Carlie Michelle!

Eyelashes!

2011-02-20T16:58:00.003-07:00

Hey Blog friend! I'm now doing eyelash extensions, and would love to do YOURS! Please feel free to email me (carliebugg@hotmail.com) or give me a call to make an appointment!

Can't wait, you're going to love them!

Down the Bayou....

2010-07-15T12:37:00.013-06:00

Last weekend we took an Airboat tour of the Bayou.

It's funny to think that a swamp could be beautiful, but when you are there and surrounded by it, it's easy to see that it really is amazing.

When we first met our tour guide Dusty, he told us that with a little luck, we would get to meet his swamp dog.....
Well we did! This 12 foot alligator named "Big Boy" is Dusty's swamp dog. When we first got to the area that he hangs out in, we turned off the boat and the tour guide started clapping his hands and calling him by name. We waited a few minutes and nothing, so we started to leave when he suddenly popped up. Just like a dog being called, he came for a treat of raw chicken.

It was amazing how close he came to the boat. If you were brave you could have reached out and touched him he was that close.

This little guy hung on to the front of our boat the whole time, quite impressive seeing how fast we were going!

After our tour we headed to PreJean's for some lunch. We were just finishing up when Tyler's dad said "that's Billy the exterminator!" We had seen previews of this guys show but hadn't actually watched it before, But we were not about to pass up on a photo with a Louisiana celebrity, so we kindly interrupted his lunch for a great photo with his mullet! Love it.

We also saw his truck in the parking lot, couldn't pass on that photo either!

Everything we have done since we've been here has surpassed my expectations every time! We are having a blast here, there is so much to do and see. We're having a fun summer!

Fireworks!

2010-07-15T12:13:00.008-06:00

We spent our fourth of July on the bank of the Mississippi, at an event called

"Fireworks on the Mississippi"

Dock of the USS Kidd

It was such a fun night! And the fireworks were amazing over the water. It was a fabulous time!!

Luz-ee-ana

2010-06-15T12:04:00.011-06:00

Thats how you say it when you're from this part of the county. Baton Rouge Louisiana, that is where we are calling home for now. Tyler started a show here a couple weeks ago and is scheduled to be here til at least November (so their saying...) So the Residence Inn is our place of residence. Ty has been here before on a show, so he knows where to go and what to see. So Saturday we went to check out one the plantation homes here, it was amazing to see how they lived hundreds of years ago.

The plantation we went to was called "the Haumus House".

The trees are over 500 years old and gigantic in size! The landscaping was gorgeous and so well manicured. And the house was amazing in detail and decor for even this era, let alone the 1700's.

We also drove across a lake to New Orleans where Tyler's dad is currently working on a show.

What an interesting town. We rode the trolley- which is the oldest in the country.

And headed down to the famous "Bourbon Street" where the party happens.

What a filthy place! The whole street stinks, and there are strippers standing in doorways trying to lure you in. Drunks all over the place slurring and stumbling.

It was pretty interesting to say the least. We did hear great music (this guys left cheek, not his right- just his left would get HUGE when he would play, it was so awesome.) and ate some great food,

so there is good points in that town too. To say it is hot here is a HUGE understatement. It is in the high 90's with 100% humidity!

You open the door and feel like you're walking into a sauna. it's intense! We are having a great time here so far, and keeping ourselves well entertained! I will try to keep you all updated on our fun down here in Luzeeana!!

Things you learn...

2010-03-12T15:02:00.007-07:00

I have always lived in Utah. Always, so Utah is what I know. I know four distinct seasons. I know my mountains. I know how far away a city is when I hear the name of it. I know where to go to find the perfect caramel steamer. I know when I go to a common store in Utah, chances are I'm going to run in to someone know. California is so new. So different. I've learned so much living here.

I've learned that people are very confused on their seasons because it rarely gets below 60 degrees. It hits 59 and people are rippin out their Ugg boots, scarfs and winter woolies. Me... open toes and short sleeves! Yay! Warmth in winter months! Loving it.
I've learned that every thing moves slower in California. The traffic, the garbage man, the line at the post office, Everything.
I learned that my TomTom was the best gift I have ever been given! He has literally become my best friend! We go every where together. We go shopping, to the salon, and to get groceries. I would be so lost without him:)
I've learned that people are seriously addicted to Starbucks. There is one on EVERY corner sometimes two or three in one shopping center. It's incredible.
I've learned that everyone, and I mean everyone has a personalized licence plate,
they think they are so clever with things like "czycady" or "7jensens" and "spermom" (these are all actual plates I've seen.... awesome!)
It's taking me a minute to get use to it here, somethings are harder than others, the weather took about a day to fall in love with. Being away from my family is taking a little longer. Being married and waking up to my cute husband everyday was instantaneous. The traffic, I dont think anyone gets use to that!

It's not hard to love California. There's not a whole lot not to love. The people here keep you well entertained.

I'm loving it here!

The Honeymoon....

2010-02-08T14:41:00.025-07:00

Two days after our wedding, we were off to Mexico!

Six fabulous weeks of sunshine, sand and surf!

Forty days of hammock naps, sunset beaches, and incredible pina coladas!
(oh, and a hot surfer husband:) The days were hot, the food was amazing and the company couldn't have been better.

Have you ever had the coke in Mexico? It's one of the most amazing thing there.
Did we buy mexican wrestling masks and act out a match? Of course!

We may have had one fight with a sting ray....But if that's the one thing we had to endure for a month and a half of bliss....
We'll take it. We had an absolutely fabulous time!

The Wedding....

2009-11-12T10:23:00.008-07:00

The weather: 72 and sunny...
The food: very good...

The ring bearer: so funny....

The atmosphere: vibrant and breath taking....

The company: fantastic...

The groom: Very, very handsome...
The ladybugs: everywhere....

The flower girls: adorable...
The day: so perfect!

So, it's true!

2009-09-10T09:51:00.005-06:00

You know that dashingly handsome surfer boy that I have a huge crush on and I'm always bragging about?

Well I get to talk about him forever now! You know why.....

WE ARE GETTING MARRIED!!!!

It's true, as of October 17th he is all mine! I'm so excited!!!

This has been the cause of my three month posting absence,

But I'm sure you understand, right? Yay!

Running?

2009-06-10T13:52:00.004-06:00

I committed to running a 5k.

I don't know why I have done this.

I don't run.

Now I know what your thinking, your thinking "everyone says they are not a runner, and really they turn out to be totally fine."

Well- your wrong.

When I say I'm not a runner, I mean, like- at all!

I don't think I've ran since the 4th grade Hershey Track Meet

Where you can bet I came in dead last.

But I'm one who believes in second chances.

So, me and running are going to give it a second go.

My mom showed me this great path by our house that is made just for runners.

It's full of adorable hand written and encouraging signs to keep you motivated.

They must know you need them after being passed by 70 year old women.

So- it's the title of "RUNNER" I'm trying to achieve.

I hear people say they fall in love with running.

That "when the endorphins kick in it's amazing!"

Well I would love to experience that.

As soon as I get past the side cramps, heavy wheezing and sore thighs.....

Wish me luck.

L to the A

2009-05-20T13:46:00.015-06:00

It was around 11:30pm on Wednesday night and I'm talking to the surfer when I hear

"Go check your email, I just bought your ticket to L.A.."

WHAT? SERIOUSLY?!?!

(yeah- he really is that spontaneous/adorable!) I was so EXCITED I could barely contain myself! And so it was a weekend in Los Angeles for me, and it was fantastic! This hot chick also known as my B.F.F. was sweet enough to chaperon me to the airport. Now, I have to tell you, I'm not usually one to freak out about a national epidemic. I don't usually over react to the news telling me everyone is going to die due to SWINE FLU! But when I'm riding on a crowded bus from LAX to Van Nuys and the dude in front of me is holding a Mexico passport, sneezed twice and coughing..... Lets just say this is how I spent the bus ride.

I learned what REAL rush hour traffic is all about and spent a great amount of time in it. It's awesome.

( please sense the sarcasm!)

I got to meet the RETRO FISH and learned quickly that you never call a dudes board "cute".

And even though our day at the beach was a little cooler than we hoped for....

(Thanks alot "June Gloom")

it was a fantastic time!

Brown paper packages, tied up with strings...

2009-05-08T11:49:00.008-06:00

I read a list today about favorite things, and I realized I have a lot of things listed under "favorite". Things that immediately put a smile on my face simply by happening.

Favorites--

- Reading my old journals. I was so dramatic as a child!
- Cold soft sheets on summer nights.
- The way your hair smells after driving with the windows down.
- Acoustic anything.
- Having your best friend call right when you need it.
- The taste of a cherry tomato as is bursts in her mouth.
- Smell of fresh cut grass.
- The feeling you have right before you jump out of an airplane.
- Overcasty, gray skied Sundays.
- Everything yellow.
- The way I feel in a great pair of heels.
- Writing my secrets in foggy windows and watching them disappear.
- The way Mayzie tilts her head when I ask her a question.
- Long, well needed drives.
- Grapefruits. Every single thing about them.
- The sweet smell of puppy breath.
- Hearing a song you haven't in years, and still being able to sing every word.

Sometimes I think we need a reminder that it's the little things that make the biggest difference.

Little things that make life that much sweeter!

2009-04-30T14:42:00.006-06:00

It's getting to be that time of year.

You know- where the days start to get loooong....

The air starts to get warm,

the sun doesn't want to sleep,

And being inside doesn't sound like much fun.

So instead of blogging I have playing.

Sorry about that. But I just cant help myself.

I'm one of those people,

who will take the good time

over the routine every time!

So I've been doing random things, like shooting guns.

And lovin' on these little cheeks!

Instead of blogging.

Fun things,

like spending great time with the fam...

And putting together adorable
BUBBLE GUM PINK
bicycles, to enjoy in the sunshine.

So please forgive me for my extended absence.
I have just been a little preoccupied.

Basking in the sunshine and forcing
Mayzie to play the role of ToTo.Having a few girls nights.

But mostly spending every minute with this cute dude.....

Can you really blame a girl??

Have you Heard?!

2009-04-03T09:35:00.014-06:00

So, do you know my good friendLovely Laura? What? You don't? Well she is pretty amazing to say the least. And She is throwing the party of all parties tomorrow night! She is part of a organization called MOTHERS WITHOUT BORDERS where they help mothers and daughters in Zambia Africa. Saturday April 4, 2009 from 5:30pm-8:30pm, girls and gals of all ages will flood the McKay Event Center at UVU, for a night of pampering and purchasing, hoping for a chance to win one of the many fabulous prizes that will be raffled off throughout the event! And all the proceeds from this fantastic event will go straight to MOTHERS WITHOUT BORDERS! So if you are looking for a fun night out tomorrow with your girls, this is it! There will by lots of fun giveaways, booths, food and a sweet prom package for high school girls! It's going to be a great time and, you get to help people in Africa simply by enjoying yourself! YAY!
So spread the word!!

Lets see how well you know your history, you tell me where I went....

2009-02-07T13:31:00.012-07:00

I took a vacation.

A well needed six days off.
I flew on airplanes, slept on airplanes, puked on airplanes....

I ate great food!

I did some fantastic shopping-

I stayed eleven floors up in a pent house suite with a great view!And saw incredible things.

Including the perfect tourist.
And a monument dedicated to our first president.

I prayed where famous people have prayed, in 300 year old churches
I walked on the oldest street in America

And stood in the room where our declaration was signed.

I witnessed a famous crack that rang it's way to history.

And had my first ride on a subway.

I ran where famous people have run,

And spent four hours in a museum of art that takes your breath away.
and I met the stallion. Yeah he's Italian.

And I had a great time. A really, really great time!

With really, really great company!

I already miss that company.

But it was good to know that I was missed

A Worldly Place...

2009-01-17T10:07:00.008-07:00

We spent the evening in Park City last night.

The Film Festival is happening.

Yeah- the ones where all the famous peeps come and pretend they don't mind the cold.
Main Street = shut down!

Traffic = ridiculous.
So we went to World Market!

That place makes me so happy!

Tell me where else you can find the valentine pasta, right next to the 300 dollar giraffes?And the wall full of fabulous fizzies?

It really is a happy place!

Who needs celebs when you have this place?

Happy Day!

2009-01-17T09:50:00.002-07:00

Nie is back!

Such happy news, now go and be inspired by her words.

A combination of things.

2009-01-07T14:08:00.014-07:00

There is something we do in our family. Something that was routine long before I came into this world. Something that is so simple, yet brings so much happiness. Sunday morning drives have been happening my whole life. There is something about the morning on a Sunday. It's different that other mornings. It's peaceful. It's happy. And when you combine

a Sunday morning,

a beautiful canyon,

a hot drink,

good tunes,

fresh white powder,

and great company

you have what we like to call, a winning combination.

So glad you came up Leigh Esta! Love you!

I'm ready.

2009-01-06T11:12:00.002-07:00

2009: Blog more. Slack less.

This is my goal. I'm ready to get back on blogging track.

MY LIFE: coming soon to a blog near you!

A Gift...From me, to you!

2008-12-19T15:55:00.002-07:00

My Thankfuls....

2008-12-01T21:01:00.017-07:00

thanks·giv·ing: noun; 1:the act of giving thanks 2: a prayer expressing gratitude 3: a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness.

I'm thankful for......

Road trips with dogs, that are convinced they can FLY.

Cache Valley squeaky cheese. I LOVE me some cheese curds!!

Portable size electronic devices that keep eight year old entertained on four hour drives!

A fabulous sister in law who does everyone in the family's hair even while on vacation.

(Including the flying dog's. See that foil hiding in there.... it's processing! Ha!....no this is not a regular procedure.)

For Lori, and her ridiculous amount of scrapbooking supplies that enabled us to make these adorable place cards!

A handsome brother who loves me!

864 layers of jello!!

THIS!!

Kristi's angry face in this picture because there was a ridiculous line for the movie.

Red fingernail polish. And moments like the one when this picture was taken, when you laugh so hard you think your going to pee your pants.

A smart ipod that knows how to pick great road trip music.

d. all of the above.

Hope your holiday was fantastic!
Loves!

Dear Anonymous:

2008-11-24T17:08:00.002-07:00

I wish I could put into words how incredibly grateful I am for what you did for me. But there are not enough words. I was brought to tears. In fact I sobbed at your gracious gift. I am truly touched by your act of selflessness, and hope with all of my heart that one day I will be able to do the same for one in need. Thank you for your caring words, and touching testimony. You are an amazing example to me. Do you know what a true blessing, and answer you were to my prayers? I hope you do. But more than anything, I hope you know how deeply appreciative I am for what you did for me. Thank you. From the very deepest pocket of my heart, thank you.

All of my love,
Carlie

Karma and I had a fight, and karma won.

2008-11-12T14:35:00.004-07:00

So long since I have blogged. It's sad really. I have had a serious run of bad luck. I remember one of my very first posts I did, It talked about how when it rains in my world, it pours. And it is still so true. They (whoever "they" are) say that bad things come in threes. When one awful thing happens, it's not bad enough. You must have two more to remind how bad it can really get. I hate "they". But instead of focusing on the bad and the sad, I'm going to do my best to think about the upside of this garbage dump of a mess I have been given. With every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, right? I believe that, with everything that happens. For every bad thing, there is an equal and opposite good thing. Loose your job, find a better one. Break your car, learn why family is so important. It's like the law of attraction. When you need something, put it out to the universe and watch how it finds it's way back to you. I'm not 100% on the upside of my bad situation yet, but I am on my way. I can see the light at the end of a very discouraging tunnel. It's happen before. I have been on both sides of that crazy tunnel. and I dare say that 99% of the time, the good is so worth the bad. Better situations present them selves, and somehow it works out. And it seems like a good lesson is always learned somewhere along the way as well. Simple lessons, like don't buy gas at Maverick. Treat others the way you want to be treated. And never forget how great it is to have a close family to help you when you need it. Simple. And all so true.

Which witch is which?

2008-10-13T11:06:00.003-06:00

We were quite the sight,
As we pulled up our tights
And looked suddenly mean
As our skin turned green.
"Arrive as a witch!" Was what we were told
The task was tricky, but not too bold.
We wondered and thought, and plotted and stewed,
And finally the perfect look was brewed!
A tuck and a nip, a snip and a stitch-
A ha! now we have the perfect witch.
the size was huge when it came to the nose,
and it matched just perfect with the curl of the toes.
A hairy spider, there it sat
right on the peak of that pointy hat.
When we finally touched down from the flight of the broom,
we heard cackles and chants as we walked in the room.
A house full of witches we beheld in our sight,
the attire and teeth were quite the fright!
The night was spent in laughter and stew
It was a sight to be seen, this much is true.....

Phoenix!

2008-10-09T12:57:00.004-06:00

My dad flew me out to see him for my birthday. So I left on Friday and came home on Sunday. (the same day i went skydiving:)It was a short trip, but so worth it! I have always been my daddy's girl, and even though I turned 22, in his eyes I'm still 6 and that's just fine with me! my whole life we have had a bond that is kind of unexplainable. We are so much alike. We get each other. And I know, that no matter what, I can count on him for anything. It's a fun thing to have a dad who calls me to just remind me he loves me more, that I can count on for a shopping buddy when ever I'm in town. And who is over protective to the point that it's funny. The night I got to Phoenix my dad made me my favorite sandwich and had filled the fridge with my favorite cream soda. As I sit eating and enjoying, we were making a plan of what we should do the next day, when he threw out the idea of going to Tombstone I jumped on it! It was only 2 hours away and sounded like fun. So the next morning, away we went......
Our first stop when we get to that amazing town was of course, "Big Nose Kate's" as we were sitting there enjoying some lunch, this guy came and grabbed me, put me on the piano and took a picture. It was funny!
This is the Bird Cage Theater. It was fun to see, not only was it a theater, but also a saloon, gambling hall and brothel. They had the original table and chips that Wyatt Earp played with. Pretty sweet. That is the same hearse that carried all the famous people you hear about. (oh- and a sweet picture of my dad! haha)
We had a great time. Tombstone is a neat place. We saw a gun fight too which was pretty entertaining. And made all the great stops like Crystal Palace and The Oriental. Thanks for the fun trip dad, hope to see you soon!

Love you infinity....

Who said six was an unlucky number?

2008-09-23T11:42:00.010-06:00

Skydiving: noun: the sport of jumping from an airplane at a moderate altitude and executing various body maneuvers before pulling the rip cord of a parachute.

I have a confession.
I am addicted to falling out of airplanes.
the rush.
the suit.
the 14,000 feet.
the adrenaline.
It is an experience that is so hard to put into words. It's a float not a fall. It's breathtaking, literally. And it is, hands down, the most amazing thing I have ever experienced.

It all began two years ago on my birthday, Amber and I had talked forever about how we wanted to skydive, it was a lot of talk, not a whole lot of action. But then, on the day before my twentieth birthday it was happening. We got rain out that day, but would were determined to not let it get us down. We were back. We jumped. We fell. We loved it! And so the addiction began. From that day on it was become a tradition to jump every year on her birthday, and on mine. Sunday was jump #6. Chase, Shane, Me, Amber, Kelly and Dayne. We all took the plunge. They were all first timers except Amber and I, and they too, are all addicted to the rush. There is always a brief moment when you are hanging your toes over the edge of a open door of an airplane at 14,000 feet that you think to yourself "Am I out of my freaking mind?!" And then it happens, the nudge, coming from the guy stapped to your back forcing you to fall, that sends you threw that open door. And as you fall doing flips threw the air, seeing the plane drift away, your cheeks fill with wind, your eyes begin the water, your limbs fly freely threw the air, it is then that it hits you. This is incredible! Nothing you will ever do in your life will give you the same sense of thrill as that moment, and you fall in love with the fall....

ABC!

2008-09-23T11:03:00.004-06:00

Kristi tagged me.....

ABC........
A- Attached or Single? Single!
B- Best friend? Amber Marie and my mama
C-Cake or Pie? hhmm..... probably pie.
D-Day of Choice? Sunday, very chill happy day.
E-Essential item? studio fix
F-Favorite color? Yellow!
G-gummy bears or gummy worms? Both!
H-hometown? Payson
I-Indulgences? Cream soda
J- January or July? July, it's closer to fall time
K-Kids? nope. Adorable dog though.
L-Life is incomplete without? memories
M-Marriage date? has not approached yet...
N-Number of siblings? 2 Brothers 1 Sister
O-Oranges or apples? Oranges!
P-Phobias or fears? um- not that I can think of?
Q-Quotes? "We are going to need you to stop wearing tiaras to work...."
R- Reason to smile? Longboarding the canyon
S- Season? Fall. Love everything about it!
T-tag 8 people-Whoever wants to do this!
U-Unknown Fact? I always wished I had a southern accent
V-Very Favorite store? MAC counter, Forever 21, Victoria Secret, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory....
W- Worst habit? BITING MY NAILS!
X- X-Ray or Ultrasound? Haven't had either.
Y- Your favorite food?Mashed potatoes, chicken parmesan
Z- Zodiac? Virgo

four hats and a cake.

2008-09-19T13:29:00.027-06:00

Hats. That was the theme on my birthday this year, I received 4 of them and loved every single one. Each has a great story attached to it!
Hat #1:

My birthday celebration began on my birthday eve, Shane took me out for a fantastic birthday dinner. He would not tell me where we were going, or what we were doing, just to" dress up and bring a jacket" so...

7:12pm Shane arrives at my house. Picks me up and we are headed up Provo Canyon
7:36pm We are seated for a delicious dinner at the Sundance resort.
8:24pm We finish dinner and our waitress brings our check. Along with the check is a gift. a beautiful gift! She hands it to me and simply says, "happy birthday!" I look at Shane, who had this all planed out, I open the gift and there sits the cutest hat I have ever seen. Truly, an adorable beanie, right on top of an adorable scarf. the best part of all, he made it. Yes he made this hat. I tried it on, the waitress comments on how cute it is, I inform her that he made it and she was in disbelief! "I thought it was bought for sure" were her words. She is impressed. I am impressed, and CAN NOT stop smiling! How personal, how thoughtful. I love it!
9:37pm We are sitting on a ski lift for the moon lit lift ride. beautiful! The moon is huge, the view is the breath taking, the hat on my head is perfect, and I love it!

Hat #2:

7:52am I wake up on my actual birthday to Elvis singing me happy birthday, he has done it every year, my whole life, and it is so funny! (love you dad!)
8:23am Arrive at work. I am surrounded by all my co-workers singing to me at all different keys, it was awesome! Robyn, brings this amazing birthday hat that she has made and puts it on my head. It is fantastic!

Hat #3:

10:42am I look up from my desk to see my cute sister in law in front of my desk. She says, "I need to you to hold the door open so I can bring in your present, but you have to close your eyes!" I open my eyes to see the most fantastic birthday cake! It's huge, and has a flamingo on it! A flamingo! And feathers, and buttons! It was a happy cake! And her and my mama had also made me a birthday hat! I put it on, and I love it!

11:12am Kristi and I arrive at her salon to do my hair, (PS- love having a sister in law that doubles as a beautician!) We spend three hours on this project, having a great time! She rocks at what she does!

Hat #4:

5:52pm PF Changs is the restaurant of choice for birthday dinner. Those lettuce wraps rock my world.
6:16pm My bestest friend Amber Marie arrives. With hat in hand! Adorable hat, PINK, and perfect! I wear it through dinner. Chase is embarrassed.
6:55pm We finish dinner with a wonderful chocolate cake. Compliments of Toddy, Topped with berries and what Chase refers to as "gangster sauce" (no one knows what that means....) and a mini strawberry cheesecake with a candle, compliments of Changs.

10:12pm The birthday comes to a close. It was a great day. full of happy hats. Fun hats. Great cake. Great Elvis, and wonderful people. I return to the hat in which it all began, and we cruised the canyon on longboards.

It was a very happy day!

22.

2008-09-11T14:00:00.004-06:00

In six days I turn twenty two. When I was little, I remember thinking that twenty two was so old! But I have now come to the conclusion that twenty two is a completely pointless age. There are some birthdays that you cant wait for because they actually have great things that come along with them. Like when you're little and you cant wait to turn eight because that's when you get to be baptized and it's your special day. Then there is sixteen. You just cant wait to be sixteen. How fabulous are you now that you can drive and cruise main with your friends, and look super hot driving your mom's car? Next is eighteen. eighteen is great because that's the age that you can throw at your parents when they tell you that you cant do something. "I'm eighteen years old, you cant tell me what to do! I'm an adult!" And then they throw you a "when you live my house you will follow my rules" and you realize, hey- I can move out now! Next is twenty one. Twenty one rocks for obvious reason. Yes I can go to Vegas now and gamble and no one can say anything about it!! So then you go to Vegas with your I.D. in hand just begging for someone to card you- and not one single person does. bummer. But you're still of age so it rocks. But twenty two? Twenty two? Nothing rocks about twenty two. just the up hill battle of getting older. No more meaningful birthdays. No more looking forward to a fun age. Nope- just the sad realization that you are getting older and no one cares. I say boo to twenty two...
Amber and I in Vegas 3 months after my 21st birthday. Nope we were not asked to see our I.D.'s . Not even once.

hope.

2008-09-08T10:57:00.006-06:00

A couple of weeks ago I read a story, a tragic story about a horrible plane crash. Since the day that I read that story I have not been able to get it out of my mind. I think about it constantly and the huge effect it has had on the family and the followers of those who have heard it. The story of a wonderful woman and her adorable husband that she simply refers to as Mr. Nielson. On August 16th Stephanie and Christian Nielson were flying by private plan from New Mexico to their home in Ariziona when the plane went down. The instructor that they were flying with passed away, but the Nielson survived. But they are not ok. 30% of Christians body was burned and 80% of Stephanie's body. The recovery that they face is huge. The medical bills are in the millions. Stephanie, also known as Nie-Nie started a blog in 2005 to keep in touch with her family here in Utah. Even before this accident she had a huge following on her blog. She writes about raising her 4 children and the blessing of being a mother. She writes about the love she has for her husband and you can hear the love in her words. When I read it I was brought to tears. You can see what a fun mom she was. She writes about seeing her girls twirling in the living room so she moved all the furniture out of the room, cranked the music and let them dance. She writes notes to her Mr. Nielson about how she misses him so much while he is away on business. She makes a back to school feast for her girls, with crown and decorated tables- followed by a fashion show of new school clothes. Their story was recently published in New York Times and has had an effect on so many people. Her sister lives here in Provo Utah and has taken in her four children. She also has a blog called c jane run where she writes about updates of the Nielson and the struggle of it all. Stephanie had a tradition every year on everyones birthday, she would have everyone attach a wish to a balloon and send it up to heaven. This has caught on. There has been people all over the WORLD that have attached well wishes for the Nielsons to a balloon and sent them to heaven.

This picture is just from the people in Utah. I don't know why I have been so pulled in to this story but it really has touched me. I check almost daily for updates and new posts on them. I feel like I know them and their family even though I don't. I pray for them and truly hope that they can recover. I'm not the only one who has been pulled in by this story. There have been so many people that write about what a huge affect Nie-Nie has had on them. The way her blog gave them a whole different view on parenting. How awesome it is that one person can touch so many people by living their life the way the should. And seeing so much good in life. This is their cute family just months before the accident. It is so neat to see the way that their family has come togther to help with their children and organize donations. There is nothing in this world as great at family. I with this family the very best. I hope they can recover quickly.
(If you would like to help the Nielson's you can make donations at www.nierecovery.com.)

reasons unknown.

2008-09-02T11:12:00.005-06:00

I have always said that every thing in this life happens for a reason. And I have always believed it. It has always made sense to me that there is deeper meaning to our actions than just doing them. Maybe its a sixth sense. Maybe it's serendipity, of fate. Divine intervention. Whatever it is, I believe in it. I believe that it happens because it has. It does. I may not know it at the moment that it is happening, but there is always a time, even if its weeks down the road, that you look at a situation, and see the result for it happening. You can see the good that that one encounter, conversation, argument or run in has brought. It is the simple things in our life, like running into someone you have know most of your life after not seeing them for so long and having it be just what you needed at the time. There is a reason. Having them do a simple action or saying a simple phrase that brings you a tiny bit of peace that you need. There is a reason. Meeting a new person and feeling like you have known them forever. There is a reason. There really is. We may not know it now. we may not know for some time, but we always find out. And when we do. It's an ah-ha moment. When you can simply say, I knew that happened for a reason. I look so forward to those moments.....

8 Things....

2008-08-28T10:39:00.004-06:00

Ok- So Sarah tagged me. Lets see how this turns out.....

8 Things I am passionate about...
-Wentworth Miller from Prison Break
-Honey balsamic chicken
-MAC #7 lashes
-Bubble baths
-Rocky Votolato
-Down comforters
-Perfectly roasted marshmallows
-Really long drives
8 Words or Phrases I say often...
- I know right?
-Yo Yo Yiggidy Yo (Juno anyone?)
-Mountain Land Design, this is Carlie....
-Oh my gosh good!
-Mayzie- come here.
-Hi friend!
-Doesn't Cafe Rio sound great?
-Oh man, Norman just slimmed me. Sick!
8 Things I want to do before I die...
-Finish getting skydive certified and jump solo
-Get married on a fabulous beach somewhere
-Live is Greece
-Have some adorable kid-o's
-Learn to speak another language, something hot like Italian....?
-Go scuba diving
-Learn how to eat right
-Learn to play an instrument
8 Things I pray for...
-Chase to win the lato
-To find a fantastic guy
-Gas prices to go down
-My mama
-Patience...
-Help in making the right choices
-My loved ones to be kept safe from harm
-My family
8 Things I have learned...
-People are willing to spend insane amounts of money on their kitchen
-I can make a pretty sweet birthday hat
-Little kids will do anything for a capri sun and a cookie
-Sometimes things not working out, works out for the better
-I really love craisins
-Happiness can be found in the smallest details
-There is never a reason to treat someone badly
-A hippo can open its mouth wide enough to fit a 4 ft tall child inside
8 people to tag...
-Emily Finch
-AmberMarie
-Aunt Mel
-Lori
-Jenn Jones
-Nikki Hanson/Davis
-My Aunt Kristen
-Abby Anderson (So she will update her blog:))

Thanks Sarah! This was fun!

26 Things...

2008-08-21T09:01:00.010-06:00

So- I stole this from Emily's blog because I thought it was such a great idea! (Thanks Em!) It's Chase and Kristi's birthdays this month, just five days apart, Kristi will be 24, and Chase will be 26, so I thought I would give you 26 reasons they are so great......

1. They let me and my dog live with them! How generous:)

2. Kristi is a great cook, and makes dinner all the time.

3. They love their dogs even when Norman is slobbery and looks like this....
4. Chase is very generous and would give you his last dollar just to help.

5. You wont ever miss a UFC fight as long as you know them, they host a party every fight!

6. Kristi watches stupid TV shows with me every week.

7. Chase loves to have crazy facial hair.
8. They love their nieces and nephews, and always do fun things for them.

9. Kristi does fabulous hair, and always reminds me when I need my hair colored:)

10. Chase taught himself Spanish and uses it to order people cow tongues to eat without them knowing, and thinks that it's so funny.

11. Kristi taught me how to crochet and makes awesome hats, blankets and the cutest baby booties you have ever seen!

12. They are both very very funny, and have great comedic timing.

13. Kristi has beautiful eyes and FANTASTIC lashes!

14. Chase loves to spoil Kristi and always goes the extra mile to show her his love.

15. They are best friends and love to be together.

16. Kristi goes to all Chases softball games and cheers him on.

17. They always go on fun getaways and take time to enjoy life.

18. Chase is a great artist and can carve amazing things in trees.

19. They bring fun every where they go, if not with games, then with their personalities.

20. They will be great parents someday, if they would just have kids instead of dogs!

21. They have more friends than anyone I know.

22. They both have great style, Chase shops like a girl!

23. We are all sure Chase is half troll due to the amount of hair on his feet.

24. Kristi believes in dessert after every meal! Including breakfast.
25. Everyone hopes that one of them gets your name for Christmas, because they give you the BEST presents!

26. They are both really happy, really great people!!

I hope you both have a very, very happy birthday! I love you so much!! Thanks for being you!

Sunshine and Summer Time

2008-08-14T09:33:00.006-06:00

When I think of seven peaks, I think of my high school summers. When me and my friends would pile in the red jeep with the top off and and spend the whole day just hanging out in the sun and the water, scooping out guys, and lathering on the tanning oil! Those were the days- when you didn't have to worry about anything but your tan and your sun bleached hair! We had some really great times at that place. A group of us were there on Tuesday and had so much fun! All the fun of the summer and the peaks came right back!

Tristen loved the lily pads! It was so funny to watch them all try to get across.

This is me on the free fall. My mom missed the picture the first time and made me go do it again! It was pretty funny.

This is what it's all about!!

Yay for sunshine and summer time!

3D Madness!

2008-08-06T09:01:00.003-06:00

Entertaining Movie: Check.
Things flying at our face: Check.
Awesome pictures of us making funny faces: check.

My mom and I took Tristen to see 'Journey To The Center Of The Earth' in 3D. Not only was the movie awesome- but we got to keep these awesome glasses!

50 random facts.....

2008-07-21T15:39:00.009-06:00

1. Rides up the canyon are my source of therapy.
2. I love rice crispy treats.
3. I have been shot in the head with a bb gun two different times.
4. I have had the same best friend since 4th grade.
5. I hate milk!
6. Never cooked til I started my current job, now I love to cook.
7. I have been sky diving 5 times and am getting skydive certified.
8. I currently love all things yellow.
9. I would move to Florida tomorrow if I thought I could live without my mama.
10. I still love to swing at the playground.
11. Autumn is my favorite time of year.
12. I have a secret wish to design wedding invitations for a living.
13. I strongly believe that my mom knows me better than anyone.
14. I LOVE lemonade. Strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, mango.......
15. I hate Chinese food.
16. I love Oprah. I change my TV at work over at 4 o'clock everyday to watch her!
17. I believe that you make time for the things you want to make time for.
18. I think "Planet Earth" is the best TV series ever created.
19. I love to read. I get obsessed, and wont put the book down til it's done.
20. I have had the nick name "Bug" since I was little. My dad and Chet still call me that.
21. I can't remember one day of my life that my toenails weren't painted. Seriously.
23. I will eat the dough, over the cookie, any day.
24. I have to make a daily, valiant effort to not speed while driving.
25. When I was little, I had the hairest arms you have ever seen.
26. I believe that good music can change a persons life.
27. I'm ok with being my dad's "baby girl" the rest of my life.
28. I can sing every song from "The Sound of Music".
29. I love to floss my teeth.
30. I think the new Willy Wonka with Johnny Depp is one of the best movies ever.
31. I will take caramel over chocolate, every time.
32. growing up, we slept on the tramp every night in the summer.
33. I truly believe a bubble bath can fix anything.
34. When I was little I wanted to be a rodeo queen when I grew up.
35. I have never been able to sleep if there is a full moon. (Werewolf?)
36. I was convinced that the clown from "IT" lived under my moms bed most of my childhood.
37. I believe that traditions are something that should never be broken.
38. I always feel like I'm doing something unnatural when I eat eggs. They kinda freak me out.
39. I believe in love at first sight.
40. I think mice, although creepy, are very cute.
41. I can quote "Finding Nemo" from start to finish. Great movie!
42. I wear false lashes daily.
43. I cant whistle without my fingers.
44. I have always wished my name was Charlie.
45. Not one single day goes by I don't think about Seth and Cassie.
46. I always sing in the shower!
47. My guilty pleasure is perezhilton.com I check it daily.
48. I believe that happiness is something to be made, not found.
49. I only wear shoes when I have to. I love to go barefoot.
50. I honestly believe, that everything in life, happens for a reason.

Summer Time!!

2008-07-09T09:32:00.005-06:00

The best summer treat without a doubt has got to be the

ORANGE

BLAST

SMOOTHIE

from Nordstrom Cafe. If you have never had one, the time is now for you to try it! They are fresh, and fabulous! And their whipped cream will rock your world!

Worth The Trip

2008-07-09T09:09:00.004-06:00

My grandpa Earl is so great. We stopped by and saw him this past weekend on our way home from Mesquite and I'm so glad we did. He is such a happy person, and makes me so happy every time I see him. He had had surgery just a week before and was doing great. Always such a trooper! I wish I could see more of him. It's hard when we live so far away, but when I do get to see him it's always so great. He is just the kind of person that always knows how to make me smile! I have always kinda been my grandpa's girl. And that has always been just fine with me! Love you Grandpa!

Nothin' But A Good Time...

2008-07-07T12:20:00.005-06:00

POISON! Yes, Amber and I went to Poison! And it was fabulous!!! I don't think there is anything in this whole world than can give you the same amazing feeling, as live, loud rock n' roll! (I am my mothers child!) And this concert was no exception. It was kind of like we went back in time. We saw some sweet mullets, awesome perms ratted at least 6 inches off the head, lots of black leather jackets, pretty sure everyone there was a chain smoker, and I'm so glad all the fifty year old women didn't throw away their denim mini skirts from the 80's! Thank goodness for that! It really was so fun though, the music was great and the old guy in front of us head banging and singing every word to every song made the whole show! POISON!

This is him! The old guy! Amber looks high, but I promise she's not. I look like I have a lazy eye! I love it!
Now you can watch this sweet video clip, and pretend like you're there with us! Enjoy!

Strawberries, clowns, and scowls....

2008-06-24T14:28:00.007-06:00

This past weekend was Strawberry Days! That of course meant that Amber and I had to put on out boots and hats, eat way to many cups of strawberries and cream, nochos, rodeo hamburgers and candy bars, and take ridiculous photos! All the things we rock at! It was a fun weekend!

That lady hated us! This was the first time all night that she moved her face, or showed any kind of emotion! (I wish I were kidding!)

California!

2008-06-24T12:49:00.007-06:00

We had a fabulous time in California! I wished it would have been just a little warmer, but all in all it was a great time! Driving day one! Driving day two! (I love that they look exactly the same!) The melting pot! That dessert was amazing!
Notice how Chase and Chet aren't in this picutre? We asked some dude to take our picture and he get about three feet away and snapped it, cutting of the boys! HA It was kinda funny! Sea World!! We were in the "Soak Zone" and yes, it owned up to its name! I love sandy toes! Isn't this amazing! I took this while on the beach! But we had that exact same view from our condo balcony! It was fantastic! On our first night there, our condo wasn't ready yet so we stayed in a hotel. I had a room with my dad and Lori, while Chet, Chase and Kristi were in the room next to us. Now, I remember my dad snoring when I was little, but I never remembered it like this! I had been asleep for about 20 minutes when I suddenly hear the strangest sound I have ever heard! I hear it once, and thought "what was that?" Then again and again and again, and I realize, THAT IS COMING FROM MY DAD!! I tried to put a pillow over my head, didn't work. Told Lori to turn up the TV, didn't work. Try fingers in ears, while humming, with pillow over my head, still didn't work. Yes, it was that loud! So I call Chet, tell him to move over cause I'm coming to sleep in his bed! So, I get to their room and I'm explaining how insanely loud his snoring is. We lough about it and go to bed. It wasn't until the next night in our condo that we were in the living room and my dad had already gone to bed, his door shut that they hear it. Yeah- through the wall, that they finally got it! It was crazy, so needless to say- we had to get it on camera! Lori- don't you dare tell him, or show him that this is on here, he would kill me! Sorry dad! But, you have to hear it to believe it!

Old friends- Good reminders

2008-06-19T10:12:00.002-06:00

When I first moved out I met a very amazing person. My first roommate I ever had, she was from Alaska and was here for some personal healing. Today I stumbled onto her blog threw someone elses and I was so touched to read what she had chosen to base her blog on. When we lived together, I was able to take the discussions with her and be there when she was baptised into our church. She was so excited. She was a great influence to me. She really helped me to become a better person. And as i read her blog today I was able to see what a great testimony she has gained. It is amazing to me, to see what a huge influence our church and beliefs can make in a persons life, and I am so grateful that I was able to be apart of that. To be able to witness someones life change for the better. It was a huge faith builder for me when the missionaries showed up on our door that day, because we had just been talking about them the day before. Whitney, if you ever read this, I hope you know how grateful I am to have been apart of that huge amazing change in your life. You a strong, beautiful person, and I know that you can over come that personal struggle that you fight. I'm so proud to call you my friend! Love You!

Mayzie Mae!

2008-06-05T15:01:00.006-06:00

So- I just realized that I never really talk about my cute little puppy on here! And I'm not really sure why- She is my favorite living thing in the whole world! She is always happy to see me, sad to see me go, hates me when I give her bathes, wakes me up every morning with a kiss on the nose, and dances for treats! I love her!

And she still is, and always will be cuter than all of your dogs! He He!

Beaches, pools and sand in my toes!

2008-05-30T10:05:00.002-06:00

Ever since I was a little girl I have had this deep love for swimming suits. Some girls loves shoes, some girls love sweaters, some have an obsession for jeans. Mine is swimwear. I don't know what it is that draws me to it. I think that it started when I was young because swimming suits meant summer- which meant hot, fabulous days in my second home mesquite! Where that's what you wear all day because it's to hot for clothes! Any time I walk into a store the first place i look without even knowing that it's happening is the wall of swimming suits. I have a whole drawer in my dresser that is full of them. Yet i can get enough! They symbolize so much. The lake, the tanning, the warmth, the beach, the sand, the water. In 13 days (but who's counting:)) we are headed to San Diego- which i cant wait for! So of course I thought I need a new swimsuit. I went to Victoria's Secret and they are having a huge sale! I kept putting suits in my "shopping bag" as they call it thinking I could filter out the ones I decide I didn't want. Well- I bought five. Yes, five! Five new swimming suits. And it felt great! You know when you see a good deal so you feel like you need to take advantage (Lori- those 8 pair of shoes!)That is what happened. I just kept thinking "Oh, what a great deal! Add it to the bag!" It is a happy day for me when I can lay in the sand on a fabulous beach with a fruity cold something in my hand, some sweet sunglasses on my face, great company next to me, and a hot new swimsuit! Nothing better! Yay for summer!

The Birthday Hat!

2008-05-13T15:04:00.007-06:00

My boss is the kinda guy that always goes the extra mile to make things fun and funny. So on his birthday on Tuesday I just had to make him a hat to wear all day long for a little humor! And him being the radical guy he is, did wear it all day! It was great!

That little sign says "Happy Birthday to ME" It turned out to be a really funny day!

Yay for Colbie!

2008-04-10T14:31:00.005-06:00

We took a well needed girls trip to St. George to see Colbie Caillat play at the Tuacahn last weekend. We had a great time! When we were at the concert we ran into my cousin Matt who I haven't seen in a year or so, that was fun! And then we saw three other girls I went to school with while we were there. It's a small world. It really was a great trip though. The concert was great!! She sounded jut as great live! And the warm weather really makes me look forward to spring here. (if it ever comes!)

We saw someone selling puppies on the side of road and Kristi insisted that we stoped and gave them some love!

What Punctuation Mark Are You?

2008-04-09T15:33:00.004-06:00

You Are a Dash

Your life is fast paced and varied. You are realistic, down to earth, and very honest.
You're often busy doing something interesting, and what you do changes quickly.

You have many facets to your personality, and you connect them together well.
You have a ton of interests. While some of them are a bit offbeat, they all tie together well.

You friends rely on you to bring novelty and excitement to their lives.
(And while you're the most interesting person they know, they can't help feeling like they don't know you well.)

You excel in: Anything to do with money

You get along best with: the Exclamation Point

Park City!

2008-03-19T18:25:00.005-06:00

I spent a fun weekend in Park City with my mom and sister in laws this past week. Kristi has a client who owns some amazing condos up there and was nice enough to let us stay. We had so much fun. When we got there my mom had got us all new matching pajamas and made us fun gift bags full of stuff for pedicures! So we spent the night doing our toes and playing a fun game. We laughed and played all night! Kristi and I were both sick while we were up there which was a bummer but we still had a great time! When we woke up we had hot chocolate and just hung out. They still have so much snow up there. It really was a great getaway weekend.

We had full intentions of getting in the hot tub til we saw if only fits two people! Ha Ha! So we all put our feet in anyway!

Me and Jori on our way home!

Dont worry, It's just rootbeer! I pretty much look like a guy on vacation though with my drink and remote on a couch!

Sin City!

2008-03-10T09:14:00.016-06:00

Amber turned 21 on Thursday! So we went to Vegas for the weekend. It was such a fabulous time! The next time your in Vegas I strongly recommend you tell everyone it's your birthday, even if it's not, you wouldn't believe all the free stuff we got just because it was her birthday!

We stayed at the Luxor one night, and ate at this fabulous place called the Burger Bar. It was great! They brought Amber a dessert that looked like a hamburger but it was actually a pastery with fruit and cream inside, I was so yummy!

We did a lot of shopping and hung out with Chet alot. I love him! He is so fun. We went to the human body exibit which was probably the most incredible thing I have ever seen. That place will honestly boggle your mind! We got a little crazy on the way home. I think it was the lack of sleep:) That's always the worst part of taking a trip is coming home! But all in all we really did have an amazing time! Happy Birthday Friend!

Away we go....

2008-03-04T15:51:00.020-07:00

I think one of the most important things in this world, is to have bestest friends that stick with you threw every and anything! There is a time in our lives when we decide that we need change, that we need to explore. And now is that time for me! As Amber and I were sitting at Starbucks two weeks ago I looked at her and said, "I'm ready. I'm ready to get away. To experience the world outside of Utah county. I need some chage Amber!!" She agreed that she was ready for a change too. Amber is an amazing make-up artist for MAC cosmetics and really excels at what she does. She has top sales in her region, she honestly rocks. So for her to say that she needed change too, caught me a little off gaurd. But she went on to tell me that her regional manager keeps bugging her to come to Denver. Denver? I'm wanted to get away from the cold! But as we talked it out and looked at the perks, (we litarally made a pro's and con's list!) of moving to Denver we were sold! So, it's to Denver for us! We are moving to Denver. In August. I cant even begin to tell you how excited I am! There is not one other person that I would rather move away with than Amber Marie! We stick together and that is important! So we are headed down in July to find our housing and me a job and get all the details worked out. We are so stoked about it. I cant wait to see what Denver brings! I told her she has to get a puppy so Mayzie has a friend, that is the only rule, and she is all for it. YAY FOR DENVER!!!

Spring Fever!

2008-02-20T16:27:00.003-07:00

So, I spent the weekend in Phoenix with my dad and it was so fabulous! We had such a great time! The weather was pretty much perfect and the shopping in that city is amazing! Saturday we spent the day at the Scottsdale mall and that was great! And that night we went to Mill street which is lined with shops and stores on both side and we took a horse and buggy ride around the street is was really fun. But they have all these birds in the trees that are so loud and obnoxious, they make you wan to scream! Sunday we went and saw the field that the superbowl was played on, that thing is amazing. It is set up on train tracks so they can roll in out of the indoor stadium to the outside of the building so it can get sunlight and water. It was crazy! I wanted to get some great pictures but my camara is still lost somewhere in Genola. Coming home to the cold was the worst part of the trip. By far! I'm so ready for the snow and coldness to go away! Im ready for some warmth! I told Lori that Im moving to the beach somewhere! I need it. It was 74 degrees when I left Phoenix, that is Mary Poppins weather, Practically perfect in every way!

Love!

2008-02-14T12:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Valentines Day! Love your guts!

I need an umbrella!

2008-02-12T15:51:00.000-07:00

In the last little while I have felt like nothing is going my way. When it rains in my world, it pours. It has been one bad thing on top on another, and I get that overwelming feeling that nothing is ever going to go my way. But I have come to find that it is in times like these that there is no greater thing in this world than true best friends, and family. I had a horrible night last night! On my way home from Amber's house I got a ticket and the cop was so rude to me for no reason. And when I got home I was bawling being a totaly girl and Chase and Kristi called me in their room just to make sure I was ok, and made me feel so much better. They really are so great. I have so much love an respect for them. I feel so greatful to be able to live in their home and have them as my family! It is amazing how such simple gestures can make such a huge difference. It really is the little things in life that make the difference:)

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-02-06T10:17:00.001-07:00

Um...I live in my brothers basement?

2008-02-05T16:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I have moved again. ha ha! Back in November I found the most wonderful brand new home that my roommates and I moved into and it was great. But Last month my roommates and I started fighting like girls do and it got out of hand so I moved out. It was an interesting night to say the least. But now I'm living with Chase and Kristi and I love it! They are such a happy cute couple. And Kristi and I love being roomies. Its means TWICE the clothes :) The only down fall is that Mayzie and Norman are not friends. At all. They hate each other! Its so funny! Norman always tries to play with her but is a little over whelming so she raises her little lip and shows him her teeth like she is tough. It is pretty funny. And Norman hates it when she wears bows. He rips them out of her hair with his teeth. Lets hope that they can get over this pretty quick so I can actually leave the room without Mayzie under my arm!

Mardi Gras!

2008-02-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

My best friend Amber works at Nordstom as a MAC cosmetics artist and she is amazing! So, when we were planning on going to a Mardi Gras party on Saturday she painted our masks. They were awesome, people were going crazy over them! It was so much fun. She rocks at what she does! So these are the pictures from that night, wish we could have got more but I didnt have my camara- it is lost in a box some where between Provo and Genola. What a mess!

Mardi Gras!

2008-02-05T15:39:00.001-07:00

Ready! Set! Blog!

2008-02-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Ok Lori! Here is the blog you keep telling me I need. You too Mel. This ought to be fun!