RAMBLING GIRL TALES

Rambler to the End

2010-01-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a whirlwind of life and work and holidays and all the fun stuff that happens along the way! In the last while, my life has changed drastically. But it's great.

After getting home from Colorado, I was laid off and then offered a position increasing my work load and responsibilities. I am very, very blessed to be able to stay where I work and in the end the new job is OK... just super BUSY! I also moved... grumble. I sure don't like moving... at all. I'm now living on campus at work in a small 400 square foot apartment that we lovingly call "The Hallway". It's nice and new, but again, it's 400 square feet. It's a challenge but more it's a huge blessing as it is super affordable and helping us save for a house.

Us. I'm totally crazy about my J. He is always showing me through his example how fantastic he is and that I'm making the right choice. When to get married and how has been complicated... and pretty frustrating too. I'm talking tearful frustration. Then I got to thinking. I realized I'm focused too much on the wedding and not on the marriage. J is a gift and I think being married to him is a heavenly gift. Im super excited for the marriage part of this. So, we are doing a quick, fun, spontaneous, beautiful, "us" type wedding in Honolulu next week. And then we will be on to the more important part of growing a beautiful wedding and being sealed in a year. Yahoo!

So, I guess this logically completes this blog's life. Although I want to make it perfectly clear that I'm still a rambler and always will be one in my heart... just now I'm rambling with J. It's time to move on to the next phase of our lives. That can be found at: http://www.eightyearsinthemaking.blogspot.com/

?Question?... Bling...YES!

2009-11-19T14:25:00.000-08:00

It's not a secret that I don't do surprises well. Never have. As a matter of fact, my lil sis told J the other day that it would be almost impossible to surprise me because I'm "evil"... harsh. I think she is either referring to the many days of December gone by's that I "forced" her to help me unwrap and then rewrap all the presents under the tree or perhaps how I taught her to steal the car keys and look in the trunk to find the hidden presents. Maybe she is referring to the times I had her stand lookout as I snuck into my mom's wallet to read receipts and figure out our future hauls. Certainly she couldn't be referring to my master therapist skills that will after hours of questioning will wear anyone down who holds a secret, especially a big one like this:

With the bling acquired, I knew the proposal was coming, just didn't know how. J promised to surprise me, which only whetted my appetite and sent me on a frenzy to find out exactly what was going to happen. Bless my dear friends and coworkers hearts... such stalwarts they were! I'll admit, I'm still surprised everyone stayed on J's team and wouldn't come over to my team by spilling the beans. After a rookie mistake (sorry RM, I just figured it out) I knew the place of the proposal. J threw his hands in the air and said, "fine, I give up, you win, let's just go to dinner and I'll give it to you." Victory... I thought.

J is a romantic at heart. He is also quite talented in so many ways. He's the kind of guy that everyone loves. Before dinner we took a romantic walk around the park that was so confirming to me. Walking on that path, being with J, talking about a future together, I knew it was a go and the absolute right thing to do. I didn't know he was stalling.
When we finally got to the restaurant, we were walked to a beautiful table with roses and an amazing painting set on it. Weeks earlier I had told J about my favorite painter, http://www.kershinik.comKershisnik and shown him my favorite painting by him. (J is actually quite the artist himself. I'm quite proud of the fact that he painted a few murals and worked many hours overtime to help pay for my ring. I love his work ethic.) J had done a study of that painting and painted us in the corner. I'm holding my ring and kissing J. Also, he painted in the temple on the top of the hill. I just think it's amazing and incredibly thoughtful.

My favorite surprise though was when the live musician started playing our song, "Then", by Brad Paisley. When he started strumming it, J asked me if I'd like to dance. I shook my head because I was too scared and shaking, luckily, he was too. In the part of the song that the guy gets on one knee to ask the girl, J pulled out my ring and asked me to marry him. That was the easiest "Yes!" I've ever said.

The guitarist was fantastic. He had never heard the song before and the music J ordered online didn't come in time so he sat down and learned it by ear on his own. His wife told us the night before he sat and sang it to her all night long. So sweet!

Without getting too personal, Y'know I've waited many a moon to find J. Perspective is everything, the rest of it was too hard, too forced, but with J it is the most natural/comfortable life transition. Maybe 8 years ago, while we were in the same singles ward, we should have hooked up... but there was a lot of life to be lived in those last 8 years. And a lot of growing up to be done. Now, we have a ridiculously fabulous life ahead and I'm excited as all heck for it.

I've always wanted a sapphire to be somehow incorporated into my ring. I love it! I think it's beautiful and perfect for me.

Denver Impulse Theatre Laughs

2009-11-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

The perfect end to a fantastic week was at the Impulse Theatre in Denver.
It's located in the basement of a downtown bar that serves at the theatre. Hence, each child had to come with a parent. My nieces "Boy Who's A Friend Boyfriend", W, didn't have parental figures with him... so, meet our boy. He was a good sport.

J loves Improv and had a hoot of a good time.

During intermission, the kids and I got jiggy with it. They make me giggle.

Below posing with the ape man down

Dinner Family Style

2009-11-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

Dinner at Maggiano's before Wicked. YUM!

Wicked!

2009-11-05T08:18:00.001-08:00

Wow and amazing and wonderful and absolutely worth seeing! What a night!!!!
It was an amazing night thanks to my Denver family.

Denver = One Big Speed Trap

2009-11-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

This image was taken while sitting in my car in a long line of other "speeders" that were caught in the trap, waiting for our tickets. Turns out Denver Police needed to pay their bills that day... and I got caught in their budget crunch. Lucky me! $125 was definitely not worth getting off the freeway just to drive by Coors Field. Nor was it very calming on my chill out scale. As a matter of fact, J was worried that the officer was going to pull me out of the car when I started arguing with him and insisted he tell me immediately that he tell me how to get out of Denver... yeah, not one of my more brilliant moments... this must be what they were talking about when they said a road trip is very eye opening.

Estes Park, Colorado

2009-11-05T07:29:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite spots in Colorado is Estes Park right at the entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Forest. It's beautiful. I really wanted J to see it and I really really wanted to do some shopping. My older bro, who is a fantastic host by the way, came too. Loved the scenery, loved the shopping, loved the day.

Turns out my J is a bit of a goof. Like a really big goof actually! And T did nothing but egg him on. How is it that the ONLY shirt in the whole town that J wanted was a "poopy orange" color that said, "I went camping and burned my weiner." Yes, I gave in and bought it... I know.

Colorado Road Trip

2009-11-05T07:22:00.000-08:00

With October flown by, we decided to take some time off in early November. Everyone's heard that if you want to really get to know someone and see how that person really is, you should take a vacation together. We chose a week in Denver.

October Fly Through

2009-11-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's gone and I don't remember most of it: Sweet, fleeting, October... Since joining with my current employers, I don't really have much time to enjoy October with Scarecrow Festival being the major sucker of my time. This year was the same. It's a fun festival, with huge crowds. I'm always amazed to see our little organization pull it off! When you look out over the swarms of happy, festival goers and realize it's just us putting the whole thing on... and then it ends and your life becomes your own again. Scarecrow Festival 2009.

My niece was a chucky doll dancer this year in Odyessy Dance Theatre's Thriller production at Kingsbury Hall. It's a show you don't want to miss. Great dancers and spooky dances. Loved it.

While you are sitting waiting for the production to begin, the ghouls come out to spook you in the audience. Some of them are really good little ghouls that I wouldn't want to encounter! They would just come sneering right up in your face and spook you.

Conquering Your Mountains

2009-09-17T20:00:00.001-07:00

Just got home from a parent retreat therapy campout with some clients. Our theme was Conquering Your Mountains, and I learned a lot about myself and some of the mountains I have left to conquer. I always walk away with special pieces of understanding about myself when we do therapy.
At the end of our retreat, we bussed up to Snowbird to take the tram to the top of the mountain.

It was actually the first time for many of us to make it to the top of the mountain. And we were awestruck from the moment we reached the top.

I can't obviously share pictures of clients or families I work with, but I thought I'd take this chance to intro some of my favorite fellow female therapists. We are all working on our own mountains these days...

Tell me it's not amazing to sit in the clouds with views of such vistas. It was so dang inspiring. We hiked down a bit, found a rock to write the issue we personally were going to work on conquering, and then hiked it back to the top of the mountain. Personally, I was happiest to end the hike back up the mountain and get back on the tram... Perhaps that's why it's part of my mountain.

Mississippi Gourd turned Drum Project

2009-09-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

I've been working with some of my boys on a project that I'd wanted to do for years. In our Recreation Therapy Group, we had Mississippi Gourds shipped to us all covered in beautiful stinky Mississippi mud. After scrubbing them down, which isn't the funnest task with 8 twelve year old hyperactive and not-wanting-to-take-turns boys, they were all prepared. We processed a lot how important it is to do our best in the beginning to prepare for the best outcomes in life.

The gourds seemed really happy chillin with each other waiting for us to return the next week to continue to the next step.

The biggest mistake we made was sitting in a confined, non-ventillated room, when we cut open the gourds. As adults we never considered the gourds would be full of dried up gourd dust that was a bit moldy that immediately found it's way into all of our lungs... dang, we coughed for days!

We cleaned them up, cut off the other top, and began the design process. We all had to choose Native American symbols that represented and applied to something we were trying to become. After burning in the symbols, we cut up the grody rawhide, and laced it onto the top of the drum. And BOOYAH, we had drums!

HOOTIE!!! Side Stage with Darrius Rucker

2009-09-04T16:36:00.000-07:00

It may seem like from the singularity of the posts that all that happens around here anymore are concerts, but really, life is full.

Last nights concert with Darrius Rucker had a suprising spin. A super fantastic connection got us backstage to meet and greet with Mr. Hootie himself (AKA Darrius Rucker) which led to an invite to chill side stage a few feet from the band.

Unfortunately, I only had my phone to snap photos on and I had to crop the connection out of the shot, but here are pix of the night.

It was amazing to listen to Hootie sing like a king. Talk about serious talent!!!

A Night of Honkey Tonk Badonkadonk with Trace Adkins and Toby Keith

2009-08-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

All summer J's been looking forward to this night and it did not disappoint. Trace and Toby were the main influences that brought J over to the right side of the tracks of country music. Thank heavens for Toby and Trace.

J is proudly showing off our tix that he painted a baseball mural to get.

Absolutely Trace put on a show worth seeing. He's a performer and has the voice to make any lady melt... He was the highlight of the night.

Below Toby delivering a great concert.

As with all Toby concerts, my favorite moments are always his encore, which is super patriotic and brings tears everytime... man, I'm happy as an American girl, that's for sure.

Stuck in parking lot traffic for an hour deserves a grand finale just like this Brad Paisley moment...

THEN.

One Lovely Night Out

2009-08-13T20:53:00.000-07:00

I love all my clients, I really do. There are times though that some can be a bit more challenging than others. Recently one of my more "super special challenging" boys' folks gave me a dinner gift card to Silver Fork Lodge at his graduation from the program. We took advantage of their great kindness and headed up the canyon for dinner this week. To say it was beautiful would be minimizing how beautiful it really was. And the food was just as great as the view. Nothing like a relaxing night out, especially when the bill is being footed by others.

After dinner I got to watch this scout pull out all his tricks and demonstrate a "one match light"... it didn't happen with just one match but in the end the scout gave us fire and the evening was topped off perfectly.

Havesting Begins

2009-08-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

Our merry first tomato posing for first and last picture.

Canning Bliss

2009-08-12T12:32:00.001-07:00

Saturday was an afternoon of canning bliss with my sis and lil E. What started out as a plan to make pickles turned into relish when we realized the cucumbers were too "squishy" to be pickles. Not sure what to do with relish, but the cans sure are pretty.

Ode to cute farmers at the Farmers Market who were so diligent in cultivating their apricots, because once they became jam... they sure are tasty! I think I'm now a canning addict... think of all the glorious things left to can this season... What a good Mormon Woman Day!

Another Happy Moment First

2009-08-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Lil S tutoring J on the in's and out's of 4 wheeling...

We had a stupendous time at the Family Reunion!

Raging Family Water Fun

2009-08-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Took my whole lovely clan to my work party on Saturday @ Raging Waters and we had a blast! Perfect start to a crazy good family reunion and great solution to beating the heat!

Pioneer Children Sing as They Walked (to church)

2009-08-07T19:51:00.000-07:00

In honor of Pioneer Day, we had an primary neighborhood parade. Reminded me soo much of the annual primary parade in Albuquerque as a child when we would deck our bikes out and parade around the church parking lot or local park. This years parade was very similar. I even rode in it, with my beautiful baby blue cruiser.

The pace car (jeep) decked out with streamers.

Tractor Love

2009-08-07T19:40:00.000-07:00

After my "sexy tractor" post about Kenny Chesney, Scully was kind enough to forward me this pic from a bit back. This is of an eve out with my favorite gals when we randomly encountered this misplaced tractor in the middle of the shopping center parking lot. I made us pull over and let me hop on for a picture... tractor love goes way back...

"When the Sun Goes Down, We'll Be Groovin"

2009-07-24T17:29:00.001-07:00

"We Went Out Last Night" Have I mentioned my deep love for Kenny Chesney?! I LOVE HIM!!! From the first time I saw him live, I knew it was love at first sight!

His show is a must not miss concert; in fact, if I were president of the United States, I'd enforce that all Americans were mandated to attend yearly... imagine the happiness that would come...of course, if I were president, I'd have had better seats...
After my last Kenny show, a dear friend from the past facebook'd me to say she thought she'd seen me but wasn't sure and hadn't ventured up to chat with me. It was me, and from the early announcement that he was coming, I've been eagerly waiting to see my Barbster and meet her cutest hubby. Luck would have it we ran right into her and the perfect pattern of the night was set. So good to see you girl!

How could one not love Carrie?! Especially when she serves so well as a buffer between me and the fantastically good looking cowboy sitting next to her?

As you can see, we were all melting in the 100+ degree sun, making a water fight with our precious $4.50/bottle waters truly a godsend. Simple pleasures.

This was my first time to the Rio Tinto Stadium... It's huge!

But seriously, who cares how huge it is when the man himself is serenading me? Ode to how I think his tractors sexy!

And speaking of sexy tractors, when Kenny gets going and the music moves you, it's as though you're just groovin with a few thousand of your closest friends on a warm (HOT) summer's eve...

I LOVE KENNY CHESNEY!!!

Lemonade Stand Glory

2009-07-24T17:01:00.001-07:00

After having a conversation with one of my brothers a couple years back and hearing his reasoning for stopping at every lemonade stand he drove past, I've made a conscious effort to show my support to the little peeps myself. Today's lemonade stand made me giggle though... the picture is just off my phone, not the best quality... but if you look REALLY closely you will see:

1 cup for .75 cents

2 cups for $1.00

Not to rain on anyones parade, but these youngin's might benefit from some summer school profit margin business school classes...

Happy Moments This Week

2009-07-19T19:24:00.000-07:00

So many happy moments this week, but here are a few of my favorites:

View from the hills. I love the Jordan River Temple. Everyday, driving to and from work, I grin when I pass the temple. It's habitual for me to zoom by and glance over my shoulder to see my temple. It's always had a special spot in my heart. This week I took some time up on a hill overlooking the valley and the beautiful JR Temple. Those moments, when the world stops, you are surrounded by beauty and love, yeah, those moments are absolutely one of my happy moments.

I spent some time this weekend at my folks house relaxing. Saturday morning I woke up and headed outside to find my pa out in his yard pulling weeds. Imagine my surprise when I looked up and saw a mamma pygmi goat, two of her little ones, and a very confused (thinks he is a member of the goat family) rooster buddying up to my dad. These moments make my dad's days! He always pretends to be Mr. Rancher dude... we all know the truth. But living in a neigborhood where the neighbors goat runs free is pretty cool.

ABSOLUTE FAVORITE MOMENT THIS WEEK:

I walked into my friends office at work to show off my pedicure. We were oohing and aahing when a boy (client) laughed and said we hadn't seen anything yet. He slipped off his shoes and showed us his own pedicure. Through my many bouts of laughter, he was able to explain his sister had gotten hold of his toes over the weekend... who are we kidding, his toes topped ours! Three cheers for men who are willing to get a pedicure, and show it!

I Spy with My Little Eye:

2009-07-16T13:49:00.001-07:00

"These are a few of my favorite things."

First this Year

2009-07-12T19:36:00.001-07:00

I get that following the slow progress of tomato plants this summer does not make for exciting blog reading... still, this is getting pretty exciting for me on this end of the story. How cute is this little guy!

Fire Pit Christening

2009-07-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

After a tasty 4th of July BBQ Dinner, and before fireworks, we rallied together to roast marshmallows and make smores on my dad's new fire pit. Lil S, our resident boy scout smarty pants, painstakingly designed and built a happy pile of wood ready to be set ablaze with all the youngin's eagerly looking on... then dad suprised us with his own form of how to set a fire... it involves flamable liquid... Woosh!

Lil S was quick to inform grandpa that this is how boy scouts lose their eyebrows...

Never the less and not withstanding, the smores were tasty and we laughed together.

Independence Day in PC

2009-07-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Spent the day in PC enjoying town festivities and the parade.Bedazzled Biker. Loved it!

Parade Spectator Beauties

SHOE TREE (never knew it existed... next time I'm here, I'm contributing)

Festive 4th Picnicing Decorations. Auntie P is a fantastic host.

Lil K as a mime on the plaza... his idea. Haven't laughed that hard in a long time!

Along our walking path we came across a mural Auntie P painted under a bridge to honor miners.

Treasure Untold

2009-07-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

Question:

Imagine you serendipitiously happened upon a treasure one day that was more than you can now imagine but you knew it didn't really belong to you. You had a choice, you could enjoy it in the moment and do all the fun things you wanted to do today, but it wouldn't last... OR you could turn it back to be claimed and with trust and faith hope it will return to you and make your future fantastic, WHAT WOULD YOU DO?!

The answer seems so obvious to me, if it doesn't belong to you you need to return it. But obvious answer is just so painfully tough...

Rain Water Magic

2009-06-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to one of the wettest Junes I remember, my little guys have been growing like crazy. One month since they came home and they are doing great. I guess thats what happens when you're watered by Heaven...

Sidewalk Chalk Festival

2009-06-22T15:05:00.001-07:00

I had heard about this fundraiser, but never attended. I'm so glad I finally took the opportunity to go. The cause is the Foster Care programs of Utah, which is a fantastically worthy cause. The art was really impressive, of course that's coming from me... I'm not the biggest artist in the world. It was a rainy day, but there was a great crowd that came out to support such an important cause.

My personal fav: The Little Snorkeler

The next day at father's day dinner, little Gboy showed up next to me with a bucket of chalk in his hand and announced he and I were going to make our own sidewalk chalk. How could I resist this face?

Timbersports Festival aka LUMBERJACKS

2009-06-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah baby, oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah!

A Day of Lumberjack Competition

(translation: muscular men in plaid chopping wood)

I actually have more pictures on my other camera, that I'll try to remember to post. But, I must encourage all who havent been to try it out next year. It's a great competition that was taped to show on ESPN in November. I had my favorite sports. The guy sitting right above is interesting. I just sat down and lucked out to have sat down next to one of the STIHL collegiate competitors. Im actually not sure what to call him. I tried to be sly when I took his pic, but as you can see, he was a bit hairy, very nice, and pretty knowledgeable.

It was amazing to watch the strength and speed of the lumberjacks. To be honest, I was in awe and a bit giddy.

Dance Diva's

2009-06-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

They dance and prance. Seriously princesses to me, but they are actually queens to the dancing world. They have been winning trophies across the state.
But~ my most favorite moment that night was seeing my little O (a spectator) dressed as a queen for her night of cheering from the audience. So sweet!

Not Hooking Up with Kelly Clarkson (and the rain)

2009-06-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are in Utah, and Yes, it's raining and 58 degrees outside. But that doesn't mean one cant get jiggy at a Kelly Clarkson show. Getting wet makes it even better!

Shiver me timbers!...

No Lie. The show really began right when Kelly came out on stage and a double rainbow suddenly appeared. It was so pretty cool.

Shout out dedication to "You".

Family Backyard Play

2009-06-07T21:37:00.000-07:00

After laying the sod and letting it settle and soak in for a week, we had a chance to play together on it this weekend. Tons of progress being made on the backyard! I think it looks great.

Some youngin's chillin in the sand

Target practice with a Red Ryder and my bros

(There is so much going on this summer, I feel like I can't keep up with blogging the days...)

"Party, Party, Party... Party"

2009-05-31T18:48:00.000-07:00

With all the clan in town, we headed to a local "fun land" and for a mere didly price, we all "party, party, partied." I landed the 2-4 year old team for our round of mini-golf. Fun, but a bit scattered. It really is a hoot to watch tots take on a putt putt golf course. Post-putt putt we took on the bumper cars, and the 4D movies, ending the big party outing with some good old-fashioned arcade ticket winning fun.

Above: Pic of GBoy being creative with the concept of a hole in one.

Above: EGirl working the glow in the dark hole.

Above: BBoy and CBoy showing their excitement over the black light golfing game about to happen.

Above: EGirl figuring out that she too can putt.

Team Youngin's.

Although we all aren't as happy looking as we really were.

Summer of the Heirloom Tomatoes

2009-05-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

With great anticipation, I'd like to introduce you to my new little ones. As y'all know, I love my primary youngin's. One of them, with his older brother, has a little side business of growing and supplying the neighborhood with heirloom tomato seedlings. I adopted these 7 different varieties a week ago and brought them home to their new abode. A week later and they have already doubled in size... so exciting. Scully mocks me because she found me sitting on the patio talking story with them, but I really do think they like it. They love the attention, seeing as they are adopted and all. Attachment issues need to be dealt with at such a young age. Although it's quite a lot of work raising Sextuplets (+1) (what is 7 anyways??? I guess I could google it), I am about ready to increase my brood and bring on a new baby basil plant. Actually, I'm thinking a teen aged basil will be a better fit for our family, but I'm keeping it open.

More to come!

Day with the Boys

2009-05-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

MAY DAY CELEBRATION @ Wheeler Farm

The boys are finally old enough to come to play with me... Yahoo! Thanks to Scully, we heard about the May Day Festival and stopped by on our way to the Bees Baseball Game.

A festival on a farm is perfect for little boys who love getting dirty, but who would have known we would have also run into Star Wars characters?! To quote little C, "It's the best part of our whole day!"

Then on to the Bees game. Nothing says perfect May evening like a pretzel and coke sitting watching men in tight pants run around diamonds... Little C and Little G did fantastic! We did leave early, halfway because the Bees were up 10-0 and mostly because Little G stepped in the hotdog relish tray and had it all over himself... turns out that when you're three and super tired, hot dog relish covered toes is a breaking point. Go Bees!

My New Ride

2009-05-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

After many moons of researching and searching for the best buy and happiest Electra Cruiser, I'm ecstactic to announce the newest member of my "favorites" family. May I please introduce you to My Blue Hawaii Cruiser... She's a beaut!

Here she is coming home for the first time in her carrier. She loves car rides.

And here she is resting after a cruise along the Jordan Parkway. She loves to ring her bell and when she goes through puddles, her tires leave behind hibiscus flower tracks... so cute!

Not sure who I am???

2009-05-09T21:00:00.001-07:00

After eating a "bucket of trash" at Bubba Gumps, we happened upon this store front at Ala Moana. Yes indeedy, "I LORI".

Tulip Festival 2009

2009-05-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I am like giddy in my toes that we are in festival season! Yahoo~!

My Enchanted April

2009-05-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

April 2009 was certainly not a slow month. A lot happened that was both good and bad. But for 10 days, I slipped away from life to bask in my enchanted April.

Scully spotted me her copy of Elizabeth von Armin's, "The Enchanted April" prior to boarding the plane. I was drawn in immediately and recommend it for all.

I have really fond memories of this trip "home" to Oahu. My intention was set to just get calm and try to relax. I skipped the social visiting and opted for beach time. Blessed beach time.

I should note my Easter morning. I woke up at 5a and headed 15 min east to Blowhole to watch the sunrise. Not only did the sunrise, I was also treated to some whale spotting's less than 100 yds off shore. It was really amazing. I then drove 5 min to Sandy's beach and visited Hope Chapel's Easter Sunrise Service. Again, the whale were curious and must have heard the Good Word as they again swam back and forth in front of us.

I have a lot of pics to share of my enchanted April trip. I took my cameras to get pics for a digital photo frame to go in my office. Here are a few samples:

One Bright Shiny Day of Joy

2009-04-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those days where you were so totally happy? Yeah, me too.

Holi Festival of Colors 2009

2009-03-29T15:12:00.000-07:00

Spring is here! Bring on the colors. I took two nieces to the Festival of Colors this year. I can't tell you how fun it is to watch youngin's catch the spark of fun...

And of course there were llamas abounding, share the love.

The Metal Roll

2009-03-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my dad wow'd the youngin's with internet math. These three were especially amazed and spent the next hour trying to figure out how the lady on the computer screen could read their minds whenever they chose a number, did some adding and subtracting and then picked a word according to their answer. After I'd forgotten they were still in there completely baffled, my nephew came in and asked if he could have some of the metal roll stuff (aluminum foil) from grandpa. He'd come up with a plan to make a metal hat to block the computer wizards ability to read his mind. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time!!!

One Beating Heart

2009-03-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, my dad was admitted to the hospital after a heart attack. We are grateful that he got to the hospital and stabilized. He will be heading back this next week for another bypass surgery.

After being NPO (nothing by mouth) for many hours for his angiogram, his first meal was fairly comical to me. Y'see, he was eating processed "meat loaf" and watching President Obama's address to the nation. Anyone who knows my pa will know that those two things by themselves would give him a heart attack. What an ironic moment.

(P.S.) he might be bugged that I'm posting this picture, so don't tell on me...

mit Arbeit überlastet sein

2009-03-23T21:07:00.000-07:00

:: to be overwhelmed with work ::

I may have bit off more than I can chew, or perhaps I'm just feeling overwhelmed these days. It's kind of a strange juxtaposition thing for me- I don't want to wait and let life pass me by but I also want to make a point to enjoy the moments. Alas and alak, it's not too bad, but this is the reason I haven't been blogging about the goings on in my world.

This last weekend I went to a primary talent show in my new ward. I have never laughed so hard at a church sponsored event. The highlight of the night was my bishop dancing around in the audience facilitating his own "gorilla cam", a little boy "running fast", and a father kissing his baby gone bad (that's all I can share about that...). I seriously am loving my ward.

The Draper Temple dedication was pretty amazing too.

Spring has sprung, and I can't beleive it's almost April! Y'know, the truth is the days are going to go by super fast anyways, so I might as well make sure I get a lot done and make the most of each moment, even if it means having moments of feeling "Mit Arbeit Uberlastet Sein".

Aint it Symbolic?

2009-03-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

I was walking through a shopping plaza today when I spotted my first spring flowers. It seemed like an important thing to document, being as I soo love Spring and all. These dainty little guys were pushing so hard through the dull gray ground and if you look closely, you'll see the surrounding environment of cigarette butts, ABC gum, trash, and rocks... not too friendly for such beauty. I love Spring and all it symbolizes. It's such a happy time when all the dirty gray turns colors.

My Economic Stimulus Plan

2009-03-06T22:11:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned how yet again I so love my roommate?! So many reasons to be grateful for her strengths, but tonight I'd like to focus on her similar love of retail therapy. Ever have one of those days when you walk into Dillards to get some Clinique lotion and discover the joys of a sale?

President Obama: We'd like you to assure you we are doing our part to stimulate the economy.

Thank you to the Clinique Bonus Gift and the Fossil 70% off. (That's quite a deal when the bag is the same price as rent for the month.)

3 cheers for Friday evening retail therapy!

Ticket to Paradise

2009-03-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

It's been a great week: busy, exhausting, and fantastic. It only seems natural to top the week off by heading west- far west. I bought my ticket to paradise. April 10th can't come soon enough...

Fingers crossed.

2009-03-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is kinda one of those "big days" at work for me... not to be overly dramatic, but my path might change dramatically around 2pm tomorrow. Either way, it's the beginning of a great story. Keep your fingers crossed, mine will be.

Recycling Mama

2009-03-01T20:17:00.000-08:00

My Happy Civic Duty
This is a quick post to the world about the joys and personal satisfaction that is inherent in recycling. I just walked the green (recycling) trash can to the curb to sit sturdily by our black (other garbage) trashcan for morning pickup. How cool is it that the green can is so full this week that I had to sneak across the street and put our "overflow recycling" in an unsuspecting neighbors green can?! And the black garbage can is only 1/4 full.

Just so you know, Scully and I are actually not creating that much trash each week to fill the green can, but I am bringing home big garbage bags full of shredded office paper to recycle... to say the least, I've caught the bug.

It is true though that we probably are now recycling 2/3 of what we used to throw out each week! That's a lot of waste that doesn't end up in a landfill. Surely all this recycling makes up for my sacred 20 minute hot showers that aren't going away any time soon...

Happy Chinese New Year! Year of the Ox

2009-01-27T13:30:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting anxiously for this day to come for years... ever since I went with some great friends in Hawaii to the celebration in China Town to celebrate the Year of the Monkey... patiently I've waited for this my year.

Happy Chinese New Year to All!

Being in a fairly non-Asian community, there really weren't a ton of options for celebrations this weekend. Searching for a necklace with the symbol of the ox on it, I happened upon a sweet store owner who also was a feng shui master. I'm not really sure how it lead up to this, but the next thing I knew, he was reading a paper full of kanji and warning me about the upcoming year. News Flash: It turns out that when the symbol you were born under comes back up, it's not necessarily a "lucky" thing. I was warned in adorable broken English to drive with 300% caution, be wary, and put rose quartz rocks by my pillow. I was also told not to eat fish and to wear yellow pants. I'll be honest, walking out of the Asian gifts store I felt quite dampened.

Do not worry though. I did research and talked to my Asian friends. So Monday morning, I wore brown tights (closest I could get to yellow without looking like a banana) and a red shirt (told by Hamano that it is the best color to wear that day). I also wore my Ox pendant and took the opportunity to shout, "Happy Chinese New Year" to everyone I passed. Hamano also recommended blowing something up. Allegedly the bad spirits are chased away quite well by loud explosive noises. But it's not easy to find fireworks around here and a trip across the border to Wyoming was out of the picture.

I did manage to get in an excellent Chinese dinner complete with a perfect fortune cookie fortune:

You will come into great fortune.

Memory: Reminded me about the time way back when I was working for a jewelry broker before my mission. One of the people he dealt with was in San Francisco and managed a fortune cookie bakery for his family on the side. One day on the phone he said, "y'know Lori, I like you. I want to send you some cookies. How many do you want? 1 or 2?" I jokingly said, "Sure, how about 3?!" The next day Fed-Ex overnighted 3 thousand fortune cookies to my front door. We had fortune cookies coming out of the yahoo. I remember giving bags of them to everyone who came by as a parting gift. Taught me to ask more questions...

"Red Rock"ing it with the Lady UTES

2009-01-23T22:20:00.000-08:00

This was our second annual Utah Gymnastics Meet Girls Night Out tonight. Our crew was bigger and thus better this year.

This time our crew was 100% entertained by not only the twirling gymnasts but also the YMCA crowd dance. Actually, the YMCA crowd dance was my favorite part. Not that the meet wasn't amazing to watch- it was crazy fun. But not as great as seeing my kin get jiggy in the middle of the Huntsman Center.

Above: Me enjoying the dance

Below: Me joining the dance

The Lady Utes Dominated.

A Skirt on Casual Friday?!

2009-01-23T11:22:00.001-08:00

Casual Friday is my cherished jean day that I look forward to all week. It's like the best part of the week!

I've thought and thought about this, and it's true, there really is only one reason I would ever be willing to wear a skirt on a Friday: Temple Trip.

Only for the temple.

The Draper Temple Open House is in full swing and today was my day. I've watched it raise up on the south mountain and was so excited for my first time inside. Oh how I love to see the temple! It was beaut-ti-ful!!!

"Come Prepared to Fail"

2009-01-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

"Come prepared to fail." Certainly not the most encouraging words I'd usually expect to hear from a teacher, but turns out, they've actually been pretty positive after all. I started a pottery class last week. It's always been on my "must-do" list. But it's not a "do it once and be done with it" type of thing for me, I really desire to be efficient at throwing pottery. During my first class, my expectations of myself were darn high. So high it became paralyzing. It's not easy to get past the centering on the wheel stage and begin pulling when I'm frozen in the "it's gotta be perfect or life is horrible" mind thought... the result of that thinking: I sat for quite a few minutes at the wheel, with a perfectly centered mound of clay, that span beautifully, but was no work of art. It was certainly easier to acquiesce in the moment than to risk failure.

Then pottery teacher (as I call him) insisted I move to the next step. He looked me straight on and said, "You have to come prepared to fail if you're ever going to get a piece you like. You will have to ruin many pieces before you will create a masterpiece." There really are very few times in my life someone has encouraged me by telling me to fail. Such paradox. So yeah, I failed miserably my first night. My perfectly centered mound of clay pulled hesitantly the first pull, and crashed and burned the second pull. So then I tried again.

Going into class tonight, I reasoned with myself, as I often do, and convinced myself that I was prepared to fail and because of that preparation, I could try again and again. It would be a perfect analogy if I ended this story sharing how I threw a beautifully crafted pot. Truth is, my bowl is quite awkward looking. But she's mine. And I'm choosing to end this story by acknowledging that sometimes failing actually is succeeding.

"The Best Therapy is a Margarita"

2009-01-09T17:40:00.000-08:00

Today I had a client inform me that the best type of therapy is a margarita. Who knew?! So, I'm outta here, it's a margaritaville night!

What a week... actually let me add another three dots... just to re-emphasize what a week it's been! Is it just me, or does life seem to get more complicated the older you get??? Is this not a night to shake your fist at the universe and yell at the top of your lungs, with full gusto, "REALLY WORLD, REALLY?!"

I'll share a secret with you: I have a new thing I do. It's kinda like "woohooing" every evening when I left work and headed home on the Likelike in Hawaii... serious stress release. I've discovered the hidden pleasures and pure mischievous delight of "dancing it out" secretly in my room. Crazy, arms and legs, dancing out the energy... all by myself, in complete and utter secret joyous escape... such glee.

I like the world. I'm actually a huge fan. I seriously dig humans. And I'm all about life. But let's be honest: There are nights when the only true therapy is a margarita followed by a ritual I like to call, "dancing it out." Jimmy Buffet, eat your socks off!

(Disclaimer: For clarification for the doubters out there: No Jose Cuervo was hurt in the making of this blog.)

2008 NEW YEAR'S EVE for 2009 Ridiculously Good Happiness and Success

2009-01-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

The whole conversation had started in my mind a couple days ago and culminated in a frank chat with my roomie the other night. Y'see, this is the thing- I've been thinking that I'm here at this place in life and since this is where I am, I want to make sure it's not a lame place to be. Being lame just would be plain lame.

The choice then to not make the mistake of having a lame jane (not that I feel any form of prejudice to any Jane's out there) New Year's Eve seemed like an obvious thing not to do. Actually, my thought was to do the thing on New Year's which would put me on the best path to ridiculously good happiness and success in 2009. Having experienced years past of great "typical" New Year's celebrations, we figured we should try for something atypical, and thus the research began. Turns out, there are many cultural traditions in the world that when done, all point to a year of prosperity and joy. And since I didn't know which one exactly would be "just the thing" tradition to make 2009 not lame, preparations were made for all of the top traditions to be fulfilled. And my New Year yesterday into this morning became a

2009 New Year's Eve Traditions Bonanza!

Let me outline what occurred:

Our only rule comes from the Vietnamese tradition of "Tet" requiring everyone to remain happy during the New Years Celebration to ward off bad luck in the upcoming year.

In Mexico, women wear red underwear if they wish to marry in the New Year, and pink is worn by pregnant women to bring luck to the baby. I don't have a lot of color options in my underwear choices, so red ribbons tied on my bra seemed like the obvious choice. Kinda fun to secretly wear red ribbons all day on your bra. Note: I do however have a pink bra, but I didn't want to confuse fate and end up with a baby before I got me a man. (A red bra will be purchased in 2009 for just in case moments just like this)

Also, traditionally in Latin America, those hoping to travel, carry an empty suitcase around the block. As the clock struck 12, we merrily marched down the neighborhood block ringing bells, shouting "Happy New Year", and carrying my empty carry-on and empty garment bag. (I'm so excited to see where my travels will take me!)

Many people in Spain and Latin countries eat 12 grapes at midnight, as a bell is rung 12 times. Each grape represents a month of the year. By eating them at midnight one hopes to have happiness and luck for the next 12 months. Down the hatch went the grapes!

Mini chocolate donuts were munched on because in many cultures they believe that anything in the shape of a ring is good luck, because it symbolizes "coming full circle". The Dutch thus eat donuts believing it will bring good fortune.

Many parts of the U.S. celebrate the new year by consuming black-eyed peas. They too graced our holiday dinner table.

Everyone knows chinese food is a staple of typical New Year's food choices. We dined locally. Although the usually good choice of a restaurant was overwhelmed by the volume of customers and the food wasn't the best, the time out was enjoyed and two important New Year's traditions were fulfilled. There was cabbage in the entree and of course rice. Cabbage leaves are considered a sign of prosperity, being representative of paper currency and rice is a lucky food that is eaten on New Year's Day.

I placed a flower in my car on New Years Day because in the Hindu religious celebration of Diwali cars are decorated with flowers and palm leaves to bless the vehicles to run well in the new year.

Scully lit a candle and let it burn through the evening. Vietnamese people light candles to honor their deceased relatives whom they believe return during Tet. (Vietnamese term used for New Year's celebration).
People in Japan really know how to ring in the New Year! (They might just be my favorite.) They hold forgetting-year parties to say goodbye to the old year. They also forgive friends and family for any misunderstandings and disagreements they may have had that year so they can make a clean start of the new year. ***ABSOLUTELY this was my favorite part of the celebration*** Each of us spent almost an hour doing a free writing therapeutic exercise (yes, I'm a therapist and proud of it) expressing hurt, resentments, anger, fear, forgiveness, wishes, goals, hopes, and desires. Then as part of our midnight celebrations, we took them out in the backyard and lit them on fire symbolizing letting go of the bad and welcoming in a fresh new start. The ashes were then returned to Mother Earth as fertilizer.

Japanese also ring a bell 108 times to chase away 108 troubles. They people all laugh after the gongs because laughter will drive away the bad spirits. With all the bad spirits gone and troubles and enemies forgiven, they enjoy a day of celebration. During our empty luggage parade down the street, we rang the bells 108 times chasing it all away, and trust me, we LAUGHED!

I hid money gifts inside our Vienna rolls following the Armenian women tradition of kneading bread and pressing in wishes for good luck and prosperity. Greeks also press small trinkets in their bread symbolizing good luck and wishes for the lucky guy who found it.

Notice the beautiful dolls we made. In Bolivia families make beautiful little wood or straw dolls to hang outside their homes to bring good luck. Our proud creations are still hung outside welcoming in the new year.

This morning, actually around eleven, for New Year's breakfast, I served myself up a pile of pancakes, just as the French do on New Year's and settled in to watch the rest of the Rose Bowl Parade, just as us Americans do.

We did watch the ball drop in New York on Dick Clark's Rocking New Year's Eve show. And I'll admit, Dick is a legend, it's his holiday, but I'm always sooo much more taken by Anderson Cooper's dimples! Ode to my secret crush on Anderson...

Romanians had a tradition of listening to hear if the farm animals talked on New Years Day. If the animals talked it was considered bad luck so they are relived when they do not hear any talking animals. I'm happy to report that once the bells started ringing at midnight, we didn't see or hear Lilly the Kitty for the remainder of the celebration.

And finally, raise your glass (mug this year) of Martinelli's Sparkling Cider to a New Year's toast for "ONE FINE OH NINE!"

Welcome to my 2009.

2008 New Year's Eve Preparations

2008-12-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

So, I have a question for you... what would you do on New Year's Eve if you were single, had a pretty trying 2008, and wanted to make sure you rang in 2009 with flair? Well, basically, here's a hint: it involves fire... I'm covering all my bases this time.

To Be Continued...

Winter Solstice Festival 2008

2008-12-20T21:49:00.000-08:00

Today is the shortest day of the year and we celebrated it at the Winter Solstice Festival at Red Butte Garden. It was time to welcome longer days and the return of light by greeting the sun with Winter Solstice festivities that included making pine cone bird feeders, casting our written wishes into the cauldron fire attended by Father Oak and Mother Earth, got a henna sun tattoo, listened to live Bluegrass band, made an Ivy headpiece to symbolize protection and healing, created a bell anklet to help ring and dance in a new solar year, and sipped on hot cider.

I had to "rent a kid", but lyss was happy to oblige. It was super fun! I have good feelings about this... I really believe we did our part and Spring is just right around the corner! You're all welcome!

Sweet Caroline... So Good, So Good, So Good!

2008-12-19T22:29:00.000-08:00

Neil Diamond LIVE~ Energy Solutions Arena
Santa may be coming to town next week, but tonight it was all Neil. I was not sure what to expect at a 67 year old concert... OK, I actually really thought it could be less than fun. Yet, I was curious, very curious, and figured every gal in the world should see Neil Diamond perform live at least once in her lifetime. I was sincerely surprised and entertained by the man himself. I'll admit, I didn't know all the songs. But when tens of thousands of humans all stand up and sing "Sweet Caroline" together the energy and excitement is so great. Then add to that "We're Coming to America" and I'm a mighty happy gal. Totally worth my $50 nosebleed seats.

Energy Solutions Arena all aglow with DD and me.

Novelty of First Snow

2008-12-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

How magical and wondrous is the first snow of the season?! The pretty white flurries this morning dutifully delivered with them the "Christmas Spirit" I've been sooo patiently seeking the last two months. After four inches of magical fluffiness fell, I excitedly dug out my Sorel's and with my roomie we eagerly attacked the snow shoveling that needed to be done... the novelty wore off...pretty quick actually. Luckily, I had on my Sorel's because the mere act of wearing their cute selves again energized my step and swing pattern. Truthfully, there is only so much swing one can do when you begin to realize this is only the beginning of a season of snow shoveling...

But nevertheless and not withstanding, it's Christmas time!

Quest to Pull Together My Past

2008-12-12T23:37:00.000-08:00

It was a beautiful night downtown tonight and thanks to Scully, I was able to go to the Tab Christmas Concert, which was great... bet y'all never thought you'd hear the choir making animal noises in a song... yep, we had them moo-ing, neighing, and baa-ing... priceless. Seriously though, it was a wonderful concert that I hope everyone gets a chance to attend.

On another note, after talking with Scully and Brynn tonight about our past adventures downtown, I've become quite concerned that many of those memories of my past are gone... I've totally accepted my memory isn't that great, but to forget such random and funny things seems like a tragic loss. After ruminating about it all night, I decided the solution was to write them all down, and since I can't remember everything, my next solution is to email all my friends and open up comments here for those of y'all out there that might have graciously allowed me to be part of your life and have a few good memories to share.

Below is the email I sent out to all my peeps. And thanks to Facebook, shameless plug, it's pretty easy to have ready access to so many wonderful peeps that I've been blessed to know in my life!

So tonight I spent the evening with two die hard lifelong friends in downtown Salt Lake enjoying the christmas concert, lights and food of the season. While manuevering through the crowds, my two friends began talking about a Utah Jazz game we had all 3 attended about 8 years ago. I 100% don't remember anything about the night, but apparently we had a great time courtside and topped off the night when I talked/schmoozed a horse-drawn carriage driver into taking us to our car in style for free. Apparently, it was quite the carriage ride that whole block to our car as he wove back and forth through the parking lot to "give us our money's worth".

Well, you see, it's got me worried... I've been thinking about it all night. What else have I forgotten? What other random, crazy, spontaneous memories have been lost. Anyone spending time with me quickly comes to realize I dont have the best memory, and I've realized there are probably quite a few past memories that are in this brain of mine, stuck.

So, I have a favor of you. Would you be willing to jot down (in the electronic version of jotting) the memories about me you have that stand out? Y'know, those random, crazy, or spontaneous moments we enjoyed together. I would so hugely appreciate it! I want to put them all together for my memories sake.

Thanks so much, Lori.

Have any memories? Go ahead and post them here. Much appreciated!

The experience of having TI in the house

2008-11-16T17:23:00.000-08:00

Working for a non-profit residential treatment facility at times means we have unique and talented people come to meet with the kids and share their words of hope and talents. Friday we had a major talent come to speak to the kids, but there's a story behind every good deed ...

TI is a huge rap art

ist/actor. He also has been court ordered to do 1500+ community service

hours in the next year. TI was arrested on gun charges facing a minimum 8 years sentence.

Completing the community service will help to reduce his sentence.

So, of course all the kids knew about TI and were ecstatic about him coming. They were more excited about him than when we had David Archuletta, just this last year... go figure, where are their priorities? We spent some time sharing with the kids about the real reason he was coming and what to expect. Imagine explaining to teens that their idol has been buying semi-automatic weapons even after having a felony charge... and those weapons were most likely not intended to be used for happy things out on the streets.

In the end, his message was focused on education. He told the kids to dream and then work their hardest to get their through educating themselves. It turned out to not be "that bad". I did enjoy seeing the ears popping up and eyebrows being raised doubtfully when he told the kids he is able to stay away from drugs and alcohol completely... the "posse" he brought with him all seemed to be "extra relaxed". (And the kids can spot it from a mile away.)

I suppose the point of this posting is the stark contrast we face in this world between those we idolize in society these days and perhaps those we should idolize. If you notice, we held the devotional in one of our chapels on campus and hanging above TI is a painting of Christ with the children. Of course I'm grateful that we had such a famous talent come to speak to our kids, not all kids get such opportunities, I sometimes just wish they were more interested in those influences that have character and traits that rise above the base selfishness of society. Y'know, like in Christ.

T MINUS 13

2008-11-15T17:44:00.000-08:00

It's been no secret that I've been "going through a rough patch" lately. Not the more productive or shining last few months of my life... not fabulous at all. I guess some might say I could learn from this time, that I need to pull myself up by my bootstraps and cowboy up... yeah, you're right. It's not that easy though. I was thinking earlier what term would I use for this period of my life? Y'know, like if I could put a word or phrase to this stage what would best fit? I've figured it out. I'm going through my "latency" period. Self-imposed? Yes. How'd you get here? I really don't know. A series of happenings and choices really. Ready to move on to the next phase? (deep breath) Yes. But it's going to take some time.

Def: Latency- The condition of being temporarily inactive or state of being hidden.

αφάνεια, λανθάνουσα κατάσταση, (σε Η/Υ) λανθάνων χρόνος (διάστημα μεταξύ εντολής και εκτέλεσης)
(That's the greek definition of latency. I don't read or speak greek, but c'mon, it looks cool.)

So, luckily for me, I'm going home. My second home, the one place on the earth that's a catalyst for change for me. I'm not naive enough to think I just need to jet across the ocean and spend a couple days on the island to be a changed being, but symbolically, it's coming at a good time. I have so much to take there. Not actual "things" but a lot of stuff to take and leave behind. Especially the bowl.

Like I tell my kids when they leave my office, "Go make good choices." It's all a choice.

1000 Times a Day

2008-11-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

You know there is a vast dramatic gulch between a "sorry" that changes your heart and opens it again and a "sorry" that carries the empty meaning.

Even if it's said every day- a thousand times a day... it all stays as an empty loss. It doesn't get to be simple.

But I promise you, I so wish it was.

Can HOPELESS turn HOPEFUL????

2008-11-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

OK all you wonderful, fearless romantics out there... have I found a new blog to follow for you! Honestly, it's a new must read on my list! A couple hours ago, I stumbled upon it and although there are hours of things I need to be doing right now, especially getting to the gym, I find myself newly addicted to the super hopeless romance rollercoaster of Cordy, Seth, and Chris. Throw in a little evil roomie Melissa, some fabulous triangle relationship drama, and cute hope and you've got a hit!

What will happen? Will Seth choose Cordy? Will Cordy continue to give into Chris's southrern charms? Is there hope yet to be had????? Yeah, I know, I don't know either, but ya gotta check it out!

http://www.mysuperhopelessromance.blogspot.com/

Day of Decision Making

2008-11-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

I've been tracking my friends and families (and even folks I don't know or like) posts and thoughts over the last few months while this significant time in history is unfolding before us. I'll be honest with y'all, I've noticed that the solutions don't seem to be as black and white as I would hope they could be for the world. I've waffled back and forth a lot over the issues we are facing as a society, nation, people. But I've come to believe that I have to base my decisions on two things: my values and what I hope to leave for my nieces, nephews, clients and future children.

So there you have it, I've made my decision.

These Are My People

2008-10-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

Just been previewing the family pictures we took this summer and realizing again how great my people are...

Being Still

2008-09-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

For the first time in many months, I've had some "down time", actually just a couple days of it, but they've been shaking my world. Who am I to pretend I'm OK? You know, even though down time is considered healthy and important, I've been afraid of it. The truth is: I haven't wanted to slow down enough to be still. Still can be overwhelming when you're just not ready to accept or hear what there is out there for you.

Secret: Sometimes even when I'm the toughest, I have to dig pretty deep to find my courage and energy for another day. The therapist in me is sure this is the product of the events of my life in the last month and like all things hard, will pass. The day to day of it though, sitting right here in the middle, at times seems impassable.

Let it be known, and let it be written: I'm putting off being still. Tomorrow work will follow, I'll get caught up in my other responsibilites, and I'll do my best to find some other form of a diversion. Like most of us out there, I'm quite competent of filling my days with stuff. Important stuff even. Anything to avoid being still.

But then there's the other side of the story... the essential need to work. To stay sane, I have to work and be busy and contribute to the Gross National Product. (which by the way, the GNP's not doing that great lately...) I love the calmness that comes to me while working. Being engaged in something other than my racing thoughts. And there is so much work to be done: employment, responsibilities, church, family, friends, etc... Thank Heaven for work. I need work. I'm happy and content and with all eagerness embrace work; yet tonight, today, right now, it's time to be still. So still I am.

The Way Life Goes...

2008-09-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

I have this job that keeps me always on my toes and ever so busy~ most of my fellow therapist friends spend their days/weeks/months/years sitting in an office chair and doing great work. I figured out a long time ago, I'm not that kind of therapist, I like being in the office (sometimes) and I love being out of the office (most of the time) working with the kids, getting my feet in the dirt, and soaking up the sun. Luckily, I found a job that offers that chance to me.

But there are those times when I just am not feeling up to being out and about, which happened recently on a trip with clients and their parents down the river. It's really hard to keep me away from the water, and out of water fights between boats, but when you feel like poop, it doesnt sound that enticing.

But, trying to be a trooper, I agreed to go down on the "serenity" boat. It didn't turn out too serene in the end. Actually, not serene at all. I was soaked and had unfortunately worn a white t-shirt under my life jacket.

That's the way life goes sometimes...

And then this last week we headed up to Hanna with some clients to do some camping and playing. It was a hoot of a good time, right up to the time I was rushing down the mountain to get to an appt...

Which is when I ran into this:

And that is just the way life goes....

From the Creation Perspective

2008-09-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

I've heard over the years about this exhibit and was told it was a "must see" in my lifetime, so when Body Worlds 3 opened in SLC, I was there on opening weekend. It didn't disappoint. I really didn't know what to expect or how I'd react, but being there, and seeing the complexity and beauty of the human body, has brought a new perspective into my life.

For me personally, I find it hard to understand doubting the existence of the Creation or a Higher Power and purpose after seeing how detailed and complex the human anatomy is. How could this have just "happened"?

The exhibit is a must see, it brings it all into perspective...

"Adversity stretches us to make us more." ~cb

2008-09-01T11:01:00.000-07:00

Let it be known and let it be written, I'm happily done with time-outs.

Goodbye Alice in Wonderland

End Of Summer Memories

2008-09-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

So much has happened this summer! Great times, and "stretching" times... but I've loved it every second. I'm coming to understand and "get" myself a lot better than before and at the end of the summer, as I look back, with gratitude for the outcomes, and some heart pain of course, I'm happy to be me... saying goodbye to the past year's love and lessons... realizing who the real family and friends are, and ready to get back to ramblin...

Above: During my Bagley Family Reunion, my car was "attacked" by my nieces and nephew: "In my world, everyone's a pony... they eat rainbows and poop butterfly's"... yeah, I know. Imagine the looks I got on the freeway. With my schedule, I didnt get to a carwash for a few days... so, i just drove around town pooping butterflies with the best of them. Below: one installment of the video scavenger hunt requirements
Lasts of many lasts embodied here... one of many: final concert of the season... Jack Johnson 2008. (Not the Performer of the Year, but relaxing none the less.)
Saying goodbye to Brewer and Dboy.

This summer I finished a couple classes I needed for my licensure in Utah. Also, I just got back from presenting at my first professional conference in St. George for NATSAP. Kinda feel grown up after that... I sold my condo, (yahoo) and am keeping my fingers crossed that the papers get signed in the next couple of weeks. This week I'm working the Utah PGA golf tournament... yeah, I know, I don't know golf at all... I'm travelling/camping with work at least two days a week until mid October. Once this moving and work fiasco is over, I've got Scarecrow to look forward to. Yipee! Hope to see y'all there supporting the good cause...

Ramblin Plans: I'm heading home to Hawaii, for a week or two of R&R in November. I then have a trip to see Hamano in New York planned, hopping back to Hawaii for the wedding, a Vegas trip to see Suz's dance competition, then I'm going to jump up to Oregon to reconnect with Teresa and see the coast. And all the while, I'm keeping that trip to Northern Cali in the back of my mind!!! For Sure!

Did I mention it's time to ramble again?! Keep tuned...

Llama Festival 2008

2008-07-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

Another Llama Festival has passed. This year I took some clients down to participate as well. They totally out ribboned me, but "it's not a competition, right?!" I did get a 3rd place ribbon in show and bombed the obstacle course... does anyone really ever feel that great with a "Participant" ribbon? Really fun times, even in the heat... and it was crazy hot.

Lavendar Days 2008

2008-06-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

Fairy Tea Party, Baby!
You may not remember, but around 365 days ago, I found myself burning mad when I found myself unfairly turned away from the Fairy Tea Party at the Lavendar Festival. Turns out, there really is a point in life when one is no longer considered a little girl, even if I'll always feel like one at heart. Last year, after being so disapointed at not being admitted to the tea party, I decided this year, I'd bring my own youngin's to gain access to pixie dust. IT WAS SOO WORTH THE WAIT!

The lavendar infused cookies and lemonade treats were more than one could have wished.

Jousting Competition

A Date with Tim, McGraw that is...

2008-06-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

Once a year, this man rolls into town that I just cannot resist! It's an addiction of sorts...
This ladies and Gents is our night: A night with Tim McGraw.

Natalie, Jamie, Rachelle, Marcus, and me. Chillin and waiting for the Timster.
Timmy! Timmy! Timmy! Timmy! Timmy! Timmy! Timmy! Timmy!

What a night!

Utah Arts Festival 2008

2008-06-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thursday night me-time at the Utah Arts festival downtown. Fun times, great food, and wonderful art. Best part of the night though was running into two cousins I swear I haven't seen in years!

Random, yet splendid cousin sighting.

The Pre-Llama Festival Training

2008-06-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

DBoy's new friend...

After the thrill and fun of last year's event, I decided to head back down south this year with some youngin's to give them a chance to train and prepare to compete in next month's Llama Festival. We had a hoot of a time! Vai was so gracious and accomodating. I've attached the final video of the youngin's racing up the hill towards the Krishna temple with their llama's. They had just finished up on the obstacle course. We are ready and eager now to compete in a couple weeks, I think we've got the edge!

Strawberry Days Rodeo 2008

2008-06-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Spending the evening with some folks and family at a rodeo sums up to a fantastic summer evening. Not to mention a money making venture for my niece... intro'd her to the world of the "cash cow" and although she entered the arena with a tear or two in her eye, she overcame and walked out of the arena with $10 cold cash in her little paws.

"Cash Cow" explained: picture this, a cow that has been adorned with $100 in singles and five's duct taped to his hide, being chased around the arena by 7-13 year old youngin's. Put yourself in the cow's hooves for a minute here - you wake up one morning and see nice farmer Joe walking your way. You think, hey, I'm going to get some extra hay today. Actually, Farmer Joe pulls out a wad of green cash and begins to tape it to you with this silver, sticky, and mighty itchy duct tape. Then, when the humiliation of being adorned with money is over you seek freedom, you are let out of the gate, only to find 50 humans running full kilter after you pulling on your hide. Would you not run too?!

Enjoying the rodeo. First one they'd been to. Also, came to find out that strawberries do not actually grow in big fields in Pleasant Grove. Turns out we paved paradise and put up a parking lot... So, we cheated and dined on Country Time Strawberry Lemonade and Strawberries and Cream flown in from California. Who knew?!

Alyssa modeling the treats.

Finally, check out the halftime entertainment! HOLY COW!

U campus musings

2008-06-20T07:38:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day to be. Ok, kinda corny statement, but man am I feeling it. I can’t really go into too much detail about my thoughts and my heart right now. Where I’m at is a pretty confusing spot. Yet, at the same time, I’ve been feeling a lot of clarity for the last week. It’s not really that important what to attribute this mindfulness to- more important is to acknowledge my now.

I’m sitting here under a large oak tree typing away on the University of Utah campus. This is a symbolic place for me you know. The U campus was my place of genesis to the person I am today. Not too long ago I would walk across this campus all by myself to my car after classes got out and ponder what would truly make me happy in life. I was a returned missionary, having accomplished that goal, with very little direction back then. That’s really when this ideal/vision began to form in my life about becoming a therapist. Daily, walking to by car, I spent my time figuring out my professional future, which is so intimately connected to all parts of me.

So being back here this week, at a substance abuse treatment conference as a therapist positioned in a job I love, with an organization I’m proud to be part of, doing the thing I love, is a full circle kind of moment… It didn’t come overnight, and it didn’t come without a lot of work, but I got here.

Now. It’s evening time again on the UofU campus and my mind naturally is racing through the what’s next to come… maybe it’s time for a new type of challenge.

Scottish Festival 2008

2008-06-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

A random evening of Scottish Boys in Kilts... nirvana
random boy eating whole bbq turkey leg... I wouldnt eat one, but figured a pic of him eating one would suffice. I stuck to the more simple foods, less bones and tendon kinds...

Scully and I with random kilted boys after the parade... She got to hold his "special baton"...

Tatoo Parade

Favorite of the night! Bison Brew Sasparilla in a brown jug... not the best tasting, but picture worthy. OK, not great at all, actually, neither of us finished it and both donated our bottles to the condiment counter hoping that some desirous other individual could enjoy some brew of their own...

Last Saturday Picnic with Hawaii Pals

2008-06-17T16:48:00.000-07:00

Stole this pic from Liv's blog, she was the gal who so graciously took it. If you read her well-written blog, you definitely come away with a sense of how amazing friends are, and I whole heartedly agree... I also came away from this evening with such a gratitude to be in Utah right now. It is a haven for me and I can't stand how grateful I am to be here at this time of my life.

Thanks for the pic Liv!

Time Out (vacation) with my fav Denverian's...

2008-06-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

First vacation of the season spent chillin' with my Denver fam. I really did have such a good time, all about family time, this one. Took one niece to her first concert (Jewel none-the-less), played tons and tons of Rockband, Wii, and Old Maid, trekked for my first time through Estes Park (Rocky Mountain National Park), laughed to full belly contentment at the Impulse theatre (comedy club) in downtown Denver, water sports, and slept, slept, slept... Nothing like getting caught up on my sleep. Don't know if anyone has experienced Estes Park for themselves, but let me tell you, it is amazing! So great in fact that I've dropped my other August vacation plans and am heading back for a week to explore the national park for a week. It is beautiful!

S and me @ Jewel

Estes National Park

David Archuletta (and look, there's me!)

2008-06-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

American Idol Star David Archuletta and some Bagley girls chillin' on a Sunday Evening... y'know, we roll like that.

Actually, he kindly agreed to accompany a close neighborhood friend who was scheduled to speak at my work's weekly Sunday devotional and then graciously sang, spoke, and posed for pictures with all us star-struck David fans. No joke, we (me and my nieces) stood in the line TWICE, not once, but TWICE, for the chance to shake his hand, get a picture (or 5) and some autographs.

Y'know, in life there are people that just really impress you. During the season, David seemed like a really down to earth, kind person with a fantastic voice. He really does seem to be that way in real life, but the bonus: he is a deeply spiritual, thoughtful, self-less, and warm person also. I'm way impressed.

He performed for us the Angel song that he sang on American Idol and then closed off the evening with the hymn, "Be Still My Soul". WOW! WOW! WOW!

Here is link to video someone in the congregation took of his performance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQDoIdbpfN4

Brewer's First...

2008-04-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

FIRST BATH EXPERIENCE (new shampoo and all)

Seriously, he just "tolerates" us...

FIRST LOLLIPOP (DBoy's Idea)

Brewer Boy

HOLI Festival 2008~ Festival of Colors

2008-03-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

I've heard about it, and always wanted to partake in it's festivities, but my schedule just never allowed me to do so, until Saturday...

I finally made it to the Holi Festival (Festival of Colors) hosted by our nearby Hare Krishna Temple neighbors (great hosts by the way!).

Picture this: a couple thousand humans all armed with bright, beautiful, brilliant bags of color standing on the lawn outside waiting for the effigy of Holica to be burned in the bonfire so that they can formally welcome in spring; which basically looks like the biggest colored flour fight you ever did see.

Until 2009! Y'all Come Back Now, Y'Hear!

New Boy Rocking My World

2008-03-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Dboy done got himself a dog... and trust me, this boy is the cutest darn dog you ever did see!

I could talk this little guy up until I'm blue in the face, seriously adoring him... he did run away last night, but he was found... and is being adored again... "as well he should be!"

But the truth is: I don't like the unadorable way he has messed up my house! A dog sure can make a mess!!! Still cute, just messy.

Hawaii Peeps Rock My World!

2008-03-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

It's always a happy Saturday when one can spend the afternoon with some of the most fabulous peeps! Check it out~ it's like a Hawaii peeps fast forward 3 years with seriously beautiful youngin's added... Missed those that couldn't make it... Perhaps we should all meet in Hawaii next, say May???

"Here's Lori!"

2008-02-24T22:20:00.001-08:00

Ok, ok, ok.... I've got the emails and read the requests and have finally come to realize that I've actually really become a blogging slacker... just keep forgetting to put life together enough to know what to share.

But don't you worry all you fabulously adored people out there, I'll step up and share the joyous, not so joyous, and ever so bumming events and thoughts that are happening in my part of the world.

Life is hecka good! Busy good! and just simply good... Turns out it's true, I really am a WORKAHOLIC. I put it in caps just to emphasize that I'm "seriously out of balance" when it comes to much else but work. Oh, I have a fun life, social and spiritual, but somehow, at the end of the day, it always seems to trail back to work.

Luckily, I LOVE WHAT I DO! Being a therapist is the dream come true that I'd been dreaming of for so long and not even knowing about. The organization I work for is great also. I'm enjoying my time and learning a ton.

So, I know I promised I'd turn over a new blogging leaf and all, but it's 11.30p Sun night and I am pooped. How bout I send out some pics laters?! There is lots to tell and so much to share... until then... night!

1830: In Real Life

2007-12-11T21:09:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl, I remember vividly one of my first trips to Utah and Temple Square. I remember walking through the visitors center and being taken by the replica of the golden plates that were on display. I also remember seeing in a museum one of the original copies of the Book of Mormon behind glass and thinking to myself, "I want to just touch it... I really just want to touch it."

It is such a vivid memory of being a girl who in little girl terms was beginning to put significance to what the Book of Mormon meant. Little did I know then how the writings inside of it's pages would add to my life and set me on a path I've been enjoying for many years now.

Tonight, my little girl hopes of touching it came true. My words won't be sufficient, but the moment is forever in my mind, to be cherished and safe. I was in the home of a woman who has accomplished a lot in her life and is a church history lover and collector. As I was walking out the door to leave, I stopped in her front room to admire the art on the walls. I noticed on the mantle a book that was oddly shaped. When I picked it up, I realized it was actually a box made to look like a book. (Now, those who know me will not be surprised about the next part... especially that I had so much gumption) I opened the box and there it was. I took a quick double look, because never in my life did I think I would actually happen across such a find. But there it was! After slowly sitting down on the plush couch, and picking the book up out of the box, I opened it and knew in an instant that it was real. My hostess explained to me that it was indeed an original. In fact, the historians have identified it as one of the first 6 printed... Imagine, holding something so precious, and knowing Joseph had held it too!

To describe the moment is too hard... the pages felt like air. In real life~ I held something Joseph held~ in real life! What more can someone really say?

TREES, TREES, TREES!

2007-12-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

Finding that christmas spirit is not too hard when you enter a room full off Christmas decor some donated and then others bought specifically to help sick children. What a great festival to attend to kick off the month of "giving".

Attach to the festival two purchased beanies, a couple gingerbread men, and chocolate and you've got yourself a pretty great night.

Tonight, sitting across the table from two of my fav peeps, I realized how great life really can be... even if my steak was a little too pink for my fancy.

Happy Beginning of the Holiday Spirt to All!

Turns out that....

2007-11-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

EXPENDABLE

Main Entry:
1ex·pend·able
Pronunciation:
\ik-ˈspen-də-bəl\
Function:
adjective

: that may be expended: as a: normally used up or consumed in service b: more easily or economically replaced than rescued, salvaged, or protected
— ex·pend·abil·i·ty \-ˌspen-də-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

Sand Dunes

2007-11-25T16:45:00.000-08:00

My 1st day & 1st downhill descent~ me on left

Went 4Wheeling with my sister, bro-in-law, and bro-in-law's bro this weekend. I'll be honest with you, being out on sand dunes is MUCH different compared to other places I've been 4Wheeling. I started out a bit intimidated by the sand, but slowly and surely stepped up to the adventure...

My first impression of the sand dunes was just outside of the ranger's station... apparently, there are frequent "serious accidents"... not to make one nervous, but it does. Unfortunately, we never made it to 6 days. Right after taking this photo, the life flight helicopter arrived and the recount began... Perhaps this and the overly excessive warning talk from my bro-in-law, were the catalyst for the development of some good old fashioned fear deep inside of me.

Sand Mountain is a 700+ ft vertical mountain that has become a extreme ATV enthusiasts plaything. There is no way in heck I was going to try to go up that mountain... but I did get the pic my bro-in-law took from the top. If you look very closely, there I am standing at the bottom....

Once I'd left the mammoth sand death trap, I took on some courage and pushed a couple more boundaries. I think the courage came instantly when my bro-in-law said, "I'm quite surprised to see this side of you. I thought there was nothing you were afraid of..." That reminded me that other than commitment and mice, there isn't much else I'll allow to scare me, so I cowboy'd up and played the rest of the afternoon...

Practicing in the "bowl", never did make it to the top ring... next time.

Stopped to admire the full moon moment before heading home... absolutely beautiful.

Running from my "Running MO"

2007-11-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning with my initial instinct to run to Hawaii... and it was especially not helped by my early morning email from Sunkist telling me there is a spot in the palace waiting for me... but, growing up means throwing off the old "MO" and trying to take on life from a different angle... but oh how I miss my Hawaii!!!

What a peculiar experience to wake up this morning without the stabilizing and validating presence I've grown so accustomed to... and then to have to resist the instinctual urge to text when the ridiculously fabulous thing happened to me... oh how I miss my Hawaii!

Straight Talk from the Past Months

2007-11-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

Knowing someone well is a privilege. Consider it, someone lets you into their world and shares with you the thoughts and feelings that drives their soul. It’s a pretty spectacular journey to say the least. And it’s even better when you come to know that person better, from the inside out, and you realize they form goodness. It’s simply awesome. To see someone not because of the qualities outside or the accomplishments they champion, but rather to view that person from a perspective only your internal senses can pick up. That connection serves to jump start all of our mortal senses to a new plane. A playing field where you actually can experience the sensation of toes tingling and hearts racing at the mere perception of that someone. Those perceptions, those sensations, seem to be from a different realm, a more hallowed and exclusive place of clarity. It’s a good thing.… Just realize what I just realized…

The New Girl In My Life

2007-10-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

Let it be known and let it be written: I love them all, but this one, she's different for me. Perhaps because she is my only sister's baby; but this one does something to me that I've not felt before... She makes me believe.

One Month Flown By...

2007-10-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.... I'm finally back and sorry to all who have emailed wondering if I had actually walked to the edge of the earth and stepped off. Nope, I've just been running like a crazy woman trying to keep up with life. There is a lot to report about in the last month, including birthday's, concerts, weddings, family, friends, and EPIPHANY'S. So, let's begin:

What I've Been Doing While AWOL

Scully was gracious enough to have a birthday that coincided with Peter Breinholt's Sundance Concert. It was a FANTASTIC evening! Beautiful location, amazing sounds.

Lovely R married her Dashing M
On a rural farm in Idaho, which means: I went back to the land of potatoes and sugar beets...

For work I've been rafting down Green River
with clients and families and camping under the stars in Hanna (might I add freezing my tail off?)

And enduring 2 weeks of early mornings and late evenings preparing for, enjoying, and tearing down WRA's Scarecrow Festival. Now, that's a lot of diet coke consumption!

And what about the epiphanies? Well, we'll save that for another blog...

OPA!

2007-09-07T21:30:00.001-07:00

GREEK FESTIVAL 2007

Spent a lovely evening with Liv-ers at the Greek Festival downtown. We ate scrumptious grinds, including lamb and squid, (yup that's right, I'm a sucker for a cute greek boy's food suggestions) and topped off the meal with baklava. For a gal that 10 years ago would never consider eating meat, much less lamb, I'm thinking I'm growing up.

Can't say we didn't notice/appreciate the "Greek God's in the Making" who provided the entertainment. Honestly, how do they make those jumps look so natural and easy, I tried, but didn't succeed, and was grateful no one was looking at me.

Ended the night with a lovely tour of the Greek Orthodox Church which was recently renovated. A kind man gave us a very interesting tour including great explanations of the art and deep symbolism.

Finally, word to the wise, or not so smart... Street parking is not always free... My perfect spot outside the festival actually earned me a $20 ticket. I'm happy to make my donation to the utah transit system, but let's be real, was that really necessary???

My Favorite Day of Summer~ and the last...

2007-09-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

HOW MANY WRONGS MAKE A "RIGHT"???

Ever had one of those days that start out great, but then turn out to be fabulous?! Me too. The last day of Summer 20007 was one of those. Absolutely Fabulous...

In a session this week, a client explained to me the reason for his restraint when someone was trying to aggravate him. He explained, "I realized that two wrongs don't make a right and I didn't get mad back." OK, so in those situations it's obviously true that wrongs combined don't make a right, but I found a clause this week. Really, I don't know how many wrong turns we took, but in the end, it ended up being pretty darn right.

Last Day of Summer 2007 (Labor Day) began with my determination to take the raft out on water and just "be". Luckily, DBoy was willing to venture out with me on a rambler's adventure (meaning, I really didn't know where I was going, but was sure I'd recognize it when we got there...) I'm thinking, like many before him, DBoy doubted my vision and sanity a few times, resulting in him stopping to ask a ranger if there really was a lake up the canyon. In the mouth of two witnesses, we proceeded with map in hand and pa's F150. The first lake was easily discovered, but buzzing with other humans hoping to escape the cement world. It would have been fun I'm sure to stop there, but c'mon, with a man's truck and all day ahead, why not go for the better lake option. We were told to go up a dirt road and we would find the second lake. Time really took a side to fun, but probably an hour later, both of us accepted the fact that we were probably lost and should have taken a few more left hand turns instead of the right handed ones we had chosen.

TAKE TIME TO SMELL THE WILD FLOWERS

So, question, when one finds oneself basically lost in the mountains, how should one respond? Obviously get out of the truck and take pictures! Sharing camera time was a bit new to me, but sharing is good. And although I was very aware that I perhaps would be "out shot" on that mountain, having a fellow photog enthusiast experiencing and digging "be"ing on the side of a random dirt road taking pictures was reason enough to share. I'll admit, DBoy actually has a good eye.

UNWRITTEN LAWS of PHOTOGRAPHY SHOULD NEVER BE BROKEN... Newbie chose to do things "his way". I won't completely rat him out, but remember yellow wildflowers don't just grow in the middle of purple wildflowers... good photo op or not, there are rules...

"LET'S BE HONEST HERE, THIS PICTURE NEEDS TO BE TAKEN" ~I agree. Summer into fall comes too quickly on the last day of summer. It's been a great summer for a rambler, favorite time of year for rambling folk. But if Last Day of Summer 2007 was an indicator of days to come, I'll be just fine...

JOLT, RATTLE, and SIGH... I could post pics of the remainder of the trip down the mountain, but I have my deliberate reasons for withholding that part of the story. I do however suggest that the forest people put NO TRUCKS signs at the beginning of trails, not the end. Priceless.
Oh, and I MADE IT TO THE WATER! A little coaxing and then a lot of begging convinced DBoy to get into the raft. Clearly, we had found our state of "be"ing relaxed and content on water as the thick stream of cars and trucks began their trek home from their own rambling weekend adventures. As the sun set on the reservoir and left silvery silk water surrounding the raft, I was confidant, we found adventure.

When You Can't Choose A Bowl Size, Wear It As A Hat...

2007-09-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Ever felt completely amazed/excited and overwhelmed at the same time?!!! That's me in IKEA. Usually an enthusiastic shopper who feels she is on her game, and can zoom through a Super Walmart in no time, I must admit I'm out of my element in IKEA. It was fun though to introduce TJ to a fond shopping love affair, she too is now a convert. In fact, I hear tale that IKEA has become her new "MECCA"...

Top the night off with a vanilla ice cream cone treat and the shopaholic's departed completely fulfilled with only one or two bags each- we are trying to cut down y'know!