Twix, Klondike, Godiva ... soon you will all be mine.

Only nine hours, forty-five minutes till I start in on a mountain of chocolate. It's hard to believe it's been a year since my last Milka.

Pictures to come.



Update:

I ate. And ate chocolate. Here's the final count of how long I was chocolate free. I ended up falling asleep before midnight and woke up around 5:00. Jeremy, blessed good sport he is, was happy to wake up and help me with this little party. Here's a final pic of the counter.


I didn't look fabulous. But the chocolate sure did. For Christmas Jeremy got me Godiva chocolates. It was my first time ever having a Godiva chocolate. Totally. Worth. Every. Penny.


I ate very little chocolate that night. I was a little disappointed. But it's for the best, really. Maybe I'll do this again some time. It was very tough at times but I'm glad I did it.

Little lambs eat ivy ... what about ladybugs?

There is a ladybug walking around the computer downstairs. I haven't seen another live ladybug for weeks so I think s/he's the last. As I am fresh out of aphids what do I feed this little creature?

My sister's funny

Yesterday I was Skyping with my sister, Kimmie. She said a phrase in Spanish. The following conversation ensued:

Jessie: I don't know what you said, I don't know Spanish.
Kimmie: You have to know some, you live in America.

Sorry guys, she's taken.

Did we really miss all of November?

Oh, the shame. Not one blog post in all of November. So sad. Here's the scoop, Wendy got married and moved to Logan. I did not. We're both adjusting to new responsibilities in our lives. Plus nothing really funny happens to me when I don't ever leave the house. Well, nothing you'd consider funny. However,  Oscar does a little dance with the first piece of dog food I drop for him. I'll post that. It makes me laugh.

What else is there to do on a weekday?

Another week, another set of funnies from the classifieds...

HOME REMODELS/UPDATES/REPAIRS. No job is too small. Call Deric (live local). VERY reasonable rates.
Thanks for clarifying; I wouldn't hire a dead local to do anything.

Epson LX-80 dot matrix printer in original box with tractor feed option, $30, barely used, paid $180 new.
Paid $180... seventeen years ago.

Barely used: The Bible Experience:The Complete Bible TNIV CDs and Bible by African American actors and musicians. 2007 Audiobook of the Year.$90 new,asking $50.
I'd have gone with 'got duplicates as gift' -- Who admits they barely use the Bible??

Barn cats..all shapes and sizes.. take as many as you want. Contact anytime
I'd like half a dozen square, three oval, and a couple octagons if you have `em. Oh, and I'm calling at midnight.

And my favorite...
Elvis Presley lunchbox. email for pics, but call for info
Still smells like fried banana peanut butter sandwiches.

My First Post as Housewife

I'm not experienced or anything, but I would imagine housewives check the classifieds to find the best deals... Let's see what Jessie's found:

Bunny Costume(boy): sz 3-6 months, white with blue belly and ears for a boy. Never worn.
Never worn *for a reason*

Wanted: Garage space to store a small car for the winter.
If it's a micro-machine I have a spare pocket.

I will scan those vaca or baby boomer baby pictures FOREVER onto your computer,(or any other slides you have). Call for prices (cheap). Ask for Brad
Is that a hiccup after 'call for prices'?

Looking for a 1980s formal gown, size 14 in good to excellent condition. Color does not matter. If you've got one you are willing to part with, call me!
It's going to be hot pink with puffy sleeves, resign yourself to that.

EASTER Eggs Plastic refillable Large bag. $10 for whole bag. Great for Church or Easter egg hunt.
Church hunt? That's going to be a breeze!

Especially around here...

Yet Again!

Here's more... from the classifieds...

Wooden play set, Large, green treated wood, has a yellow slide, In pieces.
So it's treated with green? Also, in my experience, slides in pieces do not equal fun.

Vintage snowshoes. $60 Would make great wall decor! Email for pic.
In case you live at Applebee's

I'll drive while your group relaxes.22 & 47 pass' party bus.I'm available for birthday,bach,weddings,sports events & group parties.Rent a clean bus & reliable driver.
The bus breaks down and the driver needs a shower.

Duck Decoys--- 27 of them. good shape. $75.
You know ... duck-ish shaped.

Lots of sheep for sale just sold pa's farm!!!!! Soft, playful....and your kids can ride them too! Saddles sold seperately.
So many title possibilities... What would you say?

More From the Classifieds

Cabbage Patch Kid from the 80s. name Imelda. Original clown outfit. $5 Great collector item.
In case your kids are sleeping ok through the night ...

I have room for winter storage for small campers,boats,cars, ect. Reasonable and clean. Close to town.
Dirty, irrational boats need not apply.

Singing and Talking Spring Horse-Lucky has been well-loved and in ex cond. He sings and talks. Stirrups have 3 different foothold lengths for height/ages. $20
Think he comes with an invisible swordsman and a singing bush, too?

Keep your clocks ticking-Clock repair done locally.Howard Miller serviceman-Call Ron
And Ron is your code name?

love seat - green nice condition but missing back cushions. 34" deep, 53" wide, 27" tall
We should define 'nice condition'

The Thermos propane grill is gone. stop calling. Contact: (555) 555-5555
Now you're just tempting us to keep calling.

Little gems from Jessie

Every other day or so, Jessie shares quirky ads she finds in the classifieds. Oh, and she adds a bit of funny to them. Kind of like Jay Leno's 'Headlines', only from someone without a his huge chin and bad hair. I usually just laugh to myself (which makes my coworkers question my sanity, my laughing to myself) so I thought I'd start sharing them with you...

Sixteen inch boys and girls bikes for sale, excellent condition. $20 each
Bikes for infants? That's just silly.
I read that they were sixteen inch boys and girls for sale, and skipped over the bikes. :) $20 isn't bad, but the questions might cost you a lot.

Very cute baby bearded dragons for sale. $35.00/ ea. - HAVE LOTS!
Also, I'm interested in purchasing glasses as I'm nearly blind.

Wanted: small bales of hay for horses not rained on
Because wet horses don't eat.

Floral couch and coordinating plaid chair for sale. Decent shape. $75 OBO. Can email pics
Well, they coordinate according to Stevie Wonder or Ray Charles

Air-conditioner (window) to give away. Works great, it's too big for me to lift. Come and take it.
I don't think it's supposed to be *portable*.

BUNK BEDS WANTED!Prefer wood, in good shape, reasonably priced.
So you don't want this round one?

More to follow... show changes daily... please tip your waitresses..

Inspired by a Stranger

Ok, I want to make it clear that the following is not my blog post. But it's the post of someone blogging on http://sparkpeople.com. I LOVE this website because it promotes health and all its wonderful benefits. This particular member said a lot of things that hit home for me (especially as I'm struggling to fit into a wedding dress), so I wanted to share it with all of you.

Me and My Shadow

How does that song go? I was walking the other day and looked down at the sidewalk and saw this stranger walking with me. I stared at the image and for a brief moment I asked "Who the heck is that?" "This person doesn't have all those lumps and bumps of ugly fat on her that I do"... A brief moment, then tears came to my eyes as it hit me. This was ME.

I weighed myself yesterday. The scales said 141.6...I realized that I had now lost 70 pounds! Then I put on my gift to myself- a pair of size 8 Kymaro jeans I was saving for this moment. Never in my life have I worn a size 8. They look good, yes, I can honestly tell you that. Oh, the journey is not over, far from it with another six pounds to go in order to reach my goal and then toning up my body. All in good time, but for now I reflect on some of the things I have learned on this my journey of a million steps.

I have learned that the prison of shame and guilt that I had built was my own creation and that I had the power to tear it down, or to build it up. It is all up to ME

I had to learn to take personal responsibility for every bite of food that I put into my mouth, and that I had to eat healthy to BE healthy.

I had to learn that you either do IT (diet/exercise), or you don't -- there's no middle ground and that life is full of choices and I choose to be happier and healthier with mine.

I learned that I could acknowledge myself in ways other than eating. I no longer have to be an "emotional eater" to do that.

I learned to admit to myself that I was fat and unhealthy because I chose to overeat and I chose foods that were unhealthy and fattening.

I learned I just needed to find a diet plan that worked for ME. For me this is the idiot proof diet plan. Eating the right combination of foods, eating small portions knowing I will eat again in two hours, and eating healthy food was and is my key to success.

I learned that I am not a failure even though I may have "failed" when I dieted in the past.

I have learned that "temptations" along my journey are merely a test to my commitment. And, if I give myself the "gift" of an occasional temptation it makes the journey go much better.

I have learned that losing weight is not the end result but the beginning of a new chapter -- complete with new challenges, commitments and dreams! I have learned that the journey will NEVER be over for me, that this is just the beginning of another journey to a happier and healthier life full of mountains and valleys, but ... I will accept the hills and valleys and travel with them...with the knowledge that I CAN continue, and I CAN do this...

Confession, again.

Yesterday morning just after I got off the bus I noticed a lost-looking elderly couple. They couldn't figure out which side of the street a certain building is on. I happen to know which side that building is on. I tried to convey this to them.

It didn't go well.

I pointed and motioned. It somehow came out wrong. I'm sure they eventually found a competent person to help them out.

As I crossed the street I was reminded of my first desk job. I worked at Saia Motorfreight. I loved that job. It was cake. I worked with great people (and one wicked witch).

Sometimes people would call in to get directions to our building. I was forbidden to do so. I had to pass off the calls. How sad is that?

Hi, I'm Jessie. I'm a horrible giver of directions.

What I learned today

There is no 5:45 bus. The first bus of the morning is 6:15.

Also, it's dark at 5:45.

Play at Work

Yesterday all of us girls in my office went to lunch - YAY!! We left the sales guys to hold down the fort, but brought them Chili's chips, salsa, and queso for their trouble. This is what we had in our email inbox upon our arrival at the office:

This is an official notice that the “woman” in the office have been put on the “silent treatment.” Please refrain from attempting to converse with the gentlemen in “the pit” as you will be ignored and subsequently get your feelings hurt. Communication will be by email or written letter until further notified! Thank you for your time!

Justin

My coworker Sheryl sent this in reply:

May I please correct your spelling don’t you mean ”women” as in multiple fantastic beautiful ladies that work in SLC that remembered you male types with fresh chips, salsa and let’s not forget the queso for the hassle of holding down the “fort” while we were absent.

With Love,

The Women

We still don't really know why this all started, but you'd think after a whole afternoon of this, the boys would've tired of the game... But wait until you see what they did this morning. We guessed wrong.
































They've built a wall of cardboard around themselves, and put up a list of rules. If you can't see what it says, it's something like this --

*No lifeguard on duty*
Rules:
1-Ask permission to enter
2-Ask permission to speak
3-Address them as "sir"
4-keep your hands and arms inside the ride

I love working where there is funny.

Flash back to October 2008

More pics from when I visited Salt Lake in October.

Candice got her hair cut while I was there. Wendy and I went with. I don't know why she takes us anywhere. She cut off enough hair to donate to Locks of Love. Isn't Candice amazing? Here is Wendy as a partial red head.

Here we are, being adorable. Well, I'm trying. Wendy pulls it off effortlessly.

More pics to come as I transfer them from my camera. Stay tuned.

I adore anyone who adores anyone... Your turn!

Jessie is also very funny. This is why we're friends. And why we share a blog. Funny people should stick together.

This morning we were having a chat about wedding photographers (since this topic - weddings, not photographers in general - is on my mind of late).

This is a re-creation of how it went down:

Jessie: My photographer was about half my budget.
It was tiny. About [enter dollar amount].
Wendy: That was your budget? Or photographer?
Jessie: The budget was tiny. The photographer was full-size.

Why I adore Wendy

Sometimes Wendy and I chat via google. Today I was telling her about a story on CNN.com. It's about Michael Jackson's fans at his ranch, holding vigil. Blah, blah, blah.

The last two paragraphs read:

In the day's final development, a London woman filed a 93-page handwritten document in Los Angeles Superior Court claiming she was Jackson's secret wife and the mother of all three of his children.

In asking for all of Jackson's assets, the woman also added: "I have up to 30 children. My Father (Satan the Devil) Khalid Lucifer as he is known, gave them to us."

Wendy's response:
Something tells me her name is Billy Jean.

She's brilliant!

The reason for Jessie's "Yay"!

Date #19 was my favorite... and the reason for starting that whole thing in the first place. For me, with any big commitment I make -- buying a car, booking a holiday, dating a person exclusively -- I need to do enough research beforehand to save myself from "buyer's remorse".

So I did. I went out with a lot of really wonderful guys, and learned what I liked and what I didn't, what I consider an important quality and what I don't think really matters.

Anyway, Jared and I have dated for about 2 months since then, and 2 months before then, and most of the time in between all my other dates (which he knew about, by the way). We've never talked marriage, though a girl always hopes that's where it's heading (and if she doesn't, that's a sign right there to unplug and run)! So I hoped, but didn't really expect that he'd give me *this* on Monday night. :D

For Wendy

Lucky

My apologies to any followers of my '29 Dates'; I know it's been FOREVER since I've posted! So here's the update. Finally.

Date #19: 11 April
Jared, 22, musicologist student

As you know from Jessie's post, this day in history - April 15 - is notorious for such events as the sinking of the Titanic, the death of Lincoln, tax day, and my birthday. Oddly enough, it also happens to be the birthday of my date, Jared.

I met Jared while serving in the England Birmingham Mission. He says we met through his companion Elder Maggart, but I don't remember that; I remember meeting Jared as the new district leader in my second area. I experienced a lot while in that area - Welsh winters, Halloween, Christmas, "killing" my old comp, and training a new one. Through our 6 months there, we became great friends. We went our separate ways, and then, to our surprise, I was transferred to Leicester my last few months, as was he! He was my district leader for a second time, and it was fun to serve around each other again. We kept in touch after he went home, and my last companion and dear friend helped me realize that... I might actually like him more than just a friend! Wha?!? Never!

Anyway, long story short, we'd been on quite a few dates since December 2008, and decided we wanted to celebrate our birthday together. He goes to USU in Logan, so we celebrated while he was down for the weekend. He came to my house and made me one of my favorite homemade meals - cheese quesadillas. After dinner, I took him to Old Navy, and got him some great jeans for his birthday. From there we went to Cold Stone Creamery, where we each got free 'Like It' ice creams, just because it's our birthdays!! Awesome! Then we went back to my house and exchanged gifts (which is REALLY weird, because it's like Christmas... only, not).

As weird as it is that we share the same birthday, and a ridiculous amount of the same tastes in music, movies, food, and many other things, it's also really great to be with someone I get on so well with. He really is one of my best friends, and has been with me through thick and thin... (I hope that the future has a lot more 'thin' in it, at least where I am concerned. Ha ha.) And I hope the future has a lot of him in it, too.

The last time I had decent pizza:

While I was in Salt Lake (seven months ago) Wendy and I got the Pie delivered. So. Delicious. I ♥ the Pie. It has ruined all other pizza for me. They're gourmet, use quality ingredients, and have The Greek. I'm drooling.







Here are the pictures of the deliciousnessity:



Would red or white wine go with cheese pizza? If you answered chocolate milk you get two points!

This is the face of real happiness.

And in the background you can see the Goonies fireplace at the Beardalls'.

-

-

-

I think we consumed about seven billion calories that afternoon.

Our work here is done. And it was the best half hour of work ever.

You asked for it, you got it, Toyota

Date #18: a weekday in April
Josh, 31, Salesman

My office is relatively small. There are 5 warehouse guys, 4 office ladies, 3 salesmen... and a partridge in a pear tree. We are located just west of the Salt Lake International Airport. Which basically means that you better bring your lunch or expect to drive 20 minutes to the nearest food oasis. We are in the middle of nowhere. (We even had escapee cows out to pasture across the street one day.)

I got my job through a guy in my singles ward, so now we're coworkers now as well as fellow YSA. One night I told my visiting teacher about my 29 dates... who announced it at a to-do where Josh was present... who then decided to share it at work. Good grief!!

Well, I used this to my advantage one day. I was in a rush (probably from sleeping in after one of my many dates) and forgot my lunch at home. Oh the humanity! A hungry Wendy is not a pretty sight!! Josh and Justin were talking about Subway, so I said to Josh, "How about you buy me lunch and I'll call it a date?!" Josh is tall, thin, and relatively handsome. He owns his own home, and is the talk of the singles ward. He's pretty crazy, but a lot of fun... He's also not anyone I've ever even considered being interested in (despite our coworker's hopes). All these things make it so I feel I can be a lot cheekier than I would normally.

Well, imagine my surprise when he replied, "Ok. But I'm not paying for Justin's!" So we took everyone's sandwich orders (and their money) and went to the local Subway for lunch. He didn't bother opening my car door, but I wasn't bothered either. We chatted about the weather, about Google, and about the dangers of being picky with big lunch orders. It was a good time, albeit a short time! But I'm totally counting it -- we planned on it, we were paired off in going, and he paid. Done and done!

Tax day, anniversary of Lincoln's death and the sinking of the Titanic

Happy birthday, Wendy! I miss you.

Girls Don't Like Boys, Girls Like Cars and Money

Date #17: Saturday, 11 April
Jason, 32, Physical Therapist in training


I met Jason about 5 years ago in my YSA singles ward. He had recently gotten home from his mission, and he and his brother started coming to our ward. I'd been suffering with a very stale crush, so Jason was a breath of fresh air to me! He's tall, dark, and (I think) handsome, and really charming! I befriended him right away, and tried to invite him to this and that. He often couldn't go because of his strong family ties, but would make time for me when he could. My favorite memories were talking on walks we'd take on those perfect summer nights, and driving around in his old beater of a truck.

I discovered that he had a lot of admirable qualities and a wisdom that only comes with life experience. He also had a wicked sense of humor, and I do mean wicked! He can give you a grin that makes you wonder if he's a really funny guy or a complete psychopath! (I'm pretty sure he's just really funny...)

Well, time passed. He moved away, and so did I. I'd get over my secret crush and then I'd get a random email or text from him that made it all come back again. Curses! Eventually, his impeccable timing and disarming manner drove me completely mad, and I pulled what my friends and I refer to as a "Lisa Holiday*"!

...You know when there's that guy that you ardently admire and love, and you just want to get it off your chest and tell him?! Then you'd discover that all this time he'd felt the same, and all those what-if's would finally be answered?! Well, that's what she did. And so did I... For the record, pulling a "Lisa Holiday" may take the pressure off your chest, but in the end you'll wish that it was back on. In the form of a large rock. That will hide you from your shame. And you'll wish that you'd never taken that holiday from sanity.

Annywaay, for some reason, he was still willing to be my friend after all that. And even willing to help me on my way to 29 dates. I'd tried to connect with him, but his ridiculously busy schedule would not allow. He finally felt bad enough to squeeze in a lunch date with me, and so begins our tale.


He apologized profusely for being more than an hour late, but for some reason, I didn't mind too much. It could be that he's upgraded his vehicle to this beauty!! He says that he'll leave it to me after he dies. I told him I want that in writing.

I tried to explain that I love him as well as his car... but that may not be true! This car I lovingly refer to as the Batmobile. It. Is. AWESOME!! Not only is it gorgeous, but an incredibly smooth ride, even at 120... I mean, yeah. Back to lunch.

We went to Mimi's Cafe and had a really yummy lunch. The conversation was a bit strained because he'd scraped the car on the curb in the parking lot; I think I was almost as upset as he was! But eventually we relaxed and laughed and chatted for a long while. We were having so much fun, he asked me to spend more time with him while shopping for his friend's wedding gift, so we drove to Target and played the 'Saturday-shopping couple'. It was fun! Probably more fun as a non-couple than it is as a real one! We went back to my place, wrapped the gift, and ended up chatting the afternoon away!! Eventually, we both had to get on with our day -- to his evening plans, and to my next date!

*name has been changed

Toto, we're not in Kansas anymore.

Date #16: Friday, 10 April
Kendall, 27, soon-to-be Westminster grad and printing expert

Another wedding story: (I've been around a long time, so I have a few...) About 3 years ago, one of my best friends, Candice, met her sweetheart and planned a fabulous wedding. He had four groomsmen, she had four bridesmaids... and like something from "Picture Perfect", the happy couple noticed as they drove into the sunset that there were two of them that took a liking to each other.

Kendall and I have great chemistry. But even in our second meeting, it was evident that we are complete and total opposites. And I mean in Every. Single. Way. And though the phrase "opposites attract" may be true, it's also not a good formula for a relationship. So we never had one. Just a lot of fun flirting and hanging out.

Well, I'd planned to go out with him on this night, but got sick -- I'm sure it was divine intervention (which he doesn't believe in)! But by nightfall, I was feeling better, and I discovered that I'd previously purchased tickets to a comedy show in Provo. Well, I can't lose my ten bucks! And clearly, I can't find anyone else available on this particular night! So I called and cancelled my cancellation with Kendall.

So we went. I picked him up and we rushed down to the show... which just happened to be on the BYU Campus. (Mind you, he's not a member of my faith, or anyone else's for that matter - one of our many differences...) The group performing was called 'Divine Comedy'. Oh dear... The opening skit was about a strange LDS YSA phenomenon called Ward Prayer. *rolls eyes* Yeah... the rest of the ridiculously long performance, "Best of Divine Comedy", went from there to jokes about the BYU Honor Code, dating 'premies' (pre-mission aged boys, not boys who were born too early), and the like. It was awful. Mostly because I was sitting next to the only guy with facial hair. I mean, I like facial hair, but... "one of these things is not like the other!" And I'm pretty sure the "Best of..." could've fit into 15 minutes, instead of 130. Yikes.

We ran off campus as fast as we could -- maybe it's the age difference, or my life experience, but even I felt like we'd been abducted to another planet! -- and I took him back home to his inebriated roommates. I like those guys; they're all really nice and fun. And I like Kendall for all the fun that we have and how comfortable I am with him. But even if we're like those opposite magnets that are drawn to each other inexplicably, when it comes to anything more, I have to flip myself over and move away.

It's a small, small world!

Date #15: Thursday, 9 April
Shane, 26, SLCC Student and Server

About four years ago, two guys moved into my singles ward - Kendall and Shane. They were best friends, and really cool! Everyone liked them. Shane went on a mission, serving the same time as me. We kept in touch, writing back and forth and exchanging pictures from the mish. I'd show them to my comp, Sister Browning. After she came home, she married a guy named Jordan. He has a cousin named Kendall. Who has a best friend named Shane. Imagine the surprise when she discovered he knew someone in her mission, who just happened to be her old comp Sister Butler (that's me)! Crazy!!

After reconnecting at the wedding reception, Shane called me and asked me out. I was dating someone at the time, so it was put off... until now. He picked me up at my house and we went for a bite to eat. At the Cheesecake Factory! I adore the Cheesecake Factory! Forget the cheesecake, their food is amazing!! I got the Chicken Bellagio; he the Crispy Chicken... yumminess. I don't know it's real name, but I'm getting it when I go back! He's become quite the foodie from working at a restaurant, but I don't mind. I love foodies. Especially when they share! Our food came on platters; we decided to forgo all restraint, and eat half, then trade. (I'm not even going to calculate how many days worth of calories we ate! But I'm guessing too many.)

Between bites we chatted about our mission experiences, our common friends, our love of food, our quirky waitress, among other topics. It was fun, and I discovered that Shane is one of many great guys that I am privilaged to know! We got a Chocolate Raspberry cheesecake to go, and he took me to "that domey thingy in Draper". Some also know it as the "Whisper Dome" or that big gazebo in Draper park. It's really a romantic little spot, and really cool, too! You gotta try this thing! It's acoustics are better than the tabernacle! We played with that, and then ate our cheesecake, and ended the night passing on our acoustic knowledge to another couple, then driving home. It just goes to show that you don't have to have some elaborately planned to-do, to do something great on a date.

Where have they gone? I found one right here!

Date #14: Tuesday, 7 April
Lee, 26, Student and something else

What do you do when you have nothing to do? Well, if you're me, you find something to do! And with "Stimulus Tuesdays" at a local movie theatre, offering $6 tickets and $1 popcorn and drinks, you go to the cinema! For tonight, I was the leading lady to one of the sweetest guys I know, and the BEST date ever! Seriously, no matter who you are, when you are with Lee, you are the only girl in the world, and your wish is his command.

Lee and I met in a singles ward I'll refer to as the Ward of Misfit Saints. We were never close, but have kept in touch here and there, and I asked if he would participate as one of my 29 dates. He, of course, as all gallant leading men do, accepted. So, off to the theatre!

It was short notice (again, I'm good at that) so I drove. We went to the theatre and decided on "Race to Witch Mountain". Honestly, can you go wrong with "The Rock" in a film? Hello! Yum! (The answer is yes, actually, but this one was pretty good!) Since we had about half an hour before the film, we ran to A&W/KFC for a quick dinner, and then chatted in the car while we ate. Then we went inside and got our popcorn before heading into the theatre... Lee's such a good date, that Jennifer Garner tried to butt in and steal him -- See! And she's married to Ben Affleck!

There is something that makes everything that much cooler when you walk into the theatre and realize you're the only ones there! One time... Jessie and I had a whole theatre at the megaplex to ourselves! For a matinee price. You can do all sorts of fun when you're alone in a theatre... Like change seats, heckle like you're on MST3K, etc. It's awesome! And since Lee and I were all alone, we decided to sit in the middle of the middle... and maybe change seats later on (We were joined by others, so it wasn't meant to be, but it was fun while it lasted)!

The movie was pretty entertaining, and that and the movie-theatre butter was totally worth the money we paid! As I said before, Lee is the perfect date, and I hope for the day when he finds the nurturing woman he deserves, because truly, he does.

Dear Bloggers,

Yes, it's your blog and you can do what ever you like with it. Make it look like a scrap book? Sure! Post a ton of pics of you at various restaurants? Sure! Goofy polls in the side bar? I love those!

One thing that I can't handle anymore is the crappy music. Yes, you can have music on your blog. This is where can and should have very separate meanings.

Not having this widget I'm not sure if it's possible to not have it play when the page opens. At least, the very least, please put widget at the top so I can pause the music.

Thanks,
Jessie

No Reason to Burn an Armchair

Date #13: Monday, 6 April
Dave, 21, BYU Student

I have a confession to make; I have a soft spot for LDS musicians. In a lot of ways, I don't consider myself a typical Mormon girl; in fact, I think I'm pretty peculiar in the weirdest sense of the word. But like most, I really enjoy seeing LDS artists in concert. I know Peter Breinholt looks funny when he sings and doesn't have the most soothing voice; I know that all of Ryan Shupe's songs sound basically the same; and I know that most of the instrumentalists and/or acapella groups are totally interchangable. But it's good clean fun, and most of their concerts are free. (I love free!)

I also love the now defunct LDS boy band Colors. There's just something that draws me to them (at first, it was the gorgeous and talented barefoot drummer)! But I like their music, too. It's fun, and reminds me of summer nights in the park. Anyway, they and their friends held a concert to benefit Paul Cardall, who is awaiting a heart transplant. -- See more about him at http://mytricuspidatresia.blogspot.com/. When I heard what it was for, and who would be there, I got tickets... Now all I needed was a date, and that would make lucky 13!

The procrastinator that I am, I waited until the day of, and then sent out a mass text to see who could go. (I'm also now a chicken, and find rejection a lot easier to take via text. I know, I am a disgrace, even to myself.) The first to reply with a yes was yet another elder from my mission. He was one of my zone leaders and for some reason we always seemed to be arguing, but never on purpose. It's a elder/sister, love/hate thing.

Anyway, Dave came and picked me up for the concert... and boy does he clean up nice! I mean, as elders, they always look nice. But now, he looked like a Gap ad!! The Andrew McCarthy-ish pink and blue striped shirt with a light blue suit jacket, dark-wash jeans, European shoes... I was impressed! And looking forward to be spotted out with this one!

The concert was a sold-out show, and though some of the songs were a bit worn, they were all enjoyable. Kind of like a oversized sweater, or the fuzzy slippers that fit to your feet. It was long, but fun to see all those old friends on stage together, and even better knowing that your ticket price was doing some good.

The concert got out a little after 10 p.m. but Dave was still willing to stop for frosties at Wendy's. There is nothing better than a frosty! Dave thinks so, too, so he gets points for that! We parked... *gasp!* and ate our frosties in the car, while I perused his iPod library. It was fun to discuss music and school and life post-mission, with no arguments this time! I liked that he was willing to make the journey from Provo to go with me, that he didn't mind being out late to spend more time together (and spend money for something), and that he let me be radio (or rather, iPod) goddess for the time we spent in his car. He gets points for that, too! I guess now that we're not elder/sister anymore, we don't need the love/hate thing. 'Like' is a happy medium!

"I've seen that face, somewhere before..."

Date #11: Thursday, 2 April
Jake, 22, UofU Student/Cannonball employee

On my mission, I was trained by an absolutely hilarious girl named Anna! In our four and a half months together, we became great friends, and shared a lot of laughs and tears. As one of her best friends from the mish, I was asked to be her bridesmaid in February. There, I met her brother, Jake, whom I'd heard much good about already. He's hilarious, too, and a genuinely nice guy.

I got a text from her after the wedding saying he seemed to "fancy" me, so I gave him my number... and waited... and waited... and decided that I'd just get his number and invite him out! I'd been invited by a guy in my ward to attend a choir concert, and since Jake is the musical type, I thought he might like to come with me. He did, and even skipped class to do it! (Class ended up being cancelled, after the fact, but he still gets an A for effort in my book!)

So, I picked him up, and he graciously agreed to go to Chick-Fil-A for dinner, so I could satisfy my craving for the Chick-A-Flicka. Yay! And YUM!! Now that is chicken worth craving fortnightly!! It was good food, with good laughs and good company. He is so much like his sister! Which is great because we're good friends and have a blast together... In personality, looks, etc... Wow, he is so much like his sister!

After dinner, we ventured down to American 'Fark' and watched the concert; John Rutter is a great composer. `Nuff said... All that travel time back and forth gave us a good chance to chat, and on the return trip, for him to invite me to the symphony the next week - Wow! Asking for a second date before the first is over! Good form, Jake! Good form! (That always makes a girl feel good!)

Really? No, not really.

Date #10: Wednesday, 1 April
Rob, 28, IT guy for Goldman Sachs

This date I owe all to Jessie, my cohort and the owner of this blog... She is the Statler to my Waldorf, Ha-ha to my Loster. She. Is. My. Biggest Fan. She's pretty cool. She even has her very own Rob. According to her, everyone should have one. I'd have to agree. She loaned Her Rob to me for an evening out; I'm counting it as a date. And that makes ten!

He is a nice, jolly, red-headed guy, and even better - very cultured! If any of you are looking for a theatre buff, this is your guy! (Well, he's Jessie's really... but she'll share with the worthy.) On this particular night, he had his season tickets to Hale Centre Theatre. (The next night was the ballet, but that's another story I wasn't part of... can we get back to - me?!) We saw "Phantom", not the over-done Andrew Lloyd Webber, but the truer (and I think, better) version.

He picked me up and we went to Chili's - one of my favorites! We had a good time chatting over dinner and finished just in time to head next door to the theatre. We had great seats, and the show was fantastic!! The music was absolutely gorgeous, and the cast local all-stars. You really can't go wrong with taking a girl to Hale... Ha!!

After the play, he dropped me off at my house, said goodnight, yada yada yada... Next, we're going to pick out curtains!

April Fools!

What Chick Flicks Are Made Of

Date #9: Thursday, 26 March
Justin, 29, printing guru

One of my biggest fans took me out for Number 9. He is the Matty to my Jenna, the Michael to my Jules, the Harry to my Sally... I'm almost positive my family loves him more than they do me! Though we weren't close growing up, after high school we became good friends. We never dated, though one summer I wanted to. He tends to pop up between girlfriends and at important moments in my life. And through it all, he's proved himself to be perfect in all situations. I have never known more of a gentleman. (Kudos to his mom!!)

Because we are so comfortable with each other, it was a "What do you want to do?" intro to the date (Well, after I pried my mom away from him so I could go out with him). He quickly decided on a great little greasy spoon called Woody's Drive-In. One of my favorites! After our usual indecisiveness, we got our food and ate it in a little booth to the tunes coming from the jukebox. Awesome. Love the food, love the music, love the company... love it!

Then I ate my last bite of food, and took a bite that could've proved to be more than I could chew -- I asked him if he'd ever thought of dating me! [insert awkward pause] Turns out he had thought of it! [again-awkward pause] And decided that he cared too much about me to put me in his 'wake of destruction'... [yet another pause] Wha?? Um, thanks for that? [move to new topic!]

It's interesting to me that people are willing to miss out on potentially wonderful things in life because of a fear that they might not end wonderfully! But what if -- surprise! They do! It's sad, really. I'm sure there is truly greater rewards where greater risks (necessary ones) are taken. But I digress, and think that perhaps someday, he'll be left trying "not to think about what might've been"...

The date went from there back to our usual playful banter (some call it our constant flirting), a tour of his new home - aka construction zone, and watching a flick together on tv. A cozy evening out for a couple that never was.

Post Script

Date #8 - Epilogue

Anna called me with an update: She hadn't seen Taylor since our triple date together, but he finally caught her at her desk last week. He wanted to tell her what he thought of her sister-in-law (that's me) ... but didn't know how to say it. "Oh, here it comes. Go on, Taylor", she thought, "just give me the bad news..."

He'd expressed to her other coworker his thoughts on me a few days after our date, and said the same to her -- "I haven't been able to figure out what's wrong with her! I don't know why she's not married!..."

Wha?? Why, thank you kind sir! Cute thing doesn't even know what a great compliment that is!!
(Psst! I can answer your question, Taylor; there's nothing wrong with me! I'm just the perfect girl for too many people!)

It's just a shame he also expressed that he's "not a pursuer", because we all know that the persistent boys win! Am I right? But if it's not too insulting, he'd like to 'facebook' me. (Apparently, a new chick flick says that's an insult... Stupid chick flicks give us so many silly ideas! Don't believe them!) I say, that if he wants to be my new facebook friend, and better yet, my real-life friend, it's fine by me!

Some funny for my friend

One of my best friends needed a little funny today.

"68! 68! 68!"

Date #8: Saturday, 21 March
Taylor, 28, Church employee

For this one, my sister-in-law set me up with a coworker of hers. Apparently, he does what Anna does, but I don't know what that is exactly, hence his job description. We'd decided to double with her and my brother, and then a coworker and neighbor of theirs wanted in on the fun, too. A triple-date! Haven't had one of these since high school!

Because of logistics, it ended up that my brother and sister-in-law (Jeffrey & Anna) picked me up, and we met the others at Red Robin for dinner. I watched guy after guy come in, and looked for recognition on Anna's face to reveal Taylor's identity - Oo! Tall, dark, athletic, wedding ring... Hm, looks nice enough... Gosh, I hope not!... "Will the real date for Wendy please step forward?"

Taylor finally arrived (actually, he was very prompt and beat us there, but didn't recognize Anna as we passed by and was waiting for her call), and we went to the table. The others came later (p.s. If he looks familiar, it's because his twin is The 'Banjo Boy'). Anyway, we had a great time at dinner, and Taylor and I discovered we have a lot of tastes in common -- like our severe dislike for tomatoes, and pretty much every other veggie (Yes, I know - tomatoes are fruits - whatever). I also discovered that Taylor's absolutely hilarious!! Some of it in a Monk-ish way (the show, not the religious person or the animal), insisting on a straw with his drink and paying in cash instead of credit card. Both good ideas, if you ask me!

After dinner, we deliberated on what to do next, as there were kids and babysitters waiting on us. We chose to try our luck at bowling, the only sport Taylor will participate in. It was a great time! We all bowled badly, but it sure was fun to see Anna's gutterball lament, Jeffrey's sore swing, and Taylor's fabulous form. He wanted to know I was only recording him... If I can post it, I'll show you why.



We all had a great time, and Taylor is so fun to have around! He liked that I laughed at all his jokes, and I liked that he was entertaining enough to make me laugh. I decided that he would be perfect to watch You Tube with on a lazy Friday night or to shop for shoes with on a Saturday morning. Multi-purpose!

"Serenity now!"

Date #7: Thursday, 19 March
Brad R., job seeker

For those of you observant blog readers:

• No, this is not a second date, but a second Brad.
• Yes, I had two dates on the same day.

I'm not very involved in my singles ward. To say the least. A year of Activities Chair who does everything burned me out. After a decade, the novelty of meeting your peers wears off. Befriending people that don't live in the same town as you makes for a lot of travel. For all these reasons, I have only a handful of friends there. So I was fellowshipping... myself. I was talking to a pretty good-looking guy in my ward at ward prayer. He's nice, not too tall, but dark and somewhat handsome. He's a computer geek (I mean that in the nicest way possible; it really is a technical term) -- he even has a degree for it! But can't seem to find a job to use it in... Why do we go to college?!

Anyway, he mentioned a movie he watched recently based on a sci-fi series called "Firefly". I have only heard of this show because of my other computer geek friends and acquaintances, but apparently it had enough of a cult following to get a motion picture made. I said I'd be interested to watch it sometime... so we did.

I called him after I'd gotten home from dinner with another friend (does it count as a date if the guy is engaged -- to someone that's NOT you?), and he picked me up at my house. We went to his apartment to watch it online, because he has a sweet monitor and sound system. But no sofas. Seriously. He has no furniture whatsoever. Just a table with his computer on it, one camp chair, and four wooden dining chairs.

He's sweet enough to insist I have the camp chair - points for him! So we watch the film, both making comments here and there (mostly me, whenever there's something I don't like or there's a death of someone I do like) and afterwards he takes me home. He opened my doors - again, more points! - but was so terrified of the doorstep scene that he didn't even make it to the front porch! About halfway up the walk, he thanks me for a good time. So I extend my hand. Oh, wait, he was going for a hug... Abort! Delete. Initiate hug. Awkward!!

But I got an email from him the next day; he's got more movies! So it must not have been that bad. Ok, but next time, we're watching it at my house! Fifty-five viewable inches, and a sofa to boot!

Have My People Call Your People - We'll Do Lunch!

Date #6: Thursday, 19 March
Trevor, 24, server/student/future filmmaker

I love my home teacher! ... Straight from the set of a bad LDS film comes the tale of my next date. Actually, I think it might be a pretty cute LDS film. But I bet that's what they all think!

For the first time in about 7 years, I have a home teacher that actually comes! Just one of the two, but I won't be greedy -- our ward's about 6:1, girls to guys. My home teacher set an appointment, came, taught a lesson, and spent a while getting to know me. Our conversation revealed that we actually have a few things in common, the love of movies being first and foremost. The next week I suggested we get together during his Spring Break, and he took me up on it!

We decide via text on a lunch scene. With the help of a very well-informed friend of mine (thank you Betsy!), we meet on location at Sawadee Thai Restaurant downtown. Like all up-and-coming directors, Trevor craves exotic foods. The scene is set. Now, "roll `em!" ...

It's a beautiful clear spring day, and Wendy arrives just a few minutes early. She walks in and is immediately seated... right behind a separation wall. She texts him and tells him where he can find her, and then she waits. She anxiously looks towards the door with each new patron, until she notices a nice car with a familiar-looking driver pull into the parking lot.

He walks in and sits across from her, wearing his cool clothes and aviators, his thick blondish hair perfectly coiffed, looking like an actor he might direct someday. They chat and catch up on life since their last conversation, and enjoy the aromatic Thai dishes in front of them. The lunch hour passes quickly, and it's with a bit of regret that they part with a quick hug outside the restaurant. Wendy drives back to work with a smile on her face, thinking that this team of two is worth preserving! She may even consider quitting her glamorous life as an admin to be his producer.

Music and the spoken word ... hold the music

Today's music isn't really music ... it's an example of "Minnesota Nice." Or "Another Reason I'm Not in Love with Minnesota."

I'm a direct person. I give yes or no answers, not 'sorta' or 'if you want' answers. I ask 'will you' instead of 'do you want to'. Generally if someone asks me, "Do you want to [fill in the blank]?" and I don't want to I'll say no.

People here are evasion English speakers. It drives me insane. They also say supper. I'll rant about that later.

Here, Garrison Keillor explains how people here communicate. Take a listen.