Wonderworld

My nieces Bear Project

2009-05-11T13:24:00.005-06:00

Sophie the Bear's Denver Vacation with Becki!

Sophie the Bear joined me at work. On the left is Gideon, the therapy dog, who dresses up in costumes. The stuffed dog on the right is dressed in a similar costume. The Stroke survivors have to pick out the differences in the costume and write them down!

Notice the balls on top of the hats are different!

Gideon signing his name and paw print for Sophie's diary.

Me and a patient smiling with the bear.

Gideon waving goodbye!

Puppy Sitting

2009-01-11T09:25:00.002-07:00

It was my pleasure to dog-sit Koda and Roxie on Friday night. I have had the worst case of Puppy Fevah for over a YEAR now! At one point-Josh, Koda, me, and Roxie were all sitting on the couch together! Josh came over so we could take them for a walk, but both pooches were sleeping by 8pm. I think they must wear each other out in the day--good for them and their owners! Anyway, both dogs were well behaved (besides the pee-coat incident*:) and I got my fix.

I heart my job!

2009-01-08T10:27:00.006-07:00

My dear friends are maneuvering a parachute with their stroke side hand while passing the ball to one another. Most of them in the pic also need to regain speech, so we incorporate talking with this game.

Below: Steve is using a Saebo system, which teaches him to open up his hand. Stroke survivors must be able to make a fist to begin using this contraption. It is usually very hard relaxing those muscles to straighten fingers and open the fist. Steve can drink a Pepsi with that hand now:) In so many ways, he reminds me of Dad!

Left to right: Shannon, Biscuit , and Joann doing Pet therapy on the mats. As you can see, Joann has a brush in her right hand and Biscuit is in Doggy Heaven!

Teaching the gang how to put giant pants on one-handed!

A very proud moment while I am teaching the timid Vince how to rock climb. He loved it.

Field Day at the Stroke Program

2008-09-02T12:52:00.006-06:00

What better event to have at a Field Day with Stroke Survivors than a 3-Legged race?? The participants though that we were crazy to suggest such a thing, but they were good sports and did an awesome job. Better yet, there were no broken bones! Dick and I made it to the finals and ended up winning the contest. He was actually dragging me behind while yelling at me to go faster. The day was filled with horseshoes, bocce ball, card games, and a potluck lunch.

ON YOUR MARK, GET SET, GO!

Dick and I in the lead-Chrissy and Donna behind us.

Due to the conflicting scedule of school and work, my last day at the program is Friday, Sept. 19th. I can tell you that I have never learned so much, loved so much, and been inspired as much as I have in this job. I will miss the survivors, who have become my friends and support, a ton. On the other hand, school is my priority and I am sure there will be another exciting chapter awaiting.

My hero, coffee shop man.

2008-09-02T12:49:00.005-06:00

Here is a picture of a man roasting a fresh batch of coffee beans right in the corner of the shop. The smell is absolutely amazing!

My Pyramid

2008-08-18T14:14:00.006-06:00

My classes this semester are all exercise and nutrition oriented, so get ready for all sorts of new health information from me! You all should check out the new dietary guidelines and the easy web tools you can utilize. All I ask is that you take 5 minutes to cruise the website. At least put your personal information in and get your own pyramid calculated-there are many easy-to-use caloric counting tools as well! This is great way to keep track of your diet and fitness.

http://www.mypyramid.gov/

2008-06-25T20:43:00.002-06:00

You need chaos in your soul to give birth to a dancing star.
-Nietzsche

Only in Boulder

2008-06-16T22:20:00.004-06:00

I spent this weekend in Boulder for the HERA Climb 4 Life Event, a fundraiser for ovarian cancer. After Saturdays climbing, we were driving in Boulder when we passed a parade of 60 nude cyclists! Some were totally stark naked and others had painted skin. It was the craziest thing I have seen in a while...take a peek at this article.

://www.dailycamera.com/news/2008/jun/13/boulders-naked-bike-ride-saturday/

2008-06-13T17:30:00.003-06:00

The best way out is always through.

~Bob Frost

Dancing Tree

2008-06-12T12:39:00.000-06:00

This is not my photography, but a pic I found online...enjoy!

Grrrl's Climbing Weekend

2008-06-02T22:26:00.006-06:00

Over Memorial Weekend I joined a group of girls on a climbing trip to Shelf Road. We had an awesome experience while pushing our limits and laughing ALOT! Most the time in the rock climbing world there are boys, very brave ones, who take care of the lady climbers. We decided that we didn't need no stinkin' boys...until we discovered no vacancy in both campgrounds. Needless to say, we batted our eyes and squeezed in on a site with no problem at all!

To make things even more exciting than rock climbing, we had a nightly visit from a black bear. He was in search of marshmallows and beer! Each night the dogs would alarm the boys to jump out of their tents and start throwing rocks at the burly beast while yelling "Get the ef out of here, BEAR!!". It would dash away for the night, but come back in the morning looking for eggs and bacon. It actually stomped our tent down on Saturday while we were climbing, and left a few small holes in the material. I imagine the bear was playing reverse Goldilocks..."this tent is TOOOO big...this tent is TOOOO small..."

Hmmm- so maybe those boys are good for somethin'!

A Blur of a Becki

2008-05-14T12:38:00.001-06:00

2008-05-06T09:43:00.001-06:00

My apartment needs more warming

2008-04-24T14:09:00.001-06:00

...come and knock on my door...

Margarita Therapy

2008-04-16T09:08:00.005-06:00

Part of the gang out for lunch after our bowling outing. This is the second time that we have been bowling since I have worked for the program. It is absolutely amazing as well as rewarding to see the improvements of each participant!

4 Agreements

2008-04-04T10:59:00.001-06:00

BE IMPECCABLE WITH YOUR WORD
Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
DON'T TAKE ANYTHING PERSONALLY
Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
DON'T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS
Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST
Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgement, self-abuse, and regret.

2008-04-02T09:03:00.001-06:00

HERA event

2008-03-10T15:25:00.002-06:00

Here is information on the foundation and event I am volunteering to help with. It is good information for everyone to be aware of. This is a 3 day climbing event to raise money for Ovarian Cancer. If anyone wishes, I am taking donations but mainly trying to get participants and awareness out there! check out the website for HERA: http://www.herafoundation.org/ovca.cfm

Bastille climb

2008-03-03T09:13:00.003-07:00

There were too many people on Tower Two, so this is where I ended up on the beautiful 70 degree Saturday! Looking at the map: I started up line 13 , then cut to 14, and ended at the very top...

Tower Two

2008-02-29T13:34:00.004-07:00

I am going to make it to the top of Tower Two this weekend. It is a six pitch jaunt (you have to bring the rope up six times) which will bring us a few hundred feet above the ground! This will be my first time following up a traditional route. I won't explain details-ignorance is bliss and I love my Mom too much to scare the hell out of here! It is supposed to be 70 degrees and beautiful...I am going with an uber safe climber and will promise precise safety!!

I am soooo excited.

closer peek at the table

2008-02-28T08:45:00.003-07:00

Here is a closer look at the coffee table. It has four removable parts on the top: 2 microfiber cushions/footrests and two trays. You can put the two cushions on the same side as the couch and throw your feet up, or put the two trays by the couch for your food/drinks. If I wanted a plain old coffee table I could tuck all four pieces on the shelf below!! How great is this piece???!!!

Home Sweet Home

2008-02-22T08:51:00.002-07:00

Here are a few shots of my humble abode. It has been a long time since I looked forward to just being "home" after my day of work! Thanks to my Mom's Christmas presents, I have big girl deco, as well as a tree theme throughout. Below is a couch that my landlord sold to me out of pitty. For six weeks this was my lone piece of furniture! ...presenting.....

my new couch!!!

2008-02-14T12:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T11:23:00.001-07:00

Love is a friendship set to music.
~E. Joseph Cossman

Love is a canvas furnished by Nature and embroidered by imagination.
~Voltaire

Only from the heart can you touch the sky.
~Jalaluddin Rumi

INSPIRATION

2008-02-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

I hope to be able to create in such a manner...I will never

make something this beautiful if I don't try!

2008-02-01T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is the description of my sun/moon signs according to my birth chart. The surface astology signs seem ambiguous and vague. When you get into chart reading it is scary how the results can target a personality. This is just one of many interesting tools to look at a person's psyche.
Does this describe me?

3-12 Gemini/Pisces
The combination of your Sun sign and your Moon sign provides a high degree of what would be called a sixth sense that always helps you get along in the world. This blending is one of the most versatile and adaptable, but one in which frequent change and inconstancy can be a problem, at times. Learning the difficult lesson of concentration can be an early life challenge. You are highly receptive and sensitive to the intangible vibrations around you, and these will at least guide you along a path of survival. This receptivity of mind encourages assimilation of knowledge, making it possible for you to be well-informed on a variety of subjects, while not really becoming an expert on any of them. Sometimes you have trouble seeing things in true perspective because you are anything but a realist. Even when your senses are wrong, it's hard to convince you of the mistake. You have an illusory quality about you which keeps you somewhat remote from the world. Your goals and ambitions are never really high, but your creative and inventive abilities are considerable. You are happiest when in a harmonious environment where you can escape the various pressures and stresses of general business life, for which you are temperamentally unsuited. Your best talents center on the intellectual, literary, aesthetic or artistic, although your versatility may open up opportunities for you in any number of other areas. Your many talents notwithstanding, you may lack self-confidence. You try to justify the motives for all your actions, even when its not necessary that you do so. You have an innate feeling that you are often misunderstood. You're very introspective, often holding fixed ideas about yourself that may be at complete variance with the facts. You have a quick perceptive mind when you aren't too busy daydreaming. You have an instinctive hospitable nature, and this nature has a good deal of sympathy and understanding for fellow humans.

Creation

2008-01-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

I need to Wine 'N' Design SOON! Here is a photo of Nicki teaching Rachel how to solder. This was the first night we gathered to collaborate inspiration and creation. We need to get together soon for a session!

Quote of the Day

2008-01-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Success is the good fortune that comes from aspiration, desperation, perspiration, and inspiration.
Evan Esar

Meow

2008-01-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend I headed North to visit the wonderful Fort Collins. My weekend included sushi, margs, yoga, coffee, hiking, and visits with many friends. It was a packed and busy one, but far worth the energy spent.

On Sunday, Staci, Ben and I drove up north to Red Feather Lakes to find some snowshoe action. We didn't find enough snow to warrant putting on our snowshoes, but we did experience the coolest Colorado wildlife encounter I have had thus far in my six years of living out here!

It is mine...all mine.

2008-01-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

My new apartment is absolutely fabulous! It is located a couple of miles from Nicki and to the West of a beautiful park. It is the park where Nicki and I did most of our Half Marathon training. I am enjoying the solitude and privacy of residing independently. I feel proud, confident, and self reliant in knowing that I am fully responsible and finally put a roof over my head:) It is great!

On Saturday night my friends Rachel and Matt stopped by to warm my apartment with wine and a framed oil painting Rachel created. The bonus is that they live right across the street. We are going to get a long string and two tin cans to communicate from apartment to apartment. I am looking forward to this next year of adventure in my own place.

My new decor!

Christmas 2007

2008-01-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

A Day at Easter Seals

2007-12-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

Becki's Bootcamp

I have patients meet me at the “bar” for a margarita…no, they meet me at the bar to work on balance, movement, and strength in their legs. We were doing an activity where each participant would give 4 commands (step back, squat, kick leg, turn to the left, etc) and the others would have to remember all 4 commands and then do them. We have a man who moved from Cuba 25 years ago. He has the greatest accent and can do the cha-cha like no other. He kept telling us to do “squatches” and every time he said it the group would crack up! I had to rule “no more squatches” as I feared that someone was going to fall to the ground laughing. This is just a glimpse as to what I do at work. Gosh, I love my job!!

Becki Longstocking and Phil the Fireman
Cupcake lessons by Becki

My lovely

2007-12-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

Shot in the Dark

2007-12-06T08:18:00.000-07:00

I like to call t his one "Shopping Cart Ride at Midnight".

Growth

2007-12-03T16:20:00.001-07:00

My branches tend to grow in directions I have never imagined.

umph.

2007-12-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

I am having a very difficult time being inspired to continue in this blog. Most of you know that I am in a very new place in my life. The beginning of my blog until now feels like my past life. I have now been reincarnated and have no idea where to pick up...please bear with me!

For the fun of it...

2007-11-08T17:12:00.001-07:00

Marathon Mom finishing up the 26.2 miles. How did you feel on your run, Mom???

Nicki Lauper, the night before the Half...

A grand day in my life.

2007-10-29T21:19:00.000-06:00

Here are photos from one of the best days of my life. I pushed myself to the limit and now know that I am indeed alive! Nicki and I keep telling ourselves that if we can run in 40 degree temps and continuous rain-we can do anything. I have to give a warm thanks to all of you that supported us through our fundraising and training journey. We could not have done it without you. Our team raised over 7,000 dollars for the Easter Seals Stroke Program. The pledges have not been assigned yet, but will benefit the program immensely.Thanks again for ALL of your help! I think I can see the finish line from here, hence the smirk.
LOVE YOU MOM & DADd

I think my cheeks are jiggling in this picture!

Elife...

2007-10-27T10:33:00.000-06:00

Somewhere there's someone who dreams of your smile,and finds in your presence that life is worth while.So when you are lonely, remember it's trueSomebody somewhere is thinking of you.- K. Blackburn

The past cannot be changed,the future is still in your power.- Hugh White

Don't let today's disappointmentscast a shadow on tomorrow's dreams.- Author Unknown

Life is like a library owned by the author.In it are a few books which he wrote himself,but most of them were written for him.Harry Emerson Fosdick

Life is a pure flame,and we live by an invisible sun within us.Sir Thomas Brown

This is all I can think about right now.

2007-10-10T23:35:00.000-06:00

Half Marathon Playlist

2007-09-21T16:22:00.001-06:00

Please help me in a quest for the most uplifting and upbeat running songs for the race. Lme a suggestion, or send me an email. I think it would be inspiring to have a song that is a request from you while I am running 13 miles! Any suggestions?...
bhonner42@hotmail.com
Thanks!!!

A friends wedding in Chicago ...small world.

2007-09-17T23:47:00.000-06:00

Guess who I saw this weekend?

Toenail Painting Party!

2007-09-14T09:34:00.000-06:00

Outside of Lander, Wyoming

2007-09-04T21:57:00.000-06:00

WILD IRIS CLIMBING-LABOR DAY Becki the Lizard.

Exposure view from the top of a climb.

View down from the top of the same climb!

Above is me...leading a fun route. Day 2.

Climbing crag parking lot view...

Can you find Waldo?

2007-08-28T20:08:00.000-06:00

I mean, can you find Patty?

Patty's first trip to the Denver Zoo

2007-08-27T17:54:00.000-06:00

Lately, Pat and I are taking on the role of city dwellers, versus rugged mountain folk. There is an amazing amount of entertainment in Denver from theater, restaurants, and dueling piano's, to jazz in the park, Denver Zoo, etc!! It has been a lot harder to get out of town now that the Half-Marathon training is getting more intense. No complaints here, as I am still livin' it up!

Hungry, hungry hippos are disssscccusssting! They really are an animal that you never want to be compared to. EEEeeew.

This Vulture and Bald Eagle started pecking each other...this is a great shot of the Bald Eagle literally kicking the Vultures ass. Pat lost twenty dollars on this fight!

Cutest Asian Elephant. I could have watched him all day...

You can't tell by this shot, but this as the cutest baby Gorilla. He awoke from his sound nap, saw a group of ten humans and ran to the window. The first thing he did was knock and all of the little kids (including me) were laughing from their bellies. Aware of his easily entertained audience, he stuck his tongue out and smashed his face on the window (as you see in my super candid pic). It actually reminded me of Dad's face on the kitchen window screen!!!

Overall subliminal message: Come and visit me.

My Favorite Running BUDDY!

2007-08-25T11:16:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the confusion!

2007-07-23T18:18:00.000-06:00

I am posting these pics in a fast motion. Sorry if there are errors, but I am TOO tired to go back and check. Also, please go all the way down and read back up! Love and miss you all!!!!!!!!!

AND the hike down...

2007-07-23T17:48:00.001-06:00

View down the gulley.
This is a view from inside the of the gulley as we were just starting our journey downward.

Colorado's state flower, the Columbine. It is a $500 fee if you pick or kill a single flower!

Believe it or not, the hike down is worse than the way up. It is a lot of jarring on your knees and cranking on your quadriceps. To get to our warm car and Beau Jeau's Pizza-we had to go down a steeply inclined gulley while manuvering loose rock and many boulders. Finally we hit flat ground only to find ourselves sludging through a muddy meadow and brush past our necks...I was about to cry for the second time. Yes, at this point I questioned my sanity. To make this trip more memorable, we had to power walk the last mile and a half due to hail and rain...finally, we made it to warm food and I passed out at eight pm that night!

on the way to Mt. Evans

2007-07-23T17:38:00.000-06:00

This is the vies down from the backside of "the Sawtooth". I could barely look around me, as for the fear of losing control of my bladder! The far high hill is Mt. Bierstadt.

View on the way to Evans...

On top of the world...I mean ontop of Mt. Evans, the highest paved road in the US. If we were smart we would have gotten up at noon and drove up instead!

It is worth getting up at 3:30 am for this!

2007-07-23T17:18:00.000-06:00

Why don't you come along?
This is the hiker view from the trail in the very beginning of the 10 mile hike. Pat and I did our first 14'ers of the season, Bierstadt and Evans. It was the most physically and mentally challenging summits I have accomplished so far! Here are pics of the way to the top of Bierstadt...at this point I could not breath, my heart was racing, and was scared to death of what was ahead of me.

This was the part I was fearing. To the right here is "the Sawtooth". You have to hike just below the zig-zagging ridge to get to Mt. Evans. There is a narrow trail on the left wall that you can see to the left of "the Sawtooth (the wall that is in the shadow). I started to cry and was shaking. Pat informed me that there was no turning back...from there on I was telling myself 'breathing in strength and breathing out fear' for the rest of the hike.

Can't forget these!

2007-07-23T17:13:00.000-06:00

Here is Dad displaying his "Three Beers Down" act of entertainment...hahaha!

Mom made us do it!

2007-07-23T17:08:00.000-06:00

I still think this is all a dream...

2007-07-23T16:58:00.000-06:00

Who would have EVER thought that Mom and Dad would be so brave? Most people have seen these photo's, but I have to put it in the digital blog archive. For those of you that haven't seen or heard, here are photo's from out 2 and 3 Class rafting trip. It is also proof of Dad's fullfillment of one of his lifelong dreams...Mom on the other hand, had to of had the biggest adrenaline rush of her life!

Me casa!

2007-06-11T21:23:00.000-06:00

I forgot to take a pic by a cactus!

2007-05-30T17:46:00.000-06:00

Here is the last minute picture I took by a cactus while in Arizona...we ended up seeing lots of friends and hung out by a pool for two days. We planned to float down the Salt River, but it was closed down due to Memorial Day over population! Sounds like it would have been so packed that it wouldn't have been fun anyway. The 97 to 100 degree temperature was mild for natives of AZ, but a bit too warm for me. I couldn't live in such arid and predictable weather year round, but it was fun for a few day!

Watch out for giant turkey legs...

2007-05-24T16:37:00.000-06:00

We stopped at Safeway after my birthday party and here is what I picked up...it doubles as a club. Mom, does this make you feel a little safer? When you visit we can eat these all day -and you can keep the bad guys away by hitting them with your turkey leg!

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to...

2007-05-24T16:26:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Nicki threw me the best Birthday Party a girl could ask for! Streamers, candy, wine, cake, icecream, and even party favors.

Thanks so much for the cute outfit and Ipod, Mom!!!

I felt like a berry, berry special girl!!!

Twenty Damn Seven Years Young......

2007-05-20T22:33:00.000-06:00

LOOK WHAT I GOTS....Saturday morning Pat went out to "look for" my birthday present. Due to our tiny apartment, lack of hiding space, and inibility to keep a secret, he gave it to me immediately. I am guessing that part of the early present decision was because he wanted to ride this weekend! I was so surprised, as the bike was on top of his car, and I didn't notice it when I got in the car on two different occasions (imagine that!). *For those of you that don't know, I am ridiculously bad at noticing insignificant AND significant details.

Anyway, I was in tears and so excited to be able to hit the hills and commute around the city. Now that the weather is nice I have been seeing people out and about on bikes, and I was so jealous and angry that mine was stolen. I really didn't expect this great of a gift. I am pretty sure it exceeded the excitement when I received my pink and purple dirt bike from Santa in 1987!

How could I forget this?

2007-05-18T23:58:00.000-06:00

*Somewhere...over the rainbow...way up high*. We could see the end of the rainbow and spent hours trying to find the pot o' gold!

Our cute tent...below Pat is smooooshing me while I slave over dinner!

SHOULDN'T HE HAVE TWO HANDS ON THE ROPE?

Shelf Road Climbing with my baby.

2007-05-17T21:44:00.000-06:00

This is how I feel about migrains ruining our day of climbing!

Pat and I went to a climbing crag about two hours south of Denver. It was great weather and we made the trip a safe one...it was the first time he and I went climbing without anyone else with us. We were nervous and learned another form of trust in our relationship! Here are some photos...enjoy!
Glamour shot with the flashy pink rope! Up close cactus shot...
This rock is beautiful colors...felt like I was in another State! It is very desertous around this area.

Green Lemon-Cinco de Mayo!

2007-05-07T17:09:00.000-06:00

Pat and I went to the Greenlemon show on Saturday with a couple of friends. The music gets better and better everytime I see them play. Pat is even starting to enjoy the tunes!

The girl that I moved to Fort Collins with, Holly, was there and lives in Denver, too. She was with me the first time I ever met these guys. She is moving back to Sioux Falls in August and starting a fashion line. I think she is calling it, Sanfords (hahaha:).

It was a great Cinco de Drinko....

Go Rockies!

2007-04-26T16:32:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday the Rockies spanked the Padres and I was there to...uh, kinda watch it!! It is hard enough for me to stay engaged in a baseball game. Having almost all of my favorite Coloradoan's there with me made it nearly impossible!

Easter Seals recieves 50 free tickets about 4 times during the season. We only have 32 patients and most of them don't go. If the tickets aren't used, then we aren't going to get them in the future. Therefore, I offered tickets to Nicki, Tammy, Dolan, Hannah, and Pat. We had a great time in perfect baseball weather!

Ganstas in Paradise.

2007-04-22T19:46:00.000-06:00

Here is a few photos that our pimp took of us...we are livin it up-hard. yo. Notice the switcheroo of our shoes...this is where the inspiration of this photo was born. Pat thought it was funny to see me in these shoes. Since we were in the heart of the ghetto...why not flash a few gang signs and take a pic!?

Mom, this one's for you. Happy Birthday!

My other NEW obsession...

2007-04-21T01:18:00.000-06:00

http://www.9news.com/video/player.aspx?aid=27142&bw=

Here is a link to a website of the same woman from below...this video is a little more detail. I couldn't help, but get teared up when viewing this!
I do work with Emily now on Thursdays...today they asked me to be there Monday through Thursday and I am enthralled! This is more reasons to eat right and continue to live a healthy lifestyle!

First weekend out climbing this season.

2007-04-19T14:32:00.000-06:00

Boulder Canyon, Co.
Last Sunday Pat and I met friends up the canyon to climb. ONe part of me was not looking forward to going, due to the lack of shape I am in! The other part of me decided that maybe this would be the motivation I needed to get back into it.
I wished I would have put my hand in the air and said "LOOK, NO HANDS", but it was too late when I thought of it! Pat is "cleaning" the route and is off of the rope that is in my hand, so I could safely grab the camera and take a pic! I am pulling up this climb in the hardest way! The intensity of the sun is ten times stronger than it would be on the ground. The reflection off of the rock was sucking my energy...oh no, it is because I am out of shape!
This is the view from the first area we were climbing. It was quiet and beautiful until we hiked down 50 feet and we could hear the noise from the highway down below. You could never tell by this pic that the road was right there!

It ended up being sooo refreshing for both Pat and I to get out in the mountains. More and more of me thinks that it these mountains are embedded in my soul. Ironic that I was CONCEIVED in the Grand Tetons, eh! The both of us have been uplifted throughout this week with a sigh of relief through the contentment of nature. It is hard to explain, but I am sure we all have a certain something or a few things that give us this feeling of completion and balance.

I guess you could say that the addiction is back in full action!

Read this article!

2007-04-17T21:49:00.000-06:00

http://denver.yourhub.com/Lakewood/Stories/Health-Fitness/Resources/Story~279989.aspx

Another climbing lesson...

2007-04-13T19:50:00.000-06:00

Pat and I had a great time with Aaron and his friend at the climbing gym. I think Aaron has the bug...he bought shoes and climbed the next night after we showed him the ropes (pun)! Nicki wants to get out again, too, so it must run in the family!!

Part-time employment...better than nothing!

2007-04-10T17:14:00.000-06:00

Today I was offered and accepted a job at Easter Seals Colorado Stroke Program as a Rehabilitation Aid. I will I work right next to a Physical, Occupational, Recreation, and Speech therapist!!! We work with stroke and brain injury patients...so EXCITING! I have always wanted to do OT, but wasn't completely sure about committing to 2 years plus the 4 years of undergad. work... This is amazing timing as I was telling Pat that I was sick of entry level jobs, and thought I should get my B.S. I have heard a lot about recreational therapy and am interested in that field. This job will provide me the opportunity to be hands on in making a solid decision of my future. This is a non-profit company that is currently seeking more grants to get my position full-time. The more I give and better I do, the better chance of getting the grant!

I won't hear back from the Special Olympics position until next week, so I just moved on this one. I have a couple of other flexible part-time options I can do until this opens up to full-time. I start on Thursday and will keep you posted!

http://co.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=CODR_StrokeDayProgram

Be our guest, be our guest...

2007-04-08T13:43:00.000-06:00

Last week Kelli, Jay, and Josi visited us in our wee lil' apartment! It was quick, but at least you were able to see where I live, as well as open my eyes to new cuisine. We went to an authentic Ethiopian restaurant downtown Denver. You take a piece of spongy flat bread, Injera, and scoop up various bites of your meal with it. No utensils! We ate beef and a variety stews with the Injera...very yummy. It was a long enough trip to catch a drink at the local bar, hit up a neat shopping area, catch a cup of coffee, and see Nicki, Bran, and Angie.

We miss you sooo much...you need to visit again, soon!

XOXO

I miss my Grandma!

2007-04-08T13:39:00.000-06:00

Is Mom Mini-Phyllis, or what? Grandma does no look like she is having very much fun at all! I bet deep down she really is...this reminds me sooo much of Mom!

Inspiring Quotes

2007-03-29T08:57:00.000-06:00

*Everything that can be counted does not necessarily count; everything that counts cannot necessarily be counted.
~Albert Einstein

Few are those who see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts.
~Albert Einstein

The adventure in life is to learn. The goal in life is to grow. The nature in life is to change. The challenge in life is to overcome. The essence* of life is to care. The secret of life is to dare. dThe beauty of life is to give. The joy of life is to live.
~William Arthur Ward

Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
~Albert Einstein

=And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
~Anais Nin

The opposite of war isn't peace...it's creation! *Viva La Vie Bohem!
~RENT

LoveY is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired.
~Robert Frost Life

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage.
~Anias Nin

Good friends are like lstarsl . You don't always see them, but you know they are there. ~Unknown

Be the changeq you wish to see in the world*.
~Gandhi

lAll religions, arts, and sciences are branches of the same tree.
~Albert Einstein

dreamy...

2007-03-27T13:52:00.001-06:00

Activity Services Facilitator
Special Olympics
Comprehensive Services
Full-time: Responsible for supervision, training (coaching), and documentation for clients participating in recreation activities. Activities include all Special Olympics sporting events, camping trips, social activities and activities with an emphasis on health and fitness. This position requires a very flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and overnight trips. Occasional overtime may be required. The ability to work independently is essential to this position. For more information contact Jenny Kukoy at 303-858-2039.

*I am applying for this position...first of all, I love the full package of responsibilities. Sencond of all, is would make my experience in assisting people with disabilities SO well-rounded. Thirdly, it is two of my top passions combined!!! Cross your fingers and toes for me...

Go Nuggets...

2007-03-27T10:58:00.000-06:00

Pat bought us tickets for the Nuggets game over a month ago. He was like a little kid waiting for the circus to come in town. He would spew random statistics and history of the team and players. He "forced" me to watch the games and "get to know the team" for the entire month-in between watching March Madness! Side note: Two years ago I swore that I was going to break up with him every March to early April...this year I actually enjoyed the games.

I was always perplexed about the fact that I don't like watching sports on t.v., but athletics were my life in high school. I am still very active and you would think I would appreciate it more...maybe, I thought, I am just rebelling against Pat's profound love for ANY televised game!

Finally, I figured out that I love watching LIVE action. I would seriously ask Pat if he wanted to go the a Rockie's game last year and he thought I was being facetious. At the Nugget's game I was grunting, cheering, and yelling...totally into it! When Carmello Anthony would score the crowd would chant "Mellooo" in a low voice. I looked at Pat and was like, " I am totally in on that the next time." He was laughing sooo hard! Next game I am going to be wearing a jersey, and have my face painted in yellow and blue-just wait.

The coin flip...two of the best players from each team are below. There is Carmello Anthony with the light blue headband on!

Tick-a-tick-a-tick.m Half time entertainment cracked me up (thanks to Nicki's mad Riverdancing skills...)!

The Suns were predicted to crush the Nuggets, but it didn't happen. The score ended up winning 101 to 131...
Pat and I after the game...! I warned Pat that if we move back we are getting season tix to have to get season tix for Skyforce...haha!

I aaaam SPARTA!!!!!

2007-03-21T23:08:00.000-06:00

Feast your eyes on the Spartans' visuals. The battle scene choreography is truly amazing and the cinematography reminds me of....um, Moulin Rouge gone very bloody in 479 B.C. I tend to be resistant to action packed, gruesome war flicks, but ultimately end up enjoying them. Here is my little scheme: Pat drags me to the theatre to watch a boy movie, I tell him only if he pays (hehehe), and then I leave the theatre licking blood out of my teeth and smiling while I do it!

*The other bonus to this particular movie is the thousands of Hee-Man-esque six packs (I am sure are not digitally enhanced) running around with a speer and a shield...

If I only had a heart.

2007-03-20T11:25:00.000-06:00

This floral shop has an ode to "baby Love, Love" in the window! Pat and I were crossing a very busy street and he points and says “Luff, Luff!”. I ran over to the window and asked him to take a picture of me-total tourist!! I think he was more embarrassed than I was.
Here's one for Nicki!

3 months old.

2007-03-20T11:22:00.000-06:00

Jo-Jo and her auntie. Nicki, check out her little leggings!

2007-03-20T11:16:00.000-06:00

Josi was dedicated and blessed the weekend I was back home. Look at this precious girl. Danni and Brecli said that her jacket made her look like a "rich baby"! Love, Love....

A Day on the Town!

2007-03-19T17:40:00.000-06:00

Saturday Pat and I headed out on a walk to the coffee shop and grocery store. We had to pick up a chunk of corned beef and cabbage for our St. Patty's dinner.
Pat is reading away...
Seriously read "the Secret Life of Bee's"...it is REALLY good!!

Mom...here are two gangsta's we walked by. I was a little apprehensive until they got close enough to notice they are 12 year olds!! Pat said he could totally beat them up for me if he needed to!!!

GareBear.

2007-03-19T17:37:00.000-06:00

I see a little Grandpa Ed in this shot...so cute! When are you coming out to visit? We are going to have to blind fold Mom the entire time we are driving anywhere in Denver. When we get to our safe destinations we wil unveil her eyes!!! Love you and miss you...

My new favorite coffee shop...

2007-03-16T19:31:00.000-06:00

Here is a few pics of me in my new favorite coffee shop in Denver! I was sad that there wasn't a coffee shop here that drew me in, like the comfort of a long lost friend. There were a few different places in Ft. Collins that I frequented...sometimes I would study at one place in the morning and go to another that night! The funny part is that this place and the costomers remind me of Fort Collins. I fell head over heals for the giant chairs with swirls ontop!

I love the flowers boxes in the window with a stained glass pannel hanging from above. Notice the front of the shop is a garage door. On the nicer days the door is opened up all the way (thanks to minimum amounts of bugs in CO.). You can be inside and outside at the same time!

Reunited and it feels so good...

2007-03-12T16:31:00.000-06:00

The stranger in this picture is Aaron's buddy that moved out with him, Brian. These guys were a ton of fun. I told Aaron that Gramps would NOT approve of his beard...but he and his friend went way out of there way to walk us to meet Brandon. Very nice! What did Grandpa call beards??

blurrrrg.

2007-03-12T16:22:00.000-06:00

These glasses make you feel soo drunk. No, maybe it is the fact that too many hours were spent catching up with the long-lost cousin...and sister! We had a great time at the dogpark, then headed downtown Denver for lunch. We hit up the Rio, a restuarant, that is known for the strongly poured Marg's. We met up with Brandon at an improve comedy club and laughed out booties off. The funniest actor is a USD alum, so both Nicki and Aaron knew him. Anyway, we hit up one more bar after the show...and Nicki pushed me home in a shopping cart while I sang (or yelled) "Just a Shhhpoon Full of SHHHugar...helps THE mEdicine go DOWN..." Nicki, maybe I was trying to give you hangover advice before the hangover set in...??? I don't know!!! I am taking a 30 day without alcohol challenge starting yesterday!

I heart my state.

2007-03-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

I didn't want anyone to miss out on these photos. They were taken by Ansel Adams...I mean I snapped these shots in Rocky Mountain Nat'l Park on the coldest day for snowshoeing in history. Who forgot her gloves??? Just guess...don't worry I had my ID, car keys, and wallet-miracle!
This was taken on the main road while driving into the park. I have been here so many times and have never seen it like this. It would be cool to take a picture every month and make a calendar.

Patty Whacker and Ruby Frost Bitten Two Toes.

take a moment to smell the flowers!

2007-03-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

Lookee!! This was my boyfriend's parting gift...I took a picture so they would last longer. Can you smell them from there?? This photography really was resul of my procrastination and a bit of boredom. I went grocery shopping, cooked, and cleaned this morning. It is a beautiful Denver/Colorado Spring day and I am hoping to get out and enjoy the day...at least go for a jog!

MY DRIVE BACK TO D-TOWN

2007-03-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

Kearney, NE bridge...oooo...aaaahhh.

SUFU GANG-THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE WONDERFUL HOSPITALITY! MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU.

HERE ARE A FEW SHOTS FROM MY EXCITING DRIVE HOME WITH A MIGRAINE. MOM SUGGESTED I STOP BY THE DOLLAR STORE FOR SUNGLASSES TO RELIEVE A BIT OF DISCOMFORT...NOT BAD FOR A WHOLE 99 CENTS! THEY DEFINITELY MADE THE TRIP A BIT BETTER. DRIVING THROUGH NEBRASKA SOLO IS LIKE HELL ON EARTH. I ONLY HAD DIGITAL RADIO. THAT MEANS, I HAD COUNTRY AND TALK RADIO UNTIL LINCOLN, AND THEN ZERO TO TWO STATIONS UNTIL AN HOUR OUTSIDE OF DENVER. PAINFUL! THANKS TO THOSE OF YOU THAT ANSWERED YOUR PHONE AND PREVENTED ME FROM NAPPING BEHIND THE WHEEL!!

Big Baby Sho-Sho.

2007-03-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Look at sweet Baby Josi!! For those of you who have not seen her lately-I am warning you that person in picture is bigger than what appears below. She is around 15 pounds and is full of laughs. Josi is lucky that she was born with the same silly sense of humor her mom was!

Swimming Excitement!

2007-03-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

We went swimming at Paige's Uncle Jims apartment and the kids had a blast. The most exciting part of the day was when Max starts yelling "Danni is saving Macy! Danni is saving Macy!". We look over to see Danni Baywatch Honner with Macy held above water in the deep end. Earlier Macy handed her mom her orange wings and Paige set them on the table while we were talking. I guess that was a green light for Macy! Macy was not scared at all, Danni was panting like no other after her life saving swim, and we couldn't help but to laugh...

Score was 5 to 2!

2007-03-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here is Danni going for the basket. I was glad to catch her last basketball game. She scored five out of five points in the game. She is a little scrapper and made her Aunt proud!

I heart Sister Sushi Night...

2007-02-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

Monday Night Nicki and I went to have girl talk over a Coors Light and a plate of scrumptious SUSHI!! See the window cut in the ceiling above my head in this picture of me?? Well, the "sushi love" photo is taken from above this window and down to the sushi bar...so cool.

Bathroom self portrait...funky!

2007-02-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here is some more evidence of our weekend in a little mountain town outside of Vail, Edwards, CO. Pat had a couple of South Dakota friends visit... Below is Aaron, Ryan, and Patty.

Above Drunkbutts: Aaron, Pat, Angie, and I.
Drunkettes above: Angie, me, and Delya (we stayed at her house in Edwards)...it was a very fun weekend had by all!
I have more pics that I will have to post of Greenlemon...

Sing Sing for Angies Birthday

2007-02-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

Too much fun has been had...and my liver is sad!

2007-02-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, ya'll. It has been a vacation in Denver since I moved a month ago. It has been a long time since I could say "yes" to any social engagements...I know now that I need to start saying "no", because my poor liver is tired of trying to detoxify my body!!! It has been lots of fun, lots of visitors, and lots of drinking. I am thinking that this will be the last binger stage of my life...I hate goodbye's, but this one is a happy one.
I think a real job is just around the corner...I will keep you all posted. I can't wait to settle into a routine! Enjoy the pics...
Angie and I will celebratory shots on her birthday. We met up with her and a group of her friends at a dueling piano bar, Sing-Sing.

Props

2007-02-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a props to the most consistant Blogger I know! NICKI HONNER...this one's for you. You inspire me everyday to post more often-I am going to try and be more active on here (again!)...

She also the "weener" of the SISTERWorm contest as well...and here is proof!

Here is a picture of Becky's wedding!

2006-12-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

HOME TomOrrOW!!

2006-11-22T10:31:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to see you all tomorrow...I am pretty much writing this so my discusting Halloween pic will disappear!!!

BAby FeVAhh.

2006-11-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

I was looking at funky baby shirts for Josie today. Oh my gosh, there are some very innapropriate t's, along with some adorable one's. Check these out! Here are some of the rediculous sayings I saw on baby jumpers and t-shrits:
"my daddy drinks because I cry", "Boob Man", and "my Dad's tattoo's are cooler than yours." My favortie was a jumper that said "the party's in my crib." Most of them are funny, but not realistic! I think I am old, because I couln't actually see a baby wearing something so crude! It is so exciting that in one week, we will have a new addition to our family!!!

Soul Sista!
Nick-wouldn't Brandon love this one...

Happy Halloween!

2006-10-31T12:53:00.000-07:00

Becki Carmen and Tammy!My last resort cotume I borrowd from Tammy. I have never gone out in public looking this scandalous. It was incredibly nerve racking making sure that all body parts were covered, and holding my skirt down for every breeze that blew. Yeah...my eyes are closed, but you get the hint. It took me one glass of wine to even look at the costume, then a second glass to put it on!

Anyone hungry?

2006-10-31T12:38:00.000-07:00

A month and a half ago Nicki and a couple friends went out on the town in Denver for "Girls Night Out". At two a.m. we decided to buy a piece of pizza from a legit man selling it outside of a pizza place. We were swarmed with drunk guys asking us silly questions and lying about where they were from...in the corner of my eye I see this guy dropped his pizza on his foot (as seen to the left!). I ran over to him to take a picture along with his friend...then the guys picks up the piece and EATS IT!!! Funny that people are so much smarter when they are sober, but choose to get drunk. Yes, I mean me as well when I say "people"...

The King of Rock and Roll!

2006-10-22T09:17:00.000-06:00

This year Nick and Susan decided to take over our Annual Pumpkin Carving party, which was a slight relief to our busy house. Friday night was the big night and last minute Hannah decided she didn't want to be a mermaid as usual (her feet turn out like fish fins-so it is perfect). We talked to Dolan and he informed us that he was going to be Elvis this year. Hannah and Tammy went out and bought a poodle skirt and bobby socks, and she went as 'Elvis' Biggest Fan'...we put red blush and bright red lipstick on her! It was adorable! Diane tried to burn Elvis' Greatest Hits into Dynah, so she could play "Hunk of Burnin' Love" to Dolan, but Diane couldn't figure it out. We brought the CD along, and everyone danced...it was a great time! I hope to get pictures of a disc, so I can put them on display.
Miss you all and wish you a safe Halloween!