bacon and bitch

Fa ra ra ra ra, ra ra ra ra!

2011-12-26T09:27:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

With awkwardfamilyphotos.com being one of our favorite websites, we decided to take a picture of our own to submit.

Fa ra ra ra ra, ra ra ra ra!

Love,

Mitch & Meg (Gabby, Sage, and Zander too!)

Tales of critical care . . . Grey's Anatomy is partially correct

2011-12-07T09:55:00.001-08:00

In October I started a new position at an awesome hospital here in Nashville. I am working in the surgical ICU, or SICU if you want to be cool and know the lingo. I am not very smart. Let me explain why. I was going to do critical care right after graduation and had the opportunity to do so because I did my internship in critical care. But, I didn't. Somedays I wish I would have just done that right after graduation because I would be so much further along. 4 years later and here I am, starting over in a way. It is such a toss up. I learned so many valuable lessons at my other positions over the last few years. I have learned how to assess a patient with my eyes and instincts rather than by machines. Also, I learned a lot about people, the good and bad. But, I feel like if that is what I originally wanted to do what took me so long?! Well, here I am. Training for a new job . . . again. I have had so much to learn and re-learn. I have forgotten so many things! It is sad.

Does this look intimidating? I really feel bad for families when they have to walk in a room that looks like this. If I didn't know anything medical I would be frightened out of my mind!

This picture cracks me up. Critical care nurses are really not that cool.

Now on to Grey's Anatomy. I have worked in a lot of teaching facilities which means I am surrounded by interns (21st grade), residents (23rdish grade), and fellows (25ish grade). This hospital is a teaching facility and I just have to say that there is a lot of shenanigans that go down. I mean these doctors are at the hospital every day for 12 hours or more a day. So, they have to get their flirting action on (and more than flirting *snicker*) somewhere.
Here's the deal. Imagine what you look like after working 7 days straight for 16 hours or more. This is where TV gets it wrong. This is what they look like on Grey's.

Yeah, not so much, this is what they really look like . . .

I really have a lot of respect for doctors. A lot of nurses are very negative and have harsh words for doctors. I tend to think differently (for the most part). They put in a lot of schooling, sacrifice a lot (including sleep!), and work insane hours. I guess it all pays off when they are attending physicians but man oh man, I think it would be rough getting there!

I would have the greasiest hair of them all! :)

Let the countdown begin!

2011-09-29T19:28:00.001-07:00

(I am so getting him one of these cute bears)

I wanted to put a countdown on our blog when Mitch started PT school over 2 years ago but he wouldn't let me because he said he didn't want to look at how long he had. He said it would depress him. But now, let the drumroll begin!!! I have put a countdown on the blog. Here's to May 5th, 2012!!!!!

On May 5th, 2012 Mitch will have his doctorate degree. Yip!

On May 5th, 2012 Mitch will be able to sing . . . school's out forever!

On May 5th, 2012 Mitch will wear one of those fancy gowns with the velvet on his neck and one of those funky hats (wiki says it is called a tam).

On May 5th, 2012 Mitch will have his dreams come true, he will be a member of the workforce.

At the end of the summer 2012 Mitch will realize that school really isn't all that bad, in fact it is awesome. Holiday breaks, weekends off, summers off.

At the end of the summer 2012, Mitch will realize that working is well, overrated at times. Also, Mitch will then take care of paying the bills because I am sick of it!

Until then!

Last minute maybe

2011-08-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

= me.

Possibly.

In a little over a month. I will update more when I decide yay or nay for sure. Right now I am 95% sure.

2011-07-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

You know "those" couples that have pets before they have kids?

Well . . . we are them. They are us.

I used to make fun of "those" couples. Seriously, I thought it was so stupid that people would get pets before they have kids. I mean, if they can afford pets, can't they afford kids? Do they really think that having pets prepares them for kids? Lame.

Alas, here we are. Not only do we have our awesome cat, Gabby

But, we now have a doggie!!!!!

Everyone, meet Sage . . .

Sage Louisa Peterson. Why in the heck did we give her a middle name? Because I always have to say so and so "poo" or something cheesy like that. So, I call her Sagee Lou. I am kind of ridiculous I know.

Sage is 4 months old. Yes, 4 months and she is already that big. She is a Belgian malinois mix. Belgian malinois are basically the Dutch version of German Shephards and are a medium size dog vs. a large size (German Shephard). She is a rescue dog. She was found with her brother wandering along a major highway.

Interesting factoid. Belgian malinois breeds are awesome. Why? A Belgian malinois was used in killing Bin Ladin.

Once upon a time (about 3-4 years ago) Mitch was watching a dog show. Yep, he watches dog shows. Anyways, he saw a "mali" on one (the "cool" people who have malinois call them "mali") and has been obsessed with getting one ever since. If I could count how many times he talked about one it would probably be equivalent to the amount of times I have looked at this blog, www.whatkatewore.com. Needless to say, he has been obsessing about getting this dog.

Problem, they are purebreds. Purebreds used for police training and killing Osama = $$$$.

So, when he found Sage through a rescue organization and that she was a malinois mix we just knew it was the closest to getting his dream dog right now.

This breed is very agile, physical and super smart. Oh, and they love to be with their companions. That means we have to keep her busy physically and mentally.

We have to walk/run her every morning and night.

How does the kitty like her? Well, she doesn't love her and probably never will but she is tolerating her more and more every day. Hissing was very common the first few days. Poor Sage just wants to play with Gabby but Gabby can't stand how hyper she is.

Here is the lamest part. I feel like I have a toddler or baby. We have to be on a "schedule." I constantly have to watch her. I have to keep her occupied or she tears things up. She always wants a snack. Potty training. Teething. We have to keep things out of her reach. She eats random things off the floor (she ate a ketchup packet the other day, great. Thought she did smush a cockroach the other day which I appreciated). I have to learn how to discipline her properly. She falls and runs into things and just plops around. Seriously, I even worry about her during the day.

We really want to train her right so that doesn't become destructive due to her intelligence or so that she doesn't harm anyone by her physicality.

Here to being one of "those" couples!!!

**I really hope to blog more. I hope to update you on these topics: Mitch's b-day, our 6th anniversary tomorrow for which we have planned nothing because we are kind of broke, why we are broke, 4th of July, my flowers that I have dutifully attended to this summer, Mitch's clinicals, car accident, wounds with cockroaches, our neighborhood, The Help, my awesome Mom, and my aforementioned fave website www.whatkatewore.com.

Our house in the middle of the street

2011-06-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

We've moved

Our rental house. Isn't it cute? It is even cuter now that I have added some flowers. I guess I will have to post more later!

Welcome back to Tennessee! Cicadas everywhere!

2011-05-30T20:52:00.001-07:00

Interesting factoid. Did you know that every 13 years the cicada brood XIX of the south emerges? They all emerge for one purpose: to mate. Well, I didn't either until now!

There are annual cicadas which I hate because bugs are just gross but there aren't that many and they don't last too long so I survive. But not this year! They are everywhere!!!!

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeewwwwwwwwwwwww!

Seriously, this picture accurately shows how it is right now. This is not an exaggeration.

Mitch's reaction when a cicada gets on him, "Meg, pull over. There is a cicada on my shorts."

My reaction, "Ahhhhh!! Get it off! Get if off!! Eeeewww!!!" (As I shake my hair and body in a well, hysterical fashion).

Twice in church yesterday people had to go outside with a cicada clenched in fist because cicadas got in. Eeeeeeewwwwww.

I am going to post more later because I have a lot to post about our Utah trip and we moved. No more rabbits/cockfights!!!!

Scarly Poo

2011-05-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

We are here in Utah!

I was finally able to meet this little, cutest, most adorable niece ever!

Isn't she so precious and adorable?!

Congrats M & P!

What are your thoughts?

2011-05-05T21:21:00.000-07:00

I can't decide what to do with this blog.

Should I make a separate "my issues/bull crap blog"?

I always contemplate not even having a blog but then suddenly people tell me they read it and want to keep in touch. Ok, that's cool.

I just am not sure what to do because I want this blog to be more about Mitch and I rather than only me. That is what has happened in the last few months and I am not sure if I like it.

I think the reason I am contemplating this again is because people who have read my blog (my last post in particular about my issues/Paleo) have asked me if I am okay and that they are worried about me. This is not what I want to happen with this blog. I want to be able to just say whatever and not worry. I think the reason why I never started a blog only for my health stuff is because I want people to really read it. I am not looking for sympathy. I promise. I just want awareness. I know I haven't said exactly what my problem is. Though, if you look at all the clues I have given you could google it an figure it out.

I think another reason I even want to keep a blog is I want to someday feel I am on the winning side of the battle and use this blog as a resource for others who have what I have.

I think I am embarassed by what I have? Maybe? I get frustrated that it is actually pretty common (and even more common because many are undiagnosed) and no one knows how downright awful and sucky it can be sometimes. It is not always awful though in the sense of functioning. I am able to work (I do have bad days though). I go to church (sometimes I sleep straight through it). I seem normal. I am not "sick" as most people think of someone that has a disorder. But, I wouldn't consider myself well. I just feel off. Let me put it this way, I know what it used to feel like to feel good and I am not that way right now. I want to get back to that. I have days where I feel well (physically, emotionally, and mentally) and days where I definitely don't. But, I can still function. So, does that make sense?? Not really? Ok, sorry. I am not good with words.

**I get frustrated that people think what I have can just be fixed. It can't (at least not right now according to medical science). It was once thought that it could be fixed but then it was discovered a simple procedure doesn't cure it. It can be managed, not fixed. **

This brings me to my next point. I think when I wrote my post the other night I was worried that I came across as being depressed which . . . . . . is exactly what ended up happening. So, let me clarify. I am not depressed. I am frustrated. I have days where I feel down but I am not clinically depressed. Is clinically frustrated a diagnosis? If so, then I have it. Honestly, I am happy. I laugh everyday. I delight in fresh air. I recognize my blessings daily.

I am not depressed. I have no reason to be depressed.

I am alive.

I can walk.

I have a job.

Mitch is in school.

My Mom is alive. She is a fighter.

My Dad is alive.

Family.

Friends.

I have a new niece!

(I can't forget my kitty! :)

I am grateful.

There are a million other reasons I could elaborate on but you get the point.

Just call me Frustrated.

So, what do you think? Should I make a separate blog?

Royal Wedding love

2011-05-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

If you know me or have seen my facebook you know I am obsessed with the Royal Wedding.

I blame it on my mom. My mom was obsessed with Diana. She told me how she even stayed up to watch the wedding of Di and Charles. So, it began with me. I still remember the night Diana died. We were at home and mom was out grocery shopping. It came across the TV that Princess Diana had died in Paris in a car crash. My mom came home and Ry and I yelled at her that Princess Diana had died. I remember her telling us not to play a joke on her. I think a part of my mom died inside that night.

So, for mother's day that year we got her a giant framed picture of Diana. Awesome huh?

I blame my mom for my love of Prince William. I honestly thought I was going to marry him. I dreamt that I would be in London for a fashion show (apparently I thought I was going to go into fashion. Ha!) and he would see me walking on the street. Then, it would be love at first sight. Me and Prince William. We would then get married and it would be all over the news that Prince William married and American! And not only would he marry an American but he would marry a Mormon and join the church. We would get married in the Temple. Can't you just see it?

Ok, not so much.

But, that's okay because I love Kate Middleton. Isnt she fab?

I just love Wills! Ok, he may be balding now but I still adore him.

I have honestly been waiting for this wedding for years. I remember when they supposedly broke up for good a few years ago I was ,um, slightly devastated.

I just think they are so cute together. Don't you!?

I am a so obsessed that I woke up at 4 am to watch the wedding and it was delightful. I have been waiting in such anticipation for her dress and it didn't disappoint!

Amazing!!! I loved her dress!!!!!

I loved that it was at Westiminster Abbey. Gorgeous!!!!! I loved that William didn't turn around. He was the last person in the world to see her in her dress. Eeeeeekkkk!!!!

The balcony... So cute! Though, I wish he would have grabbed her closer. Love them!

Love this official photo. Isn't it gorgeous?!

Now to the funnies....

Ok, I am dying to know what Harry said to William when he looked to see Kate walking down the aisle. Such the jokester!

Maybe he was making remarks about "Piping hot" Pippa! Holy smokes she looked amazing!

Worst hat!!!!! Seriously, Beatrice? Again???!!! What was she thinking?!!

Ha! Ha! She was not a happy camper!!!!

Good luck to Kate and Will!!!! Please don't break up. I don't think they will since they have such a long history but I still get nervous.

I cannot get over this moment when he tells her she looks beautiful with that sheepish grin.

Cheers to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge!

It was worth being tired all day!

*I will say this, if I were British I might be slightly ticked that my tax payer money was spent on this but I am not so I got to thoroughly enjoy this moment!*

So, what did you think? Don't act like you didn't watch any of the royal wedding coverage :)

I can't wait until they have kids!!!

I don't even know where to start

2011-05-02T22:52:00.001-07:00

I realize it has been a little over a month since I posted.

**Warning if you feel like reading about me complain of my problems then go ahead and read. You will like this post. If you want to read something funny go to the end of the post.**

*** Sometimes I hate that I complain and think woe is me. It's not like I have lung cancer. I could use a lesson or two of being positive as exemplified by my Mom. But, I am selfish that way. Go me. ***

I just have not been sure what to say. Well, here it goes. Are you ready? I am in a weird mood right now and may look back at this post and wonder what the heck I was thinking. In fact, I know I will. Oh, and I can't fall asleep so I am writing this wayyyy too late at night and my sleepy brain is shrouding my sense.

After about 70 days or so of gluten-free and about 40 days of Paleo I got super bored with the food I was eating. I know there are no excuses because there are a million recipes out there. But, you have to consider my limited cooking abilities, my lack of cooking confidence, and my time. I hate to say this but I don't have time to cook more elaborate meals nor do I have the energy.

So, with that being said I decided to experiment. I was (and still am) skeptical of Paleo. Don't get me wrong I think it is great. It promotes healthy eating. How can that be so bad? It's not bad, it is great. I am just still not convinced of the theories behind Paleo. In fact, the "bull crap" that I have does not have a defined causation in the medical community. In fact, the medication I take was discovered to work only by chance.

So, I started doing Paleo because a major theory out there for the cause of the "bull crap" condition I have is that it is caused by autoimmunity. Paleo is considered a way of eating that does not cause your body to elicit those autoimmune responses (inflammation, cytokines, macrophages, all those good immunity efforts your body puts out). So, really, I was testing a good theory upon a good theory.

One of my biggest goals is to lose weight because losing weight helps increase fertility (yes, gasp! I am thinking of pregnancy). Have I lost weight? Yes, and no. The first five was due to water weight loss and the other few after that were because I started to take my medication again ( I was off it while Paleo and am on it again because for some reason I felt I should go back on it again. That is a story for another day) and it makes me super nauseated all the time. I just don't like to eat sometimes. So, I wouldn't say Paleo has been particularly successful to help me lose weight.

*Before you say or think anything, let me answer your inevitable question. Yes, I work out. I work out everyday. Sometimes for 2 hours As much as I love to work out always thinking about how I need to work out gets old sometimes.*

Like I mentioned before, I did notice some physical appearance improvements with Paleo. I think that is a major reason I am not giving up on it quite yet because those improvements were really telling to me. But, there was something that kind of got messed up which really disappointed me about Paleo. What?! I was so confused.

I can't even remember where I am going with this post now......

Oh, yes, my other Paleo experience. So, I decided to go 90/10 with Paleo. All in all not too bad. Hmmmm, so that means I can have some "regular" food and still feel okay???? Then, I went 80/20, 70/30 and downwards. I would say my worst has been down to 50/50 but for the most part I was 70/30.

Result? I have had no energy. Literally, this is the reason for not posting for several, several days. It has been pathetic. But, I am not sure if it is just coincidence or not. I get this way every few months and it lasts for a few weeks. So, was it from being not so Paleo or was it just from how things are with the "bull crap"?

One thing I definitely discovered (which I already knew but it was confirmed 100%) sugar and I are not friends. We are star-crossed lovers. I love sugar. Seriously I love candy. But it causes me problems. Case-in-point, I currently look like a 14-year-old going through puberty. I have acne. Yep, that's right I have had to pull out the Proactive. Sucky. I have no one to blame but myself. Easter was not a good day (s) for me when it came to eating chocolate and candy.

Now, I just don't have energy. Though, I feel it is coming back again.

*Before you say anything or think this, just stop. Yes, I had my thyroid tested yet again. I even got more extensive testing done including antibodies. As of now, my thyroid is fine.*

Duh, this is main point of my post. I am so sick and tired of this thing. I feel it has robbed me of my energy for life these last few years and it may rob me of the same and even more in the future. I often feel bad for Mitch. I think he stays because I have a nice rack (sorry to embarrass you!). I need to get control of this situation.

I feel some aspects are under control but not everything.

So....... where do I go from here? I am not sure. I could say liposuction but that won't do anything. My problem will just make the jiggles come back. So, I am not spending money on something so worthless. Oh, and I don't have that money so that helps :) Oh, and before you say, "you aren't fat!" You are right, I am not. I am not thin. I am regular. That is fine. But, I just don't feel right. That's why I am trying to change things.

I feel a weepy 80's song coming on or even better, a weepy seminary song coming on....

Have you ever fallen asleep at the computer with your finger on the board??? sssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.

That is how I have been every day. Blah, sleepy.

Mitch and I love to laugh about this because we both have done this while at the computer lab at BYU. Good memories of sleep deprivation by studying.

Yes, I am alive.

2011-05-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

I have so many things to post about.

*Getting lost while hiking (in the dark) on my birthday

*I have a niece!!!!

*Easter

* Paleo

* The Royal Wedding!

Until I finally make an actual update, a video about the Royal Wedding to enjoy. This really gave me a great laugh!

http://youtu.be/Kav0FEhtLug

Day 31 - Come out, come out wherever you are!

2011-03-31T18:28:00.001-07:00

I continue to need to find new Paleo recipes but I have been to lazy so I keep eating the same stuff. Oh well. I have too much on my mind such as, SVS!

Who is SVS? SVS is my sister's baby that is due any day now! Her first name has not been divulged so we just call her SVS or ninja.

Again, I have to admit something. I cried the other night. I am pretty upset about not being there on the day she is born. I for some reason think that I am the most important person in this birth. Oh wait, I am not. It's not like SVS is going to remember that I wasn't there. But, it just makes me sad that I will see her for the first time a month after she is born. Babies change so much in a month!!!!

I got a onesie for SVS with this logo on it. It is from the Loveless cafe I posted about earlier that makes its biscuits from scratch. Isn't that funny, or punny!?!!

Though, she is not coming out and may not actually fit in the onesie. The only good thing is that SVS is taking her time because she wants to be born in April and share her birthday month with her favorite auntie!!

I made a bunch of new posts from Day 25 to this post. Enjoy!

Tomorrow, a non-paleo day.

Day 30!!!! - Jimmer spanish style

2011-03-31T18:27:00.003-07:00

We decided last minute to attend the friendly match of USA vs. Paraguay soccer at the Titans stadium.

It was awesome!

Landon Donovan!!!!

Mitch kind of has problems when it comes to posing. We have worked and worked on it and well, you can see the results :)

Wahoo! It was really fun! But, they lost. They possessed the ball for most of the game and had some really close shots but they just didn't pull it off. :((((((((

Jimmer en Espanol!!!!!!!!!!

*Sorry, bad photo quality but I had to crop off the tequila that was at the end of it :)

In other news, Day 30 of Paleo has arrived.

Has it been successful? Yes, and sort of. Because I am not so sure about it I am going to continue doing it. I feel better, yes. Do I look better? Yes and no. I don't have crazy acne (the occasional break out but I am okay with that. Severe acne like I was having off and on before was not okay). The strange thing is that I lost a few pounds at first (water weight) but then nothing. Literally. Not a pound. I wasn't doing this 30 day challenge to lose weight though. I was truly doing it to see if I would feel better and I succeeded at that. So, now my next 30 days is going to be focused on weight loss. Secretly, I was hoping I would just lose weight by continuing my usual exercise regimen (I do an hour cardio 4-5x/week), some new weight lifting classes, and the much healthier diet. Nope. Every other normal person in this world would have lost probably 10-15 pounds. Not me. I am supposed to lose weight to make my condition better but losing weight from my body is like a Republican liking Obama. Not going to happen.

But, I am not giving up quite yet.

Here's to 30 more days! Wish me luck!

Also, I have a my 3-month follow-up appointment with my endocrinologist in June and that will be 3 months of being Paleo. I just want to prove him wrong and show improvement with diet and no medication. 1 month had some positive results but I really need more to prove him wrong.

(Did I just imply by saying I am not giving up on the diet that Republicans could like Obama? :)

Day 29 - Just another manic Monday

2011-03-31T18:27:00.001-07:00

I need to decrease my stress. I think my stress level at times is exacerbating the bull crap I have.

I have to admit something, I am getting bored with Paleo. I need to get creative again.

Day 28 - um again

2011-03-31T18:26:00.002-07:00

I can't remember but I followed Paleo. I swear. For reals.

Day 27 - um?

2011-03-31T18:26:00.001-07:00

Honestly, I can't even remember. I was busy being on-call with work so I can't remember. I ate Paleo. The end.

Day 26 - Not so sweet sixteen

2011-03-31T18:25:00.000-07:00

Obituaries
BYU Basketball

The BYU Basketball team was chomped on March 24, 2011 by the Florida Gators after a courageous battle on the court that even extended into OT. It was in this time that they decided to give up the fight, lie down and get chomped on.

The 2010-2011 team led an impressive year with a 30-4 record. They were adored by the best fans in the world. They were a beacon of light that shined not only in Provo but even up north to the "other" school where, though they won't admit it, the "others" cheered for these Cougars and their leading man, Jimmer. It was this season where the Jimmer shined exceedingly and caught the attention of the nation. Yet, not only did they succeed on the court but they also succeeded academically. It is possible that this Jimmer will change the english language forever by adding the verb, "Jimmered." Lastly, even when it was hard, they still stuck to their morals.

The 2010-2011 BYU basketball team is survived by their many adoring fans, the "others" up north, the college basketball nation, Jimmer t-shirt makers, and many more that there is simply not enough room to write. A funeral was already held in the broken hearts of all the BYU basketball fans after their tragic chomping. In lieu of flowers, please buy a Jimmer t-shirt of your choice, a Jimmer/Romney bumper sticker or vote for Jimmer for the Naismith award.

(Condolences can be made in the comment section of this obituary)

Can you tell I was depressed? I seriously get so upset and was upset for a whole week. I literally wanted to eat chocolate so bad this night but alas Paleo strictness prevailed.

Day 25 - The nerves!

2011-03-31T18:23:00.000-07:00

I am so nervous for the BYU vs. Florida game. I seriously have an ulcer.

Please, please BYU. Please make this game sweet, sixteen!

Paleo? I can't even remember. I probably ate spaghetti squash and meatballs.

Day . . . . too tired

2011-03-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have been this for the last week and a half . . .

(This is me falling asleep in the lobby of a hotel when we were in Europe with Mitch's study abroad group. I was able to go with them on their last excursion. One of his classmates decided to take this wonderfully flattering picture of me).

This is seriously why I haven't posted. I haven't even had the energy to post on the blog.

I love my condition, disease, syndrome, whatever you want to call it. I usually refer to it as bull crap in our house. So, that is what I am going to start calling it on this blog from now on. Bull crap.

It makes me so productive . . . not.

I have several posts coming up. Stay tuned!

Day 24 - The Filipino Channel

2011-03-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

Imagine this, you have a neurological disease that you need an infusion every month for 4 days. Each day last up to 5 hours. Then, imagine you have to have a strange nurse in your home managing that infusion. Doesn't that just seem so weird?

I am that strange nurse.

I do several of these infusions every month with different patients. I have a new case that I started this week. So, I have to start the IV, mix the medication, take a lot of vital signs and do paperwork. So for the other 3-4 hours I get to either finish paperwork I haven't finished from other patients, read, or watch TV.

What did I end up doing majority of my time at this latest infusion? I watched The Filipino Channel. No, let me re-word that. I was forced. This patient of mine was so awesome and nice and I just couldn't say no to watching the TV channel of his homeland. Watch! Watch the Filipino Channel!

I watched the traffic cameras in some of the busiest intersections.

I watched soap operas.

I watched entertainment shows.

I watched the news.

I pretty much speak Tagalog now.

Oh, and then my patient also liked to watch Who Wants to be a Millionaire and Family Feud. It was awesome.

I also really like being at his house when eating Paleo. It was easy to heat up my food rather than when I am usually on the road.

Though, he was so kind and kept offering me food. I politely declined saying it was because that I already had food but it was really that I couldn't eat the wonderful food he was offering me.

Oh, and another thing that I always get offered is tea and coffee. But, I decline that for another reason. People always think I am crazy when I tell them I don't drink tea or coffee. Seriously, they just look at me like I am an alien for a few seconds.

I love being an alien. I am always that weird alien.

So, I like to include random pictures with my post. I looked up weird alien and this is what came up in the images search. Isn't this hilarious! Why do ridiculous magazines like this even exist? And who actually buys them?!

Day 23 - Our God is an awesome God

2011-03-22T19:32:00.000-07:00

Guess what song we stretched to at the end of Zumba? "An Awesome God." Yes, Our God is an awesome God. But, to stretch to? I just felt weird. The YMCA is a Christian centered gym so it is allowed. I just dunno how I feel about it. And then at the end the Zumba instructor (who is amazing by the way) said a prayer. Huh?

Welcome to the South.

I mean I sound like I don't approve of saying a prayer or talking about God. That is not the case. It is just something I still haven't adjusted to being in the South even after 2 years. Can you believe it has been nearly two years since we have been here?

I am a horrible person and when stuff like this happens I just start to giggle. I just don't know how to handle my self when people all of the sudden start praying or raise the hands to praise the Lord. I am not giggling because I think it is funny. I giggle because I get so uncomfortable that for some reason giggling is the only thing that comes out.

Giggle, giggle.

Paleo, Paleo. You have helped me to feel better. Many of my symptoms have improved, but not all. Yet? I hope? I know I have only been doing it for 23 days so I need to be patient. In my defense though, I have been gluten free for 5 weeks and so I basically haven't been eating processed foods for that long which means I have been cutting out a lot of bad foods. What I am getting at is that....

I am frustrated.

I feel I have stalled in some ways. (Though, Mitch says my arms look more toned. Whoop!! I totally flexed for him and made him grab my uber big biceps).

I am going to continue plugging along.

You know I heard a scripture taught in relief society a month or so ago that although I had heard it before just somehow hit me like a ton of bricks.

Luke 21:19

"In your patience possess ye your souls."

I have never, ever, ever, ever been a patient person. This stupid syndrome or whatever you want to call it requires me to have extreme patience. I hate to say this but I think this is all going to be good for me. I feel that I will eventually get closer to the point of "possess ye your souls" or as I like to think of it, self control. I think this whole process is going to help me in many aspects of my life.

I was so excited to share this scripture with Mitch on the day I was reminded of it. I was so excited to share with him how it applies to my life.

He says, remember the movie That Thing You Do? On this one part one of the guy says that scripture and the other is like, who's Luke?

Nice Mitch, nice. I am glad such an immensely spiritual moment for me reminds you of That Thing You Do. :)

Speaking of the South, look forward to my post about the clogging convention and the team names. Oh, and I take care of famous people!

One more thing, I am always thinking Ooh! I should write that on my blog! I used to think my life was so boring but you know, my life is pretty interesting for the normal life I live!

Day 19 , 20, 21, 22 - who honestly goes to a clogging convention?

2011-03-20T19:50:00.000-07:00

I realize I am extremely behind. Why you ask? I went to a clogging convention in Gatlinburg, TN. Yes, I am a total dork and went to the convention. Mitch just watched March Madness games all day and "studied" he says. :)

It was pretty awesome because I took some classes from awesome cloggers like the ones you see on SYTYCD (So You Think You Can Dance) and ABDC (America's Best Dance Crew). Yes, I use the lingo. They were amazing.

I have so much more to say but I really need to hit the hay.

Did I follow Paleo you ask? Yes, but it was really hard. Gatlinburg has so many pancake houses it is ridiculous. I so wanted pancakes. Actually, this weekend was pretty bad for me. I was really, really, really, craving sweets. I seriously almost caved on several occasions.

If u ever come to Tennessee you need to go to Gatlinburg. It is a fun city right at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains and there is a lot to do. It is super cute.

Day 18 - almond butter March Madness Jimmer time

2011-03-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

With this no inflammation food experiment (I hate the word "diet." I am not on a diet. I am experimenting) I can't eat peanut butter. So, I started eating almond butter.

At first? Not that impressed. But now, I love it.

It's March Madness time!!!!!!

I am so nervous for BYU. Seriously, I am worried about their first game. A common phrase in our house is, "Don't screw the pooch BYU" (adapted from Michael Scott of the Office if you were wondering).

I am also really excited for the Aggies. I was very surprised at their seed. 12? Seriously NCAA seed deciders? Weren't they like 30-3 this season??????

Good luck BYU and Utah State!!!!!!!

I hope we get to say this

Day 17 - worst day ever

2011-03-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

I got really sick on Tuesday. Really sick. I had to leave work early. It was just a bad day.

I even missed Zumba. Grrrr.

I really have nothing to report food wise. I just didn't eat much today.

Sorry, this post is lame.

Day 16 - trying to channel the IMC cafeteria

2011-03-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

One thing I loved about the cafeteria at Intermountain Medical Center when I used to work there was the grill. They made the best grilled zucchini and carrots. Amazing, and so simple. I loved eating there on night shifts.

Can you imagine eating grilled zucchini and carrots at 3:30 am? I can. Mmmmmm.

(kind of like this but no breading)

I have been trying to channel the IMC grill in a way. I have been baking my zucchini and carrots (not baby carrots, the big kind) in the oven.

Can I just say that baking veggies is so easy and so good?

Can you tell I have never really been a chef?

If you cook the carrots a little longer than they get caramelized I guess and are yummy and sweet. Mitch even asked my if I put sugar on them or something. Nope, just olive oil, salt, and pepper.

I also made butternut squash soup this weekend. Yummy.

Speaking of Intermountain Medical Center, I kind of miss it. I know that is weird to say. There are times when I hated it. No, loathed that place. I guess it just kind of felt like home to me. Especially the view of the mountains from the rooms on facing east.

I guess Intermountain Healthcare just feels like home to me. I worked at UVRMC in Provo, LDS hospital and Intermountain Medical Center. Also, I did clinicals for nursing school at Primary's and other smaller places of IHC. Lastly, I did volunteer at LDS hospital for 4 (? I think it was 4) summers in junior high and high school.

Isn't that sick to say that hospitals feel like home to me?

One last thing. People have told me good job with all this and I really appreciate it. No matter what the drive there are still times when it is hard. Like today. It is just one of those times where I was craving food. I saw a Cold Stone commercial and seriously was salivating. Yes, salivating. I actually haven't had ice cream for 4 months or so for some odd reason. Even before no gluten and the paleo experiment I just kind of haven't felt like it. Today was a major exception. I wanted to eat it sooo bad! Luckily, there aren't any all that close to us. Major disaster averted.

Also, people keep asking me about weight loss. You know, it is kind of a weird thing. I know going on this Paleo "diet" seems like I am doing it for weight loss. The weight loss would be a resulting bonus and would actually improve my symptoms. So, yes I am doing it for weight loss in a way. But, I am really doing this to get other things in check first. It is hard to explain. Hopefully you understand what I mean.

Day 15 - The rabbits save the daylight savings day!!

2011-03-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

I hate daylight savings!

I think I have mentioned this before but we have "rabbits" above us. That is what we call them. When they first moved in they were rabbits in heat. At three in the morning with ear plugs in and after taking nyquil they woke me up. I said to Mitch, is that their dog? He said, no. It is her. For an hour it lasted. I finally banged on the ceiling. I then had to talk to the apartment manager the next day. Awesome.

Then, they decided to go the "cockfighting" route for a few weeks. Again at three in the morning we were woken up to a really loud "cockfight." Oh you know, screaming, throwing things, stomping, F-bomb this, F-bomb that. After an hour we had to call the cops. Awesome.
(Four cops came by the way).

Well, their drama finally came in handy. I did in fact change my alarm for daylight savings but I must have turned it off. Well, the "rabbits" came back and luckily woke me up for church.

Thanks "rabbits!" I never thought I would be happy awakening to her in the morning!

On to Paleo. I made sweet potato fries!!

Ask Mitch, they were delish!!!!

Day 12, 13, 14 - Crap! I am behind!

2011-03-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry for my slackerness. Mitch's family has been in town and I just didn't make time to post.

I am trying to think of anything new I made. Hmmmmm. I made salmon one night and it was good. I am still sticking to Paleo so that is all that matters. Even eating out. It is getting easier.

I will have to post pics. We went to the Grand Ole Opry on Friday night and saw Josh Turner and . . . . . Kenny Rogers. So good! Though, Kenny looks well, weird. Too much plastic surgery.

I will update more soon. I promise.

Look forward to the rabbits are back!!

Oh, and I made sweet potato fries.Yummy!

Day 11 - Zucchini intead of pasta?

2011-03-10T20:45:00.000-08:00

I got an idea from a friend to try Paleo lasagna. Instead of noodles you use zucchini. Weird right? Also, you don't use cheese.

So, instead of cheese I used almond meal.

I know you are thinking, weird. But it was really good! I mean seriously good. Though, I do love zucchini so if you don't like zucchini you wouldn't like it.

One thing I didn't think through was girl scout cookies. I freakin' love thin mints. I say freakin' too much. They started selling them right as I was getting started with all this. I have been sad about not being able to eat them. It really has been the hardest thing for me.

Well, I have been craving Cafe Rio (I have been craving it since like August actually) but I can't get it anyways.

Day 10 - No freakin' men allowed!!!

2011-03-09T19:21:00.001-08:00

Today I was still paying for eating at the "un"Loveless cafe on freakin' Sunday.

I got a new idea from someone at the gym. Sweet potatoes in smoothies. Um, yeah, it is really good. Sounds gross but you should try it. I am actually pretty obsessed with smoothies. I looooove them. I have one at least every other day. Instead of yogurt I use a little bit of coconut milk. Yum. Though I can usually only have 1/2 cup because I am only eating about 2 fruits a day.

This is my class. Hope these ladies don't mind that they are on my blog! :)

I am so annoyed. I go to zumba on Tuesday nights. It is awesome. Not awesome is that guys go to the class. And even worse they whistle and make cat calls sometimes. Seriously, it pisses me off. I love zumba because I get to shake my bootie and it is okay. I do not like it when a guy is right behind me and making cat calls. Now, I am not saying he is calling at me because let's be honest, my butt is kind of big and unattractive. But, it ticks me off that they think they can do this. Do they not notice that there are 3 guys in a class of over 100 women? (Yes, there are usually over a hundred in this class!) Do they not get that they shouldn't be in this class?!

No freakin' men allowed!

Well, unless they are gay. Because then they won't be making cat calls and most likely can shake their booties like the rest of the women.

*Look forward to tomorrow, I made Paleo lasagna. So yummy! Oh, and I can't eat girl scout cookies*

Day 9 - OMG, I almost died

2011-03-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

Guess what is not good for the Paleo diet? The "un"Loveless cafe. I was pretty sure all my choices were paleo approved when I went. Something must have been hidden.

I will just leave it at that.

I am definitely needing some new recipe ideas for breakfast. BoRiNg.

By the way, I don't eat eggs anymore. I am just experimenting again and besides I am sick of them anyways.

Also, I have decided I suck at cooking chicken. Will someone teach me??????

Now, why did I almost die? I started taking some new classes that involve olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, running, etc. The workouts are randomized and have variety. You never do the same thing every time you go.

Monday was my first day. Death.

By the way, did you notice I said olympic weightlifting? Funny huh! Can you imagine me lifting weights like that? Imagining myself doing that pretty much cracks me up.

I have not been able to move these last few days. Sooooooooooooooooooooo sore. Yep, that sore. Never been this sore in my life and I have been really sore before.

(So, apparently this is what you look like after doing this type of training for a while. Pretty sure this will be what I look like well, never. )

*I got this picture from http://www.pitchengine.com/progenex/2011-crossfit-games-redefines-femininity--a-return-to-elegance/117898. I steal pictures all of the time and probably should be giving credit where it is due*

The end for today.

Day 8 - the famous "un"Loveless cafe

2011-03-07T20:42:00.001-08:00

Ok, it's not really the "un"Loveless cafe. It is the Loveless cafe. It is a super famous southern-cooking cafe (which used to have a motel) on the outside of Nashville.

They used to have a biscuit lady but unfortunately she passed away last year . . . .

They are famous for these . . . their southern biscuits.

That I was not able to eat while we were at the "un"Loveless cafe. Ok, I think my mom's biscuits are the best but I was really hungry and they brought them out to the table before our dinners were served. Mean.

Ok, that was not actually the worst part of the day.

The worst part was that it was fast Sunday and what does our branch do on fast Sunday? Break the fast. There was so much good food. There was 2% paleo okay food. 1%- the salad we brought, the other 1% - someone made chicken.

There were dishes upon dishes of amazing food and desserts and I came back to the table with a salad and piece of chicken. Awesome. No, actually worst (hardest) day yet, ever.

Here is a math equation for you.

Mormon food culture ≠ Paleo. Boooooooooo.

Day 7 - the Petersons come to visit and a skype baby shower!

2011-03-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

(I have been using her website a lot for cooking ideas. It is great!)

Day 7

One thing I am struggling with is not eating enough. I honestly need to eat another meal because I am constantly hungry. Not the I have a craving hungry but my stomach growls.

Changes I have noticed:

Rare G.I. issues (TMI, I know)

Little sugar cravings (Friday being a MaJoR exception)

My skin issues came back within only a day or two after getting off my medication, but they are now subsiding again

No more orange tongue! (That was due to my medication though)

Poundage

Now, to be honest, I am not necessarily convinced of the Paleo diet. I am just experimenting with it. I am trying to find what is best for me. Being on the Paleo diet I have been eating way more veggies and no refined sugars, breads, desserts, etc. So, whether it is the Paleo diet or just eating more whole foods, I am not sure. Either way, it is working thus far.

The Petersons come to visit! Mitch's fam is in town this week to hang out with us! Ok, more like Mitch because he has spring break and I am a workin' woman. But, it is still going to be fun!

Also, it was my sister's baby shower on Saturday afternoon! I was able to attend via skype. Once again, I love technology!!! It was so fun to "see" everyone and her preggo belly! Last time I saw her she only had a little, itty bitty bump. I have seen her progress pictures over the last few months but they just didn't compare to "seeing" her. Her preggo belly is so cute! Major basketball bump. I am so excited for SVS to come!

Day 6 - meatballs part deux

2011-03-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

Literally, I have been thinking of making meatballs all. day. long.

I am sick, I know. I think about the food too much.

I use almond flour in them instead of breading. They are delicious!

Today I was working with a patient and she kept telling me her heel hurt. So, I looked at it. There was a pill stuck on the bottom that I swear had become part of her foot. I laughed and she laughed. She said, "no wonder my foot was hurting the last few days!"

It is times like those when being a nurse is definitely full of humor (Not humour. I am too funny).

"Ouch nurse! It hurts to walk again!"

"Oh, let me check your heel for a pill again."

Day 5 - Fish heads, fish heads

2011-03-03T21:14:00.000-08:00

Does anyone remember that song fish heads, fish heads, roly poly fish heads. Fish heads, fish heads, eat them up yum!? It is so weird but I remember it.

Anyways, we had salmon for dinner last night and it was so good. It was also extra stinky. Everyone at my office will agree as well as everyone in the break room at Mitch's school. Potent!

(This is an actual picture of how I prepared it . . . not)

One other problem I am having is that I am feeling hungry. I go to bed hungry and wake up hungry. I need to get in more protein during the day because I definitely pay for it at night.

Ok, I don't have the time right now but I have intended to write about the whole Brandon Davies and honor code situation. So, maybe I will post about it tomorrow.

By the way, I was so devastated after the game that I no joke slept crappy last night. I am so ridiculous! It's not like I even know everything about basketball. I just get way into BYU sports.

Day 4 - Saucy! And down in the dumps . . .

2011-03-02T20:08:00.000-08:00

While doing Paleo I have been forced to make my own sauces and dressings because everything mass produced out there just doesn't cut it. Are my dressings good? Probably not to anyone else but they are better than just plain olive oil!

Ok, why am I down in the dumps? I went to the endocrinologist today. It was actually for the most part pretty good. He did say something that, although I have heard it before, just really hit home to me today. I just kind of froze inside. I was almost in tears. I don't know why but it just happened that way today. So, I was hoping to come home and not be down in the dumps anymore but . . ..

BYU is down 16 at the half!!!!! Thanks a lot Brandon Davies!!!!!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Depression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

This is what I am currently feeling like,

Looks like a men's line of these shirts needs to be made,

ouch......

Day 3 - Mmmmeatballs!!!!

2011-03-01T18:17:00.000-08:00

Can I just say I am sick of water? Ugh. I just need to get over it but I can't.

I was craving meatballs all day today. So, what did I do for dinner? I made meatballs! No joke! Seriously. I did it. And I might just say so myself, they were delish. Mmmm.

I also ate spaghetti squash with the meatballs. Honestly, I couldn't tell it was squash. I honestly thought it was thin spaghetti. No really.

Mmmmmm.....

(Next time I would drain the spaghetti squash. It was a little runny but still yummy!)

Day 2 - Oops Mitch says it again

2011-02-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

Day 2 of Paleo.

I am drinking plain water these days. I have got to find an alternative. But, I don't want to use any artificial sweeteners.

I had to warm up my spaghetti squash and asparagus at the gas station today and the attendant looked at me like I was crazy. Oh, well. It was yummy.

News alert!

Our conversation while preparing dinner tonight.

Me: " Blah, blah."

Mitch: "Blah, blah."

Me: "Blah, blah."

Mitch: "Oh, guess what? I forgot to tell you. I lost 4 pounds!"

Me: "I hate you."

Thanks again Mitch!!

Day 13 - Becomes Day 1

2011-02-28T19:11:00.000-08:00

I started Paleo today.

I would say the hardest thing about today was the fact I was really craving salsa and chips and brownies. We had some gluten free brownies that we baked a few days ago that I still left around for Mitch to eat.

I wanted to eat some so bad after church!!! Gotta have a post-church sweet!

By the way, before I went to bed on Saturday night I might have indulged on some of those brownies. My stomach did not feel so good on Sunday morning. Oops.

Also, another difficult thing is I have to consider my work schedule. I am on the road a lot so I have to pack my lunch and snacks with me to have in my cooler in my car. I just have to plan ahead which is something I am not good at. This is the hardest thing about this new way of eating. I am soooo not good at planning ahead.

Goooo team Paleo!!!!!

(Oh, wait it is more like single Paleo. Mitch is not participating in Paleo . . . as of yet. The no dairy thing is no bueno for him).

Day 12- Let's do it like they do on the Discovery Channel

2011-02-28T18:53:00.001-08:00

Honestly, I have nothing special or any difficulties to note.

Moving on.

I did my usual Saturday routine. Woke up. Cleaned. Ate breakfast. Went to Yoga. Went to Zumba.

Then, I spent the afternoon looking up recipes because folks (ok, more like my 1 or 2 readers), I am going Paleo.

I am going cavewoman or so the Paleo aficionados say. I am going to be eating what Cavewomen/men ate. Meat, veggies (except no legumes), fruits, and some things like olive oil, coconut oil and some other stuff.

No peanuts.

No Dairy.

No gluten ( phew! already got that one under the belt!).

No added sugars.

Boring right?

Ok, so the title of my post kind of makes no sense but whenever I think of cavemen I think of that song. Don't ask. Let's do it like they do on the Discovery Channel!!

Day 11 - Just say no, to Papa John's

2011-02-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

Worst day yet and also the best day yet.

We babysat for some friends. Yes, that is what we do on a Friday night. What are we thinking?! We are going to be hating ourselves when we have kids. Though, it is okay. We love the little munchkins. They are so cute. Mitch was Spiderman for Halloween and I was the Wicked Witch of the West. So, that is what our names are. Spiderman and Witchie.

We were offered Papa John's pizza while we were there. OMG. Can I please tell you how much I almost just gave in? Especially since I was starving and I LOVE Papa John's pizza. But, I didn't. I just said, no!!!

(I heart Papa John's, so here is a heart-shaped picture of a Papa John's pizza)

Huge milestone for me. This is usually where I slowly fall off the wagon any time I have dieted before. But, this time was different. I am not doing this to lose weight. I am doing this with the mindset to feel better and feel healthy. I want to feel good again.

Seriously. I can't even explain to you how huge this is. In fact, it is unprecedented.

Here's to unprecedentedness!!!

Day 10 - COPS

2011-02-25T16:37:00.000-08:00

( Not this kind, the real kind)

Bad boy, bad boy what you gonna do when we come for you. But first let's talk gf.

Ok. Another really hard thing? Going to a sporting event and eating gf is really hard. In fact, you really can't. So, I was yet again really hungry when we went to a Preds hockey game. I really didn't enjoy myself but it wasn't so much the food it was the fatigue? Why was I so freakin' tired?!

We hate our neighbors above us. They suck.

We have had to complain about them before because they are like rabbits. Yes, we call them rabbits. When they first moved in they were always in heat. Even at 1 am after I had taken nyquil and put in ear plugs they still woke me up. So, we had to complain. That stopped during sleeping hours. Ugh.

But, then they decided to go the domestic violence route. We don't even know them (in fact we avoid them like the plague) and we know they have a toxic relationship.

There have been several nights after hearing the f-bomb dropped repeatedly that we just let things slide.

On Wednesday night or really Thursday morning . . . at 3 am . . . things got nasty. There was all sorts of stomping, throwing things, yelling, slamming doors, etc. Yep. We had to call the cops. Awesome.

Did I mention I hate our neighbors? They suck.

We then had to complain to the office manager again who really doesn't give a crap.

I hate our neighbors. They suck! Our lease ends in 3 months. I can't wait!

(To come, somehow I got behind a bit. I will catch up on those days. Oh, and I started Paleo)

Day 9 - home health difficulties

2011-02-25T16:12:00.000-08:00

So.... being gluten free hasn't been too bad overall except it is kind of hard with my job. I do home health and am always on the road. When I don't have enough time, no let me re-phrase that, when I don't make enough time to make a lunch or pack snacks I am just basically screwed. My old go-to places are no longer an option.

So, I kind of just end up starving. No bueno.

Speaking of nursing, I would like to introduce you to the life of a nurse

This is how the life of a nurse is portrayed . . .

(Really she is thinking if he puts his socks and shoes on any slower or takes his pills any slower I am going to kill myself!)

But it is really this . . . for reals

Why does it take so long for the nurse to get to the room and why does the nurse only spend about .3 seconds in the room? It is called Medicare (their requirements) and C.Y.A. Yes, cover your ass.

Or even one day this . . .

We hope for this . . .

Oh, and my name is this . . .

Day 8 - zumba!

2011-02-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

The zumba class that I go to on Tuesday nights is so packed! Usually, there is over 100 people. Yes, people. And yes, I said over 100. It was so dang hot! There are a few guys that go. I asked Mitch what he thought about going to zumba and he said H-no! Well, at least I tried.

Well, we ate something boring for dinner. Steak, potato, and salad. Boring but always good.

In other news, according to Mitch, my neck looks skinnier. Seriously Mitch? My neck?! Goodie, I not only have ridiculously skinny ankles but I also now have a skinnier neck. Thanks. ( I do have ridiculous ankles. I have the hardest time finding boots. My ankles are just ridiculous. The good news is I probably won't ever have to deal with the sorrow of cankles)

Next time just don't even say anything.

Day 7 - to Paleo or not to Paleo?

2011-02-22T18:31:00.000-08:00

Nothin' special today really. Oh, we tried the gluten-free mac and cheese. Eh, so so. Though, I think it was my fault. I think I added too much milk. Did I mention I am a bad cook?

On to Paleo diet. I know, if you read about it on Wiki you are thinking, what?? But hear me out. The reason I want to maybe try a 30-day challenge is because it is basically void of common food allergens such as: gluten, dairy, peanuts, etc. It is a possibility, in fact most likely, that I have food intolerances or food allergies causing my "issues." I know you are probably thinking, she has food allergies? I have never seen her have problems. But, it is possible that I do. Something my body doesn't like is causing me to have problems. In fact, crazy as it sounds it could all be autoimmune related. I have been doing a lot of research. "They" (the experts) are not exactly sure what causes the "issues" but there is much supporting evidence that it is autoimmune and causes inflammation.

Long story short, I think I am going to go Paleo for the 30-day challenge. I love meat, I love veggies and fruits. Though, I am sure going to miss my cheese!!!!!! And, sadly, I can't eat my natural peanut butter on Paleo. *tear* Oh, and sauces. I never quite realized how much I use sauces.

Going Paleo reminds of me of being in Europe. They suck at salad dressings!! I remember anywhere we would go they would only put olive oil on their salads. Yuck! But, that is going to be me. Now it is, mmmmmm. *cringe*

30 days is not that long, right? I mean if after 30 days I don't feel better I can just try something else. I can do it. 30 days. I need my own Paleo mantra.

Now, I just need to convince Mitchie. You would think all-you-can-eat meat would be enticing . . . boy was I wrong.

Day 6 - Paninis . . . mmmmm

2011-02-22T18:13:00.000-08:00

On the menu today, turkey paninis. They consisted of rice bread, smoked turkey, provolone, spicy mustard (yes, gluten free. We made sure), and avocado. OMG. Sooo good!

Then, we had this for dinner.

(Mitch's plate, not mine. I didn't remember that I liked bratwurst so I only had one. I should have had two)

Bratwurst. Mitch just had to have them. But, I gotta admit, they were really good! I swear we haven't had a bratwurst since Germany. I miss Germany. I have been itching to go back :(((

Too bad we couldn't have brötchen with it right Dad? (Major family inside joke. Did you all know my Dad is quite possibly the funniest person alive?)

Day 5 - stayin' alive

2011-02-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

Stayin alive.

That was the best thing I could come up with.

But, no seriously, I am stayin' alive. I am actually not struggling with this whole gluten free thing. I actually think it is because I don't have to stay off carbs completely. In the end though, I know I am going to have to get off carbs which I am dreading at this time. But, I think doing gluten free is going to be a good transition for me because at the end of the 30 days I will have completely off some of my usual problem foods for 30 days.

Also, I liked going to the grocery story yesterday. That was a first. I hate going to the grocery store. It usually stresses me out to think of all the planning of things I can't have. But, being GF gives me a purpose so it was okay.

One of my favorite survival food combos is apples and peanut butter. Natural peanut butter. The kind that says, ingredients: peanuts. I started eating the pb a few months ago and have not gone back to the other. I love natural peanut butter. So, that has been good for the GF diet.

Well, look forward (because I know you are all reading all these posts, right) to my post tomorrow because we have gf paninis on the menu!

Day 4 - I love technology

2011-02-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

Day 4

Nothing really too fancy about today. Oh, I know. I love technology!! I was able to listen to a podcast on my phone about GF and the "issues" stuff will I was driving to see my home health patients. Seriously how amazing is that? Kip was right!

We ate of the gluten free menu when we went out to eat. It really wasn't hard because I got a steak and veggies. So, it would have been GF anyways.

Sorry, kind of a boring post.

Oh, and we watched The Office episode we missed on Thursday. Threat Level Midnight. Seriously what is The Office going to do without Michael Scott?

Day 3 - Call me the awkward Queen

2011-02-17T21:03:00.000-08:00

I had to make a quick run to the grocery store tonight and I was really hungry. I swear to you that the croissants and wheat bread were chanting my name. But, I pressed on to my destination. Fruit. Mmmmm.

On a strange side note. I have been clogging with a team I found near Nashville (ok, actually it is an hour away. So, not really near). They are being kind of weird and exclusive. They basically said I couldn't clog with one of the teams because I had to work my way onto the team. I immediately felt like I was like 10. Um, I have been clogging since I was around 9. Uhhhh, I already know how to clog. Ummm, I felt super awkward. Seriously, the team is so set that you can't add one more person? I don't care if I am in the back row. I am not there for the spotlight. I am just doing it for fun. I seriously always get into weird situations like this. It was just weird. No other way to describe it. Isn't dance supposed to be for fun? Weird, weird, weird.

Here is another perfect example. One time while I was attending BYU, I was asked to give a prayer at a fireside in Draper because some of the speakers were scholarship donors in the Salt Lake chapter BYU alumni of which I was a recipient. Anyways, I told them that I would be there and they said I would be giving the opening prayer. I was told the time to be there. Yadee, yadee Mitch and I arrive and are seated before they start the fireside. They start the fireside and I am about to get up to say the prayer. Well, someone else gets up and says the prayer. It was so weird. I was like did they ask me to say the prayer? Did I imagine it? No, I didn't imagine it. They specifically called me and asked me. They actually called me several weeks beforehand and then confirmed it a few days before the fireside date. I drove out to Draper for nothing? I was so confused. Weird. Weird. Weird. No joke, I was so perplexed and a little mad I just left. I am so unspiritual. Let the awkwardness continue.

Yes, I seriously have weird situations like this happen to me all of the time. So, it makes me wonder. Am I awkward and weird??? Do I give off that vibe that I command awkward situations? I must.

Day 2 - I really wanted a wheat bagel

2011-02-16T20:18:00.000-08:00

Day 2

I guess it is going okay. My lunch got messed up as I got held up at work. As usual. So, I didn't eat lunch. But, I was so busy that I didn't notice until....

One of my patients that I see on a regular basis always gives me food. Her mom somehow gets leftover or "old" food from Panera. Mostly breads, pastries, and bagels. I was dying. Not only was I so hungry but I love Panera's wheat bagels. Oh well. I just had to remind myself. GF. GF.

Today I made the best smoothie ever for breakfast. I always wanted to work at Zuka. I kind of fulfilled my dream today :)

For the Love of Megs....Big gluten free challenge 2011

2011-02-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

Day 1

A few years ago my family did a "Big Ride '09" where we all rode our bikes on the Jordan River trail for a while. It really wasn't all that long (compared to the Lotoja that's for sure!) but it was a decent distance. Anyways, so we always reference to the "Big Ride '09."

For the Love of Megs we have the "Big gluten free challenge 2011" or Big GF challenge '11. I guess. We are now officially GF as of today. My family is participating. We were going to start on Valentine's day for the love of Megs (myself, we all know Mitch doesn't write on this thing). We decided with the V-day dinners and treats it was not a good day.

Why for the Love of Megs do you ask? It is an experiment to see if it will help my issues. Yes, I have "issues." I found out about my "issues" about a year ago and have been struggling off an on. Things have recently been getting worse within the last few months so I was talking to my mom and sis the other day by e-mail and Miranda suggested the GF month. I have been trying to get myself to do it for a while but I just don't have the discipline. So, when she suggested we do it as a family it made it sound a little easier.

Here is a glimpse into my "issues." Have you ever tried to lose weight? Dumb question. I am sure we all have. Well, I think I have you beat. Here is an example. For all of last January I ate really healthy and exercised for 2 hours a day. End result? I gained 5 pounds. Not cool body, not cool. Great for the self-esteem. Have you ever had a moment where you were at your heaviest and feel totally gross? Yeah, welcome to my world. Ok, enough of the negativity. That just gives you a glimpse. I have many other unpleasant symptoms but that is one of the worst. As my sis and I have discussed, it is a pos, pia, and sob.

I honestly have no idea if it is going to help. But, it really won't hurt. Most sweets, breads, pastas, sauces, etc. have gluten in them so it will make me eat a lot more whole foods which is good.

Any GF food suggestions are welcome!

the iPhone

2011-02-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

has arrived.....

Mitch has been waiting to get this phone on Verizon. He didn't think it would come this soon. He was on cloud nine when he found out it was coming on Verizon. He has been using a really crappy phone until now......

I no longer have a husband.

Goodbye Coach Sloan... the Jazz just won't be the same

2011-02-10T15:36:00.000-08:00

Goodbye Coach Sloan :( The Jazz just won't be the same without you. The glory days are officially gone. Ok, the had been gone for a while without Stockton, Malone, Hornacek, and the late Larry Miller (and in my opinion Bryon Russell because I was pretty much in love with him back then). But now, they are really gone.

I will have to admit I am a little put out by D-Will. When we met him in Memphis he was well, kind of a jerk. Ok, he did just lose to the Memphis Grizzlies and we were technically in an area outside where they usually meet fans. But it still kind of irked me. As we were leaving area the last person to come through the door was Jerry Sloan. We were really surprised because we thought he was already on the bus. He was so nice and just awesome. Even though his team had just lost. I know it is different losing as a player rather than a coach. It just seemed that Coach Sloan really cared about the fans and he even thanked us for driving all that way to come to the game which D-Will did not.

Anyways, I just really love Coach Sloan. Sad, sad day.

Good luck D-Will.

Walking in a winter wonderland ... er Tennessee

2011-02-09T16:25:00.000-08:00

I bet you thought Tennessee had a lot of snow right??

It keeps snowing here like crazy!!!

Best part? It is beautiful with all the trees!

Worst part? People here are ridiculous!

*Tennessee school system is the most unproductive school system. School gets canceled every time there is even a forecast of snow. Seriously. One time it ended up not even snowing at all and there was no school. I should have been a school teacher!

* People freak out and stock up on bread, milk and eggs at the grocery story. So, they must think that survival food is french toast.

*People do not know how to drive in snow here! It drives me nuts!!! Don't slam on the brakes dummies!

*The news does not help! They freak people out like crazy if there is even an inch predicted. It is so annoying! I can't even count how many cars I see stuck on the side of the road after snow falls.

No, the worst part is we have actually had real powder and I can't go skiing. I have been itching to go skiing so bad!!

It's fun to stay at the YMCA!

2011-02-05T22:57:00.000-08:00

Everyone do the dance. You know you want to. Y-M-C-A!!! We are oh so cool these days. We go the "Y" as everyone here says it. I never really knew much of what the YMCA offered until we moved here. It is actually a really awesome gym. The other gym we went to didn't have group classes so I decided to go the the "Y" instead. I now do a lot of zumba. Love it! Man I sweat! We also go to the group cycle classes. We feel so cool now that we go the YMCA!

Mitch dresses as a cop and I dress like and Indian. Whenever we enter the building we do the dance and sing the song, "It's fun to stay at the YMCA!"

Ok, not really. We just think it.

By the way... never realized how much innuendo there was to that song. I am so oblivious as usual! Kind of like how I just really listened to the words of "I like big butts" the other day. I have known the words for years but never actually really listened to them. No wonder my mom never liked that song!

The Bachelor crazy

2011-02-03T22:43:00.001-08:00

Ok, so I don't watch The Bachelor religiously or even at all really but for some reason I know who the contestants are. I'll admit, I love drama. Or as Andy on The Office says, "I hate drama!"

So, my question to all you Bach fans, who is crazier? Vienna or Michelle?

Ha! Ha! Love the crazies!!!

Attempting to catch up . . . Garth Brooks!!!!

2011-01-24T14:15:00.000-08:00

One of the benefits of living in Nashville is that country stars love to give benefit concerts.

Case in point, Garth Brooks. When that little thing called the flood came around in May it devastated a lot of Nashville and that devastation still remains. So, Garth decided to give a benefit concert. Well, because of the demand he ended up giving 9 concerts. Yes, 9. The tickets were only $25. We ended up not buying any because we had already spent so much money on concerts recently (we went to Michael Buble just a few weeks before. I still need to post on that too).

Luckily, some friends had some tickets they couldn't use so they gave them to us. Yes!!! Matt and Heidi, you are the bomb! I was so excited when Mitch told me.

Here are the great pictures. Ok, not great. They are from my phone and we were in the boonies. Nonetheless, it was still amazing. Garth is an amazing performer and entertainer. AMAZING.

I took many more pictures but here are a few. I am also trying to get a video posted of "The Thunder Rolls" that he sang but it is being very slow. If I do ever get it posted you must listen. Awesome!

This picture of the crowd just doesn't do it justice. The amount of people outside the stadium was unreal!

Oh, and Trisha Yearwood sang too! She's in love with the boy!

AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com

2011-01-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

I love this website. When I am having a bad day and I look at these pictures my day turns into a good one.

This is one of the best pictures I have ever seen on this website! So funny!!!

AwkwardFamilyPhotos.com

Starstruck in Memphis!

2011-01-09T16:38:00.000-08:00

This weekend Meg and I decided on a whim to go see the Jazz play the Grizzlies in Memphis on Friday night. Meg arranged her schedule to be home a few hours early so that we could make it to Memphis by 7 pm. Before we left we bought "el cheapo" seats on ticketmaster. We did not ever sit in our assigned seats being that the FedEx Forum was probably only at half capacity, if that. The first half we spent in the first row of the upper bowl where we scouted out where we would move to at half-time. We noticed that 3 rows behind the Jazz bench there were only two people sitting in the entire row. We were nervous (mainly I was nervous) to make the switch as there was a guest services worker we would have to get past. At half-time we made our way down to the 3rd row and made it past the guest services worker but to our surprise right as we were less than five feet away from the 3rd row two middle-aged guys sat down in the exact seats we were eying we sat right next to them. I was still nervous about it when the guy sitting next to Meg asked if we had moved down that I don't think I even heard the question he asked us. To our surprise they had moved all the way down from "el cheapo" section too. They were both super nice to us even when we told them we were Jazz fans.

The guy next to Meg talked her off while I was busily taking pictures of the Jazz players from our new vantage point. The sad part was that the Jazz lost! After the game our two new friends gave us all sorts of ideas of places to see and eat at in Memphis. They convinced to go to the area where the Grizzlies players come out of their locker room. While we were waiting there Andrei Kirilenko walked past us. We hesitated too much to chase after him but one of our new friends made his way after AK. AK had got on the team bus but we could see where he was sitting and asked him with gestures if we could take a picture with him. Andrei was awesome and got off the bus and let us take a picture with him. Our new friends left us but we decided to stick it out and see if we could get a picture with D-Will. About five minutes later Derron walk out making his way to the bus. Although reluctant we were able to convince him to get in a picture with us. Now for the best part. We were just about to the door to exit the parking garage and were not even 10 feet away from the door when it swung open. To our surprise it was coach Sloan. Megann blurted out in excitement "Jerry Sloan!" Coach Sloan then responded, "What did I do?" He was super nice and we told him how we are Jazz fans and that we drove from Nashville to come see them play. Megann and I both were on cloud nine; we go to met AK, D-Will, and Coach Sloan.

The next day we went to Graceland even with the potential of huge crowds as it would be the exact day of Elvis' birthday. A funny sidenote: Edison Pena, the Chilean miner who ran in and completed the NYC marathon less than a month after being rescued was recognized at the Grizzlies game. He also got a private tour of Graceland the day before Elvis' b-day. The crowds were almost non-existent. It was amazing seeing the huge number of gold and platinum records on display. We also got to see tons of his stage and movie costumes, as well as automobiles (the famous pink Cadillac), airplanes, and even his tombstone. Elvis lived larger than life but also worked very hard for everything he got. All in all it was a fantastic weekend.

America's worst cooks . . .

2010-12-08T17:29:00.000-08:00

Me.

"AMERICA'S WORST COOKS GET RESCUED BY JESSICA SEINFELD"

I should have been on this show yesterday. I am seriously the worst cook. No, let me phrase it more correctly. I HATE cooking. Seriously. I hate it. I always have. I only like to cook when I know I have nothing else to do. When I have nothing else to do I actually find it fun. Any other time it just stresses me out. Whenever I read magazines or watch the occasional Martha Stewart episode I think, "Oh, I could do that. That looks fun!" But, that is as far as it gets.

What I should be making . . .

What I actually make . . .

I may even get crazy and make this . . .

There was a girl on the show that says that when ever people her invite her to a party they ask her to bring the lettuce. That is so me. I am the lettuce girl!

Here's to my specialty, Lettuce!

Long awaited Lotoja post . . . Lotoja Loonies

2010-10-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

LOTOJA 2010

WARNING: This is the longest post I have ever written. No joke. So, if you don't feel like reading just look at the pics, the summary at the beginning, and highlights of each leg :) I am mostly doing a detailed post for our memory and for others considering this race.

(To peak your interest here is a photo of Shawn Bradley. Yep, he did the Lotoja. Freak he is tall! I totally finished and he didn't, he he).

(This is all coming from Megann's point of view because we all know Mitch doesn't really write on this blog)

First and foremost, Lotoja was awesome! It was an amazing experience! Here are the main things we learned.

1- Plan on riding 206 miles by yourself. Hopefully, you won't have to but it will prepare your mindset just in case.

2- Use a good light if you plan on riding in the dark. *sigh*

3- Although, you might not be a pro it is wise to wear some of the clothing items that the pros wear. Just trust us.

4- TITS. Not what you usually think of when you hear that phrase. Time In The Saddle.

5- Bring extras.

6- Eat and hydrate. Eat real food.

7- Go to the bathroom before you ride.

On to the story . . .

It all started about 6 years ago. When we were dating we did a lot of mountain biking (which I suck at but that is another story). Mitch had said something about a 206-mile bike ride called the Lotoja and I couldn't stop thinking about it. I told myself I could never do it but I deep down inside always wanted to ride. Then, over the years Mitch talked about getting a road bike. So, we decided to save and get road bikes. We would save and then things would come up and we would have to use the money . . . blah, blah, blah. Then last summer I did a lot of riding on my mountain bike when I didn't have a job and we brought up the subject of riding in the Lotoja again and purchasing the expensive road bikes. Sooo, once I actually had a job we saved more diligently. We especially wanted to do it so that we could raise money for cancer research through the Hometown Heroes program at Huntsman to support family members that have had cancer and to support my mom.

Then, we trained for months and months and months. We went to spin classes and rode on the trails behind our apartment complex. We are lucky to have a greenway trail right behind us. Also, there is this great non-commercial road that goes from Nashville to Natchez, MS. It is 444 miles and is called Natchez Trace. The beginning is very hard. It is gorgeous too!

This summer was brutal. It was the third hottest and most humid summer that has been recorded in Nashville. Great. I DO NOT do well in heat. I would much rather ride in freezing weather than heat. Seriously, I swear I don't sweat correctly. Oh, and then there was this little thing called a flood that messed up the trails for a while.

And then the Lotoja came . . .

We drove to SLC. WAY too expensive to fly our bikes and ourselves.

I spent the next few days really excited and really nervous. Can I really do this????

Day of Lotoja.

We woke up super, duper early in order to get ourselves ready and to start with the first pack at 5:45 because we knew we would need every second in order to complete the race on time.
This is when the tone of our race was set. We are driving to Logan and really have to go to the bathroom. Because you have to get it all out before you ride. Well, Mitch had to stop and go on the side of the road before we got there. We then planned to go at some port-a-potties when we got there.

Crap. None in site. Crap. No really.

Mad rush of people.

Race is about to start.

We hurry to get in line.

We missed the 5:45 time so we started at the 5:48 time.

(Getting ready for the race)

1st leg- Logan to Preston. Dropped water bottles and I fall.

We start at the 5:48 time but really more like 5:50 because we were at the back of the pack. Dang, we have already lost 5 minutes. Already we are wishing we had better lights. Luckily, there are plenty of people around us so it is okay. About 10 miles in it is mainly just us so it gets dark. I go to grab one of my water bottles take a swig and try to put it back into the holder. It falls on the ground! I can't see though so I just say oh well. The tone of race continues. Then about 5-10 miles later Mitch does the same thing!!! We both have never done this before. It just totally messes us up. It was a bit lighter so he stops to actually pick up his water bottle. Yeah, I didn't know he was going to stop so I am drafting behind him and all of the sudden, *crash*! I hit him and fall. The race is already starting out bad, bad, bad. I say a few choice words, we squabble a bit, he picks up the bottle in the midst of the fog and we get back on our bikes.

Did I mention the fog? It was very difficult to see. But, kind of cool. Speaking of cool, it was freezing!!!! Mitch's dad kept asking if we wanted to use foot covers to cover our shoes while riding. I declined thinking that only pros should wear them. I was sooo wrong!!! I could not feel my toes because my shoes are pretty well ventilated. It took about 6 hours for them to finally thaw completely. No joke.

Finally, a bathroom. From then until Preston it was smooth sailing. But, then we had to go to the bathroom again when we got there. So, we lost a lot of time with all the mishaps. Not good for us and our already crunched timetable.

(Here is a picture of me and my buddy. Little did I know that we would become forever puking friends. I looked pretty retarded here. Why the face?)

2nd leg- Preston to Montpelier, Mile 34. Mitch's bike breaks, I cry a lot. We are separated.

So, we are on the way to Montpelier knowing that ahead of us is the first tough climb. Things are going well for several miles and just as we can start to feel some climbing . . . Clink, clank, clink, explode. Mitch's rear derailleur is having issues. We are in a big pack and everyone is saying, oh! You know it is bad. I am behind Mitch. We stop and discover his bike can't be fixed. This was at mile 43. Mile freakin' 43! So, we wave the neutral support vehicle down because Mitch's cell isn't getting service (I forgot mine). They try and try to get a hold of Mitch's parents because luckily Mitch's Dad brought his bike just in case. No luck. We wait. Mitch is trying to convince me to just go ahead. I say no. We wait and wait . . . for about 30-40 minutes. Mitch finally convinces me to go.

I am by myself. We didn't plan this! We were going to draft! We had been training like this for months and months!

I cry. I cry more. Good thing I am wearing sunglasses. But, people are so great. Whenever people see my hometown heroes jersey (as they of course pass me) they cheer me on. If it wasn't for other people cheering me on and knowing that people had donated to cancer research for me to do the race I wouldn't have kept going. Then I see a port-a-potty. I had to stop. I throw up. I was that nervous to do it by myself.

I then get it in a good groove and it is all a blur. Somehow I am doing really well with the altitude and the big climbs. (Remember we live in Nashville. Altitude doesn't exist here). Don't get me wrong, it was hard, but somehow I was doing it. I get to feed zone two hoping to have someone radio to check if Mitch had been picked up or kept going. Then, Miranda and Pete! Seriously! It made my day! People I know! I wasn't hearing back about Mitch so they encourage me to keep going and they would let him know I was going to keep going to Montpelier. The other best part about that stop was the peaches. Yummy!

I make it to the top and then fly down the long hill. It was awesome. I then find a guy to draft with and we trade off and on. Then, we catch up to a group. Nice, finally I am not doing it all alone. I was not planning on doing it all alone. Thanks guy with the Alaska jersey.

I see a sign that says only 126 more miles to go. Um, rude!!!

Ahhh, Montpelier. Familiar faces.

3rd leg- Montpelier to Afton, mile 80. Geneva Summit, puking, King/Queen of the mountain, flying at 50 miles/hour.

I make it to Montpelier and both our families are there. Thank you so much to everyone for supporting us. I hurry and pick up my goodies and they tell me that Mitch is about 30 minutes behind me. So, I leave. The first 5-10 miles were very difficult because again, I was all alone. There was one group that I saw and they offered to let me come with them but they were going just a little too fast for my liking and I just didn't want to wear myself out because I decided that out of the two of us I was going to be the one to finish. I couldn't let everyone down, and I told myself from the very beginning that I was going to finish. So, I kept going. It was windy. It was kind of hard. I was getting nervous again. Then, I am climbing and I just know that this is the beginning of Geneva Summit. I see a port-a-potty again and what do I do? I throw up again. My nerves were definitely getting to me.

I kept going and it is really hard. I mean really hard. I am seriously only going 5-6 miles/hour. People are passing me. But, I don't care. I keep my pace. I make it. Now, I am flying down. It feels so good. Then, I am on a fairly flat area and I try to draft off a guy. He speeds up and I can't draft anymore. Then, he slows down and I pass him. This went on for forever it seems. I kept going the same speed and he just couldn't decide! I wanted to yell at him and tell him that if he would just be consistent we could draft and go faster but whatever. His ego was too big. Then, at some point I see our families and they are cheering me on. I was really struggling up to this point. I wasn't tired I just was I guess, nervous again. They cheer me on and I cry a little because I am so grateful that they are being so supportive. I mean, I am not a pro, not even close. I am probably going to finish last and they are still being supportive. They also tell me that Mitch is 20-25 minutes behind me. I am a bit elated because I think just maybe he will catch up to me and we can finish this race together!

I get re-energized. Oh, if I remember right there was another port-a-potty that I throw up at. Dang nerves. And I'm off again. I ride for a while and see Miranda and Pete again. They know just when to cheer me on. I am headed up King/Queen of the Mountain. Seriously, at one point I was going 4.5 miles/hour. Kind of pathetic but I had a good cadence going so it was okay. I am going to make it to the top. A girl in pink passes me. I am like what the heck. It motivated me to keep going. I make it to the top, supporters are cheering. Then, I am flying. I am flying down the hill at 50 miles/hr. The fastest I have ever gone is 47 miles/hr. I am feeling giddy and scared at the same time. I am thinking this is awesome but at the same time I could fly off the upcoming overpass and no one would know I was down there. I also think about getting a flat. Luckily, I make it okay. I pass the pink girl. Kind of made me happy. So, I guess I am good at down-hills? Ha! Then, we draft off each other. We had a good tail-wind and we were flying. It was great. Breathtaking actually. The weather on this day was perfect. There wasn't a cloud and it was just beautiful. It did seem like it took a while to get to Afton though. I don't know why. As we are almost there the girl gets off at the relay area. Oops I was drafting with a relay rider. No wonder she passed me on the climb. She had way more energy than me!!

4th leg- Afton to Alpine, mile 125. A blur and hitting the Wall.

This was all a blur. I drank a Coke before setting off. I have never liked Coke so much in my life. I meant to open it up before we put them in the cooler. I should have. Carbonated Coke kind of played a number on my stomach while riding but it sure gave me energy. Like I said, this was all a blur. I just rode my heart out. Thanks for the thumbs up Miranda. I got really tired about 25 miles before Alpine. Seriously, I don't know how I pushed through but I did. There was a group (of guys I might add) that I was riding on and off with. We all were kind of hitting a huge wall but then all of the sudden we were going at a smooth pace. I look at the time and I realize I am getting close and that I am going to make it to Alpine before the cut-off time. Exciting!

I ride into Alpine and cross the line before I get my food.

Mitch is close behind me but I wasn't sure how far out so I just decide to go. Only 47 more miles!

5th leg Alpine to Jackson Hole, Teton Village, mile 159. Ticked, ticked, ticked. I call it the Lotoja plus!

(Part of the support crew at Alpine)

I am feeling pretty good.

It is so gorgeous at this part. There is a river and beautiful mountain scenery. I am doing okay. I am alone but okay. I know at this point that the only way I can make it on time is if I go 20 miles/hr. Not happening. At this point I just want to finish. As I am going down a hill I hear cheering and I see a red truck. Our red truck! Mitch is inside. But, his bike is on the truck. What?? He tells me that his Dad's bike is killing him and he had to stop. I. was. so. mad. What the heck?! He couldn't finish with me!? I was ticked and he knew it. Sorry Mitch! So, he leaves. I cry out of frustration. Then, I just keep going.

There are only a few of us out there. I hear cheers here and there of "keep going!" I keep going. My chain falls off a few times. I just have to keep going. I know I am getting close but it just feels like forever. Everyone told me that once you can see the Tetons you still have about 15 miles to go. I am just hoping to see the Tetons. I forgot to tell you my bike computer wasn't working right so I had no idea what mile I was at. I know that the last feed zone is coming, Hoback Junction. Tricia Buck told me she would be there. I am seriously riding for Hoback. I see Tricia and it gives me some oomph to keep going. Thanks Tricia!! I am doing okay. There are a few stragglers out there besides me. One girl I was riding by gets a flat. Bummer! She was so close! I pass her and just keep going. I see the Tetons! It was gorgeous and so exciting to know I was getting close! I see a sign that says the turn for the Lotoja is coming up. I am gearing up and then all of the sudden a car comes up and says I have to keep going straight because once it gets dark it will be too hard to find the end if I turn. So, I keep going straight. I am pretty upset at this point. Ticked in fact. They can't do this to me! I just keep going. I turn on my light. Crap. It is really bad when there aren't other lights by me. I knew I should have purchased a better light!!!! Because it is so dark, I really can't go my normal speed. A. I have no idea where I am going and B. It is too dangerous to ride too fast. I was only going 12 miles/hr. This was the worst part of the race. I was fuming. I was so mad that Mitch had not checked on me. I was all by myself. I was seriously talking aloud. I was saying that I could be dead by the side of the road and no one would know. I was mad. I wanted to go faster but I couldn't. Too dangerous. Then, I ride, ride, ride. It was an eternity. At one point, I seriously contemplated stopping. I as so angry. My legs just kept going though. I then enter Teton Village area and there is a sign that says Teton Village 1o miles. 10 freakin' miles! I was so mad! But, I think the adrenaline from the anger kept me going. I had no idea where the end was I wasn't sure If I needed to keep going straight or turn left. Oh, earlier some stupid driver yells at me. I yell a not so polite word back. And . . . I might have given the finger. Anywhoo, luckily my Dad drives up to tell me where to go. I pass a biker ahead of me because he was making me go too slow. Then, I make it to the end!!! Wahoo! I actually did the Lotoja + because according to my bike computer I had hit the 206 miles and I know it wasn't working for several miles earlier in the race. The excitement only lasted a second because I soon chewed Mitch out for not coming to check on me or tell me how close I was. Again, sorry Mitch!

(The awesome Lotoja tat. I forgot to take a picture of mine)

So, after a novel of a post, there you have it. I finished! I didn't finish on time but oh well. I finished!!! It was amazing. I told myself that If I could do the Lotoja I could do anything. It is a month later and I have a couple of goals set and I am doubting myself. Have I already forgotten what I achieved?

Are we going to do it next year? Yes! Our goal is sub-12. It is a lofty goal but we are going to do it! We also have a few goals to do other races and a triathlon. Though, for the last month we have been doing not as intense biking. We needed a break. We have been mountain biking, camping, playing racquetball, and taking dance classes. It has been a nice break but I can tell I am getting pudgy! Time to hit the bike hard again.

Other lessons learned? TITS. We did a lot of time in the saddle and we were actually prepared. I was pretty pleased actually. But, we could have done even more. Put a new battery in your bike computer and heart-rate monitor strap. Drink flat coke. More sunscreen. Don't cry so much you baby!

One last and most important note. Thank you all for supporting us. Do you know that with your donations you are allowing cancer patients to be able to participate in clinical trials? They are often in the clinical trials as a last resort. You are allowing terminal cancer patients as well as future cancer patients to live longer. You never know, you could be a beneficiary of the treatments in clinical trials today.

(At the Hometown Heroes breakfast the day after the race)

Thank you Mitch for training with me. I am not as fast as you and you pushed me to do my best. Thank you!

Thank you Val for your awesome advice. Thank you to all our family members(Our Moms, Dads, siblings +Pete, and Grandma!), that came and supported us. Thank you Ash for the socks. Thank you family members and friends for your supportive words and donations.

(Thanks Mom and Grandma for the yummy food for our drive home!)

Until next year! LOTOJA 2011!!

(Us in Jackson. Love the antler arch! I had never been until Lotoja. What a cute place. I also think the Tetons are so pretty! I have a new love for Wyoming. Who knew!)

Church 101

2010-09-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

I need to re-take church 101. Apparently I crammed for the test and have now forgotten everything.

I am truly afraid that I am going to be stripped of my 9th grade Gordon B. Hinckley seminary award. I really hope Mr. Barrus is not reading this blog!!

Pretty sure it has been more than 4 months since I have done any sort of visiting teaching (Ok, actually six but I just didn't want to admit it. Crap. Now you all know).

I yet again forgot about the Relief Society broadcast last week.

I have a problem with sleeping in. I turn off my alarm clock unknowingly all of the time. Luckily, I have Mitch to help me out. Except on Sundays. He has early meetings. Therefore, last Sunday I slept through my alarm (woke up to beeping that had been going on for at least an hour) and then found myself outside the chapel a few minutes just after the sacrament ended. Great, I missed the most important part. (Give me some slack though, it actually takes more than the standard 1-minute drive to get to church in these parts).

I cannot decide what I want to read in the scriptures so I pretty much just read whatever . . . as in I have just been opening my scriptures to whatever page and reading whatever even though it may be in the middle of a chapter. Yeah, not getting much out of it. Especially when done lying down in bed (I am a Greek master though, just ask Erika).

Sometimes if we forget to read together and realize it as we are going to sleep . . . we each just quote our favorite scriptures. Nope, we don't even sit up or turn on the lights. That SO counts as reading together.

Mitch volunteers for everything whenever people in the branch need it. Me, not so much. In fact, I often discourage him so that he will spend time with me and not other people. Selfish, I know. I don't know why but it just ticks me off sometimes! I guess the motto "Charity Never Faileth" has not stuck so much in my brain. Seriously, who discourages someone from doing service? Honestly.

I have to admit something. Sometimes I can't stand to listen to church talks, especially Relief Society talks. The way they talk is so annoying sometimes. Why can't they just talk like they would in a normal conversation? Why all the cheesy intonations? Ok, I sound really negative here but you all know it is true!

Family Home Evening. What's that?

There are so many more things to list but there is just not enough time.

I have saved the best for last though . . .

Sometimes, I, uh, watch Jersey Shore on Sundays. (Yes, I just admitted that I watch Jersey Shore. And the worst part is I actually like the show).

There you have it. I need to re-take Church 101.

Glee- I heart Britney!

2010-09-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

I love Glee. It is such a weird show but I just love it.

I have been waiting all summer for the Britney Spears episode. Seriously. I am that lame.

If you love that show as much as I do I am sure you will agree that the best lines from Sue Silvester are that Britney Spears is a "genius pop culture provacateur" and "a gateway drug to every out-of-control impulse ever created." Oh, and during the assembly when she says that it is a "Britney Spears sex riot!" Seriously, I love Glee . . . and, um, I pretty much love Britney.

I realize this is kind of dumb post but I love Glee so much that I got home from work a half hour late into the show and I was pretty upset. As they say, I am a gLeek!

In other more important blogging news, I am going to make a Lotoja post but I just haven't gotten around to it. Stay tuned because it is going to be pretty good.

Bienvenido a Miami!

2010-08-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, for those of you who are curious, I did do the BJH "Miami" dance. Yes, I did. Ask Mitch, it was great.

So, my last post was a bust. Too busy. So I am now giving you the 5th anniversary post that surely you all have been waiting for.

Where did we go?? Miami!!

. . .We drove . . .

It was worth it though.

We stopped in St. Augustine along the way and stayed the night. It is so beautiful! It was founded in 1565. I loved seeing the rich history and the beautiful ocean. Love this place! We need to go back. We didn't get to stay there long enough. Because we drove and were therefore able to take our bikes, we were able to do a lot of biking. It was so fun to see the cities up close and ride in new places! Can't beat riding along the beach!

Then we went to this place . . .

(My sand clad feet and one of Mitch's.)

I pretty much am obsessed with the beach. No, not pretty much. I am obsessed. I need to live near a beach. I just can't get enough of it. I love swimming in the ocean, laying out, or taking walks on the beach. Yes, I love long walks on the beach.

(That is Mitch wearing a speedo. I swear.) This is really from my camera. Can you say gorgeous?!

We mostly stayed on the beach but we also did do a lot of walking around. I didn't take any pictures of the night life or the buildings. Oops. Yes, we did venture into the "night life." I do like to shake my bootie. We were a bit out of place but it was still fun. In fact, it was hilarious! Ha! Ha!

(You must click on the picture to enlarge them. The guy we took a picture of is priceless. Wicked outfit.)
(Because when you go to the beach you have to write in it and take a picture)

Happy Anniversary to us! Here's to even more years of (pretty much all) bliss!!

(Here we are in all our extra crispiness :)

5 years of wedded bliss!

2010-07-27T20:04:00.001-07:00

That's right, 5 years of wedded bliss on July 28th!!

I don't understand how some women can claim that it is 5 years of bliss. Seriously? Those women must not live with a man. I mean, hello! Men are just gross sometimes (Love you Mitchie!)! I mean because women are perfect.

But, wow. It has been 5 five years. What?!!??

It is so humid in Tennessee and it reminds me of our wedding reception. The water behind our reception line made it so humid! You can see how sweaty we were in our pictures.

I am going to continually update this post as I think of things that I remember or things that we have learned about each other:

*First and most important*

Mitch won the bagging contest at the grocery store and I won the spelling bee in school. Each of us would have liked to have won the other competition as well. It is a continued debate as to who is better.

My favorite part of BYU: Police Beat

2010-07-22T18:25:00.000-07:00

The absolute best part of my BYU experience was "Police Beat". For those of you unfamiliar, "Police Beat" is a section of the BYU newspaper.

I love "Police Beat". It is seriously so funny. I still read it. I just can't get enough.

Only at BYU would these things happen or even be reported. I also love the completely comical writing style.

(These are all courtesy of "Police Beat" by The Daily Universe).

Disorderly conduct

March 5 Police received a call about an upset intramural basketball player yelling profanities and kicking furniture while exiting the Richards Building after being ejected from a game. The player was identified and released.

Oct. 16 A resident of Heritage Halls called the police claiming she heard gunshots outside her apartment. Officers arrived and found remnants of two dry ice bombs.

Sex Offense

July 5: A female student reported a male student showing his bare buttocks out the window of a car on East Campus Drive. An investigation is continuing.

Theft

March 4 A student was arrested, cited and released for stealing an oatmeal raisin cookie from the Bookstore.

Ha! Ha!

Cigaweed!

2010-07-15T20:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Chris Rock, you were right. It is not a cigarette, it's a cigaweed! I always want to post on our blog because I have some funny stories to tell as well as pics we need to post. Alas, not tonight. Though, I will leave you with one gem.

I went to a patient's apartment . . . in government-assisted apartments. It was just nasty. Let's just say he would have been homeless if not on disability.

When I was asking him questions, no joke, he rolled a cigarette in front of me. It was not your normal cigarette. It might have had remnants similar to a plant many in Columbia might call "marijuana." Yep, that's right. He seriously started to light up in front of me. I told him I can't work with him smoking in front of me.

He told me to get the hell out. So I did.

*Side note -this marvelous human being had a pan sitting out by him that he claims he melts sugar in? Seriously, you expect me to believe you just cook sugar? Do I scream naivety?

I love second-hand joints!

Ke$ha!!!

2010-06-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

I went to a Ke$ha concert last night with some co-workers. Yep, that's right. She is from Nashville and so to give back to the flood victims she did a benefit concert. We felt good about paying for the tickets because all the proceeds went to flood victims.

OMG. It was hilarious! We decided to dress up as different Ke$ha characters. We went all out. I looked like total white trash. Though, I forgot to bring my best prop . . . my toothbrush :(

She was a disaster! At the beginning of the concert she attempted to do a cartwheel on stage and totally fell on her face. It was so freakin' funny! Then, at the end of the concert she was dancing and totally checked her back-up dancer really hard and the dancer fell off the stage. OMG! It was sooo funny!

It is not the best quality but you get the point!

Today was a sad day . . .

2010-05-23T18:56:00.000-07:00

I found out this morning that my cat, Cookie, had to be put asleep last night. She was 19. I have been crying on and off all day. I knew she was going to probably pass away this summer. I was telling Mitch I seriously feel like I lost my best friend. But, she was so old and was just not doing well. It was her time to go.

I will have to admit that I feel strange making a post about a pet. But, oh well. I have had her since I was six or seven. She is just part of our family.

I can honestly say that leaving her to move to Tennessee was hard. But, she was just getting so old that she would have been confused if I took her with me. She just needed to stay home. I miss her already.

Today was a sad day . . .

Official

2010-05-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

So, it's official! Ok, we have lived in Tennessee for a year but I now officially consider us residents of Tennessee. Why you ask??

Mitch is now an in-state student, a.k.a. in-state tuition!!!

Yeah!!!!

We get to pay $6000 less a semester. Yessssssssss.

:)

Flooding . . . and we live by a dam

2010-05-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard, Nashville as well as 2/3 of Tennessee have had severe flooding. Great. In fact, all of our stuff is packed up ready to go if we need to . I'll be honest I have been a bit nervous.

Our Target is flooded. Kohl's is flooded. The Opryland convention center (next to the Grand Ole Opry) that is near us is completely flooded.

Take a look . . .

These pics don't even do it justice. Poor Target. Totally soaked.

Our apartment complex.

Inside the Opryland Hotel. They had to evacuate all of the guests.

We are currently watching the water rise and fall in our backyard. We might get flooded.

Oh, and it is finals week for Mitch. Fantastic.

raining cows and horses

2010-05-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

It is raining more than cats and dogs right now. It is raining cows and horses.

Two families in our branch have had their houses flood.

7 people were able to make it to church today (including us). We all left after sacrament.

Oh, and buildings and cars are just floating around.

I was supposed to do a home health visit near this exit yesterday. This may sound bad, but good thing she got sick and had to go back to the hospital or else I would have been using my swimming skills!

Mitch is really sad, his favorite ice cream shop on the mission "Dairy King" is well . . . you can see.

Our NEW bikes!

2010-04-26T17:28:00.001-07:00

Can you tell that Meg loves her bike? (If you can't tell, she is hugging it).

This is my sweet ride!

We finally are able to report that we got new road bikes! Lotoja here we come. Megann has had hers for the last month and has been leaving me in the dust as I tried to keep pace on my mountain bike. Now it is my turn to repay the favor! On Thursday we tried to go a long ride but the rain put a damper on the situation. On Friday I rode about 40 miles to christen my new bike. I went from the dam by our apartment to the Titans stadium downtown. My ride was filled with many surprises. First, when I got close to the stadium the road was blocked temporarily. They were holding a mini-marathon (1 mile) for the local elementary kids prior the the actual Music City Marathon the next day. I had to wait a little longer than expected to get through as there were a few husky boys walking for over 1/2 of the mile. The next surprise was the worst. I was crossing the Cumberland River on the pedestrian when in the distance I saw this lady in a bright purple outfit. As I approached my eyes and mind were forever scarred. This "thick" lady was wearing skin tight purple pants and a low cut shirt exposing almost her entire bra. And to top it all off she was wearing a gold necklace. Did I mention that her teeth were the nicest. I can't decide if she was a prostitute or a wife getting "glamor shots" done for her husband. I hope that he'll appreciate her efforts. The last surprise was a snapping turtle in the middle of the path. I picked him up to move him off the trail so that he would not get run over. While in my hands he started to stick his legs out rapidly as if in survival mode. I ended tossing him to the side rather than setting him down gently. Can't wait to see what other surprises lay in store during out future training rides!

Quotable

2010-04-25T11:23:00.001-07:00

You know, everyday I always think of great posts but then I never actually post. Everyday I keep thinking of this post but I just haven't taken the time to post. Well, here is today. I don't know what it is but working in the health care field you meet a lot of crazies as well as really funny people. So, below are some of our favorite quotes.

"My favorite show is L.A. Ink. I love that show L.A. Ink." (Said by a 85-year old man who has been Mormon his entire life. In fact, he had been a Bishop a few times).

"The tie on your pants looks like a sausage!"

"You are a lazy a**!" "I am not a lazy a**!" (A fight then proceeded between the two patients. A fight at the state mental hospital I might add).

"I do not just sweat on one arm!!"

"I didn't know I couldn't smoke in the bathroom."

"Sorry about the cheeto." (I was doing an ekg on a patient and found a cheeto in one of her fat rolls).

"I just heard about the greatest new website. It is called e-harmony." (A patient at the state hospital that was sooo crazy! Scary!).

And the top three quotes . . .

"I am going to have surgery on my leg. The doctor is going to use a cheese grater." (Gotta love the state mental hospital).

"I'm guilty!!! I'm guilty!!" (One of the special needs people had eaten her roommate's candy and proceeded to scream this aloud as she cylced on her stationary bike. Oh.my.gosh. I was dying!).

"Afterbirth! I ain't ever heard of no afterbirth! Oh Lordy!" (A patient referring to when she had her first baby and she didn't know about the placenta. I love my patients in the South! Hilarious!).

It is easier being a Mormon in Utah

2010-04-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it sounds crazy but being a Mormon in Utah is easier.

As I have posted before, I came to Tennessee expecting to easily find a clogging team. Well, I was wrong. But, after being here for almost a year I finally found one! But, it is 1 1/2 hours away. I decided I didn't care because it was worth it. Before I say more, I realize that I am in my mid 20's. I don't care though. I am probably going to be a clogging grandma or one of those grandmas that goes to square-dancing at the senior center. I just really like to take dance classes. So there!

Guess what I found out? The team practices on Sundays!

What?! Sunday?

Who does anything on Sundays except go to church, nap, eat, and hang out with family?? Oh, and on the last Sunday of the month do visiting/home teaching?

Todo, we are not in Utah anymore.

Link to Mitch's Lotoja Hometown Heroes Page

2010-03-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone-
I finally got my donation page all set up for the Lotoja Race. Like Megann said, please do not feel any obligation to donate but if you are interested in finding out more about what my motivation is for completing this race is check out this link. http://www.huntsmancancerfoundation.org/netcommunity/mitchsquesttolivestrong
When thinking of what to name my page I could not help but pay homage to one of my heroes, Lance Armstrong and his great endeavor to help find a cure for cancer.

The link for our LOTOJA pages

2010-03-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

Here are the links for our LOTOJA pages. Actually, only mine is set up but I will post Mitch's when he has it set up.

http://www.huntsmancancerfoundation.org/netcommunity/megann-cancersucks

If you click the link above you will see why I am doing this race and what it really means to me.

Don't feel obligated AT ALL to donate. Yes, the money helps me enter the race but that is not the real reason I am doing it. I specifically chose to enter as a "hometown hero" to support cancer research because without it cancer knowledge and thus knowledge of how to treat it would be nonexistent.

If you are asking yourself, what is the LOTOJA? Read my post below to find out!

Are we insane? Most likely!

2010-03-05T16:51:00.000-08:00

About 5 minutes ago we just signed up to do the LOTOJA. Yes, the 206 mile bike ride LOTOJA. We have been talking about this for years and have finally decided to sign up. Well, not just 5 minutes ago but several months ago. We rode a lot in the summer ( Me especially because when I didn't have a job I had nothing else to do), we have been going regulary to our gym' spin class as well as riding a lot on our own. We kept talking about doing it but now it is for real. We are crazy!!!! We signed up as "hometown heroes" meaning we will be raising money for cancer research in order to do the race.

Are we insane? Yes!

Next step? We need to buy road bikes as our mountain bikes just won't do!!

We are meant for each other

2010-02-21T10:21:00.000-08:00

We went on walk this weekend around our neighborhood. There is this house that for some reason has a hearse on the front lawn. It has been there for a long time.

As we were walking by Mitch dared me, no actually he double-dog dared me (if you think I am joking you are wrong, he really said that) to go and look in the back. I am guessing he wanted me to check if there was dead body in the back.

So, I did. I walked onto the lawn and looked in the back of the hearse.

No dead bodies.

We are strange together. True love.

Uncle Jesse and the Rippers

2010-02-02T12:02:00.000-08:00

I attempted to see Uncle Jesse and the Rippers this last weekend while in San Francisco for a work meeting but I did not succeed. However, I did take a picture in front of the "Painted Ladies" as made famous by the best show ever, Full House. I had planned to have a picnic on the lawn you see in the picture but it was raining. It happened to be the only time that it rained while I was there. Boo. Just my luck.

I also managed to squeeze in some time shoppping at my favorite store ever, Zara! I love that place. I was soooo excited when I found out that it was in San Fran. It was also very conveniently located about a block from my hotel. Oh, and I scored two very cute pants for $9 each! Yes!

My co-worker and I also ate at the most amazing restaurant ever! It is called Mochica.

It is Peruvian and so amazing! Mitch and I have to go back to San Fran for that restaurant alone.

I never been a huge fan of San Francisco but I have changed my mind. I heart San Fran!!

I realize I have slacked majorly in the blogging department. Does anyone even read our blog? I just don't know if it is worth it to have one. I just don't really take the time anymore to update it.

I woulda been in Glee

2009-12-07T14:47:00.001-08:00

If I was in high school I would be in the Glee club. I am a HUGE fan of the show, "Glee." No, seriously I love this show. I love Lea Michele. She is amazing. I seriously love this show.

I would proudly wear the "L" for loser on my forehead.

Here's to Glee!!!

2009-11-28T18:33:00.000-08:00

GO COUGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

finally!

Reimbursement

2009-10-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

I would like to submit a reimbursement form to the BYU football team. I would like to be reimbursed for the money spent on the Oklahoma and Tulane games because apparently they were just to fake us out as evidenced by the game last night. I would appreciate this check in the next week.

Sorry BYU but this is just not cool. Make a decision! Either be bad or be good. I can't take the fence sitting anymore! Have you learned nothing from your seminary class about fence sitting?

Even the cheerleaders were upset! You know all is wrong when even the cheerleaders can't cheer.

winner!

2009-10-16T17:52:00.000-07:00

The winner of the prize is Anna! (I had no idea you had a blog or read our blog!) No really I was planning on giving the winner some cards that I have made with my cricut.

Do you want them?

(I was going to make some cute cards like this)

Adios POPola!

2009-10-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

I don't really drink pop anymore. No really.

I stopped drinking pop at night because if I drink pop with any amount of caffeine in it after 6:00pm I can't fall asleep and I get up 20 times during the night to go to the bathroom.

. . . So I stopped drinking it in the evening.

Then, I started drinking Gatorade (low cal of course) during the day at work because sitting at a desk + pop = painful stomach ache.

. . . this amounts to I just don't drink pop during the week.

Then, I stopped ordering soda when we went out to eat. Crazy! I know!

. . . end result, I really don't drink pop anymore. I say really because I have had a sip here and there but that is it. I'm not completely cured of it just yet.

The results? I no longer get up during the middle of the night to use the restroom. I don't get stomach aches at work anymore. Lastly, I feel better (probably because I drink much more water).

I feel like I have accomplished something huge here. Do you care to know this? Who knows. I really don't care though because this is my blog. So there.

I sure do love The Office!

2009-10-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

Best line from tonight, " What does a bean mean?!"

If you know who said this then you win a prize!

(No, really! I will give you a prize! I promise it won't be a bad prize).

Gotta dance!

2009-09-23T22:36:00.000-07:00

(used to could do this)

There are times I do miss Utah. Okay, not only because I miss family, friends, and well, let's be honest I really miss my cat Cookie but there is also another reason. Dance classes.

Much before we found out we were moving I decided to start classes again including being on a competition clogging team again. It was great. I was really starting to get back into shape and I just love to dance. Yes, at 25 that is totally cool.

I have found out that is only true in Utah.

In Utah, at practically every corner there is a dance studio. I might go as far as saying Utah is a dance Mecca.

I assumed this not to be true in Nashville but I thought there would be something. Surely with Nashville being so close to the Appalachians where clogging supposedly began its roots there would be a team. Nope. No clogging anywhere to be found in the Nashville area. The closest team I could join is 1 1/2 away. In addition my search for a great adult jazz and hip hop class has almost left me hopeless. They are plentiful in Utah. Usually when it is adult it really means 20 somethings that can't give up dancing. Not here. When they mean adult they mean adult. I can sum it up with this statement: the classes I went to sucked. The only class that is worthwhile (which has made me EXTREMELY sore over the last few days) is a class with a bunch of 17 year-olds . . . oh and a 25 year-old lamo a.k.a me. I will continue to attend but I feel like a loser. I don't care though cause I gotta dance! Gotta dance! Got ta dance (Erika you better pick up on that).

So, basically what I am saying is I will be starting my own clogging studio here in our extra bedroom for me, myself, and I. The classes will be every night for 30 minutes to an hour (dependent upon students' stamina). Clogging shoes required. Awesome music also required a.k.a "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga (or bird's nest face if you watched the VMA's). As for competitions I am not so sure if we will compete yet because we will see how the team improves.

As for the Jazz classes black jazz shoes required. Black jazz pants or flowy costumes also required. We will be dancing to most of Michael Jackson's music because as we all know his music is pretty much the best. We will be doing a showcase at Christmas time at a local middle school auditorium so put that on your calendars.

Email me if you have any questions or if you would like to join the teams. Dance enthusiasts always welcome!

~Megs

P.S. Comments from certain friends expected on this post.

updates galore!!!!!!

2009-09-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

Updates galore!

So, I have been MAJORLY slackerish lately. I have wanted to update but the card reader in our computer has not been functioning optimally. But now it is working so now you get to see what we have been up to. There are a few posts here so make sure you look at them all. I am sure you are all soooo excited! Since we are so awesome, right?! Right.

Updates on: Anniversary, Florida vacay, Fort Campbell, BYU v Oklahoma, BYU v Tulane.

So, if I don't get at least two comments on each post I am going to be ticked at all of you. I spent soooo much time uploading these pics. I guess I will find out if anyone reads our blog.

Oooh! I almost forgot! I have started couponing and I am so excited! I save sooo much! This week I saved $86. Boo ya!

updates! BYU v Tulane and New Orleans!

2009-09-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

We once again decided to make a last minute vacay. We decided to go to the BYU v Tulane game in New Orleans {another 8 hour drive from Nashy}. It was also very fun but very different. Let's just say that Tulane has well, no fans. We had more fans present and their school is across the street from the superdome. The superdome is so massive and with the amount of people not present the automatic temperature of probably 50 degrees to keep the stadium cool during the game sure did its job. It was freezing inside! It was stark contrast to outside the stadium which was warm and very humid.

We were able to move so close that we were a few rows from the field and by the 50 yard line. I love Cosmo!
We brought our BYU blanket and Mitch decided to make it a cape and run around. ????

Doing the Haka dance.

Of course while we were there for the game we had to see the city! Amazing! I LOVE New Orleans. When Katrina happened I didn't quite get why the city had to be saved and rebuilt. I get it now. It would have been a great travesty for that city to go under. When we were driving home out of the city we were able to see many homes, apartments and businesses still ravaged from Katrina. It is sooo sad to see. I can't imagine what it was like after it happened.

Calle de Bourbon. Great during the day. See below for the night-time Bourbon street.

Mmmm! This place was sooooo yummy! I highly recommend it! We didn't have coffee in case you were wondering. We had wonderful beignets (fancy French for amazing doughnuts).
So, we decided to take a stroll on Bourbon street at night. Whoa! {said in Joey from Blossom voice} It is craaaazzzzzyyyy! This place was insane. I cannot even imagine what it is like at Mardi Gras! This picture of the crowds does not even come close to doing it justice! I thought that the Running of the Bulls was bad but this place is nuts!

Another moment of taking pictures of people we don't know. These two old (when I say old, I mean old!) ladies were wanting give out their beads to these young guys. Everyone was incredibly drunk. Makes for great people watching/laughing!
Did I mention they get wasted on Bourbon street?

updates! BYU v. Oklahoma!

2009-09-20T16:21:00.001-07:00

We went to the BYU v OU game! Awesome! We had such a great time!

Go Cougs!
We are in the blue section in the sea of red.
Can you tell we are literally at the to of the stadium? I guess that is what you get when you put in for the cheapest tickets available. They were not cheap btw!
We are excited!
After the game.
Again, we take pictures of people we don't know. These girls were fans of DiLuigi on BYU. Great outfit choices girls. Way to represent BYU. Their outfits are hot!
We went to visit the Grassy Knoll where President Kennedy was shot in downtown Dallas. This is a picture of the building where the shooter was. The pic isn't that great because it was at night and I was not being patient enough to take good pics.

I just have to say that Oklahoma fans are awesome. They were nice to us before and after the game. {**cough, cough** U fans}

Go Cougs!

updates! Fort Campbell

2009-09-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

Like I mentioned earlier we went to Fort Campbell for the Week of the Eagles. Here are some pics!
Re-enactment from WWII.
We went to the air show in the morning. So hot outside! Zoom in on the picture to see why he is making the face. Nerd.
This man was one of the 101st airborne paratroopers in WWII. I just had to take a picture of him because he was a cute old man and he is an American hero.

updates! Flo-Rida!

2009-09-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

We went to Florida for a few days {it is an eight hour drive from Nashy} before I started my new job. Totally a last minute trip a.k.a. we didn't have a lot of money so we pretty much just stayed on the beach the entire time. Oh, we rented scooters for an hour which was awesome! We just drove along the coast. We both have wanted scooters for a long time {or a motorcycle. tee hee.} so renting them was almost as good.

Yep, emerald and very warm water! Love Flo-Rida!

We have this obsession with taking pictures of people we don't know. This picture is a prime example. This couple was basically doing all of their glam shots on the beach. The lady was not small by any means and she had a white tank top on for her top and nothing underneath. Eeeewwwww. Here she is posing. You must zoom in this picture. Soo freaking funny. I am ticked though! I took a mocking picture with Mitch posing like she is but he must have erased it! Scoundrel!

updates! Anniversary

2009-09-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

So, I know I posted about this a bit before but I couldn't upload pictures. I posted earlier that I received the best gift ever!!!!! I have been asking for this for . . . . . years!!!!!!!!! Finally!

Mitch made me this. I was most excited for this gift because . . .

{click to enlarge the photo}

We are FINALLY going to take some salsa and latin dance classes! When Mitch and I were at BYU we took social dance and country dancing but we just didn't keep it up. Mitch thinks he was horrible but he wasn't. We competed at dancesport for our class and we got pretty dang far. So, he is totally wrong that he is not a good dancer. He always gets upset that I learn dances more quickly than him. Also, he feels embarassed that he can't dance as well as me. By no means am I a great dancer but I have been dancing since I was little so of course it comes more natural to me!

Isn't this card awesome!
The inside on the card was amazing but the this last part on the back was almost as good. Gotta love "The Office"!
Pretty flowers!

Um, yeah. I love jewelry. Especially target jewelry. Actually I am obsessed.

Thanks for the greatest anniversary Mitch! We are starting dance classes next week so now the fun begins!

:(

2009-09-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

I love my Cougars!

2009-09-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

I need to post our pictures from the big game but until I do . . . Go Cougs!

The game was AMAZING.

My throat still hurts.

I am again wearing my BYU shirt and beaming with pride.

BEST.GAME.EVER.

2009-08-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

BYU vs. Oklahoma

Just counting down the days until we head to Dallas to watch the Cougs face off against the Sooners in the new Cowboys stadium. We can't wait! Ashley, enough with your anti-BYU smack! All we ask is that you keep paying your tithing.-JK Although the Cougs may lose, hopefully they'll give the Sooners a run for their money.

Rundown

2009-08-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

I am too lazy to upload pictures from our adventures so I will just give a list for now

-went to McMinnville again. Rode four wheelers. Fished. Sleptover. I finally finished Eclipse while reading by the lake. Yes, for the first time.

- I have been enjoying my new job. I am even more of a vampire now. One thing I love about being a nurse is drawing blood. Weird, I know. For some weird reason though there is such a rush when you hit the vein and you see blood rush in the line. Also, I actually have time to talk to the patients I help. It is nice.

-Mitch has been a "lazy a**" (There is a story behind that phrase, if you want to know you can ask him. It involves a story while working at the state mental hospital ) while off between semesters.

- Mitch is off of school because he finished his first semester! One down, only 8 to go! :(

-went to Fort Campbell for the "Week of the Eagles" fest. The 101st airborne's base is at Fort Cambell which is about 45 minutes north of Nashville on the Tennessee-Kentucky border. The "Screamin' Eagles" is another name of the 101st. I know a bit about the 101st airborne (from my Dad) so we thought it would be interesting. Mitch's cousin is stationed up there so we stayed at his and his wife's house. And . . . there was free concert which had of course my fav performer once again . . . Carrie Underwood! She is seriously amazing. I know I have said that a gazillion times but she really is. Jake Owens, Hank Williams Jr, and John Rich were also there. Oh, and all the white trash military folk you could imagine. We had to get the security to break up a drunk fight at the concert and I for sure have emphysema now.

People in the south INHALE cigarettes!

panama.city.beach

2009-08-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

we are at this place right now . . . ahhhhhh

I almost had to ask my parents for money

2009-08-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

But I didn't!

Warning, this is kind of long. If you don't want to read on just know that I am no longer unemployed!

I finally got a job! Ok, to be honest I have had so many interviews over the last two months it is ridiculous. I also had job offers. I didn't accept them and here is why. The reasons fall into these categories. One- The company was crap and I would never want to associate myself with them. Two- I had an awesome offer for an cancer infusion clinic (and offers for other oncology positions)but decided it would not be best considering my mommy's current cancer situation. It started to get to me when I was working at IMC on the oncology floor. Three- I had offers for other places but every time I thought about working there I wanted to throw up. There was really no logical reason. I just felt that way. Weird, I know. Four- I didn't get the job.

Let me explain four. I had an interview for a job that I would have well, been the bomb at. The interviews went well and I felt great about it. Then, I got a letter in the mail stating "although your qualifications were exceptional . . . blah, blah, blah." I was honestly, um, shocked. So, I had to apply again for jobs (I had probably applied for I swear 50 jobs by now -- ridiculous).

There was one job that I was kicking myself (literally) for not taking after I didn't get the aforementioned. But, I just knew I couldn't see myself doing it for more than a few months. I didn't want them to train me and then me just quit when I found something better.

Had a few more interviews and today I was offered a sweet job and I gladly accepted. I like the people and the hours. Yes.

I am so grateful.

Here is a description of what I will be doing. I will be a coordinator for pharmaceutical clinical trials. It might sound boring to some but I think that it will be interesting. Best of all it will be a mixture. This job fits me. I hate to admit this (please don't hate me!) but I hated doing 100% patient care. Call me a jerk, oh well.

Click here if you really want to know more about the job:
http://www.centerwatch.com/news-resources/research-centers/profile-details.aspx?ProfileID=426