Smith Family Movie Reviews

Anyone who knows us knows that we love movies (although I have a tendency to doze off during them!). We've been catching up on some flicks over the past few months (we obviously don't get out to the theaters often). Here's what we liked and what we suggest you stay away from:



Must see!: Ocean's Thirteen, The Bucket List, Vantage Point, Definitely, Maybe, Fool's Gold, National Treasure 2, P.S. I Love You, No Reservations, The Bourne Ultimatum

Eh...it's there: August Rush, Indiana Jones 4, 21, Drillbit Taylor, 27 Dresses, I Am Legend, Dan in Real Life, Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium, Becoming Jane

Avoid like the plague: The Other Boelyn Girl, Moving McAllister, Juno, Flawless, Over Her Dead Body, The Jane Austen Book Club, Waitress

Well, this is mostly according to me...Elizabeth might tell you otherwise. For the "must sees," most of them aren't going to win awards, but we enjoyed them for entertainment's sake.

Let us know of any recommendations or thoughts on these movies!

Spirtual Blindness: The Road to Emmaus

Here's an article I wrote for the Church News a few years back, but was finally published last year. It's something I've been thinking about lately (plus, it makes for a quick blog entry...copy and paste!).


Blindness is a prevalent theme in the scriptures. The textual accounts of Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry are laced with examples of the Savior restoring sight to those who could not physically see. While these acts were truly miraculous and faith-building, more moving were the occasions where He helped others—believers and non-believers alike—overcome varying forms of spiritual blindness.
No account has illustrated this more vividly for me than that of the disciples on the path to Emmaus found in Luke 24:13-32. In my opinion, these were diligent, faithful followers of Christ who tried their hardest to fully live the gospel. As they traversed the road while discussing the Savior’s recent crucifixion, Jesus Himself “drew near and went with them.” Despite their desire to see Him again, their eyes were “holden” and they could not recognize that Christ was walking with them, teaching them of the scriptures and of His own divine mission.
After blessing and breaking bread with them, the Savior disappeared, leaving the two men to exclaim, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?”
How often is Jesus Christ walking life’s roads with us, and how frequently are our eyes “holden” from His love, mercy, and goodness? There are indeed times when we are impervious to what He has done and what He now does for us. I know there have been many instances when I personally was unable to “see” His hand in my life even though I have a deep testimony that it is always there helping and guiding me. This scripture has done much to help me avoid those blind moments and keep my focus on His reality and on the personal relationship I have with Him.
-LDS Church News, March 17, 2007

Kadencism...it's been a while!

Kadenceisms:
-First and most importantly, she's now saying her own prayers. It's hard to keep from laughing during them, but they are so sweet and fun.
-"Tayah wants you to hold her."
-"Yeah, I made Tayah cry."

David/Elizabeth-"Whose girl are you?"
Kadence-"I'm Daddy's girl!"
D/E-"Are you Mommy's girl?"
K-"No, Daddy's girl! Tayah's Mommy's girl!"

She's just so much fun. Kadence is so talkative at home and then takes quite a while to warm up at friends' houses or at church. Once she gets going, you can't get her to stop! She's a good big sister, always playing with Tayah and showing her signs. She's also teaching Tayah to be tough, thanks to her whaps, shoves, or by sitting on her. In fact, the other day, Tayah slapped Kadence on the head...something she did not like at all!

We all scream for ice cream!

Here we are enjoying some ice cream at IKEA. Gotta love the faces!

Cabela's, IKEA, Mo-Tab, and the Osmonds...

Seeing as Pioneer Day itself was fairly low-key for us, we decided to jam-pack Friday with as much as we could. Although it's been around a few years, we've never taken a trip up to Cabela's in Lehi. Frankly, my name and hunting have never been used in the same sentence (until I just typed this sentence...). It was a blast! There is a lot of the kids to see, including a huge aquarium, some animal displays (to rival the Bean Museum), and even an airplane.


Kadence and Tayah particularly enjoyed the huge fish.


I thought this was a bit funny...and morbid!


We're glad we went, although we'll probably never spend money there--except perhaps for their pretzels!

IKEA was our next stop. We had a fun, albeit messy lunch, followed by a fun stroll through the store with a few purchases (most importantly, some European chocolate!). They have three complete living areas, ranging from 275 square feet to 576. I find these displays amazing! Although it's European, it reminds of Japan's cramped living conditions.

We were glad to have a double date with our wonderful friends Richard and Kristin Gordon. They invited us to accompany them to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir/Osmond Family concert up at the Conference Center. I loved exactly half the show...the half where the choir sang! I respect the Osmonds for all they've done. They've been the main way a lot of people became exposed to the Church. They are good examples in a realm that's not so Gospel-convenient. That said, their music is not something you'd find in the Smith home. A bit cheesy to say the least. I was awestruck to see the way the audience fawned over them. Wow! Several standing ovations (we didn't succumb to the crowd...got to stick with our principles. Only truly great things deserve a S.O.!) It was a wonderful evening and the choir never ceases to amaze me. They're something I think a lot of members take for granted. Thanks Gordons for a great night out!

Fun, Food, and Family

We had a wondeful Pioneer Day! Indeed, most of it was spent playing with our girls...not a bad way to spend it. Elizabeth had an early morning, arising at 3:30 AM to take Kara and Scott to the airport. Congratulations you two on the official engagement! While she got some shut-eye after returning, both girls helped Daddy mow the lawn. Kadence, as usual, pulled out her own lawn mower to "help." We also managed to watch part of the Days of 47 Parade.



Our ward party was great...well attended, great food, lots of friends, and somehow, I managed to get out of the dunking tank! Sorry to those I disappointed on that front(especially some of our Primary kids), but there's always next year!

What kind of pioneers would we have been?

Hypotheticals are always entertaining. I'm sure you've all thought...what if I had been born at a different time, in a different place, or in a different land. Everytime I do, I am overcome with gratitude that I was born exactly when I was. Today is Pioneer Day and I can say, with some certainty, that I would've been a terrible pioneer! I love reading their stories, hearing of their faith and sacrifice. They went through unbelieveable trials yet remained true to Heavenly Father's will. I am so thankful for all who came before...they are truly heroes. I question whether I could've borne what they endured. Here's a question to you: would you have been a good pioneer?

Last year, our stake went on a pioneer trek. It coincided right when Tayah was born, so I wisely stayed home. They'll be doing it again in a few years and I'll start psyching myself up to go. I imagine it'd be a huge testimony builder.

On Monday, we had a FHE on modern-day pioneers (we had the pioneer lesson the week before). It was fun showing the family photos of my Japanese brothers and sisters, people I sincerely consider to be pioneers in their own rights. They were and are still remarkable examples to me. The lesson will be more impactful a few years from now, but for the time being, Kadence liked seeing "Dad as a missionary!"

Masterpieces

On Saturday, we had a fun family outing up at the University of Utah's Museum of Art. There was an amazing exhibit called Monet to Picasso. After a fun picnic, we toured the exhibit full of paintings from some of history's greatest artists: Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, Rodin, Picasso, Dali, etc. The kids did a good job, but it could only hold their attention span so long! They did a fine job with the exhibit. It was simply amazing to view some of the very same pieces I studied during my Humanities major at BYU. Thank you Mother for the wonderful event!



You'll be happy to know that Kadence has succeeded two of the past three nights in staying in bed! Thanks to all the fantastic suggestions. She's earned herself a little ice cream cone today!

We've had a busy few days full at home at work. I've had some long days, trying to accomplish all I need to before the Pioneer Day holiday weekend. Elizabeth and the girls have had fun at Seven Peaks, going about once a week.

We had a wonderful anniversary, complete with dinner, flowers, and a movie. Thanks to Dad and Donna for taking granddaughters duty! It was fun spending the time just the two of us, although the movie (Indiana Jones) left A LOT to be desired of. I love you Elizabeth!

Stay in bed Kadence!

What on earth could possibly induce us to be upset at this little girl? Honestly, the terrible twos haven't been all that terrible...tolerable is a better word. So, in that aspect, we're doing just fine. It's her bedtime issues that have cropped up that cause us parental angst! Since we got back from the reunion, she's having a bear of a time staying in bed. Each evening, she gets up, opens the door and sits on the stairs until Daddy or Mommy come get her. Not too bad right? Well, when she does it several times between 1:30 and 2:30, it's a different story. She did it a few times for Grandpa and Grandma Smith last night (who babysat for our anniversary celebration). We love you little Kadence, but for the love of all that's good in life, stay in bed!

Now, it's my turn!

Four years ago yesterday, Elizabeth and I went into the Mt. Timpanogas Temple and were sealed to each other for time and all eternity. I remember that day so vividly. It was hot, being in the middle of summer; yet it was overcast. We were surrounded by all our loved ones the entire day. I remember as we entered the celestial room and seeing our family and friends filled us with joy. There was not an ounce of nervousness in me, as I knew I was marrying the right person at the right time and by the right authority (that lesson back in Seminary and YM was right!). Kneeling across the alter from Elizabeth, I knew I was marrying my sweetheart.

Since then, we've built a condo and then a house, gone on many trips and reunions, experienced new and challenging callings, continue to learn more about each other each passing day, and have been blessed with two beautiful daughters who mean everything to us. We've created lasting memories. Thank you for the past four years Elizabeth and here's to all that's on it's way. I love you!

Four years and counting...

Just wanted to wish my wonderful husband (yes, this is Elizabeth...try not to fall off your chairs) a HAPPY ANNIVERSARY today. We got married four years ago and it really doesn't seem that long. I love being married to my best friend and am so appreciative of the support and strength that he is to me. He keeps me from letting myself get too stressed out about all the little things, and he loves us so much. I couldn't ask for a better husband or father for our little girls. I love you David!

A Message From Kadence

Our little Kadence has had some inconsistent sleeping patterns ever since we returned from the reunion last week. She's been getting up a few times after we put her down...the perils of knowing how to open the door! Anyway, we never know when she's going to wake up each morning. Today was an early morning, around 6:30. In fact, she's sitting on my lap helping me type this entry. She wants a chance to add to this blog (something Elizabeth still hasn't done! Let's put some pressure on her to surprise us with an entry soon! Check out our poll to the left).

Pearls of wisdom from Kadence:

ggggggggggggggggggggggggggggf cccccccccclcn tqwru n mm

I couldn't have said it any better!

They Keep Growing Up!

Here are more photos of our girls from the reunion. Gotta love their reactions to the 4th of July fireworks! Sorry the video of Tayah walking didn't work. We'll try again today...

Tayah's a WALKER!

While she's been taking two or three steps at a time, Tayah is now a little walker! It's like a switch just turned over and she knows how to do it much, much better. Hopefully the video works (I think it's sideways...sorry about that!).

Torgesen Family Reunion

We apologize for the lack of entries, but we've been on vacation. And what a wonderful vacation it was (I just committed a grammatical taboo--starting a sentence with the word "and!")! After frantically packing and getting things tied down at work, home, and with church callings, we left Wednesday evening and drove straight through the night to Old Town, ID. I am certainly not an advocate for driving through the night, but it did help us make a quieter, smoother trip...who am I to argue?!

It was wonderful to be with Great-Grandma Torgesen (see photo above), G & G Torgesen, and every single member of the Torgesen family (10 siblings, 8 spouses, and 34 grandchildren). How special for every one to be together! Here's a photo of just a portion of Kadence and Tayah's cousins:



There's nothing like family! We are extremely grateful for the lodging that GG Torgesen provided for us all--it was a perfect setting for the reunion. Not only were there wonderful rooms, but all the recreation we could want. We played games, had a talent show (here's Granny and Gramps singing a duet just below), went hiking, had many great meals, viewed photos from the past, etc. The boys even played a two-hour spot of full-court basketball. I remember when I could do that for hours, but how the times have changed!



We ended up staying through Monday morning and made the trek home. The girls were good little travellers and we loved having Kara and Scott with us. We did have a little speeding ticket on the way back, thanks to an overzealous Idaho officer (we don't need to go into detail here :). We were appreciative of the time together and cherish them. We were especially grateful to be with Great-Grandma again. She is such a remarkable person and example and we love her deeply.

It's been a whirlwind of a week trying to pick up the pieces, but it's worth the memories we made. We love our family!

June Nuts and Bolts

Here’s the June calendars of happenings for the Smith clan:
06.01: Elizabeth, who is neither nursing or pregnant, fasts for the first time since 2005. David is happy for the company!
06.02: It has been a great month for Family Home Evenings. The girls get excited for it (or it might just be the games and treats…). It’s fun to watch Kadence get into the lessons.
06.04: Happy Birthday to Sarah! Elizabeth had the last step to her root canal and couldn’t be more thrilled (denote sarcasm).
06.05: We had an insulation consultation and ended up having much more insulation installed. We hope this will help during the extreme Utah seasons. David had his annual LDS Philanthropies Vision Conference. Elizabeth was able to attend the Thursday evening session on campus.
06.06: Friday saw us heading to Friday’s meeting in the Assembly Hall at Temple Square. We heard from Bishop Edgley, President Samuelson, and President Clark (BYU-Idaho) among others and had a great day full of inspiring thoughts. I am grateful to work where I do!
06.10: Elizabeth has had a fun, busy month with the Young Women, including Tuesday night activities. Our wonderful neighbor (whom I home teach) helped us install ceiling fans in both girls’ rooms. We had a little scare when a three-year old in our neighborhood went missing. After searching for quite a while, he was found safe and sound. It’s always humbling to see people’s goodness!
06.11: Tayah continues to attend baby sign class and is picking up more and more signs each day. Kadence is a good teacher to her! David conducted his first monthly training meeting for his staff in the new LDSP building.
06.12: We woke the girls up at 6:15 AM (usually they’re both up by 6:30 or 7:00) to see hot air balloons. This whole week was Springville’s Art City Days. They loved seeing the balloons get blown up and sent off the ground! We then went to BYU’s Museum of Art’s medieval festival for kids—complete with etching, dancing, castle-building, and story-telling.
06.13: Congrats to Jonathan and Tine on their wedding! It was wonderful to see so much of the family there, especially the Ricks families who are back East. We went to Orem Summerfest and Kadence had a delightful time riding the merry-go-round and a car ride (which she did on her own…that’s big!).
06.14: Had our June birthday party with the family up in Salt Lake City. We then hit Art City Days’ carnival. The girls were tired and cranky, but we still had a great experience. We worked on the yard that night and have enjoyed doing so in the nice summer evenings this month.
06.15: Happy Father’s Day out there! Elizabeth and the girls made it a special day for me with breakfast, gifts, hugs and kisses. The bishopric was able to speak in sacrament meeting, which added to the day. We had the whole family down for our FD get-together.
06.19: We’ve been plugging away with our weekly bishopric visits. Our goal is to visit all 490 members sometime this year. With three or four a week, we’re on track!
06.20: David was able to go up to LDS Business College for some meetings. After the busy week we had before, a nice quiet evening at home was perfect.
06.21: We attended our block party. There was a terrific turn-out of neighbors and we all loved getting to know each other better. We couldn’t ask for better friends!
06.23: Summer term starts at BYU which brings more interviews for David. I couldn’t be more excited (denote more sarcasm).
06.26: Our little Tayah turns one! Words can’t express how much joy this little angel has brought to our lives. We’re so grateful to have you in our family precious one. Elizabeth and I headed up to Girls’ Camp for bishopric night with dinner in tow. We love our girls and had a wonderful time with them.
06.28: Sorry we couldn’t make the Relay for Life, but our thoughts were with the family. Elizabeth and the girls attended Kammi’s baby shower. We went to the quinzinera (sp?) for one of our YW who turned 15. Quite the event! We followed that up with our monthly game night with ward friends.
06.29: David conducted his fifth Sunday this month. I always get the five weekers! The Bishop was out of town this week. We had a nice combined meeting with LDS Family Services. We had friends over for dinner that night.
06.30: Another month is in the books for Tayah, Kadence, and their parents, with plenty on the docket for July!