Spiritual Sunday - time to step up my game

I may have mentioned before about the cool experience I have of working with the Young Women in my ward (church congregation).  The organization consists of young women between the ages of 12 - 18.  I work specifically with the 14 and 15 year olds, but based on the numbers in our ward, oftentimes we combine with the older girls.  It's been one of my all time favorite callings (job/responsibility) and I absolutely love it.

I have heard a few minor mentions of a change in the teaching curriculum that was being put in place starting 2013, but today I got the full scoop.

Can I just say - WOW.

We had a quick training session today.  I was a little late (chatty cathy) so I missed the first few minutes but I've been studying the material that they handed out.  I am beyond excited about the change!

In the past we were given lesson manuals and a lesson schedule.  Everyone followed the same lesson plan and taught the same lessons.  Of course across the world, each teacher would have their own style, and emphasis on what was taught, but it was all basically the same lesson.

No more.  

Instead, we are directed, instructed and trusted to teach more "in the Savior's way".   We are going to be given a Unit with some outlines that go along with it.  From there, we as teachers, are to prayerfully prepare discussion and gospel learning environments based on the needs of the individual youth in our care.

That makes so much sense to me!  Jesus didn't carry around a lesson manual.  He walked amongst the people, knew who they were, counseled them, served them, asked thought provoking questions and taught principles based on the gathering at the time.  He didn't get to a spot along the seashore or atop a mountain and say, "Wait a second....we aren't gonna discuss the Holy Ghost right now, because my manual says we need to talk about the Temple".  Nope.  He didn't teach that way.  And now, in my church, neither am I.  Not that we necessarily did that, but you get the point right?

I've been in the YW program as a leader for several years and so have used the same 4 manuals several times.  It's gotten to the point where I could flip it open, read through the lesson and then be "ready".  I could look at it, remember the upteen other times I had taught it, and then just go on.  Of course, each time would be different in some way but I wasn't putting the same amount of effort that I did when I was teaching Gospel Doctrine and felt more pressure.

No more.

I gotta step up my game, and I couldn't be more excited and ready for it!  

It's interesting that when my church announced the lowering the age for serving missions for our youth, I immediately thought "something big is coming".  Before a young man or woman serves a mission they attend the Temple and receive their own endowment.  There is immense power within that endowment.  It was brought to my attention, "think of all the more young people what are now armed with the power of the endowment going out into the world".  I have been stuck on that thought for quite some time and again the nagging feeling of "something big is coming".

Today's instruction of the new teaching guidelines for our youth, I immediately recognized it as part of the "something big".  And as a leader and teacher associated with this, it is a humbling and inspiring blessing.

Step up my game.  I've been good at getting involved in my girl's lives.  I text them all randomly, seek them out when I can and try to spend time with them outside of Sunday's and our weekday activities.  I have the "loving them" part down.  That comes easy to me.  Now, the teaching of the doctrine.  No more skimming the lesson on Saturday night.  No more Sunday morning, grab a few items to add to it and head out the door.  I find teaching easy so leading a discussion doesn't seem daunting.  The biggest thing I have to do?

Make my self better.  Creating a lesson or gospel discussion based on the needs of the particular girls in the classroom will only come by the Spirit.  It will only come after prayer, study, more prayer and a lot of listening to the Spirit for direction.  That doesn't just come to someone.  It takes work, effort and worthiness.

I gotta step up my game.  Clearly, the Lord has big plans for our youth.  I think we've all known that all along, but this is clear proof to me.  He needs them converted to the gospel and He needs them converted now.  They weren't saved for the last days because they were the weakest, He saved them for the last because they are the fighters.  They are the ones with the strength, testimonies and valiancy to withstand the battles of today.  They are "old souls" that need to be reminded of the truths they knew before they were born and then the self confidence and strength to be leaders of those truths.  This new teaching curriculum screams "raising the bar".

I gotta keep up.  Now is not the time to allow for any slacking on my part.  If I am blessed enough to be able to work with the youth, then I need to prove my worthiness for that privilege.  If I am trusted to be an example and a leader for these incredible young people, than I cannot be found lacking.  

Does that mean I have to employ serious and drastic changes to my lifestyle?  Of course not, I'm not a complete heathen.  Instead it means a little more time spent on things of greater value.  Time for more spiritual reflection and study. Time for more prayer on behalf of my girls.  I feel a great responsibility on my shoulders.  And it may seem odd to some, but I like it.  I love a challenge.  I love change.  I love any opportunity to better myself as a human being and particular as a daughter of God.

Stepping up my game kids! Wish me luck, and even better, feel free to come play with me.

Bingo! How to keep yourself entertained among the silliness of it all on Sunday

First  - I did not create this Bingo card.  I heard about it this morning at breakfast, my bestie sent it to me, and I am thus sharing with you.  'Cause I care.

Second - I already know how I feel about the sensitive subject that has cropped up in my church.  You can click here for a link to the story, but really it's a non-issue.   I am not interested in debating or discussing it - thus comments are going to be turned off.  If someone reading has questions that are honest and sincere, you know how to get at me.

Third - if you find yourself offended.  You chose to be.  Quit taking yourself so serious.  I posted this in the spirit of tongue-in-cheek fun.  I mean c'mon, if you can't laugh at shit, what do you have left in life huh?

Print and share...... might want to heads up your ward family members so that everyone can be prepared with their own playing markers.  I suggest skittles.

xoxox
skirt wearing on Snday mCat

mCat's Annual Family Christmas Card - 2012 edition

Since I have begun to get everyone else's cutsie Christmas cards in the mail, I figured it was time for the annual Christmas card and yearly round up - mCat style.

Remember last year when this went out?  Well, the beauty is, I can make a quick update to it, and resuse the same card!  Genius, I KNOW!

So, I now present the special 2012 edition of mCat's Family Christmas Card

(notice our clothes aren't as see through this year.....improvement in the modesty department.  Splenda has lost a little more hair and m has grown some)

And no Christmas card is complete without a wrap up of the going's on of the family right?

So....... 2012 started off fairly quiet.  

mCat joined a pacing group and in addition to several races including 3 marathons and numerous half's, was able to meet some cool people while pacing and racing.

Splenda Daddy kept bringing home the bacon while m hung out at the running store. Although, as of late, he has CERTAINLY earned the esteemed title of SUGAR Daddy.  (Dude seriously is the bomb dot com!)

Splenda and mCat went on their first cruise ever in February and just returned from the Virgin Islands.  Traveling suits them well and they should begin planning more jaunts.

Corb and Kar doing well in SoCal.  Karalee graduated school with her certificate in medical coding and is busy being a fantastic mom and wife.

Corb gathered several leadership billets and medals while continuing work in the armory at Camp Pendleton.   In addition, he was promoted to Corporal (congrats boy).  Hoping this continues and he doesn't get orders to transfer anywhere else.  Keep ya'll's fingers crossed 'cause you just never know with the Marine's.

Chloee started kindergarten and based on her first report card that came yesterday, she is a STELLAR student!  Lost both bottom baby teeth, a top one and a second top one is on.the.edge.

Loving life, gathering all kinds of friends and toys and flourishing in every way possible!

Their family was able to come home this summer and be sealed as a family in the Salt Lake Temple.  One of the best days of our family's life!  We are grateful for and would like to bear our testimony of skype, flexible work schedules for Splenda and sky miles.  So excited when next year we will be able to say they could be coming home the NEXT year.

Luke moved to a new apartment in Provo and has a cousin as a roommate.  Still attending UVU (finals this week) and dating.  Wouldn't mind if this kid had a wedding on the agenda for 2013, but also completely secure in his choices.  He's good people that kid! Love when he comes home on the weekends.

Tuffy and 'Tana enjoyed their first year of marriage and apartment living.  Now, while interest rates are low, they are kickin it here saving up a down payment and hope to be in a home in the next couple of months.  Fun to have them just downstairs, although I am sure they are anxious to get back out. *sigh*  Tuffy has been a fantastic diet coke pimp and Montana is my best Survivor watching friend!

Jordan's weight has stayed steady.  I think she's comfortable in her chubbiness and accepts her body as it is.  (good for her!)

Jack is no longer crazy, but just funny as hell and with Jace here, he's always happy, happy, happy!  That dog is one bundle of personality.

Jace is over his puppy growing pains and has settled into the pack quite nicely.   He seems to love being here.

 All three of them enjoy being together and are the best cuddlers ever.

So that's it.  There were some big events over the course of the year, and I suppose you could look at my blog history if you wanted to read more about them.  Races, travels, sickness, sealings, life........

Looking back at the year myself, there is much to be grateful for.  Many blessings.  Many experiences that may have been hard at the time, but in hindsight prove to be just minor blips in the grand radar scheme of things.  

Blessings indeed.

So what's on the agenda for 2013?

I don't know.......but I guarantee we won't be bored!

Merry Christmas!!

xoxox

mCat

*PS - as always, if you are interested in the amazing artwork exhibited above for your fridge to display with all the others you get in the mail, just click your print button and make sure there is paper loaded.

**PSS - The offer stands as well if you would like me to do YOUR family Christmas card.  Fee is nominal and there is a 10 stick figure limit.

St Thomas Day 8 Going home and all the things I learned

Hate leaving.  Okay, I shouldn't say hate, but maybe the better word would be sad.....

Our last sunrise........

Top things I learned about St Thomas and vacationing here (with some random photos thrown in):

* The local islanders that have been born and raised here don't really care about you or how you are     treated.  Their lives don't revolve around tourism, so the tourists are really kind of a bother.  Don't take it personal.

* The mainlanders that have come here to work are SUPER friendly and nice.  Their cost of living is outrageous, but they stay because they LOVE the island.

* One should address a native with a "Good Morning, Good Afternoon or Good Night" depending on the appropriate time of day.  You will get more friendliness from them.

* The town shuts down at 5pm at night.

* The town is dead on Sunday's.

* Best to check when all the cruise ships come in and then plan to stay away from town.  The population can triple in size on those days.

* Stick to a reputable cab company

K9 Joe taking us back to the airport

* Prepare to pay out the ying yang for every.single.thing.

* Don't rent a car.

* Don't try to walk far on the roads.  You are literally taking your life in your own hands.

* It's crazy expensive to live here so if you decide to relocate, be prepared to drain all your savings.

* It doesn't have to be so expensive, they just need better leadership to make some smarter decisions.  Sad really.

Last shot in the castle

* The Caribbean sea is the warmest, cleanest, clearest and did I mention warmest? of them all.

* It's difficult to find sea shells.

* Bartenders that relocated from the mainland don't seem to be very happy deep down inside.

* You can buy rum and cigarettes for 10 bucks and a box of cereal for 9.

* Drinking is the way of life.  Period.

* Ordering virgin drinks does not cost less.

* Roosters crow all.night.long.

Meet Matthew

* There are billions of cats on the other side of the island.

* The beaches are beautiful with white sand that is a texture close to flour

* The water is warm, especially on the Caribbean side.

* Dramamine is a girls best friend.

The cemetery's are above ground.  I would have loved to wander and look at the names.  There ia a TON of history on the islands

* Salt/Sea water is not good for your hair.

* Sunscreen and two hours laying out can cure any blues one may feel.

* There is a difference in pina colada's.  Some places are better than others.

* The cherries are the same.  Good.

* There is something to be said for just sitting quietly and listening to the waves crash.  They crash very softly in the bay's and it's more than a little calming.

* A tan line makes me happy.  In ways that most people can't understand nor can I explain.

* I love humidity.  My hair does not.

**** You know you are with good friends, when things aren't an effort.  Chatting comes easy, silence is comfortable, and laughing is sincere and natural.

****** It's never too early to begin planning one's next vacation or plotting how one can get their entire family in a tropical setting.

Trying not to cry on the plane ride home.

Seriously one of the best vacations we've ever had.  HUGE thank you and much gratitude to our friends Mr and Mrs Erickson for inviting us along.  We made some great memories that Splenda Daddy and I will cherish for the rest of our lives.  We could totally do this kind of thing again.  Let's get planning!

St Thomas Day 7 - Magen's Bay and the Last Supper

What a perfect Friday. The perfect kind of day to end the week with.  Nothing but sheer relaxation.

At 9:30, a taxi driver picked us up from the hotel and drove us to Magan's Bay.  Another beach on a different part of the island.  We got there, got some chairs set up, found a spot with shade and a little sun for me and plopped ourselves down.

The rest of the day was spent watching Pelican's divebomb in the water, fishing jumping out the water, sunning, playing in the sand, wading in the water and in general doing absolutely nothing but decompressing.
Our day in pictures:

(hard to see, but that ripple out there is masses of fish jumping in and out of the water)

At 3:30, we met back up with our taxi driver who was named K9 John.  He is well known all over the island.  Former cop, and big wig in law enforcement.  Very cool man!

Part of the tour package is a stop at Udderly Delight.  They specialize in making "adult" milkshakes.  But you could order these virgin as well

Back at the hotel we cleaned up, rested a bit and then made our way to the fancy restaurant on the property for our last big meal here.

I had this amazing peppercorn crusted filet

Splenda some amazingly spiced chicken

And we shared Asparagus with Hollandaise sauce

Too soon, we were done and saying goodbye to the last cruise ship as it left the harbor.  A sign that all good vacations must come to an end :(

There isn't one thing I would change about our week here.  It was perfectly balanced.  We love the friends we were with.  The scenery was spectacular.  The weather - amazing.

The only thing I think I could add would be for all my kids and Chloee to be here to enjoy it with us!

St Thomas Day 6 - An eternity of memories

Trying very hard to articulate the words to adequately describe our day.  Holy Smokes!  I don't think I'm gonna be able to do it justice but at least I'll get something down for journaling sake.

Sunday, when the tour guides were all pitching their tours, Ana caught our attention with the chartered yacht and small group of people.  The all day excursion included snorkeling, fishing and sunset viewing.  All food, drink and transportation.  It seemed pricey at the time, but in hindsight - adding it all up, we got way more for our money!

At 9:00am, Scott from the company picked us up, stopped at the other BlueBeard's hotel to fetch another couple so we had a total of 6 people.  We got to the harbor and met the crew.
Wolfgang was our captain.  Ana (his wife) was the chef.  Julia and Katie were water/boat/drinks/food  whatever helpers.

breakfast - pastries, fruit, champagne (juice for us)

We launched and slowly went out to Buck Island.  The story behind Buck Island is that when the traders gathered slaves, they would leave all the young men out on the island with no food or water for several weeks.  The ones that survived were then taken to the main island to be slaves.  The ones who died were left just as they were.  How horrible!  The bay on the one side of the island was referred to as Turtle Cove and I'm telling you - it.was.cool!

We got out the snorkel equipment and launched.  I actually touched and petted a sea turtle!  I swam towards him and as I approached, I noticed he was eating a jellyfish.  I slowly moved closer and reached out my hand.  Actually touching him was AMAZING!!!  Another one played a little game of peek a boo looking me straight in the eyes and we bobbed our heads up and down in the water.  I seriously was in heaven!  I snorkeled around a little bit seeing another ray, some cool fish and of course more turtles.  I think they are my favorite sea animal now!

After an hour or so of snorkeling, Wolfie took us around to the other side of Buck Island where there was a shipwreck and more snorkeling.  I was cold and I was told there was a barracuda and a Moray eel so I skipped the water this time and instead sunned myself on the upper deck of the yacht.  It is so stunningly beautiful!

Mr and Mrs Erickson snorkeled for quite a while checking out the shipwreck and both were able to see the Barracuda.  Adam and Tib did some diving/jumping off the boat and of course there was more food.

There was another boat doing a snuba tour.  Combination of snorkel/scuba but these suckers paid $170 bucks for 20 minutes.  They looked funny

Tib is allergic to shellfish and I can't stand cheese so sweet Ana totally made our own separate dishes accommodating our special needs.  LOVE HER!

After lunch, we made our way over to Little St James Island.
We did some trolling for fish on the way over and while our boys didn't catch anything, the Texas woman we were with had caught something earlier

Little St James is a private island owned by Jeffrey Epstein.  He is a very rich man who was indicted for sex with underage girls, spending time in the big house.  The locals call the island, Pedophile Island.  The owner never spends any time there but maintains it for tax purposes.  He has staff that live on St Thomas that come over each day, work on the island and the home and grounds and then leave again each night.  One in particular, his only job is to move a plastic cow.  His contract doesn't say how far or where he has to move it, but it has to be moved every single day.  So he comes, moves the damn thing a couple of feet and is done.  Earns 80,000 a year for it.  We also passed a gazebo with a 200 inch TV screen that plays movies constantly even though there is no one there to watch it.  The palm trees he shipped in were 6500 a piece!  The one little island is the most striking example of waste that I have ever seen.  The man is completely wealthy and utterly stupid!

We pulled in the bay and again donned the snorkel gear.  This was mostly reef so we saw a lot of different coral and reef life.  I was having trouble with my mask seal so I gave it up and swam back to the boat.

The memory I will cherish the most is the next hour or so as Splenda Daddy and I sat on the back of the boat, dangling our feet in the water and watching the sunset.  Absolutely the coolest thing ever.  Some small talk, some hand holding, some light splashing of the water with our toes and nothing to disrupt us.  Island on both sides, nothing but ocean and sunset ahead.  It is now seared in my memory forever.

Of course once the Erickson's got back on the boat and dried off, dinner was served.  Seriously, they had given us so much food and drink that it was hard to even fathom eating more, but Ana had gone to all the work, so we felt obligated and beyond that, it was just damn good food!

We stayed in the cove until the sun had set just chatting and I was playing around with the captain's duties.

So funny story.  The 6 of us were on the upper deck while the crew was below cleaning up dinner and whatever.  I decided to pose at the captains chair like I was driving the boat.

I handled the steering wheel and then someone suggested I pose on the throttels.  So I jump back up there and I didn't want to move them, just set my hands on top so it looked like I was doing something.
Well, the whole trip, I had not paid attention and noticed that he actually started the engines down below.  The minute I put my hands on the throttels, they moved ever so slightly at the exact same time as he fired up the engines!  I THOUGHT I HAD DONE SOMETHING WRONG!!  Panic set in.  Like serious panic.  Like I expected him to come flying up and yell at me for breaking some sort of maritime rule and putting us all in danger.  I was desperately trying to get behind Splenda and then run my way back to the upper deck and pretend that someone else had done it.  I was totally and completely prepared to throw Splenda Daddy under the bus for this smart aleck move.  I couldn't figure out why everyone was laughing so hard and then it was all explained to me.  I didn't do anything at all, but it was incredible timing!  I can't even tell you the last time I think we all laughed that hard.  Best comic relief of the night!

We finally turned back and headed for the harbor and boat dock.

Got a last shot of the crew, gave hugs and promised to write a nice review for Trip Advisory.  And truly, I will do it in all honesty.

Ana, Julia, Wolfgang, and Katie

This excursion was the best money we ever spent.  After calculating all snorkeling we did, the food and drink, the three different coves and areas we saw, the fishing on the boat and the sunset dinner - we MORE than got what we paid for.  If you go to St Thomas and you do nothing else, THIS excursion is the must do.  Absolute must do.

We were stuffed from the food, tired from the water play and hit the bed early.  As I laid drifting off to sleep, I was thankful for what a wonderful day.  10 hours on a charted yacht with only 6 people and 4 staff members.  Not a raucous booze cruise, just enjoying the beauty of the island and it's ocean bays.  Good food, good people and the sunset with my love.  Just doesn't get much better than this.