From my world to yours

I said Yes!

2011-01-09T13:05:00.000-08:00

So I know its been awhile... ok a LONG while and for those of you who follow my life through Facebook know that things are constantly updating and changing! I'm sorry for those of you who are avid blog followers and the lack of interest I have been putting towards this... but I think you will forgive me after the story(ies) i'll be sharing. So lets get to it...

I promise that I didn't get engaged after dating someone for a little over a month (which may be what some Facebook fans are thinking since I changed my dating status the begging of Dec that I was actually in a relationship). David and I met back in the beginning of June. I was dating someone at the time and David lived in California. We met through an acquaintance at a conference that was being held for our church in California. He found me on Facebook and we started chatting but like I said, (and he will confirm it) I sort of blew him off in the beginning because i was dating someone. I told him that I was definitely up for being friends but just didn't see anything else coming from it. We continued to chat through the month of June- by phone and text messaging. The relationship I was in fizzled and David and I continued to talk more and more. By the middle of August we were talking to each other at least 3 times a day. We had grown so close to one another simply by communication. To be completely honest we didn't have anything more than just the phone. For anyone who had done a long distance relationship can attest to the challenge it is. He flew out to Colorado the beginning of November where he met my family and told me he loved me. :) This is the start of the monthly traveling back and forth... I flew out to California the first week in December and had a wonderful time meeting some of his family and closest friends. We both were bummed that we weren't going to get to spend Christmas together but we had plans for him to fly out the second week in January and were just going to suffer through. Little did I know that he and my family had been conspiring to get him out here Christmas morning. We were at my sister Mandy's house opening gifts when all of sudden he came in and sat down- it took me several minutes to register he was there but once I did I screamed out of pure excitement. We had a great time together and I was pretty sad to see him go but knew it would be just a couple of weeks until I got to see him again. Fast forward to yesterday: David and I had planned to head up to Blackhawk (a town in the mountains) and spend the day up there. We had dinner plans in Denver with my sister and brother-in-law at 7:30 so we were planning things out to the very minute. David told me he had a surprise for me- an auction he had one online and found out the day before he won but it would expire before he got back out here again (I'm flying to Cali in Feb) so we needed to use it before he left. Saturday was our only day... we decided we would leave Blackhawk about an hour earlier than planned and spend an hour at this "surprise location" We had a great time in Blackhawk and we took off around 5pm. I was driving and following my GPS to get us back into town, as we were driving I was noticing signs of cities that didn't look familiar. I kept checking the GPS and it kept reassuring me I was headed in the right direction- back to Denver. 45 minutes later I realized we were driving completely in the wrong direction. I was pretty upset because I knew we were on a tight schedule. We quickly turned around and started heading in the right direction, only to run into stopped traffic due to an accident. I started to get really upset because not only were we not going to get to this "surprise" location, there was a chance we were going to miss dinner. David was really looking forward to the restaurant we were going to eat at (Elway's) and my sister had gone out of her way to get us reservations. Needless to say I was a brat for about 30 minutes of sitting in traffic. I was frustrated at myself, the GPS and David (which wasn't necessary). All of a sudden I get a call from my sister saying the restaurant called and had to move our reservation back to 8:30pm. Traffic started to move and it looked like we were going to make it to the "surprise" location. David and I switched seats and he had me put a blindfold on. He drove us to the "mystery" location and took my blindfold off. We were standing on the driveway of the home that I grew up in. You see, I lived in the same house from the time I was 6 until I was 21. The home held more memories than any other place in my life. My parents sold it when I turned 21 and moved into a different house. The first time David came out here I took him to the house (which was up for sale). I wanted to walk him through but all the doors were locked. When he took the blindfold off I was confused at why we were here. He told me how he wanted to see the inside, made a few calls to the relators (which was A LOT of work) and was able to get a time where we could come walk through it. He wanted to hear all the stories that had happened in this home and he wanted me to show him around. Remember it was 7:45pm- it was dark inside but the stairs were lined with candlelight, roses were sitting at the bottom of the stairs. We walked up the stairs and in my bedroom it was decorated with a stream of lights, two glasses with Martinellis, cut out hearts all over the floor. IT WAS BEAUTIFUL. Now I was completely oblivious as to what was happening. He does sweet things for me all the time so when he told me that he just wanted to hear the stories about the house I totally believe him. We knew were short for time so I actually started to clean things up. I was down on the ground picking up the hearts and he was telling me about a conversation he had with my sister the other day. He leaned down and grabbed my hand and pulled me up. Here we were standing in my old bedroom, with it completely decorated and him telling me some of the most sweetest things I've ever heard. He finally said, "That is why I hope you will say yes to the question, no that is why I'm begging and pleading you will say yes". He got down on one knee and pulled out the ring and asked if I would marry him. Of course I said yes. Long story short we cleaned everything up, drove to the restaurant where not only was my sister and brother-in-law there but the ENTIRE family. Of course everything was planned... the changing of the reservation, everything.

Needless to say, I'm in utter bliss right now! We haven't picked a date yet but tentatively thinking sometime in April or May. He is such a good man and I'm so blessed! I love him and cannot wait to be Mrs Jennie Trevino. I'll post a picture of the ring as soon as I can... those of you on FB have seen it.

Lots to share

2010-08-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

So for starters... I know I've been away for a while and part of the reason is because I am so frustrated with my blog that I can't even stand it. I swear I get it decorated all cute and then... I log back on and everything had disappeared. So I apologize to all you amazing bloggers out there that mine is so *blah*. I know for me, I check out a lot of your blogs because they are always decorated so cute, so I hope that some of you will continue to read mine even though it is dismal and sad.

Well I'm back and boy do I have a ton to share. Probably best that you grab a snack, a drink and a chair because you're going to be reading for a while. I'll try and cut to the chase of all my fun adventures over the summer so you can fully enjoy what I've been enjoying.

Lets see... where do I begin. Well the first few weeks of summer were kind of sad for me. I was in a funk and couldn't figure out what was holding me up. I realized that I wasn't feeling as though I was doing anything with my life. I was stuck in a rut and didn't have anything to help dig me out of it. So I decided to change things a bit and am happy with the outcome. Here are a few things that have been consuming my summer...

Boating.. my new favorite past time. I am blessed to have Michael in my family. My sisters boyfriend who has a love for boats and likes others to find that same love. (The man has 6 boats for goodness sakes). I spent almost all of May and July boating with him and my sister. So much boating that I was keeping up a nice tan and finding peace relaxing in the water.

Reading... another passion of mine. I've noticed almost all the girls in my family have been on this reading frenzy. I'm the slowest of the bunch. My sisters rapidly finish two books in the time it takes me to complete one. My excuse... they aren't reading text books on top of regular fun books. I used to be obsessed with buying movies (my wonderful friend Angie can confirm that)... but I've replaced that with an obsession of books. I LOVE going to the bookstore and picking up books from authors I've never heard about. I'll buy books even though I still have 14 to read. Here is a picture of my bookcase that is slowly being consumed with books. (Not really the best photo... but imagine those are all books on there).

Hiking... I went hiking a couple of times this summer and realized how much I miss the outdoors. Everything screams peace and quiet. I love working up a good sweat in the 90 degree weather (I'm really not kidding) and seeing nature at its finest. Unfortunately I'm not all that close to the mountains like I was in Utah so it takes some planning to get to hike.

Boys... Of course this is always factored into my fun. I've been spending time with cute boys who know how to make me laugh and smile. (For the record... I'm not dating any of these boys... sad day!)

School... though I don't have a picture of school I have been truckin' along with my classes. I am pleased to say that I've been keeping a 3.7 GPA and am getting closer to graduating. I know that many of you are chuckling to yourself and maybe even thinking "wow... you're just now getting your degree." Of course you are free to think that, but a lot is built into this "degree" something none of you may understand. So I am proud of myself.

Lastly, work! I mentioned a few postings ago that my job was disappearing. Frustrated, annoyed and concerned I started to panic a little. I worked diligently with my friend at work on a resume to start looking for something else. Then I had an epiphany... Target is a really good company. I have been with them for (gulp) almost 9 years. Though things haven't always worked in my favor they have supported me. I was presented with an option to promote with them. Be a manager in one of our stores. After weighing the pros and cons... I realized that this was a great opportunity for me. So I decided to start the interview process. I've completed 3 out of the 3 1/2 interviews and have had a lot of success so far. My final 1/2 interview is speaking with my Group Vice President. Its a 15 minute conversation with him and if I do good with that... I got the job.
A lot of changes will come with this... I'll be moving up north. (An hour north of Denver). I'll be getting a place of my very own... living by myself where I know no one. I'll be starting a new job, increase my salary by $20-30,000. I'll be working back in the stores (which I'm actually excited about) and I'll be getting a puppy (YEA!!) (This is a picture of our HR team at work... we went on a fun retreat and got to really experience some interesting things. )

So this is what my life is like right now... I am nervous but also extremely excited about the opportunities that are awaiting me. I was talking to a friend and I told him that its silly to try and plan out your life, because things always work out differently. I never thought that this is where my life would be, but I'm happy with it and happy with the decisions I've made. Good or bad, they've gotten me this far and I think things have turned out pretty good.

I've gotta have Faith...

2010-07-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

I have to have Faith... Nothing else matters. This simple statement popped into my head while I was twittling my thumbs a few hours ago. I've been on a whirlwind of emotions as of late and can't seem to find anyone or anything that settles them. Going to the bookstore helped and spending three weeks with my nieces also covered up the unsettling feelings I've been having. But now, I sit in a quiet house, left to my thoughts that are doing circles inside my head.

As I mentioned in my previous post, I've lost that desire or motivation to do much. I fear I gave the wrong impression to many of my friends as a handful of you reached out to me, ensuring I was ok. The warm words of advise that you each gave to me or simply knowing that you care was enough to bring a smile to my face. I need to correct myself here, as I don't want to give any of you the impression that I'm depressed or thinking of moving into a dark cave for eternity. I just think I hit that very large hill, actually a mountain in my life, and all I've been given is one of those toy shovels you find in the $1 section at Target.

Heavy decisions are laying at my feet right now... Though nothing has been said, I feel that I have a good chance staying on with Target, making more money in a management position... with the catch of moving back to Utah and going back to a store (rather than the office I've been content with for the last 4 years) in order for this to happen. If I choose to forgo this, I stay in Colorado, don't have nearly as good of a chance staying on with the company (and honestly I'm not 100% positive I want too) left to look for work here.

Success and growth with a well known company that will ultimately pull me away from my family again OR stay close to the most important thing in my life (family), risk loosing my job and having that feeling of total loss for what my future holds?

That is why... I have to have Faith. Nothing else matters.

Frustrations

2010-07-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

Its been a while since I've last visited my blog or anyone else for that matter. I feel bad that I've lost all desire to get on here and make an effort to be "involved". A lot has happened over the last several weeks, some good things and some bad things. More than anything I've lost a lot of motivation to do things. There has been a lot on my mind and it really has been trying on me. I am looking for the sun through the clouds and trying to see the good through the bad. I am hoping that over the next few weeks I won't loose complete hope and will find that fire to light underneath me. Typically I don't like to write about the negative things in my life, because I want my blog to be a place where people can laugh at the things I experience and find some peace of mind after reading what I write. Normally I would just let this blow over, pick something funny that has happened and not even bring up the frustrations in my life, but I promised my sister I would continue to write and so this is what is going on....

I found out that my current position is going to be moving up to Headquarters in Minnesota in March which is not something that I'm interested in pursuing. There has been a lot of conflicting information given to me and I'm starting to question if my time with this company is coming to an end. For the first time in a LONG time I have put my resume together and began taking a peek at what else is out there. I almost feel forced to do this, I really enjoy my job as a recruiting specialist and am sad that this is the step I have to take. I guess this is an opening door for me... as they say when one door closes another one opens. This may be a chance for me to start my life.

I've been focusing a lot on school. I have less than a year left until I will graduate with my degree. I know many people don't see this as the accomplishment but it really is. For more reasons than many of you will ever know, I have to find pride in this tiny chapter in my life. I am proud of my accomplishments thus far and can't wait until these online classes are over. They take up so much of my time that I spend about 10-15 hours a week just doing homework. I am loosing my motivation to work out and can see the effects of it. I typically try and make it a point to spend an hour at the gym but the last few weeks that hasn't been the case. I have the scale sitting in my bathroom and I'm afraid when I step on it, the thing will speak for the first time yelling "get off me fatso!" I miss writing and wish I could write about things that interest me and not on topics like "How can working in a team be a good thing"

Reading helps me move through these frustrating moments. I love to read and have been working through books left and right. (Speaking of this, I should write thank you letters to a few of my favorite authors). I've been spending a lot of time just by myself contemplating what it is that I'm supposed to do. I'm not the type of person who just expects things to happen for me. I'm a person who has to have a plan and will write that plan of my life if I have too. I don't want to wait and see what comes along. I want to make sure that I have a hand in where things go. I want to make sure that I'm ready for what God gives me.

If any of you have suggestions, places to check out for employment or other methods to find motivation I would really appreciate it.

Until next time my friends...

My minis!

2010-06-13T20:05:00.001-07:00

So I love my family, especially the little minis in it. For those of you who don't know I have a nephew Gunner who is 12, a niece Abbie who is 9 and a niece Taya who is 2. These three individuals make me want to pull my hair out 85% of the time I'm with them. Yet, I can't help but smile when I get to watch their baseball games, cheerleading competitions or simply when they are coloring.

So a few funny stories that I have to share with you all... (mothers you might get a little more entertainment out of these)

First my nephew Gunner.

When Gunner was younger (probably 4) he and my brother Travis were talking:

Gunner: "Travis, what is that?" (pointing to a cup)
Travis: "Poop in a glass"
Gunner: "Poop in a glass? No I don't think that is poop in a glass Travis"

Next my niece Abbie's story:

About a year ago my niece Abbie was standing outside on the playground with another little girl:

Abbie: "I dare you to pee your pants!"
Little girl: "ok" (and she pees her pants)

At this point you're not sure which one is worse... my niece for daring her or the girl who pee'd her pants on a dare.

Finally Taya's story:

Nothing that Taya has said, but she does like to put things on her head and run around (i.e. her underwear, her pants, her toilet seat cover, the usual)

Gotta love these little munchkins!

Who can help me!?

2010-06-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

So I need immediate attention to this blog... S.O.S

I can't figure out how to make my blog cute... Those of you who read this often and can provide your words of wisdom of how to get my MACbook to do all these exciting things, I would greatly appreciate it. I'm pretty sure that I'm the least crafty person there is and so I need step-by-step directions. Something like Blogging For Dummies!? I am looking for something like cute writing, fun backgrounds, and ways to do fun, swirls and girly things :)

Continue to let me work with this blog and we're going to end up with brown and orange and pink splats.

I need HELP! Please!

TV junkie!

2010-05-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

So this is just another one of those blogs that I sit and talk about TV shows! (Eventually you would think I would get tired of it... you're silly for thinking that). I've got to say that this season was a season of amazingly good finales. Of all my favorite shows I love, each ended with a few smiles, tears and fears. Below is a recap of the dozens of shows I watch (don't judge) beware some may have spoilers so avoid the recap if you haven't watched it yet.

MONDAY NIGHT

Dancing with the stars: I became addicted to this show after moving back home. (I'm noticing this is the case with a lot of these shows) My mom is a huge fan and I just barely started watching last season. I've got to say, it amazes me some of the dances they throw together. I love Derek and Mark. I think that they turn their partners into some of the most amazing dancers. This season (SEASON 10) I fell in love with Anna and Evan. (Yes I've heard the rumors that Evan is gay but I find him absolutely adorable). I was so sad that Evan didn't win the trophy. Nicole did deserve it and therefore I just wanted to wrap my arms around Evan and give him a hug. ;o)
(Just one little side note, if you've never watched it before, this season was worth it just to laugh at Kate Gosselin trying to learn how to dance. She is pathetic! HAHA)

TUESDAY NIGHT (Tuesday is a big night- almost as big as Thursday)

Biggest Loser: This season actually won my heart over half way through. I wasn't sold on the contests and had a hard time picking who my favorite was in the beginning. Eventually Sam on the gray team won me over with his big heart and I rooted him on. Unfortunately he got voted off, just a few weeks after my other favorite Stephanie. I hated Michael when he created the teams but eventually found it in my heart to forgive him. I was excited for the finale and excited that he won the title of Biggest Loser. I was amazed at how good they all looked. (I think I've said this every year). I've decided that this is one of my favorite reality shows and have joined our own Biggest Loser at work :o) Wish me luck!

Lost: The series finale! The show I've watched for 6 seasons. Never missing an episode. I'll be honest I got a little annoyed somewhere in the middle of this season with everything going on. I couldn't figure out how they were going to end the show this season, it seemed impossible. I felt so much was still hanging on the line. The series finale left me with a lump in my throat and a few tears running down my face. When all is said and done, I feel attached to these people and loved spending Tues/Wed nights with them. I am still "lost" in some ways but am thankful that I watched it through all these years.

THURSDAY NIGHT (Biggest night)

Project Runway: This was the first time I've ever watched this show and fell in love with it immediately. I couldn't remember any of their names until there was like 4 people left but I was eager to see what types of designs they would come up with. I was so impressed with how easy they made it look! I loved Seth Aaron from the beginning! Every piece of article he created was absolutely amazing! I had a HUGE smile on my face when he won! I am looking forward to the future seasons of Project Runway.

Survivor: This is another show that I watched like the first 4 seasons of and then totally lost interest in it until I moved home. Again, my mom is a huge fan and I found myself getting sucked into it the season before last. When they announced that they were continuing with the show and this time it was Heroes vs Villains... I knew I would end up watching it. I was easily entertained by the challenges they were faced with and the different schemes they would create to avoid being voted off. I was happy that Sandra won. I would have thrown up if for some reason Russell won and I would have been ok if Parvati had won. I thought that the hero's team were about as stupid as they come (any of you who watched it will know what I'm talking about). Don't you worry... they are having another Survivor start in the fall in case you were worried! (Yippee!)

Private Practice: Wow! So this was one of the shows that I wanted to start watching eons ago but never got the chance to. I heard it had a couple of bad seasons and then it really picked up probably two seasons ago. This was about the time I started watching it. I immediately fell in love with the characters and the story line (I even at times liked it more then Grey's Anatomy... especially this season). I was heart broken that Dell died! I bawled! I had such a crush on him and thought how awful it was for his daughter Betsy. I love the guy in the wheelchair and hope that Naomi pursues him. I was so ecstatic at the end of the episode when Addison FINALLY hooked up with Sam and Violet and Pete are working things out. LOVED IT!

Grey's Anatomy: Ok can we just say... this was one of the best season finales I have ever seen!? It is tied for best next to their 2nd season finale when Denny died. For two hours I was sitting on the edge of my seat stressed out! I could not believe how much happened within the first 15 minutes of the show! Grey's hasn't been my favorite lately (I'm not down with the lesbian love scenes) but this episode blew it out of the water! Simply fabulous! I saved it so I could watch it again in a couple of weeks. (Maybe I won't be so nervous now that i know what will happen).

So these are my shows. I watch others here and there if I'm with someone but as you can tell my list of only watching two shows has grown tremendously since I've been home! Its alright though, I enjoy watching them with my mom, and then calling my sister when they are done to get her thoughts on it all. It makes for great table conversation as I'm finding everyone in my family watches one or the other.

I'm a TV junkie... what can I say! ;o)

Spiritual Temper-Tantrums

2010-05-08T18:16:00.001-07:00

I meant to write about this awhile ago but it wasn't until recently that I sat down and really thought about the message that was shared. I was sitting in Institute a few weeks ago (institute is sort of like Bible study for those who don't know what I'm talking about). Our teacher shared this story with us that she had heard in another meeting, I will retell the story as if I heard it first hand...

I have a four year old daughter Anna who is always getting into trouble. Whether she is encouraging or participating she can't help but get her hands into something. She seems to be the worst for the three hours of church. She doesn't sit still, constantly screaming and running around. When i would try and sit Anna down or talk to her quietly, the alligator tears would fall down her cheeks and she would have one of the most high pitched screams ever (it wouldn't matter where we were either). I felt like the worst mother ever because I couldn't get Anna to understand the importance of sitting still and feeling the spirit. One Sunday morning I was pulling out a dozen of warm gooey chocolate chip cookies from the oven that I planned to take to my class. Anna came up and immediately wanted one. I decided to make her a deal, "Anna" I said, "If you can be good today in church for the three hours I will give you one of these cookies. That means you need to sit with your arms folded and listen to your teachers and to your dad and I. Do you think you can do this?" She got her normal look of getting ready to cry, "Anna if you cry right now you won't get one at all." She immediately held back her tears and said she could do it. For the four hours (30 minutes to church and 30 minutes back) Anna behaved perfectly. She sat quietly and behaved greatly. When we arrived back home, I grabbed two cookies for Anna. I felt that she really deserved a reward for how good she was today. Anna came up to me and asked if she was good enough for a cookie. "No Anna...." (she couldn't see the two cookies in my hand) Immediately the alligator tears formed and the high pitched scream took over. She sat on the ground and pounded her fist. "Anna, " I said "I was going to give you TWO cookies because you were so good, but you were to quick to assume what i was going to say, and now you don't get any."

My teacher added in her thoughts around this story... we at times have our spiritual temper-tantrums. We don't wait to see what the Lord has in store for us because all we hear is "No". How many times do we throw temper tantrums because we aren't at the point in our life we thought we would be or because we haven't gotten all the blessings we think we deserve. The Lord is going to say No to us at times only because he has something better in store for us. If we would take a minute and just listen rather then jumping to conclusions we will hear that there is so much more for us!

I just really liked this story!

All the in between...

2010-05-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

I haven't really felt like blogging much lately... I don't know if its the bitterness inside me that nothing exciting has really come along and I refuse to continually share with the blogging world that my life is just that... boring. It may be the fact that I had a really exciting first few weeks of April (my trip to Utah and Cali, getting to spend time with good friends) and then after getting settled back into my old ways, I yet again realized that nothing exciting is happening in my life. I was going to just type that this is my life, I go to work where I spend almost 8 hours staring at a computer and talking on the phone. I then drive to the gym which is 45 minutes away from my house and work out, then I come home and do homework and of course catch up on all 40 reality shows i've been sucked into.... these our my days. So what is this blog about... all the little things that happen every so often that help switch my days up a little.

The Dentist

I went to the dentist a couple of weeks ago... it had been a while since my last visit (3 years to be exact). They did their regular checkup (only 1 cavity which I think is pretty good since I hadn't been in so long!). I've never been to a dentist where they ask you a question that is much more then just a yes or a no while they have their fingers half way down your throat. This dentist was no different then the rest. At the end of my visit my dentist says to me... "Did you have braces?" I proudly smile, "Why yes I did..." (assuming he was going to compliment me on what a great smile I have). 'Well" he says, "It looks like you've got this and this and this we need to fix... it might not be a bad idea to think about braces again."

Long story short... It looks like the braces are going to be put back on for a year... So much for the hot dates I'm going to get with these bad boys on.

My Job

So one thing that Target can always promise you... is change! They are always changing something behind the scenes. Well one of the big changes that has been speculated of happening is moving my current position up to our headquarters location in Minnesota. What you say!? Yes, from talking to my peers we are all under the same speculation that by this time next year we all will either be living in Minnesota or finding a new job. For me... I have no intentions of moving to Minnesota. They have ice storms. Enough said. So what do I do... well they have suggested a few options to me, something i'm not 100% sold on. So it looks like i'm dusting off the ol' resume and seeing what magic will happen with it. I'm not opposed to moving back to Utah, if the job was right and paid me enough but I'm happy in Colorado... shocking at it may sound to some, I am. We'll see what happens. (PS... if any of you wealthy souls out there who read my blog have some advice... or just want to give me money, I'll take both)

My 26th Birthday

In two weeks I will be 26 years old... a time in my life where I assumed so many different things would have happened by now. Four years until 30, six years past 20. I told my mom that I was going to hide in my room that day, dress in all black, close the blinds and let no happiness come in. (I'm kidding.. well sort of). I can't believe I'm going to be 26 years old (May 17th people). This is a life altering time in my life... I decided to accept 25 only because it was sort of a big deal to be 25... but to be 26, it may cause me to throw up a little. Welp, I guess I gotta get my priorities straight, either be fit by 26 or be in a size 26. Find a good man (yes, I'm still sort of dating the 21 year old... shhhh!) and do something with my life.

So these are the small things that are circling through my mind. On a side note at work we sit on the yoga balls instead of chairs (supposedly it works your core). My boss and I find enjoyment seeing the various ways we to position ourselves on the ball without falling off. (We're pretty productive at times).

Here's to the in between...

Let the good times roll!

2010-04-23T23:35:00.000-07:00

I'm back in the cyber world... wow it has almost been a month since I last jotted some thoughts down here on my blog and that is pretty much unacceptable. A few things have happened since my last entry and I'm pretty excited to share it with you all.

FIRST:

So the last vacation I went on was to Utah back in November for about 5 days. Many of you may be thinking "It wasn't THAT long ago since your last vacation" but to me... it felt like years!! I literally couldn't wait until this upcoming vacation to California with some close friends the beginning of April. I patiently waited, day by day tearing off one of those homemade link chains until the day I left for vacation. (ok I really didn't do that but it probably would have been fun).

My first stop was to Utah... my friend Jenn and I actually flew out of Denver in the same terminal, two gates away from each other both headed to Utah. We had to get a photo together (Jenn's next stop after Utah... Paris, France... nothing big! and yes they got stuck by the ash).

I met up with some girlfriends for an eventful girls night out... we ate at the most delicious Italian restaurant in SLC.

I stayed with my friend and old roommate Kellyanne for the few days I was there. I met up with my wonderful friend Natalie and her little mini Brooklyn and then ended the Utah trip visiting the oldies (old roommates) for breakfast.

I had a great time catching up with old friends in Utah but I do have to say I was super excited to head to the beaches and palm trees of California. We took off Wednesday morning and immediately were welcomed by the beautiful sunny weather. I got to enjoy 6 days in pure bliss!

We visited downtown Disney a couple of times within the first two days to ensure we didn't miss out on any of the festivities Disneyland had to offer! (Don't be jealous of the hats... they had more) We also enjoyed the delicious food (might I add a little fattening as well! Hot chocolate: 968 calories.. ya I consumed that)

We found some down time where we decided to be crazy (well actually only Christal decided to be crazy) and get a tattoo.

It was shortly after that we were able to enjoy the goodness of the trip and visit Disneyland! We had to wait in long lines where our feet hurt and our tempers were rising (ok not really because Disneyland is the happiest place on earth) but we had the most fun 4 people could have.

We spent a couple of days in Disneyland and then one day in Universal Studios... the lines were so short we couldn't help but be excited about that! There were also moments of pure fright as we prepared to plunge down the 85ft cliff on the jurassic park ride! We also took the movie tour (I don't remember what it was called) but this last picture is from the movie war of the worlds (worst movie ever) but it was cool to see everything still in tact.

The last day was overcast but we were determined to hit the beach! We enjoyed the water (Tony a little more then anyone else)

Here we are saying goodbye... we can't wait until next year when we head to the beaches of Hawaii!

Cougar in the house?

2010-03-27T00:56:00.000-07:00

I've been a little hesitant about posting this but simply couldn't hold out for too much longer because its my life and I need others to find the humor in it as much as I do.

Its been said there comes a point in a woman's life where the older men just don't do it for them anymore. These men become old, wrinkled and unattractive. Even if they can win you over with the money they have its just not enough. At some point in a woman's life she starts to search for the younger, hotter men. She no longer is able to find enjoyment by the successful older men. We all know these young guys, the ones who are fit, attractive and have that amazing charisma about them. They live a carefree and fun life. Hmmmm....

Well, somewhere in the course of just a couple of weeks I unknowingly stepped into this world. A world that society knows best as "Cougar Town". I need to back up for a minute (hold in the giggles please)...

At my current place of worship (aka the branch I attend for church) I haven't been the most popular with the girls. For the first few months I hated even going and went with my parents to their ward. I would switch back and forth spending one week at the branch and the next at my parents. One week while attending the branch, I was sitting in Sunday School, yet again by myself (I know, dry your eyes my friends... this is supposed to be funny). A cute guy came and sat next to me. Now, according to a couple of friends, I know how to flirt without even knowing I'm doing it. I guess this was one of those situations. I started small talk, learning about him, getting all the details. Then came the final question before I turned on the "flirting" I could control. "So, how old are you?" (I was going to guess 24) "I'm 18" He responded.

What!?

Needless to say, I didn't let that stop me (sick! I don't mean it like that people)... I immediately felt this sense of motherly love come over me. The last couple of months I was in Utah, I became good friends with a 20 year old. I have this desire to take them under my wings and to mold them into the perfect man for some other girl. So that's what I've done... Daniel has become my best friend out here. He just turned 19 and got his papers turned in for his church mission. I honestly can say he will be amazing, and I surely will miss our laughs when he is gone.

So what does this have to do with being a Cougar? Well one Sunday night Daniel and I were sitting in my car talking about life, love and the pursuit of happiness while laughing uncontrollably about some of the dumbest things. It was here when he asked if he could kiss me!? (No i'm not kidding). I laughed and had to share SEVERAL reasons why I wouldn't let him kiss me. I tried giving alternate names of young girls in the branch that he COULD kiss, explaining that I was a BIT older then him, and plus we were too good of friends but it came to no avail. He gave continual push back, full of the typical pre-missionary request, needing to"fill the canteen" before he goes (Jeremy this is YOUR fault). After much discussion, I finally kicked him out of my car (we were both laughing) and pulled away listening to him sing at the top of his lungs in the middle of the street "I wanta kiss a girl". Oh Daniel!

Round #2 of Cougarville: Back to my little branch, I have about 4 close guy friends that I spend all my time with. Daniel (19), Tyler (21), Jeremy (23) and Jeremy (26). The number next to their names is their age. Tyler is my workout buddy, he just got home off his church mission and he loves to share stories about it. He is such a cute guy and I can't help but feel closer to the gospel when he is around. We go to the gym about 4-5 nights a week and I'm slowly introducing him to Yoga (he'll thank me someday). So what happens, Tyler asks me out on a date and I love spending time with him so I go. Long story short the date was great and he kisses me.

Yep, I'm a cougar. Tyler leaves for Utah in a month to go to school, so i'm just enjoying the time I get with these boys. "Relishing in the moments!" (and boy am I relishing). Its a 5 year difference people... just enjoy it with me...

I'll be a hot cougar for a little while. :o)

Ummm... just a bunch of nothing...

2010-03-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

Please be aware... this post has nothing of substantial value... in fact, its just a bunch of words put together on a blog... read only if your only other choice is to watch paint dry, but that might be a little more entertaining...

So I am still going strong with my "ah-ha" moments. I've really been taking pride in the fact that I'm not worrying about the future, just living in the moment. My friend Tasha's words of "relishing in the moment" has never rang more true.

BUT...

I do have one small comment to make about MEN. I never realized more then this weekend how they think with the lower half of their body and don't seem to do too much thinking with that thing called A BRAIN.

Now, I've been chatting with a handful of guys and it always amazes me the things that they say without thinking. I had a guy text me and let me know that he had a really funny story to tell me and needed to call me. This is a guy that I've been talking to for awhile online, he lives in TX and so though I enjoy talking to him (for the most part) I don't put too much thought into where its going to go because we're 1000's of miles apart. So what is this "funny" story he had to tell me? A text message he received from a girl who wanted to spend time with him and he hadn't heard from her in awhile and she lives in Utah.

Yep that is the funny story... I'm laughing in the inside like I'm sure all of you are doing...

So what was the point of that story... why share it with a girl that you've been talking to? Was he hoping that he could make me jealous... my advice... going to need a better story then that ;)

I've got guy friends that constantly tell me about the women that want them, and I know girls do the same but I've never been one to brag about myself. I just don't find it attractive and i don't really know who does.

I've always wondered how God thought Men and Women could co-exist on the same planet.

I hate Wednesdays and that is tomorrow... I pray every night that Wednesday will be taken off the calendar. Even on the calendar after Monday and Tuesday the next three are W T F... enough said!

I've been addicted to stupid TV shows and I get sucked into the drama and find myself stressing over who will be voted off next. I am going to cause myself a freaking ulcer from these dang shows!

Best news of all... I've got a wonderful 10 day trip planned the beginning of April! Utah and California! Bring on the beautiful weather :)

That's it... that's the post I've got for you. I promise they will get better... I'm just going through my "zen-ing period, becoming one with the world" haha! Or I just have nothing else to write about.

Peace out until next time!

"ah-ha" moments

2010-03-07T18:34:00.000-08:00

I've started this entry about 7 different times and keep hitting the delete button. I can't seem to get my thoughts out the last few days. I'm realizing what its like to have "writers block". My mind feels like water with a dam standing in its way from flowing freely. There is so much I want to share and yet, I can't get it written down. (its somewhat irritating if you really want to know!) I love to be creative in my writing and have been wanting to update my blog for the last week but just haven't known what to share with all you kind folks.

So I've decided to just write, I don't always have to have something amazing or creative when updating my blog. Its perfectly ok to just write a few thoughts down, and share my wow moments with each of you.

This week has definitely been one of those "ah-ha" moments. It was such a moment that I wished I would've understood this several years before. In fact I've had two "ah-ha" moments and they have definitely put a new smile on my face. Two separate occasions, two people who have never met each other, two separate sentences that opened my eyes. I was reminded to "Relish in the Moment". Enjoy what you have now because life is always changing. My next is, "I wouldn't change anything in my life, even if my life didn't turn out just how I imagined it, I wouldn't have met the people I've met and these are the people who have made me who I am."

Just enjoy each moment and the people you get to enjoy it with you.

I know each of you are one step ahead of me in just about everything and probably thinking "Dude, Jennie... this isn't worthy of an Ah-ha moment". For me these are the "ah-ha" moments that opened my eyes.

The End

2010-02-21T21:30:00.001-08:00

Very short and to the point... in fact I don't think I've ever written a blog this short (dear Lord you know somethin' is wrong then). Some of you (my faithful followers) may have noticed a few changes on my facebook page. I will end your gossiping and questioning and share with you the facts...

I called it quits with Cody.

It was something that has been keeping me up at nights and a decision that wasn't easy to make but it was for the best. I won't share the details, (too long and too much to tell) but it just wasn't right.

I guess I'm starting fresh, its not the most reassuring feeling but I'm hoping that in time something with start working out. I'm still crossing my fingers to become the first Mormon Nun, but for some reason, I don't think that is possible (not my choice, but Gods) :)

Love and Tacos

2010-02-09T21:26:00.001-08:00

So this is a little behind schedule, I had all intentions of getting this out sooner but things just kept taking precedence over it (watching the tv show the Bachelor, filing my nails, or watching paint dry on the wall) but I finally got a minute at 10:33pm to type a little note.

So Sunday was the Superbowl and although I didn't know much about either of the teams I am a sucker for the underdog in any situation. I also found a new passion rooting on the New Orleans Saints because Cody was passionate about the Colts deserving to win. So we made a tiny bet but let me back up a for a sec...

Cody and I were driving around one day discussing the ways of life (it was pretty deep) and we got on the conversation of Valentine's Day. Me being a girl and it being our first holiday I wanted to celebrate! Now normally, Valentine's Day isn't something that I'm that passionate about but after hearing Cody's rantings about how stupid of a holiday it is and its a "girls" holiday I made it a point to say that it was SUPER IMPORTANT to me (I love teasing) :) While discussing Valentine's Day and going back and forth with why its important (or isn't important) he also had a craving for Taco Bell. Now Taco Bell was rated to have the lowest quality meat in any fast food restaurant chain. (I still want them to take a look at Bettos in Utah). I hate Taco Bell... it makes me want to vomit! He doesn't understand why I have such a distaste for it because he thinks you can get some quality meals from that place.

This is when the bet came into place... We decided to put up a little wager for the upcoming game. If the Colts win the Superbowl, I would drop my argument about Valentine's Day, agree that its an overrated holiday AND go with him to Taco Bell allowing him to choose my meal. Now, if the Saints win... he has to go all out and be excited about Valentine's Day. Claiming that it is a great holiday.

This was also a special Superbowl because Cody was meeting my family. Long story short we had a great time with the entire family (well except my bro wasn't there) but we laughed, joked, teased, going back and forth being stressed then finally... to pure bliss when the final score appeared on the screen. :)

Bottom line.... the Saints won!!! (in case you didn't know). Cody says that he still gets to choose dinner for our Valentine's Day celebration...haha!

(PS, he really isn't so negative towards the holiday... just likes to tease as well) I'll let you know how everything goes when we celebrate it.

February love

2010-01-31T20:12:00.000-08:00

Don't be silly... I'm not in love, but I sure fooled all of you by the title. I can't believe that January is gone already. Not sure about any of you, but I feel like the month just disappeared. I'm not complaining though, January has been a fabulous month, but I am VERY excited for what February holds and lets not forget the months after that. Right about now I'm comparing myself to a fat kid in a candy store with a pocket full of money. Sheer joy fills my insides as I stare up at every single piece of deliciousness and knowing that I can have any, OR, all of it if I choose to do so. I have so much sitting at my feet that it's hard not to have a smile on my face. So I title this entry "February Love" because I truly am in love with everything knocking at my door.

FEBRUARY EVENTS

-LOST final season (hopefully we can get some answers!)
-Lots of birthdays... my sisters, my dads and CODY's!!
-Valentine's Day
-Meeting Cody's family and he is meeting mine
-Starting my second class (finished my first class with flying colors)
-Planning two very exciting vacations... Disneyland in April AND New Zealand in October (final plans are in the works).

Just for the record... everything is going fabulous with Cody! He has been wonderful and I can't wait to continue to see where things go. (Take that jinxing man!)Below are a couple of pics from our date this weekend. I look rotten but I wanted to get some photos up. We'll take better ones soon.

The Jinxing Man

2010-01-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

So there are certain topics that I refuse to blog about for my own personal reasons and one of them happens to be my dating life. I guess I sorta believe in the whole "jinxing" power and if I open my mouth and say what I'm thinking, I'm basically shooting myself in the foot. My hopes, dreams, wishes won't come true. Its as if by keeping it strictly in my mind, its hidden from the jinxing man who's sole purpose in life is to take what you want (or don't want) and ensure that just the opposite happens.
Many of you have been asking for details about my recent postings on facebook. This is a bit of a challenge for me, so I hope each of you appreciate the chance I'm taking here by opening the door ever so slightly; going against everything I believe and sharing some secrets about my most recent dating life. If things don't work out I'll believe solely in that jinxing man.
When I moved to Colorado I was afraid that my dating life would go down the drain. I had very few friends here to rely on in hopes that they would set me up with their charmingly, handsome, single brother. So I was left with nothing more then taking matters into my own hands. I swallowed my pride and joined a dating website. I was very hesitant at first and even more hesitant to tell people. The more I opened up about it (especially at work) I found that every person I talked to knew someone who had met their husband online and they were happily married. So I started to feel more comfortable. I became more flirtatious in my emails (I know some of you are wondering how that is possible), and really went into each blind date with a positive attitude that something would work out. Guy after guy, date after date it was a hit and miss. I would go on a couple of good ones, a couple of bad ones and every so often a horrible one (sushi anyone!?) Rather then getting super upset (ok Holly, I know I did call you a few times when I broke down) but other then that I kept going.
That's when it happened. I was online and sure enough found Cody. Here are some stats about him and crazy as it is, I know his cousin pretty well and my sister knows his family super well (His aunt and uncle go to the same ward as my sister).
*He is 28
*Blonde hair/blue eyes
*6'2"
*An adorable smile
*Member of the church
*divorced
*has a daughter
*working on becoming an EMT
*Treats me like an angel

We've gone out 4 times, (5th date is this Friday). He has kissed me and has told me that he wants to continue to go out with me. (All good signs right!?) So, I'm enjoying our time together... he keeps me laughing and we have a lot of fun. I don't know what will happen, maybe the jinxing man will get to me first before anything more happens with Cody, but I'm enjoying my time now and not too worried about the future... things will happen the way they're supposed to happen. They always do.

I don't have any photos yet of Cody and I (I left my camera in my other purse when we went to the Nuggets game!) So I stole some from his profile and posted them below... Thanks sweetie :) (sorry they are small)

New Years tradition

2009-12-30T20:52:00.000-08:00

It wouldn't be me if I didn't type out a few New Year's Resolutions... its very typical of me to make resolutions and even more typical of me not to keep them. I seem to fall into the same pattern each year... Enthusiastic, energetic and determined to accomplish everything that I didn't get to last year. By June, I've forgotten what I started the year off with. Resolutions are meant to be kept, a change we're supposed to make that will ultimately make us better then we were last year in all different areas. And isn't that the whole reason we're here... to become better people? So this new year, new decade, my resolutions are going to be kept. It may take me longer on some but I'm going to accomplish them. Think of this list as a short bucket list to what I eventually plan to do with my life.

I hope each of you have a very Happy New Year and that each of you are able to make that initial step to becoming a better person then you already are (which will be difficult for a lot of you since you're already pretty darn good people!)

Resolution List:

*Write in my journal at least once a month (end of the month to be exact so that someday I can look back and remember these days)
*Run at least a 5k each holiday that they offer one
*Run the Boulder Boulder (10k) in May
*Read the New Testament
*Learning something new... anything just something new
*Finish at least one of the books I started typing.
*Get at least a 3.7 GPA in my classes
*Volunteer at a retirement home
*Go Mountain Biking
*Pay off credit card
*Read more books- even ones that I may not find interesting
*Learn more about the world/government
*spend less money on necessities that I don't need
*get a place of my own

Shoes

2009-12-20T16:01:00.000-08:00

I know its a bit ridiculous but I'm in love with these shoes! Now I've been seeing ads in almost every magazine that I flip through but it wasn't until just recently when I realized I need these shoes. I thought that I would be able to casually walk into any local athletic shoe store and make this fabulous purchase. I entered my first store and took a quick lap around the store, even shocked that I would need to do this. Quickly asking a sales associate "Where are the Easy Tone Reebok shoes?" I expected a quick point to their location and I would be on my way. "I'm sorry we don't carry those shoes". "Oh, ok" A little surprised, I shrugged my shoulders and figured I would just head across the street to the next store and make my purchase there. I soon realized that finding these shoes wasn't going to be easy. "We don't carry them" or "We're out of stock on them" was the common theme I heard.

It became an obsession for me... I was determined to find these shoes. Ordering online turned out to bring dismal results as well. I need these shoes. Sleeping is no longer an option. I have checked over 15 stores, searched 10 different websites and still am left empty handed.

and then...

One store came through... Dicks sporting goods store. Location: 30 miles away. Store opens: 7am. What time will I be there: 7am.

I'm getting these shoes.

A few new reads

2009-11-28T19:16:00.001-08:00

I love to read. I love opening a book and literally feeling like I'm there in the scene, experiencing what I'm reading in real life. I've had more free time on my hands so I'm going through books a lot more quickly. I have to say its a little ridiculous how much I enjoy reading... its an addiction. All I want to do is fall into the world I read about and the lives that have been written with such detail.

My most recent infatuation started a couple of weeks ago when my fabulous friend Jenn from work introduced me to a few books she had just completed. They are written by the author Emily Giffin and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoy her books. I started with the novel Something Borrowed. I have become obsessed with her writing style. She brings the story to life in such a way where you feel like you are standing in the room with the characters; sharing the emotions that they feel, seeing what they see. I read the book in about 5 days. Jenn promised me the sequel Something Blue and just like the first I was sucked in. I'm excited to know that Emily has written several other books that I can't wait to divulge.

-Thanks Jenn for sharing with me such a great set of books!

Things to be Thankful for

2009-11-28T18:10:00.000-08:00

Each girl experienced it as a child... the pants on the head, running around, pretending that the legs were locks of hair flowing over their shoulder. It may have been more common for girls with short hair, but at one point in each of our lives I think we were guilty of this act. It was quite common to see my sisters running around with their favorite pair of stretchy pants, tied up in a rubber band. My youngest niece had her 2nd birthday this week and already she started this. I couldn't help but take photos of her with the pants on the head and then a few others that are just adorable...

I started thinking when I began this entry, how thankful I am for family. For the innocence of the children in my life. Their free spirits and unwillingness to get upset for too long. I am thankful for the friends that support me each day. Even the ones that I haven't stayed super close to (to those of you, I'm going to try better this upcoming year). I know that they are in my corner; pushing me to my fullest potential. I'm thankful for the challenges I have in my life, usually I am unwilling to accept them but I know that they only teach me how to become a better person then I was yesterday. I'm thankful for the simple things in life; the country I live in, the job I have, the bed I sleep in. I'm thankful for the things I don't understand, because I know that God is in control and eventually everything will work out the way it's supposed to. So on this Thanksgiving, I know that more then ever I am blessed.

"What a world it would be if we could forget
our troubles as easily as we forget our blessings."

Utah Visits

2009-11-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

So it seems a little odd that I went and visited Utah after only being away for about a month. Well it all began when my old roommate Kellyanne and I planned to attend the Dashboard Confessional concert. We hit it up last year and had one of the best times of our lives (at least mine... see blog on concerts) :) So I booked my tickets back out to Utah, took the time off of work and planned the visits to see many important people to me. That's when the news hit... the phone call from Kellyanne saying that "Dashboard canceled their concert" I was devastated, reached for a brown paper sack to breath into, counted to 10 (ok it wasn't that bad) but I had to make the decision on whether or not I should still go through with the trip. My whole point was to go to their concert and now that it was canceled, I contemplated staying in Colorado. I had plenty of work to do, could save the money and vacation hours but I missed my friends terribly and needed a little break so Utah and me were one again...

Here is Noah and me (my friend Sam's son) I want to gobble him up!

My dear dear friend Sam and her little man Noah!

This is me holding my friend Tanya's new little mini! Oh my goodness he was just a little piece of Heaven!

Tanya and her mini(Rocco Manoni)

I went out with my favorite couple Angie and Tony on Friday night!! We had so much fun going to FYE... Tony finally got to see Angie and I in action and help with the decision process. I adore them and hope someday I have a relationship as good as theirs!

I went out to lunch with my sweet friend Diana!!

This picture is old but my wonderful friend Christina hooked me up with an hour long massage at her school! It was amazing (especially since it was my first one)

And of course... my fabulous girls! We got pedicures, went to dinners, made up new games and had a great time!

Thanks for nice relaxing and fabulous weekend friends!

Snow storms

2009-11-18T20:08:00.001-08:00

I meant to blog about this earlier but just barely pulled my pictures off my camera. I was reminded that not more then a month ago this weather is what welcomed me home. Could you believe that we ended up getting 23 inches worth of Snow! It snowed straight for 48 hours, trapping every living being inside. Don't you worry though... this weather wasn't trapping me in. I was being defiant, determined to not let a little snow get me down! Ironically this was the same week that my trainer for work flew out from Kansas (leaving 70 degree weather) to train me. I had promised her the week prior to her flight that I would get her to an outlet mall so she could enjoy the wonderful world of Coach, Guess, Ed Hardy, etc So Rebekah and I drove 15 miles/per hour to the mountains. A drive that was normally supposed to take 35 minutes took us 1 hour and 10 minutes. As we were pulling off the exit Rebekah says to me "Wouldn't it be funny if they weren't even open!?" I gave a little chuckle realizing that Oh my heck that could very well be the case.

Sure enough... not a single car sat in the parking lots of the outlet mall. Why we never thought this through before we made the journey is beyond me, but what shocks me even more is when retelling this story... everyone's comment was "Oh I figured it would be closed with all the snow falling". Really? Really? You knew but choose not to share this small piece of information with us?

So we drove a total of 2 hours round trip to eat at a Qudobas at the Castle Rock Outlet Mall. Lets just say, we got some good talking done.

Life is good

2009-11-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

So I've been out of touch for the last month and for those of you who only know about my life from reading my blog I will let you know that LIFE IS GOOD. I've been in Colorado for about 3 1/2 weeks and its strange to think that time has passed that quickly. I am really enjoying my new job and am very thankful that I choose to take it. I think that its definitely more my style. I am also very thankful to be close to my family. They have been very good to me and I can I honestly say if for no other reason, moving back to Colorado to be close to my family was well worth it. Don't get me wrong, I miss my friends terribly and wish that I had more out here but I figure maybe a few more weeks and I'll make some.

I won't lie and I'm not proud... I joined a dating website (I will leave the name out of it) and have actually met a handful of decent guys. They definitely provide entertainment and I get a boost of confidence when I see that my "profile" has been checked out over 500 times in two weeks. I'll keep you all posted if I meet any crazy's or have good stories to tell. Till then... I am alive, I'm doing well, and LIFE IS GOOD!

See you all soon...

WICKED

2009-10-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

I know I am a little slow in experiencing the wonderful world of musical/play spectrum, but I can't help but blog about the amazing time I had seeing the musical WICKED.

I am a little old school and ashamed to admit that I had no idea what Wicked was about. I knew it was about the wicked witch of the west but honestly couldn't tell you much more then that.I was able to go on Friday with my mom, sisters and my niece. We started the evening off with dinner at Bubba Gumps (based off the movie Forrest Gump) and then hit up the musical right after. We found some humor comparing my sister Mandy to Galinda... especially in the scene when she holds up the mirror after the song Popular and says "Oh hi" I've included a few photos below. It was great to share the evening with the girls :)

A tribute to Utah

2009-10-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago I drove 500 miles to a town called Provo, UT. I was 18. Young,stupid and unsure of what my life would end up being.

I never imagined what it would be like, living on my own, supporting myself being what you would call "an adult". In all honesty though, I still wonder sometimes if I could be considered that.

I spent these seven years learning. Each person coming into my life for a specific reason at a specific time. Teaching me something that I wasn't able to learn from anyone else. Helping me along this so called path of life and giving me instruction on how to endure the world when it comes at me. To these people I am ever grateful for. I am thankful for the good and the bad people in my life, because they made me who I am today.

Its crazy to think that in a way I'm ending this chapter of my life. Moving back to Colorado seems awkward, weird, unfamiliar. Its a change that I am willing to make, but hesitant about the unknown.

To Utah: Thank you for the seven years, thank you for the memories. I'm going to miss you. I'll be out to visit...

To Colorado: Lets Roll!

Music

2009-10-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

I've been addicted to music lately... any chance I get I search for a new song to download or go through the old ones that I have and fall in love with them all over again. I am on this "artistic" kick right now so I'm addicted to reading, writing, and listening to music. I pretty much push everything else to the side and make these three things my top priorities. Here are a couple of songs that I recently have fallen in love with...

"Fireflies" Owl City
"Hear you Me" Jimmy Eat World (I know this isn't new but I love it!)
"The Chain" Ingrid Michaelson
"The Way I Am" Ingrid Michaelson
"Speaking a Dead Language" Joy Williams
"Love Drunk" Boys Like Girls

and I'm a little embarrassed to admit this song but I love the beat...

"I know you want me" Pitbull

PS:
I need to take a second and thank my oh so favorite show GREY'S ANATOMY for introducing me to some amazing music! A huge shout out to Ingrid Michaelson who literally takes words out of my mouth, throws some chords with it and sings it more profound then any other artist I know of.

Split in two

2009-10-04T12:06:00.000-07:00

I can't help but pretend that even the newest news in my life seems a bit of a stretch. A smack to the face, something that even I couldn't have predicted or expected. I guess this is how the Lord tries our faith.

I got a call a week ago from my old boss. It was a Saturday and I was spending the day with a few close friends of mine for a birthday party. We had just finished our pedicures and were killing time while our freshly painted toes threatened to dent or get banged up. This call was unexpected, even when I saw his name I assumed it was to answer a question my replacement wouldn't know or instruct him on how to complete a report. He let me know that he had just returned from Denver where they discussed in detail the position they once had offered me. They had come to the conclusion that the position needed to be filled and this was the reason for the call. Dave was calling to re-offer me the job in Denver. He asked me to think about it and let him know Monday.

My immediate thoughts were to turn it down, I had just gotten situated here. I was in a new position, a new place of living, a new point in my life. It wasn't until Saturday night when I spoke to a good friend that my eyes were opened up a little. I literally felt like I was being pulled in half (I had some VERY interesting dreams these nights). So what should I do??

Over the next few days, I felt like I was on the phone every second I wasn't working. Asking for advice, sharing thoughts that others had and hoping that this person would give me insight that I had overlooked. I prayed. I prayed so much hoping that the Lord would bless me with peace of mind while I made this difficult decision. I talked in detail with my boss... what risks was I taking by accepting the job? Would I get more money? Training etc. I spoke with my bishop, and he reassured me that I needed to do what was best for me. I shouldn't care what others think that it comes down to what is best for me. I talked to my dad. His words of affirmation and advice pierced my soul and calmed me; and then I asked for a blessing from two worthy priesthood holders.

I was reassured in my blessing that I would have a good night's rest. (Something that I had lost out on since I received the call.) I was promised that I would feel more capable of making this decision after this nights rest. I was also promised that no matter what decision I choose to make I would be successful in it. So I did just that... I slept so well and the next morning, after saying a prayer I made the decision. Immediately following this, my mind was cleared. I felt like the weight I was carrying was lifted from my shoulders and since making this decision. I've had nothing but peace of mind. Even when I start feeling moments of doubt, its immediately washed away with reassurance.

So what decision did I make... I moving back to Colorado. Tuesday Oct 13th will be my last day in Utah. I trust in the Lord that this is the decision he wanted me to make and so I go in Faith.

Family History

2009-09-20T22:46:00.000-07:00

So I need to admit something to my blog followers. Something I should probably be ashamed to share but it needs to come out. I thought the idea of family history was a bore. I never thought it would be interesting nor did I have any desire to take part in the research. I always figured that is something you do when you get old and especially in our religion, that's the only time you do it.

We had a wonderful lesson in church last week on Family History and I was disappointed in myself that I knew very (and when I say very I mean VERY) little about my ancestors. I listened to several people share their stories of great-great grandparents who did remarkable things. I left feeling down on myself for being to self involved in myself and not taking a few minutes to find out about, well... my family!

I came up and visited my aunt this weekend, she has done a good amount of research on my dad's side of the family and we chatted about it for a couple of hours. She pulled out huge binders full of stories and pictures of my ancestors. I spent the next 6 hours going through these books, learning about these men and women who sacrificed so much. I only made it through a small portion of the stories but it made me eager to do some of this myself. I listed a couple of interesting facts from my grandparents and above that I thought I would share. I plan to squeeze in a few hours over the next couple of weeks to get my own book started. I'll keep you posted on how it goes.

- My grandpa loved to dance and play music. He said any spare moments he had you could find him dancing or singing.
-My grandma served a mission, worked in a beauty shop and didn't get married until she was 27. (There is hope for me!)
-Most of my great-grandpas were polygamists. Not one had less then 12 kids. When polygamy stopped they were forced to let go of some of their wives. Many struggled with this decision and continued to keep them even if it meant they would be put in jail.
-I had a great great great grandmother who loved to sew. She and her husband were good friends with Joseph Smith and Emma. My grandmother sewed a lot of Joseph's clothes for him, including the outfit he was killed in.

Just a few stories that stuck with me... I'm excited to gather more :)

My novel

2009-09-16T22:50:00.001-07:00

I decided to do a little excerpt from the book I am writing... I'm only about 54 pages into it and still am having some trouble figuring out where I want it to go but I thought that my faithful blog followers could give me some thoughts and inspiration about this one page insert that I have provided. Yes, it may seem like a spoiler but trust me its only the beginning for what else I have in store :) Like I said... its only about one page of the 54 I have written (I shrunk it down and single spaced it) but my mind is all over the place right now that I work on different sections at different times, depending on the mood I am in. I literally pulled this from one part in the story. I apologize if it doesn't totally make sense in the beginning. Bear with me... when you read the whole thing it will.

Have a great day!

My lungs were gasping for the fresh air that so desperately tried to reach them. This simple act felt more like a reward and I wasn’t deserving of it. I fought back the tears, refusing to let even one hit my check. Crying only meant that I was allowing the truth to sink in and the truth hurt too much to believe.

“Holls that was Jim that just called. He was following a few cars behind Grace. I guess she stayed at his place last night. His car was one that was involved in the accident but he made it out with just a few broken bones in his right arm, he didn’t know who else to call.” “Holly, her parents don’t even know yet, where can I get their phone number? You need to come in and sit down, you’re shaking uncontrollably.”

It made sense why the screen door kept tapping against its frame. My hand was frozen in place, thoughts and images I couldn’t keep out but didn’t want to let in. The pains in my stomach were like acid. The only thing that I wanted to do was remove everything from my inside to stop the searing pains that were being created. I don’t remember how I made it to the front room. I think Scott finally managed to push the door open, picked me up and carried me in there. He set me down on the floor, and quickly moved all the clutter that covered the loveseat. I didn’t let him pick me back up, somewhere between his 210 lb build and my little 130 lbs I won the battle. I wanted nothing more then the carpet to suck me in. Hide me from the world and pretend that I never existed. I could hear Scotts voice in the distance somewhere. He was asking questions with impossible answers, his words started blending into each other. The ringing in my ears of cars honking and people screaming started to indulge every sense in my body. I heard him talking to someone, but didn’t remember anyone coming through the front door. It took me a minute to realize that he was on the phone, sharing the same horrible news that I had received what seemed like hours ago. The carpet beneath me started to irritate my face from the shagginess of it and the soggy center I had left from my tears. I tried to raise my head, but even that was like asking me to lift the very house I was laying in.

I didn’t move from that spot all night long. I remember Scott coming in and trying to lift me again, but with my helpless efforts my body laid there as if I too had died. Sleeping wasn’t the answer. I felt like my eyes were the enemy. Every time they suggested shutting I would see the very thing I feared; the scene of the accident; Graces white Honda Accord once so striking, now nothing more then a pile of rubbish. I could hear her screams and pleading for someone to stop the pain and get her out. Then I saw me, sitting in a car just a few feet ahead of her, feeling the same pain that she was experiencing. I tried to avoid the thought, the selfishness of how I survived and she didn't. The overwhelming feelings sent a whole new set of emotions and I prayed right then and there that my wish would be granted and the carpet would finally suck me in.

The night had seemed like a blur. At some point Scott had mentioned the phone call he had with her parents, his apologies that he hadn’t handed the phone to me to hear their condolences and receive them. They had found out the news a few hours prior to Scotts call and were waiting at the airport to fly to Florida. He told me that he had called my parents as well. Tyler demanded to speak to me, but it was I who pushed the phone away, refusing to open my mouth to anyone other then Grace. He confirmed something with Scott, but the extra effort of trying to decipher what that could be was more then I was capable of.

The sun burned my eyes as it seeped through the blinds. I finally blinked for the first time in what seemed like hours. I stared at the patterns in the carpet. Small pieces of shavings from Scott’s projects molded themselves into the webbing. I shaped them into unlike designs. Scott’s heavy breathing came from the coffee colored love seat behind me. Knowing the size of the couch and the length of Scott’s body, he couldn’t be very comfortable. He must have transitioned everything he was working on from the love seat to the couch. I’m sure he was regretting that decision but too exhausted to move it all again. Zoe rested her head on my legs. She made eye contact with me but some how understood not to get too excited over my small movements. The sound of car engines being awoken from a restful sleep was heard in the background of Scotts breathing. The day was beginning, never missing a beat or pausing to feel the pain that now moved freely inside of me.

These are the people

2009-09-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Holly repeats this saying to me quite often and tonight it resounds in my head more fervently.

"People come into our lives for reasons we may never know. Sometimes they come for a short while and others for much longer periods of time, but believe it or not they come when we need them to"

I am still amazed at the sweet spirits I have in my life. I always know who to call when I need a boost of confidence, a shoulder to cry on, someone to laugh with and someone to reminisce with. I know who will pick up the phone at late hours of the night because yet again, I can't fall asleep. I know who to call in the middle of the day when the boy I like smiled at me and I need help interpreting that. I know who to call when I just give up and can't push forward anymore. I have endless lists of friends who just know how to pick me up when my wings have trouble remembering how to fly. I can't say enough on how much these people make a difference in my life... most of the time they don't even know they are making a difference. The last couple of weeks have been difficult, even after making the decision to stay, and still I have my rocks, my hero's, my comforters, my friends in my life cheering me on and pushing me forward. Sometimes I get upset with Heavenly Father, afraid that maybe He just isn't as aware of me as I had hoped. Then I look around and see the good people he has blessed me with and know that He uses them to help me down the rocky road I have come to.

These are the people I look up to. These are the woman and men that I hope someday I can be like. These are the people who have all the answers to my much needed questions. These are my friends.

train station

2009-09-05T23:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sure each of you can relate back to a point in your life where you felt you were at a standstill. It felt like everything around you was moving forward, like the train analogy, everyone jumping on board and you're left at the station waiting for your train to come and pick you up. Is it possible to feel like your at a standstill when so much of your life is changing?

I ask this because that is where I'm at in my life. Nothing in my life is the same, well except for the fact that I'm still single, but even that has hit an all time low. If ever a point in my life shouldn't feel like a standstill it should be this moment. I started a new job, for those of you who didn't already know, I am training to be a pharmacy tech. A good job that could easily be something that I enjoy and foresee doing long term. I still have plans of going back to school and will enroll full time in the spring but my major has nothing to do with Pharmacy, and the more my simple brain learns about the program the more I realize how much memory is involved. I've never had a job where I wasn't the "go-to" girl. I've always held positions where I was the one "in-charge" and "knew what she is doing". To watch how a pharmacy functions and know that at this moment I can't add any value, not only frustrates me but has put me in that standstill mind frame. I try to suck in as much information as I can but unfortunately I am the opposite of a sponge, though I suck it all in, little actually stays with me.

I am having to learn how to make friends, that are girls... something that I haven't dealt with in a very long while. Most of you don't know this, but in my previous position, out of 65 people I interacted with approximately 12 were female. What is my point with all of this? I've gotten comfortable working amongst men. My new position is almost all girls, who are all my same age. Most girls would embrace this, find it comforting and a bit of fresh air... to me, I find it as a new challenge that I'm hesitant to attack. I don't know how to handle drama, or hurt feelings. I've never been good at bragging or being sympathetic. I have found myself this last week, observing, keeping to myself and just trying to take it all in. To me I almost feel like I'm hiding my true identity which has always been outgoing, funny and interesting... I'm just not sure how much of me can get wet in a pool that is already pretty full.

And of course how could I forget to mention the lack of interest I have right now in the male population. I've always been comforted in knowing that even though I wasn't 'in a relationship' at least I was dating. It was reassuring knowing that there were guys out there who found me adorable and irresistible; but as of late, a large shortage has taken effect and I'm left to question the future... I'm not super upset that I'm single, there are many pluses to it, but now and again it would be nice to have a warm body to curl up next to while watching a movie or knowing that another Friday night isn't going to be spent alone or "girls night out" (nothing against my sweet sisters, just needing a little testosterone).

So I sit at the train station, waiting for that train to pull up that is going to have the much needed answers on it... and hopefully, just hopefully, it will be headed down the path that I've intended...

What the...??

2009-08-16T21:11:00.000-07:00

So I know my life has been one of those movies where you sit at the edge of your seat, popcorn in hand, not able to actually make the final lift to the mouth because your eyes are glued to the show. You could hear a pin drop in the room... No one wanting to make a sound incase they miss something vital. Each person sitting around you has similar expressions on their faces. Jaws open, no one blinking, even their breathing is so shallow that its a wonder they still have color in their face.

Maybe I'm thinking a little too highly of myself, but I will let you know that even I'm a little unsure what is going on in my life... and if anyone should know, it outta be me right!? So for those of you anxious to know if I'm staying or going, if I'm doing school and if so will it be hair or regular, and where in the heck am I working... sit down, grab a bite to eat and enjoy a little bit of light reading....

So two months ago I was offered a job with my current employer out in Colorado. It was going to be a promotion and since that's where I am from and had already been contemplating a move back to the homeland... I thought it was a sign from God saying "Go home, good things to come". So I sold my contract, told my boss to find a replacement and had the parental unit move all my stuff back to Colorado. Not two weeks before I was supposed to be moving back to the Rocky Mountains did my boss inform me that our Regional offices had different plans in place for the position out in Colorado... they decided against backfilling the job. So where did that leave me? My boss asked this very same question to our Colorado offices and they said "Back at square one".

As my family can contest.... I don't handle stress very well. I don't like knowing what the next month/months look like in my life. So I went into immediate planning mood.... doing a whole re-evaluation of my life. PAUSE: A small side note... a big shout out to my momma who provides such wisdom when I can't see through the dark clouds. She knew just what to say in a time of need! PLAY: I did some research on the hair schools I was interested in out here, and even though I wasn't totally thinking clearly I could feel that hair school wasn't right for me. The school I liked out here raised its prices and didn't have any openings until next year. I didn't feel like it was right and so I went to my next option... finishing up my degree. Again I researched my classes/credits/timing etc. I could finish up my degree in 1 1/2 years if I really wanted to. Having a degree would mean more then I can even explain. I hate to admit this on here, since so often I change my ideas but its something I need to do. I've been trying to look at the reasons the job in Colorado didn't work out... besides my overwhelming frustration with the situation, had I gotten the job I would've kept putting school off. I would've made my current employer my lifetime job...when I know I can do so much more. With the reassurance from my mom that this was a good decision I made the choice to stay in Utah.

Sounds great huh? Remember, half of my stuff is sitting in Colorado, I'm living out of suitcases as different friends housesPAUSE: many many many thanks to Angie and Tony, Kristy, Kellyanne and Danielle, and Nat and Scott! You guys have saved me from living out of suitcases. PLAY: and I don't have a job. Again, much like a robot I jumped into plan mode... My dear sweet friend Brooke offered for me to live with her. She and Dorian will be such fun girls to live with and I'm excited for the adventures we will have! ;0)

Last but not least, my job... I'm not sure yet what I'm going to be doing... a lot is left hanging on a few decisions that need to be made by my company. I will continue to work for the same employer and focus on school. Once I get my degree my opportunities and options will open up. I will keep you all posted on my job, but until then this is the life I've been living for the last few weeks and let me tell you... it definitely has been an eye opener of an experience.

I'm not sure why things happen the way the do, but I'm not too upset that I don't. I trust that God does and he'll guide me if I'm willing to take His hand and let Him lead me.

(Closing Credits)

Wonders

2009-06-30T20:42:00.001-07:00

I've got plenty on my mind so bare with me as I unload some of it onto my blog. For some, you have been eagerly awaiting the news I spoke of in my last post. Another upcoming event in my life that I didn't want to jinx. Some of you couldn't handle the anticipation and went directly to the next source of outgoing information... my facebook page! Here you were able to see that I am interviewing for a promotion with my company. I've got two of the five interviews done (and as my dear friend Craig said to me "What the heck!? Are you interviewing to be a doctor?") I am still in the running for this position out in Colorado. Before I share too much more I would like to backup for a second and share how certain events led to this interview. I was sitting at home on a snowy winter day and it dawned on me... I have been in Utah for 6 1/2 years! I slowly started to panic, light-headed and gasping for air, I laid down on my bed hoping that this anxiety would quickly go away. I shuffled through images in my mind. Ones that were memorable, ones that made me who I am today, and ones that I removed as quickly as they entered. Days, weeks and months after this specific moment passed as I contemplated what it was I wanted in life. Naturally the first thoughts that came to my head was a family. I wanted more then anything to have a husband but knowing that its not my timing but the Man upstairs, I needed to be closer to the family he blessed me with. It was that decision (and that alone) that led me to the choice of moving back to Colorado. I prayed a lot about it, asked for direction and guidance. No matter what your spiritual beliefs are, I know that God has a plan for each of us and if we ask in faith, He will lead us down the right one. I struggled back and forth with my decision to stay in Utah or move back to my family in Colorado. I weighed out my options:

Colorado Utah
-My family -My friends
-A fresh start - A good ward
-saving money -comfort

I still couldn't help but think how much I wanted to be close to my family and for that it trumped anything else in my life. Receiving the guidance I needed from the leaders in my church I made the decision. I knew I could transfer with my company; however, there was a chance of loosing a lot with the transfer. I wasn't getting the same position, I could loose a couple of dollars in pay and loose the gaurenteed 8-4:30/M-F shift. I would be living back with my parents. 25, single, and living with your parents isn't always the coolest thing, but again I knew it was something I needed to do. Two amazingly good guys came into my life over the last two months, both with real potential, but knowing that I'm moving in the next couple of months they backed off. I couldn't change my mind. Colorado is where I need to be. When I finally made the decision, opportunities started opening up for me. For example... this job (a job that opens up once every 15-20 years), a job that my bosses contacted me about, wanting to know if I would be interested. A promotion, overseeing people who do my job. I would be known within the company. A huge opportunity. Another example is how excited I am to have at least one dear friend out there named Holly, who has so anxiously kept my spirits up when sometimes they fall short of excited. Lastly, an opportunity to find someone out there who will eventually become my husband... because lets be honest, I'm too cute and won't be on the market for very long once I get out there! :0) (kidding... well kind of). So the Lord does help us along our path if we trust in Him and put all our faith Him. I don't have the job yet, and there is a good chance I don't get it. I could end up being single for a lot longer then I ever expected... but I know that whatever happens, happens for a reason. So in 45 days... I will be a Coloradian again!

More to come...

2009-06-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a while since my last update and to tell you the truth I have big things in motion but not settled so rather then giving away a surprise or jinxing myself of anything good happening I have decided to keep this post simple and relaxing. To all of my close blog followers, don't fret! I have not died, given up writing, or chosen to go into hiding (although this crosses my mind every couple of days or so) I am just waiting to receive my own "confirmation", the green light that says "Type these exciting updates! Share with the world of bloggers all the exciting events going on in your life". Be patient, give me some time, and I will share where I have been and what I have been up to over the several weeks... until then enjoy the family photos that were taken a few months ago!

Abbie and Gunner

Me, Joby, Lena, Mandy

Baby Taya

Mike, Trent, Dad, Gunner, Travis

Me

Those were the days...

2009-05-08T22:08:00.000-07:00

So I was sitting at work today contemplating the ways of life, arguing with one of my bosses about the amount of water a camel can drink and talking diseases with the other one (you know a normals days worth of work) when it dawned on me... in 8 days (depending on when you read this) I will be 25. Now for my fellow blog followers I wrote an entry last birthday about how I was beginning my quarter-life crisis one year too soon when I splurged and bought a new car. Now that the date is really approaching (May 17th to be exact... all presents are welcome) I'm realizing how I am one step away from having the actual Quarter-life crisis mini melt down. Now is the time to start planning my retirement and becoming a regular at BINGO night. I'll look into buying my cane and start shopping for perfumes by Elizabeth Arden or Elizabeth Taylor that screams old woman. I'll revert back to the roller vacuum that is practically useless, purchase a rocking chair that I can use to sit on the porch and wave to the neighbors. I'll tell stories about the days in school when chalkboards were all we had and whiteboards were a rarity. Friends of mine will join along in the discussion how gas used to be .95 cents a gallon and the cool shows to watch were KIDS Incorporated, Saved by the Bell, Duck Tales and Rescue Rangers. Such things as Nintendo DS and Wii's weren't around. Every child was familiar with the music from Super Mario Bros played on the original Nintendo. Riding bikes and playing make believe was an everyday occurrence. Lunches at school were always phrased in a similar manner "Are you having Hot or Cold lunch today?" For me, it was always cold lunch and if I was really lucky I would get a snackpack or dunkaroos in my bag for dessert. Recess at the time seemed like it lasted for hours, where in actuality it wasn't more then 15 minutes. Nothing mattered back then. The biggest concerns I had as a child was whether or not I was going to get time to play with my friends after school.

Awe yes... those were the days...

The Biggest Loser

2009-04-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

So I recently (well about 10 weeks ago) became a fan of the TV show the Biggest Loser. I can't help but get excited for every Tuesday night and watch the challenges that these people have to endure. I find that not only is it uplifting and changing their lives, I notice the longing I have in my own life to start eating better and exercise more. This is why I've set a little challenge for myself... (yes another one) I want to run a 10k before I move back to Colorado (oh wait... did I forget to mention how I told a little white lie in my last entry and have actually decided to go back to Colorado instead!?) Oops sorry! For my Utah friends... I've been here seven long and I guess I can say wonderful years. I have met my best friends here and I can honestly say that it will be difficult but I am excited to get back to Colorado and start new and fresh. Lets face it... Utah and I were never meant to be forever and if I don't leave now, I may never leave. So I will be venturing back to my home state sometime in August depending on school. Don't you worry though... I will still keep my blog updated and share all my exciting stories with you on here.

So back to my 10k, I always seem to down play running in my mind. For example, when people tell me the distances that they run I think to myself "Oh 9 miles, that must have been a little difficult but I can do it" (refer back to my entry about writing a story... I think I can do anything) Until I jump on that treadmill or I start running down the path outside and realize just how far a mile actually is. I'm lucky if I get to 3 or 4 miles before I'm gasping for air, looking for a place to rest my shaky knees. Sweat falls down my brow and I contemplate sticking the thumb out and showing some skin to get a ride back to my condo. Then the words of Bob and Jillian come into my head "Do it again" and I think back to my own trainer Johnny who pushed me when I thought there was no way I could do it again and somehow I find the strength to push through... so I can run this 10k! It will be my going away gift to Utah. (I know... some gift!)

Too Old?

2009-04-09T22:22:00.001-07:00

Are you ever too old to start something new? Does there come a time when you have to continue doing what you know how to do and shouldn't attempt to start something new? I know God put us here on this Earth for us to learn and grow. So in answer to that question I don't feel that we are ever too old to try something different and that is what I decided to do...

I've been contemplating a lot of big decisions lately and for the few of you that I share my life drama with you know the stress I've been under. I have finally made decisions to the questions I threw around in my head for so long and am excited to share this with the few blog followers I have!

First and for most, I've been working on finishing school for quite some time. I've changed my major so many times that I've forgotten the one I originally came out for. I've taken a break from school at different points during my time in Utah and settled on one just to finish up. Having many talks with my dear sweet sister, I decided yet again to change life up a little bit (I mean everyone needs a little excitement in their lives) I have decided to go to cosmetology school. I plan to finish up my last semester at UVU this summer and then begin classes in August. I can't explain the excitement I have about this decision... I know its not going to be an easy road but it will definitely be worth it.

With this decision, I have come to appreciate more then ever having a job that can support me while I start this new chapter in my life. I am excited to be able to still work full time and take my cosmetology classes in the evening. It will be a long haul but I trust that if I put my mind to it and really have a desire to do this... all things are possible! And finally, for all those who were praying for me to stay in Utah... you got your wish (at least I'm 98.9% sure of it) I'll be residing in Utah for at least two more years (my Colorado folk... I will return some time in my life... don't you worry!)

I know some of you may be thinking... she turns 25 in a little over a month and she is just now starting to get her life on track? My response to that... I am young, I am single and I have the whole world at my feet. I can do what I want at this point and this is something new and exciting and something I can't wait to begin.

So for my faithful supporters I will need models starting in August so please contact me if you are interested.

WISH ME LUCK!

Festival of Colors!!

2009-03-31T21:18:00.001-07:00

(The crowd... there were so many people behind me too)

(before the event)

(lighting the fire)

(in front of the temple)

Red, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple... all colors that landed on my face, my hair and my clothes. This weekend I went for the first time to the Festival of Colors. A Hindu tradition of welcoming spring and scaring away the demons of winter, they light a wood witch on fire and at that moment all of these colored corn starch is thrown up in the air. According to the Deseret News, 15,000 people were there at the Harry Krishna temple in Salem, UT. It was so crowded as bands played music with only two words to their songs... "Harry Krishna" everyone with their painted faces danced around. Photos have been included so that you can enjoy this special event with me!

FYE

2009-03-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

"Hello my name is Jennie Mower and I have a movie addiction" ("Hi Jennie" the monotone words are said around the circle. I take my seat next to an overly large plump man with a handle bar mustache who smells like cheap whisky.)

I realized this weekend that I have an addiction... some may say its not one to worry about but as I stare at the shrinking space on my book/movie case I realized I either need to get a bigger movie case or (gulp) I need to slow down on my movie purchases.

For those of you who have seen the movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, I feel that in someway I can relate to my dear sister Isla Fisher who walks into a dept store and feels at home. When I see those three letter F Y E something inside draws me toward those automatic doors. As if a magnet was placed inside of me during one of my many nights of slumber. A mother ship calling her troops back home and I am being beckoned to return. The staff there greets me with a big smile and an offer to assist me in anything I may be looking for. I hate to be rude but I simply wave them off... never could they possibly help me find what I am searching for, because even I don't know what I am searching for. I don't waste my time with the new releases, or the non-previewed DVDs... I walk straight back to my own personal Heaven... the USED DVDs! Before I say anything more... the person who decided to sell their already viewed DVDs for a lesser cost could possibly be my favorite person. Pure Genius! I begin with the Dramas, ensuring that I look at each one of those little White Cards with the different movies that are sorted under it in Alphabetical order. From there I move through Action/Adventure, taking a quick peek at Horror and ending in Comedy. After an hour and seven or more DVD's in my hands I have to sit in their brown comfy chairs and make some of the most important decisions I have made that entire day. Which movies do I ultimately need and which ones do I set back... Torture. Pure torture.

I went on Saturday (having slight with drawls not having been there in over a month) and was able to purchase six movies (yes I said six) for $20. A steal of a deal! I squeezed these six onto my already tight bookshelf/movie stand adding to my 200 movies I already own. Thank you FYE for bringing me such entertainment!

For those of you concerned...please avoid an attempt for an intervention... I will not go easily.

The Water Works

2009-03-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

Its amazing how much water the human body can hold... I mean each one of us is made up of 2/3 water! Each day we are constantly loosing the water that we intake, through working out, using the restroom, even breathing we loose 250ml on a daily basis!
Assuming you're not reading my blog to get a biology lesson, I talk about water because I am amazed how many tears I was able to produce over the last three days. I don't write to reach out to you for sympathy or total concern. I don't need the hundreds of comments asking if I am ok or if an intervention needs to take place. I write as somewhat of a tribute to a great man that I cared for a ton, and to express my amazement of the human body.

For those of you who don't know I am originally from Colorado. Moved out here almost seven years ago. I transferred with the company I was working for at the time (and still am working for). Four years ago while working in our Orem location we recently got a new store manager. At the time I didn't care for him too much but over the months he began to wear on me. He was the age of my father and being away from home with no family out here, it was nice to know that I could look to him for advice. That was the start of our friendship. Skipping the details and the boring stuff lets fast forward a little... John got a promotion he was hired to be our new District manager. He left me in the stores after a year of working together. (No more water fights, marker fights or running races) I was devastated. I cried. I slowly moved on still seeing John once or twice a month walking our store and seeing our progress. Fast forward again...(hit play... now!) John's admin at the time decides to move into a new position. I apply for the open position as John's admin and am hired. John and I started a new path again... A year of laughs, frustrations, tears, trips, advice... a year of learning for me to say the least... has just ended. The beginning of this week, John told me that he would be leaving the company... to take some time for him and his family and then look for something else. It felt like my heart dropped into my stomach. The next three days have been a lot of tears.... (me curling up in a ball, sucking my thumb with my pink blanket... ok not that bad) but this now leads me to my amazement of the human body... who knew that so many tears (I mean three days of on again tears off again tears) can come from one body. I didn't drink much either. (You emotional girls know how it is... sometimes we don't eat or drink when we are upset). I think I could have won a record of how many tears were produced these last few days.

Needless to say... John is going to be missed. The days of pounding on the fax machine hoping it will work, throwing all the paper from the shredder onto the floor, or yelling at the UPS truck for its annoying beeps... won't happen anymore. Something good will come (by no means better) but I will definitely miss those days with John.

Taylor: More then just a singer!

2009-03-05T19:57:00.001-08:00

I like to find songs that really have emotion and feeling. Something that I can scream to when I'm driving down the freeway while other drivers almost swerve off the road due to their stares at me. Mostly though, I like to find songs that explain exactly how I'm feeling and so far Taylor Swift has been able to express my exact emotions in her songs. I have become such a huge fan of hers.
Recently her Fearless album has consumed my life, I listen to it in the car, I listen to it while I'm getting ready for work. I consider taking it to work with me and listen to it there, but I don't think it would go over well. She has faced the same dilemmas with the same type of guys and I almost feel like we share a common bond. Like I could call her and we could compare notes. Tell our horror stories of the guys we have come in contact with, how much we hate them, love them, wish they would recognize us etc.

I trust her next CD will continue to lead my life in the right direction or tell me how to deal with the next set of loser guys that come into my life. Thanks Taylor!

My TV friends

2009-02-15T18:38:00.000-08:00

There is something about ending a TV series that brings a pain to my heart. I have spent countless amounts of hours and memorable moments with these people. Attended their proms, sat and watched as they cried alone in their rooms, I was there for their first date, their first kiss, their first breakup. I grew up with them and helped argue who they should date, how to solve tough challenges and then just as quickly as they came into my life they were out. The series finale of a show I have dedicated so much time to is like saying goodbye to some of my closest friends. I find the following days after the ending of the show alone and wallowing a bit. I long for a new episode that will give my day meaning and am left to entertain myself. I fill the void with looking up new movies they will be in and buy my tickets way in advance. As the days go on, I soon find that I am able to make it through most of the day without longing for my friends. Before long I start a new TV series, begin a new friendship and learn more about the ways of life but never forget my roots and my friends from those beginning shows. ;)

A shout out to all of my favorite characters in all of my favorite television series... thanks for the memories.

He's Just Not That Into You

2009-02-09T19:43:00.001-08:00

(WARNING: If you have not seen this movie, some comments that are mentioned could be a Spoiler... Read at your own risk) :0)

This weekend I went with my roomies to see the new hit movie "He's Just not that into you". As I sat there mesmerized by the stories that were being acted out I realized it had been a long time since I have enjoyed a movie as much as this one. Emotions were pulled in all different directions, causing me to laugh, to cry to feel pain and sorrow, but it wasn't only these emotions that had me sitting in my chair, refraining from blinking in case I missed even a second of the movie. They picked a great cast to tell the tale of the famous book released a couple of years ago. I was ecstatic when one of the main characters was named after me (for those of you who don't know my entire family calls me Gigi). Finally, I almost believed that they took pieces of my life and made it into this movie... more then ever I related to each of those women on so many different levels.

Just one weekend prior to this movie coming out I found myself sitting by the phone, watching it so attentively like it would get up and do tricks hoping to get the text message that was from someone important. Only making up excuses on reasons why I didn't hear from him. Many occasions prior to even this one I have found myself comforting girlfriends who have been in situations so similar to mine, and to those in the movie. "Oh Sarah, he probably just got scared because he's never felt like this for someone before" "Betty don't sweat it, he'll call, he just is helping his grandmother do some choirs around the house", "Karen, stop crying he loves you and he will realize how dumb he is being for breaking up with you". How interesting it is that we are so afraid to be the bearer of bad news or give truth to an unsettling situation. I think the moment that touched me the most, the quote that made me want to stand up and start clapping was what Gigi said to Alex about love and the stupid things that girls do in attempts to make a relationship work. I stand by her in saying that I too do those stupid things, saying things without thinking, becoming interested in music, or sports for a guy in hopes that he will think I'm hip or cool. In all reality i am just another girl, the exception to the rule... but I can honestly say I am closer to finding real love then those who close themselves off from finding that.

What a joy that movie brought to my life!! (This entry may be slightly obsessive I just really enjoyed the movie.)

I've been hit!

2009-02-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

So I was just shuffling through some of my friends blogs and found that I was tagged by my friend Angie... having no idea of this I thought it would be a fun little idea. Thanks buddy! (I had to change question one since I don't have a husband) :)

4 things I love about my siblings-
1. Joby- Singing in Borders and in Craig! Thank you for your willingness to give me everything you possibly can and more!
2. Mandy-Movie Theater Nachos (and all that those entail) Thanks for making life seem less stressful.
3. Travis- The tumbleweed. You're ability to always know what to say to make me laugh.
4. Lena- The two strangers coming into your law firm! I am so thankful that you are in the fam. You add so much!

4 movies I would watch more than once... (Really! I can only choose 4!?)
1. Remember the Titans
2. Win a date with Tad Hamilton
3. Moulin Rouge
4. Notebook

4 TV shows I would watch more than once
1. Lost
2. The OC
3. Alias
4. Friends

4 places I have been
1. California
2. Bahamas
3. Washington (the state)
4. Nevada

4 people who email me regularly
1. Mason
2. Joby
3. Holly (instant communicator count?)
4. Stacey

4 Favorite Foods
1. Fruit-all of it
2. Pizza
3. Salmon
4. Sushi

4 Places I would like to visit
1. England
2. New York City
3. Hawaii
4. Germany

4 things I am looking forward to this upcoming year
1. Getting into great shape
2. My Birthday
3. Paying off bills
4. Getting a puppy (hopefully)

4 things I love to spend my time doing
1. Reading
2. Shopping (especially at FYE)
3. Hiking
4. Watching movies

4 things I hate
1. Bowling
2. Sitting for long periods of time
3. Math
4. The movie War of the Worlds (that one is for you Angie)

4 people I tag
1. Ashley
2. Stephanie
3. Christal
4. Joby

This is a fun way for people who don't know much about me to learn a few things about me... ENJOY!

My Next Big Thing

2009-01-20T18:14:00.001-08:00

I have to admit that I am easily inspired. Watching someone do something enough times automatically ensures that I too can master it. Whether it be learning the guitar to becoming the next CIA agent, I can accomplish it all. I guess it began when I was little and would watch Bob Ross paint on his canvas. He would some how make a blob of paint turn into a deep ocean, or a forest. Not long after watching his show, I decided that my painting skills were up to the challenge. I had my mom buy me a bright white canvas, new paintbrushes and colorful paint. Lets just say that I easily gave up on that dream when my ocean and mountains were confused as a horse with different sized legs. I didn't let this small set back get me down though, so what if I can't paint, I found my next calling in life when I was just a few years older.
I promised myself that I would be the next horse diving girl after I watched the movie Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken. I knew that I would get the chance to run away with the circus people, fall in love with a handsome young guy and dive horses for the rest of my life. Then I went on my first high dive at the swimming pool and realized I was terrified of heights. Next...
In junior high my friend Danielle and i fell in love with the movie Titanic and decided that we needed to write a movie script so amazingly good that Leonardo DiCaprio would star in it. By pulling this together we would then get to be on the set and finally have our chance to profess our undying love to him! And really how difficult is it to write a movie script? So we plugged away, putting in countless amount of hours planning the storyline, picking the perfect cast, outlining the cliffhangers etc. and after two pages and the script complete we decided we weren't actually cut out for that line of work anyway.
Four years ago, I was going to be a CIA agent and learn how to defend myself and beat men up that were twice my size after becoming addicted the the TV show Alias.
All lifestyles that I was dedicated to becoming, which leads me to my most recent project. A seed that was planted six months ago but really started growing a few months later. Reading the twilight books and then seeing them come alive in the movie has really made me want to bring out some of my creative side. Stephenie Myer wrote a book from a dream that she had, and now look at her! I have ideas running through my head all the time... most of them random, others complex, but some that could pull out my creativity and make me famous.

So one day, I chatted with my friend Michael about the idea of writing a book. It didn't need to be anything amazing. The ideas of being famous could come later in life, I've got plenty of time. I wanted to reach inside of me and do something I never have before; a dream that I might be able to accomplish. My friend encouraged me and helped me toy around with the few ideas I had. Its been three months and I'm 50 pages into my story. Its nothing much yet, but maybe someday it can be.

Making a fool of myself... whats new!?

2008-12-23T00:07:00.001-08:00

We've all been there... doing something ridiculous in public where you pray that either no one saw you (which is usually unlikely) or pray that the Lord will strike you down so you don't have to see the faces of the people who did in fact notice. For some of you, you may be shaking your head and think to yourself "I rarely ever come across these moments" or "Sure I've had those moments but I'm not stupid enough to share it on my blog" As I've told many of you, my life is an open book (with a few torn out pages) and when ever I come across a moment when I can bring a smile to my friends face or make enemies happy to see "even I have flaws" I'll jump at the opportunity.

Twice now I have embarrassed myself singing in public. For those of you who are cringing at the thought "she sings in public" or even trying to picture me actually putting on performances and having an audience, that's not the singing I'm talking about. Let me explain...

The first experience happened while visiting my sister in a small town called Craig, CO. While walking into one of the seven stores that are in the small town, a few of my family members stopped to look at the sale they had going on outside of the store. Most of the time I forget I am in public (this being one of the moments) and will act very silly. We had been listening to High School Musical 2 with my niece in the car. I started singing the song to my sister without a care in the world. Last I had seen, there wasn't a single person outside within a 19 mile radius of us. I sang as loud as I could to my sister. I didn't notice the man come out of the store behind me and as I turned to go through a paper away (still singing might I add) he said to me "you have a very pleasant voice, thank you for singing and don't stop." All I could do was smile and listen to the laughs from my family behind me.

Second instance happened just this week. My sister and I had some time to kill before going to see a movie. We ran next door to Borders and were doing a little browsing. It was late and there were very few people shopping. My sister and I were headed to the registers from the back of the store. I had gotten a head start up to the front but was sure she was right behind me. I heard her come up next to me and with my hand in a fist holding only my thumb up (my pretend microphone) I leaned towards the person coming up on my left and started singing. Turns out my sister stopped to look at a book and the person who had come up next to me was a random shopper passing me. I tried to cover up my singing by using my thumb to point to the books that were next to the shopper. I don't think she fell for it but gave me a sympathetic smile. I ran back to my sister and informed her to let me know next time she stops to shop.

I am hoping I have learned my lesson and the next time I throw the microphone thumb up ready to sing a tune, I am fully aware of my surroundings and the people who are near. Or maybe I should refrain from doing it at all. :0)

Healthy Obsessions?

2008-12-15T20:06:00.000-08:00

I hate to admit this but I have a feeling that I fall into the category of obsessed. I titled this blog Healthy Obsessions with a question mark because this could be a debate. I am coming more and more to the conclusion that life shouldn't be lived through movies, books or TV. What is that famous saying, "Grab life by the reins and take control". (I promise I'm going somewhere with this) For those of you who don't know me super well I am a big entertainment person. I love movies almost more then I love food. (I really love food!)

FYE (For Your Entertainment) is a small branch of heaven on earth here for me. My friend Angie laughs at me because she knows that we have to schedule at least two hours for that store whenever we enter into it. For most people, dinner and a movie is such a "lame" date. That was so the 90's! For me, bring on the dinner and movie. (In fact, skip the dinner)

Continuing on my entertainment kick I love reading. A few entries ago I wrote about my love for Borders. Reading up on the latest pirate ships, or how Madonna became Madonna. I am easily entertained.

And of course how can we forget about television. At least two-three times a week, people tell me of their love for various TV shows and suggest that I give it a shot and watch the first episode. If I don't love it, then I never have to watch it again. That's where the fall begins. I fell for this one time when my old roommate Ashley told me to watch the OC. In her words, "Jennie, just watch the first four episodes with me. If you don't love it, then you won't have to watch it ever again." Four seasons later and owning the first couple of seasons on DVD, its obvious that I became a little addicted. Now when people suggest shows to me, I immediately let them know that I have three shows that I watch. I refuse to add anymore on there.

So what does this have to do with Healthy Obsessions? Due to the few shows/books and movies I have become addicted to this is how I secretly (not such a secret anymore) hoped my life would have played out... I go to High School in Orange County where I hang out with Seth, Ryan, Marissa and Summer. After high school I say goodbye to some of my closest friends where I move to Seattle and become an intern at Seattle Graces Hospital. Here I deal with the drama of my close friend Izzy and George. Meridith is dating Derick and Sloan is constantly wanting to "date" me. Little does he know that when I go home Edward is there waiting for me- the perfect man.

This is why I add the question mark at the end. Its an addiction and I'm learning to control it. :0)

Hopeless Romantic

2008-12-02T21:06:00.001-08:00

I find it kind of silly that my post prior to this one was a dedication to the nuns, my desire to be one and the top ten reasons why it would be a good decision. Those of you who read this may be wondering if I have found that "special someone". Fear not my single friends... I am still in your corner, but I have realized that I am a sucker for romance and the idea of falling in love. I don't speak of anyone in particular, only the imaginative characters in the movies or in the stories I read. I have tried to fight it but I can't help but feel the tugging of my heart strings when watching two people who have gone through their own struggles of searching for "that special someone" finally able to end the battle and truly fall in love. More and more I find myself searching for the novels that share the tale of two lost souls looking for their other half. Or dropping subtle hints to my friends to see movies of a guy and girl falling in love for the third time. I will remove my pride and share with the world my secret. I AM A HOPELESS ROMANTIC!! My fear now is not only the ridicule I will get after my faithful fans read this post, but the many acts of love I have read or seen will continue to linger in my mind. I hope someone is up for the challenge of catching my attention. :0)

Nuns

2008-11-17T21:15:00.000-08:00

OK... For years now I have said how I really need to look into becoming a nun. I know some of you are thinking "but why would you do that!?" I've decided after sharing with you some of the "perks" of being a nun I would put them down in writing...

the 10 top reasons why it would be cool to be a nun!

10. Never have to shave your legs or underarms again (save on wax jobs too)
9. Wouldn't have to worry about not being up with the latest fashions... one outfit that's all you need!
8. Free room and board (no more stinky or crazy landlords)
7. Save a ton of money! (That you can give to the homeless)
6. Live with all your closest of girlfriends (ignore the cat fights)
5. No need to get pampered everyday (out with the makeup)
4. Can't figure out how to control your hair? No need just throw it back under the cap you wear (is that the technical term?)
3. No stressful situations... just constantly serving
2. Have God in your life 24/7
and the number 1 reason to become a nun...

1. NO MORE DUMB BOYS IN YOUR LIFE!!!

AMEN TO THAT!!!

2008-10-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

So last week I had the chance to go with my roommate to the Dashboard Confessional Concert. When the idea was first presented to me I actually asked her to see if there was anyone else that would want the extra ticket she had acquired. I wasn't too familiar with their songs and it seemed silly to spend the extra $50. We decided that we would have more fun going together, so she quickly helped me with my little set back. She burned me serveral CDs of Plain White T's, Panic at the Disco, and Dashboard Confessional. We got to the show and immediately the doubt of feeling silly at a concert of artists I didn't know was let go and pure excitement overwhelmed me! Something about being at the concert, screaming your heart out as you sing along with the artist is exilerating. We were the only ones feeling this sensation as we danced along with several others. Especially our favorite fellow concert goer named "Drunk Man" who found moves that no one could top!

We gained the "groupie" nickname and to uphold our reputation we purchased shirts! We danced and sang to the last few songs and then sadness overwhelmed me as I realized the night was almost over. We stood there, watching the band leave backstage and looked around at the pockets of crowding going on. It was then that we realized, members of the bands had decided to come out and meet their fans. My roommate and I ran from the place we were standing to meet these fantastic entertainers! We left an hour later knowing the night was a success!!!!

book of life

2008-09-06T14:48:00.001-07:00

A little more then three months is all that stands between me and Christmas! Is it really September already? Before long I will enjoy the long sleeves, coats and scarfs only until I step outside to the fridgid weather and curse my car for not heating up fast enough! What have I done this past year. I think at one point I set some new year resolutions but couldn't tell ya how close I am to getting to that change.
Its been a few months since I wrote on my blog last and to all of my readers who so anxiously want to keep up to date with me here are some of the newest changes that have consumed my life.
After living in three different places in six months, I decided to move yet again back to Lehi where I had just come from not more then four months ago. The drive to Sandy was slowly becoming more and more of a pain and although I moved to Provo from Lehi at the beginning of the summer it had served its purpose and I decided that I was past the Provo scene. Two my friends found a cute little condo for a great price, packed our bags and said goodbye to the town we had all lived in for so many years.
So speaking of my job in Sandy, the point of the mountain is death trap waiting to happen. As winter approaches, the mountain comes to life and produces its own masses of weather to the point where you fear for your life as drive around it. My little jetta would cringe at the thought each time I pushed her up the hill and around the bend just to get to work. Since the majority of the year is winter except for few warm months of summer, I decided to get myself a new car! I went and spoiled myself and got the xterra that I was contemplating on getting back around my birthday. Its was sad to depart from the jetta but it was time.
Lastly, against the better wishes of my mother I choose to re-color my hair and go back to dark. I was the closest to my natural color about 5 months ago and nothing made my mom more happy! To me, brunettes have more fun and being my natural color for even a few months was torture as it is.

So the summer had some nice changes to it, I feel like a new chapter in my so called "book of life" has started and more then ever I'm excited to see what winter can come up with.

The Airport

2008-05-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

So many people laugh at me because of my love of the airport... next to borders its my favorite place to be. Sometimes I tell the person taking me to the airport that my flight leaves just a few minutes earlier then it really does so that I get to spend a little bit more time there. The airport is always associated with a negative connotation and I'm going to have to argue against this...
First, going to the airport means you are going somewhere and 98% of the time you are going somewhere fun, a vacation perhaps. The excitement of having a destination somewhere other then where you are now is one of the best feelings.
Second, if you are anything like me you love people watching. I find it fascinating to watch how families interact with each other during stressful moments or long periods of waiting. That's when true personalities come out.
Next, there is something about going and getting a magazine and reading up on the latest gossip in Hollywood... sure you can do that standing in line at the grocery store or in the comfort of your home, but it again it leads back to the first point I made.
Finally, vacations are always needed and the airport is your ticket to that! So the next time you want to rag on the airport... think first of the wonderful things it provides.
I REST MY CASE!!!

Sand Dunes!

2008-05-05T20:12:00.000-07:00

There is something exciting about the wind in your hair, the sand in your teeth and the white knuckle grip on either the 4-wheeler or the person driving the 4-wheeler! I got to experience a trip down the Dunes a couple of weeks ago and I will tell you what... there isn't anything more exhilerating then seeing the MOUNTAINS OF SAND! I was facinated watching the different motobikes race to the top of a straight climb. What was even more exciting is riding on the back of a 4-wheeler and feeling like at any moment you are going to just fly off the back. Entering into the Sand Dunes a sign is posted "1 number of days since the last serious accident" Two days before I went, a man was life flighted out of there. The same day I was there flight for life visited the Dunes again. (Don't worry it wasn't anyone in our group)

Well don't worry... whenever there is a 4-wheeler and Jennie, you get an accident. Coming down from the mountainous peaks above... clinging tightly to the back of my friend a sudden turn sent my feet flying off the pedals and the intial reaction is to put your leg down. Well with the tire right there... sometimes thats not the best idea. My leg got caught under the tire and I flew off. Luckily we weren't going too fast and I was positioned in a way where my leg didn't break. However when my friend stopped my leg was under the tire of the 4-wheeler. YIKES! My friends were shocked my leg didn't break.

Following this... I was driving my 4-wheeler following a few more experienced friends of mine on their bikes. As they climbed a steep hill and glided smoothly over it I assumed I could do it as well. As I climbed the hill and realized I didn't know what lied on the other side I released the gas and my 4-wheeler stopped half way up the hill. My friends were already far ahead of me so I had to climb to the top of the hill so they would be able to find me when they realized I was gone. Climbing loose loose sand in 80 degree weather... I felt like it was the Sahara desert.

Over all the trip was a blast... I hyperextended my leg... have massive bruises on both legs, but can't wait to do it again!
Posted is a glimpse of what the sand dunes is like...

Home

2008-04-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about feeling "Home sick". Whenever I get these feelings, I realize I have little places throughout Utah that help me chase away these negative emotions.
First: Borders! By far one of my favorite places to go when I need peace of mind. I love getting my Chi tea and walking up and down the aisles. I love grabbing random books about ghost ships or the making of the star wars movies. I love seeing friends anxiously engaged in conversation over a cup of coffee. Or the man sitting in the corner enthralled with his laptop. I call Borders my place of peace.
Second: The house of the family I nanny for. Whether or not the kids are there, I see the drawing on the fridge and the toys on the floor and I can hear their voices. They bring me happiness. I love the comfort of knowing that it is a place I can find refuge in. A place where I am loved and seen as the world in the eyes of three small children.
Third: The Spa! Enough said!
Fourth: The gym... even though I haven't been in months I remember how good it felt pushing myself and seeing the results.
Finally: My own home... being with my family. There isn't anything that can top that. It is my sanctuary!

GIRLS!!

2008-04-07T18:08:00.000-07:00

Whats more ideal then getting all the girls together, sharing the latest gossip of new trends they've found. Talking about the latest guy they are eyeing or how the last one broke their heart? I've realized now more then ever that there is something great about being with your best friends, story telling and gossiping. Some of my favorite moments are listening to the conversations that are going on, hearing the happiness in the voices and most of all the laughs that are sincere and for real. Mothers advice: Never forget your girlfriends. Reach for them, confide in them and fall back on them. Its interesting how these are the people in our lives that at one point we couldn't go a day without telling them the latest gossip, but in the busy world we live in we let the days go by without giving those girls a call. How easy it is to let those days turn into weeks or even months before the guilt hits us when we realize the time we've lost with them. We move on and let husbands, careers, and life clutter the room we had for these women. Well today, I want all the fabulous girls in my life to know how much I care about them! This one is for your ladies!

kids say the darnest things...

2008-03-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

I have been lucky enough to get to spend the majority of my life being surrounded by children. As of right now I currently am a nanny of three little ones. I always know that when my day is spent with kids, it's going to be different and even better then before. Some of my favorite things is seeing how excited the oldest gets when the animal wildlife visits his classroom and he gets to touch the snake. I love when the five year old draws pictures of me with an extremely large head, orange colored hair and hands that have three fingers. And of course I always smile when the three year old looks up at me with her hands high in the air and says "Hold you".
Above anything I love the thoughts that come from children's minds. A close friend of mine told me the story of when her son (while trying to get past her) suggested that other then Sunday, she should probably go to the gym everyday.
I also love the story that a close friend told me about the time she was teaching soccer to little kids. After getting a hold of the ball, she heard the shouts from one of the kids behind her "Grab the girl with the big butt!"
My niece, young at the time, came out here with her mom to visit me in Utah. She instantly started up a conversation with my roommates and after my sister told her we were leaving she responded, "You go on ahead, I'm going to stay here and visit with the girls."
How thankful I am for children's innocence and desire to be happy.

Blind date anyone?

2008-03-24T22:36:00.001-07:00

I've reached a point in my life where my friends no longer have someone they can set me up with, but now have friends of friends finding me dates. We all know that 9 out of 10 blind dates fail and yet as a society we feel that it is our duty to find our "less fortunate" friends a soul mate. We are all guilty of this simple tactic.
I experienced a similar situation over the weekend. A friend of mine was chatting with his neighbor and in discussion found that she had a single brother. Never really meeting the guy and the neighbor never having met me still felt that it would be a spectacular idea for us to meet.
I keep looking for the sign on my forehead that reads, "still single..." Do I give off some aroma that screams out to people, "She needs help or she'll never get married!"
As always I give the benefit of the doubt... Maybe I will be the one person who finds their soul mate. Then comes the awkward moment of not knowing what to do on a blind date. Well you've got some really good options of dinner and bowling, dinner and adventure golf, and dinner and games with another couple you've never met.
Blind dates... you gotta love them!

Quarter-Life Crisis?

2008-03-17T22:07:00.000-07:00

Well the time has come and although it is a year early, it is here and I'm preparing myself for the worst... my quarter life crisis. For those who don't know, I will be turning 24 in a couple of months and I guess rather then fearing it I should embrace it. That's exactly what I've decided to do. Over the last month I've been longing for a new car. Something a little bigger with more room and one that doesn't threaten to not start on me in the mornings if I don't warm her up first. Don't get me wrong, the Jetta and I have had some good years together but she isn't getting any younger and while I'm not either I can at least pretend I am. So I will trade her in and hopefully someone will find her.
Along with my desires to spend money, I've been obsessed with trying to make money! I've secretly been in love with the stock market and my 401k. Every once in awhile I will let it slip out in a conversation, and have found my mood to be a little darker when the stocks are down.
Well as I said, my quarter life crisis has hit and so I say, "Bring it on!"

Tis the Season

2007-12-19T12:36:00.000-08:00

Well I am disappointed in myself for allowing so much time to go by without a new entry. However, I have to say that there is something about this time of year that gets me all excited and happy. I love the festivities, the music, the happy (and the angry) people and the gift of giving. I cherish the time I get to spend with loved ones while drinking hot chocolate and reminiscing about the past year. I love to think back when I was a child, anxiously anticipating Christmas morning to see what new toys and games the man in the red suit brought for me. I remember all of us kids sitting at the top of the steps waiting for the moment our name was called and we were allowed to see the presents that sat under the Christmas tree. As I am older now, one may think that those feelings rarely exist; however I still share the same excitement Christmas morning wondering what the round fellow brought me this year. One thing I realize now that was often overlooked when I was younger is the time I get to spend with family and loved ones. By far my favorite of all the gifts.

Things to give Thanks for

2007-11-28T06:59:00.001-08:00

Recently my friend Ashley and I spent a Saturday night laughing and enjoying the night. With this combination and her love for spontaneous actions and my need for doing more things out of the ordinary, it is no shocker that at 1:30 AM we decided to drive the 5 hour drive to Vegas. We began the night going up to Salt Lake, eating at the Pie, and going to a nasty old lounge but hearing some amazing music. From there we convinced each other of the "fun" we could have in Vegas and how much time we would have to incorporate this "fun" into our night.
Well we survived the trip... we got to Vegas, after sleeping in St George and spent the next 7 hours shopping and laughing some more. The reason I choose to title this particular blog "Things to give Thanks for" is because going on this trip and with the passing of Thanksgiving... there is much to be thankful for and I wanted to list a few...
I'm thankful for Big Lots and their helpful service they are always willing to give each of their customers. I am thankful for ATMs at gas stations that refuse to take my card so I am not fooled into loosing an extra dollar. I am thankful for the pizza at the Pie and the writings on the wall that I am able to read while enjoying this fabulous dinner. I am thankful for spontaneous friends and anxiety exits to share moments of craziness with. I am thankful for good people who reach out to help those who do not have a place to stay. (even if they fight marines) I am thankful for heaters in cars and thick blankets to keep warm. (wish we had some) I am thankful for cars being so high tech that they do things automatically that we question our intelligence when we are unsure of how to work them. (i.e. blinker) I am thankful for truck stops to ensure that sleepy people stay off the road and get a little bit of a nap. (even a 4 hour one) Lastly, I am thankful for good stores to spend countless amount of hours in as well as a fair amount of money.

Kissing... is it a game?

2007-11-21T00:08:00.000-08:00

A few of my close friends consider me a "kissing slut". I was searching the web for a really good quote that I could use for the title of this entry and I think it was fate that the first place I looked had not a quote, but a book of quotes. The great thing about it... was the title! Don't let a fool kiss you, or a kiss fool you. How many times have I fallen into this category... well since I'm still single, I think that I'm most suitable for this title. According to Andy Warhol Everybody ends up kissing the wrong person good night. My story is said in these two quotes. My latest is a guy close friends know as Edward (keeping his identity a secret). I let his kiss fool me and obviously he is the wrong person to be kissing goodnight. Where does it end? For most, they have acquired the art of kissing without attachment. Most would think that I have as well. I wish I could say that were true; unfortunately I've acquired the art of attachment. Maybe someday I will learn from my mistakes, or maybe I won't. :-)

The world is yours

2007-11-19T16:48:00.000-08:00

I have found myself lost in deep thoughts lately, mostly concerning only myself and like the game of chess scouting out my next big move, only to find myself knocked off the board at the next play. I have been so consumed in my own world that I have forgotten to let my eyes open up to see the world around me.
I received a text message from my sister who is anxiously awaiting to give birth to a baby girl. At that moment is when I realized that a new person is entering this world... a world full of hatred, pain and challenges, but also a world of hope, love and beauty. I am an aunt once again. An influence to another little one who has the world at her feet.
How thankful I am for precious moments like this where I am able to pull myself from my selfish ways and enjoy these exciting moments. Congrats Taya Nicole... the world is yours!

My first edition

2007-11-18T22:55:00.000-08:00

So I'm addicted... I was sitting with Ash and Chels discussing the mysteries of life when Ash started talking about her blog and the latest editions she put on there. Over the last couple of days I have been filling my time with her blog as well as other close friends who have joined the "blogging world" and have been fighting a battle in my head whether or not I should join. I'm not use to putting my thoughts out there for the world to read and comment on... However, the time came to start something new and so I give you all "from my world to yours".