Nancy Pearl...I am a huge fan!

I was in a workshop with Nancy Pearl today!! I could not have been more excited. It was hard to really even concentrate...and I have to say that she is everything I hoped I could be in a librarian...on NPR, nationally known...teaches classes...ah! If only! I left inspired to try and become more like her...not totally...but maybe be a little more in the right place at the right time. Oh...and finally visited Colville...which is interesting...what a cute little town! I left wanting to give more book talks...do better at reader's advisory...and wanting to download a few more podcasts!! OH...and I got a book autographed...had I planned a little more I could have brought my action figure!

Returning Home...back to Spokane

Well, Mom and I got up...I finished packing...we stopped at R and M Bakery to get some of my favorite sugar cookies and then to the shop to say goodbye to my dad...and then we headed to Columbus to meet my friend Liz for breakfast at First Watch (a restaurant I miss from my Cincinnati days)...I got the usual...the Power Wrap...so good! And we sat and visited for awhile. Then we said our goodbyes and mom and I headed to Easton to go to Trader Joe's to get some snacks for my trip! There were so many good things...I settled on grapes, string cheese, banana and some dark chocolate covered pretzels...YUMMY! I also had some left over spaghetti from Olive Garden with me...and an apple. So I felt like I had enough food to avoid buying a lot at the airport. We stopped at the post office to ship my extra stuff...and then mom dropped me off at the airport! Ah...it was such a quick trip but I felt like I did so much! Of course my trip home wasn't so easy...I missed my connection in Detroit by minutes...and had to wait to leave for Minneapolis until 6:15pm...and then only had to go from there to Spokane rather than go to Seattle as well...but I got in about 11pm...tired and ready to sleep. Tim met me at the airport...and we went home and to bed! WHEW what a trip!

Returning to my Childhood Home...Day Two

So...my mom and I had stayed up talking until 1am...so we had a slow start today...we did make some food for a picnic...and then ran a couple errands. We packed up the food...and met my dad at Moundbuilders Park for a picnic....we sat in the shade of a tree and had chicken sandwiches with tomatoes and lettuce, pickles, potato salad, fruit salad, and carrots...it was all so yummy! Once we were done...we visited for awhile and then my mom and I proceeded to walk through the Moundbuilders Museum...checked out the Octagon Mound at the Moundbuilders Country Club, the Alligator Mound in Granville...and while in Granville we went to Whits (homemade frozen custard) and a cute little shop where my mom bought my birthday present...a beautiful ring. We drove through Dennison University...and then headed back to Newark. We went to OSU-N and walked around campus...then headed to my high school...walked on campus and looked at the buildings. As we walked around we ran into a teacher who had my sister for a class or two and he told us my high school was scheduled to be leveled starting in April of next year! I was shocked!! They are going to make a new, state of the art, handicap accessible building...ah, that is rough...I understand why...but it was soooo cool knowing that I graduated from a CAMPUS STYLE high school...one of only a few in the country! We walked around and took pictures...and then headed to Roosevelt...my junior high school...which has been empty for two years and has my ELEMENTARY SCHOOL going there this year while my elementary school is being updated. We walked through those halls and I looked for familiar rooms...it was bittersweet...once we were done...we headed back home and I changed...I met my friends at the Y for a Zumba Class...which was AWESOME!! What a great workout! Made me want to do that style of exercise again! We had a great workout then headed to Olive Garden for dinner...and talked and talked....it was great! Then I headed home to pack...I was going to be leaving the next day!

Returning to my Childhood Home...Day One

So...the whole reason I was even at home was to surprise my childhood friend at her bridal shower in Columbus...one of her friends contacted me a few months ago and asked what would be the possibility of me coming to her shower...I bought a ticket and the rest is history! So Sunday morning I got up and went to church with my parents...after church I left for Columbus...I wanted to stop at Hallmark and Barnes and Noble before the shower. I found the PERFECT card...having nothing to do with weddings or showers...and then bought the book by Lisa See called Snow Flower and the Secret Fan...because I want her to read it and it is about life long friends (Liza and I have been friends for 32 years). Once I got all of that...I was ready to surprise her! Her friend asked me to come right at 2pm so people could see the surprise...I walked into the Rusty Bucket at Polaris, and sure enough, she was surprised...she almost burst into tears...and she had NO IDEA I was coming...I was introduced to all of her friends (all of them seemed to already know me) and we sat down to eat. Rusty Bucket has the BEST deep fried dill pickle spears...and I learned one of the only places to get a cheeseburger with VELVEETA on it...so I was sooooo pleased. At the end...Liz's friend had got us all cupcakes from a local bakery...so cute, so many different flavors Ganache Dessert Kitchen...I think that is where they were purchased...even had red velvet!! After the shower, Liz and I headed downtown to check on a friend who runs a tattoo parlor...we visited him for awhile...and then drove through the OSU district...it has changed so much over the years...through Columbus downtown area...short north...and then we headed back to her place to visit...it was a great day, and a great opportunity to catch up with a GREAT friend!!

Returning to my Childhood Home....First Night

So, I flew home this weekend...and it was a great weekend. I left Saturday morning about 4:30am to go to the airport and arrived into Columbus, Ohio at 8:30pm flying through Seattle, Minneapolis, and Detroit...but uneventful and on time every leg of the way! So my mom met me at the curb...I was so proud of myself...I packed a backpack and a purse...no checked in luggage!! She and I drove back to Newark Ohio...my hometown of several years and discussed what we may have to eat once we were home. I told her I needed a Plaza Pizza. Once we were close to Newark I called in my order...13 inch Cheese Pizza...and was told I would wait 30 minutes and it would be ready to pick up! So...we got home, talked to dad a few minutes and then we headed out to get the pizza. It was tempting not to just start eating it once I was in the truck...but I managed to survive the 3 minutes home to get napkins and begin to eat. By the way, this pizza was $8.00. Mom and I sat and talked and ate...talked and ate. I smelled it...soooo good...almost a little bit of a cheesy saucy smell. I told mom as we ate that memories were flooding back to me...my first one, eating Plaza with my friend Holly, her mom would go and get us a pizza...we would open a couple of Pepsi BOTTLES...and drink that with the pizza while watching Friday Night Videos...my other memory would be of my friend Liz and I getting a half pepperoni pizza (for her) and half cheese (for me) along with a can of grape pop for her and can of cream soda or root beer for me....and eating it in a car...burning the roof of our mouths on the cheese. Ah...fond memories. I thought I would have difficulty eating an entire HALF of a pizza...turns out that within 5 to 10 minutes...the pizza was GONE...

Losing Weight and Eating Food

Well, I LOVE to eat...so one of the things I have sworn to do as I lose weight is eat well! I purchased two new cookbooks last week at WW...one is NOW AND LATER where you cook one meal and then on the opposite page is what you can do with the leftovers...different meal with similar ingredients. LOVED the first recipe we tried...BBQ Turkey (although no stores had turkey, so we used Chicken breast instead) and then the following night we had gumbo! It was great! The other cookbook is called HIT THE SPOT with pretty flavorful dishes...we made the Pork and Tomato Carnitas...SOOOOOOO yummy! I swear there are times that I can't believe that I am on WW. I will also plug the Weight Watchers cookbook Momentum...TONS of great recipes...even my husband likes them! There is nothing worse than thinking for the rest of your life you will be eating yogurt for breakfast, a salad for lunch and some sort of chicken breast and veggies for dinner. I am so happy that both my husband and I love to cook and love to try and make things that are both healthy AND nutritious! If you feel like you are in a rut with your diet...and really you need to look at it as a lifestyle change...get a new cookbook...ask a friend if they have a cookbook you can swap...and try something new for dinner!

Tea Time

On Sunday August 9th I hosted a tea at my apartment. I will say I have missed entertaining a group...and last Sunday I had 7 guests for tea. I decided to make chilled strawberry soup with whipped cream on top...I made two cold drinks, definitely not traditional for tea but it is summer...so I made a Peach/Mango/Orange Spice Iced Tea with mint and a Raspberry Fizz drink for kids who may not like tea...I had 2 kids and 2 teens attending. I also made Huckleberry Tea as the hot tea selection. I made sandwiches....salmon and cream cheese (doctored with dill and garlic), peanut butter and jelly, peanut butter and fluff, ham (two options, one with munster and mustard and one with my cream cheese ranch spread) and cucumber sandwiches. We also had huckleberry scones with honey or cherry jam...and then the dessert was a half a sponge cake with mandarin oranges and blueberries and whipped cream on top...everything seemed to be a hit...everyone dressed up and most wore hats! It was great fun! I host a second tea on Sept 13th and I am very much looking forward to it!

Birthday Fun July 2009

So, I turned 39 this year...and for the first time in TWO YEARS I got to spend my birthday with my husband (he was out of the country the last couple of years). It was so exciting. He asked me what I wanted to do...and I told him as long as I could spend the day with him, I would be fine! So...on my actual birthday I spent one of the few times I work on my birthday...working...it was a great day...nothing too incredible, one of my co-workers made me some YUMMY cupcakes (yellow with fudgy icing) and lots of regular fun. I got off at 4pm and joined my co-workers who SHARE my birthday...that is right, in a staff of 10 THREE of us were born on July 31st! We headed to Hay J's for a celebratory drink...and then one of them stayed with me and my husband for dinner. Tim and I headed home after work and got a blizzard from DQ and watched Valkyrie...Tim also surprised me with my birthday gift...a basket and bags for my bike so I can ride it to do errands and grocery shopping...well once it cools off...too hot!!

Saturday I worked....got off at 4pm and Tim greeted me at the door with a "pack some stuff in a bag..." and I did...we left soon after and headed downtown. It was HOT really rather HOT...we also had the dog...so I wasn't sure where we were headed. Turns out he got us a room at the Davenport Hotel. Not just a room, but a Penthouse King suite...ooh la la...and Elphaba got to stay with us! We immediately changed into swimsuits and headed to the pool...there was only one other couple in the pool...after a half hour we headed up to shower and get ready for dinner. We ate in the Peacock Room...I LOVE their French Onion Soup! I also tried the new Sweet Tea Vodka...YUMMY! We finished up and headed back to our room to watch an in room movie MY LIFE IN RUINS...and then ordered room service dessert...the signature sundae made with ice cream, fudge and the peanut bruttle they make...VERY yummy! We stayed up late...slept in and ordered breakfast room service which was YUMMY...we were headed home by 12noon!

I had a great birthday...once again reminded of how many people are out there that think of me...I got some great presents...although as I get older I find that spending time with people and a card makes me happiest! I got phone calls, cards and emails! I am definitely blessed and can't wait to continue this year experiencing all life has to offer! Hopefully in good health and in sound mind!

Stats Exam the Friday night Plan

So...this is what it has boiled down to...Friday night...taking a stats exam. I can't believe it. Usually by Friday I am spent...ready to chill...even though I work on Saturday, Friday night is a night I can come home, have something quick and easy to eat and then watch a DVD or something with my husband. Tonight will be different...I have an exam to take and I have decided it won't ruin the rest of my weekend...so I am going to take it tonight. The instructor says it takes 2 hours...but since I am special, it will take me AT LEAST 4 hours I am sure. And...I am scared of this test. Scared that this will be something I can't get or understand. But, on the other hand I feel like I am a pretty smart person...and that stats are interesting...but is that enough??? Anyway...wish me luck, I am going to need it!

Return to Washington

So...Tim and I get up REALLY early...about 5am (which would be 3am at home) and head for the airport...we get there in enough time to return the car and get to our gate without too much difficulty! I am REALLY tired...so once we are on the plane I get out my stats book and immediately fall asleep. We have about 2 hours in Denver...which we walk around some...but I am drowsy and all off kilter! We are on the plane to Spokane and I find myself snoozing again...and once we land I am REALLY tired! Of course we get home...Tim goes to get the dog and I shower and hope that I can wake up before class! I head to class about 4:30pm...and get gas on the way...class goes long, til nearly 10pm...when I get back I am DEAD!! But...by the next morning, even though the travel home was a long day...the vacation leaves us both rested and relaxed!

Trip to Iowa Day Six

Okay....people are starting to leave. Ted and Anne head back today...it is sad to see them go. Tim, Jake, Grandpa and Dad go fishing in the morning...and Lynn and I prepare a tea for Grandma and Mom out in the sun room...we have strawberry soup, pumpernickel and turkey and mustard sandwiches and cucumber sandwiches, and blueberry bread with a selection of teas and jams...it turns out really good. It is getting warmer for sure! Mom, Dad, Tim, Tom and I head to Walnut, IA to look at the antiques...there are always such interesting things to see there! Tom find some books...I find a couple salt cellars, and Mom and I get Grandma a scarf to use to decorate something in her house. It is pretty hot and humid out, so we only last about 2 hours before we are ready to return to the farm!

Lynn and Tyler take Jake to the airport...

Dinner ends up being a Cobb salad (chef salad) with ham, chicken, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers...with some of the leftovers in the fridge.

The men head back out with Lynn to go do some more fishing...and Mom, Grandma and I watch a movie DEFIANCE...and then I decide I should get us packed. Tim and I have to leave about 5:30am the next morning and I would rather be packed and ready to go the night before!

Trip to Iowa Day Five

Ah it is Sunday...we are pretty lazy today...and the sun has come out! We kind of piddle about in the morning then plan our Waffle Breakfast...this is tradition for us...we eat outside...there is lots of bacon...and we have waffles. Lori and Denny get to eat with us...and we start getting the food ready about noon...so when mom and dad get back from church, they can join in as well. Tim and I prepare the batter...two batches of regular and one gluten free mix. We get the bacon going...juice, all of the toppings, maple syrup, strawberry sauce, whipped cream and chocolate chips...all yummy stuff. We set up a long table outside and while Tim and I make food, everyone eats...it is great fun! The Gluten Free isn't bad at all!

Then we line up for a family portrait in the yard...set up a self timer and get a few great shots of the family!

The rest of the afternoon is just sitting around and visiting...watching a movie (NEW IN TOWN), and finally thinking about dinner...Tim and I head to Atlantic for some supplies...and we order pizza from Pizza Hut...by the time we return everyone has eaten...so we eat with Grandma and Mom and talk about the day and the vacation...

The Volleyball net gets set up in the front yard and while Grandma, Mom, Lynn and I sing and play, the game starts, the OTHERS (Anne, Tim, Jake) vs HAYS (Ted, Tom, Tyler). Grandpa acts as ref...and later Lynn and I jump in to play as well...it is great fun!

Trip to Iowa Day Four

Yep, today is the fourth of July...in Exira, IA that means the day starts with a shot at like 6am...and then the festivities downtown begin...as a child that meant getting up early and getting downtown to compete in the footraces in front of the school before the parade...as an adult it means getting up and making sure the food you should have ready for the potluck is made. So, I got up and made an AWESOME fruit salad for our meal later in the day...and kept eating bits of Grandma's yummy potato salad that she was finishing up. Eating a light breakfast and then walking across the field to the care center to watch the parade. This is the first year both sides of the family will be watching the parade from roughly the same place. For YEARS the Hays family watched it from near the school at the beginning of the parade...and the Littlefields watched it near the care center...more towards the end of the parade. Anyway, now that Grandma Hays is in the care center...we watched it there. Tim and I decide even though it is raining we will walk across the field...and it has been raining since yesterday...it is a light mist...but the ground is MUDDY...and we manage to get a thick clay like mud all over our shoes. Once we are in the grass we are able to get most of it off...but it is thick and takes a long time. Everyone who drives to the parade site actually arrives about the same time we arrive due to the traffic between here and there. We find our family sitting along one side of the parade route...we probably take up a half block! And...in spite of the rain, everyone is in good spirits. We meet some new editions to the family...John's wife and kids...and get to see our cousins from FL...Grandma Hays is sitting with the other folks from the care center in shelter from the rain and we swap out who can sit with her...we watch the kids dive for candy...and marvel at the fact that this is the only parade we know that hands out STEAK bits in a parade!

After the parade Tim and I walk back to get our fruit salad and then drive back to the care center to enjoy the meal with the Hays clan! We have a lot of the family in attendance...I think there are at least 29 of us...which is quite large. We eat...there is a great spread of food...fruits, veggies, desserts, salads (this year was the year of the grape/broccoli salad), seven layer dip, brisket, ribs, enchiladas....it was all really good. Then we take pictures...trying to line up as we once did...first by height, then by age...and then adding in the 2nd cousins...it is fun! Then we make the other adults do it too! Everyone is ready for a rest after that...and decide to meet up at the street fair later.

We head back to the Littlefields to play cards...multi person solitaire, watch TV and relax. A surprise arrives...Grandpa's Dodge Charger...pretty much refurbished to its former glory stops by...and we all admire it...it is looking incredible! I remember driving it when I was younger and it was lacking a floor...brakes were bad and it had many a trip through the corn field.

We head to the fair...it is still drizzling..but is better than the hot summer sun that normally beats down on us on the 4th. We meet up with our cousins and watch the kids ride rides...I am so sad...no Tilt-a-Whirl this year...but last time I rode rides I got sick...I had never gotten sick on rides before...this year I decide I am not going to risk it. So I just watch. Lynn rides...and everyone tried to get Zachary (Troy's boy) to ride some of the more scary rides! I discuss acquiring a Tilt-A-Whirl with my cousins Jason and Eric...we decide it would be a great investment...where to put it and how to get one are top on our minds.

We leave the fair to get back to the farm and get ready for fireworks...the temperature is dropping. In preparation for the heat I really haven't packed for cooler temperatures....so I borrow a pair of Grandpa's jeans to wear...and then our cousins start to arrive to to sparklers and prepare to watch the fireworks. It is so fun....we sit in a slightly different place because of the rain and mud...and the fireworks prove to be just as awesome as ever!

Everyone leaves...and we build a fire and sit outside under the stars...the rain has stopped and the moon is out in full...it is gorgeous. We sing and talk about the past...it is a great evening. Another memorable July 4th!

7th Wedding Anniversary

I am going to deviate from Iowa for just a minute to mention that yesterday was my husband and I's 7th wedding anniversary...it has been 7 years...sometimes that is hard for me to believe...and other time I do believe it. Yesterday we spent the day together...Tim booked a breakfast brunch on the Post Falls Brunch Cruise...we left from the Red Lion Inn in Post Falls and went down the Spokane River/Coeur D'Alene Lake for a two hour leisure cruise. The food spread was yummy...salad, ranch dressing (something was different about it and really really good), fruit which included honeydew, muskmelon, watermelon, pineapple, strawberries, red raspberries, blueberries, some pastries, I only tried the petite fours and a small lemon square, coffee, tea, smoked salmon, crab, shrimp, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes...it was all really good. We split an orange juice and small bottle of champagne and then drank a lot of water...it was a pretty warm day! The houses along the ride were amazing...HUGE, and some were smaller...we ate below and then came up to the top deck and sat in the shade watching the activity on the water. Our captain pointed out some places of interest along the way including the houses Pierce Brosnan stayed in while filming Dante's Peak...

Once off the boat we got some ice cream and sat by the marina for a little while then headed home...we cooled off...it was pretty warm and a little muggy....well pretty muggy by WA standards...by OH standards it felt great! Anyway, we decided to pack a picnic lunch and head out a little early for the second half of our day (Tim planned the whole day by the way, he is such an awesome husband)...we packed crackers, cheese (aged Gouda and garlic jack) a cheese dip I made, carrots, grapes, cherries, salmon and cream cheese...water...headed to Barnes and Noble to get a couple books then headed to Arbor Crest Winery for a picnic and concert...for more info check out their website at http://www.arborcrest.com/ they have evening concerts on the weekends...it costs $5 at the door and you can bring picnic lunches, etc...there is also catering available there and they ask that if you want wine to purchase it there...Tim and I got a bottle of Riesling and set up....it was so nice...the sun disappeared for awhile...then came back out, we were in the shade...then a cool breeze kicked up and it was so nice...tons of people...great swing music....very romantic!

Happy Anniversary my sweet...here's to another 7 years (at least)!

Trip to Iowa Day Three

Now that it has been SEVERAL days since this has happened...I can't remember everything. But, I do know that my sister and I woke up and thought we would call our mom and see where they were...we called...my mom sounded groggy and sleepy, my sister asked why they weren't on the road yet...my mom said where are you? My sister replied in the kitchen at Grandma's, and then asked where are you? My mom said in Exira, in Grandma's House, in the Blue room...we laughed hysterically. Turns out with three drivers, Mom, Dad and Tom drove all night and got in really early that morning. We went through the usual morning ritual...breakfast, sitting around the kitchen table...and then got ready for the day. I sat with Grandma and rested after lunch and then did some laundry and some other odds and ends to get ready for the big family dinner that night. It started to rain right about the time we headed to the Nursing Home to visit Grandma Hays for coffee time at 3pm...then we returned to head to Audubon to get the ice cream cake and stuff for the 4th of July (I was going to make a fruit salad). Lynn, Jake and I went to Audubon and showed Jake Albert the Bull...when we pulled into the park, Jake was a little disappointed that Albert was a huge fiberglass structure...not an actual bull. Dinner prep continued when we returned. Tim had seen a guy grill a prime rib on PBS using cheese, rosemary and garlic...and wanted to reproduce this. So, he cooked the prime rib while Lynn and I did the salad, rosemary roast potatoes and the rest of the food. It turned out sooooo good! Everyone loved it! It was done rare...to our liking...and we finished off the meal with a DQ ice cream blizzard cake, half turtle blizzard and half vanilla with pink icing. We sang to mom and grandma...and they blew out their candles! It was great! Grandpa went out after dinner and started a fire in the rain...so a bunch of people went out to enjoy it...I went to bed with Tim...after all the 4th was the next day and it is usually quite the long and exciting day!

Trip to Iowa Day Two

So...we rise early...of course...it is really hard to sleep when you are in Iowa and there is TONS to do...hee hee...well there really isn't much to do. We decide to just hang out in the kitchen around the table and look at pictures and talk to Grandma and Grandpa. Lynn will be arriving later in the day...we have decided to go and get her (Tyler and I) so we wait to see when we can leave. Their flight is delayed a little in Denver...so we want to wait until they are actually in the air. Before we head to the airport my Grandma and I head to Audubon to get some groceries for the day, maybe some for tomorrow...and to order a Dairy Queen cake. Turns out Mom turned 60 this year, and Grandma turns 80 this year in November. We are going to have a huge family dinner tomorrow night and would like to celebrate both birthdays. Grandma wanted to know what kind of cake to have...I asked her what she wanted...she asked me what Mom would want. I suggest Emma's White Cake...or Red Velvet...but then Grandma says she has always wanted a Ice Cream Cake...so we decide to call Dairy Queen and order one...the number for the DQ in Audubon is unlisted...so we have to drop in anyway. We head off...stop at DQ and order the cake, which was interesting...no one seemed to know what I was asking at first...but finally we get the cake ordered and head to the grocery. On our way back into Exira we stop to get milk at the local market which has just reopened. I decide to make something in the crock pot for dinner so we won't have to worry about fixing much...so I get that started and then we make sandwiches for lunch. And then we wait for Lynn to give us the call to come to Des Moines to get her...

Tyler and I leave about 3pm to get Lynn...we figure if we time it right we will pull up just as they are on the curb to avoid parking and so forth. It has been a REALLY long time since I have been to the Des Moines airport...so when I see it, I had forgotten how incredibly TINY it was! Anyway, it was perfect timing, we get Lynn and Jake and head back to Exira. I take the scenic route near Littlefield Park and we see the buffalo...

After dinner we all head out to walk around the farm and walk out to what Grandpa is calling the A-hole...named after the type A John Deere that has been dumped into it, among all other things, he assures us this is legal, my sister and I are horrified of course. But the sun is coming down...we are walking through the oats and corn...it is rather pretty. We also stop by his other hole with a little water in it and TONS of frogs and toads which are immediately silent when we walk up. Grandpa mentions some coyotes out there as well and as we walk around the holes in the ground where they live I startle a fawn...and I scream thinking I may have startled a coyote. Anyway, no one got a picture it happened so fast! Tim and I also walk by the old site of where Mom grew up. They have finally knocked it down and hauled it out. It had so much damage from a fire so long ago...they have finally cleared it out. It is a large hole in the ground now...Tim says it looks great for a pool.

And..it seems like a good night for a fire. Grandpa says it will be raining soon...so this may be the perfect night for it. So...we build a fire. Well, Lynn does...and after a few false starts a blaze is going and we make s'mores and sing and stare at the stars. It is a great day!

Trip to Iowa Day One

So...my husband and I attempt to sleep the night before we leave...in the morning we get up WAY earlier than necessary, doing all of the things we do to get ready for a trip. I am usually trying to get the apartment picked up (nothing worse than getting home from a vacation and having to CLEAN), dishes done, recycling out, pets taken care of, garbage out. Double checking that everything is packed. We managed to pack ONE SUITCASE for the both of us...after all the airlines are charging $15 per bag now...and then we each had a carry on...pretty good considering we would be gone for a whole week.

We arrived at the Spokane Airport about an hour and a half before the plane was scheduled to leave...gave us time to park in the North Lot and get to our gate...get water in our bottles and be ready to fly out at 11:24am. I was soooo excited. When I go to Iowa I feel like a kid again...lots of fond memories and the excitement of seeing family...it makes me feel so giddy! Tim just rolls his eyes at me.

We fly to Denver...then on to Omaha, NE...Tim and I are ready to eat dinner when we land. We get our rental car and head to Old Towne Omaha...my favorite place to eat and shop in Omaha. There is a restaurant there called M's Pub that has the best Lamb Burger I have ever had...and a great selection of wine! We make it a point of eating there anytime we get the chance. The sad thing is there are TONS of things on the menu, and plenty of other restaurants in Old Towne...but we find ourselves going back here time and time again! So...we order our burgers and wine...sit back and enjoy eavesdropping on three slightly intoxicated women at the bar, one who looks TOO old to be doing that...and then I wonder if this is what I look like when I am out with my sister (much younger than I). Anyway...we eat...it is just as good as we remember it. We also order one for my brother Tyler. We will be headed back to the airport to get him before we head to Exira! He has never had a lamb burger...and I feel he definitely needs one!

We pick up Tyler...head out of Omaha with a quick stop at the HiVee in Council Bluffs to get Tim some gluten free mix for our Waffle breakfast...and then on to Exira. We arrive a little after 10pm and it is great to see Grandma and Grandpa! They are happy to see us and we visit awhile before heading to bed!

Back and Relaxed...

So my husband and I left July 1st for Iowa...our yearly trek to Exira, Ia to visit my family. We are amazed that this is the one vacation that when we return, we feel rested and ready to get back into our lives. Yesterday wasn't as relaxing...we woke up at 5am (3am PST) and went to the airport...flew home...with a 3 hour lay over in Denver...looking at the mountains made me want to stay...and then home at 3pm PST...showered and then off to class...home by 10pm and in bed immediately. Today was just getting up to go to Physical Therapy then counting the minutes until work at 3pm. So, I was pretty relaxed. I will account our trip as soon as I get my pictures. I tried to look at them today...seems my brother decided he wanted them and took them off my camera...and didn't tell me. Naturally I was hysterical during the time I didn't know what happened to HUNDREDS of pictures. But...all is well, I know I will get them sooner or later!

TWILIGHT TRIP day five...

So...we got up and packed up...not entirely ready to return to the normal day to day...I wanted to stop at the Forks welcome sign one last time for a picture for work. We packed up and walked to our host's house to pay up and get ready to leave. He was so friendly, he and his wife...and it sounded like they were getting a second cabin on the property soon. His dogs were friendly and Red the cat wanted into the huge black caddy since it was raining. We left there, headed to Forks, WA for one last picture...once that was done we were off to eat at this burger joint we were dying to try...Liz had heard about it. Fat Smitty's...we were thinking about those burgers all day...we stopped to get Elk Jerky (for me, and for Tim) and then pulled up to a full lot at Fat Smitty's. It was CLOSED...we were HORRIFIED!! So...we continued on. Missing our turn off to get to Bainbridge...once we got turned back around...we were traveling along the water...and 4 or 5 HUGE eagles swooped in and started flying in front of us in formation on the road...if traffic had come from the other way they would have freaked out...they were low. Of course we had 3 cameras in the car and NO ONE could get it out fast enough to get a good shot...but it was incredible.

Once back on track, we headed to Bainbridge to take Liz to Bath Junkie http://www.bathjunkie.com/ where we created our own scents and got some bath and body supplies...it was soooo cool. Lynn and I had dropped in there quickly one time and wanted to come back. I created a lilac scent that I am in love with...also got a sample of Herb Garden which had the smell of dirt, basil and sage...I love it! I can't wait to go back. Then we headed to eat at the Harbour Pub House also in Bainbridge http://www.harbourpub.com/ Liz and Lynn were craving both burgers and fish and chips...I went straight for the burger...it was all sooooo yummy! We left there to walk around the marina a little then head to the ferry to get back to Seattle! What an awesome trip!! It was so amazing. I am blessed to have such great friends and sisters! When can we plan the next trip?

Twilight Trip Day Four...

So...we decided to have a slow start, so we ate breakfast, watched BREAKFAST CLUB and leisurely got ready to go. Our destination was Hoh Rain Forest. http://www.hohrainforest.com/ or you can check out the National Park Service website http://www.nps.gov/ and search for Hoh Rain forest. All the research I had done about this part of the park said it rains a lot...so be prepared. My first visit there was no rain...and it looked like this visit would be the same. Apparently June and September things aren't as rainy. So, we headed to Hoh...decided to do the short hike through the Hall of Mosses and then do the hike that takes you by the river bed...in hopes of seeing some elk. We had a great hike...took tons of pictures...did get to see elk! I was happy I brought my binoculars. There were also warnings about elk and we should stay away...they had been coming closer to the visitor's center. As we were coming back from our hike, Liz kept saying she heard something...Lynn and I scoffed...as we had spent the whole trip talking about bears, moose, and Bigfoot...so we just laughed at her. Finally we heard some hoof beats...there was a horse trail nearby...as we came around the curve to the visitor's center a ranger asked us if we had seen elk..we told him by the river. He said he meant right around there...Liz looked at us and told him she had heard something back a little ways and he said that an elk had been sighted just minutes ago...OOOOHH!!!

We left the Hoh Rain forest and it began to rain...nothing too hard. We stopped at the Hard Rain Cafe and at a picnic lunch on one of the picnic tables. We also hit the outdoor store that had a lot of Columbia stuff on sale!

Next stop was RUBY BEACH and by this time it was raining pretty good...not a downpour..so we got out and hiked around...it was lovely! Mist rolling in...people were still walking around, not as many though!

We got back to Forks and it was raining...we weren't that hungry but we wanted to get something like ice cream...we stopped at Pacific Pizza for a sundae and some bread sticks. We still had our hearts set on a beach fire and making hot dogs...we decided we would see what it was like and if it was pouring we would head back to Forks for pizza or something. Well, the weather gods were with us...and we were able to build a fire on the beach and roast hot dogs and marshmallows. It was soooo fun!! We had to keep things dry...but it just sprinkled here and there. The ocean was strong so the surf sounded incredible! We left WAY past dark...so as we returned things to the car and got our water to put out the fire, Lynn and I sang LOUDLY...Liz asked what we were doing...we said this was to keep the creatures at bay...if you walk silently you could surprise something...it was fun!

TWILIGHT TRIP DAY THREE...

So, up and ready to go...with a beautiful view of Crescent Lake. We decided to walk around the grounds a little bit. This family of ducks followed me around. The lady at the check in office said that they come up to people to be fed and teach their young ones to do the same. The baby ducks sometimes get eaten by eagles...so sad...but they were adorable! Saw other birds as well. I could have stood there all day...but we had to get to Forks...so we left. Stopped at a couple places along the way to take pictures...once we got closer to Forks, the sky got overcast again (perfect for vampires). We stopped at this little place for breakfast and had the BEST breakfast sandwiches EVER! Basically it was an egg mcmuffin only BETTER! And a cinnamon roll...the place even served TWILIGHT drinks!

We stopped at the WELCOME TO FORKS sign and we pulled in just as a bus load of teen girls pulled up as well as a van of teens...all to do the Twilight thing! It was fun! Liz talked to a mother that was just as excited as the teens! We headed to our cabin, Olson's Cabin to get checked in and drop off our stuff. http://www.olsonscabin.com/ If you are in the area this cabin sleeps 5 comfortably and it has kitchen, grill outside...it is soooo cute and perfect! We checked out Rialto Beach as well...it was beautiful. Our plan was to return and cook dinner on the beach, or at one of the picnic areas. We headed to Forks to tool around...we stopped at Dazzled by Twilight to shop...went across the street to the Sweet shop for some jelly bellies...and then headed through the town looking at sights. We ended up at the Chamber of Commerce for Forks...they had a whole Twilight set up and it was so cool. http://www.forkswa.com/ There was a man who gave us a self guided tour of the town with all of the sights...and a trivia quiz and some other stuff. There were gifts for Twilight Fans and the Bella truck was out front. We decided to do the driving tour...starting with Bella's house...then the hospital with Dr Cullen's parking spot, to the high school and to the police station and finally the Cullen's house (which is a bed and breakfast called Miller Tree Inn http://www.millertreeinn.com/ ) It had a message board from Esme for all of the Twilight Fans and the message changes every day. We headed to the local Thriftway to get food for dinner...Lynn said they didn't have any fresh seafood but was told to go to La Push, to the marina to see what they had. So..after getting some corn on the cob from another local market we headed out to La Push. Liz went off to take pics and Lynn and I went on the hunt for fish. We were told to go to the marina...as we walked up there were doors and a sign that said no entry. I decided to duck in...so I met with some men and asked about fish...they told me they had some rock fish...I asked how much...they said $1 per pound..I helped pick a couple out...and then Lynn asked how we would fillet them...I asked the guy if he would do it for us. He said he couldn't do restaurant quality...I told him I didn't care...just needed to be able to cook it on the fire. So...we watched him fillet. It was fun! We got back to the cabin and got dinner ready. We wrapped asparagus in prosciutto, corn on the cob would just go on the fire. Liz put fish in two foil containers...one with a rub and one with lemon, butter and seasoning...and we headed back to Rialto Beach.

Lynn and I started the fire while Liz went out to the beach...the food turned out GREAT!! As we were packing up our food in the car, I was approached by a guy frantically looking for a cell phone (there is no cell phone reception at the beach). I asked why, he said that a guy had fell off a cliff...I wasn't sure if I believed him, but he seemed bothered. There was a guy and his girlfriend who drove up and said their cell phone worked back at camp...so the guy went back to call. I had seen a ranger car in the lot...but not the ranger. So, when I got back to Lynn and the fire, the ranger walked up. I told him what happened and that I had no idea where, or even if it was true...but I wanted to let him know. He thanked me and took my info...and said he would look into it. The sky was overcast...but the sunset was pretty...the fire was great and of course there was a lot of giggling and marshmallow roasting! The ranger came back and told us that a guy did fall down the cliffs...slow fall, so not too serious...but they had a hard time finding him because the guy asking for help was not staying put! So that was exciting! We stayed until it got pretty dark...and then headed back to the cabin!

Taste of Washington...

So this weekend was all about trying to recoop from being gone...and getting laundry done. Tim and I went out Saturday night and watched THE PROPOSAL (what a cute movie) and out to eat RED ROBIN (yummy as always esp the new watermelon margaritas)...Sunday we volunteered at the Taste of Washington event at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane. For those of you unfamiliar...it is a pretty good sized gathering of wineries and restaurants...tasting and sampling encouraged. Tickets this year were $85 and Tim and I got to do it for FREE..well we volunteered, we definitely worked for our time...we were there from 4 to 6:30pm working the event...and left about 7pm after tasting and sampling...YUMMY! Anyway, I recommend going if you get the chance...check out the website at www.tastewashington.org

Twilight Trip Day Two...

So, Liz and I were up at like 6:30am giggling like idiots...Lynn came in to give us a warning look...it made it worse! We finally got up about 8am and got ready...packed the car and headed to Varsity Inn for breakfast. We ate here before when I came out for my birthday last year. It is a very yummy breakfast destination if you are ever in Seattle. I opted for two slices of french toast (since they had brown sugar), one egg, two sausages, and a little bit of Liz's hash browns with hot chocolate. It was VERY good. Once we left there we headed to the Bead store which I believe was Fusion Beads http://www.fusionbeads.com/ This is where Liz gets her beads online, she was excited to go and see the store. I think we spent an hour in there...Liz could have been there all day, and Lynn found something and made it in the store. I told Lynn, next visit, let's do a class or something there. Everyone was so friendly! After we left there, we headed to the Sunday Fremont Market. Of course there was TONS to see, food, etc. Good thing we had eaten breakfast! We all ended up buying something! It was fun....we could have been there all day but we really needed to get to the peninsula...so we left the market a little before 1pm. After a couple of errands we got to the Bainbridge Ferry in time for Liz and Lynn to get the fresh donuts on the pier and then we were off!!

Once in Bainbridge we followed the roads to get us out and on our way...it was an overcast day...perfect for vampire sightings! We stopped at this cute little train ice cream depot to get coffee...while Liz was waiting for Lynn and I, she decided it was time to take out her Edward and Bella dolls to take pictures. We also stopped at one of the many lavender farms to see the plants and take pictures... Sunshine Lavender and Herb Farms check it out at http://www.lavenderfarmstore.com/ We also stopped near one of the Native American Casinos...there was a welcome center that we walked around and took pictures of the beautiful scenery. We still had overcast skies...no rain. As we approached Port Angeles, the sun came out and we had spectacular views of the mountains and we walked around by the marina for a little while before dinner (we had dinner reservations at 6pm at Bella Italia). The sun was GORGEOUS and warm...but the breeze was cool! We headed to the restaurant a little before 6pm excited about eating at the restaurant where Bella and Edward had their first date! http://www.bellaitaliapa.com/ There were parents with teens coming in and out of the restaurant and of course we caused a scene taking a picture of Edward and Liz at the front of the restaurant. Liz ordered a margherita pizza, Lynn the mannicoti, and I the smoked salmon ravioli with dill cream sauce and sun dried tomatoes...it was all REALLY good! Everything looked great and the atmosphere was perfect!

Liz and I walked towards the Port Book and News http://www.portbookandnews.com/ to see the Twilight stuff, and we saw our first store Dazzled by Twilight...and made a note to come back when it was open! We left Port Angeles to find our cabin for the night. It was still sunny and nice, we pulled over to take pictures of the lake. We were staying at the Log Cabin Resort along Crescent Lake. It was ADORABLE! I was afraid it was so rustic we would need our own sheets but it was perfect. They left our key out for us to take checking in late...the lady I talked to a couple times on the phone was soooo nice and informative. Check out Log Cabin Resorts on the web http://www.logcabinresort.net/ There are RV and Campsites as well as cabins of various kinds. It was all so cute! Reminded me of the cabins Tim and I stayed in while we were in Wisconsin! We unloaded the car, Liz went to explore and Lynn and I built a fire in our fire pit. It was great! We drank wine, giggled, took pictures and roasted marshmallows...so much fun!!

Twilight Trip Day One

So, I could barely contain myself...I had to work Saturday June 13th until 2pm...it was hard, but the day went by pretty quickly. I had also woke up with a sore throat....UGH...I kept telling myself it would go away...but I drank things, I sucked on lifesavers...nothing, still the dull ache. I told myself I wasn't getting sick!! I hurried home and finished up any last minute packing...pretty soon I was pacing the floor, Tim finally said, "just go." So I left for the airport. When I arrived I decided to park in the North Lot as I always do...the tram was there but no driver was present. So I got out of the truck, went to the stop and waited. The tram ended up leaving the lot after the driver got back in...I figured he would turn around and come back in...after all it had been a good 5 minutes. Well, I would be mistaken...he just kept driving. I decided to walk to the other stop and wait there. A family headed to Alaska was there...lots of stuff, two kids. We waited more, well now it has been 15 minutes....I was feeling impatient. The tram finally appeared and as people got off I stood to the side to let them off, once they were done I started to get into the tram and the DOORS CLOSED?!?!?!?! The driver drove away. One of the guys that had just got off said good luck with that driver... GREAT, just what I need! He did come back...and asked if we had been standing there. Well, we told him we had. He made no move to help load bags. He asked which airlines we were flying...Alaska for the family and Southwest for me...and then proceeded to drive past the Alaska Airlines hub...we shouted at him to stop and he just said he had a pickup. We demanded he let us all out...I didn't have time to ride all over the airport again and it seemed that he wasn't all with it. I felt bad for the family, they had a lot of stuff and had to walk pretty far back to get to the Alaska Airlines terminal. Anyway, once that was done I headed off to get my bag checked and off to my gate. Turns out it was perfect timing...I didn't have to wait long at all! Once in the air I was excited to be on my way!

Landed a little before 6pm...Lynn and Liz met me at baggage claim...with honey sticks from Pike Market, I had requested some to have for my throat. Sounded like they had a great day! We headed to a sushi restaurant Musashi's in Wallingford...a short wait later we had ordered edemame, and sushi...I opted for a half California roll and of course unagi, and tried albacore (YUM) Liz tried some...I was sooo proud of her, and we sat at the bar so we could watch it being made...it was fun!

Afterwards we headed to Molly Moon Ice Cream http://www.mollymoonicecream.com/ for some YUMMY ice cream...the line was long as always, but it is sooooo worth the wait! As we stood in line we observed that a lady in line behind us had brought her guitar and periodically she and her friends would break into song...so I thought maybe this was something we forgot...when I told this to Lynn and Liz we immediately began to giggle...I know that it doesn't seem funny now...but this would be something we would laugh about the WHOLE trip!

We left after our wait for ice cream to get some food in the QFC and Marketplace...then headed back to Lynn's to pack and get ready for our departure the next morning...not too early, but early enough to get the day going!

Getaway...

So, school is officially out for a week...so I am off to Seattle to spend some time with Lynn (my sister) and Liz (my best friend/sister). I am soooooo excited. We are off to the peninsula to see if we can find Bigfoot...well really vampires. My friend from Ohio wants to see Forks, WA. I think people from Forks would get a kick out of that...but honestly the peninsula has some incredible views, hiking areas, and just beautiful places to take in nature...who knows what we may find! Plus I am sure there will be silliness and fun at the same time. I am really looking forward to it. Also, I plan to post some pics and updates when I return. I can't find out my grades yet...I know in Marketing I got a 3.9 but there isn't a final grade for Econ yet...

My husband gets the apartment to himself for nearly a week...I told him it needs to look like what it looks like today when I return! I am sure it will turn into a bachelor pad while I am away...and he has all kinds of gaming systems to keep him busy!

School starts again June 22nd...so I hope to enjoy this time away...and get geared up for STATS!!

My first visit to Manito in 2009

So...not living on the South Hill means that I don't make it to Manito Park as often. I am ashamed to say that it is June 7th and I FINALLY made it to the park. I was anxious to see the lilacs...and the turtles...and anything else I may find interesting. This morning I got up and made breakfast...studied awhile then headed to Spokane to meet some classmates to finish our FINAL econ exam! We ordered pizza...it was YUM! I ate too much (of course) and after finishing I drove home to collect the dog and my husband and head to Manito. It could not have been a more perfect day...the sun was shining...it was cool, so a nice day to walk around! We were immediately blessed to see a Heron! Rather large and definitely beautiful to look at! It managed to catch a fish...I missed it with the camera...but an hour later I manage to catch it with the camera...I guess he needed a second snack...but then I missed him in flight, ah! I was after the insects today...I got some great bee and one incredible butterfly shot! Thanks to Tim, he saw it while we wandered through the lilacs! No turtles this visit...well I saw one get pulled from the pond by a net and it went right back in...but no one would pose for me! The flowers were between gigs...the spring ones on their way out and the summer ones not quite ready to bloom. I did get a few good shots though! And it was a nice relaxing walk with the dog and my husband. Come to find out it wasn't so relaxing for him...there were some idiots in the park. But only one got to me...a boy in the Japanese Gardens who was doing everything he shouldn't...I was tempted to yell at him, but took a pass. Anyway...home after the walk, I planted some basil my husband picked up at the local farmer's market and a rosemary plant...got the other pots ready for some planting...I will get the rest of what I want to plant tomorrow and get it in! I am thinking cherry tomatoes and some flowers! Tim prepared dinner...he made the most incredible salmon...on the cedar plank on the grill with a sauce he prepared with soy sauce, honey and ginger...he made carrots with ginger and brown sugar...and some rice...it was YUMMY and turned out so well! I paired it with a rose' Maybe not the best pairing...but it was good none the less. After an episode of X-Files...we had a dish of our watermelon sorbet....I LOVE THE ICE CREAM MAKER!! Now, I am watching the TONY's, and thinking of bed. My dog is dreaming about something interesting because she is growling and whimpering...it is too cute!

Saturdays...what do I do?

So, on a typical Saturday...I get up about 7am (UGH) because I am headed to a WW meeting at 7:30am...if I am really lucky I am up by 6:45am...but today I drug myself out of bed...although by the light streaming into my bedroom you would have thought it was NOON! I really forget about being so close to the time zone change...sun is up REALLY REALLY early! Anyway I wash my face, brush my teeth and try to get my hair to sort of look halfway decent...it is usually sticking up ALL over the place. Then...it is grab some water and a snack to eat as soon as I weigh in and I am OUT the door. Turns out I am looking forward to the drive, I am on the LAST CD of the book I am listening to...and I can't wait to see how it turns out. I arrive...and get in line. I am still sleeping really...as I weigh in I start to think about all of the things I have eaten over the week that I probably shouldn't have...although now it is really too late! Weigh in can go one of three ways...stay the same (WHEW), lose a little (YEAH) or gain (UGH)...this Saturday it is lost .8 (a little under a pound). Then I take my seat and listen to what is going on around me. I have been coming to this meeting about 6 months now...I really don't know anyone, but the faces are familiar. The meeting is good...I always need it, last week it was about motivation, this week it is about cutting costs...so all good info. Now I drive back home...and wonder what Tim and the dog are up to...sometimes when I leave they are in bed...other times they are up and doing things. This morning Tim was definitely up for the day. I get home and Tim is watching TV...there is nothing on Saturday AM...NOTHING...so I ask him what he is watching...he says he is just flipping channels (all 10 of them) while eating breakfast. Hmmmm, I start to think about what I will have for breakfast, and what will I wear to work, and what time shall I get to work? This is my first day my hours are extended...so I work 10-4 instead of 10-2...I really don't mind it, but I will wonder how the extra two hours will pass. The thought crosses my mind to go to the Farmer's market before work...but I am sure I will find something YUMMY to eat there that I shouldn't have...so I pass...make eggs with cheese and pizza sauce...one egg, two egg whites...1/8 cup reduced cheese and sprinkle the sauce over it when it is done...not bad...then it is shower and I am ready to go. I am out the door by 9:20am...I will arrive about 9:30am or so...which will leave me time to do what I want before we open and not feel too rushed. Summer Reading is just around the corner and I want to get fliers printed and logs printed. I am able to get most of my printing done before one of my co-workers makes it in early...thinking the same thing...Summer Reading prep! She is also headed to Farmer's Market to do story time...I think about asking her for a goodie...but pass...I really shouldn't get anything. Besides...I am not hungry!

We open at 10am...and honestly every Saturday is the same...the hours seem to speed by...or drag by, and then before you know it it is time to close...this Saturday wasn't any different...I was busy for awhile...then it seemed to drag and just as I got my groove going...it was 10 til 4 and time to close.

Home again...before I got home I deposit a check I have been meaning to cash for a week...and then I return a DVD at Blockbuster that was in our book drop by mistake...to be nice. And then I head home. Once in the door I am thinking about what to do next. A bike ride is out...my husband rode home from work yesterday (33 miles) and he is sore. Grocery is usually the next task...plan meals, plan snacks, so hopefully it is easier to stay on track. We sit down and discuss what we want to have this week...and then we head to the grocery. We always spend a little more than we anticipate...usually it is something we have both seen that looks YUMMY! In this case...who knows. We are home and unpacking then we start dinner...Thai Shrimp Salad...a WW recipe that we will tweak to our own taste...it turns out MARVELOUS!

Now...it is nearly 8pm...I am thinking either a movie or X-Files...and then to bed. Another Saturday has passed.

Weighing In...

So, Saturday I weighed in after being away for two weeks.....I managed to maintain my weight. I know I have 10 pounds to go...I can't seem to stop eating. It isn't that I am hungry all of the time, but Food TASTES good. I think about things like, Dairy Queen...after all it is warm out, I want ice cream. I hear a presentation about pizza and I want a pizza. I LOVE pizza...it is something I don't get to have often...and when it is presented to me, I want it. I keep asking myself, is it about real hunger? Am I bored? Do I just want to eat to make myself feel better? I can't tell WHY...I just know when I want something I want it. So, I started this week planning meals...good intentions. But...as the week has progressed I have eaten WAY more than my points. Have I gone to bed STUFFED or uncomfortable? No...which is awful! When I was losing weight before I would overeat...and I felt AWFUL...and then I didn't want to repeat that feeling anymore so it acted as a deterrent...now I just can't seem to control it. I don't feel yucky...so I still want to eat! Anyway...still hoping that I can get it under control and lose this weight. UGH...why does it seem like I am the only one who struggles like this...it is almost a DAILY...minute by minute conversation with myself...what sounds good, what am I going to eat next? UGH!!

Discovery Park - Seattle

So...Memorial Day, we found ourselves returning to Seattle for a shower and then as if we hadn't had enough hiking...we got ready and hiked some more. This time it was some new scenery. We headed to Discovery Park. We were headed to the beach...hopefully it would be low tide and we could show my husband some sea life! We headed out down the trail. The weather was gorgeous, warm with a cool breeze, TONS of people and dogs. I started snapping pictures right away! We headed down to the beach and as we headed down I overheard a lady say that this was the lowest tide of the year...and sure enough...there was a lot of exposed sand. We saw all manner of sea life...sea cucumbers, starfish, water fowl, sea slugs, sea anemones, hermit crabs, crabs, and some little fish. It was so beautiful and colorful! The other thing I noticed was that families used the drift wood to make lean tos...to shade from the sun, eat under or kids used to make forts!

RV and Tent Camping...

So...we convinced Tim to let us camp at the RV and Tent campground...he was HORRIFIED. My sister and I set up camp and began to build the fire. We were trying to use what we had brought when our neighbor came over and asked us if we wanted a plank from his fire to get ours started....we both baulked...and he asked us if we were too proud to accept help. We said we were but we would take it...after awhile Lynn got the fire started and I started on dinner. I had planned to make a Chicken Tortilla soup...it proved to be YUMMY with a blend of spices, chicken bouillon, water, rice, salsa, corn, black beans, and some cheese to top it. We used tortillas to dunk in the soup. It was incredible especially after the hike we had completed that day. We also planned to roast some hot dogs in celebration of Memorial Day...turkey dogs...for me, I was given a lot of grief for that! Anyway, we sat by the fire, we roasted marshmallows and hot dogs...wrapped the hot dogs in tortillas and ate them...so yummy!

The neighbors at the campsite made our stay interesting....the people on either side of us were pretty descent...but there was a group a couple sites down that would prove to be LOUD for most of the night. As we prepared for bed...the couple next to us was still drinking and partying...but soon they turned in. The time got past 10pm (quiet hour) and the loud group still partied on. The man in the next tent finally started cursing and I could sense his wife or girlfriend was trying to calm him down...he got out of the tent and called management. Not long after he got back into his tent...a woman showed up and started yelling at the group...our neighbor yelled out that if she needed any help he would be right out...after that things calmed down...

Next morning we made breakfast and the fire...it was so nice! Our neighbor was cooking bacon on the open fire and doing eggs on his Coleman...it looked good. We made rice with almonds, craisins and hot chocolate mix....not bad! We had so much fun! But we were ready to get back to Seattle, take a shower and do something else!

Hiking and Camping

Okay, so I am going to backtrack a little...Memorial Day weekend...nearly two weeks ago...my husband and I headed to Seattle to meet my sister and her boyfriend for a weekend of hiking and camping. I got off work on Saturday and we headed over! It was a gorgeous day. My husband planned the trip. He is a really good trip planner. The one thing he does occasionally is under estimate distance and time...but other than that we have been on SEVERAL trips that have been great! As we left Spokane he mentioned that he was somewhat concerned about the campsite we were going to being filled or full..I told him not to worry, I thought it would be okay. So...on to Seattle...and as we went through the pass we stopped to check the parking lot and it was nearly empty...good sign. My concern was snow...Tim had talked to a ranger that said there was snow on the trail...but Tim took that to mean that snow was there...but not covering. So...we didn't think much about it. Got up Sunday morning and headed to our trail head. The plan was to hike with packs to our campsite...then camp overnight and hike back out. We were excited and all of us had some good weight on us. I would guess 20-25 lbs per person except my husband, his was heaviest...maybe 30 lbs.

The day was GORGEOUS...weather was sunny and cool...looked like it would warm up for the day. We arrived at the parking lot and it was still looking good for campsites. So we got all ready to go and started out. The trail was gorgeous...the scenery was spectacular...and as we hiked we had several people pass us...just on a day hike and headed up to the lake (our destination). So, we got to a point where people were coming back down...we asked if they made it to the lake, they said no...too much snow. We were still hiking on mud and dirt. As we hiked further we did hit snow...but it was on the trail and off to the side...not a completely covered ground...and as we hit snow we also hit a much steeper trail. We were still pretty pumped! Well the day went on, we kept hiking, the snow was getting more dense and people were still saying they didn't make it to the lake. We finally stopped and sent Tim ahead without his pack to check it out. We sat on the side of the mountain and ate gorp and ham and cheese wraps. It was great...but felt a little chilly after sitting there for awhile.

Tim returned and said...you aren't going to believe this, but we need to turn around and go back down...he had gone another 150 ft or so and came to a snow covered trail...no indicators as to where the trail was and the snow was significantly deeper. So...we packed it up and headed down. The trip down was intense...snow, slippery, with packs...but we made it. My sister and I had our hearts set on camping...but nothing was open or it was full in the mountains. So, we headed in to North Bend and Snoqualmie to see what we could find. We found a RV and Tent site...my husband's idea of a NIGHTMARE...but my sister and I were ready to find a place to camp...in our tent...with a campfire.

New Resolve

So, I weighed in Saturday after about two weeks. I had gained .4 (so not even half a pound). I am at 185.4, a little over 10 lbs away from my goal. I feel like I have been here and failed too many times. I realize I shouldn't be too hard on myself. But it is hard. I wish I could eat whenever I want...whatever I want. I know I can't. But it is hard. I need to make lifelong changes...and that means breaking habits that I have formed for nearly 30 years! It is hard. But, I am resolved. I plan to get on track. Not beat myself up about my mistakes and get to my goal! I went to the grocery and purchased things that I used when I first started on this journey in May 2007. My hope is these items will help me right now. I also need to get back into some regular exercise! I plan to walk to work 4 days this week! I would love to return to yoga...but I need to find out what in the world is going on with my arms...they aren't working right now...UGH! Anyway...I figure if I get this in writing...I have a reminder and a way to keep myself accountable. I will try and write both my successes and failures. Hopefully I am going to hit goal before my birthday in July!

Bloomsday...a little late!

Okay, I did Bloomsday, although there is no real record of it. I swear I checked the ankle thing before I left the registration pickup...and I swear I put the thing on the right ankle...but I am not in the finishers anywhere...all of the other people I walked with are. Oh well. It was a chilly day...promised rain. So, we bundled up in our rain gear and made sure we had layers. We had a great walk. At first we were averaging 15 to 16 minute miles...walking of course and then...I drink a lot of water so right before Doomsday Hill I needed to pee...and we LOST our great average...we would have done so much better. There needs to be something we can do to avoid having to pee during the walk. I can not imagine not drinking water! So...I have to think of something next year, OR I need to ignore the urge. Last year I had hoped to walk with a 20 lb pack...well, my backpack was about 10lbs...maybe next year. And...recovery wasn't too bad. We got home Sunday after walking and eating at Red Robin, and everyone wanted to nap. I was sore Monday and maybe sore Tuesday...but nothing too major! If you haven't ever done Bloomsday, try it! I hope to do it again next year!

Quick Trip to California

So, April 25th was my mother-in-law's birthday, my husband and I flew to CA for the weekend, well Saturday night, to Tuesday AM. We met his brother there from DC and we had a great weekend. My in-law's live in Santa Rosa, CA...right in the heart of wine country. Sadly my husband is on a alcohol free journey until June 15th...due to some bloodwork. Anyway, I felt guilty that we chose Chateau Montelana to visit...for those of you unfamiliar, this is the winery in Napa Valley that put CA on the map of the world for wines. Have you seen Bottle Shock? if you haven't it is a Hollywood version of the events...very good! Anyway. I was pleased with the wine I tasted there and for the first time in my life considered paying more than 20 for a bottle of wine...145 to be exact, it was THAT good! We also paid a visit to the original CIA for a cooking demonstration...the menu was gluten free and since this is the life my husband and I now lead...well, it was appropriate. So interesting and YUMMY! I can't wait to try it at home. We ate some REALLY good food. If you are ever in the Oakland, Ca area...try http://www.soizicbistro.com/

it is soooo yummy! And we ate at Bouchon Bistro http://www.bouchonbistro.com/ while in wine country...also good. And, spring had definitely sprung! It was soooo beautiful and green. It was a shock to come back to Spokane to its 40 degrees and rain and sleet...UGH! Happy Birthday Ellen, we had a great time!!

STRUGGLING WITH WEIGHT LOSS

Okay...on April 14th I hit a 5% goal of 183 lbs...I left the meeting and ate two slices of pizza from Pizza Pipeline and a Pepsi. Then I thought my week would be okay. Well, my time of the month came and that makes me a little nuts when it comes to food. But, I have made it through weeks without incredible weight gain...so I kept thinking I will snap out of it. The week went from bad to worse...I couldn't get myself out of the hole (edible book contest, four cream cheese brownies...etc) and when I weighed in Tuesday April 21 I had gained 2 lbs. So, as I left the meeting I told myself, get back on track, don't eat crap, and it can come off this week. Well, I proceeded to have a whopper Jr with cheese and a blizzard from DQ (my first one of the season) and it was 75 degrees out, perfect ice cream weather. So...I get through Tuesday okay...but yesterday, I was doing sooooo good. Yes, I had a Reese cup...but all in all my food choices had been pretty good. But, in Economics class last night there was a discussion about pizza...and before i knew it I was ordering a small cheese pizza, the clerk gave me a free Pepsi and I was eating it...the WHOLE thing. UGH! Do you think I felt sick? Well, no I didn't...which was HORRIBLE. usually when I make poor food choices I get that sick feeling and I think I don't want to do this again! Well, I didn't get it. Well not right away anyway. This morning I felt a little off. But...I need to stop this madness! What is wrong with me? Normally I make bad decisions for a day and then I get back on track...well, I am struggling. I want to eat more. This totally sucks because I have 10 pounds to lose before I have hit goal...and I have struggled with this for a LONG time. My first 50 lbs came off in a year. It has taken me nearly a year to take off 14 lbs...and 4 of those lbs keep coming and going! UGH!! I need someone to smack me or something. Anyway, just wanted to share! Hopefully I can re coop and get back on track! I am walking BLOOMSDAY in a couple weeks...that should smack it out of me!

Getting Sick...

So, just a few days ago while surrounded by co-workers who were blowing their noses and coughing I thought to myself...wow, I haven't been sick in awhile...how lucky am I? And then, not more than 24 hours later, it hit me...it was just a small ache in the back of my throat on Thursday...by Friday I was feeling exhausted and run down, and began to breathe with difficulty...and now, Sunday night...my right side of my head is clogged...my ear hurts, I can't breathe and I can't get that nasty metallic, dry, gross taste out of my mouth whatever I do. I think it is moving...the sore throat isn't as bad...I am taking night time theraflu...which is SOOOO gross, and yet, what a night of sleep. My husband claims that two nights ago my cat was practically dancing on me and still I slept! Oh well, I imagine this is what I get for being so cocky about my health! To make matters worse...It was SOOOOO gorgeous outside yesterday and today...and I couldn't even get myself out to enjoy it. The spirit was willing but my body was screaming, rest you fool! And...as luck would have it, it is spring...couldn't I have gotten sick last weekend...or even better a month ago? Anyway, just a word of warning about thinking how good you have it...sometimes it can come back and bite you in the...well you know!