Friday, December 24, 2010

Decisions, decisions

As the new year approaches, it is always a time for reflection.
We ponder how this next year is going to be our year and how we are going to lay off the chocolate and hit the gym....for real!

That being said, I have a sneaky feeling as if there are some major decisions that have the power to alter my current path in life. They just take a leap of faith.

Sometimes, I'm a little scared to take that leap and go down those unmarked paths. 

Help!


Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Life Lessons

I would like to share a list I found on my friend Greg B's blog.
This was written by 90 year old lady, Regina Brett.
It was exactly what I needed to read and maybe it will be for you too.

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over-prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift. 



How do I act so well...

Last night, I went to a casting workshop for this big project the LDS church is working on about the New Testament. 

I expected it to be all spiritual. You know, warm and fuzzy feeling about auditions and acting.

To my pleasant surprise, they shared this awesome clip from the British TV show Extras. A far cry from what I was expecting.

Sir Ian offered those of us in attendance some amazing acting advice.
Hopefully, I can channel my best Ian McKellen in my audition.



Monday, December 13, 2010

Jolly Jingles

I have a friend that emails Christmas songs everyday in December.
Although I'm not the best at listening to them the day he sends them,
I've been listening to past songs while at work today and wanted to share a few of my favorites with you.

They put me in a sentimental mood and maybe they will do the same for you.







This rendition of Silent Night is especially fantastic.

Refreshed


 As this Sunday (technically Monday) is coming to a close,
I am feeling grateful for the company of great friends.
Amazing what a little food, some Martinelli's and a good old fashioned sing-a-long will do for the soul. 

Thanks to Jared for playing host. 
Love you all!


Sunday, December 12, 2010

Baby it's cold outside

Here in Utah, it doesn't really feel like Christmas until you 
trek out among the hoards to Temple Square to see the lights. 

Every year I am initially a little "bah humbug" about going because
1.) it's cold
2.) we went last year
3.) it's cold
4.) there are so many peole
5.) it's cold
But every time I drag myself along, I end up loving it.
It's gorgeous and gets me in the festive mood. 
Here is a sampling of this year's trek.






One of my favorite moments of this year's visit was the guy that
totally crop dusted (aka gassed) and owned up to it
because he felt like he couldn't lie since the temple was right there.

That is one scent I could have done without this season.

Oh, and for your information, it was cold and slightly wet, but still a good time.



Saturday, December 11, 2010

Daniel vs. Harry

So, I am mildly obsessed with Harry Potter.
(stop judging me)

While surfing the web I came across this gem.
It solidified my love of Harry and Daniel Radcliffe.


Year End Letters

This song expresses my sentiments precisely 
about MOST year end letters.

Please to enjoy!

Song of awesomeness 

Oh, and check you mailbox for my Christmas letter......

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Builders without Borders

It's time for me to make a plea for your money, again.

This year after Christmas, I am participating with a charity group 
to build houses for those in need in Mexico.

The group I am going with is Builders without Borders.
They are an outstanding charity group that doesn't take any overhead from donations they receive.
100% of the money donated goes straight to our projects.

This is where you come in.

If you would like to donate you can do so in any amount.
Just $10 provides a family of four food for a WEEK!
Also, donations help pay for the building materials we use for the homes.

You can donation via check or cash.

For checks, make them out to, Builders without Borders and mail them to me at:

Rachel Woodward
c/o Hale Center Theater Orem
225 West 400 North 
Orem, UT 84057

OR

You can find me in person to make a cash donation.

You can also donate clothing, hygiene supplies, cookware, etc. 
The local women share cooking supplies, because they are so limited.
It is such a great cause and will help put you in the Christmas spirit!

Oy vay!

Never go see this movie:



UNLESS

you want a good laugh.

The performances aren't heinous, but boy, the script sure is.
I was hoping it would be one of those

 "It's so bad, it's good" movies.

No such luck. 

Believe me!

Stay far, far away....
*UPDATE*

So maybe this movie was nominated for a Golden Globe in the category of:

BEST PICTURE COMEDY OR MUSICAL

WTF?!?!
How did this happen?
It was totally panned by critics and audiences don't even like it. 
Somebody must be shelling out some serious cash. 
 

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Wordless Wednesday: New Friends


You caught me!


I am a horrible blogger.

There, I've said it.

As part of this admission, I vow to do better.  

Thank you for letting me get that off my chest.