Dear Life...

Dear Willy Wonka,

2012-01-17T22:46:00.000-08:00

Thank you for creating the one thing that helps me get through the weeks leading up to Valentine's Day:

Gobstopper Heart Breakers

2/$5 at Associated Food stores

Dear California,

2011-12-25T22:49:00.000-08:00

Thank you for the 75-degree weather. I thoroughly enjoyed running outside on Christmas Eve and getting a sun tan. I really appreciate it when mother nature helps me multi-task.

Thumbs up Golden State.
Merry Christmas.

Dear Can I get an Amen?

2011-11-11T12:21:00.001-08:00

Read it.
You'll love it.
If you don't: watch Friday Night Lights.
You won't regret it.

Dear I couldn't resist,

2011-10-05T20:37:00.000-07:00

I don't post much re: my feelings towards the opposite sex. Mostly because I've been told on more than one occasion that I'm bitter.

I'm not bitter (as you all roll your eyes and think, 'right val, right').
I'm just protective of women everywhere and I want women (and men) to realize they can do better and achieve a higher standard.

Just read the article below...if you know me then you know why I'm posting this.
If you don't me...well...you know me a little better now.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/04/opinion/bennett-men-in-trouble/index.html

Dear Microsoft Updates,

2011-09-19T23:20:00.000-07:00

Are you really necessary? Say on a scale of 1-10?
Because I feel like you occur really frequently which makes me think one of the following:

a) The software I originally purchased is faulty.
b) You want to take up space on my hard drive causing me to run out of room, leaving me with the only option of buying an external hard drive so I have more storage capacity that will only end up being consumed by more Microsoft updates.
c) I'm a nerd for even caring about this at 12:19 in the morning.

Dear for the LOVE,

2011-08-21T19:27:00.001-07:00

You.
Have.
GOT.
To.
Be.
KIDDING.

http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/sony_pictures/ghostriderspiritofvengeance/

I'm not promoting the movie.
Nor am I promoting the trailer.
I encourage you to save yourself 2.5 minutes and think happy thoughts instead.

Dear Lake Powell,

2011-08-18T01:30:00.001-07:00

I am in love with you.

Dear Batting Cages,

2011-08-18T01:19:00.001-07:00

Since when did I become a closet softball junkie? I could spend hours - HOURS - at Mulligan's in Murray (and no, that's not the name of a pub in South Jordan).

I'm shopping for a bat.
I MUST get cleats.
And possibly gloves?

I mean, I'm playing on a city league team in the fall. So I need to get the gear, right? Look the part? I mean we all know 80% of enjoying a workout comes from wearing a smart outfit.

I wish I had tried this sport in my youth - because I clearly haven't kept up with the whole cheerleading bit - I could be making the big $$. Trust me, I'm not THAT good, but I'd like to believe with the proper training added to a healthy amount of pressure from my father and coaches, I would have developed into a softball phenom.

PLAY BALL!

Dear Olympic Park,

2011-07-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

Feel the rhythm, feel the rhyme...who needs Cool Runnings when you can ride an actual bob sled (sans ice; my kind of bob sled).

I went for work and it was a blast. One of the few team building activities I'd recommend.

Next up: the skeleton!

Me and my client contact - she looks super hard core, I was going for the friendly bobsledder look.

The winning team! We came in first, just barely over a minute. I was so excited!

I'm in position 4 (the very back) - it was rough, but awesome!

Dear Urban Retreat Salon & Spa,

2011-07-12T20:31:00.001-07:00

Thanks for the facial that was mediocre.
Thanks for the massage that hurt like - - - - but did the trick.
Thanks for the masseuse who was able to multi-task and get a few texts in while she worked out the knots in my neck.
Thanks for not responding to my email re: the awful experience.

As a paying client, I really appreciate all you've (not) done.

XOXO

Dear Self-Evaluation,

2011-05-09T01:33:00.000-07:00

It's pretty straight forward...

Dear from the mouth of babes,

2011-05-01T23:46:00.000-07:00

I've decided to take my nieces and nephews out on a date when they have a birthday. They get to choose the activity (within a set price range) and I get the chance to spend time with them one-on-one. It's a win-win, but I really feel like I am getting the better end of the deal.

Here are a few of the things that have been said while out on these dates.

Berlin, 4 years old
1) I think I'd rather have a toy than see a movie.
2) Let's go home and play with the toy. I can be Belle, and YOU can be the horse.
3) My mom is going to say, "This toy is awesome. Way to go Berlin!"

Kemry, 5 years old
1) My favorite color is the rainbow...with a little bit of brown.
2) I really need to have ice cream. I'm exhausted.
3) Best! Ice Cream! Ever! (said about a DQ cone dipped in chocolate)

But I think the best part is when I arrive to pick them up. Both these girls shrieked, yelled and giggled with delight. It melts my heart.

So for those of you who are out of state, know that when I see you and your children next I will be making up for lost time; just accept it and know that I will be taking my nieces and nephews out on a date.

Dear SLC 2012 Half Marathon,

2011-05-01T22:18:00.001-07:00

I look forward to improving my time and finishing with my iPod functioning the entire race.

Bring it.

Dear Nerd Alert,

2011-04-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

Can. Not. Wait.

Dear Crunch Time,

2011-04-10T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'm counting down the days on ONE HAND until I run 13 miles...resulting in lots of mixed emotions.

But I'm mostly excited.
And petrified.
But mostly excited.

Dear Long Time Coming,

2011-03-17T04:08:00.000-07:00

I am in the UK...and might never return.

Can't wait to do all that Noelle has planned.
She's the best.

Here's to having the time of my life.

God save the Queen.

Dear 8 miles,

2011-02-26T16:03:00.000-08:00

I've never run that far before ever.

Here's to doing new things every day.

Next long run = 9 miles.

Dear Self Indulgence,

2011-01-05T21:32:00.000-08:00

I don't give in to you...practically ever.

But this time...it's really hard to put up a fight...

Dear 2011 SLC Marathon,

2011-01-05T20:09:00.000-08:00

I'm back...but this time not for the 3.14 miler...but the 13.1 miler.
With my sisters running beside me, I'm pretty sure we'll take first, second and third place.

Watch out.

Oh and your price plus processing fee is ridiculous.
People who procrastinate shouldn't have to pay more $.
That's absurd.

Dear Haagen-Dazs,

2010-11-28T18:51:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season.

Thank you for creating an ice cream that captures, perfectly, what Christmas would taste like...if Christmas were a flavor:

White chocolate ice cream + Peppermint pieces + Peppermint bark pieces = Christmas

Dear Australia,

2010-11-09T23:04:00.000-08:00

Just one more reason why I should move down unda.

As if the $5,000 cash for every child I have in the country wasn't reason enough...oh and of course the koalas...and the sun...and the beaches.

Dear Single Ladies,

2010-11-05T17:05:00.000-07:00

Let's give it up for the Obama Administration and the Onion.

They've given us hope...or at least something to giggle at.

Dear Europe,

2010-11-03T20:38:00.000-07:00

I'm on my way back! It's been way too long.

LAX to Heathrow - March 17
Heathrow to LAX - March 28

Expect a little time in the city of Love as well.
Oh Paris, how I've missed you!

Dear former life,

2010-10-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

I miss you.

Especially when I read little comics about the 'fun' of advertising....or anything design related...or anything resulting from client feedback. So really...it's my past and current life...

source: http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2010/10/26/a-thousand-words-is-worth-a-picture-the-importance-of-justifying-your-designs/

Dear WA,

2010-10-14T22:16:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Valerie.
And I'm a workaholic.

(in unison) Hi Valerie....

Dear Moses + the Red Sea,

2010-09-21T22:56:00.000-07:00

Ready for a pun?
Oh ye of little faith!

Looks like science is trying to steal all the glory on this one:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-11383620

Dear ROI,

2010-09-18T22:26:00.000-07:00

(that's return on investment)

A new dress.
New shoes.
Manicure.
Styled hair.
Make up.
In a completely humble way, I looked good.
Add a handsome "friend".

You get a really fun night.
REALLY fun night.

Even though another person wore the same dress as me.
That didn't ruin it.

A lot of investment.
A lot of return.

Dear "friend" requests on Facebook,

2010-08-06T15:13:00.001-07:00

I refuse to feel bad about ignoring you.
I didn't know you in high school and know even less about you now.
I most certainly will not have a change in heart 8 years after graduating.

Dear work,

2010-07-20T17:16:00.001-07:00

Boo.

Dear This is It,

2010-06-29T17:17:00.000-07:00

....and no, I don't mean Michael Jackson.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
So.
Much.
Better.
Than the King of Pop.

Dear RIP,

2010-06-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

To the squirrel who is now roadkill on Sunnyside Ave.
Thanks to me.

I'm so sorry little guy (or maybe girl).
I'm a murderer.

Not a great way to start a Friday.

Dear Long Time Coming,

2010-06-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

It only took 8 years of living in Utah to get my first speeding ticket.

Dear Conflict of Emotion,

2010-06-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

I don't know whether I should be afraid/annoyed or nostalgic/secretly excited this is coming back to theaters.

http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/paramount/greasesingalong/

I mean come on, as if anyone needs lyrics on the bottom of a giant screen to bust out Summer Lovin'.

Dear Durfee Family,

2010-06-01T23:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks for a great Memorial Day Weekend. You all are too cute for words.

Here's Keegan showing off his dance moves - obviously learned on the streets.

Here's Keegan and Camden proving just how much fun it is to be a kid - running through the sprinklers - at my bidding of course.

AJ, the brother-in-law is destined for sainthood.This 'lil guy (man of the house #4) is destined to break-slash-melt hearts everywhere.This aunt didn't want to leave after the weekend.

Dear Anthropologie.com,

2010-06-01T12:14:00.000-07:00

Signing up for your emails and your catalog was probably a bad idea in my attempt to be a better budget spender.

Nothing about your clothes says budget.

Dear life balance,

2010-04-24T02:42:00.001-07:00

I miss having you.

Dear Easter,

2010-04-04T10:17:00.001-07:00

Why I like you:

I didn't have to work
I was able to sleep in
candy, candy and more candy
General Conference
food, food and more food

and most importantly...He, the Savior Jesus Christ, is Risen!

Dear Light at the end of the Tunnel,

2010-03-25T07:38:00.001-07:00

I was just given the news I get to work Easter weekend.

Rather than getting closer to you each day, you are moving further and further away.

Maybe one day I'll reach you.
Next year?

Dear 26,

2010-03-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

Who knew that...

In mathematics, Pierre de Fermat proved you are the only single number between a square (

25 = 5 2

) and a cube (

27 = 3 3

)...or that...in science, you are the atomic number of iron (actually I did know this)...or that...in the armed forces, you are the age at which males can no longer be drafted in the United States.

So, I guess this means all signs point to me a having a great year.

Please be good to me.

25 was awesome.

Random facts courtesy of wikipedia

Dear Desperation,

2010-03-22T15:14:00.001-07:00

I've reached you. I gave in and paid 99cents to have unlimited listening the rest of the month on Pandora.

40 hours of free listening doesn't last long when I work 12-14 hour work days.

Dear eye candy,

2010-03-22T12:14:00.000-07:00

Not having you around, is making it really hard to want to do things.

Dear Alice in Wonderland,

2010-03-07T09:42:00.000-08:00

For those who haven't decided whether or not to see you, let me give my 4 cents:

Obviously, you're nothing like the original animated version, but you're more like the book (from what I've been told since I haven't read it)
Loved the look of the film (go figure, Tim Burton is great)
Helena Bonham Carter gets my vote for favorite actor in the movie
The 3D didn't really do much for me...

Even if you aren't excited to go, give it a shot, maybe not in 3D, but why miss the chance of seeing a movie that isn't like all the others and for which people dress up? I saw Alices and Mad Hatters - - I was hoping for someone in a Cheshire cat outfit. No dice.

Dear Billy and Elton,

2010-02-20T20:58:00.000-08:00

(Joel and John that is...)

Your concert was fun. Really fun. More fun than I thought.

Thank you Noelle for letting me be your date (Matt - thanks for going out of town so I could be your wife's date).

Dear you know who you are,

2010-02-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

I hope you enjoyed your little spending spree on my behalf. Thanks to email notifications, the suspicious activity on my bank account didn't go unnoticed. Nice try.

As if I shop regularly at hottopic.com and other unknown "specialty retail" stores!

It's true what Dwight sad, "Identify theft is no joke Jim. Millions of families suffer every year!"

Dear Jets,

2010-01-25T17:04:00.001-08:00

And no, I don't mean the professional football team who lost to the Colts...or the finger snapping Shark fighting caucasians in West Side Story...or even Elton's catchy and often unknown lyrics of the song first featured on Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.

I mean the great 80's pop band:

From a quick poll of close friends and coworkers, apparently my family was one of few families who owned the groups albums on cassette. And I'll even stake a claim to fame and say one of the former band members married the sister of my childhood friend.

Thank goodness for great 80's music. And by great, I mean nostalgic.
I needed this today.

Dear what the,

2010-01-11T22:09:00.001-08:00

http://www.apple.com/trailers/sony_pictures/karatekid/

Another classic...being remade...into a modern retelling.
But, it won't compare.
It can't.

Dear Intellect,

2010-01-10T23:58:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I insulted you by seeing the movie Leap Year.

The romantic comedy is a dying genre and this one should have been laid to rest well before production began. The most entertaining part was hearing/seeing the reaction of the crowd at the 12noon matinee. It was as if they had never seen a chick flick before...I on the other hand know it's bad when I predict 80% of the movie - including exact delivery of lines.

Maybe that proves I've seen one too many chick flicks...

Blast me for getting suckered in all because of an attractive male lead (Matthew Goode).

But I hope Intellect, you enjoyed the attempt to save you by seeing Young Victoria. It provided a take on actual historical events, a female lead (Emily Blunt) who didn't make me embarrassed on behalf of my gender and another handsome male lead (Rupert Friend).

Maybe this proves I'm just a sucker for a period piece...or good-looking British men.

Dear Citrus Fruit,

2010-01-04T23:48:00.001-08:00

I miss being able to pick you off the trees in our backyard in CA.
I've never enjoyed buying oranges and lemons in the grocery store.
They can't compare.

Dear Lessons Learned,

2009-12-29T08:22:00.001-08:00

The snowboarding season has begun and after my first day on the mountain at Snowbird, I learned the following:

I didn't start off better than where I ended last season. I didn't magically acquire new skills through sheer will.
In addition to the helmet I bought, I should have purchased knee pads. They took a beating.
Thank goodness for the iPod. Never leave home without it.
Music makes me brave.
I still tend to favor heel-side.
I love the mountain.

Dear Utah Humane Society Animal Shelter,

2009-11-19T16:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks for having this guy available for adoption. His name is Britain. An 11-month-0ld male black labrador/retreiver.

He fits right at home and loves everyone. He's trained and well behaved and enjoys a good belly rub. He's melted all of our hearts in the house...and slightly warming Camille's.

Dear Snowbird,

2009-11-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the invite, but I have to work.
Maybe next week.

Dear everyone in CA,

2009-10-27T08:19:00.001-07:00

The snow has begun to fall in Utah. I wouldn't mind being at the beach right now.

Dear Life,

2009-10-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

I'm only 25 and this pretty much sums up how events have been unfolding as of late.

Dear Gossip Girl,

2009-10-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

I've never been ashamed to say I'm an avid watcher.
Until now.

Hilary Duff?
Tyra Banks?

It's embarrassing really.

But it's a labor of love, so I'll continue watching.
Just know it is causing me a lot of discomfort.

Dear 10 Days to Go,

2009-10-06T21:33:00.001-07:00

I. Can't. Wait. To. See. Where the Wild Things Are.
Can't.
Wait.

In other news -

Today I attempted to kill a bee (which I'm pretty sure was a yellow jacket) and only upset it more and then trapped it in my lunch container. Take that.

I sat in a meeting for 5 hours. And somehow remained sane.

Went to the gym and burned some calories.

Had some great homemade baked goods - cookies and bread.

Dear Advertising,

2009-08-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is why you were my major. Who wouldn't want to be a part of something this cool?

http://www.artandcopyfilm.com/

Is it foolish of me to want to influence the ad biz like these great creative minds?

Maybe.

Maybe not.

Dear (500) Days of Summer,

2009-08-02T21:24:00.000-07:00

I saw you.
I loved you.
I will be seeing you again...
The story is bittersweet but in a good way.

Great soundtrack.
Great actors.
Great clothes.

It's official that I'm in love with Joseph Gordon-Levitt. My how far he's come since 10 Things I Hate About You. And Zooey Deschanel...who wouldn't want to be you? U R A Q T.

Dear Mars Candy Pt2,

2009-07-17T18:39:00.000-07:00

Success!
Coconut M&Ms are nothing short of delicious.

Thank you dear Katie White for giving me my highlight of the day!

Dear Mars Candy,

2009-07-05T02:06:00.000-07:00

I thought it couldn't get better than Peanut Butter M&M's. How I misjudged you! COCONUT M&M's! Life (potentially) could get a WHOLE lot better.

The sad thing is, I haven't been able to find them anywhere except for Sam's Club. Even though I love bulk items, I can't bring myself to buy a case of 48 packs of Coconut M&M's unless I'm sure I will want to eat every single pack in less than 24 hours.

I just need to find them sold individually.
Anywhere.
Please help me find one.

image courtesy of: http://www.mms.com/us/about/products/coconutmms/

Dear Fireworks,

2009-07-05T02:05:00.000-07:00

I love you.

Oh, and I love you too America.

Dear Little Women,

2009-07-02T23:22:00.001-07:00

The following are lessons learned after I saw the movie:

the word 'awful' is inappropriate to say as it is considered to be slang
today, the word 'ninny pinny' isn't used NEARLY as often as it should
i hope to never date a person my friends would describe as 'dull as powder'
cutting one's hair off is equivalent to social suicide
although my gut reaction is to not like jo for turning down laurie's insanely perfect marriage proposal, the fact that she falls for mr. baehr who publishes her novel makes me overlook her past mistake
swine flu is just as trendy today as scarlet fever was back then

Dear Sapa Bar and Grill,

2009-06-24T22:58:00.000-07:00

The speed dating was tolerable but the food was INCREDIBLE.

I got more than enough to eat. Who knew sushi could be so good? Oh wait, I did.

Open to the public July 13 - grand opening is July 9 w/ free food - come one, come all. You won't be disappointed.

www.sapabarandgrill.com

Dear sad but true,

2009-06-19T00:03:00.001-07:00

Needless to say, I'm looking forward to Bear Lake this weekend.

Dear tender mercies,

2009-06-11T22:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you for friends who search in the grass, at night, on their knees, with their headlamp for a lost necklace.

Thank you for friends who play fetch with the dog while I continue to search for the lost necklace.

Thank you for a sister who found the necklace on the edge of the air conditioning unit and took time to de-tangle the chain.

It's the little things that make the difference.

Dear vacation,

2009-06-06T14:56:00.001-07:00

You are wonderful.
Completely rejuvenating.

I am looking into the possibility of making you a career...but then I guess that kind of defeats your purpose if it is work. But man, what a day job that would be.

Walk in the Blue Mountains, Australia - shout out to Fern Gully, the Last Rainforest. "Can't you feel it's pain?" referencing the hurt we cause trees by our need to write our names in their bark.

Nothing makes me happier than the beach. Maroubra Beach outside of Sydney.

When asked, 'What animal would you want to be if you had the choice?' I decided a tiger...even though I think I look like a koala.

See the resemblance?

My view in Samoa for a week. Not too bad.

I love coconuts. True happiness.

Samoan fire dancers.
Hot in more ways than one.

Dear When in Rome,

2009-06-05T22:42:00.000-07:00

(...and by Rome, I mean Australia + Samoa...)

In Sydney, I saw a show at the Opera House. Yes, THE Sydney Opera House.

In Brisbane I fed kangaroos. I also attempted to kiss one as well, but he would have nothing to do with me...strangely paralleling my dating life...

I experienced 24 hours non-stop rain...and we're not talking a sprinkling, we're talking torrential downpours that closed roads, shut down schools, businesses, you name it. It was nuts.

I saw my best friend get married and loved every minute!

In Samoa, I ate fresh papaya, coconut, oranges, bananas and some other fruits I don't know the names for.

I slept in a hut 50 ft from the beach.

Every day I went to the beach.
Every day I swam.
Every day I napped.
Every day I was bit by at least 10 mosquitoes.

And last but not least...

I received 2 marriage proposals.
I was asked out by 3 Samoan men.

Pictures forthcoming.

Dear Law of Accumulation,

2009-05-12T22:36:00.001-07:00

I am choosing to believe that if I run nine 5Ks, it is the same as running a marathon.

3 down, 6 to go.

Dear Bias,

2009-05-05T18:11:00.001-07:00

I feel completely justified in having you when it concerns any of those pictured below:

Thank goodness for nieces and nephews.

Dear Victoria's Secret,

2009-04-30T17:39:00.000-07:00

The fact that I can't return my online purchase to your physical store location makes absolutely no sense.

Especially for a company that patents their bras with built-in anti-gravity technology. I would think you'd be able to have a full-coverage return policy.

Pun intended.

Dear Samoa,

2009-04-27T21:25:00.000-07:00

Plan on having me attend the temple while I'm out your way - probably not the normal tourist destination - but at least I know there won't be long lines of any kind.

I'm very excited.

Dear Wolverine,

2009-04-22T23:03:00.000-07:00

If being excited for the movie premier on May first is wrong...then I don't want to be right.

http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/wolverine/medium3.html

Dear SLC 5K,

2009-04-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

I'm glad I finished you!
However, I would have preferred to win $5K.

Dear Harry Potter,

2009-04-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

You are one more reason I can't wait for summer to arrive.
Watch the latest trailer HERE.

Dear Miracle of the Day,

2009-04-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

The package I sent to the wrong address was safely retrieved by my wonderful mother.

Which reminds me...

Dear Office of Consumer Postal Affairs,
Please disregard my voicemails.

Dear Friends and Family,

2009-04-13T12:43:00.000-07:00

If you send me one of these ecards, it will most likely be a highlight of the day:

http://someecards.com/

Three cheers for clever electronic greetings.

Hip hip...hooray!
Hip hip...horray!
Hip hip...horray!

Dear Life,

2009-04-05T14:50:00.001-07:00

Despite my occasional grumpy days and my complaining, I do like you...a lot.

Dear April Snow,

2009-04-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

You've made road conditions too hazardous for my lil hatchback.

How am I supposed to enjoy the 31" Snowbird has received in the past 24 hours?

Dear Winter,

2009-03-29T21:22:00.001-07:00

So you decided to stick around a little longer...I think I will survive...because as much as I love Spring, I'm glad I was able to get some time on the mountain and experience this...

Okay, so no, this isn't a picture of me...but it best represents what I did on Saturday and what the weather conditions were like. Blue skies, sun, practically NOBODY on the mountain and soft soft snow. Sadly, I have no goggle tan.

Thanks L for taking it easy with me.

Dear Where the Wild Things Are...movie...

2009-03-25T23:10:00.001-07:00

This could go two ways:

Really well
Really poorly

I hope for option 1 since it's one of my favorite books...http://wherethewildthingsare.warnerbros.com/

Dear turning quarter of a century,

2009-03-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

You rocked the casbah.

Thanks to everyone who made it an incredibly memorable day (emails, ecards, FB posts, phone calls, text messages, gifts, blog posts, waffles for breakfast, car decorating, a fryless Mighty Kids meal, blue plate for dinner, gluten free apple pie, movies, music, homemade Rancho market gift card, ice cream = lots of love).

I have a feeling 25 will be a very very good year.

Dear Samoa,

2009-03-02T12:40:00.000-08:00

I can you hear your white beaches, palm trees and turquoise blue water calling. Thanks Air New Zealand for having an offer I couldn't possibly refuse...anyone else want to come along for the ride? May 15-June 1 (1 week in Australia + 9 days in Samoa).

*Note: to all my friends and family members who are not yet married, I don't mind if you decide to get married in an area where one (me) could easily extend their trip post-wedding to a tropical destination. Thank you Leah for being so considerate.

Dear Undergrad Education,

2009-02-20T23:14:00.000-08:00

For the first time, in a really long time, I missed you.

I happened to come across the final script for my advertising capstone group project and I got the butterfly feeling in my stomach as I remembered all the long days, nights and the seconds leading up to the presentation.

How the group PWN just came together and rocked it. Our thumb bands, our homemade t-shirts (which I still wear), our posters, our kick A books, our TV spot...our trip that we won, but never went on.

THAT was a lot of a fun (not the trip part...everything before that).
Not that I would want to do it all over again, but still, I had fun.

Dear Road Conditions

2009-02-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

(for Little Cottonwood Canyon),

I sadly won't be going to the Bird today because "The canyon road is currently restricted to vehicles with 4WD, AWD, or chains." I have none of those things.

Dang it.
Dang it.
Dang it.

Dear 60-day Review,

2009-02-11T22:22:00.000-08:00

Remember when I forgot about you? So I showed up at work at 8am, business as usual until my supervisor asked if everything was ok. Yeah, I replied, Why do you ask? She looks at me with a furrowed brow. Your performance review was at 7:30. We can meet whenever you're ready, in a super nice but I knew was a little confused and maybe a little miffed as to why and HOW someone could possibly forget about their performance review (I'm still learning to cope with my life unattached to the blackberry).

I stammered a little, but firmly responded with I'm ready right now - of course, *#&^, @#$*, @!@# - was my mental response.

Great way to start the day.
Great way.

Dear RTA,

2009-02-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

RTA (v.) - reply to all; a function in email that allows you to reply to all parties that sent and received an email. Sometimes used inappropriately causing an excess of non-relevant replies to flood one's Inbox. Very annoying. Very amusing.

For example - this is the original email I received at work:

Subject: Please stop feeding the cats

FYI…
The County Animal Services has requested that we ask our employees to stop feeding the feral cats that are hanging around the campus. There is an ordinance prohibiting feeding cats without licensing them, apparently feeding them is claiming some sort of ownership, so please refrain from feeding these feral cats or catch them and take them home.

Human Resources

As if the original notice from HR wasn't weird enough...this was the BIZARRE RTA that followed MINUTES after...

This RTA resulted in a chain of back and forth, off-line email conversations among my coworkers and I, trying to figure out who would do this sort of thing. I have never met the guy who sent the email, but he will always be known as the cat Cheezburger guy who inappropriately RTAs.

Dear Super Bowl,

2009-02-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

WHICH ONE OF THESE IS NOT LIKE THE OTHER?

It's true, before tonight's game I thought the Steelers were playing the St. Louis Cardinals (option #3...with the cardinal perched on the baseball bat). Sports fans everywhere - you have my permission to collectively roll your eyes, shake your head and sigh in disappointment.

BUT REALLY - just for kicks - think how much fun that game would be if it were to happen...picture this, a Steelers linebacker bolting from home plate in an attempt to tackle the Cardinals pitcher while he stood on the mound, just getting ready to throw a curve ball. Or have the QB throw a pass to home only to have the batter swing at the pig skin with his Louisville Slugger and knock it out of the park.

I find it to be an amusing image - but then again I could have just committed some serious sports blasphemy crossing these 2 very different American sports.

I'll be the first to admit, I'm not a sports fanatic nor am I even remotely concerned about what's going on during the game (despite my past as a high school cheerleader). I will however admit that I liked a few ads. I've heard it said the ads are the best part of the Super Bowl - I say that's true, but on an ad by ad basis. Some are good. Some are awful.

GOOD

#1 - Freak outs in the car relating to work frustration?
I have no idea what they are talking about...

#2 - "...what are you going to do, turn off your TV and computer?? hahahahaha..."

AWFUL - these ones I refuse to post in an effort to lessen the amount of garbage on the internet - but let's just say some of them had to do with Go-Daddy, E*Trade and Doritos. Sex unfortunately still seems to sell (boo), talking babies are not funny and eating chips to blast a female's outfit from her body? yeah, that guy deserved getting hit by a bus.

Oh and another non-football Super Bowl highlight? When Bruce Springsteen ran into the camera, crotch first. Celebrities! They're just like us!!

Dear Bed Time,

2009-01-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

Even though I don't get MLK day off, I ignored you last night and stayed up way too late. Mostly because friends were hanging out and we eventually spent hours looking up SNL skits - this one had me crying.

Thank you Jill.
Thank you Brad.
Thank you Joey.

Dear Snowbird,

2009-01-19T01:31:00.001-08:00

The mountain and I were in love on Saturday. Slowly but surely I'm getting the hang of toe side.

And...remember when I somehow ended up doing moguls? Yeah, that wasn't the plan.

Five more days til the weekend.
I'm officially one of those people who would...rather be snowboarding.

Noelle - I'll be ready for your trip in February. I promise you won't be embarrassed to ski with me. Just no double blacks ok?

Cheryl and Curtis taking a lift to the top. We practically had the mountain to ourselves in the morning.

Cheryl and I taking a lift to the top. Cheryl looked like a pro in her new jacket. She happily pulled me along at one point (Cheryl skies) with her pole as I was stuck, at a standstill on a catwalk. My normal hop hop move wasn't getting me anywhere, nor was my primate push (picture what an ape would like walking, hands on the ground pushing along with the feet). Without Cheryl I would have had to unstrap - which I hate doing - it's one of the downsides of snowboarding: not enough speed/skill + a slight incline = no forward movement.

I am happy as a snow bum even with a broken binding, a paper clip zipper jacket and gloves tearing at the seams. It all makes me sound a lot more hard core than I am. The fact of the matter is, it's what I get for getting cheap stuff on sale. Boo.

Dear Dream Job,

2009-01-16T22:58:00.001-08:00

An Account Planner for Facebook...in the Paris office.

And we're not talking Paris, Texas people.

What not apply?
I can't think of a single reason.

Dear Denny,

2009-01-15T22:44:00.001-08:00

Just die. Again. Or whatever it's called when the ghost of one's former self leaves...cross over? Yeah, that's it - just cross over already. Seriously.

Dear WWYD,

2008-12-29T20:02:00.000-08:00

...IF...you had the opportunity to go work in a foreign country (the UK or France) as an au pair (a nanny)?

So maybe I filled out a profile with an online service that matches families with au pairs.
So maybe I checked my email and noticed 7 responses re: my profile. Seven parents all interested in having me watch their kids (with incredibly cute names - Henry, Wendy, Jack, Lillie, to name a few).
So maybe I'm interested.
Did I just start a new job? Yes.
Has it always been a dream of mine to live and work in the UK and France...yes.
Am I crazy to even consider this? Maybe.

Or maybe I'm having a quarter-life crisis.

Dear Valerie Needs New Snow Tires Fund,

2008-12-22T22:05:00.001-08:00

Short of standing outside grocery stores ringing a bell, I think baking cookies will be the best idea to try and collect some monies to help pay for the insanely expensive pieces of rubber that prevent my car from slipping and sliding on the road.

Or maybe I could sell an organ on the internet.
I don't need BOTH kidneys...or my gall bladder for that matter.

Dear Remember When,

2008-12-18T00:47:00.000-08:00

Disney made the movie Escape to Witch Mountain about two orphan kids not from this planet, who realize they have "special" powers and become the target of a scheezy millionaire who wants to exploit them? A widower helps the children escape to their space ship in the depths of Witch Mountain while the children help the widower recover from the loss of his wife...aww...nothing like a classic 1975 Disney movie. Below is a trip down memory lane for those who are nostalgic.

...well...remember when Disney decided to remake it for the new generation and call it Race to Witch Mountain where (according to IMDB) "A UFO expert enlists the help of a cabbie to protect two siblings with paranormal powers from the clutches of an organization that wants to use the kids for their nefarious plans."

Gag me.
Especially when the cabbie is none other than Dwayne Johnson aka the Rock.

Props to Disney for trying to make $.
Boo to Disney for rehashing the same material - nothing will beat the 1975 version - nothing.

Dear Snowbird Resort,

2008-12-06T13:34:00.001-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite things:

You
Ski Laura
Ski Cheryl
Snowboard Joey
Snowboard Val
Falling off the chair lift
Having a 12-year-old boy inform me he recognized me by my board
Going down the mountain every time heel side only

Cheryl, Joey and I (all pictured above) survived our first 1/2 day on the mountain of the season and had a rip roarin time. I can't wait for next week.

Dear Coworker,

2008-12-02T01:07:00.001-08:00

Your eye contact might be considered attractive if I didn't find it creepy. It gives me the heeby geebies.

PS - Despite what you may believe, 'Figment' is not an actual Disney character.

Dear Ruth's Diner,

2008-11-24T11:25:00.001-08:00

Your Quiche Lorraine was delicious.

I can't wait to try something off the lunch and dinner menu.
There will be more visits.

Dear Coldplay,

2008-11-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

You were incredible...and even that doesn't do your performance justice.

Hopefully this tour will be available on DVD.
I want to be able to relive every second.

**Yes, for you art history buffs, Coldplay used Eugène Delacroix 's painting of Liberty Leading the People for their album artwork. For the record, this painting in person, is unreal - if you don't believe me, buy a ticket to Paris and visit the Louvre. I'd be happy to tag along.

Dear Snowbird Resort,

2008-11-23T17:55:00.001-08:00

I purchased a season pass and now there are rumors that you may close until the snow returns.

I don't know how I feel about this.

Normally I would LOVE the fact that there has been a significant lack of snow in the area, but now with all my gear, I am itching to get on the mountain.

For the first time EVER in my life, I am praying for snow. I guess Hell has frozen over.

Dear TA,

2008-11-20T23:04:00.000-08:00

It was a great 19 months.
A great cowboy day with a mechanical bull ride.
A great free soda day...every day.
A great 2 seasons of the TA Cocoa Order.
A great attempt at the Biggest Loser.
A great 2 Halloween parties - and 2 great costume contest wins.
A great lunch at the Crown Burger in Clearfield.
A great time black berrying.
A great time making life-long friends.
A great memory of a coworker scratching a client's car...a great brand new car.
A great lunch at the Red Robin in Layton.
A great 'I Love You' email sent as a 'Reply To All.'
A great time of Costco pizza lunches.
A great blind date for the company summer party at Lagoon.
A great lunch at the Thai restaurant in Layton.
A great time of Dictionary.com's Word of the Day emails.
A great "cooking class."
A great time at FPU.
A great trip or two to the Top Stop.
A great race in the parking lot where Brett fell...bad.
A GREAT SEASON AT LAGOON.
A great time of group skyping.
A great carpool.
A great time at the park eating McDonalds' chicken nuggets.
A great time laughing.
A great Hill Billy Olympics.
A great April Fool's prank involving a missing basketball hoop.
A great hour of working from my car with great wireless.
A great trip to the Centerville DI.
A great time wearing jeans every day, rain/snow boots in the winter, hats and hoodies.
A great time problem solving.
A great time of living in the city and a great time working in the country.
A great time on camping trips with friends first, coworkers second.
A great memory of Cinco de Mayo 2008.
A great time of classic pages.
A great time at the Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas with friends first, coworkers second.
A great kids club.
A great time work flowing.
A great time of running around corners and down the halls.
A great time of Leap Day activities.
A great time account coordinating and managing.

For now, I'll remember the great.
But eventually, I'll enjoy having a life outside of work unattached to the blackberry. So great.

Sincerely,
Your former Workflow Manager, Various/Legacy Account Manger, Pinch Hitter and Problem Solver

Dear Monday Morning,

2008-11-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

You always come a little too soon. Just 30 more minutes of sleep please?

Sincerely,
A fan of the snooze button and sleeping in