As I was walking down the street on my way to the dentist, I found a 5 pound note!! (That's like a $5 bill, only worth more!) I looked around and no one was around. I wanted to return it to the poor person who dropped it.
Standing halfway down the block was a guy selling "The Big Issue". It is a magazine that you buy from people who are homeless or low income people. This magazine gives them an opportunity to make money and earn a living. I really like the idea of it. Hopefully the guy does something good with the money.
I felt good when I handed it to him, and I was hoping that the positive Karma would be with me as I went into the dentist. The dentist went well. I was pleased with her work, other than the realization that the silver filling is made up of 50% Mercury! So if I go crazy in my older years, this may be why!!
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Friday, 18 September 2009
My Thesis is Submitted!
I am sure you have noticed that I have been fairly quiet over the summer... Well, basically, I have been trying to get my PhD thesis finished up.
Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 PM, 2 years, 11 months, and 26 days after I arrived in St Andrews, I finally submitted my thesis. It was approximately 30,001 words and was around 300 pages. It is such a relief.
Here I am posing with the draft I handed in.
The next step is a viva, where I sit in a room with two examiners and answer questions about what I wrote. They can pass you or fail you... I don't think many people fail, but it is still pretty nerve racking!
Then after a few corrections, I will be done. I will keep you posted. My viva is on Oct. 20th, so start getting nervous for me!
Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 PM, 2 years, 11 months, and 26 days after I arrived in St Andrews, I finally submitted my thesis. It was approximately 30,001 words and was around 300 pages. It is such a relief.
Here I am posing with the draft I handed in.
The next step is a viva, where I sit in a room with two examiners and answer questions about what I wrote. They can pass you or fail you... I don't think many people fail, but it is still pretty nerve racking!
Then after a few corrections, I will be done. I will keep you posted. My viva is on Oct. 20th, so start getting nervous for me!
Monday, 14 September 2009
Cambridge
This weekend, I took a train down to Cambridge to attend my friend, Jack's wedding. The weather was beautiful, the ceremony was thought provoking, the strawberries afterward were perfect, the wedding breakfast was delicious, and the reception was good fun (except my feet were SORE!) I met so many great people. I especially enjoyed learning more about the groom and his beautiful bride Karen from the people attending!
Here is a picture of me and the groom. (I loved the dress I bought for the occasion. I even had matching purple shoes.)
(Sorry the picture is blurry, but you get the idea...)
Here is the happy couple, right after the ceremony!
CONGRATULATIONS! :)
Here is a picture of me and the groom. (I loved the dress I bought for the occasion. I even had matching purple shoes.)
(Sorry the picture is blurry, but you get the idea...)Here is the happy couple, right after the ceremony!
CONGRATULATIONS! :)
X-Factor
So, the X-Factor is Britain's version of American Idol. Instead of going to sleep tonight, I have been watching clips from this season, here is the grabber of the season so far...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqbGdgyEibs&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqbGdgyEibs&feature=related
Friday, 24 July 2009
I better put my shoes on...
Our clothes dryer stopped heating, so the company was going to send out a "service engineer" to fix the problem.
Today, Tim and I spent our time sitting and waiting for the "service engineer" to show up. I got sooo bored, I started making cookies. They were delicious! Anyway, he was supposed to be coming between 1 and 3. (He came at 3:10).
As soon as I saw him pull up, I told Tim. He immediately jumped up and said... "I better go put my shoes on, so I am at my maximum height!"
What?!
He then ran into the other room and couldn't find his shoes (I had been so bored earlier that I was cleaning and put them away!) So he came bounding back and said, "I can't find them, how am I supposed to be at my maximum height?"
I told him where they were and asked why he needed them.
He straight-faced told me that, as a man, it is better to be taller... Didn't I notice that when men first meet, they puff their chests out and try to look bigger? Bigger is definitely better?
I started laughing at this, thinking he was just making it up, but he wasn't.
He ran into the other room and put his shoes on, so he could be taller than the engineer. I laughed (to myself) when the guy came in... He was probably 5'5". Good thing Tim put his shoes on!
Today, Tim and I spent our time sitting and waiting for the "service engineer" to show up. I got sooo bored, I started making cookies. They were delicious! Anyway, he was supposed to be coming between 1 and 3. (He came at 3:10).
As soon as I saw him pull up, I told Tim. He immediately jumped up and said... "I better go put my shoes on, so I am at my maximum height!"
What?!
He then ran into the other room and couldn't find his shoes (I had been so bored earlier that I was cleaning and put them away!) So he came bounding back and said, "I can't find them, how am I supposed to be at my maximum height?"
I told him where they were and asked why he needed them.
He straight-faced told me that, as a man, it is better to be taller... Didn't I notice that when men first meet, they puff their chests out and try to look bigger? Bigger is definitely better?
I started laughing at this, thinking he was just making it up, but he wasn't.
He ran into the other room and put his shoes on, so he could be taller than the engineer. I laughed (to myself) when the guy came in... He was probably 5'5". Good thing Tim put his shoes on!
Saturday, 18 July 2009
Our Mini Meal
I haven't posted in ages, because I have been traveling everywhere! I wanted to tell this little story that happened today though...
Tim and I went to Burger King for a little snack (we skipped lunch and wanted a tide-me-over before dinner)
Tim couldn't decide what he wanted, I told him he should order the six mini angus burger meal. However, he finally decided on a regular, full-size Angus Burger.
So I ordered my Whopper Jr, and then Tim told the guy he wanted an Angus burger. The guy motioned toward the six burger thing, and Tim said "No, I just want a plain Angus burger".
"You want a Plain Angus burger," said the little Burger King employee
"Yeah, but with cheese" said Tim
We went and sat down, and pretty soon, our order came up.
I opened my Whopper Jr. It was the smallest thing I have EVER seen! I mean, this thing was smaller than a plain cheeseburger at McDonalds! So I called it my Whopper Mini! (Might I add that this thing was 2.74 british pounds)
Tim then opened his treat... A bun, some meat and of course the cheese!
The guy had ordered Tim a PLAIN ANGUS BURGER, not a regular one! The thing was nothing but a burger, a bun, and a slice of cheese. It was soooo funny! I laughed even harder when I realized that it cost over 4 pounds! We were laughing SOOO hard!
We ordered some regular fries, so our whole mini meal was over 8 pounds, but I tell ya, it was definitely worth the laugh!
Tim and I went to Burger King for a little snack (we skipped lunch and wanted a tide-me-over before dinner)
Tim couldn't decide what he wanted, I told him he should order the six mini angus burger meal. However, he finally decided on a regular, full-size Angus Burger.
So I ordered my Whopper Jr, and then Tim told the guy he wanted an Angus burger. The guy motioned toward the six burger thing, and Tim said "No, I just want a plain Angus burger".
"You want a Plain Angus burger," said the little Burger King employee
"Yeah, but with cheese" said Tim
We went and sat down, and pretty soon, our order came up.
I opened my Whopper Jr. It was the smallest thing I have EVER seen! I mean, this thing was smaller than a plain cheeseburger at McDonalds! So I called it my Whopper Mini! (Might I add that this thing was 2.74 british pounds)
Tim then opened his treat... A bun, some meat and of course the cheese!
The guy had ordered Tim a PLAIN ANGUS BURGER, not a regular one! The thing was nothing but a burger, a bun, and a slice of cheese. It was soooo funny! I laughed even harder when I realized that it cost over 4 pounds! We were laughing SOOO hard!
We ordered some regular fries, so our whole mini meal was over 8 pounds, but I tell ya, it was definitely worth the laugh!
Sunday, 10 May 2009
Happy Birthday Chareen!
My co-worker's (Upulani) son turned 1 this weekend. She asked me to help her decorate a Thomas the Train Engine cake. I was a little nervous, because it was such an important event and I am a rookie cake decorator! It took 5 hours, but she was patient and did an amazing job! I gave her a few tips as she went along and colored the icing for her, so she could concentrate on the design, but she did the WHOLE thing! I was so proud of her! Here are a few pictures.
The beginning
Putting the pieces together
The background icing
Posing with the cake
Cake close up...
Her husband and son loved it! He was so cute, he gets so excited when he sees Thomas and gets this BIG grin!
We had a great time and it was good to have Upu over for some girl time fun! :)
The beginning
Putting the pieces together
The background icing
Posing with the cake
Cake close up...
Her husband and son loved it! He was so cute, he gets so excited when he sees Thomas and gets this BIG grin!We had a great time and it was good to have Upu over for some girl time fun! :)
Monday, 4 May 2009
Collector
I have inherited the "collector gene" from my parents (who inherited it from their parents!)
My mom's main collection is egg plates and cookie jars.
My dad, well, we all know about my dad's collection habits, although, you may not know about the silver spoons or the brass bells...
I have grown up going to Finders Keepers, Yard Sales, The DI, The Swap Meet, Auctions, and any other place that sells "treasures". The best part is coming home and showing off your "goods" to whoever in the family decided not to go.
The saying in our house is "If it's free, it's for me!" When I was younger, if my grandparents took us to yard sales, they gave us $1. The game was to see what we could get or how far we could stretch it. Jackie (my littlest sister) has acquired the best technique for getting a bargain. In fact, my dad started taking her to auctions to bid for him. This started after he realized what an asset she was... At a school district auction she wanted Spelling books, so my dad told her to bid. She bid $1 and no one had the heart to bid against a cute little girl. From then on, at all of the auctions, she got whatever she wanted. She had all the guys wrapped around her little finger!
My favorite bargain I got at a Swap Meet was a set of porcelain Snow White and the Seven Dwarf figurines that still sit on top of my dresser. They wanted $10 for them, and I talked them down to $5!!
Sometimes you get lucky with a bargain, like the figurines... and other times, not so lucky, like an auction where my dad bid on and "won" 50 pairs of size 9 narrow army boots! (which we still have a few dozen of!)
Even now, I love going into charity shops, salvation armies, antique fairs, and I am hoping to start going to Car Boot Sales this summer. I get sooo excited at the deals I can find!
In fact, just Sunday, in my latest adventure, I walked into an Antique Fair and look at this little treasure I came away with. (Sorry the picture isn't great.) For only £1, this cool, metal thimble has a little man standing on top next to a light pole. The light has a crystal that looking straight on, it looks red and from the sides, clear. He is standing in front of two bags. The left one says "nuts", the right has indents (probably for the needle). On the front of the thimble, there is an engraving of a horse and carriage, and on the back a light pole is engraved.
Hmmmm, maybe I will have to start a thimble collection, this just might be my first of many! ;)
My mom's main collection is egg plates and cookie jars.
My dad, well, we all know about my dad's collection habits, although, you may not know about the silver spoons or the brass bells...
I have grown up going to Finders Keepers, Yard Sales, The DI, The Swap Meet, Auctions, and any other place that sells "treasures". The best part is coming home and showing off your "goods" to whoever in the family decided not to go.
The saying in our house is "If it's free, it's for me!" When I was younger, if my grandparents took us to yard sales, they gave us $1. The game was to see what we could get or how far we could stretch it. Jackie (my littlest sister) has acquired the best technique for getting a bargain. In fact, my dad started taking her to auctions to bid for him. This started after he realized what an asset she was... At a school district auction she wanted Spelling books, so my dad told her to bid. She bid $1 and no one had the heart to bid against a cute little girl. From then on, at all of the auctions, she got whatever she wanted. She had all the guys wrapped around her little finger!
My favorite bargain I got at a Swap Meet was a set of porcelain Snow White and the Seven Dwarf figurines that still sit on top of my dresser. They wanted $10 for them, and I talked them down to $5!!
Sometimes you get lucky with a bargain, like the figurines... and other times, not so lucky, like an auction where my dad bid on and "won" 50 pairs of size 9 narrow army boots! (which we still have a few dozen of!)
Even now, I love going into charity shops, salvation armies, antique fairs, and I am hoping to start going to Car Boot Sales this summer. I get sooo excited at the deals I can find!
In fact, just Sunday, in my latest adventure, I walked into an Antique Fair and look at this little treasure I came away with. (Sorry the picture isn't great.) For only £1, this cool, metal thimble has a little man standing on top next to a light pole. The light has a crystal that looking straight on, it looks red and from the sides, clear. He is standing in front of two bags. The left one says "nuts", the right has indents (probably for the needle). On the front of the thimble, there is an engraving of a horse and carriage, and on the back a light pole is engraved.
Hmmmm, maybe I will have to start a thimble collection, this just might be my first of many! ;)
Improving Interview Techniques
I signed up for a course a few months ago called "Improving Interview Techniques" (its on Friday May 8th).
(I had a video conference interview on April 24th.)
My flatmate's reply...
"You don't need a course, your next interview will be a massive improvement on your last one as long as you remember these three things:
1. Send in the right CV. (I realized I had sent in the wrong version 10 minutes before the interview!)
2. Make sure you can sit down or stand up before arranging the interview. (The interview was on a Friday. The week before I was bed ridden and Wednesday afternoon at the physical therapist was the first day I was able to sit.)
3. Don't take Codeine right before you interview. (I was prescribed it as a pain killer and thinking back, I believe my head was definitely in the clouds! I was taking two pills then, and now I am only taking one and my head still feels foggy!)
(I had a video conference interview on April 24th.)
My flatmate's reply...
"You don't need a course, your next interview will be a massive improvement on your last one as long as you remember these three things:
1. Send in the right CV. (I realized I had sent in the wrong version 10 minutes before the interview!)
2. Make sure you can sit down or stand up before arranging the interview. (The interview was on a Friday. The week before I was bed ridden and Wednesday afternoon at the physical therapist was the first day I was able to sit.)
3. Don't take Codeine right before you interview. (I was prescribed it as a pain killer and thinking back, I believe my head was definitely in the clouds! I was taking two pills then, and now I am only taking one and my head still feels foggy!)
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Ten Things...
1. Exercise balls hurt!
All I did was sit on it and wiggle around a bit, but this morning, I laid there... I did not want to get up I was sooo stiff. I stretched for about 30 minutes before I got up.
2. Then for some reason I thought... today, I will try just paracetamol (Tylenol) instead of paracetamol (with codeine) that I was prescribed (see previous post).
I was achy and moody ALL day! I did break down and take one at 3:30, but I almost made it all day!
3. I worked practically a whole day before having to come home and relax. (11-5)
4. My dad sent me another email on one of his purchases... He said he figured I needed something to blog about.
I mean, everyone needs mannequin arms, right? Especially when they are only $2!
4. I like this picture from when I was in Rome earlier this month.
.jpg)
5. I absolutely LOVE Britain's Got Talent, well, they are doing Tay's Got Talent. I am looking for someone (in Scotland) with talent so I can watch them perform. I am definitely going to the final!
http://www.tayfm.co.uk/Article.asp?id=1231939&spid=20587
6. I want a new D-SLR camera and have been shopping for MONTHS, but haven't picked one out or spent the money for one yet.
7. My laptop won't start unless you pick it up, open the CD drive, close the drive and set it down right side first. Yesterday, the screen blacked out for a few minutes, but I talked it back to life. I am thinking of getting a Gateway!
8. I check my email WAY too much and when I get a new one, I usually feel like I shouldn't email straight back, but if I don't, then I forget and don't email back.
9. When you are in pain, it makes you very homesick (and moody). After two weeks, I am feeling MUCH better! However, I realized that I have great friends and my flatmate even put my sock on for me! Now, that is love! :)
10. I am really excited for my visitors this summer! I have already started making plans!
All I did was sit on it and wiggle around a bit, but this morning, I laid there... I did not want to get up I was sooo stiff. I stretched for about 30 minutes before I got up.
2. Then for some reason I thought... today, I will try just paracetamol (Tylenol) instead of paracetamol (with codeine) that I was prescribed (see previous post).
I was achy and moody ALL day! I did break down and take one at 3:30, but I almost made it all day!
3. I worked practically a whole day before having to come home and relax. (11-5)
4. My dad sent me another email on one of his purchases... He said he figured I needed something to blog about.
I mean, everyone needs mannequin arms, right? Especially when they are only $2!4. I like this picture from when I was in Rome earlier this month.
.jpg)
5. I absolutely LOVE Britain's Got Talent, well, they are doing Tay's Got Talent. I am looking for someone (in Scotland) with talent so I can watch them perform. I am definitely going to the final!
http://www.tayfm.co.uk/Article.asp?id=1231939&spid=20587
6. I want a new D-SLR camera and have been shopping for MONTHS, but haven't picked one out or spent the money for one yet.
7. My laptop won't start unless you pick it up, open the CD drive, close the drive and set it down right side first. Yesterday, the screen blacked out for a few minutes, but I talked it back to life. I am thinking of getting a Gateway!
8. I check my email WAY too much and when I get a new one, I usually feel like I shouldn't email straight back, but if I don't, then I forget and don't email back.
9. When you are in pain, it makes you very homesick (and moody). After two weeks, I am feeling MUCH better! However, I realized that I have great friends and my flatmate even put my sock on for me! Now, that is love! :)
10. I am really excited for my visitors this summer! I have already started making plans!
Saturday, 25 April 2009
FLAT
On my way to work, I noticed something wasn't right about my car...
(Image from http://lockportslugline.wordpress.com/2008/05/28/apologies/)
Let's look at the positive...
1. I didn't have to be at work.
2. It wasn't raining and the weather was mild.
3. I have amazing friends who came to the rescue. (Thanks Ry and friend!)
4. My spare tire was good.
5. The owner's manual was equip with photo diagrams.
6. I had a jack and a tire iron.
7. I had some baby wipes in my car so we could wash our hands after.
So it was a slight set back, but I guess...
Always an Adventure with Amy, right? ;)
(Image from http://lockportslugline.wordpress.com/2008/05/28/apologies/)Let's look at the positive...
1. I didn't have to be at work.
2. It wasn't raining and the weather was mild.
3. I have amazing friends who came to the rescue. (Thanks Ry and friend!)
4. My spare tire was good.
5. The owner's manual was equip with photo diagrams.
6. I had a jack and a tire iron.
7. I had some baby wipes in my car so we could wash our hands after.
So it was a slight set back, but I guess...
Always an Adventure with Amy, right? ;)
Thursday, 23 April 2009
My Month in a NUTSHELL... More to come (if I feel like it)
March 24th to March 27th FLORENCE, Italy - AMAZING!
March 27th to April 1st ROME, Italy - DOUBLE AMAZING!!
April 4th - Scottish Universities All-Star basketball training session, where during practice I injured my back, the muscles just tensed up and it was sore.
April 6th to April 9th - DURHAM, England, British Universities Home Nations Tournament, our Universities Team played the Universities teams of Wales, N. Ireland, and England. Because of my back, I didn't play much, but we creamed Wales and N. Ireland, and lost to England by about 12 points.
April 10 to April 12th - still some back pain but getting MUCH better...
April 13th - most of the day was ok, but back still giving some problems, so I went home and stretched. Did something to aggravate the Sciatic nerve.
That evening, laid in AGONY unable to sleep.
April 14th - Called my flatmate (Lindesay) at 6 AM we called an emergency service who told me to take pain killers (which I had and didn't work)
8:15 AM called my doctor, who got me an appointment at 9:35. Lindesay helped encourage me to get up, I was so lightheaded and thought I would pass out because of the pain. I got in her car and laid the seat down. She went in, told them I was there, and came back out to the car when they were ready for me and got me. I shuffled in. The Dr was worried, prescribed pain killers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxers. We rescheduled an appointment a week later.
April 14th to April 17th - laid in bed with the pain slowly getting better and better. I didn't get up, much. The first day, Lindesay came home from work and checked on me, fed me, gave me my meds, and I have become more and more independent. Although, a lunch time decision to make scrambled eggs one day almost led to a disaster... but I laid on the couch while they were cooking, so no HUGE disasters!
I did have a field trip to the grocery store on Thursday, Lindesay drove and I walked around slowly... I just needed to get out of the house!!
April 17th - A physical therapist appointment, I was told to either lay down or stand up, but not sit...
April 20th - back to the Dr. She gave me another dose of meds and assigned me another physio appointment.
A few more days in bed...
April 23rd - I went to work and lasted 45 minutes, and had another physio appointment, she gave me exercises and a book called "The Back Book". In it, it described two types of people with back injuries, the copers and the avoiders. I guess it is good to cope with the pain, do what you can and hopefully it heals itself. It made me cry thinking I was an avoider because I laid in bed for a week, but my flatmate assured me that I did cope, I was showering and getting ready for the day (toward the end of the week!) After the physio, I came home, cleaned my flat and baked cookies... How is that for COPING!!!
Today I was at work for about 4 hours, and then decided to rest. I have a big job interview tomorrow and need my strength.
So I guess this wasn't the nutshell it was supposed to be, but I really want to write about Rome and Florence, so expect that soon (I hope).
Side notes
1. Sciatic nerve pain is THE most painful thing I have EVER experienced.
2. I was grateful for my friends who stopped by even just to visit. It made the days not so long and made me realize I was cared about.
3. My upper thigh and my little toes on my right leg are still numb with no feeling... VERY ODD. I am hoping that with time, the feeling comes back.
4. At the physio, I couldn't even do a calf raise with my right leg. The muscles just wouldn't move... weird!!
5. When you hurt your back, they ask you a million times in all sorts of ways "How your water works are?" (If you know what I mean...)
6. If you have back pain, try to get help so you can get exercises to strengthen it the right way. Don't wait until something serious happens!!
March 27th to April 1st ROME, Italy - DOUBLE AMAZING!!
April 4th - Scottish Universities All-Star basketball training session, where during practice I injured my back, the muscles just tensed up and it was sore.
April 6th to April 9th - DURHAM, England, British Universities Home Nations Tournament, our Universities Team played the Universities teams of Wales, N. Ireland, and England. Because of my back, I didn't play much, but we creamed Wales and N. Ireland, and lost to England by about 12 points.
April 10 to April 12th - still some back pain but getting MUCH better...
April 13th - most of the day was ok, but back still giving some problems, so I went home and stretched. Did something to aggravate the Sciatic nerve.
That evening, laid in AGONY unable to sleep.
April 14th - Called my flatmate (Lindesay) at 6 AM we called an emergency service who told me to take pain killers (which I had and didn't work)
8:15 AM called my doctor, who got me an appointment at 9:35. Lindesay helped encourage me to get up, I was so lightheaded and thought I would pass out because of the pain. I got in her car and laid the seat down. She went in, told them I was there, and came back out to the car when they were ready for me and got me. I shuffled in. The Dr was worried, prescribed pain killers, anti-inflammatories, and muscle relaxers. We rescheduled an appointment a week later.
April 14th to April 17th - laid in bed with the pain slowly getting better and better. I didn't get up, much. The first day, Lindesay came home from work and checked on me, fed me, gave me my meds, and I have become more and more independent. Although, a lunch time decision to make scrambled eggs one day almost led to a disaster... but I laid on the couch while they were cooking, so no HUGE disasters!
I did have a field trip to the grocery store on Thursday, Lindesay drove and I walked around slowly... I just needed to get out of the house!!
April 17th - A physical therapist appointment, I was told to either lay down or stand up, but not sit...
April 20th - back to the Dr. She gave me another dose of meds and assigned me another physio appointment.
A few more days in bed...
April 23rd - I went to work and lasted 45 minutes, and had another physio appointment, she gave me exercises and a book called "The Back Book". In it, it described two types of people with back injuries, the copers and the avoiders. I guess it is good to cope with the pain, do what you can and hopefully it heals itself. It made me cry thinking I was an avoider because I laid in bed for a week, but my flatmate assured me that I did cope, I was showering and getting ready for the day (toward the end of the week!) After the physio, I came home, cleaned my flat and baked cookies... How is that for COPING!!!
Today I was at work for about 4 hours, and then decided to rest. I have a big job interview tomorrow and need my strength.
So I guess this wasn't the nutshell it was supposed to be, but I really want to write about Rome and Florence, so expect that soon (I hope).
Side notes
1. Sciatic nerve pain is THE most painful thing I have EVER experienced.
2. I was grateful for my friends who stopped by even just to visit. It made the days not so long and made me realize I was cared about.
3. My upper thigh and my little toes on my right leg are still numb with no feeling... VERY ODD. I am hoping that with time, the feeling comes back.
4. At the physio, I couldn't even do a calf raise with my right leg. The muscles just wouldn't move... weird!!
5. When you hurt your back, they ask you a million times in all sorts of ways "How your water works are?" (If you know what I mean...)
6. If you have back pain, try to get help so you can get exercises to strengthen it the right way. Don't wait until something serious happens!!
Monday, 6 April 2009
10 Reasons my Dad Cracks me Up and I Love Him!
1) He sends me KSL ads like this one:
free
Llama
Lehi, UT 84043 - Jan 29, 2009
I have a llama that I'm trying to get rid of. It's male, brown and white, 2 1/2 years old. Come get it.
2) He gets sooo excited when he gets a "steal of a deal" Like this one:
In fact with this one, he wanted to drive it around the neighborhood (a 10 mile radius) so everyone could see his new purchase. My mom wouldn't let him. :)
3) Even though he will complain about Christmas shopping, he goes practically every day in December. This year was the first that he admitted that he likes to watch the people scramble around for last minute items. In fact, on Christmas Eve him and I were wandering through Walmart just watching people! Haha! :)
4) At the drop of a snowflake, he fires up his tractor or bull dozer or whatever BIG snow pushing equipment he has for the year and pushes the snow!
5) Every time you point a camera his way, he pulls a funny face! To this day, I don't know if there has ever been a "normal" picture of my dad!
.JPG)
.JPG)
6) He is a big tease! He will stick his finger in your ear when he walks past you, he will pull on your ear, tug your hair... anything to get a little rise. Then he will just grin when you look at him.
.JPG)
7) He is a very good foosball player, and when he beats you (and he usually does, unless you are Jackie) He yells "I'M THE GREATEST FOOSBALL PLAYER IN THE WORLD". It is soo funny!
8) He is such a hard worker, in the summer he will work all day and then be out in the garden at night. My mom knows to have dinner ready when he gets home, or he won't have time to eat! :)
9) He loves to drive to new places and explore!
10) He loves his family, and would do anything for each of his kids!
Dad, I love you very much!
free
Llama
Lehi, UT 84043 - Jan 29, 2009
I have a llama that I'm trying to get rid of. It's male, brown and white, 2 1/2 years old. Come get it.
2) He gets sooo excited when he gets a "steal of a deal" Like this one:
In fact with this one, he wanted to drive it around the neighborhood (a 10 mile radius) so everyone could see his new purchase. My mom wouldn't let him. :)
3) Even though he will complain about Christmas shopping, he goes practically every day in December. This year was the first that he admitted that he likes to watch the people scramble around for last minute items. In fact, on Christmas Eve him and I were wandering through Walmart just watching people! Haha! :)
4) At the drop of a snowflake, he fires up his tractor or bull dozer or whatever BIG snow pushing equipment he has for the year and pushes the snow!
5) Every time you point a camera his way, he pulls a funny face! To this day, I don't know if there has ever been a "normal" picture of my dad!
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6) He is a big tease! He will stick his finger in your ear when he walks past you, he will pull on your ear, tug your hair... anything to get a little rise. Then he will just grin when you look at him.
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7) He is a very good foosball player, and when he beats you (and he usually does, unless you are Jackie) He yells "I'M THE GREATEST FOOSBALL PLAYER IN THE WORLD". It is soo funny!
8) He is such a hard worker, in the summer he will work all day and then be out in the garden at night. My mom knows to have dinner ready when he gets home, or he won't have time to eat! :)
9) He loves to drive to new places and explore!
10) He loves his family, and would do anything for each of his kids!
Dad, I love you very much!
Saturday, 14 February 2009
Friday the 13th, Unlucky for Some but...
LUCKY FOR ME! :)
Despite having a VERY hectic week, I was able to have a 'fairly' calm, exciting Friday. I will spare you the boring details and just give you the cool things.
I got an email from the main office saying:
"Hi
You have items to collect from the main store.
Thanks"
When I got down there, this is what they gave me...
I couldn't believe it! Unfortunately, I had to wait until I was home to fully open it. Lilies (Well, soon to be lilies, pink ones are my absolute Favorite!)
Notice the "thing" in cellophane?
Tim decided that he couldn't resist, he had to get me a (toy) Gerbil. Haha!
I think it is the most extravagant bunch of flowers I have ever received!
THANK YOU! :)
After basketball practice, I went to the Chinese New Year Celebration. There were lots of people there. The Chinese Society put on an amazing program. (Unfortunately, I didn't bring my camera.) They had tons of decorations.... This was one of them. I absolutely LOVE it! (It is 3-D) I asked the organizers if I could have it. I am going to put it on my office door. I LOVE IT!!!
Despite having a VERY hectic week, I was able to have a 'fairly' calm, exciting Friday. I will spare you the boring details and just give you the cool things.
I got an email from the main office saying:
"Hi
You have items to collect from the main store.
Thanks"
When I got down there, this is what they gave me...
I couldn't believe it! Unfortunately, I had to wait until I was home to fully open it. Lilies (Well, soon to be lilies, pink ones are my absolute Favorite!)
Notice the "thing" in cellophane?
Tim decided that he couldn't resist, he had to get me a (toy) Gerbil. Haha!
I think it is the most extravagant bunch of flowers I have ever received!
THANK YOU! :)
After basketball practice, I went to the Chinese New Year Celebration. There were lots of people there. The Chinese Society put on an amazing program. (Unfortunately, I didn't bring my camera.) They had tons of decorations.... This was one of them. I absolutely LOVE it! (It is 3-D) I asked the organizers if I could have it. I am going to put it on my office door. I LOVE IT!!!
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
Help me find this grill!
Garland, UT 84312 - Feb 11, 2009
Help me find the person or persons that stole the grill from the front of my Dodge Truck!
These People came in my yard and took the grill right off my truck.
You or I or anybody else may be there next victims! If you know anyone that is driving a 91, 92 or 93 Dodge truck that was hit in the front lately, this is what the grill fits. You can remain anonymous if you wish. lets keep the thieves away and help each other out. any tip would be appreciated.
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=218&ad=5572289&cat=98&lpid=
Yes, Sunday, someone went in our yard and took the grill off my dad's truck (around $1,000). If anyone hears anything/sees anything, please let us know!
It makes me angry to think that someone waltzed around and took what they wanted. The economy may be tough, but really, is this what people are resorting to!? I guess not even the small towns in Utah are safe! Everyone, LOCK YOUR DOORS and LOCK UP YOUR STUFF! It's true, you may be next!
Help me find the person or persons that stole the grill from the front of my Dodge Truck!
These People came in my yard and took the grill right off my truck.
You or I or anybody else may be there next victims! If you know anyone that is driving a 91, 92 or 93 Dodge truck that was hit in the front lately, this is what the grill fits. You can remain anonymous if you wish. lets keep the thieves away and help each other out. any tip would be appreciated.
http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=218&ad=5572289&cat=98&lpid=
Yes, Sunday, someone went in our yard and took the grill off my dad's truck (around $1,000). If anyone hears anything/sees anything, please let us know!
It makes me angry to think that someone waltzed around and took what they wanted. The economy may be tough, but really, is this what people are resorting to!? I guess not even the small towns in Utah are safe! Everyone, LOCK YOUR DOORS and LOCK UP YOUR STUFF! It's true, you may be next!
Monday, 2 February 2009
My Most Expensive Pens
I know the girls that read this will relate, probably not the writers, but the frugal ones will.
Yesterday, I went to Tesco (like a Smith's Marketplace) to buy a few things. One thing on my list was a writing marker pen. I browsed the aisle and found a package of three felt tip pens, one with a 0.3 mm point, a 0.5, and a 0.7 mm. I was excited to see the tag over it said 80p (80 pence) The package went into my cart!
At the check-out, I calculated and thought I spent around 12 pounds. The lady in front of me was buying two sets of groceries and one of her items didn't scan, so someone had to go back and find what wasn't working, grab a new one... etc. Well, you know the drill.
Anyway, there were a bunch of us waiting in this que (line). So when the guy rang my stuff up, he said the total was 16 pounds. I was a little surprised, but was in a hurry, so just left.
I drove home (~30 minutes), opened my pens and tried out the width of the line. They were pretty cool.
This morning, I found the receipt in my trouser (pants) pocket and those pens were over 4 pounds!!! Now, it is un-economical to drive back to the store and I have already opened them. I feel a little tricked...
I guess I am stuck with these pens. I guess I wouldn't mind spending that much if... the pens Looked expensive, but they look cheap. Blah!!
Yesterday, I went to Tesco (like a Smith's Marketplace) to buy a few things. One thing on my list was a writing marker pen. I browsed the aisle and found a package of three felt tip pens, one with a 0.3 mm point, a 0.5, and a 0.7 mm. I was excited to see the tag over it said 80p (80 pence) The package went into my cart!
At the check-out, I calculated and thought I spent around 12 pounds. The lady in front of me was buying two sets of groceries and one of her items didn't scan, so someone had to go back and find what wasn't working, grab a new one... etc. Well, you know the drill.
Anyway, there were a bunch of us waiting in this que (line). So when the guy rang my stuff up, he said the total was 16 pounds. I was a little surprised, but was in a hurry, so just left.
I drove home (~30 minutes), opened my pens and tried out the width of the line. They were pretty cool.
This morning, I found the receipt in my trouser (pants) pocket and those pens were over 4 pounds!!! Now, it is un-economical to drive back to the store and I have already opened them. I feel a little tricked...
I guess I am stuck with these pens. I guess I wouldn't mind spending that much if... the pens Looked expensive, but they look cheap. Blah!!
25 Random things about me
25 Random things about me
Once I started this, I realize that I have a lot of random things about me! My list could go on and on and on... but I won't bore you! :)
1) My ears go red when I am hot, Everyone always thought I had an ear infection.
2) I have played competitive basketball for 22 years, on a college or university team for 7 years. (I think it may be time for me to retire!)
3) I have been to 4 different colleges/universities. I have an AA, BS, and MS. I am currently working on my PhD. (~11 years non-stop)
4) I am very afraid of ticks.
5) I like to bake and recently have been into cake decorating. One of my favorite things to bake is oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
6) I used to work for the Utah Statesman (newspaper) as a photographer.
7) I have lived in Utah, California, Montana, Germany, and Scotland. This is the first time, since I have graduated high school that I have lived in the same house more than 1 year. (I have been here 1.5 years)
8) I love Disney movies/animations. One of my favorites is Anastasia.
9) I always picture the worst that can happen… For example, if I need to carry something glass, I think of ways that I will drop it and accidentally cut myself.
10) One of my favorite books from my childhood was “There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom”. (It still makes me cry.)
11) The older I get, the more I cry- sporting events, feel good stories, etc. I think because I relate to the moment, feel the joy or the sorrow.
12) I am very close to my family. I am the oldest and am very protective of them. I am also very close to my parents. In our house, you don’t walk by someone with out giving them a hug!
13) I have a great-grandma still alive. She will be 100 this year! (and she still lives by herself. My mom says my grandma has a better memory than hers!)
14) I always try to keep in touch with people. I have friends that I talk to around the world.
15) I go from shy to outgoing very quickly. I used to be very outgoing, but I think being in Scotland has made me introverted. (Tim disagreed with this one, he said “you’re the least introverted person around!”)
16) Kids have always liked me. I don’t know what it is, because I don’t think I am good with them. I guess I just like to play.
17) I like to sleep in. In fact, I usually don’t get out of bed until 10. I think about getting up early, but don’t… ever!
18) I like to play volleyball. I play beach (2 on 2) and indoor (6 on 6). Last year, in beach, my partner and I were one of the top teams in Scotland.
19) My favorite TV programs are “The Big Bang Theory”, “Dancing on Ice”, and “Britain’s Got Talent”.
20) I feel like I live a double life. One in Utah and one in Scotland. Things are sooo easily forgotten after a 24 hour trip/plane ride.
21) I am addicted to the internet. I will sit and watch my email to see if I get anything new. Nothing will change, but I will still check the same sites.
22) My favorite food is pizza. It has all of the food groups! I also tend to prefer vegetarian food.
23) I usually don’t like to start reading books. Once I start, I just have to read the whole thing. I also don’t like to read anything scary… stalkers, murders, etc. I am already paranoid enough!
24) I am pretty liberal, I don’t know of any life choices that people make really phase me. I figure; as long as you aren’t hurting anyone else, do what you want.
25) I think dressing up and looking nice is a good idea, but when I try it, it lowers my confidence. I can’t wear make up, I feel ugly. I feel my best/most confident in my baggy basketball clothes on a basketball court all sweaty!
Once I started this, I realize that I have a lot of random things about me! My list could go on and on and on... but I won't bore you! :)
1) My ears go red when I am hot, Everyone always thought I had an ear infection.
2) I have played competitive basketball for 22 years, on a college or university team for 7 years. (I think it may be time for me to retire!)
3) I have been to 4 different colleges/universities. I have an AA, BS, and MS. I am currently working on my PhD. (~11 years non-stop)
4) I am very afraid of ticks.
5) I like to bake and recently have been into cake decorating. One of my favorite things to bake is oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
6) I used to work for the Utah Statesman (newspaper) as a photographer.
7) I have lived in Utah, California, Montana, Germany, and Scotland. This is the first time, since I have graduated high school that I have lived in the same house more than 1 year. (I have been here 1.5 years)
8) I love Disney movies/animations. One of my favorites is Anastasia.
9) I always picture the worst that can happen… For example, if I need to carry something glass, I think of ways that I will drop it and accidentally cut myself.
10) One of my favorite books from my childhood was “There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom”. (It still makes me cry.)
11) The older I get, the more I cry- sporting events, feel good stories, etc. I think because I relate to the moment, feel the joy or the sorrow.
12) I am very close to my family. I am the oldest and am very protective of them. I am also very close to my parents. In our house, you don’t walk by someone with out giving them a hug!
13) I have a great-grandma still alive. She will be 100 this year! (and she still lives by herself. My mom says my grandma has a better memory than hers!)
14) I always try to keep in touch with people. I have friends that I talk to around the world.
15) I go from shy to outgoing very quickly. I used to be very outgoing, but I think being in Scotland has made me introverted. (Tim disagreed with this one, he said “you’re the least introverted person around!”)
16) Kids have always liked me. I don’t know what it is, because I don’t think I am good with them. I guess I just like to play.
17) I like to sleep in. In fact, I usually don’t get out of bed until 10. I think about getting up early, but don’t… ever!
18) I like to play volleyball. I play beach (2 on 2) and indoor (6 on 6). Last year, in beach, my partner and I were one of the top teams in Scotland.
19) My favorite TV programs are “The Big Bang Theory”, “Dancing on Ice”, and “Britain’s Got Talent”.
20) I feel like I live a double life. One in Utah and one in Scotland. Things are sooo easily forgotten after a 24 hour trip/plane ride.
21) I am addicted to the internet. I will sit and watch my email to see if I get anything new. Nothing will change, but I will still check the same sites.
22) My favorite food is pizza. It has all of the food groups! I also tend to prefer vegetarian food.
23) I usually don’t like to start reading books. Once I start, I just have to read the whole thing. I also don’t like to read anything scary… stalkers, murders, etc. I am already paranoid enough!
24) I am pretty liberal, I don’t know of any life choices that people make really phase me. I figure; as long as you aren’t hurting anyone else, do what you want.
25) I think dressing up and looking nice is a good idea, but when I try it, it lowers my confidence. I can’t wear make up, I feel ugly. I feel my best/most confident in my baggy basketball clothes on a basketball court all sweaty!
Thursday, 29 January 2009
The Key to the World....
So much action, so much adventure happens when you put on the suit of a Super Villan! Our mission: to get the Key to the World, hidden in the Tower of Power! Wa haa haaa The shades protect our eyes from the deep stares of the Super Heroes, the vests protect our bodies from missels and toy cars as we roll across the floor weaving in and out of danger. The hats are a stylish means of disguise! We will become successful Super Villans on our race to get the key! Right after our nap, and maybe a snack!
(Contributed by Kelly! Love these girls to bits!)
Italy Woes
My co-workers and I are in the process of planning a trip to Italy. The first part will be work in Florence and then we decided that Rome would be nice, so we booked flights to Florence and then back through Rome.
We then booked a train to go from Florence to Rome and we booked a hotel in Florence.
Yesterday, we got an email from our airline saying that they were canceling our flight and we would be placed on the next flight 2 days later!
I can't decide if this is a good thing or a bad thing.
Good: I can see more of Italy, maybe go to Pompeii
Bad: Two more days/nights means at least £100 maybe £200 more pounds...
We are looking for an alternative, but they seems just as expensive either time wise or money wise...
For example, fly to Milan then to London, stay the night in London and take a train.
I am half tempted to not get on the first flight to begin with...
We then booked a train to go from Florence to Rome and we booked a hotel in Florence.
Yesterday, we got an email from our airline saying that they were canceling our flight and we would be placed on the next flight 2 days later!
I can't decide if this is a good thing or a bad thing.
Good: I can see more of Italy, maybe go to Pompeii
Bad: Two more days/nights means at least £100 maybe £200 more pounds...
We are looking for an alternative, but they seems just as expensive either time wise or money wise...
For example, fly to Milan then to London, stay the night in London and take a train.
I am half tempted to not get on the first flight to begin with...
Friday, 23 January 2009
Best of 2008
I was browsing (ok, let's be realistic... wasting time) and I came across Time's Top 10 of Everything.
http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10
I read the Top 10 Oddball News stories. Pretty crazy. I am going to check out some more now!
http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10
I read the Top 10 Oddball News stories. Pretty crazy. I am going to check out some more now!
Thursday, 22 January 2009
Haylee Helping Grandma Cook
Haylee is helping Grandma cook Homemade Mac and Cheese, because my mom used curly noodles, we ended up calling it "Cheese and Noodlies"
I wanted to see if she could star in her own cooking show one day, so I said "Ok Haylee, say 'next stir together the cheese and sauce'". Here is the result...
I think she did ok for her first shooting, don't you?
Monday, 19 January 2009
Slightly Traumatized
Last week, the "robot" room (where I do ALL of my work) flooded. Luckily, nothing was damaged... except the door that the maintenance guys kicked in.
They fixed the door and everything seemed back to normal, so a co-worker and I went in to set up some samples. Half way through the set up, I asked him to go get something and he couldn't get out. The maintenance guys had broken the mechanism on the inside of the door that unlocks it.
My co-worker called the few number he had of people and then he looked up my boss's phone number. She came to our rescue and taped the lock open.
While all of this was going on, I continued to calmly finish setting up my samples.
However, I wasn't sooo calm... I felt very claustrophobic. Even though I have been in that room a thousand times, it made me really anxious to know that we couldn't get out. I was laughing very hard, but at the same time I was a little shaky and my heart was pounding. Even though, I knew everything would be ok, it was just a weird feeling.
I have always wondered what it would be like to be trapped in an elevator or some small place and after today's experience, I don't want to.
On a happier note, my suitcase came yesterday morning!!
They fixed the door and everything seemed back to normal, so a co-worker and I went in to set up some samples. Half way through the set up, I asked him to go get something and he couldn't get out. The maintenance guys had broken the mechanism on the inside of the door that unlocks it.
My co-worker called the few number he had of people and then he looked up my boss's phone number. She came to our rescue and taped the lock open.
While all of this was going on, I continued to calmly finish setting up my samples.
However, I wasn't sooo calm... I felt very claustrophobic. Even though I have been in that room a thousand times, it made me really anxious to know that we couldn't get out. I was laughing very hard, but at the same time I was a little shaky and my heart was pounding. Even though, I knew everything would be ok, it was just a weird feeling.
I have always wondered what it would be like to be trapped in an elevator or some small place and after today's experience, I don't want to.
On a happier note, my suitcase came yesterday morning!!
Friday, 16 January 2009
Lost Luggage Update
A wee update...
My Bag is in Guadalahara, MEXICO;
After a week of dealing with AirFrance, lets just say the French (with whom I was speaking) were less than helpful, my bag is still missing. It has been a week and a half (I arrived in Edi on Jan 6th).
Oh well, who needs a computer cord or a winter coat...
My Bag is in Guadalahara, MEXICO;
After a week of dealing with AirFrance, lets just say the French (with whom I was speaking) were less than helpful, my bag is still missing. It has been a week and a half (I arrived in Edi on Jan 6th).
Oh well, who needs a computer cord or a winter coat...
Friday, 9 January 2009
Flight Back! (Sorry, it is long)
I know everyone loves to read about my international travel... This time, not as much happened in the air as afterward, but nonetheless, here goes:
Monday morning: I still hadn't packed, but eventually threw things into two suitcases.
Monday afternoon: It was snowing and Tim and I ventured toward the airport. The snow was light, fluffy and blowing everywhere. Around Willard, the roads started getting bad and there were people sliding off the road. We passed a ~20 car pileup in the North bound lane. More cars off the road. We took the Legacy Highway and as we joined back to I215, a car was sideways on the freeway, we stopped as he straightened out and continued on.
At the airport, my flight was delayed.... no biggie, I had a 4 hour layover in Paris, so I wasn't tooo worried.
My flight was 2:30 hours late, but no worries, still enough time to make it. I sat in the last seat, last row of the jet. It was nice to have the room, but there are no food options when the attendants get to you. I ate BBQ Chicken and some indistinguishable mush... I thought mash potatoes, but maybe grits... (Ew)
The 10 hr 45 minute flight was long, but not tooo bad, as long boring flights go. I watched City of Ember, Wallee, and The Big Bang Theory on my new Ipod (Thanks Mom and Nick!)
(Tuesday) After that flight, I had a 1:30 hour lay over in Paris. I actually had no problems, and the flight wasn't too bad, only 1 hr and 35 minutes. We touched down at the Edinburgh airport at 5:30 PM Tuesday night.
As I was waiting for my luggage, I got a text from my flatmate saying that someone had come along and hit the wing mirrors on several cars damaging them. Mine had been hit, but she didn't know the damage.
I grabbed one of my bags, and then the lady on the loud speaker made an announcement that a conveyor belt in Paris had broken and most of the bags didn't make it. So I had one bag MIA. It would be 2-3 days or even a week. I filled out the paperwork and then rushed out. I realized that my MIA bag was filled with my all important computer cord, but more importantly, my winter coat... Good thing it isn't as cold here as it is in Utah... My taxi was waiting, but they had almost left and made me go with a later bunch. I made it home at 7:09.
First thing I did was drop off my bags and then went and looked at my car. Whew, they had hit the mirror, but it wasn't badly damaged, just a small crack that can be glued. I then went into the house, made the "I'm safe" phone calls and then decided to take a shower. I hate the smell that your clothes soak up from the airline seats. It smells like old man fart...
After my shower, I started boiling Mac and Cheese noodles. It was the only thing I had in the house. The doorbell rang and the police were there. They needed a statement from me and my flatmate. I think the guy interviewing me was unimpressed. I didn't want to make a statement, I just wanted my Mac and Cheese. In fact, I stopped the interview, so I could stop my noodles from boiling too long. Haha! He told me I couldn't really say my car had been vandalized. While we were talking, I could only think of how I didn't want to be standing there, I wanted to eat and how I was super tired...
They finally left.
(Wednesday) After a fairly good night sleep, the next day, I got ready to go to work. I went out to start my car. Now to preface this next paragraph, usually after a long vacation, I come back to find something wrong with my car. I figured this time, I may be lucky and it would only be the wing mirror. Not the case...
I started it (YAY! Still full of hope) and I went to pull forward. It wouldn't go. I tried reverse.. still wouldn't go. In fact it was stuck!! I pumped the breaks, tried rocking the car!! NOTHING!
I finally got out, I decided that I should look under the hood. Just to make sure nothing was leaking (Last time I got back, I had a fuel line spewing petrol everywhere) Anyway, There was a rain forest of petrol falling! I looked and the other end of the line had loosened. Weird. Now to fix this, I needed to get under the motor cover and I needed a socket set. I didn't have one and the neighbor I asked didn't have one either. I gave up and walked to work. I only stayed a few hours because I couldn't handle it and I left to find some food and a socket set!
£10 pounds later, my set was bought, but nothing could be done. It was 4:00 PM and getting dark. So I relaxed and had a fairly restless night sleep until about 7 AM, when I slept until 3 in the afternoon!!!
(Thursday)
I hurried and got up and attempted to fix my car. I unbolted, unscrewed, tightended, recapped, and fixed that leaky hose! (I felt very powerful, I might add). The problem is, the car still wouldn't roll forward or back. Hmmm, it was already 4:00, so I guess I will wait until tomorrow. That night, I talked myself into having some mechanics fix it. I just wanted to pay someone to make it work.
(Friday) I set my alarm and got up at 10:30AM. I went outside, still wouldn't work. So I called the garage. They eventually sent someone over. A cute old man and a younger guy who was the brawns. He just smiled at me. Anyway, the took the hubcaps off and hit the wheel in a few places to knock the brake loose. Yay!! It worked. £15 pounds later, I have a running (moving) car!!! YAY! Things are definitely looking up.
Oh, I also called Airfrance. They still have my bag in Paris, and they don't know when it will arrive, they are working "as hard as they can to return the bag..."
Morals of the story.
1) Carry on EVERYTHING you think you will need in a week
2) Never leave your emergency brake on if you don't need to. As my dad said "Its amazing what rust can do!
Monday morning: I still hadn't packed, but eventually threw things into two suitcases.
Monday afternoon: It was snowing and Tim and I ventured toward the airport. The snow was light, fluffy and blowing everywhere. Around Willard, the roads started getting bad and there were people sliding off the road. We passed a ~20 car pileup in the North bound lane. More cars off the road. We took the Legacy Highway and as we joined back to I215, a car was sideways on the freeway, we stopped as he straightened out and continued on.
At the airport, my flight was delayed.... no biggie, I had a 4 hour layover in Paris, so I wasn't tooo worried.
My flight was 2:30 hours late, but no worries, still enough time to make it. I sat in the last seat, last row of the jet. It was nice to have the room, but there are no food options when the attendants get to you. I ate BBQ Chicken and some indistinguishable mush... I thought mash potatoes, but maybe grits... (Ew)
The 10 hr 45 minute flight was long, but not tooo bad, as long boring flights go. I watched City of Ember, Wallee, and The Big Bang Theory on my new Ipod (Thanks Mom and Nick!)
(Tuesday) After that flight, I had a 1:30 hour lay over in Paris. I actually had no problems, and the flight wasn't too bad, only 1 hr and 35 minutes. We touched down at the Edinburgh airport at 5:30 PM Tuesday night.
As I was waiting for my luggage, I got a text from my flatmate saying that someone had come along and hit the wing mirrors on several cars damaging them. Mine had been hit, but she didn't know the damage.
I grabbed one of my bags, and then the lady on the loud speaker made an announcement that a conveyor belt in Paris had broken and most of the bags didn't make it. So I had one bag MIA. It would be 2-3 days or even a week. I filled out the paperwork and then rushed out. I realized that my MIA bag was filled with my all important computer cord, but more importantly, my winter coat... Good thing it isn't as cold here as it is in Utah... My taxi was waiting, but they had almost left and made me go with a later bunch. I made it home at 7:09.
First thing I did was drop off my bags and then went and looked at my car. Whew, they had hit the mirror, but it wasn't badly damaged, just a small crack that can be glued. I then went into the house, made the "I'm safe" phone calls and then decided to take a shower. I hate the smell that your clothes soak up from the airline seats. It smells like old man fart...
After my shower, I started boiling Mac and Cheese noodles. It was the only thing I had in the house. The doorbell rang and the police were there. They needed a statement from me and my flatmate. I think the guy interviewing me was unimpressed. I didn't want to make a statement, I just wanted my Mac and Cheese. In fact, I stopped the interview, so I could stop my noodles from boiling too long. Haha! He told me I couldn't really say my car had been vandalized. While we were talking, I could only think of how I didn't want to be standing there, I wanted to eat and how I was super tired...
They finally left.
(Wednesday) After a fairly good night sleep, the next day, I got ready to go to work. I went out to start my car. Now to preface this next paragraph, usually after a long vacation, I come back to find something wrong with my car. I figured this time, I may be lucky and it would only be the wing mirror. Not the case...
I started it (YAY! Still full of hope) and I went to pull forward. It wouldn't go. I tried reverse.. still wouldn't go. In fact it was stuck!! I pumped the breaks, tried rocking the car!! NOTHING!
I finally got out, I decided that I should look under the hood. Just to make sure nothing was leaking (Last time I got back, I had a fuel line spewing petrol everywhere) Anyway, There was a rain forest of petrol falling! I looked and the other end of the line had loosened. Weird. Now to fix this, I needed to get under the motor cover and I needed a socket set. I didn't have one and the neighbor I asked didn't have one either. I gave up and walked to work. I only stayed a few hours because I couldn't handle it and I left to find some food and a socket set!
£10 pounds later, my set was bought, but nothing could be done. It was 4:00 PM and getting dark. So I relaxed and had a fairly restless night sleep until about 7 AM, when I slept until 3 in the afternoon!!!
(Thursday)
I hurried and got up and attempted to fix my car. I unbolted, unscrewed, tightended, recapped, and fixed that leaky hose! (I felt very powerful, I might add). The problem is, the car still wouldn't roll forward or back. Hmmm, it was already 4:00, so I guess I will wait until tomorrow. That night, I talked myself into having some mechanics fix it. I just wanted to pay someone to make it work.
(Friday) I set my alarm and got up at 10:30AM. I went outside, still wouldn't work. So I called the garage. They eventually sent someone over. A cute old man and a younger guy who was the brawns. He just smiled at me. Anyway, the took the hubcaps off and hit the wheel in a few places to knock the brake loose. Yay!! It worked. £15 pounds later, I have a running (moving) car!!! YAY! Things are definitely looking up.
Oh, I also called Airfrance. They still have my bag in Paris, and they don't know when it will arrive, they are working "as hard as they can to return the bag..."
Morals of the story.
1) Carry on EVERYTHING you think you will need in a week
2) Never leave your emergency brake on if you don't need to. As my dad said "Its amazing what rust can do!
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