The Ironman. 2.4 miles of open water swimming. 112 miles of road biking. 26.2 mile run (also known as a Marathon). It's a little ridiculous to say the least. Oh, I forgot to mention, a 17-hour time limit. (But does that really matter? Seriously, 17-hour long race, you're there for the day, what's another couple hours!?) Anywho, I have elected, by the stupidity that is natural within me, to accept this challenge, so that afterwards, I will be an Ironman.
The fun part of it all is that most normal human beings spend several months, if not years, preparing for this lovely spectacle of an adventure. (Yes, people watch this too. I wouldn't unless I was in it, I don't sit around for 8-17 hours doing 'nothing' for anyone, thanks!) Well, I am not normal; never have been and never will be. In fact, athletically I've always been quite mediocre sadly, never really accomplishing any great task or feat or such. Yet, my lack of normality in other areas must now compensate for my rather 'normal' athletic ability and carry me to that race of races! Let's get a few specifics down, shall we?
Race day Sept. 24th, 2011.
Mission End date (also known as earliest day that training could begin) April 16th, 2011.
Today May 24th, 2011.
So, from April 16th, 2011 to Sept. 24th, is 5 months and 8 days.
From April 16th, 2011 to May 24th, is 1 month and 8 days. (wow, I've already been home that long...weird, I was expecting to be engaged by now! haha)
So that leaves me with exactly 4 months of training left.
Well, what's happened in that 1 month and 8 days? ... umm..well, you see.. I ...uh.. if you really want to know... Swimming: about every day for the last 2-3 weeks with only a few days plus Sunday missing. I am using Total Immersion Swimming which is saving me from drowning! (I'm still learning how to breathe, but I finally learned how to swim, so that's going to be a strong point for me I hope.) Cycling: Well, I purchased my bicycle (for a price I won't name...haha) and have ridden it...once. I went for 56 minutes though! I just went around to get used to it. I averaged 16.9 mph (according to the fancy computer it has on it) and traveled exactly 16 miles. Running: i haven't so muched as jogged to and from the car!
Taking all these things as they are, if I don't improve my working out I will get to the Ironman, finish the swimming in about 1:40 (30 minutes longer than my goal), and bicycle for about 100 feet before dying. Haha.
Well, I'm not about to pay $300+ for a race that I'm only doing 1/3rd part of! So, I had better step up my game. I bought the bicycle, so now I MUST run the race. And if I'm to run the race, I'm to run it all the way! And in a reasonable time (sub 14-hours! [I could build a full shed in less time! Haha!]) so as to not be completely embarrassed and hardly be called an Ironman.
As such, I'd like everyone to keep me accountable. Hold me to my silliness! Tell me to run! Tell me to go to bed! Tell me to swim some laps! Bike some miles! To quit being a big lazy bum and get to it! I appreciate your concern on my behalf in this arduous task I've set before myself. (The things I'll do for a friend! Haha.)
So, here' my personal dedication to the matter. Tomorrow I'll begin my run! Tonight, (because tomorrow never comes..) I'll sleep so I can wake up so I can run! I'll just go until I no longer can tomorrow, to see how long I can run for. (I'll leave at 8 and be home by 8:15 knowing my slacker self..) I will succeed! That marathon is getting done in less than 4 hours! and that Bike ride? Less than 6! and swimming, a measly 1:11 to get that done. A grand total of 11:11! Because everyone knows I'm a math pattern junkie and the reace is on 9/24/2011...9-2+4=2x0+11! So it's calling to me! Must achieve an 11:11 time! (*NOTE: this is about 4-6 hours faster than most first time Ironman athletes, I'm trying to kill myself here. Just in case the world does end in early October, I won't have to see it! )
*Gulp* 'Here goes nothing!'
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Beware of Peculiar Business Opportunities
As many of you know, I have been on a scouring of 'oddjobnation.com' looking for occupations to help me make some money. I saw one that was peculiar, yes, you know, one of those 'make money at home' sort of things. Let's take a gander into the correspondence.... (I edited my personal information with *s, so all the blog stalkers out there don't know my information. [but let's face facts, I'd be happy to have anyone even read my blog, and if they wanted to contact me, the more the merrier, I could use more friends!])
(The morning of Tuesday, May 24th, 2011, on Yahoo! Messenger. 8:46 am)
Bryan Jordan: Hello
Bryan Jordan: Hello, how are you doing? Let me know when you are ready to get started with the interview?
Bryan Jordan: <ding>
Josh: I am here.
Josh: I am doing well, thank you.
Bryan Jordan: You're welcome
Bryan Jordan: Can we get started with the interview now?
Josh: Yes.
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Bryan Jordan: Before i start i hope you understand that your essential job duties are the following below;
· Perform administrative and clerical duties related to departmental needs
· Review, maintain, prepare a variety of reports, correspondence and presentations
· Assist with routine and special projects; monitor progress of projects
from initial request to completion
· Handle various inquiries from clients, employees, customers and refer
complex situations to appropriate individual
Bryan Jordan: Your pay for this job is $28/hr and Work hours are from 9am-3pm....Mon-Fri and you are also expected online on yahoo IM during working hours.
Daily task will be given to you online via yahoo messenger and also via email
Bryan Jordan: Answer the following questions below;
Bryan Jordan: Tell me a little about your self? and What motivates you? Tell me also why you want this position?
Do u have any job presently?
In your current or last position, what were your most significant accomplishments? In your career so far?
what would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
where do you see yourself in 5 years?
How long will you work with us ?
How do you tactfully suggest better ways of doing things?
How do you make competence, character and credibility priorities?
Give me two reasons why I should NOT hire you?
Give me four reasons why I should hire you?
Josh: I am 21, and am motivated by helping others thrive and be happy. I would like the position because I am currently saving money so I can begin my education adventure and also to gain experience in an administrative position. My job presently is working from home doing odd jobs- most custom construction. My most significant accomplishments is that I was the 'right hand man' for a General Contractor custom builder for 3 years (since I was 16) because I learn fast and work hard. My greatest strengths would be that I am diligent and hard working, and I have a terrible time cheating people out of money. If I am to be paid for something I will do everything I can to earn it, I don't believe it's morally acceptable to slack off when you're getting paid for a task. My greatest weaknesses lie in my
Josh: lack of experience and business naivity. I haven't been around long enough to learn as much as I would like. In 5 years from now I would see myself owning my own business or multiple, managing them and having them support my young family while I go to school. I only plan on working through the end of September this year before I take leave. To tactfully suggest new ideas I usually ask thought provoking questions, and ask questions that lead them to 'discover' a new option for themselves, so it's 'their idea'. I make priorities based on needs. If a certain need is greater, i.e. food vs. iPod, then I would limit energy placed to obtain the secondary need until first is met satisfactorily. Same with people; clients with more sensitive issues should be handled first, making needs met for the m
Josh: ost needed.
Josh: The two reasons you should not hire me is that I only plan on being around for 4 months or so, and it's a difficulty to only utilize someone for that long. The second reason is that it may take some time to train me; not saying that I learn slow, but it's a new thing for me and I will have a learning curve no matter what. Reasons you should hire me is because I work hard, and don't ever allow myself to 'steal' time from my employers. I love to learn, and I learn quickly. Hiring me will offer an upbeat and high morale character to your team. Another reason for hiring me would be an aid in helping the American Dream be accomplished for another youth in America. The most obvious reason, however to hire me would be that I could accomplish the task needed, and do them well, leaving a very goo
Josh: do mark on the business for the future.
Bryan Jordan: I must say i love the fact that you are willing to improve and also that you believe in your abilities, also i believe you are someone who is reliable and honest.
what bank do you operate with and have you ever been penalise for bad transaction? if yes why?
Josh: I use Ent Federal Credit Union. And, no, I have never been penalized.
Bryan Jordan: Good
Bryan Jordan: Pls hold and i will be with you soon...
Josh: Okay.
Bryan Jordan: I will be with you in 5 mins
Josh: Okay, thank you.
Bryan Jordan: After the careful review of your resume and answers you have provided during this interview, i believe you have great communication skills,your work history is perfect and you have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle this job.
Bryan Jordan: Welcome to The Data Inc...
You will undergo a two weeks accounting training course online... You will be needing the following items below for this job which will enable connect online for this course;
(1) Laptop with Intel® Core™ i7-720QM Quad Core Processor 1.6GHz (2.8GHz Turbo Mode, 6MB Cache) Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium, 64bit, English 1000 GB1 SATA Hard Drive (7200RPM) 9GB4 Shared Dual Channel DDR3 at 1066MHz Microsoft® Office Starter 2010
(2) Quick books (Pro 2010 version)
(3) Samsung Secured Modem(LSN)
(4) HP - LaserJet Pro CP1525NW Network-Ready Wireless Color Laser Printer
(5) Epson - WorkForce Pro GT-S50 Sheetfed Scanner
(6 Brother - IntelliFax Laser Fax/ Copier/ Printer
Bryan Jordan: You will receive a cashier's check from the company and once you get the cashier's check, you will have it deposited in your bank account, deduct $100 for your signing bonus and then have the funds sent to the supplier via western union money transfer in CASH so that the supplier can have you office items shipped to you...
Bryan Jordan: Once this is done, you will receive the software by UPS in 2days... i will be here to direct you as we proceed
Note that all this is done as a test to see if truly you can work efficiently with optimum professionalism without supervision.... this job is not a debate so i expect you to do exactly what i say not similar but exactly ....any insubordinate action may cost you this job ...i hope you understand ? if you have any problem let me know now?
Bryan Jordan: I will send you an email containing our employment agreement form. You will receive your full employment package by FedEx during the training period
Bryan Jordan: All communication will be done on IM, if you need to reach me and i'm not online then send me an email or call me (201) 688-7125
Bryan Jordan: Let me know if you have any questions to ask when you're done reading?
Josh: Looking at the requirements seems to be a bit beyond me at this time. I was not anticipating such items as a necessity. I was under the impression that a fast operating computer, solid internet connection, and good printer/scanner/fax might be necessary. I have those things, but I don't use a laptop, nor are my items the ones mentioned.
Bryan Jordan: If you read the above then you will know that the company will be providing all these for you
Bryan Jordan: once you get the cashier's check, you will have it deposited in your bank account, deduct $100 for your signing bonus and then have the funds sent to the supplier via western union money transfer in CASH so that the supplier can have you office items shipped to you...
Bryan Jordan: Do you understand better now?
Josh: Not entirely. I see it as suspicious behavior really. It's new to me though. If I understand it correctly I will be receiving a 'cashier's check' which I should deposit, then $100 is for the 'signing bonus' and the rest of it will then need to be transferred to a supplier who'll send me the supplies?
Bryan Jordan: Yes, that is very correct
Bryan Jordan: Do you have a problem with that?
Josh: Well, not entirely, it just seems hokey to me. I suppose this method would make it a way to verify who I am, but it also seems similar to methods I've heard that are a little sketchy. Any online transaction that utilizes moneyorders makes me wary.
Josh: However, unlike many
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Josh: you have a real website professionally designed, as well as if it's a cashier's check sent to me, it'd be me giving away money that was given to me, save 100 kept to me. So, I don't see how it would be used against me, but as I said, I am naive into the world of this thing.
Josh: Sadly, the thing I've learned in this world is that you can rarely trust people. So many offers, and so little successes.
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Bryan Jordan: Yes that is true
Bryan Jordan: I wouldn't persuade you to continue with this job offer
Bryan Jordan: Hope you find better opportunities elsewhere
Josh: I understand. Is there a way I might be able to get back to you in a little bit. (less than a day). I'd like to research the processing and see what I think of its legitimacy.
Bryan Jordan: okay
Bryan Jordan: good
Bryan Jordan is typing a message.
Bryan Jordan: bye for now
Josh: Talk to you later.
[ this is where I started looking at things online. Business reviews such as glassdoor.com, (cool site for future employment...) and looking up in Google 'cashier's checks, money order, online work from home' and came to a website: http://www.associatedbank.com/security/fakecheckscams.asp After the reading of this article, which I would recommend to you for you and your friends/family's awareness, I then sent 'Bryan (if that is his real name!)' a little note of my appreciation! As follows:
Josh: From what I can tell, this is a fraudulent activity. I do not appreciate it. There is no good reward for trying to let honest people pay for the dishonest's lack of real labor. I hope that you consider a different occupation. Thank you for your time. Also, thank you for your honesty in stating 'i wouldn't persuade you to continue with this job offer', it shows you recognize the damage you cause to people. Have a good day.
So, the peculiar job hunt continues! I think I'll stick to good old fashion labor for now....haha. This online money business is so ridiculous. What's sad is that it works on people or they wouldn't keep doing it! Sheesh, protect your people, and know the scams.
Another job I looked into was for a similar thing. It turned out to be gifting program. Offering big returns, sure, but it's a perpetually faulted system of new people's money making the previous person money, yet there is no 'income' or anything, it's 'gifts' from person to person, to allow other to give 'gifts' to you inside a network built on a infinite loop system of false money really. Well, real money, but illegitimate means of production. Beware of any system that doesn't make you work for your money. I mean real work, not some silly, cheap, 'join the club' nonsense where no products or services are offered. For more on THAT, the company name is SPN TODAY. A site that helps you recognize it for its true identity is here: http://topcashgiftingprograms.com/review.php?id=11
Now that I've shown you the world of nonsense, don't let yourself or others fall into it! (I've just been playing around with the whole thing, not really anticipating much return from the online things, so don't think I'm disheartened by lack of employment by these means, because I'm not.) I am saddened however at the sad ethics of my society. Tisk, tisk. Shame on them.
| hide details May 22 (2 days ago) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hello,
My name is Joshua. I'm currently looking for a part-time position, but only for a limited time. I should be in the area until the end of June, possibly a short time longer. If you have need of me, I would be glad to assist you! I am quick to learn and able to focus for long periods of time. My contact number is ***.***.****. Call and text are both acceptable. Thank you, and have a great day!
Yours Truly,
~Joshua L Ruby~
| hide details May 23 (1 day ago) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hello,
This is Mr. Larry Dekota under the office of the Vice President (Conrad Leao) of Data Inc.
Thanks for your application for this position and if you feel you are a better fit for the position
read the following duties below;
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Prepares source data for computer entry by compiling and sorting information; establishing entry priorities.
* Processes customer and account source documents by reviewing data for
deficiencies; resolving discrepancies by using standard procedures
or returning incomplete documents to the team leader for resolution.
* Enters customer and account data by inputting alphabetic and numeric information into company database.
* Maintains data entry requirements by following data program techniques and procedures.
* Verifies entered customer and account data by reviewing information.
* Maintains operations by following policies and procedures; reporting needed changes.
REQUIREMENTS:
You need a PC (as you will work full time from home), and a printer.
You would also need to setup a yahoo instant messenger ID (this is
very important and this would be the major means of communication) You
need to have adequate knowledge of your calculator, Excel Spreed
sheet, MS word.
BENEFITS PACKAGE
* Competitive salary
* Medical-Vision-Prescription- Dental coverage
* Short Term & Long Term Disability
* Paid Time Off Program
* An Employee Assistance Program
* Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
* Paid time off
* Holiday pay
* Training
JOB CRITERIA:
Start Date: immediately
Position Type: Full-Time Permanent/Part-time
Salary: $28 an hour
Work Time: 9am-3pm
The interview for this job program will be conducted online via yahoo
messenger, i know it's new but this will help ascertain your ability to
handle client on IM. Set up a yahoo messenger and send an Instant
Message to the Recruitment Officer Mr. Bryan Jordan at
dataincbiz@att.net. Once you get this email, the interview will be done
on Tuesday 24th of May by 9am your time. For more information on
the company see the website below.
Larry Dekota
Human Resource Manager
Data Inc.
(201) 688-7125
www.datainc.biz
This is Mr. Larry Dekota under the office of the Vice President (Conrad Leao) of Data Inc.
Thanks for your application for this position and if you feel you are a better fit for the position
read the following duties below;
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Prepares source data for computer entry by compiling and sorting information; establishing entry priorities.
* Processes customer and account source documents by reviewing data for
deficiencies; resolving discrepancies by using standard procedures
or returning incomplete documents to the team leader for resolution.
* Enters customer and account data by inputting alphabetic and numeric information into company database.
* Maintains data entry requirements by following data program techniques and procedures.
* Verifies entered customer and account data by reviewing information.
* Maintains operations by following policies and procedures; reporting needed changes.
REQUIREMENTS:
You need a PC (as you will work full time from home), and a printer.
You would also need to setup a yahoo instant messenger ID (this is
very important and this would be the major means of communication) You
need to have adequate knowledge of your calculator, Excel Spreed
sheet, MS word.
BENEFITS PACKAGE
* Competitive salary
* Medical-Vision-Prescription- Dental coverage
* Short Term & Long Term Disability
* Paid Time Off Program
* An Employee Assistance Program
* Basic Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
* Paid time off
* Holiday pay
* Training
JOB CRITERIA:
Start Date: immediately
Position Type: Full-Time Permanent/Part-time
Salary: $28 an hour
Work Time: 9am-3pm
The interview for this job program will be conducted online via yahoo
messenger, i know it's new but this will help ascertain your ability to
handle client on IM. Set up a yahoo messenger and send an Instant
Message to the Recruitment Officer Mr. Bryan Jordan at
dataincbiz@att.net. Once you get this email, the interview will be done
on Tuesday 24th of May by 9am your time. For more information on
the company see the website below.
Larry Dekota
Human Resource Manager
Data Inc.
(201) 688-7125
www.datainc.biz
(The morning of Tuesday, May 24th, 2011, on Yahoo! Messenger. 8:46 am)
Bryan Jordan: Hello
Bryan Jordan: Hello, how are you doing? Let me know when you are ready to get started with the interview?
Bryan Jordan: <ding>
Josh: I am here.
Josh: I am doing well, thank you.
Bryan Jordan: You're welcome
Bryan Jordan: Can we get started with the interview now?
Josh: Yes.
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Bryan Jordan: Before i start i hope you understand that your essential job duties are the following below;
· Perform administrative and clerical duties related to departmental needs
· Review, maintain, prepare a variety of reports, correspondence and presentations
· Assist with routine and special projects; monitor progress of projects
from initial request to completion
· Handle various inquiries from clients, employees, customers and refer
complex situations to appropriate individual
Bryan Jordan: Your pay for this job is $28/hr and Work hours are from 9am-3pm....Mon-Fri and you are also expected online on yahoo IM during working hours.
Daily task will be given to you online via yahoo messenger and also via email
Bryan Jordan: Answer the following questions below;
Bryan Jordan: Tell me a little about your self? and What motivates you? Tell me also why you want this position?
Do u have any job presently?
In your current or last position, what were your most significant accomplishments? In your career so far?
what would you say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
where do you see yourself in 5 years?
How long will you work with us ?
How do you tactfully suggest better ways of doing things?
How do you make competence, character and credibility priorities?
Give me two reasons why I should NOT hire you?
Give me four reasons why I should hire you?
Josh: I am 21, and am motivated by helping others thrive and be happy. I would like the position because I am currently saving money so I can begin my education adventure and also to gain experience in an administrative position. My job presently is working from home doing odd jobs- most custom construction. My most significant accomplishments is that I was the 'right hand man' for a General Contractor custom builder for 3 years (since I was 16) because I learn fast and work hard. My greatest strengths would be that I am diligent and hard working, and I have a terrible time cheating people out of money. If I am to be paid for something I will do everything I can to earn it, I don't believe it's morally acceptable to slack off when you're getting paid for a task. My greatest weaknesses lie in my
Josh: lack of experience and business naivity. I haven't been around long enough to learn as much as I would like. In 5 years from now I would see myself owning my own business or multiple, managing them and having them support my young family while I go to school. I only plan on working through the end of September this year before I take leave. To tactfully suggest new ideas I usually ask thought provoking questions, and ask questions that lead them to 'discover' a new option for themselves, so it's 'their idea'. I make priorities based on needs. If a certain need is greater, i.e. food vs. iPod, then I would limit energy placed to obtain the secondary need until first is met satisfactorily. Same with people; clients with more sensitive issues should be handled first, making needs met for the m
Josh: ost needed.
Josh: The two reasons you should not hire me is that I only plan on being around for 4 months or so, and it's a difficulty to only utilize someone for that long. The second reason is that it may take some time to train me; not saying that I learn slow, but it's a new thing for me and I will have a learning curve no matter what. Reasons you should hire me is because I work hard, and don't ever allow myself to 'steal' time from my employers. I love to learn, and I learn quickly. Hiring me will offer an upbeat and high morale character to your team. Another reason for hiring me would be an aid in helping the American Dream be accomplished for another youth in America. The most obvious reason, however to hire me would be that I could accomplish the task needed, and do them well, leaving a very goo
Josh: do mark on the business for the future.
Bryan Jordan: I must say i love the fact that you are willing to improve and also that you believe in your abilities, also i believe you are someone who is reliable and honest.
what bank do you operate with and have you ever been penalise for bad transaction? if yes why?
Josh: I use Ent Federal Credit Union. And, no, I have never been penalized.
Bryan Jordan: Good
Bryan Jordan: Pls hold and i will be with you soon...
Josh: Okay.
Bryan Jordan: I will be with you in 5 mins
Josh: Okay, thank you.
Bryan Jordan: After the careful review of your resume and answers you have provided during this interview, i believe you have great communication skills,your work history is perfect and you have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle this job.
Bryan Jordan: Welcome to The Data Inc...
You will undergo a two weeks accounting training course online... You will be needing the following items below for this job which will enable connect online for this course;
(1) Laptop with Intel® Core™ i7-720QM Quad Core Processor 1.6GHz (2.8GHz Turbo Mode, 6MB Cache) Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium, 64bit, English 1000 GB1 SATA Hard Drive (7200RPM) 9GB4 Shared Dual Channel DDR3 at 1066MHz Microsoft® Office Starter 2010
(2) Quick books (Pro 2010 version)
(3) Samsung Secured Modem(LSN)
(4) HP - LaserJet Pro CP1525NW Network-Ready Wireless Color Laser Printer
(5) Epson - WorkForce Pro GT-S50 Sheetfed Scanner
(6 Brother - IntelliFax Laser Fax/ Copier/ Printer
Bryan Jordan: You will receive a cashier's check from the company and once you get the cashier's check, you will have it deposited in your bank account, deduct $100 for your signing bonus and then have the funds sent to the supplier via western union money transfer in CASH so that the supplier can have you office items shipped to you...
Bryan Jordan: Once this is done, you will receive the software by UPS in 2days... i will be here to direct you as we proceed
Note that all this is done as a test to see if truly you can work efficiently with optimum professionalism without supervision.... this job is not a debate so i expect you to do exactly what i say not similar but exactly ....any insubordinate action may cost you this job ...i hope you understand ? if you have any problem let me know now?
Bryan Jordan: I will send you an email containing our employment agreement form. You will receive your full employment package by FedEx during the training period
Bryan Jordan: All communication will be done on IM, if you need to reach me and i'm not online then send me an email or call me (201) 688-7125
Bryan Jordan: Let me know if you have any questions to ask when you're done reading?
Josh: Looking at the requirements seems to be a bit beyond me at this time. I was not anticipating such items as a necessity. I was under the impression that a fast operating computer, solid internet connection, and good printer/scanner/fax might be necessary. I have those things, but I don't use a laptop, nor are my items the ones mentioned.
Bryan Jordan: If you read the above then you will know that the company will be providing all these for you
Bryan Jordan: once you get the cashier's check, you will have it deposited in your bank account, deduct $100 for your signing bonus and then have the funds sent to the supplier via western union money transfer in CASH so that the supplier can have you office items shipped to you...
Bryan Jordan: Do you understand better now?
Josh: Not entirely. I see it as suspicious behavior really. It's new to me though. If I understand it correctly I will be receiving a 'cashier's check' which I should deposit, then $100 is for the 'signing bonus' and the rest of it will then need to be transferred to a supplier who'll send me the supplies?
Bryan Jordan: Yes, that is very correct
Bryan Jordan: Do you have a problem with that?
Josh: Well, not entirely, it just seems hokey to me. I suppose this method would make it a way to verify who I am, but it also seems similar to methods I've heard that are a little sketchy. Any online transaction that utilizes moneyorders makes me wary.
Josh: However, unlike many
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Josh: you have a real website professionally designed, as well as if it's a cashier's check sent to me, it'd be me giving away money that was given to me, save 100 kept to me. So, I don't see how it would be used against me, but as I said, I am naive into the world of this thing.
Josh: Sadly, the thing I've learned in this world is that you can rarely trust people. So many offers, and so little successes.
Bryan Jordan: Okay
Bryan Jordan: Yes that is true
Bryan Jordan: I wouldn't persuade you to continue with this job offer
Bryan Jordan: Hope you find better opportunities elsewhere
Josh: I understand. Is there a way I might be able to get back to you in a little bit. (less than a day). I'd like to research the processing and see what I think of its legitimacy.
Bryan Jordan: okay
Bryan Jordan: good
Bryan Jordan is typing a message.
Bryan Jordan: bye for now
Josh: Talk to you later.
[ this is where I started looking at things online. Business reviews such as glassdoor.com, (cool site for future employment...) and looking up in Google 'cashier's checks, money order, online work from home' and came to a website: http://www.associatedbank.com/security/fakecheckscams.asp After the reading of this article, which I would recommend to you for you and your friends/family's awareness, I then sent 'Bryan (if that is his real name!)' a little note of my appreciation! As follows:
Josh: From what I can tell, this is a fraudulent activity. I do not appreciate it. There is no good reward for trying to let honest people pay for the dishonest's lack of real labor. I hope that you consider a different occupation. Thank you for your time. Also, thank you for your honesty in stating 'i wouldn't persuade you to continue with this job offer', it shows you recognize the damage you cause to people. Have a good day.
So, the peculiar job hunt continues! I think I'll stick to good old fashion labor for now....haha. This online money business is so ridiculous. What's sad is that it works on people or they wouldn't keep doing it! Sheesh, protect your people, and know the scams.
Another job I looked into was for a similar thing. It turned out to be gifting program. Offering big returns, sure, but it's a perpetually faulted system of new people's money making the previous person money, yet there is no 'income' or anything, it's 'gifts' from person to person, to allow other to give 'gifts' to you inside a network built on a infinite loop system of false money really. Well, real money, but illegitimate means of production. Beware of any system that doesn't make you work for your money. I mean real work, not some silly, cheap, 'join the club' nonsense where no products or services are offered. For more on THAT, the company name is SPN TODAY. A site that helps you recognize it for its true identity is here: http://topcashgiftingprograms.com/review.php?id=11
Now that I've shown you the world of nonsense, don't let yourself or others fall into it! (I've just been playing around with the whole thing, not really anticipating much return from the online things, so don't think I'm disheartened by lack of employment by these means, because I'm not.) I am saddened however at the sad ethics of my society. Tisk, tisk. Shame on them.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Small Business
I've decided to start a small business. Considering I am right now just getting ready to travel the country, I need some funds to help me along. I'd beg for donations and things but there's a strange negative connotation that comes when you arbitrarily ask for money that you only plan on using for personal gratification (strange how that works!). That left me with industry! Guess I'll just have to do things the old fashioned way with work! Like Adam! By the sweat of my face! (I could do something less physical, it's not like I'm completely inept in such things such as interpersonal communications and marketing or such, but it's not my style, I'd rather start businesses of labor and manage and sell them, rather than do some white-collar job.)
Inasmuch as I've started a business, it's a peculiar thing. Not many people my age, that I've met, have done it, they seem to be stuck in the broken mentality of 'get educated and make yourself applicable so you can find a job', which, if anyone would take a good honest look at that system, they'd realize there is a severe flaw! If everyone simply 'found' a job, there'd be no one 'making' jobs! So, I'm not 'finding' a job to go work for someone, that's silliness! (You'll never make real money working under someone else!) I'm venturing out on a limb that I've dreamed to go out on for several years, since as long as I could remember my goal has been to never fill out an application for employment, but to own my own company(ies). Now the dream is in partial fulfillment in that I will only be doing this one part-time, or rather, a limited time, through the end of September.
The only thing I know how to do is build! So, naturally it's the only thing I can sell myself for! I did do an 'odd-job' locator online to just have fun doing a bunch of little small jobs (mostly for experience, they'll barely pay for my gas money I imagine...haha), of which some were manual labor, and some were office jobs, and tomorrow I get to do my first male modeling gig, that'll be fun! Bet you didn't see that one coming!
My business is titled 'Backyard Constructions'. I will be specializing in the construction of all buildings less than 120 sq. ft. (due to the fact that is when permits are required and I'm not bothering to get my contractor's license yet just for this. AND I can fill a niche for smaller buildings) I will mostly focus on sheds, tree houses (which I'm way excited to do!), green houses (I've developed an ingenious design to maximize space with minimal materials and expense!), playhouses, gazebos, pergolas, and other things similar. I also plan on installing badminton nets, and if I get good, even tennis nets for grass use. Pretty much any product I can do, so it's really going to be a lot of fun!
Who knows, I might even make money...imagine that, money making without getting hired by a company...strange how that works! : ) (Note: I have nothing against working for a company or anything like that, it's necessary to function. Not everyone can be their own boss, many people aren't cut out for it. As well, if everyone was their own boss, we'd be too inefficient in productivity, there has to be people in the system to run the system, I just don't want to be one of those people personally. Also, capital isn't just happenstance, it often takes an occupation under someone else to gain the experience and funding necessary to branch out into one's own agenda!)
Inasmuch as I've started a business, it's a peculiar thing. Not many people my age, that I've met, have done it, they seem to be stuck in the broken mentality of 'get educated and make yourself applicable so you can find a job', which, if anyone would take a good honest look at that system, they'd realize there is a severe flaw! If everyone simply 'found' a job, there'd be no one 'making' jobs! So, I'm not 'finding' a job to go work for someone, that's silliness! (You'll never make real money working under someone else!) I'm venturing out on a limb that I've dreamed to go out on for several years, since as long as I could remember my goal has been to never fill out an application for employment, but to own my own company(ies). Now the dream is in partial fulfillment in that I will only be doing this one part-time, or rather, a limited time, through the end of September.
The only thing I know how to do is build! So, naturally it's the only thing I can sell myself for! I did do an 'odd-job' locator online to just have fun doing a bunch of little small jobs (mostly for experience, they'll barely pay for my gas money I imagine...haha), of which some were manual labor, and some were office jobs, and tomorrow I get to do my first male modeling gig, that'll be fun! Bet you didn't see that one coming!
My business is titled 'Backyard Constructions'. I will be specializing in the construction of all buildings less than 120 sq. ft. (due to the fact that is when permits are required and I'm not bothering to get my contractor's license yet just for this. AND I can fill a niche for smaller buildings) I will mostly focus on sheds, tree houses (which I'm way excited to do!), green houses (I've developed an ingenious design to maximize space with minimal materials and expense!), playhouses, gazebos, pergolas, and other things similar. I also plan on installing badminton nets, and if I get good, even tennis nets for grass use. Pretty much any product I can do, so it's really going to be a lot of fun!
Who knows, I might even make money...imagine that, money making without getting hired by a company...strange how that works! : ) (Note: I have nothing against working for a company or anything like that, it's necessary to function. Not everyone can be their own boss, many people aren't cut out for it. As well, if everyone was their own boss, we'd be too inefficient in productivity, there has to be people in the system to run the system, I just don't want to be one of those people personally. Also, capital isn't just happenstance, it often takes an occupation under someone else to gain the experience and funding necessary to branch out into one's own agenda!)
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
So.... (what kind of title is that? whatever...)
I have been thinking... I need to dance with someone! That's what I've been thinking! Two years of deprivation and I should not have to stand anymore! So, any takers!?
In other news; swimming!? Who thought that up as a fun activity. Drowning is not enjoyable. If it wasn't for this silly IronMan I'm prepping for I'd stick to casual outings only. Back and forth, back and forth....I need a lake! Anyone have a lake I can use? (of course then I'd probably actually drown...)
Romantic music. Yep. I enjoy it. Mostly songs that I can DANCE to! I like them. I'm a hopeless romantic to the extreme and need some music! Recommendations welcome!
Tools. Clothes. Shoes. Food. Anything really. I've realized that buying sub-par costs you more in the long run. I bought a watch for $10, and for experiment's sake, used it as a control my whole mission. Well, the week before I left I fell on my unicycle and it broke the face of it. So, after it broke after about 3 weeks (the MTC), I bought another, exact same one! A few months go by and guess what happens!? Yep! The band breaks! So, I bought another, of course! Months go by and that silly face broke again! This time I took the face of the second and band of the third and used that one until the duration of my mission. Then, upon my return home, I broke the face of it again! So, $30 for two years. Should've gotten a durable watch in the first place! My advice: buy the least expensive item that will not detract from the necessity of the item. If you're doing a one time job or doing things at a very entry level, say you're putting up picture frames and that's about all the construction you ever plan on doing...buy the cheapest drill set available, it'll work for you. However, if you ever want to actually USE your tools, and USE them for a LONG time, buy good tools. The hassle, or lack thereof, will make up the investment infinitely! (This comment comes from me taking my Makita for granted, having to use a Rigid drill yesterday...thank goodness' that only lasted for a day...[now I'm spoiled!])
And one last thing! Hmm..I have to think of one...Oh! Hairstyles! I'd like to know what people think are good hairstyles for me. I usually do a side part as of yet (at my mother's recommendation), but I'd like to listen to the populous so I can please you! Haha. (Because that's what I'm here for, right?)
There, an interactive blog. Have a good day!
In other news; swimming!? Who thought that up as a fun activity. Drowning is not enjoyable. If it wasn't for this silly IronMan I'm prepping for I'd stick to casual outings only. Back and forth, back and forth....I need a lake! Anyone have a lake I can use? (of course then I'd probably actually drown...)
Romantic music. Yep. I enjoy it. Mostly songs that I can DANCE to! I like them. I'm a hopeless romantic to the extreme and need some music! Recommendations welcome!
Tools. Clothes. Shoes. Food. Anything really. I've realized that buying sub-par costs you more in the long run. I bought a watch for $10, and for experiment's sake, used it as a control my whole mission. Well, the week before I left I fell on my unicycle and it broke the face of it. So, after it broke after about 3 weeks (the MTC), I bought another, exact same one! A few months go by and guess what happens!? Yep! The band breaks! So, I bought another, of course! Months go by and that silly face broke again! This time I took the face of the second and band of the third and used that one until the duration of my mission. Then, upon my return home, I broke the face of it again! So, $30 for two years. Should've gotten a durable watch in the first place! My advice: buy the least expensive item that will not detract from the necessity of the item. If you're doing a one time job or doing things at a very entry level, say you're putting up picture frames and that's about all the construction you ever plan on doing...buy the cheapest drill set available, it'll work for you. However, if you ever want to actually USE your tools, and USE them for a LONG time, buy good tools. The hassle, or lack thereof, will make up the investment infinitely! (This comment comes from me taking my Makita for granted, having to use a Rigid drill yesterday...thank goodness' that only lasted for a day...[now I'm spoiled!])
And one last thing! Hmm..I have to think of one...Oh! Hairstyles! I'd like to know what people think are good hairstyles for me. I usually do a side part as of yet (at my mother's recommendation), but I'd like to listen to the populous so I can please you! Haha. (Because that's what I'm here for, right?)
There, an interactive blog. Have a good day!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Stewardship
The other day in my reading I didn't have a lot of time to read, so I just opened up a page and cross referenced topics and story features from things I remembered (my most common way of scripture study; to cross reference every reference that isn't already done in the footnotes, a challenge because you need to know the references from memory, because they aren't written anywhere!) The topic that intrigued me was on stewardship.
Oftentimes you'll see in my blogs an * which in most cases are notes to me and others that there will be a future post on a topic. So, as in last night's foreshadowing, here is my commentary quickly on stewardship...
The verse I opened to was Alma 18:6, "For he had slain many of them because their brethren had scattered their flocks at the place of water; and thus, because they had had their flocks scattered they were slain." It's very educating to look at parallels of action between the learned and ignorant, righteous and iniquitous, light and dark, etc. The actions are in many cases similar and are used as allegories of systems. Many of the things wicked kings do to punish their subjects are the same things righteous kings do to chastise them, at least in the root of the concepts. This example is the king killing those who didn't care for his sheep. As stewards, we are going to be accountable for taking care of our 'sheep' whatever that is in our life.
In Jacob 5 there's much on this topic. In Luke 15:8-10, the parable of the woman and the silver pieces is given. As Talmage mentions in Jesus the Christ, it's a parable also discussing the ecclesiastical stewardship of the children of Christ. We are given the Priesthood, therefore the commission, and our souls are in subjection to how well we fulfill that commission (Jacob 2:19). Jacob 2 is really great in that it shows a leader explaining his role as a leader(as well as Msh. 2:18), and giving the people an understanding of why he does what he does.
The role of *record keeping is also one of stewardship! (3Ne. 23; Alma 37:[1-12])
Stewardship is to provide a task on the behalf of another. The item may be a soul in its own right, or simply matter to 'be acted upon', but all things fall in someone's stewardship, and all must be accounted for. *Husbandry is a form of stewardship that I will discuss later.
The point of this post is to point out that no one is exempt from responsibility, and that we are under full obligation to fulfill the tasks we've been given in conjunction with that stewardship. Only by becoming stewards of what we have, even if it's small, then shall we be 'good and faithful servants' and be invited to 'be ruler[s] of many things' and to enjoy 'the joy of thy [L]ord'. And, like missions, once we have reported in our stewardship, we shall be added upon. This goes back with all topics; revelation (Alma 12:10-11, D&C 50:24), or kingdoms (Alma 20:26-27), or anything (Matt. 25:14-30)! Always ask oneself, 'Who/what is in my stewardship? What can I do for them today?
Oftentimes you'll see in my blogs an * which in most cases are notes to me and others that there will be a future post on a topic. So, as in last night's foreshadowing, here is my commentary quickly on stewardship...
The verse I opened to was Alma 18:6, "For he had slain many of them because their brethren had scattered their flocks at the place of water; and thus, because they had had their flocks scattered they were slain." It's very educating to look at parallels of action between the learned and ignorant, righteous and iniquitous, light and dark, etc. The actions are in many cases similar and are used as allegories of systems. Many of the things wicked kings do to punish their subjects are the same things righteous kings do to chastise them, at least in the root of the concepts. This example is the king killing those who didn't care for his sheep. As stewards, we are going to be accountable for taking care of our 'sheep' whatever that is in our life.
In Jacob 5 there's much on this topic. In Luke 15:8-10, the parable of the woman and the silver pieces is given. As Talmage mentions in Jesus the Christ, it's a parable also discussing the ecclesiastical stewardship of the children of Christ. We are given the Priesthood, therefore the commission, and our souls are in subjection to how well we fulfill that commission (Jacob 2:19). Jacob 2 is really great in that it shows a leader explaining his role as a leader(as well as Msh. 2:18), and giving the people an understanding of why he does what he does.
The role of *record keeping is also one of stewardship! (3Ne. 23; Alma 37:[1-12])
Stewardship is to provide a task on the behalf of another. The item may be a soul in its own right, or simply matter to 'be acted upon', but all things fall in someone's stewardship, and all must be accounted for. *Husbandry is a form of stewardship that I will discuss later.
The point of this post is to point out that no one is exempt from responsibility, and that we are under full obligation to fulfill the tasks we've been given in conjunction with that stewardship. Only by becoming stewards of what we have, even if it's small, then shall we be 'good and faithful servants' and be invited to 'be ruler[s] of many things' and to enjoy 'the joy of thy [L]ord'. And, like missions, once we have reported in our stewardship, we shall be added upon. This goes back with all topics; revelation (Alma 12:10-11, D&C 50:24), or kingdoms (Alma 20:26-27), or anything (Matt. 25:14-30)! Always ask oneself, 'Who/what is in my stewardship? What can I do for them today?
Missions
Now that I've explained why I'm awake at this hour, I will proceed to write shortly on the topic of missions. A mission is an operation where a goal is intended to be accomplished. Particularly enough, missions have an innate concept of accountability in that the mission is to be reported on to someone; a Parent, an employer, or even oneself. Missions cover any genre, whether it's a goal to lose weight, gain weight, live old, die young, or any combination! More important missions I believe focus on things that are everlasting, or eternal, in nature.
The term 'eternal' is interesting in that it conveys a message of 'no beginning and no end', 'one eternal round', or as I like to think about it, the recycle sign with these parts: Mission Objective, Mission Pursuit, Mission Report. Our growth is dependent upon our ability and willingness to receive missions, fulfill them, and report on the task with anticipation for another mission to fulfill. It forms an expanding helix of development, and without missions/goals/objectives there will be no advancement. As Alice learned from the Cheshire Cat, if you don't know where you want to go, 'then either way will take you there' (well, in her instance, like many of ours oftentimes, her goal was 'nowhere' and that's where she'd end up had she walked anywhere! [or stayed still, because she was obviously in a pretty 'nowhere' place as it was]). Without an intention our actions are futile, like oars turning our boat in circles!(Road to El Dorado...haha).
To give a few examples, to be short I won't go through the whole Book tonight, though I would like to sometime. Scriptures often are repetitive. Coincidence!? I think not! (The Incredibles). Many times we see the small topics in repetition, but how often do we look at the larger analogies and allegories in play? To mention a few of my favorites!: Nephi!-Lehi is given heavenly knowledge and his mission is calling him to provide his family safety, receive wondrous blessings, and to help his descendants enjoy the blessings he is to obtain. We see that he sets out immediately, not trying to refute the offer. Then that family goes through all sorts of mini-missions (allegories within allegories), returning to Jerusalem to obtain records(1Ne. 3-5). Return and report. Receive mission to obtain Ishmael(1Ne. 7). Return and report. Called to build a bow in dire circumstances(1Ne. 16), this prepared him for future goal of building a boat(1Ne. 18), and even later yet to prepare his people to thrive in industry(2Ne. 5). Every mission was gladly received by the righteous (at the time, even Lehi did murmur, but as mortals we are often blinded by the trees when we're looking to see the forest), and the wicked rebelled against these things. Rebellion caused because of lack of faith. A hope for things not seen which are true. They lacked hope they'd gain from their journey. They lacked hope they could accomplish the tasks! Yet, only by completely the mission was happiness possible, anything shirking the difficulty only leads to misery! (Why not just accept the mission and do it right the first time!?)
The next example is Jacob 5. Yep, you know that one, all those trees and such... I love Jacob 5! The Lord of the Vineyard working with servants to maintain, protect, and be true *stewards, and husbands of their crop. If you read it studying the way the Lord works with the servants in ways of tasks and reports it really gives a great concept of our returning to account for our labors in our fields of endeavor.
The next example is the Sons of Mosiah. After their conversion in Msh. 27 they set out (in 28) to teach the Lamanites. Their task fulfilling is discussed from Alma 17-26, which, in 26 is the reunion, and what do they do? They return and report! (This example even shows a cool depiction of Priesthood protocol, because not only was Alma their friend, he was the High Priest over the Church. HINT: DO YOUR PPIs!)
This is getting lengthy, so I'll close with the mission we are now on. Mortality. After eons of serving missions that helped us prepare for mortality in the spirit form, we have, as mortals, obviously accepted the commission to 'return with honor' back to our Father in Heaven. Now to blend the examples into this one: Like Nephi, our trials will bring us our education. If we decide to accept any challenge, like Nephi, we'll be optimistic in challenges (1Ne. 17:2) or try to shirk the inevitable (because we HAVE ALREADY ACCEPTED the commission) and wallow in misery for ourselves (1Ne. 17:20) even though it's the same trial! Yet, as Jacob 5 teaches, the Lord is aiding! We're not on missions alone out here. [Quick note: COmmandments are given to us, never DEmandments. CO means 'with', always referring to a partnership. DE means 'without' or 'remove', and not coincidentally has a strong negative connotation usually. We are COmmanded to fulfill our tasks, even the hard ones (Matt. 5:48/3Ne. 12:48), which means that we are given a 'mandate', or requirement, and we have His partnership to fulfill it. He has never given a DEmandment, where he has a 'mandate' and offers no help in our accomplishment thereof. Never forget that!] Finally as we learn from Alma, Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni (and others throughout the Book), if we fulfill our tasks to the best of our ability, we will have joy! Our returning and reporting won't be sheepish or cowardly, or even worse yet, desiring to be covered to hide(Alma 12:14)! We will gladly stand up and accept responsibility and look forward to accounting for the many sheaves we've obtained(Alma 26:5,6)!
Conclusion: serve missions. Realize that everyone on this planet is a child of heavenly Parents, and as such, each has a divine nature and destiny (The Family: A Proclamation to the World). See others on the path towards the Tree of Life (1Ne.8,11,15) and help them out! Do your best, and return and report! (so often as things occur, I wrote this with myself as the problem-child to fix....haha).
The term 'eternal' is interesting in that it conveys a message of 'no beginning and no end', 'one eternal round', or as I like to think about it, the recycle sign with these parts: Mission Objective, Mission Pursuit, Mission Report. Our growth is dependent upon our ability and willingness to receive missions, fulfill them, and report on the task with anticipation for another mission to fulfill. It forms an expanding helix of development, and without missions/goals/objectives there will be no advancement. As Alice learned from the Cheshire Cat, if you don't know where you want to go, 'then either way will take you there' (well, in her instance, like many of ours oftentimes, her goal was 'nowhere' and that's where she'd end up had she walked anywhere! [or stayed still, because she was obviously in a pretty 'nowhere' place as it was]). Without an intention our actions are futile, like oars turning our boat in circles!(Road to El Dorado...haha).
To give a few examples, to be short I won't go through the whole Book tonight, though I would like to sometime. Scriptures often are repetitive. Coincidence!? I think not! (The Incredibles). Many times we see the small topics in repetition, but how often do we look at the larger analogies and allegories in play? To mention a few of my favorites!: Nephi!-Lehi is given heavenly knowledge and his mission is calling him to provide his family safety, receive wondrous blessings, and to help his descendants enjoy the blessings he is to obtain. We see that he sets out immediately, not trying to refute the offer. Then that family goes through all sorts of mini-missions (allegories within allegories), returning to Jerusalem to obtain records(1Ne. 3-5). Return and report. Receive mission to obtain Ishmael(1Ne. 7). Return and report. Called to build a bow in dire circumstances(1Ne. 16), this prepared him for future goal of building a boat(1Ne. 18), and even later yet to prepare his people to thrive in industry(2Ne. 5). Every mission was gladly received by the righteous (at the time, even Lehi did murmur, but as mortals we are often blinded by the trees when we're looking to see the forest), and the wicked rebelled against these things. Rebellion caused because of lack of faith. A hope for things not seen which are true. They lacked hope they'd gain from their journey. They lacked hope they could accomplish the tasks! Yet, only by completely the mission was happiness possible, anything shirking the difficulty only leads to misery! (Why not just accept the mission and do it right the first time!?)
The next example is Jacob 5. Yep, you know that one, all those trees and such... I love Jacob 5! The Lord of the Vineyard working with servants to maintain, protect, and be true *stewards, and husbands of their crop. If you read it studying the way the Lord works with the servants in ways of tasks and reports it really gives a great concept of our returning to account for our labors in our fields of endeavor.
The next example is the Sons of Mosiah. After their conversion in Msh. 27 they set out (in 28) to teach the Lamanites. Their task fulfilling is discussed from Alma 17-26, which, in 26 is the reunion, and what do they do? They return and report! (This example even shows a cool depiction of Priesthood protocol, because not only was Alma their friend, he was the High Priest over the Church. HINT: DO YOUR PPIs!)
This is getting lengthy, so I'll close with the mission we are now on. Mortality. After eons of serving missions that helped us prepare for mortality in the spirit form, we have, as mortals, obviously accepted the commission to 'return with honor' back to our Father in Heaven. Now to blend the examples into this one: Like Nephi, our trials will bring us our education. If we decide to accept any challenge, like Nephi, we'll be optimistic in challenges (1Ne. 17:2) or try to shirk the inevitable (because we HAVE ALREADY ACCEPTED the commission) and wallow in misery for ourselves (1Ne. 17:20) even though it's the same trial! Yet, as Jacob 5 teaches, the Lord is aiding! We're not on missions alone out here. [Quick note: COmmandments are given to us, never DEmandments. CO means 'with', always referring to a partnership. DE means 'without' or 'remove', and not coincidentally has a strong negative connotation usually. We are COmmanded to fulfill our tasks, even the hard ones (Matt. 5:48/3Ne. 12:48), which means that we are given a 'mandate', or requirement, and we have His partnership to fulfill it. He has never given a DEmandment, where he has a 'mandate' and offers no help in our accomplishment thereof. Never forget that!] Finally as we learn from Alma, Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni (and others throughout the Book), if we fulfill our tasks to the best of our ability, we will have joy! Our returning and reporting won't be sheepish or cowardly, or even worse yet, desiring to be covered to hide(Alma 12:14)! We will gladly stand up and accept responsibility and look forward to accounting for the many sheaves we've obtained(Alma 26:5,6)!
Conclusion: serve missions. Realize that everyone on this planet is a child of heavenly Parents, and as such, each has a divine nature and destiny (The Family: A Proclamation to the World). See others on the path towards the Tree of Life (1Ne.8,11,15) and help them out! Do your best, and return and report! (so often as things occur, I wrote this with myself as the problem-child to fix....haha).
Insanity.
I think I'm going through infant-life crisis! It's similar to the crazy antics of mid-life, but since I really am right out of the gestation period of life (right off my mission being kicked into reality) it's not really quite mid-life yet. A few of these things are; trying to train for an Ironman for Sept. 24th. in just 4-5 months of training, buying a $1200 bike to support that race, spending another $1000 on travel and visiting friends and buying studying materials, and about $300 on clothes and tools. Basically, I let myself go, in the worst kind of way... Also, one of the things I'm doing as of late is to maximize my time and suck all the time I can out of life. I'm making 'more hours in the day' to accomplish this, which I'm sure is not the best of choices. Lately, as many might have noticed, I've been retiring for sleep about 2-3:30am and arising at 7-7:30. My goal is to wake by 6:30 consistently (because I believe successful people all arise before 6 and I'm working my way there!). That's a little blurb into my insanity. A club better left unjoined.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
A quick trip to Utah.
I feel that my blog is rather drab without pictures, so I need to put some on here, and from what I can tell, the only way to do that is to do a post. This will be a brief rundown of my trip to Utah, April 19th-25th, 2011. I returned home from Texas on the 16th, gave a talk in Sacrament Meeting on the 17th, bought some new clothes and food on the 18th, and the 19th...set out!
I left at about 7:40 in the morning with a Styrofoam cooler that had Popsicles in the bottom with dry ice on top, with wet ice on that, and some ham, yogurt cups, and mayonnaise. Also took a loaf of my favorite Sara Lee Wheat Bread. I drove Hwy 24 to CO 9 to I-70. Gorgeous! Buena Vista and the mountains in that area are absolutely breathtaking, I highly recommend it. Sadly my camera was in my backpack still, so no pictures of it. From there I drove toward Grand Junction and stopped at my first stop...some no name place...
I left at about 7:40 in the morning with a Styrofoam cooler that had Popsicles in the bottom with dry ice on top, with wet ice on that, and some ham, yogurt cups, and mayonnaise. Also took a loaf of my favorite Sara Lee Wheat Bread. I drove Hwy 24 to CO 9 to I-70. Gorgeous! Buena Vista and the mountains in that area are absolutely breathtaking, I highly recommend it. Sadly my camera was in my backpack still, so no pictures of it. From there I drove toward Grand Junction and stopped at my first stop...some no name place...
I continued my journey through Price and to Provo where I bought my Temple Clothes and then headed up to Salt Lake City. I arrived there about 7:30 and I spent the little time I had organizing the car. I then called a few people to get the right address, because my memory is flawed...and went to meet Briana.
I texted her, as per our 'plan' and let her know I was able to 'chat'. At the same time I knocked on her door. The expression on her face was surprised (because she thought I was in Colorado), and I won't try to describe it, but it was a good time as one could imagine. We had a surreal Hollywood moment, probably the first in my life, in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. It started by us walking to 'get something to eat' but with no decisions made we walked toward Temple Square and then to the JSMB so she could show me where she works. We went to the 10th floor and she walked us through a nearly abandoned kitchen (because the night was nigh closed down by then...) into one of the banquet rooms. It over looked the East Wall of the Salt Lake Temple and had the perfect ambiance of a place to sit and talk. Very picturesque. We talked for hours before leaving, what a cool place really!
I continued my task to visit the Temples in the area. That night I slept in my car in a Wal-Mart parking lot; that was cool. Showered and got ready at the Jardine home (missionary companion's family) and did a session at the Bountiful Temple after spending a lot of money at Deseret Book (we won't talk about how much, that's embarrassing).
From there had fun with Briana. That night I stayed with Max Harris, my training companion, (after an unplanned game of volleyball with the people at the church across the street, that lasted until midnight) and caught up with him a bit. Left at 7 the next morning and did Initiatories at Mt. Timpanogos.
I then left there to get to the Salt Lake Temple. That's an awesome experience, that everyone needs to do!
I then had more fun with Briana going to the Carl Bloch display at BYU in Provo. It was very good, I thoroughly enjoyed it! Stayed at the Jardine home and in the morning went to do sessions at the Jordan River Temple
followed by the Oquirrh Mountain
and the Draper Temple (where I was able to do some Sealings for the first time, sweet experience!).
After that day of Temple hopping Briana and I attended the wedding reception of KC Nate and his new bride. (Elder Nate took me out on my first night in the mission field). This picture is with Shayne and Kortneigh, his wife. Shayne was one of my Zone Leaders and Assistant to the President with whom I was able to work quite closely for a while, awesome fella!
Stayed again with the Jardine family and woke up in the morning and did Temple Baptisms in the Salt Lake
Temple and left for my adventure to St. George around 1:30.
It was drizzling most of the way there, which made rainbows, only enhancing the scenery native to Utah!
I arrived in St. George, ate at the 'oh-so-raved-about' In-N-Out Burger. It was good, but I can't hardly say it was THAT good...sheesh! Some people apparently don't know how to tell a story without exaggeration! (I'd recommend it to others though.) I made it to the Temple at 7:30 and attended the 8pm session at the St. George Temple. Cool historical feel there, definitely a good choice to visit the extra 6 hour drive there!
Stayed the night at a missionary friend's place. Attended a YSA ward on Sunday, first one ever, which was a little different, but not a whole lot.The day was Easter and I visited Rachel and her husband Erick. It was excellent to see them doing well, and odd at the same time to see her 6 months pregnant...the mission bubble is a strange thing!
Also attended a Fireside presentation of Rob Gardner's presentation of Joseph Smith the Prophet, which was very good. I invite all who haven't heard it to seek it out and enjoy it for yourself!
After that I watched my first movie after my mission; Yes Man, which was too lewd, crude, and crass for me, so I haven't watched a movie since; they really are as bad as I remembered--some things never change!
I left St. George in the morning and returned home 11 hours later or so, and attended a YSA FHE before arriving at home. (It's not like I had anything else to do...)
These are some pictures from that gorgeous drive! This concludes this travel log. (Which is much longer than most posts will be!)
Premise
Hello everyone. The blog to be established is the one that will help myself Return with Honor. In the world of 'missions' (to be later discussed in a post) Returning with Honor is the goal. To be able to 'return and report', and give a report that satisfies the initial prospect and design. In the recent return from my mission as a Full-Time Missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I have started this blog to help myself Return with Honor in the greater 'missions' to come, or moreover, to finish the 'mission' that I've started thus far to fulfill.
The scope of the blog is undetermined, but there are a few things to keep in mind about my blog and my posts:
I like to write (or talk, or make noise, or voice things, however you wish to 'say' it!). I will most likely rant (which, strangely enough, is how some of the greatest things I've ever learned developed; by taking something much further than one normally would).
I also will do my best to maintain brevity, clarity, and power in my blog so that readers won't get daunted by the task of reading, and, in some small way, be able to uplift others in their efforts to Return with Honor!
The scope of the blog is undetermined, but there are a few things to keep in mind about my blog and my posts:
I like to write (or talk, or make noise, or voice things, however you wish to 'say' it!). I will most likely rant (which, strangely enough, is how some of the greatest things I've ever learned developed; by taking something much further than one normally would).
I also will do my best to maintain brevity, clarity, and power in my blog so that readers won't get daunted by the task of reading, and, in some small way, be able to uplift others in their efforts to Return with Honor!
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