i lost it, oh so long ago...

if you've got my back i'll go on

2012-02-10T13:10:00.000-05:00

loving this song...

if ever i stray, frank turner

have truly learned over the past three months that "as long as i've got me a place to sleep, clothes on my back and some food to eat, i can't ask for anything more"

a special thanks to all of my friends and family who have let me crash on their air mattress, couch, or bed.

on the 15th i am moving again to a new place. i get to pack up my car once again (i have moved 7 times in the last 18 months).

i am heading down to washington d.c. interestingly enough. i visited there a few years ago when i was checking out grad schools. i thought for sure that was where i was going to be. i hated it. i decided that i would never live there. exactly 7 years later (i had visited on president's day weekend) i am moving there.

pros
place has central heat and central air
parking and utilities are included
cafe rio is only 30 minutes away
get a fresh start

cons
traffic
expensive
starting over again

i am excited and terrified all at the same time. wish me luck!!!

only happy when it rains

2011-11-16T19:47:00.000-05:00

maybe not even the least bit true,

but rain + blanket + m&m's + bbq potato chips + harlen coben mystery + tv (new girl, raising hope, suburgatory, and hart of dixie) = happiness

sometimes you gotta lose 'til you win

2011-11-15T21:53:00.000-05:00

today has been, most simply put, weird.

i was not really sad, certainly not happy, kind of cranky and impatient, dirty, tired, and sore. i moved out of my first apartment that was totally and only mine. i had grand designs and visions for the place. i had a super cute couch and pillow. it was warm, bright, and sunny. i lived on a busy street and although loud, i loved hearing the rush of cars, fire trucks, and even buses. it was a perfect place for me.

i am okay with moving out and moving on, but it was still a little bit hard. maybe because i still haven't completely moved. i am still hanging out here and now just staying with a friend, sleeping on an air mattress on the floor. all my belongings are either in storage or in my friends basement. my suitcase is packed full of clothes to last me through life until i can unpack again. but i am not sure when that is... 2 weeks, 6 weeks, maybe even longer.

i am grateful for this friend, but still it feels like i am moving backwards and not progressing the way i had planned. i had so much (okay not really, i knew for several months that i probably wouldn't stay so i put a .hold on buying anything to really make the place mine), but now i have a lot less.

but i still have hope that i will again have a place that is totally and completely mine. i get excited that there might be something better out there for me. and although i was sad to leave my things, i don't dwell on it too much. i am not very sentimental over possesions and although i love nice and beautiful things, i don't feel as if i have my heart set upon the things i own. instead, i have already started planning on how i might decorate my future setting.

maybe it is more of a win than i thought...
i'm okay, it will be alright again.

beauty in the breakdown

2011-11-11T12:31:00.001-05:00

for the past year or so i have been stuck in a rut (and didn't really know it)
this rut wasn't too rocky or rough, but i was in deep
it might have been easier to stay in it, but i decided i didn't like the view
getting out isn't easy, this is going to take some time

i question constantly that i made the right decision
that i am strong and brave enough
it requires a lot of dirty, hard work

the rut is slowly crumbling
my tears have helped to soften the hardened wall
and each day as i change a small part of me
i am able to overcome all that is holding me in

despite it all, i am exited to get back on my own path
change, though difficult is something i enjoy
i do wish i had more of a plan in place
but i will say that i am learning to enjoy the journey
as i have no destination in mind

and i know there is beauty in the breakdown

it happened again

2011-06-03T18:05:00.000-04:00

had been sick all day,
still in my pajamas, sweats and a white tee (no bra)
hair messy, skin smelling of vapor rub
neighbor and friend dropped by to visit
not wanting them to see my luggage (or its contents)
which are strewn over the entirety of my apartment
(had not yet fully unpacked from a trip to texas)
or smell the scent of "sick" in my apartment (you know what i mean)
slowly started to shut the door
when a breeze blew through my opened window
and shut the door for good
yes, i was locked out
barefoot and sight to behold
traipsed to the superintendent's to get a spare key
not at home, didn't pick up the phone
what is a girl to do
this girl meets another new neighbor emily
(she happens to be in one of the single wards)
emily, super nice, has happened to lock herself out of her apartment twice
had to call the fire department twice to break into her place
i call the fire department (they actually thought i was emily)
they break in
all is well again

neighbors brian and emily have copies of my spare keys
please say i can keep it together and not do this again

also what do you think
brownies or cookies for the fire department

my so called work life

2011-03-28T20:56:00.000-04:00

my work life really is a cross between

the office and the big bang theory

no it isn't really funny in real life

conversation one

me: "what does the bound mean?"

him: "it sets the upper or lower bound of the alarm for the specific parameters that the user has determined that will appropriately reflect the then current conditions that will need to be measured showing the status of the perfusion of the patient" (and correct grammer is the then, not a typo)

me: "so what you are trying to tell me is that the bound means the limit of the alarm"

him: "well it isn't a limit, its a bound"

me: "that means the same thing as a limit"

conversation two

me: "so if i download the trial product on april 29, 2011 it will expire on april 30, 2011?"

him: "yes, we decided on a 30 day fixed date"

me: "no, we decided on they could have the trail for 30 days before needing to get a upgraded version" (which don't even get me started on the process of the downloading or the upgraded part)

him: "no, we decided that it was a fixed 30 days"

me: "what product have you ever downloaded that said you had 30 days and it expired the next day?"

conversation three

him: "we need to figure out how to lock a starting date on the download"

me: "what?!, and why?!"

him: "people may backdate their computer in order to prevent the trial from expiring"

(actually not a bad idea, especially if they knew what they had to do to renew or get an upgraded version)

lessons learned so far:

business and research don't mix

old business and new business don't mix

wear ponytails to prevent me from pulling out all my hair

hot or not

2011-03-21T20:17:00.000-04:00

lately i love eating a burrito grande

from a hole in the wall place near where i work

i have noticed that i get extra special attention

that other customers and my coworkers do not get

i don't know if the guy(s) think i am hot

they just love that i always ask for extra hots

(a green hot sauce with a little kick

that's why i ask for extra cuz i like a lot of kick)

anyway... makes me smile

also... don't you love it when people compliment on your looks

especially when you do nothing to get ready

friend tells me she loves my make-up today

all i had on was mascara

maybe i am hot?!?!

i want this

2011-03-16T22:24:00.000-04:00

i am loving my apartment and i really want this

it would go perfect with my couch

wish i had more money but really i probably wouldn't spend it on a pillow

maybe my mom can make it for me

just another manic monday

2011-02-28T21:50:00.000-05:00

so happy today is almost over

started off with waking up super late. i forgot to change my alarm from my sunday morning time. in my rush, forgot to email the document i spent hours working on this weekend. had to come back home during lunch to send it to me.

worked on document for the rest of the day. ready to leave work at 6:45 but no such luck. computer wouldn't let me save document. finally figured out what the problem was. curse you microsoft office why won't your versions all match up.

stopped at target (only about the millionth trip in a week) forgot a necessity. of course bought a few other things as well. parked and started to look for house key. couldn't find it. searched car, coat, purse, and all pockets, still no luck. stopped at superintendent to pick up another one. they don't have it either. ended up getting a ladder and breaking in through a window.

found my key. fell through a hole in my coat pocket and was near the zipper. noticed my coat felt heavier (kinda crazy since a key is pretty light).

eating dinner of gummi bears, diet coke, and honey bbq fritos

can't wait to climb into my comfy bed

Life Moves Pretty Fast

2010-12-06T22:05:00.000-05:00

all in one week i

celebrated my 30th birthday

got a job

moved across the country

my birthday turned out to be one of my favorites ever | paul and erin picked up McDonald's for breakfast

b-day package from mom filled with cards from some of my most favorite people

received official job offer | Chili's for dinner | fun times with friends | gift card to Nordstrom's

after two long years i am finally employed again | business manager/manager of customer development(US)

packed up life in Austin | shipped car | flew to Boston

enjoying old friends | missing new friends | bundling up

overall excited, overwhelmed, grateful, and adjusting

A Few of My Favorite Things:LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT

2010-11-17T11:42:00.001-05:00

i love make-up

i love MAC make-up

i love MAC holiday collections (they are such a steal of a deal)

this year i couldn't pass up the dashing lassie eye colors

they are perfect tones of brown that blend well with everything

make-up makes me happy

Is it just the BLUES?

2010-11-16T02:20:00.003-05:00

i now know what my problem is...
maybe you have felt it too
i hope i am not the only one

"The Germans have a term for what you're feeling,

"weltschmerz."

It means the depression that arises from comparing

the world as it is to a hypothetical idealized world."

Sheldon Cooper

The Big Bang Theory

(or in case you don't believe this is a real word)

The modern meaning of Weltschmerz in the German language is the psychological pain caused by sadness that can occur when realizing that someone's own weaknesses are caused by the inappropriateness and cruelty of the world and (physical and social) circumstances. Weltschmerz in this meaning can cause depression, resignation, and escapism, and can become a mental problem.
Wikipedia

i won't lie

the past few years have been hard

i have often wanted to give up

but i am not quite sure what that means

or even how to do that

what is interesting to me

is that my ideal world

really isn't that ideal

and shouldn't be that hard to achieve

yet somehow it alludes me

despite my best efforts

so where does that leave me

right now i honestly don't know

i have to stop myself from looking to the future

or dwelling in the past

just taking it one day at a time

trying to trust myself and the decisions i have made

and learning to find beauty in the details of my life

Week in Review

2010-11-12T12:02:00.000-05:00

hung with my two favorite guys

they are so fun and often the highlight of my day

saw this movie Morning Glory

i really liked it and it totally made me miss East Coast living

all that could console me was the fact that i was driving home in sunny 80 degree weather

lost in Austin

dang one way streets

the Institute almost succeeded in hiding from me

no matter, still didn't make it

no parking (why do i choose to live in trafficky places)

started working out again

found a fun little pond to walk and maybe eventually run around

waiting until next week to get started on Physique 57 (kicks my butt everytime)

but i want really want these results

applied for 20+ jobs

pray i get an interview with even just one

decided there is nothing else i hate more than job searching

ugghhhh

A Few of My Favorite Things

2010-11-10T00:31:00.000-05:00

awesome

smells so good, maybe like summer

pretty sure the neighbors heard me ooh la la it up in the shower

awful rumor that they are discontinuing it

must pick up more just to be safe

a must have in a humid place

Day 9 A Photo I Took

2010-04-09T00:07:00.000-04:00

Yes, I took this. Isn't it incredible? I just love it.

BTW, these falls can be found in British Columbia somewhere between Vancouver and Whistler.

Day 8 A Photo That Makes Me Angry/Sad

2010-04-09T00:00:00.001-04:00

I am an avid MTV Hits watcher lately they have had a lot of commercials asking for support of the ASPCA. Now if you know me at all, you know I am not an animal lover AT ALL. I hope that I never have a pet. I don't even want fish. (Yes, I do love our family dog now, but I still don't want one of my own that I have to be responsible for.) Every time I hear the commercial, I can't change it fast enough. I hate seeing these poor animals being neglected and abused. If you couldn't take care of the pet, then you should NOT have CHOSEN to get it. It makes me so angry that people can do this to such innocent animals. They don't know better. So this is a photo that makes me both angry and sad. (It is small because I don't really want to see it and shows very little abuse, but it is something I have been feeling more strongly about.)

Day 7 A Photo That Makes Me Happy

2010-04-07T23:14:00.000-04:00

I love my family!

Day 6 Whatever Tickles My Fancy

2010-04-07T21:07:00.001-04:00

I have a ton of things to do on my to do list.

I only checked off one thing.

Blame the 90 degree weather.

Day 5 My Favorite Quote

2010-04-07T21:03:00.000-04:00

"It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end." Ursula Leguin

This is the story of my life. I am a total destination person. I couldn't wait to finish high school so that I could be in college. I wanted to rush through college so I could get a good job and start earning money. Beauty school, okay that was fine to rush through. Even when I went to grad school I rushed through finishing in 18 months instead of 2 years. But why? All I find is another stressful situation that isn't necessarily better or worse, just different. I would like to say that I have learned to enjoy the journey more, but I have a feeling this is a lesson that I will be learning over and over in my life.

I just read Eat, Love, Pray by Elizabeth Gilbert. I really enjoyed this book and one passage struck out to me. I think this describes my inability to find much joy in the journey. She talks about time and how short it is. It really bothers her. It also bothers me. I feel I have to push myself at maximum speeds in order to experience everything possible. If I could split myself into multiple Mollie's I would so do that. That way I wouldn't have to miss a moment of life. She then tells a story of a friend from Ireland who was sharing his stories of travel and self exploration to his father. This friend tells his dad that it was essential because it helps to quiet your mind. His father then tells him he already has a quiet mind. I don't. I am way to anxious, interested, and involved with life. I don't know how to let go or sit back and relax, sometimes I don't really know if I want to either.

Anyway... For right now I am trying to enjoy my time in Boston, even though I am on a path I never thought I would be on, and I am trying not to wish to be on to the next phase. I just need to take one day at a time.

Day 4 My Favorite Book

2010-04-05T13:59:00.001-04:00

Stillwatch by Mary Higgins Clark

I remember reading it when I was 13 or 14 and while babysitting my cousin. He was taking a nap and this book was part of my aunt's collection. I always loved reading and so it was natural for me to choose to read during my free time instead of watching TV. I had also always loved mysteries since the 3rd grade when I was introduced to Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys. Stillwatch seemed like the perfect choice for a dark afternoon.

The book was perfect for me. I loved the main character Pat Traymore. She was everything that I wanted to be at that age. She lived on the East Coast, was smart, well educated and had an awesome thriving career. I loved all of the intrigue and suspense. I could not put the book down.

After reading this I became a Mary Higgins Clark fan and have read all of her books. I love how in all of her books the main character/heroine is such a strong female character. That really appealed to me during my teenage years. I wanted to experience life outside of Utah. I wanted a career that I could be successful in and satisfy all of my ambitious designs. The women in her books showed me that this was possible. I feel that these books helped to shape my desires and did influence who I have become.

Day 3 My Favorite Television Show

2010-04-03T22:24:00.000-04:00

Easy... Alias. I love that show so very, very much. I actually didn't watch it while it was on TV, except for 1 or 2 episodes from which I knew that I would love it. So I waited until it came out on DVD. This happened to be while I was living in LA going to grad school. I would make myself wait until I had a weekend of nothing to do (which didn't happen as often as I would have liked) and then I would watch as many episodes one right after another all weekend. I loved it! I wanted to BE Jennifer Garner/Sydney Bristow. Honestly, who didn't right? Hot handler/boyfriend, lives in LA, travels the world, is a genius, hot body, and did you see all the disguises? My favorites ones always involved red hair. Secret obsession. (I love bright red hair!) Anyway, there you have it.

Day 2 My Favorite Movie

2010-04-02T22:47:00.000-04:00

I think my choice for favorite movie is The Italian Job. I love this movie and watch it over and over. It's a perfect modern day heist with subtle humor and hot guys. Plus, I love that it is set in LA. Maybe, that is what I will watch tonight (don't worry I watched it last week too.)

Day 1 My Favorite Song

2010-04-01T12:12:00.002-04:00

It is impossible for me to narrow it down to one song! So I won't. Here is my list of faves depending on the day, the weather, my mood, or the season.

Sunny Day: Mr. Brightside by The Killers

Running: Life of a Salesman by Yellowcard

Airplane: Cath by Death Cab for Cutie

Rainy Day: Your Ex-Lover is Dead by Stars

Country: She's in Love with the Boy by Trisha Yearwood

Love: As Lovers Go by Dashboard Confessional

Break-up: Pieces by Sum 41

Angry: Chop Suey by System of a Down

Depressed: Grey Street by Dave Matthews Band

Mom in the Car: Cecila by Simon and Garfunkel

80's: Heaven is A Place on Earth by Belinda Carlisle

Road Trip: Damnit by Blink 182

Remake: Hurt by Johnny Cash

Church Song: Lead Kindly Light

Classical: Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven

Christmas: What Child Is This?

I can't leave off Headstrong by Trapt, Apologize by One Republic, Fidelity by Regina Spektor, Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels) by The Arcade Fire, and The Luckiest by Ben Folds Five.

So there you have it a glimpse of my most played in ITunes.

This is not an April Fool's Joke

2010-04-01T11:30:00.002-04:00

I am going to try and do 30 days of consecutively blogging. Yes, I said 30. I don't even know if I have done 30 posts over an entire year so we will see how this little experiment goes. I am following this suggestion cheat sheet I found on my friend's blog and I think it will be interesting.

you did what? that is AWESOME!!!

2010-03-29T12:26:00.000-04:00

According to my 18 year old brother I am officially awesome. How did I suddenly become awesome in his eyes? Was it that he finally realized I am smart, responsible, have great taste in music, movies, and TV? Or maybe he finally appreciates my lame attempts at humor or even my willingness to complete his homework.

Oh yeah, all it took was me going paintballing.

This is an activity that I am rather ambivalent about. I definitely see the appeal of this "sport" for teenage boys and actually think it is a better use of their time than throwing ping pong balls at each other or other forms of torture that they come up with. That being said, I will further describe my experience on Saturday and you will better understand my ambivalence towards this activity.

I signed up to go about a month ago to help a friend celebrate her birthday. I am not quite sure why I signed up. I think I was on a kick about being more social and trying new and different things. By the time Saturday morning rolled around I was ready to kick myself for signing up and paying for something so not me. I am not a fan of guns (and not for any reasons that are logical, I just have a really hard time aiming and I hate missing the target), I hate activities that involve pain (though I think I inflicted far more bruises from any basketball game or aches from snowboarding than I did from these little paintballs), I don't like foreign objects flying at me at an average speed of 200 miles with only a distance of 8 to 20 feet, and I hate wearing masks that have touched someone else's sweaty face. Anyway...

Round 1. Barely survived and was ready to quit. I got hit in the gut (where at least I have a lot of natural padding) it hurt, but I survived and the paintball didn't even break. Then I got hit in the back of the neck, OWWWWW and other expletives, it was all I could do not to cry. It still hurts for my hair to touch that part of my neck. I hated it it and was so happy to leave the playing field. Now this is where my stubbornness/competitiveness comes into play. I can't just quit after one round, especially a round we just lost.

Round 2. We killed the other team, I got sheer satisfaction for shooting one of my friends who was advancing into my safety zone. Eventually I got hit (in the arm and just a little sting) but our team still one. I decided it was a great time for me to quit.

All in all , I don't hate the activity, but I don't know that it is something I would do very often.

sorry no pics in my crazy get-up (meaning the ugly mask)

60 is my new 80

2010-03-17T13:50:00.000-04:00

Growing up in Utah, I actually really enjoyed the 4 seasons, a range of temperatures, and even inclement weather. All of that changed after spending a short time of my life in Southern California. My new weather forecast consisted of sunny and in the 80's. Ideal!!! And completely realistic in Los Angeles. I remember what a rude awakening I had upon my return to Utah. Gray skies (thanks inversion), unbearably hot or cold temperatures, and rain/snow combo's... UGGHHHH!!!! I did not adjust well.

Fast forward 4 years...Boston weather. I had no idea what "real" weather could be like. The word Nor'Easter sends chills down my spine (unless accompanied by the words Church cancelled). But as much as I did not adjust to Utah weather after Cali, I have finally learned to change my frame of reference here in Boston.

Hence 60 is my new 80. I find I enjoy it just as much.

song of the week ... Bulletproof by La Roux

2010-03-12T14:52:00.000-05:00

I am a lover of all things music video related. I watch any style of music and I watch them frequently. The video I am showing this week has been a favorite for quite a while and I just want to share it. My roommate thinks the video is quite boring, but I love the concept, the make-up, her hair, and the song. My favorite part is around 2:45. I absolutely love the abstract and techno vibe of this video. I hope you enjoy...

misadventures of miss me

2010-02-22T11:32:00.002-05:00

QUEBEC CITY, CANADA

For Valentine's Day weekend a group of seven of us went up to Quebec to go to the winter festival there. It was so amazing! I LOVE that city. It was so beautiful.

first stop... Ice Hotel

I was totally excited to go here. After seeing the ice hotel in a James Bond movie, I have always wanted to see one. It did not disappoint. They had a ton of different theme rooms including a Fluer de Lis, Eclipse, Grecian Paradise, Aquarium, and others. They also had a chapel, an ice slide, and a bar.

next... Winter Festival

This was actually a little bit of a let down for me. I was expecting something bigger and better. But hey, I got to go snow rafting for the 1st ever. And if you wondered where they got the human body mascot idea for community check out the mascot for the Festival.

later... Poutine is a truly Quebec/Canadian food. It is french fries with gravy and cheese curds. I had heard it was a must have. Honestly, I prefer cheese fries and dipping sauce from Training Table.

next day... We checked out Quebec City. It was such a beautiful city. It was what I imagine Eastern Europe (or at least what I imagine Prague) to be like. We walked around, saw the best lingerie ever (yes it is a full fishnet bodysuit complete with leopard print handcuffs), and had some great crepes for lunch.

Stories Not Routinely Told

2010-02-21T21:40:00.000-05:00

My blog entires should be changing up shortly. I want this blog to more accurately reflect who I am and what I think about anything. I know that I have a wall that I often hide behind. But I want this wall to slowly come down and for a few more people to be invited to see what is behind it.

3rd Time's the Charm

2009-10-19T13:31:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity to go to Palmyra again. A friend was in town and really wanted to go and check it out in the fall (she had been there every other season, just not fall.) I was up for some fun and decided to take the trek out there with her. I finally was able to see all the church history sites (and even did the tours, though we told them we only had a few minutes at each place and got the condensed version. That my fave way to do it.)

Only misadventure that occurred was missing the turn-off from the 87 to the 90 on our way back. 42 miles later I happened to see a NYC 100 miles away sign that helped us realize we were on the wrong road!! So it only added an additional 2 hours to our 12 hour road trip. But it was some good times with a great friend.

Not Quite Sure What To Think

2009-10-13T15:55:00.000-04:00

Today I went to the my gym, the YMCA. It's kind of a happening place, there always seems to be a lot going on. Anyway, I went during lunch time. I was just finishing up on the elliptical machine and was getting ready to move on to the treadmill. I was pretty excited because my very favorite treadmill was totally open. (It is by a fan and on the back row.) I rarely get it because the gym is generally busy. Today, was an exception. There was only a few of us there. (I was loving it!) Then suddenly a guy totally gets onto the treadmill next to the one I want. Note: I hate it when there are a ton of machines open and someone comes right next to you. Dang! Plan B, go to the rowing machine and wait for new dude to leave. I have good reason to think he might not last too long because his work out shoes happen to be the big yellow construction boots (except they are dark brown.) I was right, not even 5 minutes later he gets off and heads out. I get on the treadmill and begin that part of my workout. About 10 minutes into my slow jog, the guy comes back in and starts up again on the treadmill next to me. Apparently, he needed some sustenance to get through his workout. Lucky for the dude, there is a Dunkin Donuts right across the street from the YMCA. Yes, he went and got a doughnut and a iced coffee and brought it back with him. He slowly walked, watched Vegas on TV, and munched on his lunch. I wasn't quite sure what to think. A HUGE part of me was jealous. I want to eat a doughnut. The other part of me was totally confused. I don't quite get his thinking.

Hmmm... Overall, I just thought it was pretty funny and reminded me why I love the members of the YMCA!

Whew...

2009-10-07T10:31:00.000-04:00

So I signed up for a tutoring opportunity through our stake. It is called Books and Basketball. Students from 3rd - 12th grades are assigned to tutors (members of the singles wards) to help them with their homework one night a week. We do homework for an hour and then the kids can play basketball or games for 30 minutes. It is a great program and a lot of fun. The kids are great and I love this type of service.

Anyway, I was paired up with a senior in high school. She is a great girl and SUPER smart. She is trilingual and in all Honors/AP classes. For the past few times we met she has needed help with her topics class. Now what is topics you may ask. Let me tell you... it is algebraic concepts, paired with some trigonometry, lots of statistics/probability, and some calculator programming. Is it over your head yet? Because it is for sure over mine. Secretly, I am wondering how come I didn't get paired up with a 3rd grader. That seems to be more of my speed lately.

So for last night's homework, we needed to write a program for a graphing calculator that would help determine the probability of random coin tosses. I was actually pretty impressed with both of our abilities. We were able to do most of the steps until we came to the final step. We needed to program this statement "If N< LblQ ...". To be honest, this was the easiest step of the problem. Except for we couldn't find the < than sign on the calculator. After we both searched for several minutes through all sorts of menus I decided to call on other fellow tutors to help me out with this. Matt, an engineer for Raytheon (rocket sciences and such) was of no help. Thankfully Abby who is somehow involved with statistics found it. (But don't worry in the meantime we found someone with a Blackberry and assigned them to Google how to find the sign.) Whew... found it and typed the command in and finally we were able to run the problem set.

Take home from last night:

I am so thankful for my awesome memory so that I could remember how to work a graphing calculator. (I haven't used on one since Pre-Calc in 11th grade.)
I am thankful for my critical thinking skills I have developed through many years of schooling and challenging work environments.
I am thankful for having had experience in some programming and working with computers.
I don't know how I will ever be able to help my kids with their homework... I feel for Mom's out there.
I am sooooo GLAD I am done with school!

Autumn in New England

2009-10-06T11:06:00.001-04:00

This week I took a trip up to New Hampshire and took a beautiful drive along the the Kancamagus Scenic Byway. It was an awesome way to see some spectacular fall foliage.

What I Have Done...

2009-09-08T11:36:00.000-04:00

The past month has been super busy with a lot going on. Here is a brief recap of the past few weeks.

Lots and lots of painting...

With new roommates moving in, we decided to paint the game room, living room, and a bedroom. The kitchen may or may not happen still. I will show the dramatic changes after we have finished unpacking.

Girls Camp...

I helped out my friend Cami with the tie-dying activity at girls camp.

Crocheting...

The Boston Temple is needing new altar cloths. I have been feeling more creative lately and decided I would crochet one. Here is just one square.

Day Tripping...

Walden Pond. It is so beautiful. It was pouring rain that day, but I am sure to go again and will post pictures. I can't wait to see it when all of the leaves have changed colors for the fall.

Strawbery Banke, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Fun historical neighborhood from the late 1700's - 1950's. Did you know that in it's heyday it was as busy as Boston or Chicago?

Hampton Beach, New Hampshire. Craving a fried Twinkie? This is the place for you.

York, Maine. This was a beautiful place. We couldn't access the lighthouse but it is gorgeous and I loved the rocky beach.

Nantucket, Massachusetts. Totally quaint. This place is New England at its finest.

Revere Beach, Massachusetts. Sand sculpting contest. I can't believe people can create this.

Concerts...

I finally was able to see one of my very favorite bands The Killers in concert. I had a great time!

Change of Tactics

2009-08-13T22:53:00.000-04:00

...so we still have not caught the mouse. We know for sure there are at least two, and I am deathly afraid that we actually have a colony. Yuck! Our placement of traps (baited with peanut butter) has proved to be unsuccessful. I am pretty sure they are coming from back behind the stove and then running willy-nilly into the rest of our living quarters. So I came up with the brilliant idea to block their access to the rest of our house. The towel was Tristan's idea so that they can't push them out of the way. I am praying this strategy works. If anyone has better ideas, please feel free to share them with me. I am desperate!

It's War: Tristan vs. Mickey

2009-08-10T23:17:00.000-04:00

So you know my post from a while back about the mouse... update, we still have not caught it. We have had traps out for weeks but so far no luck. We do know that we still have it as we have had several sightings (it really likes my roomie Emily's room) and it leaves disgusting evidence on our stove top. Finally Tristan decided she has had enough. So last night we tried to set up snap traps (we had been informed that sticky traps are inhumane and ineffective.) That was a disaster. They were not easy to set up as they snapped and flung our bait everywhere. Needless to say it proved to be incredibly stressful and we didn't catch Mickey. Tristan came home tonight with a new plan in mind.

Hopefully this will do the trick. Especially because I had just had a sighting of the nasty little monster while getting ready to take the pic. It is definitely feeding off around the stove. I can't wait til we catch the damn thing. (Okay normally I don't swear on this, but I haven't had sleep for weeks because of this critter and now I won't sleep tonight because I have to keep watch that it won't enter my room.) UUGGHHHHH!!! (When I create my own world there will be no mice or pickles.)

Score: Mickey 1 Tristan 0 (only so far!)

Quick Trip

2009-07-15T18:43:00.000-04:00

Sunday
Decide that I want to go see the Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra, NY.

Monday
Find a friend to go with me and book a hotel room.

Tuesday
Leave super early 7:30 am (okay I know it's not super early and we actually didn't leave until 8:00 am.)

Drive for 6 hours. (Yes, there were stops including one in Syracuse. I have decidedthat I do not like that city and I hope that I will never have to stop there again. I do not have good experiences there.)

Arrive at Fingerlakes Inn. (Better than the hotel in Niagara and doesn't smell like urine, but flip flops will still be needed as I will not touch the carpet with my bare feet.)

Attend 4:30 session at Palmyra temple. (Cannot be late as I had to reserve a spot.)

Park and find a place to sit at pageant. Got great seats, but note to self: do not get there early. You meet way to many cast members and I feel bad for refusing the referral cards. However; the people watching was awesome. (How do you spot a Mormon? They are wearing capri's! Including yours truly.)

Watch a fun production, get out of the parking lot ASAP. Stop a nearest gas station to fill up on hot chocolate. (I sure could have used my snuggie. It was way cold!)

Go to bed.

Today
Check out of Fingerlakes Inn. Find breakfast at gas station.

Take a long walk through the Sacrad Grove. Realized it was even better the 2nd time around.

Drive through the Main Street of Palmyra.

Drive up to see the monument at Hill Cumorah. Help old grandma not fall down the hill.

Get back on the road and head home.

Yep, that makes this trip less than 24 hours. I had so much fun and am looking forward to my next adventure, whatever that may be.

Everyone Should Experience This!

2009-07-07T00:49:00.001-04:00

This 4th of July was the best ever! I am such a lucky girl! The festivities started on Friday. We packed up snacks, games, blankets, umbrellas, and lawn chairs and braved carrying all of this onto the T. (This is quite a feat!) Then we waited in line to go reserve a spot on the lawn of the Hatch Shell to watch the rehearsal of the Boston Pops concert. This year the guest artist was none other than Neil Diamond! Yes, I did know some of the words to his songs and we were lucky enough to hear "Comin' to America" twice. The 1812 Overture with cannons was also really cool. It was totally fun and a great way to start of the holiday weekend.

On the 4th, a small group of us went to hang out at the beach. It was about time, we have had such rainy weather that the sunshine and beach time was a total treat! Around 6 I headed down to the Charles river to join some friends to watch the fireworks. A huge shout out to great friends that went super early to save seats! (They got there about 2 to reserve a spot for the fireworks at 10:30 that night.) Lucky Unders, Uno, Brazilian kisses, and guitars helped to pass the time away. Then the show began. It was incredible. Actually incredible doesn't even begin to describe it. The fireworks filled the sky. It was better than any grand finale I have ever seen at Stadium of Fire and it went on for 21, yes I said 21 minutes! I just laid down and watched the sky light up. You could feel every boom vibrate through your body and I just watched in total amazement. It was better than I could have ever expected!

I Love My Life

2009-07-07T00:41:00.000-04:00

So a few weeks ago, it was my 10 year high school reunion. I did not go, but it is interesting to think about how much my life has changed in 10 years. My life hasn't gone exactly as I had planned but I have really accomplished alot and it has been even better than I could have planned. I graduated from college, went to beauty school, went back for more school and got a Master's degree. I lived in Los Angeles and learned to love it there and now I am in Boston! Crazy! I have been able to experience so much and this past week I was able to realize I have such a great life!

I Know I'm A Grown Up...

2009-06-26T18:23:00.000-04:00

But I still need my mom and am so happy that she is always there for me! So I had a little bit of a crisis pretty late last night and needed some reassurance, advice, and a little TLC (not the cable station.) The situation was, I got home around 12:30 and as I started to take off my bracelets and earrings I heard a noise like I had dropped some of my jewelery. I am just about to get down and see what I had dropped when I see a fat, brown, ugly, little monster, in the form of a mouse. UUGGGHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

I was so tired and I just wanted to climb into bed (I was so tired I wasn't even going to brush my teeth) and now I had to deal with this sick, disgusting creature that had taken refuge directly under the bed. I quickly put my flip-flops back on, because I need my shoes on to handle this problem and decide that perhaps I will brush my teeth after all, while I try and figure out what to do.

I come up with the brilliant idea that I will turn off the light in my room, so the "little monster" will think I have left and will want to leave as well. In the meantime, I will just chill on the couch (with my feet up off the ground) and watch something on TV. However, this plan did not go over as well as I had hoped. The light in the living room had burned out sometime this week, unbeknownst to me. Darn! Okay that was actually not the word that I used, but I still was thinking positively. I will just turn on the lamp, Darn! For some reason that lamp is not working either. I refuse to sit in the dark just waiting to hear his little claws clicking against the wooden floor. What do I do now?

I call my mom. I know that she will probably be in bed, but she won't be asleep and she will know what to do. Well, she doesn't know exactly what to do, but she does listen to my complaints, puts up with my whining, and tries to console me the best she can.

However; I refuse to be consoled. No, I won't sleep on the couch. Are you sure it won't crawl up into my bed? I just read a book about mice and rats eating fingers and toes off of lepers in India, are you positive that it won't eat me? I know, this all sounds like I am overreacting and maybe I was a little bit. (After all, I am not a leper nor do I live in India.) But c'mon it is now after 1:00 in the morning, I am super tired and I am not sure how I am going to even sleep if the "little monster" leaves my room.

Eventually the invader scurried into the living room and I very cautiously made my way to my room. I finally got off the phone with my mom, with strict instructions for her to pray for me that the mouse would not come back in. I read my scriptures, while listening to make sure no other invaders where hiding out. (Don't ask me what I would have done had there been more in there!) Once I was pretty confident that there were no more "monsters", I turned off the light, jumped into bed, pulled my covers up tight around me, and fell asleep. (I was impressed I only had a couple of nightmares that the mouse was crawling over me during the night.)

I just have to say that even though I may live 2,372 miles away from home it is nice to know my mom is only a phone call away. I also need to give a shout out to my dad for providing a lot of facts on mice, including: how big of a space they can crawl through, how the poison works (our traps have been out for a week, and so far no luck, I am exploring other options), what type of furniture do they climb (they climb onto our kitchen counters so why wouldn't they climb onto my bed?) and other pieces of information. I am so grateful for my family and all that they do for me!

Wonders of the World

2009-05-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

This holiday weekend was so much fun! My roommates Tristan, Katie and I road tripped it to Niagara Falls. We decided to go to the Canadian side, which I was happy about because I did the US side a few months ago. For a long time Niagara Falls was on my list of places to go and see (after all, it is one of the many wonders of the world). I didn't imagine that I would be able to go and see it twice within a year. But I have to admit, I really love this place.

We went on the Maid of the Mist, a quintessential experience of the falls. Tristan was determined not to get wet at all, so she tied her plastic blue rain thing as tight as she could get it. (I had apparently gave up on trying to keep mine on.)

Later that night we went to dinner at Hard Rock, took a ride on the SkyWheel, and had fun browsing through shops. I was laughing so hard over the fun Katie had with the beaver hats. We could barely stop laughing long enough to take the picture.

The next day, we did the Journey Behind the Falls. It was really cool. It was kind of like the scene in The Last of the Mahicans, but with a fence and concrete tunnels.

Niagara Falls was so much fun, but so was the road trip part. JC Penney's in Syracuse, an insane stalker van driver, and Michael Bolton provided hours of stories and laughter. I am so blessed to have such great friends and opportunities to do such fun things in my life.

A Perfect Day! and a Dark Night...

2009-05-22T09:18:00.000-04:00

My summer is officially starting! I spent the whole day yesterday at the beach with my roommie Katie. It was in the 90's, the sand was hot, water iceberg cold (not kidding, it numbs your body, but that's okay cuz I don't get in the water anyway!), and the wind blew cool breezes constantly. I loved every minute of it! I hope this signs of a lovely summer to come. It was a perfect day!

Then the night came. One of the traditions for several of my friends here in Boston is to go night swimming in Walden Pond. Walden Pond is a state park and therefore, night swimming is not allowed. In other words, illegal. But I think that is 95% of the appeal of it all (also, it is dark so no one can see you in your swimsuit, you decide which has greater appeal.) Anyway, a few of us decide to go last night. I was really excited, this would be my first of hopefully many trips to Walden Pond at night. We get there, park our cars and begin the short walk to the pond. When suddenly a cop stops us and asks us where we are headed. I think he was giving us the benefit of the doubt and an opportunity to be honest because it was pretty obvious where we were headed dressed in swimsuits and holding towels. He firmly informs us that swimming at Walden Pond after dark is ILLEGAL. He then lets us know that if we choose to not return to our cars, our cars will be towed. Of course we head back to our cars, laughing all the way because this is the only time that my friends had been caught in the act. The police follows us all the way back to the cars and once again informs each and everyone of us that swimming at Walden Pond after dark is illegal.

All of us are sad that we are in our swimsuits and we feel that we should go somewhere. We decide to go to the beach. I was in the car that was following the lead car and we were taking some crazy roads and turns trying not to lose the first car. We quickly turn on a side street and just narrowly miss getting hit by a car trying to follow the first crazy car. Don't worry the car that almost hit us was a cop car. We are not on the side street for more than a second when the blue lights start flashing. Crap! We can't believe it, two cop stories in one night! Anyway, he just wanted to warn us that we were on a one way street going the wrong way. He then gave us directions to get to the beach. Whew!!!!

Eventually we end up at the beach. By this time it is pretty late (after midnight), and I know there is no way I am getting in the water. (As I mentioned previously, that water was freezing.) My awesome roommie Katie walks in, plugs her nose and goes all in! She is CRAZY!!!!! But that is why I love her and will miss her when she moves in a few weeks. She reminded me that I should have more fun in life and seize the moment more often. So maybe the next time I have the opportunity to enter a freezing body of water in the pitch black of night, I just might do it.

What A Day!

2009-05-17T15:56:00.000-04:00

Today was stake conference. I have to admit I wasn't really sure that I wanted to go. Two hours on cramped uncomfortable benches didn't sound that fun and I figured I wouldn't miss too much. Besides, I could just get the highlights from my roommates that were going.

Then my conscience kicked in and I decided I really should go. Once I got there I was really happy that I decided to go. This conference was being broadcast from SLC and the speakers scheduled were Bruce D. Porter, Mary N. Cook, Robert D. Hales, and Henry B. Eyring. I was way excited for the talks by Elder Hales and Elder Eyring; unfortunately, I would end up not hearing their talks.

About 5 minutes into Sister Cook's talk the fire alarm goes off in the church. We all just sit there and I begin to wonder who pulled the prank of setting off the fire alarm. We all remain in the chapel for about a minute when the bishop stood up and decided to exit the church. Of course, the minute we see him stand up we all follow. We get up and walk outside, totally casually. Some people left their coats, scriptures, and other stuff on the benches because there is no way there is a real fire.

We get outside and we can see smoke coming off the roof and a small fire starting among the rain gutter area. But it was super small and I figured the fire department would come and it would be easily taken care of. I had no idea the seriousness of the situation.

There is a large horseshoe driveway and yard area that all of us members moved to. As people are still exiting the church we suddenly see large flames on the roof. By this time, we know this is a big deal. It was a HUGE deal. Within twenty minutes our church was engulfed in flames. It was really quite indescribable.

Here a few pics of the different stages of the fire: (keep in mind this all happened in about 20 minutes.)

Now I know these pictures don't do it enough justice so here is some other facts about the fire to help illustrate the severity of this fire. Fire departments from the surrounding communities of Belmont, Somerville, Waltham, and Watertown provided assistance. The fire was fought with 22 engines, seven ladder companies, and about 80 firefighters. It was pure craziness to see all of this. I don't even know how they could get 22 fire engines into that area.

Thankfully, no one was injured, and everyone was able to exit out of the building safely.

Here are some pics after the fire:

This is what remains of the chapel. Notice there is no roof.

This is the gym.

I think this is a really cool picture. This is of the stained glass window that was at the front of the chapel. Obviously, the glass broke and you can see the steeple through the frame of the window. This picture just shows me how crazy this situation really was.

All in all, an experience I won't soon forget.

Yup! It's A Monday...

2009-03-09T10:13:00.000-04:00

For those of you who know me well, you know that I don't do mornings!!! Today was no exception. My early morning started off with my roomie knocking persistently on my door and softly calling my name. When I finally was able to come out of a deep hazy dream like fog, she asked me for a ride to school. She had overslept and missed her bus. (I think the oversleeping had much to do with daylight savings, the spring ahead gets to us all!) I hurry and change so that I can take her and try to not look longingly at my warm, soft bed that is calling to me to return and off we go.

I step outside and imagine my dismay! It is snowing, hard, wet snow that is coming down fast! UUGGGHHHH!!!!!!! You have got to be kidding me, yesterday it was sixty degrees and less than 24 hours later we have snow. Thankfully, it wasn't too thick and I didn't have to scrape it off my car.

I immediately turn on the defrost and seat warmers (thank you who ever came up with that invention!) and we head to one of my least fave streets in Boston, Commonwealth Avenue. Now, at this point I am still rubbing my eyes and trying to become concious. When screeech!!!!!!! I have to slam on brakes and just pray that I will not hit the huge tow truck that is headed right for us. I am bracing myself for impact as I am sliding on the snow (c'mon brakes, please engage!) and I just know that we are going to collide and this will be the end of my car as I know it, when we stop just inches from each other and avoid eminent destruction. Don't worry, I am fully awake now!

My roomie decided that she can still make another bus on time so I just need to drop her off at this one street corner on Comm Ave. I flip a U-ie drop her off and start heading back towards home, growing more and more excited over the thought of climbing back into bed. I go 2 blocks when my roomie calls me. It is spring break for BU and the shuttle she was going to catch wasn't running. So I flip another U-ie and pick her up.

Thankfully, there were no more close calls and the rest of our ride was uneventful. I drop her off and head home. Don't worry it is now 8:00, I have only been on the road since 6:45. (The school is only 5 miles away, but that's Boston for you!) By the time I come, home I actually don't get into my bed, instead I turn on the TV (music videos are on), lay down on the couch and promptly fall fast asleep. Yup! It's a Monday! Welcome to the week!

Where in the world is Mollie?

2009-02-17T12:06:00.000-05:00

Look closely, can you tell where I am?

Yes, I am at Costa Vida, but no, I am not anywhere in Utah. Can you believe it there is a Costa Vida in South Portland, Maine?!?! I was so excited to find it out and yes, it is the exact same as in Utah. Although there are tons of fun places to eat in Boston, I have yet been able to find much Mexican food. And I must admit, I miss my Friday ritual of pork nachos from Costa Vida. I don't think that I can make the 2 hour drive to Maine every Friday, but I love that I don't have to wait for trips back home to have one of my favorite foods.

While I was up in Maine, my roomie and I decided to check out some of the sights. We drove around the waterfront of South Portland, went to Fort Williams park, and explored the Head Light Lighthouse. Apparently, it is one of the most famous light houses in the world. It was a great way to spend part of President's Day weekend.

I am totally looking forward to more fun trips to Maine, especially as the weather gets warmer!

To Cut or Not to Cut

2009-02-02T10:01:00.001-05:00

I have been trying to grow my hair out for quite some time. I am just a few inches away from the length that I would like it to be. I really love long hair. The thing is, I think I like long hair on other people more than myself. Now don't get me wrong, I don't think I look bad with long hair, it's just that I never do it and I like changes with my hair. (Blame it on beauty school, I can't have a hair style for longer than six months.)

My roomies think that I should think more about my decision to cut my hair, my mom thinks why not cut it. If I don't like it, it's just hair and it will grow.

So, the verdict is.........

Before

After

Of course I cut it, as I said I can't have a hair style for longer than six months. At first, I will admit, I didn't like it. I was wondering if I made the right decision. I did, the trick to doing this hairstyle is to not do my hair! I tried straightening it, bad idea (especially because one side is longer than the other). I tried doing it really curly.I wasn't really a fan of either. Instead, I figured out the trick is just to put in some product, blow dry for 5 minutes, hairspray, and go! I love it and most of my friends out here love it to.

So if any of you are contemplating whether or not to change up your style, I say go for it. A little change can never hurt anyone.

MUST SEE: A Movie of Epic Proprotions!

2009-01-05T00:02:00.000-05:00

In high school there was Titanic. I remember that for seminary everyday for a month after the movie came out we would sing Nearer, My God to Thee. Don't worry that a group of girls would bawl through the entire hymn. I managed to avoid the drama by not seeing the movie. (Of course I have seen parts but never really got into the whole Titanic movement.)

Then a few years later came Pearl Harbor. My sister Megan loved it and went to see it with me. Sorry to say, but I HATED that movie. Could it have been more depressing? I liked the war story, but the whole romance thing didn't work for me. I like happy endings and I didn't like what happened to Josh Hartnett. Needless to say, I have only seen the movie once.

Well after years of waiting, I found my movie of epic proportions. Australia! I LOVED this movie. Now I have to admit I was very hesitant to go and see it. I had heard it was okay, but that it was super long. I tend to have a short attention span and any movie that goes over 90 minutes is a challenge for me. But I didn't really have anything to do and we needed to use our movie passes before they expired so I figured why not.

I am so happy that I went, this movie made in my top 5 fave movies of all time (along with Pillow Talk, The Italian Job, Sweet Home Alabama, and Batman Begins.) Hugh Jackman , the cutest little kid, tons of action, a little suspense, and tons of romance makes this a must see! I recommend that everyone go and see this!

(If you don't like, don't let me know. I don't really care what any one else thinks about it.)

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2008-12-26T22:03:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love Christmas! Bright lights, swiftly (not slowly) falling snow, gingerbread houses and hot chocolate, Christmas music (excluding Feliz Navidad and The Very Last Christmas I Gave You My Heart), and time spent with friends and family are some of the things that I love about the season. I was really afraid that we might not have a "White Christmas" and I barely got in the bright lights and gingerbread houses before Christmas Eve, but here are some pictures of the fun I have had this holiday season.

With my friends at Temple Square. (Though I have to admit, the lights were a little disappointing this year. Gold and orange are not my fave!)

Decorating gingerbread houses. For future reference for anyone, the kits from Costco are the best. This year I went with a different kit and had a slightly different/frustrating experience. As you can see Courtney's turned out the best (she had the Costco kit, which means her frosting hardened quickly, and her house wasn't broken in need of great repairs.)

One of my family's traditions is to get new pajamas on Christmas Eve.
Here is our family all together.

Here is one just of us girls. Aren't the PJ's so cute?!?

On Christmas Day, we had a lot of snow in Provo. Later that night we decided to go sledding behind our 4-wheeler in the church parking lot. It was so much fun. I can't wait to go again.
(I really hope it snows at least once more before I head back to Boston.)

Early New Year's Resolution

2008-12-15T01:39:00.000-05:00

A few weekends ago, I went with one of my friends to watch her little brother's band play at this little place in Provo. Now, I haven't been there in years and I was totally excited to go. I used to love going to Muse, because it is small and I love intimate concert settings with lesser known bands.

Well, anyway my friend and I walk in and after about five minutes she turns to me and says "We are so old!!!" Now I am sad to say this was just the first realization I had and that it was actually more positive than my second realization which was... I had let myself go.

I had always thought that I would be married and have at least 2 kids before I had "let myself go." Not true!! As I was surrounded by beautiful girls in there early 20's, I was reminded of how I used to be. Not too long ago I was somewhat less chubby, dressed in trendy clothes (with hot shoes), applied make-up flawlessly, and styled my hair. Those days have come and gone. I go for comfort over style, my hair is always pulled up in a pony tail, and make-up is only if I have time. Forget the trendy clothes, who can afford them! And what are accessories?

Needless to say, my experience at the Muse was less exciting than I hoped for. However; I did decide during the concert that I know what my New Year's resolution is. It is time for me to kick my butt into gear and start working out more often and take care of myself again. I still may not have money for trendy clothes (I have to save for retirement) and I may go for comfort over style (especially in the shoe department,) but I can still try a little bit harder to look cuter and figure out a new style that fits my lifestyle now. I am actually really excited and hopefully the next time I go to Muse I won't feel so old!! After all, I am only 28!

The music was great! The band members hot!!!
So all in all, not a complete waste of my night!

Viva Las Vegas

2008-12-13T01:12:00.000-05:00

I know that a lot of people don't care for Vegas, but I really like it. There is a ton of shopping, good food, warm weather, and the fountain at the Bellagio.

I could make it a full time job to sit and watch the fountain. I love hearing the music and watching the water rise and fall in all different designs. And in between the each display, I could people watch to my heart's content. Now, I know this is not everyone's idea of fun, but it is truly one of my very favorite things!

On our last night in Vegas my mom and I ventured out to go and see the fountain before we had to go home. It was surprisingly super cold and really windy, but we decided to brave the weather and began our walk to see our favorite site. We get there and are informed over the loud speaker that due to the high wind conditions the fountain will not be going off. I was so disappointed.

My mom and I decided to continue to walk a little bit further down the Strip for some hot chocolate on our way back to our hotel. On our way back we were passing the Bellagio and wouldn't you believe it, the fountain started going off.

The only problem was we were on the other side of Las Vegas Boulevard. However; when there is a will there is a way. My mom and I both made a mad dash across the six lanes of traffic and were able to see the rest of the fountain show.

Birthday Fun

2008-12-13T00:49:00.000-05:00

I can't believe another year has gone by. Life happens so fast! This year my birthday was really low key. I just hung out all day and then went for a late dinner to Red Robin so that Brady and Michelle could join us.

I got a really yummy desert as you can see, with plenty of spoons for us all to share.

But don't worry, Brady decided that it would be more fun to reach around Michelle to try and push my face in all of the whipped cream. Thank goodness, I have developed strong neck/head muscles and was able to withstand the full push. Even though it may not look like it, I remained rather clean with only the tip of my nose touching any of the desert.

(I hope Michelle knows what she got herself into.)

November Recap

2008-12-12T20:34:00.001-05:00

November was a busy month. I had a lot of changes happen in my life. The best of which was my brother getting married.

Aren't they cute?

I am so excited to have a sister again!

Lack of Pictures

2008-11-18T01:04:00.000-05:00

Some of you have may noticed that I am lacking personal pictures for some of my posts. This would be do to the fact that I have a terrible camera. I haven taken some pictures but unfortunately, they are so blurry that you can't even distinguish what you are looking at.

But lucky for me, my birthday and Christmas are coming up. So I thought I could help my family out by posting a list of things I want.

1. Digital Camera
2. Hairdryer (just get me the one like Mom's)

As everything I want is kind of expensive, I thought I would just list the two things that I want the most.

(If you have further questions about the make and model, just let me know. I have specifics picked out.)

What Have I Gotten Myself Into ???

2008-11-18T00:44:00.000-05:00

Just a month ago, I LOVED water. If I went out to eat, water was my drink of choice. Occasionally, I would treat myself to a Coke, not diet, but the original good, sugary Coke. That doesn't mean I didn't like Diet Coke, but generally in order to have a Diet Coke I would need some form of chocolate to go with it, usually peanut M&M's.

However; since I moved to Boston I have become addicted to Diet Coke, chocolate or no chocolate. Forget drinking water. I am not really sure how this even happened. I guess it was inevitable, after all it is the drink of choice for my mother and almost all of my friends.

Well, on Friday night I went out to dinner with some of my friends. I had a really hard day and so I felt completely justified in ordering a Diet Coke. I got about 3 refills during the course of the dinner as each of my friends also refilled their drinks (okay, we all got Diet Cokes, as I said, it was inevitable.) Imagine our dismay when we get the bill and discover we had to pay for each glass of Diet Coke. Apparently they don't understand the concept of free refills and our lovely server didn't see any reason to share this piece of information with us. Don't worry we only spent $24 dollars on Diet Coke!

Not Quite Legally Blonde

2008-11-02T21:33:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I went with a few friends to the "Legally, Blonde" The Musical. It was super fun and a great production. The music was pretty creative and I was surprised at how well they were able to follow the movie. I especially found it interesting to watch as I sort of made the move from LA to Boston, (I know it was in a round about way) and I didn't move for love or school. But I really did enjoy two songs " Chip on My Shoulder" and "Find My Way". Both of these songs reminded me that no matter how tough things may be in my life or whatever unexpected changes come my way I have the ability to make it because of who I am and because of those who support me.

Also, going to the theater reminded me of all of the great opportunities that I have had to enjoy the arts. I think enjoyment for ballet, musicals, operas, and the symphony was passed on to me from my grandmother. One of my favorite memories was going to the Nutcracker Ballet at the Capital Theatre every Christmas and eating life savers. I am so excited for the Christmas season and hope that I have the opportunity to see the Nutcracker and other productions.

Thriller, Scary Movies, & No Costumes

2008-11-02T20:43:00.000-05:00

My Halloween was super fun this year. On Thursday night, I went to the So You Think You Can Dance Show. It was so fun and filled my first need of Halloween. For the closing number they danced to "Thriller." Now the present Michael Jackson leaves much to be desired, but old school Michael is awesome and I love "Thriller." I love that they show the video all the time during October on MTV and Vh1. (By the way, I am super addicted to music videos. I could make a full time job out of watching them.) It was so great to see the top dancer in skeleton outfits dancing out to the song.

On Halloween night, my roommates, next door neighbor, and I went to a totally cool theater to watch classic Horror movies. It started at midnight and went until noon the next day. I only made it for the first two, but I had a great time. The first movie was "Prom Night" the original one. It was made in 1980 with Leslie Nielsen and Jamie Lee Curtis. It was absolutely hilarious. I laughed almost the whole time. Then we took a short break for a costume contest. I loved seeing everyone else's costumes and the fact that I didn't have to dress up! One of the weirdest costumes was a lady dressed as a firehydrant with a stuffed dog peeing on her. I don't where some people come up with these ideas!

It's 4:30 in the morning, don't expect perfection!

Don't Park In Front of a Driveway

2008-10-29T00:04:00.000-04:00

Church is a whole new experience here in Boston. I happen to belong to a great ward with an awesome bishop and great friendly people. Relief Society and Sunday School were good and Sacrament Meeting was awesome. I happen to belong in the ward with Jane Clayson Johnson (her husband is in the bishopric.) They both spoke and it was really inspiring and uplifting. It was so nice to see how different this ward functions compared to my last single's ward.

I was super excited because after church my roommates and I were going to join some friends up at Walden Pond. My roommate and I go to get in her car and we cannot find it anywhere. We walk up and down the cobblestone sidewalk way too many times in our high heels (which is not easy) and we have no idea where it can be. (You may be wondering why were parked on the street. Our church doesn't have a parking lot, so you have to park on the streets nearby.) Finally, we decided that either it was stolen or towed. At least she had her cell phone with her and she googled to find out what to do if your car gets towed in Cambridge. She started calling the towing companies and we found her car. We got a friend to take us to Pat's Towing and were finally able to get in to her car.

We didn't end up going to Walden but settled instead for going to Fresh Pond. It was beautiful and I had a great time looking at the changing leaves and rippling lake.

Lesson learned: Double check to make sure you didn't park in front of a driveway!

Creepy, Crawling Creatures & Critters

2008-10-28T23:52:00.000-04:00

This next story is not for the faint of heart! Okay, not really. I hate animals!!! I have learned to tolerate some dogs and cats in the past, but I really don't like wild animals. Our neighborhood is full of raccoons and skunks. Disgusting, I know. The bad thing is they aren't even scared of humans and they chase after you instead of you chasing after them. I didn't think things could get any worse on the animal front, but somehow they did.

One night, while I was happily lounging on my couch watching TV, I happened to see an animal run into my roommate's bedroom (right next to mine.) At first, I wasn't sure that I really saw what I thought I saw. But to be on the safe side, I hurried and shut my bedroom door and bathroom door. (I was also nice enough to shut the other girl's bedrooms doors as well.) I really do count my blessings that the little critter didn't run into my room!

I call my mom because I have to talk to someone and I am not equipped to take care of a rodent problem. My biggest fear at this point is where there is one, there is bound to be more. I can't believe that I have to take care of this problem now. I go to the store to buy mouse traps, but as I have never had to deal with this I am not sure what to buy. I buy the kit that has it all, sticky pads, snap traps, and even a live catch trap (which by the way, who would ever want to use that?)

I set out the traps and the next morning I awake to see a mouse still alive half attached to a stick trap. EEEWWWW!!!! What do I do now? I try and ignore it but I am afraid the mouse will chew off its legs and it is whining and so I know I have to take care of it. Once again, I call my mom. Of course she just laughs at me. She suggests just covering it with a large bowl so it won't get a way and to wait for another roommate to help me. There is absolutely no way I am covering it with a bowl, because then it will have mouse germs and I will never be able to use the bowl again. I finally get the dust pan and sweep it up onto it. The mouse is crying and squirming the whole time. I am trying not to squeal as well. I finally talk to the mouse to see if it will calm down. I bravely walk down the stairs and across the street and then fling it into the dumpster. Thankfully, we haven't seen any more mice!

And to think that I wanted a gerbil when I was in the third grade.

I decided to spare everyone and not post pictures of this traumatic event for both the mouse and myself.

Girls Night Out

2008-10-28T23:45:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately, because I am so particular about my room, it consumed most of the time I had with my mom. I was unable to show her some of my most favorite places and things in Boston. However; on Saturday night my roommate Tristan, my mom, and I ventured out to the North End for some great Italian food and some yummy deserts. It was really cold and we totally had to cross over this yucky fish gut street. Thankfully none of us fell! Which is a big deal, because I am such a clutz and am almost always guaranteed to fall in these situations.

It was a fun night to just get out and relax a little bit. I am not sure that my mom was able to see why I love Boston based on this experience but the next time she comes out we will live it up a little bit more.

Settling In

2008-10-28T23:25:00.000-04:00

I was so grateful to have my mom with me. She helped me so much with putting my room together. Now if you know me, you know that I have to live in very clean, organized, and put together places. My mom was very patient and helped me achieve that.

When I first moved in, I had purchased some of the furniture from the previous roommate including a bed, a wardrobe, and a desk. The mattress was okay, but the frame was terrible. I needed a new desk (it had to be bigger), and I needed to paint the wardrobe. IKEA, Target, and Home Depot became well known locations. (I think I can even get to most of them without a GPS.) It truly became an adventure to find a box springs mattress/frame, to transport the mattress on the top of my car, and to build several pieces of furniture.

By the time my mom left to go home, I was left with a beautiful room that I love living in. My favorite part is the quilt that she and I worked on together right before I came out to Boston. I know that I will love it and that it will keep me warm especially as it gets colder.

Arrived At Last

2008-10-28T23:16:00.000-04:00

Brighton, Massachusetts

I was so excited to be in Boston at last. Our last day of travel all I wanted to do was speed as fast as I could to get there. I couldn't wait to begin this chapter of my life. I looked forward to getting re-acquainted with old friends, meeting new people, and being out on my own again. I was so happy to be moving forward and taking advantage of an opportunity that had come my way.

Here are my top 5 impressions of Boston:
1. Crazy driving... Anything goes and no one follows any rules.
2. It is sooo cold! I am going to freeze, good thing I had bought a ton of coats.
3. I have never seen so many trees in my life.
4. I love the city and know that Boston Public Library will be my new favorite place.
5. Seafood is a big deal. If you want to go to the North End, expect to smell and walk in fish guts!

Where It All Began

2008-10-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Palmyra, New York

I couldn't visit Nauvoo and Kirtland on this trip without also stopping at Palmyra. It is a small, quaint town in New York. I thought it was beautiful and very, very peaceful. My mom and I stopped at the Visitor's center, drove up to Hill Cumorah, and of course visited the Sacred Grove. The Sacred Grove was totally different than I had expected. It was so much larger than I had thought. I was completely amazed at the stillness that I felt there. Even though it had begun to rain, I have never been in a place where everything seemed so reverent. I was really happy that we stopped in Palmyra had the opportunity to be at the location where such an important event had taken place.

The Falls

2008-10-28T22:08:00.001-04:00

Niagara Falls

My mom and I woke up bright and early to go see the sights at the Falls. We took a tour on the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and watched a movie highlighting the history and legends of the Falls. It was absolutely gorgeous and I would love to go back and see them again.

Raining Cats and Dogs

2008-10-28T21:59:00.001-04:00

Niagara Falls

This was the place that I was most looking forward to. I couldn't wait to see the Falls and I was so excited. It was absolutely beautiful as we pulled and I wanted to go exploring. I had found a restaurant called "The Top of the Falls" and I thought it would be perfect to see the sights. We checked into the hotel and immediately set off with directions from the front desk for this restaurant. It was just starting to sprinkle but my mom and I decided it wouldn't be to bad and it should only take about 15 minutes to walk to the restaurant. After walking for about 30 minutes we still hadn't reached the restaurant. By this time it was pouring, I was wet and cold and starving. My mom asked a tourist close by if we were near the restaurant. She didn't even think that there was a restaurant on that side of the Falls. I am ready to turn around but my mom goes inside and asks a police officer where the restaurant is. He gives us directions and we continue on our way.

By the time we get to the building we discover that it is closed for the season! I was not so happy. We begin our journey back to the hotel so that I can change and we go to the Hard Rock Cafe for some comfort food, "Mac & Cheese" my fave!!!!

Church History Continued...

2008-10-28T21:44:00.001-04:00

Kirtland, Ohio

My mom and I had a great time in Kirtland visiting the N.K. Whitney store and the John Johnson farm. It was a little cold and I was glad that we were inside homes and stores for most of the time. I really enjoyed the Visitor's Center and was grateful for the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of what Joseph Smith and the early Saints went through.

Chicago Pizza

2008-10-28T21:40:00.000-04:00

Chicago, Illinois

I was so excited for this stop on our trip. If only I had known what was in store. My mom and I drove in around 7:30 that night. I was just happy we had got there in one piece. Chicago driving can be a little challenging. We checked into our hotel room and it was a real winner! It is one of those places that you don't take of your shoes because you are afraid to touch the carpet and of course the chair and bed are not any better. The room had two awesome features. One was a peep hole just above the bed for someone in the next room to spy on us. I promptly filled it with toilet paper to prevent anything I didn't want seen. The second feature was the yellow toilet. Now, I have never seen a yellow toilet but let me tell you it is so deceiving. You really can't tell if the person before you flushed or not until you determine if any toilet paper was used. It really threw me off. My mom was not happy with our room and I thought that maybe if we went and ate she might feel better about things.

We decide to take a taxi to a pizza place that my friend Kaylyn HIGHLY recommended as having the best pizza ever. I handed the printed directions I had googled earlier to the taxi driver and we began our journey. Don't worry that we end up in a Chicago suburb at this "hole in the wall" pizza place where we ordered a slice of pizza that had to be re-warmed. And to make matters even worse, we didn't have a ride back to our yucky hotel. At least, I had thought to ask our taxi driver for a card so that I could call the cab company to come and pick us up, but we were so out of the way it took them almost an hour to come and pick us up. Obviously my friend had given my the wrong name of the pizza place. (I am not trying to place blame on her, but she really did tell me the wrong name.) All I could to was laugh but my mom was not in a laughing mood. We had just spent $50 (cab ride included) for some warmed up disgusting pizza.

The next day was a little better, we stopped at Millennial Park, the John Hancock Building, and ate at the Cheesecake Factory. Needless to say, Chicago fell a little short of my expectations and I don't think that my mom will ever be returning there.

My Introduction to Church History

2008-10-28T21:39:00.000-04:00

Nauvoo, Illinois

This day was the roughest of our travels. We spend the entire day in the car driving from Laramie to Nauvoo. It could have been really painful but my mom and I had a great time listening to music and of course seeing some interesting people on the road. In fact, a semi driver got very angry with my mom (she wasn't driving fast enough for him) and he would roll down his window and his dog would hang out his head and bark at us. It happened two or three times and I have to admit we were a little worried about what he might do to us. Eventually, we passed him again and I waved and smiled and then he decided he would be nice and leave us alone. Whew! I sure was happy I decied to smile instead of doing another gesture.

Another sight that my mom and I got thought was hilarious was a car with this saying painted on his rearview window "Honk if You Are Horny!" We flew past him, but I sure wish my mom would have honked. I would have loved to see what the young kid driving the car would have done.

I have learned that I never want to live in Nebraska ever!!! It was so boring and flat. I was very happy to have finally arrived at Nauvoo later that night.

We spent a morning in Nauvoo visiting the temple, the blacksmith shop, the bakery, and the brick house. I had a lot of fun and I thought that Nauvoo was a beautiful place. We then traveled down to Carthage Jail. The tour was interesting and I loved being able to experience some of our church history.

1st Stop

2008-10-28T21:38:00.000-04:00

Laramie, Wyoming

Our first leg of the journey ended in Laramie. I really wanted to stop there, not because I am a Wyoming Cowboys fan (and I could have actually gone to a game that day), but because I wanted to spend time with some of my very favorite people, my cousin Melissa and her husband Josh. We had an awesome time going out to dinner and hanging out.

The Journey Begins

2008-10-28T20:51:00.000-04:00

I loaded up my car and headed across the country for Boston with my mom at the end of September. We decided to take the whole week and stop a few places along the way before arriving at my new home. Unfortunately, one of my misadventures ended up being that we lost the pictures we had taken for the first three days of the trip (due to some memory card malfunction). Don't worry, I will still relate and share some of my experiences but the pictures were great.

Just a little background... I have been in Utah for the past year and half and was ready for a change. I have an awesome job with Symantec, and had the opportunity to relocate to any location (within the US) of my choice. Although I love the sunshine and warm weather in Southern California, I figured I had already been there and done that and I was ready for something totally new and different. Ever since I left California I had thought about Boston. I had been to Boston twice before and absolutely loved it and jumped at the chance to move out here.

My Formal Introduction to the World of Blogging

2008-10-28T20:44:00.000-04:00

So I have finally decided to join the blogging community. A few of my friends and family have requested that I start a blog as they want to hear all about my experiences in Boston. I have been really hesitant to start, as generally my life is pretty boring and predictable, and I am afraid I won't have anything to tell! But everyonce in a while, I do have a few funny misadventures and so hopefully I will have something to write about and share with all of you.