My Angela is pregnant with our first child. We got to hear the heartbeat yesterday at the doctors. Pretty cool.
Estimated due date is May 21st.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
I am ok saying "I don't know"
For those of you who follow Loyd's personal blog or haven't hid his Facebook updates, then you know how hard the whole Prop 8 thing was on him, and how last weekend's conference did little to boost faith in the church hierarchy. Especially Elder Packer's talk. Many, many people, members and non members alike, did not pickup on even the slimmest glimmer of a hint of love or charity from that talk.
I feel so many different emotions and I'm trying to make sense of it all, or at least come to terms with my inability to make sense of it. I often say "You can have all the truth possible but if you're a jerk, it sure doesn't matter". 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
I hear people on both sides of me saying that if I pray about it, I'll get the answer. Both sides testify that God has witnessed to them that what they believe is the truth. It is right. Both sides actively attack the other hoping to win back those lost souls, and make them realize how they are hurting other people...now and for eternity.
I am one to believe that both sides can be right and wrong at the same time. I believe that "truth" is as vast and varied as the color spectrum. And I am also willing to say "I don't know". So, I don't know a lot of things. But what I do know, is that regardless of how "right" you are, that doesn't make your actions or words "right" or good or Christlike. I do not believe the ends justify the means.
I think that people are justified in being hurt by Packer's talk and by other horrible, untrue, and bigoted comments made by other leaders. Whether or not it is "true" that homosexuals do not have a place in God's kingdom - that their actions are an abomination, does not justify treating them less than full humans and children of God and citizens of this country.
And people are justified in believing that homosexuality is immoral. They are allowed to believe that their God does not approve. Nor do I believe that any rituals or specific religious rights should be allowed to those who do not follow the basic guidelines for admittance to that church. I will not step on any religions toes.
Regardless of how hurt or scared people are, they shouldn't react out of their anger or fear. Mocking Elder Packer or making claims regarding his sexuality might get a laugh. Spreading statements that homosexuals are inherently dangerous will not help us truly understand one another. None of it helps or succeeds at opening communication or to soften hearts. Or to heal any wounds.
If anything, pity those that refuse to look at their brothers and sisters as children of God who possess intrinsic value. Sorrow for those who can't let Christ in their live enough to empathize with the hurt and pain of their neighbor. Forgive those that refuse to see good, wholesome people because they are afraid of who they kiss. Don't condemn them because they are afraid of shadows and ghosts that seem so real as they view the world through dark, distorted lenses.
You can not convince any one of the truth. You can only lead them through love and long suffering and gentleness and meekness. Maybe one day we will all lead each other to the ultimate truth - to love one another as we love ourselves.
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
So, I am still at odds with so many things. I respect people's idea of morality. I sympathize with the fear of the unknown or the different. I empathize with the hurt and agony and the loneliness of those who have been rejected by their families, communities, states, and churches. So many people have no one to love them; no one to reach out a hand of friendship and understanding simply because of who they find attractive.
I can't even imagine how it would feel to be barred from Loyd because "mixing" races is going against God's will. I don't care who God has testified to that races shouldn't mix. I don't believe that, so why should I live like that?
So, I try to forgive people for their thoughtless comments and their ruthless actions. I try to, so that I won't be bitter or angry or hopeless. It is all I can do to survive until I finally do have all the answers.
I feel so many different emotions and I'm trying to make sense of it all, or at least come to terms with my inability to make sense of it. I often say "You can have all the truth possible but if you're a jerk, it sure doesn't matter". 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
I hear people on both sides of me saying that if I pray about it, I'll get the answer. Both sides testify that God has witnessed to them that what they believe is the truth. It is right. Both sides actively attack the other hoping to win back those lost souls, and make them realize how they are hurting other people...now and for eternity.
I am one to believe that both sides can be right and wrong at the same time. I believe that "truth" is as vast and varied as the color spectrum. And I am also willing to say "I don't know". So, I don't know a lot of things. But what I do know, is that regardless of how "right" you are, that doesn't make your actions or words "right" or good or Christlike. I do not believe the ends justify the means.
I think that people are justified in being hurt by Packer's talk and by other horrible, untrue, and bigoted comments made by other leaders. Whether or not it is "true" that homosexuals do not have a place in God's kingdom - that their actions are an abomination, does not justify treating them less than full humans and children of God and citizens of this country.
And people are justified in believing that homosexuality is immoral. They are allowed to believe that their God does not approve. Nor do I believe that any rituals or specific religious rights should be allowed to those who do not follow the basic guidelines for admittance to that church. I will not step on any religions toes.
Regardless of how hurt or scared people are, they shouldn't react out of their anger or fear. Mocking Elder Packer or making claims regarding his sexuality might get a laugh. Spreading statements that homosexuals are inherently dangerous will not help us truly understand one another. None of it helps or succeeds at opening communication or to soften hearts. Or to heal any wounds.
If anything, pity those that refuse to look at their brothers and sisters as children of God who possess intrinsic value. Sorrow for those who can't let Christ in their live enough to empathize with the hurt and pain of their neighbor. Forgive those that refuse to see good, wholesome people because they are afraid of who they kiss. Don't condemn them because they are afraid of shadows and ghosts that seem so real as they view the world through dark, distorted lenses.
You can not convince any one of the truth. You can only lead them through love and long suffering and gentleness and meekness. Maybe one day we will all lead each other to the ultimate truth - to love one another as we love ourselves.
Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.
So, I am still at odds with so many things. I respect people's idea of morality. I sympathize with the fear of the unknown or the different. I empathize with the hurt and agony and the loneliness of those who have been rejected by their families, communities, states, and churches. So many people have no one to love them; no one to reach out a hand of friendship and understanding simply because of who they find attractive.
I can't even imagine how it would feel to be barred from Loyd because "mixing" races is going against God's will. I don't care who God has testified to that races shouldn't mix. I don't believe that, so why should I live like that?
So, I try to forgive people for their thoughtless comments and their ruthless actions. I try to, so that I won't be bitter or angry or hopeless. It is all I can do to survive until I finally do have all the answers.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Haunted
Loyd and I spent 2 nights in Las Vegas relaxing by the pool, sleeping late, and just being lazy before returning home after our vacation. We walked around the Strip and had a great time looking at all the lights, attractions, cat fights, and all the new buildings. (The last time I was there was about 6 or so years ago.)
On the first night we were walking the strip, and we came across a homeless guy sitting on one of the bridges. I saw 3 homeless guys the whole time we were there. I believe Las Vegas wants "their ugliness" hidden away. Well this guy looked like a kid - maybe 18...20 max. He was sitting there so forgotten and discarded. He was dirty and looked so tired and worn out slouched against the fencing. His sandy blond hair was dull with grime and a dusty film covered his tan skin. Everyone walked by without a glance, ignoring the reminder of sorrow and pain that was marring their bright, glittering opulence and decadence.
Something about him grabbed my heart. We walked by and I couldn't look away from him. I looked back and saw him looking at a passing group that had made a disparaging comment about his presence. The way he looked up at them...it was hopeless and ... apologetic. I said to Loyd that we should have given him something. We went back up the escalator and I gave him some money. He looked me right in the eye and said thank you in a soft, raspy voice.
I am still haunted by his eyes. There was an innocence and softness in his clear, light green eyes. They were such sweet eyes. I wanted to hug him and take away his sorrow! I wanted to find him a home...ANYTHING to make his life better! But what could I do except give him some money? I don't know what I could have done. And I can't stop thinking what I could have done for him!
I started crying right there. It took a bit to move him to the back of my mind. But I moved on...went back to my hotel room, had a hot shower, was held in the arms of my love, surrounded by love throughout the night (and my whole life). Now I am home; secure and safe and well fed...and I am haunted by that boy on the bridge.
I know you weren't there; didn't see him...but offer up prayers and thoughts for him and the millions of others like him.
On the first night we were walking the strip, and we came across a homeless guy sitting on one of the bridges. I saw 3 homeless guys the whole time we were there. I believe Las Vegas wants "their ugliness" hidden away. Well this guy looked like a kid - maybe 18...20 max. He was sitting there so forgotten and discarded. He was dirty and looked so tired and worn out slouched against the fencing. His sandy blond hair was dull with grime and a dusty film covered his tan skin. Everyone walked by without a glance, ignoring the reminder of sorrow and pain that was marring their bright, glittering opulence and decadence.
Something about him grabbed my heart. We walked by and I couldn't look away from him. I looked back and saw him looking at a passing group that had made a disparaging comment about his presence. The way he looked up at them...it was hopeless and ... apologetic. I said to Loyd that we should have given him something. We went back up the escalator and I gave him some money. He looked me right in the eye and said thank you in a soft, raspy voice.
I am still haunted by his eyes. There was an innocence and softness in his clear, light green eyes. They were such sweet eyes. I wanted to hug him and take away his sorrow! I wanted to find him a home...ANYTHING to make his life better! But what could I do except give him some money? I don't know what I could have done. And I can't stop thinking what I could have done for him!
I started crying right there. It took a bit to move him to the back of my mind. But I moved on...went back to my hotel room, had a hot shower, was held in the arms of my love, surrounded by love throughout the night (and my whole life). Now I am home; secure and safe and well fed...and I am haunted by that boy on the bridge.
I know you weren't there; didn't see him...but offer up prayers and thoughts for him and the millions of others like him.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Sequoia National Park
Angela and I just got back from a great camping trip in Sequoia National Park with my brother's family and extended family. I'm too lazy to pick out select photos from the trip, so here are all 212 of them. If you click the slideshow it will take you to an album for easier viewing.
You can also see some of the panoramic photos I shot on my blog.
Thanks to my brother and sister-in-law for inviting us!
You can also see some of the panoramic photos I shot on my blog.
Thanks to my brother and sister-in-law for inviting us!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Engagement video
We were recently notified of a discovery of a short little video that was made when our engagement photos were taken. Short, but sweet.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Great Day in SoCal!
The beach is always a wonderful place to spend time. Even when it is overcast and far to cold to brave the waters, it is always a soothing experience. (However, the drive home might undo all those soothed nerves.) But Friday, June 18th was a beach day on steroids.
About an hour after we arrived we watched dolphins swimming in the distance. They were just beyond the break. Close enough to be near the surfers. We mainly saw their fins, but every once in a while one would jump out of the water and you could see its head and body.
A few hours after the dolphins swam off, a crowd was forming on the beach looking at the water. And then I noticed a large brown something with fins rolling onto the beach. Turns out it was a seal. It wasn't dead and didn't look to be hurt (it wasn't bleeding). So we joined the crowd and took pictures. A few times the seal sat up and waddled further onto dry sand.
It just looked around assessing the situation, then took a power nap. I suppose it was just resting because a few hours later, long after the crowd had grown bored with a sleeping seal, it waddled back into the water and swam away.
While the seal was making his departure, the dolphins returned. This time they put on a little show for the admiring crowd. We saw them surfing the waves. We could see two or three dolphins clearly in the wave riding it. Once we saw them jump out of the wave. To bad didn't have my camera with me. My phone couldn't capture anything that far out.
It was so fun seeing these animals in the wild. Much better than a zoo or aquarium, but also a little freaky. No telling what could swim up next to you!
About an hour after we arrived we watched dolphins swimming in the distance. They were just beyond the break. Close enough to be near the surfers. We mainly saw their fins, but every once in a while one would jump out of the water and you could see its head and body.
A few hours after the dolphins swam off, a crowd was forming on the beach looking at the water. And then I noticed a large brown something with fins rolling onto the beach. Turns out it was a seal. It wasn't dead and didn't look to be hurt (it wasn't bleeding). So we joined the crowd and took pictures. A few times the seal sat up and waddled further onto dry sand.
It just looked around assessing the situation, then took a power nap. I suppose it was just resting because a few hours later, long after the crowd had grown bored with a sleeping seal, it waddled back into the water and swam away.
While the seal was making his departure, the dolphins returned. This time they put on a little show for the admiring crowd. We saw them surfing the waves. We could see two or three dolphins clearly in the wave riding it. Once we saw them jump out of the wave. To bad didn't have my camera with me. My phone couldn't capture anything that far out.
It was so fun seeing these animals in the wild. Much better than a zoo or aquarium, but also a little freaky. No telling what could swim up next to you!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Some recent photos
Here are some recent photos from some of our adventures this year. Also, if you haven't yet, be sure to send us some of your memories from our wedding day here.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Wedding Journal
I need your help!
I am putting together a journal about Loyd and my wedding day - June 19th. I want the experiences, memories, thoughts, feelings, etc from all those in attendance. If you wanted to be in attendance but couldn't make it, add that! I want as much information about that day as possible.
We had a friend who ended up being lost for an hour or so with grumpy kids in tow, and ended up not being able to find the reception. I want that story!
Somebody about kill themselves preparing for our day? Write it down for us, PLEASE!
It doesn't have to be about Loyd and Me, but about whatever you remember about that day. Reunions? kids getting dirty and thrashing their clothing...what do your kids remember about that day?
So yeah, I really need all of your help!
Email it to me or post it here.
I am putting together a journal about Loyd and my wedding day - June 19th. I want the experiences, memories, thoughts, feelings, etc from all those in attendance. If you wanted to be in attendance but couldn't make it, add that! I want as much information about that day as possible.
We had a friend who ended up being lost for an hour or so with grumpy kids in tow, and ended up not being able to find the reception. I want that story!
Somebody about kill themselves preparing for our day? Write it down for us, PLEASE!
It doesn't have to be about Loyd and Me, but about whatever you remember about that day. Reunions? kids getting dirty and thrashing their clothing...what do your kids remember about that day?
So yeah, I really need all of your help!
Email it to me or post it here.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
A Late Honeymoon
Last week Ang and I set off on a belated honeymoon in Florida. Our trip included a cruise to the Bahamas, the Blue Man Group in Orlando, and a day at EPCOT. Unfortunately the weather was a bit chilly during most of the trip and we only had one day of good sun--just enough for me to get slightly burnt.
Just as it started to warm up in Florida, we flew back to southern California for a forecasted week of pouring rain and lower 40s temperatures.
Here are some photos from our vacation:
Just as it started to warm up in Florida, we flew back to southern California for a forecasted week of pouring rain and lower 40s temperatures.
Here are some photos from our vacation:
Claremont, California
Loyd and I made our move from Provo, Utah to Claremont, California about...1 1/2 weeks ago. We left Provo at about 5:30am and pulled into our apartment complex in Claremont at about 3pm. We rented a 16 ft Penske truck with a car tow. Yeah, it was a bit stressful driving with all our belongings and our car and a big fattie truck. But we made it.
Loyd's friends here in Claremont helped us unload our truck. They were great. We even had the little kids helping us. It took maybe 20 minutes to get everything up to our apartment. I don't even want to think how long it would have taken with just me and Loyd.
For the next 2-3 days we unpacked and tried to get everything organized. Then Loyd got sick. Now...we're about unpacked and organized. It might take another month or so to be completely finished :)I can not wait to not be moving anymore...or at least have less stuff to have to move.
When we got here the temperature was in the mid 70's, now it is high 40's and raining. Apparently we've some kind of noreasterly affect. Yeah, i don't know.
The college campus is nice. I love walking around the neighborhood looking at all the amazing houses. I'll get some photos for sure. I walk around and say over and again "I could love in that house. I could live in that house. I could live in that house." Hahaha.
The ward seems really nice as well. It's not so large that you feel like you get lost, but not so small that each member has 3 callings. And its nice that the Bishop was the 2nd councilor in Loyd's singles ward out here. It nice to already have a good relationship with the bishop.
I miss my family in Utah and also the comfort of being in the same place for 7 years...but...I am excited to make new friends. Now, its time to get a job.
Loyd's friends here in Claremont helped us unload our truck. They were great. We even had the little kids helping us. It took maybe 20 minutes to get everything up to our apartment. I don't even want to think how long it would have taken with just me and Loyd.
For the next 2-3 days we unpacked and tried to get everything organized. Then Loyd got sick. Now...we're about unpacked and organized. It might take another month or so to be completely finished :)I can not wait to not be moving anymore...or at least have less stuff to have to move.
When we got here the temperature was in the mid 70's, now it is high 40's and raining. Apparently we've some kind of noreasterly affect. Yeah, i don't know.
The college campus is nice. I love walking around the neighborhood looking at all the amazing houses. I'll get some photos for sure. I walk around and say over and again "I could love in that house. I could live in that house. I could live in that house." Hahaha.
The ward seems really nice as well. It's not so large that you feel like you get lost, but not so small that each member has 3 callings. And its nice that the Bishop was the 2nd councilor in Loyd's singles ward out here. It nice to already have a good relationship with the bishop.
I miss my family in Utah and also the comfort of being in the same place for 7 years...but...I am excited to make new friends. Now, its time to get a job.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
Dec 31st 2009 - Loyd and I had the best New Year's Eve - ever - last night. We ate Mexican food with Jake, Sylvia, Tori, Macy, and Jake's parents, Wayne and Sherri. Then Jake, Sylvia, Loyd and I went to First Night Provo at the Provo Town Center Mall. They had a huge variety of activities to choose from. There were cultural performances, getting your hair done, face painting, sugar sand things, funny photos, make your own music video, a dance party, American Idol, and more!It really was a ton of fun and it was only $5. And at midnight there were fireworks. It was a great time and a great way to ring in the New Year.
Happy New Year!
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