a few words, clips, and phrases

Free Google Bikes for Everyone!

2011-10-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

What's so cool about Google? It seems like they get their hands into any and everything these days. Even two wheel cruisers. That's right folks. Google has some snazzy bikes! They may not be your top of the line road racers, but they are cute and colorful. That's got to qualify for something. These stylish little bikes come equipped with brake pedals, the original Google rainbow color scheme, and a basket that can cart around your MacBook, business portfolio, and pomeranian named Shnooks.

Actually, these bikes are used by employees to get around the Google campus in Mountain View, CA. The bikes are scattered throughout to cut down on employees having to drive their car to and from different buildings.

I was out there a few weekends ago for an education conference and got to take the ingenious wonders for a spin through the parking lot (about 15 or so little laps). Just way too fun to want to stop circling through. Hmm, maybe that's the same reaction gerbils have with the spinning wheel.

Google, what will you think of next?!

When You Need New Friends...Buy A Car.

2011-09-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Do you only get two phone calls a day? (One is from your mom and the other is an automated message from your bank.) Feel like you need to enliven your popularity status? Then, start looking for a new car. That's right folks, your social life will be rockin' and your phone will be ringing off the hook!

I spent a good amount of time looking for a new vehicle, while I was in Arizona for the week. After calling, visiting, and test driving at a handful of dealerships, I became the coolest girl on the block. Sales folks will do anything to try and flatter you in their sheer effort to wheel and deal. Overall, I was surprised with how friendly sales folks can be. It was an entertaining and exhausting experience, but mission accomplished and I got a new car. Here's a recap of my top five favorite sales tactics from the last week.

Top 5 Car Salesmen/women Tactics:

They guess your age: "How old are you? Are you old enough to test drive this car?" Unless I entered a time warp...yes. After telling the salesman my age, he was quite embarrassed. "Gee, there's no way you're that old. You look so young!"

They leave tender messages on your voicemail: "Tahlea, what up girl? This is Chris at such 'n such dealership and just calling to see when you plan to swing by and check out that CR-V."

They offer you a sneak peak at a luxury car: "Tahlea, just calling to see if you'd like to come in and test drive a new Lexus IS." Sure, if you make me a deal I can't refuse....and throw in a bike rack. Can't fit a bike in a Lexus IS...I don't think.

They share their life story from the most recent arguments with their wife to their tender love for canaries, then ask you to share something about yourself. Really they're searching for common ground, trying to break down the "I don't like talking to car salesmen" barrier, and build a trusted, friendly relationship...not gonna work while I'm shopping for a car.

Through the negotiating process, you will hear a familiar phrase..."let me talk to my manager"...over and over and over again. Ah, yes the car buying process will never change. Sitting, waiting, and hoping they'll stop their unsuccessful sales tactics and just give you the deal you want.

Well, after firmly explaining, I'm not buying this car tonight, I'm not an impulse buyer, give me the deal I want!, I got it. Yea! They even let me take the car home for the night, before I decided if I really wanted it (another sales tactic). So, what did I get? A Conventional Roundabout Vehicle (or Compact Recreational Vehicle)!

Goodbye Grand Prix, Hello CR-V!

I ended up going to Bryce Canyon again on my way back to SLC to rescue a friend from a weekend of cold weather camping. Gave me a great opportunity to take another picture with my updated ride....happy trails!

My Blondest Moment to Date

2011-09-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

I've had plenty of moments when my blonde roots come out, but this one tops them all! I decided to drive my car down to Arizona one more time. Shot struts, loose suspension, broken window motors, temperamental transmission, peeling paint, poor headlights, and more. I've needed to trade it in for several months.

So, I was just driving down US-89 when I noticed, I'm about to reach 100,000 miles! Wow! This calls for a celebration, or at least a memorable place to hit such an accomplishment for a 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix. As I was 12 miles from reaching this feat, I came upon the turn off to Bryce Canyon. I've never been over there and the sign said it was only 17 miles. I might as well take a slight detour to be on the outskirts of a cool location for this significant event.

I headed down the the course of beautiful red rocks and anxiously started counting, three more, two more, and one more mile!! Wait?! What happened? It didn't turn to 100,000 miles, but 99,100 miles. It turned out that I was looking at 99,099 not paying enough attention to realize that my car won't hit 100,000 miles for another 901 miles.

Well, it did get a great laugh out of me and I got to see some of Bryce Canyon. Instead of taking a picture at 100,000 miles, I took one at 99,111, just outside of Bryce Canyon, so I could mark this memorable moment:) Even so, I'm proud of my car. Especially, when I was taking a chance that it would make it all the way to Phoenix. It's still running! Way to go Grand Prix!

Happy Labor Day On Top of Utah's World!

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

It occurred to me last night that I've had some memorable Labor Day weekend's in recent years.

Denver Temple 2008

Three years ago, I visited dad in Denver. We went to the Denver Temple together, after dad had just received his temple recommend. That was a great experience:-)

Fishing at Aunt Carol's that Labor Day Weekend

Two years ago, I was in Connecticut with dad, when he had a mini-stroke, while attending his 40 year high school reunion. He ended up spending most of the weekend in the hospital. It was very mild, and really we think that his blood pressure just got too high, but it made for an eventful weekend. Especially, when he called me at 12:30 am and said he was in the hospital and had a stroke. Grateful everything was all okay:-)

Last year, I flew into Denver for the holiday weekend. As we were getting closer to Denver, the pilot informed the cabin that the brakes may not work when we land. Due to this malfunction, the flight attendants prepared us for a crash landing. With our arms crossed against the seat in front of us, and our heads against our arms, we got ready for an unexpected landing. It made for a very strange reality check, as I contemplated the possible outcomes of this situation. I prayed extremely hard and kept saying, it's not my time yet. I need to out live my parents! Fortunately, the brakes worked and we landed safely.

This year, I hiked Mt. Timpanogos (11,749 feet) in Utah. A 15 mile roundtrip hike, 15 people, done in 7.5 hours. A great way to enjoy a rigorous day of labor. Maybe next year I'll do something more Labor Day-ish, like attend a BBQ. A funny holiday to highlight, but here's to another Labor Day gone by!

Viva la Vida Utah

2011-09-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: The following entry was written on July 6, 2009 - Just never finished posting it. Yep, I get sidetracked in everything I do. If I do say so myself, it was a good entry. So I decided I'll go ahead and post it....over two years later.

Hiking Millcreek Canyon

Due to another long lull in blogging, much confusion has formed concerning my whereabouts. Though, I wish I could say I've been sailing the world, backpacking through Europe or snorkeling in the Mediterranean, I'm still hiding out in Salt Lake City, Utah for what has been 15 months and counting. That's right, I'm in the state I fully intended to leave for good after graduating from BYU.

What in the world am I doing in Utah?! As my good friend Sam eloquently put it, "I think it's strange, funny, and yet good, that you're still in Salt Lake!" So what has kept me here?! Maybe I'm finally settling down from drifting to and fro; maybe I found that the altitude keeps me looking like I'm 16 going on 17; or some unforseen force has left me landlocked. Not really. It has more to do with the beauty of the mountains, the easy-access to everything outdoors, and the amazing friends! I'm hooked! Well, at least for now. Winters can be dark and cold, but the excitement for snowboarding/skiing does seem to help. Only time will tell when I get ansy and the need for change bubbles inside again. My next location will need to involve an ocean and plenty of sunshine!

With that said, here is a brief look back on the last year living in SLC. The enjoyable side of Utah includes plenty of mountains for hiking, boarding, skiing, snowshoeing and mountain biking, causing me to revert back to childhood. One of these days I'll grow up and learn to enjoy knitting and read about ancient Greek philosophies, but 'til then I'll be fully enjoying nature and everything that keeps me moving:-)

Snowboarding Park City

Rock Climbing - Big Cottonwood

Rock Climbing Buddies

Snowboarding - The Canyons

Halloween 2008 - 80's rockin cousins & friends:-)

Cali vacation with UT friends!

Night hike to Spanish Fork Hot Springs w/UT friends

The Fabulous Katie Gavin - November 8, 2008

2008-11-23T13:44:00.000-08:00

I went home to Arizona the beginning of November for Katie Gavin's wedding. There's an interesting story behind our friendship, as it was made possible through the most unordinary circumstances.

About three years ago, my family was blessed to initially meet Katie's aunt, Karen Marchese. This meeting came when my brother was sick. Karen was his hospice nurse. She developed a very close relationship with my brother in the last few months of his life and was truly touched by his inner faith, strength, and peace. After my brother passed away, Karen sought after the innate peace that was part of my brother's character. She found this peace in our Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Two months after my brother passed away, she was baptized. Karen's light and inner peace touched her husband, Perry and niece, Katie. Perry and Katie were also baptized into the Church. Our friendship with the Marchese's and Katie has truly been a blessing. It is astounding how friends come into our lives. Never a mere coincidence.

After Katie joined the Church, per a friend's request, she started writing her friend's brother, Keenan, serving a mission in CA. Soon after he returned home, their friendship grew into something even greater. Needless to say, they were sealed in the Mesa Temple on November 8, 2008. Keenan and Katie are an amazing pair. I'm grateful that I had the chance to witness their sealing.

I'm so grateful for the Marchese's and their love, energy, and faith in the gospel. They are amazing examples to me, and I'm excited to see what great blessings will continue to unfold in their lives.

Sept. 12, 2008 - Happy Birthday TJ!

2008-10-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

Well, September has come and gone (and yes, I'm still in Utah), but here are a couple highlights from the month: Tj's Bday weekend in Provo & Labor Day Weekend in Denver (scroll down to the next post...but you probably knew that).

This post may seem cheesy to some, but I haven't written about my brother in a while and I was thinking about him a lot around his Bday. It is amazing how time flies. He passed away over three years ago. Yet I still have times of missing him, as I'm sure many of you do too. I don't mind those times. I don't ever want to stop missing him. These moments give me a chance to break away from silly distractions and ponder about more important things in life. I know he is still very much apart of our lives. Truly a remarkable blessing that we have angels in our midst. I see miracles great and small that are definitely not of my own doing. Just need to pay attention to the fact that we are never alone:-)

I happened to visit some friends in Provo during the weekend of Tj's Bday. Many good memories of my brother come from there. He loved BYU and Provo. Looking back, it was a blessing to live so close to each other and spend so much time together.

I hiked the Y on Saturday morning with my friend Jackie. Tj only hiked it once or twice, but whenever I hike it I remember his description of the Y. "It looks like moldy oatmeal". Ah yes, moldy oatmeal. Leave it to him to come up with such a lovely portrayal.

For those of you that don't have a clue what I'm talking about, there is a big white letter Y on a mountain just east of BYU. You take a gentle, vertical hike to get up to the Y. Some think it's strenuous, others consider it a walk in the park.

See! If I'm running, it's got to be an easy hike :-) Okay, so I usually walk, run, walk, run . . . walk, walk, walk.

Sunflowers are often a reminder of my brother's outgoing, positive, bright nature. They were in full bloom on the trail to the Y.

Jovina and I had lunch at Jason's Deli and ate strawberry shortcake. I remember Tj ordering strawberry shortcake at Jason's Deli when we were kids (Yes, the little deli was around then, at least in Denver). Tj's absolute favorite dessert would be a fruit or chocolate trifle, but "Jason" said he could only offer the shorter-cake stuff. (Sort of a funny picture. I was messing around with the colors and accidently saved it.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRAT! (That's brother in Russian. I always enjoyed calling him that. If you're wondering the Russian word for sister, it's sistra. Nothing related to a spoiled nature. Sisters are sweet afterall:-)

Labor Day Weekend - Denver

2008-09-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

D is for days of sunshine, dog walking da five dogs (duh), driving un petit Mercedes RLK Roadster, Denver temple with dad, dog hunting with Debbie (we lost Bailey), de Liz, de Faith, and de Sam. Last three were a stretch, but I did enjoy Labor Day weekend with family and friends.

Liz and her friend, Faith, spent the weekend at dad's just in time to update me on the popular tween favorites such as Hannah Montana, HS Musical 3, Disney Radio, Aeropostale, as well as fabulous dance moves and swimming techniques. Those girls are in the know. Liz looks taller than me. We were on a hill, but she really is almost my height. What are kids eating these days to get so tall! I'm a shrimp at 5'7".

Labor Day was spent down at Debbie's. Liz, Faith and I went swimming and drove around in Debbie's yellow Mercedes. Plus, we enjoyed the company of Barney, Bailey, Penny, TJ, and Emma. Yep, Barney is the "odd dog out" of the four dachsunds (a.k.a. weiner dogs). Debbie has three dachsunds, dad has Barney and Liz's dog Emma (another dachsund). It's really difficult to try and get five dogs in the same picture.

Barney & the other dogs would sit in front of the door awaiting dad and Debbie's return. We actually lost Bailey twice that day. The dog has a way of running off, but both times he actually turned up in Debbie's car (someone needs to tell Bailey that dogs don't drive).

Consumer Report: The Mercedes SLK Roadster brings speed and style to any given day. Comfortable bucket seats conform to your body making short or long drives enjoyable. Quick acceleration allows for a fast escape from "sitting at red-light onlookers" to "let's see what this baby can do test drivers" (oh, I guess that was me). Just kidding. I only take rental cars on a real test drive. I was very cautious.

Arizona Living - What have I been doing?

2008-07-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

What have I been doing in Arizona? Dodging cactus, tripping over tumbleweeds, and scavenging for rattlesnakes? Umm....No. It is time to review some great activities truly found in the valley of the sun. Especially now that I'm working and living in SLC for a few months (I suffer from vagabond syndrome - must drift from one location to the next).

For the most part work has consisted of mktg, writing, and research for different businesses. Nice diversity. On the side, I was involved with promotional marketing. It's great to get paid to attend the Superbowl NFL Experience, American Idol concert, some Donald Trump real estate convention, and various community banquets. In addition, I volunteered at sporting events like the PF Chang's Rock n' Roll Marathon. Basically when you live in Phoenix, you get involved! A lot goes on in this city. Many cool things to do!

Here are just a few things I've done while living in AZ (events with photos).

My last promo event was for State Farm insurance at the American Idol concert. Just pull people in to play an American Idol game and win prizes. Plus, I got to watch the concert. I actually got into American Idol more than usual this year. In my opinion, the best performers that night were David Cook (of course), Kristy Lee Cook (surprisingly), and David Archuleta (another of course).

I joined my mom and uncle for a skin care coalition at the Botanical Gardens. There was a butterfly exhibit at the time. Butterflies flying around my head. Like seeing stars!
I think this photo is funny. Mom and me talking about products. Uncle Bill wondering "What do I want for lunch . . . turkey avocado or grilled portabello? Or maybe he's just going . . . duh?

Away from work & promos, there's much to do with friends like . . .

Attend a Gin Blossoms benefit concert: the band dipped out Cold Stone ice cream, signed pictures, and posed for photo ops after the show.

Try pasucci (ice cream pizza)

Visit fabulous friends that come to town (Nea, Cole & Mason)

Enjoy the Scottsdale and Tempe nightlife with more awesome friends! Plenty of places for fine dining and shopping. Moderate temps (minus the summer) make AZ nightlife year round. (Friends include Huier, Kristina, Lisa, Maria, and Lyndsey) We joined Huier for a goodbye dinner before she moved home to Taiwan.

Tube the Salt River in 116 degree temps (Heat is relative). Funny expression on the river. Not sure what I was trying to do, but hilarious photo op:-)

Ah yes . . . Arizona is a good place to live, work, and play. Or if you're up for a visit, I can help you find the inside track on the great things locals like to do:-)

Desert Life - In my own frontyard

2008-06-08T15:49:00.000-07:00

You may think the only elements of desert living are cactus, dirt, and tumbleweeds. Alas . . . it is surprising to see what the desert truly has to offer, even what can be planted in your own yard.

Mom and me in front of our grapefruit tree planted Sept. 12, 2005 (TJ's Bday), as a gift from a dear friend, It's called the "TJ" tree. The tallest, fastest growing tree in the backyard - just like my brother.

Thanks to Steve, my stepdad, the yard has some of the fanciest foliage you will see in our Scottsdale neighborhood. (Here's the plug-in for his Naturally Green Soil Treatment - the mystery product he sells that makes your garden grow better then the Jones's and decreases water usage - contact Exhibit A shown below for more info).

Exhibit A: Mr. Paul Bunyan himself - a.k.a. Steve - neighborhood house watcher, tree chopper, gardener, and new found sod layer. The neighbors love what he's done to the neighborhood just by redoing our frontyard:-)

Yes, the frontyard was classified as a barren wasteland, with fancy flowers and shrubs for over a year - for which Exhibit A could be blamed or praised. Nothing but dirt. No sign of desert rocks, grass, weeds, or even lawn furniture (refer to Exhibit B below).

Exhibit B: Fancy looking dirt:-)

Exhibit C: Here are some of the distractions planted throughout the year to defer the neighbors and onlookers from the realization that the frontyard is just brown dirt.
These petunias surely became the talk of the neighborhood! Joggers and dog walkers alike loved them, including the dogs;-)

Bring Hawaii to the desert!
Who knew tropical flowers flourish in Arizona. Red hibiscus and a purple orchid tree brought more awe and bewilderment as onlookers stared in disbelief!

Exhibit D: Sod Saturday finally arrived. 5am - I meandered out at 6:30am - let the guys do the work. The barren wasteland came to an end. Soon people will start using the frontyard for picnics; slip n' slides; stop, drop, and roll demos; and king of the hill. Finally, we can say GO GREEN!

Hawaii (Oahu) - April 14 - 22, 2008

2008-05-16T06:50:00.000-07:00

Another long lull in blog writing must mean I have fabulous things to say about my vacation to Hawaii. Well, I do. It was everything I hoped for and so much more . . . why wouldn't it be? It's paradise!

My friends and I combined over 500 pictures, which would be difficult to include in this blog. I decided it was best to link 98 of those photos to my blog, instead of posting them in here. Photos include fabulous commentary from yours truly. http://picasaweb.google.com/tahleaj/Hawaii?authkey=yoOmocXyW_4

Flight Cancellation

After graduating from BYUH six years ago, a reunion was a necessity. Yet, this reunion almost didn't happen. A week before we were flying to Hawaii, ATA (our flight carrier) went bankrupt and immediately canceled all flights. What chaos! They left people stranded in Hawaii (like that's a bad thing), while others scrambled for last minute flights.

Fortunately, we received a full refund, but ticket prices began to soar. Our cheap $295 tickets were quickly becoming $1000. Oh, it seemed hopeless:-( Yet, I have great faith that remarkable blessings can come in times of desperation. Like getting to Hawaii of course!! A few days later, my dad came across a very reasonably priced ticket. It was the last seat available (according to travelocity). The downside was that I would have to spend 8 days, instead of 5 days in Hawaii (Bummer).

A bright note to my trip was running into my old Bishop from BYUH in my layover city - SLC. Of all places to run into someone, it would be the airport. Yes, my trip down memory lane was just beginning:-)

4 nights in Honolulu

The first 4 days were spent in Honolulu with my friends Jackie, Jen, Jon, and Kristen (I know a lot of J' people - good people:-) We did the wonderful touristy things including Pearl Harbor and the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet. Bring good walking shoes, cash, sunblock and patience a' plenty (Lines can get long at Pearl Harbor. Plus, you're in Hawaii - everything's slow). *Note on the Swap Meet - Buy everything here! Don't give into the lil' gift shops in Waikiki. You'll find greater selection and pricing at the Swap Meet (only open Wed. and Sat.)

Don't miss another important spot on the map - the Polynesian Cultural Center. Right next to BYUH and employed by BYUH students. The center highlight six polynesian cultures through dance, shows, food, etc. Highlights include village performances and the exceptional night show!

Learn to greet people in six different languages: Bula (Fijian), Aloha (Hawaiian), Talofa (Samoan), Kia Ora (Aotearoa), Iaorana (Tahitian), Malo e Lelei (Tongan). Additional local Hawaiin Pidgin phrasing would say "Was' up, brah?" or "Whaddsdascoops?!"

Every Hawaiian vacation needs a local language lesson to blend in with the surfers! Ha! Or just to get some good laughs at the attempt. A little surf lingo: "Da kine wave, brah. Jus carve up or slam the lid, or be pitched like there no tomorrow!"

Now that your language lesson is complete, you're ready to explore the north shore! Head to Sunset Beach, view Pipeline, snorkel at Shark's Cove, swim at Waimea Bay, then head to Haliewa to enjoy the popular Matsumoto's (shaved ice) experience.

Pineapple addicts everywhere flock to the Dole Plantation to savor the great flavor, view baby pineapple, and get lost in the pineapple maze.

4 Nights in Ka'a'ava

Due to my longer then expected stay on Oahu (again, woe is me), I needed a place to stay. My amazing friend, Shana, hooked me up with a great guest house in Ka'a'ava where some of her family lives. Amazing people and amazing abode that overlooked the ocean. Perfect way to enjoy the second-half of my vacation.

My quality, alone time was spent hiking Diamond Head, wandering different beaches, visiting the Laie Temple, and spending quality time at BYUH. I even wandered down to the Kokua Festival put on by Jack Johnson - just didn't get to see Jack.

Traveling alone gave me the opportunity to interact more with other tourists and locals. I forgot how sincere and kind people can be in Hawaii. Of course, not everyone's that way - like the rental car lady that tried to get this haole girl lost when I asked for directions (good thing i knew she was wrong). Or the short-tempered, grumbly clerks at a few stores in Haliewa. Yet, those little experiences can't compete with the warm aloha spirit many locals carry with them.

Overall, an amazing experience that leaves me longing for more time (and money) to go back. Another six years would be way too long. I need an annual trip (at the very least). Or if anyone needs a tour guide, I suppose I'd be willing to sacrifice the time and energy to go with you. Fo' Real! Good excuse to go back:-)

March Birthday Celebrations

2008-03-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

I suppose there are no excuses concerning my long duration of absent blog writing. The lamest of all being - I’ve been busy, side-tracked, and try to spend as little time in front of the computer, when it’s not related to work.

Work? I guess I should clarify what in the world I’ve been doing the last seven months. After finishing my M.A. in August, I started hunting for that “big job in the sky”. I was fortunate to have many opportunities come my way, but nothing completely fell into place or felt quite right. To which I realized, hmm...I’ve never liked being chained to a desk doing monotonous daily tasks; my oddly creative, project-oriented, multi-tasking, analytical mind wants freedom to explore! So, I became a self-designated consultant. I primarily work for three companies, but have occasional side projects going on too. If you, or someone you know, is in dire need of copywriting/writing/editing/marketing assistance – just let me know*(view disclaimer to the right). I’ve done it all!

MARCH BIRTHDAY MADNESS - March 14 - 16, 2008

Now that I’ve caught up, on to “March Madness”! Yes, college basketball seems to be everywhere, but more importantly I’m referring to “March Birthday Madness”. Yeah! This year was no different. I was fortunate to be in SLC the weekend before my birthday for a Bio-Identical Hormone Conference (sounds really boring, huh?). Actually, I’m a health nerd, so I loved it. MedQuest, one of the lovely companies I work for, asked me to write some articles for journals/magazines on this topic. So, this conference provided an excellent background for my work.

I had a little time to celebrate with some March Birthday friends (Sam and Jovina). I wish I could have seen all my Utah friends and apologize to those I missed – being car-less and only in SLC for a two-day conference made it difficult to get around. I love all my Utah friends:-)

Sam had a surprise party Friday night! I'm glad it fell on the same night I flew in. I wouldn't want to miss it! Unfortunately, my short-sighted brain neglected to take any pictures. So, here is a picture from last years Birthday celebrations. We haven't aged a bit!

Of course, no Birthday celebration is complete with a little snow and sushi! Saturday night Jovina, Jasen and I celebrated Birthdays at Takashi. Food Critique: A modern-chic sushi restaurant tucked away on Market Street. Chef Takashi brings a Peruvian-style to the kitchen offering an eclectic variety of sushi rolls:-)

Sunday I celebrated with old roomies and friends. The delicious food continued on with wraps, salads, and angel food cake/strawberries for dessert. Right on! Magnifico! Qui a bon gout! Fantastico! (yummy!) Thanks to my fabulous roomies and friends.

Surprise Birthday Celebration! – March 17, 2008

On my return home to Arizona, I should have anticipated what was to come. I haven’t been home for my Birthday in 10 years, so my mom seized upon the moment. In order to distract me, I spent my Bday-eve with my grandma and Uncle (lunch and hybrid car browsing– what else could throw a girl off?).

Later that evening, I returned home to a houseful of guests and signs exclaiming Happy Birthday and Congratulations! My dear mother, threw a surprise Happy Birthday/Your Diploma Finally came in the Mail Party! She invited close family friends to enjoy the celebration. I’ll just say I was the youngest person in attendance:-) I loved it! It was so creative!

Finally Here! – March 18, 2008

My actual Birthday was pretty low key. Dinner with mom and Steve at Havana Café! Fun Cuban restaurant, yummy food. Mom and I posed in front of a rainforest mural, not realizing she was standing under some pink flower. She looks like a pink princess! It was hilarious! Steve said he didn’t notice she was standing there, but I think he was looking for a laugh. All in all it was a fabulous Bday 2008! Looking Ahead:Next month travel blog-log will feature the Hawaiian tropics, as I travel to Oahu.

Utah - Sam & Steve's Wedding Aug. 14 - Aug. 19, 2007

2007-08-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I made my travel rounds and landed back in Utah just in time to move out of my apartment and make it to Sam's wedding. Good thing I made it to her wedding, since as a bridesmaid, I was an instrumental part of the wedding party:-) It was great to have Mom & Steve and Dad & Debbie all there to meet Steve. They hadn't given Sam the ultimate seal of approval, but they have now. I'm so grateful for the way Sam came into our lives through my brother, and the way she loved TJ during great challenges was amazing. I know TJ certainly gives his seal of approval too.

It's been a whirlwind of a summer as I traveled much, completed my thesis, moved out of Utah, got lost in D.C. and Palo Alto, CA and attended weddings for some of my most favorite people. Every summer should be so eventful! I'm slightly dazed believing I'm supposed to be heading back to BYU, finishing a thesis or something. But I do recognize it's time to move on to the next big adventure that awaits. Whatever, whenever, wherever, whomever it may be:-)

Washington DC - Aug. 7 - Aug. 12, 2007

2007-08-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

Who knew! There's a place where singles are appreciated so much that they have their own lane on the freeway! The yellow signs say "Single Lane Ahead". D.C. is surely the place to be:-)

I went out for a Communications Conference to present a paper, and mom joined me to celebrate her Bday on Aug. 10th. Though D.C. is a popular tourist attraction, I don't know how many people can say they enjoy the city in August during humid, 100 degree weather. Can't say I enjoyed it, but it wasn't unbearable. Besides, my hair is always thick and luscious in humidity:-)

Lessons learned from this trip: I recommend the popular tourist spots, but don't try to see it all in one trip. You miss out on a lot if you're rushing from one place to the next. Even the the White House (couldn't find parking) and D.C. Temple (missed the street, and heading out to Gettysburg) were drive-bys. In case there is any question, the Pentagon does not give tours, let alone let you enter the parking lot. My mom used to go all the time when she was young, but different time period and her dad worked at the Pentagon.

I also recommend the Newseum that will be opening soon. We had a sneak peek as AEJMC delegates to see this gigantic media museum. Way cool! Inspired me to rent Goodnight and Goodluck about Edward R. Murrow (still haven't seen it). The Newseum will definitely be on my list next time I'm in D.C.

Moral of the Story: When in D.C., in mid-August, view the sites at night, especially the National Mall (all the memorials). It's open until 11:45 pm. Gorgeous city lights as we walked around Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, etc until 11:30pm. In hindsight, probably not the safest idea, so don't walk around without tons of people. Or just jump in with a random tour group wandering along the path.

Connecticut - July 25 - Aug. 1, 2007

2007-08-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a summer vacation on the East Coast. Of course, a good vacation requires some outdoor chores and a house to paint. My dad and I were busily engaged in yardwork, painting the house, and fighting off hornets (at least the mosquitos stayed at bay). Great way to get a classic tan. The sun isn't as strong out there, so I always get a nice deep tan. It's kinda strange, but I turn a different color. Like Purple! Just kidding.

I enjoyed the fresh berries and apples from the yard and veggies from the farmer's market. Ah, that is the way to live. Seafood, veggie gardens and all the fruit you'll ever need to survive. Though we stayed in Westport, CT most of the time; we also went out to Pawcatuck, CT (borders RI) to visit my Aunt Helen's house built in the 1600's, and housed by a sea captain. What a tale it must tell.

We ventured out to Mystic, CT for the annual 24hr reading marathon of Herman Mellville's classic, Moby Dick. I've never read it, but as Herman Mellville recited the first chapter by memory (ok, maybe just a guy pretending to be Herman), I was inspired to get my own copy. Such passion for the sea is expressed in the first chapter, and since I was a fish in another life:-) I knew this is a must read.

Vacation is not complete without boating and fishing (at least pretending) in the Atlantic! I actually caught a Bass, while dad and Aunt Helen caught dog fish (they bark at you, funny looking creatures). No fish were harmed during our boating experience; we threw them back. My dad and I also swam from CT to RI! Sounds catastrophic, huh? Okay, I think it was really hundreds of yards to swim between the two states.

This is a highly recommended vacation destination, but I'm partially bias to the permeating childhood memories that pop up as I visit family on the east coast.

Additional note on Cali trip - July 21, 2007

2007-08-05T21:09:00.000-07:00

An additional note to my Cali trip may seem cheesy, but is a bittersweet memory. It was wonderful to see my brother's best friend get married in the temple. Though it was not planned, Brian married Keri on July 20th, two years to the last day he saw TJ on this earth. My brother passed away at 5am on July 21, 2007. As he went into a coma on July 20th, friends and family gathered to sing hymns, share scriptures and say goodbye for now. From one best friend to a new best friend, I think TJ had a helping hand in bringing Brian & Keri together.

Northern California - July 20, 2007

2007-08-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

After flying home to Phx (this time it was planned), I flew off to San Jose a day later for Brian & Keri's wedding. Always love trips to CA! My mom and I toured Stanford and got lost in Palo Alto. Then we headed to Sacramento (new travel territory) for the wedding. After both Steve's cut out of the trip (Mom and Samantha's), it was just the girls. Great chance to get some quality girly time in.

Beautiful temple in Sacramento, as it was virtually empty. Awesome time with the Price's and Keri's family. One of the cutest couples ever! Brian did well. Keri and him are great together.

CONSUMER REPORT: Hyundai Sonata - Man, this car can get up and go! 0 to 60 in .02 seconds or something. Unfortunately, as I learned the hard way, it doesn't gracefully come to a halt. I was balancing two jamba juice smoothies when my mom braked to catch a turn we ended up missing. During this stunt, one smoothie flew through the air with the greatest of ease to land on my clothes and the floor in front of me. I was a gummy bear for the rest of the day, as I stuck to everything or everything stuck to me. MORAL OF THE STORY: when renting a Sonata - use cupholders.

Back to Denver - July 2007

2007-07-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

I ventured back to Denver right after the 4th. I was able to spend more great time with my dad and visit the Hobbs up in Evergreen, while Carrie was getting ready to enter the MTC for the CA-San Diego mission. Love visiting with those close friends. It's always nice to go back to your roots, but slightly eerie to reminisce on the years gone by as I spent 12 years in that 8,000 ft. Mountain town (living at such an elevation probably explains a lot of my random behaviors:-)

The slight drama (not really dramatic) came with my flight back to SLC. I went to the airport on Tuesday only to discover that my flight left Wednesday. Random. I've never done that before. Scheduled a ticket for the wrong day. So I go back Wednesday at 8:30 am (dad had a client in town and meeting) for a 1 pm flight only to find out my flight is cancelled due to technical dificulties. Thanks to the meticulous techs that make our traveling experience a complete possibility. Don't want to fly on a broken plane.

So the first leg of my journey detoured to Phx (no direct flights). Got into Phx at 4 pm to be delayed for two hours because of a missing plane somewhere in the sky. I arrived in SLC at 8:30 pm. 12 hour travel day. The 8 hr drive was probably a better choice.

MORAL OF THE STORY: Always double-check your flight dates before purchasing. Be patient and stay busy by going through every terminal, every store, and explaining airport security to confused travelers (sealed bottled water is still not allowed through security). If you end up at the airport for several hours participate in non-traditional exercise (walk everywhere, lift your bag 100 times with each arm, do calf raises, stretch and refrain from sitting). Specifically, if you're trapped at DIA you can practice balance on the train between terminals. Don't hold on to the rails, just balance back and forth with your legs slightly bent. For beginners, stand close to a pole or rail to avoid flying into another tram traveler. May get some strange looks, but it's so much fun.

Monticello & Muley Point - July 2007

2007-07-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

What better way to start July then with a weekend trip to Monticello! Though this location may be unlisted in a typical travel guide, it has a great small town atmosphere (because it is a small town) and even it's very own LDS Temple (it's pretty small too). It was great to get out of 100 degree Provo weather and settle with 80 degree temps.

We visited Liz's (my roommate) aunt and uncle. So much fun! Adorable kids. They are the family on the move, as they're involved with everything. That's totally how it should be and I hope to be with my own kids. They took us down to Muley Point somewhere between Bluff and Mexican Hat. Their family minivan turned into a Hummer as we climbed our way to the point. We hiked around the side of the point to view some Anasazi petraglyphs. These amazing pictures depict the birth of Christ. It was so gorgeous and enjoyable to scale the side of 1000 foot cliff.

CONSUMER REPORT: Family minivan (if I remember it was a Toyota Sienna). Now there's a car I recommend. Who knew a minivan could scale rocks and major ditches and venture up the road less traveled.

Happy Father's Day - June 2007

2007-07-15T22:36:00.000-07:00

June travel continued on to Denver to spend time with my dad and Elizabeth. I got to be a kid again as we watched Hannah Montana (Liz's fav), went to Waterworld, Primary and made Father's Day cards and kids crafts. I also met Dad's girlfriend Debbie, adorable spunky lady, who really favors the color yellow and has a tortoise named Bam-Bam.

Lake Tahoe - June 2007

2007-07-15T22:22:00.000-07:00

My summer travel started with a great weekend trip to Tahoe with my roomies. We were totally livin' it up at an exclusive ski lodge in Squaw Valley (1960 Olympic venue) and traveling around in a Jeep Commander. We were fortunate to go before the horrible fires. It's absolutely gorgeous there. Reminds me of Colorado.

CONSUMER REPORT: buyer beware:-) the Jeep Commander is very stylish, but not the best choice for the sight-seeing bunch sitting in the backseat. Passengers sit two feet higher than the windows having to slouch down to peer out. The DVD player is a nice touch, but the backseat-middle passenger is stuck viewing the onscreen images cross-eyed and is really at a loss to view anything outside of the car when this is down.

For clarification, my roommate's brother came too. BYU hasn't changed their standards to co-ed habitations:-) It was an awesome trip for the some rest and relaxation, plus few crowds. I highly recommend this destination spot on any traveler's list. Plan on going at this time if you're crowd-aphobic. It was in between seasons, so absolutely dead.