A Hero Appears (Continued) . . . Thanks Er for making my night!

“You are right Miss Weston,” he said looking up at her, his hair dripping water into his eyes. “It is deeper than I anticipated. Is the gardener shed near? Perhaps I can retrieve a latter or something else to aid us in your release.” He wiped at his face with the back of his hands, his clothes were now as wet as Lydia’s and quickly becoming as dirty. He adjusted his footing and looked around them, calculating something with his eyes. He was now only a few feet from Lydia and she could clearly see the blueness of his eyes. His gaze caught her off guard when he looked up at her, suddenly seeming to come to some conclusion over what he had been thinking. Lydia felt a deep red rush to her face as he asked her, “Can you move your legs at all? I believe that if you can get a few steps closer to me I am sure that I can pull you out.”
In response to his inquiry Lydia pulled at her right foot, feeling the mud grasp tightly at her shoes and suck her foot back down. Her shoes seemed to be constraining her now more than the mud; they felt tight against her skin causing her feet to prickle.
“My shoes seem to be holding me captive more than the mud; perhaps if I untie them and free my legs I will be able to move forward.” She bent over and ran her arms down her legs into the mud and felt around, trying to find her laces. She was able to pull at them, loosening the laces as she stuck her fingers into the tops of her shoes. She tried to free her right foot. She could feel it give and begin to slide. The feel of cold water and mud sliding into the void left as she pulled caused her stomach to spin slightly. She suddenly hoped that water and dirt were all that was oozing in. Mr. Ashton watched her progress, seeming to turn slightly as her foot appeared from its dark captivity.
“Okay now place your foot as far forward as you can while still being able to reach your left foot.” He said.
She slipped her right foot back into the mud as far forward as she could reach while keeping one hand close to her left leg. It caught her a bit off guard how much colder it felt now that her stocking was the only barrier between her skin and the mud. Turning her full attention back to her left leg Lydia managed to again untie her shoe and began to pull at her leg, this time she could hear the suction against her foot as she lifted her leg. The wind had apparently decided to cooperate and quiet down, offering a moment’s peace as she freed her legs of their leather constraints and settled them closer to the shore, closer to Mr. Ashton too she thought, fighting off another rush of blood to her cheeks.
Shyly she looked up, pleased with her progress and ready for further instruction from her brave rescuer.
“Good, good,” he said, his hair now slicked back out of his face, allowing her to briefly analyze his strong jaw and cheekbones and catch the piercing blue of his eyes again.
“Now see how far you can reach with your arms.” He encouraged.
She reached out only now remembering the mud that went all the way up to her elbows, creating a sudden surge of self-consciousness. It didn’t seem to faze him at all, he reached out grabbing at her fingers, and nearly falling forwards himself in his efforts.
“I am afraid to step out any deeper than I already am, is there any way you can take another step or two, the closer we get the more likely our success at your release and the faster we can get you dried off and warming in front of a fire. ” He said this with his brow creased slightly in concern, making Lydia wish to leap into his arms and making her feel as though she could drag him alone from the mud and onto the waiting shore. She felt her face burn with the blush that came now.
“I’ll try,” was all that she managed to give voice to as she lifted her soiled dress lightly with her muddy hands, realizing fully now how horrible she must look, in return causing another blush to overcome her face. She bent her head as if in concentration hoping that he had not seen her burning cheeks. She pulled and her leg began to give easier now than when she had had her boots on. After only a minute she was able to lift her right leg free and stepped forward adjusting her foot to avoid the sharp rocks hidden below and finally feeling it stay firmly in place. Her left leg came easier than the right, settling down with the mud only coming up mid calf. His arms were now stretched forward, awaiting hers.
“One more step Miss Weston and I’ll have you,” he said causing a sudden charge in the air between them and another roll of red to overtake her face. She was now hoping that her face had simply remained red from the first blush to the latest as she looked down and pulled her right leg out. “I will never come near this lake again” she thought as she settled her right leg in again and pulled at the left. His fingers were now circling around her wrists pulling them forward. She felt her body lift and her legs slide once again to freedom as he pulled her towards him, away from the murky waters and into his warm embrace.
“I think it best with your permission if I carry you the rest of the way” he said, already scooping one arm under her knees and the other around her waist in one smooth motion, making her air born before she could reply. In response to his fast movements she swung her arms around his neck, causing his until now only damp shirt to become smeared with mud. She gasped at both the shock of being lifted up so easily and at the brown smears that now adorned his shirt, neck and even his face.
Blushing harder than before Lydia’s lips trembled as she said, “Oh Mr. Ashton, I am so sorry, now your shirt too is ruined. I will get you another I promise.”
He laughed lightly as he looked at her muddy arms gripping his neck. “No matter Miss Lydia, you are free of your watery prison and the rain is still coming, so let us proceed away.”
He turned his body towards shore, and stepped forward careful but firm in his movements. For Lydia it felt as though they had not moved at all. She looked at his face as he moved; his brow was furrowed again slightly in concentration but his eyes sparkled deep blue with action, making her instantly crimson again. The close contact to him, being carried in his arms, and being swept out of the mud so easily sent chills down her arms as they crossed over onto the grass at last. He seemed to hold her tighter in response, “You are freezing, Miss Weston. We must get you indoors.”
She thought that he would set her down once they had reached the grass, but he continued on walking towards the gardens edge. She felt as though she should say something but her throat suddenly felt dry, as though if she opened her mouth she would only croak. In relief it was he that spoke first.
“Now Miss Weston may I ask what caused you to be placed in such an . . . unexpected position?” The corners of his mouth turned up slightly as he spoke.
Lydia paused briefly before responding, wanting to be certain that her voice would come. Trying to sound as composed as possible Lydia replied. “Yes Mr. Ashton you, my rescuer are certainly entitled to an explanation, but I am sorry that it is rather dull and embarrassing.” She paused, taking a breath and feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her accompanied by a slight nausea, realizing how foolish her e explanation sounded.
“I decided to sketch on the island this morning since the sun was out and I completely lost track of time. I guess I didn’t notice that a storm had come in until it was too late and in my hurry to return to shore I pushed out on my boat not realizing that the oars were not secure until it was too late and I was stranded from either shore.” Pausing to brush her hair back from her face she continued as he looked down at her smiling slightly in encouragement. “The oars slipped out and in my attempt to retrieve them I am afraid that my boat capsized causing me to swim to shore and in turn leaving me stuck in the mud.”
He stopped walking and looked down at her. “Were you their long?” he asked, a hint of surprise in his voice, causing her to catch her breath once again as she caught the glint of blue in his eyes.
Her response came out as a stammer “I, I don’t believe too long, no longer than a quarter hour, perhaps a little longer.” She sniffed, squeezing his neck slightly as she suddenly realized how truly cold her mud caked arms and legs were.
Her sniffle seemed to motivate his feet to move once again and faster in their journey across the lawn and through the garden. They crossed the drive way within five minutes of leaving the lake shore. Now Lydia could see the housekeeper Mrs. Swenson and Butler Mr. Kent hurrying towards them through the mist.
“Miss Lydia,” Mrs. Swenson exclaimed. “Miss Lydia what has happened? Are you all right child?” She rushed over looking Lydia up and down from head to toe as best she could in Mr. Ashton’s hurried pace.
“I am afraid that she had a small mishap with her boat and fell into the lake.”Mr. Ashton said, continuing onto the stairs leading up the back terrace of Westwood. “She is in need of a warm fire and change of clothes, I am afraid that a cold may have already set in.”Following along Mrs. Swenson seemed to only now register that Lydia was being carried up the stairs by a barefooted man who looked as equally awkward as Lydia in his muddy and wet apparel. The look on her face told Lydia that misunderstanding would shortly lead to much trouble.
“Mrs. Swenson,” Lydia interrupted before the words perched on Mrs. Swenson’s lips could come out. “Mr. Ashton saved me from my horrible situation of falling into the lake and becoming stuck in the mud for two quarter hours,” which elaboration caused Mr. Ashton to smile slightly, “I am most vehemently in his debt! Could you please see that he has a change of clothes and warm fire as well and something warm to drink?” Lydia’s plea caused Mrs. Swenson to pause and close her mouth. “I am most indebted to him!” She continued.
Regaining her composure Mrs. Swenson swished her skirts about her and hurried onward while calling “Of course Miss Lydia,” turning her attention now to Mr. Kent. “Mr. Kent please see to it that fires are prepared and that Mr. Ashton is looked after, I am going to see to Miss Lydia.”
Mr. Kent, a few steps ahead of the rest of them, opened the door and led the group down the hall to the room where the Weston family breakfasted each morning. A fire was already blazing in the hearth and Lydia could feel its warmth drift over her as they crossed the threshold sending another chill up her spine.
“Over there Mr. Ashton, by the fire.” Mrs. Swenson indicated, a warm blanket already in hand. She placed it over the chez-lounge in front of the fire before Mr. Ashton set her down. The blanket was then tucked around Lydia as Mrs. Swenson called out instructions to various servants that appeared in the doorway.
“Eliza, go with Anne and prepare a bath for Miss Lydia, and a change of clothing.” Turning her attention to new arrivals she extended directions to all who would appear. “Mr. Andrews please do the same for Mr. Ashton, I am sure that Mr. Weston would be willing to extend the curtsy to Mr. Ashton of opening his wardrobe to him, especially after what he has done.”
The walls in the room seemed to be alive with attention, awaiting their own instructions as Mrs. Swenson continued directing orders. It was only when Lydia stretched her feet towards the warmth of the fire that Lydia realized that Mr. Ashton was kneeling besides her watching her face. The rush of warmth to her cheeks caused her to look down from his piercing gaze. She heard his throat clear and watched his legs stand and turn to go.
“Mr. Ashton” she called leaning forward as though to stop him. He turned back to her, his hair once again brushing against his forehead as it furrowed ever so slightly in attention. “Please do not go without allowing me to thank you for the great service that you have rendered me today.” Un-wrapping one arm from the folds of the blanket encircling her frame she held out her hand to him. A smile broke out on his face touching the corners of his eyes and made them twinkle a sparkling blue as he stepped toward her.
“You are most welcome Miss Lydia” he said extending his hand. “I only hope to see you again in . . . less complicated circumstances.” Smiling once more as he gently squeezed her hand and bowed. Then without further adieu he nodded and left the room.

A Hero Appears (Lydia)

Okay call me crazy but I am on a major writing kick! I have a pile of papers filled with ideas and characters for different stories . . . here is a random snippet from my big project . . . my tribute to the Jane Austen era I guess . . . Just know that it is fun for me to write and I at least know that my sisters will get a kick out of this story . . . everytime I scan it I add and change things like crazy so it is definately a work in progress! (Tell me what you think)

Lydia leaned over the rim of the boat trying to reach the oar drifting lazily out of her reach. She could feel it begin to tip dangerously to the side as she willed her fingers to lengthen their reach in hopes of retrieving the escapee. The water felt cold on her fingers as she pawed at it while trying to reach the oar with her finger tips. Her touch sent ripples across its glassy surface that was beginning to plop softly with the first drops of rain. The oar was floating just out of her reach, taunting her with the grim aspect of spending the afternoon stranded alone on the murky waters that drew it further from her and warned of the impending storm that had crept in throughout the day.
Lydia tucked her loose curls behind her ears and leaned over the boats edge further in one last attempt at freedom from her watery keeper. The water’s edge was close to the boats rim and she could feel its coldness on her hands and its closeness to her outreaching arms. Leaning further still she was able to barely touch the handle of the oar before being suddenly greeted with a great splash into the murky cold waters below. Her chest tightened as the shock of the cold water sent her arms and legs into motion, fighting in an effort to find air and escape her unexpected surroundings. The murky wetness that seemed so happy to engulf her made her dress tangle about her legs while fighting her attempts to surface. She kicked hard and felt the water swirl around her as her fingers broke through the water’s surface and knocked against the escaped oar. She grasped the oar to her chest and gasped for air too soon in her excitement and felt the cold shock of water slide down her throat. Lydia coughed while reaching for the boat that was now floating upside down in the water. She continued to kick against the strains of the cold water on her arms and legs as she tried to turn it over but it was simply too big and heavy for her. She felt the sprinkle of soft rain falling onto her face as she looked around. The shore was only about twenty feet away now and she tried to hold onto the boat while floating to shore but it was unyielding to her attempt and hard to hold onto and push in the cold water. She finally relented and swam towards the shore happily feeling the bottom of the lake within ten feet of its edge.
Splashing towards the shoreline she could feel the pull of the muddy bottom below her feet as she drew closer. It was getting hard for Lydia to move due to the cold water and the muddy slope keeping her from the green grass only yards away. Each step that she took became a challenge as she fought against the muck that sucked her feet into the ground and held tightly to her shoes and legs as she neared the shore. The laces on her shoes felt as though they would burst as she pulled at her feet while trying to free herself of the dark mass that clung to her and sapped the little strength that remained in her body. She seemed to sink deeper and firmer into the mud with every attempt that she made to push her body forward. The water level was low yet the mud was deep, cold and unyielding to her demands of movement. The sound of it sucking her down as she struggled was all that she heard. After ten minutes her legs ached from fighting against the confining goo that surrounded her. Never before had Lydia ever been in such a predicament. Of all the days to be stuck knee deep in mud and soaking wet from her fall in the lake, her last day of freedom before Westwood was ran over with spring and summer company. She would never hear the end of it if her sister knew what had happened. Falling in the lake and covered in mud, and whatever else that had managed to cling to her from her watery surroundings.
Taking a deep breath while rubbing her arms, Lydia looked around her through the misty fall of the early spring rain. She shuddered against the chill she suddenly felt as the distance from the garden and her home sank in . . . no one would hear her from here. She was definitely alone in her muddy battle to shore. She could feel her legs beginning to cramp as they yielded to the pull below and were held in awkward positions. “I have to get myself out of this mess” she thought.
Where she stood the water was only a few inches deep, misleading viewers to the depths of dank mud lying below its surface. Most of the water around her had cleared up during her pause, filling up the hollow footprints left behind her with dark and cloudy swirls. She looked at her the muddy surrounding hoping to see a stick or stone, something that might serve a purpose in setting her free. Perhaps she could pull herself out with her arms and crawl towards the shore. Lydia leaned over and felt the cold stickiness of the dark mud and grasped at it while trying to move her legs, her butter yellow dress was now covered in the heavy brown sludge and clung to her frame even tighter. She heard a sucking sound as her right leg lifted a few inches until she could pull no more and it gave in to the ever tighter grip of the mud. It was no use; the top of the mud was too soft to pull her forward and she didn’t want to get her arms stuck too.
Lydia swished her hands back and forth along the top of the water to rinse of her hands the best that she could as she tried to think of a way out. She folded her arms as the cold wetness sent shivers up and down her body. Looking towards the gardens to the southeast of her she could make out a dark shape that seemed to be moving. Squinting against the misty rain she could see that it appeared to be getting closer. Lydia could now make out the features of a tall man walking toward her. She lifted her arms and yelled “Help, help me please!” His pace suddenly increased with her call and she could now hear the hurried footsteps of the approaching figure as they drew nearer on the wet grass. Squinting even harder against the rain Lydia could now see that it was someone with dark hair and an overcoat of deep green. Recognition of the gentleman suddenly dawned on her as she heard his voice call out her name “Miss Lydia.” It was Morgan Ashton.
A deep crimson sprung to her cheeks and Lydia tried to stand up straight in an attempt to look less foolish while pulling her hair out of her face. He was almost to the shore line and Lydia could see the look of shock spread across his face as he approached her.
“Miss Weston, what happened? Are you alright? You will catch your death out here.” He said as he began to step onto the slippery wet bank of the shore, carefully treading on the sprouting tufts of grass as he stepped, stopping just short of the muddy shore.
“One moment Mr. Morgan, wait! The mud is deep here, I didn’t know and now I am stuck.” As the words came out of her mouth Lydia suddenly wished that the mud had simply engulfed her rather than leaving her standing stuck up to her knees, facing a man whom she had only seen a few times and the last time also wet from rain.
He tested the shoreline with his boots and nodded his head in agreement. His dark hair clung to his creasing brow as the light rain began to increase in strength and the previously gentle breeze began to pick up speed, blasting Lydia’s dress against her legs and making the waters around her slap against the shoreline. It seemed like a fight between spring and winter had suddenly erupted with vengeance, both bent on winning over the day and staking claim to the valley around them, making the situation at hand even less pleasant to be in.
Never before had Lydia been placed in such an awkward situation, usually she was the one ready to render aid whenever needed, but now she was the one in need of assistance. A sudden blast of rain to her face shocked her back to the present, sending another chill over her body from head to toe. Mr. Ashton had now taken off his jacket and boots, laying them on the safety of the grassy edge and was rolling up his sleeves as Lydia watched chilled and helpless.
“Mr. Ashton I appreciate your help so very much, I . . .” she said choking on her words as he stepped barefoot into the mud. He only took three steps in and stopped.

Sparks in our lives . . .

So we have had some crazy mad weeks lately with lots going on . . . and some crazy moments that make life a little more flavorful shall we say. Here's a couple of the latest . . .

1- Toph surprised me with a night in SG at the Seven Wives Inn for Valentines Day (way fun!) . . . this is what we came out to in the morning . . . actually Toph had already started to clean it off . . . so yes it was worse . . . nice to know we are loved and can provide my sibs with some entertainment! (I personally am glad that you can't read what was written ALL OVER THE WINDOWS!) . . . and yes we know who you are!
2- Sunday I had a little project for my class to color and then I would cut it out and glue it together for them. So I was concentrating and cutting away trying to get them done before we had to go to closing exercises when out of the corner of my eye I see a shirt thrown onto the floor and look up to see a happy little ballerina dancing about the room in her jumper . . . it reminded me of my calling in the Sunbeams right before my mission when a little boy in my class was sitting next to me and had undone ALL of the buttons on his leder hosen during sharing time! I had no idea that leder hosen could come apart like that and it felt like brain surgery getting all of the buttons right! I love primary . . . NEVER a dull moment.

Grandpa Liechty, remembering a great man!

We were able to make it up to Logan last week to honor Chris' grandpa who passed away. It was a sad occasion to gather together for but it was so nice to see family and spend some time together remembering grandpa Liechty and attending his funeral. We were able to meet/see people cousins whom Chris had not seen in many years and whom I had never met. We love our Liechty Clan! Chris looks alot like his grandpa and it was neat to get to hear stories of his life and the many, many people who's lives he touched. Grandpa served in WWII and helped to liberate Dachau. I was very touched to hear of his life and deeds especially his ties to Germany and stories of his experiences. We are so grateful to know that our family is forever and that he is whole, happy and preparing to see all of his posterity again some day.
It was very touching to see these heroes offer a final solute to Grandpa Liechty. The entire service was very nice.
With almost all of our Liechty clan, minus 3 men in Texas whom we hope to see soon!
Toph with his beautiful sisters! Lucky guy!
Toph with his cousins and sibs!
The cute Liechty grand kids! A.k.a. our northern nieces and nephews who we wish that we saw more often!
Never camera shy!
Good bye Cache Valley! We will come again!

The 80's/90's is making a comeback?

Okay just driving home from school on Friday made ma laugh and do 20 double takes within 3 blocks! Yes ladies and gentlemen it was just on Friday that I came to see that the 80's and 90's are making a total comeback! The evidence was clear from the observations of fellow students that I made:
1- Guy crossing the crosswalk in MC Hammer pants! They were super baggy! The kid was so tall that it was a very surprising sight to see! They were solid black but could have been gold for how much they stood out!

2- Okay I had seriously never seen anything like this before but this girl was wearing high heels but her socks looked like puffy coat sleeves! They cold have been leg warmers but whatever she was sporting was something totally new to me!

3- The whole long skirt with the stretchy capri things . . . I can't think what they are right now but I know everyone knows. The YW where them to church too . . . very interesting!

4- Leg warmers everywhere! I still have 2 pair from my mission! They saved my life and kept my legs from turning to ice each day . . . especially while tracting!

5- Okay I have no idea where this trend came from . . . but flat brimmed baseball caps are apparently super cool . . . I guess I didn't get this memo. In fact i can now identify guys in my classes from far away because of the angle at which they wear there hats. How lovely. Do they have bad hat angle days like girls have bad hair days?

6- Pants! The tight ankle huggers and boys wearing girls pants! I just don't understand these things! Boys alway look like their pants are going to burst any second! In fact I vividly remember stopping at a grocery store in SG 3 years ago during the middles schools lunch hour because the store was overran with kids from the school and I honestly could not tell who the boys were and who the girls were! Same haircuts, same pants, and eyeliner all around! Oh lovely world we live in!

7- Oop item seven was spotted today being touted by a few male students . . . I thought that I had left this image behind in Europe . . apparently not! MAN-PRI'S! (Capri's for men) This is a very interesting choice . . . and kinda wigs me out!

I am curious about other styles/trends/ clothing that you have seen that made you do a double take or reminded you of an episode from Saved By the Bell!

Utah Science Teacher of the Year . . .

Here is a BIG congratulations to my amazing mom on being named the Secondary Science: Earth Systems teacher of the year by the Utah Science Teacher's Association!!! Way to go Mutterlein! Toph and I had the opportunity last semester of observing one of her classes for one of my education classes and watching her in action and I have to say she does an amazing job!!! She puts up with A LOT and really cares about her students success! Mutti you are the bomb.com! Congrats mom! We are so proud of you and the 110% you put into everything that you do!

How to tell where a driver is from!

One hand on wheel, one hand on horn: Chicago

One hand on wheel, one finger out window: New York

One hand on wheel, one hand on newspaper, foot solidly on accelerator: Boston

One hand on wheel, cradling cell phone, brick on accelerator: California.

With gun in lap: L.A.

Both hands on wheel, eyes shut, both feet on brake, quivering in terror: Ohio, but driving in California.

Both hands in air, gesturing, both feet on accelerator, head turned to talk to someone in back seat: Italy

One hand on latte, one knee on wheel, cradling cell phone, foot on brake, mind on game: Seattle

One hand on wheel, one hand on hunting rifle, alternating between both feet being on the accelerator and both on the brake, throwing a McDonalds bag out the window: Texas city male

One hand on wheel, one hand hanging out the window, keeping speed steadily at 70 mph, driving down the center of the road unless coming around a blind curve, in which case they are on the left side of the road: Texas country male

One hand constantly refocusing the rear-view mirror to show different angles of the BIG hair, one hand going between mousse, brush, and rat-tail to keep the helmet hair going, both feet on the accelerator, poodle steering the car, chrome .38 revolver with mother of pearl inlaid handle in the glove compartment: Texas female

Both hands on steering wheel in a relaxed posture, eyes constantly checking the rear-view mirror to watch for visible emissions from their own or another's car: Colorado

One hand on steering wheel, yelling obscenities, the other hand waving gun out the window and firing repeatedly, keeping a careful eye out for landmarks along the way so as to be able to come back and pick up any bullets that didn't hit other motorists so as not to litter: Colorado resident on spotting a car with Texas plate.

Four wheel drive pickup truck, shotgun mounted in rear window, beer cans on floor, squirrel tails attached to antenna: West Virginia male.

Junker, driven by someone who previously had a nice car and who is now wearing a barrel: Las Vegas

Two hands gripping wheel, blue hair barely visible above window level, driving 35 on the interstate in the left lane with the left blinker on: Florida "seasoned citizen" driver, also known as "no-see-um" (or could it be Marge Simpson?)

Two hands on the wheel, driving forty-five in a seventy mph zone in the left lane, with the left turn signal on, and making a right turn: New Mexico resident (as anyone who has ever driven through this lovely state can attest)

"The Dance" . . . for the girls.

The Dance

I watched my sister get ready for a dance last night,
It reminded me of many times before,
only I looked up then as make up was applied and hair was curled and set,
now I look down,
I watched as high heels were dug out of closets and lip gloss was glided on.
When did she get old enough to date?
When did I get too old for dances.
I picked up my daughter to keep her from crawling into the array of silk
and bulk of slips that swish and shimmer as my sister walked down the hall.
Glowing, she walks to the mirror once more to put her earrings in as the door bell rings.
The Prince of the evening has arrived to take our Cinderella away.
The walls flash white as pictures are taken before they head out the door.
Everyone smiles while flowers are exchanged and mother hurries over
to keep the young man from being poked by floral pins.
One last photo and they are out the door.
I pass my little squirmy one to Grandma as we look out the window.
They are off.
We all head into the kitchen and reminisce of past dances and princes over pizza,
each of us glad that our lives have moved past dance preparations,
but secretly looking forward to future ones with our daughters.

I am writing a book! . . . finally!

Okay . . . so last night I could not sleep and lay their for hours trying to konk out with no success . . . my mind just would not calm down . . . all of a sudden I realized that I had a story going in my head and I knew that I would lose my ideas and characters if I did not write them down . . . so Toph came in at 1:00 and caught me typing away pouring out my mind into a story overview that has me absolutely ecstatic! I have ALWAYS loved writing and have tons of different ideas written down and bits and pieces here and their but I am just way excited for this one! It is just fun for me to write and so releasing! I will let ya know when I am finally done with it one day . . . hopefully in the summer for sure! I think this one will appeal a bit more to women than to the fellas . . . but I could be wrong! (It is Austen era) Hey ladies thanks for your excitement upon hearing of my venture! I have always wanted to write a book and dedicate it to the amazing women in my life! I think this will be the one . . . hopefully the first of many . . . but who knows . . . we'll take it one day at a time! Maybe from time to time I will post a snippet!

Another day has gone by . . .

Holy guac peeps! Long time no see I know . . . thanks for the e-mails etc. Yes I plan on posting more recipes . . . no worries! Okay . . . talk about snow! I really thought that we were over the worst of the winter storms but hello Em it is January . . so of course we are going to have more storms! We were just so excited to have a parking lot NOT covered in ice finally and the day that it is almost completely clear it starts snowing all over again! Oh fun! Anywho life is just crazy as ever! It seems like the smaller the primary class I have . . . the more capable they are of shocking the hannah out of me and making me think "okay, I can handle this!" I am indeed teaching CTR 5 and my class is darling but has LOTS, and LOTS of energy! Toph laughed for like 10 minutes straight without getting air I think when I told him about my little adventure on Sunday! I think I was crimson during all of closing excercises chasing kids down and some of the words that come out of their sweet little mouths are a little shocking to say the least! I just hope that the other kids don't learn them . . . and of course if you say "oh, lets not say that word" then of course they are going to scream it at the top of their lungs while jumping chairs in closing excercises! Next week I am injecting fruit snacks with tranqs (JK!) They are too cute and we had a great sharing time! I colored, cut and laminated things all week prepping and we made it threw smooth! Our house was happy and smiling in the end! We are going to Inkheart for our date night Friday if anyone wants to come! I think it looks a little scary but I am sure I will be able to handle it (?). Ami congrats on your new calling! I loved serving in that calling and you will do great chica! Brecky you have some stylin' hair man! Alles gute!

Sick . . . again!

Em is down for the count yet again with a second time around with the flu! Hope all is well in your world!

Hotel Info . . .

So I have had a little experience working in the hospitality industry while going to college . . first as a waitress (oh loved that time . . .) and currently in the hotel industry and I have a few little hints for you . . . so family and friends as you start planning vacations and looking for deals on travel and hotel rooms here are a few helpers and things to be aware of . . .

- Be aware of "discount" internet sites! I can't tell you how many times people have come in thinking that their room was already paid for and low and behold the site that they made reservations on (while popular and advertised by actors and actresses or little figurines) does not have an account with our facility even though they sold guests a room!
- Discount internet sites often times have "hidden" or additional charges for making reservations. A gentleman called me the other day to check to see if his reservation had been canceled as he requested to the site that he made the reservation with. Not only had they failed to cancel the reservation (ie he would have been charged for failing to cancel it within the required time period) they had charged him a $28.00 booking fee for making the reservation that he had failed to notice in the fine print and it was not reimbursed to him even when he canceled!
- It takes a lot of time and money to keep hotels up . . . so most times you get what you pay for! Their usually is a BIG difference between a room advertised for $32.00 and $79.00!
- Now is a good time to book rooms because of the economy! You will most likely be able to call the hotel and get a good deal. Most are fairly open to a little negotiating right now.
- Join hotel clubs! You can get discounts, points, free stays, upgrades etc. It is painless and easy! Most people prefer staying with certain hotel chains because of the benefits offered by clubs!
- If you have AAA or are a member of AARP or work for the Government check for discounts! (Hint hint, police officers, etc.) You will need a valid and ID and proof of membership!
- Breakfast . . . this is a kicker for hotels right now especially . . . most hotels are trying to win guests with breakfast. Call or check online to see what is offered and consider this while accounting the cost of the room. You need breakfast so rather than paying more by eating out . . . eat at the hotel offered breakfast and save $$.
- Check reservations! Don't just check online! Call the hotel and make sure that they received your reservation. Just because you received an e-mail and confirmation number does not mean that it really went through! This happens ALOT! Some sites are scammers, no matter how popular they are or fail to cancel reservations. Call and make sure your reservation is correct too!
- Walk-ins. It is always best to have a reservation ensuring that you have a room, but walking in can sometimes save you big time . . . depending on how busy the hotel is and the season. You would be amazed how open to negotiation some hotels can be over price or on upgrades.
- For a happy staff/stay . . . if you have any problems let the staff know immediately and don't be afraid to ask to switch rooms if anything is wrong! But remain calm and polite! Most hotels do all that they can to make a guests stay as comfortable as possible and have toiletries ie razors, shampoo, toothbrushes etc for guests if you forget anything.
- Report pets! If you have a pet let the staff know! Don't sneak one in or assume that they accept pets! Check ahead of time WITH THE STAFF! Some sites may advertise hotels as being pet friendly that no longer are! You can and will be charged if you fail to notify the staff that you have a pet (of any kind). Plus they ALWAYS find out (!!!) from other guests, other staff members, the room condition etc. Be respectful and honest.
-Cancellation. Find out the cancellation policy! If you are held up by emergencies or weather most hotels are fairly understanding and won't charge you! Some policies state that the room must be sold to another guest before cancellations will be enforced.
-Staff. Last but NOT least . . . be nice to the hotel staff! If they are being horrible that is one thing but remember that it is not their fault that they don't know your favorite cereal and don't serve it at breakfast or that you clogged your toilet at 2am. They honestly want to make you happy (otherwards they get their heads eaten off and get to deal with oh so happy you!).

Overall just inform yourself and never be afraid to call the hotel and check on anything and everything!!! (I should write a book . . . it would be shocking the stories that I have heard and could tell!)

Photo session giveaway . . .

My darling and talented sister in law Brandi is doing a photo session give away! Check out her photo blog by clicking here! She did our family photos and they turned out wonderful!!!

A NEW YEAR!

Hola, Greusstig, Hey there, How are ya? Is everyone ready for a new year? Holy cow I could use a beverage about now (did you hear that Toph . . . oop it is late and he is doing what I should be doing . . . sleeping!!! besides we kicked caffiene . . . again . . .). School has begun once again . . . and it is going to be a busy semester! But right now my mind is all about shoving my homework aside and just saying how very blessed we had been in 2008 and already how many blessings have come our way in 2009.

-Chris graduating and today we found out that he got a new job that is such a blessing to our family and one at which he can continue his education and prepare for his Masters! (Call him and ask him about it!)

-He is also serving as second counselor in the Elders Quorum and is loving every minute of it!

-Toph is also the poster boy for amazing husbands! 5 minutes in our home will convince you of this I know . . . I see the things that he does everyday . . . and it makes me more grateful for him everyday! I am so proud of you Toph and of all that you have achieved this year and of the example you are and the wonderful husband that you are!

-I am now teaching CTR A and have a class with a couple of darling girls who have enough stories each Sunday to fill volumes and who just light up my life! The kids in junior primary say the funniest yet most brilliant things! What a joy and a blessing it is to serve in primary!

-I am getting more excited the closer I get to graduating and realize how much my passion for teaching is growing with every class that I take and every book that I read! (History is exciting! Say it with me . . . "I love History!")

Other blessings have come to us through seeing the joy and blessings that have come into the ones that we love . . . new babies, jobs, graduation, baptisms, birthdays, athletic events, etc. We are so grateful for wonderful families and friends! We know that sometimes time eludes us and lives get packed to the brim . . . but you are always in our hearts, on our minds and in our prayers! May 2009 bring much happiness and the continual blessings of a loving Father in Heaven! Happy New Year everyone!

First Day of School

This is my wifes first day of the semester. She is stoked about her new classes and looks forward to a great semester. I wish her the best of luck on her classes and her professors. She will do a great job!

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Snow! Snow! Snow!

Okay I know that the state is getting coated in the white stuff . . . as are we . . . Toph shoveled the sidewalks (our apt manager never does . . .) and five minutes later it was piled high again! Right now the soft stuff is falling . . . my favorite kind! But mensch is it coming down!Softly falling . . . covering my car and leaving my clean floors slick and salty . . . too bad I volunteered to work tonight! We are planning on watching the Utah vs SUU game tomorrow . . . hopefully we will be dug out by then!We hope that everyone traveling for Christmas is safe! Be super careful kiddles! It is nice if you can just stay inside all day . . . but it is not so fun having to go out and drive in it . . . plus our cities 1 snow plow (okay we may have more . . . just not as many as the North . . . a little joke between us . . .) is kept busy avoiding our street! To top things off . . . I discovered that the holiday drink that I am is MILK! I was so pulling for hot chocolate! I am not quite crazy enough to be eggnog, which I can understand . . . but Milk?

You Are Milk

Your holiday personality is innocent. The holidays make you feel like a kid all over again. You love every part of the holidays, and you anticipate Christmas morning. You enjoy getting presents as much as you did when you were young!

What Holiday Drink Are You?

Okay Toph took the test and we discovered that he is hot chocolate . . . so it makes sense now since his drink of choice is milk and mine is hot chocolate . . . what a relief! (Okay I am in between semesters and my brain has turned to jello and will hopefully set again before school starts! . . . hence the reason that I feel things like this are important . . . give me a break!)

You Are Hot Chocolate

Your holiday personality is generous. The holidays are your favorite time to practice the art of giving. You enjoy picking out presents, sharing treats, and making everyone's day a little brighter. And you don't even notice if you don't get anything in return.

What Holiday Drink Are You?