Monday, December 10, 2012

Jolly and Joyous

There will be no Christmas Carol like The Muppet's Christmas Carol. Sure the book itself should stand alone, but as far as movies go you just can't beat timeless tunes and quirky characters. Not to mention Michael Caine is just plain great.

 I've been contemplating the spirit of Christmas lately. It's a season of love and giving, but it can be hard to enjoy when you struggle to provide means to give anything other than love. I'd been feeling pretty down on myself because of that. I recognize I have many things to be thankful for, but it's hard to remember all the good when you only notice the bad.

       What brought the season this year was my first gift. Yellow mini roses, that were beautifully fragrant, and a card to remind me I'm loved. I love friends who go that little extra step to make someone's day. One of them even covered lunch! What made the season really sink in after that....was what Travis did after noticing my skin was breaking. That's right, breaking. I've gone through every lotion imaginable and lotion is a luxury we, as sensible people, can't just keep buying different brands to see what works. Does anyone else realize what a waste of money that is? You use half the bottle and say "oh it's not working", then sew-in-sew says "oh I use this it works wonders"..and now you have two halves of lotion you'll never finish. You wasteful people. I don't buy lotion until I am OUT of everything. All lotions are basically the same. Back to the point. My skin was about to bleed and I was feeling like a nudist because clothes can hurt when your skin is that dry. It doesn't help that MADISON AVENUE APARTMENTS, run by RLS MANAGEMENT is taking their sweet time fixing our heat. Cold, Naked, and mourning over skin that looks like I'm wearing a red fishnet body cover over my pregnant suit I called my mom to whine. I wasn't crying because well...no use in crying when it gets that bad. Travis disappeared to get groceries and upon returning home....he had a humidifier. He then apologized for spending what Christmas money he had saved for my gift on it.

     I did what any person with a grand reminder of being loved would do. I cried. I know our finances as well as Travis does, so I know we didn't have twenty bucks for a humidifier, but I didn't realize he had set money aside and sacrificed just so I could have a Christmas from him. It's not that we won't have Christmas, we already have presents from family under our tree, but he wanted to make sure I got a little something from him. It was the feeling that everything was right. That familiar feeling the spirit imparts to remind you that you are of great worth. It was just love. It may be hard to explain fully, but the pure love I felt from such a simple gesture was so overwhelming. Yet I'm certain I only felt a fraction as loved as I truly am.

No other gift to me this year may be received the same, but I think now I can appreciate everything else that will be given more. I promise the love behind every gift will be recognized. I believe I could go the rest of the year receiving nothing else and feel like I've had the best Christmas. All I could want I already have, and now Mariah Carey makes sense. All I want for Christmas is you. (favorite Christmas song to sing at the top of my lungs fyi)

My hope is that we can all remember what this time of year is about no matter what holiday is celebrated. And my prayer is that you can feel the love from those around you and not focus on the hustle and bustle in the quest for a great gift.

I almost want to say amen.
-Heather Rand.

Friday, November 30, 2012

Do you BLOG?!

She asked it just like that too when she put two and two together. I'm crafty...and Mormon. Let the stereotyping begin! Let's not forget she asked if I could sew too. (note: this all happened today)

I have to admit I've failed in any craft showing up on my blog. I've mostly just talked about them. It's kind of tragic actually. Travis and I reupholstered a rocking chair, but that only showed up on facebook. In my defense though, our free computer does not have an sd card reader.

I'll do my best to discuss and maybe go to the library to update on my latest crafts. I can just post pictures and tiny explanations since most of them aren't particularly difficult do-it-yourself activities. Mostly mod podge, hot glue, free stuff, fabric, and other likely crafts. Unfortunately, I can't discuss the latest homemade Christmas gifts. I can only repin mass amounts of crafts to hide which ones I actually plan on doing.

Don't you just love Christmas. The music. The lights. Christ. The love. The giving. It's all so wonderful! I oppose real life Grinch's. So forgive me if I snub you when you complain of the music, or ignore you when you complain that holidays are too drawn out or commercial. Negativity is in my head about as long as your unheard cries. 1 second. I listen like the sensible person, and then I ignore you. Don't you just LOVE that one time of year you can be overly pleasant for no apparent reason.

In family news, I had a dream that my mom flew in unexpectedly and texted me that she was at the Denver Airport and would love to be picked up. It made me wanna cry. I can feel the baby kick ALL THE TIME. It's awesome, and weird. Let me add that while I write this our parakeet takes it upon himself to viciously attack Travis' feet. He gets weirdly aggressive on rare occasion. And he's not afraid to attack a foot, or elbow flap. Maybe it's a pathetic grooming attempt. I don't know, but since Travis has been home and not working Buster has been quite loving and affectionate. He even let me reach over and pet him while he was on his cage. Usually he's most aggressive on his cage, his zone I suppose.

Till next time. Maybe crafts will appear next post. Over and Out
-Heather Rand and baby bump.

p.s. for the first time a stranger in public asked me when I was due. WOO! I'm now obviously pregnant. Not bad for 13 weeks till the due date.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Temper + Mental = Temperamental?

"It doesn't seem quite fair to accuse your hormones of causing every bloat, blemish, and emotional outburst during your pregnancy. But the truth is that this potent cocktail of chemicals really is guilty as charged, and everything that's happening to your body these days - both the good, and the not-so-good - can be pinned on them." Courtesy of Whattoexpect.com

All I hear about from everyone, including my overly supportive parents, is how "normal" all these mood swings are. Frankly, I'm so sick of the word normal. One minute I'm glowing in the perfection of a clean apartment and a husband willing to do the dishes. Fifteen minutes later I'm crying about the fact that I want Casa Ole and nothing comes close to the tex-mex franchise here in Colorado. Not to mention my anti-social tendencies that have sprung up as of late. People I normally adore are getting the cold shoulder for reasons I'm completely unaware of. People I  normally have no personal problem with easily push me to the point of saying mean things. And if you know me, you know I typically either don't think mean thoughts, or I keep them in my head. Not anymore. If you really want to know what I think just follow me around for a few minutes. Literally, I leave the room if I'm getting bored, anxious, annoyed, or that B word I loathe.


All I hear about from everyone, including my overly supportive parents, is how "normal" all these mood swings are. Frankly, I'm so sick of the word normal. One minute I'm glowing in the perfection of a clean apartment and a husband willing to do the dishes. Fifteen minutes later I'm crying about the fact that I want Casa Ole and nothing comes close to the tex-mex franchise here in Colorado. Not to mention my anti-social tendencies that have sprung up as of late. People I normally adore are getting the cold shoulder for reasons I'm completely unaware of. People I  normally have no personal problem with easily push me to the point of saying mean things. . And if you know me, you know I typically either don't think mean thoughts, or I keep them in my head. Not anymore. If you really want to know what I think just follow me around for a few minutes. Literally, I leave the room if I'm getting bored, anxious, annoyed, or that B word I loathe.


Logical is a trait I've taken great care to foster in myself. If you knew me in High School you would see how easily I could talk myself calm after even the worst break up. Simply because I knew my husband would be that much better for me. Which is something I told myself and made true. *Remember that teen girls* Now logic is a foreign concept to my mentality. I've counted and it's a good day when I don't cry more than two or three times. These tears don't have to mean anything, but it's getting ridiculous. I shouldn't be crying over the fact that I want rolls. I shouldn't cry over my hair being trimmed differently than the last girl did it. And I most definitely shouldn't cry because Travis didn't lotion me with a full body massage right (the full body massage inclusion is the result of my imagination when he says sure I'll help your dry skin). I should be grateful I have a man willing to lotion me up without any reward other than a thanks.

Feedback would be greatly appreciated because I'm beginning to wonder if I need anti-crazy pills. Last time I felt this out of control of my emotions I was prescribed anti-depressants. Which would make me feel like a wonderful mom taking those during pregnancy.

Good news is I'm 14 weeks till the due date. Hopefully, 14-16 weeks till I have my wonderful bundle of adorable joy. And not to brag, but I need to dwell on some good things, my waist is only.....drum roll....(look away if you don't wanna know) around 36" at the widest point. Thank heavens I'm my tiny mother's daughter. I'm hoping to break forty for the sake of the baby gaining the weight she needs.

Sincerely,
-Crazy Pregnant Version of Heather

Monday, November 5, 2012

Girly dinos

I wish I could theme my daughters room with pink and purple dinosaurs. We are getting really excited about all kinds of girly things over here. Ruffle bloomers being at the top of the list. I can feel her kick now and it's wonderful. It's mostly when I sit, but she is quite the active baby already. I can just imagine this little girl screaming and running up and down a hallway. Lord, bless me with the energy to handle it.

I keep turning to Travis and telling him traits I hope she has. Mostly, those Meredith eyes. I want the tear drop shaped, big blue beauties. I won't be disappointed though if she ends up with some recessive genes like my mom's brown eyes, or a big white birthmark. In fact, I think a big white birthmark will be awesome! I'm pretty excited just to have this baby actually.

23 weeks and counting. Which is in my mind, 17 weeks till I have a baby. A few times, I have been asked how far along I am and I have to think. All I see is 17 weeks left, everyone else in the world wants how far have you gone. Then there are those people who say things like, "most first born come a few weeks late." "she'll probably be late.". For you people, I honestly wanna punch you in the face. I actually wanna swat your hands and tell you that your belly touching privilege is not a right. It's a privilege that I am so friendly and allow you to touch me. Let me count down, and you keep those kinda negative things to yourself or suffer the consequences of a hormonal, pregnant woman.

Knowing that hormones are the cause when I'm thinking crazy lady thoughts does not diminish the fact that I'm thinking meanly or saying things in that tone I loathe. That "I'm so agitated by your existence" tone. I will control my anger, I'm all talk most of the time. So if you're worried any negativity will alienate you from my life, don't be. I'm pretty chill even when my mind is not sound.

On the topic of belly touching, I've noticed the people who I would be most comfortable touching my belly are the people least likely to do so. Odd. I have very polite family and friends. They almost always ask.

Now I'm off to vote. I don't want my daughter to think I skimp on my duties as a U.S. citizen. This is after all a Constitutional Republic.

-Heather Rand and Baby Bean

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Beauty is...

Subjective. Beauty is really subjective, and it differs from person to person. For example, when watching a commercial for face balm all I could think was, "wow, that model has gorgeous eyes and great angles on her face. So unique, I wish I could be blonde, etc" At which point Travis said out loud, "Why do they always use weird looking people on these commercials?"

I feel like in my previous blog I've written about this subject before. Yet, everyone appreciates being reminded that they are beautiful! Because well...we all are. Whether you have great eyes, great curves, or fabulous hair the most important beauty is within.

I love my future job. I had a client today that I have once a week and frankly, she was the only reason I didn't call in sick. Sciatica has hit my tiny little hips pretty hard. Yesterday after school Travis had to help me anytime I went from sitting to standing...or bending over. A good husband will rub his wife's hips, a great one will walk in the bathroom and help her stand up because she got stuck. Pinched nerves suck! Back to the story, this little lady who I see every week. She is so adorable, and I love to make her face just light up when she realizes she has a great hairstyle that will last till next week. She always gets the same thing, but because she is so thankful and so sweet, I really wouldn't mind.

I will have a job that solely focuses around beauty. How great do you feel after a sweet hairdo? Exactly. I don't have to focus on the worldly aspect either. I can simply remind someone what makes them beautiful, and for that I am grateful.

Look in the mirror. Now, smile. Instead of seeing flaws focus on everything anyone has told her looks great. I know that sounds hard, but if anyone at anytime(even if you've improved or digressed in your opinion) has ever told her you're beautiful try to see it. If you can't I'm sure I could find something for you, and if you're a stranger....call your mom. Moms always think their babies are beautiful. If your mom has never complimented you, then you need a hug because that is part of mom duties.

You are awesome in some way. I promise. There is also someone who loves you. That I can promise too. Those are facts you can rely on.

Sincerely,
-Heather Rand.

P.S. I'd also like to make a shout out to four wonderful, beautiful people who graduated from school today. I will miss them soooo much, but plan on keeping in touch.(via facebook stalking)

The charming prince who on many occasions has brightened my mood simply because he is so happy and bubbly all the time. Even when his hair was a few shades too dark...so dark it's black. Who do you know that simply sighs about their hair turning out wrong? Seriously?! I would flip tables over that. Best laugh.

The mother whose only goal seems to be caring for all even the compulsive liars and mean people. More Christian than many of the Christians I know. Always so willing to give. There are like a billion things I could say about how awesome you are, but if I keep going I might cry at the thought of us not seeing each other again. So we will...this is not goodbye. This is tribute.

The sassy twin with perfect eye creases. Not to sound shallow, but if I ever need a model I will for sure call you first. You were also always good for a laugh especially when you were grumpy. To see an attitude on such a pretty person seems contradicting, and it kinda always made me smile when you got all *snap "Oh no she didn't." You are also very considerate with my feelings. Not wanting to call my belly huge because you were worried it might bother me. I like being considered.

And last, but certainly not least, the quiet one. But I know your secret....you weren't really a quiet, shy individual. You have such a sweet disposition, and you never seem to expect anything from anyone. Which makes giving you pie so awesome! You had opinions, but you were never so loud as to offend. Like me, you feel confrontation is the plague and avoid it as such. Thank goodness for that, huh? I wish I had been in class with you more because I don't feel I know you as well. I know you just enough to miss you though, and I feel like that counts.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Warm Fuzzys

Travis said my last post felt angry, and it was more of a hurt post. Either way it was kinda depressing, and yesterday turned out to become amazing. I went to the temple, and when I left I felt clean and free from all concerns. Not to mention my headache left. No need to rant about bad things when there is so much to be thankful for. Now, onto my new favorite phrase...

"How are my girls?"

Nothing sounds as wonderful as Travis saying that. It was just plain awesome the first time he said that. There are in fact going to be two favorite girls in his life now, and I love it.

I'm also already madly in love with this little girl! For the first time today I felt hiccups. I felt this weird poke from the inside, kinda like a gurgle. Every time I have felt her kick or move, it is fleeting...but I would not call it a flutter. It's very distinct, if I'm paying attention. Flutters are more like...adrenaline. Anyways, the gurgle happened about three or four times ten or so seconds in between when it hit me. That was hiccups. I was so delighted, one could even feel the bounce from the outside.

I can sense the beginning of the end...and by end I mean the point where everyone has hands on you to feel a movement of your baby. Why aren't moving babies just gushed over? I guess it's appealing if they're stuffed in a warm, tight, bag of skin that happens to be attached to someone you may or may not know. A real kicking baby might hurt you, can't have that. Fortunately for the world, I've come up with some full proof excuses if I ever feel terribly uncomfortable that won't hurt feelings. I have to use the bathroom, which would probably be true. There is also the sudden inhale and quickly walk away(that could mean anything really, and I could dismiss explaining till they forget about it). My last and final way out of strange people holding onto me...a big, slobbery sneeze. Don't worry friends, if I know you I'll probably not mind at all. So far I haven't been bothered by people rubbing and talking to my belly. These excuses are mostly for the strangers in wal-mart who speak no English.

Now I'm off to crochet more literal warm fuzzys, and dream of how to decorate her room! I have vinyl and a cricut, all I need is a theme and colors really. I'm thinking woodsy creatures. Anything, but princess. Princess will set her up to be spoiled. She is a daughter of a king, but we need not put her above others. Every girl is a princess.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

General Conference Notes: The future is as bright as your faith.

I admit these are a tad vague. In some parts I left open ended questions, and I didn't take notes with some speakers. The Saturday morning session I didn't take notes until President Uchdorf began speaking, partly because I was still half asleep and partly because I love him so much! He has a wonderful accent, and as all who spoke in conference plenty important to say. He's in my favorites though, because I feel like he truly cares for all of us even though he doesn't know us. Just like Christ. It's a wonderful trait all prophets and apostles have. I also put in quotations direct quotes.

Saturday Morning (Oct. 6, 2012)

Dieter F. Uchtdorf (2nd counselor in the first presidency)

Do you have any regrets? Basic gospel principles can prevent further regrets. Do not fail to give meaningful time to loves ones. The entire ladder of worldly success does not even compare to a step on the spiritual ladder to eternal life, or the ladder that leads back to our Heavenly Father. "We are capable of so much more. Good intentions are not enough." We must be living examples of Christ.

The more we rely on the Savior's grace the more we will feel we are on the right path. External circumstances do no matter nor determine our happiness. We determine our own level of happiness. "It's not a race, it's a journey. Enjoy the moment." It is foolish to anticipate and focus on the end. "Do we say our prayers with only the Amen in mind?" "Life is not meant to only be appreciated in retrospect."

Anything essential is invisible to the eyes. Let us resolve to spend more time with those we love.

Saturday Afternoon (Oct. 6, 2012)

Elder L. Tom Perry (quorum of the twelve apostles)

Marriage and raising children should be our highest priority. Set the righteous example for our children. Teaching in the home is the most sacred responsibility. You are responsible to teach by example as well as principle.

Elder M. Russell Ballard (of the twelve apostles)

Burdens are lighter with the efforts of many. In our morning prayers, ask for Heavenly Father to guide you to the opportunity to serve others. He likened our efforts until the efforts of a single honey bee. A single honey bee makes approx. 1/12 of a teaspoon of honey, but with thousands of bees the efforts of many can be of great value. 

Elder Larry Echo Hawk (first quorum of the seventy)

He basically bore his testimony about the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ.

Elder Robert C. Gay (first quorum of the seventy)

Would you sell your soul for a nickel? We must go straight away to heed the promptings of the Lord. God forsakes no one. "My testimony is my most prized possession."

Elder Scott D. Whiting (first quorum of the seventy)

We are each made of the finest materials. Strive for perfection. Do our best to live our lives worthy of the temple.

Elder Neil L. Anderson (of the twelve apostles)

Did we not come to Earth to accept the challenges God has laid before us? So we can receive the blessings God has promised us. True principles are taught frequently. They are not hard to find. Our trials need not be spiritually fatal. A witness follows the trial of your faith. "Fear not, for God shall be with you forever and ever."

Elder Dallin H. Oaks (of the twelve apostles)

It is our responsibility to protect the well being of children. We are all under Heavenly Father's commandment to protect those who need protecting. It is a serious sin to deny a child birth. Children are role models of humility and teachability. We should become humble as little children, and reach out to protect them.

Sunday Morning (Oct. 7th, 2012)

Elder Jeffery R. Holland (of the twelve apostles)

"Do you love me more than you love all this?" Why are you here? Did not my life and my love matter more than all this? Did we at least understand the first and greatest commandment, that thou shalt love the Lord. If ye love me, keep my commandments. Love God and remain clean and free from the sins of the world. We will not look back until the work is finished.

President Thomas S. Monson (prophet, seer, and president of the church)

Rather than dwell on the negative, look back on all the blessings even seemingly small and insignificant. Take an inventory of your life, and look at the blessings large and small that you have received. Never postpone the inspiration of a prompting. Pray to be an instrument in the Lord's hands. Missions are essential. The Lord is in the details of our lives.

Sunday Afternoon (Oct. 7th, 2012)

Elder Robert D. Hales (of the twelve apostles)

What does it mean to be a Christian? Take upon us the name of Christ. Faithful Christians will always be blessed with trials and challenges. Do not be afraid or feel inadequate to do the work of the Lord. Value everyone. Have compassion for all. Bless those that curse us.

Elder Richard G. Scott (of the twelve apostles)

Be better about family history work. A sure way to eliminate the influence of Satan is to complete family history work. Follow up in the temple. Work that we can do on Earth, and will remain in Heaven. Set aside things that don't matter for work of eternal value.

Brother Russell T. Osguthorpe (Sunday School General Presidency)

Conversion is not an event, but a lifelong quest to become like our Savior. Knowing, doing, becoming. Like Alma we can become new. The Atonement (John 3:16) should not be an abstract concept. Like the Nephites, return home, and ponder the things said and pray what we can do.

Elder Marcus B. Nash (first quorum of the seventy)

Do not discard faith for reason. Faith and reason are like wings of a place. Both are essential to fly. Seek learning by study, and by faith. Doubt not, fear not. The god of miracles, who changes not, will help us through our trials. The future is as bright as your faith.

Elder Daniel L. Johnson (first quorum of the seventy)

Why serve after great trials, why use scarce and precious resources to help another? The path is not easy, but as we strive to help others and become more like Christ we can grow closer to him. Be in the world, not of the world. Not to endure storms, but succeed through them. Being a disciple of Christ is setting an example. Discipleship is about doing and becoming. Actions speak louder than words.

Elder Don R. Clarke (first quorum of the seventy)

Express gratitude for the sacrament. We can feel forgiven after the sacrament by pondering our sins and mistakes. We can feel clean.

Elder David A. Bednar (of the twelve apostles)

Jesus Christ is our Savior. Any honest seeker of truth can be converted. Ask with a sincere heart and contrite spirit if these things are true. Ask and ye shall receive. Have a firm determination to improve. Testimony is a point of departure, not a destination.

President Thomas S. Monson (president of the church, and prophet to the world)

Watch to help others in their time of need. Do not judge others. Be of good cheer. The Lord loves us and is always mindful of us. The purpose of mortality is to learn and grow; to become more like the Savior. Be of good cheer. (he said that twice so I figured it was important)






Monday, September 24, 2012

Let The Fall Begin

One thing I feel you all need to know about me, and if you didn't already know then you may have been suspicious.

First things first, fall colors do few people justice. 80% of everyone has cool skin tones, google it if you're curious which you are (I'd bet it's cool). Nothing to be ashamed of. It basically means you look good in blue tones versus orange. I am a winter. Hot pink, bright blue, navy blue. Surprisingly those colors are very winter. I refuse to wear black when it's white and classy outside. White and black backdrop, BAM colored dress. Yet, every fall I see the same thing. Brown. Everywhere. Brown on the trees, brown to your knees (giant sweater dresses). Some people have the impression that brown warms up your skin and does everyone justice. In other news, I'm pregnant. Now back to topic. To those people I say try this. Get your favorite brown coat/shirt/giant scarf and hold it up to your face. Now, get your favorite other color (preferably cool, blue/purple/light pink/any green but olive green) and hold it up to your face. Do this a few times in good lighting(outdoors) and you'll see what I mean. Brown makes you look orange. And if you don't mind that, dye your hair a hue of orange and let me know how you like it. (a decision I will regret until my hair grows out) Needless to say, I'm wearing blue and cream today. Ahah! Cream, bet you didn't see that coming.
     Browns are great as an accent. Shoes, purse, tiny part of patterned shirt. There is your fashion lesson for today, but it's mostly a haircolor lesson. Hair color refers to natural color of hair. Haircolor(one word) has been coined for the industry of hair, and it refers to the colors a hair professional uses. In haircolor I learned a valuable lesson. I will never be a redhead. I was a little heartbroken, but seeing that orange swatch of hair up to my face made me run in the opposite direction. The same rule applies to clothes. Makeup...do whatever you like. It's not the same in makeup at all. Except if you have blue eyes, never wear blue eye makeup. Greens never wear green, but browns can wear every color on their eyes.

I wonder how many people read carefully today.
Yours Truly,
    Heather Rand

Monday, September 10, 2012

Same blog, New email, Annoyed by google

Pretty self explanatory. I needed a new email because there is something so not professional about foxiecheese202 as a username. Yet, blogger will not let me attach my new gmail address to my old blog. So I'll just delete my old blog, ask you to follow this one. And let all my previous posts drift into the abyss of dead blogs.

So if you know me via facebook. Follow this. This is Heather....not foxycheese202.

-Heather Rand.