Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Schedules

I l-o-v-e having a schedule! I may not always follow it and plans change all the time, but I like to know what is going on, and an approximate time frame, and I like to be in charge of it. For the past week, I have had a crazy mixed up schedule that I have had a very hard time dealing with. Our company is moving to a new payroll system and there has been so much behind the scenes work to get it up and going - it's been nuts! Last Thursday I was here until 9 pm and then on Friday I was here until 6:30 (okay, it's not so late, but still - on a Friday night??) I took my work home with me and worked all weekend on it, leaving the house only once to go to church. I worked on this project (the word I now use to describe it is 'evil') all day yesterday, too! It's almost up and running and I am waiting for just a couple of more buttons to be switched at Corporate and then we are live and running and getting payroll done today.
The point of my ramblings, you may ask. This horrible project has destroyed my schedule - I mean everything...eating, sleeping, drinking (water - completely dehydrated, but that's a different story), everything changed! Last night was the first night that I had off in 4 nights. I left the office at 5, I went home, at dinner at a normal time, worked out (yay!), and slept. It was so peaceful! While this project isn't over, I am glad that the brunt of the work is done and that I can get back to my schedule.
In other news... I GOT ACCEPTED to NSCC. The letter was waiting for me when I got home from work. I won't start officially until the fall, which is just as good - it gives me one more summer to play before the real work begins and I have to readjust my schedule (there's that word again), although I am hoping that I can take a class online, just to get in the swing of things.
I have also decided that I am going to repaint my room and rearrange it. It needs to be more study friendly for when I do start school, and I think that changing the color will help that. I will definitely be taking before and after shots of this new project. I am hoping to start it this weekend; I guess only time will tell.
My last piece of GREAT news - General Conference is this weekend. While I absolutely love hearing from all of the Church leaders, I am more excited that I can sleep in if I want! I'm also thinking a pedicure between sessions on Saturday (well, there goes working on my room).

Monday, March 23, 2009

Staying power

Well, I can fully divulge all of the details of my secret. I should probably start out with the original plan in all its glory. My brainstorm for the past, well, almost year, was to go back to school. The big question was where, and then the second question was what program. I looked at BYU-Idaho since that is where I started my college education and fully enjoyed the experience. I looked at LDS Business College since it was a second choice when I graduated from high school and I liked the programs that they had to offer. I also looked at North Shore Community College here and other colleges and business schools from here to the west coast and back and everywhere in between.
I finally made my decision...to attend LDS Business College. They have a great Executive Assistant Program that I am extremely interested in. I made my decision and started getting everything rolling. I even started telling people that I was out of here. I followed through with decision and got my application submitted and the paperwork for housing filled out and ready to go and finally decided that I had better tell my company, just so they had a head's up that I was considering leaving; I thought it was the only appropriate thing to do since they have been so great to me. Well, I told my manager that I was thinking about going to school again, and that it was not local. She was incredibly supportive of my decision on a personal level. She encouraged me to go and to do what I needed to do. But, on a professional level, she didn't want me to leave. I went home and thought about everything again, making sure that I was really making the right decision. Well, the more I talked about it with my parents and the more I re-evaluated what I was doing, I realized that I didn't want to quit my job, and I didn't want to sell my car, and I didn't really want to start all over as a college student (at least not full time). After over an hour of careful consideration, the decision was made - I AM STAYING IN MA!!
I feel extremely confident in my decision to stay and to begin taking classes this summer at North Shore Community College. I knew once I found the right path that everything would feel right and fall into place, and it has. It's definitely not the plan I had originally, but it is the one that I feel is right for me.
So, if I fall of the face of the blogging world, and I guess, the world in general, it will be the new workload of my life, but I will be LOVING it!
HAPPY SPRING!!

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Work, A Recipe, and Walking

I feel like my post was a bit scatter brained yesterday; but I guess that is just what happens when I blog on my lunch break with phones ringing and emails flying. So what do I do today -blog on break...again. I may never learn.
Yesterday was a great day! Work is finally giving me my own day to day work assignments, which I am so grateful and excited about. Up to this point my job has really been dependent on someone else. I am excited to have my own routine and to know what needs to be done without being told.
Last night I tried a new recipe for Apple Cake I found on the Sisters Cafe blog. I love their recipes and this one was no exception. I am not one for experimenting with recipes (I leave that to my mom and sister) and was so glad that I didn't! It was perfect. Not too sweet like come cakes tend to be and was pretty fluffy considering. The only thing I would do differently would be to add some cinnamon (I just love the apple cinnamon combo). I will definitely be making that recipe again.
After I put the cake in I went downstairs for my nightly workout. We got a phonecall from the missionaries saying they were on their way over; about 15 minutes. I figured I could get at least one mile in before they arrived so I worked hard and kept it up. Then mile 2 rolled around and before you know it I had finished the 3rd mile. I couldn't believe it! I was so glad that I didn't stop after mile 1 to be ready and a little less sweaty before they got there because...they never showed up. Poor new missionaries are still a little confused and called our house instead of the other person they were going to visit. Better luck next time for them. What a night!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Is anyone else ready for a change? I mean, anything from a new outfit, to a new season, new job, new friends, anything... Well, I am. I have been feeling a bit like I'm in a rut and I need to snap out of it. I have decided to be more proactive in my life and I figured the best place to start was to declutter, clean, and organize. I was supposed to tackle that this weekend but let other things pop up here and there. However, I am making it not only a goal, but a resolution for this week. I am planning on setting some sort of consequence as well if I don't get it accomplished (me? punish myself?), although I am not sure what it should be.
I have also decided that I really want to learn to play the guitar and miraculously I started playing again yesterday (look - a goal I sort of accomplished!). I have a long way to go, but I figure a little bit every day or so will help me get back up to speed where I used to be. I learned a very valuable lesson from my inactivity with the guitar. Once you forget and stop playing, it really hurts to start again. My fingers are sore today, but it makes me feel like I am in the process of accomplishing something - that I am making something of myself. Yay!

Friday, March 13, 2009

Home life

I can definitely tell that I have made it home by my lack of blogging; oh well, life happens. It has been very busy playing catch up at work, but it's been really fun. I worked from 8 am to 7:30 P.M. last night - talk about a long day; then we went to dinner. I didn't make it home until after 9:30. Fortunately we were able to finish our big project today so we didn't have to stay late on a Friday afternoon. I am so glad about that!
It has been nice to be able to do my workouts again since I got home. Tonight I walked 3 miles - it was INCREDIBLE!! I love the way walking makes me feel! I'm on a high...at least until the exhaustion sets in again.
Off to bed and ready for a great weekend!

Monday, March 9, 2009

I made it home...

After a long day of travel, beginning at 4:30 a.m., I finally made it! I got super lucky on both of my flights and on my layover airport in Dallas - it couldn't have been easier. I also saved almost $100 on my rental car; talk about a great start to the day.
The entire trip was absolutely fantastic and while I really wish I didn't have to jump right in and go to work tomorrow, I am excited to get back to a routine. Wish me luck.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Utah - day 9

Well, only a day to go! I still can't get over how quick the time has flown.
Yesterday was probably the best day so far, in it's own way. We were able to meet up with Shantell and Heidi from my second semester at BYU-Idaho. We had a blast eating breakfast together and catching up on everything that has happened since the last time we saw each other. Lori had a homework assignment to work on and we eventually started working on her taxes; a mighty task, but nonetheless, exciting (at least to me). We took a break in the afternoon to go to Costco with some of the girls who were preparing for break the fast. We made it back home after a couple of stops and Lori insisted on making me take a nap (thank goodness for a sister who is looking after me; I really needed it!). Last night, we had plans to go to a friends house to have dinner and to play games! It was such a fun time and a great way to spend a Saturday night. I had every intention of being home by 9:30, but we were having such a great time that we didn't even end up leaving until after 10:30. Somewhere along the way I caught my second wind and we stayed up until almost 2 am (before the time changed - so technically almost 3). It made for a rough start this morning, but we had a great time and it was absolutely worth the complete exhaustion for a great time.
I might as well write about today as well since I will be travelling tomorrow and won't really have time or the access to do it in the airport. Since Lori's ward had stake conference last weekend, it made today fast Sunday. It was interesting (to say the least) to be in a singles ward again. The one thing that I am thankful for is that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the same no matter where on earth I may be.
When we got home from church Lori again insisted that I take a nap, although it didn't take too much convincing on my part. When I woke up, Lori had made THE BEST LEMON ROLLS EVER! What a way to wake up; I wouldn't mind doing it more often. We went to the break the fast in the afternoon for dinner - Hawaiian Haystacks - super yummy. The only problem now is that we are all super full and everyone is sleeping - the exact thing that I am getting ready to do! So, pretty much that has been the trip! It has gone by very quickly and I am grateful that I have had the chance to come. Thanks to Lori, her roomies, and all of our friends for making this such a great and memorable trip! Hopefully it won't be another 2 years before I get to come back!
Happy Sunday!

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Utah - day 8

Can you believe that we are to this point already? I can't believe how fast time flies, especially when it is limited to begin with. I am really ready to be home, but I am so totally going to miss this place; Lori, her roommates and friends, and just the good time that we have all seemed to have.
Yesterday was the perfect Friday! It honestly seemed like a Saturday because we got to sleep in and then Lori made a killer breakfast: hot pancakes and a homemade strawberry sauce. She also made amazing strawberry milkshakes. She had one class at noon and I had a lot to do between the time I dropped her off and picked her up again. I came back to the apartment and looked up and wrote down directions, got ready (hair and make-up) and went and took care of the laundry. When she was done with class we went and met a friend and former missionary from PA for lunch! It was so much fun catching up with Jenni again. We ate at yummy Red Robin (5 alarm burger is amazing - just ditch the jalapenos) and talked and laughed; it was a wonderful afternoon.
After lunch, Lori and I ventured through the mall for a bit before returning home to get ready, yet again. I was getting ready to go to the Draper Temple Open House and Lori was going on a date. We both had wonderful evenings and had fun getting home to tell each other about our nights. We used to love to have time at home to talk like that, so it has been fun to do it here as well. It was my last Friday night and it was a little bittersweet because I really don't want it all to be over with. The only consolation I have is that it won't be the last time that I have to come to visit.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Utah - day 7

I can't believe that I have already been here a week - time really does fly! But before and I can tell you what I did today - I have to fill in the details of yesterday!
Yesterday was a really great day (as they all seem to be). I finally made my way to campus, well, it was the Bookstore - but it was still great to get out and do something. Lori spent most of her time away from home between work and school. When she was home, we actually took an afternoon nap and spent time together with nothing going on. She had to re-write a paper (stupid computer problems) but she's awesome and did it without too much grumbling! Dude, if it had been me I don't know what I would have done, but it wouldn't have been too pretty, I'm sure. While everyone was away I cleaned their apartment. I got bored, but it was really fun. I scrubbed the kitchen and living room top to bottom - I really felt like I got a lot accomplished! I had several movies playing and it was a really great time. Lori and I stayed up while she finished writing her paper (sort of) but had fun talking a bit.
After writing this I've decided that it wasn't all that exciting, but again, it was just a great day. I made plans last night to see some friends at lunch today and tomorrow, so it should be fun! I will also try to pull the camera out again and get some more pictures before I leave.
Until the next time...

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Utah - day 6

Yesterday turned out to be one of the most awesome days ever. It wasn't that huge great things happened, but nothing went wrong and it was just a good day.
Lori let me borrow a book while I was here. I have never really considered myself a reader, but I know that when I find a great book that I can really get into, I can't put it down. That's the way I was with the book called "Dear John" by Nicholas Sparks. I read it in less than two days and still had time for everything else that I wanted. What a great story!
When I wasn't reading yesterday, Lori worked on homework and I searched the internet for just the right bread recipe. Of course I got so into my book that I forgot to start the bread so it could rise so we went to plan B and made breadsticks (it took less than 45 minutes start to finish!). Lori worked hard on her homework yesterday, trying to get everything done. Poor girl had 2 papers that were due today. She finished writing the one and when she went back to look at it, 2 of the pages out of one paper were completely gone, she had to rewrite those! But she did an excellent job and we had a great time. After we ate our dinner and dealt with some special people we met, we called one of our good friends, Loralie, to go to Coldstone Creamery with us. Tausha (Lori's roommate) also came with us. We had THE BEST TIME laughing and eating ice cream. I have waited over two years to have Coldstone again and it didn't disappoint. We actually ate our ice cream out side in the cold - it's a wonder we aren't all sick today.
We came back to the apartment after goofing off and Lori got back to her homework (she is SOOO good). Tausha wanted to go to the gym. It was past 9 pm and if you know anything about me, that is not the time to start going somewhere. However, I went with her and I am so glad I did. I have really missed my workouts at home and it felt good to move again. We had a really great time. When we were done, we started walking back to the apartment and decided that we weren't quite ready to go, so we went around the long way. It felt really great.
We got back to the apartment in time for lots of their fun friends to stop by - it was really a lot of fun chatting with everyone. I am really beginning to like it here, so much so that it is going to be really hard to say goodbye. Oh well, that's life and it is what it is. I guess the only thing to do now is make the rest of the time that I have here count.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Utah - day 5

Tuesday was a great day! Lori went to her classes and I enjoyed a rather quiet morning/afternoon. Nothing of incredible significance or excitement happened - it was just the perfect day for vacation. We had 70 degree weather yesterday - it was almost tropical! Lori, her roommate Sara, and I went and grilled some steak shish kabobs with zucchini. It was great to get outside and get in some fresh air. In the evening Lori had to work, so another roommate, Tausha, and I decided to bake up a storm. We made yummy Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies and Cream Puffs. It was fun to create something; at the end of the day, I felt like I had accomplished something, even though it was just food. After we were done baking we watched one of the funniest movies I have ever seen called Strange Brew. I haven't seen the end yet, so don't tell me what happens, but what I did see was great!
The weekdays are definitely less eventful than the weekends here, but I am completely okay with that. It makes for a completely relaxing time (and more quiet).
Lori has off of work tonight, so we will see what adventures lie in store for us.
Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Utah - day 4

Well - we're almost to the half way point in the trip - I can't believe how incredibly fast it is going! I feel quite a bit like a slacker; I had planned on going to classes with Lori, but haven't yet. Today I actually feel a lot of regret for not going, a situation I plan to remedy tomorrow (maybe).
Yesterday was such a laid back day. I look back now and I don't think I have ANYTHING to show for it. Actually I take that back, and I'll explain in a bit. I took Lori up to campus and then I came home and started to 'work'. I had real work to do, but my work computer would not connect to my personal computer, so my attempts yesterday were in vain. After her class I picked her up and we came back to the apartment. She did her homework (good girl) and I tried to be quiet so she could. She had another class in the afternoon and after they were over we went to the mall for lunch. I had an Arby's sandwich-I don't know what my problem is, but I L-O-V-E their food. Then we went shopping. Part of the purpose of this trip was to find a dress. I can't seem to find very good ones back home and this was the perfect opportunity. Lori and I tried on dresses for almost an hour. Lori bought this awesome and gorgeous green dress and I actually lucked out and found 2 dresses. I really wanted something springy and pick - but no luck - oh well, maybe next time.
Lori had to work last night and so I had more time to myself. I occupied myself by cleaning the kitchen and watching movies. Today I think I will try to find some sort of crafty thing to do while she is away. If not, I could take one more peaceful evening with some movies.
Yesterday certainly was certainly not super exciting, but it was an easy going day - and that is what I call a vacation.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Utah - day 3

Don't you just love how original these titles are? I mean, you can totally tell I sat here racking my brain for these ones. I figured I had better hurry and blog about yesterday or we'll be having a two for one special tomorrow.
Yesterday was a lot of fun! I found out how incredibly social, popular, and well-loved Lori is (although I already knew that). In the morning we went to their stake conference. It was weird to be back in a single/student ward and stake, but at the same time quite enjoyable. Their stake presidency was reorganized so one of the men from the presidency of the seventy(I never actually caught his name) and one of the members of the seventy (Elder Costa) were there and spoke. It was a great experience.
Once we got home we started making preparations for a party. Lori invited some of her friends and co-workers from freshman year over so I could see them again (I met most of them when I visited her last time). The party then grew into a few of her neighbors and by the time it was all said and done, I think most of her ward stopped by at some point. Ok, so that may actually be a bit of an exhaggeration, but we had over 40 people in this little apartment. It was such a hoppin' place that the party spilled out the front door and onto the balcony. It was a night of high energy and adventure. It was fun to see old friends, meet new ones, but mostly I had fun watching Lori be the awesome person/hostess that she is. She totally made everyone individually feel welcome. It was a great night. The only sad fact about last night was that it was so busy that I forgot to take any pictures. Oh well, I guess we don't have to have pictures of everything.
So, until tomorrow...

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Utah - day 2

What an incredible day. Saturdays are almost always the best days anyways, but it was especially fun to be able to spend it with Lori. She was super excited because she didn't have to work at all. We had a great day together. It started with making yummy breakfast and getting ready for the day. We finished eating and decided to get going. We had big plans for the day. Lori had to do some homework for her interiors class at the mall so we started there; definitely an interesting place. Then we decided that we needed just a few things at Costco (go figure, her day off and we still end up there). After we were finished there we had planned to go straight to Salt Lake, but then we realized we had stuff that needed to either be refrigerated or frozen, so back to the apartment we came. We got home and unloaded (and felt like we needed a nap) and one of her roommates was there and getting ready to go home so we took her with us and dropped her off on our way out to Salt Lake.
This is when the true adventure began. As we were driving we started thinking about all of the places that we used to go to when we lived here. We started by driving through downtown Salt Lake to see where some things were and then we headed toward North Salt Lake - the land of our childhood. We drove up a hill to a playground we used to play at.
We went swinging,

I went down the slide once
and we spun on this funny tilted spinny thing. We don't know what to call it other than fun - any ideas???






We even captured a few videos for your viewing pleasure...











We took so many pictures of us out there; it felt just like being little kids again.
After the park we drove through the parking lot of the church that we learned to ride our bikes in; it's funny how much smaller it seemed yesterday than it did 10+ years ago. We drove by our old house and were amazed to find how great it looked. The last time I visited and drove by the house I was disappointed that it looked so sad, but whoever lives there now has really done some great redesigning to the house. I almost didn't recognize it, but it was gorgeous (the pic doesn't do it justice).


We drove up through this incredibly beautiful community called Eagle Wood. They started construction on the development when we lived there, but they have REALLY been growing; it seems like it goes on forever.
We even made it to THE frozen custard shop that we went to when we were younger - still as amazing as ever (and yes, there is actually a picture to go with this, too).

Once we were finished eating we drove back by the former house to take a picture and then it was back into Salt Lake for a quick lunch. We went to Crown Burger - it is possible that they make THE best burgers EVER! (Please note the authentic fry sauce on the bottom - delish!)

Thankfully we split one so we could enjoy the rest of the adventures of the day. We left Crown Burger and started to make our way back down to Provo. We did have one more stop though, and that was to pick up Lori's roommate. It was such a fun drive, a little bit of 'I was right and you were wrong', and a whole lot of laughter. I got to meet her roommates family - they were so great. They invited us in and fed us soup and hot rolls! It was perfect for the stupid cold that I am fighting. We made it back to Provo around 7:30 and I was done; it was time for jammies for me, but Lori made M&M cookies for today (we're having an awesome party for desserts and friends - should really be a great time.) We started a movie and that was pretty much where my night ended (as usual). It was an awesome Saturday and we are excited for today!
I guess it doesn't really matter what we do, just as long as we're together!