The Long Commute

As I sit here writing this my shoes are drip-drying on the vent and my damp socks are keeping my feet cold under my desk.  My commute to work did not go as planned.  Last night, +Aaron told me he couldn't carpool today.  I decided today would be the day I would try using Frontrunner to get to work.  It was storming in Salt Lake anyway, so that would keep me off the roads.  After swimming this morning, I asked Aaron to just drop me off at Trax in Murray since I wasn't ready to brave the morning crowd on Frontrunner.  I figured the one attempt in the afternoon would be enough.

We traveled on some slick roads and slowed down a couple of times, but the trip to Murray was pretty uneventful.  Once he dropped me off, I had to work my way through the slush that was created from a major bus depot and lots of passengers.  I missed the train by 20 seconds.  I figured it wasn't a big deal since another one would be along shortly.  My thoughts deceived me as I was there waiting for 25 minutes.  The train finally arrived, but we were told it could only go to 2100 South and we would have to get off the train to take a shuttle to 1300 South due to an accident.  Since the train was late, it was extremely overcrowded.  I was standing in the stairwell, right by the sign that said, “No Standing on the Stairs.”  They then announced that we would have some stops as each train that got to 21^st South had to come back down the track as there was no way to go.

I looked at the news on KSL.com to see that a person had been hit by the train.  I felt bad for my frustrations and hoped he was OK.  We made a couple of stops and then I thought we were approaching 21^st South.  Well, the approach resulted in 3 stops in the middle of nowhere as the other trains switched tracks.  A moment of claustrophobia set in as I looked inside the train car to see every spot filled with people from the seats to the ceiling.  I looked outside and saw old warehouses lining the tracks.  I knew the train could not get through and there was really no place to go.  I quickly relaxed and decided to just be patient.  Despite the pedestrian’s tragedy, my predicament was kind of funny.

We eventually arrived at 21^st South, and found that several trains had arrived before us.  There were crowds of people.  I texted my boss and explained my situation.  He wished me luck and said he’d see me at noon.  My guess is there were over 500 people standing there.  We could see the accident and all the fire trucks and medical personnel.  The man was stuck under the train.  We watched as they were finally able to pull him out.  Last I heard he’s still breathing, but in critical condition.  He slipped in the snow and ice and yelled for help, but was too late.

We stood there waiting for the promised shuttles.  And we waited and waited.  There was a lady in a wheelchair who had positioned herself for the wheelchair ramp on the bus anticipating it’s arrival.  As more trains arrived delivering more people, she started yelling at everyone to get out of the driveway as the bus can’t get through.  She zoomed around in her chair ordering everyone to get out of the way.  She was kind of annoying about it.  Then, this 25 year old woman yells to her, “Lady, shut up, leave everyone alone.  There is no bus.  We’ve been waiting for 45 minutes and there is no bus coming.”  I had to laugh.  I agreed completely, no bus coming, but it’s humorous to watch people in situations like that.  After another 20 minutes we were told 4 busses were coming in 4 minutes.  Once they arrived the madness began with people shoving and running over snow banks to get to the other part of the parking lot where the buses opted to stop.  It was a stampede.  I decided to hold back and wait for another option. 

No sooner had the busses been filled to capacity and beyond, then the fire trucks pulled out and the train involved in the accident was on its way.  They then kicked everyone off the shuttle buses and we all ran towards the platform being careful not to nudge anyone onto the tracks.  As the first train arrived it was beyond crowded, but people wedged themselves onto it.  The same with train number 2.  I saw an empty train heading south and decided to try my luck with going backwards to get on a different train.  I don’t know if it was the best choice, but eventually I was headed north again on a crowded train.

We arrived downtown and found that the streets had not been plowed, so I enjoyed trudging across South Temple with the same nasty brown slush.  Once I got to my office I realized how cold me feet were, so my shoes came off.  I’m grateful that it wasn't too cold out otherwise and hoping that the ride home will be better.  At the same time I realize why I prefer driving, and I thought it was just for the conversation with my carpool buddy.

Room With a View

I love change.  At the same time there are many things in my life that I want to hold on forever and never let change.  Those are mostly people, both family and friends that I want to continue to have a great time with.  The changes I'm talking about are changes in what I do everyday.  I love when Rheanna or I get new callings.  I love the new school year, but also love summer vacation.  I've worked for the Church for 3 years and have done pretty much the same thing the whole time.  Starting this month I'm being given some completely new assignments.  I don't want to bore you with the details, but I'm pretty excited.

Ok, I'll share a little bit about what I'll now be doing.  I will be a Policy Mediator.  Basically, I'm looking for people that are abusing the system, disregarding policy and others that just need to be educated.  My focus will be concerning Holocaust victims and famous people.  Which means I have to fill my head with celebrity gossip, at least those that are dying.  It really will be a good change of pace for me.

The other change that came with this is that they had me move cubicles.  I used to stare at the other wing of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building with a slight glimpse of the Church Office Building.  I now sit on the west side and have a perfect view of the Salt Lake Temple.  Seriously breathtaking whenever I look at it.  The view alone lifts me up each day and reminds me of who I am and what I need to be doing each day.

Phishing Test Failure

I get to work this morning and check my email.  Mixed in with all my work email is one from accounts@newegg.com.  I haven't ordered anything from newegg in a very long time and certainly did not use my work email to do it.  My thought was maybe it was a mistake, but if I'm the winner, I'll take it.  As soon as I click on the link I get a notification from the Church's ICS Department saying this was a training test and I failed and clicked on the link.  At least it was just a test and no one phished real data from me.  This taught me two things.  1) It's easy to fall prey to phishers.  2) The Church is extremely clever.  Add a third in there - I'm gullible :)

In Search of Sleep

This week has gone by so fast. Sure it's been as busy as any other, but I think it's all from sleep deprivation. Sunday night we went to the Conference Center for the First Presidency Christmas Devotional. We got back at a decent time, but I still had to recover from a long day before I could go to bed. Monday night was the roughest night I remember. I could not sleep for the life of me. I remember seeing the clock at 2:30 in the morning and I had not been to sleep. Add to that a text from a friend that he was taking his son to the hospital at 11 pm. I seriously hope I don't have another stressful night like that.


Moving on to Tuesday. Newspaper day. Normally there is only one insert to stuff, but this week we had 2. Rheanna was gone for the evening so I worked on papers until midnight, only to get up at 4:15 for the gym.

Wednesday was almost a repeat, but Rheanna was there to help with the papers. I crashed at 11, excited that my sleep time had increased to 5 hours.

Last night was stake meetings. By the time I got in bed it was 11:30. This morning I couldn't even finish my thoughts. My brain would stop working mid-conversation. I'm hoping for a restful weekend. In the last 5 nights I should have had 40 hours of sleep, I'm guessing I got about 22. Again, not sure how the week flew by when I was awake an extra 18 hours. I don't want to overachieve, so my goal for next week is to get at least 6 hours a night. Wish me luck!

The Boys are Back

I've ended the debate on the gym.  +Aaron Ball and I both joined the Legacy Center in Lehi.  Today was our first day.  We swam and it felt great for the first couple of laps.  Then nausea set in and I realized I'm am so far from being in shape.  Daily exercise should help me overcome that.  At least that's the goal, right?

I can't believe it's been 3 1/2 years since we carpooled and did the gym together.  I've really missed it.  It is great to have a friend that inspires me to try harder in all aspects of my life.  I hope I can return the favor.

Tomorrow my goal is to go with more than 4 hours of sleep, something tells me that will help my endurance too :)

Time to Get Motivated

You’d think the long Thanksgiving weekend would have been adequate, but I’m so ready for a vacation. Not in the mood to spend any money, but would love some time to just relax and have fun. I think overall, I’m just feeling lazy.

 I’ve made little attempts over the years to get back into working out. I need to lose some weight, lower my cholesterol and just feel better overall. I just can’t seem to keep up with the motivation. It’s either too cold, too early or some other excuse. The only time I had a consistent workout was when I was carpooling and we’d go on the way to work each day. I’ve recently started carpooling again, so the possibility is there. Can’t decide if I should pursue that or attempt doing my own thing again.

 If I could figure out a way to work out while sitting in the clerk’s office while the stake president meets with people, I’d be all set :)

Refocus

Believe it or not, you are actually seeing a post on my blog. I recently broke down and got an iPhone (one of the greatest inventions ever). In order to justify the purchase I try to find new ways to use it each day to make my time more productive, better organize my life, and communicate more frequently with more people. My life got so hectic over the past couple of years with a longer commute, part time jobs, etc. My goal is to now use my blogger app and actually begin my "journal" again.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I have much to be thankful for. First off I am so thankful for my fabulous wife. She helps me everyday to be a better person. She makes my life so enjoyable. She is raising terrific kids that I am also extremely thankful for. I have been blessed with the best friends I could possibly wish for. So many to turn to whenever I have a need and one that I can even bug constantly and he still puts up with me. I'm thankful for my extended family that puts up with my long conversations. I'm thankful that our family is all healthy. Thankful for an inviting home, my job, transportation and all the stuff we use each day.

I also want to thank my Savior for all that He has blessed me with. I continue to marvel at the strength He continues to give me. There really is no trial too small for Him to care about. People often tell me I'm too optimistic, but I have found that my moments of despair and doubt are quickly diminished by His constant comfort.

Not sure I have any followers anymore after my complete absence from the blogging world, but if someone is reading this, I hope you have a truly Happy Thanksgiving.

Sometimes The Money Just Isn't Worth It!

This past weekend I reached my limit.  I was trying to hold down a full-time job, deliver pizza, be a mystery shopper and deliver papers.  After just one week of the paper route I had to throw in the towel, it was killing me.  I had a couple of nights that I only got 3 hours of sleep.  I decided I would give my 30 day notice and quit my route.  After talking to lots of people on Sunday I decided that I would just quit immediately.  The contract said I had to give 30 days notice or pay a fee.  I realized that paying a fee was still fulfilling the contract so I went with that and enjoyed sleeping in Monday morning.  I love learning when my stupid decisions are behind me.

I will say that I have a whole new respect for those willing to deliver papers with the changes that have taken place.  I have delivered papers for 8 years of my life, but it’s always been a simple walking route or an occasional motor route.  This time it was pure insanity.  I had to be up at 1:30 am.  I then had to fold all of the papers and put each flyer and set of coupon in them.  Don’t they have machines that can do this?  They used to.  I then had to bag each paper according to its type.  I delivered the Daily Herald, Salt Lake Tribune, Deseret News, USA Today, Wall Street Journal and the El Observador.  It was insane to do all those papers at once.  On Sunday mornings, some people would get 5 copies of the Daily Herald, 2 Deseret News and 1 Tribune.  Talk about a nightmare to keep straight.  Seriously, I have no desire to have a paper delivered again.  I would rather go to the store and buy it than have some poor soul bring it to me that is probably making far less than minimum wage after their gas expense.  If you do get the paper, please give a generous tip from time to time.

After delivering pizza for the last couple of months I’ve learned a lot about tipping.  Sometimes I’ll deliver one and get absolutely nothing.  Other times I’ll get one that is extremely generous.  I would say my average is around $4.  The other night we were eating at a restaurant for a mystery shop and I decided we should be generous in our tip.  The 15-20% is kind of expected, but when you go beyond that, you really make someone’s day.  It’s amazing how it feels to give good tips.  I look back on my life and think about all of the times that I should have given more to the valet, the bellhop, the waiter, the barber, the delivery man, etc.  Giving is wonderful.  I speak from experience in saying that when you just add $1 or $2 to your tip it makes all the difference to the service provider. 

I've had a Total Money Makeover!

I know Rheanna has posted some about our Total Money Makeover, but I thought I would share my thoughts as well.  Most Americans have heard of Dave Ramsey in some capacity.  I was one of the skeptics that doubted he had any knowledge that I didn’t have.  I’m an accounting major after all, so how could someone tell me how to better manage my money?  I’ve read through his seven baby steps a few times over the years.  They make sense, but I didn’t really understand why they should be a priority.  Doing the baby steps would require discipline and lots of hard work.  I just wasn’t sure I was up for it all.

Well, we borrowed the Total Money Makeover book from the Hackings and I decided to read it.  I read it in a day or two and finally “got it.”  It wasn’t just telling me to get out of debt.  It showed me and motivated me to do it quickly.  Once that is accomplished you can truly “live like no one else.”  I used to think we’d “get there eventually,” but now I don’t think we ever would have.

We have more debt that I care to discuss, but most of it is wrapped up in student loans and in mortgages.  When we set down and added it all up we were sickened.  We have cut back on almost everything and found lots of extra money we were wasting.  Paying too much for cell phone features, trying to keep low deductibles, having full coverage on a car more than 7 years old, and the list went on.  After we trimmed up our waste we found an extra $200.  Yay!  We were so excited, but knew it wouldn’t be enough to truly crush this debt and be done.

After a couple of months of looking for various opportunities I think we are settling in on some great ones.  I’ve been delivering pizza for 2 months.  Next week, I’m going to start a paper route and once I’m comfortable with that will start a second route.  You’re probably thinking I’m insane.  Maybe I am, but Rheanna is on the same page as me, so it works.  Even though I’m gone more, I think we are closer in our marriage than ever before.  We see eye to eye on everything and are able to remind and motivate each other all along the way.  The kids are even involved.  We are teaching them the evils and annoyance of credit cards and student loans.  We have paper chains that represent the debt bondage that we are in.  The kids get to break the links in these chains as we pay debt off and feel closer to real freedom.

We’ve paid off 2 credit cards already!  We have just one more to go and then we’ll tackle the student loan and mortgage.  We will be debt free except for the mortgage by the end of next year.  Then I can slow down my working intensity some as we move on to other baby steps.  The mortgage will be paid off before Hyrum is through high school.  I’m sure that all sounds too good to be true.  It truly is realistic though. 

I have had a real awakening to the fact that I’ve been a lousy steward with the money the Lord has blessed me with.  I’ve been completely converted to what we’ve been taught for years, to just stay out of debt and avoid it like a plague.  Very little of this is math, it’s really all motivation.  I can sacrifice for a year or two and then really find happiness and freedom. 

I want everyone to have the same awakening and breakthrough that we’ve had.  I’m almost as excited about this as I am family history.  If you are debt free you can still learn from these principles and build your own wealth.  If you have any debt (car, house, student loan, credit cards) there really is an end in sight and it doesn’t have to take anywhere near 30 years.  It just takes a husband and wife working together.  I love my wife and all that she does to keep our family strong each day!  I’m so thankful for her support in all of our Dave Ramsey “WEIRDNESS.”

Baby Step 1

$1,000 to start an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is for those unexpected events in life that you can’t plan for: the loss of a job, an unexpected pregnancy, a faulty car transmission, and the list goes on and on. It’s not a matter of if these events will happen; it’s simply a matter of when they will happen. 

Baby Step 2

Pay off all debt using the Debt Snowball

List your debts, excluding the house, in order. The smallest balance should be your number one priority. Don’t worry about interest rates unless two debts have similar payoffs. If that’s the case, then list the higher interest rate debt first.

Baby Step 3

3 to 6 months of expenses in savings

Once you complete the first two baby steps, you will have built serious momentum. But don’t start throwing all your “extra” money into investments quite yet. It’s time to build your full emergency fund.

Baby Step 4

Invest 15% of household income into Roth IRAs and pre-tax retirement

When you reach this step, you’ll have no payments—except the house—and a fully funded emergency fund. Now it’s time to get serious about building wealth.

Baby Step 5

College funding for children

By this point, you should have already started Baby Step 4—investing 15% of your income—before saving for college. Whether you are saving for you or your child to go to college, you need to start now.

Baby Step 6

Pay off home early

Now it’s time to begin chunking all of your extra money toward the mortgage. You are getting closer to realizing the dream of a life with no house payments

Baby Step 7

Build wealth and give!

It’s time to build wealth and give like never before. Leave an inheritance for future generations, and bless others now with your excess. It's really the only way to live!

New Church Website for Volunteers!

“By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.” Alma 37:6

 

Visitors to the Church’s new website, Helping in the Vineyard, are greeted by these wise words from Alma to his son Helaman. And by small and simple things are great things still brought to pass. One of these simple things can be as small as five minutes spent on a website translating, indexing, tagging images and videos, or even editing documents.

 

“If you have only five minutes to serve, there is an opportunity for you do that on the Vineyard,” says Joseph Jatip, community development manager of the Church Human Resources Department. “The Church has a lot of data. There is . . . work that, if done by a traditional workforce, could take up to 30 years to do—maybe even more.”

 

The Church continues to grow at an astounding rate, but the workforce cannot do the same. The widening labor gap created by a rapidly growing membership and a finite earthly organization will be increasingly met by volunteers and Church-Service missionaries. Every member’s help is needed.

 

Building a profile and identifying the skills you have takes only a few minutes, so site users can begin helping to build the kingdom in a matter of minutes. “The goal of the Vineyard is to be another way for people to help the Church and to actually help directly with Church operations,” Brother Jatip said. “They can say, ‘I helped work on that [content] so other members can use it and find it on the Web for talks and lessons.’ ”

 

Members can sign up to participate at vineyard.lds.org, and thousands are doing just that. Membership on the site is growing fast, doubling from 2,000 to 4,200 in less than two months. So take a couple of minutes right now to share your time and talents with the Lord. There’s no better way to spend free time than to consecrate it Helping in the Vineyard.

A Celebration of Family History

The last week in April, I had the privilege of attending the National Genealogical Society's Conference which was held in Salt Lake.  FamilySearch was one of the main sponsors of the event.  This first video is a tour of the Granite Mountain Records Vault.  It's pretty cool.  This was shown at the opening of the conference to about 3000 people.



On Thursday night of that week, we had the great opportunity to attend the concert with the Tabernacle Choir, President Eyring and David McCullough.  It was fantastic.  There were about 15,000 people in attendance with over 1/3 not members of the Church.  They have recently released the videos of that night.  We saw each video and then saw the choir sing live to go along with it.  They were very powerful.  In these clips, the choir is included with it. The entire night will be available for purchase some time soon.  My favorites are Clan McCloud and Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory.  Enjoy!

Are You Kidding?

We've lived in Eagle Mountain for almost 6 years. During that time there has been lots of growth in EM and Saratoga Springs. We've seen lots of houses built in both cities and lots of new stores and restaurants in SS. Along with that we've even been blessed with several new schools. Recently we've had some great additions with new roads. The widening of Redwood was one of the best things to come our way. Yesterday, they opened the new Pioneer Crossing. It is a terrific road. They originally said that the speed limit would be 40, but now that it's open it's 45. Of course, everyone goes 55 or 50. This really will change our lives. I might actually shop in AF again instead of Riverton. I hate Lehi Main St, so I avoid going that way at all costs.

After our perfect drive on Pioneer Crossing, we took SR-73 home. The 2 ½ miles from Walmart to Eagle Mountain has always been 65 mph. They have now dropped it to only 55. Really? How annoying. I'm sure it's to push all of the traffic to use the Pony Express Pkwy extension by the high school (which is going to be a mess when school starts b/c there's only one lane per direction, dumb). They did the same thing with other roads in the city. When Sweetwater first opened it was 45 mph. Then the Ranches didn't like all the traffic from City Center, so they bumped up the speed limit on EM Blvd to 65 to get cars to take that way and dropped Sweetwater to 40. Dumb, no one lives on the road, it doesn't matter. Recently they dropped the speed limit on EM Blvd b/c of more growth, 4-way stop and new church. That makes sense, but I don't understand why they drop the speed limit when there is nothing around. So Yay for Pioneer Crossing, we can now get to AF more quickly from SS. Boo for SR-73 b/c it will now take longer to get to SS. Have we gained anything?

What’s the Gym?

Last summer I was laid off, which kind of took the wind out of my sails. I had little motivation to do much besides look for a job. As you know, I was extremely blessed in September with a job at FamilySearch. My workout routine became extinct. The only exercise I was getting was walking around Temple Square and would occasionally take the 7 flights of stairs to my office. In addition to that, the missionaries here feed me treats almost daily. Needless to say, I've become fat and lazy.

 

I've been looking at different gyms, trying to decide which to join. The Church has a big discount with Gold's Gym, so that was kind of tempting. Last week I had a great epiphany. There is a new Church Office Building in Riverton that has a gym. I decided to see if they would let me visit the gym, even though I don't work in that building. After a bit of paperwork, they activated my badge to give me access. Hallelujah! A FREE gym! I went yesterday to check it out. They have plenty of equipment and at 6 am, there was no one there. Today, I officially started working out again. Again, there was no one there through my whole workout. Not only do a get access to a free fitness center, but I get it all to myself. Having a buddy there would be nice though, so current Church employees, get up and come join me. Non-employees, hurry up and get a job at the Church : )

 

There is no good bus route to get on, so I now drive over and take Trax. It's definitely not as good as the bus because I can't sleep on it. Oh well, they say that if you are getting good exercise you require less sleep, so maybe it'll all work out. I can only hope!

Sprinklers

On Saturday, I replaced a busted valve.  I then ran two stations.  When it was time for the 3rd to come on, another valve started spraying and the manifold sprung a leak.  AAAARGH!  I decided I was done with trying to fix it on my own, since I've replaced at least 4 valves every year (this was only the 3rd for this year).  I called James Wilson in 8th ward.  He came over the other night.  He said that normal PSI in Eagle Mountain is 120.  He's seen it spike to 140 or 160.  He says most valves are designed to max out at 120.  No wonder I have issues.  He then told me that my jar top valves are known for busting easily, great.  Last night he came and redid both of my manifolds with commercial grade valves, put in a pressure regulator and added a big faucet drain for winterizing.  When he put the pressure regulator on, my PSI was sitting at 155.  Since I had so much pressure before, I only had 4 big heads in the back yard.  With normal pressure, that is not enough.  I now have to retrench part of my back yard, so that he can come back and add more valves and redo my sprinkler set up back there.  What a mess.  It sure will be nice when it's all done and I can work at reviving my yard.  Part of this mess was my own fault as I installed it, but most was from the builder's landscaper that did the front yard.  My advice is, if you live in EM and don't have a pressure regulator, get one.

Preach My Gospel Workout

Our stake has asked that each ward give a copy of Preach My Gospel to each 8 year old when they are baptized. Last night, a member of the bishopric asked if I would buy a case for our ward since we are out. I often buy things at Distribution for various auxiliaries in our ward since it's in the same building that I work in. Well, today I went down there to get some camp manuals for Rheanna for girl's camp and decided I would ask if they had a case of Preach My Gospel in stock. They had 1 left, so I bought it. I didn't think about what was a head of me. I had to get that case from there to my car. I picked it up off the floor and then carried it off. I decided since it was just one floor up to ground level, I could take the stairs and not bother with the elevator. By the time I got outside I was completely winded. Then I walked by the Temple and paused a few times to not get in any wedding pictures. I took a moment to set the box down on a bench before crossing the street. 22 copies of a book weigh quite a bit when you carry them that far. When it was time to cross the street, there were lots of elderly people crossing at the same time, so I had to walk slowly. By this time my back was tightening up and begging for relief. I made it inside the Conference Center and found a resting spot for the box on top of the trash can, while we waited for the elevator. When I got off on my parking level, I almost ran to the car in anticipation of finally setting this box down. Phew, I made it and could feel the relief. I just looked up the weight and it is 72 pounds. No wonder it almost killed me to carry that a block and a half.


 
Upon my return, my efforts were validated. I know sooner walked into the Joseph Smith Memorial Building than I ran into Elder Ballard. He greeted me and said that I looked a bit out of breath (I was still red in the face and recovering). I told him what I had just done and that our stake gives Preach My Gospel to each 8 year old. He thought that was fantastic and thanked our stake for our efforts to prepare missionaries. Needless to say, it was a great little conversation as he sipped on his root beer from the Nauvoo Café.

I Just Want to Sleep

This past weekend, we took a trip to Arches. We got home late, and then I had to get up early for Sunday meetings and was busy all day. Needless to say, there was no nap. Monday morning I woke up and decided that rather than stay in bed, I should get up on time and take the bus to work, so that I could nap to and from. Great idea! I decided to go to a stop on State St in Lehi, instead of the park and ride. This would allow me to get a good seat before the crowd of people get on (I sleep much better in a window seat). I got there in plenty of time. I parked at the church parking lot and waited for the light to change to cross the street. It was time for the bus to come, but no bus was coming, instead a guy pulled over in a car and said that the bus had changed its route and would not be stopping there. He was from UTA, so he called the bus and asked them to wait for me. He then offered me a ride, but I said I'd drive so that my car wasn't a mile or two away when I was trying to go home. This time, I didn't wait for the late; I just ran across traffic and hurried to the next stop. There was the bus waiting for me. It was nice that they did that. I got on the bus to find it very full and so I was left with a few aisle seats to choose from. I tried to fall asleep, but probably only dosed for a few minutes. I guess I should have just stayed in bed longer and driven myself : )

Most Transient Employee

I've now been working for FamilySearch for 6 months and absolutely love every day. My responsibilities have changed several times and have evolved into a great fit. At the same time, I have moved offices 3 times now. I first shared an office with some missionaries, which was enjoyable, but management felt bad that I wasn't treated like an employee, so I was moved. The next office was nice, near the door, across from my boss (who is the best boss ever). Then, I was moved to an ideal spot. It was a little smaller, but it was right by a huge window that looked out at the temple. What a view, I'm almost level with the spires. It was a great reminder of the work that I have the opportunity to be involved in. Unfortunately, I only had that office for 2 weeks. I have now moved to a bigger space, but instead of looking at the temple, I look at the Church Administration Building, not nearly as breathtaking. Either way, I'm happy to be here. I manage several missionaries, even some in Oregon. Each day starts with a devotional, which is exactly what I need. The only downside to it all is that there is a huge surplus of treats every day. I think it's time to get back to the gym, or move offices again, as that is beginning to be quite a workout. We'll see who can break my record of 4 offices in 6 months.

Getting it Together

A few weeks ago, we decided that we needed to revamp our FHE and also delegate more daily chores. I must say that things are much more balanced. The kids all have 2 family chores to do each day, in addition to their personal and room care. Even Alec is getting pretty good at doing dishes. The house isn’t perfect, but the difference of them really helping take care of things, makes it seem like “their” home. They get most things done before dinner and we are able to eat at 5 most every night. Then that leaves plenty of time to play, read or watch a movie before bed. I have noticed that the key with our kids is to make sure Rheanna and I are also doing some kind of chore. If we just sit and talk, read, use the computer, or are on the phone, they have little motivation to do work themselves. Work is great, and it has brought us closer together.

For Family Night, we are taking turns with lesson, activity, songs, books, and treats. Again, the difference has been nice as they all have felt empowered to really plan out what they would like to do. It’s a little more work for us, but it is far more rewarding. We've expanded our FHE to really be the full evening from when I get home until bed time. What a tremendous difference that has made them simply having it for an hour or less.

It’s crazy to think that our kids are getting older and really can do lots of things quite well. Payton, the other day, sat down and was going to change Alec’s diaper. I was willing to let her do the job, until she unhitched it and found that he was more than just wet. At least she took the effort to try.

Hungry?

Most days I eat lunch at my desk. I may then take a break and go to the top of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building and read. Then, I end up falling asleep by the observation window and wake up to tourists playing “spot the apostle” as they look down into the windows of the Church Administration Building. I had the opportunity myself, the other day in underground parking, when Elder Holland graciously stopped his car for me to walk by. Granted, I was a pedestrian, but I still had the moment of heart stop as a prophet of God stopped his car for me.

Anyway, lately I’ve been fortunate to have much more exciting lunches. I know a few people that work downtown, but none that I ever go to lunch with. Last week, Kevin was working here for a couple of days. We were able to hook up and go to the exciting church cafeteria. I realized how nice it would be to have a friend or someone to eat lunch with. Why’d the Church have to move him to Riverton just before I started working downtown?

Yesterday, Aaron finally had time to get away from work. We enjoyed Café Rio and were able to catch up on a few things. It’s amazing how little you talk with someone when you don’t carpool with them every day. Everyone just pray for Aaron to get a job at the Church and it’ll all be fixed : )

Today was the real treat. Rheanna had a doctor’s appointment in Salt Lake. She found someone to watch the kids and take them to and from school, but brought Naomi with her. I waited in the car with Naomi during the appointment. She, of course, was sleeping, so I climbed in the back and willingly took a nap with her. When Rheanna finished, we realized we had an opportunity to go out to eat together, what a great idea. Chile’s was across the street, so we relaxed and ate for a full 90 minutes. It was one of the best dates. It wasn’t at the end of the day when I was completely tired (I’d just had a nap too). We didn’t stop at Wal-Mart (where all our dates end). We discussed nothing stressful, just bliss. I have an amazing wife and it was nice to enjoy lunch with her and our cute little sleeping Naomi.

Can we make all these outings weekly occurrences? If so, I’m sure the tourists will enjoy a better view of temple square and not some guy drooling on his scriptures as he sleeps.

What will Payton's name be?

The other night we had a conversation about marriage. The kids wanted to understand why people change their names when they get married. Could they pick any name they wanted? I told them that normally the only name that is changed is the girl’s last name.

“Payton, if you marry someone with the last name of Smith, you’ll be Payton Smith.”

Hyrum said, “Payton wants to marry Dallin.”

“OK, then she’ll be Payton Ball.” Then Payton started giggling like none other (I didn’t know embarrassing crushes started that young).

When she settled down, she asked, “Why can’t he just become Dallin Payton Dow?”

Hopefully she’ll have the name thing figured out before she starts dating.