Tale from the Cridds

Can it!

2012-01-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

A few months ago I checked out the cannery in our area. I was given a tour of the facility and a demonstration of how to use the canners they have and allow people to borrow. It was a great information-gathering trip for me. We reserved a canner for this weekend and now share our experience.

We arrived at the Storehouse and got lots of help to complete our order. I knew the general things we would need, but figuring how many cans to buy for how many pounds of wheat and oats, etc took a little time to figure out. With the order figured out, we loaded up all the supplies with the help of two senior missionaries and filled up the truck. We could have crammed a lot more into the truck, but didn't want to bite off more than we could chew for our first experience.

At home, we unloaded the truck and got to work.

First we needed to secure the canning machine to a steady table. We have no such article of furniture, but were able to manage with our door-on-top-of-two-file-cabinets computer table.

Then we filled the cans. Jefferson did this, as it was the heavy lifting part. I made sure the cans had roughly the same amount of wheat in them.

The final preparation was to add an oxygen absorber and place on the lid. Evidently the longer the oxygen absorbers are exposed to air the less effective they become. I'm glad the people at the cannery told us that, because we may have not been so strategic at this point in the process otherwise.

The canning machine was very simple to operate once I started holding the table top steady.

Last was placing the labels and putting the cans in boxes. We completed a total of 47 cans, mostly hard red wheat and some oats. Even though these cans should last 30 years, we intend to use them long before that. We eat oatmeal for breakfast a lot and grind wheat into flour for baking.

It was a bit of work, but truly didn't take much more than 2 hours once we got home. And we were complete novices. We feel very satisfied with our work, it was fun to do together on a cloudy January Saturday. And while we may not rush out to do it again next week (we have a good supply now), we learned a lot and are so glad to have this Storehouse and canning equipment available to us.

Happiness and Cheer

2011-12-01T19:41:00.000-08:00

December is now upon us, and we are thrilled to announce the latest installment of Criddle Christmas music!:

Download it now!

With four brand new songs to brighten your holiday season:

Dance of the Flutes

Christmas Time is Here

Carol of the Bells

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Enjoy!

and be sure to catch up on all the previous releases:
Visions of Sugar Plums (2010)
Amid the Cold of Winter (2009)
Happy Golden Days (2008)

Ending the Month of Thanksgiving: Days 21-30

2011-11-28T17:48:00.000-08:00

Day 21-My mom-This is another post that I think will be hard to do the person justice. I have lots of great memories as a kid that are surrounding my mom-lots of little things she would say and do have made their way into my life. She is a strong woman, hardly ever gets sick (I remember as a kid that it would be so weird when she was sick and not up doing stuff. She can't get sick, she's Mom). And in the past few weeks, she has been going non-stop traveling to visit family, working at the office, and doing her church duties, as well as many other things I'm not aware of, I'm sure. She is generous, understanding and loving. Even though we live far away from each other, she still helps me a lot with things going on in my life. I love her and hope she knows how much she means to me.

Day 22- Eternal Families. Two women in my family have passed away recently. Although neither of these deaths was a huge surprise, it is always sad to know you time on earth with some one is over. Knowing that people who die still exist and that families can be together eternally is comforting.
I also want to give a shout out others in my eternal family. My dad has been a great counselor to me over they years about many subjects and I value his input. My brothers are great guys each with a great wife. Lastly, my in-laws are great too. I've enjoyed getting to know them over the years.

Day 23-My youngest Sister- She turned the big 1-8 on the 23rd. She is a bomb photographer, has a great sense of humor and is a great friend to lots of people. She is self-motivated and works hard at everything she does. I hope she knows how valued she is. She is a good example to me of how have a sense of humor even when you tons of stuff to do. (I have a tendency to stress about things)

Day 24-working on family projects-We spent all weekend working on the Christmas Music Album and other projects. It was great spending so much time together working on the same projects. I observed that compared to some of the first projects we did together we seem to work better together now.

Day 25- Having a roof over our heads. I know our home isn't fancy or big, but it is enough space for us and keeps us warm and dry.

Day 26- Great summer adventures-We had some great trips this summer. The best was our combined trip to Mt. Rainier and then climbing Mt. St. Helens. It helps us get through the winter knowing that summers are so great!

Day 27- Successful first attempts-Cheesecake and Dutch apple pie. The cheesecake isn't perfect but it is quite good. (and of course we are thankful for left overs of successful first attempts)

Day 28- The Right to Bear Arms- We invested in our first gun recently. We took it to the shooting range. We love it.

Day 29- Health-this is something I don't appreciate enough until it's been compromised. I was sick last week, just with a slight cough. I'm so glad that is behind me (knock on wood). One new thing I did to get rid of my cold faster this time: at the recommendation of two friends from church I got a neti pot. I was pretty weirded out by it at first, but now I've got the hang of it. It seems to help a lot, because usually my colds linger for 2-3 weeks and this one was only a week.

Day 30- Agency-I'm glad to be able to make choices. It can be difficult sometimes to accept reality, but learning to make responsible and wise choices brings peace and happiness. I can't have it all or do it all, so I have to choose what is most important to me. I try to make choices that make sense to me and are simple. I am not always right, but am certainly learning and becoming better at admitting I'm wrong and asking for help.

Month of Thanksgiving day 20

2011-11-23T12:44:00.000-08:00

Fresh produce- bananas, carrots, potatoes, oranges, spinach, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, avocado, peppers, onions, cabbage. And at this time of year, apples pears and squash. 'Nuf said.

Month of Thanksgiving day 19

2011-11-23T12:41:00.000-08:00

Pretty leaves-By now most of the colorful leaves are down, but I have to say that I really enjoyed the fall colors this year. I was also glad that lots of October and the beginning of November were not too drizzly and were actually pretty sunny. Every year I think it would be neat to make something decoraty out of the pretty fallen leaves, but I never get around to it. Has anyone made anything out of leaves before (garland/wreath)? How did it go?

Month of Thanksgiving day 18

2011-11-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sleep-When I first started getting sick last week, I came home from work and crashed. That really helped me to get a little better faster. Even if I'm not sick, I love sleeping soundly after a full day and waking up refreshed. On days like today I think the animals have the right idea about hibernating.

Month of Thanksgiving day 17

2011-11-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

King County Library System-We have an awesome library system here in King County. We came across our first local library a day or two after we moved here, signed up for library cards and have been hooked ever since. We get 99.9% of our books and movies from here, and the selection is pretty great. I've been surprised to see that they have some LDS books as well as sheet music. It's nice to be able to reserve things online and pick them up where we want. Also, when things are overdue the fine is only $.10 per day. Not bad! For me personally the library has been a great asset, because I wasn't much of a reader before we moved here. Thanks to our library I have become much more cultured.

Month of Thanksgiving Day 16

2011-11-16T19:55:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for exercise. It is good for me in so many ways, even though right now I don't do as much or as hard core as I used to. Some of my favorite ways to exercise are running and hiking, of course. I also like doing yoga to relax and stretch. (I tried a hot yoga class last winter and really liked it, especially the super hot room). Biking is fun, though I don't usually feel like I get the same workout from it as I do from running. Lifting weights can be fun too, though I admit I am not very disiplined to to it consistently. Plus we don't have much in the way of free weights at home. I wish I was better at swimming, because I think it looks like fun.

Currently, my main form of exercise is walking. I started being more diligent with walking just last week and after only 4-5 times walking up the biggest hill near our house, I could tell that it was getting easier. That is good to feel. Also, I have found that walking help ease aches that I expect will become worse in the next few months. I try to keep from pushing myself too hard by breathing in for 4 counts/steps and breathing out for 4 steps. If I have to breath faster than that I think am working too hard for my delicate condition.

What are some ways you like to exercise? To you prefer to work out alone or with people? What kinds of classes to you like?

Month of Thanksgiving day 15

2011-11-15T17:13:00.000-08:00

Employable education--I think it is important to consider the employ-ability of the degree/education people work for. I didn't always think that way. When I started college I didn't really care too much about how a certain field would pay or if there would be jobs available. Which is part of the reason I started my college experience as a music education major. (I changed my major for a number of reasons, none of which was because of the low pay a music teacher could expect to earn).

But things have changed a lot in the last 8-10 years, in myself and in the job market. Which is why I am grateful that as soon as I graduated high school, my dad trained me to be a dental assistant. This gave me skills that I used once we moved to Washington and eventually led me to complete Dental Hygiene school. I love what I do as a hygienist, but don't get me wrong, teeth and work are not my meaning in life. It is nice to have a job that I can enjoy when I'm at work and then I can come home and pursue other interests.

Month of Thanksgiving day 14

2011-11-14T16:38:00.001-08:00

Husband-I'm a little hesitant to write about how great my husband is for two reasons. One, I do not want to make any readers gag and, two, I don't feel like a little post could quite do justice. I'll write it anyway though since I am so thankful for him everyday. He does all the usual man/husband stuff: bring home the bacon, read the news, and fix computer problems. But he also initiates interesting conversation and debate in our home. He does push-ups every morning to keep himself looking good. He prepares the food for our lunches the night before. He plays piano. He has helped me get on a good sleeping schedule. He thinks outside the box and has to have a reason for doing anything he does. Just because something is available does not make it worth doing/consuming. He is a great match for me.

Month of Thanksgiving day 13

2011-11-14T16:36:00.000-08:00

Emergency preparedness- Over the past 3-4 months Jefferson and I have been becoming more interested in emergency preparedness. While I have always loved the practice of food storage, our interest is expanding beyond buying cans of beans and spaghetti sauce when they are on sale. This new attitude is largely attributed to the books Jefferson started reading about different end-of-the world scenarios: EMP, economic collapse, plaque, and, yes, even zombies as well as some reference-type books, mostly "How to survive the end of the World as we know it" by James Wesley Rawles. What all these books have in common is highlighting the fragility of the society we live in and the importance of being self-sufficient and able to defend yourself.

Month of Thanksgiving day 12

2011-11-14T16:34:00.001-08:00

Making decisions-Anyone who has watched me make some decisions knows how difficult it can be for me to do sometimes. Especially between two good things. I tend to want to make everyone happy and then end up feeling crazy. I am happy to say that I am slowly getting better at this, though that means I've had more experience with having to say no to some people or some things. Making a list of pros and cons helps me quite often. Recent decisions: where to take a birthing class, what health insurance plan to choose, take a weekend trip to Eugene or not and how to take charge of my work schedule.

Month of Thanksgiving day 11

2011-11-14T16:33:00.000-08:00

Learning new skills-knitting, cooking, baseboards
This year we have both learned some new skills. One of my friends taught me how to knit socks. She was so patient in this, meeting with me every week for pretty much the entire summer. I'm working on my third pair, but can confidently say that I can knit socks.

I have also learned a lot of cooking skills-as opposed to baking-this year. I know how to make lots more meals now than I did at the beginning of the year. A few examples, I have learned how to make noodles, how to sprout things (I tried lentils), how to make beef jerky, how to make stir-fry, stew, and lots of different soups.

This one is for Jefferson, because he learned how to replace our old baseboards--a project which we completed in the main room of our condo a few weeks ago. He figured out a good system for measuring, cutting, nailing and caulking and finished this project surprisingly fast. He was quite pleased with the result, and so am I.

Month of Thanksgiving day 10

2011-11-14T16:30:00.001-08:00

Amazing friends-I have been thinking a lot about my friends lately. I am amazed at the wonderful people that are in my life. I know so many smart, talented, funny, generous women. It is inspiring to know these people. It's nice to have friends who make me want to become a better woman. I feel like I have a long way to go, but that's another great thing-I know they still like me and I don't have to put on a mask or pretend to be some one I am not. It's also nice to know that I have people in addition to my husband and family to turn to for help. Thank you, friends.

Month of Thanksgiving-day 9

2011-11-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

My sister serving a mission- Hillary is in the Rome, Italy Mission and has been for a year now. I look forward to getting her letters every week because they are so Hillary: full of life and energy and love. She has met some great people there and every day is the best day of her life ever!!! Gotta love missionaries :)

Month of Thanksgiving day 8

2011-11-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

The new little man in our life, to know that he is alive and well and growing on track. And I love this scary face shot.

Month of Thanksgiving Day 5

2011-11-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am grateful for daylight savings time ending. Truthfully, I wish we didn't even have daylight savings. But I think you'll agree with me that getting an extra hour this time of year is nice.

Month of Thanksgiving day 4

2011-11-04T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for surprises, as I got not one, but TWO surprises in one day. First was a package from my mom, which I knew about, but didn't know when to expect it. Thanks, Mom! Second were some treats that a friends left on my doorstep. Jefferson is lucky that I shared them with him. Now, I'm pooped and going to sleep for a long time...

Month of Thanksgiving day 3

2011-11-03T19:00:00.001-07:00

Today I am thankful for music. I can be such a softie when it comes to good music that is performed well. It moves me in a way that nothing else can. I love to sing and play music, though looking back recently I haven't done a lot of either. However, I am currently playing my clarinet in two musical groups, the Bellevue Community Band and an orchestra at church that will perform later this month. Already with both of these groups I have had several goose-bump moments.

I learned a valuable lesson while in band in college. This was a time where I was involved in an inter-collegiate band and was playing a 3rd clarinet part. My knee-jerk reaction when playing anything other than first used to be that the music is beneath me, so there is no reason for me to practice-it's so easy, right? But with this particular scenario, I decided to throw that was of thinking out the window and to really put my whole attention and musicality into my part. I paid attention to the dynamics and accents and articulations more than I think I ever had before. I have to say that it was a great experience in rehearsals and in the performance, one of my most memorable in fact. I really felt like I was doing my part to contribute to the band and create a beautiful sound. The lesson I learned and try to apply is to do my very best all the time; do a quality job, not just a good enough job. This lesson totally has application as a dental hygienist, too.

One last story about music. I remember singing a lot while growing up. So much so that sometimes I think I would annoy my youngest sister, Miriam. She would say that I had a song for everything, since I would often break into song or interrupt conversations with a little snippet of music. So, a few weeks ago Jefferson and I were out shopping for some clothes for him. While he was trying on the clothes, I was sitting in the waiting room and listening to the music that was playing. There was one song that I really liked, but had never heard before. I remembered some of the words, looked them up online and found my song: Melody by Kate Earl. This song totally reminds me of my sisters, how they are so fun, carefree and bold. I bought it and listen to it, and every time I think of them. I love that music can help us remember people and experiences. What are your experiences with music? What are some of your current or all-time favorite songs?

Month of Thanksgiving day 2

2011-11-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for our kitchen. Really. I even made a list a few years ago of things I like about our house and the kitchen was on it. I love that there is so much workable counter space. I fell in love with our flat-top range when we moved in several years ago-it is SO much easier to keep clean than electric coils or a gas range. I like that the sink is below a window. I like that we have a pantry. I like that it is bright and opens to the living room. I like that we installed my ancient laptop in one of the cupboards and hooked a monitor up to it so I can compute AND cook at the same time.

And the best part about the kitchen is all the fun things I've been making the past few weeks. Just this week alone I have made tomato soup (using the rest of our harvest), yogurt, beef jerky-which was a first attempt and work great with the dehydrator, two different types of bread, bread pudding to use up our heals of bread that I just can't bring myself to throw out until/unless they are moldy, stir fry (which didn't last long enough to get it's picture taken but was fantastic) and salvaged the poor chili we made over the weekend that was not flavorful at all. Wow, no wonder I feel like I've lived in the kitchen all week. Maybe this is my way of "nesting"?

Month of Thanksgiving #1

2011-11-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

On a whim, and inspired by my sister-in-law, I am going to try to post one thing each day this month for which I am thankful. Today is a tie between technology and family. We live far away from the families we grew up in. Thanks to technology, we can keep in touch with them all pretty easily. I am so glad that there are many ways to keep in touch with our parents and sibs: webcams, facebook, blogs, phone, emails for my sister in Italy, occasional flights to visit each other. It is refreshing and fun for us to keep in touch with our families. Yes, I love technology, but not as much as you:

you see.

Absolute adventure and awe

2011-08-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

Our Kauai trip back in March/April is old news, but I only recently finished combing through all the pictures and deciding on my favorites.
check them all out here

I'm at a loss in describing the trip. (Remember, I aced all my math classes and not langauge arts)
Kauai is unbelievably beautiful. Vanessa and I have been to many beautiful places, but none compare.

The island is small, but is full of incredible variety and thrilling adventures. The colors are so vivid and the air so sweet. The coastal cliffs and inner canyons are staggering to behold. The tropic birds dance in the air - diving and banking so swiftly. Whales leap in distance, and sea turtles along with fish of all colors keep the perimeter.
One of the houses we stayed at had a grove with fruit trees. We plucked some oranges and were all surprised at the explosion (literally) of juice and flavor. I've never had fruit like that before.

All these beautiful things along with whatever modern conveniences you need. Costco provides.
Is everything perfect in paradise? Of course not. The mosquitos could get bad, and the feral chickens act as if they own the place. But for me those are forgettable.

I am so glad that Vanessa and I could share these grand adventures with my parents as well. I am so impressed and pleased that you two were strong and fit to join in on nearly all of our hiking adventures. It was so much fun exploring this amazing island together.
Our Kauai trip was superlative. I don't believe I will ever be able to top it.

check them all out here
(alright, so this blog wasn't so descriptive. if you want more tips and details on how to make your own Kauai trip successful, contact me)

Recreational Coding v1

2011-06-25T09:26:00.000-07:00

When I started programming in freshman year of high school, maybe 10% of the coding I did was for the school projects/competitions and 90% was for my own programs that I wanted to build. I enjoy figuring out math and logic problems - which is the core of computer programming.

In college I mostly only did coding for school projects and not for fun.

And now at work, I don't really code at all. And I have missed it for years now.

So, recently I tried to dive into coding for fun again.

I decided it would be fun to make my own maze generating algorithm. All squares must be reachable and there is only one path to each square. That was the more enjoyable part. Then, I tried to put UI around it all so someone could try to solve it. That was not as enjoyable because it is more about (re)learning the correct syntax than solving an interesting math/logic problem. I think this could be a mid 200-level computer science project.
Try it out here!
Create a maze and drag the circle to the end. You can backtrack by dragging the circle backwards or double clicking on any visited square.
(warning - always be wary of downloading exes from the internet)

I'm not sure what I'll code up next - but I hope to keep this up because it brought back the joys of creating.

Gardening Gone Wild

2011-06-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

I take a bit of a hands-off approach to gardening. I like growing things on our deck, but have had to learn to choose things that will grow with the unpredictable sunlight we get. So a few years ago I switched from trying broccoli, carrots and peas to lettuce, spinach and cilantro. They grew amazingly well and produced seeds, some that we gathered, others that were scattered anywhere including the planter boxes.

There was a year of no garden because of the construction being done to our condo. We kept the dirt in the boxes and stacked them on top of each other out of the way.

Last September, we got to put our deck back together and what do you know, but plants started growing in the boxes again!! Now we are enjoying the second generation of our cilantro and lettuce from two years ago with out even having to replant. Weird, huh?

Monster Lettuce

Cilantro Forest

I was telling this to one of my patients who is a big gardener and I mentioned how the cilantro plants we have now look a little different than the first ones, the leaves are more spiney and less broad. He said that the first ones, which I grew from seeds, were probably somehow genetically controlled to produce picture perfect cilantro, and that this round may have mutated a little. All I know is that it still tastes like cilantro. Maybe the spinach and cilantro hybridized? We didn't get any new spinach plants.

In addition to our wild greens, we bought a tomato plant a few weeks ago at the high school's plant sale, because it's a trendy thing to do and it sounds like a keystone to a successful garden. It outgrew its tiny stake a long time ago. So far, leaning it against the table is keeping it upright. It has some cute yellow flowers that I hope the bees notice so we get some fruit from the baby.

Mystery Flowers

The last things we have are non-produce: a miniature rose bush that is finally blooming, some "mystery flowers," the seeds for which we got from Jefferson's cousin's wedding reception a few months ago (so far no flowers, but one that looks a lot like our other cilantro plants), and a fern that found its way into one of our pots during the construction. I guess since we neglected our pots for so long, anything that could grow in them just took root. I liked the fern and decided to keep it.

And the thing that sparked this patio photo shoot: I installed a flagpole holder. I like flying the flag on holidays, it was something that the scouts used to do growing up as a fund raiser and has stuck with me. Too bad we won't be here on Independence Day to post our colors. But hey, today the sun is shining and that makes it feel like a holiday!

5 years and counting

2011-05-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Let's walk together down memory lane for a moment-

In February '06, we were both flown to Seattle to see if our family would enjoy the place and be willing to move. Soon after this picture was taken, we decided to accept the MS job offer and move to Washington.
(Notice that this picture was taken Feb 10th, and I am on a windy boat ride in the Sound with sun shining all over and I don't even need a jacket. It has not been that warm and clear in February or March or April here for any of the following years. I don't know if God or MS was messing with the weather during our trip to convince us that Washington was the right place to move to, but it sure worked.)

After graduating from BYU in April '06, I continued working for a few weeks then we prepared for the trip to Washington. We stuffed all our junk in a rented truck and attached the Accord to the back of it. Vanessa's pickup was also crammed with junk. (Looking back, we would not have rented the big truck because within months we got rid of all that junk anyways. But when you are a college kid, you hang on to everything you can get).
We convinced my bro (with $$$ and an airline ticket back) to help drive - me always in the big truck with someone for company and the other person following behind in the pickup. We made the trip from Provo to Bellevue in 2 days. Besides melting the truck's brakes on the hill on I-84 approaching Pendleton OR, the trip went smoothly. We went slow and everybody passed us.
We arrived a week or so before work started and played around the Seattle area to enjoy the last of my freedom before working for the rest of my life.
And the rest is history.

Although we will never forget Texas or Nevada, we are true Pacific-North-Westerners now, passionate about discovering waterfalls, climbing mountains, and all outdoor adventures. Sure, the winters are long and dark, but as soon as a sunny day comes (like yesterday) you forget all that and are overwhelmed by the dazzling blues and greens.
MS continues to be very rewarding for me. And Vanessa is the best dental hygienest in the state. We are both within walking/biking distance of work so our car/gas bills are trivial.
Not everything is perfect, of course. We are losing $$$,$$$ on the condo - a poor financial decision I hope never to beat.

Our future here is as bright as ever. We know that it is the place for us to be and we are so grateful for the opportunities and friends we have here. We look forward for a decade here, even longer.

The glass is half full

2011-03-13T20:20:00.000-07:00

On being optimistic

OR

Being grateful for what we have

This morning I was reading in the USAA magazine, which includes tips on how to manage your money and plan for retirement, an article about the glass being half full or half empty.

As I read this, I was looking at the picture of the glass, and I said to myself, "I always want to see the glass as half full. If I were to say that it is half empty I'd be focusing on the half that I am missing, not the half that I have." What if a person who saw the glass as half empty were able to completely fill his glass? Would that person be satisfied then? Or would he would start whining about how so-and-so has a bigger glass and how unfair that is. The person would never be satisfied, because there would always be someone who had more than he does.

Sometimes I feel that way, because I get caught up in seeing what other people have that I miss seeing what I have. But I'd like to say that my glass is beyond half full, my cup runneth over. Sometimes it takes challenges, personally or in the lives of those you love, to see how greatly the Lord blesses us. I have developed a new appreciation for my health. I am so glad to have a strong body that can work for many hours at a time. My employment and being able to use the skills I've worked hard to gain is a huge blessing. I have learned so much in the 9 months I've been practicing hygiene and I keep learning new things every day. I have loving friends and family. And of course a husband who loves me-Vanessa, the whole person- despite my weaknesses and craziness.

I hope that whatever struggles you may be facing, that you can have a perspective to see the glass as half full. Look for the good in everything and greet life's challenges with a smile. Remember that all these things shall give thee experience and shall be for thy good. Here's to life, growth and happiness!

Imitation is the best form of flattery

2010-12-31T20:45:00.000-08:00

Did anyone else's mom tell them that as a child? I know mine did when I finkishly didn't want my sister to copy me. Well, I sure hope that the author of my favorite food blog is more grown up than I was as a kid, because she totally inspired this in me. Enjoy salivating over these pictures of German Chocolate pie I made for our awesome Christmas Eve dinner!

Winter Hiking

2010-12-22T12:36:00.000-08:00

OK, I realized that while learning about my ancestors is cool, having their pictures at the top of our blog might not be so cool. So I will write a new post to remedy that :)

In an attempt to stay in shape this winter and to bear the long hours of darkness better, we have been trying to get out more during the day on weekends. We hiked Tiger Mountain this past weekend. Good thing Jefferson was being so boy-scoutishly prepared because the hike was a bit more than the heart rate-raising stroll that I remembered it being. At the top it was snowing and very windy. We enjoyed our hiking snacks in front of a captive audience of birds. Anytime we'd drop a crumb, one would swoop down and eat it within seconds.

We hope to go hiking again this weekend, like we did last Christmas. We had a great work out and seem to making it through the winter better this year. And yesterday we make it past the winter solstice which means less darkness from now until June 21! Hallelujah!

John Conrad Naegle

2010-12-20T19:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess you could say that I've caught a bit of a history bug. It seems like half of what I read these days is some type of historical work. Most recently I read a biography of my great-great-great-grandpa, John Conrad Naegle. As with my other history reads, I went into this thinking that I would find it frightfully dull.* But, again as with my other history books, I found myself eating it up.

Briefly, John C. was born in Germany, moved to the US as a boy, joined the Church, served in the Mormon Battalion, was one of the the first gold miners of the California gold rush and owned a farm in San Jose. After his first marriage, he sold his farm in CA, moved to Lehi, UT and later Toquerville, UT (outside of St. George). He served a mission to the Swiss German mission. He had ranches in Beaver, UT; Toquerville; Lehi; and in what is now the Kiabab Forest of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, and had help from his wives to run these ranches. He later moved to Mexico and was involved in the colonization of two settlements these.

Something thing that left an impression on me was how committed he and his family were to the gospel and to the Church. He volunteered to serve in the Mormon Battalion to help the US fight in California, in the aftermath of the US not defending the Saints from persecution. He was called to move to Toquerville almost as soon as he became settled in Lehi. He left his family to serve a mission. He moved to Mexico to continue practicing plural marriage, and had multiple children precede him in death. In all this he and his family were faithful and generous.

The last insight I'll share is about polygamy. It was interesting to see how this family operated. Each wife pretty much ran her own house and did her share for the family. One wife mostly lived in northern Utah and would keep track of the children when they were at Brigham Young Academy. Other wives would specialize in making cheeses or dried fruit, which would be shared with the rest of the family. Since there was so much work to do, I guess it was easier for one person to become the primary producer of one product instead of everyone doing everything for herself. What I also learned was that polygamy was not for everyone. The book told about one of John C.'s wives who "could not live the principle of polygamy. After the birth of her third child she left her husband." She went to school, became a teacher and remarried and moved to Idaho.

So, at the risk of boring you, I will conclude. I learned a lot and now feel a much better connection to my family and to my heritage. I want to live so that I can faithfully meet all of my challenges in life, like John C and his family. I also want to learn more about the other lines of my family and hope that I can find some similar records.

*(Then why did I start reading it in the first place? I was in between books at the library and thought I'd get my next library book before finishing this. Alas, thanks to our library's new servers, I am STILL the first and only hold on my next book.)

Recent Books

2010-11-29T15:46:00.000-08:00

Nothing like it in the World, by Stephen Ambrose. Another American History book, this time about the building of the transcontinental railroad. How they built it, who was involved and how the railroad changed America was all entirely new to me. This book is packed with lots of dynamite, bad winters and (lack of) money. Compared to Undaunted Courage, I found this to read a little slower. I enjoyed the story and The West that Ambrose captures in his telling of it.

Book Thief, by Markus Zusak. Entertaining childhood perspective in this story about a girl in Nazi Germany. It focused on the relationships of people and the impact the Nazis had on everyday life. It didn't focus on the horror of the Holocaust and showed the strength and weakness of the main characters. A fast read and engaging writing style.

Puzzle Island, by Paul Adshead. This is actually a book I read when I was maybe 10 or 11. It is a kid book, only about 25 pages long. It contains lots of puzzles to help the author in his adventure. The reason I write about it is because I learned a lot while watching Jefferson do the puzzles. Since I knew that answers already, it was hard for me not to give them away to him, especially when he would be so close to figuring it out. But I think I did a good job of keeping the secret and letting him figure it out for himself. I was thinking about how to Heavenly Father or parents or people who have more experience than me that the answers in life must seem so obvious sometimes. But sometimes it is best not to give the answers away so that we can gain experience and learn. Even if we have to struggle during the learning process. Or sometimes the person must ask for help. (I would give Jefferson hints when he needed them.) Anyway, this is a fun book and easy to spend hours in. It is pretty challenging, so if you get it or give it to your kids prepare for some frustration.

Heartwarming Holiday Harmonies - volume 3

2010-11-25T09:42:00.000-08:00

From the producers of the universally lauded holiday music albums Happy Golden Days (2008) and Amid the Cold of Winter (2009) comes the latest installment of Christmas cheer.
Announcing:

Featuring these hit new songs:

Download it now!

The Criddle Christmas music album continues to be a blast to put together. We are happy to share it and hope you enjoy listening.
You should try it with your own family sometime - we would love to hear it and it is fun to do (ask me how).

Happy Holidays!

An entire legion of my best troops awaits them

2010-11-20T13:24:00.000-08:00

A short time ago in a place not far away I was thrilled to see all of my long lost friends. It was like going to heaven and all the people you love come to meet you. Or like taking a young child to disneyland and meeting Buzz Lightyear.

sorry for lousy cell phone picture. and that my eyes are closed (in tearful joy)

The normal dude ringing the bell has no sway over me. But when the Imperial forces are out surrounding the grocery store, displaying the iron fist of galactic domination, I can't help but open my wallet and pour out everything towards their just cause of smashing the Rebellion.

Maybe I'll try to join this fun group. But since I'm tall and slender they would probably make me wear the C3P0 costume :(

Undaunted Courage

2010-10-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Over the course of a few weeks I’ve been reading a history book, Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson and the Opening of the American West by Stephen E. Ambrose. This is an outstanding book about the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery as well as touching on contemporary events and trends.

Ambrose does a fantastic job of recreating the era. He includes enough relevant information to understand the motives of the major characters and how the United States came to possess the Louisiana Territory without bogging the story down with sleep-inducing minutia that I’ve encountered in other history books.

I appreciated the human elements of American Heroes like Jefferson and Lewis. For instance, Jefferson’s purchase of the Louisiana Territory was in part driven by his personal motives of acquiring more land (one of the driving forces for a Virginian plantation owner, like Jefferson and Lewis were) for the United States and was not a widely-celebrated move by his political opponents. Lewis was amazing out in the wilderness, but as soon as he came home from the expedition he followed a depressing and destructive route (not unlike many of today’s celebrities) that culminated in his suicide.

Reading about the untamed and virtually untouched plains along the Missouri River was magical. Lewis’s journal entries record numberless herds of buffalo, migrating squirrels, deer, elk, pronghorns (which he calls antelope) and enough fresh fruit to feed the men rowing their way upstream. He saw the White Cliffs of Montana, hauled all the outfit's supplies past this in the "great portage," located the source of the Missouri River (which is what the Louisiana Purchase included: the Missouri and all of it’s tributaries) and trekked over the Bitterroot Mountains to the Columbia River and the Pacific.

I am very impressed by Lewis’s meticulous record keeping. He didn’t always write his journal (and when he did the spelling was kwite creeatif) but he wrote volumes about the plants and animals he discovered, as well as the terrain. I’ve been inspired to keep a better journal. Also, I was impressed at what the Corps of Discovery was able to accomplish with such primitive tools. Lewis had a complex way of determining the longitude and latitude of any given point (provided it was not a cloudy night so he could see the stars). I now have a new appreciation for phones and the internet. Everything people wanted to communicate had to be either spoken directly or written down. Also I appreciate modern transportation. While in the middle of this book we flew to Las Vegas. The flight was 2.5 hours long. It took Lewis and Clark THREE YEARS to travel to the Pacific and back! That is astounding! Can you imagine what a miracle Lewis would consider an airplane?

To sum up, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in western development of the United States. This is where civilization of the west began. You will not be disappointed.

p.s. I suggest following along in an atlas as you read. Made it much easier to orient myself.

Gone to Extremes

2010-09-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

Sunshine and Clouds

From Mt Dickerman Hike September 2010

Meadows and Cliffs

From Mt Dickerman Hike September 2010

Light and Dark (or chiaroscuro for the Italian speakers out there)

From Mt Dickerman Hike September 2010

Fresh fruit-supplied by the mountain-and dried fruit brought from home were our snacks

From Mt Dickerman Hike September 2010

Thus were the extremes of our second hike to Mount Dickerman, not to mention the 3875 feet of elevation gain. Happy Birthday, Jefferson!

From Mt Dickerman Hike September 2010

More of the great outdoors

2010-08-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

This past week we made our trek to the final National Park in Washington that we had not yet visited: North Cascades. This was perhaps the most vertically oriented place I've ever been. Where ever you go, you are often not able to see either the top or bottom of things due to the sheerness (and also the forest).

From North Cascades National Park - Aug 2010

Three lakes connected by three tall dams create a giant staircase: Gorge Dam, Gorge Lake, Diablo Dam, Diablo Lake, Ross Dam, Ross Lake. Steep waterfalls are plentiful.

We camped near Diablo Lake and then left in the morning for the Ross Lake Resort. The resort is quite an interesting place. As the land is too steep for any construction, the resort floats at the edge of the lake. There is no road access. To get there, we had to park at the side of the road, hike almost 2 miles down to the lake, and then signal a boat from the resort to pick us up from the other side of the lake. Once there, we decided to be adventurous and rented a motorboat for the day.

From North Cascades National Park - Aug 2010

We almost had the whole of Ross Lake to ourselves.
The lake spans the US/Canada border, so we eventually visited our northerly neighbors. At the border there are no guards, but we were instead harassed by a cloud of mosquitos. Fleeing those Canadian bloodsuckers, we hopped back in the boat and returned to the good ol' US of A.
My favorite part of the trip was boating through Devil's Creek. It is so narrow that you can reach out touch the cliff walls on either side in many places. The water is an amazing jade/turquoise color, through which you can see the vertical walls continuing downwards. I don't think I did it quite justice with the camera, but I will say that it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.

From North Cascades National Park - Aug 2010

We love Washington.
More (compressed) pictures: available here

Granite Mountain

2010-07-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

This past weekend our adventures took us up to Granite Mountain, the third steepest hike we've done yet (first was Mailbox Peak from June, with a similar view, but more snow. Second was Mount Dickerman). Thankfully, it didn't feel so tough since we are now in better shape and hike smarter by setting a steady pace and refeuling en route. The view from the top made up for the challenging trek up.

#32 Make an article of clothing that becomes part of my regular wardrobe--Skirt

2010-07-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

Here it is, my first sewing project!. Overall, I am pleased and have worn this skirt a few times since finishing it last week. It certainly isn't perfect, but I like it because I created it. I learned tons while making this, and am so glad to have a sewing-savvy Mom to call when I needed help. This turned out so good that I went back to Joann's and bought another $.99 pattern to make a jacket. We'll see how it turns out :) While not necessarily the most time-efficient or cost-efficent way to grow my wardrobe, I must say that I loved creating this skirt. I also have so much more of an appreciation for nicely-made and nicely-fitted clothing.

Also, I rented a tailoring book from the library that I think is so awesome. What projects are you wokring on?

High on the Mountain Top

2010-07-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

(no, we don't actually climb it. we just play around it)
We had both been feeling that a return to the mountain was overdue. I was able to take a vacation day, so we left early Friday and sniped a prime camping spot at White River. The rest of Friday and all Saturday was spent on daring adventures all around the park.
Perfect weather, perfect vistas, and the perfect person to share it all with.

As normal, compressed pictures available in online album.

From Rainier July 2010

We did a similar camping trip last year, just one week later in July. How different the mountain was this year with much less wildflowers and much more snow! But how similar in leaving you breathless.

No matter who calls, I gotta screen my phone calls

2010-07-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

(I wonder which song is stuck in your head now?)
New number for contacting the Criddle's: 425-243-2743

For a while now I've felt that the $74/month (which includes all tax/fees/MS discount) we pay for our two cell phones gives us no where near the returns it should. And I don't like burning money. We're already on the smallest VZW family plan with no text/PIX/data. We don't use anywhere near the number of minutes allotted and there isn't anything more that I could cut - expect the service itself...

So after some research and testing, I think we've found a solution that will reduce the monthly bill to a total of $10-$20 a month, without sacrificing the ability to talk to whoever we want whenever we want and without difficulty for us to make calls or people to call us. Let me share the plan. If your scenarios are similar to ours maybe it could help cut your bills, also.

The key element is to switch the cells to pay-as-you-go and only use them when there is no other option. For example: emergencies or when we are out and about. Almost all of our calls happen at home or my office and don't need to be on cells. So, instead of using the cells, we would use a home phone solution or my office phone. After research, we decided the best home phone solution is a Skype In/Out account with dedicated phone that doesn't require the PC to be on. It works just like any landline, has its own number, and costs just $5/month ($60/year). The overall monthly cost is $5 for Skype + $0 for office phones + $5-$15 cell (pay-as-you-go @$0.25/min) = $10-$20/month.

Sounds great, but isn't that going to be a mess for people trying to call us? which number should they dial?: the cells, the skype, the office phones?

Come Google Voice to the rescue. The GV number is what ties this all together. Instead of people having to worry about which number to call, we only give them the one GV number. They only need to know that one phone number. The GV system will, according to my rules, forward the call to the appropriate phones or send it straight to voicemail.
For example -
A family member or close friend calls the GV number: the home phone and one/or both of the cells will ring. We'll pick it up on the skype phone if we're at home, or if we think it is worthwhile, we'll pick it up on a cell
A church person or other friend calls the GV number: only the home skype phone will ring. cells remain silent
An unknown person calls the GV number: goes straight to GV voicemail. no phones ring so we are never bothered. We'll check the voicemail later online at our convenience (and it is transcribed for us)

Due to these rules, I'm not afraid of sharing the new GV number on this public blog. If crazies call or I haven't assigned the caller to a group yet, it goes straight to voicemail and we are never bothered.
425-243-2743
Please use this number for us now. We will likely stop answering the cells if people keep calling them directly.

But what about caller ID? If you call somebody from the cells or homephone, they see those numbers and call you back on them, not the GV number, right? Not so. The skype phone is set to show up as the GV number when placing a call. The cells can place calls through GV if we need them to show the right caller ID.

And that's the plan. Do you have any improvements or suggestions? With all the money we will save ($648-$768/year), I plan on buying a lot of ice cream.

Sunny side of the state

2010-07-01T17:51:00.000-07:00

A quick summary of our most recent adventure

I took off work Friday and we headed east through the Cascades to have a weekend of sun, warmth, and adventure. We brought the bicycles along to ride around in the desert. The trip was amazing and we highly recommend it, especially for anyone needing some sun. The contrast between our side of the mountains and the eastern side is quite dramatic.
(click for more pictures)

From Coulee Country June 2010

Stops included:

Wanapum State Park

Gingko Petrified Forest State Park

Summer Falls

Lake Lenore Caves

Sun Lakes - Dry Falls State Park (we camped here the first night)

Grand Coulee Dam (including visitors center and guided tour)

Crown Point Overlook

Steamboat Rock State Park

Wanapum Vista

I've always been a proud Texan, but we are sure in love with Washington.

#63 Donate Hair to Locks of Love and #73 Buy a red necklace

2010-07-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

Before: the longest my hair has ever been.

After: 12 inches gone to Locks of Love. It took me a few days to warm up to the new look, but now I like it. I save so much time combing it now that it is so short, which is nice since I am so busy these days J/K :)

And next, my new red necklace. Actually, I made it since I couldnt find a necklace that was exactly what I wanted. There's something about red accessories that I love, especially red shoes and necklaces. I could wear these things with just about everything--and in fact I do.

School Recap

2010-06-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

After receiving notice of successfully passing my last board exam, I feel like school is really finished and so I can start processing and reflecting on it all. **Long post**

First of all, I loved, loved, loved my class, instructors and school in general. Of course there were things that I found annoying at times (that is bound to happen spending 10 hours a day in such tight quarters for 7 quarters, right?). Each person in my class was so nice, smart and funny. It was so great for me to grow close to people who love teeth like I do. I know pretty much everyone doesn't like going to the dentist so I try to spare the juicy details. If it seems like I talk a lot about dental hygiene, just know that I don't talk nearly as much about it as I could.

There were so many good events that happened before getting into school and during school. To name a few, I was able to get all of my credits transferred so I didn't have to re-take any classes. There were 2 classes that I had never taken, so after I was accepted I took those in the summer before the program started. I'm grateful to Dr. Ellie, who I worked for at the time and will work for again when I get my license, for letting me leave work early to make it to class on time. Another great thing was being able to carpool with one of my classmates. Not only did this save me lots of money and wear-and-tear on our cars, Xin and I became friends and were able to talk a lot about the material we were learning.

Going to school really is better than on the job training. I was a pretty good dental assistant: I think my interpersonal skills and work ethic were stronger assets than my technical skills and I was able to discover a lot of things on my own because I was trained on the job. That's not to say that my on the job training wasn't good, because my dad, mom, aunt, and grandpa are wonderful teachers and are great at explaining things as they do them. There's simply not time to have a classroom discussion while working in a dental office. But now I know WHY things are the way they are and how to get great results, so now I have improved technical skills to go with my work ethic and interpersonal skills.

My favorite part about school was learning to give injections. I LOVE giving injections, especially when the person has unusual anatomy and I am still able to get them numb. This doesn't really surprise me, though. When I started down the health care path in 2004 at BYU and took my first anatomy class I was in love. It is visual, hands-on and logical. The Latin names for structures all had a purpose to them. I also love finding ways to connect with my patients about caring for their teeth. I don't want to be a naggy hygienist that tells everyone the some old "brush and floss" lecture. I do think it's important to clean between your teeth, but floss is not the only way to do that. Also, my favorite home-care aid is disclosing tablets. That can teach a patient more about keeping their teeth clean then all the lectures in the world.

Being in school gave me a chance to get involved in the American Dental Hygienists' association. I was the student representative for my class and as such, went to meetings with practicing hygienists and learned more about the profession outside of school. I am now serving as the membership committee on my local component of the Washington State Dental Hygienists' Association and hope to get more involved politically in the future. In January, as a class we went to Olympia for the WSDHA's rally day. I was in a group of 3 other hygienists from my legislative district and we talked with our representatives about the issues that affected our profession. I started out being a little shy and not speaking up, because that's how I am I and didn't want to sound stupid for stating something that seemed obvious (where do you plan to get the money and how to you propose to get it?) but no one was talking about. But I got past that and started grilling the reps a little, when I saw that the more seasoned hygienists in my group were not stirring the pot at all. It was actually quite fun and made me less scared of "the powers that be." Also I didn't feel very represented, even as a hygienist.

Aside from the leadership position, I helped out my class a lot in other ways. Having a tech-savvy husband has taught me A LOT over the years and so I often took on the job of making powerpoints of spreadsheets, because I was fast at it and I knew that if there was ever anything that I didn't know how to do, Jefferson would know how to do it. Jefferson and I were especially helpful to my class when it came time to find patients for this last board exam. Finding patients was something that we had to do as a class, outside of our own clinic time (during first year clinic time) and we all had to participate roughly equally. Thought I didn't want to as first, I took on the job of coordinating every one's schedule (which was not quite as difficult as I thought it would be. If a person was not scheduled to be in class that day, then they were available to screen patients). Then I decided how many people we needed at each screening session and how many sessions there were. Multiple those numbers to get the number of positions, divided by the number of students and that how many times each person has to help screen. I made an excel sheet with all the schedules, but Jefferson helped me by making a formula to keep track of how many times I had scheduled each person. This saved me a lot of time that I would have spend going through each row counting. Anyway, TMI I know. Guess I could have been blogging about this stuff all along, but it is not as exciting as our awesome pictures and adventures.

The schedule paid off, and everyone was able to find a board patient. Seriously that is the hardest part, in most cases. There were some people in my class who had the crappy experience of getting a patient with really tenacious calculus (think the tartar is rock hard because it's been there so long , below the gums and pretty much is part of the tooth) or their first patient was not accepted (because they didn't have enough calculus) and so had to use a backup patient and the backup patient refused to get an injection and was scared of needles. Talk about stressful!! But she passed and handled the situation beautifully.

Other things I did to save my class were volunteer Jefferson to edit our class photo, print it and frame it. This was fun for me, bug again, another project that no one wanted to do. Don't worry, other people did lots of stuff, too. So I'm not tooting my own horn too much, everyone was generally good about helping out and sharing the load. I also was the birthday party committee for a while, but then I gave up on that when I couldn't remember the first of the month was coming and that I needed to bring treats to share with everyone. Turned out to be more work than I thought it would be.

So, now that school is over I'm cleaning the house very slowly. We've accumulated a lot of stuff that is encumbering our tiny condo. Also I am exercising and trying to make a dent in my "pile of projects" that consists of clothes I want to try to alter, photos to scan and recipes to make and to catalog, among other things. I have two days of work lined up so far, with possibly more in the future with these doctors (who happen to be sisters, but each owns her own practice) or with another doctor who is their friend. I am thinking about getting my bachelor's degree, but right now my reasons for doing that would be mostly just to do it, not so much to use it. What I could use my bachelor's degree for that I am interested in is teaching. In fact, the last day of restorative clinic I was talking with one of my instructors and she said she thinks I'd be a good teacher. I'm not so sure about that...I imagine parenthood being pretty similar in that there is so much that the student can't know or understand until he's experienced it, and I'm afraid I might try to do too much for my students and derive them of a learning opportunity. Sometimes it's ice to see some one reach the posterior maxillary teeth, and sometimes it's nice to struggle with it and figure it out one your own. Each student will want something different at different times and as an instructor you have to be flexible to meet those needs and learning styles. I personally was more of the let-me-figure-it-out-on-my-own type and didn't ever get really good at taking feedback. In fact, during the last quarter, we had some people from temp agencies come talk to us and give us some things to think about when interviewing. One of the questions was "how do you like to receive correction?" I had to laugh at my response of: "I don't like to receive correction!" But I'm trying to be more open to it and to other people ideas. As I said, I want to stay involved politically. There are some exciting things in the works for dental hygienists like making new laws that would allow create a kind of advanced dental hygiene therapist who would be allowed to work without the supervision of a dentist, to drill and place minor fillings and run his or her own practice. Mostly I want to try to get the message across that I don't feel obligated to give my services to people for free, which is what a lot of community health and health care politics is about. Anyway, I enjoy stirring the pot a little and making people question their motives. If they do feel that it is their duty to work for free, that's fine, but as long as they have a good reason and don't force me to follow.

That beings me to my last point (for now). Perhaps one of the things I loved the most about the mindset of a dental hygienist is that it has really taught me to use my own brain and to make decisions that I feel confident about. Now that I am out of school I will not be being checked by instructors, so I have to judge myself if I did a good job cleaning that person's teeth or not. I have to be able to find my own satisfaction in knowing that I did the best work I could for a patient and that there are not instructors telling me "good job" and giving me feedback. I was pretty independent before school but not very decisive, but now in some ways I'm better at making decisions quickly that I feel good about. I am definitely better at thinking objectively and finding solutions. In fact, one of my personal slogans during school that I came up with is, "There IS a solution." Whether I know what it is at the time, I know that every problem has a solution.

I've got to thank Jefferson again, because not only has his computer knowledge come in handy, he's been encouraging me to finish my education since before we got married 5 years ago. He's put up with a lot of me ignoring him the past 2 years. I'm glad that we can chill out now, instead of me having school stuff to do every night. It's been a great journey, sometimes hard but I never thought about giving up since one specific day a few years back when I made the commitment to get in to school and to complete it. I'm so happy to have accomplished this and to be a hygienist. Now watch me work.

Upon this Rach I will build my church

2010-05-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

That is how the scripture reads in my book.
Please enjoy our next recording: Sergei Rachmaninoff's Suite No. 1 for 2 pianos Op. 5 mvt. III Les Larmes Largo di Molto, in G minor
Download

Trivia - my first date with Vanessa was going to be to a concert that included the complete Suite No. 1, Suite No. 2, and Symphonic Dances. But no one picked up the phone when I called and of course I didn't want to leave a message. So I gave up and went with my buddy instead. It was my favorite collection of music for a long time. And fortunately I was able to connect with Vanessa a few weeks later for another music concert which became our real first date.

The title translates to "The Tears". An epigraph for this song is taken from Russian poet Tyutchev -
  Tears, human tears, that pour forth beyond telling,
  Early and late, in the dark, out of sight,
  While the world goes on its way all unwittingly,
  Numberless, stintless, you fall unremittingly,
  Pouring like rain, the long rain that is welling
  Endlessly, late in the autumn at night.

Like the last recording, this is another strange duet with me playing both parts and trying to keep them synchronized. You'll hear plenty of mistakes if you listen for them, but the recording meets my quality bar and is really fun to do.

Enjoy!

More May Activities

2010-05-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

A quick summary of recent events -

Two more trips to the Seattle Symphony
Highlights were Piano Concerto in A Minor by Schumann and Rachmaninoff's peerless second piano concerto

Cedar Butte hike
Since my knee was giving us some troubles, we chose this short, close, easy hike next to Rattlesnake lake. I recently purchased a circular polarizer for the new camera which was fun to try out. Then, we just chilled out at the lake for hours.

From New camera tests

Seattle Center
It was cold and rainy when we got out the door yesterday so we planned on doing indoor activities. We received many recommends for the Hubble3D IMAX show so we decided to go check it out. It was a great show and also convinced Vanessa to become an astronaut (myself having been converted when just a young child). If I didn't really need to work for a living, I would work in space colonization. Despite the gray wet start, it turned out to be a beautiful day.
From New camera tests

Graduation photo shoot
Vanessa's graduation is just around the corner! We brought her cap and gown along to her campus to take some photos. Doesn't she look great!
From New camera tests

A new perspective

2010-05-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't know, I've been wanting a new camera for some time. Although it has served us well enough, our old P&S camera's limitations only grow more and more frustrating.

So, after many months of research, I defined my requirements for a new camera (with meeting budget being a top requirement). Unfortunately, no camera in existence matched those requirements yet. Many months later, one camera did, and upon finding a decent deal (hooray bing cashback!) I snatched it right up.

The camera and lenses (30mm f2!!, 18-55mm f3.5-5.6) came in last Monday. I've been wanting to prove the camera so that I would know if I would like to keep it or return it. The weather wasn't so nice earlier in the week, but the weekend was wonderful and I took 400+ shots of our adventures. I have a lot to learn - there are so much more buttons! It is so fun and exciting to learn more and have the capability to do more.
I think it is a keeper (though it really isn't hard to beat out our old camera).

Some selections from the tests: New Camera Tests
(Note - picasa compresses greatly. originals available upon request)

#66 Clean window on back of truck cab

2010-05-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

The Old Gaffer is 20 years old this year and has probably never had these windows cleaned (there is about a one inch gap between the cab and the cover for the bed). This created especailly poor visiblilty on rainy days. We love our little truck--Here's to another 20 years!

Before:

After:

#91 Go to the Zoo

2010-05-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

We actually did this in February. This was our second time to the Seattle zoo and both times I've been impressed with how many animals they have.

Congrats, Jon!

2010-04-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

Way to go bro for graduating, and with a Masters at that! And welcome now to the real world.

We were able to see tons of family during our visit to Utah this past week. We enjoyed having fun with everyone and reminiscing about our own times at BYU.
4 years ago I completed my CS undergrad at BYU. It is odd to think that I've been in my career as long as I was a student...

Here are some photos from the trip.
(Heavily compressed by Picasaweb - full images available by request)

Look what I got

2010-04-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

You Can't Stop the Beet -hoven

2010-03-27T17:33:00.000-07:00

For your enjoyment, I have just finished another recording:
Download here

It is an arrangement of Beethoven's 7th symphony 2nd movement for 2 pianos that I found online. You may recall that this song made my #1 favorite list for last year.

Getting the timing between the 2 pianos was more difficult than the notes were. You should be able to hear the learning progress in action - the last third or so is much more in sync than the rest. I felt like leaving the rest as is though and didn't want to go back and redo/correct it. This song also takes the record for the longest song we have ever recorded. For now...

Recent adventures

2010-03-07T19:51:00.001-08:00

As opposed to all the previous winters we have so far experienced here, this one has not been filled with disasters of ice/snow/wind. Sunny days and warmer temperatures prompt us to get an early start on this year's adventures.
See some pics from recent adventures here.
Wallace Falls
Woodland Park Zoo
Bellevue Botanical Gardens
Mt Si

Swimming with the fishes

2010-02-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

I usually just share my recorded music with my parents, but I like this one enough to share it out a little more broadly.
Try to imagine your first visit to an aquarium: a quiet dark room with bright tanks that cast dancing watery lights all over. Brilliantly-colored exotic fishes slowly drift by the glass, unnaturally graceful in both form and motion.
Now listen to Aquarium
(From Le carnaval des animaux by Camille Saint-Saëns)

I used the original full score that I found online. It would have been nice to use real instruments instead of synth ones, but I can't play those instruments and don't have friends that do either.

Enjoy!

The cross-stitchery

2010-01-31T16:56:00.000-08:00

Been working on this for 10 years. Someday I'll finish it.

Monthly 101 in 1001 update

2010-01-31T16:45:00.000-08:00

All goals that I've worked on or completes this month:

15. Read conference ensign before the next general conference (1/6)

16. Attend the temple every month (2/33), December 2009, January 2010,

9. Listen to cd’s I’ve never heard all the way through. get rid of ones I don’t want (22/66)

7. Use crock pot once every two weeks during school so dinner’s ready when we get home (1/12)

a. Enchilada soup

2. Make a new recipe every month (1/33)

a. December 2009-Breadsticks—LOVE THEM!

b. January 2010 Chocolate buttercream frosting from Hershey’s cocoa box

19. Update this list monthly (2/33)Last updated Jan 2010

21. Earn my dental hygiene license

22. Be realistic: school is the #1 priority on this list for at least the next 6 months

23. Finish the cross-stitchery

51. lights out before 10pm during the week

85. Buy a dehydrator

95. Tour the Washington state capitol--cool building, cool to see the government working on the state level

a. 1/25/2010 Rally day for the Washington State Dental Hygienist's Association

27. Earn my Young women personal progress award as a leader--learned about the new YW program for 2010

28. Inspire someone else to start his/her own list of 101 in1001

a. Megan Ashman

It smells like righteousness!!

2010-01-31T16:24:00.000-08:00

That is how I described the wonderful smell that filled our home when we first started dehydrating fruit. That's right folks, we have a dehydrator! (Cross off #85, even though we didn't BUY it). It was given to us by Jeff's parents since they never used it and we wanted one.

A few factoids about dehydrating:
1. the fruit we've dehydrated is now part of our daily diet. We've replaced cheezits in lunches for string cheese and dried fruit.
2. Our dehydrating would not be nearly as quick or successful without a mandolin slicer. Funny because my mom gave me this kitchen gadget years ago, I never used it and it was about to go to Goodwill, when we used it to make hash browns a few weeks ago and now the thin uniform slices of fruit. I would not dehydrate without this!

3. Bananas are my favorite fruit to dry currently. They look a little brown and are nothing like the "banana chips" you might expect, but they are delish! We haven't had such great luck finding killer deals on cheap high-quality fruit, but hopefully that will change in the summer(or some one can recommend a good place). We did buy the "cut" bananas yesterday that don't have a stem for $.30/lb and they are drying as I type this.

4. We are still looking for an inexpensive ($3-4) metal corer. We bought a plastic one, but the serrations are getting dull already
5. We've dried apples, pears, bananas and canned pineapple--just for fun. The one apple leather we did was not very liquidy and so turned out cracked like a dry lake bed--but still very tasty. I want to try more leathers, and even jerky eventually.
6. Dehydrating is easy and fun!

My Best of 2009 Awards

2009-12-31T17:27:00.000-08:00

We've had so many fun experiences and adventures this year. Summer was nice and long allowing us to get outdoors every weekend. For the colder wetter months we found plenty of activities to keep us occupied. Here are my favorites for the year - you may want to investigate some if you have similar tastes as I. What are your favorites?

Here is last year's list.

My favorite adventures:

1. Alaska Cruise
Dazzling views, thrilling adventures, and perfect company makes this #1. We still think about it everyday.
2. Columbia River Gorge / Goldendale WA trip
Ever heard of Goldendale, WA before? Well, neither had I. Nor had we ever done anything at the Columbia river before besides driving over the bridge on the way to Oregon. Highlights: numerous waterfall/lake hikes, fun driving along the river, watching scenery along the river change from lush green forests to arid yet fruitful golden fields, views of Mt Hood/Adams/St Helens, camping, sunset at fake Stonehenge, and viewing distant galaxies from the Goldendale observatory late into the nights.
3. Mt Rainier camp out
Yes, we've been here quite a few times. However, it was our first camping trip in the park and first visit to the southern Paradise area. Glaciers, wildflowers, wildlife, and amazing hiking trails abound. The sunset at Paradise made the colors so vivid. Camping in the park helped tremendously in avoiding the crowds as we could stay later/arrive earlier than all the day-visitors.
4. Mt Dickerman
I'll make an exception to only mentioning top threes to put this in the list. It is clearly out-classed by the other adventures, but deserves mention as my favorite single day activity (everything else is multi-day). A long hike that is endurable because it is never too steep. Instead of walking in a forest the whole time like other hikes around here, this hike is much more open and exposed to daylight. 360 degree views from the heart of the Cascade mountains is the reward.

My favorite reads

1. The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein
With strong echos of the American Revolution sounding throughout, this sci-fi novel describes the lunar colonies' revolt against the oppressive earth governments. Far from being a shallow trifling story with space/sci-fi spin, all elements are strong: an engaging original plot, deep themes/philosophies, and fascinating characters (including my new favorite fictional character Mycroft Holmes). The writing style is very different and fun to follow. A superb David vs Goliath climax. You should go check it out.
2. I, Claudius / Claudius the God by Robert Graves
During a break from sci-fi I read these two classic historical fiction novels (fiction - though they are actually quite factual). The richness of setting, characters, and schemes transports you into the streets and palaces of Rome's height. The everyday minutiae of Roman commoners to the epic battles of kings, emperors, and armies spanning across the known world of the time are covered in a convincing autobiographical manner. Deception, duty, love, madness, and power drive most players tragically amiss. In grand irony, the crippled and oft-abused Claudius, whom no one likes and has no aspirations but to avoid the intrigues of court life and live quietly, has the crown of emperor forcibly thrust upon him. In the position of ultimate power - absolute ruler of the known world - Claudius is trapped. Though he diligently strives to give the power back to the people and restore the Republic, fate forces him to reluctantly continue the tyranny. Tragic betrayals ultimately quench his noble and good heart, and he never finds respite from evil plotters. Intriguing connections between Claudius and his close friend King Herod are also explored.
3. Forever War / Forever Peace by Joe Haldeman
Sci-fi classics I read early this year. The books are unrelated except in themes. Intimate views from the perspective of troubled yet good-natured soldiers fighting in complicated and confusing battles. Many interesting themes on government, economics, military, and technology. Gripping stories.

My favorite videos

1. John Adams
Top-notch production quality and acting make it a thrill to learn more about the birth of our country and the people like John and Abigail Adams who made it happen. I wish I could have watched this when I was taking American History classes.
2. The Bridge on the River Kwai
Japanese soldiers force captured British and American soldiers to work as slaves under the harshest of conditions to build railroads and a large bridge. Do you attempt to hinder the enemy by doing lousy work? Non-cooperation brings horrible starvation and death to you and your fellow soldiers. Or, do you help the enemy and enjoy better food and treatment? The line between allies/friends/enemies blurs too far and then the movie ends with a most spectacular BANG!
3. Band of Brothers
We recently finished watching through this WW2 series. Like John Adams, this also has excellent production qualities with settings/costumes/props that are perfect. Though tragic and horrible, the stories from WW2 soldiers like those here are very worthwhile. And how thankful I am that I don't need to sit in a freezing foxhole in Bastogne with trees exploding everywhere. (It was also fun to recognize all the battle scenes from the Call of Duty game series.) (Note: you may find some content disagreeable)

My favorite music:

1. Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 Second Movement - Allegretto
I find it very enjoyable to follow Beethoven's simple motif throughout the piece. Recently, I found a solo piano version of Beethoven's symphonies (in a book from a thrift store!) and it is fun to play. If I ever play it well enough, I'll record it.
2. Amid the Cold of Winter
What a blast to make this with Vanessa! Though it may be hard to notice, the technical aspects of this album are much improved over our previous recordings. Any requests for songs for next year's album?
3. Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 First Movement - Allegro non troppo e molto maestoso
Tremendous moving thunderous melodies that almost make a frigid cold-hearted bloke like myself weep. Masterful music.

-Jefferson, signing off for 2009

Happy New Year's Eve

2009-12-31T12:24:00.000-08:00

Time for an update on my 101 goals. There are many goals that are in progress, and some that I may want to change, but so far, I've done quite a few goals.

Completed goals:
Goal #6--Make 5 meals in advance. I made enough chicken enchiladas to feed us for 8 meals. Hopefully this will prove helpful during the upcoming months of school, when time and motivation to cook are minimal.

Goal #34-label wedding scrapbook. This was much easier than I thought it would be, as there was not much to label. I mean, it's pretty obvious that a picture of us standing in front of the temple is "us in front of the temple" so I did not make any labels describing what was going on in the picture. Rather, I only labeled group pictures with who is pictured. As I was doing it, even this seemed a bit unneeded, because I doubt I will forget who our parents or siblings are. Maybe if someday one of our kids or grand kids looks at these pictures, though they'll recognize their relatives.

Goal #35--Compose or arrange a song. I arranged "I need Thee Every Hour" for us to play in church last Sunday. I relied heavily on an existing vocal solo arrangement by Sally deFord. I liked that there was a key change and a minor part, but I didn't give Jefferson enough time to learn the piano part. So he played mostly what was in the hymn book and I wrote some small interludes to connect one verse to another. Also, I had to write out a clarinet part, since it's in the key of B-flat, and not C. We recorded this song, too.

Goal #43--Read a Shakespeare play I've never learned about. On Christmas Eve we want to Half Price books and bought a family Christmas present of the complete works of Shakespeare. That night, we read "A Comedy of Errors." It was a light-hearted play about two sets of twins that were separated at as young children. One set of twins was master to the other set of twins, and the servants and masters kept running into the wrong twin. In the end, it's all sorted out--thank goodness!

Goal #90--Put new towel racks in bathroom. Yesterday at Costco, we saw a hotel style towel rack, bought it and Jefferson installed it. It looks great and is much more efficient in using the limited space we have in this condo--two very important considerations.

On my master list, completed goals will be bold and in-progress goals will be italicized.

Hope you all have a great New Year and that 2010 is wonderful all year long!

101 goals in 101 days, explained

2009-12-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

For the past few weeks, Jefferson and I have been talking about our "life plan" and when we would like to reach certain milestones in our life. From these discussions, I've come to realize that, other than finishing dental hygiene school, I do not have a very specific idea of my short-term goals and life in the next few years.

Enter 101 goals in 1001 days.

I learned about this type of project earlier this week. At first I was skeptical because if it's anything like making new year's resolutions, I won't be very good at following through with it. But what intrigued me was that this gave me a way to measure progress in things that I "would like to do someday" like run another marathon, or clean the window on my truck, or make Indian food. These are things I've wanted to try, but have never done because I did not have a plan before. And as my parents used to say, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."

My 1001 days starts today and will end September 15, 2012. I admit, I already went to the temple and did my visiting teaching this month, but I am still counting it. Check back often for updates on my progress. And if YOU decide to make your own list, let me know (see #28).

Merry Christmas!!

101 Goals in 1001 Days

2009-12-19T16:19:00.001-08:00

101 Goals in 1001 Days
Specified-event goals
1. Learn calculus-complete 10 chapters in the text book (0/10)
2. Make a new recipe every month (1/33)
a. December 2009-Breadsticks—LOVE THEM!
3. Watch all Star Wars movies (0/3)
4. Finish watching Star Trek movies (0/2)
5. Try 5 new vegetables (0/5)
6. Make 5 meals in advance (8/5)
a. 12/30/2009 made 16 enchiladas and froze them
7. Use crock pot once every two weeks during school so dinner’s ready when we get home (0/12)
8. Send 3 notes of appreciation (0/3)
9. Listen to cd’s I’ve never heard all the way through. get rid of ones I don’t want (22/66)
10. Clean out file cabinet, burn confidential papers yearly (0/3)
11. Have family home evening every week for a month (0/4)
12. Make 2 more Christmas albums (0/2)
13. Make a weekly menu for 12 weeks (1/12)
14. Visit teach all sisters with companion for 6 consecutive months (1/6)
15. Read conference ensign before the next general conference (0/6)
16. Attend the temple every month (1/33)
17. Have friends over once a month for 4 months in a row (1/4)
18. Go hiking 3 times with friends (0/3)
19. Update this list monthly (1/33)
20. Collect the 50 state quarters (7/50)

Unspecified multi-event goals
21. Earn my dental hygiene license
22. Be realistic: school is the #1 priority on this list for at least the next 6 months
23. Finish the cross-stitchery
24. Have Jefferson’s flying squirrel wardrobe phased out with fitted yet inexpensive clothes
25. Find an ancestor to do temple work for
26. Read the Bible, using the study guides as helps
27. Earn my Young women personal progress award as a leader
28. Inspire someone else to start his/her own list of 101 in1001
29. Find a job that fits me/my family
30. Obtain my bachelor’s degree
31. Make a quilt
32. Make an article of clothing that becomes part of my regular wardrobe
33. Complete level one in Spanish language software (ie Rosetta Stone)
34. Label wedding scrapbook—12/29/2009
35. Compose or arrange a song—12/2009 I need Thee Every Hour for clarinet and piano, adapted from Sally deFord
36. Repair or replace clothes with holes and stains
37. Stay cavity-free
a. Using new sonicare and rinsing with fluoride
38. Stay active during pregnancy
39. Earn money on a regular basis
40. Start my own business (ie a way to make money on the side, like an etsy shop)
41. Learn to play chess
42. Read a book by Charles Dickens
43. Read a Shakespeare play I’ve never learned about—done 12/24/09. Comedy of Errors
44. Complete a business class
45. Improve relationship with siblings
46. Learn to play a new instrument (trumpet/violin/guitar)
47. Improve piano skills to be able to play minuet in G and at least 5 hymns I cannot play now
48. Prepare for pregnancy to reduce complications
49. Do not buy junk, no matter how inexpensive it is
50. Set reasonable limits to how many toys, how much stuff our kids have-especially stuffed animals
51. lights out before 10pm during the week
52. Do not gain weight after pregnancy
53. Knit a potholder
54. Finish year’s supply of food storage
55. Save $50,000 more for a down payment
56. Have three months’ worth of living expenses in cash

One-event Goals
57. Eat dinner at the cooking school Portfolio Restaurant
58. Make Indian food
59. Host a party
60. Paint a picture
61. Rip cd’s/songs I want to keep
62. Host pizza-polusa
63. Donate hair to locks of love
64. Play 2nd movement of Mozart clarinet concerto in a real performance
65. Write a computer program
66. Clean window on back of truck cab
67. Fix “check engine” light on Honda
68. Fix truck speakers
69. Grow our family by at least one
70. Write a will
71. Attend a family reunion
72. Donate blood
73. Create one new tradition for our family
74. Hike Mt. St. Helens
75. Run another marathon that’s NOT on Sunday
76. Eliminate pile of sweaters that don’t fit in drawers (may turn into: buy another dresser or give away clothes we don’t want)
77. Draw and frame a picture
78. Increase Jefferson’s life insurance

Things to buy
79. Buy a red necklace
80. Buy a gun
81. Get concealed weapon permit
82. Buy a new instrument (trumpet/violin/guitar)
83. Buy a sewing machine
84. Buy a new camera
85. Buy a dehydrator

Home improvement
86. Repaint the entry
87. Finish the floor
88. Repaint the bathroom
89. Replace final door
90. Put new towel racks in bathroom
12/30/2009 Bought rack from Costco, Jeff installed it

Places to go
91. Go to the Zoo
92. Go on another vacation in Washington
93. Go to the symphony
94. Go to a play or opera
95. Tour the Washington state capitol
96. Go to the Bellevue art museum
97. Go to Seattle Aquarium
98. Go to Hawaii
99. Go backpacking for at least one night
100. Camp 3 times (at least)
101. Go on a double date

Christmas Baking

2009-12-18T22:46:00.000-08:00

Spent this evening making Christmas goodies (peanut butter blossoms, thumbprints and fudge) for upcoming holiday gatherings. Followed this with a rousing game of Japanese Chess, during which I mangaed to give Jefferson a few scares before I folded. Next time...

I married a model

2009-12-08T13:40:00.000-08:00

Cover of hanes magazine a few years ago

Picture from the cruise--I like mine better :)

Food and Sun

2009-12-04T21:22:00.000-08:00

For the past few months, my sister Hillary has been in Italy on an internship. The pictures that she posts include primarily food and architecture. Being thus inspired, in addition to my first taste earlier this year, I decided to try my hand at gnocchi. For those who do not know-since I didn't until earlier this year-this is a potato dumpling that you can put in sauce of you choice. The actual making of it was not hard, only time consuming. Since this was something I did on a whim, I didn't have all the stuff to make the fancy creamy suace I would have liked, so I had to resort to plain old spagetti sauce. I was pleased with the result, though it isn't necessarily photogenic.

Speaking of baking, almost every Sunday immediately after church, Jefferson and I make and eat cookie dough. Here he is enjoying a cookie and cookie dough sandwich-what a nut!

And, just for fun, here is a picture of the sunset a few weeks ago.

Times and Seasons

2009-12-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

We have enjoyed some festive events this Autumn. Here I am at the Arboritum during a break between sessions of General Conference. This was one of the few colorful trees in the Arboritum. I think we were still a little early for the full array of colors.

I thought this was a fun picture of the youth from my ward preparing for the ward halloween party.

Next is a picture of a classroom of 4th and 5th grade students that myself and three of my friends from school visited. We presented a lesson to them about toothbrushing and even had cultured bacteria from our own mouths and borrowed a microscope from my school to show them what the bacteria they always here about look like. It was a big project to prepare for, but it was a lot of fun for all of us and a big success.

Lastly here are some of my friends and one of my insturctors (with the curlers in her hair) on Halloween at school.

House of Delegates in Lake Chelan, WA

2009-12-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

In October, I went with my friend, Crystal, to Lake Chelan to represent my school and class at the Washington state dental hygiene house of delegates. It's where all the legal business of the profession takes place. While most of the day was apent in meetings, I did manage to sneak out in the morning to get some pictures of the beautiful golden hills and fall colors.

Here I am with Courtney, who is the first year student from my school. I wish Jefferson could have come and I didn't have to spend the beautiful day indoors. Still, it was nice to meet new people and get to know other better. A fun but fast weekend.

Ready for Christmas music?

2009-11-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

That's right - we've done it again. Perhaps you remember the break out sensational hit from last year.

Announcing the general availability of the second volume of Criddle Christmas Music:

With four new songs to help you get through the Holidays:

Download it now!
With work and school being crazy busy, this was a bit rushed and almost didn't finish, but we managed to pull it off somehow. What a fun family activity!
Will this new family Christmas tradition ever end?

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T07:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! So far, rain is keeping me from running my turkey trot. Maybe I'll brave the elements...In the meantime, I will blog. I am thankful for my life. Have any of you ever felt that you were growing and improving in ways that are hard to describe? That is how I have been feeling lately. Some attempts to describe this feeling are: feeling more reliant on my husband. He helps me everyday in real and meaningful ways, especially listening Well, this is proving to be harder than I thought, but suffice it to say that I am growing and learning. I'd say that these feelings are related to gaining experience and hopefully will turn into wisdom.

In other news, school and work continue to be the majority of our lives. I am at school for almost 10 hours everyday. The bright side is that I am spending the time practicing my skills, doing paper work, calling patients--which really doesn't take that much time--and so there's not too much school work to do at home usually. I have some great people in my class, too. School is lots of fun.

I am thankful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am thankful for my husband, my family and my friends. I'm thankful for my health, my ability to choose and for my mind. I'm thankful for our home, clothing, food, cars and many other luxuries. I'm thankful that today is a holiday and I can spend the next four days with Jefferson. Have a great Thanksgiving, everyone!

What does Jefferson do?

2009-11-08T08:54:00.000-08:00

Since our product is getting closer to completion, the shrouds of secrecy are beginning to lift and we're now allowed to discuss what we have been working on.

What I do for work

This recent post summarizes what I spend most of my time on. It is turning out very well and has the potential to radically change electronic software distribution models for rich client applications, especially for trial scenarios.

Camping in the Olympics

2009-11-01T09:46:00.000-08:00

On a whim, we decided to spend the last warm enough clear enough weekend to go camping at our favorite Olympic National Park. It is getting too cold/cloudy/rainy for adventures like this now that winter is here. So, to properly send off such a fabulous summer/adventure season, we packed up and boarded the ferry.

The key goals of the plan were to 1) watch sunset from the hike to Hurricane Hill 2) camp at the nearby Heart O' the Hills campground 3) wake up early enough to 4) watch the sunrise from Hurricane ridge visitor center and 5) race back to get to church services in time.

We had success with everything. The sunset was a little too cloudy, but it still threw interesting colors everywhere. It got really cold at night. My sleeping bag was plenty warm, but my exposed nose froze. I'll need to come up with a solution for that which does not involve suffocating.

The one big letdown for you fans is that I put way too much trust in the Auto-ISO of my cheap old camera and it made the wrong decision for just about every shot. It picked much too high ISO and many pictures came out very noisy with ruined colors. Some salvaged ones are here.
The images are still vivid in our memories at least.

From Olympic campout Oct 2009

doodling

2009-11-01T09:32:00.000-08:00

To get me through General conference as a kid, my parents would let me draw while it was going on. Getting the details right on Lamborghini's, spaceships, and various battle scenes would keep me behaved during the sessions.

In many respects I haven't grown up much.

Older people speaking slowly at a pulpit still does not capture my complete attention and I need to find something else to do to keep me from misbehaving. So, I got a book on how to draw flowers from the library and tried it out last general conference. See if you can match up these images with the source pictures. These are all from pictures we took at various gardens. enjoy

Sources:

No, we are not dead - just too busy livin'

2009-11-01T08:48:00.000-08:00

Apologies to the folk who, unaware of RSS reader conviniences, eagerly checked this blog daily only to be disappointed with lack of new content. We hope you've learned your lesson.

Don't assume we haven't been doing anything since the last post as the truth is quite the opposite with adventures every week(end). With Vanessa back in school for the busiest semester yet and me with big work deliverables coming up we spend the valuable free time we do have together and not writing posts. But since I get a free hour from daily savings switch this morning, I'll see if I can bring this blog up to date.

Some noteables from the rest of summer -
Earlier in the year we tried to hike to Lake Serene but had to turn back due to blocking snow on the trail and I forgot my hiking poles. We returned and made it all the way (just shy of 30 switchbacks), but unfortunately clouds blocked the best views this time. I guess we'll need to go back again next year.

From Rest of summer 2009

By recommendation of some friendly fellow hikers at Lake Serene, we hiked Mount Pilchuck the next week. It is a rather prominent peak with 360 degree views of the Cascade range and Puget Sound. Or, at least it would have such views if there was not a thick cloud all around it. The whole hike was in a thick fog expect for the very end which was a few dozen feet above the clouds. So, we had 360 degree views of clouds in every direction save for a few near rocks jutting out. I would have preferred views unobstructed by clouds, but it was still a great experience and somewhat surreal. We found a nice rock to sit on and eat lunch while looking across the endless expanse. A small fire lookout tops the mountain. The top is a steep pile of large rocks and it looks like the lookout as well as the rocks will tumble over with the next breeze. Cool place

From Rest of summer 2009

We were invited by some of Vanessa's aunts and uncles to get together in Lincoln City Oregon. It was a beautiful weekend and the food was superb. We played at the beach, toured the delicious Tillamook factory, and also went to a lighthouse on the coast.

From Rest of summer 2009

We have visited the gardens around here many times and enjoy seeing the variety of beautiful flowers. More pictures here

Oh and I guess we never posted about the best adventure of all this summer: the Alaska cruise! It was so much fun and we still think about it everyday. You probably have seen the pictures already from facebook. Here they are if you missed them

From Alaska Cruise 2009

Inside my head

2009-08-07T19:06:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time since I've written, and since neither of us have posted anything besides pictures and summaries from our weekend adventures. Well, this post will be blag-free (that's blog and brag mixed together, you can thank one of my siblings for that one).

I've been back in school now for almost a year. Next week is the end of my 4th quarter! I'll finish dental hygiene school June 2010. I must say, the more and more time that goes by in this program, the more I love dental hygiene. I am so happy to be able to teach people about improving their health, to see them making changes and taking control of their lives and to be gathering all kinds of information from some one just by looking in their mouth. One of my instructors likes to say that each mouth has a story, and that it's our job to read it and find out what the tissues are telling me. I love being in clinic and seeing my skills improve-how to handle the instruments, which ones to use, how to teach a 7-year-old about plaque and keep him still for a three hour appointment that ends with four sealants placed without the help of an assistant. Sounds corny when I write it and re-read it, but you know how good it feels when you find something that you genuinely enjoy doing and that you're good at? That's how I feel about dental hygiene.

Which leads me to my next point. This Summer I've had Thursdays and Fridays off from school, and have used lots of my time researching the health care reform. It started with an assignment to write to our state senators and representatives to include oral health care in the bill. Well, I am not an idiot, so I did an extensive amount of research trying to find out what EXACTLY is being proposed to find out if I wanted anything to do with the reform or not. I'll tell you, it is not easy to get the facts. I spent a few hours over several days looking at healthreform.gov before I finally decided that it's a bunch of hooey and was not really saying ANYTHING! Simple answer to my opinion: I am opposed to the reform.

All of this research has led me to some interesting sites. One that I like mostly because of the other links she posts is: redistrubtingknowledge.blogspot.com. This lady is from Seattle and really involved in going to and organizing rallies and protests in the area. In fact, I went to one a few weeks ago on a Friday during lunch time. I was nervous, but wanted to take a step out of my comfort zone and see what other people had to say. I met some great people who are not crazy, mad, yelling, loud protesters like I pictured. Unfortunately, I haven't been to a protest since, and really wonder at their efficacy anyway. Another site that I found yesterday is kirbytalk.com. He is also a local, and apparently has a talkshow every morning on AM570 from 5-9 am. I'll be checking him out more in the future.

I've been developing political opinions lately, which has been quite fun and fulfilling. Except for the fact that pretty much everything I see in the news is the polar opposite of what I would like to see happening. This is my chance to make a shameless plug for everyone who has not read it, to read Atlas Shrugged, by Ayn Rand. You will not regret it. Both Jefferson and myself would love to talk to anyone about it anytime.

In other news, my older brother is getting married tomorrow. I'm very happy for him and Megan, his almost-wife. I was recently inventorying our food storage and determined that we have about 4 months worth of food. Food storage is one of my favorite church activities. That and toll painting XD jk. I am preparing a lesson on organizing your home to present to my relief society sometime in the next few weeks. This should be fun because I haven't talked to any one from RS for months, since I serve in young womens. Anyway, I have been feeling quite out of touch with other ladies and hopefully this will make a difference. Then again, I have never in my life felt in touch with others. I guess even around church people I am different. I'm a pilgrim, I'm a stranger. But I have my husband. He is the best friend and support I could ever have, and I'm not just saying that to say it and be mushy. I also have my dental hygiene friends, my family and a precious few other friends. I'm content with that, and wonder if I really want any more or only think I do. I know that other people who read this feel or have felt the same way.

I went on a long walk yesterday, as I am want to do when I have tests to study for. I bring my notes with me and walk while I read and memorize. This has become a great way for me to exercise while doing school work. Also, I find it much easier to study while walking now than I do just sitting at home. While I was out yesterday, I found the blackberry jackpot. I stopped and ate a few, but unfortunately did not have anything to carry more home in. I'm planning to either walk there with Jefferson tomorrow or go back on my own sometime next week after finals are over. I love living in the Northwest! This has been then best summer I've had in a long time, and the weather has been fantastic. I'm looking forward with optimism to the winter, when hopefully our repair project will be going on, and to the coming year. Life is good, I have loads to be grateful for, I am happy with the work I've done to get where I am, and will keep working and making sustainable changes to keep moving closer and closer to perfection.

Panoramas from Paradise and sunrise from Sunrise

2009-07-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

I wasn’t so keen on going to work Friday. Weekends like this past are what I save up vacation days for anyways. So, we threw together some last minute plans for camping and hiking in Mt Rainier National Park and away we went Friday morning.

We were very lucky to snipe a first-come-first-serve camping spot at the Ohanapecosh campground in the Southeast corner of the park – there were many adventurers who came just a little later, only to be greeted with “Campground FULL” signs. The size, privacy, and convenience of our spot cannot be denied. After setting up camp, we then set out for fun.

The plan was to go from Ohanapecosh to Paradise. We’ve been to Rainier NP twice before, but have never stopped at Paradise. Unfortunately, the main road connecting the two had been washed away and we had to travel a lengthy detour. Knowing that Paradise would be crowded, we took our time approaching and did some hiking in the Longmire area. By early evening, we made it to Paradise and were pleased to see that the bulk of the crowds had departed.

From Rainier National Park 2009

We hiked up to Alta Vista and then Panorama Point. The wildflowers were extraordinary. On the left of the trail lie the massive Nisqually Glacier and the deep gorge it carved that runs right up the mountain. The setting sun lit up the scene and the glaciers beautifully. I would have stayed at the Panorama Point until the sun had completely disappeared, but we had to leave earlier to find our way through the back roads back to the campsite. Vanessa did a great job with all the food. There is not much better than relaxing in Rainier National Park eating Rainier cherries (the lord of all cherries).

The plan was to get up early and see the sunrise from the Sunrise area. Well, we couldn’t get up quite early enough for that, but the Sunrise area was still astoundingly magnificent.

From Rainier National Park 2009

I sure love living here.
Be sure to check out more pictures.

July update - more flowers and mountains

2009-07-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

No thoughtful writeup, just pictures for you today

We found this interesting flower(?) at the botanical garden

Fourth of July weekend, we hiked Bandera Mtn and also visited Mason lake

From Bandera Mtn/Mason Lake Hike July 2009

Yesterday, we conquered Mt Dickerman. This was perhaps the most strenuous day hike we've done so far. Views were worth it.

From Mt Dickerman Hike July 2009

Olympic June

2009-07-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the delay as this adventure was actually the first weekend of June. We made another day trip to the peninsula as soon as we heard that the Hood Canal Bridge was reopened.

Our first stop was the visitor center atop hurricane ridge. To our delight, a new surprise awaited us at this oft-visited spot. The clouds only rose to around 5000 feet, and as we broke through the thick rainy cloud bank (the visitors center/trails are at around 5300 feet), a brilliantly bright perfect sunny day greeted us.

As you scan the horizon, you see prominent peaks piercing the tempestuous stew of clouds, which hundreds of miles away flows into the blue sky.

Unfortunately, the trailhead parking was snowed out, so we had to add a few extra miles on our hike. It was worth it – I’ve never seen the Hurricane Hill trail so empty. We only saw a handful of other folks. We felt as though the majestic views were all for us alone.

Afterwards, we visited some new spots: Lake Mills, Elwha River, Madison falls, and some new scenic driving.

At work the next week, many wondered how I got sunburnt from a rainy Northwest weekend. You can imagine my grin as I explained how my weekend was perfectly sunny - above the clouds.

The delay of posting is that our aging camera couldn’t handle the beauty of it all. The brightness of the sky/clouds contrasting with the mountain tops and forests was too much for it and yielded us a slew of under/over-exposed images. The brights are too bright, and the darks are too dark - evidence of the weak dynamic range. So, I employed my amateur photo editing skillz and tried my best to fix them. I’m pretty happy with how they turned out. I didn’t add anything that was not there; I just messed with brightness/contrast/saturation/color balance/levels.
Before

After

More pictures here. They are all similar – clouds, blue sky, deep valleys, towering mountains, forests – but how could you ever bore of those? And if you don’t think the mountains are actually that blue, come visit and I’ll prove it to you.

Jury Duty

2009-06-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

Everyday this past week for me included a lengthy visit to the King County Superior Court Regional Justice Center in Kent, WA. Instead of daily solving software design problems, I was to sort out an escalated insurance claim dispute. I showed up for jury duty Monday morning and by that afternoon the case had started.

Queue to the “oh, what a drag, I hate jury duty sorry you had to go through it” comments. Also, queue to the “let’s rejoice for our wondrous blessing of living in a country where we can be selected to serve in the judiciary system” comments. Maybe neither of these professors has ever served on a jury.

Allow me to share my own comments and observations. (Now that the trial is over I can say anything I want)

Over a year ago I performed jury duty by sitting in a waiting room for two days doing nothing of importance (and yes, that was quite a drag). This time, almost everybody was chosen for a jury panel for a trial. My group had 32 potential jurors of which 13 must be selected and the rest excused back to the waiting room. The judge introduces the plaintiffs/defendants and then starts a discussion/QnA session with all the potential jurors, with the intent to locate those who would not be fair and impartial.

I thought I would be excused because I serve on the Home owners’ board and we are in the middle of lawsuit against two insurance companies. The judge and attorneys questioned me about this and determined that I could still be objective. I was disappointed in one potential juror who was very obviously trying to get the boot by spouting off a bunch of vitriolic nonsense and empty progressive rants about individuals versus large companies. What an embarrassment of a citizen, I thought, as the airhead strutted out of the court with her nose in a fashion rag.

With the 13 selected, the trial begins. Witnesses are brought forth and questioned. The cross-examinations are particularly interesting and at times intense. It may be preferable to be a juror with the burden of deciding someone’s fate than to be on the witness seat with sharp attorneys drilling you, throwing out objections, with the judge’s careful eye scrutinizing everything. I would say though that the whole thing went very professionally.

Deliberations took about 4 hours, spanned across two days. I really wanted to take all the evidence and facts presented and construct an undeniable logical proof for the best verdict, but the truth is that you as a juror do not have all the information necessary. Instead, you have to put it all together with imperfect information – and that can be tough for a numbers and logic guy like me who needs all the data. When witness testimony directly contradicts another witness, you have to decide which to believe. I was worried that jury deliberations might be scattered, illogical, and ineffective, however, I was glad to be proven wrong. All the fellow jurors were well-spoken, objective, insightful, and respectable despite the fact that there were some great arguments and debate going on. It was a pleasure reasoning with my fellows to reach a verdict we felt was right.

I will help my country by periodically serving as the most objective, fair, and impartial juror I can be. How about you?

Quick post

2009-06-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

I've spent the morning uploading pictures to facebook, but know that not all of you have an account, so here is a sample of what is there that's not here already in backwards chronilogical order
Our spinach and lettuce are being very productive. June 16

A sunset view in Goldendale, WA where we spent this past weekend, June 11-14

Goldendale Observatory

Stonehenge, 15 miles south of Goldendale overlooking Columbia River Gorge

Geometric Shadows at Stonehenge

Maryhill Art Museum, about 18 miles out of Goldendale

Multnomah falls in Oregon on the Columbia River Scenic Byway

More Multnomah

Bridal Veil falls, along same highway in OR

Huge stump in Elwha, Olympic National Park, WA. June 6th

Hurricaine Ridge, Olympic National Park WA

Hurricaine Ridge, Olympic National Park, WA.

More pictures from Goldendale and the gorge are in our "online photo gallery" link.

Bridal Veil Falls, WA-style

2009-05-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

While living in Utah, I would often ride my bike on the Provo river canyon trail (or whatever it was called) when the weekend was nice. That trail passes right in front of the Utah version of Bridal Veil Falls. Taking a break there to touch the cool water was very refreshing for a roasting sweaty bike rider.

This week, we decided to check out Washington’s Bridal Veil Falls. As with most of our other hikes, we didn’t know anything about it beforehand and I just pick it randomly from a map.

The forest part of the trail seemed different than those of our other hikes – many aspens and other deciduous trees were dominating instead of the evergreens. I’ll have to come back in autumn when the colors change.

Eventually, the trail forks to either a Bridal Veil Falls viewpoint or a much longer switchback-riddled climb to Lake Serene. Since we didn’t have my hiking poles with us, we decided to save my knees and instead go to the viewpoint. After a brief climb, we unfortunately discovered that the trail was impassable due to snow. So we went back and instead walked along the start of the Lake Serene trail and got some great views of some of the many falls before turning back.

We intend on returning with my hiking poles sometime so we can make it all the way to Lake Serene. Many people on the trail mentioned how beautiful it was and how it truly lives up to its name – a smooth alpine lake surrounded by incredibly sheer and tall granite cliffs. We’ll be back.

More pictures at the picture album

3 years of the Evergreen

2009-05-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

This past week brought with it the completion of our third year in Bellevue. Although we come from starkly differing origins (Texas/Nevada), we delightfully consider Washington to be our home now. Enjoy these three lists of three’s -

Some loves we have here in WA:
• Biking to work
• Limitless quality outdoor activities
• My sweet job

Disappointments
• Pikes place market
• Washington state flag. Who would want to fly that ugly thing around? I'm keeping my Texas flag.
• Condo Repair bill

3 things we’re looking forward to here
• Finishing the horrible floor project
• Summer adventure every week(end)
• Departing for the Alaska cruise!

Gratitude

2009-04-25T07:16:00.001-07:00

This week has been a roller coaster for me: not getting enough sleep, spending hours doing "business" (phone calls to patients, emails, printing stuff from blackboard) for school rather than getting assignments done, deep cleaning two quadrants in one appointment-let me tell you, that's exhausting!, worrying about this weird rash I have, not having the time or energy to clean the house before Friday when Katie and Anthony were coming over, not getting my part of the group project done, having the weight of a talk for sacrament meeting tomorrow looming in front of me, and not preparing for the midterms and research paper I have due next week-ahhhh!

I could not have gotten though this week without the support of my gem of a husband. He left me a tender message on Thursday when I did the deep cleanings and went to the doctor about my rash. Incidentally, the rash is pitoryasis rosea, which is of unknow cause and will go away on it's own in a few weeks. On Friday I got out of class a bit early, so I was planning to clean the house and start dinner then before our friends came over but when I got home, everything was done! How he had time to do that, I did not know, but he had cleaned the whole house. I realize how much I needed his help, when I thought I had to do all of this stuff myself, after all, it's my school work, my social planning to invite people over, my rash. I get emotional just thinking about it. He is my best firend, and continues to amaze me with how well he knows how to take care of me. Thank you!!

Birthday Hike

2009-04-20T08:12:00.000-07:00

View from "Rocky outcropping #3" Usually we stop at the first (here dotted with people) or second one.

Since one day of celebration just wasn't enough, and since it was high time to try a new hike, we hit the trails this past Saturday for a birthday hike. We were hoping to hike a 10 mile trail from Rattlesnake Lake off of exit 32 to Snoqualmie Point off of exit 27. The first part of this hike is not new to us, but the 8 miles beyond Rattlesnake ridge were new. Unfortunately, around mile 3 or 4 the trail was way too snowy for us and we wimped out. There were other people hiking it, but I was having a really hard time keeping my balance and not slipping. So yet again we were defeated by the snowy trails. (In February, we tried to hike Mt. Si and had to turn around because of slippery steep slopes--dan-ger-ous!) We'll have to try this again in a few months or get come crampons. We had a great time anyway and certainly felt the burn yesterday morning. You can see more pictures here.

At our stopping spot to eat lunch before turning around. There wasn't even anywhere to sit :(

My Birthday

2009-04-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

So I turned 25 on last Wednesday! Yeah! Most of the day was pretty normal-just spent at school. When I was driving home I got a call from our cousin Katie, who invited us to go to the Mariner's game with her and her husband Anthony. We went and had a great time. I hadn't been to a baseball game for over 10 years-yeah I know I'm getting old-but it's the one sport that I can easily follow with out having to have the rules explained to me. It was a beautiful night and the Mariner's won, there was a grand slam and 400th home run of Ken Griffey Jr. hit.
Me and Katie with the Moose

Us at the game

I also got a package from my parents, which had a really pretty new skit and sweater, a sudoku handheld game and loads of candy. Awesome!!
They did a really good job taping it shut

A pitcure of my birthday bounty.
Thank you everyone for your well wishes, notes, cards and calls. I had a very nice birthday.

John Adams

2009-04-12T08:16:00.000-07:00

Last night we finished watching the HBO mini-series about John Adams based on the book by David McCullough. I highly recommend it. Not only did it tell a fabulous story of this Founding Father that I personally didn't know much about except his name, it also was a great recreation of the time period. John Adams was a man passionate about doing what is right and was not shy about speaking his mind, even to the big-wigs in France and England.

Most other movies that I've seen set in this era glamorize the living conditions or don't accurately portray all the details. But this movie was different. No one wore make-up (except as the characters grew older to make the actors look old); the men who were at the Continental Congress were sweating as the real Founding Fathers were that summer of 1776. There was mud and smoke everywhere, and they showed the people doing a lot of the day to day chores that were part of life back then. So, the production was great, as was the story.

I feel like I have a much better understanding of what price was paid secure the freedom found in the United States of America. I hope to find more sources of American History that are not afraid to tell the story how it was and not try to romanticize the facts. I want the facts and the truth and feel like "John Adams" provides just that.

Flower time

2009-04-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

From Bellevue Botanical Garden Friday:

From the Arboritum Thursday:

Good Changes

2009-04-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

Sunlight-a very welcome change!

About four weeks ago, I went running on a whim. I didn't expect to do this regularly because of the time it takes away from studying. That first day I ran 3 miles and felt like it was going to kill me. I am happy to report that since then I have been able to go running regularly. Last Friday I ran five miles and felt great! I have been keeping track of my routes using mapmyrun.com. It took me a little while to familiraize myself with the site and I still don't like everything about it, but I can track mileage and get an idea of how many calories I burned. Since that first run in March I have logged over 50 miles and 4,000 calories. Let's hope it starts showing soon :)

Another good change is that our weather is finally improving. Jeff actually got a bit pink from being in the sun yesterday while we played aerobe. I'm suprised to note how much more lively I feel now that the sun is out and the weather is a bit warmer.

In floor news, I am convinced that I want to put tile in the area where we had the wood and keep the living room just how it is with carpet. Jefferson is warming up to the idea of tile, but we still have loads of research to do including getting high quality tile and pricing the tile and the labor to install it. I am invisioning a tile that is terra cotta colored.

My first week back at school went really well. The schedule this quarter is very nice so far: All but two Mondays are off, as are Thursday and Friday afternoons, and various Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons off too. This is because we do things for some classes in small groups and the groups rotate weeks they have class. Works for me!

For pictures, these are from the Bellevue Botanical Garden from Friday.

Photo Shoot

2009-03-23T09:02:00.000-07:00

Our friend Emily posted about photo editing, mostly cropping, last week. This got Jeff inspired to try his hand at it. Here's what we came up with Friday night.

Original

Color-changed so I don't look jaundiced

B&W crop

Sepia crop/my album cover

The good, the bad and the ugly

2009-03-23T08:50:00.000-07:00

The good: I finished Winter quarter so I don't have to study anymore until next week

The bad: Some of you know that a few weeks ago our water heater leaked causing a big water spot on the lady's ceiling downstairs. While we have that problem fixed, since then our wooden floor in our hallway has been getting more and more buckeled. It finally got to the point where we accepted that we'll have to replace the wood. Here is the current status of that project.

The ugly: Last weekend we scored on Craigslist by finding this beauty!

I know, it's an eyesore, but very functional which was our main objective. Maybe someday when we're rich and don't have all sorts of house projects and assessments we can buy a desk compsed of matching wood. But for now I am more than satisfied with this.

Tooth Anatomy 101

2009-03-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

For those of you (parents) who have been requesting new blog posts, here is the best I can do. These are the teeth that I have carved so far this quarter. I have one more to go which I will have to do this week. Hope you like it!

this is my favorite creation--it's a first mandibular premolar.

These are some others: Maxillary central incisor, maxillary canine, maxillary first premolar and aforepictured mandibular first premolar.

And my nemisis: maxillary first molar attempts 1, 2 and 3. You can't see in the pictures, but the root on the back kept breaking off. The third one is almost done, finally!

Annual pass to Seattle Space Needle for two $29.99

2009-02-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

We thought this was too good a deal to pass up. Wanted to pass the word along. Happy Valentine's Day <3

One step back, two steps forward

2009-02-01T18:42:00.001-08:00

Recently we have enjoyed doing a lot of baking together. Now anyone who knows me knows that I have had my fair share of baking catastrophes. There was the time in high school when I was making ginger bread for my friends and I to make candy houses that I added salt to instead of ginger. Lesson: don't put salt in a jar that says "ginger" on it. Then there have been numerous times when I double a recipe and forget to add or double an ingredient. That never goes over well. Most recently I have added to my legacy with these beauties:

Burned blueberry muffins :( I got distracted by playing Lego Star Wars with Jefferson and didn't even register that the timer went off though it was sitting right next to me. I was able to redeem myself the next day by making:

Cheese bread and

Blueberry Buckle-find recipe here. We loved loved loved both of these foods-in fact we ate cheese bread toast for dinner every night this week followed by a nice helping of blueberry buckle topped with Tillimook Marionberry ice cream. That was decadent!

Cheese bread recipe is from "Taste of Home" cookbook:

prep=20 min+rising bake 350* for 35 min + cooling

2 cups all-purpose flour

2T sugar

1 package (1/4 ounce or 2 1/4 teaspoons) yeaste

1/4 tsp onion powder (didn't have so I used garlic powder)

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1 cup milk

2 T butter

1 egg

1/2 cornmeal (didn't have so I just added more flour)

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

additional cornmeal

1. Combine 1-1/2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, onion powder, salt and pepper. In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter to 120-130*F Add to dry ingredients. Beat until moistened. Add egg. beat on low for 30 sec, then on high for 3 min.

2. Stir in cornmeal and remaining flour. Stir in cheese-batter will be thick. Do not knead. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 min.

3. Stir dough down. Grease 9x5x3 in loaf pan and sprinkle with additional cornmeal (or flour) Spoon batter into prepared pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 min.

4. bake at 350* for 35-40 min or until golden brown. Cool for 10 min. Viola!! Please let me know what you think if you try either recipe. Until next time, so long.

Bill and Jolena got hitched

2009-01-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

(my dad, middle sis Hillary, Bill the Groom, Jolena the Bride, my mom and youngerst sis Miriam)

I know most of our fans have seen these pictures on facebook, but the occasion is still worthy of a blog post. My baby brother got married last weekend in SLC temple! We flew in the night before and had a wonderful time with all the friends and family who attended.

Me with youngest sister Miriam

All the Ashman kids-Hillary, me, Bill, Vince and Miriam

After their wedding

One of my trendy photography experiments

We were happy to be able to hook up with Jeff's family who is in the area. This is Leanna, Jon and Crystal, who I haven't seen since their wedding over 2 years ago. We had a lot of fun with you guys! Bill and Jolena are a beautiful couple. We are so happy for you guys and loved being at your wedding.

Chasing Waterfalls

2009-01-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

This past week western Washington has gotten a lot of rain, as well as flooding in the surrounding areas. Because of that we decided to visit two near by waterfalls. First was Snoqualmie falls. It's mostly a "drive there and look at it" waterfall, but very beautiful.

Second was Twin Falls in North Bend. It's a hike getting to Twin Falls, but well worth it yesterday as we had the entire place to ourselves and it wasn't even raining.Pictured here is the lower fall of Twin Falls.

A very fun outing after a week that has had a few less-than-fun times :)

Trip Pics

2009-01-04T11:49:00.000-08:00

After that thought-provoking entry by Jefferson, I feel like anything I write would seem trite. So here is minimal description to some of our pictures from our Christmas vacation. We spent a week in Henderson, minus a short trip to Arizona to welcome my Grandma home from her mission. Hence the varied locations.

Jolena Jones, future sis-in-law, Hillary and me at Red Rock outside Vegas

Detail at Red Rock

More Red Rock

The gorgeous quilt my mom made for us!

Driving by Lake Mead

Me with my new niece Storey-I love her!

Making lemonade with fresh picked Arizona lemons-delish!

The great rocket van we saw at Church

ASU auditorium designed by Frank Lloyd Wright

We had a grand time, of course, and were so glad to be able to get on a flight out of Seattle, but that's a different story that I don't feel like telling right now...

Best of '08 Awards

2009-01-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

2008 has been so much fun for our family! I'd like to list out some of my favorites in case you think you share the same tastes and judgement as I.

My Favorite Weekend Adventures:
1. October Olympics Trip
Why #1? - Brilliantly beautiful day, almost no other people, refreshing fall temperatures, breathtaking views, and of course - sipping rich hot chocolate at the Lake Crescent lodge. Still our favorite place to go
2. Mt St Helens Off-Season
Why? - Sunniest day we had in April, no crowds, fresh mountain air, dazzling views
3. Conconully, WA
Why? - Out in the middle of nowhere, no other people, no cell coverage, no computers; just you, the mountains and hills, a serene lake, a good book, and nights full of stars and the Milky Way

My Favorite Reads:
1. Atlas Shrugged
Why #1? - The most thought-provoking book (fiction) I have ever read, the sharpest dialog, deep characters, epic story, a masterpiece of literature. Frighteningly relevant (read it then see what you think about government bail-outs :) ), incredibly rich (even at 1200+ pages you want it to keep going), and moving (and that's coming from me, a guy with a heart of stone and ice). Even if you don't agree with everything in the book, it will make you think like no other and you will be emboldened to strengthen your own ideas and values. Read it and better yourself
2. Rendezvous with Rama
Why? - Still my favorite fiction book of all time. We got it from the library for Vanessa so I read it again. No stupid drama, no stupid characters, no hackneyed story elements, but just pure, clean completely original science fiction that will put your imagination on overdrive and make you want to be an explorer. I first read this sometime during highschool and it has solidified my desires to be a spaceman. I don't recommend the rest of the series though.
3. The Fountainhead
Why? - The little sibling to Atlas Shrugged, I would recommend reading this first. This book will instill courage to stand and fight for what you know to be true and right no matter what opposition comes your way. Learn how to not compromise with anything that is wrong and how to completely disregard worthless popular opinion. You'll also end up with a surprising interest and appreciation for architecture.

My Favorite Movies:
1. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Why #1? - Even though there is a special place in my heart for all things Japanese, this film can stand on its own without my bias. Amazing and compelling original story, beautiful animation, and a nice dose of science fiction. You've never seen anything like this film
2. The Third Man
Why? - A masterpiece of film noir, rich setting (post WW2 Vienna), intriguing mystery, great acting, eery soundtrack
3. Castle in the Sky
Why? - (If you're wondering, yes we did rent a bunch on Japanese films this year - that's why they have two entries on this top three list) Completely original, incredible animation, fun and exciting. Unique works like this are such a breath of fresh air after wading though droves of uninspired drudge typical of Hollywood.

My Favorite Music:
1. Rachmaninoff's Prelude in B-flat major (Op. 23 No. 2)
Why #1? - Bold and brilliant romantic piece that I have added to my "learn to play before I die" list. I don't have enough music critiquing capability to go any deeper, but I know that I love this song.
2. Happy Golden Days
Why? - I'll never forget the fun we had making this first mini-album. Whenever I listen to it I am encouraged to continue making music and eventually compose.
3. Tchaikovsky's "The Carnival (February)" from The Seasons for piano, Op. 37
Why? - Again, lack of music critique skills keep me from going deep, but I know that I enjoy this song very much.

My Favorite Games:
1. Crysis
Why #1? - Make no mistake - when I built my new computer at beginning of 2008, this was the program I built it for. A technological feat with graphics that will drop the jaws of even people who don't know anything about computer games. A thrilling adventure across a gorgeous tropical island filled with North Koreans and aliens (!?). Expansions and amazingly high-quality community maps will keep me playing this for years.
2. Oblivion (GOTY ed., PC)
Why? - This game had been on my list for a while, awaiting a powerful enough computer to run it. So after finishing Crysis, I dived into this one on my new machine. Expansive, detailed, vast open world to explore, compelling story and character development, beautiful graphics. Strong voice cast includes Boromir and Captain Picard :)
3. BioShock (PC)
Why? - Incredible atmosphere, original, deliciously spooky, great plot, rich soundtrack. An unforgettable experience under the ocean in the ruins of a failed utopia. A work of art. Could have been even better if it were not "console-ized"

These are all purely my opinions and I urge you to check any of these favorites out if they have caught your interest. I'd love to discuss these favorites with anyone who agrees/disagrees.

Jefferson

Snow pics

2008-12-20T17:25:00.000-08:00

This is the snow at it's highest, Thursday afternoon.

Frosty crystals, taken by Jeff.

Snow Beauty Queen

My jokester husband :)

Fresh

2008-12-20T16:20:00.000-08:00

It was high tme for a new look to our blog. I like it! In other news, sorry about missing day 5 and 6 of the "Winter Break" series. Day 5 I was too sick to blog and day 6 it got too late. We have been enjoying the snow days: Thursday and Friday Jeff took off work and we tromped through the snow. On one outing we tromped to his office, not for him to work, but to retrieve a box of goodies from one of his co-workers. This could be the last post from us for a while, as our power might go out tonight due to a wind storm and on Monday we are flying to Vegas provided the weather doesn't ruin the flight plans. This morning we double checked that we were prepared to last through the storm, if we do have to stay here for a few days without power, and we feel like we'll be just fine. Unfortunately, our ward Christmas party was cancelled tonight, and we still don't know about church tomorrow. But we can be happy staying at home together.

Oops...

2008-12-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

I was too hastey in condemning the weathermen in my post yeasterday. Check out how much snow we got just overnight! And there is more coming down.

Now to replan my day, since I didn't get the carpet cleaner yet...

Winter break day 4--or--The "Snow" Day

2008-12-17T20:52:00.000-08:00

People in Seattle make way too big a deal out of the weather. The schools were CLOSED today because the forecast said snow. We didn't get a single flake. In Las Vegas my sister went to school and the day has seen 6+ inches of snow for them. What's wrong with this picture?

Anyway, this was a lovely day for me. I started out by braving the elements for a nice walk up a really big hill near our house. Then my visiting teachers came while I was in the shower (talk about miscomminutaing on the times!), but everything turned out just fine :) Then I warily made my way to Costco, fearing any moment that it would start snowing. I figured if I had to be stuck somewhere, Costco would be a pretty good place to choose, with all their free samples and big screen tv's and other cool stuff. But fortunately, I didn't have to spend the rest of the day in a big warehouse full of strangers. And it seemed that the snow scared every one off, as there were still parking spots available and I didn't leave there angry because of crowdedness.

Back at home I read ("Eat, Pray, Love" got three strikes for slowness and bad language, so it's out. Now I'm onto "Screwtape Letters" to renew faith in the book club I've been following). Then made my goodie trays to take to the Ladies I visit teach. In light of me planning to clean the carpets tomorrow, I moved the smallish movable furniture and vacuumed thoroughly. Then made a library run again and picked up Darling Jeff, made a quick dinner, visited one of the Ladies, then went to mutual. I had a lot of fun Christmas Caroling with them tonight, we passed out plates of cookies and sang 2 songs per house. And all with no snow, thankfully. Oh, and my grades are in and All I'll sAy is I Am very pleAsed with the results. All the hArd work pAid off!!!

Winter Break-Day 3---or---The Day I Left the House

2008-12-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

Yes, I left the house today. Just to make a library run then pick up Jeff from work. But still, it's something. My adventures of today weren't very adventurous, but still enjoyable and actually suprised me at how fast they made the day pass. Again, I started my post-Jefferson day with 40 min of work out videos, and I'm feeling it! Then did some house-keeping and phone calls for various and sundry appointments--visiting teaching, tire rotation, checking on an order placed before Thanksgiving-- you know the drill. The majority of the afternoon was spent in the kitchen, as it and the living room were the rooms being heated today. I baked banana bread, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies and no-bake cookies to make plates of goodies for my visiting teachees. Then finished "Speaker for the Dead"(I liked it) and started my next book, "Eat, Pray, Love" (so far I like it) while eating lunch. After washing all the dished from my bak-a-thon I ventured out for my dear husband. We then ate the last of our enchiladas-thank goodness!- and watched WALL-E. What a tender movie! And since I didn't post these yet, here are the photos we took after we got home from J's work party Friday night. Doesn't Jefferson look handsome!!

Winter Break-day 2

2008-12-15T17:42:00.000-08:00

Ever have one of those days where you don't go outside at all? That's what I did today!! :) After Jefferson went to work, I did 40 minutes of yoga/workout videos. Then, realizing that we left the heater on the the projector room all night so it was already nice and toasty, I gathered up all of my daily necessities--pen and paper, books, water bottle and cell phone-- and shut the door to the rest of our frozen house. I only left this room to get lunch and use the bathroom. I loved it!! First I worked a little on my most recent scene for getting food storage, this time that we will actually rotate through and not have old cans of food sitting around for years. Then I watched Anne of Green Gables, since I can't very well consider myself a female in the Criddle family without having watched it once. I've read the book several times, and the movie was just about as good. Then I read "Speaker for the Dead," the sequel to "Ender's Game" which I think is a much more interesting book the Ender's. Now Jeff is home and we are cooking a pizza to eat while watching the last installment of "The Stand." We've got to stay in this room with the projector since the rest of our house is 49 degrees!!

Winter Break-day one

2008-12-12T15:14:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was my last day of Fall quarter! Yeah!! I had a great time this quarter but I am thankful for this break. Now that it's here and I'm starting to relax a bit, I feel how much I need it. Plus, now I'm really getting excited to see family and two future sisters-in-law next week!!!!!!!!!!!! For day 1 of break, I spent the morning the the kitchen making these beauties:

They are meat sauce to be used in lasagne at some future date. As each one makes an 8x8 pan, we've got just about a year's worth, I'd say :)

This evening Jefferson and I will be high-classing it at the Microsoft Office party at the Space Needle. Rewind to last night and I made this little number (no pun intended) for a kid our ward who's birthday is today.

This was an experiment for me since rice krispies treats are really fluid when they first come out of the pot, but turned out perfect! And since this is a pretty boring blog to look at, here are some old pictures: