Life in Utah

The Countdown is on

2011-04-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Well I guess with 5 weeks and two days to go there is nothing left to do but countdown until the big day.
Ansley's Birthday
Oh and probably finish washing her first three months of clothes.

2 Week Countdown

2011-03-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

I am so excited in two weeks, two of my best friends from Vegas are coming up to Salt Lake City for my baby shower. Which means this weekend I have to get the baby room more complete than it is now.

I am so excited to see Becca and Crystal for some reason 3.5 months doesn't seem that long when you aren't preggo. But when your weekends aren't that exciting.. then you look forward to things like this. I hope this isn't a sign of things to come because next season I am totally planning on hitting the slopes. I miss skiing so much. I also miss running but I can't even thing about that right now because I couldn't run before i got pregnant because i ripped my calf muscle in two so I have been out of the running game for almost 10 months. I am hoping to get back in action this summer... when it's nice and hot. hee hee!!

Life is Crazy

2011-03-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

So life has been changing around our house for the better. We are moving on from furbabies to add a human baby to our pack.

Ansley Rebecca is due in May and she is already has a few nicknames from my father.. who we call Gramps because he put it in an email. One day she is Sweet Pea and the next she is a Jelly Bean.

However, she is can come at any time now and her room is almost complete.

Her friends are waiting!!

Other than that things have been pretty quiet on the home front. We are preparing.... well really just waiting to become parents to our 2 legged baby and trying our best to make sure we have what we need.

In 2 weeks 2 of my best friends are coming into town for a baby shower and some girl time so that should be lots of fun. I am sure Ansley will rack up with some more crazy gifts. I am going to try to do a lot better about updating my blog. I have been a slacker for a while. Finding time between working out and work is getting hard because I usually crash and burn before 10pm.

Hello

2010-09-24T14:54:00.001-07:00

I realized i haven't posted in a while... because Brittainy wanted to see my blog. So Hello Brittainy.

My first Quilt

2010-03-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

After being inspired by my friend who makes beautiful quilts. I have taken on my very first quilting project. And while most people said.. you should start with a throw. I went big and started with a queen size quilt.

My inspiration, Natalia from Piece N Quilt and her fab Simply Authentic Quilt. While I know mine won't be as good... since her's was the original.... here is a peak at how far I have come.

Team in Training Bake Sale

2010-03-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends-

Since the end of November I have been on a journey to complete a half marathon. I decided to do it with the group Team in Training, they are part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, because they provide me with coaches who tell me what to do.

So I am pushing myself even farther and I am running 2 half marathons in one month. All in the name of Team in Training.

Now I am in the home stretch, I have 650 dollars left to raise by race day. I have been saving my pennies and now I am holding a Bakeless Bake Sale.

Many a time I’ve heard you say, “I would rather give a dollar than bake today!” And so, I’m asking you to help, more or less, to make my Bakeless Bake Sale a big success. Just donate the money that it would take to bake a loaf of bread or a beautiful cake. Or, donate the money it costs to buy a dozen rolls or even a pie!

100% of the proceeds will goto the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, you know!

Your support will aid doctors and researchers alike to battle cancer, find cures, and win the fight!

Please mark the items you would like to “purchase” then click on my link and enter your total on my website.

Qty __ Cupcakes: 2 for $1.00
Qty____1 doz. Mini Cupcakes: $3.00
Qty __ Chocolate Chip Cookies: 5 for $1.00
Qty____3 doz. Sugar Cookies: $6.00
Qty____1 doz. Brownies: $4.00
Qty.____3 doz. Brownies: $8.00
Qty.____Dutch Apple Pie $5.00
Qty____3 Pecan Pies: $10.00
Qty.____Strawberry Cheesecake $7.00
Qty____5 Loaves of Bread: $15.00
Qty____Red Velvet Cake $20.00
Qty____ Kentucky Derby Pie $25,00

You may also make a credit card donation directly to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by visiting:
http://pages.teamintraining.org/ut/ogden10/yes

Dear Family and Friends-

2010-03-15T12:31:00.001-07:00

Many a time I’ve heard you say, “I would rather give a dollar than bake today!” And so, I’m asking you to help, more or less, to make my Bakeless Bake Sale a big success. Just donate the money that it would take to bake a loaf of bread or a beautiful cake. Or, donate the money it costs to buy a dozen rolls or even a pie!

100% of the proceeds will goto the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, you know!

Your support will aid doctors and researchers alike to battle cancer, find cures, and win the fight!

Please mark the items you would like to “purchase” then mail this stub along with a check (made payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) to:

Sarah Tompkins

536 Stockbridge Circle

North Salt Lake, Utah 84054

Qty __ Cupcakes: 2 for $1.00	Qty____1 doz. Mini Cupcakes: $3.00
Qty __ Chocolate Chip Cookies: 5 for $1.00	Qty____3 doz. Sugar Cookies: $6.00
Qty____1 doz. Brownies: $4.00	Qty.____3 doz. Brownies: $8.00
Qty.____Dutch Apple Pie $5.00	Qty____3 Pecan Pies: $10.00
Qty.____Strawberry Cheesecake $7.00	Qty____5 Loaves of Bread: $15.00
Qty____Red Velvet Cake $20.00	Qty____ Kentucky Derby Pie $25,00

You may also make a credit card donation directly to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by visiting:
http://pages.teamintraining.org/ut/ogden10/yes

Dear God, it's me Sarah

2010-01-28T12:46:00.000-08:00

I will admit I don't talk to you as much as I should. I find a little time every night but more and more it probably isn't enough.
So please listen and know that I want everything to be ok, as cryptic as it may be... I just need everything to be ok.

2009 in Review

2010-01-04T07:50:00.000-08:00

Well reading my friend Patrick O'Brien's blog post inspired me to write a similar one. (His was inspired by one of his friends)

2009 has been a year of challenges and joys and I am hoping that 2010 is full of even more joys than challenges.

In 2009:
-We started off the year playing Wii with our friends Jen and Jason, We ended it playing Wii with our Kickball friends.
-We skied for most of the winter at Snowbasin
-We planned our first real vacation for September since our friends wedding in Hawaii
-I went to visit the folks in WV and see their new condo(April)
-I only visited Las Vegas 5 times this year! I am hoping to make it more in 2010.
-I went to Best Friends Animal Society in July and learned that I could never be a vegetarian! I also got to witness first hand the great things they do.
-Went to Vegas for my friends bachelorette party. (August)
-Went on a Mexican Cruise and finally got to swim with the dolphins. (Sept)
-Went on the vacation of a lifetime with my mom to Paris and Geneva. (Oct)
-Got to see an old friend on the streets of Paris, I am not sure that life could have gotten even better. I look forward to continuing our new friendship.(Oct)
-Met family in Geneva and learned that yes life is probably better without sulfates in wine.
-Learned that Rob was going to have neck surgery while in Paris.
-Had to back out of the LV Half Marathon because of Rob's surgery.
-Rob pulled through surgery and is still healing despite my horrible nursing skills.(Nov)
-Went to Las Vegas(shocker) and celebrated my friends 30th birthday!! (Nov)
-One of my best friends had her first baby, Kaden. Such a cutie! (Dec)
-Made Rob take advantage of a maxed out yearly out of pocket max! (Dec)
-Celebrated Christmas at home and enjoyed the fact that we both successfully surprised each other.
-Committed to training and running a half marathon! I hope you all will help me reach my goal and get there. (Dec)
-Ended the new year by watching my Vols get trampled by VPI! But it's ok because I think they have great potential in 2010.

For 2010:
-I am hoping good karma pays off!
-Sticks to our new budget.
-Get to enjoy more family vacations with our extended family.
-I run my Vancouver Half marathon and hopefully the LV Marathon.

I'll be Home for Christmas...

2009-12-23T08:08:00.000-08:00

if only in my dreams. Well, every year I hope that this will be the year that we pack it up and head to South Carolina. But alias the year comes and goes and we are still here.

But it is ok because it looks like Santa thought we were really good this year. The tree is full underneath and I haven't even put Rob's presents under the tree. EEKKK!

I hope that everyone has a Merry Christmas and of course celebrated a great Hanukkah.

I look forward to 2010 when I think a lot of great things will be happening at home and around the country! Oh and of course in Canada when I run the Vancouver Marathon! Whoop, don't forget to help me get there if you can spare a few dollars.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

It's Snowing

2009-12-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to report that Norad is bringing more than Jason home to Jen. He brought in snow as well. Now I have to go home and shovel the driveway, that is one of the downfalls of your husband having back surgery!

It happens to all of us!

2009-12-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

I truly believe that at some point during the winter we all get the winter blues. The sun doesn't come up until after I get to work and it is set by the time I get home. Boo! This year is harder because Mother Nature is being quite selfish with her snow. So bring it on... I am still waiting for my massive snowstorm! Yes I want one!!

However, there are things that happen in our lives where we say... It feels like everyone is moving on and I am staying in the same place. My friend has said to me however, this week has hit me harder than most living in Salt Lake. No family for Thanksgiving and one of my best friends had a baby and I won't be able to see him for a while. Just no plans to head down to Vegas anytime soon.

I am trying to keep a positive outlook on this year... so no one get in my way... because I have my happy pants (couldn't resist saying that) on I am not letting the winter blues take over!!

We interrupt this run..

2009-12-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Well we can start with the boring stuff.... I have run about 4.5 miles so far this week. Hopefully training tonight will give me the cross training and I can log another three miles. I am getting there people, I may not be the fastest but I am definitely going to make it.

In other news one of my dear friends is about to pop. Tomorrow she goes in to have her little baby boy. I have a lot of friends with little boys and now I am wondering if any of my friends will ever have girls. At least my cousins have that one covered.

Well, I had to interrupt the running to show my excitement that Kaden is coming and of course I will have my cell phone, facebook, blogs, etc up at all times so that I can see pictures of the little squirt! YEAH

Gimmie 10

2009-11-30T15:02:00.001-08:00

Gimmie 10
10 minutes. 10 Dollars. 10 Friends.
As you know (or you do now!) I am raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through the Team in Training marathon program. I am running the BMO Vancouver International Marathon. Here is all I am asking you to do: Go to my website and donate $10! That's right, I am only asking for $10!
http://pages.teamintraining.org/dm/vancouvr10/stompkins

Top 10 Reasons to donate $10!
10. It's a chance to save a life, it's a chance to make a difference.
9. It's a TAX-DEDUCTIBLE donation!
8. Leukemia is the #1 killer of children.
7. $25 pays for a patient's chemotherapy prescription co-pay.
6. $50 will register one person to become a bone marrow donor.
5. $75 provides bone marrow typing for a potential donor.
4. $100 provides patient travel costs to the cancer center.
3. $500 provides aid to a patient for ONE YEAR.
2. $1000 will help the LLS fund a researcher to find a cure.
1. Today, through the work of the society and your donations,
712,000 Americans that would have undoubtedly died – are *SURVIVING.*
Don't forget that your donation is NOT limited to $10. Give what you think you can. I promise you it will change some one's life!
Please forward this e-mail to 10 more people that might also like to donate to a great cause. Thank you in advance!
-Sarah Tompkins
http://pages.teamintraining.org/dm/vancouvr10/stompkins

Running Week 1

2009-11-30T07:49:00.000-08:00

This was my first week training with our Team in Training Group, it was so much fun...however, when the wind hit my face on Saturday morning at the capital, ouch! I think it may have taken the breath out of me. However, I finished and it felt really good.

I also completed a 5k on Thanksgiving! Yeepie my time was 38:36. I will take it for just getting back into running.

And of course there is another reason to celebrate this morning.. I have made it to 7% of my goal. YEEPIE! Now hopefully I can get a little farther. Anyone have any suggestions for raising money?

Thanks
Sarah

Getting myself into a whole lot of fun!

2009-11-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

It's all going to be ok! Well, at least I hope it is.

For a more than a year I have been watching the motivation of Ms. Danie D and getting in shape to run in the Nike Woman's Marathon. She rocked it and made the whole thing look so easy! So with her motivation I have joined Team in Training in hopes of running the Vancouver half marathon.

So I signed my check and now it is time o start training and raising money! We will see how it all goes! And I am hoping that I can rock it like Danie did!

Here are some other important people to mention, Richie from X96 is going to run the Vancouver Marathon and Mr Austin Shamy is my little motivation!

Surgery Stinks

2009-11-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

So early friday morning I am getting up to take Rob to have surgery. He is having spinal fusion. I think it is much more stressful for me then him.

However, everyone is asking am i freaked out about the bill.
My answer is easily no.. you know why... I have health insurance and the max we can pay is 1k. That's all that is left for his yearly deductible. That is the only thing that I am not stressed about.

However the surgery is stressing me out. This week has been creeping along and I really want to get it over with. I want to be on the other side of it when he is recovering. I guess this is trying my patience, which I don't have any of.

Well, here is to a successful surgery and being on the other side of it all.

.

I just don't get this ad

2009-10-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Ok I think I missed the mssage... BeeHive State, yes.
Show me state, no? Didn't know there was a lot of skiing there... still not sure exactly what the tie in from the top of the message to the bottom of that one is.

If anyone can shed light... it would be great. Sorry Deer Valley but I think this may just be a message fail.

The Joy in Little Things Like...

2009-10-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

All too often we get upset with the little things. However, it's the little things that can make you happy. After reading tnerd.com yesterday this website istwitterdown.com just makes me laugh.

And for all my friends, yes I read tnerd.com and get joy out of it!

Getting Ready to Go Over Seas!

2009-10-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

My mom, Aunt and I are all getting ready to go to Paris and Geneva! I would expect we would be excited because well we are going to see the city and just to have fun.

After Paris we are going to My Dad's cousins house! Yeepie! She lives in Geneva, Switerland!!

I also hope we get the chance to see St. Pierre Cathedral

Anyway! I am very excited and can't wait to go! I am also looking forward to the end of December when I won't be hanging out on Delta Airlines all day.

Images of Winter

2009-09-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

So the folks at K2 sent me a fun email today about the K2 Charlie world tour. Not sure how much of a world tour it is but the Fanny Pack 2 Trailer has got me thinking about ski season!

This is the first season that I will be on my Lotta Luvs and I am so excited. I only got in a few runs before the end of the season so I am ready. What makes this year even better besides the ski's is we are ditching the season passes. :) We are probably going to be heading up to Alta most of the time but don't have to feel committed to one resort.

Ah the high will be in the 50's tomorrow and I am thrilled that winter is knocking on the Wasatch Front's door.

New Housing Rules

2009-09-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we were really sad earlier this year when we couldn't refinance our house at a killer rate because well, the stupid rules of the Making Homes Affordable plan. They certainly didn't help me. I guess that the calls were heard and the rules have changed. You can now refinance your home without the appraisal. :) Two of us in our office just did it. She did hers through Wells Fargo and we did ours with Bank of America.

We are going to sign on the loan this afternoon. I am so excited to think that we actually got help from the government instead of always being punished for doing the right thing.

Visitors

2009-08-28T13:17:00.001-07:00

Oh my visitors are probably the most stressful thing for me... whether it is just a friend stopping by to my parents. But my aunt is coming and I am stressed. She is a neat freak and I am not really at all. I hope that she doesn't think my house is a mess.

I do know that we are going to have a blast and I am going to show her everything that I can to make sure that she totally takes in Utah. So far on the agenda is the Park City, the Olympic Park Ariel show and then Ruth's for brunch. We may even hit up the Farmer's Market in the morning to make sure that we get some fresh food.

Well, off to finish a few work things......

Win a Madsen Bike

2009-08-26T10:33:00.001-07:00

I need a nice comfy bike so I am doing what I can :)

Oh No No Twitter

2009-08-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Twitter is down!! What is a social media person to do???

2009-08-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

How to Train for a Half Marathon and go on two week long trips?

2009-08-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

So I have known this Patrick O'Brien person for about three years. Through what I would say is the crazy life of social media and TV. He has heard about my new job before anyone (besides rob)... lived through me complaining about Rob being laid off etc. And in turn I have helped him see the light (ya I am taking credit) on how great Lindsey is and encouraging him to take the leap of faith and move from St. Louis to DC. But the amazing thing is... we have never met nope. This Patrick guy knows me through blackberry texts, facebook, my space (when we all had accounts), twitter and countless other number of social media platforms.

This year I have told him that I am going to run the LV Half Marathon...and wow... I can't figure out how.. but I am going to do it. I am going to Mexico in Sept and Paris in October. It is time that I finally met Lindsey and him in person and that he met me and Rob.
Will it happen? Who knows but my bootie will be running my 2 miles tonight. Agh.. that is what I say. But I am going to do it!!

What Have You Done with 105k of your closest friends?

2009-07-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

It's fun to think that in just a few weeks, the Vol Navy will sail down the Tennessee River to Neyland Stadium, the band will put on their wool uniforms in 100% humidity weather, freshman will learn what it is like to see how 100k orange clad fans take over the Tennessee campus. The Football team will take their traditional walk to the stadium but this time with Coach Kiffin. It will be a change but he will be welcomed by a group of people hoping he will be the new chosen one and of course the sweet sound of Rocky Top echoing through The Hill.

But as the new group of Volunteers take the field under their new leader, remember you are part of a long steeped tradition not only at UT but in the SEC. We rally far and wide to make sure that our boys bring home the WIN. So September 5 to give your all for Tennessee and know that we will be cheering you on from around Tennessee, the US and of course the world.

Because Rocky Top will be rising again! It is time!

Love Me! Adopt Me!

2009-07-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

I promised pictures of Nadia and Scooby who are currently at Best Friends in Kanab and really would love to come and hang out in someone's home.

Best Friends

I hope that someone out there stumbles on this blog and falls in love with these pups or maybe another little lovebug at Best Friends.

Looking for a Good Home!

2009-07-27T07:11:00.000-07:00

So my friend Carrie and I went down to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah to do a little volunteer work. Why not give back to those who can't help themselves or the situation they seem to be in.

We spent two days walking and loving dogs! I personally can't think of a better vacation. We met some great people like Damien and Roger who take care of the pups in Old Town pods 3 and 4. I can tell their hearts are big for those pups they care for. Damien walked the red collar dogs with us during our time there and was a lot of fun.

During that time we met two dogs that seem to just touch our hearts. I hope there is someone out there who gives these two love bugs a home soon.
There names are Nadia and Scooby.

Nadia has a bit of a Frisbee addiction but its ok, she loves to chase the frisbee and find a new one and then bury it and go for another one. It was so much fun playing with her. I also took her to downtown Kanab with Scooby and we had a great time walking around and laying in the grass together. It broke my heart to take them back because Nadia didn't want to get out of the car. She looked at me as if to say "wait I thought you were taking me home"?? however, Knowing that Roger and Damien are taking care of them until they find their forever home put my mind at ease!! :) I hope that someone stumble upon my blog and is looking for an awesome dog or two and can open their door to a world of love and of course playing! I already have my hands full with my babies or you know that little girl would have been in Salt Lake!

Pictures of the fun will be posted tonight. I had to sleep after the weekend and made that my priority along with a little ball time with the pups.

It's Time to Celebrate with Best Friends

2009-07-23T06:58:00.000-07:00

It's a holiday weekend in Utah and my friend and I probably could have gone anywhere on a girls trip. But we decided what better thing could we do then go to Best Friends.

A lot of you I am sure know little about this amazing group that has been around for 25 years and are wonderful selfless people. The group makes sure that all animals get a second chance at a good home. They believe that every animal is good they just may have had a really crummy past and it is time for them to learn there is a better world out there. Rescue groups and shelters around the country rely on a helping hand from best friends when they get animals who are really sick or maybe a little more trouble then they have the resources to deal with. So I am looking forward to a powerful and probably emotional weekend with the little critters. And who know we may even meet a Michael Vick dog who is partying with the rest of the crowd.

I hope you have a great weekend and remember to give something back or just pass a little good karma on at the Salt Lake City Farmer's market or to a stranger on the street.

Do people get it?

2009-07-20T13:55:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I have kept politics off my blogs for a long time. In fact I really haven't ever written about it. But universal healthcare has always gotten me all crazy!
I don't think that people understand the healthcare industry from a payer and payee side.

So I thought I would help everyone understand that it is not the health insurance companies that are jacking up your rates like people would like you to believe, it is really the doctors and hospitals.

So here is out insurance really works. You want to go see a doctor who is in your network... by network it is who your insurance company has contracted with. That means the insurance company and doctors have agreed that you will pay a certain price when you come in for you visits. That doctor can never charge you anymore than the agreed price. That is why your bill goes to your insurance company first. That way you won't be paid the same price. But if you go to the hospital without health insurance and never pay the bill... that cost has to be passed on to other people. So doctors and hospitals raise their costs to help cover that gap. However, that would happen in any good business. Starbucks, Kroger, Football games all raise their prices year after year to make sure they don't ever go under and can continue to pay their employees.

Most insurance companies require that you pay a deductible before they will start paying for the bills. Kinda like your car insurance, they are going to make you pay 500 dollars before they fix your car. Unlike car insurance that deductible is yearly and starts over when your company decides.

Preventative care visits are usually always covered with major health insurance companies because they want to protect their investment with you.

So I know people complain about health insurance, rates, etc. But did you know that your coworkers actually play a huge part in your monthly premiums? If you have a lot of coworkers who are having babies and had a couple surgeries last year... there is a pretty good guess that your rates are going to go up. Why? Well much like car insurance there is an increased risk factor that your group is going to spend more money on health insurance next year. The money has to be in a pot or else your bills can't get paid by the health insurance.

Why are my premiums so high? Well that is really determined by your employer. They decide how much of the burden they want to shoulder and then pass the rest on to you. They also determine your benefits and what they are willing to pay for and what they aren't.

I am not saying that this system is perfect or that there doesn't need to be some kind of change. However, I think that most people don't like the fact they have to pay to take car of themselves. However, I rarely hear people complaining about auto insurance or the fact that all states require it and we don't get free oil changes or tires. I think we, as Americans, have to start looking at priorities..determine what is important.

Is it more important to work on improving the systems we have in place like medicare and medicade so they can better help the people they were intended to? Or should we be working to expand our state assistance programs that help families afford health insurance when it isn't offered by an employer and assistance programs by the health insurance companies that work to insure children whose parents can't afford it?

I think that right now we are in a shotgun approach and don't understand the good the bad and the ugly!

Oh No

2009-06-05T13:21:00.001-07:00

I have totally been neglecting my blog. But the good news is.. I have been crazy amounts of time outside and it is paying off.. our yard looks good. It still needs a little tlc but I am going to make it

Great Car Dealership

2009-04-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we can all say we have had a crappy experience at a car dealership. But my husband and I walked into our body shop and car dealership and decided to buy a new car. Within 20 minutes the deal had been made. No haggling just straight up honest people.

so for all you peeps looking for good honest car dealerships check out Specialties Auto in Bountiful. You can't beat their prices and their trade ins. The best part is that you don't go back and forth from floor to manager.

Yes, i sound like an ad but after being treated like I don't know anything about cars at Ken Garff and numerous other dealerships in Utah. I will give props to those who deserve it!!

No don't go

2009-04-02T11:22:00.001-07:00

The Rumors have been swirling that Memphis is coming after Pearl. Don't let him go Tennessee! Work with him. We finally have a basketball program and we can't let him go!
I love watching Bruce on the sidelines and he has figured out how to get people to actually come to the Basketball games without the black drapes on the upper deck. Please Hamilton, use your brain for once, and do whatever you have to to keep the best coach that we have had!!

It's Your Fault Congress!

2009-03-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

Wow, congress you never like to own up to your mistakes. Maybe it is because you think that you are god and are invincible. You gave AIG millions of dollars to help them. Did you tell them what to do and not to do with the money? No and now you are going after those who took bonuses.

sorry but you all screwed up... you still think that throwing money at things will solve the problem. Nope doesn't work that way! so annoying that you all think that you are above everything. Did AIG screw up yes but so did you! You say you can't do this and you can't do that after the fact. Like how you spend millions on pork projects and say we will fix that problem later... what are you doing up there.. because I certainly haven't seen anything that is helping my friends or me get through this cruddy time.

Age

2009-03-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

Oh my poor Cheyenne! for those of you who have known me for a long time. You know that Cheyenne is my baby after all I have had her since 1999 and she has seen lots of people come and go but she knows I am always there for her.. In the past couple months I have noticed she is getting older and it became very apparent this weekend. She doesn't like to jump on the bed anymore. She will but you can tell it takes her a little bit of time to get the strength up to jump. She is starting to be a little more protective of me. She knows she is mine. But she is still kicking and I am happy about that. Of course I have to take her in to get her shots next week and I don't think she is going to be too happy about that at all!!

Ah how we love our dogs!!

On, No I am getting old, wait WISER!

2009-03-13T06:52:00.000-07:00

We all do it, there is a point in your life when you realize that you are getting old. But I am going to look at it as I am getting wiser!

This past weekend I went to Vegas to see some of my dear friends from when I lived there. On Saturday Becca and I ventured to Town Square to check out all the shops. As we kept shopping we kept coming across stores where the music was blaring. We avoided them like the plague. We actually kept saying, lets go in that store but as we approached and heard music we both made a b-line for a different store.

I guess you could say we are getting old, but actually who really wants to shop in a club?? Really, you can't hear anything to make it enjoyable! So all of you who like to go to the club, oops, I mean shops with the music blaring... is it really that enjoyable?

Oh Mormon's you are down right silly

2009-03-10T07:37:00.000-07:00

So I find it quite amusing that all the news stations and papers are talking about the controversial Big Love coming up. Sweet thanks, makes me want to watch it even more.
But the reactions on KSL.com and SLTrib.com are hysterical. The people are worried they are being portrayed in a bad light. Well, they don't need a tv show to do it, all they have to do is keep acting the way that they do.

Now let me clarify, there are lots of nice mormon's who will be your friend and continue to socialize with you even though there is no hope you will change religions for them. But there are the bad seeds that treat you how the mormon's on the show do, where they totally dismiss you and treat you like you showed up from Mars and are there to take over their world. Danger Will Robinson Danger. So LDS Church, don't worry about Big love giving you a bad name.. you are doing that all by your self.

And the question that I do have that a mormon could tell me, why is the endowment ceremony based off of a Masonic ritual?

Daylight Savings Killed

2009-03-09T14:50:00.001-07:00

So we have gotten the whole falling back thing to be shorter... but I really hate changing on a Saturday night. Why didn't anyone think about making the change over happen on a Friday. That way we have the whole weekend to recover.

I am just absolutely dying today and I have a project to get done and my brain won't work.

I know we have an overkill of federal budget but maybe they could do this for us and we won't be suffering next year.

Sticking to a Budget

2009-03-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have enjoyed the fruits of my labor for years. Living in vegas by myself and owning my home allowed me to have fun and know that I was coming home to my house! It was great.

After struggling for a year when Rob didn't have a job... scrimping to the pay the bills and praying that one day someone would finally call. It all fell into place. After he got a job, I admit I went a little crazy... happy that we could actually afford to go out to dinner, and not McDonalds, yes the golden arches get a little pricey when you only have one income.

Well it has been six months since we have gotten back on track and I will tell you it is nice to have the credit cards paid off and start actually saving money. I am not good at it. I will admit i never have been. If I want something I usually get it.

But I have put my credit cards in the freezer, that's right they are in water, and we are living on what we can afford. We are also starting to save money. I am trying to get that Suze Orman plan in place. IT is slowly coming along but don't worry Suze, I am getting there and I am in a better place than I used to be.

Who is this housing pkg going to help?

2009-03-05T09:09:00.001-08:00

It's been about two weeks since President Obama announced his housing initiative. He said this was going to help lots of people. I am thinking nope not really. The people and states that need it the most are going to be passed over.

I called my mortgage broker today to see if it was possible to refinance our house. She was honestly like, I have no idea, I don't know what these new regulations are going to be.

We aren't hurting right now, so I am ok.I was just hoping that this would help us a little more but I guess it will be like the tax relief pkg where my husbands and my tax bracket received the least amount of savings. I know I am gripping but I honestly feel like I am a middle class American who just continues to get screwed!

Yo Congress What About Me???

2009-02-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am looking over the "stimulus" bill and while I agree something needs to be done... I am wondering what they are going to do to help me?
We kept our house, my husband was unemployed for a while, and there is nothing in this bill that is going to help me America's middle class. I am very confused about what this will do for me!

Medical Bills

2009-01-09T07:30:00.000-08:00

So right before Christmas, lucky me, I had my appendix taken out. With that I was rewarded with a one night stay in LDS hospital. Might I say that everyone there, except one person who I refer to as Olga, was awesome. They were all really nice and I got top notch care from the nursing assistants to the doctors, recommendations are available if anyone feels they may want to get their appendix out.

The things that annoys me is, my medical bills. I am a creature of habit and I want to pay all my bills and get them over with. But do to claims processing I can't see them or anticipate how much I may or may not pay. Now, I do have to disclose since I know everything that is on the website, I have been looking at my bills daily.

And I also wonder, what about my taxes... can i write off the procedure even though I didn't get to pay it until 2009? Oh the agony.

PS, if you are ever thinking about having surgery... save up because it will cost you a pretty penny.

Gay Marriage, Polygamy

2008-12-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

Last night I was watching the news and they were debating Gay Marriage in California. I will say I am all for it and I think that if you love someone you should be able to get married. Who cares! I think there are so many children out there who will benefit knowing their parents can get married and aren't allowed.

But let me put this out there... the Gay population can marry so why can't polygamists now? I know roughly 2/3 of the polygamist population is not at all like what is portrayed on TV. They are actually hard working people who go to work and pay taxes.

I think that if we did legalize marriage for the polygamists, that those who do live on those compounds might not be afraid of the government and Child services could make sure that they are following the laws.

I am sure that many disagree but I think this may become a reality one day... not where I live but I think somewhere in the US they might look past what the news is reporting and realize that these people just love each other and just want to live their life.

What in the WORLD CHRYSLER

2008-12-30T07:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it... Chrysler is taking about a quarter of a million dollar ads thanking me for investing in them. Sorry but such a poor auto company is never going to get my business. I personally thought they should crash and burn. They haven't made any effort to become competitive with Toyota and now they are thinking I am thrilled about investing in a car company that is owned by an INVESTMENT FIRM! This is just the latest in a string of mismanagement of funds by the American government... another sign... Banker Buys $37 Million Apartment After Getting $25 Million in Bailout Buyout

Is the Big Bad Wolf Outside?

2008-12-19T06:47:00.001-08:00

Well, it is very common for southern winds to blow in when a storm is heading into the Salt Lake Valley. Needless to say those wind gusts kept me up all night and for that I say thanks since I got to work early.

But after I got to work, I swear the building is creaking! It sounds like part of the roof is just going to rip off. Well, hopefully the snow will come soon and I won't have to worry about us blowing away.

Now as for the big bad wolf, I think he is still a real threat.

The Roads at 715am

2008-12-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

Alright so I am know expert here but this morning a storm rolled into Northern Utah and apparently we all knew it except the Utah Department of transportation.

I drove some of the major roads into work and they were slick. Apparently UDOT didn't get that memo because their response to the harsh weather was 1. we put brine on the roads and 2. we have to be careful with overtime because of budget cuts. Ok so the safety of Utah drivers isn't important?

Sorry KSL but you missed that question and that is poor journalism because that should be part of the story.

I know to leave early and I know if I don't I will take my time.

Only 2 weeks until Christmas!

2008-12-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

So I am so excited for Christmas to come. I really want to know if Santa, aka my husband, bought Rock Band? I really want to open that present now... I actually asked him if we could get 14 gifts and open one a day until Christmas. Didn't work.

Of course there is still my lingering concern... what if we got each other the same gifts?? What if we both went Wii crazy??

Well, I guess I only have two weeks to wait. I can do it, there is plenty going on... and I am sure that I can ignore all the presents sitting under the tree.

2008 Is ending on a high note

2008-12-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

So after being married for almost three years... Rob and I are ending 2008 on a very high note.
After watching a historical election, in a down economy we are paying off almost all of our debt. I am wiping it out in almost one fail swoop by the end of the year. It is so exciting to me that we can do this. I think it is what we need to get back on track.

So I am throwing a little party in my cube and trying to figure out where in the world we are going to go on vacation next fall. Yep, we will have enough money for that!! I am so excited.

It would have been rude.

2008-12-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

So Saturdays are always jammed packed. I always try to cram in a million things. Well today I got up and I worked out and then went to Ross and Michaels.

Ross was for fun and I got a great buy on workout pants, 12.99 nike pants. They are regularly 50 so I thought that was a steal. And I got a thermos so Rob and I could take up chili skiing. Then I headed up to Michaels to get our picture frame they were putting together for us. Well, it seems that they forgot to tell me they don't put wall hooks on unless they put the picture in.

So I trotted back home and got the picture. When I went back custom framing was packed so they called Rhonda to help. If I could have taken a picture with her/him? I would have. I swear I couldn't figure out if this person used to be a Ron and was becoming Rhonda or was going the other way. But all I could think of during the time when I was trying to concentrate on getting our order finished was... Are you a man or a woman? Would have been so rude if I had asked...so I am going with Pat.

Christmas Lights, F

2008-12-04T20:56:00.000-08:00

Well compared to this house we get a big fat F! I think that we are going to have to study Christmas Vacation and Deck the Halls to keep up with this house.

Finally, Family Pictures

2008-12-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

My husband a I were married in 2006 and we hated our reception pictures. We eloped so there are very few pictures from our actual wedding. Gotta love the little White Wedding Chapel!

So I decided this year we would get family pictures done. I found a great photographer, Heather Brown, and she snapped some wonderful pictures. I can't wait to put them up over our fireplace where there have been little pictures littered around.

Why this isn't a story

2008-12-03T13:51:00.001-08:00

Headline: Family of man trampled at Wal-Mart sues retailer.

Wouldn't you actually think this was news if the family didn't sue Wal-Mart? I mean everyone knows that they were going to sue, probably own a hefty part of Wal-Mart, and win hands down.

Selfish or Just Hurt?

2008-12-02T13:39:00.001-08:00

So I don't know if I am being selfish or if I am just hurt by the fact my parents aren' t coming for Christmas.

They asked us months ago if we could come and I told my mom that Rob doesn't have the time off of work. He actually doesn't get vacation for a whole year so we can't go back east for Christmas.
So my mom told me that she and my dad may come out here for Christmas. Well last night she told me they were coming 1. because of my brother will still be there and 2. my dad doesn't want to come here in the winter.

So I guess I am very hurt, in the past 8 years since I have graduated from college I have spent a whopping 2 Thanksgivings back east and maybe 3 Christmases. My brother has been there for all of them, it's not like my parents came to see me and my brother didn't have anyone for the Holidays.

I am a little bah humbug! My tree is up, presents are under it and my lights are all up on the house but I feel like ripping them all down! Screw it maybe one day if I have a kid they will actually come out and celebrate a holiday with me

Oh Dear

2008-11-29T15:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I hope that Tennessee's offense can pull out this game for Fulmer! I want him to go out on a high note... of course our offense is horrible!!

Find Flu Trends and Flu Shots

2008-11-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Google continues to show dominance when it comes to various free platforms it offers visitors.
Their latest and greatest release, the Flu Tracker!
You can find trends for your state and find out where to go to get a flu shot! It is nice to see google continue to branch into new areas.

It's Time to Look to the Future

2008-11-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

Who cares how you voted... it is now time to join together as a nation and hope that we can move forward from this last year of poor economic times.

It has been a bad year and we need to start rebuilding America. We need to get rid of the debt, cut pork programs, and start working our way back to a great economy. I believe we can do it. I think it may take time but it time for everyone to join together and be proud to be an American.

Oh ya and if you voted against gay marriage than shame on you! There is a separation of church and state and give everyone their rights!

ROCKY TOP You'll Aways Be Home Sweet Home to Me!

2008-11-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

THE BEST NEWS EVER! WHAT A GREAT THING TO READ!
I DON'T THINK ANYTHING COULD BEAT THIS... FORGET THE ELECTION... WE HAVE OUR WISH.

ESPN REPORTING FULMER LEAVING AFTER THE SEASON

Our Military Doesn't Deserve to Take a Hit!

2008-11-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

They are paid little for what they do. Military men and women put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms everyday... and now we are going to cut their budget. While I know that the economy is bad and we aren't going to recover soon... I really think we need to think about why we are cutting Military spending. Is it worth it? Is it going to put us at risk for another attack?

I feel like with the military hurting for recruits there is so much more we could do for them... like actually forcing some of those lazy people who won't work into the military! Then they would have a paycheck and actually be doing something instead of just sucking free money from the government.

Just my random thought for the day after reading this article from the New York Times.

A New Lawyer in the Fam!

2008-10-31T06:33:00.000-07:00

After months of agonizing, the results are in and my brother passed the Ohio State Bar Exam! Monday November 17th he will be sworn in. We are so excited! Of course now we are waiting because in the next 72 hours we will find out where he is going to be stationed for the next few years. I am hoping for Hill, Nellis or someplace overseas but if he is on the West Coast mom and dad only have to come once to see us both and that hasn't happened since we both lived at home.

Congratulations to my brother Drew Jernigan! The latest lawyer and newest member of the Air Force JAG staff!

Who Tennessee Should Hire

2008-10-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

It's time for Phillip Fulmer to go. There is no doubt everyone is finally on that bandwagon. Hopefully he will resign and we can go on with trying to make Tennessee the great team it should be.

I am thinking they should hire Will Muschamp!!

He is an SEC guy and he knows what it takes to win!

A little Chuckle

2008-10-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

So in the morning while I am uploading stuff for my job, i always check the newspapers and local and national tv stations websites.

It cracks me up a little bit because this morning I noticed an article on FOX that said Study Shows McCain Media Coverage twice as negative. I am not shocked one bit. While regulations guide that you have to offer candidates equal time, no one says you have to shed them in the best light.

I do think this study proves the public should do their own research and not believe everything they read. However, we have a lazy society that doesn't want to work hard for anything. They want it all spoon fed.

Wonder What happened to this link

2008-10-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

We all know Cafferty is behind Obama but what happened to this link??
Cafferty: Will 'redneck' comments hurt Obama?

Yep there are Tennessee Grads in Utah!

2008-10-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

So this morning I woke up thinking I don't really have any football to look forward too this weekend besides my first Utah football game.. but really their stadium compares to southern high school stadium.

And there in my email box was a message from Robert Barker telling me I had made govolxtra.com

I was so excited... someone actually found my rant about Fulmer all the way from over here in the mountains in the Wasatch. Could the AD actually be listening? I haven't dawned a piece of Tennessee apparel since the dismal loss to UCLA and don't think I will until Basketball season.

But even with the game this weekend at Mississippi State I will give you this little in site from the West coast. Neither team has a defense so a lot of points could be scored the score could be 3-2. I am not sure who will win... I will should be decided over some shots of Jack Daniels...I think maybe those Tennessee boy may just may have a shot at that one.

Next Week, I will continue my quest for the firing of Fulmer after we go 2-5. AFter he gets fired can I start on Kesling because for those of you know don't know the inside dirt... and trust me I worked in TV he is a jerk. Do you think I can start there? I have no respect for someone who has done nothing. Pat Summit and Bruce Pearl those are people who I can respect!

By the way, I may harp on wanting Fumler fired and for Tennessee to move on but I do think we need take the high road because the man has won us a national champions, sec championships, embarrassed Spurrier, and buried our program without David Cutcliffe not once but twice so lets give him a little fanfare when he leaves so that the players know we are behind them and we want them to succeed under their new coach. And I can blare Rocky Top from my back porch and watch all those BYU fans cringe because they don't know what a real beating is.

Go TCU

2008-10-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

I am so happy for number 23 TCU! They knocked off number 8 BYU and scored 26 unanswered points.

Where will BYU end up in the polls?? Who knows.. they don't really play anyone who is ranked.. they don't take the beating that most teams in big conferences do. So will will have to see but they are once again punching their ticket for the Las Vegas Bowl... unless they get beat by Utah. Which I am hoping they will.

My Dream of Tennessee Firing Fulmer May Come True

2008-10-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

My dream of slackers working hard may never come true... they will skate by on government programs and continue to do drugs at the city parks during the day, clog up our justice system and sue people because they feel like it... probably because they spilled hot coffee on themselves and they deserve a million dollars and now I have to drink cold coffee because of it and work my bootie off to pay for they stupid mistake. Yes I do believe people are just that stupid, my case in point PACMAN JONES, he doesn't deserve to be called Adam. Nope the people who created pacman should probably suing for using that name because it is above his skill level too.

But Rocky Top may play loudly from the hills of Tennessee once again as I hear the words beings uttered that Fulmer may, just may be gone. Do I believe it... not until I see picture of the moving van carting his stuff out of the athletic office on campus and students painting the rock saying he is gone. I know that my friends will be calling with the news that the witch is dead and our program may once again be saved. Save it Hamilton.. show the Vol faithful that gave up you on about 5 years ago that you actually go have guts! Because we know you belong to the good old boys club with Kesling who played with Fat Phil and would never say anything bad about him... and get rid of him and give our program some new life... 1998 lucky football ain't going to cut it. We have to get back to basics and start playing like Neyland would and get the recruits back.. I hear there are a lot of NFL coaches out of a JOB and hell even Utah's coaches seem to produce results... look at Urban Meyer.. lets go after Kyle Whittingham. So we can here the cries of Rocky Top from around the United States once again and I can finally replaces that poor little football helmet on the back of my car with something worthy!

living debt free

2008-10-13T11:39:00.000-07:00

I hope that I can get my debt down like this woman after my husband lost his job last year we did loose our nest egg and I am hoping we can get out of debt.
I think she is a little inspiration that we can get out of debt even in hard times.
That I can pass the coffee at starbucks and just live with what I have and not go out to dinner all the time. And of course.. who needs to keep up "with the jones".

The Ski Season Countdown

2008-10-13T07:18:00.001-07:00

The countdown is on! It is official, the resorts are finally posting dates to open!

resort	open
Alta	Nov 21
Beaver Mtn	TBA
Brian Head	Nov 22
Brighton	TBA
The Canyons	Nov 27
Deer Valley	Dec 6
Park City Mtn	Nov 22
Powder Mtn	Nov 22
Snowbasin	Nov 27
Snowbird	Nov 22
Solitude	Nov 14
Sundance	Dec 5
Wolf Creek	TBA

Here they are... I am so excited. I am probably going to have to forgo the normal turkey dinner and hit the slopes with my friends at Snowbasin! Maybe even catch some early runs with my cube mate Sara at Solitude if they really do open on November 14th. Alright.. now I really do have to wax my ski's and make sure that all my gear is ready for the 08-09 season!

Great Friends at Work

2008-10-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

So I was at lunch the other day and I was thinking about how the first year I lived in Utah I hated it! But then I went to work at my new job and I loved it. And I think it is because I realized I really do enjoy the people that I work with. I may not be "best" friends with everyone but I do enjoy everyone.

I enjoy hearing about people's kids, dogs and the trials of Jordan's and the "other" Sara's house.
Of course all houses have their problems.

Well back thinking about what in the world I am going to wear tomorrow. I know really important stuff.

10 Signs TN's Program is Gone

2008-10-07T13:12:00.001-07:00

Everyone should read this post...
It is the 10 signs your program has arrived at the edge of the world

And everyone knows I love TN but come on... even I am starting to think the state is starting to turn a little gold. And eek that Vandy Gold

Oh Dear the Economy

2008-10-07T13:03:00.000-07:00

Last night I was standing in line at the grocery store and this little old lady asked me if I was worried about the economy. Much to her shock I said na, I am just trying to work hard, do the best that I can at my job and just keep a positive outlook on life. And she goes, "oh you must have a husband"! HUH? But I figured the poor sickly lady didn't need my sass, considering I had just come out of the laundry mat because we are waiting for our washing machine, and I just said nope... I can't cry over spilt milk.

Really, I know the economy stinks. I wanted to go on my Italian vacation next year but that is probably going to have to wait. We are going to be taking trips a lot closer to home and hope without a doubt that we get to be one of the lucky few and keep our homes and our jobs.

So, I am not going to go extravagant in these times, as I watch friends jet off on vacations around the world, I am going to count my money save it for a rainy day and explore the US. Because if there is one thing I know.. there is a whole lot of country I haven't seen and I would like to see.

30 Days To Go

2008-10-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

The countdown is on in the Jernigan family!
We have 30 days to go until we find out if my brother passed the bar. We all know he did... unfortunately the state of Ohio does not take our word for it... so we have to wait until Halloween to find out if he passed. And thank goodness mom will finally, finally, finally stop stressing about it!
&amp;lt;a href="http://www.7is7.com/otto/countdown.html?year=2008&amp;amp;amp;month=10&amp;amp;amp;date=31&amp;amp;amp;hrs=5&amp;amp;amp;ts=12&amp;amp;amp;min=0&amp;amp;amp;sec=0&amp;amp;amp;tz=local&amp;amp;amp;lang=en&amp;amp;amp;show=dhms&amp;amp;amp;mode=r&amp;amp;amp;cdir=down&amp;amp;amp;bgcolor=%23CCFFFF&amp;amp;amp;fgcolor=%23000000&amp;amp;amp;title=Countdown%20To%20Drews%20Bar%20Results"&amp;gt;Countdown To Drews Bar Results&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

The Veep Debate

2008-09-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Can I tell for personal greedy reasons the Vice Presidential debate is going to be a riot. The woman who does not know the "Bush doctrine" is going to take on Joe Biden. Oh it is going to be really funny and sad at the same time.. because she is going to make women look bad, really bad. Just so everyone knows... most of us are really smart.. that is why we let those old white men believe they run the world.. HA HA HA

Crap the Economy

2008-09-25T06:42:00.000-07:00

I have been riding an economic high since I got out of college, along with the rest of the country. I have always been fortunate enough to have gotten great jobs that have taken me all over this country.

I think some point along the way we all got a little greedy. I could see the downturn last year when my husband got laid off from a news station, which I hate to say it to my friends still in the business is changing and they just have to face the facts. But now is a time when I wish I was a renter and I didn't have to worry about a house (yes I like the tax write off) but there is no way we are purchasing big ticket items. We are going to get all of our finances in order to prepare for the worst. I don't trust that congress is going to make it any better nor that the next president is going to make it any better either. These are hard times ahead and I fear we are all going to have to buckle in for the bumpy ride ahead. But on a totally random note... maybe people will actually serve their country in the military because it is a way for them to get a great job right out of HS or College. mmm should be interesting to see what the future holds.

Oh my I thought this was 2008?!

2008-09-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

So for all those women who have fought feverishly to make sure that women have an equal voice..... you may want to stop in Utah and help a few women "get out of the kitchen"

I read this great 1950's article.. written in 2008 on ABC 4 today and it was so disappointing.

"SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The ratio of men to women attending the University of Utah medical school is almost 2-1 and one of the most uneven in the country.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, 49 percent of medical students nationwide are women. The total at the University of Utah is 37 percent.

University officials say discrepancy isn't caused by any sort of bias. The admissions criteria are the same for women and men who apply.

Last year, 30 percent of the applicants to Utah's medical school were women, nearly 20 percent fewer than the national average.

Candi Ramos, director of the medical school's office of Diversity and Community Outreach, said part of the reason is most of the applicants come from within Utah, where a majority of the residents are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Ramos said women in the church are usually the primary caregivers at home and less likely to focus on a career.

"I see the culture of Utah is not conducive for women to go into medicine," she said. " from abc4.com

So I totally understand you don't want to lesson your standards to actually reflect the population...but oh my for a spokeperson to actually say this... wow..throw those women into the kitchen.. and tell them to start making babies lady.

While I believe it is true... I don't think you need to go around saying it. Sorry if there was anything else meaningful in the article from the ap..but gee you say that and you have totally lost me and thrown me back to 1950.

Ok, I am going to keep focusing on the outdoors and quit reading the news that way I can continue believing that it is 2008 and there are women who actually want to do something with their lives. AHHHH

9/11 Seven Years Later

2008-09-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

It has been seven years since 9/11 and I can tell you exactly what I was doing. I was working at WBIR-TV and we were getting ready to go into the morning meeting when we all saw the news coverage flash across the tv's. First it was CNN, then CBS, then ABC, FOX and finally NBC. We all were yelling at the tv going why aren't you on the air (we were the NBC affil)

I remember our kick ass News Director Margie Nichols hearding us all into the meeting room and all trying to figure out what in the world to cover. There were planes flying into McCarran airport bound for New York and people left stranded because rental cars around the country were snatched up because everyone was trying to get home.

It is a sad day... a sad memory... knowing how many people died. But I will tell you the one thing that erks me more than anything is that they don't show the footage of what happened that day because it may upset people.. but I feel it is important to show it so we don't forget what happened. And not someone's half cocked conspiracy theory.

So take a moment and remember how this day will always have a black mark in our nation's history.

-PS it was so disrespectful of KSL, Channel 2 and Fox to be doing shear fluff when at 6:46 am mtn time we should have been remembering the horrible attacks on our country. And major props to ABC 4 for nabbing a live report from the Pentagon at that time.

KSL Needs to Learn How to Run a Newsroom

2008-08-25T19:00:00.000-07:00

So tonight i called KSL because they are showing the Democratic National Convention where they have been hyping Americas Toughest Jobs. So of course I call the newsroom... because every newsroom around the country knows their programing. But the old man who answered the phone said... this is news and not programming and I told him that everyone involved with the news should know what their line up is to effectively tease the 10pm news. Oh dear.... the old man needs to just go away... they need people who haven't lived here to run their newsroom. I know they are the dominate leader in the market but there is a big building downtown that controls that.

For example:
I saw a clip of their 6pm news today, really they had the news anchor ask if a convention could ever come to Salt Lake City... That's a no. The state is red and will never turn blue.... Democrats and Republicans only hold convention in swing states. Eek... oh my...

A long day

2008-08-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

So I guess I can't complain too much because state workers get up early and make it to work.. but getting up at 5am killed me this morning. I made it down to Provo and even stopped at the busiest Starbucks in the state, at least for a 10am on a Tuesday morning.

Well, I am going to crash now and dream of Jordan's cookies! And of course read Breaking Dawn because if I don't finish it soon, Becca is going to kill me.

I love Pink's new song "So What"

2008-08-19T08:34:00.001-07:00

Pink's new song "So What" rocks. She is such and empowering woman and I know that all of her songs on her new album are going to be great!!
Take a listen.

Small Market, Small Minded

2008-08-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

So I listen to ESPN radio all the time. I usually try and avoid listening to the local guys.. because well, what in the world have they done with their life. So this morning they were bashing Michael Phelps looks and well I guess that is all they could come up with.. because David James what in the world have you done with you life? Gold Medals? Nope? National endorsement deals? Nope, just sitting at a tv station that is firing everyone because they don't have much money to keep people around.

MMM... maybe you should stick with what you do know.... wait.. we haven't figured that out yet even after all the years you have been on the air in Utah.

Jordan's fruit flies

2008-08-18T13:40:00.001-07:00

Jordan needs to quit bringing all the fruit flies to work! I am so sick
of them. Actually it is funnt because sales has a bug zapper and bug
tape to help them fend off the pests
--
Sent from my T-Mobile Sidekick®

Oh my work computer

2008-08-14T10:13:00.001-07:00

I have had to restart my work computer twice this morning and it taeks
10 minutes to restart.... what a pain
--
Sent from my T-Mobile Sidekick®

On No! What will Hollywood Do?

2008-08-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

Looks like Hugh Hefner is pulling the plug on playboy mansion parties. Fox is reporting it this morning.
It seems it is a cost cutting measure for the playboy company. I say interesting, I am not sure that the "Girls Next Door" can resist throwing a party. Next thing you know Hugh will decide to have a baby with Holly and get a divorce from his wife who lives in the house next door.

Oh well, I know kinda regret not going to Hollywood for the party I got invited too.. I could have actually seen what the playboy mansion looked like for myself. Oh well, maybe next time.. ha ha

Addicted to the Olympics

2008-08-11T06:34:00.000-07:00

I have to admit it.. I am addicted to the Summer Olympics. I always have been because I love the sport of swimming and thank goodness I am or I would have missed the best 400 Freestyle Relay!

If you missed it you can watch it here.... the day before France's main swimmer, Alain Bernard was quoted as saying "We will smash them up!" And even the NBC announcers had little faith that the US team could pull out the gold. But as Lezak came down the stretch in the last 100 riding the wave of Bernard and then just barely out touched him. And I will say the look on the Frenchman's face was priceless... like all that smack talking was for nothing. You could tell during the medal ceremony they were still a little bitter.. but I say ha ha, don't talk smack until you know you can back it up.

I miss my first place

2008-08-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

You know after moving around a lot... I do look back and I miss my first place.
I didn't have to worry about the lawn, garbage or neighbors who didn't seem to car about their lawn.

So I thought I would share my first place with everyone in Sin City. I loved it and I will always cherish the memories I made there....even the ones that tick me off like this picture when all my stuff was gone and I knew that was it. I was done with Las Vegas, for the moment, and had a new adventure to start.

But don't worry, I will be back one day and I am hoping to have a home that has a pool... or at least my friend Becca's house will.

I just wanted to share and I sit here and have a little pity moment for myself.

Football Time in Tennessee

2008-07-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

This morning I was watching and then listening to Mike and Mike in the morning on ESPN radio and they had Phillip Fulmer on the radio and it got me so excited that Tennessee plays UCLA Monday September 1. Then as I was doing a little digging about the upcoming season I ran across the SEC East recruiting map. I can just hear the choir singing right now because there is nothing like SEC football no matter what conference tries to rival it!!

View Larger Map

Oh No

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

My cube mate Jordan is begging for pictures of the dogs. Well here is Cheyenne (my number one baby!) enjoying her pillow and her old bed in Las Vegas.

ps. Jordan she is even sticking out her tongue at you.

Great Neighbors!

2008-07-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

It is so funny, I was driving around the other day... and I was thinking how lucky we got with our neighbors. We live on a little cul-de-sac and we have four neighbors... our fifth neighbor is moving in at the end of the month.

I think that everyone is great and I was thinking about all the people who get stuck with bad neighbors like my mom's neighbor who put her though shear hell because she got direct tv. There are some choice words for her behavior. But I love it that I can borrow my neighbors lawnmower if mine breaks... or head over to our other neighbors house to see their dogs!

It's great to have good neighbors.

Keeping My Fingers Crossed

2008-06-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

No matter how long I have been out of TV (a year) I will always be attached to it in some way. Earlier this month I wrote about the TV Layoffs going on around the country. I am now bracing for round two.

8 Fox Owned and Operated Stations are being sold to an investment firm. The deal was approved by the FCC earlier this month and my inside folks tell me D day is July 14. My little birdie says that there are lots of closed door meetings and a task force being formed which only means one thing...the axe is falling at those stations and employees are going to hit the unemployement lines.

Glad I got out but I still keep my fingers crossed for all those who are freaking out they may loose their jobs!

Reality or the Old Fashion Way

2008-06-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

Face it we are overloaded with reality shows from American Idol, Nashville Star to The Next Food Network Star.

I know that these shows are cheap and easy to make and bring in the big bucks for the networks but do they really produce that many stars? I value the hard work brought by those who sacrifice so much to make it big. You see all these kids jumping to be on MTV's next reality show because they think they are going to be the next big thing.

It takes a lot of hard work and very few people make it big. I hope that everyone follows their dream and works hard to achieve it.

OK.. that's my random thought for tonight.. I am sure it doesn't compare to the Sutherland Manifesto! I am sure Spencer has some great reviews on some indie bands. I personally am still waiting for the interview with Nada Surf!

TV Layoffs

2008-06-23T20:22:00.000-07:00

A lot of people outside of tv don't realize the massive shift in local news media. Over the last year 3 local television stations have been sold to investment groups and that means one thing... run on a lot less. All they are doing is coming into Utah to make a quick buck and get out.

ABC 4 has become the latest victim. Unfortunately, everyone who worked the hardest were the ones laid off. They laid off 27 people and I am sure more will be coming in the tv industry.

KUTV laid off around 30 people but since they didn't do it in one swoop they avoided the Trib and the DesNews coverage. Fox is the last one in the market to be sold we will have to wait and see what happens with that. I have my fingers crossed that no one loses their job but I know that it is probably unlikely considering the market.

I will have to say one thing. I was reading the comments on the Salt Lake Tribune and no one said oh I am so sorry for those people. Instead they were attacking the station. Where is the compassion? We have people picking on anchors but not saying gee we are sorry that the people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the news are gone.

Utah enjoyed having the national news media ownership because of the Olympics but now that, that is gone it is time for the Utah DMA to go back to what it is, small town news. Another reason that Utah has been enjoying a St. George boom. The station here fight every year to keep St. George in our market, I think the FCC would soon let it 1. become its own marker or 2. let it go to Vegas because it is a lot closer. This is just the beginning folks, it is time for you to get your news online.

Snow and Mosquitoes

2008-06-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

Excuse me but I thought it was June?! Yesterday morning it was snowing in the mountains of Utah. Crazy! I really expected it to be nice and warm so I could enjoy the outdoors and the mosquitoes but nope.. it is chilly.

I hoping this weekend will be nice and warm so I can enjoy a little mountain biking.

By the way, the best stuff for fighting off mosquitoes is skin so soft... if you are out.. just take a little vodka and put it on you.

You can also make your own repellent click here for the DIY version.

Alright, more random topics for the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains a little later.

3 Weeks on the Road

2008-04-17T19:17:00.001-07:00

The perks of being out of TV is that I get to go to conferences. Next week i am heading to San Fran for the Web 2.0 conference where we will find out all about the latest and greatest way to run/market/latest gadgets for the web.

But as soon as I am done with that.. it is off to Las Vegas and then Ohio and WV.

Madness I tell you! But I know I am going to love being away from the office for a while.

But before I leave.. it is time to enjoy a little bit of baseball.

Great Places for Ski Gear

2008-04-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

If your looking for a great place for Ski Gear, Level9sports.com tops my list.

They are located in Salt Lake City and are currently on the move so I don't know where their new location is going to be... and from the looks of their web site I am not sure they do either.

But the guys their rock. They know their stuff... and at big box stores that sell gear.. you find lots of punk kids who are just trying to pass the day away.

Oh and if you don't want to head to their store, check out their online deals! Well, they are more like steals but I am sure you will be happy if you don't want to spend your life savings gearing up for the slopes.

Another great place... Backcountry.com

It is also based out of Salt Lake City, if you live here you can check out their store and try on clothes. But if you don't have that privledge check out their online stuff.

Some of it is still a little pricy but if you click on their outlet tab you can find some good deals. Also, check out SteepandCheap.com you can get great outdoor gear. They have a firesale approach and put and item up and sell it until it is gone.

If you are looking for discount tickets hit the local sports stores before driving up the slopes because it can always save you money.

And my number one tip for ski gear... is buy in the spring, stores are unloading their gear and you will have great stuff for the next season.

Life in Utah

2008-03-23T19:27:00.001-07:00

There are millions of people that call Northern Utah home. Many are Mormon and many aren't. It is amazing to those who have lived here all their lives that the non Mormons would move into the Salt Lake City area. But think about it where else can you go play golf in the morning, go skiing in the afternoon, and come home to a nice 3.2 beer? Oh ya and never figure out the liquor laws because a bunch of people who have never had a drink sit on the liquor commission.

I moved to Utah with my husband almost two years ago. I have made some great friends along the way too... they all work for the Air Force. Guess those who are alike flock together! But I love it here. Despite the days where I get frustrated because I feel like because we aren't Mormon people discriminate against us. So I guess my rant is kind of like my friend Crystal's blog because she rants about what people say about Las Vegas and sometimes I rant about what people say about Salt Lake.

So that is just a little about me. Along the long winding road of blogging I will share more about
culture shock of moving from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, the inside skinny on the news, and of course some great places to find ski gear that you may not know about even though you have lived here for years.