From right to left, Abbey, Sarah and Amy. Three of the coolest chicks in Colorado.
Saturday, July 10, 2004
Friday, July 09, 2004
Fahrenheit 9/11
Last night I went to see this movie with some friends. There were some things presented in the movie that I didn't know before (like when Bush found out about the attacks, he sat there reading a book about a goat for 10 minutes instead of leaping to action as I previously assumed he did). This is a movie that my dad probably shouldn't see as he will get so angry and not stop talking about it for a week. To preserve my mom's sanity, they should avoid seeing it.
This may be a naive way of looking at the war in Iraq, and I don't want to make anyone mad enough to call and yell at me, but this is what I think is funny. I think it is interesting that people get so mad and say that the reason we went over there was for oil, like that isn't a valid reason. To me, going over to save our oil supply is a dang good reason. Our whole lifestyle is built on oil. I think it's ironic when the same people who are protesting the war complain about high gas prices. You can't complain about both. Either you don’t like the war, and you are willing to give up using plastic or driving your car, or you support the war and are grateful for the conveniences we have in this country. I fall into the latter category.
This may be a naive way of looking at the war in Iraq, and I don't want to make anyone mad enough to call and yell at me, but this is what I think is funny. I think it is interesting that people get so mad and say that the reason we went over there was for oil, like that isn't a valid reason. To me, going over to save our oil supply is a dang good reason. Our whole lifestyle is built on oil. I think it's ironic when the same people who are protesting the war complain about high gas prices. You can't complain about both. Either you don’t like the war, and you are willing to give up using plastic or driving your car, or you support the war and are grateful for the conveniences we have in this country. I fall into the latter category.
Thursday, July 08, 2004
All Hail the Blessedness of Text Messaging!
I just got a text from the mail man that says this:
"Hey thanks for inviting me for ice cream. It's been a while since I've done anything like that. I enjoyed it. Hope you have a great day!"
I am now on cloud 9. Hooray for nice boys!
"Hey thanks for inviting me for ice cream. It's been a while since I've done anything like that. I enjoyed it. Hope you have a great day!"
I am now on cloud 9. Hooray for nice boys!
Broken Heart
I think my heart is too big. I feel EVERYTHING, even other people's emotions. I just care so much about other people around me and I hate to see those I love stumbling. I think I get this from my dad. Why is it that we are supposed to work so hard to help other people avoid making mistakes, but in the end it is only they who can help themselves? We are supposed to "bear each other's burdens" but when we stretch out a hand to help, the weight on our friend's back is just out of reach.
Ice Cream and Reviews
My fiddling lesson after work went really well. I told my teacher that I am going to play in the contest in Loveland on August 7, so now we are focusing on getting my rounds put together. I hope that a fiddling contest is different from a normal violin contest. My past is filled with stressful failures when it comes to violin, and I really don't want to get into that again.
After my lesson I went over for institute, but it was cancelled because the teacher's wife went into labor. I guess that's a good enough excuse, but I was really bummed for 2 reasons. First, there was a chance that my favorite mail man would be there. Second, I really wanted to go waterskiing this morning and I wanted to set it up with the guy who has the boat. Alas, neither happened, so I was outta luck.
I went home and finished up the invitations for my party. The preliminary guest list has almost 50 people on it. I had no idea I knew that many people in Colorado. I have to go back to the craft store tonight and get more paper for invites. I'm just going to invite everyone. That way if only half can come I'll still feel like a lot of people care. I'm tricky huh.
So I was just sitting around watching a movie and I realized that I didn't want to do that all night again. So, I decided to call up the mail man. It took me about 15 minutes of weighing the possibilities before calling him up. I've never called him before, and to be honest, he never really gave me his number. Once I was looking at his phone comparing its ghetto-ness to my own phone and I called my number. That way he'd have my number and I'd have his. Tricky, huh. Anyway, after realizing that the worst case scenario was that he would laugh in my ear and tell me that I am way too losery to hang out with I decided I could handle that, and I called him up. I was a complete idiot on the phone, but somehow invited him to come over to my house and then we'd drive to Coldstone. I've decided that I will stop giving guys a hard time for not having the guts to ask out someone that you like. That is REALLY hard!
We got ice cream and talked until 12:30 in the morning. He is a really interesting kid, and way cute, but for some reason I just wasn't getting all that excited. We sat on opposite couches and talked about his last girlfriend. In January he broke up with a girl he thought he was going to marry. The week after he did it, he started thinking that he'd made the wrong choice and the stress was so intense that he got hives. He's really interesting, but the whole conversation kind of sent red flags up all over the place. I told him about Derek and everything I learned from that relationship. It was kind of funny because after I talked about Derek, I found out that mail man and Derek had worked together two years ago on the Unity IV rocket project at BYU. Small world.
Since I made the first effort to show him that I want to be his friend by calling him up out of the blue, its his turn to return the favor. If he is interested I think I made it really clear that I am too. If he isn't, he's a retard.
I just got my mid-year review back and it looks GREAT! I think I'll probably get a pretty big step increase, so maybe I'll actaully buy that washer and dryer I've been meaning to for 3 months.
After my lesson I went over for institute, but it was cancelled because the teacher's wife went into labor. I guess that's a good enough excuse, but I was really bummed for 2 reasons. First, there was a chance that my favorite mail man would be there. Second, I really wanted to go waterskiing this morning and I wanted to set it up with the guy who has the boat. Alas, neither happened, so I was outta luck.
I went home and finished up the invitations for my party. The preliminary guest list has almost 50 people on it. I had no idea I knew that many people in Colorado. I have to go back to the craft store tonight and get more paper for invites. I'm just going to invite everyone. That way if only half can come I'll still feel like a lot of people care. I'm tricky huh.
So I was just sitting around watching a movie and I realized that I didn't want to do that all night again. So, I decided to call up the mail man. It took me about 15 minutes of weighing the possibilities before calling him up. I've never called him before, and to be honest, he never really gave me his number. Once I was looking at his phone comparing its ghetto-ness to my own phone and I called my number. That way he'd have my number and I'd have his. Tricky, huh. Anyway, after realizing that the worst case scenario was that he would laugh in my ear and tell me that I am way too losery to hang out with I decided I could handle that, and I called him up. I was a complete idiot on the phone, but somehow invited him to come over to my house and then we'd drive to Coldstone. I've decided that I will stop giving guys a hard time for not having the guts to ask out someone that you like. That is REALLY hard!
We got ice cream and talked until 12:30 in the morning. He is a really interesting kid, and way cute, but for some reason I just wasn't getting all that excited. We sat on opposite couches and talked about his last girlfriend. In January he broke up with a girl he thought he was going to marry. The week after he did it, he started thinking that he'd made the wrong choice and the stress was so intense that he got hives. He's really interesting, but the whole conversation kind of sent red flags up all over the place. I told him about Derek and everything I learned from that relationship. It was kind of funny because after I talked about Derek, I found out that mail man and Derek had worked together two years ago on the Unity IV rocket project at BYU. Small world.
Since I made the first effort to show him that I want to be his friend by calling him up out of the blue, its his turn to return the favor. If he is interested I think I made it really clear that I am too. If he isn't, he's a retard.
I just got my mid-year review back and it looks GREAT! I think I'll probably get a pretty big step increase, so maybe I'll actaully buy that washer and dryer I've been meaning to for 3 months.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
MY LITTLE SISTER HAS A MAN!
So I just found out that Maggie Jo has a boyfriend! I am thrilled. I just got pictures of them from my mom and he is dreamy! I can't wait to post them here so you all can see what good taste she has. I talked to her yesterday on the phone about him and she is just head over heals, GONE, for the kid! That is great becuase he sounds like a quality guy. Much better than the last one!
Some time at home
Yesterday after work I drove all around looking for the best place to have my birthday party in a couple of weeks. I've decided that I am going to have a roller skating party for my 23rd birthday. I am way excited. I think I am going to try to find some New Kids on the Block, Debbie Gibson and MC Hammer for the occasion. Maybe I'll pull out the black stretch pants and my scrunch socks. I remember having so much fun going to the rink and skating the couples skate with my crush in elementary school. Maybe I can get a repeat...that’s probably way to optimistic.
As soon as I walked into the first place my mind was a wash of memories. How come every roller skating rink smells the same? If you don't believe me, check it out, they totally do. Anyway, I really wanted to find a hardwood floor place, because that is what I skated on when I was little. Alas, I think that trend has fallen by the wayside. They are all made out of a funky plastic now. Oh well.
I talked for a while with one of the owners of one of the rinks. He was a nice old man that reminded me of my grandpa. I wondered if he had been running the rink since he was a young man and has witnessed the change of eras inside his dark, oval shaped, windowless world. That would make an interesting movie. Anyway, all the rinks I went to were pretty much the same so I am just going to pick the one that is closest to my house.
I was so proud because all I had were the addresses for the rinks. I just drove around and found them and didn't get lost or have to ask for directions once. I think I'm finally feeling at home in Colorado.
After scoping out the rinks I decided to go to the craft store to get supplies for making the invitations. I'm going to invite practically everyone I know to meet me at the rink at 7:30, but only a few to go out to dinner with me beforehand. Is that rude? I don't want to offend anyone by not inviting them to dinner, but I really HATE eating out in a large group. Everyone is just loud and you can't have a good conversation and when the bill comes there is pure chaos.
I was over at Michaels and I thought I'd stop by Eric’s and use his computer. I wanted to post my pictures from the trip to Durango, and the program that lets me do that is installed on his computer (since my company has completely banned downloading any programs). Anyway, when I got over there I tried to log onto his computer, but he changed his password. RUDE. I should totally be able to access his computer any time I feel like it (this phrase is said with total sarcasm).
So after all of these exploits I finally got home at around 6. Amy and Erik were home and sitting downstairs, so I went up to my bedroom. I ordered a pizza and ate almost the whole thing by myself while I started making the invitations. I didn't go out, I didn't call anyone, I didn't answer my phone. I just glued, ate pizza, drank my Barq's root beer, watched Tommy Boy and fell asleep on the floor of my bedroom. All in all a perfect night!
As soon as I walked into the first place my mind was a wash of memories. How come every roller skating rink smells the same? If you don't believe me, check it out, they totally do. Anyway, I really wanted to find a hardwood floor place, because that is what I skated on when I was little. Alas, I think that trend has fallen by the wayside. They are all made out of a funky plastic now. Oh well.
I talked for a while with one of the owners of one of the rinks. He was a nice old man that reminded me of my grandpa. I wondered if he had been running the rink since he was a young man and has witnessed the change of eras inside his dark, oval shaped, windowless world. That would make an interesting movie. Anyway, all the rinks I went to were pretty much the same so I am just going to pick the one that is closest to my house.
I was so proud because all I had were the addresses for the rinks. I just drove around and found them and didn't get lost or have to ask for directions once. I think I'm finally feeling at home in Colorado.
After scoping out the rinks I decided to go to the craft store to get supplies for making the invitations. I'm going to invite practically everyone I know to meet me at the rink at 7:30, but only a few to go out to dinner with me beforehand. Is that rude? I don't want to offend anyone by not inviting them to dinner, but I really HATE eating out in a large group. Everyone is just loud and you can't have a good conversation and when the bill comes there is pure chaos.
I was over at Michaels and I thought I'd stop by Eric’s and use his computer. I wanted to post my pictures from the trip to Durango, and the program that lets me do that is installed on his computer (since my company has completely banned downloading any programs). Anyway, when I got over there I tried to log onto his computer, but he changed his password. RUDE. I should totally be able to access his computer any time I feel like it (this phrase is said with total sarcasm).
So after all of these exploits I finally got home at around 6. Amy and Erik were home and sitting downstairs, so I went up to my bedroom. I ordered a pizza and ate almost the whole thing by myself while I started making the invitations. I didn't go out, I didn't call anyone, I didn't answer my phone. I just glued, ate pizza, drank my Barq's root beer, watched Tommy Boy and fell asleep on the floor of my bedroom. All in all a perfect night!
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
This Struck Close To Home, Thanks Anth!
YOU KNOW YOU GREW UP IN THE 80's or early 90's IF-
1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word "PSYCHE".
2. You watched the Pound Puppies.
3. You can sing the rap to the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air"
4. You wore biker shorts under your skirts and felt stylish.
5. You yearned to be a member of the Baby-sitters club and tried to start a club of your own.
6. You owned those lil Strawberry Shortcake pals scented dolls.
7. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom.
8. Two words: M.C. Hammer
9. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock".
10. You had plastic streamers on your handle bars.
11. You can sing the entire theme song to "Duck Tales".
12. When it was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
13. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head.
14. You saw the original "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" on the big screen.
15. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.
16. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.
17. You played the game "MASH" (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House)
18. You wore Jordache jean jacket and you were proud of it.
19. L.A. Gear...need I say more
20. You wanted to change your name to "JEM" in Kindergarten.
21. You remember reading "Tales of a fourth grade nothing" and all the Ramona books.
22. You know the profound meaning of "WAX ON, WAX OFF"
23. You wanted to be a Goonie.
24. You ever wore fluorescent clothing.
25. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off...
26. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
27. You took Lunch Pails to school.
28. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.
29. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence.
30. You remember Hypercolor t-shirts.
31. Barbie and the Rockers was your favorite band.
32. You thought Sheera and He-Man should hook up.
33. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you
exchanged friendship bracelets.
34. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes.
35. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know you are, but what am I?"
36. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up"
37. You remember going to the skating rink before there were in-line skates.
38. You ever got seriously injured on a Slip and Slide.
39. You have ever played with a Skip-It.
40. You had or attended a birthday party at McDonalds.
41. You've gone through this nodding your head in agreement.
42. You remember Popples.
43. "Don't worry, be happy"
44. You wore like, EIGHT pairs of socks over tights with high top Reeboks.
45. You wore socks scrunched down.
46. "Miss MARY MACK MACK MACK, all dressed in BLACK BLACK BLACK"
47. You remember boom boxes vs. cd players.
48. You remember watching both "Gremlins" movies.
49. You know what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare!!"
50. You remember watching Rainbow Bright and My Little Pony Tales
51. You thought Doogie Howser was hot.
52. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac.
53. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool.
54. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By the Bell", the ORIGINAL class.
55. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THRU THE HEART.
56. You just sang those words to yourself, didn't you.
57. You remember watching Magic vs. Bird.
58. You cut your t-shirts in half and wore it with your homemade Levi
shorts.. (the shorter the better)
59. You remember when mullets were cool!
60. You had a mullet!
61. You still sing "We are the World"
62. You "Pegged" your pants ritually
1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word "PSYCHE".
2. You watched the Pound Puppies.
3. You can sing the rap to the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air"
4. You wore biker shorts under your skirts and felt stylish.
5. You yearned to be a member of the Baby-sitters club and tried to start a club of your own.
6. You owned those lil Strawberry Shortcake pals scented dolls.
7. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom.
8. Two words: M.C. Hammer
9. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock".
10. You had plastic streamers on your handle bars.
11. You can sing the entire theme song to "Duck Tales".
12. When it was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.
13. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head.
14. You saw the original "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" on the big screen.
15. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.
16. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.
17. You played the game "MASH" (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House)
18. You wore Jordache jean jacket and you were proud of it.
19. L.A. Gear...need I say more
20. You wanted to change your name to "JEM" in Kindergarten.
21. You remember reading "Tales of a fourth grade nothing" and all the Ramona books.
22. You know the profound meaning of "WAX ON, WAX OFF"
23. You wanted to be a Goonie.
24. You ever wore fluorescent clothing.
25. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off...
26. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
27. You took Lunch Pails to school.
28. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.
29. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence.
30. You remember Hypercolor t-shirts.
31. Barbie and the Rockers was your favorite band.
32. You thought Sheera and He-Man should hook up.
33. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you
exchanged friendship bracelets.
34. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes.
35. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know you are, but what am I?"
36. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up"
37. You remember going to the skating rink before there were in-line skates.
38. You ever got seriously injured on a Slip and Slide.
39. You have ever played with a Skip-It.
40. You had or attended a birthday party at McDonalds.
41. You've gone through this nodding your head in agreement.
42. You remember Popples.
43. "Don't worry, be happy"
44. You wore like, EIGHT pairs of socks over tights with high top Reeboks.
45. You wore socks scrunched down.
46. "Miss MARY MACK MACK MACK, all dressed in BLACK BLACK BLACK"
47. You remember boom boxes vs. cd players.
48. You remember watching both "Gremlins" movies.
49. You know what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare!!"
50. You remember watching Rainbow Bright and My Little Pony Tales
51. You thought Doogie Howser was hot.
52. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac.
53. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool.
54. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By the Bell", the ORIGINAL class.
55. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THRU THE HEART.
56. You just sang those words to yourself, didn't you.
57. You remember watching Magic vs. Bird.
58. You cut your t-shirts in half and wore it with your homemade Levi
shorts.. (the shorter the better)
59. You remember when mullets were cool!
60. You had a mullet!
61. You still sing "We are the World"
62. You "Pegged" your pants ritually
Fireworks
This weekend had fireworks, both physical and emotional for me.
Friday we took off around 1 pm and headed down to Crested Butte. Actually, the town closest to our final destination is called Pitkin. The drive down was pretty interesting. I sat in the middle of the back of Colin's green monster. It was pretty cramped since I was sitting between Kristian and Colin's cousin Kierstin. Anyway, we got to Pitkin alright, but the plan was to meet up with Jaime and Alan. They were both late because Jaime thought we were meeting in Crested Butte, and traffic made a normally 6 hour drive from Los Alamos, NM a 9 hour drive for Alan. Sarah and I waited down in town for them to show up while the others went up to set up the tents and stuff. Sarah played the piano for me, and I played a guitar with only 5 strings. Anyway, everyone showed up by 9. We had hot dogs, smores and went to bed.
Saturday we woke up and Colin made breakfast burritos with spicy Italian sausage. For some reason my body thought that it needed to wage a full out assault on the sausage. I was doubled over in pain. While I was in agony, we were all sitting around the fire talking. For some reason my mind and heart were jogged to think about my Aunt Sandy who died of colon cancer 2 months ago. Remembering her was more than I could bear in front of everyone, so I took a little walk in the woods to clear my head. I really miss her and because I didn't get to go to the funeral I still haven't really dealt with her passing. I miss her so much it is unreal. Anyway, so after a while of being alone and thinking things through I came back to camp. Everyone was getting ready for a hike, so I strapped on the old hiking boots and headed off with the group. We drove up to the trail head and parked. I walked for about 5 minutes and started feeling a lovely churning in my stomach. I thought if I just got moving it would all mix up and stop hurting. Just as we got to the steep part of the ascent to the top it started feeling like someone was ripping me in half. I had to curl up and just lay in the middle of the path. Well, it was about this time that I decided the top of the mountain was not for me, and Sarah and I turned around and walked back down. We made it to the cars alright, and I sat down and let my stomach just knead itself. Well, it had been a long time, so we decided that we wouldn't wait for the others to get back to the cars, we'd just walk back down to the campsite. I should have known better than to take off with Sarah. Almost every trip I've been on with that girl she takes off and gets lost. Anyway, we took a wrong turn somewhere and our trial dropped off the wrong side of the mountain. We walked and walked and walked until Sarah noticed that the pine trees of our campsite had turned into Aspen groves, indicating we were WAY below the elevation of our campsite. There was nothing for it, but to just keep walking. Eventually, we came to the orange circle reflectors and knew we were almost back, but since we had dropped so far, I knew the hike back would include a pretty serious climb. I was tired and hungry and not really sure of the right road, so we asked these mountain hicks where we needed to go. They offered us a ride and some cherry cake, and we accepted. We got back to the campsite and Colin and his uncle had gone out and searched for us. In my brain, I like to think that Colin was worried about Sarah because he is crazy about her. It made me miss having a boyfriend who would search for me if I got lost. Or take of his snowboard and hike back up a black run to find me. When we got back I took a nap, but was awakened to a strange repetitive thumping. I shook off my grogginess and found out that Colin and Alan had decided to chop down a tree. Guys are so weird. I would never look at a big tall tree in a forest and use a dull axe to chop it down. Anyway, it took a really long time, and ended up falling the wrong direction, so they couldn't even use it for firewood. For dinner we had chili up at some friend's cabin. Everyone was raving about how it was the best chili ever and I politely remained silent, because I didn't think it was as good as my mom's. After dinner we went down to Pitkin for the town ho-down. I was disappointed because I thought it would be bluegrass and square dancing, but it was just a DJ playing bad music like a church dance. I did get to dance with Alan and Eric both, which was nice. Afterward, more smores.
Sunday morning we got up, made banana pancakes and took off for Crested Butte. This town is AMAZING. It was small and right in the mountains and just great. I could live there if there was a job for me. Anyway, we watched a parade and I caught a red plastic duck thrown by the shriners. At the end of the parade, the whole town went crazy and had a big water fight. Alan drenched me, which was exciting. I was so cold. After the parade we went on a hike. We were all wearing flip flops, so it wasn't all that intense. At one point, Jaime dropped her backpack and it almost fell into the creek. About half way through the hike we found a bench and sat down and hung out. I made a daisy chain bracelet, and the boys dropped big rocks into the creek to make splashes. Eric decided to put a bunch of rocks in the bike trail so that the bikers would have a challenge. Like the brat that i am, I moved them all back out of the way. Everyone teased me about be the Mom and ruining the fun, but I could just see someone like me who doesn’t know how to mountain bike at all get to those rocks and freak out. Anyway, I hiked on a little farther by myself to clear my head. The whole day I had been overly sarcastic and mean to almost every body. I had complained about the hike and just been really annoying. I realized that I hated that about myself and felt really embarrassed by my actions. I resolved to change and be better. Half of us hiked back to town, and the other half hiked back to the cars. I was a towner. When we got back something just wasn't right with Eric, so I tried to talk to him and see what was wrong. I ended up acting really immature and I was embarrassed again. We all split up for dinner. I went with Sarah and Colin. As I sat eating my chicken burrito, I realized that I had acted poorly and all I wanted to do was apologize to Eric. As soon as I saw him again I went up to him and said I was sorry. He was so confused and asked what he had done wrong. I told him it was nothing, and I felt like I was acting like a baby. Things got all worked out, so that was GREAT. We all sat in a field and watched the fireworks. We were right under them, and once I thought the embers were going to drop right on us. It was cool. I was sandwiched between two couples and didn't have anyone to cuddle with, but besides that it was great.
Monday we woke up, broke camp, and drove home. When I got home I took the longest, hottest shower of my life. In three days my hair had become so greasy it looked like I was developing dreads. Anyway, after the shower I settled down and was watching Finding Nemo, when my roommate Amy and her man came in. She threw something at me, and when I found it I was shocked. It was a diamond ring. Turns out he proposed on Friday and she said yes, so I am yet again living with an engaged chick. I'm so happy for her because they are a great match, but they've only been dating since April. They've also decided to get married Jan 6, which means no winter break trip for me. I guess it’s worth the sacrifice (this phrase is said reeking with sarcasm). I mentioned something about throwing her a bridal shower and then I realized that might have been presumptive. I mean, I'm pretty sure that is a maid of honor thing to do, and I'm sure she'll ask one of her sisters, or his sisters to do that. But, now that I've said it I think I'm locked into throwing it, which I'd love to do. I hope I didn't overstep my bounds. Oh well if I did.
So seeing her engaged and reading bridal magazines kind of shook me up. Now that my 23rd birthday is rapidly approaching should I be thinking about getting married? Am I a menace to the ward if I am not dating someone or constantly searching for someone else? Will I end up the cool aunt with a bunch of cats that everyone brings their kids over to see?
Friday we took off around 1 pm and headed down to Crested Butte. Actually, the town closest to our final destination is called Pitkin. The drive down was pretty interesting. I sat in the middle of the back of Colin's green monster. It was pretty cramped since I was sitting between Kristian and Colin's cousin Kierstin. Anyway, we got to Pitkin alright, but the plan was to meet up with Jaime and Alan. They were both late because Jaime thought we were meeting in Crested Butte, and traffic made a normally 6 hour drive from Los Alamos, NM a 9 hour drive for Alan. Sarah and I waited down in town for them to show up while the others went up to set up the tents and stuff. Sarah played the piano for me, and I played a guitar with only 5 strings. Anyway, everyone showed up by 9. We had hot dogs, smores and went to bed.
Saturday we woke up and Colin made breakfast burritos with spicy Italian sausage. For some reason my body thought that it needed to wage a full out assault on the sausage. I was doubled over in pain. While I was in agony, we were all sitting around the fire talking. For some reason my mind and heart were jogged to think about my Aunt Sandy who died of colon cancer 2 months ago. Remembering her was more than I could bear in front of everyone, so I took a little walk in the woods to clear my head. I really miss her and because I didn't get to go to the funeral I still haven't really dealt with her passing. I miss her so much it is unreal. Anyway, so after a while of being alone and thinking things through I came back to camp. Everyone was getting ready for a hike, so I strapped on the old hiking boots and headed off with the group. We drove up to the trail head and parked. I walked for about 5 minutes and started feeling a lovely churning in my stomach. I thought if I just got moving it would all mix up and stop hurting. Just as we got to the steep part of the ascent to the top it started feeling like someone was ripping me in half. I had to curl up and just lay in the middle of the path. Well, it was about this time that I decided the top of the mountain was not for me, and Sarah and I turned around and walked back down. We made it to the cars alright, and I sat down and let my stomach just knead itself. Well, it had been a long time, so we decided that we wouldn't wait for the others to get back to the cars, we'd just walk back down to the campsite. I should have known better than to take off with Sarah. Almost every trip I've been on with that girl she takes off and gets lost. Anyway, we took a wrong turn somewhere and our trial dropped off the wrong side of the mountain. We walked and walked and walked until Sarah noticed that the pine trees of our campsite had turned into Aspen groves, indicating we were WAY below the elevation of our campsite. There was nothing for it, but to just keep walking. Eventually, we came to the orange circle reflectors and knew we were almost back, but since we had dropped so far, I knew the hike back would include a pretty serious climb. I was tired and hungry and not really sure of the right road, so we asked these mountain hicks where we needed to go. They offered us a ride and some cherry cake, and we accepted. We got back to the campsite and Colin and his uncle had gone out and searched for us. In my brain, I like to think that Colin was worried about Sarah because he is crazy about her. It made me miss having a boyfriend who would search for me if I got lost. Or take of his snowboard and hike back up a black run to find me. When we got back I took a nap, but was awakened to a strange repetitive thumping. I shook off my grogginess and found out that Colin and Alan had decided to chop down a tree. Guys are so weird. I would never look at a big tall tree in a forest and use a dull axe to chop it down. Anyway, it took a really long time, and ended up falling the wrong direction, so they couldn't even use it for firewood. For dinner we had chili up at some friend's cabin. Everyone was raving about how it was the best chili ever and I politely remained silent, because I didn't think it was as good as my mom's. After dinner we went down to Pitkin for the town ho-down. I was disappointed because I thought it would be bluegrass and square dancing, but it was just a DJ playing bad music like a church dance. I did get to dance with Alan and Eric both, which was nice. Afterward, more smores.
Sunday morning we got up, made banana pancakes and took off for Crested Butte. This town is AMAZING. It was small and right in the mountains and just great. I could live there if there was a job for me. Anyway, we watched a parade and I caught a red plastic duck thrown by the shriners. At the end of the parade, the whole town went crazy and had a big water fight. Alan drenched me, which was exciting. I was so cold. After the parade we went on a hike. We were all wearing flip flops, so it wasn't all that intense. At one point, Jaime dropped her backpack and it almost fell into the creek. About half way through the hike we found a bench and sat down and hung out. I made a daisy chain bracelet, and the boys dropped big rocks into the creek to make splashes. Eric decided to put a bunch of rocks in the bike trail so that the bikers would have a challenge. Like the brat that i am, I moved them all back out of the way. Everyone teased me about be the Mom and ruining the fun, but I could just see someone like me who doesn’t know how to mountain bike at all get to those rocks and freak out. Anyway, I hiked on a little farther by myself to clear my head. The whole day I had been overly sarcastic and mean to almost every body. I had complained about the hike and just been really annoying. I realized that I hated that about myself and felt really embarrassed by my actions. I resolved to change and be better. Half of us hiked back to town, and the other half hiked back to the cars. I was a towner. When we got back something just wasn't right with Eric, so I tried to talk to him and see what was wrong. I ended up acting really immature and I was embarrassed again. We all split up for dinner. I went with Sarah and Colin. As I sat eating my chicken burrito, I realized that I had acted poorly and all I wanted to do was apologize to Eric. As soon as I saw him again I went up to him and said I was sorry. He was so confused and asked what he had done wrong. I told him it was nothing, and I felt like I was acting like a baby. Things got all worked out, so that was GREAT. We all sat in a field and watched the fireworks. We were right under them, and once I thought the embers were going to drop right on us. It was cool. I was sandwiched between two couples and didn't have anyone to cuddle with, but besides that it was great.
Monday we woke up, broke camp, and drove home. When I got home I took the longest, hottest shower of my life. In three days my hair had become so greasy it looked like I was developing dreads. Anyway, after the shower I settled down and was watching Finding Nemo, when my roommate Amy and her man came in. She threw something at me, and when I found it I was shocked. It was a diamond ring. Turns out he proposed on Friday and she said yes, so I am yet again living with an engaged chick. I'm so happy for her because they are a great match, but they've only been dating since April. They've also decided to get married Jan 6, which means no winter break trip for me. I guess it’s worth the sacrifice (this phrase is said reeking with sarcasm). I mentioned something about throwing her a bridal shower and then I realized that might have been presumptive. I mean, I'm pretty sure that is a maid of honor thing to do, and I'm sure she'll ask one of her sisters, or his sisters to do that. But, now that I've said it I think I'm locked into throwing it, which I'd love to do. I hope I didn't overstep my bounds. Oh well if I did.
So seeing her engaged and reading bridal magazines kind of shook me up. Now that my 23rd birthday is rapidly approaching should I be thinking about getting married? Am I a menace to the ward if I am not dating someone or constantly searching for someone else? Will I end up the cool aunt with a bunch of cats that everyone brings their kids over to see?
Thursday, July 01, 2004
My lunch date
So for the first time I went out with someone to lunch that I didn't know at all. Good thing I am such a stellar conversationalist. The only thing that was too bad was that he really didn't ask anything about me. I felt like I was the one asking all the questions. Anyway, we talked about skiing (my new passion) and rock climbing and mountain biking and riding motorcycles. I don't really do any of the last three, so I didn't really have much to say. We talked about our families and where we grew up and stuff. We started talking about music (my territory), but he never really asked what I liked. Which I thought was a little self centered on his part. He paid for my lunch (which made the whole thing feel really date-ish and made me a little uncomfortable to tell you the truth). When we got back to work he asked if we could do it again sometime or maybe something else and I said sure because he was a nice enough person and you can never have too many friends. Anyway, about an hour after I'd been back at my desk he emailed me and apologized for not asking more about the stuff I was interested in. I was impressed by that. Then, he asked if I liked to dance. This was a MAJOR selling point because I LOVE to dance and I haven't gone, or had someone to go with since Mexico in January. If he wants to take me out dancing, I'm up for it any time.
Blah
So in a preemptive strike I have decided that I, in fact, do not have a crush on the boy that I previously thought I did. After institute last night I tried to talk to him and get the same vibe I did on Monday night, but it just wasn't there, so now I'm not interested. Actually, to be truthful, I don't think he is into me, so I am deciding that I am not into him before he has the chance to make it perfectly clear that he isn't interested. This way I am saved the feelings of rejection that I will avoid at all costs right now.
One of my closest friend's grandpa died earlier this week, and she flew out this morning for the funeral. Last night Sarah and I were going to get her flowers and a card for her. We were walking into the store when, wouldn't you know it, she drove up to us. It was so random that we just happen to be going to the store at the same time. Anyway, we didn't know what to say when she asked us what we were getting, so I lied and said I needed a Pepsi (plausible since I am an addict). Anyway, we got her the flowers and a card, and showed up on her front step about 30 minutes after we saw her. It was really bizarre. We hung out at her house really late and when I realized what time it was, and how early she had to get up for her flight, and that she hadn't packed yet I decided to high tail it outta there.
Today I am going to lunch with the stranger who asked me out on Monday. I saw him earlier today in the hallway, and I tried to be nice, but he was kind of weird. I hope this isn't too uncomfortable, but I can take anything for an hour, right?
So today is one of those days that I just don't want to do anything or see anybody. I just want to go home and crawl back into my bed, watch a movie or read a book and eat really buttery popcorn. Today after work I'm planning on packing for the weekend trip, doing laundry, and cleaning my bathroom. I am SO exciting. I bet you are really glad that you read this entry today.
One of my closest friend's grandpa died earlier this week, and she flew out this morning for the funeral. Last night Sarah and I were going to get her flowers and a card for her. We were walking into the store when, wouldn't you know it, she drove up to us. It was so random that we just happen to be going to the store at the same time. Anyway, we didn't know what to say when she asked us what we were getting, so I lied and said I needed a Pepsi (plausible since I am an addict). Anyway, we got her the flowers and a card, and showed up on her front step about 30 minutes after we saw her. It was really bizarre. We hung out at her house really late and when I realized what time it was, and how early she had to get up for her flight, and that she hadn't packed yet I decided to high tail it outta there.
Today I am going to lunch with the stranger who asked me out on Monday. I saw him earlier today in the hallway, and I tried to be nice, but he was kind of weird. I hope this isn't too uncomfortable, but I can take anything for an hour, right?
So today is one of those days that I just don't want to do anything or see anybody. I just want to go home and crawl back into my bed, watch a movie or read a book and eat really buttery popcorn. Today after work I'm planning on packing for the weekend trip, doing laundry, and cleaning my bathroom. I am SO exciting. I bet you are really glad that you read this entry today.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
One year anniversary
One year ago today I started working with my company. They gave me a keychain to commemorate the event. Pretty impressive, huh?!?
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