The world is but a canvas to the imagination...

I just thought you all should know...

2010-08-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

I am going to go see this Lady at the Tacoma Dome on Saturday.

From what I hear, she puts on quite a show.

My trip to Forks, WA in pictures. Don't be jealous.

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

I really really really really really liked this movie.

2010-07-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

New things the last two weeks.

2010-06-28T00:37:00.000-07:00

I...

Purchased and received my new laptop.

Booked my trip to Hawaii (February 16th- March 1st).

Booked a hotel for my overnight Forks adventure. (haha, don't ask...)

Booked a trip to Alaska for a long weekend in August for my old roommate's wedding.

Pretty exciting (and spendy) if I say so myself.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

You are the best dad in the whole wide world!

I am thankful everyday you are still here with us!

I love you!!

A duck, a rescue, and a movie.

2010-06-19T22:57:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those weeks where everything seems to go wrong and everyone is out to get you?

Yeah?

Me too.

Talk about frustrating.

This week was a bad one for me in particular...

Rude customers at Target (don't tell me you work in retail and then be a total jerk to me, if anything you should know what I have to put up with...), bad headaches, a missed Mariner's game after a parking lot fiasco, some tears, and a broken laptop later I thought it couldn't get any worse.

Well it did.

I went with my family to go see Toy Story 3 tonight. On our way to the theater we witnessed a poor little duck get hit by a car. Talk about traumatizing. We were sitting in one of the turn lanes unsure of what to do. The poor little guy was struggling trying to turn back over while his brothers and sisters were contemplating their own crossing of the busy street. We decided to pull in front of the hurt duck so no one else could hit it and then one of the other cars waiting at the light honked their horn to make sure everyone else stopped so the other young ducks could cross safely.

While the little family crossed the street, in reaction to our urgings, Ryan jumped out of the van and ran over and picked the injured duck up and put him on the sidewalk out of harms way. To my dismay though the little guy wasn't moving much and tucked his head close into his body. We were all upset in the car thinking the worst. That poor little guy wasn't going to make it. Sadly the light turned green and we had to drive on to the movie.

On a brighter note, the movie was awesome. We all really enjoyed it, but as we headed for home the duck returned to our thoughts and we planned to stop and check on him and help him if needed or at least move him to safer/softer ground nearby. As we prepared to pull over, we all looked and the duck wasn't there...

Now I don't know what happened to him, and maybe it was the movie that put me in a better mood, but I am choosing to believe that he was just stunned, recovered quickly, and is alive and well playing with his family in a pond nearby.

We all chose to believe this scenario. It cheered us up to think of him being safe and uninjured. We were even able to joke some on the way home of how we could help future ducks safely cross busy roads (this conversation then led to other things and ended by talking about kidney stones, I know my family is weird.)

So that is how I am going to end this terrible week, with a good heart-warming movie and dreams of a happy, healthy little duck swimming in a pond with his family.

Who knew a duck rescue could brighten my day?

I am so proud of my brother for jumping out to save that duck. Not many people would have done that.

I hope your week was better than mine and I hope that if you ever see a duck in need, you'll jump out and rescue him just like my brother did...

So here's to better weeks ahead.

And can I just say, I have one awesome family.

Quack.

I wish it were February 2011 already...

2010-06-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

Planning a trip here with a few friends this coming February...

I am way excited!!

I haven't been on a real vacation in forever and since I am still young and single what better time than now?

(who knows, maybe I'll meet the man of my dreams there!)

It will be my first time in Hawaii so anyone with suggestions on where to stay and fun things to do and see for cheap, or better yet, free, please let me know.

Look what I just bought....

2010-06-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to play it!

but first, I have to watch

the DVD I picked up at the same time...

awesome find

2010-06-14T22:58:00.000-07:00

Look at this awesome baby shirt I found at OldNavy.com.

They have a couple different team shirts and I was really (pleasantly) surprised to see this one among them, seeing as the Sonics don't really exist anymore.

I ordered one in every size they carried and someday when I have kids, they will wear them proudly.

I can't wait until they arrive!

The A-Team

2010-06-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

I grew up watching this show.

Now it's time to see the movie.

I really hope it does it justice...

I'll let you know!

Relay for Life

2010-06-05T16:41:00.000-07:00

So working 3:30 PM to 11:30 PM Friday night, heading over to French Field by midnight and walking the track until 6:00 AM, then going home, showering, and turning around and heading back to work Saturday morning from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM is way harder than it sounds. It was worth it though! Anything for a good cause and Cancer SUCKS!

*HIGHLIGHTS*

50 laps
12.5 miles
Hanging out with awesome people (including my sister-in-law)!
Getting off work at 3:30 PM instead of my scheduled 4:30 PM!!

Boy am I tired, but definitely doing it again next year!

Guess who came into Target tonight...

2010-05-29T01:27:00.000-07:00

this lady.

good old

Mary Kay Letourneau

(if you're not sure who she is, click on her name.)

(She now goes by Mary Fualaau.)

So apparently she shops at my Target, but this was my first sighting of her. Vili (now her husband) wasn't with her but two of his kids were. I even had to call her daughter's name (Georgia) over the loud speaker because MK couldn't find her and the store was closing.

(Now that I know her I can call her MK, we're that close.)

So yeah, it was totally weird, and I had to share.

I hope they are very happy together...

Happy Birthday Craiggers!

2010-05-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

I hope you have an awesome day!!
Oh, and I love you!!

Wordless.

2010-05-26T17:47:00.000-07:00

This song says it all.

2010-05-25T23:55:00.000-07:00

I miss my team.

Pet Peeve part two.

2010-05-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

I really, really, really dislike it when I love something so much, that all I want to do is share it with everyone I care most about in life (and even those I don't because it's that awesome), but they couldn't care less.

Ok that isn't exactly what happened this time but close enough, and it wasn't any less irritating...

Just got my tickets!

2010-05-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Junior and Ichiro "Cooperstown Bound" Dual Bobblehead Night

For the first 30,000 fans. I hope I get there early enough!

MUST SEE!!

2010-05-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

Just got home from seeing this movie.

It was two hours and twenty minutes of pure awesomeness.

This version of Robin Hood is the back story of how he became an outlaw,

and Russell Crowe did an amazing job.

Go see it. I promise you, you won't be sorry.

Confessions of a hair novice.

2010-05-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

So I am getting my haircut tomorrow. I have no idea how I want it cut. I am not good at doing my hair and to tell you the truth, I am plain lazy. Depending on how early I have to be to work and how much earlier I would have to wake up determines whether I will flat iron my hair or just throw it up into a messy bun right out of the shower (which is all I really know how to do, pathetic I know).

So my hair is about this length right now while straight, more or less. (Btw, I love this hair!)

I know I don't want to go too short because my hair is thick and poofy so I would just end up looking like a big mushroom. Plus this is the longest I have had my hair in a long time so I am kind of attached to it but I really need to get rid of these nasty split ends, ugh... I am going to go for side bangs again though, that I do know that for sure.

This one is cute, but I would most likely keep my hair a little longer.

This is super cute too.

If I were brave, but I'm not...

As of right now I am thinking of just trimming an inch or two off, with long layers and the side bangs. That way I can continue to grow my hair out. Not gross down to your bottom long, but nice long, unless anyone has a better suggestion...

Now on to styling.

I really like Amanda Seyfried's hair, especially in Letter's to Juliet. (All that is missing is the side bangs.) How do I get my hair to look like this? Do I straighten it then curl it? I guess I need to buy a curling iron, that might help.

Or how do I do this?

Another problem is I have this weird in-between hair. It's not curly, it's not straight, but it sure is FRIZZY! So frustrating, hence just throwing it up everyday. So if anyone has any hair solutions, tips, ideas for cuts, styling and managing, please let me know (the more simple, quick, and easy the better). That goes for straight or curly styles because I would like to be able to do either at a moments notice and according to my mood.

As for up-dos and actually doing my hair all fancy like, I am at a COMPLETE loss.

I would love to be able to do this.

Or this.

But, back to the immediate problem at hand, I need cute hair cut ideas, and I need them fast. My appointment is for 7:00 PM tomorrow. As for the styling tips just keep them coming. I need all the help I can get.

Thanks in advance, I appreciate it more than you know!

Letters to Juliet

2010-05-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

I saw this movie yesterday...

I love a good chick flick.

Though a little cheesy at times, I really liked the story line.

The main actor (Christopher Egan) in the movie wasn't my favorite, but he did a good job. I am just more attracted to the tall, dark, and handsome type.

I am really liking Amanda Seyfried the more movies I see her in. She seems so real to me.

It really made me want to go here.

Verona, Italy.

and here...
Siena, Italy.

So, if you are looking for a cute movie to see with your mom, sisters, or friends of the female persuasion, then I totally recommend this movie.

I really enjoyed it.

I think guys would get bored with it so don't even bother asking them to go with you.

Also, it's only PG so it was a pretty clean movie with only a few swear words.

I went to the 11:10 AM showing because before noon at Kent Station movies are only $6!

I don't think I would spend $10 to see it, but it was totally worth the cheaper price.

If you get the chance, check it out!

P.S. If you aren't sure what the movie is even about click here or watch the trailer below!

Happy Mother's Day!!

2010-05-09T01:10:00.000-07:00

I just want to let you all know I have the best mom in the whole wide world.

I love her so much and am grateful for everything she has ever done for me!

(which is a lot!)

I hope I get to be a mom just as amazing as her some day.

So Happy Mother's Day Mom,
I love you!

As well as my mom, I am blessed to know so many great mothers...

My sisters, who have dedicated themselves to their husbands and children, keeping them healthy, happy, and loved, are the biggest influence on the way I want to raise my kids. They are such an example to me and I am thankful for all their effort and hard work.

So to my mom, sisters, friends, and to all you other awesome mother's out there let your husband and kids spoil you today, because you deserve it!

P.S. Let me know how you spent your day and how your families pampered you.
(so I can get some ideas to share with my future family)
or how you pampered your own mom if you don't have any kids of your own yet!

Midnight showing of Iron Man 2 with my dad and brother...

2010-05-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Enough said.

Proudly introducing the newest member of my family.

2010-05-04T18:53:00.000-07:00

A year and a half after Mike Jones' passing I finally decided it was time for a new hamster.

I got this little guy three months ago but I had to keep him a secret from my parents because I knew my mom would be mad at me

(but not really, she's a sucker for all little furry pets).

So now that the cat's out of the bag so to speak, (my mom had to go get a book out of my room so I figured I should tell her before she saw him.)

I would like to introduce Marshmallow.

Named for Marshall in How I Met Your Mother.

His wife Lily calls him Marshmallow as a term of endearment and in turn he calls her Lilypad.

I thought it was cute.

Plus this little guy is white so it works out perfectly.

Though no hamster will ever be able to fill the hole in my heart left after Mike Jones' passing, I am excited to have a little friend again to love and keep me company!

This totally made my day.

2010-05-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

My sister Annelisa called me today, and while we were chatting I hear my niece Katelyn ask, "who are you talking to?" and when my sister said, "April" my niece asked if she could talk to me. Once she got on the phone she asked me when I was coming to visit her and I told her I would come as soon as I could and then I asked her if she had fun while my brother and sister-in-law were there visiting. After a few minutes I told her I loved her and then she gave the phone back to Annelisa. Annelisa and I resumed our conversation, then all of the sudden I hear:

Katelyn (3 and a 1/2): Mom, I need to ask April a question.
Annelisa: You just talked to her, tell me what it is and I'll ask her for you.
Katelyn: I love you April!
Annelisa (to me): Katelyn loves you April.
Annelisa (to Katelyn): That's not a question Katelyn, that's a statement.
April: Tell her I love her too.
Annelisa: She loves you too Katelyn.
Katelyn (in the background): I love April! I love April!

It totally made my day.

I really miss this little girl.

Ryan and I ripping Craig's shirt off at dinner was a lot of fun too though...

Reading should be against the law, seriously.

2010-04-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

I LOVE to read. It is one of my all time favorite things. When a book just pulls you in and it is so good you can't/just won't put it down. Probably the worst thing about reading is it makes me plain lazy. I can read for hours on end not even leaving my room. It's amazng how the time just flies and I don't even realize it. If I didn't have to work I would never leave my room! I also tend to get attached to books, I have to read fast, to find out what happens in the end but then when the book is done I sort of feel lost and alone. Like I just lost a good friend.

Well anyway that happened to me last night...

A few days ago I started reading:

These is my Words

The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine

1881-1901

By Nancy E. Turner

I didn't really have much time to get into it when I first started a few days ago but then yesterday after work I got sucked in and couldn't stop until I was finished. Unfortunately for me that wasn't until 1:00 AM last night and I had to be up for work by 5:30. It was totally worth it though. Such a good book. Now, I don't want to spoil it for anyone but if you like a good love story like I do, you HAVE to read this book! Plus that time period is always so interesting to read about. It's a fictional story about a young woman and her family in the Arizona territory. It is heartbreaking, sweet, funny, tender, and even scary at times. It brings out every emotion like a good book should. Sarah is a very believeable character and is totally my hero and I have to admit I am madly in love with Captain Jack Elliot. My crush started as soon as he was introduced and by the end I would do anything to marry a guy like that!

So go read it! You won't regret it, I promise!

Now I am reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett. I'll let you know how it is!

I just realized something...

2010-04-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

My life is so boring, that I don't have anything exciting to blog about.

I have been really busy with work and housesitting and things like that, that I haven't had a chance to sit down and blog about anything for awhile.

So I thought today, on my one day off of work this week that I would sit down and catch up on a little blogging.

It was then that I realized that I really don't have anything to say. Despite being so busy my life is still really boring.

So as I sat here at a loss of what to blog about, I decided to catch up on reading all the posts I have missed on all the blogs I follow and I realized that my blog will never be HALF as awesome as any of those ones.

I am just not creative enough or have the time or the dedication to make anything more of it.

It is what it is.

That's ok though. I can deal with that.

I hope you can too.

I hope everyone has an awesome weekend!!

Who's excited...?

2010-04-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight's the night we have all been waiting for!

After almost five LOOOONG months, Glee is finally back!!

Don't forget to watch it tonight, it's on at a special time!

(Check your local listing.)

Weekend.

2010-04-12T00:42:00.000-07:00

How was everyone's weekend?
Mine was awesome...
Except for the fact that I may have gained 20lbs from all the really good food I ate.
(Ok not really but it feels that way.)

Let's see, what else?

I LOVE my new bike and can't wait to go for a long ride!
I also got a new helmet and bike lock to go with it.
I got Super Mario Brothers for Wii from my brother as a late B-Day present.
I haven't played it yet but I am pretty excited because it is supposed to be more like the original Mario game.
I have watched the first few episodes of the first season of MacGyver.
Also a B-Day present from my other brother.
(My famly loves me!!)
Man I love that show and I still wish that I could have married him...
I also ended up seeing Date Night twice.
Friday and Saturday night.
It is hilarious.
I will definitely be owning that one.

Ok well I am off to bed.
Busy week ahead full of:
Housesitting
Working
Running
Bike rides
and
hopefully lots of other fun things!

A few things I am excited for this weekend...

2010-04-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

First payday!!

Birthday dinner and cheesecake with some good friends!!

Hmm... which one should I choose?

Seeing a funny movie!!

Family Birthday dinner at my favorite restaurant!!

Joining a new gym with some new friends from work!!

and last but not least...

Getting a new bike!!

I can't WAIT for this weekend to start!

Well it's official...

2010-04-04T00:32:00.001-07:00

I'm old.

Happy Easter everyone!!

Pet Peeve.

2010-04-01T02:17:00.000-07:00

Ha ha! I just realized... No pun intended!!

Ok, so maybe it's just me but when you have a dog and you let it outside, you should either:

A. supervise it,
B. chain it up,
or
C. build a fence or install an electric fence.

Don't get me wrong, I like dogs. They make great pets and they can be so cute. I would love them even more if I wasn't allergic to them and if they didn't cause my asthma to act up. Anyway, back to the point. I've been running around the block the last couple of days because the Lake Youngs Trail is all muddy from the torrents of rain we have been having. Well when I turn down Lake Youngs Road, there has been this Black Lab just wandering around. When he sees me, he runs up and follows me, sniffing at my feet as I run. I even cross the street trying to avoid him but he just crosses right on over too. I have no idea if this dog is friendly. Who knows, he could be the sweetest dog in the world, BUT the problem with that sentence is the key words: "WHO KNOWS?" What if he had tried to bite me?! It freaks me out. I mean what if little kids were outside playing and a free roaming dog just came up and attacked them? Unless you know the dog personally you just can't tell.

I mean ok, it's been a few days and this dog hasn't tried to hurt me (yet), but it's the principle of the matter!

So as a pet owner, I think they should take responsibilty for their pet and make sure that it doesn't bother innocent bystanders just out for some good old fashioned exercise.

What's your opinion?

I really do like dogs, promise!

How I've been wasting my free time lately-

2010-03-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.sportsmansparadiseonline.com/Live_Owl_Nest_Box_Cam.html

Check it out,
and
become a fan of
Molly and her
little family
here!

first and last days...

2010-03-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

Today was my very FIRST day at my brand spankin' new job!! I will just tell you right now that I loved it and I think I will have a lot of fun working there.

Ok now that that is out of the way...

I am turning 26 in one week. Easter Sunday I will be one year older and I have to tell you, I am really dreading it this year. There is something about turning 26 that just really bums me out. I am well on my way to my late 20's and that just sounds so.... well, old. Ugh. I know, I know, it's really not that old, but I got to tell you, it feels ancient. I thought by this age I would be married and have a kid or two, but right now I couldn't be any further from that destination. Funny how life doesn't always turn out the way you thought it would.

So today begins the last days of being 25. *sigh*

Now I am not writing this to have anyone feel sorry for me. Heck, I don't feel sorry for myself so why should you?! I just thought maybe someone could explain to me, why a day that I normally LOVE to celebrate, I don't even look forward to this year? How can I make turning the big two-six easier on and more enjoyable for myself? (Or how I can just avoid getting older all together. *wishful thinking*)

Any suggestions are more than welcome...

P.S. I'm not going to lie, I don't think having my birthday fall on Easter and General Conference weekend really helps my situation.

Last day of freedom...

2010-03-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

I have orientation tomorrow for my new job at Target.

I have no idea when I actually start working but hopefully, I'll find that out tomorrow.

So technically today is my last day of freedom...

Any suggestions on what I should do?

To be honest, I am actually excited to finally start working.

Weird I know,

but seven months without a job is way too long.

I have become

lazy

and

boring

and I HATE it.

So wish me luck and I'll let you know how it goes!!

Happy Birthday Ashley!

2010-03-21T00:03:00.000-07:00

Date: March 20, 2010

Objective: To make Ashley's 26th birthday her best ever!

Plan of Action: Build a Bear at Bell Square, Dinner at the new Hard Rock Cafe in Downtown Seattle, A walk on the waterfront and around downtown, and to finish the evening, we watched some old The Office episodes!

Mission: Accomplished

Me, Ashley and her sister Hailey at Hard Rock Cafe

Ashley and I at the Hard Rock Cafe store

I actually ended up buying that sweatshirt in the background...

Ashley and I at Pike Place with the pig

Me sitting above a fountain on our way back up from the Waterfront

Me again

(I know, I know, this post is supposed to be about Ashley)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASHLEY!!

I hope it was all you dreamed of and more!

Cheesy, I know. :)

How was your Thursday?

2010-03-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day.
Here's why:

Got up early(ish) and went running!

Went to JoAnn's with my mom and picked out some cute Spring fabric for twirly skirts for some cute girls!

Saw Remember Me with my mom and totally cried.

Target called to say I passed the drug test and background check with flying colors. (I wasn't REALLY worried.)

*Plus here's the mini-cherry on top of the regular cherry, on top of the sundae of awesomeness that is my life...

New Community and The Office episodes tonight!!

How was your Thursday?

*Quote from Barney Stinson on How I Met Your Mother

It's about time...

2010-03-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

After ONLY seven long boring, monotonous months,

I am now gainfully employed!

Barring I fail the drug test and background check that is...

woo hoo!!

Happy Pi Day!

2010-03-14T23:29:00.000-07:00

Shepherds, Chicken Pot, Apple, Cherry, Coconut Cream, and Pumpkin Pie with some friends...

(Thanks Satko family!)

How did you celebrate?

Happy early birthday to me!

2010-03-13T18:33:00.000-08:00

UPS delivered an early birthday present for me today!

Thanks Mom and Dad!!

I know it's a little before my time

(seeing as the first season aired in 1983 before I was even born),

but I love this show.

I remember one summer, I was allowed to stay up

"late"

and watch the reruns with my siblings every night.

I'm not going to lie, I felt pretty

cool

staying up until

midnight

with the "big kids" to watch this show.

I have already watched the first couple of episodes since receiving the DVDs earlier today.

It's a little cheesier than I remember, but just as good!

Plus Scarecrow has the CUTEST smile and he and Mrs. King were just made for each other.

Plot: Amanda King (Kate Jackson) is a divorced housewife who lives with her mother, Dotty (Beverly Garland), and her two pre-adolescent sons, Philip (Paul Stout) and Jamie (Greg Morton). One afternoon, Agency operative Lee Stetson (Bruce Boxleitner), codenamed "Scarecrow", hands her a packet while he is being pursued. He later has to track her down to recover it, inadvertently getting her involved with his case. Inquisitive after the case, Amanda seeks to learn more about the Agency and ends up working for them first in an office role and later training to become a full agent, while keeping her new job a secret from her family. She works under Lee's boss Billy Melrose (Mel Stewart) and with dismissive fellow agent Francine Desmond (Martha Smith). Amanda and Lee work together frequently, though he is initially reluctant to work with the "rookie", but they become a good team. As the series progresses, they develop a friendship that turns into a romantic relationship. Eventually they decide to marry, but they still must keep the marriage secret from their employer and their families. --Courtesy of wikipedia.

If you've never seen this show, then I recommend you check it out!

It became available on DVD just last Tuesday.

Festive Running

2010-03-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

Back in December a friend and I ran the Jingle Bell Run/Walk 5k for the Arthritis Foundation in downtown Seattle.

When we picked up our packets the day before the race they gave us bells to tie on our shoes.

The other day, I noticed I still had the bells on my shoes. I wonder what people think when they hear me run by?

Kind of makes the run a little more fun, don't you think?

Forgotten treasures...

2010-03-07T22:31:00.000-08:00

Anyone remember this movie?

So I was thinking about this movie the other day but I couldn't for the life of me remember the title. My brother Ryan and his wife were over for Sunday dinner and I asked him if he remembered it, and he did. He even remembered the title and told me he had been thinking about this movie just the other day as well. (WEIRD!) Then we decided to see if we could find our parent's old VHS copy of it... and we did! So of course I had to watch it. I forgot how much I liked this movie as a kid. It's such a heart warming story and a little cheesy, but that's what 80's movies are good for right? Plus you can't beat all the awesome songs in it by the Osmond brothers!

The perfect couple.

2010-03-04T22:59:00.000-08:00

I was doing some thinking today about the man I want to marry and what traits I desire in my significant other.
I know, heavy thoughts.

Then my mind started to wander to guys from TV shows that I have fallen in love with over the years.
The reason I fell for these guys, was the way they
fought for,
won,
and treated
the one they loved.

There are several memorable couples, that were just meant to be, on television.
Their stories made me smile as I watched from week to week.

Epic loves.

Someday I hope I find my "TV guy".
Until then...

Here are my top ten favorite TV couples:

10- Zack and Kelly

9- Sully and Dr. Quinn

8- Dr. Ross and Carol

7- Ross and Rachel

6- Scarecrow and Mrs. King

5- Logan and Veronica

4- Spike and Buffy

3- Angel and Buffy

2- Marshall and Lily

and my number one favorite TV couple of all time...

drum roll please......

1- Jim and Pam

So there you have it.

My favorite TV relationships I've watched develop and grow over time.

I know it isn't real but part of me deep down hopes somehow, someday it could be.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. -Lao Tzu

2010-03-03T15:04:00.000-08:00

First picture was taken in Eagle River near Anchorage, AK

Second picture was taken somewhere between Fairbanks and Denali, AK

Third picture was taken in Canada (Yukon Territory)

All pictures taken by me.

Baby Halpert...three days and counting!

2010-03-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

Dear John

2010-02-26T19:47:00.000-08:00

So I had been debating about whether or not to see this movie since it came out in theaters.

I love Love LOVED The Notebook. One of my all time favorite chick flicks. I loved it so much I bought the book. Though I did enjoy it, I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as the movie.

Since then, all the other Nicholas Sparks', books made into movies, I have seen previews for haven't really appealed to me (Nights in Rodanthe, Message in a Bottle, and The Last Song). So naturally I was a little leary about Dear John.

First of all I am not a big Channing Tatum fan. Girls think he's hot, but I just don't see it. Don't get me wrong, he's not BAD looking, just not my type I guess.
Then there is Amanda Seyfried. I don't know much about her except for the few episodes she was in on Veronica Mars. (She played Veronica's murdered best friend.)
Thirdly, I didn't know much about the plot of Dear John. From what I saw on the previews it sort of had that "really bad teenage love story" feel to it....

Well today I was bored so I went to go see it by myself. (I love seeing movies by myself). It met all of my criteria for a me movie date:

1. Been out in theaters for awhile.

2. Not a prime time movie slot like a Friday or Saturday night.

3. Matinee price.

Let me tell you something, I am so glad I went and saw this movie by myself. I bawled pretty much through the entire thing and by the end I am sure I looked pretty disgusting with all the snot and stuff. Talk about embarrassing.

Needless to say this movie was REALLY good. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates a good crying movie. There was so much more to the plot than I had originally thought. The previews do NOT do it justice at all. I guess the old saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover" is true...

I liked it so much I stopped by Target on the way home and bought the book. I probably won't like it as much as the movie, but I'll give it a shot and let you know how it is!

On another note, I also watched The Time Traveler's Wife with my parents tonight. It's a pretty good movie too. Though I probably would have appreciated it more if I had watched it on another day rather than on the same day I watched Dear John. Oh well, live and learn.

*REVISION* It is 3:00 AM and I have now finished reading the book Dear John. I started it around 7:30 and only took a brief time out to make brownies. It was really good and I think I have cried more today than I have in a little over a year. Though different than the movie (as all movies based on books are) I really liked it. I think I like the movie better but I like the book for it's own reasons that have nothing to do with the movie.... But now I am torn. I know I definitely like the book better than I like The Notebook book but I don't know which movie I like better. I think I'll call tie. Goodnight everyone!

Some other chick flicks that I have seen previews for recently that I am interested in seeing: Remember Me and Letters to Juliet. Keep an eye out!

I am in love with love.

2010-02-25T23:56:00.000-08:00

a shot in the dark from Nathan Pickett on Vimeo.
I stole this video from RockStar Diaries

For more from Nathan Pickett visit http://www.nathanpickettfilms.com/
or his blog http://www.snowflakeproductions.blogspot.com/

He does weddings, engagements, and family videos.
(His videos are seriously amazing!)

Someday, if I ever get married, I so want him to make a video for me. I wonder how expensive he is, hmm....

I love to smile, smiling's my favorite!!

2010-02-25T15:34:00.000-08:00

ready, go:

family dinners on sundays

running

downtown seattle

funny tv shows

disneyland

a good book

my nephews and nieces

a first kiss

when the guy gets the girl in a good romantic movie

going to the theater

anything orange

babies

pictures

new york

visiting family

favorite movies

the office and how i met your mother theme songs

a great song

alaska

awesome commercials

baby animals

traveling...

what makes you smile?

p.s. can anyone name what movie my title is from?

I don't know about you,

2010-02-23T13:36:00.000-08:00

but I couldn't be more excited!

Happy Tuesday everyone!!

Guilty pleasure...

2010-02-19T18:06:00.000-08:00

I am not a very fashion savvy person, nor do I have the confidence to pull off certain fashion trends even though I secretly admire them.

I almost always choose comfort over fashion, but I love seeing what people are wearing, what's hot and new.

Alas, there are just some trends that go way over my head, I have a hard time understanding, and/or refuse to support.

That being said... I love this show:

I don't watch it regularly, but when I do I always feel like I learn a lot. Plus I am completely jealous of the shopping spree and makeover in New York City.

What I like about this show (besides Clinton Kelly and Stacy London and their brutal honesty) is that they TEACH you to become a better dresser. They show you what types of clothes work the best with your body type and help you find those essential pieces that make up a complete wardrobe.

Even the makeover is a learning experience. For someone like me, who never wears makeup and doesn't know the first thing about applying it or what colors go with my complexion and coloring, this information is very helpful.

By far though my favorite part of the whole show is the confidence gained by the nominated and how their lives are changed for the better. Don't get me wrong- Nice clothes do NOT = happiness, but I do believe that they can help you feel more confident in who you are than just hiding behind your clothes can. (and yes I am guilty of this...)

I would love to be on this show someday! Until then maybe I should just get this book...

Vroom vroom

2010-02-17T01:42:00.000-08:00

I got my motorcycle endorsement a few years ago and have yet to use it...

My friend Anthony and I took a class at ESC Motorcycle Safety Training. It was pretty amazing, in just three days they took novice riders (like myself) with little or no experience on a motorcycle and turned them into licensed riders. The class was three days: a Thursday night in the classroom from 6-9, a Saturday in a parking lot at Boeing in Kent from 9-4 and then back in the classroom for the written test from 6-8, and then Sunday was back at Boeing for more riding from 9-2 and then the riding test. I passed, and the class was a lot of fun and I am glad I did it, but to be honest I am still a little terrified to ride a motorcycle. Riding in a parking lot going only 20 miles per hour (at the most) hardly qualifies you to be out on the streets with other motorists!! I am sure with practice it would get easier though.

When I lived in Alaska, my friend Brandon took me for rides on his motorcycle during the summer. It's such an awesome and carefree feeling to ride on one. (I won't tell you how fast he went.)

My friend Angela, her husband Jesse, and I went to the International Motorcycle Show at Qwest Field a few months ago. It was a lot of fun. We saw lots of different bikes and scooters. I don't know much about bikes but I'll show you some of my favorites.

I would love one of these for my birthday...

Seriously, how cute do I look on this?!?

Because it's orange!!

Little kids dirt bike. How adorable.

Angela on the perfect starter bike for a girl (Kawasaki Ninja 250). If only I could get one in orange.

The class was a few years ago and I haven't ridden a bike by myself since. I think it would be more of a recreational activity for me if I really got into it. Right now though, I am more interested in scooters and vespas (they are so darn cute).

I love this song.

2010-02-14T22:50:00.000-08:00

There is something about this song... I love it and could listen to it over and over again. The video isn't that exciting but the song makes up for it.

Sotto Voce

2010-02-11T00:56:00.000-08:00

There is this cute little shop at Pike Place Market called Sotto Voce- Purveyors of fine oils and vinegars. They sell different flavored olive oils and balsamic (and other) vinegars. You can taste test all the different flavors with the bread and toothpicks they provide. It is an awesome gift idea for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, the up and coming Valentine's Day, or any other occasion you want to spoil that special cook in your life.

While I was there I talked myself into getting (which isn't hard to do) a bottle of their Olio Buon Gustaio (Spicy Garlic Oil).

I also picked up Aceto Balsamico (Garlic and Pepper Balsamic Vinegar).

They had two sizes of bottles to choose from (I got the larger). The larger run between $15.00 to $20.00 a bottle, but if you buy any two of the larger bottles they are two for $30.00! They can also ship them straight from the store to anywhere you want.

When purchased, they package the bottles in a cute box so they won't easily get broken if you are still wandering around the Market!

So if you are ever at Pike Place Market check out this little store to try some unique and delicious flavors that will enhance your cooking and eating experience! If you don't live in Seattle or won't be visiting anytime soon, check out their website for other locations or to buy online!

http://www.sottovoce.com/

As you wish...

2010-02-10T13:16:00.000-08:00

There is something about romantic comedies/chick flicks that I just love. I don't know what it is but I want to live in one. I know it's not possible, and real life never ends up like in the movies, but for 90 minutes, it's fun to just sit back and imagine your life as a fairy tale.

Most romantic comedies/chick flicks, though some what differing in plots, share a same idea/goal. Guy gets girl. Oh sure, first they don't hit it off right away, or if they do something happens to mess it all up, but that is just the drum roll for what is to come... in the end there is this great, romantic, happily ever after ending. *sigh*

Since Valentine's Day is coming up I thought it would be fun to make a little quiz of some of my favorites and see who knows their chick flicks. Just leave your answers in the comments. The winner will be awarded sole bragging rights... (you're welcome)

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

*bonus* (hint- I am seeing it this Friday in honor of the holiday)

So there it is. Good luck everyone and I hope you find your fairy tale...

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Duck! Rabbit!

2010-02-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

I love children's books. Wait, let me correct that, I love GOOD children's books. I have many favorites and I have collected them throughout the years hoping that someday my children will be able to enjoy them as I have. I recently came upon a children's book titled Duck! Rabbit! Though there isn't much to the story, I think it is a really cute and fun book for kids. I purchased it for some of my nephews and nieces for Christmas this last year... as well as myself!

Some other children's books I love are: Where the Wild Things Are, Llama Llama Red Pajama, You Are Special, Jumanji, The Little Engine That Could, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Corduroy, The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs, Lon Po Po, Stone Soup, Cars and Trucks and Things That Go, The Polar Express, Oh The Places You'll Go, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, plus many more. (This list could go on forever.) I am always on the lookout for new (or old) children's books to enjoy! So recommend away!!

P.S. Someday, when I am rich, I am going to have a house with a huge library inside with all my favorite books, children's and otherwise.

This is so going in my blog!! -Barney Stinson on HIMYM

2010-02-07T01:26:00.000-08:00

In my 25, almost 26 years on this planet I have watched a lot of TV. Probably way too much TV, but when I find a show I like, I get hooked and have to watch it every week. Some of my all time favorite shows and some new ones I have started to enjoy are:

-MacGyver
-Scarecrow and Mrs. King
-Buffy the Vampire Slayer
-Angel
-Monk
-Psych
-Veronica Mars
-The Office
-Community
-Glee
-Bones
-Lost
-How I Met Your Mother

Probably my favorite TV show of late is How I Met Your Mother...

Right before I moved home from Alaska my friend introduced me to the TV show How I Met Your Mother. While living in Alaska, I bought and watched the first two seasons on DVD. Since coming home I have obtained and watched the third and fourth seasons as well. Though I have never actually watched a new episode on TV, this show is so funny and one of my all time faves. It can be a little crude, but it is hilarious and the episodes are very creative. This show never fails to put a smile on my face and make me laugh. I think everyone should watch this show!

Some of my favorite episodes:
-Cockamouse
-The Pineapple Incident
-Game Night
-Slap Bet
-Swarley
-Spoiler Alert
-Slapsgiving
-Sandcastles in the Sand
-Intervention
-The Front Porch
-Right Place Right Time

Living in Alaska left me with plenty of new experiences and amazing memories. I am grateful for the year I spent there and everything I learned and the friends I made. Watching this show, though such a small and insignificant memory compared to everything else I experienced there, reminds me of all the fun I had in Alaska. So when I am missing AK, I just pop in one of the seasons and it takes me back!

Abstract Space Needle

2010-02-05T02:21:00.001-08:00

When I used to live on First Hill in Seattle, Anthony and I would get up early Saturday mornings and go for walks around Seattle and explore our new home. That was one of my favorite memories of living in Seattle. One Saturday morning we found this little art gallery/shop on Melrose Avenue, right next to Bauhaus Books and Coffee. It was called Warren Knapp Gallery and they had the coolest paintings of the Space Needle I have ever seen.

Here you go Warren Knapp, here is your free plug from a girl who loves your work.

They sell their art in their gallery, or you can commission a piece, choosing color and size. How awesome is that? If I had the money I would have an Orange Space Needle picture 16" x 20" made up (and for only $350.00, like I said, if I had the money).

Another cool thing they do is if you get your name put on their birthday list and you go in on your birthday, for each painting you buy, you get one of equal or lesser value free. That is pretty SWEET!!

I miss you Mike Jones...

2010-02-05T00:59:00.001-08:00

So lately I have been thinking alot about my deceased hamster Mike Jones. I was in Alaska when he passed away and I never got to say goodbye, but my brothers gave him a very lovely funeral that honored him and his short but meaningful life (read about the funeral here).

I really want to get another hamster. They are so cute, fun, and low maintenance pets.

I'm thinking maybe I will get one like this next time...

This little guy is actually pretty famous. His name is Mozart and he has his own website and there is a video of him on YouTube. One of the cutest things I have ever seen!!

http://hamsteronapiano.net/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfqNXADl3kU

If I do get another furry friend, any suggestions on names?

*note* There is no replacing Mike Jones, he was one of a kind and loved by all. Any future hamsters I own will be loved just as much, but MJ will always have a special place in my heart.

I love you dad!

2009-01-28T15:28:00.000-08:00

You know what stinks? That fact that no matter how hard we try we can't help but to take people for granted. That is until we lose them or almost lose them.

This last weekend I almost lost my dad. I have never been so scared in my life. The thought of losing another family member was just unfathomable. I was and am not ready for that. Losing my sister was one of the hardest things I have ever gone through and even now it still makes me sad and I think about her everyday.

So my dad still being in the hospital and not fully awake (it could take awhile) but making progress everyday, I am feeling a lot more confident in his recovery and am finally able to write about it.

I am not going to go into the details of that night on here but rather tell you a little about my dad.

My dad is the best dad in the whole wide world. I know a lot of people say that but I know I'm right. My dad is amazing. He is the smartest man I have ever known. He can fix and or build anything. He loves to read and do crossword puzzles (he knows so many useless facts but I love it). He loves to learn about anything and everything and can sit and talk about the things he has learned for hours. I love how he gets excited when he talks about things that interest him. He is the cutest man. He always helps me on any questions I have financially, medically, spiritually etc. He is the most caring and loving man and willing to help anyone in need. He has done so much for me in my 24 years and I owe him so much. I never told him how much he has helped me, is an example to me, and how much I respect and love him. When I get married someday I will use my dad as a guideline of what I want in a husband.

I am crying now as I write this even though things are looking good, and even though it may take a while, we are praying for a complete recovery. I want my dad back. It has been so hard to be here in Alaska away from him while this is happening. I know my being there won't help but I still can't help wanting to be there.

I am so thankful for the prayers and thoughts from all my friends and and family. I know they have helped in healing my dad and bringing comfort to me and my family. I am also so thankful for my brother Craig who basically saved my dad's life doing compressions until the ambulance could get there. I am also thankful for Ryan and Becky Jo being so close to offer support to my mom in this time and to my dad. Also to all the people who have come to the hospital and stayed with my mom and those who called as well. So many people genuinely care and love my dad. I can only hope that someday people will be there and care about me just as much.

To my mom you are a really strong woman. I have no idea how you have kept it together through all of this. You are an example to me as well and I really appreciate you and love you. To my brothers and sisters I love you and I am thankful that we have the gospel in our lives to help us through this.

I wish I had a picture to post of my dad but I don't. I will have to remedy this.

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2009-01-10T21:09:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't posted in a long time and really a lot has been going on but nothing exciting to write about so I'll let you see it instead.

*note* these pictures are NOT in chronological order!

Just to give you an idea of what was happening in these pictures...

Chena Hot Springs
Go Kart
Bowling
-25 to -50 degree temperatures

(no that sign is not correct. It was about -40 that night)

Christmas
Halloween
Muktuk tasting
Shooting a gun
Living Nativity

Thanks for a laugh Becky Jo

2008-10-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law sent me this in an email today. There were more but this one made me laugh out loud.

Remembering Mike Jones

2008-10-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

Picture taken with my cell phone soon after he joined my family.

I found out Saturday that my beloved Russian Dwarf Hamster, Mike Jones, passed away. It was very upsetting to have this happen while I am away in Alaska but after shedding lots of tears I realized that he was well taken care of and had a very happy life.

Mike Jones was more than just a pet. I remember the day I got him, two and a half years ago, like it was yesterday. I had been living alone in my first apartment for about two months when I decided I needed some company. So I went to Pet Smart and looked at all the small animals. When I saw Mike Jones I knew it was fate. He was the cutest hamster in the bunch. I immediately bought him, and brought him home. The rest is history.

Thanks Mike Jones for all the times you listened and sympathized with me.
Thanks for always being my running partner, you on the wheel me on the treadmill.
Thanks for running around in your ball and leaving little poop pellets all over my floor, making me have to vacuum.

Thanks for keeping me up at night with all your running on that squeaky wheel.

Thanks for being so darn cute.

So here's to you Mike Jones, my confidante, my pet, my friend. I will always cherish our short time together and I will miss you!

xoxo.

These are pictures from the funeral. My brother sent them to me since I couldn't be there. I couldn't imagine it being any more beautiful. Thanks to my mom and dad, brothers and sister-in-law for all they did during this difficult time.

Aurora Borealis

2008-10-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

I stole this picture from the internet. You have to have a really good camera to capture the northern lights, with all sorts of fancy things like awesome zooming capabilities and other stuff that I know nothing about.

Around 3:00 last night I woke up for my nightly (sometimes several) bathroom break(s). I always just get up and go without getting my glasses because I know the way so why do I need to see? It's not until I get back in bed that I remember that I was supposed to check and see if the northern lights are out, but then I am usually too cold and tired to get back up. I have seen them only once and it was just a faint green streak across the sky. It didn't make it any less awesome though! Anyway back to last night, I was walking back to my room and just happened to glance out the window. Mind you with no glasses, I saw this bright green streak in the sky. I was so excited I ran and woke up Annelisa's mother-in-law (who had said she didn't care what time of night, but to wake her if we ever saw the lights) then I ran to my room and got my glasses and we gathered back at the window to watch the lights. They only lasted about 5 minutes but in that five minutes they dimmed, got brighter, and they moved around the sky. It was amazing! It is one thing I will never get tired of looking at and hope to see it many times more while I am in Alaska. I just hope next time there will be more colors and they will dance around the sky as I heard they do!

Stolen from the internet, below is a picture of what I hope to see!

On another note. One night I did remember to take my glasses with me to the bathroom. When I looked out the window the northern lights weren't out, but I did have an up close and personal view of the big dipper. Now, I have a hard time picking out any of the constellations in a star filled night but this was different. I couldn't see ANY other stars in the sky and it was like it was right above the the house, it was so close. It was just as amazing as seeing the northern lights, so I wasn't disappointed at all. I did not get to see the little dipper though. Maybe some other time!

Also stolen from the internet...

P.S. It is already all snowy here in Fairbanks! Pictures to come soon!!

llama llama red pajama

2008-10-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

This is my new favorite childrens book. My nieces love it, and I think I have read it about a million times to them since I have been here. It is such a fun book and I think every little kid should own it!

Here is another book by the same author about my favorite llama. I can't wait to read it and see if it is as good as the first.

Good old fashioned Anchorage, AK fun.

2008-09-28T20:42:00.000-07:00

I am a very shy person. I have a hard time being in places I don't know and meeting people. There is nothing better than having all the anxiety of meeting new people completely vanish when the people you meet are so friendly and fun to be around.

That happened this weekend.

I went to Anchorage for a long weekend with my sister and her kids. Annelisa (my sister) has a brother-in-law and sister-in-law (Mike and Maggie) that are stationed at Fort Richardson in Anchorage. They have four adorable children Quinton (8), Austin (5), Avery (3), and Jace (1). My nieces had so much fun playing with their cousins. It was lots of fun to watch and play with them.

The reason we went down there was for Quinton's baptism. Because of the special event both sets of grandparents and one great grandma also flew in for the occasion. It was one full house and even though I wasn't family and I was an extra body to house and feed, I felt very welcome there. They are such a great family!

I am so glad to have met so many wonderful people and I had a genuinly good time! I want Maggie to know that I am so thankful to her for having me in her home. She is such a great person and mom!

On the drive there we got to stop at a view point for Mt. McKinley. The most beautiful Mountain in Alaska. We also saw some moose cross the road, just moseying along, taking their sweet time.

While in Anchorage we went on a hike and saw some salmon and lots of beautiful scenerey. Part of the trail was closed due to bears. I wish we had seen one (from afar of course). We also saw some more moose on the way home from church today. No matter how many times I see them, it is still so exciting to me.

Below is a my weekend in pictures. (Sorry, still none of moose.)

Alaska Adventure Number One

2008-08-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

So here I am in Fairbanks Alaska (Fort Wainwright to be exact) and I have to say that so far it's been great, granted I have only been here 5 days. I have already seen some moose. They were only about 50 yards away from us as we walked along the trail by my sister's house. Talk about scary, and of course I didnt have my new camera on me because I am not used to owning one let alone carrying one around with me. but if I had taken a picture of one it would have looked like this...

OK well that is a lie because I am not that good of a photographer and neither of them had horns like the Bull in this picture but you can imagine what I saw right? Annelisa and I saw them again later that day while we were driving home from a church dinner.

So Alaska is pretty much like Washington except colder. The first thing I noticed as I left the airport were all the trees which immediately made me feel at home. The weather has been nice, around 60 to 70 degrees and if it weren't for the cold wind it would be fairly comfortable but hey, I'm not complaining. I am excited for fall and winter to come so I can see all the snow. My nieces are so cute and fun to be around. I have already played UNO a million times since being here. I am also having fun being with my sister and just having someone to talk to and hang out with. She is also a good motivator for me to stay in shape!

Here are some pictures of the girls...

Haley Anne age 5

Callie Jeanne age 4

Katelyn Joy age 2

Here is a picture of the three of them all dressed up to go to a princess birthday party. A little friend of theirs turned three and man did her parents go all out. They rented a ball room at the Princess Hotel in Fairbanks and held the party in there. Along with cake and ice cream, they decorated crowns to wear, and they were given magic wands. They also got glitter in their hair, their nails painted, and makeup put on. They also got rings, necklaces, and bracelets. After getting all prettied up they danced around to music from High School Musical and Enchanted. It was lots of fun for the girls and Haley even sang some of the songs she knew in the microphone.

Haley was wearing a barbie wedding dress, Katelyn was Tinker Bell (i know, she's not a princess but that's all that would fit her), and Callie was Snow White.

Tag... You're it!

2008-07-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Alida

How To Play This Game of Tag: Post these rules on your blog.
List: 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 facts about yourself.
Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog!

3 Joys:

My family and friends
A good book
Running

3 Fears:

Spiders
Being unhappy the rest of my life
People I am close to dying... (sorry for being such a downer)

3 Goals:

Lose some weight
Run a marathon
Get happy

3 current obsessions /collections:

Losing weight
Getting ready to move to Alaska
Making some new friends

3 Facts about myself:

I'm really shy
I love the color orange
I am a sucker for chick flicks

OK so I am supposed to tag five people but I don't know that many people with blogs and Alida and Annelisa were already tagged so that leaves you Candace... Sorry!!

Essay one

2008-07-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

I got a 92 out of 100. I have since fixed all the errors. Also it was in MLA Format but when you cut and paste it into a blog, not so much. This first essay we had to answer some questions too, so that is why there are paragraphs about me and what I hope to learn etc. Essay two is due Tuesday the 15th and as soon as I get it back I will post it as well. With all the other little assignments turned in I have a 95% in the class so far (and that is because we have only had 165 points possible so far and I have only missed 8 points out of that 165- which was on this essay. By the end of the class there should be a total of 850 points possible or something like that). Only 2 papers to go (after the one turned in on Tuesday which is already written) several more busy work, in class, little assignments, and one Annotated Bibliography. Six and a half classes left and that half class is really only an hour and it is just picking up our final graded research paper.

April Bohlin
Professor Butler
English 201
01 July 2008

Are Schools to Blame for Childhood Obesity or is it the Parents who “Feed” the Problem?

A Smucker’s Uncrustables Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich (fast, easy, and convenient, already prepared just grab from the freezer and go), a grab bag size of Doritos, Capri Sun, and a Ding Dong. This is example of an average lunch brought to school and eaten on a daily basis by millions of children nationwide. Some parents justify sending their children to school with these unhealthy items thinking that at least it is better than the pizza and french fries still served in many school cafeterias today, and other parents just do it for convenience. School lunches, as unhealthy as they can be, are not completely to blame for the rise in childhood obesity. With many schools revising their menus to include more healthy options for students, the parents are now the ones who need to take a long, hard look at their own pantries and what they put in those brown paper bags that their children grab on the way out to catch the bus.

School cafeterias have always been associated with greasy, fattening foods that children love to eat and more and more parents are sending their children to school with cash instead of a lunch box out of convenience. Also, in most households these days, both parents work so they do not have time to make their children a healthy lunch. In answer to this dilemma, parents send money for school lunch or children’s favorites high in calories, fats, sodium. and preservatives. With these options, how are children supposed to learn to make good choices in the foods they eat? Many schools are seeing the need to minimize the amount of junk food they sell to help with the rising numbers of obese students walking around their halls. Peggy McConnell, a school official at Parklawn School in Alexandria, VA, where they have undergone the transformation to healthier foods, noticed, “The brown-haired boy unpacking his lunch he brought from home. Among the offerings: Gatorade and a 99-cent bag of Lay’s potato chips, which by itself is 360 calories, 210 of them from fat... ‘See?’ she says ‘This is what we are up against’” (qtd. in Aratani). The way children eat can be broken down to two parts. One part is learned by example and the other is availability. Often they are not taught to eat healthy and because the world is too busy, dinner is served in the drive through at McDonalds, and the only choices at home or school are high in fat. How will they learn?

I chose this topic of childhood obesity because I plan to study and graduate with a degree in Nutrition. I am a runner and an avid believer in living a healthy lifestyle. Don’t get me wrong, I love dessert just as much as the next person, but for the most part I try to be good. When I was younger I knew nothing about this topic. I did not care what I ate. I loved pizza, candy, ice cream and fast food. I don’t even think I thought about my weight until I was out of high school. If we develop good habits early in life, it is easier in the long run. Studying nutrition will also help me to know what I should and shouldn’t eat on a higher level besides just trying to read labels on foods. I hope with this degree I can help others make better life choices pertaining to food and exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

I plan to research the causes of childhood obesity, how it can be reversed and or prevented, and how weight can be an issue in these children’s lives. I would like to find out if other factors come into play such as race, social class, location and gender. I also plan to research what methods are being used today to help these children live healthier lives.

I hope to learn and understand why childhood obesity occurs and to help those struggling with this problem. Also to be able to use the information when I have my own children someday, so they will not have to deal with some of the issues facing overweight children, such as ridicule from peers, health problems or just not being able to do the things they want to do because their weight holds them back. I hope to be able to educate others, as well, on the dangers of being obese.

As part of my research about childhood obesity, my first step was to look at the places children are getting most of their food. Are these foods they are being exposed to at school hurting them or are the parents not taking enough interest to what is going into their children’s mouths? I know we live in a society that is go go go all the time but there should always be time to be healthy. It is so easy to grab an apple or some carrot sticks, or to drink water instead of a soda pop. There is no excuse to choose anything but a healthier option. Schools are starting to make more healthy choices available for the students but it must be remembered that children will be influenced by the example of their parents who perhaps need to change their eating habits as well.

Works Cited
Aratani, Lori. “Slimming Down Schools; A la Carte Menus, Parents Often Thwart Cafeteria
Makeovers.” The Washington Post. 21 May 2008: B1. ProQuest. Bellevue Community College Library, Bellevue, WA. 26 Jun 2008 .

New

2008-07-05T16:11:00.001-07:00

A lot has happened and the weekend isn't even over. I am not going to talk about it here. Sorry. If you want to know call or email me.

and the topic is...

2008-07-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

So I decided on the topic of Childhood Obesity for my research paper. Causes, prevention, treatment, how it effects their lives and anything else I can get my hands on about the subject. I have already turned in my first essay (today) but there are four total and they are all supposed to build on each other. The first one dealt with school food vs parents.

Sounds exciting huh? Well what do you expect I am going to study Nutrition!

Any info or ideas you can throw my way feel free...

But in the mean time,

Here comes the bride... again.

2008-06-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

So this last weekend I drove to Spokane to see one of my good friends from high school Angela get married (again) *note she married they same guy their first wedding was just quick because they were moving to Montana and none of her friends got to go so they had another one.

I have not had that much fun in a while. I met some really cool people both from Seattle and Montana and saw a couple of friends from High school I hadn't seen in six years! I arrived in Spokane on Friday around 5:00 in the afternoon and I had barely any voice left. Well what do you expect? It was a four hour drive and I was by myself so I was bored. What else is there to do besides sing at the top of my lungs the whole way there?

So first night was the rehearsal dinner. Not having to go to the rehearsal but still get a nice dinner, how sweet is that? Then Angela and the bridesmaids and I went to their hotel and spent the night because I was an "honorary" bridesmaid. Right... but really I got all the luxuries of a bridesmaid without the hard work and dress. Just how I like it!

The next morning (Saturday) was the big day! We woke up early because Angela had a hair and makeup appointment and I was her driver. Let me tell you this now Spokane has the worst roads ever! They have the dumbest intersections and the roads are in serious need of repair. Also I should mention that Hoop Fest was this weekend as well. The biggest three on three basketball tournament in the country (maybe world). Guess where it is held? SPOKANE! That's right. Kudos to you. So not only are the roads retarded, half of them were closed because courts were set up on them.

Ok I shouldn't really complain because they are the ones who had to play out in the 95 degree weather. BUT STILL!

I dropped Angela off at her makeup appointment after driving around for 20 minutes trying to find street parking and then after she left me so she wouldn't be late, I drove around for another half hour still looking. I ended up parking 15 blocks away or so. For me it wasn't bad because I live in Seattle and am used to walking everywhere but it was dang hot out there and she had to walk back after getting her face did. Good thing it was sweat proof 12 hour makeup air painted on for only $225.00.

Anyway so the wedding was outside along with the reception -Crazy Angela, what was she thinking? An outside wedding in June (almost July) in Spokane? I am surprised I didn't get heat stroke. It was very pretty though.

At the reception after being coaxed on the dance floor after lots of begging from the bride and some of Jesse's Microsoft friends (and after I changed into something a little more comfortable) I actually danced once with a Jack Black double in both looks and personality. His name was Peter and he was a riot! Of course after our dance I quickly got back off of the dance floor.

Once it was all over it was back to Angela's parent's house for me because I am cheap and couldn't afford a hotel (so I mooched so what). One of Jesse's (the groom in case you were wondering) friends Eric was also in need of a place to stay so he was there as well. So what did we do when we got back there around midnight? Played pool and talked until 2:30 in the morning (Angela's sister Sarah was with us too hanging out).

Sunday there was a brunch at the parent's house so lots of people from the wedding came over and we ate and played volley ball and I got sunburned. It was record breaking heat or something like that. We were all sweaty and gross but it was so much fun.

I am so glad I went. I almost didn't because I had to go alone and Angela had told me the only people I would probably know there besides her and Jesse were her parents and sister. I am a very shy person so to make that trip not knowing anyone was very brave of me I should say, and it was totally worth it. I am glad I got to meet those people and I hope I get to see some of them again someday!

I don't have a camera so I don't have any pictures but Sarah (Angela's sister and hired photographer) will hopefully share!

Research this.

2008-06-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

So I started school today (Just got home in fact. First days are always the shortest). I haven't been in school for five years so I thought I would start slow, you know, with one class, see how it goes.

Since the summer quarter is a lot shorter they only offer certain classes at certain times and the only one that fit into my schedule and fulfilled one of my requirements was English 201 Research papers... What was I thinking?! Research papers! That isn't baby steps, that is like a giant leap. I should be taking a PE class or an Art class or I don't know anything but this! *Note- When I say anything but this, that excludes all Math and Lab Science classes. Those will come later when I am better prepared and the shock of going to school again has worn off.

So this class is Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:00pm to 9:45pm for six weeks. Again, what was I thinking? I decided that it was perfect because at the time I was working 40 hours a week and thought I could only handle one class. Well, now that I have quit my job and am looking for one with more flexible hours I should have rearranged my school schedule and maybe taken more classes.

For right now, I think I have enough on my plate and all I can say is I hope it tastes better than it looks. Oh well. At least the teacher seems nice. So wish me luck and I will keep you updated on what my research topic shall be and how the paper is coming along.

P.S. Any ideas and pointers will help---talking to you Mrs. Morris

"Missed it by that much."- Maxwell Smart

2008-06-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

I saw this movie this weekend with my two brothers, sister-in-law and my friend Ashley. I loved it, a MUST SEE! Even if you didn't grow up watching the re-runs like my family did, you will love it. Steve Carell is awesome. He is so awkwardly funny and he played the part perfectly. Don't get me wrong I loved Don Adams as the original Agent 86 but this movie was a good tribute. I can't wait to make my dad go see it!

Nothing says "I love you" like candy.

2008-06-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I have told you or not but I have the best boyfriend ever. He does so much for me. He is always supportive of my endeavors and encourages me to do whatever makes me happy. So I decided to surprise him with a candy gram. Cheesy I know, and though candy can never fully describe what Anthony really means to me it was kind of fun to write...
Shhh... It's a secret.

*Note* Candy used will be in bold.

My SWEET TART,

The REISEN for this letter is to let you know how much I love you. I can't believe I SKOR-ed a BIG HUNK like you. (Not just any MIKE AND IKE would do!!) I know it isn't always easy when I SNICKER about your 100 GRAND PAYDAYS and the MOUNDS of time you spend at work but I know NOW AND LATER you will always be there for me, my LIFESAVER. Thank you for that. Thank you for all the GOOD AND PLENTY times and just remember that when I call you a NERD or a WHATCHAMACALLIT I mean it in the nicest way possible!

KISSES

Your HOT TAMALE

P.S. I ended up having to substitute RAISINETS for REISEN because I went to (count em) one, Two, THREE different stores and all they had were big bags of them. No candy bar size. How lame. Oh well I am sure Anthony will like it anyway.
P.P.S. You will have to excuse the lack of artistic ability or just the fact that I can't write straight.
P.P.P.S. Happy Birthday Dad! I love you!!

Here is to the future... My future!

2008-06-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

So my last day of work is creeping ever closer! It is still very hard to believe. With no job lined up, I feel like I am heading into the unknown. It is all very exciting.

Last Thursday I decided that I have had ENOUGH. Every morning I have to struggle with myself just to get up and go to work. I despise it. My job is so unrewarding. My boss basically told me there was no room for advancement and that my job is what it is. Also I am starting school next week and even though I am only taking one class, I haven’t been in school for almost five years!!! There is no way I could juggle working full time and school, plus starting in the Fall I want to start going to school full time. So I went into my boss’ office and basically said I can’t do it all, I either need to move to part time or find a job with more flexible hours. I knew in doing this that he would say no, he doesn’t let anyone work part time because he is weird like that. Anyway, when he said no I had a hard time not jumping for joy. I am so ready to be out of here.

I start school Tuesday June 24th and in the mean time I am looking for a job with flexible hours. It doesn’t necessarily have to be part time just something I can work around my new life that is school.

*Let me know if you have any leads. Preferably in the downtown Seattle area!*

And the countdown begins...

2008-06-16T12:24:00.000-07:00

four and a half days left of work, I can't wait!!

"Hey Anthony, you want to play a really fun game?" -Joel Morris

2008-06-06T08:22:00.001-07:00

So I spent last night with some of my favorite people whom I don’t see often enough. Joel, Candace and Adam Morris! Seriously I only see Adam about once a year and Joel and Candace maybe two to three times. How sad is that? I love the way I feel when I am around them. They make me feel so comfortable and they genuinely care about me and my life plus we laugh a lot (but how can you not when Anthony, Adam and Joel get together? They are a riot!)

For instance Anthony and I walked over to Joel and Candace’s new place where Adam was spending the night and sat around and chatted while watching Anthony and Joel play a really funny juggling game. It consisted of one of them juggling and then the other one stealing the balls out of the air but keeping up the juggling without dropping any. Then we decided to go on a walk and show Adam all the huge houses over by Volunteer Park. On the way the boys decided to try climbing a huge tree. They were giving each other boosts and trying to walk up the tree. It was good for a laugh. After that we just wandered around and decided to go get something to eat. We ended up at Coastal Kitchen where we shared tons of food. It was such a blast. Then around 11:30 we started the journey home. Of course I left my purse at Joel and Candace’s because I didn’t want to carry it on the walk so we had to go all the way back over there first before we could go home. The wind was blowing pretty hard and it was freezing (for June anyway) so we decided to run part of the way to warm up, luckily
it was downhill!

I really miss spending time with those guys and I really miss Adam. I wish he lived here (Erin too and I am excited to see her when she gets here Sunday!!)

*Pictures are from Adam and Erin's Wedding in Savannah, Georgia. Adam's bachelor party crashed the girls bachelorette party. Candace and I were one of the boys!

I am excited...

2008-05-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

to see my nephews and niece tomorrow (or early Saturday Morning)!!!

A New Beginning!

2008-05-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

If I want my life to change I have to actually take action and do it myself. No one else can give me my happiness. Today is a new day and as good as any to start changing my life!

Some goals (in no particular order) to start this new journey:

Spend more time with my family and friends.
Hug my loved ones more often.
Don't push people away because I am afraid they won't approve.
Finish my degree and get a job I actually enjoy.
Join a Book Club.
Continue Glass Blowing.
Make new friends.
Make the time I do spend with Anthony more enjoyable with less fighting.
Not be so jealous.
Learn to share my feelings and put them into words while keeping my emotions under control.

Well, whether they are life changing goals or even just some that seem insignificant there they are. Wish me luck!

At the risk of sounding like Derek Zoolander, I am going to ask this question in hopes of finding an answer: Who am I?

2008-04-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

I wish that I could learn to relax. I need to not take things so personally and just laugh them off. How do I do that?

I need to learn to be happy with who I am and if things aren't going my way in life I need to take charge and change them. If only it were that easy.

There are so many things always rolling around in my head: doubts, fears, uncertainty. Why do I feel I don't deserve good things to happen to me, that I don't deserve to feel happy? Everyone deserves a little happiness in their lives, heck they deserve a lot of happiness in their lives. Now if only I knew how to get it. How to love myself and appreciate myself.

I need to learn to be my own person and not rely on others so much but still know they are there when I need them and that I am not an inconvenience. That I am worth something. My opinion matters and I need to speak my mind no matter what others may think of me.

Why are some people born so confident and self-sufficient and just generally likeable people and then others are so unsure of themselves (guess which I am)?

I just feel so lost...

I am not sure the answer to any of these but I know these are the things I really need to work on so any help is much appreciated :) (so far not off to a good start on the being my own person and not relying on other people. Oh well I guess we all have to start somewhere...)

G.P. Are you with me?

2008-04-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I went to what could possibly be there very last Sonics game ever at the Key Arena. I spent over $200.00 on two tickets and then I almost didn't go because Anthony and I were fighting. The game started at 6:00 and I think we finally left the apartment at 6:10. We made it to the game two minutes into the second quarter but who should walk in right before us? Gary Payton!! He sat seven rows right in front of me. Literally not seven rows up and three sections over he was right in front of me. I love Gary Payton! He is my all time favorite basketball player. He signed some autographs for people but I was too big of a wuss to go ask him because there were cops making people leave him alone but the few that snuck through he happily signed and posed for pictures. He is so awesome!! Of course Anthony forgot his camera so this is all I could get from my crappy 1.3 megapixel cell phone camera.

Ok here is a better picture of The Glove at the game that was taken by somebody at the Seattle Times.

I am finally doing it...

2008-04-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

I am going back to school!! I have finally decided on what I want to do with my life! I am going back to school to study Nutrition. I am also interested in becoming a personal trainer as well. I am starting off slow and just taking a couple of classes at BCC. It will take awhile but at least I have finally made a decision that I feel good about it and that makes me very happy and excited!

Friday Blues

2008-03-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

So it is Friday March 21st and I only have a half hour left of work with nothing to do so here I am.

Life is pretty sad when the highlight of your day is running seven miles on a treadmill, running to the bank for work (which isn't every day) to replenish the petty cash, and going to the gym (one of the few occasions I actually get to spend time with Anthony). I realized today that I have no life. I don't have a lot of friends and the ones I do I don't see that often or ever, and being shy sucks because it makes it harder to make new friends. Anthony works a lot and I find myself sitting around doing nothing. How do I get out of this rut? How do I meet new people? I am horrible at making plans or even at calling someone to see if they want to hang out. I think it is because in the back of my mind I feel that they won't really want to but feel obligated or that I will get rejected. I know that isn't always the case and I am not proud of it but it is what it is. I hate feeling this way. Help!!

Tonight I am actually going out to dinner for Ashley's 24th birthday but really she is the only friend I see somewhat regularly and by that I mean maybe once a month, maybe. Oh well, I hope everyone has a good weekend!!

Story of my life...

2008-03-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

I got this email from a co-worker this morning and it made me smile. A little over exaggerated but yet so true...

Women in public washrooms... soo funny you have to read it.

When you have to visit a public bathroom, you usually find a line of women, so you smile politely and take your place. Once it's your turn, you check for feet under the stall doors.Every stall is occupied. Finally, a door opens and you dash in, nearly knocking down the woman leaving the stall. You get in to find the door won't latch. It doesn't matter, the wait has been so long you are about to wet your pants! The dispenser for the modern "seat covers" (invented by someone's Mom, no doubt) is handy, but empty. You would hang your purse on the door hook, if there was one, but there isn't - so you carefully, but quickly drape it around your neck, Mom would turn over in her grave if you put it on the FLOOR!), yank down your pants, and assume "The Stance." In this position your aging, toneless thigh muscles begin to shake. You'd love to sit down, but you certainly hadn't taken time to wipe the seat or lay toilet paper on it, so you hold "The Stance." To take your mind off your trembling thighs, you reach for what you discover to be the empty toilet paper dispenser. In your mind, you can hear your mother's voice saying, "Honey, if you had tried to clean the seat, you would have KNOWN there was no toilet paper!" Your thighs shake more. You remember the tiny tissue that you blew your nose on yesterday - the one that's still in your purse. (Oh yeah, the purse around your neck, that now, you have to hold up trying not to strangle yourself at the same time). That would have to do. You crumple it in the puffiest way possible. It's still smaller than your thumbnail. Someone pushes your door open because the latch doesn't work. The door hits your purse, which is hanging around your neck in front of your chest, and you and your purse topple backward against the tank of the toilet. "Occupied!" you scream, as you reach for the door dropping your precious, tiny, crumpled tissue in a puddle on the floor, lose your footing altogether, and slide down directly onto the TOILET SEAT. It is wet of course. You bolt up, knowing all too well that it's too late. Your bare bottom has made contact with every imaginable germ and life form on the uncovered seat because YOU never laid down toilet paper; not that there was any, even if you had taken time to try. You know that your mother would be utterly appalled if she knew because, you're certain her bare bottom never touched a public toilet seat because, frankly, dear, You just don't KNOW what kind of diseases you could get. By this time, the automatic sensor on the back of the toilet is so confused that it flushes, propelling a stream of water like a fire hose against the inside of the bowl that sprays a fine mist of water that covers your butt and runs down your legs and into your shoes. The flush some how sucks everything down with such force that you grab onto the empty toilet paper dispenser for fear of being dragged in too. At this point, you give up. You're soaked by the spewing water and the wet toilet seat. You're exhausted. You try to wipe with a gum wrapper you found in your pocket and then slink out inconspicuously to the sinks. You can't figure out how to operate the faucets with the automatic sensors, so you wipe your hands with spit and a dry paper towel and walk past the line of women still waiting. You are no longer able to smile politely to them. A kind soul at the very end of the line points out a piece of toilet paper trailing from your shoe. (Where was that when you NEEDED it??) You yank the paper from your shoe, plunk it in the woman's hand and tell her warmly, "Here, you just might need this." As you exit, you spot your hubby, who has long since entered, used, and left the men's restroom. Annoyed, he asks, "What took you so long, and why is your purse hanging around your neck?"

This is dedicated to women everywhere who deal with a public restroom (rest??? you've GOT to be kidding!!). It finally explains to the men what really does take us so long. It also answers their other commonly asked questions about why women go to the restroom in pairs. It's so the other gal can hold the door, hang onto your purse and hand you Kleenex under the door! This HAD to be written by a woman! No one else could describe it so accurately!

I'm not sure which one is more adorable...

2008-03-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

Mike Jones or Katelyn, but this is the picture I was talking about Annelisa.

Tuesdays with April

2008-03-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

How is it that the days seem to go so slow yet the weeks seem to fly by? I don't get it. It is very frustrating. While I am at work I feel like the day will never end but then all of the sudden it is Friday, I blink and then it is Monday morning. I don't like it.

This last weekend Anthony's nephew stayed with us Friday night and most of Saturday because his mom was out of town. Friday night we went to the Sonics game courtesy of SanMar's Season tickets (we lost of course). Then on Saturday we went to the Seattle Aquarium. I hadn't been there in a very long time. My favorite part was getting to touch all the different plants and starfish and then the baby sea lions were way too cute. After that we ate lunch at Red Robin on the waterfront and wandered around the little shops. Then we made our way to Gameworks. On the way there it started hailing/pouring. That totally sucked because I didn't have an umbrella or hood. All in all it was a very good weekend!

*note* This picture was taken with my cell phone so that is why the quality is not the best.

Glass Blowing

2008-02-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

Last night a friend and I rented studio space at the Seattle Glass Blowing studio. We went in from 6 pm until 10 pm and practiced making balls, bowls and cups. It was amazing how much we remembered and figured out all on our own without our teacher there walking us through the steps. It was so much fun that we are going to do it again next week. I really feel that we made some great progress.

*note* Picture was from my third time ever blowing glass... that is my teacher Dave. He is an awesome teacher.

Well, here goes nothing...

2008-02-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Though I don’t have a family of my own and my life is not that exciting and I probably won’t have a lot to write about, Annelisa you have inspired me to start blogging. I am horrible at keeping in touch with people (including my family) and hopefully this will make it easier for people to know what is going on with my life even though we may not talk that often and hopefully I will be able to see what you all have been up to as well.

First I would like to start by saying that I love my family very much. Though I may not make all the right decisions and you may not agree with everything I do, I know you will always be there for me and support and love me no matter what. That means so much to me. I am sorry for all the pain I put you through and just know that I do understand how you feel but I am happy and who knows, maybe things will change someday but for right now I am ok with who I am.

To my sisters, this last Christmas was so fun with you being there. I didn’t realize how much I miss you guys. When you left I felt like I was all alone. You are the only people I can get mad at and be mean to and you still have to love me. I love that we can be fighting one minute and then the next laughing at something stupid. It feels good to know if I ever need anything no matter how long it’s been since we last saw each other or spoke that you will always be there for me. I love you both so much. You are my heroes and I wish we could talk and see each other more often.

To my brothers you are so fun to be around! You always make me laugh and we have so much fun annoying Mom at Sunday dinner. I love you guys and I know you are always there when I need you.

Mom and Dad- I love you so much. Thank you for all you do for me, for the unconditional love and patience. I know that I have hurt you both so much and that raising me was not always the easiest but you did an awesome job. Thank you for always being there for me and supporting me even when you didn’t want to. I appreciate you more than you know. You have always been such a great example to me of what I want out of life and I will get there someday. You are the best parents I could have ever hoped for.

Anthony I know that I am not easy to get along with or even live with. Thank you for being so patient with me and loving me no matter what. Thanks for laughing with me and going on walks and helping me try to figure out what I want out of life and helping me get there. I am so proud of all that you have accomplished. You are the smartest, funniest and most genuine person I know. I respect you so much for that. I love you more and more every day and I am so glad you are a part of my life.

I have 13 very cute nephews and nieces. They are so fun to be around and I wish I could see them more. They are Brandon, Emily, James, Jacob, Megan Lindsey, Nicholas, Hannah, Zachary Crookston, Haley, Callie, Katelyn Judi, and Matt and Riley. I can’t wait to watch them grow up and see who they become. I love them all very much and miss them.

Ok here is a little about myself…I recently moved to Seattle. I am literally a five minute walk to Downtown and a five minute walk to Capitol Hill. I love it here. I have the best view of Lake Union and the Space Needle. I live with my best friend and the person I love most, Anthony. I recently took up Glass Blowing. I have always wanted to do it. My mom took me to watch some people in Downtown Renton five or so years ago but it wasn’t until I moved to Seattle that I got my chance. I started with a weekend workshop (two days, four hours each day) at the Seattle Glassblowing Studio and I was hooked. I then went on to take two, six week courses (one day a week, four hours a day). Now that I am done with that I hope to continue. The next six week course starts in March. A friend I met through the class and myself are going to start renting studio time to practice. Our first attempt at assisting each other is tomorrow. I will let you know how that goes. Other than that my life is pretty normal and boring. I work Monday through Friday 7:30 to 4:30 as an Accounting assistant in Preston, WA. I like to run and hope to one day to be able to run a Marathon. I love to read and I love hanging out with my friends (which I don’t do enough). Also recently Anthony and I got our Motorcycle Endorsements and hope to get bikes that we can ride around Seattle. I also look foreword to getting to know Seattle better. I love walking around and seeing the sights and the people. It is so fun!!