The moment you have all been waiting for!

Our Adventures in Oregon

The weather was perfect; A balmy 85 degrees, a little cloud cover but mostly sunny. We had a marvelous time golfing, going to the Coast, seeing the Red Woods, and touring CP my “home town” (also known as Central Point, not to be confused with Clayton Paul). Our first stop was my old house (houses) and then Bear Creek Park. It is a wooden maze castle. I LOVE IT! Clayton thinks he would like designing play grounds like this!

Saturday: We went golfing with my two soccer buddies, Ryan & Nick. It was a lot of fun. I actually made contact and was hitting ok. There were a few holes I was a little over par—but mostly I didn’t keep score. Clayton enjoyed the nice green course and one he had not played before.

We also visited a cute historical town called Jacksonville. It is a fun place to walk thru and visit a couple of shops.

That evening we met up with Ashlee. She is my best friend in Oregon and we were staying with her. However she had just returned from a Trip to Alaska with her boyfriend. So—they took a nap while we were golfing and met up with us for dinner along with an old friend of mine (Amber and her husband Mike). We ate at the Roadhouse which was delicious!!!

Mike & Amber

Ashlee

After dinner we went to see Chuck & Larry with Amber & Mike. While waiting for the movie to start we played scrabble in a coffee shop (just sippin’ our Italian soda’s). I did not really like the movie. I was a little disappointed but I should have guessed that. By the way, we saw 2 LDS churches the whole trip and about 1 million Dutch Bros' (coffee shop). They are like drive thrus all over the place!

Sunday: We drove around to see the Rouge River (got lost on our way there and made a short detour). We went to the House of Mystery (http://www.oregonvortex.com/). Check out the photographs on their page and you will see how interesting it is. The tour was not super great or anything—but it is a very intriguing place. Later in the evening we were going to have a BBQ with friends, but when that fell through, we went to dinner with my friend Tom and his girlfriend Kayla. Tom and I have been best buddies since I was in the 6th grade. It was really nice to see him! We saw their condo and their puppy (shih tzu and Maltese mix). We took pictures of him to show Chloe her new boyfriend. Tom is a cop in Medford (town adjacent to CP). It was fun to hear some of his work stories. After dinner we went to see Transformers (for our second time; highly recommend this movie).

Chloe's Boyfriend! Hopefully their long distance relationship will pan out.

(I love the look of "WOW")

Monday: We visited the Coast. We drove to the Red Woods and walked thru the enormous trees. I believe in giants after seeing these huge trees! The pictures do not display how big they really are. It is amazing!

THESE ARE THE ROOTS OF A FALLEN OVER TREE. JUST THE ROOTS!

We also drove over to Battery Point Light House. When the tide is out you walk across the bottom of the ocean to get to it. We missed a tour but we took pictures of the lighthouse and the view of the ocean.

Finally, we took a drive over to the harbor. I had so much fun getting my feet wet. As a kid I went to the coast every weekend, but my step Dad did not allow us to get wet “if you get wet you go home”; we played on the beach a lot, but never enjoyed the water. So, Clayton and I let the waves crash against our calves. We did not swim, because there are so many rocks on the bottom that it isn’t too safe—but just getting our toes in was great!

Tuesday: Our long drive home. I got a little teary leaving (as usual). I sometimes miss certain things about Oregon but I would miss my family here more--so it is always sad to leave but so nice to visit! We stopped and saw the Smith River, the Rouge Gorge and Crater Lake. It is absolutely beautiful. It looks like a fake background in the pictures, but it is not! We were standing right there!!!!

Smith River

The Rouge Gorge is awesome. Enough water flows through here to fill an OLYMPIC POOL in one minute (over 400 gallons!)

And, there you have it!

2 MORE DAYS!

Well, I am getting to the point where I cannot control the excitement any longer! All weekend I was dreaming of all of my friends from High School. Each time I woke up I was more excited than before and couldn't get back to sleep. I don't know if I can last 2 more days!

I have always been the kind of person who gets super excited (just ask Clayton--I almost get my feelings hurt if I am super excited and he is like "muah, its ok"). For instance, as a kid I would make a countdown to come visit my Dad every summer. Each day I would tear off a number and have my suitcase ready like a week before I came here! For school, I had all of my stuff in my backpack ready with the folder tabs labeled and my crayons in order (yes I would dump them out and re-organize them everyday**Yes a little hint of OCD there.). And I still wake up at the butt crack of dawn for Christmas and usually can't fall alseep either!

Ok, back to the current trip. I am overwhelmed with excitement and trying to get ready....and it is a little stressful. I have got the oil changed, new tires, some new clothes--that aren't so snug on my newly aquired gut, luggage and snacks--all ready to go. Tonight's job is hair cut, pack and get our music ready. We are trying to make a mix of music for every couple of hours--it is a long drive so we need something to entertain us besides the passing yellow lines. I am just so excited! I am struggling to think of what I still need to do. JUST TWO MORE DAYS TO GO.

Now, much to my dislike of myspace, I got an account because all of my friends are on there. I did not know this before this weekend--but one friend has like 200 of our high school classmates on her space!!! I saw one of my friends who I have been trying to track down for years and saw her baby! Holy cow, a baby!!!!! It is wierd because not many of my friends are married, let alone have kids. They just don't get married at 17 and have 6 kids like they do here :)!!!!! Anyways, seeing all of their pictures made me so happy and nervous! They all look basically the same, still weighing the same, looking great etc.....so hopefully I won't totally shock them! I just dyed my hair last week so I am sporting almost black hair and the last time they saw me it was mostly blonde.....so we will see.

We have so many fun things planned (going to the Coast, Redwoods, Golf, P-A-R-T-Y!) and the time is just not going by fast enough. I cannot wait to get the drive over-with and the party started!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will be sure to take lots of pictures and post when I get back.

Sorry, as you can see by the discombobulated post--I am anxious and a spacecase. See you when I get back!

My Four's

At Jen’s request here are my fours:

Four jobs I have had:

1) Obviously the Bank where I work now.
2) I worked at a CPA firm as Auditor (Nerd Alert, I know)
3) Real Estate Office Secretary, Weber State Department Secretary, blah blah was that a telephone ringing?
4) Favorite job (well, volunteer job) I used to volunteer at Elementary schools when I was in high school and at Weber, as well as coach Kinder Soccer Coach. I loved it!!!! If my schedule would allow for it now, you better believe I would still do it.

Four Movies I Love: Too many to name but here is one from different categories not in order
1) Fight Club/Momento (Edited) Great mind boggling movies.
2) How to lose a guy in 10 days
3) LOTR—amazing graphics, story and cast!
4) Most movies with Jim Carrey (except the MASK—hated it), Chris Farley, Will Farrell or Martin Lawrence (if it is clean).

Four Places I have Lived:
1) West Point, Utah (age 0-4)
2) Roy, Utah (4-5)
3) Central Point, Oregon (5-19)
4) Clearfield, Utah (19-current)

Four Favorite TV Shows: Oh you mean the few shows on TV that are worth watching without all of the SMUT. Yes, I am bitter about the downfall of television and what they allow on TV!!!!!!
1) Prison Break (won’t miss an episode)2) American Idol3) Jeopardy, Family Feud, or the Price is Right 4) Extreme Makeover- Home Edition!!!!!! Clayton and I love this show; we got to help out on the Bountiful makeover!

Four Vacation Spots—that I have been:
1) Caribbean Cruise
2) Hawaii
3) Does Bear Lake count?
4) Oregon count?
Hummm, I guess I need to go on a real vacation.


Four Favorite Foods:
1) Cotton Candy
2) Cake Batter Ice Cream with Sprinkles
3) McDonalds old #2 meal (2 cheese burgers)
4) My mom’s roast, potatoes and carrots.

Four Hobbies/ Interests:
1) Soccer, I love to play! I am quite out of shape, but I enjoy the sport very much.
2) Watching movies--yes it is a great hobby
3) Arts/Crafts—I am no artist, but I like to do things that gets me out of the regular mundane (aka nerdy stuff).
4) Mario Kart (64 edition, wanna challenge?)

Four Places I'd Rather Be: (there are more serious things that I won’t post on my blog about where I would rather be, but for the time being…)
1) Hair free—except for my eye brows and head. Obviously I wish my facial hair was non-existent and that laser hair removal actually worked!
2) 30 pounds lighter
3) On the beach—sipping a nice fruity slushy sitting next to Clayton
4) Sitting under a willow tree reading a good book

And there you have it folks.

Just a few things for your enjoyment.

After seeing the cute new baby Kate, Clayton, Mike and I were talking about "cute" babies (And no we were not just being polite about Kate Metcalf--she is an absolute DOLL). Any who--Clayton made the comment to Mike that I had "cheeks" as a baby, which is an understatement. Sure we have all seen those wonderfully cute chubby babies that just make us smile. However, every once and a while we see one baby that makes us think, WOW, look at those cheeks! Here is a perfect example of Robinson Cheeks for my friend Mike (and anyone else who enjoys a bit of PUDGE). Yes, that is them sitting on my shoulders hiding the neck that is under there somewhere. Don't feel bad if you are uncontrollably laughing, because every time I look at this picture I crack up.

By age three I had mostly grown out of them. Wait, not really, I am just sporting them with a lovely tube top that was so popular in the 80's.


OK, so that is for Mike and Clayton's enjoyment.

Next is my cute dog....when we returned from Clayton's family reunion, Chloe found and fell in love with our air mattress. We left it on our living room floor to watch movies and lounge around with our sunburns, and she loved it. It is not only easy for her short little legs to climb up on, but we couldn't get her off of it. As soon as we would start letting the air go out, she would look up at us like what the heck, this is my new bed! Needless to say it is still out taking up most of my living room.


She is getting so big. Here are some pictures to compare her 6 pound growth so far....
This is the first week we had her.....
And this is just in the last two weeks...
Look at that cute fluff! Chloe got her first real hair cut today, and it is a bit shorter, but we still love her!

Well I think that is it for now. Oh, 8 more days until we leave for Oregon!

SCROLL DOWN

Sorry, I saved the pictures of my house to a draft and now it has been wiating so long, it posted below "lightening speed".....so scroll down to see the pictures (finally) of my house.

Lightening Speed

It seems like life is flying by, no time for pictures, posts or even toe nail painting (that's right it has been awhile). But, I am still alive, soon to post the pictures of my house like I have been promising for months.

For starters--I am stoked for July 19th. Clayton and I are heading to Oregon! I cannot wait to take him to see where I grew up, meet my friends and visit the sites. I will be taking plenty of pictures to post there.

We also just got back from Mesquite. Nothing too exciting and DONT EVER LET MAIDS CLEAN YOUR ROOM. I had stuff taken or missing from my room and the hotel did nothing about it! They were my fav PJ's!!!!!!!!!!!!!! But lesson learned, never have your room cleaned and make sure you can totally get along with the people you go with (wink, wink). It was fun but short, hot and a little bit of a bummer; all a story for another day.

House--anyone know how to get rid of box elder bugs? Honestly I have a least 200 at my back door every night. I spray off my large porch and 6 feet of dead lawn, but they are like bunnies--mating like crazy populating my backyard. My cute yard I had (with all my hard work) was ruined in the first week by the hot sun, not enough water, a trim from the yard care guy about to the ground and the bugs. So I am trying to water, feed and control the small area that is left with a little bit of greeness. So if you know any tricks, bug killer that actually works, let me know. Ortho MAX has not done the trick regardless of my 400 sprays a week :).

Pup--Chloe is doing great. She is getting her new teeth in, can go up and down the stairs, loves to sit on the porch and watch the next door neighbors, and is pretty much potty trained. She is just a big fluff ball--almost 9 pounds now and is a great guard dog. Instead of protecting our front door or strangers, she just runs right up to them with her tail wagging a million miles an hour. I am seriously considering getting her a little buddy to play with. With all of the people food we feed her, she might get chubby if I don't get her a play mate for all of the time I am at work and she is sleeping or watching her cartoons.

Well, I guess that is it for now. I promise I will post again shortly, maybe before another 2 months go by! Happy Sunshine.

Home Sweet Home

I finally have pictures of my house! That only took me forever and a day. So here is the beautiful tour of my Condo. I am by no means a great photographer--but what can you do.


Here is the kitchen/dining area. We eat in the living room and have seriously ate TWO meals at my table; pretty sad (the table was my Christmas gift last year from Clayton, I absolutly love it!).


My large back yard. Yes, that is a 50 foot hose rolled up, but it was cheaper than a short one. I laid those pavers myself, along with the sod and have the scar to prove it. NEVER TRY TO PUSH A CART WITH PAVERS IN IT. IF IT HITS A BUMP IT WILL FLIP OVER YOU. Get one of those flat bed thingys. Thank goodness for the nice guys at Lowes who picked it up off me! The back yard, although HUGE, is hard to keep clean from the box elder bugs and most of my "grass" is not thriving per say.


The main bathroom (a little sissy but oh well my mom likes roses). The bathroom downstairs is cuter--brown and light blue. But it is only a half bath so it is hard to take a picture of it.


Here is my living room. The curtains are now hemmed so it is not one big red to brown wall and we are looking to get rid of my D.I. chair and get a love seat. I really like the brown and red. It is a little dark, but those are my new favorite colors.


My bedroom is my favorite. I have never got to choose colors or decorate a room, so it was a lot of fun! Again, RED, BROWN and TAN. Thank you for all of those who helped paint. It turned out really well even if you can't see it with my crummy camera and lame photo taking abilities.

So there you have it. My home sweet home! (Landlord free)!

Pictures of my Cute Little Chloe!

Hooray for Pictures! This is Clayton's first picture with his favorite pup Chlo Chlo!
This was originally where she slept and spent her time while I was at work.......

(yes, it could double as a baby play pin).

Now, this is where she roams while we are gone and she sleeps with me in my bed (Sorry the pictures are so dark. I really need a better camera). She has such a cute little mo-hawk. I like it with a little pony tail but she scratches at it.
However, Clayt just likes the fluff on top.
Look at that cute pink bone tag. SIMPLY ADORABLE!!

P.S. This is the new house--even if you can't see too much of it. Those pictures are up next in line to get. Sorry it has taken so long....

After her first bath--she was pooped. She was cold and shivering so we heated up a rice pack for her to lay on to stay warm; hoping not scare her of a bath.

Oh look at that cute little bear face! She is the cutest puppy in the whole world (still sporting the collar, no longer the "death collar"). At our last vet visit she weighed 4.3 pounds; she is training to be a guard dog as we speak. Shootin' for the stars~
AAAAAWWWWW She loves her soccer ball! A dog after my own heart.

Yes, she is terribly ferocious! Just look at her thrash her animals.

Well, I guess there is not much more to say--these cute pictures say it all!

For Grandma

Maybe you do or don’t know but I did not grow up with a “real” Grandma (or Grandpa for that matter). My Mother’s mom died when she was four, her father passed away when I was 5. My Dad’s father passed away before I was born and his mother died when I was about 8. Since I lived in Oregon growing up I didn’t get to see my Grandma. There are only about 3 times I can remember seeing her. Now, this is not a poor me entry because did I have step grandparents (none that really liked us unfortunately). But last night I got to thinking about Grandma Scothern and what things she might enjoy from all of her grandchildren.

Clayton and I watched the Jazz game last night with her (POOR REF-ING BY THE WAY—wait till the Rockets come to SLC!). She is so sweet, making us cookies and staying up late to let us finish the game. She started to tell us stories of her and Grandpa Scothern dating. He would fly her to Idaho just for lunch in a plane. What a cool date! She just lit up talking about it. She started telling us about all of the kids and kids’ kids’—going thru all of her pictures in her living room. There are so many picture frames, that she knocks them over to get to some of them (because of her shakes). I got to thinkin’—we should make her a scrapbook. Not too frilly or anything, but have each of the kids do a page. For instance a photo (for example Mindy had a picture of her family and she wrote what she remembers about Grandma) and then on the adjacent page write your favorite memory of grandma. It would not take long to do and I think she would really enjoy it. It probably wouldn’t be ready for Mother’s day unless everyone really got crackin’. We could even just give it to her for a present because we all love her so much!!!!!! What do you think? Any ideas? It would be cute to have a young picture of her in there too (do we know where we could get a copy?).

Mindy—I hope you don’t mind I used this cute picture!

Well, it was just an idea. Let me know what you think.

Tax Season, Weddings & Collars

Tax season is over. I am sure a few of my fellow nerdians will breathe easy now that they are not going crazy with taxes!!!!!!

I put my check in the mail yesterday to the IRS. This was the first year that I owed on my taxes--heart wrenching to mail in that $42.00. Now, I know some are laughing thinking it is a mere $42.00 (I pay more for a message, right?)....but honestly they kept $6,000! I was hoping to get some kind of a refund!!!! That is annoying, so to solve the problem I told Clayton I do not want to file single again (hint hint)! So we will have to see when December 31 roles around :).

Last weekend was Clayton's mom (Mamba's) wedding. It was really nice; I am so happy for her. Learning more about her life and getting to know her even better (from working with her) makes it more sweet. She deserves the very best and I think she has found him. Congrats!

Now if anyone knows someone else who is single--MY MOM IS SINGLE. Sure, she is kind of dating someone but not really. So keep your eyes peeled. I know she loves Tom Sellec, Kevin Costner (because she saw his buttocks in Dances with Wolves) and Sean Connery.

Now on to the exciting stuff--more rambling with no pics. I finally have a desk set up in my room, so hopefully I will take some time to get the pictures off my camera. Chloe has finally decided her collar will not kill her. At first she would take three steps, then lay flat on the floor with her legs out like Bambi on ice. She would look up at you with those big dark eyes pleading with you to take off the death collar. We tried putting it on her for a few hours each day which was suggested by the VET. One day my mom had put the collar on her and when I got home she must have forgotten it was on because she ran over to me. Since then, I did not feel so bad about leaving it on her--so it has stayed on. She still scratches at it, but will run, jump, play and bark. So she is fine. Her pink bone name tag is my favorite, especially when you can hear her come up the stairs. She is just so darn cute!!!!!

Pictures and more ramblings coming soon for all of those closet bloggers who read but don't post. Enjoy!

PET PEEVES!

Yes, it is hard to believe I know, but I do have several pet peeves. Today a guy called my work and just really ticked me off--and it just made me think of these little things. I guess I just wanted to share them with the group to get them off my chest for a moment. (Please talk amongst yourselves if you must).

1. Area codes. Sure there are so many phone numbers out there that we need a code for other states, etc. But why when I call Salt Lake I get the following message, "you do not have to dial a 1 for this number". If the phone system is smart enough to know we do not have to dial a one--why doesn't it just put us thru? It is so frustrating because other days you will call a number and it will give you the message, "you must first dial a one". HOLY COW JUST PUT ME THRU~!

2. Small envelopes. Why would a logical person mail a return envelope to a business in an envelope smaller than the one used to mail the invoice? Don't you think we would use a business size check to pay the invoice? why should we have to fold it in half one way and half another way just to fit it in your stupid small envelope? Those who send small envelopes should not get paid. (Yes, some call me cut throat)

3. Loud Voices & Voice Mail. Some people call it common sense I call it common courtesy--if you are in an office (yes, my work) and you know you talk extremely LOUD, close the dang door. That is what it is there for. And when you check your messages, don't have it on the highest volume on your speaker phone. HONESTLY, I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR MESSAGES THREE DOORS DOWN.

4. Finally, my last one for now, is when you tell someone three or four times (when taking a message for Doug), "what is this regarding because Doug won't remember your last phone call" they say, oh he will know. NO HE WONT, I give him his messages and see him scratch his head wondering who the heck you are. You are not the only person he speaks to and no you are surely not that important!

Geepers. Who are these people taking over our world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorry for the frustrations, but actually, I am breathing more freely now. Thanks.

TOO MANY THINGS

Too many things are going on to actually post pictures, let alone get the photo's off my camera. So I am sorry these past few posts are so "uncreative" and "unstimulating".

I have finally moved into my condo! Before we moved in, we were able to get it painted--with the help of several friends (THANK YOU). It was rush rush to get it painted and moved in all in one weekend!; it was super hectic but with everyone's help it went by pretty fast.

Shanna, Natalie, Rhet, Sarah, Mike, Evie & Steve, Missy, Clayton and my Mom did a great painting job. They came right in, grabbed a roller and got to work. I really appreciated all of their help. THANK YOU FOR MAKING IT GO SO QUICK! Then for moving my brothers Jason, Jeff, Brandon, and his friend Shane also did a great job. Shane who we call "Hulk Hogan" just grabbed tons of large objects and walked them right into the moving trucks. Who needs three men and a truck when you have Hogan???? Not me. The "boys" moved all of my furniture out of my rental and into my condo in TWO AND A HALF HOURS. It was great!!! I finally didnt have to move my own couch, dressers, etc by myself!

Chloe likes our new house. Even though we dont have a "backyard" she barks to go out and we take her to a common side area. She is so good. We no longer keep her in a playpin but simply put up the gate at the stairs. She goes out when I go home for lunch--and the rest of the time she does great (no messes!). It is amazing. The only challenge we are having is her collar; it hasnt changed since the last post. I guess I should have known princesses dont wear a collar; but she will just have to get used to it.

On Saturday I delt with my bi-polar landlord for the last time! Hooray!!!! I was able to buy a washer & dryer with my deposit money. Getting the money back was a trick but my Dad (Big V) came over and helped us handle the situation. Thanks Pops.

But wait--what about a car. Oh that's right, I sold my car the same day I bought my house. I have been driving my sisters Ford F150 for the past two weeks. It is way nice (for sale also if anyone is interested) but it is more expensive in terms of gas than my car was. But, needless to say, I purchased a car last night. I found a great deal (if everything works right for a while) on a 1998 Honda Civic. It only has 86k miles on it!!!!!! So my payments & insurance are $204 less than what I was paying before. I am stoked! I will call it my little red sports car, although it has a dent in the door and it is missing about 12 inches of molding on the passenger door. Close enough for me.

Well, hectic as it has been, I have really appreciated everyone's help. Now I have time to breathe as soon as i get unpacked (when things are straightened, I will post some pictures I promise). Thanks again to everyone~

Quick Update

Hello! I am closing on my condo today at NOON! I am very excited to get over this hurdle and get into the moving in & decorating stage. I am buying the condo from is a single mom and she cannot move out by today, so I have to wait until Friday to take possession (which is totally fine). I took Friday off of work to get set up for painting and that is where the fun will begin!

It has been a little difficult to pack this week, my sister (Sheryl) has had me watch her son Tate the past few nights. She is in the hospital with their 6 month old; BOTH BOYS HAVE RSV. It is very similar to Ben & Danielle's situation except my newphews are slightly older than when Seth and Adam got it. It has been interesting try to pack around the puppy and Tate.

Also, we had a yard sale this weekend. Thank you to everyone who helped. Mamba was able to sell her Mary Kay and stuff from storage along with my Mom's storage stuff. I was so proud of my mom for getting rid of some items. She has packed things around for so long, it is nice to know we wont have to move it again! We did pretty dang good at the sale--all together we made close to $1,000.00. SO THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!

Chloe is doing good. She sleeps thru most of the night. I have decided to let her sleep with me for part of the night after she wakes up a couple of times...it is just easier that way because she will stay asleep. It is funny but she sleeps in my hair by my face. As long as she is sleeping, i dont care where. Going outside isnt too hard for her, but if we are not watching her, she has had a coupel of accidents. But not bad. I am happy that portion of her training is going so well. The collar thing is not. She acts like she is dead if you put it on her. She will mope around (not kidding) until we take it off. While getting ready for the yard sale I wanted to have her outside--so I put on her collar. She laid on the ground and wouldnt move for like 4 hours! She just lays there all sad. She wouldn't eat, play or anything. So we finally took it off of her and she started jumping around, eating, playing.......SILLY DOG! This part of her training might prove to be quite difficult.

Well, that is the quick update for the day--I will get photo's on here soon with the puppy and the condo. Thanks again for everyone's help!

Chloe's Arrival

This is my 8 week old new puppy Chloe! She is not a Yorkie, but actually I think she is cuter. She has a squatty little body, the most precious little snorts when she sleeps and the cutest little bear face!

Here she is with her two sisters before we bought her. She is so cute; not quite 2 pounds yet.

Needless to say, I am tired because she wakes up every two hours in the night. I tried the whole kennel thing the first night....that didnt work for me. I felt so bad because she would cry so much, so the kennel ended up with me in my bed! I then had to put my fingers thru the front just to let her sleep by them. Clayton & I read online they like baby play pins. So we are going to try that. Last night she did much better in there. She does not like the dark, but loves her soft green bed (that she picked out at Petsmart).

Chloe is really good at going potty outside and has had very few accidents in the house (on linoleum). Each time we take her outside she has gone potty. We are not supposed to have a dog at our rental--so we tried to keep her a secret. However, since she was sick today and so was Clayton, the landlord found them today. He said it was ok since she was so small--and that we just need to make sure she doesnt go potty on his carpet.

I will post some more pictures as soon as we take some more. OOOO she is so cute. I almost had tears in my eyes this morning because I had to leave her to come to work. Thank goodness Clayton could stay home with her today....She will either get used to her surroundings when I move into my new condo or I will just have to watch for a small dog at a shelter.

Anywho! There she is my precious Chloe.

Appraisal

Just to keep everyone updated; it looks like I will be moving in in about two weeks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The appraisal came in and I am good to go. I can't wait. After moving in and getting my Mom's stuff in storage, I will be on the hunt for a DOG.

I found some paint colors I like and a washer & dryer. If anyone has any painting ideas or decorating ideas, let me know. I really like Gary & Marylin's wall on the south side of their house (the light & dark kind of mix). It is georgous. What do you think about thick stripes in a bedroom--brown and tan? What about kitchens? Any ideas?

CUTEST EVER

There is some material contained in this post that is appropriate for children. In past posts I have mentioned that I want a dog. Not just any dog, but a cute little Yorkie, Shitzu, or Maltese. This past weekend I found one that I wanted, a YORKIE. Clayton & I fell in love with it. We started thinking of other names and now have a list of "dog names" (male names since my girl dog name is already picked)

I dont have $1,400 extra bucks laying around unfortuately. However, before you think, "that is a lot for a dog" you might want to take a quick peek at the pictures. Now, here is where the warning comes in. I am sure several (if not all of you) will get a smile on your face just looking at these adorable animals. I cant help but smile and jiggle whenever I see them or just think about them. I turn into a little kid again each time I catch a glimpse of them!!!!!!!!!!!!! So, you might just find yourself falling in love with these little dogs.

Now $1,400 is a lot but I have found ones that are cheaper than the pet store on ksl.com. So, if I do get extra money sometime soon, these dogs are MINE! Honestly, these are the cutest animals ever. If you dont know much about them they can travel anywhere in a cute purse, sweaters at the store fit these small cute dogs, they reach up to about 3-5 pounds, they are considered yappy--but when trained are not constant barkers, they can be trained to go potty in a littler box or outside, they are great with kids, and they need LOTS of attention (that's not hard just look at their face), etc. etc. etc.

ON TO THE PICTURES ALREADY!
HERE YOU GO, PREPARE TO FALL HELPLESSLY IN LOVE!!!!!!!!


(oh my gosh, honestly like a cute little snuggly bear face!)
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(now, you can all enjoy the name Pretty Little Miss Kitty)

(Just look at her in PINK, I can just see her in my little dog purse) !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Accepted!

I have an accepted offer!!! Now, lets cross our fingers for the appraisal to come in. This time I made sure to look up condos that have sold in the area and checked their selling price. When the appraiser comes, I know that the comparables have been around $79-$81k. Perfect! I am so excited!!!!! This condo has been updated somewhat...but you will probably all remember Greg & Jen's layout.

Here are some pictures. Now, just imagine different furniture, carpet and paint. I think that will make all of the difference in the world. Not that it is bad, it is definitely move in ready--but a little more color I think will spruce it up.

Condo again

Well, back on the band wagon of houses. I just might put in an offer on a house this weekend. I am addicted to utahrealestate.com and unfortunately in my price range they are all CRAP. I dont have the money to put into fixing something up--so for the price and the age of the homes, CONDO is where I am at.

You may remember Greg & Jen's condo when they first got married (yes, before I knew Clayt). Well, it is in there. The one that I am looking at has been updated and I would want to carpet and paint myself. The pluses of the move would be 1. DOG (yes, pretty little miss kitty) 2. Tax Deduction 3. IT IS CHEAPER THAN MY CURRENT RENT (that is right, cheaper than my rent) and 4. I would actually be putting my money somewhere for me (not a landlord).

It is cute, simple but room enough for my mother & I. I love the idea of doing what I want. My house that I rent now is falling apart and old. Not to mention we cant change anything because it is the Landlords GRANDMA'S house and heaven forbid we change or update anything. The doors in our bathroom (in from my mom's room and out to the hall) touch the sink & tub. Our toilet and tub TOUCH! So to have 1.5 bathrooms with ROOM TO MOVE is a huge plus!!

So I will keep everyone posted. If anyone has tips on carpet, paint, etc. PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

Poor Celebrities

Ok, so I guess I am one of those who are a little harsh on celebrities. I feel they are in the public eye and should have morals--since everyone is always watching them. One of the celebrities that I think is horrific (aside from being arrogant) is Kobe Bryant. Why does the NBA allow Kobe Bryant to continue to be a star when he is a rapist? Yes, women may have been permiscuious (I can't spell) but it was all over the news. He wasn't really punished!!!!!! Either were the guys on the Jazz that had an encounter at a strip club. I just think it is horrible that talent outweighs our moral duties. I fear for my unborn children! MAKE PEOPLE ACCOUNTABLE!!!!! I usually don't feel sorry for any of them because they are "rich & famous" but I might have changed my mind for a little bit.

Anyways, back to the point. I have had a slight change in heart. Not that I am conforming, but just a little empathy maybe. I truly do feel bad for Britney Spears. Quite frankly she is not a role model by any means, but give her some space!!!!!! Poor girl just had two kids with a complete idiot (which the media played up), she gets a divorce, then she decides, "hey I want to be young--so I will party". That didn't work, so she had a break down and shaved her head. NOW THEY STILL ARE NOT LEAVING HER ALONE. For heaven sakes, the media is so unforgiving. Do they realize they are the cause of so much stress and so many hurtful rumors? They are the ones portraying these people just so they can be the top show/magazine. I think it is sad.

Another person who I actually do not like AT ALL is Lindsay Lohan; but her Mom (on an interview) had a great point. She went to pick up Lindsay from treatment for a day...they were bombarded by cameras, media etc. So instead of being followed around, the Mom said, "you want an interview--I will have on with you". The Mom then proceeded to tell them that she wants this aired on TV. The reason she was doing the interview was to tell them that someone was going to get hurt. They need to have the decency to BACK OFF somewhat. Sure, do you job--report your news, but do not follow, chase and put cameras in every ones face every second of the day! I thought it was a very valid point. Kodos to the Mom; I was happy to see that interview on TV. Not that it changed anything, but maybe one person from the media will stop and think about it for one second.

Closet Bloggers

Now, I know a few of you who are reading this are "in the closet bloggers". Not to mention Shanna Taggart or Jamie Russell :). Sure, you read our blogs (never posting comments) and never doing your own blog so we can see what is going on with you. I say we, like I am speaking for a community, but it is really my own opinion. You already know how much fun it is to read about someone else, and I am not talking about the National Enquirer. So, I highly recommend you start one of your own. I want to read about you!!!!! If you are asking if I keep a journal (because you dont and therefore you wouldnt know how to keep up a blog), no I dont keep a journal (never really have)--but it is fun just to post stupid thoughts or events on here for others to enjoy.

Next, don't be discouraged by the false idea that it takes a computer nerd to keep up a blog (FALSE, I DO NOT MISS JIM). It only takes a few minutes to creat a blog and start posting. If you can check your bank account balance & email your buddies, you have what it takes to create your own blog. So get started!!!!

Now, that I have guilted you into our little circle of bloggers, let me know what your blog is and I will read intently & post regularly.

So little time.

So many things to do as we start the new year, and already I feel as if there is so little time.

Here is a quick update over the last month....I had a wonderful Christmas. It was quite busy, but I had a nice week off work (Dec 26-Jan 2). Clayton and I just relaxed most of the time--nothing too exciting for my vacation, but at least I was not at work.


Speaking of work, I finally have my own office. An office all to myself! Along with that came several new duties to add to my work load but at least it makes the days speed by. I do not have to smell other people's lotion, perfume or hear their stupid jokes. And since I am no longer in plain view of everyone (to stop off to chit chat) I get more accomplished! It is really nice, but there were some downers for example cleaning out some one's old desk (crumbs, old keys, garbage). What made it worse was she was still here; I got the whole "Boy, it doesn't take you long to take over my desk"--lets face it. She was right, it doesn't take me long to push her right out the door so I can finally have some space (he he he). I felt a little awkward. But I got over it as soon as I started settling my stuff in.

Clayton and I got a fish tank (again) and four new fish. We bought 6 little ones, but the big fish ate them in about 15 minutes. So we flushed the mean fish (dead or alive--they were mean) and bought new ones. Their names are Spike, Goldie, Marshall and Boots. Quite cute. But Spike is still acting a little aggressive. We actually inherited 4 fish when we got our tank from my step brother. Little did we know they were all in the category of aggressive. That is why 3 of the 4 were flushed. Spike, however did not seem aggressive. So we kept him hoping for some new friends he could chase around the tank.....and that is what we have now. If anything does happen, we will get rid of Spike and keep our other goldfish. Goldfish are easier to care for, they are much cuter than Cichild's, and there are more varieties to choose from. We have not got super attached to any yet, just because we are basically acclimating our tank with the fish we have. So if they die, it was for other fish that will come after them. Sad, yes, but true. This is the only pet we can have in my rental--so hopefully we will be able to get a dog. We both really want a dog. I want a small dog like a shitzu or maltise. Clayton wants a lab. So, when we get a house, I will have mine and he will have his.

Besides moving my Dad into his new monster house, putting away Christmas, and working out, I have not been doing much. Remember that goal I set for 25 pounds a while ago--well.....the goal is lose 30 by April 1. So far I have lost 4 from going to the gym with my gal Lydia. It makes it much easier to have someone to go with, to keep you motivated. So if anyone wants to join our Lady Fitness, club....we are open for it. If you have any good recipes, I would also enjoy them too.

Well, I guess that is it. Nothing too exciting, but I still keeping busy.

Oh ya, and don't forget Prison Break starts again this Monday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YIPEE.