The Outside of Everything to the Inside of You

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2010-10-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

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When you look toward the light, the shadows fall behind you.

2010-03-02T08:06:00.003-07:00

We had the kids over this weekend and had a great time. For those who know me, you've understood the struggle I have had with getting Shane's kids to be more comfortable in our situation. Things have been tense in the past, as we all struggle to learn new techniques in communication as well as getting used to divorce and new beginnings.

Once we moved into the house/got married, I had hoped things would get better. I am not sure if marriage made any difference, but having a house, with plenty of room to flap our elbows around has definitely helped us all turn a corner in our relationships. (having a new puppy doesn't hurt either!)

I have felt the promise of a growing attachment with Shane's kids on both sides these past few times they have come to visit. Shane is working on his relationship with their mother, and I am grateful that it seems he is healing a bit over the past few years of struggle.

The kids WANT to come visit! They try to finagle excuses to stay longer and we've all decided to work it out so that we can even have them with us on a Sunday morning so we can all go to church together.

There is definitely a light at the end of the tunnel.

2010-02-18T15:56:00.002-07:00

nothing is working here....words just get twisted and then we get angry....wasn't supposed to happen.

The Calm After the Storm

2008-12-31T08:58:00.002-07:00

As Christmas has passed, and the decorations put away, I have decided to put a little more effort into writing. These last 2 years have been fairly void of news, and I miss having something I can read to remind me of fun thoughts and events.

This Christmas was great. Shane decided to get started on shopping back in October, so we went a bit crazy on the kids. You know you've done well, when the kids all exclaim, "We got a lot of presents this year! Its my favorite Christmas ever!"

Whoo hoo! score for the wicked step-mother!

After waiting all morning for the kids to arrive in Salt Lake about 3pm, we rushed to Shane's Mothers house and visted with her for about an hour, scrambled back to our apartment where the present opening frenzy began.

Afterwards, we drove to Grantsville to spend time with my family. All in all, it was a phenomenal day. Everyone ended up happy and content.

I will have to write more later on some of the fun that took place, but as I am at work, I have to so a little something before they hopefully let me go home early.

Cheers all!

Lynn who?

2008-12-23T20:08:00.001-07:00

I just had to post this. Not sure if anyone reads this anymore since...well...I don't write! Hah hah!

I got a phone call tonight from someone very friendly. I answered, he said "Becky! This is Lynn! How are you doing? I haven't talked to you in forever! How are you doing?

What could I do? I wracked my brain, trying to remember someone named Lynn.. He asked me how I was doing, how the kids were doing...how everyone at work was doing.

Oddest conversation ever. He mentioned that he was in Colorado and lovin life. Was getting ready to get married and everything was fantastic. He felt bad, cuz we hadn't talked in about a year.

Lynn...Lynn...who the hell is Lynn? I felt bad about this time, as I had been following the conversation as if I KNEW this person. And honestly, I wasn't sure if I didn't. I am terrible.

So, after the awkward silences between his questions and my one word answers, he made plans to stop by on his vacation to Salt Lake...on or around January 3rd. Told me to tell Dennis (Dennis?!) hello, and signed off.

So, apparently, someone named Lynn from Colorado, is thinking he talked to a Becky he knows...and is going to show up somewhere in Utah to see the family. What a surprise for Becky and Dennis!

Tonights Debate

2008-10-07T20:02:00.003-07:00

I have only one issue.

I KNOW how much money I make. I KNOW how much money I can spend on my rent/mortgage. I was pre-approved for well more than I KNEW I could afford to pay each month if I chose to buy a house.

Because I KNOW that I couldn't afford the payments if I bought a home for the amount I was approved for, I opted to rent for a bit longer.

Joe Shmoe knew he couldn't afford his new shiny quarter-million dollar home, but since the bank or the mortgage company pre-approved his loan, he bought the damn thing anyway, and not surprisingly, foreclosed on it.

Is it my fault he was greedy? Is it my fault he couldn't afford his mortgage; the one he signed in agreement to pay????

Why the hell should I vote for a guy who says. "Hey, I know you can't afford your mortgage, I will take tax payers money, pay off what you KNEW you couldn't afford, and let you keep the house you fraudulently bought."

WTF?!

What happens to the Americans who are honest? Who opt to rent until they could take care of things so that they were in a better position to buy a house they could keep? We pay the taxes. We pay, out of our retirement plans, and 401k's. We pay by getting a 3% raise (if we are damn lucky) in an economy where the cost of living is increaseing at a 5 or 10% rate.

And Joe Schmoe gets a house he couldn't afford. Hell, I want a house I can't afford, but I am not going to sell my soul to get it.

But apparently, its the only way to stay afloat in this country.

Claim bankruptcy. Load up the credit cards. Slide out of paying bills. Hell, even if I signed the credit card slip at the grocery store...I can find a way to get out of paying the bill when it comes due. These people are why we are in an economic crisis! When you are honest in your dealings with your fellow man, you are paying the way for those who are not. No applause...no pat on the back... no tax credit for you, because our country is too busy bailing out those who are dishonest.

Ode to the Smell of Wood by Pablo Neruda

2008-10-01T01:15:00.000-07:00

translated by Jodey Bateman

Late, with the stars
open in the cold
I open the door.
The sea
galloped
in the night.

Like a hand
from the dark house
came the intense
aroma
of firewood in the pile.

The aroma was visible
as
if the tree
were alive.
As if it still breathed.

Visible
like a garment.

Visible
like a broken branch.

I walked
into
the house
surrounded
by that balsam-flavored
darkenss.
Outside
the points
in the sky sparkled
like magnetic stones
and the smell of the wood

touched
my heart
like some fingers,
like jasmine,
like certain memories.

It wasn't the sharp smell
of the pines,
no,
it wasn't
the break in the skin
of the eucalyptus,
neither was it
the green perfumes
of the grapevine stalk,
but
something more secret,
because that fragrance
only one
only one
time existed,
and there, of all I have seen in the world
in my own house at night, next to the winter sea,
was waiting for me
the smell
of the deepest rose,
the heart cut from the earth,
something that invaded me like a wave
breaking loose
from time
and it lost itself in me
when I opened the door
of the night.

update

2008-09-09T06:23:00.002-07:00

The summer days are almost gone! I can't believe how quickly these past few months have sped by.

Not too many thing have changed these days. My niece was baptized on Saturday, as was Shane's daughter. At my nieces baptism, her little sister ran up to me when I got to the church. I asked her if she was happy for Haven, and her response was, "I'm gonna cry I am so happy for Haven's baptism." She is 4.
We had a family reunion with all of my Dad's family. This annual reunion gets harder every year for me. Not that I don't enjoy my cousins and all, but without my Grandparents, it seems so different.

With the economy being so crappy, we've had quite a few structural changes at my job. While my job hasn't been one of those changes, my boss has. She is great! She's the kind of person who you like to work harder for. This lady is phenomenal. I'm not sure how long she has had cancer, but it has been a long rough road for her. Throughout her trials, she keeps an extremely positive attitude. Sure, she has her days where she would rather embrace the mad, but I've seen her physically stop in her tracks, take a deep breath, and put a smile on her face before continuing on her way.

It's good to have that kind of example around everyday.

Especially when things at home are so sad. Shane's kids have moved to Brigham City. Their mother decided to move there, buy a house and look for a job. So that will definitely make a difficult situation more difficult. It hurts my heart that she would do this. Not only are the kids getting older, but now they will be farther away. We all know how much teenagers want to spend time with their parents. Shane will be lucky to have any relationship with them at all. I just can't understand how someone who claims to know God, can be so heartless to his children.

At any rate, that is how things will be. Nothing we can do about it but hope for a day when justice will be served.

Anyway, I am off to work!

A light at the end of the tunnel

2008-08-15T11:49:00.001-07:00

Don't lose faith in me yet. I am still here....if anyone even checks this anymore....

pointless

2008-05-01T15:06:00.002-07:00

The boxes are being packed. The storage is filling up. There are a million things that I need to be home doing right now. And yet I am at work. Sitting at a pristine desk, typing this on a pristine keyboard trying to look busy.

My bosses are not in today or tomorrow and because so, I almost didn't get tomorrow off to move. Its lucky for me that I was able to insist the time off. I have absolutely nothing to do at this moment, and haven't since I came back from lunch, except clean my desk and dust out my keyboard.

tick tock, tick tock, 50 minutes to go.

Moving

2008-04-08T09:44:00.002-07:00

Well, we've been in our apartment for 9 months this May. Our original plan was to punch out some debts so that we could buy a house. Since we don't live in a perfect world, it just isnt in the cards for us this year. We figure it would be better to save a bit to buy something nice, instead of settling for what we can afford. (I don't revel in the thought of buying some dump in the shady part of town.)

At any rate, our rent is going up. Pretty substantially. From $730.00 to $775.00. If things were okay it would work, but there are few variables that require us to make some changes.

#1 We need storage. Shane used to have a house and didn't want to get rid of the stuff that you only use when you have a yard, and has been storing those things in his mom's garage. That is not turning out as well as we wished it would, as his family is a bit of the type who likes to remind you that you "owe them".

#2 We have a 2nd bedroom that of late(okay, the past 9 months) has not been used much. We bought a bunk bed with a fouton bottom bed, but its only been used a handful of times. Since the kids can choose whether they want to stay over or not, they have chosen more often than not to opt out of the sleepovers. Which means we have been paying for square footage that we aren't using. Cant store a lawn mower in there, so it pretty much stays the room where I lay out clothes to air dry.

So, we are moving into a 1 bedroom apartment in our same complex. The rent is about $100 less than what our rent increase will end up being. So, with a 1 bedroom apt and renting a garage in our parking lot, we will be about $40 cheaper rent-wise.

Its the only practical thing we can do and keep to our goal of eventually getting a house. But the concern is that now the kids will feel like we don't want them to come over. Any ideas as to how we can keep them from feeling unwelcome?

We've come full circle.

2008-03-24T12:27:00.004-07:00

About 10 years ago, I experienced my 1st significant relationship. The fellow I dated was a divorcee with 2 kids. They were/are absolutely the best kids around. Very open and loving. He had visitation rights the traditional way at that time. Every other weekend, we would go pick them up and have a blast.

One weekend in-particular stands out to me even now. We had been shopping one day at the mall and had seen one of those photo booth doo-hickees that take a picture and sketches it out, and thought it would be fun to bring the kids back one day to have their picture taken.

I guess, but don't remember, we had given one of the pictures to his ex-wife as a Mother's Day gift from the kids. It was a fun day, and every-time I see one of those machines, or sketches, I am reminded of that day.

Today, I came across one of those pictures on the desk of a new employee. I did a double take, because it was eerily familar.. it turned out to BE that sketch we had taken, and even framed.

How in the hell is the world so small?

Anyone out there ever have something like this happen to them?

It seemed like a great idea

2008-03-13T13:55:00.002-07:00

I think that the reasons I always thought I KNEW, was because I wanted so desperately to believe in the whole eternal consequenses, be married forever, God has a personal interest in our lives deal.

But I really cannot reconcile what happens to this form of thinking. There are horrible people who walk among us. Horrible vile black souled people who pose as God fearing, atonement believing, Temple going people who have truly evil intentions. What happens to them? Those who mock God? They get to spend their days planning the demise of others who are just trying to work each day to pay the bills, make ends meet, and hope than their kids will want to see them.

He loves his kids. But they don't have to visit. The government has given the choice to the 10 year old and the 7 year old. He pays more in child support than what he gets to take home. She chooses whether she wants to work or not. Lives rent free with her parents and has the ability to decide whether she wants to get a job. But he has to work, or the government can take his drivers license away.

I who love kids. Would be a great parent, am not liked by his kids. When they do visit, they deal with me being there, but there is truly no affection from them. A year and a half and they tolerate me. The difficulty of having our own kids, is so much....again with the money. There's no money. If we had custody, with two incomes, we could buy a house, have another kid give the kids the room they need to grow(not crammed in tiny rooms with no room for a poster on the walls) They would never need to be in daycare. We could teach them the value of hard work. Of the consequences of breaking rules or not doing your chores. They would learn to honor both mother and father (not just mother) and most of all, we would not need child support from her.

He has never beat his kids or his ex. He only raised his voice once in a 10 year marriage (the reason she divorced him!). I have never heard him say anything negative about their mother within hearing distance of his kids. He doesnt discuss his problems with them at all in fact. They are told daily, I am sure, that he was abusive (they have made comments) and that he is a bad person. They think he is cheap and selfish because he doesn't buy their affection every week.

The kicker is that he only gets to see them (if they so choose) between the hours of Friday 3pm to Saturday 3pm. Thats it. Justice would be for her to receive the same treatment...even for just a couple months. Would she fall apart? Would her little heart break? Of course it would. Why does she think that his hasnt?

She chooses not to work, so that his child support increases. They prorate increases back to days months past, but wont deduct her share of fees he pays out until next month.

He calls for information, and the lovely ORS treats him like he is a no-account asshole just trying to get out of paying his support. I called and the lady actually laughed when I said that I was thinking of getting divorced but wanted to know more specifics about how much money I could get out of my husband....

This is not justice. This is God's hand in all things? This is God teaching a man who had limited interaction with a church...that he is not important. He married a returned missionary woman who taught him for 10 years that the mother is the most important person in the home. That men where and are only there to provide money. He learned how to be a father from this woman.... This is God teaching a man that he is less than the dust of the earth. You are only needed for what you are worth monetarily. If you don't have enough money....you are not worth anything.

She lied to get more money out of him. Manipulated the system so that he looked more and more like the villan..then went to the temple and promised that she was honest in her dealings.

There are so many good things about this man that I love. So many possiblities in him. I deserve to build a life with him. To grow a family and build a happiness. But he has absolutely no confidence that he will it is in the cards for him to suceed. Well, he has had no experience with being allowed to grow and succeed in his life.

Honestly, I have never in my life seen such injustice. Why are women revered in the court systems? It seems that women are automatically labeled as the victim in a divorce whereas men are the automatic jackass that caused the divorce. Why aren't men and women treated equally? If a man is required to work, why isn't the woman?

I look back on my own life. It has been a relatively good one. I have felt warmth and a rightness in my life. But nothing comes for free. And I cant think of anything aside from Shane, that is worth all the pain and shit I have waded through.

I can't see how this whole daughter of god thing works. why would he allow this? This is too much. I could have said it 30 miles ago. If there is a plan...there is no happiness. Just guilt and punishment for not living up to the bar. Just judgment by the people who sit in the pew behind you, wondering why you didn't take the sacrament this week, or why you are wearing the same ugly dress you had on last week...

La Dee Dah Girl

2008-01-18T14:53:00.001-07:00

About a week ago, a gal I work with handed over a $100 gift certificate to a Day Spa she had won in a drawing awhile ago. She explained that the expiration date was looming and that her schedule just didn’t allow her to take advantage of the money.

What a wonderful gift! I haven’t had a quality haircut in quite some time and hadn’t had my hair colored by someone other than myself in about 5 years. I set up the appointment that same day. The price menu from this spa listed the haircuts at $34 &up and a full color weave at $64. Me, having very short and fine hair (ya gotta love being a natural blonde!) I have never been charged more than the minimum for a haircut, so naturally I assumed that my cut would be the minimum $34, thus totaling out my evening of being pampered at $98.00. Because I had no preference to my stylist, I was assigned to a gal named Shauna.

When I arrived for my appointment, Shauna was more attentive than I have yet experienced. Mind you, I have no qualms with going to Supercuts or GreatClips, but the usual response I get when patronizing these establishments is a cursory glance at a photo, and off they go with scissors in hand. Shauna, on the other hand, figuratively held my hand through the entire evening by making sure I had every choice and option available to me. She definitely made sure we were on the same page before proceeding with the services.

We chatted throughout the procedures, and it was great. I joked about my past haircuts at discount salons and talked about where I lived, where I worked etc. painting her a picture of being a middle income person who was splurging at a high end salon due to my good fortune in getting a gift card. Never, in the 3 and a half hours did I ever indicate that posh spa’s were anywhere near the norm for me.

I have a phenomenal haircut and color. Its easy to style, as she gave me tips and tricks to create different looks. I set up a return appointment, thinking that I could alternate the cut and color so as not to drop $100. Being free, it was okay to pay that much right? But I figured that I could save up…Shauna was that great.

To my surprise, when I went to pay out, as I was pulling out a extremely generous tip, the receptionist totaled my bill out to $145!!!!!!! I was confused and explained what I had ordered and what I had expected to pay. It turns out that I was given a stylist who was a “level 2” stylist with their salon and therefore it increased both services by $10 automatically. Not to mention, that throughout or consultation she had offered to either do a full weave to cover my roots, or just do a root touch up on the hair not being colored.. I told her to do what was easier. Little did I know that it was an extra $27!!! Had I taken the more difficult road, it wouldn’t have been any additional charges.

I was so ticked off! I felt completely taken advantage of. I quickly put my generous tip back in my wallet and requested my return appointment be cancelled. Who in their right mind would pay $145 for something that will grow out or fade away within 6 weeks?! Never in my life, would I or could I be that frivolous. Even my worst haircuts have grown out to be replaced by other cuts…

At any rate, I look great for now, and it feels pretty decadent (if not a bit wasteful) to be walking around with $145 worth of skill in my hair. Yeah, I paid out of pocket $45, which some would say is a phenomenal deal for this level of artistry I carry around on my shoulders (wink, wink) But alas, it will be forgotten in 3 months and no one will be the wiser for my naivete in trying to pretend to be the posh girl, going to a spa…

Why I Love September...

2007-08-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

One day, I will have time to contemplate the poetry I have in my head. I have this vision of getting back to this blog and writing about the quiet life, the excitement of living in perpetual sunshine, and taking naps with my love on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Today is not that day though.

September 1st, Shane and I will move into OUR apartment. Let the rain fall….

Somewhere in Middle America

2007-06-12T14:34:00.001-07:00

no time like the now

2007-05-31T15:06:00.001-07:00

I was going to wait and post when I could upload some pictures of our trip to Nebraska…but, that probably wont happen for awhile. I am never home and Shane doesn’t have the internet right now.

The trip that was 95% on…happened.

“Fer duh,” as Shane would say, “Lets state the obvious…”

It was a harried start as my alarm clock malfunctioned and didn’t wake me up on time. We ended up leaving 1.5 hours later than I had wanted to. But when we finally made it to Omaha, NE at 11pm CST, I was happy to be at my 2nd home.

We had a lot of fun! You know how they say that you can never go back? Well, they were wrong! I was sure that everything would be a sad shadow of what it once had been; that I had overblown the greatness of my old home in the last couple of years, but, it really was great.

We spent a lot of time eating. Visiting with friends and eating. Old Chicago and La Mesa…my two favorite establishments ended up being Shanes as well. (yippee!)

Anyway, we had fun….and I am more convinced that Shane is my perfect match. I will write more of the fun when I can illustrate it in color…

:)

2007-05-02T08:37:00.001-07:00

found this quote on another blog...

2007-04-27T08:04:00.001-07:00

One day you will ask me which is more important? My life or yours? I will say mine and you will walk away not knowing that you are my life.

Kahlil Gibran

The Future's so bright I gotta wear shades...

2007-04-16T07:26:00.000-07:00

Things are looking up. I just moved into a new place. It rocks. Well, okay, its my brother's place. But with five adorable little girls and a sister-in-law who is awesome, things are fantastic. So yeah, family, love, future plans....everything is looking great.

Remember Me

2007-03-29T10:05:00.001-07:00

Duck soup anyone?

2007-01-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

I drove my car into the oncoming path of a malard this morning. Shattered the passenger side of my windshield. While still intact, I fear using my wipers, it cracked so badly.

It scared me so bad, I blanked out about 15 minutes of my drive into work. I dont remember getting onto the freeway at all...

After making sure I was okay, the man said, "You should get AFLAC."

ha ha..chortle chortle...

I've never hit an animal before.. :( people? yeah, all the time, but cute little ducks? never....

Who...ME?

2007-01-20T12:28:00.000-07:00

I know...life goes on. My silence is not for lack of things going on, just a lack of things to write about really.

Um, little sister just got her eyeliner tattooed on. Looks pretty cool, but I think shes crazy! (love ya lil sister!) It really made me feel like an old dud. I haven't done anything crazy like that in quite some time. I guess its become habit to keep a low profile. I've got enough people dissatisfied with me, why do something on purpose, ya know? Yep, thats me the old dud... I think I will go dye my hair purple...

Speaking of old. I have officially turned 29. Without pomp or dramatics. Now I will never age! I can be 29 for the rest of my life, right?

The man went for a physical, and has enlisted my aid in eating healthy. I have to admit, I am not doing as well with this as he is. Its easy to eat healthy when we are together, not so much when I am at work. Those vending machines know my name..and they know me well. If I lived closer to work, it would be easier to muster up the effort to hit the gym. Its $8 a month to use the gym at my office. So far, I have tested those waters twice. I still pay....so I call that $8 a month my fat fee.

That's about it for now. Nothing else I can write about here... I will keep you better posted in the future. ( I have really sunk in this whole blogging thing lately aye?)

Too funny...

2006-12-10T09:28:00.001-07:00

100%

2006-12-02T23:19:00.001-07:00

Posted By:Ha-REE

Get this video and more at MySpace.com

Due dates

2006-11-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

You would think that working for a newspaper, you have strict deadlines you have to adhere to... Well, you would be wrong in your assumption. There will always be that last minute ad wanting space, the frantic attempt at just a little more revenue....

So, on one hand, $300 is not so big a deal, it was readily fixed and quite simply too. So what if I told the printer to have the ads here on the 17th so they could be distributed on the 14th....

semantics.... you say potato... I say potahto.. lol

No more Thanksgiving please!

2006-11-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

I know..Im the ultimate loser...but I have an excuse...

I dream about ads..what has shown up on time, what we are still missing, who's fault is it... ah!

But had fun last night putting together a puzzle. Went to Park City last Saturday and did a little window shopping. I get out, but have no desire to sit in front of my computer at home....

Sorry I have failed you...

oops!

2006-11-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

made a mistake at work...it will cost about $300 to fix. I guess its better than the almost $16,000 mistake I made back in July...

I forgot....

2006-11-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

Sorry about not posting yesterday....I really did mean to get something in, but the man came for a visit and it slipped my mind. We spent most of the afternoon loading his ipod with music. Yep, you guessed it! Christmas music. I think I have actually found someone with the same affinity for holiday cheer as I have......AND it didnt bother him when I told him how EVERYONE now knows how cute is a$$ is.....

Saturday we ended up crashing a wedding. It was fun. Okay, so we didnt exactly crash. We knew someone who knew the someones who got married. It was a beautiful reception with all the acutrements that are associated with a romantic evening. Chocolate fountain, roses, candelight..sigh....nice ambiance... :)

November

2006-11-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

The sky is grey and the leaves are a fiery russet in great contrast against the dead branches. A perfect day to finish "The Time Traveler's Wife".

Beautiful.. an absolutely breathtaking expression of love.

Why my man is the best #695

2006-11-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Today he took my car to have the tires rotated. He has been bugging me to get it done for about three weeks now, and today, his day off, he decided to take matters into his own hands...

Not only did he get them rotated, he inquired on replacement tires and wheeled (no pun intended!) and dealed them into giving me a great cost when the time comes.

Sigh...he's just great....did I mention he has the cutest butt too? One day I will take a picture..

Happy Friday all!

Funny signs posted throughout the building

2006-11-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to write about this for awhile....

Today I walked past the mens bathroom on the first floor, only to be informed by a cute little note that "so and so is retiring soon...come to the party...." where? in the bathroom????

A couple other notes....

Please do not flush your used feminine pads.. (hello? how old are we that we don't know this already?)

And my personal favorite: "Stealing is against company policy. Please do not take anyone else's items from the refrigerator."

Is it just against company policy?

Check it out

2006-11-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

Currently reading a fantastic book that is raved about wherever I take it. The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger.

I highly recommend it to anyone who loves to read. I haven't loved a book this much since reading The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.

Writing in your journal..reading in your journal

2006-11-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

I've been a journal writer since the 3rd grade. Not a dedicated writer, mind you, but I have about 4 or 5 journals sitting around.

When I started this blog, I ceased to write on paper. On one hand, its sad, but on the other, I think I have done better here than I would have in the book.

Two years ago I was living in Nebraska, worried about the whole social scene of a singles ward. Last year I was in Utah, getting ready for a family excursion to Houston, Texas for a Thanksgiving feast. This year I am just playin it day to day.

And I am happier than ever...

colds suck

2006-11-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

I swear, I get sick more often here in Utah...

I am living in a fog...it hurts to keep my eyes open. I know this is a janky post, but its a post nonetheless...

deal.. :P

slackers 101

2006-11-05T22:03:00.000-07:00

I guess I've already failed miserably...missed posting on Saturday... but it was a splendid day...so am I excused?

1. Have you ever been searched by the cops?
nope

2. Do you close your eyes on roller coasters?
never!

3. When's the last time you've been sledding?
2001

4. Would you rather sleep with someone else, or alone?
with someone else

5. Do you believe in ghosts?
Yes

6. Do you consider yourself creative?
sometimes...

7. Do you think O.J. killed his wife?
thats so old news

8. Jennifer Aniston or Angelina Jolie?
Angelina Jolie

9. Do you stay friends with your ex's?
Sure...not into hating...

10. Do you know how to play poker?
nope

11. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight?
I dont think so..

12. What's your favorite commercial?
the back to school Staples commercial where they kids are pouting and slumping down the isle..and the dad is prancing around behind the cart..with "its begining to look a alot like christmas" playing in the background.

13. What are you allergic to?
walnuts, bananas

14. If you're driving in the middle of the night, and no one is around do you run red lights?
only if I have been sitting at a red light for too long,

15. Do you have a secret that no one knows but you?
doesnt everyone?

16. Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees?
GO SOX!!!

17. Have you ever been Ice Skating?
yeah i loved it

18. How often do you remember your dreams?
I'd say three days out of seven.

19. When was the last time you laughed so hard you cried?
Im pretty sure it was when Emily (sister-in-law) dumped soda down her lap at the beginning of a movie and had to sit there for 2 hours...

20. Can you name 5 songs by The Beatles?
Michelle
Help!
Lucy in the Sky
Strawberry Fields
Can't Buy Me Love

21. What's the one thing on your mind now?
ugh, work tomorrow...

22. Do you believe in love at first sight?
sure..doesnt happen to everyone, but I know it has to some.

23. Do you know who Ghetto-ass barbie is?
no?????

24. Do you always wear your seat belt?
yes

25 what cell service do you use?
Cingular

26. Do you like Sushi?
nope

27. Have you ever narrowly avoided a fatal accident? ?
Not that I recall

28. What do you wear to bed?
flannel bottoms and a t-shirt.

29. Been caught stealing?
nope

30. what shoe size do you have?
9 1/2

31. Do you truly hate anyone?
nope..well..wait...maybe one person...

32. Classic Rock or Rap?
ooh....tough one...not a big fan of either...

33. If you could sleep with one famous person, who would it be?
Adam Duritz! ;)

34. Are you a virgin.
nope

35. Have you ever sang in front of the mirror?
all the time..into my brush too :)

36. What food do you find disgusting?
brains, tongue, tail, hoof....

37. Do you sing in the shower?
yes

38. Did you ever play, "I'll show you mine, if you show me yours"?
nope.

39. Have you ever made fun of your friends behind their back?
sadly yes

40. Have you ever stood up for someone you hardly knew?
yes

41. Have you ever been punched in the face?
yep..damn that boy...6th grade was a tough year...

random thoughts on singlehood

2006-11-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

So, I beleive most of ya'll remember that it is only recently that I have been apart of the "couples" scene. Yep, eight long years of dry spell now seem like a blur. ;) jk

So, yeah, just this week I've been asked out to dinner by one guy, and invited on a week long cruise by another.

Not so much as a bite for 8 years....too funny. Im not complaining, mind you, in fact, I feel that a lesson has been learned.

Sex appeal is fifty percent what you've got and fifty percent what people think you've got. ~Sophia Loren

You believe that you've got it, then you do!

Is it Christmas yet?

2006-11-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

Last week sometime I was driving home quite late and noticed that a neighbor of mine had already set up her Christmas Tree.

There's already Christmas music playing on the radio, and of course stores are starting to sell decor.

Now, my question is...if we all agree that it is so wrong..why does it happen? I admit that I am a lover of Christmas music. But I listen to it year round. Not constantly, mind you, but I enjoy an occassional reminder to keep the true meaning of Christmas all year round.

I do not, however, decorate my home for the holiday season year round...

Happy NaBloPoMo

2006-11-01T11:48:00.001-07:00

Lets see if I can manage to keep this thing going with a post every single day for the next month in a way that doesnt put ya'll to sleep. If you start getting bleary eyed, just tell all your insomniac friends where they can turn...

So, question of the day...

If the definition of love is to care more about someone else than you do about yourself, what happens when you realize that its not reciprocated? Sure, there's love and caring, but not love as defined above...

I'm good at loving myself, even better at loving other people more... so, how do you balance loving yourself and giving yourself to someone else? And how do you get yourself back....

There was an episode of Seinfeld that discussed this issue. It was called "hand". If you had "hand" in a relationship, it meant that the other person loved you more, therefore giving you more power.
Is every relationship like this? Does someone always end up worried that "this is the last straw and they will walk away"... if so, why is it worth it?

2006-10-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Everyday is a busy one. But I think ya'll would die of boredom if I actually told you the goings on of my days. There's really been nothing over the top crazy lately. We went camping this past weekend. It was fun. Cold, but fun.

I think October is my favorite month. The weather is fantastic for sweaters. The leaves have started changing color and the mountains are awash with oranges, reds, and yellows. I love the beginnings of the holiday season...shopping, shopping, shopping!

I think mainly, I love this time of year because I get to think on past times. I love a good jaunt through memory lane, and the last quarter of each year seems to hold a plethora of good times. Last year I actually spent Halloween with the nieces and nephews; a first for me. It was great seeing them all dressed up. I even helped with the makeup application of the twins. They LOVED wearing sparkly eyeshadow!

Its crazy how much time has gone by since the good old days in Nebraska. Now I have to speak of it as "the year before last". I would be great to go back for a visit. The bummer of a new job is not having any vacation time...at least not enough to use for fun instead of appointments. Hopefully things will open up a bit more, and I will be able to take a trip. I am sure it will be a great time, with its dissapointments as nothing every really stays the same.

anyway...go Huskers. (BLAH!) ;)

Self distruct mode

2006-09-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

Ive been at work since 8:30...and the fire alarms are being tested today. So far, they work..and have worked since I got here. It is now almost noon.

Calgon.....

Running on empty

2006-09-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

Its funny how busy I have been lately. Hardly have had time to just sit and reflect... But I have nothing new to report. Except that I am happy and in love. Which is the best kind of busy to be!

New pictures

2006-09-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am thoroughly convinced that mine are the most beautiful nieces on the planet.

How does your life rate?

2006-08-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

Last year my score was 6.5. There really is nowhere to go but up when you are unemployed and living in your parents basement. Glad those days are over!

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	8
Mind:	7.6
Body:	6.6
Spirit:	7.1
Friends/Family:	7.1
Love:	7.7
Finance:	6.5
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

Behind the Door

2006-08-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

A man is driving down the road and breaks down near a monastery. He goes to the monastery, knocks on the door, and says, "My car broke down. Do you think I could stay the night?"

The monks graciously accept him, feed him dinner, even fix his car. As the man tries to fall asleep, he hears a strange sound. The next morning, he asks the monks what the sound was, but they say, "We cannot tell you. You are not a monk."

The man is disappointed but thanks them anyway and goes about his merry way.

Some years later, the same man breaks down in front of the same monastery. The monks gain accept him, feed him, even fix his car. That night, he hears the same strange noise that he had heard years earlier. The next morning, he asks what it is, but once again the monks reply, "We cannot tell you. You are not a monk."

The man says, "All right, all right. I am dying to know. If the only way I can find out what that sound was is to become a monk, how do I become a monk?"

The monks reply, "You must travel the earth and tell us how many blades of grass there are and the exact number of sand pebbles. When you find these numbers, you will become a monk."

So the man sets about his task. Some forty-five years later, he returns and knocks on the door of the monastery. He says, "I have traveled the earth and have found what you have asked for. There are 145,236,284,232 blades of grass and 231,281,219,999,129,382 sand pebbles on the earth."

The monks reply, "Congratulations. You are now a monk. We shall now show you the way to the sound." And then they lead the man to a wooden door, where the head monk says, "The sound is right behind that door."

The man reaches for the knob, but the door is locked. He says, "Real funny. May I have the key?"The monks give him the key, and he opens the door. Behind the wooden door is another door made of stone.

The man demands the key to the stone door. The monks give him the key, and he opens it, only to find a door made of ruby. He demands another key from the monks, who provide it. Behind that door is another door, this one made of sapphire. So it went until the man had gone through doors of emerald, silver, topaz, amethyst.

Finally, the monks say, "This is the last key to the last door." The man is relieved almost beyond belief. He unlocks the door, turns the knob, and behind that door he is amazed to find the source of that strange sound.But I cannot tell you what it is, because you are not a monk.

Girls Night Junk Food

2006-08-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

I will post some pictures of our evening later tonight, but wanted to start the post directly. As I have some free time on my hands to waste.

We had a girls night in Sunday. Lots of junk food, and a few chick flicks. It was fun. Haven't done that in forever.

Ya gotta try this... handful of "blast-o-butter popcorn" and a whopper.

It tastes like butterscotch or brownsugar popcorn.. its tasty.

"Oh, I know her!"

2006-08-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

That is what Kaitlynn said when she first saw her new baby sister through the nursery window. Too precious!

MaKenzie Hope Brand was born August 22, 2006 at 2:45pm (I guessed the day!) Weighing in at 7 lbs 11oz 20 inches long. She has the longest feet I've ever seen on a baby!

yeah, I know long time.

2006-08-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

I HATE it when that happens! finish the post and the dumb computer loses it.. you would think I would learn..

Anyway, cant really do the internet thing at work these days. I screwed up on something that cost the company thousands of dollars. Yeah, kinda like my car..... so, being under the microscope, I dont want to press my luck.

Funny story of the week:
Planned this great dinner...Brazilian Stroganoff. My favorite dish from the mish. Problem: the man doesnt care for mushrooms. Being the great, accomodating girlfriend that I am, I threw a frozen pizza in the oven.
So, how the H did I burn the pizza?! Yeah, 28 and I play like Im 16, learning to cook for the first time. Moral of the story? Dont ever brag up how great a cook you are. That way, there are no expectations that you will actually get to eat dinner. Effing frozen pizzas anyay....

Just the news

2006-08-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

The man was almost killed at this concert over the weekend. At about 1am, I got a text regarding incident:
Tool concert. Was almost killed and had to be resuscitated by a paramedic. Guess it wasn't my time. Bye babe.

Yay. Thanks for the update! lol(that was an ironic "lol").

Then, as if that wasn't enough adventure for him, he almost gets arrested and sent to jail while visiting in Mexico. Crazy crazy man.... :) Side note: didn't do anything wrong, just a random "pull over and rip the car apart just in case". You know, the usual.

Glad he is home and in one piece!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Heard on the radio regarding this issue.

I am shocked and appalled that they are talking about a court martial. What, a slap on the wrist cuz the victims weren't American? I admit, I have limited knowledge of military discipline, but still...

Say cheese!

2006-08-04T07:56:00.000-07:00

It should be illegal to be this happy, but believe you me, I am!

I got an itch

2006-07-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

Why is it that come August, I really really just want September to show up? There's something about the whole leaves changing and the beginning of the school year that I love.

Singing in the Rain

2006-07-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, I admit it isn't the most original subject line, but work with me here..its crunch time at work, but I still wanted to write about the weekend.

Em and I went to the Peter Brienholt concert Saturday night at the Sandy Ampitheater. Its the 3rd one I've been to at that venue, and this year it rained! It wasnt a horrible storm, just enough water to get you good and soaked.

The concert opened with a pianist named William Joseph. He was amazing! I have to say, his CD will be one I plan on purchasing in the future.

Anyway, after Williams performance, Pete came out on stage and it began to rain during his first number. People were clamoring for cover, but Em and I just sat there, reveling in the great music. The rain stopped shortly, and the rest of the concert was fantastic! There's just something about his concerts that always make me want to be a better person. All in all, it was an uplifting experience that was desperately needed.

A couple fun parts in the concert: Pete had everyone with cell phones turn them on, and he had the stage lighting cut. I was suprised at just how many people had cells..it looked pretty cool in the pitch dark. Also, at the end, Pete gave the stage over to David Tolk who has an album release coming up in the next two weeks. David performed the title song on the new album "In Reverence", and it began to rain again. Not as hard as before, but just enough to really create a great atmosphere.

As Peter has a new album release coming up, he played a couple songs that will be on the new cd, and they were great. I can't wait for September to roll around so that I can (hopefully) get to the cd release concert.

Good times....

Blue October

2006-07-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am in love with this CD. I highly recommend listening to "Congratulations" and "Into the Ocean"

I am happy

2006-07-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

Just a happy day. Not sure how it is, due to the stupid $15 service fee to do a check by phone for my car payment. Yeah, it was late, but not my fault. I still havent received a bill. I had to get the guy on the phone to give me my account number even. So yeah..an already expensive car payment is 15 bucks higher...AND my interest for each day it was late was increased by about $3 too. sunuva....

This building credit thing sucks rocks.

I beat my cold. Pretty much. I mean, I haven't taken any cold medicine today..except for those great little "No Time for Colds" zinc lozenges..and I havent sneezed yet today. Whoo hoo! I am telling you...Vitamin C the crap out of your cold if you get one. Its the only thing that really works.

So, the system I use constantly here at the good ol white collar job has been upgraded. Upgraded so severely that in order to use said program, someone from IT will have to come to my desk and download new stuff. And ya'll know how busy IT can get. I think they are backed up a month or two. lol. Least thats what they tell me when I ask them to upgrade my windows to XP...

Anyway, I am dead in the water at this point. So, I figured I would try my best and updating ya'll on whats goin on these days. Just chillin here..listening to the newest Counting Crows CD. Drinking straight from this nice cold jug of O.J. and some Yoplait Cherry Orchard yogurt I purchased on my way to work.

The only thing that could make this morning any better...wait..I better not go there.. cuz I can think of MANY things that could make this day better...

But at any rate, I feel like a Cat that has just woken up from a nap. I feel all stretchy and wish there was a window anywhere near my desk so I could see the dust floating through the air.

Another update. total weight lost: 35 lbs. Whoo hoo! I think that deserves a standing ovation.... lol I've also been dating someone..:) he makes me happy.too.

Crappy day

2006-07-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Who gets a cold in the middle of July? Seriously..this sucks.. And whats with Sudafed "claiming" the whole 24 hour relief? This stopped working about four hours after I took it..but I cant take anything else for another 20 hours?! WTH!

Okay, Im done whining. In all honesty, the cold isnt that bad, but pile a full day of work, errands, and other stuff to it and it gets pretty crappy.

Hey There Delilah

2006-07-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

Get Your Music Video Code Here | Pimp Your Profile | Am I Hot?

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hot days

2006-07-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

Today is a slow one. Its only 1:30 and I just got back from lunch. I have work to do, but not enough to keep me busy for 4 more hours. Well, 3 1/2 hours to be precise. Still...not enough. And I have writers block to boot. I need a subject...that would help!

This seems kind of funny:

You Are The Fool

You are a fascinating person who is way beyond the concerns of this world.
Young at heart, you are blissfully unaware of any dangers ahead.
You are a true wanderer - it has be difficult finding your place in this world.
Full of confidence, you are likely to take a leap of faith.

Your fortune:

You are about to embark on a new phase in your life.
This may mean changing locations, jobs, friends, or love status.
You are open about what the future will bring, and free of worry.
You have made your peace with fate, and you're ready to start down your new path.

What Tarot Card Are You?

good weekend!

2006-07-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

Well, my sister was here this past week, and we had a blast. Hit the movies pretty hard. Went to see "The Devil Wears Prada". I have to say, it was better than the book. I couldnt even finish the book it was so boring. When does that EVER happen?!

Also saw Superman 3D at the IMAX theatre. Good flick. Liked it much.

Overall, it was really great to see my sister. The week went by entirely too quickly if you ask me.

Working Monday, Wednesday and Thursday

2006-07-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Why oh why didnt I just take the whole week off?!

The 4th of July was great. Grantsville has some good traditions for the holidays. We started the day out with a parade (way below par this year with all the political campaigning going on) then ended up at the little carnival up at the park. The kids got their faces painted, did the whole "fishing"deal , and tried their luck with the ring toss.

Then we ended up getting together with the family for a nice bbq and, of course, fireworks. Overall, aside from the rainstorm in the afternoon, it was a great day. Too bad it was precluded by two more work days for me.

If everyone has the day off, why am I at work?

2006-07-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

Not the funnest morning commute today. There was no one on the road! Why didn't I take today off instead of Friday?

Anyway, things have been hectic of late. I know, I say that everytime I post lately. Sorry. Maybe the whole writers block is contagious.

This weekend was the weekend we moved Kat out of her apartment, into her parents house. I am so happy it is over! It was a lot of work, for such a little apartment. I will be moving into the house after the 10th. Its going to be great. The house is huge, and has the most beautiful landscaping. Lots of big trees, thick green grass, a nice hammock in the backyard, and even a water feature in the front yard. Yep, it will be rough for the next year and a half, but someone's got to do it.

My sister is here today for a weeklong visit. I am excited to see her. She comes in at 1:30 this afternoon.

Tip #465

2006-06-23T14:23:00.000-07:00

Always make time for a diet coke and pretzel break.

Even the bugs love it

2006-06-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Yellow: The color of sunshine, buttercups, and big bird. Yellow with black, green, and red splots: The color of my car after driving past the Great Salt Lake ONCE!

I've washed my car twice in less than 12 hours. Seriously, when you can see the bug guts from 50 yards away, you know its bad. And how the hell do bugs get squooshed on the BACK of my car?

Longest day of the year..

2006-06-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

I am finding it really difficult to sit at my desk and work. I want to be anywhere but where I am! I know this is a normal plite for the American white collar worker but still... Why is the time going sooo slooowly?

2006-06-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

My parents are having the bathroom redone. I guess they figured a tub that’s been used for 28 years ready to be retired. So, I am being kicked out for three days next week. Its good to have friends you can count on in a pinch like this. As it is, next month I will be moving out of the old parents house. Kat and I are moving into her parents house while they go on a mission for the LDS church. I am super excited. Not that living with my parents has been bad. In fact, they rarely see me these days as it is.
I’ve gotten back into the dating circuit. Its been fun and interesting. I am a bit rusty though, and still am not sure what the good signs are and what the bad signs are. How do you know if a date went well? Everyone is so polite in the beginning, no one wants to say what they are really thinking. That sucks, cuz, I am not one to play the guessing games. I guess it is a bit intimidating when a girl knows what she wants too quickly. So, I am guessing.

My little sister is coming for a visit the first week in July. It will be great as I haven’t seen her since Thanksgiving. She hasn’t been back to Utah since last summer.

Last summer…

This time last year, I was babysitting the twins for my brother while he was out of state at a wedding. I was still living in Nebraska, but had packed everything up to move. That was an odd timeline. I flew to Utah for a week, flew back to Nebraska for a week, then moved to Utah. The rest is history. I’m not sure if you remember the reasons I moved back. My mom was not doing well health-wise, and I was feeling the weight of being away from my family. The week I was here babysitting, she was so tired all of the time. I remember how slowly she had to walk, carrying her oxygen tank everywhere she was able to go, which wasn’t very many places.

Anyway, by the time I was all moved back, she was doing better. As in, she no longer needs oxygen during the day, and has mobility. In the beginning we would do things together, just in case she got tired, but the more time that passed, the better she was feeling. Yes, she is still sick, and will always be, but was there a miracle involved? Absolutely. In fact, she is still getting better. It has been a truly humbling experience to watch my parents through this whole ordeal. I can’t say how I would react if I personally were given the diagnosis that my Mom has been given, but she has taken these past 5 years in stride. She has grown and stretched herself beyond her disease. She has developed into a strong, courageous, and optimistic woman. She is a great example of overcoming obstacles. It makes me happy when people tell me I am so much like her.

All things aside, this past year being back in Utah has been a good one. I think I’ll stick around.

Mom in training?

2006-06-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry, that I have been gone for so long. This last week has been a real eye opener. I think I have mentioned that my best friend is taking some night classes to get her CNA cert. I've been staying with her, so that I can take care of the three kids. First I better say that the kids are great. I love 'em. But I never new know much stress is involved in planning everything around them. Dinner, what time to leave work, what time to get them ready for bath, bed, where are the bloody socks? Why can't we find a matching pair? Those shorts are dirty, no you cant wear a sweatshirt, its 90 degree's outside, well, you are just going to have to finish your dinner first, no you cant have another juice pack, eat your dinner, no, you are the best, I love you too, Mom will be home after you are asleep, yes, I am watching you again, only one more story, brush your teeth, stop picking on your brother...

I can't wait to have my own.... :)

BBQ time!

2006-06-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am heading over to a friends house for a BBQ. I havent seen this gal for quite awhile so I am pretty excited. In fact, there should be a few people there that I haven't seen in awhile.

The next couple of weeks will prove to be educational for me as well as my best friend. She is taking a CNA course after she gets off work at 5pm. The class lasts 5 hours a day for 10 business days. Therefore, I am moving in to help her with her three kids. The kids I can handle. Its just been awhile since I have actually had to plan and prepare meals that kids can eat without their faces contorting into grotesque imitations of the children I know and love.

Wish me luck!

Penelope

2006-05-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

Penelope
Originally uploaded by Overjoyedgirl.

Here she is. Not the best picture, but hey, the camera phone will have to do for now. Nellie is great. She can go 35 miles on one gallon of gas, and she chirps like a little chick when you lock her up tight.

New car time

2006-05-30T15:18:00.000-07:00

I've realized that "no credit" can be as detrimental as "Bad Credit" So, today I am going to be the proud owner of a 2006 Chevy Aveo. I will have the choice between, Red, Yellow, or Silver.

Wish me luck. I am nervous and all excited n stuff....I've never bought a car before.

Nothing much going on..

2006-05-29T15:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I haven't posted lately.. not that RACHEL has much to say about that!!!! ahem...

Anyway, my parents have been out of town for the last few days. In that time, I have realized that it would not be such a great idea for me to live alone. When people are around, I have no problems entertaining myself, but leave me alone for too long and I end up living in my pajamas all day long.

As it is, mid July I am moving into a house with my best friend and her kids. It should be fun. I am really excited. Sure, its still in Grantsville, but I think it will really help boost my mood.

One day I will have to figure out a way to elaborate on what has been going on in my life these past 2 months. Its hard to talk about things so close to me, but one day...

Suffice it to say, events have cause a few good things, and a few bad things to take place. 20 pounds lighter, and a couple habits deeper, I am here...alive and kicking, and biking, and sweating...

Blue skies..smiling above me....

What is your passion?

2006-05-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Human passions have mysterious ways, in children as well as grown-ups. Those affected by them can’t explain them, and those who haven’t known them have no understanding of them at all. Some people risk their lives to conquer a mountain peak. No one, not even they themselves can really explain why. Others ruin themselves trying to win the heart of a certain person who wants nothing to do with them. Still others are destroyed by their devotion to the pleasures of the table. Some are so bent on winning a game of chance that they lose everything they own, and some sacrifice everything for a dream that can never come true. Some think their only hope of happiness lies in being somewhere else, and spend their whole lives traveling from place to place. And some find no rest until they have become powerful. In short, there are as many different passions as there are people. ~ written by Michael Ende (The Neverending Story)

doctor smoctor

2006-05-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

Friday I had a doctors appointment. You know..THE appointment all girls hate to schedule. I hated it so much, that I hadn't been for about 10 years. I had these fears that something would be wrong with me...

Turns out that it wasn't an unwarranted fear. Doc said that if I ever planned on having kids, I would most likely have to seek the expertise of a Fertility specialist.

Worst fear is coming true.

The Opera!

2006-05-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

Going to "The Barber of Seville" tonight with the parents. Whoo hoo!

sorry about the lapse

2006-05-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of you so blessed to change dirty diapers, and blow snotty noses! To be cleaning up baby vomit sounds divine right now.

2006-05-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

I want to sleep. Really. A dreamless sleep.
Three weeks straight.
Maybe then I will forget the last month and a half.

I think that "staying friends" is another way of saying. "I want you to see how happy I am without you."

I never should have ripped off that duct tape.

Early to bed, early to rise

2006-05-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

Makes this girl, early to work and bored with nothing to do at 8:10am.

Anyhow, my car died as I was climbing the last hill to my office yesterday. Just stalled out in the middle of the road. Thankfully I had the thought to coast it over to the side of the road. Turns out the ignition may be the culprit.

Im gonna make myself sick

2006-05-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

Diet Coke and gummi worms do not a lunch make.

Quiz of the moment

2006-05-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

1. When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought? My eyes hurt.
2. How much cash do you have on you?: a $3.01
3. Whats a word that rhymes with TEST? guest4. planet?: Mars
5. Who is the 4th person on your missed call list: William6. What is your favorite ring on your phone? Sweet Child O Mine by Guns N’ Roses!7. What shirt are you wearing? Teal with beads
8. What do you label yourself? overjoyedgirl
9. Name the brand of your shoes you're recently wearing: Docs (thanks to my baby sister)
10. Bright or Dark Room? Bright color
11. What were you doing at midnight last night? Talking on Yahoo.12. What did your last text message you received on your cell say? Ill be able to check my yahoo
13. Where is your nearest 7-11? From work, its on 41st…from home, its in Tooele
14. What's a saying that you say a lot? Good luck with that!15. Who told you they loved you last? W
16. Last furry thing you touched? Molly
17. How Much Fruit Have You Eaten in the Past Three Days? Strawberry Pie (thanks Mom!)18. How many rolls of film do you need to get developed? none thank heavens for digital!
19. Favorite age you have been so far? 24
20. Your worst enemy? myself
21. What is your current desktop picture? Cailin on Easter
22. What was the last thing you said to some one? Yes!
23. If you had to choose between a million bucks or to be able to fly, which would you choose? million bucks
24. All time favorite song right now? Independently Happy by Blue October
25. The last song you listened to? Independently Happy by Blue October
26. Whats your favorite memory of when you were little? Sitting around the Christmas tree before school
27. What was your favorite sport in High School? Liked watching football.
28. Whats your favorite sport now?Hockey
29. Did you play an instrument? The piano, a little
30. Do you like kids? I LOVE KIDS!
31. Where do you work? Newspaper Agency Corporation
32. How many siblings do you have? 3 brothers 1 sister
33. What kind of music do you like? I like it all
34. Whose your best friend? Kat
35. If you only had one day left on this earth, what would you do? I certainly wouldn’t be at work.

Hootnanny's anyone?

2006-04-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

cube 1 stick of butter and place in square glass baking dish. Turn oven to 350 degrees and put dish on middle rack to melt butter.

combine the following ingredients into blender:
6 eggs
1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1 tsp baking powder

pour into hot baking dish and bake for 45 minutes.

serve with maple syrup.

Goodmorning Starshine!

2006-04-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

There's something to be said about driving to work in the morning and having to put on the super dark sunglasses because the sun is so bright.

Its a good day.

Dedicated to Emily

2006-04-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

As a Shoe Diva I have often been asked how shoes changed my view of the world and the world's view of me. There are dozens of reasons for having lots of shoes.

Shoes are fun

It's always nice to have stylin' feet

Shoes are foot candy

With great shoes your feet do the talking

If my friend likes my shoes, then I will know what to get her for her birthday

Shoes express your attitude and personality

Shoes are to an outfit like frosting to a cake

Color is important--so if options are available--buy those too!

Its fun to mix casual shoes with dressy clothes, and visa versa

Remember what shoes did for Dorothy?

Thanks for thinkin' of me Em!

Fun with Google search

2006-04-23T07:11:00.000-07:00

Top 10 "Becky likes" on Google search:

Becky likes Sharpies (well, I do have one in every color)
Becky likes it in the mouth (uh..not sure I want to broach this one)
becky-likes-to-write (occasionally, I get a hankering)
Becky likes kiddie shows like Blues Clues and Veggie-Tales. (You gotta love Larry the cucumber)
Becky likes to travel (sure)
Becky likes most types of music (yup)
Becky likes dogs very much. (I sure like Molly, my brothers Springer)
Becky likes the colours in their living room. (as long as its a color and not a form of white)
Becky likes cooking. (love it!)
becky likes you. (of course I do!!!)

2006-04-22T23:52:00.000-07:00

Love is like hope.

And we keep hoping in spite of ourselves.

Parents Anniversary

2006-04-22T09:57:00.000-07:00

This year my Dad gave my Mom the exact card he bought for her last year. On one hand, it shows that Mom remembers. And it also shows that, well, at least Dad's feelings havent changed... :)

My Dads goofy. Here's to another 31 years.

Poem Twenty by Pablo Neruda

2006-04-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

POEM TWENTY
from Twenty Poems of Love and One of Desperation
by Pabo Neruda

I could write the very saddest verses tonight
Writing, for example "The night is sprinkled
With stars sparkling blue, far away."

The night wind whirls in the sky and sings.

I could write the very saddest verses tonight
I loved her and at times she also loved me.

On nights like this I had her in my arms.
I kissed her so many times under the infinite sky.

She loved me, at times I also loved her.
How could I not love her big staring eyes?

I could write the very saddest verses tonight.
To think I don't have her. To feel that I have lost her.

To hear the immense night, even more immense without her.
And the verses fall on the soul like dew on the pasture.

What does it matter that my love couldn't keep her?
The night is full of stars and she's not with me.

That's all. Far off someone is singing.
Far off My love is not used to having lost her.

How my glance looks for her to get close to her.
My heart looks for her and she's not with me.

The same night that turns the same trees white.
We aren't now the same way we were then.

I no longer love her, that's certain, but how much I loved her.
My voice searched on the wind to touch her ear.

Someone else's, she's someone else's. Like before I kissed her.
Her voice, her bright body. Her infinite eyes.

I no longer love her, that's certain, but perhaps I love her.
Love lasts so short and forgetting takes so long.

But on nights like this I had her in my arms.
My heart is not used to having lost her.

Although this may be the last pain that she causes me
And these may be the last verses that I write her.

I hate being sick

2006-04-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

Why is it that during the day, it is all I can do just to stay awake, but here it is... 3am and I haven't slept for more than a couple of hours all night? I am about ready to break into my parents Ambien stash!

Keyword search

2006-04-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

I've made into the big times now.

This weeks yahoo searches have hit my site!!!

Boobs Becky
picture of my boobs
And!!!
20 year old girl porn.

Beautiful joy

2006-04-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

Beautiful joy
Originally uploaded by Overjoyedgirl.

Words can't express how breathtaking it is to watch these kids grow up.

And they love me. That's always a bonus.

I'll never understand

2006-04-15T22:12:00.000-07:00

I just read a blog that just baffles me. Someone was writing about hearing the tragedy of a friend. A loss so great, I could never fathom. And she described how the first thing she did was get online and blog about it. THEN she called her friend who was suffering acutely.

I am at a loss for words.

Took a half day

2006-04-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

My computer has been doing crazy things at work and so we sent it off to be reformatted. This has taken longer than I anticipated, so rather than sit around for the last half of the day twittling (is that how you spell it? I don't think I have ever written the word twiddling..twittling..twitelling...) my thumbs, I took a half day and went shopping with Mom.

It was fun. Hopefully the computer will be up and running tomorrow

..I have no use for the word "wah" so..run along you anonymous comment poster person...

Baby Watch

2006-04-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

The wife of the guy I work with is having twins. She is due at the beginning of June, but started having contractions this weekend.

So, it may be sooner rather than later that I will be doing this job all alone.

Bittersweet

2006-04-06T21:21:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the wedding reception of an old friend. He is 29, soon to be 30, and hasworked very hard at becoming who he felt a good husband should be. He has lived his life in pursuit of what he feels is Gods will for him. And I was so happy for him this day. He was excited beyond the bounds of the earth. She seemed nervous. Happy, but nervous. :)
I don't remember how the gym was dressed. I am sure the place was decorated, but all I remember was how happy my friend was. And I am so happy for him.

I saw another couple old friends, with their spouses. It was a good night for catching up with the old singles ward crew.

At the same time, I wonder. Where am I steering wrong? I am trying not to sound like I am feeling sorry for myself. Really, that is the last thing I need or want, but I think there comes a time when one has to ask this question.

Its not that I am alone. I don't think I am one of those people that can't be alone. My concern lays in the fact that I have always been alone. I've had one sigificant relationship in my life, which was doomed to fail before it began. But since, I haven't dated at all. I've not been asked in 8 years.

I am tired of this alone-ness. I am tired of putting on a brave face for friends and the casual aquaintances I have. I have such a capacity for love. There is so much inside me to overflowing. I know I would be a great spouse and mother. I KNOW these things so fiercly inside that the fear of never putting it to the test scares the hell out of me.

I've tried to be who I though others were interested in. And beleive me, I've been myself. I just don't know what I am doing wrong. Because obviously, I am switching it up somewhere.

I apologize for this bit of neediness. Tomorrow I will be brave again

Update on the whole Knitting thing

2006-04-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

goal project
Originally uploaded by Overjoyedgirl.

This is the blanket I most want to learn how to knit. So far, I have mastered the knit row, and the purl row, but can't seem to figure out the "knit,purl" row. I'm gonna have to step it up a knotch in order to make this afghan.

Feeling really safe

2006-04-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon, as I was walking toward my car, I saw a guy in a bright red ball cap, walking in the same direction. Being the kind of person I am, I wondered if he were going to try and get into my car. You know, the whole "worst case scenario" thought process.

Low and behold, he did! He opened the door and was in the process of getting into my car when I walked up and explained that it was mine. He jumped out and said, "oh, are you sure? I have a car like this h-here."

Yep, I am sure that the blue honda with the orange FLOWERS hanging from the rear-view mirror is mine!!! So I got in my car and drove it up to the front of the building. I told security about the situation, but by that time he had vanished.

Okay, so he only got one grimy foot into my car, but it left me with a feeling of violation. After work, I had to go vacuum the interior, cuz I just felt all creeped out.

Not to make it worse, but a co-worker of mine kept reminding me that it could have been worse. What if he had a gun? What if he hit you with something? You could have been seriously hurt. Yadda yadda. Now my stomach gets all curly when I walk to my car.

Celibate in the City

2006-03-31T21:59:00.000-07:00

The Cheese Stands Alone

As I have found myself in this same situation, I have decided to give the ole LDS Singles Online bit a chance. It turns out that they are having some kinds of anniversary sale and it will only cost $5 for a month instead of the usualy $12. I figure, if it turns out to be a disaster (as Kat found out for herself) I am only out five bucks.

I haven't had the greatest luck with the people I have met over the years on the world wide web, but I figure I have to do something right? I live too far from Salt Lake to be motivated enough to drive in every Sunday for church, so we shall see!

If you are interested in Celibate's blog, check out her post Dear Celibate from Disillusioned

She makes some fantastic points.

haven't done this in awhile

2006-03-31T21:55:00.000-07:00

1. Delve into your blog archive.
2. Find your 78th post (or closest to).
3. Find the seventh sentence (or closest to).
4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions.

"Once, I had to remind about 6 or 7 people not to jump on my roommates bed!"

talk about cutting off your arm

2006-03-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

I left my cell phone at home.

I hate that I have become so dependant.

Something bothering me

2006-03-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Anti-establishment people. Listen, I shop at Wal-mart because its cheap. I can't afford anything else. I like a nice mug of Chai, and if Starbucks is the only place on my way to work that sells it, well, I'm gonna shop there. So, get off your "I'm going to voice my self-righteous opinion just to be heard" high horse and stop complaining that you have a caffiene headache and go buy a latte. If you wanna talk about this, I will be at Wal-Mart looking for lime-green fingernail polish.

Black Horse and The Cherry Tree

2006-03-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

Music Video Codes By HotGet.com
FREE Myspace Profile Spy By WhosOnMySpace.com

While I was driving in my car

2006-03-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

Isn't it interesting how people automatically think that once they get into their vehicles, no one can see what they are doing?

The other day was a day for car watching. It started with the lady singing a desperately heartfelt and sad ballad into her mascara wand, and ended with the woman eating Alphabits cereal right out of the box.

I have fond memories of watching people in their vehicles. The old gentleman flipping his dentures over and over. The man who put two grapefruits under his shirt to similate fondling breasts in the carpool lane on the road into Los Angeles. My favorites are the dancers. The people so un-inhibited, with their windows down, and the radio turned up to its maximum capacity belting out the top "road-trip" song of the week. And the kids who "fly" their hands out the window.

Isn't it fun to turn to the left or right and know that someone is listening to the same song you are, singing along, just like you are...

Blanding, UT

2006-03-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was fun. Kat and I took her boys to Blanding to visit a friend, and hit some hiking trails. The weather was perfect, but the trip was pretty short. It only wet my appetite for a longer trip with some Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Goblin Valley time.