WHAT'S GOIN' ON

Since my blog is supposed to be a journal sort of thing I should probably do more than post the most entertaining pieces of my life. In between visiting mom for her birthday and attending docutah I work...professionally and domestically.  I am also a philanthropical freak, involved in way to many service projects and volunteer opportunities.

Work

Every day I spend as the Director of Public Relations for CMI is an adventure.  My three fold mission is to benefit the students in all that we do, to connect with the community and to generate partnerships that will in turn generate revenue for the CMI and the Communication Degree Program at DSC.  I enjoy this very much.  I grow with every challenge and I am continually enlightened by the energy of the students.  The down side is that I have to interact with people that must be tolerated instead of respected.  

In every working environment we must cross paths with people who lack self esteem and as a result behave in unethical ways.  The people I speak of are supposed to be experienced professionals who should have learned by now to act with respect.  Instead they see only their personal agendas and will do their best to undermine and bulldoze the goodness in others.  In these instances I must hold to my integrity and breath deep.  I must remind myself that God is watching and that karma will always prevail.  

Home

If I say that for the 6th time in the last 10 years I am immersed in a move will you understand?  Yes, once again we move our household from one location to another.  I am mentally, physically and emotionally spent.  I am now determined to stay in this new home or move abroad.  One more move to another St. George location will cause me to completely collapse.  I'm sure that daily meditation and prayer has pulled me through and kept me going.  My forward vision is for 2 weeks from now when I will detox for 2 days with Karamea in Salt Lake.   

Philanthropy - I'll just make a list

• Chair of the International Festival
• Chair of the Lions Roundup Rodeo Breakfast
• Event Coordinator for the Washington County School District Foundation
• VP of Club Services for Red Rock Rotary Club
• PR for Leadership Academy
• PR for DocUtah
• PR for Washington County Fair (thank God we are on hiatus)
• Member of the Dixie Sunshiners who are ambassadors for the St. George Chamber of Commerce

That is currently my life.  And I can still see that it is a beautiful Sunday morning and feel joy in my soul.   

DOCUTAH STIRS MY SOUL

The first installment of DocUtah has come to an end.  DocUtah was the brainchild of Phil Tucket, my boss at work.  He had this idea a little over three years ago to create an International Documentary Film Festival.  It finally launched on September 16.  I attended gala event where Helen Whitney's film on Forgiveness was premiered.  This was incredibly moving.  Helen is a master film maker and I was privileged to spend some time with her over the last ten days. But for me, Friday was the highlight of my festival experience.

We drove to Kanab to arrive for the first film of the day showing at 10:00a in the Crescent Moon Theatre.  The films took us all over the globe.  Through the magic of film we were introduced to some people who were passionate about the Glen Canyon and not at all happy when it was destroyed by the dam that created Lake Powell.  Then we traveled to Ireland to see the destruction of phone boxes.  Someone decided they were an eyesore and needed to be removed and many people did not like the decision.  They protested the removal so there are a few remaining boxes.  Then to the Canyonlands of Southern Utah where we were introduced to 90 year old Kent Frost.  Kent spent his life exploring and touring people through the red rocks and open lands.  He said he was privileged to live a frontier life in modern times.  Then we met Kazaih the goat woman.  She lives in Manti and raises goats.  But the amazing thing about Kazaih is that she paints portraits of fallen soldiers. A family will send her a picture and she will paint a beautiful portrait.  She says she starts with the eyes because they are the window to the soul and they talk to her while she paints.  This film was highly inspiring.  After Kazaih we journeyed to Thailand and screened a very moving film titled, The Last Elephants in Thailand.  Terrible things are happening to the elephants but there are wonderful people who have created elephant hospitals.  I learned that there are volunteer opportunities at these hospitals.  I can go on vacation and help the elephants.  Then to China because it is believed that this country will soon take over the world.  During the film we saw glimpses of India, Nepal, Tibet, Afghanistan and Pakistan.  When that film ended Phil inserted a disgusting film about an Oklahoma Snake Festival.  Oh my!  I will never go to this event.  So gross!  I am sometimes amazed at the crazy things people do.  We stepped out of the theatre and into the light around 4:00p.  It was a bright sunshiny day and I had been completely inspired by the films of the day.  But I was starving.

We found Grandma Bears or something like that.  Amazing sandwiches and an almond rocha milkshake.  So divinely delicious!  And a wonderful snack before heading to the closing gala event which was held at Angels Landing on the property of the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.  We listened to the Canyon Symphony and watching Pancho Barnes and the Happy Bottom Riding Club.

This was an absolutely spectacular day.  I am so excited for next year!  

ELEPHANT TREK

Last week I spent two days at the St. George Chamber of Commerce Business Expo.  As part of the entertainment I stepped under the Yellowpix canopy.  Considering the feng shui description of the elephant I decided I needed to go on an Elephant Trek.

The elephant is probably the most positive animal symbol.  Some of the lessons thought to be learned from the elephant include strength, wisdom, solitude, family loyalty and intelligence.  The elephant is also considered to be a symbol of good luck.

As the public relations manager for the Center for Media Innovation (CMI), I was required to spend two days manning my booth at the expo.  It takes strength to stand on the cement floor and brave the chilled air of the Dixie Center.  At times I felt the solitude of being alone in my booth but I am loyal to my work so I stayed there even under the most exhausting moments.  As for intelligence, I am by nature filled with internal wisdom.  This is a gift from God.

These are lessons learned from my elephant trek and lessons learned through life's experience.   

THE CLEAR CONNECTION

On Friday afternoon it was announced that KCSG news would dissolve the news portion of the operation.  From that moment on the live and local news of the Southern Utah community would cease to exist.  At first I thought it was an April Fool's joke but it's February.  The information was accurate.  About a dozen people lost their jobs and the news did not air on Friday night.  I was bewildered at this new information for a second but then considered the source and completely understood the action.

The reason for the breakdown is of course money.  But why not finish out the week?  Why not give the anchors one final newscast to say a professional farewell? 

Humans, we are a strange and predictable species.  We think we are so different and yet we mirror each other.  We know this because we all connect with the same literature in books, lyrics in music, food, nature.  Whatever life's experiences may be we all can empathize with the suffering and celebrate with the jubilant.  What is it that connects us?

It is the Light of Christ; the Love of God - the energy of our souls originates from our creator.  We all are alike because we all come from the same place.  It is how we use this Light and Love that will direct our choices and the rippling affect they have on others. 

As I consider the spontaneous actions of one man and how his negative decision affects the life's of many, it is clear to me that this is wrongful behavior.  At least find the humility to explain yourself to your employees and to loyal viewers of KCSG.

Only 6 weeks ago I faced the decision of choosing KCSG or CMI.  Today I am thankful that I followed the inner voice, the inspiration from above and that I chose to stay with CMI.       

CLEANING CLEAN

In the stress and busyness of last week I failed to post the one serene event that made me pause mid-week.  Wednesday December 23, 9:45pm (yes that's almost my bedtime) I reported to the St. George Temple to ENJOY 2 hours of cleaning clean.  This is also the day to celebrate the life of Joseph Smith.  As Hamilton continually reminded me, it was his 204th birthday.  Happy Birthday Joseph.

I arrived at the temple in regular temple going clothes and was immediately given white scrubs to change into.  After changing we met in the chapel for a prayer and thought before going on to our assignment.  I was assigned to the baptistry.  It was quiet and peaceful and there were times I would visualize the fact that I was cleaning the House of the Lord.  Incredible, to say the least.

This will be a peaceful experience and cherished memory.  Then Christmas happened 2 days later.   

EMMMMMMMMMMCEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

There's a first time for everything and tonight was my first time as an emcee.  Ammon asked me, "what's an mc", so I told him, "it's the person who introduces stuff on stage, the master of ceremonies."  Ummm, I am a master of nothing. But I did emcee at the Jubilee of Trees tonight.

Normally this is something I line up for on air talent but the talent was busy doing the news.  So there was no one else to play the part but me.  This is not something I like to do.  I am generally the one who sets it up then stands behind the scenes to watch.  But tonight I had to step out of my comfort zone.

It was Family Night at the Jubilee of Trees and it was get-in-free night.  Oh my, the place was packed.  Standing room only.  Diamond Talent did the entertainment and it was spectacular.  I was so impressed!  The Larson's are amazing.  High energy and fabulous talent.

So now I can say that I have been the "mistress of ceremonies" and I did okay.

FINISH LINE

CMI linked up with KCSG which meant I was back on the Finish Line at the marathon. I'm still trying to decide how I feel about receiving my old job back, but being on the finish line was absolutely wonderful.

There is complete comraderie among the volunteers who have been there year after year, some for all of the 33 years of the St. George marathon. Those crossing the finish line come in order of appearance. First, those who are participating in the Mayors Walk, then the marathon wheel chair particpants, then the anticipated arrival of the one who takes first place. We watch as a combination of wheel chair and male runners cross the finish line and once again - anticipate - the arrival of the first female runner.

She comes through about 3 hours after she has begun. She crosses then crumbles to her feet. Men of the 172nd battalion run to her aid, lift her and carry her to the first aid station. Fourty-five minutes later she stands, with her 6 children, in front of our camera's and does a live interview.

As a mother of 6 children I am amazed at her commitment and dedication to accomplish this goal she has set for herself.

Another St. George marathon has come and gone and I have had the priviledge of being in the thick of it all. This brings joy to my soul. Maybe my job is not such a bad thing afterall.

FEEL THE HEAT

A broken AC and I am sweltering in the warmth. The high today...103 degrees in the shade. At 8:55pm it is 92 degrees. Inside my house it is a balmy 89. Ugggh. I need to be working but I can't focus on anything but the sweat trickling down my neck. I need a cold shower or a swimming pool. The HVAC dude will be here in the morning...this could be a long night.

Earlier this evening I was at the baseball park helping with an event promotion. It was Special Needs Awareness at the Roadrunner Baseball game. My job was to hand out T-Shirts to the special needs people. This was more than I imagined it to be. They are called special needs but they are special spirits. I was emotionally moved by the joy a simple t-shirt brought. A smile and clap of glee as I placed the shirt in a hand.

I was standing outside in that 103 degrees handing out shirts and completely enjoying the spirit that surrounded me. Life is full of joy!

WEEKEND WRAP UP

Yes...a quick post to wrap up my weekend. After spending the last 2 weekends traveling we decided to hang out at home. It is dragon breath hot outside so we stayed in the basement all weekend.

Harry Potter Marathon!

Auntie Rubina was feeling kind of bad for us because we had never seen any of the movies or read the books. We "just didn't know what we were missing!" So she brought over her collection and we spent all day Saturday watching movies then most of today...aside from church and dinner. Now we are ready for #6 at the cinema and we can join in on the "water cooler talk" I guess.

Soooooo, I got a job. And it pays me money! I start tomorrow, The Center for Media Innovation. A media facility on the campus of Dixie State College. Two radio stations, a newspaper, 3 production studios, online video...should be exciting.

My lazy days of summer are over.

CLOSING A CHAPTER

After 5 years in television I have made my grand exit. Yesterday was my final day at KCSG Television and I am moving on.

The news came as a bit of a shock to the St. George circles I run in. I was pretty much a constant around town and came to be known as the one person at KCSG that one could really count on. But after a year without television I realized there's better causes to promote.

You may recall previous blogposts about living without TV. I have and will continue to repeat that being TVless is the greatest way to live. Everything about life is different. It is difficult to explain until you actually experience it so I'll just encourage you to try it...it's wonderful.

Where do I go from here?

Let's just say - it's time to follow my heart. Check back every now and again and I'll have all the details.

ME AND MY DATE

Ra is out of town for a couple of days and I had to go to a banquet for the Rotary Bowl tonight. I didn't want to go alone so Ammon was my date! It was nice of him to endure this 2 hour banquet with me. Phil Tucket was the keynote speaker so he showed us lots of video which made the time go by so much faster.

Here's something random...it's 41 degrees outside and everyone (except me) is getting ready to go outside and sleep. Does anyone think that is strange? Every night I sleep inside the warm house alone snuggled comfortably under an electric blanket while the rest of the family sleeps on the patio in sleeping bags. Crazy...but then nothing around here is ever very normal.

WHEN I WAS YOUNG 3

My dad was a farmer, consequently when I was growing up we had a huge garden in the back yard. I spent a good part of my summers weeding, picking beans, peas, carrots, lettuce, radishes, tomatoes, raspberries and digging for potatoes. As I weeded and picked I was visited by the spiders and worms living among the leaves and stems of these various plants. This was not a welcome visit and sometimes sent me screaming and running from the rows of vegetables.

Let me also insert here that I am not a big fan of dirt. Even to this day if I get a spot on my shirt I will almost instantly change the outfit. So picking up the potaotes as dad turned the dirt wasn't exactly a bonding moment for me...

Now that I have matured and have the memories to dwell on I can honestly say that being raised in the garden was very good for me.

Lessons Learned
::fresh is best::
::my dad is brilliant::
::spiders are really not that bad::
::worms are::
::dirt is still not good under my fingernails::
::raspberries are worth it::
::daydreams in the garden are enlightening::
::gardening is a fulfilling activity and well worth the labor::

BEWILDERED

I catapulted into consciousness at 4:30 this morning. Knowing I had to really be awake by 5:15 to get to the radio station on time, I couldn't fall back to sleep.

radio :: school registration :: work :: fair :: Sunset on the Square ::

And I did it all with a throbbing migraine. How do I do it? At some point I'm going to crumble into a sweet oblivion and loose all memory of my existence...

It's been a nineteen hour day. I think I'll crawl into my bed now.

LIVING IS HARD WORK

Life is all about work. Work to get ready for work. Work all day at work then come home to work all night. I asked a friend his thoughts on work. The answer came in scripture...

"...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling...work for his good pleasure." (Phillipians 2:12) He sort of paraphrased...okay he paraphrased alot. But I started thinking about the words.

My first thought - "why would God take pleasure in seeing me work myself into mental and physical exhaustion." Then I thought about God as my father, me as His child and me as a parent.

As a parent I have taught my children work ethics. I take pleasure in knowing that my children know how to work and that they work hard. In opposition to that, I become most frustrated with my children when they have too much leisure time on their hands. Lessons are not learned in leisure activity they are learned in the challenge of work. Then I realize that being a parent makes me a better child.

That being said, I need a break from work.

My only refuge is in the 6 minutes it takes me to drive from work to home. The fantastical thoughts of my mind rejuvenate my energies so that when I face the domestic challenges at home, I can transition from work to work and not even skip a beat.

SURPRISE ME!

Did I mention I work for a television station?

I spent the last couple of months promoting a local concert. DRAKE BELL came to St. George! The concert promotion was just part of my job. My boys were thrilled. They were gonna meet

Drake Bell. And meet him they did.

Drake signed some stuff but most important - HE SIGNED HAMILTON'S VIOLIN! How cool is that?

I wasn't excited at all about sitting through his concert but I have to say...I was pleasantly SURPRISED! Young, amazingly talented musicians. Playing a variety of instruments and genre's. It was an enjoyable evening with Asa and Hamilton.

My most favorite tune was - Mellow Yellow (hey I'm fourty something). I do believe he has a strong future in the music industry.

LIFE IN A FAST LANE

What a crazy week this has been! Last Sunday the weather was so terrible. Just as the sun was setting it started to rain. The rain turned to sleet and soon to heavy snow. The weight of the snow on a weak roof can be fatal to the inside of a building.

Needless to say, I arrived at work Monday morning to an enormous wet mess. Fellow employees were frantically moving furniture and files to our new building.

KCSG was in the process of making a move but it wasn't supposed to happen for another month. With the roof caving in we had no choice but to move to our new building ahead of schedule. We spent 2 days moving boxes, files and furniture then another 3 days washing and painting walls. The timing of this move was extremely inconvenient.

I'm sure I left a lot of things out and I know my kids wondered if they still had a mother. But we made it. A quick check at the new building today...the walls are freshly painted and the carpets are in the drying stage. KCSG business offices will be functioning at 75% on Monday...sales needs a new set-up and managers will need to settle in. Next step is to create the new studio and news room.

Can't Wait!

GLAMOR GAL

So...ya...it took nearly 2 hours to fix my hair. And since I went to all that work we decided to take pictures. I'm sure you can guess - it's not very often that I actually do my hair like this. And maybe you're wondering where I was going.

The annual St. George Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet. These gala events are not really my favorite thing to do but as the Director of Public Relations for KCSG Television it's part of the job.

We arrived late but that's okay. I wasn't really up for the pre-dinner chit chat at the reception. That kind of conversation is tiresome. We entered and went right to our table where everyone was already seated and enjoying their salad...if you want to call it that. Dinner was just as scary as the salad. I was glad I had eaten a late lunch and wasn't really hungry.

The Chamber Committee was sworn in by the mayor. There is about 20 of them and I know them all. The keynote speaker was someone I didn't know. A retired, wealthy person from Ohio who lives in St. George 6 months out of the year. His favorite thing to do is drive around looking at the beautiful scenery of St. George and get lost. K...that takes time and money...what a lucky guy.

The event ended close to on time. I chatted with associates while Ra waited in the lobby. It wasn't long before we were home and I was out of those high heels...ouch! Back into my jeans and clogs and off to the Saturday night ritual...grocery shopping.

That's more my style!

Just Another Day

I hit the ground running at 6am this morning. Fold the laundry, check emails, stretch achy bones, read a few lines to jump start my brain, empty dishwasher, start breakfast, wake kids...and so on. One by one I drove kids to school then to work then ended up at work myself.

Work...so many demands, so much to do. Phones ringing, emails to respond to, conversations with colleagues. Then it's afternoon. The kids are out of school.

The most blustery day of the winter, everyone needs a ride. Run away from work, pick up children and drive them home. Run a couple of errands for work then back to work.

More emails to respond to, more projects to work on...6:00...Karamea needs a ride.

Home at last...relax...are you kidding...it's just the changing of the hats.

Now I'm the mom...laundry...household chores...prepare dinner. Everyone leaves for the gym and I realize...

I will only make it to the gym if I wake up at 4:30am and start my workout at 5:00. So that's my new goal. Not tomorrow...I'll be on the radio...but on Wednesday I'll go to the gym at 4:45a and get my body back in shape.

Radio Riot

It's morning. I am currently on air guest hosting with Rick St. Nick on 102.3 The Fox. He just quizzed me to see if I was suited for the field I am working in. The concensus is that I am a creative dynamo who enjoys combining my keen imagination with a hands on approach. The career recommendation is landscaping. That makes me laugh.

MY KCSG BIO

Laninina, as her parents named her, was raised in Calgary, Alberta. Her father was a hard working farmer and provided for his family as a Life Insurance salesman. Lani’s first experience with work was in a garden and later as her father’s secretary where she learned the basic skills of sales and marketing and “how to win friends and influence people.”

Lani earned a degree in life skills while spending 18 years raising a family and volunteering for various church, school and non-profit organizations. She spent 5 years as the secretary for the Southern Utah Polynesian Association which introduced her to the corporate world.

Lani entered the St. George workforce a little over 7 years ago and continues raising a family of 5 boys and 1 girl. She is naturally skilled at public relations, promotions and marketing and is thrilled to contribute to the encouraging future of KCSG Television.