Thursday, August 21, 2008

Blog Eagle

Jason Schallenberger asked me to present his Eagle Scout Award and give the Eagle Challenge during the Court of Honor tonight. It was an honor. It's also always an honor and I'm humbled to be able to sit with other Eagle Scouts in the Eagles' Nest. Tonight is was myself, Weston Harmon, Loyd Rennaker, and Dwain Schallenberger. Thanks, Jason.

I was reminded of my days in Scouting 25 years ago. I commented to a few people tonight - as I often do at occasions such as this - that I don't think I'd have earned the award without my mom. I'm sure my dad helped. I'm sure my leaders helped. But I think my mom was integral to placing me in the situation. Thanks, Mom.

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Education Weak?

As is becoming an annual tradition I went to BYU-Idaho Education Week this past Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I know that's only 3 days, which is technically less than a week. That's not the point of the story, though, so just let it go!

This year Tara came again after a brief absence last year due to last-minute Girls Camp schedule changes. It was much better for me with her there. I was even able to resist the urge to pick a different class than she did just for the sake of difference and/or trying to maximize our learning by spreading ourselves out and sharing notes later; which has proven not to be as fruitful as hoped in the past. In other words, we actually went to a couple of classes together; which was good.

Jacob also went with us this year. I think there was a little too much "adult education" for his tastes but he did comment in prayer tonight that he was thankful that he could learn more about how to become a better person. Tara and I talked during one walk between classes about how nice it would be if he only gained one thing from the weekend -- and future "Education Weeks" -- that he could look back on with positive memories. Next year Erik will be able to go, too. I think that will be even better for both of them.

Anyway, as to the title of the post, it's basically a comment on how weak my education is outside the 3 days in Rexburg. The things I learn there have a recharging effect on me, as if what I learn the other 362 days/year don't equal. I'm sure that's partly said because it's so fresh in my mind at the moment and that the feeling will fade in time. That's what blogs/journals are for me, though; to capture snapshots in time that I can look back at later and remember the feelings I felt at said moments.

How do you like my amateur snapshot of the temple, too?