Living, Laughing, Loving

Not much going on

2009-06-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say hello to everyone, especially you Mamaw :)

Not much going on here. It has been rainy lately. We are hoping for good weather next week. All three of Andrew's sisters are coming to visit us starting Saturday the 13th. We are soooooo excited to show them our town! Other than that, not much to tell. All is well in Lake Tahoe.

Lewiston Camping Trip

2009-05-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

Before I went on my whirlwind family and work trips Andrew and I met up with some friends for a camping and fishing weekend in Lewiston California. This is one of Andrew's favorite spots to fish because we never leave without catching at least 100 fish each. They are tiny, but it is still fun. Monica and Ashwin met us there with there puppy Kaiser. So we all had someone to hang with. The boys would fish, the girls and pups would hike, then we would all relax by the camp fire at night. Perfect relaxing weekend. We found out that Lille likes to fish to. She will patiently wait by the shore until Andrew catches a fish then run and help him reel it in. She is too cute. Enjoy the pictures.

Just an update

2009-05-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I know I don't update this as often as I should, so I will try to be better. I have had a busy May so far. I was in Mississippi visiting the family, and I had a great time. As soon as I got home, I went on a business trip. I was a way from home for 20 days! I don't know who missed me more, the animals or my husband. I will tell you that when I got home, my dog had taken up sleeping on my side of the bed with her head on my pillows. Just like a little person. She is finally adjusting to sleeping at the foot of the bed again. He spoiled all of them while I was gone. Hey, but at least he took care of them. Andrew's sisters are coming into town in June. We are sooooooo excited to see them and show them where we live. -=0 (don't know what that is, but Cali just jumped on the keyboard and wrote it.) It can be very interesting when your only co-workers are animals. So back to the summer plans. Andrew's sisters are coming in June, Mom and dad are coming in July, Relay for life and Ashwin's wedding in August, and 10 year high school reunion in October. Busy, but exciting summer. Our doors are always open so if anyone ever wants to visit us in BEAUTIFUL Lake Tahoe, we would love to have you.

Relay For Life: Let's battle Cancer

2009-04-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Andrew and I are participating in the Relay for life this year in Lake Tahoe. I would like to dedicate my walk to my Aunt Barbara. She just successfully battled her second fight with cancer! She is a very strong woman, and hopefully someday there will be a cure so that more mothers, daughters, and sisters don't have to fight the same battle. Andrew is walking for a co-worker who just lost his battle with brain cancer. We have both set a donation goal of $500. Please help us reach and exceed this goal. You can see out Relay Page at http://main.acsevents.org/site/TRC/RelayForLife/RFLFY09GW?pg=peditor&fr_id=14781&px=10689588

This year, hundreds of thousands of people will hear the words "You have cancer", and there's a good chance that some of them will be people we know and love. We have all been touched by cancer in some way ... and we all have the power to make a difference. That's why I have chosen to fight back right here in my own community by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life®.

I want to invite you to join me in the fight against cancer by making a donation in support of my efforts. Further down in this message is a link to my personal Relay For Life® web page where you can make an online contribution. Every amount, no matter how small, makes a difference and provides hope. You can also sign up to join my team and learn more about Relay and how it's changing lives.

Relay For Life® brings more than 3.5 million people from across the country together each year to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much. This fun-filled, overnight event empowers everyone to help fight cancer by raising money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society's lifesaving mission.

Thank you in advance for your support. Together, we will celebrate, remember, and fight back.

Prayers for our friends the Smiths

2009-04-09T12:36:00.001-07:00

The best man in our wedding, Jason, is expecting another child. Unfortunately, little Anya is going to be born with Spinabifida, and club feet. The family is currently struggling to make ends meet. Please keep them in your prayers and check out Deinna's, the mom, facebook page for updates.

Here is the latest

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=606322846#/note.php?note_id=84007791076

Here is the group page for Anya. You can also keep up with updates here

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=606322846#/group.php?gid=73512405699&ref=share

The Smith's have wonderful friends and an amazing church family. Jason is a Police officer in Branson Missouri, and the PD recently held an action that benefited the family.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=606322846#/album.php?aid=226775&id=534515452

I'm coming to visit

2009-03-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

It is official, I will be in Mississippi April 28 - May 5th. I am so excited to be going home to see the family. I am ashamed to say that the last time I was home was in October of 2006. I haven't seen mom and dad's new house or the new steeple on the church. Since I have been home last I have a few new cousins, a cancer surviving Aunt, relatives who have lost weight, cousins who have grown up, graduated, broke bones and I can't wait to see and hug them all. See you all soon!!!!

It's Snow Time

2009-03-04T08:36:00.000-08:00

Just when we think winter is wrapping up, we find that there is another surprise in store for us. Andrew and I woke up to two feet of snow at out house this morning. I am sure the mountain has 4 to 5 feet of fresh powder. Andrew was excited because he was able to use his Snowblower. Lille was able to hop though the snow and play with her pal Lucy. And in true Tahoe style, the snow is done falling and it is a blue bird day. If I didn't know better, I would say the season has just begun rather than it is coming to a close. I have Saturday off, so I plan on getting up to the mountain and having a fun day.

No more cast!!

2009-03-02T12:46:00.000-08:00

I got my cast off on Friday! My arm is doing good, a bit sore, but good!

Cast Update

2009-02-23T10:46:00.000-08:00

Well, this was supposed to be a happy blog, but now it is one written in frustration. I was scheduled to have my cast removed today. I woke up early and went to the Dr. To my surprise, my Dr. wasn't in today (due to a family emergency), and no one called to tell me my appointment was canceled!!! Another Dr. was in, but after looking at my chart, he did not feel comfortable removing my cast. I asked the nurse if the other Dr. was a ding dong. After all, how hard is it to remove a cast, my dad took mine off when I was in second grade. She let me know that since my chart pointed to possible tendon damage, the other Dr. didn't want to get involved. Wow, now two surprises. No cast off, and TENDON damage??? Shouldn't someone have informed me of this.......say.......7 weeks ago! I have one of those Dr. who is more into talking medical terms than actually having the patient understand him. I do remember him saying something about blood and sheath and tendon and some other crap I didn't understand. I would have asked him to explain it, but he spent about two seconds in my room then had the nurse cast it. Not much for bedside manors either. So now I have to wait until Friday. I am trying to be understanding. After all he couldn't help that there was a family emergency. Another reason I am frustrated is because I was supposed to get my cast off on the 16th, but it was a holiday. So rather than schedule it for later that week (which I found out today could have been Wed or Thursday because he had availability), I had to wait a whole week. So now I am two weeks longer than scheduled in my cast, and to find out something may be wrong with my tendons when I get it off is very very very very frustrating. Frustrated is an understatement......I am pissed.

What's been hiding under wraps!

2009-01-11T12:06:00.000-08:00

I couldn't stand myself. Once my finger turned blue and purple I had to see what the rest of my hand looked like under the splint. At first, Andrew was opposed to it, but once he saw the awesome "techno-colored" fingers, he agreed to help. Turn after turn revealed my lovely mis-colored fingers and new curves on my wrist! Once we checked it out and took some pics, we wrapped it back up. I see the ortho tomorrow to get the real cast if the swelling is down. Hopefully all goes well, I really don't want to have surgery. Broken arms suck, but getting pampered and getting out of chores is nice. Andrew even helped me fix my hair. The best part is not being able to put on my own clothes. Andrew had to help me button my pants last night at dinner. He said he is getting an idea of what it would be like to have kids. I miss being able to take showers...baths are getting old. I found a neat contraptions that fits over my arm and water-proofs the arm that will allow me to shower and not risk getting it wet! I saw it when I worked for the medical company in TX, my boss had one. I guess I'll be getting an early b-day present. Having a broken arm is not fun, but on the bright side it is six weeks, not a life time. Enjoy the pics, and I'll keep you updated.

Not on my 2009 resolution list....breaking my arm

2009-01-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

If only my non resolution worked as well at not happening as my real ones d0! Last night I was talking to my mom, and I needed to go over some info I had in the garage. I didn't want to keep her on hold for to long, so I rushed to the garage. In my hurried excitement, I forgot about the step that goes into the garage, and poof, fell down, broke my left arm. Maybe if I didn't work from home and actually went into the garage on a daily basis it wouldn't have happened. Just one of the hazards of working from home I guess. When it happened, I stood up and thought I could shake it off. I made it about 10 steps before the pain set in and made me dizzy and very light headed. The Dr's at the ER were really nice. They put me in a splint, gave me some good pain pills and sent me home. I am bummed because it is busy season at work, and ALL of my work is on the computer, and I now have three season ski passes I won't be able to use until mid Feb. Oh well, I guess it could be worse. I broke my left wrist, so at least it isn't my writing arm. The follow up for a real cast is next Tuesday. I think I am going to ask for a bright, fun cast. That way it won't be as depressing when I look at it. They have to wait for all the swelling to go down first. Right now it looks like I have a freaky growth on the top of my hand. ER doc said that it looks like a clean break and doesn't think surgery is necessary. The ortho will be able to confirm this during my follow up visit. Luckily, I have the best husband ever! Andrew is taking very good care of me and won't let me do anything to further aggravate it. We will see how long that last :) On the bright side, I just got a pass on most household chores for six weeks. Andrew is wonderful!

Just a few photos from the family Christmas

2008-12-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Ready for Winter

2008-12-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

Andrew and I spent 4 hours splitting and stacking firewood yesterday. We are both very very sore, but we will stay warm when the snow starts to fly.

Must try recipe.....

2008-11-16T12:41:00.000-08:00

Andrew and I are trying to eat healthy and get in shapse. So I have been cooking out of the Southbeach book. This meal is delicious, healthy and just as good reheated for left overs.

Mexican Lasagna Serves 8 Ingredients:
Try this lasagna when you’re in the mood for Mexican.
1 pound extra lean ground beef or turkey breast
1/2 large onion, chopped
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
1 cup fat-free sour cream
1 jar (4 ounces) chopped green chile peppers
1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups salsa
4 whole wheat tortillas (6" in diameter), halved
1 1/4 cup (5 ounces) shredded, reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheeses

Instructions:Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 13" X 9" baking dish with cooking spray.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray, and place over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, turning several times, for 5 minutes or until no longer pink.

Remove the ground beef or turkey to a medium bowl. Wipe the skillet with a paper towel. Coat the skillet with cooking spray. Place over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Add to the ground beef or turkey in the bowl.

In another medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, peppers, cilantro (if using), cumin, and salt. Mix with meat and onions.

Spread 1 cup of the salsa across the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange half of the tortillas evenly over the salsa. Spread half of the cheese over the tortillas. Top with half of the ground beef or turkey mixture. Top with 1 cup of the remaining salsa and 1/2 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat the layering sequence with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and ground beef or turkey mixture. Sprinkle with the remaining salsa and 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through. Loosely cover with foil if the cheese browns too quickly.

Yeah! We're Going to a Concert

2008-11-12T16:08:00.001-08:00

I am so excited! I heard that the Trans Siberan Orchestra was coming to Reno. I thought it would be in December, but I looked it up today and it is on Friday. I used a pathetic puh puh puh please with Andrew and he is taking us to see them. I have always loved their CD's and can't wait to see them! This should be awesome!!!

Finders Keepers...

2008-11-12T09:47:00.001-08:00

Well leave it to Andrew to find an abandoned motorcycle in the middle of nowhere. He was off roading in his truck and stumbled upon a motorcycle that had been partially striped and abandoned. With his superman power and excitement, he single handedly put it in his truck. His good friend Jason is a cop so he ran the vin numbers to make sure it wasn't stolen, and good news is it's not, and it hasn't even been registered since 1992. So now Andrew has moved from wood widdeling to wrenching. His plan is to fix it up and have a new toy. Here are some pictures.

The Newest "Andrew" Creation

2008-11-05T11:35:00.000-08:00

Well, I told you Andrew spent a ton of time in the garage making things. His newest creation is a cat tree. This is a real tree that we added platforms too. He thought the cats deserved a place to play. The pics aren't that good because of the sunlight, but you should be able to get the idea.

As Requested

2008-10-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

So after the initial shock, most everyone said they liked my hair, but said that it might need some highlights. So I added some. Here are some pictures. Let me know what you think. Oh, I also included one picture of the desk that Andrew built me for my office. There should be a total of four pictures. The system is being a little crazy, so you may need to wait for all of them to load.

Working out and loving it

2008-10-30T10:22:00.001-07:00

So once again I have started working out. This time I am really enjoying myself. Now that I work from home, I am desperate to get out of the house each afternoon. When Andrew gets home, he wants a little quite time in his man cave and I want to get out of the house. It is actually perfect. He builds stuff, I work out. For those of you who know me you know I don't sweat that much. I have always thought that sweating was a direct correlation to how hard you worked out. But no matter what I do, I don't sweat. I finally found a way to solve this problem. Andrew bought me a neoprene workout waist band. I love it! I sweat like a pig, gross I know, but so cool. They make shorts and tank tops too. I now want all of it. I can be on the treadmill for 30 minutes and sweat like a maniac! It may be mental, but I feel like I am getting more from my workouts by sweating. Here's to working out and not being a Fatty McFat fat any more!

Survey Says.......

2008-10-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Well working from home plus being bored equals hair dye and a new look. Thoughts??

Just an update

2008-10-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, you wouldn't think blogging was so hard, but I can't seem to do it on a regular basis. Let's see what has been going on? Our trip to Mammoth was awesome. Andrew was a little under, ok maybe a lot, under the weather and it snowed, so we were able to have a much needed weekend doing nothing. On Sunday we went on a beautiful hike near Lake Lindy (I think) and were able to sight see a little bit. We didn't get to see Devils Post Pile because of the snow and the recently discovered plane of Steve Fossett. Lille loved the snow. I think she thought we had it done just for her. She ran around like a lunatic. I guess we know someone is ready for winter!

The fall leaves are in full change right now and it is absolutely
beautiful every where you go. We spend the evenings driving around and enjoying the beauty of Lake Tahoe, corny I know, but fun.

We spent last weekend up in Apple Hill. This is an area near Placerville, about an hour and a half form here. It is an area where there are dozens of Apple Orchards and you can drive around to each one, pick apples, feast on apple dumpling, pies and even pick your own pumpkins in the local pumpkin patches. I decided to find the most retarded pumpkin and take it home. After all, retarded pumpkins need a home too.

We went with our good friends Josh, Jacie and their precious little boy Mason. The area is beautiful, and it was a great way to spend the day. Good friends, good food and good beer.

Andrew and I have also been spending the weekend harvesting firewood. He found out that for $20 you can get a permit to harvest your own wood. Needless to say, that is what we are doing. It is a lot of fun, and a lot of work. Who knew hauling giant logs from the forest to the truck was so hard. Yep, that's my job. I have to load the 1920's, gullopy of a wheel barrel we have (it came with the house) and bushwhack back to the truck after he chops the tree in pieces with his chain saw. We take the wood home, then he chops it to pieces with the ax, then I have to stack it in neat piles next to the house. We can't drive by a single tree anymore without him pointing out how great it would be for our collection! Ah, what a funny man. We will spend the next two weekends doing the same thing, as collection season ends on the 31st of October. Did I mention that he love to build fires in our fireplace. It doesn't matter if it is 65 degrees out side, he will build a fire, open all of the windows and heat the house. I think he would have made a great cave man :).

Not only is Andrew on a firewood kick, he is also on a building kick. I can't seem to get him out of the garage. He loves to build things, and he is constantly doing so now that he has a place to work. We have a two car garage, but I am convinced that only one car, if any will live there this winter. You may ask what does he build, well let me tell you. So far he has built a dog bowl box for Lille. It is a box that holds her food and her bowls go on top of it. It is white with brown dog prints on it. Let me tell you how cute he was at 7:00am on Saturday painting paw prints on a wooden box for his little girl, super cute. He built me a desk for my office, and he plans to add on an L piece to give me more space, he is now building a Cat Condo, jungle gym type think out of a real tree for the cats. He is also building a surprise something that I am not allowed to see. He is very resourceful too. The neighbors are building a house and he asked the guy if he could have the wood from the scrap pile, and he said yes. Wow, endless wood for building and firewood for fires. What more could a man want.

I guess that is it for now.

Heading to Mammoth for the weekend!

2008-10-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

Andrew and I are heading to Mammoth California for the weekend. Our two year anniversary is next Tuesday, so we thought we would get away and enjoy the fall colors. It should be exciting. They just found the wreckage of Steve Fosset's plane in the Mammoth Wilderness, so the place should be swarming with media. Not he quite trip we planned, but it should be quite entertaining. We are staying at the Westin Monache Resort which is a lodging partner of mine. So not only is it a little R and R, it doubles as a site tour. The best part of the whole thing is that the Westin is Pet friendly, so Lille gets to go too! I will post pictures when we get back.

Uh oh......here comes the stress

2008-09-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

I wish I wasn't having to post this. As you all know, we still own our place in Hilton Head. Due to the crummy market, it hasn't sold. We found out yesterday that our renter is moving out on November 1st. I am doing my best not to stress, but the what if's are taking over. What if we don't rent it? What if the place is destroyed and we have to put $ into fixing it? How are we going to be able to take time off in October to fly to South Carolina and check on the place? I am trying to stay positive, but quite frankly, after three years of being positive it is starting to wear me out. I am so ready to be done with that place. Andrew and I bought it thinking that we were going to be there for several years, not just two. We have spent more time trying to get rid of it than the time we lived there. We have been very responsible and paid all of our mortgages on time. It has been hard at times, but we did it. For the two years we lived in Park City, we both worked 6 to 7 days a week. It sucks paying for something that you don't live in. We have re-listed the unit, for sale and for rent. Please keep us in your prayers. We were looking forward to moving to Tahoe and not having to get second jobs. If it rents, this is possible. If not, looks like we go back to busting our butts again. Once again, sorry for the not so fun post, but I had to get it off of my chest.

New House

2008-09-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Well we are finally getting settled. We officially moved into the new place and received all of our belongings on September 15th. We spent last week unpacking and find a new place for all of our stuff. It is amazing what you forget you have, or have and don't need! As soon as everything is done, I will post some pics of the house furnished. For now these will have to do. Lille is loving her new back yard, she spends all day sunning and chasing birds. Andrew never leaves the garage. Currently he is working on building me a desk for my office. I have been helping out too. So far it looks great. I can't wait to see the finished product!

Home Sweet Home

2008-09-03T15:04:00.000-07:00

After four days of house hunting Andrew and I found a place. We heard from the landlords today, our application came back and we got rave reviews from our previous land lord. We are going tonight to put down the deposit, sign the papers and take some pictures. For those of you who know Tahoe, know that most houses are 70's "rustic." This is a nice way of saying, most places are overpriced POS. But not ours, it is older and quirky. It was built 30 years ago by a man and his wife. They have become sick and had to move to Carson City. The neighbor bought it and is now renting it. We will be the second people to ever live in the house. The landlords have repainted the whole interior and we are getting brand new carpet! There is a huge 2 car garage, or as Andrew calls it, a Man Cave. The home also has a huge back yard for Lille, and a wrap around porch for me! These are just a few of the highlights. I will post some pictures soon.

Super, Duper, Amazing Fantastic News

2008-08-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

It is official, Mountain Reservations is allowing me to stay with the company!!!

Mountain Reservations has decided to pilot a new program and have a Tahoe representative, and I will be testing this new program. I will continue working for the company as an agent and help build partner relations in Tahoe. This is a great opportunity for both me and Mountain Reservations. Tahoe is a great resort town that most of our agents haven't had the opportunity to explore. I will become the eyes and ears to bridge that gap. I look forward to working with the company remotely and continuing to be a reliable and honest team member to everyone. My goal is to help the company acquire more Tahoe resorts and build a successful California market as we have in Utah and Colorado. I am excited and grateful to be taking on this challenge.

This is a blessing and stress reliever for Andrew and I. I am proud to work for a company that sees and believes in my potential. Mountain Reservations has been talking about a program like this for a while, they just didn't have a person to head it up. Talk about right place, right time, right person right place to move. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers during the transition. Move date set for next Tuesday!

Scooter Update

2008-08-19T18:10:00.000-07:00

My pink beauty has been out of commission due to a faulty petcock valve. But, it is fixed now!!!! I picked it up from the repair shop yesterday!!! Now I am back on the open road.

Packing up

2008-08-11T16:42:00.000-07:00

Our home looks pitifully :( We took all of the pictures down last night. The walls are bare and lonely. I think it is starting to hit us that we are actually moving. The house will be controlled chaos for a few more weeks, then we will be gone. We plan on heading west on the 25th or 26th of August. Looks like the movers are coming on September 11th or 12th. So we should be settled in a new place in Tahoe by mid September. Both of us are excited and ready to be there. Sometimes waiting is the worst part. When we get to Tahoe, we plan on having a yard sale to get rid of some junk that we don't need. There is nothing like moving to help uncover lost treasures or buried worthless junk. We will keep you posted.

Hello

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

I know it has been a while since I posted anything, so I thought I would update everyone on what is going on. Things here have been very busy. We are working hard, and getting ready for the move. My last day at work is August 22 so we plan to head to Tahoe around the 26th or 27th. Andrew's first day of work is September 2nd, so give him a call and tell him good luck. He is going to be great, but he is still a little nervous. We have been looking at places to rent in Tahoe, and the good news is there is plenty of availability. So we should be able to find something that will work for us. The most exciting thing is that Andrew has promised me a back yard!!!! This means I can have flowers and a garden, even better, Lille will have a place to play.

My scooter has been out of commission for a little while. The repair place is sending me a new part. It is a problem with the petcock valve. I guess the part allows gas to flow from the gas tank to the carburetor. Currently it is stuck in the shut off position, so no gas is flowing. Bummer. Hopefully it will be fixed by next week. I had to put gas in my car, and I almost cried. I miss my $6 full scooter.

Other than that things are great.

Hope you wrote our address in pencil!

2008-07-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

BECAUSE WE ARE MOVING AGAIN!!!! Back to Lake Tahoe. Andrew got a promotion, and we will be relocating at the end of August early September. It has been over four years since we have been there, and now we are going back for the long haul. We are hoping that this move will be at least a five year stay, not the typical 2 year stint. We are very excited for the change, and can't wait to see some old friends. We will keep you updated.

Heros For Children

2008-07-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine is participating in a 5k run in September. The money she raise supports a great organization, Heros For Children.

Heroes for Children is a nonprofit organization providing financial and social assistance to families, within the state of Texas, with children (0-22 yrs of age) battling cancer. Formerly known as Taylor 's Angels, Heroes for Children was created in memory of Taylor Anne Brewton and Allison Leigh Scott. We strive to make a difference in the lives of families in Texas.

Let's help her reach her goal, and save some lives!!! You can donate at the following link.
http://www.active.com/donate/heroesforchildren/amandablankenship

Bored....

2008-07-09T12:01:00.000-07:00

I am at work and the systems are down and they have been down since 8 this morning. It is impossible to get anything done right now. I hope my clients that want to book don't go elsewhere. Goals are hard to hit when you don't have the proper tools to work. Oh well, I will just hang in there.

I GOT MY SCOOTER!!!

2008-06-25T21:29:00.000-07:00

I took a half day of work today and Andrew took me down to Salt Lake City. While we were down there we bought me a pink scooter!!! It is not a name brand, it's a Zingo. She is a 4 cylinder, 150 cc pink masterpiece. So far, so good. I rode it to the softball game in my ultra cool pink riding jacket and helmet. And trust me when I say, I don't think anyone will overlook me while riding down the road on what looks like a flying pepto bismol bottle dressed like Barney's girlfriend :) I love my scooter it is so fun! Bad news is that I had to fill the tank.......it cost me....$5.67 for PREMIUM!!! $$$$$$$ I see the savings already. Andrew has already tweaked my air intake to get help get more horse power. Gotta love a man who knows how to fix my toys. He also said he was going to "pimp" my scooter and make it super unique. Andrew couldn't stand himself and had to take the pink rocket for a ride, but trust me he doesn't look as cool as I do on a Pink Scooter. I can't wait for work tomorrow, well not work, but the ride to work.

I want a Scooter

2008-06-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

Gas prices are horrible. I don't drive that much and since I live in a small town with out much traffic, I really want a Scooter. Something very hideous, yet fabulous like pink or bright orange! I think they are so cute and fun. Not only that, they get 85 mpg!! I would only fill up once a month. My gas cost for my car alone is about $160 a month. If I had a scooter it would only cost about $16, and that's if I had to fill up twice a month. The money saved on gas would pretty much pay for the scooter. Don't get me wrong, I love love love my car, but I have never had a fun toy. It may just be a pipe dream, but I think it would be awesome and I would look soooooo cool in a matching helmet and jacket :)

Update on Joe

2008-06-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

From Joe's friend Marcus...

I just saw Joe this am and things are looking bright. He responded to voice commands at some point during the night. Although it is not where the Dr.'s want him to be, he is still continuing to improve at a fast pace. The CAT scan came back and did not show any major brain damage, just minor complications. They have an MRI scheduled for tonight to take a closer look. His vitals are good, and he was quite restless and moving around. They will most likely NOT have to put in a Trachea meter in his airway now. If he continues to improve the way he has, he will loose the breathing tube possibly tomorrow morning. These are all really good signs that Joe will be OK so let's all continue to pray for him.

Praise God for his work so far, and keep praying!

Please Pray for Joe

2008-06-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

A friend of Andrew's was in a very bad car accident last night. He made it through a long and intense surgery, but is still in a coma and non responsive. He needs all the prayers he can get. Joe is a wonderful father of two and has been a great friend to Andrew. For anyone who was at the wedding, he is the friend that came down with our best man Jason. Please Please Please keep him in your prayers. He needs all the support he can get. I will keep you all updated.

The lesson of five balls

2008-06-16T11:13:00.000-07:00

I just finished a good, easy to read book. One part of the book stood out to me, so I thought I would share this lasting life lesson.

The lasting lesson in Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas is the story of five balls. In it Life is a game in which you are juggling five balls. The balls are called work, family, health, friends, and integrity. Every day you keep them all in the air. Then you come to understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. The other four balls are made of glass. When dropped, they will probably shatter.

How are you taking care of your glass balls? Are you struggling to keep them in the air? Have a few already shattered and you are trying to glue the pieces back together? Do you take care of your rubber ball and neglect the rest?

Just remember to cherish everyday and live like it is your last day here.

"One today is worth two tomorrows"

10,000 Steps

2008-06-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

"There's a difference between knowing the path, and walking the path." I am going to walk.

My mom came to visit in January and gave my sister and I a pedometer. If you read the instructions, it states that to stay healthy you should walk 10,000 steps a day. For me that is just about 4 miles!

Have you ever really tried to track how much you walk, or better yet how much you don't. My mom has walked and dieted since the beginning of the year and had lost 40LBS!! Not only has she been following the routine, so has my Aunt, Uncle and even some cousins. (Your blogs are making me feel lazy). I know that with a desk job you don't walk much, but once you see how much you really "don't walk" it is kinda sad. I am making a conscious effort to walk my 10,000 steps.

Yesterday Lille and I went for a 6.5 mile hike (almost 15,000 steps). When I have days off it is easy, I will have to try harder on days I do work. The other day, I worked a full 8 hour shift and only walked 1,200 steps. Pathetic!

Anyone who knows me knows that I am not "fat," just pudgy and soft around the edges I am making a vow to exercise more and eat better this summer. To make sure I do, I am even going to tell everyone how much I weigh (143 lbs) and I will take measurements and post them too. If this isn't encouragement, I don't know what is. So hopefully the 10,000 a day it will catch on in my household like it has in Meadville!

Mtn Res Softball

2008-06-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

My work has a team, and I am on it. I think I am more of a filler than anything. Sometimes I hit the ball, sometimes I don't. It is a fun way to spend Wednesday nights. We are supposed to have a double header tonight, but it has been sprinkling all day. Not to mention that it is cold and supposed to Snow tonight!! Yep, I said it, snow in June. Just got word. Looks like for the third time this season games are postponed due to rain. Rats, I was looking forward to showing of my non-existent skills.

On another note, the weather has been nice and Lille and I have been going on lots of hikes. The trees are blooming and wild flowers are everywhere. I love spring!

Doggie DNA Test. Awesome or just bizarre?

2008-06-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

As everyone knows I have the most beautiful fun loving mutt on the entire planet. But I have no idea what breed she is. We adopted her from the shelter when she was 4 months old. (the picture is her as a puppy, she is about a year old now) Poor thing was abandoned in a shopping cart? Bad for her, lucky for us. She is an amazing dog, but curiosity is starting to get the best of me. I am at work today, with little to do but cruise the Internet. While doing so I came upon dog DNA testing kits. I must say, I am quite intrigued. Most of the kits cost between $60 -$100. You take a cheek swab, mail it in and wha-la. Mystery solved. I think it would be fun to know what breed she really is. Andrew is convinced that she is Lab/Beagle, but I am not convinced. I think she may have pointer in her, and everyone we meet on the street thinks she is part Greyhound. After all, if you had the perfect dog, wouldn't you want to know how to reproduce it? Not only could this curve my curiosity, it could come in handy at the vet. Knowing what breed she is may help avoid future health problems and possibly get to the bottom of her separation anxiety. Crazy or Cool? Vote on my survey and let me know.

Vegas/Wyoming Vacation

2008-05-28T11:55:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from our much needed vacation. Andrew and I had a great time. We started out in Vegas for a few days with Cyndi and Scott (Andrew's sister and her husband). It was a blast. We gambled, ate well and drank. Did you expect more? While in Vegas we were able to stop in and see an old friend, Rodger. He has been working in Vegas for about a year. I haven't seen him since our wedding, so it was very nice to see a friendly face. By the way, I got a new job. I am now a Hooters girl! Just kidding, but I look great huh.

After Vegas, we headed home to pick up the Lille and head off to Wyoming. The day we drove there it was snowing!! Yes, snowing in mid May! Not what we had expected, but we were going to wing it. Instead of a hotel, we decided to try VRBO. We ended up renting this great cabin on the Wind River, in Dubois Wyoming.

The weather wasn't as great as it could have been, but the vacation was very very relaxing. We hiked, fished, tracked wildlife, bbq'd and just hung out. Lille had a great time. We would let her out on the deck, and she would just lay in the sun and chew on sticks. One of her favorite things was to run to the river and get muddy. She also liked chasing deer. Man she can run. I think she is the fastest dog on the planet.

With all that said, it was absolutely perfect!

Just Because

2008-05-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

I will have to say that I am a huge fan of just because gifts. Last night I received a beautiful aquamarine (my birthstone) necklace from Andrew. It has several stones and it is called "along the way." There was no special occasion, he got it for me because he saw it and thought it would look great on me. I never splurge on nice things for myself, so he wanted to get me something nice to show his appreciation and love for me. So remember this, don't wait until a special occasion or a holiday to show some one you love how much you care about them. Do it daily. Don't wait, you never know when that special someone could be lost. Why wait until it is to late. Tell someone you love them now. "There is no time like the present"

Here are some fun facts about Aquamarine:

Aquamarine (along with bloodstone) is the birthstone associated with March. It is also the gemstone for the 19th Anniversary.
People in the Middle Ages thought that aquamarine could magically overcome the effects of poison.
Ancient sailors traveled with aquamarine crystals, believing that it would ensure a safe voyage, and guarantee a safe return; they often slept with the stones under their pillow to ensure sound sleep. They believed the siren’s (mermaid) fish-like lower body was made of aquamarine.

Its light blue arouses feelings of sympathy, trust, harmony and friendship. Good feelings. Feelings which are based on mutuality and which prove their worth in lasting relationships. The blue of aquamarine is a divine, eternal colour, because it is the colour of the sky. However, aquamarine blue is also the colour of water with its life-giving force. And aquamarine really does seem to have captured the lucid blue of the oceans. No wonder, when you consider that according to the saga it originated in the treasure chest of fabulous mermaids, and has, since ancient times, been regarded as the sailors' lucky stone. Its name is derived from the Latin 'aqua' (water) and 'mare' (sea). It is said that its strengths are developed to their best advantage when it is placed in water which is bathed in sunlight. However, it is surely better still to wear aquamarine, since according to the old traditions this promises a happy marriage and is said to bring the woman who wears it joy and wealth into the bargain. An ideal gem, not only for loving and married couples.

Getting up to speed

2008-05-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the quick of it. Andrew and I met in Tahoe, fell in love, moved to Hilton Head, South Carolina, married, moved to Park City. That's us in a nutshell. We have been living in Park City Utah for about 18 months and we have a beautiful family. Ok, so it isn't the typical family like most people think of, but our four legged loves will do for now. It's our family, and that's what matters.

We have Sammy, a three year old OCD Tabby cat. Cali, a three year old Black and White chunk of love. Last but not least, the most recent addition, Lille. Our mutt, who is on Prozac cause she loves us to much. We think she is a Labbe, a mix between a Labrador and a beagle. It's just a guess, we may never know for sure. But it sure is fun guessing.

Sharing, a lesson for everyone

2008-05-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

A wise man once said,

"Life ends when you stop dreaming, hope ends when you stop believing, love ends when you stop caring, friendship ends when you stop sharing…so share this with whom ever you consider a friend."

Andrew and I share everything with each other, sodas, candy, dinner, laughs, hugs, kisses ever tears. We know we move around a lot and are very hard to keep up with. This is our attempt to stay in touch with our loved ones. Enjoy!