tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80124982403907021592024-03-19T01:51:13.764-07:00It's worth it!Life. Don't you love it! Family and Friends. What more could i want. Life's worth it.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-28534683023809399852012-12-14T00:28:00.000-07:002012-12-14T00:28:40.998-07:00homeThis totally happened. I'M HOME!
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Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-85436663727020773052010-11-30T22:46:00.001-07:002010-11-30T22:46:31.766-07:00MISSION!!!Bye! I'm going on a mission.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-40768525153646886792010-11-19T23:14:00.002-07:002010-11-19T23:29:47.634-07:00SleepLife is wasted. Seriously. Not to be a downer, but check out this stat I was made aware of by my best bud yesterday. If you sleep 8 hours a day(Average) for your entire life, you miss out on 1/3 of your life. If you are currently 18 and reading this, on average you've really lived 6 years less than that. So you're like barely 12. Grow Up you prepubescent adolescent.<br />What about this. There have been studies done with people in isolation. They are separate from anything or anyone that could hint at the time and they were asked to try and keep track. What they discovered was that consistently after two or three weeks all humans faulted back to a specific daily routine. Only the difference between their day and our day is that theirs consisted of 25 hours!! So... point is our bodies need 25 hours and we're given one less. So we're always trying to catch up and just can't succeed! This is why if you take a nap during the day you stay up late. Because we push for that extra time.<br />Is it possible to control our dreams? I submit it is. Have you thought about something while falling asleep and dreamed about it that very night? Can you imagine the potential of being so cognoscente in your sleep that you could learn or progress? We could have programs design specifically to teach the piano while you were sleeping. Or to learn advanced calculus in your dreams. Or to write poetry. Or any other worthwhile awesome thing. I believe it's possible. Just maybe not yet. This life is about learning how to grow and progress. I believe that in the life after this we will be able to grow at a more rapid rate due to the ability to think.... specifically in our dreams. Great are those who dream dreams and are willing to pay the price to make them come true.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-83531052224261183862010-11-11T22:53:00.002-07:002010-11-11T23:03:13.672-07:00Holidays?Today was grand. Lots of cleaning-ish things. I'm getting rid of loads of things due to my long leave from home. And my family is getting rid of loads of things too! But because they're moving sometime when I'm gone. We need a smaller house so we need to get rid of our extra stuff. Because of this, I have realized how ridiculously much I have. It's not even funny. Like no joke, I have so much stuff. I got rid of probably 90% of my clothing and I still have basically a full closet. We all could get along with so much less.<br />This month being November, it's almost natural to be grateful, but this year is even more so. And today was Veteran's Day. But... honestly I wasn't that grateful for the Veterans. In fact, I got to thinking about all of the holidays and how warped they are. All of them are twisted from what they used to be. Christmas is about Christ and all we do is decorate and buy presents. Thanksgiving is about giving thanks yet all we do is eat and play/watch football. St. Patrick's Day is supposed to be a holy day about God. Yet all we do is wear green and drink beer. In fact, the original color of st. patty's day is BLUE!!! We've changed even the appearance of the day. I challenge anyone to come up with a holiday that hasn't morphed into some worldly tradition that spawns idol worship and satanic rituals.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-5748658112893085262010-11-10T23:55:00.004-07:002010-11-11T00:27:59.493-07:00BFI finally got my freaky-deaky ticket to Salt Lake. I was afraid it was never going to come ever. Thankfully God wants me to go on a mission too. He's making it oodles easier to go. Nay leaves in less than a week. I'm so proud of him! It's an honor and a thrill to have associated and worked with him and now it's kickin' but that we're leaving at like the same time. Only we're going in opposite direction and are going to be thousands of miles away. Because his awesome example to me, I'd like to give a shout out to anyone that's been my best friend at some point in my life.<br /><br />Nathan E Dandridge<br />Rockwell B Reber<br />David Schmidt<br />Tannis Crandall<br />Ryan P Merkley<br />Thomas Manning<br />Brian F Nielson<br />Stephen Moyer<br />Sterling Priday<br />Rendy Brooke McLellan<br />Nevin Johnson<br />Calliandra Anderson<br />David J Lindblom<br />Taylor Allen<br />Mychal B Stewart<br />Brandon Ray<br />Blake Julander<br />Rachel Pyper<br />Jaron Ellingson<br />Jackie Patterson<br />Jill Cook<br />Kaj R Johnson<br />Logan P Groscost<br />Skyler C Baize<br />Jonathan B Stones<br />Kyler B Fackrell<br />Korttney PhillipsDaniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-49410553052148266452010-11-09T10:57:00.001-07:002010-11-09T10:59:27.535-07:00Verbum NovumThe word of today is Disastertastrophy.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-52912636211460842672010-11-04T23:34:00.009-07:002012-09-26T01:13:35.245-07:00DIYToday I built something. I like building things. Girls like building things too. Like cakes and clothes and creative things. Boys like building things. But not like cakes. Other things. Well, since I'm leaving on my mission, I need to pack up all of my things. The hardest things to pack up are all of my musical equipment. One in particular is the big guitar amplifier I practically stole almost a year ago. It didn't come with a case, and cases for amplifiers are hundreds of dollars. Ya, that wasn't going to happen. So I decided to build a case for it. I drew it up, went to home depot, shenagled my materials, and voila! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-x_hztUEiiKpYmiB9Kf-N6YTABarxhNQqeLOti9VWsnS7QoBSGY4pZIzhrxh0BID1sRXF840kZZFvnQASF019oz48csBWuk-yLhAixrzVtsRQTawe0d33dxRQ6Fx3IYhh5FjRrXFixKN/s1600/IMG_1022.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-x_hztUEiiKpYmiB9Kf-N6YTABarxhNQqeLOti9VWsnS7QoBSGY4pZIzhrxh0BID1sRXF840kZZFvnQASF019oz48csBWuk-yLhAixrzVtsRQTawe0d33dxRQ6Fx3IYhh5FjRrXFixKN/s200/IMG_1022.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535952539954161010" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzKz6IIzTDGFKoWcd184_7EC6gY03kn-PSXMHXNvp5GNKeAVSowPOddBR_A9ak37qOpEtOfC-_NIYtIplCdp_ZSomLog0nRRfd_31jUW3gRIPm3rPBqJvpRS2s5P0VLXNCiP5OnkHF4-J/s1600/IMG_1025.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtzKz6IIzTDGFKoWcd184_7EC6gY03kn-PSXMHXNvp5GNKeAVSowPOddBR_A9ak37qOpEtOfC-_NIYtIplCdp_ZSomLog0nRRfd_31jUW3gRIPm3rPBqJvpRS2s5P0VLXNCiP5OnkHF4-J/s200/IMG_1025.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535952562023938994" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsL9hgWtPus6IsS-TasJeBFantfb_d-Y8b_qHOev8nzyOAePvX1i2RGZVyF8lKS_dqo8Zs6sdUjHcDhkjZtJ9o5gh_oCQwqQDNZDioM0gMp9rHCxxMVq-o2hKVyQFo7oiUKv_kJB-aJNI7/s1600/IMG_1026.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsL9hgWtPus6IsS-TasJeBFantfb_d-Y8b_qHOev8nzyOAePvX1i2RGZVyF8lKS_dqo8Zs6sdUjHcDhkjZtJ9o5gh_oCQwqQDNZDioM0gMp9rHCxxMVq-o2hKVyQFo7oiUKv_kJB-aJNI7/s200/IMG_1026.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535952558276902898" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufogwV64crdZ1E6HJq3kxE3C7oSahR1fRI8Fs-Mdki_F7CTONQO_viyukHAhr2zx138xB9z3YCOR1rLCbZcVeyRNDWicLj9r_INhGCjvGZ37weblVJQvgO06w4g2GndIlvDWWyLSvhaLL/s1600/IMG_1024.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiufogwV64crdZ1E6HJq3kxE3C7oSahR1fRI8Fs-Mdki_F7CTONQO_viyukHAhr2zx138xB9z3YCOR1rLCbZcVeyRNDWicLj9r_INhGCjvGZ37weblVJQvgO06w4g2GndIlvDWWyLSvhaLL/s200/IMG_1024.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535952548957026194" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipy-ZmajTxHKh1VqQtykGS4aon2FJacbEeqh9XFl_m1QxyBmCpDMP66e4gpcwHWJloHR_JYs1Bi-e3Iajeg5-YxLfpDEh7AfvMieLEUb3W6B-wS8a9-7nKRow73zPRyr8RFAGe_ailKNrz/s1600/IMG_1023.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipy-ZmajTxHKh1VqQtykGS4aon2FJacbEeqh9XFl_m1QxyBmCpDMP66e4gpcwHWJloHR_JYs1Bi-e3Iajeg5-YxLfpDEh7AfvMieLEUb3W6B-wS8a9-7nKRow73zPRyr8RFAGe_ailKNrz/s200/IMG_1023.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535952543887316562" /></a><br />I think it looks rather nice. I hope it gets your approval. <br /><br /><br /><br />So, because of this, I decided take a couple of pictures of different things I've made and post them! Hope you enjoy.<br /><br />My Blanket<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAj4x9t-Id346knbpxjW8DHWX7bP8EPV7qUMsMMwlZDoSVX3bmPxS2P8rIk-fQjvYMXiAcB8fAk4BcL_gMvFxQtnIITMRLQlKaQ_MvNhpV_BXrXJqaEyqEhyphenhyphenVuZwxFZcPk01ATCIGLk2Jm/s1600/IMG_0960.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAj4x9t-Id346knbpxjW8DHWX7bP8EPV7qUMsMMwlZDoSVX3bmPxS2P8rIk-fQjvYMXiAcB8fAk4BcL_gMvFxQtnIITMRLQlKaQ_MvNhpV_BXrXJqaEyqEhyphenhyphenVuZwxFZcPk01ATCIGLk2Jm/s200/IMG_0960.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535953483446670466" /></a><br /><br />Some Jewelry Including:<br />A belt buckle with my nickname.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWihOEjjrVXUhnNH1iVpZ7hQZPyfDC6svExhzY6knmuuci6uvcOsdHIxJL8FiEnEgbkJXNPzCuOaKczGKWoH14uAW8NtARKbdF96amsvRoIwhy3Qi6GvhNXvFNqsiDhpNhWuIEBWYUgPNx/s1600/IMG_0968.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWihOEjjrVXUhnNH1iVpZ7hQZPyfDC6svExhzY6knmuuci6uvcOsdHIxJL8FiEnEgbkJXNPzCuOaKczGKWoH14uAW8NtARKbdF96amsvRoIwhy3Qi6GvhNXvFNqsiDhpNhWuIEBWYUgPNx/s200/IMG_0968.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535953970754702162" /></a><br />Ring made out of a guitar string<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcaQygVE_Bt6P0XxxKyeeaWNZG6FWyEN2ctqV9vXJmaJgrExOgAlJx5jEh8t73AecBV3HZ0Ysu6boMjfD616_JJLJBurgt1ykblutHv92yatLQi2z0RGreZ8dyuD1PoNwYG_1wkNHjIqV/s1600/IMG_0965.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcaQygVE_Bt6P0XxxKyeeaWNZG6FWyEN2ctqV9vXJmaJgrExOgAlJx5jEh8t73AecBV3HZ0Ysu6boMjfD616_JJLJBurgt1ykblutHv92yatLQi2z0RGreZ8dyuD1PoNwYG_1wkNHjIqV/s200/IMG_0965.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535953963172165586" /></a><br /><br />A Light Saber<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8qJL61SC1XWsgVID3UD2nHyeKnkpOUKFHs2WIyQP8yk7r0XqgbDJiCthi6MCuh3lfKMeBTDpYHJyVYFLbp303j-6HSmZvKmlmQpYql-KTooDYEsfDEwbKz7NOsLhFqdfWz72NbPM1Ghj/s1600/IMG_0967.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8qJL61SC1XWsgVID3UD2nHyeKnkpOUKFHs2WIyQP8yk7r0XqgbDJiCthi6MCuh3lfKMeBTDpYHJyVYFLbp303j-6HSmZvKmlmQpYql-KTooDYEsfDEwbKz7NOsLhFqdfWz72NbPM1Ghj/s200/IMG_0967.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535954631300197250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGoLUDB0sLSpKOU_sod4Tjj5RB74vjYmI1N89Ib_GNdg9gqp9DYRuvnSJj2po_ZNGKoW06_LnaA1mQbot5VpRt35LuBIQElqeHHykvruvWE3g6gPpTdfE4OYhCcYGPap1J6AjNyALQQQr/s1600/IMG_0966.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGoLUDB0sLSpKOU_sod4Tjj5RB74vjYmI1N89Ib_GNdg9gqp9DYRuvnSJj2po_ZNGKoW06_LnaA1mQbot5VpRt35LuBIQElqeHHykvruvWE3g6gPpTdfE4OYhCcYGPap1J6AjNyALQQQr/s200/IMG_0966.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535954627057086482" /></a><br /><br />A Cabin<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqRXpScNZOpazCfQfb7x0gwzf8NGDzd81UI19yQXnk79OFiPAjJMwUf-tftmoAa8S2alDKjduVe6mSan6Bw0gKWXIZ4SQVB2RoUNl5rZX4NiiUMz6n0ILDCpFu_jLZ_mSEo1L_bQUA-c9/s1600/IMG_0154.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqRXpScNZOpazCfQfb7x0gwzf8NGDzd81UI19yQXnk79OFiPAjJMwUf-tftmoAa8S2alDKjduVe6mSan6Bw0gKWXIZ4SQVB2RoUNl5rZX4NiiUMz6n0ILDCpFu_jLZ_mSEo1L_bQUA-c9/s200/IMG_0154.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535956261483327570" /></a><br /><br />A bowling pin lamp(Actual Bowling Pin!!)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu39EVuYAsUjOy6RLnIvzEPWOmTbB3LSk_j6VWG2y5nfbRzwqDlS2ukryo7VcpBnwQcy7ETnw4QuHXs-yfKoEGNw_2v8f1HtySF8m02Rkm6U7fOXTTjnsgX3WA1MYLH9vz-lD7pi6ELha/s1600/IMG_0958.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu39EVuYAsUjOy6RLnIvzEPWOmTbB3LSk_j6VWG2y5nfbRzwqDlS2ukryo7VcpBnwQcy7ETnw4QuHXs-yfKoEGNw_2v8f1HtySF8m02Rkm6U7fOXTTjnsgX3WA1MYLH9vz-lD7pi6ELha/s200/IMG_0958.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535955147947479234" /></a><br /><br />A CD<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pPpLW-vcClRm3df5g7PaxIDtILcBiX5Sx94JrYql9-pAoOU0ksjTYydX1ui9IhL4WPESoqSBxWF2pKb8ZrkDhJktuAkZ-l0hpf2VD1qv5828BJXd53P0LsV-BVDPorn9gp3txlShVXyO/s1600/IMG_0961.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0pPpLW-vcClRm3df5g7PaxIDtILcBiX5Sx94JrYql9-pAoOU0ksjTYydX1ui9IhL4WPESoqSBxWF2pKb8ZrkDhJktuAkZ-l0hpf2VD1qv5828BJXd53P0LsV-BVDPorn9gp3txlShVXyO/s200/IMG_0961.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535955844773972290" /></a>Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-22526049641426323212010-11-04T00:34:00.002-07:002010-11-04T00:59:45.332-07:00Little RandomsSchool is only dumb because of homework.<br />I used to think Kim was hott, now I just think she's stupid.<br />Jill was really nice to help out with the ticket.<br />I don't like people who like people.<br />When I was introduced yesterday to a group of Junior High students, the introducer said, "That's the boy I kissed on stage."<br />I need to finish the Glenview Ward Song.<br />Miya was ultra informative to the extent that I didn't want to know.<br />Girls would like me if I looked like my brother.<br />I built a case for my Marshall Special Edition amp head.<br />Joseph is going to be great.<br />Sometimes when girls are completely not interested they act shy as if they were nervous around the guy they liked.<br />I love seminary teachers.<br />Is it weird to baptize a boy who dated a girl you liked before you liked her?<br />Dating is stupid.<br />When I'm prideful I think that people don't think.<br />"Your Response Ability is your Responsibility." Daniel John Merkley<br />I saw Tina and Katie's little sister at Taylor Junior High and couldn't remember her name and then realized that she's at Taylor and not Brimhall. Oh how fun it would have been to have Katie and Kristina at Taylor wiff me.<br />When people hold up three fingers I cringe and think six.<br />I'm going to be the first ever.<br />Putting away all of your stuff for two years is not easy.<br />The battery on my ipod is dying of old age. 6+ years. It's your ipod's great-Grandpa.<br />If only she knew.<br />Brian and I are emotionally identical.<br />"Have fun on your date tomorrow with Jacob."<br />Conflict is always created by the lack of communication.<br />Sometimes it's not the saying, but the 'not needing to say' that says the most.<br />I put those two next two each other for irony's sake.<br />I had some eggnog tonight.<br />I enjoy musical puns. Lyrically as well as others.<br />I bought a drink from Sonic even though they would've given it to me free for voting. <br />My four year older brother dating my scripture partner.<br />I was told I was a three on a ten point scale of attractiveness.<br />Don't make me separate you two!<br />Rhett and Link are funny.<br />Luke and Tadd are funny.<br />I'll be gone in four weeks.<br />My dad and I watch 24 together.<br />Do you have to wear virtual bowling shoes when you go virtual bowling?<br />I've never amazed myself. I think partly because I always thought I was the Little Train that could.<br />I don't like sugar cereal that much anymore. Oatmeal Squares, Honey Bunches of Oats, and Life are my favorites right now.<br />I don't know what I'd do without ya!Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-56125939149594214172010-10-26T22:45:00.002-07:002010-10-26T23:15:22.627-07:00Thirty ThingsI'm leaving on my mission. No seriously. It's like a month away. Here are thirty things about life right now:<br /><br />1. About every other week I go up to my cabin for a few days to work. Our final inspection is in about one week and then we don't have to worry about anything!!<br /> <br />2. I've decided to go to the Temple every single day until I leave. I've invited Nay to go with me and we're pretty excited.<br /><br />3. I've been thinking about my priests a lot lately. They're awesome. And I realized that they'll be on mission when I come home.<br /><br />4. Rosson got his mission call to the Philippians! That's crazy cool.<br /><br />5. Brian and I played catch last week and we were really sore from it. That's sad.<br /><br />6. Dates are super lame now. When you're getting ready to go on a mission, everything to do with girls seems super pointless. No wonder rm's act all crazy right when they get back.<br /><br />7. Even though dates seem so stupid, I still have urges to pair off with girls. Well... just a couple of them that I don't really know.<br /><br />8. Brother Janes is unbelievably good at table tennis.<br /><br />9. I watch lots of movies. They're much better than tv shows. Shows you have to get into it for the long run. There's nothing better than sitting down for two hours to watch a good movie and not have to worry about it later.<br /><br />10. I need to go to the doctor because my knee hurts real bad.<br /><br />11. I still haven't really purchased anything for my mission. It's probably time to go shopping.<br /><br />12. I'm afraid that people are going to steal my stuff when I go on my mission. Actually, I'm getting rid of all my clothes. If you want some, let me know.<br /><br />13. Shaving your face is real annoying. I'm so happy I never do it, even though I need to.<br /><br />14. I bought a midi controller and it came in the mail this past week. It's awesome. I can make it sound like whatever I want.<br /><br />15. At times in your life some of the friendships you have seem so pointless and all you want is a new friend.<br /><br />16. Brother Halls is my favorite. Even more than Sister Halls and Sister Brown and Brother McCarter and Sister Pond and Sister Taylor.<br /><br />17. I haven't made a shake in over a week and I really want one.<br /><br />18. When people ask me if I'm excited to go on my mission, I look at them with a blank face and say, "Not really." Most Stupedistsisist question of all times.<br /><br />19. It's very possible to hate school and love learning. School has to be the worst conduit for learning. Try it on your own sometime and you'll love it.<br /><br />20. Jaron Ellingson is an outstanding person. I wish he wasn't busy and we could do things.<br /><br />21. It's weird to think that I'm still going to be the same person on my mission.<br /><br />22. Swimming isn't all that great. It's just an excuse to lose the clothing.<br /><br />23. I've never kissed anyone. Most girls act like that's cute and precious until you try and date them.<br /><br />24. Some people don't know me by my real name. That's weird.<br /><br />25. I recorded Mr. Baser singing and rapping the other night and I think I'm going to use it as blackmail. If you want a good grade, let me know.<br /><br />26. People are so easy to read and understand if you stop and thing about them. You can tell who's strong-willed, who's not, who's nice, who's worthwhile.<br /><br />27. Being healthy is important, but working out is stupid. It says so in the bible.<br /><br />28. The Torah is always and has only been hand written and each copy is worth thousands of dollars. How sad would it be if you didn't have the money to own your own scriptures.<br /><br />29. I really wish I knew who I was marrying. It's hard because I know what I'm marrying. I love loving. I want someone to hold forever.<br /><br />30. Learning things other than the Gospel and mission stuff right now seems so pointless because there is no way I'm going to remember it after two years.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-54221050581386070942010-10-08T23:29:00.001-07:002010-10-09T00:24:05.060-07:00Favorite ThingsJust a couple of my favorite things and pictures associating with them!<br /><br />Victorian Style Wallpaper<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTddlMSv8rAi54w9q3tAEZRZzSSVoQ0KpfUPzhtyjjXkbmfI6em6sF198KZ9Q9Dnx9bIB4We3T7EeS9fLK1xJ3Ml7Y9_rxi-n7AHIGMVKB8zc2-4cZJ1CKL8wzvWx6d8JY2t18FZFMxSxR/s1600/Victorian+Wallpaper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 188px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTddlMSv8rAi54w9q3tAEZRZzSSVoQ0KpfUPzhtyjjXkbmfI6em6sF198KZ9Q9Dnx9bIB4We3T7EeS9fLK1xJ3Ml7Y9_rxi-n7AHIGMVKB8zc2-4cZJ1CKL8wzvWx6d8JY2t18FZFMxSxR/s200/Victorian+Wallpaper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525932269845987762" /></a><br /><br />Microphones<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPATCFJKiGoi305W-qgCAUmNDFbjy9gPOy-0XvuPjAjgRb_cYsbBvw_fUDIj8d2UHpprYi35NfYRec7DMzmuISMSi_He13XLb4N4yCJk-1-83EPRm2yAfSDLkM-xg1d2GYwKEKVHskkDm/s1600/v67i.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 56px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPATCFJKiGoi305W-qgCAUmNDFbjy9gPOy-0XvuPjAjgRb_cYsbBvw_fUDIj8d2UHpprYi35NfYRec7DMzmuISMSi_He13XLb4N4yCJk-1-83EPRm2yAfSDLkM-xg1d2GYwKEKVHskkDm/s200/v67i.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525932406304974930" /></a><br /><br />Sean Connery's Voice.... and Hair.... and Movies.... and Him.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5BrxFu3pW_XtXFXT57F6kws7S9hyphenhyphenmEJDR-nikq-NGJ8P2Oaavtx9wn_AU9yZ7mOIzOTsRfh5gohPWuboGJAbeZvzELiAQlNhoaGfN1CVICbQUTBcYHSXQlfs2VNZOZXfYXi3FMsfATuK/s1600/sean_connery_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5BrxFu3pW_XtXFXT57F6kws7S9hyphenhyphenmEJDR-nikq-NGJ8P2Oaavtx9wn_AU9yZ7mOIzOTsRfh5gohPWuboGJAbeZvzELiAQlNhoaGfN1CVICbQUTBcYHSXQlfs2VNZOZXfYXi3FMsfATuK/s200/sean_connery_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525936397107010834" /></a><br /><br />Pictures<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiY0oIG46NEhyZoNm36ptre2M0Go-0Aw27Hk83wkwM4-eIjhyFLAmz-NUTbdHD7fUhONgHPPbPLGdVFXyOMu04uxyoDqicr7FGKFwTCitaPGfCNNIiTBOVXy-1Tbr6n2tL2Cj8jhqndIm/s1600/old_camera.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTiY0oIG46NEhyZoNm36ptre2M0Go-0Aw27Hk83wkwM4-eIjhyFLAmz-NUTbdHD7fUhONgHPPbPLGdVFXyOMu04uxyoDqicr7FGKFwTCitaPGfCNNIiTBOVXy-1Tbr6n2tL2Cj8jhqndIm/s200/old_camera.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525933139192622322" /></a><br /><br />Stars<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8LZgnwPcLQ0minLgeuDQLThKWS5Zc5z-VAJWoCmb3s2mgnuwd7uER6zWnSFbcsbdiHPKN573X-pH7KYXYm1qbg4bOKLAsOox7yeUENA9dMkdX8ZV4V6aS8Ct2yPcxZ8TZt0rDFxdhzOa/s1600/0_heic0702a_h.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8LZgnwPcLQ0minLgeuDQLThKWS5Zc5z-VAJWoCmb3s2mgnuwd7uER6zWnSFbcsbdiHPKN573X-pH7KYXYm1qbg4bOKLAsOox7yeUENA9dMkdX8ZV4V6aS8Ct2yPcxZ8TZt0rDFxdhzOa/s200/0_heic0702a_h.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525933530282972338" /></a><br /><br />Electronics Without Wires<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2gXL2BO6pTbOAFrs2UZpwMguDxS_-wAlu8sul2GmfIe4IvmY4RQLY5kftbKm9VkgVHsZV5Csp95aW-XC40falWjhS_yJq3tDx2KZ45q3bRGgWat4IPy8r4bpCK2WWutO100dA46L9idk/s1600/wireless.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM2gXL2BO6pTbOAFrs2UZpwMguDxS_-wAlu8sul2GmfIe4IvmY4RQLY5kftbKm9VkgVHsZV5Csp95aW-XC40falWjhS_yJq3tDx2KZ45q3bRGgWat4IPy8r4bpCK2WWutO100dA46L9idk/s200/wireless.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525935218291523186" /></a><br /><br />People that Remember<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjhLcpb7WVr_QanW_RK4JuI0VxnXAQ3C2UQ-Iw_8SeZkqUac1Bl4-I-p9aBUhCGTNe4dxHIFHuJDmpHFpTB6vKX9cxVBxD2k44bSXb-HYbbCqH9GISAFUOt2XP2nVX3DH5hcPpp_QUsME/s1600/remember.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjhLcpb7WVr_QanW_RK4JuI0VxnXAQ3C2UQ-Iw_8SeZkqUac1Bl4-I-p9aBUhCGTNe4dxHIFHuJDmpHFpTB6vKX9cxVBxD2k44bSXb-HYbbCqH9GISAFUOt2XP2nVX3DH5hcPpp_QUsME/s200/remember.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525935489094461122" /></a><br /><br />Zooey Deschanel<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDRnQ1vMg5ULEweUhF4q4W4eAUtR8ZHXJGnWiEoyrM1KfYkptar9YwRD_KW37pFoFioUG9IRM7VQ0pOwWANzGSkQ_mhiqua_CUh27MfKRABGvRBetHWIuuyjm3CZV280WhoY8EaCdrXBu/s1600/13299d1249602972-zooey_deschanel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 163px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDRnQ1vMg5ULEweUhF4q4W4eAUtR8ZHXJGnWiEoyrM1KfYkptar9YwRD_KW37pFoFioUG9IRM7VQ0pOwWANzGSkQ_mhiqua_CUh27MfKRABGvRBetHWIuuyjm3CZV280WhoY8EaCdrXBu/s200/13299d1249602972-zooey_deschanel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525934126640176706" /></a><br /><br />This Movie<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6Bxv8rw1ZoVXrWvU0yrco7ohFmsUjtlUsv6-WhpgoMDxNP48YvH1Wb92aQ9OJ-5AKPsMcseKEhxdX_Fx8LjwmSnZUAdWtvQcbjSlkFuF76mrQJG3Fa20Y7qc9BfQcKo-H_Vgf5Jdm02h/s1600/2010_inception-wide.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6Bxv8rw1ZoVXrWvU0yrco7ohFmsUjtlUsv6-WhpgoMDxNP48YvH1Wb92aQ9OJ-5AKPsMcseKEhxdX_Fx8LjwmSnZUAdWtvQcbjSlkFuF76mrQJG3Fa20Y7qc9BfQcKo-H_Vgf5Jdm02h/s200/2010_inception-wide.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525934691787420242" /></a><br /><br />Colors.... <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8k0ODHGnbXiYCWtGzAZksC377ns1Z7Ou22PIfZcrqGSiRgY3nrjmgNnS2XKB4MHAgDlubTpZIn1Jo9PTurPJYQLxvtA0N0QXwlcrog_E52PztKhHzGhjpBSqbBnbWs20sye_wZ7GiarOb/s1600/Crayons_1_4_by_midnighteskye.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8k0ODHGnbXiYCWtGzAZksC377ns1Z7Ou22PIfZcrqGSiRgY3nrjmgNnS2XKB4MHAgDlubTpZIn1Jo9PTurPJYQLxvtA0N0QXwlcrog_E52PztKhHzGhjpBSqbBnbWs20sye_wZ7GiarOb/s200/Crayons_1_4_by_midnighteskye.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525938388141385442" /></a><br /><br />especially the big 64 pack with the sharpeners that I never had.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hfrsJl84D8JEXvuCH_QNrmyvGbA20t98fNOdcsn2zfGBwyWp0G0z-mXNd0HyE74MitQRbngSdYknyybkrGWguCWOk3XplxtY3-vWZqrM_OgZsriehKK7ZsTUqUASY2aRbgqAH1bYKfpF/s1600/Crayola_1st_No64.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hfrsJl84D8JEXvuCH_QNrmyvGbA20t98fNOdcsn2zfGBwyWp0G0z-mXNd0HyE74MitQRbngSdYknyybkrGWguCWOk3XplxtY3-vWZqrM_OgZsriehKK7ZsTUqUASY2aRbgqAH1bYKfpF/s200/Crayola_1st_No64.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525937768416426738" /></a><br /><br />Scary Things<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXllQD_a1smcF5FhElEudep5vQZk5y48NA7L2GCCAZiO8X7DWoUz5nzVtwtTzjxYXgLCZA2GdtfdtCrzPzu8cIIATK_DS9Kg5StqXL4JlE4Vrt1KfKwiVO_wgCSgILGPzgZrQcpXpBpf6/s1600/Homecoming+Day+Activity+2009+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXllQD_a1smcF5FhElEudep5vQZk5y48NA7L2GCCAZiO8X7DWoUz5nzVtwtTzjxYXgLCZA2GdtfdtCrzPzu8cIIATK_DS9Kg5StqXL4JlE4Vrt1KfKwiVO_wgCSgILGPzgZrQcpXpBpf6/s200/Homecoming+Day+Activity+2009+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525939871794997634" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRfocYwzUW_ATu6Ea3o0xaTEQ30JhCVW54j31Uy2xtuy2OAh0zS6cKy-k8WwSo8mlKpeGFMN_N4aa7c2kwZdBuSloqX-dCuNXKR1JjGghyUVtJOdAD9JAP3SEpOzvvzFsTl9NOsdX6Mi5/s1600/100_0219.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRfocYwzUW_ATu6Ea3o0xaTEQ30JhCVW54j31Uy2xtuy2OAh0zS6cKy-k8WwSo8mlKpeGFMN_N4aa7c2kwZdBuSloqX-dCuNXKR1JjGghyUVtJOdAD9JAP3SEpOzvvzFsTl9NOsdX6Mi5/s200/100_0219.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525939992775359170" /></a><br /><br />Sunsets<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wS8Ii3jyDfEs2Xe73-onAwZNKDy4_Hu0Y86_-MKqKKdA7mZu8taGCRS7UUz7aubYsGLq3B3M-mrygg8lfe78cyEaBimOlOssynnF1PadFZYARcu2gPD9s_Am8_E-UDNyBuDm2sDNI9OS/s1600/IMG_0611.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wS8Ii3jyDfEs2Xe73-onAwZNKDy4_Hu0Y86_-MKqKKdA7mZu8taGCRS7UUz7aubYsGLq3B3M-mrygg8lfe78cyEaBimOlOssynnF1PadFZYARcu2gPD9s_Am8_E-UDNyBuDm2sDNI9OS/s200/IMG_0611.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525940701717377826" /></a><br /><br />Theremins<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbvkCeK-SeUQuaU-6B0oH_IKNJzlsXKWu05ZlBoqFNBi_by6uV254k2EFCloKFWcHe_7Ymjn5KYP3506E5lGXNUsJIOqPpXU9uFt_90kRCleYbNrdKR3ahMq0zHjnDda71sYyXWl8kvQg/s1600/theremin1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbvkCeK-SeUQuaU-6B0oH_IKNJzlsXKWu05ZlBoqFNBi_by6uV254k2EFCloKFWcHe_7Ymjn5KYP3506E5lGXNUsJIOqPpXU9uFt_90kRCleYbNrdKR3ahMq0zHjnDda71sYyXWl8kvQg/s200/theremin1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525941339817610674" /></a><br /><br />Courage<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZsVsSmDzWdocU7nKMtgNi9mkTNk7_TmB-1LdX-QCGLxFqe6RspmvjvM2p6vm-SXdDjS1TqrykzsSdZdTHXLN8swISZuOPrTbcPGNA2UHx-4uCvJoDfbxsVK0qFH7jOzT6kzJI3KtvSAb/s1600/courage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZsVsSmDzWdocU7nKMtgNi9mkTNk7_TmB-1LdX-QCGLxFqe6RspmvjvM2p6vm-SXdDjS1TqrykzsSdZdTHXLN8swISZuOPrTbcPGNA2UHx-4uCvJoDfbxsVK0qFH7jOzT6kzJI3KtvSAb/s200/courage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525942202437965826" /></a><br /><br />And how about we end with Friends who go on Missions<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmdjBZLAqcqVwAMIhKu4xjzxoXfSFWvwqktKAWxfa788WMxLirUw1KSKIz-wQsCrEYNP35eNsipVBcLCPeBswNW_TekO3-j1P_RUEBjabG-DFboFBr0AP44hTDgONTMb8QbkhUjYCSc8J/s1600/60259_1405113447145_1211644766_30892249_11409_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmdjBZLAqcqVwAMIhKu4xjzxoXfSFWvwqktKAWxfa788WMxLirUw1KSKIz-wQsCrEYNP35eNsipVBcLCPeBswNW_TekO3-j1P_RUEBjabG-DFboFBr0AP44hTDgONTMb8QbkhUjYCSc8J/s200/60259_1405113447145_1211644766_30892249_11409_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525943550753756786" /></a>Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-51052484230093079912010-10-01T22:21:00.003-07:002010-10-01T23:07:40.857-07:00ArtistsDue to a recent conversation with a friend, I have decided to list my favorite music. They will be listed in order of how favorite they are.<br /><br />-Crash Kings (Met in person: including 2 Autographed T-Shirts, Autographed Album, Autographed Poster, Mike's Pick, and probably one of the first in all of Arizona to know about them. 1 1/2 years)<br />-Relient K (125+ songs)<br />-Dashboard Confessional<br />-*Fun<br />-*Tally Hall<br />-*The Junior Miss Project<br />-Bright Eyes<br />-*The Hush Sound<br />-*Favored Nation<br />-Regina Spektor<br />-Jack Johnson<br />-*Mass D<br />-Jimmy Eat World<br />-*Sweethaven<br />-*Semisonic<br />-Death Cab for Cutie<br />-*Grieving for Grace<br />-*Little & Ashley<br />-Snow Patrol<br />-The Format<br />-*Limbeck<br />-*Rick Hale<br />-Big Pete Pearson & The Rhythm Room All-Stars<br />-She & Him/Zooey Deschanel<br />-Kinch<br />-Suburban Legends<br />-*Reuben's Accomplice<br />-Unwritten Law<br />-Ben Folds<br />-Vitamin String Quartet<br />-The Postal Service<br />-Art for Starters<br />-Carolina Liar<br />-Five for Fighting<br />-Joey Cape/Tony Sly<br />-*Sam Means<br />-*Dos Guapos De Fuego<br />-Secondhand Serenade<br />-Aaron Lines<br />-Aquabats<br />-Ben Kweller<br />-The Wonders<br />-The Killers<br />-Sherwood<br />-Cake<br />-Rescue the Future<br />-Coldplay<br />-Travis<br />-Waking Ashland<br />-The Hoodies<br />-The Kooks<br />-Stephen Speaks<br />-The Association<br />-Winston<br />-Matt Costa<br />-Plaid Quartet<br />-*Regular Heroes<br />-Joy Williams: I'm In Love With You<br />-The Rocket Summer<br />-Chris Merritt<br />-*Chris Rice<br />-Simon & Garfunkel<br />-Vampire Weekend<br />-Switchfoot<br />-Three Dog Night<br />-Unsung Zeros<br />-Chicago<br />-Parachute<br /><br />*Not Popular, But Should Be<br /><br />Artists listed in order by how favorite they are. Individual songs or characteristics of certain bands may be more favorite, but my knowledge of the artist as a whole defined my judgment. If you have any questions about the artists or how to obtain their music, you're welcome to contact me and I'll point you to their website etc.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-76444585050369995252010-09-26T00:00:00.003-07:002010-09-26T00:11:23.001-07:00FrihoffHey everyone! Tonight I write about Brian Nielson. Let me introduce you to him with a picture.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyjpKKFLCfA_Cdf_PqE2fepZl0-t5_HgDRrXt186CTaGyarVA6_H71Zee08_efCcxvf8-Zyx7Ya8PpZZufzt8MqQOPBL_U8biMtMJqqnmO_pH7TAt0_bfCXw2UAYg_vDDsHP09pZIWmI7z/s1600/Brian.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyjpKKFLCfA_Cdf_PqE2fepZl0-t5_HgDRrXt186CTaGyarVA6_H71Zee08_efCcxvf8-Zyx7Ya8PpZZufzt8MqQOPBL_U8biMtMJqqnmO_pH7TAt0_bfCXw2UAYg_vDDsHP09pZIWmI7z/s200/Brian.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521113986178084146" /></a><br />Can you say GORGEOUS!!!! I know I can. Yes, he is beautiful, and he is single. He's a stud. He sings, plays piano and trumpet. He's an athlete including baseball, basketball, weight lifting, and long distance running. He's as kind as a girl, as romantic as a novelist in the 18th century, as gentle as an angel, as pure as an unblemished lamb, and as perfect as the husband in your dreams. He's my best friend and you should love him. I can't say he's looking for a girlfriend as he just got back from his mission. In fact, he's not looking at all and is not quite used to this new life of dating and relationships. But he's a good guy, the kind every girl dreams of marrying. In fact, if I was a girl and got to choose, I would pick Brian. What can I say, he's got everything I don't. And since nobody is going to read this, I can honestly say whatevertheheck I want and it doesn't even matter. You should marry him because he's perfect. I know I'd love to hop on board and marry him too.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-8783947607601224232010-09-23T23:13:00.001-07:002010-09-23T23:17:49.928-07:00Will IWill I be<br /> as of the dust,<br /> and was I created by the one I trust?<br /> Or can I leave my past<br /> and look,<br /> until myself I find?<br /><br />Will I find,<br /> as life goes on,<br /> the reason why... and what is beyond?<br /> But somewhere here lies<br /> all the truth<br /> that one could ever know.<br /><br />Will I know<br /> and understand<br /> the eternal purpose of this great plan?<br /> Is happiness life's entirety?<br /> Or<br /> is there more to hold?<br /><br />Will I hold<br /> the one I love?<br /> For not just here, but up above?<br /> When life's end comes, I know I will see,<br /> that all that I hold,<br /> and know,<br /> and find<br /> shall remain in my heart<br /><br /> forever in me.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-25904786702992384732010-09-23T22:57:00.002-07:002010-09-23T23:12:45.850-07:00Paying the PriceTonight I blog. The substance: Dreams. I could write about dreams all night and still not talk about half of what I want to. Feel free to ask me about some of my weird ideas about dreams. Miya, I spoke to you 1 transfer ago about some of my theories with regards to dreaming and our thought processes. Tonight, I speak only relating to a quote I've tried to live my life by. <br />"Happy are those who dream dreams and are willing to pay the price to make them come true." It's meaning is very simple I think. You will be happy if you have goals and work to achieve them. But, I'm a slight bit depressed at the moment. What if we've payed all we can, and it still isn't enough to make our dream come true? What happens when you've done everything you could and it still isn't enough to achieve your dream? Was your dream flawed? How do we know what dreams and desires are worth pursuing? Or is it better to choose unsuccessfully and fail? What if "Paying the Price" begins to interfere with other aspects of your life that should not be interfered with? What if the success of your dream is determined by the choice of another and this other cannot be persuaded? Oh, how failure feels. How do you find another goal to work on after you've failed? Questions from the reaches of my soul. But the one greatest of all, What if when we achieve our goal we're not happy? When is the price too expensive?Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-46798270662886357192010-09-23T01:08:00.002-07:002010-09-23T01:13:06.987-07:00Today, I believe, is a good day for being you.<br />And here, I should say, is a good place for being you.<br />Any reason that I think of is a good one for being you.<br />Today, I believe, is a good day for being you.<br /> And you are just in time for the very best part of today!<br />That is the part where you and me<br />become we. =]Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-273446664667434722010-09-22T00:25:00.003-07:002012-09-26T01:19:47.491-07:00Scripture Study!!I came a cross several scriptures I have just read that I made an AWESOME correlation with. I'm going to post these scriptures for all to read. Good luck and may God be with you in all your endeavors!!<br /><br />Ether 2&3<br />Genesis 6:9-22Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-68316326573696258842010-09-16T00:36:00.005-07:002010-09-16T07:33:38.485-07:00KianaIt's been so long since I've blogged! Well, by the world's standards, I bet my record is still over par for the past two months, but I need to be much better than the world's standards in many ways including this. This post will be two fold encompassing the past and the future. Sounds exciting. Here goes!<br /><br />THE PAST:<br />As would seem fit, the past comes first. I will begin by commenting on my cabin. Since retiring from living at my cabin about five weeks ago, I have made 2 trips back. One was ridiculously difficult. The project I was completing needs time to dry and I have to complete entire layers. So in order to progress the next day, I had to finish an entire layer. I began working at 7:30 AM. I had 20 minutes for breakfast and 30 minutes for lunch adding to a combined brake time of under an hour. I completed work this day at 11:47 PM. Making my work day more than 14 hours. You thought your life was tough. And when I mean work, I mean literally non-stop with no breaks. Eat it. The next day was only about 11 hours of work and I had time to take a couple of beautiful pictures of flowers which have bloomed from the summer monsoons. Here they are!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPHjjjsZSAAOiyczkAwYpAbS8zepvumefhg3ASWBu1f37XFr7rQQ867NLPcnOJk9mIhFCpNTyl4DZkWmapYxbCYehPZOVmXFXroIyTQFaFwWvgrgl0nupTVitxsYnRI3GKH5kD4HNhmEd/s1600/Sunflower.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPHjjjsZSAAOiyczkAwYpAbS8zepvumefhg3ASWBu1f37XFr7rQQ867NLPcnOJk9mIhFCpNTyl4DZkWmapYxbCYehPZOVmXFXroIyTQFaFwWvgrgl0nupTVitxsYnRI3GKH5kD4HNhmEd/s200/Sunflower.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517518438525004306" /></a><br />There are thousands of sunflowers that have popped up everywhere!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhRoW-AdvNNHsSpjZ7_HlzcfRfR85yoABgjG-6SOoGsyo5y5eNc90BDkO5qrqln2mLZDOgpRygXF76IjXfedG3_ms3M4wolwW4sc_JFmiolb7O6dQ0rxqUFpVD6MdxsYVfpL66qfwoNXC/s1600/FlowerFields.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhRoW-AdvNNHsSpjZ7_HlzcfRfR85yoABgjG-6SOoGsyo5y5eNc90BDkO5qrqln2mLZDOgpRygXF76IjXfedG3_ms3M4wolwW4sc_JFmiolb7O6dQ0rxqUFpVD6MdxsYVfpL66qfwoNXC/s200/FlowerFields.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517518426679949042" /></a><br />This wonderful little flowers cover the ground almost everywhere you walk. The brilliant yellow hints at the approach of autumn.<br /><br />This past weekend, and incredible thing happened. I was introduced to a new friend. A little bird walked up to my friend's mom while in her garage. The bird let her pet it and even hold it. Then, the bird followed her inside! It stayed with the family all day and when I arrived that night, they wanted me to take care of her. So asked my parents and took her the following day, being Sunday. On Monday, I bought her a cage with some toys and food. She is my new best friend. She plays with me no matter how busy she is. She calls me. She kisses me and cuddles with me. She watches movies with me. I hand feed her sometimes. She even showered with me today. We are inseparable. As with the flowers, I will post pictures later. Her name: Kiana. (Kee YAHN Uh). She is a Peach Faced Lovebird. They are a variety of parrot no doubt. Several years ago, a man set loose twenty of them in the valley. They are native to South Africa but they began to thrive in this new area. They have since grown to numbers more than a couple of thousand in the valley, and these beautiful birds can be found eating food all over the Phoenix Valley, and even down to Tuscon. So thrilled I met my new friend. I care for her, feed her, keep her cage clean, and play with her. And she gives me responsibility, joy, love, companionship, an appreciation for God's creations, and even a longing to be a better father. She's the thrill of my life!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-pMMqrIxbpAb4oz7gwMFltQSIMPHwcJO4T2bDb7wpw791DPuyiVsWInGDySqlKyOURtlouspD-_6zCraL5O0F8Vhcj-sZ_V106gHdXmLiqcjtjXlmbGtqdcGS0pzKTzm_EP4KrUQW_2N/s1600/IMG_0890.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE-pMMqrIxbpAb4oz7gwMFltQSIMPHwcJO4T2bDb7wpw791DPuyiVsWInGDySqlKyOURtlouspD-_6zCraL5O0F8Vhcj-sZ_V106gHdXmLiqcjtjXlmbGtqdcGS0pzKTzm_EP4KrUQW_2N/s200/IMG_0890.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517518802999179378" /></a><br />This picture does not do her justice. Her plumage is much more brilliant in real life, but the interior lighting is withholding her brilliance.<br /><br />THE FUTURE:<br />This part is very short. Just wanted to say that I have the opportunity to go to the Temple today. Yes today because it's past midnight making today Thursday. I have been granted the privilege of receiving my endowment. A gift and covenant from on high. I am so thrilled to be making this step in my life! It almost was scary because of the sacredness of the temple, we don't know much of what happens inside. I have been given comfort from a loving Father who knows of my excitement and nervousness. It is going to be an incredible opportunity.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-68010371483039157272010-09-02T23:01:00.004-07:002010-09-02T23:54:27.499-07:00CRMIn case any wary soul did not already know, I received my mission call. I have been called to serve in the California Roseville Mission! My first thoughts upon reading this was, "Where the heck is Rosevillle?" Merely seconds after this, an incredible power overcame me. My teary eyes ran free as I continued to read this special letter written to a fictitious person (Fictitious person meaning it was addressed to 'Elder Daniel John Merkley' yet I had not received the Melchezadec Priesthood. This would happen two days later.) The remainder of the letter reads as follows:<br /><br />You have been recommended as one worthy to represent the Lord as a minister of the restored gospel. You will be an official representative of the Church. As such, you will be expected to maintain the the highest standards of conduct and appearance by keeping the commandments, living mission rules, and following the counsel of your mission president. As you devote your time and attention to serving the Lord, leaving behind all other personal affairs, the Lord will bless you with increased knowledge and testimony of the Restoration and of the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ.<br /><br />Your purpose will be to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring the the end. As you serve with all your heart, might, and strength, the Lord will lead you to those who are prepared to be baptized.<br /><br />The Lord will reward you for the goodness of your life. Greater blessings and more happiness than you have yet experienced await you as you humbly and prayerfully serve the Lord in this labor of love among His children. We place in you our confidence and pray that the Lord will help you become an effective missionary.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br />Thomas S. Monson<br />President<br /><br /><br />Wow... I mean WOW!!! I couldn't even read it. Seriously, my eyes were so blurry and my voice was so shaky that stumbled through it the whole way. Most young men when they receive their calls, they take a moment to offer a prayer or do something to ask God if this is really where he wants them to serve. I didn't do this. I had already received my witness during conference. Elder Rasband of the Quorum of the Seventy spoke about his experience with mission calls. I urge you to reread this or read it for the first time. When I listened to him speak last April, I swelled up with emotions as I realized that God prepared this talk for me. I knew that this was all the assurance and witness I needed. I received testimony of my calling before I had been called. Actually, I was called long before my mortal life. Why should I question that?<br /><br />http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-1207-18,00.html<br /><br />I'm so excited to serve!! It is going to be so difficult. Seriously, my eyes have been opened just the past couple of weeks about how hard it really is. I've imagined myself as a missionary and some of the trials and temptations I will have to endure. I'm not ready. I'm seriously am not. Nothing can prepare you for the audacity of serving as a full-time missionary. But, I know that with faith, Christ can help me accomplish anything. Two of my top three all time scriptures are found in St. John. The first is chapter 14 vs. 27. The second is chapter 16 vs. 33. A dear friend reminded me of something I once told her. "Don't tell God how big your storms are, rather tell your storms how big your God is." I have the strength of Deity not only at my side, but in my blood. I have had so many wonderful examples who have gone before me. I will be joining my closest friends who are currently serving. Their names are Elder Manning, Elder Moyer, and Elder Merkley. I know it's weird. Their parents thought it would be funny if they gave them all the same first name. And more importantly, I'll be joining my brothers. Stephen, my oldest brother, served in the mission right next door to mine. In fact, on the map given me in my missionary packet, three of the areas my brother served in were on my map. I guarantee that I will see someone that my brother saw while on his mission. And I will be joining my other brother Jacob. He is currently serving in the Tallahassee Florida Mission. I won't see him for more than 20 months. And even crazier, Jacob and Stephen missed each other by three weeks. In fact, they were both in the Salt Lake airport only 1 day apart. So all three of us won't be together for 70 months. But... It's still worth it. I cannot wait to serve. That's literally what I'll be doing. It's not my two years. Check this out. For tithing, God asks 1/10 of all we earn. As a missionary, typically, you turn 20 right in the middle of your two year mission. 1/10? Crazy. Actually, It's not. God has a plan and this is my part of that plan. To bring to pass the Immortality and Eternal Life of man. I'm helping with that last part because this is My work I have been called to. And it will be My joy and glory to bring this to pass.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3hbROdbJeAXRWPBMbF3rsk68uB-TOLOuLMcxXGYQfCRF4jA5YAVSmtKnQ_m0NSM6-vCzBJ41o1wwRFR-isfTOe9ooAKyu2jaIKfp6kzKEUUST7nnS7eBvpVQLM7xToeVfp0JgxKM-y_u/s1600/CAL+ROS+LOGO.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3hbROdbJeAXRWPBMbF3rsk68uB-TOLOuLMcxXGYQfCRF4jA5YAVSmtKnQ_m0NSM6-vCzBJ41o1wwRFR-isfTOe9ooAKyu2jaIKfp6kzKEUUST7nnS7eBvpVQLM7xToeVfp0JgxKM-y_u/s200/CAL+ROS+LOGO.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512575710316530418" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rVhKg5ZBmhhAmQJ8yygENWdwyOlfOHJ4MOIyjLhc3S4SxqSGpKasp0q0iDlY5etE8-w5Wh1MOtcnebB7w8Sjs_9xcz_02DApspMyAZ5wSKp43g2Zp36g6t5Ya4XZuDWSqgx6vaRq11NZ/s1600/Mission+Map1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rVhKg5ZBmhhAmQJ8yygENWdwyOlfOHJ4MOIyjLhc3S4SxqSGpKasp0q0iDlY5etE8-w5Wh1MOtcnebB7w8Sjs_9xcz_02DApspMyAZ5wSKp43g2Zp36g6t5Ya4XZuDWSqgx6vaRq11NZ/s200/Mission+Map1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512575418895290754" /></a>Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-15522964804899525362010-08-27T22:11:00.008-07:002010-08-27T23:38:38.470-07:00Best Dressed: The Male TypeI fancy clothing. A lot actually. I'm not sure where I got it because it definitely was not my parents. None-the-less, I love good clothing. I pride myself a little bit in a few of my outfits. In fact, if you knew me in Junior High, you may have had specific names for much of my attire. The former band Mass D had a weekly ritual entitled "Not So Casual Tuesday" which was in part inspired by the writer of this blog. That would be me. =]. So for today's entry, I would like to share with you some of my favorite things when it comes to the classy, fancy, and fabulous of Men's Clothing as well as some points and tips for looking your best.<br /><br />First up on our list is the v neck t shirt with suit coat. Usually worn best when the suit coat is a darker shade, specifically gray and a dark jean, not too blue.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO0sW_L6dWAyYoxlxCANhexepphhzL_f3b8-XqrDqwmGinsAA1EUorBAeHl-0B2-6pBLLzstpFsa0oisjsGbzqRJtxlG1AE6HzCEdkzipyRp4-qWv5ac3edh3gO9ogbGUa20FaQ088zDS/s1600/FP_4469217_RIJ_DEAR_JOHN_020110_a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 124px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkO0sW_L6dWAyYoxlxCANhexepphhzL_f3b8-XqrDqwmGinsAA1EUorBAeHl-0B2-6pBLLzstpFsa0oisjsGbzqRJtxlG1AE6HzCEdkzipyRp4-qWv5ac3edh3gO9ogbGUa20FaQ088zDS/s200/FP_4469217_RIJ_DEAR_JOHN_020110_a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510342824795104834" /></a><br />I wish I could've found a better picture than this, but the new google images hates me.<br /><br />The second flair I'd like to cover is the contrast pocket. Mmmm. I love this. Catchy way to insert two favs into your color scheme. Gives ample ways to match other items as well. Typically, I like to buy a pair of shoes that are one color based. Buy a shirt that same color. Then, add a pocket and shoelaces of the same color or design. It is wonderfully magnificent.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqDObtPbzipBErLsVevwRvgHy4md7zFAfAiHryvFRAiR-vA1yWtxwIaEpyH2bjp565rHXDwY92oknHD6UQ2m2O5ebPLvw8lspO_hKBvzXRfwNShIAXHP8yA8wSySmfHi54bIheoXl3_zG/s1600/original-penguin-bright-white-grey-steel-12001-9270_zoom.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqDObtPbzipBErLsVevwRvgHy4md7zFAfAiHryvFRAiR-vA1yWtxwIaEpyH2bjp565rHXDwY92oknHD6UQ2m2O5ebPLvw8lspO_hKBvzXRfwNShIAXHP8yA8wSySmfHi54bIheoXl3_zG/s200/original-penguin-bright-white-grey-steel-12001-9270_zoom.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510343441756352050" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwt2_5tTa18zp4Et9lByWYgkwzF2X8rEz_iVawTemQU4DLZy6leDYGb1csEcbVdgKXPREty9XOjIb7JHOlFL48L1au2hma_qBW_DG2xU_9ZoazPzCDEE6Y4XT60raxHkb60bRDMISjkgt3/s1600/Carhartt_Contrast_Pocket_T_Shirt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 192px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwt2_5tTa18zp4Et9lByWYgkwzF2X8rEz_iVawTemQU4DLZy6leDYGb1csEcbVdgKXPREty9XOjIb7JHOlFL48L1au2hma_qBW_DG2xU_9ZoazPzCDEE6Y4XT60raxHkb60bRDMISjkgt3/s200/Carhartt_Contrast_Pocket_T_Shirt.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510343435312600706" /></a><br />Once again, not the most attractive pictures, but I think you can see the potential.<br /><br /><br />The next item on my list is the gray jean. Yes, you know the one. Up until a couple of years ago I had no recollection that there were more colors than blue to jeans! Yet.... I'm not a huge fan of the bright colors. Blues, Purples, Yellows. They usually don't work. But the subtle gray: Perfect Bliss! No need to post a picture for this one because all the ladies know what I'm talking about. In fact, I bet you have a specific male that you're thinking about right now who wears those gray jeans like a super model. So, create your own pic!<br /><br /><br />Backpack Jacket. Yes. I said it. Wearing a backpack can be very stunning esp. when done with a wonderful jacket. For most, it recalls a memory left behind from their high school days of twitter-pation. But when done appropriately the backpack is a wonderful accessory for the male creatures of the human race.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMFNsGLfNpuRSozoqeiiwfvzsGjwy9MZdlO9VKksh3-MgvtY2pMWb34_6P5BwD9W0uOxUewSxCpKaasy8j24HLEK4NmsDSiHVD8rfkoxxaZCCRQ1LVIIjKfQkzDrhIVL7z4zu4B8dugIoP/s1600/DSC09464.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMFNsGLfNpuRSozoqeiiwfvzsGjwy9MZdlO9VKksh3-MgvtY2pMWb34_6P5BwD9W0uOxUewSxCpKaasy8j24HLEK4NmsDSiHVD8rfkoxxaZCCRQ1LVIIjKfQkzDrhIVL7z4zu4B8dugIoP/s200/DSC09464.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510343721312809890" /></a><br /><br /><br />The last outfit I'd like to cover is not an outfit at all. Actually it's an accessory. The Necktie. Used for business. Used for style. It's man's best accessory.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dZ8kq3CpY2hBDWz6Cus2TiwvT_47FNydjEphBjcQZesmX7SRL7Gq_irWRC03whSvpWul2DtV9s8l12FWsp53yerh5_DKOoXM7EB3taVn6xZNOBrPFfnoXXYOyMLS4U8I4fIwv8YAEGVB/s1600/44722_1249727582527_1809609234_526493_330131_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dZ8kq3CpY2hBDWz6Cus2TiwvT_47FNydjEphBjcQZesmX7SRL7Gq_irWRC03whSvpWul2DtV9s8l12FWsp53yerh5_DKOoXM7EB3taVn6xZNOBrPFfnoXXYOyMLS4U8I4fIwv8YAEGVB/s200/44722_1249727582527_1809609234_526493_330131_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510339168607837282" /></a><br />Ok. So ya that's me. What'd you expect! I love my clothes! Oh yes and I love rings.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0PZr-ONixo01GqVISxZSUE8Xd4ZDAwg9lXtJhv_90Z1czeOvHq5cp4YAa1YeWQlV-FntZdoCFIDIBUJbc6aUKdpOr9fvAA-x3h46LP1qRQHnKy-KOn0fCTo5R-zMQYdxv7Dd5rpcuDXr/s1600/44722_1249727342521_1809609234_526487_5433_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0PZr-ONixo01GqVISxZSUE8Xd4ZDAwg9lXtJhv_90Z1czeOvHq5cp4YAa1YeWQlV-FntZdoCFIDIBUJbc6aUKdpOr9fvAA-x3h46LP1qRQHnKy-KOn0fCTo5R-zMQYdxv7Dd5rpcuDXr/s200/44722_1249727342521_1809609234_526487_5433_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5510339744608718082" /></a><br />They're attractive especially when playing guitar even though it makes it very difficult to play. It's the price you pay and it's totally worth it!<br /><br />So all in all, clothing is a blessing! A very very important one I might add. Yet it's fun create different combinations with the different apparel you own. Most importantly, matching is key. Every single person looks at least 17% more attractive when they've chosen a color scheme as well as patterns and textures in their outfits. Tune in next time when I cover the "do nots" to mens dress, or maybe "Best Dressed: The Female Type."Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-42752073547497731242010-08-26T13:00:00.002-07:002010-08-26T13:01:56.657-07:00Template SuccessHey Hey Everyone!!<br /><br />It's been some time since I've written. Times are crazy and even this will be short. I think I've found a home!! That's write, this is my new template. I think I'm going to keep it for good. I created it from scratch actually. There are a few flaws, but all in all, I'm pleased. Hope you like it!Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-85746080309041730272010-08-21T23:27:00.002-07:002012-09-26T01:23:11.630-07:00Continued...Still too crazy. I wish I had enough energy to write. Tomorrow though. Sunday is the day.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-14076828084428904032010-08-20T23:52:00.001-07:002010-08-20T23:53:54.412-07:00What?Ok um... I can't even write anything. Too many crazy things, you have no idea. I have no idea. Not sure what to think. So I'll write tomorrow hopefully. Life is insane.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-55086849187588309642010-08-17T23:18:00.002-07:002010-08-18T00:00:01.443-07:00You Want A Story?Today was quite the eventful. Yes, quite the eventful was today. So I slept in for the first time all summer. YA boo. It was great. Woke up for scriptures, then back to sleep on the couch. Woke up a couple of hours later and started my dayzees(prncd: daisies.). Usually after sleeping in, everything is just a hinch more dreary and you don't quite accomplish much, but, today was not such. I practiced guitar for almost two hours. It was much needed as Mass D will be performing our final show ever at the end of this week and I am far from prepared. Also, you(meaning the reader) should come. WE'RE SELLING CD"S!! After I practiced I drove a car to fulfill an errand to the music shop. While there I purchased some guitar strings. I returned home and we had band practice. This is where it begins to get interesting I think. Lincoln shows up late and he came with Jill Cook. If you know what has happened, you'd understand why this was such a dramatic event. But I won't bore you with the monopolistic details. Basically it would be one sided... but I guess this is my blog so it should be one sided. Anywho, truthfully, I'm quite proud of her showing up. I wouldn't have had the guts to. I have no idea what's going on in that girls head. If anyone knows, please tell me. After practice I went to the temple where I found a pleasant surprise! A few old friends of mine were there. Including my best friend from this past year who I hadn't seen in three months. Awesome to experience that. It gave me warm fuzzies all over. Memories remembered of life and of love, always bring happiness of which I never tire of. Ya that's right I just wrote that. Anywho, Brian Nielson comes home tomorrow. BRIAN NIELSON COMES HOME TOMORROW! I can't wait. Daniel Moyer and I are going to catch lunch, do some stuff, and then meet our best bud when he comes home. Things is going down and I cannot wait.<br /><br />Daniel JohnDaniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-8824271750146725242010-08-16T22:54:00.002-07:002010-08-16T23:43:48.984-07:00One YearSo, I began this blog with the intent to focus on one topic, when I realized I had two ideas that fit under this specific title. Now that I've mentioned that here goes<br /><br />Part I:<br />I've somewhat introduced you to my wonderful group of friends. In a later blog I intend on deepening that introduction on a more personal level, but for all intents and purposes, all you need to know is that I am the youngest of this group of guys. The one just older than me being born 14 months before myself. So, growing up this was wonderful! In fact, before my 12th birthday, I had a close friend who had his license and a car available. So instead of scootering to target on a rare occasion, we were driving across town to fry's electronics or some other location on a regular basis. Let alone the food options that quickly open up to you and your tummy! Any who, being members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, a crazy phenomenon occurs. Chronologically, my friends would turn 19 and disappear. It was insane I had no idea what was going on! well, every single one of them did it. In fact some of them are missing. Although all have been spotted in random places across this hemisphere speaking up to four different languages. Two of them returned after a while and soon dispersed. One to live in Utah and the other found a rhyme (house and spouse.... or maybe it's wife and life? Both work). Well, the one just older than me disappeared on August 12th, 2009. This left me entirely alone to fend for my own. It's been barely over a year, and finally I received news that one of them might be coming home! This Wednesday even. So this year has been such a trial for me. I was left friendless and in despair. You might rebut, "You've got other friends Daniel!" To that I respond, "Yes, yes I do. Friends from school. Friends from EFY. Friends from this or that. But it's not quite the same. I value a select few of these other friendships just as much as those of the guys I grew up with, but most of these other relationships were created with a barrier. Be it distance, difference, or dissonance." My only solace was to turn to the Temple. And in doing so, I created a friendship that saved me on so many accounts. But, this isn't a happy blog. It has been tough times and they were mostly created by myself. I refused to believe that there was anyone could compete with my guys. Because of this mindset, I was not able to see so many wonderful individuals placed in my life to prove to me that there are incredible people outside of what my single sighted mind could see. So if you have ever felt neglected by me... I'm sorry. It's not because you're less than incredible. It was because of my ignorance, pride, and self pity. If it interests you, I would be more than willing to enlarge my circle of closest awesome friends ever if you would like. Let me know and we'll have a dandy of a time together.<br /><br />Part II:<br />I am a die hard believer that there isn't one person that was made for us. One person destined to be our spouse. One person so incredible that even the elements react to start our relationship in motion. In fact, I believe God rarely ever does things to persuade lovers. That is against his power. That destroys agency. You may have seen the recent film Time Travelers Wife. It was created from a novel bearing the same title written by Audrey Niffenegger. I wish to read it because I imagine it was more about the wife instead of the time traveler as the movie depicts, but I am so full of crazy thoughts, that I cannot concentrate very long to read. I seem like the type of person that would enjoy reading, but it's just frustrating to me because I would read page after page only to not have any clue what I just read at all. In the film the TT(time traveler) visits this little girl her whole life growing up. And basically, she meets his younger self, and they fall in love because of his future self who persuaded her to bascically. So as they lay together one morning, he pulls out a ring and proposes. She looks, and says "No." She then continued to say, "I mean, yes... I just wanted to see if I really had a choice." Something to that effect.<br />With that introduction let me how it applies to my life and and how it correlates with "One Year". In one statement here it is. Every year for four consecutive years starting in 8th grade, I chose who I was going to love that year. And I really really loved that person. In fact, I still really really love everyone one of the girls I have chosen. I guess you could consider love a gift of mine. Maybe I was blessed with a different capacity to love. I am in deed am a romantic. 100%. One of my female EFY Councillors told the girls in our group on Wednesday Pizza Night, "Daniel's wife is going to be so lucky. He's going to make every day seem like Valentines Day for her." I'd love to think I could make that true and will attempt to. But with that said, what about my 'choosing'? That's not romantic!!! You didn't see her and fall in love at first sight. Or some insane connection was made that aligned the planets and you just new you had to be together. Honestly some of that stuff still happened, but even after I'd made the decision sometimes. But you want to know the truth? My way is the romantic way. Shoot. Are you kidding me? 'Falling' in love? Falling is a downward descension associated with lack of stability, support, and often times has an abrupt, injuring end. So it is when we 'fall' in love. Think about this. Girls. Do you want a husband that didn't really have a choice in marrying you? It was just placed before him and he just had to follow the path? How about someone who created imaginary lists with names of girls and specific characteristics that he knew would create a happy, succesful, loving relationship. Someone whom this person really really wanted to be with. Chosen above all others. Ya, I'll say that it's better. So.... do the same! You don't have to stick to one year I guess. For me it was beneficial because I didn't have to hold onto this girl. Whether it was a negative ending and I wanted to let go, or whether it was good I didn't have more time to develop a relationship I don't want before my mission. I'm not sure that you can consider anything I've done as dating. Often I would've liked to consider it such, but it never was. It never lasted more than a couple months, usually days or weeks. It was never based on physical closeness. In fact, there are only 6 people I have kissed since after the age of accountability. My mother. My two grandmas. And my three nieces. This accomplishment, I am very proud of! Yet.... I often times wish it were different. Many relationships may have been strengthened had I gone further physically. I have known girls to completely end our relationship and not talk to me ever again the moment they discover my ambitions. What a bummer. Some of those girls were cute! But seriously, it's so hard. Not to mention the girls that were worth my time and my kisses. And the urges and desires I have to be affectionate. But... I know I have been blessed for it. At least once, a friendship has been saved and even continued to grow because I did not give in to her... hm... luscious temptation. ;). As found in the bible, "Bridle all of your passions that you may be full of love." Maybe it's my ability to restrain that gives me my added desires of love. Maybe because I've waited so long for this, that when I finally do get the opportunity after my mission, it will just be incredible. Honestly, I'm not expecting to only kiss my wife. It may happen, but I don't care. I plan on kissing when I get back from my mission. How's that. They'll still be special because of the time I've taken to prepare and trust, but, whether it's my wife or not that doesn't matter. What I do know is that I will kiss someone when I absolutely love her. Maybe marriage won't work for us, but I will love her.... I like that. I will love her.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8012498240390702159.post-58147496656658299142010-08-15T23:17:00.003-07:002010-08-15T23:58:52.802-07:00NEW TEMPLATE PLEASE!!!I need a new template background. This one is ridiculous. I thought I sorta liked it, but it reaks. So, any suggestions on good sights? Anyone know how to create your own? Any info would be delightsome.<br /><br />I have the desire to blog about something every single day. So... Tune In! I'll try not to disappoint. But, with this challenge comes the craziness of having something to blog about every day. In my endeavors to keep it intruiging, I have decided to create a new part of my blog entitled, "". Tonights episode will be called Baseball: His Story. History? Funny? Actually, not at all. Any who, here goes.<br /><br />I was born on November 22nd, 1991. My family moved to my current residence in October of 1994 at the age of 2. I was soon introduced to my new nextdoor neighbor David Jesse Lindblom. We spent our ripening years digging in dirt, rollerblading, t-ball, playing with tractors, petting lambs, riding bikes, watching arthur and reading rainbow, buying matching Velcro shoes, and eating butter we were told was ice cream. When school began, it became difficult to remain friends with David.I soon opened up my circle to my cousin down the street Ryan Paul Merkley. Ryan was a genius and full of interesting ideas. We made a radio show, Reynolds Popsicles, Mike & Ikes Candy Shop, drew pictures, played baseball, played computer games, and lots of fun times. I remember the exciting feeling of going over to Ryan's house for our newest adventure. We were always doing some project or another. We became scientist. We studied the world. We were Inventors better than Goldberg. Life was at our beckon. While the world intrigued us, we had another side. A side that science and mathematics could not explain. Baseball. How can so many receive such a thrill from such a menial game? We were entranced. We played baseball, we watched baseball, we slept baseball. We played on the computer. We created baseball games such as Ping Pong Baseball. We collected baseball cards. We had our favorite teams and players. Mine being the Astros with Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio. And Ryan's was the Indians with Jim Thome and Nomar Garciaparra. Those were the days. We made our way up through the ranks. Ryan started playing in Little League because he was 1 year older than I. I so wanted to be on Ryan's team the next year. I tried out, but was chosen by another coach. So we were best friends on opposite forces. We both became veteran players on our team, even the star pitchers. Our teams had one game left in the season, and it was against each other. Both of us were the starting pitchers. And what will you know, he beaned me! A bean is where the pitcher throws the ball at the batter an the batter gets a free base. Yes, my beloved cousin and friend hit me with the ball. Needless to say my team won. Despite the thrill of playing in a league with uniforms, the best was not on the official diamonds. Cardon Park. It's a wonderful place where our dreams came true. We would round up all the neighborhood kids by calling them on the phone in our ward directors and put together wonderful games. As time grew on, baseball's grandeur was lost to many of these comrades. But a few of us remained. The faithful survivors. There were 7 of us. And what was to come was incredible. We played baseball nonstop. We collected thousands of ballcards. Our home state got a new baseball team The Diamondbacks and we watched every televised baseball game. We created our own teams, our own league, or own championships. We kept stats of our good we were. We made our own baseball cards. We filmed our games. It was legit. The first couple of weeks of school in the fall were so terrible. We couldn't do without our summer's pastime. So, we played. Before school. We would wake up at 4:30 in the morning and play baseball before school. It was a way of life. As time continued we found the pleasure in many other sports, but baseball still held the highest place in our hearts. And while life continued on, our passion never died. As for me, my future changed drastically. I was going to be a professional baseball player. I was making it to the Big Leagues. The MLB. Major League Baseball. I played t-ball, majors, juniors, I was voted on the league all-star team every year, and then I was a freshmen at Taylor Jr. High. This now gave me the opportunity to play for a school team. I was one of the first on the list of players to make the cuts. I was the starting pitcher for our first three home games and led the team in Earned Run Average. I started at least one game in every position on the field but two. Coach loved me. I was the go to guy. When we played our cross-city rivals that his mother's dying wish was to beat them, he placed me on the mound and told me of his mother's importance in this game. But there was one thing. I wasn't the only one on the team was I? And I'm not saying this because I was the best. I mean, we had the famed Dallin Parker! We had the athletic Jaymen Green. We had a team full of talent,... but lacking in another thing. Standards. They didn't care. It was cool to be dirty. It was cool to talk filth. It was cool to swear. Well, to me it wasn't cool. And it broke my heart. At the end of the season, I had to make a decision. I had to decide to leave my dreams behind because I knew there was something better. It was the hardest decision of my life, and still to this day I yearn for the fealing of wearing that uniform while standing under the lights. The power you have while standing on the mound with the ball in your hands knowing that 8 other players in the field depended on your ability to defeat the batter. I miss that feeling so much. The game inside of the game. What pitch to throw? When to swing? Should I steal a base? What is the batter expecting? There is no other sport like it. There's no sports in heaven, but if God wanted to allow one, I know he would choose baseball. It's America's favorite pastime. It's every young boy's dream. It was my life. I love this game and I love those who made it so special to me. Every friend, every coach, every mlb player I heroized. Baseball is life.Daniel Merkleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10425696266344328352noreply@blogger.com0