Dear Future Fourth Grader

Every year I have my students write the students that I'm going to have the following year. It's always a little scary the first day, especially for many that are having their first boy teacher! Usually I do this with a few weeks left, but this year it ended up getting pushed to the last day or two. Even though they rushed through and were mostly distracted at this point, I still got some great responses. If you ever need a pick me up, become a teacher! Typing this up got me even more excited for the new year!

My favorite part about 4th grade:

• You have Mr. Horan thats amazing he is the funniest wierdest teacher ever.
• Is Mr. Horan because in my opion he's the best teacher in the forth grade.
• My favorite is Mr Horan becase he is nice he does not yell.
• Fourth grade is AWESOME!!! Mr. Horan is AWESOME!!!
• Expect awesomeness.
• Everything!
• Playing football with Mr. Horan.
• has to be Mr. Horan

My favorite part about Mr. Horan:

• is he is really funny and laughs alot. He is really nice, (nicer then all the other teachers)!
• Is that he would try his hardest to make us happy.
• Is that he do NOT yell.
• He dosen't yell.
• Is that he's funny and nice.
• He is so nice and he never yells.
• He is an athlete.
• Everything about hem.
• His laugh.
• Is that he's funny, nice, cool he's the best teacher in the world.
• EVERYTHING!
• He never yells and he is so calm too. If the class is good than u will get an award.
• He plays kickball with you. He is awesome fast!
• He is relly nice and likes sports.
• His personality.
• All his ways to remember things.
• He has a good sence of humer and hes really good at sports.
• his awesomeness.
• That's hard (not) he's funny.

Tips:

• Just be good and you'll have the best year.
• Don't talk.
• Keep quiet so you don't lose all your class points. Pay attention to the math lesson because he might end it early.
• #1 pay attention you won't want to miss a single word he says. #2 Mr. Horan loves strawberries.
• Stay on task do your best and you will be on task.
• Do not talk! Have fun! Read!
• Be good. Go above and beyond. (Be a little funny). But most of all earn as much horan bucks as possible.
• I hope you have a great time here. I also hope 4th grade is your best year just like mine was. I hope you know your times tables for buzz.
• Read when u are supposed to, try to get A's, you can talk but only when u are supposed to, make good friends.
• Be good and the teacher will like you.
• Pie is yummy, impress teachers, don't be like me.
• Be good, don't talk, and organize.
• Always listen, be quiet, follow the rules, try your hardest.
• Don't be scared!

Some of my favorite things we did this year:

• Math and, science.
• Mystery Skype, cause you get to see other people from other states.
• Rendezvous
• Reading buddies.
• Field day, everything was fun.
• Rendezvous, math, P.E., lunch.
• No missing assignment reward days.
• Rondayvos, Mr. Horan, recess.
• Camp Floyd.
• When the mountain man came.
• Wood burning.
• Buzz.
• Pioneer day.
• End of year dance.

I could never get Mr. Horan to tell me:

• Answers on the end of the year test.
• To tell me the internet password.
• Why I couldn't sit by _____.
• If he is republicin or democatic.
• The school wi-fi, his phone #, his address.
• Nothing I ask him questions and he always haves a answer.
• Who he voted for in the election.
• Who he voted for.
• Where he lives.
• Were he lives.
• Who he voted for.
• Who he voted for.
• If he liked Obama or Romny.
• About his love life.

This is why this is going to be your best year ever:

• 4th grade was my favorite grade because of the fun things we did and an awesome teacher Mr. Horan. He is cool, funny, and nice plus really fun. Trust me, 4th grade is great, don't be scared and have fun, but be good or else you'll get a piece of tape or your class will have extra homework!
• Because you have a funny nice teacher he never yells he never gets mad. Mr Horan is the best teacher ever.
• Because you have Mr. Horan!
• Mr. Horan is the best and he is not mean.
• You have a cool guy teacher.
• Mr. Horan never yells, class money, he's funny, it will be awesome trust me!
• Because Mr. Horan is a great teacher.
• Because of Mr. Horan he's the best teacher a kid could ever have.
• Because I had the best teacher EVER!
• You are going to have a really good time. Mr. Horan never yelled once!
• Mr. Horan is one of the best ever. Hes so fun and cool and awesome and nice.
• Because you got Mr. Horan!!!

Not my normal upbeat post

There are times that there is no other way to get your feelings out than to put pen to paper, or perhaps more pertinent to my particular preference, keyboard to computer. The past two weeks I've gone from one adventure to another. Today was really the first time that I felt like I was back in the real world, and the real world slammed me pretty hard.

It all began when I got to church and our ward was doing a special fast for a member in our ward boundaries who was dealing with health problems. There were many who testified of miracles they have seen, and I know I've seen many in my lifetime as well. Then there was a girl who talked about some health problems she had been having. She went on to explain that she had been told it could be one of two things, and she had been praying than something was wrong with her heart, as opposed to the other option that wouldn't be as easy to fix. She later was told by the doctors that it wasn't the heart, and she explained how she had to deal with this extremely painful experience recently because of what she has.

During this fast and testimony meeting my mom was on my mind, because she died a year ago this past August. We did have many miracles along the way, but I found myself getting a little frustrated again that she was taken prematurely. I began to wonder why some people have these miraculous healings, and others like the girl that bore her testimony, have to go through so much pain and suffering. We had ward fasts, she was given a blessing that, from what I understood, said she would live to see both of her children married and have children.

If there was a person on the face of the earth that it would seem God would want to have around, it would be my mother. She served more in her short lifetime than most people could do it two. She was a woman of great faith and never wavered for a second. She always had a smile on her face right up to the end. If she wasn't going to be healed, then why did she have to go through the past year or two of her life that were so painful and hard.

Did I not have enough faith? Did any of this have to do with me I began to wonder. I then began to look back at this past year, and I know I've struggled at times with that constant faith I'd always had. I was so sure that things were going to work out, that it kind of crushed me when it didn't. I was never willing to accept that she was going to die, I believed our miracle was going to come. I kept putting off our final family photo that she wanted to have, I didn't want to do anything that was any sign of her life coming to an end.

I remember her telling me one day that her goal was to make it until my birthday, August 26th, only to have her tell me a week or so later that she didn't think she would be able to make it until then. However her passing was an extremely peaceful experience. I really did feel the peace that the gospel brings. The support that our family and friends in Orem gave was overwhelming. My roommates, a few teachers from my school, as well as several of my other friends came to the funeral to offer their support. I was very grateful for each of them, they were heaven sent.

However, today I just missed her. I felt extremely alone, and wondered why God had left me comfortless. I wanted to leave after Sacrament, because of all of the emotions and feelings that had come back to me, but I felt like I would be blessed for staying.

An hour later I was in EQ and for some reason we were having another get to know you lesson. I hate it when we do these, especially today, because what I really needed was to feel the spirit, or to be left alone. (Which I guess is weird since I hadn't liked how alone I had been feeling completely alone earlier, but who says feelings have to make sense?) We were told to find someone we didn't know as well and get to know them, then later we would introduce them to the rest of the group.

As I said I hate these lessons, although at least you actually got to know someone this time, unlike several of the ways they have done them before. As I said, I just wanted to be left alone, so I just sat there hoping I could avoid the whole thing. I sent out a tweet on Twitter asking people to tell me something about themselves and I got 5 responses, so I felt like I was doing alright.

Not a single person came up to me, and I was the only one left alone. Invisible, as I usually am at church. Then the teacher, who is also in the presidency decided to do his duty and make me a project. He asked me what my name was, I've been here for 3 years, and asked me some general questions. He is a great guy, and actually someone I look up to, but it just wasn't what I needed after how I was feeling. We then went through the room and introduced the person you met. I got up and left and went outside and sat under a tree instead. I made it through church without crying, but I truly felt alone.

I didn't feel like I had anyone to talk to, not even God. I went back in for choir, but I just didn't have a lot to offer at that point. I was tired, I was hungry, and I was alone. Nobody even sat by me in choir either. I know I sound very whiny, and I know I have no reason to complain about my life. I am so privileged, and have so many blessings. I've started to make some really good friends here, and it has been so nice, but once again feelings don't always make sense.

I came home feeling like I was alone, that my faith was insufficient, that not only did my mom not make it to see me married while she was alive, but she may never get to see it even in death. I didn't feel like I brought anything of value to anyone around me, and didn't make much difference in this world.

Luckily I woke up from a nap, had a great dinner, spent time with my amazing family, and had several of my Twitter friends send me some encouraging words and felt a lot better. On my way driving home I listened to Carry On, by Fun. They have always been one of my favorite groups, and may be my favorite concert I've ever been to. I was introduced to them when my mom was going through some of her worst times, and several of their songs make me think of her. I know that as I carry on, and continue to walk with the faith that I have, that all will work out in the end.

I know that families are forever. I am grateful for the peace that the gospel brings. I know that as we keep putting one foot in front of the other, and endure to the end, that we will reach things great than we can imagine. As we put our faith and trust in God, things will work out for our good, even if we can't see it at the time. Trials are here to make us stronger and give us experience. In Sunday school, a girl shared an analogy of trials and getting jobs. She said that many jobs ask for two years of experience. What we are going through right now, may not make a lot of sense to us at the time, but we need that experience for something in the future.

I'm so grateful I had my mom as an example. She taught me a lot about faith, enduring to the end, and service. I hope that I can honor her by living in her example, I'm sorry I lost focus and faith today. I just miss her sometimes, and I'm sure I'll never stop.

'Cause here we are

We are shining stars

We are invincible

We are who we are

On our darkest day

When we're miles away

Sun will come

We will find our way home

If you're lost and alone

Or you're sinking like a stone.

Carry on.

May your past be the sound

of your feet upon the ground.

Carry on.

Pitch Imperfect

So this one time I was forced to watch a movie called Pitch Perfect... Don't worry, as you will soon notice I kept my mind focused on what is really important, our Jazz! Pitch Perfect is about an epic journey of an all girl a cappella group trying to win the big competition thingy. (I'm pretty sure that is its official name)

It begins as a rebuilding year, there are only two veterans remaining from the previous team. They have a certain way that they do things, and a very important tradition. They fill their remaining slots with a lot of young players, who will be their core for years to come. Each brings something special and has something different to offer. The majority of them are not complete players, but they all bring something special to the table. Together as a team they compliment each other beautifully. In different songs, several people are always able to step up depending on what is needed in the song.

With their vets leading them into the competitions, their predictable play gets them second place in regionals. It was safe, they knew what to do, and it had been proven over centuries of competitions. They don't take any chances, or try anything new. It does get above-average results, but nobody enjoys watching them. There just doesn't seem to be a lot of excitement or urgency in their performance to really take that next step.

One of the new recruits has some great ideas, but she's a little different. (I assume she grew up playing tennis and Starcraft) She tries to add some spice and improve upon what was tried and true. It doesn't work at first, and they end up finishing one spot below where they needed to advance, say 9th place.

I don't want to spoil this amazing movie, but things were not pretty for a while after that. Things may look pretty bad for our Jazz, but at least we aren't making snow angels in vomit yet. In the end the team is turned over to the rising stars, and the result is pure magic, magic, magic. (Erving not Orlando)

It's been hard being a Jazz fan this year. Many of our local sports teams are great at getting us excited for the coming year and doing what needs to be done to sell season tickets. They get many of our hopes up with their talk about how we will be better by subtraction, (Bell, Howard) as well as from within. Surely all of our young players will have only improved!

We have had a system that is tried and true. We had some vets who were given the reigns this year and were going to lead the way. We also had some great new talent, and were told we were going to have a season full of beautiful Jazz harmony.

We are lucky as Jazz fans to have been blessed with so many years where we were very successful, and often over-achieved.  Even with our 26-56 year, or when we were predicted to have the worst team in history, we stood by our team. One thing I have always felt defined our team was that we outworked everyone else, and played with a lot of heart.

However the pitch pipe was never passed on to the young stars. We continued riding our vets into some very predictable basketball that was often underwhelming.  We caught glimpses of what was coming, yet it never did.

I feel that for possibly the first time we are under-achieving. I think that hurts me more than the losing. Maybe it's my own fault for thinking we were going to have improved. Shame on me for thinking maybe we could get a 7th spot, or win a playoff game or two this year.

Sometimes I believe the Jazz organization believes that we as fans care so much about winning, and winning now, that we wouldn't have understood taking a step back this year. You can't have one foot in rebuilding, and one in the playoffs. I believe that Jazz fans can be some of the most intelligent out there, and we all understand that sometimes you have to take a step back to take a few forward. This will most likely be the case next year, and I know I for one am fine with that.

My only questions have been that if this is the case, why not start the process this year? Why play all of these players who are going to graduate our choir next year and move on with their lives? If the players don't act like they care about winning must win games in New York, Houston, or Dallas, why should I care about them? Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

I am, and will always be, a huge Jazz fan. This season is what it is, but maybe it's time to pass that pitch-pipe and start preparing for next years regionals. Our Pitch Perfect season may not be too far away. I just hope we get to end this season watching a team that has that heart and pride that I've always loved. You do that, and we will always love you, just the way you are.

Fanatical

1984 was a great year, we drafted John Stockton, BYU won the National Championship, and I was born. As I continued to grow, my love of the Jazz grew as well. If you look at my journals as a child they are filled with statistics from Jazz games. (Who would have known the internet would have kept track of all of that for me...)

I remember joining Jr. Jazz and the excitement I had when I would get to go to that one Jazz game a year! Just as exciting was when a member of the team would come locally and we could meet them and they would talk to all of us. It was such a simple thing for them to do, to take an hour or two here and there, but it meant a lot to us.

The Jazz made it cool to pass, they valued hard work and dedication. Players would come here and have the best years of their career. It was team basketball. We weren't always the most talented, but you knew we were going to give our all.

I was able to meet every Jazz player during the finals runs. My dad even won tickets to the game that John Stockton broke the steals record. Later I was even able to get John to autograph my certificate from the game.

There are moments that you will never forget. John Stockton making the shot to send the Utah Jazz into the NBA Finals will always be one of mine.

My fond memories do not conclude with Stockton and Malone, but continue to grow today. I am as big a fan as ever. Technology has brought us together in ways I could never have imagined. I may be doing a Google+ Hangout with David Locke in the morning, tweeting during the game, and then listening to the @utahjazzpodcast after.

Not only do we have more access to other fans, but to the players as well! They might even wish us a happy birthday! (Although the RSL team had the edge on that one)

I love this team as much as ever. I love that when it would have been easy to follow the Warriors model and tank, our team would rather develop a winning culture and play in meaningful games. While many teams are unbearable for me to watch, we still play team basketball. Even with injuries, we haven't gone down without a fight. All of our players have weaknesses, but I feel like they are truly trying to work on them, and to use the strengths that they do have. Our end of games have been a little scary, but we have come through almost every time.

Those values that I loved as a child, hard work and dedication, are still just as important. It's team basketball, it has to be we don't have a star. We aren't the most talented, but you know we are going to give our all.

Is out team perfect? NO! However, I am still proud to call the Jazz my team. Our team is full of great guys, guys that play the game right. We have a coach that has been able to keep everyone together, even with contracts expiring, and playing time not always being where players would like it. We have an organization that scouts as well as anyone, and has put ourselves in a great situation this upcoming summer.

We should always want the best, we have the right to voice our opinions, but maybe we can enjoy the ride a little bit more and remember how lucky we are to be a part of such a great team. #WeAreUtahJazz

Dave Week 2

I may add some more to this later, but I wanted to post a few pictures from Monday's Jazz game.

Positive Thinking

You know that person that always seems to be happy? How do they always stay so positive? How is it that they can make you feel a little better, just by being around them? I don't have all of the answers to these questions, but I am very glad these people exist. I try to surround myself with as many of them as possible, because their enthusiasm  for life is infectious.

It is so easy to look for the bad in things, but why do so many of us spend the majority of our time doing just that? After a Jazz/BYU loss, people overreact like crazy. Even when we win, so many people find something to be unhappy about. In some of our jobs the only time our boss talks to us is if there is a complaint, or you need to improve at something. If you are doing your job, then you are doing what you are supposed to. Why  would you take the time to compliment, say thank you, or recognize the things others are doing?

I often wonder if I compliment my students enough. We work so hard at making sure what we are doing looks like, and sounds like it should. Then when they meet our expectations, we just say in our heads, finally, and move on without a second thought. Sometimes I think we are scared that if we interrupt it, we will ruin the moment.

I know the times I receive a sincere compliment it does much more to motivate me than when someone tries to tear me down. There is a time and a place for constructive criticism. If I'm doing something wrong I want to know so I can fix it, but how often we err on that side, and not on the positive. Last week I got a short e-mail from a parent thanking me for making this a good year for her son, and it brightened my whole day. It only took her a moment, and was a little thing, but for me, it meant a whole lot.

I was going to do two examples of how I could think about my life, and how it was going. One paragraph that was positive, and one that was negative. I wanted to show how your attitude can make the same exact thing very different. I had to stop though, because even after allowing myself to think negatively for just a moment, it got dark and depressing really fast. I can't let myself even think like that for a minute.

There is so much bad in the world, the news is full of awful things. Today was an especially hard day with the news of the shooting. However, there are SO many more great things going on out there. We can focus on the bad, and let it take over and paralyze our lives. Or we can make the best with what we've got, be grateful, and focus on the good. I can promise you that the positive one is a lot more enjoyable.

I hope that each of us will try to be that person whose infectious happiness brings joy to all of those around us. Life is never as bad as we may think. The sun will rise tomorrow, and if we learn from all of our yesterdays, we will have a lot of wonderful tomorrows.

I would like to challenge each of you to think positively today, compliment someone, and find a way you can serve and make the world a better place, even if it's just for one person. If all of us did these small simple things everyday, think of all the good we could do.

Mr. Above Average

There they were on the table, our 6th grade class yearbooks! Inside the contents were filled with all kinds of things, stories we wrote, what we did that year, but there was only one thing we were interested in, the awards!

Several weeks ago, we had all filled out who we thought was the best athlete, smartest student, class clown, etc.  I couldn’t wait to see what I was going to be, I really had no idea.  I was good at a lot of things, but what I looked forward to most, was being able to say I am the best at something!

I quickly sat down at my desk. It felt like the yearbooks were staring at me, begging to be opened.  The bell rang, we said the pledge, our teacher reminded us of the schedule for the final day, and then finally, began to pass them out.  

Why did I have to be in the back, I thought. I should have talked more this year, then I could have been in the front with all the kids that needed...a little extra attention.  Wait, I’m losing focus! One more row, two seats away, it’s here!

I flipped through the pages. Where is it? What am I the best at? How am I going to be remembered? I started at the beginning, for each category they had one boy and one girl. First on the list was Stephen and Melissa as the Class Clowns. Then Chris and Lindsay for Boy/Girl Crazy. I wasn’t smartest! Oh, that’s OK, those two were kind of nerdy. Most athletic? Nope...

All the good awards had been taken, I was beginning to worry if I had even gotten one.  Maybe they hadn’t been able to come up with anything. Do you think they had decided after all that I had no talents or special skills?  All of my worst fears were beginning to come true.

Finally, at the very end, I found my name! I was the only one not matched up with a girl, but at least I hadn’t been forgotten! I read it, David Horan -- Best All Around Student. Really? I wanted to cry, they really HADN’T been able to think of anything for me.  I don’t think I could have been more disappointed.  So I’m alright at a lot of stuff, whoopty doo!

While everyone else was winking at the guy/girl that was matched up with them, or smiling about their choice, I just wanted to sign have a great summer a few dozen times and get out of there. See you later elementary school, way to hold back one of the greatest minds of our generation! On to Jr. High, where I might finally be able to find that one special thing I could really excel at.

A little overreaction? Maybe, but sometimes a guy just wants to feel special.  You know how it is don’t you? *Spoiler* I did win an award in 8th grade, but only because a boy in my class was making fun of me, we’ll get to that later.

Dear Future 4th Grader

I had my 4th graders write letters to my future students.  They gave them tips, or information on what to expect, and to help those that might be scared. I know this is a little long, but here are some of my favorite parts from all of the letters. Each paragraph is part of a different student's letter.

Dear Future 4th Grader,

4th grade was my best school year. If you are scared a little at first that is okay. I was too but then I found out that Mr. Horan cares about us and that he is really nice and if you are good that you will get rewarded.

You are the luckiest kid in the school! Mr. Horan is the nicest teacher in the world!  The funnest thing is MATH! It is so fun! And it is really easy once you get it down.

You can earn prizes and Horan bucks. If you are good you can play a math game like buzz. If you come early or stay after school you can get help with your homework. Mr. Horan is funny and nice. Another game you can play is birthday math, it's so much fun!  Make sure you have fun!

Have a great year with Mr. Horan! He's one of the best teachers you will ever get! I have never heard him yell, not once! (If you had a teacher who yells before you'll understand how nice this is) He lets you know you are a special person.  You will have an amazing time in this classroom. You will have so much fun, so don't go home saying it was boring!

It will be a very fun and exciting year with Mr. Horan. TIPS: Don't talk to anyone when Mr. Horan is talking. Fun Things: The field trip to camp Floyd is a very long ride, but very fun, you'll love it. At the end of the year you'll be square dancing and yes you'll be dancing with a boy. Personal Experiences: When or if you get in a fight with a friend or just anyone then tell Mr. Horan as soon as possible. You'll have a wonderful year with Mr. Horan and your other classmates. It will be really fun.

Here are a couple of facts about Mr. Horan. 1. Very nice. 2. Cool. 3. Humorous. 4. Rewarding. 5. Discipline. 6. Very smart. 7. Nice Looking. 8. Likes fitness. 9. Likes Jazz. 10. Likes basketball.

You will really like being in Mr. Horans class he is a great teacher. I had a great time being in his class. Make sure you pay attention and turn in everything because it takes a long time to get them back in. I think you will have a fun time in his class because I think he makes learning fun. That's how it was for me. Tips: Don't talk, pay attention, & have a great time! U will love this year it was the BEST!

Mr. Horan loves it when he gets to work with you one-on-one when you need help. He's patient, but you have to be good or you'll lose points! You can earn "class points" by being good. Once you get 20 class points, you get a class party! Tips: Be good and you'll get opportunities! Don't be nervous, everybody makes mistakes! Don't be embarrassed to ask questions, but try to listen hard! Mr. Horan is funny, but don't think that you can shout things out and get up and dance whenever you want!

You are lucky to get Mr. Horan. You should not debate with him, he always wins. By the time you read this I will be in 5th Grade, so don't come looking for me.

If you are scared, don't be! Mr. Horan is a fun, nice teacher.  Here are some things to look forward to. First, Rendezvous. They are class stores that are really fun! Second, the field trip. You go to a place called Camp Floyd. Third, your year books, you carve things into wood!

I really hope you enjoy 4th grade.  I had so much fun with Mr. Horan this year! You are going to get to do the Utah Program, you might even get a part!

One hint is that fourth grade can get a little hard. So work as hard as you can! You will be smart I know it! Have a fun year and learn lots.

4th grade is going to be hard but fun. You get to learn a lot about science and do projects that are so cool. You'll become super smart. Rendezvous are so much fun. You get to bring things and sell them for Horan bucks and also buy things. You'll do so much new things that you can't do in lower grades. P.S. You have reading buddies!

Try not to be shy at the beginning of the school year. Find some new friends! Do NOT do BAD things in class try to be good. You can do what you want at recess, til then be good in class. P.S. do what Mr. Horan says. Be nice and U R AWESOME!

I moved here in the middle of the school year and I was very scared because I didn't know if I would make any friends, and because I did not know who my teacher was or if he would be nice. But Mr. Horan is a great teacher. You get to do lots of fun things, one of my favorites was when we made pictures and burned them on wood. You will have a great school year Mr. Horan is a great, nice and awesome teacher.

I am going to tell you about Mr. Horan and things about this class. If you are scared about 4th grade, don't be. 4th grade is fun and I loved it. If you have never had a boy teacher before and you are scared about that, don't be. I was but I shouldn't have been. Mr. Horan is the BEST! You should look forward to the school year! I AM SO GLAD I HAD MR. HORAN!

The Big Bang Theory

I recently found out that one of my friends compares my roommates and I to the guys in The Big Bang Theory.  For those of you that have never seen the show, here is a very simplified summary.  The main characters are four scientists.  Leonard and Sheldon are two physicists working at the California Institute of Technology, and Howard and Rajesh are aerospace engineers.  In contrast to these science nerds, the fifth character, Penny a blonde waitress/aspiring actress, moves in across the hall from Leonard and Sheldon.  The humor comes from these scientists trying to understand how to navigate the social part of life.  As well as for those around them to come to understand their quarks and realize what great guys they really are.

The reason my friend compared us to these guys is because they always have their week planned out.  Every Thursday may be Thai food, at least that is what we used to do.  They are very comfortable in their own little world, and they don't see any reason to have it change.  It works for them, they are enjoying life, and life is good.  They don't realize what they are missing, nor do they care, until their lives get thrown out of orbit by someone so different and challenging to them in a way that is anything but scientific.

My schedule has also become rather predictable lately:
Monday: Basketball
Tuesday: Biggest Loser, then Golds Gym
Wednesday: LDS Conference chat, gym
Thursday: Bowling league, Thursday TV shows.
Friday: Lately it has been an accidental 3-4 hours nap, then not sleeping well that night, and being tired all Saturday.  Then I do it all again the next week.  I also fit in 3-4 Jazz games, and now an RSL game into the mix.  It also was warm enough to disc golf, so we did that on Friday, and will be going more often when we are all done with work.

Like these scientists, I am also very comfortable, it works for me, and I am enjoying life.  I'm not just sitting at home all day, I am getting exercise daily, getting out of the house, and doing things I love and enjoy.  I have never needed someone else to make me happy, or to make me feel complete.  Yet I am very glad that I have a lot of friends that pop in and out of my life.  They always seem to be there at the right times when I need them, and I try to do the same for them.

Maybe my roommates and I really are like these scientists. We may not really stick out in a social setting, but those that get to know us often get a lot of laughs, and an enjoyable evening.  We may say, or do, some funny things, but I don't know of many better guys.  When we see something we want, or that interests us, we go for it. But it has to be obviously worth changing up the good thing we've got going, and we might happily complain along the way for having our routine ruined.

Unfortunately, we have not had our Big Bang moment.  We aren't going to try and force ourselves into any social situations, forcing yourself on us isn't going to work either.  The right people always seem to fit in naturally anyway.

I know that some of you are probably going crazy right now saying, I know someone that is perfect for you, or maybe even, I'm perfect for you.  Well, sometimes I am slow, sometimes I am tired, and sometimes I'm just comfortable.  A little hint is a good thing, but I hate being told what to do.  Even if it's what I want to do, I need it to feel like it is my choice.  We scientists are weird like that, we like discovering things on our own.

Hopefully I will be lucky to find my own Penny.  Someone to help knock me out of this comfortable orbit, and onto a path that turns my good life, into the best life.  A path that is continually moving up, instead of wandering around in circles. I hope she doesn't mind Thai on Thursdays.

Why do you believe in God?

I have always had a belief in God.  I believe that we are his children, that he loves us, and that he has a plan for us to return to live with Him and our families again.  This belief has brought me a lot of peace and happiness over my life.

It helped me so much, that for two years I chose to spread that message.  During those two years, and since, I met so many amazing people!  They came from many faiths and denominations, but all had been impacted by the beliefs in God(s).  I loved talking to them and being able to hear how that belief had blessed, or changed their lives.

I love learning about people, and what they believe.  I have taken world religion classes, and continue to enjoy learning about what people believe and why.  I have not been able to have these discussions as regularly, so I thought I would write this blog post today to hear what you have to say.

In my studies I have found it interesting how much we all have in common.  How you can look around the world, even in some of the most remote places, and find a belief in God.  I know that this is a very personal topic, but I would love it if you would share with us your belief.  I would also like to know how your belief in God has helped you in your life, how you came to that belief, and how it may have changed throughout your life.  You are also more than welcome to post why you do not believe.

I am also very aware of all the bad that has been done in the name of God throughout our history.  This is not a post to discuss that.  Personal attacks will not be tolerated from either side, and will be deleted.  It is a shame I even have to post that. This topic is just something that has a big impact on my life, and I would love to hear how it has impacted you.

David the Basketball Player

Story written by one of my 4th grade students, shared with permission.
Dedicated to my teacher: Mr. Horan
Written by: Name removed for privacy

Once there was a person named David Joel Horan.  He was a teacher.  He loved sports, especially basketball.  He was really good at basketball and liked to play it.  But he was a teacher, and that was about to change.

Chapter 1: D-Will
One day when David came home from teaching school he changed in basketball clothes and got in his car.  He was going to the park.  He was going to play basketball on their basketball court.  Later while he was playing basketball, the famous basketball player D-Will saw him playing basketball.  D-Will thought it was really good, he told David that he had a good chance for being a famous basketball player like him.  David was way way excited when he said that.  A half an hour later David went home.  He called all the family members he had.  They were all excited too!

Chapter 2: A Phone Call
The next day while David was eating breakfast his phone rang.  When he answered it, the person on the other end was D-Will!  D-Will told David that he needs to go to the Jazz Stadium at 6:00 PM that day to try out to be on the team!  At 5:53 PM he arrived at the stadium  At exactly 6:00 PM he tried out for the team.  At the end of tryouts they said he made the team!

Chapter 3: The End
So he played on that team and he thought it was way fun!......but he missed his class especially (The Author)! The End.

Glad I wasn't one of the Jazz fans booing DWill this past week, thanks for helping me make the team!  I also am glad that I arrived 7 minutes early to the stadium.  Maybe I could still teach my class via Skype or something.  I really would miss them! -Dave

#DaveWeek Wrap Up

"Whoa, you guys are overwhelming me, and I'm not easily overwhelmed" -David Locke

I could easily say the same thing.  I am not often surprised, I rarely overreact, or get too excited.  But this week there was a surprise around every turn, and it was definitely exciting!

Two of my friends, Lauren and Elyse, hadn't seen me in a while.  So on January 7th, Elyse wrote that the next week would be dubbed Dave Week.  Lauren added that maybe we could even get #DaveWeek trending.  I agreed, and #DaveWeek was born. Little did we know what #DaveWeek would soon become.

Sunday night we got together for dinner.  It was nice to eat and play games.  There were about 8 of us, and it was a great time.  At the end of the night we planned what we wanted to do each day.

Monday: Half off appetizers at Applebees.
I showed up at 9:00, and met my friends there.  They also invited a few people from their ward and it was fun to make a few new friends.  One of the guys walked up to me and said, you are @downrightdave?  It is a real pleasure to meet you!  I felt like a celebrity!  I got home around 10:00 and started getting ready for bed.

I checked my Twitter account, and it was going crazy!  Somehow all of my friends, and many more, had started tweeting funny things, and adding #DaveWeek onto the end of them.  It began to go viral in SLC and made it all the way to #1.  (Trending basically means that a group of people, within a given area, and given time, are talking about a particular thing.)  So between about 10:00-Midnight, more people in SLC were talking about #DaveWeek than Alabama, LSU, or anything else.

Tuesday: Jazz game
You can read all about this day here: http://www.downrightdave.blogspot.com/2012/01/daveweek.html
It was easily my favorite of all the days.  Since social media was a key ingredient to #DaveWeek, it was kind of funny that the people who got most excited, and that we got to meet, were the media people.  One highlight was when David Locke recognized me, even though he had never met me in real life before.

What began as us finding cheap $5 tickets, that were on the very top row, turned into a series of miracles. Security let me go onto the court, we got our picture taken on the halftime set, made it onto the background of the postgame, and got pictures with both the TV, and radio announcers.  Plus the following morning David Locke gave #DaveWeek a shout out on his podcast.

#DaveWeek also trended in SLC for the second night in a row, making it up to #3.  It even went national, and international.  Although those tweets would not have helped it trend in SLC.  It was amazing how many people were joining in, asking what was going on, and wanting to be a part.

Wednesday: The Chocolate
Since the point of this week was because Lauren and Elyse wanted to see more of me, most of our activities did not originally include large groups of extra people.  It became obvious that a lot of people wanted to be a part of it, wanted to meet me, and were just looking for crazy fun things to do.  So we devoted this day to them.  The Chocolate did a great job of making it special for us.  They even sent out this tweet earlier in the day:

We had a great turnout, and I was really impressed by their delectable desserts, as well as a really well run business.  They will definitely be included in future #daveweek plans.

Thursday:  Bowling
My roommates and I are in a bowling league.  So between that and watching some great TV shows, like Parks and Rec, I enjoyed a more relaxing day with two of my best friends and my brother.  I love doing crazy  and random things, but I also like to just chill at home sometimes too.  This week was tiring, and it was nice to unwind a little bit.

Friday: Dinner at Cafe Paesan, Shirts
One of our friends who had contributed quite a bit to getting #DaveWeek trending hadn't been able to make any of our activities.  She threw out the idea of meeting at Cafe Paesan for dinner, and so we did.  After dinner four of us went and made #DaveWeek shirts.

Saturday: Movie, Dinner, and Broom Hockey
The three of us went to go see a movie.  After, Elyse made us a delicious dinner and we went to her YSA ward activity, broom hockey at 7 Peaks!  We had enough people there for two games, and the people we brought with us were enough to make up one team.  Team #DaveWeek may not have won, but we had a ton of fun!  It was nice of their ward to let all of us join in and play with them.  They were super nice, and I quickly made friends.  It was just what a YSA activity should be.  I also ran into some old friends that happened to be there that night.

Finale: Sunday/Monday
Since Sunday was more of our planning day, and today was a holiday, we kind of extended #DaveWeek a little bit.  One of our friends happened to be in town from Las Vegas for the weekend.  We weren't able to meet up with him on Saturday, so I had thought I wouldn't be able to.  Late Sunday evening, who happened to show up at my house, but him and four of my friends!  We decided to go to iHop, (ha ha, I had to leave that after I wrote it) and spent our early Monday morning enjoying a lot of laughs.  Seriously, anything is funny at that time of night.  It was a great finale to a truly amazing week.

I woke up ready to relax when my mom called and asked if I wanted to go to lunch with them. I did so, and then we went bowling.  It was nice to have some family time after running around like a crazy person all week.  I was a little tired of eating out, but I will never say no to someone paying for me to eat.  After bowling I came home, ready to start that relaxing I had looked forward to.

So immediately my phone rang, and several of my life long friends said they were going to the grand opening of Buffalo Wild Wings.  There was an hour wait, so they put our name down, came over to my house and hung out for a while.  After 45 minutes we went over there, and waited another half hour or so.  It was super good, and I expect it will get my friends up to Lehi more often.

Tonight I will conclude the festivities by doing my favorite thing, playing basketball.

It has been a crazy week, and even though it is over, it seems like my life will never be the same.  It is amazing what a simple idea, some initiative, and the world's greatest friends can do.  We have already started thinking about next year, and fitting in everything we thought of that didn't fit into this week.  If my calculations are correct, this weeks activities included 39 specific people, plus all of those at the ward activity, in the bowling league, Jazz media, plus whoever comes to basketball tonight.  There were still many more I wish had been a part of it, and many who were at more than one activity.  #DaveWeek was used over 600 times on Twitter, trended twice, and will be something I will never forget.

All of this was done without any personal invites, just through the use of social media.  Thank you to all of you that took interest, came to the activities, and made me feel like I was King of the World!

#DaveWeek

You know how people say that dreams really can come true?  Believe it! 2012 has been such a year.

It began one day as I found out that three of my friends were invited by Greg Miller, owner of the Jazz, to join him on the front row for a game.  As I read their blogs, I was amazed at what an amazing man Greg Miller was and thought how amazing it would be to have something like that happen to me.  You can read their accounts here:

Clint: http://www.theutahjazzblog.com/2012-articles/january/inside-the-utah-jazz-carrying-the-torch.html
Diana: http://www.utahjazz360.com/diana/sitting-court-side-with-greg-miller/
David: http://www.utahjazz360.com/davidjsmith/dreams-come-true-thanks-to-greg-miller-and-the-jazz/

I began to think of the "dreams" that have come true for me in my lifetime.  Since their posts were Jazz related, I thought about the time Karl Malone and his brother, taught my brother and I how to fish at a local boat store. There was a big group of people at the event and Karl and his brother each picked 2-3 kids out of the crowd.  Karl picked my brother, and his brother picked me.  They then gave us a quick personal lesson, a free Karl Malone fishing pole (Yes he had his own line of fishing gear) and signed autographs for us all.

Then there was the time my dad won tickets for us to watch John Stockton break the steals record.  We got a special certificate to show that we were there.  Luckily he got a steal that night! Usually the only game we got to go to was the free one with Jr. Jazz, so this was a real treat!

My favorite story would have to be the time I got John Stockton to sign that certificate.  My dad took us to watch the end of a Jazz practice and John had been the only player on the entire team that wouldn't stop to sign autographs for us. There had only been about 6-10 people there, but he wouldn't do it.  So my little brother and I waited outside in the parking lot of Westminster College for John Stockton to leave the gym from the locker room.  Of course he was the very last one out of the gym. Even though we were the only two there, and both little kids (our parents were within sight), he only agreed to sign if we would walk with him to his car so he didn't have to stop.  (Yes this was a dream come true, he is still easily my favorite player of all time)

I can now add #DaveWeek to the list of dreams come true.  Last week two of my friends told me that they missed seeing me.  They wondered when I would be able to get together with them again.  They decided to dedicate this entire week to me, and to call it #DaveWeek.

The week is only half over, but it has surpassed even my wildest dreams and expectations.  To keep this from getting too long, I will just briefly talk about my experience yesterday at the Jazz game.  You can check out the rest of the week here: http://downrightdave.blogspot.com/2012/01/daveweek-wrap-up.html

We got to the Jazz game an hour early and were able to go down onto the court.  Right as we got there Jeff Hornacek walked by.  I'm not someone who is shy, so I quickly asked him if I could get a picture with him.  Even though he was on his way out, he stopped.  He said, "wouldn't you rather get your picture with Enes?"  We said, "No, we would rather get one with you."  He gladly obliged, and was on his way.  I have always had a lot of respect for Jeff and would have been happy if this was where the story ended.  But it isn't!

We went to our seats, which were on the very top row and enjoyed the first quarter.  Several more of my friends joined us and they brought some of the most amazing signs I have ever seen!

Before halftime, we went to go watch the half time report.  Alema Harrington and Thurl Bailey saw our signs and looked at us inquisitively during their report.  When halftime was over Alema came over to ask us what #DaveWeek was all about.  He was super nice and asked us if we wanted to come on the stage and get a picture with him.  Obviously we said yes.

Wait, it's not over yet!  After the game we went down and got Matt Harpring to sign our posters.  Even though my head was not on a stick, he still thought it was a pretty great.  Not only did he play football, but it turns out he is also quite an artist.

Having had the most amazing night, we began to walk up the stairs to go home.  Except who should we bump into?  David Locke!  He may have been the nicest one of all, I was very impressed that he took a few minutes to talk to us.  He was even in the middle of doing his write up for the game.  He cared enough to even ask us for our names, although when I went to introduce myself he said, "Oh, I already know you!" (From Twitter).  

He then gave us shout-out the next day on his podcast.  Listen specifically from about 1:10-1:52. 

I may have been on the top row, instead of the front with Greg Miller, but this week has truly been a dream.  Plus, I already met Greg Miller about a month ago.  (Although you can invite me to come sit with you anytime Greg!)

So dreams really do come true, and #DaveWeek may have been my greatest one yet!

The Last Leaf

Between four years of seminary, many years of Sunday school, and preaching the gospel for two years, I have seen my fair share of church videos.  There is one particular video called The Last Leaf.  It is a story about a girl that is sick and about to die.  She finds motivation to keep fighting as she looks out her window and sees a dying vine.  She decides that she can make it as long as it still has leaves.

When I visited my family for Christmas, my dad told me of something that reminded me of this video.  He told me that in our garden there was one rose that had survived the recent wind storms, and cold winter weather.  When everything logical says it should have been long gone, it wasn't.

In many ways this flower is like my mom.  When the winter winds, and the cold times have come, she keeps hanging on.  Like this flower, she is a symbol of a great life, and one that continues to bless all those that see her.  It's been a rough year, but one that I am very glad we have had.  I look forward to many many more!

I have posted The Last Leaf below for anyone interested.

Happiness

Deep down I believe it is a universal truth that everyone wants to be happy.  In fact, the pursuit of happiness is listed as an unalienable-right in the Declaration of Independence.  Not as universal is the way we attempt to pursue that happiness, and it is truly a pursuit.

Too many of us are not happy in having something, but having more of it than someone else.  Instead of reaching to new heights, they are busy putting others down.  They look forward to something in the future, when I can drive I'll be happy, when I can date I'll be happy, when I'm in college, when I graduate, when I'm married, when I can retire, the list goes on and on.

Happiness is not a destination, but a way of life.  Somebody will always have more than you, and while you are busy putting others down, you will never be able to look up and enjoy the view at the top.  The time to be happy is now.

Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today. -James Dean

So are you happy yet?  Wouldn't it be nice if it were that easy?  Like I said earlier, happiness is truly a pursuit.  It takes work, and it takes a different way of thinking.

The happiest people don't have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything.

I first thing I have found is that the times I am happiest are not when I am comparing myself to others, but when I am serving them.  When I am trying to make someone else's day, mine instantly becomes better.  It is the times I am helping pull someone up, not putting them down, that are the most rewarding.  The view from the top is a lot more fun when you have someone to share it with.

I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world.  This makes it hard to plan the day. -E.B. White

The second thing is to have an attitude of gratitude.  Instead of always wanting more, are we grateful for what we already have?  We are SO blessed!  If we really stop to think about it, we have so much.  The following videos can portray my thoughts much better than I could ever write them.



As we strive to follow these two simple things, service and gratitude, we will be well on our way to pursuing happiness.  The road will not always be easy, there will be roadblocks, traffic jams, crashes, and many other obstacles. But as we focus on what we can control, and make the best of it, we will find ourselves much further along the path than we ever imagined.

There are always two choices, two paths to take.  One is easy, and that is its only reward.

Mr. Quarterback

I stepped onto the cold, muddy field.  Puddles had begun to form, I could see my breath.  People who could not normally care less turned their eyes toward the football field.  I heard my name being called out, there was a frenzy that had rarely been seen before.

I had arrived, Mr. Quarterback, it had a nice ring to it.  But I didn't have time to dwell, the time was now!  Game clock started, it was the first play.  I yelled orders to my team.  Hike!  It was like a roar, a battle-cry coming from my lips.  My team began to run their routes, the other team was rushing.  I scrambled, narrowly avoided their grasp, set my feet and let it fly.

The ball spiraled toward the end-zone in a way that would have made David of old, and his slingshot, proud.  I heard a collective gasp, they had never seen such a pass, TOUCHDOWN!

The crowd wanted more, there was no way they were going to let me leave the field.  All-time QB they pleaded.  I graciously accepted. I began to lead the opposing team down the field.  Slants, posts, even running it a time or two, another touchdown!

In the space of 15 minutes I had 8 touchdown passes, and 1 rushing touchdown.  Then the bell rang and recess was over.  We lined up and went inside, but the mud on our shoes, and each squishy step they made, reminded us of the magic we felt that day.

I Am Still Alive

It has been a while since the last time I blogged.  In that time I was able to do something I had always wanted to do, go skydiving.

How many people say they would love to do something like this, and then how many actually do it?  When I was given the opportunity I had to take it.  My brother sent me a message saying he knew some people that were going, and wondered if I was interested.  I sat there for about five seconds, and then I said yes and never looked back.  In those five seconds I discovered that it is a lot easier to say you want to do something, than to actually do it.

I was so excited, but it never quite felt real.  I figured the second I stepped out on to the edge of the plane I would get freaked out, but even that didn't scare me.  It was the thrill of a lifetime!  The closest way I can describe it would be sticking your head out a car window driving 120 mph.  Except it's your whole body, and instead of cars passing by you get to see the earth get closer and closer.

It was a free-fall for about a minute.  Then we pulled the parachute and got to float around for a couple of minutes.  I would do it again in a second.  Just getting to fly around in the little plane and see the beautiful Utah landscape and mountains was beautiful.

We didn't get any good pictures of us actually in the air, but here is a picture of four of us pre-jump.

Since then I have also done a few other things I have always wanted to do.  I bought my very own bowling ball, and look forward to getting it this week!  In my excitement I bowled my first over 200 game on Friday.  I got six strikes in a row to start, and ended up with a score of 215.

Who knows what I will do next?

Best of Utah on Twitter

Several people have asked me what I do during the summer when school is out.  Well first of all, I've been to school 4 out of 5 days this week.  I have also done a much better job of exercising, and plan to finally get some work done in my yard.

Besides all of these things, and some good old fashioned time wasting, I started a new blog.  This blog began with a hunger, I wanted a burger.  So I thought I would use Twitter to help me decide the best burger around. The only requirements was they had to be on Twitter, and they had to be within driving distance.  It ended up being a lot of fun and I got a really good response.  So I posted my results on a blog, and I want to make it a weekly thing.

It would really help me out if you would go there, comment, and click follow.  I would like it to look more official, I kind of threw it together really quickly today, but it has possibilities.  In less then 12 hours I have already had over 50 views.  Now if I can get follows, +1's and comments I may be in business.

The website is http://bestofutahontwitter.blogspot.com/

Thank you!

Last Days

The last week of school is always bittersweet.  Having time off is never a bad thing, but you have gotten so close, and care so much about your students.  Several of my students didn't want to leave the last two days, many told me I was their favorite teacher.  I know they say that every year, and they should, your current teacher should always be your favorite, but it still feels really good to hear it.  Here are a few of the notes I got today:

Dear Mr. Horan, Thank you for always being there for me.  Thank you for helping me understand my math.  I will miss you.  You were my favorite teacher.  When I'm in 5th grade I'll try to come and visit you every day.  You are the best!

Dear Mr. Horan you are a really great teacher I hope you had a good year, I did.  You really made me feel special.  I hope (my sister) gets you.  (Then her mom gave me a phone number of a girl she wants me to ask out)

Mr. Horan You are the best teacher I have had, besause all my other teachers did not make sense.  You made me feel welcome, you helped me with math so I would get it, and you are AWESOME!!  Go Jazz!

Thank U for being my 4th Grade teacher!  U were the best teacher I've ever had!

Dear Mr. Horan Thank you for being such a nice Teacher.  You the best teacher I've had yet.  I will miss you dureing the summer.  I hope I'm one of your fav. students I tryed to be the best.

Dear Mr. Horan - Thanks for making 4th grade the best at freedom.  You are a fun teacher.  I hope you find a lovely women to hang out with.  Your the best!

Thanks for a GREAT PERFECT year!  Your the Best teacher EVER!  Mr. Horan, You are a great teacher!  You have been my favorite!  I am going to miss you!  The journal I gave you is for you to record what you did this summer!  Thanks for a GREAT year!  (She then gave me this awesome notebook that she had decorated the cover and labeled for me to write about the things I did this summer. They even gave me a list of some fun ideas, very clever and thoughtful!)

I did try really hard to make every child feel special and that they were one of my favorites.  Hopefully they felt that, because I really did care about them.  I started and ended the year reading a book called You Are Special, and these wonderful children will always have a special place in my heart.  I had a lot of favorites, and it's good to see that they not only saw that I cared about them, but they cared about me.  Hopefully I find that lovely women to hang out with this summer!

If I Was the Computer Teacher

As a teacher who uses and loves technology, I have been blessed with a really great opportunity to have a positive impact on not only my class, but my entire school.  Our computer teacher is retiring and our principal wants my help, along with two others from my school, to create yearlong outlines for the new teacher.  These plans will be for each of the grades at our school, K-6.

I know there are some things I would love, as a 4th grade teacher, for my students to learn in computers, then I can take it, run with it, and apply it to my curriculum.  I also know that I do not know everything, or what other teachers may want.  (I will ask the teachers at my school this as well) The new computer teacher will obviously have the freedom to do their job, and not be imprisoned by our general guidelines and ideas.

Because I want to do this right, and because I have such a knowledgeable PLN, I want your help!  Are you a technology specialist, teacher, administrator, who has seen anything specific work really well?  What are some of the crucial aspects you would include?

A little info on our school:  We have 1,200 students.  They each get to go to computers, in our computer lab, for half an hour once a week.  Besides our computer lab, our 6th grade classes are 1:1 with laptops, 4th and 5th are 2:1, and 1st-3rd each have one class set of laptops between the 5-6 classes in their grade.  We have the iLife programs in our computer lab as well as all of the classroom sets.

Another side issue, we got an amazing grant to get all of these laptops several years ago.  They are now 3-4 years old, the batteries won't hold charges, and many teachers have decided it is not worth the hassle to use them often.  We are looking into this as well, but really this is just for ideas for our computer teacher to use in the computer lab, that has nice brand new computers.

So if you were able to make a positive technological impact for 1,200 students, what are some of the things you would include?  If you know somebody who could help, please send them this link.