lucky's coming to town!

I'm so excited to see this cute thing! (Only five days and a wake-up.) She's so much bigger than the last time I saw her--why can't she just stay a baby?

Oh yeah, her mom's coming too! (I'm equally excited to see her.)

**This is one of my favorite pictures--Mandy with Grandad at NFR.

my new toy

It's sad when you're as excited as I am about a blender. But, trust me, it makes the best smoothies around (hey, they use them at Jamba).

huh?

I talked to a guy today who sells handbags online. These handbags are "vegan leather." Isn't leather by nature non-vegan? Did I miss something here?

babies

I sure miss this kid! I wish they lived in Utah (or at least closer) so I could visit more often. She is just growing way too fast. She looks so different than when I saw her (2 weeks before this picture was taken). Lucky, you need to tell your mom to bring you out to visit me soon! *Notice the adorable "party hat" to celebrate her 2 month birthday! My sister made it, isn't she amazing?

so cute

How can you resist that face? It's only been a week and I miss her a ton. Lucky, why must you live in Texas?

dallas cowboys

I spent the weekend in Texas visiting family and meeting my newest niece. Is it bad that I was equally as excited to go see this? Seriously, pictures don't do this place justice. It is gianormous! You can read all about it here.

dishes

For some reason, I have a love of dishes. I really want these 12 Days of Christmas plates. Anyone want to buy them for me? You can purchase them here.

{seen on yourheartout.com}

domestication

This weekend I made whole wheat bread, "molaskas" and crocheted an afghan for my niece, Lucky (more on this to come). That's a lot of homemaking for one weekend! I don't know which is worse that I spent my entire weekend being domestic, or that I enjoyed it so much.

love at first sight

Isn't she pretty?

It's the end of the world

So, my buddy at work is always talking about EOTW (End of the World). It's almost an obsession for him. He has food, blankets, lighters and all sorts of accessories stored and available when EOTW hits. Today, he gave me the coolest thing. Check this out. Now, I too, will be able to signal plans during EOTW. If anybody is looking for me, I'm on the roof practicing my plane signaling skills.

here's the proof

Ever heard of wakesurfing? I love when I get "paid" to do stuff like this! This morning for our team building activity, we spent a few hours on the lake. I got some good runs in on the wakeboard, and then got to try wakesurfing. I can't wait to get out again!

perfect cookies

As you may recall, one of my life long goals was to make perfect cookies. Well, as was previously stated, I have. Today this was reaffirmed. Today at work there was a chocolate chip cookie bake-off. This was not open to the general public, but rather to a select few employees with a reputation for making delicious cookies. Of course, I was invited to participate. And, I was the winner! I can now state that I make "award winning" cookies (and did so as I offered them to my co-workers). I was even accused of using a Mrs. Fields cookie recipe. This is not the case. The recipe is my own (slightly modified from other recipes). The real question is, should I post the recipe? Let me know what you think and why.

"a marathon is like life"

While attending the outdoor retailer show, I got to meet Bart Yasso. It is because of "Yasso 800s" that I ran my fastest marathon. I even got an autographed copy of his book. Here's what he wrote me:

A marathon is like life-- It's not how long it is But how good it is, is what matters.

aunt update

Here she is. Sadly, I won't get to see her until the end of September.

theme song

A friend at work sent me the following song: I have determined it could easily be my theme song as he refers to me as a "puma" (although technically I think I'd be a "cougar" because of my age.

baby boom

I'm an aunt, again. My sister Mandy had her baby yesterday......more to come.

the Smith in me

Recently, I had a wonderful treat--goat cheese with fig jam. It was so fantastic I had to share. So, I took some to my mother's house. While she liked it, she wasn't in love with the flavors they way I was. She then proceeded to tell me that I must get my affinity for fig jam from her father. He loved fig jam. In fact, he would make it and not even share because he enjoyed it so much. Well, figs are in season, and I decided to try my hand at some fig jam making. I'm sure that wherever he is, my Grandfather is smiling at my enjoyment this "lugubrious" delicacy! If you're interested, you can find the recipe here.

fear (and loathing)

If you're looking for a good time waster (and it is educational). Visit here. Anything you every wanted to know about phobias, but were afraid to ask (pun intended.)

pioneer day

In honor of the pioneers entering the Salt Lake Valley, there a a slew of events remembering "The Days of '47." Things such as a marathon, a 10K, a parade and other events. I'm not sure how such festivities relate to the pioneer. It seems that this year, the Osmonds are putting on a concert. Nothing says pioneer day like Donny and Marie Osmond singing "I'm a Little Bit Country/I'm a Little Bit Rock-n-Roll" or "Soldier of Love."

bling bling

Saturday, my brother called me as they were headed to Provo and told me to ask Posh what she wanted to do. When the arrived, I asked Posh and she replied, "get my bears bierced" (get my ears pierced). She has been asking to do this for about a month now, so her parents decided it was time. Since I've been a part of the other two girls, they invited me to go along!

She has no idea what she's getting into!

I think the ear marking might have been the worst part.

The second one wasn't so bad.

Look at that face!

Luckily, Daddy was there to hold her the entire time!

She did cry after being poked, but only for about 15 seconds. Once the girl offered her a lollipop, all tears ceased. All afternoon and evening she ran around showing everybody her ears. If you asked her what was in her ears, she'd reply "bling, bling." Probably because she got 4mm pink "diamonds." 4mm isn't very big, unless you're a tiny, little 2 year old! Apparently, she continues to show them off to anybody who will look! Glad she isn't too traumatized!

the punisher

There is a pigeon that sits on the ledge of the building next to my office. From our view out the 3rd floor window, you can see "the Punisher." The CE boys say he is a menacing bird and they are all afraid of him. Rumor says he has swooped toward the window and if you cross him, he'll attack you when you leave the building. I think the CE boys are a bunch of scardy-cats! It's just a little pigeon. How much damage can he do?

Feist

Last night we headed up to Deer Valley for the Feist concert. This is probably one of my favorite venues for a concert. And, I love Feist. Enjoy this little number for those of you that couldn't be there.

happy trails

One of my joys in life is trail running. I got into this a few years back and even created my own cross country camp with my girlfriend, belle. As Meggies is training for her first half marathon, we will occasionally run together. Since we typically run after work, and it is scorching hot, I suggested a trail run. We headed up to Millcreek and ran the upper portion of the Pipeline trail. It is a nice flat, easy trail. I'm so happy that she had fun and enjoyed her first trail running experience. We've decided to make this a weekly ritual. I can't wait for more fun trails with her!

how helpful is google?

Recently, I've set my home page at work to iGoogle. Everyday, they have a couple of "how to" items that you can link to. Today's item is "How to Date." Check it out here. I obviously need the help. Thanks Google!

Fresh fruits and vegetables

I'm so excited! I joined a CSA yesterday. Starting July 21st, every week I'll get a big box of organic fruits and vegetables from a local farmer. I can't wait to try new produce that I might never have experienced. I'll keep you posted about all the healthy stuff I'll soon be eating.

fresh herbs

Check out the yummy fresh basil and rosemary I got at the Farmer's Market. I'm so excited to cook all summer long with fresh herb.

munchkin time

I've been terrible about updating my blog lately. I figure better late, than never. So, here are a few pictures of some of the munchkins.

I love how much Lula (aka: Lyssa Lou) likes having her picture taken.

I think Gavin is the fattest baby. I love it! And, I love those chubby cheeks.

Brookie, Gavin and Lula. They sure do love their baby brother.

Brookie and Gavin.

Of course, Meggie had to get in on the action. OK, I think Lula insisted that she get a picture with Meggie!

apron

I have been looking for an apron for quite some time. Who knew I should have been looking at the Farmer's Market. Check out the cutie by Victoria White & Co. I purchased.

I love the "old fashion" look to the fabric.

I think the pockets are my fav. I love the pom-pom and the red polka dot fabric.

I really like attention to detail. I also love that she says her designs are for you to use now and to pass down to the next generation. When I'm in the market for another apron, or want a gift, I'll definitely check out her designs. If you don't live in the SLC area, check out her Etsy shop here.

looking forward to...

I'm so excited for the farmer's market in Salt Lake. I love fresh, locally grown produce. I'll definitely be checking it out throughout the summer.

who doesn't love a parade?

Saturday was Summerfest in Orem. Because my pops is currently driving the "clown car" we got to be in the parade. Unfortunately, I didn't take my camera. But, Brookie and I did get to poke out the sun roof and wave at all folks watching the parade. I even saw a few people I knew. Even though I'm all grown up, I have to say, I love being in a parade! It reminds me of summers in Snowflake, AZ and being in the Pioneer Day parade.

summer please!

It's June and there is actually snow falling (and sticking) in the canyons and mountain areas. I'm ready for 90 degree weather.

drive smarter

With gas prices the way they are, couldn't we all use a break? Check out what you can do to improve fuel efficiency and save a little money here. You might even lessen your carbon foot print. Originally seen here.

Happy Friday!

What makes Friday even better?

Cinnamon rolls from Kneader's. Thanks David!

And, homemade Texas Sheet cake. Thanks Nate!

It's a good thing I worked out extra hard at the gym this morning! Yum-O!

To my adoring fans

I am fully aware of the lack of blogging on my part. Let me apologize. I promise to post more soon. Love, Me

interesting

Thanks Hannah for introducing me to this site. I'm a little embarrassed at how well I relate to "#99 Grammar." Apparently, as was pointed out to me by Meggie, I've marked grammatical errors in books as I'm reading. Is it so wrong to want things to be grammatically correct?

Tapout

Yesterday at lunch, the guys from Tapout were there. Of course, I had to have my picture taken with them. I think these are just the kind of guys my parents dream of me marrying!

race for the cure

Yesterday, Meggie, her friend Ashley and I (and thousands of others) participated in Race for the Cure. I have to say this is one of my favorite 5Ks to run. No, the course is not a screaming fast down hill nor do they give away oodles of great swag. The beauty of this race is it's non-competitive nature and all the people. It is fun (and a little sad) to see who people are running the race to honor or celebrate. And, you will never see better slogans on t-shirts than at this race. If you're interested, search for a race in you area here.

I guess I have to start training

The results are in. Looks like I'll be running the St. George Marathon.

Devotion

Have you seen the inspiring billboards springing up across the country? Check out my favorite here. You can also read about "Team Hoyt." Truly an inspiring story. The first I heard of them was when watching NBC's coverage of the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii (1999 or 2000 I think). I cried throughout the coverage (and cry every time I read about them.) Although I didn't see them, I did run the Boston Marathon "with" team Hoyt in 2006.

Making a come back

The New Kids on the Block will always remind me of Jessica Esco. I'm so glad they're making a comeback. Check out their new single here.

quotables

Sometimes, it's fun to eaves drop on conversations in a public place. Upon listening to a conversation, the following were said: "If she were my friend, we'd be friends no longer." The woman at the table next to us leaned over and said: "Someday you'll be as cool as her."

5 days and a wakeup!

I'm so excited! My sister Mandy is coming to visit next week. I can't wait to see her pregnant belly, eat Cafe Rio, hang with the munchkins and have a fun baby shower. I only wish she lived closer.

Because Amy is one of my oldest and dearest friends...

The last 8 books I read:

1. Into the Wild
2. The Audacity of Hope
3. Love
4. Middlesex
5. The Road
6. The Great Gatsby
7. To Kill a Mockingbird
8. The Mist

8 things I say often:

1. I can't, I have to (swim, bike, run, get in a workout)
2. Fantastic!
3. It's great to be me!
4. Who's a skinny-minnie? You're a skinny-minnie (I'm trying to promote good body image to my nieces)
5. Loves
6. Thanks so much.
7. You're the best!
8. I'm just happy to be here

8 songs I never tire of listening to:

1. You and I--The Beatles (really, anything by them)
2. Liar--Built to Spill
3. Imagine--John Lennon
4. Fidelity--Regina Spektor
5. I Feel It All--Feist
6. Be Still My Heart--The Postal Service
7. If I Could I Would--Phish
8. anything on my ever expanding running play list

8 things I'm passionate about:

1. running
2. all things triathlon
3. family (especially all munchkins!)
4. ice cream
5. fabric, especially those by Amy Butler
6. cooking
7. shoes
8. crossword puzzles (and other trivia/word games)

8 things that attract me to a friend:

1. honesty
2. loyalty
3. passion for life
4. trusts me with their secrets
5. over look faults in others
6. has something new to teach me
7. quick to forgive
8. can laugh at/with me

8 things I want to do before I die:

1. finish an Ironman
2. travel
3. own my own business
4. write a book
5. run the NYC marathon
6. learn to play guitar
7. learn Spanish
8. finish all the projects I start

8 things I've learned (or re-learned) this year

1. I can finish triathlon without dying
2. I have greater tolerance than I realized
3. I'm blessed to have such loving and supportive parents
4. I can swim in open water
5. true friends are hard to find and even harder to keep, but worth all the effort
6. my 7 year old niece really does know everything
7. 36 is not as old as I once thought
8. I love getting older and (hopefully) wiser

8 random things about me:

1. In the 5th grade, my goal was to make perfect cookies (and I have)
2. Cross country camp is good for my soul.
3. I've run a half-marathon in 1hour 30minutes 36seconds (and will probably never be that fast again)
4. My proudest/happiest moment in life is crossing the finish line of my first marathon.
5. I LOVE puns (seriously, more than any person really should)
6. I might just be the teensy, tiniest bit OCD.
7. I still love to celebrate my birthday and love an entire day dedicated to me.
8. I love having family waiting for me at the finish line of a marathon (seeing my sisters 2 blocks from the finish at Boston was unbelievable)

Party decor

I'm always trying to find a good use for all the fabric I seem to collect (Thanks mom for that inherited trait!) I saw this on etsy and thought it would be such a fun banner to hang for a summer BBQ. And, I actually own about half the fabrics that are pictured here. Now I'll have one more project to start and not finish for at least a year!

What kind of sister am I?

Last night, I went to dinner at Market Street Grill in South Jordan. Our waiter was cute and seemed like a lot of fun. After finding out that he was 27, I determined that I really wanted to introduce him to my sister. Fortunately, he was very willing and even wrote her this note: How cute is that? I think my date thought me a little odd and couldn't believe I would do this. However, my motivation comes from a good place. I think Meggie is an amazing person; she does say, "I'm Megan, I'm amazing" and she's always right. She's beautiful, smart, talented, very creative and training for her first half marathon. (If you doubt me, check out her second blog here) She deserves a great guy! And, if I have to set her up with people I've just met, then I will. And, if nothing else, she'll make a new friend.

What a rivarly!

As the daughter of a die hard Yankee fan, I just thought this was funny. It's entertaining to see the lengths some fans will go to for good luck or to place a curse on their rival.

Did I miss something?

I really feel like I missed out on a part of my education; and all because I was born to soon! I had never heard of "The Oregon Trail" until my sister, Megan began discussing dysentery. I questioned her about this disease and she told me that when playing Oregon Trail, upon losing a player to death, a message stating "Johnny has died of dysentery" would pop up. Again today a co-worker mentioned Oregon Trail and couldn't believe that I had never played. Thanks Wikipedia for providing me with all the information I need and helping me prove that I was no longer in elementary school at the height of its popularity. According to Wikipedia, this game was popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. How sad I missed out on all the fun. It seems the game is still in circulation and available for purchase.

Hagermann's Bakehouse Cafe

Today for lunch, Amy and I decided to try a new place. We loved it. Such yummy tomato bisque and and fantastic grilled turkey sandwich. And the cookies: num-licious!! They're located in Draper (684 E. 11400S.) but totally worth the drive. Check out their menu before you go. Be sure to tell Dave hi and ask him about the only Hagermann in the place. And if you're as lucky as me, you'll get a second cookie for free---I love cookies and free cookies are even better!

Smart Money

My friend's (Rhielle) little sister made a short film for a "Be Money Smart" competition. See the film here; then vote to help her win. It's all done with Legos (I know there are a few Lego lovers in blogger-land!)

Jazz Game

Friday night I went to the Jazz game with Jim. We had great seats, which is always great. They played the LA Clippers and man are they bad! The Jazz were up by about 20 by half time. But, the game wasn't the most exciting thing that happened. President Monson was at the game with his wife. I wasn't close enough to get to talk to him or shake his hand. It was still pretty neat to see him there enjoying a game just like the rest of us.

Felxitarian

Apparently, I'm really out of the loop and not as up on words as I would like to be. I mentioned to my sister, Megan that I had heard a cool term that I was going to apply to myself: Flexitarian. Well, it seems this word has been around for quite some time and I just never knew! I think it is the perfect term to describe how I eat. After living with a vegetarian and being friends with a few in my life, I've realized that I love vegetarian fare, I just want the option to eat meat occasionally. Isn't it great that there is a word that allows us to be non-committal in our eating habits!

Spring bag

Don't you just love my new spring purse? Fortunately, it was on sale as I couldn't resist. I absolutely love it!

Cookbooks

I am a lover of cookbooks; a quality I definitely get from my Mom. Today at Costco I bought a pastry and a vegetarian cookbook. Fortunately, there are lots of pictures. Truth be told, I spend more time reading and looking at recipes than actually making anything from them. I've promised myself I'll make at least one recipe from each of these by the end of the summer. Here's to good eating!

Racing shoes

Check out these cool shoes. They are from Zoot, a tri company. They just slip on and you're ready to go. They are so light-weight and comfortable. Do you think they'll make me faster in my next race?

U2 3D

If you like the band U2 at all, this is a must see. Read more about it here. I saw it this weekend and loved it!

Ogio Bag

I love my new tote/computer bag. I only wish you could see the inside, the lining fabric is gorgeous and it's got great compartments. You can see more about it here if you're interested. Thanks Meggie for the hook-up!

"Tap Project"

Reading about this reminded me of my 5th grade teacher, Ms. Holmes. We spent many weeks talking about world hunger and what we could do about it. I think clean drinking water is a great cause and truly something necessary for all. Tap Project is operated through UNICEF and is asking for your support during World Water Week (March 16 - March 22). All they are asking is for a $1 donation for a glass of water that you would normally get for free. If you live in any of the cities where this program is being supported, you have a chance to give to a great cause. If you live in SLC, like I do, no restaurant is a part of this cause. You can still donate, but hopefully SLC restaurants will join in this cause.

A sure sign it's spring

Over the past two days I've seen many dogs out enjoying our spring like weather. Yes, many of them are with their owner, but far too many are not on a leash. I don't like feeling as though I'm going to run over your dog while exiting my garage, or driving on 2100 South. I do like the great spring weather we've been having. Unfortunately, I think we're getting snow soon.

Sweet Tooth

Anybody who knows me, knows that I love candy. Especially Easter candy. I don't know why, but it is the best stuff around. Unfortunately, I just found this on a friends blog. Sadly, I don't think this will keep me from eating an entire package of Peeps in one sitting!

The Great Northwest

I recently visited Portland, Oregon for work. There are a few things that make me love Portland:

1. Trader Joe's. I love this place and wish we had one in SLC. I'm all for health food stores and one that offers items at a discount makes me even happier. I even discovered a delicious treat: Dark chocolate covered dried blueberries; in my opinion these are healthy due to all the antioxidants.
2. No sales tax! Yes, their property taxes and state income taxes compensate for the lack of sales tax. However, I pay both property tax and state income tax in SLC and still have to pay sales tax. It's so great to go shopping and have the price listed be the price you pay, no guessing what the tax will be.
3. Sephora. Every woman knows what I'm talking about.
4. Lucy. This is a great little store that I found while in Scottsdale, AZ. They have cute, comfortable clothes. They are a bit pricey, but they have some great sales. If you live near one, I recommend checking it out. (All my Texas fans, there's one in Southlake Town Square)

As long as I have to travel for work, I figure I'd better find reasons to enjoy!

Carlucci's Bakery

A few weeks back Meggie and I went to lunch and this cute little bakery/deli downtown. The food was delicious. And, as if a cupcake with tons of frosting isn't great, they fill their cupcakes with the same frosting as used on top. If you're in the mood for delicious food and great baked goods check them out here.

It's been so long

So, it's been pointed out on numerous occasions that my blog hasn't been updated in quite some time. I have been bad about blogging lately. So much so, that I didn't even realize that I'd posted my 100th blog! I promise to be better and blog a little more often. Look for new posts coming this weekend.

New Talent (sort of)

I decided to try my hand at cake decorating. I helped a friend make this for his son's 7th birthday (he loves Legos). Thanks Mandy for showing me the cake!

My new hobby

This is my new guitar that I just bought on Friday. I can already play 2 chords (thanks to my friend Robbie)! I can't wait to learn to play an actual song. Any requests?

All things google

One of my favorite things is google text (thanks Meggie for introducing me to it!) You simply send a text message requesting the information you want to GOOGLE (466453) from your phone and you have access to any information you need. Its like having your own personal assistant right in your phone. You need a good sushi restaurant? Simply type "sushi" and your zip code and google will hook you up! I love living in the digital age.

Who doesn't want to be a rock star?

Who doesn't already know about Guitar Hero? Well, if that weren't enough, you can now start your own band just by using your video controller. Complete with drums, lead guitar, bass guitar and the microphone for your lead singer, Rock Band is porbably the coolest video game I've ever played. The only downside, you have to have at least two players for this game. Still, I love it and truly feel like a rock star while playing!

More Birthday Fun!

Lyssa Lou helping me open my present.

A "Super Girl" steering wheel cover. Lyssa, Brookie and I are the "super girls!"

Yes, that is a slab of marble. My mom had this in our kitchen growing up. She even beveled the edges herself on this piece for me. I'm so excited to have this in my kitchen to use when baking!

Me and the girls (Brookie, Lyssa and Posh). Aren't they adorable.

Blowing out the candles with a little help. Good thing too, I'm getting old!