Small Factor

Photo Friday

2011-01-07T15:26:00.000-08:00

Tulips

A nice bright flower to bring a smile during the dreary inversion.

Photo Friday

2010-12-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

Baby Nick Nolte

Photo Friday

2010-12-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

Photo Friday

2010-12-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Lights

Photo Friday

2010-12-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Slice of Heaven

Boulder, Utah

Take Two of These...

2010-12-09T10:21:00.001-08:00

So I've been sick. I have a stupid head cold. Nothing serious, just annoying. But it makes me not want to do anything beyond laying on the couch and watching television. So that is what I did yesterday. And then today, I felt less foggy and thought I should make an appearance at work. (I really would have stayed home if I hadn't already taken time off for my stupid root canal/penicillin nightmare two weeks ago).

Now, the problem remains that I still want to be laying on the couch, so work is dreadful. Besides the fact that I was super productive earlier this week and got the majority of my cases closed. All I really have to do is make some phone calls and I sound sad (stuffed nose, sore throat sad) so nobody wants to hear me.

Somedays being super productive is bad....

Photo Friday

2010-12-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Rose of Sharon

Photo Friday

2010-11-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

Great Salt Lake

On Earth....

2010-11-22T17:11:00.000-08:00

Day Three

This was just our finish up day. And it just happened to be SO busy we didn't do a whole lot of riding.

Kelly's family and myself went to Goofy's Kitchen for breakfast.

Then the day was spent just hitting a few rides and shopping.

Baloo

Goofy - it was his kitchen after all.

Mulan - my favorite of all the princesses!

I love the Bear's face in this picture....

It's a Small World seems to always be closed.

We got some "inside" information and learned it would be open

for a couple hours our last day. So we sort of "camped out" and waited.

Luckily for us we made the right decision and got on the second boat.

And it was FABULOUS!

(The line was all the way down the sidewalk by the time we got off).

My caramel apple!

A little pricey (but what isn't at Disneyland?!),

but totally delicious!

Place....

2010-11-21T16:57:00.000-08:00

Day Two

Spent at California Adventure -- which included several times on California Screamin'

and Tower of Terror (although I only did that one once).

Happiest....

2010-11-20T16:15:00.000-08:00

Day One

Spent the second week of November in Disneyland with the family.

Here is a photo story of our fun....

The Bear loved Buzz Lightyear, she walked up by him and just kept saying hi.

On the other hand, The Pickle wanted nothing to do with him!

The Bear is 'so over' waiting for things!

Princess Tiana

Photo Friday

2010-11-19T10:37:00.000-08:00

Balls of Yarn

One of the coolest displays I've seen in a long time.
And not just because I love to knit!

Photo Friday

2010-11-12T08:42:00.000-08:00

Friar Tuck

For all the doubters...

2010-11-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

So, there was this one time where I mentioned that I really enjoyed the "beef bacon" my dad picked up from the meat processing plant. Well, some people (LYNN) have had too many laughs at my expense for this mix-up.

To defend myself I have searched out the elusive "beef bacon" and found it (again -- the first time was in Washington, but they prefer to call if "beef fry").

All that education has paid off some.....

(At least I know what a "Nauga" is!)

Photo Friday

2010-11-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins

Neon Orange

2010-11-02T11:55:00.000-07:00

Went to Boulder. Mainly so the big boys could do some "Elik" hunting (as Eugene says).

The rest of us did a little wandering,

visited the park (although Stinky Pete was sorely disappointed that the "park" was

the Anasazi State Park and more like a museum than park), and relaxed.

Oh, and no Elik's were harmed (much to the disappointment of the hunters).

Photo Friday

2010-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

Snowballs

(edited all fancy on my iphone)

My Feelings Exactly....

2010-10-25T11:49:00.000-07:00

Snow Sucks!

More gifs found here

Photo Friday

2010-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Tunnel

Love them!

Photo Friday

2010-10-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Morning Fog

While They're Young

2010-10-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

The final USANA concert came and went - Brad Paisley. Stinky Pete came along for the fun. She got an eye-full while watching

the crazy drunks stumble around us.

She laughed a lot and stared a lot (with very wide eyes).

Other than the unexpected cold weather it was a fabulous time!

Darius Rucker

Love his shirt!

The beautiful Brad Paisley

And he sang my favorite song, Waiting on a Woman.

Perfect ending to a great summer!

Hakuna Matata

2010-10-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

Went to the Broadway version of The Lion King with my mom.

The costumes were amazing! The singing was brilliant -- except for the African chanting stuff, that made me sleepy.

This was the best photo I could get.

Absolutely no camera's were allowed in the auditorium. The one staff said she would make a girl delete her photos if she took another one. Serious business....

Photo Friday

2010-10-08T12:29:00.001-07:00

So I'm going to try and put up one random photo every Friday. Who knows how long I'll stick with it..... at least there will be one for today!

The Moon

(on 9/24/10)

I love how you can just barely see the mountain below the moon.

Feeding the Masses

2010-10-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

Well, really I'm not sure if our family constitutes as "the masses" but we still ate a lot and had a grand old time.

This was our Labor Day picnic while dad was in town.

The girls off for a wagon ride.

Aaron and Luna

Chris and Chuck

The Pickle and Eugene (couldn't get them to make normal faces).

Everyone on Kelly's new 4-wheeler..... so much fun!

The Bear

Luna

Ashley

Violation

2010-09-30T09:33:00.000-07:00

Saw this sign outside a scrapbook store.

For some reason it hit me funny and I laughed and laughed.

Not sure many scrapbooker's plan on heading to karate after getting their craft on.

But I may be wrong!

Gilgal

2010-09-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

While Justin was in town we made a quick trip to Gilgal Gardens.

It was totally different than I remembered -- all clean and fancy now.

I was still amazed at the vision and creativeness of the designer,

Thomas Battersby Child, Jr.

And thank your to the amazing people who took on the clean up project.

Forecast

2010-08-31T11:34:00.000-07:00

So, I was going through my camera and found this picture. It does the "wet" day more justice than my iphone. Now you can really get the idea about how miserable and wet it was.

Still not sure wherever she had to be was worth it.....

100% Chance of Rain

2010-08-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

So this morning as I was driving to work, I saw this crazy lady.

And this wasn't some little rain storm.

There were some definite buckets being dumped from the skies.

I hope wherever she had to be was SUPER important,

because being cold and wet all day really aren't worth it to me.

Listen

2010-08-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

I sat on some babies a few weeks ago and just remembered these fun pictures. We went for a wagon ride. Although Stinky Pete is way too big for the wagon, so she just cruised around on my Pink Cadillac bike.

I love this picture....
The Bear refused to sit down. She just stood there holding on,
without a care in the world (including falling out).
Eugene told me that he listens and she doesn't, and how he is a good boy.

Can't you just see how good of a boy he is?!

Flying down the driveway entertained them for hours.
I'm such a good sitter of babies!

Lookee, lookee

2010-08-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

These are my NEW eyes.

Aren't they pretty?! I love them.... mostly I love waking up and just going about my day. Not worrying about glasses or contacts all the time. But I do have to admit, it is still weird. I have to pause and remember, oh yeah I can see.

(And please ignore the hair across my forehead, I have no control of my hair)

With a "g h"

2010-08-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Went to this.... on Friday night.

LOVED IT! LOVE HER!

Heather McDonald was suppose to be the opening act, but I do have to say Guy Branum didn't disappoint. He puts the "Manatee in Humanity."

I just love Guy's stance.

'Had to have been an elephant - probably named Ashleigh (always with a "g h" at the end).'

Guy hugged me and then said I was gorgeous!
Reminded me of the girl on the cruise who said I was "f-ing adorable!"

(Confused as to why women and gay men think so highly of me and straight men make no comments -- what gives?!)

Chelsea signing my book.

It was nice to get so close and actually say hi, but that was the limit -- got to keep this area clear and the line moving. No pictures "with" her only "of" her.

Drunken Rage

2010-08-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

It's summer again and I of course am enjoying the wild and crazy people at the USANA concert series. I missed the first show because it rained. But I wasn't going to miss Time McGraw.

The usual crowd was there -- mini skirts, tube tops, and lots of cowboy boots. (Which really makes no sense... I was in flip-flops and shorts and thought I would die from heat, if I had on boots I for sure would have passed out).

This lady happens to be on Barbara's team -- the grandma Carma pants and "lace" boots were the team uniform that day!

Super Hero

2010-08-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

The Californian's came to visit, so we had a little impromptu barbeque. The Bear also was turning 1 the next day, so we decided to eat some cupcakes to celebrate -- really our arms didn't need to be twisted.

The boys had a wild and crazy time. Eugene fell off the trampoline two different times in glorious fashion. The adults just sat around and chatted

(or gossiped, whatever you prefer to call it).

Eugene, Boogers, and The Pickle -- I mean Batman, Spiderman, and the Evil Black Spiderman

In the Hood

2010-08-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

This is the window above the table in Olive Garden where I was trying to enjoy my lunch. Every time a car drove past I had to duck for fear of being shot.

I think I need to start dining in more respectable neighborhoods

-- rather than West Valley!

(And you'd think Olive Garden could afford to get that fixed sooner rather than later. Not sure a bullet hole in your window attracts a lot of business. Then again, maybe it does).

Finale

2010-08-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I have dragged out this holiday posting for too long. It was just going to be over a week, then I got busy and forgot. Whatever -- just be happy I posted!

Anyway, back to Washington.....

We drove to Spokane a day before my flight home to spend a couple hours sight-seeing.

The River Park still attracted my attention. It was a beautiful day.

This is a shot from the Tram Ride over the Spokane Falls.

It was beastly hot inside the car and freaked me out with all the stopping and bouncing. Well, and the windows were foggy so you couldn't really see out them and there was no way I was going to stand up.

Runner statues.

Apparently there is a BIG marathon here, who knew?!

(Well, my dad new, but he lives in the vicinity so that doesn't count).

I didn't get to play on the wagon, just snap a quick shot as we drove past.
The handle of the wagon is a slide... how cool is that?!

Strange Occurrences

2010-08-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

Some weird things started happening....

Eugene's ear swelled up (the picture doesn't do it justice, it was HUGE).

Stinky's Pete's tongue turned black...

Then Eugene's tongue turned blue....

I blame Washington!

Truer Words...

2010-07-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

In response to this......
Chelsea’s wedding: $15K for toilets

My grandma said this....
You can crap in any toilet!

UnHappy Swimmers

2010-07-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

Boating in the lake was not quite what everyone expected. Stinky Pete finished the swim-check in no time flat. She said it was totally easy. Kelly and Barbara finished a little while after Stinky Pete. Then there was all that drama about buddies and lack of buddies and little children and, and, and....

Finally they got to go in a rowboat.

We didn't, but I think we still had fun anyway.

This is Eugene's weird water dance. It was hilarious!

Happy Campers

2010-07-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

We made it to camp and spent several glorious days relaxing.

Here are some random shots of our fun.

Farmer at Heart

2010-07-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

After a rest in Butt(e), Montana -- actually we didn't even drive into Butt(e) we stayed on the outskirts in Rocker, Montana. Which is an ok place, but just so you know... make sure and take shampoo with you. Seriously, what hotel in this day and age doesn't at least have a tiny bottle of shampoo?! Motel 6 in Rocker doesn't.

Anyway, we had a long drive still to go. But we did manage to stop and enjoy these -

This is the tractor I want. The exact one. Someday....

Oh, and funny story about the tractor store. As I was perusing the racks of clothes, someone pages Mike Rowe. I immediately perk up and start frantically scanning for that amazing, hilarious man. No such luck. Then my mom apparently said she heard them page "The Dirty Jobs Guy" and I again started searching. If a new Dirty Jobs airs about the John Deere store in Missoula, I'll be pissed that I was there and didn't get to meet Mike Rowe.

That would have been AWESOME!

After Missoula, we drove and drove, then wandered around Main Street in Couer d'Alene.

I found some great jewelry and saw these cute little statues.

Museums of Potatoes

2010-07-21T09:50:00.001-07:00

We headed off on our LONG drive to Warshington. I've heard rumors that the Potato Museum can't be missed, so we stopped. Too bad it was closed for the evening. I did manage to get this shot from the car.

And since I've never seen the actual falls that Idaho Falls is named after, we stopped there as well. I wasn't too impressed, but whatever. The rotten fish stench left much to be desired. Even with the smell there was a ton of people enjoying the nice summer weather.

Changes

2010-07-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

So apparently I logged onto my blog and found a fancy little note stating my background was going to disappear if I didn't change it. Well, I didn't want to change it and I like the black/white/red design. But I tried to fix it and since I'm only a basic blogger, we ended up with this new fancy design. Hope it is pleasing to all of you, if not... too bad.

Out of the mouth....

2010-07-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Statement of the month (although it was said last month, or maybe the month before -- it is still hilarious and I need it documented forever).

Scene: Me jumping out and scaring Eugene. Later, Eugene jumping up and scaring Grandma. She responded by saying he scared her.
To which Eugene replied, in his most serious voice, "Jamie scared me out of the crap."

Still funny!

Feel Bads

2010-07-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

I really don't know what to say.... I have neglected this fancy little blog for quite some time. Although I know my followers are limited to a select few, I feel bad for myself for seeming like I don't have any funny things to share with the Internet Machine.

I have reasons - they aren't excuses if they are true! Work has been chaotic. This new job thing has actually been great. The first month was really hard and I worried daily that I would be yelled at for unknown reasons. (And just so you know, that has never happened). I lucked out and got a GREAT supervisor who is open to my ramblings about the Evil Ice Queen (sometimes when I am really mad at her I will add a mean word to the end of that title, but I will save your precious minds today). And that GREAT supervisor is also SO easy going, I'm starting to feel my place in the social work arena again.

Even with all that goodness, I had a lot of crazy cases. In a matter of three weeks I had to remove six -- yes I typed that correctly, SIX -- children. Three separate cases, three separate court hearings, a bazillion documents to fill out. This has consumed me all day and sometimes into the evening.

Today, I finally have a little breathing room. Actually I do have some paperwork I need to get caught up on, but I have a couple hours to work on that still.

And just in case you were wondering..... I haven't only done work things for the past month. I also got new eyes, went jet-skiing for the first time, and knitted up some treasures. (I did other things too I'm sure, I just don't want to make you jealous of all my fun -- or announce that I'm boring because I only did those few things).

Later today I'm off to the fabulous state of Warshington again. Road-tripping up then flying home. I will make sure and take lots of glorious pictures so this little blog can get back on track.

Handy...

2010-06-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

So, my dear friend Tara posted a fabulous piano bench that she made. She got the plans from Knock-Off Wood and suggested everyone check out the blog. So I did just that (mostly because Tara has never steered me wrong and work was super slow, so I needed something to waste time). Anyway, so I did some stalking and came upon this fabulous bed. I have been looking for a new headboard/footboard for at least six months -- and by new I mean finally having one.

Several years ago my dad and I made a bed frame, but with all the moves I have done in the past four years, it kind of got lost somewhere.

When I saw the plans for this bed, I knew it was exactly what I wanted. I quickly printed the plans and announced to my dad that we would be making this bed when he was back in town.

Low and behold (and lots of dollars later) we did it....

(Sorry the pictures don't do it justice, you'll just have to come over and see it for yourself!)

To say I love it is an understatement. It is fabulous!

I am so excited every time I walk in my room and see it. I even took the time this morning to make the bed, so it will continue to look pretty for when I return home after a long day of work. (Well, the blanket/pillows help. After much searching I found the blanket at Target - and some sheets - and I love them as much as the bed).

What to make next?!

Pampered

2010-06-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

I had a conference in Midway two weeks ago and it was fantastic. Mostly because I actually got to spend two nights at the beautiful Zermatt hotel (instead of driving home every night and back every morning). Lucky is an understatement.

My hotel room was FABULOUS! There was a kitchen - not just a kitchenette - an actual kitchen with all fixings. Then there was a living room with a full size couch and a huge television.

And then we come to the bedroom with the

ginormous king size bed,

the huge television (to watch while lying in my ginormous king size bed), and a balcony.

I don't want to forget the bathroom. Now this bathroom was larger than some hotel rooms I have stayed in. It had two sinks - in separate locations. A spa tub with separate shower --- and elevator doors. It was magical!

Now, I didn't take a single picture of the heavenly hotel room. Mostly because the minute I walked in I just felt like relaxing and enjoying myself. Not having a care in the world.....

I did get a few shots of the view from my balcony.

You all know my love of tractors (although it wasn't true love since it wasn't a John Deere)

End of Days...

2010-05-21T13:48:00.000-07:00

I wandered through downtown Wenatchee two different days.

The weather was perfect - a nice 70ish spring day.

There was some good shopping had and good relaxing.

This was a restaurant just a block from my dad's office, threw me at first.

Random frog sculpture in town.

The River Park.

The walkway was closed for maintenance, so I didn't actually get to wander along the river. But I did still get to see the river and take some amazing pictures of foliage.

(Had to take a picture of the "W" for Wendy -- she took all those John Deere pictures for me!)

And this is the fountain I sat in front of for two hours.

Reading and sun-bathing (which turned out to be more like sun-burning).

Lederhosen anyone?

2010-05-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

This is a cute little Bavarian town outside Wenatchee -- Leavenworth. There were a ton of shops to visit and I did end up with some good finds.

The mountains surrounding the town were breathtaking.

This is the Icicle River. The name alone makes me not want to get too close.
Rumor is they raft down the river. There are some serious rapids
(which these pictures don't do justice).
Not sure I'm up for the ride.

Contact

2010-05-19T13:42:00.000-07:00

One day we drove up to Mission Ridge Ski Resort. It was a tiny little resort and there was actually nothing there on our visit - end of the season and all.

There was an amazing view of the town below...

Also drove up to Lake Bonaparte one afternoon. Along the way we saw these....

Big brother? Aliens? Who knows, but I made sure not to make any

terroristic threats while in Washington.

Mike Rowe Dam

2010-05-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

I actually got to go inside the 'Mike Rowe Dam'. It was fabulous! Although I would have much preferred to see Mike Rowe himself working away (and offering to take me out on the town or whatever.... I'm just saying I wouldn't kick him out of bed!)
Anyway, back to the Dam.
So they have these fish ladder things for the Salmon to swim back upstream to spawn.

There was a ton of fish heading upstream.

The water is really murky, but it was still really cool to see the fish jump through each window. This is what the fish ladder looks like outside.

(And I love the yellow tree - some lady said it looked like someone glued the blossoms onto the tree branches).

Here's a view from the top of the Dam into town.

And this is one of the propellers in the Dam.

(Mike Rowe worked on these when he was there).

Islands

2010-05-18T08:24:00.000-07:00

On the way into town we visited Crescent Bar. It is a little island, full to the brim with trailer-ish homes. It reminded me of a little retirement town.

(There's all this controversy about the "temporary" residents - you'll have to ask my dad for an explanation).It was nice until I saw this......

And then right outside town is this Dam (Rock Island). I was so excited because I thought it was the 'Mike Rowe Dam' but it wasn't. This state has Dam everywhere you turn.

(Don't worry, I still went to the 'Mike Rowe Dam'.... like I would miss that!)

How do you like them Apples?

2010-05-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

Had a fabulous vacation in the great state of Washington. Traveled a lot, saw a lot, and relaxed a lot. I loved it!

I took lots of photos, so I will update in the next couple of days...

(Now I need to pretend to get some work done).

Turning Over....

2010-05-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Life hasn't just gotten away from me, it buried me in ten feet of dirt and has expected me to claw my way out. I have excuses this time.... work stress which led to life stress which led to medical stress (high blood pressure, severe sinus infection, anxiety, over-eating, and a random cold sore).

The transfer of jobs is now complete. It was not a pleasant experience and I have still not fully recovered from the train hitting me (see there is a reason I don't like trains!) at a million miles an hour, but I'm hoping in a few weeks I will feel some normalcy again.

That train that hit me spewed words like "unacceptable" "corrective action" "skulk" "avoidance" "insubordination". All of which came as a complete shock, but I guess that is what happens when you are hit by a train.

Anyway, I'm off to Washington for a week hoping I will be able to finally get rid of the last foot or two of dirt that I still haven't been able to get out from under.

P.S. I will try to take lots of pictures of my lazy self doing nothing to share with you.

Driving, driving, driving...

2010-04-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

I've done a ton of driving for work lately. I've been everywhere man... (I hope you're all singing now!) Anyway, the driving is to be expected since I cover the entire state, but some days it gets

really boring, and other days it is loads of fun.

Wendy and I saw this....

We stumped JP for quite awhile with that photo (and yes, it is in Utah!)

Then I was driving in Pleasant Grove and had to wait for this....

(And I hate trains, so this wasn't a fun moment)

And I also stopped and stared in amazement at this frozen "pond"...

And then spent the night in this fabulous hotel.....

The hotel is fabulous, but the location totally sucks -- Vernal. But if you HAVE to go there, then stay here. And when you d0, roll around on the great beds, and slide the doors (yes I said slide, so cool and exactly what I want in my own house -- 'elevators' everywhere!), and sit with the fun pillows, and wander the halls admiring the cool designs on the walls.

Picture Day

2010-04-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

Since Justin and Colleen were coming up for a visit, my mom decided it was time to update the family picture. Time was limited (Justin had meetings all week) and weather was horrible, so we ended up doing them in Kelly and Barbara's basement. The Photographer does amazing work, so I'm sure everything will turn out beautifully.

Here's just some random shots I took...

Chuck was SO tired.... it was hilarious to see her just want to suck her fingers and sleep.

Winter Wonderland

2010-04-11T15:54:00.000-07:00

Made a trip to Granny's house again.

The reason, Aunt Neta's funeral, wasn't the greatest, but it was a nice trip.

Actually, it was only a nice trip when we weren't driving.

I got REALLY car sick -- I even asked Kelly to pull over at one point and push me out of the truck, it would have been nicer to have just died on the side of the road.

And then on the drive home Eugene got sick and vomited all over himself. So that made for a nice smell the rest of the four hour drive home.

There is still a TON of snow, but it was a lot warmer than I expected.
It truly is a beautiful place, even more so with all the snow covering the ground.

These two pictures are some of my favorite pictures I've ever taken. I love tractors, so that one is obvious. But the one with Eugene wandering down the driveway just turned out amazing.

And the best part was, no funny faces since he's walking!

Super -- he looked a little rough, but I was assured it was due to the winter.

And here's my cute Granny with The Bear. The Bear is just so mild-mannered, she let anyone hold her. (Although once she realized in the car that I wasn't her mom she freaked out and screamed for about an hour straight. It was fantastic!)

Green Day

2010-04-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

My birthday (well, and St Patrick's Day) came and went. It was a great birthday even though I had to work. I got lots of free meals and plenty of cake... what more could a girl ask for?!

Spoiled kids -- new shirts for MY birthday. But they are super cute :)

I Coulda Been A Contender...

2010-04-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

Kelly called and offered for me to sit on some babies so he could take Barbara to the Jazz game. Good thing I love his babies.... (would've been the second game I got screwed out of -- Aaron).

Then he called back and offered to take me to the game instead.

What a GREAT birthday present!

Our seats were Row 8 (really, Row 8, not nose-bleed section Row 8).

This was our view... no zoom or anything -- I actually paid attention (and only people watched a little!)

We were so close the old people by us needed earplugs, due to all the loud screaming!

Stupid ball-boys kept getting in the way, couldn't get a good picture.

See #12? He is only 5'5". Seriously, that is only and inch taller than me.... I could've had a shot!

Oh, yeah, and the Jazz won! It wasn't an edge of your seat kind of game, but it was still fantastic.

Patience

2010-04-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

So, I know I haven't updated in awhile. My reasons stem from being over-worked and laziness. (The two things I blame everything in life on). Seriously, work is a nightmare and I struggle with it every day. And by the time I get home, the last thing I want to do is sit at the computer.

Finally on Friday I was ready to update like crazy. Then this little blogger thing kept freaking out and losing my pictures. I tried twice (about 40 minutes worth of time) and still nothing, so I gave up and went about my day.

I hope to try again tonight. But with my lousy health (due to stress from the horrendous job) those plans may change.

But here's a little picture for you to enjoy in the meantime....

I tried several times to get him to smile and this is what I got.

Totally Worth Every Penny...

2010-03-12T10:35:00.000-08:00

To start this off.... I think it is only fitting to share blog #200 with

The Bon Jovi and Vegas (baby!)

(Seriously, is he not the sexiest man alive?!)

Yep, went to Vegas (baby!) again for another concert. This time I went with Anna and Hannah. We did some walking around Fremont Street, which is kind of random, but kind of cool.
We ate fried foods - but not just any fried foods,
a fried Twinkie (not that good) and a fried Oreo (really good!)

We shopped and shopped and found some great buys.

And then..... we saw The Bon Jovi (and Dashboard Confessional, who I like, but really didn't do a fabulous job - it was kind of sad).

I can't really describe the concert experience that I had. All I can say is he sang, and sang, and sang and I screamed, and screamed, and screamed.

(Yes, I still have a dry, scratchy throat almost a week later).

And then he sang Hallelujah.

Seeing it live was A-MAZING!

That moment was one of the best of my life.
The entire trip was justified because of that song.

Bass-ackwards....

2010-03-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

You know it has been a bad day all around when you finally

find time to go to the restroom at 3:45pm

(after sitting at your desk since 8:00am)

and discover your underwear has been on backwards

ALL DAY!

Fantastic....

Seriously, I may curl up under my desk and die now.

Number Nine

2010-03-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

So Anna sent me this list a few weeks ago when I was having a bad day. Well, let's be honest, I have been having a bad six months.... and it isn't suppose to get better anytime soon.

Anyway, it made me laugh and was totally true, so I decided to share it with all of you.

1. I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.
3. I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger.
4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.
5. How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
6. Was learning cursive really necessary?
7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on #5. I’m pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
9. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired.
10. Bad decisions make good stories.
11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren’t going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don’t want to have to restart my collection…again.
13. I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page research paper that I swear I did not make any changes to.
14. “Do not machine wash or tumble dry” means I will never wash this — ever.
15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Damn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voicemail. What’d you do after I didn’t answer? Drop the phone and run away?
16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.
17. I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call…
18. My 3-year old nephew asked me in the car the other day “What would happen if you ran over a ninja?” How do I respond to that?
19. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
20. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lites than Kay.

Free Advertising

2010-03-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

The other night Stinky Pete had a swim meet. She did great - although I have learned I am not a fan of swim meets. There is A LOT of sitting around on crappy benches with no back support. And there are a million people and only about a hundred seats - and 75 of those seats are covered by somebodies crap 'saving' it just in case they may want to sit down (which none of them did the ENTIRE time I was there). And although the pool area says "participants and coaches only" the 999,975 people that couldn't get seats in the stands spread out their crap along the edges of the pool. Oh, and the million people like to talk and YELL in this little building with a pool and so you think your head will explode from the noise. And there are a bazillion events and Stinky Pete only swam in three - that were not even close together (good for her, bad for my butt and back).

Back to my original thought....

Afterwards we all went to dinner at Applebee's. Eugene was sitting there all happy and ready to eat, then so nicely announced, Red Robin! Yum... He did it perfectly, just like the commercial. Right there in Applebee's and all. Hilarious!

This Just In..

2010-03-02T20:53:00.001-08:00

So apparently by trying to keep some anonymity in my life most people can't view my fabulous videos and stuff. I made some changes (which really means I had to re-download them because YouTube wouldn't let me just change them to public rather than private) and they are now out there for the world to enjoy..... (let's just hope that doesn't include the psycho's - you know they are out there).

If there are still problems, then YouTube sucks and I don't know how to fix it.

Spectacular

2010-03-02T01:46:00.000-08:00

Eugene

LOVES

Spiderman.

And he knows the song to both Spiderman cartoons.

And he conveniently joined them into one.

(I love the aa... aa.... aa... parts and tend to sing them over and over all day long)

Hats? Tags? Nope!

2010-02-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

Remember those funny stories I shared a couple weeks ago?
Well, for some reason I just continue to see the random. The best part is that usually the random happens after a long, horrible day of work and it causes me to laugh out loud.

The other day (as I was getting off the freeway again - that must be the prime spot... so I'm going to start exiting the freeway randomly so I can get a good laugh) the man behind me had on a hospital hair cover thing (the paper kind, not just the net kind). Yes, he could have been a doctor, but wouldn't you think he could have removed the hat prior to leaving the hospital. I really think he was a kitchen worker or cleaner person. And then I wondered if he just thinks it is fashionable. You never know?!

But wait, a few days after this I saw a man on the corner (by Denny's in Rose Park - prime location for viewing "team members") with a tag looking thing hanging from the bottom of his shorts. I just kept staring thinking, that is a BIG tag and why is it on the bottom of his shorts. Then as he kept walking and I got closer..... I realized it was a catheter bag. Yep, he was just enjoying a stroll with his urine bag flapping against his lower leg. I do have to say it was Rose Park, so really I wasn't that shocked. At least it wasn't full of urine, that would have been heavy to carry around.

Crazies....

2010-02-26T09:25:00.000-08:00

I think my work is purposely trying to cause me a

nervous breakdown so I will quit before they have to fire me/relocate me.

W has had these conspiracy theories for months and I never really believe her.

But now.... she may be on to something.

So W's computer has been on the fritz for quite awhile. She has literally spent hours waiting for programs to load. Mine has been slow, but I'm able to still do my work. Then, on Thursday the whole thing freaked out.

I probably spent six hours of my work day trying to

close ONE case.

It was a nightmare.

And the poor computer tech is so nice and comes right up trying to fix things --

that never really get fixed.

Anyway, I called W and told her I believed her now and I was on the verge of a

nervous breakdown. She just laughed and said, 'I told you so.'

THEN....

I woke up today and found a gray eyebrow hair

(actually it was completely white, I just skipped right over

the nice silvery color).

Seriously, that is messed up!

Now, I have the occasional gray hair on my head

(which I have come to grips with),

but my eyebrow --- WTH?!

I immediately plucked it and then had to spend a good 10 minutes calming down.

Fine, the nervous breakdown is here....

Are you happy now?!

(But I'm still not quitting!!!)

After all....

2010-02-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

This is why everyone should love George. At least this is why I love George....

And sorry about the screwy bits in the middle.

The crazy Australian chick next to us drank a lot which led to her needing to go to the bathroom a lot. Her questions about Merle Haggard made it all worth it though.

(Is this row "h-ach")

George

2010-02-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

Made a quick trip to Vegas (baby) this past weekend --- to see George!

(my new camera does these fancy panoramic shots --- I love it.... sorry Red).

The weather was terrible, rainy and cold. And of course I only took a light sweater/jacket because it's Vegas (baby) who thinks to take a jacket/coat?

Obviously not me.

We did some shopping and eating, what else do you do in Vegas (baby). Well, there is that whole gambling thing, but I never really got into that.

Barbara and I had to walk several blocks in the rain before the concert. My new shoes and pant bottoms were sopping. And then I was damp for the entire concert.

Good thing I love George so much!

Lee Ann Womack opened the show. We missed most of her performance because she started BEFORE 8:00pm, which is what was listed on the tickets. Not sure what that was all about... stupid MGM Grand.

Next was Reba. She is a fantastic performer and didn't fail during this show.

And even more fun was when Melissa Peterman joined her on stage. That woman is hilarious! I would pay good money to see her in concert.

And of course Reba can't perform without her famous hit, Does he Love You? And Lee Ann did a fabulously job as the mistress.

George was A-mazing! Barbara and I sang our hearts out and loved every single minute. George was funny and entertaining, the perfect gentleman.

Oh how I love him!

(I love this shot, the screen was just changing and the shadows are beautiful!)

Light Reading

2010-02-10T18:55:00.000-08:00

Let me paint a little picture for you....

Me, driving home from work. Stopped at a light waiting to turn left. Next to me is a man in a truck. He pulls out a magazine to do a little reading while waiting (I'm all for muti-tasking). Well, it is getting dark, so he turns on his in-cabin light. Of course I'm interested, what else do I have to stare at, the car in front of me?

Low and behold, he's reading

PORN

(yes, ladies and gentleman, that is PORNOGRAPHY)

Just a little light reading before he gets home to the wife....

Fantastic!!!

Crosswalk

2010-02-10T18:01:00.000-08:00

It has been an interesting week to say the least.

W and I went to the Layton area for work. She had to see a child at school, so I just waited in the car. (Actually several children in several schools. This story is about the third school I had to sit outside - the first, boring; the second, watched some young kids play near the street unsupervised... should I call someone about that?!; and the third, was FANTASTIC!)

When we pulled up we noticed two guys standing by a crosswalk in front of the school. The crosswalk is on a major street (Antelope Dr) with four lanes. So the older of the two men just start crossing the road. And then I see a walkie-talkie come out of his pocket. I realize this is a STING! I love it! The the second guy starts walking, and yep... walkie-talkie comes out again.

I sit and watch these two men walk back and forth across the street probably twenty or more times. (And it definitely would have been more if they had all the back-up in Layton at the ready).

And it was amazing to see how many cars drove right through the crosswalk without even hesitating.

So they would radio to a cop car who would then chase after the law-breaker. It was more fun than I have had in weeks. Seriously, I could have sat there for longer, but my legs still hurt from the damn gym and they were all stiff and achy from sitting in W's little, red car.

Red

2010-02-03T11:47:00.000-08:00

This is my cute, little camera - Red.

She has provided me with a lot of beautiful pictures over the last three years. She is the perfect size to fit in my pocket and she doesn't hesitate at all when I want a quick shot of randomness. She's traveled to many locations and always stayed in perfect form.

But this past weekend she died. Actually, she was killed. By my own mother! Yes, my mother dropped Red on the hard cement and now she is stuck in this position. I'm so sad....

So for now you will only get pictures from my cell phone, and only when I remember. Because although I like my cell phone, she is not good at the quick shot.... it really takes her a good minute or two to even register the camera function.

(What am I going to do in Vegas this weekend without her? Sorry you won't get any of this).

(S)nook

2010-02-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

It's here.... FINALLY!

And did you see the pretty packaging?

Which is really a lot cooler in person, the inside of the box is all the bright stripes of color.

You'd think they'd put that on the outside?

It took me about 20 minutes to figure out how to open the plastic,

which isn't the soft plastic you get on your random gadgets.

This is hard shell plastic that will save the little (S)nook in the event of a natural disaster.

And I even looked for directions and couldn't find them - really I was in such a rush to get the darn thing open I didn't look hard - so I just kept pulling...VERY CAREFULLY (last thing I need is a broken (S)nook).

And although it's here, it has to "charge fully prior to use" so it is just sitting there all sweet... and I'm just sitting here chomping at the bit waiting to play.

Good thing I did a ton of work today and really have very little to do tomorrow, guess I'll be 'reading' in my office.

Phil

2010-02-02T06:47:00.000-08:00

HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY!

I remember in elementary school, Groundhog Day was so cool. Everyone remembered it and I'm sure we patiently waited for the Groundhog to see his shadow
(or not see his shadow? The one with no more winter).

And how do you get to be Punxsutawney Phil? Is there a contest?

Or is it family tradition? And what if your name isn't Phil,

can you still do it?

p.s. Phil did see his shadow, which apparently means

six more weeks of winter....
Phil - I'm no longer a fan

Beaten

2010-01-31T11:41:00.001-08:00

As usual, it's the first of a new year and I've started that broken record again..... get healthier, lose weight, blah, blah, blah. And actually I was doing really well, until I met a trainer at the gym. Now, the gym is nothing new to me, and trainers aren't really either. But for some reason, this trainer has caused me a world of pain for the last three days. It sort of feels like someone has beaten my legs with a two by four. I'm fine sitting down, but any sort of movement is EXCRUCIATING. This is no exaggeration, just ask anyone around me - I scream out in pain a lot.
Oh, and I really regret moving into the basement, stairs are the worst. I would curl up in a ball if it wouldn't hurt so damn much.
All I have to say is, my legs better look damn hot for all the pain I put them through!

For the Love of Green

2010-01-28T08:20:00.000-08:00

W had to make a trip to Tremonton a few weeks ago. I was slightly bored (which really meant I was annoyed) with work, so I decided to go along for the ride. And besides, nobody wants to drive all that way alone.

As we headed through town we passed a whole fleet of John Deere tractors. W laughed as I squealed with delight at the beautiful green (w/ yellow accents) tractors. On the way back through town I had the same excitement.

(And if she wasn't driving so darn fast I would have taken a picture).

A few days later she came into my office with a present. She laughed and said I would never guess (which I didn't) and then handed over this little beauty...

I have him sitting right below my desktop monitor and everyday he brings a smile to my face.

Oh the dreams I have of owning a real John Deere......

Happy To You

2010-01-26T16:40:00.000-08:00

Today is my dad's birthday. I love birthdays - let's face it I love any reason to celebrate (and possibly take the day off work -- which I didn't do today,

but now I think about maybe I should have...)

Anyway, back to my amazing father.

Thanks for being so patient with me, especially when I call you frantic about the waterfall in the house, or the random car questions I always have, or any random question in general. Usually just talking to you makes things better. And thanks for loving mom so much

and being such a wonderful example to everyone.

I love you and miss you --- and I promise I will come visit soon

(remember I like to take those days off work!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

(this is one of my favorite photos of my dad, he loves nothing more than to just sit back holding one of his grandkids - and generally the grandkids feel the same way)

Enjoy the carrot cake!

Capes

2010-01-26T08:32:00.000-08:00

As I sat in church, waiting for things to get going, a girl walked in wearing a long, blue cape. I sort of stared, and then stared harder as she gathered the cape to sit down "properly" on the bench. And then my friend stated, Wow, that was a cape wasn't it?

And then I worried that more people would start wearing capes and what would the world come to? (Although I do make an exception for Halloween costumes and young children channeling their favorite super heroes - besides children look cute is almost anything.... adults on the other hand do not!)

At least she didn't have the hood of her cape on. Oh, and that it wasn't red or I for sure would have made a little red riding hood joke at some point (just being honest).

p.s. I would have found a picture of a cape, but then I realized - I didn't want to see it in the first place, so I assume nobody else does either.... so, you're welcome!

Rocky

2010-01-04T09:21:00.000-08:00

Made a quick trip to Boulder to see my Granny. It was really suppose to be a work trip, but I ended up not doing any work (can I still claim the miles though?! Isn't it the thought that counts?)

We did see this little guy....

He walked up the front pasture, under the fence, down the sidewalk, up the front stairs to the door.... then when we didn't answer the door, he walked back down the stairs, back under the fence, and back through the pasture.

Dad ran off to find "Old Faithful" (the gun) and I ran to get my camera. Granny didn't know why I wanted a picture, but I reminded her I don't see Racoon's in my front yard every day. And she told me they are nasty, mean buggers and she doesn't want anything to do with them. (FYI, my dad didn't shoot the raccoon, just fired off some rounds to scare it).

Dad and I drove down in the snow and drove home in the snow. Although it wasn't fun driving, the scenery was beautiful.

Hats

2010-01-03T09:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas came and it was a great day. I enjoyed food, candy, and family - all the things that I love in life. I spent the last two months knitting hats for everyone. Things were going smoothly in November when I started, until I found a pattern for a fabulous scarf. So I was side-tracked (for longer than I wanted) and ended up spending the week before Christmas frantically trying to finish the last FIVE hats. I got them all done.... and that's all that matters!

(Not sure why I picked hats that had multiple colors, which led to multiple weaving in of ends - one of my least favorite things to do).

Not to toot my own horn, but I did a damn fine job!

Gingerbread

2010-01-02T09:48:00.000-08:00

I got to sit on some babies a few days before Christmas. So I decided to make Gingerbread houses with them (from a kit of course, seriously making those houses from scratch would have been a nightmare).

Stinky Pete did her own and did a fantastic job. (And she thought the frosting tasted gross, but she did eat some of the candies).

Eugene probably ate half the frosting, and for every one candy he put on the house, he ate one. Finally I just made a pile of frosting for him to snack on.

The Bear (still trying this nickname thing out) just watched from the highchair.

A few days later The Pickle came by and made his own. He didn't eat much frosting, but enjoyed the candies.

Best Side

2009-12-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

We had another Christmas Party.

Apparently, everyone has figured out that they can say no to Stinky Pete and so they chose to show their best side for the photos.

So here you go....

What do you want?

2009-12-22T16:01:00.000-08:00

What's Christmas without a family party and Santa?

Santa was fantastic - as always.

We all had a good time laughing and playing.

And I love this photo because Grandpa is laughing hard, Santa is giving The Pickle bunny ears, and Eugene is "trying" not to smile.

Just another day of crazy!

Broken...

2009-12-21T09:05:00.000-08:00

Aaron has had a tragic couple of weeks. His truck was totaled a week ago and then this happened...

He broke his tibia right before a soccer game. Which led to him being in this cast for two days before having surgery to have a rod put in his leg.

For the next 2-3 months he will be on crutches and stuck at home. This is not going to be a fun winter.... (and yes he really does look that sad all day long)

Sparkly

2009-12-20T09:15:00.000-08:00

Everyone should go see the lights at Temple Square.

They are magnificent!

Reasons....

2009-12-19T17:16:00.000-08:00

Yes, I have been missing in blogger world for awhile. Sorry for that, but I do have plenty of reasons (not excuses).
First, it was Thanksgiving and my house was invaded with family. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, it just consumed lots of my time.
Second, I had many crises at work. Which included talk of getting laid-off, refusal of transfers, and no talk at all. I still don't have answers on the exact status of my job and that has led to many sleepless nights. (Which should be a reason to blog, but I don't think clearly during those times).
Third, a waterfall started in my house when a pipe decided to break. This was a days worth of drama. The pipe is fixed and we have water usage again, but the hole in my parents shower is still there. So we are back to sharing a bathroom, which some days makes me not so pleasant to be around.
Fourth, the garage door broke and held my car hostage for a day.
Fifth, Aaron.... that is all I have to say on that subject at this point in time. He will get his own special blog with pictures.

Anyway, those are all my reasons. Well, and the fact that I can't blog at work because my pictures don't load correctly and that annoys me, so by the time I get home I don't want to get on the computer. (And some days it takes forever for blogger to upload my pictures and then I have to situate them correctly and, and, and.....)

Olives...

2009-12-01T08:19:00.000-08:00

This has and always will be one of my favorite commercials...

And these two have and always will be "loved" for their
olive fingers....

Get a load of The Pickle in the background crying, hilarious!

Chaos

2009-11-28T10:42:00.000-08:00

Since everyone is in town for the Holidays, we decided have a little impromptu hang-out session. Kelly was the gracious host mostly because he had a little medical procedure and was suppose to be on bed rest.

Stinky Pete had free reign of the camera, so this is what you get...

Let it Snow...

2009-11-27T10:32:00.000-08:00

Last week Boogers was on the beach....

and now he is running through the snow.

(I think I would prefer the beach!)

Man, those are dang cute penguin hats!

We're coming for you

2009-11-27T10:09:00.000-08:00

I don't think it is ever a good sign to look out your front window and see this...

Hey....

2009-11-22T10:27:00.000-08:00

Saw this on my trip to Moab. Just had to take a picture and save it for some random day when I need blogging inspiration. I guess this is that day.

Planes, Trains, and.....

2009-11-17T18:43:00.000-08:00

Now that Utah is all fancy and has a commuter train, I figured I should at least ride it once (besides, I have a free pass). There was definitely some hesitation as the end is Ogden (fondly referred to as the butt-crack of Utah). But I sucked it up and dragged Barbara and the kids along for the ride.

Stinky Pete and Eugene making sure not to forget their luggage...

The crew waiting for take-off (which was not quick.... warning, these are not bullet trains).

And this is the end of the line (well, not exactly, this was a block or more down the road from the desolate parking lot that was the actual end of the line).

We expected to do a little shopping and wandering around the much advertised 25th Street. The advertising was correct only in its claim of being historic, but that's it. There were several hair shops, bars, and empty buildings. Finally two blocks down we found Gandolfo's, but were quickly reminded that we were still in Ogden and the sandwiches were not up to par.

Colors

2009-11-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

Since I do all this driving for work, I've been trying to remember to take some pictures to share with all of you. The problem is most of the time I just plain forget to take pictures, or I only remember as I'm speeding (at 103mph) down the road.

Last week I made a trip to Kanosh - who knew it was only five minutes off the freeway?! - then Cedar City - go SUU! - and on to St George - which I will always love and miss terribly (thanks Tara for providing me with much needed sanity... and some food!)

I of course didn't take one picture in any of those locations..... I blame my focus on work and need to "save those children" (but we all know it was my laziness and forgetfulness).

Anyway, on the drive back to Salt Lake the sun was setting and it was beautiful. And so I stopped and enjoyed it for a few minutes....

Eat...

2009-10-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

My three favorite reasons to love this holiday......

Well, and the buckets of candy of course!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Dreamland

2009-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

I rarely (if ever) remember my dreams. So when those rare occurrences happen I tend to think it's a sign of something (not sure what sign, since the dreams are crazy).
Anyway, a week ago I dreamt that I was in Vegas (baby!) and won $287,334 playing the slots - since that's all I dare (or know how) to play. After getting ID'd by the casino management and receiving my money I didn't do anything wild and crazy... I apparently bought a condo in some weird location because I dreamt that it would probably be hard to sell when I wanted to move (see, crazy!)
Anyway, when I told my mom about the dream she was sure I should head on down to Vegas (baby!) and win all that money.... like it was my destiny or something.

Which then leads me to the dream I had the other night. Not totally sure all the details of the dream, just that there was a lizard in it and for some reason I woke up and had a major panic attack because I thought the lizard was climbing on my alarm clock. I bolted out of bed and just stood there wondering what I should do next. Finally when reality returned to my brain (and I had checked my blankets and pillows for lizards) I laid back down and eventually went back to sleep.
What is the reason behind this dream?! Seriously?! I do not need anymore reasons to be awake at night. I am blaming Mike Rowe for this dream because I had just spent an hour watching him catch Alligator Turtles. Oh, and I blame my doctor for prescribing me drugs that I'm sure led to my crazy dreams...

(At least I didn't run into my mom's bed screaming about lizards....or possibly snakes -Chris?)

Treats (not many Tricks)

2009-10-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Halloween has never been my favorite holiday. I'm slowly getting into it as the years go by (I blame Tara and her obsession with it). It is definitely easier to enjoy it when the kids are a little older and actually know what is going on.

Since my mustache party was such a success last year (and it kind of evolved into somewhat of a Halloween party) I decided to do it again this year. The costumes were only on for the pictures and then we spent the night eating (food and candy) and playing games (Phase 10 champion right here!)

Here's a rundown of the costumes - grandpa was Sheriff Woody, grandma was Jesse, Chuck was a baby giraffe, Stinky Pete was Spiderella, I was a Roller Derby Chick (....Sorry you didn't get to see all the awesomeness of my costume - the roller skates were the best part...), Eugene was Buzz (no surprise there), The Pickle was a big giraffe, Bryn was a penguin, Kelly was a scary skeleton/pirate dude, and Aaron was a doctor.

More eating.....

Mediocrity

2009-10-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

Aaron and I saw this movie last weekend and it was AWESOME! I love, love, loved it! And recommend it to everyone. There is always a need for a good kick ass girl movie, and this is it.

The Duke

2009-10-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

While in Moab, I was able to spend some quality time with none other than John Wayne. He was such a gentleman and allowed me to get as many pictures as I wanted.

And how sexy is this picture? He definitely made women swoon....

Red Rock

2009-10-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Wendy had to make a trip to Moab last week for work. She hasn't been trained in Forensic Interviewing, so I got to tag-a-long. We were able to stay at the Red Cliffs Lodge and enjoyed the luxurious life for a night.

The scenery was as beautiful as always, and the weather was spectacular. We did a little sight-seeing the first day and shopping.... got myself a few rings and bracelets. Oh, and we ate some fabulous food.

This is the view from my patio.

This is my king sized bed, which I made sure to enjoy every square inch (as I rolled around all night long).

Another view from the back patio.

This is the drive back to town.

And then we drove the other way out of town to see this little gem. We didn't take the tour and the gift shops were really kind of sad, but the crazy metal work things were really cool.

Like this Jeep...

And this golfer dude.....

Oh, and this totally cool chair out of rock. If it didn't weigh a billion pounds I would want one for my front porch.

Commercial Break

2009-10-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the break in blogging. I have been busy.... with work (saving those children), knitting (Christmas is coming), and now recovering - very slowly - from a cold (which is not strep throat or the swine flu).

Will return in a few days with updates....

But just to show you how fun life has been, here's a little story.

As I mentioned before, the yelling car has not been my friend. I made threats to not drive it anymore, but kept being reassured that the "bugs" had been fixed. Should have remembered that this is the government, things don't get fixed here.

Anyway, I made a little drive to Price last week and the car yelled numerous times as expected. I just yelled back and said some horrible words. (Funny thing about it was that Wendy was with me and hadn't had the privilege of driving the hell car before. Every time it yelled she jumped and then yelled. Fun times!)

A week later I was called into a meeting with my supervisor. Apparently, while driving the canyon to Price the hell car recorded me going 103mph in a 65mph zone. Yes, 103mph!

I was in such a state of shock that I just started laughing uncontrollably. Then proceeded to remind my supervisor all the problems with the car, where I was at, and um, there was no way I was going 103mph. This is a Ford Focus..... I think it would explode if I got above 80mph. Seriously, pieces would literally start falling off at that speed. (Also, I've never gone a 103mph in any car, let alone a work car where I'm being monitored EVERY SINGLE mile).

Needless to say, I will never be driving that car again. Oh, and apparently there are "sanctions" that may come due to my excessive speeding.

Anyway, I'm still pissed off and have spent a lot of time yelling about the entire situation. One day I may think back and laugh, but for now I will be angry and hate the hell car and motorpool. (And yes, I like to hold grudges!)