Mewes Mumblings

The Voice of God

2010-04-04T12:09:00.002-05:00

Read Numbers 7:89 and then read this:

The question in my study this morning is "Has God ever spoken to you?" ABSOLUTELY!! Almost every day it seems He is saying SOMETHING to me. As I go forward with my business, He is always giving me advice - online especially as He leads me to others who have been successful or need some of His guidance. I hear His voice in everything that surrounds me and it is truly AMAZING! His insights into myself have shown how much I strive to please everyone else when in reality, I need only to please Him through my thoughts, words, and deeds. God has often used other people to guide me. Most recently, Mike was his avenue as the two of us look toward a very different future. God spoke to Mike and let him know we would be just fine. Mike shared that with me but I don't think I heard God's voice at that moment. As I look back, I do now. WOW! God has also spoken to me through dreams and visions. I have never really thought about them as God speaking to me but now, it makes perfect sense. Again I have to say WOW! God is trying hard to have a personal relationship with me and sometimes I really miss the mark. I hear Him speaking but I don't communicate back with Him. I often question. So, here is my new guide to building my relationship and determining exactly who is speaking to me: A word from God will 1) ALWAYS agree with the Bible, 2) be consistent with Christ's character, and 3) provide a sense that the message is from God. I am fixing my eyes on Jesus rather than my own wishes and desires. This will help me to hear the voice of God. My hope is to build my relationship with God and move to a place of faith, awe, peace, praise, and healing that no other can touch!

Want more? Read the following Bible verses and see how God speaks to you:

Hebrews 1:1-3

1 Chronicles 28:12, 19

John 14:26

1 John 2:27

Hebrews 4:12

Acts 21:10-11

Acts 10:9-20

John 1:14

Jeremiah 32:6-9

1 John 4:1-3

I am going to go out and enjoy this beautiful Easter day now. He is Risen!!

C'ya!

Pennies from Heaven

2010-04-01T08:41:00.003-05:00

Think about this the next time you pass a penny in the parking lot:

I found a penny today

Laying on the ground.

But it's not just a penny,

This little coin I've found.

Found pennies come from heaven,

that's what my Grandpa told me.

He said Angels toss them down.

Oh, how I loved that story.

He said when an Angel misses you,

They toss a penny down;

Sometimes just to cheer you up,

To make a smile out of your frown.

So, don't pass by that penny

When you're feeling blue.

It may be a penny from heaven

That an Angel's tossed to you.

C'ya!

Daniel's Gloves

2010-03-22T16:23:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine sent this story to me and I feel it is worthy of sharing! Enjoy!!

I sat, with two friends, in the picture window of a quaint restaurant just off the corner of the town-square. The food and the company were both especially good that day.

As we talked, my attention was drawn outside, across the street. There, walking into town, was a man who appeared to be carrying all his worldly goods on his back. He was carrying, a well-worn sign that read, 'I will work for food.' My heart sank.

I brought him to the attention of my friends and noticed that others around us had stopped eating to focus on him. Heads moved in a mixture of sadness and disbelief.

We continued with our meal, but his image lingered in my mind. We finished our meal and went our separate ways. I had errands to do and quickly set out to accomplish them. I glanced toward the town square, looking somewhat halfheartedly for the strange visitor. I was fearful, knowing that seeing him again would call some response.. I drove through town and saw nothing of him. I made some purchases at a store and got back in my car.

Deep within me, the Spirit of God kept speaking to me: 'Don't go back to the office until you've at least driven once more around the square.'

Then with some hesitancy, I headed back into town. As I turned the square's third corner, I saw him. He was standing on the steps of the store front church, going through his sack.

I stopped and looked; feeling both compelled to speak to him, yet wanting to drive on. The empty parking space on the corner seemed to be a sign from God: an invitation to park. I pulled in, got out and approached the town's newest visitor.

'Looking for the pastor?' I asked.

'Not really,' he replied, 'just resting.'

'Have you eaten today?'

'Oh, I ate something early this morning.'

'Would you like to have lunch with me?'

'Do you have some work I could do for you?'

'No work,' I replied 'I commute here to work from the city, but I would like to take you to lunch.'

'Sure,' he replied with a smile.

As he began to gather his things, I asked some surface questions. 'Where you headed?'

'St.. Louis'

'Where you from?'

'Oh, all over; mostly Florida...'

'How long you been walking?'

'Fourteen years,' came the reply.

I knew I had met someone unusual. We sat across from each other in the same restaurant I had left earlier. His face was weathered slightly beyond his 38 years. His eyes were dark yet clear, and he spoke with an eloquence and articulation that was startling. He removed his jacket to reveal a bright red T-shirt that said, 'Jesus is The Never Ending Story.'

Then Daniel's story began to unfold. He had seen rough times early in life. He'd made some wrong choices and reaped the consequences. Fourteen years earlier, while backpacking across the country, he had stopped on the beach in Daytona. He tried to hire on with some men who were putting up a large tent and some equipment. A concert, he thought.

He was hired, but the tent would not house a concert but revival services, and in those services he saw life more clearly. He gave his life over to God. 'Nothing's been the same since,' he said, 'I felt the Lord telling me to keep walking, and so I did, some 14 years now.'

'Ever think of stopping?' I asked.

'Oh, once in a while, when it seems to get the best of me But God has given me this calling. I give out Bibles That's what's in my sack. I work to buy food and Bibles, and I give them out when His Spirit leads.'

I sat amazed. My homeless friend was not homeless. He was on a mission and lived this way by choice. The question burned inside for a moment and then I asked: 'What's it like?'

'What?'

'To walk into a town carrying all your things on your back and to show your sign?'

'Oh, it was humiliating at first. People would stare and make comments. Once someone tossed a piece of half-eaten bread and made a gesture that certainly didn't make me feel welcome. But then it became humbling to realize that God was using me to touch lives and change people's concepts of other folks like me.'

My concept was changing, too. We finished our dessert and gathered his things. Just outside the door, he paused He turned to me and said, 'Come Ye blessed of my Father and inherit the kingdom I've prepared for you. For when I was hungry you gave me food, when I was thirsty you gave me drink, a stranger and you took me in.'

I felt as if we were on holy ground. 'Could you use another Bible?' I asked.

He said he preferred a certain translation. It traveled well and was not too heavy. It was also his personal favorite. 'I've read through it 14 times,' he said.

'I'm not sure we've got one of those, but let's stop by our church and see' I was able to find my new friend a Bible that would do well, and he seemed very grateful.

'Where are you headed from here?' I asked.

'Well, I found this little map on the back of this amusement park coupon.'

'Are you hoping to hire on there for awhile?'

'No, I just figure I should go there. I figure someone under that star right there needs a Bible, so that's where I'm going next.'

He smiled, and the warmth of his spirit radiated the sincerity of his mission. I drove him back to the town-square where we'd met two hours earlier, and as we drove, it started raining.. We parked and unloaded his things.

'Would you sign my autograph book?' he asked. 'I like to keep messages from folks I meet.'

I wrote in his little book that his commitment to his calling had touched my life. I encouraged him to stay strong. And I left him with a verse of scripture from Jeremiah, 'I know the plans I have for you, declared the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you; Plans to give you a future and a hope.'

'Thanks, man,' he said. 'I know we just met and we're really just strangers, but I love you.'

'I know,' I said, 'I love you, too.' 'The Lord is good!'

'Yes, He is. How long has it been since someone hugged you?' I asked.

'A long time,' he replied

And so on the busy street corner in the drizzling rain, my new friend and I embraced, and I felt deep inside that I had been changed.. He put his things on his back, smiled his winning smile and said, 'See you in the New Jerusalem.'

'I'll be there!' was my reply.

He began his journey again. He headed away with his sign dangling from his bedroll and pack of Bibles. He stopped, turned and said, 'When you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?'

'You bet,' I shouted back, 'God bless.'

'God bless.' And that was the last I saw of him.

Late that evening as I left my office, the wind blew strong. The cold front had settled hard upon the town. I bundled up and hurried to my car. As I sat back and reached for the emergency brake, I saw them; a pair of well-worn brown work gloves neatly laid over the length of the handle. I picked them up and thought of my friend and wondered if his hands would stay warm that night without them.

Then I remembered his words: 'If you see something that makes you think of me, will you pray for me?'

Today his gloves lie on my desk in my office. They help me to see the world and its people in a new way, and they help me remember those two hours with my unique friend and to pray for his ministry. 'See you in the New Jerusalem,' he said.

Yes, Daniel, I know I will.....

'I shall pass this way but once.. Therefore, any good that I can do or any kindness that I can show, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again.'

C'ya!

A funny thing happened on the way to...

2010-03-05T21:48:00.004-06:00

Yo! So check this out:

I'm driving home this evening on my normal route. I'm pretty use to driving the mountain road now and can drive a little more than the speed limit part of the time (not when anyone is around; especially the Douglas County Deputy Sheriff). About halfway home, I happen upon a line of cars moving along at a snails pace (so less than 20 mph). I notice in the line of cars that the second one in IS the Douglas County Deputy Sheriff. I think he must have gotten annoyed because he pulled over the slow-moving front car and let the rest of us pass. When I reached the 15% grade, I let the car in the back pass me. It is the only area of the drive that I go in 1st gear and usually don't go over 5 mph. In doing so though, I noticed that the car I let pass me had a familiar looking sticker in the back window. Not sure I was seeing what I thought I was seeing, I stuck right with the car as he wove through the valley. I had every intention of following him to his final destination as long as it didn't involve me taking the Grand Am through any 3-foot-high snow drifts or down a steep hill. Just before reaching where I would normally turn for my house, the driver decided he had had enough of me following and pulled over. "DANG IT!" I said to myself. Deciding that I was still going to 'follow' this guy, I kept going toward Deckers. He, however, didn't make it that far. At some point before reaching the store, he must have pulled off (or drove off into the river). It was then (based on the sticker I believe that I have seen in his window) that I realize what he is doing; he is caching! The sticker I thought I saw was indeed a travel bug. I pulled up next to him as he was walking toward a cache just outside of the Deckers' store. I rolled down my window and say "That was just wrong." He kind of looked at me funny so I proceed to tell him that I was following his bug. He started to laugh. He proceeded to tell me that he had intended on stopping at one of the caches that was between the turn and where we were parked but he was worried that the crazy driver behind him would run into him. We chatted for a while and it turns out he was heading to the Lost Valley Ranch just up the road for a Men's weekend retreat. It is always so great to meet other cachers; especially out on the trail. This one though, has to seriously top the cake when it comes to the story behind meeting another cacher.

Here is part of the sticker I saw:

I can't post the entire photos because then it would give away the number!

I am now wanting to go caching tomorrow...

C'ya!

Funniest email EVER!

2010-02-25T11:01:00.003-06:00

I got this email from my sister-in-law this morning and I would say it ranks right up there with one of the funniest emails EVER:

For the last company picnic, management had decided that, due to liability issues, we could have alcohol, but only one (1) drink per person.

I was fired for ordering the cups:

Thanks for the hearty laugh Jeri!!

C'ya!

20 Easy Ways to Be Happier

2010-02-23T11:48:00.003-06:00

Hi all!

So check out this article from Inside Tech with the 20 Easy Ways to Be Happier.

I like #11 so I want to share with you the photographs that I like to gaze at for my mid- morning/day moment of Zen:

Ah....now I am relaxed...

C'ya!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T18:57:00.005-06:00

Love to all!

So don't tell my husband, but I think this was the BEST Valentine's Day EVER (yeah - even tops the horse)!!

Last evening, I had rented a hotel room for us in Colorado Springs. When we arrived in the middle of the afternoon, while he parked the car, I ran in and set up his gifts:

A bear and a bottle of wine that I custom-labeled.

The label I created for it.

Chilling the wine in the sink.

It wouldn't be time for us to spend together if we didn't go to a pool hall!

We went to dinner at a German restaurant in The Springs. Best EVER!!

When we got back to the room, I was welcomed by a handmade card by my husband; fantastic!! Unfortunately, I crashed and burned at about 10:00 PM and that was how the night ended...sad, I know!

This morning we were up a little early and decided that we would go down and sit in the hot tub and enjoy the pool (since the night before the pool was crawling with hockey kids). After, we had a HUGE breakfast and then headed up the mountain. After stopping for Starbucks and gas, we were heading home when Mike turned off the road. That was it; we were going 4-wheeling!

We saw elk...

We saw mule deer...

We crossed the creek over and over again!

It was a great time! We enjoyed a nice dinner at home this evening and now we are going to find a 'chick flick' to watch!

Love you all but my husband I love the most!!

C'ya!

Triangle of Life

2010-02-11T09:06:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine emailed this to me and I thought it was interesting. Being from the Midwest, this is definitely not something we practice but we hear all the time that you should go to a doorway. I guess that is not true. Read on:

EXTRACT FROM DOUG COPP'S ARTICLE ON THE 'TRIANGLE OF LIFE'

My name is Doug Copp. I am the Rescue Chief and Disaster Manager of the American Rescue Team International (ARTI), the world's most experienced rescue team. The information in this article will save lives in an earthquake.

I have crawled inside 875 collapsed buildings, worked with rescue teams from 60 countries, founded rescue teams in several countries, and I am a member of many rescue teams from many countries.

I was the United Nations expert in Disaster Mitigation for two years. I have worked at every major disaster in the world sinc e 1985, except for simultaneous disasters.

The first building I ever crawled inside of was a school in Mexico City during the 1985 earthquake. Every child was under its desk. Every child was crushed to the thickness of their bones. They could have survived by lying down next to their desks in the aisles. It was obscene, unnecessary and I wondered why the children were not in the aisles. I didn't at the time know that the children were told to hide under something. I am amazed that even today schools are still using the "Duck and Cover" instructions- telling the children to squat under their desks with their heads bowed and covered with their hands. This was the technique used in the Mexico City school.

Simply stated, when buildings collapse, the weight of the ceilings falling upon the objects or furniture inside crushes these objects, leaving a space or void next to them. This space is what I call the 'triangle of life'. The larger the object, the stronger, the less it will compact. The less the object compacts, the larger the void, the greater the probability that the person who is using this void for safety will not be injured. The next time you watch collapsed buildings, on television, count the 'triangles' you see formed. They are everywhere. It is the most common shape, you will see, in a collapsed building.

TIPS FOR EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

1) Almost everyone who simply 'ducks and covers' when buildings collapse ARE CRUSHED TO DEATH. People who get under objects, like desks or cars, are crushed.

2) Cats, dogs and babies often naturally curl up in the fetal position. You should too in an earthquake. It is a natural safety/survival instinct. That position helps you survive in a smaller void. Get next to an object, next to a sofa, next to a large bulky object that will compress slightly but leave a void next to it.

3) Wooden buildings are the safest type of construction to be in during an earthquake. Wood is flexib le and moves with the force of the earthquake. If the wooden building does collapse, large survival voids are created.. Also, the wooden building has less concentrated, crushing weight. Brick buildings will break into individual bricks. Bricks will cause many injuries but less squashed bodies than concrete slabs. Concrete slab buildings are the most dangerous during an earthquake.

4) If you are in bed during the night and an earthquake occurs, simply roll off the bed. A safe void will exist around the bed. Hotels can achieve a much greater survival rate in earthquakes, simply by posting a sign on the back of the door of every room telling occupants to lie down on the floor, next to the bottom of the bed during an earthquake.

5) If an earthquake happens and you cannot easily escape by getting out the door or window, then lie down and curl up in the fetal position next to a sofa, or large chair.

6) Almost everyone who gets under a doorway when buildings collapse i s kill ed. How? If you stand under a doorway and the doorjamb falls forward or backward you will be crushed by the ceiling above. If the door jam falls sideways you will be cut in half by the doorway. In either case, you will be killed!

7) Never go to the stairs. The stairs have a different 'moment of frequency (they swing separately from the main part of the building). The stairs and remainder of the building continuously bump into each other until structural failure of the stairs takes place. The people who get on stairs before they fail are chopped up by the stair treads ? horribly mutilated. Even if the building doesn't collapse, stay away from the stairs. The stairs are a likely part of the building to be damaged. Even if the stairs are not collapsed by the earthquake, they may collapse later when overloaded by fleeing people. They should always be checked for safety, even when the rest of the building is not damaged.

8) Get Near the Outer Walls Of Buildings Or Outside Of Them If Possible - It is much better to be near the outside of the building rather than the interior. The farther inside you are from the outside perimeter of the building the greater the probability that your escape route will be blocked.

9) People inside of their vehicles are crushed when the road above falls in an earthquake and crushes their vehicles; which is exactly what happened with the slabs between the decks of the Nimitz Freeway. The victims of the San Francisco earthquake all stayed inside of their vehicles. They were all killed. They could have easily survived by getting out and lying in the fetal position next to their vehicles. Everyone killed would have survived if they had been able to get out of their cars and sit or lie next to them. All the crushed cars had voids 3 feet high next to them, except for the cars that had columns fall directly across them.

10) I discovered, while crawling inside of collapsed newspaper offices and other offi ces wi th a lot of paper, that paper does not compact. Large voids are found surrounding stacks of paper.

In 1996 we made a film, which proved my survival methodology to be correct. The Turkish Federal Government, City of Istanbul , University of Istanbul Case Productions and ARTI cooperated to film this practical, scientific test. We collapsed a school and a home with 20 mannequins inside.. Ten mannequins did 'duck and cover,' and ten mannequins I used in my 'triangle of life' survival method. After the simulated earthquake collapse we crawled through the rubble and entered the building to film and document the results.

The film, in which I practiced my survival techniques under directly observable, scientific conditions, relevant to building collapse, showed there would have been zero percent survival for those doing duck and cover.

There would likely have been 100 percent survivability for people using my method of the 'triangle of life.' This film has been seen by millions of viewers on television inTurkey and the rest of Europe, and it was seen in the USA , Canada and Latin America on the TV program Real TV.

Spread the word and save someone's life... The entire world is experiencing natural calamities so be prepared!

The Colorado Trail

2010-02-06T22:55:00.004-06:00

I woke up this morning and decided that Mike and I had not been out Geocaching for quite some time and that today would be a great day to head down the road in the valley to do just that. We decided we would head to the Colorado Trail and hike a small portion of the trail and pick up the caches along the way. The photos will tell the story:

After our second cache, Mike suddenly stops and points to the eagle in the top of the tree. He stayed there just long enough for Mike to get out of the Exterra for this photo.

While at one of the caches sites, we happened upon a frozen stream. Well, at least the surface was frozen; under, you could hear the gurgle of the creek as it continued to move along underneath. Not sure if you can hear it in this video or not:

The water is running down in between two ice 'walls'.

The elevation gain was really not that much but it sure seemed like it as we hiked up and up and up the series of switchbacks. If you look, you should be able to see the road way down below!

I have names this mountain you see here, "Kitty Ears Mountain". Need I say more?

We were hiking to an old quartz quarry. The area was used at one time as a dumping ground for all sorts of items (including this old mattress frame).

Mike was climbing around on the quartz. He made it up to the top somehow.

There was an old truck in the quarry and Sedona was standing above while I was below taking pictures.

The door handle on the truck.

A large quartz boulder in front of the crusher.

Mike at the top...

"Seriously Mom - can we go?"

"I'm very tired"

We climbed to the summit of Pt. Cloud - this marker was at the top.

A nice leaf piece...

You can see the road in the background.

We left when it started to get dark and headed for home. When we arrived, I sat down to upload the photos and realized the camera was missing. The last I remember is it being on the back of the Exterra. I got in the car and drove back to the trailhead. Luckily, I found the camera just down the road and unharmed. If I hadn't found it, there would be NO photos!! I better be careful...

C'ya!

Aging...

2010-02-05T07:53:00.002-06:00

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love ... I will.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set.

They, too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.

So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.
As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it)!!

C'ya!

Can I Borrow a Few Bucks?

2010-02-03T07:30:00.002-06:00

Living up in the mountains, we have one bill that just kills me when I see it; the propane bill. I opened it up yesterday and I just about died when I saw the total is just over $300. That's INSANE! Electric heaters HAVE to be less expensive than the propane, right? I mean, in retrospect, if you average the amount out over the course of the year (since the summer bills are under $20), then it's only like $100 a month. But the sticker shock; wow!!

I have to go to work now so I can afford to pay it...

C'ya!

Advertising is a Full Time Job

2010-02-02T07:44:00.003-06:00

Wow! I had no idea what exactly is involved in starting up a business of your very own! I knew that it would take time and I probably wouldn't realize a big profit right away (if ever). But to get the word out is certainly a big task. I thought about just moving forward with my Super Bowl ad because the $3 million 30 second spot would probably drive some people to my Etsy Store. However, I'm afraid I just spent my last $3 million dollars...

So basically what I'm saying is please feel free to share the word with everyone you know and drive them to my Etsy store for a look. I'm going to continue to try and get the word out but I also have to be able to create the product or the store really isn't going to do me much good!

Well, I have to get to my real job for today.

C'ya!

New Blog for the Artistic Types

2010-01-31T14:19:00.002-06:00

I am working on creating a new blog for the biz:

http://mewesmountainartsandcrafts.blogspot.com/

Not much to it right now but working on changing that. Wish me luck in keeping both updated :o)

I would like to go out for a hike but I need to get Mike moving...

C'ya!

I Am A Free Horse - Really!

2010-01-30T11:32:00.004-06:00

I just posted the following on Craigslist to find a new home for Lady:

Hello! My name is Royal Dublin; you can call me Lady for short. I currently live in Cameron, Missouri and would love to stay close to this area. However, I am willing to move if you come pick me up. My parents moved out of state and had to rent a house so they cannot keep me, besides I like being around other horses and they are no where near others. I'm very easy to keep (just give me grass or hay and I'm good) and I shed out to be a beautiful black quarter-horse. Before moving to Cameron, I spent my days training little ones to ride. I also love being out on the trail and very little freaks me out (other than rattle snakes and rabid dogs). I don't mind the saddle and bit and a good brush after a hard ride is one of my favorites!! You may think that my 26-year-old stature is a bit out-dated, but I assure you, I have plenty of life left in these old bones!

If you feel you can handle my low-maintenance nature, then please contact my owner to arrange a time to meet me. I do ask that you give me 24 hours to prepare as I want to look my best when you arrive.

Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by my listing to check on me. I can't wait to find a new home and face new adventures!

If you know of anyone and can help her find a new home, please let me know!!

C'ya!

To All My Friends!!

2010-01-29T10:05:00.000-06:00

1. When you are sad,

I will jump on the person

who made you sad

like a spider monkey

jacked up on Mountain Dew!!!

2. When you are blue,

I will try to dislodge

whatever is choking you.

3. When you smile,

I will know you are

plotting something

that I must be involved in.

4. When you're scared,

we will high tail it out of here.

5. When you are worried,

I will tell you horrible stories about how much worse

it could be until you

quit whining, ya big baby!!!!

6. When you are confused,

I will use little words.

7. When you are sick,

Stay away from me

until you are well again.

I don't want whatever you have....

8. When you fall,

I'll pick you up

and dust you off--

After I laugh my rear off!!

9. This is my oath....

I pledge it to the end.

'Why?' you may ask;

-- because you are my FRIEND!

Things to do before you quit your job: The office bucket list

2010-01-26T11:20:00.001-06:00

This is really funny! If you are in the hunt for a new job and manage to actually find one, you really should do this and let me know how it goes!!

You just landed a new job and gave your two weeks notice to your current employer -- welcome to the lame duck club. The finest moments in every career occur between the moment you accept a new job and start a new job. A consequence-free environment where you can do what you want when you want. So what should you do before you quit your job? Here are 13 ideas for your workplace bucket list:

1. Slowly transition the dress code
Over the course of 2 weeks, slowly transition from wearing a dress shirt, dress pants and tie to a point where on the last day, you are wearing jogging shorts (super short) with a wife beater. But, the transition is so slow that people don't really notice.

2. Tuxedo Dude
On the last day, show up in a tuxedo and top hat. Get to work early and greet everyone at the door. Tell them how beautiful they look today. If you haven't been escorted out of the office, start interrupting meetings taking place in conference rooms. Ask them if they've seen a woman in a bridal gown running through the hallways crying. Keep repeating this process until everyone at the office is aware of some crazy dude with a tuxedo on.

3. Tie Guy
Buy 10 of the weirdest ties money can buy at Ralph Marlin. While wearing the ties, act incredibly professional but make sure to flaunt your ties. If people comment on your quirky ties, defend yourself by letting them know they look like f#%king idiots as well.

4. Leave random notes
On your last day, place random notes around the office in public areas that humiliate the people you despise. Make sure to place them in areas that won't be seen until after you are gone. For instance, if you have a colleague that takes notes in a notebook, place a post-it note 15 pages past their current page that reads, "Buy a toothbrush. Your breath smells like a coffee pot that someone shat in."

5. Call in sick on your last day of work
What's the worst that could happen?

6. Let your boss know who's the boss
Schedule a meeting with your boss that begins 1 hour before you depart on your last day. Have someone from your work posse place a note on the table just before the meeting starts that reads "I proactively scheduled this meeting so you wouldn't be concerned if I left really early on my last day. As you may have figured out by now, I actually left 4 hours ago. Better luck next time."

7. Set an out of office message on your last day
Based on the current speed at which your IT department works, it's likely that your email isn't going to turn off for at least 4 weeks. Keep things in limbo by letting emailers know that you're out of the office but you will be returning in one week to respond to their emails.

8. Print the Bristol Stool Chart and glue it to every bathroom stall
Print off the Bristol Stool Chart (available here) from Wikipedia and heavily glue it to the inside of every bathroom stall in your office. Your work posse will thank you later. Make sure to leave a comment that makes note of how the company is much like Type 1 in the Bristol Scale.

9. Start scheduling recurring meetings
Before word of your departure starts to spread through the office, start scheduling weekly recurring meetings that extend out through the end of the year. The earlier or later in the day, the better.

10. Time delayed emails
Confuse everyone at the office by sending out time delayed emails that are sent long after you've left the company. In those emails, ask vague questions like "Hey there - Did all of you receive that attachment? I know several of you have been complaining that I didn't transition my work very well, but that attachment I just sent should have all of the information you're looking for. I'm back at work, so just stop by my cubicle if you have any questions."

11. Plant evidence
Inconspicuously take small personal items from the desks of people you don't particularly care for and on your last day plant them in the work areas and desks of the colleagues you truly despise.

12. Do nothing
This may not differ from what you've done for years, but doing nothing can be quite rewarding. You'll be amazed by how much it doesn't matter.

13. Empty the Health Flex Spending Account
Many people are unaware of this, but the Health Flex Spending Account (FSA) is one of the few ways you can seriously bend over your employer before you leave. If you have money in your FSA, empty the account by buying anything that is FSA-eligible (OTC drugs, condoms at Wal-Mart, etc). You may have 5k in your FSA, but you pay that 5k stretched out over 12 months as it is automatically deducted from your paycheck. If it's early in the year, you've probably only paid in less than 20% of that total. You can stock a closet full of medical supplies (or a boob job if you're of the female persuasion) at almost no cost.

I however, want to keep mine so back to it I go...

C'ya!

I'm Going to Minnesota!!

2010-01-22T10:29:00.001-06:00

I wish you all could join me there!! I can't wait to see some aunts, uncles, cousins, and anyone else that I know that I haven't seen for a while!

Until tonight...

C'ya!

Are you girly??

2010-01-20T07:30:00.003-06:00

You need to check out the following site then and sign up for their contest:

It will take you to the girly site:

I really like C14 myself but check them out and pick your own favorite!

C'ya!

As if Reading Wasn't Hard Enough...

2010-01-17T21:09:00.001-06:00

From a Facebook Wall Post:

Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the ......wrod as a wlohe. Olny 55% of plepoe can raed tihs!

Good thing I could read it, huh?!?

C'ya!!

The Burnt Biscuit

2010-01-14T08:49:00.001-06:00

By: Leisa Piper

When I was a kid, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work.

On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed! Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that biscuit and eat every bite!

When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."

Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a little burnt biscuit never hurt anyone!"

Life is full of imperfect things.....and imperfect people. I'm not the best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like everyone else. But what I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each others faults - and choosing to celebrate each others differences - is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting relationship.

And that's my prayer for you today. That you will learn to take the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of your life and lay them at the feet of God. Because in the end, He's the only One who will be able to give you a relationship where a burnt biscuit isn't a deal-breaker!

We could extend this to any relationship. In fact, understanding is the base of any relationship, be it a husband-wife or parent-child or siblings or friendship!

"Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket - keep it in your own."

God Bless You..... Now, and Always....

So Please pass me a biscuit, and yes, the burnt one will do just fine.!.!.!.! And PLEASE pass this along to someone who has enriched your life... I just did!

Where NFL Coaches go to Retire...

2010-01-06T13:06:00.002-06:00

DENVER, Colo. - Former Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan was introduced as the new head coach of the Washington Redskins at a news conference Wednesday afternoon.

The exact terms of the agreement were not released. However it's believed to be a five-year contract worth approximately $7 million a year.

The Broncos fired Shanahan following the 2008 season in which the team failed to make the playoffs for the third straight year. He had three years remaining on his deal at the time of his firing.

According to the Denver Post, the Broncos will pay Shanahan, 57, approximately $3.5 million in 2010 and 2011.

The Washington Redskins dismissed Jim Zorn as head coach a day after the team finished the season with a 4-12 record.

Shanahan has a 154-103 career head coaching record with two Super Bowl victories.

One name - Marty Schottenheimer...

C'ya!

HOLIDAY EATING TIPS

2009-12-14T09:10:00.000-06:00

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Holiday spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare.. You cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Holiday party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.

8. Same for pies... Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.

10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by:

"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, chocolate and wine in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

Have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Go Big Red!

2009-11-26T21:06:00.000-06:00

Lots on the line for NU and CU...no, really

Beware of the '12 Scams of Christmas' - ABC News

2009-11-23T07:16:00.000-06:00

As we prepare to begin the Christmas shopping season, I thought this was a good time to share this article from ABC News:

Beware of the '12 Scams of Christmas' - ABC News

Have a Happy & Safe Black Friday :o)

C'ya!

Jennifer

Recession Intensifies GenX Discontent at Work

2009-11-18T10:37:00.000-06:00

By MARTHA IRVINE, AP National Writer Martha Irvine, Ap National Writer – Sun Nov 15, 1:40 pm ET

CHICAGO – They're antsy and edgy, tired of waiting for promotion opportunities at work as their elders put off retirement. A good number of them are just waiting for the economy to pick up so they can hop to the next job, find something more fulfilling and get what they think they deserve. Oh, and they want work-life balance, too.

Sounds like Gen Y, the so-called "entitlement generation," right?

Not necessarily, say people who track the generations. In these hard times, they're also hearing strong rumblings of discontent from Generation X. They're the 32- to 44-year-olds who are wedged between baby boomers and their children, often feeling like forgotten middle siblings — and increasingly restless at work as a result.

"All of a sudden, we've gone from being the young upstarts to being the curmudgeons," says Bruce Tulgan, a generational consultant who's written books about various age groups, including his fellow Gen Xers.

This isn't the first time Gen Xers have faced tough times. They came of age during a recession and survived the dot-com bust of 2000. In recent years, though, more members of the generation — stereotyped early on as jaded individualists — had families or began settling down in other ways. It was time, they thought, to enjoy the rewards of paying some dues.

"We were starting to buy into the system, at least to some extent," Tulgan says, "and then we got the rug pulled out from under us."

Now, in this latest recession, nearly two-thirds of baby boomer workers, ages 50 to 61, say they might have to push back their retirement, according to a recent survey from Pew Research.

Meanwhile, on the other end of the age spectrum are Gen Yers, who are often cheaper to hire and heralded for their coveted high-tech knowledge, even though many Gen Xers consider themselves just as technologically savvy.

"It's so annoying," says Lisa Chamberlain, another Gen Xer who wrote the book "Slackonomics: Generation X in the Age of Creative Destruction." "First, it was always the baby boomers overshadowing everything. Then there was this brief period in the mid-'90s where Gen X was cool.

"Now it's, 'What are the new kids doing?' It's like 'Yo, hello, the Google guys are Gen Xers.'"

They can sound a little whiny. But there's also some evidence that Gen Xers really are being taken for granted at work.

One survey done this year for Deloitte Consulting LLP, for instance, found that nearly two-thirds of executives at large companies were most concerned about losing Gen Y employees, while less than half of them had similar concerns about losing Gen Xers.

The assumption is often that Gen Yers are the least loyal and most mobile, says Robin Erickson, a manager with Deloitte's human capital division.

However, she points out that a companion survey of employees found that only about 37 percent of Gen Xers said they planned to stay in their current jobs after the recession ends, compared with 44 percent of Gen Yers, 50 percent of baby boomers and 52 percent of senior citizen workers who said the same.

Everyone surveyed worried about job security. Gen X and Gen Y were most likely to complain about pay. But a "lack of career progress," was by far the biggest gripe from Gen Xers, with 40 percent giving that as a reason for their restlessness, compared with 30 percent of Gen Yers, 20 percent of baby boomers and 14 percent of senior workers.

Gen Yers, meanwhile, were more likely than the other generations to cite "lack of challenges in the job" as a reason they would leave, while baby boomers more often chose "poor employee treatment during the downturn" and a "lack of trust in leadership."

The Deloitte study warns of a "resume' tsunami" once economic recovery begins, especially among Gen Xers, and notes that many executives were largely unaware of employee complaints unrelated to money.

Such findings don't surprise Rich Yudhishthu, a 37-year-old Gen Xer who's a business development consultant from Minneapolis.

"The lack of promotional opportunities has pretty much killed job loyalty within a generation," he says.

Liza Potts, a 35-year-old professor at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., agrees, but also notes that the disillusionment took hold for many of her peers as far back as childhood.

"Many of my friends had hoped to have jobs like their parents — places they would stay forever that would take care of them like they did their parents. But then we saw that start to crumble for our folks," she says, recalling friends whose fathers and mothers got laid off from companies such as IBM or had to relocate.

Now worried about their own foreclosures, debt and unemployment, her generation is left to do the soul-searching their parents did.

"Is there still time to become something different? Must we just accept where we are? Is there time to innovate elsewhere?" asks Potts who left her own career in the software and Internet industry for a life in academia. It's meant less money, she says, but also more freedom to choose her work hours and projects.

In Chicago, 40-year-old real estate agent Adon Navarette has taken on extra jobs to make it, from consultant for an energy supply company to starting his own health and wellness business. He's heard his peers sniping about other generations, but also thinks their experience with other rough economic patches makes them resilient, too.

It's a pivotal moment, he says.

"What's going to define me as a Gen Xer is how I come out of this. What's going to define me is, 'What have I done to allow myself to take advantage of the market when the market turns around?'" he says.

Sometimes, it means working for less money.

Jon Anne Willow, co-publisher of ThirdCoastDigest.com, an online arts and culture site in Milwaukee, is among employers who've recently been able to hire more experienced candidates for jobs traditionally filled by 20somethings.

They're hungry to work, she says. And as she sees it, that gives her fellow Gen Xers and the baby boomers she's hired a distinct advantage over a lot of the Gen Yers she's come across.

"When the dust settles, they'll be exactly as they were before and we'll just have to sift through them and take the ones that actually get it and hope the rest find employment in fast food," she quips.

Spoken like a truly jaded Gen Xer.

Jesus is the Reason...

2009-11-13T19:57:00.002-06:00

Twas the month before Christmas when all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying nor taking a stand.

See the PC Police had taken away, the reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing, about Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

“December 25th is just a 'Holiday'.”

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen

On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton!

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS, not Happy Holiday.

Please, all Christians join together and

wish everyone you meet

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Christ is The Reason for the Christ-mas Season!

“He who denies me I will deny before my father.” Matthew 10:33

How cute is this:

2009-10-04T09:22:00.001-05:00

My brother posted this story on his blog and I seriously think it is the cutest thing to date my niece has said:

Cutest little story...so I think.

Ella and I were driving across town after daycare to go home and here is our conversation:

Ella: Daddy McDonald's has a big W on there.
Daddy: No that is a big M for the golden arches.
Ella: Hmmmm
Ella: Daddy, my nose has an M as well
Daddy: It does?
Ella: Yep.

I turn around to see and she is tracing the top of her nostrils if you notice they are in the shape of an M. Some are larger some are smaller, some are rounder some are pointier, but just the same Ella made the association.

OMG! LOVE HER!!

Why Slow Weight Loss Wins

2009-09-13T09:00:00.002-05:00

I found this interesting article in regards to losing weight and why "slower is better":

Article By: Melissa Sperl

"We live in a quick-fix society," says Debra Mandel, PhD, a Los Angeles psychologist who specializes in eating disorders. "When we want something, we want it right away."

Worse, we constantly see advertisements that convince us that we can lose inches by tomorrow, and be slimmer by next week. It seems like there's no harm in wanting to lose weight by yesterday. After all, it is possible. Isn't it?

Not at all, insists Mandel. Because when it comes down to it, fast weight loss can't last, because it usually means adapting to very difficult eating habits and an impossible-to-live-with lifestyle.Quick fix, fast failure

"[With quick-fix diets], our metabolism slows down, and eventually we're eating fewer and fewer calories but not losing weight," says Mandel. "This leads to anxiety, which prompts us to eat even fewer calories to try to lose. The body rebels against that even more."

So it's a vicious cycle. Because if you don't get enough nutrients — which is a major risk when you're going for a quick fix — your brain, and then your body, will, well, insist that you eat. To your body, it's nothing more than survival. But to you, it will feel like you're giving in and losing control. Then you'll feel like a failure, which might very well send you to the fridge.

It's a never-ending yo-yo cycle of weight gain, then loss, then gain again. Go for slow and steady weight loss (a healthy rate is two pounds per week or less), and not only will you be doing a service to your body, you'll also be more likely to keep that weight off for good. Isn't that better than rebounding?

Why slow weight loss lasts
"I'm glad my weight loss was slow for me because I feel like I really have made lifestyle changes," says Lyn, a meetings member. "I just keep at it. I continue to see slow progress but overall a great deal of success. Slowly but surely the weight comes off."

It's that kind of "through thick and thin" attitude that will take people from thick to thin for good, says Mandel. Losing weight slowly isn't just healthier, she says, it's a better investment. Not only are you dropping pounds, you're working on building habits that you'll be able to maintain. And those habits will help you maintain the weight you lost, so you can stay at your goal weight for good.

"Plus, you have more energy to live life in the present, because you're not starving and focusing on food," says Mandel. "You're creating a healthy relationship with food." That's the key to lifelong success.

Maintain a positive attitude
All that said, Cindy, a subscriber to Weight Watchers Online, isn't exactly glad she loses weight slowly. "'Thankful' might be a better word for it," she says. "At least I'm losing and not gaining."

Cindy has also held on during slow losses by maintaining a positive attitude: "I know this plan is something I can stick with for the rest of my life. It's definitely not a 'diet' that I'll go off for a long period of time. It's a lifetime commitment."

This is one of those things that is tough but I will keep pushing through. Luckily, when I get hungry - I find food and eat it. The key is making the right choices and keeping the right foods around!

C'ya!

Time again for POOCHES IN PINK!!

2009-08-30T09:58:00.003-05:00

<----------------------------- NOTICE THE CHANGES --------------------------

I'm not posting again until I reach the goal of $500 so help us out!!

Hi All!

As the world’s leading breast cancer organization, Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is committed to ending breast cancer forever. Once again this year on September 12h, Sedona and I will join thousands of others playing a part in the annual Komen Colorado Springs Race for the Cure Pooches in Pink ®. By making a donation on my behalf, you are supporting local breast cancer screening, treatment, education and outreach along with international research that will lead us to a world without breast cancer.

It is likely you know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer – perhaps you or your spouse, a relative, coworker, neighbor or friend – someone in your life’s circle who has heard the words, “You have breast cancer.”

A diagnosis of breast cancer affects more than just the patient. When someone we love is diagnosed, we all are affected. Families work doubly hard to keep homes running smoothly while the patient travels the road of breast cancer treatment. Businesses struggle, not only to support their coworker, but also to fill gaps in productivity.

You see, breast cancer doesn’t care – so we have to care!

My goal is to raise ($500) this year. Please help me reach that goal with your financial support. Online donations are simple, and the site is secure. Please go to my fundraising page and make a tax-deductible donation online at http://race.komencs.org/goto/kcwoofpack.

If you prefer, mail your donation today to Komen Colorado Springs Affiliate; PO Box 9670; Colorado Springs, CO 80932-0670. Please make your check payable to: Susan G. Komen for the Cure and add my name in the memo section.

The deadline to have my donations collected is by September 10.

Thank you in advance for your support. Sedona and I walk in memory of Jeri and in celebration of Julie and Lori. If you would like me to add a name to the list, please let me know and I will be happy to add them! Please call me if you have any questions about the Komen Race for the Cure®. I can be reached at (jsmewes@gmail.com or 303.647.2254).

Sincerely,

Jennifer & Sedona

P.S. I would ask you to consider making a minimum investment of $15 towards the fight for a world without breast cancer.

Craig's List - Funniest Listing to the Chiefs Fan

2009-08-29T08:38:00.002-05:00

I was watching the news this morning before Mike and I head to The Springs for a bike excursion. One of the stories was about a Craig's list listing. You can see the entire listing with photos here:

2009 "Cantankerous Edition" Brandon Marshall - $1 (Dove Valley)

For sale: One slightly used, partially dinged up, occasionally unreliable, extremely agitated, currently insubordinate Brandon Marshall receiver! I really don't want to sell my Brandon Marshall as there were some good times with Brandon Marshall, but for the posterity of the entire fleet, it is time to part ways with Brandon Marshall. I purchased this Brandon Marshall in 2006, and it was really a good "bang for your buck" situation at the time. This is your chance to get in on this Brandon Marshall before it is too late and on the free market. Trust me, I could easily sell Brandon Marshall at a police auction. Some details about your future Brandon Marshall: Brandon Marshall is known for the ability to dodge other objects, except of course stray fast food bags. Brandon Marshall is also an underrated blocker, particularly at blocking getaway taxicabs. You will need a lot of extra space to house this Brandon Marshall as it comes with a lot of extra baggage. This Brandon Marshall also comes with excellent representation and is able to maneuver out of a tight spot. Brandon Marshall is a well-oiled machine and a work of art if I may say. So please do not put the wrong fuel in Brandon Marshall. Brandon Marshall frequently runs on the wrong fluids and it has been a problem from time to time. Also, Brandon Marshall's sightline may have been affected by the wearing of sunglasses indoors. At night.

Interesting trades will be considered for Brandon Marshall, especially if you are willing to part with a head coach not born in the 80's. However at this point, a cash for clunkers deal could probably be worked out. If interested in this Brandon Marshall, please call 303) 270-9718, email dmckee1041@aol.com, or even text 47195 to leave a comment about this particular model of Brandon Marshall. Happy shopping and caveat emptor!

If you are considering purchase Kansas City, DON'T! It sounds like such a great deal but he is only bringing some bad press. Send him to play somewhere with Michael Vick and Brett Favre...seriously!

GO CHIEFS!!

C'ya!

Family Gathering Fun

2009-08-02T11:09:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, Mike and I drove to the North to visit Mike's cousin Dirk. It was Glendon's (Dirk's son) birthday party. The theme was a pirate party and it seems that everyone had a great time! The party was complete with balloons, streamers, pirate hats, pirate swords, a piñata, and a scavenger hunt. The first video is the beginning of the scavenger hunt where the group gets to hear a note left and clues left for them to begin:

The next video is when one of the clue notes was found and one of the little boys was trying to read it:

The next video is after the piñata had spilled out all of the goods:

Finally, the pirate cake and a Happy Birthday song:

I believe everyone had a fun time! Happy Birthday to Glendon - until next year...

C'ya!

African thunderstorm

2009-07-31T22:30:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine sent me this video. I have to agree that I think this is almost better than the original!

Check it out!

African thunderstorm

Feeding Frenzy!

2009-07-26T19:40:00.005-05:00

In Missouri, we were happy to have one! I could fill the feeder once a week and hope that one would feed off of it. Here in Colorado, I can hardly keep up!

They don't care who is in the way either!

I am NOT complaining! I simply have to keep a steady supply of sugar and life is good!!

Keep This Between You and Me

2009-07-23T20:55:00.004-05:00

Invesco Field at Mile High - Home of the Denver "Donkeys"; I mean Denver Broncos. I work for one of the coolest places in the world! We attended a team building event at the local Denver NFL football stadium. Seriously, how cool is that??

Now, I am still a Kansas City Chiefs fan and that will never change. However, I will admit that being able to tour another NFL stadium was pretty cool. I took several photos with my iPhone so they may be just a little blurry:

This is inside one of the many "keg fridges". Man, they make some serious money off of all of these drunks!

This is the stall for the bronco that runs across the field for every touchdown. The silly thing is air conditioned/heated.

Shanna doing her trophy pose!

The 'Broncos' team preparing for the events.

The press box.

The view from the Champion's Club where former players watch every game.

The view looking up on the outside of the stadium.

A replica of the fountain out front of the stadium.

So, just keep this between you and me. I had fun at Invesco today. I passed, punted, and caught a football on the field. How cool is that???

A Raging River Runs Through It

2009-07-22T22:43:00.009-05:00

Early evening and I am working to finish up the dinner dishes. Looking out the back window of the house, the sky begins to turn dark. Flashes of light followed by immediate rumbling tells me that the storm is very near. We stand outside in the calm before the storm watching the clouds churn until the droplets of water overtake us. We race inside and watch from through the screens. Suddenly, the sky opens up and drops Mother Nature's fury on our small village in the valley. The time and the rain seem endless. The view of the neighborhood is blocked by sheets of torrential rain. Small pellets of hail pound us from all angles until the noise begins to drive me insane. The lights flicker several times until finally going out; leaving us in total darkness save the lightning flashes. Flashlights become our beacon in the night. The dripping from various locations in our ceiling, is definitely keeping our attention focused directly on the storm and nothing else. Buckets, bowls, and towels are strategically placed to keep water from damaging our personal belongings. After an endless hour (maybe more), the storm passes and we are left with only the sound of our small stream raging in the night. The waters have overflowed their banks and are lapping at the base of the hill on either side. Full size trees are rolling through the water; tumbling until an obstacle holds them in place. Bridges are disappearing under the fast flowing current. The road is covered in sand, rocks, and boulders making passage difficult. We venture out into the night to survey the damage; forgetting the camera on the shelves. The road is blocked to the South; police lights flashing to warn us to turn around. The road is damaged but passable to the North but the time has slipped away and sleep calls to us. We return home. Lights and running water in the house still allude us but sleep finally takes over and we rest. At first light, we will see the damage:

The house - just some wash out.

Across the road from us, the river was raging across the bridge and the road.

About a mile down the road from our house is a little park area that I like to walk the dogs to. This is their watering hole.

Field of wild flowers - damaged but still beautiful!

I do not know the storm totals but if I were to guess, I would say 3 to 4 inches AT THE MINIMUM in only about an hour to an hour and a half. As far as we know, no one was hurt. Only one house that we know of had any real damage and that was just a mud slide covering up the garage. Another house is now completely secluded as the road in was completely washed out (seriously, the road is gone). Unfortunately, when we went for a drive this evening, I once again forgot the camera! If I get a chance in the next couple of days, I will try to get some photos; it definitely has changed the landscape around us a bit. We obviously have gotten power back and everything in the valley is returning to normal. I just have never seen it rain so hard in such a short period of time; crazy!! Oh well, we kind of like the adventure of it all!!

The Double-Jointed Dance

2009-07-20T22:37:00.002-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to the most amazing, talented, and maybe just a little bizarre child ever to grace the Schumacher family reunion. He is the one; the only; Amazing JJ!! He can dance with his should blades while singing a cute little tune. Check it out:

The video says it all - he has a talent...

First Completed Project

2009-07-13T18:56:00.002-05:00

So here it is; my first completed bracelet in my new studio:

Have a couple more started and I cannot wait to show them off!! Of course, I have to finish them first...I think I will go up and work on that!

C'ya!

Random Camera Fun

2009-07-12T11:38:00.015-05:00

Mike and I decided that we would go fishing yesterday after he got home from work (he had to work 3 AM to 7 AM). I was to have everything ready to go so that when he got home around 8 AM, we could jump in the Xterra and be on our way. Well, he got home about 8:45 and I was ready. We did jump into the Xterra and head on down the road. Now, from our how to the lake we wanted to go (Rampart Range) is only about 15 miles from our house as the crow flies. However, there is no direct path from our house. There are several 4 X 4 trails so we chose one and headed up. Thank goodness I packed a lunch because we didn't make it to the lake until around 12:30 PM. Our chosen path was slightly hilly, rocky, and required 4 Lo most of the way! Now, with such a late arrival (if you are not already aware), trout don't really like hot weather so at that time of day, catching fish is just a little slow. I did have some random fun with the camera though:

Mike is bored out of his mind waiting for a fish to bite.

My bobber floating in the water - that's right, no fish biting it.

Looking at the end of my pole down into the water - super cool that there is a close-up setting on our camera!

Lucky for us, some storms ended up rolling in...

We took another 4X4 trail back down to our house. Unfortunately, I was too busy holding on to take any photos of the trails. I am sure we are going to take them again!

Project Complete

2009-07-10T23:12:00.004-05:00

For the past week during my "staycation", I have been working on a project to complete my studio above the garage (cleaning it up and making it usable). I completed that project today and video taped a tour for you so you get a first-hand look:

This is Room #1:

This is Room #2:

I'm glad to be done and look forward to spending some time up there

The Shack

2009-07-10T00:09:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, my mom was here and spoke about a great book she had just read called "The Shack". She searched pretty hard at all of the stores we visited to find a copy for me to read. She (of course) was successful and handed it to me telling me that everyone she has spoken to about the book owns a copy for themselves and a copy to share. After she handed me my copy, I read the back cover and was simply intrigued by what the text synopsis had to say (you can find more at their web site) so I started reading right away. It took me a total of 5 days to read (would have been less if I would not have had a couple of other projects to complete while on vacation). Quick, easy, and keeps you engaged; my favorite kind of book!

Guess what folks? This book is wonderful! While claimed to be only a novel and open to interpretation as to the validity of the story itself, you will find yourself laughing, crying, and really reaching into places that you did not know existed in your heart/mind. By the end, you will greatly long for a loving (and real) relationship with God; the kind of relationship that you have with your best friend. I do not want to reveal much more because it really will take away from your experience in reading it. However, I would love to share with you the opportunity to read it and then discuss the contents after. I have a copy to share so contact me and let me know if you are interested!

Thank you Mom for making me think and beginning to speak with God the way He really intended!

Trust in the Lord

2009-07-08T18:14:00.000-05:00

Things to do in the neighborhood

2009-07-05T19:43:00.004-05:00

A few storms and the fact that Mike was getting a ton of calls from work kept us close to the house today. We decided in the middle of the afternoon to cross the bridge down the hill from us and hike the nature trail along the river to Deckers.

We ended up with some fantastic views of Trumbull. This first one is our house:

Behind us in all of the clouds is Scraggy Peak. Notice we are both wearing rain jackets; it started pouring on us as it has been the past few days. We didn't let that stop us from finishing our hike though!!

Finally, I couldn't resist the temptation to take a close-up photo of a wild flower:

We stopped at the Decker's store from an ice cream and then headed back to the house along the road. This is only ONE of the trails we can take in our neighborhood. I look forward to our next opportunity to explore what we have right outside our door!

C'ya!

Happy Holiday!!

2009-07-04T13:44:00.001-05:00

I have been playing around on Facebook all day today - I don't know why I'm not outside enjoying this fantastic holiday - but there you have it. A friend of mine posted a video and I think it is just adorable. Unfortunately, Youtube no longer will allow me to embed it into my blog for some reason so you will have to click on the link to view it. It is well worth it though!

Have a happy (and safe) 4th of July!

C'ya!

Beautiful Weeds

2009-06-28T22:14:00.009-05:00

While walking through the mountains in the summer, a person will be greeted with fields of green; grasses, trees, and weeds fill the horizon as far as the eye can see. However, when the spring rains come through continuously providing an endless supply of water, the weeds can become fields of beautiful flowers. I guess you could say they are the most beautiful weeds!

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-21T22:22:00.004-05:00

This past week has been fantastic! So many stories to share and so little time to do it! However, the focus today is on the dads of the world so the stories will have to be shared another time.

I had the pleasure this Father's Day, to start the day with my dad (he and Mom were visiting for graduation; one of the other stories). Unfortunately, today is the day they had to head back home (thanks to work scheduling a conference in Phoenix this week so he had to come LAST week instead...GRRRRRR). I made both Dad and Michael breakfast this morning (bacon, eggs, and cinamon rolls - yummy!). I hope they both know just how much I love having them in my life!! For Dad - Happy Father's Day and I can't wait until your next visit. For Michael - Happy Paw Paw's Day and I am so happy we were able to spend the day together with ALL of the kids (Alyx included).

After everyone left, Michael, Alyx, Topos, Sedona, and I headed up what we have now named "Mewes Mountain". It is all up but worth it once you reach the top. Mike shot a video when we got to our destination (after many stops; one included a picnic lunch):

We had a blast but I am extremely sunburnt! Mike and I decided after to hop on the bikes and head to the Decker's store for a quick cup of coffee. We then played a couple of games of horseshoes (we have a new set and a nice area to play). We played two games and each won one. However, all of this running around today, and I am BEAT!!

Alyx has gone on to Missouri with her mom and grandma, but it was nice to finally see her after two years! Hopefully the time in between is not so long next time.

Well, my vacation is about to end so I had better sign off and head to bed so I can begin my next work week fully rested.

C'ya!

Enjoying the mountains!

2009-06-04T22:58:00.003-05:00

I have been so busy lately with moving, working, unpacking, working, and gardening that I have hardly had any time to sit down and play around on my computer outside of doing work-related stuff. Over the past couple of nights, Mike and I have just simply been enjoying out new mountain home by taking the dogs for walks up and down stream. Last night, we saw a couple of very large mountain cats as well as a ton of deer. This morning on my way to work, I came across a nice sized brown bear (he was on the side of the road, I in the car at a safe distance). I so wich I could have gotten a picture of the bear; he was HUGE!! I guess we are getting acclimated quite nicely to the mountain scene. Some time in the near future, I will have to sit down and write the story of Mike's small accident. However, tonight is not the night. Just a quick post to let everyone know we are still alive.

C'ya!

The Bucket List

2009-04-25T22:20:00.002-05:00

Saw this posted on Facebook and thought I would see what I could say...

Things I have done during my lifetime:
(X) Gone on a blind date
(X) Skipped school
( ) Watched someone die
(X) Been to Canada
(X) Been to Mexico
(X) Been to Florida
( ) Been to Hawaii
( ) Been to Greece
( ) Been to Israel/Palestine
( ) Been to Africa
(X) Been on a plane
( ) Been on a helicopter
(X) Been lost
( ) Gone to Washington, DC
(X) Swam in the ocean
(X) Cried yourself to sleep
(X) Played cops and robbers
(X) Recently colored with crayons
(X) Sang Karaoke (after a LOT of alcohol!)
(X) Paid for a meal with coins only
(X) Been to the top of the St. Louis Arch
( ) Been to the Sistine Chapel
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
(X) Made prank phone calls
( ) Been down Bourbon Street in New Orleans
(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
(X) Danced in the rain
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe
(X) Watched the sunrise with someone
(X) Blown bubbles
( ) Gone ice-skating (unless you count rubber boots on the pond)
(X) Gone to the movies
( ) Been deep sea fishing
( ) Driven across the United States
( ) Been in a hot air balloon
( ) Been sky diving
( ) Gone snowmobiling
( ) Lived in more than one country
(X) Lived in more than one state
(X) Lay down outside at night and admired the stars while listening to the crickets
(X) Seen a falling star and made a wish
(X) Enjoyed the beauty of Old Faithful Geyser
(X) Seen the Statue of Liberty
(X) Gone to the top of Seattle Space Needle
( ) Been on a cruise
(X) Traveled by train
(X) Traveled by motorcycle
(X) Been horse back riding
( ) Ridden on a San Francisco CABLE CAR (took lots of pictures but didn't have time to ride one)
(X) Been to Disneyworld
(X) Truly believe in the power of prayer
( ) Been in a rain forest
(X) Seen whales in the ocean
(X) Been to Niagara Falls
( ) Ridden on an elephant
( ) Ridden on a camel
( ) Swam with dolphins
( ) Been to the Olympics
( ) Walked on the Great Wall of China
( ) Saw and heard a glacier calf
( ) Been spinnaker flying
(X) Been water-skiing
( ) Been snow-skiing (even though I live in Colorado)
( ) Been to Westminster Abbey
( ) Been to the Louvre
( ) Swam in the Mediterranean
(X) Been to a Major League Baseball game
(X) Been to a National Football League game
( ) Been to a NASCAR race (not to a race but around one of the tracks with professional drivers, right Eric??)

Interesting. I guess I would have thought this list would have been just a little different. Oh well - back to packing!

C'ya!

Art For God

2009-04-19T18:54:00.002-05:00

Off and on all day I have been looking at the Facebook update page just to see what everyone has been up to: Simply enjoying my day of rest doing nothing but resting. In my searches, I found an interesting artist and his web site. I find it truly interesting how different artists select different subjects and/or topics and create great works of art!

Personally, I'm looking forward to moving so I can get out all of my supplies and be able to simply go into a room and begin to create!

C'ya!

The Cabin by the River

2009-04-18T00:02:00.002-05:00

Mike and I are working to rent a cabin by Deckers, CO by the South Platte River. Here is a photo from above by the garage:

You can see more photos on my facebook page in the Mountain Living album.

What do I like best? The art studio above the garage! I'm so excited to have a place to set up my arts and crafts full time and be able to work on stuff. Cross your fingers for us!!

C'ya!

Funny Birthday Cards

2009-04-05T13:07:00.003-05:00

So this time of year is all about birthdays in my family: my parents, my niece, and my husband. last weekend, my sister-in-law and I had a fantastic time listening to all of the cards from Hallmark that play sounds/music/etc looking for the perfect card for my dad. We giggled and laughed until our sides hurt and then finally decided on one that was perfect for Dad. When I got back to Colorado, I needed to pick one up for my husband's birthday as well. It didn't take me long to grab the perfect card for him. I had to shoot a video of it just to show Jeri:

So Happy Birthday to everyone! I would shout it from a mountain top but seriously...the snow is just too deep right now!

C'ya!

But it is a good tired...

2009-03-15T23:01:00.004-05:00

It has been a while since we have been able to get out of the city and head up into the mountains. With Mike in school and me working non-stop, we just haven't had the time. However, this weekend, we decided we would let nothing stop us from heading on up and getting away from it all. We had a wonderful time!

Topos and Sedona joined us today for a hike through one of Jefferson County's open space areas out near Conifer (Pine Valley). I have to admit, I think this one is one of the most beautiful and challenging of all of the open spaces; even though this one has really been destroyed by fire...We also could not resist the temptation to do just a little geocaching while we were here. I downloaded a wonderful application for my iPhone that allows us to use the phone as a GPS. It is quite handy!!

I shot the following video when we reached one of the caches farthest from the truck. The area was completely destroyed by fire several years ago and what you see is what remains. Yet another reason to quit smoking:

I have photos to share but that is going to have to wait until I have some time to download and look at what I have. I have to get up early, pack, and head to Cheyenne, Wyoming for a week full of work...

C'ya!

Send me to my room...PLEASE!

2009-03-08T11:04:00.002-05:00

I'm sitting here this morning checking out some YouTube videos and I came across a video posted by one of my team members' son. I sure wish I would have had this option when I was 14 (and my brother's Commodore 64 does NOT count!):

Listen to what this kid knows about his PC. I believe I was playing with my barbies and hot wheels cars at that age! Of course, I'm sure our parents said the same thing at my age about us :o)

C'ya!

In the rearview mirror

2009-03-07T22:32:00.002-06:00

Over the past two weeks, I have been driving all over the place with work. I haven't really had the time to enjoy my surroundings. While driving home from Cheyenne last week, I noticed that I had a great mountain view in my rear view mirror.

It's always good to look behind you and see where you have been. That way, in case you get lost down the road, you can find your way back to where you were before you got lost!

C'ya!

Here you go Mom!

2009-02-28T23:13:00.001-06:00

I can't exactly find the widget I used previously to link to my Facebook page so I added one so at least Mom can get back onto Facebook and remain connected :o)

Not much to say tonight - really tired...

C'ya!

A Song Stuck in My Head...

2009-02-14T11:37:00.004-06:00

For some reason, this song popped into my head for Valentine's Day. It makes me think of my cousin singing it at her sister's wedding and I can see her crinkling her little nose :o)

Bubbly:

Performed by: Colbie Caillat

V1: I've been awake for a while now
you've got me feelin like a child now
cause every time i see your bubbly face
i get the tinglies in a silly place

C: It starts in my toes
makes me crinkle my nose
where ever it goes i always know
that you make me smile
please stay for a while now
just take your time
where ever you go

V2: The rain is fallin on my window pane
but we are hidin in a safer place
under the covers stayin dry and warm
you give me feelins that i adore

C: It starts in my toes
makes me crinkle my nose
where ever it goes
i always know
that you make me smile
please stay for a while now
just take your time
where ever you go

B: What am i gonna say
when you make me feel this way
I just........mmmmmmmmmmm

C: It starts in my toes
makes me crinkle my nose
where ever it goes
i always know
that you make me smile
please stay for a while now
just take your time
where ever you go

V3: I’ve been asleep for a while now
You tucked me in just like a child now
Cause every time you hold me in your arms
Im comfortable enough to feel your warmth

C: It starts in my soul
And I lose all control
When you kiss my nose
The feelin shows
Cause you make me smile
Baby just take your time
Holdin me tight

Where ever, where ever, where ever you go
Where ever, where ever, where ever you go…..

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone I love!!

C'ya!

Future Leader of Corporate America - ME!

2009-02-11T22:24:00.002-06:00

One thing that I have committed myself to this year is to develop a little more knowledge of what is going on in the Information Technology field so that I am able to use that information in my current and future positions. I spend way too much time sitting around on Facebook and not enough time reading up on items that should be really important. However, on one of the newsletters that I receive in regards to today's technology world, I found an interesting interview in regards to the social networking sites (such as Facebook):

M: What do you say to people who hear the term social software and think it’s only for techies?

David Teten: I think it’s a gross misapprehension – 84 percent of Americans participate in online groups. Particularly for the next generation, it is normative to spend hours per day communicating with your friends via blogs, instant messaging and so on. And those are the folks who are the future leaders of corporate America. It’s rapidly becoming mainstream. And when you’re communicating online, you have to learn the local culture. Everyone is doing this haphazardly, and we’re trying to create a systematic way to learn about these technologies.

So I guess I need to keep doing what I'm doing because my networking on Facebook is leading me to be a future leader in corporate America!

Going back to play some more...

C'ya!

First Born - Doggie Style!

2009-02-08T10:33:00.005-06:00

I was tagged on Facebook to talk all about my first born. Since I do not have children but Furkids, I am going to fill this out with their information instead!

Here you go mommies - a different kind of survey for a change - it's all about your first born! Just copy and paste it in a new note for yourself!

1. WAS YOUR FIRST PREGNANCY PLANNED? Nope - Lucky was quite a hussie...

2. WERE YOU MARRIED AT THE TIME? Nope

3. WHAT WERE YOUR REACTIONS? You should have gotten her fixed!

4. HOW OLD WERE YOU? 29

5. HOW DID YOU FIND OUT YOU WERE PREGNANT? Kim told us

6. WHO DID YOU TELL FIRST? I surely don't remember but it probably wasn't until we moved that anyone knew that we were getting puppies

7. DID YOU WANT TO FIND OUT THE SEX? No - I'm sure Lucky probably did it doggie style

8. WHAT WAS YOU DUE DATE? January sometime

9. DID YOU HAVE MORNING SICKNESS? Um, I think I had the flu once...

10. WHAT DID YOU CRAVE? Beer...

11.. WHO/WHAT IRRITATED YOU THE MOST? That we didn't have our own house for the puppies...

12.. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CHILD'S SEX? I believe a girl was born first, then it went something like boy, boy, girl, boy, girl, girl, boy, girl, boy....

13.. DID YOU WISH YOU HAD THE OPPOSITE SEX OF WHAT YOU WERE HAVING? No, I usually just enjoy the moment

14. HOW MUCH WEIGHT DID YOU GAIN THROUGHT THE PREGNANCY? I actually lost weight...

15. DID YOU HAVE A BABY SHOWER? No - I just took regular showers...

16. WAS IT A SURPRISE OR DID YOU KNOW? No, I usually knew when I was going to take a shower - it was always time...

17. DID YOU HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS DURING YOUR PREGNANCY? No, not really

18. WHERE DID YOU GIVE BIRTH? In Kim's garage

19. HOW MANY HOURS WERE YOU IN LABOR? 2 hours maybe...

20. WHO DROVE YOU TO THE HOSPITAL? I didn't go to the hospital - we took Lucky to the vet when she got milk fever

21. WHO WATCHED YOU GIVE BIRTH? No one

22. WAS IT NATURAL OR C-SECTION? Natural

23. DID YOU TAKE MEDICINE TO EASE THE PAIN? Yeah - when we had to bottle feed all 9 of the surviving puppies every 3 hours...

24. HOW MUCH DID YOUR CHILD WEIGH? How much does your fist weigh??

25. WHEN WAS YOUR CHILD ACTUALLY BORN? January 28, 2002

26. WHAT DID YOU NAME HIM/HER? Topos and Sedona were the two we took. Their original names were Tick and Red. The rest of them the only names I remember are bear, Big Momma, and Pretty Girl.

27. HOW OLD IS YOUR FIRST BORN TODAY? 7

Member Rewards

2009-02-02T23:44:00.002-06:00

We all have New Year's Resolutions (even if you won't admit it to anyone). Mine originally was to lose weight. With the back problem I had at the end of 2008, that was one that I had to sort of put on hold while I worked to be able to move again. Well, I am not 100% yet but I am now able to do some exercising. The best I have found so far is the pool. Mike and I joined a gym the other day just for the pool. If you have one of these close to you, I highly recommend checking them out - 24 Hour Fitness. They have a rewards program that I really must admit is worth it if it means we can get back into shape. They offer 'medals' for working out at the gym. The rewards include a coffee maker (just like I got for Christmas) and a razor (just like I bought Mike for Christmas). These are not 'cheap' gifts. It really is almost like getting your money back if you can earn the medals. Just a fun way of working out if you ask me.

Just so you know, I have lost 3 pounds in the 3 weeks since I started counting calories and going to the gym every other day to swim. I'm also back to being able to walk at a decent pace on the treadmill. Keep me honest here :o)

Well, I'm off to bed.

C'ya!

Favorite Super Bowl Commercials

2009-02-01T18:26:00.007-06:00

Well - it is that time of year again...the $3 Million dollar commercials. Here are my favorites:

1. Bud Light in meetings

2. Doritos Snow Globe

3. Budweiser Clydesdale Fetch

4. Coca-Cola insects

5. Career Builder - Need a new job

During the game, I decided I wanted to make a matching set for my necklace I made a couple of weeks ago:

I'm excited to wear them tomorrow :o)

Well, we are headed to the gym.

C'ya!

Take the time to write!!

2009-02-01T00:03:00.003-06:00

My cousin, pointed out to me a new law that is going to be going into effect soon that will affect many of the small artists out there in the world. I encourage you to take a look at this web site and write to your local congressmen and senators letting them know how insane this is!! It is hard enough to be willing to take the chance to start your own business with the talent that you have. This law looks to me to be making that even more difficult than it already is!!

C'ya!

Fun in Kansas City!

2009-01-18T00:35:00.003-06:00

I traveled to Kansas City for the weekend to meet with a possible buyer for our house. I'm not sure how it went...I guess we will see if he is still interested!

Last night, I crashed the UOPX Kansas City holiday party. It was nice to see some of my old coworkers as well as Santa! The rest of the weekend I spent with Danelle just hanging out and enjoying time together. We enjoyed lunch at Taco Johns:

visited friends in the area by crashing Cripplecon:

went to see a movie (Paul Blart Mall Cop...wait for the DVD release rather than spending $40 in the theater)., and enjoyed a Sheridan's frozen custard. I also gave her the Christmas gift I made for her a while ago but was never able to give to her since we missed each other for the holidays:

She cried so I guess that means she liked it :o):

We just really hung out and chatted...one thing that I miss about Kansas City. I need to work on getting her to move to Colorado!

Tomorrow, I head back home. I just need to figure out how to get all of this stuff into my suitcase...

C'ya!

What a Cousin!

2009-01-15T20:34:00.003-06:00

A late addition to the coolest Christmas Cards from my cousin KJ:

Thanks!!

I'm off to get some rest in the pool!

C'ya!

Update on Issues

2009-01-10T20:52:00.002-06:00

Well, if you are related to me and have been following FACEBOOK, then you know I am having a bit of trouble with my back. We originally thought it was a bulging disk. However, Friday I went to the chiropractor and when I was describing what was happening (pain more concentrated in the left hip) we think that I actually have a twisted hip. The good news is that my back feels much better; the bad news is that I can hardly move from the pain that radiates from my hip. The best thing (I have been told) that I can do is walk. So Mike and I went to Sam's Club this afternoon, bought a membership, and wandered around the store for about 2 hours. I am pretty well beat up for today. Just going to sit here the best I can and watch the rest of the football game. Then, I am going to call it a night and hope tomorrow life is better!

C'ya!

My Favorite Christmas Cards

2009-01-04T13:44:00.003-06:00

Since we moved, we haven't gotten nearly the number of cards that we have in the past. I'm thinking that I need to send some cards out so people have our new address. Of course, as soon as I do that, then we will move...so maybe next year. Anyway, we got some really cute ones:

Barb and Len are both artists (they work at World of Fun in Kansas City). Every year they have the cutest cards! The dogs are their two little ones...

Brian and Regina put together an adorable card which included pictures of the family.

Angie put together a neat idea where under the package was pictures of her kids.

Tammy (Coworker at UOPX) gave me this card. I really liked how elegant it looks.

There was one more that I really liked - however it is posted in my cubicle at work so I wasn't able to scan it in (it was from Eric and Jeri). Thank You to everyone who sent us cards this year! I love getting cards and seeing how everyone is doing! Stay tuned for next year to see who gets posted!

C'ya!

Nothing Else I Can Do...

2009-01-03T18:32:00.002-06:00

With my back the way it is right now, I can't do much so I decided to work on making a necklace:

I'm so excited about the way this one turned out - I think I am going to work on another one!

C'ya!

Happy New Year??

2009-01-02T18:03:00.003-06:00

Happy 2009 Everyone!

Mike and I did nothing out of the ordinary on New Year's Eve this year. In fact, we did what we do almost every Wednesday night: headed up to Erie, CO to the Colorado Coal Company to listen to Dirk's Irish band play. They extended their play instead of 9:30 to midnight. However, we decided the 'crazies' on the road would be dangerous to us newbies so we headed out around 10:30.

Dirk is Mike's cousin and we joined him and his family for dinner before the band started playing. We had a great time; drinking coffee and eating some wonderful Chocolate Moose!

We got home shortly before Midnight with the intention of celebrating the ringing in of the new year. Unfortunately, I was getting ready for bed and somehow, tweeked my back. I turned wrong and seems that was all it took; I couldn't move. Lucky Mike has been through it before and has been extremely helpful (especially when I got stuck on the toilet...). We were able to contact Mike's Chiropractor on New Year's Day and he met us at the office to see what he could do. We were most impressed with the fact that he met us there on a holiday but even more so when it turns out he went to UNL and missed the fist half of the game to fix me up. I have no idea how to thank him.

I'm still hurting and have spent the past two days laying pretty much flat on my back with ice and a brace. If I have to get up, it is quite the ordeal. We are going back again tomorrow morning to have the Chiropractor work on it again. I have every confidence that he is going to be able to fix me up and with all of this rest...

Oh well - keep us in your prayers. We received a phone call today from someone in Kansas City who is very interested in making a house purchase of one Liberty property; found us in the phone book (**mental note...get our number unlisted). Seems that the Man upstairs is looking out for us. We would not have been home today if not for my back so we would have missed the call; and I'm bad at checking voice mail on the home phone because no one has it...LOL. I am leaving this one in God's hands - he knows what he is doing!

I am going to go back to watching football...

C'ya!

Christmas with Ella!

2008-12-29T21:41:00.002-06:00

Well, Christmas has come and gone. Don't worry though, we have the memories as well as the photos to prove it! I'm going to start by posting the video of my neice, Ella. She was passing out the presents to everyone. She just kept saying she wanted more presents for her at first. Her Mom kept telling her that she needed to wait until all of the presents had been passed out. This video is where she says that we need to wait for all of the presents:

I have more but I think I will tease everyone for a while. This will have to tide you over for now...

C'ya!

All About Bras...

2008-12-24T09:06:00.002-06:00

A man walked into the ladies department of aMacy's and shyly walked up to the woman behind the counter and said, 'I'd liketo buy a bra for my wife.'

'What type of bra?' asked the clerk.

'Type?' inquires the man, 'There's more than one type?'

'Look around,' said the saleslady, as she showed a sea of bras in everyshape, size, color and material imaginable.

'Actually, even with all of this variety, thereare really only four types of bras to choose.'
Relieved, the man asked about the types.

The saleslady replied:

'There are the Catholic, the Salvation Army, the Presbyterian, and the Baptisttypes. Which one would you prefer?'

Now totally befuddled, the man asked about the differences between them.

The Saleslady responded, 'It is all really quite simple... '

The Catholic type supports the masses.
The Salvation Army type lifts the fallen,
The Presbyterian type keeps them staunch and upright, and
The Baptist makes mountains out of mole hills.

Have you ever wondered why A, B, C, D, DD, E, F, G, and H are the letters used to define bra sizes?

{A} Almost Boobs...
{B} Barely there.
{C} Can't Complain!
{D} Dang!
{DD} Double dang!
{E} Enormous!
{F} Fake.
{G} Get a Reduction.
{H} Help me, I've fallen and I can't get up!

I hope your husband was at Victoria's Secret finding you the perfect size!!

Merry Christmas!!

C'ya

2008-12-22T22:29:00.001-06:00

With 2 days before Christmas, REMEMBER:

Jesus is BETTER than Santa –

Santa lives at the North Pole.
JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year
JESUS is an ever- present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited
JESUS stands at your door and knocks and then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, what’s your name?"
JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

JESUS has a heart full of love.
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"
JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.

Santa's little helpers make toys
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree,
JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It's obvious there is really no comparison.
We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about.
We need to put CHRIST back in Christmas.

Jesus is still the reason for the season.

May the Lord Bless and Watch over you and your loved ones this Christmas 2008
And may He prosper and bless the work of your hands in the New Year 2009

I've Been Elfed!!

2008-12-20T13:18:00.002-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Quote For the Day

2008-12-17T22:11:00.000-06:00

"You can complain because roses have thorns, or you can rejoice because thorns have roses."

Ziggy

Need I say more?

C'ya!

Christmas Came Early!

2008-12-15T21:58:00.000-06:00

Mike's mom and step-dad sent our gifts to us a little early. I'm thinking I can't give too many details yet but let's just say it was totally cool in my opinion. One of those gifts that will be even better in about 10 years...

On another note, I'm looking for the last quarter in the State quarter series...Hawaii. Then, I will have a complete set! That's another one of those things that will give back in a few years...

I'll give more details on what we got after Christmas so I don't ruin anything for anyone...

C'ya!

The Doghouse

2008-12-14T23:32:00.001-06:00

This cracked me up; mostly because my anniversary present this year was indeed a vacuum. I never thought about putting Mike in the doghouse for it though - it's what I REALLY wanted! To avoid in the future though...

Off to bed I go!
C'ya!

Celtic Thunder

2008-12-13T11:38:00.002-06:00

I was told the other day I have forgotten about my blog...not forgotten, just a short sebatical!

Mike's mom gave us tickets to Celtic Thunder for Christmas. The concert was last evening and it was quite amazing! While not at all what we expected, we still had a wonderful time. I was quite amazed by the youngest member of the group:

I also really enjoyed this song:

You can see a little of all of the show here:

What I tried to find was some of the drummer music they did but I can't seem to track any of it down. Let's just say the band playing at the end when all of the singers left the stage at the end was truly my favorite!

Enjoy!

Christmas is coming...

2008-11-22T19:19:00.003-06:00

The weather was perfect today so we decided we best pull the lights out of the basement and get them up on the outside of the house. We got a very late start so unfortunately, it got dark on us and we didn't get them done. Hopefully tomorrow is just as nice so we can finish up and I can upload the finshed product photos!

Mike up on the roof putting the lights along the roofline.

I'm decorating the tree right out front of the house.

The children wait inside for us to finish up and come inside to snuggle!

Mike on the other side of the ladder.

I actually climbed up there and help him out. It was kind of scary! The last time I was on a roof was the roof of the chicken house at the farm; which was about 3 feet off the ground and I was about 20 years younger!

Stay tuned for the updates from completion of the lights.

C'ya!

Follow-up to Party Post

2008-11-18T20:36:00.002-06:00

So - if you can't make it to my house and you are going to be in Nebraska for Thanksgiving, then I can show you what it is and we can work something out :o) I got samples of the books today and will bring them with me if I can. I also have order forms and all of the specials so will be happy to show you all about it...

Boring day at work and nothing much on television so I think I am going to work on a necklace.

C'ya!

A Dessert Party!

2008-11-15T21:04:00.001-06:00

For anyone in the Denver/Colorado Springs area who might be interested:

Do you have boxes of photos in your closet that you keep meaning to put into photo albums?? I would like to invite you to join me on Monday, November 24th at 6:30 PM for a scrapbooking workshop so we can make room in your closets for coats instead! Click here to view the full invitation as well as information about 'digital scrapbooking'. Please RSVP no later than Friday, November 21 as space is limited (and so I can plan for desserts) :o) Don't hesitate to invite a friend or forward to anyone you think would benefit from this workshop! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

C'ya!

FINALLY!

2008-11-14T23:04:00.003-06:00

Denver's average first snowfall is October 18th. Here we are in November, and we still have not received our first 'mesurable' snowfall (.1 inch) according to the weather people. Well my picture from our backyard this morning sure says differently...

If this isn't considered enough, I can't wait until we get our first 'real' snowfall!

C'ya!

Now I've done it!

2008-11-11T22:14:00.001-06:00

I created a facebook profile. Sadly addictive:

http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1632726562&ref=name

Enjoy!

C'ya!

Fly Fishing

2008-11-09T16:25:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful for a Colorado November day. We decided that we would take advantage of the weather and Mike's cousin Dirk and head down to Deckers to do a little fly fishing. Anyone who knows me knows that I have never fly fished in my life! Well, we didn't have much luck in way of catching any fish, but we enjoyed the day anyway!

Mike and Dirk are looking for any signs of fish.

Ready to head down the trail.

Mike and Dirk are getting everything together.

Awesome River View!

Our future B&B??

We now have Colorado fishing licenses so we will need to go at least 2 more times before March to make it worth it. Look for additional photos :o)

C'ya!

Fitting in...

2008-11-04T22:09:00.003-06:00

I have been in Colorado for about 10 months now and I hadn't thought much about the relationship building that I have been doing at a local level. Today I received a huge boost when the Denver Campus Director gave me a huge kudos in the leadership development program graduation. I thought I was simply doing my job by doing as requested. However, the group saw it as so much more. During their program today, I received a special thank you and was presented with a small gift of appreciation. What I didn't realize is how much they knew about me in just this short time. You see, the gift was two books (which if you know me, I love to read). One of them was a Colorado photography book and the other was a Colorado treasure book. WOW! How could they know how much I would appreciate it! I'm really starting to feel at home here...

I have some reading to do...

C'ya!

Cool Sounds

2008-11-03T20:19:00.003-06:00

While at Emma lake, Mike was throwing rocks on the ice to see what it sounded like.

Groovy, huh??

Well, off to watch some football...

C'ya!

November 1st???

2008-11-02T17:39:00.004-06:00

Someone told me a couple of weeks ago that your Birthday can last the entire month. Well, we decided to take full advantage of that yesterday. I received a wonderful gift from a friend of mine of a gas card. So we filled the truck and headed up to Alma, Colorado. Surrounded by 14K mountains, we knew we would not be disappointed with the hike! Now, while the temperature in Denver yesterday was a beautiful 75 degrees, up at 13K feet, the temperature was a chilly 29 degrees as we started the hike. Thus the reason we are all bundled up. We trudged through snow that was waist deep and ended up soaking wet. However, we had a wonderful time!

Waiting for PawPaw to head on up.

We are ready to go with our new gear. Thanks honey!!

I set the camera down on the frozen ice up at Emma lake and snapped this photo.

A snowy view.

Mike is getting the snow out of his boot.

Ice inside one of the mine shafts. Most of them were blocked off but this one allowed us to get back about 20 feet. Kind of cool but no gold...

We hiked up to the small black hole you see in the middle of the photo to sit out of the wind for lunch. It got nice and toasty as we enjoyed our lunch. I managed to take a short little nap while Mike snapped several photos.

Topos is listening to the ice shift on the lake below. He was pretty worn out!

Hanging out by the lake.

Hiking around the lake with the puppies. Both Mike and I managed a couple of bruises but nothing too serious. It was worth it!

After the hike, we drove some of the jeep roads in the area. We made it up the mountain quite a distance before the snow was too deep to drive through. We are definitely going back to this area in the summer time. We could climb four fourteeners in just a couple of days without too much trouble! It is just a matter of getting over the altitude sickness and camping a few days...

Well, I'm going back to watching some football.

C'ya!

Halloween Fun

2008-11-01T22:31:00.003-05:00

The past two days have been crazy with work and Halloween so I haven't had any time to sit down and post. I do have some fun pictures from the events though. I dressed up both days as 'Sally' from "The Nightmare Before Christmas" movie. (By the way, if you are looking for a great Christmas gift for me...). I actually won 'scariest costume' from the Southern Colorado campus. Didn't mean to be so scary :o)

Southern Colorado Staff.

I loved the box of crayons!

The Denver Campus Employees.

Some of the gang from the South.

They were telling us that we were before and after UOPX students.

Well, I'm watching a movie so...

C'ya!

Science & Nature Museum

2008-10-29T21:51:00.004-05:00

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is located in the old Park Hill district in Denver. Yesterday, one of my staff members, my boss, and I took an IT field trip to the museum; simply something to get out of the office for a while. It was really cool. We didn't have nearly enough time to make it all the way through. In fact, while we were viewing the minerals, the security guard came in and told us that the museum would be open tomorrow and we were more than welcome to come back!

Here are a few photos from the museum. A must see!

That's it. Next time I go, I'll try to get more pictures!

C'ya!

I'm a Penguin

2008-10-27T21:32:00.002-05:00

Photos from the Saturday Halloween party:

I wanted you to see my penguin costume so here is the photo I took in the hotel.

The host & hostess - Paul & Jackie

Chris and Christine - of course they are beer drinking bacon and eggs. Go together well don't they?

I have nothing to say about this one...but we picked on Channing all night long...

We never did get Paul to do some duck talking...

It was a good time. I have a few more pictures but mostly of people just standing around...

C'ya!

Kansas City...Kansas City Here I Come...

2008-10-25T12:35:00.004-05:00

This weekend, I came to Kansas City to help with another phase of user moves at the campus. I volunteer so I can come visit Danelle :o) It wasn't as big as the last move I helped with so we were done in a short amount of time. I did snap a few shots of people working though. You will notice there are no photos of me working. DUH! I'm the one taking all of the pictures...LOL!!

Jason connecting all of the phones and computers in the data room.

Jake tearing down a computer in the old space to move to the new. They will be remodeling this area of the campus as well so phase 3 is yet to come.

Marlin moving a computer out of the old space. We use chairs rather than do any heavy lifting :o) Hey, work smarter, not harder I say!

Christine is talking on the phone while carrying computers. Good thing she is really strong!!

Paul is actually working...do you see that?? LOL!

I am going to go over to a friend's house this evening for a costume party. I am sure I will have a few entertaining photos from that to share so stay tuned. Tomorrow I am going to go spend the day with Danelle (when she gets off work) and I am sure we will watch the football game at some point. She said something about making Chillie so...YUMMY!

C'ya!

15th Anniversary

2008-10-20T22:59:00.003-05:00

The celebration continued for a second day for my birthday! My husband is such a wonderful man! It started out with a trip to Wag-n-Wash to clean up from yesterday's adventure.

I returned home to find the following on the steps:

I then managed to get in a nice pedicure (photo not available but they are red). Relaxing and enjoyable I must say! When I arrived home, we enjoyed a nice dinner:

Of course there had to be cake and ice cream!!

It has been a wonderful two-day event! I thank my husband for making these past two days so special.

I'm going to head to bed cause now I must return to the real world.

C'ya!

Happy Birthday to Me!!

2008-10-19T22:59:00.004-05:00

(I know the title is a day early, but because my birthday falls on a Monday, we had to go out today to celebrate)

The day started bright and early as the alarm rang out to tell us it was time to get up. We had everything packed and ready to go the night before so it was a matter of loading up the cooler and all of our gear, herding the dogs into the truck, and heading on out to the West. The sunrise painted the mountains a brilliant purple and the clouds above a wonderful pink as we headed toward them anticipating the adventure. After what seemed like forever, we were in the parking lot at the Herman Gulch Trail Head. The lake was our final destination at only 3.25 miles.

The first leg of the trail was pretty much straight up. We stopped only a couple of times to enjoy the waterfalls along the way but for the most part, we kept right on moving. Of course, we couldn't go on such an adventure without stopping first to find a quick cache. The view from the cache location was simply amazing! We did not, however, know that the best was yet to come!

As our adventure continued upwards, I noticed out of the corner of my eye a lone, bare tree. The shape of the tree led me to believe that we were in great hands!

With that in mind, we continued up...and up...and UP! Mike finally gave up his walking stick as I was having a very difficult time climbing up. The trail was steep and seemed never to end. I never thought we were going to make it to our destination; especially at the 4-hour mark!

However, we crested the final hill and discovered the beauty we had anticipated! The veiw at the top was breathtaking (or maybe it was the fact that we ascended 3,000 feet!!) Topos, Sedona, and I headed right to the water. The bottom was clearly visible as most mountain lakes seem to be. Because of the wind, the reflections were non-existant. However, the views took that fact right out of my mind!

We stopped to eat a picnic lunch. While we had prepared our meal thinking we would be sharing a bottle of wine we picked up in Estes Park a couple of weeks ago, the altitude sickness kept us from popping the cork. Instead, we enjoyed some time viewing the sites and enjoying the solitude and silence you get when you climb a mountain!

After a short rest on the rocks in the warm sunshine, Mike began to ascend toward the Continental Divide up the rock face. Topos, Sedona, and I continued to rest until the urge was too great.

We too, began to climb. I have never had a problem with the 'up' when it comes to rock climbing. In fact, I love to climb up to places that most people wouldn't dream of. The views from that far up are even better in my opinion!

However, the down is where I usually have the most trouble. Luckily, Mike is quite proficient at the art of mountain climbing so he is really quite good at talking me down! As the time had really flown by and the sun was beginning to drop below the crest of the mountain to the West, we headed back toward the truck to head home. Instead of following the trail we had come up, we decided an adventure was in store. We walked across the open plain back to the tree-line along the edge. It was awesome! The views continued to amaze and inspire!

Even Topos took a moment to enjoy the fresh mountain air and a view of the mountains in the distance!

The descent once we returned the trail was a short one. I must admit, I really didn't want to come down but the temperature at 12,000 feet in October is a little lower than I can handle with the equipment we have. I am sure this summer we are going to have the gear we need and make this adventure longer as we hike the Continental Divide trail (and beyond).

For now, the dogs are already snoring and I can't keep my eyes open so I must say good night.

C'ya!

Officially Colorado

2008-10-18T11:05:00.003-05:00

I took yesterday off work so I could get a few things done that didn't involve work. One of those was paying the taxes and licensing fee for my car and getting new plates. It took me much of the morning (2 hours in line) but I finally got them!

I guess that makes me officially a Colorandanite!

Off to pick up our new (used) sofa!

C'ya!

Mountain Artists - Here I Come!

2008-10-12T22:36:00.003-05:00

Six years ago we were freezing in the cold Missouri air. We decided to relive our wedding day by going up into the mountains where the cold fog was forming ice on the trees and the snow was gently falling. We ventured up to Boulder for what is known as the annual Artist Open Studios. Many of the artists who live in the foothills and are well-known in Boulder open their studios to allow visitors to see how they operate. All of the studios are in their homes. I will tell you that I am now highly motivated to get to working on my art :o)

I have a wonderful anniversary story to share but I'm afraid I am a wee-bit tired this evening so I am going to call it tonight. After I finish using my new vacuum (it's what I wanted for our anniversary so don't roll your eyes at me), I will post some photos and a recap of our adventures tomorrow evening.

C'ya!

Hot in October

2008-10-09T17:20:00.003-05:00

Been a few days because I'm in training in Phoenix. I haven't had much time to site down and chat. Mike and I will be celebrating 6 years of marriage this weekend...I'm sure that will produce a story that I can mostly share!

C'ya!

God's Paintbrush

2008-10-05T21:02:00.003-05:00

Our first Autumn season in Colorado. God has had his paintbrush out and has been busy adding color to the landscape canvas in the Mountains. Yesterday was the perfect day to head up to Estes Park for the annual Elk Fest. We enjoyed the afternoon walking through the town, visiting the Mountain Man Rendezvous, and viewing the elk in Rocky Mountain National Park. The colors of the trees are simply amazing!

We rounded the final corner before heading out of the park and happened upon two of the elk seeming to have a battle; not sure over what as there did not seem to be any females anywhere close:

We took the long way home and found a couple more roads that normal people would probably pass on. We had a fantastic time and cannot wait until next weekend for our anniversary. No special plans but we remember the colors from 6 years ago - I'm sure we will see much of the same!

I'm going back to beading a necklace.

C'ya!

The Donkeys Went Down!

2008-09-30T22:02:00.001-05:00

I haven't taken the time to blog and quite frankly, I'm pretty tired right now so I won't be able to blog much. However, I do have to follow up on the Tony G post from the other day. The Chiefs won on Sunday and I have been riding the high ever since. The Broncos fans are all walking around here with long faces (total pun and you can boo if you wish). Well they can get over it! However, Tony G ended up 1 yard shy of Shannon Sharpe's record. The good news? They play this coming weekend and I'm pretty sure Tony can get that yard. So Shannon Sharpe?? Too bad!!

C'ya!

A Memory Brought Back

2008-09-24T22:17:00.004-05:00

I'm in Omaha, Nebraska. The air is thick and making sitting outside chilly. My hair is frizzy because the moisture makes the natural curl come out even after I spent hours making it straight. It is so foggy I can't see where I am driving in a city I used to know so well. My allergies are back because it is that time of the year here in the Midwest. The Western horizon shows nothing but a flat mass of nothingness.

Did I really live here for so long? I guess I seem to have forgotten.

I love being close to family: dinner, hanging out, chatting up all that is going on in life all face-to-face rather than via a blog or a chat window. A short drive and I can go shopping with my sister and a few extra minutes (okay an hour) and I am sitting in my childhood living room watching satellite television with my parents. A little further and I'm hanging out with my younger brother again. I miss that I will admit. I'm seeing all of those little babies growing up before my eyes, but from a distance. My nephews are taller than I...I wish we could all be closer but I don't miss ALL things Nebraska.

Actually, I miss the mountains...

C'ya!

Something for next Sunday

2008-09-23T20:05:00.003-05:00

Everyone keeps telling me that they hope the Chiefs pick up the pace on Sunday and go ahead and beat the Broncos. While I am always hopeful, this season appears to be a little tough to keep that optimism. However, there is something that I would LOVE to be able to see this Sunday. That is the following to come true:

Chiefs nine-time Pro Bowl TE Tony Gonzalez (10,011) needs just 50 yards to surpass TE Shannon Sharpe (10,060) for the most receiving yards by a tight end in NFL history. He needs just four more yards against the Broncos to become the first tight end in league annals to own 1,000 career receiving yards against three different franchises (Denver, Oakland and San Diego).

How cool would it be for Tony G. to get this record against the team Shannon Sharpe played for so many years?? That would be something to write home about.

So here's to Tony G. getting the record and hopes that the Chiefs will beat the team that seems to think they are good...but are in fact, just lucky.

C'ya!

Rock Star Parking

2008-09-21T21:35:00.003-05:00

The day started early: so much to do in a short amount of daylight hours! We loaded up the car and headed to the South. After a short detour through the Starbucks store in Castle Rock, CO, we headed up into the front range mountains. We of course had to take the scenic route via CO 67. On the route, we stopped at a cute little mountain gas station and were greeted by a sweet couple willing to offer us some fantastic homemade cinnamon rolls (for a small fee of course!). They were almost as good as Grandma use to make! We continued on and enjoyed the drive through the mountains to Woodland Park. The approach to Pike's Peak Highway proved to show the road was open to the summit. We paid the price and we began the slow, winding trek to the top. We have tons of photos, however - the videos are the best!

So what is with the blog title you say? Everywhere we went today, we got a parking spot right in the front; we didn't need 'the moms' parking pass. It was fabulous! We figured that meant today was the perfect day!

Well, we both need to pack as we fly out tomorrow: Danelle back home and me to Omaha for work.

C'ya!

A little tough to golf...

2008-09-20T23:40:00.003-05:00

We took Danelle up into the mountains today. If you will notice the photos, there are elk standing out one of the golf courses. Quite the specticle!

When I'm not tired, I will write more about our weekend but I figured Mom and Dad would get a kick out of the photos!

C'ya!

They Lost

2008-09-16T22:43:00.006-05:00

Thanks to my generous husband and the benefit of having friends in somewhat high places, I was able to go to the Chiefs home opener in Kansas City this past weekend. What a great time; even though the team managed to lose the game against Oakland. Here are a few photos that tell the story nicely:

A little airbrush action...

Waiting for tickets to the game after working hard!

Such a cute couple :o)

Fans waiting to enter the stadium. Look at all the red!

David Cook and his brother sing the National Anthem.

I didn't get the entire singing of the National Anthem, but I got the end (which is the best part) and the fly-over.

They are losing already...

Herm does not look happy...

...but neither do the players.

Saying thanks for safety while praying for a win next week!

I must get some sleep...

C'ya!

Race Day Photos

2008-09-10T21:39:00.005-05:00

The race at The Garden of The Gods! AMAZING! I would say if I weren't living in Colorado, I would make it a point to travel here just to do the Race for the Cure at this venue. I have a few photos to share. The first is the view of the start of the walkers for the race. The runners are going past us on the left so we were chearing them on to complete. If you notice, the walkers go to the right. Yes, that is a giant hill that we must walk up. The people that run this have some serious stamina!

Lisa had the bunny ears on! It was classic! Her kids were also walking with us. The video is of them bobbing their head to the music at each of the stations along the route.

Along the route, we stopped for a photo of the group of us who walked together. Lisa, and her two kids are on the left, Me, and then Jeannine.

Lisa and Jeannine on the hill toward the finish line...

Here I am, crossing the finish line. 3 Miles/5K of up and down...

Here is the UOP crew. Wendy (middle of the front in the black) ran the race. The rest of us walked :o)

We had a great time. I'm glad I went back down for the actual race. Next year, I'm betting the Pooches walk will be longer and I won't have the energy!

Mike and I went out after the race and played in the mountains. However, that is a post for another day!

C'ya!