10 years ago today I was sitting in early morning seminary. I was a freshman and my brother a junior without his license. My dad would get up in the mornings for our carpool and drive us to and from seminary, over Goode, listening to NPR. While I would say the talk radio gives me headaches, and I wish he would listen to something else, that day I was glad he was listening. The morning started off like any other and then my dad walked into the room to whisper something in Sister Pulsipher’s ear. She excused us all and on the way out to the car my dad told my brother and I the Pentagon had been hit. I had no idea what he meant or what he saying. The drive to school felt like forever, we listened to the chaos unfold on the radio, and everyone wondering what had happened in NYC and Washington. I went straight to English and we watched the news as they broadcasted live from New York. It felt unreal; I couldn’t believe what was happening. The day passed in slow motion, the minds of teachers and students alike were not focused on school, our thoughts and many prayers were with those directly impacted by the terrorist attacks. The weeks that followed were tense, people hoping to find their family members, search and rescue teams being sent in, volunteers from all over, firemen, police officers giving their lives, and the nation on edge. Amid such pain and sadness I was impressed with how united we came to be. I have always been proud to be an American, and had a profound respect for the men and women who serve our country. The naval service record of my family has engrained that sense of service and pride. I knew other people were just as proud as I, but the manifestation of unity was overwhelming. You couldn’t go anywhere without seeing a flag, often many flags lining streets, bumper stickers, overheard conversations. We were compassionate and understanding with others and united in a cause for freedom and justice.
“Tragedies are not merely opportunities to give Him a fleeting thought, or for momentary insight to His plan for our happiness. Destruction allows us to rebuild our lives in the way He teaches us, and to become something different than we were.” - President Monson
I will forever remember the thousands who lost their lives ten years ago today, their sacrifices, and the sacrifices of many who are considered heroes. I will remember those who died in New York, Washington DC, and Shanksville. I will remember those who, in response to the attacks of 9/11 chose to serve their country and fight for our freedom. I mourn for the loss of life we have experienced ten years ago and since. I am deeply grateful for their sacrifice. President Bush spoke at the WTC Memorial today and shared this message from Abraham Lincoln…
On this 10th anniversary I too ‘can not refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the republic they died to save…and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.’ I am so proud to be an American, and am grateful to live in a ‘land of the free’ because of the brave.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Mothers
I have had many women in my life who have been wonderful examples of strong, faithful, loving women. But none can compare to the one woman I am blessed to call my mother. She has been such a strength to me in my times of trial, whenever I needed a shoulder to cry on, questions answered, or words of wisdom. She has also been the one to celebrate my greatest successes, cheering me on and supporting me in my various endeavours. I have often wondered how my mom has the right thing to say, the right advice to give, that 'mom gene' that just knows when you need something. I know my mom loves me, she loves my siblings, my dad, and wants us to be happy. Often our happy may not line up with her version of our happy, but I know that she loves us anyway. I admire her strength, courage, and spirit.
I spent today thinking about all the things my mom has done for me, her love and sacrifice for me and my siblings. She has helped me to improve, to become the person I am meant to be and not to settle for less than I desvere. Were it not for my mother I would not be the person I am today. She is my support, my strength, my mother, and my friend. I know my mom will hate that I quoted Barack, maybe her least favorite person now, but I think his address fits perfectly. " Mothers are the rocks of our families and a foundation in our communities. In gratitude for their generous love, patient counsel, and lifelong support, let us pay respect to the women who carry out the hard work of motherhood with skill and grace, and let us remember those mothers who, though no longer with us, inspire us still."
I love you Mom, and I hope you know how much I truly appreciate you for all you do for us.
Happy Mother's Day!
I spent today thinking about all the things my mom has done for me, her love and sacrifice for me and my siblings. She has helped me to improve, to become the person I am meant to be and not to settle for less than I desvere. Were it not for my mother I would not be the person I am today. She is my support, my strength, my mother, and my friend. I know my mom will hate that I quoted Barack, maybe her least favorite person now, but I think his address fits perfectly. " Mothers are the rocks of our families and a foundation in our communities. In gratitude for their generous love, patient counsel, and lifelong support, let us pay respect to the women who carry out the hard work of motherhood with skill and grace, and let us remember those mothers who, though no longer with us, inspire us still."
I love you Mom, and I hope you know how much I truly appreciate you for all you do for us.
Happy Mother's Day!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Celiac Disease
Every year the Gluten Intolerance Group has a convention and this year it is in Orlando. I looked into it and thought about making a trip back home and going to the conference. I looked into the conference price, and while it isn't a ridiculous amount of money I still would rather spend that much money elsewhere. They have a scholarship fund that 'first timers' can apply for and the registration fee will be covered. I got the call today that I won a full scholarship and upon telling my family we decided it was for one of the following reasons, either I am a great writer or have a talent for making people feel sorry for me. I'd like to think its first one, though the latter could be useful! Needless to say, I will be in Orlando in July to hopefully learn the latest and live a lifestyle my poor body can handle.
Here is the winning essay:
Celiac Disease? What? My first doctor thought it was lactose intolerance. My second doctor tested me multiple times for anemia, all negative. I had been sick since my senior year in high school; unexplained fatigue, indigestion, and acid erosion led to my final diagnosis. I was a junior in college, studying to become an elementary school teacher when my symptoms became unbearable. I had spent years in constant discomfort and was ready for an answer. I was diagnosed with acid reflux when I was 16, but my current doctor was surprised I had never had an EGD. The specialist was able to determine, from intestinal biopsy, that I have Celiac Disease.
After my diagnosis I thought everything would be alright, I finally knew what was wrong. But I had no idea the battle I would be facing every day, eating out, parties, and even grocery shopping. I went to the store a few days after I found out, and after I had done some research and cried as I paced the aisles looking at everything I can’t have. It has not been an easy road, I have spent the last 2 years going through the 5 stages of grieving. I was in denial; I was the only one in my family diagnosed with something that had a genetic connection. Next was anger, I was so mad I, of all people had to deal with it. Then came bargaining; I didn’t quite understand the disease, and thought if I cut back on gluten I could feel better while continuing to enjoy some of my favorite foods. Depression hit with a strong force and nearly debilitated me. I was in my first year of teaching second grade and the stress of teaching coupled with a complete lifestyle change left me feeling frustrated, hopeless, and at the mercy of my body. I am making my way into the last and final stage, acceptance. I know there is something I can do and that is eat the way my body needs me to eat.
I have done my research online, met others in my area suffering from the same disease, and attended local health food store demonstrations. While these have all been beneficial to me, I know I will learn so much from attending the 2011 GIG Conference. I need to find the ‘Treasures in a Gluten Free World’ to keep myself healthy and happy. I am a recent college graduate, living across the country from my family and support system, learning the ways of adulthood and trying to make it on my own. When I learned about the Conference I knew immediately I wanted to attend, but the cost was my only drawback. Monetary assistance applied to the registration fee would make it possible for me to attend the conference in July. I have never attended a GIG event and know the education I receive from it will be priceless.
Here is the winning essay:
Celiac Disease? What? My first doctor thought it was lactose intolerance. My second doctor tested me multiple times for anemia, all negative. I had been sick since my senior year in high school; unexplained fatigue, indigestion, and acid erosion led to my final diagnosis. I was a junior in college, studying to become an elementary school teacher when my symptoms became unbearable. I had spent years in constant discomfort and was ready for an answer. I was diagnosed with acid reflux when I was 16, but my current doctor was surprised I had never had an EGD. The specialist was able to determine, from intestinal biopsy, that I have Celiac Disease.
After my diagnosis I thought everything would be alright, I finally knew what was wrong. But I had no idea the battle I would be facing every day, eating out, parties, and even grocery shopping. I went to the store a few days after I found out, and after I had done some research and cried as I paced the aisles looking at everything I can’t have. It has not been an easy road, I have spent the last 2 years going through the 5 stages of grieving. I was in denial; I was the only one in my family diagnosed with something that had a genetic connection. Next was anger, I was so mad I, of all people had to deal with it. Then came bargaining; I didn’t quite understand the disease, and thought if I cut back on gluten I could feel better while continuing to enjoy some of my favorite foods. Depression hit with a strong force and nearly debilitated me. I was in my first year of teaching second grade and the stress of teaching coupled with a complete lifestyle change left me feeling frustrated, hopeless, and at the mercy of my body. I am making my way into the last and final stage, acceptance. I know there is something I can do and that is eat the way my body needs me to eat.
I have done my research online, met others in my area suffering from the same disease, and attended local health food store demonstrations. While these have all been beneficial to me, I know I will learn so much from attending the 2011 GIG Conference. I need to find the ‘Treasures in a Gluten Free World’ to keep myself healthy and happy. I am a recent college graduate, living across the country from my family and support system, learning the ways of adulthood and trying to make it on my own. When I learned about the Conference I knew immediately I wanted to attend, but the cost was my only drawback. Monetary assistance applied to the registration fee would make it possible for me to attend the conference in July. I have never attended a GIG event and know the education I receive from it will be priceless.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
My Grandmotherly Ways
I am just going to throw it out there. I am a grandmother living in an almost 24 year old body. I have noticed since the school year started that I need more sleep. But now its just ridiculous. I get home after a full day of go go go and am ready for bed. 9:00 comes around and as soon as my head hits the pillow I'm out! I have achy joints, really now, I played sports but never had such an issue. The cold weather in Utah has done its work and I walk outside and my joints immediately tighten. I may die soon! While those have put a damper on my activity level nothing tops my memory loss. I really have lost my mind. Is early onset Alzheimer known to affect 24 yr olds? If not at least I can find solace in the fact I am the first, and will make medical history! Wonderful! I can't remember what I taught yesterday, I can't remember if I took my medicine...I plan my day in the morning and by the afternoon have completely forgotten what I was going to do. I am such a teacher, with post it notes all over my computer, my room, in books etc. to remind me of all that I have to do. I thought I had lost my SSN card, and funny that it took my mom who is 2000 miles away to help me find it. Ill cross my fingers my memory comes back soon and that summer comes fast. Spring break and warm weather will be good for more than one reason!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Return from my Hiatus
So I haven't posted since August...horrible at this. School has been going well, well until this week that is. Every single day was a battle to get my kids to follow even the simplest of instructions. I feel like a broken record, repeating the same 5 words on a cycle, over and over. I reached the end of my rope today, we had a discussion and I may or may not have raised my voice. Ok, I did, I yelled, which is not me at all. I waited 5 minutes, calmed down and apologized to the class. I got through my whole talk, told them how I felt, we talked about what we could do to rectify the situation and all was good...until the lip quiver. (I have been cursed with my mothers emotional triggers and I cry during commercials.) Thanks to that curse I cried in front of my kids today. Its been quite the year for me. October 1st I threw up in front of my kids, later that month I fell off a desk, and then February 10th I cried. I am a stellar teacher.
On to other things, I hate being a grown up! Why I didn't listen when adults told me adulthood was not easy I'll never know. As a teen my parents made all my appointments, eye doctor, dentist, and so on. My dad took care of all the insurance claims, the filing and reimbursements, taxes, state and federal. Now I'm on my own, making my own appointments, dealing with prescriptions, insurance claims, and all on my own. $200 at the pharmacy(I am a walking pharmacy!), $100 at the dentist, $200+ for new frames and lenses, life is expensive. So much responsibility, not worth it! One thing I am grateful for, my dad still helps with the taxes! I am glad to be in a new phase of life, its fun, and things are interesting but there are days I'd love to go back. Wouldn't that just be so much easier!
But then again, going back is not an option. So follow up question, then, what's next? Who knows, but I sure hope its good!
On to other things, I hate being a grown up! Why I didn't listen when adults told me adulthood was not easy I'll never know. As a teen my parents made all my appointments, eye doctor, dentist, and so on. My dad took care of all the insurance claims, the filing and reimbursements, taxes, state and federal. Now I'm on my own, making my own appointments, dealing with prescriptions, insurance claims, and all on my own. $200 at the pharmacy(I am a walking pharmacy!), $100 at the dentist, $200+ for new frames and lenses, life is expensive. So much responsibility, not worth it! One thing I am grateful for, my dad still helps with the taxes! I am glad to be in a new phase of life, its fun, and things are interesting but there are days I'd love to go back. Wouldn't that just be so much easier!
But then again, going back is not an option. So follow up question, then, what's next? Who knows, but I sure hope its good!
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