Mark and Andrea

New sport for all those mothers out there - Extreme Ironing

2008-08-20T12:50:00.001-06:00

To learn more, check out this website: http://www.extremeironing.com/index.php

Joe, American

2008-08-15T11:16:00.002-06:00

This guy is AWESOME. Too bad our presidential candidates don't listen. Perhaps they should, as Jeff Foxworthy says, "Take that car key out of your ear."

Because He Loves Me

2008-08-13T12:37:00.006-06:00

Mark loves me.
He really does.

So, I ride a motorcycle. I have ridden a motorcycle for over two years now. I originally got my motorcycle because of various reasons. But, I love it. Last year, I hung out with my motorcycle buddies almost all summer. We even did a four-day ride to Yellowstone.

When Mark and I first started dating, he told me that my riding a motorcycle was okay with him. I told him that not riding a motorcycle was okay with me. (Though, it seems like all my family and friends are concerned with his lack of motorcycle history.)

But, Mark did something to impress me. And everyone else. Because he's soooooooo awesome.

Mark took a motorcycle class.

He took it on August 4 - 7. He left work early and didn't get home until about nine o'clock each day. He had two days in a classroom setting talking about the mechanics of motorcycle riding and motorcycle safety. He also had two days at a parking lot, on a bike.

I went to the riding course on Thursday (his last night) and spied on him. I wanted pictures to prove he took the class. He's so awesome....

Yesterday he went to the DMV and officially got his motorcycle learner's permit. He's been riding my motorcycle and Jarom's motorcycle to practice for the riding test--so he'll be entirely official.

Let me clarify. I past the riding test already, and can be endorsed up to 649 cc, but because of the new stupid law, if I want to be fully endorsed for any size motorcycle, I have to pass the test on a bike larger than 650cc. So, I am using Jarom's bike to take the riding retest.

Yah, he's incredible.
He is soooooooooo awesome.
What a catch.
*sigh*

I Am Not a Hypochondriac

2008-08-12T13:44:00.004-06:00

I hiked Mt. Timanogos on July 25. My knees killed on the way down the mountain, especially my left knee. It turns out I really do have something wrong with my knees.

I went to the doctor on Friday (exactly two weeks from the hike) and described everything that happened, described how my knees were before, and since the hike.

He thinks that I have PFP (patello-femoral pain). My patella is not in the right place (centered), and therefore, it is causing me some pain. (Though it is not as extreme as pictured above, that is just to show the concept.) I'm going to go to physical therapy to see if I can learn how to correct it.

He told me that my vastus medialis is either not triggering when it's supposed to and/or it is too weak compared to the other three of my quadriceps. The vastus medialis is the muscle that holds the patella in the center of the knee.

He told me that this condition is often found in women because their legs don't go straight down, they go down at an angle. This angle is because of how our pelvis spreads out when we hit puberty.

Any way, yah...so, it wasn't my imagination that something was wrong. And, I'm glad it's not worse than this.

Pete's Dragon, "I Love You Too"

2008-08-08T15:56:00.004-06:00

This is a great tune that both Andrea & I love. It is one of our wedding songs.

Iron Giant - one of the greatest unknown cartoons

2008-08-08T15:16:00.005-06:00

I saw this one on the Disney Channel many years ago, and loved it. Here is the ending to remind those that have seen it.

Diet Questions Answered

2008-08-08T14:35:00.003-06:00

Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?

A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
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Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?

A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
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Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?

A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain.
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Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?

A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.
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Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?

A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!
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Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?

A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!!.... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
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Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?

A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.
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Q: Is chocolate bad for me?

A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!
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Q: Is swimming good for your figure?

A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.
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Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?

A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.

And remember: 'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO! What a Ride'

AND......

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION

Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

This was posted at www.cougarboard.com and Andrea and I both thought it was great

Taking a Chance

2008-08-04T11:15:00.015-06:00

On Friday, Mark and I decided to take a chance. We thought we would go camping--without reservations.

Here's the low-down. Apparently, making a reservation at a campground is almost a necessity. We didn't know this. What we did know is that when you make a reservation, it has to be for two days. We didn't want to camp two nights because we wanted to be home for church on Sunday. Hence, taking a chance.

We drove past Park City, into Oakley, and then up Weber Canyon. Our destination was Smith and Morehouse Reservoir. There is a campground on the north side and the south side of the reservoir.

We checked out the north campground first. Smith & Morehouse has 34 spots--all 34 were reserved and/or occupied. Then we checked out the south campground. Ledgefork has 73 spots--all but 1 were reserved and/or occupied. We just happened to get there at the right time.

In fact, when the camp hosts came around to get our money, they told us the campers had just up and left--suddenly. They told us that if we had got there five minutes earlier, the campers might have still been there. If we had got there five minutes later, someone else would have snatched up that spot. It was destiny.

The previous campers had left us a stack of wood--and a burning fire. Well, smoldering. But, the flames lit up without any persuasion. I'm glad we didn't have to go wood hunting. Or pay for it (since the camp hosts have wood for $6). There was just enough for our little fire for the night and the next morning--and plenty enough for us to play around in. Only you can prevent forest fires!

We quickly set up our tent so we could fix dinner and play games. While we were setting up our tent, our neighbor came over bearing four foil dinners. She said, "We made extra foil dinners, would you like one, or two?" We were surprised, and very grateful. We took one each. Mark tossed them in the fire and we continued putting our tent up.

I taught Mark how to put up our tent. He likes it. And, it's plenty big for us to grow with--whenever that happens.

Too many minutes later, we attended to our free meals--only to find them charred beyond all recognition. I tried to eat mine, but it was no use. Oh well.... :-D heheheheheh..........

Good thing we had our planned dinner to fill our bellies: steaks and jello.

We played Scrabble and Mark (as usual) kicked my behind. We played Think-it - Link-it (a word game). We roasted marshmallows and had smores. And, we goggled at the expanse of beautiful stars blanketing our campground. The sky was stunning. Mark said he saw an asteroid. Sweet!

The next morning, we had cereal and graham crackers for breakfast. Then we took down the tent and played more games. We played one of the fastest games of War known to man--perhaps three minutes. I won. Then we played a second game of War that was also quick. I won that one too.

We also just sat and talked as we poked at our little fire. It was so relaxing. *sigh* (Part of our conversation was about what we could do--like walk down by the lake. But, we were too lazy. Ha!)

Mark picked me some pretty flowers. Probably just as sweet as the flowers themselves, was Mark’s comment, “I picked these for you. [grin] Don’t worry—you don’t have to keep them.” I love flowers—but I think they would have quickly died—even on the short ride home. So, instead of taking them home with us, I just took this picture. Mark’s the best! I am one lucky woman.

We ate hot dogs and plums for lunch before heading down the mountain.

It was a great break from routine--and it was good to get all smelly. Mark's a good camping buddy. And, I'm so glad we took that chance! Woohoo!!!!

Between the BBQ & the parties: THE HONEYMOON!!

2008-08-01T19:52:00.000-06:00

DAY 1: Leave, Arrive, and Leave

The early, early, early morning of the day after partying it up at our BBQ in Murray, we had Andrea's brother, Jarom, drive us to the airport. We had packed the day before, so we could just get up and go.

Our flight was at about 7:45 a.m. and we flew to Houston, Texas. At the airport, we were met by our charter bus but waited for about 1 hour for more guests.

From Houston, we took the bus to Galveston, Texas. Being the day before Memorial day, the traffic was horrible. We arrived at the Carnival Cruise Line, about 20 minutes before the boat was supposed to leave.

This was my first cruise, but Andrea's third cruise. Of course, we were very tired and hungry, but we had to do a drill and put on our life jackets and be lectured on where to go in case of an emergency. I don't remember what they said, I wasn't really paying attention.

We quickly took a tour of our boat and got some food. Food was my favorite aspect of being on the boat. I ate about 5 meals a day and after 7 days, gained 15 lbs.

Andrea then felt sick and I had to run around the ship looking for aspirin. I found it. She fell asleep and slept for like 4 freaking hours!!! I watched TV. They sent us live TV from Colorado. Weird!

We finally made it to the dinner, barely, and met our servers for the trip. We then went to a show and met the dancers for the week. To us, our singers/dancers were not just Vegas rejects, but they were Reno rejects.

DAY 2: Fun Day at Sea

We had a full day of ocean bliss, we again toured the boat. We went to the pool and ate food. We took several naps (wink wink) and ate more food.

That night was a formal night and we dressed in our best Samoan clothes.

I thought I would be the only man on the ship in a skirt, but our cruise director, "Little Jimmie," a Scot, had his kilt on.

That night we saw a ventriloquist. We both thought that he was pretty good. One of his bits he used a magic drawing board.

DAY 3: Water, Water All Around and Not a Drop to Drink

We had another pretty lazy day where we layed out and tanned, ate lots of food, and played a few games of bingo.

That night, there was a color war. We were on the blue team. It was a little junior high-ish, but we had some fun. I even won the "air guitar" competition and got a monkey coconut. We gave the drink away--because it was alcohol.

DAY 4: Ya-Man!

We docked in Montego Bay, Jamaica. This was a great day. We got on a bus and traveled to Ocho Rios at Dunn's falls. Here, we climbed, of course, 8 rivers.

Of course, they wouldn't let us take our camera with us, so they could get us to buy their pictures and a DVD. Here was the picture we bought.

We had quite a unique group with us as we all held hands and climbed the falls. Our favorite couple had to be the gay European body builders.

As we left the falls, the Jamaicans quickly attacked us to buy their souvenirs. One guy showed us two small carvings of a man and woman. He asked us for our names and he quickly carved them into them and then asked us for $40 for mine and he would give us Andrea's for "free." Andrea did not want to give him our names because then we would have to buy them. I was thinking, once he has put our names on it he will take whatever we give him. I gave him $10 for both.

We then went down the road and swam with dolphins. Yes, we swam with dolphins. Our dolphin was named Nemo. We got into groups of about 8, and were able to do various tricks with Nemo, including getting a kiss and swimming with him. For those that never have touched a dolphin, they are very slippery. (Mark totally made out with Nemo. It took me a few days to get over that.)

A traditional Jamaican lunch was included in our excursion. There were two sections with food. The right side was where we were supposed to get food. The left side was covered up but I opened a lid and saw nice chicken. I took a piece and gave it to Andrea. I then went to get a piece for me and I was quickly attacked--they took my plate of food away. I had to go back in line and get the inferior food. I did eat 1/2 of the chicken I gave to Andrea.

Of course, Andrea slept on the way back to the floating hotel.

Before we got back on the boat, I helped out a local band with their performance.

It rained that night.

DAY 5: ARRRRRG!!!! The Pirate's Life for Me

The next day we arrived in the Grand Caymens. It is incredibly flat. The highest point is a man-made dirt pile, towering over the island at 100 feet. It is an old pirate island, so that is the theme of the island.

I booked a scuba diving trip for Andrea. Not being certified like me, her dive was called a "Discovery Scuba." The instructor gave her a brief lesson on the shore, and then we went down into the water. I tagged along and we only reached about 20 feet, but I got to see a lot cool fish and a sunken boat. Apparently the boat struck a reef, so the British Navy blew it up. Here is Andrea getting instructions on the gear.

Andrea did a great job and survived her first dive.

After the dive, we walked around the town. There were several pirate statutes around. Andrea got caught by one.

That night was another formal night. (Mark is so freakin' handsome.)

That night the cooks made some neat food decorations.

DAY 6: Viva la Mexico!!!

The last stop was Cozumel, Mexico. We wanted to just go swimming in the ocean, but decided to go horseback riding and see some ruins. We should have gone to the beach.

It was fun riding the horses, but the ruins were all replicas. The only real ruins were caves.
Before we got on our horses, Andrea showed off her great balancing skills.

Here we are on our horses.

After the horses, we again walked around town. In the other stops, we saw only 1"slug bug" and it was on a billboard (though I dispute that it was a slug bug). In Mexico, Slug Bugs are about 25% of all the vehicles. Though we didn't see "Herbie," Andrea did see her name sake.

DAY 7: Time for Home

The last day we spent sailing back to Texas. That night, we decided to wear our teeth to dinner.

Well, that was our trip. We had a lot of fun. Cruises are great, especially if you like to eat. Like me!

A Remarkable Woman

2008-07-31T09:03:00.002-06:00

For some reason, I am drawn to many things regarding the Holocaust. I own three DVD documentaries. I own a couple books. I tend to watch Holocaust things on tv when I'm flipping through the channels. I've visted the Holocaust museum in DC a few times.

I find great respect for people who came out of the Holocaust--both survivors and heroes. I find great distaste for the Nazis on so many levels it makes me sick.

Well, Mark just emailed me this video clip and I feel obliged to share it. (I tend to forward fewer and fewer emails these days. However, this one is worthy of forwarding.)

This is the type of woman I hope I can be. This is the type of woman I respect and who I think deserves the respect of all.

E-Burg

2008-07-29T09:19:00.019-06:00

Ellensburg, Washington. It's affectionately called "E-Burg." I was just thinking the other day that it's probably a good thing it wasn't named "Ellensville."

View Larger Map
Anyway, Mark and I went to E-Burg for an open house in our honor. We took our time on the roadtrip up to the middle of Washington.

We stopped in Boise, Idaho, and spent a couple hours in the Boise Temple, worshipping.

Staying in town, we had dinner with one of Mark's childhood friend--Kelly Mower. Mark and Kelly haven't seen each other since they were 13! That's a long time. It was great to meet Kelly and his wife. We laughed for a long time and enjoyed a great dinner.

That evening, we stayed in Nampa, Idaho, with one of my all-time best friends (Karen) and her family. Karen has twins, Hailie and Wendi, and a boy, Ben. We got some good laughs in before we continued on our journey to E-Burg.

We next stopped in Richland, Washington, and spent a couple hours in the Columbia River Temple, worshipping. We met a couple people who ended up coming to our open house two days later.

The next day, Mark took me on a tour of E-Burg.

We saw this really strange house with a lot of unusual art decorating it. Trust me--you can't miss it. It's called "Dick & Jane's Spot." They are artists who married each other.

We saw the campus of Central Washington University where Mark's dad was a professor for many years.

We looked over the rodeo grounds of one of the most famous annual rodeo events.

We walked downtown and saw the gorgeous Davidson Building (that we also got an amazing sketching of as a wedding gift).

Mark checked the local livestock for their goods. I just enjoyed getting to know the livestock, on a different, perhaps more appropriate, level.

Then Mark took me up on top of one of the nearby mountains so I could look down over the valley. We did a little hike to a place called Umptanum Falls. It was a short little jaunt and it was ever so lovely.

That evening we went with the folks up a different canyon to have a little picnic at Taneum campground. It was cold. So, the food was hastily processed in--and the people hastily motored out. That fast. Lickety split.

When we got back, Mark and I went to Kung Fu Panda and we laughed our guts out. Well, not literally. But enough that we felt quite light-hearted the rest of the weekend and quoted lines to each other. Po: "The Sword of Heroes! Said to be so sharp you can get cut just by looking at - Ow!"

The next day we had our open house. Refer to the previous post.

Sunday, we drove all the way back to our house.

Once Upon a Time...in Two Lands Far Away

2008-07-29T08:48:00.006-06:00

Once upon a time, a young man, Prince Charming (PC), and a young woman, Ace--the Biker Chick (ABC), decided to have some parties. They decided to start off these celebrations, they would get married. In all, PC and ABC decided three parties sounded sufficient enough to celebrate their union.

PC and ABC decided the first party would be near their home. Then PC's mother and ABC's mother each decided there should be a party where they lived. PC and ABC agreed. So, PC, ABC, and the two mothers got to work, inviting all of each kingdom to their respective parties.

The first party, the one near PC and ABC's home was a major success. People came from miles away to eat and laugh and hug and relax.

Then PC and ABC went away on a trip while their mothers continued working on the next two parties.

When PC and ABC got home, they first went to ABC's homeland and had a marvelous party. Balloons and bright paper brightened up the celebration. Chicken salad sandwiches were provided for all the guests. Delicious chocolate-dipped cookies and pink frosted sugar cookies were also provided. ABC's aunts and uncles came from many hours away and surprised ABC and her mother. ABC was able to introduce PC to many people who were influential in ABC's youth.

It was a grand occasion.

Following this party, PC and ABC made the journey to PC's homeland and again had a marvelous party. Flowers and nice table cloths garnished the building. Chairs were circled about to welcome guests. Cakes were served with delicious nut cups. PC was light on his feet as he was so happy to be with people who influenced him. PC introduced ABC to wonderful teachers, neighbors, and friends. PC's mother and father were congratulated and laughter abounded.

This too, was a grand occasion.

PC and ABC still talk about how wonderful all of their parties were. PC and ABC are grateful to friends and family who helped and who attended. PC and ABC know how much work their mothers (and fathers) put into all three events and think they have the best parents.

Jordan River Parkway

2008-07-22T12:21:00.005-06:00

You're going to think I'm nuts...but I just found out last night that I live right by the Jordan River Parkway. D'oh!

I mean--HELLO McFly!

Yah. Well, Mark and I decided last night to go for a walk. We decided to walk to the dumpy park across the street. Lo and behold! One side of that dumpy park is outlined by the Jordan River Parkway.

And silly me--I have wondered where the parkway was in relation to our condo. If I'd only taken a few minutes to go look.

So, we walked for about a half hour one way. Right now it is not the most gorgeous of trails (the heat is taking its toll on some of the plants). But, it is actually a really nice place to walk (if you are wearing insect repellent). And the path is pretty smooth. I mean, even I could (if I had them) roller blade on the path without crashing and burning.

Next time we'll walk the other direction. And perhaps not wear flip flops.

Check these links out too: Utah Outdoor Activities, Wikipedia, and Go City Kids.

Perhaps I should ask: What cool things have you recently discovered? Especially things you've discovered near your house where you thought you already knew it all.

Memories...Oh, Sweet Memories

2008-07-17T08:29:00.003-06:00

Here are the directions:

1. As a comment on our blog, leave one memory that you and I had together--or you and Mark had together. It doesn't matter if you know us a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about us, we'll assume you're playing the game and we'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, we'll leave our memory of you in our comments.

What Is Love?

2008-07-16T12:58:00.004-06:00

So, I got an email today...one I've received many times before...and it made me smile again. I've posted part of it on the right side of the screen in our quotes section.

My favorite one is: “You really shouldn’t say ‘I love you’ unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.”

I actually try to tell people that I love them often--because people do forget. And, it's always a good thing to say.

What does love mean to you?

200 Haves or Have-Nots

2008-07-09T15:41:00.011-06:00

I thought this was really cool. All you need to do is copy this list and bold the items that you have done. I found this on Tammy’s blog and thought I would join in.

Mark's "haves" are (*)
1. Touched an iceberg
2. Slept under the stars (*)
3. Been a part of a hockey fight
4. Changed a baby's diaper (*)
5. Watched a meteor shower (*)
6. Given more than you can afford to charity (*)
7. Swam with wild dolphins (*)
8. Climbed a mountain (*)
9. Held a tarantula (*)
10. Said "I love you" and meant it (*)
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise (*)
15. Seen the Northern Lights
16. Gone to a huge sports game (*)
17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty (as high as they would let me)
18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables (*)
19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope (*)
20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment (*)
21. Had a pillow fight (*)
22. Bet on a winning horse
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill (not to play hookie, but to go to doctor's appointments)
24. Built a snow fort (*)
25. Held a lamb (*)
26. Gone skinny dipping (*)
27. Taken an ice cold bath (*)
28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar (*)
29. Seen a total eclipse (*)
30. Ridden a roller coaster (*)
31. Hit a home run (*)
32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking (*)
33. Adopted an accent for fun (*)
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors (*)
35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment (*)
36. Loved your job 90% of the time (*)
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (*)
38. Watched wild whales
39. Gone rock climbing (*)
40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach (*)
41. Gone sky diving
42. Visited Ireland
43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant (*)
44. Visited India
45. Bench-pressed your own weight (*)
46. Milked a cow (*)
47. Alphabetized your personal files (*)
48. Ever worn a superhero costume (*)
49. Sung karaoke (*)
50. Lounged around in bed all day (*)
51. Gone scuba diving (*)
52. Kissed in the rain (*)
53. Played in the mud (*)
54. Gone to a drive-in theater (*)
55. Done something you should regret, but don't (*)
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business (*)
58. Taken a martial arts class (*)
59. Been in a movie (*)
60. Gone without food for 3 days
61. Made cookies from scratch (*)
62. Won first prize in a costume contest (does the Jr. High Battle of the Classes count?)
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Been in a combat zone
65. Spoken more than one language fluently
66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone (*)
67. Bounced a check
68. Read - and understood - your credit report
69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy (how recently? I have Tinkertoys that I love) (*)
70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did (but I've forgotten already) (*)
71. Called or written your Congress person (*)
72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over (*)
73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
74. Helped an animal give birth
75. Been fired or laid off from a job (*)
76. Won money
77. Broken a bone
78. Ridden a motorcycle (*)
79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph (*)
80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing (*)
82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days (*)
83. Eaten sushi (*)
84. Had your picture in the newspaper (*)
85. Read The Bible cover to cover (*)
86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about (*)
87. Gotten someone fired for their actions
88. Gone back to school
89. Changed your name
90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands (*)
91. Eaten fried green tomatoes (*)
92. Read The Iliad
93. Taught yourself an art from scratch
94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt (*)
96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language (*)
97. Been elected to public office
98. Thought to yourself that you're living your dream
99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you
101. Had a booth at a street fair (*)
102. Dyed your hair
103. Been a DJ (*)
104. Rocked a baby to sleep (*)
105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all four (*)
106. Raked your carpet
107. Brought out the best in people (*)
108. Brought out the worst in people (*)
109. Worn a mood ring (*)
110. Ridden a horse (*)
111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap
112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe (*)
113. Buried a child
114. Gone to a Broadway (or equivalent to your country) play
115. Been inside the pyramids
116. Shot a basketball into a basket (*)
117. Danced at a disco
118. Played in a band
119. Shot a bird (*)
120. Gone to an arboretum (*)
121. Tutored someone (*)
122. Ridden a train (*)
123. Brought an old fad back into style (*)
124. Eaten caviar (*)
125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need (*)
126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant
127. Published a book (*) (e-book)
128. Pieced a quilt
129. Lived in an historic place
130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage (*)
131. Asked for a raise (*)
132. Made a hole-in-one (if miniature golf counts) (*)
133. Gone deep sea fishing (*)
134. Gone roller skating (*)
135. Run a marathon
136. Learned to surf (*)
137. Invented something
138. Flown first class
139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite
140. Flown in a helicopter (*)
141. Visited Africa
142. Sang a solo (*)
143. Gone spelunking (*)
144. Learned how to take a compliment (*)
145. Written a love-story
146. Seen Michelangelo’s David
147. Had your portrait painted
148. Written a fan letter
149. Spent the night in something haunted
150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane
151. Ran away
152. Learned to juggle
153. Been a boss (*)
154. Sat on a jury
155. Lied about your weight (*)
156. Gone on a diet (*)
157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget
158. Written a poem (*)
159. Carried your lunch in a lunchbox (*)
160. Gotten food poisoning (*)
161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission (*)
162. Hiked the Grand Canyon
163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks (*)
164. Gone to the opera (*)
165. Gotten a letter from someone famous
166. Worn knickers (*)
167. Ridden in a limousine (*)
168. Attended the Olympics (does a medal ceremony count?) (*)
169. Can hula or waltz (*)
170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books
171. Been stuck in an elevator
172. Had a revelatory dream
173. Thought you might crash in an airplane
174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert
175. Saved someone’s life
176. Eaten raw whale
177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint
178. Laughed till your side hurt (*)
179. Straddled the equator
180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing
181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival
182. Sent a message in a bottle
183. Spent the night in a hostel
184. Been a cashier (at my mom's hair shop)
185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt (*)
186. Joined a union
187. Donated blood or plasma (*)
188. Built a camp fire (*)
189. Kept a blog (*)
190. Had hives
191. Worn custom made shoes or boots
192. Made a PowerPoint presentation (*)
193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course
194. Served at a soup kitchen
195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube
196. Know CPR (*)
197. Ridden in or owned a convertible (*)
198. Found a long lost friend (*)
199. Helped solve a crime (*)
200. Responded to a NJP newsletter

The Wedding Barbeque (the "Reception")

2008-07-03T16:05:00.012-06:00

So, after we finished taking pictures at the temple and got our grab bag of food--we headed to SLC. Home. Together as husband and wife for the first time. Kind of exciting. Mark carried me over the threshold. I'm glad he did--I've always looked forward to that.

We only had time to change out of our "picture" clothes and into our t-shirts.

These t-shirts are AWESOME! Mark's cousin, Brent, designed them for us. (He works for Sansegal, so you should support his art: http://www.sansegal.com/.)

My t-shirt says "Bride" and Mark's says "Groom." The little squiggly under "Bride" is a WHIP! Hahahah!!! And Mark's two O's are two balls connected with a chain. Heheheh... HE'S MINE!

Our siblings and parents were asked to wear corresponding t-shirts that say "Family." My family and I have the script font from our wedding announcements. Mark and his family have the block font. And, on the back of all of them was our initial insignia. Oh--and my three brothers had black aprons instead of the gold t-shirts.

We hurried over to the park and got there at about 3:45. When we arrived, nothing had been set up. It kind of freaked me out for a minute. Then I thought, "What am I going to freak out for? It will all work out." And--it did.

Balloons were blown up. Tables were covered. My friend, Jorie, made some really simple and great table decorations (LOVED them). The cake arrived. Pictures were arranged.

The food arrived at about 4:30. (I'm pretty disappointed with Costco regarding this issue--and I can explain if you need the details.) My brothers got right to the cooking.

We had hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad, chips, veggies, pop, popsicles, and cake.

Friends and family arrived right on time too. And--that was the best: the family and friends.

Mark had lots of family come that had previously said they would be unable to attend. I know Mark appreciated their love and support. So did I. In fact--Mark has mentioned a couple times how it turned into a little family reunion and how glad it made him.

Lots of my family and friends came too. If they only knew how much I appreciated each and every one of them who came. I remember too--so don't think I didn't notice. There were some people who didn't come that I expected, and I noticed.

We didn't have a line, because neither Mark nor I have ever wanted to stand in an awkward line. We know how much we dislike lines at receptions we go to--so we didn't have one. And it turned out great. Not only did we get to talk to the people we wanted, but our parents and families had the same experience. It was sweet!

The cake was AWESOME. Originally I didn't care. Then, I thought I better have one. I tried to get my friend to make one, but she never returned phone calls or emails. So, I started looking to buy one. But, my sister-in-law volunteered to make one. I told her I would love that. She made it the day after she got back from her belated-honeymoon. She made it at her sister's house. It was AWESOME. We served it as a dessert option--and it was sooooooo yummy!

Oh yah--and we didn't smash it in each other's faces. We decided that we didn't want to be sticky and such. We just wanted to be nice to each other. So--we were. Yah baby! You can think what you will--but both of us agreed to it, even without threats.

Honestly, I don't think I would have done ANYTHING different about the day. There were obviously glitches, but they had nothing to do with our preparation. Everything that day turned out so well, I was just sooooooooooo happy. I'm still happy when I think about it. And I get all grinny (I just made that word up) when I look at the pictures. I think everyone had almost as good a time as I did--and that was the intention.

Thank you--everyone--for coming to our barbeque! We love you!!!!

All of our BBQ pictures can be found here.

Actually--I just got a new CD today filled with pictures from one of my dear friends. The link to those pictures can be found here.

Recent News

2008-07-03T11:05:00.004-06:00

First, I just decided to check the Emery County Progress today. My English teacher from my senior year in high school is going to be the new principal at the high school. Crazy. Check out the link here.

Second, while I am a 1997 graduate of Emery High School, I have friends from the years before and after me. Just yesterday I stumbled upon the class of 1998's blog. I found it pretty interesting to check up on people I grew up with. Check out the link here.

Third, I'm kind of surprised at the lack of participation on my last post. Yes--boohoo for me. But, honestly...I thought it would be kind of fun to find out about things that you like about yourself. Any way...just saying.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY tomorrow!!!!!!

An Interesting Project

2008-06-30T09:29:00.005-06:00

Mark forwarded an email to me this morning that I found very intriguing. So, I'm going to share it with you here.

Hey everyone!

These days I seem to have too many projects but I wanted to get started on another on that will take awhile to collect all the info that I want, so I thought I would get started.

A few years ago I heard of this book that was put together where people mailed in an anonymous postcard with some secret they had. I have seen the book and most of it was negative either towards themselves or someone else. I liked the idea but did not like the content. I sometimes think that our society can be very negative and that we all have secrets which we mostly think are negative.

However, I feel we all secretly think good about ourselves but feel that we should not express what we like about ourselves to others because of what they may think or because we are taught not too, etc. So, I have a project that I want to put together about the good that we all have and are aware of. I would love if you could take the time to email me what it is you like about yourself. It could be a sentence, paragraph, whatever. Be as creative as you would like. You can reply by email or you can mail it too me if you want it to be anonymous.

Send to: yellowvwbus3@yahoo.com

or

S Winzeler
2702 W Shadyhollow Loop
Lehi, UT 84043

I hope to put them all together in some sort of book, blog or website. Please foward this email to all those you know so that I can gather a large collection of positive thought. I won't put anyones name to their submission unless they want it there. I will also try to get some sort of info. on the final project out to those who submit their positive thought when it is competed. Thanks for your help, it is much appreciated.

Not only am I interested to see the final project (whenever that may happen), but I would like to see what you would write to her. If you're feeling up to it--I'd love to have you share your thoughts here on our blog. I'll start with what I emailed her.

I try to live by the Golden Rule--it's something that is very important to me. Because of that, one of the things I like best about myself is--

I THINK I'M AN AWESOME FRIEND.

I'm the kind of friend I would want to have. And, I try to pass that along to other people. It makes my days happier, and probably healthier.

Things That Made Me Smile Yesterday

2008-06-25T09:27:00.006-06:00

1) Right before I left work yesterday, I checked my blog. I got a GREAT surprise! One of my friends from my childhood left a comment. I've wondered what happened to her--and now I know. I'm so happy! She has FOUR kids! FOUR!!!!

2) Mark gave me a dozen of my favorite flowers at dinner last night. He is the best! The best!!! I love Mark the most.

3) We watched America's Got Talent. Bad news: I think I am in love with another man. Had I not just got married--I would be stalking him right now: Joseph Hall. I bet he's Native. And he's got the body of...well...a young Elvis. *swoon*

One Month Anniversary

2008-06-24T09:09:00.014-06:00

Today is our one month anniversary. I have convinced Mark that he needs to take me to dinner tonight. We're going to the Cheesecake Factory (because I have a coupon for free cheesecake--I can email it to you if you want it, but you have to use it by this Thursday).

Mark just told me this has been the best month of his life. I'd have to agree. There hasn't been anyone that has been so concerned for my welfare, so eager to share and be part of my life, and so happy to be around me--and for me to feel the same way about him is exhilerating. We are by far from perfect, but we're working on it--and we're working on it together.

P.S. We promise we'll post about the barbeque and the open houses. We promise!

P.P.S. I know this has nothing to do with our anniversary--but the Crayola 64 pack is celebrating its 50th's anniversary this year. Seriously--it's so cool. I wonder if I can get Mark to spend an evening coloring with me....

P.P.P.S. "Oleaginious" means having the nature or qualities of oil and/or containing oil. (If you read the article on the 64 pack, you'll need to know that.)