....

Just a few notes:

1. Why is it easiest to break the Sabbath with a family member?
2. Yesterday, I was in the bathroom as the same person twice at work. Neither time did this said person wash their hands. What?
3. Upon leaving work, I heard the janitor whistling the Harry Potter theme song.
4. I really like my parents.
5. And I really like all my family.
6. Blind dates are fun.
7. Not as fun as Lava Hot Springs or reading Percy Jackson.

:0)

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com

I figure this has been around for a while, but recently, it has really made me laugh so hard.

4th Verbal Recap

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."
Excerpt from The Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson

I really do love America.

Almost every single year since I can remember, I have attended a flag raising ceremony at the church building. Turns out my mom started this tradition. I didn't even know. Most of the ward shows up and members of the community. It starts with the flag being raised, the Pledge of Allegiance being said, musical numbers, and somebody talking about how wonderful America is. Usually it's someone who has served in the armed forces. It's really special.

The thing I learned this year is how lucky we are to have a fair trial. In so many countries, this actually isn't the case. My parents told me that so far in Kenya, 9 people have been burned for being witches. What? That actually still happens? This is a right that we are guaranteed. Even if we're guilty. I can't help but draw conclusions to our Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, who pleads for us and has enabled us to be free from the sins we have committed and provided a way for us to be perfect and whole.

Also, we have to learn to be good citizens. We have to have opportunities for that to develop. Being able to attend these flag raising ceremonies has made a huge difference in my life. I'm grateful for the example of others and their love for their country that has instilled in me the desire to keep this country free.

Later that night, we watched the fireworks. All the kids loaded up and most of them ended up on top of the suburban. I climbed up there and really enjoyed the chance to hear their commentary. It was sobering to hear my two 19 year-old nephews talking about how they won't be around next year for the 4th. I am proud of them for serving missions and teaching the power of repentance. I'll miss them for sure.

As I was sitting on top of the suburban, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for this country and all the opportunities that are afforded to me. I know that this country has been built with the hand of God. I hope that it will continue to be a blessed & promised land.

How's that for a little bit of rambling? :0)

Phones

The first benefit of my parents being home:

I got to talk to my mom during lunch. I didn't have to worry about having enough minutes on my calling card, feedback or hoping that the call would even go through. Best thing ever! I haven't been able to do that for 3 years. I think I just found a new past time. I guess I didn't realize what I was missing out on. Sure, I'd call my sisters every once in a while, but there's something about talking to your mom whenever you want. Wow.