some good food brought by Karen and Cari. Thanks so much, my taco's were great. Finally, we got a great lift to the Air Port by Bret and Tev and a warm good bye. Oh yea, and a great ride home through the peaceful night of the great day. It was a great day. Thanks to all for making it happen for me. Strange that such would be great, when it was so full of work and responsibility. But I would not change it for a thousand movies, or naps, or meals. It was great all by itself.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Too much travel
The past few weeks have been crazy, frustrating, and emotional. After asking my company to halt all travel for the rest of the year after more than 8 weeks of travel this year in early November I was told “no problem”, especially when I shared the health issues we have had with our kids. But not one week later I was asked to travel again – and ended up spending a few day in Houston for three of the past four weeks.
I donned my Superman cape and went to work, though admittedly with a chip on my shoulder and frustration at my company. I had been to Houston one time in the past for a business trip and was unimpressed. This time I was down in a town called Sugar Land (southwest of Houston) and got a very different impression. The area was gorgeous and the office and homes around it were very nice. Here are the highlights of my time in Houston:
Renting cars. I found that after driving a Chevy Impala, Chevy Tahoe and a Ford Fusion that I was most impressed with the Fusion. Apparently Chevy sucks.
The office I worked at has mostly employees from Saudi Arabia. Upon my first trip to the restroom I noticed it didn’t have any urinals. I thought this a little odd but thought perhaps it was a cultural thing. Upon entering the stall I noticed a tampon dispenser and all of the sudden wondered if in fact I had gone into the wrong bathroom. I hurriedly finished my business and then left to verify hoping no women entered while I was there. Upon exiting I found that it was the men’s room. I was relieved – apparently they just changed up the bathrooms at some point and never bothered to take out the old women’s paraphernalia.
The food. I found my possibly favorite restaurant while there. The first day there (my first week) I looked on Google Maps and Foursquare to see if I could find any fun, good places to eat. I was intrigued by the name of one called Japaneiro’s (which looked like a combination of Japan and habeneiros). I read more details and found that indeed it was a fusion restaurant of sushi and Mexican (latin American), which are two of my favorites. I ate there every single day I was in Houston from that day forth. My favorite thing on their menu? An avocado soup with crab in it. It is heaven. Another favorite was the Hawaiian roll which had spicy tuna, avocado, and a coconut sauce on it. I also fell in love with Chick-Fil-A’s Spicy Chicken sandwich. It is awesome. Those two restaurants took up 90% of my eating time while in Houston.
The temple. I also had the privilege to attend the temple once while there. It was a beautiful temple in a very upscale neighborhood. The session was very small and it was of great comfort following the news of my boys’ heart conditions.
I donned my Superman cape and went to work, though admittedly with a chip on my shoulder and frustration at my company. I had been to Houston one time in the past for a business trip and was unimpressed. This time I was down in a town called Sugar Land (southwest of Houston) and got a very different impression. The area was gorgeous and the office and homes around it were very nice. Here are the highlights of my time in Houston:
Renting cars. I found that after driving a Chevy Impala, Chevy Tahoe and a Ford Fusion that I was most impressed with the Fusion. Apparently Chevy sucks.
The office I worked at has mostly employees from Saudi Arabia. Upon my first trip to the restroom I noticed it didn’t have any urinals. I thought this a little odd but thought perhaps it was a cultural thing. Upon entering the stall I noticed a tampon dispenser and all of the sudden wondered if in fact I had gone into the wrong bathroom. I hurriedly finished my business and then left to verify hoping no women entered while I was there. Upon exiting I found that it was the men’s room. I was relieved – apparently they just changed up the bathrooms at some point and never bothered to take out the old women’s paraphernalia.
The food. I found my possibly favorite restaurant while there. The first day there (my first week) I looked on Google Maps and Foursquare to see if I could find any fun, good places to eat. I was intrigued by the name of one called Japaneiro’s (which looked like a combination of Japan and habeneiros). I read more details and found that indeed it was a fusion restaurant of sushi and Mexican (latin American), which are two of my favorites. I ate there every single day I was in Houston from that day forth. My favorite thing on their menu? An avocado soup with crab in it. It is heaven. Another favorite was the Hawaiian roll which had spicy tuna, avocado, and a coconut sauce on it. I also fell in love with Chick-Fil-A’s Spicy Chicken sandwich. It is awesome. Those two restaurants took up 90% of my eating time while in Houston.
The temple. I also had the privilege to attend the temple once while there. It was a beautiful temple in a very upscale neighborhood. The session was very small and it was of great comfort following the news of my boys’ heart conditions.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Atop the Rock
Dad & I braved the cold yesterday to take the train to the city to celebrate our 29 anniversary, which is next week, but dad will be on a roof all day.
I wasn't sure how far I could walk, but my back is improving daily, and we decided to try it and not do too much.
We love taking the train and watching the sites along the river.
We wanted to see the Rockefeller tree, and maybe go to the top. Dad thought it was $30 ea, so he has not wanted to try it before. It was a clear, sunny day, and we figured it wouldn't be too crowded yet being cold and in early December.
We found out it was only $21., and the line was very short.
It was an amazing view of the whole area! Wow!
We bundled up and walked to Time Square, stopped in the M&M store, then looked for a place to eat. The Prettymans had just gone to Bubba Gump Shrimp, and they liked it, so we thought we would take a chance just for the fun of it. It was fun! We thought we would be paying extremely high prices just for the name, but it was pretty reasonable for the city, and the food was delicious, and our table was right at the window in Times Square. Dad loves doing that!
We walked back to Grand Central, and I made it just about when my back was getting sore and my leg heavy. Dad had agreed beforehand that we could take a cab if I needed to, which gave me just that extra piece of mind.
It was fun being just us and having dad's attention and seeing all the sites. The spirit of the holiday season was everywhere! People singing, even the employees in the stores! We both rested on the train all the way home.
We found out we can go to the Met Art Museum for free, so that will be our next stop as we try to hit some landmarks here before we move.
I wasn't sure how far I could walk, but my back is improving daily, and we decided to try it and not do too much.
We love taking the train and watching the sites along the river.
We wanted to see the Rockefeller tree, and maybe go to the top. Dad thought it was $30 ea, so he has not wanted to try it before. It was a clear, sunny day, and we figured it wouldn't be too crowded yet being cold and in early December.We found out it was only $21., and the line was very short.
It was an amazing view of the whole area! Wow!
We bundled up and walked to Time Square, stopped in the M&M store, then looked for a place to eat. The Prettymans had just gone to Bubba Gump Shrimp, and they liked it, so we thought we would take a chance just for the fun of it. It was fun! We thought we would be paying extremely high prices just for the name, but it was pretty reasonable for the city, and the food was delicious, and our table was right at the window in Times Square. Dad loves doing that!
We walked back to Grand Central, and I made it just about when my back was getting sore and my leg heavy. Dad had agreed beforehand that we could take a cab if I needed to, which gave me just that extra piece of mind.It was fun being just us and having dad's attention and seeing all the sites. The spirit of the holiday season was everywhere! People singing, even the employees in the stores! We both rested on the train all the way home.
We found out we can go to the Met Art Museum for free, so that will be our next stop as we try to hit some landmarks here before we move.
Sunday, December 05, 2010
More Christmas fun!
I wonder if Speed will have this light blond hair Jacob had.
The girls, Tevia & Kathy, busy decorating gingerbread houses.
Tommy & Santa
One of our many Christmas eve plays.
The girls, Tevia & Kathy, busy decorating gingerbread houses.
Tommy & Santa
One of our many Christmas eve plays.
Need a little Christmas
I baked Christmas cookies yesterday, and missed having someone to decorate them with. It brought back so many fond memories of the holiday season. Dad will be gone all day from morning to maybe 7 or 8pm today. I am hoping to write out Christmas cards, but I am not in the mood.
So I thought I'd bring out some good old Christmas memories.
For those who have never seen a Christmas sage brush: in this picture Bret is in front of the flocked sage brush that we nabbed out in the country somewhere in Utah. Dad's family had done it several times, maybe to save money, who knows, but we were also on a pretty tight budget, and I think we did a sage tree twice, maybe 3 times. I think it was pretty! This is also the brand new bike santa brought Bret. Bret can maybe relate that story to his kids- the good old 'treasures of the earth, where moth doth eat and thieves corrupt....", something like that. Bret, you were always so cute and handsome! Still are!The second pic it Kathy & Tommy, all bundled up so cute and warm.
I will try to find one of Jacob later.
Enjoy!
Friday, November 26, 2010
4 kids in 1 room w/5
I want to let you all know that seeing you all together last night in one place for Thanksgiving was amazing! I feel we have been so blessed to have that actually happen. I am grateful for each one of you, and the time and effort you put in to making our family celestial.
I may not have been there this year, but it brought joy and comfort to me knowing you were all together, and with all my grandchildren!
It just warmed my heart.
As we start planning next year, dad & I just figured out that will be hard to do, as he is seriously looking for a job down there right after the holidays. If he finds one, we will pray about it, and who knows?
I guess I better not buy tickets yet for a desert trip from NY.... but, we do need to decide when that will be when we are together during the holidays.
See you all soon!
I may not have been there this year, but it brought joy and comfort to me knowing you were all together, and with all my grandchildren!
It just warmed my heart.
As we start planning next year, dad & I just figured out that will be hard to do, as he is seriously looking for a job down there right after the holidays. If he finds one, we will pray about it, and who knows?
I guess I better not buy tickets yet for a desert trip from NY.... but, we do need to decide when that will be when we are together during the holidays.
See you all soon!
HP 7
I know all of us have not seen this, so I won't add any spoilers.
Dad and I just got back from seeing it. I liked it more than I usually do HP< probably cause I hadn't read the book
The interesting thing worth a blog note was what dad said after the movie:
" Wearing a _______ (forgot the word and dad already went out running, but you know, the necklace thingy) - well, wearing one of those is like going low" ha ha
I thought that was funny.
Dad and I just got back from seeing it. I liked it more than I usually do HP< probably cause I hadn't read the book
The interesting thing worth a blog note was what dad said after the movie:
" Wearing a _______ (forgot the word and dad already went out running, but you know, the necklace thingy) - well, wearing one of those is like going low" ha ha
I thought that was funny.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
The Hunger Games
This is a warning for those who have not finished this series, some of the ending will be spoiled, I will mention little details though.
My Review :
As I read through the first book of the series, The Hunger Games, I found a very interesting storyline, that was written well enough to grab the readers attention, and I must say I was impressed with the author's ability to create curiosity and captivate the reader's mind, forcing him to keep reading. A page turner, with some depth, but not as well written as I would've liked.
When I read the second book, Catching Fire, my opinion changed. I felt that the author created a fun story and ended the book in a very good spot. I enjoyed this book greatly and was looking forward to the third. I was excited and hopeful for the thrilling finish of such a well created story and good idea. When I read the third, Mockingjay, I was greatly disappointed, let me explain why.
To explain why I think I must explain a little about hope.
Hope is a powerful thing. It is literally the anchor of our souls. It is the belief that through obedience to our Heavenly Father, and through doing good, we can and will in the end find eternal joy. True happiness that fills the soul and never leaves. This hope gives us purpose, gives us determination and diligence. I am grateful for hope in my life, which can be centered on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for it is through Him that we can achieve this eternal joy.
In book 1 and 2, the author constantly builds our hope as a reader that if our hero(?), Katniss succeeds at something that everything will be better. But as things continue to work out as the reader and Katniss would have hoped, joy never enters the series. By the end of book 2 the author has built up a great hope that if Katniss and the rebel forces can take down the Capital and Snow, that everything will be right again, that true happiness will enter their lives.
Well in book 3 we find that things continue to pan out perfectly for our little hero(?). Things turn out perfectly, exactly as the reader would have hoped, but even after everything goes right, the author brings no peace into the story. Katniss finds no joy in her life, in her family, in her offspring, in anything. I believe the author alludes to Katniss living out the rest of her life in fear and despair as do all the others.
The last 20 pages of this book cause great sadness and why, because the author, I believe, destroys the reader's hope. Everything one would have wanted to happen does, but nothing seems right at the end. Sadness prevails and one feels greatly depressed as if their own lives were unfulfilling as well. Despair replaces hope as the reader's conscience begins to feel that no matter what, we are doomed to an unhappy finite ending, where we can never truly be happy, because even after all went well in the story, we are still miserable with the outcome.
The ploy that after all that Katniss and others have gained at the end that they cannot throw off their fear and old injuries and be truly happy with their highly priced freedom they have purchased with so much blood is a total falsity. It could never happen. Life brings happiness, it is ridiculous to try to write a book to say otherwise.
I hated the ending. The last 20 pages toyed so much with my emotions I actually became angry about it. I do not like when an author tries to create sadness and despair in a world that so desperately needs hope, and this author not only does a good job at destroying the reader's hope, but actually excels at it.
Removing the fact that the book causes one to wallow in sorrow after finishing it, the series is still degrading. If we carefully examine this series we find horrible themes rampant through out the entire thing. It is based on an idea that children, yes, children will fight to the death, brutally. The idea itself is sickening, and I stick with Jacob that it is completely unrealistic, a society could never decay to that point. A parent could never demand that another parent's child be sent to the Hunger Games. Apparently humans are cold animals in the author's eye. The series also constantly makes, drug use, alcohol, body mutilation and prostitution all seem acceptable as people try to escape reality to find happiness. It seems it is also acceptable to describe horrible deaths and graphic scenes. In fact the series takes our sacred bodies, temples given to us by God, and puts them at 0 value. People are constantly changing themselves, are constantly immodest (usually naked), and sleeping together under the age of 18. Sex is portrayed as only a necessary way to keep the species alive with nothing sacred about it. Lies and deceit, blackmail, fame and power, the idea of mistrust (no one is ever trustworthy in the books...they are apparently all two-faced). This book depicts a society that has no God and no morals, no happiness and zero charity. No true heroes exist, even Peeta is apparently hijacked and turned into a menace at the end, unable to recover.
Overall, I believe that Mormon made it very clear for us how we can judge what comes from God and what comes from Satan. Unlike most series or shows or stories, I found no inspiration in this book. It did not make me want to be a better person, or even try to be. I do not want to aspire to be like any of these characters. I judge this series to be inspired by the adversary. The Spirit had no role in inspiring any part of this story.
What do I think of The Hunger Games series?
In the words of Max Hall, "I don't like it, in fact I hate it, I hate everything about it... its classless." I add, its dangerous. Its dangerous to have this view on life, that we are only cold animals with no divine potential, and its sad that someone can truly look at the world this way.
What do you think?
My Review :
As I read through the first book of the series, The Hunger Games, I found a very interesting storyline, that was written well enough to grab the readers attention, and I must say I was impressed with the author's ability to create curiosity and captivate the reader's mind, forcing him to keep reading. A page turner, with some depth, but not as well written as I would've liked.
When I read the second book, Catching Fire, my opinion changed. I felt that the author created a fun story and ended the book in a very good spot. I enjoyed this book greatly and was looking forward to the third. I was excited and hopeful for the thrilling finish of such a well created story and good idea. When I read the third, Mockingjay, I was greatly disappointed, let me explain why.
To explain why I think I must explain a little about hope.
Hope is a powerful thing. It is literally the anchor of our souls. It is the belief that through obedience to our Heavenly Father, and through doing good, we can and will in the end find eternal joy. True happiness that fills the soul and never leaves. This hope gives us purpose, gives us determination and diligence. I am grateful for hope in my life, which can be centered on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for it is through Him that we can achieve this eternal joy.
In book 1 and 2, the author constantly builds our hope as a reader that if our hero(?), Katniss succeeds at something that everything will be better. But as things continue to work out as the reader and Katniss would have hoped, joy never enters the series. By the end of book 2 the author has built up a great hope that if Katniss and the rebel forces can take down the Capital and Snow, that everything will be right again, that true happiness will enter their lives.
Well in book 3 we find that things continue to pan out perfectly for our little hero(?). Things turn out perfectly, exactly as the reader would have hoped, but even after everything goes right, the author brings no peace into the story. Katniss finds no joy in her life, in her family, in her offspring, in anything. I believe the author alludes to Katniss living out the rest of her life in fear and despair as do all the others.
The last 20 pages of this book cause great sadness and why, because the author, I believe, destroys the reader's hope. Everything one would have wanted to happen does, but nothing seems right at the end. Sadness prevails and one feels greatly depressed as if their own lives were unfulfilling as well. Despair replaces hope as the reader's conscience begins to feel that no matter what, we are doomed to an unhappy finite ending, where we can never truly be happy, because even after all went well in the story, we are still miserable with the outcome.
The ploy that after all that Katniss and others have gained at the end that they cannot throw off their fear and old injuries and be truly happy with their highly priced freedom they have purchased with so much blood is a total falsity. It could never happen. Life brings happiness, it is ridiculous to try to write a book to say otherwise.
I hated the ending. The last 20 pages toyed so much with my emotions I actually became angry about it. I do not like when an author tries to create sadness and despair in a world that so desperately needs hope, and this author not only does a good job at destroying the reader's hope, but actually excels at it.
Removing the fact that the book causes one to wallow in sorrow after finishing it, the series is still degrading. If we carefully examine this series we find horrible themes rampant through out the entire thing. It is based on an idea that children, yes, children will fight to the death, brutally. The idea itself is sickening, and I stick with Jacob that it is completely unrealistic, a society could never decay to that point. A parent could never demand that another parent's child be sent to the Hunger Games. Apparently humans are cold animals in the author's eye. The series also constantly makes, drug use, alcohol, body mutilation and prostitution all seem acceptable as people try to escape reality to find happiness. It seems it is also acceptable to describe horrible deaths and graphic scenes. In fact the series takes our sacred bodies, temples given to us by God, and puts them at 0 value. People are constantly changing themselves, are constantly immodest (usually naked), and sleeping together under the age of 18. Sex is portrayed as only a necessary way to keep the species alive with nothing sacred about it. Lies and deceit, blackmail, fame and power, the idea of mistrust (no one is ever trustworthy in the books...they are apparently all two-faced). This book depicts a society that has no God and no morals, no happiness and zero charity. No true heroes exist, even Peeta is apparently hijacked and turned into a menace at the end, unable to recover.
Overall, I believe that Mormon made it very clear for us how we can judge what comes from God and what comes from Satan. Unlike most series or shows or stories, I found no inspiration in this book. It did not make me want to be a better person, or even try to be. I do not want to aspire to be like any of these characters. I judge this series to be inspired by the adversary. The Spirit had no role in inspiring any part of this story.
What do I think of The Hunger Games series?
In the words of Max Hall, "I don't like it, in fact I hate it, I hate everything about it... its classless." I add, its dangerous. Its dangerous to have this view on life, that we are only cold animals with no divine potential, and its sad that someone can truly look at the world this way.
What do you think?
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
People Make a Big Difference
I spent several hours at the same hospital over the past few days. After two days doing exactly the same thing I have come to realize how much of a difference a person - or people - can make in the lives of others. Friday was a wonderful day at the hospital. Everyone was kind, fun, and nice as we made our way through a scary and stressful situation. In fact, the one doctor made me jealous as I thought how wonderful it must be to be able to impact people's lives in such a great way. Monday was the opposite. From the moment we checked in people were rude, mean and annoying. They did nothing to make our time their comfortable and we left frustrated and exhausted. The difference? The people. Same hospital, same tests, same check-in procedure, etc. Completely different experience. It made me want to be the type of person that has a positive effect on people's lives, and not the opposite - like the Monday crew at the hospital.
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