A Day in the life of.......

My Son Is Deaf, Finally! (Subtitled)

2011-03-08T19:33:00.000-08:00

I know you my have found this offensive until the end but I fully agree with not forcing a cochlear implants. Children Should choose for them selves when they are old enough.

August 9 Letter

2010-08-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

Last my companions wanted to have a belated birthday party for me and I was also making them dinner so that didn't work well because they were making me a cake and I was trying to cook.

I went to my first Deaf baptism on Sunday it was really cool. We the sisters are struggling to get investigators who will keep there promises.

Love,
Sister Bennion

August 2 Letter

2010-08-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

I am really busy learning the freeway system right now that I don't have time to read anything until night time any way. Night is really busy. So as much as I'd like to keep in touch or hear from you, I really don't have much time to do anything other than mission work because the field is really busy in comparison to the MTC. I'm not gonna lie it's a bit overwhelming being here and I find myself struggling because the MTC bubble is gone and now I walk into a store and see twilight things and I'm all about wanting that and then I realize that I can't but also I'm struggling with the work and language and all that. We did have a really good week or end of a week. I'm currently borrowing a blanket from one of my companions because there was not one provided for me and I have a pillow but it terrible.

Oh yeah, P-day is Monday. I get a full hour to e-mail and we have a member who lets us do laundry at her house so we do that and it's free which is as bonus so we do all our studying at her house and she feeds us too but sometimes it's gross. Please send me some recipes because I'm kind of like the only one who cooks here. One of my companions cooks, but the other not so much and tonight I'm making Mac and Cheese because both have never had homemade, so I'm excited for that.

Love,
Sister Bennion

The Last of the MTC Pictures

2010-08-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

With Sister Barben

With Sister Bently and Sister Fraser

Sister Felici, Elder Fredricson, Elder Jenson, Elder Ficklin, Elder Llewellyn, Elder Barker, Elder Jensen, Elder Mackey and Victoria

With Elder Ficklin

With Sister Barben

With Sister Whaley

With Sister Bently

With Sister Pitchfoth

With the Italian Sisters

With Elder Llewellyn

With Brother Cropper

Brother Trapnell, Sister Born, Victoria, President Born

With Brother Miles

With Elder Edmons

With Elder Mackey

Sister Felici, Elder Fredricson, Elder Jenson, Elder Jensen, Victoria, Elder Mackey and Elder Barker

With Sister Cropper

July 30 at the Airport

2010-08-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

Mom went to the airport in the early morning and spent an hour or two with Victoria before she headed out to California. Mom said she looked good and was super excited to get out into the field!

July 22 Letter

2010-08-16T13:29:00.000-07:00

Monday I got pink eye I woke up and my eye had goop all over it so I went to the health clinic and got some antibiotic eye drops it all seems better but I refuse to where make up for 10 Days I think that's best.

My troublesome companion left on Monday morning at 6 but we had to be at the travel office at 4:30 because sister young left at 5 that was very sad for me. Sora (sister) Fraser is awesome we are having a great time we got a nice little greeny package for the new ASL sister that came in yesterday the new ASL district came in and they are really cool. Three are hard of hearing and there's 1 CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) so he's really cool. I'm excited to get to know him better.

Today and yesterday I basically have had personal study time. I'll have companionship study and seriously like five hours of personal study time today. Because the new district crazy schedule this week. Starting Friday I'm back to my normal schedule.

One of the elders in my district was delayed for health reasons so I'm happy but sad at the same time. I sad that he had to stay but I'm happy that I'm not the only one from the district. Yesterday I got some one on one time with my teacher Sister Cropper. She came in and taught me for 2 hrs. She didn't have to come in because I basically had missionary study time all day yesterday, but she did so I need to do something nice for her.

Elder Llewellyn the only other person from my district who has been in isolation because he had a very low white blood cell count so they didn't want him to get sick so he was isolated for 25 hrs. I felt so bad for him and all he could do was personal study which was 18 hrs of Personal study because we are only allowed to have 7 hrs of sleep. Now he's out and has new companion for the English district and is really happy and he was at the hospital yesterday and he got me a Dr. Pepper from the vending machine because he knows I love them.

Pat Walker got here on Monday so I see here every day it's nice to have dear friends here. Did I tell you that there is an elder that has a crush on me. He is serving his mission here at the MTC in the referral center he made my entire district a 2 year calendar which was really nice.

Oh, and I teach all in ASL and the new district will be watching, so I’m kind of nervous.

Give Zoe a kiss from me on her birthday!!!

Love,
Sister Bennion

My district with President Born

With Elder Smith

With Sister Fraser

With Sister Fraser, Sister Lovejoy and Sister Young

Sister Cropper, Brother Hamelton, Brother Black, Elder Given, Elder Noriega, Brother Cropper, Elder Halbert, Elder Smith and Victoria

With Elder Llewellyn

With Elder Llewellyn and Elder Ficklin

July 8 Letters

2010-08-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

So this week I got a new companion the other Romanian district left on Monday and this sister is the only member of her district so President Born put us together her name is Leanne Fraser (Frazer is how you pronounce her Name) In Romaneste sister is Sora. She is from England, in a town called Staffordshire, which is near Derbyshire (Pemberley). So, she's seen a lot of Pride and Prejudice places. As you can see I'm Learning Romaneste along with ASL.

I got your package and your letter I also got a letter from Shelly. Your Pictures were great and I especially like the Addie Pictures the one in between the mattresses was my favorite. I got a cold this week so I bought some echinacea (spelling?) and Vitamin C and Cough drops so hopefully I'll get better soon I started the echinacea as soon as I first felt sick.

I should get My Travel orders soon so as soon I get it I will let you know all the information. We are allowed to call home from the airport, I'll only call if you want me to so it's up to you on that.

Love,
Sister Bennion

A Whole Lot of Pictures

2010-07-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

Victoria sent home her memory card with pictures from the MTC. I'm going to put all of the ones taken before July 1 here and hopefully add the others that correspond with her later letters.

Elder Kinne and Elder Llwellyn

Elder Smith

A no talking day

With Sister Aussen

Just playing around

With Sister Vanderwood

Sister Fraser and Sister Wilson

The Elders

My companions

With Sister Young

Sister Fraser, Sister Young, Sister Lovejoy, Sister Aussen, Sister Wilson, Victoria and Sister Vanderwood

2010-07-07T18:22:00.001-07:00

So! I have about 3 weeks left before I leave the MTC. I'm excited and sad. I'm trying to avoid drama, but it seems to find me. One of our Elders may be sent home because he is immature and really not ready to be here and he's really arrogant about his signing skills. Don't get me wrong, he is really talented, I just struggle because he puts me and my skills down. President Born is at a loss as well. He asks us (the Sisters) every Sunday how the district is and about each Elder specifically and nothing changes for the better. Everything seems to get worse. He has talked to each of them individually, as a group, he's had our Zone leaders talk to them and nothing is working. What I find interesting is that our entire Zone has noticed and said something to President Born. I thing God is really teaching me patience.

Week 6

2010-07-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

One good bit of news: I shook hands with Elder D. Todd Christofferson. On Friday we had a big devotional for all the mission presidents and all the missionaries, that the choir sang at. Ten of the 12 were there and Elder Oaks was speaking at. On Sunday the choir got to sing for the Sacrament meeting that President Monson was speaking at. Normally we get to sing and then leave but this time we sang and went to a different room and got to watch the talk. So that was cool. The first 20 minutes of his talk was so cool. It was all made up on the spot, it was so cool. The reason I know that is because it was very clear when he started looking at the teleprompter.

Anyway, it has been a very exciting week. We have one more performance on Saturday. It's gonna be like Music and the Spoken Word, so we get to sing a lot. I know you know this but I saw the Smiths. I do my best to see them every day because it nice to see people from home. They are going to the same mission my District Leader is going to because the temple is part of the DC North Mission, so I introduced Elder Kinne (Kinny) to them.

We are doing this activity where we are deaf for a day every week. So we use ear plugs but the ones we used were so annoying and painful. I saw Elder Westover from the Wilford 2nd ward. I can't remember his first name but it was cool to see people that I know form home. He's going to New York South I think. That's the same mission that Annie Walker, Shelly's cousin, served but he is going English speaking so he leaves next week.

Love,
Sister Bennion

2010-06-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the picture. It was funny. I showed my zone leader and said “how rude they're having Pie pizza and bragging about that.” I got the package. Thank you. The pictures were great. We don't take a lot, let me change that, I don't take a lot of pictures here. I don't know why, but I don't. Today is p-day and sadly the temple was closed. So we are actually finished going to the temple here.

Today for the mission president's seminar we sang Jesus Once of Humble Birth. It was a really pretty arrangement of it. We are singing in quartets: Elder, Sister, Elder. It's kind of weird and we had such a small amount of space that we were touching, but we sounded good. I guess that's the most important thing. Well, as usual, time is running short. Thank you for your love and support.

Love you tons!
Sister Bennion

Week I Think 6 Maybe 5

2010-06-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

Today started awesome! The choir performed today for 6 of the apostles today. President Eyring is speaking to the new mission presidents. We only get to walk in and sing and then leave but, none the less, it is still a very cool experience. Check the church news this week. We were told by the Mission President's wife, Sister Smith, that usually the choir is has a picture in the church news. So look, and if it does I would really like a copy of it.

This week has been an interesting one. My companionship is getting better. A lot of the problem is me, I'm sure that is a big surprise to you, but there you have it. I'm admitting that I am the problem here.

I heard form Bonnie yesterday that was cool. I really love her.

I am really struggling with the language right now because I came into the MTC knowing English sing, its called SEE sign. Anyway, I'm still trying and I will continue to improve. The teachers have said that we will have a moment in our lives when we all of the sudden realize how to accept the language, there hope is that we will have that moment here at the MTC. When I get home I will be so good at charades. I do a lot of becoming a picture and portraying it, so make a list of stories you want to see done in actions and I will show you all of them. We are preparing the Plan of Salvation to teach and it keep reminding me of Grandpa. I truly have a testimony of the plan.

I'll be sending some pictures soon so you can add to the blog visuals. Well, my time is again running short. I love you and miss you muchly, but I'm happy. Talk to you soon.

Love,
Sister Bennion

2010-06-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today is crazy. I need to be up at 6:00 today and breakfast at 6:30. Then I had choir rehearsal at 7:00 to 7:55. It's only supposed to go until 7:50, but we try and get as much time in a day. I really wanted this, so I'm willing to sacrifice this because of the exclusivity. The importance to the MTC takes priority, so until it's over on the 27th, class takes a backseat. I sing during missionary directed time, which we get about four hours a day of that, so I have a lot of time to practice. Some of the songs we are singing are: This is the Christ, Precious Savior Dear Redeemer, Blessings (it's like an arrangement of Come Thou Font) and many other songs I can't remember.

Sister Beck came and spoke on Sunday for Relief Society. That was really neat. Then on Tuesday Elder Halstrom from the Presidency of the Seventy spoke and he gave us a list of five things that will make us great missionaries. It's another “Be” list.
1.Be a true disciple
2.Be completely obedient
3.Be a loyal companion
4.Be optimistic
5.Be diligent
I thought you might like this.

Today after practice we went to the temple and it was good. Sorry this letter is short, but it's a crazy busy day. Next week will be short as well., but I should have time after that. Talk to you soon.

Love,
Sister Bennion

June 17 Email

2010-06-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

This week has been a challenge because Sister Lovejoy has been sick and Sister Young is driving me crazy. Sister Lovejoy had some of the fluid in her inner ear get into places it's not supposed to be, so it made her really sick. Today is the fist day this week that she has felt good. We took her to the clinic yesterday morning and she got some medication, so she is doing better now. Sister Young on the other hand is totally into to self healing and and has no problem with telling me that I am weird because I don't believe in that. Then, one of the Elders from the referral center heard me talking about missing Dr. Pepper and he got me one. He is serving his mission here, so he can leave the MTC on p-day and yes, this Elder has a crush on me. He just dropped it off secretly in my class room so I couldn't refuse it. So I have a Dr. Pepper, but she keeps calling me a sinner to my face. I feel like she doesn't know were the line is.

On a happier note, I have really good news. The training for the new mission president is next week starting the 23-27 and they needed to put together an mtc choir of 36 voices. They held tryouts and everything and I made it in. So I have 9 songs to memorize by the 23rd and we will be singing this for the 12 apostles and the 1st presidency. I can not in words tell you the joy I felt when I opened the letter that said that I had made it in. I'm also singing on Sunday in Sacrament meeting so that is cool. Tell every one I love them.

Love,
Sister Bennion

June 10 Letter

2010-06-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful spiritual experience today I the temple. I felt the woman I went through for hold my hand. So I prayed about her and knew that she had accepted the Gospel. I can't wait to meet her some day. It was wonderful.

At our Sunday fireside Crawford Gates spoke, Vanja Watkins (I didn't realize how many songs she wrote that I love), and Bob Cundick. It was great. Vanja spoke the best, but I really enjoyed it. The MTC is putting together a choir and I'm trying out for it. I'll keep you posted on that.

Elder Hales spoke this week too. It was amazing. He talked a lot about listening to the spirit. He shared a story of when he was a mission president and a woman felt the spirit said you teach by the spirit, but the Elder just went on without saying anything. So, he cautioned us not to do that.

P-day is way too short! I love you dearly and do miss you, but not to the point of distracting me.

Love,
Sister Bennion

June 10 Email

2010-06-10T12:46:00.000-07:00

Week 4 is going well. I am the Senior companion again. I was the 1st week as well. I'm now hitting some struggles to learn the language and some of the suggestions from Preach My Gospel don't apply like reading books in my mission language... Anyway, I'm finding ways to learn and getting tutoring from one of our teachers, which has really helped.

Since I've been here we, all the missionaries, have had the opportunity to hear form two Apostles Elder Christoffersen, and Elder Hales. This has been wonderful. Also, on Sunday during our fireside we had some church composers come and speak to us. The first was the one who wrote the music to Our Saviors Love, the next was the woman who wrote the music to Latter-day Prophets and other primary songs and hymns and then Robert and Sister Cundick and yes, I did say hi. Sister Cundick said that she was hoping she'd see me while I was here.

Once again I feel like my computer time is going too quickly!

Love you all
Sister Bennion

Another June 3 Letter

2010-06-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

I only have 30 minutes a week on the computer, so it's easier if what's sent is short and only one email. As far as pictures, just send them. It's easier that way. Tell Lisa thank you for the picture of the girls.

I only get to do my morning exercises every other day because one companion refuses to exercise. So, we have to have one stay with her while the other goes with the Romanian sisters, but I have gym every day except p-day and Sunday and I'm getting more involved in four square. So, I do get worked fairly well!

I have some pictures but not many, so that's why you don't have any. My laundry turned out fine. So you taught me well. Any news on my car? If people want to email me have them use dearelder.com because I get those twice a day.

Did I tell you Elder and Sister Christofferson came and spoke to us on Tuesday? It was a wonderful surprise! They talked on mission work.

We (the sisters) have been trying to help our Elders shine and really become missionaries. This may sound harsh, but please don't take it as we don't love our Elders, because I know for a fact that I do. Our Elders are very immature! Not a huge surprise, but they are and we are trying to help them succeed. The Elders don't feel respected and that we talk down to them, not to them – and that's true sometimes, but not always. But it's important that we understand. We as sisters don't trust the Elders because they used our pasts against us. Anyway, that's not the point. Communication has completely broken down. This morning we had district inventory and just discussed everything and I think things will get better, but we shall see.

One more thing, please send more laundry soap. I only have enough for one more load of laundry and I love that my clothes still smell like home. One of my nylons, brand new, had a run it it from top to toe.

I got a package from Shelly, Eric and the boys today with Tinkerbell pens, Dr. Pepper jellybeans, a letter and a journal. If you hear from them, tell them thanks for me. I'll try to get a letter to them this week. I was told today that I can only write letters on p-day, so I'll only be able to email and write you once a week. Sorry, but I intend to follow the rules.

Tell everyone I love them. Well, until next week.

Love,
Sister Bennion

June 3 Letter

2010-06-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

To day is p-day so we went to the temple and did a session. We (not me) woke up late and then we had to go get a temple recommend from the class, and then one of my companions forgot theirs in the room so we had to go get that. But it was good exercise because we live on the 4th floor of our building and our classroom is on the 4th floor as well.

So the first two weeks have been great. I have gotten into a routine and love it. Mostly I hate Saturdays because they are the longest day and we spend 4 hrs planning for the week: Companionship, Personal and District. Then we go to lunch and then we have 5 hrs of study time then dinner, gym, and finally class where we act out pictures with out sign for 2 or 3 hrs. Anyway, that is not the most fun part of my day. I am preparing a musical number to try out with for a devotional or something. One of the Zone leaders plays the piano and he said that he would play for me.

If people ask how I'm doing tell them that other than the sleep deprivation, I am loving being a missionary. I need to focus more on study time but all in all I love it. I really am not missing home. I miss you food that's all, oh and being able to be alone, but oh well life goes on.

My ASL is getting much better I really don't know as much as you think I do but I'm learning a lot. my time is almost up for this week so know that I love you all and will send pictures soon.

~Sister Bennion

May 27 Letter

2010-05-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

I have my new address at the MTC. Please use this for any letters or packages:

Sister Victoria Pearl Bennion
MTC Mailbox # 234
CA-ANA 0721
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793

Life is great I have 2 companions we have a total of 11 people in our district which is all ASL Missionaries. Our branch has a bit more, like 4 districts. Our branch president is fluent in ASL. His name is President Born.

I am really struggling waking up in the morning but I'm getting used to it, hopefully. We don't technically have to be up till 6:30 but depending on the day and what we have going on we are usually up at 6-6:15. I love gym!!!!!! We get an hour of gym every day except Sunday and p-day.

My departure date may change and if is does I'll keep you posted on that, but they say that we won't get that information until about 6 or 7 weeks into our training.

I have discovered how much ASL I don't know because I rely on my English mind way to much. One of my teachers is kind of a tutor more than teacher and he is helping me think of my ASL Vocabulary as concepts because each sign has so many different words in English. So instead of seeing a word when I think of a sign I need to think of a picture or a concept, like cat. Instead of seeing the word cat I need to see a picture of a cat. He is having me take vocabulary and describe the concept to him, and paint a mental picture.

Please don't use my e-mail because I only get 30 min a week but if you want you can use dearelder.com I think time is short. More to come later .

Love you all!
Sister Bennion

May 22 Letter

2010-05-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

I'm sending you the schedule of what we did our first day, but I'll explain what I can remember. It feels like I've lived here nine weeks already. You dropped me off and an Elder walked me to my dorm, where a Sister took me to get my key and room number. Then we dropped my bags off in my room and went to a big meeting room where I got my Blue Card, which is your life here. It has your weekly allowance, your meals and security access to the dorms and computers. Plus, it works the laundry. After we got the Blue Card we had to verify who we were and where we are going.

Then we had our picture taken for our Branch President. Next we got an envelope with the missionary handbook in it and two name tags, one with an orange dot that meant we are newbees and then a woman clipped it on us. Then we fixed personal information, which they had our old home number and I didn't remember the new one, so I put your cell phone down because I know that. I got a padlock for my personal stuff.

Then the Host Sister met me as I exited the big room and then we went to the bookstore to get all of our materials for our mission. I'm missing one book that I'll pick up on p-day, but in my bag was: two planners (because each one only has six weeks in it and we are here for nine sadly, even if you know ASL), the Gospel Art Book, a black missionary binder, two Preach My Gospels (which is good because someone took one of mine), an ASL Book of Mormon (on dvd), the Missionary Health Guide, Missionary Language Book, a vocabulary book (that we won't use because it's really for people learning English), and an ASL dictionary.

After that I was take to my class where I met my companions, our teachers and the rest of my district. We have three hard of hearing missionaries and one deaf missionary. After class we went and met the Mission President in an orientation with all of the new missionaries. Then we had dinner – roast beef and potatoes. We only had one choice. Ali would have been in heaven. We also had ice cream, but I didn't have any for one, because it's fattening and two, because I was full. I had a side salad, but sadly on a side salad, because the bowls are small and unless you get the salad entrée (which they don't offer every day) you can only have Ranch dressing, so I guess I'm learning to like it.

After dinner we had an activity where we went to different rooms and watched missionaries start a visit. Then we took over. It was funny to hear some of the Elders. Clearly, some of the Elders need to learn to listen to the people. When we finished that we met our Zone Leader and Coordinating Sister. They gave us more information. Then we split and the sister took us back to our room and went over room cleanliness and then we unpacked at around 10 pm. Then it was time for bed. It was a very long day.

We have had a few more orientation activities, but not many. Usually one a day, if that. It's so hard to remember everything because it's so busy and the days seem to blend together. For the most part my day is: wake up and get ready, study for 30 minutes, breakfast, class or study, lunch at 12ish, gym for one hour, class or study, dinner at 5ish, class/study/devotional, plan from 9-9:30 pm, shower for me (my other companions shower in the morning), companion prayer, quiet time at 10:15 pm and lights out at 10:30 pm.

I can't print emails I found out. So if you have a long email you may have to wait 'til I can write you back. Our Branch President said to use dearelder.com. We get that very fast here.

Love,
Victoria (Sister Bennion)

The First Letter

2010-05-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

Things are good. I'm in a trio, so I have two companions. On of my companions is hard of hearing, which is cool. When we got here they put our badges on for us. That was neat. The first day was a little overwhelming because there is just so much. There are a lot of rules. No music right now. I guess the mission president didn't want it. I got an ASL Book of Mormon.

Oh, my departure date is July 21, 2010. So it looks like I'll be here the full nine weeks. We have gym next and my hard of hearing companion needs to buy a bag, so I'll talk to you soon. My P-day is Thursday, so you should hear from me then.

I don't really think this has set in yet, but I'm sure it will soon.

The MTC

2010-05-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning finally came. I finished my packing. I got everything together and Mom packed it in the car. Then I went to lunch with Mom, Ali & Addie at Goodwood. I had a most excellent BBQ pulled pork sandwich. I stopped at Smiths to buy a comb and brush, because I realized at lunch that I had forgotten them. Then we all drove down to the MTC. When we arrived, I unpacked my bags, took some pictures, said good-bye and I was off. My mission has begun!!!

The Setting Apart

2010-05-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

Late Tuesday night I was set apart as a missionary. A lot of good people were there: Phil Hansen, Steve & Janet Turley, Gus Chin, Jeff Miner, Trevor Anderson, Nate Mayfield, My Mom, Ali, Ryan, Doug Bowers, Scott Newbold and the Stake President. It was a great night. I loved the advice and blessing.

This is my first picture as a missionary - Sister Victoria Bennion!

Farewell Family Dinner

2010-05-17T21:13:00.000-07:00

Monday night my whole family came over for dinner. We ate great food and enjoyed each others company. Sadly, this will be the last time I will see some of them for 18 months. Wow!

Mission Farewell Party

2010-05-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

After I spoke in both the Wilford 2nd and Grandview 1st wards (and also sang in the W2 ward) my family threw me a farewell party in my backyard. It was fun to be able to chat and visit with my friends and family before I head out. Here are some pictures of the party.

Marchelle & Aubrey

Tedi, Ilsa & their family

Chowin' down on the good food

The Pulvers

Jordan & Jake

Chatting with Bonnie

Beckie, Jordan & Emma

Janet & Bishop Turley

Anna's Family

The Hills

Janet & Bishop Turley

Janet, Bishop, Marchelle & Brad

Melissa, Ryan & Zoe

Mom, Melissa, Ryan & Zoe

Emmalyn, Maddie and Ann Marie

Emmalyn, Ann Marie & Barbra

Ann Marie, Ali, Emmalyn & Barbra

With Lisa

My Mission Call!!!!!!!

2010-03-08T21:05:00.000-08:00

California Anaheim Mission

This is Orange County
The Black dots are cities I know are in my mission and gray ones are the ones I'm not sure about if they are in my mission.

This is the Temple in my mission
The Newport Beach Temple

Silent Weekend Report

2009-09-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

Silent Weekend was a blast we were at Camp Tuttle which is a Catholic camp it was just weird having a facial expressions workshop in a Catholic chapel. The other think was that all the cabins were named after Catholic Saints I was in St. Margaret cabin.
These were my cabin mates the on the far left really didn't do much with us and she left before we ate breakfast on Saturday. Next to her is my friend Brandee she has been in three classes with me, next is Heather, and then it's Crystal both of them have been in all my ASL classes from the start, and them me, and then Amberlee who I met there and she is a lot of fun.
Crystal didn't like this picture and asked me to take another so here is the other one but I don't like this one.
I had the camera with me all weekend trying to get a picture of a little critter but they run so fast that it's hard but I finally found one so here it is.

Grandpa Ted!!! In our hearts forever!

2009-07-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Ted Passed away this morning. It is with love that we celebrate your life. Grandpa's passing was not a surprise I am thankful for the peaceful passing and the breath of relief that his passing brings to Grandma and my Mom.

Grandpa we will miss you but we are happy that you are finally reunited with your family once again.

A Summer Goal Complete!!!!!!!

2009-07-10T12:16:00.000-07:00

This Summer I set out a goal to go hiking with Ry Ry as much as possible. However I set another goal to hike Grandeur Peak, So at 6:30 am I woke up filled my Camelbak with ice and water made two sandwiches grabbed my Hiking shoes and left with Ryan at 6:50 am. We got to church fork at 7 am and the gate was still closed so we put our sun screen on and just as we finnished that they opend the gate which I was glad for. Ryan was trying to show me why we wanted to wait for the gate to open by whistle from the gate to the parking lot, That got annoying quick. It was a 3 mile hike up so 6 round trip. we got up to the top at 10 is it took us(Me) 2hr and 40min to hike up, but it was well worth it because I accomplished a summer goal.

So I saw this waterfall and I had to have a picture. I love waterfalls I think they are one of the most beautiful things on the planet.

During the hike Ryan found blue belly lizards and he caught on so I could see the blue belly because I love blue!!! ;D
Cute and little I like em like that.
We finally made it to the top had snack time and loved it. Look at that view isn't it beautiful lovely lovely lovely.
Just in case you don't believe it was Grandeur peak here's your Proof.

I am so proud you have no Idea

Hiking Dog Lake

2009-07-03T18:54:00.000-07:00

So on July 1st the rest of millcreek canyon opened up so Ry Ry went on a Hike / Nature Walk up to Dog Lake it is a 2.5 mile hike up so round trip it's 5 miles it is by far one of my favorite hikes because their are so many colors and waterfalls and it ends at a lake so that makes me happy. so here's a cute picture of Ry Ry and me as we finished our hike.

Hiking Salt Lake Overlook

2009-07-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

This Summer I had a goal to go hiking as much as possible and since I have Big Brother who likes Hiking we try to go every week. Thursday June 25th I had off work and so Ry Ry and I went up Millcreek Canyon to the Salt Lake Overlook and it was beautiful. I Forgot to bring a snack and so Ry gave me one of his sandwiches. Because it was an odd day we were able to bring the dogs and they had a great time. This Hike is 2.5 miles up but it was totally worth it there are I think 13 switchbacks to the top and it's switchbacks all the way.
Ry Ry and Me loving the fruits of our labor.
I did it Wahoo!!! and I made it in one piece that's More improtant and I didn't fall some times I fall on hikes and the person I'm with has to help me a lot.

Twilight Nerd Strikes again!

2009-05-31T21:17:00.000-07:00

if your not a Twilight fan sorry but I am so that's why this is on my blog. If your are a Twilight fan enjoy!!!!

Movie Trailers - Movies Blog

Aww!!! My Time in Spanish Fork

2009-05-22T17:32:00.000-07:00

This week I got to spend time with My Best Friend Anna her Husband Mark and their Baby Noah. Now this picture is of Noah when he was really young he is now almost a year. Anna and Mark just bought their first house It's really beautiful. We went to lunch at this restaurant or Diner called One Man Band Diner which is kind of a cross between Denny's and the training table they have the same kind of food that Training Table and they have the phone thing but they have the breakfast thing being served all day. then for dinner Mark cooked stake and corn on the grill Anna made red lobster rolls and I cut the Watermelon and cut my finger. This was a great mini vacation.

Thank you anna and Mark for such a great time!!!! and Thank you Noah For Being such go cut lovable baby!!!!!

Happy Birthday!

2009-04-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

This is for my nephew but I thought you all might like to see!!

" Grandma Darlin ' "

2009-04-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

For My ASL Class we were given the opportunity to give a presentation on a grand parent, I chose Grandma Darlin' because she is my namesake. while searching for info on her I found this link about Grandma Darlin'. Pleas take a moment and read this because she is truly a special woman and I think everyone should know her!!!
This made my day I was so happy to find it yes it made me cry but that's my Grandma and I love her and always will she is my Darlin always

Personal Ethics Made Funny

2009-03-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

So today in my ethics class we started our discussion on same sex marriage and my teacher started the discussion saying and I quote "Lets Talk about sex." Now I don't know how many of you know the music group "Salt-N-Pepa" but when he said that I herd the song in my head. for those of you not familiar with it here are the lyrics.

"(Punch it, Hurb

Yo, I don't think we should talk about this
Come on, why not?
People might misunderstand what we're tryin' to say, you know?
No, but that's a part of life)

Come on

[CHORUS]

Let's talk about sex, baby
Let's talk about you and me
Let's talk about all the good things
And the bad things that may be
Let's talk about sex
Let's talk about sex
Let's talk about sex
Let's talk about sex

Let's talk about sex for now to the people at home or in the crowd
It keeps coming up anyhow
Don't decoy, avoid, or make void the topic
Cuz that ain't gonna stop it
Now we talk about sex on the radio and video shows
Many will know anything goes
Let's tell it how it is, and how it could be
How it was, and of course, how it should be
Those who think it's dirty have a choice
Pick up the needle, press pause, or turn the radio off
Will that stop us, Pep? I doubt it
All right then, come on, Spin

[CHORUS]

Hot to trot, make any man's eyes pop
She use what she got to get whatever she don't got
Fellas drool like fools, but then again they're only human
The chick was a hit because her body was boomin'
Gold, pearls, rubies, crazy diamonds
Nothin' she ever wore was ever common
Her dates heads of state, men of taste
Lawyers, doctors, no one was too great for her to get with
Or even mess with, the Prez she says was next on her list
And believe me, you, it's as good as true
There ain't a man alive that she couldn't get next to
She had it all in the bag so she should have been glad
But she was mad and sad and feelin' bad
Thinkin' about the things that she never had
No love, just sex, followed next with a check and a note
That last night was dope

Let's talk about sex, baby (sing it)
Let's talk about you and me (sing it, sing it)
Let's talk about all the good things
And the bad things that may be
Let's talk about sex (come on)
Let's talk about sex (do it)
Let's talk about sex (uh-huh)
Let's talk about sex

Ladies, all the ladies, louder now, help me out
Come on, all the ladies - let's talk about sex, all right
[repeat]

(Yo, Pep, I don't think they're gonna play this on the radio
And why not? Everybody has sex
I mean, everybody should be makin' love
Come on, how many guys you know make love?)

[CHORUS]"

Anyway after we got started we talked about the reasons you have sex, and as always we get off on tangents and we got talking about forced sex, rape, and some one in class said a very quotable quote and I felt the need to share it.

Warning this might offend you and it is not meant to I just thought it was funny.

"Rape ... is forced expressions of Love."

I don't actually agree with this but I thought it was funny any way.

Eye Masters Story

2009-03-07T16:59:00.000-08:00

Okay so this was my second video which was much harder than the first one. I turned it in on Thursday so I don't have a grade for it yet but I will let you know as soon as I have it.
So this video was about describing things like a bedroom. My video was describing my work this is about 8 or 9 min long so I hope you enjoy.

Mac and Cheese

2009-02-26T21:42:00.000-08:00

So as most of you know I am in an ASL class this would be my second semester in the ASL program. In this class we do lots of presentations and videos. I got my first video grade back 96% and for you viewing pleasure I have up loaded the video. I hope you all enjoy if you want it's about 5 min long.

Extra Extra Read All About It !!!!!!

2009-01-07T19:48:00.000-08:00

I have news and I know how you all love news!!!!

To start I want to thank Shelly, you are the greatest this was the best gift you could have ever given me so thank you thank you thank you.

I am now a card caring member of RID The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf!!!!!

So for Christmas this year my sister-in-law gave me a membership to RID. If you are interested here is link to the official site.

Also starting on Monday January 12 I will be starting my second semester of Sign Language, and I am stoked.

Love you all hope you had a great holiday season!!!

~V

Christmas

2008-12-25T18:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas !!!!!!!!

Yay for Babies!!!!!

2008-10-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

This is my Post of Babies aren't they cute?!!!!!

Will

Walks

Addy or Boo

Baby D

what can I say I just love them all!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm back and I'm a little smarter!!!!!!

2008-10-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

Mom told me I should post this so I could see that as she put it "I am to Sign Language as Ali is to the the computer." which as most of you know is the ultimate complement. so this is the the break down of my ASL report card.

Deaf in America Papers

#1 .................................100%
#2 .................................100%
#3 .................................100%
#4 .................................100%
#5 .................................100%

Deaf Culture Activity

#1 ...................................83%
#2 .................................100%

Tests

Units 1-3 .......................98%
Interpreting .................82%

All I can say it this is very fun and I love it!!!!!!!

Amazing News!!!!!!

2008-09-11T20:40:00.001-07:00

Today I had to go to the Sandy Store to help out because they were short handed and during my shift down there and deaf woman came in to pick up her glasses and I was the one who got to help her and it was amazing to be able to talk to some one who is not in my class or my teacher, a real live member of the Deaf community. It was even more cool for me because a lot of other people customers and employee's saw that I was signing to this woman and just watched our interaction. All I can say is that I don't know why do drugs because today I had a great no amazing natural high.

Oh what a Day!!!!!

School

2008-09-10T21:09:00.000-07:00

So My politics class is the one class I always dread but some how I always leave fasinated with it. Today we started history and religion and how it shaped our Government. I found this class very interesting because we put the time line together form 10,000 BC to 1700 AD Pre-American government. I don't think I'm ever going to be excited to go to class but I hope I will always leave fansinated with our government and the history of it.

On another note I am doing an 8 page paper on the patriate act so if you have informaton or articles, etc. please let me know what or where they are.

Wish me luck my first signing test is tomorrow I think I will do well even though my finger spelling and comprehension is slow.

Oh oh oh I made $20 in commission this week all in one day.

My Trip With Courtney and Ilse

2008-09-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

Courtney's family has a cabin up in Island Park Idaho and there was a weekend where her family was not going to be up there so she got permission to invite Ilse and I and so we went up on Wednesday August 13th and stayed till Saturday August 16th up there with her Grandma who was Staying there for the whole month of August. We took lots and lots of pictures which I won't boar you with but I will so you my favorite ones.
This was the first group Picture we took we thought it would be fun to take pictures at all the state lines so obviously Idaho would be the first state line we would cross. I did do the stupid thing form a walk to remember and stratled the state line and yelled out I'm in two places at the same time, what can I say I'm a dork.
This was just a really cute Picture of us inside Courtney's cabin. For those of you who don't know who these people are on the left in Yellow is Courtney, in the Middle is Ilse (Ill-sa is how you say her Name), and on the right in Black is me. We had a glamor morning where we did each others Hair it was really fun to have a total girlly girl morning. But Seriously don't we all look cute!
well this is the only picture of the river by Court's cabin that I like enough to put up even though I look like a retard but the river is so cool they get fish that are 2 feet long it's way cool, also the water dose not look very deep at all at leas when you look into it but it really is I didn't jump in to see if Court was telling the truth I just trusted her.

We went to this really Pretty Lake Called Quake Lake. The lake was created by an Earthquake and then the quake site flooded.
This Bolder during the Earthquake rolled down one side of the mountain then up to where it sits now.
This is a Picture of that same bolder just so you can see how big it really is. The plaque between Ilse and I has a list of all the people who died in the flood that followed the Earthquake.

Now we Decided that since we did a Glamor morning we should do some glamor picture the following are my favorites that we took here.
This is one of my favorite pictures of me and as most of you know I am very picky about pictures of me so I hope you like it. So after they saw this picture of me they all wanted one as well right here.
This was just a cute Picture of Ilse and me by a big bolder.

So We took Lots of pictures here if you want to see them just ask cause I'll show you but I didn't want to post them all up here because we just took way to many in my opinion. After we finnished up at Quake lake we Droive into west yellowstone and Went looking around it remided me a little of old town San Deigo just walking in and out of all these little shops we went into this one Jewlery stor and Court bougt us all an Amber pendant next time any of you are at my house I'll show you but we all decided that that was perfect for me because one of my favoirte songs that we listend to a lot on this trip was 311's Amber. Any Way we bought this sour dough bread mix that we took back the cabin to make and this bread doesn't call for Milk or Water the liquid ingredient is ...... any guesses?........... BEER! It's called beer bread and it is really good by they way. Luckly we were all old enough to buy beer so that was not a problem.
So we all thougt it would be funny to take a picture of me holding the bottle that the breadmix was in and the bottle of beer while Ilse held the bread up and pretended she wasn't in the picture. Now the funny part to them was I was the only person who drink's in our group so the now wanted proof I told them that this dosen't count as proof because anyone can hold a bottle for beer and we know I didn't drink it because we needed it for the bread.

Day Two

Friday We Got up early. Well I woke every one up and then went back to sleep until Ilse jumped on top of me and then for the rest of the morning they all learned that Victoria is not a Morning person in fact they learned that Victoria is Grumpier than Grumpy the dwarf in the morning. So we got up and through on shoes and sweatshirt and went to big lake where we saw lots of fish the were ginormous. That morning was our "Footloose and Fancy 'Free'" morning if you catch my drift if not it's okay. Later that day well not much later we actually went into yellowstone park and I have tons of pictures but I'm only putting a few up so like I said if you want to see more I'll show you.
Welcome to Montana. This was on the way to West Yellowstone.
We felt the need to take a funny picture. "really you can't afford a DUI?"
Finally we made it to Yellowstone. We stopped to take a picture here and no one was here and then all of the sudden 15 people decided to do the same thing I like that we were the trend setters.
This was at the Geyser basin. The pictures we took don't do it justice cause it was just so beautiful. This was really nice because the stem would hit use and then we would get a cool breeze so we never got to hot or cold.
This is one of the many Waterfalls in Yellowstone and we thought lets take a picture.
So there are these flower all over in these ponds along the side of the road and I just thought that they were the most beautiful flowers I have ever seen, and in the moment and idea was born......(a possible felony just don't tell the Yellowstone parks patrol.)
I Wanted to take a flower home with me but unfortuantly my arms are to short so I needed some help.
So I asked my tall friend Ilse to pick it for me. If you look in top right corner you can see my holding on to Ilse so she doesn't fall in.
and to the Victor-ia goes the spoils.
So I had never been to Old Faithful and I really wanted to see it so when it went off I said to Court will you take a quick picture of me and the not so faithful Old Faithful. Both Ilse and I really wanted to see it so we drove there hoping to see it and just our luck by the time we got there it had just gone off so we waited the hour and an half that it takes now so that we could see it. I didn't get to see the person put the exlax in it to make it go off though, Maybe that's why is not regular anymore.
We went to this really beautiful Place called artist Point and it was breath takingly beautiful so we asked some one to take a picture of us here.
Now I am not a photographer but I just thought that those of you who are and most espessally Jess would really like this picture that I took of the waterfall at artist point.
Sadly every Trip to Yellowstone must come to and end so this is how we said goodbye. (it was really unfortunate because Victoria's bladder struck again. I really had to go to the bathroom bad when we took this picture good thing we were close to a bathroom however it took forever to find one that was open.)
So we all had I travel Buddy (they told me I needed to bring on I really don't have one but I was told to bring one any way) but this is Courtney's and I took this picture because Courtney and her Monkey are listening to the song "Me and My Monkey" Got to love Robbie Williams Right Shell?

Day 3
Oh No Ilse and I got caught in the two seater out house!!!
That is where Court's Cabing is located on White's Acre.
This is Court's Cabin and her Grandma who is the sweetest lady ever. I love how it looks like a real Cabin.
Before we left we went to L-iner with Courtney's Grandma and had really good bugers. Dosn't it look like we like each other well it should because I had so much fun with Courtney and Ilse I can't even telly you how much fun we had.
Courtney and Ilse Travel buddies.
aww! cute Sleepy Ilse.okay so we got a little bord on the ride home so we took pictures of our food.
and.....
of my ipod funny huh good music though.
And Finally we Mad it home welcome to Utah.

I'm Back

2008-08-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

Sorry Its been a while but I haven't had anything new to say but I will soon. I will be posting updates on the job front and school updates and my trip highlights soon so don't think you have been forgotten about my blog, "So keep your eyes on the horizon."(Pirates of the Caribbean at Worlds End, William Turner)

Big Life News!!!!

2008-07-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

So as some of you may know or surmise I just recently lost my job and am currently looking for a new one. If you here of some thing please let me know.

Re Design!!!!

2008-07-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

To Start I have the greatest sister in the whole world. It may sound like a I'm just saying this or brown nosing my sister but I'm not. Ali is the most talented graphic designer I have ever meet. No technically I never really met Ali or I just don't remember it cause I was a baby but I'm getting off the track. For those of you who know Ali and have seen her handy work in the world of graphic design you know that I'm not exaggerating she really is very talented. If you don't know Ali this new design for my blog is her handy work. So here is the Story, and sorry to mom I'm gonna stroke Ali's ego just a little bit right now. Every day one of the first things I do is check everybody's blog Michelle, Ali, Eric and Shelly, Anna, Emily, and Aria's well yesterday as I check Ali's blog he post said something to the effect of she was changing her blog location from live journal to blogger or blogspot I can't remember which it was. so I click on the link that she posted to her new blog and it was very Ali so If you would like to see it Her is the link Ali's Truth's, Universally Acknowledged So Seriously it's so cool!!! huh? So after I saw her blog being the little sister that I am wanted one not just like it but equally as cool, So I left a comment on her blog telling her how much I liked it but also that I want one. Now I don't know if this was because it was my birthday or if Ali just got board yesterday either way yesterday shortly after I got home from work Ali had maid and emailed this to me with the instructions of how to post it to my blog. She told me that she had set me an e-mail that I would love I thought that it was the the 20 free font e-mail that she sent me earlier in the day but so I didn't check my e-mail until later and once I did one I was taken back because this is so perfect for me and two I couldn't believe that she did that all in one day because to me that looked like it would have taken like years or at least day's to do be cause it's so cool!!!! Anyway after I opened it she helped me put all the information in to the the links or html code in the the code for the original blog. but seriously this is so friggen fantastic!!!!! Any who I Hope you all love it as much as I do!!! and...........

Thank you Ali!!!!!!

Birthday Week!!!!

2008-07-14T07:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Shelly!!!!

I wish you only the very best for you next 30 years

Here is a Bouquet of Sunflowers for you

Shelly I love you so much Happy Birthday!!!

Love,
V

Bastille Day

2008-07-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Bastille Day!!!!!

Party today July 14th at my house
French food starts at 8:30
Movie Starts at 9:00

The Scarlet Pimpernel

Starring: Anthony Andrews, Jane Seymour, Ian McKellen

Former Friends part 2

2008-07-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

So this is the follow up to the original Former Friends post.

I was unable to attend Courtney's birthday celebration after all and both Ilse and Courtney understood and didn't hold it against me for not coming. Anyway so the real reason of this is that I had a incident in the shower yesterday morning before I continue I need you all to know that I am fine, so as I was drying off yesterday I got a little dizzy and passed out. I think I bumped my head on the edge of the glass, and hit my arm on the hand held sprayer, at least I assume this is what happened when I came to I was on the floor my arm was on the tiles where my shampoo was may other hand on the floor with my towel wrapped around it, and later I found that I have bump on a straight line down my right eye up to my hair line. Needless to say it really freaked me out so I called my mom and we decided that it was best that I stay home today just to be safe. So when I told Courtney and Ilse that I was unable to come the were fine once I told them why and they just wanted me to make sure I was fine, so they were very kind and in fact Courtney called later to check up on me which I thought was very kind. Mom and I talked about it and figured that I passed out from a potassium deficiency because I am on a drug that is know to lower your potassium and Mom knew that Grandma Darlin had been known to pass out do to low potassium so mom quickly brought me a banana and told me that I should eat at least one a day. So other than a constant feeling of constant nausea I felt fine for the rest of the day. No Dizzy spells no more passing out. it was a little frightening incident none the less. as off today I am feeling just fine so no worries.

Former Friends

2008-07-04T22:38:00.000-07:00

So for you who read my blog cause of it's entertainment factor well this entry will not be quite so entertaining, well unless you find my friendship drama entertaining. I should preface that I am not mad at Courtney or Ilse and they are still my very dear friends.

So it all started with my two very very very dear friends Courtney and Ilse and a very late birthday celebration. Any way Ilse and I have been planning Courtney's be-lated birthday. Well Ilse while trying to reconcile or work out some issues she had with my former friend Emma (I'm not mad at Ilse by any stretch of the imagination in fact I'm proud of her for trying to work things out with Emma.) Invited her to Courtney's Birthday, which I'm okay with I mean I personally don't get along with Emma but Courtney does and it being her birthday she should have who she wants there.

So the plan was to Take Courtney to her favorite restaurant and come back to my house to play game's and watch a movie, well at least that was the plan until this morning, but I'm getting ahead of myself so let be back up a little bit. So yesterday Emma asks Ilse if she could bring her boyfriend. Well Ilse told her she needed to make sure it was okay with her. So Courtney said that she needed to check with us. Well since Ilse and I were planning it I think it's common courtesy to check with all the people in charge off planning it well she didn't check with me I gave her till this after noon and she never did so I told her that I wasn't sure if it was a good idea for her to bring her boyfriend because it was just going to be 4 girls and him, also that it was Courtney's party and none of us really know him which didn't think was the best idea to play meet the boyfriend at some ones birthday, and lastly I didn't feel comfortable having some one I don't know at my house. Well she told me that Courtney was okay with it, which I already knew, but she didn't even address my concerns. So I decided to take back my offer of my house as the party place, because my concerns are not important to Emma. So now the plan is to go to the restaurant and then to a park for games and Emma's boyfriend is still coming.

Sometimes I feel like Emma is really out to make my life miserable so now I think this is really the end of me and Emma after Courtney's thing I'm not gonna be able to be around Emma ever again.

So it may sound like I'm overreacting and I might be but I think that if you knew everything that I have been through with her you might not think I overreacting that much.

On a much Happier note now that I am getting around to putting it on my blog I have a very very very beautiful niece Adeline Joy Bennion born June 11, 2008 and she is just the tiniest little girl I have ever seen so good going Jess and Michelle you do good work!!!!! I have a picture of her and me but I'm waiting to post it because I have red eye's so I look like a demon and there will be no demons around my little niece.

On a funny not my little Nephew Walker had an accident at the park and I guess his teeth went through his lip and so he had to get 6 stitches to fix it and he got like 10 shots in his mouth and didn't cry at all but he I guess was very happy to get some shots cause he didn't get any at his last visit to see Dr. Berry (Dr. Raspberry as they like to call him) and he really wanted one. This little Walker boy is one tough kid tougher than his auntie Victoria who still at 22 can't handle getting a shot so way to go Walker boy auntie V is very proud of you.

Google Search

2008-06-10T16:11:00.000-07:00

So I was playing around on the internet and I did a google search for Breaking Dawn and this is what Came up under the image portions of the th search.

This one was my least favorite it seems to much like "New Moon" to me.

This one is okay I like it better than the first but I look it and is just looks like "Unbreakable" the movie

This was my Favorite but sadly it is not the cover of "Breaking Dawn" not enough red I guess.

Breaking Dawn sneek peek

2008-05-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

Okay so this is from the Entertainment weekly website it's a preview of the first chapter of Breaking Dawn now It's not the whole first chapter because that wont be released until end of July or August 1st but this was good anyway. Enjoy!!!!

"1. ENGAGED

NO ONE IS STARING AT YOU, I promised myself. No one is staring at you. No one is staring at you.

But, because I couldn't lie convincingly even to myself, I had to check.

As I sat waiting for one of the three traffic lights in town to turn green, I peeked to the right — in her minivan, Mrs. Weber had turned her whole torso in my direction. Her eyes bored into mine, and I flinched back, wondering why she didn't drop her gaze or look ashamed. It was still considered rude to stare at people, wasn't it? Didn't that apply to me anymore?

Then I remembered that these windows were so darkly tinted that she probably had no idea if it was even me in here, let alone that I'd caught her looking. I tried to take some comfort in the fact that she wasn't really staring at me, just the car.

My car. Sigh.

I glanced to the left and groaned. Two pedestrians were frozen on the sidewalk, missing their chance to cross as they stared. Behind them, Mr. Marshall was gawking through the plate glass window of his little souvenir shop. At least he didn't have his nose pressed up against the glass. Yet.

The light turned green and, in my hurry to escape, I stomped on the gas pedal without thinking — the normal way I would have punched it to get my ancient Chevy truck moving.

Engine snarling like a hunting panther, the car jolted forward so fast that my body slammed into the black leather seat and my stomach flattened against my spine.

''Arg!'' I gasped as I fumbled for the brake. Keeping my head, I merely tapped the pedal. The car lurched to an absolute standstill anyway.

I couldn't bear to look around at the reaction. If there had been any doubt as to who was driving this car before, it was gone now. With the toe of my shoe, I gently nudged the gas pedal down one half millimeter, and the car shot forward again.

I managed to reach my goal, the gas station. If I hadn't been running on vapors, I wouldn't have come into town at all. I was going without a lot of things these days, like Pop-Tarts and shoelaces, to avoid spending time in public.

Moving as if I were in a race, I got the hatch open, the cap off, the card scanned, and the nozzle in the tank within seconds. Of course, there was nothing I could do to make the numbers on the gauge pick up the pace. They ticked by sluggishly, almost as if they were doing it just to annoy me.

It wasn't bright out — a typically drizzly day in Forks, Washington — but I still felt like a spotlight was trained on me, drawing attention to the delicate ring on my left hand. At times like this, sensing the eyes on my back, it felt as if the ring were pulsing like a neon sign: Look at me, look at me.

It was stupid to be so self-conscious, and I knew that. Besides my dad and mom, did it really matter what people were saying about my engagement? About my new car? About my mysterious acceptance into an Ivy League college? About the shiny black credit card that felt red-hot in my back pocket right now?

''Yeah, who cares what they think,'' I muttered under my breath.

Tag I'm It!

2008-05-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

I hate these so don't anyone tag me this is the only one I will do!!!!!
Lucky you Anna ;)

Four Jobs I've had:
1. Special Ops Paint Ball-Accountant
2. Moran Eye Center- Associate Accountant
3. Union- Accounting Clerk and Customer Service Rep
4. Colliers Commerce- Accounting Clerk

Four Movies I've watched more than once:
1. Grease
2. Sydney White
3. Sweeney Todd
4. Rocky Horror Picture Show

Four Places I Have Lived:
1. South East Corner of the South East Bedroom
2. Down Stairs Make Shift Bedroom
3. South West Corner of the South East Bedroom
4. East side of the South East Bedroom

Four TV Shows I watch:
1. Brothers and Sisters
2. Desperate Housewives
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Moonlight

Four Places I've been:
1. California
2. Washington (the state)
3. Illinois
4. Texas

Four People Who Email Me Regularly:
1. UPS
2. Cindy
3. Brad
4. Sallie Mae

Four of My Favorite Foods:
1. Mom's Mac and Cheese
2. Mom's Continental Chicken
3. Mom's Romops
4. Sweet and Sour Chicken at Pei Wei

Four Places I'd Like to Visit:
1. Wester Europe (France, Italy, Germany, Spain)
2. England
3. Washington D.C.
4. Mane

Four Things I'm Looking Forward to This Year:
1. Adeline Joy
2. Cleetus ;)
3. Breaking Dawn
4. Twilight the movie

Twilight News oo la la!!!

2008-05-08T13:54:00.000-07:00

Here is the Twilight trailer and it looks good I just can't wait!!

Twilight in HD

Here is the movie poster as well I like it.

Hot Hot Boyz! part 2

2008-05-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

Doesn't he look good here. is Defiantly P.H.A.T.

Hot Hot Boyz!

2008-05-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

Okay this is a clip of one of my favorite parts of Moonlight on Friday Nights at 8:00pm on CBS this is where Mick turns or more accurately turned back in to a Vampire and I think this is hot. Ali thinks I'm strange but what else is new.

Enjoy!!!!!

Vocabulary Words

2008-04-29T15:59:00.000-07:00

One of my biggest pet peeve's is when people insist that they are right after you prove them wrong because they were trying to prove you wrong. Today at work one of my co-workers was telling me a story and I was joking around with them and told them that what was done in the story was considered Thievery. Now two of my co-workers insisted that thievery was not at word and wanted to prove me wrong and so they looked it up right then on the internet and low and behold it is a word and noun to be exact. Anyway after discovering that I was right they insisted that I was using the word incorrectly even though one of the sentences listed with the definitions was very similar to the one I said, and that made me mad so I had to vent!!! I feel better now

Thievery - Is the act or practice or an instance of stealing (As Defined by Merriam Webster)

Now I am extremely surprised by the number of people who think this is not a real word. So this is the vocabulary word for today:

Thievery

Jane Austen Heroine

2008-04-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

So I took the Jane Austen Heroine Quiz and discovered that I was exactly who I thought I would be surprise surprise But I am Marianne Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! You are impulsive, romantic, impatient, and perhaps a bit too brutally honest. You enjoy romantic poetry and novels, and play the pianoforte beautifully. To boot, your singing voice is captivating. You feel deeply, and love passionately. Now besides the play the pianoforte beautifully I would agree to this one completely.

Who are you I am very curious so let me know.

Take the Quiz here!

12 Apostles Song

2008-04-21T14:05:00.001-07:00

Okay all so this is pretty funny and clean. I know it's a first for me to put a video that is okay for all ages on my blog but seriously this is good.

Hillary Clinton Spoof on Sarah Silverman and Jimmy Kimmel

2008-04-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

This one is funny as well enjoy!!!

Jimmy Kimmel's

2008-04-17T14:14:00.001-07:00

Okay s this is Jimmy Kimmel's Reply to Sarah Silverman's video but I thought this one was funnier than the first one. I hope you all enjoy this but again it's just a little crude. Look at all the stars they got to perform in this one I just love it!!!!!

Cool things

2008-04-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who watched the video I hope you enjoyed it. I really want to get Jimmy Kimmel's response to that video but for some reason I can't seem to get it on I'll keep trying but If I can't get it to show up I'll post a link to it.

Here are some resent iGoogle Treasures.

Now don't be a prude with this Picture!!! I love these. If you stair at this like you would a magic eye image the text will also pop out but really if it takes you a while to see the words get your eyes checked.

You may be a redneck if you ever used a toilet brush as a back scratcher.

This is a sign that you've had to much to drink!
Message in a Bottle! ;)

If you don't see the Dolphins you have a dirty mind!!!!!

who's Mad? I think they both are

Back away from the image a squint and they Switch I like this one.

Sarah Silverman

2008-04-16T09:21:00.001-07:00

So Shelly showed this video to me while she was in town and I couldn't stop laughing but while you watch it watch Matt Damon's face it's totally funny. If you are easily offended don't watch because it is a little crude this but I think it is to funny not to post!!! Enjoy all!!!

Slow Beginings

2008-03-31T21:45:00.000-07:00

My biggest pet peeve is books with slow beginnings. Now I borrowed this book from my friend well actually Ali's friend it's called "Gathering Blue" by Lois Lowry and it has a very slow beginning. I wish you could just skip past the intro stuff and get straight to the action. For example In Harry Potter any time he spent at the Dursley's was boring. In any of the Twilight books If Bella and Edward aren't together was hard for me to read now if Jacob is there it I'm not boring but not as exciting as Edward but close. In "The DaVinci Code" I was board until Robert realized that he was a suspect that the book got interesting. I am glad that I finally or at least I think I'm past the boring introduction part of the book but only time will tell.

This book is supposedly the sequel to "The Giver" Which is high up on my Top ten book list. Speaking of my top ten book list it is as follows.

1. Eclipse By Stephenie Meyer
2. Twilight By Stephenie Meyer
3. New Moon By Stephenie Meyer (This is a new development)
4. The Giver By Lois Lowry
5. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban By JK Rowling
6. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince By JK Rowling
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows By JK Rowling
8. Pride and Prescience By Carrie Bebris
9. The DaVinci Code By Dan Brown
10. North By Northanger By Carrie Bebris

It does surprise me that there at more than one I have a top ten book list and two that I it was hard to pick just 10 books because as most of you know I hate reading or I guess more accuately I used to hate reading but apparently it is a hidden passion of mine however I am a very very picky reader because if the slow beginning are to slow I will give up.

I hope you all enjoy my book list because I really enjoy it or should I enjoy each and every book on that list multiple times.

What's Wrong With This Picture???

2008-03-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

Seriously what's wrong here??? I know do you??? This is why I love iGoogle!!!! Enjoy all.

Cool Picture

2008-03-27T17:38:00.000-07:00

Okay so I use igoogle and I have it customized and one thing that I have on there is an optical Illusion every time I go to or refresh that page Well this one just jumped out at me as frickin' cool!!!!! enjoy.

Sicky

2008-03-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

I have been sick all week and I'm sick of it I want to be better NOW!!!!!!!!

A New Thing

2008-03-02T21:26:00.000-08:00

Okay so I finally decided to start the whole blogging thing but I will warn you that I will not be very consistent because that is not me.

So to catch you all up on me I am finishing my semester at ITT Tech and then I'll be starting a new one without a break sucky huh? however that's life. For those of you who don't know I am planning to, once I finish my bachelors Degree int accounting, go back to school in sign language and become a translator. This is obviously a new development but one that I am extremely excited for. I have recently discovered that I have a talent for signing and it is one I want to cultivate.

As most of you know I worked for the University of Utah Moran Eye Center. Well I don't work there any more I quite there because I couldn't stand my boss he to put it lightly was a male chauvinistic pig and a few other things that I could say but I won't because that will not be putting it lightly. One good thing came form working there though I was able to get a better job, better pay, better opportunity, much better boss, and much more relaxed environment. I now work for Special Ops Paintball. I love this place it is a great place to work.

Well that's all for this post I'll keep you all as up to date as I can but for now.......later.