tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66350323866986193182024-03-21T02:30:06.934-06:00All the World's a StageKMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-79883503198209880552010-12-25T01:38:00.004-07:002010-12-25T09:54:25.161-07:00Seeing the Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.heymiller.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/star-near-bethlehem-israel2.jpg" width="238" /></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I awoke to my youngest sister's excited squeals. I groaned and rolled over, trying to go back to sleep. "Merry Christmas Eve, Kate!" she kept saying as she jumped up and down on my bed. I looked up at the blinding light coming in through my window and coved my head. It was too early...alright it was 9:30...but still, I was tired, and I lingered in my bed trying to hold on to my last dream.</span></div><div><br />
</div><div>Eventually I gave up going back to sleep and joined the rest of my family in the kitchen. She kept insisting it was time to open presents, and my mom kindly took her aside and explained that presents weren't opened until Christmas day. Liz still kept trying to get her way, but mom wasn't having it. There was talk of getting a few last minute items and dropping off gifts for friends of the family. I had a sour expression on my face as I skimmed the morning paper. "What are you doing today, Kate?" my father asked. I gazed back and glumly replied, "I'm working." I tried to think of a million excuses not to go in to work, but eventually, my responsible half won.</div><div><br />
</div><div>As I got ready for work, Mom could sense my frustration and she took me aside. She gently told me that I could chose to be happy, and I could decided to do my best to serve people today. I brushed off the thought as sleepiness and the impending afternoon weighed heavily on my mind. It was December 24th, and I wanted to spend it at home with my family who I rarely got to see anymore--since I'd gone away to school.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Nonetheless, I made it to work with not a moment to spare...literally. Every single check stand was open. I had never seen that, and I sighed as I went to clock in. The day danced by slowly as we dealt with the many shoppers looking for last minute gifts. Most of them were upset when they found out that we were sold out of almost every "hot ticket" item. "Serves them right for waiting until the day before Christmas," snickered a few of my co-workers. As I pushed a particularly heavy flat bed of merchandise, I kept feeling sorry for myself. Several minutes later, a guest passed by me and wished me a very "Merry Christmas." I stopped for a second and appreciated the greeting, but then got back to work as the store was literally a mad house. It was so busy that I kept forgetting that it was Christmas Eve until I saw someone wearing a Santa hat or carrying a million rolls of wrapping paper down my freshly organized aisles-- knocking over all of my hard work.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Finally the store closed, and we were all anxious to get home. Almost everyone was impatient and tired of looking at the many aisles that were littered with toys and wrapping paper. We got off right around 8pm. I got in my car, and was delighted to hear the Christmas music on the radio, and I sang along to the many new age Christmas songs, until "The First Noel" came on the radio and reminded me how many times I'd thought about 'me' today.</div><div><br />
</div><div>It sunk in.</div><div><br />
</div><div>All day in a store had made me think of the materialism of Christmas-- and the "me, me, me" mentality it can bring upon us--leaving us feeling empty and low. For the first time all day, I smiled as I thought of the true reason for the season. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I started to notice all of the lovely lights on homes and Christmas trees as I drove into my neighborhood. I wondered why people put lights on their homes and trees. That was easy; It could symbolize the Light of Christ-- or perhaps the star that led the wise men and the shepherds to Bethlehem on that holy Christmas eve so many years ago. Then something that I'd never thought about occured to me. If the lights represented the star that led those who wanted to come unto Christ in Bethlahem, by putting lights on our trees and homes, we are in a sense saying, "Christ is within." He lives within our homes and our hearts if we'll but accept him. More and more people think about the gifts, the tree, and all the decor rather than what we should be remembering-- We wouldn't be anything without the greatest Christmas gift of all--God's son Jesus Christ. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.loisvirginiababb.com/TheChristmasPig/images/15_star_shining_on_baby_Jesus.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://www.loisvirginiababb.com/TheChristmasPig/images/15_star_shining_on_baby_Jesus.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i<a href="http://www.loisvirginiababb.com/TheChristmasPig/images/15_star_shining_on_baby_Jesus.gif">mage by</a></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-50906653689415611812010-06-09T19:27:00.000-06:002010-06-09T19:27:40.015-06:00Upside Down...<h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="UIStory_Message">I work at Target, and one of the things that I do is cashiering. The other day, I was ringing a lady up, and I saw that she had the new Jack Johnson CD. I told her how much I liked him, and then I asked if if she was a fan. I expected her to say, no, it's for my grandson or something like that... Instead, she smiled and said "Actually, he's my nephew." </span></h3><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="UIStory_Message"><br />
</span></h3><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="UIStory_Message">WOW. </span></h3><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="UIStory_Message"><br />
</span></h3><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="UIStory_Message">Mind blown.<br />
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Love this song. Curious George reminds me of my little sister, Lizzie. :)</span></h3><div><span class="UIStory_Message"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNlmn7vbXBQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNlmn7vbXBQ</a></span></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-49725194700070653382010-06-02T19:20:00.000-06:002010-06-09T19:20:54.989-06:00Love and Marriage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
The last week of May, I got to go to Kentucky for a wedding. Alex's older brother Kyle, was getting married. It was also my first time meeting Alex's family. They were so much fun! Stuart with his "flirty face" and Hilary catching the bouquet and then tossing it to me. Alex and his mom dancing was fun, and I heard that his dad does a pretty mean air guitar. ;) What a fun family!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0ioicWqw4CN44MUbu2onkZOL5nngieMZqEzdUDgBBoSjRT3MD9S0KvOpmjl7xQPX7c83L7REOIPXw9EWvqbgE0cdA-ExO2HAnjjHdgAWnwovYYu-N_6IKGBMOztY5vEiOkJcfi6F3jQ/s1600/IMG_4771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0ioicWqw4CN44MUbu2onkZOL5nngieMZqEzdUDgBBoSjRT3MD9S0KvOpmjl7xQPX7c83L7REOIPXw9EWvqbgE0cdA-ExO2HAnjjHdgAWnwovYYu-N_6IKGBMOztY5vEiOkJcfi6F3jQ/s320/IMG_4771.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5ckWf-lYroevxUz09UFdVJiHI3yPYMq8gfxYztSKZqvwdSO06xurKy2okUGQACCGKkmqL2RJRIc0A_rFUMjsZ09BpTBh8nq1DnNGyEanyKIqJNPT6Y3l1oV9Kwtum_5OXPCs0mzQffE/s1600/IMG_4777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5ckWf-lYroevxUz09UFdVJiHI3yPYMq8gfxYztSKZqvwdSO06xurKy2okUGQACCGKkmqL2RJRIc0A_rFUMjsZ09BpTBh8nq1DnNGyEanyKIqJNPT6Y3l1oV9Kwtum_5OXPCs0mzQffE/s320/IMG_4777.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUt0TyhPVAFR8win1wLiFhjtKauqbTo59ravmCPV2plF8gaYiMMNH3n7O1l82euMFTyXE8rbPTbg5N_rfI7jOl2W74jBz2170NLj2OXamgbVq5jiytOdHK3gHBAQW4QXFs2SX7CjztW2s/s1600/IMG_4788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUt0TyhPVAFR8win1wLiFhjtKauqbTo59ravmCPV2plF8gaYiMMNH3n7O1l82euMFTyXE8rbPTbg5N_rfI7jOl2W74jBz2170NLj2OXamgbVq5jiytOdHK3gHBAQW4QXFs2SX7CjztW2s/s320/IMG_4788.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIFsB5Qe7D_uOnFqmoFHnikL5DbpRhp_5IQwHYGjEHpzEkVQmEZLeTeHDfaR_rojVhyphenhyphenIf7tgecoMQXMrONtxTsPiDTzcSfaAnfDp2skPMkYTSCyBNjdnQnGHmhn2NhwpRKjwiKMF4ank/s1600/31863_1422933664275_1560725326_1017061_4479083_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpIFsB5Qe7D_uOnFqmoFHnikL5DbpRhp_5IQwHYGjEHpzEkVQmEZLeTeHDfaR_rojVhyphenhyphenIf7tgecoMQXMrONtxTsPiDTzcSfaAnfDp2skPMkYTSCyBNjdnQnGHmhn2NhwpRKjwiKMF4ank/s320/31863_1422933664275_1560725326_1017061_4479083_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSE-glYgekO9EjzSpwn0pzfBqo1eJG4aBVSjm1YR9C47hSDhviXQw5r_j76MIX03H0Udsa_oK5DrpSWjsU1A_D6yFuCNI-JBpkl351F8kWNdrzrEHioq3gL7HJoanq7vW-S0q9PAIeYic/s1600/IMG_4746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSE-glYgekO9EjzSpwn0pzfBqo1eJG4aBVSjm1YR9C47hSDhviXQw5r_j76MIX03H0Udsa_oK5DrpSWjsU1A_D6yFuCNI-JBpkl351F8kWNdrzrEHioq3gL7HJoanq7vW-S0q9PAIeYic/s320/IMG_4746.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-29642407422860363142010-05-13T23:33:00.001-06:002010-05-13T23:33:35.666-06:00We've got More Bounce in California...After battling ice, snow, and finals, I am finally back home in Modesto! <br />
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It's nice to be able to wear short sleeve shirts again... and see the sun for that matter! Yay for sunny California!<br />
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I've mostly been helping my family with their many projects and helping to care for my little sisters.<br />
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Alex visited last weekend and met the family. :) That was a really neat experience to have him here. He was very sweet and made a great impression. <br />
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Well, now it's back to work!KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-50123937551197253952010-02-26T03:32:00.005-07:002010-02-26T04:33:21.869-07:00The Pursuit of Happiness<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 13px;"></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 13px;"><blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">“We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."</span></blockquote></blockquote></span></span></span></blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The last few weeks I've been on a constant quest to make myself truly happy. I generally try to be a happy and optimistic person... but I also know life isn't perfect. I've tried all kinds of things, and recently, I always feel like there's a little something missing. However, for the longest time, I couldn't put my finger on what it was.</span><br />
<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I started off by learning more about myself... Such as my likes and dislikes. I decided to make a list of silly little things that make me happy:</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Kiwi Strawberry Snapple</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Blue Raspberry Jolly Ranchers </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Hugs</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Starburst Jelly Beans</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pictures of fun memories</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Colorful sharpies</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Minty gum</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My HOT PINK laptop</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Zupa's sandwiches</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A nice text message</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Sweat pants</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Writing (blogs, news, etc.)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Meeting new people</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Dancing around for no reason</span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Smiles from strangers<br />
Sunshine and warm weather<br />
Surprises<br />
Good songs on the radio<br />
Hot chocolate<br />
A good book<br />
Chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream<br />
Cookie dough<br />
"Miss Me" jeans<br />
My senior sweatshirt<br />
"10 Things I Hate About You"<br />
Cinnamon sugar or blueberry bagels<br />
A song with clever lyrics<br />
"My Life is Average"<br />
Goldfish<br />
Orange Juice<br />
My 3 glow fish<br />
Ted (my childhood teddy bear)<br />
Belting the lyrics to a favorite musical </span><br />
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It was great to realize things that I like and that will make me momentarily happy. That got me thinking though... what about when I'm not happy? How do I make myself happy then?</span><br />
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</span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Here are a few simple things to keep in mind:</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><i><br />
</i> </span> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">You can't change a lot of things...</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> so build a bridge and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">get over it!</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> It's easier said than done (believe me, I know), but it's a lot healthier than holding on to a lot of unhappiness and negativity.</span><br />
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</span> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Negativity...</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> is unattractive and unbecoming. Stay clear of it.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Mind your manners</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">... A lot of times if we're having a bad day or something doesn't go the way we planned we take it out on people around us. This can make you look rude, but more importantly, it can ruin someone else's day. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Take a deep breath... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Don't confront someone when you're angry or upset. Wait to cool off. Nine times out of ten, once you're calmed down, you'll regret the things you said and did while you were angry.</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The Golden Rule... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Sometimes we like to gossip or talk about others behind their backs... especially if we don't like someone or if we feel like we've been wronged. We're all guilty of this, but it doesn't make it right. If someone starts it, diffuse it by saying something nice about the person that is being talked about. Don't you hope someone would be courteous enough to do the same for you?</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Mind your own bees wax.... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">You don't need to go looking for a reason to be angry or gossipy.</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Learn from others' mistakes... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Remember that time someone did or said something that tore your heart in two? Don't do it to someone else in the future; That's called being a hypocrite. We go through a lot of things so that we can be prepared to serve others in the future. Don't make the same mistakes as those who hurt you.</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Give the benefit of the doubt... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A lot of times there are people around us who do things that hurt our feelings. However, half the time, they aren't thinking, and years down the road you won't care anyway.<br />
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Staying happy, even when it's hard, and remembering the little things that keep us happy are both essential. However, there is one sure way of being truly happy, and I was slightly embarrassed that I hadn't thought of it before.<br />
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It's so simple that it's sometimes easy to forget...</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">It's not all about me... </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">After some fasting and praying a few Sundays ago, I came to several conclusions about what I was missing. I was focusing on what made </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">me </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">happy...what made </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">me </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">feel good... what made </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">me </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">look good... I'd forgotten what I had been counciled by a wise friend to do... to go forth with great love and joy in my soul... to serve others.<br />
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The key to happiness isn't about my favorite flavor of jolly rancher or if the sun is shining today. Though those are nice things, there's is so much more to it. It's about how I used my day. It needs to be about blessing the lives of others. The thing that was missing was service.<br />
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In </span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Matthew 10:39 it says: "He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it."</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large; line-height: 16px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 16px;"></span></span>These videos are from the "Mormon Messages" YouTube site, and they are great reminders of what we need to be doing.<br />
<object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wdmy7mbSUEo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wdmy7mbSUEo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 16px;">I've found that my quest is ongoing and that I will seek many things throughout my life. However, I feel blessed with the knowledge that true happiness can only come through the Gospel of Jesus Christ and by following his council:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: normal;"><b></b></span></span></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b></b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><blockquote style="display: inline !important;"><blockquote><blockquote style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">"As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6635032386698619318" name="10"></a> If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6635032386698619318" name="11"></a> These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=6635032386698619318" name="12"></a> This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.</span></span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">" -John 15:9-12</span></span></span></span></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></b></span></span></span> <br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VUuexH-3dBo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VUuexH-3dBo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I don't know about you, but starting tomorrow I'm going to "wake up, and do something more." :)</span></span></b></span></span></span>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-2785120393429465032010-02-19T02:16:00.000-07:002010-02-19T02:16:49.790-07:00Sophomore Year-- Video Blog!<div><object height="322" width="512"><param name="movie" value="http://d.yimg.com/static.video.yahoo.com/yep/YV_YEP.swf?ver=2.2.46" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="AllowScriptAccess" VALUE="always" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000" /><param name="flashVars" value="id=18223803&vid=7008213&lang=en-us&intl=us&thumbUrl=http%3A//l.yimg.com/a/p/i/bcst/videosearch/13374/102568117.jpeg&embed=1" /><embed src="http://d.yimg.com/static.video.yahoo.com/yep/YV_YEP.swf?ver=2.2.46" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512" height="322" allowFullScreen="true" AllowScriptAccess="always" bgcolor="#000000" flashVars="id=18223803&vid=7008213&lang=en-us&intl=us&thumbUrl=http%3A//l.yimg.com/a/p/i/bcst/videosearch/13374/102568117.jpeg&embed=1" ></embed></object><br />
<a href="http://video.yahoo.com/watch/7008213/18223803">Sophomore Year; So far so good!!</a> @ <a href="http://video.yahoo.com/">Yahoo! Video</a></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-3315558812351552772010-01-01T00:01:00.005-07:002010-01-01T00:05:41.822-07:00Bring it on 2010!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeLsuGZH7YPnRF3aZKdyWzCLXvQ2sAriV6zKYY3vIO_GKmtqxsE9ZIvQ6j6VaiGwMbTrXN54RzO5gEX3AsDRVpeqaY8z50DjewHftVDeldSSq6dulMNXemKF06VzlTlJ2cv9CCoVI-oI/s1600-h/IMG_3993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdeLsuGZH7YPnRF3aZKdyWzCLXvQ2sAriV6zKYY3vIO_GKmtqxsE9ZIvQ6j6VaiGwMbTrXN54RzO5gEX3AsDRVpeqaY8z50DjewHftVDeldSSq6dulMNXemKF06VzlTlJ2cv9CCoVI-oI/s400/IMG_3993.JPG" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Let us </span><b><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">relish</span></span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> life as we </span><span style="color: blue;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">live</span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> it, find </span><span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">joy in the journey</span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">, and </span><span style="color: lime;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">share our love</span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> with </span><span style="color: orange;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">friends</span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> and </span><b><span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">family.</span></span></b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></span><br />
<div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">-Thomas S. Monson</span></span></span><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>The new year is seen a shining opportunity to refresh the page, turn over a new leaf, to start a new chapter in your life. It is customary on New Year's Eve to reflect on the previous year and to make any improvements. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Since I was about fourteen, I have made a list of resolutions, and I carefully post each list on the bulletin board in my bedroom. A small stack has accumulated over the years. This year, I decided to reflect on the last several years rather than just 2009. Several examples of past resolutions include: "Be on time to everything (FYI Seminary.)" "Be the kind of friend/companion I want to have." "Try new things." "Delete my myspace." "Listen and learn more from Mom and Dad."</b></span><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>The idea of a fresh start and 5-10 new goals seems quite exciting at first. However, a slap from a sibling and one alarm clock malfunction later, and those resolutions are going, going, and gone. </b></span><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Sure, you'll accomplish maybe 2-3 of the list, but what about the other 7-8? Aren't they just as important? Is there a surefire way to try and knock out 9-10 of your resolutions? </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Where there is a will, there is a way! This year, I made my usual list of ten resolutions. However, I am not going to try and tackle them all at once. Each is a stepping stone to one large goal or motto that I want to keep. One of my favorite quotes is one by the Prophet Thomas S. Monson, and it reads: </b></span><br />
</div><blockquote><span style="color: magenta;">"Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family."</span><br />
</blockquote><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>This simple quote embodies all that I wish to accomplish this year. With joy, love, and an optimistic outlook, who is there to stop me? NO ONE! </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>BRING IT ON 2010!!</b></span><br />
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</div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-26462095912877833682009-12-09T23:45:00.001-07:002009-12-10T09:59:19.410-07:00Welcome to Finals Week<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">I just keep waiting for the elephants to show up...</span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">The Harold B. Lee library at BYU is a circus tonight... and I mean that quite literally.</span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Friday will mark our first "reading day" before finals. </span></span><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">I can just smell the stress and desperation hanging heavily in the air. </span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Something is different.</span></span></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Tables are full.</span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">No light music greets my ears as I sit on the second floor in the history section.</span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">The regularly hoppin' periodicals section which is known as a social haven is silent.</span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">This is a bit freaky... </span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Just when I thought all hope was lost, the circus rolled into town.</span></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><b>I saw the monkeys- </b>I was met with freshmen running around in Santa hats... dropping pens then making farting noises.</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Tide rope walkers-</b>Next, I felt like I was surrounded by the fifty million engaged couples that push their chairs together and attempt to cuddle. Look, I see a sign next to them! It reads: "Please don't feed the engaged couples, they will bite...or hold your hand." Man, I don't know what's worse... </span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Here are the tigers-</b>Then note to my left the married Asian couple that fights in Chinese. The wife slaps her husband several times as he tries to move her computer. They then proceed to storm angrily in and out of the library.... over and over. Get over it people!</span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">I'm in a quiet zone, and I keep busting up... probably embarrassing my boyfriend. Everyone turns their eyes to give me annoyed looks. I cover my laugh with a cough...</span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">It's not my fault! I guess they don't know we're in the middle of a circus...</span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">As my boyfriend and I were leaving he put on his HUGE coat. With me being a California... and it being 5 degrees outside... I put on my first two jackets. I then put my HUGE jacket on.I was so chubby, Chad had to put my backpack on me. Then we left....laughing.... </span></span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 10.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 3.0pt; margin-right: 3.0pt; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">And there you have it folks, the finale... <b>the elephants.</b> :) </span></span><br />
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</div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-50986982075506250862009-10-04T23:13:00.000-06:002009-10-05T00:02:13.413-06:00Learning Life LessonsIn the past week, I have been looking for something meaningful to blog about. Something that has come up with several of my close friends is something that I myself went through last year. It was something I did not really address publicly, and I do not wish to do so at the present time. However, looking back over what seemed to be one of the gloomiest times of my life, I gained several valuable messages. One of them was a message that the most important thing to do in every bad situation is to take a step back and to see what you can learn.<br /><br />Sometimes our closest friends are the ones that hurt us the most. They have the most power over us of any of our other friends. Letting someone in is hard to do. Watching them run out is even harder. However, when a bad situation arises, we need to learn from it. Pick ourselves back up and try to stand; Even when all you want to do is fall back to the floor. Let the wound heal, and meet other people. Most importantly, <span style="font-style: italic;">let it go</span>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Forgive the wrong.</span> Someday, when the time is right, they'll remember what they did. Maybe you'll be friends again... maybe not. Either way, you get what you take from it. So, take away a lesson in life and a learning experience.<br /><p class="p_self pic_padding">In order to do this, maybe it's just time to pray about it. The Holy Spirit is the way to gain closure. The Spirit can give you closure when you are in your darkest hour.<br /></p><p class="p_self pic_padding">He's a great friend.</p><p class="p_self pic_padding">Though these experiences are hard, and it seems like you might not ever get over them you will. These experiences make us who we are and shape our personalities. They give you gifts. Gifts range from compassion, empathy, knowledge, a listening ear, maturity, charity, and many others. Everyone gains unique insights and gifts.<br /></p><p class="p_self pic_padding">So, if you're having a hard time, pray for strength and look for the silver linings. There's <span style="font-style: italic;">always</span> at least one.<br /></p>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-15873656832043910842009-09-11T20:50:00.000-06:002009-09-11T20:54:48.544-06:00Party at our pad in Provo...So, most people think the end of summer is a sad time. Not for us! BYU is the most amazing university in the world! Three weeks ago, I had the opportunity to move into my new apartment with five other amazing BYU students: Sarah Cluff, Elise Seniki, Susie Ingoldsby, Melissa Calkins, Sarah Duke, and me!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtql6QgYlsFmCU54M3ocoOaWESCDo2ISH1zi7SdomNn8BKJ-NUWjO_jkCxUhx8eS2ukJcDfZD4CxIpURwVB5BBYMhqzqXDI54XQY7BJyroJKv4p-MQ1r-Q6vp4sX9xE36TaFrRbKKFsHA/s1600-h/IMG_3243.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtql6QgYlsFmCU54M3ocoOaWESCDo2ISH1zi7SdomNn8BKJ-NUWjO_jkCxUhx8eS2ukJcDfZD4CxIpURwVB5BBYMhqzqXDI54XQY7BJyroJKv4p-MQ1r-Q6vp4sX9xE36TaFrRbKKFsHA/s320/IMG_3243.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380408706580895986" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LG0POF6p6CY-ia2J6ssVI0pNAAi9utPC62Yg0WguA9dcS3A9TKtj9cnsTtfHa8xDUKuuBQjZ8byMm7KYRs2N9ZTFA5SGtm8AA1eHppHGol9aHaV4ipWIcPtYrrrXYZCKkMA7UonNdqk/s1600-h/IMG_3250.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1LG0POF6p6CY-ia2J6ssVI0pNAAi9utPC62Yg0WguA9dcS3A9TKtj9cnsTtfHa8xDUKuuBQjZ8byMm7KYRs2N9ZTFA5SGtm8AA1eHppHGol9aHaV4ipWIcPtYrrrXYZCKkMA7UonNdqk/s320/IMG_3250.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380408697623626370" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRCRAb-YbGztLJuwCpUQClmZTcNxd7bFCyD_4F4DW3eXidMxMQwxHKnvC6qMekA8-BsiLcNZ7XtVROhWU8x6xJxpnRkO4lJtYYzHAL4uKoDP5Rj5BGlrfn-UEulAzb1OSCnBUossFdjM/s1600-h/10528_532942502606_81505041_31577495_5363089_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRCRAb-YbGztLJuwCpUQClmZTcNxd7bFCyD_4F4DW3eXidMxMQwxHKnvC6qMekA8-BsiLcNZ7XtVROhWU8x6xJxpnRkO4lJtYYzHAL4uKoDP5Rj5BGlrfn-UEulAzb1OSCnBUossFdjM/s320/10528_532942502606_81505041_31577495_5363089_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380408690392239634" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eLP8VwA0B_uBde-tC-LwgYZGExjs3yO4YRodmihkj-Z34GqPVylS0M45tLvyHuziqtiOXa1Ky-rPeNtCGNqqzw_xli2xtEqISWUTcEObNY8TBX5PpO6862uZMHpZXv-9zh1DEz0_eGg/s1600-h/10528_532942492626_81505041_31577493_3018487_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eLP8VwA0B_uBde-tC-LwgYZGExjs3yO4YRodmihkj-Z34GqPVylS0M45tLvyHuziqtiOXa1Ky-rPeNtCGNqqzw_xli2xtEqISWUTcEObNY8TBX5PpO6862uZMHpZXv-9zh1DEz0_eGg/s320/10528_532942492626_81505041_31577493_3018487_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380408680795522482" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE97rUhoKjP5rVsQzFEEu11U3tNJOA4l8wd09lOAdTAQp2cDRB8dASRIFdEkNMUcA50HHBS8fOY0zNQmql1DLgO59NyCW2zXhHHsDXieMFRtb29VhMlXpWBJZ_c86oH5hZ8KwdbFSeYcI/s1600-h/10528_532942472666_81505041_31577489_7401915_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE97rUhoKjP5rVsQzFEEu11U3tNJOA4l8wd09lOAdTAQp2cDRB8dASRIFdEkNMUcA50HHBS8fOY0zNQmql1DLgO59NyCW2zXhHHsDXieMFRtb29VhMlXpWBJZ_c86oH5hZ8KwdbFSeYcI/s320/10528_532942472666_81505041_31577489_7401915_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380408678505851634" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-19583406042445843652009-09-11T20:04:00.000-06:002009-09-11T20:49:02.071-06:00A picture's worth a thousand words<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;color:#006600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal; "><div>So, most of my summer consisted of working. However, I did have a few fun moments. A picture is worth a thousand words. So, here are some highlights from summer 2009. :)</div><div><br /></div><div></div></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#006600;">KNIGHT'S FERRY WITH HYRUM</span></span></b></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qSpgKXRGmegVjhf5Xq1lkBydD3mJfN67qoHwvSkfbSgBRHfDaUKjJkZaJoCuaE4gUYBH__yZ6DtnQwbhVyIAmw3iwo9qb6RSGm5gwCI0tI61U5bmLEJCYGfsc7f9jbahGqR6yqctZRI/s1600-h/IMG_4119.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qSpgKXRGmegVjhf5Xq1lkBydD3mJfN67qoHwvSkfbSgBRHfDaUKjJkZaJoCuaE4gUYBH__yZ6DtnQwbhVyIAmw3iwo9qb6RSGm5gwCI0tI61U5bmLEJCYGfsc7f9jbahGqR6yqctZRI/s320/IMG_4119.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380407102533279682" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglm5k81FSMCZSxfJaL2rl_EISVJ7HTIX31AwBVN3dGbv40qdjYMWhF0mDJa9iRi8aKYYowiSMOTms1y75k6CV-XbQz_K3lRhU_9lv_bNhIcKderx3bSCfj0sw57W3KZVRZPRZWpymjb64/s1600-h/IMG_4128.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglm5k81FSMCZSxfJaL2rl_EISVJ7HTIX31AwBVN3dGbv40qdjYMWhF0mDJa9iRi8aKYYowiSMOTms1y75k6CV-XbQz_K3lRhU_9lv_bNhIcKderx3bSCfj0sw57W3KZVRZPRZWpymjb64/s320/IMG_4128.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380407096251880066" /></a><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">HORSEY- BLESSING</span></span></b></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoKKxr3I-0puN1dNF-MnSfXxdDS05cvAQZW-cIyQtYMMWPDzeA-Quw01sO3mjARk1JAg3ERHoeQEjRdC3lpU12YvAA1CI4U6_jqhIqdEs2MDvVAqE9HqQC1SnzkYwzmC57sOZfrLxtzE/s1600-h/IMG_3196.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoKKxr3I-0puN1dNF-MnSfXxdDS05cvAQZW-cIyQtYMMWPDzeA-Quw01sO3mjARk1JAg3ERHoeQEjRdC3lpU12YvAA1CI4U6_jqhIqdEs2MDvVAqE9HqQC1SnzkYwzmC57sOZfrLxtzE/s320/IMG_3196.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405366339010658" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC00;">MELISSA CAME HOME FROM GERMAN</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC00;">Y</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAq3mJgYag2kHlM1hn4iXVxK5OBNPeo84WMju9osRm_B_mtxkbDnH0UNjwUtUjqCEBxiMLKq7dQGhZ4_USuZ5-IeerWWdJDR4BZICJ_eAaIW72s8pp3OR3jLKBIJ0IAGIbDSE5HpDWqhI/s1600-h/IMG_3176.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAq3mJgYag2kHlM1hn4iXVxK5OBNPeo84WMju9osRm_B_mtxkbDnH0UNjwUtUjqCEBxiMLKq7dQGhZ4_USuZ5-IeerWWdJDR4BZICJ_eAaIW72s8pp3OR3jLKBIJ0IAGIbDSE5HpDWqhI/s320/IMG_3176.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405357842825266" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#990000;">CALIFORNIA YSA CONFERENCE-- FRESNO</span></span></b></div><div><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrSvTULnIGhyphenhyphen6dfe44yWyiJytKo7tXKeajayaUDtVHFq0kWjfs93VmN_dEq_AFHzF_swf5SyicG8ddxQOsupfaeSzA4mD3d6EXPhFAjmg3A7Fdx_Hq0v8JNt59r5TGbVcqMSConib1boo/s320/IMG_3170.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380402583184722530" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIpJj7E8OjAvRM6fCKSsZm5985vZZhEQQswKhnsxZtxtedK_t0RtjCM77rlyMOpdYS-CaownuHusCnseqYnrvZZHPlsI5n-gdR0_5BR-hUSP_lnuCjoT82W6m43gTnM3ayQ8gxOAhjtc/s320/ysa09-2365+(1).jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380402605952337282" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfA0jNVq1tJ0zOvyIL6r9tUUPtbx0btqY09N0zvtLuHtw-m_uqYF_ZuajkeLwsGT61bfA1xTAbQa-CYoLz51dySWIj9Wn6YH1aktvAlgt3u18PBY0Nwl1eAOmf9pOB66M9u7RzqPGHiTQ/s320/6290_681935553699_17823283_38414693_1504678_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380402597459981570" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOue0XLf3yjJmY0izAqwKQey5UZKKNzfFoWZ3jSZO_R6xmDp5lQN8DpS9C5uKJgNv-NgvFl6rjJAUQuf_rcxnBzPvbPNImUyZwfgbrW3ZqZYs2_VJTglPkgEgmHT0kNbAWoNKl7V06xHk/s320/6290_681935543719_17823283_38414692_6675353_n.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380402589755369186" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">MARC ETCHEPARE- (METCH)</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;"><b><br /></b></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWW5kCw39wz1bYm5hvXhyel00zGZ_tVvDlB-HHBYAcCi3eXnE3Xs-inckmSM-Mzqj3hskAJo14lxBaII4trnzMNhwJiHarQEdGe1BuKqbp5v90rTIvzaPMSdXLqMZs1_JIeP-3VoxyKw/s320/IMG_3216.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405342120459538" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCRRO4exOoYptuExFL1A0dZ_YrQieypKPuzvndSzsHPhtNGSfbBIWyxUH9F9X-GYI99T6swq4hdkcyiaJNI01j7wa0aRe4dRm3AN10nGZ5MlQTcb88w_H1MUe4LrzvHvu-GJE1SAOHCI/s320/IMG_3145.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405331678878882" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8omYmvPwUezwBt719r6oIGJjfr7DsNnRKIu7BeiPEfe0dPhkDd6cuQCsz9QZ8Mqoe7PB73U_78QeChwVyXpC9JN8WUj4FFvm8ET6jRQgi7wQsWbXFNnQ70NRRw5ApjpNB2LAYmv6k84/s320/IMG_3221.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405347048284290" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I ALSO HUNG OUT IN LAS VEGAS WITH JOSH, BUT WE DIDN'T TAKE MANY PICTURES. :(</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-37602912006199413402009-07-23T11:06:00.001-06:002009-07-23T11:14:33.864-06:00Congratulations...Yesterday, I was grocery shopping for my mom, and I decided to take my siblings with me. At the end of one errand, I let them each get a piece of candy. As we were walking out of the store I was stuffing Milky Way in my mouth, and I said to one of my sisters:<br /><br />"I think I have a problem. I think I'm addicted to chocolate..." <br /><br />She said in a very joking manner: "I'm so proud of you... you're admitting you have problem." <br /><br />After this my youngest sibling pipes in and says "Congratulations, Kate!!"<br /><br />Congratulations to me...KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-22889205169648698812009-07-14T19:16:00.000-06:002009-07-14T19:25:40.107-06:00They're on a Mission...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-KxAAlNnAN8lYHuy04XWf95qr3-rwZWUYuU8AYu7jla6z1CDOjWG8Jeiug1T22x5PwW7J4TiznApJfxwbs8PtaLq4QROjR6mhgqg9j6abMbE8JzTu4_XAr-ob4Mj9qElms-Ba9OySyM/s1600-h/ArtBook__109_109__MissionariesElders____.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-KxAAlNnAN8lYHuy04XWf95qr3-rwZWUYuU8AYu7jla6z1CDOjWG8Jeiug1T22x5PwW7J4TiznApJfxwbs8PtaLq4QROjR6mhgqg9j6abMbE8JzTu4_XAr-ob4Mj9qElms-Ba9OySyM/s200/ArtBook__109_109__MissionariesElders____.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358491499099382802" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So, I’ve been giving a lot of thought to this blog seeing as this is a topic that is very close to my heart for more than one reason.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Most people reading this know that I’m a student at BYU and that BYU is a religious university.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The majority of students that attend BYU are Latter-Day Saints or (as we are commonly referred to) Mormons.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Something unique occurs every year as freshman years ends.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">All of the boys that are or are turning 19 years old turn in papers to church headquarters.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Several weeks later, an envelope comes for the guy.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This envelope contains where the guy is being “called.”</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For some missionaries, they stay in the United States and others are shipped out across the globe.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Some speak foreign languages.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Speaking a foreign language, they stay in the MTC for a month or so.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If they are speaking English, they stay in the MTC for about three weeks. No matter how long the missionary spends in the MTC, all the boys are supposed to be out for two years.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In my last year at BYU, I have made many amazing friends.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A lot of those friends are guys. So, many of my closest friends (including my best friend and my boyfriend) are leaving/ have left. It might sound strange to people outside of our faith.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Young men, having no contact except letters for their entire two years... all over the world... preaching our religion. However, I believe it is one of the greatest acts of service that anyone can do.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">These boys pay to go on their missions, and they serve others for two years of their lives.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I am so grateful for the missionaries.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">They brought my dad’s side of the family to the gospel.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">if it weren’t for the missionaries I might not be here! :) They also bring comfort and truth to countless people and change lives for the better.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I want everyone to know how much I love this church, and how grateful I am for missionary work.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The gospel is amazing.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I would not be where I am today without it.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It is so comforting to me that I am never alone.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Not only do I have other church members, but I have, God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. No matter what I do, or what others try to do to me, I will always have Jesus Christ.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The gospel has helped me through many hard times in my life, and I know that it can change lives.</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Finally, I just want to tell all my guy friends especially Josh Prince and Kurt Hanson how proud I am of them for their decisions to serve missions.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Josh is going to Ukraine and speaking Russian, and Kurt is going to the Seattle, Washington Mission.</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I am so proud of you guys.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You both have touched my life in so many ways.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I will not be the same without you. I will miss you both so much, and I will be praying for you.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Kurt will report on August 19, 2009 and Josh reports August 26, 2009. God Speed, Elders!</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So, if you ever find yourself having a hard time or you need some questions answered.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Let these wonderful missionaries come and talk with you.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">They are inspired by God and they can help.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Also remember, these guys are my friends, neighbors, and classmates.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">They’re cool guys.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">:-) You’ll like them.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> For further Information on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints please go to LDS.org or Mormon.org or just ask me! :D</span></span></o:p></span></p>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-67050575060900281542009-07-03T15:57:00.000-06:002009-07-03T16:09:36.766-06:00STOP. Dollar time!<div style="text-align: left;">To beat the heat, my sisters and I hit the dollar store. I bought my normal haul of sugar while Lar and Liz looked for a toy. They sure did find toys. :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;">Laura found some fun pictures that taught her about the "Happy Horse" and how cows go "Moo!"</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns6f2mX2nKwgXix362Smtl4n5HXYAe0iTMnmk2v1IYwQs31F_41G1TRCj86XOuZ3uRn1kpoi8186NULhZe-9T_Zz3fEtj8ASvHNYfuuFWIZu56LzBBtkaKGaDwx1raE8DrfPOagOWhAY/s1600-h/6656_119336684809_754864809_2979346_3654993_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhns6f2mX2nKwgXix362Smtl4n5HXYAe0iTMnmk2v1IYwQs31F_41G1TRCj86XOuZ3uRn1kpoi8186NULhZe-9T_Zz3fEtj8ASvHNYfuuFWIZu56LzBBtkaKGaDwx1raE8DrfPOagOWhAY/s200/6656_119336684809_754864809_2979346_3654993_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354357902025711522" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6666;">I found some new and very stylish sunglasses. ;-)</span><br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLry4g0qEYJ1dNa6J9a4Sje89sTEWHvYz2suJBLetyXh0qhc-7VZAoBH6byyZ9o-GzjgAjc6ofMwlK2mIEYPM4OIPSn3leRJsDtlwtFNPaDd7I3RePtp0cankozYx75xvfSaX39WkziNQ/s200/0703091303-00.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354357898410812402" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#993399;">Liz found her toy...but then Laura found this doll. We called it gangster baby... "What you lookin' at fool?!"</span><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdY9TgGniReW2_oscHXvouvqFPwuKRShFLgOhCMrzRHXbmMX0RC32UYOjJm4Y5Brruz-_F11F_HKU9RztIxAOht4lgL6BmdsuesxHZeziP6T6X04PfskK_QY3BPSpirxWt0c-5Ds1rR8/s200/0703091258-01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354357907050322834" /><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">It reminds me of the hand gestures and facial expressions of a guest that a team member helped at Target. He kept talking about his "beat machine" and making this face and movement. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;">Ah, summer.</span></div></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-79061158627563541212009-06-29T22:29:00.000-06:002009-06-29T22:55:02.755-06:00Every dog has his daySo, I was picking up Laura from something, and I brough our dog along. I was listening to the music Josh sent me and it made me smile and laugh. However, my dog... not so much...<div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxrzorUVCgfvEatgbauzBr1Hsc45qygL1oYVku2Ea26zh_P3R187DNQlRywYOWxpNoFDgBQ_Cg33KR2kCaQBQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-73415881336318174512009-03-09T02:14:00.000-06:002009-03-09T10:25:31.951-06:00Sympathizing with a Clam<div><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="Arial","sans-serif"font-family:";"><a href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/patience_is_waiting-not_passively_waiting-that_is/259695.html"><span style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">”</span></span></span></p></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I am certainly not as happy as a clam right now. Things have been bugging me left and right, and I have tried to fix them quickly. Recently, a friend told me to just sit and wait. I had to take one of my headphones out and stop rapidly typing emails. I asked him to repeat himself. He replied that being patient was the best thing for me to do. He said that if I feel like being patient, to just sit and wait... or to run. Either way would work.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">It occurred to me that I am not a patient person. I do not look that long before I leap, and I live for the moment. My mom used to tell me that I needed to think longer and harder; I needed to not just go "Splat! Oh well, it's done." </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I hate waiting for an important piece of mail to come; I hated waiting for my driver's license; Christmas can be torture if my parents are trying to surprise me. It is ESPECIALLY hard for me to wait for someone to be ready to talk and express themselves. Sometimes I get carried away in trying to resolve things or in expressing myself... because I AM ready to not be worried about the problem. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I think a big reason for my impatience is that worries and problems feel like they are all my fault when in fact they are not my fault. Even if the worry or problem is out of my control, it irritates me. I feel like a clam with a small grain of sand inside of my shell, and I want it OUT NOW. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">In thinking over my current dilemmas, I see the need for patience and understanding on my side...even if I feel like other parties are being unreasonable, and not seeing how much I love and care... how much I am sacrificing...how much I am putting my heart out in the open (this is against my nature.) The friend said I could wait and be patient... or run. He said to wait if I cared or to run if it was not that important. I have slowed down for once, and I realize the need for patience. I will not run and go "splat."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">As much as the grain of sand inside this clam's shell bothers her, it is essential to be patient. You never know when that irritating piece of sand that won't stop rubbing you the wrong way, will result in a beautiful pearl. </span></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-61863167159108294592009-03-05T21:54:00.000-07:002009-03-05T21:57:03.720-07:00When Your Hut's on Fire<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; "><div><div><div><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">My dad sent me this, and it made me cry. I wanted to pass this on to anyone who might need this right now.</span></span></span></p><p><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">When Your Hut's On Fire </span></span></span></p></div></div></div><div><div><p><span style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br />The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /><br />Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /><br />One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt the worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. He cried out, 'God! How could you do this to me?'</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /><br />Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him! 'How did you know I was here?' asked the weary man of his rescuers. 'We saw your smoke signal,' they replied.<br /><br /><br />The Moral of This Story:<br />It's easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of our pain and suffering. Remember that the next time your little hut seems to be burning to the ground, it just may be a smoke signal that summons the Grace of God.</span></span></span></p></div></div></span>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-33436936471375026602009-02-27T00:51:00.000-07:002009-02-27T01:19:39.333-07:00The Benefit of the Doubt<p class="MsoNormal">Have you ever watched a corny chick flick, or maybe a TV show where the main character makes a huge mistake? Namely mistakes with regards to friends, significant others, and family. And you sit there and yell at the tv screen because you see the irony. You see what both characters are dealing with... I know that it ties knots in my stomach. I think to myself: "if he/she could just see what the other is going through... they wouldn't give up on something they both want."</p><p class="MsoNormal">This is one reason I try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. You never know when your actions might help or harm another. That's why it is so important to keep an open mind, and if things don't always go as planned... sometimes you show how much you care by holding on and being there for that person.</p><p class="MsoNormal">We all express ourselves in different ways. Next time you think to judge another, keep in mind that they might be having problems that only the know about. We're all in this world to be tested. Sometimes life gets hard... we can all agree with that. It's important to remember our hard times, and to look at someone and not judge their shortcomings. Remember: <em style="font-style: normal; text-decoration: inherit; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The worth of souls is great</span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> in the sight of the Lord.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">This poem is a little off topic. However, I love it, and it fits pretty well.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 255, 153); font-family: Papyrus; font-size: 20px; line-height: 26px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 20px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 20px; "></span></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">The Touch Of The Master's Hand</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:180%;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Myra B. Welch</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"> Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer</span></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">thought it scarcely worth his while<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">To waste much time on the old violin,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">But held it up with a smile.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"What am I bidden, good folks," he cried,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"Who'll start the bidding for me?<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">A dollar, a dollar, then, two! Only two?<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Two dollars, and who'll make it three?<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice;<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Going for three . . ." <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">But no,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">From the room, far back, a grey-haired man<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Came forward and picked up the bow;<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Then, wiping the dust from the old violin,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">And tightening the loose strings,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">He played a melody pure and sweet<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">As a caroling angel sings.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">The music ceased, and the auctioneer,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">With a voice that was quiet and low, said: <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"What am I bid for the old violin?"<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">And he held it up with the bow.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two?<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"Two thousand! And who'll make it three?<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"Three thousand, once; three thousand, twice;<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">And going and gone."said he.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">The people cheered, but some of them cried,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"We do not quite understand, what changed its worth?" <br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Swift came the reply:<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">"The Touch Of The Master's Hand."<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">And many a man with life out of tune,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">And battered and scarred with sin,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Much like the old violin.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">A 'mess of potage,' a glass of wine;<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">A game - and he travels on.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">He is 'going' once, and 'going' twice,<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">He's 'going' and almost 'gone'.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">But the Master comes and the foolish crowd<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Never can quite understand<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">The worth of a soul and the change that's wrought<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">By the touch of the Master's Hand.</span><br /></div><p></p><p></p>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-2914270535048008262009-02-22T18:15:00.000-07:002009-02-22T18:53:18.232-07:00A Work in Progress...<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102); ">Recently, I've had a lot of time to think. It is amazing how much a walk, a good song, or a quote can change how you think about something. </span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Today in church we talked about how grateful we need to be for what we have. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I know this:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I have always wanted to be independent; Moving away from home was the perfect opportunity to be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">independent</span> and learn more about myself. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I have learned:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">How to do my laundry without messing up the colors of my clothes.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Drinking soda every day will make me sick.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I need to sleep.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Making your own decisions isn't all it's cracked up to be.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Big jackets and hot chocolate are MUSTS in the snow.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Ice is evil and will cause you to get large bruises if you fall.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Microwavable food is amazing.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Friends are your family away from home.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">It's easier to see who your true friends are.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I love my family so much</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I have ALWAYS loved my family, but I never appreciated all of the nice things that my mom and dad did for me. I also miss Laura going through my closet before seminary... and singing at the tops of our lungs to whatever was on the radio. I miss when I would be sad... and Lizzie would come find me...no matter how much I wanted to be alone. She'd bring me tissues and band-aids...even if I didn't have any cuts. :-) I guess that growing up means understanding how much you love and appreciate your family. I like to think that I appreciate them now. I don't appreciate them enough, but I know I appreciate them more than ever.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">Time has flown by, and March is upon us. Today, we also discussed how we need to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">appreciate</span> every moment we have. Every minute we waste being unhappy or ungrateful is time we will never get back. We discussed the talk "Finding Joy in the Journey" and it mentioned this quote:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); ">"Pile up too many tomorrows and you'll find that you've collected nothing but a bunch of empty yesterdays." </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255); ">-The Music Man</span></div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I am a work in progress, but I've decided to try and appreciate every moment I have. I'm not going to rush to grow up or to be too <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">independent</span>... or I just might end up with a bunch of empty yesterdays.</span></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-66812487374025000842009-02-02T20:23:00.000-07:002009-02-02T22:25:43.843-07:00Cleaning Up<div>DISCLAIMER: I have not proofread this. So, if you find errors... it's because I had to go and proofread real homework. ;-)</div><div><br /></div><div>It's dusk outside, and there's some snow on the ground... inside my bright dorm room, my roommate is listening to her rap... and doing a dance. The sink slowly drip-drops as our California flag sways away from our wall...N64 controllers, backpacks, shoes, and dirty laundry litter our floor... maybe it's time to clean up...<br /></div><div><br /></div>But first, I want to comment on ballroom try-outs...<div> As I walked into the RB, I saw them in massive groups. I noticed their athletic builds and their perfectly kept sandals. Their makeup was flawless, and I could find no imperfection with any of them... I watched the masses parade into a room... I followed the sound of their Latin sandals clicking against the hard floor. I walked into the room and took a look around...Those Latin sandals that I had followed into the room gracefully clicked the floor... I nervously clicked the heels of my own Latin sandals... secretly wishing that they would take me home... I was so intimidated. There was no way that I could dominate <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">that</span> dance floor. So, I left the ballroom try-outs... without even trying out. oh well, there's always next year! ;-)<br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div>Well, let's see... college life has been great, so far. It has been a month since I returned to school. This semester, I have started volunteering with TOPS. I basically go and help in a classroom. I love the kids! They are all so cute! It has been fun so far!</div><div><br /></div><div>Some more volunteering I'm doing is at BYUSA. I have started by writing a few press releases for BYUSA, and that has been going well. Last week, I wrote one about "Knight Games." It's basically a medieval carnival in the Wilk. Next week, I have to write one on YBall. That should be interesting.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of press releases, I get to write press releases for the Stanislaus County Fair! I loved working there last summer, and I was so happy when they said I could write press releases for this year!</div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately, I'm not writing press releases in my communications classes... I'm not even writing articles. That really bums me out... I miss writing in my classes... my communications 275 class is fun. Learning how to use video editing software is almost worth getting up at 7:15 for 8:00am lab. ;-) The teacher for my communications 239 class is a cool guy, but I wish we got to write... like in communications 211...last semester. On the bright side, my presentation group scored a 90% on our project!! YAY! We would have done better if we hadn't gone 10 minutes over! Ooops! :-P</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of scores, I am soooo excited about my American Heritage test! American Heritage is a dreaded class...that EVERYONE at BYU has to take. I was freaking out about my test... because the TA sent emails that said things like "if you're not happy with your score, don't worry...we'll curve them." Well, I went in and took it... I felt my palms sweat in anticipation. I read over the questions carefully and made a smeary mess of my bubble sheet. With shaking hands, I gave it to the testing center attendant. I quickly ran by the screen with not so much as a glance... I came home and turned on my computer... With my heart pounding, I clicked the link that would give me my score... I got a... 91.2%...wait? Did I see that correctly? I keep making sure it's real, and apparently, it's real! I still have to wait for the written portion to be graded, but I am sooooo grateful that my studying and prayers paid off!!</div><div> </div><div>Matt's taking that class with me... which makes it awesome! :-) He opened his mission call on Friday. He's going to Tallahassee, Florida Spanish speaking!! I am so excited for him, but I will miss him...</div><div><br /></div><div>Man, I have been typing for a really long time...</div><div><br /></div><div>As I have been typing, it has become very dark outside... there's some snow on the ground. Inside my bright dorm room, my roommate is still listening to rap... and doing a dance. The sink slowly drip-drops...our California flag makes a swaying movement... the N64 controllers, backpacks, shoes, and dirty laundry still litter our floor... maybe it's finally time to clean it up.</div><div><br /></div></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-35693335631133893212009-01-08T14:43:00.000-07:002009-01-08T15:31:34.992-07:00Would you sit with me and just forget the world?I'm back in P-town. Christmas break was fun. I went and saw "Phantom of the Opera" and watched a lot of Veronica Mars. :-D<div><br /></div><div>I have started a new set of classes...</div><div><br /></div><div>American Heritage,</div><div>Book of Mormon,</div><div>Marriage and Family,</div><div>Principles of Journalism,</div><div>Intro to Broadcasting,</div><div> and Social Dance.</div><div><br /></div><div>They all seem to be alright... for now. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have gotten to see Matt a lot more, which is really cool!! </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm just working on getting organized and ready for the semester. I bought a wall calender (What a step!) and post-its are beginning to litter my desk.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, tonight, there are tryouts for the ballroom dance teams... I REALLY want to try... but I'm SO SCARED!!! So, we'll see how that goes...</div><div><br /></div><div>I'll write more later...</div><div><br /></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-27725488507992300612008-12-12T03:41:00.000-07:002008-12-12T03:52:38.283-07:00Lights will guide you home...WOW!<br /><br />Finals week is almost upon us!!<br /><br />This has been one of the hardest semesters EVER. I LOVE BYU, but I am ready for a break.<br /><br />I recently took my Benchmark test for the communications major... I hope that it went well.<br /><br />In other news, Grandma Johnson passed away last weekend. If I have not been myself lately or whatever, I apologize. It has been a hard thing to deal with. She was so wonderful, and she was such a great example to all of her family members. I love her so much, and I hope she knows that. Her funeral is on Saturday, and I think Matt is going with me.<br /><br />I've been working on my communications 101 project. That has been frustrating because the group doesn't seem to like ANY of my ideas... and then they act like I do nothing... I am missing my grandma's viewing to be here...so hopefully they won't give me a poor peer grade. :-/<br /><br />I get to go home on Thursday!! Don't get me wrong, I will definitely miss it here, but I am ready to sleep in my own bed again... not to mention going back to sharing a bathroom with just Laura... that will be so nice.<br /><br />I am so busy right now, but I have tried to find the good in what I need to be doing.KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6635032386698619318.post-4398867586137193792008-11-17T11:50:00.000-07:002008-11-19T02:52:17.913-07:00We are number one!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuzqz13sGY-pdtFKQ9MwvehfuXIk0M8XycOrt4LQMolS8rIXQD-s4rVa99FhZdOkS4Q5_JHjo42RXEzXHbySzCaem3qOY50eCtLo4G7rdXECUZx_AnHL0eX6N4XIop2g8TRVKf3c8p6I/s1600-h/IMG_0783.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269843423652808546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCuzqz13sGY-pdtFKQ9MwvehfuXIk0M8XycOrt4LQMolS8rIXQD-s4rVa99FhZdOkS4Q5_JHjo42RXEzXHbySzCaem3qOY50eCtLo4G7rdXECUZx_AnHL0eX6N4XIop2g8TRVKf3c8p6I/s320/IMG_0783.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">So, it has been 13 weeks since I began being a BYU Cougar. At first, I felt silly, and I even regretted not going to UCLA. Now, I realize that coming to BYU was the best decision I could have made.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span> </div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">1. The communications program is wonderful.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">2. I've learned so much.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">3. I love my roommate.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">4. My room/hall is awesome.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">5. I love being so close to the church.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">6. I get to see my cousin Kaelin all of the time.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">7. I am an RHA officer, and I LOVE it.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">8. There are so many service opportunities.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">9. I love wearing the color blue.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">10. I am accepted and not shunned for my beliefs.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">A lot of new things have happened in the last few months. I've gotten to help put on BYUSA activities, I became an RHA officer, I met my best friend Kurt, and I found Matt.</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;">BYUSA- Is the student leadership organization on campus. Their focus is on serving other students. I was an event chief for the BYU Monster Mash (Halloween party.) It was a lot of work, but it was so much fun!</span></div><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="color:#ff6666;">RHA- Is the Residence Hall Association, and I am an officer for Helaman Halls. So far, we've put on a Halloween party, freeze fest, and a Dodgeball tournament. Everyone is so fun and amazing.</span></p><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="color:#ff6666;">Kurt Hanson- Is officially my best friend. We're both pre-comms: print journalism majors. We've had some good laughs, and will continue having them in the future.</span></p><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXaBCn2udb1lMoqI_JuL7nVs68Z5GoIJyzFRZcWkloXMyKscVkZG4JNNepM3Zsr7i8hjxR4lBR1qRBh0Og05Gpx0cHzltpTDdP3NiLRd8-2WySdwqUEvuCrzENs16r8EEL3QAnt9FujY/s1600-h/IMG_1460.JPG"><span style="color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269844836756056626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 256px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXaBCn2udb1lMoqI_JuL7nVs68Z5GoIJyzFRZcWkloXMyKscVkZG4JNNepM3Zsr7i8hjxR4lBR1qRBh0Og05Gpx0cHzltpTDdP3NiLRd8-2WySdwqUEvuCrzENs16r8EEL3QAnt9FujY/s320/IMG_1460.JPG" border="0" /></span></a><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /><br /><br /></span></div><p><span style="color:#ff6666;">Matt Orgill- My boyfriend. Yes, you heard me... <em>boyfriend</em>. Matt and I met at an RHA retreat in SLC. He's from Reno, NV, and he loves to sing. Matt is a neuroscience major, and he is just <em>so wonderful</em>. He'll be going on a mission as soon as school lets out. </span></p><div><span style="color:#ff6666;"><br /></span></div><p><span style="color:#ff6666;">Yup, life is very, very, very, good... except for my research paper that will be due soon... and my psychology test that I have to take by Friday. Well, it'll be okay. :-)</span></p><p><span style="color:#ff6666;">Toodles!</span></p></div>KMussmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14509267178277219405noreply@blogger.com0