Welcome To MY Little Corner Of The World

Day 16 - Hard habit to break

2011-12-14T08:00:00.034-07:00

A habit you wish you didn't have

Oh geez... where do I even start?! I have a lot of bad habits that I wish I could shake. I think the one that has been the most bothersome to me lately is my habit of just tossing stuff on my bed. When I get home from shopping... I toss the recently bought goodies on my bed. When I'm frantically searching the pile of freshly laundered clothes that I have yet to hang up for something to wear... I toss the unwanted items on my bed. When I'm looking for a quick hiding place for presents... I lift up my blanket and toss them on my bed. When I'm trying to clean up another room in the house and my first step is to get my things out of that room... I toss those things on my bed. I think you get the idea.

Most recently this lil' habit of mine became a huge inconvenience. All these lil' occurances, among others, happened at one time and my bed was a heaping pile of foolishness! I ended up sleeping on the couch for a week-ish because I was too overwhelmed with the pile to clean it up. I even had a bit of a breakdown one night whilst trying to take care of it. But the good news is that I did it! I was able to clean it off, put everything in its place, and have a fabulously restful night of sleep. Ahhh, sweet relief.

Now I just have to keep myself from creating that heaping pile of foolishness again. Heaven help me!

Day 15 - Picture Perfect

2011-12-13T08:00:00.063-07:00

A photo of your family

It's no secret that I adore my family and believe that we are the raddest family out there. I have such fun memories of the time spent with them and I'm grateful that some of them have been captured. I'm going to share more than one picture... because I can and because I want to.

Introducing the one and only...

A classic family pic at Christmas... Aunt Paula always insisted.

One of many outings to Alpine Slide.

One of my all-time faves. Please notice all the various facial expressions.

All because these two wonderful people fell in love.

Courtesy of Haley's outstanding photography skills... The whole fam (at the time) in 2008

Me and the bros

Scott's lil' fam

Chuck's lil' fam

Jared's lil' fam

Most current pick of the awesome Millers... minus Tay, Rach and Mickey

I'm such a lucky girl to have these wonderful people as my family forever.

Day 14 - Home Sweet Home

2011-12-12T08:00:00.049-07:00

Describe your dream home

I wish there was a way to take pictures of my thoughts. I've got my dream home perfectly designed inside my head, but I can't describe it very well. But now that Pinterest has entered my life, I'm able to show you some of my ideas. Here are a few of the basics...

My mornings would be so much more enjoyable if I could eat breakfast in a nook like this.

A simple library like this would be lovely.

Gorgeous staircases like this would be heavenly.

I've always dreamed of having my own secret garden... this door would be perfect for it!

I'd love a house with this much charm. The color is absolutely amazing!

A big porch with chairs and swings to relax on is a must.

And if a sweet ride like this was parked in the driveway, I'd be a very happy girl. :)

Day 13 - Freaky Friday

2011-12-11T08:00:00.045-07:00

Someone you would want to switch lives with for 1 day and why

There have been a few different things that have crossed my mind when I've thought about this. While I'm sure I could think of someone specifically that I'd like to switch lives with, all that has really popped into my head are general ideas.

For instance, I'd love to switch lives with a woman who has been married for maybe 10-ish years and has children. Being as single as a person could possibly be, I think it would be awesome to see what it's like to have a husband and children. Even if it's complete chaos for that one day, it would be worth it to me to have that experience.

I'd also love to switch lives with someone who is a daredevil. Someone who isn't afraid to jump out of planes, or snowboard down those ridiculously steep and dangerous mountainsides. Someone who gets an idea in their head to try something new and exciting and then follows through with it immediately. I'm not that way at all. I'm terrified of falling, failing, or getting hurt. I'd love to be someone adventurous for one day to feel all those thrills and be care-free.

One last one that just occured to me... How awesome would it be to trade lives with a genius? I'd love to live a day as a scientific or mathematic genius. To have figures and data and experiments thrown at me and be able to come up with solutions quickly and confidently. I can't help but think of The Big Bang Theory when I consider this. If Sheldon Cooper were a real person, he would be the person I'd love to switch with!

I guess you could sum it up in one simple way... I'd love to trade lives with anyone who is something I'm not. A mother, wife, daredevil, genius, risktaker, athlete, celebrity, artist, and the list could go on and on.

Let me just say though... I do love being me. :)

Day 12 - Want List Topper

2011-12-10T07:00:00.002-07:00

Something you want to buy

Isn't she a beaut?! I've been craving one of these sweet rides for a very long time. The craving was especially strong when I went to the Oregon Coast. I was itchin' to hop on a sweet cruiser and ride up and down the Prom. It would have been heavenly. Pardon me, it will be heavenly. It's one of my goals in life... ride a cruiser on the Prom in Seaside. Anyway, the plan so far is to get this magnificent bike when I reach my goal weight. Talk about an awesome reward and excellent motivation! Time to get movin'!

Day 11 - Good buys

2011-12-09T06:40:00.000-07:00

Something you bought recently

I was walking through the Deseret Book located in Layton Hills Mall and not really seeing anything that I was interested in getting. But then, I wandered into the home decor section and my eyes beheld the cutest thing I'd seen in a long time! I wanted it so badly, but my responsible side stopped me from getting it. It was about a week later when I couldn't take it anymore, I called the local Deseret Book to see if they had said item. They didn't. Big frown. I then called the Deseret Book in the mall to see if they still had it. They did! Big smile! I asked them to put it on hold and told the nice man I'd be there aqap to get it. I was actually a bit giddy... Yes, I'm a dork and I'm aware of it. Anyway, my brother and I made our way to the mall and I finally got what I had been waiting for! Are you ready?! If you don't think it's as cute as I do, that's okay. I love it enough for everyone!

Day 9 - To Do

2011-12-07T14:55:00.005-07:00

(Yes, it's several months later and I'm picking up where I left off with this challenge ... Don't judge me!)

Short term goals for this month

You're lookin' at the Queen of making goals and not following through with them. If I were to show you all the Post-It notes I have of "To Do" lists without any checkmarks, you would be astonished! I feel so productive making the lists and have high hopes that I'll follow through with them. Then life happens, and my laziness kicks in, and I move on to the next list. This is one of the things I'm trying to change about myself... Starting now.

1. Get my sleeping schedule on track... same bedtime every night, same waking time every morning.

2. Start walking Jessi consistently. Twice a week will do for now.

3. Read through my Primary lesson and the accompanying scriptures every day.

4. Do something for someone else at least once a day.

Change is good!

2011-12-06T15:00:00.001-07:00

I can't even begin to express how grateful I am for my current job.
Every day I find another reason to love this place.
My co-workers are so friendly... they care about me and notice when I'm gone.
My supervisor is approachable... she answers all my questions with a smile.
The atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable.
I have my very own desk/cubicle space.
I can decorate it and make it mine.
I can get up from my desk whenever I want.
I can have snacks at my desk without having to hide them in my purse and sneak bites.
I have a fixed work schedule and don't have to worry about being sent home early if there is no work.
If there is no work in our department, other departments trust us to help them with their work.
I'm recognized for my hard work and taught new things when needed.
I have job security and don't have to wonder every day if I'll have a job tomorrow.
I have a steady paycheck and benefits that started on day one.
I work only 4 days a week and therefore have the 3 day weekend I've always wanted.
I get paid days off for holidays.
I can listen to Pandora all day.
I can keep in contact with family and friends through email and phone calls throughout the day.
I can wear jeans, moccasins and a hoodie every day without feeling underdressed.
My co-workers keep me entertained with their gossiping and random observations.
Cards are passed around to be signed on co-workers' birthdays... and for a reason we still can't figure out, everyone tapes a quarter to the card.
Someone is always putting out food for everyone to snack on. (For about 2 weeks straight, there was always a new cheeseball... I still don't understand the appeal.)
People from other departments smile at me and say hi as I walk past them.
A certain co-worker is always yelling out "Google it!"... and making me giggle every time.
I won't lose my job or have an "official discussion" with my supervisor if I'm a minute late.
I can keep my refridgerated snacks in the fridge for an entire week without worrying about them being thrown out or stolen.
There is always ice available for my water.
I am the only one who uses my computer so I don't have to worry about what germ-y hands have been all over it.
I can work at my own pace and not have someone breathing down my neck.
The departments come together for fun things like the 12 Days of Christmas... free delicious meals for the 3 weeks before Christmas and all I have to supply is dessert on one of those days.
I've already earned plenty of sick and annual leave hours to help make up for the days I've been sick.

The list really could go on and on. I just felt the need to get all these things down in writing to help me remember how grateful I am for this job. It couldn't have come at a more perfect time. It was a rough road to get here, and one that I never want to go down again. I hope to work here at the Utah State Tax Commission for a very long time. I love it here. I really, really do.

Day 8 - Memoriiiies

2011-07-19T22:31:00.023-06:00

A favorite photo

This is one "favorite" that wasn't hard for me to choose. The photo I picked is one of me, my nephew Taylor and my niece Rachel. It's from back in high school when I used to watch them every day after school. Those were some of the funnest days of my life. I'm grateful that I was able to have that time to spend with them and increase the bond that we have. It was fun to watch them grow and experience new things. It was also really fun to take silly pictures with them. Here's to the good ol' days. Love you munchkins!

Day 7 - Wise words

2011-07-18T13:00:00.001-06:00

A favorite quote

I refuse to pick a favorite today. I just don't want to do it and I'm not going to! So instead I'm going to share a bunch of quotes that I thoroughly enjoy. I'll spare you from having to read why I like them and where I discovered them. I'll just let you form your own opinions. Enjoy!

"I've made mistakes in my life. I've let people take advantage of me, and I've accepted way less than I deserve. But, I've learned from my bad choices and even though there are some things I can never get back and people who will never be sorry, I'll know better next time and I won't settle for anything less than I deserve."
"What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Nothing worth having is ever easy"
"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.
"If you believe you can tell me what to think, I believe I can tell you where to go." - Zumiez button
"Our lives are like the course of the sun...at the darkest moment there is the promise of daylight."
"The happiest people don't have the best of everything...they make the best of everything they have."
"I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together." - Marilyn Monroe
"I'm selfish, impatient, and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control, and at times hard to handle, but if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best." - Marilyn Monroe
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem."
"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are." - Kurt Cobain
"Please, when fleeing the scene of temptation - do not leave a forwarding address." - Elder Holland

Day 6 - Turn it up!

2011-07-17T21:45:00.000-06:00

A favorite song

Picking favorites is hard. I currently have a playlist on my computer entitled "My Faves" that contains about 90 songs... and the list isn't even complete. I'll spare you from having to read and/or listen to all 90... for now. :) The way I made this choice was to look at my "most played" list. The winner? Have It All - Jeremy Kay

I first heard this song when I was listening to the Scrubs soundtrack. I immediately fell in love and repeated it over and over for an hour. Listening to it gives me a nice lil' boost of hope that someday I really will have it all. Whenever it comes on I can't help but sing along and smile. If you don't feel the same way after listening, I'll be shocked! Let me know what you think.

Day 5 - Yummy in my tummy

2011-07-16T22:24:00.000-06:00

A favorite food

What are those delicious looking treats? Those, my friends, are blonde brownies. They are heaven sent! I'm not even exaggerating one bit when I tell you that they are the most amazingly delicious treat to ever have touched my taste buds. These were first introduced to me when I was a little girl. My Gramma used to make them for family parties. At that time I was not a fan of them. I have no idea what my problem was! A few years ago at one of the previously mentioned family parties I was near starving and grabbed the first treat I could find. I grabbed one of these brownies and my life was changed. The container had to be taken away from me because I was eating too many. :) My awesome Mother has been kind enough to make them for me a few times and I've had to keep myself from eating the entire pan. They are great with a big ol' glass of milk. They are great with some ice cream and chocolate syrup. They are great, great, great! My mouth is watering just thinking about them. I might have to make some tomorrow... Yep, definitely.

Day 4 - Book smart

2011-07-15T22:34:00.000-06:00

A favorite book

How does one pick a favorite book? I surely don't know. I love reading. I read as much as possible. I've read many good books. It's really difficult for me to pick a favorite book though. As I sit here and think about which one I could possibly choose, I'm at a loss. I suppose I could tell you a book that I've read multiple times... I should probably be a little embarassed by it, but I'm not. (I should probably mention that I kind of love self help/self improvement books. Lame, I know... but I can always find some helpful information in them.) Anyway...the book I'm talking about?

He's just not that into you.

Yes, I've read it.... multiple times. Yes, I learn something new from it every time. Yes, it makes me laugh out loud... the people on the plane to California really loved that. I've written down some of my favorite advice from the book and look back at it often. If you're single and struggling with guys who can't seem to make up their mind about you... Read it. You'll be glad you did.

Day 3 - Movie madness!

2011-07-14T22:50:00.000-06:00

A favorite movie

One of my all time favorite movies is Gidget. If you haven't seen it (or even heard of it), I'll cry for you tonight. It's one of those movies I can watch a billion times and never get sick of. In fact, I think I have watched it a billion times. Anyway, it's about a girl who just wants to fit in. She doesn't fit in with her girl friends, so she takes up surfing to fit in with the boys. Attagirl! I would have done the same thing. Maybe that's why I like her so much. It's pretty cheesy and predictable, but I love cheesy and predictable. You should watch it. Right now. I'm going to. :)

Day 2 - Explain, please!

2011-07-13T22:57:00.001-06:00

The meaning behind your blog name

I'm pretty sure that when I first started my blog it was called "Jodi's blog". Unbelievably clever, I know. But as I took the time to think about what a good title would be I thought of lines from movies, quotes I'd heard, nicknames I've been given, or lines from my favorite songs. Finally it hit me... one of my favorite songs. It comes from the soundtrack from one of my favorite shows... Gilmore Girls. Can I just say... if you haven't seen this show - you should. I love it. I've always loved it. I have all seven seasons on dvd if you ever want to borrow them. Anyway, besides the show being absolutely hilarious, it's got some great tunes on it. I bought the soundtrack many, many years ago and have listened to it hundreds of times. Some of my favorite songs come from this soundtrack, but the one that jumped out at me is: My Little Corner of the World, by Yo La Tengo. Have a listen... My Little Corner of the World

I've always felt like I live in my own little world, so this song seems pretty appropriate. This blog is all about sharing my little world with you, whoever you are. So welcome. I hope you enjoy it. :)

Day 1 - Random Jodi facts

2011-07-12T22:07:00.001-06:00

A picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself.

1. I've lived in the same house (even the same bedroom) for my entire life.
2. It bothers me immensely when people spell my name wrong.
3. I'm allergic to penicillin.
4. I'm always willing to help someone in need...but absolutely cannot ask for help myself.
5. I eat M&Ms in even numbers and Skittles by color.
6. I'm mildly obsessed with Sharpies and Post-It notes.
7. I don't have a middle name.
8. Coloring can keep me entertained for hours.
9. I love watching Disney movies...but will fast forward through the scary or sad parts.
10. I alphabetize anything that can be alphabetized.
11. I drink more milk than anyone I know.
12. If there is something you want broken - I can take care of that for you. If there is something you want fixed - I know a guy.
13. I love Math. Love it. I do Math problems for fun. Yes... for fun.
14. I cannot go one day without chocolate.
15. Often times I'll say things out loud without realizing it. Often times they are things that shouldn't be said out loud.

A bit behind the times

2011-07-12T21:26:00.003-06:00

I've never been much of a trendy person. Well, at least not during the time when the trend is "in". I tend to fall way behind. In this case, I'm way behind on the good ol' 30 day blog challenge that it seemed like all the bloggers I stalk were taking part in. I had every intention of participating, but school kinda got in the way. Now that I'm only in school part-time and feel like spilling my guts to the cyberworld, why not try out the challenge? I noticed that some of the lists were different, so I picked the questions I would most like to answer and built my own list. If anyone out there wants to use my list and do the 30 day blog challenge along with me... please do!

My 30 Day Blog Challenge Questions

1. a picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
2. the meaning behind your blog name
3. a favorite movie
4. a favorite book
5. a favorite food
6. a favorite song
7. a favorite quote
8. a favorite photo
9. short term goals for this month
10. a picture of you and your friends
11. something you bought recently
12. something you want to buy
13. someone you would want to switch lives with for 1 day and why
14. describe your dream home
15. a photo of your family
16. a habit you wish you didn't have
17. a picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
18. hopes, dreams and plans for the next 365 days
19. something you're proud of in the past few days
20. your last five facebook statuses
21. what would we find in your purse
22. a picture of somewhere you have been
23. nicknames you have and where they came from
24. someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
25. a pic of something that makes you happy
26. what makes you different from everyone else
27. something you crave
28. your testimony
29. a place you love
30. a pic of you last year and now, how have you changed

Dropped the ball...

2011-04-01T10:17:00.000-06:00

But I've picked it back up!! So after my last OCJFTB post, I did pretty good with the working out and eating better. But then I dropped the ball. It happens. But I've picked it back up again and I'm on Day 2 of my exercise/eat right routine. I know it's kind of strange to post on only the 2nd day, but I figure if I remind myself of how great I'm feeling, I'll be more inclined to keep it up. :)

Yesterday was a great day! I was up early, so I decided to hop on the treadmill. I just did a short walk but I definitely felt it! And I felt great for the rest of the day! I had tons of energy during class and didn't even need a power nap at work! That's a first. haha. I even prepared some snacks to eat throughout the day. My nibble snack was a bag of almonds. They are super yummy and perfect for sneaking at work. :)

Today it took me a little longer to hop on the treadmill. I was dressed for working out as soon as I got up, but I did anything I could to procrastinate it. That's just how I roll. haha. I finally got my butt in gear and took a walk and lifted some weights while I watched Conan. It was a good time! I'm already feeling the energy kick in. Time to go eat some yummy strawberries!

Just gotta keep reminding myself that this is for ME! A healthy Jodi is a happy Jodi, and I love being happy!! :)

OCJFTB

2011-02-08T14:14:00.000-07:00

What in the world does that mean? - Operation Change Jodi For The Better.

This is something that I've been working on for a while now. Last year sometime I got to thinking about all the things in my life that weren't quite up to par. I won't divulge the whole list - partly because some of the things are personal, and partly because it's embarassing the amount of things I need to work on. I've slowly but surely been working on this list - taking things one at a time to keep myself from being overwhelmed.

This particular post is for one specific item on that list - My health. I am not healthy. I eat crappy food. I rarely eat the healthy stuff. My weight is humiliating, to say the least. Now, I'm not posting about this because I'm fishing for compliments and hoping that anyone who reads this will tell me how amazing I look and that I don't need to change a thing. What I'm hoping for is some tips, support and I suppose some straight to the point encouragement. I need to make better food choices, and I absolutely have to start exercising so that I can get in better shape and lose some weight.

Last year I took a health class for school. I'll be honest - I took it to get the credit out of the way. But in the end, I really enjoyed it and it helped me a lot. But after the class was over, I gave up. I stopped watching what I ate and I stopped exercising. I truly believe that the only reason I was so diligent about it was because I was being graded. Is that horrible, or what?! I just don't have the motivation to exercise! I find it boring. If I could just play soccer like I did back in the day, I'd be fine. But getting on a treadmill, doing aerobics, lifting weights, pilates, taebo, whatever other class they have out there, just doesn't appeal to me normally. But as soon as I was getting graded for doing those things, I was all about it. So lame.

So here's where the reason for this post comes in - I need to be accountable to someone for my actions regarding my health. It's clearly not working for me to be accountable to myself, and when my family asks or encourages me I just ignore them. So I'm putting the pressure on you, whoever is reading...

Would you, could you, will you please check up on me? Just a little "hey, how's the eating better and exercising going?" I'm also planning on posting regularly about my progress, so you can keep tabs on me that way. Also, if you have any tips or tricks or words of encouragement about anything and everything - I'll take those too! Consider me a complete newbie into the world of physical activity - so share any advice you've got! What should I be doing? What should I avoid?

I greatly appreciate any help y'all would be willing to give. Just thinking that someone out there is keeping tabs on me will help me to do better. So thank you in advance, even if you're just a silent partner in this.

Here's to a more healthy, more confident, better lookin' Jodi!! Wish me luck!

T-money!!

2011-01-08T10:00:00.016-07:00

Would you like to meet the most mature, most helpful, most talented, most polite, most handsome, silliest, tallest, chattiest yet shyest, best hug-giving 11 year old on the planet?! Well here you go!

This handsome young man is my nephew Taylor, and I just love his freakin' guts!

Taylor is just, hands down, the coolest kid I know! For real. You won't understand how awesome this kid is until you meet him for yourself, but I'll give you a little idea...

Things I love about Taylor:

his hugs - No one, and I mean no one, can give a hug like this kid can. They are incredible!
his "Miller" sense of humor - An 11 year old who can keep up with the sarcasm that flies in this house? Unheard of, you might say! But he keeps up, and sometimes gets ahead.
his maturity - I have a hard time remembering that he is only in 5th grade. I sometimes talk to him as if he is an adult. He just acts so grown up.
his athleticism - watching his baseball and football games are so much fun! The kid has talent, I tell ya. He's gonna go places!
his love for his Dad - Man oh man, just thinking about this makes me tear up. You can just tell by watching them for 5 minutes how much Taylor loves Jared. It's awesome.
his willingness to help out - Do you know any 11 year olds who walk in the door and immediately ask if there are any projects or things that need to be done? He loves helping out - with anything and everything - and sometimes my Mom will specifically wait to do certain things because she knows that Taylor would want to help us.
his laugh - So goofy!
his smile - So cheesy!
his ticklishness - I can't help but give his sides a little poke anytime I walk past.
his hugs - Yes, I'm mentioning this again. I can't get enough of them! He will just randomly walk up to me and hug me... It makes my heart melt every time!
his love for all things that his Dad loves - longboarding, skate shoes, zip-up hoodies, random foods, etc.
his love for Math - (that was his answer the last time I asked him) What Aunt who is going to be a Math teacher wouldn't love that her nephew is a Math nerd too?
his uber-chattiness one minute, then uber-shyness the next - He's a lot like his Aunt in this area. :)
the fact that when we're at home he is super excited about the idea of running errands with me, but once we actually get to running those errands he only wants to be home
the fact that he will randomly start doing situps and pushups because he is "bored" - What a freak! Where does that come from?!
his ability to find the candy stashes in the house
his inability to find a garbage can

Taylor, you make my life a little better everytime you come around. I hope you stay the way you are and never ever change. I love you T-money and I always will!!

Mucho lova from your favorite - Aunt Jodi

Happy Birthday Konnie!

2011-01-03T10:00:00.006-07:00

Wow. I don't even know where to start in spotlighting Konnie. She is amazing! I don't think I've ever met a woman with as much love and compassion for total strangers as this woman has.
I met Konnie on my first night of Institute. I'll be honest with you... I did not want to be there. I had just graduated from high school and quite frankly - I felt too young to be there. Not that everyone else was old, I just didn't want to feel like a grown up yet. As I walked into Viewmont High's Seminary building, Konnie was there to greet me with a huge smile on her face and a warm Hello. I instantly felt welcome and comfortable. I didn't even want to go to class. I wanted to stay out in the hall and talk to this fabulous stranger who I felt like I had known forever. For the record, I did go to class and enjoyed it, and then I got the chance to talk to Konnie afterwards. She asked all sorts of questions about me and seemed genuinely interested in knowing who I was. I decided then and there that I would return.

After going to Institute for a few months, I was called to be the Stake YSA Female Representative. Guess who I got to work with?! Konnie!! (And her awesome husband and a great guy named John Hess... I guess I was excited to work with them too. haha) Konnie continued to bless my life with her amazing attitude, kind words and awesome example. I am forever changed because of her. I did things that I never thought I would as far as leadership, planning and outings go. It was because of her love and support that I was able to accomplish those things.

Some things Konnie taught me:

How to speak my mind and voice my opinions without being afraid
That I can conduct a meeting without putting my foot in my mouth
How to make chocolate covered strawberries (teaching me the self control to not eat most of them during the process wasn't as successful)
How to reach out to others in a sincere and meaningful way
That I can do things which may scare or intimidate me
That I truly am addicted to treats and going to her house after she bakes is an extremely dangerous thing
How to rely on the Lord when times are tough, and even when they're not so tough
That great friends find you when you least expect it

I will forever love this woman! I wish I could introduce her to everyone I know. She's that great! Konnie, I just love you so much! Not only for how you've helped me grow in the Gospel and in my personal life, but also for all the yummy foods you've introduced me to! :)

PS: I just had to include this next picture! It was taken the same evening as the one above. Konnie and her husband, Lynn, were leaving to serve a mission and John and I wanted to get some pictures with them. The first picture I showed was the "cute one". Then I said to make a silly face! I cropped the boys out because they didn't participate. But how fun is it that Konnie and I made the same face?! Gosh I love her!!

Birthday Spotlights

2011-01-01T10:00:00.001-07:00

Ya know those clever bloggers who have specific things to post about on certain days of the week? Or who do special spotlights for people? Well... I want to try to be like them. I think I'll start by trying out the birthday spotlight thing. I wanted to start doing it last year, but then I kept procrastinating and feeling bad that I didn't start at the beginning of the year. But it's a new year and I can start now, right?! Let's just hope I can remember and keep it up! We'll see how well I do with this month. I have lots of special people in my life with birthdays in January. It'll be a real test! Here goes nothin'!

A test of my commitment

2010-11-15T11:51:00.004-07:00

Yesterday, as I was getting ready for church and putting the finishing touches on my lesson for Primary, I started to think about things I was grateful for. Thanksgiving season does that to all of us, right?! Anyway, I kept thinking about how grateful I am for my calling as a Primary teacher. I really can't express in words how much it means to me. I had been wishing and hoping and praying to get called back into the Primary... and a couple of months ago, my prayers were answered!

So when I say 'called back' it's because when I was 19, I was called to teach the CTR 5 class. They were just the cutest lil' things! It broke my heart when I was released. But after 5 years, I am back and teaching those same cute lil' things... plus a few more, who are equally as cute! I guess none of them are "lil'" though, since they are now 9-10 years old. I honestly love this class. They are some of the funniest, most adorable, and absolutely the smartest kids I've met. I'm amazed at how much they know and remember. They are amazing! I love every moment I get to be around them.

Anyway, I was tested yesterday.

Yesterday was just like any other Sunday for me... I was excited and nervous for class. I felt totally prepared for the lesson, and thought that nothing could go wrong... That was my mistake. I knew class was going to be a bit rough because during opening exercises every single one of the kids had a wiggle problem. I couldn't get them to sit still or stop talking for even a second. I thought it would pass though... I honestly did. Last week, they struggled during opening exercises, but after a little talking to before class, they all behaved quite well. I was hoping the same would happen this week. It didn't.

When we got into the room, it was madness. Chairs banging around, giggling, loud voices... I shushed and shushed and begged for reverence. I reminded them of last week and how they had struggled, but turned it around. I asked that they do the same this week. It didn't happen. I had to stop the lesson numerous times because of endless inappropriate giggling, talking, and random noises. It was frustrating. I even stopped at one point and asked them why they acted like this for me and not for Teacher Ali. (She's a good friend, and the other teacher for the class... they are nearly angels for her.) I asked them what I was doing wrong. Was I not a good teacher? Did they not take me seriously? You should know that at this point, I was nearly in tears. I had to fight them back. I had to fight back the urge to walk out of the room. I told myself to get through the lesson and everything would be fine.

I did get through the lesson. It was rough going, but it happened. As I ended class, I begged them to be reverent during Sharing/Singing time. I reminded them that they were the Senior Primary, and their leaders expected great things from them. Who knows if they were even listening? I sent them to the Primary room. I grabbed the wonderful, caring, helpful Primary President and pulled her aside, telling her that she was more than welcome to assign them seats. She did. I love her for that.

Here's where my commitment was tested. She pulled me out into the hall during Singing Time to talk to me about the plans for next year. She asked if I wanted to keep being a Primary teacher. I eagerly said "Yes!!". Then she mentioned that this current class is a handful and they (the Presidency) were considering moving me and Ali to another class. I broke down in tears at this point. (It's no surprise... it happens often) I told her that after a day like I had had, you'd think I'd want to be moved. But I absolutely, positively did NOT want to teach another class. Ali and I have talked about it, and we want to stay with this class more than anything! She kept smiling at me and asking if I was sure. I know the tears and blubbering might make it seem like I wasn't... but I was!

I truly believe that, even though yesterday was really rough, I was given this calling for a reason. Whether it's for the children to learn something from me, or for me to learn something from the children... I don't know. But I know there is something that will come from this calling and I want to be given the chance to figure it out. I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunity that I get to be a teacher. It's fulfilling for me. I feel like I have a purpose. I'm so grateful for each and every one of the kids in my class. They are all unique and special and it's so fun to learn more about them. I'm grateful for Teacher Ali... a long time friend who is so helpful and supportive and absolutely the creative one on the team. She is incredible and I love getting to work with her. This calling is such a blessing. I'm grateful for it. Unbelievably grateful.

I'm a lucky girl.

2010-08-15T22:25:00.016-06:00

I have an awesome friend.

I like to call her Squirt.

We've had some crazy adventures together.

She makes me laugh.

Recently, we had one of those crazy adventures.

She made me laugh a lot that day.

So did her parents.

They bought me a yummy dinner and dessert after the adventure.

Mmmm.... Olive Garden.

The next day, Squirt told me they had a present for me.

I love surprise presents.

Squirt knows me very well.

She got me some of my most favorite things.

I loved the present!

I'm a lucky girl to have such an awesome friend.

I love Squirt!!!!

Cute lady

2010-08-01T21:49:00.002-06:00

After church today I was standing in the hall talking with a friend, when a cute lady in my ward walked past us. I absolutely adore this lady. She is such a total sweetheart and ya just can't help but smile when she's around. Anyway, as she walked past, she gave me a compliment that totally made my day. One that I will never forget. And I quote... "Jodi, does anyone ever tell you that your crowning glory is your hair?" I smiled, and said... "No, but I wish they did!" I was beaming by this point. She then went on to say... "And those green eyes...I just love them!" "Awww, thank you Candy!" Now, this might seem silly to you... but to me, it was awesome! Mostly because she's just so stinkin' cute. And because I know she was sincere. There's just something about a sincere compliment that makes me melt. It also makes me want to be more like her. She's always smiling and happy and saying great things. I'm going to make it my goal to be more complimentary to people. Sincerely complimentary. I hope that someday I can make someone smile like she made me smile. Thank you again, Candy. You're a doll!!

Wandering Mind

2010-07-20T09:07:00.002-06:00

Yesterday at work, I had a realization.

That realization is this:

I spend lots of time thinking...daydreaming...remembering...interpreting...etc

I don't think my brain ever takes a break.

Sometimes it's exhausting.

Other times it's rather enlightening.

I've learned quite a few things about myself.

I think I've also learned things about the people in my life.

After this realization, I had another.

I should use these thoughts and transfer some of them into blogs.

Steller idea, yes?

I think so.

So be it.

BARF - February

2009-09-14T23:24:00.003-06:00

Yes...BARF. That's how I feel about the month of February. It's no secret that I'm not, nor have I ever been, a fan of February and it's main holiday...Valentine's Day. *insert gagging sound here* It could have something to do with all the lovey-dovey PDA I have to see. Or it could have to do with the fact that growing up, I somehow always ended up violently ill on V-day. Yes, I remember at least 3 years where I was cursed with the Stomach Flu. So maybe my hatred of V-day has to do with those haunting memories. Meh...anywhen...

Saturday February 14th -- Valentine's Day

This Valentine's Day was actually pretty good. Skoot came up to hang out...and made cookies. Cookies means cookie dough. Cookie dough means a happy Jodi. I just can't get enough of it! It's sooo tasty!! So after the cookie-making, my awesome big brudder helped me build a bookshelf for my room. Now, I'm fully capable of building it myself...but for some reason I felt the need to ask him to help me. Maybe so he could have something to blog about. BAHAHAHA. Kidding, of course...a lil' bit. Anyway, there was also some game playing and puzzle making with the Old Man and the munchkins. Always a good time. I personally love doing puzzles. They can be so addicting! My Mom and I found some super cute Disney ones at Kmart...that we then ended up spending days on. Don't be jealous.

Welp, that's about it for February. haha. See...not too much fun happening in BARF month.

January...the BEST month!!

2009-06-07T21:38:00.007-06:00

True story...January is the best month of them all!! Why?! Well...because that's my birthday month...of course!! And it's also my nephew's birthday too! Lucky us!! Funny enough...the only 2 events I have to talk about are our bday celebrations. That's really all January is good for. hehe.

Friday January 9th -- Fat Cat's for Taylor's Birthday

This year for his birthday, Taylor chose to go to Fat Cat's. It's always a good time being with my family...even more so when bowling, pizza, and arcade games are involved. I absolutely love going anywhere with arcade games, cuz the whole family gets involved. That's right...even Mommacita plays. I collected quite a few tickets this time and just had to get the bright green stuffed monkey for my car. Oh and we had quite the surprise towards the end of our bowling adventure...we looked to our left and Big Budah from Fox 13 News was getting settled in! He's one of my faves!! So of course we had to get a pic with him...he's such a cool guy!

Friday January 30th -- Mandarin for MY Birthday

Lemme start off by saying how much I love my Mother...She is the best!! I woke up on this birthday to the smell of cupcakes!! Yeah...that's right...cupcakes! My wonderful Mother knew how much I loved them and woke up early to get them started. Talk about a walk up call! Fabulous!! She also gave me the awesomest present ever...a huge box of FunDips!! And not the lame lil' single ones...the ones with 3 different flavors!! Radness!! Now onto the evening...usually for my birthday meal I choose one of two places...Robintino's or Olive Garden. Well this year I decided to mix it up a lil' and go with some Chinese food...Mandarin, to be exact. I decided I wanted to just chill at the house, so we ordered take out. Everyone looked at the menu and we ordered a wide variety of items. And I gotta say...every single thing was scrumptious!! I went back for seconds and thirds. I was stuffed!! Then came time for playing games...all I remember playing was Disney Scene It...a personal fave. After the food had settled in our full tummies, the cupcakes were brought out...with 2 candles. I'm still not sure why there were only 2...my Mom is silly sometimes. Anyway, I really enjoyed my birthday this year. It was great having the family together on the special day. And I loved just relaxing and having "me" time. I can't wait 'til next year!! I better get the countdown paper chain started. Bahahahaha.

This is My December...

2009-05-15T20:57:00.012-06:00

I know what you're prolly thinking..."She's going all the way back to December?! Geez laweez woman!!" But I just had to! December is one of my favorite months. There are always plenty of family gatherings, and of course there is Christmas...with the Christmas spirit, lights and SNOW!! So yeah, here are the highlights of Jodi's December 2008.

Saturday December 6th -- Ryan Shupe Concert with Skooteroo.

Skoot and I absolutely LOVE going to Ryan Shupe's concerts! His band is so much fun to watch and they are incredibly talented! My favorite part of this show was when all 5 band members played the bass together. I was blown away!! It was definitely one of the best Christmas concerts I've ever been to. And I hope they do it again this year. Oh and we also hit up the Twilight movie later in the evening. Skoot is such a trooper! He had already seen it and was completely exhausted, but humored his baby sister by going. I greatly appreciated that cuz I had wanted to see it, but didn't have anyone to go with. Don't ask my opinion about it though...mostly cuz I just laugh thinking about it.

Wednesday December 10th -- Kurt Bestor Christmas with the fam.

This concert is a long time Miller family tradition...with only a few years that we went to a different event instead. This year we decided to return to the show. For the most part, it was just what I had remembered. Kurt is a very talented man and every time I hear his music it makes me want to get back into piano playing. I, unfortunately, was a bit disappointed by his show this time. He did a different version of Prayer of the Children...I prefer when it's just him with the keyboard. And as Skoot mentioned, The Night Before Christmas story wasn't nearly as entertaining as it usually is...but Skoot and I did have fun acting it out in our seats. I still think we should have sent emails and letters about it. :o)

Thursday December 11th -- Chuck and Haley's Temple Sealing.

Oh man...what an exciting day for Chuck and Haley! (And Kannon too!) This was such a fun day filled with family, tears, pictures and cake! I had the wonderful opportunity of watching my cousin Ryan's baby, Lincoln, during the Sealing. Whatta freakin' cute and angelic lil' baby!! He was such a good boy the entire time. I just loved holding him and watching his different facial expressions! After all the picture-taking, they had a yummy luncheon at the JSMB where each table had its own triple chocolate cake...made by Haley's sister, Taryn. Props to her because it was DELICIOUS!!! I dug in as soon as I sat down. Hey...the note at the table said I could, so don't judge me! :oP On a serious note, we have truly been blessed to have Haley and Kannon enter our lives. They are amazing and so much fun to be around! They fit in just perfectly with our quirky family. And I'm so so so excited for lil' Charlotte to join us too!

Saturday December 20th -- Miller Family Christmas Party.

Something I really love about my family - immediate and extended - is that we get together often. My dad's side of the fam has some regular gatherings, one being just before Christmas. We all get together at my fam's church building and eat ridiculously good food, play some sort of White Elephant game, and even Santa stops by for a visit! 2 popular foods you'll find at a Miller gathering are blonde brownies and potato salad. Funny thing about these is...I was never a fan until recently...now I'm hooked! (I'm sure my Gramma is up in heaven...laughing and saying "I told you so!".) I love sneaking blonde brownies when no one is looking..and saving some for later, of course. And I always make sure I'm one of the first to get to the potato salad...since it usually has deviled eggs on top...YUMMERS!!! The Santa part of this gathering is definitely something you don't wanna miss! Skoot has typically been the one to play this role, but due to the ridiculous amount of smart children we have in this family, he has been found out! (Thanks Rachel May for calling him out on it last year in front of everyone! haha.) So this year, we decided to mix it up and have Chuck take over...since he's got the big belly now. :o) It was great to see the looks of complete surprise when Santa was already there, and then Skoot came walking in. Totally threw everyone off...until Chuck giggled his Chuck giggle...then all the adults knew! The kids are so fun to watch...there are those who are completely excited to sit on Santa's lap, and of course there are those who are horrified! They make me laugh most! I also love watching all the kids check out each others gifts and run off to play with them as soon as their parents give the O-K. Man oh man, I just love sitting back and watching my fam during these parties. We definitely are the greatest fam there is! And I mean that in the most humble way possible... ;o)

Wednesday December 24th -- Christmas Eve dinner with the Clayville's.

Another awesome tradition we participate in is dinner on Christmas Eve at Aunt Paula's and Uncle Rodney's. This gathering is with my Mom's side of the family. Even though Aunt Paula passed away last year after battling cancer, the tradition continued. I'm SO glad it did! I love seeing everyone from this side of the family, and of course the food is great too! (Us Millers sure know how to eat!) The meal consists of ham and scalloped potatoes...which just so happens to be one of my absolute favorite meals of all time! Also included on the table are rolls, Skoot's green salad and olives. Yes...lil' bowls full of olives...that I love to snack on before the meal. Missing from the snack plate this year was Uncle Rod's delicious fudge...I sure hope he brings it back! After dinner, there is usually some high quality entertainment from the munchkins...either goofing off or showing us their talents. Then we have the reading of Luke 2...which is usually done by Jimbo, but Skoot had the honor this year. It's such a laid back gathering, but that's what I love most about it. It's just family...sitting and talking and reminiscing about old times. Gotta love it! Thanks to Aunt Paula for always insisting that we be there. And thanks to Uncle Rod for taking over.

Thursday December 25th -- Christmas Day with the fam.

Ahhhh...Christmas morning...love love LOVE it!! I still get as giddy and excited now as I did when I was little! And it's not even about the presents...I just get excited about seeing my family, and eating Gruffins, and definitely thinking about Christ and the many ways that he has affected my life. Wow! I'll have to get into all that another time...cuz there is just way too much to say. Christmas morning this last year was pretty mellow...considering it was just me, Skoot and my parents. The rest of the fam came out later in the day. It was kinda nice to just have a few of us, opening our few presents. I thought the presents were particularly awesome this year! I think we all did a good job at getting things that meant the most to people...I feel like we put more thought into it than usual. But maybe that's just my view. I absolutely LOVED the presents I got! My family is so great!! Skoot gave me a purse...that I actually picked out and got for myself and gave him credit for. haha. My parents gave me this hilarious singing monkey thing! I'll see if I can get a video posted of it sometime. Oh man...it still cracks me up to this day! And my mom is so silly...she got me an entire bag of Reese's trees...I'm addicted to those things! Chuck, Haley and Kannon gave me 2 of my favorite Dr. Suess books...Horton Hears a Who and Because a Little Bug went Ka-choo!. Both of which, Kannon made me read to him numerous times later in the day. Jared, Mickey and the kids gave me a lil' vacuum for my car...cuz they know how OCD I am about cleaning it. I think my favorite part of the day is when my super fantastic mother makes Gruffins. They are these delicious muffins that we dip in butter and cover with cinnamon sugar. Mmmm....makes my mouth water just thinkin' about 'em!! The rest of the day is spent just relaxing, talking, playing some Mario Kart on N64 and napping. Have I mentioned how much I love being around my family?! They are the bestest!!

Alright...there you have it. The highlights of my December adventures. If you thought that was a lot...wait until I get completely caught up with all the fun my family has been having! haha. Brace yourselves.

Obviously...

2009-05-15T20:43:00.004-06:00

I'm not the greatest blogger in the world. Yeah...who couldn't tell, right?! I blame it on my lack of things to talk about. Most people have significant others, children or fun social-life things to blab about. I, however, am the most boring person in the entire world. No...really. But I'm going to try to be better, I promise. But as for now, I'm going to cheat. I've done some pretty fun things the last few months with the famn damily that I want to share with y'all. However, I don't have the energy (or memory) to write about them completely. But my brudder Skoot is awesome about blogging about our family adventures, so I'm gonna go ahead and post the links to his blog so you can catch up with my life there. And in true Jodi fashion, I'll add my commentary. :o)

Go shorty...

2009-01-30T12:17:00.004-07:00

It's MY birthday!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!

If you read my last post, you know how much I LOVE my birthday!! I'm SO giddy right now, it's not even funny!! I don't know what it is...maybe it's cuz I have this entire day to celebrate the awesomeness that is ME! :o)

But yeah, the fun and festivities will be happening later this evening, so I'll try to get some pics taken and then posted. Won't that be amazing?! haha.

That's really all I have to say for now! Just wanted to spread the excitement!! Make sure y'all get out and do something fun to celebrate the day!! In fact...forget about work and chores and all that...just relax!! You have my permission! :o)

My favorite things...

2008-12-17T21:50:00.017-07:00

Lately I've been doing some thinking about those things in my life that make me happy. There are many things that have come to mind...some obvious and predictable, others maybe a lil' off the wall. The following is a list of those things that bring me joy...it will be added to often...so keep an eye out...

the smell of freshly laundered clothes
the way it looks outside after a huge snow storm, when everything is white...GORGEOUS!
sammiches...preferably of the crunchy peanut butter and homemade strawberry jam variety
eating the dough when I make my chocolate chip cookies
pajammers...of all kinds (I'd wear them 24/7 if it were socially acceptable)
the feel of the inside of a new sweatshirt...so soft
watching my favorite movies...whilst quoting and/or singing along...although it may be obnoxious to those nearby
using movie/tv show quotes in daily conversations and possibly pretending that I was clever enough to think of them on my own
when a song with special meaning comes on the radio
smiling at someone who looks down...and watching their face light up in response
the way a baby's skin smells
a lil' kid's laughter...I can't help but laugh along with them
the soft feeling of my arms and legs after I've shaved them
christmas lights
a phone call from someone I haven't heard from in a while
when people call me "Jodes"
yellow roses
cold chocolate milk...viva please!
hearing "Jodi, you're always right!"
monkeys and random monkey stuff...slippers, pajammers, pictures, stuffed animals, valentines, figurines, keychains, etc. (FYI: These are all items that I have in my collection)
dancing in my car...and singing very loudly...very off key
my momma's chocolate birthday cake
"gruffins"
hugs from christian
giggling til I can't breathe...aka "late night giggles" (these don't only occur late at night...)
the smell of my shampoo
concerts...really good, really entertaining ones
post teeth-brushing feeling
new car smell
the tingly feeling of my fave chapstick
how soft my hair feels after its been straightened
random text messages
opening presents...more so the opening part...I don't particularly care whats inside
chocolate lasagna from the og...may it rest in peace
slippers
jeans that are comfortable AND make my butt look good
cuddling up under a warm blanket
watching matthew kevin ransom attempt to play the drums on rock band...especially with beats like red, red, red, yellow-red
those emoticon/avatar things that seem to be perfect for me
watching my cute dog, jessi, when she's sleeping...she's so silly!
hershey's symphony bar...creamy milk chocolate, almonds and toffee chips
my birthday...and having a countdown which starts months before

I've caved...

2008-08-16T15:50:00.001-06:00

Alright...so I've given in. Everyone else has a blog and I was beginning to feel left out! Unfortunately, my life isn't all that exciting considering all I really do is work. But I'll try to think of some great stuff to ramble about! I know how much some of you LOVE my random stories. ;o)

Be patient with me while I figure this all out. Let's get the party started...

Loveyoubye!