Memorial Day.

There are a few reasons I have a difficult time writing something fitting for this day, I have tried several times to come up with a good post, however all I can muster is: "I miss you Mike." This is the anniversary of my big brother's passing several years ago (he was only 32); well actually my brother and his son Michael Jr. (just 71/2). The details are sad enough, but sometimes it is better to just say I had a really good guy for a brother, he was missed then and he is missed still. I could write the things that made his special to me, but I would never stop writing. His little boy was 16 hours older than my #1, they were both born in the same hospital. We were close to them both and we miss them more than words can describe at times.

To keep our minds off this tragedy, Chronicler, The Big Guy, Thor, and myself went out to Chronicler and Big Guy's property in AZ. This was the first time Thor and I had seen the land, and it sure was pretty. Some hills and a few 'gully washers' where the rain gathers to run down the slopes, just enough trees and large bushes to give it texture and beauty. Lots of petrified wood, tiny purple, blue and red rocks and pebbles, and at least one geode. Blooming catus, a couple of varieties, and surprisingly devoid of tumble weeds.

The sky is huge and clear, deep blue, and the clouds look painted on. We encountered one bug, a very small army of black ants, and one excitable bright neon green lizard who liked to show off by running upright and waving his little arms as he went by. The best encounter was a small herd of antelope who pranced by flashing their very white little tails. And then there was the discovery down the road of a fully grown black cow that had been decaying beside a Juniper bush for quite some time.

I took a few photos of bees as they jumped from flower to flower gathering nector and dusting themselves liberally with pollen. There were also photos of the land, the trees, hills, and even one particularly pretty one of Chronicler framed by the arms of one of her wild Junipers. Unfortunately neither blogger nor flickr! will allow me to post photos today. SAD FACE.

Thor and I had such a fun time. We walked the whole property and exchanged ideas on just where and how certain areas of the property should be developed. A honeymoon cabin here, a hunting lodge there, and the large front window of the house should be riiiiggghht here so it can see this view of the sunset every night. They took it pretty well considering we were 'spending' a lot of their hard earned dollars on retreat cottages for ourselves and a retirement home to boot. Everyone needs a rich relative to fall back on, right?

We also took in X-Men, which I thought had a lot of holes in it. (Thor tells me to get over it...it's a cartoon!) This is the first time I have seen any X-Men movie, so in fairness, I wasn't the best critic. However, when the bad guy was standing in bright sunlight one minute and turned his head to another bad guy and the night sky had fallen...it was a bit inconsistant for me. That and some other stuff made it kind of silly, but still it was a fun movie.

The only let down was the trip home with the holiday traffic swelling up near Palm Springs. Lucky for us, Chronicler was familiar with the area well enough to route us around the freeways and down little known "roads". We probably saved a good hour of freeway sitting!

All in all we had a great time. I just wish I had the photos to prove it!

A little good news...

Tuesday, May 23 Washington Post staff writer, Hamil R. Harris wrote an interesting and positive article on Gladys Knight and her part in a conference held at a Maryland Stake Center.

Anyone interested in reading good news, including her testimony and others, and an urging to allow those missionaries on bikes into your home go to: Washington Post!

In other news I have learned that the entire videos for Special Witnesses of Christ and also The Restoration are also available for viewing on line. Special Witnesses ofChrist is one of my all time favorite videos and I am very excited that now, anyone with interest can just click and view it over and over again if they wish. Both movies are the full length versions and good quality.

Enjoy!

An open (gripe) letter to all Ward Slackers

For some time now the church has had limited janitorial services and expect the members of the wards to regularly attend to the cleaning of the building. In our area, each ward is assigned certain times and within the ward each auxiliary is designated a particular day. This seems like an easy idea; until you consider the following. Some folks don't respond to the call to clean, and others feel that whatever they leave wherever they leave it will magically disappear or "someone" will pick it up for them.

Three other folks, and myself, are tired of being your "someone".

Thor is a High Priest, he is also Young Men's President, and I am a sister in the Relief Society which means when it is our turn to clean the building, Thor and I are expected to be there bright and early three out of four Saturdays in a month. Fine, I have no problem doing my share. However I do have a problem with cleaning pink lipstick kissy lips off of the windows, gum wrappers off the floors, putting books back onto shelves or bench holders, and other seemingly needless chores that should have no need to be done in the first place.

I am a bit fed up with you folks who allow your family's food, toys, and papers to remain on the pews. You just drop the hymnals on the floor and leave them there to press open the pages and dog ear the corners. Hello! The holder is at your kneecap, use it!

Today I unwound the cords of two different mics from around the piano leg. WHY? There is no need for that. The same for having to empty small classroom trash cans filled to overflowing when a large 32 gallon trash can is available down the hall in another room. Did you somehow miss seeing that the can was spilling over to the carpet or do you just like to see how high you can balance trash?

It makes me nuts to see the windows and the doors, filled with not just tiny fingerprints, but those of large people who should know better than to push on the glass instead of the handles, or play on the windows and just walk away. And those kissy lips? Egads! Can't you see how filthy that outside window is, I mean really...there was bird poop right next to your lipstain. You make me gag. And BTW, your nose print is pretty gross as well, if you can't see as far out to the parking lot as you wish, GO OUT SIDE, it's lovely weather out there.

What about erasing a board after class? How hard is that? Or vacuuming up after that whatever you did in the cultural hall last night? Do you think your mom is coming in today to wash those dishes on the counter or wipe off the stove? How about taking home that stuff you left in the fridge, I mean really, no one is here to eat your leftovers.

Hey mom, ever wonder why the Mother's Room smells the way it does? 'Could have something to do with a pail full of poopy diapers left to ferment over 7 days in the desert heat. Now let's think, just for a minute, how one might solve that issue...

If the four of us who do show up to clean the building for you are willing to scrub the toilet, mop the floors, wash all the doors, foyer windows, and mirrors, vacuum the entire building, dust each room, empty the large trash cans, replace all the paper goods, and ready the place for Sunday worship... the least you can do is take home the dang trash you leave in the pew each week. C'mon, that program is not that heavy, and don't you need that book at home? And while we're at it, how long do you go between snacks at home, and who pick the crackers and candy wrappers up for you there?

Take this as my personal invitation to come help once in a while, the four of us would like to go some place on Saturday morning too. Contrary to popluar belief, you are not that special and yes, this is your job too. You know, maybe if it takes 4 of us 3 hours to clean each week, if you came, maybe we could get done in 1 hour?

In your honour I offer the following song to get you motivated:

Ere you left the church this morning,
Did you think to clean?
Place the book back in its' holder?,
Pick up all your books and folders,
As you left the scene?

No, your mother does not live there!
She will not clean up for you.
If you make a mess while you're there,
Clean it, get a clue.

Classroom trash can filled with garbage,
Did you empty it?
Did you take the program with you?
Leave no wrappers on the church pew,
Where you family sits?

Did you leave the sacrament cups,
Cheerios or tiny toys?
Did you make sure it was spotless?
What did you teach your girls and boys?

Did you use the glass or handles,
to enter through the doors?
Print on windows full of sorrow,
Spray of Windex did you borrow
How clean were the floors?

No, your Mother does not live there.
Janitors have gone away.
It your job now, please do your share,
Before you leave today!

We get to clean -AGAIN- next Saturday. Do us a favor and clean up after yourself today so if you don't show up, at least all we have to do is clean what is actually on the list of chores and not all the extra work you leave behind.

Thanks.

(Original Text: Mary A. Pepper Kidder, 1820–1905
Music: William O. Perkins, 1831–1902)

FYI

I just deleted a huge long detailed post about how I have just been released from my calling at church (Relief Society Education Counselor [sort of like being VP in the Ladies Group at church]) and how that has kept me busy the last few weeks. I rethought that post and deleted it.

Suffice it to say I am HAPPY about the release, although today I woke up to the knowledge that I actually do have a deep love for these sisters, literally crazy or not, the inactive ones and the ones who are mean and ornery. The one who speaks broken English but goes out of her way to give me a hug each week. The one who glares at me each time I go out of my way to say hello to her. The older gal who I just adore for no reason other than she rocks the Kasbah. I even love the one who caused me the most headaches and the ward the most trouble. I have tried to explain to others that if this woman were a broken clock, she would still be right twice a day.

I have a testimony of missionary work in the sense of finding the lost sheep and bringing them back into the fold, as it were. I never thought it would be as easy as writing a genuine letter, sending an invitation, or just asking someone to actually come to church. But it is. I know that not everyone who is needy wants to be helped, and that someone who has everything, who is generous and giving, also needs to be given to.

I am saddened that others do not share my enthusiasm at the work, nor my disappointment with our current failures. One of my biggest heartaches comes from what I term "Adult Apathy". I believe it will be the catalyst for the weeding out in the last days, however far off or soon one presumes those days are.

I am so glad for the two really good friendships I have made. One to a sister who never sees ill and another who always, always feels the Spirit and follows what she feels. They have taught me much.

Most of all I am even more grateful for Thor who seems to always give excellent advice, knows when to push me and when to help me refrain from "doing". I still manage to mess up on a regular basis, but he always finds a way to help me get through. He is wise and more patient than I when it comes to other people. He also knows when to stop and he is trying to teach me that timing as well.

So, for now and probably a tad bit longer i am without a calling. So I hope to use the extra time around the house and getting more things done. I have a commission from a young family to do a temple painting so I want to get that started soon as well. I am excited about having time to breathe, some alone time and some time, hopefully, to build on my talents.

But first, I need to tackle that bedroom! Did I tell you Thor finally put down the wood in the hall floor? WAHOO! The front of the house is filled to the brim with books and other "stuff" that was in the hall on book shelves, etc., so I have a lot of work cut out for me.... yikes!

Brought to you by the letter "B"...

ms. Lisa invited me to play! Wohoo! She gave me the letter 'B'.

Uh Oh Bees
Originally uploaded by star-fangled-nut.

Here's how it works: If you wanna play too, let me know in the comments or send me an email and I'll assign you a letter. Then you write about 10 words that start with that letter that are important to you and explain why. Here it goes!

1. Blessings. I fell in love with Thor, who just happens to have a "B" in his name. So my #1 favorite important "B" thing is how it is attached to my Thor! Then the blessings began. We have had some pretty tough times like everyone and the blessings always come. If it is one thing I have learned and wish would always be in my forefront, it is that the blessings ALWAYS come.

2. Beauty mark. Well that 's what we call it. My Grampa had this gynormous mole just to the side of his nose. Well I inherited that mole; only mine is more like a freckle with an ego. Low and behold our first daughter also inherited it and hers has been admired by many a young fellow with remarks of how hers is way prettier than Julia Roberts.

3. Beach. Gimmie a beach cause I LOOOOOVE 'EM! I grew up near a beach most of my childhood. I knew how to swim before I could walk and I just get happy happy happy when I can smell that Briny Beach Breeze!

4. Babies, Bread, Beach, and Bad weather. My favorite scents in the whole world! Nothing smells more wonderful and works like aroma therapy on steroids for me than the smell of a new baby, baking bread, awesome beach air or the air when it rains...Baby them thars good smellin!

5. Birth mark. Thor and I have a "thing". There is a legend that says before you were born God pulled you apart into two pieces. He sent one half of you here and the other half of you there and if you were lucky someday you would find your other half and just feel it, know it. Thor and I know we are "pull aparts" because we both have birth marks on two places on each of our hands that, if we put our hands together the same way, the birth marks match up. We are pull aparts and these birth marks are our scars from God.

Yeah, it's cheesy, but it works for us.

6. Babies. All I wanted to be when I was little was a mom. My 5 babies made my dreams come true; and yeah, I am one happy mom.

7. Books. I have a ton of books and I have a very hard time throwing any of them out. I love the idea of a whole wall of nothing but books on shelves. A comfy chair and a good lamp, and some time to enjoy reading. wow, wouldn't that be nice? For right now they are everywhere... all over the house, in every room, a gazillion books!

8. Basics. I enjoy knowing the basics. Like when someone says, "Hey we're making grapevine wreaths..." I know they really mean they will decorate a premade wreath of vines. I like to know how to make the actual wreath from the actual vine. Take me back to the basic of whatever and I get pretty excited.

9. Browsing. I really enjoy browsing through bookstores, museums, cities, cemeteries, gardens, churches, and pretty much anywhere I can find something to look at and observe...even if it's only people.

10. Believing. I have been blessed with a believing heart in matters of God, the Church, stuff like that. I question some, but mostly I trust and believe. The things I do question I think the answers will come when I am Spiritually mature enough to handle them. I think it has been a blessing for me in the long run. I see the struggle others have with so many things in life that for me just "are" or they "are not".

what's a meme 4?

I was waltzing through my blogs today and caught up with Ms. Jewel over at cryptic lady's couch. Seems she would like to tag me with a meme. Unfortunately I already did the weird things about s'mee, so I opted for an different meme she had on her blog. I think these ones are as interesting, so, for Jewel, here you go:

1. Name a trait you share with your parents or children. Parental traits, I would have to go with potty mouth, complaining constantly, and being able to make something from nothing. With the offspring the traits would be enjoying music, dancing like a nutcase, and humour in just about every situation. That and their amazing, almost spokesmodel good looks.

2. How would you describe your personal comfort zone? I like to be barefoot, I like to be surrounded by good chocolate, I like being relatively out of debt, and I don't like being alone. Other than that I am pretty comfy. Well, if you don't count scary stuff.

3. What's the best advice you've been given, but didn' t heed? In my P.B., It advises me to make my close friends "only those who have strong testimonies in the church". There is an awful lot in those few words of advice. And I have learned for me, the hard way, I should make my friends those who have strong testimonies of the church! That and buying oranges when I should have been buying Apples.

4. Do you like your handwriting? I do like my handwriting, although I admit to being able to match closely pretty much any handwriting if I can study it for a few minutes. It's more of an artsy thing than any other reason. There for a while I used calligraphy as a way to make my writing more "pretty". After a while I hated that idea. I LOVE the way both of my sisters write; and I find it almost eerie that one of my daughter's handwriting is a dead wringer for my dad's. Thor's handwriting is that of a brain surgeon, i.e. good luck reading it. That and the handwriting one the wall has always been pretty good.

So dear sister, if you ever get a minute, this would be a good meme for you. She always has something good to say.

Birth Control and Micro Abortion "How does our birth control really accomplish the task?"

So we have learned that if one believes the fact that “life begins at conception” and that conception means when the egg and the sperm meet and begin to grow, then there is also an opportunity for pregnancy to happen -even though one has been using a birth control method other than abstinence.

We know that there are, what the medical field refers to as, “break through” fertilizations and that a pregnancy can and does happen in every form of “birth control”. The fertilized eggs that are able to attach and form a placenta are considered a viable pregnancy. But what about the other fertilized eggs, the other viable lives that are unable to attach? Those pregnancies are not counted because most women haven’t a clue they were pregnant. How does this happen? It happens because the way their birth controls are designed to work. It happens through abortion.
As in the post prior, I will high-light my own words in blue. All others will be from the articles listed at the end of the quote. I do take liberty at italics and bold.

“There are over 30 "contraceptive" pills on the market, each differing a little from the others. They prevent birth through three separate functions.

1. They thicken the mucous plug at the cervix. If this is the primary effect, then it truly is contraceptive because it prevents sperm from entering.

2. They prevent release of the ovum. If this is the primary effect, then the function is "temporary" sterilization.

3. They render the lining of the womb hostile to the implantation of the tiny new human at one week of life. This effect is abortifacient.

The earlier high-estrogen pills largely prevented ovulation. The newer low-estrogen pills allow "break-through" ovulation in up to 20% or more of the months used. Such a released ovum is fertilized 10% or more of the time. Most of these tiny new lives which result, do not survive. The reason is that at one week of life this tiny new boy or girl cannot implant in the womb lining (see number 3 above) and dies. These are micro-abortions.

The pill, then, can have a contraceptive or temporary sterilization effect (by far the most common), or it can be an abortifacient. "The Physiologic Function of Certain Birth Control Measures," National RTL News, Mar. 9, 1981”

This means that if there is a break through fertilization, which the experts and manufacturers tell will happen from time to time, that the back up plan for these BIRTH controls is to provide an in home abortion, however early.

"The morphological changes observed in the endometrium of oral contraceptive users have functional significance and provide evidence that reduced endometrial receptivity does indeed contribute to the contraceptive efficacy of OCs." In other words, because the endometrial lining is not receptive to the human being, who must implant in order to continue living, the human being will die. Somkuti, et al., "The Effect of Oral Contraceptive Pills on Markers of Endometrial Receptivity," Fertility and Sterility, Vol. 65, #3, 3/96, p. 488”

“What of Progesterone-Only pills?
These fall into the same category as the Progesterone- Only implant, Norplant, and the Progesterone-Only injection, Depo Provera.”

So... “What about Norplant and Depo Provera?

On Norplant: “This is an implant under the skin of her forearm that lasts five years. In the first half of that time it’s effect is to almost always suppress ovulation. In the last half of that time, break-through ovulation is the rule. However, very few pregnancies survive. Clearly, this second half is commonly effective through micro-abortions and prevention of implantation.”

On DepoProvera: “As with Norplant, there is some variance from woman to woman, but in a far higher percent of cases Depo Provera suppresses ovulation. Break-through ovulation, however, does occur as attested to by full-term pregnancies recorded with women who were receiving this shot every three months.”

Both of these use a form of continuing dose of progesterone. Part of the time they prevent ovulation. Part of the time they allow ovulation and fertilization, but prevent implantation. Therefore, they function both as a contraceptive, at times, and as an abortifacient at times”

And then we have the facts on how an IUD really works:

“The intrauterine device, commonly referred to as an IUD or coil (in Europe), is a small plastic or metal device that is inserted through the vagina and into the cavity of the uterus. The purpose of this is to "prevent" pregnancy.

Is an IUD a contraceptive or an abortive agent?

...Almost all scientific papers had agreed that its effect was to prevent the implantation of the tiny new human being into the nutrient lining of the uterus; an abortive action. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration stated in an official report that its effectiveness is "in direct proportion to the quantity and quality of the inflammatory reaction to various types of IUDs"...and states that there "is one common thread . . . " They all "interfere in some manner with the implantation of the fertilized ovum in the uterine cavity." Second Report on IUDs, Dec. 1978, U.S. Dept. of HEW, Food & Drug Administration Document 017-012-00276-5
A detailed report in a Planned Parenthood publication in 1989 claimed that a high percentage of its action was the prevention of fertilization. IUDs are ontraceptives, not Abortifacients: A Comment on Research and Belief, I. Sivin, Studies in Family Planning, Vol. 20, No. 6, Dec. ’89” My question is: what about the opposite side of that equation? What about the low percent? Aren't those still considered abortions?

So this leaves us with another question. Which birth control methods work also as an abortifacient?

“Which methods do this? In varying degree, the methods that prevent implantation, and therefore kill a baby at one week of life, include the intrauterine device (IUD), Norplant, Depo Provera, Progesterone Only pills, low-dose contraceptive combination pills, and the morning-after pills.”

If we, as women, consider ourselves edcucated about our rights, our bodies, and our ability to make correct decisions for ourselves, should we not be more conserned, more proactive about how we are treating our bodies and how the chemicals, drugs, etc., react inside each of us? Or do we allow our medical communities to make those decisions for us? Would we allow our doctor to do major surgery without studying all the facts and if that surgery were indeed our only option?

How many of us did more than read the package instructions? Do we read the small print and question why the "side effects" are what they are? Many of us trust our doctors, friends, even our unknowing mothers and went blindly into this practice feeling assured we were safe. Trusted that our furture children would be safe. We are living in a world where we need to know for ourselves.

A few more quotes from my church leaders:

"Scripture declares that the “life of the flesh is in the blood.” (Lev. 17:11.) Abortion sheds that innocent blood. …It is the belief of those who are members of this Church that human life is so hallowed and precious that there is an accountability to God on the part of those who invoke the sacred fountains of life." Russell M. Nelson, “Reverence for Life,” Ensign, May 1985, 11

"President Spencer W. Kimball has recently said, “This is one of the most despicable of all sins—to destroy an unborn child to save one from embarrassment or to save one’s face or comfort.” (Ensign, Nov. 1974, p. 7.)

“For the unborn, only two possibilities are open: It can become a live human being or a dead unborn child. ….Dietrich Bonhoeffer, referring to the unborn babe in the mother’s womb, said, “The simple fact is that God certainly intended to create a human being.” …Because she feels it, every mother knows there is sacred life in the body of her unborn babe. There is also life in the spirit, and some time before birth the body and the spirit are united. When they do come together, we have a human soul. For the Lord has said, “And the spirit and the body are the soul of man.” (D&C 88:15.)”

The destruction of such a treasure is so abhorrent that the First Presidency of the Church has clearly and repeatedly counseled the world—as did President Kimball this morning—against the taking of unborn life. I quote, “Abortion must be considered one of the most revolting and sinful practices in this day. … Members of the Church guilty of being parties to the sin of abortion must be subjected to the disciplinary action of the councils of the Church as circumstances warrant.”

Members are counseled neither “to submit to or perform an abortion except in the rare cases where” it is medically necessary, and, as the First Presidency has further counseled, “even then it should be done only after counseling with the local presiding priesthood authority and after receiving divine confirmation through prayer.” The First Presidency has advised that it will be amenable to the laws of repentance and forgiveness. (Ensign, March 1973, p. 64.) James E. Faust, “The Sanctity of Life,” Ensign, May 1975, 27

I urge all who may have dipped into the fountains of life to respect the divinity inherent in that life and to protect this sacred treasure and its transcending blessings. For the Savior of the world said, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these … ye have done it unto me.” (Matt. 25:40.) James E. Faust, “The Sanctity of Life,” Ensign, May 1975, 27

Now, is there hope for those who have so sinned without full understanding, who now suffer heartbreak? Yes. So far as is known, the Lord does not regard this transgression as murder. And “as far as has been revealed, a person may repent and be forgiven for the sin of abortion.” 13 Gratefully, we know the Lord will help all who are truly repentant. 13. General Handbook of Instructions, 1983, p. 78. Russell M. Nelson, “Reverence for Life,” Ensign, May 1985, 11

My hope is that if any of us are in the practice of using these forms of birth control that we can study it out and make an informed decision on whether or not to continue, or choose an alternative method. I also have faith in what my church leaders have said; that if anyone feels they have "sinned without full understanding" they can and will be forgiven through the process of repentance.

Sunday recess post

Last night we had the Little Man and his folks over for a visit and out to dinner. After dinner we came back to the house. Grampa Thor was teasing Little Man. We have an amazingly narrow family room. With gramma's chair on one side and grampa's chair just opposite, Grampa has the ability to block access in or out of the room by just raising his leg across to gramma's chair. After a few rounds of "let me in, let me out" Grampa raised the stakes.

Little Man: I want in.
Grampa Thor: What's the magic word?
Little Man: Pleeeeease.
Grampa Thor: Nope.
Little Man: Pleeeeeease Grampa Thor?
Grampa Thor: How 'bout 'abracadabra'?
Little Man: NO Thor! That's NOT the magic word.
Grampa Thor: Well, how 'bout 'Open Sesame!'
Little Man: (grousing face)
Grampa Thor: Can you say 'Open Sesame!'
Little Man: Open ssssss...
Grampa Thor: Open, Ses - a - me, ses-a-me, ses-a-me.
Little Man: OPEN SES - A - THOR!

he kills me.

Hey baby, let's go to Vegas! The odds of becoming *pregnant* while on *Birth* Control

After exhaustive research on the subject I found a government website that compiled all forms of birth control used within the U.S. and how they work. I have deleted information about STDs, AIDs, increase opportunity for various cancers, side effects, etc. as I am focusing primarily on the effects of the methodology of birth control; however I have added nothing to the text except what is written in blue font. I have inserted italics and bold type to emphasis my point.

From women's health .gov :"Bear in mind that NO method of birth control prevents pregnancy all of the time. Birth control methods can fail, but you can greatly increase a method’s success rate by using it correctly all of the time. The only way to be sure you never get pregnant is to not have sex (abstinence).

Continuous Abstinence – This means not having sexual intercourse (of any kind) at any time. It is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy. This method is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy. (0 chances for a fertile egg)

Periodic Abstinence or Fertility Awareness Methods – A woman who has a regular menstrual cycle has about seven or more fertile days or days when she is able to get pregnant, each month. Periodic abstinence means you do not have sex on the days that you may be fertile. These fertile days are approximately 5 days before ovulation, the day of ovulation, and one or more days after ovulation. Fertility awareness means that you can be abstinent or have sex but you use a “barrier” method of birth control to keep sperm from getting to the egg. Barrier methods include condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps, used together with spermicides, which kill sperm. These methods are 75 to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. (.1 to 25% chance of having a fertile egg)

Keep in mind that to practice these methods, you need to learn about your menstrual cycle (or how often you get your period). To learn about your cycle, keep a written record of when you get your period, what it is like (heavy or light blood flow), and how you feel (sore breasts, cramps). You also check your cervical mucus and take your basal body temperature daily, and record these in a chart. This is how you learn to predict, or tell, which days you are fertile or “unsafe.” You can ask your doctor or nurse for more information on how to record and understand this information.

The Male Condom – Condoms are called barrier methods of birth control because they put up a block, or barrier, which keeps the sperm from reaching the egg. Male condoms are 84 to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. (2-16% chance for a fertile egg)

Oral Contraceptives – Also called “the pill,” contains the hormones estrogen and progestin and is available in different hormone dosages. A pill is taken daily to block the release of eggs from the ovaries. The pill is 95 to 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy. Some antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of the pill in some women. Talk to your doctor or nurse about a back-up method of birth control if she or he prescribes antibiotics. (.1 -5% chance for a fertile egg)

Most oral contraceptives are swallowed in a pill form. One brand, called Ovcon 35, can either be swallowed or chewed. If it is chewed, you must drink a full glass of liquid immediately after to make sure you get the full dose of medication. There are also extended cycle pills, brand name Seasonale, which have 12 weeks of pills that contain hormones (active) and 1 week of pills that don’t contain hormones (inactive). While taking Seasonale, women only have their period 4 times a year when they are taking the inactive pills. There are many different types of oral contraceptives available, and it is important to talk to your doctor or nurse about which one is best for you. You will need a prescription for oral contraceptives.

The Mini-Pill – Unlike the pill, the mini-pill only has one hormone, progestin, instead of both estrogen and progestin. Taken daily, the mini-pill thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. It also prevents a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus (womb). Mini-pills are 92 to 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy if used correctly. The mini-pill needs to be taken at the same time each day. A back-up method of birth control is needed if you take the pill more than three hours late. Some antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of the pill in some women. Talk to your doctor or nurse about a back-up method of birth control if she or he prescribes antibiotics. You will need to visit you doctor for a prescription and to make sure you are not having problems. (.1-8% chance for a fertile egg)

Copper T IUD (Intrauterine Device) – An IUD is a small device that is shaped in the form of a “T.” Your health care provider places it inside the uterus. The arms of the Copper T IUD contain some copper, which stops fertilization by preventing sperm from making their way up through the uterus into the fallopian tubes. If fertilization does occur, the IUD would prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the lining of the uterus. The Copper T IUD can stay in your uterus for up to 12 years. This IUD is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor to have it inserted and to make sure you are not having any problems. Not all doctors insert IUDs so check first before making your appointment. (1% chance for a fertile egg, and as a side note and purely antidotal side bar, I know personally of two children born who survived the IUD; i.e. 1% is greater than it seems.)

Progestasert IUD (Intrauterine Device) –This IUD is a small plastic T- shaped device that is placed inside the uterus by a doctor. It contains the hormone progesterone, the same hormone produced by a woman’s ovaries during the monthly menstrual cycle. The progesterone causes the cervical mucus to thicken so sperm cannot reach the egg, and it changes the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg cannot successfully implant. The Progestasert IUD can stay in your uterus for one year. This IUD is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor to have it inserted and to make sure you are not having any problems. Not all doctors insert IUDs so check first before making your appointment. (2% chance for a fertile egg)

Intrauterine System or IUS (Mirena) – The IUS is a small T-shaped device like the IUD and is placed inside the uterus by a doctor. Each day, it releases a small amount of a hormone similar to progesterone called levonorgestrel that causes the cervical mucus to thicken so sperm cannot reach the egg. The IUS stays in your uterus for up to five years The IUS is 99% effective. The Food and Drug Administration approved this method in December 2000. You will need to visit your doctor to have it inserted and to make sure you are not having any problems. Not all doctors insert the IUS so check first before making your appointment. (1%chance of a fertile egg)

The Female Condom – Worn by the woman, this barrier method keeps sperm from getting into her body. Female condoms are 79 to 95% effective at preventing pregnancy. There is only one kind of female condom, called Reality, and it can be purchased at a drug store. (5-21% chance for a fertile egg)

Depo-Provera – With this method women get injections, or shots, of the hormone progestin in the buttocks or arm every 3 months. It is 97% effective at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor for the shots and to make sure you are not having any problems. (3% chance for a fertile egg)

Diaphragm, Cervical Cap or Shield – These are barrier methods of birth control, where the sperm are blocked from entering the cervix and reaching the egg. The diaphragm is shaped like a shallow latex cup. The cervical cap is a thimble-shaped latex cup. The cervical shield is a silicone cup that has a one-way valve that creates suction and helps it fit against the cervix. The diaphragm and cervical cap come in different sizes and you need a doctor to “fit” you for one. The cervical shield comes in one size and you will not need a fitting. Before sexual intercourse, you use them with spermicide (to block or kill sperm) and place them up inside your vagina to cover your cervix (the opening to your womb). You can buy spermicide gel or foam at a drug store. Some women can be sensitive to an ingredient called nonoxynol-9 and need to use spermicides that do not contain it. The diaphragm is 84 to 94% effective at preventing pregnancy. The cervical cap is 84 to 91% effective at preventing pregnancy for women who have not had a child and 68 to 74% for women who have had a child. The cervical shield is 85% effective at preventing pregnancy. Barrier methods must be left in place for 6 to 8 hours after intercourse to prevent pregnancy and removed by 24 hours for the diaphragm and 48 for cap and shield. You will need to visit your doctor for a proper fitting for the diaphragm or cervical cap and a prescription for the cervical shield. (6-16%, 9-16%, 26-32%, 15% chance for a fertile egg, respective numbers)

Contraceptive Sponge - This is a barrier method of birth control that was re-approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2005. It is a soft, disk shaped device, with a loop for removal. It is made out of polyurethane foam and contains the spermicide nonoxynol-9. Before intercourse, you wet the sponge and place it, loop side down, up inside your vagina to cover the cervix. The sponge is 84 to 91% effective at preventing pregnancy in women who have not had a child and 68 to 80% for women who have had a child. The sponge is effective for more than one act of intercourse for up 24 hours. It needs to be left in for at least six hours after intercourse to prevent pregnancy and must be removed within 30 hours after it is inserted. Women who are sensitive to the spermicide nonoxynol-9 should not use this birth control method. (9-16%, 20-32% chance for a fertile egg, respective numbers)

The Patch (Ortho Evra) –This is a skin patch worn on the lower abdomen, buttocks, or upper body. It releases the hormones progestin and estrogen into the bloodstream. You put on a new patch once a week for three weeks, and then do not wear a patch during the fourth week in order to have a menstrual period. The patch is 98 to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, but appears to be less effective in women who weigh more than 198 pounds. You will need to visit your doctor for a prescription and to make sure you are not having problems. (1-2% chance for a fertile egg)

The Hormonal Vaginal Contraceptive Ring (NuvaRing) – The NuvaRing is a ring that releases the hormones progestin and estrogen. You squeeze the ring between your thumb and index finger and insert it into your vagina. You wear the ring for three weeks, take it out for the week that you have your period, and then put in a new ring. The ring is 98 to 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor for a prescription and to make sure you are not having problems. This birth control method is not recommended while breastfeeding because the hormone estrogen may decrease breast milk production. (1-2% chance for a fertile egg)

Surgical Sterilization (Tubal Ligation or Vasectomy) – These surgical methods are meant for people who want a permanent method of birth control. In other words, they never want to have a child or they do not want more children. Tubal ligation or “tying tubes” is done on the woman to stop eggs from going down to her uterus where they can be fertilized. The man has a vasectomy to keep sperm from going to his penis, so his ejaculate never has any sperm in it. They are 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy. ( .1% chance for a fertile egg)

Nonsurgical Sterilization (Essure Permanent Birth Control System) – This is the first non-surgical method of sterilizing women. A thin tube is used to thread a tiny spring-like device through the vagina and uterus into each fallopian tube. Flexible coils temporarily anchor it inside the fallopian tube. A Dacron-like mesh material embedded in the coils irritates the fallopian tubes’ lining to cause scar tissue to grow and eventually permanently plug the tubes. It can take about three months for the scar tissue to grow, so it is important to use another form of birth control during this time. Then you will have to return to your doctor for a test to see if scar tissue has fully blocked your tubes. - After 3 years of follow-up studies, Essure has been shown to be 99.8 % effective in preventing pregnancy. ( .2% chance for a fertile egg)

Emergency Contraception – This is NOT a regular method of birth control and should never be used as one. Emergency contraception, or emergency birth control, is used to keep a woman from getting pregnant when she has had unprotected vaginal intercourse. “Unprotected” can mean that no method of birth control was used. It can also mean that a birth control method was used but did not work – like a condom breaking. Or, a woman may have forgotten to take her birth control pills, or may have been abused or forced to have sex when she did not want to. Emergency contraception consists of taking two doses of hormonal pills taken 12 hours apart and started within three days after having unprotected sex. These are sometimes wrongly called the “morning after pill.” The pills are 75 to 89% effective at preventing pregnancy. Another type of emergency contraception is having the Copper T IUD put into your uterus within seven days of unprotected sex. This method is 99.9% effective at preventing pregnancy. You will need to visit your doctor for either a prescription for the pills or for the insertion of the IUD, and to make sure you are not having problems." (11-25%, .1% chance for a fertile egg, respective numbers)

With information, one can conclude that no method is guaranteed to prevent pregnancy, (form a fertile egg), except abstinance. All the other forms have some risk of pregnancy, however minute.

The things we need to ask ourselves are, when a fertile egg does occur while on these methods, what happens next? What happens to that egg? Does it make it to birth or is it aborted?

Also, these percentages are the numbers deducted from the fertile eggs that were eventually considered a viable pregnancy. There are some fertile eggs that, although alive, formed, growing, and headed towards a uterus to implant, never make it, and are therefore never counted as a fertile egg. These are "lost". How does a fertile egg -conceived in spite of contriceptives -become lost before it can be counted even as viable? Do women know they can be aborting these fertile eggs and not even know it?

In order to answer these questions we need to know how these birth controls work...in even further detail. Something the drug companies used to inform us about, now we need to dig to find out. Next post we'll try to find some answers.

When two worlds collide...life begins.

Getting into differing viewpoints on birth control can become very edgy at best. I will preface my viewpoint with those of (LDS) church leaders and also opinions from the scientific, medical, and governmental fields. I will begin the post with the question, “What is life?” followed by “When does life begin?”

“Life” – the general condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic and dead organisms, is manifested by growth through metabolism, a means of reproduction, and internal regulation in response to the environment. (Webster's College Dictionary)

Life for a human is defined as, any individual of the genus Homo, especially a member of the species, Homo Sapiens; a person distinguished from other animals; such beings are unique from all other beings in that they have 46 human chromosomes in every cell. A Down’s syndrome (sometimes referred to as “Triple X" ) human has an extra chromosome. They are human, but humans with an abnormal number of chromosomes. Abnormalities occur within the human family, extra digits, blindness, etc.

When does life begin? “It is not a question of when “meaningful life” begins or when the spirit “quickens” the body. In the biological sciences, it is known that life begins when two germ cells unite to become one cell, bringing together twenty-three chromosomes from both the father and from the mother.” (Russell M. Nelson, “Reverence for Life,” Ensign, May 1985, 11)

“There is no longer serious doubt in my mind that human life exists within the womb from the very onset of pregnancy.” (Dr. Bernard N. Nathanson New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 291, no. 22, p. 1189.)

The more scientific knowledge of fetal development that has been learned, the more science has confirmed that the beginning of any one human individual’s life, biologically speaking, begins at the completion of the union of his father’s sperm and his mother’s ovum, a process called "conception," "fertilization" or "fecundation." This is so because this being, from fertilization, is alive, human, sexed, complete and growing.

In 1982, lengthy hearings in the U.S. Senate and the two-volume report of the Human Life Bill defined "conception" and used it exclusively to mean the time of union of sperm and ovum. "Human Life Bill," (U.S. Senate Common Judiciary, Subcommittee of Separation of Powers, 97th Congress, S-158, April-June 1982, Serial No. J-97-16)

Sperm enter the woman’s vagina, swim through the cavity of her uterus and out through her Fallopian tubes. This can take as brief a time as five minutes to pass through the uterus and reach the tubes, and as brief as another 15 minutes to pass through the tubes and reach the ovaries. The egg, breaking out of the shell of her ovary, is penetrated by the head of one spermatozoa. Immediately the ovum creates a chemical or electrical charge or fence preventing other sperm from entering.

The pronucleus of the sperm, containing its 23 chromosomes, in about 12 hours migrates to meet the ovum’s pronucleus with its 23 chromosomes. Their fusion takes about 2 hours.
Then in another 18 hours this 46 chromosome nucleus divides into two cells.Then into 3 cells at which time some new opinion believes the "decision" is made to stay single or pro-gram to divide into twins. Then to 4 cells, to 8, to 16 and on and on. (Jones and Schraeder, "The Process of Human Fertilization," Fertility and Sterility, vol. 48, no. 2, Aug. 1987, p. 191 Word Wars, E. Diamond, Physician, Nov. 1992, Pp. 14-15 Personal Communication, J. Lejeune 1994)
Most use the moment of sperm penetration as the "moment of conception." Others wait until their pronuclei fuse at 12-14 hours to say conception is a completed process. In either case this new human life is complete at the first cell stage.

After much research I have concluded that life begins at "conception", which means when the sperm and egg join each other and begin to divide and grow.

Discourse on Marriage

I have been reading much recently on the factual decline of traditional families in the Nordic Countries due to the view their citizens and governments have on marriage and family. According to the research it took only 15 years to descend and adopt a culture where marriage is the exception, not the rule. It has me in a sad place.

I also have had a few discussions on line and within correspondence through my private e-mail concerning my views on birth control and pregnancy control. Over the next few posts I will try to write as distinctly and factually as I can to explain my viewpoints. I know I will offend some, for that I do not apologize, but rather hope to inform.

When I was much younger I heard all of the same talks by parents, teachers and church authorities, "Stay morally clean!" There was even a time in my life when I misunderstood an admonition that implied it was better for me to die than be unchaste. I thought it meant that if I were raped, somehow I was less than pure in the eyes of God and I should have allowed my "death before dishonour." As an adult I know now those well meaning folk were trying to tell me: "Death before you dishonour yourself." No one within the church blames the victim in a sexual crime, they never have, they never will. That being said, many still wonder what's the big deal? If I really love someone, why can't I have a sexual relationship? What if I never marry? Am I supposed to go to my grave a virgin? Well, yes. As unreasonable, unfair -and frankly- almost impossible to achieve as that sounds, yes.

Why the law of chastity; and why is it second only to murder and denying the Holy Ghost? Bruce C. Hafen explains it well.

"Sometimes we give as reasons for the law of chastity the risk of pregnancy or abortion, the possibility of an unwanted or embarrassing marriage, or the chance of a terrible venereal disease. With adultery, we talk about the damage of destroying an existing marriage or family. As serious as these things are, I’m not sure they are the fundamental reason for the Lord’s having placed this commandment ahead of armed robbery and fraud in the seriousness of sins.

Think of it—unchastity is second only to murder. Perhaps there is a common element in those two things—unchastity and murder. Both have to do with life, which touches upon the highest of divine powers. Murder involves the wrongful taking of life; sexual transgression may involve the wrongful giving of life, or the wrongful tampering with the sacred fountains of life-giving power. "(italics added)Bruce C. Hafen, The Gospel and Romantic Love," New Era, Feb. 2002, 10

As unfair and unrealistic as it seems, when we have sexual relationships outside of a legal marriage, no matter our age or ability to procreate, we play God. I decide to give life without God's permission (marriage requirement); I put myself above God and His power. It's the same as if I were a murderer, I decide to take life without God's permission (natural death).

On why marriage is between one man and one woman, those of us who are LDS need not go further than the The Family Proclamation. Not familiar with this proclamation? The following statement also sums it up nicely for me:
"Since becoming a parent is such a transcending blessing, and since each child is so precious and brings so much happiness, a cardinal purpose of marriage and of life itself is to bring forth new life within this partnership with God. Obligations inherent in the creation of precious human life are a sacred trust, which if faithfully kept, will keep us from degenerating into moral bankrupts and from becoming mere addicts of lust.

The responsibilities involved in the divine life-giving process, and the functions of our body, are so sacrosanct that they are to be exercised only within the marriage relationship. Those who do not accept and meet those responsibilities, for any reason, as well as those who do, should never depart from the law of chastity if they wish to be truly happy. All members of this Church seeking eternal joy and peace are expected to and will wish to come to the marriage altar free from sexual transgressions—chaste and pure. Any who fail to do so may find that they have cheated themselves of their own self-respect, dignity, and much of the great joy they seek in marriage. Because of the special inner peace, strength, and happiness it brings, chastity, as the law of God, is and always has been really “in,” and unchastity is and always has been really “out.” " (italics added) James E. Faust, “The Sanctity of Life,” Ensign, May 1975, 27

Above I linked to a (rather lengthly) article about the Scandinavian Countries and the decline of the family and marriage. Within that article are the following paragraphs:

"As Danish sociologists Wehner, Kambskard, and Abrahamson describe it, in the wake of the changes of the nineties, "Marriage is no longer a precondition for settling a family--neither legally nor normatively. . . . What defines and makes the foundation of the Danish family can be said to have moved from marriage to parenthood."
So the highly touted half-page of analysis from an unpublished paper that supposedly helps validate the "conservative case" for gay marriage--i.e., that it will encourage stable marriage for heterosexuals and homosexuals alike--does no such thing. Marriage in Scandinavia is in deep decline, with children shouldering the burden of rising rates of family dissolution. And the mainspring of the decline--an increasingly sharp separation between marriage and parenthood--can be linked to gay marriage. " (italics and bold added)

When sex is accepted outside of marriage; marriage itself is devalued. Marriage becomes a technicality for an outdated society, a tradition rather than a commandment (or necessary ordinance) and pretty soon heterosexual relationships throw marriage out, produce children without bound parents, and homosexual partnerships pick up the marriage slack, eventually adopting children into a household where both gender representations and role models are unavailable.

The article continues:

"In Sweden, as elsewhere, the sixties brought contraception, abortion, and growing individualism. Sex was separated from procreation, reducing the need for "shotgun weddings." These changes, along with the movement of women into the workforce, enabled and encouraged people to marry at later ages. With married couples putting off parenthood, early divorce had fewer consequences for children. That weakened the taboo against divorce. Since young couples were putting off children, the next step was to dispense with marriage and cohabit until children were desired. Americans have lived through this transformation. The Swedes have simply drawn the final conclusion: If we've come so far without marriage, why marry at all? Our love is what matters, not a piece of paper. Why should children change that?" (How many times do we hear that a piece of paper is not necessary if two people love each other?)

"Gay marriage is both an effect and a reinforcing cause of the separation of marriage and parenthood. In states like Sweden and Denmark, where out-of-wedlock birthrates were already very high, and the public favored gay marriage, gay unions were an effect of earlier changes. Once in place, gay marriage symbolically ratified the separation of marriage and parenthood. And once established, gay marriage became one of several factors contributing to further increases in cohabitation and out-of-wedlock birthrates, as well as to early divorce. But in Norway, where out-of-wedlock birthrates were lower, religion stronger, and the public opposed same-sex unions, gay marriage had an even greater role in precipitating marital decline." (italics and bold added)

I will end this first post with a repeat of the quote from James E. Faust:

"Since becoming a parent is such a transcending blessing, and since each child is so precious and brings so much happiness, a cardinal purpose of marriage and of life itself is to bring forth new life within this partnership with God. Obligations inherent in the creation of precious human life are a sacred trust, which if faithfully kept, will keep us from degenerating into moral bankrupts and from becoming mere addicts of lust."

It's good to be King!

birthday crown
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

You've had a birthday, shout hooray! We want to see to you today! One year older and wiser too! Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday Little Man! He's three! The actual date was a few days ago, but the party postponed until today so his Missionary Uncle could be home to celebrate with him.

Gramma made him a birthday crown cupcake. This is the first and very quick (five minute) attempt. Hopefully another day will come and I will give more time to this idea and come up with a prettier version with more details and such.

Faery Tales

Originally uploaded by S'mee.

Tonight is Enrichment Night. The night when all the gals from church get together and learn something new. This evening we have a guest speaker who's topic is "How do I make my faery take come true? (in spite of...)" In spite of illness, failed marriage, no education, whatever! So many sisters in our area have had situations that seem pretty bleak, this night should help and give them some tools to help them succeed, in spite of all the trials.

A while back I purchased this very cool sand castle bundt cake pan at Williams Sonoma (and have seen it elsewhere); so we thought it would be the perfect dessert. I just used a regular cake mix; although I altered it a tad. For the one in the back I used some sour cream, the chocolate got some pudding and the spice mix got a little extra punch with some apple sauce. I covered the entire cake with a simple syrup and sprinkled raw sugar all over the surface. I did this for a couple of reasons. Number one, I won't be there tonight and the cakes had to be done early. The syrup will seal the cake, keeping it moist and fresh. The sugar on the outside give the cake a crunchy crisp exterior that is tasty and glittery like sand. The vanilla cake really looked like sand, very cute. I added some French ribbon flags on the two front turrets and a tiny paper flag over the front gate that describes the flavours. For the diabetics in our group I made fat free sugar free parfaits.

cover
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

I also made the cover for the program and also made matching notebooks that are spiral bound so the sisters can take notes during the lecture and then again during the audience participation part of the program. I have heard the speaker is awesome, but again, I will not hear him, so I hope they take good notes!

I gotta be s'mee!

Susan has a"weird" meme for us today. It goes like this, list 6 things about yourself that make you WEIRD! (my sis, Chronicler has also taken on Susan's meme... if you read 1-a., 2, 3, and 4 you get a peek at some of the weird things we share as sisters.)

I, like my sis, kind of enjoy the weird-ness out there. Compared to the rest of the (U.S.) world, I am conservative and "normal", but in my little sphere of associates, I tend to dance on the edges of weirdness...so here goes.

Teeth
Originally uploaded by Ric Hard.

1. I am anti birth control. (don't get me started, I get nutso. Don't get me started on birth control and pregnancy control and how most LDS adults do not know the difference. Pregnancy control I have no issues with at all.)

2. I am a true 50/50 split personality. Any of the personality or actual psychological, ego-id, clinical tests show me as one of the 2% of the world's population that can be exactly 50-50, both happy and sad, both logical and creative, both literal and vague at the exact same time, in equal intensity. This group of people are the highest group of successful suicides and also the highest group of "successful lifestyle" people, because we are in a constant state of personal conflict. We are the ones who will plan and create our in-laws' 50th wedding anniversary party to the inth degree and at the last minute call it all off because we are afraid it will be a failure. Every right decision we make we doubt it's correctness. We challenge every thought we have, and secretly find fault with ourselves and praise our excellence. Go figure, we're weird.

3. I am a closet (and at times, a not so closeted) hippy chick.

4. I really really really enjoy public speaking; But my voice trembles when I speak of sacred things or things of a very serious nature. It sounds like I am nervous, but I am not, it just trembles and my body shakes.

5. I like sitting in the front row. Unless I am at the ballet or the theatre, then it's center-center, or at a classical concert and then it's center balcony.

6. I don't need a lot of money, although I enjoy very nice things and can appreciate when someone has them. I am not impressed with wealth or the things it can purchase, but am more impressed with what can be done with little or no money, I absolutely delight in supreme bargains. I don't care much for diamonds. Why pay for the sparkle when I can get the same bling from a good CZ? (that said, Thor just gave me a ring for my birthday that has a large beautiful pearl surrounded by 10 diamond baguettes and 6 rounds, and I LOVE it. I admit to feeling guilty about it though. BUT I LOVE IT!!!)

If there were a 7th item it would be that I love change. LOVE it. And diversity. (I guess that's #8...oops I don't know when to stop.) SO Class, here's your assignment: Tell me why you're weird! Or just tell us to go to your blog and we'll read it there.

Big shout out to Susan! Thanks! This was fun!

Thanks to Rick for the photo.

refinishing

Thor and I went to see his parents on an impromptu visit Saturday. As usual, Thor went off with the guys and I sat and chatted with his mom. She is getting to that place in life where you hear the same story repeated three or four times during your visit, but she is so sweet you don't mind. Then every once in a while she'll hit you with a new story.

"Dad and I were in the shower the other day (TMI!!!) and he just stopped and looked at me. I felt a little self conscience, but then I looked at him! HAH! We're pretty wrinkly now! Hahaha! Dad said perhaps we need to remodel us instead of the house! hahah! I looked in the mirror and looked at all the wrinkles on my face. You know my sisters all got the pretty skin and I have always had this ugly pock marked skin, all thick in the cheeks. UGH! Dad knew what I was thinking. He said maybe I just needed more paint. I said, "Forget the paint! I need to be sanded and lacquered! HAHAHAH! Oh don't you wish you could be lacquered? hahah! I'd look like MaryJo! haha!"

My mother in law kills me.

This old house once knew its children This old house once knew its wife
This old house was home and comfort As they fought the storms of life
This old house once rang with laughter This old house heard many shouts
Now it trembles in the darkness When the lightning walks about

Ain't gonna need this house no longer Ain't gonna need this house no more
Ain't got time to fix the shingles Ain't got time to fix the floor
Ain't got time to oil the hinges Nor to mend the window pain
Ain't gonna need this house no longer He's getting ready to meet the saints

This old house is gettin' shaky This old house is gettin' old
This old house has seen the rain This old house has seen the cold
Oh his knees are gettin' chilly But he feels no fear or pain
'Cause he sees an angel peepin' Through a broken window pane

Ain't gonna need this house no longer Ain't gonna need this house no more
Ain't got time to fix the shingles Ain't got time to fix the floor
Ain't got time to oil the hinges Nor to mend the window pain
Ain't gonna need this house no longer He's getting ready to meet the saints

This ole house dog lies a-sleepin' He don't know I'm gonna leave
Else he'd wake up by the fireplace And he'd sit there and howl and grieve
But my huntin' days are over Ain't gonna hunt the coon no more
Gabriel done brought in my chariot When the wind blew down the door

Ain't gonna need this house no longer Ain't gonna need this house no more
Ain't got time to fix the shingles Ain't got time to fix the floor
Ain't got time to oil the hinges Nor mend the window pain
Ain't gonna need this house no longer He's getting ready to meet the saints.

over heard...

man: "...well he and his brother own the place over on Waterman. I"ve never eaten there, but we have them bring in food from time to time at the meetings; and well, no matter how hard you try, you just can't mess up Italian food."
woman: " um yeah. You got that right."

...there was this kitten, in a tree...

Back in the late 80's, or maybe it was the early 90's (who cares?) I was busily trying to be a mom and also help out at church. One particular evening I had taught a class for what was then called "Homemaking Night". I don't remember the class, or even what I taught, what I do remember is a television commercial.

Our church building was fairly new, still very fresh and pretty, and the parking lot was still smooth and with brightly painted white lines between the spaces. We had parking lot lamps to illuminate the area during the dark, but they had been installed incorrectly somehow and didn't work. We also had large convenient spaces with a ramp for the handicapped near the door to the kitchen. The ramp was located between the spaces that had been marked with the familiar blue lines and the wheel chair icon at the base. Two signs were installed at the curbside indicating the special spaces. The ramp, however, remained the same deep fresh black of the asphalt parking lot. The long slope from the curb to the lot also had both its' side edges sloping sharply down, also unpainted and remaining black.

I was the last of the women that night to leave. I had assure the other women that I had only to finish packing up my boxes and bags and I would also be gone. I made several trips back and forth from the building unloading my things at the curbside. I locked the building and went to my car which was parked on the far side of the building. I drove it around to the handicap space and carefully backed it to the curb. I popped the trunk door up and began to pack in the boxes.

By then the hour was late, the night was dark, everyone had gone and I was pooped. I was glad to shut the latch on the trunk. I took my keys out of my pocket and began to walk to the front seat and go home. WOAH! I stepped on a rock and began to lose my balance. I felt the pain of the twisting and tearing of the tendons as I rolled my right foot on the rock. I quickly put all my weight on my left foot to try to not fall when, again I stepped on a rock of some kind, snapped the innards of my left foot and with the pain fell completely to the ground.

It only occurred to me as I laid there crying and laughing at the same time that I hadn't stepped on rocks at all. I had stepped onto the side of the unpainted handicap ramp; and with the angle being so sharp and, with my carelessness and tired thinking, I had not only broke my right foot with the angled pressure, but did the same thing to my left foot immediately afterward.

"I'VE FALLEN, AND I CAN'T GET UP!!!" I started to laugh to myself. I bet this looked hilarious. I am a visual person, I could see myself going down inside my head. This is hysterical! I have turned into that crazed old lady in the commercial! There weren't cell phones back then I was STUCK! I was truly wondering, "what the heck?" and "how am I going to get home?" I did a commando crawl to the front of the car. I rolled over onto my ample backside and reached to unlock and open the door. There in the dark I found the steering wheel and pulled myself up into the floorboard and eventually into the seat. (I have to tell you, if this happened today...well they would find my bleached bones laying there until someone came to my rescue. I was fat back then also, but I was in much better shape! 5 kids will do that to you!) By this time my legs, ankles and feet began to swell and throb. I could feel my feet tighten within my shoes and my pant legs beginning to shrink around the base of my calves.

I took a few minutes to breathe (and go to my happy place) and tried to start the car. The pain of stepping on the gas was incredible. Normally, the drive home would have been about three minutes. Because the pain was so intense I was only able to tap the breaks and gas pedal. I didn't want to go to fast because the thought of stopping made me cringe. It took me fourty five minutes to get home and I just rolled slowly through the lights, red, green or yellow; I didn't care if I got hit by a semi truck...the pain would at least go away during my coma.

Thor was waiting for me as I drove up. I honked on the horn until he came out of the house. I burst into tears as I tried to move my legs. (Why is it we do that? We can handle things until someone we trust can help is there and then we just fall apart and say "FEEL SORRY FOR ME!") Thor literally drug me out of the car and half carried me in to the house. I was so swollen he had to cut my pants off. Needless to say I am glad the kids were asleep by now! I decided nothing was broken and it was not worth waking up the kids and driving the hour + to the doctors, I could wait until morning.

I crawled around the house on my hands and knees and had to have Thor pick me up to use the potty and to help get me back down on my knees. Going to bed was another story, the sheet on my ankles was too much pressure, it hurt like the dickens, and I knew I was in trouble. I didn't get too much sleep that night.

The next morning Thor packed up all the kids and then I began the crawl out to the car. I got about half way down the front walk to the driveway when the neighbor drove by, slowed down for a good look, waved and drove on. (yes it's me, I am on the ground and crawling. It's a new thing in our house.) That same neighbor is our current Bishop's wife, and yes she brings this story up on occasion, ah good times!

The doctors and nurses couldn't believe that I had actually done this to myself and that it had been via a handicap ramp! The x-rays showed that I had torn all the ligaments and tendons in both ankles. The doctor asked me which leg hurt worse, "my left", "ok., we'll cast that one up. The other one will get a walking cast boot." So there I was with a hard cast on one foot and a gigantic boot thing-y on the other; plus crutches. Very attractive. I looked like the walking wounded. All I need was my head wrapped in gauze, a drummer on one side and a flag waver on the other. I could have been the piper in the middle. E-freaking-gads.

Sunday came and I was at church. The questions began, and for six weeks, everyone I met took one look at me and asked "WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?" After about week one, I began to make up stories. "I fell out of a plane and my 'shute didn't open." "I was trying to save a baby in a burning building. The only way was to jump out of the third story window." "Skiing the five black diamond coarse." "My repelling rope broke half way through my decent." It got to be fun, and I actually had some people going. Other people, the ones who know me, figured it was probably something like trying to commit harikari on a handicap ramp... that's something I would do.

By the way, just last year about this time, they finally got around to painting the blue stripes on the edges of the ramp and outlining the top surface. Oh, and the lamps are finally working also.

woohoo moon!

awesome moon 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

Wow! Is this cool or what? Just now, about 8:15 or so I went outside and looked out over towards our high school and check out the moon! It has this enormous rainbow circling about it! So pretty! I wish you could see it in the photo the way we are viewing it now. My little camera has very low tech-y skills, but trust me, it's pretty!

awesome moon 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

Here it is "up close", wow!

Mount Vernon

DC 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

The last day of our stay we set out for Mount Vernon. Located about 16 miles south of D.C., not only was it a nice drive, but pretty as well. Upon arriving you make your way to a small cottage like ticket booth, gain entrance and make the short hike up to the residence around out buildings which include a gift shop (of course), the slave quarters, and a historical restoration room where you can read all about how the estate was brought back to it's original status. It seems that the original house was George's great grandfather's home and made it down to him after his own father's demise. He built on to the original house, adding not only upper levels, but the surrounding buildings and landscaped gardens, farms, etc. For his time, he was considered quite innovative and clever.

Difficult to see in the photos unless you click to view them larger, is the side of the home. Made from pine, the era dictated that wealth and status would glean a more expensive building material such as stone block. George, although quite wealthy, (consider that the dining room he added on was larger than most homes during that time) decided a better way to achieve the look without the investment of dollars, would be to engage craftsmen. The craftsmen would carve the planks of pine so that they resembled carved stone with grout lines. After the house was assembled the pine was covered with three coats of fresh white paint mixed with sand to give the appearance of stone. This was a technique that many used for the front facades of their homes, George had the entire building and it's pillars, etc. covered this way to carry the illusion even further than the neighbors.

DC 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

Like I said, it's difficult to see in the photos, but it was a pretty good trick. Inside the home George eventually did the same faux techniques to fool his visitors. Pine paneling was installed throughout the home. What wasn't painted with the latest colour of paint was faux finished to resemble rich walnut. Tricky guy.

All in all the grounds were lovely and the view of the river -amazing. George prided himself in his being a farmer and the grounds reflect his passion. Nothing was left to chance. In later years, after his death, the land and it's buildings fell to his nephew and later to other relatives and in 1858 (i think) the Ladies in town said "enough!" Years of visitors and curiosity seekers had done a lot of damage and the entire estate was in disrepair. They gathered their purses and purchased the estate for $200,000.00 and began restoration.

Today it continues. 80% of the original wood is still part of the buildings, etc. Every year more and more of the original furnishings are purchased, leased, or on loan from the owners and placed according to their first intended use in the home. Currently the Ladies of Mount Vernon are busy little bees adding an upscale hotel, museum and other attractions such as restaurants, etc. There are at least three gift shops with everything from nickel and dime souvenirs to high dollar replicated china and silks. These ladies mean business in all it's dementions. They actually have a food court loosely based on the design of George's six sided barn; and the last entry hall you will see as you begin to "leave" has a marble inlay map of the entire estate.

My only suggestion to the ladies would be to visit either DC or SLC Temple Square and study the tour guides. Although it ran smoothly, the guides had a tendency to talk over one another and often you would hear the same information in two different stops, missing pertinent information in others. Still a really nice day.

Please click on the "Mount Vernon" at the top of the post. It will lead you to the official page where you can take a virtual tour of the grounds and especially the interior of the house (where, byw, you are not allowed to photograph). Click out the pop up buttons to get more info and check out the VIVID colours that were the popular rage! Woohoo!

a view from our nation's capital...

DC 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

(cue "Hail to the Chief") We were told that, indeed, the very day we arrived was almost the peak of the blossoms. So when I woke up the first morning I went for a walk on what was described on virtually every form of media, "THE DAY". Yup, lots o' cherry blossoms on lots o' trees. I took the liberty (snicker) of snatching up all kinds of purty pictures of them. And, for all the MAJOR hype they give these truly exquisite trees, it is unfortunate that the bulk of them surround the part of the inlet that is encircled by monuments.

"But why?" you ask, "would that be a problem? Most of the tourists and residents would find that to be a central location and convenient for viewing!" Well, dear tourist, for those very reasons. You see for every blossom on a tree there are an equal and thensome person count; resulting in the perfect opportunity to take out pretty much 68% of the junior high school spring break tour kids along with their 1-15 ratio of chaperones; plus the other spring break tourists; and the folks such as Thor and I who were booked to experience this autobotanical treat whilst learning more about the bin-niss. This mathematical equation results in a gazillion people all trying to view the same trees in the same spot. Yikes-ola!

I kind of wish these trees were everywhere. There are a few scattered here and there, however, they tend to be a tad more spectacular along the "lake" crowded against each other and reflected in the waters thereon and framing said monumental attractions. I was fortunate enough to be staying in a hotel where the capital was a block from us. There were enough trees there to get the sensation of the "holiday", however, I must admit, even being in a tourist trolley (yup, actually did that) and riding rather quickly by the trees while viewing them from street distance...still very pretty.

One thing you learn about DC is that it is a walking town. Everyone walks and they walk everywhere. That being said, the traffic is horrendous! It is in a constant state of "jam" just about 24-7 during this particular week. If you are in a car, understand that you will be in that car and make about as much ground length distance/time as if you were walking. The smart people in this town ride bikes, scooters, or BIKES. Or the subway; which rocks. The deal is this: There are so many things to see that every hotel lists itself as being located "within walking distance of the mall, complete with it's museums and government buildings!" They never tell you that the mall is 87 miles long and the government buildings and museums aren't all lining its' edges, but in fact can be a block or two, or five, this direction or that; and walking can mean walking all day and then finishing up your day with a $65.00 cab ride back to your hotel which is now not within walking distance. It's like tourist crack. You go to one building and then you just keep going and going and thinking to yourself it is fine. Your legs don't register just how far you have gone. Your brain takes over. Your camera is overwhelmed and under loaded. Just about the time you think you are getting to the good stuff, you find more, walk more, need more batteries. I took 239 photos in one afternoon. I mean, really people, crack.

Then there are the other -"further from the hotel"- must sees. Arlington, Old Alexandria, Dupont Circle, Falls Church, Foggy Bottom, Chevy Chase (seems to be a theme these days), Mount Vernon and well you can actually make a day trip out of going up to Baltimore, Down to Virginia, or even out to Altlantic City like our friends did. Personally I do like to take the car out and drive. I love to walk around the National Cathedrial (where all are welcome...even the LDS missionaries I saw there!). If you ever get the opportunity I suggest an hour or two there...very cool. Dupont Circle (area) is also awesome. Most of the Embassies are there, along with gorgeous homes, shops and restaraunts. The Temple is near Chevy Chase, also a beautiful neighborhood. And, although I did not get an opportunity to "go in", I finally found Gallaudet, while Thor found every other major University in the tri-state area. Go somebody! I think one of them had a turtle as a mascot, and then there was George Mason(? - you cannot believe how many "george" things are here...nuts, Georgetown- named for the king, not the president...go figure.) who was in a final four thing.... I am in unfamiliar territory here so I am going to stop; but it was HUGE for all the people we met who lived there.

It is obvious from reading the above, history is not my thing. I enjoy it, I am fascinated by it while I am in it's presence. But it's not my thing and no, I don't remember dates, or names. Events? Yes, those I remember, the why, just not who shot whom and when they shot.

Been three times now and could still go back and enjoy myself more. DC. Darn Cool, for s'mee.

newsflash

o.k. So I am home and can review the DC adventure.

First off, I (we) missed conference and I can't tell you how bummed I am about that, so keep writing folks, I have to wait until Thursday before I can read the talks in full. I view it as punishment, (thank you Jewish heritage.)

Alrighty then. I have been to DC now, three times. Every time I go there is something I pick up on that I didn't know before. This time the big epiphany was trees.

DC 4-06
Originally uploaded by S'mee.

The east has trees, lot of 'em! I knew this the privious times I visited, but I just couldn't put my finger on why I was so caught up in the whole tree thing there.

I grew up in California. We have trees also. We have what some folks call the giants. You know, things like the sequoias or maybe the redwoods- big trees you can drive through. Heck we even name big trees here in CA after presidents, government offices and yes, General Sherman; which happens to be our biggest tree. So when I land and begin to see literally gazillions of trees lining the highway and these wooded areas between the houses and all over the place I was, to say the least, fascinated.

They kind of give me the creeps. These are the trees that you here about on the news. "A body was found near the trees along the bike path at Wildwood Park in Maryland today..." Or the kind of trees in those "Real Ghost Stories" t.v. shows. The kind with shadowy figures just out of your view that somehow are always out of focus. This is where Little Red Riding Hood disobeyed and got caught up in danger.

Another thing about these trees is they are all probably very old, but a teenaged boy couldn't hide behind one of them! These trees are seriously thin, like the size of your thigh if your lucky. I now understand what all the fuss over the redwoods is all about. I am used to seeing trees, average trees up in "my" mountains, that Thor could hide behind and never be seen or heard from again. We get reports of "lost families" or "lost troops of boy scouts" because some ranger forgot to look behind EVERY tree to see if someone was asleep as he walked by. It's possible. The trees out here, and I live in a desert, are huge compared to those on the east coast. Amazing. I am an idiot. I just now got this.