MONTANA DUCKGIRL

Kiss and Make Up Day

2011-08-25T17:14:00.003-04:00

I've been on a little hiatus from blogging...

However, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to

share today's special holiday!!

Kiss and Make Up Day

For all of you (okay, us) who have offended

or been offended by someone

let's take today and make it better.

Whether it's a tiny spat

or a huge mess

today's the day to get over it and

make up.

If the person lives far a way a good kiss

substitute are flowers, phone calls

even emails and text messages work.

If you do end up stopping a long standing feud

or receiving a gushingly sweet "I'm sorry!"

post your story in the comments!

Graduation and Family Time!!

2011-06-04T20:50:00.003-04:00

Though I finished school in December I walked

for graduation in May.

Graduation itself was, well, dull and boring.

But, I'd do it a hundred times over again

if it meant my family would come to visit me again!

We visited all sorts of places as you'll see below.

This picture requires some explanation, as you may have noticed

my father seems to be losing his teeth.

Rightly so, he's got some false ones in while his upper

jaw heals before he gets his permanent ones put it.

They are a bit loose and if he smiles too big

or opens his mouth too wide they sometimes.... slip.

Dad decided we needed a shot with his classy teeth falling out.

I laughed sooooo much while my parents and my brother

were around. It sure felt nice to have them there!!

Mom, Dad, Rich on a Cape Cod beach - it was

incredibly foggy. So dense that

as you walked through it you could feel

the droplets forming on you.

Here I am all decked out at graduation.

This one is for Jessica, we are in Mount Auburn Cemetery

on top of the Washington tower (aka. Rapunzel's Tower).

My favorite shot. All of us aboard the Mayflower II.

When can they come back for another visit!!??

Finished!!!!!!! My bedspread quilt is done!!!

2011-04-05T13:26:00.005-04:00

It's been a year since I first started this project

and now it's done!

It feels soooooo good to sleep under it.

It's the perfect weight and keeps me warm

without being too hot!

I've always loved sleeping

but now

it's harder then ever to get out of bed.

Here's the backside of my quilt

(it could be the front too)!

Here's the front side already in use on my bed!

Here's a close up of the binding - yes I did it by hand!

Thanks to my fabulous quilting instructor, Nancy!

Sad or not sad that is the question...

2011-03-05T00:15:00.004-05:00

Dear Readers,

One of my conscientious readers was

appalled at the "waste of latex and water"

shown in the video of "You Make Me Smile",

which I posted a day or two ago.

Do you agree with this anonymous sir or madame?

(Feel free to read his or her comment beneath the last post.)

Is it a "waste-fest" as this person claimed? Or is it making

creative use of resources to provide

joy and entertainment with little

harm to anyone?

Thoughts, please.

Kyle Andrews "You Always Make Me Smile" Official Video

2011-03-02T13:07:00.001-05:00

Let's get ready for Spring!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(GO BYU!!!)

Christmas & the New Year

2011-01-16T20:46:00.004-05:00

It was so nice to be home in MT.

This is one of my favorite views of Missoula.

One of my resolutions for this year:

Take more pictures of people I love.

I didn't get very many during the break.

Shame on me.

Here's one of my mom holding a table runner I made.

The pattern said it was a 10-minute table runner.

Turned out to be more like a 40-minute table runner,

but still not bad.

Finished.

2010-12-17T09:19:00.002-05:00

HALLELUJAH!!!!

I am done with my master's program.

Now, off to sleep for a few days....

Gift Idea: King Singers

2010-12-14T22:45:00.001-05:00

This one is a gift idea in memory of Nathan who sang this for the Mr. 91st ward pageant!! Anyone remember that splendid event :-)?

On a serious note - these guys are a-mazing! If you want to have some great Christmas or anytime music look for the King Singers on iTunes - or if you're lucky maybe they'll be coming to visit a city near you!!

A gift appropriate for Sunday

2010-12-12T19:03:00.003-05:00

Forgiveness.

One word that takes no money,

but,

it requires letting go of being right,

it requires letting go of being angry,

it requires expecting nothing in return.

It requires a lot of effort,

including prayer,

to a very willing Heavenly Father.

The gift of

forgiveness

is really a gift to three.

You.

The one you forgive.

Your Heavenly Father.

"Forgiveness is the economy of the heart...

forgiveness saves the expense of anger,

the cost of hatred,

the waste of spirits."

Hannah More

"He that cannot forgive others

breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself;

for every man has need to be forgiven."
Thomas Fuller

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/h/hannahmore129124.html#ixzz17whzSqIZ

For the Gents in your life...the Ladies as well

2010-12-11T15:29:00.005-05:00

Looking for a nifty gift for your mister?

Check out the spiffy tie-tacks from Emersonmade.com.

They are handmade, 100% wool and linen.

Check out the gorgeous flowers for the Misses as well.

Best Socks in the World goes too.....

2010-12-09T08:37:00.007-05:00

Today's gift idea is....

SmartWool Socks.

Don't be fooled by any other name.

Expensive? Yes.

Worth it? Most definitely.

Even if your feet sweat a lot

they won't get cold.

They won't get too hot either.

Your feet stay the "just right temperature"

in these beauties.

They are for all seasons.

You can get them for men/women/children/pets

(okay, maybe not pets)

and they come in all colors, styles, lengths and thicknesses.

I have running socks, skiing socks, ankle socks,

mid calf socks, socks for slacks, and socks for jeans.

Truly, once you go for SmartWool

you will never want anything else.

Too bad they don't make SmartWool nylons...

I *heart* SmartWool socks.

Where you can buy them:

www.amazon.com

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/

(they are on sale here! type SmartWool into the search box)

http://www.rei.com/

http://www.artisansocks.com/smartwool-socks/

(great!! selection here)

Things and 1 gift idea

2010-12-08T12:47:00.003-05:00

Sad news first...

I did not get the library job I applied for in Missoula.

Sad or relieved...

I think I feel both.

Next,

my gift giving lists are coming few and far between

thanks to homework

(only 1 week left of school!!!

then I will be a Master....of Libraries).

So,

instead I am gong to try and post one gift idea daily.

Here's number one....

Michael Buble - Crazy Love CD

FAN-TASTIC!!

His voice could melt steel let alone butter.

It's clean, fun, romantic, and smooth!

(Some friends and I at his concert a few weeks back)

Kitchen Goodness

2010-11-18T22:31:00.018-05:00

A compilation of some of my favorite cooking and eating related things. Enjoy!!

(again, add your own suggestions in the comments block - add a link if you can find one)

Penzey Spices - Fantastic gifts for the cooks in your life (and perhaps a little treat for yourself as well). Great for standard spices for baking and cooking but also has an extensive collection of Indian spices.

Sunny Paris - Absolutely fantastic on scrambled eggs - wow! Works great sprinkled on roasted vegetables or in sauces too. You can't go wrong!!
Pure Vanilla - This is real vanilla in its finest form. For those recipes that really need a quality shot of vanilla.
Spice Gift Packs - 4-packs and 8-packs of various types of spices for any occasion and style of cooking.

Hot Chocolate

Allegro Brand Indian Spice -available at Whole Foods Market
Burdick's Hot Chocolate - The *Best* hot chocolate in the world - expensive, but if you love hot chocolate - utterly worth the price! Dark is incredibly strong - not for the faint of palate! White is sweet and dreamy! Milk - it's like a melted cup of milk chocolate.
Godiva Hot Chocolate - This one wins second place for delectable hot chocolate! I prefer the dark - it's got depth without being bitter.
Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe - From Whole Foods Market. I love Mexican Hot Chocolate!

Candy Cane Joe-Joes - This is heavenly Christmas flavor wrapped in a cookie - and it only appears at Christmas. Crushed candy canes folded into creamy frosting layered between two chocolate cookies! If you like Oreo's you will love these so much more!

Almond Roca - Toffy nutty chocolatey goodness wrapped in a lovely golden wrapper!

Yummy Cheese - Sugarbush Farms. Incredible cheese made in VT.

Maple Syrup - real stuff! - Sugarbush Farms. Read up on the Maple Syrup grades - the syrup gets darker as the season continues.

Lake Champlain Chocolate Carmels - Truly some of the best chocolates I've ever tasted.

WilliamsSonoma - Silicone spatula - The silicone spatula is one of the best all purpose kitchen tools. It works as a stirring tool, rubber scraper, it's dishwasher safe, and delightful to use!

WilliamsSonoma - Whisk - I love this whisk!! It doesn't rust, the tines stay put and it feels great in your hand. I suggest a little gift set of whisk, spatula and hot chocolate or dish towels.

Best Kitchen Drying Towels - I've got one of these fantastic towels. They suck up the water quickly and dry your dishes in no time flat!

Mini Colander - A fantastic mini colander perfect for a single serving of washed fruits and veggies!

Flirty Aprons - A friend has one of these delightfully cute aprons. Want to add a little fifties flare to your kitchen - tie one of these on for size!

Red Plate Special - A perfect gift for anyone who deserves to feel special on any day!

America's Test Kitchen Website - Are you a fan?? If not - see what the fuss is about click here and watch an episode or two!

America's Test Kitchen Cookbook - I *LOVE* this cookbook. I've used it to bake cookies, breads, salads, pie crusts, meats.... etc. You can't go wrong with this fail-safe book. Better than any other all purpose cookbook!

Mexican and Yucatecan Recipes - My mom and I took a cooking class from the man who runs Los Dos in Merida, Mexico. His recipes are fantastic if you enjoy Mexican food.

Games Games Games

2010-11-18T14:26:00.006-05:00

Well here it is, the start of my gift ideas. Check back every few days for some new ones.

And definitely, most definitely, if you have a favorite

game share it along with why in the comments!

(some of my favorite games)

I've arranged them by ages-ish (take that with a grain of salt)

and I've included where you can purchase said games!

Enjoy and let the games begin!!!

Young-uns and family:

Apples to Apples - A classic game that lets each person decide what's the silliest, slimiest, scariest, grossest, stupidest, prettiest, happiest, well you get the idea. Can be purchased at: Target, WalMart, Amazon.com.
Guess Who? - This is a great one for little ones who are learning how to notice categories and groups, as well as older ones who want to ask the question that will let them put down the most people. Can be purchased at: Target, WalMart, Amazon.com.

Medium-size and Family:

Mastermind - Love playing this with kids. A two person game where one player creates a pattern of four with 6 different colored pegs. The other person has to guess the pattern by making the pattern herself. Very much a thinking game - I've played it with 9 year olds quite successfully. It's fun! Can be purchased at: Target, WalMart, Amazon.com.
Scotland Yard - A fantastic game that pits players against the elusive Mr. X. Players roam around London using, taxi's, trains, and walking to capture Mr. X. A fantastic gamily game. Can be purchased at: Target, Amazon.com

Full-Grown and Family:

Othello - A really clever take on Tic-Tac-Toe but infinitely more fun and tricky to play. Can be purchased at: Amazon.com
Settlers of Catan - One of my favorites - a strategy building game. Your goal is to create the longest road and link towns together. I salute Celeste and Matt who first introduced me to this game. Whenever I play it I picture them!! Can be purchased at: Target, Amazon.com
The Big Idea - It's a hilarious game - you'll have to read the website description to get the full effect (please pardon the company name, but I do laugh every time I think of how their executives introduce themselves at trade shows). They also have a "where to find a place that sells this game in your area" button - use it and enjoy! There are even free downloadable games. Have a browse through their website!
Dominoes - You can't go wrong with Dominoes - so many ways to play them. Click here to learn how to play.

Two fantastic puzzle and game manufacturers are Pressman Toys and Ravensburger (click on either name and it will take you to their site where you can find oodles and gobs of new and wonderful games) look for them in your local puzzles and games store. If you don't have a local shop well, Target and the Internet are the next best thing!!

Sick Sick Sick

2010-11-16T16:11:00.000-05:00

Today I am sick. Not a throw up sick. Not a temperature sick. But a good old chest cold sick. Chest colds and I go waaaaaaaay back. I always had chest colds and sinus infections as a kid. Thankfully, chest cold and sinus infection have chosen other targets as I've gotten older.

There!!! There it is, a good reason for getting older!!!!!

I remember long hot showers, chicken noodle soup, lots and lots of apple juice, naps and reading in bed as the way I got over colds as a kid (well, and the occasional trip to the Doctor for a dose of Antibiotics). Strangely enough, that's still how I get over colds today.

And you - how do you get over colds??

Good good life

2010-11-05T12:26:00.005-04:00

Random tidbits...

1. Parents love you more and know you better

than anyone else. Take your troubles to them.

The advice they give has your best interest at heart.

2. I get to be home in beautiful Montana for 2 whole weeks

at Christmas and New Year's!! I don't know

if words exist to express how excited I feel.

3. I will be finished with school in 6 weeks

and, supposedly,

I will be a "Master" in school libraries!!!!

Wahooooooooooooo!

Now to find a job....

Stay tuned I am going to post my

First Annual Christmas List:

A guide for every age (and budget)

in a few....

October and Car Accidents

2010-10-25T21:17:00.006-04:00

I'm not quite sure what it is about Octobers and cars

(for me at least).

Yesterday I was hit on my way to church.

Last year, in October, I was hit in my rental car.

The year before that, October again -maybe early November,

my brakes went south and had to be replaced.

What is it about cars and October??

Plus side:

I gave the guy who hit me

a pass along card and invited him to church,

I wasn't hurt at all,

though my car is ugly

it is completely useable!

So many silver linings!!

Head above water....barely

2010-10-07T22:59:00.002-04:00

Gasp-air-please-gasp....

That is how I feel at the moment.

I am working.

I am student teaching in a high school.

I drive 45 minutes one way to student teach.

I have a class on campus once a week (my last one !!!!!).

In another week I start another student teaching experience in elementary and finish the high school.

I left at 6:45 am today. I returned home at 10 pm.

Only until December.

Hallelujah.

2010-10-01T07:26:00.002-04:00

FHE and Parenthood

2010-09-27T22:25:00.003-04:00

Tonight we had a fantastic FHE lesson.

Not the royal we, mind you, it was an actual group of single

adults who meet together every week and

partake of a lesson, discussion, friendship,

and of course, food.

The best part of tonight was feeling the spirit.

It was this little constant hum of warmth in my heart

as we listened to the teacher and then as we

listened to each other.

I love when lessons turn out so well!!

The topic was:

being mothers and fathers

(for the most part that was the topic, anyway).

Ironic, considering we're all individuals

who are neither married nor have children of our own.

Oh, but how lovely to learn that

eternally,

we are always mothers and fathers.

What a gift we have as children of God to be parents

and teach children -

our own

or our siblings

or children from church

or our friends children.

Click here to learn more about what I mean.

Ahhh, September has arrived!

2010-09-10T13:09:00.003-04:00

September has arrived!

And with it...

*Student Teaching*

*Last Semester of Graduate School*

*Cooler air*

*Apples and apple picking*

*a new baby boy for the Schoenfeld Family (congratulations!!)*

*The wearing of socks (I can't decide if this is a plus or minus)*

*Back to school sales at Office Supply Stores*

This is a photo to remind me of all that is good about summer.

Ice Cream, t-shirts, sunshine, girl's camp, hiking, and fun!

(This was taken on our way back from our 4th year hike

at Girl's Camp-it was a toughie so we thought we all deserved

a little ice cream :-)

Happy Back to School Everyone!

I'm quilting, I'm quilting (say it like the Wicked Witch who is melting in the Wizard of Oz)...

2010-08-12T11:33:00.005-04:00

For years, I have harbored a secret love.

Not many knew.

Finally, I succumbed...

Jo-Ann's had an awesome sale one day

on the fabric of my dreams

50% off plus a 10% off coupon!!!

Does it get any better????

No.

Anyway, I decided to make a new bedspread for myself.

The first picture is the the top of my new bedspread

(and is made from "the fabric of my dreams").

The second picture is the back of my new bedspread.

I cut 7 or 8 different fabrics

into 2.5" by 10" strips and sewed them together.

TOP of my soon to be new bedspread

BACK of my soon to be new bedspread.

When it's all sewn together,

I'm going to take the top, the back, and the batting

to a woman who will machine quilt it.

Yay for long arm quilting!

Boo, for the expense!

Oh well, it will be worth it.

Then I get to bind it by hand!!

Don't worry,

I'll add more photos when it's done.

Forgiveness: My Burden Was Made Light

2010-08-11T15:09:00.000-04:00

Oooh La-La, Lovely Legs...

2010-08-02T10:27:00.004-04:00

Do you know what Kankles are?

I had them.

Did you notice I said "had"!

Kankles are when your ankles run into your calves.

My sister tells me it is from lack of exercise.

I also have other lumpy parts

but I won't give them

special names.

That's just gross.

So, instead

I will

share what I am doing to get rid of Kankles and lumpy parts.

Interval Training

Ohhh - I hate running. But this only has a little bit.

I like how I feel at the end.

Eat within 30 minutes of finishing your exercise

and make sure

make doubly sure

you eat protein each meal.

The 20-Minute Workout

I love, love this workout.

It really is 20 minutes.

You will feel your muscles burn

(in a good way).

It doesn't require any special equipment

(instead of 5 lb. weights I use a full water bottle).

I still have a few lumpy parts.

But, my kankles are disappearing.

Yay!

I believe in Christ

2010-07-20T22:30:00.004-04:00

I've had a lot of things on my mind lately.

The past, the present, the future...

you know, small things like that.

Tonight, as I worked on a quilt that will someday

be my new bedspread,

I decided to listen to a talk by Richard G. Scott.

He is one of 12 apostles of the

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Perhaps most importantly,

he's a special witness of Jesus Christ.

Listening to him share his own testimony of Christ

and of the blessing of repentance and forgiveness

I was reminded that I know the truth of those things too.

I know that Jesus Christ lives.

I know we have a Heavenly Father and that he loves you and me.

He loves the very worst sinner as much

as the new born child.

I learned that principle several years back -

that no matter what we do -

he loves us tremendously.

He always will.

That it is never too late to repent.

We have never done anything too wrong

that we can't be forgiven.

That is the blessing of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

His perfect sacrifice for each of us.

He did it, so we could repent.

So we could be forgiven.

So we could become clean again.

I will forever be in his debt.

It is His love I seek to feel

and His love I hope to emulate.

If you would like to listen

to Elder Richard G. Scott's talk

please click the link below.

Listen to Richard G. Scott's talk on Jesus Christ

If you wish to read it

please, click the following link.

Read Richard G. Scott's talk on Jesus Christ

It's my birthday!!!!! (tomorrow)

2010-06-18T11:24:00.002-04:00

Yay for birthdays and surviving another year.

That's what a birthday is... a celebration of living another year!!!

So, here's to more birthdays and more celebrations!!!

Visitors

2010-06-16T11:03:00.003-04:00

Yay for visitors!! Among the many wonderful things

about living in Boston,

is that soooo many people want to come visit!

Including one of my old kindergarten students and her mom

(she's getting ready to enter 5th grade now!!).

We had a blast!!!!

We......

went to a Red Sox game (they won!!).....

we went to the beach (notice the hats).....

again, notice the hats. They purchased these beauties in

the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport on their way here and

thought it would be fun to have matching hats.

Oh, and so that I would be sure to notice them

as I picked them up from the airport.

We had a remarkable number of people comment on them

as we went to the beach, museums, and tourist shops.

Big Bonus with hats like these:

when you scan the crowd searching for each other

all you have to look for is a sparkly hat!

Another day at the beach. I tried waxing eloquent with my camera

I have an unbelievable number of sand, rock, and ocean shots. This is one of them....

And lastly, my pretty bruise that I got from tripping and falling

onto something on the Mayflower II.

It matches my skirt, at least.

I was quite taken with the colors of my pretty not-so-little

bruise and was a little sad to see it fade away!

A Father Indeed

2010-06-02T23:49:00.000-04:00

A wonderful man and the type of man every woman hopes to find.

Even in the city...

2010-05-27T11:35:00.003-04:00

I love birds, ducks especially, but I'm not too particular.

The other day I was leaving the Boston Temple

heading for Trader Joe's and Whole Foods market.

I saw a bunch of folks with cameras staring up at a building.

Naturally, I did the same thing.

I saw this:

I was thrilled to see a wild bird's next in the middle of busy Cambridge, MA.

I'm not sure what kind of birds they are

but I'm fairly sure they're not the

typical Boston birds: Canada geese, pigeons, crows, robins, etc.

Hawks, maybe.

What a precarious looking ledge.

It doesn't seem to be bothering them any....

Boston Pops

2010-05-20T16:24:00.005-04:00

I had a band teacher in high school who was ...

well, simply put - awesome!!

Every spring we played a pops concert complete

with tables on the gym floor and kids serving food and soda.

We played the funniest and most entertaining things.

One year he dressed up in a powder blue tuxedo to conduct

(complete with a ruffled shirt).

All of this was brought back to my mind

after my recent attendance at a Boston Pops Concert.

It was a stunning performance.

It was a tribute to America and patriotism.

They had the flag from the Twin Towers in NY.

It's tattered edges and insides mended with american flags

from other towns across America who also faced disasters.

They had rescue workers (including a rescue dog!!)

who had helped rescue

and recover at ground Zero.

Do you remember singing

"This Land is Your Land, This Land is My Land"

in elementary school?

Arlo Guthrie, the son of Woody Guthrie, who wrote the song,

came and performed.

He sang his own music

as well as that famous song of his father's.

He told a lot of jokes.

He was very funny.

The world premier orchestral piece written about the

3 Kennedy brothers Bobby, Ted, and Jack

was performed and narrated by 4 amazing actors:

Cherry Jones, Robert DeNiro, Ed Harris, and Morgan Freeman.

The music was powerful,

the words were taken from speeches

given by each of the three brothers,

and the photos accompanying it all provided

a true view into history.

All in all, an amazing night.

And - the best part -

getting $15 tickets to the "cheap seats".

I may not have had the best view,

but it was good enough for me!

As my mom said,

it doesn't matter if you can see or not,

as long as you can hear!

Fireflies - Glow in the Darkness

2010-04-26T12:16:00.000-04:00

Memories

2010-04-21T20:50:00.005-04:00

I went to the

Eric Carl Museum of Picture Book Art

on Saturday with some friends

to see my favorite

storyteller:

Jay O'Callahan

He turned one of his stories

into a picture book.

"Raspberries" - it's great

(but his original version is even better!!)

The illustrator is the great grandson

of Grandma Moses.

I loved the museum and seeing my friends

and meeting Mr. O'Callahan.

This morning I woke up missing someone.

Someone I likely won't see or talk to again.

I'm supposed to move on and forget.

But, sometimes

I just don't want to.

You asked for it....

2010-03-23T22:40:00.004-04:00

Sorry for the close up of my derrier but you can see the flying ducks the best at this vantage point!!

Don't neglect to notice that I have on my duck wellys (i.e. duck rubber boots).

And of course what post would be complete without a full size photo of yours truly in the duck pants. Here are a few of the responses from friends:

"I can't let you go shopping by yourself."

"You're not six anymore."

"I think you'd be perfect for that show 'What Not to Wear.'"

Blogs, blogs, blogs!!

2010-03-18T13:46:00.004-04:00

If you are interested in the rantings and ravings of a future librarian you can also read my library focused blog at: http://gslis.simmons.edu/blogs/admissions/author/karenbingham/

It's a group of blogs for the admissions at Simmons College - my current and soon to be former (yay for graduation!!!) university.

The sun is shining - hallelujah!

I'm a big girl now!!!

2010-03-14T20:41:00.003-04:00

A few exciting things this weekend....

I have signed all the paperwork and will soon be living in my own apartment - no, I won't own it, but I will be living there alone. It's a studio - but it's absolutely darling AND I get to have a duck bathroom again!!! Ahhh, the simple joys of life..... and speaking of ducks and simple joys in life....
I went shopping at L.L. Bean on Saturday to celebrate finding the perfect little apartment. I wandered finally making it to the sale section and learned that on top of the already discounted goodies there was an additional 30% off all markdowns (SWEET!!). And then, to my great joy and amazement, I found a pair of reddish/orangish corduroy pants with little mallard ducks embroidered all over them. That gem of a find was only made more complete by the addition of some sale priced duck embroidered flip flops. Did I purchase them? What do you think.

When I told my good friend A.G. over the phone what I'd purchased I heard her gasp - and then say, "I can't let you go shopping by yourself again."

Who could pass up pants like those??

Helping those in Haiti

2010-01-14T00:08:00.003-05:00

Help those in Haiti receive fresh water and basic necessities. Donate now at LDS Philanthropies 100% of your donation goes to those who most need it. Donate what you can - I just did.

Karen's Top Ten Things to Know About Visiting the UK

2009-12-10T14:49:00.003-05:00

10. It DOES rain a lot there (bring an umbrella, hat, scarf and gloves).

9. Scotland is beautiful and the accents are the best

- be careful after a few minutes you will start

talking like a Scott!

8. Castles are big, and cold, and I would LOVE to

have a fire-place as big as some of the

ones I saw (I swear, one of them is at least as big as my room

- which isn't that difficult, actually...)

This is looking out the exit/entrance at the Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland

(did you know that it's pronounced Edinburough??)

7. Wool and cashmere are cheap-er in Scotland - but not that cheap.

6. There are a lot of sheep in Northern England and Scotland.

John Knox's house. I love the inscription over the door way, it says:

Love God above all and your neighbor as yourself.

A view of the old part of Edinburgh, including a view of the castle from atop

Arthur's Seat - an extinct volcano. Beautiful day.

A view of Arthur's Seat from the castle, hmm, very familiar looking...

5. I LOVE british showers -

you never run out of hot water, it heats it as it comes out.

4. I love Tesco

(it's like a super grocery store mixed with a big department store -

yes, classier than Walmart.)

3. It's much more fun to visit when you know someone who lives there,

you get to meet people and see the little differences

in the way people live. It's great.

2. They do have roasted chestnut vendors on the street

(okay so maybe that was just for the Christmas street fayre,

but it was cool, and I did buy some... they grew on me).

1. I got to hear old church bells ringing noisily several times

and it was beautiful, I got to go to Evensong at the Yorkminster Abbey

and hear a men's acapella group sing the liturgy (I think that's what it's called),

the beauty of the bells and the singing touched my heart and

it was beautiful.

This is the Preston, England temple.

It was lovely to be able to go there and enjoy the peace inside.

Fallish Things

2009-10-28T16:26:00.005-04:00

1. The past few mornings I've

awakened to this....

Like liquid gold pouring through my window.

2. J.P. Licks has El Diablo ice cream

- chocolate ice cream with cinnamon

and cayenne pepper.

Just when you expect the smooth

velvety coating of

cold ice cream

BAM!

Burned tongue

and singed nose hairs.

I highly recommend it.

3. I got hit by an ice cream truck

while driving my rental car in DC.

No joke.

And here she is Ladies and Gentleman.... Shannon Hale.

2009-10-05T13:57:00.003-04:00

Well, it was a fine fine Fall day in Wellesley, MA made even better by a visit from world famous author Shannon Hale. What a delight to meet her and hear her speak. She is as down to earth as I'd hoped she'd be (after all she did go to grad school at the U of M - Missoula has a way of bringing out the normalcy in people - either that or driving them over the edge... ). Anywho, a friend and I went to the Wellesley Free Library to see Shannon Hale in support of the Wellesley Booksmith (a fantastic independent bookseller - Support your Local Bookstore!!!!!!). We were lucky enough to get our books signed and to get our pictures taken with her (yes, she is petting our hair - don't worry we gave her permission). Thanks Shannon for coming to Wellesley and for writing such wonderful stories! Bless your heart and the hands you type with.

If you are interested in learning more about Shannon Hale - visit her website at: http://www.squeetus.com/stage/main.html

Enjoy!!

Skydiving (aka. My New Passion)

2009-09-07T16:06:00.006-04:00

I went Skydiving!!!!

My favorite night dreams are those

when I am flying.

Today my dreams became reality.

It felt just like I thought it would feel.

Dreams DO come true :-)

My bishop - the instigator of the whole thing!

THANK YOU BISHOP HAFEN!

Me in the plane against the door we would soon jump out.

Some of the other jumpers and instructors

(we went tandem).

The girls before getting into the plane!

I want to get certified and go as often as I can!!!!!

Anyone want to join me?

Washington, DC Take 3

2009-08-13T13:14:00.003-04:00

And finally...

Three "monuments here"-

1. WW2 water monument w/each of the 50 states represented,

2. Reflection pool

3. Lincoln Memorial in far background

(oh, and the cool policeman on horseback)

GORGEOUS DAY in Washington DC.

I'm on the Lincoln Memorial looking out over

the reflection pool,

Washington Monument,

the National Mall,

and The Capital Building in the way way back.

Part of the reason for my going to DC

was to go on a blind date set up by one of my friends.

We ended up going to Mt. Vernon

(where George Washington lived)

for part of our date and I remembered

that when I was 12 I had come here

and taken a picture of this exact tree.

So, here it is folks.... the same tree 20 years later.

(Wish I had the other picture w/me but it's in MT.)

Oh look, it's Montana.

And a really cute girl standing beneath it!

No questions as to why I took this, right?

They were walking out of the reflection pool

in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

Too cute. Couldn't resist.

Washington, DC Take 2

2009-08-13T13:09:00.004-04:00

A great exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of American History

on Lincoln.

His top hat.

One of my favorite presidents.

I had to take a photo op.

This is one of my better shots of

me and the Washington Monument.

Aiming the camera by myself at myself

and a tall background

obelisk - not one of my strong suits.

Garden at the National Cathedral!

An "artistic" shot of the National Cathedral.

A Few More Happenings...

2009-08-13T12:51:00.003-04:00

Washington, DC: Take 1

A saying at the end of the main exhibit at the Holocaust Memorial.

Something to remember now and always.

I went to a fantastic and chilling exhibit on

Nazi Propaganda at the Holocaust Memorial.

What propaganda are we hearing?

Julia Child's pots and pans on exhibit at the Smithsonian - amazing number of pans.

They reconstructed her kitchen with

the furniture and etc. from her actual kitchen.

Very homey and warm.

We can all cook delightfully in even the most

modest of spaces.

The kitchen IS the heart of the home.

A Few Happenings...

2009-08-13T12:35:00.005-04:00

First Red Sox Game.... We sat next to the visiting team's bull pen.

Thanks for an awesome birthday gift Madrians!

When I first got into the stadium...

This is "The Green Monstah"

- we're on a first name basis.

Inside Fenway Pahk.

Sitting next to the Orioles Bull Pen

(they gave us a stick of gum... lucky me!!)

What it looks like pre-game outside the stadium.

Very funny Clips!!

2009-07-24T15:28:00.003-04:00

Howdy Friends. Happy Summer - or Happy Rainy season depending on where you live. Here in Boston we've had four seasons, Fall, Winter, Spring, and Rain. We think there is a season called Summer out there somewhere but it might just be a rumor, we don't know!

I've been taking two 6 week classes for school simultaneously and WOW has it been a lot of work. Luckily it's been really interesting and fun. I've joined the world of Twitter (mtduckgirl) if you want to follow me or share your tweets with me, and discovered a new world of fun links. I want to share them with you.

Dancing Wedding Intro (soooooo cool, I think I would like to do this, but I have a hunch it just wouldn't work with a temple wedding....)

This is a Mashup (I want to try this with my students some day) none of these YouTube videos went together originally. Talk about super cool organizational skills.

What Librarians do in their free time. I want to be a part of something as inspiring as this :-) Seriously funny. They actually have cart competitions at ALA (American Library Association) conference.

Enjoy!

Church Fire at Cambridge MA LDS Church

2009-05-17T18:24:00.009-04:00

Hmm, how does one start a blog about a fire that destroys your church building. Well, I guess that's as good a way as any. This morning was Stake Conference for the New England area and many areas on the East coast. It was a broadcast from Salt Lake City. It started at 10 a.m. Around 10:45 a.m. the fire alarm went off. We were all hesitant to get out, thinking it was merely a false alarm or drill. After all it was right in the middle of someone's talk. However, we all filed outside, and there noticed the smoke billowing out of the roof vent above the chapel. The fire department was called, and by the time they arrived (within minutes) more smoke was spewing forth from vents. The firemen positioned their trucks and ladders climbed up on the roof, cut a hole and wow! then the flames appeared. So, the fireman got off the roof, and things started rolling. Flames shot out of the attic space above the chapel and soon engulfed most of the roof above that area. I was astounded as were all who just minutes before were sitting in the building. The roof caved in and through the big and beautiful round window in the back of the chapel you could see the orange flames everywhere inside. It was a surreal experience.

This building also housed the Institute of Religion for the Boston area and CES offices for most of New England. Luckily, the fire was doused before it reached the library of the Institute. The firemen, bless each of them, pulled out the books and transported them on gurneys outside. The good people of the Society of Friends (of the Quaker religion) offered the use of their building to house the books. Their building is directly across the way from our church. A long line of people from the congregation was quickly organized and the books, some of them wet and sooty but none burned, was passed from one person to the next across the park, street, and down into the Society of Friends basement. Along with several other librarians and book preservationists I spent the next few hours going through books and categorizing them into dry, sort of wet, and wow- really wet. There were even some paintings and prints from inside that were saved.

It was sad to see the beautiful and sentimental building go up in flames. However, as with any tragedy the Lord provides miracles - many miracles. The miracles have already started... no one was injured in the fire, the books - thousands of books , were saved, and people of various faiths from around Cambridge came together to lend support and comfort.

For photos of the fire see the following:

Article of fire @ Boston.com

A small photo of me in this one

You tube video (5 seconds of me at the end) with fire chief describing what happened

Lots of Photos

Best Blender EV_ER!!!

2009-05-03T20:50:00.002-04:00

Hey Folks, you all know I went to BYU and I think it is a great school.
I can now prove with certainty that BYU comes up with some genius thinkers!!
Here's one of them.
This man invented a blender that could probably blend your blender into dust!
I'm actually serious, and I wonder if he's tried it?
He's tried to blend just about everything else (and been successful) including:
iphone, glow sticks, a rubics cube, bic lighters (that is a fun one to watch),
and so many more things.
Watch one of the clips. I promise, once you watch one
you won't want to stop AND you will want to check out
the blendtec.com website to see how you can get one of your own.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qg1ckCkm8YI

(No, I am not a spokesperson,
I just think this is the coolest thingsince sliced bread!!)

Visitor

2009-04-14T10:44:00.008-04:00

I got a call a few weeks back from a friend/mission companion

who had a free ticket that had to be used by April 16. She wanted to know

if maybe, just maybe

she could come visit me in Boston.

"MAYBE!!!!??? Heck yes you can!! Come on down, my friend!!!"

So, I might have been a little more calm on the phone,

but it was essentially the same sentiment.

We had a blast.

I played tour guide, learning a little along the way, making new friends

and of course we ate plenty of good food.

WARNING: if you come to visit me -

whether I am here, there, or somewhere else,

it will ALWAYS, ALWAYS include good food.

Food is part of what makes a culture.

So, prepare yourself to eat and enjoy!

Amy was perfect company, but I don't know what happened...

while she was here all of my pent up obnoxiousness

came bursting out in fits of silly humor.

Poor thing, she put up with me, though.

Bless her heart!

Enjoy the photos!!

Best clam chowder is @ Periwinkles (at least in Essex, MA)!

Best place for brunch in Jamaica Plain - Center Street Cafe.

When they say "loads of fresh fruit" they mean it!

(That's french toast underneath the fruit,

in case you were wondering:-)

Awww, look how cute we are!!

Public Gardens - downtown Boston.

View from the top of the Bunker Hill monument!!

294 steps up!

This fish was so persuasive.... I couldn't say no.

Coming home...

2009-04-04T23:56:00.001-04:00

Two weeks from today I fly back to Missoula. This will be a busy trip as I intend on visiting friends in both Billings, MT and Spokane, WA. Lots of driving but it will be well worth it!! Those of you who will be around I sure I hope I get to see you!!

Why I go to the Temple

2009-03-11T22:25:00.004-04:00

There has been some interesting chatter about a program that will portray a ceremony from the temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. In response to that the church has issued a message about why its members attend the temple. I share the link with you here, because it explains so beautifully why I go to the temple on a regular basis. I am so grateful for the opportunity to go to the temple and forget the world for a while and feel the Lord's Spirit so readily. I encourage those of you with recommends to attend soon and those who do not to find out more about temples.

Why The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints builds temples.

Some books (and authors) to read...

2009-03-01T21:56:00.003-05:00

One of the perks of living in a very urban area on a very urbanized side of the country is tripping into the path of people I would normally not meet. Medical doctors, nurses, PHD candidates, Post doctoral scientists, teachers, Harvard, Boston University, Tufts, Northeastern University professors, fantastic musicians, and leaders of business and computer markets are just a brief sampling of the people I shove shoulders with. Yes, shove, jostle, pinch, all sorts of things that you would do to siblings and family members. That's what these people are to me - friends and family. No matter the education level and job description people, under the label and the letters at the end of their names, are people. They eat, they sleep, they like to play games and visit. I'm glad to know them and to call them friends. Some of them have even drawn battle plans on my arm (see an earlier post of my color-filled arm from last year sometime)!

But, this is not a post about the amazing people I know... nope it's about authors - yes authors. LDS authors to be specific and a fabulous article in the Boston globe regarding one of these woman authors. Her name is Julie Berry and she has a new book coming out this Wednesday. Now because I happened to be in the right spot at the right time, I ended up with a pre-publication copy of this new YA (Young Adult) novel called The Amaranth Enchantment". It is a great read and moves along at a great pace. If you are into the new sub-genre of "Fairy Tales turned into novels" such as those written by Shannon Hale (one of my favorite authors), Robin McKinley, or Gail Carson Levine (of Ella Enchanted fame) you will appreciate this unique but fairy tale-esque story as well.

Here is the link to the Boston Globe article about Julie Berry and the other LDS women authors who are making themselves known in mainstream literature.

You will note the reference to several of the women authors, some of whom I have read and others I have not but I would like to include a rather well known LDS male YA author - Brandon Mull(click on his name to get more information about him) who is known for his realistic fantasy novels about two siblings who encounter all sorts of adventures (many of them quite hair raising and dangerous) on a secret reserve for magical creatures run by their grandparents. This is a New York Times bestselling series. There are 3 of the 5 books in the series published and the 4th will be available the middle end of March. They are enjoyable, a good read for both boys and girls.

I hope that you take some time and check out the links above, especially the Boston Globe article. It is well written and positive. Wouldn't it be great if the cleanliness of YA novels could some how jump the rope and rub off on it's older sibling Adult Fiction!!

A Positive Boost

2009-02-18T12:00:00.004-05:00

Howdy Friends, Family, and Complete Strangers...

I was sent the link to a new you tube site about basic beliefs of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (aka. Mormons). Here's more info on it... there are some great old school commercials from when I was a kid. Check it out, and it really does lift your spirit and put a smile on your face: Mormon Messages

If you are interested in joining the group on Facebook here is the link for that as well:

Facebook Mormon Messages

Enjoy!!

Okay... I have never seen this one but it's way cute... Swashbuckling Dad and Son

Oh, and this one is good too... Runaway Stage Coach

Time flies...

2009-02-14T23:45:00.003-05:00

Facebook is an amazing tool. I have found friends from college, my mission, high school, middle school, jobs, etc. It's been a great way to see photos of new babies, and catch the latest announcements about peoples lives. I have been thinking a lot about my past and I dove back to my first year teaching - also my last year at BYU. Instead of doing the normal student teaching I did an Internship - I got my own classroom, a contract, half salary, full benefits, and 8 semester hour credits. It was a great deal. I had such an amazing class that first year. Heavenly Father knew how hard it was going to be getting used to teaching and all of the "stuff" associated therewith - so he gave me the best darned class in the world. Truly, they were amazing. I loved those kids and had a great experience.

Yesterday, I began thinking back to that year and wondering where "my" kids were now. It would be neat to know where they were, I thought, and what they were doing with their lives. Voila! The perfect way to find out - Facebook. And, so I dredged up a few names from the attic in my brain and made a search. I've heard back from one of my kiddos already and get this, he is a freshman in college. He told me he just got his mission call. W-O-W. The mental picture I have is of a scrawny, small, quiet boy; really funny and kind. I'm sure he is still funny, and kind, I doubt he's still quiet, and he is much much taller than I remembered! And... he's going on a mission. Holy Cow, time flies. I'm hoping I will hear from some more of my kids, we'll see....

A new Doo (again)

2009-01-14T22:11:00.004-05:00

Here we are folks. Another new doo! This time I added highlights, more layers and a shorter look. You will notice the amazing brunette standing with me - indeed I am privileged to call her not only my friend but.... my hair stylist!! I love you L.E.!!

Shoveling, Snow and a Great Dad

2008-12-19T16:21:00.003-05:00

Growing up I loved the snow, I still do. I remember waking up in the morning, looking out the window at the fluffy snow, and wanting to be out in it. It usually didn't take me too long to get there! Later, when I began driving to school myself I remember going out to find the sidewalks shoveled and even a path across the grass to my car cleared for me. My Dad was amazing, he would get up early, shovel our walks, create paths to all the cars that anyone in our house should need to drive that day, and sometimes shovel the walks of our neighbors.

Now, here I am several years later :-) needing to shovel my own walks. I was so excited to find a $0.50 used snow shovel this summer that I bought it with only the hope of snow in my minds eye. Today, New England winter has arrived. School was let out 3 hours early, and the Governor asked that any non-essential state workers stay home because of the upcoming severe weather. I got home to find 3 inches of snow on my steps and front walk. "Wahooooooooo," I thought!! I can get my shovel and go to work. So, to prove it, here is a picture of me and my shovel, look closely and you will see the somewhat shoveled walks in the background. Even though only 3 of the 12 inches of the expected snowfall had arrived, I put my back (and knees) to the task and was proud of the results!! I know that tomorrow morning I will need to get up and do it all over again and I look forward to it.

Happy Birthday Momsie!!

2008-11-17T09:04:00.004-05:00

Happy Happy Birthday, Mom!!

My mom has hit a milestone today!! She probably wouldn't appreciate me sharing her age all over the Internet, so I won't, but she should be proud of all that she has done in her wonderful life. I would not be the person I am today without her. I love you mom.

This Tuesday

2008-11-02T16:45:00.002-05:00

Hello Friends.

For those of us in the United States, this Tuesday represents a huge opportunity to exercise our freedom. Every year we get the chance to vote and this year we vote on our nation's president. I have chosen to vote for John McCain. I have found that on the issues I find to be of greatest import, namely abortion rights and marriage rights, Mr. McCain stands with my beliefs.

For those of you who have not decided for whom you will vote I am including the links to both Mr. McCain and Mr. Obama's official websites. Please take the time to make yourself aware of the issues and what is most important to you.

John McCain Site

Barack Obama Site

Web Page

2008-10-18T17:24:00.002-04:00

Hello Folks. So as part of starting at Simmons I am required to create a web page using html or xhtml. In other words - I created in raw unadulterated code!

It was hard work!! If you would like to see what I did click on the link below!

Karen's Simmons Web Page

Share it with others I would love to hear what others think!!

Take care....

Best Autobiography

2008-09-29T18:33:00.002-04:00

Thanks to barnesandNoble.com for the use of this image! Now, if you're looking to read something that will have you rolling in the proverbial aisles, this is the book for you. It is the humorous autobiography of Jon Scieszka (said sheska, I believe), a well known children's book author. He wrote "The True Story of the Three Little Pigs", "Math Curse", the Time Warp Trio series, and many others. His growing up is the thing of Beaver Cleaver moved up a few decades. I have made good friends with a fellow book lover who works in several libraries and a children's book store. She provides me with all sorts of new books to read, and this was one of the best. I sat in my school's library as the kids checked out books. All of a sudden I burst out in giggles, and even with a hand over my mouth could not contain the true humor I found in this book. I got some weird looks from the kids and many, "Ms. Bingham, what are you reading?" I encourage anyone to read it, but especially those with many brothers or who grew up in a house of males! Be prepared to laugh hysterically. Beware, every grown male member of my family will be receiving this book for Christmas! Yes, it is that good. Enjoy!!

Sigh

2008-09-29T18:29:00.003-04:00

Well, it has become apparent that my camera was stolen. I did find the camera case in the Lost and Found at church but, alas, no camera and definitely no SD cards. What's the deal with technology and me the past few months? My hard drive crashes and I lose my journal, my camera and cards get stolen and I lose the last 3 years of my life, photographically speaking of course. Sigh. A moment of silence for the loss....

Joy

2008-09-19T17:21:00.003-04:00

Joy.

What a small word to describe a most important feeling.

I felt joy this past week when I spent time with my family in ID. My parents, and whatever children and grandchildren are available, always go to the same place the same time every year. It was the first time in quite a while that my parents and all us kids were able to be together for vacation.

I felt the importance of being close to family, both emotionally and physically. To see my nieces and nephews enjoying each others company was great and I hope that as we all grow older and go about our lives that we still come together and celebrate as a family. Family is such a unique and amazing institution.

So, allow me to share some of my joyful moments with you from this past week:

* Spending two hours watching my sister, brother, nieces and nephews shake their tushies on Wii fit.

* Getting up on water skis and a wake board!!!

* Laughing over completely ridiculous and silly things.

* Feeling completely comfortable in a group of people.

* Going to church with my family.

* Meeting my niece's 3-legged chihuahua and falling in love with it.

* Reading my scriptures in the morning of a beautiful clear day sitting on a dock over calm water.

* Eating my sister's yummy homemade salsa and cheese dips

* Holding my nieces hand while we walked

* Seeing mountains again

* Breathing clean air

* Just being close to my family.

What has brought you joy recently?

Short and Sassy

2008-09-09T21:05:00.002-04:00

Behold the new doo!

Procedural Dating

2008-08-18T07:47:00.009-04:00

I was browsing through The Paper Source store the other day - in their 75% off section

(of course!! - I can't really afford much else there) and I stumbled upon this invaluable find. I wanted to share it with the world - but especially my single friends. It is called.....

THE PROCEDURAL DATING KIT - Because Romance is a Negotiation

(Click on the link above to see what the kit contains - it's worth your time even if you are married - trust me you will be laughing)

I, of course, purchased it immediately ( it was 75% off and I am single, after all). After bringing it home and perusing it's pages I decided it is worth a try. I especially liked the "Notification of Attraction" card. You simply give it to someone you find attractive. On the back there are possible reactions for the person to choose as a response!!

Who else is with me on bringing romance back to a real manageable (and negotiable) experience??!!

Whale Watching, Good Eating, and Good Company

2008-08-15T23:33:00.006-04:00

My mom is here visiting me for the next few weeks - I am loving have her here!! Since she arrived we have been spending a lot of time working on Girl's Camp stuff as it is next week and I am in charge of the 4th year girls. My mom is coming as moral support for me and I think they will be putting her to work in the kitchen!!! And she thought she was coming for vacation :-)

Yesterday we took a little break from Girl's Camp odds and ends and had some fun. We went whale watching!! What an incredible time. We left in the morning and took a high speed catamaran (along with 150 other folks) about 30 miles east of Boston. The particular area they took us is a feeding grounds for the whales. I guess the same ones come back year after year. There were so many whales to see!! It was incredible to see these huge creatures so close. I am constantly amazed at the variety of life that is upon this earth.

We saw so many whales!!
Fun photo of the whale blowing air out. We saw three types of whales - the two pictured are both Humpbacks, I believe.
Capturing the first few moments on the boat!
I wore this from the moment I bought it, through lunch at Legal Seafood and all the way home on the train!! I am so bringing this to girls camp next week. If I ever move back to MT I am looking for a moose or elk antler hat!! I was all over this lobster hat, though!!
In Boston they have what is called Restaurant Week twice a year (I think). It is a great idea. Restaurants all over the city - many of them very upscale and normally extremely expensive - offer a three course meal (hors d'oeuvre, entree, and dessert) for a fixed price. My friend Helen and I had gone to a fabulous restaurant during the last Restaurant Week and so with my mom in town (who appreciates new and interesting foods) we decided to try another one this go around. WOW!! It was amazing. It's called the Elephant Walk Cafe and offers a French Cambodian menu. We were lucky and got a four course spread for the same fixed price ($33.08) as the three course offering in other restaurants. If you live in Boston or are planning on coming here soon - this is the place to go!! Great presentation, amazing flavors and beautiful atmosphere!!

BIG SIGH

2008-08-01T20:04:00.004-04:00

My hard drive crashed. My information was irretrievable by MAC store geniuses. If I want my journal pages from the past year, photos, music I bought, any projects I worked on - in short - anything that I have worked on in the past 12 months I have to pay to have my computer sent elsewhere and hopefully the info can be retrieved. Is it worth it? Or do I just bite it, chalk it up to experience and remember to back up my information on a regular basis from now on!?! Blech, blech, blech. I feel like crying.

Luckily, I saved money by switching to GEICO on my car insurance.

Okay, so the last sentence is not true but it was the perfect place to say something stupid like that. I did save money by purchasing AppleCare when I bought my computer a year ago. So, all of the replacements are free!! Yeah for a positive side.

A question of dating, hanging out, and making friends...

2008-07-29T12:48:00.007-04:00

Hey folks, spurred by a recent FHE conversation and personal pondering I am hoping you will do me a favor. Read the following talk by Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and leave your comments to the following questions:

Dating Versus Hanging Out (talk)

1. What is a date?

2. How do you make friends with members of the opposite sex without giving or receiving the wrong impression?

All God's Creatures Gotta Place.... just, please, not in my kitchen!

2008-07-21T09:14:00.006-04:00

I came home late on Friday night to find a new room mate. It was late and I was tired. I was not prepared to deal with this new addition to our apartment. I thought about just leaving him (or her) until the morning, perhaps with a little sign pointing him (or her) out to my unknowing room mates (the photos don't do the spider's web justice - he/she had made an absolute palace out of the cookie sheet and the dish towel). However, I was feeling squirmy thinking of my little friend chilling out over night on the top of my stove. Nope, I had to take care of the problem tonight. No squatters allowed!! So, my little friend and I came to a compromise, I let him/her live and he/she found a new residence in the back yard.

Needless to say, the stove top is now cleaner. And, I think all of us in the apartment will think twice before we leave out a pan or dish towel for an extended period of time on our kitchen counter.

Blech, I still get creeped out looking at the pictures!!

This is what happens....

2008-07-11T13:53:00.003-04:00

...when you forget to charge your batteries: One picture of a gorgeous storm on the Charles river and no fireworks. Bummer. This was actually the third of July but unfortunately I neglected to charge my camera batteries that night and so I had NO working camera on the 4th of July. Mind you, I was on the tenth floor of a fabulous apartment building in Cambridge with a perfect view of the Hatch Shell fireworks!!! Boston Pops and Rascal Flats in the background, and amazing fireworks. My favorites were the ones that turned into smiley faces and those that floated like comets (actually I thought they looked like the Dementors of Azkaban from the Harry Potter movies, but that's just me). Sorry, no photos!!!!!! But, trust me it was gorgeous and amazing.

Broken Shower Door

2008-06-30T14:58:00.004-04:00

Behold the broken shower door! It fell off its glider somehow and the frame fell to the tub floor and CRASH! out came the glass into millions of tiny pieces! Luckily I was outside the shower and not inside when it happened!!

Ice Cream, Summer Nights, and Friends.

2008-06-26T09:54:00.006-04:00

A few weeks back I took my two girls (lest anyone get the wrong idea, I babysit for two lovely girls after school and all day during the summer) to something called the Scooper Bowl here in Boston. It was a blast!! It is a fundraiser for cancer research and consists of a bunch of ice cream vendors from all over the US coming together and handing out bottomless amounts of ice cream to very happy ice cream lovers. It's a "pay one price and eat as much as you want" kind of deal. We tasted all sorts of lovely things, Moose Tracks, mango sorbet, and even Lobster Tracks (this is New England, after all - fear not, there were no real pieces of lobster, but it was good). I enjoyed every spoon licking last drop of that flavorful and oh so fattening treat. However, my heart was won by the Pineapple Coconut ice cream dished out by the folks at Haagen Daz!!! If you've never tried it, I suggest you get yourself a tub and a spoon (don't even worry about a bowl, you won't need it) and tuck into it some hot summer evening!!

Last week, for my birthday I was feeling a bit lonely (okay, I was feeling sorry for myself and homesick for family). It's ridiculous, really, because I got phone calls from all of my siblings wishing me happy birthday - most of them singing some version of "Happy Birthday" over the wires, and I couldn't ask for better friends than those I have made here in Bean Town - and those who have shown their support for me across thousands of miles that separate us from one another. In the end it turned out to be one of the best birthdays. A friend and I discovered we both enjoy the same Pineapple Coconut ice cream. So, we grabbed a carton, two spoons, and sat out under the stars eating and talking. It was a clear night and the moon was so big and beautiful. I couldn't have asked for a better birthday ending - good friend, beautiful night, and delicious ice cream! So, thank you to those who invented my new favorite ice cream, and thank you to my friends and family who took such good care of me on my birthday, and thank you to a loving Heavenly Father who has allowed me the opportunity to experience all of it!!

Happy Birthday To Me!!!!!

2008-06-19T12:21:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to all of us June 19thers out there!!!

Self-Esteem - Please read

2008-06-13T21:50:00.005-04:00

Hello. This past week has been a bit difficult for me as I reflect on my past. I have felt sad, lonely, and homesick. For a few moments I forgot all that God had done for me - over this last year, especially. But, I found a beautifully uplifting talk by President James E. Faust that so instructed me and comforted me at the same time. I wanted to share it with all who might read this blog in hopes that you too can feel uplifted as I have been. Please read it!

Much love to you!

President Faust's Talk

I am Woman hear me ROAR!!

2008-06-13T11:08:00.004-04:00

This morning I got into my car, backed out of the driveway and heard a FLOP-SQUASH, FLOP-SQUASH coming from the right side of my car. Of course, I gently breaked and pulled over. Wouldn't you know - a squooshy flat tire!! I was already late for work and needless to say I was even later by the time I finished. I could have called for a tow truck, or even driven a few blocks on my flat tire to the nearest service station, but I knew that I had a spare and didn't need to rely on someone else to do what I already knew I could do. Luckily, I hadn't left the drive of my house. So I changed and got down on my hands and knees and changed my tire. I believe learning to do things like this is part of following the counsel of our prophet and other church leaders when they ask us to be more self-sufficient. Like food storage, 72-hr. kits and staying out of unnecessary debt.

Here's a photo of me with my newly changed tire (notice the jack in the right of the picture:-).

Tattooed at FHE!!!

2008-05-21T11:38:00.007-04:00

I can hear the headlines now... "Local Boston resident, Karen Bingham, is in critical condition and is lucky to be alive after foolishly allowing her FHE brothers to draw a battle scene on her biceps (and my, they are nice biceps) with scrap-booking markers."

As may of you know I have been in charge of my ward's whole group FHE since January. FHE stands for Family Home Evening and is a time for families (or friends as those in my congregation are single) to get together, discuss gospel topics, and have a fun time. I have had the best time getting to know people and having my testimony strengthened by hearing what other folks have to say about the various topics we have discussed. The topic for this week's FHE was gratitude and taking care of the one (I used Elder Wirthlin's most recent conference address as my guide, click here if you'd like to read it). Our activity for the evening was to write something uplifting or inspiring on a piece of paper for everyone in the room. At the end of the night, everyone would have a paper full of nice things just about them.

Well, two of my amazing FHE brothers were looking for my paper and couldn't find it. So, as I was tired of hearing them call out my name I made the following offer (bad move on my part), "Okay guys, here's the deal. If you can't find my paper you can write something nice on my arm." You would have thought I had give them free money for how excited they were at that prospect. Of course, I was not expecting them to take me seriously.

And yet, they did.

Below you will find a photo of the soon to be famous artists and, of course, an example of their work.

(I am sad to report that after one night's bathing the artwork was destroyed, never to be seen again.)(sniff-sniff)

Allen and Doug, thanks!

ACCEPTED!!!!!!

2008-05-12T08:38:00.003-04:00

The big news in my life of late.... I was accepted to the Master's of Library Science program at Simmons College!!! Wahoooooooooo! Click here for more information on the program!!

Welcome to Boston!

2008-05-05T21:58:00.006-04:00

A big Welcome to my niece Jessica and her roommate Aimee!! They just finished their freshman year at BYU and decided to come visit me in Boston.

The exciting news in my life, among many exciting things: I have two beautiful girls visiting, I have moved to a new place that I love (there are trees, and grass, and it takes me only 10 minutes to drive to work, so many pluses!! Though, I do miss Trader Joes and Whole Foods being just a few blocks away and super yummy restaurants! Oh well, the sacrifices one makes for comfort and cheap rent!!), I was called to work with the Stake Young Women's program specifically with YW in a spanish branch (Yeah!! I get to be with the young women again AND I get to polish up my Spanish), and... and.... well, I guess that's it. But, I think it's enough for now.

Oh, and Feliz 5 de Mayo!! Tonight I planned a fun FHE for the ward celebrating the battle of Puebla (you don't know the battle of Puebla or the reason 5 de Mayo is really celebrated?? No it is NOT Mexican Independence Day - click here and find out the real meaning!!) We had a brief history lesson, played indoor soccer, whacked a pinata until candy flew and ate yummy Mexican food. All in all a great day!!

Argh, I've been tagged!

2008-04-24T10:22:00.006-04:00

Here are the rules: 1) Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog 2) Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird. 3) Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs. 4) Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I have the secret goal of trying out for Christine's friend in "Phantom of the Opera". She sings "Where in the world have you been hiding......"
2. My grandparents taught school in Samoa in the 60's and I would love to go and teach there too.
3. Someday I want to open a Hot Chocolate bar - with hot chocolates from around the world, plus juices and other interesting drinks that are completely Word of Wisdom friendly.
4. I kissed a stranger in an Italian piazza/square (funny story).
5. I prefer listening to kids stories and songs than popular music. My favorites: "Raspberries" by Jay O'Callahan, and just about anything from Bill Harley (especially "Dad Threw the TV Out the Window").
6. My favorite sports are volleyball and baseball. But, I really don't know a lot about either of them. I used to play baseball with the boys out at recess during 4th grade and I bat left handed even though I'm right handed.
7. I have never taught the same grade two years in a row!!

Hmm, I don't know 7 people with a blog so I will tag who I do know.... thomcarter.com
Lizard Leavitt (I'm the only one who can call her that!), and Maria Stahl.

This is my addition: If you read this leave me a note telling me one or two or ten random things about you that I didn't know!! Thanks.
Smooches,
Karen

A New Beginning

2008-04-22T18:31:00.004-04:00

May I say how grateful I am to so many of you for your love, prayers and support through a very difficult period of my life.
Today, I return to being legally single.
I have felt sad and angry but in the end hopeful. Life moves forward whether or not I join in. I choose to join in and enjoy each day of my life. I have felt the absolute love of my Heavenly Father throughout this difficult time. How grateful I am for healing, forgiveness and hope...

At least I got some exercise...

2008-04-17T16:33:00.002-04:00

So, I did a stupid thing. It's debatable whether the stupidity happened last night, today, or continued from yesterday through today. Here's the scoop:

Because I didn't have to baby sit last night and could get home while there was still plenty of daylight I planned on cleaning my car after I got home. I parked it in front of my apt and ran upstairs to take care of a few things.... Well, as it so happens, I never left my apartment again that day. This morning I get up, get ready, grab all my gear and head outside. It takes me 10 minutes to walk to the lot where I park my car and as I enter it, I look around and realize - my car is not there. Then, it dawns on me, I never moved my car from the day before. This is a bad thing. In my city there is no overnight parking. So, I sigh, and start trudging back to my apartment. I am so sure my car has been towed I stop at the ATM and withdraw the correct amount of cash (at least an arm and probably part of a leg's worth) before turning the corner to my street. Ahhh, the sun never shone on a more beautiful sight then the dust covered hood of my little Honda. Whether it was because I still had my Montana plates or the policeman was feeling generous (or tired, the $30 ticket I found on my mirror was time stamped at 5 a.m.) I'll probably never know. Really, I don't care! I am just grateful that my little baby didn't get towed!!

Rats, Diet-Coke, and Sushi.

2008-04-15T09:37:00.006-04:00

I love FHE (Family Home Evening)! Especially when it involves comedy and great gospel conversation. Lucky for me, last night's FHE incapsulated both elements. Let me just say that printers thrown from second floor balconies do not, I repeat, do not survive. In fact, they shatter and create quite a mess. Diet-Coke and Mentos really do cause a volcanic like reaction! The best part of last nights activities was seeing several rats (yes, the kind with fur and long, scaly tails) slinking along the ground among the leaves around the area of our experimenting. In case you are wondering, city rats really enjoy lapping up Diet-Coke. The evening ended with some amazing Sushi from a little place around the corner from my apt.

In truth the most enjoyable time was spent sitting together with my little FHE family talking about The Family: A Proclamation to the World. The proclamation is a statement from the General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints regarding marriage and family and how vital they are to the plan God has for each of His children. (Here is a link if you would like to read it yourself: Family Proclamation ) We discussed the proclamation by comparing what it says about family and marriage to what the world says regarding these things. The differences are great. I think about my own family and how much I love them and respect them. Through difficult times we have stuck by each other. I grew up knowing the principles of chastity and fidelity in marriage. I was surrounded by a family who valued children and put family first. I am so grateful for that example. This Family Proclamation has strengthened my belief in the importance of families and increased my love for my own family.

Introducing.... Sergio!

2008-04-13T11:22:00.004-04:00

This is my little friend Sergio! He has been my companion through thick and thin these past 4 years. It is so interesting to me how well my Heavenly Father knows who I am and what I need. From the very big, like breathing, eating, shelter, to the in between, like friends, jobs, to the very small like my little friend Sergio. I have learned that God loves me and desires my life to be one of joy. And if it is true for me, it is certainly true for the rest of God's children as well (i.e. YOU)!

Enjoy your Sabbath and the blessings of God in your life. They are there, look for them.

Howdy!

2008-04-11T14:39:00.000-04:00

Well, if you are seeing this, I must have successfully created my blog. What a day! I am currently in my school's library watching the kids learn a belly dance - are you jealous or what?!? My class just got back from a trip to the Science museum - and wow! am I exhausted.