December Window Display Pictures

Here are pictures from my window display at the Children's Library. I had to tear it down for the new month and it was kind of sad, especially since it took minutes to take down. I did keep the cute stockings that my sister made for me - they are so dang cute! Farewell to my display...

Working and Scrapbooking

Had to work, so I slept at my own house for the rest of the week. I had the house to myself, so I caught up on some movies and just lounged around. It was quite nice. Friday, I did go back to Mom and Dad's to hang out and also work on a project I started on Christmas. Last Conference, I spent the time pulling out pictures from the last old albums for the years 1986-1988. I am putting them onto acid-free pages. It's fun seeing those pictures and reliving the memories. We don't see those pictures as often, just because they were in those old albums and were falling apart.

Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella

Christmas Eve:
I had a busy day with lots of last minute errands to take care of. Good thing I didn't have to work! I was even crazy enough to go to the post office to pick up some stamps for a bill I had to get in the mail. I'm glad I got your package off before the rush! Anna and I planned a get together for Christmas Eve, consisting of seeing the lights at Temple Square then coming to my house and eating take&bake pizza from Litza's. Well, later that afternoon it started snowing pretty heavily. David and Sheila came over to my place to give me a ride and we called and asked opinions about changing plans for the evening. We bagged seeing the lights, which was too bad because I haven't seen yet, and just coming over for pizza and games. It was so fun having everyone over at my house. All my roommates were gone, so I had the house to myself. We played a new version of Balderdash and it was soo funny! It has categories besides the definitions - including: movie plots, initials, laws, and famous people. Boy, we just get laughing with some of these answers. The best one was when we had to make up movie plots for the title, "The Cow and I". You can imagine where some when with this. Some plots similar to "The King and I", some had plots about Johhny Lingo, Mom wrote one about a gastric-bypass patient and the man who loved her, and I wrote something silly about Tarzan and a cow, etc. Well, the real answer was about a french lieutenant escaping with a cow used for distraction. We renamed the movie, "Le Moo em Mua". Too funny. Well, the night came to a close and everyone left to get ready for Santa Claus' coming. I packed up a bag and went over to Mom and Dad's for the night.

Christmas Day:
Silly enough I had a hard time staying asleep - maybe the child in me was still excited about Christmas coming. Mom got us up after 7 and Dad almost made Andrew and I walk out backwards to the living. I told him that I was almost 30 and I wasn't going to walk out backwards anymore! (hehe) Andrew got a cool remote control airplane and I got a new sleeping bag. I was excited about that! Soon after looking at Santa gifts we got to talk to Jonathan! That was soo fun! It was good hearing your voice - I felt guilty about talking too much to Jonathan because I wanted to hear him talk! Talking with Elder Jonathan got us returned missionaries reminiscing about our own Christmas in the mission. I had two and both were fun, but the most homesick day of my mission. That's why it's important to keep busy and visit members and whatnot, to keep yourself from getting blue and depressed - like Elvis Prestley. After talking to you - we had breakfast and delved into the stack of presents. I got some fun things, including: a red fullsize maglight, Pride and Prejudice piano music and soundtrack CD, a candle warmer from David & Sheila, The 3 NeverEnding Story movies. I was very happy about my stash. Soon it was time to go over to Grammy's for the annual party. Grammy had loads of good food and everyone from Duke family was there with all our bunch. I have been working on collecting family history names and ordinance information on the Missall and Jeppson side. I decided to print out a copy for Grammy - since it is her ancestors. I put the pedigree charts and family groups sheets into one binder and I think it came together pretty nice. Grammy was pleased with the final result and I'm glad. It was a good day over all and I was pleased with the results.

Christmas Carol - "Scrooge"

Bob Cratchit and his cute kids...

Horrors of Christmas

This is just too funny - check out some of the Santa faces as well! (hehe)

The Way I Am

The Way I Am
by: Ingrid Michaelson
http://www.ingridmichaelson.com/



If you were falling, then I would catch you.
You need a light, I'd find a match.

Cuz I love the way you say good morning.
And you take me the way I am.

If you are chilly, here take my sweater.
Your head is aching, I'll make it better.

Cuz I love the way you call me baby.
And you take me the way I am.

I'd buy you Rogaine if you start losing all your hair.
Sew on patches to all you tear.

Cuz I love you more than I could ever promise.
And you take me the way I am.

You take me the way I am.
You take me the way I am.

Biographies

Work is going well - as always. This week I didn't have Homework Help, so I got more time at the Reference desk and also more time to work on some of my projects. I have revamped the magazine labels - and I found pictures of original logos from the various magazines to use instead of just typing their titles in a Word Document. I even got to print in color - so they look way cute. I now have to work on my assigned section - the biographies. I just got reminded that besides shelf-reading, I also need to start weeding out old books. Man, that is going to be a big job!

Getting a Date

I bought this book from Deseret Book called "An LDS girl's guide to getting a date". Now, I'm not that desperate - but it looked like a little cute book and it was written by a BYU Professor. So far it's been pretty funny, and informative. Any way - I've been trying some of the techniques
(Animation, Closeness and Touch) on this guy in my ward. His name is Jim and he's a nerdy kind of guy - and he's pretty shy. I've talked to him a few times and he's perking up. My roommate noticed his attentiveness towards me and told me later that she thought he might have a crush on me - hmm, you never know! I'll keep you updated on any further developments!

December Window Display

Work is great as always. I have a core group of kids that come to my Homework help program each day. Actually, this week I had some new kids start coming, including a set of boy/girl twins from Turkey. We get to help with their ESL work. It's fun developing friendships with these kids - and I even have a few who come into the room who don't even have homework and just want to hang out with us. Awww, they like me! They really like me! (hehe) So, I took my turn to do the window display for December. The window it quite big, probably 5 feet across and like 10 feet high and it looks out to the little patio outside. It has great light during the day. So, I decided to do a little scene from the "The Night Before Christmas". Anna helped me brainstorm the idea. It's a fireplace hearth with a fire going and three stocking hanging from the mantle. Anna made the stockings for me and they are dang cute - one is argyle, one has stripes and the last one is checkered. Above and beneath the fireplace it says, "The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.". I just finished putting the last of the words up and it turned out really cute and I've gotten lots of compliments on it. I did it! I'll take pictures to show it off - I'm proud of the finished product!

Assistant Manager?

I was talking to my boss before leaving work today and I mentioned that I heard that the Day-Riverside library had an opening for an Assistant Manager, and that someone had said that I should apply for it. Well Lisa, my boss, got excited and also said I should apply for the position. I am so nervous to do it! I requires some managerial experience, which I don't have much of, and 2 years of professional experience, which I don't have quite enough of either. Well, I'm going to apply anyway - you never know! I hear that they have quite a turnover at that branch, just because of all the kids and teens who hang out there. Lisa said I'm ideal because I have a background with children. I don't know - can you picture me being an Assistant Branch manager? My secret desire is to get a full-time promotion at my current job - but I don't know if that's a possibility. We'll see what the Lord has in store for me!

Elder Nelson

You'll never believe who came to our ward Christmas party on Monday evening. For the past two weeks they have been announcing this dinner and that this special speaker was coming, etc etc. Well, I put two and two together when I remembered that my bishop's father-in-law is Elder Russell M. Nelson. Well, I guessed right because he and his new wife were in the living room when I got to my bishop's house. I got to shake both of their hands - I wish I could remember Elder Nelson's handshake, but I was so nervous that I have now almost forgotten it. Anyway, they both spoke after dinner. Bishop introduced them, "Dad and Wendy", and told a funny story about when he was dating Elder Nelson's daughter. He was at their house, I think they were parked in the driveway and it was getting a bit late, and E. Nelson was flicking off and on the lights. Then E. Nelson came out and said to Bishop Miles, "Do you realize that you're still here?". I loved that! Sister Nelson spoke about answered prayers and Elder Nelson talked about Heavenly Father and the difference between immortality and eternal life. He used scriptures from Moses and John 17. I wish I could have taken notes - but I didn't even think to bring a notebook! It was a special evening. I guess that initially Elder Nelson declined the invitation to our Christmas dinner, saying that he doesn't usually talk at private settings like these. But, later Bishop went back and asked again, telling him that he was getting released in the new year. Elder Nelson agreed and we were all edified. Something Elder Nelson as he was closing really stuck out to me, "This is the Lord's work - I so testify..." Wow, an apostle's testimony - talk about powerful! What an opportunity! It was so surreal.

Thanksgiving and Chuck Norris

We had a low-key Thanksgiving, but I'll just add that it was great. I even made a pumpkin pie, following Grandma Hope's recipe. It was a hit - I should have made two! After stuffing ourselves silly we played games, including the Johnson's favorite: Balderdash. It's funny how much we just laugh at that game.

David introduced the Chuck Norris jokes to us. Let me share some of my favorites: (ahem)

Chuck Norris does not sleep. He waits.

Chuck Norris is currently suing NBC, claiming Law and Order are trademarked names for his left and right legs.

If Superman and The Flash were to race to the edge of space you know who would win? Chuck Norris.

Some people wear Superman pajamas. Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas.

Chuck Norris never wet his bed as a child. The bed wet itself out of fear.

When Chuck Norris was born he roundhouse kicked the doctor. Because nobody delivers Chuck Norris.

What's even more funny is that before we heard these jokes at Thanksgiving, I found a Chuck Norris shirt at Wal-Mart for Andrew that says, "There is nothing to fear but Chuck himself...", or something like that. Too funny.

Marlese's Wedding

Marlese and Nathan's wedding day

Close Encounters of the Weird Kind

Boy do I have a story for you! (hehe) Well, I met up with a friend at Institute that I knew from the Rosewood Single's Ward. His name is Matt. Well, he had a friend with him and we chatted for a few minutes and whatnot, his name is Jared - a little geeky and stinky. It turns out that his best friend is Steven Retz and he and Matt live in a big house with Steven and his wife, and another married couple. Weird! Anyway, Matt and I exchanged phone numbers and later that week he came by, with Jared, to my place and we hung out for an hour or so. Well, here's where it gets good. So, that Friday I get this call from an unknown number - which happens often with my calling - and the person was like, "Hi!" (no name was mentioned), I said, "Hi..." (awkward pause) ..."who is this?". He says, "It's me!". I reply, "Me who?" (I hate it when people do this) He responds, "It's me, Jared!" (Hmm, Jared, Jared, oh no, not That Jared!) Now, let me back up for a minute: I learned earlier that Jared is in the middle of a divorce and has a 4yr old son, Steven (after his best friend). He is also unemployed. Can you see my dilemma? He was awkward on the phone and was like, "I haven't done this for 5 years..." - so I said, "what are you trying to say?". He told me that liked me, but was in limbo right now. Aaaahh! Why me? He then went into a long discourse about his "ex"-wife and other boring things. I half-listened to the conversation as I worked on the computer. He finally let me go and I dreaded what would happened in the near future - well, I didn't have to wait long - he proceeded to call me almost every day for the next two weeks! Argg - I didn't answer any of the those calls! My friend Matt has called me a few times, I did talk to him, and he would ask about Jared. I was honest with Matt that I wasn't interested in a relationship and hoped that he would get the message to Jared. Just today Jared called while Mom and I were out and about and I ignored his call, but he left a message that gave the impression that Matt had finally talked to him. He called back later this evening and I answered this time. After some chit-chat, he finally said, "How do you feel about me?". I was excited - because I wasn't brave enough to tell him how I felt and this was my chance. I told him that I hardly knew him and didn't have any feelings towards him. He said that he thought his being divorced was scaring me and I said that I wasn't scared, but that it wasn't appropriate for him to be calling me while he was still legally married. He said that that would soon be "fixed" in a few weeks and he asked how I felt about him calling afterwards - I told him that I wasn't interested. He said he was glad that he now understood and quickly got off the phone. FINALLY!! (hehe) Matt called me later and I asked him about Jared, and how he was taking it. He said that Jared was upset and had actually thought that I was interested in him. Whatever! Since when? Anyway, all that is now over and I chalk that up to close encounters of the weird boys.

Staff Development

Monday was Veteran's day and the library was closed. But, no day off for us- we all had a staff development day. It was all day, with classes and workshops - also a catered lunch and other fun activities, including free massages - which I did! Most excellent. I went to the classes geared for Children's services and it was really enjoyable and interesting - especially the one about puppets. The lady had puppets for all of us to use and practice with and she had us come up and try out different actions and voices. It was really fun - especially to see people who are not in our department get up and be silly. Our department had matching shirts (just iron-ons) and it was fun being unified. I love being at the library!

8@7 Activity

Last weekend I participated in an activity from my institute class. It was called 8@7 and what it was is a chance to meet new people. So, 8 people would meet at a restaurant (4 girls and 4 guys) and then that group of 8 would meet with another group at someone's house and play games and such. I was excited. Our group met at the Olive Garden and we had more girls than guys, but we had a fun group and talked had a good time. Then we went to a guy's house and met some other people and played the "signs" game. (When everyone picks a hand gesture or action and you pass the signs around the circle without letting the person in the middle see you, or you're in the middle next.) It was actually really fun. I met lots of nice people and even saw some of them at church the next day and talked a little with them.

Happy Wicked Halloween

Halloween was a blast this year. The library employees were encouraged to dress up and our department went with a theme - the Wizard of Oz. Most of the characters were already chosen, but for some reason the Wicked Witch hadn't been taken. I reluctantly took the part, but then got excited about it. Talk about easy! I put my costume together in no time and I was pleased with the results. Just this morning I picked up a few inches of some see-through black fabric to pin to the back of my hat and it looked great - just like the real Wicked Witch. It was fun seeing everyone's costumes and the rest of the library's response. We had people coming down from other departments to see us. There was talk of a costume prize and we are confident that we got it as a department. I loved this opportunity to get dressed up - that was always my favorite part of Halloween. Hopefully I'll get more chances in the future! FYI, I had the song "Thriller" as my ring tone today - thought I be festive! (hehe)

Some of our department dressed up:

Extra hours

I've been doing some extra hours at the library and I am really enjoying it. I get more time at the reference desk, more than my daily hour, and I love helping people find books and materials. They are always so appreciative - and it makes my job worth it. My Homework Help program is going great and I'm getting about 5-7 kids almost everyday. I have a few that come daily and it's fun to remember what they specifically need and give them personalized help. I am also loving my co-workers and I hear that they really enjoy having me working with them and that I belong with the group now. That makes me feel happy!

Richard Paul Evans and Bookwise

I had the opportunity to attend a Bookwise conference with my ex-boyfriend, Nate and his wife, Shae. (Long story) Let me tell you a little about this Bookwise Conference - it was actually an Author conference and they had real authors in attendance to give presentations. Richard Paul Evans is the CEO of the company and he shared his story about how he got his "Christmas Box" published and whatnot. On Friday we saw some great authors including the Mark Victor Hansen, who did the Chicken Soup for the Soul books - he was really funny, and the Singing Chef - who made me laugh as we all sang along with him.

Later that evening they had a kick-off party and had the band Smash Mouth perform. Talk about cool! I actually knew most of their songs. Too bad I couldn't get any autographs! (hehe)

At the end of the concert, Shae and I went up near the stage and Richard Paul Evans happened to be there as well talking to some people. Shae went up and shake his hand and he shook my hand as well - THEN, out of nowhere he hugged me. AWKWARD! Where did that come from? (hehe) I did see him hug some people earlier and I think he was just in a hug mode. Funny! Now I can saw that Richard Paul Evans hugged me - no one will believe me! (hehe)

Don't forget about Yanni...

Today was Terri's 50th Birthday and she had a big party at her house. It was fun. Beforehand she sent out squares of fabric to everyone to decorate - then she would make a quilt from the squares. I was thinking and thinking of what I could do for my square and I finally thought of the perfect inside joke - Yanni. We'll, it's not really a joke - but just something we both shared. I found a picture from one of his album covers and printed it onto an iron-on sheet (I have attached the mentioned picture). It worked out perfectly, and I was very happy with the end result. I did write a little message with a Sharpie - but it bled a little and didn't look so good - but that's ok. So, Terri loved my Yanni square and got a good laugh out of it and gave me an extra special hug. Yeah!

FHE and Institute

I went to FHE this week, I've made this my new goal, and it was a stake activity. It was a Halloween carnival and it was fun. I actually didn't participate in the games, but it was good to socialize with people in my ward and met some new people.

Tuesday I went to Institute and it was such a good class. It's the Parables of Jesus and this parable we studied was about the two debtors. The lesson behind the parable was about repentance and it's two-fold purpose/mission. We can be forgiven, or justified, as soon as we are repentant and ask for forgiveness. We are forgiven and deemed innocent, but that doesn't mean our character or nature is changed. So, over time and when we keep our covenants and then we are sanctified - which changes our character and makes us pure. I never really understood this part of repentance and was really touched by the lesson. I guess that Elder Bednar talked about the during conference, but I don't remember. I'm anxious to get my Conference Ensign to study and review.

Joseph's Musical Number

So Joseph Cook, my new friend in the ward, called me up and asked if I could play for a musical number he was putting together. He arranged the music for the hymn, "I saw a mighty angel fly". We got together to practice, first at the JSMB because that's where Joseph works and he could get us in to use a piano after we had FHE at the Church Museum. The music was a little hard, but I vowed to practice all week to get it down.
Our group, about 8 of us, got together again after our ward temple excursion. We went to the Mt. Timp temple - it was good. This time we met to practice at the Gardner Hall - once again because Joseph could get us in to use a piano.
We performed it in Sacrament meeting and it sounded really good - despite all of my mistake that I hope no one heard! (hehe) Well, I got to know Joseph a little more during this process and so far I like what I hear. He was really good about calling and whenever I returned his calls he would say, "Hello Elizabeth Hope". We had an early practice before church and he asked me for a ride, which I couldn't give him because I had Ward council to attend beforehand. Anyway - the point I am making is that I think he considers me a friend and I need all the friends I can get!

Sheila and the Dreams

Monday was Sheila's birthday, but they were still in Wyoming, so we celebrated yesterday. Us girls decided to have a little lunch out for her and we had a great time at the Olive Garden. Good food! It was just us Hope girls, including Emilia. Later that evening we went over to their place for some cake and ice cream. (I had to pick those up from the store because David didn't seem to remember - oh well). I found a cute little book about dream interpretations and we all had fun looking up different dream symbols. I think she was happy with it - yeah!

General Conference

I got to watch almost all of conference, except the last session because I had to stupid work. I still need to watch that session, I keep forgetting. It was a good conference all around - but when isn't it? (hehe)
I was surprised/pleased about President Eyring and Elder Cook. They will be most excellent in their new callings. To be honest, I overslept Saturday morning, just until 10:20 and missed the actual announcement. So, I got online to the Deseret News website and they had the information already. That's what I call fast news!

I was really touched when Elder Nelson assisted Elder Wirthlin during his talk - it turns out that he locked his knees and that's why he started shaking. I started crying when I saw Elder Nelson helping him - and Elder Wirthlin's talk was about charity. It was awesome.

Elder Condie's talk about Leah and Rachel also struck me. I'm anxious to get the Ensign and read over the talks again - to get more from them.

During conference I worked on some of Mom's photo albums. She hasn't scrapbooked the albums from 1984-1989. I spent all of conference just peeling the pictures off the original pages. I plan on helping her put them in acid-free pages - nothing fancy. I'm just not into the fancy-shamcy scrapbooking anymore - just slap it on with some glue/tape and call it good.

Did I tell you that Anna invited Mom and me to attend the R.S. broadcast at the conference center? I bet you heard about it from Mom. Well, it was a great meeting and the Spirit spoke to me about a few different things - including doing my visiting teaching. I just haven't done it since being in my ward. It's not like I don't want to - I just don't remember. My companion is one of my roommates, Amy, and we are going to try and be better about getting out. Anyway, the new R.S. General Presidency is great - the 1st counselor is Hispanic and the 2nd is an older single lady. I think Sister Beck, the president, did a good job in representing the women of the church.

Chocolate Phone

Last night David and Sheila came by with our new phones. I was so excited! I got the LG Chocolate, which isn't a flip phone but a slide phone. I already love it.

Kelly Clarkson Beautiful Disaster Live

I just discovered this song - I love it...

KELLY CLARKSON
"Beautiful Disaster"

He drowns in his dreams
An exquisite extreme I know
He's as damned as he seems
And more heaven than a heart could hold
And if I try to save him
My whole world would cave in
It just ain't right
Lord, it just ain't right

Oh and I don't know
I don't know what he's after
But he's so beautiful
He's such a beautiful disaster
And if I could hold on
Through the tears and the laughter
Lord, would it be beautiful?
Or just a beautiful disaster

He's magic and myth
As strong as what I believe
A tragedy with
More damage than a soul should see
But do I try to change him
So hard not to blame him
Hold me tight
Baby, hold me tight

Oh and I don't know
I don't know what he's after
But he's so beautiful
He's such a beautiful disaster
And if I could hold on
Through the tears and the laughter
Would it be beautiful?
Or just a beautiful disaster

I'm longing for love and the logical
But he's only happy hysterical
I'm searching for some kind of miracle
Waited so long
Waited so long

He's soft to the touch
But frayed at the end he breaks
He's never enough
And still he's more than I can take

Oh and I don't know
I don't know what he's after
But he's so beautiful
He's such a beautiful disaster
And if I could hold on
Through the tears and the laughter
Would it be beautiful?
Or just a beautiful disaster

He's beautiful
Lord, he's so beautiful
He's beautiful

Erienne and Rob

I went to Erienne Hank's wedding today. I got to go to the sealing and it was really good. The sealing was really special and the sealer talked about the importance of family prayers and expressing your love for each other - and for the children to see that love. I thought it was really sweet and very good advice.
Erienne's colors were brown and pink and it was very cute. She even had a little pink ribbon tied around her waist. We complimented her on it and she said, "I had to accessorize!".

The Desk

This is my second week working in the Children's department and I love it. We have started the homework help and so far I have had some kids come up to for help. Hopefully this will be a successful thing! We had a 2 volunteers come in, one on Mon and one today and hopefully we'll have one for everyday. If not, that's ok, I can man the table right now. While it's quiet, I have had some time to just read. I hope to start doing some more productive projects for the department - but in the meantime I will read. Did I mention that I have my own desk? Yes, I have a desk and drawers and a bulletin board and even a trash bin. I've never had my own desk before and I'm excited for the possibilities of personalizing it. I'll have to take a picture of my desk to you can be proud. So, since I have a degree I have been promoted from an Associate to Librarian in title and a small wage increase ($17.46 per hour). I am excited that I can finally say I'm a Children's Librarian. Hopefully I can get full-time work in the near future! That would be a goal accomplishment.

Anime

So, don't think I'm weird or anything, but I'm starting to enjoy some anime. I had a friend recommend one to me while in Taiwan and I told another friend about it and he got excited and wrote me a list of some exceptional (in his opinion) anime movies. I've only watched 3, but they were fun and I might watch some more.
I have now seen:
Spirited Away,
Kiki's Delivery Service,
and Castle in the Sky.
I put more titles on reserve at the library.

Talk Like A Pirate Day - Argg!

My pirate name is:

Mad Ethel Cash

Every pirate is a little bit crazy. You, though, are more than just a little bit. You're musical, and you've got a certain style if not flair. You'll do just fine. Arr!

Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.
part of the fidius.org network

Gentree & Devin

My cousin, Gentree, got married today. Her and Devin's wedding was really nice. The sealing was really special and the sealer did a great job. It was cute watching Devin and Gentree hug everyone - Devin got teary-eyed as he hugged his Dad - it was way sweet. There wasn't a luncheon afterwards so, after taking the traditional temple pictures, a few of us went to the Lion house to have some delicious lunch at the Pantry restaurant.
The reception was really different - it was a BBQ at a park. Except for the bride and groom, the rest of their family dressed casual and they had music playing and help-your-self to the red velvet wedding cake. It was fun and everyone had a great time. Steve and Gentree danced to this touching song and Steve had dedicated it to Devin. It was about a dad telling his new son-in-law that "I held her first..." It was a country song - but it was really sweet and I saw quite a few people getting emotional, like myself, and wiping away tears, including Dad. It was a fun relaxing evening and I'm really happy for Gentree and Devin.

Children's Department

I got the job with the Children's department and I'm really excited about it. I start next Monday. I mentioned earlier that the interview was really laid back and easy-going. I didn't quite know how to take it - whether or not to feel confident about it. Then I had a depressing week afterwards because I received all those rejection letters. I was in tears a few times as I talked about my frustrations to Dad and my bishop. Well, the Lord came through (as always) and I got a call about the Children's job. I was elated. It's not full-time, but it's a big promotion (Aide to Associate) and pay increase. Also, big bonus, I'm in the Children's Department! Just where I want to be! I'm hoping by being there I'll hear about any Librarian positions in the future. So, what my job will entail, for 16 hours a week, will be overseeing the homework tutoring. I guess they are bringing university volunteers to help tutor and what not. Also, I'll get to help out at the reference desk. I'm still unclear what my job duties will entail - but no doubt they will train me! I'm kind of sad to leave the Circulation department - and my new friends. At least I'll still get to see them when I check out my numerous items.

Good News, Bad News

This week I had two follow-up interviews for library jobs. One was at the Anderson-Foothill branch, for a full-time Assistant job. The other one was for the Children's department, for a part-time Associate job. I thought both interviews went well. In fact, the one for the Children's department one was really funny because we got some drinks from the little cafe, I got a yummy chocolate milk, and we sat at one of the tables nearby and just shot the breeze. Well, we didn't really "shoot the breeze", but it was so laid back it felt like that. The manager had a little notepad, but she didn't even take notes or anything. I was hoping it went well!
So, the week has been going slowly as I waited to hear from three jobs at the library. Saturday's mail came with some interesting results. The exciting part was that I got my Masters diploma. I was really pleased - until I saw that they mispelled my middle name! That's ok, I'll call next week and see if they can get me a new one.
The mail also included two letters from the library and I got worried. They were the predicted rejection letters for two of the jobs. One was the full-time job at Foothill - oh well. Nothing about the children's job - but that won't be decided until next week.
I'm feeling pretty discouraged now. I have this (mispelled) diploma and nothing to show for it! I am getting tired of filling out applications and having interview - why can't the perfect job just land in my lap! I mean really!

Portland Graduation

The weekend in Portland was really fun and good bonding time with Mom and Dad. We got to Portland early on Friday and had time to do some sightseeing. The rental car came with a GPS unit and Dad really liked that - it really helped us get around. The funniest route we took was from the airport to the hotel. Dad picked the "shortest route" and so we were driving some back roads and even some bumpy roads. We were really doubting the directions when all of the sudden the hotel sprang into view. It was really funny - but I guess you had to be there. Our hotel room was really spiffy - and it even had an indoor pool and jacuzzi. I was really wishing I had thought to pack my suit! We took some time to see the temple and it was a beautiful day - as you can tell from the pictures.

Saturday of the graduation I was kind of nervous. More like I had butterflies. We got to PSU (Portland State University) a little bit early - but it was perfect because I had to get into my cap and gown for pictures. Mom and Dad just went down to the Farmer's Market while they waited for the ceremony to start. All three times I have been in Portland there has been a Farmer's Market going on at PSU - it must be a summer event. Anyway, the graduation ceremony was great and quite enjoyable. I even got a little teary-eyed when the President conferred the degree. It was a nice day. Mom and Dad gave me some lavender roses they had bought at the Market - it was Dad's idea. Cute huh? We didn't stay long at the reception, but did some walking around downtown Portland. I really wanted to see this famous Portland building that was built to look like a cake, but I didn't see the resemblance. Dad told us all about it - he came to Portland while on a school field trip while in grad school. After the extensive walk we got some dinner and then just relaxed the rest of the evening. We didn't do much in Portland, but it was a relaxing and fun trip.

More Interviews

Monday and today I had interviews for higher jobs at the city library. I'm feeling encouraged, but still anxious for something for something to work out! I have a follow-up interview next Monday for the full-time job and I hope that one turns out. If not, then I hope for the part-time one in the children's section. I've been praying for months for a better job, so now it's in the Lord's hands. I've done all I can do at this point! Wish me luck!

This weekend is my graduation and I'm excited - especially to be going to Portland again (and not at my expense! hehe) Mom and I have planned out what I can do a sort of announcement, and it will definitely involve pictures from this weekend.

Two Sacrament Meetings

Our ward choir met early to practice for the song we were singing in Sacrament. I was asked to play the piano. We practiced and it started coming together. The song went well, with mistakes on my part - but I highly doubt anyone really noticed, and the choir director was so grateful for my help. Sure!
Right after Sacrament I slipped out with my friend, Jen Udy, to go with her to another friend's baby blessing. I actually am not close friends with this girl, but Jen asked me to come because she needed some moral support because her ex-boyfriend would be in attendance with his fiance - who is her ex-best friend. Long story - but I was happy to help out. It was actually enjoyable and I got to see other friends I knew in the Rosewood Singles ward. One thing which was most enjoyable about this ward was the organist. When she was playing prelude and postlude she would slowly move the volume pedal up and down. Why? I'm not sure - but it was quite entertaining.
After that Sacrament mtg was over Jen and I went back to the institute building - for separate reasons to see our bishops. I needed to get a new recommend - the one with the new barcode.
Later I went over to the Johnson's for dinner and I brought over my DVD collection. Kade picked out The Swiss Family Robinson and we all enjoyed watching it again - Karter loved the big tree house. I love Fritz - so we're both happy.

No Reservations

I met up with a friend and we went to dinner and a movie. We saw "No Reservations" with Catherine Zeta-Jones. It was so good, and it was PG! I loved it! It was about this obsessive chef,Kate, who runs the kitchen at a fancy restaurant. Her sister is coming to visit, with her niece, but they get into a car accident and the sister dies. Well, the niece comes to live with Kate and it's a big adjustment. In the meantime the restaurant owner hires a temp chef and he's a more unconventional. Well, this story it about compromising and softening of hearts and it had a little romance - which I love! My friend and I sat for a few minutes during the credits and wished we could find cute husbands as well! (Sigh!)

Texting at McDonald's

So, I went through the drive through at McDonald's and had a unsatisfied experience. I ordered my meal and the cashier didn't ask for my drink order and put Coke as my choice. That's ok, I thought, I'll just correct her at the window. So I drive up and the cashier leans out to take my money and she is holding her cell phone and totally texting - not even looking at me. I told her that I wanted another drink - but she didn't get that message to the others. Anyway, I ended up with Coke and all in all felt disgruntled about the whole experience. So, I decided to speak up about it. I found an email on my recipe and wrote this email:

I went through the drive through and was not satisfied with the service. First off the person didn't ask what drink I wanted and I got the wrong drink - that's ok by itself - but when I pulled up to the first window the cashier was holding her phone and texting as she was taking my money. I could tell she was distracted and I don't think that is appropriate. I just thought I should bring that to your attention.

Well, I got this response:

Dear customer,
Thank you for your email, I do appreciate you for letting us know about yourvisit and I will contact the store manager and let him be aware of what ishappening and this in not appropriate.
Thank you again,
McDonald's Office

Well, who knows if this problem will get fixed or not. I was kind of hoping I would get a coupon or something! (hehe)

My Space

I finally opened a Myspace account. I had a few friend invite me to do it and so far it's pretty fun and I already have 17 friends! I can see it being a fun tool to get in contact with old friends and that excites me. It's a little addictive right now, because I'm personalizing my profile - but the newness will wear off and I can enjoy the messages and what not. We'll see if I keep it up or not.

http://www.myspace.com/ejhopester

My Date with Ethan

So, I have to share about my date last Friday. It went really well, I think! I was so nervous after I initially called Ethan, and was worried because Janey and I didn't have a set plan on what we were going to do, etc. Janey is a more of a fly by the seat of your pants kind of girl - but I don't like not having a plan set! We decided on going up to a canyon for a picnic, then maybe getting ice cream afterwards. We played around with making tinfoil dinners and then decided to do sandwiches - then decided to buy Subway. Well, as Friday evening came closer I had opportunities to talk to Ethan. The last time I called him he answered, "Hey Elizabeth" - that means he had my name in his address book of his phone!
He came to our house, looking all spiffy, and all my anxieties went away. Janey went with Mike, who lives downstairs, and he offered to drive because he is prone to car sickness. So, we first went over to Subway to get some sandwiches - then we were planning on going up to a canyon for a picnic. Ethan was a perfect gentleman - he opened my doors, etc. Well, I let him order before me and before I knew it, while I was still ordering my sub, he was paying for me! I was shocked, I think I forgot to thank him. What a nice guy! Well, our canyon plan changed to just going up to Memory Grove. We put out a blanket and had an awesome picnic. The four of us started talking together, but then Janey and Mike started talking to each other and Ethan and I started talking to each other exclusively. It was nice - we had a really good conversation - and he is a good listener. He would ask follow up questions about something I had talked about and I found myself opening up to him. Hopefully I didn't make him uncomfortable - but he really appeared like he was genuinely interested!
So, after about 2 hours, we packed up and decided to make a stop for some ice cream. We stopped at Baskins and Robbins - and once again Ethan was paying for me before I had a chance to even get into my purse. I thanked him this time - what a nice guy! We sat outside on a little patch of grass and ate our cones. While sitting there, Ethan would say hello to people passing by. One guy stopped when Ethan asked him about the book he was carrying. We discussed mystery novels for a bit, then I totally understood where Ethan was going with this conversation. Ethan then asked this guy if he had read the Book of Mormon. The guy said he hadn't and said something like, "I think it's unbelievable, and I mean literally". Anyway - that isn't what was shocking, because rejections like that not rare. What was shocking was that Ethan totally did that on a date! What are your thoughts on that? I still haven't decided. What I have figured out is that Ethan is still in missionary mode - which is not bad in any way - but that he seems to keep the "sisters" at arm distance. Where is the balance?
Anyway - we went back to our house and talked for a few minutes - then he said he needed to leave so I walked him outside. No, he didn't hug me and I was tempted but his body language didn't really invite it. He was really gracious about the evening and I hinted that we should get together again sometime. I felt good about the experience, but didn't come away feeling encouraged. He doesn't really give off any vibes or signals, so I don't know what to think. At least I asked him out, so hopefully he knows that I'm interested in getting know him better. I feel like Kenny Loggins when he sings,
"I wanna sing you a love song,
I wanna rock you in my arms all night long,
I wanna get to know you,
I wanna show you the peaceful feeling of my home".

Sesame Street - The Ladybug's Picnic

I love this sketch about the ladybug's picnic!

Niece and Nephew Pictures

I was at Mom's house this last week and the movie, Anne of Avonlea, came on and Anna and Kade were over. Karter is so funny, he came in and said, "Yes, I love the Anne Shirley show!". And he actually sat on the couch and watch for a bit. Isn't he a kick?

I have included some pictures from when we were at Emily and Alex's house, for the baby blessing. Unfortunately I didn't get any shots of baby Mercedes! I was happily distracted! (hehe) I know Mom got some, so we're covered.

EmiliaKarterAlec