All the Single Ladies!

Single...

Life...

Purpose?

Infinite possibilities.

You know, I may never get married. I may never have a husband or kids. I may have to wait a long, LONG time. So, what?

What does a single gal do to feel fulfilled? This is what I do-

1- I teach kids to dream, and help them realize how to be happy. They may not really be my kids, but in some way they are. And I have the precious opportunity to teach.

2- I get to meet SO many people who I can give my time and energy to because I only have to take care of myself. This frees me to be able to help many others.

3- Travel

4- My family is much larger than just a few people, and that is awesome.

Being single forever? Not a death sentence. An opportunity to grow.

My favorite thing about Glee

Sue.
I love Sue Sylvester. I love what she says, I laugh out loud every time. Sue says things that teachers wish that they could say without repurcussions. She is fantastic. Jane Lynch is brilliant.

Here are some favorites:

"Get ready for the ride of your life Will Schuester. You're about to board the Sue Sylvester Express. Destination horror!"

"You three are boring me now. I'm gonna go do something else."

"You think this was hard? Try auditioning for Baywatch and being told they're going in another direction. That was hard."

"I empower my Cheerios to live in fear by creating an environment of irrational, random terror."

"I don't trust a man with curly hair. I can't help but picture little birds laying sulfurous eggs in there, and it disgusts me."

"Schuester! I'll need to see that set list for Sectionals after all. I want it on my desk warm from the laminator at 5:00 P.M., and if it is one minute late, I will go to the animal shelter and get you a kitty cat. I will let you fall in love with that kitty cat. And then, on some dark, cold night I will steal away into your home and punch you in the FACE. "

Christmas at Temple Square

Last night I went with Toffer to see Natalie Cole perform with the Tabernacle Choir and afterwards we wandered around Temple Square. I LOVE the lights on Temple Square at Christmas, they are so magical. I am blessed to live in the Salt Lake area so I can see the lights every year! Here are some pics for you to enjoy to get you in the Christmas spirit!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Take a Moment

As another Thanksgiving draws to a close and my stomach is uncomfortably full (I vow I will spend at least an hour at the gym tomorrow), I can't help but contemplate about all the goodness in my life- I am truly blessed.
Moments- I love perfect moments. A laugh, a look, an inside joke. Sometimes I like to take mental photos of my moments so I will never forget them- here are some I'd like to share with you from the past few months-
-Seeing my best friend Amy in the Paris airport
-The Curtain Call of "Alice in Wonderland" with the kids beaming with joy
-Seeing my friend Brandi's face when we saw the Louvre
-Going to the Copenhagen, Denmark Temple
-Maddie giving me a huge hug when I felt like my heart had broken
-Luana's little belly :)
-Dancing in the car with friends
-Meeting my friend Toffer
-Laughter
As time goes by, I am reminded of what it is all about. Sharing- loving- learning- living. I also am so grateful for the Lord's hand in my life.
I am grateful for all of you, I am grateful for the amazing people that I have met. For the moments we've shared, and the moments we will share. Thank You.

Timing

I remember as a child waiting for the next big thing to happen. Baptism at 8, Dating & Driving at 16... Marriage at...

They say timing is everything. The right time, the right place... The Lord's time. Why is it that the Lord's time never seems to be MY time? And yet, the Lord's timing is perfect. THEN WHY DOES IT SEEM SO HARD SOMETIMES???

I was thinking today about the future, the present, the past... basically giving my brain quite the workout as I fretted about decisions, relationships, my life, up and down, left and right- frankly it was exhausting. In the midst of this I picked up my recent conference Ensign. Now, this past conference, I was travelling so I missed everything except the Sunday afternoon session. So, I've been going through the talks one by one. This morning it was time for Elder Uchtdorf's talk entitled, "The Love of God"
Wow- did I need to read it-
Sometimes I wonder what it really means to love each other, love, as an act is unselfish, but yet most of the time we are so tied up in our own selfish desires and wants when it comes to love that we easily become bitter and resentful. I've been thinking a lot about what does it mean to love God? I love what Elder Uchtdorf said, "No, God does not need us to love him. But oh, how we need to love God! For what we love determines what we seek. What we seek determines what we think and do. What we think and do determines who we are-- and who we will become." I get so caught up in the little annoyances in my life, the fact that I don't have the answers, that I feel so much confusion at times, I forget to love God. My focus becomes murky, my life becomes crazy and I lose sight of the fact that the Lord knows me, loves me, and his timing is perfect.

I am also grateful for people who 'get me' amidst all my idiosyncracies. Thank you.

This is Halloween

Well, it's been one year since I started my blog with a post from Halloween, so what a better way to cap off the year than with another Halloween post! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

With my friend Amy at the Surprise B-day/ Halloween party for her husband Jeff!

Toffer & I were Shaggy & Velma from Scooby Doo!

Ivy was a glamour witch while Annelise was her cat!

Maddie was SUPER GIRL!!

An update since my last post: I am doing much better. I have learned a lot and I know the Lord is mindful of me and all that I need. I am focusing right now and trying to serve and be there for others. I know everything will happen in the Lord's time and I just need to realize that 30 really isn't that old. And when it is my time, I am going to make some guy really lucky to have me as a wife!! So, thanks to all for the positive thoughts and words of encouragement! It's wonderful to know I have so much support! And HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!! BOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's a Hard Knock Life

It's amazing how fast things can change. How in an instant, life is completley different from how it was just the moment before.
My heart is broken... again. Sometimes I wonder how it continues to beat (duct tape must be an amazing thing!) My poor duct-taped together heart that somehow continues to beat... Asking why, why do I give my heart so easily? The eternal optimist? Usually. Tomorrow will be better.
It really stinks when you feel so close and then get blindsided in an instant.
I didn't see it coming. But, I suppose it is for the best.
Live and learn.
I thought this time it would be real, I thought this time I wouldn't have to end up in this place again. But here I am. It's ok.

Thank you for the amazing memories, I learned and grew so much. And I wish you only the best, you deserve it. Thank you for the moment.

You know it's funny, when I look back on my life I can usually see why things happen, but it's just sometimes hard in the moment. I guess some people are in your life for a reason, some people are in your life for a moment- and some are both. I look forward with faith. A little wiser, a little beaten down, but peaceful.
I just want it all, I want to be loved, and sometimes I feel lonely- but I know the Lord is mindful of me and someday I will have what I need.

The Adventures Continue!

It's been awhile since I blogged, so I figured y'all were due for an update. I have to say, I love my life, I have so much fun! I have truly been blessed!!!

In September I had the opportunity to do hair and make-up for my former student Julia for a pageant. She didn't win, but it was fun to be able to do it for her-

Here she is!

I also was able to sing in my Grandma's ward. I happened to have my camera in my purse so I was able to take some pictures with her and my Mom.

Oh, and this guy played the piano for me, he is pretty much one of my favorite people ever.

I also just recently returned from my third annual trek to Disney World for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party! This year I took my friend Charron and my friend Sarah. I am so blessed to have had friends and family who work and have worked for Disney because I am able to visit the parks for free! THANKS BEN & LUANA!!!

And they are expecting a baby soon! I will have a little nephew!!!!

I ate crab for the first time-

And rode my favorite ride ever!

Yep, life is grand!

Next week is spirit week at school, and I have been a little bit stressed. Since I am in charge of student government, I have to organize and spear head all of the crazy activities! AAAA! I just hope it all runs smoothly! I must remember to buy ice cream on my way to school Monday morning. GO LIGERS!

Videos from my classroom

Isiah and Moses pantomiming a Lion and a Lion Tamer!

The infamous Pantomime Birth!

Moses Pantomiming a Mermaid Character!

Oh, I love my job!

Being Inspired

I just finished watching the first episode of the Biggest Loser season eight. Nothing like a wake-up call. There is a woman this season (Abby) who had lost her husband and two children in a car accident- and she has the most amazing positive attitude. She said the following after her 1st week at the ranch, "My experience was totally different, because the fact is that death doesn't scare me, it doesn't. Death would be a much easier choice for me. It's here (meaning the ranch) that's hard. It's getting up and taking that step that's hard. Because there's not anyone else- it is just for me. So, I get up and I give it my best... and it feels good."
I love it.
It's more than just losing the weight, it's making your life the best it can be. Loving others, finding opportunities to serve, learning, growing, making mistakes and living. I think we have one of two choices in life- we can either live daily or die daily. What do we choose?
I also have a friend who never ceases to amaze me with his quiet strength. His determination in the face of such incredible odds inspires me daily. I am privileged to know him.

Back in the Saddle Again!

Tomorrow will be two weeks back in the saddle at school. And already, things are shaping up to be pretty darn wacky!!! I love teaching drama & speech, you never know how the kids will entertain you- my favorite moment of the year thus far-
I was teaching my 8th grade theatre class pantomime and the assignment was to pantomime doing a simple task (for example: painting a wall, throwing a football etc...) So this group of boys go up on the stage to complete their assignment. I knew something was awry when one of the boys laid on his back with his legs spread apart, then the boys proceeded to pantomime a baby's birth with the doctor catching the baby like a football... I died... it was SOOOO funny and unexpected! Hoo-boy!
My classroom has been insanely hot lately. I swear it's inhumane. I can't wait for the weather to cool down. I know it's hard on the kids too, I mean how am I supposed to teach 40+ kids for 90 minutes when the classroom feels like a sauna and smells like a locker room? Someone please give me a raise... or at least a medal. Yeah, I could settle for a medal, and a ticker tape parade- ooh, where I get to wave to the crowd from the back of a convertible! Yes, that would make it all worth it.
So, I was at the grocery store the other day looking at steak when I heard a cow moo... Seriously. It creeped me out, and no, I did not buy steak that day.
Life has been really good lately. I am still working out and have lost 16 lbs!! And I really feel great about my progress. I am learning and growing and I feel at peace with how my life is right now. I have amazing friends and family and I am so grateful for their words of encouragement and support. They never cease to amaze and inspire me.

Ode to a Sweaty Classroom

Well, I survived the first week of school in our non air conditioned building built in 1949! (Although the office has A/C, as does the science/math building which was built in 2004) Today when I should of been paying attention in faculty meeting, I wrote this poem instead-

Ode to a Sweaty Classroom

.

The bell rings, the day has begun

And I wonder when my mascara will run-

The intense heat, minds are a whirlin'

How long till the fans start a twirlin'?

.

Attempt to stay awake- learn something too.

But with this heat? Oh what can you do?

And in addition, the smell is o'powering

You'd think by now the kids would 'get' showering!

.

The day is done- you drag your tired feet

Wondering how you could ever repeat...

The sun is shining, oh when will it end?

The pits, the back- You're sweating AGAIN!

.

Try to look cute? HA! That's a laugh!

With all of this heat? I wish I taught math-

Then A/C would be my blessed, blessed friend

In the science building, I wish I could send!

.

Alas, the heat is here- come now to stay

At least until fall- when it'll finally go away!

And, so I bear it all with a smile-

Because I love it- the kids are worthwhile.

.

So, I entertain and try now to teach-

289 kids... yep, all within my reach.

Though I smell- look like a wilted flower...

Let's face facts- I REALLY NEED A SHOWER!

.

Here we go again-

Next Monday starts my 4th year as a teacher. Where does the time go? I am excited, but also apprehensive and irritated that I still don't have a sound system, blinds in my classroom and a light board that is functioning. I know I will have tons of stress putting together a show with blood, sweat, tears and duct tape... for one brief shining moment. It's coming so soon!

I have no problem believing in others, seeing their potential, having complete faith in them. Why do I falter with myself? Recently, I've been working with a personal trainer. I started with him before I went to Europe and have been working with him since. He is VERY expensive. I've learned the key to results is really the food you eat more than working out, but I digress. I originally signed up for 20 sessions which round out to about $45 bucks a pop. You do the math... Anyway, I knew the end of my sessions would be coming really soon, I just didn't realize how soon. Tonight he texted me and told me I have five sessions left and he was wondering if I am planning to continue...
I want to. I really want to. I see it as an investment in myself. But, after Europe, my new car last January and day to day life- I cannot afford it.
Besides having him train me, he is such a source of knowledge, and there is the accountability factor. I really want to continue until I reach my goals.
I guess I am just doubting that I can be successful without him. I know on some level I can be, but I've finally felt empowered and like "this is it"...

I went and saw Julie & Julia this evening. Delightful. I miss cooking, I don't do it much for myself. I love food... hence my problem.

Have I learned enough to fly solo? I have no intentions of being super muscular, I just want to be healthy. I like my curves, they just need to be smaller, I like being feminine. Why is it that I have more faith in others than I ever have for myself?

Shhhh... don't tell anyone!

So, I have a secret. Don't let my students know.

I love being a teacher. NO REALLY- DON'T LET THEM KNOW!

As the summer is quickly winding to a close, my thoughts have started thinking about the upcoming school year and I can't help but get a little excited! I have always loved the start of a new school year, the anticipation, the back to school shopping and starting out with a clean slate! Ahhhhh!

So many things in my life have been uncertain, being a teacher is not one of them. Although I may complain at times, may get discouraged, may wonder if it is worth it. I remember, it is. It just makes my heart happy, thinking of the wonderful things that will shape this upcoming school year, the students I will meet and who will have such a profound impact on me. I love these kids, I hope they know that. I can't think of a higher honor than being a teacher.

Things I love about it:

-I am the master of my domain!

-Making the kids laugh by being goofy and doing accents!

-Being there for a student when they need someone to listen

-Seeing a student 'get it'

-Quiet moments

- The applause at the musicals (curtain call always makes me cry when I see my kids take their well-deserved bows, it makes all the headaches, long hours and pain worth it for one shining moment to see the looks on their faces as they bask in the moment!)

-Giving a kid a chance

- Sharing my passion with my students

-Telling stories

- Students just stopping by to say hi

-A Student's genuine smile

-Sharing our lives

-Knowing that in some small way, I can change the world.

Look out world, here I come! :)

Oh dear...

So, I was at the gym yesterday and there was a commercial for a limited edition Michael Jackson lithograph. Which in of itself, isn't very strange. But what I found to be strange was the way the commercial presented the product. A woman hung it on the wall and there were candles all around as she stroked the portrait. I found it to be creepy.
I think it is interesting how people immortalize dead celebrities. I also find it to be a bit creepy.

The power of Hope

I love the word Hope. Hope that someday all the craziness will make sense. Hope that my dreams will come true. In the darkest moments, Hope is still there.
Sometimes it seems like Hope is all I have to hold onto. But, it is enough.

Hope for a dream-

Hope for a love-

Hope for tomorrow-

Hope for a smile-

Hope for a difference.

I truly do love my life. Even the things I don't understand, because then I can grow and learn.

The joys of an ice cold Diet Dr. Pepper

Ahhhhhh... I love ice. While I was in Europe, I developed a greater appreciation for ice. Cold Drinks, Air Conditioning...

I also LOVE DIET DR. PEPPER! Yes, I know it is caffeinated and yes it is carbonated, but oh so tasty! And whereas I am trying to not eat sweets, sometimes it just hits the spot! Ahhhhh!

As y'all know (who read this blog with some frequency) I've been rather pensive these last few months, trying to figure out a lot of things, learning from a lot of things and making a lot of mistakes. So what conclusions have I reached?

In short, very few. I used to scoff at the saying 'the older I get the more I realize the less I know', or something like that- I think this is becoming my new mantra. When I was younger, I knew EVERYTHING, had all the answers, I was very smart. And now... life has schooled me. And not always in the most pleasant way. But, I do know, no matter what it is important to try to maintain a positive attitude and enjoy the happiness in life. Forgive others when they have hurt your feelings, spend time with those who love you, take time to dream...

What is it that prevents us from reaching our full potential? When I first started this blog, I talked about my desire to lose weight, and my efforts to do it. And here I am, months later in essentially the same situation- why?

I got home from Europe a week ago, lost 4.5 lbs. (A result of a ton of walking), worked out all week, but ate whatever I wanted. As a result, I am dreading seeing my trainer tomorrow as he gives me the I am disappointed in you look. What is stopping me? I feel like sometimes I am two people- the conscious me and the unconscious me. The conscious me is aware, goes to the Gym, sets goals, takes care of herself... the unconscious me is autopilot and before I know it, I've eaten a half gallon of ice cream in one day (which happened to me last week). The unconscious me doesn't give a rat's patootie about changing and becoming better. And when it comes to eating, the unconscious me often rules the day. I guess this could also be comparable to the natural man.

Becoming aware.

Ms. Parkes goes to Europe! (A brief overview of her awesome trip!)

On July 1st I started my whirlwind trip of Europe!

At Notre Dame with Amy (who lives in Paris!)

At the Eiffel Tower!

Day Two- July 2nd-

At the gates of Versailles

My heat rash (not fun, it was VERY hot that day and that combined with jet lag... hoo boy!)

At the Queen's Hamlet at Versailles
(a place where Marie Antionette would go "play" peasant.)

Day Three- July 3rd-

At St. Chapelle

I was perplexed by the Parisian Cafe's and how all the seats would be turned out so the diners could view the passing public...

Day Four- July 4th- Travel to Munich, Germany

Nate taking a picture of us getting off our overnight train!

At the opera house with my good friend Nate who lives in Germany!

With Brandi at the Hofbrauhaus a world famous beer hall!

Day Five- July 5th-

Brandi & I after Church

Nate & I in the gardens at Nymphenburg Palace

Day Six- July 6th-

At Lake Alpsee near Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle (Unfortunatley covered with scaffolding for a remodel)

Day Seven- July 7th- Day trip to Salzburg, Austria

Dancing at the Mirabell Gardens where they filmed scenes from the

"Sound of Music"

At the Sound of Music Gazebo (Unfortunaltey we couldn't go inside, too many people hurt themselves trying to reinact "16 going on 17".

Day Eight- July 8th- Last day in Germany-

Memorial at Dachau concentration camp

Nate & Katherine seeing us off at the train station (we stayed with Katherine while in Munich)

And leaving apparently caused a hoe-down!

Day Nine- July 9th- Danmark!

Eating my 1st Danish meal!

With the Little Mermaid

Day Ten- July 10th-

The original Christus Statue in Copenhagen

On top of the Rundetarn overlooking the city

In Tivoli Gardens

Day Eleven- July 11th- Last day In Danmark

Eating a Danish!

At Kronberg Castle

A Lion at Friedricksberg Castle

Day Twelve- July 12th- Back to Paris

After spending a day of travel, we spent the evening at Disneyland Paris

The Fireworks

So Happy!

Day Thirteen- July 13th-

At the Louvre

At the Paris Opera House

Eating dinner at a street cafe!

Day Fourteen- July 14th-

Glory be and the saints be praised, I found a Dr. Pepper!

Sassy at the Moulin Rouge!

With Amy & Charron at the Arc de Triomphe

Day Fifteen- July 15th- Last day!

Charron & I after riding the Tower of Terror at Disneyland Paris!

Brandi & I at the Rockin' Rollercoaster!

About to go on Small World!

So, there ya have it folks, a brief overview of my trip! And it really is a small world after all!

Auf Wiedersehn, Au revoir and Farvel!