I Found My Keys

Today in class I was chatting with this guy next to me. He told me he'd been married for almost a year, and he never thought he'd be married so young. Then he gave me this analogy: He asked me if I'd ever lost my keys and then kept looking for them once I found them. I said of course not, and he said that's like finding your other half, you don't keep looking once you've found it.

I hope my future husband says cute things like that to strangers when we're married. I could tell he really loved his wife.

I'm Back!!

Yes, I know it's been over a MONTH since I have blogged and I really don't have an excuse other than I had a little break and felt like doing nothing, then life got really busy. But anyway I have a lot to update the 3 people who read this blog.
We'll start with Laurent's birthday! He turned 21 at the end of August! His birthday was the first day of school so we celebrated a little early. The weekend before we went to Jackson Hole and went whitewater river rafting! It was his first time, and we had SO much fun! We bought a few of the pictures and a frame that has Snake River written on it. It is now hanging on the wall in his apartment. Later that weekend we went to Las Vegas for my cousin's wedding, then back to Logan just in time for him to start school. On his birthday I made him a home-cooked meal! Props to me, right? He said he liked it so let's hope he wasn't lying. It has been so nice to spend more than a weekend at a time with him. I'm used to seeing him for 3 days once a month, I'm so happy he's a little closer to me now.
Next, I moved to Salt Lake City. It's been a little hard adjusting to living here-in such a big city, but I'm making the best of it. School has started, and so far so good.
There are a lot of strange people who live in this city. I had the pleasure of coming into one on one contact with one of them. Next to my place of employment there is a salon, I decided to go get my hair trimmed after work one day, I walk in and the first red flag is a middle aged Asian man running the front desk. I'm in no way raciest because in other lines of cosmetology work, Asian's kill at doing nails. But for some reason this looked a little suspect to me. He seemed really excited to see me, and practically pushed me down on the chair and told me to wait-only five minutes! About ten minutes later I see him coming my way with a grocery bag in hand. He hands me the bag and says, "This for you!" I look inside and to my horror there are about 7 rotten bananas! I politely thank him, although in my head I'm thinking, WTF? I wait about five more minutes and decide to make a break for it. When his back is turned I quickly dash out the door, leaving the bananas behind. I expected to see him running after me in my rear-view mirror as I drove away, but luckily I had escaped. I guess I was too scared to let someone cut my hair who offered me black bananas as a treat.
Anyway, those are the highlights of the last few weeks. I could include a lot more, but I promise to start blogging regularly now. It’ll be easy with school back in session cause it seems I can always find something better to do than homework.
P.S. Keep checking back, because I might have a guest author writing here in the near future!

College Application Essay

As I have been applying to a new school, I have also had to re-write acceptance essays. I thought I would share this one here:
The world is often looked at with a flat and non-dynamic perspective. Many people are concerned only with their local spheres of interest. In the course of my life I have seen many different cultures and people. In addition to being born in Namibia and living in Oxford, England, my family’s travels have taken me to close to twenty other countries. In these travels I have seen shantytowns of South Africa in contrast to the opulent lives of Americans. From this contrast I have noticed that although the African people lack material possessions they are generally happier than their “richer” American counterparts. This observation has led me to ponder what matters in life and has shaped my goals for college. While many go to college with introverted aims I am seeking my degree with hopes to better the lives of those around me and use my education to benefit others.

Sweetie Pie

I love to create beautiful food. Mostly cakes or desserts. For four years I have been a cake decorator at Baskin Robins where I have learned it all. Lately I have been trying my own creations at home. I decided that I also need to learn to make things taste good, I'm really good at the aesthetics side of things, but really don't know much about cooking/baking. Until a few months ago I haven't really cooked/baked much and I decided to start big. With a Black Forest cake. Absolutely the most delicious thing EVER! It turned out amazing! Shocked myself, and my family!
I have been following this darling blog that has inspired me. I needed to take a treat to some people today so I selected her recipe for carmel filled snicker doodles. They turned out so well! I have surprised myself with desserts I have made at home, take a look!


Here are some other creations I have made over the last little while...
Crayon box cake for Drew's school cake auction! (Best cake competing! In my opinion...)

Chocolate mint clown cup cakes-just for fun!

Now this isn't the actual picture of the cake, but I made an identical one to this at Baskin Robbins the other day.

Anyway, I've done a few wedding cakes over the years, and tons and tons of crazy birthday ones. So if you or anyone you know need a cake let me know! I've even started making my own ice cream cakes at home!

Ni ryari izuba, Rizagaruka, Hejuru yacu, Ni nd' uzaricyeza ricyeza

I think about my beloved Rwanda everyday of my life. Sometimes the stories I heard, and things I saw still haunt me. I know I was only 3 years old when the genocide happened, and not even living in the US at the time, but I can't help but feel anger towards America for turning their backs on the people of Rwanda who were being slaughtered everyday.



America, the Land of the Brave? Think again. So many lives could have been saved if they put in even a little bit of effort. Over a three-month period over 1 million innocent men, women and children were murdered. Why? Because of hate. I came to Rwanda 17 years after the genocide, but yet I was told they STILL find bodies every 2 weeks or so. I figured out that, that is equal to FOUR 9/11 attacks a day. Yes it is a travesty when anyone is a victim of a hate crime, but what makes the victims of 9/11 more important than the Tutsi's of Rwanda?



I try to stay positive because my experience there was wonderful, and I met so many brave compassionate people who watched their families killed right before their eyes, yet they have forgiven those who trespassed against them, so why should I still feel anger?

A piece of chocolate a day keeps the psychiatrist away

I have an addiction to chocolate. I literally eat ONE piece a day to keep me sane. I figure I exercise about 1.5hrs a day (plus running around at work all day) so I can allow myself this little luxury. I LOVE Dove Chocolates for the little sayings inside each wrapper. I won't share them with anyone unless they promise to tell me what it says.

"We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do"

Today Laurent told me I am just like Mother Teresa but cuter! That is why I love him.

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent

I am going to write the kind of blog post I would love to read-the kind that is really putting it all out there. It has been no secret that the past year of my life has not been a pleasure cruise. I usually keep personal details of my life to myself and maybe to 1 or 2 of my closest friends, so most do not know anything I have been dealing with. Because of the hard hits I have taken this year my self-confidence has severally dropped. I did not realize quite how bad it was until my best friend slammed it in my face today, and I realize it is critical to change.
I often look at myself and wonder where has that girl gone who was happy all the time? Where is the girl who was always smiling, and nobody ever heard her say an unkind word to anyone? Where has that girl disappeared to who loved life and thought she was on top of the world? At times I don’t even recognize myself, and want desperately for the old Margot to re-appear. So I have a plan, I will bring her back. But this time she will be new and improved and much stronger so she never has to feel this again.
1. Today I decided to make a list of things I loved about myself. (Cheesy I know but it seems appropriate in my state) I listed two things, and could not think of a single other thing. SERIOUS PROBLEM. I texted my best friend Julie and told her without any explanation that I couldn’t name more than 2 things I love about myself. Without asking why I was making such a list, or thinking it strange, she replied asking if she could tell me some things she loves about me. With in the next minute my inbox was flooded with over ten things she loves about me. Some examples: Sense of humor, perfect teeth, the gift I have with the piano, she loves watching and talking to me while I put my make up on and do my hair, how brave I was to go to Africa, how I support her anything she chooses, and my strength. I know it is absolutely PATHTIC but I need to be reminded of such things frequently especially by those I love. It made me able to carry on with my own list, a few are: I love how passionate I am. If I set my mind to doing something I love IT WILL GET DONE, and be perfect. I get very passionate about people, causes, and projects. I passionately love people, and will support and love them till the bitter end no matter how many times they hurt me. I love how affectionate I am. I love to sit close to people, I hold my little brothers hand constantly, and not to mention all the love and affection I smother Laurent with. My favorite feeling in the world is cuddling a small child and feeling their fingers wrapped around mine. I love how organized I am and my ability to multi-task. Without this I would be lost at my job, and school. Lastly, I love that I can cry like a baby while listening to beautiful opera music.
2. Why in the world shouldn’t I be happy? I feel like so many people think happiness is some gift they need to earn. I recently came across this quote that has change my outlook considerably. “People universally tend to think that happiness is a stroke of luck, something that will maybe descend upon you like fine weather if you are fortunate enough. But that's not how happiness works. Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes even travel around the world looking for it.” We all know that I saw my fair share of pain and suffering in Rwanda. People who had watch their whole family murdered before their eyes-yet a smile never left their face. They never hesitated to welcome me in to their home; they never stopped singing and dancing. They are truly a beautiful example to me. If they can be happy, why not me?
3. Body Image. I realize this portion of my entry will be shallow. Having a parasite is one of the worst things that could have happened to me. It made me starving for junk food all the time. It stole all the nutrients from my body leaving me with the bad that caused me to gain weight. Constant stomach bloating is also a symptom. I have always been very careful with my body to keep it fit, sexy and healthy. So sudden weight gain, and a flabby tummy made me want to die. I have been working out tons lately, and slowly but surely I am getting my old body back. Not to say I was ever fat or overweight, but not having my model body has been devastating to me. It has caused me to never want to wear anything but sweatpants and made me hate myself every time I looked in the mirror. I really think the endorphins of working out have been helpful to me.
4. How to fix the problem. This will be a long, life long process. First and foremost I will stop making excuses/apologies for who I am. I am one of the most unique people you will ever meet, and that makes me special. Every day I will force negative thoughts out of my head. I will do some act of service for another EVERYDAY. Stop telling myself I don’t deserve things; I deserve to be happy and feeling wonderful. Doing all of these things will make my friendships stronger, my relationship with Laurent better, and most importantly I will love myself. "Never forget that once upon a time, in an unguarded moment, you recognized yourself as a friend."
I know I will need a lot of love and encouragement to complete my journey of being someone I can love and share with others for the rest of my life. I know I must love myself and accept who I am and fully be what I am, then, when I am back my simple presence can make others happy.

Knysna (nyzz-nah)

I know that I am officially a crazy dog person now because I am dedicating this whole post to my dog, but I don't care because I love her so much! Knysna (one of our favorite places in South Africa) is the nicest dog you will meet. She loves everyone of all ages, race, and gender-unless she thinks someone is threatening you. No matter where you are in the house she will come lay down next to you, and be your shadow. Because she is a Saint Bernard she has a lazy streak a mile long. Every morning when I say it's time for her walk she lays back down and fake snores. I could go on forever about my perfect beautiful dog, but I will stop now and just let you enjoy the pictures of her growing up!

You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive

I have some bad news that might be a secret to most... If you have ever driven with me, you know you have to hold on tight. It's not that I'm really a bad driver, it's just that I like to get to places quickly. Someone once told me I drive like I'm in Africa all the time-weaving in and out of traffic, not using full stops, you know... My mom even told me that driving with me is like riding on a ride at Disney Land. But here's the secret, when I am driving with others I use my best driving behavior. What you might say!? Yes it's true I'm actually a worse driver when I'm driving solo.
1. I have been pulled over 3 times, but I have never gotten a ticket!
2. The day I got my license I backed in to someone, but didn't really do any damage.
3. I have hit probably 50 garbage cans.
4. Ran into a fence.
5. Knocked my side mirror off when I drove into a hedge.
6. Nearly flipped the car (with the whole family in it) while trying to text and drive.
I'm pretty sure I could go on, but I will stop here, because I still want people to drive with me, because I'm really not that bad of a driver. I promise.

The sad thing is, I think I might be capable of something like this...

Love yourself, for if you don't, how can you expect anybody else to love you?

I realize I might step on a few toes with this blog, but this is a place for me to express myself, so here I go. You know how sometimes when you’re stressed you eat A LOT? Well I do the opposite. When I am under stress, I physically cannot eat a thing. I had a very stressful morning that wiped me out for the entire day - never felt hungry at all, just nauseous. When I finally forced myself to eat, it didn't agree with me and I got sick and lost it all anyway. I realize it’s not the healthiest thing to do, but I honestly can’t help it.
The thing I get most bothered about is if someone is under stress and gains a little bit of weight nobody cares, but if they lose weight no one understands it. In my opinion it is just as bad to be called too skinny as over weight. It’s basically saying that whoever you are isn’t right.
So, stop asking my mom if I’m okay or if I’ve lost weight-I’m just fine! I’ve just had a stressful year. Luckily with this parasite I have developed a bloated tummy so it has gotten a few people off my case. I love eating healthy, and exercising, and I try to love my body no matter what shape it is in!

When I grow up I want to be...

After years of being asked what I want to be when I grow up, I can finally answer that question! If you know me, you know I have a wide variety of interests, so I couldn't just settle on one degree; I'm going for 3.

#1 Interior Designer. This is what I started college majoring in; the only difference is that I'm going to get my associates now instead of bachelors. Reasoning: I love designing, and being creative but not so much the technical side of it, which is what a lot of the bachelor's degree focused on. I really didn't see a point in taking a bunch of classes in things I would NEVER actually use in my career. This will be a good profession when I have a family because I can just work from home and take on as many clients as I feel comfortable doing!

#2 Global Studies, with a minor in Travel and Tourism. This is an obvious choice for me-someone who has lived their whole life traveling. I love learning about the world, and traveling is probably my number one passion in life. With the minor in T&T it will also give me some great job opportunities.
#3 I want to get my Masters in Country Development. Ever since volunteering in Rwanda it has opened my eyes so much to how badly other countries need our help. This masters program is offered mostly outside the US, which is great because I would love to move someone outside the country for an extended period of time. This also fits perfectly with what Laurent wants to do, Anthropology, (just like my father, funny?!) with an emphasis on archeology. I don't like planning too far in advance, but I could see him out in the field digging/doing research while I work for a NGO like World Vision.
Anyway, I feel good about finally reaching a decision! I know it'll be a long road with lots of hard work, but I'm ready!

Concrete Jungle

I recently returned from one of the best trips of my life! I was lucky enough to go to New York City with Laurent! His sister and nephew live there, and his parents were coming over from France to visit, so it was the perfect opportunity to meet the family! I was really nervous, but that quickly faded, because he has the most wonderful family in the world. We had such a good time, it was Laurent's first time in NYC so we got to go see all the fun sights. The best part though was being able to spend 10 WHOLE days with my best friend!

A few highlights!




Love him!

The Crypt Keeper

I am obsessed with the popular show called 16 and Pregnant, and then following that, Teen Mom. It mainly fascinates me, and admittedly makes me cry all the time. I think it is a great show that in no way encourages teen pregnancy or glorifies it. I feel it does quite the opposite. Also I cannot dismiss that I learned a lot from it when it comes to delivering babies which came in helpful in Rwanda. Anyway, when I was watching Teen Mom online a little bit ago I was reading some of the comments on the video and someone said that Farra's mom looked like the Crypt Keeper. Curious, I looked it up and fell off my chair laughing because there is an undeniable similarity.

Well at least the "Crypt keeper" produced a beautiful child, and passed on further DNA to make a beautiful granddaughter (Sophia).

Current Obsessions

1. Jewelry making. I basically taught myself how to make necklaces, and am thrilled with my new skill!
2. Hula-hoop work outs. Don't laugh! They really give you a good workout!
3. Pocket pigs. They stay tiny their whole lives, and get trained to use a litter box! Laurent said we can get one!
4. Harem pants. My sisters from Norway introduced them to me, and I LOVED borrowing them! But I am now having a hard time tracking some down in the US. HELP!

You Know You're In Trouble When...

...the people around you remind you of people you've seen on the Jerry Springer show. A few weeks ago for work I did a catering event at the Provo City Library. The bride and groom were beautiful, and very nice and polite. However almost every single person at their wedding were SO white trash! The comments people made were unbelievable.
But the cherry on top was when this lady came through the food line, and instead of taking a little pretty cup for the punch, she filled up a

7 eleven Big Gulp cup. Unfortunately the other two working the event with me missed it, but I stood there shamelessly starting at this uncouth woman.

How wonderful life is while you're in the world

Apparently in October of 1970 Elton John, and Laurent Gontier had a conversation that went like this. (According to Laurent)

L: Elton I need you to write a song for this really special girl named Margot.
E: Sure Laurent, no problem. It'll be called your song.
L: My song?
E: No, your song, here are some of the lyrics:

My gift is my song and this one's for you
And you can tell everybody this is your song…
I hope you don't mind that I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you're in the world…
Anyway the thing is what I really mean
Yours are the sweetest eyes I've ever seen

41 years later I finally got the song that was written for me. Thank you Laurent! I love you more than I have words for. You truly are my better half, thank you for being the amazing person you are.

Side note: Laurent has actually played tennis with Elton John!