as promised.

Here is the last video from the SHIFT training, my personal narrative:

what I've been up to

I'm here in St. George with 2 amazingly fun teachers from my school!  We've been working at learning how to incorporate film into our curriculum.  Yesterday we planned, filmed, edited and produced a "9 sentence" film (a film written in only 9 sentences, with no dialogue).  Luckily, Lyv was in town and stars as our adorable actress.  Check it out:

Our second video was a Public Service Announcement:

Stay tuned for the Personal Narrative (which should be completed within the next few hours...)

a new song

brings a plethora of possibilites for family band:



(that's right-- there are five people playing one guitar).

happy day

Samuel and I are celebrating our 2 year anniversary!  We took the day off yesterday to go to the tulip festival, have lunch, and do some shopping.  We spent the night in Park City, and are back home today to get things done around here.

Two things I love about Samuel, after being married for two years:


1. When Samuel works, he works hard.  But when it is time to relax, Samuel stops to take photos of beautiful vistas or pretty flowers, he drives me out of the way to go to little book stores, and turns down the music to share his big ideas.

2. Samuel is very loyal.  When he commits to something or someone--especially family-- he will stick by it to the bitter end.  A great quality in a spouse, if you ask me.

Happy anniversary, Samuel.  I love you a lot.

the best.

lots of thoughts to spill.

hey.  thanks for your nice and insightful comments and conversations here on the blog and everywhere else.  especially concerning that last post.  I have definitely not figured it out, but I have some good ideas and some new strategies to try as far as diet/exercise.  so thank you.

tomorrow is parent-teacher conferences.  I don't know why I always feel like I have to blog around conference time-- I think it just gives me something else to think about amid the chaos.  I've tried to simplify, though, and this term it's working.  friday will be here in no time.

tomorrow is also the day that my dear friend, Kaite, returns from her mission.  I am so excited to see her!  unfortunately it will be late at night before I can get over to her house (because of said conferences), but even still-- I cannot wait.  so much love.

currently I am working on my YW lesson about being a good example.  it has me thinking about all of those "examples" who have shaped my life. I've thought a lot about all of those circles I've traveled in-- and who has inspired me to make certain turns or changes.  you know?  like people who were stalwart for me in high school; people I gleaned from in college; wonderful people I've met while learning and traveling; my ever-faithful family; friends who have stuck around.  to all those who are those daily "good examples"-- I find you courageous and inspiring.  I love this quote from the lesson: "It takes courage to do what you know to be right even when it is hard, very hard. But you will never lose your courage unless you choose to.” -Ardeth Kapp  I know it's talking about being a righteous example in the gospel, but I think it applies to other parts of life as well.  what do you think?

also.  have you noticed that getting comments on your blog is extremely exciting and motivating?  I'm going to try to be better at commenting on blogs more often.  because heaven knows I read 'em.

let's talk about food.

It's a vicious cycle.
Last March when Samuel and I gave each other the "sugar challenge" (no sugary treats for a month), we lasted about 2 weeks.  And then we ate cake with strawberry topping and ice cream.  I wanted to try the challenge again this month, and then I went over to my mom's yesterday (yes, March 1st) and there were cookies baking and that smell in the air and cookie dough just sitting on the counter and I couldn't resist!  So, what's my deal?  Is it really that I have no willpower?

If I'm really honest with myself, I do want to make some healthy changes in my life.  Exercise is #1 on my goal list, and a healthier diet is #2.  How do you make yourself do it?  Is eliminating sugar for a month truly going to help me reach my goals?  (seriously.  I'm asking because I don't know).  

I like what this blog suggests:

1. Reduce dependence on sweets:  The average American drinks 96 oz. of soft drinks each week.  New goal: one 12-oz drink, or less.
2. Eliminate man-made trans fats:  Zero deep fat fried foods.
3. Take back control of your diet:  Write a weekly menu.
4. Eat a healthy breakfast:  Cereal products must have more natural fiber than added sugar.
5. Be muscular: Exercise 30 minutes most days.  It’s best if you sweat.
6. Return to the plant-based diet of your ancestors:  Eat (USDA recommended) five vegetable servings daily. 
7. Slow aging:  Eat a varied diet of whole foods (especially berries) to maximize antioxidant intake and minimize free radical damage.

Our goal is to rediscover the best way to live and be well.  We’re not trying to live forever, just more fully.

Thoughts?  Feelings?  Advice?