Christmas the Carter Way

I really should be going to bed. My flight came in really late last night and I was up early for work this morning and yet I am drawn to the blog updating.

I guess I just wanted to provide a quick report on my short trip home for Christmas. I would have to say that I have only three regrets (or downsides) about the whole thing.

1. I regret not having more time to spend in Utah. I was sad when I was saying goodbye to my nephew Matt and letting him know I wouldn't see him again for awhile and his response was "what about New Years?" And it's true. I have not been away from my family for any New Years. This year will be weird. And along these same lines of regret, I regret that the time I had with Jacob and my family was so short.

2. Delayed flights are most definitely a downside. Not that there is anything I could do about it, but it stunk just the same.

3. I regret not having time to see more of my friends.

I also have several highlights...

1. The famous, and formerly exclusive, Carter talent show.

2. Homemade Christmas gifts, including slippers.

3. Games, games, and more games!

4. Food, food, and more food!

And...here are some pictures. It turns out I didn't take all that many photos. So, if you are interested in more incriminating photos you should check out my dad's blog.





Lauren enjoyed cleaning the beaters after making divinity.

This picture is just funny to me. Very funny.



Megan and Lauren loved the snow. Josh, Matt and Megan made a snow man on Christmas day.


It was the year of homemade gifts...and Scott and Mary Ann made these lovely, and comfy slippers for me.








Don't mess with D.

And for those of you who may have asked for it, here is a photo of the picture I painted for John and Megan. I was pleased with it overall...but shortly after taking this pictures something about the painting started bugging me. So I took it out of the frame and painted a little more on it before taking it to Utah and giving it away. I liked it a little better, but something is still not right with it. I get like that with things I make. I find something I don't like, generally something no one else would notice, and then it's all I can see. And that is why I am being a little cryptic about what bugged me because if I point it out that is all you will notice too.

A Change of Attitude

I am kind of a poorie.

For those unfamiliar with that term, it is frequently used by my family to describe a poor sport. A sore loser. Someone who can't play nicely with others.

And I am one of those today.

I am supposed to be leaving for Utah for my Christmas vacation and should be feeling all kinds of giddy. But, as much as I love the snow, I must admit that today it has done me wrong. My flight is already delayed and I wasn't scheduled to depart until 9:35 as it is. And I am definitely not happy about it.

Yep, I am a poorie. I need a change of attitude and I need it quick.

I guess I should take Jacob's advice and just be grateful I am still scheduled to fly at all. I should be appreciative that my flight hasn't been totally canceled. (Sorry about the game Jake).

I am excited about Christmas and look forward to the time with my family because they are amazing! And I am excited to introduce Jacob to them all. I am also excited that I won't be at work for the rest of the week.

Okay...this is helping a little.

And because I have been told posts without pictures don't get looked at, I will add the most recent of Jacob and I. We were downtown looking at the lights and saw that the city of Fort Collins apparently does not turn their fountain off. It's nicely frozen over. It was a frigid evening! But lovely just the same.

Enjoy! And thank you for joining me in my little pity party. I think I will be okay.

From Diana's Blog to My Blog

I saw this on D's blog and of course I loved it. I love lists and talking about myself. I can't help it, it's who I am.

Whats your Favorite brand of jeans?

Um...I don't know if I have a favorite. Anything I can get to fit right. My goal pair are silvers and I like 'em but I also like my Vanity jeans. They are comfy.

What is your favorite restaurant? What do you get there?

So many to choose from! I love the Bombay House in Provo and in Fort Collins I really like Sri Thai. But I don't think it's my favorite. I don't think I've found my favorite here yet.

What is your current favorite song?

I'm listening to Christmas music lately so I would probably have to say that I don't have a current favorite. But I have a current list of Christmas songs I hate most.

What's your "type"? Is that what you ended up with?

I'm not sure I've ended up with anyone yet. And I don't think I have a "type." Most of the people I have been interested in or dated have very little in common. But I do know that I am currently happy with the "type" I am dating.

What is something unusual about you?

I have lots of rules. Rules for ice cream. Rules about food on plates. And on and on. I also make everything into a game. If I am with someone and we can't decide on a movie to watch or where to eat I make it into a game of elimination.

How do you describe your everyday style?

I can't wear jeans to work except on Friday but I try to keep things casual just the same. I would really be most happy if I could wear stretchy pants and a hoodie every day.


What was the last book you read? How was it?

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn. Good. I am more ashamed by how long it's been since I last read a book. I intended to read A Christmas Carol before Christmas rolled around, but that's not happening.


What were the last three movie you saw? How were they?

White Christmas, Kung Fu Panda, and It's a Wonderful Life. I love the Christmas movies. I could take or leave Kung Fu Panda. But it was kind of fun.

What are your favorite TV characters?

Jim Halpert from The Office. I also like Barney on How I Met Your Mother. Not because he embodies anything that is good or admirable, just because he is funny.

You are asked to bring your best dish to a party, what do you make?

Depends on the party but I usually end up making something simple but tasty like a soup or pasta salad. I also really enjoy making bread lately.

What qualities do you find attractive in your significant other or a prospective one?

So many! He is one of those people that everyone gets along with. Very personable and fun. He is also intelligent and we have good conversations. But I think the thing that initially peaked my interest was when he looked up the rules to nertz to try and prove me wrong. I loved that.

Is there a song that everytime you hear it, it reminds you of a certain memory? What is it and why?

There are a lot of songs that take me back to a specific memory. I will name just two here. First, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" from the Lion King. It brings back memories dancing with Pat at an after school stag dance in 9th grade. So funny! And "Fly" by Sugar Ray. That brings back memories of the ShopKo parking lot with some of my best friends from high school. Also funny.

Do you swear?

Unfortunately I have to answer this one with a "sometimes." But I'm not very proud of it and am working very hard and cutting it out. It's difficult in my line of work. But there are no excuses for it.

What is your worst vice?

Self-pity and indulging in negative thoughts about myself. Also right up there is gossiping. Trouble.

Yeah yeah, being materialistic is bad. What is your favorite THING you own right now?

Hmmm...tough one. I might have to say my new shoes I bought for my birthday. Just because they are new and cute and comfortable and functional as they can be worn with skirts and jeans.

Coke or Pepsi?

Coke, diet.

Beach, Mountains, Big City, Country, or Desert?

Mountains for sure. No question about it!

Whats your favorite Candy?

So many! But I would have to go with something chocolate and caramel.

If you could dress your significant other (or prospective mate), how would you dress them? What do they usually wear?

He usually wears button up shirts and jeans or slacks. I really like when he just wears a t-shirt and jeans. I'm simple like that. As much as I don't care about what he wears, I would like to take him to a store and just dress him up. That makes him sound like he is a doll or something. But I think it would be fun. I love clothes shopping and I love picking stuff out for others and making them try it on. I do it with friends all the time.

What is your favorite dessert?

Ditto to Diana. Ice cream. I could eat it all day, everyday. D, could you make sure mom has a carton of Farr Peppermint stick when I come home next week? That would be great. Thanks!

Whats your least favorite fashion trend?

pegged jeans or acid wash. Not good folks, not good at all. Basically anything from the 80's should not be resurrected. It was not attractive.

How much did you love doing this?

A lot.

The Gingerbread House Mystery Resolved

Thanks to all who played my little game. The answer is...


Mine was the house on the left.

Jacob's the one on the right.

And I had to throw in these other two pictures because they demonstrate which one of the two of us is the greater perfectionist. That's right, not the girl who used to pull her hair out due to worry and stress over school work. No folks, it's computer engineer Jacob. Once Jacob described me as "easygoing" and maybe compared to him I am...I don't know. But I love that he thought I was easy going and I love that I probably AM a little more easygoing around him. Probably just one of the many reasons I love him.

I really enjoy this pictures for a couple of reasons. Yep, my house is fully assembled, and Jake is still working on his. I also learned that he sticks his tongue out when hard at work. I might love that a little too.



And here he is again, working away. Where was I? I'm pretty sure I was on the couch enjoying the movie "White Christmas," totally done with my house.

Merry Christmas to you all and especially to those who guessed right! You get the satisfaction of knowing you were correct as a special gift from me. Way to go!

Jacob, sorry no prize for you! Unless you count the privilege of my company as a prize. 'Cuz I think you got three whole days of it while we were building. Lucky you.

A 3 Stage Process

So, Jacob and I decided we wanted to make gingerbread houses. It seems that in years past when making gingerbread houses it was not as labor intensive as it was this year. This year it took 3 days. I have pictures of day 2 and 3 but not day 1. And you won't get to see the pictures until you play my game.

Here are a couple of pictures of the final products...





The game is to guess which is the house that Jacob built and which is the house I built. I'll post the rest of the pictures later on.

Moral of the story though, this was a good time! I really enjoyed listening to Christmas music, watching some Christmas movies, and building some houses with Jacob. I enjoy that Jacob is excited about Christmas (even if it was a little premature) and I am glad he comes up with fun ways for us to spend some time together and get to know each other just a little better. He's pretty great!

And, Jacob, I would appreciate if you don't play my little game since you already know the answer...

The Real Deal

For Shannon and D:



Yep, I made that.

Taught By My Mother

My mom would be proud, I think.

I made my very first batch of peanut brittle tonight and I must say it looks and smells delicious. I just finished so I haven't really sampled it, unless you count the "peanut brittle spoon" (which really brings back some memories), thus I'm not totally sure how it ultimately tastes. But I am confident it will be as good as it appears to be.

I realize I am indebted to my mother for passing on her tricks of the trade. A week ago I was discussing my plans to make peanut brittle with Jacob and he asked if I had a candy thermometer. I laughed, well it was more of a chuckle really, and then proceeded to explain that I didn't need one. I told my mother this story as I thought she would find it amusing. She responded that I didn't need the thermometer, not because of my own skills necessarily, but because of her years and years of ruined peanut brittle batches and experience in perfecting the art of peanut brittle making. And it is true. I am grateful my mom took the time to let us help her so I can enjoy passing this tradition on to others. Because really, how many people could make a perfect batch of peanut brittle on their first attempt?

Well, at least I think it's perfect. The spoon was delicious.

PS...the photo is one I found online. I'm too lazy to take a picture of my own success. But it does look remarkably similar to my own batch.

Let It Snow

I am so pleased right now. And here are the reasons why:

1. It snowed today. Big, fluffy flakes falling on and off all day. And it's supposed to continue on tomorrow! I am a firm believer that if it is going to be cold in December and January it also better be snowing.

2. My roommate, Heather, and I put up Christmas decorations this evening with the Muppet Christmas Carol on in the background. I love it! Both the decorations and the movie. I really love Christmas movies and may just make a list of favorites at a later date.

Okay, maybe there are just two reasons.

There is a third thing weighing heavily on my mind though...I will be turning 29...rounding the corner to 30. When, I ask you, did I get to be this old? It's not right. And I'm pretty sure turning 29 is going to be more difficult for me than turning 30. I may be weird, but I think having a year to think about the impending 30 will be more difficult than just actually being 30. Maybe...

Be Grateful

I realize this post is probably a little overdue as Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I'm still going to take a minute and enumerate some of the things I have been thinking about lately and am most grateful for.

1. Having just returned from visiting my family, I think I have to place them first on the list. I have such fantastic parents who are supportive and loving. I used to think of all the ways I wanted to be different than my parents. Now I think of all the ways I want to be like them. Plus I have had 7 pretty excellent examples in my siblings. I appreciate getting to know my siblings as friends. Turns out I like them not just because I have to. I would probably be friends with them even if we weren't related. And that is saying something! Good times with the Carter Clan! Very fun people. Even Mom.

2. Next on the list of gratitude would have to be my testimony of the truthfulness of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The things I know to be true about Jesus Christ and the potential for exaltation change the way I live. And I am grateful for that anchor in a world that often seems full of chaos. And I am most grateful that, while I'm not perfect, I can be made so through the Atonement.

3. I am grateful for my friendships. I have been blessed through my life with just the right people at just the right time. I have become who I am, in part, through the good influences of those I choose to associate with. I am grateful to maintain contact with many of those good people and for their continued positive influence on my life choices.

4. I am grateful for this time of year that provides a pause for reflection on the many blessings I have. I am also grateful that Thanksgiving sets the stage for celebrating the birth of Christ. I love Christmas time. I hate the commercialism, but I love the spirit of the season. I appreciate reflecting on how I can become more Christlike and then having to opportunity to set some concrete New Years resolutions to put those thoughts into action.

5. I am grateful this year for my education and the opportunities it has afforded me. I am grateful to be doing the work I do with the good co-workers I have as well as the crazy clients. I am grateful I get paid to try and help others.

6. I am grateful for nature and the beauty God has created. I love sunrises and sunsets. I enjoy all four seasons and the different beauty each brings. I look forward to the first real snow fall. I also am grateful for the beauty of Fort Collins and the chance I have to be living here.

Winner, Winner

Each week my supervisor comes to my office to provide me an hour of supervision to meet criteria for my LCSW license. She stepped into my office and said, "It is freezing in here." She then proceeded to instruct me to buy a heater and charge it to the company.

Done.

I will stop by Wal Mart tonight...maybe.

I Need a Heater

My office is frigid. I can't even really concentrate on work because my hands are like ice and I just want to curl up with a blanket and some hot cocoa to keep warm.

Stupid work in a stupid cold office.

Maybe I'm just distracted because all I really want is to be home right now. Not home, 10 minutes away home. Home, Utah home. I am ready for Thanksgiving right now!

I'd Hate to Disappoint

I'm sure any of you who have seen Aunt B's post knew this was coming. So here are more details than you need about me! Aren't you all so lucky?

Who are you? Hit forward and place an X by all the things
you've done and remove the X from the ones you have not.
Answer the 27 questions at the end and send it to your
friends (including me).
This is for your entire life!

(X) Skipped school?---PROBABLY MORE TIMES THAN I SHOULD HAVE

(X) Gone on a blind date?---GOOD TIMES
(X) Watched someone die
( ) Been to Canada
( ) Been to Mexico
( ) Been to Florida
(X) Been on a plane---QUITE A FEW TIMES
(X) Been lost
( ) Used a GPS---NOT PERSONALLY BUT I'VE BEEN WITH SOMEONE WHO WAS USING ONE
(X) Been on the opposite side of the country----THE EAST COAST IS A FANTASTIC VACATION DESTINATION
(X) Gone to Washington, DC----I WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK
(X) Swam in the ocean:
(X) Cried yourself to sleep
(X) Played cops and robber
(X) Recently colored with crayons:
(X) Sang Karaoke----LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT!
(X) Paid for a meal with coins only---MAYBE AT A WENDY'S DRIVE THROUGH OR SOMETHING LIKE THAT.
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't---SO MANY TIMES. SOMETIMES GOOD THINGS COME IF IT, SOMETIMES NOT SO MUCH.
(X) Made prank phone calls---YES. SEVERAL TIMES.
() Exercised today ....... IT'S SUNDAY. I WAS TOLD I'M NOT SUPPOSED TO BREAK A SWEAT OR IT'S BREAKING THE SABBATH
(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose---PROBABLY BUT I DON'T REMEMBER THE SPECIFICS
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue---STILL ONE OF MY FAVORITE THINGS TO DO WITH THE FIRST SNOW FALL.
(X) Danced in the rain---SOMETIMES PLAYING IN A WARM SUMMER RAIN CAN'T BE BEAT.
(X) Used a Palm Pilot---YES, BUT I PREFER THE GOOD OLD FASHIONED PAPER PLANNER I HAVE NOW.
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus:
() Been kissed under the mistletoe
() Shaken a movie stars hand
() Watched the sunrise with someone you care about
(X) Blown bubbles –
(X) Gone ice-skating---I LOVE ICE SKATING.
( ) Watched a sonogram to first see your child or grandchild:
( ) Been skinny dipping outdoors
(X) Gone to the drive-in movies---YEP, BUT I MISSED IT THIS YEAR.


1. Any nickname? YES...LOADS...SANDY, SAND, DRAPEY, JUST TO NAME A FEW

2. Sisters name? LYNDA, SHANNON, MARYANN, MARY ANN (IN-LAW), KAREN, DIANA, MEGAN (IN-LAW)

3. Favorite drink? WATER

4. Tattoo? I USED TO WANT ONE.

5 Body Piercings: JUST MY EARS
6. How much do you love your job? ON A SCALE OF ONE TO TEN I GIVE MINE AN 8

7. Birthplace: PROVO UTAH
8. Favorite vacation spot? SOMEPLACE NEW. IT'S MORE ABOUT WHO I AM WITH THAN WHERE I AM AT.
9. Ever been to Africa? NO AND IT'S NOT HIGH ON MY LIST OF PRIORITY
10. Ever eaten cookies for dinner? PROBABLY
11. Ever been on TV? YEP...PRICE IS RIGHT!
12. Ever steal any traffic signs? NO, I WAS A PRETTY GOOD KID.
13. Ever been in a car accident? A FEW...BUT NONE OF THEM WERE MY FAULT!
14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? 4 DOOR
15. Favorite salad dressing? RANCH BUT OCCASIONALLY I LIKE BLUE CHEESE OR ITALIAN

16. Favorite number? I PROBABLY DON'T HAVE ONE SO WE'LL SAY 5

17. Favorite movie? ABOUT A BOY
18. Favorite holiday? I AM WITH YOU JOSH: CHRISTMAS WITH 4TH OF JULY AS A VERY CLOSE SECOND

19. Favorite dessert? ICE CREAM. AND JOSH MENTIONED A REALLY GOOD TREAT SO I'LL STICK WITH HIS...PEPPERMINT ICE CREAM AND MOM'S HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE SAUCE.
20. Favorite day of the week? SUNDAY OR SATURDAY

21. Favorite brand of body wash? I PREFER SOAP

22.. Favorite Toothpaste? I DON'T REALLY CARE

23. Favorite smell? FALL LEAVES, JUST BEFORE IT SNOWS, BAKING BREAD, OR BAKING ANY KIND OF TASTY DESSERT

24. What do you do to relax? WATCH TV OR MOVIES, BROWSE THE INTERNET

25. How do you see yourself in 10 Years? MARRIED WITH A FAMILY
26. Furthest place you will send this message? PROBABLY ALABAMA, NO WAIT CHINA

27. Who will respond to this the fastest? ??????

Walrus

Walrus is a locally owned and operated ice cream shop that happens to be about a 1/2 block away from where I work. They have delicious ice cream. I may even like them better than cold stone.

Rise and Shine

So, 7 am for a session with my personal trainer...not too shabby. We'll see how the rest of the day goes, but I might become converted to morning workouts. Maybe.

I do think I am going to be feeling some serious soreness today and tomorrow. I haven't worked my muscles quit like this in a long time. I'm ashamed to admit how lazy I have been over the past year and a half. It's sorry really. But all that will change.

Now if I could just motivate myself to work on my lousy eating habits. But ice cream is just so good, and Walrus is just too close!

Game On!

I'm a pretty simple person. It doesn't take much to make me happy or entertain me. Give me a good group of people and a good game and I am a happy girl!

And last night I was a very happy girl.

I am a gamer. I love games! It doesn't even matter what kind of game. I love boardgames, card games, and sometimes even those cheesy group games every BYU student has played at some FHE or ward activity.

Yesterday I got to play one of my favorite games: Chinese Checkers.

I play this one quite regularly with Jacob. I think he plays not just to win points for feeding my Chinese Checkers obsession, but because he likes the game as well. Which really is a bonus. But I digress. The moral of the story is, he usually wins. I have been utilizing my time tested strategy against him. It never fails. Well, clearly not never. But Jacob is only the second person to beat it. The first time the strategy failed I lost a couple of games in succession to a kid in my ward and it actually turned kind of ugly. I had to ban myself from playing for awhile. Again, I digress. So, I demanded a rematch last night because I had thought up a new plan. A new strategy that I thought just might throw Jacob for an unexpected loop. It worked! I won. And I was happy. (It should be noted that I have learned to control my poor losing reactions since the infamous ban from the Chinese Checkers, and can actually enjoy playing even if Jacob wins).

I also had the chance to learn a new game. It's called LOSER. And obviously with a name like that it was bound to be a good time. And it really was. I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard my stomach hurt. But this was real, belly aching, laughter folks. I intend on passing this game on over the holidays. It is certain to be worth repeating. I don't think I won one round of the game, but man was it fun! It might have had something to do with the crazy fun people I was playing with too. Good times.

I also thought I'd take a second and make a TOP 10 GAMES list, though it is a very rough draft.

10. Muggins (Just for the Christmas Eve memory it evokes)
9. Speed (A classic and a real good tournament game)
8. UNO- house rules.
7. Balderdash (Remember Dad laughing SO hard at poopclinch (was that the word?))
6. Scum (Some really good stadium terrace memories)
5. Rook (a family classic)
4. Catch Phrase
3. Time's Up (a recent favorite)
2. Clue (I almost never lose)
1. Chinese Checkers

Yeah, making that list I realize all the good memories of friends and family associated with a good game night. So much fun!

"I Wish My Life Could Feel Like a High School Musical."

Go ahead, mock me. I deserve it.

I am a sucker for "teen pop trash." I enjoy almost any cheesy, ridiculous movies set in high school. I sometimes even indulge in a little "pre-teen pop trash." Like this afternoon. I have the day off for Veterans Day and so I took the opportunity to go see a matinee movie all alone. I enjoy going to movies alone and usually feel no accompanying shame. Not today. I felt the shame but I persevered. I felt the shame so keenly I couldn't even purchase the ticket from an actual person. I opted for the machine. The shame comes not from going alone, but from going to see High School Musical 3 at the fine age of 28.

But guess what? I liked it. Not that the plot was anything remarkable, or some of the singing, or the acting for that matter. But man...I love a high school musical. I don't wish I were back in high school by any means, but I do wish that the biggest worries I had were about being asked to prom or passing high school finals. And maybe I also wish I were a little bit more like I was in high school. I remember feeling like anything was possible and I had all kinds of romantic ideas and ambitions.

Turns out I am pretty practical. I guess that's what age does for you. I grow a little more skeptical and cynical every year. Or is it just having more realistic expectations?

I guess I'm also feeling a little pensive about high school and how I've changed because I dug out "the list" that was created up in a cabin, in Island Park, with my 6 best friends. "The list" comprises all the characteristics and qualities I wanted my future spouse to have and how I saw my future going. Nothing is really how I imagined it would be when I was 17. Okay, maybe not nothing, but definitely most things. And actually, I am grateful. There is no way the 17 year old version of myself could have known what the 28 year old version would need. If I had to recreate that list (which I will never do) there would be very few things that remained the same. I am a different person than I was at 17 and I place greatest value on some very different things.

It's also interesting how much I am the same. I'm still sarcastic (despite my numerous efforts to change), I'm still really trying to get comfortable in who I am and who I want to be (though I have become much more self-confident than 17 year old Sandy), and I'm still probably 12 at heart.

I guess that's why High School Musical 3 and other such "teen pop trash" speaks to me.

For Shannon

Which are you more grateful for?

Ghiredelli or Guittard? Guittard.

Morning or Evening? Evening. I love staying up late. I love the stars. I love getting off work. And most of all I love dusk and a good sunset.

Bagels or muffins? Muffins, and now thanks to Shae I am craving a Mimi's Cafe honey bran muffin.

Computers or Cell Phones? Computers

Cotton or Polyester? Cotton. Definitely cotton.

Tennis or Bowling? Bowling though I am no good at either.

TV or Radio? Television. A time sucker for sure but one I am grateful for.

Military or Police Force? Military, maybe just because I feel a little more connected through Jason.

Electricity or Plumbing? Hmmm...this is tough but I think I side with Shannon...plumbing.

Spiders or Snakes? Snakes. I like snakes, well most snakes. Not that I want them creeping all over my house or anything. But, I hate spiders.

Elementary teachers or high school teachers? High School. Maybe just because I was more relaxed in high school and learned to appreciate learning for learning's sake.

Books or Magazines? Books. I wish I was more well read. It's a goal really. And occasionally I will go to the book store and pick up a few classics just to have on hand. I am currently in between books so I'm asking for feedback on which of the unread novels on my bookshelf I should pick up first. The Poisonwood Bible, The Count of Monte Cristo, Great Expectations, or The Picture of Dorian Gray?

Money or Time? Time. I wish I had more of it and I wish what I did have I used more effectively.

Pumpkin or Pecan pie? No to Pumpkin. And absolutely yes to Pecan.

Summer or Winter? Winter. Though that is changing as I have greater difficulty staying warm. Not sure what that is all about. I pretty much have to have a jacket with me all the time. Even in the summer.

Sewing machine or Washing machine? Sewing machine. I get the day off tomorrow (I know it's strange) and I intend on working on a quilt that I started a few months ago. Really I intend on finishing piecing it all together.

Board games or card games? Ewww....this is hard. But I think I have to say boardgames as my favorite games continue to be of that variety (clue, Chinese checkers) but I also really love a good card game. I'm just a gamer in general.

Mountain or Beach? Mountains, no question. And it turns our I really prefer the Utah mountains. I appreciate others but I LOVE Provo Canyon.

Spring or Fall? Fall. I love everything about it!

Christmas or Thanksgiving? Christmas. I love the spirit that comes with the holiday and I love having time to reflect on the birth of Christ. I also love all the family traditions. I find myself becoming very excited about it all. The excitement doesn't usually hit until after Thanksgiving for me but this year I have outside influences (read: Jacob) that are promoting early Christmas excitement.

Blogging or Facebook? Blogging. Who would have thought? Though a good Facebook stalking session is always a good time.

Chili's or Applebees? No doubt about it, Chili's. Especially since Applebees got rid of their sizzling Caramel apple pie. It was the only thing worth eating on the menu.

Carpet or Hardwood? Carpet. I'm not sure why. Maybe because I haven't really lived with hardwood.

Dishwasher or Microwave? Totally the dishwasher. I hate doing dishes.

Boston or Las Vegas? Boston.

Ballet or Baseball? Baseball.

Mashed potatoes or Candied yams? Mashed potatoes. I don't care for candied yams. I eat the obligatory tablespoon full each Thanksgiving to see if my tastes have changed, but they haven't.

Milk or Juice? Milk...not to drink because that is a big no in my book. But I do love milk products. Especially ice cream. I've been known to say that in Heaven I think I will be able to eat ice cream for every meal with no negative consequences. I love ice cream!

Lincoln or Washington? Lincoln. Did you know he was 6' 4"? I have always had a bit of a fascination with Abraham Lincoln. I did a report on him in the 5th or 6th grade. I have a bunch of his speeches that I intend to read. And I used to have the Gettysburg address memorized.

Homemade or Store bought? Homemade!

Shannon: From the blog you want to copy, highlight the text. Right click and then click copy. Open your blog and paste the copied text in your new post. Hope that helps! And thanks for the fun list...I love 'em!

Missing Home

I am sitting here in my living room and my house is full of the smells of fresh apple cake and I am missing my family just a little. It's amazing how much a little smell can affect a person. I'm also amazed at how homesick I become. I don't remember feeling homesick so often last year. And I wonder if I will ever think of Fort Collins as home. No slight to the Fort...it is a great place...and I'm happy here. It's just not home.

I Might Be A Sucker...

So, the story goes like this...

A couple weeks ago I joined the gym. It had been far overdue as I really let myself get back out of shape since Graduate school. With the gym came a free consultation with a personal trainer. In my 2 gym experiences prior to this I had always bypassed the free consultation but, for some reason, this time I decided to check it out. I went this morning and I was surprised by how much I was liking it. I had my measurements taken (not fun), skin fold fat test (really not fun), and then the trainer had me squat several times to see where my muscle weaknesses might be. The whole process was fascinating. Then she took me through several exercises. Turns out I have been lunging wrong (or at least less-effectively) for several years now. I really didn't do that many exercises but I can already feel the muscle soreness because they were executed properly and really targeted the muscles to be worked. We also talked a bit about nutrition. I know I don't have the best eating habits so she discussed accountability and tracking what I eat. The gym has an online program to enter everything you have eaten in the day and then the trainer can check out what you have consumed.

At the end of it all she asked if I was interested in buying an introductory package to meet with her for 5, one hour sessions. Here's where I really surprised myself, I SAID YES! What!?! Then to add to the shock of this whole experience, I scheduled two of those sessions at 7 am. I am not a morning workout person!

All this leads me to wonder what came over me this morning. Weird....

Computers Crashing

Our computers at work keep crashing and it's basically driving me crazy. So I decided I would take a few minutes and do this little quiz that I saw on another friends blog. I really am ridiculous when it comes to these things. I love 'em! (Thanks Kim!)

You can only type ONE Word! Not as easy as you might think. Change the answers to suit you and pass it on. It's really hard to only use one word answers.

1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Where is your significant other? work
3. Your hair? short
4. Your mother? FUN
5. Your father? tall
6. Your favorite thing? people
7. Your dream last night? forgettable
8. Your favorite drink? water
9. Your dream/goal? health
10. The room you're in? office
11. Your hobby? crafting
12. Your fear? loneliness
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? family
14. Where were you last night? Jacob's
15. What you're not? Easygoing :)
16. Muffins? okay
17. One of your wish list items? clothes
18. Where you grew up? Orem
19. The last thing you did? evaluate
20. What are you wearing? jacket
21. Your TV? small
22. Your pets? none
23. Your computer? Dell
24. Your life? fantastic
25. Your mood? annoyed
26. Missing someone? always
27. Your car? dirty
28. Something you're not wearing? earrings
29. Favorite store? Target
30. Your summer? short
31. Like someone? YES
32. Your favorite color? Red
33. When is the last time you laughed? minutes
34. Who will retake this? unknown

A Good Weekend

I had a really enjoyable weekend with my guests Tyler, Scott and Mary Ann. I guess I should really only call Mary Ann my guest since the boys were here for the BYU vs CSU football game. I was really just a place to crash. But, I suppose if I were forced to choose a highlight of the weekend I would have to choose the game too. It was a close game, way more close than it should have been, but it made it exciting. I haven't been to a football game in ages and I sort of forgot how much I enjoy watching it live. Especially with good company. I appreciate that Jacob is a little bit of a rambunctious fan. People that just sit there and don't cheer drive me a little bit crazy. Why pay the money if you aren't going to get into it and appreciate the atmosphere? I don't get it.

I think my favorite part of the game was walking through the CSU student section after the BYU victory. CSU fans are a little rowdy. It was pretty funny when a group of hecklers saw all of our BYU blue and changed their language from pretty crass to a more cleaned up vocabulary. I think they thought they were mocking us when they said stuff like "dang" and "shoot" instead of the actual words. Turns out the cleaned up language was just appreciated. Can't say I've ever been heckled like that before.

I also learned this weekend that I will NEVER again play CLUE with Tyler. There are a few games that I consider "my" game. CLUE is one of them. I don't lose. At least not very often. And I take it very seriously. Tyler did not. I know that is shocking, but it's true. And I lost. Scott won. It was a total fluke and it won't happen again! Bring it on Scotty!

So...I don't have any pictures to prove it was a good time but I do have some that I recently received from Jacob's sister. They were taken when she was out for a visit earlier this month. So, I'm going to attach them just because I'm told some people only look at the pictures and some of them are pretty fun.


You can't really tell, but I am in Sunday clothes. We just got out of church and the leaves were irresistible. We didn't have rakes so Rachel and I began kicking the leaves into a pile. It caught on and several others came out and joined us. I jumped in twice in my skirt and nylons. It was fun, but I don't recommend it. You can tell by the next picture it was slightly awkward, and the leaves stuck to my nylons, corduroy skirt, and sweater like crazy! Still a good time...


These were taken in Rocky Mountain National Park.


Jacob and his youngest sister, Rachel.

I Can't Resist a List

While I wasn't officially tagged, I saw this on Kim K's blog and I really couldn't pass up the opportunity to create some lists. I love lists! So, while I should be going to bed, I am sucked into blogging...

8 Things...(in no particular order)

8 shows I like to watch...
1-The Office. I could (and maybe do) watch it over and over again. It just gets more funny every time.
2-Pushing Daisies. If you haven't seen this show I highly recommend it. It is clever.
3-Everwood. Why do all the good shows get canceled? Luckily I have them on DVD.
4-Samantha Who? Also a pretty entertaining show that currently airs.
5-How I Met Your Mother- I check them out from netflix. I think I am 2 seasons behind but I do like it.
6-Eli Stone. It's a current one. And I don't know why I like it so well, but I really do.
7-My So Called Life. Classic, early, teen pop trash. So much angst! And I don't regret purchasing those DVD's for a minute.
8-Ed. This is a show that I adored when it was on and I am forever saddened that you can't get it on DVD. It's a tragedy really.

8 things that happened yesterday...
1-I was on time for work. Amazing.
2-I went to the gym for the second day since joining. And it was a good workout...I feel it today!
3-I covered a group for a co-worker on vacation and it was...well, it was interesting.
4-I watched stars falling while comfortably seated on Jacob's couch.
5-I had a conversation with a co-worker, who is pretty anti-religion, about the Word of Wisdom.
6-I ate Kilwin's chocolates.
7-I forgot about signing up to feed the Missionaries. Good thing they called to cancel the appointment anyway. That could have been very awkward and unfortunate.
8-I met with my supervisor at work and really enjoyed her feedback about my therapeutic skills.

8 things I am looking forward to...
1-Tyler coming to visit.
2-Scott and Mary Ann coming to visit.
3-The Office tomorrow.
4-The BYU football game on Saturday.
5-Taking a co-worker to church with me on Sunday.
6-Thanksgiving.
7-Christmas.
8-Seeing all my family (except Shannon and kids) during the holidays.

8 favorite places to eat...
1-Cafe Rio
2-The Bombay House
3-Big City Burrito
4-The Spicy Pickle
5-The Olive Garden
6-Outback Steakhouse
7-Mom's house
8- Jacob's house (I do enjoy when he cooks for me!)

What's My Age Again

So, I realized a couple of things the other day. 1: My hair is getting long enough I can force it into pig-tails. 2: I am approaching 30 and excited by the fact I can put my hair in pig-tails.

I really was so excited by the possibility of pulling my hair back that I debated several times this week if I could get away with it at work. (The debate never lasted very long. I'm pretty sure I already have a hard enough time with people taking me seriously as a therapist. Throwing my hair in pig-tails probably wouldn't help.) But I was pretty excited to try it out tonight!

So here are some pictures...



I can't believe I am so excited about pig-tails that I'm posting about it.

Maybe more than you wanted to know...

I don't know why I love these things so much, but I really do. I always fill them out! I'm a sucker for it.

ODD Things about you! FILL IT OUT!Learn things about your friends, and let them learn about you!Make sure you send it back to the person who sent it to you!

1) Do you like blue cheese? yes
2) Have you ever smoked marijuana? No
3) Do you own a gun? No
4) What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? I used to be a big fan of the strawberry limeade. Can't say I've had a sonic beverage in quite some time.
5) Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Every time. What don't I get nervous about????
6) What do you think of hot dogs? pretty disgusting in general, but I surprise myself by how I seem to be liking them more and more. Enjoying a hot dog general requires perfect conditions though. I have to be in the mood and they MUST be grilled.
7) Favorite Christmas song? Perhaps the classic Silent Night or Away in a Manger. But I love Harry Connick Jr's first Christmas album and it's not really Christmas until I hear The Carpenters and Bing Crosby. Classics!
8) What do you prefer to drink in the morning? Water. I generally prefer water to any drink.
9) Can you do push ups? Sadly, no. Diana and I spent a lot of time trying to get to the point where we could but I'm pretty sure it's just not in my genes.
10) Can you do a chin up? Not even close.
11) What's your favorite piece of jewelry? the ring I should have bought last week.
12) Favorite hobby? I enjoy quilting, card making, and pretending to watercolor.
14) Do you have A.D.D.? Not at all. I am more the OCD kind of gal.
15) What's one trait that you hate about yourself? Today I would have to say I hate that I don't think before I act. You would think I would learn my lesson, but I find myself in new predicaments every day because I don't think things through. Tomorrow I'll probably find something new to hate.
16) Middle name? Nope.
17) Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? I should be going to bed, I need to read my scriptures, and I should put my hoodie on because I am cold.
18) Name 3 things you bought yesterday: Lunch at the Spicy Pickle, and the other things are probably best unmentioned.
19) Current worry? Too many to enumerate. I am a worrier. I worry about everything.
20) Current hate right now? Ummm...probably something about work but nothing is coming to mind. That is probably a good thing, right?
21) How did you ring in the New Year? Chillin' with the family in Utah! Good times always abound with the Carter Clan and New Years.
22) Where would you like to go back to visit? Right now I would be pretty content to spend some time with the family in Utah. I think I am a little homesick with the Holiday's approaching.
24) Do you own slippers? Not so much. Some slipper socks that are cozy, but no actual slippers.
25) What shirt are you wearing? White tank top and just about to put on a grey CSU hoodie.
26) Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Nope, just plain old cotton for me thanks!
27) Can you whistle? Not as well as I would like.
28) Favorite color? RED
29) Would you be a pirate? what a weird question....and...no.
30) What songs do you sing in the shower? None. I usually do some serious thinking in the shower though.
31) Favorite girl's name? I don't think I have one right now.
32) Favorite boy's name? I am strangely drawn to the name Gideon, but I have always loved Ammon.
33) What's in your pocket? No pockets in my PJs
34) Last thing that made you laugh? I'm pretty sure it was Jacob tonight.
36) Worst injury you've ever had? I stepped on a nail once...that is about it. I've been pretty accident free. It comes along with the worry. Worriers are not risk takers.
37) Do you love where you live? I love my roommate but I really can't love the cats. The house is nice though.
38) How many TVs do you have in your house? 3 but no cable. So they are only really utilized for movie watching.
39) Who is your loudest friend? Lori's laugh is pretty stinking loud and also pretty fantastic.
40) How many dogs do you have? 0
41) How many cats do you have? 0, but, as previously mentioned, my roommate has 2.
2) Does someone have a crush on you? I'm pretty sure this kid named Jacob does.
43) What is your favorite book? I really love the Anne of Green Gables series and of course Harry Potter. But I don't know if I really have a favorite book.
44) What is your favorite candy? MMMM...candy! I love anything with chocolate and caramel but I'm pretty sure I will eat just about any candy. Oh...I really enjoy Reese's pieces.
45) Favorite Sports Team? BYU Cougars! Or none...take your pick.
46) What song do you want played at your funeral? I really don't know. I would have to think about this some more. Maybe "Lead Kindly Light," it is a favorite.
47) What were you doing at midnight last night? Reading blogs, I think.
48) First thing you thought about when you woke up? Praying and feeding the cats. I can't remember which came first.
49) Favorite Bath and Body fragrance? Coconut Lime Verbena, for sure!
50) Favorite childhood memory? There are so many to choose from! I loved my childhood. I have fantastic siblings who made things interesting. I remember putting on plays for my parents. Lynda would direct the whole production and it was intense. We would all have to pitch in to buy treats for the performance and we rehearsed all the time. I also have very fond memories of playing games, both board games inside and playing together outside too. I also enjoyed swimming with my family. My parents are also pretty great. I remember dancing with dad and he would do the twist, bringing his one leg into the air. That leg used to look so long. I also always enjoyed going on picnics. I remember lying beside my mom and chatting on the purple, silky picnic blanket. And going on walks as a family, or bike rides, down to Vineyard or through BYU campus back when campus was awesome with all the fountains and such. Don't even get me started about Holiday goodness...I could go on and on. Good, good times!

Apparently I'm It (along with all of Laura's cousins)

That is the 8th photo from my 10th folder. It's not the most centered of pictures but I thought it fitting that it was taken two Halloweens ago. Check out those amazing lashes! My roommates and I got dressed up to go to "Witches Night Out" at Gardner Village. It was pretty fun and we got to eat some fried green tomatoes. Tasty!


And here is a better shot.

Also, I tag anyone who is not related to me and is reading this now. (Especially Jacob, Kim K., Kim S., Trine, Nancy, Amanda, and Mo.) Post your 8th photo from your 10th folder.

Tomato Gravy and Homemade Bread

Yep...I made them both.

I made whole wheat bread last night and it is delicious. I made it with the intention of eating with tomato gravy and I made that tonight. I think that may be my comfort food. It reminds me of growing up and being with my family in all the good ways. Not like the bad memories associated with liver or split pea fritters.

The tomato gravy (which is really just tomato soup for any of you who may be thinking that sounds disgusting) was a little disappointing because I couldn't find really good tomatoes and I didn't want to wait for the farmers market this Saturday. Plus it's just getting to be a little late in the season for those really excellent tomatoes. But...it was pretty tasty just the same.

It filled me up and made me feel nostalgic all at the same time.

Breckenridge

I just got back from a conference for work that was held in the lovely ski resort town of Breckenridge. I drove up on Sunday and it got a little sketchy near the Loveland pass with a lot of rain and some snow. But aside from that it was a really gorgeous drive and an enjoyable conference. I think I even learned a thing or two that I will implement in the work I do.

Here are some pictures of the fun and beautiful Breckenridge.

I woke up to a dusting of snow Monday morning. It was cold and beautiful all at the same time.

My hotel


The fall colors as I was walking to main street.

Main street

From down town looking toward the ski slopes

I LOVE THE FALL!!!

I'm not the best of spellers

So...many of you pointed out that in my last post I spelled conquer wrong. I thank you for pointing it out as it reminds me once again that I never was, and clearly still am not, a spelling wiz.

I'm reminded of spelling bees in elementary school where I would miss the easy words and get out in the first round. I was once asked if I purposely missed the word just to get out early and not have to deal with participating in the bee. I quickly responded "yes" and knew that I would have to repent for telling that lie so willingly.

The funny thing about the wrong spelling of conquer...I knew it looked incorrect but for the life of me I couldn't figure out the right spelling. I figured spell check would catch the error. Turns out, spell check doesn't catch words spelled correctly but misused. Hmm...oh well. Here's hoping this post fares better!

Bravery

I realize I have never been a very brave or adventurous person. I don't like feeling out of control. Fear of being out of control, and perhaps severely injuring myself, has prevented me from doing a lot of things. Today I stood at the top of several little hills covered in rocks, sand, and loose gravel and tried to conquer some of those fears. The fear won. That's right, I'm a scaredy!

Jacob and I went for a little bike ride this morning. I am really comfortable with riding on the road or the sidewalk but I've always wanted to try a little bit of actual trail riding. So we headed up to a local state park that has several single track trails of varying difficulty and I gave it my best effort. Turns out my best effort isn't that great. This was only my second time off-roading and this was more scary than the first time for sure. I think I psyched myself out thinking about all the potential crashes, analyzing every little bump or rock in the trail, and studying just how skinny the trail is which leaves very little room for error. I psyched myself out so badly I pretty well walked down most of the steeper hills. And I was on "easy"trails the whole ride. Seriously, I am a little bit ashamed of myself.

On the other hand, it was a beautiful morning with the leaves beginning to change and it was good to get out and do something active. I really did have an enjoyable time despite my inability to conquer the fear. But now it's become a little bit more of a challenge for me because I don't appreciate the extent of the fear and it's debilitating affects. I want to be able to ride the easy courses without batting an eye. So...something to work on I guess.

Speaking of things to work on...
I was also able to watch the afternoon session of conference today. I love general conference! I appreciated Elder Holland's talk on angels and I want to do better at being a little more compassionate and loving so I can be more in tune with opportunities to help others around me. I continue to become increasingly aware of how selfish I am. I want to do better at that. I also really enjoyed Elder Bednar's remarks on making prayer more meaningful. Again, this is certainly an area I can improve in. I was discussing this talk with a friend of mine and we were both remarking how strange it is that we had not been more aware of the connection between morning and evening prayers. It amazes me how simple things like that can hit me like a ton of bricks and I think to myself "Obviously! That makes so much sense."

I also spent this evening learning how to make some excellent egg rolls and cashew chicken while spending time with some fantastic ladies from my ward. I do enjoy a good girls night out! I enjoy them even more when good food is involved. I enjoy most activities more when food is involved...

All in all, it's been a good day and I'm looking forward to more goodness tomorrow.

Smothicate!

I figured it was probably time to post about Diana and Casey's trip out to Fort Collins and Denver and the subsequent adventures.

Diana and Casey flew in on Tuesday night and Jacob and I drove to the airport to pick them up. I took the toll road for the first time and found it to be a much more efficient route, even with the slight, accidental detour... And it was a good time chatting it up with Jacob on the way down. Then it was a bit of an adventure actually finding Diana and Casey...and perhaps even more tricky relocating Jacob. But we all made it safely back to Fort Collins and even learned some new vocabulary. "Smothicate" is the word of the day and should be used as an expletive. Really comes in handy!



The next day was the day of the concert. Diana and Casey brought lunch to me and we enjoyed a Big City burrito. Well, some of us enjoyed a Big City burrito, others may have suffered through it. And I was lucky enough to have my two afternoon appointments cancel so I was able to do a little shopping in Old Towne with D and Casey and then we enjoyed some Walrus Ice Cream before heading to Denver for the concert. The concert was fantastic! And it got me thinking about all the concerts I've been to. So I'm going to take a little detour from this narrative and list all the bands I've seen live...at least all the ones I can remember!



Counting Crows (4 times now)
Sugar Ray
Wallflowers
Matchbox 20
Harry Connick Jr (3 times)
Maroon 5 (3 times)
Indigo Girls (2 times)
John Mayer
Beach Boys
Dave Matthews Band
Kenny Loggins
Augustana
Sawyer Brown
Nickel Creek (2 times)
Toby Keith
Simon and Garfunkel (2 times)
Martina McBride
Petula Clark
Mandy Moore
Tori Amos
Lonestar
Good Charlotte
Sum 41
Xavier Rudd
Alison Krauss (thanks for reminding me D, and I'm choosing not to include Fru Fru.)

Thanks for indulging me in that. I'm pretty sure I have forgotten a few but that's the best I can do for now. If any of you have been to concerts with me and can remember more, feel free to add to my list!


So the concert was good and the venue was nice. Diana had the unfortunate experience of sitting directly behind a giant but she was good about it. Augustana were really good and come highly recommended by me. Maroon 5 put on a fun show and were a good time to sing along with. I think my favorite part of their set was when they started singing Chris Isaac's "Wicked Games" as an intro to my new favorite song of theirs "I Won't Go Home Without You." I'm pretty sure many of the teeny boppers that were there didn't know what song that was and were probably wondering where that was on the Maroon 5 album. Counting Crows were decent. I'm pretty sure I've seen them enough times to say that they can either be really good or really not great. I've had two experiences of goodness (the best ever being the Big Freebie!) and two experiences of not greatness. This was a good one! I was pleased. I appreciate when musicians aren't so stoned you can't even recognize their music any more. All in all a good show and a very entertaining evening. Oh yeah! I was also pleased to see the same great beer salesman from the Rockies game I went to awhile back. He was less fun because he couldn't be yelling over the music. Too bad!




The next day we went to Denver again to visit the candy factory and down town. I had a good experience at Hammond's where I got 4 candy canes for the price of 2 because I kept breaking mine. Not to mention knocking over the baskets...it was a difficult moment for me. Good thing I can laugh at myself.


I am glad I don't have to drive to Denver again soon. Three days in a row was about all I can take! But I'm glad I got to spend time with these fun gals. Thanks for the visit Casey and D!