Never Enough Orange

New Job

2011-10-15T16:14:00.002-05:00

Monday, I had an interview with Provo city to work for there government channel. I felt real good about, I had used a lot of the equipment they have and had experience doing much of everything. They were looking for 2 to 3 people to work part-time for them and I got a call Wednesday to start Thursday. They had an event that needed filming, so I got to go. I don't work again till Tuesday, so I'm not sure about my schedule but it is a plus.

This pretty much confirms we will stay in Provo till April when Erika will finally finish school. We do still need to figure out how we are going to get her to her student teaching and myself to both my jobs.

New Video

2011-09-15T19:35:00.002-05:00

So I've been working on Erika's Thesis video and this is the intro to the video, what do you think?

Update from Utah

2011-08-30T14:49:00.002-05:00

So Erika and I have been working on creating a time capsule and one of the things we decided to do was make a video tour of our first home, so here it is...

Now about last night; Erika worked late so we were going to go out to eat at Smashburger where I had purchased a Groupon ($24 of food for $2). However, we could not use it till today so we had a coupon for Quizno's, but the server for it was down, so we could not produce it. We did get what we needed at Staple's, a container for our time capsule and a notebook Erika needed for class. We were both still hungry, it being about 9 o'clock now, we were in the area of a pizza place everyone said was amazing so we stopped there. Unlucky for us though, it was very crowded and we didn't want to wait. On down the road, we finally came up with a new restaurant to go to, but it was closed once we got there. So we went home and ate dinner at 10 o'clock. FAILURE.

100 things

2011-05-21T21:37:00.005-05:00

I saw this on my mother's blog The Beverly Buzz and figured I would play along.

Things I have done are in listed in the first list, and things I have not are after.

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Bathed in a river

5. Spoke in front of a big crowd

6. Had a whirlwind love affair that broke your heart

7. Taught yourself an art from scratch

8. Had a pillow fight

9. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

10. Built a snow fort

11. Gone skinny dipping

12. Learned a foreign language

13. Stayed up for more than 24 hours

14. Been on a cruise

15. Seen Niagara Falls in person

16. Can drive a stick shift car

17. Gone rock climbing

18. Been serenaded

19. Walked on a beach by moonlight

20. Broken a bone

21. Started your own business

22. Quit a job because you were totally unhappy

23. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

24. Played in the mud

25. Gone to a drive-in

26. Taken a martial arts class

27. Served at a soup kitchen

28. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

29. Flown in a helicopter

30. Saved a favorite childhood toy

31. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

32. Pieced a quilt

33. Been fired from a job

34. Broken something extremely expensive

35. Been on a speeding motorcycle

36. Visited the White House

37. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

38. Had chickenpox

39. Met someone famous

40. Lost a loved one

41. Conversed with someone when neither of you spoke each others language

42. Been stung by a bee

43. Acted in a play

1. Saved someone’s life

2. Joined a book club

3. Sat on a jury

4. Toured the UN

5. Hiked to Machu Picchu

6. Swam in the Indian Ocean

7. Dirty danced

8. Had more than 5 surgeries

9. Threw a surprise party for someone

10. Won over $1000 in a raffle or lottery

11. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

12. Seen Michelangelo’s David

13. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

14. Visited Africa

15. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

16. Been to the Eiffel Tower

17. Kissed in the rain passionately

18. Been in a movie

19. Visited the Great Wall of China

20. Joined a prayer group

21. Visited Russia

22. Gone whale watching

23. Received flowers for no reason

24. Gone sky diving

25. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

26. Bounced a check

27. Eaten caviar

28. Stood in Times Square

29. Toured the Everglades

30. Seen the changing of the guards in London

31. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

32. Published a book

33. Visited the Vatican

34. Got a tattoo

35. Been to a coffee shop in Amsterdam

36. Seen the aurora borealis in person

37. Read the entire Bible

38. Visited Hawaii

39. Watched a meteor shower

40. Been to the Taj Mahal

41. Walked on a glacier in Alaska

42. Caught and held a snake

43. Bungee jumped

44. Found an arrowhead or fossil

45. Rescued an animal

46. Ate sweet breads, glands or tripe

47. Seen Mount Rushmore in person

48. Grown your own vegetables

49. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

50. Slept on an overnight train

51. Hiked to base camp on Mt. Everest

52. Watched an animal being born

53. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

54. Seen a total eclipse

55. Trained a dog to do cool tricks

56. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

57. Seen an Amish community

A Little Weird

2011-02-13T22:43:00.002-06:00

I love my father. I inherited several great qualities from him including my athleticism, and one I am proud of, the ability to grow facial hair. Sorry, Cam. Like my father, I can grow a rather attractive beard and it suits me. I usually stick with the goatee though. However in this place of Utah, facial hair is frowned upon and considered unholy so I have a job, in a warehouse, which forbids facial hair so I have to shave every day. I have always used an electric razor but when we went on our cruise, I picked up a free sample of a razor. I purchased some shaving gel some time ago to eventually try shaving. I have very coarse hair and by noon, have "5 o'clock shadow." I wanted to try a real blade but wasn't sure how it would work. Not like that, more time wise and if I could get all the hair. Today, I decided to shave after I showered this afternoon. I used way too much gel and went with the grain, but it seemed to do alright, though not much closer than the electric. It took me a little over 10 minutes to do so, which was what I was figuring. Too much time in the morning, but I think I will try it again. Or just move and grow back my goatee.

On to item number 2;

I have been slowly putting together a "72 hour kit" or "Bug out bag." I'm conflicted about the size so I have decided on 2. 3 if we include one for Erika. I want a small one for each of us and a large one with bags and a tent for more extreme situations. While researching online for suggestions on how to fulfill these bags, I found something Erika and I found rather interesting and useful. A survival Flash-drive. I started working on this so we can have all our documents in an emergency, considering a computer is available. I used one of my smaller flashdrives that has encryption but am off to a good start. Too bad its about time for bed tonight. Maybe I will actually sleep.

Thoughts and Feelings

2011-02-02T21:42:00.003-06:00

So mostly on this blog I just post events and pictures, maybe updates on our lives here in .... awkward pause, ummm....this place. However, tonight I am going to do something new and different and for those that know me, you may want to sit down. I want to share a goal, a feeling, a dream, of mine. I want to live on a boat. by the earlier blog you can see that I went on a cruise with my wife, but for those that really know me, you know I really enjoy the water. I love to water ski but I just love to be in the sun with the beauty that is around me. I used to take my jet ski out when I was younger and just float down the river because it was where I felt the happiest. The appeal comes from that and my love of adventure. It would be different from the normality of society which I do not like to conform. I like to go my own way and this way if I get tired of a place, I could travel very easily. I do see faults in this, especially now that I am married. Maybe one day, Pop. This could have been brought on by the fact it is 10 degrees outside.

On a side note, the current music on my rotation might surprise you. Any guesses?

Well, Better than Ezra is alway up there. All time fav, but I'm talking more of a current "flavor of the week" (sorry, not a hint - not American Hi-Fi)

-Keep guessing

It was Anberlin, I really like there new CD, especially Art of War.

-Give up?

Its Miranda Lambert's new one, Revelotion.

So that is all.

Cruise pictures

2011-01-24T20:58:00.019-06:00

So as you may know, Erika and I went on a belated honeymoon. We took a much needed vacation away from the cold of Utah to sunny Southern California for a cruise to Mexico. Let us see the pictures....

Erika in front of the Newport Temple. It is right beside my greeny ward building. It is not a cookie cutter temple, but not a larger one, but it sure is impressive looking.
Me

Some kind Californian took our picture in front of the doors. You can't really see, but their is a remarkable wooden carving above the door.
Erika at the progressive fountain on the grounds.
Another kind Californian taking our picture
This is on the ship after dinner, our room steward left this concoction of towels on our bed. I thought it was cute.
"The Blowhole" in Mexico.
Us waiting for a show
another towel creation awaiting our return in our room
Me enjoying the hot tub all by myself. A candid shot showing my stoic demeanor. Now I see why everyone thinks I'm mad all the time.
Sunset at sea
My feet enjoying the hazy dusk
Erika wrapped up in a beach towel to stay warm
Sunrise at Long Beach
Erika at sunrise

Over looking Long Beach
after 3 nights of relaxing
breakfast outside where seagulls awaiting our uneaten food

Tennessee

2010-12-19T11:47:00.000-06:00

Here we come. Hope we can get ready in time.

Getting to know me

2010-11-28T10:52:00.004-06:00

1. What are your middle names?
Darrell and Janell
2. How long have you been together?
2 and a half years, married for 1 year 3 months and 6 days.
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?
about a week or so
4. Who asked who out?
I did. I invited her to Tyler's father's birthday party and then to go waterskiing.
5. How old are each of you?
I'm 29, she is quite a bit younger.
6. Did you go to the same school?
not at all.
7. Are you from the same home town?
No. Same state. She grew up in Memphis area, myself, Clarksville.
8. Who is the smartest?
I would have to say me, unless it comes to dance, or spelling, or Disney or....
9. Who majored in what?
I have a Bachelor's in Communications and she's working on hers in Dance Education.
10. Who is the most sensitive?

Her, not even close.
11. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Besides home in Tennessee, we went to St. George once. And Idaho.
12. Who has the worst temper?
That's probably her as well.
13. How many children do you want?
Depends on who you ask. Right now, we couldn't handle one...
14. Who does the cooking?
Both of us, but more her. She is better at that skill.
15. Who is more social?
By far me. She is super shy.
16. Who is the neat freak?
ME! I am way OCD about things.
17. Who is the most stubborn?
I would say Erika again.
18. Who wakes up earlier?
Erika used to wake up way earlier, Now, its about the same.
19. Where was your first date?
As I said before, my friend Tyler's Father's Birthday party
20. Who has the biggest family?
She has one older brother and three younger sisters, I have two older sisters and one younger, so her by one
21. Do you get flowers often?
nope. never have but I'm not complaining.
22. How do you spend the holidays?
We take turns staying with our parents, but we always try to see both sets-They are only about an 90 minutes apart.
23. Who is more jealous?
She is, so does that make me more trusting?
24. How long did it take to get serious?
Not too long, before she left to go back to school.
25. Who eats more?
I eat more at a time, she eats little amounts, but more often.
26. What do you do for a living?
She runs the Eatec at BYU's food court and is a student. I deliver pizzas and work at a warehouse for Emergency Essentials.
27. Who does the laundry?
Me.
28. Who's better with the computer?

Me, but she is learning.
29. Who drives when you are together?
I do, her driving is a little timid.
30. What is your song?
Yes, My friend Tyler wrote us a song for our wedding. "If I Forget"

Always late, but worth the wait

2010-11-05T22:58:00.005-05:00

So Erika and I loved the cakes that we saw inspired by Lauren's Blog, so we decided to venture and try it ourselves. Erika was hankering for Kit-kats, so we thought we could use them on the outside to make a bucket. But what would we put in our bucket? We went to the grocery store and looked on the candy isle and came up with a brilliant idea. a bucket of worms. Reminiscent of the childhood "dirt cake" my mom used to make as a child. We found some Kroger style Oreo's as well to make the dirt, but they only had double-stuffed so hence all the white. We had lots of fun making it, but i'm not sure how eating it is going to go. maybe we can take it to someone's house who is watching a game.

new job

2010-10-19T21:32:00.002-05:00

So today I started working at domino's delivering pizzas. Its been odd getting started, but I caught on quite easily and was able to make a few deliveries on my own. Hopefully I can get more comfortable and get more hours.

We have.....

2010-09-17T11:45:00.002-05:00

INTERNET! We got it hooked up about 2 weeks ago and it is great. Now all I have to do is hook up a wireless router.

Idaho Trip

2010-09-17T10:08:00.014-05:00

I know this is way overdue, but I'm a slacker. Back at the end of July, I went with our boy scouts up to Idaho to venture into the wilderness. We had a 30 mile, week long backpacking trip. I kept a journal every night in my small tent so here it is:

Day 1 - It was a hard day, we were up at 4 this morning, drove till about 1, and hiked about 7 miles in 4 hours. I did at least another mile with backtracking and looking for people. We had some struggles and everyone is tired. its about 10 thirty. On the plus, dinner was tastee. Bugs are everywhere. I think it is sleep time. I set my tent up far from everyone else as not to be bothered. I love my wife.

Day 2 - It rained last night. Thunder & Lightening. I slept pretty well except for that. We had a good hike where we crested a mountain. some were struggling so me and few others went down to carry their packs up the mountain. We found our camping spot, but Talmage and I reconned for a better one. We found it. I even got to bathe in the lake and am excited for fresh clothes. Dinner was good some people caught some fish so I got a little bit. I am pretty tired. Hope I stay warm tonight.

Day 3 - We combined two days hike to be able to go home Friday. So we hiked 8 miles today. We had two peaks and some good lakes. Its really nice out here. The mosquitoes are worse though. I have eaten a lot because I have so much food. I have shared but have enough for a few more days, but should only need one. I most certainly could use a bath. I have been leading the charge most all day. I feel really strong. Tired and sore, but I am doing better than I thought. All the practice really helped. One more night.

HERE IS WHERE THE FUN BEGINS - Day 4

This was supposed to be a long day, but our last. Like the last few days, I lead the charge but this trail was much more difficult and overgrown. I had 6 of the quicker boys. 3 priest, 2 teachers, and a deacon. We lost it a few times but were able to locate it once again. After several hours, we noticed we were not where we should be. Especially when the trail completely vanished. We Bushwhacked through a marsh and found a stream we followed but it kept flowing the wrong way. We saw a ridge and went up it to see what we saw, passing another trail, and found the highway. we took the trail till it to vanished and had to backtrack back to the road. It was a long way off. We crossed the Salmon River and came up through some Idaho mountain lodge/resort. We talked to some people there and were instructed that where we needed to go was 4 miles up the highway and 2 miles down the road. We told them how long and far we had been walking but they were no help. We got to the highway and put out our thumbs. The third car that passed us was a minivan with a dude with large earrings and mutt chops and was laughing. He took pity on us and loaded all our packs into the back. The boys, all six, got in the middle seat, while I got the passenger seat. He drove us back to the resort and we thanked him profusely. We offered him freeze-dried food or money we did not have, but he laughed saying "I am pretty sure you have nothing that I want." At the resort, it was another 4 miles to the other side of the lake where we were to meet up. The boys were not real happy for another 4 miles but we found the cars (one belong to the father of one of the boys) and were able to get in and find some money for the ferry. I sent 2 boys across on the ferry with equipment and the rest were all going to camp at the cars. When the boys got across the lake, they ran into another leader coming back to stay at the car if we happened to stumble there. We all came home that night due to the disorganization. Fun times. We all made it home safe.

The End

Lake Trip

2010-07-22T14:56:00.010-05:00

As a combinded Deacon/Beehive activity, one of the ward members took us out to Provo Lake for an evening of fun.

This is their son Reid, who I get to babysit on occasions. He even got out on the wakeboard and showed us how to do it.

A couple of Deacons trying desperatly to hold on for their lives.

Reid's brother Davis and his mom.

Someone fell off

Me back on a board after a few years

Aaron was the only Deacon to try the board

update..with pictures

2010-07-19T17:26:00.007-05:00

Erika and I again went camping over the weekend. We went to the same place we had as scouts the week before. It was a bit hotter and my pack was heavier so I struggled a bit. It took us about 2 and a half hours to go 2 and a half hours and about 2000 feet in elevation. We ate our packed dinner once we got there and set up the tent. we went to bed pretty early with such a exhausting hike. we awoke pretty early, its easy to do when the sun comes up at 6, and I got started on breakfast. we tried something new. I brought some charcoal (I thought it was instant light, but it was not the case) I had to start a fire to get the charcoal going and we made tried making some pancakes but they didn't turn out too great. The hot chocolate was good though.
This is me repacking in the morning.
Erika having fun with the camera from inside the tent
We finally have a picture in our empty frame from our wedding.
On the hike home by Turtle rock.
Overlooking Utah valley.

good weekend

2010-07-13T13:51:00.003-05:00

Erika and I had a very enjoyable weekend. It is a whole lot better since she does not work ALL day on Saturday. So to recap... Thursday night we had a 3 day backpacking adventure with the deacons. I was only going to be able to go for the first night, but I was excited. Good preparation for our 5 day-30 mile trip. (or so I thought) anyway, we took off to the top of the "Y" with 4 boys and 3 leaders, myself included. Our Scout master showed us how to appropriately pack for weight and stability. I think the boys learned after the first day. we went about a mile past the top of the "Y" to a nice little meadow. It was dark when we arrived (and the other leaders were quite a bit behind) but we pitched our tents and had a little something to eat. During the night we had some visitors (deer and rodents) and found some food eaten. I took pictures, but forgot to bring them to put on here. I took off for home in the morning while the rest went on their way.

Friday afternoon, Erika and I headed to Idaho for a reception for a friend of Erika's. According to the new bride, seeing Erika made her day. We went off trying to find a place to camp for the night, it was getting dark so we tried to find a place in Idaho Falls, but after driving around and striking out we went to our original destination in Pocatello. A KOA not far from some friends of my family. We got there after dark and camped. Good thing I know what I'm doing. I was tired so I was able to sleep in longer by pulling the sleeping bag over my head. When we left, we decided to be good and pay for our campsite but I was astonished by the price. $30! just for a small patch of grass.

We went shopping since it was still early and got Erika's dress for her Brother's wedding. She also got a few workout clothes. We each found some shoes as well, me some for hiking and her some for her new job.

We went and saw our future sister-in-law and our family friends and then headed home. We were both tired. I think I fell asleep around 10 with the light on while Erika was doing homework.

Sunday, we got to enjoy the day together and we went to church, even though the World Cup Final was going on. We played Monopoly till bed time.

Tomorrow....

2010-06-23T09:49:00.002-05:00

Is my birthday!!!!! I will be 29. wow. old.
I accept paypal and cash or amazon giftcards.

Saturday Night Party

2010-06-22T09:31:00.002-05:00

I feel lucky. Saturday night after Erika finished up at work, we got together with a couple of her co-workers in the food court office and played board games till late in the night. We got some food and had a really fun time. We played "Betrayal at the House on the Hill" which is a really interesting out of print game. Erika won. In fact, she won every game. Even our insanely long game of "Phase 10" which lasted till 1:30 in the morning. The cool thing was the Wilk closes at 11:30 on Saturday nights, but since the other three people parting have after-hours access so it was cool. Its been a long time since Erika and I had been up that long. However, its a good thing we do not have church till 1 because it was 10 before we got out of bed.

make-over

2010-06-11T15:46:00.003-05:00

As you all know, well hopefully, Erika is big on making goals and to-do list and the such. She has been making me set forth some goals to better myself and I guess it is rubbing off because at the beginning of the week, I made my own goal. I was going to drive less. No more quick trips to school in the morning, no more driving down to the park to play. That means walking back up to the house.

I bought a new bag, and gave the old one to Erika so that when we go on hikes we can both have a hydration pack. I really like this one because it can hold all my stuff (yes, I carry a purse) plus I can put my cleats into one of the compartments. That was a key selling point so it made my goal much more obtainable. I have lost count of the times I have walked back and forth to school and the park but I have done very well. Erika has been supportive in my efforts, walking home after work and such. I can say I am wore out from it though. I walked to church the other day for a service project. I did drive my deacons to a campout. that is another story all together. The reasons for doing this are 1) to get in better shape. I am planning to go on a 30 mile, 5 day trip with my young men through the Sawtooth mountains in Idaho. I figure that if I am walking everywhere then I will be used to all the walking. 2) to save money on gas. All these little trips add up and I am hoping to save the money we don't really have as best I can. 3) to be more green.

that is all.

10 Miles without water?

2010-06-04T22:12:00.002-05:00

So as Erika mentioned, I went on a 10 mile hike on Wednesday afternoon. Myself, along with the Scout Master, were leading our deacons north down the Bonneville Shore Trail. It was the same trail Erika and I went down a few days before, but not nearly 10 miles. Well, we met at five and two boys showed up. (out of six) One had a back pack with bottles of water and some snacks. The other had his iPod. We decided to head out, but instead of the trail, we went down the road to gather the other deacons. The first said he was not home. The second grabbed his high tops while the third was not home. The last one grabbed his shoes as well and then we went to the boy who had brought the back pack to stop and get supplied. He had enough hydration packs for the boys. Myself and the other leader had ours. I actually carry mine around all the time. So finally after about 40 minutes we were ready to go.

We hiked down the trail and followed a deer path for a while. then we blazed our own till we found the right one. Once we got about 3 miles in, the trail started switching back so up the hill we went. We found a fork and went one way and after several miles, ended up back at the fork again. We went as far as we could, till a fence stopped our progress. Some teenager even yelled at us to get off his mountain.

The boys did pretty well, but it was dark by the time we got back. 10 miles is a long way, but we made it. Good preperation for our 30 mile, five day trip at the end of July.

Just have to make sure to bring the Duct Tape

Can't Kick a Trend

2010-06-04T22:11:00.002-05:00

visited 26 states (52%)
Create your own visited map of The United States

Happiness

2010-05-31T12:04:00.004-05:00

Yes Lauren I am Happy. I have been much happier this month and the only reasons Erika and I can attribute it to is that I got laid off from Staples so I do not have to deal with that headache every day. They are not doing real well, especially the store at which I was working. I even heard talks of closing it down but that is enough of that. Today is Memorial day and Erika has it off of school. We have had a really great weekend. Erika and I actually got to see the play we tried to go to last week. It was super fun (not a musical) rendition of the Three Musketeers. We also were able to eat at the restaraunt that we tried and failed last week. It was good and a very nice atmosphere, but the food took a half hour to come. That almost made us late for the play.

Saturday Erika got off earlier from work so we made some homemade pizzas with whole wheat crust and watched planet 51. I also got to play a full-field soccer game with Ben. That was fun. I had a break away, but failed to finish. I felt really old and tired.

Sunday I made dinner (another of my goals) and we were able to enjoy it all by ourselves. Pot roast with carrots, onions, and potatoes. Broccoli, and made from scratch whole wheat rolls. Yum, Yum, Yum.

Today we slept in and are going to go play outside. Either at the park or go for a hike. I can work on my tan while Erika works on her burn. She has already mentioned how dark I am getting. We have dinner plans at a church friend's at 5 but the rest of the day is wide open.

Anyway - its time to go.

P.S. if anyone knows of a job around the Provo area, I sure could use it.

Way too long

2010-05-25T21:58:00.003-05:00

So it has been a while since I have blogged, but I get on here and never know what to write. Erika recently pressed me to set more goals for myself and one of them was to blog and write in my journal more often. At least once a week, usually on Sundays. That is our day together so we are going to do it together (she write in hers, I write in mine. not write one together, mom.) so that we can get it done. I also want to spend more time writing a book. I think I could do well with that. I have seen a few people I know publish some books so how hard could it be?

Goal #2 is to learn a skill; I want to learn to cook better. Erika blogged about our meal last night that she was kind enough to attribute to me, though she was the boss, I just followed instruction. It happened to turn out well. So tonight I made dinner for Erika. I'm not sure what it was, but it turned out fairly decent as well. I cut some potatoes with our mandolin slicer and fried them with some diced peppers. I cooked some sausage and added spices, since I like thing spicy. I did leave out the cayenne. Topped with shredded cheese. I enjoyed it. so that is the goal. We have enough leftovers to get us through the rest of the week but I am in charge of Sunday's dinner and Erika is going to invite one of her old roommates and her guy friend. Scary. My hardest part is coming up with side dishes. I think I am going to go easy and make a pot roast with broccoli and rolls. Erika is going to help me make them from scratch. OH! I helped Erika make some peanut butter cookies from scratch. I don't think I have ever done that.

Goal #3 is to do more workout activities. I tried running with Erika today, but my knee was just sore so I think swimming will have to suffice till my legs are not so sore. We did go swim yesterday at the BYU pool. That means I have to keep clean shaven. I even talked about doing something like yoga with Erika. 4 times a week is my goal. I am going to count today and yesterday. (I did play ultimate frisbee for about an hour and a half too.

Surprise

2010-03-05T20:09:00.002-06:00

I bought a new computer today. I had to order it, so I won't get it till Monday. :-(

Its a Dell XPS 8000, I'm upgrading from a Pentium 4 to an I5-750 so it should run Sony Vegas and Photoshop a lot better. 1TB of storage and 6 GB of RAM.

Erika said I could, that was the important part.

something to make my mom happy

2010-03-01T10:37:00.002-06:00

Stolen from my mommy
It's that time again--are you ready?

1. Have you ever fired a gun or shot a bow and arrow? Of course. The first merit badge I acquired was shotgun shooting

2. Do you know where your childhood best friends are? A few thanks to facebook

3. Do you usually arrive early, late, or on time? I hate being late, but now that I'm married it happens more than I like

4. Are you more of a New York or California type? California

5. Do you have a special ring tone? I try to make sure everyone important has their own. I like to know who it is before I look at the phone

6. What is your favorite type of chip? BBQ

7. Best comedy you've ever seen is .... Blazing Saddles, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Out Cold, Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

8. Have you ever cut your own hair? All the time. Its easy

9. If you were going to have an extreme makeover, would you rather it be about your house or your personal self? House. I am great

10. Are you allergic to anything? not really,

11. Why is it so hard to change? we fear the unknown

12. One last question dedicated to February love: CS Lewis said, "To love is to be vulnerable." Please share one example of that assertion or share any thought you'd like to about this topic. NO, I like being a robot.

I hate Utah

2009-12-17T20:20:00.001-06:00

I hate Utah

Christmas Time

2009-11-28T20:15:00.002-06:00

Touchdown Tennesee!!! I'm sitting in the Wilk actually watching Tennessee play as Christmas time approaches. I'm really excited about coming home. Yesterday, I worked Black Friday. I was up at 4 to be at work at 5. It was crazy. People are just....yeah. I would not want to spend my Thanksgiving camped out in front of a store. I did get to go with Erika to one of her relative's for lunch. She made a ham that was absolutly fabulous. We did not have much left over. Before that, I was able to find a game of football at the park. Overall, it was a good day including a good long nap. As for Christmas, Erika took me to work and then went shopping as we finished up our Christmas gifts. She flys home on the 21st of December while I will be home on the 23rd. Both of us fly back to Utah on the 1st, but actually only have half the trip together. It will be good to have a break and to see Superfly. I've been working full time at Staples and have become a manager in sorts, I even opened the store by myself the other day. So we will be home for Christmas, lets party. I'm hungry.

enough procrastination

2009-09-23T09:17:00.002-05:00

OK. So I bet everyone wants to know how great Erika and I are doing. Well, we stay pretty busy, especially Erika. Between here school and work I see her when I drop her off at school and when I pick her up in the evening, and on Sundays. We really like our Sundays together. We have had her little sister over for Sunday dinner the past 3 weeks and we usually can make a much better meal. Last Sunday we slow roasted a pork roast for about 17 hours in the crock pot. (Thank you to whomever gave that to us.) Erika pulled it and soaked it in barbecue sauce and it was soooooooooo good. Taylor, Erika's sister, made black eyed peas, rice, and cookies. It was wonderful. Erika says she judges how successful her creations are by my second helping. It was not as big this week but only because I took a lot the first time. Erika had made lasagna one week while her other little sisters were here and I hate half the pan in one sitting. It was so good.

Work is still pretty lame. I got promoted to a full time position, but have yet to see either the pay increase or hours. We have been doing well with our money, thanks to everyone who contributed there.

We are planning on coming home for Christmas. I should be there about the 23rd and Erika a few days before that.

We still have not received our Wedding Pictures yet, but as soon as we have them, we will post them. Ok, so maybe not as soon, but we will get them posted because I know Lauren and Holly will want to see them since they were not able to make it.

birthday

2009-06-28T22:08:00.002-05:00

yeah, so I'm supposed to blog. I do not now about what, but I am doing what I am told. I do that a lot. I had my birthday on Wednesday. I turned 28. wow, I am old. Erika's brother took me out for breakfast at a local place called "Guru's" it was really good. I had a breakfast quesadilla and some home fries, which unbeknown to me, had peppers and onions in them. yummy. I took Erika to get her dress fitted and then went to work for a few hours. we came home and she made me some cajun chicken spaghetti. she had to go to dance rehearsal, so I went to the park to play. When Erika got home, we had cake. oh, presents. she got me a football remote and took me to see Transformers 2 at midnight. we got home around 3 so we did not get to much sleep. especially when I had to bring her her homework she had forgotten for her 8 o'clock class.

new abode

2009-05-02T21:52:00.006-05:00

so I have finally moved out of my car and into a real house. I moved in on Monday and am about settled. it is up on the mountain so it has a nice view. Erika and I will be living there after we get married so that is a big plus. The place belongs to her Chinese Dance Teacher and I am watching her dog for her while she is in China over the summer. It turned out better than expected because I had put a deposit on a place in her ward, but when I went to fill out the contract, I needed to be a BYU student. Since I am not, I was not sure what I was going to do. That afternoon, Erika had a final there and talked about renting a section of her house. Things worked out very well. I do not have to live with anyone else so I can keep it clean, and the best news; it has a washer and dryer!

Here are pictures:
The dining room table overlooking the valley.
The TV in the living room with Erika's piano

The lovely KitchenMy bed in the bedroom

New job

2009-04-09T17:13:00.002-05:00

So I have been out here almost 2 weeks and yesterday I started a new job. I am working part time at staples. yeah, its not the ideal job nor pays what I used to make, but it is something and I am happy to have it. Though sometimes I get frustrated because I do have to make changes, things are going really well. Erika is very happy and Ben has not kicked me off his couch yet. hopefully I can pick up another job or a better one but I feel confident things will work out.

I miss my Tennessee family. Happy Easter everyone

Fine. HERE

2009-04-01T11:35:00.002-05:00

5 Things I Was Doing 5 Years Ago:
1. Going to Austin Peay
2. Driving a Blazer
3. Jet Skiing
4. Playing soccer
5. playing paintball

5 Things I'll Do Tonight:
1. Make dinner with Erika
2. sleep on Ben's couch
3. get snowed on (more than likely, it is snowing now)
4. Watch Erika Dance
5. call my mom? she would like that

5 Things I'd Do With A Million Dollars:
1. find someplace to live instead of my car
2. Buy Erika a vehicle
3. Let my parents retire
4. Give Erika a grand wedding reception
5. save, save, save

5 Places I Have Lived:
1. Clemmons, NC
2. Provo, Utah
3. Clarksville, TN
4. Yorba Linda, CA
5. Pfafftown, NC

5 Jobs I Have Had:
1. Worked at a TV station
2. TCBY
3. Blockbuster Video
4. Car detailer
5. Boy Scout camp on the aquatics staff

5 Things I Want To Be Doing In 5 Years:
1. raising a child in the south
2. working producing sports for TV (hopefully something comes very, very, very soon though)
3. still playing soccer
4. playing guitar and piano
5. paying a mortgage on my own house

5 People I Tag:
1. Cam
2. Erika
3. Dad?
4. Cam
5. Erika

The question

2009-03-02T16:03:00.002-06:00

um...last weekend, no the weekend before that. yeah. the 20th of Feb. I went out to Utah. It was a much needed, much anticipated vacation from work. I had big plans wih Erika and we kept busy all weekend long. Friday, after Matt picked me up from the airport and a quick stop at the distibution store, I found Erika in her class building. She was very impatient for my arrival and I got to sit through her training session. We went to a ward activity at her Bishop's house and I got to meet several people of her ward. Saturday came and it was off to the mountain to go snowboarding. I had not been for 3 years or so and she had never been. We went with Cam, my brother-in-law who was in town for his birthday from Baton Rouge, his brothers Ben and Russ, and their cousin Matt. it was a crowded drive up there, thats for sure. It took Erika a while to get the hang of it, but its ok. It was fun doing something I enjoyed with her and she has never failed me to attempt an adventure with me. That evening it was her turn and she took me to the opra. luckily for me it was in english so I understood half of what was sung. When Sunday came, she was getting impatient. She knew I was going to ask, but not when and how, so I kept her stung along as long as I dared. I had a plan all along anyway. We went to church and that evening we went to ward prayer. They then get together at some member's apartment for a "munch and mingle" and get the oppurtunity to write notes to ward members and have them delievered that night. I had set up with her roommates to have each of them write the words "Will, You, Marry, Me, and ?" on the bottom of some mini rubber duckies I had found (that is a story you will have to ask Erika about) and they were delievered that night. Her roommate announced that she had a love note and put them on the coffee table. Erika thought nothing of it and continued to play on her computer and talk with me. A moment goes by and she looks around the side of her computer and looks curiously at the ducks. she grabs one of them and looks at the bottom and puts the message together. When she looks at me, I have a duck with a ring around its neck and procceed to ask her if she will marry me. She did say yes. we set a date for August 22nd.

I guess I do nothing

2009-02-10T11:11:00.001-06:00

The things highlighted in orange are things that I have done. 33. Thats it.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Bathed in a river
7. Been to the Taj Mahal
8. Walked on a glacier in Alaska
9. Caught and held a snake
10. Spoke in front of a big crowd
11. Bungee jumped
12. Had a whirlwind love affair that broke your heart
13. Found an arrowhead or fossil
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Rescued an animal
16. Ate sweet breads, glands or tripe
17. Seen Mount Rushmore in person
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hiked to base camp on Mt. Everest
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Watched an animal being born
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Learned a foreign language
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Stayed up for more than 24 hours
31. Trained a dog to do cool tricks
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Can drive a stick shift car
37. Won over $1000 in a raffle or lottery
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
42. Been serenaded
43. Visited Africa
44. Walked on a beach by moonlight
45. Broken a bone
46. Started your own business
47. Quit a job because you were totally unhappy
48. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
49. Been to the Eiffel Tower
50. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
51. Kissed in the rain passionately
52. Played in the mud
53. Gone to a drive-in
54. Been in a movie
55. Visited the Great Wall of China
56. Joined a prayer group
57. Taken a martial arts class
58. Visited Russia
59. Served at a soup kitchen
60. Gone whale watching
61. Received flowers for no reason
62. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
63. Gone sky diving
64. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
65. Bounced a check
66. Flown in a helicopter
67. Saved a favorite childhood toy
68. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
69. Eaten caviar
70. Pieced a quilt
71. Stood in Times Square
72. Toured the Everglades
73. Been fired from a job
74. Seen the changing of the guards in London
75. Broken something extremely expensive
76. Been on a speeding motorcycle
77. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
78. Published a book
79. Visited the Vatican
80. Got a tattoo
81. Been to a coffee shop in Amsterdam
82. Seen the aurora borealis in person
83. Read the entire Bible
84. Visited the White House
85. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
86. Had chickenpox
87. Saved someone’s life
88. Sat on a jury
89. Met someone famous
90. Joined a book club
91. Lost a loved one
92. Toured the UN
93. Hiked to Machu Picchu
94. Swam in the Indian Ocean
95. Conversed with someone when neither of you spoke each others language
96. Dirty danced
97. Been stung by a bee
98. Acted in a play
99. Had more than 5 surgeries
100. Threw a surprise party for someone

New Years time

2009-01-09T23:03:00.003-06:00

Ok. for some resolutions:
#1 Watch Less TV! It is a very bad habit I have that when I get home, I turn on the TV and I will sit there and watch it. There are a lot of shows I like and I really enjoy them, but that is not always the case. I will just flip through channels till the next half hour or so. It is very unproductive. I did get a weight bench for Christmas and have done well to lift while watching TV. I also have been trying to read more.

#2 Exercise more. I feel out of shape. I want to look better and be able to feel better about myself. not to mention look better for Erika. I have done well to lift or run or something everyday.

#3 Go to the Temple every Month. It has been a really long time since I have been to the temple and I want to go. I want to make that a habit. I may not make it this month due to other circumstances, but once I can, I will go. Every month.

I am open to suggestions as well, but that is what I have so far.

Christmas time

2008-12-16T16:34:00.002-06:00

So it has been a very long time since I have blogged so I figured I would. about what, well Christmas. I think I am ready. I have up my 3 foot tree with orange lights and very many presents. I have really gone overboard on gifts for my nieces and nephews. I took the three oldest to Toys 'R' Us (at separate times) to buy gifts for their cousins and siblings. I hope I can give them more than stuff, but memories of a happy time. Sometimes I feel I do not do much as an uncle.

On thanksgiving, I spent it with Erika and her family and she is coming back for Christmas so I will get to see her sometime around then. that is all I could ask for for Christmas. (but if you did get me something that is cool too) It looks like I will not have to work for that week or maybe the week after either. maybe I should take a trip. maybe Florida. who knows.

Helping her parents move

2008-11-23T21:45:00.003-06:00

Continuing the saga of my life, Saturday morning I, along with my dad, went to Mount Juliet to help Erika's parents move. I was up around 6 and out of bed about 6:30. I did not get to sleep as early as I would have liked, but I made it. I was going to make some muffins, but I was out of eggs so no muffins. I went because I wanted to help. I wanted her parents to get to know me. I was going to be cheerful and have a smile on my face as I worked. I love Erika and wanted to do anything I could to make her life easier and this seemed like a perfect way to be around her parents. I worked hard and talked with her dad and he was really nice. That made me feel a lot better. Faith hugged me and Taylor just stood there. I think she was more interested in watching her friend Mike. And Erika's mom. I failed to introduce my dad, so when she asked, I felt really stupid, but she was really nice. I thought I was as well. At least I hope she saw that. I tried. I did not want any hard feeling because I want to be around her family and her for the holidays. I think I made some progress. I think that if they get to know me, they will like me. I do realize that I do not know her parents that well, so I can not judge them.

Trip to Utah

2008-11-19T17:12:00.002-06:00

Last weekend, I was able to get off work Friday and Monday, and took a plane to Utah to see the woman I love. My flight left at 6 in the morning and Ben picked my up in Salt Lake City. I found my way to Erika's apartment and sat down to wait for her to get there. I saw her walking and then she saw me and her face lit up. We went to eat and to the grocery store. I bought her and her roommates pizza, ice cream, and M&Ms. We went to a dance ensemble she had to go to for one of her classes. Saturday, Ben's wife, Trina, let me use her car, so I went to Erika's and helped clean her bathroom for cleaning inspections. Gay! we ran some errands and tried to find the BYU/Airforce game, but it was not on TV, so we sat on the couch watching ESPN's gametracker on her computer. We also watched Get Smart and then she went with me to see Matt Spann and his family. She was a little shy, but did well meeting someone new. After Matt, we came back and made spaghetti for dinner. She went with me over to Ben's for a little bit, and then I walked her home. Sunday, I woke up early and walked over to her place. I helped her with some homework and then she had to go to church for a meeting. I stayed and talked with her roommates till time for church. After church, we made dinner with her roommates and then she had another meeting with all her roommates so I was there by myself. Midnight came to quick, so I was taken on a tour of campus at midnight. I did not get back to Ben's till late. I was sad to go, but I will see her soon. Erika will be here in a week.

Part 5 = I should get creative here

2008-11-09T20:07:00.005-06:00

Well Saturday came very early as I got a text at 6:30 telling me Erika would not be coming today and that I should call her. That woke me up, so I got up and called her. I really did not understand too much, she was half asleep as well and reception in my house is not the greatest. I told her I would call her when I got up which would be around 8. I had a soccer game in Nashville. I did not fall back asleep. I could not believe this was happening again. It seemed things were going well. I called her back on my way to Nashville, but it was hard to hear her, so I told her to text me. She did and finished breaking up with me. Again. I knew things were not easy for her at home, and she did what she thought was best. She did text me a few times that day and the following day, but I was really hurt. I did not know what to do. I think all I did when I prayed that night was cry. I could not understand how I could have done anything different to change the situation. I think I was selfish for what I wanted and when the hurt and anger faded, I knew that Erika would be going through much more emotionally than what I would be going through. I finally decided that I would not give up still. I loved this girl. I knew it and no matter what happened, I always would so why should I give up on her? I sent a text to her Sunday night. mainly because I missed her. I had talked to her constantly almost everyday and without her, the day seemed so long and so empty. The text I sent was simple: "how was church?" but it made Erika cry. she was feeling the same way I was.

We decided to be friends. I did love her and I wanted her in my life. so we continued to talk all the time. I had another soccer game on saturday so I invited Erika to come watch. She did and I do not know how much fun she had, but I was so happy that she was there. I gave her my camera to take pictures which she did. We most definitely need to work on her abilities there. When we were done, I walked her to her car and just stood there. I was doing good just being her friend, but I could not stand it. I grabbed her and gave her a big kiss. I just had to do that. now I could leave. she and I went to Opry Mills and ate. I knew she still loved me because I knew I stunk. It was hot and I was sweaty.

Her family went to Florida the next weekend, but we still talked. I do not know how much her parents knew to the extent we talked. We were friends. just friends. this was reiterated many times for my convenience. that next Wednesday, one of her good friends died tragically in a car accident. She turned to me when that happened. She was trying to be the strong one for her friend, the boyfriend of the one who died, and she did not have to be that way with me. I had been through a similar situation with Shana and she knew that. All I wanted was to comfort her and see her happy. I still can't stand to see her cry.

That Sunday she was singing in Sacrament meeting and I had promised to come watch her even before she had broken up with me. I would have gone to see her anyways. I drove my motorcycle there and sat with her family. She sang amazing. I wish I had any ability to sing at all, but I do not so I really appreciate others who can. I was blown away at this person, whom I love, and how angelical she sang. I could listen to her sing for the rest...well a long time. I went to her house after church to eat and helped make dinner. It was great. well, you know how picky an eater I am, but it really was great. We went to a fireside for YSA's and stayed after to play games. Neither of us wanted to leave, because it was getting close to when she would have to go back to BYU. it was around 11 when we got back to her house and I suited up for the ride home. I did not get far before it started to rain. not real hard at first, but it soon turned that way. I stopped under several overpasses trying to wait for a break. It took me over 2 hours to make it home, and I was completely drenched when I did make it home. I did have on some gear to keep me dry, but not nearly enough.

On Thursday, the thursday before she was leaving to go back to BYU, I went and met her and her family to go watch her little sister's softball game. that was fun. I almost felt like part of her family. Her 2 other sisters and mother were there. After the game, Erika and I went and bought Chinese and went to a park and ate. I had my laptop and showed her some of the stuff I did at work. It was great, just being with her. Well, till a cop came and told us the park was closed so I took her home. When we got there, I came inside, but felt really uncomfortable. I knew her mom was not fond of me and I think she could feel how much I really did care about her daughter and how much Erika cared for me. But I just had this weird feeling so I quickly left. Erika sent me a text and called me. I did not answer. She was wondering if I was ok and I could tell the concern in her voice. I did not respond till I got home. I needed some time to reflect. I know we were not together, but we pretty much acted like it. I kept thinking how much I was coming between Erika and her mom and I hated it. I did not want her mom to think any less of Erika. I think so much of her, that I did not want to sever her family. I could not do that. She could get over me, but she could not replace her mother. I thought real hard about ending thing so she would not have to choose between her mother and I. I knew I loved her and that she had come into my life because of Heavenly Father. I felt so truly blessed to be lucky enough that someone so amazing would love me. I feel that way everyday, and everyday, Erika proves to be more amazing. By the time I got home, I knew I did not want to lose this girl. we had gone through so much and prevailed and I felt Heavenly Father had given an affirmation in the decision I made. I did not want to do the opposite. I called her back and told her everything was good.

I had to work a football game the next day, but it went fairly quickly and Erika said she was out bowling so I should come see her. I could get there by 12:30. So I did. She was leaving the next day and I did not know when I would get to see her again. Christmas was the next time I knew she would be here, but she probably would have been in Florida with her family. So I made good time and found her. I spent the next hour just holding the woman I love.

Now she is in Utah, going to BYU. I still talk to her everyday. Every morning she would call me on her way to class, and every night she would call me on her way home. We were still friends, but we acted like a couple. Eventually we realized that neither of us wanted to be with anyone else. I had no desire to go out with anyone else. not when I knew who I loved and whom Heavenly Father had put in my life. So we finally called it what it was and I am more in love with this choice handmaiden.

Part 4

2008-11-08T14:37:00.004-06:00

What a cliff hanger. I thought I might get linched for that ending. ok, lets get right to it:

I got in my car and was frustrated. I did not want this to happen again, but alas it did. I really cared for this beautiful girl. I just sat in my car listening to the Braves. Something came over me that I could not leave. I reached for my phone and texted Erika telling her not to cry. she responded that it was too late for that and I asked where she was. I came and found her and wanted to do something. I wanted Erika to be happy. I took her hand and told her to come with me, dragging her to a piano and made her play. She loves music and that helped. I do not really know why I did not leave, but I am glad I did not. Heavenly Father truly knows us, and blesses us, even if we do not realize it. Things turned out better that. night. we danced and went and found Chinese. I realized that I need to drive instead of Erika, and things felt right. I did not want to let go of her. but the night ended and she had to go home. I went with some of the other people at the dance to Athen's to eat. the restaurant, not the city. Right before my phone died, Erika sent me a text and told me for the first time that she loved me. I knew after that night, I did too, and I wanted her in my life. I could not bring myself to leave her, and things turned out for the better.

The next night, some of the singles went to see the new Batman movie and Erika informed me she would be there, so I drove down there to meet her. Her parents would not let her walk by herself so I had to escort her to the theater and to her car. Of course I did not mind. I thoroughly enjoyed being next to her.

On Sunday, they was a fireside scheduled, so I went again to Nashville so that I could be with Erika. I met her at her house and her mother was not happy. She made that very clear but I will not say much about that. I really wish she would give me a chance, but till then, I will continue to be the best person I can. We had to wait for one of Erika's friends, then we all left in Erika's car since one of my headlights was out. About halfway there, I got a text from Josh saying it was pushed back to the next week. well... we could not go back to Erika's unless she wanted to say goodbye to me so we went to Opry Mills and just walked around till we went to Josh's and watched Tommy Boy. It was great just sitting on a couch with Erika. its all I could ask for.

Wednesday, I once more made the trip to Nashville and went to Institute. It was also Tim Allman's birthday so we went to Athen's afterward and Erika ordered like I do. She said she was really hungry and we got the same thing, but she did not finish hers, I had to do that. But before that, we were the first ones there and when we got out of the car, I held her close and went in to kiss her, pulling back at the last moment. I could see the frustration on her face, but was having too much fun so I did the same thing and she was getting even more upset. I did it one more time thinking that she would actually kiss me. I wanted her to take some initiative, but she would not. I was getting kinda scared by the look on her face so I went ahead and kissed her. After dinner, we went downtown to the riverfront and just talked and held each other. Things seemed so perfect and everything in my past seemed forgotten. All I could see was a future with the most wonderful person I could ever imagine.

I saw her twice more the following week. Monday, we went to see the Emma Smith Story in Nashville and I thought I would surprise her. I brought her a book of piano music to some popular music. Her family was at the movie as well, so that made things awkward, but she sat by me and I still enjoyed it. I could see she loved the present, but her mom was less then thrilled.

We made plans for another date on Saturday to go boating, play monopoly, and watch a movie. I am sure dinner was included in there somewhere. It seemed perfect. All I wanted was to be with Erika. I loved this young woman.

Part 3

2008-11-07T14:35:00.003-06:00

Some people have said I am putting too much detail into this, so I may not put so much into it....

Part 3, oh yeah, the date. I was dog sitting for the Ross's and Erika was going to come down and we were going to swim and throw a softball. Hey, she wanted to and I like sports so it was something we would both enjoy. I was going to make her dinner and we were going to watch a movie. It was just a day where we could spend together. Things did not go as planned for Erika, as she had a little trouble obtaining a vehicle and was about 2 hours late getting here. We did go swimming and threw a softball. her pants got wet because it had rained earlier, so I gave her my shorts to wear. We went back to my house when it started to get dark, and I started to get hungry. I ended up making spaghetti without hamburger and we watched Casablanca. I did not have my stove hooked up yet, so I had to make it upstairs and I would not let her come up there with me. that made me sad, but she and I both were really hungry by the time dinner was ready. She had to be home by midnight, so our night came to an end all too soon. It was great, I loved it, and realized that I really enjoyed her company. I asked her if she would be my girlfriend, and she said yes.

On Monday, her family was coming to Clarksville to pick up a piano they had found of Craigslist. I offered to take her and her mom to dinner, but realized her other three sisters would be in tow, so we all agreed to eat together. They got lost and I gave them directions (not the first time I had done so for Erika). They were going to see a missionary and deliever some cookies to him for his mother and then pick up the piano and then we would eat. well, it just kept getting later and later and finally they said they would be leaving soon and I left to meet them at Fazolli's. I got a call from them shortly after that they had a flat tire, so I went to rescue them. By the time they were fixed, it was late so we went to Johnny's Big Burger. Erika rode with me and her family followed. I did not get to kiss her good night or even really hug her because it was a little awkward with her mom. A little awkward, but I felt that I had done everything I could to be the person my parents raised me to be.

That Friday was the monthly YSA dance and Erika and I made plans to go eat Chinese before hand and try to go see the new Batman movie which was coming out that night. However, that day I got a text from Erika. She was breaking up with me. not from any fault of my own, but because her parents did not think I was right for her. That made things very difficult at home for her. I was not going to go since my reason for going had just abandoned me. I was pretty distraught over that. I thought things were finally looking up for me. I was getting my life together and I had met a wonderful woman who cared for me. I went about half the day fading into the robot that made my existance easier. However, something happened. I do not know what, but I decided I was not going to turn back into my old self. I wanted a new and better life. I wanted to be happy and this was not going to be the end of the world. I had been through this before and it was not the worst thing. Don't get me wrong, it totally sucked, but I had to have faith that Heavenly Father would bless me for doing what I needed to have done a very long time ago. Late that afternoon, I got a text from Erika asking if I would meet her there so we could talk. I agreed and showed up on time for the dance, which, by Erika, was an hour late. She proceeded to tell me about everything that had gone on with her family and what she was having to deal with. She wants to make her parents happy, as would any decent child, and have them approve of her. They did not of me, and she was fixing that. I asked if there was anything I could do which their was not, so I had nothing more keeping me there. I told her goodbye and I walked out to my car.

correction

2008-11-06T15:06:00.002-06:00

It has been brought to my attention I may have insinuated that Erika saw the hotdog squirt onto the curtain and did nothing about it. This is wrong. She had no idea that it had done so and was oblivious to the hilarity that would follow upon the discovery. It was not done purposefully.

Part 2

2008-11-06T11:05:00.002-06:00

back by very popular demand is part 2 to the story. hmmm.... I guess I should have looked to see where I left off. Hold on just a second. I tried uploading a video, but it was taking way too long.

ok. so I guess I can go into more detail. Erika came up Saturday to go waterskiing and we all met at Tyler's place. (it was easier to instruct Erika than directions to my house) I was on my bike and we were headed to my parents to go out so I offered Erika a ride and low and behold, she got on with me. It is always nice to use that as an excuse for them to put their arms around me. It was her first time on a bike, so she was a little nervous. we went to my parents house and went waterskiing. that was fun. well, the girls went tubing. I did get on the tube with Erika and my dad threw us off. I tried to teach them to ski and Erika was the only one to try the wake board. I hade to get in the water and help her with the binding, but I did not mind. I liked being close to her. She was never successful, but that just means she has to try again. Afterwards, we went to my parents and grilled out. We had these gormet hotdogs with habenjero cheese in them. Erika enjoys spicy food, so she decided to give them a try. they were really good, but my mom comes over and notices something on the curtain. I just figured it was my 2 year old nephew but upon closer inspection by my mom, it was still wet. Yep, when Erika bit into it, it had splattered everywhere. she had noticed it on her arm, but quickly licked it off, hopping no one would notice. My mom figured it out and will never forget her first impression. Erika had to go, so I took her back to her dad's car on my bike and put my hand over hers which were wrapped around me. I think she enjoyed it, I know I did. when she went to her car I gave her a hug and contemplated kissing her. it was not our first date so I figured it would be ok. I was scared though, and still not sure if she felt the same way. I decided to go for and gave her a little peck. she promptly turned, got in her car, and left.

I was not sure how to take that, but I figured it would not hurt to keep pursuing.

She and I texted the following day. Thank goodness for free Verizon to Verizon! I told her to go to FHE in nashville and I would drive there to see here. I got off work late that Monday, and my dad was remodeling my kitchen and I helped him, so I told her I was not going to be able to go afterall. Turns out, not too many people were there so they decided to go to a movie and it was showing late enough that I could get up there. That was Erika's doing as they wanted to see another movie, but she knew I needed time to get there. We went to see Wall-E and I grabbed her hand as we walked theater and I put my arm around her as we watched. After the movie, I kissed her goodbye. A real kiss. :-)

She was babysitting that weekend, the 4th of July, so I went down to my brother-in-law's farm and shot fireworks and played with my niece. towards the end of the night, I ended up throwing my phone in a cup of water. It did not survive. I was going to nashville the next day to play soccer and Erika was going to come too, but I could not call her to tell her where, so I had to borrow my mom's. She came and played for a little while, but then had to get to work delievering phone books.I did get a new phone that day so I was able to text her more. I went to FHE again that monday in Nashville and we played whiffle ball in the gym. I was hungry, so we left and walked around green hills where I held her hand and her some more. I loved being around her and we set up a date for the coming Saturday and spend the whole week planning stuff to do. It was going to be fun.....

To be continued

nablpomo?

2008-11-04T20:46:00.004-06:00

Alright, call me a conformist. I will do it too. blog, blog, blog. thats all I do, right? oh well. here goes. since my mom posted how she and my dad met, I will post the beginnings of Erika and I. First we set the mood; I was trying to get my life back in order and be happy. I used to be happy, I missed it. So I went and talked with the bishop about what I needed to do and started doing things that I knew I needed to do. I had to pretty much build back a foundation for daily routine. I did and that weekend I went with the YSA's from Nashville white water rafting. I had gone the year prior and it was a lot of fun. Yeah, me and the water, who would have thought that. Well, as we waited for everyone to show up, there was this pretty blonde that I had not seen before. Ok, honestly it was the orange bookbag that first drew my attention but she was still very pretty. I tried not to be too creepy but I really wanted to get to know her. I found out she was new to the area and her name was Erika. I put some distance between us, you know, still trying not to creep her out, and threw a football with some of the other guys there. I rode with Josh and one other person for the 4 hour ride and noticed that her car was much more full so I offered for anyone to come ride with us hoping that she would take that opportunity. Alas she stayed where she was. When we got down there, I tried getting in the same raft as she, but I brought my dry bag and gathered everyone's belongs that they did not want to get wet or lost. I even had some of the guides' stuff in there. by that time, all the rafts but one were full, so I had no choice. on the bus ride back, though, I did sit by her and tried to get her to open up. I did my share of talking but she was really she and not noticing that I was trying to hit on this beautiful girl that had come into my life on what I could only attribute to my dedication to getting my life back together. after the trip there was a cookout at a nearby park and I continued to talk to her and played a lot with my phone. When I helped clean-up, I let her hold it trying to get her to be presumptious and put her number, but she was still not getting the hint so I asked her if she wanted to go water skiing and she said yes and I was able to get her number. I hate asking for peoples number.

That wednesday I actually went on a date with another girl I had met recently. She was LDS too and lived in nashville. on the way home Erika texted my to tell me happy birthday. we had become facebook friends by that point. I was on my motorcycle so I could not text back but that really meant a lot to me. I kept that text till I threw my phone in a cup of water.

Thursday, I asked if she wanted to come down for Tyler's father's birthday party the next day. she was already coming down Saturday to go water skiing with us so she could just stay the night. Paige and Leslie were doing the same thing so I figured that would be way easier than driving to Mount Juliet and back two days in a row. She did come and we had fun playing games. We played Wii and Scene it. Tyler and I won as usual. even with the new help. She was not able to spend the night, she had borrowed her dad's car and unbeknownst to me, was not supposed to see me again because I am an old man. she was allowed to come Saturday to ski and we had a lot of fun. I do have to put up this picture:

Yes this is Erika. and we had fun. I think this is a good stopping point. stay tuned for part 2

A replacement for the escort

2008-10-26T21:20:00.003-05:00

so last Saturday, I was all set to go look at this Jeep Grand Cherokee. it was cheap because it needed some work. by chance we looked on Craigslist and found another one that looked better for not much more. my parents drove me to Mount Juliet, which is not real close, and we looked at it. I liked it. I wanted something bigger, more comfortable, and something with 4 wheel drive just in case. so we bought it, well my dad pulled out the cash for the transaction. I got to drive it to my soccer game and have been driving it all week. even over the motorcycle. it needed some cleaning, but that is not a problem with me or my dad. we have the knowledge to make it look good. I just wanted something with a reliable engine and this has one. It is hunter green and has a CD player. that is a big plus. I have put some better speakers in the rear. nothing big, just better than factory and really like it. Thanks pop. we have already sold the escort. and that was about half of what we paid for this.

2008-10-14T10:12:00.002-05:00

8 tv shows I love to watch:
1. The Simpson
2. Psych
3. Chuck
4. Smallville
5. Heroes
6. Reaper
7. Football
8. and more football

8 things that happened today:
well it is still early so...
1. Woke up
2. Went back to sleep
3. Woke up again
4. Ate Cereal
5. Texted Erika
6. Rode my motorcycle to work
7. Talked with Erika
8. 50 push-ups

8 things I am looking forward to:
1. texting Erika after she is done with her classes
2. Talking with Erika after she gets off work
3. Lunch
4. Riding my motorcycle home
5. Playing with Cassidy
6. Thanksgiving, well more exactly the day after
7. Eating Aligator
8. June of next year

8 Things I cannot live without:

1. Cell phone
2. Laptop
3. My parents
4. Food
5. My pocket knife
6. Soccer
7. My scriptures
8. Erika

8 Favorite CDs:

1: Better than Ezra - Before the Robots
2. Billy Joel - Greatest Hits
3. SR-71 - Tomorrow
4. Nirvana - unplugged in New York
5. Boys Like Girls - Boys Like Girls
6. Eve 6 - Horrorscope
7. Our Lady Peace - Gravity
8. Buddy Holly - Greatest Hits

About me A to Z

2008-10-13T19:49:00.002-05:00

A. Attached or Single? Single, but with strings attached

B. Best Friend? I do not know
C. Cake or Pie? let me taste them and see which one I like better. oh, and I need big portions. matter of fact, just leave the whole thing with me
D. Day of choice? Saturday, football anyone?
E. Essential Item? motorcycle or my knife
F. Favorite Color? Orange.
G. Gummy Bears or Worms? why would you want a worm? unless you are going fishing, they are not useful and not tasty at all
H. Hometown? Clarksville, TN
I. Indulgence? DVDs. I have over 900
J. January or July? either, I can ski in July, and snowboard in January
K. Kids? 0
L. Life is Not Complete Without? water
M. Marriage Date? pending
N. Number of Brothers and Sisters? 3 sisters and a brother-in-law
O. Oranges or Apples? Apples
P. Phobias? being alone and failure
Q. Favorite Quotes? "I'm addicted to rage: I can't live without my rageahol"
R. Reasons to smile? Erika, Cassidy, and food
S. Season of choice? Summer. no school and soccer, a motorcycle, and the river. what more could you want
T. Tags? Erika and Ben
U. Unknown Fact about me? If I tell you then it is no longer unknown
V. Vegetable? Red Bell Peppers. they are the best
W. Worst Habit? apathy or laziness
X. Xray or Ultrasound? Since I have nothing to ultrasound I would say X-ray. they are much better than an MRI. those things are loud.
Y. Your Favorite Food? anything free
Z. Zodiac Sign? Cancer

Where does the time go

2008-08-30T09:09:00.006-05:00

So I have kept busy. Very busy. I started dating a girl and things have been more good than bad. Here are some pictures

This is at Opry Mills where we went glow golfing.

From Dave and Buster's which is better than I thought it would be. The food was great and 10 dollars worth of games was quite a bit.

I also have been plaing in a church soccer league. we are the only english speaking team. our name is Gringo Hills. I missed last week due to work, but the previous two weeks I had 3 goals and 3 assists

New Phone

2008-07-13T13:02:00.002-05:00

So it has been a busy, busy week. Last Friday I celebrated our countries Independence day with family. I was at my brother-in-law's parents house and we had a big cookout and when it got dark, we set off fireworks. My niece Cassidy enjoyed playing in the river so I watched her. It was fun playing with her. Anyways...Cam and I were lighting the fireworks and when I would kneel down, I kept hitting buttons on my phone, so I saw a chair. I thought " I'll put it in the cup holder here and then I won't lose it or it get stepped on or anything." little did I know, because it was dark and I was distracted, that there was a clear plastic cup of water in the cup holder. That was exactly where I had put my phone. One of Cam's cousins found it and it no longer worked. It was not reborn again after its baptizm. so I had to go get a new phone. Luckily, my new every two credit kicked in on the 1st so that helped out. I have an EnV2. I was able to salvage my micro SD card so my pictures and videos were saved. however all my numbers are gone. so if you would like me to have your number you will have to give it to me. My number is still the same 931-801-6418

Best Week Ever

2008-06-27T10:49:00.005-05:00

So I'm sure so of you have read the previouse two blogs. If not, I will allow you to do so now......... OK. I have had the best week ever. Its been a long time since I've been really happy, but I've done something my mom has been wanted me to do for a long time, but I wasn't ready. Well the time has come to act and I've already seen the rewards of it. I went white water rafting That is always fun. Cam - if you lived here you could come too. If you lived upstairs, everything would be great. Except Lauren might kill us for leaving the kids with her all the time. Things would be cleaner and there is a yard there too. I digress, Sunday, I went to church in Nashville and they don't start till 1 so I got to sleep in. On the rafting trip I met a really nice young lady, and she was going to be going to a fireside they were having, so I stayed for that. Me. Going to a fireside. While there, I gave my seat to another young lady and ended up sitting behind someone else who seemed really nice. Now don't get the wrong impression. It was just nice to know there are people like me around. Monday - I got a raise. the news was a disaster and very stressfull, but I got it done. Tuesday was my birthday, and through years of experience they usually stick. When I turned 20, I tore up my knee. when I was 7 or 8 I went to a Spirits game and someone spilled beer on me. but this was a good birthday. At work, they had a cake and sang. My parents took me to dinner and they sang. Not my parents, but the employees. I tried to run away, but was trapped. Wednesday-I was able to get out of doing the MWR shoot. We had the news finished by 5. I think thats a record. I would have liked to have left earlier because I was going to Nashville to go on a date with one of the girls I met in Nashville. The latter of the two. She is 29 and has her own place. I took her out to eat on my motorcyle. We ate at this little place called US Border Cantina. She had 2 tacos which cost 3 dollars. that was inexpensive. I order like I always do - "suprise me!" We went back to her place which was really nice and watched a movie. I had a good time. I'd go out with her again. So tonight the first girl I met is coming to Clarksville and going to a birthday party for Tyler's dad. Tomorrow she is coming back to Clarksville to go water skiing with me and my dad and Paige. I do have to go see the bishop Sunday morning at 7:15 so thats not too cool, but it seems to be worth it.

Birthday

2008-06-24T11:02:00.003-05:00

So for those who do not know, today is my birthday. Of course, those people reading this already know who I am so I guess I don't really need to tell anyone. Anyways, today I am 27. I feel old. I didn't think this is where I would be 10 years ago, but alas it matters not. I do not have any plans if anyone would like to take me to dinner or what not. And I do accept cash and checks. Yes that is me a little over ten years ago.

White Water Rafting

2008-06-23T10:41:00.003-05:00

Again, I spent the weekend in Nashville (thanks Josh) but I came a little more prepared this time. They cancelled the Regional Dance for Friday but I went up there anyways. I went and watched a movie with Josh, Angela, and her sister. I wont mention what movie because I did not pick it, nor did I really care to see it. Anyways, I was in Nashville because early Saturday morning, we were going white water rafting. I went last year and it was a lot of fun. I finally got the pictures from last year so I'll put on up. I'm the one in the back with my arm up. everyone else looks like they are drowning. Ha! yeah we see you Diane. So back to this year. It was really good again. I didn't fall out. Someone in my boat did and lost a paddle. I met more really cool people. Our guide even fell in the water. He was new, but did a good job. I'd go again. So I stayed Sunday and went to church there too. There are so many more people there that are my age so I really like it. It was a really good service as well. I even stayed and went to a fireside that night. That wasn't part of the original plan, but things change. I had a lot of fun. It makes me want to move closer to Nashville. But things are comfertable here. I just got a raise at work, which I'm a huge fish in a little pond. I don't plan on being here my entire life, but it is great experience.

CMAs

2008-06-11T14:47:00.002-05:00

Saturday, I had the chance to do something few people do. I went to the CMA festival in downtown Nashville. Through my work, I got a press pass (for free) that allowed me to get up close to the artist. Of course, I really didn't know who anyone was, but I was there with Scott and he did. I was there to take pictures. I'll try to put some pictures up so you guys can see them