Howl of the Unappreciated

It snowed today. Words cannot describe HOW SICK of the snow I am. Can't...handle...it...for...much....longer... And as the icing on the cake, I TOTALLY got sprayed by a passing car. And it got all over my large drawing pad too, so it's a tinsy bit wrinkled. Do you ever have days where you just need a good cry, even though there's really nothing to cry about? Life is good. Doing well in school, got a new calling I'm excited about (although it's getting more and more complicated as the days go on. I won't just be teaching at church, apparently, and the 1st counselor keeps emphasizing how important this is which makes me feel like I'm probably going to blow it and Hilary, a LA is going to go to hell because I didn't do as good of a job as I should've or could've.), got a righteous babe for a boyfriend, he's got awesome roommates, good friends, a great job, I belong to the true church (always helpful), got a great family--everyone's healthy and Jared just came home so Stacey's happy, instant access to chocolate, cute new purse and camera from an obliging thoughtful aunt, a good home with a good roommate... what's to complain about? I forget, but the feeling is still there. Goodness, I hate hormones. But as Nwahs once said, "Hey, if I were bleeding profusely from the crotch, I'd be a bit upset, too!" That made my day. Thanks Shawn. I mean, er, Nwahs.

What are the odds?

On the way to work today, I burst out laughing when I found fifty dollars lying on the side of the road. What are the odds?
There's a girl in the clinical psychology department that I recognized--she used to be roommates with my freshman year roommate-Kaylyn. I didn't bother to mention it to her though until today, and I was right--they were roommates together sophomore year. And then on the way to campus from work today, I thought I recognized this guy getting into a car, and I glance in the car and THERE'S KAYLYN!!! What are the odds? I had only met her husband like once, so the fact that I recognized him--I'm pretty pleased with myself.
My boss bought me Keebler fudge sticks and my coworker a croissant and us both chocolate milk because we had this (literally) headache of a workload to do for a professor. It took a third of the time we thought it would, so I had time to do my New Testament reading! I think I might be able to finish most of my homework today for tomorrow! Yay. Insert cheers here. Today's going to be a good day. And another professor complimented me on my trousers. Awwww... On the downside I started *cough* bleeding profusely today, but fortunately at least thus far my mood swings have been on the upside. Watch out when the pendelum goes the other way.... yikes! On the plus side both Shawn and Rachel gave me a nice back massage yesterday (not at the same time. You calling me fat?), and Rachel's getting better all the time at it! Awww look at you. The sweetness of it all.
Can't wait for my fave comp's wedding in a few weeks. March 10. Had a good half birthday. And even though Rachel thought to get me a present, that in fact, doesn't, make, you, look, bad, Shawn, so, don't, worry. GOSH.
I think that's about it! Can't stop giggling, despite my cramps and homework load. Oh the wonders of hormones.

Gravy boat, darling.

The optimist fell ten stories.
At each window bar
He shouted to his friends:
"All is well so far!"
~Unknown

Yorkshire puddings

2 eggs
2 heaped tablespoons of plain flour
milk

Beat eggs and flour to paste
add little milk until creamy (coats spoon)

Lard a 12 bun or muffin tin
place in oven to get hot
Place mix in tin. Cook at top of oven until golden. About 10/15 minutes on highest heat

Good luck!

That was a recipe from a family in my last area. I lived for Yorkshire puddings. I ate loads nearly everyday and still didn't get sick of them. Especially soaked in gravy. Mmmmm.... I might be forced to make some when I actually get the opportunity to, you know, buy some milk. Sigh.

Gravy was my saving grace on my mission. It facilitated the consumption of many alien or questionable repasts.

I've been having a lot of weird dreams. Last night I dreamed that I was really tiny, and had to travel with my parents, who weren't really my parents in real life, and they weren't king and queen but they were something akin to that. There was this enemy trying to get us. At one point we were running for refuge, and this cute little monster thing was able to produce loads of fluffy feathery type stuff and rolled us up in that so we were able to make it without being spotted. Dang it, the dream is quickly fading as I try to recall its events. The night before I dreamed my boyfriend and I were companions on the mission. We were determined to knock until 12, but around 11:41 I was growing tired and irritable and wanted to stop for lunch, and he's like "no this is what we agreed to do." Yeah, I'm kind of thinking he was the more steadfast missionary of the two of us. Itriedsohard.

Kay, that's about it.

How have I treated you differently today than from any other day?

Stole this from Steve on facebook.

Terror in Europe:
The British are feeling the pinch in relation to recent bombings and have raised their security levels from "Miffed" to "Peeved". Soon,though, security levels may be raised yet again to "Irritated" or even"A bit cross". Londoners have not been "A bit cross" since the blitz in1940 when tea supplies all but ran out. Terrorists have been re-categorized from "Tiresome" to a "Bloody Nuisance." The last time the British issued a "Bloody Nuisance" warning level was during the great fire of 1666.Also, the French government announced yesterday that it has raised its terror alert from "Run" to "Hide". The only two higher levels in France are "Surrender" and "Collaborate." The rise was precipitated by a recent fire that destroyed France's white flag factory, effectively paralyzing the country's military capability. It's not only the English and the French that are on a heightened level of alert. Italy has increased the alert level from "Shout loudly and excitedly" to "Elaborate military posturing". Two more levels remain: "Ineffective combat operations" and"Change sides".The Germans also increased their alert state from "Disdainful arrogance"to "Dress in uniform and sing marching songs". They also have two higher levels: "Invade a neighbor" and "Lose". Belgians, on the other hand,are all on holiday as usual, and the only threat they are worried about is NATO pulling out of Brussels.

It's the white one.

Well it was quite the dramatic day yesterday. I had a midterm to take for stats. Lost count of how many hours I had spent studying for it, but was tokenly rewarded with an 89%, not counting the essay portion, which I think I did okay on. Whew. That's a load off. On the other hand, it never occurred to me that developing slides might take longer than a day. I went up to the photo people in the BYU bookstore and they said they send it out so it could take anywhere from 4 to 7 days! Will my dreams of making it into the illustration program be shattered? Oh, will we ever know? Stay tuned! If it isn't developed in time, at the very least this'll give me an opportunity to do better and more artwork and improve my grades this semester and over the summer, both of which will increase my chances of being accepted next year. I just wish admissions were twice a year. Ggggrrrrrrr.......... I wouldn't be me if I didn't procrastinate my life and therefore screw it up. Either way I have a super busy weekend ahead of me. I'm going to trysohard! Blech. I thought I lost my blue scarf yesterday, but it turned out I left it at work! Yay.


So, here's the dramatic part: A guy from my stake back at home is a graduate student in the clinical psychology department, so I see him around here a lot. Yesterday, when I got einstein bagels for case conference, I was downstairs spreading them out on the table for the students, and he happened to be there. I said hi, and he returned the greeting and asked if I knew a Brother Reagan, and one of his daughters was Cheryl. I said I did, that I was (and am!) best friends with his daughter Lyndy. He said that Brother Reagan died over a week ago, from heart problems or something. I was so stunned that I just went about putting stuff out like nothing had happened. It didn't really hit until I left the room and was halfway up the stairs and that's when I could feel the tears coming. Let me give you some more background. Our families moved into the Bothell 3rd ward around the same time--Lyndy and I have been friends since we were two. My mom has known her mom since college, and our dads are home teaching companions. I head straight for my phone, go to the bathroom, and barely holding it together I call my mom. Fortunately she answers, super-excited to hear from me (how could you not be?), and I asked her. At first she was just really confused and couldn't understand me, and I'm like "PHIL PHIL REAGAN. LYNDY'S DAD. DID HE DIE LAST WEEK?!?!" And she's like "um... Dad just talked to him on Sunday, so unless it's been in the last day or two, he's fine!" I was so relieved that that's when I completely lost it (thank goodness I was in the bathroom!) and I'm like "um... mom, next time he dies will you actually let me know?" and she said yeah, and then I said I had to get off the phone to compose myself. Holy heck. And then fortunately Lyndy was online, so I asked her the most awkward question since I don't know what, and she's like "um... not that I know of!" Apparently Brother Egan died. He's from the stake back at home, too, and has a son here at BYU around my age. I feel really badly for him, but am admittedly relieved that it wasn't Lyndy's dad. Didn't get a chance to set Spencer straight though, because I didn't see him after the Conference. Good times. My makeup all melted off by 11 o'clock. Good times. Usually the majority of it is gone by the late afternoon. At least with that I got an early start! No procrastinating for me. (in the first picture, Lyndy is on the right)



Sian, my perfect former companion getting married, sent me the information about the bridesmaid dresses. The pattern she picked out is actually pretty cute! I just can't find the particular yellow fabric she wanted online, but we'll see what I can get at JoAnn's or Hancocks. I like the dress on the right. But could you really picture me in that, and it being yellow? We'll see. At least she's thoughtful in the design department.

I think that's about it! Sorry if I was super cranky and stressed out last night, Rachel. Sometimes things get to me. Even with a great McDonalds meal.

No ifs, ands or butts

So I sometimes get into these ridiculously inappropriate moods where my only desire in life is to make people irritated and uncomfortable and confused. Doesn't happen very often, but when it does, just humor me and let me get it out of my system, and then I'm fine for another few months. We had a canadian family reunion over break, and just to be *cough* cheeky, I suddenly had the great urge to photograph my immediate familys'... butts. I KNOW! I'M WEIRD! I'M SORRY! Anyway, ten points for anyone who could guess which butts were which. As a clue, my twin brother and older brother's butts are not pictured. I'm not THAT weird. *blush*

A favorite elder from my mission may be visiting this weekend! He's from Denmark. Just found out today. I guess you could say he was my best friend on the mish--of the elders anyway, even though a few others came pretty close. He was my zone leader for two areas in a row--we transferred together!--so we served really close together for 7.5 months. And went through a lot. *Shudder* don't care to think about some of the crap that I had to deal with at the time, but he was a good friend, listener, and example. And he could juggle and iceskate like no other, which is a must have for any zone leader, I think. Good times. Anyway, if he does come, it'll be for ten days. And with his ex-girlfriend. Giving it another go, sounds like. It's been nearly a year since I last saw him! Weeeeeird. Feels like yesterday. I wish them all the happiness! :)

Rachel said the sweetest thing to me yesterday! Nearly lost it. We were sitting in Stake Conference, and the speaker was talking about being sensitive to other people and their needs and just who they are or something like that, and suddenly, all of a sudden, out of nowhere, like a flash, a vision, out of the blue, she turns to me and says something like, "that's exactly what you are, Kari!" I was completely taken aback. I think I'm pretty self-centered and clueless, but whatever helps you sleep at night, Rachel! You just make it easy to be thoughtful. But thanks. I appreciate it.

My sister is quite possibly the funniest person I know. I talked to her on the phone yesterday for a bit about things, and fortunately her husband Jared is coming home in a couple of weeks (I don't know how she manages with him gone for so long! I get irritable and antsy if I haven't seen Shawn for more than a day or two), anyway, she was complaining that one of the worst things about him being gone is that her dog is always staring at her! She said that she even took Maggie for a really long run, but that didn't stop her! Even while we were on the phone, Stacey, full of disgust, just reprimanded her by saying, "MAGGIE! NO LOOKING!!!!! GOSH!" I literally doubled over and slapped the floor I was laughing so hard. I love her because she has no qualms about stating how much she hates people, and doesn't like being around them, even when she's in a good mood! If that's not perfection, I don't know what is. Anyway, I love that dog. She's so high maintenance, but in a really cute way.

Um, yeah--I'm TOTALLY the favourite!!!

Is it REALLY weird that I'm super excited to get new batteries for my ancient TI-82? I didn't realize all it needed was four triple A batteries, and now I can't wait! I haven't used that baby since high school! And even then it was considered obsolete by my fellow TI-83+ students. The real snobs used the TI-85's. Who did they think they were? Ridiculous. The rest of us laughed at them behind their intellectually foward but socially backwards' backs.

So, through a short series of e-mails, my Dad informed me that he was going to send me some money, but that it 'wouldn't be much.' And it would just be between him and me--a gift for his starving student of a daughter. I was EXPECTING about twenty bucks, and deep down secretly crossing my fingers for $50-100 dollars. Do you like how I used both the word and sign for dollar? Me, too. I got home late last night, and found that the little Fedex envelope was still at the doorstep. Thank goodness no one took it! I had assumed Jessica would've found it and stuck it on the table. Anyway, I open it... and it was A MONTH'S WORTH OF RENT!!! 300 dollars! I couldn't believe it! I had been freaking out lately over how I was going to pay for tithing and rent (well not TITHING :) )and milk and bills and everything, and my Daddy was an inadvertent answer to a concerned frazzled oft-repeated prayer. I nearly started crying! Thanks Daddy! I love you, and not just because even though I haven't lived at home for nearly five years you still see fit to try to help financially support me! It'll save me twenty bucks on a late fee for rent, too! :)
There was something else I wanted to write about... I hate Biology, but that wasn't it. I hate things I don't understand. So I like very nearly everything! Just kidding. Science makes a whooshing sound as it goes over my head.

WHHHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSSSHHHHH!!!!!!!

I just remembered what it was--my favourite companion Sian Watts is getting married HERE (well in LOGAN) in MARCH instead of MAY IN ENGLAND. WHICH MEANS I GET TO GO!!! WHICH MEANS THAT SHE ALSO REQUESTED I BE HER.... bridesmaid. In pale yellow. I own one pale yellow (one YELLOW) ANYTHING, and I don't think it'll be temple appropriate. It's a small Beatles Magical Mystery Tour T-shirt I got at Walmart over the summer. Yeeeesh. She's sending me a swatch and sounds like she or I will be making my own dress for it. Good times. I haven't sewn since the summer (on my machine anyway) minus my purse I made, so that'll be really fun--I'm looking forward to that. And I can't believe she's getting married! I'm so excited, I just ADORE this girl. She totally deserves all the happiness life and Trevor can give her; and he had BETTER worship her. Or there will be words from an angry former junior companion (which are the worst words to be had). (pictured: how I'd LIKE to look. How I WILL look. O the poofiness of it all.)

As something negative, I screwed up my arm yesterday, lifting my super-ridiculously-heavy backpack. So now my elbow really hurts. Why WHY?!?! I try popping it, which feels good for about five seconds, then grows steadily worse again. Good times.

As something positive, I received a letter as well yesterday from my friend Jessie that I've known since forever. Well, we became friends in junior high. We're both Beatles fanatics, so we sign our letters to each other PS I LOVE YOU after our signature. Cool, huh. Anyway, it was so cute, she mentioned (I took fifth and sixth grade from her mom) how I'm the only student EVER that she would allow to do whatever I wanted while she taught--which was usually knitting, because she'd ask me what she had just taught and I could repeat it back to her. Te, hee. Those were the days.

As something again positive, yesterday Rachel gave me half of her butterfinger, and I just stuck it in my pocket for later. And forgot about it. And after my stats class (which ended twenty minutes early! A YEAH F!) I found it and it made me happy because I was craving chocolate like CRAZY! If I'm not blessed and spoiled I don't know who is. Thanks Rachel!

Guard your carnal treasure!

My sister and me, and then my Daddy and Mommy (that's probably the first time I've ever seen them engage in any real affection... te, hee) and then Ally me and Stacey--Ally is the one Stacey's husband's little brother married. His name is James. The one of Jared and my Dad--the three of us went for a walk/hike thing. Beautiful view (notice the photo of me about to push Jared off the cliff. I guess the vista inspired me.).


How is there any question? I definitely have the cutest bestest family ever in the history of humans.

Although this one makes it arguable. And he's MY twin? What?! REALLY!?!? Him?!
I have a lovely sister. She just sent me a couple of CD's of family get-togethers and such, and $20, to pay me back for a three dollar thing of india ink I had bought for my class that she decided she just HAD TO HAVE. I was joking when I told her she had to pay me back, but now I'm glad I said it! :) These are pictures from our Canadian family reunion and then a rock climbing stint in Colorado. Mmm.... I love and hate rock climbing. It's so addicting, and yet I'm cussing under my breath and calling Jared a bastard every other second. Good times. I love this picture I took of my dad... I'M NOT DEAD YET!!!!!!!!!!

Happy two months (fer reals this time) Shawn!

I'm really ashamed. I'm wearing all brown today, and I thought my pant legs were wide enough, but they weren't, so when I walk you can see my bright pink Santa Claus socks from miles away. I would've liked that in high school, but not so much now.

itrysohard

Short People got no reason to liiiiiiiiiive

You know you've hit rock bottom when after a 2 AM session of puking your guts out, passing out on the heater in the front room until morning (what MUST my roommate think of me?!), finishing a REALLY funny book (one of the highlights of the day) watching dumb movies like MI-III, thankfully having two discerning friends come over to keep you company for a few hours, you hear the Randy Newman song "Short People" on the radio at 10 PM and COMPLETELY LOSE IT because it makes you miss your Dad like NO OTHER because whenever you'd get sick he'd make you the best tomato lipton soup (you just take normal lipton noodle soup and add half a can of tomato juice to it), and the most amazing grilled cheese sandwiches to help you feel better.

So guess who hit rock bottom.


I suppose that's what sucks about having the best dad ever in the history of humans. And Dads. Mortal ones, anyway. My Dad introduced me to Randy Newman at a very young age, and I've loved Randy ever since, and no matter what the song, whenever I hear a Randy Newman song I instantly think of him. My Dad, that is.


Anyway, on the bright side this morning I started my period. So although I may have cramps, I can now blame the mood swings on an external locus of control. Good times.

As a side note, I strongly encourage anyone looking to live dangerously (as I actually said I would when I picked these up) to not do so to the extent of buying the guacamole flavoured Pringles, at least from Smiths. BAD IDEA. BOOOO!!! They don't taste nearly as good coming up as they do going down, even though there isn't that much of a difference. And O the way it burns your throat. Mmmmm.....



The funny book I was referring to is "One for The Money" by Janet Evanovich. I think I found a new favorite series to read. A yeah F.

I also started "Angela's Ashes," and after the first 20 pages, I can already tell I'm really going to enjoy it. Especially after the dedication page practically mirrored the stamp I bought at JoAnns a few weeks ago that said "I love you, admire you and respect you." A stamp that horrifying is just asking to be purchased and used for facetiously evil means. ASKING FOR IT. Didn't expect practically the same message to be used for sincere means in a pulitzer-prize winning memoir.

This is cruel irony. I went food shopping (Janay took me and I didn't find out until we were already there that she didn't even need to, and just went because she knew I needed to! If that's not a true BFF Forever, then I don't know what is) a couple of days ago, and only bought chocolate pudding and Reeses Peanut Butter puffs. Both of which the chocolate content is negligible. O cruel cruel fate. And O the poofiness of it all (it's ALL FOR YOU, Rachel!). I did cut my bangs yesterday, in a fit of frustrative rage. Yes, that is a word. I promise. At least Rachel and Heather bought me some Reeses Peanut Butter cups. King size. mmmm.... Uh oh... cramps are making comeback. I'd better finish before I write something REALLY embarrassing and personal.

All I have to do is Dream.

I think people get appetizers from a carnal greed that rests in the subconscious of all humans.

I'm confused, too. I probably shouldn't have copied it, but it was from an independent study I had to grade for my psychology teacher of a boss. Some dude wrote that as to why people get appetizers while they wait for their main meal.

I know.

I'm supposed to be working on a biology paper right now. Sick sick sick.

Okay so super weird super vivid dream I had last night. I was in this huge high school, like in the middle of the night--it was pretty dark inside, with mostly a few lights and lamps from outside keeping it lit. All of a sudden, one of these freaky monsters (that look like the ones that attack Hellboy near the beginning of the movie in the subways) starts attacking this woman, who must've been around 60. I think she was one of the janitors or something. She struggles with it, and staggers towards the steps, and if I recall correctly, just falls--not down the stairs, but between them (kind of like those circular stairs you see in hotels and stuff).
Anyway, so I'm freaking out. Apparently there was some sort of plague of them suddenly, and the area, and possibly world had to get prepared to fend them off. I run home, and about six other people--Shawn, Rachel, Amy, this 50-something yr old investigator guy of the Elders from the Newcastle ward named Albert, and possibly Heather and/or Janay. The others are a bit fuzzy. Anyway we're at home now--the group of us with just my mom, and we're trying to board up the house so these freaky creatures can't get in. All of a sudden outside we just see this HUGE parade of kids--like between the ages of 3-10, marching, with picket signs, and dressed up in Halloween costumes (what can this all MEAN?!). Their message was basically that we were all overreacting and that there WAS no threat. We went to Walmart, considering hiding out in there among the stalls, but the monsters were there, too, and it seemed a bit too exposed and easy. We went back home (actually I think the Walmart incident was before the protest march) and even though we thought we had locked everything up, we turned and there were all these little kids--the same ones! They were mad at us, and we realized that they were crawling down through the chimney. We had to scoot them outside, and close the fireplace door thing so they couldn't get in any more. And then we had to figure out where the safest place was to hide. In reality, we do have a sort of dirt room in my old house--just an unfinished room at the bottom of the house that has a dirt floor, hence the name. We went down there, which was a lot bigger then it is in real life. And there was this sort of makeshirt house/trailer looking thing. We go inside it to hide, and there's this huge cow inside. (WHAT DOES THIS ALL MEAN?!?!) And all this crap and weird white thick foamy liquid on the ground. We clean it and push it all outside and sit there inside arguing and talking about whether or not we really were in danger. Oooh I think Annalisa might have been there too. Hmm.... anyway, I think I go back upstairs to talk to my mom for a minute, and I come back down and they had put down the frame, and folded it up, and now were inside this tent-like thing. They said it was more comfortable that way and they were still safe. I think we just stayed there for a long time and then woke up.

ANOTHER DREAM I had, which was from last night, told in prose:

Kari says:
I had the WORST dream last night. IT was so bad that I woke up from it, which I NEVER do [at 3:30ish]
Janay says:
what was it??
Kari says:
I dreamed that we had this small family reunion, but there were members from both sides of the family (which doesn't happen)
Kari says:
And I brought Shawn
Kari says:
and for some reason we brought Nicole as well
Janay says:
haha
Kari says:
and people kept going up to me and telling me how BEAUTIFUL she was [gee thanks]
Kari says:
and we all ate dinner together
Kari says:
and afterwards she got up, said she was feeling sick, and went to the bathroom and just started throwing up
Kari says:
Shawn explained by saying that she hadn't had a full meal in months, so her stomach wasn't used to it
Kari says:
she was resting for awhile, and Shawn was watching TV, so I went over and sat on his lap.
Kari says:
Then Nicole came out, and I saw her and started to get up so as to avoid an awkward scene, but Shawn threw me off even faster, so it seemed like he was trying to hide the fact that we had a relationship
Janay says:
Kari!
Janay says:
That's so sad!
Kari says:
it gets worse
Kari says:
anyway a little bit later
Kari says:
I was sitting down watching TV
Kari says:
and then he like totally starts wrestling with her! I think to cheer her up for feeling so sick. And he picks her up and throws her on the couch
Kari says:
and joins her on it and just goofs around with her --TOTALLY flirting and laughing and all over each other
Kari says:
and I'm sitting RIGHT THERE
Kari says:
so I get so frustrated that I get up, place the channel changer where their heads are on the couch, and go downstairs and curl up on the couch and I totally just LOSE IT
Kari says:
and I'm bawling, and then I hear something behind me
Kari says:
and it's some lady that's family but I have no idea who she is and I just say "OH CRAP" and she's like "um... is everything okay?" and I said "oh I'm fine, just PMSing" and she's like "Yeah I know how that goes." and she leaves me alone. And then I wake up.
Janay says:
sick!
Kari says:
it hurt sooooooooooooooooooo much!
Janay says:
well I hope you're going to be mad at Shawn all day for what he did during your dream!
Kari says:
I'm certainly feeling a bit distant!

The only thing I remember from the dream I had after that one was it looked like I had some sort of huge sliver in the side of my right thumb. I cut off the top layer of skin (not to bleed, just a surface cut), and started to pull it out. about an inch of this blackish plastic stick came out. I thought that was it but then I looked closer and realized there was more there. I kind of run my finger up against my thumb to try to squeeze it out and finally there was enough that I could get a grip on it, and I pulled it out and it was a navy blue crayola crayon, without the wrapper! WHAT CAN THIS POSSIBLY MEAN?!?!

I really hope I start surfing the crimson wave soon, or I'm going to have to face the possibility that I'm manic depressive.

*sneeze*cough*hack*sniffle*

So I was in bed asleep by like 9:30 last night. My body, to express its eternal gratitude and appreciation subsequently thanked me in the morning by greeting me with a sore throat. And now three hours later, my nose is ever so slightly starting to run. Ihatemylife.
Beyond that life is good. Since Josh and I aren't really talking any more, I still have his sore throat spray that I borrowed like two months ago from the LAST time I was sick, so I was able to use that this morning. So I guess the moral of the story is sometimes undependable self-centered thoughtless friends DO come in handy.

I keep having weird dreams. Last night I dreamed that I was in the forest, and there were all these little tiny creatures (SOOO cute!) where their body was a leaf, and their head was a raindrop, with little features on it and everything, but then one rainy night their biggest foe appeared. It was SO freaky! In this meadow the ground started to swirl as if it were made of water--proper building up of waves of grass and dirt and everything--very cool but freaky. The thing itself was like a giant version of them, and it would attack by picking up the little guys and extracting the water from their heads, so all that was left was their leaf body. It was so sad, because the main little guy that was showing us around and helping us was one of the first to be, I don't know, eaten? Stupid me set my alarm earlier this morning than I really needed to, so I woke up before the whole thing was resolved. I remember at one point during the dream I was hiding under a piano bench.

New Year Resolutions are going surprisingly well so far! Hopefully this illness doesn't completely suck all my will to live, which being sick usually does. Sigh.

Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.

Oh my goodness I'm so pleased with myself! And not just because I got new mascara so now my eyelashes are discernible again. I had no idea they were there! It's funny how dramatic the difference is when you get new mascara. I hadn't realized how dried out my old stuff was. I was taking a bunch of pictures of myself with my folk's digital camera, and I took the only remotely passable photo and cropped it to the only passable portion, hence the photo. My heart. Anyway, I'm so pleased with myself! I was so shoot... what's the word? It's been so long absent from my vocabulary I've completely forgotten it.... I was PRODUCTIVE! That's it! I woke up at like 8:30 to find a missed phone call from my coworker. Apparently we were due back to work on WEDNESDAY. Pshyeah right. She wasn't feeling well and I hadn't gotten any normal sleep for the past three or four days (Sleepness nights and six hour naps during the day...), plus with having a strict diet of angel hair pasta or rice (and contrary to popular belief, olive oil is NOT a suitable substitute for butter *shudder*) due to a near empty fridge and cabinet, my eating habits were even worse than normal. So I gracefully declined from going to work yesterday, but came today. Anyway, I resigned to my post on the couch to watch movies. Everything was okay at first--stuck in Mona Lisa Smile--huge Maggie Gyllenhaul fan, even if she does play a slut with a heart in that movie, and any movie with Topher Grace is okay by me, and the guy that fell for the cello player--oh didn't he just break your heart when he looked at her with so much hurt in his eyes?! Man alive! Anyway sorry I digress. The problem started when I got the utility bill. I won't say how much it was, but our average summer utility bill was at least a fifth of it. Isn't that SICK! Then I stuck in The Prince and Me (desperate! The only redeemable part in that movie was the makeout scene in the library--if that's not a steamy place to make out then I don't know what is) and got so upset by the end of it that I didn't even finish it (and I ALWAYS finish movies unless sleep prevents it so), I just got up, freaked out and started cleaning. I tidied the bathroom, cleaned the kitchen and did the dishes, the dining room, stuck all the Christmas trash in the garage (our trash is overflowing so it's going to take a couple of weeks to dwindle), cleaned the front room, did my laundry, cleaned my room (which took like four hours because I organised quite a bit as well), crocheted quite a bit, even painted my toenails and shaved my legs (unheard of in Kariland--especially the toenails part), and sewed on fourteen buttons on my jacket that mysteriously had 9 of its 14 buttons break in the course of two weeks. I read my scriptures, beat Mario and Luigi: Partners in Time, I threw away SOOO much stuff, too, which for me is always a breath of fresh air. I hate hoarding stuff. Part of that being a sideproduct of my mission where we would visit clinical certifiable packrats where they just had piles and piles of just CRAP EVERYWHERE, and would refuse to throw ANY of it away, no matter how gross or useless or dumb it was, and it really freaked me out. And I hate clutter anyway, so WHEW. I watched the Phantom of the Opera last night while I was sewing on those buttons, too. So... is it just me or is the Phantom like LOADS hotter than Raoue7QL? Especially the kiss between Christine and the Phantom. Perhaps I just like a little danger. I just felt the urge to braid Raoul's hair and put ribbons in it. We won't go into the urge I felt for the Phantom. Even with that disfiguring scar (and perhaps growing up in a church where we believe in the resurrection, so I always have that in mind...) he was still loads dreamier than his competition. *Holy crapping hot dang*--especially after finding out that he was the same actor from Dear Frankie. In closing, I salute the Honeymooners. Alice, you're the greatest.

Christmas Pictures. A bit doctored because... well. Isn't it obvious?

Me and the Stacey.


My Gabe and my Daddy.

The other two... well I couldn't really do anything about that. *Cringe* I'm just kidding. I just lost patience on doing their pictures and two thirds of the family ain't bad.

Sarcasm is losers trying to bring winners down to their level.

I just wanted an excuse to use that quote. AND this one:

Can a heart still break after it's stopped beating?

Courtesy of Rachel's blogspot.

The name cookfourth comes from when my cell phone stopped working, or was working sporadically, so I would be in the middle of typing out a text message and the screen would freeze but it would still take in comments, and I wrote a text message to Janay when this happened and wrote out what I thought was cool, huh and it came out cook 4th. Itrysohard. She was so confused, too. Those were the days.

My daily recommendation is to eat wheat thins with little marshmallows. So freaking good, don't question me on it.

And to look up the You've Got Mail Spoof on youtube.

the pain the PAIN

So... I've got horrifyingly bad cramps. Well that comment just eliminated all the guys reading so now I can talk about what I meant to. I left church after the first two meetings because of my cramps, and got carsick in a record five minutes playing video games. It's weird because I played a different video game for over two hours in the car just a few days ago and didn't get sick. At all. And that was Seattle and freeway driving, both crazy, especially when you hit traffic. So... was it because it was Sunday and playing Deep Labyrinth probably wasn't the wisest Sunday activity, and punishment for leaving early since I was doubled over in pain (and yes I took Midol!) Or is Mario and Luigi: Partners in Time just less motion-sickness inducing since the graphics aren't as remarkable and it takes less brain power? Oh will we ever know?

Life is good.

And it actually is. Can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm actually looking forward to returning to Utah. *shudder* Well to my friends and to a new semester in Utah. Hopefully by then the snow will be mostly gone.

You're on to me!

I love It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I watched TV literally all day today. Except when I watched Radio, which is technically a movie that we stuck in. It's okay though. I was surfing the crimson wave something awful. And sick. And tired. I never thought that continual banging would make me so anxious and stressful for no real reason. I have nothing to be anxious or stressful ABOUT. I had flutterings all over, spasms in my side, beatings in my heart... Besides the constant threat of being attacked by Kyle, which he does more than a 23 year old twin brother should. I love My Name is Earl, too. I was considering pinching it from Kyle, but he would notice. He's exactly like Earl's brother in the show, so he watches it a lot for tips on how to be more... Kyle-like I guess? Kyle is a cross between him and Chris Farley. On purpose. Wouldn't stop quoting "Look at the pretty gas! It's making me sad!" Embarrassed to admit that I'm cracking up just thinking about it. Kyle needs to work on his laugh though. He changes it every couple of years or so and it's getting worse instead of better. Gabe has the cutest laugh I've ever heard though. Cheesy but it's my favorite noise to hear. Always unexpected, but he finds the most random improbable things funny. So today it was true that I always watch TV, but most of the time I average one or two TV shows a week. Not by choice though. We won't talk about how many movies I average (even repeats of movies) a week. Out of desperation How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days has really started to grow on me. I've really started to develop an appreciation for Kate Hudson. Especially after Almost Famous. Hopefully my mom won't notice until it's too late that I've borrowed a lot of her movies. Most for VHS so I don't know HOW I'm going to watch them, but we'll figure it out. We must. We. I was flipping through channels and came across a movie where Kate Beckinsale and Frances McDormand were making out in a pool with another dude (taking turns...). Shawn, you can imdb it. I know how girl on girl action turns you on. Don't miss TV as much as I used to. Is that a good thing? I think the movie is called Laurel Canyon. It has Christian Bale in it, too. Five minutes of it was enough for me, even considering all the amazing people in it. Sigh... I think my favorite character in Love Actually, next to Laura Linney (doesn't it kill you when Karl dances with her so closely and plays with a lock of her hair, and then she just slowly smiles...?), is that singer's manager. Don't you just want to give him a cuddle? He BREAKS my heart! Pht pht pht pht pht pht pht. Ask me if you don't know what that noise means, but any self-respecting friend of mine should know by now. Amy and I watched Love Actually last night. Wanted to watch When Harry Met Sally as well, but stayed too late over at Lyndy's house. Cool huh. I wish life was more neat and tidy. And Kari-friendly. *CLASSIC*

Special Blogger for Janay

Upon request, here is my blog. Why is Kari stupid, you ask? We may never know. We can only refer to the symptoms and endless examples that only scratch the surface of the unknown bottomless pit that is the stupidity of Kari. You want some of these examples? Either because I’m that nice or that stupid, I will acquiesce to your request.
1. I’ve been crazy about the same guy for nearly four years. He doesn’t know.2. He stands me up on at least a monthly basis. I still let him get away with it.3. I keep expecting him to get his act together.4. I keep hoping that he’ll ignore the two gorgeous girls that want him, and pick me instead.5. I keep applying the B.S. through everything principle of high school, although my grades clearly reflect the fallacy of utilizing such an idea beyond public school.6. My back really hurts. If I do daily exercises, it feels better. Once I actually did the exercises on my mission and my back stopped hurting. And so I stopped doing the exercises.7. I still somehow believe in the idea that personality will get you farther than looks.Mission moments of stupidity1. I wore two different shoes—one brown, one black for a whole day on accident.2. I shot an elder in the eye with a rubber band.3. Because of me, missionaries are no longer allowed to play foozball at the institute building in Leeds, England.4. I killed Kenny (the car) the day we got him.5. I locked the keys in the car twice (although this was Walter). Actually the second time I didn’t, but I thought I had, so we spent thirty minutes trying to break into a car that didn’t actually have the keys in it.Post-mission1. This was over general conference. I asked Sterling at the conference center where the SLC temple was, and it was literally RIGHT IN FRONT OF US. Cool, huh.2. ITRYSOHARD. That’s stupid.These are just a few of Kari’s moments of stupidity. I hope you enjoyed them as much as they embarrass(ed) me!
Kari

everything deleted (not as destructive as you thought)

Friday, December 22, 2006
Princess Serendipity (or Feather, depending on the day)
Wow, this has been one of the craziest weeks ever, the pinnacle being yesterday. Where do I begin...Well, first of all, I was planning on getting to the airport by bus. Three hours and three transfers and only 1.50. Although it's FREEZING outside. Anyway, I was commissioned to paint a portrait of my aunt Terri by my uncle, and I sent him an E-mail about it, and just on a whim he E-mails me back and asks if I need a ride to the airport! And called me a dork for not asking him sooner. And said he would pick me up when I go back to Provoland. How SWEET is that? Anyway, I go home afterwards, and I have Janay's car for a week, and there was a TICKET on her dashboard. Expired registration *not my fault PHEW but sucks to be her.* Being awfully distracted, having said good bye to my boyfriend just the night before, having loads of essays still to write, a 1/3 more of a portrait to paint, packing to do... I go to the library to pick up books for my big essay, and I.... LOCK MY KEYS IN THE CAR!!!! Man, you should've seen me, although I was eternally grateful that no one I knew was there. I was so stressed out--my English final was in about two hours as well, so the tears were starting to flow more freely than I would've preferred. I call Rachel, and gratefully she agreed to take me to Janay's to pick up her spare key (which on a whim she had divulged its existence to me the week before), and then because Sarah, Janay's roommate and text messaged me "surprise b*tch" like two months ago (funniest line ever from It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia), I had her number (Yanaj wasn't answering), and was able to call and she was ACTUALLY HOME, and was about to leave in an hour for the airport! Could I GET any luckier? So thirty minutes later I was back at the library with a key. I go home, and decide to walk to campus. Because of this, I find my favorite hat that I had purchased on my mission and incidentally lost four days ago just hanging on a fence post! I had given up all hope in finding it, and even had begun questioning the integrity of BYU off-campus students. They've been eyeing that hat for weeks. Little did I know... Then I walk to my final, and run into Jeff McDonald, and had learned earlier that we were taking the same flight! And he asked me for a ride to the airport, since apparently his dad was picking us both up. It's so funny, but if this had happened a few years ago, or even over the summer I would've died from ecstasy. I have had one of the longest-running crush on that boy (since the fifth grade), but I wasn't really looking forward to it. I suppose there was another guy that I would've preferred to sit next to... anyway, it wasn't nearly as awkward as I thought it was going to be (Jeff and I are very different--I find him hilarious, but awhile ago realized that many of his 'jokes' are unintentional. Whoops! Another person I've probably made completely self-conscious. Bwa ha haha). He had already heard about Shawn, too. I think my mom is his mom's visiting teacher or vice versa or something. Word certainly gets around! He was cheeky and asked what the forecast was for our future. Fortunately, this gave me leave to press him for details about his last girlfriend, a girl from our stake. And a very unlikely couple. In the past I had had a bad habit of constantly accusing him of stating the obvious ("there goes Jeff, stating the obvious!"), and I didn't do it ONCE this time around him, no matter how tempted I was on so many occasions. He's gotten a lot better in that regard. By the way, I got three hours of sleep last night, hence my horrible grammar and sporadic story telling. So I take the final, go back home and watch a movie (A lady from my class even took me home! She said she wanted to feel like Christmas through service, and hadn't been able to do it until then, and so thanked me profusely. Good thing I'm such a philanthropist. The sacrifices I make, isn't it.), then felt prompted to go to campus to write my essays until waiting until the morning of, which I was most grateful for, since I got all my small papers done and half of my big essay before I had to leave at 11. Which made me grateful that my professor had insisted on hard copies instead of me e-mailing them, since that would've meant I would be working on it right now instead of working on this--I then proceeded to spend the next four and a half hours slaving away at that painting, which was a lot more fun than it should have been. Anyway, how's THAT for a crazy day! Had to be up at 7 the next day to finish the essay, got it done by 9:30, went to Arby's, returned accursed library books and MATCHSTICK MEN! SUCH A GOOD MOVIE!!! went home, and while watching the rest of Da Vinci code and then School of Rock, I packed. Words cannot describe the euphoria I felt after I finished all my homework and the portrait. Lush lush lush. And Mykal raved about them this morning *whew.* At this point I honestly don't care any more what my grades are, but am excited to start over with new classes. I love starting things, have difficulties with the ending part. Watch Stranger than Fiction. That was a FANTASTIC movie. In so many ways. Can't stop listening to the soundtrack which serendipitously ended up on the same CD as Shawn's music that he wrote. So there are two songs that I constantly alternate while I walk to work. Anyway, that's about it. Have a very Merry Christmas!!! And a Happy New Year! So many resolutions to make, but I'll get around to it later. Probably after the new year.Toots Pedersen
Posted by Toots at 9:03 PM 0 comments
Labels: coincidence?
Monday, December 18, 2006
I don't want to be a baby!
Back by popular demand (and empty (?!) threats) is my blog spot. After a brief hiatus from writing my blogs (life has a funny way of getting in the way of your true priorities--like my all-important blog spot) I've recognized the complete and utter necessity of keeping it updated. Much has happened these past couple of weeks. I met someone. Um... four years ago. My best friend Shawn and I became officially official a week ago Wednesday (I don't know how to put it without it sounding completely and utterly high school and cheesy and corny and trite, but there you have it. We're a couple). Wasn't it about... time? Do you like how I have half of my entries within parentheses (I sure do!)? Man, my hands really hurt from the cold. I'm getting so old. Or so I've been told. By someone bold. It's better than silver and gold. The streets need to be patrolled. Okay, I'll stop. So, I've been really happy lately. Intensely brilliantly fantastically happy. Which is weird and new and different for me. I mean, I consider myself to be a pretty decently happy person. Except in the boy department, but that's to be expected after 23 years of nothing but leftover flowers, requests for friends' phone numbers and spending slow songs in the bathroom or at the refreshment table, and dates coming out of the closet. Anyway, things happened super fast (if four years is considered speedy!) and I'm babbling. His fish, Clark, died three years ago, and to cheer him up I made him that pastel drawing, and also a cartoon strip that he threw away that was AMAZING. Shawn has cool roommates, too. So weird random insignificant trivial things I like about Shawn: the way he holds the steering wheel when he drives--I don't know what it is, but I feel instantly safe (at least I did until he told me about the huge car accident he was in at home); the way his zip-up hoodies smell like him still--even after I've had them and worn them for a few days (basically the main reason why I steal his hoodies from him. Bwa ha ha); how cute he is when he hasn't shaved for a few days (although not so cute against my skin *ouch*); the fact that he knows when he's told a really bad joke and can take a good teasing (essential in the Pedersen family) BOOO SHAWN!; there's a dude here at the office that I SWEAR is the guy that played Elijah in The Widow of Zarapheth, and the inn keeper in the Good Samaritan from the In the Service of Your God DVD (wow I'M not a return missionary! Sorry, brief intermission); when he laughs at something unexpectedly (like he didn't see the joke coming and it caught him off guard); when he wears a collared button-up shirt under a sweater *dang*; his hair--and that he lets me play with it; when he teases Tyler; he still likes me after knowing so much crap about me and how I can be sometimes; the fact that he doesn't seem to fully comprehend just how awe-mazing he is; his taste in movies/books/music and that he doesn't always agree with my own (shows he isn’t actually perfect, contrary to popular belief, considering my taste is immaculate); when he plays the Kikujiro song on the piano (ihateyou!); the fact that he likes it when I wear my glasses... and I'm going to puke this is all horrifyingly corny and cheesy. I have a low tolerance for this kind of thing usually. Unless it's in When Harry Met Sally. Anyway, haven't gotten a lot of sleep lately. Haven't had the daily requirement of having good delicious dreams like I normally do to compensate for the failures of day-to-day life. Quite the opposite now isn't it. AWWWWWW....... anyway Shawn ilikeyou! May the force and all the rest of it. (I like you, too, Janay)
Posted by Toots at 7:41 AM 2 comments
Friday, December 08, 2006
I've known these chicks since I was two (and they still like me!)!
Creative Political WritingEugene Judy, a professional genealogical researcher, discovered that Hillary Clinton's great-great uncle, Remus Rodham, a fellow lacking in character, was hanged for horse stealing and train robbery in Montana in 1889. The only known photograph of Remus shows him standing on the gallows.On the back of the picture is this inscription: "Remus Rodham; horse thief, sent to Montana Territorial Prison 1885, escaped 1887, robbed the Montana Flyer six times. Caught by Pinkerton detectives, convicted and hanged in 1889."Judy emailed Hillary Clinton @NY.Gov for comments. Hillary's staff of professional image adjustors cropped Remus's picture, scanned it, enlarged the image, and edited it with image processing software so that all that's seen is a head shot.The accompanying biographical sketch is as follows:"Remus Rodham was a famous cowboy in the Montana Territory. His business empire grew to include acquisition of valuable equestrian assets and intimate dealings with the Montana railroad. Beginning in 1883, he devoted several years of his life to service at a government facility, finally taking leave to resume his dealings with the railroad. In 1887, he was a key player in a vital investigation run by the renowned Pinkerton Detective Agency. In 1889, Remus passed away during an important civic function held in his honor when the platform upon which he was standing collapsed... :"
Posted by Toots at 9:15 AM 2 comments
Labels: Poly ticks
Saturday, November 18, 2006
the best things in life are free (except for a can of beans)
Hi Kari,No problem...been there - done that! (more than once actually) I'm proud of you for paying off your short term loan. Get used to loans and mortgages, they're some of the more difficult parts of becoming a big person. I don't think a boy becomes a man until he can stare marriage and a mortgage in the face. I suppose that's part of leaving girlhood too...I wouldn't know about that, obviously, but when you've faced down both of those - you're not a kid anymore.I remember when I was single in Vancouver; I was broke and I had one can of green beans left in my cupboard; it was Wednesday morning and payday wasn't until Friday. After having no breakfast and lunch I ate the can of beans for my Wednesday night dinner. There's a cosmic rule in the universe that if you're single and hungry - no one will invite you over to eat...ever! If your cupboard is full and your stomach is full everyone invites you over.By Thursday night I was so hungry that I couldn't hack it anymore so I "borrowed" some tithing money I had in "safekeeping" until I intended to give it to the Bishop on Sunday and went to a restaurant. I had wrestled with myself all day Thursday over doing this because I knew that I had set the money aside so it was already the Lord's money - which, by extension, made it wrong to use it but I was so hungry that I finally rationalized that I could pay it back on Friday - so it wasn't "really" wrong.Anyway, I went to the restaurant and ordered a huge steak dinner. By then I had only eaten the can of green beans in the past 48 hours so I was so hungry that I wolfed the restaurant food down way too fast and immediately felt sick, ran in the restaurant bathroom and puked it all up. They didn't offer me a refund.To make a long story even longer, as soon as my stomach settled down I was hungry again and out a bunch of money that I had wasted and couldn't spare. Making matters worse, I felt horribly guilty about using the tithing money - although I did pay it back on Friday. I still felt "less" for the experience...I had thought I was tougher than that and I expected that I would hold out until Friday and it would make a great faith promoting story.One good thing, other than one more stupid incident, I did get more careful about budgeting following that fiasco. If memory serves, I was broke because I had miscalculated how much a date would cost (with a girl I didn't even like that much.) I didn't even have a good excuse.See where you get it from??Love,The source of half your genes.Yer Dad(picture of my Dad when he was my age at a Youth Conference type thing)
Posted by Toots at 8:55 AM 2 comments
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Sometimes you just gotta stick it to the man.
This was from part of an E-mail I sent to my friend Camden (a returned missionary from my mission):

I nearly got in an argument with a member of the bishopric. My calling, if I didn't tell you, was the Relief Society Secretary (which is dumb, because I never pay attention to activities--even when I TRY! And I never know what's going on, so...), we had a meeting on Sunday to discuss the R.S. with a member of the bishopric, but it was just me and Jeanette--who was recently called as the 2nd counselor, so we are both fresh in our callings. But anyway, activity is a huge issue in the Relief Society. Many girls have stopped coming to R.S. or even to church. The 1st counselor of the bishopric made the comment that maybe these antisocial or struggling girls were as such because they were struggling in their spirituality as well. EXCUSE ME?! I was TICKED. I have NEVER felt like I fit in at church--all through growing up and stuff, and even now as a return missionary, I HATE going to church activities (especially Enrichment! Is that wrong?) and I do NOT look forward to going to Relief Society. The nerve THE NERVE. He said maybe these girls just didn't know how to study or pray as well as they could and so it wasn't a worthiness issue but it just was a sensitivity to the spirit issue or something like that. EXCUSE ME?! Some people are just awkward introverts (*cough ME cough*) and it has nothing to do with our relationship with the Lord. Sometimes it is a sign of pride or selfishness, but severe outgoing-ness can be a sign as well. We're talking levels here, people. Anyway, I gave him a piece of my mind. I don't argue with people (even when they're wrong--this means YOU Shawn), and I rarely even challenge people's positions or opinions, but when he asked me what my thoughts were, I was VERY NICE and VERY TACTFUL as I told him where to put it. Just kidding. I just said that they may be struggling with their testimony but it's dangerous to make such a blanket judgment against the girls. It can be VERY hard to participate at church. Goodness knows I never do! Except when making a complete idiot out of myself when it's my turn to conduct. And crap I'm going to have to teach in Relief Society next month. Secretary being like a third counselor my FOOT (just kidding Bonnie! I love being in the Presidency!) Plus the ward I'm in is REALLY preppy. Which equals not Kari-friendly. The girls actually wear jewelry in my ward! And lots of it! And their hair is color-treated and highlighted. On a regular basis. I can't compete with that! My mom yanked me inside a hair salon the day after I got home from my mission and made me get highlights. So now I know how fast my hair grows--it's grown about three inches in the past six months. See, roots sometimes can be a good thing! Anyway, stepping off the soapbox. I don't think he understood the depth of my disbelief or irritation at what he said, but he could tell it ruffled a few feathers. Not as good at hiding my true feelings as well as I used to be. Either that or I have just stopped caring what people think of me as much as I used to. In any case, Itrysohard!
Posted by Toots at 9:53 AM 3 comments
Thursday, November 09, 2006
We speak each other's unspoken language... fluently...
WHYAMISOAWKWARD?! So... there's this guy. This happened a couple of weeks ago now, and I promised I would blog the occurrence, but never got around to it. Itrysohard. Anyway, his name (the guy, not the occurrence) is Ben. The first time I technically met him (although I doubt he recalls it) was right outside my American Novel class. He was sitting down talking to a classmate, and he's good friends with Rachel, with whom I'm friends with, and Rachel and I were walking together so she introduced us. How's THAT for a poorly constructed sentence? And I got into a tiny argument with him. Not an argument per se, more of a cheeky discussion (probably taken seriously by him, since he didn't know me), on drilling for oil in Alaska. You see, I'm totally for it, even from an environmental standpoint. Most drilling can be done underground, so the actual land would remain largely unaffected. Anyway, I guess he looked at it more from an economic standpoint and politely disagreed, looking mildly confused as to why this curly-haired freak (I had curled my hair that day) was talking to him, especially about something that had little relevance to anything. To defend myself, he had brought it up--I think he was writing a paper on it. The last time I had actually read anything about it was from before my mission, so I was B.S.-ing most of it anyway for a giggle. Welcome to the world of the easily amused! Anyway, the next day was Rachel's Halloween party, which last minute I agreed to go to for moral support in the event that her crush came (stupid jerk was a complete no-show). Anyway, Ben came as well... with his girlfriend. I thought she was right cute, albeit very quiet. Rachel wasn't even there for the first thirty minutes, picking people and things up, so I had to do the dreaded try to get to know people thing (the choice to combat or surrender to the silence--that is the question), which I have SUCH a talent for: "So, what's your major? Where're you from? What's your favourite breakfast cereal? Which Power Ranger do you most identify with? What are your views on drilling for oil in Alaska?" Doing the get to know you thing is completely different when you're a missionary by the way, because at least THEN you're constantly trying to segue it into the gospel somehow. For example--"Oh so marshmallow mateys is your favorite cereal? Well, that reminds me of a story in the Book of Mormon about a prophet and his brother and how they sailed to the Americas in barges, which was tight like unto a dish." Anyway, I digress. A week later I found out that Ben had broken up with his girlfriend. Having mentioned to Rachel once (or twice...) that I thought Ben was proper cute, Rachel suggested to him in passing that she could set him and me up. After getting the go ahead from me (and telling me EVERYTHING, even though Ben told her not to), she gave him my number. Now here's where it gets... untidy.

After dying (living living dead) all week waiting for this stupid phone call, I was at the international cinema watching "Dear Frankie" with Rachel when he finally calls. Even though I had my phone out JUST IN CASE, I didn't see it until it was too late that he called. Incidentally, I still have his message on my phone, two weeks later, because it's THAT endearing. And guys usually don't have the guts to use the word "date" when asking me to do stuff, but he was very forthcoming. Anyway, I try calling him back TWICE, but both times it just rings and rings. About 30 minutes after the last call, he calls me back. And starts talking about a textbook. Trying to sell it to me. I'm so confused. Actually, I just thought he was kidding, so I just played along, asking what edition it was, how much it was going to cost and stuff. Even mentioned I might have to fast and pray about it. I was quite pleased with myself for being able to play along for so long, but I was growing weary of the charade, so I kept trying to get him to crack, but NOTHING. Not even a chuckle or anything! I thought *dang* this guy is GOOD! Finally, he's like, "Well, let me know if you want it or not," says goodbye and HANGS UP THE PHONE!!! That's when I began to suspect that something was amiss. My roommate was sitting next to me and we both just started freaking out. I realized if it WAS a joke, I was the only one in on it. Five minutes pass (with me expecting him to call and say, "haha just kidding" but NOTHING) and ultimately I resolved to send him a text message saying "wait...so that was a joke, right? ~Kari (Pedersen, Rachel's friend). He calls me back and just says how big of an idiot he was and how around the same time as me he had called someone about selling his book and just left a message for them (who turned out to be a he, in the end). I'm HORRIFYINGLY awkward over the phone, always have been, and always intend to be (surprisingly it comes in handy at times), but that broke the ice, so I wasn't agonizing over what I should say in the event that he *gasp* stops talking or a change of direction in the conversation is required. Anyway, we did a group thing. This is a really long blog spot, so I'll talk about how the date itself went another time.
Yesterday someone complimented me on my jacket! Just a perfect stranger, it made me feel right tingly.
Sorry my grammar and such is so bad. I'm a tinge tired like.




Posted by Toots at 10:51 AM 0 comments
Thursday, November 02, 2006
DON'T MOVE. STAY where you ARE.
So yeah. I pretty much have the best dad ever created... ever... of all time. I received this E-mail this morning in response to my last entry.
Hi Kari,To quote Mark Twain, "The rumors of my death are greatly exaggerated"...but point well taken. Loved the cartoon and appreciate the good sentiment behind it. You should do more cartooning. Not unlike you, I'm sure, I go through periods when I care more about my health and well-being than I do the rest of the time. Can't help it...life goes in cycles and so do I...like you girls quitting chocolate forever - or at least until the next craving hits...:>)If I do happen to croak prematurely so that I'm sending you down your kids from heaven rather than greeting them here with you when they come...it won't be on purpose, believe me. I love you too much and I'm too selfish to miss a miraculous occasion like that. We can influence our fate, but regrettably we can't determine it. My karma...I'd get my blood pressure down, lose weight, write a best seller, Mom and I would buy our new house, pay cash for it and be happy there and then we'd find out that you and your hubby are expecting a baby and I'd be so pleased about that, that I'd absent-mindedly walk in front of a bus. Hello-o-o-o-o...this is Yer Dad speaking!!I hope you're busy and well. Mom says your love life is unrelentingly disappointing. It'll probably stay that way until you stop hanging out with these silly "boys" you have as buddies and find yourself a man. You might even have to go to social things you normally wouldn't to check out the men. I remember how fed up Stacey was with the whole scene at BYU (i.e. the male population) but that all changed the day she met Jared. Any nose-picking boy can jump out of an airplane. It takes a real man to face raising a family and signing up for a 30-year mortgage. (I'm paraphrasing Roseanne Barr) Give it time and try to be patient. He's out there...and so will I be for as long as I can be.I love you,Yer Dad
Posted by Toots at 7:34 AM 1 comments
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
The Fat Man Walks Alone
Here's a picture of a doll my mommy made. Isn't it AMAZING! I was blown away. This is what we're going to be making--us girls--when we go home for Christmas. I hate dolls, they give me the creeps, ignoring VERY few exceptions, but there is nothing in my personal creed and crusade against the creepy things that dictates that I can't MAKE dolls. Isn't she so amazingly talented? It blows me away. And makes me sick. I blow chunks at least once a day (and usually around the same time) in her general direction to convey my utter horrifying disgust at her outstanding skills. Good thing I take after her more than my Dad. Actually I don't, except for the fine motor skills of our hands. Then I do. I mean, what?! Speaking of the Fat Man, I love my Dad more than anything, so when something recently was brought to my attention concerning him and his well-being, I was forced to act. And so I do. And did. I drew a cartoon, which has been included below.
Desperate Times call for Desperate Measures.
So apparently, my Dad stopped caring sometime last week. He's completely given up on eating healthy (or I guess feeling guilty when he eats crap, but if he's anything like me--well I got this particular trait from him, so... he'll feel guilty anyway) or exercising. He just is sick of it all, and has stopped. The cartoon to the left conveys the utter disgust and horror I feel towards him (although I'm pretty sure I maintain even more unhealthy habits compared to him, but it's okay because I'm 23 and I can get away with it for the time being. Why should I feel guilty for taking advantage of such a wonderful situation? Gotta milk it while it lasts! I learned that from my Mommy).
Hope you guys have a happy Halloween! And if you were wondering, yes, I did remember to wear my amazing bracelet. I had an insane weekend. Found out my sister may have a tumor in her ear. Good times. I told her I didn't care for the news at all--wasn't one bit into it. And it was a good thing she doesn't live here, or I would've been forced to puke into her ear as a protective measure. I was thinking about going into medicine.
I also ran into Ammon this weekend. TWICE. He was the dude that gave me back my own number and said he didn't need it any more. Freshman year. And then we almost became a couple. But never mind. Either way, we had run into each other a couple of times this semester, just being able to chat for a few minutes, both times he gave me a hug. The second time I exchanged numbers with him, and asked if he wanted to join Janay and me for a movie at the International Cinema. He said he couldn't but anyway... On Friday I went to the most amazing play--"The Foreigner" It was amazing. But before we went in, I saw him. And this girl. And then I saw they were holding hands. And then he saw me. And CAME RIGHT OVER AND INTRODUCED HIS GIRLFRIEND. WOW. Good to know. Made me feel sooooooooooooooooooo stupid.
To make matters worse, I ran into him again at the library the next day. And he then insisted on grabbing a chair and sitting next to me to talk. Here is what he said.
Wasn't sure when to tell you about Melissa.
She's exactly like you.
I mention you to her sometimes, so I was really excited for her to meet you.
What do you think of her?
We've been going out for about seven weeks.
Are we like friends? Friends-acquaintances? (EXCUSE ME, I REFUSE TO DTR!!)
So, who's Shawn?
Do you have a fat lip? (Bicycle accident in the second grade had resulted in a bumpy scar on my upper lip. THANKS FOR NOTICING)
Do you ever see that guy any more? (Josh)
Help me with my lesson for Gospel Essentials.
Needless to say I lost any and all desire to do homework, especially at the Provo Library. So I ran to the DVD section, grabbed Princess Diaries 2 and Fever Pitch (I was in a daze, I didn't know what I was doing!!) went home and watched them.
Anyway, that was the gist of the conversation. Trying to block out most of it. Couldn't believe the cheek of it all. Anyway, Happy Halloween!
Posted by Toots at 10:35 AM 1 comments
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Housework won't kill you, but why take the chance?

Had a bit too much fun with Paintshop. Itrysohard. Anyway, here's another journal entry from around the same time as the previous one, just to dispel thoughts that I was a suicidal freshman. Also, it has a great sentence in it, of which I'm quite proud. It's italicized.
March 17, 2003
I'm watching Breaking Away right now. Goodness, I love this movie soooooo much. Oh, this is the last page to the screenplay of "The Winslow Boy:" (I had glued it in, but will type it here for the sake of the entry)
Sir Robert Morton: I wept today because right had been done.
Catherine: Not Justice?
Sir Robert Morton: No. Not Justice. Right. Easy to do Justice--very hard to do Right. Now, I must leave the witness box, I hope I shall see you again. One day, perhaps, in the House of Commons, up in the Gallery.
Catherine: Yes, Sir Robert. In the House of Commons, one day, but not up in the Gallery. Across the Floor. One day.
Sir R.M: You still pursue your Feminist activities?
Catherine: Oh, yes.
Sir R.M.: A pity. It's a lost cause.
Catherine: DO you really think so, Sir Robert? How little you know women. (Pause) Good-bye. I doubt that we shall meet again.
Sir Robert Morton: Oh. Do you really think so, Miss Winslow? (Pause) How little you know men.
FADE OUT.
I just think it's really hot (so is the movie). I love David Mamet (who adapted the play)--at least the two screenplays I've read of his. I love that sort of innuendo, if that's the word I want. That is romantic. Most movies nowadays--well the movie makers don't seem to realize that it's the unknown--the developing itself--the stolen, questioning glances that is romantic and hot and irresistible. It's not that disgusting immoral gratuitous sex. A sweet, hesitant kiss is acknowledgement enough to ascertain a reciprocality of feelings. Great Scott when are they going to recognize? They used to know, but it was lost along the way, accompanied by many other things like character development. One movie I just recently watched should be a beacon to others on pure, wholesome, well-written entertainment. Don't feel preached to, or manipulated. It's "Stolen Summer." A tear-jerker. I actually got up at eight and went to my Physical Science class. Pat on the back for Karpi. The President gave a Presidential Address today. I watched it in the basement."
"As if you could kill time without injuring eternity."
Posted by Toots at 10:55 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
It's that time of year again!
So, apparently my roommate Jessica was having a bad day today. How did I find out, you ask? Not from her! Her boyfriend (?--I'm not sure if they're official yet, but they are well on their way if not. He reminds me of A.C. Slater. And if you don't know who that is, we can't be friends) came over and dropped off some flowers to cheer her up. As sweet as that is, it was a gentle physical reminder of how big of a loser I am. Why is that you ask? Well, the only time I got flowers from a guy were when they were the dregs of him asking someone else out for the invitational dance at BYU. Nearly four years ago. I was looking through old journal entries, and I actually recorded this one. Here goes (Now mind you, I was a VERY dramatic 19 year old at the time, and have since grown so much more wise and mature and optimistic! Really.):March 18, 2003"So much happened yesterday. Having a hard time figuring out what I can learn from all this. I was online and all of a sudden this window pops up and a "REAL NERD ROCKS" starts IMing me. I hate talking to strangers (oh, and my screen name is Real Nerd) so I start threatening to block and/or warn them if they don't tell me who they are. They just respond with "Just please check your mailbox!" DT Invitational is coming up. I didn't know what to think. Jessica and I went down and there was a single rose in my mailbox with nothing more than my name and a room number on a connecting piece of paper. I go back to my room (I was honestly thinking that this was a stupid prank, nothing more, but I still hoped...) and tell them thanks and ask them again who it is and then my friend Nodrog starts talking to me online (suspicious) and I tell him about what happened and if it was guy then it was the first time I had ever been given a flower from a guy before, and how it probably was a prank and Nodrog finally confesses that it was from him and he calls me up and it turns out that he had bought a dozen roses, held on to one of them, given the eleven to Eikcaj and wrote on a mirror something like "in this mirror you'll see a dozen beautiful things." something like that, asking her to the invitational, and he had this extra rose he didn't know what to do with, so he just stuffed it in my mailbox and the rest is history. He wasn't intending it to be a prank or a joke or anything. He felt so bad about it. he just didn't realize how it looked apparently. Fallen victim yet again to the well intentions of others. Geez, to think, the first flower I ever got from a guy and it turns out to be a leftover from him asking another girl out. Ouch. I'm tired of hoping (and I mean the traditional definition, not the modern one), it hurts too much. I had such a difficult time controlling my voice and trying not to cry when he told me the truth. What I can learn from this, I don't know. I just lost it when I hung up the phone. Stupid me, thinking someone might actually be interested in going to a stupid dance with me. Oh well. Do the same thing I did for prom and do a movie night. I hate this. And then Nylyak comes home raving about her boyfriend and how it hurts her that all these guys that are basically infatuated with her are upset with her because she now has a boyfriend. I wanted to scream but I held my tongue. She didn't know. I just can't help but think that God's lowering my self-esteem and standards for others so much that I won't mind settling, that anyone is better than being alone. Hopefully (ugh) this isn't the case."I ended up helping my friends with their makeup and hair for the dance, and I think I did end up just watching movies. Anyway, three and a half years and a mission later... well the pumpkin says it all. Happy Halloween!*The names have been changed to protect the idiots or the innocent. My roommate is awesome and I love her, it was just bad timing on her part that day.
Posted by Toots at 5:19 PM 2 comments
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
It Could Be Kari

It Could be Kari is my slogan from http://www.thesurrealist.co.uk/slogan.cgi. Cool huh! I was feeling it. Anyway, yesterday rather sucked. Except for hanging out with Rachel, and then seeing Metropolis with Scratch Subtle, which was awesome. Seeing them. The movie... I'm not entirely sure how I feel about it. It's the anime 2001 version. I was just relieved that Kenichi lived... So I invited three different guys to do stuff with me yesterday (I asked yesterday, but not necessarily FOR yesterday), and they all turned me down, some excuses better than others. So, the obvious question of the day is... Do I offend? More questions follow: Do I smell? Am I a jerk? Am I just not cute enough? Am I too weird? Too sarcastic? Too whatever it is they don't want? Not enough of whatever they want? I don't understand it, me. I try so hard. See Shawn--I do make an effort, so the fact that I spend my Friday nights watching About A Boy for the Nth time is NOT for lack of trying... so hard. Sick sick sick sick sick. I ran into kind of an old flame yesterday. What a pansy, I HAD to ask for his number in order for him to get mine. And he was one of the perpetrators. Such perfect glasses though... *dang.* And he gave me a hug... I think the last time I got a hug was at least two weeks ago when I gave Josh (another culprit) the best card of all time ever. Blech. Argh. I fear I'm becoming a needy person. "So shrug off minor incidents and make us both feel proud--I just wish I could be there to see you through."
Posted by Toots at 3:50 PM 1 comments
Labels: Lost in Kariland
Love Actually is All Around
So, I watched a certain movie with a certain someone yesterday. Words cannot describe how deep and profound my love is for movies. I watched a total of four movies yesterday. I forgot, as well, how much I could get done while watching a movie. I got a lot done yesterday. Some things I had been putting off until forever because of total apathy. But the moment I stuck a movie in, I went into crazy get-things-done-now-overdrive. I made little hand-outs for those whom Alecia and I visit teach with our phone numbers (AND THEY WERE MAGNETS! COME ON!), I made a new freakishly cute cover for my R.S. Secretary binder (with brown in it), I cleaned my room, did my laundry, even cleaned up my mess from making the handouts and binder, made notes for US History, did the dishes, got things ready for the R.S. outing that night, and even emptied the trash in the bathroom. I got loads done! And most of these things you'd have to drag me kicking and screaming to do! What movies did I watch you ask? Well - Legally Blonde (one of my must-haves if I were stuck on a deserted island forever), Sense and Sensibility, Love Actually (I died in that movie. Ask Janay, she'll tell you), and then... Breaking Away, one of my all-time favorite movies. Just having it on served as a comfort. I got more done with those movies on than if I hadn't of had them on--for evidence of this just look at every other day I've spent at home. I even ate a decent lunch. At the outing, I realized just how awesome and darling the Relief Society President is, and how much work goes into these callings. None of the girls were home that we tried to visit, so we made little handouts instead. DANG. Talk about magnifying your calling! She's amazing, and makes me feel so good about myself by laughing at my jokes and talking about how cute I am. *blush* It didn't help though that as we visited (or tried to) girls, we ran into a guy who COMPLETELY ignored me and talked to Bonnie for about five minutes. He made absolutely no effort to introduce himself to me or acknowledge my existence. He just did to Bonnie and asked for her name as well. *cough* Now I fully realized at the time that I looked like crap--it had rained, and my hair had gotten wet and had since dried naturally, and my makeup had all melted off but COME ON!!! A little consideration here! COME ON! Anyway, with a couple of hiccups in regards to fraternizing with the enemy, but not within enemy territory--thank goodness--I did great yesterday with my cunning plan to make-Kari-happier. Yay. I was a lot happier yesterday than I had been for quite awhile. *pause* I'd like to thank Scratch Subtle for her contributions, and my Mommy and Daddy for sending me a ridiculously cute package (more on that later!), and for chocolate. Shout out.
Posted by Toots at 10:39 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Sabbatical

I love Badly Drawn Boy. I feel sometimes it most accurately expresses the way I feel. Towards EVERYTHING. It's all-encompassing. That is the beauty of it. Anyway, I'm trying a new experiment this week, in an effort to be more happy, because I honestly haven't been lately. Baby steps. Some things that have been put into effect have helped. Doing the little things help a lot. But I'm not all the way there. I've talked a bit about it with Scratch Subtle, because she's insane. Incidentally, she's more aware of the full extent of said plan. Maybe later I'll go more into depth concerning the contents of my cunning make-Kari-more-happy plan, but for now, all I can say is: the truth is never flattery, you fine foxy lady!
~Toots
Posted by Toots at 10:29 AM 1 comments
Monday, October 16, 2006
Time after Time
Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.~Benjamin FranklinWouldn't it be nice if it were ethical to cheat?~Rachel (keep an eye on this one)Gee, I'm really sorry your mom blew up, Ricky.~Better Off Dead
Posted by Toots at 12:38 PM 0 comments
Friday, October 13, 2006
I am going to punch a HOLE into your FACE
Anyone familiar with Scratchsubtle's blogspot will be very aware of the stupidity of yours truly. Well, today, at the urgings of my aforementioned friend, I will now provide convincing evidence as to how I am also an ungrateful, spoiled jerk. An idea, I'm sure, many have suspected to be true for years. Exhibit A: A couple of Halloweens ago, while I was a sophomore in college (incidentally, I still am, due to a mission for the LDS church that set me educationally two years behind. The sacrifices one makes, eh!) I got a package in the mail from my mom. At the time, I was living off campus, barely scraping by. I was hungry. Constantly. Consistently. On average. Typically. Usually. And poor, very poor. And due to the brilliant "it builds character" opinion of my folks, I was supporting myself. Completely. So, when I received the package, I was a bit disappointed to find a horrifyingly cute Halloween card, coupled with a darling Halloween-themed bracelet, with alternating pumpkin and ghost charms on it. With the $7 price tag still attached to it (as in the bracelet cost seven dollars, not the price tag). I called up my mom, and then proceeded to RIP HER HEART OUT, because all I could think about were all the wonderful foodstuffs I could buy with that seven dollars, and how I was so hungry and so poor and how CLUELESS she was for buying me a STUPID bracelet that I wouldn't wear anyway, coupled with the two or three dollars she probably spent on the card and the postage. Triumphant, I finished the conversation, and hung up. The instant that phone hit the carriage, I felt like CRAAAAAP. The worst of the worst. And the feeling just continued for hours and then days. About two or three days later, I finally buckled and called her back and profusely apologized. I really had hurt her feelings, and the acknowledgement of this just made me feel worse. Good thing I'm such a freaking jerk sometimes. Anyway, the charm bracelet is currently in my jewelry box, and even now, three years later, I still feel AWFUL whenever I see it.And yes, I do make it a point to sport those alternating pumpkins and ghosts every Halloween.
Posted by Toots at 9:40 AM 2 comments
Labels: Halloween