Got 2B Healthy.

"It Gets Better"

2010-10-19T09:59:00.005-07:00

Please watch this and tell me what you think.

This is one of the most heart wrenching things I have ever watched. My heart really goes out to all of the families who have dealt with these losses. I can't believe this is happening. Worst of all, every one of these cases happened within the last month and a half. Could we have done more to prevent this? We can't let this happen anymore. If anyone knows of some kind of organization that is fighting against bullying in schools, please let me know. We need to get involved.

Man Up! Newsweek 9/27/10

2010-10-04T15:49:00.019-07:00

One of the things that I have become especially interested in my graduate work is social and mental health, especially relating to men's health and their relationships with their families. Last week, Newsweek magazine released one of the best articles on the development of the father and modern man that I have ever read. While the article addresses many aspects of "manliness" in modern society, it mainly tries to explain "why it's time to reimagine masculinity at work and at home". Today, society is calling for a change in manhood.

Studies have shown that through the economic crisis, the "macho" industries (manufacturing, construction, engineering) have been the ones hit the hardest. There is mass unemployment and underemployment in our country because of it, but nearly 6% more for men than for women. But what are men doing about it? Sadly, many are sticking to the "macho" jobs and idling in unemployment while their wives find jobs to provide for the family in fields that are growing (nursing, education--"feminine" industries). And do you know what's even more shocking? Beyond career paths, men are failing at home even more. Studies prove that women still spend 4 times as much time with their kids even while working full-time than do their husbands, even if unemployed. Obviously, its time for men to find their place in society, but in an entirely new way

But in what way? How can men be, essentially, better men? As noted, above all other areas, before employment, education, or social standards, men first and foremost need to become better fathers. As one scholar criticizes, the "handy thing about being a father is that the historic standard is so pitifully low". Up to now, being a father in all reality has meant assuming the role of breadwinner and protector, with little to do at home. But what about all of the rest? What about the social, psychological, mental (and the list can go on and on) aspects of development in which children need a true role model? Is it enough to have a dad put bread on the table if his children feel emotionally neglected?

The answer is NO. No, its not enough. What society needs, and is asking for today is a shift away from the image of manhood of our nation's past to a new, modern vision of the virtue and strength that men can lend to their families. "Simply put", as the article states, "men are expected to work less and father more." How do you do that, though? Men are stressed out to the limit trying to provide and now they're being told to work less? However, its not about working less, per se, but its actually about working more, AT HOME. "Men have a choice: either feel inadequate or get a lot more creative".

"Ultimately, the New Macho boils down to a simple principle: in a changing world, men should do whatever it takes to contribute their fair share at home and at work, and schools, policymakers, and employers should do whatever they can to help them. After all, what's more masculine: being a strong, silent...absentee father, or actually fulfilling your half of the bargain as a breadwinner and a dad."

Books Read: 2010 (so far...)

2010-10-01T16:10:00.010-07:00

Chris Heimerdinger

Gadianton and the Silver Sword
The Sacred Quest
The Lost Scrolls
The Golden Crown

Jeff Kinney

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Dan Brown

The Lost Symbol

Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner

A Thousand Splendid Suns

Carlos Ruiz Zafon

El Palacio de la Medianoche

John Grisham

The Firm

A Time to Kill

El Socio

The Runaway Jury

The Testament

Kate DiCamillo

The Tale of Desperaux

J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter y el Misterio del Principe

Harry Potter and the Deathly Gallows

Julia Alvarez

How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accent

Suzanne Collins

Hunger Games

Catching Fire

Marteen Troost

The Sex Lives of Cannibals

The Book of Mormon

An Awesome Date

2009-10-26T09:50:00.003-07:00

This Saturday I took a great girl named Tasha to see Frankenstein: The Play with one of my best friends, Bailee Brinkerhoff, and her friends. It was showing for the first time in Provo City Theater and it was a hit! There was blood, real gunshots, and intense action! No seriously, we were freaking out! It was great. I had never been to a scary play before, and I think it truly had one-up on the movies--I mean we were actually there and it felt like the monster would come after us any second! AMAZING! Two thumbs up! Then, Tasha and I (I met Tasha in my GRE Prep class. She's super pretty and way fun...I'll have to see how things go!) went to Starbucks to chat and sip on spicy apple cider. It was a great night! This weekend we have a date to go see Sweeney Todd at the Castle Theater. I'll keep you posted!

Time to Get Back on Schedule

2009-10-24T11:00:00.001-07:00

If you haven't noticed, I haven't updated my blog in quite a while. (If you have noticed, you're probably family; if you haven't, you probably just don't care). But, hey I am going to take a stab at this again. So, just making a few face lifts etc., and their should be new posts to come. Wait and see!

USNS Comfort: Continuing Promise 2009

2009-07-15T17:24:00.001-07:00

The Last Two Weeks...

2009-06-11T20:42:00.006-07:00

So, this how blog thing comes in steps: one week I put up the pictures and the next I write about them! I'm trying my best, I'm sorry. (Ok, basically only two people read this anyway, Donnie and Sarah, so I guess only you guys need to bear with me!) So, let me think about this....I think it was 3 weeks ago??? Well, anyways, it was Mother's Day weekend here in Nicaragua (not the same date as in the U.S.) so we had some great activities to go to. First, we went to the Nacional Ruben Dario Theatre for a ballet performance of folklore music with the Aviles family. It was so neat and really so beautiful!
Afterwards, (of course!) we went dancing at the Mirador. Remember the pictures of the lake looking over Managua? Well this is a small bar/restaurant that sits right on the lake where we went to go dance. We were sweating so much with the humidity...just so you know, my shirt WAS super light blue but...ya know.
Then Monday, Jordan and I headed out with some friends of ours to la Laguna de Apoyo. Again, remember the pictures of the beautiful lake as seen from Catarina? Well, this time we headed on down and went swimming for the afternoon. It was so much fun but the hike was gruesome!
When we finally made it to the bottom, we were whooped and we had no idea how we were going to hike out--it was super steep and slippery from the rain. Well, we found this guy spending the day with his family at the bottom who was cool enough to give us a ride out! It was a lifesaver!Then last weekend, we headed out with the kids from Institute to the Mombacho Volcano National Park! It reminded me so much of the jungle hikes I took with my family in Bolivia (well, not quite, obviously!) but it was super fun. We hung out all day with the Chavarria kids who we just love so much. Oliver is now like my little brother and I'm helping him get ready for his mission while he gives me advice about marriage! I love that kid.

One Fun Weekend: Pool Hopping, Granada, and the Mirador

2009-05-30T10:30:00.008-07:00

Well, I posted these pictures but I had to go so I didn't have time to write anything yet. However, I got 3 comments without having written any words! I guess that's a hint that I need to put a lot less words and a lot more pictures. However, this is also my journal, so sorry folks. Well, the crazy weekend (which was actually the weekend before last weekend! Ah! Time flys too fast!) started with pool hopping at the Holiday Inn. Jordan and I were walking home from Institute Saturday morning when we saw the hotel. It was already hot and we were sweating a ton so we decided to go see if they had a pool...Lo and behold, they do! I now go everyday to except the humid heat. It's my relaxing place! (Oh, and that's Igor--he works at the center too and is now one of our best friends. He's going on a mission soon! Woo hoo!)This Sister and Roxana Aviles, the wife and daughter of our center's manager. They are such great people and we've also come to love their family a ton. Well, they along with the three other kids (Jill, Fofo (Rodolfo), and Alex) invited us to make a trip to Granada, the historic colonial city unique to Nicaragua. It was beautiful! The city itself reminded me in part of Sucre because of all the colonial architecture and what not. It's way traditional and super clean too (which my mom would love!). Not to mention, I think this is one of my favorite cathedrals of all! It was awesome.
Also, Granada is found right on the shores of Lake Nicaragua (just one place behind Lake Titicaca, Bolivia as one of the largest lakes in the world!). This lake is known for having freshwater sharks (yes, sharks!) that swam into the riversystem and over thousands of years adapted to freshwater and of course its beautiful islands that dot it's coasts. So we decided to jump in a little boat and take to the waters! It was such a great day and it was great to lean over the boat and stick our feet in the water. Thanks Aviles Family!
This is Vigoron--a traditional Nicaraguan plate consisting of chicharron (fried pork--kind of like pork rines), yuca/cassava, cabbage, tomato, banana peppers, and lots and lots of vinegar dressing. Again, I think my mom would love it! And that is a drink made from cacao--the principle and original ingredient of chocolate! SUPER YUMMY!
Then, the next day, we had to travel again with Nelson but first we had an appointment with a stake center here in Managua. However, the meeting got cancelled so Nelson decided to take us to a few more tourist sites here in Managua, so we headed up to the Mirador (The Outlook). This is a statue built a long time ago in memory of Theodore Roosevelt (crazy, huh?).
And this, is another natural, volcanic lake found in the center of Managua itself. In the distance you can even see the main business and tourist district of the capital. It was such an awesome place to truly get a few of the entire city.

La familia Chavarria

2009-05-28T08:18:00.005-07:00

This post is especially for a special family that we have come to love here in Nicaragua--La familia Chavarria. Since our first weekend here, we have been welcomed into their home and they have treated us like princes. We've gone to church with them, we've had FHE's and talent shows at their house, we've traveled with them and we've ate dinner countless times in their home (Gallopinto (rice and beans) is always a for sure food in their home! Yum!). I wanted to post this out of my love and gratitude for them. The parents are great and wondeful people; Aracely, Silma, and Keilin are such sweet girls and Oliver is such a cool kid. Familia Chavarria--les quiero mucho. Gracias por todo lo que han hecho por mi. Verdaderamente viven el evangelio en su casa y les agradezco por su amor y espiritu. Siento en casa cuando estoy con ustedes. Gracias.Not to mention their great neighbors who have also shared their kindness and love with us. The two sisters live next door and Yovanni is from the ward. Them with the Chavarria family have creaed a warm home for us here so far away from our families. They are such good people that I have already come to care for so much. Les quiero por siempre!

Workshops No. 1-4

2009-05-25T16:10:00.009-07:00

Let me tell you that teaching here for the employment center has been such a wonderful experience; we have had a blast! Already, we have personally taught 39 people the workshop! It's a workshop of 12 hours and we teach it 2 times a week, once Tuesday and Wednesday and the other Thursday and Friday. We use to teach it once a week but we hardly had the ability to teach on a personal level so we divided it into two so the groups would be smaller and more productive. Below is a picture of the manual we teach from. It is full of ideas of how someone can maximize their potential and their skills to make something of themselves in the work force. The entire center, program, and workshop are inspired of God. As part of the workshop, we teach that the search for employment is in-and-of itself a full-time job. We are helping these people change their lives and their hopes for more. It is wonderful.Group No. 1 (May 12-13)
We only sat in on the first workshop, so this is truly our first group--our very own! This has been our biggest group and is was such a good one! The 5 guys on the right, if you couldn't tell are returned missionaries! Every month, we will have a workshop with a group of missionaries returning home. Upon arriving in their home countries, missionaries returning from missions in Central America have to take the Career Workshop; some of them were from Managua and yet they couldn't even see their families until they finished the workshop! As bad as it sounds, it is actually an awesome resource so missionaries returning home will be completely aware of the help the church will provide them in the career pursuits and in their education through the Perpetual Education Fund. It was so fun to have them. They brought a special spirit to the workshop. Just to let you guys know, Nicaraguans aren't patient at all when it comes to get married after their missions. This guy right here is a good friend of ours named Rigoberto. Within a month 3 months after his mission, he met and married the girl of his dreams and just after a month of being married, she's pregnant! When we asked him why the rush, he simply said: "The Lord's work must go on!"Group No. 2 (May 14-15)
This group was tiny because this was the first time the workshop had ever been taught on a Thursday and very few people knew about it. Despite that, they were hard workers and they learned so much. The guy on the far right, Mauricio, now comes to the workshop every morning looking for job listings and then heads out in the afternoon for interviews the rest of the day. Even while he's in the center, he always comes and offers us help with the workshop's activities. And guess what the best part is...he has a testimony of this whole work and isn't even a member! (Don't worry, we sent the missionaries his address already!)Group No. 3 (May 19-20)
This was a great group too--probably our most united. They were all so supportive of each other and truly motivated each others success. They were lively and super fun. They almost could have taught the workshop themselves, they were just flowing with ideas.This was one of the missionaries who attended our workshop the week before--yet not as a missionary this time! He come's to the center several times since he returned and is always offering service and help in the center. He's doing great and is going to find employment in no time, just for his dedication and willingness to keep serving. Hopefully, he will be one of our great success stories (what am I talking about, he already is!).Group 4 (May 21-22)
This was probably our hardest group. They were really discouraged and hardly wanted to participate. However, they came out strong and successfully completed the course! I was so proud of all of them. I wish them the best. Look, they're even smiling at the end!

Sunday Trips and Travels

2009-05-21T16:57:00.006-07:00

Ok, so I'm behind again a bit. I was just reviewing my pictures when I realized that my last post of our trip to the volcanoes and stuff was on the 9th of May--almost 2 weeks ago! Time is flying by so fast. It's been nearly 3 weeks since we arrived and May is almost over. After that, we only have June and July to go and then I'm off to Bolivia. Ahh! I'm doing my homework but it looks like I need to buckle down just a bit more and get it done!

This post will probably be repeated do to the fact that every Sunday, Nelson Eddy, the junior manager of the CRE (Centro de Recursos de Empleo) takes Jordan and I on visits throughout the country to visit different stakes and districts. While we are there, we meet with the leaders (stake pres., bishops, elder's quorum presidents, employment service specialists, etc.) to give a little training meeting of what their responsability is in the priesthood to help their ward/branch members become self-sufficient and successful in their employment. Since we started, we have visited the Districts of Carazo (Jinotepe and San Marcos) (May 10) and Tipitapa (May 17). This weekend, we are going to Granada and Masaya, as well as several stakes here in Managua. Here are a few pictures of us in the plaza principal of Jinotepe:After that, we headed back to Managua but decided to make a little detour around the city, so we headed up to the Cathedral Santo Domingo, a beautiful Catholic church found way up in the hills looking out over Managua and the lake. It was beautiful. We're going to go back and attend mass (homework assingment!) and so maybe I'll have more pictures of the chapel during the day.

The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes

2009-05-15T18:55:00.010-07:00

On Friday, Jordan and I were walking home from the workshop when we spotted this little restaurant. Lo and behold, it's a wrap shop! (For those of you who don't know, I worked at L&T, a wrap shop on campus at BYU-- they're still holding my job for me! WOO HOO!) Anyways, I got the Pica-pica wrap (super spicy but really good) and Jordan got the Ceasar. I give Ciabattas a round of applause--best salad/wraps I've ever had in Latin America!On Saturday morning, we got up and went to institute...at 6:00 am!!! Here for all of Managua (4 stakes) all the YSA get together on just Saturday morning for institute. I think it sucks that the youth can only go once a week and to only one class here-- and who whoever chose 6:00 am as a starting time is crazy!--but that's just the way it is. If you guys remember, I mentioned in an earlier blog that we met two sisters in a workshop that became our friends. Well, on the left is Aracely(24) and on the right is Selma (20), and that's their brother Oliver (18). (Their youngest sister, Kaitlin (17), is not in the picture but you'll seen her in others further down). They have become our best friends here (we have FHE in their house, we eat dinner over there, their parents love us and talk to us until late at night, and tonight we're going dancing!). After the workshop, they invited us to go to a nearby town with them after institute on Saturday. That's where the adventure began!So, we hopped into their car and headed to the town of Masaya, about an hour outside of Managua. But first, we had to stop by el Volcan Masaya (The Volcanoe of Masaya) first! This was my first up-close volcanoe! It was so beautiful! You would think everything around it would be burnt but as the landscape shot shows, ashes actually make a great fertilizer and make volcanic regions some of the most fertile (think Phillipines, Hawaii, and Central America). Look how huge and how hot!When the Spaniards first arrived to Nicaragua back in the 1500's, they found this volcanoe. Upon arrival, the priests knelt down and began to pray to their god as the conquistadores began to shot prayers from the Bible. They were so shocked by the immense heat and size of the volcanoe (something they had never seen before) and thought that it must be the gateway to Hell. So, they built this cross to fend off the demons that would come out with the rising of the lava and ash. Cool, huh!
After the volcanoe, we headed to Masaya, this great little artesan town built on colonial ruins. It had a ton of little markets and some cool crafts. We spend the morning there roaming the market and eating lunch.
After leaving Masaya, we headed even further to a little town called Catarina. The girls didn't tell us anything about where we were going but as we climbed out of the car and walked through the buildings blocking our view, we saw one of the most amazing views I have ever seen! An ancient volcanoe that died thousands of years ago has slowly become eroded and lowered by nature. However, the sealed volcanic hole created a perfect bowl for fresh, clear rainwater to collect and form a beautiful highland lake! It was so cool and their were tons of people and musicians that played in the tropical paradise.

The volcanoe began to get upset in the distance--it was amazing!And this is honestly the best picture yet! Jordan got a little sunburned being out by the volcanoes and lakes all day and well...this explains it all! Hahahaha!

Angeles y Demonios

2009-05-14T21:17:00.007-07:00

I know I should continue trying to catch up on my day to day activities but I have to take a break and talk about Angels and Demons that I saw tonight. IT WAS AWESOME! Seriously, I loved it so much. I thought it did so much justice to the book. So many movies of that type right now are so dark (Dark Knight, James Bond, Wolverine) but I felt that although this one told a dark story, there were still funny moments, and tons of history inserts that I loved. Not to mention, it really portrayed the Catholic church in a different light than I had ever seen before. The Catholic church isn't perfect, nor are it's leaders, but they do have hope to do good in the world. I really thought the movie did an awesome job at portraying that, as well as such an amazing adventure. That movie wins a place on Justin's Top 10 movies of all time list! Everyone has to go see it. It was incredible!

Our First Workshop

2009-05-10T11:56:00.007-07:00

Last Tuesday and Wednesday, we had our first workshop at the center! Nelson Eddy taught the workshop but we of course helped and gave our input. It was a great time to learn a little about how Nicaraguans tend to learn and even a little about their culture. Nicaraguans are very good writers and often are not shy to share what they think or have learned. It was a great group! The twos girls on the far right are sisters and also have become some of our good friends! Stayed tuned for next time...

Afterward, we went and ate lunch from a little pension nearby. It was great food and we were able to become friends with the cook and her husband. (This is liver, by the way, one of my favorite meats. Next to it are red beans, the most common bean in Nicaragua. De hecho, Nicaragua is known for its red beans and boy are they delicious!)

First Day on the Job

2009-05-07T12:01:00.012-07:00

Well, Monday we woke up and began our first day of work in the Employment Resource Center. However, before we left the house I took the opportunity to take a few more pictures:

(Tell me that this isn't one of the cutest kids you've ever seen! His name is Benjamin. He's our little neighbor--he's a little grouchy though! That's him above and his pet birdie below.)

Well, we finally found our way to the center which is about a 5 minute drive or a 15-20 minute walk from our house (not bad since McDonald's is on the way!) The center is in this building but the mission offices, the church offices, the church distribution center, and the PEF offices are in the building next door.

(This is Nelson Eddy (and yes, you have to call him by both names). He's so funny and tells the best jokes.
(This is our new friend Eric. He took us out to the markets and to go eat some great local food on Tuesday. You might not believe it but he's acutally 29 years old and is getting married in August! I wish we aged like that!)
(And simply a beautiful view of the city from the Center.)

The New Pad in Bolonia

2009-05-05T18:50:00.010-07:00

So, I thought that today I would show you guys a little bit of what our new apartment is like. I know, I know, I'm running behind but I thought that eventually you guys would get bored of the same things every day so staying a day or two behind until that day arrived will be good for you. Well, as the title says we live in a place called Bolonia--I know, funny huh?! It's considered to be an upper-middle class area of Managua and it kind of reflects that but to me it's super pretty and reminiscent of my old Bolivian home (the neighborhood that is). The house is by far way better than my mission ever was--we have hot water, a MICROWAVE, cable internet and television, and our own bedrooms that EACH have an air conditioning unit--HOLY CRAP! It's not much to see but the pictures have a thousand words. Oh, and by the way, in one of the pictures, yes, my pants are hanging in the living room but its only so that maybe the humidity will take the wrinkles out--it is 96 degrees with like 100% humidity to add to it! VIVA NICARAGUA!

(Who cares how hot it is, I'm from Arizona and will always sleep with a blanket!)

(Yes, the showers heads are the same as in Bolivia...Genius right? To stick electric coils in a plastic case ABOVE YOUR HEAD to heat up the water as it passes over them! IT'S ELEMENTARY WATSON!

(But hey, here's an added bonus--American outlets!)

The Plane Flight

2009-05-04T21:12:00.004-07:00

Jordan left Friday night (or should I say Saturday morning) at 1 am for Atlanta. I didn't leave until 8 that same morning so it gave Jordan an opportunity to be with his family before we headed to Nicaragua. Well, I said 8 am for my flight right? Well, I was wrong. My plane didn't leave until 8:40 but I was already there by 6 am so I decided that I would find a nice place to sleep and I conked out, being without sleep for the last few weeks. I don't know how I did it but I woke up at 8:37 and ran to the gate just before they shut the doors! I was still exhausted though but I found an entire row for myself and laid down and went to bed--it was a great flight! Finally, at 5 pm I met up with Jordan in the Atlanta Airport. We also met this cool guy named Jeff from New York. His mom is Dominican and his dad Puerto Rican-Cuban but his dad is currently in Nicaragua. So, Jeff was on his way to visit his dad to go on expeditions to all the great Nicaraguan beaches. Looks like we found ourselves a friend in Nicaragua! In the end though, we got here safe and sound but exhausted. Pedro Aviles, the manager of the center picked us up at the airport and took us to eat--we were starving! We went to none other than McDonalds--ok, I know, totally anti-climatic but it's ok, we were so hungry. Really though, it was just a long day of traveling. From there I'll continue tomorrow and trust me it will be alot better!

Week #1: The ERS Training in SLC

2009-05-03T15:11:00.012-07:00

This week I began my internship for LDS Employment Resource Services! I checked into a hotel in SLC last Sunday and began my training. It was such an amazing experience. As part of my internship, my companion Jordan and I will be teaching the Career Workshops to people in search of employment, education, and self employment in Nicaragua. That's what our training was: learning how to teach the workshop that encourages the development of skills, education, determination, and success in seeking employment opportunities. However, many people ask: Even if you help people develop their skills and their abilities, are there really any jobs for them out there? The answer is: YES! In the scriptures, the Lord has promised his children that there will always be enough and to spare if they remain loyal to Him and His commandments and live righteously. I firmly believe that with all of my heart. That's why I am here! I will be teaching members and non-members alike how they have the inherent potential to become what they dream of being but they must do their part and work for it. Here are a few pictures from this last weeks adventure and training:

(On a tour through Welfare Square in SLC; the previous picture is Welfare Square)

(My companion Jordan Woods (from Atlanta, GA) and I on the 26th floor of the Church Office Building)

(After our "graduation" ceremony--I'm now a certified employment specialist (kind of!))

And what's the point of wearing a suit if you don't take a few GQ pictures to show of your "skills"! Here's Aaron and Paul, interns heading to Brazil:

Nicaragua--SUMMER 2009!

2009-03-19T20:21:00.014-07:00

If you remember, I announced a few months back that I was accepted to go on an internship for LDS Employment Services. But just a few weeks ago I found out that instead of going to Costa Rica, like we had thought, I will be in Nicaragua from May-July of this summer!!! I am so excited to help the Nicaraguan people and I'm definitely pumped to get back to Latin America. I will keep you all up to date week by week while I am there, and before I go I will explain what kind of things I will be doing for the church; but for now, I just wanted to give you guys just a little trailer of what Nicaragua has to offer:

NEED I SAY MORE? Nicaragua, HERE I COME!!!

He Finally Sees His Son Again

2009-02-12T12:12:00.005-07:00

I read this article today on MSNBC.com and it just broke my heart. If you don't like to read, check out the link at the bottom:

After bitter 4-year fight, he finally sees his son again
Dad has ‘beautiful’ reunion with boy whose mother abducted him to Brazil

By Mike Celizic
TODAYShow.com contributor
updated 8:41 a.m. MT, Tues., Feb. 10, 2009

Choking back tears that had been building up for more than four and a half years, a New Jersey father tried to describe the emotions he felt at finally being able to hold and hug his son and tell the boy how much he loved him.

“It was the most beautiful thing I’ve seen since his birth. It was incredible. Amazing. I got to see my son,” David Goldman told TODAY’s Meredith Vieira Tuesday by phone from Brazil.

The previous day, accompanied by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, Goldman had finally reached the end of a nightmare that began in June 2004 when his wife, Bruna, left with their son, Sean, for a two-week trip to visit family in her native Brazil. She never came back.
In all the years since, Goldman had traveled to Brazil numerous times hoping to see his son, but all the contact he was allowed to have consisted of a few brief phone calls.

International dispute
A New Jersey court ruled that Bruna had to return Sean to New Jersey for a custody hearing. But despite international law and treaties between the United States and Brazil that upheld the court ruling, Bruna refused to either return or to give up custody of the boy. Instead, she divorced Goldman in a legal proceeding that violated international law, and married an influential Brazilian attorney.

Then, last August, Bruna died while giving birth to a child by her new husband. After her death, that husband petitioned a Brazilian court to take Goldman’s name off his own son’s birth certificate.

Although the system seemed stacked against him, Goldman never gave up. Finally, with the help of Smith, the New Jersey congressman who accompanied Goldman to Brazil, father and son were reunited for a visit on Monday.

“After all this time I got to see him, walk over to him and hug him and tell him how much I love him and how much I miss him and how joyful it was to be with him,” Goldman said.

‘It was beautiful’
He had no idea if Sean would really remember him and how he would greet him, Goldman said.

“I was expecting the worst. And when our arms locked, it wasn’t that way at all. It was beautiful,” he told Vieira, fighting back tears the entire time he spoke.

Sean asked his dad why it took so long to visit him. “That was very painful,” Goldman said. “I saw the anguish on his face.”

What to tell the boy? Goldman was understandably reluctant to tell Sean how his mother first left him and then refused to let him see Sean.

“I didn’t want to hurt him by telling him the absolute truth, so I just said that the courts were making things very difficult,” Goldman said. “I said, ‘Sean, I’ve been here many, many times to try to be with you. The last time I was here I stayed for 10 days and I couldn’t be with you.’ ”

Smith told The Associated Press that Goldman shot baskets and went swimming with Sean during Monday’s visit. Goldman was scheduled to see his son again on Tuesday.

Vieira asked what plans he had for today’s visit.

“I’ll do whatever I can with him. It depends on what kind of restrictions there are,” Goldman replied.

‘It’s going to happen’
In a later interview with TODAY correspondent Amy Robach, NBC senior legal analyst Susan Filan said that Goldman should eventually regain custody of his son, whose room in Goldman’s Tinton Falls, N.J., home remains as it was the day he left for Brazil with his mother more than four years ago. Filan said that international law and treaties between the United States and Brazil are unequivocal in affirming Goldman’s parental rights.

“You can’t take a kid from one country and hide him another country and say it’s OK,” Filan said. “There’s no question this case should have been decided in a New Jersey court.”

Filan said she’s looked at the facts from every angle and can conceive of no legal justification or explanation for how the Brazilian courts have acted. According to every law, she said, the man who married Goldman’s wife “has no legal rights to this child whatsoever.”

She added that the change of administrations in Washington and the personal involvement of Rep. Smith have clearly helped Goldman press his case. Public attention given the case should embarrass the Brazilian government into bowing to the dictates of the law, she said.

“Once one government accuses another government of being in violation of a treaty, it’s embarrassing,” she said.

Filan cautioned that it may still take time for Sean to finally come home to live with his father.

“I don’t think it’s going to be as quick as everybody wants, but I think ultimately it’s going to happen,” she said.

The video: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/29117722/?GT1=43001

F.Y.E.: The Greatest Store on Earth!

2009-02-03T20:13:00.007-07:00

Tonight is Tuesday and in my friends apartment, that means official MOVIE NIGHT! Oooooh! Well, my friend and I were trying to find great movies to select from for the occasion when we remembered FYE, the discount movie and music place! We ran in to just find one movie (Sleepover, a really girly but hilarious movie of a bunch of junior high girls on a late night scavenger hunt to win the boy of their dreams!) and we ended up spending over a hour and a half picking out some others for my new, and official, movie collection! Wut woo! For just $16.00 I got four GREAT used DVD's, in mint condition I might add, for the next months worth of movie night. The four I bought are some of my favorite movies ever and they're great--I recommend them all! I have now made a vow to buy at least a movie a week at that price to have a collection one day to share with my kids. "You watched DVD's dad?!! You're OOOOLD!"

(Mom, this one is for me and you! SUMMER 2004--For some reason I was on this kick of "PG" movies only and this was LITERALLY the only one that came out all summer long. I begged Mom to go with me and when we got there, the theater was filled with 6 year old girls and their mothers! However, who laughed the hardest the whole time...my mom and I! We loved it so much we went home and told Sarah what she had missed out on and we finally convinced her to go see it and boy did she laugh too! I think she might even have this one in her collection.)

(Every time I go to our condo, I just have to pop it in, I don't know why! And not to mention, have you noticed how hot Emmy Rossum ("Phantom of the Opera") was in this debut! SMOKIN'!)

(Sarah, this takes us back! Side Note: Sarah is Claire Danes biggest secret fan, after her "Romeo and Juliet" obsession began with Amber LeBaron!)

(Not to mention this one Sarah! I think we almost peed the first time we saw this, especially over the Australian model who had the bandages from different cosmetic surgeries in each scene! CLASSIC!)

I honestly just can't wait to watch them again! I'm taking them down to AZ and watching them all with my fam! It'll be great!

The Mandra Test: A Tibetan Personality Test

2009-01-14T17:47:00.004-07:00

Well, just like the rest of you, I hate spam mail! But hey, sometimes it actually is fun though! The other day I got an email with a link to the MANDRA TEST! Oooooh! Well, I took it and I thought it was kind of neat. Belows the link to do it yourself and my results are listed below. Have fun!

http://memoriter.net/flash/test.html

1) Put the following 5 animals in the order of your preference:
Cow, Tiger, Sheep, Horse, Pig

2)Write one word that describes each one of the following:
Dog, Cat, Rat, Coffee, Sea

3)Think of someone, who also knows you and is important to you, which you can relate them to the following colors. Do not repeat your answer twice.
Yellow, Orange, Red, White, Green

4)Finally, write down your favorite number, and your favorite day of the week.

Now, I'm not going to tell you guys the key to understanding the clues, but I will tell you my personal answers:

1)The priorities of my life: Pride, Family, Career, Love, Money

2) Descriptions:
My enemies personality: Sneaky
My own personality: Lovable
My partner's personality: Dangerous
My life: Beautiful
My sex: NOT TELLING!

3)Someone...
Who I will remember for the rest of my life: Chance
Who I really love: Mom
I'll never forget: Donnie
Who is my true friend: Sarah
Who is my twin soul: Dad

4) Well, if I told you it would ruin the game!

El Latino: The U.S.'s Major Minority

2009-01-05T17:29:00.014-07:00

I got back on Saturday from Arizona around 5 p.m. and my buddy KC Kern was visiting from San Francisco. We decided to go out to eat and stuff before we had to go to a freshman reunion at 9. So, we finished eating at around 7 and we thought, "hey, the dollar theater is right here, let's go see what's playing". Well, lo and behold there was nothing good on but...Beverly Hills Chihuahua! Well, KC and I thought, "for a buck-fifty, why not?" Now, let me tell you, it was one of the most stupid movies I have ever seen in my life!!! Ok, I'll be honest, it was so dumb that I loved it! Half the movie was in Spanish and the other half was in Spanglish and I got to laugh along with all the Mexican parents and their kids! However, the funniest part was that 95% of the people in the audience (including KC) had no idea what was so funny because they didn't have a clue what they were saying!!

I have to tell you all, I can't believe, and this movie is proof, the major mixture of cultures found in places such as Cali, AZ, Texas and others of the White and Latin communities. I LOVE IT! While in Phoenix, I listened non-stop to 95.1 Latino Vibe. It is honestly the greatest radio station! Not only do they play the hottest songs in English and Spanish but the DJ's speak in Spanglish the whole time. I was having a blast while I heard the Dj say "Esa party fue tan cool!" HAHA! I LOVE IT! And did you guys know that Beyoncé and Chris Brown songs play on that station...in SPANISH! (And they're the ones singing!)Could a major, and I mean MAJOR, cultural revolution be taking place within the United States? Of course it is! I really believe that one day Spanglish could emerge as a true language one day, just as English was born once. The southwest will be dominated by a culture where not only English or only Spanish can be spoken but both if anyone is to understand anything at all. Look at Puerto Rico...it already is that way! Things are changing and it's kind of awesome. I can't wait to see what Arizona will be like for my kids.

Did you know that declaring an official language is not a right of the Federal Government over the states but rather that of a state itself? However, despite what many believe, not all 50 states have declared English as their official language. Of course not! Many have denied to declare an official language because of the political implications it could have towards its very ethnically diverse populations. As a matter of fact, New Mexico in 1989, as part of the "English Plus" movement, declared 2 official languages, Spanish and English, since over 30% of its population speaks Spanish. However, some states like California, Arizona, and Florida have declared English as their official language as part of the "English-only" movement because of the financial obligations it would create to provide a bilingual environment in all public areas. Whatever side you join (and I'm sure you could imagine where I stand) it will be incredible to see what will occur over the next decade as the Latin population continues to grow from its current extent of 44 million people in the US. It's gonna occur, so just face it. Looks like we should have all paid attention in Spanish classes after all!

Oh, and just another small fact for you all: Did you know that the U.S. has the 2nd largest Hispanic population in the world, beating 18 LATIN American countries?!

1. Mexico: 106,682,500
2. U.S: 44 million
3. Colombia: 42,888,592.

Estas listo amigo por el cambio?

2009-01-05T17:25:00.000-07:00

Oh, I totally forgot about telling the story of our ride down for the holidays...COMING SOON! (When Justin has time!)

New Year's Eve

2009-01-05T17:15:00.004-07:00

Ok, so I think I'm getting worse at this blog thing. (But hey, I think that's what I write as the first few lines when I write in my journal every few months too!) I haven't posted anything about Christmas or anything, but hey, you have the links to my sisters' blogs and they explained it all pretty well. However, I spent New Years with my friends from Bolivia, Nina and Tati, at Polar Ice skating rink in Chandler, where the YSA Party was held this year by the Mesa Institute. It was really fun. But, neither Nina or Tati knew how to ice skate, and ooooh you should see the bruises on their knees (pictures to be posted soon!). Not much else happened but it was really fun hanging out with some of my best friends from high school too: Kalie Farr, Jenna Stradling, and Brian Pearce. It was great catching up on old times. HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

Reaching Out for a Good Cause This Christmas

2008-12-17T19:41:00.004-07:00

I just got this email from one of my friends this morning here from BYU. This guy was one of the greatest guys. He is just one of those nice guys who wants to make everyone happy, but I never imagined what he was going through. This is what he sent to our class:

Hey guys,

Thanks for the awesome semester it was good working with you. I learned a lot from everybody, especially during our sweet review sessions. I’m passionate about this whole MUN thing because international development is my minor and the field of my future career. I think the UN plays a significant role in getting the entire international community to participate in the fight against poverty. My wife is from one of the poorest countries in the world, Tajikistan (a former Soviet Republic), which consists of an overwhelming majority of Muslims in its population. She found out about the Church as a foreign exchange student in California and got baptized against her mother’s will. She lived there with a host family for several years before she came to B.Y.U., where I met her. In our two years together, I can now see why so many people immigrate to the U.S. illegally: the immigration process is an impossible gauntlet of hoops, forms, and fees! Even though she’s married to me, an American, the State Department wants to send her back to Tajikistan for a year and have her reapply for a new visa before they actually consider giving her a green card! She is a little scared to go home as a Christian convert, who married a Westerner, because, as a little girl, she watched how radical Islamist groups gained influence after the fall of the Soviet Union and led her country into a 5+ year civil war in ’92. I, on the other hand, think it’d be an awesome adventure and can’t wait to be deported, but whatever happens, we’ll make it work…

But anyways, I’m telling you about her because I want to try to help her out with something. While in Cali, her American sponsor-parents, who are professional photographers, took her with them to all their photo-shoots and events. She really got into it and started working with them. Now she has become an incredible wedding photographer, but she’s been having trouble getting exposure here in Utah. She has such a passion for it, and it’s killing me to watch her “starve” artistically. She doesn’t know I’m doing this (she’s much too professional in her photography, however, I’m not professional in anything…), but if you know anyone who is getting married, needs engagement, bridal, family, or baby pictures, have them take a look at her webpage/portfolio and see if they are interested:

veronicabastian.com

Her prices are way below the market price because she is trying to get her name out, so she doesn’t end up making much money from any of her jobs, but she gets so into it and is so talented that people end up getting better service and a better product than if they had paid thousands of dollars to some other guy.

Sorry if this email was spamish and a bother to you. I just want to see her excel in the thing she loves to do. Thanks for your patients in reading through this and good luck on the rest of your finals.

Have a Merry Christmas,

Ryan

If you can help in any way, please let them or I know this Christmas. You gotta look through her website; she's amazing! This may just be her chance to stay here with her husband. Merry Christmas to all of you. Ryan and Veronica, we're praying for you! (Below are a few pictures from her home country.)

A Little Holiday Humor!

2008-12-16T09:42:00.008-07:00

(Just as an idea, really just a hint: instead of sending out those mass emails of holiday humor that annoy everyone as they fill their inbox with junk (not to mention you have to scroll about 30 pages worth of forwarding info.) post it on the blog! It's still funny, it's free, and nobody gets hurt!)

He Made It Home for Christmas!

2008-12-16T09:36:00.003-07:00

They said he wouldn't be home for Christmas. He made it home for her. Just a reminder, I hope all of you can remember so many soldiers out there who are dreaming of a white Christmas too. They need your prayers. As I've been battling these finals, only one thing has helped me from cracking: Listening non-stop to Josh Groban's Christmas CD "NOEL". All of you who can find it, look up track #3 ("I'll Be Home for Christmas") and remember those wonderful young men and women for Christmas. I love you all!

The Dreaded Week before Christmas!

2008-12-16T09:27:00.004-07:00

I apologize to every one for not being able to post stuff on the blog for a while now. For Thanksgiving, I went down to Arizona, then the next week went to Vegas, then last week I had two tests and a paper due, not to mention the two papers and 5 tests I have this week! Tonight I have a test starting at 8:00 PM! Can you believe it? Well, good luck to all of you who are in finals (I think that only leaves Brett and I!) and for all of you that are done with college...HUM BUG!

In the Face of Adversity

2008-11-14T09:24:00.005-07:00

"One of mortality’s great tests comes when our beliefs are questioned or criticized. In such moments, we may want to respond aggressively—to “put up our dukes.” But these are important opportunities to step back, pray, and follow the Savior’s example. Remember that Jesus Himself was despised and rejected by the world. And in Lehi’s dream, those coming to the Savior also endured “mocking and pointing . . . fingers” (1 Nephi 8:27). “The world hath hated [my disciples],” Jesus said, “because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world” (John 17:14). But when we respond to our accusers as the Savior did, we not only become more Christlike, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him as well."

Elder Robert D. Hales
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
October 2008

The Sandhill Crane

2008-11-14T09:02:00.007-07:00

This may sound retarded, I know, but my professor in biology, a mammal expert, talked to us today about the Sandhill Crane and it was so cool. Originally the home of this beautiful bird is in the Siberian Wilderness of Northern Russia. Yet when mating season calls, they cross the Bering Strait, come down the Alaskan Coast, cross the American West and the Rocky Mountains until they arive in Texas. On the return trip for the summer, they make a pit stop in Nebraska. On just a few weeks out of the year, one can go to the Platte River and find over a million cranes on a pit stop to Siberia! My professor said that you can go there around sunset when all the birds arrive from hunting and see HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of birds swooping down to the river for the night. He said that the noise throughout the night is tremendous, as literally thousands of birds let out their mating calls over the water. He said it is an amazing sight to see. Look's like I have a second location on my world list of "Must-See Places": 1) Africa 2)Platte River, Nebraska at the beginning of Sandhill Crane mating season!!

On a "Happy" Note!

2008-11-13T15:57:00.004-07:00

I was doing an assignment for my sociology class and I was looking up a political map of Senegal when I stumbled upon this map published by the UNESCO, the WHO, and others. I thought that this was one of the greatest (and funniest) statistical analysis ever done! And who says that money can't make you happy?! RIDICULOUS!!!

P.S. I added this clip in to give just a light side to my blog. I was kind of disappointed with the reactions people expressed towards the things I posted. I criticized politics, but in some people's comments, they criticized me. I almost thought of discontinuing my "political posts" but I don't feel that that would be right. However, if my posts cause animosity, I apologize, because that is not the spirit of Christ. However, I hope I can maybe start to post more things that express hope and happiness, not the opposite. Sorry to all of you who feel that I have done otherwise. I love you and please don't ever be offended. We're all different and we all think differently. Doesn't that make the world so great?!

Another Political Post...

2008-11-12T10:06:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, I have been posting a lot of political comments rather than writing very much about my personal life but these things ARE important in my life. I am concerned about what's going on and what I need to know to help make things different. Recently, I was talking with my cousin Rachel and her husband Dustin and I mentioned that I was very displeased with the Bush Administration. Many can argue with me over that but Dustin asked me to tell him specifically why. I didn't feel like I got a good chance to explain myself so I'm going to explain it here.

Why I Dislike George Bush and his administration:

1. “For the past eight years, The American Civil Liberties Union has led the battle against the most un-American policies in recent history. The Bush administration created a prison camp at Guantanamo—a place they claimed the law didn’t apply. They detained hundreds of men without charge or trial, prosecuted others in unconstitutional military commissions and authorized torture...Give us back the America we believe in” (American Civil Liberties Union. "Advertisement." New York Times. New York, 10 November 2008.).

2. “…there is no longer any agreement on the main lines of economic policy between the current U.S. administration and the international financial institutions. Consider, for example, recent criticism of U.S. fiscal policy in the IMF’s April 2003 World Economic Outlook. Or consider the contrast between the Bush administration’s disdain for any concern about income distribution and the World Bank’s increased focus on the issue, for example, in the World Development Report 2000/2001. Again, there is now a critical difference in attitudes toward capital account liberalization in the emerging market countries, with the IMF having beaten a well-advised retreat since the Asian crisis while the Bush administration is still using bilateral free trade agreements to bully countries like Chile and Singapore into emasculating even the most enlightened capital controls. And even on trade, the international financial institutions have expressed strong criticism of U.S. policy on agriculture and steel .So, in this sense, any Washington Consensus has simply ceased to exist—a reflection of the chasm that the Bush administration has opened up between the United States and the rest of the world” (Williamson, John. "From Reform Agenda: A short history of the Washington Consensus and suggestions for what to do next." Finance and Development September 2003: 10-13.).

3. If you had only seen and heard what I have seen and heard outside of this country. They hate us and despise us for the policies and administration of President Bush. I believe that instilling such animosity and such inequality in the world is one of the most immoral acts of our history. Like I said before, we stand up and voice our opinion against gay rights and abortion, but that's not all we should be fighting against. Give us back the America we believe in!

The Scream Asylum

2008-11-07T10:33:00.000-07:00

I know this is a little late but I was all caught up in the elections that I didn't get to compile all the posts of my wonderful Halloween weekend. On Saturday, the gang and I went to the SCREAM ASYLUM, a haunted house here in Provo. It actually was really good and I pretty much freaked out. For half of it, you had to wear these 3D glasses that made you feel like you were on ecstasy or something. There was one room painted all white with red blood smears all over the walls. AHH! However, the worst is when you keep walking and they sloooowly keep following! CREEPY!

Thank You, John McCain

2008-11-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

If I can argue anything supporting John McCain it's that that man can lose with class. The New York Times deemed his speech last night as "eloquence" and that it was. It was respectable in every account (ok, for maybe the first 3 minutes!). I still do not uphold his ideas for the future but I do respect the humility he gained in this election (I also loved the way he mentioned the "beautiful Arizona evening" and the cameras showed short-sleeves and palm trees, while it began to SNOW here in Utah! BLAH!) Anyway, I was very impressed by his ability to respect, congratulate, and even encourage Americans to do the same, of the win of President Barack Obama.

What I pulled from his speech, and that each person in this country must pull from his speech is this: THE RACE IS OVER. Despite whom we might have voted for, the President has been chosen. We, ESPECIALLY as members of the church, honor and sustain the laws of this country and we will support our leaders. That is the 13th commandment which the missionaries teach as part of Preach My Gospel! My hope is that although our choice may have been divided, our resolve to act will be united. I sustain Barack Obama as the president of the United States of America, not because he was my original choice but because he was elected. That is how we all should stand. I am so disappointed to hear this morning continued ignorant, prejudice, and anti-patriotic statements concerning the outcome of this election. It's not right, it's not American, and it's just not Christian.

In addition to that, there is hope for those of you who have fear or are doubtful of the future. You all have to remember, Barack Obama is the future president, that is certain, but he is still just one man. He may not uphold some of the moral principles which we do, but look at the rest of the election outcomes: abortion has been battled and beaten, gay rights have been battled and beaten. We still can, and we WILL, uphold righteous principles. And in the end, the president must reflect that. Even Bill Clinton did that for heaven's sakes--he had to! I recognize that the war for righteousness is just beginning and only battles have been won. But we're Americans! This is what we do! We bicker, we debate, and we argue, but when the going gets tough, we unite. God Bless America.

Why I [Would Have] Voted For Barack Obama

2008-11-03T12:12:00.000-07:00

Since I have returned home from my mission, I have done everything humanly possible to learn more about the Presidential Elections that are upon us at this time. I have researched, I have debated, I have studied, I have read, I have listened, I have watched everything about the candidates, their lives, and their hopes, to my fullest capabilities in order to keep an open mind and a clear heart as I venture into the election arena of 2008. I wanted to be informed and not be the average white college male of this century but actually take some notice and make a difference. However, the worst of all has happened: the Arizona state legislature never sent me my early ballot! So looks like I won't be able to participate this year but I want all of you to know what I truly feel. Despite fighting on so many grounds between Obama and McCain, I just want to write here (and I know this will come as a shock) the MORAL reasons I [would have] voted for Barack Obama.

1. The Value of Family

The most sacred thing that we could fight for and protect on this earth is the family. I know I am a sucker for PR publicity, but I am proud of the Obama Family and what they represent. I read recently an article in TIME magazine about the Obama family and the morals they institute and uphold in their household. In no way have they shown the least disrespect to the sacredness of the family. I admire the way they teach, protect, and discipline their children to do what's right. I admire the way Michelle loves her husband. They stand by each other and they support each other. They represent what America really is: hardwork, fighting for an education, and love. I will not list here the reasons why I think Obama's fellow candidates DO NOT to the least degree represent the value of family, but I want people to recognize that family will make a difference and does matter to Barack Obama. Do you all not think that Barack, when faced with a major decision, will not look at his precious daughters and battle within himself about what would be the right thing to do rather than what is expected of him? I have faith in a father that loves his children.

2. The Value of Equality

If there is anything I believe in and support the most in this world, in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and in the Constitution and fabric of the American nation is the principle of equality among ALL men. However, in this nation, I do not believe that we are all equal. If we were and hoped that others could and should enjoy the same, why would we close our borders? I know, I know, I've heard the economic explanation for it so many times over, but that doesn't make it right. There are so many who just want to achieve a better life but are being refused the opportunity because of a few who have abused the system. I know countless numbers of them, the Cabeza's and the Ayaviri's of which are included in that. I know problems occur that may put us out, but our country was DISCOVERED, FOUNDED, and BUILT UP by those seeking a better chance. I will not deny that now! I think there are problems and injustices still to be battled and I will not ignore them.

I do however, support opportunity and education. I do support a belief that there is a better way. I was astonished when I stumbled upon Obama's website, barackobama.com, and found an amazing source of information notifying the people of the world of exactly what Obama wants to do to support the masses and the minorities in this ever diverse country. I was hooked when I found his "Latino Blueprint for Change: Obama's Plan for America" that supports Latin American integration in an ever difficult system. Please, "click" this link (Obama's Plan for America) and follow the link to read that very document and so many others that were created to bring about change. The steps that need to be taken are so small but they require tremendous faith.

3. The Value of Opportunity

In Mosiah 18:27 of the Book of Mormon, the Lord directed his prophet Alma in the establishment of his church upon the land. He directed his prophet to teach the people as such:

"And again Alma commanded that the people of the church should impart of their substance, every one according to that which he had; if he have more abundantly he should impart more abundantly; and of him that had but little, but little should be required; and to him that had not should be given."

I believe that is how our system of economy and our system of taxes should work. I will grant to you all that yes, many have abused and will abuse such a system. But just because so many abuse the welfare system of the church does not mean that we should suspend the program. It is the best we have to help even just a few.

I do support these views and I apologize if family, equality, love, and understanding seem to violate what the Savior himself taught God's children when he was here upon this earth. However, knowing that He preached just that I will argue and fight until death for such to occur in our nation. I'm sorry if that puts some of you out, but that's what we must do. There is more at stake that is threatening the security of the family than abortion or gay rights, there is also war, murder, greed, and discrimination. I encourage you all to vote according to the dictates of your conscience as I do as well. Thanks for just listening.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I say that they who are opposed to cooperation are opposed to heaven, to their own welfare, to the welfare of their neighbors, to truth and to everything that is good."
Brigham Young

"To build cooperativism is not to do the opposite of capitalism as if this system did not have any useful features... Cooperativism must surpass it, and for this purpose must assimilate its methods and dynamism."
José María Arizmendiarrieta

Halloween Latino 2008

2008-11-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Halloween was so much fun this year. My best buddies, Tia, Justin, Henry, and I met up with the old Latin gang, which includes of course Nina and Tati Ayaviri, and we headed off to The Latin Halloween Dance Fest. It was so much fun dancing with all of my best friends and just enjoying Halloween. We danced Salsa, Bachata, Ranchero and others and we learned a new dance from Honduras called La Punta. It was so cool! As you can tell, I was pretty much Incredible! (I have to tell you though, I will do everything humanly possible not to ever where tights again! They're hot, they're sticky, and they're just not fun!) Thanks Sarah for making such an awesome costume and for sending it to me. It was a hit! I love you! Happy Halloween everyone!

Provo, Utah Temple

2008-11-01T13:11:00.000-07:00

How important would it be to talk about the sacredness of the family without understanding more about the temple? I obviously am not the best person to teach about the amazing and beautiful covenants we make in the temple--for that I would love to invite you guys to visit LDS.org to learn more. However, I can tell you that I know that they are truly houses of God. They are full of wonderful and sweet blessings and knowledge. These are a few pictures of the Provo, UT Temple. This temple, just like Mesa, Snowflake, and Cochabamba, has come to hold a special place in my heart as I attend each week to renew my covenants with the Lord. How fortunate are we to have a such a beautiful temple so close to us to attend, whether we be in Utah, Arizona, or Bolivia. We are a blessed generation.

Halloween and the 90's

2008-10-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

Last night, I went with a bunch of friends to a special BYU broadcast of the hit Halloween movie "Hocus Pocus"! Oh, that brought back so many memories. Back in 1993, when my family and I were living in Kirksville, Missouri while my dad went to medical school, we became one of my dad's student friends' favorite little children. (I think her name was Deana or something like that--give me a break I was only 6!) Well, when her sister came into town, she also fell in love with us and decided to take us out to see "Hocus Pocus" for the first time! I still remember that night and oh, was it so much fun. Well, this time I did the taking and I brought along my two sisters from Bolivia, Nina and Tati. I have to admit, I talked the movie up a bit... ok a lot! I told them tough that that movie shows pretty much the essence of American childhood, American Halloween, and American families. The entire movie I was cracking my head off and jumping at all the jumpy parts. I was loving it and they seemed pretty bored; they didn't get at all why all the Americans loved it! Well, for all of you out there, go see it again and reminisce with the 90's! Oh, and please comment if anyone would love to see Sarah Jessica Parker play a role like this one again! CLASSIC. Our next movie adventure to Americanize the Bolivian girls: "10 Things I Hate About You"! Oh yeah, High School at it's best!!!

(Nina and Tati Ayaviri)

Keeping you all up to date...

2008-10-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

Just to keep you guys updated a little bit with my life (sorry, no pictures!): I stopped reading Harry Potter. I just have way to many text books to read and tests to study for that I think the magical reading experience will have to wait until Thanksgiving. I know, bummer. Number two, my hair is not red anymore! It's a long story that involves a BYU barbershop, an adventurous hairstylist with blond dye, a dumb college kid that does whatever they tell him to do, and of course, the orange aftershock! My hair literally looked like carrot top but the hairsylist tried to fix it the next day. However, she dyed it twice more with dark brown but it kept coming out red with a little brown in it! Thankfully though, the length grew out over the last month and finally today I was able to get the last of the red cut off! WOO HOO! (Ok, dumb I know, but isn't that what this blog thing is about?)

Propostion 8

2008-10-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

I'm not the best to describe in words what this means to our nation and to the people of the world. The Proclamation to the Family is a divine document helping each of us to understand our role in God's plan. I hope that the words of the Lord through his chosen prophets today will help everyone understand just a little bit more. As shown above, Proposition 8 is being supported in California to protect the sacredness of the family. As well, propositions are being supported in Arizona (Prop. 106) and Florida. Please get involved. That doesn't mean you have to rally or shout, but just read more and find out in your hearts what is right.

Will it be Chinese or Arabic?

2008-10-23T14:48:00.001-07:00

While many of the world's nations are suffering from economic depression, the world is astonished at the relative stability of a few certain countries that seem to be unaffected by the worldwide dilemma. Whats even more astonishing is that some are even expanding and progressing more now than ever before.

Let's take a look at the mega-city
Dubai-- United Arab Emirates.The Dubai Marina, a residential district, is the world's second largest man-made marina.

An Indoor Ski Resort!

And why did they build an INDOOR ski resort in the middle of the Arabian desert? BECAUSE THEY CAN! United Arab Emirate citizens enjoy a GNI of roughly $43,000 a year. (The United States is only at $45,000 but it is declining!) Now do we wonder were all that money goes for oil?

The Burj Al Arab is now the world's tallest hotel.
AND IT FLOATS ON WATER!

Not to mention the recent and unfinished construction of
the Tower of Dubai,
the TALLEST BUILDING IN THE WORLD,
roughly 300 meters taller than the previous!

And coming soon...
ROTATING BUILDINGS!
(so that your penthouse can get a full 360 degree panoramic view!)

The Future Skyline of the Richest City in the World

So with all this hoopla about China being the world's next superpower and with the United Arab Emirates flying in out of nowhere, where does that leave the United States?

"So Dad, what classes should I take in junior high this year? Chinese or Arabic?"!!!

Elton John and Tim Rice's "Aida"

2008-10-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

On Monday night, I went to go see "Aida" at the Orem Hale Theater. One of my bestest of friends, Miss Bailee Brinkerhoff, was making her debut in the play. She is one of the Young Ambassadors here at BYU. They are a group of traveling performers who go all around the world and have more talent in their little pinkies than the entire Tindall clan has in their bodies combined! The play was absolutely wonderful and is such a heart-wrenching story of love and loss. The cast did a wonderful rendition of John Elton's musical genius. I just wanted everyone to know that if they haven't seen or heard of "Aida", get out there guys and take those sweet ladies on a date. And if you have, give Bailee a round of applause, wherever you're at (and I mean do it!) for her awesome performance.

The Book of the Month

2008-10-17T11:46:00.001-07:00

I know, I know you all must be rolling your eyes at me! Why the heck am I reading the 5th Harry Potter? Well, coming home from my mission, the 5th movie and the 7th book were released, neither of which I have seen or read. Coming home though I was so excited to jump right back into the most phenomenal series of all time for the last time! However, at my friend Justin's house I opened up book number seven and found that within the first page I was lost and had no idea what was going on! Then, I opened up book 6 and I still don't know what was going on. So, I'm starting again from book 5, seeing as I got books 1-4 pretty memorized. I'm behind the rest of the social world but I'm determined to finish. This time though, I have decided to read number 5 and 6 in Spanish to keep me fresh on my Spanish skills. It's awesome because my vocab is really growing even after reading just the first 2 chapters and don't worry, the book didn't loose any of its flavor. I'll keep you posted on how it goes and definitely when I find out what's going on in book number 7! I'm sure it'll be old news for all of you but just smile and bear with it for me. I'm excited!

Latin American Studies

2008-10-16T11:51:00.001-07:00

Since I came back up here to BYU, I have enrolled in the Latin American Studies major in the Department of International Studies. The curriculum covers a lot of material, mainly in Spanish but also in political science, sociology, history, geography, and anthropology. I love my major so much and I am so excited to learn more about Latin America. My minor is Political Science as well. I hope to be able to work in Latin American diplomacy after I graduate from a masters program. I will always continue to study more and I hope to get my doctorate as well in the future. I have a lot of schooling ahead of me, so future wife, if you're reading this, pray for patience!

As part of my requirements to graduate, I must complete a Latin American internship by next summer. After talking to my sister Sarah, I have decided to apply with LDS Employment Services to do an internship from May to August 2009 in the beautiful tropical country of Costa Rica. If I get the internship, Sarah and Chance have promised to come and visit me. However, with tropical hot springs and exotic fishing, I don't think it will be too hard to get my parents down there either!

Model United Nations

2008-10-16T11:15:00.001-07:00

Right now at BYU, I am in a class/club called Model United Nations. It's a mock version of the United Nations, where we discuss and analyze international issues and policies, and as for me, a chance to try and make a difference. I am a firm believer that peace can be achieved as we work together towards a common goal of freedom.

As you can probably tell, I am the UN Representative of Belgium right now and I am having such an awesome time learning more about that intriguing country and its people. The UN has so many great programs and ideas to help the world such as UNICEF, Unite for Children. Sadly though, it has little ability to do such when rogue nations choose not to cooperate. However, I have faith that the world can work together for the better. We are no longer just citizens of Arizona or Utah, or even just the United States, we are World citizens.

My "ethnic" world!

2008-10-14T11:30:00.001-07:00

My niece, Raylee, is Caucasian, Native American, and Philippine.

And B-rok is Caucasian, Black, Italian, and Spanish.

I am such a lucky guy to have such precious kids in my life. I love them with all of my heart and I am grateful for the righteousness of my sister and her husband for bringing them into our family. The world is a better place now.

2008-10-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

These are just a few more pictures of the ethnic children of the world and they are definitely some of my favorite pictures. I think we need to start making changes and let's make a difference for all these kids. My niece and nephew aren't the only ones I need to help and love. I know the Lord will bless our family with many more children who are only in need of a better home.

A few great pics of an amazing country...

2008-10-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

Bolivia was my home for 2 years.

This is the LDS Temple in Cochabamba. I lived directly in front of it for nearly 5 months of my mission. It was a wonderful place.

This was a picture on my last day with my last companion, Elder Martinez, from Medellin, Colombia.

The good ol' fam came to pick me up from my mission and we decided to visit all my old friends. This is the Apaza Family from Sucre. The old man on the left was my oldest convert. He was baptized when he was 85 years old! It was such a great moment to be all together. My two worlds, my two families.

Another great picture of the family in the Amazon River Basin of Bolivia--Villa Tunari. We had a blast! Yo amo Bolivia!

Home Again

2008-10-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Well, as you all may know, I just got home from the most amazing mission ever--Cochabamba, Bolivia. For those of you who may not be familiar with missions or what not, I was serving from August 2006 to August 2008 in Bolivia as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was the most impressive experience of my life. It was the key event that has helped me form what I hope to become. I will be updating the blog as I go (seeing that this is now the cool way to keep in touch with old friends and family!). Hope you all stay in tune to what comes next!