SHELLS

I must be really board!!!

2009-06-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

Can't stop watching this show, even obsessed with watching behind the scenes. Those food challenges are crazy and seam to be the real thing, not just a chocolate tarantula or peppermint cow intestines. I just find it pretty entertaining what the jungle is bringing out of them. Dying to know happened to Heidi and her trip to the hospital after staying over night in the torture chamber, and then what really happened.

29 and holding...

2009-06-04T23:20:00.000-07:00

In all my wonderful years, I really have been blessed with lovely friends. I will always treasure you, thanks for a another fun year!

Droolicious...

2009-06-04T23:07:00.000-07:00

I know some who may just be come a flossaholic!

http://www.perpetualkid.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=3364

Another reminder that I live in the desert...

2009-06-04T22:01:00.001-07:00

I see them all the time, but today I unknowingly cornered this one as I walked up to my front door. He was so fast scurrying back and forth not knowing where to go, brushing right next to my toes. I caught some good air jumping back. (no scream this time) AS LONG AS I NEVER MEET THE SNAKE!!!

2009-04-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

What a great Easter today was. Grateful for the miracle of this day and the knowing and understanding of all that Jesus Christ has done for me. Thankful That I stand with him at all times and in all things, just like he does for me.

MARATHON IV

2009-04-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

.5 AM wake up (one eye willy... still with me)

. yummm oatmeal (apple& cinnamon) oj, banana!

.freezing cold the whole day... never took off my jacket, ear muffs and gloves

.Fun to run all over The District, Constitution Ave, Connecticut Ave, Dr C on 18Th

, The Capital, Howard, Wash monument, Hola to Anacostia Hood ect...

.Loved that feeling coming around the corner and seeing the finish line, it's amazing how much

more energy you get with a crowed cheering you on! 4:30 YES!

GREAT JOB FRIENDS!!! What a fun day!

San Deigo Rock n Roll 5:34 no idea what i was doing, just following the leader

Honolulu 6:28 ALOHA! ran with a group, they likes to stop frequently for snakes, ditched them in the end.

Phoenix Rock n Roll 5:05 only trained for the half and decided to do the full the day before!

Washington DC 4:30 best training yet! national average for women 5 hrs/ men 4:30

LOVE race days!!! Lost track of the half's and minies.... known for jumping in the day before, there for no record for them

It only helps when you do it right...

2009-04-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Seriously FLOSSING will prevent bacteria from eating away at you GUMS and BONE.... Don't make so hard for yourself... when you shower do you only clean the front and back of your body??? DON'T forget to clean the side of your teeth!!!

... SAW too much of this TODAY ...

2009-02-15T14:17:00.000-08:00

Since Peanut Butter is on a hiatus right now... Almond Butter is so good and wont kill you with salmonella....

2009-02-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

16 miles are D.O.N.E.....
may have ran a little extra tonight and got lost in the getto but it sure felt great after we were done!!!

2009-02-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

Stuffed peppers!!!
so easy quinoa, spinach, onion, tomato, almonds= yumm!!!

Quinoa pronounced KEEN-wah or KEE-no-uh
this is the new SUPER food...
LOADed with PROTEIN and gluten free!!!

London's Run in Queen Creek 1/2 marathon done!

2009-02-15T13:06:00.000-08:00

HOW CUTE IS THIS CHEERING SECTION!!

Carly and her 3 adorable kids came to help cheer us on as we used this race to qualify for the DC Marthon. It was at Schnepf's Farm. I need to go back and go peach picking!!!

2009-01-18T14:29:00.000-08:00

In case you forgot how you are supposed to listen to an ipod...

Only wish this was on video

2009-01-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

8 MILES... Did a run along beautiful DRY CREAK and even more tranquil Modesto Canals

Jess your a rock STAR, are you sure you don't want to just JUMP in for the FULL MARATHON...

2009-01-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

Thanks Rachee

I'll remember this with every bite...

2009-01-06T21:48:00.000-08:00

Vinegar... It really works!! I remember Vicky telling Cassie and I about soaking a sunburn with it. Sure enough I tried it when I got sizzled by the oven rack. This burn was so painful but after 20 min of applying pure vinegar, I was back to jumping up and down!

2009-01-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

Rachel, Megan, and Shelley

Our mom is so talented, she made us and the grandkids all personal Raggedy Ann Dolls. There even is a personal message she wrote on the dolls.

Thanks Mom!!!

2008-12-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

YES I know you all have been getting at me to update my blog. Both my camera and computer are still broke. This makes blogging very difficult. Don't you worry... I'm getting back into it...

2008-12-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

~BAHAMAS~

2008-12-21T16:47:00.000-08:00

~OCHO RIOS ~

2008-12-21T16:38:00.000-08:00

~GRAND CAYMEN ISLAND~

2008-12-21T16:19:00.000-08:00

~COZUMEL~

2008-12-21T10:03:00.000-08:00

Don't laugh... Britney pulled it off!

There are at least 4 good song I like on her new album...

2008-12-19T17:25:00.000-08:00

... Ever Want To Know What's In My Head...

Yep that's me and my cranium. We have a state of the art Cephalometric X-ray machine at work and if you wanted to know what's in yours we can do it!

2008-11-05T22:52:00.000-08:00

Why do I love The Killers, I never get tired of them...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvVOoCKjonY
object width="425" height="344">

2008-11-05T22:21:00.000-08:00

My life feeling like a stay at home mom with no kids is numbered...

Back to work I go! Can't wait to Dazzle teeth November 17Th- FINALLY!

Until then no more posts, I will be setting sail on the high seas of the Western Caribbean on the debut of the Ruby Princess- AHOY!

2008-11-05T22:18:00.001-08:00

Inflicting pain on my body is about to begin. IV Marathon here I come! Tranning will be perfect here in the Arizona climate.

2008-10-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.yogatoday.com/include/playerPopUp_fullPage.php

I'm bringing yoga back into my life! Until I can find the perfect yoga studio, this one is pretty sweet. You can download classes from Yoga Today.com They have different levels and practices to chose from, and they are new every day. Best of all it's FREE!

2008-10-28T21:18:00.000-07:00

For all of you wanting to know how the car is...

I HEART IT !!!

2008-10-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

Sedona

So excited to see some fall foliage in Arizona! Jo one of my good friends had had the best idea ever to go hiking up Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona. It was so pretty with all the colors changing. It seamed to be right at it's peak. It was about a 3 mile hike and fun to see other hikers on the trail. I was so happy we were able to check out the vortex too! I've heared people talk about it and had to experience it for my self. Let's just say, it wasn't quite what I thought it was going to be. We hiked up this huge red rock and when we got to the top, that was it! At least in my eyes. It was absolutely beautiful looking down into the valley. We sat on the rock for a good while, other people were meditating and receiving energy perhaps. I maybe was in the wrong mind set. I was expecting to feel this huge experience, because it is a VORTEX! I probably was just not paying attention to the little tingling waves everyone else was feeling. That's why I need to work on my yoga practice more!

Lombard Street

2008-10-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know some of you read Cassie's blog so I have to write about this too. I love San Francisco it's one of my favorite cites. It's always fun to take people who haven't been down Lombard Street just for the Experience. If you haven been yet, It's known as the crookedest street in the world with all it's sharp switchbacks. Well before you can enjoy the thrill of going down the hill, you have to go up it! I've driven up this hill plenty of times and it's always a little scary but no big deal. This time it was supper busy. Traffic was very slow. It was basically grid lock going up. Now I know I was in an AUTOMATIC, but let's just remember it was brand new, and a lot heavier then the average car. As we start to inch our way up this 45 degree incline, I started to get a little panicked. I hated that feeling of rolling back ( I know it is an AUTOMATIC) I just didn't want it to roll an inch so I would gun it on the gas, then slam on the brakes. Lets just say Cassie was entertained It was until half way up I froze and was about to jump out, abandon the car, and let Cas drive as I walk up on foot. Finally got the courage after a minute of not moving and cars behind were waiting for us to keep moving up. This was too funny not to capture this on film, if only it was video taped !

There it is the big hill!

Notice the distance between us and the other car.

Think I was looking for a escape.

Right before I got the courage to floor it on the gas.

Broken, Broken and Broken!!!!

2008-10-23T00:28:00.001-07:00

I've had about all I can handle with these three things!!! First of all my lap top is slower then hot molasses. Anyone who has used it knows how frustrated I am. ( I won't even bring up the part where only half my screen works.) Second of all, my Blackberry is broken to no end. Very annoying when I don't get all my message and have to always talk on speaker phone! ( don't worry other people really can't hear you) Then this takes the cake this week, My point and shoot camera decided to malfunction and make lots of beeping noises while it smells like it's about to burst into flames!!! Bare with me untill these get three daily nessesities resolved.

Notorious Suicide Destination

2008-10-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

htt p://www.thebridge-themovie.com/new/index.html

After hearing a nurse who works at the emergency room in San Fransisco talk about jumpers and the documentary made about it. I was intrigued, so were Rob and Megan. Rob rented the movie The Bridge and ever since seeing it, I've wanted to go to it. Not that I would ever do THIS kind of bridge jumping, are you kidding me not with all those great whites in the freezing water! It's just that suicide the complete end to ones life, is fascinating to me why people choose the Golden Gate Bridge. The move is very interesting. It's eerie and there is some disturbing footage, but amazing how this who documentary unfolded. About every 15 days there is a jumper on average. In the film it caught about 2 a month. This day there were none. I gave friendly smiles to those that were walking out to the bridge alone and looked like they were complentationg life ( and looked like a potential jumper). I love bridges and this is one of my favorites, wanted to try my new camera out!

2008-09-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

I Really Want To

Speak French Fluently

Be a good Cook

Play the Guitar

Live in a forein Country

Become a better Photographer

My New Love For WATER

2008-09-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

Just finished my FIRST week with no SODA! I know this means nothing to some of you who may think I'll never stop. I admit I really (LOVED) my daily swig of Diet Dr Pepper. This time I am really doing it! I have known for years how bad soda is with all the chemical flavoring and sugars. Diet soda is even worse with added chemical and ASPARTAME- it will slowly kill ya! So this week I have tried different ways to flavor water. Try it out it's sooo refreshing. Just add one of these to a nice cold glass of water. Mint leaves, lemons slices, cucumbers slices, and frozen berries but I'm sure their is more to be creative with . Wont say I'll never drink it again, but defiantly don't have that afternoon craving for it.

Amazing Talented People

2008-09-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking of some amazing talented people I know, and well trying to come up with talents of my own. That just got me thinking this morning...

When I was in Copenhagen I was able to see the original Christus created by Bertel Thorvaldsen which resides in The Church of Our Lady. Learning more about the brilliant sculpture who created it, come to find out was never Christian and although Catholic found the church harsh and didn't seam to favor it.

Which leaves me so interested in a man who not very religious, was able to come up with such a magnificent master piece. Learning more I found out he had trouble with the placement of Christ's arms. Deciding with up reaching over head or folded across chest. It seems it came from divine intervention when the vision of "out stretched arms" came to be. It just is amazing to me how this not "religious" man was able to create such a work of wounder for all to see. Especially since The Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints requested to have a replica placed on Temple square in Salt Lake City Utah. When I walked into the empty Church of Our Lady there was not one person in there at the time. In the 30 min or so we stayed there was one person who walked in. He definitely looking down and struggling it seamed with his life. Just walking next to the original Christus as he sat next to it, you could see it gave him hope. Now that replica in SLC Utah is such a icon of sorts for the LDS church. It is the mosted viewed Christus through out the world, with not only the visitors on Temple square but also as it's image is used on publication of meda, websites, ect.

Here is a quote from Pres. Kimball
“Take a da Vinci or a Michelangelo or a Shakespeare and give him a total knowledge of the plan of salvation of God and personal revelation and cleanse him, and then take a look at the statues he will carve and the murals he will paint and the masterpieces he will produce (Pg. 5, Ensign , Jul., 1977).”

Back to running AZ style...

2008-09-11T23:09:00.000-07:00

Got up and it the trail at 6AM! It only felt like 80 degrees this morning!

Right after our small monsoon and torrential down poor! Our 5 miles turned into only 15 min!

Zoe conections

2008-08-17T20:57:00.000-07:00

Kelty is 22 months now and absolutely loves Zoe from Sesame Street. She is scared of Elmo but loves Zoe. It's so fun when I get a phone call from Megan and she says "Is Zoe there? Kelty would like to talk to her!" That's when I turn on the Zoe voice and try to get Kelty to sing and say fun words. Too Cute!!I know Meg may be viewed as the favorite aunt right now because she is able to call Zoe any time Kelty wants to talk to her. That will have to change.

The Firger Sweep Really Works

2008-08-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

So yet again, another most embarrassing moment for me! I went to dinner with a friend at Tucanos. It was my first time and I was just figuring out how the whole concept there works. Then somewhere between BBQ meat coming to the table, eating as fast as it was placed on the plate and trying to keep up with our conversation, It happened. There it was, an obstruction in my airway. I was sitting there trying to stay calm, although Tyler told me he could start to see me panic. I first tried to swallow the piece of meat that was lodged in my throat. When I felt that wasn't working I tried coughing the piece out. At this point Tyler is asking over and over "Do you need me to do the Heimlich?" He was on the edge of his seat ready to jump up as soon as I gave the signal! I kept fighting it trying to cough the piece out. ( I just in envisioned a even more embarrassing moment as he is doing abdominal thrusts and a piece of meat shooting out of my mouth across the restaurant). There was no way I was going to draw any more attention to the situation. Time was quickly running out for me and the last option available was the finger sweep! The piece of meat was lodged pretty good in my pharynx. It looked so gross as I pulled the half chewed up piece and placed it on my plate. My favorite comment was when Tyler said "You really should have let me do the Heimlich!" I just tried to continue like nothing ever happened.I cant believe that happened to me, I was so embarrassed! At lest it keeps me laughing when I think of it. Love Tucanos and the next time I'll just have to cut my meat into baby bits!

VOLVO

2008-08-17T01:35:00.000-07:00

Made it to the Volvo Factory! Took a 2 hour train ride from Copenhagen to Gotenburg Sweden. Volvo made arrangements to pick us up. Once we arrived they gave us a warm welcome and showed us to the food. Swedish meat balls! They had a nice lunch for us waiting and time to relax. It was now the moment I have been waiting for. They took me over to the delivery room and ta da! There was my brand new XC90. I was given a little tutorial before I hit the road with it. Best part I get to keep the Swedish licence plates!

Denmark

2008-08-17T00:39:00.000-07:00

Copenhagen!!
Alright I almost cancelled my flight home, I never wanted to leave. This was the greatest city of them all. So fun to walk/ bike around.

Germany

2008-08-16T23:58:00.000-07:00

Warnemunde and Rostock!
This was the perfect little beach resort. We found a Mormon church a short train ride away. We ran into some other Mormons who were visiting from Utah the day before and wanted to go to church with us. That was a lot of fun, most of the service was in German but was just like any other small brach/ward. After church we made little stops off the train and walked around store fronts.It's the law to keep stores closed on Sundays. Then we headed to the beach!

Poland

2008-08-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

Gdansk!
We had fun here, we took a half hour train ride to Gdansk. It's this cute little place by the water. They were celebrating St Dominic Day and got caught in a huge street parade.

Estonia

2008-08-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Tallinn!
This was the cutest place ever. Such a hidden treasure. One of the last mid evil towns still in existence. It is still a working and functional village that is brought into modern times.

Russia

2008-08-16T20:42:00.000-07:00

St. Petersburg!

So amazing to visit. In order to go anywhere in Russia we needed a tourist visa for both days, we signed up for 4 tours. We were busy! We went all over the city, traffic was insane and never want to have to drive through it. Experienced the metro train ride which was fun to see people on there way to work, food market, went to the few beautiful cathedrals and Palaces, Russian folk dancing, Russian tea house, and shopping (that was just a big tourist trap).

Sweden

2008-08-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

Loved Stockholm!! This the only cold and rainy day we had the hole trip. This city was so easy to get around. 1st we went to the Royal Palace and saw the changing of the guards. Walked through The Great Square (where the blood bath in 1520 when Denmark invaded Sweden) it's a beautiful park now with outdoor shopping and reasturants. Took a bus to the Vasa ship Maritime Museum where the only viking ship is that is fully recovered from the ocean. Made our way back Walking in and out of shops and at the same time hoping to find the Ice Bar, with no luck. Sad the Ice Hotel is closed/ melted too for the summer. They rebuild one every winter.

Findland

2008-08-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

Helsinki!
We had a delightful walk down in to town, passed really pretty parks aligned with park benches and huge statues. Ran into a cute farmers market, which we loved! Passed by the President's Palace, Lutheran Cathedral aka (The Wedding Cake and went to a prayer meeting. Went to The Rock Church, then spent the rest of the time shopping through the cutest shopping area and mall.

2008-07-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

Nissa's just got married in San Diego! Nissa and Jason got married on the beach at Sunset Cliffs. Nissa is so beautiful and looked even more beautiful in her wedding gown. At the reception I wanted to say a few word to the newly married couple, although when I turned to look at Nissa tears were streaming down her cheeks. That made me start to cry! The words I planned to say may not have flowed so eloquently as I'd like because we were both in tears. Nissa is one of my long time friends I have known forever. I am so happy for her and Jason and know they will have a wonderful future together.

The Farm

2008-07-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

One funny story of the farm I remember is when I was about 10 years old. It was summer, hot and we just drove 14 hours from California. Right when we drove up all the cousins and uncles ran up saying "come follow us to watch the calf be born!" All I remember is standing with about 10 people around the barn all watching the cow give birth. The next thing I remember, I'm laying on the ground in hay and dry manure! I can't believe no one saw me pass out/ faint/ whatever I was down for the count. I can remember walking into the farm house by myself and my mom asking where have I have been? I remember being mad that no one saw me laying in dry manure...

No more dairy cows. It's like a ghost town without them. Now there are only beef cows with one purpose in life... Sad. I don't think I can eat any meat after seeing these cute little baby cows.

This is where I first learned to drive... a tractor

I love the old dairy farm my Mom grew up on in Rupert Idaho. It brings back so many great memories. It has been years and years since I've been there. We went back for a little family reunion for the 4Th of July, all my mom's brother and sister's were there.

Ballons Galore...

2008-07-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday we got up at the CRACK OF DAWN, to watch the hot air balloons take off. It was part of Provo's Freedom Festival for the 4Th. It was so fun to see them fill them up with hot air. There were too many to count, and looked so beautiful as they ascended. As a child I remember them doing this behind our house because of the open field. I would love to go up in one, but feel like I would need a backpack parachute to ware just in case...

The quilt

2008-07-06T18:03:00.000-07:00

My parents were in town for Adelaide's baby blessing. One thing my mom wanted to do was have me pick out fabric for a quilt she wants to make me. My mom is making one for all her daughters. My great grandmother taught my mom to sew at a early age. She is very good and wished I had her talent. While were were at the fabric store, picking out 6 different fabrics and was the most stressful thing for me. It's not like I can just return it the next day, like I do everything else when I have buyers remorse. After 2 hours of picking out the perfect fabric, I am so excited and can't wait to see the finished product. Thanks Mom!

Grandma Fran

2008-06-06T00:12:00.001-07:00

Coming back from my trip I had the longest layover in Denver. Were talking 5 hours. I kept busy reading and talking on the phone. I had one more hour to go. That's when this man who was pushing a wheel chair stoped right in front of me. He told the women he was pushing "I'm going to park you right in front of this nice young women" I looked up and there was this nice looking elderly lady. I felt pretty drawn in the moment and could not look away. That women really reminded me of someone. All within 30 sec it came to me when she spoke in that sweet spunky voice. It was Grandma Fran! I could not believe it. I got this huge smile on my face and said Grandma this is our luck day! What are the chances us both having a layover in Denver and flying on the same flight to SLC. She was coming in from Chicago where her sister lives. Her sister had a park bench detacated to her that weekend in one on the parks she took care of in the city.It was so great to catch up with her. She looks great in her 85Th year. I love talking with Grandma Fran. She is a realist who belives in doing what is right for you. Full of great advice and I am so happy she married Grandpa Stan. They really were a great team. She loves sharing stories of Grandpa and their trip around the world.

Join Facebook

2008-06-06T00:09:00.000-07:00

There are all the pictures of Duck 08' on Facebook. Too tired to upload them all right now maybe later...

Virgina, DC, North Carolina, and Philly all in Two Weeks

2008-06-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a crazy but fun trip! The plan was to spend Memorial Day weekend at Duck Beach and then help Meg move to Philly and see Matt, Jess and the kids. To get the Outer Banks in North Carolina where Duck Beach is I flew to DC so I could meet up with friends to drive down. I came A couple days early so I could work in DC.

Tue Day One
Megan picked up Rachel and I from Dulles Airport in VA. ( weird to feel like I was visiting) We went to Chipotle, did a little shopping then headed to Sarah and Melisa's. They have such a cute little home in Shirlington. Believe it or not Meg, Rach and I all slept in Melissa twin bed. We all said it was so comfortable too!

Wed Day Two
Went to see my old office and say hi to the crew. That night Cassie being the great friend she is went with me to Baltimore to pick Mike up. We then headed to Nicole's and Tabbi's in Old Town. Such a cute place!

Thur Day Two
Worked for a Dr Sims in DuPont Circle Downtown DC
At lunch I walked by a armored truck that just got robed minutes before! Police weren't even on the scene yet. When I walked back after lunch all these people standing around and even a news camera crew were there. It was crazy, they totally got away hopefully whoever they were they got ink all sprayed on them.
Then I took the Metro to Friendship Heights and met Cassie for a nice run. Also got to meet Sam, Liv, and Nicole finally. Cute kids! (even though Sam thru a ball in my eye)It was a good throw but didn't hurt. Nicole was fun to talk to too.
After our nice run Cassie and I met up with Chareese and Rachel at Lebanese Tarverna. Cassie was talking this place up and she wasn't kidding. It was very good! Sad it was so close to us and never knew it. We finished off the might with a Gray's Anatomy finally and ice cream.

Fri Day Three
Cassie, Arian, Mike and I all packed up the car and headed down to OBX!
The Outer Banks is about a 5 hour drive depending on traffic could be more or less and we sure hit it. After the nice drive we were tired but ready to party the whole weekend.

Sat Day Four
Beach

Sun Day Five
Church
Beach

Mon Day six
Beach

Tue day Seven
Beach

Wed Day Eight
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Woke up with Breakfast in Bed, Rach made a birthday breakfast that was yummy.
It was rainy and left for Virgina in the afternoon.
That night in Richmond we went out for dinner for my Birthday. Thanks guys

Thu Day Nine
Drove with Rach to Philly
Meg packed up her car and we drove it there for her.

Days Ten thru Fourteen
Spent playing with Kelty and Walker, Longwood Gardens, WildWood New Jersey
It was so fun there reminded me lots of Connecticut!

Waiting game almost to an end...

2008-06-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

I am still waiting and waiting and waiting for the AZ Dental Board to meet. That time has come finally. June 6Th the committee will meet with the application I sent them in FEBRUARY! Anyways, so happy the time has come.I still have to wait 10 days for them to possess my licence after that. It is absolutely crazy to think it takes 10 days for a piece of paper to make it's way around the Dental Board to just to get my licence number. But whatever, I don't mind hanging out in Utah for the time being.I just am really ready to completely move and start working in Phoenix. Because I am here in Utah and don't have a permanent office I work in, that has allowed be to be REALLY Flexible with my time. So I'm taking a 2 week trip!

Going Green

2008-05-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

No more Diet Doctor Pepper! I had my last today. Enjoyed every lost drop.....

Instead I'm going green!

I'm back to being healthy again... Saw this a while back on Martha Stewart's show. It really is delicious and you are sure to get your 5 A Day fruits and vegetables. Best to keep extra in a mason jar to help keep air out and preserve the good enzymes in. Martha used this wonderful Brivel juicer. That you could put whole fruits and vegetables in and it completely liquefies it. I told myself if I can keep away from the soda all the money I save I'll buy the Brivel!

Makes 15 ounces
1 cup packed spinach leaves
1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
1 rib celery
1/2 cucumber
1/2 ripe pear
1/2 green apple
1/4 ripe papaya, seeds removed
1 piece (1 inch) ginger

I just blend it all with a little water and ice. It makes a great smoothie.

Adelaide is here!!!

2008-05-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Adelaide was so excited to be a part of life, she decided to come a couple weeks early! She is absolutely perfect in every way. Rachel was so happy she was here in Utah this weekend. We stopped by Aunt Christine's and she wanted to come with us to the hospital. Brought Aaron and Stacey some good hogi yogi, they were hungry.

David Archuleta Day!

2008-05-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

On my way to work Friday, I heard on the radio that America Idol finalist David Archuleta was doing a home coming visit to see his home town and see fans. I happened to be working in Murry Ut that day. The office I was in was just down the road to Murry High school. How could I be so lucky!! So after work I rushed down to the high school and saw David sing 4 songs. What a treat! There were around 6 thousand people. I made my way through the crowed, where I was surrounded by screaming 14 year old girls! It was pretty funny. It was fun to see him. I was so impressed how appreciated he was to everyone. He said over and over in his sweet voice " Thank you so much you guys" It must have been an emotional day for him. Being a Junior and going back to your high school to see everyone as a famous celebrity.

Remembering Bridgeport

2008-04-20T22:35:00.000-07:00

Connecticut hold a small place in my heart, so any time I get a chance to reminisce I love it. Since I'm here in Utah for a bit Melissa, Kim and I were able to get together at Pizza Factory and catch up with old times. Then We headed over to Trafalga were Scott had the hook up for us and Played all the arcade games we wanted! We cashed in our all tickets at the end for some fab prizes.

Mexico Riveria

2008-04-10T22:53:00.000-07:00

Finally got these pictures together!! Although my tan is fading, the memories are still alive. The cruise was wonderful! It was so great to say "goodbye port in San Diego" and Hello Mexico Sun! It was a 8 day cruise on Carnival. It was my first ever cruise and I was among some of the elite in cruising. They knew the ins and outs and made my trip fantastic. Mostly we spend the days waking up early to a good workout, (Cassie and I improvised with the short track), some breakfast then all day in the sun with SOFT SERVE YOGURT brakes. At night we got ready for our dinner and enjoyed too much food. We would finish up the night with a show and some of our own entertainment. The 3 ports were Acapulco with a Crazy taxi ride in a Herbie bug, and our own personal tour guide Fernando, where we saw some world class cliff divers for 350 peso. The next day we went to Ixatapa/ Zihuatanejo had Another crazy WATER taxi ride to the beach. Last stop was Manzino. This was my favorite I will be going back some day. We had a great time at one of the resorts Los Hotas.Every building was pure white and looked beautiful with all this vibrant colors around. I loved the trip! Hope to go again soon!

Newest unofficial director of CSI

2008-04-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

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One of the best things about LA is you never know when you will walk into a film crew. I happened to be in LA this weekend with my parents, when we were walking back to the hotel from the fashion district my Mom pointed out they were starting to film something. We started to walk close and my Dad being as savoy as he is was able to walk up and talk to some of the crew. We found out they were starting to film CSI. I'm not a be fan in fact I've never have seen a show. I just wanted to get a quick picture of their set. I thought it was pretty funny with the NYPD cars and NYC taxi's on the street. They also had street signs up for snow routes and subway stops. I was trying to dig out my camera and this guy came up to me and said "I know a thing or two about cameras, let me take some pictures with you in them. Anyways he moved the camera guy out of his seat and had me sit and look through the lens. After that Mr. Flirty told us to come back between 9 and 11PM they were filming a rain shot and it was going to be really cool. So we went back and sure enough they were getting ready to film again. By the way CSI NY and CSI Miami are all filmed in LA. All those people and buildings in the background are not what they seam. We watch them hose down the sidewalk with a fire hose then they had this huge crain with a sprinkler system attached ready to let "rain fall". That same guy Mr. Flirty found us again and said he had a better place for us to watch. He took us around the corner where all the directors were and said we were his friends and got to watching it on the monitors. It was kind of cool to see the behind the sceens.

Secret Addiction

2008-04-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Okay... I finally am admitting I have a problem. I love cool whip, more then anyone should! Cool whip can at all times be found in my freezer or fridge. I love it! Just 25 calories in 2 spoonfuls of cool whip light. It's the perfect fix when your having those sugar cravings. Yummy with just a couple dollops on hot chocolate, pudding, berries, smoothies etc... you get it. Although lately I have realized and admit I eat way too much of it. I'm starting to think too much is a bad thing and contributing to my inability to achieve my 6 pack.
Just out of curiosity looked more into the ingredients. I was surprised that their is a high count of fructose corn syrup (FAT), coconut oil (FAT) also found in my suntan lotion, and ethylene oxide (found in anti-freeze)but don't let all that scare you it's all in how your body metabolizes it. With a little more research on the stuff I found a guy who wanted to teach his daughter the difference between real food and fake food so he made real whipping cream (Heavy whipping cream, vanilla, sugar) and compared it to cool whip. He set it out and in minutes the REAL whipping cream started to liquefy. He continued to leave out the cool whip and documented it for 12 days. After 12 days of being out on the counter it never melted or became runny in fact it got hard! I cant promise never eating it again because it is so good. Lets say I'll limit my consumption and I just wont buy it anymore.

check out these two sites
http://jonathanfields.com/blog/horrifying-12-day-cool-whip-experiment/
http://www.pbs.org/kcet/wiredscience/video/102-cool_whip.html

Love Love Love Arizona...

2008-03-20T22:48:00.000-07:00

I do have to say life is a lot different here then the busy Urban City life. It took a little adjusting, but I think I'll be just fine. It was when I was coming back from a run and the sun was setting when I realized I was really home. I have missed those amazing sunsets. I have two great new roommates Andrea and Kelly ( I'm so happy Kelly has a long board skateboard too!)I'm really excited because Nicole and Jo just live a few doors down too. There are going to be some fun times ahead!

Last Memories of DC...

2008-03-20T08:29:00.000-07:00

New Favorite Restaurant...

2008-03-20T00:24:00.000-07:00

CARLYLE!! This is my new favorite restaurant in Shirlington! My roommates and some friends took me out to brunch the morning before I flew out. I'm sad the only time I went to it was the very last day I was in DC. Everything on the menu is looks AMAZING! I highly recommend Brioche french toast lightly breaded in almonds and cinnamon. I loved the ambiance of the whole place. From the cool light fixtures to the big round leather automen, and the art deco was pretty cool too. I'm sorry I tried to label the other photos but for some reason it wont let me. Earlier in the week their were many events and happenings. Anne is headed off to Guatemala and I to Arizona. So one night we went to dinner at Maggiano's up at Friendship Heights. after filling up on pasta, we finished the night off with their chocolate with chocolate cake, that made everyone a bit goofy with a sugar high. Then we had a little desert party that Meghan, Matt, Jen, and Cassie put together and finished that night off dancing at the Skydome! Best panoramic view of the city while the floor rotates.

3 years with my sister

2008-03-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

The last 3 years has been amazing. When Megan decided to make the big move to Connecticut, I was so excited. I'm not sure at first if she was going to like living with me as a roommate. At times I'm sure I was being over protective. For me I'll was look back at this as a special time. Without living with Megan I never would have developed a close bond like we have now. Hygiene school enough would do it, but with the day to day encounters too, those have been priceless. Their are many things I've learned about Meg living with her, But three stand out the most. Meg loves to bake yummy pies, cakes, cookies, cupcakes! If you ever tried them you would know. She makes it looks so easy when she whips up these treats! Another thing about Meg I love is she is so witty. So of the things she says are so funny and they come to her so fast! I laugh for a while when she is telling a story, or even better if she is playing a practical joke on someone with her funny voices she can do. The one thing I love the most about Meg, is her Christ like attribute of not being selfish. She would amaze me with how much she is willing to give to others. She is a great example of giving, and good example to me. I'm so thankful for our times together as roommates. We even had Rachel live with us last summer. That by far was my funnest summer ever. It was a special time with my sisters. I really learned a lot from them both.

Life In a Box....

2008-02-25T10:48:00.000-08:00

I'm packing it all up, my life that is. After living and working four years in Connecticut, NYC, and DC, I'm headed back West. I've been doing some major consolidating as I sort through everything I have. Just trying to pack up everything nice and tight as I get ready to ship it off. There have been some great times in my life here. So many experiences that have happened that I truly have grown and taken something from them. It was hard for me to leave California and my beach lifestyle, but it was the best decision I have ever made. Now I feel it's hard to leave my fast pace urban living life here. More than anything I will miss those wonderful hart felt friendships I have made. Let's not lose touch...

I fell for it !

2008-02-17T22:09:00.000-08:00

Tyrone fron The Hood
The two master minds

So Megan lost her phone yesterday, she thought she may have left it at the basket ball game. Well about 10pm I got a text message that said "I just found this phone! I think you know who it belongs to". So I text back saying yes I do know, then I called. This guy in a deep hevey voice said his name was Tyrone and she could stop by and get the phone, He was just kicken it with his buddy and to bring a forty for the trouble of it all." I gave him Rob's number and I called Blake right away to see if he was home and he could go as back up or something. Maybe it was because I was watching Law and Order at the time, but this Tyrone sounded scarry. I just had a bad image in mind of how this all was going down. Well right when I was telling Blake the whole story Rob called my phone and I switched to talk to him. Rob asked who this guy was and said he lived in a bad part of Richmond and woundered if it sounded leget. I was like man I dont know, you need to bring some back up or something. In my mind I could see Tyrone giving them a hard time. He just sounded like bad news. Right then Rob said someone wanted to talk to me, Then in this same deep hevey voice Tyrone started talking!!! You guys got me good can't belive I fell for it like that. Don't worry I'm alredy working on getting ya back...

A day of Chocolate

2008-02-17T19:57:00.000-08:00

Actual dresses made in Project Runway
Best Ewey Gooey Sunday Ever...
Cassie Jenn and I
Cassie, Jenn and I
What? Is that me blowing kisses...

Saturday I spent the day with some girlfriends in Hershey Pennsylvania. It is only about a two hour drive, so it was the perfect day trip. First we stoped at the World of Chocolate and walked around a little. They don't do tours in the Hershay plant like the one in Oakland California, although that one has moved to Mexico. After having an amazing Reeses peanut butter cup sunday, (that was the best sunday ever!) we headed over to The Hotel Hershey. It is a beautiful old hotel, that had a unique ambance. At the hotel there is a Chocolate Spa where we had scheduled a Whipped Coco Bath. It was a a very relaxing day at the spa. We ended the night at the resturant Fire Ally. It was a very cute place with the most wounderful cheese bread that you dip in a spicy peppered olive oil. I could eat the whole loaf myself.

Emergency Appendectomy...

2008-02-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

This was right after surgrey. Those ice chips are so yummy!!!
Waiting in the ER... Thomas the big flirt kept us entertained. I think we made his day
Cassie with her special VIP visitor pass... I owe her big...
Right after I woke up from surgrey. Christian stoped by, it was nice to see a doctor I know.

So it turns out last Friday my appendix was a little inflamed and needed to be removed right away! I knew my body felt a little different, but I just thought I was gaining weight and getting fat. So I was going to the gym and working out more. In fact the night before I went to the ER I made myself go to a spin class! Funny to look back now, that night I was in pain and I knew something was not right. First thing in the morning I called my doctor and he sends me right away to the ER. He thought it sounded like my appendix, because most of my pain was on my lower right abdomonal. Thankfully Cassie was able to take to the Hospital. When I arrived to Washington Hospital Center, we were in the heart of DC. It was such a long and drawn out day. So much waiting and tests taken that resulted in more waiting... Cassie stayed the whole time at the hospital. I tried to send her home. We tried to keep entertained by all the ER patients that would rolled in. It was fun to see the hospital staff working away too. The CT scan was the absolutly the worst ever. First they give you this lovley cocktail of iodine and berry juice and make you down that while you wait a half hour. Then they take you down to Radiology where they prep you for more fun. Rectal intubation to say it nicley. That was the weirdest feeling ever! I had this metalic taste in my mouth, while more iodine was filtrated through out my body making everything very warm. Although I am glad I had the CT, doctors were able to see right away that my appendix was infected. Good news was that it was not perferated and that they would be able to operate laproscopicaly. Thank goodness! No scars! The only sad thing my scuba trip to Grand Cayman Islands has be postponed. The surgrey was exactily 7 days before scuba diving! I was really looking forward to this amazing trip. I was planning on doing at least 7 dives including the advance open water certification dive to 100 feet. Not only was it in the best place ever to scuba dive, but I felt like I was physicaly and mentally ready to dive again. I felt I was ready to overcome this hinderance of water because of what happened last time I went diving. As sad as it is I trully am thankful my apendix reacted when it did. For sure something would have happened in the Caymans and the situation could have been alot worse. There will always be another chance and my appendix wont get in the way of it next time...

This is it....

2008-01-30T19:26:00.000-08:00

Meg and I just got back from test driving the XC90. It's Volvo's midsize SUV. I love it !!! We dove the 2006 silver with black leather interier. The rear window was a little hard to get use to. It seams so small. I love that it was such a smooth ride compared to the Explorer. The Volvo is the safest SUV out there, it's built as one frame. Which helps with stability control system. Yeah I'm sold it only took 60 seconds for me to figure out It's what I really want. Thanks Chris for helping us, and offering us all that soda. I'd buy a car from you!

Loves water again...

2008-01-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

I can't believe I made it through 12 hours a day all MLK weekend of SCUBA DIVING.
It has been 7 years since my slight incident with running out of air during my last scuba trip. The first time I went swimming again in the ocean again was 3 years ago at Long Beach, Long Island. This scuba course was another big steep for me. Dan has been a good friend the whole time telling me there's no pressure with this dive trip. Only 12 more days until I'm diving in Grand Cayman Island!!!

2008-01-26T23:20:00.000-08:00

This was before the race, it was freezing...
Cooper and Elle made us a sign and waited a long time for us to run by
Mile 20, it was really great to see Cassie's family here, just 6 more to go
We did it!!

Well I set the year off right by knocking out 26.2 miles in the Arizona Rock & Roll marathon. I ran it with my friend Cassie. I never would have been able to make it with out her!!!! We only got up to 14 miles in out training. With different schedules, some knee injures and 30 degree tempters to work with made it difficult at times. In fact I flew there thinking we were going to skip the race or at the very least run in the half marathon. Well when Cassie and her sister picked me up from the airport, she said we are doing it! I'm so glad we did. There was so much excitement in the air the day of the race. I was feeling pretty good until about mile 7. That's when I questioned myself on what in the world I was doing, there was so many more miles to go. Cassie uploaded music on are ipods, the night before. Their were some great songs that were good to run to, and others that entertained me and gave me a bolt of energy. Around mile 23 /24 I was having trouble. By then my legs were like caring heavy weight as I ran. Their was pain but just ignored it. Their was no way I would quit now. The finish line was almost there. Cassie and I ran the whole 26.2 miles together and finished in 5 hours and 5 minutes. I love to tell people that we beat Katie Holmes time when she ran her NYC marathon. We did amazingly well, Thank you Cassie for pushing me when I needed the little push. This was her first marathon and I'm so proud of you. You did amazing!!! Now that the high is over and pain gradually subsided, it's sad to see all those memories fade off in the distance. Although we just saw the movie The Spirit of a Marathon. Which I can say was inspired to run the Chicago Marathon next!