Sledding

We went sledding for the second time during the break. It was a blast. We ended up in some hollow that Greg knew about. For the kid's sake I called it sleepy hollow. There were hills on both sides, though a much bigger one on the north side, and a creek in the middle. The creek was covered with snow in parts, alas in other parts is was about a two foot drop off into mud or the trickle of a creek. Surprisingly what little water was flowing down was not frozen.

There were near misses all day, a few minor wrecks, and then of course it was Porter who ended up in the muddy creek.

The fun ended when Porter, who never did look where he was going, not that he could cause his hat kept slipping over his eyes, ended up in the mud pit. He was on the tube and just kept going, of course he couldn't see at all and didn't know he needed to stop. He was a muddy mess. As with most people Porter doesn't like to be embarrassed so he was done at that point and so were the rest of us.

Here are my insights:
You can't really turn a sled, once you are going there is only just a little you can do to change your direction.

No matter what someone is gonna crash hard.

Go off jumps on a tube, not a plastic sled.

Walking up to the big hill was a long process in which the little ones struggled mightily. However they trudged on undeterred to the top. Many times they made it up crawling.

It was nice to have an assortment of sleds and tubes, thanks Greg and Biffy and friends.

Kids don't wait for others to get out of the way, they just try to avoid them.
Which is less effective.

When your ride is over, get outta the way, fast.

Christmas Review

So in case you are wondering just what I got for 90% off; it was a set of knives. I was just lucky. It is a great set, I am still in awe I got them for what I did.

Here are my thoughts on this year's Christmas:
My cousin Zach collected Pokemon cards when he was younger, he has A Lot. I asked if Porter could have some of his doubles. He obliged. So in other words this was a free gift. Let's just say from when he opened his stocking and found them to now he hasn't let them out of his hands. By far his favorite present. Forget the toys that cost $ he is happy with just the free cards.

Christmas for teens is a bit awkward. They want expensive stuff, but still want a lot of gifts. So when they get just an ipod, which costs more than the little ones combined they feel shafted because the little ones get a lot more gifts. Actually they didn't complain, but you get a sense of "that's all?" as Porter and Natalie keep opening presents and they have no more.

Driving home from the mouth of base of little Cottonwood canyon during the snowstorm was a bit scary. It took twice as long, the roads were not plowed, the van slid here and there. Yea I am glad that is over. I haven't been that nervous driving in a long time.

Getting a new golf club is great, but not being able to hit with cause of all the snow sucks.

Why don't they sell Egg Nog year round?

I will miss having neighbors bring over snacks for the day.

I am glad we get our living room back.

Nativity sets can get awfully expensive

I will miss the giving. I had a friend who when asked about favorite Christmas stories he would reply with "Why should I wait til Christmas to give?" I like that attitude. Certainly there is a holiness to the day the Savior was born, he was God's best gift. We give gifts to others to show our love and appreciation for them. But as my friend would say "Why wait til Christmas?" We don't have to buy the latest craze, we should give our time and of ourselves. That is really how we show others we care anyhow. By supporting them, being there, and giving our time and our love. And that is something we can do year round.

update

Janalynn informed me last night she read the blog. Glad I didn't put it in the last post.

Getting a Great Deal

I think most people want to get a great deal. I know that I want to get a high quality item at the lowest possible price. I know that you get what you pay for, so you have to make sure that what you are after is high quality. I have been searching for Janalynn's Christmas present for the past month. NOTE:I have to be a little cryptic because she may read the blog before the big day. Actually she is so busy right now that I almost want to risk it, but I am not going to.

So anyhow I have gone to about five different stores and looked at more places online to educate myself on this certain product. Let's just say that the real low end is about $20-30 and high end is upwards of $250 but it could get even more pricey. The problem is you get what you pay for with this product. After much thought I had decided that Target had the best quality/price for this item. Until today. A little bit of inspiration led me to Kohls. I have only been there one other time. I know they have killer sales so I was hoping.

After browsing and realizing it was going to be more than I wanted to pay I was about to leave when I looked down and found a package out of place in a different section. It was what I was looking for. Price tag $249.99. I went to put it back on the shelf, when to my amazement on the other side was a tag 80% off for $49.99. Then to greater amazement it was marked down to 90% off or $24.99. I stood in disbelief. What I had decided on was just as much, but not even in the same ball park for quality and even size. I ran to the counter and paid for it. Almost feeling like I had shoplifted.

I mean how often do you find an item that is regularly priced for a couple hundred bucks marked down 90%? They almost gave it away. Anyhow I will let you know what the product was after Jan opens it. Suffice to say I came home and opened it up just to make sure it was really in the box and that it was the quality I thought it was. And yes sure enough it was. I love finding the best deal. I enjoy the research behind it. I just hope Janalynn likes it as much as I like the deal.

Scrooge

My cousin Matt started a tradition a few years ago to get together and watch Scrooge, the Albert Finney version. This is good for a lot of reasons, first off it is great to see everyone and there are so many little ones, they just have a blast. Of course the food is great, but what I like best is the actual story; A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. There is much to like about the story. Most of you know it so I won't tell it, but what I will do is explain why I like it.

I like the whole redemption theme. Scrooge is going to hell and must change his life to change his destination. Truly he is an awful guy, I mean he is the definition of miser. Then the ghosts come and he sees life from other perspectives and decides to make changes.

And change he does. While Ebenezer is not a sympathetic character himself, you want him to succeed in his transformation. Here is Dickens own description
“External heat and cold had little influence on Scrooge. No warmth could warm, no wintry weather chill him. No wind that blew was bitterer than he, no falling snow was more intent upon its purpose, no pelting rain less open to entreaty.”
And my favorite “Darkness is cheap, and Scrooge liked it.”
My favorite part is the dancing on the coffin scene with everyone singing "Thank you very much" because he died. But what I like is that after he changes his vision of the future becomes reality, but not because he died, but because he finally started living.

Watching this makes me want to be a better person. That is the best thing about it. It is an inspiring story for all us have things we want to change about ourselves, and if Scrooge can change than anyone can.

I will end with some of my fav. quotes. I also really like the script. I think Cratchet is such a great character and love that he toasts to his rotten boss, thankful for the small things.
Here are my favorite lines:
Ebenezer Scrooge: Fifteen shillings a week, a wife and five children... and he still talks of a Merry Christmas!

the Ghost of Christmas Present
"We are at the home of one Robert Cratchet. You may look through the window, it will cost you nothing, which I'm sure is good news for you. "
Ebeneezer Scrooge
"Will they be able to see me? "
the Ghost of Christmas Present
"No, which I am sure is good news for them."

Scrooge "I will start anew/I will make amends/and I will make quite certain/that the story ends/on a note of hope/on a strong amen/and I'll thank the world/and remember when/I was able to begin again!"

the Ghost of Jacob Marley
"Hello, Ebeneezer. I've been waiting here for you... No one else wanted to come."

[a knock at the door]
Scrooge: Plague and damnation! Can't they see that I'm trying to run a business here?
[He flings the door open]
Fred: Uncle Ebenezer! I cannot tell you what a joy it is to see your happy, smiling face.
Scrooge: Oh... it's you.

the Ghost of Christmas Present: There is never enough time to do or say all the things that we would wish. The thing is to try to do as much as you can in the time that you have. Remember Scrooge, time is short, and suddenly, you're not here any more.

Ebenezer Scrooge: Why do you walk the earth? Why'd you come to persecute me and what is that great chain you wear?
the Ghost of Jacob Marley: I wear the chain I forged in life. I made it, link by link and yard by yard, while on Earth and now, I will never be rid of it any more than you will ever be rid of yours!
Ebenezer Scrooge: Mine?
the Ghost of Jacob Marley: It was as heavy and long as this seven Christmases ago. It's a terrible, ponderous chain you are making, Scrooge!
Ebenezer Scrooge: Tell me more, Marley, but speak comfort to me!
the Ghost of Jacob Marley: I have none to give.
Ebenezer Scrooge: None?
the Ghost of Jacob Marley: Comfort comes from other sources, Ebenezer Scrooge, and it's given by other ministers than I to other kinds of men than you. When I lived, my spirit, like yours, never walked beyond the narrow limits of our counting house.
Ebenezer Scrooge: But, you were always a good man of business, Jacob.
the Ghost of Jacob Marley: Mankind should be our business, Ebenezer, but we seldom attend to it."

Fred: A Merry Christmas, Uncle Ebenezer! God save you.
Ebenezer Scrooge: God save me from Christmas. It's another humbug.
Fred: Christmas a humbug? Come now. I'm sure you don't mean that.
Ebenezer Scrooge: And I'm sure that I do mean that. Merry Christmas indeed. What reason have you got to be merry? You're poor enough.
Fred: What reason have you got to be miserable? You're rich enough.
Ebenezer Scrooge: There is no such thing as "rich" enough. Only poor enough.
Fred: Don't be so dismal Uncle Ebenezer!
Ebenezer Scrooge: What else can I be when I live in a world full of fools babbling "Merry Christmas" at one another? What's Christmas but a time for finding yourself a year older and not a day richer? There's nothing merry in that. If I could work my will, nephew, every idiot who goes about with "Merry Christmas" on his lips should be boiled with his own pudding and buried with a steak of holly through his heart.

Chicken Cordon made me blue

So Arbys has been showing this ad for a chicken cordon bleu. After seeing for the upteenth time I finally gave in. Man was that disappointing. I knew it wasn't going to be the greatest ever, but I would have rather eaten just a melt instead. You can't taste the cheese, the ham is beyond weak, the bun too much. It just wasn't all that good and I was completely disappointed. My advice-don't do it.

Porter's Missing Tooth

Okay so here we are halfway through the month and I have yet to post. Honestly I have been busy and part of me just doesn't have a whole lot to say right now. Surprising isn't it.

Porter lost his first tooth. To me this is one of the final milestones of the Pre-K stage. It will be cool to have him in school next year, but at the same time I will miss having a Pre-K kid. We have had them for a long time. Once he goes to school it will all be different. Not bad or even good just different. Believe me I am excited to have him old enough to take to games with me, or shoot hoops, play catch, go fishing, or any other dad/son activity. I think it is the end of innocence thing that is sad.

He was funny about the tooth thing. He wanted to go to bed by himself, which we are of course using against him in the aftermath. He was expecting five dollars. I warned him before hand that was a lofty aspiration, and while I appreciated his hope, it wasn't going to happen. Janalynn couldn't find the tooth upon the money exchange, but somehow he found it the next day and proudly carries it in his wallet. At tithing settlement today, he whipped it out for the bishop(none of us knew he had it prior to that). Not sure how long he will keep it before he loses it, but I can't imagine it will last a whole lot longer.

Religion and Sports

This week's Sunday topic is religion and sports. In a quick scripture search I found no references to football, basketball, or really any sporting events. That means this is my opinion. As with most things on the blog take it for what it is, but feel free to agree, dissent, or offer something up I didn't. I have to admit that part of this is in response to last year's comment by Austin Collie of BYU, who after beating Utah said “When you're doing what's right on and off the field, I think the Lord steps in and plays a part; magic happens.” What this statement also means, and I am sure Collie didn't realize the repercussions when he originally said it, is that when you lose you must have done something wrong. You can't have it both ways using his logic. If living righteously gives you divine help and privilege, then unrighteous living brings no help. For BYU it means when you lose, someone(s) must have sinned, else the Lord would have helped them win.

Of course this notion is flawed from the start. First of all if God really cared then BYU or Notre Dame for that matter would never lose. Obviously that is not the case. Sports are bring out many great qualities in people, they also bring out some of the worst. I just don't think God is worried about who wins a football game. Again if He was worried then the favored team would win. I think He wants everyone to do their best, to play with sportsmanship, but as far as winning or losing, I think we are the ones who care about that.

I find it interesting when players are willing to give God the credit for victory or for a great performance. As if they are favored above all the other players or their team is greater in the eyes of the Lord than the other. If God is no respecter of persons than this notion of being rewarded for righteous living doesn't quite fit nor does the opposite punishment for sinning behavior. Plenty of athletes break rules, take performance enhancing drugs, live an immoral life of the field and still perform well on the field.

I didn't hear Austin Collie say that the reason the Cougars lost to the Utes was because the Utes were more righteous. Or that Max Hall had a poor performance because he has been living unrighteously lately. He was quick to say it in victory, but in defeat he never discussed the subject.

I am not trying to demonize Austin Collie. From all accounts he is a good person who said what I believe to be a silly comment. I would have said the same of any player on any team had they made that comment. Certainly God blesses those who live righteously. But there are plenty of athletes who don't who do just fine as well. I happen to think that God is more worried about our eternal salvation than whether a team wins a relatively meaningless game (in the grand scheme of things). Sports can be fun, they can help us gain confidence, strength, and give us qualities such as persistence, diligence, and hard work. But I just don't think God pulls out the pom poms and cheers each week.

State of the Jazz

After attending the game the other night I have a few observations;

The team plays completely different with Deron Williams at the helm. He ended up with 15 assists and really only played about half the game. He just runs the team better than anyone else. I noticed that a few times guys miscalculated passes because you could tell they weren't used to receiving the pass where they were on the court. This will change soon and everyone will be better for it. Nice to have him back.

The biggest revelation of the night was that Paul Millsap may very well be the answer to the Boozer question. It has been rumored that Boozer will leave the Jazz after this year. Let me make a point real quick. Boozer came to the Jazz after stiffing the Cavs, sure we have been happy to have him, but at the same time because of the way he came here, everyone--management included, realizes he could leave the same way. The historical problem with being a traitor is no one trusts you. If you sold out your "friends" who won't you sell out? So yeah no one should trust him. I like Boozer but want to be prepared if he leaves.

Okay onto Millsap. This season in a back up role he is averaging 12.2 pts 7 R 1.3 Bl per game. Boozer is averaging 20.5 Pts 11.7 R 0.25 Blocks. Admittedly there is a major difference in those numbers. But lets dissect this more. Millsap has been playing with the second team, meaning he doesn't get to play with the better players as much as Boozer does. Now let's look at how Millsap has done when he got to start. He scored 24 & 21 (22.5 avg) rebounded 16 & 10(13 avg) and had a block each game. Now I know he is not quite the force that Boozer is. But he is a MUCH better defender and won't cost nearly as much. I imagine the Jazz could sign him for half of what they pay Boozer and get a much tougher guy, more heart, better defender, more hustle, just as good of a rebounder, not quite the scorer, BUT and here is the thing, I trust Millsap. He has worked extremely hard to get to this point. I think if the Jazz have any, and I mean any, reason to believe that Boozer will bolt--then he should be dealt and Millsap should be signed long term.

Ronnie Price is no point guard. No assists in the game I was at. He looked for himself, forced bad shots, and made poor decisions. I predict if he continues to play as such Brevin Knight will get his minutes.

Brewer and Okur are different players with Williams on the floor. Both should be rejoicing that he is back.

I am not happy that all these guys are hurt, but all these guys getting extra minutes will turn out to be a big deal in the long run.

I was a critic of the Jazz signing Miles. I am still not a big fan, but Harpring looks awful. He is way too slow. I like his toughness but his days are numbered. Props to the Jazz for recognizing this and being ahead of the game instead of behind. He still has a lot to work on, but at least he is a viable option.

Go Jazz

Hitler reacts to BYU loss

My favorite creation yet on the game

Undefeated AGAIN

Porter came running in the house and said, "Dad look" He had a football in his arms. I said, "Where did you get that?" He said, "Some funny looking guy named Max was throwing the football with some kids, so I ran in front and caught it." I told him that is called and interception and that Max Hall is good at throwing them.

All kidding aside I never thought I would see another undefeated BCS buster season. That's right the original BCS busters are back. This season has been so different from 04. In 04 the Utes routed every team they played. It was fun to watch, fast break on turf as they dubbed it. This year the games have been closer. But I will always argue that it is much more fun and rewarding to come from behind and win in the last seconds than pulverize a team. TCU and Oregon State are evidence of that.

This game was billed from the start of the year as perhaps the best game, more on the line, than any in the rivalry's history. BYU's loss dampened that a little, but still there was a lot on this game. If Utah lost, then only a shared conference title, no BCS bowl game, a lesser bowl, and of course they would have lost to their hated rivals. Luckily that didn't happen. Now Utah will get a bowl game around the New Year and get to play in a much better bowl than the Las Vegas bowl.

Favorite moments of the night:
The Utes standing up to the haka. On personal note, the fact that they do this is STUPID. This is part of Maori culture, it is a war dance. It is meant as an insult and to pick a fight. I am glad that the Utes got up in their grills and let them know that they weren't going to tolerate their insults.

Brian Johnson throwing the ball. This turned out to be a very good thing for the Utes.

Max Hall throwing the ball. This turned out to be a very good thing for the Utes.

Paul Kruger. Have to admit I have a man crush. The guy is a phenom.

Philly Cheese Steak Pizza. Almost as good as the game. Yes it is that good.

Power Run by Asiata, as well as his touchdown pass

We had one Cougar fan in the midst of red. She changed her shirt at the end of the game. Didn't want to be seen in public with it on.

48-24 Scoreboard!

I have enjoyed the comebacks all year, but I am glad this one was out of question in the end.


Finally, I would love to ask Collie about Max not living right. I mean it is completely obvious that he must have some honor code violations. That is the only way his performance makes sense. Someone needs to investigate this.

Link

My cousin has a neat feature on her blog where she has her mother write a memory. This past week it was about my dad. Here is the link. My dad would have loved the political season, the Jazz, and the holidays.

Fringe

I used to like the X-Files when it was canceled nothing took its place. That is until Fringe. I will say that Fringe is not entirely like the X-Files, but it is similar. Let me say that from the first episode I knew this was going to be a good series. It has what I like; good actors, compelling stories, great characters. I also really like that the stories are different. They are not the same tired law and order or csi stuff. They are unique and suspenseful. The interplay between the characters is well balanced and works nicely. I think this is a great show. I actually look more forward to it than any other. And just in case you haven't tried it, all the episodes are available online. If you are in the mood for something that will keep you guessing in suspense, full of drama, yet able to make you laugh then give it a shot.

Here are just a couple quick hits on why I like it.

The opening music is fantastic and really sets the stage.

During commercials it will tell you how long you have. Since I use the dvr I know how many times I have to hit the 30 second button.

I like the four main characters. They are all unique. I like a variety when it comes to characters. Too many times do I think that the characters are too similar. I mean when you watch a cop show you know that one guy is going to break all the rules, another is the sassy, sarcastic guy, another is the tough guy etc...In this case these characters break the molds. I like them all.

The show is mysterious. It keeps you guessing and has had some thought provoking moments.

The fringe science part is just plain cool.

Each episode is unique, yet part of a bigger picture.

I just really like this show. It is refreshing and smart.

So far every episode has something a little bit different.

Give it a shot if you haven't already, I will promise that it will be different.

Sunday Doctrine--Agency

I am going to add a new feature to the blog. The Sunday Doctrine. I will tackle whatever doctrinal topic I want to. Today I have chosen Free Agency. In my mind this is one of the most misunderstood doctrines of the gospel. I am not going to get into every aspect of it, it is too big for that. I am going to cover a few areas that I think we overlook.

First off I hear some say that "if there was a God how could He allow bad things to happen?" or "I can't believe in a God who would allow such a thing(pick your poison) to happen?" This thinking shows a lack of understanding about free agency. He cannot stop people from making bad decisions, even evil ones. That is contrary to the plan as well as free agency. For what would free agency be if God stopped us when we were going to do something bad? I can tell you it would not be free agency.

The great thing about free agency is that no one can force us to choose. It also means that we can't force others to choose either. That means that we will make poor decisions and so will others. Some of these decisions will be cruel, mean, and disgusting, yet God has to allow them to happen. He has to allow everyone the right to exercise their agency. To complain that God allows bad things to happen not only shows a lack of understanding, it also is not His plan. It is Satan's plan. Stopping us from making mistakes, instead of choosing to do what is right.

It can be tough to watch other's make poor decisions. Watching my own kids flounder is hard and heart wrenching, yet it has to be that way. We can certainly influence for good, but ultimately everyone has to CHOOSE to be good and not be forced.

Another aspect of this is since we are in charge of our choices we have to ask before God can help. Certainly he knows we are in need, but He is held in check by free agency and can't act until we ask. That is why the scripture Ask and ye shall receive is repeated throughout scripture. Certainly God is all knowing and all powerful but if He were to give us what we need without us asking then this would go against our agency. That is why prayer is stressed so much. Communication is essential to receive blessings. Now God will help us out and guide us but is up to us ask for his help.

You will hear people talk about the power of prayer and this is exactly it, God blesses us when we ask. Think about the basics of the gospel. Prayer is probably the most basic of all teachings, yet also the most repeated. Why? Because most of us don't do real good job of it. I have always said that I can say a real good heartfelt prayer when I am in definite need. But for the most part my prayers are perfunctory and far from exceptional. I keep myself down by not asking.

I will end with Elder Holland's description of the Savior and how even he, the only sinless and perfect one, had to suffer.

"On some days we will have cause to remember the unkind treatment he received, the rejection he experienced, and the injustice—oh, the injustice—he endured. When we, too, then face some of that in life, we can remember that Christ was also troubled on every side, but not distressed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed (see 2 Cor. 4:8–9).

When those difficult times come to us, we can remember that Jesus had to descend below all things before he could ascend above them, and that he suffered pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind that he might be filled with mercy and know how to succor his people in their infirmities (see D&C 88:6; Alma 7:11–12).

To those who stagger or stumble, he is there to steady and strengthen us. In the end he is there to save us, and for all this he gave his life. However dim our days may seem they have been darker for the Savior of the world.

In fact, in a resurrected, otherwise perfected body, our Lord of this sacrament table has chosen to retain for the benefit of his disciples the wounds in his hands and his feet and his side—signs, if you will, that painful things happen even to the pure and perfect. Signs, if you will, that pain in this world is not evidence that God doesn’t love you. It is the wounded Christ who is the captain of our soul—he who yet bears the scars of sacrifice, the lesions of love and humility and forgiveness."
from "This do in remembrance of me" Oct 95 conference

Food Drive

I know I am not the best teacher. I am certain that if asked my students could give a never ending detailed list of things I am not so good at. Luckily for all of us I am good at some things. One thing I know I do well is motivate. It was my saving grace as an at risk teacher. When in doubt I would share an inspiring story and then encourage my students to do their best.

One of my biggest adjustments is not having class time(I taught a study/social skills class) to be motivating. But I found just what I was looking for a few weeks ago; the food drive. This was something I knew that students would get into.

We received an email from the principal to encourage students in our classes. I knew that wouldn't be enough so I started the food drive challenge in my classes. Each class would compete against the others, six in all, to see who would bring in the most items. Within the school the students were competing in grade levels and would put the items in box for each grade near the office.

We have talked a lot about the economy during the election process so the kids had a decent idea as to how bad things are for families right now. I told them that each item represented a meal to someone who had nothing, so no matter whether they could spare one, five, or ten it would be significant to someone who had a bare cupboard. And knowing kids I added don't take everything out of your own pantry or else we will have to do the food drive for you--and that will defeat the purpose. Bring what you CAN.

The food drive lasted for three weeks and most of the students brought in an item or more. I am always impressed at how kind we can be when we are focused on helping others. It is part of the American spirit. I had students that went out on their own and knock the doors on their street and bring in 70+ items, others went to the store and spent their own money and buy items. Each morning was exciting as kids buzzed around the room bringing in items and counting them and adding them to their class number.

At the start of the this week we had around 700 items from all my classes. Two of my classes were in a real battle for first. The other classes lost some steam as they realized they were behind by a seemingly insurmountable number. So I gave the best speech I could on Monday, I talked again of the economy, I talked about how some students had approached me and told me they couldn't bring anything because there was nothing to bring in, I told them one of my favorite sayings, that I would take a B/C student any day that was a good person over an A student that was a jerk.
I made a challenge for the week to see which class could bring in the most for this the last week. Each class was even again, although we kept the totals, we would have a winner for the week and an overall winner.

The food drive ended today. This week alone they brought in well over 1,000 items. They ran their own food drives in their neighborhoods to help out the community. In the end my 170 students averaged 10 items per person with the total over 2000 items. The most any one student brought in was 156. The 9th grade box was overflowing with items today. Each class brought in over 100 items during the three weeks, the high class brought in over 500. Ironically the class that won was in second to last place before this week with 84 items, they brought in 428 this week alone, winning the week as well as the overall champs. I am certain my classes brought in roughly as much as the rest of the school combined.

When I spoke with the principal she wanted to buy all the classes doughnuts for their efforts. I hedged and told her they didn't need a reward for what they had done. She argued and said that since there was no expectation of a prize that this was a fine way of showing appreciation for their service. So we are getting doughnuts on Monday.

One final thing. I had a student who didn't bring in anything from the winning class approach me in the lunchroom. We will call him Mark. Mark pulled out his wallet and said he felt bad that he didn't bring anything in. He said he felt hypocritical being in the class that had brought in the most when he had not brought in any himself. He pulled out a ten and gave it to me. I told Mark he didn't have to do this, he could donate to another cause, another time. He looked me in the eyes, and said, "Take the money, I can't live with myself knowing I didn't help out." I took the cash and shook Mark's hand. For a moment we shook hands and stared at one another. A knowing look crossed both our faces. A simple act, yet so profound.

So yeah I am far from perfect, I have bad days, bad moments. I make mistakes and am many times my own worst disruption. I know most of the day to day stuff will be forgotten. But the feeling we all had when we added up the numbers, the satisfaction that beamed when we realized what we had done and how many people would be effected by it, the look in Mark's eyes as we shook hands. Those make it all worthwhile. And that's why I am excited each morning to go to school. It may sound funny or even corny but in reality it is true. I truly enjoy what I do and that makes all the difference.

Timely Counsel

The quote by Elder Maxwell almost 30 years ago seems to speak directly to what we're dealing with today. Thought I'd pass it along...

"Make no mistake about it, brothers and sisters, in the months and years ahead, events are likely to require each member to decide whether or not he will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions. President Marion G. Romney said, many years ago, that he had 'never hesitated to follow the counsel of the Authorities of the Church even though it crossed my social, professional or political life.' "This is hard doctrine, but it is particularly vital doctrine in a society which is becoming more wicked. In short, brothers and sisters, not being ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ includes not being ashamed of the prophets of Jesus Christ. . . . Your discipleship may see the time when such religious convictions are discounted. . . . This new irreligious imperialism seeks to disallow certain opinions simply because those opinions grow out of religious convictions.


"Resistance to abortion will be seen as primitive. Concern over the institution of the family will be viewed as un-trendy and unenlightened.... Before the ultimate victory of the forces of righteousness, some skirmishes will be lost. Even in these, however, let us leave a record so that the choices are clear, letting others do as they will in the face of prophetic counsel. There will also be times, happily, when a minor defeat seems probable, but others will step forward, having been rallied to rightness by what we do. We will know the joy, on occasion, of having awakened a slumbering majority of the decent people of all races and creeds which was, till then, unconscious of itself. Jesus said that when the fig trees put forth their leaves, 'summer is nigh.' Thus warned that summer is upon us, let us not then complain of the heat."

Elder Neal A. Maxwell, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
"A More Determined Discipleship", Ensign, Feb. 1979

Latest Talk of Bailout--I'm less thrilled with

The housing crisis led to the $700 billion bailout about a month ago. Now there is talk of bailing out the US auto industry. I have been in Detroit as recently as a few months ago and have witnessed firsthand just how bad things are there. Things are real bad. There were parts that looked like New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. I watched a special not too long ago where homes, and these were decent homes 2,000 sq ft in decent shape, were going for 10,000. No I did not forget a zero. So yeah Detroit, the Motor City, has major issues, I agree and know that.

However

The big three have been horribly run, produced inefficient gas guzzling pollutants, with subpar quality for some time. And now they want a bailout. I guess since the housing industry got one, the automakers feel they should get one too. Yet I have major qualms about this. First off one of the things I heard during the election was about how important capitalism is to this country. Yet here we are talking about an even bigger bailout than the first (likely $1 trillion)to bailout a mismanaged industry. How is this even remotely capitalistic?

You may or may not remember that in 1997 Bill Clinton got the big three CEO's to sit down and gave them a billion dollars to work together and make more efficient, less polluting gas guzzlers, better technology, hybrid type autos. At the time this was a big deal. In the beginning the companies worked together but then since the money was not held to a mandate, no strings, they stopped working and put out bigger gas guzzlers, does Hummer ring a bell, than before. It was a short term trip that made them quick money but put them behind.

Meanwhile

Because Honda and Toyota were left out they became worried they were going to get left behind. The US government had given money to the the big three and they were supposedly working together. They went right to work. We know the results. If you want top quality, fuel efficiency, cutting edge technology you buy a Honda or Toyota, not American. The US brand is getting killed when they should have been ahead. Working together with the aid of the government should have been enough, but alas short term earnings and little foresight has led to them being 10 years behind when they should have been ahead. It is disheartening to say the least.

Also

You may not know that the US auto industry has fought against every advance in automobile technology. This includes items such as seatbelts and airbags. They did not give in until Congress forced them to make them standard. They have lobbied against better fuel efficiency and less pollution every single time. They have tried to stop every advance in automobile technology. And now they are begging for help because their business practices have failed, their products are sub standard and the competition is killing them because of what they have done to themselves.

I feel bad for the thousands of people this has effected. If you look at the business practices of the US, those on top do quite well, but are more than willing to take the golden parachute and screw everyone doing the real work. We have witnessed the Enron scandal among other notable businesses more than willing to make sure that management is taken care of before taking the fortunes of the masses of their employees. Recently this happened with the banking and financial institutions in this country. Now because of mismanagement an entire city is feeling the effects. Not just any city, one of the largest not on the US, but the world. I do feel bad for these people, they didn't make the decisions that led them to ruin, yet they are the ones effected by it.

However if we are going to claim to be a capitalist society then I don't know how this could pass? It goes against all the principles of capitalism. Private business, little or no government interference, competition, let the market decide, etc... It will reward every bad business practice that they have undertaken, which is certainly anti-capitalist.

Yet

I feel for Detroit, it at one time was the heart of the US economy. I saw the devastation first hand. It is the closest to a disaster area I have ever seen. Millions of people have been effected by the business failings of a few. Should everyone be punished because of the greed and mismanagement of a few?

It is interesting to me that while republicans and conservatives warn of socialism, it has been the businesses who have come running and begging to the government for help.

Finally

I think it only fair to end this rant with a few suggestions. I hate complaining without solutions.

First off I think what the CEO's make is way too much. Give the money back to those doing the real work. Over the past 50 years CEO salaries have increased by incredible amounts. In some companies CEO's make upwards or $30 to $50 million. Money like that only corrupts and leads to these problems. Forgive me if I am un-American by saying that perhaps this practice has been one of the downfalls of the current economy. Greed leads to deceit, lying, cheating, and every other bad business practice.

Secondly Regulation is a necessity. Everything I have read and heard about the current economic crises have stated that deregulation has been the main reason for problems. Zero accountability is never ever a good thing.

If money is given; strings need to be attached. The failings of the big three in 1997 show that when money is given without mandates then little or nothing gets accomplished. Again regulation.

Finally I think less needs to be made of trying to get a quick buck. We need quality as well as consumer/employee/environment friendly businesses. The auto industry can't keep lobbying against advances because it will strain them when in actuality it will be better for everyone. Businesses need to be accountable not just to shareholders but to the general public as well. Profits cannot come at the expense of the public well being. We have to look out for everyone, not just ourselves.

I'm done ranting... for now

BLACKOUT

This year Utah had the great marketing campaign of having black uniforms. Then they decided to have a blackout game where not only the team was in black, but the fans too. Despite the obvious marketing it actually turned out to be really neat. Here are some photos.




Here is my take on the uniforms and blackout idea. I think the uniforms are great. I remember when the Jazz had black uniforms and they were my favorite ones. I like the variety and picking out a big game to wear them at. My only issue with them is that the red on the uniform should match the helmet, or just have black helmets too(use the money from all the black U merchandise you sold) and put a red U on them.
Now that would be awesome. The idea of all fans in black for one night game is a great idea. I think it definitely made the fans more fired up(although the game itself #8 vs #12 made it a heckuva matchup). I like the good vs evil part of it, cause in football you want to be the bad guys. Overall I like the idea and hope they do it every year.

As for the game all I can say is that it is really nice to be ahead the whole game to alleviate anxiety, but there is nothing better than a come from behind victory. This was no different. The way it started I was definitely worried. Then the team calmed down and it was just a bruising game where it was pretty even the rest of the game. Then TCU had the chance to increase on their 10-6 lead but missed two field goals in a row. With just about 3 minutes left I had hope that they would comeback and win. Brian Johnson was great leading the team down the field. He is an okay qb most of the game but seems to really rise to the occasion when the game is on the line. He is now the all time most winning qb in Utah history, so that has to count for something. When they scored I knew they would win and not allow TCU a chance to score.

Whatta year I never thought they would have another year like 04. In actuality this is much different than 04, that year we knew we would win each week. This year we hope for it but I have to admit I never thought we would be 10-0. Hopefully the team can win the last two and we can have another undefeated season. Now that would be awesome.

Being a good parent

I realized I had finally become a good parent when I took the kids out trick or treating. As we approached a home Natalie pointed out a huge pumpkin on the porch. It was painted with a blue BYU. Natalie noticed this and said, "Dad we can't go to this house." I replied, "Why not?" "Because they have a BYU on their pumpkin."
It was then and there that I realized that my kids were choosing the red.

(In actuality I do very little with anti-BYU stuff. I cheer for the U, they get the negative stuff when others, mainly relatives try to get them to go for the Y and tell them Utah stinks. My kids feel bad about it because I cheer for the U and kids tend to cheer for whoever their dad does. This leads to the negativity. I know some of you think I actively say things about the Y, not really, but I will defend the U when others attack--and apparently so will my kids.)

The End of an Era

Just thought I'd remind you all of what we are going to be missing starting Jan 20th

In our lifetime

I am glad so many people voted today no matter who it was for, it is what makes our country great. I am glad we had two candidates that I believe to be good men who want to do their best.

I heard Barack Obama speak four years ago at the Democratic Convention and knew he was going places. His message of unity is one that struck home to me. I have written about my dissatisfaction with politics and partisanship. His message led me to read his books and follow his career. Despite that I didn't think he had much of a chance to win the presidency. The Clinton machine was loaded and nasty and knew that Hillary wouldn't give up without a fight. Yet he was able to win, mainly because of his grass roots organization and message of hope.

I have always liked John McCain. Eight years ago I rallied around him and wanted him to beat Bush. {At times I wonder how different the war would have gone had he won.} Nevertheless I admire McCain and was happy that we had two candidates that I liked. (last election there was zero). In fact I couldn't have been prouder than when I heard his gracious concession speech. I hope all who supported McCain take his words to heart and rally around and support our president-elect. You may not agree with all Obama's politics(then again I don't completely agree with anyone)but the politics of division is what is killing this nation. I appreciate McCain's sentiments, he didn't have to say what he did, but he did anyhow showing his character as well as need that all of us have of coming together.

Obama showed why he is a great leader. He was gracious as well and made sure that everyone knew of his admiration for McCain. He reached out to those who did not vote for him and asked for support as well as promised to listen. I know some may doubt that moment, if so you don't know Obama. After becoming the first black president of the Harvard Law Review and of course being liberal many expected him to reward the other liberals on staff by pushing their agendas. He did not. He was fair and listened to both conservatives and liberals, and as one conservative on staff stated he took far more grief from his own than from conservatives.

Yet somehow this night is more than just politics. Only the ungracious would not be able to recognize the significance of this night. Forget politics for a minute. The very fact that a person of African descent could not only be viable but actually win speaks volumes of how far we have come. For here this country showed progress in the very fact that one who would have been disenfranchised years before now has reached the highest office in the land. Only in America would this be possible. I was moved when I saw the diverse crowd in Chicago with people of all nationalities, ages, and of course gender come together to cheer on the president elect. It is the America I believe in. I hope Obama can be the leader to bring us together.

I will close by letting our president elect finish this post:
"To those who seek peace and security, we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright, tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope."

green river

This year it was just me and Porter who went to green river. The girls had their annual grandaughter day, plus I really didn't want to hear them complain the whole time. Porter had a blast, he had a lot of kids to play with and play he did. I have to admit life is a whole lot funner when you have no worries and just wanna play. I did have fun. The men took a trip to Moab for golf. The course was fine, the play was fun, the company was great. I did nail a 20 foot putt uphill on the 8th that made my day.

We had fun riding the four wheelers. Porter kept wanting to wave to everyone so he would let go of me, which I didn't care for. There was also this glorified golf cart or monster golf cart. It was fun but certainly more herky jerky.


We went back to goblin valley and did a lot of hiking. The kids raced from formation to formation and crowed about finding a new castle or that they were king. I love the fact they can climb on all the stuff. We stayed for longer than last year, which I liked, a place like that you can't get enough of, and you won't soon see anything like it.


Overall the trip flew by which means it was a good trip. I am very glad I was able to go and appreciate all the support and help I received while I was there. Made for a nice birthday weekend.

Biggest Flirt

Kelsey came home from school with a note from the yearbook teacher that they need her for a photo. She was voted in as biggest flirt at her school. Just another accolade in her ever growing list of not so shocking teenage moments. She asked me what I thought, I replied, "I am not sure that it is something to be proud of." She seems to be quite pleased with herself. My only worry is today's biggest flirt will become tomorrow's biggest...
I am liking the teenage years less and less.

West Point Warriors

I have been working now for a just about two months. The haze of the summer and my former job have finally worn off.
Here are my thoughts.
I don't miss the commute one bit. I can get to the school in about 12-15 minutes without speeding. Which is about 3-4 songs on the radio.
I have decided that I needed a change from at-risk to regular kids. It has been refreshing. You can only do the other for so long without becoming cynical and burned out. Luckily I never got to that stage, but I was getting closer to being burned out.
I thought I would miss things more than I really have. I did the first week--before we got students--but as soon as we got them, it was just like teaching.
I enjoy what I do. I am not perfect at it, but I am good with people, which makes up for my teaching deficiencies.
Davis district is a lot different, but more efficient and cozier. The first day I received my user log in and email, a task that can take Granite weeks, even months.
Matheson had a warm family feel to its staff, West Point does too. But the biggest difference is that at Matheson there were only 10 guys on staff and really only a couple my age. At WP there are about 20 guys within 5-10 years of my age. That has been real nice.
WP is more affluent. Case in point-I can assign homework do be done on the internet and I don't worry, save for a few kids who have to go to the library, about it getting done. Within a week of putting up my website I had 250+ hits.
Kids are kids no matter where you are. Teenagers don't change a whole lot--I get less attitude from these kids, but then again, I am not doing at risk.
Sports are done differently. No sports are done at the same time. In other words when boys bball is going, girls is not. I like that a lot better, plus the SBO's and cheerleaders go to every game to give support. I like that too.
At Matheson we had a couple lame shirts we could wear. At WP there are about 10 different styles, meaning there are at least a few I like.
Lunch duty is a breeze, at Matheson I was harrasing kids to clean up all the time, at WP they just do it like they should.
I wouldn't really say one is better than the other, they are both jobs, and can be stressful at times. I miss the relationship I had with the at risk kids, it is something that can't be duplicated. It is easier to teach at WP but I am not sure it is more rewarding. It is less stressful though. In other words it is different, not better or even worse, just different. But I do like the change, Change is good.

Everyone agrees its not a good deal, but we had to do something.

Really! Really?
I haven't been political on here for a while but this statement is maddening. It is everything wrong with our country right now. Settling for less than our best, less than even mediocrity. I have to tell you I am for voting all the bums out in Washington. When Hatch ran against Moss, decades ago, he said Moss had been in too long. Well Hatch has been in twice as long as Moss ever was, but he is not stepping down. Bennett was a main proponent of this garbage. Cannon is only in because he is filthy rich and a republican. At least Matheson and Bishop voted nay. The whole thing stinks of back door deals, calling in favors, bribes, and everything we despise about Congress.

We are talking about bailing out everyone who knowingly and greedily was a part of a loan process that should not have been making the loans they were. I agree that everyone is culpable in this, however, it is up to the banks to loan the money. I hold them more responsible.
Here is my example, lets say you are 16 and have a drivers license and your friend is 15 and he doesn't yet, everyone will admit that he shouldn't get to drive until he has a license yet he pesters you to drive so finally you let him. He drives and ends up crashing your dad's car. Now your dad is gonna be mad at your friend, but he will be more at you, because you let him drive,

you didn't have to let him drive, and you knew he shouldn't be driving.

Now I am not letting people who knowingly got more of a payment than they could handle off, I am just saying that the only way they could is if the banks gave them the money. Everyone is dirty in this and it really makes me mad that we are bailing them out.

"Its not a good deal, but we had to do something."

This goes against everything I believe in. Don't do something unless it is worthwhile doing. I am not saying wait until the perfect deal. I am saying there is no reason to rush and put out a crappy bill that may make things worse than studying the problem and figuring out the best solution for all, and one that does not make those that abused the system get away with it. Look at our auto industry. For decades US cars have not been up to par with brands such as Honda and Toyota. We have made it acceptable in this country to do less than our best. The Japanese have very high standards of quality. It is why there autos are better. This notion of doing less than our best has made Ford, Chevy, and Dodge second class citizens in the auto industry. We need to get back to doing our very best and accepting nothing short of it.

I hear a lot of talk about not allowing illegals to have the same benefits as those that came over legally and did it the right way. This deal isn't a whole lot different, it punishes the law abiding tax payers and helps those that knowingly and greedily made money they shouldn't have been making. It flat out stinks.

My dad always opposed term limits saying that it was good to have someone with experience in Washington and that you could always vote out a bad representative. I would argue that the more 'experience' the more out of touch they are. I think term limits would at least be a step in recovering Washington. Of course they would have to vote it in.

Finally a sad but true tale of the bailout. I know of a realtor that had a client that bid on a home. The bank told them no.

Their reasoning was they figured they could get more from the bailout.

Now if that doesn't wreak of absolute crap I don't know what does. So yeah we get to pay for their greed.

September

I realize that I haven't posted for a while. Amazing how less time one can have when you actually have to work. I never do real well in this month. There are a lot of reasons for this. None greater of course than my dad's birthday and death being right there. Even though I am not consumed by this all the time, it still is there in the back of my mind and it keeps me from posting. Well somewhat I guess, the other times I am busy and don't really have the time I want to devote to this endeavor and put into my posts.

We had a fathers and sons, which was actually a lot of fun. Sure we didn't have tablecloths, but then again no one cared about that either. I will say it was real cold and Porter woke up in the night and complained, I was actually hoping he would, so I told him to get in with me. It wasn't so bad after that. We had a nice program, short and to the point. We discussed the priesthood and all the kids under twelve, which were quite a few, stood up in order of their birthdays. It was the great priesthood chain. In which they were told to remember who was next to them and make sure that all of them stayed strong and got the priesthood. I really liked that concept. Overall great time, Porter was happy to be with just the guys.

Hail to the Victors

When Michigan was put on the schedule we all knew we were going to the game. Of all the years to play there we got a good one. Michigan was changing coaches, offenses, new qb, among other players, whilst the U was pretty much the same as last year. I had a good feeling going into the game.

On a much different note I need to add that the reason this has taken me so long to post about is that the last real guy trip we had was two years ago to UCLA. While posting about that trip I received the news that my dad was rushed to the hospital. That news still haunts me. I had to think through it before I could post about this trip.

We wore our red to the game and went out among the Wolverine fans before to get a feel for them and the whole Michigan football atmosphere. We weren't disappointed. The fans were great to deal with. They came up shook our hands, thanked us for coming, invited us to some jello and pudding shots, and wished us well. I have to say I was very impressed.

Our seats were great. 6th and 7th row. We were surrounded by Michigan fans who welcomed us to the stadium. Two things I really liked at the start. The announcer comes on the PA and says, "The University of Michigan would like to welcome the University of Utah to the Big House with a warm Michigan welcome." Then they booed. I loved it. They then announced the starting lineups both defense and offense and after announcing each player the fans yelled "Who Cares!" Loved that even more. It was a great atmosphere.

One funny thing, all the fans knew the fight song, unlike Utah, so they didn't put the words on the jumbotron. But when it came to the National Anthem they did the post the words on the jumbotron, something you wouldn't have to do at Rice Eccles Stadium. Priorities I guess.

The 108 thousand was the amount of people at the game. Basically if you took the U stadium and the Y stadium and put them together that is what you would get
They had an actual flag ceremony before the game in which they raised the flag and then took it down after the game. They also had a flyover, it was sweet.







The game was great. The ending was tense and I was definitely nervous, but to be honest every point Michigan scored was because of a Utah error. They didn't ever march all the way down the field on their own accord. So in the end when they had to do just that I was confident we would win.

Nothing beat having them play their fight song Hail to the Victors for us and not them at the end. This was the best guy trip ever.

Cedar Point

Leg One of the guy trip was going to Sandusky,Ohio to the world's best amusement park; Cedar Point. Too be honest I hadn't heard a whole lot about this place before we went. I saw some stuff on the travel channel about their rides but that was it. Let's just say this place is the best thrill ride park in the world. I know I can't really make that claim, but it has won for the last ten years, as the world's best park. We had a blast, we ran from ride to ride like we were 14. I will say one perk was we had no kids and no women to slow us down. It was straight up adrenalin and machismo. I have included some video to give you and idea what it is like, some is me while on the rides, others are me filming other rides.

Highlights: Top Thrill Dragster, did it three times. 120 mph in 3.8 sec 500ft. and then shooting up to 420 ft.

Millenium Force--the best roller coaster I have ever been on by far. YOu just have to experience it.

Since it was the first week of school, our longest wait was 10-15 min. Apparently 2.5 hrs is not out of the question on a busy day.

Everyone but me flew in early, I got in at midnight. Agbor told eveyone I wouldn't want to go to Cedar Point. Really it was him. He wanted an ally so we wouldn't have to go. We laughed about this all day. He only did about 6 rides.

Just a cool place. I may never get back so we got our money's worth. Oh yeah it's about the same price as Lagoon. Let's just say the best ride at Lagoon wouldn't even make it in the park

Time for school

Unfortunately my summer of George(Seinfeld reference) is over. Bummer. I played a lot, traveled, hiked, gardened, learned a new sport, and relaxed. I would have to say my batteries are officially recharged. Yea I wish I could play everyday, but I don't think that is what life is all about. I may get preachy with this post, I can feel it coming. Some teachers work in the summer, which I think can be good at least financially, some teach though. Which I am not sure is a wise thing to do. Burnout is a very real thing and even really good teachers can become victims of this deadly disease. Teaching all summer long can add to burnout. Like I mentioned I understand the need to get more cash, but I think it would be better to do work other than teaching. Okay this post is going in places I didn't consider. There was a teacher I worked with who taught night school as a second job. In other words she did her class and then grabbed dinner and did night school. Needless to say she was unhappy. She didn't like her job.

This is the first summer I have really taken off. At Benchmark we worked in the summer. At Matheson I did History Academy twice (5 weeks), ESL(whole summer), and other trainings. Last year I painted lines. There was really nothing for me this year because I switched districts. Next year I will be back to doing trainings. In actuality I played a little too much. Mentally I am not quite ready to go. Physically and emotionally I am fine, but I had a hard time planning last week and normally that isn't a problem. So let's get to this year.

West Point is a beautiful school. It was built six years ago and won the best school design, not in the nation but in the world. Matheson was a great facility but it pales in comparison to West Point. Matheson had a goofy desin in that the front doors lead to the commons area, not the office. You have to travel up the hall a ways to get there, that is if you can figure out which way to go.

Today was the first day of school. In a way it was kinda funny to me how things went. Let me explain. Last week it was meeting after meeting. I didn't think it would end. I got my room ready, had my disclosures ready, was ready to go. That is except mentally. I was missing something but I just couldn't figure out what it was. I woke up early, stopped at Glen Eagle golf course to hit some balls. (This decision was a bad one, I got kinda sweaty and the shirt I wore really showed it--next time I am taking a change of clothes). Still something was missing. Then when the bell rang and kids came walking in, I realized that is what was missing. As soon as they came in I roared into action. I asked names, guessed names, and did my spiel.

I have 180 students or so. I memorized each kid's first and last name before the end of each period save 7th, they got out of school early for an activity. The students were impressed that I could do it. I think it is important to show that I really am interested in each student. When I saw them in the halls and at lunch I pointed and called them by name. It was fun. The little investments like that pay off big time. In the moments when kids forget who they are you can call them on it and they know that you aren't doint it to be a jerk, just to remind them who they are. We'll see tomorrow how well I remember. I do enjoy teaching. It's kinda funny that I couldn't put a finger on what I wasn't ready for and it was the students. DUH! I will say the 15 names I used to have to remember is much easier than the 180 now.

100th of a second

Unless you live in a box you don't know who Michael Phelps is. I am including the record tying 7th gold in the 100m butterfly. If you haven't seen this you have to watch, if you have seen it you know its worth another view. You watch Michael's mom react to his victory.

This is everything I like about competition, sports, the Olympics. It is about working as hard as you can to become the best(in Phelp's case). It is about pushing yourself to new limits and making yourself into something great. I am also including an article about just where this accomplishment fits and why it is so great. It is worth your time to read it.

On a personal note there is mention of a jr. high teacher who told Michael he would never amount to anything. I have thought about this all day. He struggled in school, had adhd, no dad yet it is obvious this kid had focus and determination, he just needed to find his niche. This is a good lesson to remember with school starting, many teachers want every student to be a great student. I disagree, I want my students to become great people, if they become great students, that is nice, but it is not in every kids dna to like school and be successful. Each kid can become a good person and learn important skills like determination, focus, and hard work that will benefit them no matter what they end up doing. As a teacher I want to make the other quote board, the one in which the student reveres you, not despises you. Just a thought.

davis county fair

Every year the girls have a night out with cousins. This year is was at aunt Lisa's home. I am sure they stayed up late, gave makeovers, painted nails and did girly stuff. That meant me and Porter were on our own. I called my friend Matthew and met him and his family at the fair.


We have gone there each year since we have been here (3rd time) each year it has gotten a bit bigger. This year they had a lot of stuff for kids to do, Porter found this water pump that you sent rubber duckies down a gutter by pumping water. He spent a good twenty minutes there and would have spent longer if I would have let him. This kids are and science discovery were much needed additions.

We waited about twenty minutes in line for the pony ride, which lasted about two minutes. Porter thought the wait was worth it, so I guess it was.

Porter was scared of all the animals. Matt's kids touched and petted everything from goats, pigs, cows, to snakes and tarantulas. Porter kept his distance. He did pet most of the animals, not the snakes or spiders, but was reserved and abrupt. It was kind of funny to watch this kid who can tell you all about superheroes and villains yet freak out about a goat.

Apparently we missed the all you can eat ice cream. I have to say that was a major bummer to miss.

Overall the fair is okay. The kiddie items were nice and a good addition, but how many goats and cows do you really need to see? The way the prices were I would eat before you came, even stopping at a place before you got there would be cheaper.