Hall of Fame

New Johnson Blog

2011-12-29T22:08:00.001-08:00

johnson1219.blogspot.com

NEW BLOG

2011-12-29T21:53:00.001-08:00

This was my personal blog as Jennifer Hall, however with recent nuptials I will be creating a NEW blog for the NEW family. Address to be posted within a few days. It will be private so I will need to invite you to view it. If you wish to follow our journey please email me (tantoreleph@gmail.com) so I can invite you.

Favorite Quotes

2011-10-20T04:07:00.000-07:00

"We enjoy warmth because we have been cold. We appreciate light because we have been in darkness. By the same token, we can experience joy because we have known sadness." - David Weatherford

"Discovered who were my real friends. I just wished that wasn't the way I had to discover." - Anonymous

Singing Again

2011-09-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

So it's been a few years since I really sang. I mean I sing in the car and shower, but never really sing SING. When I was into singing I would practice to Sarah Brightman, Phantom of the Opera, and Charlotte Church. I figured since I've begun walking/running I want to also increase my lung capacity to what it use to be, so I decided to begin singing again. I'm not promising that I'll be good or great, but singing also makes me feel better about myself, so regardless what I sound like I'm going to sing.

Labor Day Fun

2011-09-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

One of the things about being home all weekend with nothing to do, I tend to always find something inside the home to change. Today I decided to change around my closet so I could actually get to my dresses and suits.

Before After

Crab Feast

2011-09-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Can't go wrong with Crabs and Friends :)

Part Time Job

2011-08-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

The search begins. All though I already have a super busy schedule I apparently feel the need to be busier. I have begun the search for an evening part time job for a few reasons:

1. Help get out of debt faster (CC debt and School Loan Debt, OH yeah and the new car debt).

2. Once out of debt have money for vacations and maybe the smart thing to put some aside for emergencies.

3. Um did I mention to get out of debt faster!!!

4. To begin saving up for a down payment on a new house for hopefully next summer. (Love my condo but it's time to expand to something larger, I have large furniture and feel cramped)

5. To ride unnecessary stress.

I have found 3 already that I will be calling tonight and sending in my resume to. If you read this and would just absolutely love to be a reference for me please text/call me and let me know. I would need some form of a title, and where you work along with a contact phone number.

Thank you in advanced to those who just can't wait to be a reference :)

Weight Loss

2011-08-11T11:46:00.001-07:00

For those that want to follow my weight loss please visit www.tantoreleph.blogspot.com
For those that want to follow my life basically (except the weight loss) stay on this blog

Getting Better

2011-08-05T17:30:00.001-07:00

I use to be so good at posting on here and I think I am going to use this more then FaceBook from now on. I typically use FB to play games anyways so for the next few posts I am going to mostly put pictures from albums in FB on here and remove them from FB. Don't honestly know how much longer I'm even going to use FB.

The Hills Adoption Option: Our Story

2011-02-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

The Hills Adoption Option: Our Story: "Troy and I (Lindsey, the author of these posts) were married in April of 2008. After a little over one year of marriage,&nbs..."

Pumpkin Cheesecake

2010-10-12T12:32:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Cheesecake

from the Lion House Classics Cookbook

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, rolled fine
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/3 cups plus 2 tablespoons pumpkin
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pint sour cream
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Mix graham cracker crumbs and butter or margarine. Press firmly onto bottom and sides of 9- or 10-inch springform pan. Whip cream cheese in mixer bowl; gradually add sugar, then eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla. In separate bowl, combine pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. Mix well; add to cream cheese mixture. Pour filling into crust. Bake at 300 degrees for 55 minutes. Whip sour cream; add sugar and vanilla. Spread on top of cheesecake and return to oven. Bake 10 more minutes. Cool before removing sides from springform pan. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Makes 10 to 12 servings.

Pole Dancing Like You've Never Seen It

2010-07-29T14:00:00.001-07:00

Last Soda

2010-07-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

One of my employees bet me that I could not go till the end of the month without ANY sodas, so I am going to prove him wrong. Today will be my last soda not just till the end of the month but for good. I've done it before, for a year, I can do it again this time longer.

Acai Berries

2010-07-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

Ok so I am only going to blog about this here, not on FaceBook.

Everyone keeps asking me how I lost most of my weight without even exercising, well to be honesty I started taking the Acai Berry Pills in December 2008 faithfully. I noticed weight coming off and then started taking 2 Fiber Choice Weight Management Chewable tablets every night. I also took out Soda and decreased my fast food to better choices, like chicken sandwiches vs burgers.

January 2009 I weighted in at 272.2 lbs, bu December I was down to about 210lbs.

For the last few months I have been bouncing back and forth between 190lbs and 200lbs. I am happy that I have been able to keep off the 80ish lbs for so long, but it is time to loose more. I would love to be down between 140lbs and 150lbs. SO you ask what am I going to do about it. I still have enough Acai Berry pills and I am going to add to it a Cleanser pill to help boost energy.

I know some people reading this may be skeptical and have an opinion that I shouldn't do this or I should do something else instead or this or that; but whatever reasoning you may have, to be honest I really don't want to hear backlash about this endeavor that I am going to take. It works for me and that's all that matters.

My plan is to post an update weekly to keep anyone who may be interested informed as to how things are coming along. If you haven't seen a post for a while and want to know shoot me an email and Ill hop on and post something.

Today's weigh in 7/2/10 - 191.2 down exactly 81lbs

My New Couches

2010-04-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

Ok so they are new as of the end of November, but I have yet to post pictures of them. . . so enjoy

Louie Vito & Chelsie Hightower - Jitterbug - Finale

2009-11-25T05:56:00.000-08:00

Carving Pumpkins 2009

2009-10-25T10:17:00.001-07:00

I actually like the way my pumpkin turned out this year - first in a few years

Weight Loss

2009-10-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Just an update on the Weight Loss

Down 20lbs

Down 40.4lbs

Down 60lbs

Down 73.6lbs

Re-Updated Pictures of Condo

2009-07-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

K so I didn't like the pictures that were up of my new place, they were not clear so i have taken some more :)

I was also told last night that the pictures don't do it justice - oh yeah that's cuz I've got a super nice place

LOL I was watching Duck Tales when I took these pictures - See Ma Beagle

Silly Iris

2009-06-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share the most recent picture of my silly Iris

New Condo

2009-06-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some of the first pictures (Pre furniture) of my new condo :)

Enterance Way
-To the Right is the Living Room and Dining Room
- Straight a head is the enterance to the kitchen

Living Room / Dining Room

Living Room

Kitchen

Hallway to Bedrooms

Master Bedroom
-Left Door: Closet
-Middle Door: Bathroom
-Right Door: Hallway

Simon Stood for a Standing Ovation? ? ?

2009-04-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

So the song I want to play for you, after Adam finished singing they were out of time and Simon said well Ive got good news and bad news. The bad news is that I'm the only one who will be talking, and the good news is . . . . then he stood I mean actually stood and gave Adam a standing ovation. Then the rest of the judges and audience followed. I have NEVER seen Simon give a standing ovation after a performance (well except when the final winner is announced)

Dear Mr. Thatcher,

2009-03-25T10:43:00.001-07:00

This is an actual letter from an Austin woman sent
to American company Proctor and Gamble regarding their feminine products. She really gets rolling after the first paragraph. It's PC Magazine's 2007 editors'choice for best webmail-award-winning letter.

Dear Mr. Thatcher,
I have been a loyal user of your 'Always' maxi pads
for over 20 years and I appreciate many of their features. Why,
without the LeakGuard Core or Dri-Weave absorbency, I'd probably never go
horseback riding or salsa dancing, and I'd certainly steer clear of running up
and down the beach in tight, white shorts. But my favorite feature has
to be your revolutionary Flexi-Wings. Kudos on being the only
company smart enough to realize how crucial it is that maxi pads be
aerodynamic. I can't tell you how safe and secure I feel each month knowing
there's a little F-16 in my pants.

Have you ever had a menstrual period, Mr. Thatcher?
Ever suffered from 'the curse'? I'm guessing you haven't. Well, my time
of the month is starting right now. As I type, I can already feel
hormonal forces violently surging through my body. Just a few
minutes from now, my body will adjust and I'll be transformed into what my
husband likes to call 'an inbred hillbilly with knife skills.' Isn't the
human body amazing?

As Brand Manager in the Feminine-Hygiene Division,
you've no doubt seen quite a bit of research on what exactly happens
during your customers monthly visits from 'Aunt Flo'. Therefore, you must
know about the bloating, puffiness, and cramping we endure, and
about our intense mood swings, crying, jags, and out-of-control behavior.
You surely realize it's a tough time for most women. In fact, only last
week, my friend Jennifer fought the violent urge to shove her
boyfriend's testicles into a George Foreman Grill just because he told her he
thought Grey's Anatomy was written by drunken chimps. Crazy!

The point is, sir, you of all people must realize
that America is just crawling with homicidal maniacs in Capri pants...
Which brings me to the reason for my letter. Last month, while in the
throes of cramping so painful I wanted to reach inside my body and yank
out my uterus, I opened an Always maxi-pad, and there, printed on the
adhesive backing, were these words: 'Have a Happy Period.'

Are you kidding me? What I mean is, does any part of
your tiny middle-manager brain really think happiness - actual
smiling, laughing happiness - is possible during a menstrual period? Did
anything mentioned above sound the least bit pleasurable? Well, did it,
James? FYI, unless you're some kind of sick S&M freak girl, there will
never be anything 'happy' about a day in which you have to jack
yourself up on Motrin and Kahlua and lock yourself in your house just so you
don't march down to the local Walgreen's armed with a hunting rifle and
a sketchy plan to end your life in a blaze of glory.

For the love of God, pull your head out, man! If you
just have to slap a moronic message on a maxi pad, wouldn't it make more
sense to say something that's actually pertinent, like 'Put down
the Hammer' or 'Vehicular Manslaughter is Wrong', or are you just
picking on us?

Sir, please inform your Accounting Department that,
effective immediately, there will be an $8 drop in monthly
profits, for I have chosen to take my maxi-pad business elsewhere. And
though I will certainly miss your Flexi-Wings, I will not for one
minute miss your brand of condescending messages. And that's a
promise I will keep. Always.

Best Wishes,
Wendi Aarons
Austin , TX

Pensioner gears up for 772nd driving test

2009-02-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

SEOUL, South Korea (CNN) -- One could say she has the determination ... but lacks the drive.

A 68-year-old South Korean woman this week signed up to take her driving test once again -- after failing to earn a license the first 771 times.

The woman, identified only as Cha, first took the written portion of the exam in April 2005, said Choi Young-cheol of the Driver's License Agency in the southwestern city of Jeonju.

At the time, she made her living selling goods door-to-door and figured she would need a car to help her get around, Choi told CNN.

She failed the test. She retook the test the next day and failed again. And again. And again.

"You have to get at least 60 points to pass the written part," said Kim Rahn, who wrote about the unflappable woman in the Korea Times, an English-language daily. "She usually gets under 50."

In the beginning, Cha went to the license office almost every day. Now, she no longer works but still turns up once a week, Choi said.

The office estimates she has spent more than 4 million won ($2,888) in exam fees.

Cha's last failed attempt was Monday.

She tries for the 772nd time either Thursday or Friday

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/02/05/korea.driving.license/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

The Parrot

2008-12-01T10:19:00.000-08:00

A young man named John received a parrot as an early Christmas gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music and anything else he could think of to 'clean up' the bird's vocabulary.

Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back.

John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even ruder. John, in desperation, threw up his hands, grabbed the bird and shoved him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute.

Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said 'I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior.' John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued....

........"May I inquire as to what the turkey did?'

~ Happy Thanksgiving to all ~

Cutest Picture Ever

2008-11-10T11:42:00.000-08:00

So I am in the midst of putting up some pictures from seeing Trans Siberian Orchestra when Paula sent me a picture of Kumen and their dog Lotti sleeping. I stopped what I was doing to post this picture, it is so cute

Halloween Time at HWT

2008-10-31T09:00:00.001-07:00

Well it's Halloween time again and I have to say I was quite impressed with the turn out of costumes this year where I work compared to last year. There were only 3-4 people dressed up last year.

Here are a few selections of what costume designs people came up with:

One of those picture frames at a beach you put your head and arms in

We even had Santa come a little early this year. You've gotta love your job when the Head Honcho Boss shows up as Santa Clause :)

Yes we had a guest visitor as well. Who knew that Sara Palin would stop by and visit us non Mavericks. Of course she had to take her picture with the King. I nominate the King for King of HWT at least for a day, maybe a week.

It might just be me but I don't think I have ever seen a better looking Medusa, then again if I had ever seen a real Medusa before I guess I would be all stone right now.

The wonderful thing about tiggers, Is tiggers are wonderful things, Their tops are made out of rubber, Their bottoms are made out of springs, They're bouncy,trouncy,flouncy,POUNCY, Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun! Fun! But the most wonderful thing about tiggers is I'm the only one!!

Now don't get alarmed this is a wig, but I think she could pull this off on a daily occurrence, what do you think?

Some of the products we sell can be assembled to make what we call Mat Man. We had a book come out this year called Mat Man Hats so we decided to not only be Mat Man but all different Hats from the book.

Then of course we have to do an individual shot of the Cold Stone Mat Man. It didn't make it into this book, but I'm pushing to get it into the next book.

Last but not least I want to thank Julie for the cute picture this year for my Birthday Email to the company. I also wanted to bring out last years picture as well. I love them both. Thanks Julie for a great job on both. The Dancing Elephant was this years, and the Mat Man riding the Elephant was last years. I look forward to these every year :)

Men are such Hypocrits

2008-10-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

I just got this e-mail and it made me laugh so I just wanted to share it :)

This morning on the Interstate, I looked over to my left and there was a
Woman in a brand new Cadillac doing 75 mph with her face, up next to her
rear view mirror putting on her eyeliner.

I looked away for a couple seconds. When I looked back she was halfway
over in my lane, still working on that makeup. As a man, I don't scare
easily but she scared me so much I dropped my electric shaver which
knocked the doughnut I was eating out of my other hand.

In all the confusion of trying to straighten out the car using my knees
against the steering wheel, it knocked my cell phone away from my ear.
It fell into the coffee which was between my legs. The coffee splashed
and burned Big Jim and the Twins, ruined the damn phone, soaked my
trousers, and disconnected an important call.

Damn women drivers!!

Who Says a Man Can't Be A Belly Dancer

2008-10-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

Graduation Party

2008-10-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

My mom was finally finished her classes for her bachelors. All though she still needs to take the classes for her Teaching Certificate, the long hard part is over. To celebrate this accomplishment my dad and I threw her a surprise party. There was alot of fun going on that I was only able to take a few pictures.

I set up mostly everything the night before as I knew my time would be limited Saturday to get the food, set it up all before she got there. Since my mom really likes Popeyes, we opted for that.

Cards
For her gift, a few days ago she mentioned that one of her brothers stopped by her moms house and gave her mom some Saskatoon Berries. My grandma then made a Saskatoon pie. Apparently one of my moms favorites. Well I think I was able to top that. . . The card reads as follows. . .

Did you know. . .

Serviceberry - Also known as shadebush because they bloom when the shade are running in the spring. The name serviceberry has kind of an interesting etymology, too, that I learned about in college while studying the cemetery in Old Jaffrey Center. Before we has backhoes, graves were obviously dug by hand. So when the serviceberry bloomed, it indicated that the ground had thawed enough to bury the winter's dead. It is also called Juneberry for obvious reasons, as well as Saskatoon which is the Cree word for the plant. The fruit is not actually a berry but a pome, which is the same type of fruit as an apple. The pomes are really vaulable to wildlife, and they're pretty tasty. I had my first one of these this morning, too, although I had some difficulty finding a ripe one. The dark pink in the picture is as ripe as they get, but the birds usually devour them before people get a chance.

Now you are probably thinking to yourself ok, yeah I know this so what's the point. WELL the point is that with all your hard work with great grandma, being a full time teacher, taking classes full time and being a wonderful mother I decided to get you your very own Saskaton (or for the states Serviceberry) tree. It will be here Monday and we can decide wehre to plant it then. Thanks for everything you do mom. I Love You :) Ok yeah I said it :)

I will be taking Saskies (the tree) first picture later this week and continually post pictures as she grows :)

Lunch
Once the cards were give we all sat down for some good food. Please enjoy the random pictures below to capture the lunch.

Silly Iris

2008-10-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

So I am sitting here (1120pm) finishing up some work and I look over at Iris and she has jumped up on a little desk I have and there is an empty paper box she wanted to sit in. She is so cute. . . just wanted to share :)

Random Pictures

2008-10-10T19:50:00.001-07:00

I was cleaning out my computer of old files and came across some oldie but goodie pictures, I wanted to take a few minutes and share with everyone.

I don't know what the alligator was doing with those two turtles but it looked funny enough to me to take a picture.

The Sushi is from last year at work, we had a sushi party, it was really good.

The golf picture is proof that I at least know how to put the golf ball on the peg and hold the club right. Now how far the ball goes, well that depends if I am using my dads clubs or my moms :)

The picture of the clouds is curtosy of my cell phone, one day I was driving home and I looked up and the clouds seemed to look like a bird (the clouds towards the top of the picture, the thinner ones).

The Salt and Pepper, well I was just trying out a new camera, question is can anyone tell me where I was at the time? the table is very distinctive for this restaurant.

Lastly the Canadian Flag and US Flag. . if I have to explain the meaning then obviously you are not aware that my mom is Canadian and my dad is US.

Updated Office

2008-10-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

So a few posts ago I put pictures up of the office in progress. Well after I posted those I was informed that a desk would be up for grabs at work, and I asked if my name could be put on the list. Well I was the one that got it :) So here are the most recent pictures of the office update. Looking good so far I have to say.

Sprained Ankle

2008-10-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

So as some of you may have heard, I have sprained, thankfully my left ankle. I would be so bummed if it were my right, then I couldn't drive and we can't have that.

After a few requests I have decided to share my pain. . . please do not continue if you can't stomach bruises.

With each day it seems to be more bruised then before.

Day 1 (first picture) a little bruising along the base of my foot and some above my ankle.
Day 2 (second picture) a little thicker line of bruising below my ankle.
Day 3 (third picture) starting to bruise along the top of my foot toward my toes.
Day 4 (fourth picture) more bruising and going down on my foot more towards my toes
Day 5 (fifth picture) EWWW bruising is official down at my toes and look how swollen it still is.
1 Week Later and the inside of my ankle is really starting to bruise. I hope it is getting better.

It's amazing that the bruising looks worse every day but it feels a little better each day. These pictures don't completely capture the purple and green.

New Web Cam

2008-10-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

So a few months ago where I work gave every employee a gift card. I have been holding onto mine for a while, and finally decided that I wanted to buy a Web Cam to talk to all my friends with. Well I got it and I LOVE IT!!!

Wedding Pictures - McKall (my cousin) and Tyson Scott

2008-09-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Engagement Pictures

McKall and Tyson Scott

The Wedding - At the Temple
Pictures of the wedding Courtesy of Paula's Pictures
http://paulaspictures.homestead.com/

The Wedding - The Reception
Pictures of the wedding reception Courtesy of Paula's Pictures
http://paulaspictures.homestead.com/

Of course my dad did the music - which is why he is not in any pictures. I do have to say I love the pink shoes and pink socks. My relationship with McKall is her mother is one of my mothers younger sisters - thus cousins :)

Random Iris

2008-09-20T18:13:00.003-07:00

I noticed I haven't put many pictures of Iris up here yet. Here are some new ones, she is just so funny and cute :)

New Office

2008-09-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Since grandma moved out I have been working very slowly at converting her old room (previously Paula's room) into a semi office relax room.

Here are some pictures to show the progress :)

Glass/Screen Door

2008-09-20T18:04:00.000-07:00

Ok so I think I am the only person I know who gets excited about a new front door. This isn't just any front door though, it is a glass/screen door. There are two panels of glass and the top one locks into place. When it is unlocked as you pull it down part way or all the way to mid door a screen just comes out of no-where. Well ok so it is rolled up in the top part of the door that you can't see. It is just an awesome door, check it out:

(the top part is all the way down, that's why you can see a reflection on the lower part and right into the house on the top part)

Trip to Idaho

2008-08-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

Wedding Pictures
(more to come)

Yellowstone Bear World
While in sitting around my Aunt and Uncles house one morning no one knew what to do for the day and I thought to myself, lets go drive around Bear World and enjoy seeing the animals. We piled everyone in the car and headed up the road.

While we were there, there were so many different sites to see. They have a white Elk, very rare, and tons of bears. I think my favorite picture form the day are the two bears playing in the water. All though I was driving I saw them in the water, quickly unrolled my window (shh don't tell anyone, they ask you to keep them up) and grabbed the camera and took the shot. It turned out pretty well I do have to say so myself. Also while I was driving along I saw the papa moose, again I grabbed the camera and shot, it looks as if her were posing just for me. What a poser :)

While we were driving around a white trunk pulled into the park, it was a tour bus that goes around and feeds the bears. In some pictures you can see the bears sitting on the ground clapping their paws and waiting for their food. It is so cute to see.

They have a path to follow while you drive through. Here are the animals we were able to see:

After we drove through the zoo we all got out of the car and headed towards the petting zoo. The swan was so cool to watch as she dunk for fish, you can see her neck deep under the water. The little chickens and fawns were so cute. It was fun petting all the animals and seeing just how soft they were.

At the end of the petting zoo were some amusement rides for the children. Of course my cousin Logan and his mother couldn't help but riding a few of them.

St Paul Airport
Well we left Thursday morning from Idaho Falls and our plane was delayed 30 minutes, not too bad, but that got us into St Paul late and had to run from gate 12 to gate 38. We were delayed 4 hours and had to switch planes. Man were we so glad to get home.

The Wedding Invitation

2008-08-22T05:44:00.001-07:00

Weddings are suppose to be a happy blissful event in ones life celebrated with family and friends. Apparently this father feels differently:

Trip to the Washington National Zoo

2008-07-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

One Saturday Paula and I were wondering what to do and it just seemed natural to take a trip to the zoo and take some pictures which is something we both really enjoy doing.

There was this one lioness that apparently really wanted to play with the ball in the water. However when she went to swat at the ball to bring it closer it just pushed it further out into the water, so the second one came running over to see if she could help. Well they gave up and just laid down in the hot sun to relax. Finally after being patient the ball just came to the lion and they could both enjoy the fun in the sun.

When we got to the Zoo there were signs up saying that the orangutans would be out at certain times of the day. I started thinking to myself that I have lived in the DC area since 1988 and as many times as I have been to the Zoo I had never seen the orangutans out walking along the ropes above everyone. I was like a kid in a candy store, it was so cool to see.

Here are some misc pictures I thought were interesting. Check out the snakes mouth, it looks viscous to me. This turtle was actually not the largest one there, however it was the clearest picture to come out, so sorry to say be you all get second largest :) The next two pictures I am not sure what they are called but they were very interesting to watch and I felt mesmerized watching them swim around. Then I turned around and about fell on the floor when I saw that lobster in its very own tank that was probably 12' by 12' by 10' all for him, due to his enormous size

Everywhere we we stood around the ape area this particular mother ape would stare you down, like how dare you bother me while I'm sun bathing. The more I stared at her the more worried I got because her face slowly turned to this scowl that looks like she should belong in the mafia.

YAY it took almost all day but finally we made it to the elephants. I knew since the last time I was there that a baby had been born and I was anxious to see the little one. As many of you know elephants are my absolute favorite animal, and this was just a highlight to my day. Then I started reading about the changed to the zoo and they are making this elephant stampede ground which will allow the elephants roam in a much freer and in a super large area. It was so nice to see the baby elephant playing along side his parents.

Since I was able to see the elephants my sister said we couldn't leave without checking out the birdhouse, I'm not a huge fan of birds but since she let me stay with the elephants for quite a long time, I felt like I owed her :) She loves large birds and can't wait to have one of her very own.

I had never seen a flamingo before I think we spent the most amount of time here watching them. It was so interesting to see the way they walked and basically interacted with each other. Their necks surprised me as to how flexible they are and how far behind them they can reach. Sadly I always thought that flamingos were only pink, I didn't know there were ones that were all white, and I think those were my favorites to watch, just because they are so different then what most typically think of with a flamingo.

I have seen hippos before but I think this was probably the largest hippo I have ever seen. As he walked around his I was amazed at the agility they have for being such a large animal and especially with such short stubby legs. I was hoping he would yawn or at least open his mouth really wide, and unfortunately he didn't, my goal is to get a nice clear picture of just how wide they can open their mouth, I have see it on TV and its just amazing, and can't wait to see it in person.

I didn't know that the zoo had a little petting zoo for the children. The donkeys were fun to watch play tug-of-war and then to finish things off with the Lamas brought a nice close to a fun day. I cant wait to go back

Going Away Party For Paula & Kumen Continued

2008-07-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

So Paula got accepted into Dental Hygienist School in Dallas Texas, and it came time for them to finally move. However do you think they couldn't have left without having a party of all parties with all o their loved ones sharing in the fun? Paula and Kumen were able to get a hold of some fresh Crayfish and that started the menu for our BBQ Going Away Party. (more pictures from previous post)

When we got the crayfish at the house the first thing that had to be done was they needed to be flushed clean. I think we filled and emptied this cooler about 15 times before we started cooking them. As the water level got higher all the crayfish wanted to do was swim around and apparently be the ones on the top. I would have thought they would want to be on the bottom to live a little bit longer. Then again they didn't know what we were going to do with them.

And the cooking begins. As Kumen and dad start up the steamer kettles to cook get a start on the potatoes, corn, and onions before the crayfish was added. They only needed a few minutes in the heat. We also had some awesome chicken cooked by who else other then mom, and Paula added some vegetables to the BBQ to add some color and healthiness.

Paula found a website online that would ship Crayfish to any location in the US, and of course she couldn't pass this up. The main dish at the party were the crayfish and everything else just became a side. I have never even tried lobster I was really worried about trying crayfish, and knew that I would ever love it or hate it. Well lest just say I had one and don't think I will have another anytime soon :)

Lastly I just wanted to say thank you to all those that came out to support Paula and Kumen on their move to Texas and to celebrate with us during this wonderful goodbye party.

Going Away Party - Paula & Kumen

2008-06-27T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the going away party we had for Paula and Kumen as they will be leaving Maryland on July 1, 2008 (exactly 20 years to the day that Paula moved to Maryland with the wonderful Hall Family http://budandjo.blogspot.com/).

Here is my dad showing Little Da (Brennan Zhao) the ropes of taking over the family business of DJing all the church dances. Brennan looks like he loves his new gig.

We can't leave out Brennan's Little Brother Clayton. Looks like he loves his soda.

As a going away present our friend/classmate Jackie put on three wonderful dances for us. The pictures are not technically in order of the dance but they definitely show case her gorgeous style

The Sexual Urge of Men and Women

2008-06-16T13:41:00.001-07:00

I hope no one is offended by this but we thought it was so funny!!

Enjoy...

I never quite figured out why the sexual urge of men and women differ so much. And I never have figured out the whole Venus and Mars thing. I have never figu red out why men think with their head and women with their heart.

FOR EXAMPLE:

One evening last week, my girlfriend and I were getting into bed. Well, the passion starts to heat up, and she eventually says, 'I don't feel like it, I just want you to hold me.'

I said, 'WHAT??!! What was that?!'

So she says the words that every boyfriend on the planet dreads to hear...

'You're just not in touch with my emotional needs as a woman enough for me to satisfy your physical needs as a man.'

She responded to my puzzled look by saying, 'Can't you just love me for who I am and not what I do for you in the bedroom?'

Realizing that nothing was going to happen that night, I went to sleep.

The very next day I opted to take the day off of work to spend time with her. We went out to a nice lunch and then went shopping at a big, big unnamed department store. I walked around with her while she tried on several different very expensive outfits. She couldn't decide which one to take, so I told her we'd just buy them all. She wanted new shoes to compliment her new clothes, so I said, 'Lets get a pair for each outfit.'

We went on to the jewelry department where she picked out a pair of diamond earrings. Let me tell you... she was so excited. She must have thought I was one wave short of a shipwreck. I started to think she was testing me because she asked for a tennis bracelet when she doesn't even know how to play tennis

I think I threw her for a loop when I said, 'That's fine, honey.' She was almost nearing sexual satisfaction from all of the excitement. Smiling with excited anticipation, she finally said, 'I think this is all
dear, let's go to the cashier.'

I could hardly contain myself when I blurted out, 'No honey, I don't feel like it.'

Her face just went completely blank as her jaw dropped with a baffled, 'WHAT?'

I then said, 'Honey! I just want you to HOLD this stuff for a while. You're just not in touch with my financial needs as a man enough for me to satisfy your shopping needs as a woman.'

And just when she had this look like she was going to kill me, I added, 'Why can't you just love me for who I am and not for the things I buy you?'

Apparently I'm not having sex tonight either....but at least she knows how I feel.

3 Day Boil Water Advisory

2008-06-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

Many people have been questioning the water main break in Montgomery County. I just got this e-mail alert and felt it appropriate to pass on.

As per the attached release, a three-day BOIL WATER ADVISORY has been issued this morning for portions of Montgomery County outside the Beltway.

BOIL WATER ADVISORY FOR CUSTOMERS IN PORTIONS OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY MANDATORY WATER RESTRICTIONS ALSO IN EFFECT

Contact WSSC Communications 301.206.8100

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) is issuing a precautionary boil water advisory for Montgomery County outside the beltway, with the exception of customers who receive their water from the City of Rockville. The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission experienced a major water main break at 9:15 p.m. on Sunday evening. This resulted in the loss of water pressure or water service for large areas of Montgomery County outside the Beltway.

When water systems lose pressure there is an increased risk of contamination. Although we do not have an indication that the water system has been contaminated, as a precaution, the WSSC and the Maryland Department of the Environment recommend if you live outside the beltway in Montgomery County, that you boil all water before use. Water should be brought to a rolling boil for one minute and cooled before using. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and food preparation. The boil water advisory will continue until further notice, the water pressure is returned, the system is thoroughly flushed and the acceptable water quality is confirmed by water testing.

We expect this process to take at least three days.

In addition, Mandatory Water Restrictions are now in effect for those customers in this same geographic area. This is an effort to keep up water pressure for fire protection. These restrictions include;

* No outside watering
* No filling swimming pools
* No laundry
* No dishwashing
* Limit toilet flushing

These restrictions will remain in effect until some time later today. We regret the inconvenience that this may cause. Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You

can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail For more information, please contact WSSC Communications at 301.206.8100.

Next Tattoo?

2008-06-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking about getting this as my next tattoo. What do you think? It is the Aum (Om) symbol. I am thinking of getting it between my shoulder blades or my inner arm.

Two of the Best People I Know . . .

2008-04-16T06:27:00.001-07:00

WOW It has been a while since I have posted something on here.

I was blessed to attend the beautiful ceremony of Lindsey and Troy

Troy and Lindsey with Mama

Deonte, Troy and Lindsey - before all of the crying and ceremony

That would be Me, Troy, Lindsey and Talya. As we were taking the picture it was commented to stand black, white, black, white thus the funny looks on all of our faces :) we're just all crazy like that.

Then again outside, Me, Troy, Deonte, Lindsey and Talya it was such a nice day for a wedding

Washington DC Temple

2007-09-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

I think one of my favorite places to take pictures is at the Washington DC Temple. It is always so calm and peaceful there, even just walking around the outside. It seems that every time I go I tend to find some new way to take pictures and show a different side to the temple. I think these turned out pretty well, I just wished they were not as blurry as they are.

Butterfly Exhibit

2007-09-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

My sister and I went to the Butterfly Exhibit at Brookside Gardens. I know butterfly's can all look the same but at least I tried to get some with different colors.

Mehndi

2007-08-16T14:25:00.001-07:00

Well last night I went with my sister to our next door neighbors Bridal Party. There everyone got Mehndi done. It was really relaxing. For more on Mehndi check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehndi.

Here is the design on my hand as it was drying.

This is the design right after I washed off the Henna.

ummm it's GOOD Try one

2007-07-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hershey Announces "Elvis Cup" for July 2007

Recently, Hershey’s announced the “Elvis Cup”, a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup that includes a layer of Banana Creme. You may or may not know (if say, you’re blind), but Elvis loved to eat. One of his favorite foods was fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches, thus the inspiration for the new Reese’s cup. Hershey’s just added some chocolate and took away the fried aspect (though I’m sure a local county fair can help you with the fried aspect.)

This “limited edition” candy is being made in honor of the 30th Anniversary of The King’s passing. The candy will be on your shelves sometime in July ‘07, while Elvis’ actual date of death is August 16th. The candy, which will come in mini, standard and “king size”, will also include an instant win contest for a trip for two to Graceland.

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://candyaddict.com/blog/candy_pictures/hershey_elvis_cup.jpg&imgrefurl=http://candyaddict.com/blog/2006/12/12/hershey-announces-elvis-cup-for-july-2007/&h=145&w=325&sz=98&hl=en&start=25&amp;amp;um=1&tbnid=UvwCifQf7ChLQM:&tbnh=53&tbnw=118&prev=/images%3Fq%3DPeanut%2BButter%2BReeses%2BCups%2Bwith%2Bbanana%26start%3D20%26ndsp%3D20%26svnum%3D10%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26rls%3DGGIC,GGIC:1970--2,GGIC:en%26sa%3DN

Tennessee and all the Sites and Sounds

2007-07-05T14:22:00.001-07:00

The Adventure Begins. . .
As we head out West to Nashville, TN followed with Chattanooga TN for the blessing of one of my best friends little baby boys.

Hotel in Nashville - Guitar Pool?
Once we arrived in Nashville we stayed in the hotel known for its pool. Their pool is the only one in the nation shaped like a guitar (that they know of). I thought it was really cool, sadly we did not have time to go swimming in it as our days were so packed with adventure.

Touring Nashville
So we flew out to TN for the blessing of one of my best friends little boy. We went a few days early because we figured when will we get back out to Nashville, why not take the opportunity and tour the city and see all of the cites.

Ryman Auditorium
One of first places we stopped was the Ryman Auditorium, which is where the original Grand Old Opry took place. With the changing of times, it was felt that a more modern larger arena should be used, so the Ryman Auditorium was left and still has a few plays and concerts, but doe not house the Grand Old Opry anymore.

History of Nashville, TN
As we were touring around town we came across this part of town which had statues lined up creating a what looked like a time line representing the history of Nashville. Sadly we weren't able to stop and read it all but I thought it was interesting that the local government takes the time to continually add to it to share the history with everyone living there, and visitors that pass through the area.

The Parthenon
There is only one other place outside of Rome where there is an exact replica of the Parthenon. It happens to be in Nashville, TN. It was amazing to see just how it was created and the architecture of such a large building to have been built so many years ago.

Country Music Hall of Fame
I don't think I have seen so many gold and platinum albums at one time. Some of these pictures are just for fun to see a different perspective on something so simple like a staircase. Please enjoy.

General Jackson Show Boat
Now I am not one for boats as they make me really sick, I was really worried about this one. My parents assured me that this boat would move so slow that you would think we were still standing still. You know they were totally right. I really enjoyed the cruse we had on the General Jackson and the show that went along with it. I wished they had things like this around the area to enjoy with friends and family.

Hotel Room
When we got to Chattanooga we stayed in probably one of my favorite places (I didn't know it till I walked into the room though). I mean a perfect setting, jacuzzi and flat screen TVin the same room. The bed was so comfy it was really hard to get up each morning.

Ruby Falls
One day we went to a place called Ruby Falls . You start off above ground and take an elevator about 400+ feet below ground level to what looked like Luray Caverns, in VA. As we walked along this one path (one way in and one way out) we noticed beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations along the side of us. As we were walking along there were some points that were so narrow and to my surprise, we would have to squish against the rocks and let another group that was headed back pass us to get to the elevator. As you walk along eventually you get to an area where you hear this loud thunderous waterfall. It was explained to us that no one can seem to find where the beginning of the waterfall starts. It is just a mystery but what a glorious mystery.

Flight Home
It was such an awesome trip and I was very thankful to have gone, I will never forget this trip. Here are the last pictures of the trip home.

Tag, You're It!

2007-06-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

The rules in this game of tag are simple -- once you have been tagged, you must write a blog with ten, weird, random things, little known facts or habits about yourself.

10. Head Injuries - When we first moved to this area from Canada as we were unloading our stuff from the U-Haul truck I was standing there getting a box of records and my dad and uncle were bringing the fridge down. Well the freezer part of the fridge wasn’t secure and swung open and smacked into my head. I had a gash about 3-4 inches long and blood rushing down my face. A few years later I fell off the back of our couch and hit my head on the concrete behind the couch.

9. To pay for bills while in college I cut my roommates hair and other individuals who were willing to pay. I also did dying and highlighting.

8. All though you wouldn’t know it from how loud and boisterous my voice can be I can’t open my mouth that wide because I have really bad TMJ and if my mouth opens too wide it could potentially lock in place (not fun).

7. When I was a little girl my favorite gifts to get from people were boxes. Especially big ones, I don’t know why but I LOVED playing in empty boxes. Apparently I would get a gift, un wrap it, take everything out and just crawl/climb into the box and close the lid. Hum that might explain a lot right?

6. I love the outdoors and being adventurous. I like canoeing, climbing rocks, swimming in lakes, hiking trails. I would love to learn how to Kayak, propel off mountain sides, and hang glide.

5. As I was growing up I was the only one that I knew who had a dentist, orthodontist, and oral surgeon. I have had 21 teeth pulled and of those 21 - 4 were permanent (my mouth is too small for all my teeth).

4. Everything has to be lined up. Like when I eat M & Ms I line up all the reds then under that are all the oranges, then yellows and so on. Then I look and see which color has the most and eat that color until it matched up with another color then I alternate with those till all the colors have the same number of M&Ms and I eat red, then orange, then yellow and so on. This isn’t the only food I eat weird. Ask me and ill tell you more.

3. Although many times I do not dress fancy, or nice. Typically I am in sweats and a t-shirt. However when ever I leave my house no matter what I am wearing I have to match. Example: I have grey track pants I wear with a pink shirt. The grey track pants have a pink and white strip down the side of them. The shirt has “Chicago” written in black across the bust. I wear my pink, grey, and white sneakers with that outfit. Also on my fingers is a pink rubber band for my hair incase I want to pull it up that day. Talk about matching.

2. I have never watched Sesame Street in my life. I grew up watching Pee Wees play house. That really explains a lot about me doesn’t it.

1. When I drink water it pretty much has to be a block of ice melting, the water has to be SOOOO freezing cold or I really don’t like it, and won’t drink that much. I have grown an appreciation for water over the last few months YAY

Diploma or No?

2007-06-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

YAY well today after months of waiting I finally received my second diploma in the mail. I am officially DONE with school. I was so worried that for some unknown reason they were not going to send it to me. phew the waiting is over now :) I just have a smile from ear to ear and will for the rest of the day

To My Closest Friends:

2007-06-19T11:52:00.001-07:00

“Even though we've changed and we're all finding our own place in the world, we all know that when the tears fall or the smile spreads across our face, we'll come to each other because no matter where this crazy world takes us, nothing will ever change so much to the point where we're not all still friends.”

Somewhere I Belong

2007-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

So lately I have been in a really funky mood and the only thing I can find to express my feelings are songs, so you all are going to get to read lots of songs lyrics :) enjoy

Somewhere I Belong
By: Linkin Park

[Verse 1]
I had nothing to say
and i get lost in the nothingness inside of me
(i was confused)
and i live it all out to find, but im not the only person wit these things in mind
(inside of me)
but all that they can see the words revealed
is the only real thing that i got left to feel
(nothing to lose)
just stuck hollow and alone
and the fault is my own and the fault is my own

[Chorus]
i wanna heal i wanna feel what i thought was never real
i wanna let go of the pain ive felt so long.
erase all the pain til its gone
i wanna heal i wanna feel like im close to something real.
i wanna find something ive wanted all along
somewhere i belong

and i got nothing to say. i cant believe i didnt fall right down on my face
(i was confused)
look at everywhere only to find.
it is not the way i had imagined it all in my mind.
(so what am i)
what do i have but negativity
cuz i cant trust no one by the way everyone is looking at me
(nothing to lose)
nothing to gain im hollow and alone
and the fault is my own
and the fault is my own

[repeat chorus]

[Verse 3] (Chester)
I will never know myself until i do this on my own
cuz i will never feel anything else until my wounds are healed
i will never be anything til i break away from me
i will break away. ill find myself today

[repeat chorus]

The Dance

2007-06-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Throughout life friends come and go. It isn't the ones who are in our lives the longest but the ones who touch our lives the strongest are the ones we miss the most. I would like to take a moment to dedicate this song to someone who has been an influence in my life, and always there for me in times of need. Who knows what the future holds but for right now were walking miles apart.

The Dance
By: Garth Brooks

Looking back on the memory of
The dance we shared 'neath the stars above
For a moment all the world was right
How could I have known that you'd ever say goodbye

And now I'm glad I didn't know
The way it all would end, the way it all would go
Our lives are better left to chance
I could have missed the pain
But I'd have had to miss the dance

Holding you, I held everything
For a moment wasn't I a king
But if I'd only known how the king would fall
Hey who's to say? you know I might have changed it all

And now I'm glad I didn't know
The way it all would end the way it all would go
Our lives are better left to chance
I could have missed the pain
But I'd have had to miss the dance

Yes my life, it's better left to chance
I could have missed the pain
But I'd have had to miss the dance

Happy Bob Marley Day !!

2007-06-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

Heat Wave

2007-06-07T19:06:00.000-07:00

Everyone drink lots of water were going through a heat wave

This Is Our Job

2007-06-04T13:13:00.001-07:00

This Is Our Job

My name is Nick, this is Jennifer and Joe,
We work together in sync, and we are here to let you know,
That we work really hard, making tough collection calls,
Every single day, we're breaking down those AP walls.

We're always doing our best, to help out all those in need,
We sense the customer's distress, we pass the call over to Margareet,
She's so witty and so kind, and she's really good at lyin,
And that customer feels great, and Margarita saved the day.

(chorus)
This is our job, and we do it very well,
And if you don't agree, you can go right straight to
Heaven is a place, where I hope we all will be,
But until that time has come, we'll be right here are HWT

Now there's something you should know, so listen up really close,
This might be a good time, for you to start taking some notes,
Cuz if it weren't for us three, you'd have no salary
The deposit that we do, gives Elise the cash to pay you.

(chorus)

There are some other things, in this office that we do,
Jennifer's in IT, and I've written a report or two,
Joe he builds the desks, all the chairs and book shelves,
He can do the work, of 3 or 4 little elves.

Jennifer's organized, and well, Joe he's a good guy,
It's hard for me to talk about em, without the tears welling up inside,
But I hope this song has helpd, for you to put a name with a face,
But if you want to know a little more just go to their myspce.

(chorus)

Now it's time for to end, but let me mention one friend,
He's so sacrey yet he's kind, just depends on his state of mind,
So id he shuts his office door, just pretend your hearing's real poor,
And as dor us three, we love working at H W T !

Fun Filled BBQ

2007-06-03T14:47:00.001-07:00

Saturday was the first official cook out that I have attended this summer (well other then with family). I forgot that I had a my phone with me to take pictures during the actually cooking and eating. We ate wonderful ribs with a special sauce, steak, rice and red beans mmmmm sooo good and fried cheese. Yup you read that right FRIED CHEESE. It was so good. The food was all so wonderful too. It wasn't until desert when I remembered I had my phone/camera with me and I couldn't resist taking pictures. I have never had a chocolate fondue before.

This is a picture of the fondue pot after we put everything in and as it began to melt.

Paula and Kumen carefully watching over the chocolate to make sure that it wouldn't burn cuz honestly who wants to eat burnt chocolate?

We dipped some really good fruits and marshmallows into the chocolate. The Strawberries were so big and plump.

This is the chocolate after it started melting. Looks good. (well looks kinda interesting)

Jackie, Brian, and Christoper were the perfect hosts to a wonderful dinner/desert.

Here is the chocolate melted more. Almost ready

Here are the first things I dipped into the chocolate.

Doesn't it look tasty?

Jackie showing of her dipping skills

This is what happens then you get people around fruit and chocolate within 20 minutes.

The chocolate fully melted

And finally we are all done

Before He Cheats

2007-05-23T18:36:00.001-07:00

I think this is my new favorite song.

Music Video Codes

AND THE WINNER IS . . . .

2007-05-23T17:25:00.000-07:00

JORDIN SPARKS
We all knew she could do it.
CONGRATULATIONS from all of your fans.

z

American Idol

2007-05-23T17:12:00.000-07:00

So ho is going to win?

Is it Blake Lewis?

Or Jordin Sparks?

Hennypher Lopez

2007-05-23T17:04:00.001-07:00

Rachel Brice

2007-05-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

I love belly dancing and now with school done I look forward to being able to devote more time to practicing it

Graduation Party

2007-05-17T13:31:00.000-07:00

The pictures are finally here. The following few pictures are from my Graduation Party. Thank you to all who attended. I am sorry if we missed your picture :(

I never really realized just how long my hair was. Oh and that's Iris in the window she is so cute. Too bad I have cut my hair since then.

WOW Someone was hungry

YAY my mom was able to get out for the day and come celebrate with me and my friends

Alice and James they are talking to Baby, Alice's dog

Don't fall there Jenny

Jackie (she takes Belly Dancing with my sister and I. She is pretty dang good I might add). She is holding her son Christopher.

My mom, Alice and James relaxing and trying to stay warm in the cool air of the night

Who you looking at? Paul and Best Friend Ben and the head of Baby, Alice's Dog

Danni, Margarita and Talya enjoying a friendly game of Volleyball

Danni about to serve and get the winning point (well I don't' know for sure, but it sounds good)

Closing off the night with more volleyball

Yes we are that dedicated to play all the way through the night, and without the light. Plus were just that good

At the end of the evening we celebrated one of my belly dancing classmates sons' birthday. He was turning 3 on the day of my party. Check out his cake it is a bunch of cupcakes

New Phone

2007-05-16T07:13:00.000-07:00

Ok ok so I have had it for a while, but I keep having some friends from out of town asking what my new phone looks like. SOOO I decided to just post a picture of it for you all :) Now this is not exactly my phone I just found one online that was the same model as mine.

Remembering the 80s

2007-05-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

Lets take a moment to look back at the good old cartoons we all grew up to love and adore :)

Rainbow Bright

Heman

She-Ra

Smurfs

Snorks

And who can forget the Wuzzles

Great Falls

2007-05-07T17:22:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some pictures I took at Great Falls

I love this frist one cuz that's a picnic table

The J-Lo Tree

2007-04-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

Ok this just came through my e-mail. I couldn't help but sharing

Graduation

2007-04-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

I can finally say . . .

. . . I passed my class today :)

In Rememberence...

2007-04-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine of Virginia declared today a day of mourning and has called for a moment of silence at noon to honor the 32 victims in Monday’s massacre at Virginia Tech.

Flags around the country are flying at half staff.

Finishing School

2007-04-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to explain how excited I am that school is rapidly coming to an end. in less then 48 hours (pending I get good grades on my last three assignments) I will finally be all done school. I originally graduated with an Associates in Administrative Assisting in 2001 from the American Institute of Medical Dental Technology.

It wasn't until August of 2004 when I went back to school at AIU Online for my Associated in Business Administration. I quickly finished that in June of 2005. I didn't anticipate going back to school after that, as it was a mothers day present (my mom had no clue I was back in school. It was a big secret throughout the whole family).

However in October of 2005 I signed up for a Dual Bachelors program at AIU Online. Not only did I go back to school I was crazy enough to go back for 2 Bachelors.

After many months with straight studying no breaks I am finally done. YAY I just wanted to share my joy of finishing with everyone.

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee

2007-04-16T14:46:00.001-07:00

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first s he placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl.

Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see."

"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Di d I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or a m I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling.

Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.