D is for Deer whisperer

Yesterday I was awoke by my mom telling me that dad needed help! She was running around like she had lost her brain saying she had to make some phone calls, and for me to put on some warm clothes and head outside to help dad hold the deer! I had NO IDEA what mom was talking about? Was she sleep walking, why is dad holding a deer? Regardless, I got out of bed, put on some heavy sweats and a sweatshirt and walked outside. I looked up the hill and dad (sure enough) was holding a deer! It was hard on his shoulder to keep the deer calm but he was waiting for mom to call Idaho Department of Fish and Game. I walked up to the deer, and she immediately started licking my hand! It was the cutest thing ever! She wasn't scared at all, but she didn't want to be held in one place. Once mom got a hold of Fish and Game, they told us to go ahead and let her go. The asked us not to feed her but to kind of watch to make sure she wanders off. Well, she didn't go far. She then went to our neighbors and followed him around. She was not afraid of people, cars or the road. Bad bad bad news for the little one. Finally fish and game called back and asked if she was still around, when mom said "yes" they decided they would come pick her up as she was already domesticated. Sad to see baby deer go, she was fun for a day:) I then helped dad haul the motorcycles to town with my truck:) All in all a good day outside!

Never Grow Up

The best thing about having a sister was that I always had a friend.
~Cali Rae Turner

A sister is defined as:
a female sibling is called a sister. In most societies throughout the world, siblings usually grow up together and spend a good deal of their childhood socializing with one another. This genetic and physical closeness may be marked by the development of strong emotional bond such as love or enmity.

I realized this week how much I depend on my sister! I have always looked up and admired my sister, but I never realized that I confide in her in so many ways. I love the time we get to spend together, and it never seems to be quite enough. I always think of the many late nights we would stay up together in our bed playing games when we were supposed to be sleeping. All the many jokes and laughs we shared together. The memories are endless. I know growing up I used to beg for my own room. There was nothing I wanted more then to be able to have a sleep over where my sister didn't have to spend the night in the room too...But I now couldn't thank my parents enough for making us share a bedroom together - even when there were spare bedrooms available. It raised my sister and I to be best friends. As I grew older and my sister went off to college, I realized, I never want to grow up! When I'm feeling down, or helpless, I know that my sister is just a phone call away. She has done so much for me in our times together, that it would take a lifetime to repay her. The life-lessons and encouragement she gives me cannot be replaced in any other way. I was so excited when she got engaged to my Brother-in-law Andrew, although I knew I would be giving her away. I am so glad my sister hasn't neglected me after she got married. I love her with all my heart, and am so glad that I not only have the best sister in the world, but the best friend in the world!

Best friends never grow apart:)

Preparation for Winter

It's the time of year again. When my dad spends tireless hours outside preparing our property for winter. A lot of the time, I am unable to help him due to my work schedule. This particular afternoon I was able to spend a few hours helping him remove the boat lift covers off the lifts. It was the coldest experience of the fall season thus far:)

yes, that's right! I was in the water....in October.

Maneuvering the ladder in waist deep water, in flip flops was a feat all in itself. My shoe kept getting stuck in the clay, and it didn't help that the ladder was SO TOP HEAVY!

I was ground support in the water while dad undead the strings on the lift covers.

It wasn't the most stable ground.

attempting to raise the ladder up high enough to reach the top!

Trying to take down the ladder so dad could pick it up onto the dock!


It was freezing cold, but I am glad I was able to help mom and dad. I can't imagine how dad would have taken down the lift-cover on his own. The cold throws dad's head wacky - therefore I don't think he could have gotten in the cold temperatures and still be able to think clearly. It wasn't until I got out of the water, and changed for work that I realized, we have hip waiters, and a wet suit. I guess that would have sucked all the fun out of the experience though! haha

A week with my sister and her family:)

GUESS WHO CAME TO TOWN!!!!!

That's right! David came to visit:) My sister purchased tickets to a concert as an early Christmas present for her mother-in-law and our mother. The concert was Celtic Thunder, in Spokane at the Performing Arts Center. The concert was on a Tuesday, so Stephanie and Andrew drove up on Sunday evening:)

Being that Sunday was Halloween, Stephanie pulled over before getting into town and put the kids in their Halloween costumes to trick-or-treat Grandma and Grandpa Noble. They also made a special stop to see Aunt Deanna at work! They were too adorable. Little Hannah Bear didn't know what to think about her puppy costume. She kept pulling at the snout on top of her head! David on the other hand......

Love being a little Tiger! He enjoyed dressing up and even saying TRICK-OR-TREAT!

The days went way too fast. On Tuesday afternoon Stephanie wanted to go for a 4wheeler ride to fine a good spot to take Fall-family photos. We bundled up and went up the mountain!

The only time you'll ever see us NOT looking alike!

Afternoon Ride!

A view of the bay in the fall. We truly reside in the most beautiful place on the earth:)

David and Hannah in the car. After a couple short days in Sandpoint, we continued the family vacation in Rexburg for little Hannah's first birthday party, and a Collin Raye concert on the BYU-I campus. It was such a fun road-trip, and time well spent with family. I'm glad I was able to get a week break from work, now I'm back to reality for the next 8 weeks in preparation to save for school:)

Clip from The Social Network

This week I had the opportunity to watch the new movie about Facebook. It's titled the Social Network. Not only was the screen play impeccable, but the acting was incredible. I was so intrigued the entire movie how Mark Zuckerburg and Eduardo Saverin are portrayed. I give this film 9 thumbs up for entertainment value. It is crazy to me how much has gone on between two friends who were sitting in their dorm room, on a Tuesday night, drunk...when the first little inklings to facebook came to mind...the first little idea what is now a multi-million dollar market. The internet world is booming and the phrase "Facebook me" has become very common in society. Today's younger generation struggles to communicate face to face as each individual relies on the virtual world to hold a conversation. The brains behind the facebook operation are so incredibly genius and this film takes you through the journey and history behind not only the dot-com website, but also the lives of those who created the the site. Just thought I might share my thoughts and opinions regarding this movie! I mean after-all I am a fairly credible movie critic with 5 years experience!

SCARYWOOD!

Last weekend some coworkers, friends and I went to Silverwoood (Scarywood). It was packed! We purchased our tickets online - which I defiantly recommend as lines to buy tickets was fifty times longer then anyone wanted to wait in the rain and cold. We lucked out on weather. It had rained all day so it was wet and cold, but stopped raining nearly an hour before we entered the park, and ceased the entire night! So fortunate. Right when we entered the park, we waited an hour in line for the train ride. It was a disappointment to me. There were a lot of older individuals and children on our car. The show they put on was similar to the rated R movie Zombieland. Although semi-humorous it was just foul. I didn't realize that scary had to be supported by a poor choice in language and conduct. It wasn't even pg-13 appropriate, and the show/action wasn't even all that great. So I guess if one is entertained by cursing words and inappropriate body language then sure, it was GREAT! The scariest part of the train ride as an explosive they set off over the bridge, and all the guns they were shooting off. They painted on a lot of the seats on the train too [pictured above] to scare you before even taking off.

we were really fortunate on lines! In fact, the longest line we waited in (after the train) was for food! Who would have thought. It was pretty chilly out, but we all huddled together and bundled up and we were fine:) They had another attraction called Blood Bayou, which was the ice rink all decked out as a haunted house. It is rumored that Silverwood Theme Park put millions of dollars into this haunted experience. It was SOOOO GOOD! Creepiest thing I've been through to date by far! It even beat the Haunted Mill in Rexburg! It was very well done, I was so frightened and we only waited in line for about 45 minutes!

The employee's of the park were all dressed up! This is dead Elvis, he was pretty funny. Another section of the park (which you couldn't go around) Was dead clowns. They followed you around and were insanely creepy! They had very good costumes and were pretty well trained in how to terrify someone.

We had to keep entertained while waiting in line. If I were one of the individuals who were waiting around us, I would have been thoroughly creeped out by our conversations. We went from talking about Federal Prison to Disney movies? Who does that!

Adam, Lexi, Brandon, Deanna, Amanda, Robby:) (Not pictured: Spencer)

This guy came up behind me and tried to scare us. Unfortunately for him, I saw him coming - and it was well lit. Leave it to lexi to capture a quick picture cause this was not posed or planned!

Me, Lexi, and Arod on the scrambler. By far my favorite ride YEAR ROUND:)

Waiting in line for Thunder Canyon. The story behind this haunted maze was a girl-scouts bus that was captured in the wilderness and anyone the police sent to get the children - never come back. It was great, up until I heard....the chainsaw. I'm terrified of chainsaws. I froze and fell to the ground. Robby literally picked me up and pushed me the through the ending. The chainsaw guy saw how terrified I was of him - so he chased after me. I took off running as fast as I could! Robby then turned around and pushed the guy back from chasing after me. The dude had the nerve to say "get out of the way!" to which Robby responded, "Leave her alone!" It was so scary!

We then had enough time to end the night at Timber Terror. Oh my goodness, I'm so glad we left this for last. It was awesome! What they did was the turned the cars on the roller-coaster to go BACKWARDS! You have no idea where your going and all you can see is what's behind you! We waited in line for nearly an hour, then were able to get on the ride! Spencer and I were ride buddies and decided to ride in the very very front car, the one that drops first. It appeared like all the cars were going to fall on top of us as we went down the steep decline! AHHHHH! MOST THRILLING THING I'VE DONE! SO INTENSE!


Overall I rate Scarywood a +10. It was very worth our while, and worth the $25 to get in. In fact, not only do you get admission in to the park that evening but you also get a voucher for a free admission in May. Therefore you enjoy 2 trips to Silverwood, for the price of one! Not a bad deal at all:) Good clean fall fun!

Who Am I At 21

WHO AM I YOU ASK?

so much has changed in my life over the past few years - it's easy to forget who I really am...So I was at work tonight, and I got into a really really intense conversation with my coworkers (Travis and Hudson) and a customer for like 45 minutes. We talked about who we are and what we value.

How I see it, confidence is an attractive trait. I may not be the skinniest girl, or the most athletic or beautiful - but I know who I am, and I'm confident in my own self-worth, therefore I rock it!

In relationships, jealous is a very poisonous emotion. Those who are jealous tend to push the ones they love away. I feel I'm at a point in my life where I'm comfortable with myself enough to know the importance and value of trust and loyalty. I don't feel like I'm the jealous and or dishonest type!

I have become very independent over the past couple years. It is only fair to say that growing up has really helped me appreciate not only my family and friendships I have created - but myself. It's beautiful to me to be able to say that "I love myself" therefore, becoming ready to accept the love of others. I feel a level of respect is not only expected and learned in an individual, but also earned. I continue to strive to earn the respect of my family and peers. I attempt to be a better family member and friend on a daily basis. Also, I have been taking a stand in local issues, paying attention to politics and local issues all the while trying my best to do my part as an active-community member.

I dyed my hair recently (picture shown above), and it turned out much darker then intended. Although this is not a real excuse, I just felt the need for change (which I do often when life/work gets stressful). My outward appearance has changed, but I am still the same ole' me:) Trying my best to consistently self improve and help others in need when possible!

the ability to change is a measurable trait

So much has been going on lately here in the little town of Sandpoint, ID. Especially in my life. I feel like I have been on a roller-coaster. Only it hasn't been a fun one where I throw my hands in the air and carelessly scream. It's more like one those roller-coasters that makes you sick. Where you hit your head so hard on the head rest that you get one of those headaches that knocks you out for days. This particular ride makes your stomach churn and you count down the seconds/minutes/hours/days/weeks till it's over. This roller-coaster has been challenging, and to put it lightly (without saying too much) pretty much a complete and utterly miserable catastrophe...

let' s just title my roller-coaster:
The reality of my job

This is the true account of what I have been dealing with, without disclosing too much information. Really it's frustration more than anything! I started working in the theater industry about 5 years ago. I am coming up on my 5 year anniversary this Halloween! Wow time flies by so fast. OK, so here we go - I will break it down.

Late September:
The owners of the company introduced changes in my work facility by a swift and rapid change in management. I was to remain the assistant manager, but the way the schedule was to be done would change my daily duties drastically.

Instead of managing shifts and taking on responsibilities that you would commonly see in management positions in other businesses, I was now a glorified box office associate. I went from the top, twelve steps backwards to the bottom. All the while attempting to slowly train the new manager in the new facility. Being that this theater is run different then the other theaters this individual has worked at, I was valuable and a key asset... for like 3 days.

Early October:
The changes had effected all my coworkers. But my attitude has been that life isn't always fair, and we deal with whatever is thrown at us. I started to dread going to work. Not because of who I was working with or for, but my job was unrewarding. It is like being given a bowl of candy as a kid, and told you can only sit and look at it. You can't even ask questions regarding the candy and why you cannot partake of it! This is my job in a nut-shell.

Then we get robbed. No idea who did it or where the money is now, but it is irritating that you can't trust anyone! I am still working with someone who is dishonest. I cannot fathom why any of the other 4 who it could potentially be, would do such a thing. I think due to my religious background I always see the light in each individual I come in contact with. I never want to think that I can't trust my friends and/or coworkers. The total dollar amount is somewhere around the mid 12,000 and the investigation is still on-going. Last night the investigating officer came in and asked me if I would verbally agree to a polygraph. They need an agreement from each of the 5 who had safe combination's and keys to move forward in the case. Although, she did say some of us may not be tested...but we all have to agree in order for the prosecutors office to order the polygraphs. ugh, why does stuff like this even happen? Can't everyone just be trustworthy in all their endeavors. I guess not.

Present time:
Work is a horrible, miserable, no good, very bad time. I never get excited to go in, and I usually can't wait to clock off. I feel like I'm 16 again with all the drama that goes on downstairs, when I have become accustomed to working upstairs. My position has become a confusing game of telephone and I'm always tired and stressed out. I'm beside myself. I go back to school in January and I can hold on that long but I can't say that it's a pleasant experience. In fact, I have never been so disrespected and belittled in a managerial setting in my life. Without saying too much, all I can say is . . . wow:(

But on a much lighter note, I get to see my sister in a couple weeks! I can't wait...it's a much needed break away from reality. I know in life you won't always like your coworkers or get along with your boss - but really...?

One Reason I love Fall

There is nothing like a day in down-town Sandpoint, ID carving pumpkins in the park!

We met up at Yokes early Monday morning to pick out some pumpkins from the Yokes pumpkin patch! We then went to the park to begin carving. It was so much fun to be outdoors and enjoy the crisp fall air!

Apparently carving pumpkins brings out the intensity in me.

The group, Amanda Rodriguez, Robby Holt, Brandon Orr, Tabitha Long, Deanna Noble and Alex Cole.

poking holes in my pumpin where i'm going to cut!

Me with my masterpiece

Alex and I

Trying not to make a mistake:)

It's a ghost, coming out of a headstone, with a creepy tree and moon on the right. In case you couldn't tell:)

The mess in the garbage can in the park from 6 pumpkins!

I think we could be in some fall magazine!

OH FALL HOW .....

It was an absolutely gorgeous day. After finishing our pumpkins we walked around the park and took some silly pictures:) Then we decided we were hungry we so we walked to Alex's parents restaurant (Mr. Sub) and ate some sandwiches! It was so much fun to walk around on such a beautiful day. I couldn't ask for better friends and a more exciting adventure. When we went to drop off everyone at their cars at the theater we all had to go to the bathroom. Following a potty break we went to leave and Tabitha started having a seizure. Brandon, Arod and I held Tabitha's head and hand and helped her through it. I called her father who was headed to town to pick her up. When he arrived, we helped her to the car, got her stuff out of her car, and sad farewell! It was really hard for all of us to watch Tabitha be in so much pain and struggle, I felt horrible. Today Tabitha is feeling much better and resting! We love you Tabitha!!!

Following the theater I went to Grandma and Grandpas to help them with a problem with their phone line! After talking with them a bit they wanted to see my pumpkin. I brought it in from my truck to show them, and they were delighted. I decided (since i had the battery candles with me) to leave it on their porch for the neighborhood to enjoy. Grandma was so excited! It looks so adorable all lit up, and needless to say, Grandma and Grandpa are ready for TRICK-OR-TREATERS!!!!

A-Rod's Birthday

It's October again! Which means it Amanda Rodriguez ( a coworker of mine) will celebrate her birthday! Last year the girls from work went to Spokane to have dinner and go dancing...this year we decided to do a little more low key. Amanda's sister was in town and got a hotel room in CDA. We left Sandpoint directly after work on Saturday, and headed towards a night on the town:) We stopped to go shopping before going to our hotel room:) After checking in, we got ready for dinner, and headed to Olive Garden. Probably the most entertaining meal I have ever sat through, I have never ate so much pasta in my whole life! After olive garden we got ice cream at Safeway, and went to the hotel room. I died Amanda and her sisters hair, and we talked away the night. I think we finally went to sleep around 4 am. We woke up around 9:45 and went to Denny's for breakfast. It was such a fun girls weekend and I'm so glad I get to spend every birthday with Amanda:) She's a sweetheart!

The weekend checkoff sheet!

a-rod and I getting ready

The makeover I gave Tabitha!

back in the car!

Pictures at the park

A stop at the mall!


So much fun with my coworkers:)

Alaska Reunion 2010

Welcome to the Alaska Reunion 2010, in Post Falls Idaho.

Joy Raby flew into Spokane Friday evening, and I drove down to Kaynie's apartment right after work. That evening we went to dinner at Red Robin and came home to talk about our lives and get all caught up. Kaynie and I naturally stayed up real late talking about school, work, guys the works. In the morning we woke up and picked up Nicole Attridge from her apartment in Spokane and headed to the airport to wait for the arrival of Kiara! After lunch at dicks, we went up Southhill to Mainto park. It was a beautiful day - not to hot not too cold! We took the opportunity to make sure and get a bunch of pictures of us all together. We were able to drive around the south hill and look at the beautiful homes, and dream of the day that we are in a position to own such a home.

Later we went to riverfront park to relax and walk around! We took the time to also be children and ride the marry-go-round! Such a fun day with a fun group of girls:) Later that night Chris and Carson Mills arrived with Carissa from Okanogan! We ordered pizza and just laid low at the apartment playing games and goofing around:)

looking at pictures of the day:)

Girls day out

Climbing trees!

smelling the flowers:) (rose garden manito park)

Riding the Marry-Go-Round

Chinese Garden:)

Dicks for lunch!

Listening to the Bell Tower

largest wagon:)

Spokane Falls

Home:)


Sunday morning we woke up and all got ready for church, I was so tired, as we had to rotate 6 people through the bathroom and I volunteered to be ONE of the first to rotate in...Being up late, and getting up early - takes a toll on me! After church we all dressed up in our matching Post Falls tee-shirts and walked to the park just down the road from Kaynie's apartment. We were able to play on the toys and walk around the falls! I actually lost my phone (which late was stolen) at the park...So frustrating! Chris and Kiara walked all over the park multiple times in attempt to help me find it...we never did:(

(Left to Right) Joy Raby, Deanna Noble, Kaynie Nelson, Carson Mills, Chris Mills, Kiara Parkinson, Carissa Mahon.

Just us girls!

Playing on the toys:)

Kaynie and I!

Kiara and I:)

Making sure to get my Sunday nap after church!

Carson being a flirt.

all dressed up in our Sunday-best.


It was such a fun weekend! Every time I get together with my friends I met up in Alaska in 2008, I always come away with the feeling that I NEED TO GET BACK UP THERE! I am always so uplifted and happy:) They truly bring out my true colors and I love each and everyone of them. I'm glad I was able to go down there for the weekend to spend some much needed time away from work:)