Sledding on Christmas Day

We had a White Christmas with lots of fresh powdery snow, that made sledding way too much fun. The sun was shining brightly yesterday, making it a perfect day for fun in the snow.

Ryan and I wanted to thank all of you for the wonderful and thoughtful gifts you sent us. We really missed you, and I'm glad we were able to visit over the phone.

I received the "Santa's Favorite" Award today

We had a christmas luncheon at work today. We were served a yummy greek dish, homemade italian bread, and a salad for lunch. For dessert we had a cocunut cake thingy that we enjoyed while we did a white elephant gift exchange. We didn't actually bring the gifts; my bosses wife, who made all of the food for lunch, put together gift bags full of yummy treats. We then played the white elephant game with the bags of food. I first stole a block of hickory smoked gouda and a jar of sliced peppers. When that was stolen from me, I then stole a can of almond rocha and a box of minty milk chocolates.

The luncheon was concluded with an awards presentation, during which time I was given the "Santa's Favorite" Award. It said, "The UPS man about broke his back while delivering for "Santa" at the office. You must have been REALLY GOOD this year, but that comes as no surprise to any of us." The award couldn't have been more appropriate, because moments before I received it, there was another package delivered to me at work with Christmas presents in it.

I had to explain why there were so many boxes, and my response was that I have a mother who loves Christmas and who plans for it all year because she loves to see our reaction to the gifts that she has so creatively put together for us. I explained that the gifts we give within our family, while they may be plentiful, are all given with thoughtful expressions of our appreciation for each other. Of course we don't have to give material items to express how much we love and appreciate each other, and fewer gifts does (do?) not mean that we only appreciate each other a little bit that year. However, we get excited to let each other know that we thought of them when we saw a particular item, which reminded us of them; and more importantly, we felt they "needed" to have it.

I had a hard time explaining why there were so many boxes, but I guess that's part of the fun of being a member of this family. Some things just can't be explained or understood until you get to be a part of it. There's some extravagance weaved through our lifestyles and traditions, but it exists among people who care about each other's well being, who want them to be happy, and who will continue to stand by them through all of the difficult situations that life presents.

So thanks for the embarrassment and the opportunity to receive the Santa's Favorite Award. I know it simply means that I am thought of throughout the year, and maybe that I'm a little spoiled too.

Grey Hairs

So this weekend I had a rather rude awakening. While I was putting on my makeup I looked a little closer to my hairline because something seemed slightly different. So guess what I found? Yep, a whole stinking patch of brand new baby grey hairs. I actually did a double take because I just wasn't prepared. I mean come on people, I turn 47 just a couple of weeks ago and bammmm....my head turns grey. Hmmm, I don't think so. I plan on fighting back, just in case you are wondering.

Christmas Trees

This year John and I decided to break the tradition and purchase an artificial tree. He has been all for this idea for years, but I held steadfast to the traditional, fresh cut, yummy smelling tree. I loved the act of gathering the family to go pick out a tree and then the whole process of setting it up and decorating. Now that we are empty nesters though, it's not the same so it seems a good time to make the change. He went in for the hard sell this season and convinced me it was better for the enviornmnet, because we weren't wasting a natural resource and we would be "recycling" it annually. I was pretty comfortable with the idea and then Randy called and accused me of "going to the dark side" so I quickly tried to redeem myself with the "green" aspect of our decision, but he wasn't buying it. But then my friend Michelle, who's husband is a firefighter, confirmed it was an excellent decision due to the horrible fire hazard of real trees. I do like the new tree, especially the pre hung lights, but alas I miss the smell and most of all the fun family experience.

Wife, Children, Brothers the Strength of my Support

There never was any doubt I would get better. Through the power of their prayer and support they offered, it was destined that I would not only recover from this illness, but would actually end up being a better person than I was.
What a gift from GOD these people are!
I can no longer doubt the power of Prayer. Faith in our GOD and the the power of prayers offered stand in clear relief.
My only regret about this revelation is that I wish it hadn't come at such a cost. I wish to offer my amends to the pain and worry I caused.
My mental and physical health continue to improve daily and I hope to be back to "normal" in the next few weeks.
Make no mistake about this, I know who is to blame for this and where the beginning came from. I see this person every morning as I shave.
I thank all of you and profess my love for you all from the bottom of my heart.

Learning to post

and boy do I feel cool. As soon as I can find the box with my camera cords, I also have a picture or two to post. Hope everyone is well!

Who's a Witch?

 

Mom still has lots to teach me

Mom taught me how to quilt last weekend when she came to see me, and I finished my first quilting project today. It's so much fun to learn a new technique, especially when the final product actually looks good. I've tried sewing dresses and pants, and even shirts, and they just didn't turn out well, but I was finally able to sew something that looks like it should. Thanks mom. I'll be sewing a couple more of these in between the spurts of working on my blanket. (Crash is the final inspector of all sewing projects).

Crash had to inspect the pot holder before I was allowed to finish the table runner.

Getting Crafty in the Woods

Last weekend I spent some quality time with the girls sewing up a storm. Thanks to Brooke's amazing "cabin" we roughed it up in Twain Harte. This was a trip we planned a year ago while hiking up in Rancho San Antonio. I'm so glad it came to pass, it was way too much fun. Shirley was in charge of our project and taught me a thing or two about quilting/applique work. It's so much fun to learn new techniques and then get to put them to use right away! It's official, this is a new tradition that must be carried on....the question will be just how many times a year we can pull it off because an annual trip just isn't enough.

Jeff & Yoda Made it onto Cute Overload!

Check it out. http://mfrost.typepad.com/cute_overload/2007/09/and-thees-my-li.html It will make you smile, promise.

Ms. Hunter

This message is from PJ:

My TRUE inspiration...

I simply can not describe my complete reaction to your passing. It is even difficult to type this. However i owe to you and myself to explain my true feelings of your presence on this earth. I remember the very first day i met you in fourth grade when arriving to your awesome summer band camp. Who knew i was to meet the most legendary person in my life. I remember when i first walked to the door, and the moment you made your welcome with a "Hello sweetie! What ya wanna learn here this summer?" And i immediately made bonds with your daughter Johan and picked up the saxophone. i remember it like it was yesterday. I remember when you started me out in jazz choir, and helped me gain a true passion for singing. i miss those times when i could come over basically whenever i wanted...even if it did annoy you. i remember the phone calls whenever you needed a ride to the camps or the festivals, or you needed some help around the house and i dropped everything to come hang out with the best teacher ever. i remember when you came with me to accept your award for teacher of the year at my church, because that's how truly appreciated you were by me. You are STILL the best teacher i have ever had! i miss the way you inspired me to appreciate music for what its truly admired to be. without you Ms. hunter, i would have never found myself, and i truly am grateful for that. i miss venting to you when i had my dramatic teen years and even though they were ridiculous at the time...you helped me through it...made me stronger. You are my music Ms. Hunter...and your song will keep playing in my heart forever and always! i miss you so much..but i am grateful that you are happy in a place of no pain or worries, and you are reunited with your beautiful daughter. i am comforted to know that you are truly happy. You truly left a legacy that many may take for granted....but you left most touched with a soul that is rare in this world. I am so grateful to have learned from such a wise mentor who taught me how to be a true musician. You were a saint. And although we lost touched. I knew i could always count on you being my BEST friend! Without your help, i would have never learned how to save me from a world of turmoil and depression, because of the impact that you made to live for a life of bliss through music. i will keep the wonderful memories ms. hunter, as it keeps me successful in my music and in my soul. i Love you MS. HUNTER! i will never forget you! Your spirit is with me always. Love,Your Favorite AIRHEADPJ.

"Tail Waggin" Charity Walk

Just wanted to share some fun pictures of our Saturday activity. We took Jeff to the Furry Friends Rescue annual charity walk and picnic. It was an entire day of fun just for doggies and their people. Jeff is now sleeping soundly on his couch.....

Happy Anniversary!

Happy Anniversary Dad and Renee! We love you.

Vacation Review-Belated

I've viewed the blog for awhile and am ready to post!! Vacation in Oahu was one the best weeks vacation in a long time. Along with the beautiful scenery and weather, the presence of the family made for a genuinely restful and restoring vacation. What a perfect place. The sea turtles that frequented our little part of paradise was an unexpected bonus. What a gentle, graceful creature they are. The ability to swim along with them was awe inspiring. Golfing in Hawaii, especially at Turtle Bay was great fun. The course was very well kept and interesting to play.
I really hope that we can go back soon. Of course who wouldn't like paradise?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRIANNA!

I hope you have a wonderful day, even if you do have to work. Make sure you leave early so that you can enjoy your bday evening. I hope you like your gift! Love you.

Vacation's Over

So what is better than spending a week in paradise? Spending a week in paradise surrounded by my family, that's what. So here is my top ten list of the things I enjoyed the most in no particular order:

1. Eating breakfast on the deck while watching the waves.
2. Evening volleyball tournaments
3. Golf at Turtle Bay (except for Randy's sprained ankle)
4. Turtles
5. Hiking the falls
6. Family dinners
7. Watching the sunset
8. Game time (morning horseshoes, evening catchphrase, etc.)
9. Shaved Ice...no beans...ick
10. Laughing while we add some new memories

Feel free to add your own lists.

Small Town Living

PJ is officially moved into his new home. He and I spent the week cleaning/painting/repairing and moving him in. I drove up last Tuesday and I must admit Oregon is one beautiful state. Once you pass Redding everything turns green and lush. I passed over Lake Shasta and about a hundred Rivers and just enjoyed the view. Roseburg is typical small town America where everyone seems to know each other. I went into this great little antique shop and browsed around for a bit and then the owner asked me what I was looking for and directed me to another shop down the street that had amazing furniture on consignment. It just struck me as kind of cool that the shop owners were all about talking to you and guiding you. Something that doesn't happen much at Valley Fair. Of course there are pros and cons....the nearest Costco is an hour away so you have to plan accordingly, and the best restaurant in town is Red Robin. But the place has it's own little charm. PJ's neighbor introduced herself and the neighbors across the street waved and said hello. I've lived in my home for 3 years and my neighbors barely look up when you come outside, with the exception of the new young couple that just moved in across the street...they are friendly.

Updated photos of my garden

Click on the title of this post to take a look at my updated pictures of my garden. I added captions to make it more interesting. I ate my first home grown carrot today; it was so yummy. We had a salad made from swiss chard and carrots from the garden, and other veggies from the store, which will soon come from our garden (tomatoes and cucumbers).

Countdown to Hawaii

We only have a few short weeks left before the Hawaii fun begins. Is everyone working on their base tans???

Happy Birthday Holly

Can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks and give you a birthday hug.

Happy Birthday Holly!!

I hope you have a wonderful day, and that your birthday is as fun as mine was. Enjoy your new puppy! He's adorable. Love you!

Thank you for the Birthday wishes!

I feel very loved as I look at my hope chest and see all of the cards that you sent sitting on top of it. It was such a great day because of the cards and phone calls I received; I really felt loved.

Ryan and I went to Sizzler for dinner to revisit the restaurant choice of my youth. The food was as good as I remembered it. For birthday celebrations we went to the drive-in to see Transformers and Evan Almighty. I loved Transformers, but slept through Evan Almighty. I imgaine that it's funny, but it started at 12:15 am, and I was too tired to stay awake.

On Saturday Ryan went shopping with me to use some of my bday money and gift cards. When we were in Target he asked me how much I had accumulated in goods, and I told him that I still had quite a bit left because everything I picked out was on clearance. He then said "they have some cool banana chairs here that I bet you'd like." Of course we all know that I really wouldn't choose to add an accessory like a banana chair to my apartment, but Ryan thought it was a great idea. We had to pass though because they were out of stock. Thank goodness.

Well, it was great fun. Thank you for making it special.

Ryan and Rachele's 4th of July

So Ryan and I went camping with his parents and a couple of his siblings. We camped at the best site in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The camp site sits along side a beautiful river and our site was next to a mini waterfall. We bbq'd steaks, cooked up some s'mores, and sat around the campfire. In the morning we went on a hike to White Pine Lake. It's an 8 mile round trip hike, and it was pretty difficult. We climbed from 7100 feet to 9300 feet in about 3 miles. The first mile was easy, which was very deceiving. The final destination was worth it though. It was the greenest trail I've ever seen. There were tons of wild flowers in bloom, and you walked along streams and rivers the whole way. It was great fun. We're now getting ready to go to the Freedom Festival in Downtown Provo. We were going to see Live Free or Die Hard, but Ryan's family wanted us to show them around the Festival, so we'll just have to wait to see the movie. Well, enjoy the pictures.

P.S. Notice in one of the photos that I'm wearing my Life is Good Shirt. I got the picture for you mom.

Las Vegas & The Grand Canyon

Our mini vacation to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon was so much fun! Except we are worn out now and need a vacation to recover. We flew in Sat. morning and immediately felt the effects of the 110+ heat. Luckily there is never an air conditioned building far away. So basically our trip consisted of eating yummy food, shopping, a tiny bit of gambling (I'd lose on the slots and John would make up the difference on the poker machines) and seeing some great shows. We had tickets to "The Blue Man Group" on Saturday night. If you ever have a chance to go see it, don't hesitate. It was pure entertainment...funny, great percussion, and clean! Sunday we were able to get tickets to see The Beatles "Love", Cirque du Soleil production. It was amazing! Again, I'd highly recommend it. From start to finish it was just pure music and the amazing acts that you'd expect from Cirque du Soleil. On Monday we took a day trip to the Grand Canyon with a quick pit stop at Hoover Dam. This was a highlight for me. John's been several times, but it was my first trip to see it. I was absolutely in awe. It looks unreal. We only had a couple of hours there so we didn't get to hike or explore too much, but to be honest between the heat and the altitude, that was ok. I definitely want to go back during cooler weather so we can hike or plan a raft trip or maybe ride the burros down (seriously!). It was so beautiful, it's almost indescribable. I was just standing on one of the lookout points and thinking this is just so amazing.

Summer Time!

I'm so excited! I will be going to NY tomorrow night for an entire week! This is gonna be great! I will post more when I get back, pictures and all! Not being in school rocks!! :)

MY PUG!

I will be getting a pug puppy on July 19th. Here is a picture of my puppy with his eyes open. Right now he weighs nearly a pound! He is so cute!

Flower Power

TGIF People! So whats the plans for the weekend everyone? I'm going to go play golf tomorrow morning and then probably hang out by the pool. It's a tough life but somebodies got to live it. Sunday is of course Father's Day so Happy Daddy day to all. I'm hoping to get some crafting time in as well, but that remains to be seen. The garden could use some TLC so I may end up just focusing on that area. Speaking of which, check out the amazing flower to the left. This is from my red palm that I've had for three years. I never realized the darn thing blooms. Pretty amazing huh? I moved it under the gazebo when we had that really cold weather and the plant just took off, it's now about 5 feet tall and blooming for goodness sake. Just goes to show how little I know about gardening and how much of my efforts are truly by luck. Oh and my jasmine is blooming again which is really strange because it has only bloomed once a year since we planted it and now it's blooming again. Go figure? Don't really know whats going on out there but I think I'll just sit back and enjoy the view.

PJ's Graduation Visit

Bri and I just came back from a weekend trip to visit with PJ and watch his graduation from High School. The weekend was great. We flew into Portland and drove down on Friday to Roseburg. Saturday, we visited the UCC campus in the morning to see where he'll be going in the fall (did I mention full scholarship, I'm just so dang proud). We then ran around all over town, shopping for graduation clothes, meeting up with his friends at various bbq's, having dinner at his current place of employment (Red Robin). Sunday was graduation day. It threatened rain, but we lucked out. It seems the entire town of Roseburg comes out to watch the seniors graduate. Gotta love the small town atmosphere. It was actually pretty nice to see signs plastered all over town giving kudos to the kids for their success. Later we dropped him off at yet another party and then picked him up again and headed out for a celebration dinner. He checked into grad night at the high school around 9:30pm and we put on our jammies and called it a night. It was hard to say goodbye on Monday, I really just wanted to pack him up and bring him back home. Luckily Brianna is always available to offer advice and explain to me that all of my children must live there own lives in there own environments and that this is the way it's supposed to be.

My Garden

I wanted to show you what I've grown so far. I wish you lived closer so that I could give you some of the leafy greens that we have. Click on each picture to see the notes I've written.

Here's what you'll see in the photos. Broccoli, Swiss Chard, Red Leaf Lettuce, Carrot Tops, Beet Greens, Pepper Plants, Tomato Plants, Spinach, and Basil.

In all I have about 16 lettuce plants, lots of beet greens, lots of spinach, not sure how many carrots, 6 Roma plants, 6 pepper plants (only 4 are doing well), 3 different varieties of basil, 1 rosemary plant, 3 broccoli plants (only 1 is producing), and 15 Swiss chard plants.

One of the pictures is of a very pathetic looking pepper plant, swiss chard plant, and broccoli plant. The truth is they were thriving, but Kitty decided she loved the way it felt to rip into the leaves. Anyway, this isn't the first time she's ripped the leaves off those plants, and they've come back strong each time she does it; maybe she knows something I don't. You'll notice that the broccoli is planted too close to the peppers, and that's because I didn't think it'd come back to life after Kitty destroyed it the first time. Now I'm torn because I don't want to rip it out of the ground so that my peppers can grow, but I want my peppers to grow. I may risk transplanting the peppers, especially since they don't look they're going to make it after what Kitty did.

We're also trying to grow pole beans and melons, so we'll send photos when we get them to come up.

Finally, I cooked the beet greens, swiss chard, and spinach into a side dish for Sunday dinner, and it was gross-too slimy and mushy. I'll stick to eating the spinach and swiss chard raw, and cook the beet greens in a lot of butter for Ryan.

Graduation Fun

What a weekend! I'm feeling a little lonely now though so darn it you guys. I love having everyone here for these types of get togethers. It was so great to see Bri graduate with her BA is Behavioral Science. I'm just so darn proud I could spit. To think she represents only 26% of the general population that actually graduates from college. Hmmm, I think our family is doing pretty well so far with our ratio's....Dad, Randy, Rachele and now Bri. Kayla and PJ you two are next up. I love the whole ceremony and the music that goes along with these events. It just makes me all happy inside. My cheeks hurt from all the smiling I did this weekend...thanks for the great time everyone.

Moving

Last weekend we helped Bri move into her new abode. Check it out: http://www.prometheusreg.com/residential/vto/vtoDesc.html It's a great feeling to see your babies all growing up and stuff. Graduating, living in a nice home, etc. Even though the actual moving part is hard work there is just something about moving into a new place that never loses it's appeal for me. Maybe it's the reorganization opportunities, or the newness of it all. I'm not really sure. I guess I just like the change of scenery. Granted I have no desire to move myself, so its fun to enjoy the process vicariously. By the way Bri, I have lots of ideas for decorating as soon as your are ready!

Thank You

Yesterday was Mother's Day and I just have to comment on how much sweeter it was this year then last. I felt loved and appreciated all day and I want you guys to know how much it means to have you in my life and be loved by you. It was an emotional milestone as it marked the one year anniversary of PJ moving to Oregon so you can only imagine the tears that were flowing at the slightest provocation. The biggest out pour came when a delivery of flowers showed up from him. Luckily John was close by with tissues and positive gestures. I struggle every day with that decision we made a year ago and I am so thankful that things are good now in his life and we can start to move on. The best Mother's Day gift of all is knowing my kids are happy and living good lives. I am so thankful and proud of all three of you, for your accomplishments, for you caring hearts, and for the joy you give me each and every day.

Way to go PJ!!!!!

PJ does good. What a week for good news from my #1 son. First he called to say he turned in the last of his make up work and will graduate from Seminary! Then today he called to say he made the cut for the Choir he was trying out for at the Community College. This is a great opportunity for him because not only does he get to keep working on his music, but it also includes a scholorship.

The Simmering Point: Almost

The Simmering Point: Almost
www.sanjosefit.com
I will be doing the Silicon Valley Marathon on Nov. 4, 2007.

Holly's Birthday List

This was just too funny to pass up. Holly you are a girl on a mission and I totally understand where you are coming from! I hope you get what you wish for.

Look what came in the mail!!!

 
 

Family Journaling

What a concept...an online journal for the whole family to share. This is an invitation for all of us to share our thoughts, ideas, funny anecdotes, frustrations, celebrations, well you get the idea. You are welcome to add posts, comments, add photos or albums, lists, add to the calendar, expand the links, basically share and expand to your hearts content. So hook up the RSS feed link and keep an eye on what the rest of your familia is up to. Oh and don't blame me if you start feeling all warm and fuzzy in the process.

I am no longer a wannabe

So after a few lessons I decided I was big enough to play on the real golf course and Saturday was my moment. Rachele and Ryan were in town for her girlfriend's wedding, which coincidentally was on their 1st anniversary, so they basically just swapped roles (bride/bridesmaid)and the four of us went to play 9 holes before the afternoon wedding fun. I am hooked. I was a nervous wreck on the first whole, but after that I just settled down and had fun. I only lost one ball (again on the first whole...didn't realize I had to keep track) and pretty much used my 6 iron for the whole game because I haven't had my full swing driving lesson yet, but it was great. I can't wait to play again. Check out the web album for some pics of the day.

My Broccoli Plants

My broccoli leaves are turning red. Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

I'm very sensitive about my garden, so it makes me sad to think that I'm killing my plants. By the way, Kitty killed 3 of the broccoli plants, and a wind storm killed another of the plants, so now I'm down to four. I can't afford to lose another. I need broccoli.

Monday Recap

This week's things to be thankful for: John's blood sugar is getting better, Rachele and Ryan are coming for a visit (I can finally dispose of the year old top to their wedding cake that is hogging space in my freezer), Brianna only has 4 weeks of school left, PJ has just slightly longer, work is plentiful, the bills are paid, my garden is starting to take off, life is good.

Ripples

Yesterday the theme in our lessons at church was all about achieving peace in our lives. So the question of the day is, what can we do to have more peace? Seems we are always faced with adverse situations that we have to be responsible about and those times don't always lead to peaceful conditions. I was thinking about what causes me the most stress or discomfort and the first thought that came to mind was when my family members are struggling. I can physically feel this ripple go through my body when one of you is upset. So for me, achieving peace would be casting a huge bubble over my loved ones and keeping them safe and protected. Not too realistic, I know. I guess in looking at the other side of this coin, I am filled with happy ripples when I hear you are doing well. Any thoughts?

Preview to my New York trip

My flight leaves SLC at 8:50 am, and I plan on being at the airport at 7:30 am. This means that I'll probably get up around 6:00 am, but I'm not worried about being tired because I plan on sleeping through the entire plane ride. We'll arrive at JFK around 4 something, and head over to the Hilton. I don't know what we'll do tomorrow night, and since I have no idea what I'm supposed to be doing on Tuesday and Wednesday at the client's office, I hope that I get a good debrief tomorrow night.

It's supposed to be raining while I'm there, so whatever we do in the evenings and during the day on Thursday will be inside. I'll provide updates at the end of each day, with photos, to share the details of the day's events.

One thing I would like to do, but probably won't be able to do, is drive to Rahway, New Jersey (about 22 miles from where we'll be), to a cemetary where some of our ancestor's are buried. I know it sounds a bit morbid, but that's where one branch of our family settled in this country after being dispelled from France in the 1600's, and I'd like to see it in person. There will be more posts to come on this subject.


Update: Well I didn't think that it would be so hard to send daily updates, but it was. We worked until 6:30 every night, exercised, and then went out until midnight. I was exhausted, but it was worth it. I made sure to get some New York bagels (nothing special there...they taste like Salt Lake City bagels and even California bagels). I ate at Ray's pizza instead of Lombardi's, because Ray's was featured on the Food Network, and since the Food Network has become my bible to everything food, I chose Ray's instead. We also ate at this little place called the Stardust. I couldn't think of a more touristy place. The food was pretty gross, but the entertainment was great. The waiters sing and dance through your entire meal. I sang along to Hakuna Matata, and a Van Halen song (can't remember the name though). I walked around time square, did some window shopping on fifth avenue, walked through central park, went to the top of the rockefeller center, and I ate, a lot. Let's be honest here, I didn't really have money to go to a show or to buy clothes from the shops, so I indulged myself in New York cuisine. One night I went to a little Jewish diner that served lots of pastrami and corned beef sandwiches that were at least 6 inches tall. The best part of that diner was the 6" tall cheesecake (I brought two slices home for Ryan). I went to Roxy's, which is famous for their pastries right after I ate at Junior's diner. I had a panini from Cafe Europa, and a chicken pita from the street vendor around the corner from our client's office. But don't worry, I walked every where and went to the gym in the evenings. Oh, I even learned how to successfully flag down my own taxi. While I was working I learned that New Yorker's are addicted to work; and I presumed it was because many of them don't have family nearby, so they rely on their co-workers to keep them company. Afterall, who wants to go home to a lonely apartment that has only a view of the concrete building next to yours? I also found that I love the city; I felt myself coming alive when I was surrounded by all the people and the bright lights. I just wanted to stay out all night and talk with people, and see some shows, and even go dancing, BUT I didn't want to do any of that with my coworkers, so I went to bed in my super comfy hotel room. Well there's lots more I could talk about, like what I did while I was working, but I'm tired. So if you want to know more, just ask.

Happy Birthday Kayla!

Birthday Wishes

HAPPY 17TH BIRTHDAY, KAYLA!!!

Dog to Dog

Tucker sends regrets about the chewies , Jeff - he'll round up a supply for you soon!!

Dad & Randy had a blast at the Hockey Game Saturday. Randy got to see the more gregarious side of his Dad! The two of them will be going to Lakewood this week for an interview with a Dr. re: Dad's back pain. Thanks, Randy, for your input & help .

Re: Rachell's NYC blog - is work taking her there? Would be great if she could find more about the ancestry while there.

I've got a bad case of Spring Fever wanting to get some flowers out but the weather here is cold one day w/snow& wind and then a tease of spring--patience, Renee!!

Happy Birthday Cousin (Conner)!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNER!!!!!

Almost

I'm almost a college graduate. Man I never thought I would say those words. I really do feel smarter, and honestly, I feel no where near done. I do need a break though, between work and school, I don't seem to have a spare moment, so for just a bit, I will do 'normal' things, like things I want to do versus what I am assigned to do. However, to stay in the loop, I will continue to research graduate programs, and begin the ever so fun, preperation for the GMAT.
My first challenge though out of college, will to be to start training for a marathon. Yep, you got it, BRi's gonna run a marathon. I'm going this saturday to Los Gatos High School to pay my fees and get all registered to begin training for the Silicon Valley Marathon. We will train from now until November 4th, and it will go from Downtown San Jose along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, and end up at Los Gatos High School. I'm kind of nervous, but I'm up for it, truly I am. So any advice you can offer I would love to hear your input.

YOYO

HAHAHAHA guess what its almost my birthday one of the most important days of the entire year!!!!! ya ya i love the happy birthday song its quite clever PJ:) and your SAT scores are great we got about the same score lol i got a 1420 pretty much the same thats tight we are as smart as eachother hahahha!!! how are all you guys over there anyway!

HEHEHE

PJ HAS COME TO RAID THE BLOG! YEEEE!!! hahaha just kidding! HI FAMILY! this blog is so rad! i <3 it! haha anywho....i have had some exciting news lately myself...for starters....i got promoted TWICE in my first month of Red Robin! YAY ME! AND...i received a 1380 on my SAT's..not bad not bad...AND....i am dead set on graduating! YEE! this has beena great month so far.....oh by the way...if i don't call you guys...HAPPY BDAY KAYLA AND CONNER! heres a littl bday song =)

My Birthday has a first name....its H-A-P-P-Y
My Birthday has a second name is B-DASH-D-A-Y
I Love to sing it everyday and if you ask me why ill say...
Cuz Red Robin has a way of celebrating your birthday =)

Hehehe..i love you guys and miss ya mucho! take care everyone until next time =)

Golf Lessons

Deciding to take golf lessons has been a long time ambition. I have always wondered about the mystery of the game and why so many people that play it are passionate about this sport. I am beginning to understand how it could become an obsession. There is just something about it that feels really good when you hit the ball just right and it makes that little "click" sound and then glides through the air. Yesterday I had my second lesson and I learned how to putt. However, does anyone ever really know how to putt? What I really learned is that I have a lot to learn and a lot to practice.

Dressing up the animals

Move over cats, it's the mutts turn to shine now. Dressing up the cats and stacking things on them has been quite entertaining. I'm sure we'll continue with our attempts to get them to sit long enough to take the photo, but if you get tired of wrestling with them just move on to your friendly pup. They're good sports. They let you put anything on them; it may be chewed up in a matter of minutes, but if you use the "Stay" command you'll be able to get the photo. And when you do, give them their moment of fame and glory on Stuff On My Mutt. To date, Razor, Jasmine, and Yoda have been featured on Stuff on My Cat. Jeffrey even made it on SOMC. Examples of the submitted photos are provided in this post.