In the News...

U.S. airports expand passenger full-body screening
Ross Kerber BOSTON


BOSTON (Reuters) - Airport officials on Friday showed off new X-ray scanning machines they will use to screen more passengers with full-body imaging as called for by security advocates, a step that has alarmed civil libertarians.
U.S.
The $170,000 machines made by a unit of OSI Systems Inc show guards images of passengers' bodies through their clothes to reveal hidden objects.
Three to be activated on Monday at Boston's Logan International Airport will be the first of 150 the U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials hope to deploy in the next few months using funds from last year's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the stimulus.
The agency aims to have 450 advanced scanners at airports by the end of the year.

to read the rest of this article, visit http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6244C620100305

Here are my qualms with this whole situation.

It is bad enough that it takes a ridiculous amount of time inching forward in line so that all of my personal items can be examined. Then, I have to take 5 minutes taking off shoes, belts, jewelry and dismantling cameras, cell phones and lap tops. THEN, I somehow still manage to make the machine beep, meaning I get to have the fabulous experience of being physically accosted by an over zealous security guard. This happened once in Germany and was the most invasive experience of my existence. Imagine myhorror when, after siad feelage, I was led to a small area of the room that was curtained off. I was more than ready to execute a few self defence moves. As it turns out, the search of my PERSON was complete, but they demanded I open up my lap top for inspection. That's right, of my FILES. Because we all know what murderous capacity my FILES have.

Considering how expensive these new machines are, I can only imagine the more intense queing I will have to do. Which, by the way, I am NOT down for, especially when the end of said que involves ex-ray capacity the likes of which only Superman previously had the privelege of.

Of course, I believe that we want to be as safe as possible on these air plights. But surely the criminal master minds behind these morbid attempts have realised that if they really want to do that sort of thing, armina passenger is not the way to go? Especially with how tight things are getting these days. In short- I think these new machines are invasive, expensive and time consuming excess. You'd never believe the world was in financial crisis.

Movie of the Month

Funny Face- Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire.

I loved this movie. It included everything I thoroughly enjoy- namely Audrey, fashion, classical humor, New York, a little old time dancing, witty dialogue, and it even made me appreciate France. Baby steps.

In short, the charming ambiance of this movie has pushed it into my top ten all time favourites.

We Are The World

I do not take the time to consider my circumstances every morning, as I stretch and yawn, and shudder at the thought of slipping out of my blankets into the chilly air of my apartment. I don't think I've ever, in that moment, covered my mouth in amazement that I not only lie on my very own mattress, but that that mattress is accompanied by a layer of memory foam, pillow cased pillows, a plush comforter and soft throw. I've never rubbed my eyes to check the reality that my head is actually covered by a roof, that my front door has a lock and that when I turn on the bathroom faucet, clean water will run for as long as I want it to.

I don't consider who made my clothes- how much they were paid or how long their work day was. The same goes for various ingredients I use in the food that I eat. I take advantage of the fact that there are books on my shelves that I can- and have the time to- read, and that somehow, through the miracle of technology, I have the world at my fingertips.

I'll occasionally browse tiffany.com and think how fabulous it would be to have that diamond around my neck, and I'll certainly worry about my suede heels when it starts to rain.

There are nights that I have been irritated by how late it is and that I am not yet snuggled deep within my sheets. Regardless, I know that that moment will come, and know with such surety that I could successfully put all of my earthly possessions on the fact.

And when I close my eyes for the final time that day, I can be 99.99% sure of the fact that in a few short hours they will open again and I will be where I left myself, undisturbed, with a day of comfort and safety ahead.

Maybe you don't browse tiffany's. But that you most inevitably can relate to my temperament is the disaster of human relations and global economic imbalance.

I went to sleep one night pondering Haiti, being satisfied with the manner in which America at least had responded. Celebrity telethons, charity music records, every high school bake sale, country club benefits, ward fundraisers, substantial personal contributions by every member of the elite in and out of Hollywood. Teams of reality and drama show actors along with r&b singers flew in to clean up the mess. John Travolta flew. A natural disaster struck and we saved the day.

I finally drifted out of consciousness and into an experience I can only describe as exhausting. In a dream, I was taken from country to country, thrown into the midst of their problems and then yanked to another. I watched in horror as I witnessed disaster- both natural and manmade. I saw the faces, faces, faces, all night long until I awoke, a little shaken, and very guilt ridden. Surely these issues did not exist? Nothing I had seen could ever be that real. world relief organizations must be mediating these hardships?

It took an earthquake for people to realize Haiti existed. Do we really even contemplate the poverty they lived with before this disaster? I admire our A-listers for speaking up and leading the way in humanitarian service. But if they so clearly have the power to raise multi- millions in one three hour telethon, why is this not at least a monthly effort? What about the other suffering third world nations? It's all well and good for us to prick up our ears and take notice of one small country. But what about the other countries? Countries we have drained of their resources and continue to exploit in the name of our western comfort. Will it take an earthquake before we make conscious efforts to give aide? What needs to happen to Chad before 35 solo artists come together to record a single for them?

What have you done today that could benefit someone with social and economical conditions that are the opposite of yours? What will it take for you to start now to make a difference? I know that the chances of the individual changing the face of a nation are small- I've never felt smaller in my life. But is that an excuse for doing nothing?

I believe there will come a day when I am responsible for something much bigger than me. I will be responsible for life. I will have the ability to form and direct whole solar systems of opportunity, risks and hope. What use is that knowledge if I never get any practice? I invite you to do something about your world: I invite you to practice. Get involved: learn about your earth, your brothers and sisters, and your own potential.

http://www.un.org/News/ossg/sg/stories/articleFull.asp?TID=32&Type=Article

http://www.helium.com/knowledge/156153-taking-concrete-actions-to-help-the-third-world

Calling My British Friends!

I need you all to update me on common British sayings and words please. Also tell me ones of old. Thanks!

Funny At Work...

DISCLAIMER- I am probably Miley's definition of an anti-fan. I do not like her. However, for some reason her annoying "Party in the USA" song happened to somehow be playing from my computer. Garrett turns to me and says:

"Is that how your college experience is? A Party in the USA?"

Nice.

What I'm Listening to

Half of My Heart - John Mayer. Let it be known that, regardless of his appalling way with the media, John Mayer is a musical genius. I find him... organic.

Possibility - Lykke Li

Quelqu'un M'a Dit - Carla Bruni (you all know how I love the French)

Us - Regina Spektor

In the News...

Dutch cabinet collapses in dispute over Afghanistan

Dutch forces have been in Uruzgan since 2006 The Dutch government has collapsed over disagreements within the governing coalition on extending troop deployments in Afghanistan. After marathon talks, Christian Democratic Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende announced that the Labour Party was quitting the government. He offered his government's resignation to Queen Beatrix in a telephone call.

Picture of the Day

Valentine Season

Valentine's Day is almost here and I am actually making an effort this year! I know. I'm moving up in the world and my enthusiasm is just oozing. The above is my Valentine to you all. I love you, blog fans! Feel free to shower me with Valentines. I may even blog about it!

Sisterly Pride

Please note my little brother Logan, the star of a very public poster situation. He's a celebrity. And I love him.

N O M O R E F A S T F O O D

Seriously. I don't care if it's the cheapest option or the fastest option or if it looks so good on that poster. There will be no more fast food.

Goodbye January

January has been, on the whole, mild. The weather has been more like it ought to be in April, to be frank, meanwhile in Germany the above happens. My mother blogged (I am rubbing off on her I suppose) about the beautiful snow over there. I could blog about the nasty dirty slush in Utah, but I will refrain for the sake of everyone's illusions. To be fair to our creator, I will tell you that the weather we have been having is gorgeous- clear blue skies, warm breezes etc. I feel like a criminal saying it, but every once in a while I secretly give global warming a teensy thumbs up. No I don't! Who said that?! Not me. Global warming bad. Disney says so.

On a serious note: Haiti. Our ward did our part by throwing a bake sale. Which basically meant that we donated money and celebrated such my eating fancy treats. I used the opportunity to use my brand spanking new cupcake tier tray, complete with home-made (from scratch, thank you very much- none of this "add oil and eggs" rubbish) cupcakes, individually decorated. Flavours included chocolate orange, strawberry topped, jam filled, cream filled, chocolate chip, pecan topped, sprinkled, etc. Noteworthy baked treats include the above featured. A special shout out (yes, I am shouting out) goes to Sean Southerland who made HOME MADE ICE CREAM. Consider me officially topped in any sort of home-making. Though I did not congratulate him in person, I was impressed, to say the very least. And hope, if he reads, that he will one day show me how to made ice cream.

I went to the BYU/Utah Basketball game. BYU and Utah, for those of you that do not know, are perhaps the most rivaled schools in the Mountain West Conference. So this game was jam packed and quite a big deal. It was a close game and some fists were even thrown (the fists were, of course, those of the Ute's). Nevertheless, BYU players such as Jimmer Fredette (a personal fave) led us to victory. Of course. I was glad also, for personal reasons, to see the Utes defeated and humiliated. Which is probably not very Christ-like.

A couple of thoughts I had while sitting in the stands:

a) when the opposing team has the ball the crowd would jeer, which struck me as something relatable to the great and spacious building, spoken of by Lehi.

b) once upon a time, just as many people would get together and cheer/ get excited by gladiators killing each other and/or wild animals.

Both of my thoughts were not really entertained by the people I was with, but I really think they have merit, hence my blogging them.

Meanwhile in Frankfurt, Connor eats snow. The number of times I did this as a kid are uncountable- though I was never bold enough to get a bowl and spoon. Does everyone eat snow?

Also, you should know about Logan and Connor and their sportishness. Connor plays on the rugby team and took his very first "business trip" to Brussels to play the international team there. Logan continues to be the star of practically every physical feat at his school, this semester on the Basketball team. I bet he could play for BYU if he wanted...

In other news, We ought to all take a moment to recognize the passing of perhaps one of the greatest writers of the twentieth century. J.D. Salinger passed away this week. I would post a picture but I think he would have seen that as an invasion of privacy. Salinger wrote a number of short stories and the ever unpopular (but ultimately VERY popular) "The Catcher in the Rye". It was the only novel published, after which he retreated to a life of relative solitude. Heaven only knows what treasures are in his New Hampshire home, waiting to NOT be published. The biggest disappointment I have is the nobody ever got a decent interview out of him. But perhaps this is a good thing: too many things are no longer a mystery these days. So. If you haven't already, read "The Catcher in the Rye" or at least Wikipedia it.

Technology Today

The western world is going crazy over this beautiful little piece of equipment. As thin as the screen of a Macbook Air, this product is ridiculously... well, ridiculous! AND I WANT ONE! It has all you could possibly need in a piece of equipment designed to put the world at the tip of your fingers- literally! Everything about the product is touch activated. It's the FUTURE at its most palpable. I was blown away with the laptop, way back when. But THIS makes the lap top look OLD- which in and of itself is incredible to me. I wonder at the possibility that the iPad could ever seem "old" in the future. Suddenly the technological world James Cameron portrayed in Avatar seems incredibly probable!

And this is the end of my nerd-attack excitement for shiny things.

Goal for the Day:

Funny of the Day

Oh, the ways in which I can relate! As I am sick today (sore throat, I sound like a cross between Bette Lynch, a chain smoker (like Bette Lynch) and a lion of the non Disney variety), this cheered me up.

I Slept on a Slope

Last night I sky dove onto my bed and broke it. Yes. I'm a fatty. So last night (and probably for the next few nights at least) I slept on a hill, effectively. Which I am convincing myself isn't too bad considering most hospital beds are like that anyways. It's like I have an orthopedic bed, sans ridiculous price for said bed.

Onto other matters. Yesterday we cooked for the Bishop and his lovely family. Thanks to Martha Jamie Oliver, the Chili was fantastic. We served it with baked potato, salad, guacamole, fresh lime and had Apple dumplings and ice cream.

The highlight of my night was the Bishop's comment that he had heard a lot of good stuff about Hollie's cooking! I am sure you blog fans had something to do with that- so thank you!

Picture of the Day

Funny of the Day

Explaining to co- workers about crumpets...

Ryan: And... how often do you eat thsese things you call "crumpets"?

Martin Luther King jr. Day... A day of Dreams!

Martin Luther King jr. made his mark on the world changing the face of social America and the views of people all over the world. Of course, he should have his own holiday. As is usual with all holidays, I usually take the time to sleep longer than necessary and effectively waste 24 hours wondering what to do with myself. This holiday, however: NOT SO. I officially nominate this to be the best spend holiday ever.

Anna and I slept in until 8am (which is good for us on a school day) and made omlettes and fruit smoothies. We sat at our kitchen table and spied on the neighbors (nothing noteworthy to report) while enjoying a heart breakfast.

Then, after showers etc., we decided to head to Park City for some out-of-provo fun!

Then, after the scenic drive through the canyon, we hopped into the hot tub for a little R&R before dressing fancy and heading to the movies. We decided to see Sherlock Holmes which was, to our surprise, absoluetly fantastic. I was a little dubious about Downey as Sherlock, but WOW he pulled it off wonderfully. Go see the movie.

THEN, on our way out of the theater we saw a poster for AVATAR and thought, why not? Bravo James Cameron, Bravo. Avatar was quite simpley breathtaking. Logan went to see it when I was in Germany and I thought it was funny that he said he wanted to BE one of them- but he was so right. It was phenominal.

Cooking news- because I know you all miss my cooking news- on Sunday we hosted ward Happy notes in our apartment, so I catered the event with baked treats. Thanks to Martha Stewart, I made some great jame filled cupcakes topped with creamy nutella and Pecans. They were well received. Also, this coming Sunday, some friends and I will be cooking for our Bishop and his family! This si very exciting for me. Any recipe ideas are, as usual, welcomed.

Letter of the Day

Singer Kelis was verbally attacked by the PETA, who also sent her a letter condemning her decision to wear fur. Kelis responded...

On wearing fur:

"Btw it’s not just the look of fur. It’s warm as hell and feels glorious, ever rubbed faux fur on your body? Nothing luxurious about that. Then the letter proceeded to name artist and designers who don't wear real fur. Great! More for me! I don't judge them, don't judge me.

"If I started wearing endangered animals like polar bear or orangutan then talk to me. (Which btw for the record I would not - I do believe in the preservation of endangered species) But the minks and chinchilla that quite honestly are rodents and if weren't in the form of a coat I would demand they be put to death anyway are not an issue to me."

On eating meat:

"There is no humane way to kill anything, let me start there. It’s unfortunate but it’s part of life. With that being said, I would eat pterodactyl if you found some and you told me it was meaty and delicious…I eat meat, and in fact my mouth salivates as I type the word meat!"

On how PETA should find a more "worthwhile cause":

"If u want to preach do it about something worthwhile don't waste my time trying to save the dang chipmunk. Find a worthwhile cause like the women being maimed in these Middle Eastern countries. Or female circumcision. Or women's rights here in America, we still get paid less for doing the same jobs as men.

"Quite honestly if you hate the world so much go live in the forest where no one else has to hear you complain about the perfectly good food chain the good Lord created. Everyone has the right to an opinion, and that's mine on that! xoxo

There you have it. I posted this because it is a refreshing take on what Americans believe is important today. Kelis hits the nail on the head when she questions ones priorities- when there is human suffering in the world, poverty, and blatant violence against those HUMAN inhabitants of this world, DROP THE FUR/ MEAT ARGUMENT AND CONCERN YOURSELF WITH YOUR FELLOW MAN! I understand that there are poorly treated animals in the world, neglected animals and endangered species. But at the end of the day, I fully believe that animals are a resource. There are poorly treated humans. There are neglected humans. There are endangered humans. If we can't learn to take care of our own brothers and sisters, how are we going to CREATE our own one day? Just a thought.

Thursday's Child

I am actually a Wednesday's Child- but today is Thursday, and so there you have it.

Some thoughts for you: The UGG. While out with my good friend Matt, conversation turned toward these somewhat "scene" boots. While I have to admit their sheer comfort- as well as the fact that I do indeed (like the rest of the female population here in mountainous Utah) own a pair- Matt and I decided that they should most definitely be considered "out". Matt's somewhat pessimistic viewpoint was surprisingly heated, and stemmed from the idea that Uggs are lazy, sloppy and slobbish- troop around your house all day, but don't even think of wearing them in public: they are not classy, they are not professional and they just don't look like they ought to coincide with the AGE of most of their owners.

My opinion is not quite as adamant: but I will say that 2005-7 seemed to be the years of the Ugg, and while it is now 2010... well, that should be enough of a hint. Moral of the story: Laundry runs in the Uggs = OK. Class, mall, date in the Uggs = not OK.

Other news:

What I'm reading: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde. I was mesmerized by the preface alone, written by Wile himself, wherein he states, amongst other beautifully thought out and composed sentences, "Those who find ugly meanings in beautiful things are corrupt without being charming. This is a fault. Those who find beautiful meanings in beautiful things are the cultivated. For these there is hope." My lovely roommate likes to get to bed early, and so lately I have found myself reading things by the light of my cell phone, huddled under the covers.

This is not something new to me- I grew up with a flashlight under my pillow. Looking back, I'm sure my mother knew I spent too many hours reading under my heavy quilts when I should have been sleeping- but regardless, I always felt so secretive and independent.

Other things I am reading: 1 Nephi (hello January), Genesis, Kontakte!, Ebbitt and Ebbitt's English Usage, and far too many other grammar books.

What I'm writing: nothing, this week. I know, I know. I'm awful. But next week I will pump out another violent children's book.

Nicest comfort of the week: remade my bed, PROPERLY, so the sheets were tight and cosy. Also cleaned out my desk drawer and chucked out a ton of old stuff, which just feels so nice and cleansing. I see why my Mother likes to do it so often. One time she even threw out all of our birth certificates!

Exciting news ahead: MLK day (so no school on monday!)

Find of the week: Notecards. Completely revolutionized the way I study.

Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds

Before I forget: check out Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds by Katie Melua. She's a classy lady and I love her take on this classic Beatles tune.

On to other subjects. I am blogging tonight because I realize I have not done so in over a week, and if I am to successfully convince myself that by blogging I am in some way fulfilling my duty to write a journal, then so be it. I will tell you all that my poor journal writing is largely my brother's fault. I can't tell you the number of times I caught him poring through my silly scribbles, or the number of times he would coyly slip into public conversation the name of my latest crush. Humiliating. Don't get me wrong, I love the kid, but a snoop is every young girls nightmare. At one point I decided to develop a very sophisticated "code language". It was so sophisticated in fact, that now I have 2 months worth of my 13 yr old history that I can in no way decipher.

Anyway, here I am.

My semester is looking interesting. I have a couple of classes that I would rather not take, but am doing so in the name of graduation. English language 325 would be one of those classes. My Professor is an interesting character. If any of you have ever seen "spongebob squarepants" before, you will know what I mean when I tell you that he reminds me of Squidward. His voice is identical. He wears his too big trousers very low and wears the sorts of glasses that President Benson did.

I am taking a German class. I thought it was high time that I did so. I have learned that while I read and translate rather well, my oral skill is pretty much non existent. However, I am glad that I am in the class because there are some very interesting characters in it. I probably will not go into detail because knowing my luck I will become jolly good friends with them all and there could be some possibility of them reading this at some point.

Geology. I am giving Physical science another whirl. You will all know that the last time I tried, it didn't work out so well for me: yes, you may call me a "quitter"- go ahead. Judge. But this time it might be bearable. Rocks and stuff- I am rather pumped up for it. Either that, or I am SAYING I am pumped up because I know for a fact that one of you blog fans is related to my professor. Hi Matt.

My other classes include more Grammar classes than I thought possible and an INCREDIBLY interesting "Bible as Literature" class that I have heard immensely about.

My cooking feats as of late: Pork pot roast (very yummy), my lovely greek potato dish (email me for the details- it's simply marvelous) and macaroni cheese, martha stewart style. How I love her. Minus the jail situation of course.

Insult of the week- by none other than Sam Larson, of course: he called me his "Wendy" as I cooked for him and his "lost boys". Not at all impressed.

Movie of the week: Leap Year. Devon and I ran out to watch it (yes, Devon went to a CHIC FLICK, it happened)- it was rather adorable. Our favourite part, it seemed, was where Amy Adams explains to the Irish lead her intentions to propose to her man, and said Irish lead laughs his head off and tells her its ridiculous. You have to see it. For the record, I agree with the Irish lead- no girl should have to propose to any boyfriend she has for four years. Having said that, it appears we now live in a society where guys find it impossible to even ask a girl out to dinner so...

Ah yes- one more piece of news before I skip off to bed- I was promoted at work! Hurray for a whole extra dollar an hour and a tad more power.

Mansfield Park

Bravo BBC for another timeless depiction of Austen. The only thing that I disagree with is Billie Piper.

There's Egg on Your Chin!

new saying I learned today- origin: Yorkshire (apparently- feel free to correct)- meaning: your flies are undone.

On another note: Happy New Year! Christmas was wonderful- Frankfurt is snow-covered and chilly, but the house is warm and beautifully decorated. You will all be so proud of me: I stuffed my first turkey, all by myself (with a little help from Martha Stewart)! Martha advised me that my stuffing had to be piping hot as it went into the turkey- which confused me because she was shoveling it in with her hands. How was I supposed to do it with my hands if it was piping hot?! So I opted to do it with a spoon and fork. I crammed it in there and by the time I did, the turkey looked twice the size! I smothered the turkey in butter, arranged a bed of vegetables and dumped the turkey on top. It was sensational.

My time has been occupied with board games, far too much television and a disgusting but satisfying talent of sleeping in.

Of the aforementioned television watching, I must take a moment to rave about CRANFORD, a period series supplied by, of course, the BBC. Judi Dench at her finest, and writing at its most supple. I enjoyed it immensely and recommend it to you all.

The New Year was okay. I feel it a little tedious to admit publically my disdain for feeling like a sore thumb, but I am sure we can all agree on the matter. I spent the new year on a dance floor (standing still- the awkwardness is already apparent) completely SINGLE whilst couples with at least 20 years of marriage under their belts jiggled and bopped around me sporting the best dance moves of the mid '80s. Coupledom. Jiggling. And me.

On the plus side, I learned a lovely Portuguese tradition: at midnight everyone ate 12 raisins and made a wish on each one. I used the same wish for at least 6 raisins because when it comes down to the wire and glasses are clinking and couples are kissing and everyone is hugging everyone frantically, it became stressful and I didn't want my wishing time to expire. in retrospect, I might suppose that 12 is a hefty number, and it is quite easy to get greedy with 12 wishes. 3 should suffice in the future.

My Resolutions of the year (I am writing them so that you may feel like you may scold me when I slip) are the following:

1. to study the Book of Mormon every day

2. to read the Ensign every month

3. to submit one manuscript to a publisher every month

4. to dedicate one day per week to only classical or spiritual music on my ipod

5. to read more

6. to learn how to better manage my money (or lack thereof).

Tomorrow I will fly back to the states, ready for another semester of school and excited for a new and hopefully eventful year!

My love to you all, and dear blessings for the year! Thank you for reading!

Mistletoe

(mum) Hollie! Are there boys in your apartment?

(me) Yes, mum.

(mum) Do you have mistletoe up?

(me) No, Mum!

(mum) well... Go and draw some then!

Finals are Nigh

There is one more day left of school, then on to finals! Of COURSE, I am far from prepared, having spent a lot of time preparing for Christmas and Germany and just life in general. I wonder what it feels like to truly be on top of everything?

I will take a minute to express to you how utterly excited I am to hop on that plane and touch down in Europe! I am SO excited. You know how when you like a boy a ton and every other minute you think of him? It's like that. I am SO excited to be done with exams and be with my family!

This year I have handmade my wrapping paper. I painted it all. My roommate laughed at me, but the joke was on my when I finished and they looked rather fantastic. Christmas is my ultimate favourite time of the year.

The other breaking news is that I AM IN CHARGE OF THE CHRISTMAS DINNER THIS YEAR! Mum said I could cook it this year- so I am thrilled. I can't wait until I have a spare moment to surf my favourite cooking sites for delectable recipes and tips. Also this will be my first time cooking a turkey from scratch. So... wish me luck! Also, please comment/ email me any good recipe ideas.

peace out.

Thanksgiving week: A Synopsis

My current mood is pensive- mainly due to Ingrid Michaelson, whose subtle tones and thought provoking lyrics are currently swimming from my earbuds at this moment in time. You know how some songs or kinds of music can just put you into one of those frames of mind? You find yourself sitting, thinking- what did I do right today? What didn't I do? What could I have said better? What could I have left unsaid? Did I have the courage to do something brilliant today? Anything so magnificent that maybe, just maybe, someone might remember it forever? I don't know why I don't live every day by asking myself these questions every morning. Perhaps I should begin such a practice. In the mean time, here is a very eclectic [as usual] accounting for some of the thought processes/ events that have happened lately.

Number one: I considered this week all of the photographs that I could be in- in the background. Not MY photographs, or my friends, or ones that I could end up being "tagged" in on facebook. But the ones that strangers take that you end up being in regardless of your concern or permission. What incredible number of family photo albums could I be in, on dusty shelves across the world? It's a scary albeit ridiculous thought to consider, yes, but... for a moment at least, humor me and consider it.

Secondly, the art of giving thanks. For it is an art, I hope you know. That was a trick- the world would have us believe that being grateful is an art- something that only talented and often educated peoples are granted. Not so. One ought to practice being grateful at every given opportunity. It is one of those moments when you will be as human as possible: in the good way, of course. Let me take the opportunity to tell you all that I am grateful today for the following: my family, as wonderfully different and genuine as they are; my brother Alastair in particular, who is serving the Lord on a full time mission. I don't know if you out there reading realize how great that kid is. I'm thankful that I have at least some inclination. My friends. Experiences good and bad and the lessons I have learned from both. The gospel of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon- an incredible book that I learn from every day. Every page is as real and true as I sit here typing. If you don't have one, you NEED one in your life- contact me and I will send you one for christmas. No joke. I'm also grateful for christmas trees, my crock pot and pancakes today.

Thirdly, christmas. Christmas shopping is perhaps the best activity on the planet. University mall just opened an incredible christmas shop that is very inexpensive, has an overwhelming cinnamon air and is officially my new happy place. We decorated our tree last night. If you live close, forget Temple Square- visit MY APARTMENT for a christmas light experience. It's beautiful. Rumor has it that if you make a wish while touching our christmas tree, it will come true. So come visit. Unless you are boy- you can come later this week, when we finally get mistletoe (wishing is something, but mistletoe might help your chances).

That's about all I have time for right now. And no photograph- sincere apologies- because I can't be bothered to locate my cord and plug it in and download and upload etc. Next time, I promise.

Movie of the Month

I'm sure I've mentioned this before- there are certain movies out there that are just inspirational. This is one of the few that makes my fingertips tingle, and writing is all I want to do. I appreciate this movie for a number of things. Firstly, it's superb writing. I have said it time and time again: there is a lot of crap out there that is in no way worthy of remembering. This script is not one of them. It is genius: realistic and optimistic of the goodness in people that we tend to forget. I appreciate the dynamic of the family: how it is focused and celebrated. The characters- each one- are beautifully sculpted and relatable. And lastly, the music is refreshing and enjoyable (props to Sondre Lerche). If you haven't seen this movie: go get it right now- pay full price if you need to, you won't regret it. If you HAVE seen it... watch it again!

Brushes With Death

I'm going to level with you, blog fans. I am quite helpless these days! Fate seems to have it in for me- and if I believed in fate I suppose that fact would scare me. I have had 3- yes, THREE- brushes with death in the recent present. First of all, in the form of an electrical scare. I was drying my hair one night, getting ready for a night out on the town with the girls. It was hot in the bathroom and I was feeling sort of dehydrated, so I ran myself a cup of cold water and proceeded to sip on said water as my head was angled in a manner that accommodated the blow- dryer. As such, water spilled directly into the mouth of the dryer, prompting very scary electrical noises, sparks etc. I fumbled frantically to switch off the dryer and flung it across to the other side of the bathroom (yes, toward the damp shower- again note my hopelessness).

The second brush with death isn't really a brush with death, but merely a brush with the thought of death. I had a bit of a health scare when certain symptoms prompted me to consider the possibility of breast cancer. Although I am very young (despite what Provo Culture tells me), I panicked a little when I considered family history of breast cancer. I got myself checked out, which was in and of itself a rather traumatizing ordeal. I had always hoped the first person to explore that territory would be a husband. Nevertheless, I chatted a mile a minute as it happened, and through ultra sound tests etc. The results of my tests were normal, and it seems that I have nothing to worry about- which is a huge relief. You might wonder why I have plastered this information all over my blog. My reason is simple: to urge you female readers to be careful and check yourself regularly! Women should check themselves at least once a month. It should take no longer than 15 minutes and is a cautionary way to make sure to stay smart. For information of how to do this, visit http://www.arimidex.com/self-exam.aspx

Thirdly, today on the way to church (giggle at the irony), the car I was in took a pretty hard hit. As sheer typicality would have it, I was the passenger to be sitting at the point of impact and, as such, am sporting a cartoon-esque bump on the head. After a quick google, I can determine that I only have a mild concussion right now- hopefully it won't get worse! The real sympathy must be lent to both drivers. I would feel awful if I hit a car, I know it!

All of this being said, you will be happy to know that I live to blog another day, as it would seem. And while we are on the subject: I realize that there is much catching up that must be done. So in a bid to keep myself from sleeping, which might not be good for me right now, I will do just that!

In the News...

Solmali Woman Stoned to Death for Adultery

BBC World News

A 20-year-old woman divorcee accused of committing adultery in Somalia has been stoned to death by Islamists in front of a crowd of about 200 people.

A judge working for the militant group al-Shabab said she had had an affair with an unmarried 29-year-old man.

He said she gave birth to a still-born baby and was found guilty of adultery. Her boyfriend was given 100 lashes.

It is thought to be the second time a woman has been stoned to death for adultery by al-Shabab.

The group controls large swathes of southern Somalia where they have imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law which has been unpopular with many Somalis.

You Can Have Whatever You Like...

Conversation at work this morning...

Me (singing along to my ipod): You can have whatever you liiiiikkeee...

Lacey: Oh my gosh, no you can't

Me: Yes I can! T.I. says so...

Jordan: He wasn't talking to you!

Me: SHUT UP, yes he was!

In the News...

Deputies Search for 2 Fugitives

My boss came in this morning and told me about this: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=8702655 which went down on his street last night. If you live in the nearby area, lock your doors and BE CAREFUL!

Find of the Day

Many thanks to Lacey for this one! In case you can't see it, it says "Eat, eat eat! And always stay thin! Fat- the enemy that is shortening your life- Banished! How? With [sanitized] Tape Worms (Jar packed)... Easy to Swallow!"

Hail the fifties!

QUESTION OF THE DAY

What is the point of the Penguin? I know they're cute and all, but WHAT DO THEY DO for the good of humanity? What do they provide the human race with (because honestly humans are the superior species- and don't give me that animal loving crap. If you donate money or time to animal charities and not human charities, consider yourselves undeniably wicked)?

In the News...

MAN STABS HIMSELF TO AVOID WORK

We all know there are some days when you just can't face the thought of going into work. But one man in Denver took a rather extreme approach to throwing a sickie, local police say - he stabbed himself and claimed to have been attacked by three men in a ploy to get off work...

To read the rest of this story, go to http://www.metro.co.uk/weird/article.html?Man_stabs_himself_to_avoid_work&in_article_id=762403&in_page_id=2

Reminiscing... Because That's All My Mind Will Allow for...

I know that you will all think I'm lying for sure, but I will admit that lately my thought processes have revolved around me me me, and as such, my writing capabilities are restricted to, well, me.

Case and point: while writing a paper yesterday, I defined the word (as was the assignment) "spank". Today, my professor emailed me to tell me how much he liked my commentary on the different household applianced that could be used for a good hiding, including the slipper- my mother's weapon of choice.

The Americans have a saying (and as it usually goes with the Americans, it's short and leaves the unsuspecting foreigner quite puzzled): TMI. Which means, Too Much Information. Apparently my filter is not functioning.

Anyway, I am sitting here with the intent of writing a few children's book manuscripts that do not, preferably, include abduction, terrorism, poo and lying, but all I seem competent of is revisiting my childhood.

And so, it's story time!

HOLLIE'S FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL. EVER.

Before I begin, I would like to make you all aware that the day I will soon recount marked the first day of my near seventeen year love affair with education. If I'm honest, the last year has been rocky and we're thinking of breaking up (but we probably won't, for the sake of the degrees etc). Regardless: this "first day" was the first of nine first days- and that's nine schools, not nine grade beginnings etc. Are you sympathetic yet?

I don't recall the weather or anything like that. I wasn't nervous, as most other "first day's" seemed to go, just excited. Mum did my hair as she always did, but the vibrant and pretty bows were put away for less serious matters. I had a uniform. I wore knee socks, a grey skirt, a pale blue button up shirt with stiff cuffs, a navy blue striped tie and a cardigan. My shoes were new: black and polished from Clark's. Daddy helped my with my tie and Mum took a barrage of photographs, standing by the stone fireplace, and outside too.

I didn't let go of my lunchbox until I arrived at the cloak room at the school. It strikes me how funny it is that they call it a cloak room. I guess the British cling to the old more than I'd expect. My peg had my name above it. I hung my coat (which was long and made me feel like an elegant lady) and placed my blue plastic lunch box on the bench underneath it.

The Mums stayed with us for a while as we all got our bearings. I can't say that I remember too much about this chaotic part of the day, except for a very brief flash of panic when she bent down to tell me had to go now, and I should have fun and make friends. My attention was on the sand pit that my hands were buried in.

My teacher was Mrs. Booth, which made Alastair laugh because it sounded to him like "boob". We sat on the carpet around her chair and of course I can't remember what she said or taught or read. I can just tell you that the letters of the alphabet were pasted to the wall above her head and I sat next to a girl named Janine Brown. She had a thick fringe and her blue shirt collar was askew. She wasn't as neat as me.

I wonder if elementary school teachers have the ability to see a child and just know how they will turn out. I suppose that's a very rude and insensitive thing to say- especially as, when I think about it, the likelihood of that teacher truly knowing how their little students turn out is not very great. So I guess my question is- how judgmental do you reckon these grade school teachers are?

St. Chads Primary School lasted a year and a half- the highlights of which include me playing the Queen in the class presentation of Dick Whitington and His Cat (my lines were "A cat? What is a cat?!" and "Oh, Captain! We MUST have that cat!"), my first boyfriend by the name of Christopher (or something like that), beating everyone in running on sports day, painting a blossom tree in Mrs. Faulkner's class, and remembering that the floor in the assembly hall was made of wooden slabs. I also remember playing the letter "L" in another class play which was all about the alphabet- which I praise my parents for sitting through.

It was probably the best of all the "first days". The worst was John Bamford's Primary school, when Melanie Burton, surrounded by the other girls in the class, smugly looked around and announced "all those here who have been at John Bamford's since Reception class, raise your hand." Yes, I was the only one who couldn't raise my hand, and yes, that made me feel like I was the most tragic girl in the universe. But That's another story.

A couple of disclaimers: firstly, my mother very rarely used her slipper. She just threatened us with it, really. I don't think Logan or Connor could tell you a single time they ever saw it. Alastair could probably tell you some stories though! Secondly, Melanie- if you're reading this, please know that I really don't care about how rude you were to me on my first day of school. I mean, I cared a great deal then, and it made me not want to go to school ever again, but I'm over it now. Completely.

Vent (verb)

I would just like you all to know that the purpose in my writing presently is to chastise myself sorely for my un-productivity today. I have sat in the same very hard chair in the library for close to 6 hours today, staring at my computer wondering how on earth to execute a paper and am appalled at both my lack of progress and my ability to squander away time as though it were nothing but blades of grass that nobody ever cared to walk on, look at, pick or do anything with.

And while I realize that that last sentence makes no comprehensible sense, I must go on: why, oh why, am I here, doing this, if my head is not in the game? I would very much like to have the same resources that rich time wasters have: if such were the case, I would not worry that I did not have the money to do what I wanted, when I wanted. Isn't it disgusting that you need MONEY to do STUFF these days? When did life get so complicated? I have half a mind to quit school and sit at a desk and write until I make my million in something as brainless as the Twilight series.

But then, we all know that that would be impossible because at the rate I'm going it would take me three hundred years to write even a chapter of ANYTHING because I seem to have lost my brain.

I would also like to point out to the world that one good thing happened today: I was asked to read a part of a paper I had written in class.

In retrospect, I will write to you all this time next week and say "wow. crazy week. it's over. life's good."

So really... what's my point?

What I'm Listening to

Come Thou Fount. Alastair asked me to collect an array of different versions and whack 'em on a CD for him. It is a beautiful song.

Dream by Priscilla Ahn. Fast becoming one of my favourite songs.

The Ghost Busters theme song. Do not pretend you've never gotten down to it.

Crock Pot Love, and Other News

I know I have been atrocious and have not written in quite some time. It's not as bad as my aunt, who for the past 3 or 4 months has been insisting that a new post on her blog is just around the corner. What LIES (yes, Jules, I am now publicly reprimanding you. I am THAT sick of reading about SeaWorld, which happened a HUNDRED years ago).

Anyway. In my absence let me tell you all that I had a mini crisis/ breakdown/ what am I doing with my life type situation. My fabulous friend Haili calls it a mid-college crisis. I will spare you the details and just tell you that I stole away for the weekend, out of Provo, away from school, to recoup.

While recouping (which entails a huge bed, no alarm clocks, hallowe'en movies, my own bathroom, trick or treating children, hershey's kisses and some tragic lifetime-hallmark movies) I will say that the only complaint I did not cook. For 4 days. FOUR DAYS without cooking. I didn't cook. No cooking.

And so, when I got home on sunday night- well, I was too tired from recouping, so I didn't cook on sunday- on MONDAY night, I got straight to it. I did a pot roast for the very first time in my entire existence using the genius of the Crock Pot (girls- don't wait to register. go get one right now. Or borrow one from Lawrence Palmer, apt. 97- he has like 3). I also made pumpkin spice cookies.

Right now (wednesday) I am cooking potato soup in the Crocker. I am going to leave it on while I run out to a review for one of my classes.

Advantages of crockers: they make your house smell like a HOME. You could walk into my apartment right now and half expect your mother to walk into the kitchen. It's THAT good. Also, you can just throw whatever the heck you want in there and it will magically be done in 5 hours. Whereas this may seem like a negative aspect of the crocker, it develops a sense of patience, which I think we all need. Moral of the story: Crockers enrich both diet and humanity.

Fact of the Day

ANATIDAEPHOBIA- The fear that you are being watched by a duck.

On My Mind

1. Snow. It finally happened. And I still need an umbrella and rainboots. Come on blog fans!

2. How wonderful my bed is. Dark Purple sheets with tan/gray linnen sounds ick, but it's really so classy. I'll post a picture soon.

3. How embarrassing it is to break down in the middle of the library. Snot, everywhere. Puffy eyes. On the plus side, I finally cried since April! Still more than I'd care for, but still. The Ice Queen is melting.

4. My strange dream that came to me last night. Devon and I went to a laundromat owned by the Mafia. They made us buy hallowe'en costumes so that we could chaperone a pool party. The Devon's mom got mad at us for going to that laundromat instead of the one she uses which is run by elves. You can see why this is STILL on my mind...

5. The monster midterm I have tomorrow.

6. Haili Gregson's musical genius. She made me a special mix CD (don't bother asking her for one because she only does this for special people... me) and I LOVE it.

7. Sweatpants. For the first time in Hollie History, I shall be attending classes in sweatpants today. I really hope I don't run into you.

A Renovation of the TV Innovative

Just a thought: it seems to be wide spread thought that there is a lot of, for lack of a better word, CRAP on TV. Having said that, let it be known that there are some shows out there that work toward ameliorating the couch potato- or at least his mind. Shows like House and Bones and Greys challenge intellectual processes as well as prompt their audience to consider ethical situations. Perhaps there should be "thought time" after such shows- a period of say 7 minutes wherein the audience may contemplate what they have seen, form an opinion on the social aspects or make goals to further understand a procedure that they saw and may not fully understand. I think we underestimate the nations natural curiosity. Shows like this cannot get such great ratings and numbers merely because of the interchangable relationships that may occur- or perhaps I am expecting or hoping for too idealistically (at least in an educational sense).

MY POINT- it's easy to vege out on the couch and be mindless about what we watch. However, it is far more productive to use such time to educate and exercise your mind.

Issues: Fat Barbie

Barbie Doll - The Perfect Figure? by: Terry Edwards

While no one will argue with the popularity of Mattel's Barbie Doll, one area that has raised its fair share of controversy over the years is her figure. Many parents from around the world have argued that Barbie's ultra-slim figure represents a ridiculous standard for a body shape. They say that many girls grow up thinking that they must have the same figure as Barbie or there is something wrong with them. While I don't take that radical of a stance, I will say that it would be quite difficult to measure up to Barbie's standards. If you take the measurements of Barbie, she would be over 7 feet tall, weigh around 125 pounds, and have a shape of 32-20-42. Of course, no woman could maintain a figure like that, but this is where the controversy stems. In addition, Barbie has a very long neck. In fact, her neck is nearly twice the size of the average woman. Her feet are also another source of criticism with many saying that Barbie's feet are only half the size of a normal womans due to foot binding. That is the practice of preventing your feet from growing by constricting them. Some have went as far as saying that the Barbie doll has caused their children to become anorexic from trying to maintain Barbie's figure. I think that may be a little extreme, but I can see both sides. In recent years, Mattel has given in a little bit on this issue and widened Barbie's waist a bit. This took place around the year 2000. Barbie now has a more proportioned waist. Regardless of what Barbie's figure looks like, or who is right or wrong on this issue, the real winner in this debate is Mattel. The added controversy and publicity only helps to fuel sales. I wonder why no one talks about Ken's figure?

This is Not a Joke

I just don't understand what kind of Editor a) hires a "writer" such as this and b) publishes and article like this...

Life

Blog fans, I have neglected you for a short time. Not the best of habits, I know. I apologize profusely. Lately I have been experiencing something not unlike senioritis- only I'm not a senior... and I'm not in high school... so my claims to this "disease" are quite unfounded. Life has just been catching up with me! Am I in the right major? Am I doing the best I possibly can in my classes? Am I balancing my time appropriately (a 3 hour nap on a Friday afternoon says "no")? Am I doing everything I should be doing right now?

I think we, as humans, like to throw ourselves into ruts every now and then. I say "throw ourselves" because, really, we cannot expect to presume that anyone other than our own selves are responsible for how our day turns out, our thought processes and our priorities; especially when we live in the sorts of societies that we do.

I feel a tremendous amount of inability and inadequacy. Why? Because I allow myself to have this small moment to wallow in before I know that I will pick myself up, brush myself off and get the heck on with it. Why then, if I have this knowledge, do I allow myself to wallow? My only answer is a feeble excuse: I'm human. If I didn't, this world would not be enough for me and I'd have surely fulfilled my life's purpose and be on to bigger and better things than humanism.

Allow me to take a detour (for your own sanity, I presume) and tell you about some other things that have happened recently.

BIKING. One glorious Sunday afternoon, after a glorious morning at church (kudos to Keith Evans for a fantastic sunday school lesson), I decided to get out of my teensy couple-filled apartment (couples aren't my favourite thing right now. Only because I'm not one...) and hopped on the bike. I found the Provo trail and followed it to the very beginning. I followed Julie Andrew's advise and started at the very beginning (it actually is a very good place to start).

I had my ipod going, and soon Iron and Wine, Busta and Coldplay had joined my feast of nature. A thousand storylines and plots came to me and life was good. I hit Utah Lake shortly thereafter. When I say shortly I mean trillions of miles later (about 10).

By the time I got home I could not feel my butt. 5 minutes later, I could feel it, and it was in major pain.

Why did I do it all again on Monday? My butt has no idea.

In other news, Haili and I spent some quality time together this week- long overdue I might add- but only after we went on a BIKE RIDE (my butt hates me). Anna and also had a friend date this week.

Work is the one thing that I quite enjoy in my day. How odd is that? I took a few escalated calls for fellow workers this week, and a few escalated emails. It used to be that escalated calls (which is a polite way of saying "customers who have their knickers in a twist") would make me shake make palms sweat. Now, however, I get excited- I crack out our list of policies and rules and hit my customers over the head with it! Just kidding. I am very polite, but very unwavering. They call me the iron fist. They don't really, but it would be cool.

And that's it. For now.

Fail of the Day

Worthy of Posting

Brought to you by Erika and the mac-a-lac.

If this picture were the last thing I saw before I died, I'd have a smile on my face until resurrection day.

'Nuff Said

http://www.todaysbigthing.com/2009/10/05

On the Run...

Just a quick one while I am sitting here "studying" before my battery dies on me (though, 8 hours- nice going my young mac-a-lac)- So I am sitting here and this girl comes up to me and says "Hey! don't think this is creepy or anything but would you be interested in modeling for a face class right now?"

BLESS HER HEART I nearly hugged the little mite. However I had to tell her no because I have American Lit. in about 20 minutes. Too bad!

Wait... was this a big compliment or a big insult...

This Happened Yesterday

As is usually the case, the picture does not not do this natural miracle justice. It was probably the most vibrant rainbow I have ever, ever, EVER seen.

In the Kitchen...

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes

This was tuesday night, along with green bean casserole and greek toasted sandwiches (which means you glaze the bread with vinegar and herbs). I stuffed the tomatoes with spinach, red pepper, garlic, onion, bacon, basil and sour cream. Whack it in the over, as Jamie Oliver would say, and bon apetit! (as those frenchies say).

Last night was Left-Over Night. Wednesday is the day that I don't get out of class until 8pm- hence left over night. BUT last night I had to walk home in the RAIN. Left-overs just wouldn't cut it, so I cheated: I made Cupcakes. Thanks to cupcakeblog.com I was relatively inspired.

I added chocolate pudding to the batter, along with chocolate chips. Then, once they had baked, I stuffed the centers with chocolate vanilla creamy goodness. In a word: epic.

For Your Entertainment...

Just so you all know: I'm famous. At least, my opinion is.

Check out my slight comment in the Daily Universe:

http://universe.byu.edu/node/1640

PS. I lied.

PPS. Well, alright it wasn't a lie because AT THE TIME I was biking to school every day.

PPPS. That little reporter manipulated the heck out of my comments. I feel violated and know exactly how politicians feel now.

Bedtime Reading

It strikes me that I have not told you, my blog fans, what I am reading lately. Let me kill the suspense (I know you were all concerned about it): Due the the pure volume of reading my major requires of me, I am not currently reading anything too spellbinding for pleasure.

However, tonight I shall be reading "Aiding Developing Countries through Non Governmental Organizations, as Opposed to Directly Supplying Corrupt Governments," an essay I wrote in my freshman English 150 class. Why?

I'll admit to you all that lately I feel like I am sinking away [albeit subconsciously] from the things that once concerned me intensely. This is a tragedy of the highest degree! And so, as tonight is a non- cooking night (left-over wednesdays), I plan on re-reading past papers and essays, in order to re-evaluate my progressive mindset.

I'll give you the cliff's notes later.

Literature for the Day

Tell all the Truth but tell it slant---
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth's superb surprise
As Lightening to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind---


Emily Dickinson speaks to me.