My Normal Life

The Great Awakening

2012-02-27T18:40:00.001-07:00

As I was writing about a great awakening I had, I could hear a person in my ward talk about why they didn't like certain places to move or take certain jobs.

Yeah I creeped on someone's conversation but only briefly!

Intermission - I was originally going to post about recommitting to previous goals I had set up, but then heard this.

As I continued to listen to their conversation, without revealing too much, I had my second great awakening.

The term Great Awakening is used, to refer to a period of religious revival in American religious history. I use it a little more loosely then that to mean an epiphany. The reason I call it a great awakening though is because that was the exact phrase someone used in sacrament meeting yesterday.

So what were these great awakenings?

I need to focus on others again. When you are in the service of your fellow beings you are only in the service of your God; and putting Him first never yields anything but positives. Yeah it might take some time to see anything come of it, if at all in this life but you must have faith that it will.
Be happy with what you've been given! The grass might be greener on the other side, but now you have to deal with the scent of cow manure due to fertilizing it.

The point is, no matter what life you've been given you can always find something wrong with it! The illustration that comes to mind is the picture of the pretty young lady and the old witch.

Looking at it one way could only yield what's wrong with life, but it's the moment you look at it the right way that you see the great things that are actually happening.

I went home teaching the other day, (for those of you who aren't of the LDS faith home teaching is where two elders or brethren who hold the priesthood visit other members of the LDS church and teach and fellowship them,) and challenged myself as well as those we home taught to look each day for one blessing in their lives. As they do this their perspective would change.

The principle behind this is seeing the positives of life. The more you focus on those, the more the negatives don't seem so negative!

I challenge you all to do the same. Look through each day and not only see the positives but thank God for them as well.

Five Easy Steps to Start Dating!

2012-02-23T16:18:00.002-07:00

Last night after blind date 88 I came home feeling pretty good about it. So much so that I actually of my own free will and choice had decided to ask her out again.

You see the last several dates have all been blind. (It seems they have to be to want to go on a date with me.) Okay so not physically blind but all were set up for me. I decided a while ago that the sport (dating) is one I don't care to play, but to keep people off my back about not dating I go every time people try and set me up.

Turns out I go on more dates now then right before I made the decision, not sure how that happened but it did.

This is why actually deciding to go out by my own choice was a big step. The awesome thing that happened though started when I was in the living room with a roommate and his girlfriend. (seeing as I only have one roommate with a girlfriend that should give it away) They asked me if there was going to be a second. I hadn't fully considered that until they had asked. I'll continue the brief story but that's when the topic of today's post came up. I decided to text her to see if she would even be interested in going on a second date. That's when she informed me she was dating someone. Just as I started to feel like dating wasn't so bad. (Not sure where that feeling came from if you know anything about my history with blind dates.)

The conversation continued and we got on the topic of dating. I responded to their inquires as follows: "I don't even know what to do anymore when it comes to dating. It has been way too long." This is only a partial truth as you will come to find out. I have developed 5 easy steps to start dating.

For Guys:

Step 1: Go on a date
Step 2: Go on more dates
Step 3: Hug, Hold Hands, Kiss
Step 4: DTR - Define the Relationship
Step 5: Make it official..."Facebook Official"

For Girls:

Step 1: Say yes
Step 2: Say yes a few more times
Step 3: Hold him a little longer on the hug, put your hand out so he knows you are ready, and bat your eyes or give him the look!
Step 4: DTR - Don't Turn down Request or Don'T Run...take your pick
Step 5: Confirm Facebook relationship status.

All joking aside, the only things that makes this process difficult is communication, attraction...and step 2 when it comes to me.

Find someone you are attracted to, put yourself out on a limb, and if the limb so happens to break and you fall and crack your skull open don't take it personal. The person didn't really reject you just your appearance because they don't know you. That should make you feel better right?

Wrong! This is the best way to go about doing it though. It's not cool being shot down, but if you don't try you don't do and if you don't do why are you here!

The Facebook Status!

2012-02-22T16:15:00.004-07:00

The last week has produced a ton of serious posts. I apologize, and am writing this post to hopefully bring a smile to your face. I would say make you laugh so hard that your stomach hurts and you may or may not pee a little, but it's pretty difficult to be that funny in a simple blog post. (Oh and btw please don't share in one of your Facebook statuses that you peed because you read something see section 3 below)

The last little while this topic has been on my mind. It is more serious then I thought it would originally be but none the less hopefully be funny.

THE FACEBOOK STATUS

The Facebook status update is an interesting thing. It's become common place for Engagement announcements, coming out parties, and a ton of other random sometimes slightly inappropriate messages to the world.

Happy Birthday:
These revealing status updates aren't always thought out, nor are the comments left on the status updates. I wanted to try a social experiment, to change my birthday every three months to see how many birthday wishes I would receive on each of them. More often then not people see the birthday (now on the top left corner of their page) and type some wonderfully thought out message of: "Happy Birthday." Some go as far as adding the person's name, or add and "!" to the end of it. Crazy I know!! (I just added 2 "!" which means...not really sure. Extra excitement when you read it?)

Now that I put this post up one of three things will probably happen:

No one will put anything on my wall for fear of being judged
Everyone will add in my name or some actually thought out message.
Or because few people actually follow this blog....Nothing!!! :)

We're Engaged:
This is probably become one of my favorites to make fun of...the engagement post! As some of you know I recently took engagement...photo, and posted it on my Facebook page. For those who can read I put:

"Engagement photo...we matched at ward prayer. Apparently that's all it takes to take engagement photos :)"

I received a few congratulations from what I would like to call the "Social Stalker" or the non-readers. Those who search through all the notifications and the moment they see birthday or engaged they comment without further investigation. It was funny because I thought the message was fairly clear that it wasn't real, however I still hooked the social stalkers.

The second thing I love about this is the pages and what engaged couples actually put for their statuses

_____ and _____:

are: getting married

tying the knot
getting married for time and all eternity
getting hitched
BFF's
in love <3

's: happily ever after

love story
wedding

Marriage

The Marriage of _____ and _____
You know the...
Best thing since...
Sealed...
The Biggest and best...
I think I wanna Marry you
...Something "Creative" or the simple I want to marry you.

(P.S. Don't judge mine if I ever do get married.)

Mundane:
Like this post is starting to get, I do not give a flying $%*$ %$% *#$% if your shoe is untied, or you are making a Walmart run, or if you just got back from the gym, or if you played basketball that day, or if you are eating a burrito at Beto's, or if you had to do X amount of work at your job for which you were paid. (FML - No, No I will not do that! Nor is work that bad. Billions of people who can't work have it worse off suck it up! $%#$*%)

STD:
Or Should have Thought about Dat - This is an STD of the mouth or keyboard rather. Do not post things out of anger, frustration, hate, dislike, loathing...unadulterated loathing, Passion, or any other emotion which clouds judgement. It is always bad 100% of the time!

Inside Joke:
The funny thing about an inside joke is it's name. Isn't it ironic how more inside jokes are told then regular ones? The inside joke stemmed from a man who publicly joked about King Henry the 8th and his many wives. In reply to the joke they publicly cut off his head...oh well, should have kept it inside! Don't let that happen to you!

Although this is a made up story the origin of the inside joke probably stemmed from something like this, and if it didn't I will keep spreading it anyway. I don't mind inside jokes as long as only shared on occasion. Glad we had that talk.

TMI:
I know most of you have seen at least one of these if not on a daily basis, but note to the writer: a bowl movement, bodily function, intimacy with significant other, admitting to a crime or thing of stupidity, etc should probably stay on the inside. Meaning don't post it for the world to see. If "That is disgusting", or "You shouldn't have shared that", or anything similar could be said about the comment don't share. (Example: Is it bad if all my underwear have streaks that I can't get out?)

I could continue on with this but I won't. The purpose of this post is to hopefully get us all to think a little next time we post anything! Yes, I have been guilty of stupid posts as well. Not many because I am a superior human being but I do post them to try and fit in with lesser beings. haha j/k What I would like from this is that you comment or share your favorite ridiculous Facebook post ever!

Guest Post - Blind Dating from the Lady's Perspective

2012-02-21T17:22:00.004-07:00

This post is from one of my co-workers. She decided we should swap posts, and seeing as I am a dude and the majority of my followers are girls I thought it might be a good idea to get the view (no not the horrid television show) of a female on the site. I hope you all enjoy!

Hey guys, it's Becca from Good As Gold! Chris and I decided to do a post swap this week to get the opposite sex's opinion on fashion (for my blog) and dating (here on Chris's Normal Life). So, like a breath of fresh air, I am here today to give the girls perspective on blind dating.

I haven't been on a ton of blind dates, but I definitely can remember each experience individually: the nervousness, excitement, and terror that came with it. Each blind date I've been on has gone the same way; awkward introduction, small talk in the car, laughing at embarrassing stories, a very involved activity with very little talking... aaand repeat.

Now, there are a few things I always think of as I'm getting set up on a blind date, or considering going on a blind date.

I consider who the matchmaker (person setting up the date) is:

Is this person a friend, relative, neighbor, or worse...ward member?
What kind of person is the matchmaker dating or married to (what is their taste)?
Is the matchmaker going to set me up with their little brother?
Is he going to be blonde or brunette?
Tall or short?
Athletic or artistic?

. . . Etc. Etc. Etc. My list always goes on and on, and usually this mental panic continues and worsens until the moment I open the door and greet my fate... oops! I meant DATE, face to face.

Really, the person that you get set up with says a lot about what the matchmaker thinks about you. This is true. Period. Luckily I've never been offended by the persons choice.

Matchmakers: Choose carefully, so you don't lose friends.

I also consider whether this is going to be a group date, or if we're going out alone. If it's a group date, I'll go. If it's just me and the blind date, I generally will either ask if I can invite a couple to come with, or will try to weasel my way out of going.

Once I'm on the date, things usually go OK. Usually I'm the more talkative and outgoing of the two, which can be really frustrating (Hint hint, guys, if you're going on a blind date, be FRIENDLY) but I can generally find one way or another to keep myself entertained. This is why I only will go on a blind date with a group.

My only experience going on a blind date without another couple didn't work out so well. We went to dinner and a movie, and I barely got to know the guy. I didn't feel like he was very interested in me and I'm assuming that was because there was too much pressure for both of us. It was very awkward and discouraging. If there would have been other couples around, I would have felt better about being myself, and we probably would have been able to enjoy each other's company.

Experiences in group dates have been a lot better for both me and my date. I feel like I was able to get to know my date much better, and it also helped to have his friends and my friends telling funny stories and memories that we all share or have in common.

To wrap things up, GUYS, you really should remember a few things:

If you are going to agree to a blind date, PLEASE act like you care about what the girl is saying, be friendly, and be a gentleman. I know blind dates take a little more effort and work, they're exhausting, but I promise she's way more exhausted than you are. She's been thinking about your date all day.
Go somewhere social, with social people. Go bowling, have a game night, keep it semi-casual. Don't take her to a movie. That is not social. Don't even take her to a concert. (unless Adele happens to be in town, that would be okay. . .)
Don't kiss her goodnight. I know I didn't mention this previously, I was hoping I wouldn't have to, but I feel like I should. You never know, maybe one of you guys (or maybe even gals) need this advice.

These 3 general rules should help you avoid blind date disaster, and hopefully will help you get to your ultimate destination of a second date.

Make sure to head over to my blog, Good As Gold, to read Chris's post on Fashion Do's and Dont's from a mans perspective.

xo, B - Good As Gold

Guys click here for more tips on blind dates!

Finding Incredible: What Cancer—and Trials—Can Teach Us

2012-02-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

I am a dude and this made me tear up.

Our Divine Destiny and Role As Men and Women

2012-02-17T17:55:00.002-07:00

There has been too many comments this week about this subject, that I have no choice but to write about it. I figure I am probably going to take a lot of heat for it, but I am starting to consider myself a relaxed closet journalist. Apparently this is what they do.

This morning as I was talking to my roommate, he mentioned a post on Facebook where he expressed a little frustration about a crazy girl who comes into his work. He said:

"I've decide that most girls under the age of 23 and are not married or mothers are most possibly psychopaths. take it or leave it."

Although I don't agree with this statement, it triggered some interesting comments. One of which touches exactly on the topic of the day.

"Is there something wrong with a girl making herself and her goals her priority over getting married and having children? Surely doing those things are great, if they're for you. But what about those of us who want to see the world, meet new people, discover ourselves, change who we are, go back to who we were and forth again, and Heaven forbid DATE for a while? You can't put a general age on when someone should be married. For some, that doesn't come til later. Not because they're a last resort for some else, but because they had other things to do. I like change. I'm not a psychopath, I'm independent."

I do agree with some of this, and you may think me a chauvinistic pig, but not all of it. I will place a portion of my reply below then build upon it. Before you get angry and judge, please think about what I am about to cover with an open mind.

No not all are crazy, but there IS something wrong with a girl putting her goals over marriage...just like there is something wrong with a guy doing the same.

Think I'm wrong? Talk to the Creator (Father in Heaven) about it...argue it out with him. I'm pretty sure the first two commandments he gave said nothing about pursuing your own goals and travel and all...just saying.

Now I'm not sure why the role of women is trying to change. In the family proclamation it lists the role of the male as the provider and the female as the nurturer, but maybe that is just because God is a chauvinistic pig!

I know I'm tired of being called one for defending what God is trying to do here. Those who think that way obviously don't understand the plan of salvation or the atonement!

I've already said to much I will sign off now.

For those of you who don't believe in God, that is your prerogative, but I can tell you he exists just as much as I exist, and you WILL come to know that eventually! Argue all you want that is an unchangeable a fact.

Now what I want to do with the rest of this post is back what I have stated with scripture, but before I do so I will offer my situation on the subject.

To say I quit dating would be an untruth. To say I hate dating and have completely given up on pursuing anyone would be a brutal truth. "How does that make sense?" I still date but only when I am set up, which apparently still allows me my allotted 1 date per week. Am I following what I am about to teach? NO! I know I should be dating and that is why I go when I am set up.

Other than that I let dating die, and then flushed it completely out of my system. "So what you are saying is you are a hypocrite?" Not only am I a hypocrite, but I am openly admitting to it. I am not blaming anyone for reaching this point nor will I with this post. This isn't meant to bash a certain sex or say one is better than the other. Man without the Woman is nothing, just like Woman without the Man is nothing.

God did not create the man with out the woman in mind:

Moses 3:18 - And I, the Lord God, said unto mine Only Begotten, that it was not good that the man should be alone; wherefore, I will make an help meet for him.

It is impossible for the man to have carried out the plan of salvation by himself, nor was it a foreign concept to have a female be one with a male. A male alone is not whole. Beside Heavenly Father there is a Heavenly Mother! Without her we would not have been created. I will not delve further into that here.

We have covered the fact that man and woman together are one. If you are still not convinced read the first two paragraphs of the The Family: A Proclamation to the World. This is a revelation to a living prophet from God.

Next point I want to discuss on this topic is the commandments he gave to Adam and Eve or to the entire human race through them.

Moses 2:28 And I, God, blessed them, and said unto them: Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.

Moses 3:16 - 17 And I, the Lord God, commanded the man, saying: Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat, But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it, nevertheless, thou mayest choose for thyself, for it is given unto thee; but, remember that I forbid it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.

Those were the commandments given in the Garden of Eden. Then he said to Eve:

Moses 4:22 - "thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee."

He said the same to Adam, cleave unto your wife. Our goals or individuality are not being placed on a back burner or being shelved to be a Mom or Dad. Rather they are being redefined in a role that is more important than any other role you will ever hold in this life no matter who you are!

Look at any Mormon message, they say I am a this, that, and the other as well as a Mom or Dad and Mormon!

There should be no other goal higher then that of being a parent and making it back to live with God. Sure he has asked us to improve our talents, but that is only to serve others. That is our purpose in life! Not travel the world and do all the things we want to do. That is ridiculously selfish and as far from Christ-like as possible!

Also more fathers are becoming stay at home Dads. Unless circumstances make it difficult or impossible for the Husband to be the provider, he should be the one to step into that role. This is from the Family Proclamation:

"By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children."

I will end there and step down from my soap box now. I would appreciate your comments. Please voice your opinion and ask any questions you desire.

I Can Do Anything with Fortune Cookie Messages!

2012-02-16T17:09:00.001-07:00

Today I moved desks, and had to rearrange all my personal effects. After about 20 minutes of shoving push pins into what felt like a metal wall my thumbs started to hurt. I stopped and looked through the rest of my items and came across a ton of fortune cookie messages.

For the longest time I have collected my fortune cookie messages to see if they come true. The majority of them are generalizations like horoscopes would be:

"You are a human and will fall in love with something or someone in the near or distant future. Look out for people in masks carrying large samurai swords and high heels. The samurai sword and high heels may or may not be figurative as well as the part about you being human. Success will come your way in the shape of one of your desires/passions. Lucky numbers 15 - 3 - 22 - 33 - 2"

Maybe I am a little weird but I still take the fortune cookie messages I receive as semi-revelations. What do I mean by this? I try and apply or look for greater messages from the words on the tiny piece of paper made strangely enough in Indonesia. Back to the point...here are a few of the messages I received.

Fortune Cookies Messages:

You never know who you touch.
You are gifted in many ways.
Your happiness is intertwined with your outlook on life.
You will soon get something special because of your charm.
Change is not merely necessary to life. It is life.
A smooth long journey! Great expectations!
Watch for a stranger to soon become a friend.
Absence, makes the heart grow fonder, makes the pay check go lighter
Your planning will bring rich rewards.
Your nurturing instincts will expand to include many people.
Adjust finances - make budgets, to improve your financial standing.
You are often unaware of the effect you have on others.
You will be showered with good luck before your next birthday.
You will step on the soil of many countries.
Success will come to your plans. Are politics in your future?
Today is an ideal time to water your personal garden.
Your genuine talents will lead you to success.
People who are late are often happier than those who have to wait for them.

Now I know what most of you are probably thinking or doing...adding "in bed" to the end of each of these fortune cookie messages. No! From these messages I can deduce that I am a talented kind traveler who will eventually be a successful businessman politician maybe even before my next birthday!

Okay, so not really but a few of them do come true. The point of the entire post is this: People are so busy looking for signs or others to tell them what they are capable of, that they let it block their true potential!

You are a Son/Daughter of God, who has been blessed with a brilliant mind and incredible body. (No I wasn't hitting on you) Your possibilities are endless, and the only thing keeping most people from it is their vision, execution, and motivation.

One of my favorite commercials of all time is:

Although he doesn't win the race, and the sandwich didn't last very long the point I took from it was "Yes I Can!"

Just have a positive mental attitude. Don't limit yourself and never say you can't do something. Think about it!

Valentine's Day Ideas and The Ghosts of Valentine's Days Past, Present, and Future!

2012-02-14T08:55:00.006-07:00

VALENTINE'S DAY IDEAS ARE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE POST

I was asked to write a guest post for another blog, but I liked the post so much I kept it for my own blog...sorry other blog!

Valentine's Day not one of my favorite days, mainly because of the cold that usually accompanies it in more ways than one. I actually petitioned to get the named changed to:

"Another Excuse for Me to Buy You Stuff That You Don't Really Need Like Teddy Bears and Chocolate, No I'm Not Saying You're Fat, You Can Eat Chocolate If You Want, I Was Mainly Emphasizing The Point of The Useless Holiday, No Our Love Isn't Useless I'm Just Saying I Don't Need A Holiday To Show Uhh I Give Up Here Are Chocolates And A Teddy Bear Day!"

Sadly enough they denied it because it was too hard to put on a card. Last night as I laid down to go to sleep a strange thing happened. I was visited by three ghosts. The first was a younger guy dressed a lot like myself and seemed completely enthused.

He introduced himself as the Ghost of Valentine's Days Past. I laughed at him and he didn't look too happy. "I am here to help you, but if you are going to make fun then I am gone!" He said to me while sitting on the edge of my bed. Then proceeded to tell me what he was about to show me. He told me we were going to visit my past celebrations of Valentine's Day.

After about 2 minutes of seeing Valentine's Days past I saw a bunch of complete strangers and asked the spirit; "Who are these people?" He replied "Sorry, you only celebrated this day twice and we had to fill the entire night with something so this is actually Randy and Sarah Jacoby. They are actually pretty funny, you should get to know them."

Time passed and I found myself back in my bed. There was a knock at my bedroom door and I pushed the blanket off to see who was there. "Excuse me, but can I use your bathroom?" "Uhh yeah..." The stylish guy in his mid 20's brushed passed me and entered my bathroom. After a few minutes he flushed and opened the door. "Dude that's gross wash your hands." I said to him.

After he finished he introduced himself as the Ghost of Valentine's Days Present. He told me to put on a jacket and snow boots, then took me to the top of Mt. Timp. We sat there looking out over the sleeping city and admired how peaceful it was. I broke the silence with "So are you going to show me something or are we just going to sit here?" "Honestly, You have nothing going on so we were just going to sit here." Well at least he is truthful I thought to myself.

A little more time passed and a cougar spotted us and started to walk towards us. I turned to him and asked; "Is this supposed to represent an older woman?" "NO, that's just unfortunate he can see you." And with that he disappeared. I looked around me and saw the only way to get away from it. It was a piece of scrap metal that had fallen off a near by tower. I jumped on it and started down the hill. (BEFORE I CONTINUE PLEASE KNOW THAT THESE EVENTS AREN'T REAL.) I hit a jump and somehow ended back up in my bed.

Realizing where I was and getting my wits about me I heard the TV on in the living room and went out to investigate.On our beanbag chair was an incredibly fit older guy sitting eating popcorn and watching previews for movies. I stared at him sort of puzzled but expected who he was. A few moments passed and he looked up at me. "Are you just going to stand there, take a seat!"

I sat down on the couch next to him so I could share some of the popcorn that I had just purchased in preparation for the following day of sitting alone movie watching. The previews ended and the movie Hitch started. "Nice, this is one of my favorite chick flicks." "I know." "Is what happens in the movie supposed to be how my future turns out?" "No, but it's more exciting then your future so shut up and watch."

A bit annoyed I sat down and watched. I must admit the movie was a needed boost to the nights events. When it was over I turned to the Ghost of Valentine's Days Future and said; "Ghost of Valentine's Days Future, can you at least show me who I will end up with?" "My names Chris, and no. Did you learn anything from this nights events?" "Not really." "Well, you were supposed to learn that..." He trailed off and fell asleep, and with that he disappeared. At that very moment my alarm clock went off. It was 6:30, time to get up and get ready for work. This is going to be the best Valentine's day ever.

(When I got to work I was told I needed to learn something from this situation. I learned that I don't want to turn out like any of the ghosts:)

Again I'm not the biggest fan of the day seeing as I've only been able to celebrate it twice in my life; but for those of you trying to think of a last minute idea or plan ahead for next year here are some Valentines Day gift ideas for you to consider:

Inexpensive Valentines Day Ideas:

Sentimental - Make a card and put hearts on their door with the reasons they mean so much to you.
Poetry Night - Read poetry. Go to Barnes and Nobles and read for free.
Deja Vu - Scavenger hunt for your history with significant other. Dates, where you met, any significant events etc.
Creative - Origami Flowers and a poem or note about when you first met.
Flashback - Look through baby photos and have a quiet evening.
Classic - Romantic comedy and a pizza.
Dance the Night Away - Go dancing and dress up nice
Imprint - Individualize a gift - T-shirt, mug, or anything else that would potentially mean something.
Bare Essentials - Spend the evening walking and talking just the two of you.
Craft Night - do a puzzle or make something together.

Romantic Valentines Day Ideas:

The Adventurer - Do a snow shoe picnic. Rent or borrow snow shoes and pack your backpack with stuff you both like to eat.
The Revelator - Buy roses and do a rose petal path from gift to gift. Inside the gifts will be parts of your evening. It could be the ingredients to your dinner or plans for the evening or the amount of gifts for anniversaries you've had.
The Conventionalist - Make a mix cd and have a candle light dinner
The Scientist - Go to a planetarium, because what is more romantic then gazing out at the stars with the person you care for most.
The Zen Master - Spend a day at the Spa together
The Chef - Pick out or buy a cookbook look through it and make a few course meal. Go to the store buy the things for it and spend the evening cooking and eating.
The Artist - Finger paint, or do some other type of craft. I say finger paint because it's really fun and potentially flirtatious.
The Magician - Blindfold your date, and take them to their favorite restaurant.
The Writer - Leave notes for them everywhere they go to let them know how much you care.
The Disciple - Plan an evening or day of 10 things they like to do.

I obviously am not going to use these, so I didn't want the ideas to go to waste. I hope the prove fruitful for you! Happy Valentine's Day from Me and all the Ghosts Past, Present, and Future. I think we are going bowling tonight!

Friendinitis - A Deadly Epidemic!

2012-02-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

I have been looking through my drafts as of late because I had a lot of them. I just posted from the drafts and figured I could post another from them. This one was from a while ago and was a disease that was spreading through a few of my friends and I.

Like an epidemic everything we touched would just make the disease worse until finally it had completely consumed me.

What was this crazy disease that was spreading so horribly?

Friendinitis - it is a fairly common disease among the agreeable guys or those with NGS. (see: synonyms of agreeable) It is characterized by one who is placed in the friend zone with everyone before he even receives a chance to pursue a courtship with a female that has caught his eye.

Friendinitis is serious and spreading to people everywhere. Below I have outlined the disease to help you to not only avoid this disease but, prevent, treat and diagnose it.

Symptoms:
Friendinitis involves long chats about relationships, advice on life, and being called when needed. Some of the most common symptoms are:

They talk about other people they are interested in or ask for advice
They hug you or are too comfortable with you around
You are naturally a nice guy/girl
If you invite them to something and they go if they have nothing else going on
They reveal a lot of personal information about themselves
They don't care what they look like around you
They flirt with you differently then others
They try and set you up with someone else

Symptoms are not limited to these, but if you do see these signs please see a doctor immediately!

Causes:
A number of things can cause or worsen Friendinitis. In many cases, an exact cause is never found but can be narrowed down to a few things.

Common Causes:

Being too available
Tendency to fall for someone quickly
Nice Guy/Girl Syndrome or NGS
Fear of rejection or making a move
Becoming quick friends or having too much in common
Talking

Other Causes of Friendinitis:

The planets weren't aligned properly
You have a great personality
Or you are me

Risk factors:
(See Causes of Friendinitis)

Complications:
Friendinitis can significantly affect the quality of life. Although it affects people differently, if you have Friendinitis, you also may experience:
Depression
Stress
NGS
Fatigue

Sleeping problems
Trouble concentrating
Anxiety and irritability
In rare cases it may even cause death, and treating these linked conditions may not affect Friendinitis directly, but it can help you feel better. If that doesn't work go eat ice cream order a pizza and watch an action movie.

Treatments/Cures and Alternative Medicines:
There are many treatments and cures for Friendinitis, a few of which we will touch on here.

Break the nice guy or sweet girl stereotype
Break the touch barrier
Create jealousy by replacing the time you spent with them with someone else
Flirt more heavily
Tell them you like them
Make a move

If you aren't willing or capable of trying any of these then move on and give up!

Coping and support:
Good luck with that. My best prescription is time and replace them with someone else or something else. Don't gratify even thinking about them. Seem harsh? Well if you are the one suffering from Friendinitis you would understand. Consult a good friend of the same sex and have venting session with all your favorite foods, movies, games, etc.

If you or a friend are suffering from Friendinitis please contact a specialist immediately!

The World's View on Dating and Courtship - Part 2

2012-02-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my drafts from my blog and came across this post. I wrote it back on the 28th of November, but it is still applicable today. For those of you who haven't read the email which sparked this post click here: The World's View on Dating and Courtship. I wanted to continue the subject of the world's view on dating and courtship, with a list of other things the world sees as the "NEW NORM", and break it up into sections of stuff I think has become ridiculous. Oh and although I gave up on dating I some how got two dates set for this weekend. yay! dating is fun (in the most monotone voice imaginable...even worse then the clear eyes guy.)

PREDATE:

Asking - Asking a girl out on a date has almost become extinct. It still happens, but not near as much as it should. And asking through text or something has made it even more trivial then it was before. I will admit I have fallen to this as well, mainly because the feat of actually asking out a girl has come to mean something. To me it just means date...nothing more. For others maybe it does, but the oasis of dating in me has become a desert.
Hanging out - This is the dates new replacement. It was once said to me; "You know your problem? You go on too many dates. Girls get freaked out and friend zone you. Just hang out and if it happens it happens." The "it" referred to in that sentence was making out. Another thing that has become lax instead of actually meaning anything, it's like the new greeting.
Boy: Did it hurt?
Girl: It actually did.
Boy: You ruined my pickup line, wanna make out?
Girl: Sure.
It shouldn't work that way...ever, but I have heard it happening!

Time in which one should ask - I used to be of the opinion that a week in advance was good timing, and I am theoretically still of that opinion, but most have become spontaneous which is partially due to the above mentioned asking problem.
The 1st date shut down - The only reason I can thing of for this happening should be if the guy is creepy or seems as if you would be potentially in danger or taken advantage of. Other than that this should never happen. "But I don't like him, that's why I said no." How do you know? dating is a completely different setting and if you have never been on a date with the person you have no way of knowing.
Planning and spontaneity - Spontaneity is good, but the entire date shouldn't be spontaneous. Some things should be planned out even if you plan on flipping a coin to get to a restaurant you still have the restaurant part planned out. A little spontaneity is always good. Whether the girls admit to it or not it keeps things exciting and fun, so it's a definite must.

DATE:

Proper Date Etiquette - Open her door, pay for the date, drive, and don't only think about trying to get action at the end.
Conversation - Keep it flowing, and do not try and push the envelope. If a guy is or a girl is trying to see where the conversation will lead they are not a person you want to be around if you respect yourself at all.
Checking out your date - Everybody does it. May come as a shocker but it's the truth. It is the amount that matters at this point. If you have your mouth wide open and you are gawking that is bad. I am of the opinion that you want to see if you are attracted but you don't need to let any thoughts formulate or go any further than that! That is when you get in trouble. Let me clarify a bit further, I am not saying you should be checking them up and down making sure the film on your digital photographic memory card is full; but if you happen to check them out on occasion you don't have to go out in sackcloth and ashes in the depths of repentance! Others might disagree but again the key is never linger or let thoughts formulate.

POSTDATE:

The Line - Draw a line you will never cross, and make sure it is etched in your heart. Don't try and get as close to the line as you can either. Don't flirt with it, play hopscotch with it, or do anything else besides drawing it.
- Flirting
- Hugging
- Hand holding
- Cuddling
- Kissing
- Making Out
It should never go beyond this before marriage.
Action on the date - "When is a good time for the first kiss, to hold her hand or whatever?" Good question, when it is right! "Well that is stupid when is it right?" You're stupid. You will know when it is right if you have any sense. I am not saying when you feel it is right because you never want to let your "feelings" lead you anywhere. That link will explain that a little better. You will know when it is right because the other party will be giving you that look or some sign to show you they are ready. Now even though you get that sign, you don't necessarily want to make the move yet. "Why not?" Because how well do you know them, and do you want to base your relationship on the physical side of things or spiritual and emotional? I am not saying if you kiss on the first date your relationship is doomed for failure, but be patient wait a little and your relationship will be stronger. If it goes somewhere, great you have a good foundation on which to continue to build.
Boundaries - Boundaries is not the same as the line. Boundaries covers everything else. Things you will and won't do. Set those in stone, and don't throw them off Mt. Sinai when they are broken and ask for weaker ones. KEEP THEM!!!
The game - If you like them let them know, and keep the games just to the activities you play together on your dates and things. Games other than those are stupid.
Commitment - Don't just date someone for something to do or because you would feel bad telling them no. Either be committed to them or don't be.
Marriage - For some it happens on the first date. Those are also people who are way too wasted to remember it after their Vegas trip. For normal people it takes time so if you are being asked out they are not proposing. Continuing this thought make sure you know the person and are with them long enough to see their true personality. I think it comes out about the third month NO SOONER! You don't have to follow this but the longer you date the greater potential of really finding out who the person you are dating is!
Testing the product and Damaged Goods - I have heard it say, "You have to test the product out, otherwise when you get married and they are boring you are stuck with it."
1. "It" is a person
2. "It" has a name
3. When I get in a car and test drive it I don't lick all the seats and pee on the side of it to claim it as mine. You aren't a dog don't act like one. You can get to know whether they are fun and exciting or not just by dating them.
"Chick" - I hate that name for women. That is all.
Spooning, Forking, Cupping, and Knifing - And any other metaphor with kitchen ware is not good while dating and leads to bad things. If you aren't sure what these are good stay innocent.

You don't have to follow any of these things, but you would be better off if you do!

Life Isn't Fair!

2012-02-06T21:35:00.003-07:00

Life isn't fair, it isn't equal or logical. It picks sides and more often then not it won't be your side it picks.

In simple form it sucks, and seems useless at times. Why would a God who possesses all wisdom and knowledge subject us to such a mediocre place? Why would he allow the stupid things in life to happen to us over and over again?

Why are the things that are supposed to be good, be deemed dorky, boring, or lame and the people who do them "goody two shoes"?

Why does he allow things to be so blasted difficult that all you want to do is give up because you've been pushed so hard?

Why!?

It's been said that after the storm comes the rainbow, but here's a thought; how long is that d@#% storm going to last?

Just like how the weather comes and goes as it pleases so do trials. They last as long as they want and are over almost all at once.

I love storms, I can't say that I love trails. I know they are a necessary evil but I don't set out my welcome mat when they come along. And if I know they are coming the last thing I'd do would be to bake them a cake!

So why are they necessary?

I'll answer that with a question, what good is a storm?

Some may think it's useless but were it not for the storm the rains wouldn't come. Were it not for the rain the plants wouldn't grow. Were it not for the plants we wouldn't be.

So I ask again, why are they necessary?

If we are ever to grow or become like God we need trails. You may be saying why, if I have to go through all this trouble, would I ever want to be like God?

That is not a simple question to answer. Sure you may give the answers "that's what we are supposed to do", or "because he's perfect", but that doesn't begin to touch on the real reason.

"If the people knew what was behind the veil, they would try by every means to [die] that they might get there. But the lord in his wisdom...implanted the fear of death in every person that they might cling to life and thus accomplish the designs of their creator."

That's why we work through our trials. So great are the blessings that will come if we are obedient and endure to the end. Endless joy and growth comes to those who endure in patience and happiness.

"Endure your trials and endure them well, for I am with thee always". If you are feeling down, I can be there also if you need it! God loves you and wants you to be happy and so do I!

Oh It'll Turn Out...AWESOME!

2012-02-04T10:20:00.002-07:00

I've talked about this before but recent events have brought me full circle. Looking back on previous relationships I realized for the most part I was either the dumper or did something to merit being dumped. That's why I may or may not be an undercover tool.

I'm not really because if I don't feel right about something I stop it. That's the only reason I've had for dumping anyone. This is not what the entire post is about but leads into it.

Yesterday I was talking to a friend about her relationship when it was brought up that if two parties can continue to work and communicate "oh it'll turn out fine, but you got to keep your head up".

That song didn't come up in the conversation but I'm using it to further my point plus it's my favorite song at the moment.

It's been said that any two people in the church can marry and have a happy marriage. I agree to a certain extent if they both are willing to consistently work at the relationship.

This next part may come as a shocker but it's true. Guys and girls minds work completely different. (see verbal and non verbal communication)

A girl giving hints to a guy, to the guy is nothing more than normal. Does he pick up on the hints? Usually not unless he is very observant, and even then he can be off.

I again state if two parties can continue to work and COMMUNICATE "oh it'll turn out fine, but you got to keep your head up".

A relationship is work, even if it's easy to be with that person. The moment you stop working at a relationship is the moment it will end. You have to keep your head up both as the guy and the girl.

If you do this you know when your partner will be angry, or having a rough day, or something is wrong. When you've been around each other long enough you can even pinpoint what the problem is.

When you are upset don't expect the other person to read your mind, COMMUNICATE IT PLAINLY TO THEM! If you build your relationship on open communication, trust, and most importantly the spirit, oh it will turn out better than fine! Fine in my opinion is another way to say crappy. It will be amazing if you do this, and continue to do this.

For those of you not in a relationship "keep your head up" it'll happen. Focus on building your relationship with God so when Mr/Ms Right does come along you'll know it. There is more than 1 Mr/Ms Right for you as well, so don't count out anyone.

Andy Grammer - Keep Your Head Up
I've been waiting on the sunset Bills on my mindset I can't deny they're getting high Higher than my income In comes breadcrumbs I've been trying to survive

The glow that the sun gives Right around sunset Helps me realize This is just a journey Drop your worries You are gonna turn out fine. Oh, you'll turn out fine. Fine, oh, you'll turn out fine.

But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh. you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

I know it's hard, know its hard, To remember sometimes, But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

I've got my hands in my pockets, Kickin these rocks. Its kinda hard to watch this life go by. I'm buyin into skeptics, Skeptics mess with, the confidence in my eyes

I'm seeing all the angles, starts to get tangled I start to compromise My life and the purpose. Is it all worth it, Am I gonna turn out fine?

Oh, you'll turn out fine. Fine, oh, you'll turn out fine.

But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh. you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

I know it's hard, know its hard, To remember sometimes, But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

Only rainbows after rain The sun will always come again. And its a circle, circling, Around again, it comes around again.

Only rainbows after rain The sun will always come again. And its a circle, circling, Around again, it comes around,

But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh. you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

I know it's hard, know its hard To remember sometimes, But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh.

Keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh. Keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh. Keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down.

You Won't Want to Miss This!

2012-02-03T15:11:00.002-07:00

I just had that moment where so many things go through your mind at once and you have the sudden urge to express it all but don't know where to start! (If the sentence didn't make sense it's because it was a perfect example of too much stuff just blurted out.)

I was originally going to write about how I thought I might be an undercover tool but then I went to an institute devotional and the idea for this post changed.

The speaker was really funny and kept my attention, which was a good thing. I went to the devotional with a sub-par attitude hoping to be impressed. Wrong attitude I know but I warmed up fast to the entire experience. One because I was with some of my favorite people, and two because again the speaker was very good. He actually had my crying I was laughing so hard.

That is part of the point but not the whole of it. He spoke about being your spiritual self and not your natural self, and that isn't even what I wanted to point out. It was in his words that I learned an underlining meaning.

It was seeing yourself out side of your circumstances or seeing you for who you really are. He said a few times (and this is pointed at you) YOU ARE A SON/DAUGHTER OF GOD! You have a divine potential, and will succeed in reaching that potential if you believe in God and in that potential.

When you are down on yourself you are in the "natural man" state. When you are doing something wrong or looking at your outward appearance you are in the "natural man" state. (And no the natural man state is not one of the 50 states.)

The "natural man" is an enemy to God and has been since the fall of Adam and will be forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit.

The spiritual man is one who keeps perspective. When you are down on yourself for one reason or another this is what he asked us to do; Close your eyes, clear your mind, and imagine the savior. Look into his eyes and try and feel what he feels for you. Don't just do it for a short moment either or allow yourself to make any decision with out doing this. If you are still in the same mood or would make the decision then it is probably the right one to be made.

I ask you to do the same thing because I agree 100% with the council. You are a child of God, remember that!

You Should Blog About This!

2012-01-30T17:31:00.001-07:00

It's funny, people recently have done something or said something funny or interesting and right after turned to me and said "You should blog about this!"

Well it's not that easy. No offense but not everything is that easily spun into something of worth or interest to the readers of this blog. Not saying those things weren't funny or interesting I'm just saying I can't find a life lesson from it all.

That's the main criteria for any of the posts, and I'm still debating on whether or not to post this.

Today at church I received one of the greatest lessons of my life.

After over thinking things again and being nervous about my future a friend wrote me this message:

"I would just do the simple fun things in life that make you happy and others around you happy. No extravagant plans, no thinking ahead, just be content with the amazing things that ARE happening in life right now, not the things that aren't."

I think we all get caught up in planning out our future and sometimes forget to live in the present. At times getting so annoyed that things aren't perfect that it blinds us of what is.

I'll admit I allow this to happen, maybe a little too often, but the real lesson is taken from being in the service of others.

"Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. - Matthew 6:31-33

This is not the easiest thing to do but I stand as a witness that putting God and his kingdom first leads to us being taken care of as well!

"And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."

I have for a while wanted to give of my time to serve, and feel like now more then ever I am getting closer to making that a reality. Not just some of my time either, I want to devote all of it. I realize that is difficult to do in our day and age, but I ask you this question:

What more could YOU do for the person who gave up EVERYTHING for you?

A Series of Interesting Events

2012-01-28T12:36:00.001-07:00

This week I had a series of interesting events. I am 25 years old, and this is important because of one of the events I am about to sort of publicly announce...as public as my blog is.

The first event was Zumba, and although it was a lot of fun you feel (or I felt) like the biggest idiot until you have sort of warmed up to the idea. For me it was getting past feeling like I was being gay for doing it. Once I got settled in it was fun like it always is. Yes I am admitting to having done zumba before, and for that matter I have also done ballet, ballroom, swing, yoga, aerobics, and probably others that I have forgotten about.

Our stake is doing church basketball at the moment, and I am the sort of self proclaimed...allowed coach of our team. I sit outside bishops office when he is interviewing sisters so I really can't suit up and play myself so I coach. Our record is now 2 - 1 due to Thursday nights game. We lost by 6, but the good thing is people are having fun and everyone seems to be able to participate who wants to. The reason this was added to the interesting events will be revealed lower in the post.

After basketball, and every Thursday we have bishopric's meeting. In this ward I am coming up on 11 months in my calling. Bishop, his councilors and our ward clerk were also in attendance. All of them are married leaving me to be the only single member in the room. Bishop gave the opening prayer and blessed our wives, I don't remember the exact wording but I do remember that he blessed our wives. I then gave the thought after about appreciating and seeing God's hand in our lives. Seeing and appreciating the small miracles so when the big miracles come we will be able to build faith and appreciate those as well. (3 Nephi 1:4 - 22)

The next event happened on Friday. I told my boss that I was not going to be working there after February. One could call this a semi-retirement. Semi because I will still be working, just not in the way most people view work. I will be completely done with the 9-5 work style. I am going to work for myself doing internet marketing. Older people retire.

The last two events I will roll into one idea. It is our ward's month to clean the church, and today was the last day for doing it. The 2nd councilor's sons came to help clean the church. They are 9 and 7 and spent a lot of the time riding on the industrial vacuum cleaner I was pushing around the church. After cleaning was done we were walking back to the church and realized we were locked out. They were eating snow so the Uncle in me kicked in. I called them over and we sat down and played a game. The only game I could think of that time that could potentially keep them intrigued was Truth or Dare. It did keep them interested, and what was funny was when the older brother asked the question: "Who do you love" to the younger brother. He replied: "Of course you 2, but I also love my sister and my family!"

Now comes the reason I bring up this series of interesting events. I am ready to be a dad! I am done with single life, and I really don't care admitting it. I am not going to just marry the next girl who shows interest, nor am I marriage crazy. Honestly I don't care either way about that, but I do want to be a dad. Sigh. Problem is I sort of have to be married and wait 9 months to a year if not more to become a dad. Do you think they will let a single internet marketing guy who is 25 just adopt kids? Probably not oh well. If you look to all these events, they all point to actually being an adult. Being single I don't feel as if I can ever reach the adult status, because it always has that glaring word in front of it: "SINGLE".

There won't be any challenge to this post, this is mainly just food for thought...not that I am asking you to think about being the mother, just the purpose of life...awkward. (I had to put something slightly funny in this post because it was void up to that point :)

The Friend Test

2012-01-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

An interesting thought occurred to me the other day. I was sitting with a few friends, friends I've had for a while and was amazed to see how little I knew about them.

Yeah I know where they are from and interests they have and that kind of stuff but when it comes down to it I didn't know much more than that.

What I mean by this is, if you'd ask me their favorite color or food or something like that I could give you a guess but that would be the best I could do.

Sure I would stand up for them, help them when their sick, listen to them when they needed me, and be there in any situation but am I alone in not knowing much about them?

It may just be me but I don't really think it is. I could tell you everything there was to know about my best friends growing up but I think I'd fail with anyone outside of friends I grew up with.

Friend Test:

What was their first job?
What's their favorite color?
What's their favorite food?
Where were they born and when is their birthday?
Where did they grow up?
What do their parents do?
What are they studying?
What is their dream car and house?
What do they want to be?
What are their goals?
What do they like to do?
What do they not like to do?
What's their favorite song or what kind of music do they like?
Where do they work now?
What type of movies do they like and what's their favorite movie?

This stuff doesn't make or break a friendship but probably helps build it. I guess what is most important is the willingness to be there for them no matter what.

A relationship of any kind should be based on that, not what can I benefit from them. Your maturity shows in the relationships you keep.

Are you the friend always mooching off others or are you the one seeking to lift them up?

Embarrassing Moment I Hoped Would Never Come!

2012-01-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Something that takes most people a day took me almost 4 years. I know I'm a little slow and don't follow traditions and things but I didn't really care to ever have it happen to me.

To build up to this potentially embarrassing event I got sick for the second time in about a 3 week period. When your sick you need medicine. Well most people should probably take medicine, but up until a year ago I had yet to be able to start counting on my toes how many pills I had taken in my life. I usually just wait it out then round house kick the sickness in the face, but it had a pretty good grip on my throat and wasn't letting go.

I decided to get some medicine, and went to target on a whim or rather an invite from a few friends. While at target I picked up the usual medicine, Mike n Ikes and mints and grabbed a bottle of NyQuil as well. I took all my medicine up to the counter and laid it on the conveyer belt.

The lady scanned the 2 boxes of Mike n Ikes then the mints. When she got to the NyQuil she examined it as if she'd never seen it before and asked;

"Can I see your ID?"

"What?"

"Can I see your ID?"

"Uh, yeah...sorry it's under the picture of Belle."

I put a sticker of Belle from Beauty and the Beast over the plastic screen that held my drivers license. Honestly I was a little lost, it was my first time.

After paying for the items I walked out of the store a little deflated. I was hoping I was never going to have to be carded for anything but I guess it was bound to happen eventually with all the different things we get carded for.

What is the most random thing you've been carded for?

A Heckler's Change of Heart

2012-01-20T12:29:00.003-07:00

Monday morning I took the Christ-like attributes test for charity and love and improved incredibly from the beginning of the month. I guess that's what happens when you focus on anything long enough.

As proof that I was getting better two of my ex-girlfriends, who are married, started following me on a site called Pinterest (if you are a girl, you'd probably like the site...if you're a dude, don't judge, it really is a good marketing tool. :) and I actually felt really happy for them and their families! Crazy huh?

Not only that but every positive thing that has happened to people this week I've felt a genuine feeling of happiness for them!

I'm not perfect or even the best at these Christ-like attributes by any stretch of the imagination though. A perfect example of this was the UVU basketball game Monday night against Saint Mary's.

Not only did I learn the opposing teams players names so I could taunt them, I learned the coaches as well.

My favorite two were when everyone went silent and I yelled "Maybe next time you'll be able to hold onto the ball" at Jeb who had just lost it while trying to dribble; and coach Jon Bishop. We shot a three right in front of him and the rest of the game (at least the part that I watched) I didn't let him live it down!

Yes I'm a heckler, but writing this has sort of made me realize that, that's not nice :) It helps is win ball games but it tares down people at the same time.

The real purpose shouldn't be to lift yourself but lift everyone. You can still win or lose and part ways knowing you've done your best and feel good about it.

I dug a mental pit and buried all my heckling. No more cutting the other team down, which also sort of means I can't go to another Utah State basketball game, for fear of falling to the temptation.

I think this is what is meant by having a change of heart in the scriptures. So what is holding you up from your next change of heart?

Labeling Others

2012-01-16T17:14:00.001-07:00

The other day I was in a meeting with my bishopric, and the first councilor shared a thought about the unseen labels we carry. He explained that we never know what someone else is going through, and the extreme need for kindness. He shared a LDS ad where everyone walked around with a label on. It wasn't a label they had placed on themselves but what others categorized them as.

Then he furthered this point and said I wish we could see the labels people place upon themselves: low self esteem, depression, at a rough spot, anorexic, happy, newly engaged, etc.

Would we treat these people the same if we knew what labels they carried or try a little harder to build them up? Would we take an extra few seconds to see how they are really doing or think I wish I had the time to help but I'm too busy to care?

You might not say it exactly like that but "I'm late for school/work", or "I've got homework to do" all fall under the same category.

The other day I was asked; "Why don't you get stressed?" the truth is I do get stressed, but honestly only about dating. The reason that's my only stress is because nothing else will affect your eternal progression like that will.

So you got an C on a test, or your boss yelled at you, or you have to retake a class...big deal. God isn't going to say to you when you stand in front of him "Oh, I'm sorry you got a C on your test...Go to hell!"

He might say; Why didn't you take your time to see how "so and so" was doing? Or Why didn't you serve the people I put in front of you time and time again?

Now I do not wish to come down on anyone with this post, because I'm in the same boat. What I do wish or hope to do is get you to think take an extra second to respond to a situation and do what you're prompted to do.

The more you listen the more you will learn. Things aren't always how they seem! Also how are you doing on the January Joy Challenge?

I've Decided to Join the Military!

2012-01-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

I've thought about it for a while, I'd always wanted to see what it was like. So finally I made my decision to join the military. I'm signing up on Monday.

I've been looking for some sort of change for a while and this is almost as drastic a change as they come. I guess it didn't really take that much time to decide to do it, plus I could work as a landscape architect in the process and get a lot of training.

The thing is I'm very opinionated and if I don't like the way something is done or if I see a better way of doing it, I'm going to voice my opinion. The dream continued to confirm the fact that I would voice my opinion...a lot.

The drill Sargent got in my face and I never backed down. I think my first day I did over 1000 push-ups.

The next day was weird though I was a seasoned soldier and was actually leading a unit to clear an area out and set up a base camp for a new area we'd entered. It seemed like a lot of time had passed, and I guess I will never know what happened to me or that drill Sargent because my roommate woke me up right at that point.

Talk about crazy! I usually don't remember my dreams but thanks to roommate for waking me up I was able to remember one.

What is one of your craziest dreams?

Family Isn't It About Time

2012-01-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

Friday the 13th...uneventful. I am not superstitious but my Grandmother was and my Mom at least introduced me to those superstitions. I was almost positive something bad was going to happen through out the day but it didn't.

Actually on the way home from work something really good happened. I turned the radio on and my mind was flooded with memories of growing up! The song was "Land Down Under," and it reminded my of my senior year of high school all over again.

I was living at home with my two little sisters and to try and bridge the 10 year gap between the three of us, I would spend as much time with them doing the things they enjoyed doing. Turns out I watched a lot of chick flicks, sang, danced, and spent a lot of time talking about feelings. ;)

The reason these memories were triggered was "Land Down Under," was one of the first songs that we ever started to dance to. We would sort of march around the pool table at the foot of my bed to the stereo blaring the song. Whoever was in front of the line would do their "interpretive-esque" dance moves and the rest would follow.

It sounds dumb but doing that created some of my favorite memories with my sisters, and as cliche as this sounds "Family, isn't it about time"

If you notice I didn't punctuate the end of that phrase, and I did it on purpose. It could have gone 2 different ways: "Family, isn't it about time." and "Family, isn't it about time?"

It's a horridly subtle difference, but what I mean by it is this. "Family isn't about time." means spending time, serving them, loving them, and being there for them whenever they need it. That said the second meaning is just as important. If you aren't on talking terms or don't have the same relationship as above fix it. Isn't it about time?

I love my family and would do anything for them! ANYTHING...well within reason. I don't think I would become a felon or anything like that but everything up to that point.

Two thoughts come from this post, and they are the ones already mentioned. When is the last time you talked or spent time with your family? If it's been a while or if it's a rocky relationship look to fix it today. You are going to be spending eternity with them so you might as well get a long, and maybe even get to like them if you don't already.

So I close again with this phrase Family, isn't it about time

Twilight, Boredom, and My Gag Reflex...

2012-01-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

I sort of hate to admit this but, I guess it had to come out some time...I read the first Twilight book. Not only that but I started the second Twilight book. I say started because after the first few chapters I had to stop to get my gag reflex under control.

There is a reason why I read those books, and the reason was a girl. I know it sounds stupid but as any guy knows, we do a lot of things to impress girls. This was just one of the ones that I am not as proud of.

The interesting thing is, this girl is married. She actually got married to the next person she dated after me. It's become a common theme among the people I have dated.

I was living up in Logan at the time about a block from campus. My ward was the best ward I had been in up to that point, and I was a good 3 1/2 years younger. The Twilight series was getting really big around the area and it added almost endless material for my walking comedy act.

I was challenged by the previously mentioned girl to either stop making fun of the book or actually read it so I at least knew what I was making fun of. Between intrigue and interest in the female it pushed me over the top to at least skim the pages, which turned into reading the entire book. She then encouraged me to read the second book, and that's when my gag reflex kicked in!

The weird thing is when I sat down to write this, the part of the second book where every page was a month is what popped into my head as it sort of explains my life at the moment. Bland with a side of boring. The story continues though. After I returned the second book, not really able to read a page more I said good bye to the girl that night instead of the usual good night. Slightly Ironic because she actually disappeared the next day.

Not like she was kidnapped or reported missing or anything, the truth is she knew she was going to be disappearing. It was me that was left out of the loop.

I went to her apartment the next day as we had planned to go sledding the night before. When I arrived at her house later in the day her car was gone along with her and all her stuff. WTB? Apparently she had moved home to be with her family and just forgot to inform me of that fact. Just a minor detail I guess.

Well after a month she moved back as if nothing had ever changed. THE END...beside the fact that she got married 3 months later.

I go back to the "bland with a side of boring" point, and ask this question (the story was just a bonus): What do you do to keep life interesting? Please comment!!!

100th Post - A Focus on Perspective!

2012-01-10T14:51:00.002-07:00

Today's post was the flip side of the last post. I wrote the majority of it on Sunday, and finished it today. The day was great, all except for falling asleep in Bishops class that is. I heard somewhere that you learn better when you sleep so I am probably good...

Despite the fact that I was fighting sleep I actually caught quite a bit of the lesson. Most of which I won't share here, but inspired the post.

This post, my 100th post, is about perspective. As I look back over the hundred posts I can see a few things have changed. One thing was my location, a second my outlook on life, my circle of friends, and a few other things.

When I started blogging I was waiting on a missionary only to find out later that it wouldn't work out. Would I change a few things if given the opportunity? Maybe but probably not. I'm not really the kind of guy that lives with regrets or wails in the depths of sorrow over a mistake I've made. It happens, change and get over it!

The interesting thing for me though was the clear view of how I've changed. Would I be the same person if I hadn't gone through those experiences? Definitely not!

Last night my roommates, a few friends and I got into a conversation where the subject of marriage was brought up. Seeing as we were all over 21 it's not that out of the norm to have that topic come up.

As we were discussing it, and playing chess as if in that room was gathered some of the most philosophical minds of our age, one question was asked; "Why aren't you married?" For a moment my mind went back to the post on things people say to singles, but quickly jumped back to the conversation.

The point came up that for each the reasons were different. Which is something I have been thinking about for at least the last few months. Because of this thought I have completely stopped giving advice other than singing "ere you left your room this morning..." or giving them some sarcastic comment leading to the same outcome as the song.

I've realized the only council I usually ever need is the council from Heavenly Father. He is perfect and gives perfect advice. I do realize that at times the council or advice comes from others but in all reality it's still coming from Heavenly Father just through that person.

So why are you not married? Ask God, and work it out with him. He's all knowing and will help you to align your goals with his. He is looking for your well being and knows when you are or will be ready, so don't blame him or get angry that things aren't working out the way you wanted them to. If he let things always happen the way you wanted we all would be screwed! :)

It Will All Work Out!

2012-01-07T22:59:00.001-07:00

Today I felt completely helpless. You know the feeling when you just don't seem to be doing anything right, well that was me today.

I had plenty of time as usual to do some thinking and in that thinking I felt as though I had reached another brick wall. Brick walls don't really describe the feeling, because you can always walk along a brick wall and eventually find an opening or end to it. This was more like a deep dark well, with no rope to climb out.

A few events helped to drive me to that point:

1. I was with my brothers, both of whom are married and have families, cleaning my oldest brother's rental property. The place was a mess full of dust and everything you would see in a place owned by "cat people." I love my brothers, but when I am around them I can't help thinking about what they have and I still don't. They don't flaunt it in my face and more than anything are sympathetic, but it doesn't change the facts.

2. A few friends and I went to Wingers for dinner. At wingers we were assigned a table close to the door. Our waitress was married, and like any guy would know the only thing worse then a married waitress is a dude waiter. At the restaurant there was a shorter waitress with black hair. She was really pretty and I couldn't help but notice her. As she passed by our table she looked right at me and gave a flirtatious smile. Now I have never been one to pick up on a random girl, but what had I got to lose?

We walked out of the restaurant after finishing up and once at the car the other two turned to me and challenged me to get the girls number. A thousand thoughts ran through my mind all ending on "might as well." I walked back towards the entrance and through the doors. She was surrounded by 3 other female coworkers but I would have looked like an idiot to back down now. I walked up to her and asked for her name. She smiled nervously and gave it to me. Then I asked for her number, to which she responded with a big and said "Yes!...but I'm only 16"

I felt like I was hit with a brick. I totally did not expect that to be the outcome. I probably turned 5 shades of red and replied "Oh......uh, nevermind" and walked out to their nervous giggling.

There were others as well but I share these stories because it's interesting how Satan uses these things to make us feel like the future is bleak. He twists things to make a task or commandment seem impossible when really the answer or solution is right in front of your face. He tries blinding us or works to get us to focus on the things that seem the most impossible.

For example the darkness of the well. If you wait long enough your eyes will adjust to see the cracks between breaks is your way out. Yes it requires patience but there is always a way out.

It's not always easy, but there is always a perfect way out. You won't always see it at first but with faith and patience the way will always be revealed. Surround yourself with good influences and turn to prayer and the scriptures on your best days and more importantly your worst days.

As Gordon B. Hinckley would say "It'll all work out!"

The Best of 2011 - Top 25

2012-01-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

Did you miss a post in 2011? Well here is the best the year has to offer: (chronological order)

I hope you enjoyed 2011, and I will do my best to make 2012 a little more entertaining!

The January Joy Challenge!

2012-01-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

I was struggling to find a topic to write about today, that is until I went to my Facebook page. As most of you know on the right side of the page it has Event Invitations, and mine is usually dominated by 1 thing: weddings.

I'll be honest when I get a new invite for a wedding the first thought that crosses my mind is not a positive one. I don't think I am the only one that thinks that way either!

Even better than this is the name the people usually give their "Event Invitation." Usually something that only the 2 think is creative or an inside joke of some kind. Well I don't get it...It's an inside joke, please keep it...inside. :)

Now after the small bout of frustration or jealousy passes, (and yes I am admitting to being jealous/frustrated when others get married, and no it's not Christlike) I realize I am being dumb and think "Suck on that Satan you blasted gomik!" Another couple has made another step towards eternity, yay!

There may or may not be a few more negative thoughts before that happens, but at least it happens right?

Again why do I bring this up? I bring it up because it's one of the things I have always struggled with: being happy for other's success. Most of the success others have as long as it's outside of relationships and dating is great, and I am just shy of instantaneously happy for them.

(The picture on the right is from Preach My Gospel page 126) # 23 is the killer! This comes from the Christ-like attributes test at the end of chapter 6 in Preach My Gospel. It asks you to rate yourself on a scale from 1 - 5 and I want to challenge everyone, myself included, to seek to score a 5 on all these questions by the end of the month.

I'll call it the January Joy Challenge. What I would like you all to do is take the test at least weekly and write in your journal daily (if you don't have one, go get one) about your experiences with this simple test! At the end of the month look back through it all to see how you've changed, and if so inclined you can even take excerpts from the journal and share them here!

Good luck and I sincerely hope you all are able to do well! :)

Winner of the 3ft Mojosac Give Away

2012-01-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

After several months of working to give away a bean bag chair I finally reached my revised goal of 64 followers.

I sat down in my computer chair and stared at the "Mojosac Give Away 2011 Bracket," found the 1986 - 50 cent coin I carry with me almost everywhere and started flipping. And flipping, and flipping, and flipping. It took me an hour and a half but we have a winner!

RILEY GROVES

Congratulations dude, I will pick up the bag and drop it off at your apartment. For those of you who participated I thank you for your follows, and do know that I will be giving away another bean bag chair as soon as I hit 128 followers!

Clean Slate for the New Year

2012-01-01T13:09:00.001-07:00

As I debated about what to blog about to start the new year, a few ideas crossed my mind.

I was sitting in sacrament meeting and was looking over the joint stake sacrament meeting we were having. There were groups of people from all the wards in the stake. The left overs that didn't go home or made it in time for the meeting.

It was interesting to me though the peace and calm that attended the meeting as the sacrament was passed. It reminded me of the story in 3 Nephi where Christ appeared to the surviving Laminates and Nephites. No Christ didn't appear to us as he did to them but his spirit was definitely there.

What greater message than this to share?

As we start this new year and contemplate our goals keep your purpose in mind.
Yesterday I had the opportunity to be reminded of this purpose. I was sitting marketing one of the websites my brothers and I have been working on; when I heard what sounded like hysterical laughter outside my window.

It continued for sometime so I looked out the window and saw a girl on the ground. Stuff was everywhere she was crying on the phone and occasionally yelling out in pain HELP!

I got off my bed and ran down the stairs to where the girl was laying. She didn't have help coming so I got my car and drove back to where she was. I picked her up and sat her in my car.

She was headed to work so I stopped by and informed them she wasn't going to make it then headed to the hospital.

She thanked me and mentioned it's a good thing she was in Utah because back in LA no one would have stopped to help. She also mentioned the fact that it had been an injury proned year.

As sarcastic and unfiltered as I am I responded good thing the years over!

The year is over and we get a fresh start. Make this year the best year you have ever had. Pray more earnestly, serve more faithfully, study more frequently, and care more sincerely. I promise if you put God and others first all your other goals will come to pass this year. That is our purpose. Serve God and his children.

That is my testimony in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Bare Necessities of Life!

2011-12-31T10:58:00.002-07:00

"Wallet, cellphone, keys" I say mentally to myself as I pat the pockets where they should be and walk out the door.

This is my routine before I go anywhere, and I'm lost without those three things. Clothes, food, and water optional but my wallet, cellphone, and keys are the bare necessities of life!

It's sort of sad but their is a lot of truth to it. Just think back ten years ago, only a handful of people owned a cellphone. Now if you don't have one people act as if you're a caveman or psycho for not owning one. I know I've caught myself saying one of the following: "How am I supposed to get in touch with them?" or "Why even have a cellphone if you never answer?" Both hinting at the need for that person to get back to you immediately.

50 years ago...

Well my friends let's look back 50 years ago. (Most of us probably can't because we weren't alive but that's why we have old people right? Like Moms and Dads JK ;) Did anyone back then die because all they had were landlines or were they more patient with the answering machine that is the bane of our existence?

Better yet what were their "Wallet, cellphone, keys"? I know for my dad it was "wallet, watch, keys" because he didn't have a nifty phone to tell him the time. Cooler still what will it be 50 years from now?

Will our phone be our key to our car and home and have our money or cards on it, or will we even need phones then?

Crazy to think about, but this all came up due to me losing my wallet yesterday when I tried to go out to eat at the sizzler.

2050 - Brain, microchip, fingertip
2011 - Wallet, cellphone, keys
1950 - Wallet, watch, keys
1900 - Gun, watch, keys
1850 - Gun, axe, food

What are your bare necessities?

WTB? The Blogging World is Female?

2011-12-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

Pacman or woman in this case

Have I been naive up to this point, or am I just crazy? I have been looking at the blogging community, and I would say that 90% or more are female bloggers! WTB? (What the Bleen...bleen is a Russian slang word meaning pancake or dang)

Has it always been this way or is blogging just a female thing to do? I looked at a blog from one of the people I recently contacted and all up and down the side of her blog were tons of other female bloggers! It didn't stop there though, all the other bloggers had this as well.

Was I just so blasted caught up in trying to keep people here that finally do make it to my blog that I neglected to do the same...less than seemingly manly...thing by putting links up to their blogs as well?

As I continued to search blogs, I found some guy bloggers but they talked about girls as though they were just an object of desire and their pictures matched their content. Either that or they talked about internet marketing.

I am starting to think I may have been the original bubble boy. Yeah I grew up around guys that talked that way, and it even happens here but I guess I have just been blocking it out for so long that I forgot it happened.

Well I know there are other bloggers out there that talk about other things, and even put a slightly less piggish outlook on dating. A few are: Easter Closet, Damn Interesting, and Single Dad Laughing (all blogs I've briefly introduced you to.)

I personally love to read, and reading and writing blogs has sort of become a past time for me. So here goes, I need your help, and I mean you the one reading this blog. Are you interested to see some of the other killer blogs I have found out there, or do you even care to read beyond the first few paragraphs of my normal life?

Please let me know if you'd like me to share because if so there's some pretty cool stuff out there!

Please comment above!

Single? Maybe You Have Heard These Responses Before

2011-12-29T15:16:00.003-07:00

As many of you know I am single (If you follow this blog at all you know I am single,) now just because I am single and in my mid 20s doesn't mean you need to set me up on a blind date.

The reason I even mention being single in this post is because I was reading Single Dad Laughing and came across his post entitled: Things You Should Never Say to Someone Who’s Single. Well it made me laugh because I have heard these exact words come from people I know!

So, why are you single?
Just have fun with it!
Have you tried online dating?
It just wasn’t meant to be.
It will happen when you least expect it.
There are plenty of fish in the sea.
You’re just too picky.
Are you kidding? I wish I was single and in your shoes.
You’re so attractive! What's the problem?
Maybe you’re not trying hard enough.
She just hasn’t found you yet.
When are you going to get married?
There are so many great guys/girls out there.
I’m sorry.
You’ll be complete some day.
You’ll always be single until you fix (random problem) up.
At least you don't have to deal with...(hardships of marriage or kids etc)
You’re not getting any younger!
Oh, you’re the unmarried one.
Are you gay?
You’re too skinny.
It must be so nice to be single.
You know, your clock is ticking.
Maybe if you change your look.
Come on over…you won’t be a third wheel!
Beggars can’t be choosers.
Your self confidence scares girls off.

Again I have heard all of these at least once, and he (SDL) put responses after every single one of these. I thought about doing the same, but it was just funny to see these in the first place.

That said, this is a note to all single people and a reference to one of my previous posts: (Advice take it with a grain of sand) Don't worry, be happy! Honestly worrying is the worst thing, and trust me I know it's hard not to worry some times. That is the only real advice I can give. Yes there are tricks to get asked out, and to be noticed but there are no tricks for finding one of the people who are right for you. Date, try and better yourself, and relax. After all that's all you even sort of have control over anyway.

If you are single and have found that these responses sound familiar comment above! (If you are not single and see that you have said one of these you can comment as well.)

My first Kiss

2011-12-28T18:32:00.004-07:00

(Note to readers before we begin I was 16 when this happened so I had to clean up the writing to make it understandable and I'll spare you some of the details because they are a little embarrassing...)

It was our second date, and she asked me to the court warming dance. Our first date had gone well, I had to come up with a quick plan B for it and thanks to my mother being the person she is we had all types of props and things to work with.

I don't remember what plan A was but it couldn't have been better then plan B. If it was then I'm a dating genius. ;)

Again it was the court warming dance my sophomore year and she was one of the head cheerleaders. Her brother was one of my best friends, so I had spent some time at their house.

It was another double date...and in high school I think that is all I went on. It was safer that way. From my journal entry I wore black pants and suspenders with a silver tie and white shirt.

My guess is I thought that was a pretty slick outfit. It also sounds like I thought I was a lot studlier then I actually was, but honestly what guy didn't think that way at that age? Plus I was in all the different circles and was a well liked guy because of it.

I picked up my co-date and we waited for our dates to arrive. I had set him up with one of my good friends because he was interested and it seems I have always tried to be a match maker.

They arrived and we put our corsages on our dates. They then proceeded to do the same to us "(My date) then pined the corsage on me and it kept poking me. We took pictures then ate." I will paraphrase because I was brutally detailed about everything that happened back then.

Example: I opened the door and let her in then walked to the other side of the car and opened my door and got in...

My car was blocked in so my friend drove. I mention this because it comes into play later. We got to the dance and it was raining so I covered her on our run to the door. We entered the gym where the dance was going on and started dancing (go figure.) I was called up for royalty the prince of the 10th graders, Yay! Who really cares, but back then it was a big deal.

This is where it gets embarrassing but I decided to share it anyway because it's funny...at least to me. When I got back they played a slow song and "we stared into each others eyes the whole time."

I had the song "I Swear" dedicated to her, but they didn't play it. Bonus points anyway because apparently it really is the thought that counts.

This is where it happened

Now comes the really embarrassing part. So I asked my friends to slow everyone down or let them know I was going to make a move, and my date and I ran to the car. They were behind us, and all turned around about 10 feet from us. They were all choir people and started singing for mood music. That's when it happened I placed my hand on her cheek and we kissed.

Exact quote: "We piled into the car and she sat on my lap, because there were 6 of us. She was warm and smelled so sweet. I put my arms around her and held her. We kissed a few more times...Then I asked (my friend) to tell me what they talk about because they were having a sleep over...The kisses were absolutely magnificent"

Not like I had anything to judge it off but it was nice.

Tell me about your first kiss below:

I just realized I changed the format of the site and the comment section is actually above the post now...I would still love comments though :)

I'll Never Fly Angry Again!

2011-12-26T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today's post started out as "Flying tips," and although I will be sharing a few tips briefly that's not where it will end.

To get to the first of the two point post here are a few little things to take on the plane that have helped me while flying:

Good book or puzzles - it makes the time on the flight fly by.
Empty water bottle - they don't take it from you if it's empty, and you can fill it up almost anywhere.
Snacks - airport food is expensive, and all they give you on the flight is a few peanuts.
Carry on luggage - but if they take the carry on because there is no room on the flight put it on the top rack because it always comes out first when you are leaving.
And the last thing would be a tranquilizer gun (or sucker) - because on my flight back a little girl two rows up screamed from the moment she was seated.

You wouldn't think a girl that size could have the lungs to scream like that but it seemed to penetrate the entire cabin of the plane. It wasn't your normal scream either, it was almost to the level of a dog whistle when you shouldn't hear it anymore. It was shrill and varied in volume and pitch. Just think of a choir singing a beautiful song then on the last note they clash with 10 different notes now continue that sound for a while and that's what it was like.

As I was writing this the flight attendants were passing out drinks and snack. I'd say snacks but making it plural doesn't make sense with the amount they give you.

It seemed like they were parked beside my seat for forever trying to figure things out. Normally I wouldn't care but the woman attendant's ample butt sat 6 in from my face. On my right a U of U kid sat half sleeping half coughing and took up the entire arm rest so instead of getting sick I decided to be a butt face.

This coupled with the screaming baby made for an interesting scene. Then it hit me. The quote I had been thinking about for the last few days from page 77 of Pendragon - The Lost City of Faar. It's a book, a good friend recommended I should read, and for good reason. I'd recommend it to anyone else who likes to read.

Here's the quote from the character Vo Spader: "There's always two ways of looking at things...In my few short years I learned that seeing what's positive about a situation is a lot more fun and gets you a lot further than looking for what might be wrong with it. That's my philosophy, for what it's worth."

Well I think it's a genius philosophy and immediately put a smile on my face!

Shortly after the screeching stopped and the butt moved away. Now it's just a funny memory to be logged away in my vault of interesting stories!

To requote Spader: "Seeing what's positive about a situation is a lot more fun and gets you a lot further than looking for what might be wrong with it."

It's true you can't always change your situation or circumstances but you can always change your attitude; and although that situation could have potentially made for a bad flight, thanks to that checklist and the quote it was actually pretty enjoyable!

My Christmas Story

2011-12-24T01:03:00.021-07:00

It's after midnight and I'm sitting on the couch in the house I grew up in. My family is asleep all except for our dog Kenai and my little sister making kimchi for her boyfriend.

Our dog is a chocolate lab German shepherd mix and one of the quietest dogs I've had. He still feels like a pup even though in dog years he's about 57 or so.

Seeing him, my sister, and family again has triggered memory after happy memory of living in Missouri. Sleepless nights talking with my siblings, Donkey Kong on N 64 with my brothers, games of all kinds with the family, Dad reading commentaries to prolong scripture study, Christmases waiting for Mom to go to bed so we could find our stockings to see what we got, the 12 days of Christmas every year, and all the other incredible memories held in this home.

I haven't been home for Christmas in far too long so it's been a nice refresher of the true meaning of Christmas.

One of the memories that has stayed most vibrant in my mind was a year in which we each opened only one present. We also read from the bible the story of Christ's birth, and served in a assisted living center. It was an incredibly simple Christmas but stood out more than any other.

This year after Church is over and the presents have been unwrapped take some time to sit alone and thank Heavenly Father for His Son Jesus Christ. Take time to think about the night the Savior was brought into the world. Think of his birth and the humble stable that first gave residence to the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. What memories were held in that home, and how do we return thanks to him, or show our appreciation?

This year a simple token would be to read about his life, birth, and ascension into Heaven. Then ponder on the subject, and see the holiday for its intended meaning and see others for their intended purpose here on earth.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that WHOSOEVER believeth in him should not parish, but have everlasting life."

Merry Christ-mas friends and family, I love you all!

My Normal Life - Redefined

2011-12-21T19:09:00.001-07:00

For those of you who are new to My Normal Life, it's not so normal. Besides being a blogger I am an advice giving, internet marketing, landscape architect, executive secretary, dating fiend, Mormon, friend, son, and brother. I blog about what happens in my life and share what's most important to me in hopes that my experiences may be of some use.

I've had a ton on my mind as of late, and among those things has been improving my blog, wardrobe change, internet marketing, and as always dating. (If you are a regular to the blog you probably noticed the new theme. Tell me what you think of it in the comments below, and I really do appreciate your previous comments and just reading the blog! I love to write and having an audience makes it even better.)

I am giving away a bean bag chair once I receive my 64th follower. That means I am 9 away from giving a 3ft Mojosac bean bag chair away, and you can be the lucky person who wins it.

When looking to improve my blog I was thinking up all the different things other bloggers do to make them more interactive or useful. Their content, the way they write their posts, pictures, and other random things I see on their sites. Well I am offering an incentive to the give-away, sort of like a double elimination round in a sport.

For my give-away I will give everyone (every follower to the blog that is) who offers ideas of how to improve the blog a second elimination or "life" in my Bean Bag Give-Away Bracket. Whether it be new pages like the dating ideas page, or video of the week in a certain subject, or whatever. I again am looking to make the blog more interactive in hopes to take it to a new level and sort of reshape the way I blog. Please share your ideas below!

Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication - Yeah We Could All Use A Little Help!

2011-12-14T19:09:00.001-07:00

I sometimes wonder what DNA was in that rib taken from Adam, because how could man and woman all stem from the same human being?

God created both, and they think so completely different it's a wonder how we communicate with the opposite sex at all!

The other day I was asked to look up a few terms:

Dialectical tensions - tensions that occur when relationship goals conflict; relationship differences that usually revolve around differences in their desires.
Meta communication - is communication that indicates how verbal information should be interpreted and concerns stimuli surrounding the verbal communication that also have meaning, and which may or may not be congruent, supportive or contradictory of that verbal communication.
Paralinguistic - Paralanguage refers to the non-verbal elements of communication used to modify meaning and convey emotion. Paralanguage may be expressed consciously or unconsciously, and it includes the pitch, volume, and, in some cases, intonation of speech.
Presume - Suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability
Assume - Suppose to be the case, without proof.

I mainly wanted to focus on paralinguistic, and meta communication, although the rest could easily apply. In connecting the two thoughts were it not for non-verbal communication this world would not communicate, because 93% of communication is non verbal!

Guys are logical, girls are emotional. (not to be taken negatively only stating facts by leading psychologists and other bright minds...1/2 of which are women) Girls seem to communicate a lot better through the non-verbal forms then men. (Example: See diagram to the right for guys that same conversation would have taken an hour verbally)

To give a visual on 93% of a conversation being verbal I want to use the Gettysburg Address.

The Gettysburg Address:
Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

That is what our conversations would look like on paper...does it carry the same meaning?

Guys and girls see things completely differently, but I am under the impression that if both sexes looked more at the non-verbal messages being sent the world would be a much better place.

Now if we were actually there for the Gettysburg Address, it would look a lot more like this:

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Don't assume or presume something to be the case, but rather give people the benefit of the doubt. Communicate what you mean and to save us guys the trouble and we will do the same for you. Please make the verbal meaning more prevalent!

Guest Post - Why You Should NOT Take People's Advice in Dating

2011-12-13T11:58:00.001-07:00

Funny Dating Advice

I did a guest post trade with Zack Oates, one of my mission companions. He blogs as well, EasterCloset.com. We are the only 2 (that I know of) from those with whom we served left in the world we call dating. He is a really funny guy and on the same level of cynicism as I sound like I am on...

My buddy was telling this girl, with whom i was flirting, about my blog (never a good idea, I've come to realize...unless you are my buddy trying to pick up on the girl i'm....BLAST!), and he said he is a devoted reader. She asked if he was dating anyone and he replied, 'No, but I'm following this guy's every word of advice [awkward thumb point towards me], so I know I'm on the right path.'

I looked at him...

in disgust.

And not just because of the superfluous gesticulations, but let me tell you my friends, if you are taking "every word of advice" on this blog or from anyone else, you are nowhere near the right path (unless that path is the well trodden dirt road leading to the rope swing of loneliness...in which case, keep going straight until you hit the Squaw Peak parking lot and then hard right at the frozen yogurt shop on every block and then look kitty corner from the hot tub I live in--that's where it begins).

And while, there are some gems of wisdom that your trusted dating advisors will tell you, 1 out of 1 dating doctors will tell you these two pieces of advice: you are not them and they are not you.

You are not them: Their story, their situation and their happily (n)ever after are uniquely theirs. True love is like a snowflake because (...it dies when it touches me) it is different than any other. So take their advice with a grain of snow melt.

They are not you: here is the truth I have come to realize in my meaning (full/less (this is a choose your own adjective adventure sentence)) meanderings (+3) through dating is that eventually, the other person is going to have to get to know you. The more advice you take, the less they are dating you, but rather a conglomerate of the bits of advice you have gotten from everyone else. Just be yourself. If they like you, they will realize it faster; if they don't, you will get over it faster.

Honesty is like Pepto-Bismol when you're sick--you will either feel better or throw up.

So take advice, but take it in doses and take only when needed. And THAT advice is OTC (off the chain)!

Zack Oates

My Future Spouse Criteria List

2011-12-12T17:25:00.001-07:00

I have become sort of a self proclaimed advice guru, and being such I hear a lot of relationship drama. I have had a few conversations where the individual with whom I was talking was having issues trying to find someone to date. Each conversation seems to start and end the same. "I have been trying to date this person but they aren't like (insert previous person here)," or "they don't do this or this so it's not what I am looking for."

I have had lesson after lesson where people have told me and others that you have to be the person that would attract the person you are looking to marry. I do agree with this statement, but it's not that easy! There is more to it then just being that person.

In the many conversations I have had with friends, family, and others...(not really sure who fits in the other category) I have come to realize that there is another big factor that plays a part in attraction and marriage. Now it is not the only other factor but I think an important one to look at, and it is summed up with this question:

What is your "Magic Criteria List," or the list of things you are looking for in a match?

I want you to grab a sheet of paper and a pen, and take the next few minutes to write your entire list down! I mean everything, what are you looking for in your future spouse? Attractive, musically inclined, spiritual, honest, funny, blond, blue eyed, 6'4", kind, etc. Write it all down. Now I want you to read through the list carefully thinking about each of the items. Go into the bathroom put the paper over the trashcan or tub, and burn the list.

"Dang it Chris, that was a really good list!" No, no it wasn't. It is because of people's lists that relationships are for the most part so hard.

I met with my bishop about a year ago and he asked me to tell him what I had on my list. I told him 3 things:

Attractive
Spiritual
Friend

The attractive part doesn't necessarily mean physically either. There needs to be an attraction, even if it is a minor one at the beginning. I have grown to finally understand at least in part that you don't just fall in love, or have love at first sight, you grow to love someone. Lust is love at first sight. Love is putting someone else's needs above your own. So the more time you spend with someone the more attractive they become, or the more in love you become.

Why do I keep my list so basic? Well those are the things that matter most to me. They are based on my priorities, and foundation. If I build it upon anything else it fails.

I bring this all up because I had a conversation a few months ago in which some one was comparing all their dates with a previous person they dated. STOP. That person is gone. I say that and it may sound harsh but the fact of the matter is the person isn't around anymore let them go, and don't compare the now to the past.

History has a funny way of covering up the undesirable parts making it seem that everything was rosy. Well, not only do I blog but I write in my journal, and even the greatest relationship I was in had its rocky bits. Things I had forgot about or let slide because I cared for the person came out in the pages of my journal from time to time. Don't compare. Look at a person for who they are instead of who or what they aren't!

Focus on what they do well. Give the person a chance and the things that really bug you will either be eliminated or you will have to move on.

What is most important to you in a future spouse?

My Bucket List - A Work in Progress

2011-12-09T12:47:00.005-07:00

For the longest time I have kept an unwritten bucket list. This list usually only comes up as I am doing things that are crazy or seem like they would fit on a bucket list like: kiss in the rain, run across the Golden Gate Bridge, be ranked in the world for something, become an Eagle Scout, fly and airplane, visit the Vincent Van Gogh museum, polar bear challenge, take a train across Europe, drive the opposite way on the freeway, etc.

Because of not having a written bucket list, it has always been completely crossed off as soon as I come up with something. Goal setting and planning is important so I am finally going to create a bucket list.

Chris Hupp's Bucket List:

Run with the bulls in Spain
Ride a bull
Own a Ranch
Take a cruise
Swim with dolphins
Punch a shark
Wrestle a crocodile
Go ice and deep sea fishing
Go sailing for at least a week
Go snorkeling in a shipwreck
Visit every continent
Swim in all the oceans
Visit all 50 states
Visit Jerusalem
Visit the Amazon
Visit the Louvre
Drive hwy 1 in California
Drive 200 mph on a race track
Bike From Maine to California
Fly - Hang glide Fly a plane by myself
Ride in a hot air balloon
Travel by seaplane
Take a train across Russia
Go on an African Safari
Backpack from Canada to Mexico through the mountains
Build my own home
Run the stairs of empire state building
Ride a gondola in Venice
Walk the entire Oregon Trail
Experience zero gravity
Write a book and get it published
Be one of the landscape architects for the LDS Church
Speak Fluently - English, Russian, Spanish, German, Greek, and ASL

Visit as many wonders of the world as possible:

Great Pyramid of Giza
Hanging Gardens of Babylon - gone
Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
Mausoleum of Maussollos at Halicarnassus
Colossus of Rhodes - gone
Lighthouse of Alexandria - rebuilt but original gone
Stonehenge
Colosseum
Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Great Wall of China
Porcelain Tower of Nanjing
Hagia Sophia
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Taj Mahal
Cairo Citadel
Ely Cathedral
Cluny Abbey
Petra
Christ the Redeemer
Machu Picchu
Chichen Itza
Potala Palace
Old City of Jerusalem
Polar ice caps
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

Mayan ruins
Grand Canyon
Great Barrier Reef
Harbor of Rio de Janeiro
Mount Everest
Aurora
Parícutin volcano
Victoria Falls

Oh yeah and get married...eventually

This list is a work in progress, but again I would love to hear about your bucket list!

Share your bucket list below in the comments section:

Girls - 5 Tips to Get a Guy to Ask You Out!

2011-12-07T20:13:00.005-07:00

I am always seeking to improve my blog and the subject matter covered on it. I took the advice of several people, females mainly due to the fact that I am a male and my blog is written from a males perspective of dating and life in general.

Some of the comments made were: "You need to be nicer to girls on your blog," "Your blog needs to have a positive spin on dating or girls would never date you past the first date," "You should never blog about specific girls on your blog or girls won't want to date you," "You should be more helpful and insightful and less bias on your blog," "You really don't have a filter do you," and my personal favorite "You're weird."

If you are reading this blog, and have found yourself a part of it at some time, I am sorry...I won't post about you anymore :)

That and I realize dating can be crappy for both parties, not just guys. Guys put themselves out there in hopes that a girl will be interested. Girls have to sit and wait for a guy to actually ask them. You don't have a lot of control over who asks you, but you do have some control. Here are a few tips that will help you get asked out:

Tell your friends who you like - it's even better if they are a mutual friend of the guy in whom you are interested. Most people will drop hints to him. Hints that he can pick up on.
Body Language - Smile at him, break the touch barrier, etc. These simple things will help him notice you and develop an attraction enough to get the date.
Talk to him - Crazy enough if you spend time talking to him on a more frequent basis he will take notice. Let him know you are available with out saying "I am available."
Do things he likes to do, or go places where he will be - This one has to be used carefully, because you don't want to come across as a creeper. If you are everywhere he is, it's a turn off.
Don't be too forward - This is the number 1 turn off! What I mean by this is don't just agree with everything he says or say yes to the date before he asks you. Don't stalk him, or laugh at everything he says. And in most cases do not ask him out! I don't know why but guys feel intimidated if the girl asks, or try's to plan the date. (If it's a girls choice activity that is different.)

Extra IMPORTANT Tips:

If you truly are busy when he asks you out give some kind of encouragement or he will move on, or not ask you again. DON'T BE TOO BUSY. Make time to date. I have had girls complain to me about not getting asked out, then when they do they turn him down.
Don’t talk, text, or call him over and over - Dating is like tennis, if you hit the ball let them return it.
Don't flirt with every guy, and definitely don't do it just to make him jealous. If you are looking for a nice guy who will treat you well that is a turn off!
If you ask a guy who he likes and he hesitates and says that he doesn’t know that probably means he likes you! It doesn't always mean this but more often then not.
NUMBER 1 TIP - DON'T PLAY DUMB MIND GAMES...or smart ones either.

Tell me what you think, and feel free to ask whatever! here is your chance to get into the male psyche.

Forgive Others - Parable of the Unprofitable Servant

2011-12-06T12:06:00.001-07:00

Today was the viewing of one of the councilor's to my Bishop in Logan. He was 55 years old and died of a massive heart attack. He had a few children and most were still in school.

As I sat and thought about his passing, it occurred to me. What is stopping anyone from going in the blink of an eye as he did? We hear it happen all the time in the news and in our communities, but it doesn't seem to affect us. We look at things as if we deserve them, and don't seem to take enough time to appreciate what we have and more importantly who we have.

Take a moment to stop and thank those who serve you, those who love you and care about you. Give thanks for the random acts of kindness and reciprocate them.

Look for opportunities to build others up, and take the time to apologize and mend situations where you have done wrong.

Seek to avoid contention. Seek to lift where you stand. If ever a hurtful word comes out of your mouth, think of the consequences of saying such things. Think! Is it really doing any good or just helping fuel the hate and anger that seems to be so easily spread?

If you have done something a miss whether you think it wrong or not, we should swallow our pride and ask forgiveness.

For if we give not forgiveness, we receive not forgiveness from Him who matters most.

We are the servants to whom much is given; what more is required of us?

Forgive the debts owed to you and all will be forgiven if you seek it!

My First Guest Post...On Someone Else's Blog!

2011-12-05T21:15:00.004-07:00

The other day one of my former mission companions (also the only companion I have left who isn't married or engaged yet. This is due to one more of my companions getting engaged yesterday.) and I had a brief conversation in the which we ended up doing an exchange of blog posts. I write a post for his and he for mine. Well he posted mine today. Here is a small preview:

"My name is Chris Hupp and I am part of a dying breed of gentleman. A breed that continues to open the door and pull out the chair for a lady. I enjoy being spontaneous and creative on a date, and like Zack I'm fighting the battle against tools.

The debate still continues for guys everywhere of which side of the fence they will find themselves. As for me, my mother raised me on this thought: "A girl should be able to get from point A to point B without touching a thing."

Sadly enough more and more guys aren't keeping to this standard, which makes it difficult for everyone for two simple reasons:" Read More...

In this post I also created a list of 15 winter dating ideas that are fun and easy:

Outdoor:

Snow man, snow ball fight, snow forts, and snow angels
Ice blocking - but be careful, I have know this date to be dangerous at times.
Snow shoeing - a little less risky than ice blocking, but really fun with the right girl. Again this is not for every girl!
Sledding - have hot chocolate or something warm after. The girl no matter how fun she was having will not enjoy it as much if she is wet and cold.
Decorate a house or apartment together with stuff you found at the DI or Walmart

Indoor/Outdoor:

Caroling (to family, friends, strangers, or nursing home which in most cases fits strangers :)
12 days of Christmas - extend-a-date usually for someone a little more serious but not a necessity.
Go see the lights - Either at temple square or go for a drive through neighborhoods that seem to be more festive.

Indoor:

Make ornaments - Snowmen (or women), Christmas trees, Santa Clause, etc
Decorate sugar cookies or gingerbread men (again or women...)
Origami - Go to the nearest bookstore and bring paper!
Paper snow flakes
PJs Christmas story reading and hot chocolate - personal favorites of mine have been "Polar Express" and "Twas the Night Before Christmas."
Make dinner - this is a classic date, but more entertaining then just watching a movie or going out to dinner.
Make a blanket fort and have an indoor picnic or movie. (Your dinner and a movie date with a twist. Thanks Bobby!)

You should check out his blog: EasterCloset.com.

Interested in writing for this blog? Contact me via email at: chupp22@gmail.com, or message me below!

Story Telling - Premeditated Car Wreck

2011-12-02T18:36:00.006-07:00

I received a call from my sister the other day and she made the comment of how she missed the posts when I didn't talk about dating. In addition to that the other day I was called a "Mommy Blogger." A mommy blogger according to Wikipedia is:

A Mommy Blog or Family-and-homemaking blog is a weblog which features commentary and discussions especially about home, family, and parenting. Appellations in media reports of "mom blog," "dad blog," "parenting blog" and "family blog" refer to blogs of this type. Businesses seek to run advertising for household items and children's merchandise on blogs of this type. The greater proportion of authors of blogs of this type are women...

You all can judge for yourself if I am a mommy blogger or not, but to grant my sisters wish I wanted to tell a story with this post.

I sat at work most of the day thinking of potential stories I could tell from my past:

Bad dates week
Creepy catholic cathedral assassin mission
Throwing newspapers at kids
BMXing it up on USU campus
EFY face attack
Premeditated car wreck
Beating up a 5th grader in kindergarten
Birthday party of 1
Mission president's wife's WOW problem
Old death cleaners
Shooting adrenaline
Punched in the face
Worst day ever

(Most of these titles are probably not what you would originally think...)

Premeditated car wreck - Twas the night before the wreck and all through the house not a thing was cleaned up and scurrying around was probably a mouse. Seriously though the apartment in which I was living was trashed (like it always was.) There were mounds of dishes in the sink and on the counters. Food residue everywhere, and wrappers and dishes throughout the living room. The entire place would and should have been deemed unlivable.

I was a bit under the weather and spent a good 3 - 4 hours cleaning the apartment. The kitchen was spotless the counters I could have probably used to prepare food. I could see the sink and the floor in the living room. It actually seemed like a place to which I could invite someone over.

It was 10:00 PM by the time I finished and I was feeling a little better with a clean apartment. I went to my room early and went to bed.

The next morning I woke up extremely late due to the fact that my roommate had unplugged my alarm clock so as to plug in his phone. Thank you #%&$#&! So at this point I am feeling sick and am running late for work. I walk out into the living room and it's trashed as if I hadn't cleaned a thing. The sink was completely full again as well. No breakfast, I felt sick, the apartment was trashed, and I was late for work!

I walked down and got in my car at this point a little less then excited about life. I drove to the one exit my apartment complex had at the time and was stuck behind a kid texting. (See diagram to the right for details)

For about 5 minutes I waited as well as the other cars blocking me in for this kid to go, but he didn't. With all the build up and frustration I bumped him...may have been a little more than a bump though.

He finally went and got out of his car, yelled at me a bit and tried to put it on the insurance. I decided against it and told him I would pay for his jeep's minimal damage. (His jeep had one scratch the size of a screw head. My entire bumper was pretty messed up.) He tried to get me to pay him $1,000 and I said _____.

I ended up settling on a lot lower number and wrote him a check right then and there because I told him if he didn't accept it, I would call the police and he would get a ticket as well. I had 1 other driver to back me up on it. haha So that is the story of the only wreck I have been in.

Interested to hear some of the other stories, or have a story of your own please share below!

The World's View on Dating and Courtship

2011-11-28T16:13:00.007-07:00

The other day I received an email from a friend. In the email it talked about why nice guys will never finish. I will put the email in blue so it stands out. My commentary on it will be after the close of the email. I am posting this email in hopes to dispense of the world's view of dating and courtship. Sorry this is a long one but it's worth it! (Oh and before you judge me for posting, read my commentary on it.)

Tell me that you're not one of those guys who's still doing *THIS* with a woman...Making the single BIGGEST MISTAKE that 99% of men keep on making...

It's simply this:

PAYING A WOMAN'S WAY ON A DATE.

Now listen, I'm no psychic or mind-reader, but I can see this one clear as day:

Of course you're still paying for women on dates! It's so common-place and assumed to be the "right" thing to do that most guys usually don't even give it a second thought. That's why this URGENT TIP is aimed directly at *you*.

If you want to start succeeding with women, you need to STOP doing this, right NOW.

I know, I know... you think you're impressing a woman by paying her way. Scoring points. Doing the right thing.

But here's the shocking (and slightly counter- intuitive) fact:

PAYING A WOMAN'S WAY ON A DATE ACTUALLY *DECREASES* YOUR CHANCE OF SUCCESS WITH HER!!!

Stay with me, since the reasons for all this can sound as misleading as they are simple. For our purposes, I want you to consider "traditional dinner dates" to be a thing of the past.

History:

As far as we're concerned, they're now officially EXTINCT.

Why?

Because when you ask a woman out and then pay for the date, you're making her think of you in THE COMPLETELY WRONG WAY. Pretty profound, I know. But please, hold the applause.

Let me explain this a little more...

A lot of good research suggests that women think men, who are potential mates, fall into one of two categories. I call these categories "Lover" and "Provider".

The basic idea goes like this:

In a "traditional" boy-meets-girl situation, the girl makes a decision almost INSTANTLY on whether you're:

#1) A LOVER -- the type of guy that she wants to get physically involved with because he gives off the right "signals."

Or:

#2) A PROVIDER -- the "nice guy" type (also known as a just a "FRIEND") who will constantly try to "prove" himself by paying for lots of expensive dates, buying her gifts and flowers, etc.

So ask yourself this, and be BRUTALLY HONEST:

Which type are YOU?

If you're a Type #1, there's nothing you need to learn here. Women are dragging you back to the bedroom almost every night, so congrats. Go get ready for all the fun you're going to have tonight.

But if you're a confirmed Type #2, then read on... I'm going to tell you what you can do to start turning this sinking ship around RIGHT NOW.

Let's start here:

I realize this may be generalizing a bit... but I'm making a point, so go with me. A very common approach that "Type #2" men like to use is the old "Can I take you out sometime?" line.

And, at first glance, it sounds innocent enough. It has the ring of "I'm a nice guy, and I'd like to take you to dinner so I have a chance to get to know you better" to it, right?

Well, it may seem that way at first glance, but let's get a little deeper into what ELSE you're communicating when you ask a question like this one (or start off by paying for dinner, etc.)...

1) You're starting off the relationship RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING by offering to buy something for her... and more importantly YOU'RE SETTING AN EXPECTATION. In other words, when you do this, you're setting an expectation that you're going to do this from NOW ON.

2) You're subtly saying, "I feel like I need to use a bribe to get you to see me again". I'm sure that men have been bribing women with food and gifts since the dawn of our species. Does this sound far-fetched to you? Check out how our closest relatives... the chimps use food to persuade females to have sex with them.

No, really.

3) Once you "take a woman out" and prove to her beyond the shadow of a doubt that you like to pay for things, you set a whole series of other subconscious expectations in place. Without going into detail, most of these other expectations will only lead her thinking of you in the "nice guy" category, and costing you time and money that you might as well have thrown down a rat hole.

4) By going out to a typical nice restaurant setting, you start a whole chain of events that often leads to two people looking at each other over a candle, in a loud room full of other people, with a typically uncomfortable "OK, so tell me about yourself and don't ask me too many personal questions please" look on your faces.

I don't know about you, but this just isn't my idea of a good time. So, what's the alternative?

Thought you'd never ask. Success with women is about becoming the type of man that NATURALLY attracts them. Becoming the type of man who sends signals of power, confidence, and masculinity. The kind of cool, charismatic guy that other men want to emulate and women LOVE to be seen with.

Of course, there's a lot that goes into eliminating all the "uncool" baggage and habits that guys carry around like man-purses, usually without even realizing it...The inner "wussy" that sabotages your success with women can be sneaky. In fact, sometimes it's hard to recognize even when it's staring straight back at you from the mirror.

If you want to learn more about obliterating your rampaging, game-killing inner wuss, I recommend stepping off here and taking a look at this:

DoubleYourDates.com/OnBeingAMan

In the meantime...

So what's the fastest path to becoming the kind of man women not only feel attracted to, but couldn't resist if they tried?

As I said earlier... a great place to start is NOT ASKING WOMEN "OUT" at all ANYMORE, and I mean NEVER AGAIN.

Instead, just say, "Do you have email?" If she does, hand her a pen and say, "Great, write it down for me." Then, follow up by inviting her to join you for a cup of tea and some stimulating conversation. Here's an example email for you:

"Hi, it was fun talking yesterday... I'm thinking that we should get together tomorrow for a cup of tea and some stimulating conversation. You seem like you might make a nice friend."

Then, if you're REALLY cheap, show up 5 minutes late so she buys her own tea and is waiting for you. You can even say, "How inconsiderate of you... where's mine?"

Basically, here's the key:

You have to STOP ACTING LIKE OTHER GUYS. You have to STOP TRYING TO BUY HER ATTENTION.

First off, that means no more meals on you. No more gifts. If you want her to feel a powerful, subconscious attraction for you, you need to set yourself apart in "manly" ways that aren't perceived by a woman as weak, catering or fawning.

You need to create a personal connection the instant you meet her. You need to show her you aren't nervous or intimidated or kissing butt. You have to develop communication skills that trigger intense biological responses in her that she couldn't overlook or ignore even if she wanted to. The single most important technique for accomplishing ALL OF THIS is so simple, obvious, and 100% COST-FREE that I feel like I just want to scream it from the rooftop.

But since I'm pecking at a laptop, I'll just type it like this:

***LEARN TO MAKE HER LAUGH***

Sounds obvious... but we all know that in the heat of battle, it's the hardest thing to do without coming off sounding incredibly lame. When the opportunity presents itself, will you step up with an exquisitely timed wise-crack that makes her sit up and take notice?

Will you know how to tease her so she thinks "No man's ever talked to me like that before, and I think I like it!" instead of thinking "What an *******!" Master this and you've mastered what I call "Cocky Comedy," AKA the "Universal Tool for Attracting Women." For way too many reasons to go into here, I can tell you it's by far the most POWERFUL TOOL you can use to set yourself apart from other guys.

If you want to learn more about it (and I highly recommend that you do) take a look at this:

DoubleYourDates.com/CockyComedy/

As you can probably tell, I've spent a lot of years figuring out how to become the kind of guy that women want to be around. I've spent a lot of time watching guys who are what you might call "Naturals" with women.

COMMENTARY:

I am writing about this email because this is the way the world is going right now. Chivalry is dying for two reasons.

Girls -
Guys - Guys see this method of treating girls work better than the alternative so they keep doing it. I will admit on more than 1 occasion I have thought about becoming a tool/jerk because it seems more successful.

(I left the first reason blank because, it leaves a girl up to her imagination and she can come up with a lot better reasons then I would come up with. Plus it makes her/you look inward at her/your own life to see what she/you are doing to kill chivalry.) Enjoy that one :)

I had a conversation with a young lady today and she proved the first point (Girls...). She got scared because a guy was treating her with respect and she didn't have to chase or work hard to make her relationship work. She actually felt like pushing him away. I sat with my mouth wide open not being able to believe my ears! Good thing it was over the phone, otherwise that could have been a bit awkward.

What I realize or remember when I think about trying this stupid method and after reading this email, was that I don't have to act like a tool to attract a girl. You don't either, so don't do it! Trust in God and all will work out in his time frame. Don't lower your standards or give into toolery. If you do I may have to punch you in the face, but then again I am too nice to do that so God will. And He can hit harder than I can.

You are on one side of the fence or the other. Tell me what you think!

Click here for part 2

The Chasing Game - More Dangerous Then the Most Dangerous Game

2011-11-23T09:26:00.004-07:00

When I was younger probably about the 2nd grade. everyone at recess would play "The Chasing Game." We were 2nd graders so our games were fairly simple. Yes we had imaginations, but I grew up in Missouri so a rock could have been 1000 things!

This game that I referred to was as simple as if you are a boy, chase a girl that you like. The girl that you liked was usually in a herd or pack, and it became like driving cattle. No I am not referring to the girls as being actual cows I was just referring to the similarities between cowboys driving cattle and us chasing the girls.

As it turns out I didn't like the game and most of the time it didn't seem like the girls did either. I took it upon my self to chase after the guys chasing the girls and once I got my hands on them I would tackle them and punch them in the face telling them to stop. Well it worked because by the end of the year, "The Chasing Game" was done for.

Most of the kids at that point would sit in the pine trees and make out or go in an abandoned dog house and umm...no clue really what happened there.

There are times in my life when I have epiphanies and this morning was one of them. This story popped into my head and I realized why I hate the chase. I hate it because it is stupid, but at the same time with out the chase there is no prey.

Well I don't believe that to be 100% true. I think I would just find the home of whatever I was hunting sit down in the animals spot and as soon as it comes in "BANG." Game over lights out. Chase? Who needs it?!

As far as hunting is concerned that sounds like a good way to do it, but with what I am really referring to it doesn't work at all.

On the play ground those girls were never interested in me. They would thank me for saving them, then go kiss those boys in the trees, leaving me standing there blinking scratching my head wondering what just happened.

A 2nd grade girl is no different then a 25 or even 50 year old girl. Yes the maturity is different, but not much more.

Have I learned this yet? Nope sure haven't!

When I returned from my mission I moved out to Utah and would go fishing with a net. I'd put my net down and everything (and more) would come up in the net. Now I fish and throw my line in with the most attractive and alluring bait and fish swim up to it and hit the bait out of the water.

Well this time I might just keep the bait out of the water and go swimming!

I don't expect anyone to understand this post, but if you do more power to you. I love to write. It's one of my releases. Another is sports but I had a game last night and didn't do so great. I beat all the defenders, the goalie came out of the box and I shot it between his legs only to have the ball stop 1/2 a foot short of the goal.

I have a choice just as every guy in my situation does. Adapt or Quit because what I am doing isn't working. GAME ON! Bobby, I think I might just jump back into Toolery because right now it doesn't seem like nice guys finish!

Have an opinion? Share it below!

Advice - Take it with a Grain of Sand

2011-11-21T23:10:00.001-07:00

(I finally hit 49 followers on my blog, which means only 15 Followers to go before I give away a beanbag chair!!!)

This morning when I woke up I was a bit out of it, which has sort of become a normal thing for me as of late. The last month or so I have only gone to bed earlier then 12:00 1 time, so when I get up in the morning I am less than refreshed.

The reason for staying up late has remained the same for the most part, females and dating. Seeing as we are on the topic of things that cause head aches let me mention a 4th - Advice. :)

Advice is a tricky thing, and doesn't work on every situation. 1 Day something could work and the next day you fall flat on your face. What I have learned from all the advice giving and more importantly advice receiving is that advice is just that, advice. (Definition - guidance or recommendations concerning prudent future action, typically given by someone regarded as knowledgeable or authoritative.)

Growing up like every one I received advice on what I should and shouldn't do, who I should and shouldn't talk to, how I should and shouldn't talk, react etc. With every piece of advice I would internalize it weigh it and see if it had any validity.

If it did even in the slightest I would work on improving that part of myself. I don't know where I got the spirit to do that but the advice of others is how I have been shaped today.

I reach this point and at first didn't really know where to go next with this post other than "Take it with a grain of sand" but then it occurred to me.

The only advice we should be taking is the advice that comes from our Heavenly Father. That advice may come through others but if it lightens and enriches the soul it's of God.

I had an interesting opportunity tonight, on which I won't elaborate, but it strengthened my testimony of God's love and the gospel. My trust and faith, although this experience was from most angles less than positive, has been enriched and more firm then it was before. Surprisingly my hope in the future was strengthened as well.

No matter the situation or experience there is no reason to curse God or doubt Him. He knows all things and will lift you in your times of trial if ye seek him!

Footprints In the Sand:
One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the LORD.

Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the LORD.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand.

He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.

He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questioned the LORD about it:

"LORD, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when
I needed you most you would leave me."

The LORD replied:

"My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering,
when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

Friday's 5 things I'm Grateful For

2011-11-18T19:01:00.002-07:00

I got away from doing this for a while, and am getting back to it. This morning there were a few things in particular for which I was grateful.

Today my Friday's 5 Things I'm Grateful For are:

Friends - The last several days, I have been even more grateful for my friends. Just like family they are there when you need them no matter the situation. Were it not for them this week would have been really rough but turned out great!
Classic Music - Not to be confused with classical music (although I like it as well.) On my way to work I put in a CD I haven't listened to in a long time Third Eye Blind - Blue. Almost every song is on the CD just makes me smile from ear to ear!
My job - Monday - Friday I get to talk to clients from all over the country. I hear about their lives and do my best to help them improve their lives and financial situations. Not all of them appreciate it but most do. In addition to that they help me improve my accents, because I hear them all the time. I get every kind of accent you can think of: Australian, English, Jamaican, Southern, Hawaiian, Irish, South African, Cajun, and Smoker-ian. I have gotten pretty good at the majority of them and sometimes slip into them.

American Burgers - I went to Sonic and ate the Super Sonic Bacon Double Cheeseburger...2 to be exact. Awesome greasy goodness.
Training - Every day at work I have an hour in which to train and prepare trainings. It allows me to keep up on my marketing skills and improve my business.

That is what I am grateful for, what are you grateful for? Share Below:

Weather the Storm

2011-11-16T16:11:00.005-07:00

Lesson Learned

Monday was another one of those lesson learning days. Luckily it only took 1 day to learn it...hopefully! It was probably one of the worst days I have had in a long while, and the reason seemed to be my own fault.

As I was reading through the scriptures, I came to chapter 4 of Helaman. 3 verses stuck out the most and this is what I learned:

Now this great loss of the Nephites, and the great slaughter which was among them, would not have happened had it not been for their wickedness and their abomination which was among them; yea, and it was among those also who professed to belong to the church of God. And it was because of the pride of their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, yea, it was because of their oppression to the poor, withholding their food from the hungry, withholding their clothing from the naked, and smiting their humble brethren upon the cheek, making a mock of that which was sacred, denying the spirit of prophecy and of revelation, murdering, plundering, lying, stealing, committing adultery, rising up in great contentions, and deserting away into the land of Nephi, among the Lamanites And because of this their great wickedness, and their boastings in their own strength, they were left in their own strength; therefore they did not prosper, but were afflicted and smitten, and driven before the Lamanites, until they had lost possession of almost all their lands.

Beating himself up :)

A lot of times people beat themselves up thinking this is the only reason why one could be left to what seems like their own strength. My lesson was to learn that isn't the case!

As most of us know God allows us to be tempted and tried in the times where we feel we need strengthening the most. The reason we need strengthening the most in those times is because God allows us to be let lose to see where we will turn. If we turn back to him he will allow us a few steps into the dark then bless us with greater understanding and vision.

I just went through that! It's not fun, but if you keep perspective and seek his guidance continually, he will never leave us completely alone. Also if you need a complement, come talk to me and I will do my best to help lift your spirits! After all that is what we have covenanted to do as members of our heavenly family.

This morning I sat down and jotted down a verse or two:

Weathering the Storm:
That looming feeling still hangs above my head, as a storm seeking to engulf me.
How do you fight against something untouchable, something unalterable?
The weather comes as it pleases, but that doesn't stop people from going about their day.
Rain comes drink it up. Wind comes fly a kite. Storms come but what am I to do but weather them?
Can I command them to leave or must I allow them to stay?
Where in the storm comes growth? It comes only if I seek it.
Mine eyes were open but with the storm came loss of vision.
It is said with loss of vision, we may walk by faith.
Well I am walking even if very cautiously; feeling the steps before me as if blind.
Hoping I find the switch to the sun to illuminate all things once more.
But with any storm it will last how ever long it will, then move on with little to no warning.
Move on storm.

Why Mosquitoes Buzz In People's Ears

2011-11-10T15:08:00.002-07:00

Fort Osage Indians

In high school I participated in competitive acting or forensics as we called it. Before you judge me:

Potential things I could have been judged on:

Yes, I was in theater but I was also in sports, choir, art, mentoring, ballet, scouts, and a few other things.
No, I wasn't a nerd or a "theater person"
What is Comp Acting? It is exactly what it sounds like.

There were several areas in which you could compete. Some of my favorite were:

Improv - Probably also most well known
Story Telling- My favorite
Prose - (Dramatic or Comedic) Memorize 7 - 10 min monologues

I bring this information up because it transitions well into what I was wanting to blog about today. As I said story telling was my favorite, and I wanted to share a story today from one of the books I used to compete.

Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears

One Morning a mosquito saw an iguana drinking at a waterhole. The mosquito said, "Iguana, you will never believe what I saw yesterday."

The mosquito said, "I saw a farmer digging yams that were almost as big as I am."

"What's a mosquito compared to a yam?" snapped the iguana grumpily. "I would rather be deaf than listen to such nonsense!"

Then he stuck two sticks in his ears and went off, mek, mek, mek, through the reeds.

The iguana walks off and runs across a snake. The snake tries to talk to the iguana, but because of the sticks the iguana ignores him. The snake thinks the iguana is plotting against him and the story continues to escalate with every new animal that is introduced until the point where someone dies, (Somebody always has to die if it's to be a good kids book!) and the Sun decides not to rise.

Now what is to be learned from this story?

The mosquito, shares a rumor or untruth, and the more it spreads the worse it becomes until somebody gets shot! Ok so no one was shot but you get the point.

Don't spread rumors. Crush them as soon as you hear them. If you absolutely have to know the truth or it effects you, talk to the other parties involved.

I know I don't like having people spread that I punched a baby, when I really didn't; and I don't think you would want any rumors spread about you either. So do unto other as you would have them do unto you.

Oh and P.S. I heard my first Christmas song on the radio today...too early! I want to hear thanksgiving music!

Sorry, I Didn't Get My Fix!

2011-11-08T17:47:00.001-07:00

I wanted to keep writing after that last post, because I really didn't feel like I got my fix in what was said. I don't know why I love writing, or why I even keep this blog up besides the fact that I enjoy it.

That aside: "How are you doing today?" Is a question with which I start almost every conversation as of late. After the person gives their generic response "Ok, Good, or Great", I then follow up my previous question with "Why?"

I was asked why I do that the other day, and my response was because I actually care. I am starting to wonder if caring is going completely out of style. Is it really that hard to take the extra 2 minutes and hear about someone's day or are we in too much of a hurry to go sit at home or get where we are going?

Last night I went and got ice cream with 2 friends who happen to be female. I went out of my way to open their doors, and their response to it was sort of startling. They were appreciative of it! Go figure, treating a girl with respect as we should be doing actually gets you respect in return.

Another friend was dealing with a rough day, and I sincerely complemented them because I have been there and I know those days aren't the most fun. The person smiled and seemed to at least be leading a better day after that. Is it really that hard to life or build someone up, or does it build us up if we cut them down?

Now I know I am not the perfect example of this, but I'm trying and that is all anyone can expect of anyone else.

In addition to setting a goal to give away a Mojosac, I am seeking to see where else I can improve my life. We do that by goal setting.

We set goals for graduation, goals for a car, a house, or a spouse, even to saving up for a new pet mouse!

Ok so maybe not the last one but goal setting is important. Something I think that trumps the importance of reaching a goal is the process or the working towards the goal. It's the little things I previously mentioned that are even more important then finally achieving the goal.

An example of this is someone wanting to be rich, and they end up winning the lottery. The moment they win the lottery though they start spending money on everything they have always wanted. Within 5 years they are broke again. Why does this happen?

It happens because they didn't become the person who could sustain the goal. They put all their effort into winning the lottery and none into planning, enjoying life, or appreciating what they have.

Let us find joy in the journey, build others up, and become the person who could sustain the end result!

P.S. Only 22 followers left for the first Beanbag give away!

New Goal to Give Away the Mojosac BeanBag Chair

2011-11-08T13:44:00.002-07:00

I recently ran a competition on my blog, but didn't reach the goal I set of 100 followers. You probably all know this because I would think the only people that read this are those following this blog, and you the closet reader.

Well closet reader, regular followers, and anyone else on the site. I have been asked by a lot of you to just give you the Mojosac bean bag chair from that competition. I am going to...give one of you a mojosac. I really wanted to give one out before, but I can't pull myself around to just giving one away without reaching some goal.

My new ongoing continuous goal is:
As soon as I receive 64 followers someone is getting a bean bag chair. I am really anxious to give one out as well, so tell someone and have them follow the blog. Right now there are 41 followers to my blog. For those unable to do simple math that is an added 24. The next 24 people will be entered to win a bean bag chair. It's as simple as that. Once I receive those 64 then the next time I will give one out is at 128, and so on so forth.

Below I have placed how I am going to do the bracket, just in case you are interested. It took me like 20 minutes to do that spreadsheet.

The Unnamed Verses

2011-11-06T15:15:00.001-07:00

Today I would like to do something different from the Norm of this blog. The "norm" for this blog is sort of a loose usage of the term, for norm of this blog is not norm or regular in any way. Each post seems to have it's own uniqueness, and I hope some one as always is able to pull something from the text of this post.

Today I would like to share a poem, that I am about to write:

Future:
I sit alone in an empty room and contemplate the eternities,
As I do my mind is carried away to the end of all things.

I stand before my maker dressed in white and flowing attire.
He beckons to me and my wife to come forward.
We kneel before him and are crowned with righteousness and glory.
We have received our reward for diligence, patience, and love in this life.
He is pleased with the decisions we've made and sends us to create our own worlds without number.

Past:
My heart swells with in me and I come back down to earth
Dressed clean but not as the dream.
My heart burned as I caught glimpses of my desires.
I remember actively working towards that goal and having it occupy my thoughts and wishes.
That time is passed, my hope as a candle went out.
My heart heavy being smothered under a dense blanket of fog.
Have my dreams gone colorless and cold?

Present:
The spirit awakens even the most tired.
I shake off the ice as the warmth flows back in.
I can feel again, something I haven't been able to do for a long time.
My heart pounds and I stretch and clear the sleep from my eyes.
I rip off the chains and throw them in the deep.
It's time to get up and run.
Run faster than I ever have before!

Have I Done Any Good In the World Today?

2011-11-03T13:21:00.002-06:00

Have I done any good in the world today?
Have I helped anyone in need?
Have I cheered up the sad and made someone feel glad?
If not, I have failed indeed.
Has anyone’s burden been lighter today
Because I was willing to share?
Have the sick and the weary been helped on their way?
When they needed my help was I there?
Then wake up and do something more
Than dream of your mansion above.
Doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure,
A blessing of duty and love.

This song was blaring in my head this morning when I woke up. It is significant to me because I made this one of my goals about 3 years ago. (The exact goal was more along the lines of: Jacob 2:18-19)

With a world growing more cruel, hurtful, wicked, and cold every day we need to be kinder, more loving, and service minded. ("We" includes myself.)

To continue this lesson I received this morning, I read Helaman Chapter 2. (Helaman is a book written by the prophet Helaman in the Book of Mormon) The synopsis of this chapter can be found in this verse:

And behold, in the end of this book ye shall see that this Gadianton did prove the overthrow, yea, almost the entire destruction of the people of Nephi.

Gadianton started a secret combination, or mob/gang as we would call it today, of people who would murder and steal to gain political power or influence. My thought after reading this chapter was: How could one man do so much evil, or have so much influence for evil in the lives of hundreds of thousands of people?

It sickened me a bit, then I had a second thought. If one could influence so many to become like him seeking only for oneself, then one could influence even more to do good and seek to help others.

My new or rather recommitted goal is to do just that. I would like to challenge others to do the same. How do you treat others? How could you improve your dealings with your fellow man/woman? and most important ask: Have you done any good in the world today?

In God We Trust!

2011-11-01T18:45:00.003-06:00

As most of you can tell, I didn't get the 100 followers I was looking for; and therefore won't be giving away a bean bag chair this time. I bring this up, and want to make a quick transition to something I found incredibly disturbing.

After work today, I was walking into the building I live in and on the television was:

House to Vote on "In God We Trust" Motto

Here is a clip from some of the information I found on the vote:

While the issue may seem non-controversial, the bill to reaffirm the motto may not pass because Democrats say the vote is a waste of time, and today's "fast-track" vote will require the approval of two-thirds of the House. The bill's Republican sponsor says it is needed to stop a "disturbing trend" of dismissing the motto.

Today's House vote will "directly confront a disturbing trend of inaccuracies and omissions, misunderstandings of church and state, rogue court challenges, and efforts to remove God from the public domain by unelected bureaucrats," Rep. J. Randy Forbes, R-Va., said in a statement. "As our nation faces challenging times, it is appropriate for Members of Congress and our nation--like our predecessors--to firmly declare our trust in God, believing that it will sustain us for generations to come."

As evidence of this "disturbing trend," Forbes pointed to the fact that in a 2010 speech in Indonesia, President Obama called the phrase "E pluribus unum" the nation's motto. He also pointed to the dispute over the use of the phrase "in God we trust" in the relatively new visitors center at the Capitol Building.

Now I have hitherto tried to keep politics from this blog, but this honestly...(Censored)! You are taking away our rights to religion! You took away our right to pray in schools because some kids didn't want to participate, you took away the pledge of allegiance to our country, now you are trying to take away our foundation for which this country was built?!

You say, you're forcing religion upon us and our family by praying in schools. CLOSE YOUR EARS WHEN WE PRAY! You say, I don't want to be forced to recite the pledge of allegiance. MOVE OUT OF THE COUNTRY IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH WHAT IS SAID! Now you want to take God out of our motto?

Let me fill you in on something. God is the ONLY being who will support you. The moment we reject him is the moment we are left to our own strength. To add to this let me fill you in on something else, whether you believe it or not, God exists. He created you, and this earth, and helped found this country!

Denying him as our founder is like kicking your mother (the one who brought you into this life, and supported and loved you) in the face as she is bent over to tie your shoes.

Alma 30:60 - And thus we see the end of him who perverteth the ways of the Lord; and thus we see that the devil will not support his children at the last day, but doth speedily drag them down to hell.

Now back to the vote being put forth today. Up to this point 7 democrats voted against reaffirmation of our motto and 1 republican. I say get them out of office.

I am not trying with this post to put down democrats or republicans, because I vote for the person who I think will do the best job in office, and don't promote one of the other. This has got to stop!

Please voice your opinion whether for or against having the "In God We Trust" as our Motto.

Backstabbing, Girls, and Lowering the Bar!

2011-10-28T15:12:00.005-06:00

I have a lot to talk about today!

Last night I went to bed around 1:00, and for some odd reason couldn't sleep past 5:30 am w/o waking up to look at the clock every 30 seconds to see if it was time to get up. I had a few ideas firing through my head that I had to get down on paper!

I'd like to title: Backstabbing and The Guys Code of Ethics
Girls - When should I be straightforward, or Lead Him On?
I lowered the bar! If I can get double the followers from today until Monday night I'll give away a beanbag chair! (Because it didn't look like I was going to hit 100)

So as most of you may know at this point I broke off my streak of strike, strike on dating that is. (or rather from dating.) The strike lasted a mere 6 weeks, but was ridiculously refreshing!

After dating as long and as much as I have I just want to mention the unspoken "Guys Code of Ethics." This is similar to "Parlay" in the fact that if a guy you are friends with tells you he likes a girl you don't even flirt with the girl because that is messed up. Unlike parlay though, I would argue that this is a cold hard rule not just a guideline. (Passing thought...moving on.)

I was reading through one of my good friends blogs a few days ago and I realized that people really are clueless on the opposite sex! I didn't think it was that hard to read certain things, at least for others, thanks to my Mother, Sisters, and Sister-in-laws' influence.

Girls: Be straightforward and honest with nice guys, don't lead them on. They hate it and obviously don't play the game otherwise they would be mean to you and ignore you. If it is a tool, then lead him on be flirtatious with him and others, but play hard to get. It is as simple as that. Either a guy will play hard to get or he won't you can tell what kind of guy he is from that. (Note to females: Don't mistake ignoring as he is playing hard to get. First see what type of guy he is, and if he is a tool...really? Why are you even pursuing him?)

And again the last thought of the day! I want to give away a bean bag chair, but I don't want to do it just because. I have lowered the bar. If I can get 34 more followers to my blog someone will be receiving a bean bag chair. What does that mean for you? You don't even have to comment any more just tell your friends and roommates to follow the blog and you and them will be entered to win. Any questions? Ask, but the due date is still Monday night!

(Condensed version of rules - Follow the blog and tell your friends. That's it!)

I'm Chris Hupp, and I'm A Mormon!

2011-10-26T23:21:00.005-06:00

I was challenged a while ago to set up a Mormon.org profile, so I did. When I went to edit my profile it took a little while to get it republished, but here it is: Chris Hupp

Brief Opening:
I studied Landscape Architecture at Utah State University, but because no one seems to be building much I do Internet Marketing for the time being. I enjoy both, but Landscape Architecture has been my dream since I was 7.

I am 25 and still single! My parents and family remind me of that every time I talk to them. I love to write and entertain so I started a blog to sort of get what I like to call my normal life out there. I use it as sort of a semi sedated venting session as well as a way to hopefully reform the way guys treat girls now a days. Read More...

On a side note, I have been running a competition for a free bean bag chair. I am at 32 followers on this blog, and to enter to win a free bean bag chair of your own read the following rules:

(Condensed version - Follow the blog and post a valid comment. Click here for the full contest rules.)

Click here to create your own Mormon.org profile!

The Iron Rod - Used for More Than Just Hitting People!

2011-10-24T18:10:00.018-06:00

For a while all my posts seemed like religious posts, then it transitioned over to dating. I think it might be moving back to the topic of religion. Mainly because the last 6 weeks I was on strike from dating. I took enough heat from the bishopric that I will start dating again though. In fact I have a date set for Saturday!

Back to the point of the blog post. Just because it will be covering religion doesn't mean that there will be no application to you, because there is.

Today at church as usual I spent a decent amount of time in meetings. The first meeting I was able to attend was Bishopric Meeting.

(Bishopric Meeting is comprised of three volunteer church members selected by a Stake President to serve as the main leadership of the ward, a bishop and his first and second councilor. Also in attendance in this meeting is a ward clerk who makes sure the logistical affairs are taken care of and me the executive secretary.)

This meeting starts with a prayer and a spiritual thought. Today's thought was given by our Bishop. Before I go into greater detail of his lesson I will need to give a little background on the scripture he shared. It is a dream that the prophet Lehi saw, and he describes the dream in first person about himself and family. The great and spacious building is interpreted as the pride of the world or in plain English those who are criticizing those trying to do what is right.

He had us open to 1 Nephi 8:33-34 (30-36) -

And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building. And after they did enter into that building they did point the finger of scorn at me and those that were partaking of the fruit also; but we heeded them not. These are the words of my father: For as many as heeded them, had fallen away.

He then gave us the definition of heed - close and careful attention; notice. He then reread this scripture focusing on the word heed. "For as many as heeded them," (those in the great and spacious building) "had fallen away."

When he began to apply this to us, I realized that part of my problem or reason for being negative is because I was giving heed at least in part to those in the great and spacious building (those criticizing me and others for doing good, and comparing their "fun" to my sometimes lack thereof.) This life really isn't about having fun, it's about our eternal progression. The more we give heed to those not on the path the further we get from the path.

The lesson learned today is to focus on Christ our savior and "Hold to the Rod, the Iron Rod!" (The Iron rod is the word and teachings of God.)

Need to Waste time? Check Out These Fun Sites!

2011-10-20T17:44:00.004-06:00

Crap I screwed up! I failed, game over, lights out!

On my way home from work today, I realized what I said the other day on my blog may have destroyed my future!

How did I screw up?

I screwed up by comparing myself to Bruce Wayne. An extravagant bachelor who doesn't end up with the girl. He is a nice guy who helps other people and ends up pushing away the people he love most (besides Alfred of course.)

Did I seal my own fate?

This may sound a bit dramatic, but I got your attention right?

Now that I hope to have retained your attention, I get a little bored from time to time. I hope or rather am fairly sure I am not the only one. I work on computers all day long, and what better way to past the extra time then play or find random sites that could help me spend the time better.

Here are a few cool or fun sites I have come across:

CleverBot.com - Although a fun site it can get a bit annoying after a while though.
Dotty-Dots.Appspot.com - This came from one of the Google Logos, but still is really fun!
FailBlog.org - One man's failure is another man's boost! As sad as that sounds it's true with this site.
Pinterest.com - This one is mainly for females to sort of serve as an ideas page for all sorts of stuff.
Wikipedia.org - The information station of the internet! I spend way too much time on this site.
DearGirlsAboveMe.com - Haha even thinking about that site makes me laugh.
KSL.com - Looking for anything, find it on KSL.
MexicanJokes.net - Ok so I wasn't going to add this one, but was prompted to by several people. Although I don't agree with some of these jokes because of their intent to hurt, a lot are pretty funny. (I am not racist, I actually heard most of these from my Hispanic Sister-in-law.) Here is a sampling:
Q: What did the Mexican say when a house fell on him?
A: Get off me homes!
MathCats.com - This tells you how old you are in days, hours, minutes, and seconds. (I turn 10,000 days old in Aug 2013)
Pandora.com - This is a music site, but it's always a good one to have.
CandyStand.com - This used to be my favorite games site.
LineRider.com - This may or may not be the most fun site I have ever come across. It can be a huge waste of time but incredibly fun at the same time!
SodaPlay.com - If you have the mind for building or engineering or anything this is the site for you.

And of course last but not least I spend quite a bit of time on this site, which is slightly different in nature then the other's listed: LDS.org.

If you have sites you would like to add, comment below! If it's not appropriate I will delete it so don't waste your time! Thanks!

Free 3ft Mojosac Give Away!

2011-10-18T18:45:00.009-06:00

As most of you know I am an internet marketer, and like Bruce Wayne I have become sort of ridiculously extravagant.

Ok so I am not as extravagant as Batman, but ask anyone who really knows me and I am out there! My comments are off the wall, and I am painfully logical even if there is no logic to what I have to say.

I eat too much, and am too blunt. That part doesn't really matter much, but in keeping with this I wanted to do a give away, if I could get 100 + followers on my blog.

What am I going to give away?

Good question, as I said before I am an internet marketer and run a few websites. One of those sites I am affiliated with is Mojosac.com. (Pronunciation: Mō-jō-sak)

I have wanted to do a give away for a while now, and have decided to do it if you all could help me out. You will be included in the drawing for a free Mojosac in the color of your choice! (See color chart below)

Rules of this give away:

Competition for this 3ft Beanbag Chair starts today, and goes until October 31st!

Each follower will receive 1 (one) entry into the drawing for simply following this blog, and making 1 (one) comment on one of this blog's posts. (If the follower count reaches 100)
- The contestant must remain a follower throughout the duration of the competition to maintain eligibility, and the comment must be made during the competition's duration. (as well as on topic, appropriate, and preferably on another post.) (Now until Oct 31st.)
- Those after the 100th follower will also be entered into the drawing.
The deadline for entries is 11:59:59 pm, October 31, 2011. All followers after this time will not be eligible, but that won't effect how much I appreciate the follow!
ChrissNormalLife.blogspot.com retains the right to disqualify any contestant for violation of the rules of the competition as well as for any actions deemed by Me as inappropriate conduct.
- Example - entering multiple emails for one person, or creating dummy emails to set up a follow.
- Each follower will only receive 1 (one) entry.
The drawing will be held and the winner announced, one week following the close of the competition.
The drawing is for 1 (one) 3ft Mojo Sac Foam Filled Beanbag Chair. It does not include any of the other products on the MojoSac website.

(After receiving a few comments I realized I needed to clarify commenting. If I don't know who you are when you post it is going to make it difficult to add you into the competition. Anonymous, or unknown makes it difficult for me to know who you are! A first name with last initial will suffice.)

That's pretty much it! It's simple and straightforward. Have fun and I hope you enjoy the blog!
ChrissNormalLife.blogspot.com

Colors available:

Are You Kidding Me?!

2011-10-17T23:04:00.004-06:00

Tonight my eyes were opened to something I had either forgotten or never thought of before. It was so foreign a concept that it sort of took me back a bit. (And that is a hard thing to do!)

I was sitting in a car with 5 girls, and they got on the subject of dating. One of them in the car was dating a returned missionary, and as soon as she said that, the others said; "Oh so it's serious!"

Are you kidding me!? I didn't realize a returned missionary had "I am ready for marriage" stamped on him, whether he was or not.

Come to think of it, I do remember this crazy idea. I had just worked so hard to dispense the notion of 1st Date = Marriage!

Happy Valley thank you for the wake up call. I can now see that going on as many first dates as I did, either helped me shoot myself in the foot or I am a polygamist! Seeing as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (or Mormons, as some like to call us) don't practice polygamy it looks like I shot myself in the foot!

My dating strike couldn't have come at a more opportune time than now!

Note to the females of Utah Valley, and maybe single females world wide: Just because a guy (RM) asks you on a date doesn't mean he wants to marry you! I don't mean to be rude, but sometimes he isn't in to you he just wants to go on a date because it's fun.

I realize that is a crazy concept, and because of this curve ball concept I will probably even wait longer to ever date again!

Here's to saving money, headaches, time, and allowing a heart to heal! (Click here for the female perspective)

Guest Post - Note to All Girls and Nice Guys

2011-10-16T21:01:00.004-06:00

So I received this in an email, and it's become my first guest post! THIS IS INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT FOR THOSE MENTIONED IN THE TITLE!!!

The whole problem started in the beginning, with our first parents, Adam and Eve. Eve wanted what she could not have: the forbidden fruit. I propose that girls are still being beguiled by that same serpent that was in the beginning. Bishop G. S. Nelson once said “Girls think that nice guys are boring and safe.” He acquired this insight during his numerous interviews with girls that attended the BYU ward in which he served as bishop.

The Nice Guy. The guy who is nice, genuine, sincere, and kind. Some girls ask if this guy exists. I am here to tell you that he does. He is that guy that you turned down last week when he asked you out. Yes, that is right. Last week’s rejection fits that description, but why did you reject him? Nice guys are no mystery. They go out of their way to do nice things, compliment girls, and are therefore boring. That’s why nice guys finish last.

Girls. I would like you to stop and think for a second of a nice guy in your life that is always there for you but for some reason you cannot see him as a future companion. Then I want you to think of the way you talk to your friends about this person. Would you not say something to the effect of, “We are just friends; we could never be more than that”? The nice guy is the person you talk to when the mean guy rejects you. When you are not asked out on a date he is the person you call so that you are not alone. He is always there for you because he actually cares about you.

The “Friend Zone.” The nice guy enters into the “friend zone,” which is a zone that is impossibly hard to get out of. Once the nice guy tries to get out of the “friend zone” he becomes awkward and the relationship is never the same. But whose fault is it really? Some would say, “I do not find him attractive”, but I do not believe that to be true. It is not necessarily his appearance that makes him unattractive, it is the fact that he doesn’t play “the game”: there is no chase. Girls, it is just as shallow for you to go for the mysterious, funny, impossible guy, as it is for a guy to just go after looks. You are not unattracted to the nice guy, he just isn’t the mystery man you have imagined yourself dating. We all know the nice guy would treat you better than anyone else, but you still reject him.

The Next Best Thing. Girls fear that they can do better than what they already have, that they can get someone that is just a little better. They let this fear dictate what they do and who they date. Once girls have something, they need the next best thing. They are never satisfied. They think they need something new, something that is just out of reach. This fear that girls have causes them to go for the untouchable, the mean guy that does not want anything to do with them. When a girl pursues that kind of guy and gets rejected she says, “Why can’t I just date a nice guy?” She quickly forgets that just recently she rejected the nice guy who really did care about her. I believe that girls have an inherent quality that makes them honestly believe that if they can already get the guy, then they can get a better one, and that they deserve more.

Victims. An argument that girls often use is that they are victims of guys that take advantage of their emotions, just as the nice guys feel they are victims. Girls need to take into account which kinds of guys are victimizing them. If they would just think about it, they would realize that they are chasing the mean guys. The nice ones do not ever want to upset them, but since they do not go after the nice guy, they are just asking for trouble. Girls, almost all of your problems and issues would be resolved if you would just stop rejecting nice guys, and give them a chance.

Good Guys, This Is For You. You know you have been treated unfairly in the past, but please take the following information into account and use it the next time you think about asking a girl out. If the good guy finishes last, then that means only one thing: the mean guys finish first. This is because a girl likes a challenge, things that she cannot quite have. Girls know that nice guys are always available. When girls get lonely they know they can always rely on you being there for them. Nice guys, you appear desperate because you go out of your way to be a gentleman. Girls enjoy this game. The mean guy is mysterious… you never know what he will do next. He does not pay attention to the girls, and when he does, it is usually to make fun of them. For some reason girls love that. Everything he says is funny— not sincere or genuine, but funny.

Someone has to change, and there are two options.

1. Girls: Give the nice guy a legitimate chance. Stop being beguiled and have an open mind.

2. Guys: Become the mysteriously impossible guy the girls are looking for. Play the game better than they do.

Dating - A Useless Past Time

2011-10-13T07:59:00.016-06:00

I was thinking today about my past several months, and it boils down to this: Nice guy, but for some reason girls have been referring to me as a jerk. Maybe it's time for round 2. Round 2 of what you might ask, well round 2 of Tool week.

Despite being the nice guy most girls haven't even given me a first glance let alone a second one!

...Those were my thoughts to start the day, but they quickly changed after one of my client's ring tones I had or rather have the opportunity to listen to on Thursdays, when he doesn't pick up the phone.

His ring tone is: God Gave Me You! By Blake Shelton (Lyrics at the bottom)

Who does this refer to? No one, although I wish it referred to someone...almost anyone really.

This song triggered in me a PMA!

(Positive Mental Attitude) I would think up to this point most would agree on the "M" part of PMA, and my response would as always be: Ouch, but I can't argue, because it's of the devil.

How did I come to a conclusion like that from that song? I turned it to a religious figure, the most influential figure ever no matter your religion or belief! And that is Christ.

Christ was given us for the ups and downs, and from this I received my new outlook for the weeks/months/years to follow?

So what is it then?

Be positive no matter what and give up on dating, because it is possible to do both.

I give up on dating because it's a waste of my time. I might as well just use it serving others or doing something useful.

After I shared this outlook with a few others they responded by saying "If you quit dating I'm quitting dating."

Well sorry sisters but I may or may not have started a chain reaction that potentially killed dating at least in part in your area!

Throw stones, tomatoes, high heels, or whatever you'd like but I apologize in advance.

If you'd like to reverse this chain reaction then actually say yes when guys ask you out. Don't lead them on at all if you are not interested because that is what kills a guys desire to want to date!

That's what did it for me and countless others.

On a side mote just because a guy asks you on a date doesn't mean he is interested in marriage. To continue that thought if a guy says he is more interested in you that means he is more interested in you than all the other girls.

There is no need for alarm! Don't get freaked out and be weird "use your words" and talk about it. That's what my sister in law teaches her 3-7 year old children.

- That note was from a few friends of mine in similar situations.

God Gave Me You Lyrics:
(The bolded section is the only part I heard on the ring tone)
I’ve been a walking heartache
I’ve made a mess of me
The person that I’ve been lately
Ain’t who I wanna be

But you stay here right beside me
And watch as the storm blows through
And I need you

Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you
Gave me you

There’s more here than what we’re seeing
A divine conspiracy
That you, an angel lovely
Could somehow fall for me
You’ll always be love’s great martyr
And I’ll be the flattered fool
And I need you

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you

On my own I’m only
Half of what I could be
I can’t do without you
We are stitched together
And what love has tethered
I pray we never undo

Cause God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
And for when I think I lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you, gave me you.
He gave me you.

Hello, Is Anyone Out There?

2011-10-12T16:30:00.003-06:00

I'm back, and for the record Disneyland was awesome! I love that place, and spending time with family was great as well!

Being back and getting back into blogging has been difficult though. Why? well honestly I wonder if anyone even reads this anymore. If you do what do you think about it? The entire reason I even keep this blog up is to share something funny or entertaining to try and improve someone's day.

After a year and a half of writing, and a few months of working on getting people to comment I can still almost count the number of comments on my fingers and toes.

I do appreciate those who have commented on my previous posts, but I think I may throw in the towel and let the blog go.

Below is the petition to keep it going. Comment if you would actually like to see continuous posts, if not I will spend the hours of blogging time doing something else like reading...

Gone to Disneyland Be Back Soon!

2011-10-01T08:00:00.004-06:00

If you want me to bring you back something, speak now or forever hold your peace! You can do so by commenting below!

Normal Day? You be the judge, but its normal for me!

(Have a story to tell? Be a guest blogger on My Normal Life by emailing me one of your Crazy normal days! chupp22@gmail.com. The stories should be one of your crazy normal days or experiences, and I will accept links to your blogs/websites and things as long as they are appropriate.)

The Reoccuring Post - Friday's 5 things I'm Grateful For

2011-09-30T23:00:00.001-06:00

This is the part where this post becomes reoccurring. Last Friday was this post's creation date, and I am continuing from there.

Today my Friday's 5 Things I'm Grateful For are:

Fall weather - Today's weather was a little chilly with a light breeze. It was crisp and fresh! That is why I love fall weather and it made it into the things I am grateful for today. It's invigorating and energizing. It's football weather!

Longboard - Today on my way to work, the name Raj for my longboard popped into my head. Upon thinking about the name I expanded it to: Raj Ahbar Muhammad Bin Chris. Why? Good question! The board I own is a Black Taj Mahal board by Stella. I love the board, and seem to name everything I own. The names have to come to me though, and finally the board's did.

Free Bagel Friday - I have started the horrible habit of not eating breakfast, and barely eating lunch. This morning to keep up the habit I didn't eat breakfast again. When I arrived at work though they informed us that they brought in bagels for breakfast! Thank you bagel breakfast Friday!

Friday Meetings - Another thing I am thankful for on Fridays is our weekly meeting that allows us down time for about an half hour to an hour. This meeting usually discusses what we are doing well or on what things we need improvement. Today's meeting was mainly praise.

Utah State - Why am I grateful for Utah State? Well I love Utah State but more specifically I am grateful for their football program or rather the previous 20 + years. Why am I grateful for that? I am grateful for that because I didn't have any expectations of winning a football game, and if we did it was a bonus. Now it just hurts when we lose!

In efforts of improving Chris' Normal Life's community please comment below:

What are you grateful for today?

I Like You for You!

2011-09-29T18:35:00.009-06:00

The other day I was talking to someone in my ward about the random things in life and somehow my blog came up. Go figure... As we were discussing potential topics he mentioned how I should write a blog titled the Art of Chris H...

I almost gave away my identity there. That was a close one!

I responded to him that only arrogant people would write an entire post about themselves. That is sort of what this entire blog is based on...that and Mormon Culture, so here is my attempt at making another hopefully useful post.

There is no art to being me. I am smug internet marketer who loves sports, writing, reading, drawing, outdoors, dancing, music, serving and dating. I am the runt of my family seeing as my brothers are both at least 1/2 a foot taller then me. I was hit with the short stick, and my misshapen jaw shows the after math of that hit. (TMJ or Temporomandibular joint disorder - where one side of your jaw grows faster then the other.)

I actually thought about getting surgery to fix my jaw, but decided against it. I also thought about surgery for my height but, sadly there is no surgery to fix that. To add to that wonderful disorder and being vertically challenged, I grew up with dyslexia.

My entire life I have been plagued with weaknesses or deficiencies, and have been working as hard as I can to make up for those deficiencies with which I was blessed. Honestly they are a part of me. They are the real me! With out those "deficiencies" I wouldn't be me, or be gifted in the areas I am. Without your "deficiencies" you wouldn't be you, and I like you for you!

Be comfortable in your own skin, there is and was a reason you were given the features you were. Be proud of them! They remind you of the countless relatives that have gone before you to shape the person you are today. If there is something you don't like about yourself get over it!

You aren't fat, you aren't ugly, you aren't stupid, and you're not a freak! Don't be bulimic, anorexic, or any other ic. Just be you!

Normal Day? You be the judge, but its normal for me!

(Have a story to tell? Be a guest blogger on My Normal Life by emailing me one of your Crazy normal days! chupp22@gmail.com. The stories should be one of your crazy normal days or experiences, and I will accept links to your blogs/websites and things as long as they are appropriate.)

The Not So EMO Post...

2011-09-28T20:04:00.002-06:00

For some time, as most of you know, I have been dating a ton. And as most of you may have had to hear from me I have been less then successful.

Last night I went to one of my soccer games at the Indoor Soccer Arena and had two opportunities to score. One was a header that went right at the goalie, and the other a quick pass and shot that was deflected by the goalie. Although both ended in a goal made for another player I have yet to score this season. (P.S. We won the game 11-5, and I had a highlight reel tackle. Yeah I know it's soccer but it was clean!)

After the game one of my good friends on the team said to me: "Dude, you are just unlucky with your timing!"

I take high percentage shots, and although I am getting better I keep missing by the smallest degree. The times the goals have gone in, they have been called back due to ridiculous circumstances. Unlucky is becoming more and more an understatement!

Now you may be asking this question in your head: "Chris, you started out talking about dating, and are now talking about soccer, WTB?" (What The Bleen?)

Here is my attempt to link the two. I am unlucky in both, and my timing doesn't seem to be working either. I go after the girls I am really attracted to, and get shot down every time. Either she already has a boyfriend or I just get unlucky breaks it never seems to work out.

No one ever seems to have any other explanation for what keeps happening in both besides: "Dude, you are just unlucky with your timing."

I know I am not alone in feeling this way because I have sort of become the "Hitch" figure around the apartment complex. I help others in their situations, and they seem to work out exactly the way I tell them it will. I think it's my turn to find a "Hitch" to explain my situation!

Honestly, I thought this post was going to be a lot more emo than this but surprisingly it's not too bad.

Here is my call for help: After reading the above, what do you think I should try? Please Comment Below! (In either soccer or dating)

Normal Day? You be the judge, but its normal for me!

(Have a story to tell? Be a guest blogger on My Normal Life by emailing me one of your Crazy normal days! chupp22@gmail.com. The stories should be one of your crazy normal days or experiences, and I will accept links to your blogs/websites and things as long as they are appropriate.)

BYU - Fads, Followers, and Fakes?

2011-09-24T12:19:00.004-06:00

To set the tone for the today's post, I watched the BYU game yesterday with my elder brother. BYU isn't doing that great this year but they happened to win this game against UCF thanks to a great job by the defense and their running game.

Well I had received a text and Facebook invite to a birthday party for a girl I had met a while ago. It was a joint party for her and her roommate. For those who's minds are in the gutter, no that's not a weed party.

Honestly, I originally wasn't planning on attending the party due to its location: Provo, Utah. Let's just say I had a bad experience!

Utah has been under construction for a while now, which because of the game only worsened the problem getting to the party.

When I finally arrived at the party, I was shocked to see that there were about 10 - 15 females and only 2 guys. I was expecting the reverse. I spoke or rather thought too soon though. About 5 minutes passed and in came the line of guys, making that room the closest thing to Germany I had experienced in a long time. (For those who didn't get the reference...Sausage Fest.)

Now I don't consider myself to be shallow or have an extreme case of homophobia, but when you have 2 full football teams worth of guys in a tiny room it's time for me to go.

Before I was ready to go though I made a few observations about Provo/BYU:

I thought I was positive...amid BYU people I was super goth!
Sometimes the funnest part of a birthday party is the lighting of the torch.
Fly solo because having a wing man would only increase the problem.
If you want to disappear among the BYU crowd follow the fads.
Mormon Standard Time definitely applies.

This is an Anthropology blog about Mormon culture. BYU being a Mormon University makes this Mormon Culture at least in part. To further the idea and help prove or disprove my point comment below on your stereotypes of the BYU look, personality, party, etc. Was I spot on or way off base?

(Note to the readers: Stereotypes are standardized and simplified conceptions of groups based on some prior assumptions. It does not cover all BYU students. The intention of this post isn't to tare down BYU because it is one of the greatest Universities. It is only to shed light on the culture!)

Normal Day? You be the judge, but its normal for me!

(Have a story to tell? Be a guest blogger on My Normal Life by emailing me one of your Crazy normal days! chupp22@gmail.com. The stories should be one of your crazy normal days or experiences, and I will accept links to your blogs/websites and things as long as they are appropriate.)

The Reoccuring Post - Fridays 5 things I'm Grateful For

2011-09-23T20:13:00.002-06:00

If you are familiar with this blog you would know that recently I've been looking to improve it. If you aren't know you are up to speed.

In my search for improvement, I found a few bloggers who recently have inspired me.

Their post have been short, and now I understand why!

A few weeks ago I received feedback, although I didn't see it as such at the time, from my sister in law. She said: "I have a short attention span, so I could never follow a blog."

From that statement and a webinar I recently watch entitled 10 Tips for Killer Blog Posts (By Katy Widrick) I learned a ton, but I want to share 3 tips to help improve your blog:

Keep it simple
Keep it interesting
Keep it going

Well here is my attempt to keep it simple...

This strays from my usual subject matter but I thought it interesting, so here is my crazy normal event of the day:

I walked outside of my apartment complex today, and after searching around and clicking the panic button for about 10 minutes I found my car. I sat behind the steering wheel and thought, "I am grateful for the panic button on my car remote."

This triggered an even deeper thought: "I should create what I like to call the reoccurring post." Tons of bloggers have these, and they are usually a staple for the blog. Here goes!

Fridays 5 things I'm grateful for:

The Car's Panic Button - Helping smart people find their cars in walmart parking lots everywhere.
The Sun - It's incredibly warm. Don't believe me go touch it.
My Hyundai Sonata w/ It's V6 Engine - It zoomed me to work so I wasn't late.
Surprise Pay Day - Today was payday, and I didn't remember until the check was in my hand.
Friday Gondolfo's Run - Because I was running late and didn't get to eat breakfast

What are you grateful for today?

Dreams, Double Lives, and Defeating the Opponents!

2011-09-21T21:40:00.003-06:00

This morning I took one of my roommates to class, and on the way he told me about a dream he had had. I actually remembered my dream as well so I shared.

My dream was about coaching a little league soccer team, and still being single. Strange I know but it was cool while I was dreaming it.

As usual I took the back road to get to work. Almost as soon as I pulled out onto the road I was followed by a black Hyundai Sonata. Weirdly enough the thought crossed my mind of having my car find a match for me. I drive a silver Hyundai Sonata, so I figured this car a good match. Thank goodness the driver was a fairly attractive female otherwise this theory or method wouldn't have worked! (Because it wasn't ridiculous already.)

The car followed me for quite a long way almost all the way to my work. For some random reason, I guess curiosity or testing my Assassin skills I wrote down the license plate number to see if I could figure out who the driver was. (Creepy I know, but entertaining!)

For those of you who don't know me that well, a few of the heroes of my double life are James Bond, the Transporter, and Sherlock Holmes. I like seeing what kind of information I can find out about anything and everything. I have sort of trained myself to be a spy/secret agent/detective type person, just in case the Prophet ever needs a special ops team.

Ok so I haven't taken it that far but it is interesting to see what you can find out using just the internet and deductive reasoning. Plus recently my brother texted me about taking a Kung Fu class with him so that would be the only missing link between me and BEING the transporter. (That and actually having the disposition to hurt injure or kill people, and driving an Audi.)

I was $25 away from finding out the owner of that car, and I didn't think it worth it for a hobby.

As the day progressed one of my good friends from work, suggested I look up another blogger. (To see her blog follow this link: Epic Awesome Sauce.) After reading a few of her posts I decided she has a very similar writing style and was a good blogger to start following and corresponding with for ideas.

It paid of because below I made it easier for comments from anyone!

I felt at this point that the day couldn't get any better, but it did! I went to my soccer game a little late, and was fearful for what the score was going to be. When I arrived it was 4 - 2. I thought we were down, but upon passing the ball to help a teammate score the score changed to 5 - 2! Awesome!

We ended up winning the game 9 - 3. Not bad for a bunch of dudes who sit behind computer desks teaching internet marketing all day.

I have made it easy to comment, so if you feel so inclined tell me about one of your recent crazy dreams below!

Top Ten Things to Do on a Friday Night!

2011-09-16T22:33:00.006-06:00

TGIF - Now What?

Well if you look at this post, and when it was made you will see that I spent my Friday night at home on my computer. As I was sitting thinking what I could do on a Friday night, this thought popped into my head: You should write a blog post and help other people figure out what they can do on a Friday night. (P.S. This is a top ten list for single people.)

Top Ten Things to Do on a Friday Night:

10. Read A Book - Mentally stimulating, and doesn't really waste the evening. Nice relaxing time consumer.

9. Bike, Longboard, Skateboard, Run, or Swim - Also relaxing, and allows you to think and take some personal time.

8. Play or Watch a Sporting Event - This is great if you have had a rough week. It allows you to unwind and gear up for the weekend.

7. Camping - Fun and enjoyable! Great way to spend and weekend, and the only one that is in-tents!

6. Visit Family - Family isn't it about...Time? This is always a good thing to do, even some times on a Friday night!

5. Go Dancing - Fun, entertaining, and always a good time.

4. Movie and a Pizza - The classic Friday night activity - Good movie, good food almost nothing more chill.

3. Roommates/Friends Night Out - Always a great idea when nothing else is going on. When you are with friends it's always a party.

2. Go On A Date - This in most people's books would be the number one draft pick, but my number one will make sense when you read it. This is probably the best activity you could be doing on a Friday night. (hint hint to the guys out there...This is the 3rd Friday I have missed going out on a date in 6 months.)

1. Blog - When you have nothing else to do you might as well blog!

Honorable Mentions:

Go to the Temple
Watch YouTube Videos
Work

Not So Honorable Mentions:

Homework
Clean
Sleep
Facebook Stock People
Video Games

I may or may not have done 10 of the things on this list tonight...that was sort of my source for a lot of these activities. Also and maybe most important Comment below and give me your picks for your Top 10 Ideas for a Friday Night!

Normal Day? You be the judge, but its normal for me!

(Have a story to tell? To be a guest blogger on My Normal Life please email me at chupp22@gmail.com. The stories should be one of your crazy normal days or experiences, and I will accept links to your blogs/websites and things as long as they are appropriate.)