My talented 12-year-old niece Jenna strikes again, teaching an important lesson on gratitude and the receiving of Christmas presents as only she (and this turkey) could do.
Saturday, December 26, 2015
Turkey of Gratitude
I discovered this little piece of art only after everyone had gone home following our family get-together on Christmas Eve:
My talented 12-year-old niece Jenna strikes again, teaching an important lesson on gratitude and the receiving of Christmas presents as only she (and this turkey) could do.
My talented 12-year-old niece Jenna strikes again, teaching an important lesson on gratitude and the receiving of Christmas presents as only she (and this turkey) could do.
Friday, December 25, 2015
Joyful and Triumphant
Another great Christmas holiday is in the books! To celebrate this wondrous holiday and the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, the family gathered for our annual Christmas dinner and pageant on Christmas Eve.
The food was delicious and plentiful, and once again my sister put together a fantastic Christmas pageant program, which included music by Ben and Jenna on the violin, Steve on the guitar, and Jessica on the piano and a duet by Dave and Kira.
Jackson, who had seen Star Wars: The Force Awakens for the first time Tuesday night and was very excited about the movie, created this for me out of LEGO bricks:
Jackson wasn't the only one whose mind was on Star Wars. Biz tells me that nine-month-old Kate picked out this beanie for me at the store and would not let go of it:
As for that weird kind of depression that sets in on the morning of Boxing Day when you realize that Christmas is over for another year? Save it for January 6th, because December 25th is actually the first day of Christmas and not the twelfth. In the meantime, I reserve the right to wear my Christmas socks and listen to holiday tunes through Three Kings Day.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Improvables: Christmas Party 2015
At the troupe Christmas party this week, the food was good and plentiful, as was the company, but the highlight was our annual white elephant gift exchange. This is usually the case, as our gang gets quite creative with this task. Among the presents divvied out were Star Wars goodies, a cactus, and a coffee mug in the shape of a toilet
As for yours truly, I ended up with an Obama Chia Head:
Hope for sunlight, and change the water often.
Fortunately, I got the "Happy" Obama Chia Head. The "Determined" one, from the photograph on the box, shows a much sterner president, like when he is handling an important chore that comes with the highest political office in the land, such as concentrating on a golf putt.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland, Alone
"It's been a long time, been a long time,
Been a long lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely time."
-Led Zeppelin, "Rock and Roll"
The holidays are all about either enjoying the chilly outdoors together with a loved one ("Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland") or staying indoors together with a loved one because it's chilly outdoors ("Baby, It's Cold Outside"). Well, that's what my radio tells me ad nauseum each night as I drift off to sleep. Eventually.
Why are the holidays such a tough time for many singles? For many, it's because of songs like these aforementioned ones, which remind them just what they lack. It's the season of giving and receiving, and one of the greatest gifts of all somehow seems to elude them. Also, Hallmark movies, which convey sort of the same message.
This topic has been on my mind this holiday season because, well, the holidays just don't seem to really get any easier for those of us on the Island of Misfit Toys. You'd think it would get easier with time. But it never seems to.
Some fill the void by throwing themselves into their work, their hobbies, social events with friends, or a combination of these things. Even social media seems like a substitute for companionship. Others face rejection, and then give up completely. They withdraw and become hardened or stop trying to move forward.
At times, I have been all of these people.
And then there's my family member who has had a very tough month. I last wrote about this person on Thanksgiving Day here on Paco Nation. We've all hoped and prayed things would get better.
They haven't.
I visited this person last week for the first time at this person's new place of residence, where treatment is ongoing. I meant to stop by for at least an hour, but I ended up staying for three. This person plead with me to stay there until it was time for bed.
Loneliness comes in so many forms.
All of this was on my mind last week when I attended the First Presidency Christmas Devotional down at the Conference Center. Thank goodness I had the opportunity to go. It was comforting to me personally to hear President Dieter F. Uchtdorf remind us all about the One for whom we celebrate Christmas:
"He saves us from loneliness, emptiness, and unworthiness. He opens our eyes and our ears. He transforms darkness to light, grief to hope, and loneliness to love."
I need saving from all three of those things. In some ways, I still need my eyes and ears opened. It was a concept that was exactly what I needed to hear at that moment.
Does that instantly make it all better? No. But it helps me to remember what matters most at this time. It teaches me that while the pain, suffering, and grief of this life are in fact temporary, so is loneliness.
That thought alone may get me through New Year's, at least.
Been a long lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely, lonely time."
-Led Zeppelin, "Rock and Roll"
The holidays are all about either enjoying the chilly outdoors together with a loved one ("Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland") or staying indoors together with a loved one because it's chilly outdoors ("Baby, It's Cold Outside"). Well, that's what my radio tells me ad nauseum each night as I drift off to sleep. Eventually.
Why are the holidays such a tough time for many singles? For many, it's because of songs like these aforementioned ones, which remind them just what they lack. It's the season of giving and receiving, and one of the greatest gifts of all somehow seems to elude them. Also, Hallmark movies, which convey sort of the same message.
This topic has been on my mind this holiday season because, well, the holidays just don't seem to really get any easier for those of us on the Island of Misfit Toys. You'd think it would get easier with time. But it never seems to.
Some fill the void by throwing themselves into their work, their hobbies, social events with friends, or a combination of these things. Even social media seems like a substitute for companionship. Others face rejection, and then give up completely. They withdraw and become hardened or stop trying to move forward.
At times, I have been all of these people.And then there's my family member who has had a very tough month. I last wrote about this person on Thanksgiving Day here on Paco Nation. We've all hoped and prayed things would get better.
They haven't.
I visited this person last week for the first time at this person's new place of residence, where treatment is ongoing. I meant to stop by for at least an hour, but I ended up staying for three. This person plead with me to stay there until it was time for bed.
Loneliness comes in so many forms.
All of this was on my mind last week when I attended the First Presidency Christmas Devotional down at the Conference Center. Thank goodness I had the opportunity to go. It was comforting to me personally to hear President Dieter F. Uchtdorf remind us all about the One for whom we celebrate Christmas:
"He saves us from loneliness, emptiness, and unworthiness. He opens our eyes and our ears. He transforms darkness to light, grief to hope, and loneliness to love."
I need saving from all three of those things. In some ways, I still need my eyes and ears opened. It was a concept that was exactly what I needed to hear at that moment.
Does that instantly make it all better? No. But it helps me to remember what matters most at this time. It teaches me that while the pain, suffering, and grief of this life are in fact temporary, so is loneliness.
That thought alone may get me through New Year's, at least.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
My Dinner with Luke
This kid, my nephew Luke, recently turned 10 years old:
To celebrate his birthday (a bit late due to scheduling differences), we went out to eat dinner together at Chuck-a-Rama, because that's the kind of uncle I am and I let them pick where they'd like to go eat. After that, we went to the store so he could pick out his own present. Like the cool kids do at this time of year.
It was an enjoyable evening out with one of my favorite people.
To celebrate his birthday (a bit late due to scheduling differences), we went out to eat dinner together at Chuck-a-Rama, because that's the kind of uncle I am and I let them pick where they'd like to go eat. After that, we went to the store so he could pick out his own present. Like the cool kids do at this time of year.
It was an enjoyable evening out with one of my favorite people.
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Christmas Party on the Island of Misfit Toys
Saturday night, it was the ward's annual Christmas party. It was a great opportunity to get together with several good friends in the ward to enjoy a catered meal provided by Red Flame, as well as to be entertained by the many talents of my fellow Misfit Toys. Singing, dancing, hula dancing, etc.
Also, ugly sweaters. My photo here does not capture the variety of sweaters/ugliness of said sweaters (though Emily's was a good one), but trust me when I say that my fellow ward members certainly delivered.
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Pasta with Friends
For my friend Nick's birthday this week, a group of us went out to dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory. Fortunately, the spaghetti was not old but instead was fresh and delicious.
Also, there were balloon animals. In other words, all of the ingredients for a great night out were present.
Also, there were balloon animals. In other words, all of the ingredients for a great night out were present.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Good Things to Come
I hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving holiday today and, where possible, you were able to spend at least some time with family members or friends.
As for me, it is an odd-numbered year (i.e. 2015), so it is a year when all of my siblings go to the in-laws' for Turkey Day. That is partly why I ended up eating my piece of pumpkin pie in a hospital room.
It wasn't what I had planned on nor where I wanted to be, but then again, nobody at that hospital wanted to be there—the other visitors, the nurses, and the patients especially.
Someone in my family is sick right now. Out of respect to this person and the condition being battled, I do not get any more specific than that at this time. Suffice me to say, for now, that this person wanted to be in this hospital room less than anyone else there and asked multiple times to be taken home.
It is not possible at the moment. Not today. But we hope and pray that that day will come soon.
Over the course of a very anxious week, we have been doing a lot of hoping and praying. None has been more stressed or worried than Mom.
I am not the one who tends to be optimistic in these situations. Nevertheless, a familiar quote from President Gordon B. Hinckley keeps running through my head:
"Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. . . . If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."
How exactly it will all work out remains to be seen right now. But in the Lord's due time, it will all be OK. There is always hope when we put our trust in the High Priest of good things to come.
Sometimes, the lessons on gratitude are not totally lost.
As for me, it is an odd-numbered year (i.e. 2015), so it is a year when all of my siblings go to the in-laws' for Turkey Day. That is partly why I ended up eating my piece of pumpkin pie in a hospital room.
It wasn't what I had planned on nor where I wanted to be, but then again, nobody at that hospital wanted to be there—the other visitors, the nurses, and the patients especially.
It is not possible at the moment. Not today. But we hope and pray that that day will come soon.
Over the course of a very anxious week, we have been doing a lot of hoping and praying. None has been more stressed or worried than Mom.
I am not the one who tends to be optimistic in these situations. Nevertheless, a familiar quote from President Gordon B. Hinckley keeps running through my head:
"Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. . . . If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."
How exactly it will all work out remains to be seen right now. But in the Lord's due time, it will all be OK. There is always hope when we put our trust in the High Priest of good things to come.
Sometimes, the lessons on gratitude are not totally lost.
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Family Pictures
Our last family photo was taken, according to my recollection, in December 2004. We were long overdue for a new one, having added multiple siblings-in-law, nieces, and nephews to the clan in the years since that time.
Jeff's sister-in-law Ginny took the pictures and did a fantastic job. If you're looking for someone to take your family photos, I can send you in her direction.
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
The Sacrifice of All Things
Since last week's announcement about the handbook update and the new policy regarding same-sex couples and their children, social media is ablaze once again. Quite understandably, there are some very strong feelings about this matter on both sides of the issue. I don't really need to go into the details, because I'm sure you know them by now, but in case you were pearl diving in the South Pacific and somehow missed it, Elder Christofferson explains the change and the rationale behind it in this interview here.
I have pondered a great deal about what to write about on this subject. The more I have studied it, the more I see the wisdom in the change and the great deal of thought, prayer, and inspiration that are behind it.
Nevertheless, I fully realize that, for others, including many members of the Church, the reaction is the polar opposite. The announcement has really thrown them for a loop and has caused confusion, doubt, and anger.
The scriptures and events from Church history are replete with heart-wrenching, defining moments in which people were asked to do things that shook the very ground they walked on. Consider Abraham's commandment to sacrifice his only son, Isaac; Daniel facing the lion's den; Alma and Amulek being forced to watch their converts being burned alive; the commandment for some latter-day leaders to obey the law of polygamy (which caused Brigham Young to look at a funeral casket and wish he were in it); and many others.
The greatest, most important example, of course, was our Savior, who plead in agony: "Remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done" (Luke 22:42).
Each was tested to core but, at the same time, each obeyed because they clung to a vital truth that was taught by the Prophet Joseph Smith:
"A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has the power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation."
The sacrifices we make and will have to make are likely not going to be on such a grand scale as the aforementioned examples, though there are those among us who live under very difficult circumstances, be they mental, emotional, spiritual, or physical. Certainly, no one can know the extent of the Savior's infinite sacrifice for us all nor will have to endure that kind of suffering.
However, my point is that, sometimes, what it all boils down to is that the most important thing we are asked to sacrifice is the only thing that is really ours to give: our will. We are asked to sacrifice our pride, our natural man instincts, or our inclination to disbelieve, criticize, or murmur. We are asked to believe, or to plant to seed to believe even if we can't believe right now. We are asked to support and sustain even when we don't fully understand the reasons why as we see through our natural eyes. Our father Adam sacrificed because he didn't know the reasons but he knew that he had been commanded by the Lord.
In a 1978 speech, Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught: "In the months and years ahead, events will require of each member that he or she decide whether or not he or she will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions."
I believe that this is one of those moments of decision for some among us.
Having said all that, I am also troubled by comments from a few Church members about the policy change. To those who are struggling with this news, they have said: "If you don't like it, leave."
This sentiment should not exist among those who profess to follow Christ. Our Savior invited all who were burdened all to come unto Him and to find rest to their souls.
To any reading this who may be considering leaving the Church, whatever the reasons, I plead with you: Stay. The Church needs you. I need you. And you need the Church. If you have concerns or worries, it is okay to have them, and there is a way to resolve them. Pray. Read the scriptures. Meditate. Re-read a conference talk. Counsel with your bishop. If not him, talk to someone else you trust. Talk to me, and I will listen. Ponderize. Or tenderize. Do whatever you need to do to figure things out, and take the time you need to do so.
After all, the reason we have this church is because a young man had doubts, agonized over them, and prayed about them.
Remember this counsel of President Hinckley: "Be believing, be happy, don't get discouraged. Things will work out."
If we seek out the Lord's will and have the courage to act upon the answers, I believe that things will, indeed, work out.
I have pondered a great deal about what to write about on this subject. The more I have studied it, the more I see the wisdom in the change and the great deal of thought, prayer, and inspiration that are behind it.
Nevertheless, I fully realize that, for others, including many members of the Church, the reaction is the polar opposite. The announcement has really thrown them for a loop and has caused confusion, doubt, and anger.
The scriptures and events from Church history are replete with heart-wrenching, defining moments in which people were asked to do things that shook the very ground they walked on. Consider Abraham's commandment to sacrifice his only son, Isaac; Daniel facing the lion's den; Alma and Amulek being forced to watch their converts being burned alive; the commandment for some latter-day leaders to obey the law of polygamy (which caused Brigham Young to look at a funeral casket and wish he were in it); and many others.
The greatest, most important example, of course, was our Savior, who plead in agony: "Remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done" (Luke 22:42).Each was tested to core but, at the same time, each obeyed because they clung to a vital truth that was taught by the Prophet Joseph Smith:
"A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has the power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation."
The sacrifices we make and will have to make are likely not going to be on such a grand scale as the aforementioned examples, though there are those among us who live under very difficult circumstances, be they mental, emotional, spiritual, or physical. Certainly, no one can know the extent of the Savior's infinite sacrifice for us all nor will have to endure that kind of suffering.
However, my point is that, sometimes, what it all boils down to is that the most important thing we are asked to sacrifice is the only thing that is really ours to give: our will. We are asked to sacrifice our pride, our natural man instincts, or our inclination to disbelieve, criticize, or murmur. We are asked to believe, or to plant to seed to believe even if we can't believe right now. We are asked to support and sustain even when we don't fully understand the reasons why as we see through our natural eyes. Our father Adam sacrificed because he didn't know the reasons but he knew that he had been commanded by the Lord.
In a 1978 speech, Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught: "In the months and years ahead, events will require of each member that he or she decide whether or not he or she will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions."
I believe that this is one of those moments of decision for some among us.
Having said all that, I am also troubled by comments from a few Church members about the policy change. To those who are struggling with this news, they have said: "If you don't like it, leave."
This sentiment should not exist among those who profess to follow Christ. Our Savior invited all who were burdened all to come unto Him and to find rest to their souls.
To any reading this who may be considering leaving the Church, whatever the reasons, I plead with you: Stay. The Church needs you. I need you. And you need the Church. If you have concerns or worries, it is okay to have them, and there is a way to resolve them. Pray. Read the scriptures. Meditate. Re-read a conference talk. Counsel with your bishop. If not him, talk to someone else you trust. Talk to me, and I will listen. Ponderize. Or tenderize. Do whatever you need to do to figure things out, and take the time you need to do so.
After all, the reason we have this church is because a young man had doubts, agonized over them, and prayed about them.
Remember this counsel of President Hinckley: "Be believing, be happy, don't get discouraged. Things will work out."
If we seek out the Lord's will and have the courage to act upon the answers, I believe that things will, indeed, work out.
Monday, November 9, 2015
Aloha Oe . . . for Now
My Uncle Dexter passed away last week at the age of 78. His cancer diagnosis came just a handful of days prior, and before we knew it, he was gone.
His was a wonderful life. Uncle Dexter was that one uncle who pinched my ears and the scruff of my neck (we've all got one, right?) but who also gave great hugs. We never had reason to doubt he loved or cared for us. At Christmas time, we looked forward to the annual package of Omaha Steaks. I also cannot recall a single birthday, including the two I spent as a missionary in Peru, that he and Aunt Marilyn did not send me a birthday card.
The last time I visited him and Aunt Marilyn out in Fairfield, California, he fed us a hearty breakfast and proudly took Ben and me around to several members of his ward to introduce them to "m'nephews."
We love you and miss you. Aloha . . . for now.
Below is his obituary, shared on Facebook by his oldest son, my cousin Jamie.
Obituary William Dexter Sanders
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Improvables: Seventh Annual Halloween Show
On Friday night, our troupe put on our annual Halloween performance, which is one of our favorite nights of the year.
My attempt at a costume was Anger from Disney/Pixar's Inside Out, which has been my favorite movie of the year to this point. I say "attempt" because though I spray-painted my hair red for the costume (and the red spray paint got all over the place), it didn't really turn my hair red as I expected it would, and it also didn't really translate to photos like these (in which I am asking a question in a game of "Press Conference"):
At any rate, it was another memorable night, and the costumes were very impressive all around. After the show, members of the troupe posed for this picture:
As you can see, we're kind of a big deal.
My attempt at a costume was Anger from Disney/Pixar's Inside Out, which has been my favorite movie of the year to this point. I say "attempt" because though I spray-painted my hair red for the costume (and the red spray paint got all over the place), it didn't really turn my hair red as I expected it would, and it also didn't really translate to photos like these (in which I am asking a question in a game of "Press Conference"):
At any rate, it was another memorable night, and the costumes were very impressive all around. After the show, members of the troupe posed for this picture:
As you can see, we're kind of a big deal.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Daniel's Blessing
Up till now, there's been a serious lack of Daniel photos here on Paco Nation. I'm gonna fix that tonight.
My two-month-old nephew Daniel, Steve's and Summer's little boy, was given his LDS baby blessing in his ward today by his dad. Everyone in the immediate family (and their respective families) gathered for this event, and we were joined by some of our Utah County cousins, including Ashlyne and her fiancé, Jordan (who made their big announcement just yesterday).
When I first attempted to take his picture, he was not a happy camper:
Because, baby issues.
Eventually he settled down for this photo:
All around, it was a memorable day, and we're surviving the return to Standard Time so far.
My two-month-old nephew Daniel, Steve's and Summer's little boy, was given his LDS baby blessing in his ward today by his dad. Everyone in the immediate family (and their respective families) gathered for this event, and we were joined by some of our Utah County cousins, including Ashlyne and her fiancé, Jordan (who made their big announcement just yesterday).
When I first attempted to take his picture, he was not a happy camper:
Because, baby issues.
Eventually he settled down for this photo:
All around, it was a memorable day, and we're surviving the return to Standard Time so far.
Thursday, October 8, 2015
My Dinner with Kira
My niece and birthday buddy Kira (our birthdays are only three days apart) turned seven years old Tuesday. To celebrate, we went out to dinner together last night, for which she chose the Pizza Pie Cafe. A girl after my own heart.
After enjoying a delicious meal together, we shared a tasty dessert provided by the cafe for people celebrating a birthday:
Kira is a pretty great conversationalist and had a lot to update me on regarding her first-grade year in school. So, all in all, the company and the food were both wonderful.
After enjoying a delicious meal together, we shared a tasty dessert provided by the cafe for people celebrating a birthday:
Kira is a pretty great conversationalist and had a lot to update me on regarding her first-grade year in school. So, all in all, the company and the food were both wonderful.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Understanding the Plan
Two Sundays ago, Elder Marcus B. Nash of the Seventy visited the Island of Misfit Toys and even took an entire hour (a combined Relief Society/elders quorum meeting) to answer our questions about Church policies and gospel topics. It was an enlightening hour in which we were free, as a congregation, to ask him whatever question we wished.
Before taking our inquiries, he instructed us on the purpose of asking questions (I'm largely paraphrasing, as this is now 10 days in the past, but here you go for those who asked me what Elder Nash taught us):
1) There is no such thing as a bad question, though some are better than others.
2) It is exercising faith to ask questions; you learn so much by doing so.
3) Questions should be genuine and sincere and should not be made to show what you know.
4) Ask yourself: Is this the kind of question that lifts us spiritually?
5) You'll know how sincere your question is by your willingness to act on the answer.
Elder Nash ended up taking about four questions only over the course of that hour, but that is not to say that the time was in any way misspent nor were we shortchanged. On the contrary, it was a very good thing, for his answers were detailed, and he bore testimony of the rationale behind each one, sharing scriptures and teachings of prophets and Apostles in doing so.
One of the more poignant questions came from a member of the congregation who inquired: "How do we draw the line between loving others and standing up for what we believe in?"
Elder Nash asked a follow-up question, asking whether this was about the issue of gay marriage in particular, i.e. "condoning things we don't condone."
The short answer: It's all about understanding the plan of salvation.
He opened Moses 1:39 to us and spoke about God's work and His glory, "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." He taught us that "the plan is the greatest expression of love ever made. The plan is to live God's life." The Savior said, "Here am I; send me." We accepted the Plan, and the evidence of that is that we are here on Earth.
Because of the plan, the Church does not teach "free" agency, but, rather, moral agency. Because of our acceptance of the plan, we agreed that we would be responsible for our choices.
In the October 2015 Ensign, Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles talks in detail about the plan of happiness and why understanding it is so vital to our comprehension of what we are doing here in this mortal realm. Elder Nash recommended that we read it.
One of my favorite lines from it reads: "Those who wonder if their current circumstance or condition cuts them off from eternal life should remember that 'no one is predestined to receive less than all that the Father has for His children.'" That applies to every "circumstance" or "condition."
Also:
"My invitation is that together we stand again in support of the Father's plan. This we do with love for all, for the plan itself is an expression of the love of God."
Again, Elder Nash reiterated that we must understand the plan and the vital importance of recognizing it as being the greatest expression of love ever made.
To achieve exaltation is not only to live with God but to live as God. He is married to a woman, our mother, and He has a large family consisting of many, many children.
In this life, though, the key is the same as it was in the premortal existence: Support the Father's Plan. Do it in love. Don't ever get angry. If someone chooses less than following, we will be kind, love them, and lift them up. Share the doctrine and your knowledge of it.
I'm not doing this enough justice here with my summary. I know that. You very much had to be there to fully feel the Spirit of what he taught us. I recommend Elder Hales's Ensign article, just as Elder Nash recommended it to us, for further reading. It is phenomenal.
So was our hour with Elder Nash.
Before taking our inquiries, he instructed us on the purpose of asking questions (I'm largely paraphrasing, as this is now 10 days in the past, but here you go for those who asked me what Elder Nash taught us):
1) There is no such thing as a bad question, though some are better than others.
2) It is exercising faith to ask questions; you learn so much by doing so.
3) Questions should be genuine and sincere and should not be made to show what you know.
4) Ask yourself: Is this the kind of question that lifts us spiritually?
5) You'll know how sincere your question is by your willingness to act on the answer.
Elder Nash ended up taking about four questions only over the course of that hour, but that is not to say that the time was in any way misspent nor were we shortchanged. On the contrary, it was a very good thing, for his answers were detailed, and he bore testimony of the rationale behind each one, sharing scriptures and teachings of prophets and Apostles in doing so.
One of the more poignant questions came from a member of the congregation who inquired: "How do we draw the line between loving others and standing up for what we believe in?"
Elder Nash asked a follow-up question, asking whether this was about the issue of gay marriage in particular, i.e. "condoning things we don't condone."
The short answer: It's all about understanding the plan of salvation.
He opened Moses 1:39 to us and spoke about God's work and His glory, "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." He taught us that "the plan is the greatest expression of love ever made. The plan is to live God's life." The Savior said, "Here am I; send me." We accepted the Plan, and the evidence of that is that we are here on Earth.Because of the plan, the Church does not teach "free" agency, but, rather, moral agency. Because of our acceptance of the plan, we agreed that we would be responsible for our choices.
In the October 2015 Ensign, Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles talks in detail about the plan of happiness and why understanding it is so vital to our comprehension of what we are doing here in this mortal realm. Elder Nash recommended that we read it.
One of my favorite lines from it reads: "Those who wonder if their current circumstance or condition cuts them off from eternal life should remember that 'no one is predestined to receive less than all that the Father has for His children.'" That applies to every "circumstance" or "condition."
Also:
"My invitation is that together we stand again in support of the Father's plan. This we do with love for all, for the plan itself is an expression of the love of God."
Again, Elder Nash reiterated that we must understand the plan and the vital importance of recognizing it as being the greatest expression of love ever made.
To achieve exaltation is not only to live with God but to live as God. He is married to a woman, our mother, and He has a large family consisting of many, many children.
In this life, though, the key is the same as it was in the premortal existence: Support the Father's Plan. Do it in love. Don't ever get angry. If someone chooses less than following, we will be kind, love them, and lift them up. Share the doctrine and your knowledge of it.
I'm not doing this enough justice here with my summary. I know that. You very much had to be there to fully feel the Spirit of what he taught us. I recommend Elder Hales's Ensign article, just as Elder Nash recommended it to us, for further reading. It is phenomenal.
So was our hour with Elder Nash.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
The Rock of Revelation
What a fantastic general conference of the Church that just concluded today. There were many, many talks that edified and inspired, new words introduced into the LDS lexicon ("ponderize" and "idiotsyncracies" among them), and prayers answered through the messages that were given.
If the answer is yes, then arguably you also hold to the idea that he is, therefore, the Lord's mouthpiece for the Church here on Earth, and these callings are the result of divine revelation. Even if you were expecting possibly someone else to fill those empty chairs in the Conference Center (and, admittedly, I may have been among that number until the names were read), I invite you to think about the fact that he has spent many hours in meditation and prayer in making these assignments and has not done so to fulfill a perceived quota.
A word about the three new Apostles (Elder Rasband, Elder Stevenson, and Elder Renlund) who were called to fill the vacancies in the Quorum of the Twelve: I do not know much about these three brethren just yet, though I understand some of you do. I did listen to Elder Rasband's recent CES fireside, and I enjoyed many of the sentiments expressed. I am looking forward to being instructed by these men in the months and years that come and, in the process, learning more about them.
I was, however, disappointed to read a few comments by people I know who expressed disdain at "three white guys from Utah" being added into the Twelve, complaining about a perceived lack of "diversity."
Whether or not that is true, I do not believe that is the issue that matters here. To these friends and acquaintances, I urge you to focus on one vitally important concept: Do you believe that President Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God?
If the answer is yes, then arguably you also hold to the idea that he is, therefore, the Lord's mouthpiece for the Church here on Earth, and these callings are the result of divine revelation. Even if you were expecting possibly someone else to fill those empty chairs in the Conference Center (and, admittedly, I may have been among that number until the names were read), I invite you to think about the fact that he has spent many hours in meditation and prayer in making these assignments and has not done so to fulfill a perceived quota.
The Lord's thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are not our ways. He looks on the heart and not on the outward appearance. Even if we often do.
If the answer to the above question is no, well, odds are you just might have found something else to be upset about had the "diversity" you desired been achieved. I've been on social media enough to know that the Great and Spacious Building tunes in to conference, too. Because, hey, pointing fingers is more fun.
My own testimony of Pres. Monson was solidified again last night while listening to him speak in priesthood session and hearing what the word of the Lord was at this moment in time. He summed up the gist of his message by saying:
"My message to you tonight is straightforward," he said. "It is this: Keep the commandments."
I've said this before, but it seems that all I really need to know, I learned in Primary.
Want to know some of Paco's other thoughts on some of the specific talks? I'll be blogging on a few in the weeks that come. You might also follow me on Facebook and Twitter if you've got a lot of free time on your hands, because he was active on both fronts trying to #sharegoodness. Like you do.
Saturday, September 26, 2015
First Impressions and Second Chances
Topic Number 3 in "Paco's Series on Tips for Getting a Date, But Then Again This Is Paco Blogging Here; He May Not Really Know What He's Talking about, So Take It for Whatever You Will" is: first impressions.
When it comes to the subject of first impressions, I'll never forget when I first saw a missionary I served with, Elder Flores. I first met this elder in the mission office, on the day he arrived in the field. We never spoke at that time, but I sensed that he looked at me kind of . . . strange. It was an odd feeling, and it left me feeling like the guy just didn't like the look of me very much.
I'm happy to say that my initial impression was dead wrong. I didn't see this elder again for several months until I was transferred to serve in the same zone with him in the city of Cusco, Peru. My bad first impression of him dissolved when I shook his hand, got to know him a little bit better, and in time realized that he and I shared much of the same sense of humor and laughed at many of the same things.
Something else I learned about that earlier first impression: Going into the mission field was Elder Flores's first time outside of his native city and that I was, literally, the first gringo (American) he had ever laid eyes on. For him, that first impression was one far different.
Due to a temporary transfer that occurred not long after this, Elder Flores and I even served together as companions for most of a week, and they were joyful days for us both. I learned something about humility from him, because although he stuttered when he spoke, this struggle had given him strength to, at the same time, testify of gospel truths with power and assurance.
What this has to do with meeting new people/dating: First impressions (at least mine) are not always correct. When we meet someone else for the first time, we must consider the possibility that that person might be having a bad day for any number of reasons, or we might be having a bad day, or any number of other issues may factor in to our perception of that person or that person's perception of us.
Sometimes, second, third, fourth, and more impressions give us a pretty good idea of what a person may be like. Sometimes, it takes a few more.
At the same time, no, I'm not saying you should accept a date with someone you already know is not compatible with you or about whom you have some seriously bad vibes.
I know you ladies know what I'm talking about here, because essentially every Jane Austen story and every chick flick involves a romance between two people who instantly hate each other when they first meet and who then grow to love each other over time.
When it comes to the subject of first impressions, I'll never forget when I first saw a missionary I served with, Elder Flores. I first met this elder in the mission office, on the day he arrived in the field. We never spoke at that time, but I sensed that he looked at me kind of . . . strange. It was an odd feeling, and it left me feeling like the guy just didn't like the look of me very much.
I'm happy to say that my initial impression was dead wrong. I didn't see this elder again for several months until I was transferred to serve in the same zone with him in the city of Cusco, Peru. My bad first impression of him dissolved when I shook his hand, got to know him a little bit better, and in time realized that he and I shared much of the same sense of humor and laughed at many of the same things.
Due to a temporary transfer that occurred not long after this, Elder Flores and I even served together as companions for most of a week, and they were joyful days for us both. I learned something about humility from him, because although he stuttered when he spoke, this struggle had given him strength to, at the same time, testify of gospel truths with power and assurance.
What this has to do with meeting new people/dating: First impressions (at least mine) are not always correct. When we meet someone else for the first time, we must consider the possibility that that person might be having a bad day for any number of reasons, or we might be having a bad day, or any number of other issues may factor in to our perception of that person or that person's perception of us.
Sometimes, second, third, fourth, and more impressions give us a pretty good idea of what a person may be like. Sometimes, it takes a few more.
At the same time, no, I'm not saying you should accept a date with someone you already know is not compatible with you or about whom you have some seriously bad vibes.
I know you ladies know what I'm talking about here, because essentially every Jane Austen story and every chick flick involves a romance between two people who instantly hate each other when they first meet and who then grow to love each other over time.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Deserters and Dessert-ers
In addition to being approachable, I feel like mentioning something else tonight that I think may help those who feel like they may not necessarily be meeting the kind of people they wish to meet: be a "dessert-er" and not "deserter."
A friend of mine in the ward coined this phrase, and I use it here with his permission.
One night after institute, this friend and I were talking and were enjoying some of the cookies provided for our refreshment following that night's class. As we were doing so, he observed that a large number of those in attendance got up and headed out for the parking lot shortly after class concluded. He expressed his dismay at this, saying that he preferred those nights far more when "dessert-ers" (those who stayed around to eat dessert and socialize) outweighed the "deserters" (those who promptly headed headed home, abandoning the building as if it were on fire).
In the same vein, I had a conversation with a different friend in the ward recently who expressed this thought: "There are a lot of beautiful girls in our ward, but so many of them don't hang around after church so I can get a chance to know them better. Within a few minutes after the third block gets out, most of them are gone. There are plenty I'd like to get to know, but I'm not going to run out to the parking lot and hunt them down for the opportunity."
From my own perspective, I might add: It's okay to play a little hard to get, whatever you think that cliché might mean. But playing the Osama bin Laden version of hard-to-get makes things much more difficult for us all.
In addition to being approachable, are we lingering a little bit longer at ward or singles events?
I realize, of course, that we're all busy and have lives outside of Church-related events and that people have things and jobs and homework, and some even have kids, while others have TiVo'd programs they'd like to get home to sometimes. Sometimes.
But even if it's just a few extra minutes, consider maybe spending a little bit more time at the meat market next time you go shopping. If you're going to be a carnivore, you'll find that's where the meat is.
A friend of mine in the ward coined this phrase, and I use it here with his permission.
One night after institute, this friend and I were talking and were enjoying some of the cookies provided for our refreshment following that night's class. As we were doing so, he observed that a large number of those in attendance got up and headed out for the parking lot shortly after class concluded. He expressed his dismay at this, saying that he preferred those nights far more when "dessert-ers" (those who stayed around to eat dessert and socialize) outweighed the "deserters" (those who promptly headed headed home, abandoning the building as if it were on fire).
In the same vein, I had a conversation with a different friend in the ward recently who expressed this thought: "There are a lot of beautiful girls in our ward, but so many of them don't hang around after church so I can get a chance to know them better. Within a few minutes after the third block gets out, most of them are gone. There are plenty I'd like to get to know, but I'm not going to run out to the parking lot and hunt them down for the opportunity."
From my own perspective, I might add: It's okay to play a little hard to get, whatever you think that cliché might mean. But playing the Osama bin Laden version of hard-to-get makes things much more difficult for us all.
In addition to being approachable, are we lingering a little bit longer at ward or singles events?
I realize, of course, that we're all busy and have lives outside of Church-related events and that people have things and jobs and homework, and some even have kids, while others have TiVo'd programs they'd like to get home to sometimes. Sometimes.
But even if it's just a few extra minutes, consider maybe spending a little bit more time at the meat market next time you go shopping. If you're going to be a carnivore, you'll find that's where the meat is.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Being Approachable
Over on the Island of Misfit Toys, we had our biannual stake conference a few weeks back. Elder Becerra, an Area Seventy, was the presiding authority. To prepare us for the conference, he invited us to complete a few simple tasks such as attending the temple, re-reading our patriarchal blessings, reading one of President Uchtdorf's recent general conference addresses, and . . . going on a date?!
That "simple task," you say, huh? Yes, this was part of his counsel to all adult members of the stake. While for married couples in the other wards of our stake this is something very easy to do, it tends to cause a great deal of anxiety and to be a little bit harder for the Misfit Toys to carry out. When it comes to dates, we have no guarantees.
Then again, it's not an impossible task, either. We believe, after all, that there is no commandment given where there is not a way to accomplish it, do we not? (See 1 Nephi 3:7.)
After this counsel was delivered in sacrament meeting, reactions to the go-on-a-date part of the counsel were varied. I heard a number of different people, both male and female, express doubt about being able to do it. I even observed a few of the sisters say in effect that they could comply with all of the requests only if "by some miracle" they were asked on a date.
About the same time, I came across this quote in a book I was reading:
"The Lord will not translate one's good hopes and desires and intentions into works. Each of us must do that for himself." -Spencer W. Kimball
So, how does that apply to dating, then? What can any of us do to improve our chances of getting a date?
I do not share any of this to single out (no pun intended) any one individual nor to make anyone, especially the sisters, feel bad about a lack of dates. Asking out is largely the man's responsibility, after all, and it is a weight we are frequently reminded that we bear when we attend the priesthood session of general conference, firesides, elders quorum meetings, etc. (In other words, we have constant reminders.) It seems like there is plenty of unnecessary guilt enough already to go around for all of us.
Also, I realize that there are many sisters who may read this who are actively trying to do all of the right things and who are striving meet potential marriage partners but who, for whatever reason, are not getting the kind of dates they want, or even a date at all. It's a darn shame, and I recognize that it is. I'm on your side. I want us all to succeed and to be happy. I know that many of the brethren are frustrated, too, as I wrote in a recent post, and a great deal of that frustration stems from things that some of the ladies do that often unintentionally may make them appear to be uninterested or indifferent when this is not actually the case.
Instead of raking anyone over the coals, instead my hope is to provide some sense of encouragement and to offer, from my own humble point-of-view, a few suggestions that help me personally as a male attempting to obtain female companionship. None of us, male or female, is necessarily powerless when it comes to getting a date, and there a number of things we can do to pursue one without waiting around for the phone to ring or the text message alert to chime and an aforementioned "miracle" to occur.
I start tonight with the phrase "being approachable." Getting a date starts with meeting people, and that begins with being approachable.
I recently read an LDS Living article in which the writer suggested that singles "must always be on the lookout. We must go places where we would want our future spouse to be; we must be approachable; we must be open to possibilities; and we must do those things consistently" (emphasis added).
I googled the phrase "be approachable," and I came up with this great blog post on the subject for those who may have social anxiety (i.e. "shyness") about meeting members of the opposite sex. Among its simple pieces of advice are to smile and to use eye contact. Doing these simple things can help open doors for you and for me, and even the most shy among us can do them without having to say a word.
When it comes to actually speaking, well, if you feel shy about conversing with the opposite sex, start with a close family member, a trusted friend, or a work colleague you get along well with, and practice the art of conversation. Learn to ask questions and to listen to the other person's replies. Be interested in others and in their opinions, goals, and hobbies.
I recently had a conversation, or at least tried to, with a very pretty sister in my ward whom I'd admired from afar for a while. I found this attempt difficult because she gave only one-word answers when I asked her questions. She didn't seem interested in talking to me at all as a friend, let alone as a potential date. She did not seem "approachable" at all.
Sisters, I know that we can give off this vibe sometimes, too. It goes both ways.
No one can be "approachable," either, who is always at home reading books, or playing video games, or watching sports or sitcoms endlessly on TV, or always sitting by or talking to the same people week in and week out. There is a time and a place for any one of these things in moderation, certainly, but someone who is always doing "something else" or is always following the same exact routine is far less "approachable" than those who show up at meetings and activities and put themselves into places where they can meet new people.
Again, none of these tactics will guarantee you a date. Part of the gospel we embrace includes the concept that we must "cheerfully do all things that lie in our power" (D&C 123:17), which means that we exercise faith by endeavoring to control those things we can control, and then we will see the blessing(s) come in the Lord's due time. But being approachable will multiply your chances at getting a date exponentially, and it will help out anyone socially far more than not being approachable.
That "simple task," you say, huh? Yes, this was part of his counsel to all adult members of the stake. While for married couples in the other wards of our stake this is something very easy to do, it tends to cause a great deal of anxiety and to be a little bit harder for the Misfit Toys to carry out. When it comes to dates, we have no guarantees.
Then again, it's not an impossible task, either. We believe, after all, that there is no commandment given where there is not a way to accomplish it, do we not? (See 1 Nephi 3:7.)
After this counsel was delivered in sacrament meeting, reactions to the go-on-a-date part of the counsel were varied. I heard a number of different people, both male and female, express doubt about being able to do it. I even observed a few of the sisters say in effect that they could comply with all of the requests only if "by some miracle" they were asked on a date.
About the same time, I came across this quote in a book I was reading:
"The Lord will not translate one's good hopes and desires and intentions into works. Each of us must do that for himself." -Spencer W. Kimball
So, how does that apply to dating, then? What can any of us do to improve our chances of getting a date?
I do not share any of this to single out (no pun intended) any one individual nor to make anyone, especially the sisters, feel bad about a lack of dates. Asking out is largely the man's responsibility, after all, and it is a weight we are frequently reminded that we bear when we attend the priesthood session of general conference, firesides, elders quorum meetings, etc. (In other words, we have constant reminders.) It seems like there is plenty of unnecessary guilt enough already to go around for all of us.
Also, I realize that there are many sisters who may read this who are actively trying to do all of the right things and who are striving meet potential marriage partners but who, for whatever reason, are not getting the kind of dates they want, or even a date at all. It's a darn shame, and I recognize that it is. I'm on your side. I want us all to succeed and to be happy. I know that many of the brethren are frustrated, too, as I wrote in a recent post, and a great deal of that frustration stems from things that some of the ladies do that often unintentionally may make them appear to be uninterested or indifferent when this is not actually the case.
Instead of raking anyone over the coals, instead my hope is to provide some sense of encouragement and to offer, from my own humble point-of-view, a few suggestions that help me personally as a male attempting to obtain female companionship. None of us, male or female, is necessarily powerless when it comes to getting a date, and there a number of things we can do to pursue one without waiting around for the phone to ring or the text message alert to chime and an aforementioned "miracle" to occur.
I start tonight with the phrase "being approachable." Getting a date starts with meeting people, and that begins with being approachable.I recently read an LDS Living article in which the writer suggested that singles "must always be on the lookout. We must go places where we would want our future spouse to be; we must be approachable; we must be open to possibilities; and we must do those things consistently" (emphasis added).
I googled the phrase "be approachable," and I came up with this great blog post on the subject for those who may have social anxiety (i.e. "shyness") about meeting members of the opposite sex. Among its simple pieces of advice are to smile and to use eye contact. Doing these simple things can help open doors for you and for me, and even the most shy among us can do them without having to say a word.
When it comes to actually speaking, well, if you feel shy about conversing with the opposite sex, start with a close family member, a trusted friend, or a work colleague you get along well with, and practice the art of conversation. Learn to ask questions and to listen to the other person's replies. Be interested in others and in their opinions, goals, and hobbies.
I recently had a conversation, or at least tried to, with a very pretty sister in my ward whom I'd admired from afar for a while. I found this attempt difficult because she gave only one-word answers when I asked her questions. She didn't seem interested in talking to me at all as a friend, let alone as a potential date. She did not seem "approachable" at all.
Sisters, I know that we can give off this vibe sometimes, too. It goes both ways.
No one can be "approachable," either, who is always at home reading books, or playing video games, or watching sports or sitcoms endlessly on TV, or always sitting by or talking to the same people week in and week out. There is a time and a place for any one of these things in moderation, certainly, but someone who is always doing "something else" or is always following the same exact routine is far less "approachable" than those who show up at meetings and activities and put themselves into places where they can meet new people.
Again, none of these tactics will guarantee you a date. Part of the gospel we embrace includes the concept that we must "cheerfully do all things that lie in our power" (D&C 123:17), which means that we exercise faith by endeavoring to control those things we can control, and then we will see the blessing(s) come in the Lord's due time. But being approachable will multiply your chances at getting a date exponentially, and it will help out anyone socially far more than not being approachable.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Improvables: Guest Star
As I mentioned in a recent post, I participated in a whole lot of improv in the month of August. But they were all memorable performances, and I'm grateful for the opportunities to entertain audiences with my fellow improvisers.
Among these shows was a Friday night in which we were joined by our first-ever guest performer, beginning what we hope is at least a semi-regular tradition of guest performers joining us on stage for a one-night-only gig. On this particular Friday, it was Todd Wente, who was already rather well known by CenterPoint audiences for his participation in several musicals and plays over the years, and who is also a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
As it turned out, Todd is quite a natural at improvising, which was no surprise at all to those who had performed with him previously in other productions (it was my first time working with him). It was an enjoyable night for all involved, because we're talking about improv, of course.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Hims of the Church
It's not you; it's a lack of hims. Really.
Perhaps you've read or heard about a recent article in Time magazine in which it is asserted that the LDS Church is undergoing a "dating" or a "marriage crisis," and this is because "women are in oversupply." Because "there are now 150 women for every 100 Mormon men in the state of Utah," "heterosexual men are more likely to play the field, and heterosexual women must compete for men's attention." The article even goes on to claim that several of these women are resorting to plastic surgery in order to compete and make themselves stand out from their peers.
"Yes, Mormon men take full advantage." Claims one interviewee, "'They wait for the next, more perfect woman.'"
Another woman interviewed stated that several friends "wound up marrying outside the religion . . . simply because they had no other options," while other friends, "all good LDS girls! . . . gave up on finding a husband and decided to have children on their own."
One female who commented on the post said she is LDS and that where she lives "the men here ARE lazy both outside and inside of the church."
You must certainly get a lot of dates with the perception that 100% of your potential dating partners are lazy, sister, I thought to myself. It must certainly make them feel good about themselves and then want to take you out.
Yet another said, "For men, there are so many choices that choices are not made."
I wish this data made me feel better. In theory, it would lead me to believe that, statistically, all I need to do is show up on Sunday, walk into the chapel, and the aisles of the Island of Misfit Toys, within a matter of minutes, ought to be strewn with piles of the bodies of women clawing each other's eyes out for the right to become the future Mrs. Paco Nation.
"Ought" to. But it does not make me feel better about myself. Not at all, honestly. Because I'm trying, even as imperfect as I am. I'm making a conscious effort to meet people in my ward, even when it is out of my comfort zone. People think that because I do improv I don't have any comfort zone when it comes to meeting the opposite sex, but I can assure you, that comfort zone is quite small indeed.
I'm dating girls in my very large ward. Not one in particular for the moment, but different ones. And the results are . . . mixed. And yes, I realize that if you interviewed the girls I have asked out, they might give you the same reply about me. They might express frustration at some of my habits or tendencies or any other number of issues that make me less than perfect. I know I have them, and I am working on them. Yet the whole difficult process makes me as frustrated as the women interviewed for this article.
Another issue the article brings up: "Maybe it's the women who are holding out for the Mormon or Jewish George Clooney?"
You know, a good, temple recommend-holding guy with muscles and a jeep, who also stars in crappy Batman movies and bobs his head a lot.
I realize there is frustration among the sisters, but the brethren, I can assure you, are frustrated, too, albeit for different reasons. Men read articles like these (or sometimes get it from the priesthood session of general conference) and tend to walk away with the perception that all women are perfectly prioritized and are just dying to get married, while men are responsibility-avoiding, lollygagging, basement-dwelling morons and losers.
It's always good to get both sides of the issue, whatever the issue may be. And I think it's very important to remember that there can be two extremes on this particular issue: one believing that all available LDS men are lazy, uninspired, or self-important baboons, with perhaps the other claiming that all available LDS women are far too careful, choosy, aloof, and judgmental once they hit their 30s.
The truth, I think, lies somewhere in between these extremes. Generalities or stereotypes rarely help anybody. I think it boils down to finding just one good, honest, kind LDS man or woman who is doing his or her best and with whom you enjoy spending time, in spite of the incorrect stereotypes about either gender.
Personally, I'm not looking for perfection. I'm not trying to play any field. I'm not attempting to take "full advantage" of anyone, no matter what Time magazine may assert. I am making choices, even with so many choices available. I'd be happy with just one woman competing for my attention, because she wants to (and not because she has no other options). I'm really just looking for someone who can put up with me for a few hours every few nights, and also who doesn't mind the feel of facial hair on her face every now and then. I don't ask for much.
Is there a crisis? It may depend on whom you ask. Let's just not make things harder than they have to be.
Perhaps you've read or heard about a recent article in Time magazine in which it is asserted that the LDS Church is undergoing a "dating" or a "marriage crisis," and this is because "women are in oversupply." Because "there are now 150 women for every 100 Mormon men in the state of Utah," "heterosexual men are more likely to play the field, and heterosexual women must compete for men's attention." The article even goes on to claim that several of these women are resorting to plastic surgery in order to compete and make themselves stand out from their peers.
"Yes, Mormon men take full advantage." Claims one interviewee, "'They wait for the next, more perfect woman.'"
Another woman interviewed stated that several friends "wound up marrying outside the religion . . . simply because they had no other options," while other friends, "all good LDS girls! . . . gave up on finding a husband and decided to have children on their own."
One female who commented on the post said she is LDS and that where she lives "the men here ARE lazy both outside and inside of the church."
You must certainly get a lot of dates with the perception that 100% of your potential dating partners are lazy, sister, I thought to myself. It must certainly make them feel good about themselves and then want to take you out.
Yet another said, "For men, there are so many choices that choices are not made."
I wish this data made me feel better. In theory, it would lead me to believe that, statistically, all I need to do is show up on Sunday, walk into the chapel, and the aisles of the Island of Misfit Toys, within a matter of minutes, ought to be strewn with piles of the bodies of women clawing each other's eyes out for the right to become the future Mrs. Paco Nation.
I'm dating girls in my very large ward. Not one in particular for the moment, but different ones. And the results are . . . mixed. And yes, I realize that if you interviewed the girls I have asked out, they might give you the same reply about me. They might express frustration at some of my habits or tendencies or any other number of issues that make me less than perfect. I know I have them, and I am working on them. Yet the whole difficult process makes me as frustrated as the women interviewed for this article.
Another issue the article brings up: "Maybe it's the women who are holding out for the Mormon or Jewish George Clooney?"
You know, a good, temple recommend-holding guy with muscles and a jeep, who also stars in crappy Batman movies and bobs his head a lot.
I realize there is frustration among the sisters, but the brethren, I can assure you, are frustrated, too, albeit for different reasons. Men read articles like these (or sometimes get it from the priesthood session of general conference) and tend to walk away with the perception that all women are perfectly prioritized and are just dying to get married, while men are responsibility-avoiding, lollygagging, basement-dwelling morons and losers.
It's always good to get both sides of the issue, whatever the issue may be. And I think it's very important to remember that there can be two extremes on this particular issue: one believing that all available LDS men are lazy, uninspired, or self-important baboons, with perhaps the other claiming that all available LDS women are far too careful, choosy, aloof, and judgmental once they hit their 30s.
The truth, I think, lies somewhere in between these extremes. Generalities or stereotypes rarely help anybody. I think it boils down to finding just one good, honest, kind LDS man or woman who is doing his or her best and with whom you enjoy spending time, in spite of the incorrect stereotypes about either gender.
Personally, I'm not looking for perfection. I'm not trying to play any field. I'm not attempting to take "full advantage" of anyone, no matter what Time magazine may assert. I am making choices, even with so many choices available. I'd be happy with just one woman competing for my attention, because she wants to (and not because she has no other options). I'm really just looking for someone who can put up with me for a few hours every few nights, and also who doesn't mind the feel of facial hair on her face every now and then. I don't ask for much.
Is there a crisis? It may depend on whom you ask. Let's just not make things harder than they have to be.
Sunday, September 6, 2015
The Best Medicine
Is laughter really the best medicine?
Not necessarily. Sometimes, actual medicine is the best medicine when someone is ill. But laughter can sure help out a great deal.
Last Saturday, August 29, my fellow Improvables and I journeyed down to Orem to perform a fundraiser show on Centre Stage at Utah Valley University's Sorensen Building, the first time I have ever set foot on that campus (took me long enough, huh?). It was also my first improv show in Utah County in four years, since I last joined ComedySportz as Mr. Voice.
In addition, this night capped off a month (August) of eight total performances for me, which is easily the most I've tallied in any 31-day span as an improviser. Exhausting, yes, at times, but also very rewarding. Those eight shows stretched from Orem in the south up to Farr West in the north, and eastward to Camp Kostopulos (also a very rewarding volunteer experience).
The beneficiary of this fundraiser was a lady who is raising funds for a service dog to assist her with her seizures. Having a good friend who is aided by one of these special canines, I was happy to take part, and as a troupe we were willing and able to help her out in this worthy endeavor, even a little bit.
Not necessarily. Sometimes, actual medicine is the best medicine when someone is ill. But laughter can sure help out a great deal.
Last Saturday, August 29, my fellow Improvables and I journeyed down to Orem to perform a fundraiser show on Centre Stage at Utah Valley University's Sorensen Building, the first time I have ever set foot on that campus (took me long enough, huh?). It was also my first improv show in Utah County in four years, since I last joined ComedySportz as Mr. Voice.
In addition, this night capped off a month (August) of eight total performances for me, which is easily the most I've tallied in any 31-day span as an improviser. Exhausting, yes, at times, but also very rewarding. Those eight shows stretched from Orem in the south up to Farr West in the north, and eastward to Camp Kostopulos (also a very rewarding volunteer experience).
The beneficiary of this fundraiser was a lady who is raising funds for a service dog to assist her with her seizures. Having a good friend who is aided by one of these special canines, I was happy to take part, and as a troupe we were willing and able to help her out in this worthy endeavor, even a little bit.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
August Family Dinner
How do we spend our family dinners together on a warm summer evening?
A lot like this, with the s'mores on the menu and good times all around.
A lot like this, with the s'mores on the menu and good times all around.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Jedi for Hire
I am more than a month late in posting this (said event took place in late July), but here goes.
Sometimes—as in, this was the first time this has happened—my friends hire me to dress up like a Jedi and to come to their children's Disney-themed birthday party to teach these kids and their many friends about the ways of the Force and to lead them in a simulated Jedi light saber battle. It's really fun (sarcasm; it's not) to get dressed in those warm Jedi robes on a hot summer night.
Yes, this really happened. And I have pictures to prove it.
Whom better to ask, right? Plus, they sealed the deal by feeding me barbecued hot dogs and topped it off with pineapple whip (sp?) treats to end the evening.
The idea was that I would talk briefly about the ways of the Force, so I spent at least a half-hour on Wookieepedia boning up on Jedi knowledge. I got about 10 seconds into my summary of this topic before I had lost all of the kids' collective attention spans.
Then, we put the kids on a plank and had them face off with foam "light sabers," this idea being that they "winner" would be the one who knocked the other kid off of the "board." This quickly devolved into the kids attacking especially me with the foam sabers, then using some of the very large cucumbers in this backyard to also pelt me for several minutes.
Do I sound in any way like this was a negative experience for me? Though it was chaotic at times, it wasn't negative in the least. I got to catch up with some old friends, the Lee clan, and meet their kids. Though I left with a few bruises, both from the cucumbers and to my ego, I enjoyed myself immensely when all was said and done.
Next time I'm hired out like this, though, I better get 15,000 credits when we get to Alderaan.
Monday, August 31, 2015
Partial Recall
Not that long ago at institute, a guest speaker taught us about a concept called memory triggers, or anchors. These are sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and moments of touch that, in turn, trigger memories of similar occurrences
My own anchors are many.
Patrick Swayze's "She's like the Wind" carries me to our basement on Shari Circle, where we had this newfangled device called a Nintendo and played several hours of Kid Icarus, Metroid, Rygar, and more while that song, among many others from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack et al, played in the background on a radio. I hear Whitney Houston's "How Will I Know?", and I'm transported back to the roller rink at Classic Skating, where I spent many summer Saturday afternoons between the fourth and sixth grades. Johnny Hates Jazz's "Shattered Dreams" plays, and I'm in my family's van, on our way to another day at the beach in sunny Puerto Rico.
By themselves, these are not particularly meaningful songs per se, but they are attached to key points of my formative years.
There's a particular smell of gas that takes me back to my first days in Peru, walking along the cobbled streets in the city of Cusco, because it is identical to that used by the stove my pensionista cooked my meals on. I don't know what this particular smell is due to, I know it well when I sense it. It's almost like deja vu, it's so surreal.
The smell of coffee actually usually reminds me only of airports. Growing up in Bountiful, Utah, of course, you don't smell coffee that much, but I have always smelled it whenever I travel by air, and memories of airports on three continents crop up with a single whiff.
The taste of an afternoon tea or breakfast at my Aunty Mary's home in England? There's nothing to compare to either one.
To be sure, there are, naturally, also memory triggers or anchors that bring back negative emotions or recollections. You take the good, you take the bad; you take them both, I guess. (Insert memory of reruns on TV here.)
The mind, along with its cache of memories, is an amazing instrument. Its recall is incredible sometimes.
Just a random thought to close: Someday, many years from now, someplace beyond this mortal coil, or perhaps not that far from it at all, will we watch a movie of our lives, and every moment will come flooding back? Or will we will listen to a song, smell a familiar smell, or taste a beloved treat, and it will instead all come back to us fully, rather than partially, as it does now?
My own anchors are many.
Patrick Swayze's "She's like the Wind" carries me to our basement on Shari Circle, where we had this newfangled device called a Nintendo and played several hours of Kid Icarus, Metroid, Rygar, and more while that song, among many others from the Dirty Dancing soundtrack et al, played in the background on a radio. I hear Whitney Houston's "How Will I Know?", and I'm transported back to the roller rink at Classic Skating, where I spent many summer Saturday afternoons between the fourth and sixth grades. Johnny Hates Jazz's "Shattered Dreams" plays, and I'm in my family's van, on our way to another day at the beach in sunny Puerto Rico.
By themselves, these are not particularly meaningful songs per se, but they are attached to key points of my formative years.
There's a particular smell of gas that takes me back to my first days in Peru, walking along the cobbled streets in the city of Cusco, because it is identical to that used by the stove my pensionista cooked my meals on. I don't know what this particular smell is due to, I know it well when I sense it. It's almost like deja vu, it's so surreal.The smell of coffee actually usually reminds me only of airports. Growing up in Bountiful, Utah, of course, you don't smell coffee that much, but I have always smelled it whenever I travel by air, and memories of airports on three continents crop up with a single whiff.
The taste of an afternoon tea or breakfast at my Aunty Mary's home in England? There's nothing to compare to either one.
To be sure, there are, naturally, also memory triggers or anchors that bring back negative emotions or recollections. You take the good, you take the bad; you take them both, I guess. (Insert memory of reruns on TV here.)
The mind, along with its cache of memories, is an amazing instrument. Its recall is incredible sometimes.
Just a random thought to close: Someday, many years from now, someplace beyond this mortal coil, or perhaps not that far from it at all, will we watch a movie of our lives, and every moment will come flooding back? Or will we will listen to a song, smell a familiar smell, or taste a beloved treat, and it will instead all come back to us fully, rather than partially, as it does now?
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
You Don't Have to Try So Hard
The troupe has a YouTube channel now, and in case I haven't already mentioned it, you can subscribe to it here.
As I watched this particular video, because I was not present at this filming session, I observed how striking these ladies, whom I usually see with makeup on, also looked without makeup on. They're attractive people to start with—ain't no ugly people in my troupe—and it was just a different and unexpected glimpse at people I've known and worked with for years.
Speaking of which, last week's video was the "Makeup Challenge," in which two male members of our troupe applied makeup to two female members. The tables were then turned, and the ladies had a chance to apply makeup on the guys. I found it very amusing.
So will you. If not, you are wrong, and you WILL be assimilated.
As I watched this particular video, because I was not present at this filming session, I observed how striking these ladies, whom I usually see with makeup on, also looked without makeup on. They're attractive people to start with—ain't no ugly people in my troupe—and it was just a different and unexpected glimpse at people I've known and worked with for years.
This, then, lead me to a thought that I've kind of really believed anyway for quite a while now but have not expressed either vocally or in print. It is simply this, and for all of the females who may be reading this post, take it for whatever my two cents' may be worth:
I get the impression that some of you might feel like you need to be dolled up in your Sunday best, or some other formal attire, with your hair combed or cut or looking a certain way or a specific color, and all of your makeup needs to be just perfect, and only in this manner can you be perceived to be beautiful or attractive. And I do not believe this necessarily to be true.
I get the impression that some of you might feel like you need to be dolled up in your Sunday best, or some other formal attire, with your hair combed or cut or looking a certain way or a specific color, and all of your makeup needs to be just perfect, and only in this manner can you be perceived to be beautiful or attractive. And I do not believe this necessarily to be true.
Please do not misconstrue what I'm saying. Granted, if this is what makes you "feel" beautiful, then do it. If dressing casually and comfortably is your preferred way to go, whether you're hitting the town or just showing up to spend time with friends, then do that, too. Certainly, there are times and places for both types of attire.
Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I find so many of you just as attractive whether you're wearing jeans and a t-shirt or playing sports than if you were dressed to attend a wedding or a formal dance. I'm not sure some of you realize just how good you look much of the time when, perhaps, you might feel you're not looking your best, or dressed to the nines, or whatever. Things don't have to appear or be "perfect" for you to look your best.
Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I find so many of you just as attractive whether you're wearing jeans and a t-shirt or playing sports than if you were dressed to attend a wedding or a formal dance. I'm not sure some of you realize just how good you look much of the time when, perhaps, you might feel you're not looking your best, or dressed to the nines, or whatever. Things don't have to appear or be "perfect" for you to look your best.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Jurassic Art
Last week, I snapped this photo after family dinner:
Were you looking at the VHS copy of the "Mystery Science Theater 3000" episode "Pod People" up on the shelf? Well, if you were, then you missed the dinosaur drawing on the chalkboard below it by my seven-year-old nephew Jackson.
At age seven, Jack is too young to see the PG-13-rated Jurassic World just yet, but he and I have been playing LEGO Jurassic World on the Xbox 360, and we love it.
Plus, well, kids and dinosaurs. Go figure.
Were you looking at the VHS copy of the "Mystery Science Theater 3000" episode "Pod People" up on the shelf? Well, if you were, then you missed the dinosaur drawing on the chalkboard below it by my seven-year-old nephew Jackson.
At age seven, Jack is too young to see the PG-13-rated Jurassic World just yet, but he and I have been playing LEGO Jurassic World on the Xbox 360, and we love it.
Plus, well, kids and dinosaurs. Go figure.
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Words with Friends
Every so often, I open my mouth to say something, and then several other somethings come pouring out in rapid succession, and before I realize what I've done, a whole lot of ugliness has spilled out. This is not unlike a situation in which, say, the EPA, in its wisdom, were to "protect" the environment by spilling toxic waste into Colorado's Animas River.
Which the EPA would never do.
When you've had "words with friends," so to speak, the damage is often very difficult to clean up or repair. And even when you feel like you've done all you can possibly do to make amends, some scars and distrust nevertheless remain.
Long story short: A good friend and I got into a heated discussion last week, and this occurred online. So, naturally, I said some stupid things I wouldn't have the gumption to say to his face because, hey, I felt like he had done the same to me.
Long story short: A good friend and I got into a heated discussion last week, and this occurred online. So, naturally, I said some stupid things I wouldn't have the gumption to say to his face because, hey, I felt like he had done the same to me.
To social media: the cause of and solution to all of life's problems!
#ShareBadness
When it comes to hurt feelings between friends, usually one of two things happens: Those people never speak to each other again, or they ultimately end up deciding that they value the other person's friendship far above whatever petty difference(s) may have driven a wedge between them and make amends, no matter who's at fault or whose pride has been wounded more.
I am fortunate enough to say that the latter was the case with my friend and me. After talking things out for more than two hours over burgers and ice cream at McDonald's, like real men do, we hugged it out and agreed to let bygones be bygones. I'm grateful that this person had the greatness of character not only to do this but also to tell me some things about myself that I needed to hear, whether or not I wanted to hear them, so that I can be a better friend to him and to others in our social circle in the future. It's always a good idea to get both sides of the story.
In fact, I'd even dare say that our friendship is now stronger not because of our disagreement but because we bounced back from it.
In fact, I'd even dare say that our friendship is now stronger not because of our disagreement but because we bounced back from it.
And that made for a happy meal.
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
That "Other" Book of Mormon Musical
Over the weekend, I had the chance to go and see the Book of Mormon musical.
No, not The Book of Mormon Musical, but rather Nephi & the Sword of Laban, which is based on (the horror!) a story from the pages of the actual Book of Mormon.
Covering 1 Nephi and 2 Nephi while also omitting the Isaiah chapters of the latter book, this production was a noble effort to tell the faith-promoting spiritual and physical journey of Nephi and his family from Jerusalem to the New World. Admittedly, there were moments that reminded me of both the cheesiness of Saturday's Warrior as well as the purposefully cheesy Waiting for Guffman.
Nevertheless, the story flowed well, the songs were composed and performed with heart, and the cast put on an admirable performance. It was way better than that "other" musical.
But you haven't even seen that "other" musical, you say.
No, I haven't seen it. I don't want to, and I don't need to to know that it's pure garbage. I know from the other productions of the show's "creative" team that I don't like their humor in the least. I don't find "anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy" about the show (Articles of Faith 1:13). Quite frankly, I'm baffled by those of my faith who think it's all that and a bag of chips.
Well, to each his own.
Naturally, Nephi & the Sword of Laban was also way better than Cats.
No, not The Book of Mormon Musical, but rather Nephi & the Sword of Laban, which is based on (the horror!) a story from the pages of the actual Book of Mormon.
Covering 1 Nephi and 2 Nephi while also omitting the Isaiah chapters of the latter book, this production was a noble effort to tell the faith-promoting spiritual and physical journey of Nephi and his family from Jerusalem to the New World. Admittedly, there were moments that reminded me of both the cheesiness of Saturday's Warrior as well as the purposefully cheesy Waiting for Guffman.Nevertheless, the story flowed well, the songs were composed and performed with heart, and the cast put on an admirable performance. It was way better than that "other" musical.
But you haven't even seen that "other" musical, you say.
No, I haven't seen it. I don't want to, and I don't need to to know that it's pure garbage. I know from the other productions of the show's "creative" team that I don't like their humor in the least. I don't find "anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy" about the show (Articles of Faith 1:13). Quite frankly, I'm baffled by those of my faith who think it's all that and a bag of chips.
Well, to each his own.
Naturally, Nephi & the Sword of Laban was also way better than Cats.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Ton of Bricks
Life moves pretty fast sometimes—and not always in positive, Ferris Bueller kinds of ways.
Six months ago, I met up at the local Village Inn with one of my troupe's fans. Over breakfast, as he had outlined in his phone call to me the day before, he excitedly elaborated on his plans to propose marriage to his girlfriend. Their first date had been attending one of our shows a few months previously, and he wanted to bring things full circle by moving ahead with his plan at that week's performance. We were more than willing to help him out, and we devised a scheme that everyone in the troupe was in on.
The plan—as much as you can plan something in improv, anyway—went off without a hitch. He asked, and she said yes. The audience stood up and cheered for what seemed like five straight minutes. It was a beautiful moment that I will not soon forget.
I wish that their story ended here.
However, just a few days ago, this young man's life was cut short in an instant. The life that this couple had started to build together had been brought to an abrupt halt almost as quickly as it had begun.
I don't understand it.
I've learned, and I'm learning, that there are many things that occur in this life that make absolutely no sense whatsoever. They are not fair. They are not right. At times, they seem cruel and pitiless. Nevertheless, they occur, and there is nothing any of us can do about them.
I still do not have the appropriate words for when a friend is grieving. I do not think I ever will. I do not pretend to make sense of horrific pieces of news like the one about this friend's unexpected passing. I will not try to do so tonight.
I will say, though, that a crucial part of faith—of my own faith, at least—is trust in our Heavenly Father's plan. Part of that trust includes trust in the fact that these inexplicable things will happen, and we won't know the reasons during the here and the now. Nevertheless, my faith is that they will given someday.
Another crucial part of that trust is that all will be made right in the end, and that He will wipe away all of our tears. Further, He will restore to us beyond our comprehension our losses and heartaches suffered in this mortal coil and will reward us according to the desires of our hearts.
I know it. Even when there's so much I don't know.
Six months ago, I met up at the local Village Inn with one of my troupe's fans. Over breakfast, as he had outlined in his phone call to me the day before, he excitedly elaborated on his plans to propose marriage to his girlfriend. Their first date had been attending one of our shows a few months previously, and he wanted to bring things full circle by moving ahead with his plan at that week's performance. We were more than willing to help him out, and we devised a scheme that everyone in the troupe was in on.
The plan—as much as you can plan something in improv, anyway—went off without a hitch. He asked, and she said yes. The audience stood up and cheered for what seemed like five straight minutes. It was a beautiful moment that I will not soon forget.
I wish that their story ended here.
However, just a few days ago, this young man's life was cut short in an instant. The life that this couple had started to build together had been brought to an abrupt halt almost as quickly as it had begun.
I don't understand it.
I've learned, and I'm learning, that there are many things that occur in this life that make absolutely no sense whatsoever. They are not fair. They are not right. At times, they seem cruel and pitiless. Nevertheless, they occur, and there is nothing any of us can do about them.
I still do not have the appropriate words for when a friend is grieving. I do not think I ever will. I do not pretend to make sense of horrific pieces of news like the one about this friend's unexpected passing. I will not try to do so tonight.
I will say, though, that a crucial part of faith—of my own faith, at least—is trust in our Heavenly Father's plan. Part of that trust includes trust in the fact that these inexplicable things will happen, and we won't know the reasons during the here and the now. Nevertheless, my faith is that they will given someday.
Another crucial part of that trust is that all will be made right in the end, and that He will wipe away all of our tears. Further, He will restore to us beyond our comprehension our losses and heartaches suffered in this mortal coil and will reward us according to the desires of our hearts.
I know it. Even when there's so much I don't know.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Peru's Independence Day
Out of pure luck, I ran into an old friend at lunch the other day. I hadn't seen Wenceslao in about 15 years.
The occasion? I went to grab a Peruvian lunch for Peru's independence day, which is July 28. I was unable to go on the 28th, though, and instead I went for lunch on the next day. It's a good thing that happened, because I was able to catch up with my old friend, who just happened to be there at the same time, too. We served together in the Peru Lima Central Mission.
Sometimes, timing (or delayed timing) is everything.
The occasion? I went to grab a Peruvian lunch for Peru's independence day, which is July 28. I was unable to go on the 28th, though, and instead I went for lunch on the next day. It's a good thing that happened, because I was able to catch up with my old friend, who just happened to be there at the same time, too. We served together in the Peru Lima Central Mission.
Sometimes, timing (or delayed timing) is everything.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
July Family Dinner
Another Sunday, and another fantastic family dinner following church meetings today. Dave's and Jessica's clan included some sick kids recuperating at home, so unfortunately we missed seeing them, but everyone else gathered for a good meal and good company.
Biz's and Jeff's little bundle Kate is now nearly four months old and is slowly growing up before our eyes. Seventeen-year-old Kylee and Kate, my oldest and youngest nieces, respectively, posed for the above picture as we waited for the meal to begin.
Biz's and Jeff's little bundle Kate is now nearly four months old and is slowly growing up before our eyes. Seventeen-year-old Kylee and Kate, my oldest and youngest nieces, respectively, posed for the above picture as we waited for the meal to begin.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Llama Burger
During my two years' time in Peru, I saw llamas frequently, as you might imagine. I also have clothing made from llama fur. The other night, I finally tasted llama meat.
The Burger Bar up in Roy always has an interesting variety of exotic meats in addition to such greasy spoon favorites as fries, shakes, etc., and llama meat was certainly no disappointment. Does it taste like chicken?
No. I would say it tastes rather like . . . well, beef. If you'd have served me llama meat and told me it was a hamburger, I'd have believed you.
The Burger Bar up in Roy always has an interesting variety of exotic meats in addition to such greasy spoon favorites as fries, shakes, etc., and llama meat was certainly no disappointment. Does it taste like chicken?
No. I would say it tastes rather like . . . well, beef. If you'd have served me llama meat and told me it was a hamburger, I'd have believed you.
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
"Minions"
Earlier tonight, Dave, Luke, Kira, Jake, and I went to see the new movie Minions at the Centerville Megaplex. My friend Allison Olsen gave us free tickets for a work promotion, which was a nice gesture in and of itself; and the gravy on top of that was me winning, in addition, a $10 gift card to spend on treats.
As for the film, the humor was much the same as that of the Despicable Me franchise. We enjoyed a fun evening out together.
As for the film, the humor was much the same as that of the Despicable Me franchise. We enjoyed a fun evening out together.
Sunday, July 12, 2015
Christian's Second Birthday Party
Ben's and Adi's little boy Christian celebrated his second birthday yesterday, for which much of the family gathered at their home in Centerville for a Curious George-themed party. Banana splits were served to the guests, and the birthday boy was showered with an enormity of presents.
Grandma Plowman and Christian's three-month-old cousin Kate were among the many attendees.
At the close of the festivities, the birthday boy insisted on going swimming in his birthday suit. 'Cause it was his party.
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