I have now taken the ACT test three times. Once as a sophomore, once as a junior, and now once as a senior.
As a sophomore I scored a composite 30. I was thrilled with this score, and even more exciting was the well-roundedness of my score. My lowest sub-score (the subgroups are English, Math, Reading, and Science/Reasoning) was a 28 and my high a 31.
My junior year I scored a composite 31, which I was, again, very happy about. Unfortunately, my science sub-score dropped one point from a 30 as a sophomore to a 29, but I compensated by jumping my English score from a 30 to a 34.
Today I got my scores for the test. I scored a composite 31. Again. I know it is still a good score, but I'm really frustrated with myself. My science sub-score was a 25.
Twenty-five.
My stellar english score also dropped from a 34 to a 33. I really am not disappointed in the score itself. It's going to get me into BYU, which has been the goal since forever. I'm probably going to get a scholarship too, which is very good. I'm just disappointed in myself. If I had simply matched my score on the science portion from my sophomore year, I would have the 32 I was shooting for.
English Muffins! (That's my new curse word.)
Monday, December 28, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Poetry is Beautiful
The still sounds of a rainstorm speak.
They speak truth,
Bang
Swish.
Pitter patter.
My heart sings the song of eternity,
The anguish of a broken soul,
The rush of life coming fast,
The redeeming song of light.
Stand back up,
Run a mile,
Express some thanks,
Give a hug,
Close your eyes,
Vent some feelings,
Smell your pillow,
Fix some mistakes.
Moments define our lives.
They speak truth,
Bang
Swish.
Pitter patter.
My heart sings the song of eternity,
The anguish of a broken soul,
The rush of life coming fast,
The redeeming song of light.
Stand back up,
Run a mile,
Express some thanks,
Give a hug,
Close your eyes,
Vent some feelings,
Smell your pillow,
Fix some mistakes.
Moments define our lives.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
I've Gotta Post About It...
BYU's offense: Stellar
Utah's defense: Great as usual
BYU's defense: Meh
Utah's offense: Meh
First of all, I do not agree with most Utah and BYU fans. Max Hall, in my opinion, has overcome his choke-in-the-big-game-ness. He beat Oklahoma in what was essentially a road game on a killer fourth quarter drive.
He played very well against Florida State, especially in the first half. Our defense did not give our offense a chance to win the game. We had a couple key turnovers (not all Max) that ended up with a thorough spanking.
In the TCU game, Max did not perform well. I would have loved to see him come out and pass all over them (obviously), and he didn't. However, in my opinion, even if Max had come out and played an amazing game, we still would have lost. TCU is really amazing this year, and even though I think we could have stuck with them (at least more than we did), we still would have lost.
So, do I think Max is going to choke against Utah? Not a chance. His legend at BYU is on the line. He is an amazing quarterback, I don't care what anyone says, that is a fact. I really think my Cougs are going to win this one. I think it's the closest match-up there has been between these two teams in a long time. It's going to be fun.
Go Cougars!
Utah's defense: Great as usual
BYU's defense: Meh
Utah's offense: Meh
First of all, I do not agree with most Utah and BYU fans. Max Hall, in my opinion, has overcome his choke-in-the-big-game-ness. He beat Oklahoma in what was essentially a road game on a killer fourth quarter drive.
He played very well against Florida State, especially in the first half. Our defense did not give our offense a chance to win the game. We had a couple key turnovers (not all Max) that ended up with a thorough spanking.
In the TCU game, Max did not perform well. I would have loved to see him come out and pass all over them (obviously), and he didn't. However, in my opinion, even if Max had come out and played an amazing game, we still would have lost. TCU is really amazing this year, and even though I think we could have stuck with them (at least more than we did), we still would have lost.
So, do I think Max is going to choke against Utah? Not a chance. His legend at BYU is on the line. He is an amazing quarterback, I don't care what anyone says, that is a fact. I really think my Cougs are going to win this one. I think it's the closest match-up there has been between these two teams in a long time. It's going to be fun.
Go Cougars!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Tidbits
4.0 :)
Stake Musical Production
BYU Application :)
SBO Activities
Christmas Music
New Dog
Naps
Life is good.
Stake Musical Production
BYU Application :)
SBO Activities
Christmas Music
New Dog
Naps
Life is good.
Monday, October 26, 2009
El Futbol Americano
In order to help compensate for the pain of not playing the best sport on earth, I've been playing football with some guys from school. I've played two games so far, once Saturday and once today.
Stats:
Saturday:
Touchdowns: 0
Receptions: 2
Dropped passes: at least 4
Good Tackles: 1 or 2
Monday:
Touchdowns: 3
Receptions: at least 7
Dropped passes: 0
Good Tackles: 0
Fumble Recoveries: 1
Number of times getting run over by a 6'5", 200 lb train: 2--ouch
So my hope is to get better at defense and continue improving on offense. I know this doesn't mean much to you guys, but I'm just excited to have a little testosterone flowing again. I think I'll go grill some steak and check on that ole boat engine now. *insert manly grunt here*
Stats:
Saturday:
Touchdowns: 0
Receptions: 2
Dropped passes: at least 4
Good Tackles: 1 or 2
Monday:
Touchdowns: 3
Receptions: at least 7
Dropped passes: 0
Good Tackles: 0
Fumble Recoveries: 1
Number of times getting run over by a 6'5", 200 lb train: 2--ouch
So my hope is to get better at defense and continue improving on offense. I know this doesn't mean much to you guys, but I'm just excited to have a little testosterone flowing again. I think I'll go grill some steak and check on that ole boat engine now. *insert manly grunt here*
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Road Not Taken
I'm sure most if not all of you have read/heard Robert Frost's "The Road Not Taken." I love it, so I'm posting it along with my comments.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
How true. In today's world there is so much evil, so much hate, so much filth. It is easy, even in an LDS culture to take the common road: Go to church, say your prayers, casually read your scriptures occasionally, act like the church isn't that important, rebel because you can, clean yourself up, serve a mission, get married in the temple, be an average member of the church who likes some callings and hates others.
To me it all comes down to my faith and testimony in Jesus Christ. Being a "good" member of the church as a teenager is uncool. So what? If this (the gospel) really is true, as I believe it is, then a few people's judgment of me as a "Peter Priesthood" won't mean much on the ultimate judgment day. I wish all teenagers at Viewmont High got this concept. And I also wish it was as easy to live as it is to say. I'm not perfect, just trying.
That's my thought for the day :)
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
How true. In today's world there is so much evil, so much hate, so much filth. It is easy, even in an LDS culture to take the common road: Go to church, say your prayers, casually read your scriptures occasionally, act like the church isn't that important, rebel because you can, clean yourself up, serve a mission, get married in the temple, be an average member of the church who likes some callings and hates others.
To me it all comes down to my faith and testimony in Jesus Christ. Being a "good" member of the church as a teenager is uncool. So what? If this (the gospel) really is true, as I believe it is, then a few people's judgment of me as a "Peter Priesthood" won't mean much on the ultimate judgment day. I wish all teenagers at Viewmont High got this concept. And I also wish it was as easy to live as it is to say. I'm not perfect, just trying.
That's my thought for the day :)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Even Though I Should Be Trying To Figure Out My Stats Assignment Or Getting To Bed, I'm Writing This Poem. Because I Can
I am from the Crowley's
From slalom skiing and the gift-exchange.
And laughing till it hurts and serving with family.
I am from the Nilsen's
From staying up till 1 AM catching up with cousins
And listening to stories about my grandpa and grandma.
I am from soccer
From goals scored and juggling records broken
And sitting on the sideline and wanting to cry.
I am from Provo
From games before I could talk
And 66,000 screaming fans.
I am from lawn mowing
From loud music
And personal satisfaction.
I am from reading
From Harry Potter
And Where the Red Fern Grows.
I am from John
From hours of sports analysis
And home-teaching visits.
I am from Janet
From hot chocolate after soccer games
And long talks about life and girls.
I am from friends
From movies and Carl's Jr.
And pick-up basketball and life.
I am from life lessons
From working and bomb threats
And so much more to come.
From slalom skiing and the gift-exchange.
And laughing till it hurts and serving with family.
I am from the Nilsen's
From staying up till 1 AM catching up with cousins
And listening to stories about my grandpa and grandma.
I am from soccer
From goals scored and juggling records broken
And sitting on the sideline and wanting to cry.
I am from Provo
From games before I could talk
And 66,000 screaming fans.
I am from lawn mowing
From loud music
And personal satisfaction.
I am from reading
From Harry Potter
And Where the Red Fern Grows.
I am from John
From hours of sports analysis
And home-teaching visits.
I am from Janet
From hot chocolate after soccer games
And long talks about life and girls.
I am from friends
From movies and Carl's Jr.
And pick-up basketball and life.
I am from life lessons
From working and bomb threats
And so much more to come.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Total Disbelief
Unbelievable. I am absolutely amazed. Go Cougs.
I want to apologize for my less than optimistic post. I was honestly just trying to be realistic and prep myself for what I thought was going to be a loss for BYU.
I stand corrected.
Now regarding what I'm sure I'll be hearing from Utah fans on Tuesday back at school:
Sam Bradford's injury:
I'm sure that there will be plenty of people who will say that if Bradford hadn't gotten hurt, they would have beaten us in the second half. Certainly the game changed after Bradford was out. No doubt about it, there is no replacing a player like that.
BUT
When Bradford left the game the score was 7-7. The only touchdown he scored on us was after we handed them the ball on our own 30-yard line on a fumbled punt return. We held one of the best quarterbacks in the nation (maybe the best) to 7 points and no one can say that we couldn't have done it again. I actually felt more worried for our defense in the second half when they were running the ball at us and moving the ball effectively.
Now if anyone says that Oklahoma was over-rated, they can go suck a lemon. They were not. We outplayed an incredible team. Period.
Watch out college football, the cougars are here to stay.
I want to apologize for my less than optimistic post. I was honestly just trying to be realistic and prep myself for what I thought was going to be a loss for BYU.
I stand corrected.
Now regarding what I'm sure I'll be hearing from Utah fans on Tuesday back at school:
Sam Bradford's injury:
I'm sure that there will be plenty of people who will say that if Bradford hadn't gotten hurt, they would have beaten us in the second half. Certainly the game changed after Bradford was out. No doubt about it, there is no replacing a player like that.
BUT
When Bradford left the game the score was 7-7. The only touchdown he scored on us was after we handed them the ball on our own 30-yard line on a fumbled punt return. We held one of the best quarterbacks in the nation (maybe the best) to 7 points and no one can say that we couldn't have done it again. I actually felt more worried for our defense in the second half when they were running the ball at us and moving the ball effectively.
Now if anyone says that Oklahoma was over-rated, they can go suck a lemon. They were not. We outplayed an incredible team. Period.
Watch out college football, the cougars are here to stay.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Football Season
Look at me, not even a full week and a new post already. So pretty much this Saturday is a HUGE day. BYU is playing Oklahoma. Here are my thoughts:
Reasons we could lose:
Oklahoma is a powerhouse. They have an amazing quarterback and overall amazing athletes, better than BYU's or anyone in the Mountain West for that matter.
We have a brand-spankin'-new offensive line, which could spell destruction for our offense. If Max is getting rushed every down, we don't have much of a chance.
Our secondary does not have my confidence until they prove themselves. We heard good things before last season, but by the end they were anything but up to snuff. I REALLY want them to be great, but they've got to prove it to me. Defending Sam Bradford is going to be ridiculously hard for the best of secondaries, let alone one that has yet to prove itself.
Reasons we could win:
Oklahoma played for the National Championship last season. BYU had a disappointing finish to say the least. This plays in our favor, in my opinion, because OU could easily come out overconfident. BYU, on the other hand, has something to prove.
We have a solid defensive line, while OU has a brand new offensive line also. I don't care how good Bradford is, no one can complete passes if they're getting smashed into the ground by Jan Jorgensen and Russell Tialevea every down.
Max Hall is hungry.
Mckay Jacobson is back. Dennis Pitta, Oneil Chambers, Luke Ashworth, Andrew George, Harvey Unga, and Manase Tonga round off what could easily be one of the best offenses BYU has had in a while.
I feel this is a very fair list. Obviously I'm ridiculously partial, but the things I have brought up are nothing but fact. Realistically, I give us a 15-20% chance of winning. Highly unlikely. My hope is that the football nation turns off their TVs saying, "BYU just gave an amazing OU team a great game. They kept it close and looked like a great team, but couldn't quite pull it out in the end. They are a force to be reckoned with."
I think anything within 14 points is a success for BYU. As long as no one gets injured, we don't turn the ball over, we create at least one turnover, and we don't get beat by more than 14 or 17, I'll keep my head held high at school Monday :)
Go Cougs.
Reasons we could lose:
Oklahoma is a powerhouse. They have an amazing quarterback and overall amazing athletes, better than BYU's or anyone in the Mountain West for that matter.
We have a brand-spankin'-new offensive line, which could spell destruction for our offense. If Max is getting rushed every down, we don't have much of a chance.
Our secondary does not have my confidence until they prove themselves. We heard good things before last season, but by the end they were anything but up to snuff. I REALLY want them to be great, but they've got to prove it to me. Defending Sam Bradford is going to be ridiculously hard for the best of secondaries, let alone one that has yet to prove itself.
Reasons we could win:
Oklahoma played for the National Championship last season. BYU had a disappointing finish to say the least. This plays in our favor, in my opinion, because OU could easily come out overconfident. BYU, on the other hand, has something to prove.
We have a solid defensive line, while OU has a brand new offensive line also. I don't care how good Bradford is, no one can complete passes if they're getting smashed into the ground by Jan Jorgensen and Russell Tialevea every down.
Max Hall is hungry.
Mckay Jacobson is back. Dennis Pitta, Oneil Chambers, Luke Ashworth, Andrew George, Harvey Unga, and Manase Tonga round off what could easily be one of the best offenses BYU has had in a while.
I feel this is a very fair list. Obviously I'm ridiculously partial, but the things I have brought up are nothing but fact. Realistically, I give us a 15-20% chance of winning. Highly unlikely. My hope is that the football nation turns off their TVs saying, "BYU just gave an amazing OU team a great game. They kept it close and looked like a great team, but couldn't quite pull it out in the end. They are a force to be reckoned with."
I think anything within 14 points is a success for BYU. As long as no one gets injured, we don't turn the ball over, we create at least one turnover, and we don't get beat by more than 14 or 17, I'll keep my head held high at school Monday :)
Go Cougs.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
My Sincerest Apologies
School started. Let me repeat that slightly differently: summer is over. As in waterskiing, vegging, waking up at noon, movies with friends on weeknights—over. Ugh. Where did summer go? We JUST got out of school. Anyway, I know it's no excuse for my ridiculous lack of posting, but that is my measly attempt at an excuse.
Don't get me wrong, life is great. My schedule this year is:
A days:
Student Government
AP English
CE Chemistry
Seminary
B days:
Foods 1 (haha)
US government
Spanish 3
AP Statistics
Pretty fun stuff overall. It's going to be a great year. I could do with another month of summer, but I'm still just breaking into school, thats all.
I will do my best to post more often. :)
Don't get me wrong, life is great. My schedule this year is:
A days:
Student Government
AP English
CE Chemistry
Seminary
B days:
Foods 1 (haha)
US government
Spanish 3
AP Statistics
Pretty fun stuff overall. It's going to be a great year. I could do with another month of summer, but I'm still just breaking into school, thats all.
I will do my best to post more often. :)
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Kick kick kick kick kick...
Two weeks ago I broke my soccer juggling record. It's now 1453.
I'm actually really proud of that accomplishment. I've been thinking about it a lot. I've spent countless hours juggling, it's kind of a part of me. It started back when I was probably 10 or 11 and my dad took me outside and started juggling with me. We would allow one bounce in between every touch. We were thrilled when we got 13. Amazing what you can do when you set your mind to it.
I remember the first time I broke 50. I couldn't believe it. I remember thinking, "What if I broke 100?! Wouldn't that be something." So I worked. A lot. And soon after I broke 100. Then I decided that one day I'd break 1000. And two weeks ago I did it. Wow. One of those priceless journeys I guess. Wouldn't trade it for anything. :)
Have a great day.
I'm actually really proud of that accomplishment. I've been thinking about it a lot. I've spent countless hours juggling, it's kind of a part of me. It started back when I was probably 10 or 11 and my dad took me outside and started juggling with me. We would allow one bounce in between every touch. We were thrilled when we got 13. Amazing what you can do when you set your mind to it.
I remember the first time I broke 50. I couldn't believe it. I remember thinking, "What if I broke 100?! Wouldn't that be something." So I worked. A lot. And soon after I broke 100. Then I decided that one day I'd break 1000. And two weeks ago I did it. Wow. One of those priceless journeys I guess. Wouldn't trade it for anything. :)
Have a great day.
Monday, July 13, 2009
An Update In the Life of JJ
I'm becoming one of those really lame bloggers. One of those bloggers that never blog. Lame! So here's a post. I feel like my life has been a huge roller coaster the last little while, so (although you probably aren't really dying to read about my life) I'm giving yet another update in the life of JJ Crowley.
Camps/Trips Taken So Far: Back East trip with family, EFY with cousins, Ward Youth Conference at Bear Lake, Student Body Office retreat at Bear Lake (two days after youth conference, haha), Priests Camp on the Snake River.
Trips Yet to Be Taken: Just one leadership conference. Maybe two. Probably one. YAY! Home at last.
SBO: Well, I've already mentioned it, but I'll be the publicity officer next year at Viewmont. Right now I'm brainstorming ideas of how to spice up the morning announcements because NO ONE listens to them, and it's killing me. I have to get the word out, and that is the best way, and yet NO ONE pays attention. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Soccer: This, in my opinion, is the saddest part of my life right now. For the first time in 9 years, I'm not on a team. It's killing me. I juggle every day (that I've been home), but my burning passion and love for the greatest sport on earth isn't being quenched. I think I'll go cry in my room now.
Summer Goals: At the beginning of the summer we (me and my siblings) made personal goals for the summer. Our parents then gave us an amount of money they would be willing to pay us if we completed the goals. I've gotta say, I really like this idea! I've been showered and dressed every day by 10:30 this summer (I know some of you just sprayed milk out your nose, but this is actually an accomplishment for me. I'm quite the "vegger" as my mom calls it). I've also been much more consistent on exercising and scripture reading because of it.
Life in General: Is great. I love life. I'm so blessed. Out of 6 BILLION people on earth I get to be one of 13.5 million who have the true gospel in my life. The Lord has entrusted me with his priesthood. I understand where I was before I came to Earth. I know why I'm here and that the Lord expects much of me. I know where I'm going after this life and what I have to do to obtain eternal glory and life with my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. Wow. I can't wait to share that with other people. Like I said, I'm more blessed than I can even express.
Well that went rather churchy towards the end, but this is a Destination of Diverse Discussion, so that's okay. :) Thanks for checking in and I will try to post more often now that I'll be home some more.
Camps/Trips Taken So Far: Back East trip with family, EFY with cousins, Ward Youth Conference at Bear Lake, Student Body Office retreat at Bear Lake (two days after youth conference, haha), Priests Camp on the Snake River.
Trips Yet to Be Taken: Just one leadership conference. Maybe two. Probably one. YAY! Home at last.
SBO: Well, I've already mentioned it, but I'll be the publicity officer next year at Viewmont. Right now I'm brainstorming ideas of how to spice up the morning announcements because NO ONE listens to them, and it's killing me. I have to get the word out, and that is the best way, and yet NO ONE pays attention. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Soccer: This, in my opinion, is the saddest part of my life right now. For the first time in 9 years, I'm not on a team. It's killing me. I juggle every day (that I've been home), but my burning passion and love for the greatest sport on earth isn't being quenched. I think I'll go cry in my room now.
Summer Goals: At the beginning of the summer we (me and my siblings) made personal goals for the summer. Our parents then gave us an amount of money they would be willing to pay us if we completed the goals. I've gotta say, I really like this idea! I've been showered and dressed every day by 10:30 this summer (I know some of you just sprayed milk out your nose, but this is actually an accomplishment for me. I'm quite the "vegger" as my mom calls it). I've also been much more consistent on exercising and scripture reading because of it.
Life in General: Is great. I love life. I'm so blessed. Out of 6 BILLION people on earth I get to be one of 13.5 million who have the true gospel in my life. The Lord has entrusted me with his priesthood. I understand where I was before I came to Earth. I know why I'm here and that the Lord expects much of me. I know where I'm going after this life and what I have to do to obtain eternal glory and life with my Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. Wow. I can't wait to share that with other people. Like I said, I'm more blessed than I can even express.
Well that went rather churchy towards the end, but this is a Destination of Diverse Discussion, so that's okay. :) Thanks for checking in and I will try to post more often now that I'll be home some more.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Craziness
Well the day after school got out we (my family) went back east for a week. We got home at midnight (ish) Sunday, June 14th. At about 9 the next morning I left for EFY with my cousins. Whew! What a way to kick off the summer. It was so great. I don't have any pictures from EFY yet, but I should have some later on. Here are some from our trip back east:
The journey begins :)
Nate and Elizabeth in the grove. How precious :)
Wow. 'Nuff said.
The Susquehanna River.
The monument at the Susquehanna River (where Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood and baptized each other!)
Thomas Jefferson...A statue of him.
The Kirtland Temple.
Nate striking a pose in front of the Newel K. Whitney Store. This is where Joseph Smith taught the school of the prophets!
Angel Moroni on the Hill Cumorah. Awesome.
The Sacred Grove. Incredible.
JFK's headstone.
Honest Abe Lincoln. And Elizabeth. Thumbs Up.
How we all felt at the end of the trip. :)
The journey begins :)
Nate and Elizabeth in the grove. How precious :)
Wow. 'Nuff said.
The Susquehanna River.
The monument at the Susquehanna River (where Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood and baptized each other!)
Thomas Jefferson...A statue of him.
The Kirtland Temple.
Nate striking a pose in front of the Newel K. Whitney Store. This is where Joseph Smith taught the school of the prophets!
Angel Moroni on the Hill Cumorah. Awesome.
The Sacred Grove. Incredible.
JFK's headstone.
Honest Abe Lincoln. And Elizabeth. Thumbs Up.
How we all felt at the end of the trip. :)
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Copy Center
I have decided to copy my cousin kate and make my blog invitation-less. It's just such a pain for you and me to login constantly. If I have problems, I'll go back, but I don't see that being much of an issue.
Friday, May 22, 2009
The Two Poems...
...that were published (along with my story) in Viewmont's first ever literary magazine.
Mrs. Mortimer is Waiting
If you should come across a freshly chewed piece of bubble gum,
in the middle of the rarely visited path between the Samson's and the Bells,
on a crisp October evening
on your way to visit Mrs. Mortimer,
who invited you over for cookies and grapefruit juice
for the third time this week,
and even though you're dreadint the musty smell
due to the ridiculous amount of cat food in the basement,
you still visit,
because heaven knows that this world needs more people like you,
who still rake the neighbor's leaves,
and eat at the local diner,
and walk the dog,
and read books on the weekend.
So leave the gume there,
Mrs. Mortimer is waiting.
It's kinda weird, kinda cool, kinda confusing. I really don't have any explanation, it's just supposed to be interpreted however you want to interpret it.
What Makes You?
The moments between sleep and consciousness,
Watching a thunderstorm,
Conversations with myself,
Listening to the sounds of your house at home alone,
Waking up before anyone in the tent,
Races against no one,
Silent self-evaluations,
Great contemplative songs,
Wearing the sweatpants you got for Christmas all break long,
Failed exercise plans,
Stepping over the sidewalk cracks,
Fighting for starting posoitions,
Success,
Disappointment,
Enthusiasm,
Pain,
Joy.
What makes you?
This one is self-explanatory. These are some of the countless over-looked moments that make me who I am today. Not my favorite poem I've ever written, but everyone on the staff really liked it.
Mrs. Mortimer is Waiting
If you should come across a freshly chewed piece of bubble gum,
in the middle of the rarely visited path between the Samson's and the Bells,
on a crisp October evening
on your way to visit Mrs. Mortimer,
who invited you over for cookies and grapefruit juice
for the third time this week,
and even though you're dreadint the musty smell
due to the ridiculous amount of cat food in the basement,
you still visit,
because heaven knows that this world needs more people like you,
who still rake the neighbor's leaves,
and eat at the local diner,
and walk the dog,
and read books on the weekend.
So leave the gume there,
Mrs. Mortimer is waiting.
It's kinda weird, kinda cool, kinda confusing. I really don't have any explanation, it's just supposed to be interpreted however you want to interpret it.
What Makes You?
The moments between sleep and consciousness,
Watching a thunderstorm,
Conversations with myself,
Listening to the sounds of your house at home alone,
Waking up before anyone in the tent,
Races against no one,
Silent self-evaluations,
Great contemplative songs,
Wearing the sweatpants you got for Christmas all break long,
Failed exercise plans,
Stepping over the sidewalk cracks,
Fighting for starting posoitions,
Success,
Disappointment,
Enthusiasm,
Pain,
Joy.
What makes you?
This one is self-explanatory. These are some of the countless over-looked moments that make me who I am today. Not my favorite poem I've ever written, but everyone on the staff really liked it.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Update In My Wonderful Life
I made Student Body Office for next school year, which has been keeping me VERY busy.
Prom was fun.
Helping to coach nate's soccer team.
Still working to pay parents back for EFY.
Reading Harry Potter...again :)
AP Calculus test went well (hoping for a 5).
Not taking the AP American test.
3 pieces to be published in Viewmont's first ever Literary Magazine next week. :)
Moved from second assistant in the priest's quorum to secretary.
Life's good.
Can't wait for summer.
Love you for reading my blog.
Peace out.
Prom was fun.
Helping to coach nate's soccer team.
Still working to pay parents back for EFY.
Reading Harry Potter...again :)
AP Calculus test went well (hoping for a 5).
Not taking the AP American test.
3 pieces to be published in Viewmont's first ever Literary Magazine next week. :)
Moved from second assistant in the priest's quorum to secretary.
Life's good.
Can't wait for summer.
Love you for reading my blog.
Peace out.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
The Somewhat Disappointing (in my opinion) Ending to a Decent Story Up To This Point
Friday came with more high blood sugar symptoms. Sam spent the morning in and out of sleep, waking up only to put another log on the fire and fall back asleep. During the afternoon he pulled himself out of his grogginess to head to the river, yet again, to drain huge heaving gulps of water, only for it to pass straight through him in minutes.
“I’ve got to do something. I can’t lay here and die,” he thought, “not when they’ll be here tomorrow.”
So in desperation, Sam decided to jog around the meadow to try to use up any sugar in his blood that he could. After jogging just a short lap, Sam sat down, exhausted, the driving thirst returning. Unable to resist the roar of the river, Sam tried to get up, but collapsed in the process.
~~~
Sam slept late into the night before waking up, still delusional. He could see the glow of the dying fire and managed to get across the meadow and into his shelter.
~~~
Saturday morning passed much the same. Sam managed to keep himself awake by whittling a stick by the fire for most of the morning. He even managed to make it to the berry bush and to the river for some nourishment in the late afternoon. He knew he had to stay awake, or he might not wake up the next time. As the evening came on, Sam laid down near the fire, willing his eyes to stay open, his mind to stay awake.
As the sun began to set, Sam heard something in the distance. It was voices. Calling his name. In desperation Sam managed to yell back, “Here!” But that was all, there was nothing else he could do. Just as he slipped out of consciousness he heard,
“Hang in there, Sam. It’s gonna be alright.”
“I’ve got to do something. I can’t lay here and die,” he thought, “not when they’ll be here tomorrow.”
So in desperation, Sam decided to jog around the meadow to try to use up any sugar in his blood that he could. After jogging just a short lap, Sam sat down, exhausted, the driving thirst returning. Unable to resist the roar of the river, Sam tried to get up, but collapsed in the process.
~~~
Sam slept late into the night before waking up, still delusional. He could see the glow of the dying fire and managed to get across the meadow and into his shelter.
~~~
Saturday morning passed much the same. Sam managed to keep himself awake by whittling a stick by the fire for most of the morning. He even managed to make it to the berry bush and to the river for some nourishment in the late afternoon. He knew he had to stay awake, or he might not wake up the next time. As the evening came on, Sam laid down near the fire, willing his eyes to stay open, his mind to stay awake.
As the sun began to set, Sam heard something in the distance. It was voices. Calling his name. In desperation Sam managed to yell back, “Here!” But that was all, there was nothing else he could do. Just as he slipped out of consciousness he heard,
“Hang in there, Sam. It’s gonna be alright.”
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Down the River; Part 3
The first thing Sam noticed when he woke up was the level of his blood sugar. He knew it was high. The ripping dehydration and fruity taste of his breath told him that he had a problem. Adrenaline had always been Sam’s biggest challenge in controlling his diabetes. Whether it was pick-up basketball or state cup soccer, his blood sugar always went high after an intense, adrenaline-pumping experience. Standing up, he reached into his pocket, hoping against hope to find his insulin pump. But all he found was some wet lint, his pocketknife, and his packing list, left in his pocket from days before. His heart sank. Not only was he lost. Not only would he have to survive until Saturday before anyone came looking for him. Not only did he have to find food, water, and shelter. Not only did he have to survive alone. He had to do it with a chronic illness. The more he thought about the task ahead of him, the more he wanted to lie in the grass and cry.
Forcing himself to gain control, however, he stood up and took account of his surroundings. He was at the edge of a small, somewhat-circular meadow lined with trees. He was wearing a pair of jeans, an old t-shirt, and a long sleeve flannel button up. Slowly, the Boy Scout in Sam began to emerge,
“If you get lost, stay in one place, don’t wander.” Sam thought. The advice had been given to him countless times. A flood of memories of watching “Man vs. Wild with Bear Grylls” episodes came rushing to Sam’s mind. Sam’s dad had always said,
“You’ve seen so many of those survival shows that you could probably survive anywhere on Earth for the rest of your life, Sam.”
“And he was right.” Sam thought. “I can survive here.” But the more Sam thought about the advice to stay where he was, the more absurd it sounded. He couldn’t sit here for two days, alone, waiting to be found.
“I just have to be able to find my way back. It’s simple.”
In minutes he had circled the meadow, marking each tree with his initials. When he was finished, relief rushed over him. He was on his way to survival. It wouldn’t get any easier than that, but this first action set firmly in his mind his decision to survive. After going the river to drink, Sam returned.
“Ok,” he thought, “I’ve got to have some kind of shelter.”
After several hours, Sam had built an effective lean-to shelter at the end of the meadow, farthest from the roaring river. Next, Sam spelled out the word “HELP” in huge letters in the middle of the meadow in logs. Once again, the achievement of something proactive eased his mind a little.
Sam spent the remaining hours of daylight searching for any food. Just beyond the trees to the east, Sam found a single bush of red berries. Despite his high blood sugar, Sam couldn’t help but stuff himself full of the tart, red berries.
~~~
The night was an endless tunnel of freezing, restless darkness. Every drop of moisture in the grass froze overnight and when Sam finally woke up, his blood sugar still high, he was covered in a dusting of frost. When the discomfort of the cold frost had overcome his desire to lie in the shelter forever, Sam army-crawled his way out of the shelter. After going to the river for several long gulps of the cool water, he went to gather some dry tinder and wood. It wasn’t long before he had found a several dry branches and a fallen, dead pine tree.
“Nature’s gasoline.” Sam thought with a smile, remembering roaring bonfires at previous camps. Carefully he transported the branches to his shelter, trying to salvage every precious needle. After some consideration, Sam determined that the best approach was to carve a semi-circle groove into one of the larger, dry branches and then to rub one of the other branches in the groove to generate the spark.
When Sam had completed carving the large branch, he began the daunting task of starting the fire. He dug down into the dirt to protect any precious sparks from the wind, and then started rubbing. He rubbed for hours, experimenting with short, fast, jerky strokes and longer strokes with more pressure.
Sam sat all afternoon, still showing signs of high blood sugar, with blistered fingers, rubbing the sticks together. When the sun had just begun to set, Sam heard something behind him. Turning he saw a rabbit sitting not ten yards to his left. Thinking quickly, Sam reached to the ground where he knew sat a small, baseball-sized rock, his eyes still locked on the unaware rabbit. Picking up the rock in his now sweating hand, he focused in on a small patch of the gray fur. Slowly he adjusted his legs to face the rabbit and then, as quickly as he could, he side-armed the rock with all his might at the rabbit.
Bullseye.
Sam jumped up off his aching knees to examine his kill. His stomach screamed in excitement at the prospect of food. Turning back to the branches, Sam stretched his arms and returned, reinvigorated, to his fire building.
The extra motivation of the rabbit was just what Sam needed. In less than half an hour, Sam had a blazing fire burning. After cleaning the rabbit somewhat clumsily, he cooked and ate it, supplemented with several crimson berries squeezed over the sweet meat.
“Just like Bear.” Sam thought, smiling.
Forcing himself to gain control, however, he stood up and took account of his surroundings. He was at the edge of a small, somewhat-circular meadow lined with trees. He was wearing a pair of jeans, an old t-shirt, and a long sleeve flannel button up. Slowly, the Boy Scout in Sam began to emerge,
“If you get lost, stay in one place, don’t wander.” Sam thought. The advice had been given to him countless times. A flood of memories of watching “Man vs. Wild with Bear Grylls” episodes came rushing to Sam’s mind. Sam’s dad had always said,
“You’ve seen so many of those survival shows that you could probably survive anywhere on Earth for the rest of your life, Sam.”
“And he was right.” Sam thought. “I can survive here.” But the more Sam thought about the advice to stay where he was, the more absurd it sounded. He couldn’t sit here for two days, alone, waiting to be found.
“I just have to be able to find my way back. It’s simple.”
In minutes he had circled the meadow, marking each tree with his initials. When he was finished, relief rushed over him. He was on his way to survival. It wouldn’t get any easier than that, but this first action set firmly in his mind his decision to survive. After going the river to drink, Sam returned.
“Ok,” he thought, “I’ve got to have some kind of shelter.”
After several hours, Sam had built an effective lean-to shelter at the end of the meadow, farthest from the roaring river. Next, Sam spelled out the word “HELP” in huge letters in the middle of the meadow in logs. Once again, the achievement of something proactive eased his mind a little.
Sam spent the remaining hours of daylight searching for any food. Just beyond the trees to the east, Sam found a single bush of red berries. Despite his high blood sugar, Sam couldn’t help but stuff himself full of the tart, red berries.
~~~
The night was an endless tunnel of freezing, restless darkness. Every drop of moisture in the grass froze overnight and when Sam finally woke up, his blood sugar still high, he was covered in a dusting of frost. When the discomfort of the cold frost had overcome his desire to lie in the shelter forever, Sam army-crawled his way out of the shelter. After going to the river for several long gulps of the cool water, he went to gather some dry tinder and wood. It wasn’t long before he had found a several dry branches and a fallen, dead pine tree.
“Nature’s gasoline.” Sam thought with a smile, remembering roaring bonfires at previous camps. Carefully he transported the branches to his shelter, trying to salvage every precious needle. After some consideration, Sam determined that the best approach was to carve a semi-circle groove into one of the larger, dry branches and then to rub one of the other branches in the groove to generate the spark.
When Sam had completed carving the large branch, he began the daunting task of starting the fire. He dug down into the dirt to protect any precious sparks from the wind, and then started rubbing. He rubbed for hours, experimenting with short, fast, jerky strokes and longer strokes with more pressure.
Sam sat all afternoon, still showing signs of high blood sugar, with blistered fingers, rubbing the sticks together. When the sun had just begun to set, Sam heard something behind him. Turning he saw a rabbit sitting not ten yards to his left. Thinking quickly, Sam reached to the ground where he knew sat a small, baseball-sized rock, his eyes still locked on the unaware rabbit. Picking up the rock in his now sweating hand, he focused in on a small patch of the gray fur. Slowly he adjusted his legs to face the rabbit and then, as quickly as he could, he side-armed the rock with all his might at the rabbit.
Bullseye.
Sam jumped up off his aching knees to examine his kill. His stomach screamed in excitement at the prospect of food. Turning back to the branches, Sam stretched his arms and returned, reinvigorated, to his fire building.
The extra motivation of the rabbit was just what Sam needed. In less than half an hour, Sam had a blazing fire burning. After cleaning the rabbit somewhat clumsily, he cooked and ate it, supplemented with several crimson berries squeezed over the sweet meat.
“Just like Bear.” Sam thought, smiling.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Down the River; Part 2
Lunch ended quickly and soon the boys were racing down the river, with Sam and Matt leading the way. Soon the group came to a sign reading, Warning: White Water Rapids. Approach At Your Own Risk. This was met by another cheer from the troop as butterflies rose in each stomach.
Sam approached first, carefully aiming for every gap. As more boys dropped into the fast water, it became apparent that something wasn’t right. This wasn’t anything like the videos the troop had watched in preparation sessions. The water was too high and too fast. Gaps were difficult to see and the scrape of rock on the fiberglass bottoms of the kayaks could be heard over the roar of the river. Not thirty seconds into the rapids, there was a broken, gasping yell from Matt who was helplessly floating with the river, having lost his kayak. Jim watched as Matt would fall below the waterline, only to resurface several seconds later.
Jim paddled hard, trying to maneuver his way towards Matt, ignoring his own safety. As he came within feet of his flailing scout, there was an ear-splitting crack as Jim’s kayak hit a hidden boulder. Jim was thrown forward as his kayak came to an immediate stop. His powerless figure landed limply in the water, disappearing quickly under the surface.
Still ahead of the pack was Sam. Through his tear filled eyes, Sam caught a glimpse of the bottom of the treacherous rapids. Adrenaline surged through his veins as he paddled harder towards the next gap. His renewed determination propelled him hard and fast—too fast.
In his firm surge towards the gap, he had overshot it. Abandoning safety, he leaned towards the gap in a panicked attempt to fix his mistake. Without warning, his kayak tipped over, holding him in a death grip under the water. Frantically he flailed under the water, freeing his legs from the kayak. In a blind frenzy, his arms found the slippery surface of a fallen log in the water. Straining to keep his head above the water, Sam took a huge gulp of air, plunged his head under, summoned all of his strength, and pulled himself along the log towards the bank.
After a moment to catch his breath, he got up and scrambled up the bank to the top of the rapids. He searched hopefully for any sign of a scout, kayak, or leader, but found nothing. His mind racing, Sam ran down the shore to the bottom of the rapids. This time his hopeful search turned to a discovery of despair. Floating down the river was the lifeless body of every member of the group. Sam panicked and raced towards one of the bodies, caught on a rock near the shore.
Sam reached his friend and pulled him out of the water, turning over the body in his arms. It was Matt. Praying for a miracle, Sam checked for a pulse.
Nothing.
He held Matt’s face to his cheek, feeling for breathing. Still nothing. Sam dragged his friend up the shore and began performing CPR. Two emergency breaths. Fifteen compressions. Breath. Fifteen. Breath. Fifteen. Sam eyes burned with tears as he desperately tried to revive his best friend. Just when it seemed hopeless, Matt suddenly coughed and vomited several times. Despite his joy, Sam remembered that Matt could choke on or drown in his own vomit. Quickly, Sam turned him over and hit him on the back.
But he didn’t heave. No more coughing. It was over just as quickly as it had begun. Sam desperately felt for a pulse. Still nothing. No breathing. Springing into action, Sam began CPR again. But this time there was no vomit. No coughing. No hope.
Sam turned, beyond tears, beyond feeling, and walked aimlessly. Within minutes, he collapsed.
Sam approached first, carefully aiming for every gap. As more boys dropped into the fast water, it became apparent that something wasn’t right. This wasn’t anything like the videos the troop had watched in preparation sessions. The water was too high and too fast. Gaps were difficult to see and the scrape of rock on the fiberglass bottoms of the kayaks could be heard over the roar of the river. Not thirty seconds into the rapids, there was a broken, gasping yell from Matt who was helplessly floating with the river, having lost his kayak. Jim watched as Matt would fall below the waterline, only to resurface several seconds later.
Jim paddled hard, trying to maneuver his way towards Matt, ignoring his own safety. As he came within feet of his flailing scout, there was an ear-splitting crack as Jim’s kayak hit a hidden boulder. Jim was thrown forward as his kayak came to an immediate stop. His powerless figure landed limply in the water, disappearing quickly under the surface.
Still ahead of the pack was Sam. Through his tear filled eyes, Sam caught a glimpse of the bottom of the treacherous rapids. Adrenaline surged through his veins as he paddled harder towards the next gap. His renewed determination propelled him hard and fast—too fast.
In his firm surge towards the gap, he had overshot it. Abandoning safety, he leaned towards the gap in a panicked attempt to fix his mistake. Without warning, his kayak tipped over, holding him in a death grip under the water. Frantically he flailed under the water, freeing his legs from the kayak. In a blind frenzy, his arms found the slippery surface of a fallen log in the water. Straining to keep his head above the water, Sam took a huge gulp of air, plunged his head under, summoned all of his strength, and pulled himself along the log towards the bank.
After a moment to catch his breath, he got up and scrambled up the bank to the top of the rapids. He searched hopefully for any sign of a scout, kayak, or leader, but found nothing. His mind racing, Sam ran down the shore to the bottom of the rapids. This time his hopeful search turned to a discovery of despair. Floating down the river was the lifeless body of every member of the group. Sam panicked and raced towards one of the bodies, caught on a rock near the shore.
Sam reached his friend and pulled him out of the water, turning over the body in his arms. It was Matt. Praying for a miracle, Sam checked for a pulse.
Nothing.
He held Matt’s face to his cheek, feeling for breathing. Still nothing. Sam dragged his friend up the shore and began performing CPR. Two emergency breaths. Fifteen compressions. Breath. Fifteen. Breath. Fifteen. Sam eyes burned with tears as he desperately tried to revive his best friend. Just when it seemed hopeless, Matt suddenly coughed and vomited several times. Despite his joy, Sam remembered that Matt could choke on or drown in his own vomit. Quickly, Sam turned him over and hit him on the back.
But he didn’t heave. No more coughing. It was over just as quickly as it had begun. Sam desperately felt for a pulse. Still nothing. No breathing. Springing into action, Sam began CPR again. But this time there was no vomit. No coughing. No hope.
Sam turned, beyond tears, beyond feeling, and walked aimlessly. Within minutes, he collapsed.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Down the River: A New Short Story
I wrote this for creative writing. It's too long to post the whole thing at once, so I'll post more later.
Sam Brinkhart yawned in the mid-80 degree weather Tuesday morning as he paddled his kayak towards the bank of the Snake River. The local scout troop was on a five-day river run in southern Idaho. Sam struggled out of his kayak on the shore and walked up the bank to wait for his turn in the small latrine. As he stretched out his somewhat cramped legs he chatted with his buddies.
“So Matt, I’m thinkin’ you’ll be the first one to eat it.” Sam joked.
“Yeah right. My money’s on you.” Matt responded. It was the extreme unlikelihood of either scenario, which made everyone in the group laugh. Matt and Sam were by far the most athletic boys in the troop, and both had picked up the skill of kayaking with abnormal ease.
“In fact, I’ll bet your tube gets caught on someone’s oar and you fall in.” Matt added. Matt was referring to Sam’s insulin pump. Sam had been diagnosed with diabetes when he was twelve. He was one of the shortest members of the group. He had dark brown hair and a deceptively scrawny build; everyone knew that Matt was the only boy in the troop who Sam couldn’t out-muscle. His genuine friendliness and easy-going nature made it easy to kid with him, as Matt enjoyed doing frequently.
Matt was a state champion wrestler in the 198 weight class and looked the part of tough guy. His high cheekbones, sunken eyes and cauliflower ear were enough to make any physical competitor curl into the fetal position in terror.
Soon the group was back on the water, led by Jim. He was an experienced outdoorsman who had played the part of scoutmaster in the neighborhood for over twenty years. He was especially excited for this group of 15-17 year old boys because of their excellent physical condition and fearless nature.
Bringing up the rear was 26-year-old Tim Treft. He loved being with the boys as it took him back to his days of scouthood. As assistant scoutmaster the responsibility of manning the equipment raft fell on him. All of the food, cooking equipment, tents, and backpacks were in the raft with him.
When the sun started to set, the boys set up camp and began cooking their tin-foil dinners in the campfire.
“What’ve you got in your dinner, Matt?” Sam said, trying to strike up some dinner conversation.
“Ground beef, cheesy potatoes, and some veggies. You?”
“Barbeque chicken, rice, beans—
“Beans!?” the whole troop moaned, “You’re gonna stink up the tent!”
~~~~
The next morning went similar to the day before; the boys joked and raced and soaked themselves to the bone. When the boys stopped for lunch, Sam piped up,
“So, when do we get to some white water Jim?”
“When your mom gets here to hold your hand.” Matt joked.
After examining the map, Jim said, “Looks like the first rapids are about a mile from where we are now.”
This was met with massive cheers from the boys.
“Hang on.” Jim said, “We’ve got to review the procedure of taking on ra—
“Ah come on, Jim! We’ve been over it a thousand times! Aim for gaps, take it slow, watch for obstacles, lean back, we know! Please can we go?”
“Alright, but everyone be careful, we don’t want an accident.” Jim warned.
“And no crying, Sam.” Matt added.
“Alright, I’ll see what I can do.” Sam joked back.
Sam Brinkhart yawned in the mid-80 degree weather Tuesday morning as he paddled his kayak towards the bank of the Snake River. The local scout troop was on a five-day river run in southern Idaho. Sam struggled out of his kayak on the shore and walked up the bank to wait for his turn in the small latrine. As he stretched out his somewhat cramped legs he chatted with his buddies.
“So Matt, I’m thinkin’ you’ll be the first one to eat it.” Sam joked.
“Yeah right. My money’s on you.” Matt responded. It was the extreme unlikelihood of either scenario, which made everyone in the group laugh. Matt and Sam were by far the most athletic boys in the troop, and both had picked up the skill of kayaking with abnormal ease.
“In fact, I’ll bet your tube gets caught on someone’s oar and you fall in.” Matt added. Matt was referring to Sam’s insulin pump. Sam had been diagnosed with diabetes when he was twelve. He was one of the shortest members of the group. He had dark brown hair and a deceptively scrawny build; everyone knew that Matt was the only boy in the troop who Sam couldn’t out-muscle. His genuine friendliness and easy-going nature made it easy to kid with him, as Matt enjoyed doing frequently.
Matt was a state champion wrestler in the 198 weight class and looked the part of tough guy. His high cheekbones, sunken eyes and cauliflower ear were enough to make any physical competitor curl into the fetal position in terror.
Soon the group was back on the water, led by Jim. He was an experienced outdoorsman who had played the part of scoutmaster in the neighborhood for over twenty years. He was especially excited for this group of 15-17 year old boys because of their excellent physical condition and fearless nature.
Bringing up the rear was 26-year-old Tim Treft. He loved being with the boys as it took him back to his days of scouthood. As assistant scoutmaster the responsibility of manning the equipment raft fell on him. All of the food, cooking equipment, tents, and backpacks were in the raft with him.
When the sun started to set, the boys set up camp and began cooking their tin-foil dinners in the campfire.
“What’ve you got in your dinner, Matt?” Sam said, trying to strike up some dinner conversation.
“Ground beef, cheesy potatoes, and some veggies. You?”
“Barbeque chicken, rice, beans—
“Beans!?” the whole troop moaned, “You’re gonna stink up the tent!”
~~~~
The next morning went similar to the day before; the boys joked and raced and soaked themselves to the bone. When the boys stopped for lunch, Sam piped up,
“So, when do we get to some white water Jim?”
“When your mom gets here to hold your hand.” Matt joked.
After examining the map, Jim said, “Looks like the first rapids are about a mile from where we are now.”
This was met with massive cheers from the boys.
“Hang on.” Jim said, “We’ve got to review the procedure of taking on ra—
“Ah come on, Jim! We’ve been over it a thousand times! Aim for gaps, take it slow, watch for obstacles, lean back, we know! Please can we go?”
“Alright, but everyone be careful, we don’t want an accident.” Jim warned.
“And no crying, Sam.” Matt added.
“Alright, I’ll see what I can do.” Sam joked back.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Why They Will Always Be The Little Brother...
Let's say your little brother hides in the back seat of your car and tags along on a date. You are extremely irritated when he pops out of back seat and drenches you with his fully loaded super soaker. You are forced to turn around and take him home and change your clothes and you miss the movie you were going to see. Why might he have done this?
1. He needs attention.
2. He thinks it'll make him cool.
3. He knows that you're too nice to beat the crap out of him for it.
4. He thinks he's funny
5. He just flat-out enjoys being a pain in the rear.
Let's say that a bunch of Utah fans deck themselves out in Utah apparel, show up to the BYU vs. Utah basketball game at the Marriot Center and decide to show up early and force their way into the BYU student section.
Why might they have done this?
1. They need attention.
2. They think it would make them cool.
3. They know BYU fans are too nice to beat the crap out of them.
4. They think they're funny.
5. They just flat-out enjoy being a pain in the butt.
The first story didn't happen. The second did. I'm actually not upset by it at all. I'm just pointing out that Utah fans can't get upset by being referred to as BYU's "little brother" and still pull stunts like that.
I know I'm a little late, but GO COUGS!
1. He needs attention.
2. He thinks it'll make him cool.
3. He knows that you're too nice to beat the crap out of him for it.
4. He thinks he's funny
5. He just flat-out enjoys being a pain in the rear.
Let's say that a bunch of Utah fans deck themselves out in Utah apparel, show up to the BYU vs. Utah basketball game at the Marriot Center and decide to show up early and force their way into the BYU student section.
Why might they have done this?
1. They need attention.
2. They think it would make them cool.
3. They know BYU fans are too nice to beat the crap out of them.
4. They think they're funny.
5. They just flat-out enjoy being a pain in the butt.
The first story didn't happen. The second did. I'm actually not upset by it at all. I'm just pointing out that Utah fans can't get upset by being referred to as BYU's "little brother" and still pull stunts like that.
I know I'm a little late, but GO COUGS!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Blog Review
Today in creative writing, we basically had free time to write whatever we wanted. My creative juices weren't flowing at all, so I decided to look back on my early days of blogging. I basically read everything I've ever posted. And in the end, although there was a lot of junky stuff, it was very apparent that my blog has declined in quality and popularity in the last year or so. Hopefully, I'll come up with a great idea for a short story in the next day or two that I can start posting to jump start this blog.
After reading everything, I realized that I never did post any pictures of my broken nose that I got last May. So, here it is. Keep in mind that this was immediately after the InstaCare cleaned me up. As in no shower, no water. I look pretty out of it and hideous to be perfectly honest. But that's all right, you guys know how attractive I normally am ;) jk.
and just for good measure, I'll add an awesome photo of me :)
After reading everything, I realized that I never did post any pictures of my broken nose that I got last May. So, here it is. Keep in mind that this was immediately after the InstaCare cleaned me up. As in no shower, no water. I look pretty out of it and hideous to be perfectly honest. But that's all right, you guys know how attractive I normally am ;) jk.
and just for good measure, I'll add an awesome photo of me :)
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Josh's Almost Alphabet of Alliteration
Auntie Anne answers Adam's apathy with adoration.
Big bad British boys bring bright bristles to the board.
Cowardly cackling Chris cries and croaks on the coaster.
Dark dungeons destroy dumb dimples.
Every egg examines each and every entity.
Four funny fingers find fifteen flapjacks.
Gallons of gurgling gruel gave giddy girls gleety gloom.
Hundreds of huge hungry hippos hurled humble humorists at Harry.
Illustrious images issue inheritances.
Jealous jaguars jab jackals jubilantly.
Klutzy koalas kindle Karma's kiss.
The last legend of eleven lavalavas leave lasting legacies.
Millions of meticulous machetes make major maladjustments to manic mandrills.
No Nates need nice nights.
Obviously obtrusive ocelots organize ominous oranges.
Plenty of purple panthers pry pickles from pasty pans.
Quickly quieting queens quit the quizzes.
Red rumbling rhinos restrict righteous Ron from reading about rascals.
Slimy sloths sing sweetly in the sunshine.
Tiny tots tire terribly.
Under Uncle Ud's umbrella you understand.
Victorious Vikings vitally view volatile vipers.
Wispy walruses weigh wimpy whiskers.
Existential executives exempt expectant experts.
Yacking yacks yell at young yodelers.
Zealous Zane zaps zero zebras.
Please excuse the lack of commas.
Big bad British boys bring bright bristles to the board.
Cowardly cackling Chris cries and croaks on the coaster.
Dark dungeons destroy dumb dimples.
Every egg examines each and every entity.
Four funny fingers find fifteen flapjacks.
Gallons of gurgling gruel gave giddy girls gleety gloom.
Hundreds of huge hungry hippos hurled humble humorists at Harry.
Illustrious images issue inheritances.
Jealous jaguars jab jackals jubilantly.
Klutzy koalas kindle Karma's kiss.
The last legend of eleven lavalavas leave lasting legacies.
Millions of meticulous machetes make major maladjustments to manic mandrills.
No Nates need nice nights.
Obviously obtrusive ocelots organize ominous oranges.
Plenty of purple panthers pry pickles from pasty pans.
Quickly quieting queens quit the quizzes.
Red rumbling rhinos restrict righteous Ron from reading about rascals.
Slimy sloths sing sweetly in the sunshine.
Tiny tots tire terribly.
Under Uncle Ud's umbrella you understand.
Victorious Vikings vitally view volatile vipers.
Wispy walruses weigh wimpy whiskers.
Existential executives exempt expectant experts.
Yacking yacks yell at young yodelers.
Zealous Zane zaps zero zebras.
Please excuse the lack of commas.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Story results
Sorry that it has been more like 2 weeks. After reading all of your stories I felt like I couldn't really pick one that was better than all the others. So I've posted them here, in no particular order, for your enjoyment. For some reason blogger isn't allowing me to change fonts or anything, so i can't emphasize the inserted words, although you should be able to tell which ones were changed :)
Kate’s
Once upon a time lived the tricky Brian Family. Matt and Louie lived sweetly with their 4 sandy children: a crunchy 16year old named Paul, a creamy 200 year old named David, a freezing 45 year old named Brent, and a hot 1 year old named Freddie.
One radical day the Brians decided to take a difficult vacation. Matt, being the adventurous type, decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but -34 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Paul decided to bring a super toothbrush, David some powerful scissors, Brent a tough machete, and Freddie a realistic blanket.
After quickly jumping in the car and driving 89 miles, the Brians met the first of many obstacles on their innovative vacation. In the middle of the road stood a wild gnu. “Just scrub it to death with my toothbrush!” Paul suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. And so they did, leaving the curly gnu utterly defeated.
20000 more miles down the road, they met a fancy, horrendous, scary beatle, which was charging their car snappily. “Chop its face with my scissors!” shouted David. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. And so they did, leaving the beatle utterly defeated.
Finally the Brians reached their destination, a ghost-like, savage lake called Rough Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: smooth, ruddy bananas, and rowdy tacos. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Brent awoke sorely at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a royal, rugged, rumpled frog standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Brent, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to get your back,” the frog responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Brent hurled his rash machete at the sad frog, leaving it utterly defeated. The next day, the Brian family burned a breakfast of sacrilegious oatmeal and sadistic rice. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go skiing.
After skiing for only 23 dollars, the Brians headed home. On their way home, however, they met a sagacious trout. “Just hang by its neck, with my sagging blanket!” yelled Freddie. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. So they did, leaving the saintly trout utterly defeated. Soon the Brians were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Sean’s
Once upon a time lived the fantastic Billy Family. Bob and Mary lived rapidly with their 4 bulky children: a pleasant 44.324234year old named Sally, a cowardly 1 year old named Antonio, an angelic 1 billion and 1 year old named Jecepe, and a grand ½ year old named Dave.
One flashy day the Billy family decided to take a bold vacation. Bob, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 65 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Sally decided to bring an obese Pillow, Antonio a pudgy ipod, Jecepe a vibrant stop sign, and Dave a picturesque clock. A
fter daily jumping in the car and driving 3 miles, the Billys met the first of many obstacles on their juicy vacation. In the middle of the road stood a boring Liger. “Beat it with my Pillow!” Sally suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. And so they did, leaving the melodic Liger utterly defeated.
144 more miles down the road, they met some weak, turqoise, fabulous ants, which were charging their car happily. “Just throw my ipod at their faces!” shouted Antonio. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. And so they did, leaving the ants utterly defeated.
Finally the Billys reached their destination, a fleshy, wimpy lake called brown Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: snotty, hard Apple pie, and bloated bananas. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Jecepe awoke pronto at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a creamy, spicy, juicy dinosaur standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Jecepe, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to make your bed,” the dinosaur responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Jecepe hurled his flaky stop sign at the peculiar dinosaur, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Billy family burned a breakfast of wacky mashed potatoes and gravy and frustrated pizza. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go play Badmitten. After playing Badmitten for only 271 dollars, the Billys headed home.
On their way home, however, they met a pink bunny. “Just decapitate it, with my pasty clock!” yelled Dave. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. So they did, leaving the balloonish bunny utterly defeated. Soon the Billys were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Grandma’s
Once upon a time lived the Smooth Orson Family. Juan and Juanita lived haphazardly with their 4 gargantuan children: a measly 1k year old named Jeramiah, a finicky 24 year old named Felipe, an abundant 7 year old named Fernando, and a loose 300 year old named Miaria.
One floppy day the Orsons decided to take an arrogant vacation. Juan, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 1 change of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Jeramiah decided to bring a widening purse, Felipe a fast-moving tool box, Fernando a wobbly ladder, and Miaria a strong radio.
After scarcely jumping in the car and driving 39 miles, the Orson met the first of many obstacles on their fragrant vacation. In the middle of the road stood a loosey-goosey snake. “Why don’t we just suffocate it with my purse?” Jeramiah suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. And so they did, leaving the ancient snake utterly defeated.
84 more miles down the road, they met an adorable, winsome, affable old man, who was charging their car reluctantly. “Just kick my tool box at its face!” shouted Felipe. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. And so they did, leaving the old man utterly defeated.
Finally the Orsons reached their destination, a mean-spirited, willy-nilly lake called Rare Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: unassuming, worldly-wise chips, and street-smart yogurt. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Fernando awoke blindly at 3 o’clock in the morning to see an innocent, mind-mannered, evocative squirrel standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Fernando, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to blow your nose,” the squirrel responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Fernando hurled his fragrant ladder at the smothering squirrel, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Orson family burned a breakfast of winning lettuce and downcast marinara sauce. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go sky diving. After sky diving for only 65 dollars, the Orsons headed home. On their way home, however, they met a numb butterfly. “Just smash it with my abominable radio!” yelled Miaria. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. So they did, leaving the frigid butterfly utterly defeated. Soon the Orsons were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Matt’s
Once upon a time lived the cowardly Valentine Family. Waldo and Juliet lived mourningly with their 4 giant children: a smokin’ 8 year old named Dick, a flabby 13 year old named Rafael, a chewy 21 year old named Matt, and a fluffy 33 year old named Eduardo.
One cuddly day the Valentines decided to take an drunk vacation. Waldo, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 45 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Dick decided to bring a crazy Cell phone, Rafael a clumsy belt, Matt a gay beanie, and Eduardo an elusive printer.
After proudly jumping in the car and driving 66 miles, the Valentines met the first of many obstacles on their wicked vacation. In the middle of the road stood a flirtatious Matt. “Why don’t we just stun it with my Cell phone?” Dick suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. And so they did, leaving the happy Matt utterly defeated.
99 more miles down the road, they met an angry, hot, attracive llama, which was charging their car righteously. “Just whip its face with my belt!” shouted Rafael. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. And so they did, leaving the llama utterly defeated. Finally the Valentines reached their destination, a beautiful, sexy lake called sweet Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: strong, big Peaches, and sleepy gouda cheese. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Matt awoke wonderfully at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a greedy, buff, cocky parrot standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Matt, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to Poop your pants,” the parrot responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Matt hurled his stuck-up beanie at the lovely parrot, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Valentine family burned a breakfast of sick lettuce and timid hot dogs. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go do Yoga. After doing Yoga for only 101 dollars, the Valentines headed home. On their way home, however, they met a puffy worm. “Just smash its neck, with my brave printer!” yelled Eduardo. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. So they did, leaving the blue worm utterly defeated. Soon the Valentines were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Dad's
Once upon a time lived the warm Bin Laden Family. Sadam Hussein Bin Laden and Barack Obama Bin Laden lived astonishingly with their 4 fuzzy children: an enormous 3 million year old named Moses Bin Laden, an irritating 7 and a half year old named Ryan Seacrest Bin Laden, a sickening 53 year old named Chuck Norris Bin Laden, and a fast 273 about a billion year old named Mike Tyson Bin Laden who they called Tyson.
One glitzy day the Bin Ladens decided to take a flighty vacation. Sadam, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but about a billion changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Moses decided to bring a serious iPod Touch, Ryan a contemplative garage-door opener, Chuck a green screwdriver, and Tyson a frigid bowling ball.
After poorly jumping in the car and driving 6 miles, the Bin Ladens met the first of many obstacles on their heavy vacation. In the middle of the road stood a mushy lobster. “Why don’t we just kill it with my iPod Touch?” Moses suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. And so they did, leaving the eye-popping lobster utterly defeated. 57.73 more miles down the road, they met a ripped, slanted, bumpy umpa lumpa, which was charging their car longingly. “Just fire my garage-door opener at its face!” shouted Ryan. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. And so they did, leaving the umpa lumpa utterly defeated.
Finally the Bin Ladens reached their destination, a scruffy, toe-curling lake called fascinating Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: chunky, watered-down taco salad, and slimy macaroni salad. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Chuck awoke dejectedly at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a fat, childish, blood-curdling wolverine standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Chuck nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to clean your ears,” the wolverine responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Judas hurled his purple screwdriver at the fearful wolverine, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Bin Laden family burned a breakfast of blue-ish tuna salad and lightning-quick potato salad. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go snorkeling. After snorkeling for only 87 dollars, the Bin Ladens headed home. On their way home, however, they met a prickly jolly green giant. “Just smash it, with my blind bowling ball!” yelled Tyson. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. So they did, leaving the hairy jolly green giant utterly defeated. Soon the Bin Ladens were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Kate’s
Once upon a time lived the tricky Brian Family. Matt and Louie lived sweetly with their 4 sandy children: a crunchy 16year old named Paul, a creamy 200 year old named David, a freezing 45 year old named Brent, and a hot 1 year old named Freddie.
One radical day the Brians decided to take a difficult vacation. Matt, being the adventurous type, decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but -34 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Paul decided to bring a super toothbrush, David some powerful scissors, Brent a tough machete, and Freddie a realistic blanket.
After quickly jumping in the car and driving 89 miles, the Brians met the first of many obstacles on their innovative vacation. In the middle of the road stood a wild gnu. “Just scrub it to death with my toothbrush!” Paul suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. And so they did, leaving the curly gnu utterly defeated.
20000 more miles down the road, they met a fancy, horrendous, scary beatle, which was charging their car snappily. “Chop its face with my scissors!” shouted David. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. And so they did, leaving the beatle utterly defeated.
Finally the Brians reached their destination, a ghost-like, savage lake called Rough Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: smooth, ruddy bananas, and rowdy tacos. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Brent awoke sorely at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a royal, rugged, rumpled frog standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Brent, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to get your back,” the frog responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Brent hurled his rash machete at the sad frog, leaving it utterly defeated. The next day, the Brian family burned a breakfast of sacrilegious oatmeal and sadistic rice. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go skiing.
After skiing for only 23 dollars, the Brians headed home. On their way home, however, they met a sagacious trout. “Just hang by its neck, with my sagging blanket!” yelled Freddie. “It’s worth a shot,” said Matt. So they did, leaving the saintly trout utterly defeated. Soon the Brians were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Sean’s
Once upon a time lived the fantastic Billy Family. Bob and Mary lived rapidly with their 4 bulky children: a pleasant 44.324234year old named Sally, a cowardly 1 year old named Antonio, an angelic 1 billion and 1 year old named Jecepe, and a grand ½ year old named Dave.
One flashy day the Billy family decided to take a bold vacation. Bob, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 65 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Sally decided to bring an obese Pillow, Antonio a pudgy ipod, Jecepe a vibrant stop sign, and Dave a picturesque clock. A
fter daily jumping in the car and driving 3 miles, the Billys met the first of many obstacles on their juicy vacation. In the middle of the road stood a boring Liger. “Beat it with my Pillow!” Sally suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. And so they did, leaving the melodic Liger utterly defeated.
144 more miles down the road, they met some weak, turqoise, fabulous ants, which were charging their car happily. “Just throw my ipod at their faces!” shouted Antonio. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. And so they did, leaving the ants utterly defeated.
Finally the Billys reached their destination, a fleshy, wimpy lake called brown Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: snotty, hard Apple pie, and bloated bananas. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Jecepe awoke pronto at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a creamy, spicy, juicy dinosaur standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Jecepe, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to make your bed,” the dinosaur responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Jecepe hurled his flaky stop sign at the peculiar dinosaur, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Billy family burned a breakfast of wacky mashed potatoes and gravy and frustrated pizza. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go play Badmitten. After playing Badmitten for only 271 dollars, the Billys headed home.
On their way home, however, they met a pink bunny. “Just decapitate it, with my pasty clock!” yelled Dave. “It’s worth a shot,” said Bob. So they did, leaving the balloonish bunny utterly defeated. Soon the Billys were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Grandma’s
Once upon a time lived the Smooth Orson Family. Juan and Juanita lived haphazardly with their 4 gargantuan children: a measly 1k year old named Jeramiah, a finicky 24 year old named Felipe, an abundant 7 year old named Fernando, and a loose 300 year old named Miaria.
One floppy day the Orsons decided to take an arrogant vacation. Juan, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 1 change of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Jeramiah decided to bring a widening purse, Felipe a fast-moving tool box, Fernando a wobbly ladder, and Miaria a strong radio.
After scarcely jumping in the car and driving 39 miles, the Orson met the first of many obstacles on their fragrant vacation. In the middle of the road stood a loosey-goosey snake. “Why don’t we just suffocate it with my purse?” Jeramiah suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. And so they did, leaving the ancient snake utterly defeated.
84 more miles down the road, they met an adorable, winsome, affable old man, who was charging their car reluctantly. “Just kick my tool box at its face!” shouted Felipe. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. And so they did, leaving the old man utterly defeated.
Finally the Orsons reached their destination, a mean-spirited, willy-nilly lake called Rare Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: unassuming, worldly-wise chips, and street-smart yogurt. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Fernando awoke blindly at 3 o’clock in the morning to see an innocent, mind-mannered, evocative squirrel standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Fernando, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to blow your nose,” the squirrel responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Fernando hurled his fragrant ladder at the smothering squirrel, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Orson family burned a breakfast of winning lettuce and downcast marinara sauce. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go sky diving. After sky diving for only 65 dollars, the Orsons headed home. On their way home, however, they met a numb butterfly. “Just smash it with my abominable radio!” yelled Miaria. “It’s worth a shot,” said Juan. So they did, leaving the frigid butterfly utterly defeated. Soon the Orsons were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Matt’s
Once upon a time lived the cowardly Valentine Family. Waldo and Juliet lived mourningly with their 4 giant children: a smokin’ 8 year old named Dick, a flabby 13 year old named Rafael, a chewy 21 year old named Matt, and a fluffy 33 year old named Eduardo.
One cuddly day the Valentines decided to take an drunk vacation. Waldo, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but 45 changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Dick decided to bring a crazy Cell phone, Rafael a clumsy belt, Matt a gay beanie, and Eduardo an elusive printer.
After proudly jumping in the car and driving 66 miles, the Valentines met the first of many obstacles on their wicked vacation. In the middle of the road stood a flirtatious Matt. “Why don’t we just stun it with my Cell phone?” Dick suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. And so they did, leaving the happy Matt utterly defeated.
99 more miles down the road, they met an angry, hot, attracive llama, which was charging their car righteously. “Just whip its face with my belt!” shouted Rafael. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. And so they did, leaving the llama utterly defeated. Finally the Valentines reached their destination, a beautiful, sexy lake called sweet Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: strong, big Peaches, and sleepy gouda cheese. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Matt awoke wonderfully at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a greedy, buff, cocky parrot standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Matt, nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to Poop your pants,” the parrot responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Matt hurled his stuck-up beanie at the lovely parrot, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Valentine family burned a breakfast of sick lettuce and timid hot dogs. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go do Yoga. After doing Yoga for only 101 dollars, the Valentines headed home. On their way home, however, they met a puffy worm. “Just smash its neck, with my brave printer!” yelled Eduardo. “It’s worth a shot,” said Waldo. So they did, leaving the blue worm utterly defeated. Soon the Valentines were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Dad's
Once upon a time lived the warm Bin Laden Family. Sadam Hussein Bin Laden and Barack Obama Bin Laden lived astonishingly with their 4 fuzzy children: an enormous 3 million year old named Moses Bin Laden, an irritating 7 and a half year old named Ryan Seacrest Bin Laden, a sickening 53 year old named Chuck Norris Bin Laden, and a fast 273 about a billion year old named Mike Tyson Bin Laden who they called Tyson.
One glitzy day the Bin Ladens decided to take a flighty vacation. Sadam, being the adventurous type decided to allow each member of the family to bring nothing but about a billion changes of clothes and 1 other item of their choice. Moses decided to bring a serious iPod Touch, Ryan a contemplative garage-door opener, Chuck a green screwdriver, and Tyson a frigid bowling ball.
After poorly jumping in the car and driving 6 miles, the Bin Ladens met the first of many obstacles on their heavy vacation. In the middle of the road stood a mushy lobster. “Why don’t we just kill it with my iPod Touch?” Moses suggested. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. And so they did, leaving the eye-popping lobster utterly defeated. 57.73 more miles down the road, they met a ripped, slanted, bumpy umpa lumpa, which was charging their car longingly. “Just fire my garage-door opener at its face!” shouted Ryan. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. And so they did, leaving the umpa lumpa utterly defeated.
Finally the Bin Ladens reached their destination, a scruffy, toe-curling lake called fascinating Lake. They quickly set up camp, running out of precious daylight due to the unforeseen obstacles along the way. Soon they had dinner: chunky, watered-down taco salad, and slimy macaroni salad. Although none of them said anything, everyone felt that, as bill and ted might put it, “Something strange was afoot at the circle K” as they settled down to get some rest.
Chuck awoke dejectedly at 3 o’clock in the morning to see a fat, childish, blood-curdling wolverine standing outside the tent window, looking down at him. “Well hello,” said Chuck nervously. “Hello, I’ve come to clean your ears,” the wolverine responded. “Oh, well in that case, take this!” and Judas hurled his purple screwdriver at the fearful wolverine, leaving it utterly defeated.
The next day, the Bin Laden family burned a breakfast of blue-ish tuna salad and lightning-quick potato salad. Recognizing the bad omen at once, they decided to call the vacation off and go snorkeling. After snorkeling for only 87 dollars, the Bin Ladens headed home. On their way home, however, they met a prickly jolly green giant. “Just smash it, with my blind bowling ball!” yelled Tyson. “It’s worth a shot,” said Sadam. So they did, leaving the hairy jolly green giant utterly defeated. Soon the Bin Ladens were home, safe and free from these strange happenings. And they lived happily every after.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Fill in the Blank
Some of you may remember when I used to do these. If you don't here's how it works: I have already written a short story that is "story on the ceiling" worthy for you crowleys (it's weird and is not exactly a page turner for you non-crowleys). I have counted up the replaceable adjectives, verbs, adverbs, etc and they are as follows:
34 adjectives
4 adverbs
7 names
8 numbers
4 items
4 food items
4 living, moving things
1 phrase in this format: Verb your noun (i.e. Suck your blood, eat your food, read your book, slice your apple)
1 recreational activity
Here's where this process is different than in the past: I want everyone to provide me with the previously stated parts of speech. In one week (ish), I will fill in the blanks with your provided elements, leaving me with multiple stories. The best story (as judged by me and my siblings) will then be posted for your reading pleasure. Hopefully this works out how I'm envisioning.
34 adjectives
4 adverbs
7 names
8 numbers
4 items
4 food items
4 living, moving things
1 phrase in this format: Verb your noun (i.e. Suck your blood, eat your food, read your book, slice your apple)
1 recreational activity
Here's where this process is different than in the past: I want everyone to provide me with the previously stated parts of speech. In one week (ish), I will fill in the blanks with your provided elements, leaving me with multiple stories. The best story (as judged by me and my siblings) will then be posted for your reading pleasure. Hopefully this works out how I'm envisioning.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Sacrament Talk
Well first off I wanted to apologize for my flakiness of writing on this blog. Second I want to thank you for coming back even after I abandoned your trust. And third I will explain what this post is: I gave a talk today in church and decided to re-write the dating section of the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet to fit my topic of home teaching. I got a kick out of it as many of the ward members did, so now you get to see it for yourself. :)
In the church, home teaching can help members develop lasting friendships and in some extremely rare cases, find an eternal companion. Even those members with exceptionally high standards need to be home taught in order to fulfill the Lord’s commandment to “visit the home of each member” found in D&C section 20. Home teachers are responsible to teach their assigned families about standards such as honor, virtue, the sanctity of the priesthood, and the sanctity of womanhood.
Begin home teaching when you are 14 years old as assigned by a priesthood leader. Home teaching can lead to immortality, help members meet new people, and give you good experiences. Not all teenagers want to home teach, but they need to. Many young people do not home teach during their teen years because they aren’t interested, avoid opportunities, or simply want to delay forming serious relationships. These aren’t good excuses, however, and friendships developed through home teaching can and should be made at every age.
When you go home teaching, go in your assigned companionships and to your assigned families, not to your best friends house. Strive to go on multiple home teaching visits to the same families throughout the year. Perform service for you home teaching families. Plan lessons that are positive and inexpensive. Do things that will help you and your families remain close to the spirit of the Lord.
In the church, home teaching can help members develop lasting friendships and in some extremely rare cases, find an eternal companion. Even those members with exceptionally high standards need to be home taught in order to fulfill the Lord’s commandment to “visit the home of each member” found in D&C section 20. Home teachers are responsible to teach their assigned families about standards such as honor, virtue, the sanctity of the priesthood, and the sanctity of womanhood.
Begin home teaching when you are 14 years old as assigned by a priesthood leader. Home teaching can lead to immortality, help members meet new people, and give you good experiences. Not all teenagers want to home teach, but they need to. Many young people do not home teach during their teen years because they aren’t interested, avoid opportunities, or simply want to delay forming serious relationships. These aren’t good excuses, however, and friendships developed through home teaching can and should be made at every age.
When you go home teaching, go in your assigned companionships and to your assigned families, not to your best friends house. Strive to go on multiple home teaching visits to the same families throughout the year. Perform service for you home teaching families. Plan lessons that are positive and inexpensive. Do things that will help you and your families remain close to the spirit of the Lord.
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