A Little Bit of Marisa

Be Still My Soul

2009-11-10T00:28:00.002-05:00

1. Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;

Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly, Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

2. Be still, my soul; thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

3. Be still, my soul, though dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears;
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrows and thy fears.
Be still, my soul; thy Jesus can repay
From His own fulness all He takes away.

4. Be still, my soul; the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul; when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

What Drives Edward May Soon Drive You

2009-11-04T21:10:00.002-05:00

OK, really?!? I love this. AMAZING! Claire... you can win this one!!!!

What drives Edward Cullen may soon drive you

Provided by Volvo

Know what Edward Cullen drives? Volvo is putting a challenge out to all Twilight fans by launching a new online promotion in conjunction with the release of Summit Entertainment's The Twilight Saga: New Moon. Fans can visit http://www.whatdrivesedward.com/ and enter for a chance to win a pair of tickets to The Twilight Saga: New Moon world premiere in Los Angeles on Nov. 16 and an opportunity to meet select members of the New Moon cast.

Starting November 1, fans have the chance to win a shiny new Volvo XC60 just like the one Edward drives in New Moon. By logging ontohttp://www.whatdrivesedward.com/ and putting their Twilight saga knowledge to the test in an interactive game-like contest, fans will be in the running for Volvo's newest, highly acclaimed crossover featuring City Safety, a unique safety system designed to help the driver avoid or reduce low-speed collisions that are common in city traffic.

"Volvo is central to Edward's character in the Twilight saga," said Doug Speck, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. "One lucky fan will be the first to solve all of the puzzles in Volvo's What Drives Edward contest and win a new XC60. While the XC60 doesn't come equipped with a vampire, the winner will experience the power, beauty and protection that is Volvo-and it will transport them to all of their great moments in life."

How the Volvo What Drives Edward Contest Works

Starting Nov. 1, players can register athttp://www.whatdrivesedward.com/ and will receive clues to help solve a series of puzzles. Since the puzzles increase in difficulty, players are encouraged to exchange hints through Facebook, Twitter and MySpace. The contest runs for three weeks from November 1 through November 23.

In addition to the contest, fans can watch trailers from the film, check out photos in the gallery and download New Moon-themed desktop wallpapers at http://www.whatdrivesedward.com/.

Fans that don't win the online contest and want their own new shiny Volvo XC60, just like the one Edward drives, can visit a local Volvo retailer or go to www.volvocars.com/us to build their own. Edward's XC60 features the Saville Grey metallic exterior, a sandstone beige/espresso interior, a cream leather steering wheel,19-inch Achilles diamond cut wheels and exterior accessories such as side scuff plates, front bumper bar and rear skid plates.

In addition to the United States the online promotion will run in Canada, the United Kingdom and France where fans in those countries collectively will have a chance to win two tickets to the world premiere and a winner in each country will be awarded a shiny new Volvo. Fans in Germany will be able to compete in the online game and win a car as well.

The Twilight Saga:New Moon opens in U.S. theaters November 20. In the film directed by Chris Weitz and starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner, the romance between mortal and vampire soars to a new level as Bella Swan (Stewart) delves deeper into the mysteries of the supernatural world she yearns to become part of-only to find herself in greater peril than ever before. Following Edward Cullen's (Pattinson) departure from Forks, Washington, Bella discovers his image comes to her whenever she puts herself in jeopardy. In time Bella's frozen heart is gradually thawed by her budding relationship with Jacob Black (Lautner) who has a supernatural secret of his own

How Firm A Foundation

2009-09-26T22:44:00.004-04:00

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid up for faith in God's excellent word!
What more can He say, than to you He has said ---
You who to the Saviour for refuge have fled?

In every condition, in sickness, in health;
In poverty's vale, or abounding in wealth;
At home, or abroad; on the land, on the sea;
As need may demand shall our strength ever be.

If through the deep waters He cause us to go,
The rivers of grief shall not overflow;
And He will be with us in troubles to bless,
And sanctify to us our deepest distress.

If through fiery trials our pathway should lie,
His grace all-sufficient shall be our supply;
The flame shall not hurt us; His only design
Is the dross to consume and the gold to refine.

Fear not, He is with us; oh, be not dismayed!
For He is our God, and will still be our aid;
He'll strengthen us, help us, and cause us to stand,
Upheld by His gracious omnipotent hand.

The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,
He will not (He's said it) give up to its foes;
That soul, though all hell should endeavour to shake,
He'll never --- no, never --- no, never forsake.

Marisa (or Jessica)'s House of Dreams

2009-08-28T23:15:00.010-04:00

Last night I went to Mom and Dad's after work to say hi... it turned out that Dad and Eric had to go to meeting at church so Mom, Jess, Joanna and the kids and I went to Noodles and Co for dinner. Then in hopes that some cranky children (ie Ava) would go to sleep we took the long way home. We pulled into a new little neighborhood. Beautiful custom homes... I was in love. I saw through the trees a red house and asked Joanna to go towards it. It was a new house with a for sales sign in front. As we were getting ready to pull away I saw their were some fliers in the front of the house. I asked Joanna to back up so I could get one of the fliers. As Joanna got out to get one for me (since I was wedge in between two car seats in the middle seat of the van) a white truck pulled in front of the van. A man rolled down the window and asked if we wanted to see the inside of the house. We said yes (Joanna did explain we were just looking but he seemed happy to let us see it). Mom, Jess and I got out while Joanna waited in the car with the kids. After being in the house for about 5 minutes the builder asked if we would be willing to lock up for him. Ummmm... yes... of course. So he left us in the house with the key in my hot little hands. Heaven, I'm in heaven. Of course when he left, we figured it was safe to let the kids run loose. We all had a great time and loved this house. My only regret was no pictures. The Pink Crackberry was being moody.

There was a little debate who this dream house really belonged to...Marisa? Jessica? Only time will tell which Garofalo sister wins this one. Let's be honest, probably neither of us. Sigh!!!! Maybe you? Well, if anyone wants to spend $539,247 on a Single Family Home in Midlothian, VA. I know of a great 3051 sq ft home with living room, dining room, family room, awesome kitchen with marble counters and chrome appliances,

mud room, full laundry room, vaulted ceiling, hardwood floors downstairs, wall to wall carpeting upstairs, 4 bedrooms, 3 1 ½Bathrooms and 2 car garage. MLS#: 2909

448. I deserve a finders fee if any one settled into this great community b/c of my long overdue blogging.

(I found this picture online... this is unfinished. It has a porch and a yard now. So cute!)

http://www.homesandland.com/Real_Estate/VA/City/Midlothian/ListingId/13101063.html

Awesome

2009-08-28T23:07:00.001-04:00

This is just so dumb... but you all know I act like a 15 year old girl... so I love it.

Deep Thoughts From Brandon Walsh

2009-07-16T22:45:00.002-04:00

It should be no surprise that I am a fan of some old school 90210. Today I was watching some circa 1996 episodes and I got some well needed words of wisdom:

Every lifetime has it's rainy season. This is your rainy season... your sunny days are right around he corner.

I liked it. While I have tried to deceive you in my title... this was not uttered by Brandon Walsh. He woulda. He shoulda. I am going to give him the credit for it since he directed the episode.

My Latest Addiction

2009-02-19T19:56:00.002-05:00

Check out my new Pink Blackberry!

I had PLANNED to get a regular ol' phone but how do you

go back to a plain phone after having a TREO?! Silly Risa!

25 Reasons Why I Am Not Married

2009-01-27T20:08:00.006-05:00

Tonight my roommate Claire and I were talking about a "note" entitled "25 Things About Me" that was circulating through all of our friends on Facebook. Some of you know what I am talking about. Anyway, I told Claire I was pretty sure I could come up with my own list "25 Reasons Why I Am Not Married"... Yes, Claire, I came up with 25 reasons and here they are (and these are in no specific order- at least not on purpose)

1. LOST

2. One Tree Hill

3. Bromance

4. American Idol

5. The Office

6. The Hills

7. Samantha Who

8. Grey's Anatomy

9. Private Practice

10. That 70's Show

11. Run's House

12.Keeping Up With The Kardashians

13. Everybody Loves Raymond

14. Alias

15. Diners, Drive-In's and Dives

16. What Not To Wear

17. The City

18. 30 Minute Meals

19. Scrubs

20. Charmed

21. The Castle

22. Fringe

23. People's Court

24. Every Day Italian

25.My Name Is Earl

So these are 25 TV shows that I watch on either a regular or semi-regular basis... oh and there is one that I am excited to start watching. REALLY?!?! SERIOUSLY?!?! Yup. It's true. I have two words for you... NO WONDER. I am going to be honest, I am sure this is not all. There are other TV show I watch but these are the ones I thought of pretty easily. We're not even talking about scandalous number of DVD's I own. Now is the icing... I just don't think I care. I love TV. I am not sure this revelation with make me shun my couch potato tendencies.

Dad: Our Favorite Reluctant Patient

2009-01-23T13:34:00.004-05:00

I am probably gonna get in trouble for this but it's my blog and I can write whatever I want, right?!!?!

For those who haven't heard, my Dad has been in the hospital since Wednesday afternoon. While at work he started to feel a bit weak and faint. He tried to call his cousin Stephen who also works at the Prison, but he couldn't dial the extension. He told his inmate clerk that he wasn't feeling well and shortly after began vomiting blood and passed out. He also, possibly suffered a small seizure. Dad's clerk took his radio and shop keys from him and called for the institutions medic on the radio and then dialed 911 to call the ambulance. Fortunately, Stephen was close by and was able to get over to the shop quickly and found Dad's students trying to help him and praying for him. When the ambulance came Dad was rushed to St Francis hospital located about 2 minutes from Mom and Dad's house.

The doctor's did a test on Wednesday night (we'll see if I can get this all right) where they used a laparscopic scope through his throat into his stomach to see where the bleeding was originating. The belief was he was suffering from a bleeding ulcer. They had some trouble determining exactly what was going on b/c there was a clot found at the base of his esophagus but they were unsure what the clot was covering. Then plan was to go in again Thursday or Friday to get a better look.

Last night around 5pm they were able to go back and look at the clot and Dad's stomach. This time they found varicose type veins on the outside of his stomach... a place where they shouldn't normally be. It can be the symptoms of some pretty serious things but we won't dwell on those now. The doctors have looked at his heart, his liver and are continuing to do test so they can find out how best to help Dad.

Dad is not the most cooperative patient. When he was 1st admitted he was trying to convince them to let him go home that night... right Dad! He tried flirting with one of the nurses... no luck. After his procedure on Wednesday night he got a little combative with the hospital staff. We are sure this was a side effect of the medication they gave him. Mom was able to go in and get him a bit calmer and stayed with him through the night. He slept a lot yesterday and I am not sure how much of the day he really remembers. Today he seems a bit more like himself. He said, maybe I'll go home tomorrow. Ahhh... baby steps.

We are all very thankful to the wonderful friends and family who have kept Mark in their prayers and we ask for you to continue to do so. Hopefully we will get some idea of what the causes of Mark's condition soon.

A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride?

2009-01-04T19:19:00.006-05:00

Over Christmas I watched A LOT of cheesy Christmas movie. One night I watched one on Lifetime called A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride. The whole time I was watching it I felt like I knew the "daughter of the bride" but I couldn't quite put my finger on where I knew her from.

Samantha from Bewitched? No.

Jennie Garth (see here with Luke Perry)? Not it.

Then it hit me...

Barbie!

Frosty the Snowman

2008-12-16T21:14:00.006-05:00

FACT: Marisa does not do crafts. She doesn't scrapbook, stamp, make wreaths, flower arrangements, cute little signs or decorations... frankly, she can't really draw or cut a straight line.

So tonight at YW's when we had the girls making scripture bags, I was kinda relieved that we were 1 bag short, leaving me free from the task of making one. All that ribbon and glitter paint was making me a bit nauseous. Still, the responsible (ha ha) adult made me feel like I needed to do SOMETHING productive while the everyone else worked on their bags. We had some little finger puppets/ornaments that the girls could make as well if they had time left... so I thought, I can make a finger puppet. Surely I could handle a tiny little ornament. So there he is... Frosty... hanging on the tree. He is cute right?!?! Yeah, ummm... that's b/c it's small, the picture is fuzzy, and the mood lighting from the Christmas tree makes him look slightly airbrushed.

Now if you look at us in the light you will see him for the crippled snow man he is... arms too long (the instruction SAID, "cut 2- 1" sections for the arms," crooked smile, doofy hat, silly ear muffs... I do like his little scarf though. I will say unless you saw him up close and personal you couldn't really see how ghetto he really is.

Oh well, I guess I will go back to my life motto... why make when you can buy.

Merry Christmas!!!!

July Through November

2008-12-01T21:03:00.004-05:00

I know I said I was going to post something. I meant to... really. It's like I used to be with my journal. I'd get out of the habit of writing. I would want to start again but I always thought I needed to try to catch myself up on everything that happened. I kept getting further behind until it was too overwhelming to write at all. Why do I do that? I am going to try to sum up...

JULY...

In July one of my dearest friends Anna came to visit me from Utah on her way to Europe. We spent a few days in DC and Richmond together and then she was off. We had a great time. We were even able to visit with my friend Scott in Alexandria who so kindly let us invade his life for a few days. After Anna left Jessica and I had a mad dash to pack up our lives and put them into storage. We moved out of our apt at the end of July and prepared our self for a month of nomad living. The plan was for me to live with mom and dad and her to live with our brother Eric and his wife Joanna for until we were able to move into our new place...

AUGUST...

The 1st week of homelessness I was house sitting so I packed my car with all my belongings not in storage that I needed for the month. The last day of said house sitting was a Tuesday... I had an appt to get a haircut which took WAY too long and I was supposed to be downtown at 7 for institute. I really needed the spiritual pick me up but I was not going to have enough time to unpack my car before going and I didn't want all my prized possessions including my computer to be unguarded in my car for a few hours in that neighborhood. So I went home and borrowed my mom's car so I could go to institute. I was about a mile from Mom and Dad's when another driver ran a red light and smashed into the left side of mom's car totalling it. I was fortunate that no one including my self was injured. Despite the fact that it wasn't my fault I hated the fact that Mom's car was "dead" not a great way to return back home.

In August I was also called to serve as the 1st counselor in the Young Women's Presidency in a newly re-established branch in the Chesterfield Stake, The Oak Grove Branch. Formerly the Manchester Branch where Dad served as the Branch President. It's a small unit with only 3 girls in the YW and serving with my friend Wendy as the YW President. My records are still in the Singles Ward (and I have been attending both the singles ward and the branch) where I still serve as the Visiting Teaching Coordinator which I do love.

SEPTEMBER....

Sept 8th the world welcomed another Garofalo to the world. My cute little niece Reagan Lee Garofalo was born to brother Devin and his wife Shannon. I have to be honest, Reagan is beautiful. I mean, I know she is my niece and you might think I am biased but she really is such a sweet faced child.

Sadly, Reagan's birth was overshadowed for Jessica and I with evenings of cleaning and painting our new house in preparation for moving. We actually didn't get to see her for a few days after she was born b/c things were so crazy. We are lucky to have great roommates and friends who stepped up and helped us. While we didn't actually finish painting before we moved in Mid-September but I know we wouldn't have accomplished nearly as much with out extra help. Even now we still have more painting to do... we should get on that. We were also very fortunate to have good friends who were willing to help us move. With their help we actually gone things out of storage and into the house in a few hours. THANKS AGAIN to everyone who helped.

OCTOBER...

I can't truly express how difficult July-September really were for me to anyone. So much was happening for me not only with the move but personally. Lots was changing... on top of the things I mentioned. Work has been stressful to say the least. I also had some car issues which cost me a little bit of money to have taken care of. I found out my license was suspended (that is a way long story) which was pretty upsetting to me. My grandfather, who had been living with my parents, was having chemo treatments for some skin cancer. Once his treatments were over he decided to move back to California. Mom was in the hospital for a few days (about the time we moved), a friend of mine at work had a heart attack, another friend at work was diagnosed with a brain tumor, some friendships grew apart, other friends moving and getting married... I was beginning to feel like my life had made a complete overhaul. In many ways it did.

October brought a little more calmness into my life. I think I was finally feeling OK with all the changes that had occurred. Being settled into my new place made things easier. I think feeling like I was without routine was hard. There is a something important to be able to sleep in your own bed. Watch your own TV, eat food from your own refrigerator.

NOVEMBER....

While the rest of the world was anxious to see who would be elected as our next President of the United States... I was more excited to see another niece come into the world. On November 4th, Julia Lyn Garofalo was born to Eric and Joanna. Josh and Ava were WAY excited to be the proud "owners" of this new little additional to their family. I would say, I have some cute little nieces and nephews.

Somewhere in the beginning of November I noticed some red bumps on my arms. At 1st I thought I was having an allergic reaction... but after a few days and through the observation of others that became unrealistic. So finally I went to the doctor. APPARENTLY, I became the object of affection for some kinda bug according to the doctor. It was rather gross. I had red bumps all over my arms and legs. I would be lying to say I didn't have a break down or two over it. I saw no evidence of any buggies which made matters worse. Mom came over and we did the best we could to clean and wash everything in my room since I was the only one in the house of 4 girls to have been effected. It didn't seem to be going away and Mom suggested I get a blessing from my Dad. Luckily they were having dinner with some friends of theirs who just happened to be my singles ward Bishop and his wife who I am close to as well. Bishop Levin administered the blessing. I was very grateful to both my parents and the Levin's for their kindness and for their encouragement of me. Now 2 weeks later most of the bumps are gone. Hopefully for good. I don't care what it was as long as it doesn't come back.

there is so much more I could talk about but that is going to have to be it for now. My brain is hurting. Bed is calling.

I will try to post some pictures soon. And I will try to be better with the blogging.

Fully Alive

2008-11-02T09:03:00.003-05:00

It has been a LONG time since I have written anything, I know. Those of you I don't see (or talk to) on a regular basis were probably wondering if I was dead. Well, you can now sleep through the night to know I am fully alive. Things on the Marisa front have been crazy. I kinda don't know where to start to catch you (and myself) up, but I will try. So stay tuned in the next week or so... Marisa blogging is back. Not right now though. I need to get dressed for church.

T.G.I...EXtreme Dare Friday!

2008-06-22T19:55:00.007-04:00

For Christmas I got a daily calendar called, Dumb Dares for the office, that sits on my desk at work. Friday's are particularly exciting b/c the calendar has Extreme Dare Friday's. A few weeks ago my co-worker Frank was skulking past my desk when I unveiled the EXTREME DARE... he thought it was way funny and so he dared me to it. He offered to help me out. How could I refuse?

What you can not read says: "Draw a chalk outline (or form in masking tape ouline) of a human body outside the front door of your place of work."

Here is my masking tape outline in the door way of our boss's office.

And here is Frank. He was so proud of himself, standing here with his roll of masking tape.

UNFORTUNATELY, we had to take it down before too many people saw it. Oopsies... we got into a little trouble for it. Oh well, what's the fun of Extreme Dare Friday's without a little crime and punishment, huh?!?

Don't worry folks...there are more dares to come.

A Modern Fairy Tale

2008-06-03T18:07:00.009-04:00

Once upon a time there lived a lovely young maiden with great style and amazing hair. For the sake of this story we shall call her... M Garofalo... no, no...Marisa G. Anywho... oft times Marisa found herself driving aimless across the span of the vast city searching for fun and excitement in her silver Ford Focus. The theaters were full of good shows and she knew of many delectable places to get a bite to eat but these things didn't satisfy her restless soul for adventure.

One lovely spring day Marisa was conversing with her equally fashionable and lovely sisters

Arianne and Jessica (one through employment; the other by birth) and they made plans to set off to the east in search of fun and

frenzy. The three knew this would be a time of great friendship and bonding. And so together they hopped into Dundee, Jessica's reliable Chrysler Seabring (who's purchase was not inspired by but comically noted to be the same car driven by the best manager the paper industry ever did see... Dunder Mifflin's very own... Michael Scott) toward our nations 1st settlement. There they would visit a lovely Garden maintained by two brewers named

Anheuser and Busch. Now these beloved gardens were not new to these 3 fair maidens... for they had been there many times before. It was their desire to find their dear friends, the lovely nurse maid Layla and the Valiant Jason Lars of the Mill to share in these good times. Through previous communications they knew their comrades had made the trek earlier that day to fulfill their own needs for exhilaration/

Upon arrival into this beautiful land, they began to search far and wide for their dear friends.. they Giest through the Alpines, took a ride on the Chariot of Apollo, braved the woods where local legend tells The Big Bad Wolf has been seen, swung in

DiVinci's Cradle...even defied death as they rode on the Wings of the Griffon. Invigorated from their escapades the three ladies could not help but feel a little sad for the loss of kindred spirits. With courage the decided to soothe their souls the only way girls know how... though sweet treats and chocolate. As they headed though the magical streets past the great tower their eyes beheld a wondrous surprise... Layla and Jason. The 5 friends were reunited with much happiness and joy as they shared stories of their day. With the moon full above and the looming Griffon nearby they decided to brave the great crowds around him and challenged the beast to one last ride into the night sky. Together they found great strength in their conquering of the Griffon once again but knew it was time to head back to town and life as they knew it. They had been lifted and it was good. As they parted the lovely Gardens that night they knew they would never be the same for they were filled with great joy. They knew they must return soon. Together... and inviting all those who accepted their invitation. For each knew their otherwise dull lives were made better when filled with thrills and friendship.

THE END

this story was based on actual events that actually happened... no names have been changed to protect the innocent b/c frankly... that's how we roll.

OK Katie...I Shall Heed Your Tag

2008-04-27T23:52:00.002-04:00

I don't normally do these things but... why not.

Four Movies I Could Watch Over and Over Again:

1. Emma

2. Pride and Prejudice

3. Ocean's 11

4. Serendipity

Four Jobs I've Had:

1. A Nanny

2. VCE

3. Molly Maid

4. Diamond Moments

Four Places I've Lived:

1. BayShore NY

2. Midlothian, VA

3. Rexburg, ID

4. Richmond, VA

Four of My Favorite Dishes/Food:

1. Chicken Parmesan

2. Cheese especially lovin the goat cheese right now

3. Sushi

4. Chipotle Salads seem to be a craving as of late

Four TV Show's I Love:

1. The Hill's

2. Lost

3. The Office

4. American Idol

Four Sites I Visit Daily:

1. Gmail

2. IMDB

3. Google

4. Facebook

Four Places I Have Vacationed:

1. Las Vegas, NV

2. Disney World (Orlando FL)

3. Lake George, NY

4. Nashville, TN

Four Places I Would Rather Be Right Now:

1. In my bed... I guess I could be there if I wasn't too lazy to walk up the stairs

2. Laying on a beach in Hawaii

3. Italy

4. With a cute boy

Four Bloggers I am Tagging:

1. Claire

2. Natalie

3. Ryan

4. Koni

Rainy Days and Monday

2008-04-21T23:49:00.004-04:00

For those of you who don't live in VA you may not know that it has been raining for two days... and on this very Monday... this is the song that has been swirling around in my head.

Talking to myself and feeling old

Sometimes I'd like to quit

Nothing ever seems to fit

Hanging around, nothing to do but frown

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down

What I've got the used to call the blues

Nothing is really wrong

Feeling like I don't belong

Walking around some kinda lonely clown

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down

Funny but it seems I always wind up here with you

It's nice to know somebody loves me

Funny but it seems that it's the only thing to do

To run and find the one who loves me

What I feel is come and gone before

No need to talk it out

We know what it's all about

Hanging around, nothing to do but frown

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down

Funny but it seems that it's the only thing to do

Run and find the one who loves me

Hanging around nothing to do but frown

Rainy days and Mondays always get me down.

Text Messaging

2008-04-12T21:52:00.018-04:00

When clearing some old pictures from our camera, I discovered these photos and had to share them. I didn't realize anyone was paying attention as my cute little nephew was showing off his text messaging skills. A few of you may know how talented he is b/c you've been the recipient of a random "jjjjeeersdfserzxv.... josh...>:-)" text sent to you from my cell phone. I love that boy!

I love that face

Don't be confused... Josh is teaching me how to use my cell phone not the other way around.

Back to The Office

2008-04-01T18:02:00.003-04:00

Even though the writers strike has been over for a while now, I haven't really been able to reap any of the rewards of the settlement. Lost was already prepared to give us 8 episode and American Idol... well, Simon has never failed me with his witty judgements. April 10... the return of The Office... it's like a dream come true. Just a moment ago, my dearest sister shared this little tidbit she learned from officequotes.net... posted just today. Quoted directly from the site: just a quick note. When The Office returns next week, the episode ("Dinner Party") will be two and a half hours long. This is to catch up to the original schedule set by NBC Studios. Don't for get to set your DVR! Now if the Garofalo sisters can get their Tivo up and running... we'll be set!

Welcome To Moe's

2008-03-24T17:20:00.005-04:00

Last week was rough... not enough sleep made the 9-5 (or in my case 7-4:30) work day drag on with much pain and some near sleeping at my desk moment. I may had slept through a lunch break or two in my car at the park. Such was my plan on Friday... I had a piece of pizza in the fridge at work for my lunch and then off I was to the park where I would happily slumber. I cooked up this plan around 8:30 and could hardly wait until 12 to get my nap.

I don't know how or why but when the time came I was too excited to think of food and I jumped in the car, started the engine and off I went. Big mistake because no sooner had I pulled out of the parking lot my stomach spoke in a very clear manner that it was it's intention to eat and if I didn't provide some sort of sustenance it would turn on the other organs. I debated turning around but laziness dictated me to continue on to the nearest drive thru.

And that is when I saw it... a yellow and red sign that simply read: MOE'S. Could it be? Is it possible? Now, I am not gonna lie to you... I have been to Moe's Southwestern Grill before. It's OK food. Not my absolute favorite but for some reason, on this sunny Friday afternoon, nothing was more appealing (not even my most beloved nap) then a taco, some chips and salsa, and a sunny patio. Maybe it was simply the new lunch time food option, but as I sat eating my happy little lunch (all purchased at the low, low price of $3.39) I felt content. Silly as it may be, as I walked away, I couldn't help but turn around to get one last look at Moe's... and snap this picture.

Channeling a Higher Power

2008-03-01T00:43:00.003-05:00

I know, it's been a while... I will do better.

I have to admit an embarrassing little fact about me. Every morning upon arriving at work, before I do anything, I log into MSN and check my daily Horoscope. It's not that I really believe in all that Astronomy stuff (I know it is Astrology I was just trying to be funny), but for some reason I feel like I can't start the day without knowing what it says. EX. Today's horoscope say:

You might find it difficult to deal with people on an emotional level today, Marisa. You might find that others are too demanding of your attention, and that the want to keep the focus on themselves. At the same time you will probably need to get a bit more attention than usual. Try not to be so stubborn! Give people the love they need and you will find that the love you require will come to you as well.

I am stubborn and don't ya know I felt kinda needy today. I really struggled with wanting to call everyone I know, love and trust to complain and cry over my seemly pathetic little life. I desperately wished someone would give me the attention I felt I deserved. Then I wondered... I over-analyze everything, I know it's true, so am I over analyzing this? You know almost a self fulfilling prophesy. It has been a real effort today as I have tried to stop myself from doing it.

2007 was kind of a rough year for me. I really struggled with knowing who and where I wanted to be in my life. I let a lot of things control me. I let a lot of things that are important to me take a backseat to my own insecurities and frustrations. I became really complacent in my relationship with The Savior and with the church. I found myself neglecting my scripture study and prayers. The absence of those things left me lost, confused and really lonely. I felt stuck, paralyzed even. What I really wanted was someone to take over my life and make my decisions for me. It seemed too hard to do it myself. However, had someone stepped in and done so, I would have felt too prideful to relent power over my decisions and life path. I was pretty much stuck in a serious rut that I wasn't willing to help myself out of.

Funny, sometimes when you are least expecting it a voice of reason cuts through all of your confusion and gets you motivated to get on the right track. Without going in to details the lesson I learned (again) is The Lord loves us. He loves us so much that He will always provide us with the nourishment our souls need if we will but listen. Many times the things that are of most value to us can be found in the everyday activities that we are neglecting. Prayer, scripture study, fasting... even just fully participating in our church meetings and activities can be outlets for the will of the Father to be made known unto us. We need to open our ears and soften our hearts to know when he is speaking to us. I am thankful for that swift kick that helped me open my scriptures a little more and opening myself up to the Lord for comfort.

Obviously, I still have a ways to go since I deep in my subconscious I must be hoping that my daily ritual will provide me with some direction. Still, despite my little quirks, I find myself content with life. I am allowing myself to be happy. I am allowing myself to be myself. I see so many places to serve. So many ways I can be an influence for good. Talents to share and develop. I pray that I will continue on this forward journey of progression.

The Great Debate

2008-01-16T21:12:00.000-05:00

About 5 weeks ago I got a new hair cut and color (thanks Anna and Julie!!!) and since then I've had a great debate going on in my head... curly or straight? I guess I should consider myself lucky that I have the option of either/or and be satisfied with that. I'm not. It's more of a curiosity rather than a choice of one over the other. Regardless, I have been bouncing back and forth between the two a lot recently to figure out which one I like better. Straight hair is so much work. It means 20-30 minutes to blow dry and then taking a piping hot flat iron to it until it's bone straight. When I go curly it's super easy just wash, product it up (moose is my form of choice) and let it air dry. Seems easy but I never can tell how big it's gonna get. I run the risk of "big bar hair" as Jess and I call it. Since I can't make my own decision, I was just wondering what other people thought. So? Curly or straight? In the infamous word of Cher Horowitz (for you pop culturally challenged she is the main character in Clueless played by Alicia Silverstone. If you still don't know who she is... give me a call. I have a really important movie you need to watch... but I digress), "I don't rely mirrors, that's why I always take Polaroids." So using the handy dandy photo booth feature on my laptop, I submit two pictures for your consideration. What do you think? Please help me satisfy my vanity.

Last Year

2008-01-08T21:47:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I find myself trying to recall exactly what I was doing a week, a month, a year, a decade ago... I have to admit I can be fairly good at it. I think there will be an argument among those present (Eric, Joanna, Jess... just let me have this one OK) but I think at this very moment we were sitting with one very lively 3 year old and one very resilient 6 month old in the Magic Kingdom. Excitement filled the air as children and grown ups alike anxiously awaited the arrival of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, Aladdin, Donald, Daisy, Goofy... and of course Minnie and Mickey. They aren't lying when they say it's a Magical Place that Disney World.

A few of my favorite things

2007-12-29T02:29:00.000-05:00

The other night I was looking through some old journals and I came to an entry where I listed a bunch of my favorite things. Since then I have been revising that old list in my head and these are a few things I would like to share...

1. Dark chocolate. Currently I have been munching on a Green and Black's Mayan Gold bar Jessica brought home from her work Christmas gift exchange. It is heavenly.

2. I love the Fall! I love the cool crispness of the season. With fall comes some of my favorite things. I love Halloween, the beauty of the changing leaves, bonfires and apple picking. There is just something about the onset of October that brings a smile on my face.

3. Lost. I worry this silly writer's strike is going to ruin the

upcoming season of my favorite show. Things seem to be on track for at least 7 or 8 episodes to be aired this season. Not enough for me. In preparation Jessica and I have watched season 1 and 2 and are currently making our through season 3. It's a sickness... I know. I don't care.

4. I might be addicted to my cell phone. Shocker, I know. It is kinda embarrassing but I have a hard time being apart from it. It's not that I love my actual phone type... I just really like being able to be in contact with friends and family at any time. I am usually on it... either talking or texting. I am sorry to those of you who have to endure through it.

5. Sushi. This past year (thanks to Jon and Libbie) will be forever remembered as the year I became truly converted to sushi. Not only do I like eating it, I just enjoy the whole ritual of it. Add a little Gretel and I am a happy camper!!!

6. I love to make a good mixed CD. Currently I have one in my car that plays everything from Bread to Flyleaf. I find that I get stuck on certain artist... favorites are Keane, The Fall Out Boys, The Graham Colton Band, Journey and Dashboard Confessional.

7. Can I have 2 favorite TV shows? Well, The Office is more then a show... sometimes I really feel like I work at Dunder Mifflin with Michael, Jim, Dwight, Pam, Stanley and the rest of the crew. I am sure I am not alone. I think everyone who watches the show feels like they work with these people.

8. Flowers. I love flowers. I love tulips, roses, lilies... all kinds. I love getting flowers. I don't know why something that's is ultimately temporary can bring me such joy. I especially like it when someone sends/brings me flowers. Sigh! I just love it!

9. Fierce. Yummy. I don't know why more boys don't wear this stuff b/c it is good. I sure do thank the people at Abercrombie & Fitch for allowing that smell to waifed through their stores. I don't really like their clothes but it gets me in the doors.

10. Rain. I love the way it smells right before it's gonna rain. I love to walk and play and to dance in the rain. I also like thunderstorms. Sometimes I find myself watching them from the window. There is something almost peaceful about them for me. Is that strange?

That's all for now.

I am really a blogger?

2007-12-22T13:12:00.000-05:00

I don't know, but we're sure gonna find out aren't we?!?! I have to admit I have been fighting the urge for a while now, simply b/c I am not sure I want my life nationally broadcast for the masses to see, read and mock. Yet, I woke up this morning and just did it. So, I beg you, my dear friends to be kind to your little Italian friend, and love her despite the dramatics.