For months now, I have been trying to figure out how to center the picture in the header of my blog. You'd think it was brain surgery or something! Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeez!
Well, heck, I finally figured it out. All I had to do was type some gobbledy-gook after the header jazz of the template and voila! Instant photo centering. The margin had to be zero auto or some crazy crap like that.
Why do they make it so difficult? I mean, they make blogging accessible to anyone, but then force you to get a degree in computer programming to do what you want with it. Why don't they just have a "center photo header" button you can click on in the template design? Wouldn't that simplify things for everyone? Dumb it down a bit!
Maybe the computer whizzes are actually running Blogger. Maybe that's why they do it - to make you feel like an incompetent idiot. That way, you finally give up and settle for a mediocre-looking blog rather than making it perty to look at. That's how they make you go nuts and eventually send you to the loony bin.
Too bad computer whizzes! You suckers didn't win this time! I figured out your nonsensical programming madness and centered my header picture! Take that! And I'm going to give out your secrets to others that want to center their header picture, too! Nice try getting my blog to suck! You lose, I win!!!
Whoa. Maybe I better admit myself to the loony bin, huh? Don't answer that. Geez!
9/30/10
9/29/10
Worth Watching
The video at this link is totally worth watching.
You can also copy or paste this address
(http://www.eastvalleyproductions.com/blog.cfm?postID=31)
to watch the video.
There are some breathtakingly beautiful pictures.
The music is very fitting and peaceful.
I'm truly blessed to have a Savior that loves me, watches over me, and paid a high price for me - all for a chance to return and be with Him again someday.
When nobody else loves me, I know He does.
One day, I hope to be like Him.
Until then, I hope I represent Him well.
I love Him.
9/24/10
Weirdos
Why do all the weirdos want to talk to me?
Before I lost weight, nobody ever approached me in a store. If I asked for help (i.e. where's the ...?) I would get a response, but strangers never approached me or talked to me.
The other night, I was at Walmart. I put some screen protectors in my cart and the guy in the electronics departments asked if I needed any help. Uh, no. I believe I already put the item in my cart, but thanks for checking?
Shortly after that, I looked in the camera section to price SD cards. In the process of looking for them, I found a free disc to edit photos, etc. I stood there looking at it and a guy came out of nowhere and asked if I needed help finding anything. When I mentioned the SD cards, he walked me over to them and asked about what size I wanted, how many gigs, etc. I said, "Oh, I'm only pricing them right now." He went on and on about how different cameras take different sizes and how I need to find out what my camera holds. Duh! I know what my camera takes; I wanted to price them - that's all.
What makes the whole scenario worse is that it's always the weirdos that approach me now. I kind of liked it better when nobody ever talked to me. :o)
The first guy was okay, but he kinda followed me around the department and eyed me. It was a little freaky. The second guy was okay, too, but he had terrible teeth and a high-pitched voice. Don't get me wrong - I'm not judging these boys/men/guys on their appearance, but it definitely adds to the weirdness of them "needing" to help me with something.
Why the weirdos?! Why can't it be the cute, sandy-haired, gorgeous smile, you're-a-hottie guy at Costco that asks if I need help with anything? And then why can't he follow me to the checkout, load up my cart, and offer to help me to my car with it? And then ask for my name and number and if I'm free on Friday night. Hee hee! Yeah, right. Like that kind of thing ever happens.
Don't I deserve better than the weirdos?
Before I lost weight, nobody ever approached me in a store. If I asked for help (i.e. where's the ...?) I would get a response, but strangers never approached me or talked to me.
The other night, I was at Walmart. I put some screen protectors in my cart and the guy in the electronics departments asked if I needed any help. Uh, no. I believe I already put the item in my cart, but thanks for checking?
Shortly after that, I looked in the camera section to price SD cards. In the process of looking for them, I found a free disc to edit photos, etc. I stood there looking at it and a guy came out of nowhere and asked if I needed help finding anything. When I mentioned the SD cards, he walked me over to them and asked about what size I wanted, how many gigs, etc. I said, "Oh, I'm only pricing them right now." He went on and on about how different cameras take different sizes and how I need to find out what my camera holds. Duh! I know what my camera takes; I wanted to price them - that's all.
What makes the whole scenario worse is that it's always the weirdos that approach me now. I kind of liked it better when nobody ever talked to me. :o)
The first guy was okay, but he kinda followed me around the department and eyed me. It was a little freaky. The second guy was okay, too, but he had terrible teeth and a high-pitched voice. Don't get me wrong - I'm not judging these boys/men/guys on their appearance, but it definitely adds to the weirdness of them "needing" to help me with something.
Why the weirdos?! Why can't it be the cute, sandy-haired, gorgeous smile, you're-a-hottie guy at Costco that asks if I need help with anything? And then why can't he follow me to the checkout, load up my cart, and offer to help me to my car with it? And then ask for my name and number and if I'm free on Friday night. Hee hee! Yeah, right. Like that kind of thing ever happens.
Don't I deserve better than the weirdos?
Apples and Onions
Don't ever put apples and onions in the same refrigerator drawer. I learned that lesson the hard way this week. Every apple I have eaten has had an onion aftertaste. Apples are one of my most favorite fruits, but that's kinda been soured this week.
The whole experience reminded me of the apples and onions analogy. In Young Women's (years ago), we had an object lesson where a bunch of apples and two onions were covered in caramel. The onions were the biggest of the bunch. We all selected which "apple" we wanted, and as we went to take a bite our leaders talked about how outward appearances don't always match what a person is like on the inside. The onions were the biggest and most round of the bunch. On the outside, they were covered with caramel-sweet goodness. But on the inside, they were onions - bitter, sour onions.
Luckily, those who took the onions didn't have to eat them. The treat, obviously, for that evening was carameled apples. They didn't taste quite as good as they would have before the object lesson, but the point was made. Things are not always what they appear to be. People are not always what we assume they are.
This week has been a reminder to be careful not to make assumptions about anything or anyone. Oh yes, and also to keep my onions out of the fruit drawer in the fridge.
The whole experience reminded me of the apples and onions analogy. In Young Women's (years ago), we had an object lesson where a bunch of apples and two onions were covered in caramel. The onions were the biggest of the bunch. We all selected which "apple" we wanted, and as we went to take a bite our leaders talked about how outward appearances don't always match what a person is like on the inside. The onions were the biggest and most round of the bunch. On the outside, they were covered with caramel-sweet goodness. But on the inside, they were onions - bitter, sour onions.
Luckily, those who took the onions didn't have to eat them. The treat, obviously, for that evening was carameled apples. They didn't taste quite as good as they would have before the object lesson, but the point was made. Things are not always what they appear to be. People are not always what we assume they are.
This week has been a reminder to be careful not to make assumptions about anything or anyone. Oh yes, and also to keep my onions out of the fruit drawer in the fridge.
9/22/10
Funny Hot Guy
Want to watch a funny show? Watch this show
With these funny people
And this hot guy
It only lasted two seasons, but the show is funny! Thank heavens I don't work in a lunatic workplace with a boss like Veronica (Portia). Honestly, I'd throw myself out the window if I had to deal with her. But it would be nice to have a cute, sensitive, single, do-what's-right guy there to look at. That might make the whole 8-5 thing worth it.
By the way, Veridian scares me because, well, I think it might actually be more true than anyone knows. I swear some of the things companies invent are actually made to torture us (i.e. high heels, nylons, belts, anything restrictive or uncomfortable), but they do it with an air of "You're gonna love this!" And sadly, we all buy into it because we really are convinced we're gonna love it. It frightens me just a little.
Then I look at pictures of Jay Harrington and suddenly I'm all better. Hm. It's amazing what a pretty face with a little 5 o'clock shadow will do for a girl.
9/20/10
Editing and Imaging
Started a new class today. They expect me to edit images. Ha! Crazy nuts.
Actually, this should be a really good experience. I'll have to take pictures, edit them, enhance them, etc. Since we're having some excellent colors this year on the mountains, it will be the perfect opportunity to hit the streets and get some shots of the beautifully colored leaves.
My final project for the course is one of the following: scrapbook photo album, one-year wall calendar (I think this sounds like the most fun), web photo gallery, collection of greeting cards, mural, movie poster, advertisement, or portfolio. Plus, it has to include a bunch of things that I have no idea about. Like a mask. What's a mask? That's something you wear on Halloween. Not something you do to a picture. Right?
Anyway, this should be an interesting class. And what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. At the end of nine weeks, I should be The Incredible Hulk!
(Let's just say I'm glad there's an "excuse" to take some pictures. I haven't had fun taking pictures for a long time!)
Actually, this should be a really good experience. I'll have to take pictures, edit them, enhance them, etc. Since we're having some excellent colors this year on the mountains, it will be the perfect opportunity to hit the streets and get some shots of the beautifully colored leaves.
My final project for the course is one of the following: scrapbook photo album, one-year wall calendar (I think this sounds like the most fun), web photo gallery, collection of greeting cards, mural, movie poster, advertisement, or portfolio. Plus, it has to include a bunch of things that I have no idea about. Like a mask. What's a mask? That's something you wear on Halloween. Not something you do to a picture. Right?
Anyway, this should be an interesting class. And what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. At the end of nine weeks, I should be The Incredible Hulk!
(Let's just say I'm glad there's an "excuse" to take some pictures. I haven't had fun taking pictures for a long time!)
9/16/10
Demographic Winter Trailer
This is a documentary in the works, and I hope to see the whole thing when it comes out. The first time I saw it, I was a little dumbfounded and speechless. The second time, I was in awe. Now, whenever I watch it, I find myself feeling anxious, worried, and a little angry.
We have been told as LDS church members that family is the most important institution. It is God's way of providing for his children on the earth. It is a divine organization, and marriage is the holiest of relationships a person can have in this life. I know all those things to be true.
What concerns me is that people are not marrying. Men are not asking women out on dates. They are taking the easy road, and "hanging out" rather than finding a woman to be with for eternity - a woman that will help them bring children to the earth and build Heavenly Father's kingdom. This is disconcerting. As a single woman, I know if I live my life according to God's ways I will be rewarded with a man in heaven who will be mine forever. Men are not guaranteed the same thing. If a man chooses not to marry in this life, he has no reward in the hereafter. That's scary enough in and of itself.
The scarier part to me is that by not marrying, they are deliberately choosing not to follow our Heavenly Father's directions. Does this mean they don't have a testimony of the truth? Or do they not understand it well enough to know it? Is it because of selfishness or pride? Or are the toys of the world (ATVs, motorcycles, video games, etc.) too enticing and too much fun? When will the realization hit that by not marrying and not having families we will destroy our earth financially, economically, and eventually push ourselves, in essence, into another dark ages? This is a scary thought.
Now, I know the Second Coming will come before another period of dark ages, but the ramifications of people not marrying and having families is going to have a huge impact on the way we live our lives. And I, for one, do not want any worthy man to be called up on the judgment day and have to hear that they are condemned for their choice not to marry (whether it's because of fear or pride or whatever else).
This video just reminded me how much is really wrong in the world today; how much our values are going down the toilet, how much selfishness (Satan's way of doing things) is taking over, and how lazy we've become in doing the difficult things. As one person, I can't change it. But I can change my outlook and the way I approach living. And you can bet it's been a real lesson that I have taken to heart.
9/15/10
Personal Accountability
This week's rant/soapbox/tangent: personal accountability.
When will people stop blaming everyone else for their problems and start taking some personal accountability?
If your attitude sucks, only YOU can change it.
If someone has done you wrong, only YOU can forgive them.
Only YOU can choose to be offended over what others say or do.
If you've been abused or mistreated, only YOU can choose to move past it.
If tragedy has happened in your life, only YOU can turn to God and ask for help.
Nobody else can determine how you feel or what you think or how you act. Those are personal choices - choices for which there is personal accountability.
So, stop blaming other people for your situation, stop being mean and ornery and taking out your issues on other people, and then learn how to forgive yourself for your lack of accountability and start taking action instead of reacting.
The only person who can make you miserable is YOU. Decide now not to let what others say or do determine what YOUR actions will be. For once, start being personally accountable.
Stepping down from the soapbox ... now.
When will people stop blaming everyone else for their problems and start taking some personal accountability?
If your attitude sucks, only YOU can change it.
If someone has done you wrong, only YOU can forgive them.
Only YOU can choose to be offended over what others say or do.
If you've been abused or mistreated, only YOU can choose to move past it.
If tragedy has happened in your life, only YOU can turn to God and ask for help.
Nobody else can determine how you feel or what you think or how you act. Those are personal choices - choices for which there is personal accountability.
So, stop blaming other people for your situation, stop being mean and ornery and taking out your issues on other people, and then learn how to forgive yourself for your lack of accountability and start taking action instead of reacting.
The only person who can make you miserable is YOU. Decide now not to let what others say or do determine what YOUR actions will be. For once, start being personally accountable.
Stepping down from the soapbox ... now.
9/14/10
The Future
Sometimes I think it would be cool to see into the future and know what's going to happen.
Then, I watch shows like:
"The Dead Zone" and realize ... uh, not so cool!
had seen the future, she'd have known how awful that haircut is and would have selected a much better look. :o)
All kidding aside, knowing the future would alleviate a lot of fears or concerns and give me some definite sense of direction. On the flip (and negative) side, would most of us really want to go on with life if we knew some of what our futures held? Probably not.
This makes me feel such great sympathy for Nephi and Moroni and other prophets who were allowed to see future posterity. To see your people kill each other and witness the end of the world and all the destruction - that's gotta suck something royal. I have great appreciation for those who saw future generations and calamities and lived to tell about it so we could read it today.
Guess I'll stop wishing away the present and enjoy it for what it is - a gift.
Then, I watch shows like:
"The Dead Zone" and realize ... uh, not so cool!
Of course, if she
All kidding aside, knowing the future would alleviate a lot of fears or concerns and give me some definite sense of direction. On the flip (and negative) side, would most of us really want to go on with life if we knew some of what our futures held? Probably not.
This makes me feel such great sympathy for Nephi and Moroni and other prophets who were allowed to see future posterity. To see your people kill each other and witness the end of the world and all the destruction - that's gotta suck something royal. I have great appreciation for those who saw future generations and calamities and lived to tell about it so we could read it today.
Guess I'll stop wishing away the present and enjoy it for what it is - a gift.
9/13/10
Me got smarts!
First of all, Comcast is stupid and totally sucks. Their customer service also rates about that high.
Second, our router bit the dust. Stupid Linksys.
Third, we went with a NetGear router - and it paid off.
Fourth, I hooked up a home network on Friday night. Booyah! Me got smarts!
Here's the thing. I am not computer savvy at all. Nor am I a techie who understands the finite and intricate details of what a computer can or should do. I just envy those who do all that junk AND get paid for it. Geniuses!
But, I can read directions, and I LOVE putting things together. (Ask my sis-in-law Allyson about this. She was freaking out one Sunday night when they came over and I was putting together a TV stand for my parents without swearing, wailing, and gnashing of teeth.) In fact, I'm looking for a new entertainment center to buy myself for Christmas/Tax Return Deposit Day (yay!) and I am specifically looking for one I can put together myself. THAT is entertainment before being entertained.
So, I did it. I rigged a network. I even hooked up Dad's computer to the internet. (Sorry, Mom.) And my laptop and my netbook both get access much better than they did. And Netflix - what can I say? It's SO nice to watch a show without multiple interruptions!
Now, I need one of those computer savvy, techie people to tell me what kind of color (?) laser printer I should invest in. It looks like Brother and Canon are getting better reviews than HP or Samsung, but what the heck do I know? I'm tired of inkjet printers because they use up so dang much ink. For all the ink you buy with those, you could have three laser printers!
Basically, I'm proud of myself for getting our house hopping again.
And should you ever need to call Comcast for help, well, stop yourself before you dial. "Ma'am, because your router is a NetGear brand and Comcast does not support NetGear, you will need to contact them directly or use their online support." Duh!!! Don't you think I would have gone to them in the first place if my freaking internet connection had been working so I COULD access their online support?! There are obviously ZERO geniuses working with the finite and intricate details of computers at Comcast customer service. Whatever they're getting paid, it's too freaking much!
Second, our router bit the dust. Stupid Linksys.
Third, we went with a NetGear router - and it paid off.
Fourth, I hooked up a home network on Friday night. Booyah! Me got smarts!
Here's the thing. I am not computer savvy at all. Nor am I a techie who understands the finite and intricate details of what a computer can or should do. I just envy those who do all that junk AND get paid for it. Geniuses!
But, I can read directions, and I LOVE putting things together. (Ask my sis-in-law Allyson about this. She was freaking out one Sunday night when they came over and I was putting together a TV stand for my parents without swearing, wailing, and gnashing of teeth.) In fact, I'm looking for a new entertainment center to buy myself for Christmas/Tax Return Deposit Day (yay!) and I am specifically looking for one I can put together myself. THAT is entertainment before being entertained.
So, I did it. I rigged a network. I even hooked up Dad's computer to the internet. (Sorry, Mom.) And my laptop and my netbook both get access much better than they did. And Netflix - what can I say? It's SO nice to watch a show without multiple interruptions!
Now, I need one of those computer savvy, techie people to tell me what kind of color (?) laser printer I should invest in. It looks like Brother and Canon are getting better reviews than HP or Samsung, but what the heck do I know? I'm tired of inkjet printers because they use up so dang much ink. For all the ink you buy with those, you could have three laser printers!
Basically, I'm proud of myself for getting our house hopping again.
And should you ever need to call Comcast for help, well, stop yourself before you dial. "Ma'am, because your router is a NetGear brand and Comcast does not support NetGear, you will need to contact them directly or use their online support." Duh!!! Don't you think I would have gone to them in the first place if my freaking internet connection had been working so I COULD access their online support?! There are obviously ZERO geniuses working with the finite and intricate details of computers at Comcast customer service. Whatever they're getting paid, it's too freaking much!
9/8/10
Furry Friend
My great-niece, Paityn, spent some time at our house yesterday because her mom is in training 12 hours a day for four days this week on a new job.
This is Paityn:
Paityn is a handful, to say the least. She's nearly 1 1/2, so she's into everything and wants to investigate (aka pull things out of cupboards and off of shelves). She's also very cute, so it's difficult to get upset with her.
Paityn and Bear have always liked each other. She has never been afraid of Bear, and he's always been very gentle with her. But now that Paityn is bigger than Bear, she likes to tease him. Mom said she spent much of the afternoon yesterday taking away Bear's food. Um, you don't mess with Bear's food - that's all I'm gonna say about that.
Anyway, I guess Bear finally got upset over it and nipped at Paityn. It scared her. Mom said she really cried over it. But, apparently they made up because she was playing with him again a short time later. Although, I think she figured out that messing with his food was the cause of their problems.
When I got home from work last night, Bear was fit to be tied. He knows how to tell time (not a lie), and at five o'clock sharp he sits by the door or puts his head through the stairs banister and waits for me to get home. When I'm late or have to run errands and get delayed, he thinks something is wrong and drives Mom crazy. We used to laugh about it, but try not to so much anymore because it's obviously important business to Bear that I get home on time.
After his day with Paityn, Bear needed some lovin'. He usually follows me everywhere once I get home, and last night was no exception. At one point, I sensed he wasn't around and figured he went upstairs to hang with Mom. I went in my bedroom to change into jeans before I fixed dinner and this is what I saw:
Bear was hiding under the bed. I guess he thought Paityn was coming back. Either that, or he just needed some quiet time. How cute is that?!
He has an aversion to the camera, so I snapped a shot as quickly as I could. He heard the noise my iPhone makes, and crept out on his belly from under the bed. Since he looked so forlorn, I laid on my stomach and talked to him, at which point I snapped this photo:
He realized I caught him on camera, and that's when he got sulky so this is what he looked like as we were head to head and I talked to him:
The poor thing! I tried to comfort him. Finally, I offered up some string cheese and he followed me into the kitchen.
Whoever says animals don't have personality needs to come to my house. My dog will prove them wrong. He definitely has personality! I just wish he could talk in human (and English) sometimes so I knew exactly what he was thinking. Until then, I'm learning to read his actions, and I've learned that string cheese is almost a cure-all.
This is Paityn:
Paityn is a handful, to say the least. She's nearly 1 1/2, so she's into everything and wants to investigate (aka pull things out of cupboards and off of shelves). She's also very cute, so it's difficult to get upset with her.
Paityn and Bear have always liked each other. She has never been afraid of Bear, and he's always been very gentle with her. But now that Paityn is bigger than Bear, she likes to tease him. Mom said she spent much of the afternoon yesterday taking away Bear's food. Um, you don't mess with Bear's food - that's all I'm gonna say about that.
Anyway, I guess Bear finally got upset over it and nipped at Paityn. It scared her. Mom said she really cried over it. But, apparently they made up because she was playing with him again a short time later. Although, I think she figured out that messing with his food was the cause of their problems.
When I got home from work last night, Bear was fit to be tied. He knows how to tell time (not a lie), and at five o'clock sharp he sits by the door or puts his head through the stairs banister and waits for me to get home. When I'm late or have to run errands and get delayed, he thinks something is wrong and drives Mom crazy. We used to laugh about it, but try not to so much anymore because it's obviously important business to Bear that I get home on time.
After his day with Paityn, Bear needed some lovin'. He usually follows me everywhere once I get home, and last night was no exception. At one point, I sensed he wasn't around and figured he went upstairs to hang with Mom. I went in my bedroom to change into jeans before I fixed dinner and this is what I saw:
He has an aversion to the camera, so I snapped a shot as quickly as I could. He heard the noise my iPhone makes, and crept out on his belly from under the bed. Since he looked so forlorn, I laid on my stomach and talked to him, at which point I snapped this photo:
Whoever says animals don't have personality needs to come to my house. My dog will prove them wrong. He definitely has personality! I just wish he could talk in human (and English) sometimes so I knew exactly what he was thinking. Until then, I'm learning to read his actions, and I've learned that string cheese is almost a cure-all.
9/7/10
Fall Favorites
Fall is my favorite season. I learned over the weekend that it's Mom's favorite season, too. When I tried to explain why fall is my favorite season, Mom finally put a word to it that makes sense. Fall is sensual to me. It's not sensual in a naughty way. Rather, it's exciting to my senses. I thought it would be fun to jot down my fall favorites. In no particular order.
Fall colors - I love when the leaves in the mountain make it look like it's on fire. The reds, oranges, and yellows just glisten in the sunlight. This year might actually be a good one for color, too, since we had such a wet June.
Football - It doesn't matter who is playing or whether it's college or pro. It's fun to snuggle up on the couch with a warm, fuzzy blanket and fall asleep to the sounds of a football game.
Farmer's Market - For some reason, it's so much fun to go to the local farmer's market and check out all the produce. We went last Saturday, and oh my! There was SO much stuff. Mom started to get overwhelmed. Neither one of us does well in large crowds. But it was great to walk by all the fresh produce and take in the colors and smells. Yum!
Corn on the cob - Don't need to say more on that one!
Peaches - Oh how I love peaches! I eat them sliced with a little heavy cream and some Almond milk poured over the top. It's a most delicious treat!
Homemade soups and stews - I am not a soup person. BUT, I love a good homemade soup (like broccoli, cauliflower, and cheese) and a homemade vegetable beef stew that has simmered all day with leftover Sunday roast. Mmm, mmm, mmm!!! Oh yeah. There's also the stew you cook in a pumpkin. It's one of my most favorite meals, and we usually only eat it once a year - if/when I cook it on Halloween.
Popcorn - The smell, divine. The taste, delicious. In all its varieties, I love popcorn! This is a newly acquired fall favorite. I used to hate popcorn. It's quickly becoming one of my favorite things.
Tomatoes - Nothing beats a really red tomato fresh from the garden. On a sandwich, in a salad, just plain on a plate with some salt. I really don't care how we eat them. They are so darn good!
Sounds - Crunchy leaves under your feet, the rustle of the wind and leaves in the air, how crisp everything seems. It's like my senses are heightened tenfold and I hear and see things that the other seasons just don't offer.
Sunsets - I've never been a morning person. Don't think I ever will be. Sunsets are so different from sunrises. A sunrise, to me, brings anxiety - lots of things to do for the day. A sunset, though, makes me feel peaceful. Relaxed, quiet, thoughtful. There's something about the day going to sleep that makes me feel calm and subdued. And Utah has, by far, some of the most amazing sunsets in the entire world!
Smells - These can't even be described. I don't know that many words. There is something about the air that is filled with aroma. It's like an addictive spice or something. You want to keep smelling it over and over again. Or a favorite candle that you light often. It's a smell you almost crave.
Corn mazes - These are so romantic to me! I don't know why getting lost in a field of dry corn is romantic. It makes no sense to talk about it, but corn mazes make me feel giddy. If a guy asked me out and we went to a corn maze, I'd probably fall in love with him. If a guy asked me to marry him in a corn maze - well, that would take the cake!
There are a lot of other fall favorites in my opinion. Christmas might be my favorite holiday, but fall is definitely my favorite season. I'm so glad it's here!
Fall colors - I love when the leaves in the mountain make it look like it's on fire. The reds, oranges, and yellows just glisten in the sunlight. This year might actually be a good one for color, too, since we had such a wet June.
Football - It doesn't matter who is playing or whether it's college or pro. It's fun to snuggle up on the couch with a warm, fuzzy blanket and fall asleep to the sounds of a football game.
Farmer's Market - For some reason, it's so much fun to go to the local farmer's market and check out all the produce. We went last Saturday, and oh my! There was SO much stuff. Mom started to get overwhelmed. Neither one of us does well in large crowds. But it was great to walk by all the fresh produce and take in the colors and smells. Yum!
Corn on the cob - Don't need to say more on that one!
Peaches - Oh how I love peaches! I eat them sliced with a little heavy cream and some Almond milk poured over the top. It's a most delicious treat!
Homemade soups and stews - I am not a soup person. BUT, I love a good homemade soup (like broccoli, cauliflower, and cheese) and a homemade vegetable beef stew that has simmered all day with leftover Sunday roast. Mmm, mmm, mmm!!! Oh yeah. There's also the stew you cook in a pumpkin. It's one of my most favorite meals, and we usually only eat it once a year - if/when I cook it on Halloween.
Popcorn - The smell, divine. The taste, delicious. In all its varieties, I love popcorn! This is a newly acquired fall favorite. I used to hate popcorn. It's quickly becoming one of my favorite things.
Tomatoes - Nothing beats a really red tomato fresh from the garden. On a sandwich, in a salad, just plain on a plate with some salt. I really don't care how we eat them. They are so darn good!
Sounds - Crunchy leaves under your feet, the rustle of the wind and leaves in the air, how crisp everything seems. It's like my senses are heightened tenfold and I hear and see things that the other seasons just don't offer.
Sunsets - I've never been a morning person. Don't think I ever will be. Sunsets are so different from sunrises. A sunrise, to me, brings anxiety - lots of things to do for the day. A sunset, though, makes me feel peaceful. Relaxed, quiet, thoughtful. There's something about the day going to sleep that makes me feel calm and subdued. And Utah has, by far, some of the most amazing sunsets in the entire world!
Smells - These can't even be described. I don't know that many words. There is something about the air that is filled with aroma. It's like an addictive spice or something. You want to keep smelling it over and over again. Or a favorite candle that you light often. It's a smell you almost crave.
Corn mazes - These are so romantic to me! I don't know why getting lost in a field of dry corn is romantic. It makes no sense to talk about it, but corn mazes make me feel giddy. If a guy asked me out and we went to a corn maze, I'd probably fall in love with him. If a guy asked me to marry him in a corn maze - well, that would take the cake!
There are a lot of other fall favorites in my opinion. Christmas might be my favorite holiday, but fall is definitely my favorite season. I'm so glad it's here!
9/3/10
Ah, the 90's
I've written before about the awesomeness of Netflix. It's still awesome. :o)
Lately, I've been watching "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman", and it's SO 90's! Even the DVD covers are 90's:
I'm still in love with Dean Cain. He was a totally hot Clark Kent/Superman. All ripped and muscle-y. Yowsa! And Teri Hatcher ain't so bad to look at either (even though I hate most pretty, skinny girls).
The thing that cracks me up is I was addicted to this show. I waited for it all week long and was sad when that hour of television ended. Every time Dean Cain had his shirt off, I felt all giddy inside. (It still kinda makes me feel that way. Shh!) It was a "catch your breath" kind of effect every time that hotness came on the screen. (The bigger secret is that I thought Clark Kent was hotter than Superman. Something about a hot dude in glasses with loads of brains and good morals. Don't tell!)
Anyway, while I've watched it on Netflix, I realized how cool the visual effects must have been in the 90's. The characters were excited about having fax machines, email, and carrying HUGE cell phones. It's so fun to go back in time a bit and see what was popular when I was in high school. I'm amazed at some of the fashions (ick!) and the hairstyles that were popular. You can bet I probably wore some of that junk. Or had my hair "styled" in something fashionable. Ten bucks my high school yearbook has some peeps dressed in the same gear and wearing their hair that way.
The nice thing is that Dean Cain is still some hot eye candy.
I didn't see a wedding band in any of those photos. Just sayin'. Guess old crushes die hard, huh? Thank you, Netflix, for the flashbacks, and for giving me a little something (someone) to drool over.
Lately, I've been watching "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman", and it's SO 90's! Even the DVD covers are 90's:
The thing that cracks me up is I was addicted to this show. I waited for it all week long and was sad when that hour of television ended. Every time Dean Cain had his shirt off, I felt all giddy inside. (It still kinda makes me feel that way. Shh!) It was a "catch your breath" kind of effect every time that hotness came on the screen. (The bigger secret is that I thought Clark Kent was hotter than Superman. Something about a hot dude in glasses with loads of brains and good morals. Don't tell!)
Anyway, while I've watched it on Netflix, I realized how cool the visual effects must have been in the 90's. The characters were excited about having fax machines, email, and carrying HUGE cell phones. It's so fun to go back in time a bit and see what was popular when I was in high school. I'm amazed at some of the fashions (ick!) and the hairstyles that were popular. You can bet I probably wore some of that junk. Or had my hair "styled" in something fashionable. Ten bucks my high school yearbook has some peeps dressed in the same gear and wearing their hair that way.
The nice thing is that Dean Cain is still some hot eye candy.
9/2/10
Naptime
There should be a set time for naps at work. Everyone should get a little futon in their cubicle where they can curl up and have a siesta. Other countries do it. I'm just sayin'.
After all, wouldn't I be more productive if I were actually awake and coherent while sitting at the computer? Silly me. Guess that's just crazy talk!
After all, wouldn't I be more productive if I were actually awake and coherent while sitting at the computer? Silly me. Guess that's just crazy talk!
9/1/10
It's nice to be loved
While I laid on the couch totally incapacitated on Sunday night and all day Monday, Bear stuck it out and showed how much he loves me. This is what we looked like:
Bear slept with his head on my feet. This is how we sleep a lot at night, too. He gets in the crook of my knees and hangs out there all night. Sometimes I kick him off of me because, for a small animal, he generates a LOT of heat. I didn't mind it so much this time because he actually kept my feet warm. No need for a blanket!
He kept inching closer and closer to me. The poor thing! I think he knew I was sick and he wanted to take care of me, but didn't know how other than to cuddle with me and keep me warm. Or maybe he was just plain lazy and didn't feel like moving. Nah.
All I can say is it's nice to be loved. Especially when you're sick and you've bonded with the Porcelain God and probably don't smell the greatest or look your best. That's unconditional love, my friends. (So what if I had to "buy" some of that love with cheese?! It's worth it!)
He kept inching closer and closer to me. The poor thing! I think he knew I was sick and he wanted to take care of me, but didn't know how other than to cuddle with me and keep me warm. Or maybe he was just plain lazy and didn't feel like moving. Nah.
All I can say is it's nice to be loved. Especially when you're sick and you've bonded with the Porcelain God and probably don't smell the greatest or look your best. That's unconditional love, my friends. (So what if I had to "buy" some of that love with cheese?! It's worth it!)
8/31/10
Best. Concert. Ever.
I'll post more later, including pictures, but the Michael Buble concert was the best! Ever!
He sang all the best songs, the opening (Cry Me A River) was A-mazing, and the encore was SO cool! It was totally worth every penny, and I really hope I get to go again some time. Maybe with a significant other? Hm. Have to work on that.
There was a couple that sat right by us that was from Loa, Utah. They were LDS, and were there to celebrate her birthday. What a good husband to take his wife to see Michael Buble for her birthday, huh? I thought it was very romantic and cute.
We had a wonderful trip. The only bad part was the food poisoning I ended up with after eating at Del Taco. It was probably because we broke the Sabbath - twice. Oh man! We just didn't have time to think about food for Sunday, so we ate at Denny's that morning and then stopped at Del Taco in Cedar City for lunch. That was the doozie! Nobody else (to my knowledge) got sick from it, so I think it must have been the sour cream or the tomatoes that were on my taco. Needless to say, I won't be eating there again any time soon. Which is unfortunate because I really love Del Taco's food! No more macho tacos for this chic in the near future. Bummer!
Other than that, we had a great trip. We did some serious shopping (I found a pair of Lucky jeans - yay!), and had lots of fun together. I just wish we could have eaten at a nice restaurant on Saturday night, but the Philly Cheese Steaks and hot dogs at Nathan's tasted pretty good.
I'll be online in the next couple of months to find out what (if any) tour dates are available next year. And I think I'll be saving my pennies so I can go see Michael Buble again. If I didn't have to work a full-time job, I think I'd be one of his groupies.
He sang all the best songs, the opening (Cry Me A River) was A-mazing, and the encore was SO cool! It was totally worth every penny, and I really hope I get to go again some time. Maybe with a significant other? Hm. Have to work on that.
There was a couple that sat right by us that was from Loa, Utah. They were LDS, and were there to celebrate her birthday. What a good husband to take his wife to see Michael Buble for her birthday, huh? I thought it was very romantic and cute.
We had a wonderful trip. The only bad part was the food poisoning I ended up with after eating at Del Taco. It was probably because we broke the Sabbath - twice. Oh man! We just didn't have time to think about food for Sunday, so we ate at Denny's that morning and then stopped at Del Taco in Cedar City for lunch. That was the doozie! Nobody else (to my knowledge) got sick from it, so I think it must have been the sour cream or the tomatoes that were on my taco. Needless to say, I won't be eating there again any time soon. Which is unfortunate because I really love Del Taco's food! No more macho tacos for this chic in the near future. Bummer!
Other than that, we had a great trip. We did some serious shopping (I found a pair of Lucky jeans - yay!), and had lots of fun together. I just wish we could have eaten at a nice restaurant on Saturday night, but the Philly Cheese Steaks and hot dogs at Nathan's tasted pretty good.
I'll be online in the next couple of months to find out what (if any) tour dates are available next year. And I think I'll be saving my pennies so I can go see Michael Buble again. If I didn't have to work a full-time job, I think I'd be one of his groupies.
8/26/10
My kind of woman
Every Sunday, when I was little, my mom would take meals to an older couple in our ward. They were home bound and couldn't even get out to come to church. Mom found out about their situation and arranged to take two plates of whatever we had for Sunday dinner over to them. I vaguely remember going with her a couple of times. At that age, I was afraid of "old people", although they couldn't have been much older than my grandparents.
Anyway, there was one Sunday (Mom tells the story better) where a lot was going on. We had unexpected company or too much going on after church or something. Somehow, in all of the confusion, Mom completely forgot to take their meal to them. Later in the evening, Mom was jolted out of her seat as she realized they had not eaten. She put together a meal for them, and nearing tears, walked the two meager plates across the street.
When Mom got there, the couple was waiting patiently at their kitchen table. She asked if they had eaten; they replied no. Then, she asked why they hadn't called to remind her. Their reply: "We just figured you got busy, but we knew you would eventually remember and come to see us." Mom was mortified - to say the least. She has recounted this story many times, and I think she may even still feel some guilt about it. She has jokingly said when she gets to the other side that they will meet her and her recollection of that day will be what condemns her to hell. That's my mom!
Mom is still my kind of woman though. After all, who else in the ward was taking in meals every week? Who else was thinking of them when they made Sunday dinner? Who else had their kids deliver the meals often so they had a service experience? Who else made two old people happy by providing a meal and a visit and someone to talk to?
I want to be that kind of woman. I want to visit the elderly with meals and treats and be someone they can talk to. I want to teach my children how to serve by being an example of service - and by expecting nothing in return. I want to share with others and do things out of the ordinary that are simple and yet appreciated. And I don't want any credit or thanks or grand hoopla for doing it. In fact, keeping it anonymous would be great. That's the kind of woman I aspire to be. I should start now, but I find a million excuses (I don't have time, I have homework, etc.) and none of them are good enough to excuse me from doing something nice for someone else for no reason at all. I guess I just don't want to be kept out of heaven because I took the easy way out by serving myself. And I guess I also want to prove the cynics wrong - people really will do nice things for others just because they can.
Anyway, there was one Sunday (Mom tells the story better) where a lot was going on. We had unexpected company or too much going on after church or something. Somehow, in all of the confusion, Mom completely forgot to take their meal to them. Later in the evening, Mom was jolted out of her seat as she realized they had not eaten. She put together a meal for them, and nearing tears, walked the two meager plates across the street.
When Mom got there, the couple was waiting patiently at their kitchen table. She asked if they had eaten; they replied no. Then, she asked why they hadn't called to remind her. Their reply: "We just figured you got busy, but we knew you would eventually remember and come to see us." Mom was mortified - to say the least. She has recounted this story many times, and I think she may even still feel some guilt about it. She has jokingly said when she gets to the other side that they will meet her and her recollection of that day will be what condemns her to hell. That's my mom!
Mom is still my kind of woman though. After all, who else in the ward was taking in meals every week? Who else was thinking of them when they made Sunday dinner? Who else had their kids deliver the meals often so they had a service experience? Who else made two old people happy by providing a meal and a visit and someone to talk to?
I want to be that kind of woman. I want to visit the elderly with meals and treats and be someone they can talk to. I want to teach my children how to serve by being an example of service - and by expecting nothing in return. I want to share with others and do things out of the ordinary that are simple and yet appreciated. And I don't want any credit or thanks or grand hoopla for doing it. In fact, keeping it anonymous would be great. That's the kind of woman I aspire to be. I should start now, but I find a million excuses (I don't have time, I have homework, etc.) and none of them are good enough to excuse me from doing something nice for someone else for no reason at all. I guess I just don't want to be kept out of heaven because I took the easy way out by serving myself. And I guess I also want to prove the cynics wrong - people really will do nice things for others just because they can.
I might be a foodie
One of my favorite pastimes was watching the Food Network. That's where I learned to cook. Mom was always so busy by the time I was old enough to cook that we never had lessons. Everything was "open a can and throw it on the stove" or "follow the directions on the box", so most of my college years were spent eating Ramen Noodles or Spaghetti with butter and salt. I don't blame Mom for my lack of culinary expertise. And actually, I've realized that I probably wouldn't have been a good student for her if she'd had the time to teach me.
However, I think I've become a foodie. Or a food junkie. But not a junk foodie. Yeah, whatever. Anyway, I previously posted about Chicken Tikka Masala. And the quiche I made. Last night, I made Chicken Tikka Masala and shared it with Mom and Dad and David. It was a good meal! Mom and I both agreed it tasted really good, but it's not one of those things we would crave. We'd probably order it at a restaurant, and we'd definitely eat it again if it were put in front of us, but it's not something we would long for. I can't even think of a food I'd long for anymore. In my previous life, I definitely could have said ice cream or cookies or something like that. But I just don't have food cravings anymore. It's a good thing! Definitely not sad about it.
So this is what the quiche ended up looking like:
And I also got pictures of the Chicken Tikka Masala. It didn't turn out quite as orange as I thought it would, which is a good thing.
As a bonus, Mom went visiting teaching and got some free (and fresh - right off the tree) peaches. Boy howdy! I'm an addict!!! Peaches are one of my most favorite foods. They're lots better if someone will peel them and slice them for you - duh! Mom peeled and sliced them for us. She gave Dad a bowl with some milk over them, and then she had some in a bowl with some unsweetened Almond milk (a new favorite at our house). They were so juicy and sweet and delicious. David told Mom to get her September visiting teaching done early (meaning today) so that we could have more peaches. There's a fruit stand about a mile from where I work, and I think I'll be visiting there soon to get some more peaches. Yum!
However, I think I've become a foodie. Or a food junkie. But not a junk foodie. Yeah, whatever. Anyway, I previously posted about Chicken Tikka Masala. And the quiche I made. Last night, I made Chicken Tikka Masala and shared it with Mom and Dad and David. It was a good meal! Mom and I both agreed it tasted really good, but it's not one of those things we would crave. We'd probably order it at a restaurant, and we'd definitely eat it again if it were put in front of us, but it's not something we would long for. I can't even think of a food I'd long for anymore. In my previous life, I definitely could have said ice cream or cookies or something like that. But I just don't have food cravings anymore. It's a good thing! Definitely not sad about it.
So this is what the quiche ended up looking like:
8/25/10
I made something French!
For the heck of it, I decided yesterday afternoon that I wanted to learn to make a quiche. That's right, people! Even though the French people aren't "friendly" with Americans, their food is pretty good stuff.
So, I did some digging online and learned that quiche is made in a pie crust. Boo! I don't eat those kind of hip-hugging carbs anymore; disappointment set in quickly. And then - voila! (Is that a French word?) I found a recipe where you could make quiche without the crust. Yippee!
What did I do? I made a trip to Smith's and bought out the store! Okay, not really, but I spent a nice chunk of money on some groceries (that I'll be eating for the next two weeks). Then, I went home and started chopping.
*Sidenote: there's a commercial on TV for Lean Cuisine (I think) that says something about "Dicing and chopping is so relaxing" and then it says "Yeah, right", etc. I'm not one to get offended, but this commercial bugs me because there really are people (me) who like to dice and chop and really cook a good meal - even after a long day at work. Sidenote over.*
Everything but the kitchen sink later, I ended up with a delicious and tasty quiche that was even tastier for breakfast this morning. When I took one up (yes, I made two quiches - hm, is that really the plural?) last night to Mom, she and David both liked it. My mind started whirring and I blurted out, "I bet it would be really good with hamburger, Mexican tomatoes, green chilies, and corn!" Yes, this is really how I cook. Just throwing stuff in a pan and hoping it tastes like something edible when I'm done.
So, I think my next adventure with quiche will be making one with Mexican flair. Tonight, though, I'm making the Chicken Tikka Masala I talked about in my last post. And I'm going to sweeten it up a bit (aka: reduce the "torch my mouth and pray for ice cream later" feeling) with some coconut milk. Since I don't eat rice, I'm not sure what I'll put it over. Or under. Or whatever. Maybe a whole wheat tortilla? Hm.
And I need to remember to take pictures of my cooking experiments. Some of them might actually be worth looking at and going gaga over. If not, they'll at least be a good lesson in what NOT to do when cooking. In the meantime, let it be known that I actually did make something French!
So, I did some digging online and learned that quiche is made in a pie crust. Boo! I don't eat those kind of hip-hugging carbs anymore; disappointment set in quickly. And then - voila! (Is that a French word?) I found a recipe where you could make quiche without the crust. Yippee!
What did I do? I made a trip to Smith's and bought out the store! Okay, not really, but I spent a nice chunk of money on some groceries (that I'll be eating for the next two weeks). Then, I went home and started chopping.
*Sidenote: there's a commercial on TV for Lean Cuisine (I think) that says something about "Dicing and chopping is so relaxing" and then it says "Yeah, right", etc. I'm not one to get offended, but this commercial bugs me because there really are people (me) who like to dice and chop and really cook a good meal - even after a long day at work. Sidenote over.*
Everything but the kitchen sink later, I ended up with a delicious and tasty quiche that was even tastier for breakfast this morning. When I took one up (yes, I made two quiches - hm, is that really the plural?) last night to Mom, she and David both liked it. My mind started whirring and I blurted out, "I bet it would be really good with hamburger, Mexican tomatoes, green chilies, and corn!" Yes, this is really how I cook. Just throwing stuff in a pan and hoping it tastes like something edible when I'm done.
So, I think my next adventure with quiche will be making one with Mexican flair. Tonight, though, I'm making the Chicken Tikka Masala I talked about in my last post. And I'm going to sweeten it up a bit (aka: reduce the "torch my mouth and pray for ice cream later" feeling) with some coconut milk. Since I don't eat rice, I'm not sure what I'll put it over. Or under. Or whatever. Maybe a whole wheat tortilla? Hm.
And I need to remember to take pictures of my cooking experiments. Some of them might actually be worth looking at and going gaga over. If not, they'll at least be a good lesson in what NOT to do when cooking. In the meantime, let it be known that I actually did make something French!
8/24/10
Every So Often
Every so often (about every two years), I get an "itch" to switch things up. As in: buy a new car. Currently, I drive a Honda Accord like this one:
Every so often, I crave trying new foods. Lots of people have told me I need to try Chicken Tikka Masala. The problem is, it's orange, like this:
Not that I have an "aversion" to orange foods (my mom has an "aversion" to blue foods unless it's blueberries), but this color of orange does not look so tasty. Plus, the last time I ate Indian food (by the way, nobody really knows where Chicken Tikka Masala originated, but some say it was in Britain - go figure) my mouth was on fire from hot curry for days - DAYS! I'm all for spice, but I think you should be able to taste other things when you're done with the hot and spicy. You shouldn't breathe fire days later, unless, of course, you're a fire-breathing dragon.
Every so often, I like to be a little kid again and watch cartoons in my pajamas on a Saturday morning. It's not quite like the "good ol' days" when Tom & Jerry and Garfield were on, but this will do:
Or this:
Or this:
In fact, my nephew, Andrew, and niece, Amanda, were staying with us a couple of nights last week. One night, we went on a walk and did some work at a friend's house that I was "sitting" while she was away. When we got home, I fixed us all dinner and we watched four or five episodes of SpongeBob. I would laugh (hysterically, if it was warranted) at the show, and every time I did Andrew looked at me with this look of complete awe on his face. Finally, he said, "I can't believe you like SpongeBob." Hey, you don't have to grow up. So what if I'm old and still like to watch cartoons?
Every so often, I wish I had the guts to write a really important letter to someone and tell them my innermost thoughts and feelings. But I don't do it because I'm a scaredy-cat and don't know how it will be received. Instead, I agonize over it because I know I should write it and the response probably won't be anything like what I expect it to be. I wish fears wouldn't get the best of me and that I could just say, "I don't care what the response will be. I'm writing this because it needs to be said and I can't move forward until I get it off my chest." Maybe one day I'll be able to do that and be courageous and not care.
Every so often, I wish life were easier and that "someone" would lay out the life plan for me because I'd happily oblige and do whatever the plan said. *sigh*
So that I can buy something like a Toyota Prius and save the universe with my economic and gas-friendly hybrid. Like this one:
But then, I think about how much I love my leather seats, seat heaters, sun roof, six CD player, and general feel and smell of my lovely Honda. I owned a Honda previously, and then traded it in for a Toyota Camry. HUGE mistake. Not that I don't like driving a Camry, but there's just something about my Honda that gives me the "this is my car" feeling. The Camry never felt that way. And I obviously had no attachment to the Camry because I never named it. Silverado is too lovely to part with! 
Every so often, I crave trying new foods. Lots of people have told me I need to try Chicken Tikka Masala. The problem is, it's orange, like this:
Every so often, I like to be a little kid again and watch cartoons in my pajamas on a Saturday morning. It's not quite like the "good ol' days" when Tom & Jerry and Garfield were on, but this will do:
In fact, my nephew, Andrew, and niece, Amanda, were staying with us a couple of nights last week. One night, we went on a walk and did some work at a friend's house that I was "sitting" while she was away. When we got home, I fixed us all dinner and we watched four or five episodes of SpongeBob. I would laugh (hysterically, if it was warranted) at the show, and every time I did Andrew looked at me with this look of complete awe on his face. Finally, he said, "I can't believe you like SpongeBob." Hey, you don't have to grow up. So what if I'm old and still like to watch cartoons?
Every so often, I wish I had the guts to write a really important letter to someone and tell them my innermost thoughts and feelings. But I don't do it because I'm a scaredy-cat and don't know how it will be received. Instead, I agonize over it because I know I should write it and the response probably won't be anything like what I expect it to be. I wish fears wouldn't get the best of me and that I could just say, "I don't care what the response will be. I'm writing this because it needs to be said and I can't move forward until I get it off my chest." Maybe one day I'll be able to do that and be courageous and not care.
Every so often, I wish life were easier and that "someone" would lay out the life plan for me because I'd happily oblige and do whatever the plan said. *sigh*
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