Oi with the poodles already!

Howdy

2011-07-15T10:04:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone! I know it has been a very long time, but I guess the phrase "better late then never can apply".

For those who have been wondering about my niece, Mayra, she will be turning two at the end of this month. She never ceases to amaze me when we talk (aka I talk) on the phone.

I stole this picture from my sister-in-laws Facebook page :)

Watching her grow up makes me realize how time passes too quickly. It seems not long ago that I traveled to Texas to see her be blessed. I still think she is the cutest little, almost, two year old in the world but then again I am basis.

Since I have had some time off, I have been able to travel the back roads and enjoy some camping with my friends. And of course a trip wouldn't be complete if I didn't take some pictures so here they are. :)

Here are some pictures that I took in October that I thought might be worth sharing :)

Snowbird

2010-08-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

This year for my UCET retreat I was able to go to Snowbird. It was great that I didn't have to worry about the hours, upon hours of travel that I have experienced in years past. Despite having to work most of the time, I enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. It was strange to wake up in a hotel room surrounded by glorious mountains and not a tent.

This was the view from the balcony.

Slacking...I know!

2010-06-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

I am hoping that after a get a "break" for the summer I will be able to update my good'ol blog. Until then you will have to sit tight before hearing of any of my past adventures and/or feasting your eyes on something that could possibly look different...

Until then..."here's looking at you kid"

Heather This One's for You!

2010-03-05T19:19:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I know that the nerd or as some might say the "geek" in me has not yet subsided. For those who always wished that they could rip DVD's to your computer for iPod use...or other use this post is for you!

I know that I promised...awhile ago but sorry for the delay.

Handbrake a free open source software that can convert MPEG video or DVD's into an MPEG-4 format. Or in other words it is a free software program that will allow you to rip your DVD's to your computer and put them on other cool digital toys. This software now works with Macintosh, Windows, and for those really nerdy people Linux. It also allows you to rip any blu-ray disks as long as you have a blu-ray player associated with your computer.

You can download the software at http://handbrake.fr/. For those people who have Dell computers you might find that after you have downloaded the software the CD-ROM+DVD drive will not allow you to rip your DVD. If this happens you can go to http://www.slysoft.com/en/anydvd.html and download a free trail software. This should bypass problems that you might have.

Now that you know how to rip your DVD's you can easily enjoy watching your movies on your digital toys. Enjoy :D

Beware of Allergies?

2010-02-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

As some might know the UCET conference has started!!! If you don't...well you'll just have to visit www.ucet.org to find out more info. "What does this mean?" you may ask...well I'll tell you. Long grueling hours for board members who promote/support technology in the classroom for one crazy weekend. I am happy to work with these amazing people who also share my love of technology and help support the "inner nerd in me".

While manning my station at the registration desk a message rang over the PA system a warning for any of those allergy suffers to be wary by the vendor area. Most people had thought they were hearing things since the vendor area is a very popular in our conference. I however heard the night before of the future happenings and just had to see for myself.

This I can say is something I don't see at work...

Six month old Roxie, even though she had a broken leg, was eager to go hopping around. Luckily she isn't a fully grown kangroo otherwise she might tower over many people.

The Nerd in Me!!!

2010-01-28T17:44:00.000-08:00

As some of you might know I can be quite nerdy with my technology skills. Not that this is a bad thing, but sometimes I feel as though I should trade in the contacts for glasses and invest in a pocket protector. I am sure suspenders have an equal part in that equation. Since I am so nerdy I have to mention the new Apple iPad. Although I invested in my own iTouch I can never resist new technology. Even though I try I still can't get this fancy gadget out of my mind.

This nine inch screen that toggles at every turn and opens apps with a touch of a finger would have almost anyone daydreaming about it. Apples new pad reminds me of a high tech Netbook that everyone will desire to carry around. With Apple teaming up with Amazon it has me questioning how many people will still continue to purchase Amazon Kindles for future use. For those who aren't familiar with the new Amazon Kindle it's a book readers dream. Many books can be purchased and stored digitally with a number of licenses that can be sent to your e-reader or with the free Amazon Kindle App to your iTouch, iPhone, and now the iPad.

Although this seems very inciting there are a few things to consider. With the new iPad you will be charged $30 a month for internet use through AT&T. Not only will you have to pay there isn't a friendly web cam to connect with family and friends. Also another downside for me is that the biggest capacity that it holds is 64GB which is the highest that you can get with and iTouch/iPhone.

As you can see...or maybe not, there are many things to consider with this gadget. Now that I have put in my somewhat two cents you decide!

I Really Just Wanted that Cheesecake!!!

2010-01-22T19:30:00.000-08:00

Today I was able to go to the Olive Garden with one of my (partners in crime) co-worker. I was given the task to choose the location, and sadly enough the only thing I could think of was how I really just wanted the Raspberry Cheesecake. Of course I had to choose a meal...but I almost didn't have room for my beloved Cheesecake...(Yum). I did however manage, but suffered from over stuffage. Since there are wheels on the chairs my co-worker offered to push me all the way out to the front door as long as I yelled "Wwwwwwwwwweeeeeeeeeeeee"...although I wanted to it never did happen. I had once did it at a neighborhood Walmart and almost got kicked out. Worth it...but to be over stuffed and run away quickly, it wasn't an option. Anyways I thought I would share my love for this by sharing a recipe that I found online to make it.

P.S. BTW I should mention that I have never made this...but I could! :)

*  Exported from MasterCook  *
  Olive Garden Raspberry Mousse Cheesecake
Recipe By : 
Serving Size : 6    
Preparation Time :0:00
Categories: Cheesecakes
Amount Measure
Ingredient --Preparation Method
 ---------------------------------------------------------WALDINE VAN GEFFEN VGHC42A-----
RASPBERRY MOUSSE
    1 1/2 teaspoons     Gelatin
    1 1/2 tablespoons   Cold water
        1/2 cup           Raspberry preserves
    2     tablespoons   Sugar
    1     cup           Heavy whipping cream
                         FILLING
    1     pound         Cream cheese --softened
      1/2 cup           Sugar
    2                        Eggs
      1/2 teaspoon   Vanilla
    1     9″            chocolate crumb crust -- prepared
 FILLING-Preheat oven to 325. Mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs and vanilla with electric mixer
on medium until thoroughlyblended, about 3 to 4 minutes. Pour into prepared crust. Place on baking 
sheet and bake for 25 minutes. Cool to refrigerated temperature.
  MOUSSE-Sprinkle gelatin over cold water, stir and let stand 1 minute. Micro
on HIGH for 30 seconds or until gelatin is completely dissolved. (Or heat on stove with 1 
additional tb of water.) Combine gelatin with preserves. Chill 10 minutes. 
CREAM-Whip cream until soft peaks form. Add 2 tb sugar and continue whipping until stiff
peaks form. Measure out 1-1/2 c of whipped cream for mousse and set aside. Refrigerate
remainder of cream for topping.
 Gently fold raspberry mixture into measured whipped cream. Spread raspberry mousse
 on top of chilled cheesecake, mounding slightly in the center. Chill 1 hour before serving. 
To serve, cut cheesecake into 6 servings and top each piece with a dloop of reserved 
whipped cream.
Source: The Olive Garden.

Cute as a Bug!

2009-11-24T20:14:00.001-08:00

For those who are waiting for an update on Myra she seems to be doing well. Since I don't have the opportunity to travel to Texas on a regular basis I have relied on my brother and sister-in-law to fill me in on the details. I have taken the most recent pictures from there Facebook Pages.

Due to some unfortunate circumstances Myra was able to visit me right before I went to Texas. Of course I was more than happy to see her even though she was tried from her travels.

But I made up for it later in the week by going to visit her at home. I quickly discovered how fond she is of her car seat. If it were me I would say it is because of the plush bunnies on the straps. :)

As the days had passed since my last visit, she has tried to bond with Mojo. Or was that the other way around...

Myra dressed up as a frog for Halloween.

She is now three months old and is already rolling around on her own. BTW she is also very fond of her Binky. If you look closely she is trying to keep it from falling away from her mouth.

Overall she seems to be a "happy go lucky" girl and in my eyes as cute as a bug...or maybe I should say a baby duck/goose. :)

Glorious Millcreek!

2009-10-04T16:08:00.000-07:00

During this conference weekend I took the opportunity to listen to the spoken word while marveling at Heavenly Father's handy work. I know that I have said this time and time again but pictures never do the actual reality justice.

Of course I might had a little fun while taking various pictures in the process. :)

This truly is a great time to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. I would highly recommend going before it gets too cold.

P.S. I will post pictures of my adventures in Texas.

Such a Slacker!

2009-10-02T09:04:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone! I know that I have been such a slacker on my blog updates. After I revamp a few things I will post my adventures of Texas and other goodies. Until then :)

My Summer

2009-08-10T11:15:00.001-07:00

I know that it has been a while but as the long time saying goes, "better late than never." :)

Although I do have summers off at the district I found that my time was eaten up quickly by other jobs and things that needed fixing. I did find time to take drives up in the mountains. I was even lucky enough to have a meeting in Price. :)

Here are some of my pictures from my treks.

We also have had new arrivals to the family.

A spunky baby goose.

Any my new niece Myra Ashlyn Fidler

Taylorsville Days

2009-07-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

Taylorsville Days Fireworks!

Journeying in Midway

2009-05-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

My camping fever has sprung!!! On memorial day weekend after months of planing Heather and I Journeyed eastward into Midway. I know that this might be hard to believe but most my adventures have not brought me to this beautiful land.

On the second day of our trip we pursued yard sales and picked our future homes

This was Heather's

And Heather pick this barn for me so we could be neighbors...

I thought that it would be drafty and I picked this house. I like it a lot!!

After Heather we took a side tour to the "Snow White" house or so we call it. You be the judge!

Along the way there was a statue...we would like to call him crotch man! ;)

(Heather demonstrating her mad ninja skills!)

Later that day we saddled up to go to Bridal Veil Falls

Although this is a beautiful site we wanted to hike to the top and experience the spring for ourselves. Since the trail was so steep one of us fell...no names have been release to protect in innocent.

The next day we went to Cascade Springs!!

Heather tested the water!

It was cold!

I had a great time and although I wished that the moment could have lasted I knew I had to go back to work. Until next time Midway!!!

Antsy Does Time

2009-05-27T17:41:00.000-07:00

Since I post what I read every time I start a new book I was thinking that some of you might want to know what I thought about the particular reading material. I thought I would give this a try and see what I think (or others) of it.

Antsy Does Time by Neal Shusterman

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fifteen-year-old Anthony Bonano, otherwise known as "Antsy", finds that his friend Gunnar only has a few months to live due to a very unfortunate event involving "Roadkill Raccoon". To support him Antsy creates a document signing over two months of his life that becomes a movement among fellow classmates. Spending more time at Gunnar's, he falls for his older sister, and also notices that things are a little off. This sequel to The Schwa Was Here (which I did not read) will keep you laughing.

View all my reviews.

Possible new post coming soon. :)

Fairview

2009-05-14T16:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was given the opportunity to spend time with friends. Immediately after arriving to Wendy's family cabin and smelling the campfire, images of future camp-outs flooded my mind...from then on I have what they have diagnosed at "camping fever"". Although my stay was only a night and a partial morning I was hooked! I can confidently say that I will definitely make time to go out again. Thanks Wendy for providing shelter from the cold and Erika for the tunes and driving capabilities.

On the way back from Fairview we were able to see this extraordinary sight!

2009-05-14T16:29:00.000-07:00

I know this is a lame post but I found this quite funny and thought I wanted to share it.

1st Celebrity Swine Flu Fatality.......And we all know who gave it to him!!!

Facebook

2009-04-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

Those who have a Facebook account might enjoy this/or relate to it :)

I Guess it was Inevitable

2009-04-06T19:24:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks ago I had purchased a package of dog toys for one of my lovable K9 companions. Among the contents was a plush squeaky toy that resembled a duck.

Zoe was never one to pick up a toy but ever since Aspen was a puppy she never turned down anything that would squeak. Although she had found "puppy love" in many pleasurable squeaky toys she had never enjoyed faces. For some strange reason she would always tear them out within the day she received it. This would never happen to the faceless toys that were immensely enjoyed for many months.

I had figured now that she was older that this might not appeal to her as much. Whenever I gave notice to the tiny squeaks coming from her toy she would lovingly give it kisses in the face. Eventually she would put her head on the toy and go to sleep.

I thought that the face tearing had passed and that she would continue to have the toy for a few more months to come. Well....I was wrong. I came home today and found this.

I am sure that if she could talk she would have simply said that it was a lip piercing that went terribly wrong. After all she was only the victim in this. Once I gently placed the toy on the ground she snatched it up quickly and hid it from view.

Hum.....

2009-03-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

I think this bear has better talent than I do........................hum

UCET 09 Define Yourself

2009-03-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

What I have been preparing for months with my fellow comrades has come and gone. Friday and Saturday, March 6th-7th, UCET was held at Taylorville High school full of those who are interested in educational technology.

“What is UCET?”

“UCET is the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology. It is the mission of UCET to...

...promote the cooperative development and effective use of information technology in Utah's educational institutions.

...provide a forum for the exchange of information on technology by holding conferences, meetings, and workshops, and publishing a newsletter.

...bring together any and all parties interested in the use of technology in education for the purpose of representing their varied interests to each other and to the public.”*

Those who know how “nerdy” I really am have come to find out that this opportunity has been a great experience. I have never been known not to be in the electronics department ogling over the latest and greatest in technology. Of course I might wander out of the store with electro envy but who wouldn’t?

Our theme design for this year “UCET 2009 Define Yourself” sparked an interest and inspired my title background. Although I didn’t take the time to manipulate the wordle art for my own blog, UCET’s design was carefully created to the tiniest of details.

Sadly I wasn’t able to attend any of the sessions but was able to hear what others had enjoyed the most. Mostly people were awed by the iTouch, iPod, Flip Camcorders, Smart Boards, Smart Pens, and many others that I can’t think to name at the moment. I know for sure that I wouldn’t mind a fancy gadget like an itouch capable of downloading kindle books and many other exciting things. I know that I really can’t give it the justice that it deserves but the conference in my eyes was a great success. Until next year.

* information taken from www.ucet.org

My Favorite Artist

2009-02-17T19:39:00.000-08:00

Just a few days ago I was question as to whom my favorite artist is. Those who have had the opportunity wander in my living quarters would know that "hands down" I favor Simon Dewey's artistry.

After meeting him face to face a few years ago I was not only impressed by his skills with a brush and canvas but how his personality is reflected in his paintings. Some might go into a greater reason why they like him but, I have found that I enjoy the fine details and soft expressions that seem to always be included in everyone of his creations.

Here are some of the paintings aka prints that I have.

Sunsets!

2009-01-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

So a few days ago when I was feeding the geese in the back I came across the sunset in the back and thought it looked astonishing!

Little did I know that the view in the front of the house was just as amazing as in the back!

The Dog House

2009-01-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

So this is another e-mail that was circulated through-out the office which again I thought it was funny.

Beware of the "Dog House"

BYU vs UTAH

2009-01-03T19:17:00.000-08:00

Last week I celebrated Christmas with my older bro Matthew and his wife Ruth. Matt is a really BIG Utah fan and has been talking about the U ever since he has gotten back into town. Since he is into Utah so much I was a really good sister and purchased an official U of U shirt for his Christmas present.

Usually I don't take sides when it come to the U vs the Y but I felt like I would be a rebel (as I think I should) and parade new BYU attire in his presence. (I figured since I went to LDSBC and it is a break-off of BYU it was only proper)

My grandma caught wind of my diabolical plan and wanted to join in as well. Since she didn't have any BYU attire we made due with tape and and blue sweatshirt...

I thought it wasn't half bad myself.

My brother wasn't too happy with my decision but we decieded that we could still be friends. :D

Catch Up!

2008-12-15T20:05:00.000-08:00

So as I recount my events of this large town life I have come to the realization of several things; Number one shopping is still a torturous event.

Why is shopping such a torturous event? Those who know me know that I don't necessarily take on the roll of a shopaholic nor would it become my life long dream. No...Tom Hanks would not carefully look me in the eyes and say..."don't cry shop-girl". Whenever shopping for myself I can never find anything long enough or that fits just right without looking...well blah! While shopping for others I find it to be a long process. While sitting back listening and watching others while in the store I get a pretty good idea of things that are possible gifts in the making. If I haven't made a recent person in store contact...well I wander around the store aimlessly like a lost child. For an example one year I might have left my Christmas shopping last minute and ran around various stores. When a fellow friend found me at Walmart she happened to say, "Wow! You look tired how long have you been out shopping? Your eyes are bright red!" My response to this question was only and hour and a half, which was true. Now that you have a feel for my "love" of shopping try imagining me shopping alongside someone who shares this "love". Along with one of my fellow enrichment members we traveled the valley to find various emergency preparedness items. One of these items happened to be hand sanitizer. Of course every girl on a budget immediately goes for the best looking cheapest thing. That thing happened to be in Target on a lonely isle on the bottom self. The only problem was that this particular hand sanitizer had scents such as orange, green apple, blue raspberry, etc. and very little supply of just one. My fellow friend and I decided that we would sit Indian style on the floor to check out these various scents so they were not an anyway offensive. While sitting on the floor going through the bins a man asked if we worked at Target. Of course I was fully into this sorting of hand sanitizer that I never looked up and just said no. I never realized that when he was asking my fellow friend happened to be stiffing the blue raspberry scent that happened to be somewhat "offensive". This of course made the man laugh...laugh really hard. I couldn't help but chuckle then I realized...we are both on a dirty floor wearing black pants! We both had butt imprints on our pants! This will forever be brought up in my future conversations of this person.

Number two no matter how hard I throw the Frisbee I am still out of shape. I have recently discovered Frisbee golf although it is a fun sport I might reconsider playing it after have such a sore arm.

Number three many things change in the matter of a year or a few months. One of my good friends has been living in Vietnam in this past year teaching English. Only a few months ago did he tell anyone that he was engaged and getting married on the 14Th of December. Of course the first question was, "so is she Vietnamese?" Which he said, "No, she is someone that lives in Utah." Of course I didn't see that one coming after all the whole living in Vietnam thing.

Number four cats are curious; that's why they have nine lives. My grandma recently got a kitten not long ago that has a knack for getting into trouble. I have to say it gives me more of an appreciation for dogs.

Number five no matter how old I am, I am still a kid at heart. While driving around with my cousin Sharla we decided to try and find as many Christmas Story streets as we could. Some might think after you reach a certain age this magnificent display of lights would wear off but somewhere deep in my heart it holds an excitement that can't easily be displayed. It could be the lights or the candy cane coco....hum...I am not sure ;)

Just a Blur

2008-11-27T21:45:00.000-08:00

So I know that I promised a post about the hawk...awhile ago. Things have been crazy...so without further ado here is the story about the hawk.

Anywho there is a big field across the street from where I am currently living where many creatures of the earth preside. On more than one occasion I have run across quail, pheasant, various snakes, beautiful Monarch butterflies, and various small rodents. Of course this potential field party has attracted other visitors.

Just last year I had noticed a young hawk fluttering in mid air crashing the "party". Since this is a natural part of life for the hawk I wasn't too concerned. The winter passed and brought spring, summer, and then fall. One day I happened to let my dogs out and managed to see a large light blur streaking passed the window. Of course this peaked my curiousity so I opened the door to find my little dushound Aspen cowering in the corner. This happend a few times after the fact.

A few weeks ago I went to go take my dogs out again and found this hawk looking down for a meal in the front yard. I guess the phrase "your eyes are bigger than your stomach" would pertain to this winged creature.

P.S. For anyone wondering about the turkey's we still have three in the back ;)

Please Don't Judge Me

2008-11-23T20:47:00.000-08:00

So just this past week an e-mail was going around that I thought I might share. I know that it might be sick and wrong but I couldn't stop laughing.

I hope that this will brighten your day!!! ;)

Random Event/Thought

2008-11-16T18:43:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago a gentleman happened to come into my office to ask questions about the amazon Kindle. After discussing the product he had given me some background of his life as a professor in England. This might seem insignificant to some but after realizing that my last name was Fidler he mentioned some Fidler's that lived in England. I had mentioned that the Fidler's did come from England and that most of my ancestors were from Whales. He tried to encourage me to go back to where my ancestors lived to learn more about their past and how they came to America.

After this discussion I thought that I might never hear from this gentleman again but he arrived the next day with a book in hand.

He handed me this book so I would be able to learn more about the history of the isles, and also to remind me that I am only young once.

This got me thinking about a project that I was doing about a year and a half ago that I suddenly stopped due to a few events in my life. This book by the picture might seem small but even though it is a paper back it could stop a person dead in their track if it was thrown at their head. Will this spur me on to do more research outside the country? Who really knows...maybe.

Anywho this also got me thinking of recently discovered pictures of my grandmother, and mother that I never knew exsited. I had many people mention that I not only look alot like my mother but also my grandmother when they were my age. This made me a little curious to see how many simailarites that we do actually have in common. Since I was e-mailed a trial version of some software and I can't resist things that I might find fun or appealing (I know I'm a major nerd) I created this out of the trail version to compare similaries that we have.

My Frist Tag

2008-11-13T11:25:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Heather to fill out this 8 things quiz. Sorry I am a little slow posting

T.V. Shows I like to watch

1. Bones
2. Scrubs
3. Gilmore Girls
4. Bewitched
5. CSI
6. Lost
7. I loved TGIF when I was a kid
8. Another show that I loved to watch when I was a kid was out of this world because she could pause time with her fingers.

Eight things that happened yesterday

1. I rolled out of bead
2. Ate Cheerios
3. Went to work
4. Did some wash. (Yay)
5. Took some pictures of a hawk...a post to come
6. Went to peak
7. Watched TV with my brother Nathan and my Granny
8. Went to bed

Favorite Places to Eat

1. Home with my family
2. The conference room at work ;)
3. Rumbi Grill (I really like their sweet potato fries. Well worth it...at least I think so)
4. Paradise Bakery
5. European Connection
6. Grinders
7. The Robins Nest
8. The Pancake House

Eight Things I'm Looking Forward to

1. The end of the week
2. Getting paid
3. Going home
4. Finishing my projects
5. Spending time with my family & friends
6. Future travels...I am not sure when that will happen
7. Holiday Breaks!
8. Getting my Christmas shopping done

Eight things on my wishlist

1. House
2. More storage
3. New iPod Nano
4. Food Storage
5. More money ;)
6. More time with my family & friends
7. Time to travel
8. All my bills to be paid :)

Eight People I tag

1. I Tag Josh! Eight Times!
2. Anyone who would like to be tagged! Your it! :)

Hum...

2008-10-29T16:07:00.000-07:00

So I was just realizing after the previous post that when I started this blog we had seven turkeys.

Now we only have three

Hum...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Blogging just to Blog

2008-10-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

That's right! I am blogging just to blog!

I would like to say that I am cool enough to have random bloggable activities to blog about...but sorry I am at a loss.

Right now I am currently waiting for my brother. The thing that comes to mind while waiting is that a young turkey really doesn't look cute like many baby animals. Take for example...a duck. You may ask, "Why a duck?" Well I don't know why a duck, but it's a duck. Anyways they are usually really cute and fuzzy and everyone notices them around Easter time. Even the TV sitcom "Friends" has a baby duck and chick for a period of time. A turkey is never thought as a "cute" and "fuzzy" ever in it's life time. Most of the time when you think of a turkey you might have the same thoughts as Elizabeth did yesterday, and that was "Yum...Drumsticks!"

Why this thought provoking topic? Because there are two eyes that are staring at my fingers! It's creepy.

The culprit!

Random Thought

2008-10-20T15:55:00.000-07:00

So, have you ever noticed anytime that you have a little sniffle, that people treat you like you have quarantine stamped on your head? Just this past UEA weekend (a time where I thought I could catch up on things but obviously didn't) I had received the flu. (I know whoo hoo! Right?) Anyways during the times I wasn't curled up in a ball I was adding and redoing funish things to my blog. Hum...Is funish really a word?

Anywho I went back to work today and of course my voice was going all A-wall on me. This is when the quarantine stamp came into play. Some politely looked at my blood shot eyes and turned away, others quickly shooed me away with their hands. I occasionally had comments such as, "don't touch, breathe, or sneeze on this". Co-workers made invisible lines that of course I can't see. I wasn't even that bad. As I said before my voice just went a little A-wall. As a peace gesture I offered hand sanitizer wherever I went. Everyone politely declined. I thought the first preventive step was to wash your hands. Apparently I might have been wrong. ;)

Even though this should have bothered me.....it seemed like I was in my own little world humming the tune to "I dream of Jennie". Hum....it did help me get through the day which seemed full of odd random questions such as, "I know that we get this money from the state, but where do we get it from?" Again this is just a random thought.

Indiana Jones Moment

2008-10-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the little something that I have been working on.

Last week Erika and I went to go play in natures back yard (aka Heavenly Father's back yard). It seemed more colorful and brighter that the week that I was able to go into Millcreek Canyon.

Some of the pictures did not give this beautiful splendor justice. The trees were full of an array of fall colors that we all love and enjoy. Some of the trees were so bright they looked like they were on fire. I wish that I could just package every moment that I spent and take it with me wherever I go. Since I wasn't really sure how to do that I just made a home video reminding me of all the wonders in the world.

Thanks Erika for such an awesome time!

2008-10-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Working on a little someth'in someth'in! More posts to come. :)

Ahh! Millcreek!

2008-09-27T13:55:00.001-07:00

So I decided to take my trusty steed out today onto the road and go up Millcreek Canyon. I also took a few people along with me.

There was me of course...

My brother Nathan...

And last but not least....

My Granny!

(This picture was taken without her knowledge. If she found out that I as taking a picture...well lets just say the picture wouldn't have looked so well )

Since the leaves are changing color right now everything was so gorgeous!

Matthew, Nathan, and I have been bugged to go and get family pictures taken for quite some time. Of course Nathan and I took this opportunity to take some as a Christmas present ;)...We figured that they could tape us to the side somewhere...I am not sure what Matt will do though. :)

I think this will work. Right?!?

If anyone hasn't gone to see the mountains in their many colors I highly recommend it before it gets too cold. Anyways it was such a great experience that I thought that I might go again next week if the weather is good. If anyone is interested in going just let me know!

Stay'in Alive

2008-09-24T21:48:00.000-07:00

Those of you who are wondering if I am still alive no worries I haven't fallen from the face of the earth. ;)

This past Sunday our ward had a bake off! Since I haven't really been in a bake off I thought that I would give my mom's old fruit salad recipe a try. I really don't have any of her recipes so I had to do this all by memory...apparently I have found that I might have those "mad cooking skills".

At first when announced that the fruit salad aka "jello salad" had won I curiously looked into the crowed to see who the lucky winner was. When the moment came that I realized that I was the jello salad I am sure I had a deer in the head lights look. (A scene from Miss Congeniality had come to mind.) That would have been a Kodak moment. All I have to say is eat your heart out Martha Stewart!

Move Over Hallmark!

2008-09-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago I was sitting at my desk (at work) and then I heard laughter. Well of course when you hear the sound of laughter you have to look and see what all the commotion is all about right!?! I turned around to see what was making such a fuss I noticed a co-worker of mine just looking at me and chuckling. Of course this raised some suspicion. I wondered weather or not I forgot to do something in a rush to get to work. It was like a bad nightmare you know that other people have had, but you would never admit yourself. To my relief Gaylene (another co-worker) pointed out that she had given her a b-day card and asked if I had seen it. Well the look on my face had said it all..."Nope! Didn't see a thing." The of course the card came into viewing and I had understood everything!

On the front there was a picture with caption that said,

"Sometimes you just don't want to hear how old you are"

Apparently I was the actual one that had heard.

I had never thought that my mug would be carefully crafted in a birthday card....All I have to say is well done Gaylene! The three Administrative Assistants have struck again. Eat your heart out Hallmark!

Labor Day!

2008-09-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

So what do you do when you have a long weekend?

Text as many people as you can to go hang out!

And here is Heather with the PIZZA! YUM! :)

After eating some good food what do you do next!?!

Just ask any kid!

You go play on the swings of course!

Hum...this one's a little small

If you look closely you can see Matt climbing the top of the swings

Sometimes its true...the taller you are the harder you fall

So after the swings we had to play sardines

Matt was the only one we couldn't find before the sprinklers came on

So things that I learned this labor day were:

Don't wear flip flops to a park
Bring the nice camera
No matter how young you feel there is always something that tells you..."Oh No!" That wasn't a good idea!"
Climbing a tree with flip flops seems really impossible without some ramifications :)

Thanks everyone for the awesome time!

See Ya In 18 Months!

2008-09-02T16:10:00.000-07:00

Congrads Sam! Have a great time in Honolulu!

Nathan came too!

It was big bro to the rescue when it came to this pesky insect
This is an all time favorite pick for me!

Many Thanks!

2008-08-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday I was reminiscing about my trip last year to New York. Some of my favorite places to visit were:

Niagara Falls (Canadian side)

Glen Falls

Letchworth

And last but not least the sacred grove/Palmyra

During this reminiscing I thought about everything that my friends and family have done for me throughout this past year…all I have to say is each and every one of you are amazing and I am so grateful to know all of you. Thanks for everything you do and have done. Again you are awesome!

Who are we!?!

2008-08-17T21:09:00.001-07:00

We are the Gopher Girls

we always Gopher guys

who never Gopher us

but we always Gopher them

Upside

2008-08-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to realize that getting up and going to work at 7:00 am has some of it's upsides. I still stick to what I said before, "getting up that early is hard". Yes I usually do my exercise at 6:00 am but usually I tend to take it a little easy after that. Now that I am back to work my exercise routine has been changed...I really don't want to get up at 4:00 in the morning.

One thing that I do like about going to work that early is that I usually get to go home or somewhere else before rush hour hits (that to me is always a positive). Another thing that I have grown to love in this past week is that by the time I go to work the sun is coming up. Since I go towards the sunrise I get a really good view. I sighed because I didn't have my camera, but I used my phone to take the pictures. Yes it was while I was going to work...I was running a little late and couldn't pull over. :) Not bad for a camera phone pick!

I really like the gas station in this one...I think it adds a little something :)

P.S. no one was harmed in the taking of these pictures

P.S.S. leftovers from monstrous food sizes weren't as good as the original

Monstrous Food Sizes

2008-08-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

Sleeping in? Not an option! Why? Why…Because of the fact that I started going back to work on Monday. I know most of you won’t sympathize but getting up and going to work at 7:00am when you used to getting up around that time or later is really hard work! My days have been filled with blood-shot eyes and the hopeful wish that everything will get done and ready by the end of this week (ready for teachers).

Since I started I have noticed that my brain still registers as being on vacation. It’s sad when you can’t remember where you’re phone on your desk is. Anyways to give my brain a break I thought that I would go out to lunch with a few colleges of mine. We decided to go to this Mexican restaurant across the street from the district offices. Looking at the dishes I thought they were a bit expensive…but I thought since I was there I would try and be good and order a salad. Looking at the options I thought the Fajita Salad might taste good. After awaiting my meal they finally came…everyone’s eyes bulged but I wasn’t sure why. Then the moment came and I saw my plate. My little eyes got just a little big.

My meager salad turned out to be a MOUNTAIN! It didn’t even seem like a salad…I was thinking more of a gigantic taco. The thing that was worse was two other people that worked for the district happened to witness this monstrous food size and started to laugh at my reaction. They had offered to cancel their order and help me eat it…but it never happened. I now have lunch and some dinner left out of this one meal! I now understand why it was so expensive. Salad my booty!

Just having a little fun

2008-08-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

So during my UCET conference we did some experiments with word clouds revolving around the conference theme for this year. As we were doing this I thought that I might have some fun creating my own word cloud. Anyways I thought this was really cool and that I could put it on my blog. :) Tah Da!

Home...At last!

2008-08-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

As some of you might know I have been out of town quite a bit here lately. Since I have been gone so much over the past two weeks I have acquired a new nickname from my grandma. I don’t necessarily agree or disagree with the new nickname (which is being a “road side bum”) since I have been gone so long, but I had feared that I would need to put pictures of myself around the house so they would recognize who I was upon my return.

Last week I hit the open highway and headed to USU. I have never really been alone on the road for 2 ½ hours so I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I missed my driving buddies to keep me entertained. I know what you might be thinking right now…USU! Are you going back to school? The answer to that is…no. I had a UCET conference that was held on USU’s campus for three days. Those who know me know that I haven’t been much of a traveler in my early years so…well I have never been to Logan/USU before and I did make a few wrong turns. In those few wrong turns I ended up at the temple. It was so beautiful! Since my camera was in the back of my car I didn’t really get a picture of it. I looked at the clock and promised that I would come back someday. After that promise I found my way and checked in at the hotel. Once my conference was over I flew back down in the valley for a baby blessing. After the trip to Logan and back I realized that my car is not a fan of long rides…I have gained a few noises that were never there before.

After the baby blessing I carpooled back up to Bear Lake for a retreat! This was the first time that I have ever been to Bear Lake and was amazed how clear the water was. It’s nothing like Jordan River back home. J I had another first of sleeping under the stars that night. It was amazing how bright the stars were even though I didn’t have my contacts in. There must have been a dozen shooting stars! If my camera could take pictures of the stars this would have been a breath taking pick. Once the crows came to wake me up in the morning we of course had breakfast and then headed to Utah’s beach…Bear Lake.

On the way back we traveled through Wyoming and since I was in the back I was able to take pictures along the way of canyon. For some strange reason these canyons remind me of old western films and I was expecting to see some cowboys coming over the mountain tops. After the long trip back I was happy to be home even though I loved my new experiences.

Cabin Fever!?!

2008-07-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Friday I hopped in my trusty steed and headed off into the great outdoors. (Since this wasn't in my plans I owe many favors to people) My aunt approached me on Wednesday with a proposal to follow her family up to their cabin…since I will be getting ready to gear up to go back to work I thought that this might be a good plan.

At 5:00 pm I had my cousin (Sharla) a very furry dog (not my own) a birthday cake and a trunk full half of my stuff and half of theirs packed neatly in the car and ready to go. The hours passed by with many dog sneezes one pit stop at K-Mart and the music styling’s by Finger Eleven, Flo Rida, Gnarls Barkley, The Pussycat Dolls, Janet, Paramore, Shock Stars, and many more blaring we finally arrived at our destination at 8:45 pm.

Since it was so late we started a fire to roast hot dogs and burn our marshmallows.

I have learn a few things about my aunts family number one they stay up really late and watch various movies, two some of my cousins snore really loudly, three some of the dogs snore even louder, and four my cousin Garret talks in his sleep. Since I am a bit of a light sleeper and we shared a loft together I didn’t get much sleep.

Being the outdoor enthusiast that I am I almost pitched my tent outside the cabin but though better of it. My cousins (Jennifer) daughter Celeste would have come and found me outside and kept me up all night.

Since I have never rode an ATV before early the next morning Sharla and I went for a ride up the mountain side. We were almost all the way up when the engine killed and we couldn’t get it started again.

Rule number one
Never push an ATV with flip-flops on :)

Once we started going downhill we jumped on and hoped that we would get enough momentum to get up some of the steep inclines. Of course that never happened. Sharla almost started going downhill without me! For this beautiful moment see the movie.

A "kind" older man took pitty on us when I was running after Sharla going down another hill and asked us if he could help. You would think that suspenders that he was wearing would hold up his pants unfortunately every time he would bend over to show us what he thought was wrong there was always a full moon rising. My little eyes just couldn’t take it! Remember! Crack KILLS! After awhile he decided that he would tow us.

In answer to my prayers someone else came along to tie all the necessary things to the ATV.

Half way down the mountain side my uncle Scott came to our rescue and examined the ATV. He noticed the guy turn the gas line off so we couldn’t have started the ATV…Hum…and then he started it without any problems. Double HUM!

Anyways after our escapades I wanted to go for a hike…everyone looked like I was a little crazy so I stayed and play UNO with Scott, Lance and Sharla.

After playing I went hiking...here's another rule...if they ask you to bring a three year old on a hike politely decline. At first this is what everyone seemed to look like.

And then...not so much after awhile

But I still felt that I was on top of the world

Once we were able to make it to the top the view was awesome

Along the way we did encounter some wildlife

Okay so maybe there was mostly butterflies

Once we were finished hiking Sharla and Celeste went on the ATV and I went hiking some more.

Then we celebrated Sharla's 17th birthday! Since our birthdays are so close to each other we had thought about having a b-day party for both of us...it didn't happen but maybe some day.

After that it was time to get ready to go to bed and get packing for the next morning. All in all I had a great experience and made some good memories.

Woosh!

2008-07-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

"Faster, faster, faster, until the thrill of speed overcomes the fear of death"

Hunter S. Thompson

July 13th...what a day!
I was a blur of blue and grey
I thought that I would give it a try

and my eyes got really dry
My fuzzy hair was blowing in the breeze
At least I didn't freeze
Slipping and sliding

I guess that's what I got for riding
Clinging tight,
we went to the right
We were going fifty in a thirty,
and I got really dirty
Luckily no bugs were on my face...
That would have been awful to taste
Happy there was not one cop
we arrived to the top
The angel Moroni gleaming
I was just beaming
We came down like a flash of lightening
it was really frightening
The engine went dead
And then I thought about Fred (my imaginary boyfriend)

Plumbing=Troubles

2008-07-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

During this week a beautiful pipe broke downstairs in the dungeon (currently the place where I live and breathe) making it so I had to move all my things from the west wall...the question...can she put it all back together.

The fixed pipe! Watch out for your usual creepy crawly things!

I don't know about this...this looks bad. (What have I done!!!)

Hum...does this look right!?!

Success! Now the dungeon will be vibrating with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound! (I know! I am a tech freak!)

(She, can! She, can!!!)

Cost for pipe…too much

Cost for wiring…way too much

Cost for gas…unmentionable

Getting a high-five from “man’s best friend” for a job well done…priceless!

Sis'ta!

2008-07-07T14:26:00.000-07:00

I had to opportunity over the weekend to spend some bonding time with my youngest cousin (that I am aware of) Sharla. During this fabulous weekend of water fights and what not, she had adopted me as a sister. Now...we were thinking that since we are related that we might be able to pull the whole sister thing off but…we might need a little input.

She wanted to use this picture…but

I figured that this might be better.

Fences and a Pampered Pooch

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

So when I returned from camping I came back home to half a fence gone in the backyard! Since this tearing of our fence down was not approved it has caused some problems...for an example where do I put eight ugly turkeys, and two confused geese? We tried to put up a plastic orange fence so they could roam around but the turkeys have found ways to bypass the fence. The only thing that I can say right now to express my feelings is GRRRRH!

On a slightly funnier note (at least I think it’s funny)...my granny has a mini daschund that is her pride and joy. I have to say I have never seen a more pampered pooch in my life time, but you know when you walk in and see this it is going a little bit far.

The only thing missing is a pillow! I would have a slight problem if one of my dogs tried to take over my bed!

Camping at Rockport

2008-07-02T14:57:00.000-07:00

Ahh, Rockport! Where sunburns are made!

Since we were able to find a camping site late in the night a sacrifice had to be made…but first, a fire!

Since no one wanted to be sacrificed we had to turn to the plethora of gummy bears

This was a tribute to Wendy since she was unable to come

I should have guessed that any place with the word rock in it might have some affect on the tent stakes

Time to put the tent away