Managed Chaos

HomeMade

2012-02-15T12:20:00.002-07:00

My weak attempt at getting back on the blog wagon and wishing everyone a Happy Valentines Day. Complete with photo.

Tanner decided he wanted to make all of his valentines this year. of course, I tried to convince him that it would be easier to buy cards, complete with Phineas and Ferb, from Shopko. Guess who won the discussion?

Readathon

2011-09-22T20:32:00.000-06:00

I heard about Amulet on NPR books but it wasn't until I read the reviews that I thought Tanner would like them. So, I immediately purchased all four books for him. I love Amazon.

The best part was the night he finished reading the first book.

He slowly closed the book.

Flipped Amulet over and looked at the cover.

After a few minuets of looking at the cover, he gently ran his hand over it.

Then while holding the book with both hands he gave a big sigh and said,

"That, was a good book."

Yup. Definitely the best part.

Tanner invited his friend over for a readathon. This did not last long but the effort was noted. Soon they were back to being normal little boys. Running around shooting things and making ruckus.

Climb on

2011-09-19T07:17:00.000-06:00

We have not been climbing outdoors too much this year; Nate's schedule limits his time to go out, I would rather mountain bike, Casi is a busy Teenager, and Tanner does not climb. Somehow we managed a trip last weekend. Here is our day in bullet point form and iphone pictures.

When your "I don't climb" kid says "I want to climb at Dogwood", you don't ask questions. You just go.
We should always bring snacks when we climb.
We were all hungry and irritable post climb.
Tanner would only go about 10 feet up the rock
So Nate bribed him with gum and skittles.
I did not recognize the power of gum and skittles to an eight year old.
I loved seeing my kids climb together.

Casi, having climbed once a week for two years at momentum, is fairly confident with the gear. She hooked Tanner onto the rope and belayed him during his climbs.

I love seeing her confidence and patience with Tanner as he worked out his fears on the rock.

I have video of them climbing together but I am having technical difficulties with the recorder and the download process.

Hmmm, maybe I will post it later. yea. MmKay!

Things I over heard: I am concerned for your safety

2011-09-03T20:15:00.000-06:00

I would guess that this is going to be a little controversial and I may even get a few negative comments (Disclaimer: This is NOT about LGBT rights) but I have to post it because, I think there is a lesson in it. Besides I took pictures with my new iphone app and I think they turned out pretty awesome. So here is the story:

The kids and I went roller bladding and scootering at the Jordan River parkway (JRP) a few Saturdays ago. We decided to go while Nate was sleeping. He is still working nights, leaving us with another reason to leave the house on weekend mornings.

Casi and I skated while holding hands. (Love this)

We were having a great time with each other. Laughing, talking, chasing each other and all that stuff that comes with such activities. Of course, Tanner is spending most of his time jumping off of any bump in the trail. He rides without a care (for anyone or his own safety) When, Casi falls.

She gets up with a smile on her face and continues on.

A few minuets later, a stranger comes up and starts to berate Casi and I with information regarding wrist guards, knee guards and helmets. "They can prevent scrapes." he says.

Side Rant 1: Scrapes? When have we EVER been worried about scrapes?

He continues on. Giving us lots of things to consider for the rest of the day and ending the conversation with “I am concerned with your safety.”

Side rant 2: OMG! Really? I can see how I am living a dangerous life without wrist supports. Golly gee, I hope he has arch supports in his walking shoes. Can you imagine the possible feet problems he can develop if he does not? (sorry, I just had to let that out.)

Casi and I responded through out the conversation with confused looks uncomfortable laughter.

Now, the thing I have not told you is that as we were leaving for JRP Tanner tried to load Casi and my helmets* ** and I told him not to. I did not think what Casi and I were doing required a helmet. Of course, this means I was taking some level of risk with Casi's head and my head. Although, it was a very, very, very small level of risk I will admit it was there. I then told Tanner he would need his helmet. Knowing how he rides and his lack of attention of his surroundings.***
*This means that my kid is trained to wear a helmet and sees them as standard, necessary gear when riding wheeled items.
** I would never consider knee pads for the JRP unless my child was very young. In a fall on rough surfaces it can cause the person to stop too fast and slam their face into the concrete. Knee pads should be reserved for the very young and for smooth surfaces (such as skateboard parks, skate rings, and half pipes) where you can use the knee pads for sliding in a fall.
***He ran 3 people off the trail and almost collided with one attentive (thankfully) bike rider.

Some time later, before we pass this nosy stranger a second time, Casi feels weird and wonders what to say. I respond “You should tell him that his hair style is outdated and you are concerned with his social standing.” She giggles because he sports the long wavy 80's hair that strangely match the Standard poodles he is walking. Then, more seriously I say “You did nothing wrong and it's just his opinion. We have our own feelings about the subject. I would say nothing.”

Of course, Casi and I discussed this issue the remaining time at the park. “I wish I would have said something when he said that." she says.

“Why?" I respond. "What you said was perfect."

After our trip down the Jordan River parkway, Tanner and I raced down a short hill.
Tanner said "I think Mini Man would like this!" and sat down on his scooter.
"MiniMan"is what he calls his alter ego; the sitting Tanner.

Me racing down the hill. Being helmetless never felt so good!

So I have two questions on this:

1) Are we so trained as a society, that we can not allow others to evaluate their own risk?

2) What things do you feel so strongly about that you feel the need to share your thoughts to a perfect stranger?

My list of things I feel so strongly about that I (may) feel the need to share them:

1) LGBT rights. J

Monthly photo: I'm Ready for My Close Up

2011-08-31T07:33:00.001-06:00

This months Monthly photo landed on our sliding glass window. Carol from amazing nature tells me this is a Western Conifer Seed Bug. You can my photo on her website here.

"Well, it looks like you have the Western Conifer Seed Bug. It's in the family of Leaf-footed Bugs. You've probably noticed that the rear legs have a spot on them shaped like a leaf. They feed off trees and pines cones, etc."

The Western Conifer Seed Bug flies like a wasp, they lay eggs in rows on pine needles, have 6 stages of life (performing all six within the warm months of summer), they produce a funny smell if alarmed (smells like pine- similar to stink bugs), and the adults (shown below) overwinter by finding a warm spot to rest -this means he will try to winter in your house. There is a funny poem about a Western Conifer Seed Bug here.

Tanner posed with this bug from the inside of our sliding glass doors.
(Yes. This is yet, another iphone picture. I can not help myself, its so convenient.)

Western Conifer Seed Bug's are not dangerous but they do look very similar to a Western Leaf-footed Bug (squash bug) that are known predators of squash plants. So I made a list of how to tell them apart.

To tell a Western Conifer Seed Bug from a Western Leaf-footed Bug:

The Western Conifer Seed Bug has a thin zigzag line across his back
The leaf shape on the back legs is symmetric (the Western Leaf-footed bug is Asymmetric)
and lastly the Western Conifer Seed Bugs are from Europe so they will have importation documents

Win-win

2011-08-27T10:27:00.000-06:00

This school year, I made the obvious realization that ugly, plain notebooks are 10X cheaper than the cute ones with buggy-eyed cats and purple swirls. This realization may have caused a slight upset in Shopko but I assure you no teenagers were harmed in the purchase of said cheaper notebooks. And now, since I spent $25 less on Casi's school supplies, I was able to buy me new undies! A much needed expenditure. Of course, Casi has already done an excellent job creating personalized and unique covers for all 6 of her school notebooks. I think they reflect who she is better than anything we could have bought.

Guilt ridden fruity notes

2011-08-24T22:39:00.000-06:00

As you know, I am a working mother. So, during the summer my kids are home. Alone. And, so, I worry about them eating their fruits and vegetables. (I worry about a few other things too.) Thats two meals a day of unmonitored eating and it gave me a LOT of culturally sponsored parental guilt.

So, I asked them to eat one fruit item from the fruit stocked bowl on the counter. I said, "Do you think you could eat one fruit after lunch each day?" Which I think means "You will eat a fruit every day after lunch." but the kids interpreted it as "Eat fruit but, only if you want to."

They did not eat any fruit. I think its because we have a freezer stocked with popsicles.

So, in the end, I ate the fruit.

I took the fruit with me to work due to the guilt of them going bad. But, I have a secret. I don't really like fruit. (No gasping) Well, thats not exactly true I just prefer a veggies. And so, the other day, when I went to get the pear to take to work. I did not really want to. And, then....

I had this idea.

And, it worked!

And even though, it was only 1 piece of fruit over the three months of summer. The guilt is gone.

Whiptail in a window well

2011-08-08T09:11:00.001-06:00

Look what I found in my window well.

I believe it is a whiptail lizard. My guess is, its either the introduced New Mexico Whiptail or the Tiger Whiptail according to DNR's website. If you have time, the distribution map of the New Mexico Whiptail is interesting. You can see it here.

Other items, also found in window well include: 6-8 inches of leaf decay matter, a green plastic planter pot, one child's sized flip flop, and two 18 inch long wood planks.

Monthly Photo: Patriotism

2011-08-01T07:51:00.002-06:00

I had a REALLY hard time with this months challenge. I looked for patriotism in everything from the marketing of Dominoes and Pepsi to the overtly symbolic patriotism in things like flags and eagles. I even thought about going to a parade. Scary. I know.

I did not want to give up because this is month two of starting this challenge and nothing is less patriotic than giving up. Then I remembered that I made pie! And in case you have not seen American Pie, the movie, they informed us that pie is as American as you can get. And don't start telling me that it is the Apple pie that is the American Pie because nothing is more American than the acceptance of all types of pie.

Plus, Bourbon pecan pie is pretty down right American since it was created in New Orleans after the Native Americans told them about nuts.(God, I LOVE NUTS and now Native Americans)

Besides, look how patriotic it is next to the American Flag and the Bald Eagle.

BTW: I made this pie myself! With LARD! Check out that crispy layered crust.

I made this pie because, this year in addition to the fireworks, beer and BBQ's we celebrated Pioneer day with Pie-n-Beer because Pioneers are freaking awesome!

Golly, I amaze myself with this act of patriotism.

Swimming pool deprivation

2011-07-28T20:19:00.002-06:00

and 95 degree weather may lead to sticking your head in the beer cooler.

Five minutes after I took these pictures I went back outside. He had added soap to the tub and was, once again, sticking his head in it. He sat up with bubbles foaming in his hair and running down his chest and said "I needed a bath". Now thats a boy who can multitask.

(Disclaimer: Bathing outside is not due to lack of a tub.)

Atherley Campout at Joes Valley: 2011

2011-07-19T10:22:00.002-06:00

Sometimes it happens... we manage to get everyone together for an extended family trip.

We took turns making the meals (fish tacos anyone!), played many card games, went running (I relearned I am a really poor runner), played in the water, 4 wheeled (the longest ride was 47 miles. WOW!) fished, got sunburned (sorry Jeremy), rode bikes (Braxton enjoyed tandem riding) around the camp loop and up on the trails (you rock Lisa!), identified plants and birds, read so many books, hiked, had a rousing game of keep away (boys vs girls and grandma no one got ticks), napped, saw a double rainbow, got rained in and most importantly, simply enjoyed everyones company.

Best trip ever!

On the first day we all climbed onto 4 wheelers and trucks and drove to the 10 miles to Pete's Hole. I rode with Nate, Sheri, DJ, Braxton, Ryker, Emily, Emaleigh, and Casi on the 4 wheelers. It rained as we drove through mud puddles. We all ended up muddy but happy as we finally reached the small lake.

A (almost) group shot.

Having a house full of girls gives Tanner red finger nails.

Tanner LOVES to fish and because of this he only caught one.

What is it about teenage girls and Dr Pepper?

Our loot!

Nate spent the whole time loading worms and unloading fish.

There were many card games; 13, phase 10, and Trash.

The kids were constantly playing Trash (thanks Emaleigh for sharing such a great game).

Many hours spent at Joes Valley reservoir rearranging docks, kayaking, floating, and having water fights with Uncle Jed.

The girls (Casi and Emaleigh) spent many hours rearranging the docks.

One of my favorite photos. I just love both of their expressions.

During one rainy outburst all the grandkids ended up in Grandmas small trailer. Grandma was prepared with glow sticks and chaos ensued.

Words to remember:

"Ninjindian"

"Chimpmonkey" (thanks Katie)

and "Socks with sandals. What? What? What?"

Monthly Photo Challenge: Where the wild things are

2011-07-01T06:30:00.002-06:00

"Let the wild rumpus begin!"

This Red Squirrel was very upset.

She would climb up onto a chair, jump to the tree, and then carefully crawl down to the tube feeder. Her fate however, was not filled with joyous, nutty, delights because before she could reach them, she would fall off.

Our cute little squirrel would then scream"chit chit chit" and angrily snap her tail before trying the same serious of moves. I could relate.

(Monthly photo challenge link)

Promoted to having naps.

2011-06-19T07:06:00.022-06:00

Nate is NOT nursing a hangover. Nope.

He was promoted and this new position demands a 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM schedule

Side effects include: eternal jet lag, napping, walking around with dazed expressions, being busted watching > 5 mins of Glee, 24 hour -7 days a week bed head, a photo taken of you sleeping, a dependence on caffeinated beverages and sleeping pills, and our computer being clean from all viruses (because what else is there to do at 3:00 AM on the weekends).

oh, and Nate....

Happy Fathers Day!

Whoooo?

2011-06-17T08:25:00.000-06:00

Carol Dixon made these awesome owl hats for Tanner and Casi. They are adorable!

This is what happens when I ask Tanner to look owlish.

Zombification

2011-06-14T19:54:00.000-06:00

I found Tanner outside playing in the dirt.

I asked what he was doing.

and he said...

Turning into a ZOMBIE!

Going to the Zoo with three boys

2011-06-08T07:18:00.000-06:00

I was going to write about my trip to the Zoo with Tanners class but, then I read Tanners version. I decided why should I write about it if he already did. He saved me a lot of work! By the way, Tanner still does not care about spelling. "It's just my grade, Mom!"

The pooping giraffe, Scorpion, and the water squirting elephant and dinosaurs were a big hit.

Momma Elephant. The zoo keeper is checking her teeth. I like her fat pink tongue.

Little Zuri, the baby elephant, is now 2 years old. I wrote about her in 2008 here. She is still the cutest thing on the block even though she weighs 14,000 lbs. And, she is already earning her keep by standing on her ~~nose~~ ~~mouth~~ thing.

The zoo keepers promised that they bathed her this morning.

Size comparison of Zuri to her mom

Unlike the giraffe poop, the tigers sleeping together grossed out the one of boys. He exclaimed, "That is disgusting!" I told him that it Tanner was as cute and furry as a those tigers, he would snuggle up to him.

My favorite part of the whole thing was the boys love for the small animal building. This is my favorite part of the zoo and yes, I know it smells. I have never gone to the zoo with someone that loved to look into all those small cages and see the critters as much as I do. Because of this, I over looked the moment when the giraffe pooped and all three of them exclaimed " That was awesome!" before running downstairs to get a better view of the poops exit.

Whatisit?

2011-05-31T23:59:00.014-06:00

I saw this plant in a book I rented from the library but, of course, I took it the book back before the plant spontaneously sprouted from the ground. I just love its heart shaped leaves and tinner cupped flowers. I just can not remember what it is or if its something that I should allow to grow.

So.... What is it? Should I keep it or pull it? Does anyone know?

Family picture

2011-05-29T10:12:00.000-06:00

We are all smiling but I think most of us had one thought on our minds. "why am I sitting in duck shit."

Family photo; 2011. Wheeler Farm. Taken by Jessika Reed @ Royce & Molly studios

Family pictures always have confused me. They seem to be a necessary evil but are they? To me, they are fabricated, posed, fake, untrue. Even in the real setting, of Wheeler Farm, all I see is a fake background.

Family pictures, generally, are the exact opposite of what the picture below shows. What we do. How we REALLY dress. Behave. Act. Interact with each other. And it comes complete with memories. Of us spending an evening running in the rain. Making bird calls. Laughing. Living. And being together.

Family photo; 2011. Capitol Reef National Park. Taken with Olympus SP-565uz, auto setting 12 sec.

What do you put on your wall? Does anyone else think about this?

Face of innocence

2011-05-17T13:17:00.000-06:00

"No. I have not been playing computer games for the past four hours, I have been doing my homework."

Eight

2011-04-29T12:47:00.000-06:00

After Tanner's battery extraction, we hurried home to prepare his birthday cupcakes (Our family likes cupcakes. Not cake. Yes, they are different). I decided to make a multi-step, over-the-top, raspberry-filled, chocolate-dipped, strawberry-topped cupcakes. Which reminded me of why I usually leave such homey madness to the stay-at-home mom community. These cupcakes took me three hours to complete, made my kitchen a mess, and reminded me that our microwave is still broken. They also were so yummy that after I ate 4 cupcakes... I ate 4 more.

The recipe for them are here.

Shots are kind of like band aids

2011-04-28T15:25:00.000-06:00

“Do you know the difference between education and experience? Education is when you read the fine print; experience is what you get when you don’t.” Pete Seeger.

The phone call went something like this, "Tanner needs to be picked up from school. He has a battery in his ear". Of course, my question was "Double or triple A?"

Tanner was rather nervous as he picked up his bag, coat, and as he told me his battery-in-ear story. It went something like this. "Cole found a battery on the playground and then it got in my ear... somehow". He was very uncomfortable about this story so I did not ask more questions and instead enjoyed a quiet car ride to the doctor. I imagine he was thinking about the shot he was going to get to remedy the battery in his ear. You know, because kids think shots cure EVERYTHING. Shots are kind of like band aids.

At the doctors office, Tanner told the same story. "Cole found a battery on the playground and then it got in my ear... somehow". After the story was over, the doctor looked at me and I gave him my best "Yes. That is our story. And, we are sticking to it" look. The doctor paused, then took out a handy stick with a light on it and proceeded to stick it in Tanners ear.

Tanner sat there so well but, I could see he was getting uncomfortable so I started talking. I started talking about the different methods, Tanner and I discussed, on how to get a battery out of an ear. Tanners plan was to put backing soda and vinegar into his ear. This would cause a reaction that would force the battery out of his ear. Then at about the same time I finished my story, the doctor started to get VERY excited. Exclaiming "I got it. Ohhh, I got it." In celebration for the doctors euphoric moment, Tanner and I started clapping and cheering. The doctor may have even jumped around before settling into his documentation of the event in his notebook. "Foreign object extracted from left ear."

It was the BEST DOCTOR VISIT EVER because, we went in with an issue and left with it resolved. There was not a "Take two of these and call me in the morning." or "We have to left this work itself out.". It was done. Finished. (And there was clapping.)

On the way home from the doctor, I asked Tanner if he was ever going to tell me the real story about how the battery appeared in his ear. He then told me that "Cole put it there to be funny." Which, strangely, made me feel a little bit better because, its never the brightest student in class that likes to put random objects into their ear (I stuck an eraser up my nose).

Then, I started to think, maybe I should put the $75.00 doctor bill in Cole's .... mailbox.

Winter hike

2011-04-14T02:32:00.006-06:00

I took Tanner and Casi on a hike up Bells Canyon. It was late and we were trying to beat the suns set. We hiked fast, and one complained, but we made it to the top and back before we lost the light.

(A picture of snow in honor of today's snow!)

Tanner, Feb 2, 2011@ Bells Canyon trail

Playing dress up

2011-04-13T07:02:00.001-06:00

This is how the game goes down at our home. I did not know cheap pearl necklaces could look so bad ass.

Vulture World

2011-04-10T10:50:00.001-06:00

Things have been pretty crazy in the ol' Branch home. Nate and I have been trading weeks out of town. If we were smarter or, perhaps, if we had any control over our lives, we would have separated each trip by a week. Instead, we overlapped by 8 hours and those 8 hours caused me a lot of mental stress. "What would happen if the kids needed ... something?"

I think about the memories my mom recounts of me. In these stories, I was freaking out over one of my younger siblings needing me. One time, my younger brother tried to get off the wrong bus stop after school. To keep him from having any further wrong-bus-stop impulses, I wrapped my arms around his shoulders to create a physical barrier between him and the door of the bus. I was so worried he would still try to get off the wrong bus stop. This protection, also included beating up the neighborhood bully when he harassed my little sister and freaking out when my younger siblings went to the first day of Sunday school. Of course they were always fine but, I thought they needed me. So here I am with Casi at 14 and Tanner at 8, and I still think the kids can't live 8 hrs without Nate or I. I may need professional help when they turn 18 and leave for College or someone will find me physically wrapped around their legs demanding that they still "need me".

Once in Orlando, I went to a cheap Inn out by the Florida Mall. I went a day early, before my work conference, in order to meet an Orlando local for birding the next day.

The experience at the Inn is one I don't want to repeat. The bathroom was VERY dirty, the tiki bar (the only place to eat) was filled with dirty, old, white men who watched my every move, and I had to wait 45 min at the airport for the "free shuttle" while the other shuttle drivers worried about me. And, of course, there is the official warning from a Taxi driver that said "Do not walk around at night. That is not a very good place." The things I do to save $40 bucks.

I woke the next day early, meet my wonderful guide Cheri (who without knowing me agreed to take me on a tour or Orlando). We headed out to Tuttisville for birding, great company, and incredible food.


Alligators from 1 ft to 6-8 ft littered the sides of the trail.

Our first stop was the Orlando wetlands or rather a water treatment plant that encompasses 1,650 acres of man made wetland system "for the reuse of highly treated effluent". The system has a hydraulic capacity of 35 million gallons a day, with seventeen cells, and three distinct wetland communities created to remove residual amounts of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the reclaimed water. When the water is released it has less phosphorus and nitrogen than the water in the river.

While at the wetlands, we observed the fecundity of a wetland through the voice of the Limpkins' monkey like scream, the numerous Gators along the waters edge, the huge number of Herons in all sizes and colors fishing, I even saw a Reddish egrets clumsy dance as it tried to entice a fish to come closer, and I listened as Cheri rattled out numbers, history, bird names, and felt her love for these wetlands.

I saw many new birds at the wetlands but, the bird that stands out, was not a new one. It was the Black and Turkey Vultures at a place Cheri likes to refer as "Vulture World" (due to Orlando's other worlds; Disney World and Seaworld). As I said here and here, I think there is something about large numbers of a specie.

Orlando Wetlands, Christmas Fl; Vulture World

Black Vultures

The Black and Turkey Vulture's are commonly seen circling in the sky (I have seen them many times from the Target parking lot) or standing along the roadside eating the carcass of dead animals but, here at the Orlando wetlands they are known for their concentrated numbers within a small area of the wetlands since the fill the trees and the trial of their favorite roosting site. As we walked by the vultures gave a cute little grunt, spread their wings, and left within our wake.

Known as "scavengers of the skies" vultures were once hunted in large numbers because of the belief that they carry diseases. Over time, however, we have started to define them as beneficial assets. Today most view vultures as one of natures most efficient natural recyclers.

One great description of Turkey Vultures is written by Pete Dunne, in The Wind Masters. I just love how he uses the words "cherub" and "monk" to describe those that eat the flesh of the dead.

"Turkey Vultures are large birds, cloaked in loose-fitting brown/black feathers that make them look shaggy and unkempt when perched. The legs and feet are sturdy and unfeathered; the color, where not coated in excrement, is cherub pink.
The face is ruddy and wrinkled and topped with an embarrassingly sparse cap of feathers. Its expression is uncommonly serene and there is something about it that suggests infinite patience. Huddled on their perches, wrapped in shabby vestments, the birds look like a group of balding monks gathered in prayer."

We then went to Tutisville's most famous restaurant, Dixie Crossroads. My mouth still waters when I think of the red shrimp I ate. The meat was so delicate that it literally melted in my mouth.

We then headed out towards the ocean to Merritt Island. Here we found Roseate spoonbills, observed the incredibly slow and graceful movements of the American Manatee (check out this crocheted manatee on etsy. LOL), went to the beach to observe Northern Gannets dive from hundreds of feet in the air into the oceans waves, and I saw my first armadillo.

We also did the very naughty behavior of feeding the Florida scrub jay peanuts. Our faces are blurred to protect the guilty.

I had so much fun feeding that little guy that I may fall down the slippery slope of feeding wild animals. With what starts as training my scrub jays to eat out of the hand! So, uhm, yea, I got to go buy me some of those peanuts!

I cure cancer. It's good.

2011-03-22T04:48:00.005-06:00

Warning: this post is full of stereotypes.

I was asked the other day about my job and when I gave the short answer of "good", he asked why I don't want to talk about it. Which seems like a good question because, I love my job. I love going to work and I want to talk about it. My job makes me feel unique, and productive within society, and makes me happy.

So why don't I talk about it? ....

After some thought, I came up with three reasons.

Reason number 1** is:

I don't to talk about my job because, most men (but not all), usually, well, don't ask. I assume its because I am female since they do ask Nate about his job. Then, when Nate is finished talking (about his job) they will look at me, pause, then move to the next question*. Usually sports and directed at Nate. This absence of conversation usually gives me a lot of time to think while trying to give the look of no thought at all (because, I assume that a man, who does not think a woman can say anything of interest, only wants her to look pretty).

*OK this only happened once but, still....

Reason number 1: men think girls are pretty.

Reason number 2**: I don't talk about my job because, usually when I tell most woman (but not all), that I work, they give me head tilt (HT****) and then apologize for my husbands inability to make enough money. Which makes me a blubbering idiot as I try to convince them of my happiness.

****HT also occurs when one hears of another's illness or sees a puppy, baby, or baby item.

Me: "No! I love my job. I want to work."

Woman: *look of disbelief*

Reason number 2: Women think working is lame.

Then there is reason number 3**: If someone does ask, and they do not respond with "I am sorry", I like to keep it simple. Otherwise, I will have to deal with glazed eye expression response (GEER), or watch as they become easily distracted (BED, perhaps a genetic response since this runs rampant within the Branch family), or I get stuck trying to teach them biology with a stick and some dirt while wishing I had more alcohol (@#$%@!)***.

** these are generalizations and do not reflect ALL the people in my life.

***Part of me loves this response because if they can get past the biological responses of GEER and BED that means they really want to learn and find what I say interesting.... right?

Me: "Do you know what a lipid is?"

Person: "No"

Me: "Do you know what a cell is?"

Person: "No"

Me: *sigh*"OK. Your body is composed of tiny objects called cells......... (hrs later)" ***

Which brings me to this.

Shown at AAAS (An organization who claim they are "the worlds largest general scientific society") and describes 6 different ways to explain your research at a party. Apparently, this is a real issue within the science community. But, since they did not explain my method I added it below.

Reason number 3: Keep it simple to
avoid GEER, BED and @#$%@! responses.

And that is all I have to say about this but, for those who actually want to know what I do, here it is (a bit) simplified:

I manage a small group of scientist who design and manufacture regents for drug discovery for, but not limited to, Cancer, Diabetes, and Autoimmune diseases. These scientific tools are based around lipids (fatty molecules), the enzymes that work on them, and the proteins that bind them.

Or over simplified:

I cure cancer. It is good.

Do you see Me?

2011-03-19T12:59:00.003-06:00

I have been thinking about how girls view the world.

I, guess, I kind of always think about this. I am a girl after all. And I have a (not so) little girl so I guess, it makes sense that I would.

I think that is why this book bothers me (not that I have read it. I have only heard the author speak a few times on NPR and what ever else I heard it on.).

When listening to the author one thing stood out:

"A researcher told me that when she asks teenage girls how a sexual experience felt to them they respond by telling her how they think they looked."

How they looked? They could not tell her how they felt even when asked again.

Which makes me wonder, Do I feel by my appearance?

We're big Dr Suess Fans!

2011-03-17T07:45:00.000-06:00

I won this lovely card and See's candies gift card on Teresa's blog "Happy Thoughts" (here).

It always surprises me when someone can write stuff, with a non computer like item, and it's legible. Thanks Teresa!

Two hearts: a DIY project

2011-03-15T02:23:00.000-06:00

Nate learned this on some DIY show. We think its the next best thing to a high five.

My arms say "No"

2011-03-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

Casi and I had a little competition.

She beat me in number of sit-ups.

Then, I won in number of "man" push-ups.

We then repeated the sit-up contest due to a disagreement on the rules but, I made her giggle with my serious competition face.

Then, I showed her something that caused flames to shoot out of her eyes. Burning the memory of this moment from her mind forever.

And, I won the contest!

****Proceed with caution****

I liken lichen

2011-03-01T07:04:00.002-07:00

Thanks all for listening to my ~~rant~~ last post. I think I just needed to get that all off of my chest. Now for something a little lighter.

Thanks to my B-tit-E friend, I have become a huge fan of lichen. One day, I plan to take a class so I can learn more about it. Lets just say (as lame as it sounds) its on my bucket list.

Lichen: growing on my very own Gambel Oak!

What I am about to tell you could be described as: TMI

2011-02-26T07:20:00.008-07:00

Disclaimer: this post contains a few naughty words. Read at your own risk.

We have been in our home for 1.5 years and during that time we have had issues with the master bathroom shower. We sealed it after noticing that it smelled like Nutty Putty cave, we pulled apart the seat and rebuilt it after it busted its seams due to leaks, and I have cleaned it with all sorts of various cleaners due to the grout looking dirty and the red fungus mold stuff that grew rampantly at the edges. Lets just say that this shower has has been nothing but a pain in the ass.

Because of all these issues, it was no surprise when Nate saw mold.

He then removed the offending tile and found it was covered in black, slimmy, mold. He pulled off the neighboring tile, and the next tile, and the next, until he was 4 tiles high and had removed the tiles from the entire perimeter of the shower. He also removed the backer board and the sheetrock before he was finished with the demolition.*

In addition to the mold growing rampant behind the tiles, the backerboard, sheetrock, and 2 X 4's ect., during the demolition, ants (strangely enough) also became part of the equation. Ants? I know! It was strange.

We decided that the ants must have found the warm, moist environment suitable for baby rearing and moved on it, chewing up the 2X4's that support the exterior of our home, two stories above the ground.

* the above photo is not the final demolition.

Essentially, whoever had built the shower, did not know what they were doing. Yes! This would be a great job for Holms. The person who built the shower did not properly install the tiles (they pratically fell off) he, at times, did not even use backerboard (I did not know backerboard was optional) and he built the shower in such a way that the water (instead of going into the drain) went in to the floor (see figure 1).

Figure 1: How not to build a shower unless you want to make a great environment for mold, ants, and requiring a full demolition of the shower. (This diagram should not be used to build a real shower)

We feel very sad (and then pissed off.. and then we get sad again).

We feel sad because we have been on a real emotional ride (and we seem to still be riding).

Lately its been a shit fest of bad luck.

Months of bad luck.

Or bad Karma.

Or God just hates us.

(What ever your preference.)

Our luck, has been so epically** bad that our insurance agent knows us by name, we have questioned our "goodness", and wondered about (once again) the sense of humor of that great man upstairs. Our luck has been so epically bad, that I made a list (see list 1: "The epically bad luck of the Branch family").

** considered one of the most over used word of 2010 but after much consideration, I feel it is appropriate to use it here.

Photo 2: Nate watching his truck get towed

List 1: The epically bad luck of the Branch family

Our truck was broken into and $3K of items stolen.
DEC: The tire fell off of the truck, while driving and on our way to go Christmas shopping. This wreck caused wheel and body damage, and allowed me the experience of observing a tire fly through the air. (see photo 2)
DEC: The same day the tire fell off the truck, I was hit in my car while waiting to turn out of the Shopko parking lot. During the accident, I was so overwhelmed with life (already) that I literally just covered my face with my hands and waited for them to hit me. Thankfully, no damage was observed. My car is a tank!
JAN: The same day we finished fixing the truck from the last accident, Nate was rear ended while sitting in the left hand turn lane at a stop light.
JAN: Nate was rear ended (again), in my car, exactly a week from when the truck was hit. At a stop light also. Damage to my car was minimal at $300.00 for a new bumper. The only damage (we thought) was two impressions from bolts on the other car's license plate holder (My mom calls them dimples) in my bumper. The offensive car felt much more damage. Once again, MY CAR IS A TANK!
Photo 3: tarped deck

FEB: Nate started noticing a ringing in his ear that was most likely caused from whiplash in the second rear ending accident. After going to a doctor we learned the ringing could be permanent.
FEB: The deck off of the master bedroom is leaking in the garage. This was supposed to be our project this year, but with all the rain we have received the "leak" became a river and we had to remove all the sheetrock in the celling of the garage and wrap a tarp around the deck so it can dry out (that is a long sentence). I get the lovely job of making sure the snow and rain does not pile up on the tarp (the tarp currently has a foot of snow on it). This issue was supposed to be resolved before we moved in but it was most likely just covered up with a new piece of sheetrock. We (sarcastically) love the previous owners.

And now I get to add to my list:

Number 8: Mold discovered in the master bathroom shower. (I could also add that our computers both broke***during this same time frame. Hence all the late posts after promising I was going to be a better poster)

Of course, Nate and I accept our luck and try to move on with as best an attitude as one can muster after being beaten down so many times. And so, with the latest series of luck, we decide to move downstairs before starting the master bedroom / bathroom remodel (I may be a little bit excited about this).

But, before we can move downstairs we have to remodel it.

To be continued.....

Real men bring home the bacon, then cook it

2011-02-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

About 6 months ago, Nate took over the cooking. I was burned out from cooking (over the last 15 years) and could only produce Burger King for dinner. This is all very important since it's written in our contract that as long as some one cooks the meals, our marriage will remain intact. Now, when I come home from work, I get the "slippers and a glass of wine" job.

If I would have had a computer: Go GOLD pants!

2011-02-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

If Nate was writing this he would probably talk about the game but since I am writing about it I am going to focus on the Superbowl halftime... or what I did during the halftime.*
*because I did not actually see the game** or the halftime.
**I was doing a puzzle.( Normally I watch the game.) ***
*** I may be a puzzle addict.****
**** Seriously. I have issues when it comes to puzzles (and a few other things).

We started out our halftime with a celebration of Kaityns 4th B-day. I think she is adorable.

From Me (and the rest of the family)! (and Grandma Chris... that is a recycled gift / blanket!).

Once the B-day party was finished, Grandma Bev gave the Grandkids their (early) B-day pillow pets. The grandkids have been wanting one of these identity-confused toys for a while and Grandma Bev decided it was her mission to supply them each with one.

A bad photo that captured a great moment: Pillow pets and their owners.

We also celebrated Casi and her 4.0 last quarter.

I was reminded during the last state of the state of the union address (that's right I actually listen to these*****) that it is important to celebrate your kids accomplishments.

When it comes to Casi's grades she works hard and she does it ALL on her own. To give you an example, in addition to her weekday school work we have busted her studying for the 11 th grade ACT's... on a Saturday! WTH! She is a homework animal! A teachers dream. A parents retirement plan. But mostly, we are just happy for her and her accomplishments.

Nate and I awarded her with a purple water bottle (replacing one that was taken from her at school) and a Glee T-shirt.

***** democrat or republican... and even (sigh) Georges.

Casi : our GOLDpants winner!

If I had a computer on Valentines day,

2011-02-17T14:38:00.001-07:00

I would have posted this .

HaPpY VaLeNtiNes dAy!!!

Tanner: "I need a valentine box for school."

Me: "What are you going to make?"

Tanner: "A box with a slot in it." (This is not what he actually said. What he said took between 5 min and forever while I vibrated in my chair and hoped he had a point somewhere in his ramble.)

Me: "Hmm, thats a good idea! I was thinking that a dragon with a hole in his mouth for valentines would be a fun idea."

Tanner: "OK!" as he launches himself off of his chair and runs into the den.

He then cut and glued and dreamed and thought and created a cute valentine eating dragon. All of which, resulted in a win for best valentine box at school!

Acknowledgement (if Tanner had wrote one): I would like to thank my Dad for spray painting my valentine creation and the incorporation of a support system where needed. I would also like to thank my Mom for showing me this world of valentine creativity and for my Grandma Bev for teaching her. I would especially like to thank Casi for allowing me to have possession of the glue stick for the entire period of a week.

Chrystal dragon

2011-01-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

Tanners latest art piece.

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up" ~ Pablo Picasso

Getting caught up: Chistmas EVE to New years

2011-01-24T07:09:00.001-07:00

I am in limbo.

I want to start blogging again but,

I got behind on my posts and I cant get caught up.

Now...I can not post anything new until I post a bunch of old stuff.

So, here is the old stuff.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Snow and lights

Christmas lights in snow. Nate put up lights? weird...

________________________________________________

Christmas Spirit or death wish?

Tanner wore this Christmas hat for the majority of December. To school. On the bus. At home. To bed. He rotated this Santa hat with an elf one his Grandma Chris made. I am surprised no one beat him up on the bus.

__________________________________________________________________________

Christmas in July

Leah teasing DJ with kisses.
We wanted a photo to document
the markings left from a light falling
on his... face.

Me and me Sistah

Each year for Christmas eve, we choose a theme and this year we voted for Christmas in July.

We ate hamburgers and hot dogs. Potato salad and the (forgotten) thrice cooked baked beans. I made my first Jello salad; a 7 layer jello salad. It took a long time to make and I probably wont make it again.

I wish I had more photos of the food. That jello salad is pretty spectacular looking and I want to remember how fun it was to eat non Christmas food. Usually by Christmas Eve, I am tired of ham, rolls, and the traditional comfort foods reserved for the holidays. I guess what I am trying to say is, that it was nice to have a good ol' "wiener" (as Grandma A still calls them) for dinner.

Grandma Bev brought "sparklers" to the party and so the grandkids and I ran like crazy monkeys in the backyard; tossing glow sticks and chasing one another. It was crazy to be running outside on Christmas Eve without any snow.

Of course its not Christmas Eve without Grandmas cherished PJ's.

**Leah, Thanks for letting me use your camera so I would stop hyperventilating**.

_____________________________________________________________________

Christmas Day: Random photo


Look at how cute my hands look!

_____________________________________________________________________

New years EVE

New years eve was spent in downtown SLC for EVE. We had so much fun last year and voted to do it again. Last year we went home early due to the cold weather and so our main goal was to stay there for the new year.

We had a few obstacles... bad food.... freak-in cold weather (lowest recorded temp 2F).... a 45 min wait for trax and a 1.5 hour ride home but it all became part of the fun.

For instance, even though the food was bad ( I do NOT like macaroni grill... not at all!) we were able to draw on the tables. Casi and I had a series of Tic Tac Toe games where I kicked her ass. "Sucka!"

And... the cold temperatures gave us something to discuss as we walked the streets of SLC. like " I haven't felt my toes since ...." and "why in the hell are you wearing slippers, Nate" ... and "lets take trax"

The 45 min wait at the trax station gave us a long group huddle with strangers and a short lived toss the ball game. Which was (rightly) ended by the trax cops. The trax stations are in the middle of a road for silly sake!

And the 1.5 hr drive.... yeah that pretty much sucked but we were all smiles the whole time. When we finally walked into our warm home we immediately started to discuss how much fun it was and how much we cant wait to do it again next year.

It was a wonderful start to the new year with those we love and it was perfect.

We all had turns with the ears.

Three story high ski jump!

Fire, Casi, and Salt Lake City

A great ending to 2010 and a perfect beginning to 2011

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Birding: The first day of 2011

Viewing gulls at Lee Kay Ponds

Things I overheard: Tanner

2010-12-17T08:40:00.005-07:00

An old post: originally written 8/2010.

Tanner loves to cook.

On one night, when it was just him and I for dinner, I asked what he wanted .

His response: salad.

So we went to the store and picked out the necessary ingredients.

He wanted: strawberries and blueberries

I wanted: nuts

Things I overheard:co-worker

2010-12-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

Coworker: "I can not find this file."

Me: "Its in alphabetical order so it would be in the second drawer down."

Coworker: "Ohh, I am not awake yet. I can't count."

Me: "Must be time to spike the hot chocolate."

A month of T's (part two)

2010-12-13T10:39:00.002-07:00

I am in there ... somewhere.

Many months ago, I offered to do a half marathon with my friend Cyndee She wanted to do the Halloween Half. Now, normally... I don't run and so I totally found this kind of funny except that Cyndee does not run either. I figured "what the hell" I will be ok. Since, our marathon experience would most likely be more of a jaunt down the canyon in costume. Now, doesn't that sound lovely?

And it was, Cynd and I ran when the race was being documented by the professional photographers along the route but the rest of the way we chatted it up, stopped for a fifteen min potty break, took photos of our selves tossing leaves and posing at Bridal veil falls. Well, it was lovely except for Cyndee's quarter sized blisters on her feet. That part wasn't lovely at all.

Cyndee and I loved the photographers and worked it like no other every time we saw them. Some photographers even got a pretty good laugh. Because of this, I was pretty excited to see how well the photos worked out. I even paid $45 dollars to have full ownership of them. There are some more here on my flikr account. So make my money worth it and check them out. If you set the photos on the medium size and scroll through them fast we actually look like we are running. OMG! SO cool!

Our "Bitch'in 80's" jog

Our rendition of the "yellow brick road" this is towards the end of the 13.1 miles and we were thinking. "where in the hell are dorthy's red shoes? I wish I was home. I wish I was home"

Seeing with new eyes

2010-12-03T08:13:00.001-07:00

This is the view from my office window. I took the image to document the changing weather.

I love this view. I have watched it for 7 years now. I get to see the weather change, an occasional raptor or flicker fly overhead, a wagon at this is the place national monument run out of control... horses rearing...large dust clouds forming behind it... white canvas wagon cover billowing in the turmoil, mountain bikers and hikers, people play with their dogs, and (during this time of year) the European Starling flocks as they glide gracefully from the light posts, up and over the building, and then back.

European Starlings are gregarious in the autumn and winter months. Meaning, you can only see these wondrous flocks during this time of the year. My sister in Law witnessed the intense beauty of a starling flock last year at her home in American fork. The starlings, sitting in her back yard, suddenly burst into the air. The sound of their wings filled the home as she watched them take off. It must have been an incredible experience. And, it must have been a very large flock of starlings due to the sound she described. She seemed disappointed* when I told her what they most likely were. It was not rare or cool bird but, in my opinion, something rare would never be able to create the awesome display she witnessed.
*She was probably disappointed because I always follow with the identification of European Starlings with "they are a highly invasive and introduced species**". The negativity I have for these birds is a learned response. It is the response of a birder.
** Starlings were introduced by a man who hoped to introduce any bird mentioned in shakespears plays. A romantic and devastating idea.

The European Starling is considered a pest in America. It destroys crops and spreads disease due to its massive numbers but it's also a hole-nesting species which affects native, cavity-nesting species due to competition for nest sites. For example, in North America, the Purple Martin is now widely dependent on artificial nest houses put up by humans, which must be protected from colonization by European Starlings.

Side Tangent. In one of my favorite books, one of my favorite authors, describes the Starling as something we see within ourselves.

"Perhaps we [the human species] project on to Starlings that which we deplore in ourselves: our numbers, our aggression, our greed, and our cruelty. Like Starlings, we are taking over the world....What makes our relationship to starlings even more curious is that we loathe them, calling in exterminators because we fear disease, yet we do everything within our power to encourage them as we systematically erase the specialized habitats of specialized birds. " Terry Tempest Williams, Refuge

Side Tangent within a side Tangent: Starlings always remind me of my bushtits due to this e-mail.

BTit: "I had a thought to the other day I wanted to share with you. It concerns the euro-trash and Garbage eaters :). I was stuck in traffic one day watching pigeons mate*** under the freeway overpass and the thought occurred to me: You know we (as humans) come in and drastically alter the environment. We destroy food sources and shelters and water supplies, and yet amazingly there are a few species that not only survive, despite what we do, but thrive. They are able to adapt and use our man made buildings for their shelter, and eat our food source (ie garbage). Shouldn't we admire these species the most? .... Yet its these species that we consider pests, and obnoxious. And its the fragile species that can't weather the change that we admire the most.

*** not an uncommon occurrence, for pigeon matting and/or a birder to speculate upon it.

Even though, European Starlings, are a pest they are also a beautiful and successful species that can create a visual and audible intensity not unlike what I saw in Omaha when I went to see the migration of a hundred thousand Sandhill cranes.

A group of starlings has many collective nouns, including "constellation, "filth", "murmuration", "scourge", and "vulgarity" I think the polarity of the names is interesting since it reflects the diversity of how we feel towards them. For instance, although in the Americas we tend to think of them as pests and exterminate them, in Denmark they are seen differently. The flocks get so huge that it is actually a tourist attraction called "Black sun". Check out some images here. It's an amazing and beautiful natural phenomenon and is described on the visit denmark website as an "aerial ballet" where "enormous flocks of black starlings, sometimes hundreds of thousands, create fascinating patterns in the sky, virtually blocking out the sun" Doesn't that sound amazing? I want to go and see it. Perhaps my mom and I can work in a birding / genealogy trip. (I would even try to stay awake when you tell me all those stories about my family, Ma!)

I guess, I realized while watching them out my window today, that I actually look forward to seeing them in the winter as they form their large flocks***** and this.... is my call to you, to not miss out on it.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes. - Marcel Proust, 1871-1922

Guest post... Thankful

2010-11-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Casi and Mom's cute turkey place settings

I mentioned to Casi that I want to do a Thanksgiving post and the next thing I knew ... she wrote it for me. Happy Thanksgiving everyone. I hope you ate lots of pie! Cheers!

Mom is thankful for:

My Niece; helping set the table

Coffee
Spell check
her awesome Daughter
spell check
Stupid shows on bravo, late at night
FaceBook
her Iphone
her awesome job
birds
spell check
pie
slippers
wine
spell check
her totally ninja daughter

Big Snow

2010-11-21T21:55:00.001-07:00

Tanner woke up this morning to a T.V. that would not work. So he decided to take advantage of the huge snow storm from last night.

A few minutes later Casi followed.

I then went after them with the camera. Getting a few photos before Tanner busted me. He called a warning shout to Casi so she could pelt me with snow balls.

A month of T's (part one)

2010-11-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

"My 2010 story will obviously contain story's that reflect on the outside world. An existence of observation. This type of relationship with nature will always be a part of my life. Observing. Enjoying. Loving. Reflecting. But for 2010, I want to "up the ante" by adding a physical element. I have a few ideas in my head. Nothing new, though. Perhaps 2010 will be the year I find this missing detail." Managed Chaos, January 2010

That was my new years resolution for 2010. I know, I acted like it was not a resolution, but it was. It was hidden under a new title and format and I did not see it for what it was... until now. *

*Tangent. I have never done any type of new years resolution. Honesty, without truly knowing, I found them to be a waste of time ** New years resolutions, in my opinion tend to make people sad because what they planned did not happen. They also tend to forget about all the other wonderful things they had completed that year. I find this sad and so I have never done one before. Plus, I am lazy and writing one seemed hard.

** I know its very ignorant of me to say this without ever trying it.

But I wrote it and then... it hung over my head ... all year. To the point that when I was asked to ride in the 24 hours of Moab. I had to say "yes" because on January 18, 2010 I said I was going to add a "physical element" to my life.

A "physical element"? I knew what it meant. I wanted to do a mountain bike race. I think a year or two ago I realized how out of shape I was*** and I thought how sad it was that I never rode in a race. A long, long, long time ago (~a decade) I could have raced. I was in shape but I wouldn't race because I cared too much about how well I did. It was easier to do nothing than to try, and do less than I wanted.
***It was this day.

I think part of this was my friends fault. She not only inspired me to write the "new years resolution" but she ran a marathon. A fucking**** 26.2 mile marathon. That's huge. I don't want to ever do that. I accidentally "ran" a half marathon (more on that later) and I hurt for about a week. I think she is amazing for doing this.
****This is a well thought out word. I wanted to get your attention here because 26.2 miles is a lot and I felt that without that word no one would have noticed how amazingly long a marathon is.

I was really freaked out about riding in this race. I had not ridden in soooooooo long and the other girls on my team had long racing resumes and current skills. I guess I felt these things were important. Which meant, I definitely needed to do some training. And, I did train; 4-9- hours a week. Nick, Brandon, and Nate were my training partners and champions (I may have been a little whiny about my biking skills and fitness). Thanks Guys!

The race is described (on the official web page of 24 hours of Moab) as:

Set in the enchanted, red rock desert, most of the course is on an old jeep trail, but it's technical enough that you have to pick your lines*****. All-in-all, it's a very fast course****** with several big-chaining sections where you can push 40+ miles an hour*******. Pro's consistently break the one hour mark on this roughly 15-mile course********. It has some gnarly down hills, 1,360 feet of climb per lap, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the world!******** So, join us on the dusty trail Behind-the-Rocks for one of the greatest mountain bike races on the planet!

My first wreck!

***** This is no joke. Yes you had to pick your lines or risk a 8 foot cliff (and "endo" see image) or exhaust yourself with a very unique grind up a technical course. (&)

(&) I had other wrecks too. My favorite wreck was my last because of my mentality when it happened and how I dealt with it. My mind was a bit off. My body was fraught with exhaustion and dehydration symptoms and so I keep getting a little ... spacey. At one point, I lost concentration and got to close to a huge sand berm that was taller than my head. The next thing I knew the sand berm consumed me as I tried to destroy it with my face and bike. When everything stopped, I was coated in wet sand. Without pause, I got up, wiped the sand off one side of my face with the backside of my glove, got on my bike and started peddling.

For the next 30 min, as the sand dried, it fell off behind me. Creating a small sandstorm as I rode.

****** I "felt" fast...
******* I topped out at 25-30 MPH and I was peddling my tinnier legs off to do it. Large gear and a cadence over 90.
******** I am not a "Pro"
********* Spectacular scenery! On my first lap, I rode as the sun was setting. It was incredible. At every turn the sky melted with the surrounding landscape. I was definitely into it (and distracted by it). At one point, I turned to the guy next to me and mentioned the view. He looked at me like I was crazy for even noticing such a silly thing and I looked back at him with a look that said he was crazy for not noticing at all.

While at the 24 hours of Moab, I realized something about racing. I realized, that, once you are on the trail everything gets really.... simple. There is only one thing to do. No more planning. No more worrying. All you do is ride. Nothing else.********** You just put one pedal in front of the other over and over again. You dont worry about your training, what you ate earlier, or if you slept enough. You are in the moment. Thinking only about the section of trail in front of you.
********** Nate would probably say I should have also concentrated on drinking my water.

In some way, its kind of like having a baby. You plan, and plan, Then 2/3rds of the way in you start to worry about how you will get the baby out (or how you will do your next lap). But then, ultimately, the time comes. The day (or moment arrives) and the ability to worry leaves. You realize, there is nothing to do but have the baby. And so you do just that. And, now that the race / baby having is over, I think I am ready to have another! (*)
(*) Race, Mom. Not baby.

SheMullet
Team number: 303
class: Just For Fun

16th Annual 24 Hours of Moab

Rider	Laps Completed:
12 laps completed Distance Travelled: 178.92 miles Elevation Gain: 16320 ft Class place: 32 Overall place: 230
Sarah Cookler	3
Angie Branch	3
Kathryn Dennett	3
Kelly Sauder	3

Overall Splits Class Splits	Team # - Name	Split Time	# of Laps	Last Lap Finish Time
Team Ahead	45 - Paul Romero	0:11:35	12	Sun 11:49:03 AM
Current Team	303 - SheMullet	0	12	Sun 12:00:38 PM
Team Behind	135 - Trans-FrontRange Masters Express	0:12:13	12	Sun 12:12:51 PM

Lap #	Rider	Idle Time	Start	Finish	Ride Time	Lap Time
1	Kathryn Dennett	0:00:00	Sat 12:00:00 PM	Sat 1:56:01 PM	1:56:02	1:56:02
2	Kelly Sauder	0:00:02	Sat 1:56:03 PM	Sat 3:39:58 PM	1:43:55	1:43:57
3	Sarah Cookler	0:00:17	Sat 3:40:15 PM	Sat 5:18:41 PM	1:38:26	1:38:43
4	Angie Branch	0:00:04	Sat 5:18:45 PM	Sat 7:08:09 PM	1:49:25	1:49:29
5	Kathryn Dennett	0:00:11	Sat 7:08:20 PM	Sat 9:24:16 PM	2:15:56	2:16:07
6	Kelly Sauder	0:01:12	Sat 9:25:29 PM	Sat 11:51:06 PM	2:25:37	2:26:49
7	Sarah Cookler	0:00:05	Sat 11:51:11 PM	Sun 1:48:48 AM	1:57:37	1:57:42
8	Angie Branch	0:00:05	Sun 1:48:53 AM	Sun 4:03:34 AM	2:14:41	2:14:46
9	Kathryn Dennett	0:00:03	Sun 4:03:37 AM	Sun 6:20:39 AM	2:17:01	2:17:05
10	Kelly Sauder	0:00:04	Sun 6:20:43 AM	Sun 8:21:58 AM	2:01:15	2:01:20
11	Sarah Cookler	0:00:03	Sun 8:22:01 AM	Sun 10:06:33 AM	1:44:33	1:44:35
12	Angie Branch	0:00:02	Sun 10:06:36 AM	Sun 12:00:38 PM	1:54:02	1:54:04

	2010 24 Hours of Moab

Team: SheMullet #303From: Salt Lake City, UT USA Class: Just For Fun

	Sarah Cookler (Team Captain) From: Brighton, Utah - US Race Age: 28 (Female)
	Angie Branch From: Sandy, Utah - USA Race Age: 36 (Female)
	Kathryn Dennett From: SLC, Utah - USA Race Age: 26 (Female)
	Kelly Sauder From: Sandy, Utah - USA Race Age: 36 (Female)

Anniversary

2010-11-05T10:14:00.001-06:00

Today is the anniversary of the passing of Proposition 8.

I remember where I was as I sat and watched President Obama elected into office. I sat and watched the election in my home with Nate. I was elated. Then I watched proposition 8 pass in California and my stomach sank. I literally felt ill. I could not believe what I was seeing. On the same day, within the same moment, I watched one wall of inequality crashed down and another built.

Here that same day is remembered on another blog.

Equally, I will never forget where I was, 2 years ago today, when I learned that Proposition 8 had passed, taking that freedom away.

The following night, feeling powerless and alone, I attended a candlelight vigil on the steps of City Hall in San Francisco, after which I jotted down my experience of that evening, after the speeches had ended:

Over the murmur of the crowd, someone began singing “we shall not be moved”, at first a single voice, then another, and then a group. As flame passed from candle to candle, from stranger to neighbor, someone raised their candle above their head, others joined in, and 2,000 tiny lights lifted up for a common purpose. In that moment, I found my voice again, within the community; we all found our voices once more.

The whole article can be read here.

HaPpy (belated) HaLloWeEN!

2010-11-03T09:46:00.001-06:00

It has been such a crazy few months. After the 24 hours of Moab (which I still want to post about) I went into October with a huge list of neglected items, Halloween around the corner, and the promise I gave a friend to do a half marathon. I dont know what I was thinking.

Now as I sit here, I am happy to see that I am through October. I am excited to enjoy the season, rake leaves, and prepare everything for winter.

But before I leave October I felt the need to share some of our costumes.

Casi, this year, was what I call a "contemporary or teen tink". This costume almost did not happen. It is extremely difficult to find tink green in an army green world. Apparently its the popular green this year and Casi does not like army green AT ALL. I finally resorted to a trip to Walmart where we found our first green item. Then later than week the costume evolved further with sporty green shorts and blue and green striped socks from Target. Casi and I made the skirt.I think she turned out adorable.

I was inspired by Casis costume and decided to be a dark pixie. I love a costuem that involves wearing socks on your arms, big blue eye shadow, my old "club'in leather vest", Casi's dress, sparkles, and my favorite color.... black. This is the costume I wore for my work costume and chili bake off party. Sadly, I still did not win the trophy. Ahh, but it was a HUGE upset and there are plenty of people that felt I was robbed.

Tanner, for the longest time, wanted to be a gargoyle. I was a bit stressed over the costume since it would involve painting muscles onto a gray outfit, devil horns on his head, and huge wings. I found one costume available for purchase but it was over a thousand dollars and did not include shipping. After weeks of research, however, I had put together a plan and wanted to start putting it together.Tanner and I got in the car and drove to the nearest Halloween store where Tanner proceeded to the rows of bagged costumes, picked one out, and told me that he wanted to be Zombie scream. I did not know whether to be relieved or sad. After driving home with him in his mask and seeing his excitement, I decided to be happy since he was happy.

I just love the holiday and I will miss trick or treating when Tanner moves on with his friends. I am running out of years. This year Trick of treating was fun in the rain. Tanner and I were soaked through after a few mins with an umbrella. we were the only ones out there and everyone seemed excited to see a trick or treater so they doused him with candied gits. It was fun to watch. On Sunday (the real Halloween) we went to Park city and enjoyed Main street, people watching, and the dressed up pups!

Hope everyone had a great holiday.

CraZy HaIR DaY: Tanner

2010-10-26T16:29:00.000-06:00

Tanner took the crazy hair prize this year in support of red ribbon week, with this masterpiece by me. This year it was close but in the end he beat some girl who's hair did a good representation of Halloween by incorpoorating spiders and a web. Tanners impression of volume meets height was simple and effective. Oh, and don't do drugs.

To: My LDS friends and family:

2010-10-18T18:18:00.000-06:00

I am troubled.
I am troubled by Elder Boyd K. Packer’s General Conference speech on Sunday. It was the one message I heard from General conference. I wish I had not. The uproar from LDS members and non-members is everywhere, so it was not hard to listen. Each day another person gives an opinion on the topic. Today I add my thoughts. I want to start by saying that I think the general authorities are good men who try their best. I even believe that they are and can be inspirational. They definitely do good things. But, they are also human with their own biases and opinions. So I ask, can they be wrong? Of course, the answer is yes. I could list tons of examples where the LDS leaders and the church has altered its views; even changing a view "that the church [has] been saying for the last 2 decades. Yep DECADES!!" And so could you. But this, is not about what was said. It is about how it was said.

And that is why I am confused.
I am confused because, Packard’s speech, for me, was contrary to what other LDS leaders have been doing and saying. It was contrary to how I feel the church and its members are. It was contrary to what I had been observing after prop 8. Prop 8 and the LDS involvement scared and hurt neighbors, wards, and families. Due to this, some LDS members brought groups together to educate and resolve these hurts. At one meeting where 13 gay and straight Mormons spoke “There was sobbing. There were tears. Elder Jensen also shed tears as he listened and took notes to share with other General Authorities back in Salt Lake City. At the conclusion of the hour, he apologized for the pain he was witnessing.” LDS leaders cried alongside a group of LDS and gay youth. Loving them for who they are. Observing and listening to their struggles. Gaining greater understanding for the gay individual and the LDS families that include gay and lesbian individuals. You can find more to this story here. This does not mean that I thought the LDS church changed its views but this behavior better reflected how I feel these contradictory beliefs, between the LGBT community and yours, should be handled. Unfortunately, Elder Packer's talk seemed determined to change that and for what?

His speech only caused pain.
Packard gave a “license to hate” homosexuals or to at least look down upon them. Some have said, “He did MUCH more damage with his talk to more people than he helped. A heterosexual married person certainly wasn't helped by his talk. A gay LDS boy struggling with feelings of inadequacy was certainly harmed - hopefully not to the point of suicide - but it was a bad, demeaning talk.” I think this is true. It will have an affect on those struggling with who they are, what they believe of themselves, and how society accepts them. This struggle took 3-4 young boys last month as they ended their lives. Unable to go on and face the hate and lack of acceptance from those who surrounded them. The words Packard spoke were preached as living scripture; a message from god. There is a great weight to any word he speaks and he sent a message to be interpreted and used as fuel to the bigots and prejudice among us against. And its already starting "There's no such thing as gay people. It defies the laws of nature. It's like defying gravity, don't you know?" I read this in the news regarding gay rights. These are Packard's words. Would you say this statement to anyone you know? Now, how about a gay or lesbian child? And yet, we accept these same words from a church leader who is responsible spread the word and represent the love of Christ. The weight of this, for me, hangs heavy.

I am happy to hear that Packers speech has already been altered on the LDS website. The words softened but the message still clear. Like I said... its not what was said that has everyone upset. It was how it was said.

Angie

24 minuets of Moab: Tanner style

2010-10-11T23:51:00.000-06:00

Waiting.

Getting Instructions for the race.

Tanner is so casual about the whole thing. Everyone is tense and excited and Tanner is going, "Yea. Ok. Whatev."

In their start positions

Can you see the gradient of commitment from all the runners? I think I can even see a little elbow action too. Then there is Tanner in the back row... thinking "Yea, I could sit up there and jockey for a position with you guys but, why, when there is all this room back here.?"

Getting on their bikes.

I guess being last isn't so bad. There Tanner is, politely, waiting for everyone to get on their bikes and move out of his way.

And then finally, the race!

I wasn't there to see Tanner race so these are my interpretations of the photos. I had to eat and prepare for my first ride so I missed his. Nate went, though to support Tanner and take pictures. The story is, that Tanner won when two boys collided in front of him. Tanner then maneuvered around them and took third. Wished I could have seen it. Luckily, Nate's photos are a good second to the real thing.

Good job Tanner!

Tanner

2010-10-07T16:34:00.002-06:00

Tanners teacher asked the parents to write a letter to introduce our child to her. I thought it was a neat idea and can appreciate her desire to want to know about our awesome kids!

Dear Miss Walker,

Tanner is so excited to be in your class.

Currently, Tanner's biggest concern is how hungry he gets before lunch. I was wondering, since lunch is so late in the day, if he could bring a snack to school. Something healthy; like crackers or apple slices. No candy. Our old elementary did this and it was very successful. If not, I will continue to stuff him as full as possible in the mornings and hope he holds through.

Tanner has a passion for the the "X-sports". He skateboards, mountain bikes, boulders, and snowboards. He is not very competitive, though. I think this is why he does not excel in the more traditional sports. In soccer, for example, he had issues taking the ball away from the other team if the other player "barely got it". This is one of many examples where he manages to put other people before himself. This is a neat trait but I wonder if he forgets too much of himself.

Tanner loves the ocean. Well, he has an intense curiosity towards all creatures but the oceans creatures are definitely his favorite. Ask him about sharks and he will probably tell you all about shark week on the discovery channel or talk of something he learned from Zoo books. His favorite fact is that "sharks are made out of cartilage just like your nose".

Tanner is not the most excited reader. I wish this was otherwise. Reading is one of my favorite things. I keep thinking it will come, eventually. Perhaps, he loves moving and making strange noises too much to give such a quite process much thought. He does better in reading if he can be creative; reading in a sing song voice or monster growl usually helps. He also will read better if the book is funny. We started reading the diary of a wimpy kid series and he is excited about those books. Any suggestions for other (more appropriate) funny books would be very helpful in teaching him the value of reading.

Tanner loves math. He relishes in the numbers and adding and subtracting them from each other. He loves art and using his imagination to create all sorts of large teethed creatures. He came home yesterday and drew a mean growling bear. He said something about how you guys are drawing it in class. His bear had huge teeth. Are all boys so fascinated with large sharp objects?

If I had to choose one thing that Tanner loves the most, I would have to say being silly. He loves to make people laugh. He is constantly making strange noises and saying funny statements that I am sure gets laughs from the boys and girls his age.

Thank you for letting me write this letter. I have had so much fun putting to words all the things I love about Tanner. Here's to a wonderful school year.

Regards,
Tanners Mom


Tanner with missing front teeth.

Blog neglect

2010-10-01T09:52:00.001-06:00

I have been neglecting my blog. My posts have been random and poorly written and... I am sure that I am not the first blogger to post these things. The main reason I have been too busy to write is that I am in training.

For a race.

A mountain bike race.

This race.

I am riding on a 4 person, all girls team.

It started randomly. A girl, I barley knew, asked me to ride on a team she was trying to put together. I said "yea".

Immediately after I said yes. I regretted it. I have not ridden in 7 years and with only 8 weeks to prepare. It seemed hopeless that I would be ready. I started reading and planning and riding. Riding. Riding. Riding. And then, rode some more. I bought a new bike. Dropping over $2K. I even dreamed of riding. Not winning, or loosing, just ridding. The throbbing of my thighs teasing my conscience into a dream where I rode.

But now,

I wait. 5 days, 19 hours, 30 min, and 45 seconds, 44, 43, 42, 41, 40... And I am excited. Excited to try. To see what I can do.

If you have 6 min. This video explains the race pretty well.

On a side note: Nate has posted on his blog. Check it out. And the critter making all those nut filled holes in the previous post are my squirrels.

Who done it?

2010-09-22T19:14:00.000-06:00

The Grey squirrels and/or Western Scrub Jays love our mulch for food storage. They have filled our Gambel Oak understory with holes the size of a fist. These freshly dug holes are at a pace of every square foot and every day there are a few more. Some of the holes contain raw Gambel Oak nuts and some don't. I wonder why one hole is better than another and therefore gets the nuts. I am also curious to know who is making and filling the holes. Is it a squirrel or a Jay? Both? Any ideas?

Happy Fall!

The Subway: Zions NP

2010-09-18T13:31:00.000-06:00

[A] mystical journey... [that] involves route finding, plunging cautiously into chilly pools then sloshing, sometimes frantically, through frigid water over and through difficult obstacles.
All quotes were taken from the Zions NP Website here and here.

Brandon, Nate, Nick, Steve, Me, and Casi at the beginning
of the hike into Russel Gulch; Wildcat Canyon trailhead

I have wanted to do the Subway hike since Nate and I did the Narrows for our anniversary in September 2001; a few days after the 9-11 attacks. It was also our 6th year anniversary. This year is our 15th anniversary. It seemed appropriate and somewhat deja vu-ish to return to the orange colored walls of Zions canyon to celebrate 15 year of marriage.

As the sun rose it colored the slick rock with shadows and dept.

Heading across the slick rock towards the descent into Russel Gulch.

Casi and I not ignoring a great photo opportunity

The first view of Russell Gulch.

The route down into Russel Gulth
looked daunting

300 vertical feet went quickly as we
descended down the chute

"The trail then ascends a short distance and traverses for a couple hundred yards before the steep, final descent into Russell Gulch. Watch for the pine tree next to a slab of rock on the right. This seems like an improbable chute to maneuver, however, by carefully stepping down the "rock and root stairway and picking through the loose rock for 300 vertical feet,"

When we reached to bottom of the chute we were welcomed by a cute little pool shaded by rock and tree. We stopped here for snacks and rest. While there I kept looking in the water to see some form of life. I was hoping for a Tiger salamander. This salamander is supposed to be everywhere in Utah but I have never seen it.; in part due to introduced fish exterminating the salamander with in many Utah lakes where it used to be seen.
As we were leaving, however, Casi pointed out the small toad below. I picked it up and Brandon and Casi started taking pictures.

After I got home I identified the toad as a:

Red Spotted Toad (Bufo punctactus)

Red-spotted toads are a small flat toad with round parotoid glands, and are pale gray to brownish tan with numerous small red tubercles (wart-like bumps). The can reach up to 3 inches in length. Red-spotted toads do have parotoid glands (which can be seen as bulges behind the eyes). Amphibian skin is full of glands that not only secrete a protective mucus but also toxins. This is a defensive tactic to make them less palatable or even deadly to predators. These toads are most active at twilight

Which made me realize that I should not pick up everything I little critter I see.

We then started down the left Fork of North Creek. 300 yards later our first obstacle appears; a large boulder spans the small canyon. Nate secured a rope in a sling anchor on the right side of the 12 foot rock and we hand repelled down. It was a sloppy repel, into a small cave formed by the side of the canyon and the underside of the boulder. It is said that some choose to jump this repel and earn broken legs for doing so. We, then had to cross a shallow pool of water; getting our shoes saturated. It was funny how much we hesitated to cross the pool, it would not be long until we were wet head to toe.

We continued down the canyon, following the water way. Entering many pools of water at depts from chest to over our heads. Brandon was often our Guinea pig; testing out the pools for depth and underwater rocks.

The water in the canyon is ice-cold, even in the middle of the summer, but in spring and fall it can be dangerously cold. Even when it is hot outside, it's best to wear quick dry clothing and keep other clothing dry to put on in the shady and cool Subway section. Navigate through or around the potholes. Never jump into a pothole! Also note that each flash flood changes the character of the route and the depth of the pools.

Me showing tons of Grace as I enter the
waist deep pool

Brando testing out the pool

The Second Obstacle; a chokestone in the now narrow slot canyon and 8' drop to a small ledge and then another 3-4' drop into the pool below. A submerged rock just 3' below the surface of the water kept everyone from jumping in. We hand repelled into the water. Swimming was required. We are now cold and wet. Casi and I in a constant shiver.

Our cameras are packed in dry bags and so there are not many photos of this section of the canyon. Right after the chokestone obstacle we hit our third and final swimming obstacle; Keyhole Falls.

As we reached the falls, Casi looks over the boulders into the tight, water-filled, slot canyon, the end of which we could not see. She started whimpering and saying "Mom. Mom. I cant do this." over and over. I knew she could do this. Not like we had a choice otherwise. She was already, cold, wet and shivering and so could not fathom how she would finish this obstacle. She entered the slot canyon and I followed quickly after with our dry bag.

Keyhole Falls - Yet another large boulder obstruction in the narrow slot will necessitate the use of a rope. The drop is only 8' to the water, but, once again, submerged rocks make jumping dangerous. To the right, an old bolt with a hanger is used as an anchor that allows a handline or rappel through the crack. Another bolt extends over the pool below results in an easier rappel, but this choice requires reaching out several feet to grab the anchor.

Casi and the realization of accomplishing something
she thought she could not do.

We then started this crazy, bumbling, shivering, dog paddling, slow dash to the end of the 30-40 ft long pool of freezing water. Speaking was difficult but we of course tried anyways, through chattering teeth to communicate different things. I was constantly focused on one thing, getting Casi through the canyon before hyperthermia started. Saying things like, "you have to move" or "the dry bag is right here" since Casi was using it as a flotation device and, "you can do this". Where Casi said things like "Mom, mom, your chapstick", and my favorite "Mom, Mom, look a frog". Apparently we had different agendas while in the canyon or one of us had lost some of her mental capacity due to the cold water. Hard to tell.

After Keyhole falls with dry clothes and gear added for warmth, at least for Casi and I this was a definite necessity.

The Subway - The quarter-mile passage through the Subway is the most charming segment of the adventure. Deep inside the tubular tunnel glimmers of sunlight trickle into the darkness, allowing algae to grow in the water filled potholes. The green flora creates an eerie turquoise glow that radiates throughout the spectacular chamber. Finally, the crystal clear water splashing through this picturesque setting meanders over polished rock to the open canyon below.

Inside the Subway, just past the third obstacle, is the log chamber. It's amazing how long the log has stood within this canyon. There is also an small arch above the canyon but we did not stop long enough to remember it was there and missed it all together. As they say, you got to save something for the next time. And I do think there will be a next time. Perhaps when Tanner is old enough to do it with us. After a final obstacle we entered the most photographed sections of the Subway.

We then started the long treck out of the Subway. Following the water until we reached a saddle in the surrounding canyon walls that enabled us a way out.

Trying to "waterslide" down the canyon.

Canyon Tree Frog (Hyla arenicolor)
This frog is plump and warty, with a toad like appearance. It has olive to brownish-grey skin with darker blotches present in most populations. A very distinctive feature of this frog is what appears like suction discs on each toe. Primarily nocturnal; often seen along water course. During the day it can be found hiding among rocks or in stony crevices near streams, camouflaged by its color.

The last mile of the hike scrambles up to the top of a basalt ridge.

Enjoying the ice cold beverages we left in the car, this morning, before we left.

Still Waiting...

2010-09-14T18:51:00.000-06:00

for the first tomato of the season .... and this is an Early Girl.

Home grown tomatoes, home grown tomatoes

What would life be like without homegrown tomatoes
Only two things that money can't buy

That's true love and home grown tomatoes.

John Denver, 'Home Grown Tomatoes'

50:50

2010-09-01T09:51:00.000-06:00

How the view of gay marriage is is changing across the states.

Taken from prop8trialtracker.com

"In an op-ed in the New York Times Sunday, Columbia University political science professors Andrew Gelman, Jeffrey Lax and Justin Phillips wrote that while “gay marriage is not going away as a highly emotion, contested issue….perhaps the public has reached a turning point.” The professors cite a recent CNN poll that “found that a narrow majority of Americans supported same-sex marriage – the first poll to find majority support.” But, they write, “this trend will continue” because nationally, “a majority of people under age 30 support same-sex marriage.”
The Times created an interactive map (shown above) to go with the article – which shows the “groundswell” from 2004 to 2010. They also have a graphic that shows the trend state-by-state (shown below)"

What stands out to me?

Utah's standing in the whole issue; the lowest approval rating nationwide. Wonder why that is (said sarcastically)?
The upper portion of the curve caps out at 66%. I look forward to when it caps out at 100%
I love the young people (even if it excludes me ) of 30 and under.
I hope that these findings give you hope, Mercy. I know it does for me.

infamous

2010-08-26T22:41:00.000-06:00

in·fa·mous adj.

1. Having an exceedingly bad reputation; notorious.
2. Causing or deserving infamy; heinous: an infamous deed.

Our cute little canyon has became quite dangerous.

Bells Canyon waterfalls: great view, dangerous hike, police say - Deseret news June, 2010
Man falls from waterfall in Bells Canyon -The Salt Lake Tribune June, 2010
Sandy man arrested after stabbing hiker with makeshift spear, Bells Canyon - Deseret news June 2010
BELLS CANYON SEARCH: Body of woman found at Bells Canyon - KSTU July 2010

Then a friend sends me this photo with the subject as:

"damn, your neighborhood is going to hell"


Photo of a man passed out, Bells Canyon. Beer cans litter the trail. It is noon.

So, of course, we had to go and see what it was all about.

Lower Bells Falls

View of the SL Valley


Tanner, resting

Family picture. This one is frame worthy....?

Lower Bells Falls

I just like this tree/ bush

Bells Canyon Lower Falls, Stats
   Destination — Lower falls
   Difficulty — Strenuous
   Round trip — 4.6 miles
   Hiking time — 4 to 5 hours
   Elevation gain — 1,310 ft.

Antelope Island; fall Bush-tit birding day trip

2010-08-24T07:44:00.000-06:00

Have I told you that I am deeply in love with this place?

Antelope Island Causeway looking North

Red Fox; almost in focus. This little red fox ran across the road; stopping us and two other cars. The wildlife on the island has that effect.

As we left the island, I stopped to take a photo of the causeway, while there Beth noticed these spiders. Their webs were attached to the sage bushes along the roadside. They were EVERYWHERE. I heard an estimate of a hundred billion; after standing there I believe it. We watched as a grasshopper jumped into a web. A spider, the size of a nickle, raced to the grasshopper wrapping it in seconds.

I would like to know what kind of spider it was but, you need to know their eye patterns. Apparently spiders have so many eyes that they have options on how they arrange them; depending on the species. So, I will guess, that they are Orb weavers due to the pattern of the web. Its a generalization but it will have to do.

Antelope Island looking North from the north west side of the island. The straight line running through the Great Salt Lake is the Causeway.

Weekly Inspiration

2010-08-17T15:37:00.002-06:00

As I drive to work, or the kids to school, or the grocery store, or even if I just walk out my home or look out a window I am inspired by the area I live in. The clouds, the storms, the changing of the leaves, the seasons, the wildlife, and the mountains all play a part; always changing and always inspiring.

From the comments section: "When I look at this photo, I am reminded of the song "My Front Porch Lookin' In" by Lonestar. How fantastic to live in a place where you like the view both within and without."

Dusk at our back deck

The anti-hammock

2010-08-15T15:29:00.000-06:00

How do you hammock?

Casi, Anti-hammock-ing - no relaxation found here.

Note: after sanding a deck you have to clean the tub.

2010-08-15T14:39:00.000-06:00

"This mess is too big and too deep and to tall. We can't clean it up! We can't clean it up at all!"
— Dr. Seuss (The Cat in the Hat)

Fight response earns children hugs

2010-08-11T20:04:00.000-06:00

"btw when your parents say "Today we are going to sand all the paint of[f] the deck, it will only take half of the day and then you can play." RUN AWAY AS FAST AS POSSIBLE!""
~Casi; Facebook 8/8/2010

What can I say... sometimes the kids are right. I think Casi may have nailed the issue on the head. In the whole "fight or flight" response to our deck sanding project, I think flight may have been the right choice.

Last weekend, Nate and I got this great idea to sand the deck. The previous owners painted it this lovely reddish-purpley color. And even though that sounds like a pretty bad color, it looked pretty darn good. I would go as far to say that the color looked natural. But, it was starting to peal and we did not want the deck to become damaged over the winter months. Which meant refinishing the deck.

Admittedly, we could have just repainted it. BUT, Nate and I tend to like things that not only LOOK natural but ARE natural and so we decided to remove the paint. Via, sandpaper. Ugh!

The deck turned out to be in great condition. Which brings up the question....Why anyone would paint a redwood deck in great condition? But, oh well. What was done was done.
I think the biggest surprise in this whole day was our kids. Yes, we gave promises of afternoon freedoms that were never fulfilled. We asked that they work hard. We barked orders. Gave only a couple short breaks. Made them wear face masks. I took pictures of them in this dirty state of messy hair, PJ's, dirty face masks, with underwear peaking out and yes, I am posting these said pictures on this blog.

But guess what? Even with all these reasons for revolt.

(This still just amazes me)....

They NEVER complained. They worked hard. Had great attitudes. Which made me feel like taking pictures of them to work and bragging them up at the water cooler. No worries, I refrained. But, I do have awesome kids and they do deserve such said bragging.

The problem is.... I am lousy at sharing my feelings. So here is a video that represents what the kids did for Nate and I.

After watching that... did you sense that I gave the kids many levels of hugs? Because, that is EXACTLY what I did. Oh yea, and the deck looks pretty dam good! BBQ anyone?

Joes Valley:(Almost) Wordless

2010-08-08T09:22:00.001-06:00

Camping

The Group, except for Utah Grandma and Myself, eating lunch tacos. Those unattended tacos are mine!

Camp Pet

Utah Grandma

Emaleigh; avoiding photo opportunities

Boldering

ATV-ing

Me, Nate, Emaleigh, and Casi at "the meadow".

View of Joes Vally from the meadow. This picture, sadly, does not do justice to the view.

Casi and Emaleigh

Mountain Biking

Me, Emily, and Tanner.
Emily talked the entire 10 miles down the canyon.

Hammocking

Emily and Tanner

Emily reading to Grandpa.

Playing in the lake

Tanner sitting on "the big fat president"

Sailing with Grandpa

Fishing

Potters Ponds

Sesame Street: Grover discusses What Is Marriage?

2010-08-06T12:36:00.000-06:00

Overturned

2010-08-06T08:26:00.000-06:00

"Proposition 8 fails to advance any rational basis in singling out gay men and lesbians for denial of marriage licenses," the judge wrote. "Moral disapproval alone is an improper basis on which to deny rights to gay men and lesbians. The evidence shows conclusively that Proposition 8 enacts, without reason, a private moral view that same-sex couples are inferior to opposite sex couples."

And an Q&A article on what happens next: link

Discovering Tradition: 4th of July

2010-07-26T07:38:00.000-06:00

Tanner, Me, and Casi: taken in McCall, ID

I have a confession to make.

Within my adult life, I have had issues with the 4th of July as a holiday. I don't know when it happened, perhaps, as with most holidays, it just became less than it was. Or perhaps, as I feel it is, it was how we chose to celebrate the holiday. Never settling with a specific tradition.

Initially, Casi and I celebrated the holiday together (Nate having to work the holiday). It became ours. A mom and daughter day. Every year, we would go to the West Jordan fair; wander the booths, do a face painting, ride a few rides, sit with my parents, and then settle onto the grass, with blankets, to watch the fireworks.

Nate however hated the fair. I don't know why. Maybe it was too close to our first date. So when, he started getting the holiday off, we changed how it was celebrated. Over, the many years we tested different ways to celebrate. We held BBQ's at our home, tried buying our own fireworks, went to others peoples BBQ's, visited family, went to parks, and even had a year where we drove around; never quite settling on a location before the fireworks started. We then drove home; Casi and I tucked ourselves into blankets in the back of the truck. The exposed sky over heard. For Casi this year stands out due to the ride home. For Nate and I it was a struggle of finding a place to be.

This year we went to McCall, ID; to see friends and to enjoy the fabulous fireworks show over Payette Lake. Our hosts,worked their tooters off to show us a great time. Filling three days with multiple bike rides, visits to the lake, shopping, and a hike to a waterfall.

Payette Lake.
Me, settled into a chair. Enjoying the view and everyones excitement over their chosen activity at the lake.

Tanner on the hike to waterfall

Group bike ride: Casi opted for 5 miles of technical downhill instead of the 20 miles of pedaling around the lake.
On the ride she realized she likes mountain biking. I was so happy over her excitement that it took all I had to contain the impulse to leap off my bike, in full tackle mode, so I could hug the crap out of her.

Right before she wrecked. Look at that grin!

This year we did what most do for the 4th; an evening set in traditions. We loaded up the truck with chairs, coats and hats, coolers, and kids before heading down to the city center of McCall and Payette Lake. While we waited for the fireworks to start, we lit sparklers (adults too), drank beer, found Carmel apples for the kids, laughed and talked, played in the sand, and drank coffee. The fireworks started at about 11:00 pm and lasted 5 min. And they were spectacular.

At one point during the program, I stopped watching fireworks. I looked around me. Taking in the smoke, lights, noise and excitement of the evening through those around me. Seeings smiles, arms, hugs. People brought together to see the fireworks. Another 4th of July tradition. I then looked to Nate with Tanner cuddled in his lap and Casi at his side and I realized, we have a tradition after all. We always did.

On the 4th: Casi, spent part of the evening, before the fireworks started, watching the sun make its way behind the mountains. Water licking her toes.

The finally.

You can almost see the barge where they lit the fireworks. Smoke roaring from its decks.

Bear Lake: By Tami

2010-07-10T07:53:00.000-06:00

Nate, the kids, and I were at Bear lake for an extended family vacation. We spent a day at the lake, mtn biked a 1 mile single track trail, went ATVing, and spent many hours eating. The problem is, I dont know what happened to my camera after Lava Hot springs. I just did not take any pictures. Lucky for me Tami took a few pictures while we were there and that means, there are pictures of me too!

Tami's photo website is here. She started taking pictures about a year ago and hasn't stopped since. I have always felt that Tami is passionate about making people feel good about themselves through their appearance. I started to realize this when she was in Hair school (here is her hair blog) and how excited she was with changing up my look (or anyone else's). She has now has moved to photography.

We spent a day at the Lake. I spent most of the day attempting to wind surf.

Apparently, I sat more than I rode. Regardless of my inability to wind surf, I think I love it. Even after 3 hours of doing much of nothing and having to be dragged back in ...twice while a catamaran did circles around my attempts to catch the wind.. I still love it. It was so much easier with my daddy there to tell me what to do.

We also had Great Grandpa Griffiths's pontoon boat. It makes for great tubing... but not much else. The was some excitement out on the boat but I can not write about it here since Nate's Mom reads my blog and I dont want to get him in trouble. Lets just say that Tanner thought it was "awesome" but the rest on the boat thought they were "going to die".

oh and, Isn't Casi Pretty!

The boys (minus Andrew) went ATV'ing

Casi and Avery.
Oh and that hat... never leaves her head. I started telling her that wearing a hat all the time will make her bald.

Uncle Aaron knows how to make Tanner fly!

Nate, I think she captured him well and I love them both.

Smiths Trout "Haven" ponds: where we did some fish'in

2010-07-02T20:32:00.001-06:00

Tanner waiting for a fish to hit the line.
If you look past the pond and the multiple barn like structures, you can see our truck, trailer,
and kayak.

Smiths Trout Haven Campground has two small stocked ponds. No licence needed. Instead they charge $0.50 per inch. The fish were hungry bitting fast at a hooked worm.

Tanner caught the first Rainbow Trout of the day. He was really excited about it. You should have seen all of us running around with excitement over his poor caught fish; Nate and I trying to remember what our grandpas did when we caught fish with them 20 years ago.

Tanners expression in the next picture is what happens to a boy when he witnesses the fishes eye ball popping out. "That was awesome!" he states. He likes being grossed out. The rest of us... didn't.

Then Abbey caught hers. Abbey did not want to hold or touch the fish. So Nate is trying to get her to stand by it so we can get her picture with it. "Hey, Abbey"

"OK fine! But, I am NOT touching it."

"That IS a little bit closer but, how about the other side?"

(I love how Nate is cracking up here.)

"Just a little bit closer, Abbey"

"Gotcha!"

Casi caught the third fish.

"Hey were did she go?"

Sometimes what you think is a sand trap is really the putting green

2010-07-02T20:28:00.004-06:00

Dempsy Ridge; Lava Hot Springs

"I am teeter and you're totter"

2010-07-01T20:26:00.005-06:00

Smiths Trout Haven Campground, in Lava hot springs ID, has the coolest teeter totters ever. (I know! It shocked me too when I used "cool" to describe a teeter totter.) For my birthday, I want one!

Even Nate got on with the three kids on the other end: Abby, Casi, and Tanner . The result, of which, was free time for me to bird, much laughter from the kids, and Tanner showing everyone how red his buttocks was when it was all over. Thats right, we all were witness to Tanners first full moon. I was quick to put out the fire but I am certain, we will see it again when he is probably old enough to know better.

Seriously. A teeter totter. Just like this one. For my birthday. Me very happy!

A quicky: Bushtit style

2010-06-27T14:47:00.003-06:00

Noun 1. quicky - hurried repair

The free dictionary

A string of e-mails:

Me: "B-tit weekender?"

Beth: "I'm game.......there are spotted owls!!!!! I can squeeze it in."

Me: "I can go for a quickee this weekend. How about you?"

Beth: "possibly, let me work on it and I'll call you"

...and the next thing I knew, I was sleeping on a strangers floor in Ceder City.

Me looking for the owls. Thanks Beth for the photo!

Beth and I got up early in Ceder city and headed for Zions NP. The owl has been seen within a short section of the Angels Landing trail referred to as refrigerator canyon. This section of trail winds through two parallel cliff walls and contains a small old growth forest. The prefered habitat of the Spotted owl.

We wandered down the trail pausing to look at every tree and every branch of every tree. Along the way:

We enjoyed the nest of a House Wren. The excited calls of its young each time the hurried parent entered the nest.
We learned the "chink, chink, chink, chink" calls of the Virginia Warbler and wondered at when we last saw them.
We ignored the weird looks from other hikers as they wondered about our strange behavior. Move 5 feet. Look at a tree. Listen. Listen. Repeat.
We were interrupted by an excited man who wanted to know if we are watching the "tiny, bright, yellow birds?". When I told him we were looking for an owl, expecting him to be impressed, he shrugged and went his way. I did not tell him but, it was obvious he had witnessed his first yellow warbler.
We did NOT see the owls.

So we returned for a second try with plan B: look at the rock wall. After a few minutes of Plan B, Beth found an owl sitting in a small cave. Out of sight from the trail.

Northern Spotted Owl; Zions NP

Its mate and young was not seen while we were there.
We then finished the climb.

On the way down we spotted this beauty:

White lined sphinx moth caterpillar; Zions NP

I love being able to throw a last minute trip together. Thanks Beth for sharing in the adventure. I think that this quicky was a bit painful to both of us and our families but it was well worth it. Now on to Lava hot springs and Bear lake!

Things I overheard: Casi

2010-06-09T17:01:00.000-06:00

Casi- taking pictures
(taken with my Iphone)

Casi: "Mom, I whine more than you."

Me: "No. I whine too. They just call it something else."

The end of another school year!

2010-06-08T07:13:00.000-06:00

I have survived my first child's year of Jr High school. Casi is no longer a sevie.

She received an award for one of three top scoring students in reading. I received a letter the week before saying that she would receive an award. I did not tell her. I just showed up. Then when she came into the assembly room, I waved and waved and waved but she was talking to some kids and laughing, and talking. She sat down about four seats and a row away from me. I still waved. But then, I stopped because, I looked ridiculous. I picked up my phone and started texting "do you see me?" to her, (during school hours- I know!) when she tapped me on the shoulder all smug like, flushed and excited. She knew she was getting an award for something.

The photos below are of her and her friends that also won awards at the library afterwards. It took a while to get them to settle down long enough for a photo. My poor camera and its batteries could not keep up with their energies. Focus, flash, focus, flash...

Claire, Casi, Kenzie

Disclaimer: I know! I should have told Grandmas (and Nate) that this was happening so that more people could have been there. Please, no comments about that.

Has anyone noticed?

2010-06-06T08:42:00.000-06:00

If you live in Utah you may be noticing something,

yellow,

with black wings,

two wing bars,

and a red head.

That is slightly smaller than a robin.

Tanner was certain he had seen it at a pet shop but, it is a wild, naturally occurring bird. They have always been here but, these birds are often out of sight, foraging high in trees; inconspicuous.

This year for some reason (perhaps the wet and late Spring) they have been found, in very high numbers, on the benches and in the valley. It seems to me that everyone is talking about them. Usually the conversations start with "I saw the most amazing bird!"

And they are amazing.

Here are a few interesting facts about the Western Tanager.

The Western Tanager breeds farther north than any other member of its mostly tropical family, breeding to nearly 60°N in the Northwest Territories.
The red pigment in the face of the Western Tanager is rhodoxanthin, a pigment rare in birds. It is not manufactured by the bird, as are the pigments used by the other red tanagers. Instead, it must be acquired from the diet, presumably from insects that themselves acquire the pigment from plants.
This species was first recorded on the Lewis and Clark expedition(1803-1806).
A group of tanagers are collectively known as a "season" of tanagers

Have you seen any at your home?

Things I overheard: The distance between two points can be short

2010-06-02T08:37:00.000-06:00

Thank you for all of the comments on my last post. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed reading your feedback. To think, I almost did not allow for commenting. I am glad that I did.

~ a week ago:

Me: "Wow! You need new shoes."

Tanner: "What do you mean? They just started fitting right."

Today:

Me: "Wow! Your shoes are getting... interesting."

Tanner: "Ya, I need new shoes."

Before ....After

Sadly, I can not find replacements in the same "Bat and Eye" pattern.

Saying goodbye

2010-05-30T07:37:00.000-06:00

"We're each of us our own ... bit of illusion fighting to emerge into something solid, something real."A Great and Terrible Beauty; Libba Bray

I went climbing with Nate and the kids. The first of the season. The rock still had that cool winter chill. I was the first to climb; leading a 5.7. An easy first-of-the-year climb with holds every few feet the size of your palm and ledges to stand on. I laced my shoes. They felt good and I wondered why my feet hurt on the rock so much last year. I placed my hands to the rock. Felt its crisp, sharp edges with my hands.

I start the climb and a sharp pain rips through my toes. I toe in anyways and gave it my weight. "Oh, there's the pain" I think. I continue to the next hold and the next. I clip my first bolt but, I start to hesitate between moves. I begin using my arms to hold me to the rock; not wanting to place my weight on my feet. I clip into the second bolt and continue on. I notice the long pauses I am taking to give reprieve to one foot and then another.

Pause.

My mind races to find ways to convince myself to continue past the hurt. I no longer evaluate the climb. The pauses became longer.

At the third bolt, Nate suggests I come down. I clip in and call down to him. The way down is sketchy, ungraceful, unbalanced. I did not want anything to touch my feet.

Back on the ground, I collapse on a bench and start removing my right shoe. My hands shake. Nate down on his knees, starts working on the left shoe.

My naked feet, reveal what I fear; deep, dark-purple toe joints. "Dam RA has been doing too well." I look at my shoes now lying on the ground. Then refocus. With some hesitation, I cram my feet into a different pair of shoes; one that does not force my toes to take my weight. I start climbing the rock again. I try not to think about what happened.

Days later, Casi speaks to me about it. "It was obvious you were in pain. You never come down from a climb." We make eye contact and hold each others gaze. Neither of us knows what to say. The silence is awkward.

And, I still dont know what to say. About any of it. The event, perhaps, still holds too much emotion, pain, heartache, sadness, loss, annoyance, resentment, outrage, anger, hopelessness, and doubt. But I also feel thankful, promise, hope, determination, clear blue skies, love, family, and happiness.

I guess, not much changed. I can still climb and I will still reach the top, eventually, with or without, those dam shoes.

Also Known As: Sleepydick

2010-05-21T13:14:00.001-06:00

Well I figured it out!

I figured it out when, as suggested in the previous post, they bloomed. Rather pretty, I think.

It is known as Ornithogalum umbellatum or the star-of-bethlehem but it is also Known As: Sleepydick* (my personal favorite and the one I will use the remaining of this post) , Grass Lily, Nap-at-Noon, Eleven-o'clock Lady, Summer Snowflake, Starflower, and the Pyrenees Star of Bethlehem.

*from not waking up earlier than noon. This same behavior probably gave rise to the names, "Nap-at Noon" and "Eleven-o'clock lady"**.

**which gave rise to a piece of herblore. I guess, not "waking up" properly meant this was God's clue to use this plant as a treatment for sleep disorders. It was used for all sorts of ailments from disturbing nightmares to fidgity restlessness to a loss of feeling in limbs. It is useful for none of these things. Well, unless one consumes a sufficient amount ***, which would put an end to all of these ailments.

***its apparently poisonous. Although, the bulbs have been used to stave off hunger during times of famine and is considered a "famine food"; I don't think its very tasty but I am curious about eating one.

Wow that was a long detour. It is described as****:

"a Six Petalled White Flower with green and white sepals. The flowers group in a 'corymbose raceme' with 3-21 white flowers (with) a green stripe. The flower starts out as monocot tendrils, that look like onion or grape hyacinths. Then a green and white striped, garlic-like bulb emerge. After a good rainshower, when the sun comes out, the flower will begin opening the outer three petals, then the inner 3 petals then the six stamen lay down parallel to the six petals. This process reverses by late afternoon."

****Not that I really expect you to read this.

Wait a min.... What? The flowers don't bloom unless it rains followed by sun?***** That is pretty cool!

*****How does it do that and what is the evolutionary path for such a strange set of "bloom-in" rules?

But wait? Whats that?

Sleepydick can "cause potential threats to native vegetation" Now you know I care about that. Its "native to northern Africa" but has been sold as an ornametal and " escaped cultivation"******. I knew I saw it in a catalog once. Gosh! I love being right!*******

****** I can relate. According to my mother, I escaped cultivation when I was about 17.

******* Don't we all?

Check out the map, its taken over just about all of North America!

So what should I do?

Let it grow? It is a pretty cool flower. Should I keep it for its beauty and neat rain-followed-by-sun sensing mechanism?

Or should I get rid of it? Avoiding further infestation of the area I live in (similar to this lovely gem)..but really, does one plant in my yard really affect the surrounding hills? Although, it could eventually cause me these types of pains.

So that is my brain on Sleepydick. And, I think, I know what I am going to do but, I am curious, what would you do?