horseshoes in the sand

Alternative to Declawing

2010-05-16T02:05:00.000-07:00

As a cat owner you all know of what can be one of the worst aspects of owning a cat...their claws. They can ruin the nicest piece of furniture in your house without even batting an eye. A lot of people resort to declawing cats in order to avoid this problem. What they don't know is what a gruesome procedure it is. Even after the very painful surgery, every step the cat will make the rest of their life will be met with agony. Also cats that are declawed often become fearful and resort to biting as a line of defense. Cats that have been declawed often start spraying around your house to mark their territory out of boredom and to mark their territory...ewwww! There are many alternatives to declawing--one of which is buying a scratching post. Adam made Antigua a scratching post and she LOVES it and has not sharpened her claws on a piece of furniture since. Check out our scratching post we made. Another alternative is Soft Claws--they are cute nails you place on your cat's paws to keep them from scratching.

Spaying Antigua

2010-04-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

Today Antigua did her part to insure that she won't produce any kittens that will end up in shelters and on the streets. She was spayed through the low cost clinic in Memphis that spays and neuters cats and dogs at a nominal price. The Mid-South Spay and Neuter Services is located @ 854 Goodman St She might not be happy now, but she is going to be healthier cat because of her surgery! Check out their website for more information so you can get your cat or dog spayed and neutered. http://www.spaymemphis.org/

If you live in Utah check out No More Homeless Pets to find out information. Both Lilo and Memphis were spayed and neutered there and they took great care of our puppies.

Here are the top 10 reasons for you to spay or neuter your animal according to the ASPCA

Your female pet will live a longer, healthier life.
Spaying helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, which is fatal in about 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats. Spaying your pet before her first heat offers the best protection from these diseases.
Neutering provides major health benefits for your male.
Besides preventing unwanted litters, neutering your male companion prevents testicular cancer, if done before six months of age.
Your spayed female won't go into heat.
While cycles can vary, female felines usually go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. In an effort to advertise for mates, they'll yowl and urinate more frequently—sometimes all over the house!
Your male dog won't want to roam away from home.
An intact male will do just about anything to find a mate! That includes digging his way under the fence and making like Houdini to escape from the house. And once he's free to roam, he risks injury in traffic and fights with other males.
Your neutered male will be much better behaved.
Neutered cats and dogs focus their attention on their human families. On the other hand, unneutered dogs and cats may mark their territory by spraying strong-smelling urine all over the house. Many aggression problems can be avoided by early neutering.
Spaying or neutering will NOT make your pet fat.
Don’t use that old excuse! Lack of exercise and overfeeding will cause your pet to pack on the extra pounds—not neutering. Your pet will remain fit and trim as long as you continue to provide exercise and monitor food intake.
It is highly cost-effective.
The cost of your pet's spay/neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter. It also beats the cost of treatment when your unneutered tom escapes and gets into fights with the neighborhood stray!
Spaying and neutering your pet is good for the community.
Stray animals pose a real problem in many parts of the country. They can prey on wildlife, cause car accidents, damage the local fauna and frighten children. Spaying and neutering packs a powerful punch in reducing the number of animals on the streets.
Your pet doesn't need to have a litter for your children to learn about the miracle of birth.
Letting your pet produce offspring you have no intention of keeping is not a good lesson for your children—especially when so many unwanted animals end up in shelters. There are tons of books and videos available to teach your children about birth in a more responsible way.
Spaying and neutering helps fight pet overpopulation.
Every year, millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized or suffer as strays. These high numbers are the result of unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.

Mother/Daughter Cruise

2010-04-14T21:06:00.001-07:00

This month me and my mom went on a mother/daughter vacation for 2 weeks. We shared lots of laughs and got suntans without the husbands around.

We went to see Black Eyed Peas @ the Houston Rodeo...Eddie still might think they are called the Yellow Squashes ;)

My mom and Eddie got us action seats where we had manure flung all over us and our food...It was GREAT!

Cruising is hard

Goodbye Galveston

Grand Cayman

Snorkeling at Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Stingray City in Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Huge female stingray in Grand Cayman

Stingray kisses @ Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Real Mexican Food in Cozumel

Grand Cayman

Our crazy bus friver hit a motorcyclist on the road...and kept going!!! OMG!

Jamaica

Ys Waterfalls in Jamaica

I forced my mom to watch Up @ midnight on the Lido deck

My moon date with Adam where we made a date to look up @ the moon at the same time

My mom broke her toe @ Stingray City and managed to walk all over the place without complaint! She is such a trooper!

BEST VACATION EVER!

Memphis Zoo

2010-04-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago we went to the Memphis Zoo. The Memphis Zoo was voted the #1 Zoo in the U.S. this year by TripAdvisor. They sure have come a long way from 15 years ago. All the animals were extremly active the day we went. The grizzley bears scuffled and played in the water. The wolves walked right up to us. The sea otters LOVED Adam and followed him whereever he would walk while "chirping" at him. We saw the new baby giraffe come out that was born a couple of weeks previous and boy was she a cutie! Here are a fews pics from our day at the zoo. My camera was dying while we were there so we didn't get that many pictures.

This monkey came over and sat by me in the Cat House Cafe. He ate his food and starred at me the whole time while I was eating.
Swinging monkey

The baby giraffe

Pretty Artic Wolves

The Sea Lions

Grizzley Habitat

Reelfoot Lake

2010-04-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Reelfoot Lake was created by an earthquake on the New Madrid fault line. It caused the Mississippi River to go backwards and create what is now known as Reelfoot Lake.

Valtentine's Day

2010-04-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

December

2010-04-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

We went to Utah for Christmas. Surprisingly we only took three pictures while we were there. Here is one. Susan, Sarah, Adam, & Sam

"snow" Christmas morning @ Michelle's Grandparents house

Our Tree

Michelle & Adam Christmas Picture Outtake

Merry Christmas Memphis

Prepare to get flooded with backed up blog posts starting with Thanksgiving

2010-04-14T20:40:00.001-07:00

Harley waiting for some turkey to fall down

Granddaddy and Charlye

Michelle's Catch 1st catch

Michelle's 2nd Catch--no fish for Adam...again

Ms.Antigua stretching

Sunset

Thanksgiving

Gau Gau and Grandaddy Wallace's grave

Halloween "Pumpkins"

2009-11-02T00:13:00.001-08:00

Me and Adam made the mistake of waiting until Halloween to get our pumpkins. All that was left was a gourd and a blue pumpkin. They were not only expensive, but very difficult to carve. They ended up looking pretty cool, but this will hopefully be the only time we have to carve something that difficult. We had tons of scary trick or treaters

My blue pumpkin

Adam's gourd and Antigua staring at me through the window

My dad's fiber optic pumpkin

Dead Men Tell No Tales

Another year (+ one week) older

2009-11-01T23:51:00.000-08:00

I just turned 25 this week. A quarter of a century old and yet I feel the same. I thought by this time in my life I would have my life more together....ahhh, well there is always one more year to get things more together! Here is a shout out to all the people that made this birthday special. My birthday began a week before when Adam took me to the Smoky Mountains. Such a great weekend! I got such great gifts from my other father and mommy. Thank you guys! And my dad took me out on a daddy daughter date to the trendiest theatre in town. :) Thank you, thank you, thank you!

The most delicious cake ever! The inside tastes like tres leches....mmmm!

Pretty pretty flowers from the hubby

And one of the coolest gifts ever...TruBlood! O Positive even, yummy! Thanks Brooksie!

Fun Facts About Halloween

2009-10-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

I've always loved Halloween. Something about the smell, color, and spirit of it is just so invigorating. Regardless of someones religious beliefs everyone can enjoy and participate in Halloween.

Here are some fun facts about Halloween

. The traditional colors of Halloween are black and orange because orange is associated with the fall harvest and black with darkness and death.

. The original "Jack o' Lanterns" originated in Ireland where people would hollow out turnips and put candles inside. They were meant to keep away spirits.

. The origin of Trick or Treating started began when Druids believed the dead would play tricks on mankind and cause panic and destruction. They had to give them food in order to get them to go away.

. Children go around in costume, to scare off evil spirits, saying "trick or treat." They say trick to threaten to perform mischief on the homeowners if no treat is given. Uh oh!

. We bop for apples because this Celtic holiday took to worshipping an ancient Roman God, Pomona. Pomona is the goddess of the harvest. Apples were the sacred fruit of the goddess. Originally bobbing for apples was done by young unmarried woman, the one who gets the apple first, is going to marry next!

. The holiday of Halloween, was originally called Samhain, which means summers end in Irish

. Halloween celebrates the end of the lighter half of the year and the beginning of the darker

. 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkin are harvested and sold every year, mostly during Halloween.

Do you know any other fun facts about Halloween?

Fall in the Smoky Mountains

2009-10-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

About two months ago I told Adam I wanted to the Smoky Mountains for my birthday. We didn't think it would actually happen, but we did and it was one of the most amazing trips I have ever taken. We decided to go a week before my birthday in hopes of seeing the beautiful fall colors the park has to offer in October. And it was gorgeous! All the regulars to the park kept telling us the colors weren't as beautiful this year, but I surly thought it was still awesome colors everywhere. It even snowed while we were there! How perfect it that?! Here are some pictures from our trip.

Our initials in the fire

Yummy roasted cinnamon sugar apples

Campfire Banana Splits...don't worry we liked these so much we had them everyday!

Waterfall on the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

Sawfish from below

Seahorses and the Adam

Mmmmm Ogle Dogs!

Adam making silly faces without knowing it was a two sided mirror

Big Chair

Ogle House

Stream on the way to Grotto Falls

That's a black bear, but I made the mistake of giving the camera to Adam and he didn't know how to focus using my dad's camera

Grotto Falls trail head

This mouse woke me up before daylight scurrying around over our tent for over an hour, I found it in the wood box when I finally gave in and got up

The Chimneys under snow

Creek on Chimneys Trails

Newfound Gap

Waterfall off to the side of the road

Me by the waterfall

Me and Adam at Newfound Gap

My brother, Kris, took us to Knoxville to sight see and get pizza at Barleys

After that we went to a trendy coffee shop

Adam, Kris, and his girlfriend getting warm drinks

Funfetti Giant Halloween Cupcake

2009-10-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

My mom for my birthday cake got me a Wilton Cupcake Pan. Before I make my birthday cupcake I decided to make a practice one. I used the Halloween Funfetti mix because it is scrumptious and easy. Everything turned out really good and the cake mold was super easy to use. Next time I want to decorate the bottom of the cupcake...i guess I will have to invest on some tips that aren't in storage to decorate with. Thanks Mom!

Wildflowers from Shelby Farms

2009-10-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

Today me and Adam went to the dog park at Shelby Farms (at gate 12) and took a nice walk and gathered wildflowers. Considering it's fall I was surprised to find so many colorful flowers throughout the park.

I've watched this everyday for a week

2009-10-05T12:24:00.001-07:00

What Kanye Said About My Site

2009-09-18T02:15:00.000-07:00

Passover Meal

2009-09-09T02:18:00.001-07:00

On Monday nights our household has "family home evening." We are studying the bible together as a family through a class called Disciple led by my dad. This post is a little belated as this was many weeks ago when we had our passover meal after reading about the plagues of Egypt and the passing over the last plague over Hebrew homes. Passover is celebrated to remind Jewish people of their bondage in Egypt and their deliverance out of slavery. While it wasn't springtime, when Passover is actually celebrated, it was an awesome visual to learn the story of the Hebrews in Egypt.

We ate matza[unleavened bread or bread of affliction], drank ~~wine~~ grapejuice[four verbs of Redemption], charoset[which I made! It represents the mortar that the was used to bond bricks when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt], parsley[spring and rebirth], salt water[represents tears from slavery], and raw horseradish. The horseradish was the only unenjoyable part of the experience. Where the horseradish was supposed to bring tears to your eyes to remind "us" of the tears that were shed and the bitterness of slavery. And boy did it bring tears to everybody!

Happy Birthday Daddy and Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

It was my dad's birthday on Saturday. To celebrate his birthday we went to Auto Zone Park to see a Redbirds, the Triple-A Team for the Cardinals, play. We enjoyed bbq nachos, cotton candy, and singing at the 7th inning stretch of course. Happy Birthday Padre!

As a labor day celebration me and Adam took all three dogs to the Shelby Farms dog park. All the dogs got nice a smelly by jumping in the oh so clean pond water! Happy Labor Day for us...and the wet dog smell in our car!

Aspen @ Shelby Farms

2009-09-03T11:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday me and Adam attempted to fish again...no luck with catching anything, but we got a lot of bites. In fact everything we put out there was nibbled off our hooks. Apparently they are just some smart fish out here that eat around the hooks. :) My entertainment while I was "fishing" was to take pictures of Aspen. He is our new "fisher" dog. Not because he knows how to fish or anything like that. But he enjoys, more than the other dogs, just laying there watching us without whimpering. He just sits there acting like he is king of the lake.

Side Note: I need to make a big shout out to my friend Eric. For awhile now I have been wanting to figure out how to a take a picture with a digital camera that was able to blur specific depths in a picture. Eric was so patient with me in explaining how to do it. My first time experimenting with the pictures was back on this post. Then to add to that he taught me how to adjust the exposure, contrast, and saturation. So in love with Eric Harker right now!

Kitten Rug

2009-09-01T00:22:00.000-07:00

Sneaky kitten....just don't step on her, she doesn't like that.

Black and Yellow Garden Spider

2009-08-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

We have been spying on this "little" spider through the window for weeks. If you know me I am TERRIFIED of spiders. They are the spawn of Satan as far as I'm concerned. They are way too creepy for my taste and there only plus is that they kill other bugs. But my cat can do that so I really have no use for them. I am constantly having nightmares where the relatives of the spiders I have killed are attacking me in revenge. I remember details of every spider I have ever killed including which object I used to kill them which only adds to the nightmare. They attack me back with an 'eye for an eye' attitude and they try to kill me with my shoe, magazine, or cup.

Although this particular spider just fascinates me. She/He is such a busy spider. And as long as it stays on its web it can continue to fascinate me in peace I am happy with my little bug catching spider. And no nightmares as of yet!

Do Siberian Huskies Shed?

2009-08-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

It seems kind of obvious that a dog as "fluffy" looking as a husky would shed. But some people assume they don't shed as much. I am here to assure you they shed A LOT! People too quickly purchase huskies without researching the breed only leaving the huskies to be turned over to animal shelters. Research any breed before you buy! It could be a 15+ year commitment! They shed almost always unless you are diligent with brushing them everyday and they BLOW their coats twice a year. The blowing lasts about three weeks or more and it consists of their soft undercoat and it gets everywhere! However a plus side to their coats is they are a fairly clean dog and don't have an odor.

Today me and Adam spent the day TRYING to defur the car. We vacuumed the car for over a half hour and there is still hair everywhere. It just reminded me that it takes a certain personality to own a husky. You definitely can't be bothered by hair or a dog that chooses to be more independent than the average puppy. I found some fun pictures husky fur everywhere through a google search so you know I'm not lying to you. All that said my huskies are my babies. They are also I would say a tad bit more loving than the average dog and are definitely comedians.

Still Missing the Dance

2009-08-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

It's been a month and there still isn't a day I don't think about Sundance. When I ran accross this picture today I couldn't help but start crying since this is the exact spot I held him when he took his last breathe... I know people say dogs don't go to heaven, but you know what I can't imagine a heaven without having my pets there. So I'm counting on seeing you, Sundance, again. A less bipolar version of you ;) I can't wait to have one of those big Sundance hugs again.

Bugs At Dusk

2009-08-27T19:12:00.001-07:00

Since we moved to Tennessee Adam has got to experience a new type of bug, the lightening bug. They come out at dusk and their bottom half flashes on and off in attempt to mate with another lightning bug. Since we live in the city we haven't caught enough to put in a mason jar ;), but we have caught a few to make lightning bug rings on. You squeeze their bottoms and smear the flourescents on and it glows. Pretty cool, eh?

Ridiculous Pet Product

2009-08-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

My buddy Eric shared a blog post from a blog called CrunchGear. It might be the most outrageous pet product I have ever seen. No one that wants this product should be taking care of a dog. Really people, it's not that hard to pick up dog poop. And if it makes you squeamish maybe you are a fish person. Check out this commercial for PooTrap. This is so ridiculous I am starting to think there is no way it could possibly be real. Does anyone know anyone ballsy enough to buy one?

Moments with Love Adoption

2009-08-25T21:37:00.000-07:00

I follow a blog called I Should Be Folding Laundry. It's a totally original fun blog. Anyway, not to get sidetracked! Today there was a post about another blogger friend of hers who is trying to raise money for an adoption she is going to do for two babies from Uganda. I suggest everyone go read her post, it is very touching and if you can buy one of her shirts to help her raise money for her future children. Click on the top link on the top right of my sidebar to get more details!

Antigua has lost her mattress

2009-08-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

"Don't you dare touch my mattress!"

Poor Poor Antigua. My brother Brooks had brought a mattress upstairs and Antigua has been enjoying it to the max. She has been ninja kitty climbing up and down and doing backflips for weeks. But there is no more mattress. She will just have to live without it for now.

That Michelle...She is So Hot Right Now!

2009-08-20T15:03:00.001-07:00

After my recent movie...you may have heard about it, this little film called Terminator, I have become super famous! It's exhausting being so famous. Here is the poster from the movie in case you forgot.

I hate to say it, but my recent fame has drawn some people to some extremes. Beckham got my face tattooed to his chest! A little too extreme I must say...

On the reward side of fame I have gotten to spend some nights with my adoring love Dane Cook. Mmmmm! Sorry Adam, but it's the BAMF! I couldn't resist!

If you would live to be famous just like me try going to this site.

Fishing at Shelby Farms

2009-08-11T15:46:00.001-07:00

Me and Adam went fishing today at Shelby Farms. It was a hot day, but we had a lot of fun. We didn't catch anything with the Power Bait, but a family left some worms and then we started

getting bites like nothing else. And Adam said we wouldn't catch anything with worms. ;)

Getting the poles ready

Watching the poles

Adam's catch! A Turtle?! Don't worry we put him back! Even though he tried to snap Adam's finger off.

I caught a bass! Yea!

And I caught a turtle too! The turtles kept stealing all our bait. Slightly annoying, but kind of cool too.

Aspen, Lilo, Memphis, & Antigua

2009-08-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Just some fun pictures we took today. No one stops panting here because it is over 100 degrees everyday! Lilo and Aspen are finally almost done blowing their coats. You can't really tell from the pictures, but there is "snow" everywhere from me and Adam brushing the clumps of hair off them constantly. On hot days the huskies have been enjoying me filling their water up with ice cubes...Aspen likes to take them all of the water and just let them melt on the ground. :)

"Why is she putting me a bird cage?! So mean!" ~Antigua

Memphis, Lilo, & Aspen

Happy face Memphis!

"Haha! You will never be able to get a picture of me being still!" ~Aspen

This picture had potential until Lilo decided it was time for the treat in my hand!

Happy Hot Puppies

Nudibranch

2009-08-01T10:35:00.001-07:00

I subscribe to National Geographic's photo of the day and this is the picture they put up today.
Now my first thought was what the heck is National Geographic doing putting doctored photos up. I thought they had more class than that! But it is an actual real animal. It's called a Nudibranch. They look similar to sea slugs however there gills are exposed which separates them. Random, but cool huh? Look up more info on them on Wikipedia they are very interesting creatures.

Fun with Colors

2009-07-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

Me and my brother decided to pretend like we were kids again and played with one of our favorite concoctions. As most of you know when you mix cornstarch and water it becomes one of the most amazing mixtures ever. It can be both solid and liquid. When you apply intense pressure it acts as a solid and resists. When slowly touched it ooozes with water. So cool! Anyway, after everyone went to bed I decided to add some food coloring and came out with some really cool creations since the the food coloring doesn't exactly mix very well. And this will be my 100th post! Happy 100!

Stormy weather of Memphis, TN

2009-07-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

Oh how I have missed waking up to the sound of lightning pounding down. Something you don't see much of in Utah. After the initial shock of waking up from the thunderous sounds that were going on outside. It was kind of nice to watch the sky light up and listen to the various lightning bolts. Relaxing even.

My Hugger, My Lunger, My Friend, My Dog, My Dancer

2009-07-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

This last week in Texas I would have never imagined would be my last time seeing Sundance. Me and my mom had commented on how he was such a healthy senior dog compared to all the other dogs we have had in the past at his age. Looking back all the fun we had this last week it was probably the best way to remember him by, but I will never stop missing him. He had my heart since I was 14! We spent the week at the dog park, eating doggie pies, and even getting him in the pool voluntarily with us. It was such a devastating experience to see him go. He was jumping around smiling with us and within 30 minutes later he was gone. After talking to a relative that is a vet tech she told us he probably consumed rat poison. There simply was just not enough time to say goodbye and it was so sad to see him struggle like that. My best memories of him were him pulling me on my bike by the bayou, his golden eyes, his sometimes bipolar attitude, his howls when my mom called for Harley, him coughing & sneezing, his pool kisses, and most of all his husky hugs.

Words from my mom that say it best:

"I miss Sundance so much. I can't stop thinking about what happened to my boy. I am so very sad. Walking in the back yard is just awful. I always had Sundance making me rub him, making me smile, walking over him at the door where he died, him darting in the house, spinning in circles or I just looked where he was at so he couldn't escape. Then there were the times I chose to just love on him instead of him making me rub him.

I have been on guard for ten years when walking out the back door. I "babyed" my red dog. I miss him not smiling at me with those eyes shut. My heart just hurts so bad for him. I loved that dog so much. I just need him to come melt on the kitchen floor pretending he wasn't there. I even miss the fur. I wish I had it back. He was such a good boy and loved us all."

My last Dancer kisses the night before

Dog Park fun...he was so funny, after an hour of playing he jumped up on me to give me a "hug" as if to say lets go! And then ran over to the exit to wait for us to leave with him! My funny Dancer!

<3>

Events in Houston Texas

2009-07-16T22:54:00.000-07:00

I came to Houston last weekend because my mom had to get a major surgery done. The good news is all went well and I am just here during the recovery process. So get well mom! Or don't and I can just stay here a little longer...either way. She had her surgery done at Katy Memorial Hermann hospital....despite the fact that her doctor is socially awkward everyone was super friendly and professional at the hospital. So if I ever need surgery done, god forbid, I would be lucky enough to have a procedure done there.
While I have been here I have gotten to spend good quality time with not only my mom, but my step dad, Eddie, as well. On the four legged side I have gotten to get lots of lovings from my four legged pal/brother, Sundance. He turned 10 this month! It seems like just yesterday we got him and he was the youngest dog in the family. Time flies since he is now the senior dog of the family! Here's to you, my golden eye boy! The most loving husky I know!

Baby Dancer in the flower bed!

"Holding the house up in my spot"

"Eating my doggie pie my sister made me for my 10th birthday"

Happy Birthday Sundance!

2009-07-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

Happy 10th Birthday Sundance! Wish I was there to make you a liver cake!

Happy 22nd Birthday Adam!

2009-06-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Adam turned 22 today! Adam got money from my mom which we used to go eat at a Chinese Buffet. For his birthday cake we had a cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. Yummy...well for Adam at least because cheesecake makes me want to throw up in my mouth. ;)

Do you think I have some Maine Coon in me?

2009-06-29T19:31:00.000-07:00

Antigua

Maine Coon

Boiled Peanuts

2009-06-26T15:18:00.001-07:00

A little piece of Georgia has made it to Memphis, TN. A favorite snack of Georgia is none other than boiled peanuts. Raw peanuts are boiled in water to make a nice salty and soft treat. Mmmmm so good.

I went to the Farmer's Market last friday and saw the sign for boiled peanuts and about had a heart attack. I haven't had them since I lived in Georgia...over 15 years ago! The guy selling them had them for the first time in Florida a couple of years ago on a fishing trip. To his surprise when he got back to Memphis no one had ever heard of boiled peanuts. And then he started selling them every friday and saturday at the Shelby Farms Farmer's Market.. Such a good find!

A formal introduction...Antigua

2009-06-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

We got this little one in Utah. Definitely a clearance kitty as she was free. She is outgoing and the most friendly little kitty ever. Her only downside is her flatulence, but we all love her anyway...the only one who doesn't is Lilo. She would just assume to have her as a meal.

Antigua with her grandaddy

Such a lounge cat

Me in my Kitty Cube my Grandmommy got me. I love it!

TrueBlood

2009-06-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

***TrueBlood Spoiler!*** Lafayette is alive...so far at least! As a fan of the Sookie Stackhouse novels I was not looking forward to the loss of Lafayette to the cast of TrueBlood, but the HBO Series is taking a serious turn from the books. The Lafayette in the books maybe had two paragraphs about him in the first book and he didn't live past Dead Until Dark(Book 1)...and the character that the creators of the HBO series have developed is a reason to keep coming back every Sunday night. I am very excited about what story lines are in store for the very alive Lafayette.

Anyone that is watching the show have any clue who this Marianne character is???? I am wondering if she has any connection to the maenad in the books...

Happy Belated Father's Day to all the fathers out there. Especially to the two great fathers in my life...

It's just not the same since you went away, come back FROM Texas

2009-06-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

My mom left Tennessee today to go back to Texas. She came in town for the final reception in Jackson, TN. Her, Brooks, & Martha have been the three amigos of the wedding extravaganza. They have attended all wedding functions. From Puerto Rico, Utah, & Tennessee that's a lot of dedication! Thank you mom for everything you have done for us, from the beginning to this last visit. I am enjoying watching the kitty in her covered....smelly box now and the nice cold a/c. Here are some goodbye pics from today.

Jimmy's Hot Dogs where ketchup isn't allowed on any dogs.

Slaw Dog

;) Nice tribute ;)

Bye Momma!

Shelby Farms Dog Park in Memphis with Memphis

2009-06-16T18:45:00.001-07:00

To take a break from the job search and getting settled me and Adam went to the dog park in Memphis called Shelby Farms. It's basically a huge fenced in field. I am glad we didn't end up taking Aspen & Lilo because they would have been long gone and never seen again! Memphis got worn out completely, but if we go back again I am thinking he might need a life jacket. As much as he loves swimming he isn't very good at it. His back half sinks in the water. Here are some pictures from the dog park.

Adam avoiding ticks by the pond

Me being hot!

The dog pond

Memphis the retriever

Don't shake so close to the camera!

1, 2, 3, dive in!

Happy wet dog

My new dalmatian friend, Sam

"C'mon pup try to keep up!"

The Tick Man

2009-06-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

"Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that are often found in tall grass and shrubs where they will wait to attach to a passing host. A tick will attach itself to its host by inserting its chelicerae (cutting mandibles) and hypostome (feeding tube) into the skin. The hypostome is covered with recurved teeth and serves as an anchor.^[2] Physical contact is the only method of transportation for ticks. Ticks do not jump or fly, although they may drop from their perch and fall onto a host. Some species stalk the host by foot...Ticks can be found in most wooded or forested regions throughout the world. They are especially common in areas where there are deertrails or human tracks. (www.wikiepedia.org)"

These little bloodsuckers have found a new host. My Adam has had more ticks in the past week than I have had in my entire lifetime. He has now had 7 ticks! Eeeekk! They sure do love his fresh blood.

Speaking of blood, TrueBlood starts tonight! Is anyone as excited as I am?

Walking in Memphis

2009-06-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

Our 1,620 mile journey took us 3 days. With overnight stays in Grant, NM & Oklahoma City, OK. We had 3 big dogs and 1 kitten in tow. We made the best of the trip I must say though. The first day we went to Castledale and visited with some of Adam's family saying goodbye. We went to Four Corners where Adam tried some frybread. The second day we went to the a Cadillac graveyard and The Big Texan (Home of the free 72 oz steak), & and the third day we just kicked it on in to drive and arrived in Memphis, Tn. Here are some highlights.

It was all fun and games in the beginning...

Four Corners

Adam driving

We signed our name combined on a cadillac

Adam committing the felony

Cadillac graveyard

Me in Big Texan chair

Adam in the Big Chair

Antigua sleeping

Adam sleeping

Memphis sleeping on Lilo

Antigua heading the trip in the front window

The smallest Wal Mart I have ever seen

Are we there yet?

Utah Reception

2009-06-09T12:02:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came family and friends to share this special event with us!

The cake Adam's mom made us

Groom's Cake Courtesy of Professional Cake Decorator Cathy Martin

Brooks & Martha
Adam's Grandmother

Father and Sons

Martin Family (Bruce, Michael, Eddie, Lizzie, Grandmother, & Grandaddy)

Me & Rachel

Me and my favortie step brother, Nick

Centerpieces

Family Picture (Bill, Daniel, Susan, Sarah, Sam, Hannah, Emily, Adam, Me, Grandpa C, Grandma C, Mom, Grandaddy, Grandmother, Nick, Rent A Dad, & Brooks)

Ship Reception Pictures

2009-06-01T00:21:00.000-07:00

Wedding Pictures

2009-05-19T20:38:00.001-07:00

It's official...I am Mrs. McKee! Here are some pictures from the wedding in Puerto Rico!

Reception pictures to come later

The view outside my hotel...life is hard

2009-05-09T07:23:00.001-07:00

The lazy boys sleeping in

2009-05-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

Blood Tests Done!

2009-04-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

We have officially gotten our blood tests done for our marriage license! Dun Dun Dun....this time next week we are going to be in Puerto Rico baby!

Love will keep us together

2009-04-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just an update on the relationship status of Aspen & Lilo. They are back together. Lilo was having an affair with The Big Black Dog Memphis, but has since decided Aspen will always be there for her and she will continue her relationship with Aspen from here on out. On that note, Memphis needs a girl friend?

12 more days!

2009-04-27T17:58:00.001-07:00

Chuzzie Whuzzies Freaking Out

2009-04-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

True Blood Season 2

2009-04-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

True Blood season 2 (AKA Living Dead In Dallas) starts on June 14th! I am so excited. Check out this clip and see the introduction of the maenad...dun dun dun!

Spring Time with the Dogs

2009-04-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

While the huskies love the snow the spring weather has brought out some hyperactivity among the huskies. Lilo couldn't stop talking to me today so I had to film it. I think she might be talking to be about the weather and how nice it is outside.

Whitney & Treasa's Wedding in Castledale

2009-04-20T21:41:00.001-07:00

We went to Castledale this weekend for Adam's cousins' wedding. Here are some pictures from the weekend.

Jade and Daniel shooting in the desert

Clay Pigeon Competion

Adam shooting the "orange thingy"

"Mom...can we leave already???? It's hot!"

Me & Adam at the reception

Emily, Adam, & Travis

Whitney & Treasa's Wedding Cake (wedding colors were black, blue, & silver)

Pulled Sugar Rose

Entertaining Emily with the "frog game" on my phone

The flower girl being escorted down the aisle

Emily

Treasa and her father

Bridesmaids

And you may now kiss the bride

And on a side note, what shall I be named?

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-20T09:37:00.001-07:00

The Saturday before last we had an egg dying extravaganza with Rose, Eric, Brooks, Martha, & myself. When Brooks wasn't writing profanities on the eggs they all turned out pretty creative. I forgot how fun dying eggs was. Then on Sunday, we had an easter egg hunt at our house. The hunters included; Hannah, Daniel, and Emily. It was a small turnout for how many eggs we had hidden, but it was a ton of fun. We even had three raw eggs for the kids to crack open on their heads for some special prizes.

Egg Courtesy of Rose & Brooks

Eggs everywhere! We even had Memphis protect one!

Prizes for smashing the raw eggs!

Emily and Bill

Hannah

Bill, Daniel, & Emily

Observers- Martha & Brooks

What I want for Easter

2009-03-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hint Hint Nudge Nudge

Happy MacBook

2009-03-24T19:34:00.001-07:00

For a wedding present my brother got me and Adam a MacBook! I am absolutely in love. It is so much faster than my past computers and all the features I keep learning about everyday are so cool! Thank you Brooksie! You are awesome and I can never thank you enough!

NCAA Bracket

2009-03-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

My NCAA tournament Picks

Midwest

West

East

South

Final Two

Pay It Forward with Crafts

2009-03-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

I got this from my dearest friend Rose's blog.

Pay it FORWARD

How it works:The FIRST THREE people to leave a comment on this post will receive at some point during this year a handmade gift from me. What it will be and when it will arrive will be a total surprise--to both of us.The CATCH is that YOU MUST PLAY TOO! Before you leave your comment here, write a pay it forward post on your blog to keep the fun going (you can cut and paste these instructions). Then come back and let me know that you are going to play, and sit back and anticipate the arrival of your gift. It's THAT easy!Remember, only the FIRST THREE comments will qualify. Good luck!

When your the best of friends...having so much fun together...

2009-03-11T21:10:00.001-07:00

Sundance and Harley

I miss you guys!

2 months to go!

2009-03-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast time has been flying by. There is only 2 months to go until I am officially Mrs. McKee. It has all come along so fast. Invitations are ordered and should be out in another two weeks or so. There is so much to do within the last couple of months. We have basically three weddings to prepare for since there is going to be three receptions! One in Puerto Rico, Utah, & Tennessee and the only one that is for sure is all planned out is the Puerto Rico one because most of the planning was handed over to the wedding cordinator with the cruise line. Wish me luck! Thank you to everyone that has been helping me out so far!

The most enjoyable walk with a HUSKY

2009-03-07T18:20:00.000-08:00

I have just had the most enjoyable walk with my expert pullers, Aspen & Lilo. And I am kind of bugged this wasn't invented years ago or that I wasn't informed at how wonderful this product is. Aspen who I literally trained to pull as much as he could when he was a puppy is the worst dog to take on a "normal" walk. When he was young (8 years ago!) I bought him a X back harness and would tie him to my bike and just let him pull me as long as he wanted to. Teaching him when to pull harder up hills, to turn saying "ha" and "gee," and stop (wait I didn't teach him that! whoops!). While it's been so cold outside however I have neglected his walks because (A)I am a wimp and don't want to take my bike out in the cold & (B) my arms get almost torn out of my socket with my huskies pulling me to death. I bought him an Easy Walk Harness today and the pulling was simply non-existant! I couldn't believe it. Choker collars never worked because my dogs would just choke themselves to death. And the halters I know they would desroy. If you have a pulling dog go buy one now!

Stealing Husky in the News

2009-02-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

Wow...this reminds me of something our first husky would have done...

Pizzeria 712 Dinner Club Courtesy of Eric Harker

2009-02-25T11:21:00.000-08:00

My friend, Eric, is kind of a big deal in Utah County among other places. Especially in a unique restaurant for those who like food that is delectable and not something you would normally find in a place like Orem, Utah. Located on State St in Orem at 320 South (inside the big yellow building) you will find a delightful restaurant called Pizzeria 712. Eric invited us to the dinner club they have at the restaurant on the last Tuesday of every month. The chef invited him to bring friends along and I was lucky enough to be invited. It was absolutely delicious! Here is what we got to enjoy last night. Yummy!

First Course

poached clifford farm egg, frisee, bacon lardons, truffle vinaigrette

Second Course

cider braised pheasant, wild rice, roasted cauliflower, natural jus
Cheese Course
fontina, crostini, toasted walnuts, pear
Third Course
chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwich

Me & Adam

All pictures Courtesy of Eric Harker

The Hugga Bunch...an 80s classic

2009-02-23T17:01:00.000-08:00

Marley and Me

2009-02-21T13:45:00.000-08:00

Even after seeing the movie before reading this book I found myself laughing more than I probably ever have at a book. Grogan tells the story of his dog's life along with his personal life experiences that were going on through the time. It was mostly comical seeing Marley be the antagonist to so many family dilemmas. There are so many life lessons in this book I don't think I could name them all. Marley might be the reason many people in America don't get dogs because he isn't what you would call a perfect dog, but the love his family has for him shows through the pages. He has many quirks that remind me of my own dogs. He is terrified of thunderstorms like our Shih Tzu Harley, but unlike Marley, our Harley doesn't destroy things in his panic attacks. Marley is a over sized Labrador, like Memphis. However Memphis personality seems to feet the breed characteristics better than Marley. Thank goodness for that! Even if you aren't a dog lover this book would pull your heart strings. 4.8!

Hurtin' Em Inc

2009-02-19T22:06:00.001-08:00

My brother has started a T-Shirt company called Hurtin' Em Inc. They have really cool shirts and if you want to wear something original check them out. He is adding new shirts weekly so keep looking for new ones.

The Snowball Snuggle Buddies...+a snuggling oversized lab

2009-02-19T19:02:00.001-08:00

It's hard to wake up when you have these snuggle buddies in your bed. They kept me in bed this morning until 2 in the afternoon...whooops!

Hamster Dilemma

2009-02-18T13:12:00.001-08:00

Last night as usual I went to check in on our little hamster, Scratch. As I approached her cage I knew something was wrong. I had put food in her bowl last night and she hadn't touched a piece of it. Usually after I give her her food she stuffs her cheeks full of it and buries it in her bedding. I starting moving her bedding around and she flinched a little, but didn't open her eyes. I called Adam in and he thought it was weird too. We got her out of her cage and she was stiff as a doornail, but her heart was still breathing. We brought her into the living room holding her in our hands. She wasn't budging at all. Adam looked like he was trying to eat the poor thing as he was blowing hot air on her. After about 30 minutes we got her to warm up and got her to down her food. Hamster is all well now, but we moved her away from the window so she won't freeze over anymore!

This incident reminding me of one of my hamsters from my childhood. My dear hamster, Hammy, was outside when it got cold one night. My mom went outside and saw that the hamster was stiff and presumably dead. She placed the hamster in a baggy so that when I got home from school I could have a funeral for my Hammy. Well come to find out an hour later the hamster started scurrying around in the baggy. Hamster was resurrected!

Pet Nutrition Specialist

2009-02-17T16:48:00.001-08:00

I finally have a job! I have been searching for a job nonstop for the past four months and I finally got hired by a company I already love. None other than Nutro Pet Products. It's only a part time job, but it's something I'm already passionate about and they are completely flexible so I am excited. I will be going to pet speciality stores in Utah County on the weekends and talking to people about what they feed their dogs. Now just pray I can find a job to work a couple more days of the week.

The furry kids

2009-02-13T23:08:00.000-08:00

Most of my posts on my blog revolve around my furry little friends, but I've never really introduced them. So why not add a new post and tell you about our furry housemates and who they really are.

ASPEN He is the oldest of the gang(8 years old). He is hyper like all Siberian Huskies tend to be and still acts like a puppy. The spot on his nose is not dirt. About a month ago he had a dispute with his lady dog friend, Lilo, and she bit him. Not exactly the behavior you would expect from a girlfriend, but they are on good terms as long as she is in charge. He loves long rides running in front of me on my bike, pulling me along of course. He is a big cuddler. He would love nothing more than to rest his head in your lap while you scratch his head. He is also my protector. For some weird reason he has been known to get really jealous when other dogs get near me and he tends to growl them away. He a people dog and loves anyone he meets. He somewhat of a dope, but I love him.

MEMPHIS He is the BIG baby of the bunch. Absolutely handsome! I got him off the side of the road so to speak. A whopping $90! He supposedly has AKC bloodlines, but he weighs over 100 lbs and that seems a little much for a lab who is only a year old, don't you think? Maybe he has some Great Dane in him or something? He can be the most active and calm dog you have ever met. He loves to cuddle in bed in the mornings. Anyone that meets this loverboy loves his disposition. He gets along with any dog and enjoys lounging around and watching my every move. He LOVES his toys. If we won't throw him his toys he finds a way to have fun without destroying his toys. He throws his toys to himself constantly. He is truly a momma's boy and hates when I leave him alone with anyone. You can't really tell from his pictures because he is not photogenic but his coat is absolutely gorgeous! I expect big things from him as he grows up. Oh and another plus is he is great with children. Adam's 2 year old sister is constantly climbing on him, pulling his tail and ears, and he just sits there like a good boy. A + Memphis!

LILO Well Lilo isn't actually my dog, but she lives with us and I pretty much take of her so in reality she thinks she is mine. Lilo is 6 and we got her Texas when my brother was in search for a white husky that was bi-eyed (one blue & one brown). She is the most unhusky like husky we have ever owned. She doesn't have the a highly independent streak and if you called her in a park she would come running back to you. She is a big husky talker. She loves howling/talking whenever she wants anything. She is a good li-li-li-little girl!

Other Dogs of Note

*These dogs don't live with me, but they are part of the family.

Polar "Pixie" Skywalker This little vixen is Lilo & Aspen's little girl who lives with my brother in LA. She is parti-eyed. One of her eyes is half brown and blue. Check out her myspace.

Texas Dogs

Harley Bob Marley Harley lives at my mom's house in Texas. Once upon a time he used to be my dog, but he loves my mom a little more so he lives there. Even if he has a stinky face I love him.

Sundance Our red and white husky, he turned nine this year. He is an absolute sweetheart who loves hugs. He can be a little temperamental sometimes, but he is the most loving dog we have ever owned.

RIP Shiloh and Akela. Shiloh had to be put down this last May. She is by far the BEST dog I have ever owned. She understood everything you said and just had a way of loving her family I have never seen another dog possess. She would do anything as long as it made you happy. Akela was our first husky. She died in her sleep when she was 10. She was by far the laziest husky we have ever owned, but the smartest. She would mastermine plots to get all the huskies out of the backyard. She was the alpha dog to the end and I think she even thought she was the alpha dog over us sometimes.

The Great Gatsby

2009-02-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

Set in the "roaring" twenties, this might be one of the best pieces of American literature. It's a very short and easy read. It tells the tragedy of Jay Gatsby through the narrator/neighbor Nick Carroway. It's a book all ages can enjoy and relate to. The story is told through the discovery of truth as Nick Carroway sees it. We see the glamour and prosperity of the world that is post WWI. I don't want to give too much of this book away because I think everyone should read it someday. The root of the story however is Jay Gatsby pursuing his first love and battling to bring her away from her husband. He wishes to start their love story where it was left off five years ago. A fast and intriguing book all the way through! 4.8

Happy Valentine's Day with Bears

2009-02-12T15:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

A holiday between father and daughter

Valentine's Day for me always was celebrated with my father and I. It was the day my dad would bring me flowers and take me on a date. On my first Valentine's Day my dad brought home a vase of flowers with a bear wrapped around the vase. It was probably one of the most exciting things a little girl could get. My parents saw I took a deep fascination with the bear on the vase and taught me say 'bear" when I was reaching for my bouquet of flowers. Of course as a child I thought they were talking about the flowers. The next day I went outside and saw all the pretty 'bears' in the flower bed and instantly pointed out all the colorful bears. My parents didn't correct me on that 'misnaming' of objects until much later.
Thank you for my beautiful tropical flowers this year Dad. I will always be your little girl. I love you and Happy Valentine's Day!

Memphis Plays in the Snow

2009-02-11T23:28:00.000-08:00

These videos are from a month ago, but it shows our puppy Memphis playing in the snow with Adam.

Afterwards we decided to bury Memphis.

My sweet and sexy fiance

2009-02-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to dedicate a post to the love of my life who always finds an extra special way to make me feel good about myself. I have been in a slump this past week. And Adam decided to make my day the other night. I got home from SLC to find my room spotless clean (which it had looked like a hurricane went through it previously) and a yellow rose sitting on the bed. Sometimes people don't realize they have something special. But I know how lucky I am because this man would run through fire for me. He isn't perfect, in fact I think he might have the worst smelling farts out of anyone I know. But everything about our love for each other is perfect and because of that I know we can make it through anything. He pulls me up when I am down and vice versa. Only three more months until we tie the knot! Thank you Adam for always making me feel beautiful. :)

I love to hate my independent smart dog <3

2009-02-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

I love this dog of mine. He is smart, beautiful, & independent. And for an old dog, he just turned 8 this year, can still run like a cheetah. And he can still escape from the yard like he was a puppy. I have had a husky in my life since I was in 4th grade. Our first husky, Akela, was the one that taught me the tricks to catching a husky.

The tricks to catching a husky
1. Act like it's a game of chase and run away from them and they will follow you home. They want to win this game!
2. Sit down and act like you aren't going to catch them and hold their favorite treat (Akela's was potatoe chips or hot dogs)
3. Have a car race. This is similar to number one, but the car puts less strain on you. They want to beat you so just let them get so close to getting ahead, but keep going home. (This one is Sundance's favorite)
4. TRY to catch up with them and grab them. This one is almost impossible, but every once and awhile it will work.

Yesterday, none of the that worked. Aspen decided to scale the fence in our backyard right in front of us. We instantly tried trick number 4. That didn't work. I tried number 3. He ignored me. Then I tried number 2, yeah no luck. Then we tried number 1. At this point I'm upset because Aspen was literally 10-20 feet in front of us and I could never catch him. Finally we cornered him and took him back home. And of course the whole time he just had the biggest grin on his husky face thinking this was the best game he played in a long time. Grrrrr. He kept letting us get so close to him and then one just dart off again. I don't know what that says about my personality that I love a dog that is Aspen, but I simply do. There could be nothing better than a Siberian.

All Together Dead

2009-01-31T21:19:00.000-08:00

Life isn't too easy for the barmaid Sookie Stackhouse in book 7 of the Sookie Stackhouse Series. She has been betrayed by her first love and is now seeking new interest outside the vampire world. Although vampire fans will be happy to see in this book it's filled with almost all vampires and cameos with Sookie's new fling, the weretiger leaves you wanting more. In this book Sookie goes to a vampire summit in Rhodes. It's up to her to decide the fate of many. Her talent of reading minds is once more relied upon in the supernatural world. This book seems to prelude to some Vampire Bill who is in turmoil for what he did to Sookie. We also have some more connections between Sookie and my favorite of her prospects, Eric Northman. 4.3

Definitely Dead

2009-01-24T18:52:00.001-08:00

Sookie has definitely progressed throughout this series. In book 6, Definitely Dead, she is a confident woman. She is dating a new "man" who happens to be a weretiger. Sookie is summoned to New Orleans by a lawyer who is cleaning up some stuff for Sookie's dead cousin. We meet the Queen of Louisiana who happens to be a vampire. And no that is not a typo. Apparently there are queens and kings in the United States that humans are not to know about. I found this entry to the series to be an emotional triumph on Sookie's part. She finds out some information that may end love relations with a past boyfriend in the dust. This book was fun and had less life threatening plots which was a relief. We also get to meet some fairies and demons. Another new addition of nonhumans we didn't know before. 3.9

Dead As a Doornail

2009-01-24T18:44:00.001-08:00

Another enchanting book of the Sookie Stackhouse Series, this one is book 5, Dead as a Doornail. Eric is back to himself which I actually liked this version of his character than the one represented in book 4. Everything about Eric represents what a true vampire should be. This book takes some fun twists as we are dealing with a family member of Sookies who has become a werePANTHER! There are shooting going on in the Bon Temps area and now Sookie has got to look out because her family member is one of the targets, a shapeshifter. For all you vampire lovers, there isn't much vampiric activity going on this book. We learn a lot about werewolves and wereanimals through the book. And of course more Alcide, but not the Alcide you want to be seeing anymore. His dad is running for packmaster and is quite demanding of Sookie and is not the nice guy we remember escorting Sookie around. 4.1

Dead To The World

2009-01-24T18:27:00.000-08:00

Spoilers ahead

The fourth book of the Sookie Stackhouse series, Dead to The World, takes a surprising turn with this addition to the series. We loose the initial love interest of V.B. (Vampire Bill) & explore new territories to none other than Eric Northman. Except Eric is nothing like Sookie remembers because Eric doesn't remember who he is. Through a brawl with some local witches Eric has lost his mind, literally. He has no memory. Sookie plays a tough heroine and will surprise all the readers and she helps with the battle of vampires vs. witches. This book is very sexy partly due to the fact that Eric is the sexiest character ever written in modern literature and the plot is not ruined by the eroticism written by Harris. Bravo for book four. Definitely a 4.7!

Club Dead

2009-01-13T14:33:00.000-08:00

Rating - 4.3

Review - This series is continually getting better. The introduction of more love/lust interests to Sookie is becoming a little overwhelming. In this 3rd book of the series Sookie is left in search of her boyfriend who has disappeared to hook up with his past fling? Even through the betrayal she puts that aside to save the day. She meets more supernatural beings. One in particular, a werewolf, who has a infatuation with Sookie Stackhouse. The Eric/Bill/Sookie triangle continues. The book left me however wanting to kick Bill out of the triangle and embrace the sexy vampire Eric. MMMmmm! The book is fast paced, sexy, and an adrenaline pumper!

Our Puppies

2009-01-13T14:29:00.001-08:00

My mom made this slideshow of our puppies. Thanks mom!

Living Dead In Dallas

2009-01-09T23:04:00.001-08:00

Rating - 4.2

Review - I thought this novel was extremely better written than the first. The introduction of new supernatural beings was something I found very interesting. We even get to meet another telepath, some shapeshifters, and werewolves. I can't wait until the second season of the TV series, True Blood, starts airing so I can see how they bring this book to life. The heroin, Sookie Stackhouse, is a character I think everyone can relate to. She doesn't quite have herself all together, she even has a temper. I find her saying things to her vampire boyfriend, Bill, that I say to my boyfriend when I am being totally irrational. She is very real and easy to relate to. Charlaine Harris has managed to point out that vampires are not always so glamorous and are in fact predators at heart in many parts of the book. However, like humans there are some vampires that can take things too far. The storyline for this book was original especially the Dallas story plot, but I found towards the end of the book the author was being very cliche in regards to Bill and Sookie's relationship. For the most part this book was a very delightful read and I recommend it to anyone who loves reading vampire books.

Dead Until Dark

2009-01-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

I finished reading my first book of the year over Christmas break. Here is my attempt of giving a review of it.

Rating - 3.8 / 5

Review - This is the first of a series of books called The Sookie Stackhouse Novels. Being the first book I didn't find the character development to be as intriguing as the HBO Series it created, True Blood. However, the idea that vampires are "out of the coffin," I found to be very original. The plot seems to parallel a lot of civil rights struggles, but not with very original storytelling. The book is very fast paced and I felt the author could have slowed down to explain many things more thoroughly The heroin however is a better developed character in the book than in the TV series. Her disability, telepathy, is better understood through the book than in than series and all of the books are told from her perspective so it's better to get some feeling from her character I didn't really experience through the show. While I read the book I surprisingly liked the characters Sam & Eric more. I hope as the series continues that both of those relationships will grow. This book definitely doesn't hold up to the Vampire Chronicles that Anne Rice wrote. But it was fairly entertaining and original.

Happy New Year

2009-01-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Me and Adam spent New Years at my mom's house in Texas. It was the last day on our Houston trip so we did our last minute touristy things and ate some more. We went to a Premium Outlet Mall where Adam spent the most on a jacket he ever has in his life ($50!!). And my mom bought me the cutest black juicy crutch purse to take on our wedding cruise. My parents also got us baby clothes as a hint...I think that might be a few years. Sorry :( We ate lunch at my dad's McAlister's (his because it is a Memphis based restaurant). Then we had a feast at my mom's house when we got home. As if we didn't get enough to eat already at my mom's house! I started the New Year in bed listening to fireworks and talking to my mom & Adam. Here are some New Years pictures we took before New Years. ;)

He hated the hat, but here is Sundance bringing in the New Year

Here is Harley. You can't tell from the picture, but he is shaking because the big bad fireworks are going off outside.

Me checking into our flight at 6:30 the next morning

My boys watching TV (Brooks, Eddie, & my dad)

Oh and as a last thought, these are my resolutions for 2009!

1. No Monster Energy Drinks!

2. Get to a size 12 before my wedding in May

3. Learn and excel at something new

4. Find an internship, preferably in Texas

5. Read at least 1 book a month

6. Start baking dog treats and start online dog bakery.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

For Christmas Adam and I went to my parent's house in Houston. Adam went on his first plane ride ever. I don't think it was as big of a deal as he anticipated, but I believe he enjoyed it. He made it through the security check point with no problems other than anxiety. Our layover however in Albuquerque was delayed over an hour. And that's always fun to sit there and do nothing in airport. I did get some reading done in a book I am reading, Dead Until Dark. It's part of a book series that has now been made into a HBO Series called True Blood. We have been doing a lot of relaxing, EATING, swimming, and shopping. Here are some pictures of our adventures so far.

Me and Adam at the SLC airport

Adam being scared for his first flight!
Adam taking out Harley at the trailer site
My mom's Christmas Tree
The Caribbean themed tree she put in my room
Adam and I put out luminaries
Nativity in the yard
My father and I drinking egg nog out of the Christmas Vacation mugs
Me and Adam
Cousins
Merry Christmas to you too Adam!
Sundance
Us swimming in my mom's backyard
Me and Adam under the waterfall
Me and Adam in the hot tub
Christmas Dinner
My mom and me
My mom, Brooks, & Me
Adam & I in front of the tree
Buca for lunch
In the Buca bathroom
Adam and I at the Galleria

My Special Day at Disney

2008-12-22T14:53:00.001-08:00

My polar bears in the snow + a black bear

2008-12-18T14:47:00.000-08:00

The pack playin' in the new snow that came down last night

Memphis- "I want to be white too!"

Aspen "I am a snow dog!"

Aspen "or am I a gazelle?"

Lilo- "I have a cute husky butt and tail, stop staring!"

Run, Run, as fast as you can, you can't catch me I am the top snow dog!

White Memphrica

Aspen- "My feet sink to the bottom of the ground! I love it!"

Bat dog is coming to get Lilo!

Lilo & Aspen's Baby Boy came over for a visit

2008-12-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

One of Lilo & Aspen's puppies came for a visit this week. He was the last one from the litter to go, but he was one of my favorites as I got to spend so much time with him. As a puppy he had the most "husky-like" personality. He was a master escape artist and just had the overly happy attitude. We used to call him Chocolate Thunder, but his new name is Cody. Here are some pictures from his visit.

Lilo is ready to play!

Hugs for dad!

Tug of War with Memphis

This is a brand new toy, lets see how long it will take us to destroy it!

Less than a half hour later here are the remains!

Procrastination

2008-12-15T23:32:00.000-08:00

I am the queen of procrastination. Unfortunately it can lead to very stressful moments. I have long since put off an independent study class I had signed up for because...well I am just dumb. It took me over a year to get my act together and be done with it, but congrats to me because I finally finished it. Abnormal Psych, it's been a long road, but I am happy to see you gone! I am done with all college classes FOREVER! Whoo hoo! Now all I have left to do is the hard part. Find an internship and then I am career bound. Take that unemployed version of Michelle!

The Snow is Yummy

2008-12-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty good snow this morning and I captured the puppies having some fun in it. It was hard to get any pictures of Aspen because he can't stand still for more than 2 seconds. Although I really wish I was able to catch Memphis in his body slides on the ground. Whenver he tried to run anywhere and turn he ended up falling and sliding about two feet every time. He is such a goofy cluts!

As seen below the ice is a good source of water. Lilo was eating snow all morning.

This is a mid action picture of Lilo running after Memphis...I don't know what's going on with her legs.
I love the snow!!!

Why can't she keep her eyes open when I finally get Aspen to look at me??? Grr

Top Ten Christmas Movies

2008-12-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

So in an effort to get festive I started pondering on movies that put me in the Christmas spirit. Here is my list of the top ten movies to watch this time of the year.

Top Ten Christmas Movies
1. A Christmas Story
2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
3. Prancer
4. Miracle of 34th St
5. It's a Wonderful Life
6. The Muppet Christmas Carol
7. Santa Claus: The Movie (1985)
8. Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas
9. Home Alone
10. Bad Santa

The Quest for a Bagel Dog

2008-12-02T11:37:00.000-08:00

About a year and half ago me and my father went to an Astros Vs. Cardinals game in St Louis. At Busch Stadium they had Bagel Dogs. My dad instantly "fell in love." Since then he has not been able to find said Bagel Dogs. He has been able to find the weiner dog version, but that simply doesn't quite measure up to the Busch Stadium Bagel Dog. While in Utah this past week he was on a quest. The quest for a bagel dog! We checked Costco and had no such luck there. Then when we went up to Brewvies with Rose we saw a movie called Role Models. In the movie one of the characters has a fascination with Bagel Dogs as well. She got her bagel dogs at a convenient store so we figured we might be able to find one there. Yeah right! We checked every convenient store chain in Utah County and none of them had heard of a Bagel Dog. The night before my dad had to leave he started searching on the Internet for Bagel Dogs. And guess what? He found Bagel Dogs on the Internet at a restaurant in Utah County. None other than Einstein Bagels. The morning before the flight we filled up on some overpriced Bagel Dogs and found disappointment that they just didn't quite taste the same, but they at least were a happy ending to the quest...somewhat.

All Things Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

So this week my dad came in for Thanksgiving. It was a very eventful trip so I will do my best to sum it all up. He came in on Monday afternoon. After me and Adam picked him up from the airport we went to Body World. Which I must say was extremely awesome. They have taken bodies people have donated to science and used this new process called Plastination to preserve the bodies. As a person who has studied Anatomy I must say they did a great job. Not to mention because plastination isn't as messy the bodies weren't that nasty juicy smelly cadaver smell. Big plus! The only part that was hard to see was the exhibit on babies. They followed the baby starting at 4 weeks until birth. It was so pitiful to see a nine week old baby with it's little fingers and toes and know that people have no problem aborting babies that little. If anything can make you choose pro-life it might just be seeing what people are actually killing, which is a human being. The display of muscles was very detailed and they showed the effects of certain diseases on the body which was very intriguing.

After we got to the house my dad went out to see the puppies. Lilo & Aspen freaked out seeing my dad. They could not stay away from him. I guess they must miss living in Memphrica after all. That night Adam's family came over for a cook out. No brawls came about so I think it went pretty well. :)

During the weeks we saw a grand total of 5 movies in the movie theatre! On one day we went to see The Four Christmases and Transporter 3 and that was a tiresome movie day for sure! The rest of the week we went to see Role Models (@ the Cinema Pub in SLC AKA Brewvies), Twilight, & Bolt in 3D.

Mostly through the week we just relaxed. The boys played A LOT of Call of Duty & we all just shared memories and spent some good quality family time with one another. Hurray for Thanksgiving!

The New Vampire Fad

2008-11-30T16:22:00.000-08:00

I have always had a deep fascination with vampires ever since I saw The Lost Boys in my younger days. Since then I have come to find other original and fascinating vampire stories and movies such as the Anne Rice novels, Interview with the Vampire, Underworld, Bram Stroker's Dracula, 30 Days of Night, Kindred of the Embraced, & I could go on. But I find it fascinating how something I have always took an interest in has become so populurized right now. I'm not going to lie, as someone who has seen Twilight, it is pretty decent as far as vampire stories go...however very G rated. I have come to love a new vampire series though called True Blood. It's about a time in history when vampires are "out of the coffin," and that Bill Compton is one nice piece of vampire. It's set in a small town in Lousiana and a vampire comes in town and disrupts their nice little setting they have going on. It's a must see! So if you want to take part in the new vampire fad that is sweeping the nation. Watch all the episodes of True Blood. :)

Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T21:29:00.000-08:00

So I have now officially cooked my first Thanksgiving meal. I knew it would be a lot of work, but man I don't know if I ever want to do it again. Here are the details of our festivity.

Guests

Adam

Myself

My dad

& Brooks

*Scraps went to Lilo, Aspen, & Memphis :)

Menu

18 lb Turkey (we really didn't need that big of a turkey, but I honestly just picked up the first Butterball I saw)

Stuffing

Giblet Gravey

Hot Potatoe Salad

Cabbage Slaw

Develed Eggs

Beets

Cheese Ball

Celery/Sweet Pickles/& Dill Pickles

Strawberry/Banana Fruit Jello

Pumpkin Pie

Chess Pie

Turtle Brownies

She almost ate my hamster!

2008-11-20T09:42:00.000-08:00

Exhibit A

The culprit? This bi-eyed little gypsy who happens to look so innocent.

Exhibit B

She stages out her attack. Which when I first saw this I though "oh so cute." ...but I was oh so wrong.

Then next thing you know Lilo has pounced on the cage. The hamster runs in the tunnel and doesn't move, I swear to you, for over an hour. I thought the poor thing had a heart attack. Note to self huskies and hamsters can't be friends.

Here are some other pictures from this morning of the doggies having some fun.

Memphis & Lilo playing tug-o-war

Aspen being picture shy & dirty

Is Antigua part Maine Coon?
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