Mormons: An educated discussion

Lately I've taken a little interest in Jef Holm.

Not that kind of interest.  Come on people, this girl is happily married to the finest redhead on the block.

But still.  This Jef dude is a fascinating guy to me.  Why is he so nice?  How did he and that crazy hairdo make it all the way to the finale with Miss Proper Emily?  What is a nice boy from a nice state (MY STATE, BOOYAH!) doing on a show like The Bachelorette?

I am also fascinated with Jef because he is/was Mormon.  I'm Mormon and if you know anything about Mormons it's that Mormons are obsessed with other Mormons.  (Still following here?)  We're especially obsessed with Mormons that are somewhat famous.  Mitt Romney.  Jimmer Ferdette.  Steve Young.  We love these people.  I'm not exactly sure why Mormons love other Mormons so much, but I think it has to do with that we feel the rest of the world doesn't like us.  Therefore when a likeable Mormon hits it big, we cheer him on.  Good job!  You are proving to the rest of the world that us Mormons ain't so bad!

Also,  Mormons tend to feel misunderstood.  You know, like the world doesn't care to understand our beliefs and instead thinks we're a bunch of weirdos procreating like bunnies out here in Utah.  Therefore, when someone super normal is famously Mormon, we feel good about it.  Good job Jimmer, send some understanding out into the world!

Yesterday I was reading up on the internet on Jef Holm.  A lot of curious little Bachelorette fans were wondering why Jef's parents weren't at the hometown dates.  (ANSWER:  Jef's parents are mission presidents in South Carolina.  This means they are overseering anywhere from 80-180 young missionaries in their missionary efforts.  Jef himself served a mission to Minneapolis, Minnesota.  If this has still got you all kinds of confused, go ahead and read up on Mormon missions  or click here to get the full coverage on Mormon beliefs.  ALSO, yours truly served her own little mishky in Argentina; for posts about it go here.)  One person, after hearing that Jef's parents were mission presidents had asked for more information on Mormons.  This was the response I saw on a little Yahoo! Answers forum:

Both of Jef's parents are Mormon which is a religion close to Christianity except some practice "plural marriage" (more than one spouse) and believe in dedicating long amounts of time to church. Going around from different locations to try and persuade others into believing in Jesus Christ, and what they practice. Also, Mormons don't use anything addictive such as coffee, tea, alcohol, tobacco, etc. And they strongly believe in abstinence.

Now what Jef's parents are doing is what's called a "mission" which is dedicating their time traveling to persuade others into believing in their religion and finding God.

I guess you could say stuff like this gets a good old fashioned Mormon like me a bit riled up.  The information is inaccurate, but I think what bothers me the most is the authority with which it is said.  As if this person is the world's greatest source for information on Mormons.  Excuse me, brother, for being rude, but you don't know diddly squat about us Mormons! I believe in education in all forms, and that includes educating yourselves on other people and other religions.  So here we go.  Clear up time.

Both of Jef's parents are Mormon which is a religion close to Christianity. Wrong. Mormons ARE Christian. This is like saying "French are a people similar to Europeans." Nope. French ARE Europeans. Mormons ARE Christian. The full name of the Mormon church is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Now, I have no problem being referred to as Mormons because it's a heck of a lot easier to say, but you should know there is a much longer "official" name.

some practice "plural marriage" (more than one spouse) Wrong. No Mormons practice plural marriage. If they do, they are not of the main Mormon religion. For example, the people on Sister Wives are not Mormons. They are people who broke away from the Mormon church primarily because Mormons were NOT practicing polygamy. There was a period of time where Mormons practiced polygamy but that ended 122 years ago. ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY TWO YEARS AGO! And really, if we can't keep up with something that happened 122 years ago, we ain't got much of a fighting chance, do we?

and believe in dedicating long amounts of time to church. Our church service is three hours long once a week on Sunday. I understand that three hours might be longer than most church services, but I wouldn't exactly say it qualifies as "dedicating long amounts of time to church." Mormons work full time, hold regular jobs during the week, and spend time with family and friends just like everybody else. Church is in no way the main filler of our time. That being said, Mormons DO serve full time missions (Like Jef's parents), DO accept work in the church for which they are not paid (I teach a lesson once a month on Sundays for free as can be) and DO participate in church activities like camps and youth conferences. Joseph Smith, who restored the church, said this: A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation.  So yah, our religion might require a little more than some, but since when was religion a matter of convenience?  

Also, Mormons don't use anything addictive such as coffee, tea, alcohol, tobacco, etc. You got that one right, my friend. We stay away from these bad boys and instead most of us dedicate our lives to Diet Coke. Oops.

And they strongly believe in abstinence. This one was the real kicker for me. We believe in abstinence? So wouldn't that mean all Mormons would eventually die off if no Mormons were procreating? Hmmmm.... doesn't sound like the smartest plan for us sexless Mormons. Please unknown person on the internet, you've got to get your Mormon facts straight, I'm begging you! We totally believe in sex! We believe that sex is intimate and special and emotional and that it is so intimate and special and emotional that it should be done only within marriage. No sleeping around before marriage and no sleeping around after marriage. Got it?

There's a lot more I could say about the church; I could get passionate and go on for hours if you let me, but I think this is a good stopping point. The absolute basics of the Mormon church are this: We believe the church that Christ established when he lived on the Earth was lost. We believe Christ restored it through a prophet, Joseph Smith, and that is the (Mormon) church that we have today. We also believe in kindness, understanding, education, hard work, tolerance, love, etc. For the most part, we are good people trying to live good lives. We respect other people and their beliefs. We ask the same.

Oh, and also, we eat raw dog liver covered in poisonous mushrooms on the third Friday of every month that ends in the letter y.

Did I get ya?

Not everybody loves a shower.

Last night we had a little throw down baby style for my BFF, CrazyA.

That means we gave her a baby shower, just in case you got lost in translation there.

I don't love showers.  The kind of showers where I stand in the bathroom and get clean are alright, I guess, but I don't like bridal and baby showers.  There is a long story behind my unlove for showers (totally loving on the word unlove right now) which includes me being forced to open a bunch of baby gifts at my sister's shower because she was too sick.  Let's just say I wasn't ready for nipple cream and breast pumps, but that's a different story for a different day.

That's why it is was a big step for me to help throw CrazyA's baby shower.  And when I say help I mean I made salsa.  

Janice provided these cupcakes.  I am not that talented.  And I didn't get pictures of the salsa, but there were tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.  Go ahead, close your eyes, and imagine what that salsa must have looked like.

Oh, I did something else for the shower!  I planned the games.  And let me tell you, those games went off without a hitch.  A hitch!  Who wouldn't love pin the baby on the stomach?  I blindfolded those girls, spun em around real good, and sent them on their merry way to find Amy's stomach.  I guess you could say that some were better than others.

Janice, obviously, fell in the not so good category.  Amy's over on the right.  You know, the one with the big belly.  Janice is nowhere near her.  Oh, Janice.  So unwise.  So young.  So naive.

I thought Janice was pretty bad until I saw Hayle work her magic.  No, Hayle.  Amy is not on the ground.  Nice try, though.

Naturally, I was the best at the game.  But come on, are we surprised?  ARE WE SURPRISED?!?

Okay fine.  That was a lie.  Mary won.  There's the truth, are you happy now?

I might not have won the game, but at least I didn't put the baby on HER ELBOW.  I won't say who did it, but they should be ashamed of themselves. Vanessa.

Then it was gift time.  I guessed every gift she got before she opened it.  People, I can spot baby oil when I see it, even if it is covered in tissue paper and ribbons.

I'll give you one guess who the coolest girl in this picture below is.

Yep.

Baby Allie.

Just look at that face.  You can't buy kids cooler than that, people.

Happy almost baby day, Amy!

Oh, and did you hear she's naming the baby BONNIE?!?!? 

Hello, my life is awesome.

I am not a crook. But I did steal a credit card.

Sometimes I wonder how people ever figure this marriage thing out.  Hubs and I have been married a whopping 16 months and sometimes I still feel like I am living with a perfect stranger.  And I am pretty sure he thinks he's living with a lunatic.  Case in point.  This morning he told me he had to go buy more paint supplies before his rehearsal.  I shouted, "I approve of this decision!" and he was off.  Thirty minutes later I got a phone call, "Did you take my credit card out of my wallet?"

Oops.

Innocent until proven guilty?

Fine, you got me!  I DID take the credit card, but that was because I couldn't find mine and I had to buy groceries!  But then how was Hubs to buy paint supplies!?  

Naturally, Hubs is a little frustrated with me.

I'm sorry Hubs!  I am!

But listen what a weird dude Hubs is.  He brushes his teeth with warm water.  WARM WATER!  I only discovered this a few days ago and have been in a state of never ending shock ever since.  First off, how did I get 16 months into the marriage without realizing the water temperature of his teeth-brushing-water?  Secondly.  Why warm?  He tried to explain by saying, "Well, why do you always wash the dishes with warm water?"  To which I replied, "Yah!  Why am I the one always washing the dishes?!?"  

He said I missed the point. 

But seriously, I don't care how many more mouth germs it supposedly kills to brush with warm water, cold water tastes good and warm water tastes bad and end of story.

I can't think of any way to transition to my next topic.  So here you go.  Transitionless. Have you met hordes of amazing women through your blogging experience?  I have.  It's crazy because I get to thinking I have such an interesting, awesome story and then I get to meeting other bloggers and I realize everyone's got their story.  I've got such a special and unique group of girls this month sponsoring Life of Bon.  Their stories range from helping orphans to recovering from divorce to learning to be fashionistas.  I'm so grateful to these incredible women and to have met them.  Now, I think it's time you do the same!  

And so, without further ado, I introduce to you...

Elise

Hey there fellow Life of Bon readers! My name is Elise and I blog over and Forever Changed. I’m a pretty ordinary girl, I have an amazing family, a best friend, a sweet dog, I run for fun (and yes, I rhymed on purpose), chocolate chip cookies are my weakness, I love Christmas, and I have a bucket list that I take pretty seriously. Despite all this ordinariness I have an extraordinary purpose perfectly designed by God let has led me to move to Rwanda and work in an orphanage with over 500 children. Forever Changed is my way of documenting this crazy journey that is my life. If you are interested in joining me on this adventure head on over to my blog, I would love to have you! 

Blog/Twitter/Instagram

Jenn

Hello lovely Life of Bon readers! My name is Jenn and I blog over at Girl Defying Gravity where I post about some of my favorite trends, fitness,  my job on an ambulance and random life adventures! I'm super excited to be doing my first ever sponsorship this month, and what better place to start than one of my absolute favorite, makes-me-smile-every-day blogs?? Anyhoo, please come on over and say hi--I'd love to get to know you!

Blog/ Pinterest

Ashley

Hellooooo! I’m Ashley, an Arizona girl with a passion for living with umph and pizazz.  I la-la-la-love to blog about life, women that inspire me, movies, the pup, the boyfriend,  fashion and, well, pretty much anything else that crosses my mind.  I’m a twenty something that seems to have been going through a quarter-life crisis for like 6 years.  I decided, to stop saying “what if” and live my life with “joie de vivre”. Come on over for a visit.  I just love the company!

Blog/ Twitter/ Facebook/ Instagram/ Pinterest

Stephanie and Laura

We are Stephanie and Laura, two friends who write a new beauty and style blog. You will find a variety of reviews, tutorials, and an assortment of the other things we enjoy in life most! We are loving the opportunity to meet new friends and interact with the bloggers we love. Come over and get to know us!

Blog/Twitter/ Instagram: @abrunetteduet

and...

Jeanine

Hi folks! My name is Jeanine and I'd love for you to stop by my little place in the blogosphere.

There you will find random Costume Drama treasures sprinkled in with a hefty dose of what it means to me to be a single girl trying to live a meaningful life for God whilst keeping (at least) one eye open for Mr Right :) I'm a graphic designer, drink excessive amounts of hot tea, overindulge myself with a ton of reading, fantasize about delicious desserts and look for adventures around every mundane corner. And always look forward to meeting new friends--so do stop by!

Blog/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Pinterest

Now go give them some love!

Everything you ever wanted to know about blog sponsorship, Oh my!

This week I was reading a blog post about the ins and outs of blogging.  (By the way isn't blogging about blogging weird?  It's like dreaming about dreaming or reading about reading.  TOTALLY WACK!)  In the post, the blogger said, "I have paid to sponsor... and I wouldn't recommend doing it again. I received a small handful of clicks and even less followers from her. As a modern-day consumer, you are trained to ignore ads. Unless you can guest post for them, I would never advise paying to sponsor someone's blog ever again."  I was surprised when I read this.  I have seen my own blog grow so much faster since I have started sponsoring other blogs, and I have generally had very positive experiences with it.  I guess that's why it shocked me that someone else, a blogger that I like and trust, seemed so against it.

Naturally, I figured I would share what I know about sponsorship, what I look for in a sponsor, and how I know if a sponsorship has been effective for me.  World, I know you are all in desperate want of my sponsorhip expertise, therefore, wait no longer, I shall give it to you!

What I look for in a blog I sponsor:
1. The style of the blog must match my blog style. I have tried sponsoring DIY blogs or recipe blogs and it is always completely ineffective.  Crafty people usually don't care too much about my ramblings about ungrateful teenagers and mediocre firework shows.  They want a craft blog.  So while they might click on my blog once, they're certainly not going to stay.  Find a blogger who is similar in style to you and you'll be more effective.

2.  People I sponsor need to be organized.  If I'm going to give you money, then HELLO, you need to respond to my emails. (Blog pet peeve:  not responding to emails in a timely manner, especially when I have asked a specific question.  I don't expect an hour response time, but within a few days, please!)  It is also very important to me that I know what day the sponsorship begins, when it ends, and when my guest post will go up.  Some of us like to plan our posts on our blog around the guest post on the blogs we sponsor, so I think it's the least someone can do to tell their sponsor when the post is going up.

3.  Don't sponsor with just a button. Although I use them, I am opposed to buttons.  To start with, I don't understand them.  How is that effective advertising?!?  Almost every single button has got a picture of her kissing her husband (mine included!) with some dumb caption like "Life's a beach!".  I have no idea based on that button if I am going to like the personality or writing style of that blogger.  Here's an idea!  How about buttons that are at least somewhat informative?  WHO ARE THE BLOGGER GODS THAT DECIDED WE ALL MUST USE BUTTONS?  Because of my dis-affinity for buttons, (made that word up myself, two points for Bon!) I never sponsor a blog if all that is included is showcasing my button.  I invariably pay the extra for an indiviual guest post.  In my experience this has gone far and beyond the ability of a button to attract viewers.  If a blogger won't let me post on her blog, forget it honey, you ain't getting my money.

4.  Give me a shout out, blogger!   I really couldn't care less if a sponsor mentions me on twitter.  How many people actually see the #FF mentions and go follow their twitters?  Zero to one.  What I do care about is that she gives me a good introduction on her blog. I have sponsored blogs that didn't say anything about my guest post- it was just up.  I have also sponsored blogs where they talk me up a bit, you know, upsell me.  The best blog I ever sponsored was Living in Yellow. (Complete bang for your buck- I received more followers, more hits that day, and more kind, genuine comments than I have from any other sponsorship.)  Erin introduced me with this:  "I think I now realize why I am happy. It’s gotta be because of this girl.  Yes, the one below. Bonnie is one of my beautiful sponsors for March and I am so excited to bless you with her presence. This guest post is hilarious. I would not lie my friends.  See for yourself."  Isn't that amazing?  The percentage of people who are going to read my post went up from 25% to 60% just because Erin gave me a little shout out before my post.

5. A sponsor should say thank you.  A lot.  Hey, we're giving you money aren't we?  Say thank you, damnit!

What I do when I sponsor a blog:

While I definitely want to have a good experience sponsoring a blog, I understand that only half of that comes from the owner of the blog.  The other half comes from me.  If I really want to attract traffic to my blog, I have to do more than slap a post on a bigger, more popular blog.  I have to make the readers WANT to visit my blog.  Here's a few tricks I've used that have worked well for me:

1.  I send my button/guest post/ info when the sponsor asks for it.  Most sponsors are going to give some kind of deadline.  I do everything possible to get all my stuff in my that deadline.  I understand that if I am not cooperative than I'm not going to get any kind of special treatment.  I'll probably get posted on a random holiday/Sunday when no one looks at blogs.  If you want a sponsor to treat you right and take care of you, you gotta play by their rules.

2.  I like to make my guest posts a little weird.  Just a little.  Maybe weird isn't the best word.... Different?  There are millions and millions of blogs out there and I figured there has to be something a little bit quirky or eccentric about mine to get people to read it.  Something that stands out just a little bit from the run of the mill blogs.  I can't tell you how many blog introductions that I've read that go like this, "I'm Bonnie, a twenty something year old who loves her husband, loves to blog, and loves everything DIY."  Nobody is going to click on that because there is absolutely nothing unique about that blogger.  Don't be afraid to be "too different."  I would rather have someone strongly dislike my blog than feel completely apathetic toward it.

3.  Start simple.  I don't usually pay more than $10-20 for a sponsorship.  I'm still small and I haven't made a ton of money off of my blog so paying $50-100 for sponsorship just feels risky to me.  Once I paid $35 for a guest post and it was totally ineffective.  That's the last time I blow that much money on a guest post for awhile.   As far as numbers go, I usually try to sponsor a blog that has around 1000 followers to make sure it is worth the hassle of me writing a guest post.  I have, however, sponsored smaller blogs and had just as much success as the blogs with 1000+ followers

4.  Don't always pay to sponsor.  One of my favorite things to do is find a blog similar in style and size and ask the owner to swap guest post with me.  If the owner doesn't want to, it's no big deal, but there's absolutely nothing to lose.  Sometimes guest post swaps have even more effective for me than a paid sponsorship.  It's win/win- both bloggers get more traffic and the readers of both blogs get exposed to other blogs that they are apt to enjoy.

So what do you think?  Have you sponsored blogs before?  Would you ever or are you strongly opposed to it?  What is your spending limit when sponsoring?  Also, I have been struggling finding blogs to sponsor, so hook me up and tell me which ones you have sponsored and loved.  (You might even want to warn me of those you have you sponsored and unloved... but be gentle with your criticism!)

Independence and such

First off, a disclaimer. I know this post is way late. But listen. I'm busy. This is the best I could do so stop yer whining!

This Fourth of July I...

- Tried my hand at being a fashion blogger.  Yet again.  I wore red pants and a white shirt and a blue belt.  Pretty creative of me, huh?  I wore all three colors of the flag!!! Pretty sure no one has ever had THAT idea before!  Aren't I clever one?

-Ate really yummy food like avocado burgers and potato salad, Yummmmmm.  Unfortunately I haven't yet caught on to the taking pictures of your food thing.  It just feels weird.  Plus, I'm pretty sure you all know what burger looks like.  Right?  RIGHT?!?

- Played Bocce with Hubs and his mom while Hubs dad chowed down on an ice cream bar and critiqued us from the sidelines.  What better way to celebrate America's independence than with a weird lawn game first played by the Ancient Romans?

-Became fully convinced that there is a demon living inside my in-laws' dog, Norman.  Of course, I've believed that all along, but the holiday confirmed it.

-Practiced jumping.  I'm hoping for the Olympics.  I'll do my best to keep you all updated but I can't make any guarantees.  You know how busy Olympians are...

- Climbed up on the roof with Hubs to watch the Kaysville city fireworks.  Supposedly the fireworks were choreographed to music.  Well, it wasn't no water show at the Bellagio, I can tell you that much.  The music selection was as follows:  Justin Beiber Eeny Meeny Moe Lover, Katy Perry  Fireworks, (Hubs comment:  I can just see the city council men planning this firework show:  "I got it!  There's this song called Fireworks that's popular nowdays!  So while we are blasting the fireworks we should play the song Fireworks.  What's more appropriate than that?!") Neil Diamond Coming to America, and then a slew of other American songs like My Country tis of Thee and God Bless America.  It ended with the orchestral version of Pirates of The Carribbean.  Also, the speakers blew out mid program so the music was barely audible.

But we ain't complaining round these parts!  What's a good small city firework show without a completely random song selection and blown out speakers anyway?!?

And the winner of the Shabby Apple giveaway goes to Sarah B who said:  "Happy Happy Birthday to YOU!!! I am following you on FB and I would love the Razia shoes in Grass Green :)"  Girlfriend, looks like those Razia shoes in Grass Green are all yours!  Email me at lifeofbon@gmail.com with your mailing address and we'll get you HOOKED UP!

Thanks for all who participated and I understand your disappointment and not winning.  I wanted to win too, you know. Disappointment all around.

Happy week!

There is a demon living inside my computer

People.  My computer is possessed tonight.

There is a demon living inside of it.

It posted a post that I was not finished working on when I did not want it to be posted.

THEN.  When I had finished the post and was ready to be done with the computer for the day I hit the magic "Publish Post" point.  At which point the post was erased.  Naturally, I want to get off of this thing as soon as possible.

But I do feel like I need to tell you one thing.  Today Hubs and I saw The Amazing Spiderman.  Boy, they weren't kidding around with that title- the movie really was amazing!  The most amazing of it all was the hunk of burning love that they found to play Spiderman- Andrew Garfield, Oh, La, La, La!

On the way home from the movie I was thinking about that cute little smile of Spiderman's and at the same time feeling rather guilty for my obvious disloyalty to Hubs.  It was at that point that Hubs interrupted my thoughts with, "I'm sorry, Bon, but I gotta say it.  I think I have a man crush on Andrew Garfield."

Well Hubs, join the party!  And now you see why Hubs and I were meant for each other- I mean, come on!  We've got the same celebrity crushes! Now, if only I could get him to hop on the Jef Holm bandwagon!
Now, to bigger and better things.  Today I have a special treat for you all and that treat comes in the form of Shelby!  She's sweet, she's spicy, she's sexy and she even had her dress fall off on stage.  What's not to like about this gal?!?  Take it away, Shellmeister!  (You don't mind if I call you Shellmeister, do you?!?)

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Hi Friends! I am Shelby and I blog over at Musings of a Newlywed where I document my everyday adventures with my sweet husband, Thane. I am so excited to be sponsoring Bonnie this month! I love reading her blog and enjoy the spunky sense of humor that she shares with us!

I blog because I love the opportunity it gives us to write down the special moments that we have in our lives. Life, obviously, is a huge experience, but everyone has the things that really stick out. Some of those moments may be filled with grandeur like a wedding day or a vacation. Some of those moments may be moments of accomplishment- finishing a marathon or mastering a new skill. And some of those moments are just plain simple, but oh so memorable. Like perfecting a recipe, dancing in the living room, or reading a story to a child. Blogging is a wonderful opportunity to share these amazing things.

I truly believe all of life is beautiful- the hard moments, the good moments, and all the stuff in the middle. It’s all good and valuable in it’s own way. And so whether you blog about your cooking moments, your relationship moments, your traveling moments, or even your grieving moments… The point is, you are sharing a gift with the world. You are sharing something precious that has the capacity to influence others. And I just think that is really cool!

So, I thought I’d share a moment with you from my own life. Because laughing is my favorite recreational activity, I decided this moment had to be a funny one!

For your reading entertainment, here is the tale of my most embarrassing moment.

As a senior in high school I was cast as Belle in the musical rendition of Beauty and the Beast. My mom made *the gown*. Ya know, the big, infamous, gold one? Well, my mom is kind of the world’s best procrastinator and sewed my dress the night before dress rehearsal. Well, when I put it on and was ready to get on stage guess what? It was too big! I went out on stage just as the music for “Tale as Old as Time” began. It was my big, shining moment!

As the beast and I began to dance my dress began to slip. Just as the beast twirled me out that dress just kept on slipping right down to my waste. And the whole world (or so it felt) and an auditorium of cameras saw it. And my bra.

And now forevermore whenever my former 80 cast members decide to show their posterity the video of when they were in Beauty and the Beast, their descendants will also be blessed with visions of me in my lingerie. The end. 

You’ll notice in the image of the dress, the final alterations included straps to help keep it up!

So, fellow bloggers, I hope you’ll continue to write your moments down to share! You’ll never know who will find them entertaining, inspiring, or endearing.

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I told you she was spicy, didn't I?!?  Now go hop on over to her blog and say hi!  Meanwhile, Hubs and I will be fantasizing about Spiderman. 

Not weird at all.

Summer Reads

Well friends, in case you've been under a rock for the best few months, I will let you know that summer is now in full swing.  In fact, it's already a third of the way done!  And I have read a total of one book.

Yep.  Just one.

I feel like an idiot.  I have recommitted myself to reading up a storm these remaining two months of summer- both books that I like to read, and books that I need to study so that I can teach those bratty ingrates next year. (Oh, but they're not really bratty ingrates!  Students, if you're reading this, I miss you!  I really do!) Currently I am reading 1984.  I'm thinking about teaching it to my seniors next year, but can't decide if it moves fast enough to hold their attention.  I also just started Janet Evanovich's One for the Money.  It seems like an easy, fun summer read, and well, I'm always about fun and easy.

I hope you are all reading lots of quality literature this summer... but... in case you are in a total reading rut, I thought I might help you out a bit with some of my favorites.  Now, I know we all don't like the same types of books, so I've chosen my favorites from several different genres to help you out.  Wow, I really am a saint, aren't I?

Favorite History book: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

Why you should read it:  The book is based on the true story of Olympian Louie Zamperini as he becomes a prisoner of war during WWII.  You'd think because it's a history book it would be a little on the boring, slow side, but it's not at all.  Hillenbrand tells the story with an astounding focus on detail, but not to the point where it bogs the reader down. The strength and tenacity of this Zamperini is amazing. His plane goes down and he is on a life boat with two other men for forty some odd days before they wash up on shore in Japan and become POWs there. I never wanted to put this book down and that's saying something because I am on a kick where I am totally sick of WWII novels.  Above all, the book shows the power of the human spirit to find goodness, even amongst the most evil of circumstances.  One of my top ten books of all time. Also, you get to learn lots of cool stuff like if a shark comes to attack you, punch him in the nose!

Favorite memoir: Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

Why you should read it:  McCourt did not set out to be a writer- he earned his living teaching, actually.  It wasn't until he was 66 that he actually published this memoir of his childhood (and then he won the Pulitzer Prize for it!)  Something about him publishing this at an older age shows how important it was to him and how much he felt like he needed to share it with the world.  Because of that, there is an incredible passion behind the book.  McCourt grew up in Ireland with a hard working mother and a mostly drunk father.  Although the memoir is heavy at times as he experiences poverty, death of loved ones, and constant disappointments, McCourt tells the story with humor and light heartedness.  That might be why I like the book so much- everyone deals with sorrow and disappointment- but I admire the way McCourt handles it all with humor and without feeling too sorry for himself.  The book is written in an interesting manner- it is in present tense and uses short sentences, short paragraphs, and no quotations for dialogue.  Although this kind of stuff normally drives me nuts, I feel like it really works for a memoir and it seems to speed the reading along.

Honorable Mention Memoir:  Heaven is Here by Stephanie Nielsen.  

For a full review go here.  It's not the best written book by any means, but it just leaves you feeling uplifted and so much more grateful for everything in your life.

Favorite children's book/Young Adult:  Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

Why you should read it:  I am ashamed of how little I actually remember about this book.  I read it six or seven years ago and can recall more than anything, being completely in love.  It's the story of a broken, somewhat dysfunctional family, and how they find love and hope out of it all.  It's got a crazy twist at the end- I finished the book on a plane ride to New Mexico and bawled through the last few pages.  I remember the men next to me saying, "Hey, you alright, sweetheart?  It's just a book!"  The characters are real and fun and easy to get attached to.  Also, it's a children's book, so it reads like candy.  You could finish it off in a day or two easily. (And apparently it's on sale now for $2.99 so you can't argue with that!)

Favorite Mystery/Thriller:  In Cold Blood by Truman Capote

Why you should read it:  This is the true account of the senseless 1959 murder of a family in a small town in Kansas.  There is no motive to the killings, no clues, no suspects.  The book chronicles the town's reaction, as well as the journey of the two men who killed the family.  When Capote wrote this book, he spent hours and hours interviewing the two killers, who at that point were on death row.  As you read it, watch the way that Capote portrays the killers, Dick and Perry; he is hateful toward Dick, while almost sympathetic and loving toward Perry.  Capote was homosexual and there are lots of theories that he actually fell in love with Perry as he interviewed him for the book.  The book is fascinating because it is all true, but also fascinating because of Capote's portrayal of it.  It's well written with close attention to detail, and once you get into it, it's one of those that you don't put down.    

Favorite Foreign Book: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Why you should read it:  The book follows the lives of two Afghan women: Miriam and Laila.  They bother suffer immensely, oftentimes due to the men in their live and their requirement to be subservient and obedient.  Both women are strong willed and lovable.  The book has some exquisite imagery and there are sections that are particularly hard to read just because the imagery is so intense.  In one scene one of the women is forced to eat rocks by her husband, in another the woman must give birth via C section without any anesthetics.  These are the images of the book that still haunt me.  Although many would say the book is too sad or heavy, I strongly believe there is value in reading about these kinds of experiences.  Above all the book shows the ability to endure the unendurable and the strength of the female human spirit.

Honorable mention Foreign book:  Hosseini also wrote The Kite Runner which is every bit the book that Thousand Splendid Suns is.  I think I liked Thousand better the protagonists are female and such strong, admirable women, but Kite Runner is another huge favorite.

Whew.  Who knew it took so much energy to write about books?  Now, I'm off to the pool to relax and knock out some of my summer reading.  I hope you'll do the same.  And don't let me hear you complaining that you haven't go anything to read, you hear?!?


For more book reviews check out my top five favorite books ever, and my least five favorite books ever!

I HOPE YOU HAVE A MISERABLE FOURTH

Oh... sorry about that title.

I don't know what got over me.

What I mean to say is....


HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

This was us last year, chillaxing on the roof, watching fireworks, and loving life.

Ah, that Hubs!  Always making me laugh!

And in case you were wondering what I wore in Argentina on the Fourth of July, here it is, folks!  It doesn't get much cuter than this, does it?  Which makes me wonder, why don't I do a fashion blog?!?

I am grateful to live in America because of:

- Freedom of Religion
- Freedom of Speech
- Freedom to vote in my president
- Public education- to be a student of it and then a teacher of it
- Honest policeman, judges, and juries (for the most part)
and of course...
- Freedom to have a bloggy blog about whatever I want!

I should be getting paid millions for this idea

I get this question a lot:
"Do you ever run out things to talk about on your blog?"

My answer is always:

"Nope."

You see people, I am a woman of many words.  I'd talk your ear off if you let me.  Literally, that ear would just pop right off the side of your head.  It really doesn't matter what the subject is either; I like to talk about just about everything.  That's why starting a blog made perfect sense- a place to just talk to my heart's content.  I've been going strong for 10 months now- five to six times a week- posting, rambling, talking, no problemo.

But then.  Today.  On July 2, 2012.  The unthinkable has happened.

I have nothing to say.

It's just that it's been a completely average, quiet day.  Some lunch was eaten, some apartments were painted, and a movie was watched (Moonrise Kingdom, go see it!).   But nothing happened that was so important that I felt the pressing urge to talk about it RIGHT NOW.

Well...

I guess I could talk about my new reality TV idea.

Also, while we're on the subejct of reality TV, I need some of you to help me out here.  Hubs says that Reality TV is scripted!  Scripted!  Can you believe the nerve of the kid?  He says none of it's real!  To think that he would just destroy my world like that!

I know for a fact that Reality TV is not scripted at all!
Well... I don't think it's scripted at all!
Well... I don't think it's scripted too much.
Well... I hope it's not scripted too much.
Please please please please say reality TV is not scripted!   I swear if it is, all the walls of my world will come crashing down!

Wow, we got a little off track there, didn't we?  Shame on you, reader, for getting me so off track!  Fast forward back to where we were at... my new reality TV show idea.  You see, my two favorite reality TV shows are: 1) Bachelor/Bachelorette and 2) Keeping up with the Kardashians. 

(*** I am not alone in my family when it comes to love for The Bachelorette.  My brother just admitted to being a "closet Bachelorette watcher".  He's been watching it secretly for weeks and his wife just found out.  If that's not awesome, I don't know what is!***)

And we're back on track!  Today I was a-roll, rolling that paint roller and in a state of complete mental comotose when all of a sudden an idea popped into my head. Out of nowhere.  Pop.

What if.... What if... yes this idea was brilliant.

WHAT IF WE COMBINED KARDASHIANS WITH BACHELORETTE?

+

=

Reality TV Perfection?

Here's how it all breaks down...

WHAT IF KIM K WAS THE NEXT BACHELORETTE?

We all know she needs a new beau after that whole Kris Humphries fiasco. (Here was my reaction the day they filed for divorce)

AND

WHAT IF SCOTT DISICK WAS THE HOST?

Except for Scott would be allowed to be much more involved than Chris Harrison currently is.  Because let's face it, we all know that Scott Disick is the best part of The Kardashians.

The question is... could Jef Holm be a contestant again so that he could steal Kim's heart and convert her to Mormonism?  Because I think we all know that Jef is the best thing that every happened to The Bachelorette.

What do you think, folks?  Is it time for me to pitch this idea to the Reality TV masterminds?

Real

My mamas (both my mom and Hubs' mom chipped in- ain't I lucky?) gave me a sweet new camera for my birthday.  It's none of those thousand dollar DSLRs or whatever they're called, but still, this bad boy can point and shoot with the best of them.
Point.
Shoot.
Point.
Shoot.
Good job, new camera.

The classic ugly face in car shot.  Also, my hair is now peach.

The classic "Bonnie, if you don't get that camera out of my face while I'm driving, I'm going to crash this car" shot.

The classic, "Oh, this is actually going to go somewhere where a lot of people will see it?  Okay, fine, I'll smile," shot.

The classic road construction overlooking the sunset shot.

Not too bad for a point and shoot, eh?

I had an interesting Sunday today.  You know those days where you stop in your tracks and look at your life and suddenly you're very scared and feel completely inadequate and one hundred percent insecure?  I guess it was one of those.  Sometimes I feel like I take little steps forward in my life only to take a giant leap backward.

It was a reflective day, full of heightened emotions and contemplative minutes.  After an afternoon inside, I needed out of our 525 square apartment.  I needed to clear my head.  To reset.  I took 1984 by George Orwell with me, because really, nothing resets me like a good distopian novel, you know how it goes.

I went to a park that I thought would be completely secluded.  Where I could read and reflect and ponder.  The park was jammed full of people.  And I mean jammed.  I sat in my car for a minute deciding if I was going to join in on the mayhem, or if I should seek a different park.  And then I spied, sitting under a tree, my sister.  Her kids were nearby- riding on bikes, crawling over rocks, and splashing in the little brooke.

So I got out of the car, and went over to say hello to my sister.  We both have got a bit of an attention problem, so the conversation jumped quickly from a cruise to the best doctors in the city to her daughter's broken arm until we finally landed on blogging.  My sister dabbled in blogging a little bit, but decided to stop. 
"It's just... I feel like it's not real.  Like you only hear the good things about people's lives.  And you see these beautiful outfits, and their perfect kids... and you leave the blog not feeling uplifted at all. 
You leave feeling like you're not adequate."

I had to agree with my sister.  Of all the the things I struggle with most in blogging, this one tops the list.  The ability to tell the truth.  To be completely honest and real.  And to not feel inadequate when I read blogs of people who are neither honest nor real.  Blogging is a funny thing.  Just the mere fact that you are writing about your life on such a public venue schews the truthfulness of it all  Is anybody 100% honest about their lives?  How come no one writes about their marital spats?  Or their insecurities and doubts?  Or their jealousies?  I understand that blogging is supposed to be uplifting, but is only writing about the "perfection" in our life really uplifting others?

I left my encounter with my sister feeling everything I want to feel when I leave a blog- like I had been uplifted, like I had just caught up with an old friend, like everything was going to be okay.
The day overall left me with a lot of goals and hopes for the future.  Things I want to do better in the future.  I want to:

-Be more real.
-Be less selfish
-Be more grateful
-Bite my tongue and think before I say something
-Be more patient
-Be friendlier
-Be closer to family
-Have more faith
-Doubt less
-Trust more
-Stress less
-Laugh more
-Serve more
-Feel the spirit more
-Be more sincere in my prayers
-Reflect more

I suppose I'll start here on this blog with my goal to be more grateful.  Thank you for reading this blog of mine.  Thanks for making me feel important and thank you for leaving sweet comments. I guess it means alot to old Bon Bon.
(Don't forget to enter the Shabby Apple giveaway here!)