Too Blessed To Stress

Oh, where oh where has the time gone.

2009-10-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

There was a little girl,

Who had a little curl,

Right in the middle of her forehead.

When she was good,

She was very good indeed,

But when she was bad she was horrid.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

It's a poem that my mother and my grandmother used to say to me all the time as a little girl. But, the truth is, it fit's Channy pretty well.

My baby turned 13 today. No more little ones around the house...Just teenagers....All 3 of them. I was looking through old photographs of Channy today, and of course it brought tears to my eyes to see how fast the time has gone. She was my sweet little girl I dressed in pretty little outfits. Then she was my little tom-boy that dressed in her brothers old clothes, and refused to wear dresses anymore. The tides have changed once more, and fashion reigns the day. Today she begged to wear the new clothes she knew I'd bought her....After all girl's got to look pretty....especially a teenage girl.

Fall Family Pics

2009-10-17T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today I took some fall pictures of the family. Let me tell you it was no small job. No one likes their picture taken...what's that all about??? But, this is what I got for my efforts.

Titan Homecoming

2009-09-27T08:45:00.001-07:00

I was thrilled when Corbin decided to go to homecoming. After all, you only get to go to High School once. Corbin has had a rough time of late, and I knew a little dancin' would cheer him up. He invited Kirstin a Titan Cheerleader to insure it was extra cheery. :) He doubled with one of his Titan teammates (Zach) and another Titan Cheerleader (Kaylee), and it really did the job......He was definitely cheered up. They are all great kids. I love to have them around.

They started off with a day date. Breakfast at Granny Annie's in Kaysville (side note: Annie's is his grandma Dorman's favorite breakfast establishment.) Then on to the Gateway for a picture scavenger hunt. After that, ice cream at Cold Stone. Then back home to get ready. (We went shopping last minute for a vest at the mall.) Then the boys went to pick up the girls and met at the park (because parents don't pay without pictures. lol) After that, they went to dinner at Chili's, and then to the dance (I'm told Corbin is a dancing machine. He danced with everyone's date.) After the dance the whole group came to our house for a movie.

So, let's do the math - Shoes $40, Tie $10, Vest $30, Corsage $ 30, Breakfast $8, Camera $12, Ice Cream $7, Dinner $30, Dance Tickets $15, Pictures $45, Movie $5 -A smile on Corbin's face PRICELESS! (Don't ask Rick if it's Priceless...you may get another answer)

Corbin did play in the winning Homecoming game against Roy score 47-0. Here is a picture from the game. We are pretty CrAzY fans. We wear Property Of Titan Football T-shirts, wave blue and white pompoms and ring cowbells. Were down right embarrassing; no wonder Corbin pretends not to know us.

This pic is of Kinley.

Corbin and Kirstin

Corbin and Zach

Kaylee and Kirstin

Zach and Kaylee

The Girls

The Boys

Awwww.....to be young again....Now that would be priceless...

Football - It's a rough sport

2009-09-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

Syracuse High Football

It's been a really tough football season for Corbin. He started off the preseason with a bad sprained ankle. That took a few weeks to heal, and then just when he was back.....something life changing happened to him....He had a seizure. He was lifting and just went down. It was a grand mall seizure (8 min long) an ambulance was called to take him to the hospital. His team mates were very frightened and shaken. After tons of tests, X-ray, blood, CAT, MRI, EEG and so on he was diagnosed 6 weeks later with Epilepsy. Then just when he was back, the Davis High JV team dislocated and tore his shoulder. It was very painful to watch him have it put back in. So, now he's in physical therapy again. He is determined to play against Syracuse's biggest rival Clearfield High School in 2 weeks. Rick suggested he take up Chess Club next year in place of football after Rick got the $1300. ambulance bill. Somehow, I just don't see Corbin switching it up like that. :)

Syracuse High Schools record so far 3-1
GO TITANS!
Corbin doing his job in defence.

Run For Your Heart

2009-09-12T14:00:00.000-07:00

Run...Swim....Bike

Well, I've done a few races this year that I haven't talked about, so here goes.

Woman of Steel:
I did this race in the spring, but I didn't get a chance to talk about it because....Rick erased my pictures, and I had to wait until Rachel sent me one. This was my first tri. It was a mini tri. I'd never make it on a real one. I just can't swim all that well. It was a 300 meter swim (don't laugh), 12.4 bike, and 5K run. I did it in 1:20. It was fun. I made a new friend Angela Porter during all of this. She helped me train for the swimming. We would swim at 9:00 pm. and it about killed me. I also met Angela's friend Rachel. We had fun hanging out and carb-loading the night before. Here we are just after the race.
Rachel, Angela, me.

Top of Utah:
So, then I helped Angela out a bit. She decided to run her first 1/2 marathon, so I thought it would be fun to go along and support her. We did Top of Utah 1/2 marathon. We stayed at Rachel's house the night before, and I got to know her and some of her awesome friends. We carb-loaded and laughed all night long. It was a great time. I'm so happy I went. It was a great race and I would love to do it again next year. Angela's time was 2:16. I was so proud of her. She did so well. Here we are at the start, and a couple from the race.
Me and Angela on the bus ride up to the top.

Top of Utah

The people on our bus. They thought I was crazy. They loved my flash going off while they were still 1/2 asleep.

Our group up at the top.

Rachel and her sister Leslie running

It really was a beautiful race, and I'm totally doing it again.

Thanks Rachel for letting us stay at your darling home. I enjoyed myself so much.

The Classic:

I did this race today and maybe I'll add a pic if I ever find one. So many of my great workout friends ran this race: Stacy Strong, Teresa Odekirk, Steph Buckway, Lois and Mike Cattleman, and Leesa Stofferahn. I loved this race. You do all the up hill at the start...my kind of race. My unofficial time is 50:24. I can't wait to run again with my friends in the Snow Canyon 1/2.

My baby is 19

2009-09-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Challis' birthday is Aug 22, so my post is a bit late. We had a family lunch for his birthday at Chili's. If you are wondering where Challis has been in all of my posts...well, he moved out this summer. He has a place in Layton with a couple of his friends. It's a bachelor pad for sure. It smells bad and all. The place is a wreck. But, he says he enjoys his freedom, as most young people do. He's working at Smith's still and is attending Weber St. My greatest concern is that he seems to keep loosing weight. Without someone to feed him on a regular basis, he just seems to forget to eat. I don't understand it, as I'm always looking forward to my next feeding, but it clearly is the case. 6 foot 1 inch and 130 lbs seems pretty thin. So, if you see him. Please feed him.
Channy, Chal, Corb

The Bachelor Pad

Who are you at the ZOO?

2009-08-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

Rick's Work Party

Rick's work did a work party at the Hogle Zoo this past weekend. You can really tell our family is getting older. Chantel was the only one we could get to go with us, and the deal breaker was that she had to be able to bring a friend, so Montana came with us.

The party started off with a little face painting. You could be painted like any animal in the zoo. I have to say, the people were quite talented. The girls looked really cute.
Channy getting painted

Montana

Both girls

I enjoyed the zoo. I love looking at all the animals, but I do feel kinda bad that they are all caged up for my viewing pleasure. Still I do have my favorites.

The Meerkat: I am fascinated by the Meerkats. I became addicted to this show I started watching at my many visits to the Dr.'s office with Corbin. It's called Meerkat Manor, and it's on Animal Planet. Seriously, it's like an animal soap opera. Love it! So, I had to take a pic of this little guy.

The Giraffes : They are the coolest; Those long necks are amazing. There was a new baby with her mom, and I could have stayed all day and watched. They were so dang cute. I got a pic of this little nuzzle. What a loving moment.

Bears and Elephants: As a kid the bears were my favorite, but they never move. We had after hours passes, so the animals were up and moving, so that was fun for a change. I was most excited to see the new baby elephant that was recently born at the zoo, but, NO! They did not have her out. There were a few animals missing that used to be there. My all time favorite was the Hippopotamus. I love how fat they are, but Hogle Zoo got rid of there hippo, and I missed it terribly.

We also had dinner and watched bird show, but the girls said the best thing was the Merry-go-round. They rode it over and over, and over.

Rick and me at the bird show.

It turned out to be a fun time and Corbin must have missed us after all because he sure called a lot. :)

A Visit to Aunt Tammy♠

2009-08-09T08:25:00.000-07:00

Davenport Washington

We went for a visit to Rick's sister Tammy's house. We've never been to visit and they finished building a new home in the past year, so we thought it was about time. Rick, Corbin, Corbin's friend, and I went. It was fun for the boys to see some small town living. Some parts they liked, and some parts they didn't like so much.

I personally am a huge fan of small town living. I love the little houses and the fact that you can know everyone in town. The small family owned businesses are so personal, and I prefer a slower pace to life, but I think someone forgot to tell Tammy that's what small towns are all about because that family goes 100 miles an hour (and most of them in a car getting to the next event.)

Corbin wanted to move in with Tammy for one reason and one reason alone....The Bike! I'm not a fan of motorcycles, and will never own one, so Corbin took full advantage of the opportunity to ride. Thanks Austin for sharing your bike with him. He really enjoyed it.

My favorite part of the trip was the Hiawatha Trail. I loved this! I wish it was close to my house. I'd use it all the time. The Hiawatha trail was absolutely beautiful! It's a wonderfully maintained bike trail that goes along the railway that used to exist from Taft Montana to Idaho. We rode bikes on the trail, but I'd love to run it. The views from the trestle's are breath taking. The only thing I'd really do different would be to use better lighting through the tunnels (there are several). It was a little scary not being able to see where you were going. I really hope I get to do it again someday. I'm sure Rick would like to do it again also. He ended up riding Austin's broken BMX bike the last 1/2 of the ride, and didn't have much fun at all.

Rick's favorite part was Roosevelt Lake. He flipped over it (see pic). Roosevelt Lake was beautiful also. We really had fun there. Rick really loves the water, so he enjoyed this part of the trip the most. We rented a pontoon boat and cruised the lake. We tried to pull some tubes and got a lot of laughs at the kids expense, but he best part was cliff jumping. What fun.

Corbin tried to flip. :)

Tammy and Boots

Corbin and Ryan

Corbin was almost underwater and Ryan sat back with his seeds and had a good time. It was so funny.

Austin

The worst part of the cliff diving was climbing up the cliff. This is Ryan going up.

Tammy and Rick jumping. It took Tammy a little while to work up the courage, but she did it!

Austin jumping

Corbin doing a toe touch.

Me and Cole....Cole talked me into it.

Ryan the muscle man.

It really was beautiful.

We enjoyed our visit, and hope to get there to visit more often. When we left we took Amanda (Rick's niece), back home with us for a week. We enjoyed several activities with her and enjoyed her company. Here she is with Corbin at the airport ready to go home.

Holiday fun

2009-08-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

The 4th of July.

It's one of my favorite holidays, the 4th. It's warm you can BBQ and hang out until late playing games. And then the night ends with a big bang. What better day could you have? So that's just what we did. We had our good friends the Saddlers over along with the Brother's family. It was fun.

We played a few games. Had a BBQ, and went to the Davis High Fire works.

The kids played while the food cooked, and put on some holiday spirit. Here Madison Saddler and Chantel show off their handy work.

Chantel plays a game before dinner.

Then we ate. There really is nothing like sharing a good meal with the Saddlers....as you can see.
What's up with putting things up their noses????
Steve.

Taylor.

Rick.

Corbin.

Dessert.

Then it was off to the fireworks. Davis High had the worst fireworks ever, but we still had a good time.
Channy, Madison, and Kin

The Brother's family

Brenda and Steve.

Rick and I

It was a fun 4th.

2009-08-02T16:25:00.000-07:00

One Night Stand....AGAIN! Woooohooo! (Ragnar)

2009-08-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

Ragnar 2009 Wasatchback

Well, we did it again 187.9 miles of running, friends, fun, and pure exhaustion. We (Rick and I) ran for team One Night Stand again. If you're wondering where we got the name....well, one of your runners is standing all night long. A team has 2 vehicles, and 12 runners (6 in each vehicle). The race is a relay. I have to say it's one of the best races out there. I had an even better time the "second time around". We laughed, cheered, supported each other, showered with each other (girls with girls...if ya know what I mean), ate together, ran together, and slept very little together. Who thought running could be such a freakin' good time? K, the shower was a little weird, but when you're dirty, and exceptionally tired....you just go along with it, and try not to dwell on the fact you're bare-ass naked for the world to see. Then when you're clean and refreshed, it's all just a foggy memory. Let's face it, I'm still traumatized by the whole thing. And yet, I still can't wait to do it again....the race....not the shower.

I love that I get to do a race where I actually get to see Rick. Rick is a much better runner than I am. He pulled 6:30 min miles on his first leg then slowed to about 7 min miles for his next 2 as he wore down. But, I was really proud of him. I enjoyed seeing him run and cheering him on. Here Rick is giving a "thumbs up". That means he is feeling fine and does not require attention or water.

It's one of the most beautiful races out there. The scenery is breathtaking at points going over 6 mountain passes. And some of it you don't see at all because it's pitch black out, and you pray you are still going in the right direction...I'm just gonna say....I may have lost track of which way the road was going at some point. You wear head lamps, and can only see about a foot in front of you. Here I am in celebration of 21 kills I got running up East Canyon. A kill is = to the runners you pass - the runners that passed you. I was pretty happy. I didn't get any kills on my first run. Van 1 was all about kills. We were stoked when we got tom mark a kill on our vehicle.

Here you can see the red markings going around the window "kill markings".

Here are a couple of my favorite scenery pics.

The things I'll remember most about this year's race, besides the shower and the kills are...When I got to exchange 30 and van 2 wasn't there. They had gone to the wrong exchange. Here I am with no one to hand off my slap bracelet to.

I'll also remember the rain. It just started to rain on my last leg, but it poured on van 2, and they froze their butts off. Last year it was so hot. I'm not complaining. I think this year was so much better as far as weather goes. Here is Chris running in a down pour.

I'll remember Rich riding with us because his team was busy putting one of their own in an ambulance. Here's Rich.

But most of all I'll remember what a great time we had. Thanks so much to our team. They are all great people.
Van1
Rick Gatten, Tiffany Gatten, Stacy Strong, Jeff VonCollin, Vic Jensen, and Ray Holt.

Van 2
Maria Weller, Teresa Odekirk, Stephanie Buckway, Missy Nichols, Craig Nichols, and Chris Nichols.

One Night Stand

Leaving Elementary Behind and Looking Forward to Jr. High

2009-07-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

6th Grade Graduation

Chantel graduated from 6th grade this year, and I think I'm as happy as she is to be done with Elementary. Chantel went to all 7 years of grammar school at Bluff Ridge Elementary. It was a brand new school when Channy started school. It's a very bright, fun school to get an education in and we've considered ourselves lucky to have had our children attend school there.

Channy's graduation was a 50's Sock Hop theme, and the kids did a great job on the program. Grandma and Grandpa Dorman attend along with myself. I thought I may shed a tear or two at the ending of an era in our lives, but....not one. :) Maybe I'll leave that to another day.

When I think back on this year, I'll remember it most as the year Chantel discovered boys...lots of boys. She just can't stop talking about them.

Channy sitting on the stage steps before the program.

Channy's been lucky to have had so many great friends along the way through Elementary. We live in a great community with great families....a very diverse community with Hill Air Force Base so close by. Channy has learned so much from her friends and their families. And we've all enjoyed getting to know these cute girls.

Hanna, has been Chantel's friend since they were 2 years old.

One of Chantel's favorite parts of 6th grade was DARE. Officer Penrod, AKA Officer Stanley is by far the most popular individual at Bluff Ridge. Channy thinks he walks on water.

Channy with her grandparents. She was so happy they came.

Chantel and her loving mother.

One last hug from Mrs. Sorte. I'm pretty sure she's glad I don't have any more children. She is a great teacher and I'm very grateful to her for all of her hard work.

Channy was so happy to be done with another year of school she danced with Janelle.

These girls are so excited to move on to Jr. High. They will attend Legacy Jr. High (if it's finished in time) It's looking like a beautiful school. Chantel can hardly wait. Jr. High...here she comes.

Snow Shack Baby!

2009-07-16T22:32:00.000-07:00

Every teenager needs a summer job and this year Corbin's manning the Snow Shack at Lowe's in Layton. He's one heck of a snow cone maker. They are icy and delish!

It can get lonely when there are no customers.
It's been slow lately so stop by and see him Wed and Fri nights...

....bring a large tip. :) He needs the money.

We sure enjoyed our visit recently. Cooled us right off, and it's been hot, hot, hot!

Never fear, I didn't break my diet....they have sugarfree.....that's right.....sugarfree....run don't walk!

Channy, Kort and Cole highly recommend it.

Cheers! Come get yours before summer's over.

Family Pool Party (at Tom's)

2009-07-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

Our last day with Donna was at a Pool Party that Tom and Brooke put together. We had quite a turn out, and a ton of fun.

Tom and Brooke have a community pool and rec facility that we were able to use. It was the perfect place to get together have some fun in the sun and eat. We started off at the pool. Here are some pics of Tom torturing, I mean playing with his children.

Matt and Misty getting out of the pool so we can go and eat.

Channy giving her dad a hug while he visits.

Rick and Uncle Jay. Uncle Jay always has an entertaining story or a joke....must have been a good one.

Then we were off to eat. The best part of any party.

Brooke made a great salad, and Alisha enjoyed some also.

I think Donna and Wendy were glad to see everyone. They seemed to enjoy themselves.

Aunt Tora helps out with the pizza. We were lucky to see Nate and Annette and their family who just happened to be in town. Misty helps Hailee get some dinner.

Aiden, Caden, and Kara filling up on chips.

Amber.....how does she stay skinny and eat pizza? Lucky girl.

Cute little Em found a great place to eat.

I wish you could have heard the conversation the little boys were having. They were making me laugh. I think they had the best time of all.

After dinner some visited and some played a game of volley ball. The kids had a great time learning to serve the ball and the men that played were very patient.

Others enjoyed the playground.

In the end we were all tired and there were a few tears when it was time to leave.

We all got in our cars to go (Mylee in her's), and were so grateful to have spent time together.

Thanks for a great time guys....all our love to you until next time.

Syracuse Days

2009-07-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

That's right, we put on a parade and fireworks when we have visitors. Syracuse Heritage Days was going on while Donna the kids and Wendy came to visit, so we went. The kids loved the parade, well mostly the candy, and the adults enjoyed the fresh air and entertainment.

We all enjoyed the doughnuts, but no one enjoyed them more then Rylie. That girl enjoys food I tell ya.

Ry, shoving it in her mouth. NUM, NUM.

She also loves a big kiss from her grandmother.

Tiff's mom and Steve came.

Kathy Brothers, Cole, and Corbin were there too.

Along with Stacy Brothers, and Seth.

Spencer was there for the candy.

Donna, Kara, Aiden, and Jason waiting in the shade for the parade to start.

Rick and his mom.

Rick and Donna

Then the Parade started. You can see the thrill of a parade on Aiden's face as he watches the fire trucks go by.

Then the scramble for candy began....That's really what a parade is all about. Aiden, Kara, and Spencer making the mad dash to beat other kids to the loot.

Jason isn't sure what you do with more than 2 pieces of candy when he's handed a third.

But he figured it out...put one in your mouth.

Kara watching the parade go by.

I think she ended up with her fair share of candy.

Aiden had his fair share too.

But, he left in unattended and Jason tried to haul it off. It was so cute.

The parade wasn't all about the candy though. We came to watch the people we knew in the parade also. Channy and Kylee were on a float, and Rylie got swept away by her grandma Retta down the parade route.

Cute little Kort was in it also. She was all sweetness and smiles until Corbin started bellowing out, "Titan's RULE!" (Kort is a cheerleader for Clearfield, the Titan's rivals) She gave him a dirty look....Good for her.

It was a great parade. The fireworks however left much to be desired. We had to watch them from the car because there were so many mosquitoes outside. When will they ever get them under control!?

Another Day...Another Adventure.

2009-07-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

Layton Park

Day two we planed to go to the Dinosaur Park, but the forecast was...RAIN! And then, it didn't rain. so we went to the Layton Park at the last minute. We grabbed Tiffany's niece (Rylie) and went to play.

We love Layton Park with its pathways along a little river where you can feed the ducks and climb a tree or two. They also have a great playground.

You can see in Kara's eyes she really had a great time even though she wanted to go to the dinosaur park more than anyone. She's just a sweet little thing.

She's getting a little sand out of her shoes here, but never a complaint.

Tiff's niece Rylie was just as sweet. She enjoyed every second of the park.

You can see by Rylie's smile she always loves the outdoors.

She's a curious little thing and wants you to go where she chooses to explore.

I think she ate more bread than the ducks....She does enjoy food. :)

Jason had a great time too. He really liked the ducks.

He's a little climber.

Guess Jason got his love for climbing from his brother Aidan. He was always up a tree.

Aidan waited patiently for his turn to dig in the sand, and I think it was wort the wait.

Wendy and Donna were just happy for the kids to get out some of their energy. Three kids really can wear you out.

All and all the day wasn't lost, just delayed. We all enjoyed the fresh air.

A little Visit

2009-07-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Last week Rick's mother, sister (Donna), and her kids (Aidan, Kara, and Jason) came for a little visit. It's a good thing Challis moved out so we could have 2 guest rooms. :) It was good to see them all. It's amazing how fast kids grow when you you only see them every couple of years.

Our first adventure was to Roy Water Park. It has rained almost every day here this summer, but we got a few hours reprieve and took advantage of it. It was cold when you were wet and the wind kicked up, but the kids toughed it out. Even Wendy (Rick's mom) got in. Ok, I was the only one that isn't that brave. :)

Wendy, Kara, and Channy (We got Channy out of school to go. Lucky girl.)

Aidan. He got cold, but he did go down the BIG slide.

Channy, Tiff, and Wendy.

Rick and Donna. Rick got off work early and surprised us. We were happy he came.

Kara. I think Kara liked the treats as much as the water. In my opinion, Kara may have enjoyed the whole trip better than anyone else. She was a good little thing.

Channy had a great time playing in the water with Kara.

Rick and Tiff.

In the end, another storm rolled in with full force winds and we cleared out of there at the speed of light. We had fun, even if it only lasted a few hours.

Waterfall Canyon

2009-06-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

This spring all the members of our family have enjoyed hikes to Waterfall Canyon in the Ogden Wasatch Mountains. This year we have had a tremendous amount of rain, so the rivers are ready to spill over the banks. All this water makes for a spectacular waterfall.

If you've never made the hike, you really need to. You must do it soon though because as the summer goes on the waterfall pretty much dries up.

Corbin and Kortney hiked it for a fun day date, and got lost. They really had a good time though, and said it was worth all their efforts.

I took Channy and a couple of her friends one day. They complained the whole way up. They said, "They were going to throw up and die!" But once we reached the fall everything was forgotten. On the way down, they said, "This is the best day I ever had. Thanks so much for taking us."

Challis and Rick have also been up this spring. I think its definitely a family favorite. We suggest you head on over the the 29th st. Trail head and get hiking!!! But beware of the scenic route....you may get lost....We all did. :)

High School at 40.

2009-06-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

Lunch with high school girlfriends.

My best friend from high school, Chris Teeslink, came in town this week. I hadn't seen her in 19 years. So, I invited some of our other friends from high school and put together a lunch. It was so good to see all of them. Some of them I hadn't seen in 23 years. They are all wonderful women. It was fun to see how we had, and hadn't changed.

Becoming mothers changed every one of us, and all of us are in different stages of motherhood. Chris is a new mother to a five month old son that is just darling, while Laura is the mother of a young man in his mid twenties that has a son of his own. She seemed to be over joyed with being a grandmother.

Some of my friends are seasoned career women Like Kim, and some have recently graduated and started careers like Jill and Laura who are now teachers. Some enjoy being self-employed like Heather, Crystal, Diane. Some of us are perfectly content to employ all of our energies in the title of Mother... for now, like Rebbecca, me, and Chris who has taken a hiatus from nursing to attend to her new son.

I think we are all somewhat the same. After all, we carry our past in our present, and we are all bound by our childhoods and those friendships. I could see the in their eyes, smiles, and laughter the beautiful young girls who were my childhood friends.....All of their faces just slightly weathered by life.

We all have had our challenges in life, some with heavier burdens than others, but I felt like all of us radiated love and happiness. We haven't been broken. And, at this stage of life, our 40's, we are all focused on our inner beauty. Our focus now is on love, health, and happiness, and not so much on our hair or clothes. I found each woman absolutely beautiful....more beautiful than ever. I soaked in the richness of the difference, likeness, and absolute uniqueness of each individual. What lovely women these girls have grown to be.

What a wonderful way to spend a few hours. I only wish I had the opportunity to see them more often, especially my friend Chris who now lives in Arizona. She was always such a giving, loving friend. There is still nothing like her hug. I missed her terribly, but I'm so grateful she is so happy now.

Thank you ladies for a wonderful lunch.

Me, and my best friend from high school, Chris Teeslink

Heather, Becca, and Diane

Crystal, and Kim

Jill, Chris, me, Laura

Once is enough!

2009-06-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Ogden Marathon.

Rick ran the Ogden Marathon last month. It was his first Marathon ever. Rick is a great runner, but even this was tough for him. He had a great first 1/2 running fast and strong, but then the cramping set in going into the canyon. He struggled with his second 1/2. The cramping made him stop and go the whole way. A stranger helped out giving him electrolyte tables, and Rick credits the stranger's help with letting him finish. Somehow, there's always that special stranger who helps out....thank heavens for them. Rick stopped about 100 ft from the finish trying to find the will to finish....he eventually found it and finished 3:39. We couldn't be more proud. He said, "Never again!" Honestly, he's only run one time in the last month. I think it took everything out of him. But, he'd better get running soon, he has a race in 10 days (Ragnar.)
Rick after his finish.

My mom, Channy, Cole, and Corbin came out to support him.

Did They Say It's The FUN SHIP?

2009-05-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Cold Cruise

Well, for those of you that don't know, Rick and I were supposed to have a wonderful romantic trip to hot and sexy Mexico. BUT, then came the piggy flu (swine flu), and Carnival decided to take us to cold, rainy, depressing San Fransisco, Seattle, and Victoria Canada.

We really didn't want to go, but they gave us a great deal to go to their "Cold Cruise", so we said, "What the heck, it's free, and we can eat a lot." So, we went, and it was cold, wet, depressing, and we ate a lot. Don't get me wrong, it had it's moments of laughter and fun and the company was good. We went with our long time friends the Saddlers, and our new friends the Nyes. We all made the best of it, and I gained 4lbs, so you know the food was good.

We started out at Long Beach, CA.

The whole Group, Troy, Kristi, Steve, Brenda, Me and Rick in front of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was really cool to pass under it in the ship. When we left that night we got in the hot tub, in the rain and passed under it in the dark with the lights on.....pretty romantic.

We went to Alcatraz while in San Fran, and even though this was a prison, the island is really beautiful. The families that lived here must have enjoyed the spectacular views.

Rick in the prison. We've been to Alcatraz before, but it's always amazing to see how the men here lived day to day.

We also spent some time at Pier 39 eating clam chowder and shopping.

We watched the seals bark and play king of the mountain.

We climbed the hills of San Fransisco and walked down Lombard street. It's supposed to be the most crooked street in the world, but I found out...it's not even the most crooked street in San Fran....Whatever we still saw it and it was pretty.

I found this. It's funny and entertaining and you get to see more of the street.

Then it was on to Victoria Canada. I'd never been and it really was beautiful, but it rained the whole time and I had to wear 5 layers it was so cold.

We went to this awesome castle. Craigdarroch Castle was beautiful. I love architecture and old homes, so this was a real treat for me. It was really well done, and I recommend visiting if your there.

Then we were off to Seattle. I probably enjoyed Seattle the most. We had the best weather that day. We went up in the space needle to take a look around. It was about $30 to go to the top. A ridiculous amount of money for what you do...ride up and look around, but it's what you do, so we did it.

We walked along the piers and then went to Pike Market. I really wish I lived there just so I could buy the beautiful flowers and eat fresh seafood. It was a blast.

We did get some rest and relaxation on the fun ship. We spent a day in the sun. The boys played ping pong and the girls sat, soaked up sun and read.

All in all, it was a good time, and Rick and I enjoyed our time together. We do plan to try the ship in Mexico next year, but we told the kids they could come, so it won't be exactly what we planned originally. Below: Troy, Kristi, Brenda, Steve, me and Rick.

Rick and I

Brenda and Steve

Kristi and Troy

One thing is for sure, we'll have some great memories.

The top ten things I'll remember about the trip.
10. All of us dancing at the disco
9. Brenda smacking the golf ball as hard as she could on the ship.
8. Getting sea sick the second day.
7. The great exchange rate Steve got at the gas station when we bought candy bars.
6. The disturbing statue at pier 79 in Seattle.
5. How beautiful Victoria was.
4. The Jam Kristi bought for Mother's Day that they took away from Kristi at the airport.
3. How much I ate.
2. How relaxed I was.
1. Below: the pic of Brenda in front of the elevator that broke and we fell in along with the claustrophobic woman. :)

I am glad we went. Thanks honey. I love you, and thanks to the Saddler's and the Nye's. Misery always loves company.

Run Like You Stole It!

2009-04-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

Or run like you stole my dream....
So, I had a goal this year to finish in the top 3 overall in my age division in the Strider's Winter Racing Circuit. It's 5 races, 5K, 10K, 10 mile, 1/2 marathon, and a 30K. It was all going so well. I was kicking butt. After the 10 mile race, I thought I could really do it....Then I got sick. My 1/2 marathon was a dud, and I knew my chances weren't good after that. My 30 K went well enough, but it wasn't enough to place...I finished 5th. I was fine......Until....Rick, who in the beginning said, "Yeah, I guess I'll sign up, but I don't really want to." Walked next to me and said, "Hey! I took 3rd place overall. *smile*" Is it wrong that I'm not all that happy for him????? *sigh* Whatever!!! I'm trying to be happy for him.

The 30K.
This was our last race, 18.6 miles. Even though Rick took 3rd overall he struggled in this race. He made a huge mistake. He took a GU (It's an energy gel to provide calories and electrolytes for long distance runs) without water. Funny thing, he's made this mistake before...go figure. Anyhow, it makes your intestines cramp and swell. Not a fun experience.....especially if you do it in the first 3 miles of a 18+ run. He finished, but he felt like "you know what" all day and night. His time 2:30. He did announce his retirement from distance running after this race. He said, "People who run over 13.1 miles, and pay money to do it, are just stupid. And after I run Ogden, I'm NEVER doing it again!"

I had a great race! I was on target at mile 16 to beat my time from last year... even though it was raining, and snowing, and freezing. Then...I hit the wall. My body slowed, and started to show signs of dehydration, but I hung on. Mile 18 my left leg cramped, seized, and wouldn't bend. I really thought I'd have to hop-walk .6 miles to finish, but I gave it a little time and it kinda started to work. Needless to say, I didn't beat my time.....but I finished. My time 2:53

I also wanted to give a shout out to my friend, Teresa O., who took 2nd place in her age division...way to go girl!

For those of you that don't know, Rick will be doing his first marathon May 16th, so wish him luck. AND, if you have nothing to do....Go watch him finish. I am doing a sprint Tri that day, and I don't think I'll make it there before he finishes to support him. He should finish between 10:10am and 10:30am. The finish line is at 25th street and Grant in Ogden. Brooke and Tom are running the 1/2 that day if you'd like to see them finish, call them for an approximate finish time.

I Can Dance Too, Ya Know!

2009-04-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Cheer Camp.

Chantel went to Cheer Camp, taught in part by Kortney (Corbin's girlfriend) who is a cheerleader at Clearfield High. Channy had such a great time learning cheers, and a dance. Then they preformed them at 1/2 time at a Clearfield High basketball game.
Channy

Jazz, Channy, Hanna

Kort

The Girls

Dig It, the 6th grade musical!

Oh, man, was I ever glad for this day to come. Channy and all of her friends had been singing, and dancing, and going over lines in the musical over, and over, and over, and over. Until, I could have had a part myself ....I'd, not by choice, memorized the whole thing. But, she did a great job and we all had a great time watching.

Janelle, and Chantel (They were Egyptian Dancers)

Corbin and Grandma Dorman

Grandpa Dorman and Kylee(Channy's cousin)

The Dance

The End~

Let's DANCE!

2009-04-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

Syracuse Prom 2009

There's nothing like your first Prom, or your first tux. Corbin was sooooooo excited to go. If you remember a couple of posts ago he asked his "Special Lady Friend" (We just call her his girlfriend...Kortney) to the Prom, and she said yes.

I had a great time going to pick out the tux with Corbin and his BFF, Cole. They were so cute. They could hardly believe they had to wear their pants soooooo high up on their hips. But, they really looked sharp. Such handsome boys.

I wish I would have taken a picture of all of the parents there taking pics. We were so happy for them....and kinda sad that they are so old.

Kortney looked beautiful in a bejeweled hot pink dress, and long curled locks.
We all really love Kort at our house.

Corb and Kort are so cute together.

Cole took Marysa. She looked beautiful also.

And the Flowers were beautiful.

The 4 of them together.

Some of the group they went with.

And off they went.....Did I forget to mention....Corbin's a driver now!!!!

I think they had a good time.....I'm still waiting for Corbin to come through the door....A mother's work never ends...even though she turns back into a pumpkin after midnight.

I Hope They Stretch!

2009-04-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

No, that's not what I meant.......I meant...I hope they really, really stretch!!

That's what you wanna here on your 40th birthday! THANKS BRENDA!

She was talking about my Pearl Izumi Tri shorts I got for my birthday, and YES! THEY FIT! THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

I turned 40 this past week, and no big deal. It's only 40. The really good thing about 40 is...no one expects you to look good anymore....that's a plus....right?! And, like my friend Andrea said, "Now you can move into the 40-60 category running, and you should do well there." If she didn't live in Texas....I'd hit her.....The other good thing, you forget easy, so you don't have a lot of stress anymore. It's all good....I just hope I don't break a hip or anything.

I had a wonderful Birthday lunch at Mimi's. My BFF put on for me, and I'd show you some pics...if anyone would send them to me.

I also had a fun dinner at Chili's with the family, Brenda's family, Melissa, and Kortney. And, seriously, I'm lovin' 40! Thanks to everyone for all the birthday wishes....they mean the most to the old people.

My shorts Brenda insulted me about.

The "Special Bib" our waiter made for me.

He still loves me...even if I am old.

Chal and Melissa

Corb and Kort

Channy, and Brenda's girls Madi, and Kin

Me and Kin

The whole group.