Day 31: Water

I wake up a lot during the night (sleeping issues)...usually 2-3 times on average.  During one of my awake periods, I usually get up to go to the bathroom, but the reason I usually wake up is because I'm thirsty.  I always have water next to my bed and must be in a bottle with lid.  If it's not, I have a tendency to spill water everywhere because I don't always look when I am reaching for it (I really hate having to clean up water in the middle of the night...it's almost as bad as bag balm). 

During the past year, I've become a huge fan of water.  I challenged myself to drink more water during the day, so now I drink around 64oz of water every day at work. Our water mess is only $2 a month for unlimited filtered water (awesome!).  At restuarants, 9 times out of 10, I'll even choose water over Diet Coke (especially if the restuarant only serves Pepsi products).  I think water is the most refreshing beverage in the world. 

Day 30: Chex Mix

When I arrived home from San Francisco tonight, I was starving (even though I ate a huge meal about 5:30PM...Yellow curry...yummy).  I couldn't decide what to eat because I didn't want to eat anything too heavy.  I had just about given up the idea of food when I remembered my Chex Mix.  As a child, I used to hate Chex Mix because it wasn't potato chips, but as an adult I love the original Chex Mix because it isn't too salty, has delicious textures, and mixes some of my favorite things together:

1. The Pretzels

2. The Brown Bread-like Chips

3. Chex (2 different kinds)

4. Salt mixture (I have no idea what's in it, but I like it!!!)

5. The slim crackers

Thanks Chex Mix for always being there when I need a quick snack!!!

Day 29: Sleeping In

I work Monday-Friday (7:30AM-5:30PM on average), work in the temple Saturdays (6:15AM-12:15PM), and have church Sundays (9AM-12PM), which means sleeping in past 7AM is not something I accomplish very often.  Sometimes I feel like I never have a day off because my alarm is constantly going off each morning. Today, I was lucky enough to sleep in.  This weekend, I'm visiting the Murphy's and we didn't have anything exciting to do today (just planning on playing with Liam and catching up), so Meg and Dave let me sleep in until 10:30AM.  It was so luxurious because an alarm never went off.  Usually, my alarm goes off every day, whether I am on vacation or not.  I love sleeping in and am so thankful I got a couple hours extra sleep this morning.  Unforunately, tomorrow my alarm will go off, but at least I don't have to go to work :)

Day 28: Mini-Vacations

Until I was in high school, I went to a year around school.  Year around schools are schools where classes met year around.  Ashley and I started each school year in June, 10 weeks of class, 3 week break in September, 10 weeks of class, 4 week break in December (basically the whole month off), 10 weeks of school, 3 week break in March, 9 weeks of class, then 3 weeks off before the next school year began.  What does all  this have to do with mini-vacations?

My family took mini-vacations during every break (except in June because too many other kids were off school at the same time).  Mini vacations were great as kids...usually 2-4 days in length, not too much time in the car, and we saw/experienced some really cool stuff.  As a kid, we had adventures at amusement parks (Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Knotts Berry Farm), went camping (Grand Canyon, Yosemite), visited family (hello, Blythe!!!), took in local scenery, and sometimes just hung out around town, but pretended we were tourists. 

As an adult, I've grown to love mini-vacations.  Short vacations allow me to take only a couple days off work, but still have the feel of getting away from the world.  In the past few years, I've been to Las Vegas (girl's weekend, anyone?), Seattle (Barbie, let's go back!!!), Utah, and this weekend, I'm in lovely San Francisco visiting the Murphy's. 

My best friend, Meghan, and her husband, Dave (also a good friend), had Liam Micheal, in October 2011.  An opportunity to visit sooner was nonexistent, so a couple months ago, I found a cheap flight on Southwest and booked a ticket.  I love visiting the Murphy's because it's guaranteed to be a nice relaxing weekend.  It's a pretty quick trip...only today through Monday night, but I know I will be less stressed when I go home than when I arrived.  I love talking to Meghan in person about everything in my life and getting her perspective.  Thanks to the Murphy's for faciliating a great start to another fabulous mini-vacation.

Day 27: Pedicures

Over the years, I've grown to love pedicures. My love blossomed while I was at UCLA, where pedicures were only $10. My roommates and I would treat ourselves before big events and get pedicures (we were poor college students). As I've gotten older, pedicures have gained a spot in my monthly routine. I love going to the salon, sitting in the spa massage chair, having my toes done, and forgetting about the issues in my life.  This afternoon, I got my first pedicure in over a month (I got a pedicure right before I left for Texas for the holidays). Over the past week, my toes were looking really ragged because I've broken my toe nails, as they have gotten longer (for me, three weeks in the optimal amount of time between pedicures).  I went to a new spa/salon near my house, which was nice, and I plan on going there again.  I love bringing my own nail polish, too, which allows me to touch up my nails between pedicures (it's a money saving venture).  I love sitting in a spa chair, reading all about the latest celebrity gossip, and getting a lower leg massge (so relaxing...).

Day 26: Diet Coke

I love Diet Coke. Some people might say I am addicted to Diet Coke. Tonight, I went to a work sponsored happy hour at a local restaurant...Jimmy's Famous American Tavern. I don't drink, so my coworkers always order me a Diet Coke :) If I am not drinking water, I am usually having a room temperature Diet Coke (I don't really like ice with my soda). For as long as I can remember, I've been a Diet Coke drinker. My mom introduced me to the deliciousness of Diet Coke at a very young age. Ashley and I were always taught to drink diet soda rather than regular because of the sugar in regular soda. My mom said if we drank diet, then we could have dessert, which is a mantra I still live by (who doesn't like dessert?). When I am at a restaurant with Diet Pepsi, I feel a little sad inside because Diet Pepsi isn't Diet Coke (but I will drink it in a pinch :)). I even love the fizzing sound Diet Coke makes when I pour it into a glass. Cheers to you, Diet Coke!

Day 25: Heating Pads

Heating Pads are a necessity at my house.  I've suffered from migraines since I was 8 years old.  My migraines trigger back and neck pain.  I take over-the-counter and prescription medicine to combat my headaches, but that medicine doesn't always help right away (if it helps at all...sleep is actually one of the best medicines for me).  Years ago, I learned heating pads ease the tension in my head and neck when I have a headache.  I think heat helps keep my mind on something other than the headache (plus I love being warm).  I usually use  herbal heating pads with rice or grains that heat up easily in the microwave (2-3 minutes).  I also have chemical heating pads (you pop a little disk and the liquid becomes a hard gel) that stay warm for about an hour, but you can't reheat them easily (they turn back into liquid by boiling them in hot water).  Every few years, I buy new heating pads at the San Diego County Fair (great deals). I also love massages using heating pads...it relaxes me so much.

Today was a really long day at work (11 hours, including a manager's meeting).  I was feeling good until I started driving home.  I decided to eat something and lay down, but my headache kept getting worse.  Around 8PM, I took some of my prescription medicine (I use Imitrex because it works for me, but I try not to take it often since it makes me really tired) and heated up a heating pad.  I felt really sick, but just having the heating pad on my head makes me feel like my headache is getting better. 

Apparently, I could also use my heating pad during Yoga...



Day 24: amazon.com

As a bargain shopper, I have grown to love online shopping.  It isn't always as fun as the real thing, but you can find some great deals.  In the past few years, I've become a huge fan of amazon.com. 

In 2009, my parents bought me a Kindle (EReader) for my birthday.  I loved it and started buying all my books through amazon.  Buying books may not seem like a huge deal, but I read a lot (roughly 1 book every 3 days).  Originally, I started browsing amazon a couple times a week for bargain ebooks.  Now, I pretty much visit amazon daily.  When I moved last summer, I ordered many of my organization tools (drawers, jewelry boxes, etc).  This past November, I bought myself the Amazon Kindle Fire, which is a cool little tablet, and very integrated with amazon.com.  I joined Amazon Prime, which gives me free 2 day shipping, and I've bought something every day this week (Jewelry Cleaner, a Duffle bag for my 72 hour kit, and DVD holders).  I love how convenient amazon.com is for all my shopping needs.  I can literally think about buying something and within 5 minutes buy it on my phone (the wonders of technology).

Day 23: Facetime

When Monroe was born, I was very much a part of the experience (Thanks again Ashley...I love being part of Monroe's life).  I was at the ultrasound where Ash and Stu found out they were having a girl, in the delivery room for the birth, spent a lot of time with Ash and Stu after the birth, and really bonded with Monroe. 

Little Boyd wasn't a surprise, so I knew I wouldn't be able to be able to be at the birth or meet him immediately, but my head and my heart were saying conflicting things.  My head was saying "You have a plan to meet him on 8 March (airline ticket booked and paid for) and you get to spend 11 days with him.  That's soon enough."  My heart was saying "Book yourself on the next flight to Dallas and see the little guy."  Needless to say, my head won out and I have been in San Diego the past few days waiting for pictures to arrive and Ashley to get home from the hospital with the little bundle of joy.  Officially, I haven't even seen Boyd, except in pictures, so I was excited to do a little video chatting with Ashley and the family tonight. 

First, I had the opportunity to do a little IPhone Facetime with Monroe (my favorite niece...my only niece, but still my favorite :)).  She was taking a bath and told me all about her day.  It was so great to see and interact with her in a way not possible a few years ago.  As Monroe gets older, Ash and I use Facetime more and more because Roe likes to interact with me on the phone.  She enjoys showing me her clothes, toys, and whatever else tickles her fancy at the moment. 

Then, I got to meet Boyd for the first time.  He had just peed all over his outfit, so he was only in a diaper...so adorable with all the rolls.  Boyd has a head full of dark hair and the chubbiest cheeks I've seen in a while. He wasn't too happy to be on display, but I think he'll get used to talking to me over the phone or computer (at least I hope so).  Ashley thinks he looks a lot like Roe when she was born, but I think he's distinctly himself.  I can't wait to see who he looks like.

Day 22: Stake Conference

For those of you who don't know much about the Chuch of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the church is separated into different areas called Stakes.  Each stake has approximately 6-8 wards, also divided up by area based on the number of priesthood holders in the area.  My ward, San Diego 12th ward, is in the San Diego North stake. All 88 stakes in Southern California had Stake Conference this weekend.  It started yesterday with a Priesthood leadership meeting at 4pm, the adult meeting at 7pm, then today's broadcast at 10am. Stake Conference is always a great opportunity to hear some wonderful guidance from leadership in the church and this weekend was no exception.

Yesterday, I was really tired when I got home from the temple (not very shocking since I had to wake up at 5am.  Around 2:30PM, I feel asleep, but didn't set an alarm, since Stake Conference didn't start until 7pm.  I woke up in a panic hours later because it was dark outside and I thought I had missed the meeting.  Luckily, it was only 6pm, so I got dressed and headed over to the Mt Abernathy building (typically buildings are named after the street they are on). Last night's session was great.  The stake presidency spoke on charity and keeping our hearts open to our ancestors.  The stake has been asked to work on geneology.  A lot of my family work has been completed, but I know I could help with my mom's family....looks like I need to start learning how to use ancestry.com. 

This morning, I met up with friends about 9am to get seats on the comfy pews (plus we brought each other snacks...best row ever!!!!).  Today's broadcast started promptly at 10:15am, with opening prayer, song, and a little stake business for 15 minutes prior to the broadcast.  Elder Steven E. Snow, Sister Barbara Thompson (2nd counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency), Elder Paul V. Johnson, and Elder L. Tom Perry all spoke and it was fantastic.  The importance of family prayer was a major focus of the conference and Elder Snow's talk.  Below are the highlights:

- Family prayer should be scheduled at a regular time
- Assignments should be rotated amongst family members
- Prayers don't need to be long
- Whoever is giving the prayer should really think about what to say
- Ask for specific blessings
- Be specific in gratitude (which fits really well with my thankfulness blog)
- Take time to listen for an answer

I also really enjoyed Elder Johnson's talk about faith.  Faith is the power of God and can only be used to do his will, so we must make our requests in harmony with his will. 

Overall, stake conference was really uplifting and I am looking forward to working on the guidance we all received. 

Day 21: Rain

San Diego is known for it's absolutely gorgeous weather.  Most days the past few weeks have  been in the 70s and it's seemed more like summer than winter.  Today was a major exception, since when I walked out of the temple rain was falling.  Rain is a normal January occurance, but has been noticably absent this year.  Today, I am thankful for the rainfall, so hopefully we aren't stuck in another drought this year.

I love rain! Especially, when I can stay at home snuggled in my bed and just chill.  I love the smell of rain...everything smells so clean after a good rain.  Rain also gives San Diego some of the most beautiful sunsets.  My friends have been posting pictures all week.  I also love rain when my car is dirty (which it is right now).  I feel like I have a few more weeks until I need a wash now :)  What I dislike (hate is a strong word) about rain is having to drive in it.  San Diegans don't know how to drive correctly in rain because we don't need to often enough.  The drivers slow down, stop, speed, etc, so accidents occur all over the county. 

P.S.  My new nephew is named Boyd Mason Keller.  Boyd after Stuart's Paternal Grandfather, Mason is my mom's maiden name...family names all around. 

Day 20: Brand New Nephew

Around 8AM this morning (10AM Texas time), I received a call from my mom, Judy.  My mom is not normally awake at 10AM, so I knew something was up if she was calling...Ashley was being admitted to the hospital.  If you don't already know, Ashley is having a little baby boy (name TBD before birth) due January 22.  Apparently, he decided he wanted to arrive a couple days early.  This morning, Ashley had her normal OB appointment and her DR said her amniotic fluids were low, so they were inducing.  Stuart immediately grabbed Ashley's stuff and left to meet her at the hospital, while my mom and dad stayed with Monroe until closer to the delivery. 

Ashley called me about 9:30AM: 4 centimeters dialated, IV in, and getting ready for the epidural.  As I tried to work throughout the day, my mind kept wondering to Ashley in labor.  I hoped and prayed everything would go smoothly for her and little baby boy (please, have a healthy baby).  I texted her around 12:45PM to see how everything was going and received a response 15 minutes later..."8 centimeters dilated, so getting close. Today is definitely the day.  I will keep you posted." I called Ashley again at 1:36PM, Stuart answered the phone and said "Congratulations, he was just born."  I cried a little and told all my coworkers like the proud Auntie I am. 

The pertinent statistics: Born 1/20/12; 3:13PM (CST); 8lbs, 13.2oz; 21 inches; dark brown hair; Blue eyes

Baby Boy Keller Right after birth (No name as of yet)

Baby Boy Keller Being Held By Mama

Papa's first grandson...finally a boy :)

  

He already holds a little piece of my heart.  I talked to Ashley tonight and Mama and baby are doing great.  Monroe was very excited to meet her baby brother and told me all about how he has BIG eyes :)  I can't wait to meet him in March, but hopefully I can call him by an actual name soon! 

Day 19: Chili

Today, my thankfulness is for chili.   You may be thinking I am thankful for the country (which I guess I am , but I've never been to it), but I am actually giving thanks for the food...you know that delicious stew-like concoction made with beans, meat, and whatever else you throw in :)  Chili makes me think of cold, windy days (some would say blustery).

I've always loved chili.  As a young girl, I remember eating Stagg chili covered with shredded cheese along side my dad.  He always told Ashley and I the reason he was so tall was from eating Stagg chili every day growing up (and milk makes you smalled).  Chili is always in my cupboard and I always have a can at work I can eat in a pinch (like today).  I usually buy vegetarian chili because I don't trust canned meat (is that weird?).  Whenever, I eat at Soupplantation (yummy!!!!), I always eat the chili and cornbread. 

Day 18: Rubio's

For those of you who know me, you know I love to eat out.  Eating is one of my favorite pasttimes :)  Growing up in San Diego, I've always loved Mexican food, but I didn't always love the chain fast food...until Rubio's.  I absolutely adore Rubio's.  I've only ever eaten 2 things there...fish tacos and nachos (and I usually order the Nachos: no guacamole or Salsa frasca, substitute sour cream because why ruin a good thing). 

Ashley and I hit Jamba Juice and Rubio's (can you say massive amounts of calories????) at Grossmont Center at least once a week when I started driving.  In November, Ashley was in Anahiem for a work function, so I drove up and all she wanted to eat was Rubio's. 

I think it may be in my blood now.  Good thing I live 3 blocks from a Rubio's, so I can eat it whenver I want....

Day 17: My Sister Ashley

This morning, I was feeling a little bit down about life.  Work is good, church is fulfilling, great friends, awesome family, but I still feel like something is missing.  I am not unhappy with my life, but I know I could be happier (Thanks Happiness Project for showing me everyone could be happier).   On my way to work, I called Ashley for a little pep talk.  I am so thankful I have a good relationship with my sister.   

Ashley and I have always been close.  One of my earliest memories is playing with my mom while she was pregnant with Ash and I wanted to be pregnant, too, so I stuffed my shirt with a towel (apparently I've always wanted to be a mom).  We were always each other's playmates, best friends, and worst enemies growing up (anyone with sister's can understand that one).  I was the Maid of Honor at her wedding and am a pretty rocking Auntie Coco to her daughter, Monroe (if I do say so myself).  I miss her like crazy since she moved to Texas, but I know it's where her family is supposed to be right now.  I can't wait to meet my new nephew currently cooking in her belly.

At Ashley's Wedding

The Bickmore/Keller Girls at my 30th Birthday Dinner

I love you Ash! Thanks for always being a great sister.

Day 16: College Basketball Games

I've always loved college basketball.  I clearly remember watching March Madness in 1995 when UCLA won it all, which may have been when I started loving my Bruins.  I loved the drama and artistry in college basketball, which was/is definitely missing from professional sports.

When I was accepted to UCLA, I was very excited to buy season tickets to the football and basketball games.  Imagine my disappointment when I was told only 1,000 freshmen receive tickets each year by lottery.  I figured there was no way I would get tickets, but luckily, I won and continued to buy tickets each subsequent year).  I didn't miss a basketball or football game my entire time at UCLA.  I have so many fond memories of the student section (8-clap anyone?).  More than once, I slept outside, so I could be courtside during our most highly anticipated games (Hello, Arizona & USC).

Tonight, I had the opportunity to attend the BYU-USD basketball game with some single friends (Thanks for the invite Michelle).   It was really fun and reminded me how much I love live sports and miss my UCLA games.   

 

P.S. BYU dominated the game and won by 19 pts :)  Go GOUGARS!!! (And yes, I can say that since my sister graduated from there!!!)

Day 15: Fresh Sheets

Since I've been sick (sinus infection, running nose, coughing) for the past few weeks, I decided to wash all my sheets, blankets, and duvet cover.  All the washing and drying basically took all day, but everything is now clean.  I am really thankful for my nice comfy bed, but today is all about fresh sheets.  I love the feeling of climbing into a fresh set of sheets.  Whenever I travel, I always allow a few minutes before I leave to change the sheets on my bed, so they are fresh when I get home :)

My current bedding is very floral and mostly matches (the sheets are whatever color I happen to like at the moment...I have light blue, red, and lavender).  I bought this DKNY duvet cover and pillowcases when I moved.  I thought I needed a lighter duvet, so my bedroom (really small compared to my old room) looks bigger.  I still need to buy some more accent pillows, but overall I like the look. 

Day 14: The BBC's "Pride and Prejudice"

After working at the temple this morning, I decided to really rest this afternoon and catch up on some DVR (The Big Bang Theory was particularly hilarious).  Later in the day, I checked the mail and was super excited to see Netflix envelopes...the second DVD in the BBC's "Pride and Prejudice" had arrived.  How did I neglect watching this masterpiece for 16 years?  Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" is one of my favorite books and I love movies depicting that time period (BBC's "North and South," "Sense and Sensibility," "Little Women," etc).

The BBC's "Pride and Prejudice" is approximately 5 hours and one of the best book adaptations I've ever seen.  I tend to be pretty disappointed in book adapatations, but as a miniseries, this adaptation could take the time to get the details right :) 

Jennifer Ehle is superb as Elizabeth Bennet.  She captures her frankness, kindness, and change of heart concerning Mr. Darcy perfectly. 

Colin Firth IS Mr. Darcy.  I completely understand why women swoon over Mr. Darcy because I love Colin Firth (I always have...hello "Love Actually").  Now if only I could find my own Mr. Darcy...

Day 13: Hilarious Coworkers

Today, I've had a hard time narrowing down what to write about. 

I spend 45-55 hours at work each week, so I am extremely grateful for hilarious coworkers.  I work with Sentek coworkers, government clients, and other contractors (BAH, CSA, Intellisolutions, etc).  My current work environment consists of a large cubicle with 5 men....needless to say I hear surprising things each and every day. 

One of my coworkers, Julius, is slightly obsessed with bacon.  He talks about bacon daily.  You may ask "how does someone talk about bacon every day?" Well, it's actually quite easy when we egg him on every day (we all love how obsessed he is).  I've visited Denny's with him for Baconmania, seen him eat multiple bacon burgers, and continue to try to persuade him to try the Bacon brownies at Slater's 50/50.

Then there is Brian, who is one of the smallest men I know (5 ft 6 in, 120 lbs wet), but can eat more than 3 men.  This afternoon, my boss (Tom), Justine (a fellow manager), and I threw a Thank You Lunch  for our employees. Brian ate a stacked 1/2 pound hamburger and probably a pound of potato chips.

My boss, Tom, or Clubber (his call sign from the Navy...he was an aviator and a retired Naval Captain) is a joy to work for.  Whenever we meet, he cracks me up because he seems constantly amazed by Justine and I (we are pretty amazing).  He is the classic Harley rider, gun toting, Republican and totally reminds me of my dad. 

I am really lucky to work with great people.

Day 12: Long Hot Showers

After a great catch-up session (including dinner, shopping, and laughs) with Barbie at Fashion Valley, I was feeling a little chilled as the weather dropped to below 60 degrees (living in San Diego has it's perks).  All the way home, all I could think about was taking a nice long hot shower.

I love long hot showers...I always have.  I used to get up a half hour earlier than I needed just to take a 30 minute shower in the morning.  As I've gotten older, my showers have become shorter and shorter in the morning because I love sleep, too.  I usually have just enough time to shampoo my hair, wash up, and clean my face (on a good day, I'll even shave my legs). At least once a week, but usually more, I take my shower at night where there isn't a deadline and the water can't get HOT enough. It's absolutely fantastic!!!!

If you haven't taken a nice long hot shower in a while, take a half hour and give it a try...you won't regret it :)

Day 11: Monthly BUNCO

As a single female, I like to stay busy and make new friends by joining different groups around town (like Book Clubs).  Today I am thankful for one of my favorites…my monthly BUNCO group.  Founded in 2008, my girls-only BUNCO group grew from girls who played BINGO together in another group (at least that is how I was brought into the group; others are family members, soccer moms, school friends, etc).  I’ve grown to love every one of the girls because they are each individuals with their own talents and quirks.  We have 11 standard members (Amber, Andrea B, Andrea L, Beth, Heather, Melissa, Roberta, Sonja, Stacey, Toni, and myself) with the option to bring a substitute each month.

For those of you who don't know what BUNCO is...take a look at wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunco (Wikipedia can explain it a lot better than I can).  Basically, it's a game with 3 dice played in multiple rounds. 

My BUNCO group rotates homes the second Wednesday of every month (we create the calendar every December).  We each pay $10 a month (except January, when we pay $20, and December, when we don’t actually play). The hostess provides dinner, dessert, and snacks for the girls, then we play 24 BUNCO rounds (6:30-9:00PM).  Each month, I track most Buncos, wins, etc and give out monetary prizes ($5-$40).  At the end of the year, I add up all the statistics from the year and give out whatever extra money is in the pot (usually around $150).  Every June, we hold a Birthday party with gift exchange (White Elephant, but classy gifts).  In December, we have a Holiday Potluck (with a theme…potato bar, cheese, etc), ornament exchange, and holiday gift exchange (in November, we pick names out of a hat and buy for a specific person).  We always have a really good time talking and laughing throughout the night.  If you would like to join us at any time, let me know.

P.S.  I am also really thankful for the opportunity to see friends in random places (I loved seeing Chad and Heather Spring at Panera Bread tonight!!!!).

Day 10: The Container Store

I've been pretty down on myself about my lack of motivation to get everything unpacked and put away in my apartment.  After living there for 4.5 months, I'd say 85% is unpacked, but I need to get the last boxes out of the garage, so I can actually park there :)  As I look back at the move, I probably should have taken some time off to unpack and settled, but I didn't realize it would take me this long.  In the past, I've only had to move a couple rooms (bedroom, bathroom, some kitchen items), so I didn't realize the time it would take to unpack a whole apartment.  I haven't made unpacking a high priority in my life, but it does seem like if it wasn't one thing, it was another...the holidays, church, temple, travel, work, sickness, etc. 

The bottom line...the unpacking just needs to get done, so I need to get in gear and finish marking it off my perenial To Do list.  To help with my goal,  I am making a trip to one of my favorite stores for some inspiration.  Today, I am thankful for The Container Store.

Located in Fashion Valley, The Container Store houses an organizer's dream...boxes, labels, gadgets, hangers, ideas, etc to make organizing easier.  If I allowed myself to spend the money, I could spend an armful at The Container Store.  I usually just roam the aisles for ideas about future organization (I know, I'm weird, but tonight was no different).  Where else can you find a $99 trash can?  Does it look that special to you?

When I moved to my new apartment, I donated, gave away to friends, or threw away a lot of stuff.  I lived in the Alexandra house for 6 years, so I acculated and adapted to the space I had available.  The new apartment is a nice size (for an apartment), but it isn't a house, so I've had to adapt and purchase more organizational items as I have unpacked. Here is what I bought tonight :) (Can you tell what everything is?  A couple cute floral storage boxes for keepsakes, a tall boot box, a short boot box, 3 travel size shampoo containers, a bag blam container, and a luggage tag...mine broke on my last flight)

P.S.  Thanks for the Facetime Ash and Roe...You crack me up!!!!

Day 9: "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks"

Today, I am thankful for this month's book club selection: Rebecca Skloot's "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks." Before reading the book, I had never heard of Henrietta or HeLa, the cells which changed science forever. Below is a short synopsis from Amazon.com:

"From a single, abbreviated life grew a seemingly immortal line of cells that made some of the most crucial innovations in modern science possible. And from that same life, and those cells, Rebecca Skloot has fashioned in The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks a fascinating and moving story of medicine and family, of how life is sustained in laboratories and in memory. Henrietta Lacks was a mother of five in Baltimore, a poor African American migrant from the tobacco farms of Virginia, who died from a cruelly aggressive cancer at the age of 30 in 1951. A sample of her cancerous tissue, taken without her knowledge or consent, as was the custom then, turned out to provide one of the holy grails of mid-century biology: human cells that could survive--even thrive--in the lab. Known as HeLa cells, their stunning potency gave scientists a building block for countless breakthroughs, beginning with the cure for polio. Meanwhile, Henrietta's family continued to live in poverty and frequently poor health, and their discovery decades later of her unknowing contribution--and her cells' strange survival--left them full of pride, anger, and suspicion. For a decade, Skloot doggedly but compassionately gathered the threads of these stories, slowly gaining the trust of the family while helping them learn the truth about Henrietta, and with their aid she tells a rich and haunting story that asks the questions, Who owns our bodies? And who carries our memories?"



This book really made me think about medical testing legalities, cell preservation, and what is owed for a family member's contributions to science.  What should a doctor or hospital do with a removed appendix or tumor?  How acceptable is it to perform research on blood or tissue not needed for testing?  "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" is a great non-fiction book.

Reading the book also made me think about starting another project...a book review blog.  I read a lot of books (approximately 400 in the past 2.5 years...no wonder I don't have a significant other), I'm a member of 2 book clubs, I'm not a horrible writer (I don't think), and I would love to pass along my recommendations to friends, family, and whoever else wants to hear my opinions.  I'm not exactly sure how I will proceed with the idea, but it's definitely percolating in my mind now :)

Day 8: Teaching Relief Society

In late October 2011, I was asked to be the 1st counselor in my ward's (San Diego 12th) Relief Society.  I was very apprehensive since I just moved into the ward in August, but I've always been taught to accept whatever callings are offered.  Since my call, I've had the blessing to teach 2 lessons to the Relief Society sisters, so today I am thankful for teaching Relief Society.

I've always had a fear of talking in front of large groups.  I always cry and make myself sick from all the worrying.  My last calling was teaching 6 young women (ages 12-18), which was a mixed blessing.  I learned a lot about the gospel from the lessons I prepared, but getting young women to talk is sometimes like pulling teeth.  Teaching Relief Society is very different because there are women 18-90 years old with lifetimes of different experiences and most of them aren't afraid to share :)

Today's lesson was "Living What We Believe" from the George Albert Smith manual.  When George Albert Smith was 34 years old, he made a list of resolutions called his “personal creed”—11 ideals he committed to live by:

1.   Be a friend to the friendless; find joy in ministering to the needs of the poor

2.   Visit the sick and afflicted; inspire a desire for faith to be healed

3.   Teach the truth to the understanding and blessing of all mankind

4.   Seek out the erring one and try to win him back to a righteous and a happy life

5.   Not seek to force people to live up to my ideals, but rather love them into doing the right thing

6.  Live with the masses; help solve their problems, so life may be happy

7.   Avoid the publicity of high positions and discourage the flattery of thoughtless friends

8.  Not knowingly wound the feelings of any, not even one who may have wronged me, but would seek to do good and make him my friend

9.  Overcome selfishness and jealousy; rejoice in the successes of all the children of my Heavenly Father

10. Not be an enemy to any living soul

11.  Know the Redeemer of mankind has offered to the world the only plan that will fully develop us and make us really happy here and hereafter, I feel it not only a duty but also a blessed privilege to disseminate this truth

If I could live the above ideals, my life would be pretty happy, but I know I am there yet.  Preparing for the lesson really made me think about how I am living the gospel in my daily life.  Some gospel principles come really easy to me...tithing, family, prayer, temples, etc. While other items are personal trials and I need to gain a stronger testimony, so they aren't as diffcult for me.  I do want to be known as different from my neighbor for all the good things I am accomplishing.  Being middle of the road isn't good enough.  In the coming weeks, I am going to think about my own life ideals and what it will take to live them. 

Day 7: Working in the Temple

Today, I am thankful for the opportunity to work in the San Diego Temple.  Isn't it beautiful?

This month, I've hit my 2 year anniversary working in the temple. When I was first called to work as an ordinance worker (December 2009), which included weekly shifts  of 5-6 hrs each, I really didn't know how I was going to fit it into my schedule.  Now I can't imagine not working in the temple.  I work every Saturday morning from 6:15am-12 (on average).  I have definitely sacrificed some activities (sleeping in, going out late on Friday nights, etc), but working in the temple has enriched my life.  I have a stronger testimony of eternal families, missionaries, and the creation (among other things).  If you would like to hear more about what the temple means to the Latter Day Saint church, please let me know. 

Last May, I was asked to be an Assistant Coordinator on the Saturday AM shift.  This gives me the opportunity to work with many of the sisters each week (approximately 30 on our shift).  My coordinator, Sister Ruth Halling, and other assistant coordinator, Sister Debbie Robinson, are great and I have learned a lot from them.  The sisters on my shift are fanstastic and I've made some wonderful friends (Michelle, Emerald, Shari, etc).  I also get to meet with the temple presidency and matrons every Saturday.  These men and women, the Finnegans, Jaegars, and Gills, are fantastic and so spriritual.  I am very thankful to be in their presense each week. 

I hope someday I'll be able to work with my husband in the temple.

Day 6: Netflix Streaming

I love movies and television...dramas, action, science fiction, romance, comedies, etc.  The only genre I don't really watch is horror because I am not into the whole blood, guts, and gore.  I love going to the theater to watch movies, but having the ability to watch movies in your own home is also really nice.  Today, I am really thankful for Netflix streaming straight to my TV.  

About a year ago, I bought a Blu-ray player with an internet connection.  I started watching Netflix television shows and movies on my TV whenever I felt the urge.  I've watched Friday Night Lights (all seasons), McLeod's Daughter's (through Season 5, it's an Australian drama), and multiple movies.  I love being able to pick a movie or television show and watch it instantly.  Since I have been sick the past few days, the Netflix streaming has been great because if I fell asleep during a movie I could just restart it and not worry about having to return it to RedBox or Blockbuster (do those stores even exist anymore?)

Someday, I hope I can have a media room similar to my parent's.  They have a sound proof room, projector, recliners, and a 106 inch screen to watch TV and movies.  I watched a movie every day I was there over Christmas. 

Day 5: Sleep

Today, I am thankful for sleep. When I woke up this morning, I immediately knew I wouldn't be going into work.   My head was pounding, my voice non-existent, and I was coughing horribly...thank you sinus infection.  I sent a quick e-mail to my coworkers and boss, took some medicine and went back to sleep.  When I awoke at 1pm, I felt so much better (so maybe I just need to sleep 14 hrs each night :)).  I took a shower, ate a little food, took some more medicine, and slept another 3 hrs.  After sleeping most of the day away, I know I am on the mend.

I've always loved to sleep, which I definitely learned from my mother.  My mom is not a morning person, so everyone knows not to call her before 11am.  She sleeps 10-11 hrs every night.  My bed has always been one of my favorite posessions, but a good night of sleep for me is 7 straight hrs.  I know I need to sleep more (lack of sleep directly affects my migraines and health), but I've always had difficulty falling asleep and sleeping through the night.  Whenever I visit my parent's home, I sleep a lot.  I slept 8-10 hrs almost every night I was there, but I also realize the extra sleep I was getting doesn't make up for all the lack of sleep I normally get. 

This year, one of my goals is get more sleep...approximately 8 hrs a night.  I know getting more sleep will make me sacrifice other things in my life, but I know I will have more energy, be healthier, more productive at work and church, and be happier if I am not tired all the time.

Day 4: Medicine

Today, I am extremely thankful for medicine. 

For the last 2 weeks, I've been suffering from a horrible sinus infection.  Before I left San Diego on 12/22, I had a minor sore throat and running nose, then I took a flight to Dallas, TX. It was the most painful flight I've ever been on. My ears wouldn't pop during/after the flight and I had a hard time hearing anything for 2 days.  Once my ears popped once, they continued to pop everytime I blew my nose (which was often since I was pretty sick).  I went through 2 Kleenex boxes in 3 days.  I was pretty miserable.  The rest of my family (from my dad to Monroe) was also suffering from sickness, so I really didn't even have a chance to not be sick.  I was taking over-the-counter medicine every day, so eventually, I started feeling better, but I still had a bad cough.  

I was feeling pretty good when I got on my flight home yesterday, but today I felt horrible...stupid sick people on the plane.  I went to work for a few hours, but eventually called the doctor for an appointment.  I left work, went home for a nap, then to the Dr.  Dr. Gromer gave me some antibiotics and cough syrup, which I took immediately.  I am not feeling a ton better yet, but I know if I take the medicine as directed I will feel better eventually. 

Since I've suffered from migraines for 20 years, I've always taken prescription medicine, but as I've gotten older I realize how hard my life would be without it.

Day 3: Air Travel

This morning, as I sit at the airport waiting to fly back to San Diego, I am very thankful for air travel.  If air travel wasn't possible, I wouldn't be able to see my family and friends (who live far away) nearly as often as I do.  I couldn't drive the 22 hours to my parent's home in Plano, TX, except maybe once a year.  In 2011, I flew to Boise, Idaho for my Grandfather's 80th birthday; San Francisco, California for Meghan's 30th Birthday and baby shower; and Dallas, Texas 5 times including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and a family vacation.  I also had multiple friends and family members visit me in San Diego.

I didn't step on a plane until I was almost 18 years old, but I haven't stopped flying since then.  My first flight took me to San Jose, CA with my high school Key Club (a service club).  We spent a couple days at a conference, but had plenty of fun, too.  Since then, I've been to Texas (too many times to count), Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charleston, Seattle, Hawaii, and Australia (just to name a few places).  I actually love flying alone...I read, listen to music, make to do lists, and play sudoku, but I also love traveling with my friends (Stacey, Sonja, Barbie, etc).  My favorite airlines are Southwest (for quick trips) and American (for anywhere else). 

In 1st quarter 2012, I already have vacations planned to San Francisco, CA to see the Murphy Family (I can't wait to meet Baby Liam) and Orlando, FL to visit Walt Disney World (for Monroe's first trip to see Mickey Mouse and to meet my new nephew for the first time).  I know you will see lots of posts about those trips :).

Day 2: Honey Mustard

For any of those who have eaten with me, you know I love my sauces...ketchup, ranch, sweet and sour, and most recently honey mustard.  Years ago, my friend Stacey introduced me to the Turkey O'Toole at Bennigan's (love it).  It's a turkey and swiss melt with Honey Mustard on a Pretzel roll and I was hooked.  I started asking for honey mustard for my french fries everywhere.  I've even converted to honey mustard dressing.  I've even converted some of my friends to asking for honey mustard.

Near my parents house is a fantastic restaurant called Babe's Chicken Dinner House (http://www.babeschicken.com/) and I don't even really like chicken.  For my last meal in Texas, my dad took the family for dinner. My family eats at Babe's regularly and I always get the same thing...Chicken Fingers with Amarillo Honey Mustard. It's delicious because jalapenos are added to the mustard making it rather spicy. Everything is served family style...salad, biscuits, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, green beans, and a daily special (today it was collard greens).  We always stuff ourselves, but I never leave without some honey mustard to go :)

Day 1: Monroe's Laugh

Happy 2012!!!  Recently, I began reading "The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun." I've only read a couple chapters so far, but one of my happiness projects is be more grateful for all the amazing things in my life. My plan is to record these things on my blog daily. With the new year, I am revamping my blog and focusing on thankfulness.

According to the dictionary, the word "Thanks" has 2 different meanings...

1. Expression of gratitude

2. Gratitude for something

Today, I am thankful for my niece's (Monroe) laugh.  Monroe has an amazing laugh, but she laughs at the oddest things.  She covers her mouth with her hand and laughs with her full belly.  Currently, her favorite game is "Stealing Your Seat."  When any person gets up from thier seat, Monroe likes to "steal" it.  She thinks it's hilarious.  I love Monroe and her adorable laugh :)