Peg, Peggy, Pegalina, Pegalie, Pegalicious

My new {old} goal

2012-02-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

I have always struggled with my weight. Always. From being made fun of as a kid for being fat, to eventually being diagnosed with diabetes at age 26. Always.
I believe that I can change, and have found a new source of inspiration:
I am reading this:

I love that he addresses the emotional aspect of weight loss. So, here I am, sharing my goal with the world....

Thrifting is my addiction....

2012-01-31T15:17:00.000-08:00

I was driving along the other day, thinking about life, and noticed the car behind me. It had a Marine license plate, just like my Dad's. It was a CRV, just like my Dad's.... wait for it... it was my Dad! Now, I was a good 30 miles away from home... and surprise, we were both heading to one of my favorite thrift stores. {I don't think the apple falls too far from the tree, huh?}
This is why I keep coming back...
In October, I bought this little silverware caddy on a $6.99 splurge...

it was still in the box.
I sold it on ebay for $65.00

Then, I took my winnings, and bought this:

can I just say that I have never been so in love with a piece of furniture in my life! It was a steal for $130. - but it was half price furniture day, so I got it at a giveaway price of $65.

Yes, I am a thrift store addict in a not so terrible way :)

Time...

2012-01-19T18:24:00.000-08:00

I am writing today to say that I am grateful for time. I feel like I hit rock bottom here in PA. I have my family here and that is it. No friends, very little work and a lot of time. Yet, I feel that Heavenly Father has blessed me with this time, as a way of humbling me and as a way to really seek repentance. It has been a time where my heart has changed and where I have needed to search the scriptures regularly. I am grateful for this time.... :)

bitterness kills, gratitude heals

2012-01-16T17:26:00.000-08:00

I will admit it! I have become a bitter old maid! Yes, when I see engagement posts on facebook, I want to gag; When I hear testimonials of how great their husband is for picking up the kitchen, etc... I just roll my eyes. I have let my bitterness shadow my heart and control my actions.
I will go back a few years. I am the girl who always dreamed of marriage and a huge family. I am the product of divorce, who dreamed of a marriage without all of the fighting. It almost become this idea to me, that if I was good enough, I would be blessed with a husband.
So as the years go by, and by and by.... the bitterness has built.
It has to stop!!!
So, I have decided to be greatful for all things single! I need to recognize the great things in my life as a single person...
to begin with...
free time
the time to earn my education
flirting... shamelessly :)
never having to share a bed
no one to answer to
freedom
even as I write this, I feel pathetic writing about this.... but ...

What do you at 2 A.M.

2012-01-14T23:24:00.000-08:00

I am having a rough night... and tomorrow, well may be rough for me. I am laying in bed, listening to my Dad, snoring in the next room, thinking "this is my life?!?" I just woke up from a dream of my former life and just can't figure out where to go from here.
What do I do? Raid Dad's candy stash {which usually is not a temptation, since it is all dark chocolate and holds no joy for me!} and blogsurf... :) what else do you do at 2 A.M.?
I am having fun, adoring lives of much more contentment than mine.... especially with the Valentine's decor {love}! When I come across this idea...
http://housetalkn.blogspot.com/2011/07/pay-it-forwardget-your-gnome-on.html
My purpose in life has once been renewed and visions of a cupid gnome are dancing through my mind....

Time

2011-10-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Pennsylvania on Thursday, September 15th at around 9P.M. I insisted on unpacking the car right away as a sign that I wanted my new life to start now. Now, has now dragged on....

Inspiration... my Dad has run a 5K pretty much every Saturday that I have been here.... the pathetic thing is that I can not run a 5K yet... I am working on it. I go running around here about 2 -3 times a week.
Now, it has been good to see my family. I have loved to be able to just drop by.
I have also seen that it is also good to be able to leave....
not that I do not love them.... but sometimes it becomes too much :)
I have been substituting for a Dual Immersion Spanish School and I started working for Eddie Bauer.
I just have a little too much free time....
I am working on that.

Its amazing how life changes like that !

2011-10-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

A mixture of circumstance, a little homesickness and a twinge of crazy has brought me back to my homestate of Pennsylvania.
Well, I will start with my last day in Utah. I totally planned on just packing up and leaving - but well, it took a long time to get ready. I owe a big thank you to a ward member, Carolyn, my roommate, AnnaLaura, and some good friends, Melinda and Angie. They made a number of a number of trips to the D.I., getting rid of everything in my apartment. So that by 10 P.M. my apartment was finally cleared out.

Then Melinda was generous enough to let me stay the night at her place. Oh, Melinda, it was our last night together. We have spent years living together: sharing adventures along the way.
The trip was an adventure..... my car is, well, troubled and there were times that I would think... oh, if it will just make it half way...... See, it is burning oil... and it took just about as much oil as it did gas. Seriously!!! Every 100 miles I had to put a quart of oil in.... the whole 2000 mile trip!

I left on a beautiful Sunday morning.... and really, Utah, the construction sent me off. There was a detour, then construction on the detour....Agghhh. Day one took forever.... but it led me to Lafayette, Colorado, to see my good friend Tammy and her kiddos!
Day 2 well, it was fun with the Burton Family. Oh, I had a a good time. Desty showed me local park in the morning... can I say, don't you just love playing at the park! I had a blast chasing her around, sliding down the slides and all!
I tagged along for the day as she went to bike class.
The sad thing is Desty had some medical issues later in the day. Well, here is more info about Desty and her issues...http://www.wingsfordestiny.blogspot.com/

Day 3 started out early, but was a beautiful drive through Colorado and into Kansas. Kansas was a nice drive, but long.... taking most of the day. My plan was to stay in Topeka for the night.... but well, when I arrived, all of the hotel rooms were full. I mean, really? Topeka? So, I decided to just push on and drive through the night..... but a big thunderstorm halted those plans... and I ended up stopping in Kansas City. Then, there was a big accident in the morning that literally had traffic at a stand still. All to bring me to Indianapolis by nightfall and stopping to see the Cheney family.

Wow. I met Robyn at Ricks like 14 years ago. How funny to see her now, married to a great man, with 5 beautiful children. I had to say, I love her little ones! How could you not, they spoiled me with attention! I just wish that I could have spent more time with them.
Day 5 left me anxious for home. Indiana, into Ohio..... with me making a lot more pit stops from sheer boredom. I drove into Pennsylvania around 4 P.M. {yeahhhhh!!!!}
Now, my Dad moved since I was a teenager, to a little town called Aspers, just outside of Gettysburg. It is farm country. I mapquested exactly how to get there, even though I have been there on trips home in the past.I had to call my Dad to make sure I drove up to the right house!
Wow! I am so grateful that my car made it all this way! I am so excited to be home!

My new opportunity!

2011-03-06T11:19:00.000-08:00

This week I went to a little party where I learned about Wildtree - actually, I fell in love with Wildtree! Wildtree was founded on the premise that food should be natural, nutritious, delicious and easy to prepare - all at the same time. Products are made with the finest ingredients available and contain no preservatives, additives, MSGs or dyes.
The party was a tasting party, so you can sample their products ahead of time.
Interested?
Check out their products here:

I will let you know when I have my first party!

P

New Adventure

2011-03-06T10:30:00.000-08:00

Am I ready to live here ?

So, I just interviewed for a teaching position in Abu Dhabi. I really do not know if I can actually handle moving to a new country on the other side of the world. Especially with recent events in the middle east. MMMmhhhhh, is this small town girl, who has never left the country ready to leap across oceans?
P

Dad Update

2011-03-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

So, my Dad gave me a pretty big scare. Well, I tend to worry about him anyway, but the idea of surgery scared me. I talked to him the day before, and he seemed really upbeat, telling me not to worry.
The next morning, I got the text from my sister explaining that it was much more then we had thought. He was having what was known as open heart surgery. He had one of the best heart surgeons in Pennsylvania. He was using a machine called the DaVinci. This means that they did not have to crack his chest, that the machine would go in and make the repair. [technology - wow!]
The text came in at about 4:30 A.M. I cried until 8 A.M., when my students came. It was easier to put my mind to work, and put on a happy face for the kids. I could not imagine life without having my Dad there for me.
The surgery went fabulously well! He did have to have a double bypass next. {He only has two arteries coming from his heart. Interesting!} They were going to wait until the following Tuesday, but since the surgery went so well, they did it the same day.
Saturday, he was able to get moved out of the ICU and into a regular room. The fam [minus me] all visited. He called me! I was thrilled!
I was amazed by the whole experience - it came on fast, and before you knew it- he was home. He went home on Monday and is doing great!

Wake Up Call

2011-02-21T17:48:00.000-08:00

Last week I got a wake up call. My Dad called me to let me know that he is going to be operated on. Dad: who has always been healthy. The idea that he might not be around forever. I couldn't keep from crying, and I am sure he could hear it in my voice. What can I say, I love my Dad. I know that he will be okay.... but it just gives me a chance to brag....
My Dad is a family historian. He was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1978, and as soon as he dried off, he started researching his family history. This was like pre-internet days. Now he is serving a service mission, helping others with their family histories.
I love that I grew up with his example. My Grandfather died in 1980. After that, my Dad was always there for my Grandmother, Nannie. So, our summer vacations usually included reroofing Nannie's house, or her garage or building a cement wall. He shows his love through hard work.
I love that we have had time since I have been an adult to really talk to each other. Now, he has not always liked my choices. Leaving Pennsylvania was never in his plans for me. Even then, he thought I would be married within a year. {Okay maybe that had something to do with my giggly teenage years of doing young womeny type things like writing a letter to my future husband, and naming stuffed animals after my boy crushes.] But, he has always supported me. {And I think that I have always surprised him!}
So, I know that I am nervous about his surgery thing.... but I know that he will be okay..... and that I love him....

I have become a bitter old maid.

2011-01-31T20:33:00.000-08:00

In Church this week, there was a talk given on Eternal marriage. Said talk was given by, of course, a newlywed. Now, the speaker gave a beautiful talk. Yet, in the audience I just wanted to gouge my eyes out and throw up. I do believe in Eternal marraige, it is just when it is presented as this beautiful, perfect blessing that I feel like I am being presented with like a delicious cake, and yet not allowed to have any.
Now, it is not for a lack of trying. I think that I have chased every eligible bachelor in the Salt Lake City region. It is also not only the fact that I am not married. It is that marriage in my family has never been a picture of perfection.
Yet, I do not like feeling like this. I do not want to be bitter. Yet it is how I feel....
I am a bitter old maid.

Can I just say that I totally rock......

2011-01-31T18:23:00.000-08:00

Let me describe my Saturday.... After waking up and cleaning the entire house, I went running. Can I just say I ran a whole mile. WhooHooo! Now, some might say that was enough for the day, but no, I did more to save the world. I went to work, taking care of a young woman with cerebral palsy. I saved her apartment from flooding by yes, picking up the phone and calling the maintenance man. Now, as a teacher, and a caregiver, I love that I can make up any story that I want to make things fun. So, we became Cookie Banditos in reverse, and delivered homemade cookies to friends. The young woman loved it, and yes, I became the heroine again. My next act of heroic efforts was the trip to Costco. Have you ever pushed a wheelchair and dragged a cart in a packed store? Next, I literally saved the young woman from a tragic death of choking on a burrito, by giving her the heimlich. I mean this is stuff that I could not make up and would be published on the front page had it not happened while we were alone in her apartment. We then celebrated her living by riding the carousel at the SouthTowne mall.

If only you could acheive such tasks of awesomeness....

Now today I rocked by totally rocking an entire outfit from the D.I. [excluding underclothes, cause that is just gross.....]

Merry Christmas to me

2011-01-03T16:03:00.000-08:00

I have to say thank you for all of my Christmas gifts... here are just a few.
See, we have this joke in my family. I am the lucky one, because my dad hates to spend money on shipping. So, while everyone else gets a hand chosen gift from wal mart from Dad, I get a check. So this is what you bought me dad: [I love it!] I was wise in spending the money. I doubled the value by buying a groupon to Nordstrom rack. This is where I spoiled myself with gifts from Philosophy. A skincare set with cleanser, moisturizer and eye cream (trust me - I need the eye cream. I mean the song says " I get lost in your eyes" NOT "I get lost in the bags under your eyes!") I love their bubble bath as well - and I LLLOOOVVVVEEEE bubblebaths........
Don't worry Dad - I did not blow all the money on girlly things.... I also got an oil change. I put the rest of the money in my 72 hour kit. (I thought you would like that!) :)
Santa made a secret visit this year as well. Not THE Santa, but my Santa. This clever santa, who has great taste, has kept his/her identity hidden for the past 10 years! Well, like THE Santa, has a huge heart, and I love him/her with all my heart! Santa gave me a cute change purse with the letter P on front - I love the letter P! :)
I was given a gift card from my boss at my cute maid, which I am totally excited to use - from Cameo College. OOOhhh, more pampering.......
Then, the cutlers gave me a gift card for school clothes...... which is totally spoiling me, since I have not allowed myself to look at clothes for months......
I was surprised with a bottle of PINK splash from Victoria's Secret..... OMG I love it... I have to keep myself from just randomly spraying it!
Melinda gave me a sushi set..... ooohhh, fun! But, do I trust myself to actually make sushi.... or consume sushi that I made?????
My sister and mom surprised me with a package...... filled with old family photos. A collection that has been lost for like 10 years. Plus scrapbooking stuff to go with it. (Did I ever mention that my lil sister, Susan, is like the scrapbooking queen?)
Ohhhh, merry Christmas! I had so much fun this year! I hope you did too....:)

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

I had a fabulous Christmas! For the last 10 years, it has been Christmas at the Cutlers. The Cutlers have been wonderful to me. I love that they welcome everyone at Christmas as family. I love seeing their kids and grandkids. You can see the love - allover! I love their traditions.
It only makes me a twinge sad thinking of how my family could be.
Now, all I wish is that I would have taken more pictures!!! :)

New Project: Family History

2010-12-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

I love family history. I have been researching my family tree for years. Yet, in researching, I find that I have a lot of names, relationships and dates. Nothing about that person. So, this is my new project: family history with history. So, i will start with my parents, and work backwards........ here I go!

Feeling Crafty

2010-11-24T21:43:00.000-08:00

Maybe it is the Christmas spirit, or just the time off for Thanksgiving, but I am feeling my crafty side taking over me. So, these are some of the crafty things I am planning on making:
Turkeys for thanksgiving!

Thanks to theidearoom.net for the idea!
I love these reindeer pops for Christmas as well:

Plus, I am excited to get started on Christmas gifts! Happy Crafting to all of my blogging friends!!!
P:)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

2010-11-24T20:24:00.000-08:00

Its time for my annual thankful blog.....
I am so happy to have a job that I LOVE. I mean it - I love it!
I recently moved, and my new place comes with a private bathroom and a walk in closet - both of which I have never had. I LOVE THEM BOTH!!!
I am grateful for visiting teaching. I have just been assigned a new partner - who is incredibly sweet. I also have a new visiting teacher - who totally lifted my spirits on Sunday.
I love today's technology! I mean, I have always been a little behind the times... but I love my cell phone, my digital camera and blogging!
I am grateful for my family. I learn so much from them!
I am grateful for great friends - to make life fun!!!
I am grateful to be single and to have like a new crush every other day!
I am grateful for my freedom - and to live in a world where anyone can do anything that they put their mind to doing.
I am grateful for repentence and forgiveness... because lets face it - I screw up.. :)
Lets just face it - Life is Good!
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Gobble, gobble, gobble :)

Long time no blog.....

2010-11-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

I have not blogged for a little bit.... I blame it on adjusting to teaching. I love it! I am amazed at how much time I need to prepare...... I am grateful for:
1. An amazing Kindergarten teacher next door. Seriously, she helps me sooooo much!
2. A principal who is not only a fabulous principal - but also super supportive.
3. The internet - can I just say that I do not know how teachers taught without the internet at their fingertips??? I love www.kellyskindergarten.com, www.prekinders.com.
4. I have a super class! There are a few behavior problems, but really, they are great!!!
5. A super PTA. Seriously- they are wonderful. They created a school wide behavior plan - which is common among teachers - pulling cards. The great part is that they made a chart for every class. This saved me as a new teacher with practically nothing prepared when I started.

So, I am asking for some help.... I collect box tops. Any box tops would be appreciated. :) I could also use your old magazines.

Living the dream is harder than it seems... :)

The Promised Land

2010-10-01T18:57:00.000-07:00

Yes - it has finally happened! I have reached the promised land! I have been hired by Jackling Elementary to teach kindergarten. Ahhh! I love it!!!! I was offered the position on Friday and started teaching last Monday. Crazy fast, huh? I just think it is a great school, with such supportive staff, and I love, love, love it! I have been so busy this first week - and I am so proud of how I have pulled things together! This is my promised land - it will take a lot of work - but it is soooo worth it!!!!

Freecycle.com is my new bff... well maybe not b ff but gff....

2010-08-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

Last year, in getting ready for girls camp, I needed a lot of #7 tin cans. So, I found freecycle.com. It is a website where you sign up to get emails of people wanting to get rid of something or looking for something for free. So, I got my cans, but I still get emails of people getting rid of stuff. This last month, I totally lucked out....
I was given a set of China and a buffet table - and I love both! Totally free! Love it!!!

Meet my friend....:)

2010-08-23T19:41:00.000-07:00

This summer, most of my days have been spent with L [identity protected]. She has cerebral palsy and I take care of her during the day. We have had a few adventures, spent time and the park and the pool. I have grown to just love her and her personality! Like the things that make her laugh - usually silly stuff, but sometimes it is something is ironic - or even when something bad happens.

I wish I had a picture of us dancing - because that had become one thing that she laughs hysterically at! It is more like ring around the rosie - but she loves it - and I love to make her laugh!

Summer, summer, summertime.....

2010-08-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

Life has been going by so fast, and I have not blogged for a while. So here is my summertime in a nutshell....
Vegas
Considering moving home to PA.....
Romance....
Breakup and dissappointment.....
Totally committing to moving home to PA......
Moving..... to a new apartment.... but still in Utah {yeah, I am staying.}
Moving......
Moving......
Work...........
Interview..... Rejection......Interview...... rejection.....
Unpacking...........
Interview.... Rejection.... total devastation......really moving back home to PA this time......
Oops, I am staying in Utah......
Really.
School starts again... summer is closing..... some love interests appear.... and who knows how the summer will end....:)))

See the world!

2010-06-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I have been amazed by seeing some of the hotels on the strip in Las Vegas! Wow! Venice and the gondolas, Paris and the Eiffel tower, Egypt, New York, Rome, The Carribean..... there is just so much to see.... my favorite has been the Eiffel Tower.
I LOVED the waters at the Bellagio! How cool - it was like a fireworks show with water! Awesome!

Viva Las Vegas!!!!

2010-06-01T21:37:00.000-07:00

When my roomie told me she was going to Vegas for Memorial Day Weekend, my first thought was - Have fun! When she invited me along for the practically free trip - I said count me in!!!
I mean who could resist staying in a castle?

With these two ladies....

My Sister

2010-04-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to have my oldest sister, Shelly, visit in March. So here's the explanation. Shelly is 9 years older than me. She is the world's greatest sister! Well, she bore more from the family dysfunction than me. She found herself pregnant at only 16. I have always admired the fact that she had the courage to give her baby up for adoption. I have alway wondered what happened to the little boy. Well, when he contacted my sister last year, I found out that he lives in Spanish Fork, UT. Yes, here in UTAH!!!!

Shelly has loved every minute that she has been able to spend with him since she was reunited with him last May. So, she took the trip to Utah!

Its an amazing gift to have a sister. We talked and talked and talked. Then, I finally met my nephew, Noah! So cool to have met my long lost nephew AND have a family member in the state!!!!

Favorite show

2010-03-10T20:18:00.000-08:00

I have fallen in love with a new show. Make it or Break it is a show about teenage girls who are olympic level gymnasts. It is on the ABC family channel, or if you are like me and do not get cable, you can watch it on HULU. Sometimes you just need some teenage drama in your life, eh?

32!

2010-03-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

It is so easy to let birthdays get you down as you get older. I refused to do so this year. So, instead of thinking of the things that I feel I should have by this time of my life - I am going to be thankful for all the things I have experienced.... and done... and loved...
I am so grateful to have kept working and earned my Bachelor's Degree... and my teaching certificate.....
to have left home and found my own road in life
to have good friends who accept me for me
to have the opportunity to work with such great kiddos... and then be able to hand them over to mommy!
To have associations with amazing men and women who inspire me!
To be able to have trials that teach me so much.
To be able to live on such a beautiful planet, in a beautiful state, in a fun home where everyone is single.
To celebrate my life, I had a little shindig at home... and had so much fun! Included in the nights festivities, a game of kiss the frog - which is pin the tail on the donkey... just with pinning kisses on a frog. I think I proved my kissing skills by winning the game!
Happy Birthday to me!!!!!

Substituting

2010-02-21T22:53:00.000-08:00

I have been substitute teaching, in hopes that it will help me find a teaching position. It can be, well, interesting to say the least. I sub in Salt Lake, Granite and Canyons Districts to stay busy. I have even started subbing in the dreaded middle school.
Last week I was in a fourth grade class. I was up at the board when I student saw a mouse. Now, if you know me, you know that I am terrified of mice. Terrified. I kept my cool - like a good teacher should, and kept the class calm. Then, they saw the mouse head to the back of the classroom. I told them to just ignore the mouse. Then, it headed to the area of the teacher's desk, where my purse laid on the floor. The students laughed and said that the mouse crawled in my purse (uckkkkkkkk! I mean how gross!) I do not think that the mouse actually crawled in my purse - I think they said that to be funny. Needless to say, it did take me a while to actually pick my purse up to check! Oh, so much fun!

5 Dollar Deals

2010-02-21T21:40:00.000-08:00

I have some friends that are couponers. They find the greatest deals, then post them. I love it! I am not that talented myself. My talent is one hit wonders! I find great deals - on the clearance rack, DI or yard sales. I am just as proud - so I thought I would show some off..... (cause everyone takes pictures of their finds now days!)
All of these were $5.00 or under.......
I discovered Scentsy for myself at a yardsale. I got the complete package: a candle warmer, the plug in one and five scents. MMmmmmmm.....

My latest find is this wreath at Pier One Imports. In just under the five dollar mark at $4.98. ( Not bad for being $49.98 to begin with!)

Yes, it is sad that they are one hit wonders, so all of you bargain hunters out there - I say to you: na na na na boo boo!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-15T21:38:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day! This year was no exception! My Ward had a dinner on Saturday night - and it was fabulous. It gave me an excuse to totally dress up - which I LOVE! There was a string quartet and a great musical number too!

Sunday brought renewed strength ( I am finally getting over the flu - and it only took 3 weeks!!!!) So, I made chocolate covered strawberries for the women I visit teach and cupcakes for a friend. I turned the strawberries into a cute arrangement:

This year, I used a craft blog or inspiration and made this:

to add to my Valentine's decorations. I love the V- Day decorations!

A Commentary on Dating in Utah

2010-02-04T02:22:00.000-08:00

So, I am not a big fan - but I caught an episode of The Bachelor the other night. I have to admit - it made me laugh - because it reminded me of dating in Utah. 25 girls with not so high achievements - but all beautiful chasing after one amazing man with eternal commitments on the brain. Dating is elaborate, but utlimately, only one will get the ring.....
just my thought on the subject :)

blah, blah, blah

2010-02-03T23:35:00.000-08:00

So, if January is the month for the blah's - I sure have them. So - to followup on my previous post, here is how the running is going: nowhere. In fact, the week after I started running, I stopped - only because I got so sick that breathing became a chore. I have been sick now for almost 3 weeks. Blah!! It gets kind of hard to teach while sick, making life even harder.

I have been substituting. This week - Middle school. BLAH! I have never had a desire to go back. It was interesting to see how different middle school is. Like, hello! every kid has a cell phone! Not your hand me down variety either. They want to do their work while listening to their i pods. Really?

So, I babysit for an amazing woman. I have said this before. She is single, has a career, and has now adopted 4 children through utah foster care. Now, she is signing up to be a foster parent again. She amazes me!

ah, as always, more to come:)

Run, Peggy, Run!

2010-01-18T18:42:00.000-08:00

My new goal is to become a runner. What? Me, a runner? You are talking to a girl who was tormented as a child, for not being able to run very fast. I could barely run the mile in high school. I have always wanted to be able to run - so I am going to do it. Starting today. I will run 5 days a week - and I know I will get better. I started today with seeing how long I could run continuously. Woohoo - I went 1/4 of a mile. So, I alternated walking and running every 1/4 mile. It actually felt pretty good! Great! My challenge has begun. So, what can you do to support me? Come run with me!

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T04:44:00.000-08:00

2010
Twenty –Ten
This is gonna be Big. I mean it! A fabulous year!
Oh, I guess I could recap 2009- but only the positive stuff.
*I earned my teaching Certificate – Officially Licensed (in the State of Utah). Really! Me. Legal and all. So- I am a teacher. Snaps – It felt incredible!!!!!
*Girls Camp- I did it – I successfully planned and executed a girl’s camp and had a fabulous time! I was super crafty and everything.
* I met a fabulous family – I babysit for them! I love them so much!
*After my brief spout of homelessness, and the generosity of those who let me stay with them- I am now in a great home, and I love it.
* The year that I lost 60 lbs. and thus loose my pants in awkward situations.
So, 2009 was not what I had expected – but I learned a lot. Kind of glad it’s over though!

Twenty Ten
The year that I get my first teaching job.
The year that I totally become an awesome teacher.
The year that I loose 100 lbs and officially become Hot.
The year that I earn my Masters of Education. (I think I could finish this year – but it will most likely 2011.
The year that I meet the super hot guy – and totally turn into a world class kisser.
The year that I learn how to take care of and fix my car – and make my car a true driving machine.
The year that I become a true chef, with mad cooking skills.
The year that I get a passport and actually leave the country.
The year that I become a real photographer, assuming that I remember to keep the batteries charged.
The year that I write my first LDS Romance Novel.

It is going to be an Amazing year!

Peggy, you sure have come a long way...

2009-12-18T21:37:00.000-08:00

I really do not know how I passed the sixth grade. Really. I was a terrible student, akward, the family life was really bad. I was also terrible in math. I mean it. I had no idea what I was doing - and thus, I took it out on my math teacher. This finally came to a point where I literally told him to go to H-E Double hockey sticks. I know, I can hear the gasps as i write. Now, take that history and fast forward to this week. I was substituting for a sixth grade class, which required that I taught sixth grade math. Me. Miss I hate math for all eternity! So, goes to show - if you put your mind to something - miracles can happen. And, I am smart - which is something I did not know back then.:)

Job Status

2009-11-28T01:45:00.000-08:00

Let's see. I am totally jealous of all of my friends who have teaching jobs right now. As I search the job postings, the more desperate I become. I honestly would love to stay here in Utah... but as I look at the non existent job listings, I search further and further away. Or like I think about the last job I applied for, and I did not even get an interview..... gggrrr or one of the few openings, which is in Vernal, UT. Vernal? Really? Its like out there...
So, I am still searching...
Dallas: I applied for like three jobs, but I am a little nervous when I consider where in Dallas these jobs are... I do not know the inner city area.
Raleigh: I am only interested because I would be close to my childhood friend, Lucinda.
Pennsylvania is always on the radar, but there are not any openings.....
Mmm, I will keep trying. I think I need to focus on my approach - begging, pleading?

What odd jobs teach me...

2009-11-28T01:28:00.000-08:00

Here are my recent odd jobs:
cleaning houses: okay: what I learned was that you may have beacoup bucks to pay to have several people come out to clean your house, but after seeing it, I would use the money to decorate your house. Yuck! I just want to say please welcome your home to this decade! (i know, I sound like a total snob!)
laundry aide: not glamorous, but I love the home decor.... love it!
potato salesperson: Okay - this was a truly ODD job....
babysitting: I am amazed that someone can just hire someone off of craigslist to watch their kids. Amazed!
I am truly the Queen of odd jobs!

Sparks of happiness

2009-11-13T00:13:00.000-08:00

It is amazing how cool it is to create stuff! I work with an afterschool program, which includes an art class. I love creating new pieces of art as much as the children do! Really - you should try it! Get out those watercolors... it is liberating!
Plus, my ward had its super saturday for Relief Society. I was in heaven... I made this watch bracelet.... and for someone with no beading experience...... it is good.
Plus, I made these wood blocks.. oh,but I can't say anymore because it is a Christmas special... shhhhh. (I had a blast making it!):)))))

So, my life has these sparks of happiness making stuff. Especially right now in my life, where I feel like I am down in the dumps most of the time, I need as many sparks as I can get!
P

Halloween

2009-11-12T21:16:00.001-08:00

I love Halloween! Love it! Here's this years best costumes:
A girl dressed as a construction worker, with stud finder written on the Hat.
I loved the Ursula costume I saw at a party - mostly because I was a mermaid.
I went to A Witch's Night Out at Gardner Village - there were Amazing costumes!
I love seeing all the kiddos dressed up - and I admit - I am drawn to bling- so I loved the Dorothy costumes with a lot of sparkle. The only sad thing is that the school that I work at does not allow dressing up for Halloween. How sad!
Happy Halloween!!!

Eyes of a child

2009-10-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

Thoughts...
I thought today of how excited a kindergartner was today to be the teacher's helper. If only I could be that thrilled at something so little.

As I listen to a child cry because she did not get to help lay out the crescent rolls, and how her sister always gets to, I think of my own similar thoughts..... and petitions to my Heavenly Father.

Perspective is a powerful thing....

So, today I am totally thrilled by.....
the green light on the way to work
the kindergartners loving my shape monster.... i love when they laugh out loud!
the cupcakes in the break room
the hugs from kindergartners (I get them everyday!)
the art projects in the afterschool program
the advice from a third grade teacher
the free dinner from cafe rio
cafe rio
the stairs were shoveled at home
having a washer and dryer at home
the fact that Halloween is only two days away
the package of toilet paper my roommate bought
the huge supplement of vitamin C to keep me healthy

I love how appreciating the small things makes the blues go away......:)

I know there is a plan for me.... I just wish I knew what it was!

2009-09-26T23:04:00.000-07:00

So, I am an aide at an Elementary school for now. They originally had me in the sixth grade, then moved me to Kindergarten (yeah!!!) It is interesting.... I am an aide for a first year teacher who was in the same program as me last year. I kind of feel like the bridesmaid and not the bride.....
I am still looking for a teaching position - which is such a roller coaster ride.... the hope is there, the anticipation of being hired, the depression when you get the rejection letter. This week I interviewed at Sunrise Elementary in Canyons District, and Woodstock Elementary in Granite.
I am excited to finally feel settled in my new place, comfortable in my new ward, and friends with my new roommates. Life is good!

Life at the Airport

2009-08-28T15:51:00.000-07:00

I have a job! Yeah!!! It is at The Salt Lake City Airport. Life is interesting at the airport..... Now that I work there, I feel like I LIVE there.
I will recap some interesting scenes:
The Cat Lady: There was one lady who needed help with her 4 (Yes - 4) cats. All in cute little carriers, but cats none the less. I also thought cat women were more of the recluse type...
I love watching people - like the teenager today who gave her mother the best "whatever" look with teen attitude.
Oh, there are the missionaries! From farewells to homecomings. So sweet! The other night there were like 5 on the row of payphones, all sitting in wheelchairs, talking to their folks.
Oh, and I get to ride on the cart through the airport. It is sooo fast! (Yes- you'd better watch out!!!)
I love "riding" the jetway out to the plane, you know, when it moves to meet the door of the plane.

Speaking of jobs - I am now an aid at Roosevelt Elementary in - (you will never guess this! ) the 6th grade! Oh, they are such fun kids!

Ciao all!
Peggy

Job Search

2009-08-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

I do not want to say that I gave up on my teaching job search - but I have just added another pot to the burner. I need to find a job, any job, NOW. This has been an interesting search - as I am willing to do just about anything....
Here is my list of the most interesting jobs
Carriage Driver: you know the white carriages around temple square.... I would drive the carriage. Funny thing is that I have never been on a horse... but it said "no experience neccessary!"
Ice Cream Truck Driver: this would be fun - all the kids running toward you and all - but I would probably go crazy listening to the music all day!
Pizza Delivery: Who wouldn't want me on their doorstep with a pizza?
McDonalds: Yes, you can have it your way!
Party Supply Store: I am a great party planner!
Well, wish me luck - someone has to hire me!
P

Grandpa

2009-08-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

This week my Grandfather, Mileo DeJohn, passed away. Let me tell you about him.....
He was pretty cool guy.
He fought in World War II. He was a glorified hero in the states for capturing three japs single handedly. Actually, they were deserters from the Japanese Army, hiding for days, starving, and my Grandfather came across them....
He was a true Grandpa.... always on our side..... when I wanted a hot dog at a nice restaurant he said sure. When I wanted to go on a date when I was 12, he said "let the girl go have some fun".....
He believed in America. He was a councilman for Detroit for years. My favorite picture of him and his wife with The Clintons.
He never gave up..... my grandmother did not allow him to see his two daughters, or even let him know where they were. Even though he went on two have like 7 kids with his second wife, he never gave up on finding his daughters, even hired a private investigater.
This is more about Grandma - and here collection of donkeys (symbol for Democrats). She is in the Guiness book of world records for this.
I can't believe he is gone, but I am grateful for the time we had. Love you Grandpa!

YW Camp

2009-07-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

I seriously had so much fun at yw camp! I have to say, I was a bit nervous starting out - if I remembered to pack everything that we needed and stuff - but it all turned out great!

We camped in Ogden Canyon, at Camp Atoka. Our theme was BUGS - Blossoming Uniquely and Growing Spiritually. I was amazed at the creativity from each ward - from ladybug visors to dragonfly earrings - every bug was refelected beautifully!

I have to admit - our ward was saved by the genorousity of our Priesthood Leader - who is the handiest man to have around. Seriously- we would have been camping on tarps and calling out for pizza if he had not been there. Plus - he was so happy just to spend some time with his daughter.

I loved the skits the girls did - our ward did one on the full armor of God. I will not forget however, the skit with lightning bugs- whenever you perform an act of service your but lights up - lets all light our butts!

Finally, we were able to float down the river and just relax in intertubes! It was so nice to cool off!!!!

I really do have the best calling - and I was able to build friendships with the YW and the other leaders.

A trip down memory lane....

2009-07-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

So, let's go back in time... to just about twelve years ago. I had just traveled across the country - to the great land of Rexburg, Idaho. I just moved into my new apartment with like zero belongings, and I was a little nervous... That is when I met Sherri. We became friends & roommates instantly!
So, yesterday, it was fun to see her - since I have not seen her in twelve years. She helped me make the bandanas for girls camp. Then she shared all (well some) of her crafting secrets - cause she is the craftiest of them all! Really! She showed me how to make tutu's ( cause every girl needs a tutu - ) ! Then, she showed me how to make hair bows and clips. It was really fun to see her - and her three little girls! Thanks Sherri!!!

Wonder Woman Award

2009-07-05T21:27:00.000-07:00

I see wonderful women in the world pretty often. Sometimes, there are those that really deserve an award for being so amazing. I started babysitting for a Wonder Woman achiever about a month ago. She is my age, 30, and like me, she is single. She wanted to make a difference in the world, and she loves kids. She started taking foster children into her home. Not just one - she started with 2 sisters, then 2 brothers. Then she adopted all four. I am amazed and awed by her caring and her bravery! What a wonder woman!!!

I need an intervention....

2009-06-29T00:29:00.000-07:00

So, I am 31 years old and single. This is not because I have not tried to find a husband. Not by a long shot. So, I have decided that I need some help. So, I need a dating therapist.... which is where all of my readers come in.

I know that I have faults, but don't we all? I have felt for a long time that my lack of dating has all been because of my size. Guys don't dig fat chicks, I know this. I do believe that there has to be some guys that are above this. That could see me for who I am and not just what I look like. Yet, this hope has dwindled over the years of rejection.....

So, this is where I need your advice... How do I find a husband? I have asked plenty of guys out, no lets rephrase this, I have akwardly (cause thats my style) thrown myself at some guys..... I have played hard to get ( and mostly just gotten ignored).

I would really like the advice of my guy readers, if there are any. What do I do? How can I just get a date, because honestly, I do not date. Please... help the dateless!

***Just a quick note....

2009-06-22T00:22:00.000-07:00

Umm, I tend to steal pictures - especially from family - so if you post a pic - you have been warned! :)

Happy Daddy's Day!!

2009-06-22T00:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day! This is my Dad - Norm Drasher. I kindof like him. He has taught me a lot, and has always been there for me - even when I show emotion- which he rarely does. He is kind of a great guy for the most part. He is currently serving a service mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, so if you ever have a geneology question - you might just be lucky enough to talk to him. Here are some of my favorite memories.....

He has always wanted his children to graduate from early morning seminary. He put in the effort too - like waking me up and driving me there - which was never an easy task. I fondly remember one of the mornings that I did not want to get up - and the cold milk that he poured on my head!!!! I got up. oh, and I graduated too.....

Dad trying to explain the birds and the bees.... he showed me a church video about chastity, but I was like 12 years old and no idea what chastity meant! Nor, did I understand anything else about the topic.....

I love how he took care of his mother, Nannie Drasher. He would often spend vacation days re-roofing her house or working on her property.

Dad dress shopping - nuff said- finally he pawned this job off to my older sister - THANK GOODNESS!!!!

Love you Dad! Happy Fathers Day!

This life is for the test....

2009-06-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

So, I really had high hopes after I finished my student teaching in like mid April. Really! I thought I would just get a teaching position lined up, and work my little fanny off during the summer.
Well, when a summer job did not come, after a ton of applications, I was fine. It gave me a chance to finish all of the projects for my Master's Degree. I would be fine.

Well, May came... I had more time on my hands... so I worked on some projects, tried to pick up some extra hours at my regular job at the treatment center, and focused on preparing a classroom.

Mid May - I was not really working enough to make ends meet - it came time to seek for solutions. So, I decided to move out of the place I have been living. I would just stay with friends for a while, and put all of my belongings in storage. I would just keep trying, right?

Well, bad got worse... I took on too many hours at once at work, and one day, after working 15 hours, I dozed off at work. So, I lost my job. Kind of defeated the purpose, eh?

I will keep trying - so I had time to move out. I interviewed a few times with Granite School District. I also had several other job interviews. The only problem is - I just earned a degree - so immediatly I am asked what I want to do with an Early Childhood Degree? Well, I want to teach.... if I can get a job. Response: I can almost see it on their faces - i.e. you will not stay for very long, next.....

So, yes, my life is like the definition of frustration right now. I have my moments - like when I started crying at the gas station today. I am trying to kill frustration with exercise and chocolate - good combination, huh?

I just feel like everything happens for a purpose. Life will get better - and this is a learning experience that I absolutely need. Until then - well, I get by with a little help from my friends.... Ben has been nice enough to let me stay at his house, Suzie has offered meals and a shoulder to cry on, Mel has been trying to find me a man ( because being unemployed, homeless and overweight is SOOOOOooooo attractive!), and countless friends who I know are there for me.

Life will get better.....

My teaching website

2009-06-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

I really wanted to have a blog for my classroom - my future classroom, but I could not wait! So, here it is! Right now it kind of brags about my credentials. I want to post my portfolio. So, does anyone know how to post a powerpoint on a blog?

Miss Scrappin Susie

2009-06-07T00:38:00.000-07:00

Scrappin Susie is my cute little sister - and dang it! She is so creative - even more creative than me! So, she has a new etsy shop - for pre made scrap books. So, if you have ever wished that you were crafty - here is a good way to fake it! So cute!!!
Here

Girls Camp Ideas

2009-05-24T01:44:00.000-07:00

My calling in the church is Ward Camp Director. I went to girls camp as a young woman, but I feel really unsure of myself as a leader. So, if you have any tips for me - I would love them! Plus, our stake theme is B.U.G.S. - which I think is awesome! The only thing is that our ward has been assigned the bug: the beetle. Who has ever seen a cute beetle? How can I make this fun for our Young Women?

Cultivate.....

2009-05-17T03:04:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of talents and interests. I have been exploring all of them during the last few weeks.....
Here is some of photography:

So, I decided that I need to work on developing more of my talents. For those of you who have some these talents, I would love your advice and suggestions!!!
Photography
Drawing
Playing Piano
Scrapbooking
Flower arranging
cake Decorating
Sewing
painting
woodworking

Any other ideas???

Wake Up Call

2009-05-17T02:57:00.000-07:00

I have been sleeping in lately. Ever since student teaching has ended, I no longer have to get up at 6, I sleep in until 8. I wake up with a unique wakeup call - from the 2 year old in the house. ( I am renting from a friend who has 2 kids.) It is like clock work every day - 7:45 I hear the pitter patter of his (Gabriel's) little feet - the squeal of excitement when he can open my door and his daily question - "what doing?" I secretly love it - it is soooo cute ! Who could ask for a cuter wake up call???

blog, blog, blog

2009-05-15T23:15:00.000-07:00

Okay - I admit it! I love to blog! It is like my own little editorial on life! Plus, I can show off. I can learn from others - like the blog I saw this week on coupons. I can keep up with my friends! Did i mention that I love blogging???

Lessons Learned

2009-05-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was interesting this year. My mom called me - and we talked for four hours. It was kind of amazing. I learned a lot. We talked a lot about my parent's marriage actually. I guess being Daddy's girl for so long that I have only seen his point of view. It was really gut wrenching to hear her side. I feel quite guilty for how I have viewed her for so long.
I actually feel bitter - as a child of divorce - I feel that their issues were really the small stuff - that they could never resolve..... and then paid the price for there stubborness in the divorce.
It also reminds me of how poor my communication skills are - and its no wonder having seen the way my parents treated each other for so long.....
GGGRRRRR...waaaahhhhhh!
I guess all I can do is learn from their mistakes.
I am grateful for both my parents - they both have their good sides.....

I could however, write a book on funny fights - its like the book The Twits- always pushing each others buttons....

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T03:08:00.000-07:00

As a way to celebrate Mother's Day, I wanted to say thank you to my mom for....
bringing me into the World
Keeping me safe, clean, and healthy
teaching me the gospel
Telling me stories from her childhood
Sewing countless dresses for me
Throwing countless birthday parties for me
Driving me here and there
Piano Lessons
swimming lessons
letting me be a kid
picnics in the summer
reading to me
cleaning up after me
staying up with me
family vacations
encouragement
love
support
and so much more!
Happy Mother's Day

Family Home Evening

2009-05-10T01:37:00.000-07:00

Family Home Evening is important in the LDS church. It is time set aside every Monday Night for the family. There is usually a lesson and an activity. So, as a single person, I never really considered having Family Home Evening alone. Singles wards have group family home evenings (mostly an attempt for families to be created). So, I came across some ideas for singles FHE that is more of a time to become stronger spiritually. Here they are:
Make "FHE Coupons" to give to family members and friends for 1 free FHE lesson, and enjoy treating them to a FHE lesson taught by you.
Make a quilt or other humanitarian project.
Write a positive note to a Congressman, Senator, military serviceperson, mayor, bishop, or parent.
Write in your journal.
Write your life history -- these are important even if you don't have children! Here is a history about a great-great-great Uncle Hugh Uriah French who had no children of his own. Uncle Hugh Uriah's life story is wonderfully interesting, and I love to read it!
Write a note to a missionary. Pray for guidance and inspiration about what to share -- be it humorous, spiritual, or a report on what's happening in your unit.
Offer to redo, clean up, and fix the dolls and toys from your local thrift shop.
Stuff envelopes for a charity organization or a nonprofit group.
Study the most recent Conference Addresses from the Ensign.
Study and apply principles from the new Preach My Gospel book.
Volunteer to help clean pens and walk the pets at the local animal shelter.
Go to a hospital and read stories to the elderly or to children.
Research and write a history about a relative.
Research a favorite gospel topic at library.lds.org
Invite a member of your church unit to teach you about entering genealogy into the computer.
Prepare names for the temple -- attend the temple and do the work for your ancestors.

I really believe that Family Home Evening is important; single, married, with kids or without. So, now I have some new ideas!!!!

2009-05-10T01:27:00.000-07:00

For the past year, I have been really busy. I have worked and worked and gone to school and then worked some more. Well, I finished my student teaching. I am still working, but only about 20 hours a week – all on the weekend. So basically – I feel like I have downshifted….. Life is funny – because now I am trying to fill my free time. So far I have…….
1. Been able to spend time with friends. I had a wonderful impromptu sleepover with a good friend – how great is that?
2. Job hunting - okay you can really get a picture of the economy by the job market. I am trying to find a teaching position, and a summer job. For the summer- I have applied everywhere – for any type of job – dozens – and no luck. For teaching – I have applied nationwide.
3. Napped…. Well, I was sick, but I slept A LOT!!!!!! Who doesn’t love the indulgence of a good nap?
4. Playtime – I live with an 8 month old and a 2 year old. It sure is fun to have baby time and run around toddler time! We even went to Wheeler Farm – it was great!
5. Girls camp stuff – yeah, I am planning girls camp – cross your fingers….
6. Cleaned house – I have gone through my closets and dejunked everything! Oh, so I am having a Yard sale to complete the process….
7. Catching up on my favorite tv shows: Friday Night Lights, Medium and Gray’s Anatomy. I love that I can watch them online!

This next week, I can start substitute teaching. Hopefully, I will get some more work.....

Miracles do happen.....

2009-04-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 28, 2009
Miracles do happen....

This is a draft of a post that I originally wrote like two months ago.......

Last Sunday, at church, a young missionary stood up to talk. He was about 20 years old and from Maryland. This always makes me think of my oldest nephew. When he was born, my sister was not ready to be a mother, and placed him for adoption. That was almost 22 years ago. So lately, I have been hoping that he would seek out his birth mother. I have hoped to one day see him. Yet, this is not an easy subject for me to bring up for my sister. I would think that both of them would be curious... I know that my sister has struggled with the loss of placing him for adoption, so I really do not want to open old wounds and bring up the idea of finding him.... but I keep praying for him and for my sister.

Prayers do come true, because this week, my sister and my nephew, Noah were able to contact each other and "reunite." I hope that in writing this both will know Heavenly Father's love for both of them..... oh, I am on cloud nine......
Peggy

Posted by Peggy at 3:43 AM

Easter Traditions

2009-04-12T22:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! I am kind of walking down an Easter Memory Lane today. These are my favorite Easter memories...
I loved that we had new Easter dresses - my mom always made us beautiful dresses.
I loved that we would always eat off of the china on Easter sunday.
The Easter Bunny always came- no matter how old we were. I remember in like fourth grade, one of my friends no longer had the Easter Bunny come. I tried to pack up part of my basket for her - but mom told me that her parents would probably not appreciate that.
We always had an easter egg hunt in the front yard.
One year, my nanny (grandmother) came and we danced for hours in the kitchen.
My first year of college, me and some friends decided to make Easter dinner. It included 6 girls and like 12 boys. We liked the numbers!!!
Last year, I worked a graveyard shift for Easter at a treatment center for teenage girls. I hid 100's of eggs that night for an easter egg hunt in the morning. It was so fun!
I hope that you have all had a fabulous Easter. I hope that we have all remembered the real meaning of Easter!

Meet Miss Scrapblogger

2009-04-11T23:34:00.000-07:00

I want to share my sister's blog with y'all! Susan is addicted to scrapbooking! She is so creative! Now, she has her own blog to show off her scrapiness. Check it out!!!

Dreams......

2009-04-04T00:48:00.000-07:00

I really wonder why we dream sometimes! I am an active dreamer! Every once in a while, though, I think I have truly poignant dreams that truly make me think! It was set like a movie - with Jennifer Garner and Matthew McConaughey. They were getting married, and it was an absolutely perfect wedding. I was there and noticed how perfect everything was. Yet, behind the scenes, were look alikes, meant to hide any imperfections. I wanted to talk to the bride, yet she would not ever let me get too close. It turned out that she was not real, that she was hiding to avoid being seen as herself. How much are our lives spent hiding our imperfections and our "realness?"

Deep, huh?

What not to do while being observed....

2009-04-04T00:43:00.000-07:00

During student teaching you usually have to be observed about once every two weeks. This is what happened to a fellow student teacher that just made me laugh - and be grateful it was not me.... So, she was teaching on the five senses. To show them what salty is, she gave them each a teaspoon of soy sauce. No big deal, right? Wrong!!! She had four kids throwing up at once! I would loose my lunch at that point! Sorry Kelly!

Miracles do happen....

2009-03-28T03:43:00.001-07:00

This is a draft of a post that I originally wrote like two months ago.......

Last Sunday, at church, a young missionary stood up to talk. He was about 20 years old and from Maryland. This always makes me think of my oldest nephew. When hen was born, my sister was not ready to be a mother, and placed him for adoption. That was almost 22 years ago. So lately, I have been hoping that he would seek out his birth mother. I have hoped to one day see him. Yet, this is not an easy subject for me to bring up for my sister. I would think that both of them would be curious... I know that my sister has struggled with the loss of placing him for adoption, so I really do not want to open old wounds and bring up the idea of finding him.... but I keep praying for him and for my sister.

Prayers do come true, because this week, my sister and Noah were able to contact each other and "reunite." I hope that in writing this both will know Heavenly Father's love for both of them..... oh, I am on cloud nine......
Peggy

FACEinHOLE

2009-03-28T03:07:00.001-07:00

Create your own FACEinHOLE

Highlights of student teaching

2009-03-28T01:38:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that am almost done with my student teaching! I have loved it sooo much! I have two more weeks left in my second grade classroom. Hightlights have been - my friendship unit in the kindergarten. How darling! Part of it was learning to like yourself - so I had them paint self portraits. The cummalative activity was to have all of their pictures in our classroom friend "ship". So cute!

The best part of kindergarten was the surprise party that the students planned - they jumped out and everything! I was also spoiled with little teacher gifts - pencils, stickers, erasers, and most important - pain reliever! I loved their sweet cards!

This week in second grade we studied plants. We planted seeds in little cups. Then we also made a paper sunflower. We compared the life cycle of a plant to that of a story: having a beginning, middle and end. They did such a good job!

All of this teaching makes me so anxious for my own classroom! I can't wait!!!
Miss Drasher

Me & My Story

2009-03-22T02:52:00.000-07:00

I sit tonight, pricking myself. No, I am not into self harm - I am just checking my blood sugar. I am remarkably low tonight. So, I eat just enough sugar to raise it. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at the age of 26. Then - it was like my world crashed - really. I felt like I would my life had literally ended. Maybe that was a bit dramatic - but really - I mean, I was never going to be normal again.

It really all started my first year of college. I skipped my period for an entire year. Really - not pregnant or anything - it just stopped. I was kind of afraid to tell my doctor - i mean everyone knows why a girl misses her period! Turns out my doctor told me I have polycystic ovarian syndrome (pcos), and not to worry about it until I want to have children. Okay - I can handle that....

For years though, I asked - my doctor, nurse practitioner, etc, if there is anything more I should be concerned about with pcos. Always - the answer was that I may have a hard time getting pregnant. Until one weekend - I went kayaking and my legs went numb - and stayed that way for the rest of the day. Warning bells went off - and I went to the doctor on Monday. A simple blood test told me that I was diabetic. This was a surprise to me - I had no history of diabetes in my family - and I was in my twenties. Now, I know, I have been overweight my entire life - but I was also active. Even now the stereotype of type 2 diabetics come to mind - lazy couch potatos with little knowledge of basic healthcare. I exercised nearly everyday.

It turns out that pcos is a common precursor to diabetes. My sister was diagnosed with PCOS around the same time as my diagnosis of diabetes. Her doctor put her on diabetic medication ( the same one I was prescribed) immediatly. Immediatly? I waited 10 years!

So, yes I am frustated that I was not on medication for those years. Frustrated that I have to check my blood sugars and that I will never be normal again......

Am I crazy ....?

2009-03-07T22:41:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Free! Pass it on!

Ok, this has been going around to most of you already, but I got this from Christy, and now I am passing it on to you. Hopefully I have 5 people who follow my blog. Hah!

The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice for you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!

2. What I create will be just for you.

3. It’ll be done this year. {translation: you may be waiting a little while}

4. You have no clue what it’s going to be … it may be cards, a poem, a bookmark, something yummy or a complete surprise to you (and me!) … who knows? Not you, that’s for sure!

5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

6. Most importantly, you must offer the same deal on your blog - the first 5 people to comment on your blog (or if you do not have a blog, Facebook, etc.) get something made by YOU!

So have fun with it and enjoy giving of yourself and your talents!

Totally random

2009-03-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of the kids I live with. I have been having so much fun with them! Its great to play! The two year old kind of finds himself in trouble a lot... so, I provide the comic relief for mommy. The baby, well, I have not been able to take a good photo of her yet - she just moves too much!

So, I have to laugh! I love listening to five year olds talk. Mostly its about their love of legos or of their love of pokemon.... but lately their have been these love triangles in the kindergarten. Their conversation went like this.... boy 1 " I am going to send _____ flowers." Boy 2 "oh, I am going to send ____ flowers too!" Boy 1"You are going to send her dead flowers, I am going to send her flowers she will like!" Where do they come up with this, and where can I record this for posterity?

I have a new calling - ward camp director for the young women. I am so excited, and apprehensive at the same time. Like, am I a good example for them? Is girls camp the same in Utah as it is in Pennsylvania? I guess we will see!

Peggy Needs

2009-02-28T00:19:00.001-08:00

Instructions: Google the phrase (including the quotes) "[your first name] needs" and write down the first 10 results... no editing!! :)

This made me laugh.....
1. Peggy needs some good luv'n and get some new people to hang around with. (I do not know if this is a need.... )
2.Peggy needs help selecting some fish. Can you help her? (Disagree - Peggy can select her own fish!)
3.Peggy needs an evil twin. ( would I still be accountable for evil peggy? Mmmm...?)
4. Maybe Peggy Needs A Little Help From “Laura Bush”*. (Why would I need her help?)
5. Peggy needs to develop a task force to review the assessment to extractspecific information and develop specific recommendation.
(huh?)
6. Peggy needs a home for the holidays...
7. Peggy needs your pearls...
8. I think Peggy needs to talk to the people at "Picture Loans".
9. Peggy needs as many "walkers" as she can get.
10. Peggy needs more than a makeover, she needs an overhaul!

What do you think Peggy needs?

Just a little plug.....

2009-02-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

So, I can not resist putting in a plug for the cutest little girl bows ever! My friend, Sherrie, has her own little business called shindyz. They are handmade bows for little girls. They are unique and fun! Plus -(this is the best part) they are affordable! Anywhere from $1.00 to $9.00. So, here is her site - www.shindyz.com or email her at shindyzaccessories@gmail.com.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-01-31T02:40:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day! It is so sweet! This year is positively the best, best, BEST! I am student teaching in a year round school. My program requires me to spend half of my time (like 6 weeks a semester) in kindergarten, the other in 2nd grade. So, with year round school, I was in 2nd grade until the 27th of January. They do not come back on track until Feb. 23rd, missing Valentine's Day. So, we had Valentine's Day in 2nd grade on January 27th. (That is my first valentine's day). Being in kindergarten, I teach morning and an afternoon session.So, I get Valentine's Day X 3!!! It is so sweet! I love little Valentine's! How lucky am I???

Moments like these

2009-01-29T20:53:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have discovered that teaching is a proffession that requires some amount of insanity. I mean, first of all - I want to teach. This requires large amounts of patience, a good education, with low amounts of financial returns. It is in the preparing that I see my true insanity. I find myself on a snowy night at Sugarhouse park, walking along the creek finding rocks. Yes - rocks, of course, for my unit on rocks. I notice that I really must seem kind of scary - I mean who hangs out at night, along a creek? I guess the only people I would run into are those trying to hide a crime - or a body - neither of which are happy thoughts.... I just find that my lesson plans call for odd things - like my dead fish last week......

Oh well, my plans are on friendship - so I think I am safe for a while.....
Miss Drasher

Tag - You are it!

2009-01-25T05:26:00.001-08:00

So, robyn tagged me! Here are 25 little known facts about the pegster....
1. I was prescribed glasses when I was three. They were terrible! They were too big for my face! I hated them!!!
2. I was on drill team/colorguard in High school and I loved it. There is something so wicked awesome about tossing a rifle and catching it - with music!
3. I have lost count of the number of roommates I have had - way over 100!
4. Some of the former are still some of my best friends!!!
5. I grew up in Lewisberry, PA. and now live in Salt Lake City.
6. I talk in my sleep - A LOT!!!
7. I am a giver.
8. I have never broken a bone - I really wanted to and tried to over and over again in elementary school.
9. I secretly love LDS romance novels! (SHHHhhh this is my darkest secret!!!)
10. I want to be a kindergarten teacher when I grow up.
11. I have had the most random jobs ever..... and A LOT of them!!!!!
12. I love the show Alias with Jennifer Garner.
13. Kids bring me so much joy!!!
14. I love country music!
15. I love to camp!
16. I went to Ricks College when it still was Ricks.
17. I love the movie Hairspray!

I guess I will need to work some more on having random facts!!!!

Is this the part where I become a grown up???? NOOOooooo, I'm not ready!!!

2009-01-24T04:37:00.000-08:00

I am completing my student teaching right now. I love it, and everyday prepares me to be a great teacher! I love the school I am at, the teachers and the kids! I have my first interview with Salt Lake School District in 2 weeks!!! Awwwwwwwww! I just feel like I am jumping in to an ocean with a pair of floaties on my arms!

I am also quite giddy with the expectance of a job offer and my own classroom next year!

Wish me luck!!!
P

Life Changes

2009-01-18T03:25:00.000-08:00

I moved recently. I am renting from a former roommate of mine. Only thing is that now she is married and has two babies. Two babies - one is three months, the other 16 months. Plus, she has two step children. She rents another bedroom to a woman who does not speak english, with 16 month old. So - it is a different situation. I love it though. I am trying to pick up spanish. I am loving the kids - they are so much fun! Last weekend I learned how to make tamales. Life has given me a new adventure!!!

The world through the eyes of Seinfeld

2009-01-18T03:11:00.000-08:00

Do you ever hear yourself saying, this reminds me of that episode of Seinfeld??? If you are like me, I say it on like a daily basis. Like tonight, it is freeeezing at work. Freeeezzzzzzinng! I find myself as George - shouting to his boss - "do you think you can freeze me out???" "You can't get rid of me that easily!!!!" I think it is hilarious! Have you Seinfelded today? Or is it "NO SOUP FOR YOU!!!"

Unwed Peg

2009-01-09T05:30:00.000-08:00

I have been getting everyone's christmas newsletters and decided that I need one myself. What can I say? I was jealous of being able to brag about 2008. No, there were not any newborns, and no, no one was potty trained either....
I turned 30!!! Yeahhh! I have developed into a mature (or somewhat mature) woman! Does this mean my foolish antics have to end - no way! It is my nature to have very blonde moments! It is new opportunities for adventures!

In March, I visited Texas for the first time, to see the Lewis Family. I had so much fun. I also had intensive style sessions with Chiara - I am not sure how much they really improved my style - but I looked good while I was there!

I was also accepted into my student teaching program in March - which brought a smile to my face!

May brought my biggest accomplishment - Graduation from the University of Utah with my B.S.!!!! It FINALLY CAME TRUE!!!! For this, my mom flew in from Pennsylvania, and we were able to spend a week together touring Utah. I also received two scholarships for student teaching.

In July, I started Kindergarten! Really, student teaching kindergarten. I love it soooooooo much! I am at Daybreak Elementary in South Jordan with Mrs. Karren. I am now a Mrs. Karren wannabe!!!! Now, I just need a magic wand!!!

I started 2nd grade in August. What a switch! They can do things by themselves! They really are a great group of kids as well!

In October, I lost my favorite roommate, Melinda, who moved to Tennessee. I miss her sooooo!!! We shared a room for so long that I think that I still talk to her in my sleep at night!!!

December blessed with an acceptance letter to the Master's Program at the U. I was so grateful, because I had already taken the classes this semester for the program. Now, I just need to find classes for the spring! Wish me luck!!!!

2009!!!

2009-01-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

Now that it is a new year, I have set some new goals for 2009!
1. I want to take more pictures. I seem to have a gift for bringing my camera with me, and then realizing that the batteries are dead, the memory card is full, or just never taking the camera out of the bag. Not this year!!!
2. Spend more time on things I like to do - scrapbooking,camping, etc...
3. To increase my spirituality. I would like to be more Christlike and to learn more from the Scriptures. I do want to also commit to attending the temple once a week.. or close to it. There is a new temple being built next to my site school.... To work on family history.
5. I would like to say that I want to date more, but lets face it - I don't date. I am not about to revert to my past ways of asking guys out - so I will just go against what prophets have said and "hang out" more. Its a step.....
6. My health goals....
7. Appreciate myself more - give myself credit for who I have become!
So there you go - and I forgive myself ahead of time for messing up!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Retirement

2008-12-30T03:23:00.000-08:00

I have reached a landmark in my life story.... retirement... from singles wards. I have been in many singles wards in the past twelve years... yes - twelve years! They have all been superb - especially in regards to the people that I have met. Yet, it is still funny to me that singles wards exist. I just feel that singles should be part of every ward - just like the moms and the dads and the little old grandmas.....
I have loved all of the singles wards that I have been in, and all of the friends that I have made. I am excited to experience a family ward again! Happy Retirement!!!

Who's your daddy?

2008-12-21T22:15:00.000-08:00

Did you ever see the movie 13 going on 30? It is one of my favorites. One part that cracks me up is when Jennifer Garner was asked "who's your daddy?" She missed the slang meaning and simply responded "Wayne Rink." Here is my daddy - Norm Drasher.
So, he just had an article written about him in the newspaper back home. Cool, huh? He never told me about an interview that he had on CNN, so I was excited that he actually told me about this one!!!
My Dad is not perfect, but I think that I have had to defend him within my family for so many years- that sometimes I forget that he is not perfect. I stayed with him when my parents divorced - partly because I could not handle him being left alone, but it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
I do think that divorce is interesting in terms of parenting. Every child needs a mother and a father - there are so many traits that they gain from each parent. Yet, the world would say that we can each do it all on our own. Men and women are so different - but we need each others differences. Okay- so that was a huge can of worms that I just opened - just something to think about!
Here is the article - I hope this link works.
P
http://www.standardspeaker.com/articles/2008/12/22/news/hz_standspeak.20081222.a.pg1.hz22_normdrasher_s1.2176473_top2.txt

The Regulator

2008-12-17T04:16:00.000-08:00

No, this is not some fiber aid, this is one more of my nicknames. Let me explain. A former roommate gave me this name. At the time, she was dating a young man. Well, I would worry about their late night activities at our home, so I would just happen to make cookies and surprise them. I know this sounds kind of dumb, they are adults. I just know that I am very tempted when I am with a guy.... and need protection some times. I wanted to be their protector... does that make sense? Well, umm, I do not think they enjoyed my antics, and thus was named the Regulator.

Who would have believed that I would actually feel like the regulator again? I work in a treatment center for teenage girls. This week especially, I have had to enforce some of the established rules - and felt so much like the bad guy! Once again, Peggy the Regulator returns!

P

Another Tag

2008-12-13T04:20:00.000-08:00

7 TV Shows I Love To Watch:

1. i Carly
2. American Home Makeover
3. Friends
4. The Office
5. I have really liked Private Practice lately...
6. I Love Lucy - an oldy but a goody!
7. Cold Case

7 Things That Happened Yesterday:

1. I was able to sleep in with my fuzzy blanket..... ahhh, heaven -
2. Conferenced with a professor who absolutely intimidates me.
3. Visited my friend, Diana.
4. Lifted some serious weights - and paid for it with soreness.....
5. Talked with my friend Lucinda
6.
7.

7 Favorite Places To Eat:

1. Cafe Rio
2. European Connection
3. The Pie
4. Bombay House
5. Happy Sumo
6. Gastronomy
7. Cold Stone

7 Things I'm Looking Forward To:

1. Teaching
2. Summer - I am always looking forward to summer!
3. Finding luvv, twue luv - and spending time with him...
4. Marriage in the Temple.
5. A trip to Pennsylvania.
6. moving to a new place
7.

7 Things On My Wish List:

1. To get completely out of debt.
2. To have my own place.
3. A teaching position.
4. To lose half of my body weight.
5. Geneology - to have my family's work done.
6. Free time
7. to be a mom

Christmas Carols for those with "issues"

2008-12-12T05:16:00.000-08:00

1. Schizophrenia - Do You Hear What I Hear?
2. Multiple Personality Disorder - We Three Kinds Disoriented Are
3. Amnesia - I don't remember if I'll be Home for Christmas
4. Narcissistic - Hark the Herald Angels Sing About Me
5. Manic - Deck the Halls and Walls and House and Lawn and Streets and Stores and Office and Town and Cars and Buses and Trucks and Trees and...
6. Paranoid- Santa Claus is Coming to Get Me
7. Antisocial Personality Disorder - Thoughts of Roasting You on an Open Fire
8. Borderline Personality Disorder - You Better Watch Out, I'm Gonna Cry, I'm Gonna Pout, Maybe I'll tell you Why
9.Attention Deficit Disorder- Silent Night, Holy Ooohhh look at the puppy - can I have a chocolate, why is France so far away, is it snowing?
10. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder - Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,
Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells,Jingle Bells.

11.Alzheimer's Disease/Senile Dementia- Walking in a Winter Wonderland Miles from My House in My Slippers and Robe.

12. Social Anxiety Disorder - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas While I sit Here and Hyperventilate.

13. Oppositional Defiant Disorder - I saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus so I burned down the house.

Since I work in the field of Mental Health and I totally have my own issues - this totally made me laugh!

Body Worlds 3: The Story of the Heart

2008-12-09T05:45:00.000-08:00

My part time job is working at The Leonardo Downtown, where they have Body Worlds 3. I have been so amazed by really studying and looking at the human body. We have such a gift! Creation is sooo amazing to me. It amazes me that everyday, a baby is born, and born the right shape, with all of its parts. Or why we have some parts of our bodies. Eyebrows - they are so random. You can see them on the plastinates - not like hair - but padding. So Amazing!!!

2008-12-09T04:06:00.001-08:00

1. started your own blog (duh)
2. slept under the stars
3. played in a band
4. visited hawaii
5. watched a meteor shower
6. given more than you can afford to charity
7. been to disneyland
8. climbed a mountain
9. held a praying mantis
10. sang a solo
11. bungee jumped
12. visited paris
13. watched a lightning storm at sea
14. taught yourself an art from scratch
15. adopted a child
16. had food poisoning
17. walked to the top of the statue of liberty
18. grown your own vegetables
19. seen the mona lisa in france
20. slept on an overnight train
21. had a pillow fight
22. hitch-hiked
23. taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. built a snow fort
25. held a lamb
26. gone skinny dipping
27. run a marathon
28. ridden in a gondola in venice
29. seen a total eclipse
30. watched a sunrise or a sunset31. hit a home run (in the park)
32. been on a cruise
33. seen niagra falls in person
34. visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. seen an amish community
36. taught yourself a new language
37. had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. seen the leaning tower of pisa in person
39. gone rock climbing
40. seen michaelangelo's david
41. sung karaoke
42. seen the old faithful geyser erupt
43. bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. visited africa
45. walked on a beach by moonlight
46. been transported in an ambulance
47. had your portrait painted
48. gone deep sea fishing
49. seen the sistine chapel in person
50. been to the top of the eiffel tower in paris
51. gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. kissed in the rain
53. played in the mud
54. gone to a drive-in theater
55. been in a movie
56. visited the great wall of china
57. started a business
58. taken a martial arts class
59. visited russia
60. served at a soup kitchen
61. sold girl scout cookies
62. gone whale watching
63. got flowers for no reason
64. donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. gone sky diving
66. visited a nazi concentration camp
67. bounced a check
68. flown in a helicopter
69. saved a favorite childhood toy
70. visited the lincoln memorial
71. eaten caviar
72. pieced a quilt
73. stood in times square
74. toured the everglades
75. been fired from a job
76. seen the changing of the guards in london
77. broken a bone
78. been on a speeding motorcycle
79. seen the grand canyon in person
80. published a book
81. visited the vatican
82. bought a brand new car
83. walked in jerusalem
84. had your picture in the newspaper
85. read the entire bible
86. visited the white house
87. killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. had chickenpox
89. saved someone's life
90. sat on a jury
91. met someone famous
92. joined a book club
93. lost a loved one
94. had a baby
95. seen the alamo in person
96. swam in the great salt lake
97. been involved in a law suit
98. owned a cell phone
99. been stung by a bee
100. seen mount rushmore in person
101. learned to play an instrument

Come What May, and Love It

2008-12-04T02:29:00.000-08:00

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, the oldest living apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died Monday night, age 91.
In reflecting upon his death, I returned to his last conference address. I LOVE IT! It speaks to my heart about the trials we face in this life. So, here are the main points - and I hope I do not get sued for plagarism.......

"Come What May, and Love It"
What a statement to guide your life. I think of myself at 18, with such hopes and plans about how life would be - and compare it to now and what life is. Two totally different routes really! I have been truly blessed - but in ways that I could never have imagined then.
"Learn to Laugh

1."The first thing we can do is learn to laugh. Have you ever seen an angry driver who, when someone else makes a mistake, reacts as though that person has insulted his honor, his family, his dog, and his ancestors all the way back to Adam? Or have you had an encounter with an overhanging cupboard door left open at the wrong place and the wrong time which has been cursed, condemned, and avenged by a sore-headed victim?
There is an antidote for times such as these: learn to laugh."
2."Seek the Eternal"
3. "The third thing we can do is understand the principle of compensation. The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude."
4."The fourth thing we can do is put our trust in our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ."

All I want for Christmas.....

2008-12-04T01:49:00.000-08:00

As a child do you remember making the famous list to Santa Claus? I sure do. It is such an exciting time for a child - the anticipation and all. This year, I get the same questions, what do you want for Christmas? I never know - I guess because if I have a need, I get it myself... but here is my Christmas wish list......

kids books - i love em - they are just so pure -
a tune up for my car - umm, its been sounding kinda funny lately...
mmmm, a husband... okay, this might be one of those "big ticket" items... so I would settle for just a date with a nice, chivalrous man
-It may take a lifetime to find true love, but when you do, you have an eternity to share it!
Okay, so I will get to the real point... what I want is to have my return to the gospel. Dr. Stuart E. Rosenberg wrote in his book The Road to Confidence, ‘Despite all new inventions and modern designs, fads and fetishes, no one has yet invented, or will ever invent, a satisfying substitute for one’s own family.’ ”
My family was all raised in the LDS Church. Yet, I have watched as each brother and sister has fallen into inactivity. It truly breaks my heart.
If any of my family is reading this, I know your feelings towards the church. I think that it is too easy to focus on the restrictions that comes with church membership. Let's focus on the Blessings the knowledge of the Gospel gives us.
The Atonement
"In fact, it ought to be a matter of great doctrinal consolation to us that Jesus, in the course of the Atonement, experienced all of the heartache and sorrow, all of the disappointments and injustices that the entire family of man had experienced and would experience from Adam and Eve to the end of the world in order that we would not have to face them so severely or so deeply. However heavy our load might be, it would be a lot heavier if the Savior had not gone that way before us and carried that burden with us and for us." Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Where can you start? Alma 32: 27, 33, 36
27 But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than adesire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.
• • •
33 And now, behold, because ye have tried the experiment, and planted the seed, and it swelleth and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, ye must needs know that the seed is good.
• • •
36 Behold I say unto you, Nay; neither must ye lay aside your faith, for ye have only exercised your faith to plant the seed that ye might try the experiment to know if the seed was good.

Prayer
I can not even count how many times prayer has changed my life. I have been directed and comforted through prayer. I am grateful to know that ANYTIME I need heaven's help - I can receive it!

Okay, so I know I am asking for a lot this year, but it is worth it! Know that no matter what - I still love ya'll!
Merry Christmas!
And Santa, I know I am not giving you much time - but if anyone can do it- its all you big guy!!!

Thank you Santa....

2008-12-02T04:11:00.000-08:00

When I first moved to Salt Lake City - I moved into a fabulous singles ward - University 41st. At Christmas time, my dear Bishop Cutler and his wife invited me and several others from the ward to spend Christmas with their family. Since then, they have become my "surrogate" family. That first year, I had a knock at the door, just a few days before Christmas. It seemed that santa had made his rounds early that year - and was leaving gifts at doorsteps. I was really touched by "Santa's" genorosity and kindness, and kind of intrigued... who was this secret santa? Well, every year since then, Santa has found a way to deliver to the Cutler's every year since. I am baffled. I have had my suspicions through the years.... but have yet to figure out who the mystery Santa is. So, if you are reading this.... Thank you, Merry Christmas, and know that your gift meant so much that I have been inspired to be a secret santa for someone else.......
I love the spirit of the season!

Christmas Memories

2008-11-28T01:46:00.000-08:00

-Hearing Elvis Presley's Christmas always reminds me of home. One night, when I was about nine years old, our family was trying to have Family Home Evening. I think me and my sisters were probably driving Dad crazy. We were just a little wild. So, in his Marine Fashion, we had to get in a circle and march. March! Then he turned on Blue Christmas - for us to continue marching!
-Dancing in the kitchen with my grandma (Nannie Drasher).
-After opening presents, we usually played one of our new games together. I was so excited one year, because my older brother and sister were letting me play the game of Life with them. I showed my new found maturity by laughing so hard that I wet my pants - really!
-As a child, I would go to the craft store/boutique with my mom all the time. I would always kind of sneak away to look at this porcelin doll. I was always amazed to see a doll with brown hair and brown eyes like me! So, one day when the doll was gone, I was really sad. How surprised was I when Santa had brought that same doll for me!
-We always drove around to look at Christmas lights during the season. We always went to Hershey's Chocolate World - they have a Christmas set up there with lights and even reindeer! So much fun!!! The best part was mom getting pulled over for drunk driving! ( She was not drunk she was just under the influence of kids!)
Merry Christmas Memories!!!!!

What is your favorite Christmas Memory???

Pamper Yourself!!

2008-11-28T01:20:00.000-08:00

I work with a girl who is going to nail school. If you want to pamper yourself this holiday season - go and see her. The services are cheap - and on Mondays - half off!!!! Give her a call - Whitney Jackson 561-9112. She is at the school of nail technology at 85 East 7200 South. I can't wait!!!
Peg

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!!!!

2008-11-28T01:06:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! Now that Thanksgiving is officially over - it is time to ring in the holidays! List of Christmas stuff this year:
See the lights on Temple Square
I want to go ice skating - I have never been.
Christmas Caroling - it has been years!!!
make a gingerbread house!
Play Santa!!!
Make Cookies!
Sit on Santa's Lap - especially if santa is a young, eligible bachelor!
Kiss under the mistletoe
Drink Hot Chocolate
Watch A Christmas Story - you have to see this every year!!!
Read The Polar Express
Wrap gifts
Any other suggestions???
Anyone want to join me in the festivities?

I love family history... with technology

2008-11-28T00:58:00.000-08:00

My Dad is a Family History buff..... I really admire that in him. I have spent countless hours with him. Have you ever seen our books? Yeah, books on tombstones in Pennsylvania - exciting stuff. I am the one working on my mom's side of the family - which is so interesting. Dad is about to serve a service mission working with family history.
Technology has made this work so much easier! For instance, Dad sent me a picture of my great, great grandmother today. She lived over 100 years ago! Cool that I can get her picture just like that! Now - she is famous - posted on Peggy's blog for the world to see!!!!
". . . I encourage you . . . to begin to unlock the knowledge of who you really are by learning more about your forebears." James E. Faust.

I love a Parade!

2008-11-28T00:47:00.000-08:00

Since I was a small child, I have always spent Thanksgiving morning watching The Macy's Day Thanksgiving Parade. I love it! Today was no exception! I love the balloons and the floats. Plus, the bands bring me back to my days of marching band (yes - I was a band buddy!)Today, I loved this group called the Briefcase drill team, which was a group of men in women in suits and ties, carrying - you guessed it - briefcases! I love this picture of the Energizer Bunny - even he gets pooped out!
P!

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble

2008-11-28T00:40:00.000-08:00

I love the kindergartners that I am doing my student teaching with! For the last two weeks, the children have been given an assignment. We have been singing a song about a Turkey who runs away for Thanksgiving. They have to come up with a disguise. They have been so cute! From a baby turkey, to the incredible hulk and even a mermaid! I love them. And, if I was a turkey and had to hide....I would dress up as Mr. Potato Head... he is big and brown to begin with! Happy Thanksgiving and good luck finding your Turkey!
Miss Drasher

Did you hear?

2008-11-25T05:44:00.001-08:00

I love the rivalry between University of Utah and BYU Football! It is hilarious! I am a loyal U of Utah fan. Good thing that The U beat BYU 48 -24!!! YEAAHHH!
P

Peg, Peggy, Pegalina, Pegalie, Pegalicious

My new {old} goal

Thrifting is my addiction....

Time...

bitterness kills, gratitude heals

What do you at 2 A.M.

Time

Its amazing how life changes like that *!*

My new opportunity!

New Adventure

Dad Update

Wake Up Call

I have become a bitter old maid.

Can I just say that I totally rock......

Merry Christmas to me

Merry Christmas

New Project: Family History

Feeling Crafty

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Long time no blog.....

The Promised Land

Freecycle.com is my new bff... well maybe not b ff but gff....

Meet my friend....:)

Summer, summer, summertime.....

See the world!

Viva Las Vegas!!!!

My Sister

Favorite show

32!

Substituting

5 Dollar Deals

Happy Valentine's Day!

A Commentary on Dating in Utah

blah, blah, blah

Run, Peggy, Run!

Happy New Year

Peggy, you sure have come a long way...

Job Status

What odd jobs teach me...

Sparks of happiness

Halloween

Eyes of a child

I know there is a plan for me.... I just wish I knew what it was!

Life at the Airport

Job Search

Grandpa

YW Camp

A trip down memory lane....

Wonder Woman Award

I need an intervention....

***Just a quick note....

Happy Daddy's Day!!

This life is for the test....

My teaching website

Miss Scrappin Susie

Girls Camp Ideas

Cultivate.....

Wake Up Call

blog, blog, blog

Lessons Learned

Happy Mother's Day

Family Home Evening

Miracles do happen.....

Easter Traditions

Meet Miss Scrapblogger

Dreams......

What not to do while being observed....

Miracles do happen....

FACEinHOLE

Highlights of student teaching

Me & My Story

Am I crazy ....?

Totally random

Peggy Needs

Just a little plug.....

Happy Valentine's Day

Moments like these

Tag - You are it!

Is this the part where I become a grown up???? NOOOooooo, I'm not ready!!!

Life Changes

Its amazing how life changes like that !