52 Saturdays

A Random Sat. Fall Activity & Random Sat. #

2010-11-15T16:34:00.034-07:00

We're both busy bees on Saturdays.. and I'm sure our Saturdays have all been fun & eventful. However, some of these pictures are definitely blog worthy, especially these graceful, adventurous hike shots. 4 JJ... ;)

Here are some random pictures of a fun camping trip & Mt. Timp. hike in American Fork canyon. We were lucky to squeeze in one last trip before old man winter showed up.

Some of us are more experienced hikers and not afraid of straying off course slightly... while I hugged the side of the mountain, Amy entertained me by trying new avenues, going where most people have not gone before. A true pioneer, venturing out on unknown trails and viewing the sites from all sides. Glad we both made it down safely, without even a scratch.

Lots of fun camping & hiking in this beautiful, colorful canyon.

Saturday #? Aug 27-29 Surviving The Wild Wilderness

2010-09-15T16:59:00.066-06:00

Here we are at Payson Lakes, The Happy Campers. Despite the thunder & lightening, assembling the tent in a down pour, and the arrest and ambulance in the campsite next door, we had a wonderful time in the beautiful wilderness (wilderness w/ amenities).

Now.. you may or may not be asking yourself... "What do they like most about camping?" For me.. it's the food, the outdoor smells, blazing fires, toasty marshmallows, & star gazing.. + camping with some pretty great campers.

The Happy Campers
Jen
Amy
Samantha
Terri

CAMPING HIGHLIGHTS & misc. photos of...

"52Saturdays" is now an approved word in Scrabble... a favorite game of the Happy Campers

A beautiful tent (Thanks Brian & Janelle!)

Samantha's first time Kayaking.

Amy and Terri strategically loaded these kayaks. Well done ladies!

Jen pretending to know how to fly fish...

Amy is a gourmet cook! Check out our fabulous stuffed mushrooms & sausage dish, + dinner roast & yummy potatoes. It was delicious! Smores for dessert.

Ducks at the lake - no, they were not included in our dinner.. or were they?

Amy & Terri kayaking.

Needless to say, I dreamed of stuffed mushrooms & smores days after our loverly trip.

Thanks ladies for a wonderful time!

#20-July 24 once again... Garden of Eden

2010-08-05T20:11:00.020-06:00

Once again I ventured to Eden for another get-away.. this time my family join me and we had a blast!

Swimming, hot tubbing, fishing, more swimming, games every night until 2-3 a.m. (my new favorites.. Ticket To Ride Europe & Settlers of Catan), boondoggle keychains, did I mention swimming, and movies.. remember the antics of Pippi Longstocking - I'm amazed at how funny they are.. funny for other reasons at this age.. hilarious!

And last but not least... our "hootenanny" breakfast that nearly burned the place down... but it was worth every bite, delicious!
I'm sure the neighbors didn't mind the fire alarm and smoke.

Lucy Golfing

2010-08-05T19:51:00.001-06:00

#18-July 10th What's A Birdie?

2010-08-05T11:08:00.063-06:00

I was politely asked to compete in our company's annual Golf game this year...

Sort of flattered by the request and expecting a bow and complimentary cool drink to go along with the invite, nope.

Hmm, do I look like I golf?

"Free shirt & breakfast?"
"Yes.. I'd love to play, thank you."

Maybe I can fake it?

Our team.. Yasue, Jina, and Katy.

Notice how I'm holding this club.. "Swing batter, batter....?"

Knees bent, eye on the ball ladies.

In a couple spots we threw your balls on the green to help speed up the game... because some people get a little impatient waiting to begin a hole - especially when the line is really backed up.

How did we do? Dead last.. but it was a success to me, my stomach hurt from laughing & I had fun!
Next step: CC ed. golf class.

I kept thinking of this I Love Lucy episode - yep, this was comparable.

#20 July 24 Pioneer Heritage

2010-07-25T12:55:00.000-06:00

July 24th is a holiday celebrating Utah's pioneer heritage. There's a parade in Salt Lake City, a rodeo, fireworks, all sorts of fun celebrations. What did I do to celebrate? Nothing, really.

But, I did have fun spending time with my mom. We spent Saturday shopping which is something we haven't done together in a very long time.

Later that evening we all went to Brian and Janelle's house to enjoy their new hot tub. It was fun, believe me. But sorry...no pictures! (Your welcome Janelle!)

#19 July 17 110 in the Shade

2010-07-18T12:55:00.000-06:00

The highlight of this Saturday was going to see "110 in the Shade" at the Hale Center Theater in Orem. The performance was amazing! I'm in awe at the amount of talent and the quality of the production! They even made it rain on stage--how cool is that?

I really enjoyed the performance...with maybe the exception of the song Lizzie sings about being an Old Maid. Yeah, the subject matter hit a little too close to home.

Thanks Samantha for the recommendation and thanks Jennifer for getting the tickets. It was definitely a fun thing to do!

#18 July 10 Steel Days Fun

2010-07-11T12:54:00.001-06:00

It was American Fork Steel Days this weekend. Don't you just love summer?

The day started early with a 5K...

Terri, Chelsea and I ran the Bob Phelps Memorial 5K, which was pretty fun. Although this 6 year old tried to pass me up a the finish line.

After the race it was a quick dash home to get ready for the parade. I love a good parade--sitting with friends, family and neighbors watching the police motorcycles drive by, the grand marshal waving from a classic old car, marching bands marching, fancy floats with pretty princesses, and kids running into the street trying to get the candy being thrown to the crowd--yup, a good parade.

My favorite entry in the parade was the Families Supporting Adoption trailer. Hooray for adoption! And hooray for Brian, Janelle, and Lauren who walked the parade with FSA and Lauren's birth grandmother, Maureen. They gave out Otter Pops--SWEET!

#17 July 3 Celebrating Freedom

2010-07-04T12:39:00.000-06:00

So the big news this weekend is that my best friends are finally home! Hooray! Technically my parents arrived in SLC on Friday, but it was Saturday in the Philippines. They've been in the Philippines for the past three years as missionaries for our Church.

I'm thrilled they're finally home, so I'm going to count it towards my Saturday of Fun! Besides, the rest of the weekend wouldn't nearly have been as much fun if they weren't home. Here they are...

Nearly all my siblings and their families were in town for my parents homecoming--which was perfectly timed to celebrate the 4th of July. Of course, there had to be fireworks! So I hosted Amy's traditional 4th of July Sidewalk Spectacular Fireworks display.

Here are the spectators...

Are you ready? Here's the show...

Ohhh....awwww...wow!
It was pretty spectacular this year. Especially the finale. You're invited to see the real thing, live and in person next year!

#16-June 26 I love cheese!

2010-06-27T15:22:00.000-06:00

That's right, I LOVE cheese! Especially "squeeky" cheese curds from Gossner's dairy in Logan. I just happened to stop in on my drive up to Idaho on Saturday.

Next time you're in the area, be sure to stop in for a visit. I recommend the rootbeer and mango flavored milk too!

#15-June 19 Summer Tradtions

2010-06-23T15:07:00.000-06:00

This is year #4 in our tradition of Running with Angels at Thanksgiving Point.

My goal was to run the entire thing (no stopping) and to beat my fastest time. I did it!!! In fact, I was so excited about my time I SCREAMED across the finish line! And then wore a big stupid grin on my face the rest of the day. Hooray for acheiving goals!
2010 = 34.25!
2009 = 41.50
2008 = 52-57 min. (I didn't wear a chip that year)
2007 = 38.59

Jen kept pace with me and finished just a pace or two behind.
Anybody want to run with us next year?

#14-June 12 Deep Cleaning

2010-06-22T15:03:00.001-06:00

I would like to thank some remarkable friends who made this Saturday of Fun possible:
Angela L.
Athena L.
Nicole R.
Madison W.
Ashley N.
Janelle S.
Lindsey N.
McKell K.

It is true that "many hands make light work" which I'm extremely grateful for!
Thanks!

Sorry...I forgot to take pictures. You'll just have to imagine their beautiful faces!

#13, June 5--Post Birthday Fun

2010-06-21T15:30:00.006-06:00

So, it was my birthday on Friday, June 4th. And since it's not technically a Saturday, I probably shouldn't tell you all about it. But this is my blog so I get to make up the rules.

My birthday was perfectly lovely! I appreciate all the birthday wishes from friends, family, and even strangers. Of course, wearing a crown and carrying balloons and a huge bouquet of flowers, means pleanty of attention from everyone. Gratefully there was no standing on a chair while everone sings "Happy Birthday." Thanks friends!

Next year...the big 40 will be on a Saturday...talk about Saturday of Fun!

Remember back in Elementary School? If it was your birthday you brought the cupcakes to school? Well, the principle still applies as a grown up, I think. I've learned that if I want a big deal made about my birthday, then I'm the one that needs to make the party plans. So, I ordered my very own birthday cake from Creative Chaos, my friend Cherse's company. Check out her Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/CREATIVE-CHAOS/287202997740

She delivered it on Saturday, and I spent all afternoon resisting the temptation to cut into it. I saved it for the family dinner on Sunday...well, except for the fondant balls around the edge. You can see that I ate a few...

The highlight of my Saturday, though, was spending the day with Lauren. We worked in my graden planting flowers and veggies. She was a big help!

Isn't this the cutest thing ever? She did it all by herself. I guess "fort making" is just a childhood instinct!

After I snapped this photo Lauren jumped up and kept saying "Spider! Spider!" and had her arms out-stretched so I would pick her up. I couldn't see anything at first, but then, sure enough, there was this great big black hairy ugly spider crawling on her chair. We both started to freak out a bit!

We have a WINNER!

2010-06-08T14:39:00.002-06:00

My drive to NY took approximately 33 hours 36 minutes and 24 seconds (just kidding on the seconds...didn't keep track of that much detail actually). So, our winner is....

Jennifer Dean!

But since she is a contributor to this blog, Ms. Dean graciously removed herself from the competition.

So, our winner is...

Julie J.!

Congratulations Julie! I'll deliver your Mrs. Fields Gift Certificate in person!

Thanks to everyone who participated in our first 52 Fun Saturdays blog contest.
Stay tuned...there will be more!

#12, May 29--13 Hours 26 Minutes

2010-06-02T15:38:00.007-06:00

Nebraska --> Iowa --> Illinois --> Indiana --> Ohio
5 states and 850+ miles in 13 hours 26 minutes!
There wasn't much to the adventure on Saturday...just one long drive along I-80.
Iowa is my favorite state of the five we traveled through that day.
And it was fun to see the Mississippi River.
But other than that?
Nope, not much to tell ya.
I didn't even buy magnets
for my fridge.
RATS!

May heaven bless Apple for inventing the iPhone!
It's my favorite traveling companion.

OUR FIRST EVER GIVEAWAY!!!

2010-05-26T15:32:00.004-06:00

That's right, we're having a giveaway! And since there's half a dozen of you following our blog on a regular basis, the chances of winning are really good!

My Saturday o' Fun this weekend will be part of a cross country road trip from Utah to New York. I leave on Friday and hope to arrive on Sunday. I'll fill you in on all the details on my Saturday blog entry. I'm actually excited for this road trip adventure, even though it means hours and hours in the car. With a couple of movies and books on my iPhone, I should be just fine!

So, now to the giveaway...
Google Maps is projecting the trip from Salt Lake City, UT to New Rochelle, NY will take 35-36 hours. I'm going to time it and see how long it really takes. I'm only counting drive time here, not rest/potty/food/sleep stops.

What's your guess?

You have until midnight (Mountain) on Monday, May 31st to post your guess as a comment to this entry. You only get one guess so make it good!

What will you win?

The person who gets the closest wins a $5.00 gift certificate to Mrs. Fields Cookies. Even if your guess is over, if it's still the closest, compared to all the other guesses, you get the prize.

Good luck! (To you and to me!)

I'll announce the winner on my blog posting. Since I don't get home until Tuesday night (luckily I'm flying home) it will probably be Wednesday or Thursday before I post my entry.

#11-May 22, 2010 Am I getting old?

2010-05-25T20:38:00.004-06:00

I didn't have big plans this Saturday, which was nice for a change.

In the morning I had a great workout, cleaned part of my house, and then spent an hour or so on my garden. (One day I'll post a picture of my genius watering system that only took 20 minutes--after years of figuring it out--to set up!) I wanted to get some tomatoes and zucchini planted, but I ran out of time. Which in hindsight turned out to be a good thing, since they would have been tortured by the snow on Monday. But all that bending, lifting, twisting and kneeling really did a number on my lower back. See? I'm getting old!

I spent the afternoon with my friend Tricia, who I haven't seen in AGES!!! We decided to take in an afternoon matinee. And since I haven't seen her baby--cute little Pyper--since she was born, I picked Tricia up. Let me tell you, Pyper is adorable. Wish I had a picture to prove it, but take my word for it, she's a cutie!

So, then we went to see Letters to Juliet. Here's another reason why I think I'm getting old (or maybe cynical or maybe I just wasn't in the mood) 'cause I thought it was completely cheesy, dumb, predictable and over acted. I'd barely give it one star! Sorry to be so critical, especially if you loved it. Maybe I should just stick to action and suspense flicks with hunky heroes?

And do you know what they need in at the movie theater? Massage chairs! Like the ones they have at the nail salon. Yup! I'd pay extra to enjoy a massage during my movie! See...I'm totally OLD!!!

Later that evening, after saying goodbye to Tricia and having dinner with my blog buddy Jen, I was craving a treat. Chocolate cake to be exact! It's probably a good thing that Flour Girls & Dough Boys and Dippidee are closed at 8:00 on a Saturday night. Otherwise I'm sure I would have (over)indulged! Craving chocolate probably isn't a sign of old age--just the reality of being female.

Jen and I ended the day with a soak in our neighbor's hot tub. Ahhh...heaven! My aching muscles would like to thank Jim for sharing his new toy. And I would have posted a picture of us in the hot tub, but I forgot I had my camera. Forgetfulness--another sign that I'm getting old! And then my camera ended up taking a little bath in the hot tub when we put the cover back on. RATS! Guess that means I'm buying a new one for my birthday.

Hmmm...birthday...maybe that's why I'm feeling old!

#10-May 15, 2010 Celebrating a Graduate

2010-05-17T15:42:00.008-06:00

My brother Joseph graduated from UofA Law School this weekend. I went to Arizona to help celebrate his success!

There were some other proud people there to cheer loud when his name was read...
Like Amy M, Joseph's wife...

His kids--Will, Emily, and Banner...

And Grandma Alberta...
This was her 5th graduation! In honor of my grandpa Al, Joseph wore one of his ties.

My sisters and my aunt were there too, along with Amy M's family.

I'm proud of my brother and his accomplishments. He is an amazing man with some wonderful talents and abilities! I'm excited for the opportunities ahead of him! Plus, every family should have a lawyer, right?

After the graduation ceremony, we headed back to Kendra's for a little party. The food--tasty. The company--entertaining. The patio weather--PERFECT! Check out these HUGE strawberries! A direct result of a food samplers at Costco.

And these were fabulous...
Grilled zucchini on grilled bread topped with ricotta and basil. Yum!

#9-May 8, 2010--Adoption...it's about love!

2010-05-09T17:41:00.004-06:00

I spent Saturday morning at a Adoption celebration in Provo. I believe in adoption 100%. Without it, we wouldn't have this face in our family...

Lauren is adored and loved by both her families. Here's Janelle, Brian and Maureen (Lauren's birth Grandmother) walking in honor of Brittany and birth mom #2.

Hey, if you know of anyone looking to place their baby with a loving family, I know of at least two great families who would love to adopt:

https://www.itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/22359584/ourMessage.jsf

http://www.thelorenzenfamily.com/index.html

Playing soccer! She got the concept right away. Maybe she should give her mom some lessons?

Looks like someone else in our family is not to keen on Cosmo. A couple of years ago when Angela, Athena, and I went to a BYU football game, Athena spent the whole time making sure Cosmo stayed away from our section of the stadium.

Speaking of adoption--I wanted to take this little thing home! And then I remembered, "Oh yeah, I'm not a pet person."

#8- May 1, Eden... Garden of?

2010-05-04T16:09:00.038-06:00

If it wasn't for the wind, snow, and chilly temps.. this valley is a close second to the Garden of Eden. Beautiful! And since we enjoyed our last visit (Feb) Amy, Samantha and I decided to spend another fun weekend up Ogden Canyon.

After breakfast at "The Oaks" (our new favorite breakfast spot), we drove up the canyon to check out the famous Powder Mountain Ski Resort. Instead of skiing down these slopes, Amy and Samantha decided to roll down them. A new Olympic sport? It takes some special camera skills to capture the "true effects.. should have filmed them as they rolled along, their laughter was contagious!

Since I was sporting a slight cold (wimp) I decided against the rolling and snow angeling (somehow I ended up with an obnoxious cold by Sunday anyway and should of participated in the all snow fun).

Later we hiked around Eden, played WWii Sports, watched a couple moves, sat in the hot tub during a snow storm.. (hence my cold) and ate a scrumptious dinner at Harley & Bucks.

Thanks Amy & Samantha for a very relaxing, perfect Saturday O' Fun!

Amy (a.k.a. wonder woman) attempting to enter the ski lift via emergency ladder.

#7-April 24, Tulip Festival

2010-04-23T21:51:00.028-06:00

It's that time again... Thanksgiving Point Tulip Festival! Amy, Kyung, and I visited Thanksgiving Point's annual tulip festival this afternoon. These pictures say a 10001 words... (we highly recommend buying the $35 annual garden pass instead of the $10 one time fee).

Later we + Samantha enjoyed dessert (award winning chocolate cake, something delicious pie, chocolate creme brulee) at a yummy fancy pants restaurant in Springville, Magleby's Fresh.

Our glamour shots:

#5- April 10, Cruising to Cabo

2010-04-23T21:50:00.010-06:00

Headed for warm weather, beaches, and fun in the sun with my friend Erin and some of her buddies. I spent this Saturday aboard a Carnival cruise ship on my way to Cabo. My first cruise! We flew into San Diego this morning, boarded the ship and set sail for Mexico by 4:00. After a few hours relaxing on deck, we ate a scrumptious chicken dinner and then... Karaoke time! since all the slots were full, I didn't get a chance to sing "Summer Nights" (Grease) tonight in front of 300+ people, maybe tomorrow?

Some Cabo pictures (Post Saturday)

#4- April 3, Pre Easter Sunday & Conference

2010-04-23T21:49:00.015-06:00

Pajama church.. yes, even on Saturdays. After watching a very uplifting General Conference, I cruised over to Macey's to pick up ingredients and later began preparations for my family Easter dinner.. I hope it's tasty. Here's the "highly recommended recipe.." picture looks yummy at least!

Ingredients
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 (3-pound) boneless chuck roast, trimmed
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups coarsely chopped onion
4 thyme sprigs
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium beef broth
1 bay leaf
4 large carrots, peeled and cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350º.

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chuck roast with salt and pepper. Add roast to pan; cook 5 minutes, turning to brown on all sides. Remove roast from pan. Add onion to pan; sauté 8 minutes or until tender.

Return browned roast to pan. Add the thyme sprigs, chopped garlic, beef broth, and bay leaf to pan; bring to a simmer. Cover pan and bake at 350° for 1 1/2 hours or until the roast is almost tender.

Add carrots and potatoes to pan. Cover and bake an additional 1 hour or until vegetables are tender. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf from pan; discard. Shred meat with 2 forks. Serve roast with vegetable mixture and cooking liquid. Garnish with thyme leaves, if desired.

#3- March 27, Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-23T21:48:00.016-06:00

One of my favorite spring events.. the Dean Family Annual Easter Egg Hunt at my brothers house. We decided to hold it a bit early this year. The weather was perfect for eating my roasted hot dog, chips and root beer in the tree house. I believe I was the only "adult" invited to eat lunch in the tree house this year. Since I'm single, I'm not really an adult.. right? :) The tree house is a three level house with an attic, 2 rooms, dutch doors, a real telephone, a slide, table & chairs, insulation.. pretty cool. If I ever needed a place to stay, this may do for one night.

After lunch we colored eggs, hid eggs, ate eggs (chocolate).. and we had a wonderful time!

#2- March 20, Lunch with My Mum

2010-04-23T21:28:00.011-06:00

Today I dinned at a favorite lunch spot with one of my favorite people.. I took my mother to lunch at the Blue Lemon on Saturday. Apparently Amy and the Young Women dinned there today too. As we entered, they were probably exiting the "Blue Lemon Experience."

And my favorite dish... Lemon Chicken Alfredo. Well.. it's the only entree I've ordered here.. it's still my favorite. :)
www.bluelemonutah.com

#6-April 17, 2010--MORE Yard Work

2010-04-18T16:32:00.001-06:00

So, remember last week when I was talking about how much I like to sleep in on a Saturday. And how disappointed my dad would be? Ha! Double ha, ha!!!

Here's the story! Angela and Athena came up for a visit this weekend. I was thrilled to have them come up for the weekend. Especially to do fun things on Saturday! We were all resting peacefully in bed--Angela and I both trying out our Sleep Cycle apps on our iPhones (see chart below)--when I was awakened by a text message and then a phone call from my Dad! Yup--that's right!!! He's 1/2 way around the world and he still manages to get me up early on a Saturday morning!

But, the cause was totally justified AND he offered to buy us breakfast, so I can't be too put out! So, I woke up Angela and Athena and we made a quick trip to Orem. Uh, yeah...someone is NOT enjoying a Saturday of Fun!

By the way Mom, look at your pretty Daffodils!

And, I'm no dummy! When Brian suggested I bring Angela and Athena over to help in his yard I said, "You've got it!" After all, many hands make light work PLUS they could help work off some of my Christmas gift time, right? And to add insult to injury, I made Angela and Athena walk the 2.75 miles to Brian's house. Luckily we saw some cool things on our trek...

So, then we made up for all our hard work by going to a fun movie--How to Train Your Dragon in 3D at Thanksgiving Point. I was completely entertained!

#5-April 17, 2010--Yard Work

2010-04-10T16:16:00.002-06:00

I have memories (notice I didn't say "fond") of doing yard work as a kid. By 9:00 on a Saturday morning, my dad would have all of us kids up and outside weeding the flower beds or mowing the lawn or planting the garden before morning cartoons were even half over. We'd all moan and complain, but there was no getting out of it.

As a grown-up, I now have an appreciation for the work ethic my dad instilled in all of us. I also have a deep and abiding LOVE for sleeping in on a Saturday morning.

And since I don't have kids to haul out of bed or drag away from cartoons on a Saturday morning...

And since I don't really have much of a yard to really worry about (but more on that in a future post)...

I take every opportunity to enjoy the luxury of sleeping in on a Saturday!

I'm sure my dad is shaking his head in sad disappointment.

I was just rolling my body out of bed and not fully awake when Brian called and asked "So, what are you doing for your Saturday of fun?"

I wasn't quite quick enough with a good answer (or excuse), so my resulting reply to the question, "Could you come help with my yard?" was a (willing?) "Sure, no problem." After all, I owed him! I had gifted Brian and Janelle five (or was it 8? Or 10? Or 14?) hours of my time as my Christmas gift.

So, that's how I spent some of my Saturday of Fun time--Working with Brian and Janelle on their back yard--slaving away at yard work, just like when I was kids!

#4-April 3, 2010--Easter Weekend in NV!

2010-04-03T16:38:00.009-06:00

Brian, Janelle, Lauren and I drove down to Henderson, Nevada to spend Easter weekend with Max, Brityn, and Madeline. We had fun on Saturday being together and doing Easter things like decorating eggs, listening to conference, doing a craft, hunting for eggs and eating yummy food. The little girls were so cute! It's fun to see them play together.

#3-March 27, 2010--iPhone Fun!

2010-03-20T16:20:00.000-06:00

My reward for getting my house completely clean (see #2) was the following PRIZE...

I've been waiting two years to get my iPhone. And it's sad that a possession can make me so happy! Now I can play Scrabble with Jen. And if Jen could just get one, we could play Scrabble at church--ummm, just kidding. We would NEVER play Scrabble at church.

#2-March 20, 2010--Spring Cleaning!

2010-03-20T01:00:00.000-06:00

I've been counting down the Saturdays until I could start deep cleaning my house. And boy, did my house need it! With every Saturday for the past year being filled with fun activities, I haven't had the time to get it really, truly, deep down in every nook and cranney, cleaned.

Since it was too big a job to do it all by myself, I bribed (with money and food) a few of my favorite people to come help me.

Madison, McKell, and Ashely came to help--which definitely added to the fun of cleaning my house. I think my expectations were a little unrealistic, because we didn't get everything on the list checked off. That's okay because there's always next Saturday, right?

P.S. We went for lunch at the Blue Lemon in Alpine. It's one of the best places for a meal in Utah County. Plus, they have Nanimo Bars!

#1-March 13, 2010--We begin again!

2010-03-15T19:41:00.006-06:00

We started Year Two the way we started Year One--SNOW SHOEING in Midway, Utah. This time we took friends...

Chelsea, Terri, Kyung, Jen, & Amy!

Amy kept promising that we were almost to the top. And when we finally got there, five starving women ate lunch.

On our way down, we stopped in a meadow to play...snow angels, snow ball fights, white washes, igloos, snowmen...okay, really just the angels.

Here's our fearless leader! She set a great pace!

And see the top of the mountain? Yes...we climbed up that, plus some!

To see how it all began, click here...http://52funsaturdays.blogspot.com/2009/03/saturday-1-march-14-2009.html
To see the first time Jen and Amy climbed this mountain, click here...http://52funsaturdays.blogspot.com/2010/02/saturday-49-february-13-2010.html

#52-Saturday, March 6, 2010

2010-03-10T21:39:00.008-07:00

OUR BIG FINALE TO (the first round of) 52 FUN SATURDAYS!

We ended our first round of 52 fun Saturdays in a big, spectacular and outrageously fun fashion! We have pictures to prove how much fun we had! Our theme for the day? Two of the four elements—WATER & WIND!

The water? Jen surfed! The wind? Amy flew!

(We have videos of us both, but they are probably too bit to post in a blog. We'll keep trying, because they were a lot of fun to make.)

In typical Jen and Amy style, we ended the day with one of our favorite activities. But of course, being #52, we couldn't do things the plain old fashioned way, we did extravagantly in 3D! We highly recommend Alice in Wonderland with Johnny Depp! Yeah!

Saturday # 51 SWA

2010-03-01T21:34:00.029-07:00

Spontaneous Weekend Adventure!!
It begin with a phone call. Jennifer called Amy Friday afternoon, at the spur of the moment, while humming show tunes to herself.
"Hello Sister Smith."
"Well, Heelllo, Sister Dean." (Yes this is how we always address one another.)
"Guess What?"
"What?" (Okay, there may have been some other dialogue, but we're getting to the point here.)
"I was just handed a key to a condo to Eden, Utah!"
"Where the heck is Eden?"
"I have no idea! But it's for tonight only."
"Let's GO! And let's get Samantha to go with us!"

So, we SPONTANEOUSLY made a quick decision and left work as soon as possible to pack our bags. We started our adventure after a lovely dinner at Magelby's Fresh in Springville with friends (thanks Jim!), then dashed to our car and drove 1.5 hours to Eden (Eden is nestled in the quaint mountain glen of Odgen Canyon a popular 2002 Winter Olympic venue).

Even though we arrived at 11:33ish, we stayed awake anxiously engaged in playing "Settler's of Catan" (a strategic game of community building and resource collecting). Our friend Samantha, newbee to the game, skillfully ran us out of Catan! We call for a rematch!

We turned in for a cat nap before our "Saturday o' Fun" really began ("Aahh.. the comfort of a King bed, all to myself," says Jennifer).

After our naps, we awoke bright and early in search of the HOT TUB, while Samantha slept in (smart girl!). However, Jennifer was the only one who indulged in the HOT TUB, because SOMEBODY, "A BODY" forgot her bathing suit and wasn't wiling to soak in her PJ's. Too bad! So sad! (Jennifer wouldn't let me insert the picture of her in the hot tub, even though it was a perfectly decent, not too much skin photo.)

Our attempt to spontaneously jump from the balcony was captured on film. Luckily, there are some stupid yet spontaneous things we just don't follow through with...

BREAKFAST TIME
We left the condo and headed back down the canyon where we spontaneously decided to have breakfast at a little diner called, "The Oaks." We indulged in cheese omelets topped with avocado, sprouts, and the best, gosh, darn salsa this side of.... somewhere. Oh, and did we mention the thick slices of wheat toast? Yummy!

(Please note the Canadian flag in the photo! Our tribute to the 2010 Winter Olympics and foreshadow of events to come...)

We mad-dashed it down the canyon and South on I-15 (of course going the speed limit) to Highland so Amy could arrive at her appointment by noon (see previous Saturday post about Cobble Creek Spa) and that's where we all went our separate ways.

Stay tuned for Saturday #51 part two (individual posts).

Saturday #50 Avoid Quilting Mistakes

2010-02-25T14:50:00.032-07:00

I recommend the "Beginner's Top Flops & Solutions" guide to get you through some tough situations.

Amy has quilting skills. Over a year ago she offered to share these skills and teach me how to make a quilt. We are both making a "block a month" quilt. Hooray for talented, domestic friends. Thanks for teaching me Sister Smith! We're in the final stretch now and we hope to wrap these up next month? But... this Saturday I had some hiccups with my October block.

The pattern looks simple, however my sewing machine (from the speciality sewing store... "Costco") flashed a "technical issue, please stand by" alert. Okay? Basically, all I really needed to do was swap "feet" and shift into another gear but I didn't realize this until after I spent a few hours tinkering with the machine and sewing random, pretty stitches on my October pumpkin scraps.

So, to help keep me motivated today, I decided to consult the beginner's quilting guide..

"The most common mistake of beginning quilters is strangely the reason that attracted them to the art - the pattern. While visiting a museum or flipping through a book, they see a quilt that ASTOUNDS them. They want to make that quilt and they want to make it NOW."

"Your first quilt is a reflection of who you ARE at this MOMENT in time. (LOL!) The pattern, the fabric, the quilting design all reflect who YOU ARE right now (I am a giant pumpkin square). Included with that are your mistakes. Love them. Appreciate them. Without them, you will not be able to see your growth" (I do like button holes, even without the buttons).

I'm enjoying this new hobby! I don't know if this quilting thing "ASTOUNDS" me, but I'm going to at least put down on my "wife's resume" that I have quilting skills, at this "MOMENT IN TIME."

Saturday #50-February 20, 2010

2010-02-21T22:56:00.018-07:00

Youth Conference--Heber Valley
I love my calling with the Young Women.

They are a fun bunch to hang out with, even when we're camping in freezing cold temperatures in the middle of winter! I love my leader friends too. They are just as much fun to be with as the girls!

Heber Valley Camp is a beautiful place! Especially in the winter and everything coated in white. It really is an "outdoor temple without a roof!"

We stayed in cabins that were "heated" by this itty-bitty heater. We loved our little heater! It didn't give off much heat, but it was a comfort to know it was there. I'd say most of us weren't 100% prepared for winter camping. So, a few of the girls huddled together and played games to stay warm.

We played outside most of the day. We enjoyed all the outdoor winter activities--sledding (I even took my turn on the sleds-I'm holding the yellow one), making snow angels, and of course the obligatory "white wash!"

And how many kids can fit into a big, old sled?

Which then begs the question, how many kids break their arm? But if he hadn't broken his arm, he probably wouldn't have received this huge bear hug from his concerned older brother... awwwww!

Out Here in the Snow...

So press forward, my friend, with a brightness of hope,
Whether life's journey at times is uphil or down slope.
You'll have ups and downs and so will your friends;
Help them walk life's path wherever it wends.
For wending and sinding you'll walk on your way
Until you get back to the place you will stay,
A place we'll call Home when at last we are there,
A kingdom of glory where we can be heir
To all of the blessings and joys God intends,
And be with our loved ones and family and friends,
The folks that we journeyed with down here below,
The same ones who helped us...out here in the snow.

Saturday #49-February 13, 2010

2010-02-13T10:53:00.016-07:00

Jennifer and I went snowshoeing at the Wasatch Mountain State Park up near Heber. We rented snowshoes and then hit the 3 mile long Visitor Center Loop.

1200+ calorie burning activity.

Saturday #48-February 6, 2010

2010-02-06T10:33:00.001-07:00

Visiting with Rachel & Lottie...
On Saturday I spent some time with two of my favorite people...Rachel and Charlotte! Rachel is my cousin and Lottie is her daughter and they live in Milan, Italy. It's always a treat to have them visit! Lottie is so much fun! She has a big personality in such a tiny body. I think she and I are going to be the best of friends...even though she lives so far away! I have a cute video clip of her...sorry that it's sideways...

Painted toes...
It's a tradition for Rachel and I to get a pedicure when she comes to visit. Teresa (my aunt) came with us and it was fun to visit while getting pampered. I went with a sparkle grey/taupe color which wasn't quite as dark as I had hoped for. Teresa got red for Valentine's Day and Rachel (her feet are in the multi colored flip flops) went with a bright pink/red color. I always have polish color regret, especially after seeing their cute toes! Maybe next time I'll go with the bright green I was originally contemplating.

Saturday #47-January 30, 2010

2010-01-30T10:31:00.001-07:00

Cross Country Skiing--Jen, Terri and Amy

A pretty perfect day!

Saturday #46-January 23, 2010

2010-01-24T20:07:00.002-07:00

Usually, I plan out my Saturday activities well in advance. For example, Jen and I planned a couple of weeks ago our fun things for January 30 and February 13 and I'm really looking forward to them!

This Saturday was no exception. I had fun things planned. I even passed on a few invitations to do fun things because I was already committed to my original activities.

But then life throws a curve ball and things get dicey and plans all get shot to heck. And I've discovered, THAT'S OKAY! In fact, doing nothing every once in a while is necessary! And so, this Saturday, the extent of my fun was sitting on my couch and catching up on all my DVR'ed shows. The down time was needed and now I think I can face the rest of my life--or at the very least, the next week.

Saturday #45-January 16, 2010

2010-01-22T19:00:00.005-07:00

I'm following Jen's lead and spent a fun Saturday afternoon with my neice.
This is Lauren. She is 2.
And she makes me smile!

So, off we went to the mall for some fun adventures.
Only ours were a bit different then Jen & Abby's...

First we threw pennies into the fountain near Macy's. Lauren LOVED it! She giggled and squeeled every time she threw in a penny. It was the happiest $1.00 in pennies I've ever spent.

Basically I just followed Lauren's lead to see what she wanted to see...cool indian artifacts...or a pin wheel pen...

Lauren had fun looking at the Build-A-Bear store, but wasn't interested in getting one herself. (Saved me $40! Whew!) And she loved the duckies on display at Bath And Body Works.

We probably spent 20-30 minutes in the Disney store looking at all the fun things there. Aunt Amy had to try on a pair of ears...

We stopped for lunch at Pretzelmaker, of course! (For those who don't know, I use to do marketing for Pretzelmaker franchises. I love pretzels and was really sad when the business was sold to a company in NYC! Really, there is nothing better than warm bread with butter and salt! Yummm!)

And then we spent some time in the tree house at the far end of the mall. Well, Lauren spent time in the tree house. I ran around trying to keep my eye on her and grab some photos, while trying NOT t0 running over the half a billion other little kids who were all there too!

Lauren and I have lots in common! One thing we both love...SHOES! We stopped at Payless and she tried on a few pairs. Cute white sandles with a bit of a heal, and then these blue and pink water shoes which were probably 3 times bigger than her foot. I laughed so hard watching her try to walk in them. I think she wanted a HSM purse...another thing we both love (purses, not HSM)...but Aunt Amy couldn't be pursuaded.

After the mall, we stopped at a few other stores on the way home. At JoAnn's we found this fun pin wheel that was Lauren's prize for the day. We had fun taking turns huffing and puffing to make it spin and I was reminded about the importance of simple pleasures.

It was a fun day! And something I'm sure we will do again...

The End...

Saturday # 45 BYU Museum of Art & A Cherry Tart

2010-01-19T22:15:00.085-07:00

Today I decided to experience the arts.. both the visual and the "eatable." So I drove to Cougarland to visit BYU's art museum. Couple exhibits going on right now, "American Dreams" and a photography exhibit that I loved! And, I was thrilled to see this painting by the Danish artist, Carl Bloch.

Christ Healing the Sick at Bethesda

Not allowed to take pictures in the galleries..
but it was okay to take a picture of this "thingy" in the middle of the lobby.
LOVE!
I LIKE IT!

A few highlights from the American Dream exhibit.. "Summer Time" and "Yankee Doodle" by Norman Rockwell.. an all American. A few pieces by Andy Warhol, including a Marilyn Monroe silkscreen print. Also, in another exhibit, several Rembrandt etchings dated from the 1600s. AND, someone's scriptures. It's ART!?

The photography exhibit was the highlight. I'm still trying to figure out what "oil on panel" means. It's a technique used to create this type of photo/painting (maybe). Up close this picture looks like a painting, but the detail is so remarkable I thought it was a photograph.

Is it an oil painting or a photograph? Can't tell. Whatever it is, it's fabulous and "there's a lot more where that came from."

Later, as far as the "eatable art," I attempted to make a delicate looking "Staked Puff Pastry" (something I saw on the Food Network). Mine turned out to be an oversize cherry tart. Huge! I could have fed the masses, and I enjoyed all two bits of it.

Saturday # 44 A Day with a Cute Beehive

2010-01-19T21:50:00.011-07:00

After a call for help (a ride to the mall) I was thrilled to pick up my adorable niece (a brand new “Beehive”) and drive her to Orem to buy this… check out this cute knit headband from Tai Pan Trading.

Abby saved her money and really wanted one of these beauties, and since I fell in love with them too, I grabbed the sea-foam-blue band and Abby picked up a turquoise one. I’m glad I invested in this fashionable accessory, my ears are now toasty warm.

Next, we stepped into the “hot spot” for teen fashion ...Aeropostale. Love this store and since there was a huge 70% off sign dangling from the window I told Abs that we better scope it out and try on the latest trends.

I soon realized that Aeropostale’s size “medium” was similar to a size “xsmall” at JCPenney’s, ops…. aah, I mean Macy’s. But I wasn’t completely out of luck… I moved up a few sizes and found something that fit without splitting up the back.

Since this was a “Buy Two For $20” deal we decided to purchase two of these shirts to help keep the economy going. One for each of us. And wouldn’t you know… we picked out the exact same shirt, same color and all! Abby has a great eye for fashion and I followed her lead. Love it! I can’t wait to wear these to our next family party! Right Abs? ;)

Last but not least, we ended our outing at this tasty place.. “Noodles.” Abby ordered the Mac & Cheese and I tried their Pad Thai. Yummy! AND, we both wore our new matching headbands inside. I was a bit nervous though.. a few ladies gave us the “I want your headband look” so we sucked up our noodles pretty fast and made a mad dash for the door. I told Ab to keep running, and not look back… she did and we made it home safely, with headbands still on head.…. nahh. ☺

Thanks for a wonderful day Abby (my new fashion consultant)! I had a blast!

P.S. Due to a recent ice-skating incident, my camera was smashed… along with a new crack in my tailbone. Unfortunately no actual photos were taken of this particular Saturday – you’ll just have to take my word for it, with or without photo documentation.

Blog Background Comment

2010-01-11T12:47:00.004-07:00

I love Blue and Yellow! They are my favorite colors. But I'm not loving this background. I think it's the grid pattern on the yellow that's driving me nuts. Anyone else have an opinion? Anyone have a favorite spot for free blog backgrounds--besides Cutest Blog on the Block? And does anyone know where I can find a countdown clock for blogs? Similar to the baby birth count down...but obviously not that one specifically!

And don't you love it when you click the spell check and it comes back with "No misspellings found"? Yeah!

Saturday #44-January 9, 2010

2010-01-10T22:00:00.003-07:00

So, last week I enjoyed a bit of beauty pampering and time with my sisters. This Saturday, the theme continues with a visit to Krista Eastman at Cobble Creek Retreat. Krista is a Master Esthetician and Cobble Creek Retreat is the spa she runs out of her home in Highland. You can check out her blog: http://cobblecreekretreat.blogspot.com/.

I found a brochure for Krista and CCR at the gym just before the holidays. I was impressed with her pricing and range of services (someday I might do a blog about ear candling!) so I sent an email request for an appointment. Within minutes Krista called me back and we arranged for a Microdermabrasion Facial and Sugar/Mud Body scrub and mask. I LOVED both!

Sorry...no pictures of either experience--it's kind of hard to take a picture of yourself when you're covered in mud and wrapped like a mummy in plastic and sheets or when your face is gooped up with lotions and potions! But I'm a fan! Don't be surprised if I mention Krista and CCR in future Saturday posts. It's part of my 2010 goal to put my best face forward!

What else made Saturday fun? Saturday night I went with Sam and Jen to see...

Sherlock Holmes! Any movie with Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law is bound to be good! And this movie lived up to the hype for me. I think we can chalk this up to another Saturday of Fun!

Saturday #43-January 2, 2010

2010-01-08T14:37:00.014-07:00

Sister's Day Out! Yup, that was what I did on Saturday #43...the first Saturday of 2010. It was Kendra's birthday so we celebrated with a bit of beauty pampering, a bit of shopping, a bit of food!

Beauty Pampering (Maybe pampering isn't quite the right word...torture?)
Angela and Kendra introduced me to the wonder of threading. Ever heard of it? Have you ever taken a rubber band, twisted it up and then released it into someones hair? No? Yeah, me neither. But some kid in Jr. High did it to a girl sitting in front of him and it wasn't pretty! All her hair got tangled in the rubber band and the only way to get it out was by cutting a huge chunk of her hair off. Poor thing basically had a bald spot the rest of the school year. Not nice...not pretty! But, the concept applies to treading.

The technician (Natasha-who was excellent by the way) twists up some tread and then releases it on the hair. When she reapplies the tension in the tread it pulls the hair out. Quick and painless! Well, almost painless. And it doesn't hurt the skin like waxing can.

If you are in the Phoenix/Mesa/Tempe area and want to get your eyebrows done, go to India Bazaar, 933 E. University Dr., #115, 480-334-5579. It's only $8 to get your eyebrows done! Anyone know a good threading place in Utah?

So here's a picture of me getting my eyebrows and upper lip threaded...

Not to be left out, here are some photos of Angela and Kendra. Kendra was going to wimp out and not do her upper lip, but Natasha offered to do it for her as a birthday gift.

Shopping!
We went to Nordstrom's Last Chance to bargain shop for clothes and shoes. I got a couple of skirts on sale for $8.50 and some sweaters for $15.00. I also came home with a pair of New Balance running shoes for $12.50. Yup! Definitely bargains! But finding space in my luggage for these last minute purchases was a bit of a problem! Both sisters found fun things too. Too bad I don't have a picture of us with all our purchases.

Food!
For the second Saturday in a row I enjoyed some Thai food. No elephants at this place though. As always, the food was yummy. I'm a huge fan of the coconut soup and massaman curry. Wow! Just thinking about it is making my mouth water. At the end of the meal we all got fortune cookies. Mine wasn't a fortune as much as it was a statement..."Love is the most valuable thing in life." So true!

LOVE!
So since it was her birthday on Saturday, let me tell you about my sister Kendra and why I love her. Kendra is just 18 months younger than I am. I think the earliest memory I have of her is when I was about 4 and she was 3. I had her stand against the brick wall in our basement and using the grout line between the bricks as a guide, attempted to cut her hair. I thought I was being clever and creative. But, basically when I was done I'd pretty much chopped off all her lovely long locks-and ended my career potential as a hair stylist.

Some of my favorite memories with Kendra have been our trips together--like a weekend camping trip to Zion's National Park ("Death race to the bottom!" and "A swamp in the desert? Yes!") and to England ("Nice phone box!").

And did I mention how creative and talented my sister is? She has more creative ability in her little finger than anyone I know! I have beautiful glass panels in my kitchen because Kendra took an idea out of a magazine and made it a reality for me. A couple of years ago she stocked my jewelry box with hand-made glass bead necklaces and earrings. And she sponsored, designed, choreographed, produced, advertised and managed two Dance-For-A-Baby fundraising shows to help raise adoption money for Angela & Tim and Brian & Janelle.

Kendra and I have different personalities and beliefs, but our relationship as sisters binds us together and gives us the common ground to develop a loving and respectful friendship. I admire and love my beautiful, talented, and amazing sister Kendra!

Happy Birthday Kendra!
For her birthday cake Angela and I attempted an Ace of Cakes-like creation...but not quite as extreme! I think it turned out pretty good.

Sat. # 41 Wrapped in "swaddling clothes?"

2010-01-03T19:54:00.039-07:00

Ahoy “Sat o’ Fun” readers! An entry dedicated to those 3 folks wondering about my next tale. :)
Sorry "me hearties"... my ship log isn’t up to date, I’ve been preoccupied and thoroughly entertained by reading Amy’s tales.

Today, a few of my favorite things….
1. Family Christmas parties
2. Children nativity plays
3. An angel for "world peace"

4. A teddy bear wrapped in “swaddling clothes”… or, a towel
5. One wise woman
6. Two reverent wise men bowing to a Teddy Bear
7. One sleepy shepherd

8. An angel with a loose tooth
9. A dancing Joseph & giggling Mary

10. White elephant gifts & silly string!
11. Singing Christmas carols with laughing nieces and nephews.

and.. spending the holidays with my family!

All this = priceless!

Saturday #42-December 26, 2009

2009-12-30T19:44:00.005-07:00

Happy Boxing Day friends! I hope your Christmas celebrations were festive and blessed. My Christmas Day was perfect-I'm in Arizona on vacation and spent the holiday with Angela, Tim, Athena, and Tim's family. The food? Yummy (prime rib and cinnamon pears). The visit with family and friends? Fun and entertaining (I love Angela's in-laws! They are a very warm and welcoming bunch!) And the gift opening? Thankfully not too early (7:00 a.m.) and surprising (I gave Angela money to buy me some presents so I'd be surprised when I opened them!).

I love Arizona in the winter...blue sky, sunshine and warm! See....

So, I explained to my brother-in-law, Tim, that we needed to do something fun on Saturday so I could blog about it. He was skeptical about my blog readership and my ability to entertain you with our activities on this particular Saturday. So, if you're not entertained...all six of you who read this blog...I'm blaming Tim!

Really, a lot of the day was spent lounging around doing a whole lot of NOTHING! Perfect for vacation. But we made up for it by going out to dinner and having Thai. I love Thai food, don't you? And after an all day food fest on Christmas day, it was nice to eat something a little bit on the "light" side. While we waited for our food, we counted the visible elephants in the restaurant. Want to take a guess at how many we found?

628!
That's right in a place with just 12 little tables, there were 628 visible elephants for us to count. I'm sure the kid working the counter with curious as to why I was wandering around the restaurant pointing and counting to myself.

For dessert we stopped of for some "Arizona Snow"...snow cones at Bahama Buck's. YUM! I figure we can go three more times during my vacation here and we can fill up my punch card. Angela, Athena and I tried normal flavors. Tim experimented with
"Pickle Juice."

We ended the evening enjoying the new patio Angela and Tim had installed in their side yard. Time surprised Angela with a new set of patio furniture and a fire pit (something I seriously thinking I need to add to my back yard). So, we had a fire and roasted marshmallows as our concluding activity for Saturday.

It was a perfectly relaxing vacation Saturday!

Next Saturday? It's a new year...2010...and an updated look for the blog! Only 11 more blog postings until the first 52 Fun Saturdays are done.

Saturday #41-December 19, 2009

2009-12-22T10:33:00.013-07:00

A year ago I was in The Philippines!

Wow! Was it really a year ago?
I'm so glad my friend Terri was able to go with me. We've been reminiscing about the fun adventures we had on our trip. So, what was I doing a year ago for a Saturday of Fun? The link below takes you to the blog Terri and I had from our trip.

http://wepacklite.blogspot.com/2008/12/headed-north-back-to-naga-in-three.html

Last year was definitely more fun than this year's Saturday. Two hours shopping at Target is not really blog worthy, even if there was a women being hauled out on a stretcher and loaded into an ambulance.

By the way, if you have been watching the news lately, you've probably heard about the Mayon Volcano in the Philippines which is threatening to erupt. Last year I stood on that very volcano. In fact here's a picture I took last year and one my parents just sent. There's always steam raising from the crater. But in the picture they sent you can see some of the ash and smoke. At night the volcano glows red with lava flow. WOW! And as of yesterday, all the missionaries and members are safe. Please keep them in your prayers.

Next Saturday is Boxing Day and I'll be in Arizona with Angela and her family. I don't know what the plans are, but I'm absolutely sure I'll have something fun to blog about...even if it's the 70 degree temperatures!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! And thanks for following our 52 Fun Saturdays blog!

Saturday #40-December 12, 2009

2009-12-15T14:56:00.009-07:00

Happy Hanukkah Everyone!
Saturday was the beginning of Hanukkah...also known as the Festival of Lights. It is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar, which may occur at any time from late November to late December in the Gregorian calendar. The festival is observed by the kindling of the lights of a special candelabrum, the nine-branched Menorah or Hanukiah, one additional light on each night of the holiday, progressing to eight on the final night. An extra light called a shamash (Hebrew: "guard" or "servant") is also lit each night for the purpose of lighting the others, and is given a distinct location, usually above or below the rest.

I've never really celebrated Hanukkah, but think it's a beautiful tradition. Maybe next year I will light eight candles in honor of this Jewish festival.

On a different note (but still related to light) Saturday night was the adult meeting for Stake Conference. For those of you who might not know, a "stake" is a large congregation of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from a specific geographical area. Twice a year these large congregations meet for spiritual instruction from church leaders. On Saturday night the adult members of the stake met with Bishop Keith B. McMullin, one of the presiding Bishops of the LDS church. It was one of the best meetings I have ever been to. I learned the importance of inspiration and revelation as Bishop McMullin called members out of the congregation to teach doctrines of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As I sat in the meeting I felt the Holy Ghost witness to me through peaceful feelings in my heart the truth of what was said. I am grateful I went to the meeting prepared to learn and that my prayers were answered.

I know Bishop McMulllin is a man called of God and his witness of Jesus Christ reaffirmed my own belief in Him as Savior of the World. I'm grateful for the holiday season when we can remember His birth, exemplify His life, and honor His redeeming sacrifice for each one of us!

Saturday #39-December 5, 2009

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

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree! Yup, this is the theme for my 39th Saturday of Fun!

It's become a Christmas tradition to attend the Festival of Trees in support of Primary Children's Hospital. Trees are decorated and donated to the festival, usually in honor or in memory of someone who's life has been touched by PCH. Sometimes there are stories written up about the person in whose honor the tree is donated...and usually they are tear-jerkers! So, the Festival of Trees is the best way to spend $4.00 and a couple hours on a Saturday to really get in the holiday spirit.

There are trees decorated in every style, size and theme...

I thought of Madeline when I saw the frog tree...

And Tonya when I saw the ME Tree...

This star reminded me of something you might see in the Philippines...made out of the plastic holders from a 6 pack of soda...

The Very Hungry Caterpillar tree made me think of Athena...

And the Star Wars trees looked like something Joseph and his boys would make if they had all the Star Wars toys...

The Fairies Tree reminded me of Amy M. and Miss Emmie...

Like I said, trees are auctioned off and the money is donated to Primary Children's Hospital. I was seriously thinking about buying one in support of a good cause. But almost all of them were sold and the few not sold had a pretty hefty price tag...a little out of my "good cause" budget.

Being in tree mode, I set out on a quest to get my own Christmas tree. I've always purchased a real tree for Christmas and I was all set to buy another one this year. I even went so far as to buy a new tree stand, which is something I vow to do every year!

But then I found myself drawn to the concept of a PRE-LIT tree! I hate, really HATE stringing lights on a Christmas tree. It's boring, tedious, and time consuming. Two years ago, I basically just threw a few strings of lights and called it good! And then spent the holidays ignoring the fact the lights were all gobbed on one side of the tree.

So, despite my love of hunting through the tree lot for the perfect tree and despite the fun of tying the tree to the top of my car and driving it home, and despite the smell of fresh pine in my living room and despite the weird satisfaction I get from vacuuming up pine needles for the next three months, I bought myself a FAKE, pre-lit tree.

I got it home, took it out of the box, put it together...and nearly burst into tears with disappointment! It looked small and pathetic, smelled like plastic, and I still had to string lights on the blasted thing!

Watching and singing along to my all-time favorite Christmas movie "White Christmas" helped ease some of the tree disappointment while I decorated it. And in the end my pathetic fake tree didn't turn out half bad.

(Coming Soon...a picture of my tree...)

But, next year, I think I'll donate my little tree to a good cause and go back to the tradition of a real tree for Christmas.

Saturday #38-November 28, 2009

2009-11-30T12:02:00.009-07:00

So, Jen and I had a little Red vs. Blue rivalry wager going on this weekend. And since BYU won the football game on Saturday, I've modified the blog background accordingly!

Here's a little collage of photos from the game. Let me tell you...it was FUN!!!

Before the game started, I had lunch with some of my favorite people. Max & Brityn were in town for Thanksgiving, so they stopped in at Brian & Janelle's house for lunch. It was fun to visit and play with the girl's. I love my nieces! Lauren and Madeline are so much FUN!

Before lunch, I did something I've wanted to do for a long time--a mini Triathlon! Terri joined me for a 3 mile run on treadmills, a 10 mile ride on stationary bikes, and 1/2 a mile swim (36 laps) in the pool. We did all three activities in about 2.5 hours. It was a great way to burn off some of the calories from Thanksgiving. And even though I finished feeling tired and sore, I felt accomplished. I'd definitely count it as FUN!

So, there you go, from finish to start, my Saturday of FUN!
(Hey wait, how did all those red U's get in my posting? Jen?)

Saturday #37 Addendum

2009-11-23T12:52:00.003-07:00

Okay, so I didn't see New Moon on Saturday. I saw it at on Thursday night thanks to my friend Tricia who hosted a client appreciation event at Thanksgiving Point. So technically, I can't blog about it on my Fun Saturday Blog.

But as my friend Samantha pointed out, I THOUGHT about it on Saturday!

My question..."How could you not think about this?"

Saturday #37-November 21, 2009

2009-11-23T10:52:00.005-07:00

RATS!!! I totally forgot to take my camera with me on Saturday, so I have no photo documentation of the fun! Sorry!!!

Saturday was the BYU vs. Air Force football game and I've been looking forward to this game all season for one very specific reason--the FLYOVER! Since our seats are in the North end zone, it's the perfect place to be when the jets fly from South to North over the stadium. And this year was perfect! Four jets (sorry, missed the announcement of what kind of jets) flew low over the stadium. First you see them, and then you hear them. "The sound of freedom" according to Terri. I totally agree!

Insert mental picture of jets flying over the stadium...

Okay, so if the flyover was the best part, the second best thing about the game was the game itself. BYU won 38 to 21! Thanks to Terri for going with me to "Rise and Shout" the cougars on to victory. I really wish I had a picture of the two of us bundled up against the cold. Luckily it didn't snow!

Insert mental picture of Terri and I bundled up in hats, gloves, coats, blankets, etc...

The third best thing about the game? Our excellent parking spot!!! Terri's sister Laura has a parking pass for Lot #1...the parking lot at the stadium, at the South end. Since she wasn't going to the game, she let us borrow the parking pass. Seriously, we couldn't have had a better place to park and I was more than tempted to "borrow" the pass for next week's game too.

Insert mental picture of my Rav 4 parked right by the South entrance to the stadium...

Brian called during the first quarter to tell me he saw us on TV! I went to his house after the game to check it out, and this is what he saw.
Can you see Terri and I? It's like "Where's Waldo?"! And unless you know our seats are just West of the band, right below the section II entrance, you'd have no clue were to look for us.

I had Brian freeze the next frame and then took a picture of the TV with my camera. Even with his High Def big screen TV, you can barely tell there are two little heads in the red circle. Yup, that's us! Our big TV debut.

While I was at it, I grabbed a quick snapshot of two of my favorite people...Brian and Lauren. Hmmm...I think there is a definite lack of BYU blue in this photo. At least Lauren got it right!

Saturday #36-November 14, 2009

2009-11-16T09:29:00.004-07:00

I love Christmas! It's one of my favorite holidays. With that being said, however, I am one of those people who believes that Christmas celebrations should not start until after Thanksgiving!

Ba! Humbug! To Christmas music, Christmas events, Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and Christmas shopping until AFTER watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, overeating turkey, mom's stuffing, and 7 layer Jello, and a few hours of post-dinner football. The Friday after Thanksgiving is when I think it's okay to start putting up the tree and lights and turning on the Christmas tunes.

So, I will admit I had a hard time getting into the spirit of things when I went to the Gingerbread Festival at Thanksgiving Point on Saturday.

The Gingerbread Festival is an event hosted by the BSA in support of art education and the PTA and showcases gingerbread houses decorated by boy scout troops and elementary school classes from all over the valley. There were some pretty creative decorating going on! It was fun to see how candy can be used to create rooftops and chimneys and fires and pathways and wreaths and windows and doors and fenses...

And there were some pretty amazing "professional" gingerbread houses...

Decorating and eating my own gingerbread cookie and sipping hot chocolate helped jump start the holiday spirit.

But, just so you all know, despite having fun at the Gingerbread Festival, I didn't run home and start up the Christmas music while I hung Christmas light. Oh no, no, no! My fall leaves and Autumn Harvest decor is staying up until the day after Thanksgiving. We still have still almost two weeks until the Christmas celebrations can official begin!

Saturday #35-November 7, 2009

2009-11-10T09:35:00.005-07:00

After sleeping in (always one of my favorite fun things to do!)...
And after getting a text message from a friend with a reminder not to sleep the day away...
And after having fun helping Brian and Janelle move...
And after having fun decorating Lauren's new Curious George room...
And after having fun cheering BYU's victory over Wyoming with Terri...
And after having fun washing my car...
And after having fun cleaning my kitchen (even behind the fridge and under the stove)...
And after having fun watching BBC's Lilies (episodes 1-3)...
And after having fun doing my laundry...
And after having fun preparing my lesson for Young Women's on Sunday...
That's when I read all the suggestions my FaceBook friends made for my Saturday O' Fun!

Amy E. Smith I need something fun to do tomorrow for my 52funsaturdays blog. Any suggestions? November 6 at 3:38pm
Brian S. Smith You could help me move! November 6 at 4:16pm
Samantha Harris How about a nice hike somewhere like to Cascade Springs or go horseback riding... November 6 at 4:22pm
John McCord Come over and help me and Samantha decorate, rewire and fit out our kitchen? I'll make the food! Spaghetti Bolognese or chicken fajitas tomorrow? November 6 at 4:36pm
Janelle Jeffrey Smith I agree with Brian. We're fun! November 6 at 4:42pm
Angela Lorenzen Use your standby ticket and come visit me! November 6 at 5:06pm
Matthew Campbell Fly a kite in Autumn. November 6 at 6:47pm
Teresa Smith Royce The PAJAMA party at 9AM at Jordan Commons for the movie Christmas Carol 3D in the IMAX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! November 6 at 8:36pm
James Williams Go up to Snowbird and take a free ride up the tram. Walk down a little and catch the ski lift down. A little cold but way fun. I'll go with if you want! November 6 at 9:39pm
Teresa Smith Royce I just heard about Snowbird thing. You could go there AFTER my pajama party. Come on, how often can you wear your pajamas to a movie theatre? I have some new cuddly zebra print I plan to style. You can bring James too. I will throw in the popcorn November 6 at 10:26pm
Samantha Harris Oh you should definitely do the Snowbird idea! Sat at 12:03am
Samantha Harris With all these great choices...what did you do??? Sun at 10:16am
Teresa Smith Royce not the pajama party :((( Sun at 12:01pm
Amy E. Smith Thanks everyone for your suggestions. Man! I wish I would have checked FB on Saturday morning. Flying a kite or hiking up Snowbird would have been great fun! Sorry Teresa, even a PJ party wouldn't tempt me to see Christmas Carol. Give me a few days and I'll post Saturday of fun activities on my blog for all of you to read about! Monday at 9:49am

Lesson learned? My friends are a lot more fun than I am! I should listen to them all more often.

Saturday #34-October 31, 2009

2009-11-02T10:52:00.006-07:00

What happens in Vegas...
stays in Vegas...

Saturday #33-October 24, 2009

2009-10-29T10:07:00.003-06:00

Ode to My Bed

Oh how I love thee, my comfortable, warm bed.
Your pillows stacked high...
Your clean, crisp white sheets...
Invite me to lay,
Upon your firm mattress
At the end of the day.

Oh how I love thee, my lovely, nice bed.
In a room painted blue...
With a frame all in yellow...
You're my favorite place
To settle down for slumber
With a smile on my face.

Oh how I love thee, my favorite, soft bed.
On a Saturday morning...
With nothing to do...
But snuggle down deeper,
the covers pulled higher.
To be a lazy late sleeper!

Saturday # 32 - October 17 BBC, We Love Thee

2009-10-20T14:28:00.013-06:00

I had the "great pleasure" of seeing this new BBC movie as part of my Saturday O' Fun. Bright Star is about the romance between John Keats and Fanny Brawne. Apparently most of the story line is based on their love letters. How would it be, receiving a love letter from John Keats!

Did you know John Keats died at age 25? Tragic, I say! No wonder Fanny spent several years roaming through the woods at night, after his death in a black frock. I love everything about this movie- the costumes, scenery, & acting are beautifully done... and the poetry readings, exquisite! The best thing about this movie.. it's very clean and a true romance. It's absolutely beautiful. Go see Bright Star. (Ops, was I not suppose to tell you he dies?) Go see it anyway.

http://www.brightstar-movie.com/

LAST SONNET

by: John Keats (1795-1821)

BRIGHT Star, would I were steadfast as thou art--
Not in lone splendour hung aloft the night,
And watching, with eternal lids apart,
Like Nature's patient sleepless Eremite,
The moving waters at their priest-like task
Of pure ablution round earth's human shores,
Or gazing on the new soft-fallen mask
Of snow upon the mountains and the moors--
No--yet still steadfast, still unchangeable,
Pillow'd upon my fair love's ripening breast,
To feel for ever its soft fall and swell,
Awake for ever in a sweet unrest,
Still, still to hear her tender-taken breath,
And so live ever--or else swoon to death.

Saturday #32-October 17, 2009

2009-10-19T09:46:00.004-06:00

Tonya, I'm giving fair warning...this posting will probably make you homesick...

First off, the weather on Saturday was pretty much perfect! 70 degrees with clear, blue skies is almost unbelievable in the middle of October. I'm so glad I spent a few minutes outside enjoying the beauty of the day...and the fountains at The Gateway.

I find it amazing how friendship works! Eight years ago I moved to a new city and made some new friends. We started a book club, and for the first couple of years we faithfully met once a month to talk about books, church callings, husbands and children (theirs not mine, obviously) and life in general. Sometimes, it was less about the book, and more about the visit!

And then we all went our separate--some went further North, some further West, some further South and one went way, way, way further East. The book club dissolved somewhere along the way, but our friendships are still strong. And on Saturday four of us got together for lunch and a good visit!

So, to Kim and Melinda and Betsy (and Tonya & Sarah who weren't there), let me just tell you how much you all mean to me! You are all incredible women and valued friends. You inspire and amaze me! And I want to be like all of you when I grow up (never mind that I'm the oldest one in the group).

After lunch we roamed around The Gateway, just visiting. Apparently we've lost "the shopper" in our group, 'cause none of us were all that interested in going into the stores. There was more to see outside anyway. The people watching at The Gateway is highly entertaining! And I will have you all know, it was not this "Amy" who left her mark on the sidewalk...but thanks to the "Amy" who did, because it was a photo opportunity!

Here's a close-up...of the name, not me!

And finally, I'd like to end this posting with this bit of advice....

Saturday # 31 - October 10

2009-10-17T17:21:00.027-06:00

Every summer for the past 3 years I have a family tradition.. "Aunt Jenny's Annual Sleep Over." However, since my nieces and nephews are growing in number (and somehow my place is getting smaller), this year I decided to turn it into a one-nighter. It's now officially called "Aunt Jenny's Annual Oktoberfest." Because this special event will now be held in October, unfortunately (or fortunately) these kids will probably not be able to play red-rover or hide-in-sneak outside at odd hours.

Needless to say, we didn't really do the "traditional things" done at Oktoberfest in Europe.. (if so, these kids wouldn't be allowed at Aunt Jenny's). We simply had a very fun time together watching movies (Mall Cop & Home Alone), eating pizza, drinking homemade orange julius, snacking on candy, chocolate donuts, popcorn, etc. (sorry to my two brothers and sister for filling your kids with sugar).

This year I had 10 kids at my house (ages 2-11). This event actually took place on Friday night, however, since it dipped into Saturday, with me spending the next day cleaning up, I'm counting this as a Saturday o Fun activity.

They are all fantastic and so much fun!

These pictures basically tell the story.
My bunny slippers were popular to try on... and all these pictures are bound to appear later in their lives, more likely around mission, college, and marriage time. ;)

Saturday # 29 - September 26, A Thrifty Christmas

2009-10-17T16:29:00.070-06:00

Today I helped set-up for the General RS Broadcast & our stake mingle. After the broadcast the ladies had the op to stroll back to the multipurpose room to sample delicious homemade candy (ahh.. white fudge) and view several provident-living-gift-idea displays.

I had to take some shots. Everything on display was very creative, and the best part.. very cost effective too!

Hey y'all, I don't mean to spoil the surprise.. but look what you're getting for Christmas! Are you excited!?

Check out these ancient skates!

Take a closer peek...some of my favorites are the sweater pillow, marshmallow shooter (gotta make this for Amy), mini sewing kit, garden kit, and these sweet smelling lotions and potions (create your own Bath and Body Works via your own kitchen, yeah?)

Wait a minute.. it's way to early to start thinking about Christmas!

Saturday #31-October 10, 2009

2009-10-15T11:55:00.002-06:00

There is something to be said for starting a Saturday o' Fun at a Las Vegas Buffet. Really! Sushi AND a bran muffin for breakfast? Don't mind if I do, thanks!

I was in Las Vegas (Henderson, really) for the Gordon and June Smith family reunion, sadly without Gordon and June. All my siblings got together this weekend to celebrate:
1. Canadian Thanksgiving (a tradition since my mom is Canadian, and really, we're always looking for a good excuse to eat turkey!)
2. Angela & Tim's anniversary (congrats on 10 years!)
3. Amy M.'s & Brityn's birthday (Happy B-days ladies!)
4. BYU/UNLV football game (which we actually all bailed on going to)

We had a great time being together! It was especially fun to be with all the nieces and nephews--they are all growing up so fast! Oh, and we took a couple of AWESOME family photos! Sorry, I can't post them--it's would ruin Christmas for my parents. But believe me, they are AWESOME! (If you're my friend on Facebook I posted one of them there.)

Fiona, Conlan and I did some "competitive analysis" at a frozen yogurt shop in Las Vegas. I think they enjoyed the "espionage" part almost as much as the frozen yogurt!

And then I couldn't resist making Angela's dreams a reality! I found these great feather eyelashes at the store. I think I found my Halloween costume!

Special thanks to:

Max & Brityn for hosting the reunion. They were very kind and generous!
Tim for bringing Canadian cookies all the way from Canada!
Amy M. for surviving the drive up to Las Vegas!
Angela for staying with me on Friday night!
The entire family for being good sports during a family photo--it was practically painless!
Kendra for making the amazing Zucchini & Ricotta cheese dish!
Will for saying, "You sound just like grandma." It's a compliment kid!
Sean & Tim for chillin' with me by the pool.
Brian & Janelle for caravaning home with me--oh how I wish I could drive AND take pictures of you as you drove past me with your tongues sticking out!

I LOVE MY FAMILY!

Saturday # 30, October 3rd

2009-10-09T13:43:00.043-06:00

Conference weekend! I usually pop a huge bowl of popcorn to snack on while I listen to conference (I like to leave the "old-maid" kernels for the end.. cause "last is the best of all the game"). This weekend I decided to eat something a little more healthy... 2 carrots and 2 cinnamon rolls (not only is conference good for the soul, cinnamon is too).

I loved every talk (Richard G. Scott - personal favorite this session). Occasionally during the afternoon session, sometimes I need to keep my eye lids open (especially after eating a turkey avocado sandwich). Maybe I'll prepare a conference BINGO sheet next time, or simply use toothpicks.

After conference I met my photography class at the AF tabernacle for our class field trip. We spend the next few hours running around town taking pictures.

Side note: While the other class members are on their way to stardom... after two classes, I can honestly say I now know how to officially turn on the camera, put the lens on correctly, and take the lens cap off. Yippee!

My main assignment today was to take a picture of a moving car, with the car in focus, and background in motion.

This shot is probably my best attempt at accomplishing this.. (I wonder what this man is pointing at?)

Also included are random shots of.. "The vehicle I drove before the Honda" & "This tree is such a sap!" And last, "Who knew these leaves could be so green.. even after photo shop" ;)

Fun class for an exciting Saturday o Fun!

Saturday # 28- September 19 " Time Out for Women"

2009-10-09T13:01:00.030-06:00

Since Saturday # 27 is a blur to me right now... I'm jumping to # 28.

I had the opportunity to spend Friday and Saturday with friends at Desert Book's "Time Out For Women" in Logan. This event included performers such as Michael McLean and Cherie Call, and presenters, Chieko Okazaki, Mark Mabry (a favorite), Emily Watts, Brent Topp (another favorite), and Jill Manning (3rd favorite).

Friday night, Michael McLean sang & danced around the stage in his cowboy boots... (an image I've been trying to delete my from brain for weeks). Cherie Call (aka.. Jodie Foster's look-a-like) hit the stage next. All the music was beautiful, uplifting and inspirational.

Couple highlights:
I remember this cute lady from my childhood. It's hard to believe she's 82! Then again, it's hard to believe I'm in my 20's. ;)

Sister Okazaki's presentation was titled "Teach them correct principles and they govern themselves." She gave some excellent insight on effective teaching methods and how to keep our lives in line with important truths and principles.

Another favorite speaker was Mark Mabry, photographer and creator of "Reflections of Christ." By giving up worldly pursuits, he was able to accomplish many successful things, including the inspiration to create this remarkable photography.

A big thank you to Chris for inviting us, and also thanks to your parents- they are wonderful hosts!
We had a fun, uplifting weekend!

Saturday # 26 - September 5

2009-10-07T17:13:00.041-06:00

I sang Broadway themes all day and snacked on peanut M&M's. I broke my record. I threw about 15 M&M's in the air consecutively and caught them in my mouth... impressed?

I'm studying for a PCPI Certification test... aah, and one other test that I won't mention because is just absolutely PAINFUL and I'm not doing well on the practice tests. hmm.

Anyway, what does PCPI stand for? Professional Card Players International? Nope! it's stands for Print Communications Professionals International (nerdy).

What does this mean for me & my career? (Instant celebrity status through Print Buyer's Anonymous?)
Actually, I'm still trying to figure out what this means... and right now, not a whole lot at this point.

Am I currently working as a Print Buyer?
No, I don't currently buy print in my position. I used to. I'll just leave it at that...

Mr. Roger's Tour:

Offset (sheet-feed) press.. each "box" holds a different color of ink.

Here is a diagram showing how this press operates. Yawn...

According to Mr. Roger's: "As the cylinder turns, the ink is laid upon paper as it is pushed between the blanket and a third turning cylinder called the "impression" cylinder in exactly the same pattern as appears on the plate. A series of sets of cylinders can create color prints using different colors of inks, most commonly cyan, magenta, yellow and black (or "key"), known as "CMYK" four-color printing."

I'm not getting certified to run this press (running this thing is likely to inflict harm or injury to my body). I'm just learning the "artsy" side of this process.

So..for most of my "Saturday-o-Fun" I ate M&M's, sang (mostly hummed) Broadway songs, and studied for the PCPI certification, oh.. and that "other test." yuk!

"These are a few of my favorite things...." kind of..

Saturday # 25- August 29

2009-10-06T13:02:00.032-06:00

Is this my Saturday number 25 activity? Maybe... time flies? I'm a slacker blogger. This was either Saturday # 25 or # 26 or 27.
What can I say, my typical summer Saturday morning routine is:
1. Wake up
2. Sit up
3. Knees up, legs flopped over bedside.
4. Hand flapping around for glasses, not found.
5. Eyes glaring at the clock.. 1/2 an inch from my face (I'm blind).
6. 6:30 a.m. "Why did my alarm go off? It's SATURDAY!"
7. Jump back into bed for another 2 hours.

Later I'm sure I shuffled around the house in my bunny slippers & robe snacking on chunks of frozen chocolate followed by a bowl of oatmeal. Plain old oatmeal- Love it! Next, I'm 101% sure I peeked out at my tomatoes. My prize tomatoes, those big red beauties! Then I slowly opened the back door an inch.. my eye searching for neighbors who might catch a glimpse of me in my robe and slippers. When I think the coast is clear I swing the door open and jump from the top step to the patio... hopefully like Wonder Woman.. only with bunny slippers and a red robe. I'm now safely hidden behind my backyard fence. "No one saw me!" Next, I hear my next door neighbor sniff loud! "Oh great!" I then shuffle around the back padio, bunny ears bouncing, as I inspect my tomatoes. I have (had) a tiny little red pepper that is (was) struggling. I usually give it words of encouragement during this plant inspection. Apparently whatever I told this little veggie didn't work, it's dead to me now.

I can't tell you what happens mid-morning nor early afternoon on day # 25. However I do remember that I picked up my two nieces and nephew later that afternoon to see Harry Potter at the Commons. I was a bit frightened halfway through the movie and sat in the food court for 15 mins.. oh wait, maybe it was me sitting with someone else. ;) Either way... I throughly enjoyed some nachos and popcorn during the break. Fun Day!

Saturday #30-October 4, 2009

2009-10-06T09:20:00.005-06:00

It's official--Autumn is here! How do I know? Besides the colorful trees, cooler temperatures, and pumpkins on sale at Albertson's--It's the LDS General Conference this weekend. So, in keeping with traditions instilled in me as a youth (thanks Dad!), I cleaned out the garden and got ready for winter while listening to the Saturday morning session. If you missed General Conference visit www.lds.org for the audio & video links. I recommend the talk by Elder Bednar!

Another conference tradition is Borstch for lunch on Sunday. But my mom isn't here to make it, so I made the attempt for the first time ever all on my own. Borstch is one of my favorite things to eat--it's a wonderfully warm comfort food on cold Autumn days. What is Borstch? A Russian vegetable soup, usually made with lots of beets--healthy right? Let me just mention it's made with a pound--yes, I said 1 POUND--of butter! How can it NOT be tasty with a pound of butter?

So, during the break between conference sessions, I ran up to my parent's house and found the recipe in the files (thanks for being so organized Mom!) and then to the grocery store for all the ingredients. The recipe says it makes enough for 8 people. After all was cut, fried, boiled, and stirred, let's just say those 8 people must be GIANTS!! I ended up with at least 5 quarts of Borstch. Here's the recipe. I forgot to take the fancy, food-styled, picture of my bowl of Borstch for the family cookbook--sorry!

Borstch
1 qt. tomatoes (I used a couple of cans of diced tomatoes from my food storage)
8 med. potatoes
2 large onions (I only used one)
1 carrot (I halved a bunch of little snack carrots)
1 small beet (I used one can of diced beets--drained off the liquid)
1/2 stalk celery
1 lb. butter (to make this a healthier soup, I suggest using only 2 Tbs. of butter here)
1 green pepper (I used a red one 'cause I don't like green)
small bunch of dill leaves
1 good head cabbage (glad it called for a "good" head...I used a pkg. of pre-shredded cabbage)
1 c. heavy cream

Put 1 qt. of tomatoes into a frying pan with 3 tbs. of butter (or just 1 Tbs.) and let it cook for a few minutes.

Pour 3 qts. of water into a 4 qt. pot (5 qt pot would be better) and bring to a boil. Peel 8 med. potatoes, 2 onions, 1 carrot, 1 beet and 1/2 stalk of celery.

Cut 5 potatoes and the beets into haves, cube carrots and chop the celery finely. Put all this into the boiling water and add half to the tomatoes (I held out the tomatoes until the very end) that have been cooking with the butter. Salt to taste and add 1/4 lbs. butter (or half that even). Select a real solid head of cabbage and shred it very finely.

Put 1/2 tbs. butter into a frying pan, chop onions real fine and fry in melted butter for at least 5 min. Watch so that they don't burn. Then add 1/3 of the shredded cabbage, some chopped green peppers and allow to fry.

Be careful that your potatoes do not over-cook. When they are tender enough to mash, take them out and mash them, add the rest of the butter and the cup of cream to the potatoes.

Cut the 3 remaining potatoes into small cubes. Pour them into the boiling potato stock water which you have left and let them boil for about 10 minutes. Then add the fried cabbage (with the onion and green pepper) and the rest of the shredded cabbage. Allow to boil for about 3 min. then pour in the mashed potatoes. Stir very slowly so there will be no potatoes in lumps. Last of all, add the rest of the fried tomatoes (this is where I added all of the fried tomatoes) and the finely chopped dill leaves. When it all comes to a boil, take it off the heat and allow to cool. At this point I put my borstch through the blender--not too much--just enough to smooth it out a bit. Add salt to taste and serve. Serves 8 people.

P.S. I gave some to my grandmother. She left me the best voice mail message about how wonderful the Borstch tasted! Hooray! I'm calling it a success!

HAPPY FALL EVERYONE!

Saturday #29-September 26, 2009

2009-09-30T10:22:00.000-06:00

It's hard to categorize things like grocery shopping and laundry as "fun", but sometimes Saturday is the only day to get them done. And even though they aren't typical, every day events, it's had to think of a funeral and the General Women's Conference as "fun".

There are only two really fun things I did on Saturday--but I don't have photos of me doing either of them...sorry!

The first? Visiting my friend Tricia (who was actually taking a much needed nap) and holding her new baby girl, Pyper Maria. Pyper is beautiful! You'll just have to take my word for it...she has similar features to her mom. Congratulations Tricia, Jerry, & Parker on the newest addition to the Williamson family!

The second? Staying up until 2:30 a.m. reading! What was I reading? The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins! Seriously, I could not put the book down! Picture something like reality TV gladiator style--but with teenagers.

Here's the synopsis from Barnes and Noble: In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival.

Just so you know, book #2, "Catching Fire" is already out--thanks goodness! (I hope I'm not giving away the ending to book #1 by telling you there is a book #2.) So, even though I could barely keep my eyes open, I started Catching Fire right after I closed the cover of The Hunger Games. But now I have to wait over a year for book #3!

Thanks for the book recommendation Melissa. If anyone else has a good book suggestion, feel free to post it in the comments. I'm always looking for something good to read!

Saturday #28-September 19, 2009

2009-09-21T12:39:00.001-06:00

Here are a few things I don't see or experience every day--so it's a treat when they happen on Saturday and I can blog about it!

The changing leaves in Sardine Canyon--I love Autumn!

My friends Chris & Annette at Deseret Book's "Time Out For Women" in Logan.

Me, wearing a "house coat." Technically, it was still Friday when this happened. But since I forgot my pj's, Jen was kind enough to let me borrow this fancy get-up, which she brought as a joke. I must say, it was very comfortable!

Jennifer giving the "I'm a new woman" cheer at Time Out for Women in Logan.

A collection of inspiring presenters at Time Out for Women in Logan.

Moose or Elk (my guess is Elk) antlers in the back of a truck...random!

This sign always makes me happy. We stopped in for a very quick shopping spree--except they didn't have ping-pong balls. What? Smith & Edwards didn't have something I need? It's true. Although they did have a lot of stuff I want!

Um, yeah, this is Jen with two Runt's banana candies in her nostrils! Definitely something I don't see every day...and something I hope never to see again!

I hope BYU doesn't mind that I borrowed this photo from their website. I was really excited to go to BYU's home opening game against Florida State University. I'm sorry BYU lost--28 to 54! I'm sorry to say it was not a fun way to end my Saturday!

Saturday #27-September 12, 2009

2009-09-12T12:13:00.001-06:00

Happy 30th Birthday Brian!

Okay, officially, Brian's birthday is on September 8th. And here's a bit of family trivia...he shares his birthday with my dad, who was also born September 8th!

We celebrated Brian's birthday on Saturday at Pirate Island Pizza (where else?). And since we celebrated on Saturday, I'm going to use one of my 52 Fun Saturday blog postings to tell you how amazing Brian is and why I'm grateful he was born 30 years ago...

Brian is happy!
Brian is kind!
Brian can fix anything!
He is an awesome daddy to Lauren!
He works hard!
He is funny and has a great sense of humor!
Brian is a good husband to Janelle!
Brian likes BYU football almost as much as I do!
Brian is always willing to share!
Brian is fun to play games with!
He steps up and does what's expected, even if it's not convenient!
He is careful of other people's feelings!
He shares his toys!
He admits when he is wrong!
Brian likes to spend time with his family!
Brian isn't afraid to try new things (sushi?)!
Brian likes to laugh!
Brian prays!
Brian worthily holds the priesthood!
Brian has a strong belief in Jesus Christ!

Best of all, Brian loves me, "Love ya, Bye!" and I love him! Thanks little (big) brother for taking care of me and being one of my very best friends. Happy Birthday! I'm glad I was able to spend my Saturday celebrating you!

Saturday #26-September 5, 2009

2009-09-05T11:57:00.001-06:00

TRADITION!! Perfect weather, camping in the woods, wearing camo, eating hash browns & bacon, hanging out with family, taking a nap, riding 4-wheelers, going to Lava Hot Springs, eating S'mores! Labor Day weekend at Autumn View...there's really nothing better for a Saturday o' Fun!

Saturday #25-August 29, 2009

2009-08-29T09:50:00.001-06:00

Melissa, Amy, Terri

Once upon a time, three women set out on a journey to the mountains of Wyoming. Their quest was for peace, quiet, and a little relaxation--which they got--plus a bit of adventure along the way

Our destination was "Z Pines", a few acres of peace and beauty in the Uintas owned by Terri's family. Z Pines has beautiful pine and aspen trees with the comforts of a bunk house and bath house (with flushing toilets). But...before the flushing toilets will work, we had to fill up the holding tank with water. And since there isn't a well at Z Pines yet, we had to drive down the mountain to the water station to fill up buckets of water. And before we could drive down the mountain to get water, we had to change the flat tire on my Rav4, which I got dodging jackrabbits on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere on our drive to Wyoming. And since there was a flat tire and no water and no flushing toilets in the bath house, we utilized the facilities of a good, old fashioned OUT HOUSE

So, here are a few interesting bits to the story about the flat tire. Just a week or so before going to Z Pines, I had a conversation with a friend where we both admitted it's been years since we've had to change a tire on our cars. I should have "knocked on wood" 'cause the little fairies heard me and consequently the opportunity presented itself. Then, as I was loading up the car with all my camping gear, I came across my favorite "work gloves". The gloves I use to protect my hands whenever I do heavy/dirty work. And when I saw the gloves in my car, I literally thought to myself, "Better keep those handy in case I need them--maybe to change a tire or something." I guess I wasn't so shocked when we arrived at Z Pines and I realized I had a very flat, very dead tire! We all were a little worried we'd be able to get the lug nuts off the car. But after a prayer and a little muscle power from Terri (it's a good thing we've been working out at the gym lately!) we were able to get the flat tire off and the replacement tire on.

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That was our first adventure! Once we fixed the tire, we got water, got the bath house toilets working, and finally enjoyed our Dutch oven mountain man breakfast. By the time breakfast was over and cleaned up (at noon!) I was ready for a nap. And while I snoozed (for 2 hours thank you very much) Terri and Melissa enjoyed a little R&R too...

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Our second adventure started with an afternoon walk down up the road. We happened upon this sign "Open House". Well, it's odd to find a sign like this posted in the Wyoming mountains, so we decided to follow it to see where we ended up.

We followed the signs to a beautiful mountain log cabin (castle!)...a ten year project of the owner, Kristy, as she built a home honoring her family and heritage. Claw foot bath tubs, pistol shaped door handles, cowboy boots, and old style cook top ranges. The house was beautiful and the open house was all about Kristy sharing her home...not "showing" her home.

Okay, so it's not my style (I'm not into Buffalo heads, Indian drums or pine tree stair railings) but, the house was amazing! Obviously a lot of time (and money) has been spent in the details of creating a beautiful and comfortable home. Kristy consulted with a guy who helped her do things to minimize maintenance and cleaning...like no closet doors, no 90 degree corners in the showers, and nightstands mounted to the walls so vacuuming is easier. I'm so glad we followed the open house signs and had a chance to tour Kristy's home. It was beautiful and quite the unexpected treat for my Saturday of Fun in Wyoming.

We hiked back to Z Pines and got started on our third adventure--dinner by the campfire! As an appetizer, we munched on chips and homemade salsa (Terri, I need the recipe!). And for our dinner: corn on the cob, green beans from Terri's garden, and BBQ Dutch oven chicken. For dessert? S'mores of course! After our meal we sat around the campfire and visited. The perfect end to a perfect Saturday o' Fun.

Saturday #24 Bon Appétit

2009-08-26T18:53:00.025-06:00

Today was a very important day...take a look at this cute girl! My beautiful niece was baptized today! I don't want to sound like a proud aunt... however, I truly have the most adorable nieces and nephews in the entire world... yep I do. Congratulations Anna!

So after a spiritual, uplifting morning with my family I decided to do something extraordinary. My definition of "extraordinary" is putting on an apron and turning into a domestic goddess. Because being domestic for me is EXTRAORDINARY -especially when it comes to cooking. Oh.. the dreaded word.. "COOKING." I don't think I can actually say it without flaming knives of terror shooting from my eyes. Talk about SCARY! ek,ek,ek. It's my life-long dream to become a gourmet cook, or should I say, a good cook. To go where I've never gone before, to turn on appliances, to beat meat with wooden hammers, to cook with exotic spices while I throw them over my shoulder, to make pie from scratch, to place peach cobbler in my kitchen window for the neighbors to sniff.

Okay, okay... relax. I simply decided to make a delicious looking dessert I found in a Julia Child's cookbook. Yes, I did see the movie "Julie & Julia" the night before.. and yes, I did watch the movie with envy as I gazed at two domestic queens bustling around their kitchens while devouring glorious food. And yes, I did say to myself, "I can be a gourmet chief like Julia within a short time frame (sometimes I overestimate my abilities, then I later cash and burn). However, I truly believed at that moment that I could cook like Julia Child, that I would be the envy of all my domestic idols in the neighborhood. So I thought I'd pick something basic to start with like... Soufflé glacé à l'orange (I can't even say it). It's Deep-frozen orange soufflé.

Doesn't this look mouth-watering? Yum!

Here are the "coordinates" in case you want to make this... all my yourself.

2-1/4 teaspoons granulated gelatin (I recommend orange gelatin)
4-6 tablespoons of water (tap water is okay)
1/2 cup water
1 cup sugar, divided (I don't know what "divided" means here)
zest and juice of 2 oranges
3 eggs, separated, room temperature
1 cup heavy cream, chilled.

(I'll post the directions in the comments section)

I began with combining the water & sugar in a saucepan. "Bring to boil until softball stage." The first try my "softball stage" went to "hardball stage" within seconds. I turned to zest my oranges after I turned off the stove and within seconds my sugar water turned into hard, flakey snowflakes. So I cleaned out the pan and tried it again. Next I was told to whisk the egg yolks and orange rind.. then pour my beautiful sugar syrup into the same bowl while I "folded in" the gelatin. "Fold in" what does this mean? I can fold towels, my pj's, pants.. I couldn't figure this out with gelatin. I did my best and later found that the gelatin was fairly chunky in sections, aah.. short, even folds next time? In a different bowl I tried whisking the egg whites "until stiff." I beat those whites by hand with my whisk as fast as possible until my wrist throbbed. However, the whites remained just.. simply whites, nonstiff. So I pulled out my blender and blended them to a stiff stage with pretty peaks. Then folded them into my orange mixture and WHALAA! Orange Soufflé, Jennifer style.

My little dishes don't look as lovely as Julia's, however my soufflé was delicious, very tasty. I'm sure Julia would have given me two thumbs down but I was glad to wrap it up, fold it in, and simply taste it. Today, it was all about taste.

au revoir

Saturday #24-August 22, 2009

2009-08-26T07:18:00.005-06:00

My Saturday started really early...12:45 a.m. actually. That is when I picked up Angela and Athena from the airport. They came up to Utah for a quick (but fun filled) visit.

After sleeping in (can you really call it sleeping in when you got less than 8 hours of sleep anyway) we got up and headed to Orem for a little weeding project. Brian came over too and helped edge the lawn. My dad would be so proud...his kids, doing yard work on a Saturday morning.

I gave me camera to Athena (6) with instructions to take pictures of us doing stuff. Here are a few of the shots she took...

...including a self-photo. How can you not love this face?

(As promise, Angela, I did not post the picture Athena took of your back side! I'm such a nice sister.)

We put Athena to work harvesting the strawberries. Here's her bounty...

And earlier in the morning, we harvested some of the bounty from my little backyard garden. I've been waiting for my tomatoes to get red. Apparently I planted the yellow variety. When Athena saw the zucchini, her eyes lit up with thoughts of Zucchini Bread. Our last activity of the night was grating up the zucchini and making bread just for Athena.

But, before the Zucchini Bread and after all the yard work, we rewarded ourselves with a visit to Pirate Island Pizza--a new theme restaurant in Orem. Brian was thrilled to be there, where his true pirate self could run free!

Year-To-Date Review, August 2009

2009-08-21T17:08:00.005-06:00

Well, we’re not quite through half a year of Saturdays O’ Fun. But we thought it might be well worth the time to review our blog and the reasons behind it. I went back to the very beginning and looked through all our postings to date. Wow! We’ve sure had fun! And the fun’s not done. We’ve still got so much more to do and see and share with all 6 of you reading our blog! (Oops! 7…I forgot to count my mom!)

We started this blog as a motivator to make the most out of the last day of the week. We wanted to create memories and to do things “out of the ordinary”. At the end of a year, we didn’t want to look back and wonder what we’d done with our time. Not because we are bored and have nothing to do. Oh no! Far from it! In fact, that’s probably the main reason for the 52 fun Saturdays challenge. If we don’t take time for ourselves at least once a week, we’d find ourselves over scheduled with work, our church callings, our extended family commitments, cleaning our house, doing laundry…pretty much the same things which fill up any women’s time.

And while this blog is based on “fun” please don’t equate our activities to “frivolous”. To us, our Saturdays are precious, nigh on sacred, and really the only day we have to do our own thing. We don't want to waste even a single one! So, with all that said, off we go to do more fun things. Surprisingly, we’ve got more activities on the list than we actually have Saturdays left in the year!

Saturday #23-August 15, 2009

2009-08-15T17:16:00.007-06:00

10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1!
HOORAY! Saturday is finally here!

After a long, hard week, it's nice to have fun things to look forward to. Even when you wake up to freezing cold temperatures in your house (okay, only 65 degrees, but still) and SNOW (that's right folks) on the mountain. Did anyone happen to notice the date on this post? Snow in the middle of August. How dare Mother Nature!

Our original Saturday plans included water, friends, and wave runners. But given the forecast, we opted for more weather appropriate activities. Like weeding...

But luckily our friend and neighbor, Samantha, rescued us from our Saturday chore fate and offered another alternative--LUNCH! And not just any lunch mind you. But a gourmet lunch--featuring Tyler Florence's Grilled Cheese Sandwich. YUM! The perfect comfort food on a snowy summer day.

Here's a link in case you want to try your hand at a scrumptious sandwich. http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/grilled-cheese-recipe/index.html

Of course we documented our fabulous lunch for the blog. Here's Jen before at Samantha's beautifully set table. Please note the real pink/red roses.

And here's our chef preparing our meal. Oh yeah, Samantha didn't want to be in the photo. But believe me, she's there slaving away! Notice the yummy salads in the front left of the photo. When I say gourmet, I mean gourmet.

We even had fancy mixed drinks. Don't worry Mom, no alcohol!

Notice our plates are practically licked clean! So, many thanks to Samantha for a fabulous lunch and for doing the dishes (although we offered to help). Cafe Sam gets five stars and two happy faces!

On a slightly different, but related note...
We saw two movies on Friday night: The Time Traveller's Wife and Julie & Julia. Both were great! We also saw 500 Days of Summer on Saturday afternoon. Again another pretty good film. Who wouldn't love 500 days of summer, right? Who wouldn't love 90 days of summer (hint, hint Mother Nature!)?

Anyway, we were inspired by the movie Julie & Julia and a challenge was issued! Watch for an upcoming Saturday blog where we attempt to cook (and eat) a recipe from Julia Child. Bon Appetit!

Saturday #22-August 8, 2009

2009-08-10T15:35:00.001-06:00

Slept in!
Played with Madeline!
Unpacked boxes!
Played with Madeline!
Cleaned!
Played with Madeline!
Unpacked boxes!
Played with Madeline!
Played Scrabble on Facebook!
Decorated Madeline's room!
Played with Madeline!
Hung-up baby clothes!
Baby-sat Madeline while Max & Brityn went on a date!
Played with Madeline!
Gave Madeline a bath!
Started a movie with Madeline!
Put Madeline to sleep!
Ate yummy Avocado Eggrolls from Cheesecake Factory!
Finished the movie with Max & Brityn!
Listened to my iPod (The Story of Edgar Sawtell-excellent)!
Fell asleep!

That was my day and it was great FUN. Surprisingly, I still didn't get my fill of spending time with Madeline, Brityn & Max. I'm sad to leave them. Road trip to Vegas anyone?

P.S. Don't you love the picture of Madeline on the box? She wanted to play with the box more than her toys--typical kid!

My Saturday # 21. Too expensive to be able to wrestle an alligator?

2009-08-05T21:30:00.052-06:00

I finally signed up to meet with a personal trainer at the gym… well, I signed up for a "free consultation" anyway. "FREE" is one word that always captures my attention. The statements "2 FOR ONE" or "BUY ONE GET ONE FREE" usually snags me in too.

This time I was roped into a 30 min sit-down consultation to discuss my fitness and nutrition goals. If I agreed to this consultation, I would get a "FREE" 30 min weight training session with a personal trainer. "Yep, I'll do it!" I was tired of the strange looks from the PT's as I lifted weights. It was obvious I didn't know how to properly do an ab curl without my neck getting whip-lash, and I was a floor magnet during squat routines. Balance issues! I'm sure the PT's have been eyeing my exercise talents for weeks, just waiting to get their claws on me to throw out their sales pitch.

I sat down for my 30 min chat with a huge muscular guy. He asked me what I wanted to accomplish over the next 6 months.

"Well.." I said, "I'd like to fix up my house and maybe take a few art classes..."

“Ah, I mean what do you want to accomplish in the areas of nutrition and fitness?”

"Oh!"

I told him I would eliminate sugar and starchy foods for 6 months. How realistic is that, seriously? Completely eliminating sugar? I would walk a mile for a Pop Tart sometimes.

"I will also drink more water!" I told him.

Turns out what he wanted me to say is something like.. I will run a marathon in 3 months, or I will train for Iron Woman or Tour de France... or I will scale a cliff with my bare feet or wrestle an alligator in the Florida Keys.

"You need to begin with baby steps Jennifer."

We then walked over to a machine where he threw on a 75 pounder. I put my shoulders under the padded cushion and raised the bar for a few reps. Next.. 25 squats around the gym and then a few reps on the ab machine. Finally, he told me to sit down and push abt. 90 lbs forward for a "little shoulder exercise." I couldn’t even budge the bar on my first try. When I finally pushed it ahead 2-3 inches I said, "This is way too heavy for me." I think he was trying to be a macho trainer because he said, "You can do it. I have faith in you. Reach for the gold Jennifer!" Huh? This isn't the Olympics! I then pictured myself trying to push the weight just to please this guy as both of my arms snapped in half.

I tried it one more time... my arms shook violently and I’m sure my face looked like a red balloon ready to pop. I felt my checks completely inflate as I tried to move the bar forward while holding my breath. I then let out a huge grunt and the air blew out of my flapping checks. I did it! One full rep! Now I can qualify for the Olympics! I was totally shaking and sweating as I let the weight back down.

The trainer stared at me with bulging eyes. "I guess he's probably not going to ask me on a date after seeing that," I thought.

“Well.. maybe one rep is enough Jennifer.”

"Ha! I told you." I said. "Remember the 'baby steps' talk?"

Needless to say, I wasn't able to walk normally for 3 days due to the squats and my arm muscles have been twitching on and off. It was actually a good workout, except for the 90 pound push. I’m realizing my body has been in “off mode” for years.

My free session ended with a 10 min talk about costs, etc.. $999 for six months! I'm sure the benefits are worth it but for $999?

The oxygen was slowly starting to come back into my brain... “How much did you say this package is?” I said.

"It's a steal!" He said.

Ahh.. "No thanks, but... thanks for the free workout!"

Maybe I can create my own plan for $9.99?

Saturday #21-August 1, 2009

2009-08-01T22:16:00.013-06:00

20 Years...

I now know why I bought a High School yearbook. It's not so future generations can mock hair and clothing styles--although I'm sure they will (I do now! Seriously! Who thought acid washed, pegged jeans was a good fashion statement?). It's not for the comments written by friends (Thanks for saying I was cool, but did you really think we would say in touch?). It's not even for a reminder that I was young once (Check out my senior photo...someone said I haven't changed...well, a nice compliment, but I hope I look a little older, wiser, more mature?).

The reason I needed a yearbook is so I could cram just before going to my 20th High School Reunion-just like cramming for AP History quizzes-in a vain attempt to remember names and faces of kids I haven't seen (or thought about) in 20 years!

I graduated from Orem High (go Tigers!) in 1989 and tonight was our 20 year reunion. Months ago I decided I wasn't interested in going. It would be a waste of time and money, after all, since I don't even keep in touch with the four or five close friends I had back then. But, the miracle of Facebook happened. Needless to say, I changed my mind and decided to go. It was well worth my time and money!

One of the highlights from tonight was a group photo of all the folks I've known since elementary school. There were a bunch of us! I kept waiting for the chicken to hit me--who remembers the chicken man who would take all our school photos? "Don't hit me chicken!!"

Craig, Darrin, Dorian, Scott, Stephen, Andy, Steve, Nicole, Jeff, Melinda, Stephanie, David, Adrianna, Andrea, Polly, Eric, Deann, Mindy, Me, Glen, April, Eric, Michael, April, Christa, Michelle...I think I got everyone!

A few of the friends I saw....

With DeAnn Halladay and with Kelly Thompson.

And with Andrea Nicoll and Scott Preston.

And with Corrie Biesinger.

And we'll never forget!!!

Go for the Gold...That's what we've been told...

Never settle for second best...Always GO FOR THE GOLD!!!

Sam Beeson, Class President and fellow SEM Missionary (funny how that works sometimes) kept the evening entertainment short and sweet and not too embarrassing. Matt Harding, Student Body President who is traveling the world as a musician performed for us. It just wouldn't be a class reunion without a song by Matt. Too bad Sonny & Cher didn't make an appearance! Kudos to the committee who pulled the reunion together. It was very well done!

Some of the reunion festivities took place on Friday night--including a singing reunion with folks from Show & Chamber. I was reminded how much music was a part of my life then and how much I LOVED singing with these people. We did a few numbers from memory and I was completely astounded by how much I could remember, especially since most of it I haven't thought about in 20 years!!! I guess that's the power of music. And, even after 20 years and a few voice changes, we all sounded pretty good. I left feeling inspired to do something more with my talent.

After a couple of hours with my Show & Chamber friends, I headed over to Mimi's Cafe to have dessert with some of the girls--now women--I grew up with. We visited for over 2 hours! I left feeling incredibly blessed to have grown up with these beautiful women and to know them now. Wow! Incredible life stories. We've all changed...and I'd say we're all better for the past 20 years.

Michelle, Me, Andrea, Jerilynn, Deann, Jennifer, Corrie.

So, my last comment: High school for most of us was full of insecurities about looks, popularity, grades, friends, and fitting in. It's a time when lifelong friendships were formed and we started really developing who and what we would be when we grew up. The reunion tonight was a reminder that, despite some painful and hard high school days, it was all worth it in the end. We turned out pretty good.

Saturday #20-July 25, 2009

2009-07-26T17:28:00.019-06:00

30 Mile Bike Adventure!
It all started when Jennifer wanted to go camping for the July 24th weekend. Amy didn't. So, we compromised and came up with a great idea to go on a long bike ride adventure. Amy offered to do some research on some trail options which would be fun for inexperienced and amateur riders! The longest bike ride we'd been on, to date, was from our neighborhood to the lake...about 6 miles. Of course, that time we were in a crazy rain storm. Anyway, that story didn't happen on a Saturday so isn't part of our blog.

We agreed to start at 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Jennifer showed up right on the dot as Amy was still eating her cereal. Two potty trips and one quick reconnaissance mission back to the computer, we finally got the bikes loaded on the back of Jen's car around 8:30.

Here was our plan:

Caravan to Utah Lake State Park and park Amy's vehicle.
Amy jumps into Jen's car and we mad dash it to Soldier Hollow, Heber--a 30 minute drive up the canyon. Please note...30 minutes!
Unload the bikes and take a "leisurely" mountain biking trail along the north side of Deer Creek Reservoir. Our assumption-based on Amy's online research-was that this trail was relatively easy. "The ideal family ride" on a "gravel surface" with a "mostly straight" trail, with ONLY "about 400 feet of total climbing." Apparently someone only read what she wanted to and did not really pay attention to the details. After all, there were "some slightly-steep sections that require good braking control and balance to avoid dumping in the gravel." Hmmm...that would have been good to know!
From the dam at Deer Creek, we would DISCOVER a connecting trail to the Provo River Parkway trail which technically starts at Vivian Park.
Ride the Provo River Parkway from Vivian Park to the mouth of Provo Canyon.
Stop for lunch at Subway.
Finish our ride from the mouth of Provo Canyon, following along the Provo River, ending up at Utah Lake.
Be home, maybe around 1:00 or 2:00...if we took our time.

Here's the reality...

We left Soldier Hollow at 9:45 a.m. on a perfect bike-ride kind of Summer day--overcast with a few showers. See how happy we are? Silly girls...Trix are for kids.

Five minutes into to our little excursion, we had to stop...and walk our bikes uphill.

And five minutes later, we had to stop and walk our bikes up hill.

Five minutes later we screamed our way down the first major "slightly-steep section". And then huffed and puffed our way up the next "slightly-steep section." Yeah, we weren't really prepared.

Of course, on our adventure, we were able to enjoy lovely vistas and many different varieties of "wildlife"...including a bear! A big black bear! Or really, just your average, run of the mill COW!

One thing which helped us get through the first part of our adventure was counting down the mile posts. "1 MILE ah, ah, ah, ha!" said with Sesame Street's The Count's accent and funny laugh, "and only 29 more to go!"

When we finally reached the Deer Creek dam, 2 hours and 8.2 miles later, we were extremely happy to see a paved bike path (and a bathroom).

So, then we started on the second half of our adventure--DISCOVERING a trail from the dam to Vivian Park. The paved bike path was deceptive. It lasted for less than a mile and ended in some sage brush somewhere slightly west of the dam and between Highway 89 and the river. For some reason, based on our last minute reconnaissance with online MapQuest, we thought there was a path running along the Heber Creeper railroad tracks. Hmmm...there wasn't. And actually, we weren't anywhere near the railroad tracks when the bike path ended.

We had three options:

Go back 8.2 miles on the dirt road "trail of death" to get Jen's car.
Ride against traffic on Highway 89 "the death road" meant for cars only, to Vivian Park.
Break a trail to the Heber Creeper rail road tracks and "ride" on the tracks to Vivian Park.

We opted for number 3 in favor of staying alive. Yeah, what we didn't know then was...
We would have to scale down a mountain, 100+ feet, at a decline with at least a 60 degree slope.

Here's Jen attempting the decline after Amy crashed down it with her bike. It doesn't look steep in this picture, but trust us...it was the worst decline we had faced yet!!! And yes, we are laughing our heads off as we type this, realizing how wimpy this picture really looks!

The other thing we didn't know was that the Heber Creeper isn't called the Heber Creeper for nothing...it creeped up on us as we were walking down the tracks. Jen said, "Do you hear something?" Amy said, "Uh, no...the river?" Jen then turned around and saw the engine of the Heber Creeper, creeping right behind us. It was probably only 30 feet behind us before we realized it was there, just as the conductor blew the train whistle. We instantly jumped off the tracks and then waved, with a mixture of relief and terror, at all the folks on the train. Too bad we weren't quick enough to jump on the back of train and hitch a ride to Vivian Park. It would have saved us another two hours...

Of WALKING our bikes almost 6 miles down the railroad tracks. Because it's not as easy as one would think to ride (thug, thunk, thug, thunk, thug, thunk) over the railroad ties.

At least, we are still smiling! After all, it's an adventure, right?

Of course, if you know anything about the Heber Creeper, and you're walking along the railroad tracks, you know you're bound to meet it going down the canyon and going back up...

We finally walked into Vivian Park at about 1:30. We then had the wonderful pleasure of coasting down a PAVED BIKE PATH to the mouth of Provo Canyon and lunch at the Subway right there at the gas station. We covered 6 miles in less than 30 minutes!

So, why did we stop for a photo at Centaur Press? Well, this is where it all started, friends! It was during a momentous press check in 2004 when Jen and Amy really became friends. We both worked at Franklin Covey and Jen the purchasing agent was trying to impress the new project manager, Amy, with her attention to detail and color! Who knew royal blue could be so bright? Ah, the good old days...we're glad we've moved on.

If you've never biked the Provo River Parkway, we recommend it. Especially the paved parts. It's a beautiful and easy ride, perfect for the casual biker--like us! Be sure to enjoy the unexpected moments too--like the ice cream truck! Don't we look like excited little kids? We were!

The last 4 miles seemed to take FOREVER! We counted them down, "4 Miles! Ah, ah, ah, ha!" "3 Miles! Ah, ah, ah, ha!" "2 Miles! Ah, ah, ah, ha!" And finally...ONE MILE LEFT!

We did it! And we finished our adventure by 4:45...yes, folks, 7 hours, 30 miles, 6 bathroom stops, and 2 ice cream cones later = priceless memories!

Here's a map of the first part of our adventure. We haven't been able to find a map of the entire Provo River Parkway or of the Heber Creeper route.

Saturday #19-July 18, 2009

2009-07-19T19:26:00.000-06:00

Sometimes the Saturday fun I have planned doesn't really go according to schedule. And that's okay. You have to roll with the punches. And sometimes, the Saturday you have planned rolls into Monday and Tuesday and even Wednesday of the next week.

My Saturday o' Fun was all about an "Amy Day." You know, spa treatments, hair cut, shopping, pedicure... And all those things (with the exception of a pedicure) happened...eventually.

So, for all of you wanting to plan a Saturday o' Fun with spa treatments, let me recommend...

The Sego Lily Day Spa!

Check out their awesome spa treatments and relaxing amenities (steam room, sauna, etc.) at www.segolilydayspa.com.

In upcoming posts, look for Jen's belated birthday facial at Sego Lily! I'm planning it for a Saturday so we can blog about it!

Saturday #18--July 11, 2009

2009-07-13T14:00:00.000-06:00

AF 1st Ward Youth Conference 2009, Fish Lake

So, I put the burden of a blog-worthy Saturday O' Fun on the YM & YW of my ward. And they came through with flying colors! Saturday was our pack-up-and-drive-home last day of Youth Conference. The kids were amazing and the conference was a huge success! Here's the group shot--most everyone is fashioned in their custom designed Youth Conference t-shirts. It's amazing how creatively they used the theme--Be Thou An Example. Seriously, Spiderman and a muscle tee?

One of our ward's favorite Girl's Camp traditions (three years running) is to duct tape Nicole to a tree. Unfortunately, we weren't able to do it this year at Heber Valley, so we made up for it by duct taping her to a tree at youth conference. I brought extra duct tape just in case we needed to put a few kids in "time-out", but they were all very well behaved!

Luckily, we packed up and headed home just in time to miss a torrential downpour. Here's my car crew enjoying a quick stretch and dash in the rain while we filled up for gas in Gunnison. Poor Isaiah was stuck in a car with three girls who vetoed all his music requests. I don't think he complained too loud.

Here I am looking tired, sunburned, but happy. I really had a great time with the best youth ever! Ummm, yeah, keep both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road...

With Youth Conference over, I'm at the end of six crazy, busy weeks. Next Saturday is a bit of R&R before the next six crazy, busy (work) weeks begin!

Saturday #17-July 4, 2009

2009-07-06T01:01:00.000-06:00

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!! I celebrated the holiday in Arizona--doing fun & different things for a Saturday o' Fun on the 4th of July. For instance...

There wasn't a parade...but there was a pancake breakfast (with lots and lots of BACON) and a patriotic service with a flag ceremony (thanks to my nephew Will & the Boy Scouts).

There was a HUGE water fight with Kendra's neighbors. All dry folks were soon wet. My sisters made sure all my dry spots were drenched!!!

There wasn't a backyard BBQ...but there was a Senora Co-Housing Pot-Luck, with a dessert contest. Kendra's USA shaped pavlova took 2nd place!

There was NAPPING and face painting-always a favorite holiday tradition. Here's Fiona taking a little snooze (under a blanket in Tucson's 100+ degree weather for crying out loud) and Kendra's neighbor with her face painted.

There wasn't Amy's Sidewalk Spectacular Fireworks Display...but there were glow stick "fireworks" and Pop-its.

And there was a poem by my 10 year old nephew Will.

Fireworks by Will Smith

BOOM

goes the fireworks

goes the boy

AHH

goes the boy again

BANG

goes the fireworks

ZOOM

the cracker goes as fast as lightening

BOOM

BANG

ZOOM

ZING

POP

BLAMM

goes the finale

Thanks Arizona Family! I had a grand 4th of July holiday and a perfect Saturday o' Fun!

Saturday # 16 - June 28 - Brugge Belgium Baby!

2009-07-04T17:55:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday I spent most of the day in Brugge Belgium, or "the Venice of the North." It's about an hour train ride outside of Brussels. This city dates back to the 12th Century! It's so old! ("It's so old".. is a comment I said over and over when Amy and I were in Italy a couple years ago... such a profound, deep statement I know!)
Back to Brugge... I had the pleasure of taking a boat ride through this fantastic city. Because I was one of the last people to catch the boat, the "skipper" asked me to sit in the middle (don't rock the boat!) that's why most of my boat pictures have heads in them. What I really wanted to do is lean over the side and dangle my finger tips in the water while I held my decorative, lace bumbershoot over my head.
Brugge reminds me of Cinderella. I imaged her locked up in one of these tiny houses while her prince charming galloped around holding her glass slipper. The city offers a horse and carriage tour.. and my favorite sound that day was the sound of horseshoes and carriage wheels on the cobblestones.
I bought Belgium lace, ate a waffle, had lunch at a little outdoor cafe, and ran down the street with the local marching band! Yes, the official Brugge marching band! It was a city holiday that day and I jogged down the street along side the local marching band. It was a fabulous Saturday-o-fun activity!

Saturday #16--June 27, 2009

2009-06-30T14:06:00.000-06:00

Max, Brityn & baby Madeline are moving!!! I helped them load up the moving truck on Saturday. I'm not sure it counts as a Saturday o' Fun since I wanted to pull every box off the truck and insist they stay in Utah--specifically Orem. Oh well! New adventures await them in hot, Hot, HOT Las Vegas.

SATURDAY OF FUN CONTINUED--Brian and I helped Max drive down to Las Vegas on Monday and unload the truck. For five+ hours, this is pretty much all I saw...I got pretty sick of seeing the back end of this U-Haul truck.

Somewhere between Orem & St. George

We were in Arizona for about 20 miles. Angela jokingly gave me a hard time for not coming to visit her since I was in the state. Hmmm...sounds like a guilt tactic!

Crossing into Nevada.

My baby brother...I know he's all grown up with a wife and kid and a bright future ahead of him...but I had a really hard time saying goodbye and leaving him all on his own.

Of course, Brian and I had a fun drive back home. We made a 10 mile out-of-our-way pit stop to the Home of the Pirates...totally worth it for the photo op!

Saturday #15, June 20, 2009

2009-06-20T13:37:00.000-06:00

My mom is home for a few weeks, clearing up some immigration issues with her green card. We're not sure how long she'll be home, but in the mean time, we're filling up every moment with family time and family favorites--Saturday #15 epitomized both!

My Saturday o' Fun started with a field trip with my grandmother, Aunt Laura & Uncle Chuck to Heber. We checked out the campground site for our 2010 Smith/Easter Family Reunion. I took lots and lots and lots of photos...but none really interesting enough for this blog.

I spent Saturday afternoon and evening with my mom and siblings. Angela, Tim & Athena came up to see my mom, so Saturday definitely included time with my nieces! Dinner on Saturday was Lemon Chicken (see recipe below), which is definitely a favorite family! Since my folks have been on a mission, Brian has become the expert Lemon Chicken chef.

And, just before the strike of midnight, my brother Joseph flew in to town for a visit too. So, definitely Saturday #15 was all about family.

Brian "hamming" it up for the camera!

Janelle and my mom putting the finishing touches on dinner.

The Nieces! Athena and Lauren taking turns holding Madeline.

RECIPE: Lemon Chicken

Marinate 1 pound chicken (de-boned/cubed) for ten minutes in:

1 1/4 tsp Rice Wine

1 1/4 tsp Soy Sauce

1/4 tsp. Salt

1/4 tsp. Pepper

1 egg yoke

1 1/2 tbs. Starch

Coat marinated chicken in:

4 tbs. Starch

2 tbs. Flour

Fry in 3 cups of oil until crispy and thoroughly cooked.

Lemon Sauce (we double it & take out the salt)

Bring to boil:

1/4 tsp. Salt

3 tsp. Sugar

2 Tbs. Lemon Juice

3 Tbs. Water

1/2 tsp. Starch

Pour slightly cooled/thickened Lemon Sauce over chicken and serve warm with rice and stir-fry vegetables.