The Lucky Starfish

Grandpa’s Legacy

2012-02-12T03:05:00.001-08:00

Coming from a (very) large family of eleven children, I used to believe that family was everything. Getting married and having children was one’s ultimate legacy. And the more siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, the better. Being surrounded with loved ones is what makes the world go ‘round. When my mother died, I took comfort in in those around me. I knew that my family members knew the same lose that I did, and in time it brought us all closer together. I couldn’t imagine what life would be like without the strength of family.

The other great part about getting married and having children (as many or as few as desired) was being able to teach said children and passing down pearls of wisdom

Over the years, I have pondered what life would be like for those without family. I have thought about my Great Aunt Lillian who died before she was thirty. She was not married and had no children. What must life have been like for her, with little to no family to buoy her up in times of trouble? And what about her Legacy? Does anyone really know anything about her?? She had no children, and therefore, no one to pass her story on. No one to say, “My mom was…”. Maybe it’s because I am also childless and that I am totally over thinking this, but I can’t help but feel that these kinds of things are important.

And then there’s my grandpa. Reader’s Digest version of grandpa’s story is this: His mother left him and his brother and sister with their father. He and both his siblings were adopted together by a wonderful couple who loved them dearly. But his sister died at the age of eight, and his brother died in the war. By the time his parents passed on, he was the only one left in his family. Of course he married grandma and had their own family, but I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him.

Every year we go to a family reunion for my grandma’s side of the family. I often wondered if Grandpa felt sad or ever wanted to get together with his family the way he got together with Grandma’s brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, etc. I wondered if he ever felt as alone as I had sometimes pictured him feeling.

Back to the childless thing. I don’t know why but it’s important to me to leave behind a “Legacy”. Considering my Mormon, and very large family oriented background, I’m just not sure how to go about that with the ‘family element’ missing. Hmmmm. Still working on that. And even with my enormous family helping me out in my times of need, I still feel so alone.

This last weekend I had the chance to go to my hometown to celebrate my grandpa’s birthday. It was a wonderful day full of visiting with friends and family—many who had come in from out of town. This birthday was a special one because Grandpa celebrated 90 years! My cousin had this great idea. She thought that it would be fun to see if Grandpa could receive 90 cards for his 90th birthday. I figured with all of his kids, grandkids, and family, it wouldn’t be too hard to do. But still I wondered. He didn’t have nieces and nephews or the extensive family that Grandma does.

Finally the big day arrived. It was wonderful being able to visit with all of my distant relatives that I only get to see about once a year. But my absolute favorite part was that every flat surface was covered with cards. Funny ones, sweet ones, sentimental ones. Each one from someone who was touched in one way or another by my grandfather. It was overwhelming to think about how this one man created such a legacy within his community, family, and friends. At last count, he had over 180 cards, and they were still streaming through the door with all of the birthday party guests who had come to wish the birthday boy a happy birthday.

It makes me feel a little less lonely. Happy Birthday, Grandpa! Thanks for making a difference in my life. And for those of you you don’t know my grandpa, he is amazing, sweet, funny, and strong. And I think that is the best kind of legacy to have.

January 30, 2012

2012-01-30T13:08:00.001-08:00

It’s Monday again, and day 13 of the juice diet.
This weekend was so great, in fact I may start calling it my ‘weakend’ because that’s how strong my will power is when the week is over and the hubby and I are sitting around the house and out and about together. Truth be told, there were some other factors to consider. For instance:
Friday afternoon we met with Michael’s daughter-in-law and the grandkids for lunch! They were in town to visit family and we snagged them for a couple of hours. Hadley is getting so tall, and Holden is becoming quite the big little man. It was good to see the kids and the adults got to talk about one of my favorite things—travel.
The cool thing was that we had a $5 off lunch card at Johnny Corinos. Seems like we eat there every time they are in town. I think it is starting to become ‘Our Place’. The bad news is, while I was able to stick to soup and salad (both on my diet) it also came with unlimited bread at the table (not on my diet). So I splurged a little and had some bread. It was soooo good! I think I might have eaten a whole loaf by myself. and the roasted garlic was to die for! Not too bad if I just had a little bread though, right?
The Saturday I was really really good at the fruits and veggies thing because I knew I was going to be cheating again that night. We met our friend (a coworker of Michael’s) for dinner at The Front Door. It is a new york pizza kind of place and it was so good! which means I was so bad. Three pieces of pizza! The shock was that when I weighed myself the next morning I was down to 134.6!! Can you believe that?! Must have been all the dancing at the club after the pizza…
Sunday was pretty much awful. I am not sure if we are coming down with something or what, but neither Michael or myself felt very good on Sunday. So when we went out for lunch, I really needed some regular old comfort food in the form of tater tots. It was a terrible choice, but sometimes it’s what needs to happen, especially when you don’t feel very good at all. I tried to make up for it by juicing some cucumbers, carrots, apples, and an orange for dinner. Not very satisfying, but that’s not really the point when you’re on a diet.
Today I am back on the bandwagon. I had my three bean salad for lunch and am drinking tons of water.
After a ‘weak-end’ of defeat, I am ready to weigh in.

Monday January 30, 2012

Weight: 136.0

Not too shabby, if I do say so myself. I gained a couple of pounds, but that was to be expected. I just need to knuckle down and be good for a while. I am only ten pounds away from my goal weight! And having seen 134, if only for the briefest of moments, it gives me hope that it will not be hard to achieve again in the near future.
Oh! and good news!!!! When we went out to dinner Saturday night and then out to the clubs, I was able to fit into my skinny jeans!!!!! I will take the small victories when they come!
Last year, I was attempting to keep track of my weight and to track my weight loss. This was at the peak of my heavy weight. I am thinking about finding those numbers and comparing them to where I am now. It would be interesting to see how many inches I have lost in addition to the pounds. I love seeing results! (because not seeing them is the single most depressing thing in my world).
I need to get back to my water drinking. Stay active, stay healthy, and don’t give up!

January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T14:48:00.001-08:00

It’s been a while since I blogged, so I just thought that I would check in and let my few, yet dedicated readers know how things are going.
Today is Day Six of my juice fast. I started on Wednesday, January 18th. I was afraid that it would be boring, tiresome, and that I would pretty much hate my life, at least for the first three days. Turns out it’s not as bad as I thought it was going to be.
After watching the documentary, Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead, I found myself contemplating whether this sort of diet could work for me. I am not one to go out and try all the different diet pills, appetite suppressors, or weight loss/exercise machines. But I had been stuck at 140-141 lbs. for so long that I wondered if anything could do the trick to help get the weight off. And heck, I already had a juicer.
*Disclaimer. I know that I am not “Fat”. I know that I am in a healthy weight range for my height. But I also know that I could be better. I can be healthier. I can feel better… healthier.
So I decided to give it a try. A few nights before, I went to their websites, www.fatsickandnearlydead.com and www.jointhereboot.com . I discovered that they have a few different programs to choose from, each one varying in length and intensity. I also found that the programs would allow me to actually EAT fruits and vegetables, not just juice them. The website said that I need a week to prepare. that I was going to have to get my body used to the idea of not having everything that it wanted. In preparation mode, I would need to drink more water, cut out processed and junk foods, and no more soda. I had most of this already done thanks to the strict organic diet I was already on. So… I decided not to wait out the ‘prep week’ and started the very next day.
The only bad thing is—there aren’t very many recipes out there that sound very good. The great thing is that if you don’t like a particular fruit or vegetable that a recipe calls for, you can substitute something else that you do like, or skip it all together. It’s all going to be one thick juice anyway. Most of the things I have made haven’t been too disgusting… except that one I made the other day…… Broccoli, ginger root, and garlic are things to avoid for sure! Oh, and I have pretty much come to the conclusion that unless it is smothered in something like peanut butter or ranch dressing, celery is the devils vegetable. No matter how much I try to cover up the taste of the celery with something else, I always end up with a celery aftertaste. Yuck.
All in all, it’s working out really well. I juice in the morning, meet Michael for lunch and have a spinach salad covered in peas, mushrooms, red kidney beans, artichoke hearts, cauliflower, and oil & vinegar, and then juice again at night. In between times I have a tasty treat of almonds and I drink a ton of water.
The results speak for themselves too.

Monday January 23, 2012

Weight: 137.0

I am so excited that I have FINALLY made it lower that 140 lbs.!
(Confession: I was done to 137 on Friday, but I was just so sick of fruits and veggies and I needed a cheat day… so we ordered in a pizza and I had four slices! It was just the best treat ever after not having real food in days. I only went back up to 139, and it took me a couple of days to get back down, but it was totally worth every bite.)
Again, I am lower than 140 lbs.! Not only that, but I can already tell a difference in my appearance. My face is still roundish, but no longer ‘chubby’ looking. The love handles above my hips are starting to recede, and both my watch and ring are no longer cutting off my circulation (My biggest fear was that I was going to get so big that I would have to stop wearing my wedding ring. There were days were I couldn’t have taken my ring off if I had wanted too… I was just that bloated. Ugh. Makes me sick to even write that out). Even my arms, wrists, elbows look slimmer to me, and I can start to see my hip bones again.
So, my next challenge becomes… How long do I do this juice thing? I have pretty much decided that I don’t want to do it for the full 30 or 60 days that the two gentlemen did in the documentary, but I am unsure of how long this will be appropriate for me. In talking with my husband, I have decided that I should continue to juice/eat fruits and veggies for as long as it takes for me to get down to my goal weight of 125 lbs. Most of the programs on the website suggest that you continue on the juice diet from anywhere from five days, to a week and a half, to two weeks. I am on day 6 with 12 lbs. to go. If I continue to lose a pound a day (without any more disastrously glorious cheat days) , I should be there in another 10 days. Right on schedule.
Oh, and just so that you know, I did see my physician before starting this thing and he gave me the thumbs up. It’s a good thing to talk to your doctors in the know, especially when you have any kind of medical condition (thyroid issues in my case).
I hope you are having as much success as I am. Keep up the hard weight loss work!

Starting 2012

2012-01-03T16:37:00.001-08:00

It’s official. New year, new start, old goal. Losing weight seems to be everyone and their dog spot’s new years resolution, so I pride myself that this has been a long term goal of mine. I knew that it would be challenging during the holidays, but especially so because Michael and I were going to be on the road for most of the past two weeks. I am ready to ‘officially weigh in’ for the start of the new year.

Tuesday January 3

Weight: 141.6

Wooohoooo!!!! I thought for sure I was going to weigh a million pounds heavier (ok… maybe just 145). I am so excited that I held my own and didn’t gain any more weight on this trip! Of course this is only true because I still tried to make good food choices while we were gone (little to no carbs), ate only healthy snack foods while in the car that we brought from home (including raw nuts, fresh fruit, beef jerky), and drank a LOT of water.
Now that I think about it… I probably would weigh a little bit less than I do now, except I totally binged on New Years Eve. Good thing I kept myself in check while on our trip, or my fear of weighing 145 would be a reality. The trip wasn’t all a bed of roses…but more on that later.
Woohoooo!!!! I am still so excited that I survived the holidays with my initial weight intact.
Now that all the fun and games are over, I am ready to get back to the grindstone. The only problem is going to be everyone else who decided to wait to kick start their diets after the new year will be clogging up my gym! Guess it will be time to exercise outside for a while and forgo the elliptical for a while, or try going at an unconventional time… like 11 am or something.
This is what the game plan is starting to look like:

Back to the diet…. few to no carbs, and organic unprocessed foods.
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
Lots and lots of water

My friend and I are thinking about taking a martial arts/self defense class together starting in February, and I am so excited. Exercise with a purpose other than losing weight! Got to love that.
Also, I just watched this documentary called, “Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead.” Very interesting account of two men’s journeys to health using juice dieting. I’m not one of these people that goes out and tries all of these extreme diets, but this one looked interesting to me. I won’t be doing it for the 30 or 60 days that these guys did… but I am thinking about doing a 10-14 day juice fast, just to try it and see. You can bet that I will be documenting my progress on this blog. But I won’t be starting anything like that until after my birthday this weekend.
Other than that, life is good, and I am looking forward to getting back in to the full swing of things.

Week 2 Stats

2011-12-12T10:02:00.001-08:00

Monday Dec. 5th

Weight: 141.0

Days worked out (in CAPS): M | t | w | th | f | sa | s

Well, this week was pretty crappy in terms of the workout regime, and it shows. There are no excuses, although I found plenty everyday except Monday. *sigh*

I will go on to say that I haven’t been feeling very well this week, and it’s hard to want to even go to the gym when Aunt Flo is in town. But that being said, I could have done better. I could have at least kept up on my water drinking goal… I am pretty sure I failed miserably. And the candy at the movies on date night didn’t help my numbers much either. Dang it!

Okay, it’s time to regroup. This week is the last week I have to hit the gym (hard) before we leave for our trip to Vegas/LA for the Christmas break. We will be away from the gym for two weeks! so I had better make this week count.

I hope those of you with workout/weight loss goals are doing better than I did last week. If not, let’s get back into this game together!

My Husband

2011-12-07T10:04:00.001-08:00

I am so lucky to be married to my husband. He is constantly surprising me with his generosity and his big heart. He makes me want to be a better person through the example that he sets for me.

Every year, the coworkers on his team get together and pitch in to buy clothes/toys to help a family in need. At least they used to on his old team. And every year, my husband budgets some money from our Christmas spending for this cause. This year he is on a new team, and it was uncertain whether or not this new team would continue the tradition. Still, the money is set aside for that purpose.

Yesterday I discovered that a friend of mine from high school (childhood, really) is struggling to make ends meet. She is a single mom of two girls, a student getting ready to graduate with her bachelors degree, and plans (hopes) to go on to grad school, as her anthropology degree isn’t really valid in the workplace without a masters. But the bills are piling up, the was an error discovered in her financial aid which she will have to pay back, and she has no money for her girls for Christmas.

I asked my husband if there was any news regarding his ‘work family’ and the money to be spent helping them out. I asked if there wasn’t going to be a family this year, if I could make a suggestion. I told him about my friend and her Christmas plight, and asked if we could find a way to help out. He asked me how much money I thought should go toward this friend of mine. Knowing that my husband is very money conscious and a stickler for following the budget, I told him that I just wanted to give each girl a little something to have on Christmas morning, and that the money budgeted out for his ‘work family’ would be enough. He told me no, that it wasn’t enough. He then proceeded to suggest an amount that far exceeded my initial proposal.

Every time I think about his words I get teary eyed and cry. My husband truly is a wonderful, remarkable man with such a big heart. He is such a good example of what this Christmas season is all about and I am so glad that I can call him mine.

Week 1 Complete!

2011-12-05T14:25:00.001-08:00

Last week I started my new workout regime. See the details of the decision here on my new page titled, “The Battle of the Bulge” (for obvious reasons).

I started this thing on Wednesday Nov. 30th. There is no significance to the date or the day of the week. I simply needed to get in and get started. I know myself well enough to know that if I had waited for a ‘fresh start’ and waited until the following Monday to get to it, I would have found another excuse to put it off even more, or have had someone talk me out of it. I’m easy that way. Wednesday is just as good a day as any, right?

So here are my first stats:

Wednesday Nov. 30th

Beginning Weight: 142.6

(full disclosure in keeping with the Bridget Jones theme!) Again, I told you this was the heaviest I’ve ever been, so don’t judge me too harshly.

Monday Dec. 5th

Weight: 140.0

Days worked out (in CAPS): m | t | W | TH | f | SA | s

Remember that I said I was going to exclude weekends? I decided that I was going to do so because I didn’t want to get too burned out from working out every single day, plus I figured if I kept Sat and Sun open, I could use them for backup days in case I missed a weekday (as seen above). Hopefully this next week we will see all of the first five days in CAPS. That is the target.

And I just have to brag a little bit…. I actually went and worked out twice on Wednesday last week. I was a little bit excited about the start of my healthier lifestyle, and I really wanted to get it jump started. I’d say I have succeeded.

I have also heard that many people only weigh themselves once a week or once a month so that they can see the progress more easily. I guess there is so much fluctuation from day to day that it can just be down right depressing. I am still debating what I want to do in this area. I think I may be too curious to only do it once a week, even though I know I may get burned doing it. I think maybe I’ll weigh myself whenever, but only record it once a week on Monday mornings. Yep, sounds good to me.

More thoughts include eventually getting to the point where I put up some measurements. We all know that muscle is more dense than fat, so even though my weight is staying the same, I could be losing inches. Or maybe I could do some sort of chart to monitor the progress. Hmmmm, I will have to get this thought more thinking time.

Now I just have to get through the next week. Wish me Luck!

My Problem

2011-12-02T12:44:00.001-08:00

Lately I have had many thoughts that I would like to share with the world (okay, world is a stretch. How about my world of friends and family?). The only problem I have is that I am ALWAYS away from my laptop when the urge to write strikes me. I was at the gym yesterday and I had a brilliant thought! I had the following conversation in my head:

Me: “Oh, now that would be cool to write about. Why is it that all my brilliant ideas come when I am no where near my computer?!”

Me: “You’re right, this would be a great topic. Why don’t you just remember to write about it later? Just remember that this is something you want to write about and the next time you are close to your laptop, just type it up!”

Me: “Brilliant. I like the way you think. I just have to remember this topic for later. I have a pretty good memory. It should be that hard to remember, right?”

Me: “Right. Now get refocused on the workout, please. I want to get back down to my fighting weight, and I have a long way to go. Oooo! This is a great workout song!”

Needless to say, I did not remember what it was I wanted to write about. Maybe someday I’ll remember what it was I wanted to write about and when I do, you’ll be the first to hear about it. Er, ah, be the first to read it.

It’s a Brand New Week!

2010-11-09T13:04:00.001-08:00

It’s the beginning of a new week, have you wrote to Sister Faith Peters yet? I will confess that I haven’t, but it is on my to-do list for today. Remember that you can always send her an email-letter via www.dearelder.com.

I registered for my first graduate studies class last night and I am really excited! It’s called Policy and Politics for Educational Leaders. It may sound boring to some, but I am really looking forward to it.

I got a hold of my Grandpa’s WWII stories on DVD and my next project will be making copies for anyone who is interested. I might just have to make about 20 copies just to make sure I cover my bases.

Life has been pretty slow for me these days. Michael has been sick the last two weeks and I have tried not to get it… but I think I failed because I have been feeling really run down the last couple of days. I hope I don’t get it…that would be a long two weeks!

We did go to a friends house to watch the BSU game last Saturday. It was fun to hang out and visit with friends, but truthfully, I would like it a lot more if I didn’t know we were going to win. I hope next year will be more challenging now that BSU will be in a new sports division. Aside from that, it was fun to hang out with friends that we haven’t seen in a long time. I have told them all that next time we will have to get together at our place for poker & billiards, now I just need to pick a night to do it!

I made myself a list of things I wanted to get done today. Let’s see how it goes!

~~Dishes~~
Replace Headlight
Write to Faith
Vacuum Upstairs
Dust Upstairs
Wash Upstairs Windows
Clean Master Bath
Clean Guest Bath
Laundry – Guest Sheets/Halloween costumes/Sleeping bags
Dust Master Bedroom
Email teachers about volunteering
Make Copies of Grandpa Ralph’s War Stories
Poo Duty – outside and litterbox

On a more fun note, I went to walmart yesterday and picked up a curler set. I tried it out this morning and it worked! I just need to remember to use hairspray next time and to try not to brush the curls out (this is my ultimate downfall, yet I do it EVERY TIME). Before I went to Walmart, I stopped by the local Sally Hansen Beauty Supply Store and the lady there let me in on a little secret. It’s a consentrated alcohol based product that keeps your hair super curly. It’s the stuff old ladies have put in their hair when they go to the salon once a week. One use keeps your hair curled for days! I got a little sample bottle for a dollar, and I can’t wait to try it out.

There has been talk about my sister, Kt, making the eight hour drive to WA to visit our other sister, Jen. I hope she goes because that means that I would get to go to. It’s kind of up in the air right now.

Plans are being made for our trip over the Christmas break and the more I research it, the more I am getting excited about it. We are going to be spending Christmas in Cancun and New Years in LA. I have never been to Mexico, so this will be a first for me. And last time we spent New Years in LA, we spent it with Friends and a repeat holiday party is in the works!

I realize that these are all random thoughts, but this is my life lately. Hope you all are doing well!

Up To

2010-11-01T13:24:00.001-07:00

I found this in my draft section of Windows Live Writer. It was supposed to be a list of things I could blog about during Sept and Oct. Ha! Best laid plans, right? Well, all of these things really did happen, which is why I have been so busy and haven’t posted in a r e a l l y l o n g t i m e.

What have I been up to lately? Tons.

Highlights:

Camping at Moose Creek and learning to fly fish [Yes, I did learn how to fly fish!]

Substitute teaching off and on for the teachers at ‘my old school’

Acceptance into the Educational Leadership Masters Program at the University of Idaho (and all that it entails, including figuring out how to pay for it)

Beginning to work out again… oiy.

Being with family (trips to Redfish, Faith through temple, Myron’s court of honor, babysitting for Katie)

SAN DIEGO! (again)

Current household projects:

Digital Family Albums (ever ongoing)

Patching up front section of lawn

Warranty on Siding

Fall Cleaning! (Cleaning windows, sweeping cobwebs, washing walls, going through office/closets)

Organizing the Garage (maybe someday)

Sister Faith Peters

2010-11-01T13:19:00.001-07:00

I just sent a letter to my sister, Faith, using www.dearelder.com . It’s pretty sweet because it’s like sending an email, but they print it out and put it in their mailbox like a regular letter. That way, missionaries don’t have to wait until P-day to check their email, and you don’t have to spend time sitting down and writing everything out with pen on paper. Just type it up, press send, and Wah-la! Your missionary has got mail!

I do like the old school way of doing things though (can’t send pictures that way), so I got her snail-mail address and wanted to share just in case you know her and would like to send her some encouragement and a piece of home.

Sister Faith Peters
Mailbox #141
Indo-Jak 1229
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793

If you would like to send her a quick something using dearelder.com, you will need to set up an account. It’s quick and only need your name, address, and email. They ask for a donation (they send your letters for free) but if you want to give at another time, that is also possible. You will also need her mailbox number (#141) and her estimated departure date. I called the MTC mailroom and found out that they have her listed as leaving on December 27th. They also have some fun care package stuff, so feel free to browse the site.

She must be super busy getting adjusted to life at the MTC as a missionary, but I know that any letters, emails, and messages will be well received. And she would LOVE pictures… so don’t hesitate to send one or two her way.

Later today I will be getting her Letter and Package addresses for when she is in Jakarta, but we won’t have to worry about that until after Christmas.

Love to all, and thanks for supporting Faith as she serves the Lord and the people of Indonesia!

I Heart JanSport

2010-09-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

I am a JanSport backpack. My human counterpart purchased me at Costco before her Junio year of High School in the summer of 2000. We finished high school together and I went with her to her first year of college at Brigham Young University of Idaho. I was there with her when she moved across state to Boise and began a new journey. We eventually went back to school together and I was so proud when we finished 5 years later with BA in Elementary Education. But it wasn't all serious school work. We went on many foreign adventures too. We went on our first trip to Jamaica together, and I was there for the return trip the next year when she was married.
That was only the beginning. Since then, I have been to Cayman Brac; Bonaire; and Utila, Honduras with her. I have always been intrusted to carry the important stuff--passports and snorkel mask, as well as inflight entertainment like her iPod, book, and magazines. We have also gone on countless road and camping trips and attended many family get togethers, together. After her Husband, I am her constant companion. It should come to no surprise then that I accompanied her on her frist trip to San Diego. What happened on that trip, however, shocked us both.
While going through the security checkpoint, the TSA agent decided to take a second look at my contents. It was then that he did the unspeakable. He broke me.
To be honest, I had contracted "zipper disease" sometime before, but my human was well aware of my precarious position and knew to be gentle with me. The TSA agent was rough and frankly didn't care. We were heart broken. We were not sure of the implications of that single action that day. Would this be the end of our travels and adventures together? We were frightened at the posibility. Somehow we managed to make it back from SD. I was emptied and put aside. It was then that it hit us both...I was not going to be going to Germany with my human. She had been looking forward to this trip her entire life, and here it was staring at us only a couple of months away. Even though my human would agree, I felt like a failure.
She went without me. It was the hardest thing for both of us, but we both new it was the right thing to do. I fully expected her to replace me upon her arrival. What she did instead took my breath away. She boxed me up and sent me away.
What I didn't know was that she had done some research on the internet and found that while 'zipper disease' is considered a result of normal wear and tear, JanSport will repair it if possible, or replace the pack if they can't. Could they really fix me up as good as new? I kept my straps crossed for good luck.
Two weeks later, I returned to my human in better shape than I had ever been in. My new zipper is bigger, thicker, and stronger than any of my previous zippers and I am confident that it will last a lot longer than my original zipper.
Now that my human and I have been reunited, we are closer than ever. We are ready to take on the world! (again) and are currently enjoying our second trip to San Diego. No TSA agent can keep this pack down!

15 Miles!

2010-09-27T10:15:00.001-07:00

Michael and I have been trying to be more active now that our injuries are healed. They are pretty much as good as they are going to get, anyway. The tough part is that it has been over a year since we exercised on a regular basis, and getting back into the routine is KILLING us! (well, me at least) One of the things that we have been wanting to do all summer but never found the time to do was take a good long bike ride on the greenbelt. For those of you not familiar with the Boise region, the greenbelt is a path that runs along the Boise River (on both sides of the river in most sections). The greenbelt has always been a special thing for us because when we first lived together, the greenbelt was right outside our apartment door!

Back in the day, we used to ride our bikes to the local subway, grab a foot long veggie to split, then ride to one of the local ponds. We’d go for a swim, eat dinner, and then we’d ride home. So last week we decided we’d be nostalgic and recreate the fun!

It was a nice ride on our new comfort bikes that we got at the beginning of this summer. We got a foot long Subway BLT, then started pedaling at our old apartment complex. We managed to make it all the way to Julia Davis park which is across from the Boise State campus. We stopped for lunch and a rest, then boogied on back to the truck. By the time it was all said and done, our trip meters counted a total of 15 miles! No one was more shocked that I was!

I guess it just goes to show what a good bike can do! My old one was one that we bought at a pawn shop and didn’t really fit me. Plus, it always hurt my back bending over to reach the handle bars. My new bike is a cross between a mountain bike and a beach cruiser, so it has the handle bars that let you sit up and front/rear shocks! Plus it’s yellow. Gotta love it.

Anyway. Michael and I are getting back into an aggressive exercise routine (ya know.. because my 15 lbs by Sept 1 didn’t happen….. didn’t even get close). If you are ever in the Boise Area and want to go for a ride, let us know! The 15 mile round trip greenbelt ride is a beautiful one!

Hypochondria? I think not.

2010-07-27T14:01:00.001-07:00

As a reward for being such a good girl and getting my blood drawn, I went to the mall and got my haircut. Then I went to the bookstore in the hopes of finding a good read for our trip to Germany. Instead, I ended up browsing the shelves of books with a friend and talking about all of the books that we had read, which ones we liked, and which ones we hated.

I was in the poetry section when I got a call on my cell from my doctor’s office. I was afraid that they were going to yell at me for waiting so long after my physical to get my blood drawn or to tell me that because of the wait, there was going to be issues with my insurance coverage.

Nope, they were calling me to tell me my test results. Gadzooks! I had just had it drawn four hours earlier. I guess it pays to draw at the lab where they actually do the tests! They don’t have to send it out, wait for the tests, then send the results back to the office. They just do it all.

Well, my lipid panel was great. Good and bad cholesterols were at normal levels, liver and kidney functions were good with no infections, no anemia, and my triglycerides were normal also. The only thing was my TSH levels were too low which meant that I have an underactive thyroid and that the doctor wanted to put me on meds.

TSH is the thyroid-stimulating hormone that basically controls your metabolism. Other symptoms of Hypothyroidism include:

Being more sensitive to cold
Constipation (X)
Depression (X)
Fatigue or feeling slowed down (X)
Heavier menstrual periods (X)
Joint or muscle pain (X)
Paleness or dry skin
Thin, brittle hair or fingernails
Weakness (X)
Weight gain (unintentional) (X X X)

As you can see, I had myriad symptoms. I felt achy all over like I was coming down with the flu for weeks at a time. I was cranky, irritable, and likely to lash out at anyone standing too closely (My poor husband has been such a wonderful support. Thank you, Honey, for not dumping me out on the street for the tuna vs. peanut butter conversation. I would have totally understood if you had).

The bad news is that I have to take a pill every morning, I can’t eat for 30 minutes after I take my pill, AND I have to have my blood retested in 5 weeks to make sure my dosage is correct. BLAH! I would be more upset about the blood thing except that I found my own Miracle Max.

My sister was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism five years ago at the age of 27. I am 26 1/2. Having many of the symptoms, being nearly the same age as she, and being really in-tune with my body, I figured something was up. I wasn’t really caught off guard when the call came in. Sometimes I feel a little guilty that I don’t feel bad, sad, upset about having this condition. Even a week later, I am okay with it. At least it’s not cancer or heart disease (my biggest fear) and it’s something that is very easily treatable.

I am glad that it is not all in my head. Sometimes I worry that when I don’t feel good, I am making it all up and the doctors are just going to tell me I’m fine and I will have to live with and battle the cranky mean person I’ve become. That’s just not fun for anybody. I am also glad that it helps explain why I have had trouble losing weight. I have been taking my meds, working out, and watching what I eat. Here are the NEW results:

July 26, 2010 – 138.0 lbs FINALLY! A week that didn’t start at 140!

July 27, 2010 – 137.8 lbs. Now that’s progress!

The only other thing that I hate about this thyroid thing is that I feel like a bad cliché. “No, I’m not lazy, I am fat because I have a thyroid problem.” Oiy.

I used to think I was a hypochondriac until I realized that I ended up having everything I was afraid I had. Double Oiy.

Miracle Max

2010-07-27T12:35:00.001-07:00

So, I went to the hospital to finally have my blood work done. I was a very brave girl and went by myself to the phlebotomy lab at St. Luke’s hospital in Meridian. I was really nervous sitting in the waiting room by myself and thinking of all of the horrible blood drawing experiences of my past. Then a gentleman in scrubs and a white lab coat called my name.

He took me into a little cubby with a curtain and and asked me to have a seat. “Actually, it would really be a better idea if I lay down.” We moved down a couple of cubbies. I told him how horrible I was at getting my blood drawn and how I might cry, but that it had nothing to do with him. “ Yah right,” he said, “I have been told that before.” I told him I might get woozy or even throw up. He came right back with, “I like a challenge.” I couldn’t believe this guy’s confidence. “Good, because I am it.”

He checked both arms for a good vein (which was hard because even he said that I had small veins) and settled in on my right arm. Then he said something that made me smile. “Let’s use something really mellow.” I liked this guy already. “Do you want me to tell you what I’m doing, or just do it?”

Have mercy. “Just do it. I don’t want to know what’s going on.”

“Let’s talk about you. What are your hobbies?” Wow, did I draw a blank. I’m not really a hobby kind of person, but I liked where he was going with this. When he asked me what I did for a living, I told him I didn’t have a job. “Good,” he said, “Jobs are overrated.” Huh… did I really want to hear that from a guy whose job it was to stick needles into people’s arms?? I let that one go. I told him that I graduated with a degree in Elementary education and that I was going to be a teacher, if I could ever find a job. He said I was brave … “the little monsters.” hehehehehe. I liked this guy more and more.

He asked if I had kids, and I told him no. He replied that he didn’t either. “Good,” I said. It’s nice to find people with whom I have that in common. (Somewhere in this conversation, I felt a poke, but no big deal. I instantly put my mind off of it and back on the conversation).He told me that he couldn’t see himself with kids because he watches his nieces all the time. He has a hard time with the singing and the pink and purple stuff everywhere. That made me smile. I said that I adored my nieces.

“You’re done,” he announced as he wrapped the cotton ball with the self sticky flex tape around my arm. It was pink and made me wonder if he really thought I was a pink kind of girl, or if that was just the color they were using that day. I like to think that he picked it out just for me.

“Are you sure?” I asked. “Because most of the time I hear that, people have missed the vein or something. That was too easy.”

“Nope, I’m sure. You’re done. You can just get up and go, or hang out a little bit. Which ever you are most comfortable with.”

I didn’t know what to do. Usually I have to sit there and wait for the dizziness to pass and ask for a candy or juice or water. I almost asked for a candy, but then I had to remind myself that I was fine and that asking would only make me look more like a five year old (I’m 26 years old, for crying out loud!). Meanwhile, my inner five-year-old was doing cartwheels.

I was elated! I had just had my blood drawn and I didn’t get woozy, dizzy, lightheaded, clammy, and I didn’t cry, vomit, or pass out. What luck! I was feeling bold, so I told him, “I am married, but I don’t mind saying that I am in love with you right now.”

He chuckled, “Usually it’s only the little kids that tell me that. Hearing it from you is one of the biggest compliments I’ve ever gotten.” I felt like kissing the man. Clearly, he did not understand the miracle he just performed.

I can’t be certain, but I may have been skipping as I left the lab. Heaven know I felt like it!

Bad news is…I don’t know who he is! I can’t request him next time! Curse my inner five-year-old for speaking to strangers and not asking for his name. I only can hope that he will be working next time I go in (oh yes, will I be going there next time) and/or they keep record of who draws for whom at the lab.

I hope, I hope, I hope…

Until then, he has become my Miracle Max!

What the Heck is Up?? (besides my weight, that is...)

2010-07-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

I have not been weighing myself everyday, but even a weekly weighing would drive me crazy. Here are the latest stats:

Friday, July 9, 2010 -- 138.6 lbs
Monday, July 11, 2010 -- 140.0 lbs
Tuesday, July 12, 2010 -- 138.2 lbs

Ugggghh! If I only weighed myself once a week, I would never see any progress! I am stuck! I have never had issues losing weight before and I have been doing really well with my eating habits (okay, so the chips and salsa I had at 1:30 am Saturday morning were probably a bad idea, but still!). I even worked out an extra 30 mins last week in an attempt to strengthen and tone my arms. (I NEVER thought I'd see the day when I couldn't do push-ups.... tsk, tsk tsk!)

I am beginning to think that this is something bigger than me. So, I'm going to have my bloodwork done and see if the answer is there. I just hope I can conquer my fear of needles long enough to get it done. Any prayers, good thoughts, or sunshine and rainbows sent on my behalf would be well received. Seriously, my phobia is so extensive that the last time I tried to have my bloodwork done I ended up with blurred vision and a migraine the entire day. That was back at the end of March, and I still haven't gotten the order filled.

It's tomorrow or never!

Total Frustration!

2010-07-08T09:54:00.001-07:00

July 8, 2010 – 140.0 lbs.

Uggghhhh!!! I feel like a friggin’ blimp! My 30 min walk yesterday with the hubby, salad for lunch, and even a low carb dinner last night didn’t help me after the fourth of July weekend in McCall. Which totally isn’t fair anyway because even though I was eating some starchy foods, I was also really active. We swam in a hot spring pool and the lake, and took a couple of different hikes around the state park. I even made sure to drink a ton of water since we bought a huge case of bottled water before we left.

I just want my efforts to be acknowledged and rewarded!

Looks like I am back to where I started—and feeling larger than ever. : (

Huh, imagine that!

2010-07-07T13:45:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a good day for the weight lose challenge. I drank a lot of water, had a humongous salad for lunch, and took the puppy for a 30 min walk, and then did some work in the yard. Here are the results after just one day:

July 2, 2010 – 137.2 lbs.

Almost a pound in one day! I am really liking these results and Sasha really loved our walk together. I am confident that our walks together will continue to be a tradition, so long as the numbers continue to move in the right direction!

Just Call Me Bridget

2010-07-01T11:02:00.001-07:00

So, last summer I broke my foot and ankle. It was a crappy time trying to get everything done and stay on track for graduation, plus it just plain sucked. The worst part was sitting around all the time and getting fat. And by fat… I mean that I gained at least 10 lbs. last winter. Even after we had both gotten our boots off and started physical therapy (heck, even after we finished physical therapy) it was difficult to find workout activities that didn’t just kill us. Last winter was a five letter word that begins with B. Uuuuuugggggghhhhh! I just feel so large!

Just to put things in perspective, at the age of 22 when I was married, I weighed a whopping 125 lbs. Four years later, I am now 15 lbs heavier. That’s an average weight gain of 4 lbs a year! At this rate, I could be close to 200 lbs by the time I’m 40. Sorry, but that is JUST NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!!! In an effort to not take over the entire world with my prophetic weight gain, I have a plan.

The goal: Lose 15 lbs. (I would be happy with 10 but am pushing for 15).

The deadline: Sept 1.

Participants: Michael and Jill (feel free to join us!)

So far we have been watching what we eat. This includes eating few carbs, No soda (unless it is diet made with splenda), more water, and no snacking after dinner (unless it is a fruit or vegetable) . We do allow ourselves 1 splurge a week when we can have something yummy as a reward for being so good. *I guess this means last night’s birthday cake with the granddaughter was it…sigh.*

We have tried to be more active during the day. This one is tough with the leg injuries in finding low impact physical activities. Michael has been doing really well because they have a mile long path that winds around the campus of his work. If he has time, he takes 30 mins and walks the mile. “Walking the mile, walking the mile, dead man walking the mile.” *bonus points if you can name the movie!*

Me?? That’s a different story. So much of my daily projects involve the indoor setting. Grrr. No excuses! My plan is to try to take the puppy out for a 30 min walk everyday. She deserves it… she’s a good doggy. Or go for bike rides with Michael after work. Something. I have to do something different. So far, Michael has lost like 5 lbs. Me? I think I actually gained weight the first week. Not fair.

I am going to start doing my 50 sit-ups (at least) every night, since most of my weight needs to be lost around my middle, and some arm toning exercises with Tony Horton and my Television. That’s a good start for now. I’m sure I will ramp it up after I get into a nice routine.

So here’s how it looks:

July 1, 2010 -- 138 lbs

(Yay! Down 3 lbs since the start about 3 weeks ago! 1 lb a week? are we kidding? I seriously need to be more aggressive.)

Okay, I have to get off this computer so I can take the pup for a walk. Or maybe I’ll ride my new bike…but that’s the topic of tomorrow’s blog.

Couch Potato

2010-06-30T11:04:00.001-07:00

I’ve been on the blog hiatus. (Seriously, does this surprise you? Do you know me yet?) : ) Just kidding of course (no, not really).

Last weekend Michael took two vacation days and we went on a four day campout to Deadwood Res., Idaho. This has become our favorite place to go camping. It’s a really hairy drive up a dirt road, so most people shy away from it. That’s okay, we hate crowds. Which is why you will never see me at the mall after thanksgiving. But I digress… In our attempts to further lessen the amount of people we encounter on the Res, we have made it a tradition to go the weekend before the 4th of July. Well, we have always ended up going the weekend before, but this year it became official. From now on, if you ever wonder if we have plans the weekend before the 4th, the answer is ‘Yes.’

As always, the fishing was good, the water was high, and living was easy. On the downside, it was a rather buggy year (although I only got one mosquito bite), it rained two nights out of the four (our rain fly leaked), and the water was freezing! Usually the water is warm enough to be comfortable as well as refreshing. With the cooler temps so late in the year, the water was down right chilly! Not to mention all of the pine pollen that covered the lake… that was not so much fun to swim in.

All in all, it was a great trip. The husband and I had some ‘us’ time away from the hustle and bustle, and the puppy wore herself out to the extreme (she slept for two solid days after we got home). Michael and I read a book together called Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. Great historical fiction piece that takes place in China in the early 1800s when they used to practice footbinding. It is a great tale of the possible depths of friendship.

On another note, Michael and I have stopped watching TV almost entirely. Right now we have basic cable, but we are considering cancelling it all together. We never turn it on, but are always watching movies instead. Our latest guilty pleasure?

BEHOLD:

Seriously. This has got to be the greatest marriage of technology and entertainment. Michael’s buddy begged us to switch from our XBOX to the playstation and promised endless online matches of Tiger Woods golf. We finally caved after the XBOX did it’s red rings of death for the third time, and upgraded to the game console/blu ray player. The same week it was hooked up to the internet and ready to take on the golf challenge. That was 2 years ago, and the friend still hasn’t hooked up his PS3 to the web. His loss is our gain, however, as we discovered that we could instantly stream movies, documentaries, and TV series for our viewing pleasure via the PS3 and Netflix. And FYI: Those of you with Wii’s are also capable of such grandeur.

Yep, definitely cancelling the cable. Why watch TV when you can get whole series on DEMAND!! It satisfies my craving for instant gratification!!!

I like to watch old Carey Grant movies or juvenile movies that remind me of my childhood while I fold laundry, pay bills, and balance the checkbook. That way, I get my fix and Michael doesn’t get bored. Together, we are currently LOST : )

Yep, I’m turning into a regular couch netflix potato. Which is not helping my weight loss goal for this summer, but that’s tomorrow’s blog topic.

The Elevators Hate Me

2010-06-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am currently writing from the US Grant Hotel in San Diego, CA. Michael was going on a business trip and invited me to tag along. Okay, so I always give him crap about how he never takes me and this time he finally caved, but that is beside the point. The point is, here I am in southern California in the fanciest hotel ever. Michael arrived a couple of days earlier to get settled and attend meetings. I, however, arrived early this evening. Michael was in the room watching an instant movie on his laptop via Netflix. We had planned to spend this evening together, but no go. He had a meeting. I was on my own.
After writing a letter to my sister in Stanley, ID on the ornate stationary, I decided that I would check out the outdoor mall across the street. Man, was it super confusing. It was the most twisted maze of a mall that I had ever seen. Somehow I was able to locate the food court (if you could even call it that) and grabbed a bite to eat. Michael had earlier threatened to never take me on another business trip with him if I ordered room service. After an hour of window shopping and getting really lost at the mall, I decided to head back to the hotel.
When I got into the elevator, I inserted my room key (a requirement to access the guest floors) and hit the 6th level button. When I got to my room I discovered that it was being raded by housekeeping. I thought it would be awkward to enter the room with her there, so I turned around and decided to take a look out the balcony by the 6th floor elevator bank. There is this exquisite garden with lush green plants and walking paths. With the housekeeping lady still fluffing our pillows, I figured it was an opportune time to explore. I hopped into the elevator, inserted my room key and pressed the #5 (it looked to be only one floor below me, and if it were two, I would just jump back into the elevator and press #4).
Nothing happened. I tried inserting my key again. Zilch. The elevator knew I wasn't supposed to go anywhere but the sixth floor! Fine. If the sixth floor was the only place I could go, I'd just go and see if the lady was done with my room. I pressed the #6. Nada. The Elevator was punishing me! I panicked. With the elevator doors closed and no where to go, I hit the lobby button. Fine. I'd just try another elevator. Zip. Okay...I was now a victim of an elevator conspiracy.
I had no other choice. I approached the Guest Reception desk. "Um, my key doesn't work in the elevator," I tried to say in my most innocent and confused voice. "Oh. It's probably because you had it next to your cell phone. It seems to demagnify it," the well dressed young man stated. He took the card and stuck it into his machine to reactivate it. For a solid minute, I was terrified. I thought for sure he was about to get a message saying, "BEWARE. This individual was caught trying to access a guest floor other than his/her own. Terminate reservation and have security escort from the premises." Instead, he just handed me back my card and smiled.
The elevators must have decided to give me a second chance, because it was working again. I have now barricaded myself in my room and don't plan to leave it again until I am forced to forage for breakfast. Wish me luck!

Week 10

2010-04-29T18:01:00.001-07:00

This is our cocktail fruit tree. It use to have four different fruit varieties graphed onto one trunk, but that was before our puppy chewed off a few limbs. This limb (not sure which fruit variety it bears) is so pretty with the red and the green contrasting each other. Hooray for even more color in the backyard!

Week 9

2010-04-29T17:38:00.001-07:00

My creeping flox are blooming. Most of the year they are just green, but spring time means color! I like that I have two different varieties. Having two adds even more color to the backyard.

Week 8

2010-04-24T15:12:00.001-07:00

My favorite wee ones.

You may need to click to enlarge and see this photo’s true potential. I love my nephew’s little hound-dog sad face—so cute!

P.S. I'm only 7 weeks behind. Holy cow, do I have some catching up to do!

Week 7

2010-03-25T10:11:00.001-07:00

My four-legged friend. Sometimes she can be so naughty. But then she gives me this face…. ahhh, I love her.

Can you believe that I’m still behind?

2010-03-19T14:14:00.001-07:00

Even with my over-the-top attempts to catch my blog up with the rest of my life, I am still 4 photos behind on my Everyday Beauty challenge. Apparently this is supposed to be week 10.

Yep, I’m sure.

I just checked.

Week 6

2010-03-19T13:54:00.001-07:00

A Toast:

To discovering the everyday things that make you feel beautiful.

Week 5

2010-03-19T13:45:00.001-07:00

I am hoping for Spring because Summer follows soon after. The sooner summer gets here, the sooner my family can enjoy the majestic mountains of Idaho.

Bring on Summer!

Because really, there’s nothing more beautiful than a field full of purple wildflowers with a Sawtooth Mountains backdrop.

Week 4

2010-03-19T13:40:00.001-07:00

I know!!! I’ve been slacking again. (Really, though. Can you honestly say that you’re surprised??) I have a minute or two between composing my professional educator cover letter and finishing an application, so I thought I’d get caught up on some posting.

Currently:

I am hoping for spring’s prompt arrival.

My Talent and New Hobby

2010-03-19T13:27:00.001-07:00

Enough savoring. Here’s the scoop:

I LOVE target shooting. I have found that I am quite talented when it comes to shooting at a target that seems tiny 25 yards away. The target itself is about chest wide with the center X about the size of my thumb nail. Here is Michael with his.

When you shoot from the line, you do it in a standing position. It would be considered cheating if you let any part of your body lean up or rest against anything.

Here is Michael ‘sighting in’ his gun or making sure that his sights on his gun are telling him where the bullets are actually going to hit. If they don’t, they need to be adjusted. Locking it down, like Michael is doing in the next photo, helps to ensure that there aren’t any other variables affecting your aim (say your flabby little arm muscles that you haven’t used in a LONG time).

This is what it looks like from the firing line. My target on this night was the second one from the right.

When I first went to the range and saw how far away it was, I didn’t think I could even hit the big piece of cardboard. I have learned a lot. For example, I learned that each clip holds ten rounds. If a shot is in the ten-ring but is touching the line between the ten and the X-ring, it is considered an X. This is not my best target, but it isn’t too shabby either. This one would be scored at 100 (ten points a shot) with 6 Xs. (100 is considered a perfect score, and if you get the same score as someone else, the Xs serve as a tie breaker. Whomever shoots the most Xs, wins.)

Michael told me that if I ever hit eight shots in the X-ring, that he would buy me ice cream. I’m pretty sure he only said this because he didn’t think I could ever do it. Honestly, I didn’t think I could either. I finally did the other night, but don’t have a picture of that target yet. Maybe next time I’ll post one.

In pursuing my handgun marksmanship, Michael and I attended a workshop with a few friends. We learned a lot about breath control, stance, trigger control, lining up sights, and even what kind of shoes are best for target shooting. I learned a lot and have even had a chance to put some of it into practice. Which is good considering the next step.

Michael and I have signed up on a league team; better known as competition shooting. We shoot once a week for five weeks. Each week we will shoot 5 targets for a total possible point value of 500 points. I am excited to see how well I can do against a bunch of older guys who have been doing this for a long time now. I know I won’t be the best. Some of these guys are really good. However, I think I’ll be able to hold my own (Tuesday’s unofficial score was a 497. Not too bad, eh?)

Maybe the best part about this hobby is the equipment. There is almost nothing more fun than owning your own gun. I love my Browning Buckmark .22. Isn’t it pretty??

Michael even got me a new aluminum barrel from Tactical Solutions here in Boise. The new barrel has helped make this gun even lighter, which makes it easier to hold steady.

Of course, hitting the target is also easier when you have a red-dot ‘scope’. I use the word scope in quotation marks because I think of scopes as magnifiers. Red-dot scopes don’t. They just put a dot where the bullet should go if you hold it steady.

If you live in the Boise area and would like to check it out, take a look at Boise Pistol and Rifle Club on their website, http://www.boiseriflepistolclub.org, and maybe we’ll see you there! Who knows, maybe this is your hidden talent too!

Week #3

2010-03-04T09:56:00.001-08:00

Standing the test of time and aging gracefully are beautiful.

Puppy Manners

2010-02-24T20:02:00.001-08:00

Michael likes to keep his snacks on the floor next to his recliner. Naturally, this area has always been interesting to Sasha. Over time, however, she has learned that there is nothing over there for her and that bad things will happen should she choose to investigate further.

The other day I was sitting on the sofa typing away on my laptop. Sasha was spending a lot of time over near Michael’s chair, so I kept my eye on her just in case. Evidently she found a stray piece of popcorn. Knowing that it was strictly against house rules to eat any of the forbidden snack foods, she picked up the popcorn very gingerly and placed it in the middle of the living room floor. She then proceeded to come over and sit by me. She had the most pleading look in her eyes as she looked from me to the popcorn, and then back again. I could just hear her little puppy voice, “Mom, I know it’s not aloud, but look what I found. It was just laying there asking to be eaten! Pleeeeeeeeeease can I have it?”

Of course I let her eat it; just because she asked so nicely.

First Signs of Spring

2010-02-17T15:16:00.001-08:00

Week 2

Winter is almost over and warmer weather is on the way. My daylilies are sprouting.

PWDA~ Public Written Displays of Affection

2010-02-17T14:56:00.001-08:00

Week 1

The words are beautiful, even if the mode of delivery may not be.

Doesn’t Anybody Read Books Anymore?

2010-02-09T21:42:00.001-08:00

I had two packages to mail today; I was sending one package to my sister for her birthday and the other was our tax paperwork to our accountant in California. The post office on 5 mile road is notorious for its long lines. They even have a long counter down the middle of the waiting area where postal customers can have a moments reprieve from the weight of their packages while they wait.

When I got there, there were about a dozen people in line in front of me. No problem. A while ago I started carrying a novel in my purse for just such an occasion. This week’s selection: Seabiscuit: An American Legend. As soon as I opened it’s cover and found the place where I had left off, I could feel every eye turning and staring at me. Seriously, it was like these people had never seen a person reading a book before.

I know that a lot of things have changed since I was a kid. Technology has changed in leaps and bounds. Now a days there are laptops that can surf the internet at the touch of a button. People can even access it on their cell phones (and everyone has a cell phone—even eight year olds). From the so accessible internet, it is possible to read online or download whole novels. One can even purchase electronic versions of a book to be read on kindles, e-readers, and now there is even the iPad. But never in my wildest dreams did I think that there would come the day when books were an oddity. I thought that nothing could replace the printed word.

Now, I’m not what one would call an ‘avid’ reader. I do read. I read a lot, actually. But I don’t have to read every book I can get my hands on. I can afford to be choosy. But I love books themselves. They each seem to have their own personality. It’s as if each characteristic of it’s outward appearance is a hint of the story that lies just inside the cover.

I love that each book feels differently in my hands. The covers can be smooth, or rough, flashy or even plain. I love the feel of the paper; the texture begging me to turn the pages. Their sturdy spines hold a book together. While a new book’s spine is smooth and flat, an older book’s has creases and has developed a concave shape from being read over and over again. But most of all, I love the smell of books. New books smell fresh; a temptation of the new adventures that await. Old books smell—Heavenly. There’s no other word for it. It’s like a grandparent who has waited for you to come and visit. They invite you to read the story you probably know by heart. It’s the story from a time not so long ago, though it may seem like ages from this hectic electronic world.

I suppose that this could be one of the reasons I could never read any college assignment online. If a professor posted a reading assignment on the internet, I always had to print it out to read it. I know that it’s not very green of me, but the glow of a computer screen could never compete with the look and feel of the printed word.

No, for me, nothing can replace a book.

Touché' Snappy

2010-02-09T16:03:00.001-08:00

In my post about my new found talent, Snappy reminded me that I do ~~like~~ LOVE to write. Which is why I started this blog in the first place. I also LOVE to photograph stuff. (Emphasis on ‘stuff’. I’m not so great at the whole ‘photographing people/portrait’ thing. That is really Michael’s forte).

Which is why I am going to try to join in on the Everyday Beauty challenge. Each week I will try to post a picture of something beautiful. This project brought to you by: Snappy Snippets and originally inspired by this lady.

I just decided that I was going to join in today, so I don’t have a photo for this week, yet. But I’m going to practice my ‘new and not-yet-revealed’ talent tonight, so there is hope.

Medical Insurance

2010-02-09T15:36:00.001-08:00

Last night was spent going over all of our tax documents. Because of the accident, our medical portion of our taxes was astronomical. Thank goodness Michael was there to help me out because I would have been lost.

In going through the paperwork, we discovered that there were some loose ends that needed tying. The hospital was/is still trying to charge me money for the night spent in the emergency room. Fortunately, we have a ER copay of $100 and everything past that is either covered by insurance or is written off as a part of the hospital’s contracted rate with the Insurance Co. They were trying to say that I am responsible for the amount that should be their contracted write-off. I don’t think so!

Apparently, the Orthopedic Surgeon’s office is trying to do the same thing (which is really a shame because I really like the guy). A call to the insurance company was in order.

The gal that I was talking to was really amazing. She put me on call and called both the hospital and told them what was up. Then she got back on the line with me to tell me with whom she had spoken to, and that they had worked everything out and that I should not be receiving any more bills from them. HOORAY! (I love it when companies have such great customer service.) The gal tried to get a hold of the Dr.’s office as well, but had no such luck. She is going to try again tomorrow and then call me a let me know what’s going on.

Michael and I have had United Healthcare ever since we have been together (and Michael has had it longer than that). I have had so many procedures, office visits, etc. over the last 4 years. Of course, no medical procedure/office visit that results in a claim to the insurance company can ever go right. Somewhere between the Dr.’s billing office and the claim reviewer’s computer, something goes awry. I always end up calling and complaining, telling them how, when, and where they screwed up. If they were thinking (hoping) that I would be one of those customers that just pays whatever bills they get in the mail, they have another think coming. Seriously, I have dealt with them so much that I know exactly what I should be paying and when they are pushing their luck. Generally speaking, the reps at UHC are great. They usually apologize and let me know how they are going to fix it and the next things I should expect (and if they don’t, I get a supervisor who will). They are like family.

The sad part is that I am leaving that family. Michael and I have changed insurance this year to Blue Cross/Blue Shield of California. (I know, right? How messed up is that?) While I still get to call my buddies at UHC to tie up all the loose ends from our accident last summer, it won’t be too long before I won’t ever have (get) to call them at all.

It makes me kind of sad.

The good news is that we have a lot of friends who are already using BC/BS and they have all good things to say about it. In fact, one report says that after the accident, one phone call was all it took. They said that they would match up all the bills and claims associated with the accident and coordinate with the liability insurance. How cool is that??

So begins a new relationship. Of course my first step was logging on to BC/BS website and making sure my GYN was a preferred provider. Do you know how hard it is to find a good one of those? Here’s a hint: try having chronic appendicitis for 2 years and having every GYN tell you that you’re nuts and their is nothing she can do for you. When she didn’t give up on me, I knew she was a keeper. And yes, she is a preferred provider.

My second step is finding a Primary Care Physician. Oooo, lucky me.

My New Talent/Hobby

2010-02-07T23:33:00.001-08:00

Note to the Reader: I am about to use the terms “talent” and “hobby” interchangeably. I realize that in the normal world these are two separate thoughts. Not so in the world of this real-life mermaid. I figure that if you have a talent (say, drawing), then you will spend a lot of time drawing because you enjoy it (thus becoming your hobby). And chances are you enjoy it because you’re good at it. Because face it—> No one spends large amounts of their free time doing something that they loathe, unless it’s work or something else obligatory.

Anyway, let the blogging continue:

Growing up I have always had feelings of non-talentedness (and no it’s not a word, I made it up. I even have the little spell checker squiggles underneath it telling me that I’m an idiot). I have never felt like I’ve had much of a talent for anything. Yes, I can play the piano, but not well. I played the clarinet in grade, middle, and high school, but not any better than anyone else. I can’t draw, I can’t sing, and I’m not blessed athletically. I am not funny, I am socially awkward, and I don’t really know how to cheer people up when they are down. I don’t even have the gift of being able to speak more than one language.

So lately (in my post-graduate unemployed-ness) I have tried to get started in a lot of things, trying to finding the hobby that really fits me. I’ve tried Scrapbooking, Quilting, Blogging (ha, we all know how consistent I am with that one!), fishing (although I like fishing, it’s not my calling), and even jogging (well, I tried it out for 1 week and I discovered that I really hate to run). None of these things has really been able to hold my attention for very long.

Currently I have two loves other than Michael and Sasha: photography and scuba diving. I find that I have to have a purpose for me to go out and photograph things. And Scuba diving? Well, I don’t get to do a whole lot of that here in Idaho (I should really hang out with Nate and Melinda more; they try to go as much as they can, where ever they can!)

I had always heard that EVERYONE has at least one talent, but I was beginning to believe I’d missed out on the talent buffet during the creation.

And then I found it.

I knew it was my talent. I haven’t taken any classes or formal training, and yet I am really good at it. I guess you could say that I’m a natural. I love the rush and the way that it makes me feel when I do well. I don’t want to give it away just yet. I just want it to soak in a bit first.

It only took me 26 years to find it.

I’m savoring the moment.

Lately

2010-02-07T22:42:00.001-08:00

Okay, I know. I’ve been slacking. Really slacking. So here’s a really long update of my non-existent progress from the last month.

Graduation

was amazing. It was one of those things. One of those times when you are sitting in your chair thinking, “Can this really be happening to me?” I was so nervous, anxious, excited that I had to consciously tell my hands not to rip my program apart (only because I wanted one as a souvenir). I must have had the biggest, dumbest grin on my face because I was so unbelievably happy that I had finally made it!! Okay, it was probably really because I was in disbelief the entire time. Little ol’ slacker me had finally reached the only goal I have ever set for myself—College Graduation. HOLY COW!!

The best part? (I mean, besides obtaining freedom from undergraduate status and finally feeling like a real grown up)… Having my name read by a local celebrity. I wanted to post a picture of him, but couldn’t find one. Anyhow, he is a player for the Idaho Shakespeare Festival here in Boise. Michael and I attend it religiously ever summer. He’s one of my favorites. And YES, he was the one that read my name at the ceremony! How cool is that?

Note to self: upload video of Graduation

Christmas 2009

This Christmas was spent with Nathan, Melinda and Hadley. We had a great time. We recently bought a Pack n Play, so we had a place for Hadley to sleep.

FYI: If you are family or friend, we have a pack and play now so if you have little ones and you need a place to stay, we have a place for your little one to crash.

I was nervous that Hadley wouldn’t do very well considering that she’s never stayed the night at Grandpa’s house before. She did really well. Melinda turned on some classical music and she went right to sleep.

Christmas tradition dictates that we get new pajamas on Christmas Eve. Hadley looked so cute in her new brown and pink circle jammies. Michael’s only complaint was that the legs of his bottoms were too long. I don’t get it. I think stepping on the heels of your pajama bottoms makes them more comfortable. How about you? Do you have any thoughts on that issue??

Hadley is making her selection from the mountain of gifts:

I needed a butter knife to open a box. Hadley decided that she needed it to open the rest of the presents. It was just too funny.

We really enjoyed having the family over this year and spoiling everyone. Michael’s big gift this year was a new Red/Black Northface Coat. My big gift was a portable DVD player. It came in really handy on our trip to the Dominican Republic.

Trip to the Dominican Republic

Michael works at HP. Every year, HP has a mandatory closure for two weeks over Christmas. We are not winter people and we hate to sit around doing nothing for two whole weeks. So, we have tried to go to warmer places and thaw out. Last year we went down to California and visited Michael’s Dad, best friend (and his new girlfriend and her two girls), and saw the sights. California has always been one of my favorite places to visit. This year we went someplace a lot warmer… The Dominican Republic.

Our resort was an all inclusive, which means that once you get there, everything is paid for. You never have to think twice about meal costs. Not thinking about money makes it so much easier to let go and relax completely. We never left the resort, so we don’t have very many pictures to share this time (you can only take so many pictures of the dining room, swimming pool, and beach), but believe me when I say that we had a great time playing pool volleyball, Ladder golf and Bocce ball. I met a lot of neat people from all over the world. By the way, I am thinking about becoming Canadian just so I can get a direct flight! (it took us 22 hours to get from Boise, to the DR). Our trip took place just 2 weeks before the big earthquake hit Haiti. For those of you who are geographically challenged, the DR and Haiti share the same island. We sent an email to the resort as soon as we heard the news about the quake. Much to our relief they replied that all was well; it just rattled a few dishes.

I wanted to post some pictures of our trip, but alas, they are not on my computer. I’ll have to fix that.

We got back to work as soon as we got back to the states. The very next day I was in the school subbing for Mrs. Bond. She had spent Christmas break in Arizona and got tickets to the Fiesta Bowl. I had a nice three days that week in the classroom that was my home for half of my internship an my student teaching. I missed those kids and thoroughly enjoyed spending my time with them.

Let’s see… what else has happened lately?

I had my 26th birthday. It feels kind of weird. I keep wanting to tell people that I am 27, although I feel younger than I did on my last birthday. We celebrated by going to out to Five Guys Burgers and Fries and then out to the movies for Sherlock Holmes. A week later, we had a combined birthday party with a friend of ours, Frank, whose birthday is five days after mine. It was great to have so many of our friends there to celebrate with us.

Nathan was sworn into the Navy and we were able to go and see it happen. I had never been to one of those before and it was quite an experience. It was a lot of waiting and paperwork. The actual swearing part took only a minute or so. it was the beginning of a new adventure.

Unfortunately, we found out only a few days ago that Nate has torn his Achilles tendon and will not be able to complete basic training, therefore he will not be able to obtain a career in the Navy, at this point . He will return home after the rest of his class completes basic and receives their commissions. We are saddened by this news, but are hopeful for the next adventure to come their way.

The Job Search

is on but there really aren’t any teaching jobs out there just yet. Even though the state of Idaho has announced cut backs in education, I am still hopeful. This area continues to grow and most schools are already at capacity. Everyday I check the school district websites for new job postings. Nothing has popped up, but a lot of school districts start posting in March.

In the mean time, I am putting together a professional portfolio and brushing up on my interview answers. I am really looking forward to having a classroom of my own. Being able to contribute to my marriage financially will also be a big step for me.

So, I hate making long massive posts like this. My goal is to write more often. I am hoping for an every other day basis (at least) but we’ll see how it goes.

Look forward to my post about my new hobby (because that topic deserves a post all to itself).

It’s Getting Closer!

2009-11-10T20:57:00.001-08:00

I love it when I get emails like this. Of course I instantly hit the reply button.

Dear Graduation Candidate:

You are cordially invited to the 2009 Winter Commencement ceremony to be held Friday, December 18, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in The Taco Bell Arena.

In order to ensure that you have a seat at commencement, you must RSVP by Friday, December 4, 2009.

To RSVP, simply REPLY to this e-mail; be sure to include your name and student ID number.

If you do not wish to participate in the ceremony, you do not need to reply.

*** This e-mail is to RSVP for the Commencement ceremony only. ***

[…]

Congratulations on your achievement!

Sincerely,

The Graduation Evaluators

My plan now is to stay extra busy and focused on the last 4 1/2 weeks of student teaching. I must keep Senioritis at bay!

Amsterdam

2009-10-24T11:04:00.001-07:00

I put Michael on a plane today to Amsterdam and he won’t get there sometime after midnight our time. This business trip is so unlike any others because he’s going out of the country. His phone doesn’t work over there, so he borrowed one from work. Only thing is, I can’t call it. He has to call me. It makes me nervous. I don’t like sitting around waiting for phone calls that may or may not come. And then there is the time difference. Being eight hours ahead is going to make that difficult. We are going to have to rely on the internet, Facebook, and emails. I feel like I am in a long distance relationship again and I hate it. The good news is that he will only be gone a week, and he took a big enough suitcase that he will be able to bring back some pretty cool souvenirs back!

Now, what do I want from Amsterdam?

The Next Step

2009-10-23T22:04:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I received the following email:

Dear Jill:

The graduation evaluators have reviewed your undergraduate Academic Advising Report (AAR) for Fall 2009 graduation. It has been determined that you are a valid candidate for graduation. This means you are enrolled in all outstanding requirements during your last semester.

[…]

Sincerely,

Graduation Evaluators

I’m so ready to take this next step!

Observe

2009-10-19T16:49:00.001-07:00

The Principal at the school where I am completing my student teaching is coming in next week to observe me teach a lesson.

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!

Why does this make me soooo incredibly nervous??? I am not afraid to conference with her. I am not afraid of her. I respect her, but she doesn’t necessarily intimate me. Perhaps it’s my fear of rejection. I am terrified that she is going to come in and say that I did everything wrong and that I am the worst teacher she has ever seen! I don’t want her to judge me. Okay, I know that sounds retarded because that’s why she is coming in to observe. But still, this is a scary thing for me. I grew up avoiding such scenarios and now here I am, purposefully inviting this potentially painful situation into my life. WHY?! Oh yeah, I want to graduate and get a job. Then I can invite more principals to come in and do exactly the same thing to me, year after year.

oiy.

The rest of my life, here I come.

Peters’ Family

2009-10-19T16:29:00.001-07:00

My sister-in-law asked if I’d take a photo or two of her family when we were at Grandpa’s house two weekends ago. With the help of Photoshop, these turned out A LOT better than I expected. Please keep in mind that this is the first photoshoot that I have ever done with people… I’m much better at the non-moving, non-breathing, non-squirming subjects. : )

And to prove to you that photographing people really isn’t my thing, take a look at this eye candy: (Snappy, this one’s for you!)

I tease, but I really I love this picture. It tells a story about each one of the people in it. : )

The real family photo is coming soon…

Lately

2009-10-17T15:24:00.001-07:00

Michael is sick with the stomach flu. Ewwww. It’s bad enough to be exposed to so many germs when I am at the school, but to have it in my house?? Yuck. Poor guy has been feeling under the weather for the last week. We thought he was getting better, but yesterday he relapsed. That’s a first. Usually when you start to feel better, you get better. Blacksliding is bad.

Anyway, construction is underway on a new website for Clayvillage Photography, so be on the lookout for that.

Student Teaching has been a rewarding experience and I am contemplating posting some of my reflections that I have written for my supervisor on here. Some of the experiences have been really funny, others not so much except that you have to laugh to keep from crying. Yep, I think I’ll do that.

Spent last weekend at my parent’s house. Thanks again you guys for everything (you could have kept the germs to yourselves---we wouldn’t have minded). My sister-in-law got baptized and confirmed and her son (my nephew) was blessed. All of this was done by my father. How lucky I am that he is my dad. He is such a great example and source of strength in my life.

Took some photos of my oldest brother’s family. They turned out okay, but it was the first impromptu photo-shoot thing that I have ever done on my own, so they aren’t the greatest, but some of them turned out okay. Hope they like them. I am really not very good at taking photos of people….I am better at still-life’s.

Teaching moment of the week:

One student of mine asked to go to the bathroom. “No problem,” I said. “Take a pass.” He comes back. A few minutes later he is grabbing himself like he still has to go. “Do you need to go to the bathroom?” I asked.

“Yes.”

“You just went. How come you didn’t go while you were there?” No response. “Take a pass.” He comes back just as we are getting ready to head to computers.

“Mrs. Clayville, my back is hurting me.”

“Huh. Did you fall down and hurt your back?” Shakes head. “Well, be careful. Try sitting up straight in your chair with your back up against the back rest.”

After thirty minutes I am back to pick them up. The computer teacher informs me that this student has asked to go to the bathroom twice and that he still hasn’t gone. *lightbulb* I know why his back hurts! It’s his kidneys. This boy still hasn’t gone!!

“Do you still have to go to the bathroom?”

“Yes.”

My mind is racing. Why won’t he use the bathroom? He is really quirky. What could it be: Maybe he thinks the bathroom is too dirty and gross? Maybe the kids tease him in the bathroom?

I tell him, “You need to go to the bathroom.”

“I’ll wait until I get home.” Great. Home is almost an hour away.

“No, you need to go now. That’s why your back is hurting. You need to use the bathroom here.”

“The big kid’s bathroom?” *lightbulb* There is a single bathroom next to the nurses office. One toilet, one sink. Maybe that will persuade him.*

“How about we use the bathroom next to the nurses office? Would you like to give it a try?”

“It won’t be too loud?” BINGO! Told you this kid was quirky.

“Oh no, this bathroom is really quiet. Let’s go have a look.”

After a quick tour he decides it might be okay.

“It won’t be too loud?”

“No, no. This bathroom will be fine. Try it. Don’t be scared.” I close the door and listen from the other side.

Success!!! It sounds like he had about two gallons of fluid in there, but hey, he’s finally going!

He came out all grins. “I wasn’t scared Mrs. Clayville!”

We join the rest of the class for recess.

When he approached me thirty minutes later and asked to use the bathroom, I figured, Hey, this kid has been holding it forever. He deserves another trip. “Take a pass.”

He comes back. “Did you use the bathroom by the nurses office?”

“No. The nurses office was closed.”

“So you used the regular bathroom?”

“Yes. I went Poop, Mrs. Clayville.” Terrific.

Introductions

2009-09-28T20:00:00.001-07:00

For some time now, I have been considering starting another blog for my photography. The time has come. I would like to introduce you to:

Clayvillage Photography

Photography is a hobby of mine. My intent with this blog is to showcase some of my favorite images. Please enjoy.

*Taken on Deadwood Reservoir, July ‘09

*Deadwood, July ‘09

*Ohio, March ‘07

And one of my personal favorites:

*Deadwood, July ‘09

Comments are welcome.

Deadwood July 2009

2009-09-27T17:58:00.001-07:00

We were overdue to go on a camping trip with Nathan, Melinda, and Hadley, so we all went together to our favorite lake: Deadwood Reservoir. This lake is amazing for several reasons.

Reason #1 (and Sasha’s favorite)

The fishing is amazing.

You can catch cut-throat trout, Rainbow trout, and Kokanee salmon to name a few. Each fish fights a little bit differently and are abundant in this lake.

I always joke that Michael and I wanting a hunting dog, but got a fishing dog instead. Whenever Michael stands up and heads toward the line he has cast out, she perks up and gets very anxious. She will sometimes pace until he has brought the fish in. In her short one year of life, she has already figured out her calling. Sasha has become our ‘Resident Fish-Reviver’. She gently and patiently stokes the fish until they swim away. When the fish eventually gets the hint and takes off, she will turn and look at Michael as if to say, “Okay… Next?” Watching the two of them work together is one of my favorite things to do at the lake.

What a great team!

Sasha working her Magic paws

Reason #2

Canoe Rides!

Another of Sasha’s favorites takes the form of a canoe. When we brought her to Deadwood as a puppy, she would get very upset if Michael took off without her. Wait, she still does this. Anyhow, the great thing about Deadwood is wind predictability. No, seriously. Every morning, the lake is like glass and you can paddle out to one of the islands on the lake. (It’s great exercise. Besides, you feel like you have really accomplished something when you get there and know that you did it all with your own two hands.) But I digress. The water is calm and relaxing all morning long. And when the heat of the day finally hits, so does the wind. It’s terribly convenient.

Michael and the Sasha-bear

Nathan, Melinda, and Hadley

Even Hadley went with Mom and Dad on a ride over to the island. I hear that she did pretty well. The canoe rides are so peaceful that she even caught a nap on the way back! Yep, that’s some good R&R.

Reason #3

Swimming!!!

Did you forget that we are a family of SCUBA divers? Swimming is in our blood. The water is the perfect temperature for swimming. It’s cool enough to be refreshing, yet warm enough to be enjoyable without losing the feeling in your extremities. It’s no bathtub, but it certainly hits the spot.

Whole Family (minus photographer, Michael) checking out a pollywog that Nathan caught. Hadley was trying to smush it between her thumb and forefinger. She is not grossed out by squishy, slimy things.

Nathan is a blast to go camping with because he always brings some diving gear. I wish I had brought my own mask and snorkel because someone had hit about a dozen or so golf balls into the lake (and those were just the ones we could find). It was nice to have an objective and a chance to brush up on our free diving skills. Thanks for the idea, Nate. I’m going to remember that for next time!

Nathan also is an eagle scout and worked down in FL for a while at a scout camp. Never one to let his skills get rusty, he also swamped our canoe. I had never heard of such a thing, but it turned out to be awesome fun. The best part was Nate’s interaction with Sasha during this process. He would swamp the canoe, turn it on it’s side and call out to Sasha to swim to him. She’d jump off the shore and swim for the boat. After she had climbed inside, he would proceed to dump her out. She’d paddle her little butt right back to shore. This went on for at least an hour. She was shaking with cold (her hair is very short and isn’t much good at insulating her in the cool water), but she never stopped and never seemed to mind. I think at one point she was actually underneath the boat as it was upside down. She didn’t really care for that much, but she didn’t freak out either!

Nathan and Sasha

Getting all four paws in the boat

Jumping from shore

Michael and I enjoy camping outside of the crowded campgrounds, so we have one or two spots picked out as our top choices on the lake. The downside is pooping in the woods. Fortunately for us, this year was our first with the Green Monster. We were able to camp where we wanted to and still enjoy the campground facilities by taking a short ride down the road.

Which leads me to Hadley’s favorite part:

Reason #4

ATV Trail Riding!!

She thought this was the coolest thing ever! She was always trying to convince someone, anyone, to take her for a ride. I couldn’t help but snap a couple of shots.

Hadley and Mom

Hadley and Dad

Hadley and Grandpa

Dude, I love the built in child seatbelt.

In fact, most of her time outside of nap time was spent climbing on the green monster.

That, and chopping down trees with Grandpa’s hatchet.

Observe:

This portion of the blog is brought to you by:

Other Camping Moments with Hadley

“MMmmmm, I can still smell the cookies on this wrapper”

“This looks like a good place to hide”

“… don’t put me down, don’t put me down…”

“You’d have nap hair too…”

“Hey, that’s me!”

And now back to our regularly scheduled Blog:

Nathan pulled out the Hammock from our box (we had forgotten it was even in there. This thing was old. When I say old, we were to the point where we were beginning to question it’s structural integrity. But Nate wanted to try it out.

Will it hold his weight?!

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Wait for it…

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The suspense is killing you, isn’t it?

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YES!! It will hold his weight!!!

(with the help of the ground).

Hadley even wanted to try it out:

But my favorite reason of all:

Yep, It’s that awesome.

Still Alive

2009-08-19T13:24:00.001-07:00

Sorry folks. I know I haven’t posted in a long while. I have been sitting here in my living room for the past three weeks thinking about blogging, but never quite knowing where to start. I’ve gotten really behind.

Look for updates on the following:

1. Deadwood camping trip with Nathaniel, Melinda, and Hadley

2. Debut of Clayvillage Photography

3. Deck Accident and all the gory details

(all to include photos, of course!)

So hang tight! I’ll be blogging again soon!!!

Hadley’s Early 1st Birthday

2009-07-01T08:40:00.001-07:00

The best parts about being out of town for a big occasion are 1. Celebrating Early and 2. Having close ones all to ourselves. We would liked to have been there on the actual day, though.

First Bite of Cake

I Love the look on her face here. She is so excited!

I’m not sure if she trusts these two with her new toy…

They are both having fun taking her new toy for a ‘spin’!

Utila, Honduras 2009

2009-06-16T15:32:00.001-07:00

Our dive trip to Utila, Honduras was my first trip to Central America. It was so different from our previous vacations to other islands in the Caribbean Sea.

I feel in love with the Island the moment we stepped off the plane. Getting off the plane in Utila consists of you stepping off the plane and them tossing your luggage to the side of the runway. Our cab driver was a lady in a little two seated supped-up golf cart. We threw our luggage in back and we took off! Michael and I enjoyed the view from atop our bags. We hadn’t gone five minutes down the dirt road when we were passed by a man on a motorcycle. As he passed, the lady turned and yelled over her shoulder, “And that’s our mayor!”

**This was our ‘cab’ picking us up at the airport. The pavement behind us is the runway.

The Boat house that we rented was amazing. Most beach houses are set further back on the beach. This little place was built out over the water on pilings. A dock ran from the land to the front door and out over the water, so we had our own private dock.

The tourist crowd was very different there from the typical crowd on a Caribbean ‘dive island’. There were so many Europeans and most were in their early twenties. They were reminiscent of American Hippies, flying from island to island, staying weeks and even months at a time. Some of them picked up jobs at the local restaurants in order to earn just enough money to rent a room shared by three other people (and to pay for their diving, of course).

**Shopping at the local grocery store

**The 3 divers getting ready for our ‘shake-down-dive’ (making sure all of our equipment works properly and that we remember how to use said equipment)

One of the really fun things we got to experience on this trip was setting foot on the Utila Aggressor. It is one ship from a whole fleet of Live-Aboards. These ships are designed to be a resort, dive operation, and dive boat all rolled into one. I have read advertisements for these ships in diving magazines, but it was a whole different thing to see it in person. And we even got a picture.

It was pretty awesome.

We chose to dive with Utila Dive Centre instead. Something about being forced to co-habitat with a dozen other people we’d never met before in close quarters……. um, yah.

And this was our dive boat—“Old Tom”. Not nearly as fancy as the Aggressor, but we couldn’t have asked for a nicer crew. Anthony always got us to the whale sharks first, Chico lent Dwaine his own fins with Dwaine forgot his, and Lukas was a kind, social soul who made diving a pleasant experience. I am sad that I never did get a photo with them.

Dining was an unusual experience on Utila. Being in Central America makes one nervous when eating out. They don’t have Agencies like the FDA that make sure your food is safe to eat and the kitchens sanitary. But, we did have our favorite places. Cafe’ Mariposa tops my list. They had the most delicious nachos, quesadillas, pasta, and seafood.

Then there was a local BBQ just down and across the street from our boat house. The owner was a guy who didn’t want to work more than three nights a week, so we could only eat there Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday nights. They always had a huge plate of food for a great price.

I did get sick on this trip too. I still don’t know if it was something that I ate/drank on the island or if I just came down with a bug I brought with me (I’d been feeling queasy during our travel time down to Utila). It was not a pleasant experience. I won’t go into details, but the stomach flu is not fun in the humid tropics of Central America (see also bullet #4 under things I love about the U.S.)

I went to the local medical center and the dr there said that I had an inflamed colon and that she wanted to give me an injection of anti-inflammatories. Okay, we are talking about needles (which I hate anyway) in a foriegn country (oiy) that does not seem to have any kind of drug administration to verify the safety of said needle or drug. YIKES!!! I said yes to the injection and got a shot right in the buttocks (yet another first for me, folks). I was desperate to try anything to alleviate the sickness in my body. It was a truly scary time in my life and I am very lucky that I lived through it without contracting some kind of virus or hepatitis or something!

Fortunately, We bumped into the Elders only a few days before and had also seen the location of the local chapel. Michael tracked them down and they were able to give me a blessing for the sick. I was feeling better 30 mins later. Thanks again Elders Russ, Beach, and Valle. In gratitude for rescuing me from debilitating illness, we took them out for dinner to Cafe’ Mariposa. Yep, the Elders love it there too.

**Local meeting house

I saw a seahorse on this dive trip, another first for me. I didn’t get a picture of the little guy, just video. It surprised me how colorful he wasn’t. Overall, the diving was good. Not great, but good.

Here is a list of the dive sites we dove:

The Great Wall
Rebecca’s Garden
La Parada (where we saw a grouper in a cleaning station (another 1st for me)
Rugged Key
Blackish Point (sighted VERY LARGE Midnight Parrotfish)
Lighthouse Reef (where we were stung by Jellys! **really really tiny ones)
Labrynth (Full of swim throughs and sighted 3 Peacock Flounders)
The Pinnacle
The Aquarium (VERY SURGEY—told to stay deeper underwater to prevent us from being tossed against the jagged lava rocks that line this section of the coast. Saw Puffer fish with a head as big as a basketball)

But perhaps the funniest stories are the ones that happened when we were leaving Utila for home. First off, we had to take the ferry to the mainland before catching a flight. The two little boys seated next to me began throwing up. The Utila Princess isn’t nick-named the ‘Vomit Express’ for nothing!

Once we did reach the mainland, we had to take a taxi to the airport. The guy was only driving a sedan and we had five large suitcases between the four of us. Not wanting to lose a fare, this cabbie came up with some creative solutions, one of which resulted in one of my favorite photos of the whole trip:

I have to admit that all of our luggage made it safely to the airport.

Other things I Loved about Utila:

Sleeping with the windows open under just a sheet
Swimming off our front steps
Watching the amazing sunsets on the water from our porch
Nachos and Quesadillas from Cafe Mariposa
Drinking soda out of glass bottles
Laminated Boarding Passes

When it was time to come home, I was glad to get back to the States. Here are the things I love about America:

Drinking water out of the tap
Not having to worry about where the ice in my drink came from
Paper toilet seat covers
Flushing my used toilet paper
Health standards for restaurants
Hospitals and Medical assistance (and their high standards)
Airplanes with air conditioning

People have often asked me which one of my trips has been my favorite. They are all my favorites…It just depends on what you’re looking for.

Mario Kart Love Song

2009-05-26T20:56:00.001-07:00

My cousin shared this video with me via her blog. Enjoy! (especially you, author of “A Slice of Life.” I know how much you enjoy Mario Kart.)

My Kind of Flowers

2009-05-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

One of my students gave me the following bouquet for Teacher Appreciation Week.

Ahhhhh, isn’t that ‘sweet’?

“The New Science of Siblings”

2009-05-19T09:23:00.001-07:00

Another class assignment this semester led me to an interesting discovery…an article on the role siblings play in our lives.

Written by Wendy Cole of Chicago, this article details how our siblings impact our adult lives. All that fighting we did as kids only made us better problem solvers and negotiators. Those of us with siblings of the opposite sex may have had an easier time finding a spouse. But the part that I liked best, was when it described how we grow closer to our siblings as we get older. This is no surprise to me, but I find it fascinating that science has also taken an interest in this phenomenon.

Here is my favorite quote:

From the Day they are born, our brothers and sisters are our collaborators and co-conspirators, our role models and cautionary tales. They are our scolds, protectors, goads, tormentors, playmates, counselors, sources of envy, and objects of pride. they teach us how to resolve conflicts and how not to; how to conduct friendships and when to walk away from them. Sisters teach brothers about the mysteries of girls; brothers teach sisters about the puzzle of boys. Our spouses arrive comparatively late in our lives; our parents eventually leave us. Our siblings may be the only people we’ll ever know who truly qualify as partners for live. “Siblings,” says family sociologist Katherine Conger of the University of California, Davis, are with us for the whole journey.”

It goes on to say:

Full-blown childhood crises may forge even stronger lifelong links. The death of a parent blows some families to bits. But when older sibs step in to help raise younger ones, the dual role of contemporary and caretaker can lay the foundation for an indestructible closeness later on. … Such powerful connections become even more important as the inevitable illnesses or widowhood of late life lead us to lean on the people we’ve known the longest. Even siblings who drift apart in their middle years tend to drift back together as they age. “The relationship is especially strong between sisters,” …says Judy Dunn, a developmental psychologist at London’s Kings College.

My family has faced many hardships, including the death of our mother when we were just small children. I know that my relationships with my brothers and sisters have brought us even closer over the years. My sisters are my very best friends and I would do anything for them.

My sisters and me with our father. *Thanks KT for the photo!

References:

Cole, W. (2006, July 2). The New Science of Siblings. Time . http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1209949,00.html

**This article was printed in Times Magazine on Sunday, July 02, 2006. Ironically, this was the same Sunday my brother had a terrible accident and we were afraid that he might lose his legs, if not worse. He has made a full recovery and we are grateful that he is able to continue this life’s journey with us.

Community Service

2009-05-10T22:00:00.001-07:00

As a requirement for one of my assignment for my social studies methods class, I completed four hours of community service. My first choice was to volunteer at the Idaho Food Bank. I would have liked to have done some work at the local cannery, but my schedule was never open when they were working there.

So I went with my second choice—preparing hygiene and school kits for the Church’s Humanitarian Center. The great thing about my project was that I was able to put together the kits in the comfort of my own home. The hard thing about this service project was the expense. I had to buy all of the materials for the kits and it turned out to be pretty spendy by the time I was done. But, I feel good about how it all came together. I took a few photos.

Hygiene Kits

School Kits

The Finished Kits. I put together eight school kits and six hygiene kits. It doesn’t look like much, but I’m hoping that they might brighten up someone’s day.

For more info on where these kits go or how to put together your own, visit http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/

Where in the World - Part 5

2009-03-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

Utila, Honduras --> 2009

Michael and I are preparing to take off on our next adventure. Utila.

Utila is part of The Bay Islands of Honduras (because apparently there is another set off the coast of New Zealand). Utila is the most western of The Bay Islands and is closest to the coast of Honduras (part of Central America).

Utila and the Bay Islands were British Isles until around 1861 when Great Britain ceded them to Honduras. My point? English is spoken on the island. Yay! I have read that it isn't safe to drink the water, though. Bummer. The Dr. gave us some medicine to help with any stomach issues we may inadvertently encounter, so at least we have a back up plan.

Why this little slice of heaven on earth? Why this place with a funny name and truly random location? Well, I'll tell you.

We are hoping for an experience similar to this!

What is almost as exciting as the potential of swimming with Whale Sharks is the fact that this is going to be a group vacation. Michael's best friend and his girlfriend are coming with us. We have been looking forward to a SCUBA trip together and it has finally arrived!

This will be good practise for the group vacation we are planning for next year with some of my family members... but more about that another time!

My Mosaic of photos to follow the our return in a few weeks!

Honduran flag courtesy of 4 International Flags

Where in the World - Part 4

2009-03-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

Bonaire 2008:

1. Baby's got blue eyes, 2. Sea Anemone, 3. Where's my shovel, 4. Reflections of Captian Don's, 5. 1000 Steps, 6. Hawaiian Shirt and Sunglasses, 7. Scorpion Fish, 8. Second Silhouette , 9. Come fly with me

Where in the World - Part 3

2009-03-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

Cayman Islands --> Cayman Brac 2007:

1. Welcome!, 2. Strawberry Crab, 3. Silhouettes , 4. Beach House, 5. Untitled, 6. The Brac, 7. Under Water Colors, 8. Our love is as Deep as the Ocean, 9. Brac Bat Cave
Flag of Cayman Islands image courtesy of 4 International Flags

Where in the World - Parts 1 & 2

2009-03-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

With only a couple of weeks left before we leave for our next adventure, I thought it would be nice to take a look back at where we've been.

Years one and two have been combined due to the fact that we went to the same place both times. I only wish I had taken more photos of the island while I was there. Most of my photos of Jamaica are my wedding photos.

Jamaica 2005 & 2006:

1. Michael and Jill, 2. Jamaica handiwork, 3. Lush and green, 4. swimming horses, 5. Poolside down time, 6. Zipline, 7. Friends for a week, 8. Jamaican Attitude, 9. Bamboo
Jamaican flag courtesy of 4 International Flags

Tunnel's Light

2009-03-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

I received the following email on Wednesday:

For Fall 2009 you should register for ED-CIFS 461 and another part of student teaching. It could be ED-CIFS 465, ED-CIFS 466, or ED-SPED 467 or ED-BLESL 462. Please make sure that you have signed up for the 14 credits of student teaching.
Your application for winter graduation is due August 28, 2009. Please do not forget to apply for graduation.
Finally, this is your degree so it is important that you check your Degree Progress Report to make sure that everything all classes have been taken. There will still be red on the DPR as you have not completed your degree. However, make sure that all the classes are taken and all academic adjustments have been made. If there are outstanding classes please contact your advisor.
Dr. Miller

Not very long ago I had three more years left of school. I just can't believe they are telling me it's time to apply for graduation. The light at the end of this tunnel is getting bigger and brighter.

It's tough raising a teenager

2009-02-19T14:43:00.000-08:00

Sasha has been going through a bit of an identity crisis and has developed a bad attitude. At first we thought it was cute when she started wearing her baseball cap backwards.

But that led to the stocking cap, and I just don't think I handle it. She looks like a member of a gang or something. I knew it could only mean trouble.

My suspicions were confirmed when she ran away. She was gone for two whole days! I thought I was going to have a heart attack when we got the call from the puppy prison saying they had picked her up off a street corner. That's just not very lady like! Now her Dad and I are concerned about the possibility of her being pregnant. We knew her body had started to go through the change, but we hoped that she would wait until she was a little bit older to have pups of her own. You never can trust those neighborhood dogs...pushing on the fence gate until it opens and running off with your little girl.
Now she's been walking around the house in boy's underwear.

Have mercy.

Happy Love Day!!

2009-02-14T10:50:00.000-08:00

I decided to do something I little bit different this year for Valentine's Day. My husband and I eloped to Jamaica nearly three years ago. My family was not able to attend, and for that my sisters have never forgiven me. I put this video together from photos and video clips of our special day. Hopefully the combination gives everyone an idea of what the day was like.

Password is 'Love'.

Our Wedding Day from Jill Clayville on Vimeo.

The little things that make me smile

2009-02-09T19:20:00.001-08:00

I have been eating in the school cafeteria ever since I started my internship at the elementary school down the street. One day last week, Almasa came up to me and asked if I wanted the finger steaks or the fish nuggets. With raised eyebrows, I asked, "Those are our choices?" She nodded. She must have understood my disdain because she replied, "I suggest the finger steaks and a LARGE salad."
Fifth grade has been tough, but that conversation made me laugh.

California Adventures--Part 1

2008-12-21T19:55:00.000-08:00

After many hours of sitting in the airport following our delayed flight, M and I arrived in California two nights ago. The first night was reserved for decompression. We hung out in the house that M grew up in and visited with his dad. The next day, the three of us had brunch and lounged somemore. In the late afternoon of the first day, we ventured out. Our first stop--Golf and Stuff. Yep, straight out of The Karate Kid...and it's just down the street! Then we headed for Downtown Disney where we met up with M's 6th grade girlfriend and her husband (no joke). It was really a lot of fun. They gave us the grand tour andeven took our photo in front of the gigantic Christmas tree in the hotel there. It was so much fun. We stayed for the fireworks show, but it must have been too windy as they never did light any. oh well.
Day two was even better. We met up with M's brother and sister-in-law and the five of us had brunch at STAX. This has become one of my favorite traditions. His brother and sister-in-law have always been so kind to me and it's a treat to spend time with M's family for a change. We talked and gabbed and planned parts of M and My's trip to Germany (they used to live there when he was in the military and gave us all kinds of good tips!).
Our second adventure on this california trip was The Arboretum of Los Angeles County. It was started by 'Lucky' Baldwin, the man who started Santa Anita Race Track. In fact, they are right across the street from each other. Anyhow, Lucky decided that he wanted to lanscape this property of his with plants from all over the world. So he did. It's really neat to walk and look at all the different trees and try to imagine that you're really there in Australia! (or Asia, for that matter). I will try to post pictures a little later.

Hello?

2008-12-09T09:28:00.001-08:00

Just wondering if anybody reads this anymore. I know I got sloppy and didn't post...for like...ever....but please tell me I didn't loose my readers. Post me a comment and let me know you're still there!

Hadley's Christmas

2008-12-09T09:03:00.001-08:00

Grandpa is going out of town this year for Christmas but he didn't want to miss seeing her open her presents for the first time. Hadley celebrated christmas a little bit early this year!

Merry Christmas Hadley!

To the Reddest of the Red States!

2008-12-05T12:29:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to post this article since I first read it a month ago. It made me proud to call myslf an Idaho Republican. To the Reddest of the Red States!!

This article was published in the Boise State Newspaper. You can find it here.

How Republicans work for Idaho
BY SID SMITH
Issue date: 11/3/08 Section: News

In a season where Republicans and Democrats don’t agree on much, there are two issues where we do: Voters face an important choice in November, and there are real differences between the two major parties.For many years now, Idaho voters have overwhelmingly and repeatedly chosen the Republican Party as the party that represents their views and interests, both in Boise and Washington, D.C. Here are some reasons why.The root issue is the similarity between Idahoans’ beliefs and the Republican philosophy that individuals are the most efficient, dynamic and creative element in our society, not government. Private citizens are more effective at creating jobs, managing money and solving problems than government bureaucrats. While government can and should play a role in the lives of Americans, that role ought to be limited. Everything a government does springs from a healthy and prosperous economy. Taxpayers pay for our national defense. The money to build safe roads and good schools comes from your pocket. When the government intrudes too much into the private sector with excessive regulations or burdensome taxes, it not only hurts the economy, it hurts government revenue and services too. With excessive government intervention, Idaho’s and America’s employers are often forced into hard choices: to pay taxes instead of hiring a new worker; to pay for an attorney to help them comply with new rules and regulations instead of providing health insurance; to pay the second-highest corporate tax rates in the world (as they do in the United States) or to relocate to a country where they are lower. When government demands too much, these things happen, and everybody loses.Many of the things Democrats talk about in this election fall into that “excessive and burdensome” category. When Democrats promise a new program or increased spending, remember where they’re going to get the money to pay for it – your pocket. This is emblematic of the Democrats’ top-down, we-know-what’s-best-for-you philosophy. They want to tax you so they can spend your money, instead of you. Recently, Jim Hansen, Executive Director of the Idaho Democrats, wrote that “Idaho needs to catch up with the rest of the West,” and elect more Democrats. Mr. Hansen, Idaho voters are plenty capable of deciding for themselves who they want to vote for, and they won’t stand for your patronizing attitude, based on a false stereotype that Idahoans are backward people.Idahoans had enough of Democrat leadership under Bill Clinton. They saw the way he treated our military, our veterans, Idaho’s public lands and our water.In contrast, Idaho Republicans believe the government closest to the people performs the best. We know supporting the Second Amendment isn’t just about hunting or posing with a shotgun. Strange how Democrats frequently forget that firearms are also important to self-defense.Idaho Republicans understand that America’s dependence on foreign oil is a national security issue. We support an approach to energy production described as “all of the above.” Wind, solar power, hydrogen and other renewables are the fuels of the future. But that future isn’t quite here yet, so we need to use readily available forms of energy until then, like oil and natural gas reserves on the Outer Continental Shelf, hydropower and nuclear power. Republicans also understand that raising taxes on oil and gas will raise the price of a gallon of gas, not lower it.Idaho Republicans have brought companies like Areva to the state, which means hundreds of jobs that will pay more than just a living wage. Republicans understand that in order for our economy to grow and create jobs, we need lower taxes, not higher. Republicans in our legislature created the rainy day funds to prevent recessions from gutting education funding. Idaho’s Republicans, whether serving in the courthouse, the statehouse, or on Capitol Hill, have brought commonsense solutions to the challenges facing us all. That’s why Idaho has become the reddest of the red states.

Executive Director, Idaho Republican Party

Just one moment…

2008-11-20T16:29:00.000-08:00

I breathe in the thick, hot air as my face lights up in a smile. My clothes are sticking to my body even though I am only wearing a tank top and shorts. I am standing next to my fiancé, Michael, he in his scuba shirt and red baseball cap. This moment represents the first of what I hope will be a lifetime of adventures together. We are surrounded by the lush green that is everywhere in this Jamaican jungle and somehow the sun’s heat still reaches us under the massive layers of treetops. It is tough to hear the voices of the other zip-liners in our group over the roar of the rushing water behind us. My stomach feels like it is doing flips on a trampoline. I can’t be sure if it’s the left-over exhilaration from literally flying through the treetops by the seat of my pants. I never knew that having a harness strapped to my waist and gliding across miles of cables on a pulley system could be so exciting. But maybe the stomach flips are really just the humidity playing tricks on me. One thing I know for sure is that I am truly happy and I am certain that it has nothing to do with the rum punch.

I've become one of THOSE people....

2008-10-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again people. The leaves are turning colors and falling off the trees, the air is getting colder, and the wind is starting to blow. That's right, it's winter time again. I have one word for you.... BLEH! I hate winter! I always have. Snow holds absolutely no joy for me. And what's really funny is when I tell people this, they look at me and say, "You must not have grown up around here." Ha ha ha ha. Wrong, People! I grew up here and I still hate it! Take that! It's all because of my poor circulation, really. You see, my hands and feet are always cold.. even in the summer. So, throw cold weather and snow in the mix and you get one unhappy camper. I cannot wait for the day that Michael retires so that we can move to someplace tropical and live there all year round.

But enough daydreaming. I now have another concern...What am I going to do during the winter with a short-haired dog who shivers every time there's a breeze on a hot summer day??? You buy her a jacket, that's what.

Sasha is ready for the cold, are you?

Photo Personality

2008-09-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

I think that you can tell a lot about a person by simply looking at some photographs. What do you think mine says about me (beside the fact that I have a serious sweet-tooth)?

No, I didn't take these photos myself, but I selected them by answering a few questions and picking the photo I liked best. You can do the same and here's how:

Type your answers to each of the questions into Flickr search. Using only the first page of results, pick your favorite image, then copy and paste each of the URL's into the Mosaic maker (3 columns, 4 rows).
The questions:
1. What is your first name?
2. What is your favorite food?
3. What high school did you attend?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
6. Favorite drink?
7. Dream vacation?
8. Favorite dessert?
9. What do you want to be when you grow up?
10. What do you love most in life?
11. One word to describe you.
12. Your flickr name?

And because I didn't take these photos myself, here's to the awesome individuals who made my dream of visual representation a reality:

1. Jill's Fresh Tattoo, 2. Macaroni & cheese, 3. Stairway to Nowhere: Broken Stairs of the Long-Ago Demolished Jerome, Arizona Main Street Primary School, 4. When I'm sleeping, I slow down my breathing...Living in dreams, dreams that come true...thinking of the color blue... ZZZzzzzzz..., 5. The Gordons of Gight – 8 of 9, 6. 14th August 2007 / Day 226, 7. Neuschwanstein Castle, 8. strawberry rhubarb crisp, 9. The Teacher's Desk, 10. Two Gulls, St.Michael's, Maryland, 11. Rex on the Beach, 12. Venture 2

Memorial

2008-06-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

I know that it is really late for a memorial day post, but I found this photo and thought I'd share. This is a photo that was taken of my mother's headstone and was taken by her sister, my Aunt Linda.

Mom knew that getting together as families was important. She would always arrange for our family to get together with our cousins and grandparents. Every year growing up, we would go to the cemetery on memorial day and get a family photo in front of the huge piece of petrified wood that marked our family site. When she passed away, we would go every year and remember her. I am sad that I haven't been able to go to the cemetery for the last few years, but I do try to keep up her traditions by getting together with my family as often as possible.

Love You Mom!

Slightly Far-Sighted with a Touch of Astigmatism

2008-06-11T12:47:00.001-07:00

I had been getting headaches a lot lately. When I went back East to help snappy load her Penske, I had one just about everyday. I noticed that they usually got worse when I was reading, watching TV, and surfing the web. It had been bothering me for a while, so when I saw a coupon in the newspaper for a $39 eye exam I thought, What the heck?

I clipped out the coupon and headed to the optomitrist between two job interviews and lunch with M. What he told me surprised me, but then again it didn't. My left eye has a little bit of astigmatism and I am slightly far sighted. The only other time in my life that I had ever had an eye exam was when I was 12 or so. The doctor said I was slightly far sighted, but that I would probably grow out of it. Didn't happen. I had no idea, however, that my left eyeball wasn't the same shape as my right one. That is slightly disturbing....

Anyhoo, as of yesterday, I have a couple of pairs of glasses. I don't have to wear them all the time, just when I am reading, watching TV, and surfing the web (as a way to cut back from the headache symptoms). The first pair is a classic solid black frame and are very comfortable. The second pair are a little more funky, blue, with a hint of wing-tips.

I took a few self-portraits yesterday. What do you think of the new me?

I can't decide what I think...............

Are you feeling the funk?............................................................................

They do make me feel and look more intelligent...........................................

Well, Hello there.................................................................... Did I mention the Sassy factor?

Yah, I think I could get used to these.................................................................

Although, I can't promise that they won't bring out my inner-nerd......................(I feel like such a dork).

Wind-What?

2008-06-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

Snappy: I can't wait to drive through Nebraska and see all the wind-turbines. They have a lot of those there.
Lucky: wind-what?
Snappy: Wind-turbines.
Lucky: Oh, you mean wind-mills.
Snappy: Well, technically they're not wind-mills because they're not grinding or milling anything.
Lucky: Gotcha, wind-turbines.

On the phone a few hours later:
Lucky: I guess there are a lot of wind-turbines in Nebraska. Those will be neat to see.
M: a lot of what?
Lucky: Wind-turbines.
M: Oh, you mean Wind-mills.

Time Goes By

2008-06-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

What has this mermaid been up to lately? Pretty much nothing. Yep, that's why I haven't written in a really, really long time. School has been out for about a month and I am still unemployed. The weekend school was out, I flew out of town to Indiana one last time. My brother-in-law graduated from dental school and it was nice that I was able to be there to support him in that. Then I helped them pack up their two bedroom apartment and drive cross country (most of the way anyway). Z and Lulu are both growing up so fast and it's nice to spend as much time with them as possible.
A couple of weeks later was Lainey's graduation. As a surprise, our sister KT flew in from Cincinnati Ohio. They got the whole thing on video. Lainey kept saying "Oh my word! oh my word!" She had no idea. It was great. Something else that's great is working hard as a family and enjoying the results. We upity women (my sisters and I) made a united front and conquered the front and back yards together in preparation for the big luncheon that Saturday. We mowed, trimmed, raked, shoveled, and even pruned. It looked and felt amazing.
That weekend was also the weekend of Lily's Baptism and confirmation. Yep, big weekend for the family. I enjoyed every moment. All seven of us sisters were there. I have come to learn and embrace the fact that my sisters are some of my very best friends. Who'd have thought?
Know what's better than sisters? Nothing. But brothers come in a close second. KT wanted to have a bonfire while she was home (those kinds of things are kinda out of the question in Cincinnati) but we could never get everyone together and make it happen. Fortunately, Karl is one incredible brother. He build KT a fire in Jake's backyard so that she wouldn't miss out. Brittany, Jake's wife, and Bonnie, Karl's fiance', even went and bought us supplies for Smores.
One word: De-Lish!
Last Tuesday night was really neat. I had made reservations for two at PF Changs (M and My's favorite resturant in Boise). I'm not sure how it happened, but it ended up being a group of eight. It was a celebration of June birthdays. M, Dad, and Luke all have birthdays the same week. And just for kicks, we invited M's oldest boy and his wife to come along. Afterall, their baby is due in a week! Great company and great food. That's all I gotta say.
The rest of my time has been spent job searching. It has been rough on my ego. No one, and I mean No one, has wanted to hire me. Ouch. But things are looking up. I have a second interview with Christine with Van Huesen (M's favorite clothing brand). It's only part-time (12-20 hrs) but it's better than the income I've got going on right now... and maybe with time I can progress to full-time status.

Here's hoping.

At a loss for words

2008-05-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been over a month! Good grief. And I still don't have anything good to say. Whenever I'm at a loss for words, I talk about the best thing that's ever happened to me. Let's get to know M a little better

My Husband
1-What is his name? M
2-Who eats more? Me, and I have no idea where I put it all
3-Who said I love you first? M. I was very surprised
4-Who is taller? M...6' vs 5'6...
5-Who is smarter? M. He has a tendency to use very big words and it puts me to shame
6-Who is more sensitive? Me! Fortunately he's a very patient man. How did I get so lucky?
7-Who does the laundry? Me. It's one of my favorite chores
8-Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? If you're looking at the bed, I do (I thought these questions were supposed to be about him!)
9-Who pays the bills? Whomever gets to it first
10-Who cooks more? I do even though I hate it and he's better at it
11-What meals do you cook together? Nothing, it's either him or me
12-Who is more stubborn? We are about equal, but maybe him by a sliver
13-Who is the first to admit they are wrong? Definitely M. He's always apologizing first
14-Who is more clean? I do the cleaning, but he's the neat freak. He lets me know when the dirtiness is beyond what he can tolerate (not that our house is ever that gross)
15-Who has more siblings? Ha! Me
16-Who wears the pants in the relationship? M, most certainly
17-What do you like to do together? Go hunting, fishing, camping, swimming, diving, traveling, walking our dog :D
18-Who eats more sweets? M likes to have a small treat after every dinner, but I like larger quantities
19-Guilty pleasures? Tiger Woods Golf, chocolate covered pretzels, ebay, Me
20-How did you meet? Long story. Ask me if you're really that interested
21-Who asked who out first? We really didn't go out..... we just hung out together
22-Who kissed who first? He told me to kiss him, so I gave him a peck on the cheek. I was a tease.
23-Who proposed? Um, I would say him, but we don't really have an official proposal story
24-His best features? His gorgeous blue eyes
25-What is his greatest quality? His patience, good humor, and love for me.

First Family Outing

2008-04-13T18:35:00.001-07:00

Our little family went out on our first outing. Every spring, M likes to go out to BLM land and do a little shooting. Now that we have a hunting dog, we thought it would be a good idea to see how our little Sasha-bear would handle the whole experience. She absolutely loved being able to smell and explore without being on a leash. I was so proud of her because she never wandered off but followed us everywhere we went. One of the things we did worry about, however, was whether or not she would be gun-shy. We bought her because we wanted a dog that we could take hunting with us. This would be a serious issue if the sound of gunshots made her nervous. Imagine our relief when M made his first shot and all she did was look at him!! It was so fun to have our little family out on an excursion together enjoying one another's company and sharing this experience with Sasha. Of course, she was so excited she wore herselve out and slept all the way home! She's got some growing to do yet, but she's getting there.

Look at all this potential!

She followed him everywhere.

Almost got it........

There it is. My little hunting buddies!

My little Sasha-Bear

2008-04-10T20:20:00.000-07:00

My sisters know me too well (I guess that's why they are my sisters). Our little girl is a new puppy. While some people may think that this may not be as much as a commitment as a human baby, anyone who knows M and I know that this is a huge step for us!

When M and I were thinking about getting a new pet, we thought that it would be a good idea to get a hunting dog. We had it narrowed down to a few breeds: Labs, Brittanys, and German Shorthaired Pointers. Then M ran across a breed while surfing the web, a breed I'd never heard of. Vizsla's are hunting dogs that come from Hungary and they are the best of the best when it comes to hunting dogs. They retrieve like Labs, flush birds like Brittanys, and point like German Shorthairs. Plus, they have short-haired coats so they don't shed and webbed toes so they can swim! We started looking for Vizslas, but the closest ones we could find were in Michigan or somewhere rediculous, and it would have been extremely expensive to have the puppy shipped to us. M just happened to look in the classifieds at work one day and noticed an ad for Vizsla puppies! Imagine our suprise because this is not a common breed. Turns out that the man with the puppies for sale lived just down the street! Talk about fate!!! We went over to look at the pups. They had four males and two females. My heart melted when I saw the larger of the two females. She was calm, lovable, and wanted to be held. We put down a deposit and arranged to pick her up when we got back from our trip.

We've had her for just over a week. I never could have imagined how she would change my life. Even though she's not a 'human' baby, she is very dear to my heart. I love to just hold her when she's sleeping and listen to her whine while she's dreaming. Having a new addition to the family has it's challenges. Potty training has been a real adventure! We've even had our first trip to the doctor, yikes! (poor little thing had a urinary infection). Even with all the ups and downs, she's filled my life with such joy.

People have asked me if M and I will ever have children. The answer is no. It is tough for me because I've grown up in a culture that stresses the importance of motherhood and raising children. While I acknowledge this noble endeavor, it is not something that will be a part of my life. I don't really know how to tell people the reason why M and I won't be having kids. The bottom line is, M and I decided that it would be better for us not to have any children. That's it.

That's why I'm extra grateful that M and I were able to have Sasha join our family. She is my baby girl and I'm glad to have her in my life.

Sasha's first night in her new home was a little scary, but she found comfort in M's lap and enjoyed a little TV.

This little girl needs her down time.

Pretty in Pink. M bought her a bright pink collar. There are no questions about whether she's a boy or a girl!

It's a Girl

2008-04-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

After two years of marriage, M and I have decided that it's time to add on to our family. That's right, we have decided to adopt. We'd been thinking about it for quite some time, done our research, and made all of the arrangements. Everything has seemingly fallen into place since making this decision. We couldn't be happier.

The new addition is a little hungarian girl named Sasha. She has got green eyes, reddish gold hair, and is a vision in pink. She has filled our lives with joy and made me feel complete in a way I never thought was possible.

I am very optimistic about the future for this little family of three. :D

*Pictures of our darling little girl and a post about our vacation to Bonaire to follow shortly

Indiana, here I come!

2008-02-22T11:44:00.000-08:00

I mentioned in an early post that my sister had purchased an airline ticket for me. I am going to fly out to spend a few days with her girls while she and her DH are scoping out potential post-grad school living areas (and hopefully enjoying some one on one time together). She asked me to do this almost a month ago, and I was ecstatic! Well, that was almost a month ago.
We've been keeping each other updated on travel itineraries etc. Just yesterday she sent me an email letting me know all of the 'nitty-gritty' details in addition to contact numbers, etc. Our other sister will be watching the girls until I get there and picking me up from the airport. I have been keeping up with homework because I will be missing a day of each class.
I have been going over all of this information lately and it struck me-- I'm leaving in five or so days! This is really happening!
I haven't seen my neices since their trip out to Idaho last summer. I was able to spend my spring break with them a year ago, and I am really looking forward to seeing how much bigger they've both gotten. The other plus is that I get to see my other sister's kids too! Her youngest will be a year in a couple of months, and I can't wait to see how big he has gotten over the winter.
I'm really grateful for my family. I'm glad that my sister felt that she could call and ask me to come and stay with her girls. I'm really excited about this opportunity.
Yay!

Random Photos

2008-02-17T13:32:00.000-08:00

I was upset that I didn't have my camera at the museum, but here's a few pics I managed to snap of last night.

JT wailing away on Guitar Hero.

Popcorn anyone?

Oh yes, my card shark of a father is also a pool shark.

Peanut likes popcorn.

Caught in the act! JT is wearing his glasses again (just until the surgery, that is).

Peek-a-Boo!

Still in love after ten years.

The Boys: watching YouTube. The addiction began here. The little boy in the orange is JT's little boy. He's so gosh darn cute and he LOVES his Grandpa.

Full House

2008-02-16T20:31:00.000-08:00

I got a unexpected call from my dad this morning. My little brother was going to be in Boise at the girl's high school basketball championship, and Dad wanted to know if I could pick him up. Unfortunately, M and I had an appointment with our tax guy, so I wasn't going to be available. Dad said it was no biggie, that my brother was staying with a friend and that he would be okay. Turns out he never was in Boise, he went to Minico instead.
Dad said that he was going to come up anyway and my brother JT and his wife (which meant their two kids too) would probably want to come. How fun. I was going to get to spend some time with the family. I had no idea.
We met Dad at my eldest brother's house (he had just returned from six weeks in Georgia). We decided that we wanted to take them and the kids to the War Hawk Museum in Nampa. But first, Dad treated us all to lunch at the airport cafe. Thanks Pops.
What fun it was! My nephew is almost 2 years old and he was sooo fun to watch. The cafe is situated right off the runway and my nephew would yell "airplane!" everytime a plane would take off. It really was fun to watch him in the museum too. he would run back and forth between the four planes saying, "airplane, airplane." Come to find out, airplane was the second word he ever spoke.... just after his first word, chicken.
We wanted to go and see the movie, The Waterhorse, but it wasn't playing at a time that was convenient for us. So we agreed to meet back at M and My house. The kids love my house. Well, everyone does. It's a cool place to hang out. The older nephews love the pool table, the younger ones like to watch movies on the big screen, and the adults..... well, the adults love the big, comfy, couch (not the kid show, the big red comfy couch in my great room). It was really fun because it was the first time I was able to introduce my neice, Aubs, to my ferrets. She took to them right away. I knew she would. She's a lot like her cousin, Z, who loves them also.
We ordered pizza, put on a movie for the kids, played some pool, and watched some hilarious videos on YouTube. Yes, It is my fault my father is now addicted to that website.
The moral of the story is that family is really great and they are a blast to hang out with. Oh, not to mention how cool my place is. Next time you're in town, give me a ring and come on over!
Pictures of this glorious night are soon to follow, so keep an eye peeled!

Here Comes the Sun

2008-02-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

I was looking at the countdown function on my cell phone the other day. I have it counting down to my trip with M this spring break to Bonaire. I was very pleased to see that it is coming up sooner than I thought. There are only 36 days until we leave! I am just very excited about going somewhere tropical and doing some more Scuba Diving. Plus, this year M and I will be celebrating our 2nd Anniversary outside the United States. I couldn't possibly think of anything more romantic! I am very excited and looking forward to getting on a plane and traveling the world.

Speaking of which, My sister has purchased a plane ticket for me to travel to Indiana! I could not be more thrilled. I get to spend four days with my neices, Z and Lulu. I spent spring break of last year with them, and I am looking forward to the follow-up trip. Twice a year really isn't enough to spend with family. I just hope that I will get to see them more often when their daddy graduates from school and moves back West. Until then, I will enjoy the occasional trip out to spoil them. :D

A lyric a day

2008-02-04T13:22:00.001-08:00

I LOVE music and the way it makes me feel. I love to listen to the lyrics and try to figure out what message the songwriter is really trying to convey. I think I'm going to start posting about interesting lyrics as I discover them. Today's post is a two-for.

The first song is by Sarah Bareilles called Love Song.

I'm not gonna write you a love song
'cause you asked for it
'cause you need one, you see
I'm not gonna write you a love song
'cause you tell me it's
Make or break in this
If you're on your way I'm not gonna write you to stay
If all you have is leaving, I'm gonna need a better reason to write you a love song today

I love it because to me it says "If you're only going to stay if I write a song for you, than you can go ahead a leave. There are much better reasons to be in a relationship, like love. True love speaks for itself, it doesn't need to be written." I have been in relationships where I've been told, "If you can't do this.... then we shouldn't be together." No offense, but if that is going to control whether or not you love me, then maybe we should say goodbye. Be with me because you want to be with me. It's really very simple.

The second lyric is by Ingrid Michaelson called, The Way I Am.

If you are chilly, here take my sweater.
Your head is aching, I'll make it better.
Cuz I love the way you call me baby.
And you take me the way I am.
Cuz I love you more than I could ever promise.
And you take me the way I am.

I love this one because it really speaks to me personally. It's like my relationship with M. There are a thousand reasons why I would do anything for him, and he takes me as I am. Just reinforces the feeling that I feel lucky to be with him.

*By the way, the music video to this song by Ingrid is really cute.

Back from the Dead

2008-01-30T11:44:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't fall off the face of the earth. Although, I seriously feels like I did and hit every proverbial branch on the way down. That being said, let's get down to the nitty-gritty.

School has started once again. I hate that it has, but I was also getting really bored sitting around the house all day with nothing to do. It has been a little overwhelming to tell the truth. I am taking 17 credits this semester (something that I would never, ever, in my right mind do) but I am finding that it really could be a good thing for me. There is a constant and somewhat annoying pressure to stay on top of my school work. There is always an assignment I need to complete or prepare for. This is especially true because I had to miss the first week of classes for my surgery.

Oh yah. I had surgery. I had surgery almost 18 months ago. It was a basic Laporoscopy. They cut me open and took a look. Everything looked normal, but didn't help as it didn't explain why I was feeling so poorly. When I starting seeing this new doctor, she suggested that it was worth taking another look and possibly worth removing my appendix. It was so refreshing to finally find a doctor with a plan of action. So, I signed all the papers and let them open me up again. All of my girly parts looked normal, but my appendix looked that it was/had been recently infected. Good news! They actually found something wrong with me! I am just hoping that this was the cause of all my aches and pains for the last two years.

Since the start of the new year, I've also begun a new diet. People look at me and say, 'why?' and I say, because I felt bigger than I should be. Just because I look thin, does not mean I feel healthy. It is also more of M's idea. The poor guy has had a lot of trouble losing weight the last year or so. It's easier to make behavioral changes when you have a good support system. I am that to M. We have both lost at least eight pounds since the 2nd of January, and I feel so much better about myself! My stomach is seriously not poochy anymore, which I love, and I feel healthier. Our goal is to make it on our new diet until our vacation over spring break. That way we won't look like pregnant seals in our wetsuits!

I have found myself in a fascinating obsession. I do not know why I do this, but I have become very aware of my behavior in the last few weeks. I have become obsessed with my mother. M bought me a book for Christmasthat was recommended to me by my sisters called, "Motherless Daughters". I was astounded when I read the first page. The woman was writing about my life and how my mother's death affected how I see myself! Okay, she was really writing about her own experiences, but it might as well have been me. When I read it to M, he was just as surprised as I was. She went into such detail about the loss of the mother affects EVERYTHING about our lives as we get older. She said that she didn't learn a lot of 'girl' social cues (ie. how to chat endlessly on the telephone about absolutely nothing) and stated that she somehow couldn't really relate to other females. In fact, most of her friends were guys. Ha! How could she not be writing about me?! But the greatest part about this book is the fact that it talks about how grieving is a process.... and also that it's like a season. You don't just grieve once and get over it. There will be times that you wish she was there (ie. wedding day, birth of a child, etc) and you grieve everytime. Very fascinating.

I have also found myself trying to figure out who my mother really was. My sister was thoughtful enough to make us all booklets of memories that people had of our mother. She really was an extrordinary woman. The part I have trouble with is the need I feel to BECOME her. I have no idea why I think I have to do everything like she did. I remember that as a child, we had a book in our home called "Back to Basics". It really is a very informative book on how to enjoy traditional American skills. What cracks me up is that it's all based on country living. Hello! I live in the city. The book really isn't that practical for my situation. And yet, I find it necessary to own a copy for my own home. I feel pulled to do things that she used to do. I find myself thinking, "I should really learn to do this because she used to do it." I'm not saying it's a bad thing, I know that many of the things she enjoyed are worth knowing how to do, and I know that I could come to enjoy similar activities. But I think I should be more focused on finding things that I like to do. I should develop my own self--instead of trying to me into her. I envy her on so many levels, but I just don't think I could fill those shoes-- I would ultimately just be disappointed that I couldn't do half the things she could. But yet, I feel the pull.

Rock-a-Bye Baby

2008-01-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

This is a video of my neice, Peanut, at her Grandpa's house during the new years festivities. Again, sorry I'm such a retard. It hasn't dawned on me how to hold the camera while I'm filming so that I don't get sidewards videos! (I mean, I know how to do it, I just forget that the videos turn out like this....)

Nina Goes Sledding

2008-01-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's sideways. Tilt your head for a half-minute of glorious fun. (Also sorry the quality isn't very good.... it was freezing cold!)

A Happy New Year--2008

2008-01-01T18:17:00.000-08:00

For this new year, M and I went back down to my parents house for New Years. It was a lot of fun. I older brother was there with his wife and family too, so it was a packed house. The evening was complete with cranuim games, Uno, frappe', and new years kisses. The first day of the new year was filled with more of the same. It also held a day full of fun in the snow. The kids found a hill big enough to do some sledding on.
Speaking of Uno games, once again we were devastated by the card shark I call my father. Oh Yeah, and also by my four year old niece, Aubs.
M has become part of the furniture......

More Uno, anyone? (I wished I'd brought my Phase 10 cards!)
Meggy-Bug sledding down the hill. Okay, it's really a rock pile in the middle of Dad's farm, but it works!

Another visit to the doctors office

2007-12-29T10:14:00.000-08:00

The Friday before Christmas, I had another doctor appointment. M was kind enough to go with me. We went and saw yet another Gynogologist. It was very refreshing to talk to her. Although the news wasn't any different, she was a far better communicator then the last two or three doctors have been.
She told us that she wanted to take another look inside me at my girly parts. She also said that because I was experiencing so much pain on my right side, it could be my appendix. So, here's the news. I am having surgery, again. They are going to do a laproscopy like they did last year in september, and while I'm blown up like a balloon, they are going to go ahead and take out my appendix.
I do not know when my surgery date is yet because she has to coordinate it with a general surgeon (because they are removing my appendix), but I will be sure to let everyone know before hand. Probably sometime in mid January. I am hoping to get it done as soon as possible because I don't have to go back to school until after Martin Luther King Day, so it would be nice to have a week to recover before I start the 17 credit adventure.
The doctor also said that if that didn't fix whatever ails me, she is going to have me see my gastro-interologist for that colonoscopy I've been putting off. If that doesn't do the trick, then it's to a pain specialist.
It's not great news, but I feel better about everything since talking with her. All of the other doctors have just shrugged their shoulders. She doesn't know what is wrong either, but she isn't giving up on me and we even have a plan of action. It's just refreshing to know that there is help out there. Maybe I'm not alone after all.

Christmas

2007-12-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning-- doesn't M look thrilled?? The girls aren't excited at all.

M and I had a wonderful Christmas. We spent the holidays at my parents' house. It was fun because I got to show M all of the Christmas traditions that I grew up with. We went to my grandparents church for their annual Christmas Eve service and then to their house for appetizers. It was nice to visit with my Grandparents. M and Grandma have become 'book buddies'. They have been exchanging books because they enjoy the same authors.

After we got home, we opened our Christmas Eve presents. First, we opened the ornaments that my sister gives us every year. Ours were especially cute. They were both to remind us of our trip to the Cayman Islands where M took me diving for the first time. And then, the Christmas Pajamas. Oh what fun! I even took some photos!

Christmas Eve with Lainey. Yep, I can rock the pig tails!

The girls got matching Penguin Pj's

I thought this color of green would look good on M. I was right.

The traditional Christmas Eve picture of us in our PJ's in front of the tree...

Nina opening her sewing machine. Yes, MT got a sword.

Christmas Dinner. The Ham was to die for!

Christmas wouldn't have been complete without a visit from Karl and his fiance'. I had been taking a nap and when I walked into the living room, I didn't even notice she was there. Must mean she's already family. :D

Another Semester Over

2007-12-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

This semester I only had two finals. I took my first final in Pre-calculus on Monday afternoon. I am very confident that I did well and hope that I achieved a B+ grade in the class. I spent all of Tuesday studying for the final in my teacher's math class. This class covered a variety of subjects including probability, statistics, geometry, and constructions with compass and protractors. I was very nervous about taking the final for that class. It was optional. I could take the final in hopes of raising my grade, but there was also the chance that it would lower my grade if I did poorly. I couldn't decide if I should take the chance and the final. I was barely passing as it was. I took the final this morning and I feel that I did well. I don't think that it helped my grade, but I don't think that it hurt it either. I am glad that I took it. I feel like I did everything I could do.
I have been waiting for this semester to be over, and now that I have taken my second final, it is. It is a strange feeling. I still feel like there is something else I should be doing... but it's over. There's nothing left to do.

And now I can focus on CHRISTMAS! and my birthday. Oh what fun it is!

Dark Days

2007-12-10T10:12:00.000-08:00

I hate myself for being so weak. M says that he's tired of being the strong one in our relationship, and he's right. It's not fair. I wish that I could be more like him. It's like anytime I face something I'm not comfortable with, I freeze up. Actually, I curl up. and I just loose all control. Now, I don't mind a good sob now and then, but I hate the feelings I get when I lose it. I can't explain these feelings except that they make me hate myself.

I am so tired of feeling the way that I do. All of my health stuff that I'm dealing with just seems to be wearing me down. I don't feel like this will ever get better. I just don't feel right about it. M says that it's because I'm not being aggressive about getting better. He's probably right. He usually is. I just think that I am fighting a losing battle. It just has been dragging on for so long... two years practically. I am tired of this emotional rollarcoaster. I want off!

It just really gets me down when I try to make make sacrifices knowing that it's just going to backfire. I worry that I'm going to lose him. We've been through so much together, but I'll be the first to acknowledge that a person can only take so much. He says that it's only one aspect of our relationship... that he knows it will get better-- but I am not so sure. What if it doesn't?
For the first time last night, amid all the panic and frustration, I actually felt like we were losing each other. I have never been so scared/sad/depressed/angry/frustrated in my entire life. All I could do was sob. I knew he felt the same. But being the source of strength that he's always been, he talked me through it. As long as I live, I will never forget that night. I will never forget how he looked barefoot in his jeans and undershirt as we sat on the bathroom floor; fighting for us. Or how he was able to weather the storm first only to turn around and reach for me.

I know exactly where I would be without him. And I am glad he has saved me from it.

Snap Happy

2007-12-04T16:03:00.000-08:00

I swear Aubs was born with that look on her face!

Lainey and Becka

Nina and JT Jr

Grandma!

He's getting so big!

You've had a birthday, shout Hooray!

2007-12-03T19:51:00.000-08:00

Let's all sing happy birthday to the Birthday Girl!

Dad's Puppy Love

2007-12-03T19:03:00.001-08:00

This is a picture of my dad.... and Weenie and Fiesty. This was sooo funny because someone opened the front door and in ran the two dogs and both jumped into Dad's lap! Weenie is J.T.'s Dachsaund, but he LOVES Dad. I just thought it was cute and in the moment so I thought I'd share. Weenie is the big dog in the front. Fiesty is his darker daughter. She has more of a dark body like Squishy, her mom.

Birthday Party

2007-12-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

It's Lainey's 18th Birthday! Surprise!

She got a new watch.

...an Opal Ring from Grandma and Grandpa Peters...

a new fleece Jacket......

...some toe socks.....

...and some very grown-up perfume from Victoria's Secret! Oooo La La!

It's hard for me to think that my baby sister is all grown up and getting ready to go to college.

I can still remember when she used to scream and giggle her little bald head (okay, okay, she had some very blonde hair) off every time we turned on the Little Mermaid!

Cold season is here, believe me!

2007-11-29T14:13:00.000-08:00

Is it any surprise that I am sick again? I didn't think so.

M is on a business trip in Colorado this week, which is a good thing because I have had the worst cold ever.... well, except that one the M brought home with him on his last business trip. I felt it coming on the Friday after Thanksgiving and it hit me full force Monday morning. Now it's Thursday and I am starting to almost feel like I'm getting better.
I just hope that he didn't get my cold before he left. It would be really tough to be away from home, trying to work, and have a really bad cold all at one time. He works so hard to support us and I know how hard it can be even when he's feeling well. Poor boy. I miss him, but I know he'll be home late tomorrow night, so I'll be okay until then.

In other news, I found most of my pictures on my old laptop that I'd thought I lost when they replaced my hard drive... even my wedding photos and videos!!! I cannot tell you how excited I am! I feel like I have my life back. (*except the ones from my trip to visit my sisters..... :( )
And for those of my faithful readers who are still waiting for photos from Lainey's B-day, I will get those posted as soon as M gets back from his business trip.... because the camera went to colorado with him. Soon, I promise!

Turkey Day

2007-11-23T09:35:00.000-08:00

Dad, M, Puter and Peanut

M and I were able to celebrate Thanksgiving with family this year. In past years it has just been the two of us. It was a nice change. We spent it at my grandparents cabin in Idaho City. I hadn't been there in 7 years or so, and I had a tough time remembering how to get there, but we made it! Pretty much everyone was there from that side of the family with the exception of the older grandkids--the ones my age. Oh well.
There was lots of food of all different kinds. There were so many people that we didn't get turkey until the very end, and by that time we were pretty much stuffed, so we didn't eat too much turkey.
I was able to convince Dad, Puter, Lainey, and M to play a game of Phase 10 with me after dinner. We battled it out for a couple of hours with Dad coming out victorious. Eh, beginners luck! Poor Lainey was so far behind the rest of us, I don't know if she'll ever play that game with us again.
All in all, it was a really fun time AND I took pictures to share.

Aunt Lucky and Peanut

No family get together would be complete without the Hokey Pokey!!

Good News!

2007-11-17T11:39:00.000-08:00

I just saved a bunch of money on my car insurance by switching to Gieco!

No seriously, I just found out that my laptop is back in Boise from the repair shop. I don't think they deliever on Saturdays, but it gives me something to look forward to come Monday!

My brother, Karl, proposed to his girlfriend last night. She said YES! They are officially engaged and officially adorable together. I am really excited for them because they really do seem suited for each other. Yay, I get another awesome sister-in-law!

Hang on to your chairs... this one's a dosie. At 24, I'm going to be a step-grandma, or something like it. We were just told last night by Michael's oldest boy and his wife that they are expecting in June. I know that it must make Michael feel older, but I'm really kind of excited. I didn't think I would be.... but I couldn't be happier for the two of them.

Congrats Everyone!

The countdown is on!!

2007-11-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

Only 136 days until Spring Break and my trip to Bonaire with M. This will be our second Annual Scuba trip. Yay! If you would like to keep up to speed on this countdown, I've posted a counter just above our Scuba picture at the bottom of the page.

Oh, so I was going to put pictures from Lainey's 18th b-day party on here since I got my laptop back... but it's gone bizerk and I have to send it back, again. It will turn on now, but it makes this really awkward clicking sound that gets louder and faster the longer the dang thing is turned on... I promise to put some pics up here soon!

The Next Step

2007-11-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Sooo this is probably going to be an unpleasant post (about womanly bodily functions), so you don't have to read it if you don't want to....

I called and left a message at my doctor's office last Friday. I told the receptionist that I wanted my doctor to call me because I had questions about the pills I was on and about my general treatment. A nurse called me back later that afternoon asking if she could answer my questions about the medication since my doctor apparently doesn't work on Fridays. I had to come clean. It wasn't really the medicene I had questions about. I wanted to know what the next step in my treatment was going to be since the pills didn't seem to be working. She said that she understood and would have my doctor call me back on Monday.
I waited all day monday for a phone call. Nothing. So first thing on Tuesday, I called and left another message. Nothing. Not even a call from the nurse. So after their office hours, I called and left another message on their answering machine practically begging for them to call me. Do you think they called me? Nope. When I called them Wednesday during business hours, I didn't even get the receptionist... I was sent straight to the answering machine. I was tired and frustrated about my situation and the fact that I couldn't get them to call me back... so I let them have it.
I explained in great detail how I was supposed to be skipping my periods on the pill, but that I had such breakthrough bleeding FOR 10 DAYS that I was starting to get worried. It was like I was having a period when I shouldn't be... and for longer! I told them that I was aware that I was seeing a Physicians Assistant and that if she couldn't call me back that maybe her consulting Physician would be kind enough to give me a call. Bottom line? I needed to know what the hell to do! THIS ISN'T NORMAL! Please call me!
A nurse called me later that afternoon and apologized profusely for not getting back to me sooner. She said that she had spoken to my doctor and they had decided to put me on a different birth control pill. This new pill is designed specificly for women to not have any periods at all... you take a pill everyday and there are no placebo weeks. Before, I was taking just regular BC and skipping the placebo week.... I guess these new pills will prevent me from getting the breakthrough bleeding I had on the other ones.
I told the nurse that I had discussed with my doctor the possibility that this was a gasto-intestinal issue instead of a reproductive one. The nurse said that my doctor had told her the same thing and referred me to gastro-interologist. I am going to be making an appointment to go in for a consultation with her sometime next month (hopefully I will get an appointment that soon).
So these are the next steps I am taking to getting better. I am trying a new birth control pill better designed for skipping periods and I am in the process of making an appointment with a gastro-interologist. The only thing that worries me is the fact that I have to stop taking the birth control I am on. That always seems to mess up my system. Plus, I have had breakthrough bleeding for over ten days... and when I stop taking the pill for five days, I'm sure it will signal my body to have a regular period. That's a lot of blood.... I'm going to have to take some iron supplements before this is through.

Accepted!!!!

2007-10-29T12:50:00.001-07:00

I have had Elementary Education as my declared major for two years now and have been taking all of the core and lower division classes necessary, but one cannot take the upper division classes without first being accepted into the Teacher Ed. program. I received a letter in the mail from BSU this weekend and I knew in an instant it could only be one thing... my letter from the Teacher Education Program. With great anticipation I opened the envelope anxious to see what they had said about the application I submitted back in September. You always know it is a good thing when the first word you read is CONGRATULATIONS!

Yep... I am one step closer to my goal. Man, does it feel good!

So know I am looking at all the classes I have to take next semester. Not too bad, except that I am taking 17 credits which makes me nervous (I start to cringe at anything over 14). But I think my schedule can handle it. I will be taking Calculus, Elementary Art Methods (a night class... boo!), an Educational Literacy class, (in preparation for another test toward my certification), A Physical Education for Teachers class (on the importance of PE for developing bodies) and hopefully a Intro to Creative Photography class. It sounds like a lot when I type it out like that. I don't know if I will be able to handle the fun photography class on top of all the serious classes I have to take, but I'm hoping. It would be so nice to have a diversion..... plus I have been wanting to take it for so long.

I think I deserve a reward. = )