Words To Live By Alec - Adult Subjects

We were driving down the freeway when we saw a billboard for "Dirty Joe Punsters", an adult store in Spanish Fork. Alec said, "I used to want to know what was in an adult store until I realized, all adults think about is politics and that is boring! So I don't think I will go there."

He smiled, and I laughed! He thinks he's so funny!

Words To Live By Alec - Moral of the Day

You can teach an old dog new tricks,

but you can't teach Madonna to act.

It's All Good

The other morning, when I woke up, Paul asked, "How do you feel?" I said, "My body aches, my joints hurt, so does my head, and I'm tired, but I don't think I'm getting sick."
Oh I miss those days when opening my eyes meant a whole new adventure. I couldn't wait to get outside and play. I hated to come in to eat or even use the bathroom!
Do you remember when going to your room or taking a nap seemed like a punishment. Now it is my reward!
Once I woke up I was just happy to be alive and looked forward to my day, complete with alone time and a nap!

No wonder people keep asking me about my grand kids!

It's a Guy Thing!

This should go in the Daily Giggle, but it is too long, and much too funny not to share!

"Last weekend, I saw something at Larry's Pistol & Pawn Shop that sparked by interest. The occasion was out 15th anniversary and I was looking for a little something extra for my wife, Julie. What I came across was a 100,000-volt, pocket/purse-sized taser. The effects of the taser were supposed to be short lived, with no long-term adverse affect on your assailant, allowing her adequate time to retreat to safety.

WAY TOO COOL! Long story short, I bought the devise and brought it home. I loaded 2 AAA batteries in the darn thing and pushed the button. Nothing?!? I was disappointed. I learned, however, that if I pushed the button AND pressed it against a metal surface at the same time; I'd get the blue arc of electricity darting back and forth between the prongs. AWESOME!!! Unfortunately, I have yet to explain to Julie what that burn spot is on the face of her microwave.

OK, so I was home alone with this new toy, thinking to myself that it couldn't be all that bad with only 2 AAA batteries, right? There I sat in my recliner, my cat Gracie looking on intently (trusting little soul) while I was reading the directions and thinking that I really needed to try this thing out on a flesh and blood moving target. I must admit, I thought about zapping Gracie (for a fraction of a second) and thought better of it. She is such a sweet cat. But, if I was going to give this thing to my wife to protect herself against a mugger, I did want some assurance that it would work as advertised. Am I wrong??

So there I sat in a pair of shorts and a tank top with my reading glasses perched delicately on the bridge of my nose, directions in one hand and taser in the other. The directions said that a one-second burst would shock and disorient your assailant; a two-second burst was supposed to cause muscle spasms and a major loss of bodily control; a three-second burst would purportedly make your assailant flop on the ground like a fish out of water. Any burst longer than three seconds would be wasting the batteries.

All the while, I'm looking at this little devise measuring about 5" long, less than 3/4 " in circumference; pretty cute really and loaded with 2 itsy, bitsy AAA batteries, thinking to myself, "No possible way!" What happened next is almost beyond description, but I'll do my best...

I'm sitting there alone, Gracie looking on with her head cocked to one side as to say, "Don't do it moron", reasoning that a one second burst from such a tiny little ole thing couldn't hurt all that bad. I decided to give myself a one second burst, just of the heck of it. I touched the prongs to my naked thigh, punched the button and HOLY MOTHER OF.....WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION.....WHAT THE HELL!?!?!?!?

I'm pretty sure Jessie Ventura ran in through the side door, picked me up in the recliner, then body slammed us both on the carpet, over and over and over again. I vaguely recall waking up on my side in the fetal position, with tears in my eyes, body soaking wet, both nipples on fire, private parts nowhere to be found, with my left arm tucked under my body in the oddest position and tingling in my legs?!?! The cat was making meowing sounds I had never heard before, clinging to a picture frame hanging above the fireplace, obviously in an attempt to avoid getting slammed by my body flopping all over the living room.

NOTE: If you ever feel compelled to 'mug' yourself with a taser, CAUTION: There is not such thing as a one second burst when you zap yourself.

IT HURT LIKE HELL!!!!!

A minute or so later ( I can't be sure, as time was a relative thing at that point), I collected my wits (what little I had left), sat up and surveyed the living room.

My bent reading glasses were on the mantel of the fireplace. The recliner was upside down and about 8 feet or so from where it originally was. My triceps, right thigh and both nipples were still twitching. My face felt like it had been shot up with Novocain, and my bottom lip weighed 88 lbs. I had no control over the drooling.

Apparently I pooped on myself, but was too numb to know for sure and my sense of smell was gone. I saw a faint smoke cloud above my head which I believe came from my hair.
P.S. My wife loved the gift and now regularly threatens me with it."

WHAT?!?!?!

Last night was our Relief Society Christmas Party. I heard that George Durrant was coming to speak to us after the meal. That in itself was convincing enough for me to plan on attending. Sunday, the Relief Society President stopped by to see if I would make a cake to bring. I was thrilled to be asked!
Well, I delivered the cake and then went to the cultural hall. It was beautifully decorated. There was soft music playing in the background and the company was delightful! They served a 5 course meal that would compare to any 5 star restaurant. A lot of effort had been put into the evening and it showed!
Then the moment of truth, the guest speaker. I remember as a teenager listening to Brother Durrant speak and being so inspired. I guess my hopes were raised a little too high!
He rambled for a little while and then sat down. The two things that stood out about his talk was that when he was little, and only got tinker toys for Christmas, his parents told him to appreciate what he received because kids in MAPLETON and Delta had far less than he did! OUCH! If we would have been in Mapleton, I would have chalked it up to dry humor, but this was in Provo! I guess us old Mapletonians rate right up there with the starving children in Africa!
Then he admonished the women to take care of their husbands because they needed the support-Agreed- but then he said, "I guess you don't need the support like your husbands do!" WHAT?!? I thought a marriage was a partnership, not slavery!
Maybe he should have retired from public speaking a while ago! I'm sure I will find the humor in this in the near future, but as for now, I'm a little disappointed!

Words to Live by Alec - Good Idea/Bad Idea

Good idea: kissing a loved one

Bad idea: kissing a total stranger

Today's Problems Are Tomorrow's Funny Stories

I have been told that you need to love people where they are and not judge them just because they are not as mature or advanced as you. Well with that thought, I have discovered something. I am like a 2 year old!

Last night, I had to get my piano to a gig. (It's just a neighborhood band, but it's fun!) RB left his trailer in my driveway so I could use it to haul. Paul wasn't home and Alec was at work. So having the 2 year old mentality that I have, I knew I could 'Do it myself'. I put the hitch on my car and then picked up the trailer to attach it onto the hitch. When I moved it forward, it didn't stop. My hand was smashed between the trailer and the car. And what did I do? (After swearing up a storm) I cried! It hurt and I was embarrassed that I couldn't do it. And talk about timing?!?! I was supposed to perform in less that an hour!


Thank heavens for wonderful neighbors. I went down to Bruners and ask Dave for help. Of course, between he and his family, they took care of me and I made it to the gig, complete with an ice pack for my injured hand. Because it was my left hand, and we have a great bass guitar player, we made it through the gig just fine.


Now as I sit here reflecting on the night, it's kind of funny. Can you imagine a 51 year old lady standing at your door crying? I'm sure if any other neighbors were watching, my swearing and crying dance was entertaining!


I'm sure there are no broken bones and in a couple of weeks, I'll be good as new. And much like a 2 year old, I'm happy again and dancing!

I Tag...from Michelle

I am a sucker for a tag! Please keep this going!

3 Joys:
-When my kids are together and laughing!
-Playing in a band.
-Snuggling in my Down Comforter and Down Pillow.

3 Fears:
-Causing pain or suffering.
-The economy.
-Being forgotten.

3 Goals:
-A healthy 120 lb. body
-Get out of debt
-Family History

3 Current Obsessions/Collections:
-Stand up Comedians
-Music
-‘Spoon Me’ yogurt

3 Surprising Facts:
-I got an ‘A’ in my computer class!
-I loathe any type of fighting.
-It scares me to perform. I always get stage fright!

I tag … Melanie, Patty, Kim, Lexie, and Jesica

Some Of My Blessings

One would think that after 51 years of life, you would know how you react to certain situations. Not so for me!

For the last 2+ years, I have been serving in the Primary Presidency of our ward. Being called was a shock! I wondered what sane parent would want me influencing their child! I accepted that call mainly because I have such a high regard for Willow, the president. I have always thought that she was an outstanding person and was excited to get to know her better. And who knows, maybe her 'awesomeness' would rub off!

A couple of weeks ago, we were released. My first reaction was, "Whew, that's over!" The first week back after being released, I found myself glansing around the chapel, looking for the primary kids. I was tickled when Gracy waved at me and Timo huggged me along with others. I really love and miss those kids! Then the weekly fix of Willow, Wendy and Laurel was gone! Even though I see them, I miss the interaction!

I just realized that I have 2 + years of working with some of heavens finest spirits! I am so blessed!

Word To Live By Alec - Moral Of The Day

If you can't say

anything nice,

you're probably at

the Ice Capades.

Words to Live by Alec - Shopping with Mom

Alec is getting a projector - you know, one that you can show on the wall and watch TV. He is trying to set up his room so he can watch it in his bedroom. I offered a white table cloth for the screen, but it just wasn't thick enough. I then suggested that we go to the fabric store and get something.
He met me at JoAnn's at noon and we found some white felt on sale. Since he has never been in a fabric store before, I figured it would be a good teaching moment. We went to the cutting table and a VERY cute young girl helped us. She asked, "How many yards do you want?" I was silent, and so was he, finally he spoke up and said, "3 yards." Trying to be friendly, she then ask, "What are you making out of this?" Once again, silence. So I chimed in, "He's making a pair of one-sies. You know, the kind with feet in them. He gets so cold." Her jaw dropped - Alec's face went BRIGHT red and I began to laugh!
Instead of shooting me (like I know he wanted to) he just looked at me and said, "Good one, Mom!"

What a Fun Week!

OK, I'm dancing again. I just had a moment (or 2) that I had to share! I guess a couple of you have felt like I do. To the rest of you, I'm jealous! I'm still hanging in there with this diet. If nothing else, I am spending less money on food, so if I don't lose weight, maybe I'm gain some money!

I haven't been to a theater for over 5 years, then in the last week, I have gone 3 times! FUN!!! Wednesday, I went to see "Aida" at the Hale Center Theater (with the Primary Presidency). It was AMAZING! Friday, Paul and I went to the Pioneer Playhouse and saw "Noises Off". Then, last night for family night, everyone but Alec and Graden went and saw Grant Sumsion in a variety show at the Valley Center Playhouse in Lindon. He and his brother did a GREAT rendition of "Who's on first". Except for the eating part, it's been a GREAT week!

P.S. I am down 3 lbs. OK, it's a start!

I Don't Feel Much Like Dancing

I am so sick and tired of reading all of these diets tips that say, “If you do this, you will lose 20 lbs. a year.” Ie: park far away from the entrance, take the stairs, drink skim milk, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, use fat free mayo, drink lots of water. I do all of these things - daily-, and have been for years. According to these experts, I should be down at least 70 lbs, so why do I still weight over 200 lbs? I get so impatient with people who say, just change a couple of bad habits and you can be skinny like me! If losing weight was so damned easy, wouldn’t we have more skinny people?
I appreciate the show “The Biggest Loser” because they show the people pushing, sweating, sacrificing and really working hard at it. This is hard work! This is constant work. This is not only a physical challenge, but mental and emotional as well. This is not a task that you can do for a couple of hours a day and call it good, it is 24/7. There is no relief from the stress, and when you go for a break, you have blown your progress and have to start over again!
I talked a woman that had a gastric bypass. She said that she cried everyday for a year because she had to give up her best friend, food! I feel her pain! When your joy, comfort and security is food, and you have to give that up – THAT SUCKS! THIS BETTER BE WORTH IT!!!!!

Sweetheart Tag

Sweetheart Tag (From Celeste)

The rules are as follows:

Each person answers questions about their sweethearts. At the end of the post, the person tags 6 people and posts their names. Then, go to their blog and leave them a comment letting them know they have been tagged.

What is your husbands name? Hilton Paul Matthews

How long have you guys been married? 24 years and 9 months.

How long did you date? We dated for almost 3 months and were engaged 3 months.

How old is he? Fifty two-riffic!

Who is taller? Paul but not by much!

Who can sing best? Paul for sure! He has had YEARS of instruction and practice!

Who is smarter? It depends on the subject! Paul is smarter in some ways, but I have got in beat in others! (Don’t tell him – he won’t believe you!)

Who does laundry? Me and the Dry Cleaners!

Who pays the bills? Me! That’s one of the things in which I am smarter! (Once again, don’t tell him!)

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I do. His choice!

Who mows the lawn? Alec does! Once I mowed the lawn for Paul and he was not happy about it!

Who cooks dinner? Me, which is too bad because Paul is a WONDERFUL cook!

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Me. Paul thinks he’s NEVER wrong! (That's why he is a.k.a. Paul Perfect)

Who kissed who first? Paul kissed me first, but I took over from there!

Who wears the pants? Paul likes to think he does! (Once again…)

I tag Haley, Debra, Joni, Angie, Cassie and Patty

The Daily Giggle

I have decided to start another subcategory to my blog-The Daily Giggle. These are stories that people have sent to me on line. Whereas "Words To Live By Alec" are based on actual experiences, "The Daily Giggle" may or may not be true! They are just stories that made me giggle!

Gratitute

Do you realize just how blessed I am? I have a husband who I love and loves me and supports me mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially. I have 3 healthy, happy children. I have 2 perfect sons-in-law. I have a beautiful, warm home, a nice car that runs, a job that gives me small challenges as well as peaceful down time. I have food, hobbies, modern technology, and the gospel. I can read, write, play the piano, organ and even carry a tune! I have fun friends who REALLY care! I have an incredible extended family not only in numbers, but also in spirit. I will never be alone! I live in a neighborhood of people who are the salt of the earth! I have great examples to look up to in family and friends. I have wonderful memories as well as a bright future! I have relatively good health. I can walk, see, hear, smell, taste and feel. I feel, not only physically, but emotionally I feel very deeply, that brings me much joy and pain. I cry freely and easily and I am getting old enough that I am beginning to be OK with that.
I’m just feeling very grateful and want to share my joy.

I Voted

Yes, I went and voted. I really should be proud, but I'm afraid it feels like a useless act. Yes, I know, what if everyone didn't vote...yada, yada. Once again, I feel a story coming on!

When I was younger, we used to sleep out. We used to take a sleeping bag outside and fall asleep under the stars. As I would lay and ponder the universe, I would feel so small and so insignificant! It seemed so over-whelming that it would actually creep me out! I felt so minuscule!

That is kind of what voting is to me. Oh, I will continue to vote, mostly because it is the thing to do! I will also encourage my friends and relatives to do the same. My only redeeming thought is, if I vote, I have the privilege to complain about politicians.

Making It

I was talking with my daughter about spiritual things. She told me she was worried because in her words, "What if I don't make it because I'm not good enough?" If there is one thing that I am quite sure of, is that I am going to ' make it'. For some reason, I have not had that worry. I know I'm not perfect and that I make dumb mistakes, but I also believe that you are judged on the intent of your heart, and in some cases, that state of your mind! I believe the atonement works and that repentance and forgiveness is a gift. I guess I base my beliefs on experiences that I have had. When I think of a loving Heavenly Father, the following story comes to mind.

When I was a little girl, my mom taught me how to dust, get a clean rag and wipe things down. We then went into the bathroom for more learning. She told me that wiping things down, like dusting, makes it clean, but if you want something REALLY clean, you would use Comet. We then cleaned the bathroom.
Days later, I was thinking, what could I do to help my mom. I noticed that her bedroom set was dusty. I wanted to REALLY clean it, so I got the Comet, sprinkled it on her wood furniture, wet my rag, and began to clean. As I scrubbed, I noticed it didn't look cleaner, in fact, it looked worse than when I started. I felt like I had done something wrong, so I left my project and went out to play.
When mom saw what was done, she lovingly took me in the bedroom and explained that Comet was only for the bathroom and kitchen and not the bedroom. She still loved me.

As I grew up, I reflected on that experience and was AMAZED that she didn't beat the living tar out of me! I had ruined the finish on her only piece of new furniture she had every owned up to that point! It took years for her to save the money to have it refinished.
I compare that to my Heavenly Father's love. I'll bet he watches us make mistakes and shakes his head A LOT! And yet, I can see him lovingly know that we were doing the best we knew at that moment. Like my mom, he still loves us, forgives us and hopes that we learn from our experiences. I think we all will 'make it' if we just keep trying!

The Illusion of Control

I am surprised by what is considered to be 'control'. When I hear people talk about their accomplishments or gifts, I often hear the phrase, “You just have to want it bad enough.” So wanting is the only prerequisite of achieving? I think not! If that is all it took, every team would win their game, everyone would be healthy and prosperous, you get the picture. Granted, persistence, hard work, knowledge, these are things that should not be ignored. But do we really have the control over all aspects of our lives?

When Alec was in 1st grade, his class went on a field trip to the canyons. Mr. Chapman took them on a nature walk, pointing out different foliage, wildlife, and the beauties of nature. When we got back into the bus, I noticed that Alec had a grasshopper sitting on his finger. This was amazing to me, because they usually don’t stay in one place for very long, yet this grasshopper seemed to be content to stay with Alec. (I did, however, notice that it was missing a leg.) His class mates were so intrigued. They crowded around him to see this treasure. One friend asked him how he got him to stay on his finger. Alec told him, “I trained him!” --The illusion of control--. Alec was naive enough to think that he had control over the grasshopper. I have asked him about this incident lately and he told me, he really thought that he trained him. After that grasshopper died, he found others, removed their leg and then couldn’t understand why they weren’t ‘trained’.

I am intrigued by the paradox of agency and yet God being in control. I heard it once said that we are in charge of the ingredients of controlling our lives, but God is in charge of the outcome. What are your thoughts?

Somethings About Me

Who are your last 4 texts from?


Weather bug, Haley, Melanie and Judy

What's your middle name?

Graves

Whats your current favorite color?

Yellow










Does your crush like you back?



Oh yeah! He wants me BAD!





What color shirt are you wearing?





Blue






If you were going on a Reality TV show, which one would it be?



I would LOVE to do “The Swan”




Are you imagining anyone naked right now?

No, are you?




Ever had a near death experience?


I felt like it was! When I was river rafting and thrown into Kahuna.
I didn’t know “Lunch Counter” was around the corner and it kept swallowing me up! I was a little traumatized!






Something you do a lot?


Walk, Play Solitaire, Laundry, Watch TV






How old will you be in 12 months?

Fifty two-riffic








Do you want to see somebody right now?

I am really missing Jackie (Buhler) Vernon






Who would you do anything for?

My Family – Immediate and Extended!











Who is your hero?


Mother Teresa






What's your biggest fear?

Hitting someone in my car!

Speak any other languages?

Ya zeker! Dutch







Whats your favorite smell?



New Dollys





Do you like to sleep naked?

Heck No! I chafe!




Have you ever kissed in the rain?

Not that I can remember

Do you like rain?




Yes I do!







What are you thinking about right now?



What I need to get done after work today.





What’s your favorite memory?

Performing with the Rock Band!





What are you listening to?



Joe Cocker – “You Are So Beautiful”






Have you ever been kissed?

Oh Yeah!



Who was the last person you yelled at?



Chimi! Ok, he’s not a person, but he barks TOO MUCH!





Who is the last person you said I love you to?

Paul


Who is the last person that made you smile?

Alec

Word To Live By Alec - Missions Plans

Alec is really quite a modest person, if you call boxers modest.

When he went to Catalina, he spent the entire weekend in his wet suit or boxers and a hoodie. That is how he lives around the house! Not necesssarily the wet suit, but definately boxers and a tee shirt.

When Glenn and Amy were here, they were talking about his mission. They asked, "What if you are called to Alaska?"

He said, "I'll take Jack (his Huskey) as my companion.

They asked, "What if you go to Guatelama?" His answer? "No pants!"

Word To Live By Alec - Good Idea/Bad Idea

Good idea - drinking milk right from the carton.

Bad idea - drinking milk right from the cow.

Be Kind To Everyone You Meet - We Are All Fighting a Battle.

In the Old Testament, the people were taught, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. In my younger days, this seemed to give me silent permission to be mean to anyone who was mean to me. It made sense, if you hit me, I get to hit you back - If you talk trash about me, I can talk trash about you. To me, that is an example of fighting fire with fire. Well, I have found out that when you fight fire with fire, you just get a big, destructive sweltering fire! This never brought me peace. I then adopted the theory of fighting fire with water.

As I awkwardly tried to practice this theory, I ran across Steven Covey’s 7 Habit that seemed to help describe this in a more eloquent way, “Seek to understand, then be understood.” I find this to be much more challenging, yet in the long run, much more rewarding.

When someone is in your face, literally screaming and accusing you, it’s difficult to look at them calmly, realizing that their anger is not about you, but about some inadequacy they feel, or weakness in themselves that is over-whelming to them.
In general, people are most impatient with other people when it involves their own personal weaknesses. When you are guilty of an action or thought, suddenly it’s everywhere you look! I can’t tell you how many times I have heard of someone in the news that condemns others about illegal or immoral actions only to find out later that they are guilty of the same, if not worse, action.

What you notice in others, seem to be what you are judging about yourself.

I'm always curious about the people I notice. I know that Haley notices thin people. Kellie, do you notice all of the pregnant people? I would like to say that I notice the well-balanced, secure, happy, beautiful people. Yeah, that's it!

That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Word To Live By Alec - On Scripture References

When the kids were finally old enough to be left on their own, Paul and I went out for a needed date. As we were sitting in the restaurant, Pauls cell phone rang, it was Melanie. She asked, "Alec wants to know if he can go to Joes." Paul asked, "Has he finished his work?" Melanie turned to Alec and asked, "Did you finish your work?" He answered, "Yes." Melanie relayed the message, "Yes".

Paul asked, "Did he really finish, every jot and tiddle?" Melanie turned to Alec and asked, "Did you use the bathroom?"

That's when it made us realize, we need to do more scripture study as a family!

The Difference Between Men and Women, EVERYTHING!

President Uchdorf spoke at the Women's Conference about the difference between men and women. His example was basically, when a woman cooks a meal, it's a beautiful, delicious spread, yet she still criticises her culinary expertise. He said, when ever he makes fried eggs and toast, he pats himself on the back and is very proud! I got a big kick out of that! How is that like my life?!?!
I got up Saturday morning and began cleaning. I started laundry, unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher, pulled weeds in the front flower bed and scrubbed both bathrooms. I sat down for a minute when Haley came over to visit and she said, "What have you been doing?" My first thought was, "Nothing." because the house still needed vacuuming, dusting, mopping, window washing, and don't even get me started on the yard work. When I started thinking about it, I had done A LOT! I ignored the rest of the house and began to scrapbook! Yeah, I paid for not finishing, later, but I felt so masculine! I had patted myself on the back and celebrated!

Last week, Elliot gave me a book to read. It is called "Dave Barry's Complete Guide to Guys". Evidently, Pres. Uchdorf barely scratched the surface. At one point, while reading it, I had to close the book for a minute. I was laughing so hard, I began to cry!

He not only wrote about the difference between men and women, but also between men and guys. In his book he made a "Stimulus-Response Comparison Chart" He states, "if a woman sees and untamed river in the wilderness and woman response would be to contemplate its beauty. A typical Man response would be to build a dam. A typical Guy response would be to see who can pee the farthest off the dam." It just gets better from there!

I am surprised how I, surrounded by boys growing up, still ended up with such feminine characteristics and Paul, surrounded by women, still ended up with not only men traits, but guy traits as well. I guess it just proves that it is innate! It's our DNA! It just proves to me the importance of Psychologists and Counselors. As long as there are two genders, we will ALWAYS need counseling!

This Story Is For The Birds!

Last night, Mom and Dad stopped by to say, "Hi." It was so nice to sit and visit. By the time they left, we were all belly laughing! I NEED to share!
Dad said that he, Darin, Rocky, Mitchell and Jason went to get some trusses. They had a HUGE load and ended up driving 40 mile per hour down the freeway! To make a long story short, they ended up pulling over on the University Avenue exit and waiting for Tannis to drive behind them with her safty blinkers on.
As he sat there, suddenly an owl flew into his window and scared the $#!*% out of him! Of course, Dad, Rocky, Mitchell and Jason got a good laugh out of it.
Mom said that she was reading the paper the other day and found where the BLM found an injured owl and nursed him back to health. They released it back into the wild just a day before this happened.
I just got an email from Darin that said, "I know nothing and have no recolection of any owl."
Does this ring a bell?
You draw your own conclusions!

Words to Live by Alec - On Taking Tests Part 2

Because of popular demand, I need to add to and clarify this post. First of all, no, the teacher didn't give him credit for the African Wild Coast answer.
He didn't get credit for this one either - "Who is Margaret Jayne?" Alec's answer, "I don't know. No one has introduced us!" He did, however get credit for this question - "What happened to the SS Wrath?" His answer, "It sank."
Teachers have a special place in heaven. They rate right up there with Nursery Leaders and Scout Masters.

Tag! (from Brandie)

I am: nothing short of amazing!
I think: about my family almost constantly.
I know: change is the only constant
I want: financial security and a healthy 128 lb. body!
I dislike: oysters!
I miss: carefree days!
I fear: for the economy
I feel: deeply and passionately
I hear: beautiful music (my i-pod is playing)
I smell: the cool, crisp air
I crave: Pepsi (lately)
I cry: Freely and often
I usually: am smiling
I search: for universal truths
I wonder: what the future will bring
I regret: my self doubt and loathing
I love: my family, silent snow falls w/huge snow flakes & watermelon
I care: about the under dog
I always: think about what I am going to eat!
I worry: about Paul
I am not: a pet lover
I remember: The comfort and security of my father’s lap.
I believe: t hat people are basically good
I dance: daily – rain or shine!
I sing: either out loud or in my heart constantly!
I don't always: make my bed
I argue: when I’m tired
I write: for therapy
I win: at Solitaire A LOT!
I lose: my shoes!
I wish: I was TOTALLY out of debt
I listen: attentively
I don't understand: what is so important about the blame game!
I can usually be found: at home or at work
I am scared: when I drive! (You should be, too!)
I need: love and attention
I forget: past failures
I am happy: that I finally figured it out! (forgetting past failures)
I tag: YOU!!!

Pain is Inevitable - Misery is Optional

I would love to take credit for that insight, but I can't. Paul and I heard Hyrum Smith speak (No, it wasn't a seance, he is the co-founder of Franklin Planner). He was asked to speak to some of the victims of the 9-11 tragedy. Right after he began, someone from the audience shouted out, "After everything we have witnessed and lost, are you going to tell us that every thing is rosy and to smile?" He replied with that thought - Pain is Inevitable, misery is optional.

That message is so powerful to me, that I think I will never forget it. I feel like I have had a good share of trials that have left their mark. 'They' say that time heals all wounds. I say that some wounds may never heal, but as time goes by, you develop a callous that allows you to function.

There were times in my life that I didn't think I would ever be the same. I even got to the point where I thought, 'Christ's time in the garden and on the cross was only hours long, then his pain was over. ' My excruciating pain seemed to go on for weeks, months and in some things, years. (Yeah, I was immature and short sighted. I have since BEGGED for forgiveness.)

When I heard that thought, something dawned on me. When it was time to put the pain behind me and move on, in some cases, I was unwilling to let go of the pity. I had become so comfortable in my misery, I didn't realize that I was stuck. The pain became manageable, but I couldn't get past the misery.

WOW! It is so liberating to realize that I can let go of the misery.

No one gets through this life unscathed - but many get by with smiles on their face. That is me! Oh, you will see tears, but there will always be a smile, kind of like the rainbow after, and sometimes, during the rain.

There it is again, the idea of dancing in the rain. I think I see a reoccurring theme here!

Words to Live by Alec - On Taking Tests

Alec informed me that he has learned how to take tests. If you don't know the answer, just make it up anyway! For example, one of the questions was, "Tell me about the worst cyclone ever recorded in history." He answered, "The wind blew and it messed things up." He actually got credit for that!

Another questions was, "Why is a coast in Africa called the "Wild Coast"?" He answered, "Too much partying."
He's a freakin' genius!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Today is my mom's birthday. She is such an amazing woman. I know everyone thinks that of their mom, but I think I can prove my point! She tops the 'Amazing' list!
She has a strong spirit. Even as a young child, she knew the importance of the gospel in her life. She would attend church weekly, sometimes alone. She has a strong testimony and lives it daily.
She knew she wanted an eternal marriage, so she married a man that is as close to perfect as you can get on this earth. Together they raised 9 children. WOW!
I have often referred to her as 'Saint Shirley' and believe me, she has earned that title. This woman has a direct line to heaven. Her motherly instincts are almost psychic. She knows when her children need her and what to do about it. You can feel that the Lord is at her side almost all of the time.
She not only taught the importance of hard work and education, but she is a living example of it. She was up every morning before the crack of dawn to herd her kids out to do their chores, cook a HOT breakfast, have family prayer (on our knees - of course), read scriptures then help every one off to their various destinations. She washed 4 or 5 loads of laundry DAILY, cooked, cleaned, and taught a plethora of piano lessons. She did this for over 40 years! She was never idle. Even when she would visit with the neighbors, she had a big bowl of beans to snap, or something similar. When the chore was done, so was her visiting and back to work she went. If you were to sneak into her room at night, you could always catch her reading. Not just any book, but a self improvement or religious book. She is always trying to better herself.
She shares her talent of music wherever she goes. She has probably influenced thousands of people with her music. Between her hundreds of piano students and her various church callings, she spread the love of music everywhere. We were not in the car more than 10 minutes before we were all singing some silly song. Everyone of her children have a deep appreciation and love for music because of her.
She is a beautiful woman - inside and out! She is tough as nails yet as feminine as a flower. She can hunt and fish, pack a gun and rough it with the best of them and yet, she still carries herself like royalty. She always was trying to teach us manners and etiquette as well as gutting a deer and starting a fire.
She makes the best of every situation. She is always looking for the joy in life and always finding it. If there was something unpleasant to do, she makes a game of it.
Our home was always open to anyone at anytime. She is giving and loving. It doesn't matter if you are related or if you are one of the many who call her your 2nd mom or grandma, you are family when you are around her. It is not very often that you visit her home without leaving with a bag of peaches or a loaf of homemade bread or some other home made treat.
She loves deeply, laughs freely, gives unselfishly and cares from the bottom of her heart.
She has made such an impact in so many people's lives. She is truly and 'elect woman'.
Happy Birthday and we're looking forward to many more happy birthdays.

My Own True Love

Even though the calendar says Wednesday, it is my Tuesday! I stayed home Monday. I just didn't feel good! I had slept through the weekend and thought that would let my body heal itself. One thing about aging, you don't seem to bounce back as fast as you used to! The 24 hour flu can take me 4 - 5 days to recover! Enough belly-aching! LOL.

Lately, my thoughts have been on loving and respecting myself. I have usually sought for acceptance through others. If everyone else loves it, I love it. If everyone else accepts is, I accept it. If I am receiving praise from others, I must be doing well. My self esteem was based mostly on outside influences. It wasn't until a couple of weeks ago that I realized that others only love and cherish me to the extent that I love and cherish myself. What a shocker! Luckily, I have been surrounded by mostly good people who look for the good in others. I appreciate their love and support, but always wondered why I was never put first in their lives. Well, to begin with, I was never first in my life. Don't get me wrong, I am a firm believer in service and giving, but there gets to be a time when you have nothing to give, and wonder what happened! In the spirit of Stephen Covey, if your saw isn't sharp, you're not a very useful tool! But using the same analogy, what good is a sharp saw, if it is just sitting in the shed! There is balance!
I have been trying to be perfect to be accepted, and when I fall short, I go for the sympathy. This is so self destructive! When you go for the 'poor me' method, you bring yourself below your potential. The sympathy card may get you a hand out or a pat on the head, but in the long run, you haven't gained anything until you pull yourself up and work through your challenges.
This is where the self worth begins. I heard someone say, "Do something hard, everyday, and see what happens." This person chose to take a cold shower to 'toughen' him up. Hey, whatever works!
I LOVE and appreciate my sweet angel, Julia, who sent me the story of finding your own true love. She said she found out that her true love was herself. What a perfect love story! I found the same. As I love myself, so do others, just as deeply and perfectly as I love myself. And it works the other way, too. The more I love and appreciate myself, the more I see the beauty and miracle in others. What a GREAT discovery!

Isn't she a angel?

Families Are Forever - Or It Just Seems That Way!

What a wonderful weekend! We went camping with family and friends at Bennion. There were probably 60 - 80 people there! It wasn't quiet, but it was fun!

The weather was very nice, which was lucky for us, because as Dad and I put up the tent, I noticed that the rain flap wasn't in where it should have been. As Paul and I went to bed Friday night and woke up Saturday morning, we had a beautiful view of the sky and trees through the screen at the top of the tent. Graden and Haley set up their tent close to ours. We had a GREAT place!

We had heard the forecast, that it was supposed to rain on Sunday. We were fine, because we were planning on going home Sunday morning. Well, Sunday morning, at about 5:00 a.m. Graden shook our tent and said, "You guys, it's raining." It's a good thing he did that because Paul and I were out COLD! When he woke us up, we felt our blankets and they were WET!

We quickly threw our stuff in the back of my car. Graden said, "Come sleep with us. We have plenty of room." WHAT A TROOPER! That was WAY on and beyond the call of "Son-in-law-hood".

I think the thing that really made me realize that he is truly one of the family, was not only that unselfish act, but as we settled in, out of the blue, he ask, "If you have a bee in your hand, what do you have in your eye?" Oh no! One of the LAST things I want to worry about at 5:00 a.m. in the rain is bug bites! He answered his own question, "Beauty." "What?" I asked. He said, " You know, Beauty is in the eye of the bee-holder." WHAT A GROANER! Yeah, he's about as off the wall as the rest of us!

I love you Graden!

Words to Live by Alec - Sports Announcers

Olympic fever hit the Matthews house hold. Day by day we watched the athletes give their all and in admiration, we cheered them on! Their dedication and discipline was inspiring! We are sure that everyone had the same goal - give your all, do you best and if fate allows, bring home the gold!
We were watching the 400 yd Mens Sprint. When the American runners finished their race,
some of them graced the media a brief interview. The announcer grabbed LaShawn Merrit after
his AMAZING run and ask, "What was your plan?" His answer sounded a lot like a politician - I wish I could remember his exact answer, but basically it was something like,
"I did my thing -was in my groove" - something along that line.

I turned to Alec and asked, "What did he just say? I didn't hear anything of importance." Alec said, "Well, with a question like that, what do you expect? 'My plan is to run fast and win'. "

I guess that is what Lashawn said. He and Alec must think alike!

+ = brilliance!
P.S. I miss you! Hurry home safely!