THE POWELLS

Happy Valentines Day!

2012-02-15T09:53:00.004-07:00

We aren't big Valentines people in our little house. We acknowledge it in simple gestures and leave it at that. I am pretty sure I can find better things for John to spend $20 or more on than flowers that are going to die in a week.

This year, I wasn't anticipating anything happening on the day of love. First off, I am sick! So congested that laying down feels like someone is attempting to shatter my sinus cavity with a pressure gun (got the idea??). Sore throat, cough, etc. Not fun. Secondly, I am 9 months pregnant. Need I say more?

Well- at 7am on Tuesday, February 14th I jump into my car to head to work and all the sudden I hear a voice that sounds like my husbands coming from the RADIO! What!?! He made me a personalized mixed CD of love songs...

Cheesy? yeah! Adorably-awesome-I-love-him-so-much? ABSOLUTELY!

Made my day! The songs were awesome and I listened to it on repeat while at work.

What did I do for him? Nothing!! How lame. I went and bought him a card and a chocolate heart attack ice cream treat on my way home from work. I gave him a big hug. and attempted to take a nap for the rest of the afternoon.

Seriously, I have some making up to do... but as of now, I am using the P card to get out of jail on this one. My husband rocks.

Lincoln is a lucky boy to have such a hunky dad. Since I am awesome at posting pictures, thought I would spice it up and add this gem.

Hope you all had a lovely lovers day! XOXO

Sh*! Peole Say to Pregnant Women

2012-01-23T08:38:00.002-07:00

There are these funny videos on facebook titled "Sh*! {so and so} Say". Well... I am going to make a video about the things that get said to pregnant women. I always thought it was kind of an exaggeration from the pregnant person as to what people were saying. Nope. It happens.

"I didn't even know you were pregnant! You hide it so well"
I am 33 weeks pregnant when you told me this. I have looked fairly large for some time {see comments below for a more accurate account as to how LARGE I look). So, I look this fat always? Awesome.

"I would hug you but I don't know if my arms would fit around you"
Ok. What do you do or say when all the other obese women of our church want to hug you? I hope you are just as sensitive to their large size as you are to mine.

"You are going back to work after your baby comes? I would hate to have that be me."
Well i am glad you get mother of the year and I am that heathen of a parent who has to work full time. Thank you for your support.

"Whoa. I can't even imagine how much bigger you can get. You sure you have a month left? He is going to be one large baby".
Thanks.

finally... *Yes. These REALLY did happen to me*

Christmas Eve (this day will forever be burned into my head)...

Walking into Target I get two women coming out and walk past me and start googling over how pregnant I am and I must be "having a Christmas baby!". No. I am not due for another 2 months. {Insert really not nice name right here}

Continue my walk into Target... Guy comes out of the DOUBLE sliding doors. Stops. Takes 4 steps to his right (away from me) and let's me pass. Thank you kind sir. Didn't realize I took up as much space to your side I as I do in front. I would hate for you to get too close and have me potentially explode my pregnancy all over you! {Insert a few not nice names right here}

Stop to look at some holiday cards on display (still in Target). "Well don't you just look like you are ready to POP!" (*Action* Strangers finger is about to POKE my belly... correction. Strangers finger POKES MY FREAKING BELLY!)
*Blinking* *Blinking*

I look at this woman in complete horror and without a second thought, spout out "I could say the same to you!" and run out of Target in complete hysteria. Yes folks, this person was of the bigger size. And yes, she probably didn't mean to be offensive. And yes, I might be going straight to hell of being so rude on the day before we celebrate Christ's birth. But really!?! Don't you EVER poke someones stomach. In fact, STOP touching other pregnant peoples stomach unless you KNOW them and have their approval. I could care less if you have experienced this same awesome adventure. I am not to be touched all the time.

I don't go around fondling you. I could care less if there is a human being in my belly. Stop touch me!! This is my miracle. Not yours! You want to pet something, go to a zoo. Get an animal. Not me.

And this is why I haven't blogged in a really long time.

Parental Wisdom...

2011-11-13T20:28:00.002-07:00

Do you remember your parents wise counsel growing up? This weekend has been super relaxing which is just what I needed. No stress. No work. No nothing. But I noticed a few things as I was laying around the past three days. My parents voice is in my head a lot. Silly things. Not so silly things. Here are a few that come to mind.

Leaving the refrigerator door open ... "Meghan, are you trying to cool the neighborhood?"

Walking around my house realizing that every light is on, "must we burn every light bulb".

Entering my not-so-clean bedroom, "In your house you can have your room look any way you want {apparently, I took this advice seriously}, but in our house, you will keep it clean".

(PS: when does the adult cleanliness kick in? I am still waiting)

and then I remember the silly ones "eat your crust, it puts hair on your chest". This one came from my father... almost every time we didn't want to eat something. Hair on your chest? Really?? I'm a girl. I don't want hair on my chest. But I get what he meant and thus, I eat the crust on my PB&J.

When my little pupster gets into trouble "silly puppy". My dad was notorious for excusing little doggie mishaps by uttering those two words. And I do as well.

I love knowing that my parents didn't just teach the little things growing up, they still hang around my head reminding me of those little things.

Happy Sunday people!

Money for chores??

2011-10-24T08:32:00.003-07:00

Hi Peeps,
I am going to rant for a split second...
Now, I get that I was raised a wee bit stricter than most other kids. With that being said, my outlook on how to raise my kids is a wee bit more stricter than others.

For example, I don't believe in allowance. I believe that all people in a household should hold responsibility (appropriate for the age). I don't get paid for doing laundry or cleaning the dishes... why would I pay my kids? Rewards for good behavior, being helpful, and so on should come in other forms than handing them cash once a week.

I have been reading a few things about kids getting allowances for learning to do their chores. This includes young'ins learning to brush their teeth. Really? We need to give kids money for that?

Yikes... rant over.

A little winky means...

2011-10-11T09:19:00.002-07:00

It's a BoY!

Our little man was being stubborn and wouldn't show us his face. Head. or pretty much anything really vital to make sure he is developing A-OK. Although his spine, foot, and the only side shot of his hear we could get all looked good. :)

So I have to go back in 6 weeks for another ultrasound (bummmmmmer.... lol.)

We are so very exciting to add to all the boys that are already in both sides of our families. This little bambino is going to come into a rowdy family that is crazy, loud, sarcastic, and full of love.

We can't wait! ... apparently we will have to wait until March though. February due date is out and March is in. Geesh, talk about a baby that will ultimately just come when he wants to come.

XOXO.

What's it going to be?

2011-10-06T15:36:00.002-07:00

On Monday, we find out what this little P is going to be. Luckily it's a 50/50 chance (hopefully).

What's your guess?

According to the Chinese Calendar, I am having a boy. hmmm....

Guest Writer

2011-09-22T08:25:00.007-07:00

Ghost Writer is what this should be titled. I live under the alias name Rebel in the Powell home. "Alias name", you ask? That is right! Alias! My true ninja name is Shadow. Because that's what I do. I am a shadow of protection. How, you may be wondering, does this cute little thing {see above} protect? It's all about the persona I show... and the lethal weapon I truly am.

Sit back, relax {although don't get too relaxed... I could be lurking behind you ready to pounce}, and enjoy the read.

It all started at a young age...

I knew the trick to this young, newly married, girls heart. It was to act/ look victimized in the dog jail and to not make a SOUND when she held me. While all the other petty dogs cried and whimpered for their mommies, I held out. I knew she would go for the strong silent type.

After suffering through a major surgery, to which I showed to pain, I began my mission.

Shadow. Protector.

I became vigilant at watching during all moments. Including first time car ride to meet other human members of the Powell family.

It was during this trip that I encountered my first ferocious beast. I knew from the start what my mission was. Conquer the Saint. To this I say, mission accomplished.

First mission complete = training complete. I was ready.

I began developing a close bond with my female owner. Making sure she felt loved. Comfortable. Secure. All the while, she thinks I am just a simple minded dog. {insert chuckles of ridiculousness now}

Although my guise is that of a loving, obedient dog. I offer hugs when necessary. {don't mention this picture was ever posted. The female might complain about this picture making her look like a giant marshmallow}.

However, no true Ninja can just live under one disguise. I have other's that come out to play when the moment is right.

Am I a little lapping dog ready to play fetch??

NEIN!!!
{German for NO!!! Did I mention that I have become fluent in other languages?? Don't forget... Ninja!}

Am I the ferocious beast of a wolf that lurks in front of your FACE!?!

DA!
{Russian, you fool, for YES!}

As of late, my female has found herself with child? How do I know these wondrous things? I am Shadow Ninja. It is my job to know.

My mission has changed, I now follow her (unknowingly, of course) to watch and protect her every movement. When she breaks down and goes into birthing mode, that liter will know ME as their rescuer.

The rules are as follows:
1. She may go to the bathroom when ONLY I sit with one paw underneath the closed door or at her feet if the door is open. Remember, victims are attacked when they LEAST expect it.

Even if she pops in that bathroom for one millisecond, I am there. Waiting.

If my attempts to take silly stomach shots to show how fat she is getting, I am there. Supporting and protecting her every move. When her husband comes in and suggests not to take belly pictures of herself and to maybe wait until she is more obvious (aka... she just looks fat right now, not pregnant), I am there for comfort. {do you not see me?? Lower right hand corner. That is right... stealth like movements}.

Does your female attempt to make toast in the morning? Mine does. I am there. Behind her. Sometimes I am so quick and sneaky she almost trips over me. But do I move? Negative. I am an unmovable rock. I will lay there and give her the look of "what the heck is wrong with you? I have been laying here all morning. You move!!!" She usually apologizes and steps over me. Weak sauce.

What about when she opens the fridge in the morning to take her pills?? I watch. The male of the house questions her about the taking of these special fetus pills. I do more than ask. I watch. I make it happen.

If she turns around in attempt to CATCH me watching her {again, laughing at such ridiculousness. She can't CATCH me}, I close my eyes. When my eyes are closed. I turn invisible. Thus, she can not and will not see me.

Mission accomplished.

So why, you may wondering in that two fisted size brain of yours, would I share my secrets with you?

I want you to know. I may look cute. I may jump around all crazy like when you come to the door. I may even lick you as an offering of affection. But really, I am sizing you up. I am figuring out my next move to be 13.2 steps ahead of you. When you move, I move. What you eat or drink, I will know through those licks.

I know who you are and what you want. I will be watching.

I am Shadow. The warrior ninja of the Powell home.

{Female and I on our walks. I stand alert. I stand waiting for you.}

Things to consider

2011-09-08T07:59:00.002-07:00

Rude things to say to someone when you find out they are pregnant:

"Really? Is this suppose to be a good thing?"

"I was wondering why you were looking so round in your belly. I was thinking you were eating a lot of cookies."

"Oh. My. Gosh. Your pregnant!! I kept looking at you {while teaching cycling} and kept thinking for someone who works out, you are sure letting yourself go."

"Do you think your having twins?? Cause you are bigger than you should be for your first."

Check it people!! I have gained 4.3 pounds and I am 14 weeks. I still run. I still lift. I still cycle.
so.... WHATEVER is all I have to say.

Nice things to say:

"Congratulations!!"

"I am so excited for you {two}.

"You look great!"

If you can't say any of those three things when someone tells you they are having a baby, don't say anything at all. Lie if you must. Be nice.

She may be feeling a little self-conscious. Sick. TIRED. Bloated {painfully!!!!}.

On a happier note:
Um I ran three miles yesterday. It was slow. And I didn't use any incline. But I ran!! Bisbee 1000, HERE. I {.5}. COME!!!

The end.

Yes, please.

2011-08-23T09:25:00.003-07:00

When I think about what type of mother I want to be to my little girl ... this is pretty high on the list.

http://www.bjgofficial.com

Times They Are-A Changin'

2011-08-22T14:41:00.002-07:00

Well if you know John and I, you know that we live a very boring, never-changing life. ... and if you REALLY know John and I, you know that is a complete lie. I laugh because we have made some of the BIGGEST life-altering changes in groups. Not one at a time like most normal {mentally stable} people do.

For example:
May 2009: I graduated College (working 50+ hours during the school year) and got married two weeks later... one week later John and I moved to Tucson, AZ.

May 2010: We bought a house one year later...

January 2011: I go back to school (not that I wasn't busy enough) and John is still working on completing his!

... anyways, you get the idea. So yes, the blog goes un-updated, emails are slow to be responded to, phone calls aren't always answered, but yeah know what?! That's our life.

And to make this life even more exciting... we have decided to add ONE more change. Luckily this change will make it's very anticipated appearance in late February/early March.

Yup, I am 12 weeks in and only 28 more to go!!

We are very excited and a little nervous... but ready or not HERE she (or he... which John is 'willing' it to be) comes.

XOXO,
The Powells {2.5}

Things on my brain...

2011-08-04T09:33:00.004-07:00

Summer Vacation- I miss you. I miss having a break.

Family- I miss you. I miss having time to see you.

Friends- I miss you. I miss having time to see you as well (even my friends at work that I bail on).

Winter (AKA- below 90 degree temps)- I miss you. I miss having to think "will this make me sweat walking into work in the morning" when I put something on.

Sleep- I miss you. The headache that has lived behind my right eye for the last three days has kept me from you. I do hope for a reunion soon.

On to less missing and more happy...

Did you know that I have a nephew (another one!!) that is due in just a few days. I will be making a trip to NJ to see him and his big brother at the end of the month! YAHOO.

Did you know that I have a rockin' husband who works on making our yard BEAUTIFUL so that in the mornings I can sit on a little chair and enjoy the sunrise (it is the only time it isn't hot outside). I try to do it on most mornings... really, its to let Rebel out to go potty but I like to think I am getting in touch with my "hello, mother nature" side.

Did you know that I LOVE reading and haven't really read anything lately and it is putting me in a bad mood. Isn't that pathetic?! But seriously, good books make me happy. No books (or crappy ones) don't.

Did you know that I am secretly obsessed with craigslist even though I never see anything on there that I want to buy. Or the things I want to buy are being sold for $$$$$ because the owner is mentally retarded (sorry Sarah Palin- don't get mad at me) and thinks that it should be sold at the same price they bought it for. It is USED people. You aren't going to get all your money back. Get over it!

Lastly, Did you know that I had a dream the other night that I was invited to a dinner with Kate Middleton and her husband, Prince William. We were best friends. Eating at some fancy Cafe in England. I woke up sad... and laughed. :)

Oh What A Night...

2011-05-31T16:11:00.005-07:00

There are events in one's life that will seriously go down in your memory as one of the best nights ever!

5/28/2011

Will be one of those long-lasting memories!!

My lovely sister -inlaw Jenny, and her sweet mister, Bill got married on Saturday. It was seriously such a beautiful and fun event. I should have hired my mother in law as my event planner for our wedding... too bad we opted for a Vegas (location- not style) wedding. Although they were kind enough to have a little open-house/reception for the Tucson family and friends. Kristen did an amazing job on all the small details for the night.

(side note: Can I just take a moment to tell you that I pretty much have the most AMAZING Tucson family. I love them. I love my sister (in laws) and my sweet Mom (in law#2). They are great people and I am proud to be a Powell!!)

My in laws in Tucson have a GORGEOUS home and it is the perfect setting for a outside party! When the photographer posts the pictures, I will post some of them here just for all you to see.

Here are some of the pictures that we took at the "photobooth" and one I stole from John's cousin Facebook. It's of Jenn and Bill during the ceremony.

Jenn and bill.... doesn't she look amazing. I L.O.V.E that she wore a blue dress.

My hottie of a man. Rockin' a skinny tie and linen pants, he was really wanting to impress some of the older gals he got "down" with later on in the evening. Let's just say that Bill's mom, aunt, and the aunts friend got some serious booty-bumpin action with John later in the evening. I may not have ever laughed so hard in all my life.

John, me, Anna (cousin), and Anna's hubsband Reece.

Just us!

My nose looks a little plastic-surgery-ish right here... not sure why. I may have moved my head. But I promise I don't have a funky post surgery nose goin' on!

K, last but not least (I am a little proud)- I made Jenn's cake. The cake-topper was all JENN (again, these ladies are really talented and I should take lessons).

And last, but certainly not least, the couple... sealing the deal! Have fun in Greece Bill and Jenn! Love you guys.

Holiday Inn

2011-05-16T20:55:00.002-07:00

I am in Yuma, Arizona for the night. Here for work... nothing exciting.
Since I am sitting in my hotel room solo (don't get dogs when you are first married. That way you can take trips and be more spontaneous without needing to figure out kennel arrangements) and started reading some of my favorite blogs. One of which is the Nie Nie Dialogs by Stephanie Nelson. Seriously, this gal inspires me to want to be a better member of my faith (which is LDS by the way... just in case you don't know me!) and better wife (c'mon married ladies- is she not just the sweetest thing to her mister. I mean seriously. You know they L.O.V.E each other.
Anyways, she always has these posts that ask what you are thinking about... so that's what this post will be about. Cause really, I have a lot of things to think about while I am sitting here. In Yuma. Solo.

Thinking:
1. I have some seriously amazing friends. Two of which I wish I could see (Brittany/Rebecca) and one that I see cause she is amazing and lets me stay with her when I am in Phoenix for work (Candice- you rock!)
2. I want people to stop saying insensitive things. I know they don't mean to (at least I hope not) but seriously, I wish people would stop and think for two seconds.
3. Water for Elephants was really good. Rob Patterson might have finally learned how to act. I actually saw a couple facial expressions in this movie.
4. I want my nieces, (future) daughters and every other young girl in the world to know that they don't need to dress older than they are. Wear more makeup than they should. And most definitely don't need to be given botox cause "they think they have wrinkles". Bah! Why do we make our girls grow up so soon? Hey parents- its OK to tell your kids "No, you are too young". or "hell, no. You are not participating in, wearing, acting like, saying, dressing like, etc." I plan to tell my kids all those things.
5. The info-mercial for "Insanity" give me a workout just watching it. I seriously sat here for 30 minutes watching it and thinking "um, no. Thats ok". haha. Lazy butt.

K- Its after 9 and I ~~want~~ should go to bed. :)

Nighty-night.

Busy. Crazy.

2011-05-04T08:27:00.003-07:00

I need to look away from my email inbox, my to-do list, my online homework site, and my red-lit voicemail telling me to check my messages.

I am busy.

I love being busy. I do. Anyone who knows me, knows that I thrive on doing a million and one things at one time. But seriously, I just might have bit off more than I can chew. There just aren't enough hours in the day to work full time, teaching 4 classes, going to school, and trying to sleep. I might be losing my mind.

Yes, I think I am.

Love him...

2011-04-20T10:08:00.002-07:00

Email exchange:

Me:Chapman is trying to be as amazing as me. But its cool… everyone knows he is BOGUS!

(note of context: Aroldis Chapman has supposedly broken the 105 fast ball record. I had previously notified John at one of out baseball game outings that I have secretly broken that record. I pitch at 106....)

John: The radar guns were off so he might not have even broke your record...still intact for all I know. Keep an eye out for him though he might legitimately hit 106 and you would then need to hit 107...can you do that?

Me:I secretly throw 108. I just didn’t want to brag. Keep it on the down low though- I would hate to receive all that media attention. It is such an invasion of my privacy.

John:Okay...I'll be sure to keep it on the hush. Maybe we should get 108 with a flaming baseball tattooed on your wrist.

Me:Hmmm…. I’ll consider it. BUT, what if I only get better? Don’t you remember Denis Quaid in the Rookie? If I only get faster I’ll be embarrassed by my previous low mark.

John: You make a valid point, but what if you never hit it again? Are you consistent at 108?

Me:Good point. Perhaps I should come out of the “amazing pitcher” closet. I would hate for this arm to not see its glory in the spotlight… but again, I might make Taylor feel bad. Cause really, I am a girl and can throw better than him.

John: Ha...perhaps.

And this is why I fell in love with him. You might not find this as funny as I do. But really, this made my morning.

My Journey

2011-04-14T08:07:00.002-07:00

Not that I had a 120 pound journey... but I had a journey that was semi-similar to this. One day I woke up and realized I just didn't feel good. I wanted to be healthy and active. So I ran. With my dad. and my sister. Over and over again. I still hate running... but I found other activities that i love. Cycle. swimming. and teaching group fitness classes. I do it cause I love the way getting hot and sweaty makes me feel. It makes me happy! So here is a little clip that my friend Kim posted on Facebook this morning. Pretty much re-motivated me. Hopefully it will for you too (not that I am calling you fat or that you need to lose 120 pounds!)

Damn You Auto Correct!!

2011-04-13T08:14:00.002-07:00

Ever have those moments... oh I have! On many occasions. My sweet friend Krystal posted this on Facebook. Since I have some Young Women and other more innocent viewers on Facebook, I decided to post it here. On my blog. Where there are no privacy settings and anyone who wants can read it! :) *Reader be warned... there may be some offensive language or content.* http://damnyouautocorrect.com/

Happy St. Patricks Day!

2011-03-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

Ever have green eggs and ham?

I have!!
Thanks to Bob Dobbs (awesome pub by campus that isn't part of the "student scene"... which makes it THAT much more awesome)

Ever play Frisbee here (UA Old Main lawn)? With your co-workers and your Associate Dean (aka your boss) during lunch?

I have!!

Ever think this day rocks?

I have!!

Ever read this... haha

Now YOU have (... and ignore the arrow cursor stuck in the middle. I forgot to remove it and am TOO lazy to go back and redo it.) For some strange reason (completely unrelated to this GREEN holiday), I love this. I could get really cynical right now and explain why I love this but won't.

4th on the list!! If you don't know me very well, then you will know that I am totally LOVING (in the most cynical way) that Utah is 4th on this list.

Hope you all have a great day... and as its cheered in Gaelic "Slainte!!" (Good Health).

Life. Rocks.

2011-03-03T09:15:00.003-07:00

... cause I have tomorrow off from work and its party preppin time for this weekend. Here are some random thoughts on why my life rocks...

Awesome hair day. My friend Debbie helped me create the subtle "melt" look with my hair that was previously highlighted. It rocks. I think I should do my own hair more often.

Milk is costing over $3 bucks a gallon ...{this will be the one and only time I use this acronym}

FML

See, I even made it smaller cause I am semi-ashamed that i said it. But on the flip side, it will have me rethink about that bowl of cereal for dinner.

I took a Step class last night... and was awful at it. But my legs are super tired today. Which means I worked something.

My husband will be done with school in ONE year. One year folks... sweeeeet!

I will be done with school in 1.5 years. Not as cool as my husband who will be finished a whole summer and fall semester before me, but still rockin.

My sister is having a baby. I figure now that she announced it via Facebook I am allowed to announce it to the bloggin world. That means that my little stinky monster Jaxson is going to be a big brother... and I will be an aunt for the 12th time. Yikes... Albert kids are well on our way to repopulating the earth (before you make a remark... please read my previous post. Many thanks).

and lastly... did I tell you John was turning 27... oh well let me tell you AGAIN!!

He doesn't like to make a "big deal" about his birthday. Actually he likes to make my life miserable around this time of year cause I LOVE to make a big deal about birthdays and he is a grump. I know, I know. The good, ever so kind wife would respect her husbands wishes and not go against what he is forever hating...

I unfortunately am not that wife.

So many things to say... so little time to say them.

2011-03-01T08:12:00.003-07:00

I quit.

The 30 challenge that is... I have more important things to say.

Not really. I just am choosing to not do it anymore.

Things to come...

Applauding the select ladies from Oscars night who didn't have their breasts showing and slits up to their privates. Reassured me that living in modesty IS doable- and you don't need to look like a frumpy polygamist to do it (wow, I went there).

The crazy things my 5 year old CTR Primary class says.
Example: "Sister (blank look... since they haven't figured out my last name), did you know that doing drugs makes Jesus sad?" Another child chimes in "yeah, we aren't suppose to smoke cause it makes you SO sick that you will die. Then Jesus will be mad at you".

Duly noted- life lesson learned.

Reading Stephanie Nelson's blog makes me laugh, cry, and pretty much make me want to stop complaining about life.

If I knew how to "tag" or hyperlink anything than I would have you click "HERE" and it would take you to this blog. Unfortunately, my skills are not that savvy. So just look to the right- its there... called NIE NIE Dialogues.

Why I hate my hair so much and wish I could find a style that I like. When I get like this I want to chop it all the way off... unfortunately, its not a good look.

LDS culture

(cause really, its the only group of people who ask me relentlessly)
I L-O-V-E the Gospel and the great friendships I have developed through church.

But seriously, just cause I am 25 turning 26 in August- and NOT had a kid yet, doesn't make me less than you. Super duper that you started at 19 and will have teenagers when you are my age. As soon as I tell you when John and I are having unprotected sex is the day I let you know I am pregnant. Until then, its none of your beeswax. (PS: This includes family members who ask non-stop- Love ya!)

Capeesh?

Well used gift
We all have gifts that get well used. I received a gift when I turned 21 that I wore non-stop...
until now.

My Little friendy Ashley bought be some sandals that have become a staple during these HOT summer months of Las Vegas and Tucson. Sadly, these sandals have been worn SO much that I wore through the sole. :( They are now retired.
Thank you Ashely for 4.5 years of sandal heaven.

and lastly-

Fun filled birthday weekend ahead- even though birthday boy always throws a tantrum and can live up to the song "its my party and I'll cry if I want to". The party goes on. With or without his stubbornness to not celebrate one's own holiday.

(Editors Note: John turns 27!!)

Tha-tha-thats all folks.

Day 10: Theme Songs

2011-02-09T08:26:00.003-07:00

I love theme songs. I have lists and lists of songs I like to listen to during my many mood swings. (happy, sad, bored, hyped, mad)

Happy- Typically a happy mood means a mixture of music. Beatles, Paramore, Carrie Underwood, and most any country music, and lastly Scissor Sisters. Don't Feel Like Dancing will get me happy any day of the week.

Sad- Is it bad that I have more "sad" mood songs than happy? Mazy Star, Brandy Carlisle, some of Ryan Adams softer stuff, Bethany Joy Galeotti (no making fun... I am an official OTH fan through and through. Haley James Scott- sing your heart out!), Fiona Apple (wow, stereotyping myself!)

Bored- With boredom typically comes into ipod shuffle on my "Meg's Fav" list. That would include A Fine Frenzy, Feist, Jason Mraz, John Legend, Kings of Leon, and a little Michael Jackson action.

Hyped- This means "what gets you working out". So mostly hip hop, dance, electronica music. But there are a few all time favorites that make the cut: Ozzy (yes, Mr. Osbourne and I have a working out relationship), Another Brick in the Wall (Korn edition), Kat Deluna, Fall Out Boy, Black Eye Peas, Benny Benassi, Rogue Traders, and Rihanna. Love them all... and use them on a regular basis. :)
Mad- this is by far, my favorite play list... ha! #1 on the list Tool. Oh I was sadly converted to this group years ago and to this group I stay faithful.

Mad- Typically if I am mad I go with my "sad" music or I turn to Tool. I was a Tool convert many years ago and it still proves to be music I enjoy!

Can we say I am all over the spectrum here? Happy Wednesday people. Half way through the week.

My Proud Moment

2011-02-08T08:29:00.002-07:00

Dang, I must be slacking cause I can't really think of anything that I should feel "proud" about. I "cooked" rice yesterday. I am proud about that (side note: cooking rice is AKA for putting it in the rice cooker and turinging it on).
I am proud that I have managed to get some system going with all the added stuff in my life. I have a routine of checking my online class each day to make sure I am staying on top of all my work. So there. I am proud of that.

Happy Wednesday!

Day 8: goals!!

2011-02-07T09:51:00.002-07:00

Alright... I am back on track.

Monday starts with day 8: February Goals

This is kind of perfect actually. I was thinking back to my 2010 goals and I pretty much completed all of them. *gasp* That never happens. So let me just recap-

1. Start group fitness teaching again- that meant to get my national certification and recert my CPR/AED. Guess what CHECK! I did it.

2. Be better at my callings... well I kind of did this. (Can I get a half-check??) I found a happy medium. I got a new calling in primary (Sunday only calling! HOORAY) and can devote the energy into that!

3. Time to get Savvy... Technology Savvy! Learn to work the blog... CHECK!
I am not super great at it... but I can change the background without calling john.

4. To be... or not to be a GRADUATE STUDENT! CHECK!
Graduate student, I am. I started taking a class this spring. I am in the Higher Educational Leadership program. (mouthful for: You can earn a little bit more doing what you already do!)

5. Happy Home... FHE???
No check here... yikes. Heck, how much more can we fit in our schedule. C'mon.

4/5 not bad right?

February 2011 goals:

1. Cook! I want to take a few hours on Saturday or Sunday and most of our meals for the week. That way its easy to heat up and eat. With how crazy our schedules have been, cooking has been on the back burner. Well not any longer!
2. De-junk! We have SO MUCH CRAP. Seriously, its crap. I want to simplify my life. Which means throw out the million pairs of shoes I have (and don't wear) and the clothes I have (and don't wear).
3. Early AM for scriptures! I was doing really good about reading my scriptures in the morning while I ate breakfast. The last few months I have been going to bed late (totally blame John) and then I get out of bed late and scramble to get to work. Bah- I hate being rushed. I need to go to bed on time... get up on time... and have my morning routine BACK!
4. Walk Rebel Monday/ Wednesday/Saturday/Sunday. ha, silly I know. But Tues/Thurs I get home too late and I don't want to set myself up for failure. We have a poor little cow dog/lab mix and it is down right WRONG that we don't give her more exercise. We get mad when she chews and digs but guess what?! We don't ever take her out. It's amazing she isn't more of a naughty dog. I love her and need to be a better master.
5. Take a day to be selfish. Bottom line, do what I want to do... when I want to do it. Even if I have to do it alone.

Day 5 & 6

2011-02-07T08:55:00.004-07:00

Sorry folks... crappy weekend = not thinking about (nor time to) blog.
WARNING: Negative blogger ahead. Crappy weekend = crappy mood (and no it doesn't have to do with who won the Superbowl, the fact that Christina sucked singing the national anthem, and that the BEP's were awful during the half time show). Lets just say no heat and no electricity (in part of the house) makes Meghan a grumpy girl.

Day 5: Super Hero

No idea.

But here is who I wish I could have been that was of the fictitious-genre:

Strawberry Shortcake

Why, you may ask? Pretty much for this reason... she is awesome. Named after the yummiest treat known to man, always happy (probably cause who could be sad/mean with a name like that) and has dolls named after her.

I am sure if I can remember any of the TV shows I would have a stronger moral reason for why I would choose to be her. But unfortunately, I just remembered loving her.

Day 6: Who has had the biggest impact??

These two ladies. My sister Mimi and my mom. My sister is my best friend. We talk daily and I love her with all my heart. My mom pretty much rocks. She reminds me to be nicer, better, and more patient than I am ...daily. I have a pretty amazing family. We aren't perfect but we stick together (and love each other through it all).

Place(s)...

2011-02-04T07:55:00.004-07:00

I love to travel. Most of my traveling has been in the US but still... it's something I could do full time if the funds allowed it.

One of my most FAVORITE trips was with a group of friends to Guatemala and Belize. It was absolutely amazing. We didn't stay in fancy places or travel the typical touristy fashion. We stayed in hostels, grass huts, and cheap hotels. It was a trip that I will never forget!

Tikal- We went to the city of Tikal and did an early hike (4am!) to watch the sunrise on the temple pyramids. It was amazing. As the sun was coming up we started hearing these dinosaur-type roars coming from the rain forest. They were Howler monkeys. Their roar was crazy loud. This is the view on top of one temple, watching the sunrise, and seeing the other temples peak through the tree line.

This was actually our last stop. We stayed in Antigua for our last two days. We decided to take a long, wet hike up to an active volcano. Luckily, they don't have the same restrictions as the US. We were able to get as close as we could stand to the lava. I still remember my legs BURNING as I was trying to take this picture! ahhh- so fun.

Belize!! The city of Belize is actually a very gross and unfriendly place. Everyone warned me about how dangerous Guatemala city was... uh, ya right. That place was like Disneyland compared to how creepy and uncomfortable we all were in Belize. So needless to say, we decided not to stay in the actual city but took an hour water taxi out to Cay Caulker island. SO WORTH IT. I would go back in a heart beat.

White sand beaches, small island, snorkeling, beach stands of grilled sea food and fresh squeezed juices... oh to be back.

This picture is taken right outside our hotel door. Two seconds on the beach.

This trip will forever be one of the best times of my life.

Perfection...or not.

2011-02-03T08:15:00.002-07:00

One habit I wish I didn't have would be lack of cleanliness. I would love to be more organized and clean... oh well. At least I have a life. :)

Day 3: Friends

2011-02-02T07:45:00.006-07:00

“A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are.”

I have some pretty great friends. Friends from high school, friends from college, friends from church, and friends from work. All these friends, at one time or another, have been lifesavers. I love them all and feel very fortunate to have these people in my life.

Here are just some of those friends...

Me and B Hewitt (AKA: Midge)- the best of friends that grew out of a very random situation!! Love her forever.

Me and Candice- Friends from High School.... still friends today! I even moved States just to be closer to her. :)

Becca-boo. She is my lifesaver. I wouldn't have been able to get through some rough times without this wonderful lady dragging me through.

New friends!! The one challenging thing from moving to Tucson is learning to make some new friends. But I have some great ones. These are just a few that got together to run Bisbee last October. Its a bonding experience. I look forward to doing it again this year!

Yo, what's ya name!?

2011-02-01T07:56:00.004-07:00

... what's ya number?? ... I did a little Zumba last night and I have a few hip hop songs in my head!

There is absolutely nothing original about the name of our blog. We are the Powell's. John Powell is my husband and I (Meghan) am his wife. The End.

Since I didn't post a "recent" picture of myself yesterday, I will do it today.

This is the most recent picture of me... that's decent. :) This was taken at my friend Rebecca's wedding.

Day 1: Fifteen Things About Me!

2011-01-31T08:38:00.003-07:00

So 15 things about me...

1. I graduated from the University of Las Vegas, Nevada with a Bachelors in Psychology and a minor in Human Services Counseling and Counseling Education (mouthful... pretty much I learned all about dealing with people's problems and without being certified to actually do it.)
2. I love group fitness classes. I got really into group fitness classes at the gym I went to my first year of college. After a while, I got certified to teach. I taught for almost 4 year before I moved to Tucson. After a year off, I am back to teaching and LOVE it. If I could make a living doing it full time (and have the stamina to do it full time) I would. I brings out a different personality in me than I usually am.
3. I am a pianist... at heart. I took piano lessons when I was from 8 - 12 years old. I stopped taking lessons and practicing. Now that I am older, I wish I had stuck with it. My parents gave me their piano when I got married and I am determined to go back to taking lessons (when we can afford it).
4. I am the youngest of 5 siblings. I have two brothers and two sisters. We all span the age range from 42(Oldest sister Bekki) - 25 (me). We are spread out across the country but am happy to have my oldest sister Bekki live less than an two hours away!
5. Book Nerd! I read. I read. I read. I read when I know I should be doing other things... I love reading.
6. I am a sun goddess. I live for summers where I can lay out of spend some time outside to get a killer tan. Now that I work full-time, those long summer days are spent a little differently. However, since we live in Tucson, AZ, I was able to spend a wonderful January afternoon laying out this past weekend. Wonderful!
7. I have favorites amongst my nieces and nephews. Rude, I know. I love them all (and I really LOVE them) but there are a few that I have a special place in my heart for.
8. I am a Mess. I hate cleaning. I wish I were better at it. Maybe if I had more time in my day... I hope to kick this poor habit... eventually.
9. I love SciFi. I am a science fiction nerd... both in movie and in book. My husband teases me about it, but it is one of my favorite genre's.
10. I love Mexican food and Italian food. I would have a difficult time choosing between the two if given the choice. I could eat both all day every day!
11. I want to do good. I always wanted to work in the health profession because I wanted to "do good" with my life. Although my career path changed, I still find myself wanted to be involved with the helping profession. To help students, adults, kids, etc. I just want to do good!
12. I wish I were an actor/singer/dancer. I am so envious of people who have those talents. I don't and wish I did. Especially singing and dancing. I can watch people dance (lyrical/ballet) and it will make me cry. I find it completely inspirational.
13. Speaking of crying... I do it a lot. If I get mad- I cry. If I get happy- I cry. If I get sad- I cry.
14. I traveled (more like backpacked) to Guatemala and Belize when I was 21. I would love to do a trip like that again. It made me appreciate all that I have.
15. Sam. I have this boy in my life named Sam. I met him when he was only a year old and became his nanny. He was my best buddy until I got married and moved away. The things I learned from taking care of him (and his crazy sister Maddie and monster of a little brother, Max) will be part of me when I become a mom. I loved those kids with all my heart and Sam was really special to me. We had a little bond. I was his friend and he was mine. He and his family are a major part of who I am.

30 days

2011-01-31T08:34:00.002-07:00

I saw this post on yet another persons blog (remember my blog-stalking habit!?!) and I am going to give it a try. This will actually give me something to write about each day!

The thirty day blog challenge...

day 1- recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
day 2- the meaning behind your blog name
day 3- a picture of you and your friends
day 4- a habit that you wish you didn’t have
day 5- a picture of somewhere you've been to
day 6- favorite super hero and why
day 7- a picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
day 8- short term goals for this month and why
day 9- something you're proud of in the past few days
day 10- songs you listen to when you are happy, sad, bored, hyped, mad

day 11- another picture of you and your friends
day 12- how you found out about blogger and why you have one
day 13- a letter to someone
day 14- a picture of you and your family
day 15- put your ipod on shuffle: first 10 songs that play
day 16- another picture of yourself
day 17- someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
day 18- plans/dreams/goals you have
day 19- nicknames you have and why you have them
day 20- someone you love

day 21- a picture of something that makes you happy
day 22- what makes you different from everyone else
day 23- something you crave for a lot
day 24- your last five facebook status'
day 25- what I would find in your bag
day 26- what do you think about your friends
day 27- why are you doing this 30 day challenge
day 28- a picture of you from last year and now, how have you changed since then?
day 29- in this past month, what have you learned
day 30- your favorite song

Stalk MUCH!?

2011-01-28T14:36:00.002-07:00

We all blog stalk... don't you deny it!!

Today, I blog stalked and saw the BEST thing ever and I am here to tell you all about it. I won't lie either- the stalked blog in mention is on like 3 of my friends blogs from Vegas. So if you any of you friends want to tell YOUR friend that I am a creeper, go ahead!

So this stalked blogger is pregnant and her husband (yes ladies, HER HUSBAND!) created these super cute "pregnancy cards" for her. She listed like 25 funny things on these pregnancy cards for her when she felt like she needed to "pull the P card".
These cards are the cutest things ever! What man thinks to do that...

Here is a few samples of what she has listed on her "cards": Taken from her blog...
"-Bending over puts too much pressure on my baby. Will you pick up?
-Growing a baby is wearing me out, I need a nap!
-I'm so sick of our son. It's your turn!
-Cleaning isn't good for the baby. I think you should do it!
-The heat in the kitchen worries me, could you make dinner?
-This card is good for one food craving late night grocery store trip.
-The soapy water makes me sick, will you do the dishes?
He said the cards are reusable and don't expire until a month after I have the baby."

Awesome. Simply awesome.

Back in Action

2011-01-27T08:04:00.003-07:00

Hello blog... we meet again!

Not only has 2011 snuck up on me, but so did the end of January. Where does time go?

Here is a little recap of whats been going on in our life:

Christmas- We stayed in Tucson- I was sick! :(

New Years- We stayed in Tucson- had some friends come over... I was feeling better!!

Work- we both are doing it... some days are better than others.

School- We both are doing it... john is taking 15 credits (and working full-time...yikes!) I am at a comfortable 3 credits (one class!) and teaching 4 exercise classes a week (and working full time... double yikes)

Family- rough start of the year. Starting off the year with a funeral is never fun. But it was great to have my mom's side of the family all get together. We will miss our little Nana (and Pop too!). On a happy note, John's sister Karly is having a baby!! Congratulations are in order for her and her husband Ray. John is hoping for a boy... he wants to keep the nephew trend going.

And some awesome words to sum up how I feel about this coming year:
"We cannot see the future with precision, but we can know what the Lord intends and what it will take [for] each of us to qualify personally to participate".

I have no idea what lays ahead this year. I would like to think good things... I am in need of some good things. But I know I need to rely on the Lord to guide me in making those good things happen. Or maybe the Lord has other ideas as to what is "good" for me. Either way, I need to actively take control of my life and move forward doing good!

8th Day...

2010-12-17T12:40:00.003-07:00

Of Things That Remind Me of Christmas...

~~Post Office CHAOS~~ Giving gifts!
I love making, picking out, buying, wrapping, sending Christmas gifts for other people. Nothing makes me more happy!

Don't get me wrong! I know Christmas isn't all about the presents and things. It definitely has more value than that. But I love showing others that I think about them and have put thought and planning behind their gifts. To me, that makes them more special.

Merry Christmas!

9th day...

2010-12-16T08:42:00.004-07:00

Single digit people... single digit! We have 9 days until Christmas. One sister in law came into town yesterday and the other comes into town on Monday (I may be more excited to see John's sisters than he is! Yay for some GIRL TIME)!

But lets get back to my point:

9th day of Things That Remind Me of Christmas

LIGHTS!

We didn't hang any this year (sad, we are even in our OWN house to do it) but I have big plans for next year. But I l O V E seeing everyone with Christmas lights up. Makes me so happy to see sparkly little lights.

With one exception... SINGING LIGHTS

Our next door neighbors have lights that are linked with a sound box that plays Christmas music. It was cute for a few minutes but quickly got very annoying. We talk nightly about how to cut the box.

Hope everyone is enjoying their Thursday! I have ONE (and a half) work day left and then I am on vacation for TWO weeks. Two weeks people!!

10th Day of...

2010-12-15T10:12:00.004-07:00

Things that remind me of Christmas:

Christmas GOODIES!! I love baking and decorating yummy Christmas treats. Tonight, I plan to bake some more.

The list includes:

Rice Krispie Treats (with some festive sprinkles... maybe a batch dipped in Chocolate)

Peanut Butter Balls (family recipe... TO DIE FOR!)

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Sugar Cookies

Pumpkin Cookies

Peppermint Bark

I think thats all I (and my kitchen) can handle.

And just for fun...

11th day

2010-12-14T09:32:00.005-07:00

...of things that remind me of Christmas.

"Rats! Nobody sent me a Christmas card today. I almost wish there weren't a holiday season. I know nobody likes me. Why do we have to have a holiday season to emphasize it?" ~ Charlie Brown Christmas Movie.

Christmas Cards!

I love them... I hang them up each year as I receive them. This year they are currently pasted on my pantry door in my kitchen. I look at them each morning. We have such wonderful family and friends. I am grateful for all of them and look forward to being able to afford our own Christmas card to send out!!

On the 12th Day of Christmas...

2010-12-13T08:42:00.006-07:00

Did you know that its officially 12 days before Christmas? Seriously!? Where does time go...

Even though its only TWELVE days until one of my favorite holidays, I am having a hard time feeling the spirit of it all. Maybe its because the weather in Tucson is more like Spring than it is winter (or even fall).

So to jump start the holiday joy, I have decided to start a 12 Days of blog-Christmas! :) Random things that I hear, see, find, that remind me of why I love this time of year...

12th Day of things that remind me of Christmas:

Family!! I love love love all the family time that gets to happen during the holidays. For this Christmas we are staying here in Tucson and we get to spend it with John's family. I am really excited (granted, I will miss my own family as well) but all his sisters are going to be home (with their significant others) and its going to be one big POWELL-FEST! :)

While we are on the subject of family... the last two years I have got to spend it with my little monster and this year I will miss him greatly!

Christmas 2008 (New Jersey)

Christmas 2009 (Las Vegas)

And this year he is even bigger... (cause he turned 2!!) but sadly I will just have to call him and wish him a Merry Christmas over the phone.

'Tis the Season

2010-11-15T09:16:00.003-07:00

I am so in the mood to get crafty!! Not just any type of crafts- Christmas crafts!
We have a few holiday decorations for Christmas but not enough for my satisfaction. So I have decided that I am going to hit up my discount fabric store and create this amazing advent calendar out of felt! (Picture looks amazing- my craft might be satisfactory but who cares).

I am hoping that this craft-fest will get me into the holiday spirit. Cause I am not feeling too great about the upcoming month of December. (I have the case of the bah-hum-bugs)

Halloween Boise Style

2010-11-04T15:01:00.017-07:00

I spent the weekend in Boise, Idaho with my fam! So much fun... so flippin cold!!

I uploaded the pictures backwards and I am too lazy to replace them all correctly- sorry! :)

My Mom, Marian (sister) and I ran the Farm Man Challenge 5k! It went to a GREAT cause and had a fun/freezing time doing it. The race was an obstacle course through a corn-maze. Definitely fun although it made for an even greater challenge when the weather was only a cold/windy/cloudy 38 degrees.

The finish line was an air-jumper type thing set into the ground... was a little slippery trying to run across in your socks!

Marian and I at the starting line...

Some pre-5k activity: feeding and petting the wandering goats.BAH! So cold! Poor little Jaxson... Just in case you can't see my awesome hat- there is a candy store in Boise called Powell's Sweet Shoppe. Needless to say I bought the hat :)Two of my nephews. Staton and Breckon. Little Breckie was my shadow all weekend. I heart him!! :)

Ha, ok my bestest friend in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD drove 5 hours to see me Saturday night! My dad took some better photos of us than this... but I wanted to give her the credit for making the trip. Plus, I just love her face. And apparently whatever we were talking about was very intense!! The twins playing with some of grandpa's robot.

Breckster!! What a babe.

Last but certainly not least, my sweet Nana. What a wonderful grandma she is to me and I will love her for ever!!

I hope you all had a great weekend too. Can't wait to see my family again- in three weeks :) Love the holiday season!

Move over Martha- there is a new Stewert in town!

2010-10-25T12:17:00.003-07:00

So, I baked a cake for my sister Karly's wedding dinner. Loved her enough to make myself a little crazy this last week doing it. But what can I say, when you gain a sister as great as she is... its well worth it!

This talent is definilty best to be left to my sister Marian. But I enjoyed the attempt! :)

Bisbee 1000

2010-10-21T08:35:00.007-07:00

Growing up my pops was the runner. I remember going with him ONCE when I was a young little thing and I pretty much walked while he ran ahead and circled back... I am sure he made me run with him from that point though. Which is why I avoided running at all costs from then on. That is until I was in college (in A LOT better shape), and joined my dad and sister in a Turkey Trot. Had a good time- so from then on I have been running ever since. Use to be a thing for me a my dad. He would join me or if he couldn't (bad back) he would wait for me at the finish line. To this day- when I run a race I always think of my dad waiting for me at the finish line. Whether he is there or not... *sigh!

Anyways, I digress in thought-
I graduated, got married, moved, started a grown up job, and my love for running went away.

At this point I can happily admit that my relationship with running is a little disfunctional. One day we love eachother, the next, its hate. But ever since I committed myself to the early AM runs, its been we have gotten along better. Well on Saturday, October 16th we decided to REALLY love eachother. You know that IN love stage at the beginning stages of dating someone new. Where you just can't get enough of them and your almost high from all those lovey endorphines?? Thats what we experienced on this magical Saturday! :)

We were IN love!!

Had so much fun going to Bisbee with a few good friends. We got up early, drove a few hours, ran in amazing weather, had some amazing food (including some samples of Salmon Cream Cheese on home-made sour dough bread, jalapeno bread-SPICY, and a fantastic egg and potato breakfast burro), and took some NOT so amazing pictures of myself (while the others looked amazing instead). PS: ran 5 minutes and 47 seconds faster this year than last... Yipee!

Now that Bisbee is gone, running and I will continue to work on our relationship and attempt to endure a 1/2 marathon in December. Goal is to beat my last 1/2 marathon time by 10 minutes. We'll see :)

Oh ya- and....holidays are coming up- can't wait to see my family!

A few pictures for your enjoyment:

Yes, I did take a picture of my at 5am to remember that pre-race feeling!

Sarah standing on one of the many staircases that are all over this small little mountain-side town. Although these weren't stairs in our race, these are a small scale example of the 9 we had to get through (including running 3.2 miles up and down some pretty serious hills)!

Kim!

ME! *notice its far away- thats cause my hair was swetty, my skin was red and blotchy, and I pretty much STANK!

Debbie- Kind of caught her in a "oh, well" moment and she still looks cute!!

Showing our stuff- tough chicks present! :)

These ladies were here last year too! Loved their spirit. Lady with a kid- not sure who the rude face was for!

There we are! Standing watching the IceMan Challenge. What a good day!

The end!

Friday

2010-10-15T08:06:00.003-07:00

Yes, its finally Friday! I am so looking forward to this weekend. Bisbee1000, cleaning our disaster of a bedroom, doing laundry so we have clean clothes, studying, sleeping in (on Sunday)... just some things I am looking forward to.

Hope you all have a great weekend too!!

Cup for a Cake

2010-10-07T08:29:00.004-07:00

Ever wanted to know what baking 200+ CupCakes would do to your kitchen??

You are all welcome to my house to see... sorry no touching the works of art!!

* Not an actual photo- just a googled image! :)

Victorious!

2010-09-23T07:55:00.002-07:00

"This is where you will win the battle- in the playhouse of your mind"
~Maxwell Maltz
5am= me up and running (a slow and painful) 4 miles!
I win...

Hesitation

2010-09-22T09:14:00.002-07:00

"He who hesitates is lost"
Proverbs

Yesterday I realized that I will be running a difficult 5k (dont mock me- its the Bisbee 1000. Look it up!) in three weeks and have yet to really do any running (like at all). So I committed to getting up at 5am this morning to go for that run! 5am came, I hesitated, and went back to sleep. 6:30am came, "Oh S#!T! I am going to be late for work"... and was.

Moral of the story- Meghan get your LAZY butt out of bed when the alarm goes off.

Happy Wednesday.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you

2010-08-25T14:04:00.004-07:00

There is a picture on our wall that i look at everynight. I think about the words that are on the bottom and contemplate what they mean to me and my life at that moment. Those words are such a comfort to see each night and morning...

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you" ~John 14:27

Last night, I thought about those words again. I sat there looking at the picture and realized I am at peace knowing that the things that are sometimes difficult to swallow somehow work themselves out. Even when I am frustrated and at my witts end, when I stop and let go of those frustrations I realize how peaceful I really am. I know I am doing the right things. I am not perfect (by a long shot), but I am trying my hardest and the Lord knows it.

I am grateful for those small moments of comfort. I started thinking about that classic poem that I never really gave much thought to until now...
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, other times there was one only.

This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat, I could see only one set of footprints, so I said to the Lord,

“You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you, you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there has only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most, have you not been there for me?”

The Lord replied, “The years when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”

Life can sometimes be hard... everyone experiences those trials that make you wonder why. But I know that the Lord is always with us. He always knows our sufferings and he will make those burdens light. He will give us peace. I am so thankful for that knowledge.

Just because...

2010-08-07T15:16:00.003-07:00

Who needs kids when I have this wonderful little girl!!
PS: she got two new toys today- one being a little otter that she is loving to destroy!! Toys around here dont last long. At least she only chews her toys... otherwise a baby might look more appealing.

like the jeans in the background that look like half a body??

Home Is Where The Heart Is...

2010-08-07T15:08:00.003-07:00

Well I didn't lie to you- we really bought ourselves a house. Still a work in progress and the next big project is the landscaping. However, for now its nice to have our own place. I feel like we are already filling it up. How is that possible?? Maybe we can upgrade sooner than we thought (if john reads this he might start laughing and say YEAH RIGHT!)
Here are some pictures of the living room and kitchen. The three rooms on the backside of the house are pretty much an office for john, a workout room, and a storage closet. :) Our master bedroom is where the magic happens but isn't anything special to take a picture of at this moment.
So here is a little preview- (nope, definitely did not pick up our house before taking these pictures. ohhhh well.)

Happy Anniversary

2010-08-07T14:37:00.005-07:00

I know, I know... I get the award for the crappiest blogger. I never take pictures so I dont ever have anything great to blog about. Luckily I remembered to snap a few shots when John and I went to California for our big 1 year anniversary. Thats right folks- we made it a year. Now lets see how the rest of our lives go. :)
Here are some beach shots...

It was a beautiful weekend so we did lots of walking! We walked through some neighborhoods that would be AMAZING to live in... not so amazing to pay for! In between some houses they had these stairs that went down to the beach shore. Well the tide was SUPER high that night so the stairs were halfway covered with water. It was pretty neat.

and... just cause I am so dang cute-

Growing up...

2010-07-06T20:13:00.002-07:00

I was talking to a friend today and we started talking about our families. Not the families we have NOW, but the families we came from. Families that helped shape the type of people we are now.
I know no family is perfect. Every family has their struggles. Has their fights. Has their issues...
But as I get older, I realize its how all the individuals that make up that family, act and overcome those trials together, that make them what our Heavenly Father intends a family to be.
Not perfect, but just a REAL family.

I am so grateful for my family being made up of REAL people. People that even when those trials and struggles came around, we stuck together. I am so proud to have grown up in the Albert home.

As my friend and I continued on with our conversation, we started talking about families showing love.
Every family can show love. Every family showes their love differently. I am grateful to come from a family that love was everywhere.

Here are a few things that when I think about them... my heart is truly full because to me, that is just plain L-O-V-E.

We talk.
I mean, I talk to my family alot!! I call my mom almost twice a day. I call my sister at least everyday. I call my dad just to annoy him during his favorite shows. Even though he wants to watch his TV, he will talk to me. Cause he knows its important to me.

We listen.
I can't tell you how many times I have called my mom to just listen to her day. Its trivial... but to me, it makes me feel not so far away. She listens to me too. I talk A LOT. And my mom will listen. Probably more than she likes. :)

We say I LOVE YOU.
I can almost count on one hand how many times my parents have gotten off the phone with me without saying I love you. Its what they say. Its what I love to be reminded of. I love you is a great little phrase that can melt a rough day.

We snuggle.
Some of the best memories I have as a little girl is going into my parents bedroom early on a Saturday or Sunday morning. It would be a rare sight if you didn't find all 5 Albert kids, along with my parents, snuggled up in their bed. Those snuggle times usually included my dad telling some of his wild-and not true- stories, singing monster twinkle, or my big brother talking like Donald Duck. Its the same big brother that calls me on my birthday just to leave me a message singing to me in Donald duck voice or Thai. He is crazy, but I love him.
Some of my favorite memories now that I am older... we still snuggle! My sister and I snuggle together on the couch. My other sister and I snuggle amongst her 5 crazy children. I snuggle with my mom. I love snuggling and I love snuggling with them. Makes me happy.

We respect each other.
Not everyone in my family believes the same, thinks the same, or acts the same. Yet we respect each other and try to be respectful of all those differences. Cause bottom line is... we are family. and we love each other.

We spend time together.
Growing up I remember going on small day trips. Whether it was to the lake or to the temple, my family did stuff together. One of the best memories my family still talks about today is a random trip to California over St. Patricks day weekend. We were driving down the highway and one of the radio DJ's was acting like a elf version of Elvis. Probably wont sound too funny on this blog, but let me tell you, we can still laugh til we cry trying to re quote that skit.

We are just us.
No pretenses, grumpy, happy, laughing, crying... its who we are.
We pretty much speak our mind and dont care if you want to hear it or not. We are loud, not politically correct AT ALL, crude, gross, pinch eachother during prayers, argue just to hear my mom remind us that "eternity is a long time so we better learn to get along now".

I am so proud of my family. So proud of each of the members of my family. They make me want to be a better sister and daughter. They are a constant reminder to what I need to improve on when it comes to being a wife to my love, John. They are a daily reminder of what kind of home I want my kids to experience.

A house full of love, laughter, some fights (cause its not a REAL family without those), lots of making up, hugs, kisses, and most of all... I love yous!!

Dog...Cop...Creepy Old House

2010-06-30T20:16:00.002-07:00

The story I am about to tell is real. The events are real. The people and canine are real. Let me begin...
I have just pulled out onto this side road from where I park at work. As I am about to make a left hand turn onto a main road, I see this large black lab coming up the other side of the street. I watch him cross the main road at his leisure as cars are screeching to a halt in order to not hit him. He goes on his way with little distraction.
At this point I am having the following internal conversation, "Meghan, just go on your way. He will make his way back to where he needs to go.
Meghan, DON'T JUST LET HIM LEAVE! He is wearing a collar, go look to see if a number is listed." .... you get the idea.
So, what do I do?! Well I pull over and stop, of course.
So I call this sweet large black lab over and try calling the number on his collar.

Line is disconnected. Suck!

I see a cop in the parking lot next to where I am standing. I call over to the cop and walk over there with my new friend.
I ask the officer for the number to Animal Control. He gives me the number and kindly holds the dog while I am man-handling my skirt, so it can stay below my waist instead of flashing everyone my white long undies, and with my other hand I can hold my phone.
Animal control answers...(the following conversation ACTUALLY took place)
A.C-"Animal control, this is (insert name of loser A.C person)."
Me-"Hi, my name is Meghan and I found a very large male lab along the side of the road. I tried calling the number listed but its disconnected."
A.C-"Does he have tags?" ...(short term memory must not work too well.
Me- "ummm, yup. Remember? That's how I knew to call and the line is disconnected."
...series of questions that are not going to provide much entertainment proceed....
A.C" Well I have the address to the owners. You can take him there. Do you have a pen?"
Well dang it, I left my third arm at home today so between me holding my skirt so this poor office doesn't get the peek of the holy G's and holding the phone, I am all out of arms.
Looking at the police office- "uh, you got a pen?"
So the community protector pulls out his flip pad and writes down all the information Mr. loser has to offer. Including the disconnected phone number I had already repeated to him twice to prove that the number we both have is the same and is DISCONNECTED!!
So I hang up with the waste of a human brain, and ask the police offer to kindly follow me to this house cause I am not ending up on Unsolved Mysteries for my kind service to return Man's Best Friend.
So I load up the big CHUANCHO into my car and follow the Officer a down the road. We pull up to this house.
Its like a house from a slasher movie. No one is home.
So the officer asks me to wait down by my car while he scoped the place out and calls dispatch to see if they have a number attached to the residence.
Unfortunately, no one is home. No number can be found. And 20 minutes go past.
So I finally decide to just take this poor lonely buster to the pound.
By this time its about 6:50pm.
I call animal control to let them now I am bringing the Mister in.
He (yes, its the same lame-o from before), gives me directions, with a special thanks to Officer Ganza, I load the hunkster into my little car and begin driving north bound.
Its approximately 7:10pm
I am lost...
I call Animal Control hoping Mr. Friendly can give me real directions this time.

*ringing...ringing...ringing...*
"Dispatch!"
uhhh, "hi, I am on my way to bring you guys a dog I found and I am lost"

Dispatch-"Animal Control closed at 7. You will have to bring the dog in tomorrow morning".

WHAT!?!!?!?!?!
"I JUST called. He didn't say anything about closing. What am I suppose to do?! I can't bring him home with me and will not let him go on his own."

"Sorry ma'am.Those are your options. We can send a unit but no garauntee that they will make it tonight."

"Well, why would I ask for that then? Well your situation is really crappy and I hope you know that!"

hang up...
Drats. The big buster is sitting in my back seat and I dont know what to do.
So, naturally, I decide to return to the crypt creepers house to see if they are home yet.

Still no answer. So as I sit there I begin to think of what my options are and to be honest, I just dont like them.
So I decide I will leave big pappa on the front porch in hopes that his owners will come home. But how do I make him stay on the front porch??
I begin to think of ways to fashion a leash of sorts to tie him up. I have only one option. And I am pretty sure that McGyver himself would have been proud of my quick skills. I rip out the shoe laces on my running shoes and tie them together.
I take Bubba up to the front door and tie the laces around his collar and onto the door.

My hope is that his hulk-like strength did not break through.
I left a note letting the neglectful owners know what a kind citizen I was. :)

I hope that hunk-of-love had owners that were happy to see him when they came home.
Thats it. I came home. I now have my little seeester of a pup sleeping next to me. I love dogs. Makes me sad to see ones lost. I hope I tied Spencer to his rightful owners door.

Our family is growing ...

2010-05-20T11:25:00.004-07:00

out of our apartment that is!

Its official, we bought ourselves a house. Move in date is approximately June 12th. Lots of love, paint, weedes, etc. to be done but we are excited to do it!!

John is a little overwhelmed I think. But we both are so happy that this has worked out the way it did. We feel so blessed right now and cant believe how much has happend over the last year.

We will definitly be giving you the "before" and "after" shots of the new place. Until then... here is a front view (not seen here note: a small forest of weeds, approximately knee heighth or higher, have taken residence in the front yard. We are THRILLED to be pulling small tree-like weeds from the front and back yard for the next month!)

Meghan had a dream...

2010-04-22T13:24:00.003-07:00

"I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in my dreams of one day becoming Julia Child, Rachel Ray (nix the annoying voice or laughter), Bobbie Flay (female version), or even my own sister who is WAY too good of a cook to have come from my family.

I have a dream that one day the bread or other baked goods in my oven will rise up and live out the true meaning of its purpose of creation: "I am a moist, flavorful, flakey, delishisness of goodness warm and ready to be devoured".

I have a dream that one day in my home of Tucson, AZ the husband and former friends who have previously been scared away will be able to sit down together at the table of Meghan and think "Dang, she is the best cook EVER".

I have a dream that one day even the state of Arizona, a state sweltering with the heat of Mexicans cooking authentic amazing mexican food,will be transformed into an oasis of Meghan-inspired authenticness Mexican food.

I have a dream that my four little children (that have not been born) will one day live in a home where they will not be judged by the poor quality of their mothers cooking, but by the effort their mother put into trying to be a better cook.

I have a dream today."

Wow, can we say dramatic?? Look, I want desperately to enjoy, love, be good at, etc., cooking. Sadly, I am not.

SO... I have decided to participate in my friends blog on recipe's and cooking. I am excited (of course its the first day) and ready to put my chef's hat on and bring out my inner Julia-Child.
I shall keep you updated on the results... or if your family and you haven't heard from John in a while, youll know something went horribly wrong!

Dear Emma

2010-04-19T09:20:00.005-07:00

"Dear Emma,
I have such respect and admiration for you. I couldn't have done what you did. I couldn't have been as strong as you were. I too probably wouldn't have followed the Saints out west after all that happened. You amaze me and I can not wait until the day I am able to talk to you. I will probably give you a big hug. After reading and preparing for my lesson on you for my young woman, all I kept thinking about was the need to give you a hug and say thank you!
Much Love,
Meghan"

...
Seriously, this woman was incredible!! I prepared a lesson on Emma Smith for my laurels this last Sunday. I started going through LDS.org to find some information and just couldn't seem to get alot of personal info on Emma. So I googled her name. Sure enough I fell onto a website that was started by Emma Smith's Great-great granddaughter who joined the church when she was a young adult.

http://www.emmasmithmormon.com/

Gracia N. Jones gave a biographical account of Emma Smith that was published in the Aug 1992 Ensign. I felt that if the church would publish it in the Ensign then it was approved for me to use it in my lesson.

I learned so many fantastic things about Emma!
I learned she was 5 months pregnant when the Prophet, Joseph Smith (her husband) was murdered. She gave birth to their last child, David Hyrum, at the beginning of November.
I learned that the evening that she found out about her husband and brother in law's death was when Governor Ford and 60 of his men showed up to her house to be given dinner at 5pm. They decided to tell her the news around 10pm that night. (What nerve!!)
I learned that through all the trials and challenges that she faced, that even up until she was about to die, she never ONCE denied the divine authenticity of the Gospel nor the Book of Mormon.
I learned that I too probably wouldn't have followed the saints out west when I had 6 previous children die, seen the horrific things she saw, had my husband murdered, no land or provisions, a 10 month old child and 4 other young children, and an elderly mother in law to take care of. I think it was just too much for her to do.
I learned that she remarried a man who seemed to be a really great guy. That he took care of her children and raised them as if they were his own. He built her a house on the very land that Joseph had promised her.
I learned that in the end she saw a vision of Jospeh... one that I can not do justice to by writing myself so I will give to you directly:
Emma lived almost thirty-five years after the martyrdom of her Prophet-husband. She died 30 April 1879 in her seventy-fifth year. In her last years she was greatly loved, and in the last hours of her life she was attended by her family: Louis Bidamon, Julia, Joseph III, 26 and Alexander. According to Alexander, Emma seemed to sink away, but then she raised up and stretched out her hand, calling, “Joseph! Joseph!” Falling back on Alexander’s arm, she clasped her hands on her bosom, and her spirit was gone. Both Alexander and Joseph thought she was calling for her son Joseph, but later, Alexander learned more about the incident. Sister Elizabeth Revel, Emma’s nurse, explained that a few days earlier Emma had told her that Joseph came to her in a vision and said, “Emma, come with me, it is time for you to come with me.” “As Emma related it, she said, ‘I put on my bonnet and my shawl and went with him; I did not think that it was anything unusual. I went with him into a mansion, and he showed me through the different apartments of that beautiful mansion.’ And one room was the nursery. In that nursery was a babe in the cradle. She said, ‘I knew my babe, my Don Carlos that was taken from me.’ She sprang forward, caught the child up in her arms, and wept with joy over the child. When Emma recovered herself sufficient she turned to Joseph and said, ‘Joseph, where are the rest of my children.’ He said to her, ‘Emma, be patient and you shall have all of your children.’ Then she saw standing by his side a personage of light, even the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Did you cry?? I sure did!!

I KNOW, without a shadow of a doubt that the Book of Mormon was brought to us by divine inspiration AND that it is another testiment of Jesus Christ along with the Holy Bible. I know that my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, appreared to Joseph Smith. I know that Joseph was an imperfect human, that being called as a prophet of God did not miraculously change him to being perfect. But non-the-less he was a prophet of God that did the best he knew to bring to pass the imortality and eternal life to men! I know the gospel to be true. I know Emma Smith to be a wonderful lady who suffered more than any of us could even begin to think to judge.
I know that my life is complete and full of peace and joy because of the things I know to be true.

I have a testimony that is unshakable. I have a testimony that ALL that Joseph Smith did in his short life was to glorify God, not himself.
I love the Prophet Joseph Smith. I love his wife Emma. I love my Heavenly Father and Savior for blessing my life with the knowledge I have.
In our Saviors name,
AMEN!

Im going to...

2010-04-09T14:18:00.002-07:00

start something new!! I have been thinking alot lately that I need an outlet. Since the certain "outlets" I want to get back into can't happen right now (AKA teaching group fitness), I, with some creative help from a co-worker, am going to start something new.
I need a place to do some serious venting!!Im hoping its as fun and entertaining as I think its going to be. At act as some serious stress-therapy that I am in need of before I and or my poor husband go crazy.
Give me a few weeks and I will be back with some details!

Re-Do

2010-03-05T13:26:00.004-07:00

Yes I am blogging in the middle of my work day...
The reason is cause I have something very important to announce. John and I are going back in time and going to re-live our wedding day! I love love love love love EVERYTHING about my wedding except for one thing!
My dress
*Gasp* Mom, dont be hurt. Marian, dont want to hear your "told you so's". Not that I hate my wedding dress. Cause I dont... It just wasn't my style. It was a fast pick cause the place was closing and I just wanted to get THE DRESS checked off my to-do list.

Anyways... back to my RE-DO"
This is the dress I will be wearing.

(No I dont know who this is! If you are the young lady in this picture and creeped out that someone you dont know is posting her blog about you, remember this; I am jealous of your amazing style and gorgeousness!)

I will keep the same bird cage viel I wore but wear this little number along with the shoes. I am mouth watering over this dress. I love it. I want to buy it and hang it in my closet and pretend I did wear it on that wonderfully awsome, fun-filled day!
Just one more to remind you of what I am in awe of...

Thats all I have to say. It was an important announcement to make.

"Goals that are not written down are just wishes"

2010-01-11T08:39:00.004-07:00

With another year out of they way, I think its only natural to start thinking about some changes that you want to make for the following year. I hate making goals... I almost refuse to make any sort of "New Years Resolutions" purely cause I never really accomplish them! So whats the point??

I always enjoy reading other peoples goals and what they strive to work on for the upcoming year. Last month I taught a lesson to my laural class and talked to them about being successful and accomplishing goals to improve ourselves. This lesson made me start thinking over the last few weeks that I cant really be teaching a lesson on something if I am not willing to follow the same advice!
So here we go... here are a few things that I want to find myself working on for this next year!

1. Lets get Physical...physical!
I really miss teaching at a gym! I miss the exercise, I miss the energy, I miss the people, I miss everything about it!! I started teaching not only cause it made me feel good, but it was a fun outlet for me! I need an outlet again and I know where I can find it. I just need to get back to studying for a certification exam and re cert my CPR! That's it!!

2. Planning ahead!
I haven't been putting my all into my calling with YW's. I have been making up excuses for being to busy, tired, stressed etc. with work! Well enough is enough!! I was talking to my mother a few weeks back and started complaining about my lack of time and energy to do anything more. I just don't feel like I have what it takes to be in Young Women's and my girls could use a better leader. I wish I could remember my moms wise words directly but essentially she told me that the calling is for me to be a better leader to the girls. That maybe that's why I am in the Young Women's program so I can grow more and offer something that the girls may need at some point. After the tragic events of this week with a youth in our ward, I feel blessed to be in working with the youth and feel the need to give these girls the example and friendship I was blessed with as a youth!

3. Time to get Savvy... Technology Savvy!
You guys see this cute blog... yeah other then me making these posts, it is all kept up by my sweet husband John! Every time I get on our blog he has updated the background or changed up the music! I HATE IT! I hate that I don't know how to do it! I attempted it ONCE and it took me FOR-Freaking-EVER!!
I have future plans of wanting to start an online business of sorts and I need to learn how to work it.

4. To be... or not to be a GRADUATE STUDENT!
I want to go back to school! SO BAD!! I will admit that seeing John enroll for classes and get his books to start the spring semester has me REALLY JEALOUS! I miss school!!
I miss the lectures, the people, the conversations, etc. I know that when your in the full swing of it all it doesn't sound so charming but when you sit a desk all day and do the same thing for 8 hours, classes sound A-MA-ZING!
So I am going to making up my mind what I want to study and when I will be putting in my application!

5. Happy Home...
I am sure every couple/family make this one each year... well so will we! John mentioned this when we were driving home from Las Vegas after Christmas and I cant help but agree and see the need for it more and more!
Family Home Evening!!
I dreaded FHE when I was a kid. It was torture time that my parents would attempt to inflict on us once a week. Most of the time it turned into laughing during prayers with my brother (oh we still do even as adults... awful I know), pinching one another while parents aren't looking, making fun of ones input, etc. (If this doesn't sound like what FHE was like when you were a kid, count yourself lucky!!)
So when ever John brings up the need for our little two-person family to start this practice in our own home, I cant help but start feeling the anxiety. :)
But really... we need to! It helps set habits that I have easily gotten out of over the last few months that need to be refined and strengthened! I see so much confusion, sadness, suffering, and destruction in the world today and it does nothing but destroy my spirit! I am grateful for a husband who reminds me of the things we have been told will strengthen us and prepare us for those difficult times. So... FHE is now on at the Powell home!

I think 5 is enough... not to mention that I now have taken 20 minutes out of my work day to type this out! :)
Maybe number #6 should be "STOP THE PROCRASTINATION"!!

Happy 2010 everyone!! Have a happy and successful year!

Little Drummer Boy

2009-12-14T16:49:00.003-07:00

My favorite Christmas song is "The little Drummer Boy".
Anytime I hear this song it makes me tear up. I can not listen to these words without thinking how much I feel like the drummer boy who doesn't have anything great and wonderful to give sometimes except the most simpliest of gestures.

When the Holiday season rolls around, I am gently reminded of all I have been blessed with and how much John and I have to be grateful for. We eat (probably a bit too much if you ask me) :), we have a nice place to live, we both have great jobs, and most of all wonderful families!

Growing up my parents did a great job of teaching us all about the spirit of Christmas. It wasn't always about presents and treats. It was about the birth of our Savior and what we do for one another to continue to spread the Spirit during this holiday season.

My parents taught us through example by adopting families for Christmas even if the budget was already tight and taking breakfast to the homeless early Christmas morning.

To me that is what Christmas is about... its those simple gestures.

Like the Drummer Boy; I dont have a lot to offer, but what I do have, I can do "my best for Him"!

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,
On my drum?

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,
rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum
Me and my drum.

Bahhumbug to you!!!

2009-12-10T08:46:00.004-07:00

I need to vent... not a better place to vent in this world than on a blog that hopefully more people will see and learn a bit of a lesson from!

BE KIND AND POLITE!!!

(*Note: I will be the first to admit my own weakness... I am impatient and definitely can lose my temper. John has experienced many melt-downs of mine over the almost two years of being together and the short 6.5 months we have been married! I am not a perfect tempered person!)

However, my parents raised me to respect my elders and those around me. I take responsibility for my actions and to be polite and courteous when I am out in public, talking to someone, at the dinner table, at a restaurant, at a grocery store, etc.

My father still comments on our table manners even now that we are all adults! And you better believe if I, or anyone else for that matter, were to talk to anyone within ear range and be disrespectful or impolite that he would call us out ( in front of everyone ) on it!

With this being said... was no one else raised the same way? Or has majority of people forgotten common courtesy and manners!?!

I have days of rude students who feel that they deserve the world to be served to them on a silver platter, bib already tied around their neck, and don't forget the spoon feeding! Talking to those in my staff, including me, like we are nothing but to bend over backwards for their every want and request. Uh, nope! Welcome to the real world kiddos. Universities have whats called policies and procedures. Sorry you dont like them and feel that they inconvience you. You dont like your teacher? You didn't turn in your homework so your failing? Didn't pass your tests or quizzes so your failing? Your teacher doesn't grade on a curve so your not getting the grade you think you deserve? You missed the deadline so no one is accepting your request form? (oh this list can go on and on) Well kiddo, life isn't fair and take some responsibility...

Oh wait, its my fault? I didn't do your homework? I didn't register for the class? I didn't take advantage of study groups, go to class, or even talk to the teacher themselves, I neglected to turn something in on time... ha! Nope. I managed to graduate with my own degree and wont be accepting any of your excuses why this world is out to get just you!

Can I mention a student who came rushing through the door, ran straight into me, and not turn around to say "excuse me" or "sorry"? When I offered up the first of apologies for being in his way and his response... "..."! Yes he looked at me and said nothing!
That just pushed me over the edge! I looked at him and said "EXCUSE ME!". It didn't phase him. He just started walking away as he said over his shoulder, "excuse me".

SERIOUSLY!!

Another example brings me at Trader Joe's. I love love love Trader Joe's. My reasons for loving it could be a topic of another post at some point. My example is as follows:
I am walking in the fruit section to look for the awesome fruit platters they use to sell (*side note: They don't anymore) and I happen to find myself in their pre-made sandwich section. Since I hadn't already eaten I figured a sandwich would taste yummy! So I reached in and grabbed a sandwich! I started reading the label when the lady next to me (who had been in that same spot since my search for the no-longer-available-fruit-platters and my decision making process for which sandwich to grab) turns to me, folds her arms, and HEAVILY sighs. I look at her, look at the cart that is not even in the same refrigerator section about 5 feet away, and look back at her. "Sorry am I in your way?" I offer up and move back a few steps...

Sure enough she walks past me in front, to her cart, and walks off... HAVING SAID NOTHING!!

I not-so-politely respond to her passiveness with a "well Merry Christmas to you to!o"

SERIOUSLY!!!!!!!!

Look I love man-kind! I love my spiritual brothers and sisters no matter where you live, what color you are, what gender you dig, what you do for a living! I have absolutely no need to judge you and the person you are based on any of that... BUT when you treat others and myself like we are nothing more than just annoyances to you, I don't care who the heck you are, you have been judge in my book and I will no longer stand by!

People show respect, show love, and try to show patience. Its hard... its freaking hard sometimes. But I read way too much of the news that shows me how sad and hurtful people are to one another out in this world.

Kindness has to start somewhere!! Kindness has to start from someone!

This is my new goal... to be kinder and more patient. I cant expect those around me to act the way I want if I dont act the same.

I am no better then someone else who is walking through the same door, driving down the same road, and in search of the same grocery ingredients. My priorities are just as important to me as they are to someone who has their priorities on their minds!

With that being said, have a very Merry Christmas and please be kind!!

Close Encounter

2009-10-26T08:20:00.004-07:00

As many of you know, John and I moved to Tucson, Arizona a little over 4 months ago. Its been a great move for the two of us and has provided lots of interesting moments.
Tucson definitely is not on short supply when it comes to wildlife. In fact, I would say that I probably attract more wildlife than any other person living in this city!
I have experienced 30+ scorpions in my apartment, snakes of all kinds while I am running or biking, and now for my second time seen a group of Havalinas. For some, this isn't that big of a deal. For me, its major!
My post will specifically discuss my experience with the Havalinas as of last night.
It was around 7pm on a Sunday evening and I was walking back from our Clubhouse in our apartment complex.
It was dark outside and the path I walk on isn't very bright (to be honest nothing in Tucson is very bright. They avoid whats called "light pollution". So everything is kept fairly dim). I was listening to my headphones and not really paying attention when all the sudden I am face to face with a Havalina... not a little one either. So I back up a few steps and try to bypass this ugly pig when to my left I see a second one! (CRAP!) They both immediately go into strike mode and I can hear them starting to grunt/whine/yelp/moan or whatever it is they do. Feeling a little panicky, I back track my steps to original position when I see a THIRD pig to my right. (HOLY #$!&)
I begin walking backwards at this point. Grabbing a hold of my trusty cell, I call my husband.... TWICE! Not answering. I call my mother for final words... NOT ANSWERING. I have given up to dying alone at the mouths of these wild pigs.
Then my mind starts working up for my emergency exit routes. I could try running through one of the two pigs or I could hide behind the pillar I am already hiding behind, OR I can try maneuvering over to the set of stairs that lead up to a family who we know and hide out by their door til they leave. As my mind is going through possible plans, I notice the group is now coming towards me. Eyes still on me... hair still standing up!
I realize I needed to act quick! I immediately turn around and walk briskly back the way I came.
As soon as I saw the break in the building and fence I RUN FOR IT!!! I run all the way back to our apartment and rush inside.
I am hoping to find my husband doing something that justifies not answering his phone while his wife was potentially getting attacked by wild animals. Nope, he was just consumed by the never ending pass time of ESPN! SERIOUSLY!!!!!
So I not so patiently say, "John! I was about to be attacked and you didn't answer your phone!" Confusion clouds his face so I begin to explain the last few terrifying minutes.
What do you think his response was??? Oh if you thought it was any sort of sympathy, asking if I was OK, or even go out and check the area.... ha your thinking of your husband. Not mine!
He starts laughing at me!!! Yes ladies... laughing!
A look on my face probably tells him that laughing is not the best way to handle this situation so he gives a few last attempts of asking about my mental status and if there was ever a death caused by Havalinas (I am sure there is!!).
I am about to let this all past by when I start to wonder something...
"John, how long would I have to be missing before you would think to come looking for me?" I ask, his response
"I don't know, three hours maybe."
Words are not able to form!
"Three HOURS! John we live in TUCSON! I would be killed, stuffed, and over the Mexican border in three hours."
Ugh...
I hope you all had a great Sunday!

Happy Times!!

2009-10-03T21:55:00.008-07:00

Last weekend I met my parents up in Phoenix! We joined up with my sister Rebekah who lives there with her family. We were able to go to the Mesa temple before it closed for the next 6 weeks. It was such a great occasion. I love going to the temple but its even better having family there with you. Made me think what a great experience it will be when ALL my family can be there together!
We also had the special oppritunity to take my sweet soon-to-be-a-teen neice to the mall to get her some makeup for her 13th birthday. Cant believe she is going to be a teenager and am so proud of what a good girl she is. Haley is such a great daughter and sister! I just love her!!

After the mall I returned to Tucson and my parent followed the Sunday morning just in time to hear me speak in our ward for our first time. YAY! :)
We had a great time for the rest of their stay. Lots of things to see and places to eat. We loved having them for the weekend and cant wait to be back in Vegas for Thanksgiving!!
Here are some other pictures from my trip to Phoenix. Just playing around with my nephews and neice before bedtime!

Good New Minute!!

2009-08-19T13:43:00.002-07:00

So after two LONG and emotional months of trying to get a position with the University of Arizona, I have finally succeeded.
I (Meghan) and the new Coordinator of High School Programs for College of Engineering with the UA! I am thrilled and nervous all at the same time. This position is EVERYTHING I was looking for after finishing with UNLV. Looks like things are finally starting to come together! I hope all is well with our family and friends. We miss you all terribly but are looking forward to this adventure that lies ahead.

Powell Life

2009-07-22T18:46:00.003-07:00

So, we have both received callings and I gave a talk already last week!! We love our ward family, they go out of their way to befriend us. We have a ward BBQ this Friday, and we are having smoked turkey! We have made some friends and I have found a few that like the UFC so I think we will survive. Meghan is still cooking a lot, and making me fat!! It's like being at my aunt Kathy's house; there is fresh bread products everywhere! Anyways life is good, we are surviving.

Betty Crocker!

2009-07-15T17:40:00.007-07:00

Being a stay at home wife has given our little family (meaning JUST John and I) only a few benefits. Those benefits include me learning how to cook! My favorite thing to do is to look up (or call my ever so patient sister Marian) some recipe's and give the cooking skills a test run.

Today's accomplishment is a loaf of Wheat Bread (currently baking in our little bread maker).

Loaf of Banana Bread (which was given a very good review from my ever so picky husband John)

and lastly... soon to be grilled Lemon Marinated Pepper Chicken and Rice.

Needless to say... I'm proud! HA!!!

Powells take it to the mountains!

2009-07-11T18:59:00.013-07:00

John and I decided that we were not going to sit and spend our entire Saturday inside. Instead we ventured outdoors and up to Mt. Lemmon. John and His dad have decided to train to hike to Base Camp at Mount Everest so this was a beginners trail!
Above 8,000 feet our endurance was a little more challenged then it would have been hiking in Las Vegas. We both were huffing and puffing a bit. The weather was beautiful and the scenery was picture perfect!

We had to keep things a little silly...

It was like something out of Jerassic Park! We kept thinking maybe some raptors would be coming out of the ferns.

Oh and yes John is really wearing a Head Band. Apparently his hair is long and it will get all sweaty in his face. He keeps things very stylish! :)

Overall our hike deserves a double thumbs up! There was a small waterfall that we passed hiking down. It was beautiful. We were able to make it back to our car right before the afternoon monsoon started.

Recovering from the weekend!

2009-07-06T10:18:00.002-07:00

Hope everyone had a great FOURTH of JULY! John and I made our way up to Phoenix for the weekend. We had a two night stay voucher for Marriott that we decided to take advantage of. We took the oppritunity to go to the Mesa Temple which I have not been to since we moved from phoenix ten years ago. It was amazing. We were very excited to go.
We also decided to go check out IKEA. Once it again the store never seems to fail me. Simply the best thing ever. We bought some awsome office furniture and day dreamed about our kitchen, bathrooms, and other rooms in an imagenary house we some day might build.
After our shopping adventures we headed out to Gilbert to see my sweet oldest sister and her family. We enjoyed some ymmy food, cute kiddies, and some video games for john and a sweet game of GO FISH for me and my nephews!
Once we wore out our welcome at Bek's we decided to head down to Town Lake in Tempe. Now they had just started building this lake right before I left so I have yet to experience this man made lake! BOOOO!!! Yes it does have a "pretty" factor about it however it has made the humidity (which was nonexsistant before it was made) skyrocket. When your dealing with on avg 105-120 heat, the last thing you want to deal with is HUMIDITY! So gross!
So we parked, walked a gazillion miles, paid to get into the "celebration" and promptly left ten minutes later. Too crowded, too hot, and too thirsty. We left and found some comfort food and drink at Gordon Birsche. YUM YUM!
Luckily our hotel was wonderful. I am a firm believer in Marriotts. It was the best bed Ive ever slept in. The bed ranked with our hotel at the Palms and Im sure if we paid for it it would have cost half the price. :)
Well anyways-
We came back to Tucson and set up our furniture as well as picked up our lovely kitchen table! Yay everything is complete. As soon as I get things organized and clean I will take some pictures!
Love you all! Hope you had a great weekend!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-02T14:13:00.002-07:00

Yes I am aware that I am making a 4th of July post two days early. However I have been watching the history channel all day and they are kicking the celebration into early gear. Which means I am allowed to do so as well!

I just love this time of summer. Its hot, rainy (here in Tucson Monsoon season has offically began), and full of patriotism! BBQ's, Yummy food, and family... nothing gets better then these.

Pictures are coming!!!

2009-06-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

I know that I need to start posting pictures of our new little place. As soon as I can figure out how to connect my camera to my labtop I will!! As for now, appreciate the two pictures I managed to get on today. I feel as though my day has been productive.
So John and I finally got our couch and love seat. Nice to finally have a place to sit! As for our kitchen table that we ordered last week, well we found out that it would get in until July 4th. So looks like we will be having more dinners around our lovely coffee table.
Hope you all are doing great!!

New Beginnings!!

2009-06-23T11:35:00.000-07:00

Let the Blogging begin! John and I are now (sort of) settled in Tucson, Arizona! Five Scorpions later we are starting to feel very welcomed in our little apartment community. Our new ward is very friendly and welcoming. We are very excited to be starting this new life together and feel very blessed to have our family and friends supporting us.
As I progress in my blogging skills I will make sure to add some pictures and give more detail on our crazy life!
We love our family! We miss them and our friends as well. We hope to have some visitors soon! :)