Tarali's Tidbits

European Vacation - Day 9

2011-10-20T23:25:00.001-07:00

From city to country...Rome to Florence to Sienna.... crammed, stinky metro cars to fresh, quiet country air...

Duomo in Sienna, Italy

Casa del Cavallo, Sienna, Italy

Things run just a little slower here!

Florence has a different feel than Rome, smaller, homier... a town of tradition... shops passed from generation to generation... the tradition of art passed from generation to generation. It is an open air museum...Statues, architecture,

Duomo, Sienna, Italy

Sienna, Italy

Sienna is peaceful, narrow alleyways lined with colorful stucco and contrasting shutters turn and curve into an open piazza, surrounded by shops, gelatorias, and restaurants...groves of olive trees, vineyards...

Ponte alla Carraia Bridge

Florence, Italy

Warning:

contains some explicit exposure

For mature audience only

The David by Michaelangelo, Piazza della Signoria

Florence, Italy

Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy

Rape of Sabine Women, Piazza della Signoria,

Florence, Italy

European Vacation - Day 8

2011-10-18T14:23:00.006-07:00

After a long day of exploring and looking at old ruins.. sometimes its nice to go back to a place that is familiar... a gathering place where you can just rest and sit awhile... where time doesn’t matter.... where you can just relax!

Arch of Constantine, Rome, Italy

Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Olive Tree, Rome Italy

Gladiator, Rome, Italy

Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy

Palatino, Rome, Italy

Republica, Rome, Italy

Near Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Street near Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Love of God

2011-10-17T13:08:00.001-07:00

The Pieta, Vatican City, Italy

I have never been so touched by a work of art, as I was when I turned the corner and saw the Pieta, or when I looked up and saw the Creation of Man on the Sistine Chapel. Was it because my whole life I have heard about Michelangelo and I was seeing his work for the first time? Or was it what this sculpture and fresco represented? A mother, holding her son after he had just suffered and died for all mankind... the pain and anguish, the suffering, yet the hope and peace,the life! Or the touch between a loving Heavenly Father and His child. Whose touch, when I reach out, I can feel daily.

The Creation, Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, Italy

European Vacation - Day 7

2011-10-17T11:37:00.004-07:00

God created the world and man in 6 DAYS...and found that it is was well.

Vatican City, Italy

We have been told that, "The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. No matter our talents, education, backgrounds, or abilities, we each have an inherent wish to create something that did not exist before."

Pres. Uchtdorf

Vatican City, Italy

See... that's right!

... creating something out of nothing.

Vatican City, Italy

As I walked today through St.Peters Basilica and the Sistine chapel...creation was everywhere. Mans need to create...statues, mosaics, frescoes, tapestries,

Vatican City, Italy

the buildings weren’t buildings... they themselves were art!

Vatican City, Italy

Then outside as I walked, more creation... piazzas surrounded by beautiful columnades, ornately carved fountains, mounds of swirling gelato, flower arrangements, even down to the lasagna and bruschetta.

Gelato

Vatican City, Italy

Are my photos a creation... or are they capturing someone else’s creation?

Rome, Italy

Vatican City, Italy

Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy

Can you find me?

Rome, Italy

I’d like to think that they are a tool of creation, so that others might see things in a different way. Having the camera in my hand, helps me see differently... observing this art has helped me see things differently....

Trevvi Fountain, Rome, Italy

One thing I know for sure....Seeing all of these paintings of larger, Renaissance ladies , I would have been HOT in the Renaissance... I might have even been a model!

European Vacation - Day 6

2011-10-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry...

No post today!

It is the Sabbath,

And I need a day of rest!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter - day Saints

Geneva Switzerland Mission Home

President and Sister Murdock

Chambesy, Switzerland

European Vacation - Day 5

2011-10-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

Life is about perspective...

How do I see things from where I am?

Nyon, Switzerland - Lac Leman

Nyon, Switzerland

Do I look at things as if they are ordinary?

Mundane?

Nyon, Switzerland

Yvoire, France

Or, do I let myself walk around the corner

and see the breathtaking beauty that surrounds me?

Vibrance!

Yvoire, France

Nyon, Switzerland

For that is what life wants to show us.

We just have to be willing spectators!

Nyon, Switzerland

European Vacation - Day 4

2011-10-14T09:28:00.001-07:00

Sometimes in life....

a picture really is worth a 1000 words!

Enjoy the feast...

Overlook for Mt. Blanc - 12680 ft

Chamonix, Mt. Blanc, France

Annecy, France

Chocolatiere, Annecy, France

Annecy, France

Thank you President and Sister Murdock for the remarkable day!!!!

European Vacation - Day 3

2011-10-13T15:08:00.000-07:00

View from Staubbach Hotel, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Life is about the ups and downs...

the ebb and flow..

Grindalwald, Switzerland

When life changes your plans and the clouds come in and cover your destination,

Weissnenbach, Switzerland

then just drive down the mountain and explore another canyon!

Weissenbach, Switzerland

Interlachen, Switzerland

We must have the opposition in all things,

so we truly get a feeling of what life is all about!

Co du Pillon, Switzerland

Zeissiman, Switzerland

Little Mens

2011-10-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

How do you explain what a Garden Gnome is, to a shop owner who speaks very little english?

A dwarf?

An elf?

OH... Little Mens!!!!!

and now for my favorite!!!!!!!

That's Right!!!!!

European Vacation - Day 2

2011-10-12T13:35:00.014-07:00

Gargoyles are said to scare off and protect from any evil or harmful spirits. A mans reminder that evil is abound and that even the most loyal are subject to temptation.

Interlachen, Switzerland

I have realized that there are times when time is a temptation for me.

Times when time takes over and rules for awhile...

When Time becomes My Time.

When Time becomes Not Enough Time.

When Time becomes Too Much Time.

Interlachen, Switzerland

But what does my time know of the time that is needed to create a simple flower?

Trummelbachfalle Garden, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Or a majestic waterfall?

Staubbach Falls, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Does my time remind me of the simple things?

Those things eternal?

Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland

Or am I swept away with change?

Interlachen, Switzerland

All I know, is that when I dedicate my time to the Lord...

Interlachen, Switzerland

Great and beautiful things happen!

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Even some of Gods greatest creations are still using His time...

Trummelbachfalle,Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Trummelbachfalle, Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

European Vacation - Day 1

2011-10-11T12:56:00.001-07:00

With a Father's Blessing of safety, health, and fulfilled expectations... I am traveling through Switzerland,France and Italy, anticipating what this trip will teach me. I am experienced enough in traveling to know that another piece of me will be discovered...

Nyon, Switzerland

Some roads need to be explored...

it is the road that leads from nowhere to nowhere that always ends up best. The journey is where the discovery happens, not the destination.

Grand rue, Switzerland

Like quiche and eclairs!!!

Bern Switzerland Temple, Zullikofen, Switzerland

But you know...

Sometimes the destination can teach you a lot as well!

SUNSET ALERT!!! SUNSET ALERT!!!!

2010-09-28T17:28:00.001-07:00

Determine HOW Great at 38

2010-09-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

"Life gives to all the choice. You can satisfy yourself with mediocrity if you wish. You can be common, ordinary, dull, colorless; or you can channel your life so that it will be clean, vibrant, progressive, useful, colorful, rich. You can soil your record, defile your soul, trample underfoot virtue, honor, and goodness, and thus forfeit an exaltation in the kingdom of God. Or you can be righteous, commanding the respect and admiration of your associates in all walks of life, and enjoying the love of the Lord. Your destiny is in your hands and your all-important decisions are your own to make."
~Spencer W. Kimball

I choose VIBRANCE!

The Shell

2010-08-10T18:37:00.004-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself in Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica. I was awed by the beauty of the country, but specifically by the beach I was on. It was a rather small cove surrounded by lush trees. One tip of the cove was black volcanic rock spotted with urchined native plants growing from every crevice. The other, a tree infested outcropping, so green it made your eyes hurt. Out along the horizon, four separate islands of varying size, stood as sentinels, appreciating the focus every eye gave them as one looked out on the horizon. The beach was definitely the cleanest beach I had ever seen, there wasn’t any seaweed or garbage, only an occasional coconut or log.

Daily I walked from tip to tip, with soft sand at the bottom of my feet and the cool surf occasionally washing up around my ankles. As an avid shell seeker, there was slight disappointment, as there were no shells to seek, hence there was very little reason to look down, except to see the myriad of footprints half washed away. So my thoughts would look forward and outward to the beautiful sea or to the tip of the cove, or behind me to see how far I had come. Occasionally I would look immediately down at my feet, or maybe a couple of steps away, but slowly I would find that again I would be focusing ahead, to my beautiful distant future.

One evening while walking back from exploring the far tip of the cove, my friends and I started separating, one stopping to take off her shoe, another stopping to take a photograph. I soon found myself behind the others, and my mind immediately looked up towards the sun spotted tip where I was heading. I then looked a little ways ahead of me and watched the pattern of my friends footprints as they danced along the shore, and then for one short moment, I looked immediately at my feet. And there it lay right at the inside of my foot, a beautiful brown and cream spiraled shell. The kind that you can only find in souvenir shops. I realized that if I hadn’t paid attention to my immediate present, A rare treasure might have been lost.

As we live life, there are times when we need to look out at our own beautiful future, planning and walking towards it, focusing on it and wondering about it, for we do need to know where we are going, and there are other times that we should look back at our experiences and see the shaping of who we are, evaluating each footprint and remembering how it brought us to our current self. Yet it is when we live the immediate present, we find the treasure of opportunity that is waiting for us, right at our feet.

The Nursery

2010-04-25T18:47:00.003-07:00

Creating is a beautiful thing... especially if it involves the creation of new life to inhabit the earth. So many of you, on waiting on the arrival of your new little one, fix up the nursery. New paint, new crib...

Since I am in the station of life that I am in... and wanting to participate in some type of creating new life, I pulled together my own type of nursery..... new grow lights and new shelves...

Check out these babies! All 500 of them!

Face Off!

2010-03-21T19:34:00.003-07:00

It was a face off... me against him.

I had just turned the corner when I saw him... staring off to the left.

I approached him going 20 miles an hour...

no flinch...

I slowed to 15 mph...

no stir...

he was clearly in the zone.

As I got within 10 feet of him... I had to do it!

I swirved!

I immediately looked back in the rear view mirror...

there he stood...

statuesque...

with glory, I am sure, blazing in his eyes.

It was then I had the realization....

I just played chicken with a duck!

Oh Flannigans!

2010-03-08T19:24:00.005-07:00

Silly, Silly, Flannigans!

Rootange or Orange Beer?

2010-02-15T14:28:00.006-07:00

As a child, the mixing of flavors is a common thing... you know... the whole lemon-lime idea or the strawberry-banana? But for me in my house it was the mixing of Rootbeer and Orange soda. Now I know what you are going to say....but before the words "disgusting", or "freaks" pops out, you can't knock what you haven't tried!!!!

It has been years since I have concocted this delicious elixir...until the other night when I spent some time with my younger siblings. Rootbeer and orange soda were served and immediately my childhood passions took over, half orange/half rootbeer.... oh man! Sheer delight! Memories of my childhood came flooding in...hardworking Saturdays, with homemade hamburgers and fries....camping reunions...

I think I "root" for the orange beer!

bulbous

2009-09-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

BULBOUS

man I hate that word

37

2009-08-29T20:56:00.000-07:00

Every year for my birthday I try to have a catchy little saying.... a theme if you will.... for the up coming year. I really didn't want to have to rhyme something with seven, so I changed my tactic. I am calling this my year of 37's.

Read 37 books
Try 37 new recipes (on page 37 if at all possible)
Meet 37 new people
Write 37 "thinking of you cards"
Loose 37 pounds (which has been hard with the previous goal of trying 37 new recipes)
Run 3.7 miles
Visit 37 new places
Do 37 Temple Ordinances
Memorize 37 scriptures
Try 37 new things

Gotta get crackin'! 37 is almost up and I just started!

Fried Green Tomatoes

2009-08-15T18:48:00.001-07:00

When life hands you green tomatoes...

fry them!

When LIFE hands you red tomatoes,

onions,

fresh basil and oregano...

sauce them!!

The Bridge

2009-06-21T13:32:00.003-07:00

A Bridge stands
Stoic
Over the chasm of the deep
Linking ones heart to another
Held strong with beams of support
Braced with the power of Love
This is what bridges
The soul of a Father
To his child.

Happy Father's Day!

I love you!

Pathways!

2009-06-07T13:38:00.002-07:00

Most of my life I have walked on pathways that I did not create...

Ancient pathways that have been worn down from excessive use,

paved by many an ancestor feet.

Pathways that lead and guide and direct.

Pathways I want to follow.

Yet there comes a time when a person has to stop and create a pathway of their own.

One that is good and beautiful,

One that can be followed by those yet to come.

Those Dreaded Things....

2009-05-07T12:53:00.002-07:00

Many families have Those Dreaded Things....

You know.....

Those things that randomly show up in the oddest places

and that are found in the most embarrassing of times...

(especially when they are not found by you!)

You know what I am talking about.....

That moldy cheese sandwhich that floats throughout the country, being delivered in a bright golden package,by your boss, in honors of wishing you a happy birthday....

That black and white picture of Merlin Olson that shows up in your wallet....

The picture of Angela Landsbury that suddenly replaces your Drivers License....

Well, for me...

Those Dreaded Things showed up again...

A Firbee in my spice cupboard...

and the most dreaded of all....

That STUPID, red haired, flat backed, smirky little faced, Satanic, Troll Angel doll showed up in my cottonballs!!!

Thanks a lot Angie!!!

Sheer Pleasure

2009-03-24T16:19:00.009-07:00

I'm pretty sure that if you took a poll on the world's favorite, #1 Candy, it would have to be Cadbury Mini Eggs.

I don't know what it is about this delectable piece of decadence... maybe it's the sweetness of the vanilla, pastel shell..... or the crisp crackle of the coating as it is about to dissolve.... or maybe, it is the creamy smoothness of the velvety chocolate as it envelopes every taste bud, turning the mouth into a holy shroud of goodness! All I know is that I get the chills when I talk about it!

Sheer Pleasure!

Perspective

2009-03-05T18:34:00.010-07:00

It's amazing what you see...

when you look a little closer!

That All Might Be Satisfied

2009-01-04T16:08:00.004-07:00

When walking through Chongwe Village, I first met a bright, happy child of about 11. Agnes was beautiful! She was excited to see us and approached me with a gleaming, white smile. "You have such a beautiful smile." I said. "I know. Smiles are what make us beautiful. You have a beautiful smile, too." She responded. Immediately, I could tell I had just met someone very special.

Agnes and I became fast freinds and we spent most of the day together. She showed me her home and introduced me to her mother and grandmother. She showed me her school and the closest well, which was about a quarter of a mile away.

On our return trip from the well, the children surrounding me started chanting.... Tawali!!......Chakari!!......Tawali!!......Chakari!! I soon joined them, much to their delight and then found myself leading the chant! Tawali!!! Chakari!!!! Tawali!!! Chakari!!!! Agnes was beaming! After a while of making a huge rucous, I turned to her and asked. "What am I saying?" ...... "Food!!! Yes!!!" My heart just dropped. They were celebrating and anticipating a long awaited meal.

After the children washed their hands and found a rare plate to eat from, they were served a big lucious spoonful of Nshima and little fish relish. Those who ate, cherished every little morsel. I noticed that Agnes had missed the first round of serving. When the second round came, she stood in line with eager anticipation, sneaking a peak at the full Nshima pot. Her freshly used plate was also eager to be filled once more. Just as she got close to the pot, I saw her get out of line and hand her plate to her friend who was sitting across the way. I approached Agnes, "Agnes, are you not hungry?" "I am satisfied." "What?" I responded. "I am satisfied." I stood there so confused.... I had just seen her face as she got closer to some food. I knew she was hungry!

A little while later, that same plate made it into Agnes hands, when she ran to the Nshima pot to get her meal.

That all might be satisfied when giving up what they most want to serve someone else.

You Are Enough!

2008-12-28T11:33:00.006-07:00

One morning, as I was studying my scriptures to prepare myself for the day at Bwafwano Compound, I read in 3 Nephi of Christ visiting the people here on the American Continent. He had just issued the Sacrament to them and told them to "Remember..Rembember...Remember Him... and His spirit would always be with them."

As we stepped into the compound, I wanted to remember Him and to walk the dusty road as the Savior had, bringing hope, our love, and God’s love to them. We went out visiting the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted, the dying and destititute. As we approached the porch where a man was lying, dying of AIDS, a hush overcame us all, including the multitude of children following. A few of us encircled around him and his family, visiting and assessing their needs. Skin hung from his fragile bones, flies crawled over his chapped lips and sunken face. He lay only on a dirty, straw mat.

What was I doing here? What can I do? I've never seen a man die like this! I had nothing to give him, nothing to ease his suffering and pain. I had no medication. I had not even a pillow to lay his weak head. All I could provide was my love and a song... was it going to be enough?

"Heavenly Father you are wonderful! You are marvelous! You are excellent! We worship you Lord, because you’re wonderful, and you make us sing this song! He’s got the whole world in His hands, He’s got the whole world, in His hands, He’s got the whole world in His hands, He’s got the whole world in His hands. Heavenly Father you are wonderful! You are marvelous! You are excellent! We worship you Lord, because you’re wonderful, and you make us sing this song!"

As I sang this and looked at this listless man, lying on the ground, I became so overwhelmed with compassion, tears flowed to my eyes, and I knew what I was singing was true. Heavenly Father is Wonderful and He knows the sorrow of these people, they do not go unnoticed. The veil, seemed so thin, and as I knelt down by his side, I held his frail arm and thin hand in mine. I was so overcome and felt that I needed to tell him that God loved him, because he does! I tried to keep the flies from off of his face, but to no avail.

It was an interesting experience for me to hold a dying mans hand that I had never met and to feel the love and compassion I had for this man. I felt like I was truly living up to my baptismal covenants.... mourning with those who mourn and comforting those that stand in need of comfort.

Sometimes we feel like we have nothing to offer, nothing to give .... but a lesson I learned over and over again in Zambia was that...

We Are Enough!

Emmanuel

2008-11-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

If all children are of infinite worth, why are there so many suffering? What is my role in all of this? What is my reason for being here?

As I held two month Emmanuel in my arms, his closeness pierced through my heart. This beautifully dark skinned baby, whose smooth features were pure and defined, lay staring back at me with those innocent eyes of a newborn. "Why are you here little one?"..."Why did your mother have to die at childbirth from AIDS?"..."What is your future?"..."Who will take care of you?"...As these thoughts of dread came into my mind, my eyes brimmed with tears of sorrow for all twenty eight of these infants and toddlers around me. "Why must all you know is suffering?"..." Oh, Emmanuel. Sweet, sweet Emmanuel."

Emmanuel continued to look up at me as if he had some message to relay. "Emmanuel"..."Emmanuel"...his name replayed over and over in my mind..."Emmanuel!!!"...that name means something..."God with us". As that thought entered, it was followed by an incredible and undeniable feeling of peace and calmness. That was the message that he was trying to tell me, "God is with us! He knows us individually and He is here!" In deep humility and a healed heart, I wondered who am I to question God's love for ALL of His children.

Africa Alive -

2008-10-30T22:24:00.003-07:00

Some say that a picture is worth a thousand words, yet it is the stories behind these pictures that holds the most value...

Rock Out!

2008-09-14T18:07:00.006-07:00

It's official. I got my license to hunt!

I've heard of a lot of people getting a deer hunting permit, a fishing permit, and even more getting a driving permit......but you know me, I wanted to get something different, something not many people get. So I got a rock permit.

Shanna, her parents, her aunt and uncle and I went down to the San Rafael Swell and went rock hunting. Oh, man! Did we ever bag our buck! Shanna's miner (rock hunter) dad, found most of the rock. We pick axed, shoveled, prybarred and hauled out the illusive sandstone without too much of a fight, except for a smashed and broken third finger.

Caught our limit - - gritty, rippled, sandstone.

One and a half ton of solid earth...

After our hunting excursion, we did what all good people do in the San Rafael.... Look at dinosaur tracks...

look at past records of other hunters and gatherers...

shoot plastic bottles with a Ruger.357 mag...

(my ears are still ringing... did you say something?)

and of course, enjoy the beauty of the harsh desert.

The prize rock now sits on the back patio, waiting for its future use.... I'm debating whether I should just lay it or if I should use it as some awesome taxidermy!

36 and still in the Mix!

2008-08-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

This year for my birthday, I was outsourced to India with a computer problem. Carlton, my IT guy, was very helpful and also very flattering. (read with your best Indian accent) "Tarali...... what a beautiful name...... a beautiful name for a beautiful woman.... when I have a girl, I will call her that name.... if that is ok with you?......it is not copyrighted is it?...... Tarali, do you like music?..... because your voice is like music to me..... I love the inflections in your voice....you sound so beautiful.....now let's get on with your computer problem.... I am sure you would like that."

While waiting for my computer to reboot, we had some small chit chat about my past trip to India, and then came the whammy...."Tarali when you come back to India..... come to the south.... and remember me.... my name is Carlton...... and I will introduce you to my mother and my father...... they would love to meet such a beautiful and wonderful woman such as you!"

I hung up the phone amazed. Shook it off. Snapped my finger three times with a little head shuffle and said to myself.......

36 and still in the Mix!

How does your Garden grow?

2008-08-22T18:01:00.003-07:00

Before

During

After

Tarali, Tarali, quite contrarily

how does your garden grow?

With working hands and watering cans

and no free time to show!

Love

2008-08-22T17:14:00.002-07:00

Love is a wonderful thing...... so others tell me!

Shannon

2008-08-13T17:33:00.001-07:00

I'll do anything for a dear friend.....

It was an enchanting evening!

Even though the cake didn't cooperate...

...

Sunset Alert! Sunset Alert!

2008-08-05T17:58:00.002-07:00

Right Side Up and Up Side Down

2008-07-13T20:29:00.003-07:00

Do you remember that feeling long ago of doing your first Cart Wheel? The whoosh of the stomach, the strength of the arms, the dizzying of the head, the lightness of the legs, then the return of feet on solid ground.

Exhilerating!

The Wish

2008-06-26T20:13:00.003-07:00

How would it be, to be sitting in Miami Beach as a four year old, and the only wish you had for your fifth birthday was to go to Gramma and Pappa's house in Utah and go play in the snow............

at the end of June...........

Well, Indigo..... your wish is granted!!!

Oh to be young again and to get the wishes of your heart!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T19:34:00.005-07:00

When lilacs come into bloom, my mind automatically turns to my mom. A wonderful woman who loves her family more than anything else. A woman who is a mother to more than her own children and grandchildren. She has affected many lives through her love and patience. She has a deep concern over those she loves. She is a woman of service, of selflessness, a woman of faith. My mom is an amazing person, she is a great cook, a great gardener, a great nurse, a great confidant, a great ally, a great friend. Thank you mom for your consistant love, your support and great example.

I love you!

Be Glad Your Nose is on Your Face

2008-05-04T20:29:00.003-07:00

Be glad your nose is on your face,
not pasted on some other place,
for if it were where it is not,
you might dislike your nose a lot.

Imagine if your precious nose
were sandwiched in between your toes,
that clearly would not be a treat,
for you'd be forced to smell your feet.

Your nose would be a source of dread
were it attached atop your head,
it soon would drive you to despair,
forever tickled by your hair.
Within your ear, your nose would be
an absolute catastrophe,
for when you were obliged to sneeze,
your brain would rattle from the breeze.
Your nose, instead, through thick and thin,
remains between your eyes and chin,

not pasted on some other place--
be glad your nose is on your face!

by Jack Prelutsky

Double AA's keep going....and going.....and going

2008-05-04T19:50:00.007-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Angie and Abby came to visit. We had to pack a lot in, in a short amount of time. On the list of things "to do" was a photo shoot of Abby. Well..... over 200 pictures later...here are a few!

Abby's first lime experience
Abby's first Gateway fountain experience
her second lime experience?
her first reflection
her second reflection

her third reflection

Her attempt to be Grandpa

her attempt at Darth Vader

her attempt at Rapunzel

her attempt at Tarzan

her attempt at being the American Idol

her Bells Canyon hike

her once perfectly formed piece of cake

her sweet moment with the Grand Fins

Come back any time, Angie and Abby. We loved having you here. You might even think about bringing Chad next time!

New Years Resolution

2008-04-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how a little piece of yellow confetti, can send you back four months and remind you of the resolutions you were so resolutely going to accomplish.

(by the way I do vacuum my floor.... I really have no idea how it got there)

Thanks Easter Bunny..... Bawk ....Bawk!!

2008-03-24T20:34:00.006-07:00

The annual Easter Egg and Basket Hunt

20 Hidden Baskets + 100 Hidden Eggs = Lots of Chocolate and lots of FUN!

Except for Gregg - Sorry about Stupid Squirrel

Atonement

2008-03-23T20:09:00.006-07:00

New life breaks through the crusted ground. What was once pure white and undefiled, has now turned dreary and dull. Slowly, the warmth sprouts the hope of new life.

Like rain from heaven, drops of blood soak into the thirsty ground. The burden of hard ground, softens. Strength and endurance uncover the buried head. Light is seen, freedom comes, freedom to move, to grow, to blossom. Supernal love fills my soul, warms my heart and I feel new life. Vibrance!

NAAAACCCHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO

2008-03-16T11:11:00.009-07:00

Nacho Libre - A man with a nucleus -A man with eagle powers - A man who loves orphans.

Nacho Libre Night. A fiesta of sorts, full of witty one liners, Nacho Libre Music, eagle eggs, taco soup and of course nachos.....couldn't we just like have a salad or something? Everyone also enjoyed caramel popcorn on a stick... everyone except for Jed whose response was "Get that corn out of my face."

The house was full of Lucadors who wanted to get a little taste of the glory just to see what it tastes like.

Rico Suave El Sol, Stampeedo La Cucaracha,

Delicioso Frito Bandito , Flouta Fantastica,

Crushito Helga, Profundo Enchilada,

Babito Loco, Estupendo Amarillo Iceo,

Rapido Cabesa, Grande Frijoles,

Hilariosia Chimichanga, Destructo El Nino,

and little Nora was Fabulosa Huchimama.

We had muy funno!

Nacho's anyone?

p.s. OxooXoOxX

Orchid Winter

2008-02-15T19:49:00.001-07:00

I have never been one to wish Winter away, even though Spring is one of my favorite seasons, but as I walked into the Orchid Dynasty, my thrive for color overtook me and I knew that I needed to create a beautiful Spring basket to "warm" up the house. I love those moments that I can sit at the table and look out the window at the unflawed drifts of snow, then turn my head and see the comings of Spring.

Sunset Alert!

2008-02-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

Suuunset Alert! Suuunset Alert!!!!

A Prophet Remembered

2008-02-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of years, I have been blessed to serve at the Conference Center as a Guest Service Missionary, but the past couple of days have been the pinnacle of my service. I feel extremely blessed to have been able to serve at the viewing and then the funeral of our dear Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. The Conference Center became a sanctuary of reverance and peace as the Prophet was eulogized. President Hinckley always motivated me with his endurance and hard work, his love and charity, and his acceptance of all. His words inspire me to "Stand a little taller", to "do and be a little better", and to "forget myself and get to work". It was said of him "that his heart was so full of faith that there wasn't any room for doubt or fear". After the funeral and grave dedication, the Spirit in the hall was tangible. It literally touched my heart, filled my soul and brought tears to my eyes. Afar off in a section of the hall, soft, ominous voices filled the center with the words "We Thank Thee, Oh God, For a Prophet", for truly we were grateful for this prophet.

The Perfect Month

2007-12-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, Life, lets you glimpse at a little perfection!

The perfect storm...

The perfect scenery while snow shoeing up Millcreek...

The perfect Christmas Nativity......

The perfect Christmas Eve Pajamas....

The perfect Christmas morning...

The perfect Christmas Day...

And to end it all...

the Perfect DS Light Game!!!

Grandma's Rolls

2007-11-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

All growing up, trips down to Fillmore to visit Grandma and Grandpa were always a treat. But some of the best memories, were sneaking down into Grandma's freezer to partake of her frozen baked goods. Grandma was known particularly for her rolls and was called upon frequently to make them for any Fillmore social gathering. As I grew older, I tried and tried to get my rolls to turn out like Grandma's, but to no avail. The Thanksgiving after my Grandma passed away, I found myself really missing her and wanted more than anything for my Grandma to be with me on that thankful day. I knew the only way to have that be granted was if I could master her rolls. "Grandma..... you have to help me with these rolls. What do I need to do?" That night, I couldn't sleep. Grandma tutored me all night. " Make sure that you don't put too much flour in.........fold them over like this........the dough should be sticky but not too sticky......" In the morning I donned my apron and set to work, following the instructions closely that I learned the night before. With anticipation, I rolled them out, baked them and loaded them up in a basket to take over to my parents, where we were having the grand feast. As I walked in the door, and the rolls were nibbled on. I heard the joyful response...."These are just like Grandma's Rolls."

Party!Party!Party!Party!..Party!Party!Party!Party!

2007-11-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Having two siblings live in Florida, means when we go and visit,

it's TWICE the party!

Beaching!!!!!

Spider Parks!!!!!!

Fairchild Gardens!!!!!!

And for the Grand Finale Party......

Kiara's Birthday Party

Thanks Samuel, Sharon, Abby, Rich, Kiara, Angie, Indigo and Chad for the

PARTY!!! PARTY!!!! PARTY!!!! PARTY!!!! PARTY!!! PARTY!!!!

Blue Moon?

2007-09-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

I was walking out the door to the throw the garbage out, when

this

stopped me in my tracks!

My Roots

2007-09-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

You Belong in London

A little old fashioned, and a little modern.
A little traditional, and a little bit punk rock.
A unique soul like you needs a city that offers everything.
No wonder you and London will get along so well.

What City Do You Belong In?

"35" and still on the THRIVE!

2007-09-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

The morning of the 29th, I layed in bed thinking about my 35 years of life. While pondering I came up with my motto for the next year:

"35" and still on the THRIVE!!

So I put on my fluorescent green scrubs, symbolizing my bright future ahead, and went to work. That evening after a Welfare Meeting down at Welfare Square, Julie and Audra took me to Hires.

While there I met a man from Spain...

He asked me if I would join him sometime for Paella....

He asked me for my phone number...

He asked me for a picture with him...

He got me a Birthday Sundae....

He practiced his English by singing to me...

He got nothing from me but a picture and a smile...

Did you know that I can tie a knot in a maraschino cherry stem with my tongue in 5 Seconds?

"35" and still on the THRIVE!!!!

You Jane....Me Tarzan

2007-08-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

So I was a good Single Adult last night and supported my local Single Adult Activity, held up at the This Is the Place Monument Park. It took all of my courage, knowing that I would see and mingle with many twice my age. It ended up though, actually quite fun. I met some great new people and saw some old friends. The crowning jewel of the evening was when were just about to leave and I saw two women walking towards the exit. A man was hurrying along behind them yelling "Jane, Jane....... Isn't your name Jane?" When the women responded no, he said "Well my name is Tarzan and I am looking for my woman." The women chuckled nervously and as they kept walking on, sarcastically said, "That's a good one." I thought I was just about to loose it right then and there.

The Parable of the Gnats

2007-06-30T15:09:00.000-07:00

The other night as I was laying on the grass, listening to an outdoor Celtic concert, I couldn't help but get annoyed at the gnats that kept buzzing my face. A whole swarm wanted to be nowhere else but by me. I tried everything, laying flatter on the ground than my friends, raising my arm above my head, shooing them with more force and yes, cursing at them, but to no avail. Finally I had a realization that changed the rest of the evening. "If you can't fight them or change them, just enjoy them". So I sat back and started watching the pattern that each individual gnat was flying, I then recognized that the whole swarm moved together as one. I became enthralled with their coreographed movements one with another and how they stayed together as a cohesive group, not one gnat straying. It truly became a beautiful sight. As the evening came to a close and the gnats disappered with the sun, I was humbled one more time for the lesson that I had just been taught.

The Master Dad!

2007-06-17T15:42:00.000-07:00

How can one truly be as blessed as I have to have a dad like I do! There has never been a moment that I haven't felt his love and support. He is a man of integrity, love, patience, kindness, service and charity. He is a man who loves and respects his wife, his family and the Lord.

I have always loved being by my dad...whether it was sitting behind him combing his soft hair or him holding me tight while squeeking my neck. Whether it was short trips to Iceburg for a shake after a long day of yardwork, or long trips down to Laguna Beach with short days of play.

Whether he was lulling me to sleep by tickling my face and arms or him laying his strong hands on my head for a Father's Blessing. Whether its working on the yard or in the house or going out to dinner and watching a movie... I still love being with him.

He has taught me so much and continues to teach me by his wonderful example. Not only is he a Master Gardener, Master Chef, Master Contractor, Master Scriptorian, but he is a Master Dad! (how many hours of volunteer work did that take?)

I love you Dad!!!

My Brain's an "A"

2007-04-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

Brain Academy -

a DSLight Nintendo game that challenges all parts of the brain

Think

Memorize

Analyze

Compute

Identify

This game was introduced to me by my mentor, Sharon, while in Florida last January.

It was ingrained into my soul by my own competetive nature.

Well 4 months later and a lot of test taking

I brought my score up from a

D+

to an

A!!!

Idle triflings?????? I THINK not!

Strengthen The Core - - 2007!

2007-01-08T17:55:00.000-07:00

After realizing that my back pain was due to poor abdominal muscles, I knew that I had to make some changes physically. I had to "Strengthen The Core". I did my 3 sit ups on the body ball and I realized that maybe I was in worse shape than I thought.

Another thought hit me - - What about the other "cores" in my life? How was my spiritual core? My emotional and mental cores? Because really, it is all about the core.... it has to be strong so that all of the other appendages have a strong foundation to cling to.

So with deep reflection, I defined my cores....

First and most important..... My spiritual core is Jesus Christ

Second.... My emotional core comes from childlike attributes

So with a renewed dedication to be a true disciple, and with a snowman and snow angels in the yard.... I am on my way to

"Strengthen The Core.....2007"

Millcreek Canyon

2006-10-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

This year I took a solitary drive up Millcreek Canyon - this is what I found!

Pretty amazing! HUH?

NY to DC

2006-09-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

All growing up I watched Dick Clark drop the ball on Time Square to usher in a new year. This year for my 34th birthday, my friend Liz and I decided that we too, needed to drop the ball and go to New York. We packed our bags and headed off to Time Square, where we would find our hotel, The Millenium.

We had two fun filled days walking throughout New York, one in the pouring rain, the other with blue skies. I think we accomplished about everything you can do - we saw "Wicked" on broadway, ate a hot dog in Central Park, cried at Ground Zero, saw the Statue of Liberty, walked the Brooklyn Bridge in the pouring rain, ate pizza at Grimaldi's, shopped at H&M, took pictures on top of the Rockefeller Center, fell asleep on the subway, and saw the exhibit"Bodies" on the pier.

We then hopped on the Amtrak, down to D.C. where we stayed in the mission home with Liz's parents who are the Mission Presidents of the D.C. South mission. Our stay wasn't very long, but long enough to know that rest is a rare commodity in that home.

before...after

2006-09-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

This Summer has meant a lot of changes in the yard!

BEFORE!!!!

AFTER!!!!

Pilgramage

2006-07-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

There is something about a pilgrimage that brings a person back to the core of their belief.

As I walked the 40 mile path through the plains of Wyoming, my blistered feet remind me of the sacrifice of the "Mormon" pioneers, each painful step urging me to think deeper. We walk and walk, over the boulders of Rocky Ridge, through the refreshing coolness of the Sweet Water, through dry sage brush lands, over more hills and down into lush green meadows, along more streams and along what would be considered nothing at all. Yet songs and stories of the sacrifice of those who have gone before, fill our hearts and fill our minds. Their legacy of faith burns deep inside, and rekindles what I already know to be true.

We walk on paths we did not create!

We drink from wells we did not dig!

How grateful I am for those who have gone on before

and who have created a legacy of faith!

May I continue that legacy,

so that those who are behind me might enjoy the same journey

and the same refreshing drink.

Grapefruit!!!!

2006-07-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Tiki

2006-06-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

I've always enjoyed going to Disneyland..... Mickey Mouse, Corn Dogs, Splash Mountain, and the Jungle Ride. But one spot has always been especially refreshing....The Tiki Room....It allows you to get out of the hot sun and be entertained by robotic cockatoos and parrots.

Everytime I walk downstairs, I suddenly feel that same refreshment, the coolness of my own Tiki Room.......all I am missing is a corn dog!

Broken Cokix

2006-02-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

Some people look like their dogs.....

Other people look like their cars...

My car just happened to want to be like me!

I broke my "cokix" sledding earlier in the month,

my car broke his 1 week before the lease was up.

Remember

2006-02-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Remember...
An account of some of my memories of Grandma and Grandpa Finlinson

~ Sitting in my night gown pulled around my feet, in the middle of Grandpa’s pea patch early in the morning.
~ Trying to wake up before Grandpa, but knowing deep down he would be up first and the comfort that knowing gave me.
~ The pride on Grandpa’s face as he held up an amorphous vegetable, with Grandma in the background, smiling proudly at a husband who could create such a phenomenon.

~ Grandma’s soft hands.
~ Grandpa’s half fore finger tricks.
~ Saltines and Ice Cream (only eaten at Grandmas)
~ The warm comfort that came out

of Grandma’s kitchen.
~ Sweet, constant encouragement to do my best and to keep practicing.
~ Soft, buttery Grandma rolls.
~ Top Secret doughnut raids from the downstairs freezers.
~ Rook Tournaments
~ Whisker burned cheeks from Grandpa’s kisses, quickly soothed by Grandma’s soft ones.
~ The delight in Grandma’s eyes when you came to visit and the tears when you left.
~ My long late night talk with Grandma, just shortly after Grandpa died. And her statement that she chose him ( I didn’t realize how many suitors she had) "Because he treated me differently than all the other guys. There was something in his eyes, I had seen them somewhere before".
~ Grandma’s sweet smile, the twinkle in her eye, her soft disposition, and her nonjudgmental countenance.
~ Just sitting in the early morning with Grandpa, reading or talking or just being, while everyone else slept.
~ Grandpa’s gentle touch, through his rough, strong hands.

What's Better Than Neices or Nephews?

2005-12-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

"What’s better than nieces and nephews?"
She was asked one bright sunny day.
Is it traveling to some exotic place?
Or eating creme brulee?

Is it hiking on some mountain high?
Or eating Joel’s pistachio pie?
Is it watching a balloon float up to the sky?
Or thinking you feel like you could fly?

"What’s better than nieces and nephews?"
Her list showed not a one,
so with her fingers pulled back, but one finger and thumb,
a wink in her eye, said "lets have some fun".

Pate Choux

2005-12-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

It is finished - - - after two years of looming over me, I finally accomplished one of my goals of 2004. I have learned how to make Pate Choux - or otherwise known as....
E C L A I R E S .

Luscious chocolate covered, custard filled, pastry of goodness.

Autumn

2005-10-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

You know....Just when I thought that Spring was my favorite season,
we have a fall like this, and I realize....No, Autumn is my favorite!

The vibrant colors...
The chill...
The smell...
The
transformation...
The glory of change!

Each leaf transformed into a precious jewel ... seperating from its conformal green to something more progressive, more vibrant, more colorful, more rich!

Holy Pilgrimage

2005-02-23T23:05:00.000-07:00

I just finished my holy pilgrimage to the city Rishikesh.... a place of meditation, yoga, instruction, and a bath in the holy ganges river.......actually two. I have become pure and will reach nirvana because of all the water I swallowed. I just hope it doesn't become nirvana revenge. We camped on the white beaches in the foothills of the Himalayas. The olive green river flowed through the ravine of high towering hills, dotted with ashrams or learning places for the pilgrims. Terraced mountains, rain, monkeys and the sound of flowing water awakened me to my new reality. The ititnerary for the day...... my first yoga session.....white water rafting on the Ganges River.... hitting the rapid Panga and flipping over on the raft.......... deciding I am already wet so why not jump in later and surf down the Body Surf rapids........... a religious discourse on Hinduism with a Swami......visiting the holiest city in Hinduism, Rishikesh..........and watching the Aarti, or evening prayers to Krishna on the Ganges. It was truly enlightening!

On the way back to Delhi, we visited a leper colony one of the rotary clubs here helps. What a beautiful little village. Fingerless, footless, noseless, hearts of gold, and pure souls, came to see the Americans with their big smiles, fingerless namastes, and glitters in their eyes. 80 families are supported with food and medication, bandages and clothing. What a beautiful sight...

The Rotary Blood Bank was next.... impressive. It is amazing the goodness of people in this world. They give so much time and money. Truly it is service above self. Wally and I have left everyone at the airport last night, we leave for Kathmandu today. So far everything sounds good for us to go. I am excited for awaits me.... The children in the orphanage, going to church at the Kathmandu Branch, toothless smiles from those we are about to help.

The Pearl and Polio Plus

2005-02-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

The Taj Mahal, a pearl set in the midst of poverty... yet this country seems to become more wealthy the longer I am here. Perspective.... experience......
the Taj like the women of India, are jewels amongst the dirt, dust and pollution. Every day is a special occasion... a time to dress up.... a time to be feminine. Long flowing saris like jewels: emeralds, jade, amethyst, amber, coral, topaz, diamonds, turquoise,rubies,sapphires, glitter in the sun. Softly they stroll, gracefully they sit amongst the aggressiveness of their lifestyle. The pride of a street beggar, sweeping the garbage from her domain, to place it in the pile a few steps from her. The duty of a village woman, kneading cow dung and patting it into symmetric discs to dry in the sun. Stately they sit on the back of a scooter, royally they sit in the rickshaw. They are beautiful.... beautiful like the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal... a monument made for a woman. White like the mother pearl, glistening with precious gems. Her figure, completely symmetric is laced with flowers from the relief cut marble. Draped with inlaid coral and malekite. From her flows the milk of hope, of inspiration, of love, of beauty. Peace is her aura. She breathes, she moves, she flows. Her heart beats. Her face changes with the light, always serene, always peaceful, always smiling.

Polio, that is what has brought me here.... today I gave the two drops that could save a child from this horrible disease. I went from tent camp to tent camp, yelling doorgam!!!!!! come...run quickly! little children would come running with half naked, filthy little bodies.....stop and open their mouths for the vaccine. They understand the importance... little babies cheeks were pinched to open their mouths, black marker on the little finger determined who had the drops or not....whistles were passed out.... and as I walked away.... little whistles rang the most beautiful thank you I have ever received. Goodness, love, charity, humanity. That is what keeps me coming back to these places.

Maharaja

2005-02-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

All I have to say is Maharaja.....

the marble columns of the Amber Fort,

ornately decorated doors, the balconies,
the blown glass walls, the courtyards, the gardens,

the painted elephants
and vibrant turbans,

the stacked souvenier shops,
the observatory,
the rose colored Wind Palace Facade,

the floating Jal Mahal, and the City Palace

......Maharaja!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jaipur Foot Factory

2005-02-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

So today was the 200 km bus ride from delhi to jaipur. I watched the road and countryside for hours, never getting tired or bored. So much to see. I wondered how many men had been sitting in their spot, watching for hours, never getting tired or bored. We passed bright fields of wheat and mustard seed, and in this sea of flourescent yellow, red, turquoise blue, purple, hot pink, green and orange saris slowly bobbed up and down. What a beautiful sight.

Today we visited the Jaipur Limb Factory, where the famous Jaipur foot is made. These artifical limbs cost about 30 dollars to manufacture and cost nothing to the patient , in which about 40-50 patients get a new limb every day. Lined up along the streets crippled people sat, waiting for days for their name to get to the top of the list. They loved seeing us, touching us. I held their hands, with huge smiles on their faces, they looked up. We would exchage namaskars. I would take pictures with the digital camera so they could see themselves. What a fun change from their every day life! I mostly saw people with polio, a woman with leprosy, car accident victims, etc. It really hit seeing all of those many people with polio. That is why I am here... To alleviate any others from this pain. The highlight for today.....being surrounded by all of these beautiful people whose life was about ready to change because of this factory... such hope!!!!!!

The Holy Ganges

2005-02-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

The holy river Ganges - the most sacred river to the Hindu. It is not dirty, it is your soul and your heart that are dirty if you think it is dirty. People bathe, pray, brush their teeth, dump the ashes of their dead, wash their clothes, dump their sewage, dump figurines of the goddess Saraswati, meditate, recite scripture, sell souveniers. They come to the river and wait to die, for if you die in the river, you reach Nirvana.

As soon as I stepped off the bus, I was blessed with the red tika dot, further on down the road, a yellow one adjoined the red. Red tika powder was thrown all over to celebrate the last day of the festival for the goddess Saraswati. Fantastic.... Another sensory overload.

Sarnath, the place of Buddha's enlightenment and first sermon, Buddhist's believe he is the enlightened one, hindu's that he is the 9th reincarnation of Vishnu. Maroon and yellow robed monks, walked the peaceful ground. Pilgrims meditating and praying.

Back to the river to watch the nightly cremations and the evening prayer ritual.......they say a picture is worth a thousand words, experiencing it is about a million, so my words are worthless....but it was amazing.

Namaste

2005-02-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

India is everything I thought it would and more. This place is fantastic. So full of life and color. It took me 32 hours to get here and settled. let me just say that any bed that allows you to get vertical, feels great! yesterday was jam packed full of goodness. it involved a city tour, visiting the monument that lays over the place Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated, the largest mosque in India, and a rickshaw ride through old delhi. We were 12 rickshaws going down a wide blvd, which then turned to a small street, then to a shadowy canyon-like small alley where 4 story bldgs almost touch at the top. Our rickshaws are no longer together, we've been swallowed up by the river of people, motor scooters, honking horns.

Absolute wall to wall people, your elbow bumps others in rickshaws, pedestrians hang on behind you and follow, others wedge between and step over the front wheel, motor scooters constantly honk horns, and there is this feeling of a sea of humanity. You struggle to take it all in, look to the right and see vendors with gold, the left they're selling rugs, then you're confronted with awful smells where they are slaughtering chickens, then selling car parts, then small herds of goats, then book stores, make-shift hardware stores, boxes of electronic gadgets with made up names (Pana-Sonik, Sunni, etc), children gestering with their hands to give them something to eat, and in the middle of it all are dozens and dozens of these little 4-table restaurants frying-frying-frying something....

You stare not wanting to miss anything, they stare at you, you are so close to each other you can easily reach out and take something as the rickshaw goes by, or others can touch you and sometimes do by accident. The people are in rags, others with cell phones and leather attache cases, women are either dressed in bright colors (orange, purple, pink) and their mid-drift is completely exposed, or they are covered from head to toe in black and you see the gauze like material move as they breath.

The senses are overwhelmed. Ten minutes seems like an hour, 30 minutes seems like all afternoon. When you finally reach the mosque you are to visit and you dismount the rickshaw you feel exhausted, and realize it all took about 45 minutes.

After removing your shoes, pay someone for a little tag that allows you to take photos, climb the many stairs, and from the top of this very high stairway you look back, see the 1000's of people flowing down the streets and realize, I will never be able to find the words to describe this experience.

But the highlight for today.... visiting Mother Theresa's Orphanage, "The Sisters of Charity Orphanage for the Mentally and Physically Handicapped". What a treat! Those cute kids were so excited to see us and to touch us. Reaching out crippled hands to touch white skin, smiles exploding in their eyes and on their faces. We are all God's children, and he loves us all. I felt God's love for these dear children, and for me. It is amazing what we learn through suffering, and watching the suffering of others. We see the charity, the love, the peace of the experience.

I am now in Varanasi, the holiest city in Hinduism. Tomorrow we break the day on the holy Ganges River, visit the place of Buddha's first sermon, and then end the day by sending a prayer candle down the holy river.