Few things in life...

My family (parents, two brothers and a sister) will be joining me for Christmas on the East Coast! My excitement to see them all again can barely be contained!!!

I have always loved Christmas and therefore wanted to share the Merkley Family's version of the "12 Days of Christmas":

12 - Grandkids visiting, plus two more, plus two on the way, plus four that couldn't make it..... What!? The song is for "12 days of Christmas"!
11 - Children Singing (I couldn't remember the original one)!
10 - Original Siblings!
9 - Paintball Warriors!
8 - Conversations Going!
7 - "Oh My Hearts!"
6 - Black Friday Shoppers!
5 - Minutes Late...... per person!
4 - Trailer's Parkin'!
3 - Minutes of Hot Water!
2 - Wrestler's Wrestling! (No, Kari did not win!)
All for ONE incredible time!

Dumb Full Moon...

I always would hear stories of how a full moon could affect an individual - I didn't believe that... Until working here.

I can always tell when we are getting close to a full moon because the residents are easily agitated or just weird events take place.

For example - December 2, 2009 - Full Moon. This is what happened to me:

* Came home from Utah and had a very dead battery in my car - no idea why!
* Co-worker quit on the spot - packed up and left - now I am covering her job as well as mine.
* Went to pick up Erin and Drew at the airport hit a pot-hole so hard that it dented my tire rim and I could literally hear the air escaping my tire.

So, this month we have a Blue Moon - 2nd Full Moon in one month. I am thinking a "mental health day" will be hitting me around that same time. Dumb Full Moon!!!!

Utah - My Home

The time came and flew by as I went home for my little vacation! I cried a little bit on the plane ride home... I was really sad not to be able to stay longer, but the tears dried up as the airline showed the movie "The Time Traveler's Wife." I was excited because I read the book and wanted to see the movie!

Here is a quick recap of my amazing time in Utah! I will have to do these in a couple of posts, since I couldn't probably type a novel about all the fun laughs and good memories!!

I fell asleep on the first leg of my trip, but almost smacked the guy sitting next to me when I jerked awake. On the second leg of my trip, I jerked awake and must have had a scared look on my face because the lady sitting next to me asked me if I was alright. My sister, Mel, picked me up late Thursday night and wasn't too mad when I couldn't even keep my eyes open to chat it up.

Friday dawned a beautiful Utah morning with fresh air and I was excited because I was meeting friends for lunch and then it was off to see "NEW MOON!" Kari, Cassie, Mel and myself were geared up and ready to see the movie... I must say that although I didn't like the second book at all - I LOVED the movie! I thought that the actors did a great job and the reasons why I didn't like the book were small parts in the movie. It would say that it this is a must see and buy!! :)

We found out in the middle of the movie that Cami was coming home from her mission, which meant that all of my siblings would be together for Thanksgiving! I couldn't believe how lucky I was to have them all in the same place.

I was able to meet up with my old highschool friends for lunch and we chatted about where life had taken us and just had a great time catching up! I decided that it was time for me to chop off my hair (it was too long) so it was cut and colored.... I LOVE it!! :)

Cami came home and in true Merkley fashion, I was about two minutes too late! She was already there and I about walked right past her yelling at my other sister that we weren't late! Ha ha!

Thanksgiving was great, we had about 72 people all gathering and munching at the Tridell church. We had all of my siblings, spouses, kids + Aunt and Uncle's kids, their spouses and grandchildren + my other Aunt and Uncle with my Aunt's mother and brothers. TONS OF PEOPLE!!!! And that just made it all the more fun and crazy! My cousin Stephanie (with a couple of additions from my father) decorated the place as cute as it could be!

I ended up snoozing through my alarm and my sister trying to wake me up, so I was late for Black Friday madness! I ended up getting up around 5:30 and scrambling around to get everything together so I could join in the fun. It was a lot of fun to shop, eat breakfast, and just be with five of my siblings!

I didn't realize how much I missed Utah and it's beautiful mountains until I watched them disappear behind me. I guess I will have to visit more often!! :)

FIRSTS!

These are my firsts. If I tag you it means I want to know yours. Copy and paste this note into your blog, delete my answers and fill yours in. Tag me back and anyone else whose "firsts" you want to know about...

1. Who was your FIRST prom date?
Never went to Prom - - Hey, no tears. Ha ha!

2. Do you still talk to your FIRST love?
Nope - haven't in years.

3. Who was your FIRST boss?
That would be my parents at Grub Box, unless it was my first real paying job which was Thelma M.

4. What was your FIRST job?
Well, kinda tricky... I was paid a dollar for every bucket of curly fries I made at Grub Box. I also was over getting pickles (could be why I don't like them to this day) and cleaning the meat cutting room (still dislike the smell of chlorine). But I could my first "real" paying job as milking cows - 4.5 years!

5. What was your FIRST car?
The first one I purchased was a 90-something Grand Am.

6. Who was the FIRST person to text you today?
Brian S. - he was scheduling a meeting with Bishop.

7. Who is the FIRST person you thought of this morning?
My Dad, I am really excited to see him!

8. Who was your FIRST grade teacher?
Miss Frank - I don't think she liked me.

9. Where did you go on your FIRST ride on an airplane?
San Francisco with Erin! We stayed in a HUGE mansion and had a ton of fun!!

10. Who was your FIRST best friend & do you still talk?
Chelsie B. - we do!

11. Where was your FIRST sleep over?
It was Desiree and Shorty's house! Pretty sure we stayed up all night listening to "Waterfalls" by TLC... Those were the good times!

12. Who was the first person you talked to today?
Molly, roommate

13. Whose wedding were you in the FIRST time?
Just in a line? Kari's. In the temple? Logan's.

14. What was the FIRST thing you did this morning?
Thought if I could get away with calling in sick to work - it's payroll day.

15. What was the FIRST concert you ever went to?
Dixie Chicks with my sister's and Calley.

16. FIRST tattoo?
Not my style--never gonna happen!

17. FIRST piercing?
My ears. Thought a couple of times what a tongue ring would feel like! :)

18. FIRST foreign country you went to?
Australia

19. FIRST movie you remember seeing?
First one I remember was Little Mermaid with Cassie C. and Katie D.

20. When was your FIRST detention?
I would have DIED if I had gotten detention!!

21. When was your FIRST kiss?
The one I count as my "first" was when I was 15.5... I was ALMOST 16.

22. Who was your FIRST roommate?
My room roommate was Marci B. but I also had three other awesome roommates at Old Farm - Marcie P, Megan P and Julia D, with Megan G as an honorary member!

23. If you had one wish, what would it be?
Really, is this question about a "FIRST"... I will say that I would love the ability to move an object with my mind. I always thought that would be so handy.

24. What is something you would learn if you had the chance?
I think a couple of people just randomly through these questions in here!
Ballet - I have always loved to dance and would have loved to learn ballet...

25. Did you marry the FIRST person to ask for your hand in marriage?
Ha ha! Well, we all know that is a NO! ;)

26. What was the FIRST sport that you were involved in?
That would be church basketball until I was moved to be the cheerleader because I was considered a "liability." I went home and looked that word up because I didn't know what the coach meant.

27. What were the FIRST lessons you ever took?
It is a toss-up between voice and tap... I remember both happening around the same time. Mom, do you know?

28. What is the FIRST thing you do when you get home?
Get the mail! It's a habit that I haven't been able to break. It is the first thing I think of when I get off work. Weird, huh!?

29. Who do you think will be the FIRST person to post this in return?
I would say Melanie or Katie

Well, there is a little bit of my "firsts"! Hope you enjoyed...

I am coming home to Utah in TWO days!!! I think my boss is ready to drive me to the airport if I don't hush up about going home!

Thankful for:

My sister listed things that she is thankful for and I thought it was a great idea! I am going to only list ten because this list could go on FOREVER!!

1) I am thankful for a great car - it has been so dependable and good to me.
2) I am thankful for my VT SC, she knows exactly what I need to hear and is hilarious!
3) I am thankful for great roommates, they really put up with some of my crazy ideas.
4) I am thankful for such a large and loving family - seriously, I love it!!!
5) I am thankful for my friends from highschool, looking back we have been through a lot together and I am glad we are still in touch!
6) I am thankful for my religion for the guidance and joy that it brings into my life.
7) I am thankful for my residents who are constantly teaching me patience, understanding, and showing me that you really end up back in highschool when you get older - oh the drama!
8) I am thankful for the freedoms I enjoy and the men and women who gave the greatest sacrifice so I could continue to enjoy them.
9) I am thankful for technology, I love that I can call anyone in the middle of the woods or video chat with my parents (at my sis's house).
10) I am thankful for loving parents who are still teaching me many lessons of growing up, loving all and forgiving me when I forget what time zone I live in! :)

Just a reminder to all - SIX days until the mountain of Utah are in my view!!

Dear Blog

I have found that I am really glad that I started a blog. I have enjoyed reading some of the old entries and seeing the comments by my friends and family.

Things have been really hard at work and home lately and not being allowed to talk about either is enough to drive a person insane. This is where a person who has a blog has a bit of an advantage - I can say what needs to be said and no one interrupts!

It has been rainy and cold out here lately - I actually turned on my heater last night! I haven't been sleeping well; therefore, I have been doing a lot of random reading, watching movies, blogging, work, etc. It is at times like this I am grateful I don't have a husband that I can annoy or wake-up... Ringing a bell - Melanie?

I come home in 6 days!!! :)

Court TV - not really!

Monday was my first experience in a court room. I went to face the man that decided driving while drunk was a good idea - that was until he met my car!

I was a little nervous as I found a parking spot and walked into the courthouse. I had a little bit of a laugh as I was nervous and I wasn't the person on trial. I arrived about twenty minutes before the subpeona stated the trial would start. I watched as people entered and exited the courtroom next door and then the elevator door opened (for what seemed like the twentieth time) and he walked out.

I admit I was a little worried that I wouldn't recognize the guy that hit me, but as soon as he walked off the elevator I remembered everything. My hands started feeling a little clammy and my heart started beating a little faster. Let me clarify that I wasn't scared he was going to attack, I just was surprised at the emotions that arose when I saw him.

The time finally came when we were allowed into the courtroom and I made my way to the front to introduce myself to the attorney per her request. I found a seat and then the circus began! I listened as one by one cases were brought before the judge and they listened to their fate. I hid a laugh as the judge seriously asked why one girl had her license suspended eight (8) times - I was trying to listening extremely hard for her reason but couldn't hear! I wanted to hear the answer to that question! I continued to listen for another two hours before the attorney representing Mr. Drunk Driver approached me.

Mr. Attorny asked if I could point out Mr. Drunk Driver and I stated that I could and described where he was sitting in the courtroom. He then asked some details about the incident and informed me that this may not be going to trial today. I took my seat and a 15 minute recess was called. Mr. Attorney asked if I still lived at my old address and I informed him I had moved. Mr. Attorney then asked where I worked, I began to be a little uncomfortable with this questioning as the gentleman that hit me was sitting two rows back and Mr. Attorney was asking me these questions from across the room.

Mr. Attorney asked again and I gave him the cross streets. He mentioned that he was heading to this place called Knollwood to see his mother. I couldn't believe what a small world I was living in - seriously!! The attorney for Mr. Drunk Driver has a mother who is a resident where I work! That was a little weird for me!

After sitting in the court room for 2.5 hours, I found out that I will be going back again. The arresting officer wasn't present due to falling off a bridge and breaking her back - OUCH! Therefore, the trial has been rescheduled and I will be back to testify at a later date...

Count Down!!

I can barely contain my excitement! I am coming home in 11 days!!!

I can't wait to catch up with my friends and family in person instead of email or phone calls. I love DC, but I am a little homesick! So I hope everyone rests up and gets ready for late nights of cards, guesstures, and talking because I AM COMING HOME!!!

Scared for my life!!!

Sweat dripped down my face as fear paralyzed my entire body from escaping. I could feel its many eyes watching the pulse in my neck and it thirsted for my blood! I couldn't scream! No sound was escaping my throat, it felt like my mouth was as dry as the hot desert. I could hear the cars and others outside my window, but no one realized the danger of the situation I was in. It was all up to me! Quick as lightening I flew out of my bed, grabbed a shoe, and searched for the predaceous vermin that thought I would give in!

It was at that time, I looked down and realized that I wasn't wearing the pajamas I had on a second ago. In fact, my bedspread was different from the one I just ripped off the bed from my flight. And most mysterious was the fact that my room a little bit messier than I remembered... Then it hit me!

I had a NIGHTMARE! A nightmare so real, I still had the urge to run for my life once I was awake. I hate that!! So, I climbed over the clothes on my bed (don't worry they are clean, sorta), scanned the walls for anything creepy or crawly, checked the time - 2:46 AM... Grumbled and fell back asleep!

It's that time again! YES!

I love this time of year! I finally allow myself to listen to Christmas Music the day after Halloween, even though I could and sometimes do listen to it all year round! For those of you who are having a fit right now because I just said that - CHILL!

First off, can anyone NAME a Thanksgiving song?? Besides a couple of hymns! That is what I thought!

Christmas songs are about being together and being home. It celebrates what I consider to be the true "Spirit of the Season" which doesn't start after Thanksgiving, it is a part of Thanksgiving! We are giving thanks and singing praises to the person who has literally given us everything!!

So, I am giving you my standard rule for those who may ride in my car or hear my music playing... After October 31, I will listen to Christmas Music and usually sing right along, regardless if I am on-key or not. So... no apologies, just deal! As I stated before - this is my FAVORITE time of the year!

Here is a picture of my father playing the organ last year at Christmas! It is so much fun to have my dad either play the piano or organ and have my siblings join in on a couple traditional christmas songs or hymns... It is so nice that we almost forget he started playing before 6:00 AM!! :)
P.S. I will be heading to Utah in approximately 16 days!!! I can't wait to see friends, family and the mountains!

Servant - Me??

I misread my job title instead of "Administrative Assistant" as I thought - it is actually "Servant."

At least that is what I was informed I was today. Yes, my resident called me her "servant" as I was helping her write a complaint. I simply asked for more details specifically what the person actually said to her and she informed me that she doesn't like talking to the servants! Hmm... Yep, that will help me make sure that this problem is solved a little bit faster!

After finishing my notes from the conversation I went back to my desk and sat there for a minute... I recounted what the resident said to my co-worker and we both just sat there stunned that someone felt that way about us. I informed one of my bosses of the incorrect title and asked when the corrected business cards would arrive. She informed me that because I did so much, I should be promoted to LEAD Servant! Hmm... Wonder if that comes with a pay raise??

This week I will keep repeating to myself: I love my job... I love my job... I love my job.

Happy Birthday Mother!!!

I thank my Heavenly Father everyday for giving me such an understanding and loving mother. In a recent conversation someone asked if I was loved enough as a child (long story) and I quickly replied that I was!

My mother made sure that I knew how much she loved me! I loved sitting next to my mom on the couch and having her play with my hair or rub my back! I remember all the times I was sick Mom would bring me my favorite icecream or yogurt. My friends LOVED to come to our house for sleepovers and just to hang out because I have the coolest parents ever!

I won't ever forget the dress that Mom made for Homecoming. I don't remember ever feeling so pretty in my life! And my mother was there the very next morning drying my tears after learning that some fabrics aren't suppose to be ironed (although I heard some giggles escaping her during that tearful experience). Mothers just know how to make everything better! :)

Mother, I hope and pray everyday that I can at least be half the mother that you have been to me! I LOVE YOU!

Your child #7 - Taci Beth

Alzheimer's Walk

A couple of weeks ago I was able to participate in the 2009 Alzheimer's Walk. Words cannot express the feeling I felt that cold morning. There were 2,400 walkers that signed-up, but only 1/3 showed up due to the cold and wet weather. I will admit that I sorta tried to talk Erin (who brought Alesa) out of actually walking, just get the t-shirts and leave. After listening to the story of a 53 year-old with early on-set Alzheimer's my attitude changed.

I thought of "my" residents and what they must be experiencing. I thought of a resident who always asked me when her mother would pick her up and if I had talked to her. I was reminded of another resident who is slowly forgetting how to walk. I realized that I should forget about myself!! I was there because Alzheimer's is an UGLY disease that needs to be stopped! I was there in support of the research to find a cure for this disease! I was there not for myself but for my resident!!!

My attitude changed at that point! I left "me" behind at the start line and "WALKED TO END ALZHEIMERS!"

I pushed Alesa, with Erin following behind, through the slow walkers and made little goals to reach the final three mile FINISH line! There were tears in my eyes as I looked at the fellow walkers and saw the "in loving memory of" signs they wore bearing the name of a relative or friend. This was my second walk and it won't be my last! I want to thank all those who donated for me individually and my team!! We did GREAT!

Chicken, yes that is me!

Okay, so I have been having nights of lost sleep and deep contemplation and I realized that I just need a break. A break from watching my now former crush make moves on my friend... Am I a chicken? Yes?? Don't get me wrong, I love the two of them and wish them the best in whatever happens.

But I just can't watch it right now.

I am a chicken and my feelings are still close to the surface. Is that wrong? I have tried since the time I was fourteen to figure out how some girls can just rapidly change their feelings for someone... It is still a mystery! For me, I am just going to back out and take a breather!

Maybe I will go for a drive and then watch a ton of war movies! That works as well!! :)

Hiding...

Yes, I am hiding... I think, for right now, I like the idea of being a hermit.

So, my dear friends, please forgive me.

Halloween

Halloween is coming in just a couple of weeks... ugh! I haven't really been a fan of this holiday even as a kid. I was eleven when I had the best time on this weird holiday of knocking on complete strangers doors and asking for candy. In true pre-teen spirit, I left the house dressed as a princess ran to a friends house across the street and changed. What did I change into?? Well, let's just say that I am extremely embarrassed to admit that!

Needless to say, for that night my friend's mother drove us in the wagon to the golf course houses (best place for all the good candy) and I was walking on cloud nine! :)

Fast forward sixteen years and here I am. Only this time I can't walk out as a princess (too old) and won't even mention the other costume! So, what does a 27 year-old dress up for at Halloween?? In the previous years, I have always hidden away or gone to parties where costumes weren't allowed. This year I have to worry about my residents and a DANCE! That's right, a dance where all the costumes are amazing!! Serious thought goes into some of those costumes all year - - it's that crazy out here!!!

If you have any ideas - feel free to pass them along!

Congrats!

Happy Anniversary to Logan and Cassie!

Cassie, thanks for being able to put up with Logan these past two years - we all know how difficult he can be!! Ha ha!

Second Chance

Two years ago, I was given a second chance on life.... Literally.

It was the day before my brother Logan's wedding and I decided it was time to get a haircut. I had taken the day off of work to help with the final preparations and spend as much time with my family as possible. Of course, the first step for me was to have my hair cut and styled by my friend Anya. The morning started out typical and like a good girl I ate a healthy breakfast of Captain Crunch and took my medicine.

I arrived at Anya's salon a little early and so I waited in my newly purchased car until she arrived. It was then that I noticed that my chin felt a little funny and upon looking in the mirror could actually see my pulse in my chin. I thought that was a little odd but wasn't too worried. Anya arrived and proceeded to give my hair a nice little choppity-chop!

As my hair was cut shorter, my face literally began to swell shut. Anya kept asking me if I should go to the pharmacy across the street and buy the medicine... I told her I would wait until my hair was finished. I watched as best as I could through swollen eyes as my hands, eyes, mouth and eventually my tongue began to swell shut. It was then I realized something wasn't right. I told Anya that my tongue was swelling and that I needed to go and get the medication NOW!

We arrived at the pharmacy where there was only one really old pharmacist on a phone call. We waited at the counter so we could ask what was the fastest medication I could take to help the swelling go down... He looked over a couple of times, but the phone call was taking forever!! I remember a couple of other people in the store really looking at me and I couldn't figure out why. All of the sudden a wave of dizziness came over me and I ran to a bench before I passed out. Anya was on the phone with my mother and they agreed to take me to the nearest Instacare which was a couple of miles away.

Anya helped me out to the car as I could barely see through my extremely swollen eyelids. We drove approximately .125 miles and I started to feel sick, Anya pulled over and it was a false alarm. She started to pull onto the road again and I yanked the door open and pretty much fell out as I didn't want to get anything on my new car. I remember laying on the ground and couldn't understand why Anya wouldn't let me just lay there. I also remember getting mad at the people who just passed us by because Anya was crying and I didn't have the strength to tell her it was going to be okay. I will never forget Anya saying, "Taci, I just don't know what to do." It was a very scared and lost voice and I remember crying as I prayed that I would have the strength to show her it was okay and I was fine. Eventually I was able to climb back into the car and we made it to the Instacare.

We walked inside and I marched (well in my head I marched) to the front counter and without looking up the nurse asked why I was there. I politely informed her that I thought I was having an allergic reaction, she looked up and from what I could see her face was priceless! She immediately called the nurse and said to take me in the back and started yelling for the doctor. I went in and sat down, the doctor came in and everyone just started running around and looking at the hives which had apparently traveled all over me. I started feeling sick again and they administered the standard medication. The Doctor was yelling that he needed more medication and needed it yesterday!! It's kinda funny looking back. Such a funny guy with a plaid shirt...

Anya was great through the entire ordeal, she patted my leg and I remember her giving them as much information as she could. My parents showed up and where able to give my medical background to the doctors and I was so grateful to have them there. The ambulance was called as the swelling in my mouth hadn't gone down and off I went. As I was being wheeled out the backdoor that the nurses and doctor all stood to the sides grabbing my hands or rubbing my arm wishing me well. I thought they were overreacting a bit at this point, but I was in and out of consciousness so whatever!

In the ambulance, I remember guys with shaved heads and they kept pumping my chest. I tried to tell them that I was pretty sure my heart was still beating but couldn't speak. I arrived at the hospital and was wheeled right into an operating room where they were going to cut open my throat to let air in. I don't remember anything after the ambulance ride, but I am trying to remember what my mom told me. My father and Andrew gave me a blessing and when the doctor did one last check he found some improvement in my condition. Therefore, no need to have any surgery performed! Thank heavens!!!

I had to stay in the hospital for the few more hours and my father stayed with me the entire time. I awoke to the sounds of crinkling paper and turned to see my father eating gummy bears Lindy brought me because he didn't leave even to grab dinner. The doctor showed up and I realized there really are Dr. McDreamy's in the real world. I was informed by Dr. McDreamy that I shouldn't mess with death. I giggled and agreed. He said it wasn't a joke - that even ten seconds later and I may not have made it. Hmm.... Interesting... I informed him that I had no idea what was going on at the time but would pay attention in the future. I was given the okay to leave and climbed back into my car... Then I saw it! I finally saw my face after some of the swelling had gone down. HOLY CRAP!! I quickly forgave the people in the store who gave me funny looks and thought of the movie Hitch when he had his allergic reaction. It's true your face can really look like it did in that movie! CRAZY!!!

Anya arrived shortly after I came home and was able to finish the haircut! I was so grateful to have Anya there to help me in this emergency! I was also extremely grateful to have my parents there as they normally wouldn't have been. I am grateful to have a father and brother-in-law who are worthy and able to administer in a time of need. I am grateful to my entire extended family who said many prayers and sent emails on my behalf. I was reminded how fragile life can be and I won't take that for granted!

In the end, the moral of the story is: If you see your pulse in your chin, RUN to the nearest hospital and ask for Dr. McDreamy!

That's right, I am talking...

Hello readers (or should I just say family?)...

I have been talking with everyone I know and it seems that this subject comes up quite frequently because, well, I am still single. **GASP!!** I know - how could someone as awesome as myself still be single? That is what my mother tells me and there is always a little truth in what she says, right?

So, I am going to dedicate this next post to dating! Yup, gonna do it! Here goes:

After having a ton of late night conversations with friends and roommates I have made the following decision. Dating is an interesting sport. Yes, I consider dating to fall in the "sport" category. Everyone cheers when you score a date, relationship, marriage.... Everyone will help place the blame on the other team or ref when things just don't work out and you lose.

Dating = Basketball. You are on the defense or offense at various stages of the game. You are part of a team that offers support and blocks those wanting to steal your ball/courage from reaching the basket/date.

So listen up team! Here are guidelines before you hit the court!

~ Don't be afraid to make the first move by simply asking someone on a date - that goes for boys or girls! Girls, we live in a new age!
~ Be open and honest in your communication of how you feel things are going. It makes it easier for both parties further down the road!
~ Just because a guy/girl asks you out - DON'T JUMP TO MARRIAGE! RELAX!!! Enjoy a night where you aren't home watching television (that's why we have hulu) and get to know the person. If it leads to a second, third, or even a fourth - still doesn't mean marriage just that you are enjoying the companionship.
~ Stop the group hanging out! If you like someone, don't have a party or movie night with a bunch of people, CALL.
~ Dates don't have to be expensive! If you need ideas - please ask!

Well, I can go on and on! Don't worry, I will spare you. Everyone is different - i.e. I am girl who would rather just be told up front that there isn't an interest rather than losing that friendship. Other girls like the nonverbal communication, I just couldn't ever catch on. I know, I know... silly Taci!

It takes a lot of courage to ask someone on a date, I have done it! Just remember sometimes things don't work out with the person you thought it would. BUT!!! I've never believed in there only being "THE ONE"... With so many good people out there, I don't think that there is ever just one.

Good luck! GO - FIGHT - DATE!!!

Smile!

I LOVE to smile and I LOVE to laugh! Both of which I haven't been doing enough of lately... These are examples of things that brought a smile or a laugh to me over the last little couple of weeks.

1) Getting a text in the wee hours of the morning wishing me a great day at work!
2) Having a stranger hold open the door.
3) Coming home and finding that the dishes are done and put away.
4) Receiving a call from a sibling who just wants to talk.
5) Getting a funny and unexpected letter in the mail.
6) Having my residents comment on my beautiful skin (ha ha!).
7) Blushing when my crush looks my way...
8) Friends that I can call upon when help is needed no matter how late.
9) Crisp Fall air when I walk outside.
10) Getting a new calculator! :)
11) Pinata!
12) Seeing hours of hard work pay off.
13) Smiles from a little niece as she recognizes me.
14) Hymns.
15) Pictures that really are worth more than a thousand words
16) Vanilla ice cream cone covered with the cherry dip/sprinkles!
17) Being told that I have the most beautiful eyes.
18) Watching a guy trip on the curb - laughing because I've done the exact same thing!

There are so many more I can name but these are at the top! Share the love! Bring out a smile!

50th Anniversary Gala

It's OVER!!! All my hard work and long hours and we are done!! YES! I am sitting at home and it is only 4:00 PM! WOW! I have an entire evening to just PARTY! Plus, today is my friend Merry's birthday and so we are going to dinner to celebrate! Seriously, this is a great day!!!

I just noticed that I have been using a ton of exclamation points but it can't be helped!! :)

Okay - back the the Gala...

I got to work at 7:00 AM and it was as if we hadn't been working late the previous two days at all! I was scrambling as name tags suddenly had legs and walked off! My tablecloths for the Silent Auction were removed to be placed on the bar and so the stress I felt was a bit much at this point! It was the beginning of a CRAZY day - I even got into a yelling match with my boss's boss! Dumb move!? Yep, thought that I was going to be packing my bags at that moment! I still can't believe that I lost it a little bit there.
Fortunately for me, I had to make a trip to Michael's and Staples to pick up items and could get a breather. Also, Erin showed up and like a great big sister made me feel better and get energized! I always felt like I could handle a situation pretty well with people that like to push buttons, I was wrong. Don't worry, by the end of the night he hugged me and said that the auction was the best one he'd seen and appreciated all hard work and long hours! Whew!! I didn't realize how stressed out I was until this morning when I got up and could barely move because my entire body is sore! Tears were shed (what?? I'm a GIRL!) and with the many prayers said by wonderful friends and myself... I survived.

Good news is that I met Senator McCain! He is very nice and he touched my arm! Yes, I am learning to rub shoulders with the up and ups! Ha ha ha! NO! I was just lucky to be standing in a good spot as he walked by. :)

I do have pictures, but due to HIPPA can only post those without residents, unless I can crop out their faces. Hmm.. Maybe I will try that! It was a great night and the Silent Auction looked very classy and elegant, just the way that I wanted it! OH! I can't forget the gorgeous dress that my friend Rachel let me borrow! I felt like a queen! I had so many compliments on the dress that I might not give it back to her! This final pic is of Kristina, Daryel and myself after the Gala ended and we were packing up to go home around 10:45 PM. It was a long day and we were all tired, but we made a GREAT team! Seriously, I would do anything with those two!
I will post what I can! Thanks for the many prayers and putting up with my crazed attitude the past couple of weeks! I am ready to party and enjoy life once more!

Two Days

Two days and my life will change.
Two days and I will meet Sen. McCain.
Two days and I will sleep through the night!
Just two days.....

Gettysburg

My cousin, William, has visited DC twice in the last two months for a leadership seminar; therefore, we have had good times catching up and visiting the DC sites. After Erin and William went to the museums, they decided it was time for a little road trip to Gettysburg!

Side note: I have been dying to visit Gettysburg ever since I learned about the Civil War, but haven't due to never finding people willing to spend an entire day there.

Erin, Drew, William, Alesa and I hit the road one morning with the sun shining bright! We watched as the city fell behind and the country roads welcomed us with rolling hills and minimal traffic.

There was a large discussion of the farming differences in the West verses the East. Hilarious discussion which reminded me of when I first moved here. Such as, William exclaiming, "What!? You don't water the fields?" Drew replying, "No, they don't water anything out here. In fact, when I was in Utah I couldn't believe the amount of sprinklers used in fields!" I realize the conversation might not be that exciting to some, but for those who have changed water in the wee hours of morning are now calculating the time saved.

Finally, we reached Gettysburg!! We followed an audio tour that took us around the different monuments and explained what happened over this bloody three day battle. I have always had an interest in the Civil War and to visit the site of the famous battle was more than I can explain. I finally saw with my own eyes the actual places I have been reading about for years. It was amazing!

I've been reading the journal of a General, who at the young age of 16, wrote a letter to his Southern family explaining why he would be fighting for the North. I couldn't imagine writing a letter to my family explaining why I would be going against everything they believed... One thing I always found interesting was when either side knew a solider had a family member in the opposing regiment, they would try to keep them at the back and out of the fight. Interesting?? I know!!!

I couldn't have asked for a better day to spend in a history filled area. Once again showing me that I am in the right place!

Brain, where did you go!?

Dear Brain

Where did you go? Why can't you be here when things are crazy and I am slow to focus?? Brain, please come back!

Forever Yours,

Taci

Have you ever been so overwhelmed that you can't focus? That is me today. Between work and life I fear that my brain has been overloaded and has gone into hiding! I just started my week of long hours at the office and although I am excited to see next Wednesday arrive, I have to constantly remind myself of things that really need to be done. My list of "to do's" now includes everyday things like eat lunch! Another example is my blogging when I really should be entering receipts and making a few phone calls!

Okay - peace out! If you find my brain, please tell it to come home!

All for a couch!!!

It was a cold and rainy Friday, when I decided to go and pick up a couch that was to be given to me. It was located in Arlington, which I thought was only twenty minutes away... Mistake # 1.

I rented a U-haul and a friend joined me in my trip to pick up the couch. With my trusty GPS in hand, we proceeded to make our way to Arlington. Traffic was heavy as it was rush hour, so we took what I thought were the back roads. My friend was enjoying the trip (he wasn't driving, which I don't blame him) and telling me how he had been to some of the restaurants we were driving past.

I began to take notice of a few of the buildings and had a funny feeling that they looked familiar. It wasn't until I recognized the Red Cross building on my right that I realized we were about a block away from the White House. I thought that my GPS must be messed up or something because there I was in a 10' U-haul truck in downtown DC... Mistake # 2!

It was just a few moments later that I heard police sirens, which isn't unusual, and started pulling to the side to make room. That is when I noticed that they followed me to the side. I started to get a little worried, I had no idea what I had done! I was scared to death that they were going to throw me out of the car and handcuff me!

I rolled down the window and watched as the two officers walked up both sides of the truck, I swear I was sweating bullets! The officer asked if I knew why they pulled me over, to which I responded a quick NO! The officer stated that it was illegal to drive a truck on 17th street, my stomach dropped!!! I told him I was so sorry I had no idea, he asked where I was coming from and where we were headed. I was so nervous I told him my old house in Derwood then corrected myself and stated Silver Spring, probably not the best thing to do. The officer then asked what was in back of the truck. I explained that I was going to pick up a couch and didn't have anything back there except the dolly. He asked if I would show him, so I climbed out of the truck and went to open the back.

On the way, the officer explained that had I been block or two over that ballists would have been raised and the truck permantently taken out, these laws where made after 9/11. Which is when I realized this Friday was indeed the 8th Anniversary of the attacks. I said a quick prayer of gratitude that my stupidity hadn't landed me in bigger trouble! I asked him how I got off 17th and he explained that I already turned off the road. I was so grateful to come around back and see my friend there to help me lift the door, my hands were shaking terribly! We showed both of the officers the truck and then the officer asked for my license. I went up front and turned it over to his waiting hands.

Sitting in the truck waiting was awful! I was picturing a $1,000 fine and time in jail... Finally, I saw both of them in the mirror coming up both sides again... This is it, AH!!

The officer stated that there was a $75 fine and two points would be removed from my license. In my mind after thinking of $1,000 fine, a $75 fine wasn't too bad. The officer stated that he wouldn't give me a ticket, but I received warning to watch for signs of where trucks couldn't go. I thanked him and said another prayer of gratitude for the officer's kindess!

We were off again to get this couch, Adam was on alert for trucks signs! We started heading towards the Pentagon and Adam mentioned that if pulled over here not to mention we had already been pulled over a few blocks away! Ha ha!

Luckily, we found the house and were able to pick up the couch. On the way home, the GPS again took us on back roads and I ended up turning it off... Mistake #3! Signs here on the East Coast are CONFUSING!!! I already don't know which way is North/South/East/West! Needless to say, we made it home shoved the couch into the elevator and through my door! So, I now have a couch!! It only took five hours, two starving movers, non-working GPS and one large U-haul truck!

Bye Bye Miss American Beef Pie!

What happened to the summer?? Seriously, it is almost September and school has started and I am still waiting for summer to begin!

Things at work are going crazy due to our annual Gala that will be at the end of September! Yikes! Still haven't found out if I am suppose to bring a date this year or not...

Also, I found out the worst news this afternoon... I am suppose to say good bye to red meat! That's right, it's done some damage to my insides and I have to say farewell old friend. **Sniff, Sniff!**

I remember when I wanted to be a "simple" vegetarian who only ate white meat. My family made fun of me (is that a surprise??) and I only lasted a couple of months. The hamburger I had at the end of that experience was probably the most memorable! I couldn't remember why I gave up something so delicious in the first place. Well, now that it is on a more permanent basis, I guess that I am going to have to train my brain to eat fish (still struggling) and chicken (don't know)! I am going to need to learn a whole new set of recipes - GULP!!

Wish me luck on this change and if you have any good advice on cooking anything that has white meat... Pass it along!

A Step Behind

The summer is almost over! Honestly, I don't think that I have ever had a summer literally fly by as quickly as this one has. By this time next week, my fun roommate Ashley will have moved back to Utah and most of my summer intern friends will be preparing to leave as well.

I guess that I have been doing a lot of thinking lately ("...a dangerous past-time, I know" - 10 pts if you can name where that quote is from!).

I realized that I am going to be 27 in a month and a couple of days... Crazy, right!? I have seen many friends finish college, get married, start a family, and I have been feeling like I am a step behind.

College - I love learning, just not in a school setting. I am constantly being told by my friends, co-workers, residents that I need to finish my degree. I don't disagree with them but if they knew the extent of my hatred of tests and being told what to read and study they would see my point. I LOVE learning and trying new things, I love school when I don't have to stress about a test (which is usually the first week). It sounds like I am making up excuses, I guess in a way I am, but I just hate school. Why can't they have a college where you don't have tests!? I am a terrible test taker!!!

Marriage and Children - Well, I am not going to be having either of those in the near future (sorry Mom and Dad). Okay, is it because I don't feel like I am ready to take the step? Not really - it is a scary step to take, but with the right person can be an adventure right? Then of course there is a whole person who needs to be included in this equation... Hmm.... Interesting....

Children - Those of you who really know me, know that I am not good with little children. :) I am good at shopping for clothes or purchasing a toy or two every now and then, but I just don't know how to entertain a child. It is a weird feeling when you look around you and all of your old roommates, friends, co-workers, sisters are having children and you are sitting on square one still. It often reminds me of Phase 10, when you are stuck two phases behind and everyone continues to move on ahead. I have gotten use to the fact that I may not have children of my own, my eternal phase 9.

Upon reviewing what I have written, this almost sounds like a pity party! Please, Please... No pity party intended!!! Overall, I am in a good spot. I like who I am becoming and know that I still have a lot of learning and growing to do. College will be starting again for me soon. Mr. Right?? He is either out there thinking of me or waiting for me in the skies above (Sheri Dew said she was going to marry Captain Moroni, well I am getting one of his Stripling Warriors then)!

Life is good - Life is Great! - Life is Beautiful!!!

Had to share!

I was transferring some of my old pics onto a memory stick and found these old pictures of Alesa. I had to share because I thought she looked so adorable!

She's a cutie!

I just got back from the Beach and pictures will be posted soon! It was amazing! We went to an island where people were camping and there were real live wild horses!!! They would walk through the campground - sort of like the buffalo in Yellowstone. It was crazy! Okay, I'll post the pictures soon!

A Spiritual Thought - sort of!

I am one who has always felt uneducated in the spiritual thoughts category, but I realized something tonight. Of course, this is something that I realized later in life while most caught on earlier..

I always wanted to be one of those smart commenters in a class, and although I am still working on the smart part I am starting to comment. I am truly thinking about how I can contribute in some way to the discussion that is going on. I have found that not only do I not fall asleep but I actually learn and what is then taken in can be used in later lessons. Wow!?

Who would have thought that the way to become a commenter was by actually opening your mouth? I know, I know... Me.

What!? A YEAR???

That's right - I reached a big mile marker this past month! I have been here on the East Coast for one year! WOW!!!

I have missed the friends, family, co-workers left behind in Utah and all of the activities/gatherings/bbq's/birthdays I have missed out on. The only thing that I know is that I am where I am suppose to be!

I have loved getting to know the history of our country on a deeper level. Plus, I can't get over the amazing concerts, zoo, museums, memorials that are all FREE to the public!!

Some of the things I have experienced the past year include:
* Learning that girls really do sweat and it can pour off your face (that was just walking up the stairs in July)
* How amazingly beautiful Fall can be
* A GPS is your best friend
* No matter how far away I live, Mother is just a plane ride away!
* There are more restaurants than just PF Changs (although it is still one of my favorites)
* How nice a metro system is during crazy weather
* How beautiful Cherry Blossoms are in the Spring
* How handsome the Police/FBI/Firemen are out here
* The average age of a single person is 28 (just where I want it to be)
* Doesn't matter if you live 12.2 miles away from work it's still an hour commute
* It only takes four hours to drive through five states

That is a tiny little list compared to what I have learned and seen the past year! I have loved the time spent and memories made so far and I am very excited to see what the following years will bring.

Chasing Rainbows

The last week it has been rainy here on the East Coast. I have even seen a couple of rainbows, which was very surprising because I didn't think you could see those between the massive buildings here.

I was driving to FHE a couple of days ago and saw a very beautiful rainbow and it reminded me of one of my favorite memories. When I was around 14 and living in Tridell, it was raining really hard one day and then I saw the most beautiful rainbow ever. I went and told my sister Erin, who was 16, to come and check it out. She did a little laugh and then promptly told me to get in the car. When I asked why, she simply stated we were going to chase rainbows.

Really!? I remember looking at her and thinking she was crazy and getting in the car more out of concern rather then looking for an adventure. Off in the van we drove chasing the rainbow and I never had so much fun! We even stopped at one point and got out to run towards it... Obviously we never reached it as I am not sitting upon my pot of gold!

But I have never forgotten how much fun it was to just act silly and have a little one on one time with my sister. Something we didn't do a lot of while we were in our younger years.

So, I hope the next time you see a rainbow you will go and chase it. Leave the worries of the world behind for those few precious moments and just enjoy the chase.

What a week!

Well, most of you may have heard that I was in the hospital and to help save my hands from retyping what happened I will blog about it.

Last Sunday, May 10, I noticed that I was having some issues with stomach but thought it was because I was being more strict about what I was eating. I was spending a lot of time over at Erin and Drew's because my Aunt Pam and Uncle Ken were in town helping Erin with her first week back at work. Little did any of us know what a blessing having them here would be! By Tuesday, May 12, I realized that I was not just having some little stomach issue as I begin throwing up and having a fever that reached 102.5! By around 5:00 AM, I called work and left a message that I wouldn't be coming in and waited another two hours before calling my boss to let him know I was going to the clinic. I was a little nervous as thoughts of swine flu were dancing through my head!

At 9:00 AM, I called and was told to go right into the clinic as I had been unable to keep anything down for hours. By the time I was at the clinic, I was so dehydrated that it took four people and a lot of needle pokes to get an IV in and working. By 4:00 PM, Erin came and picked me up to drive me to Holy Cross's emergency room. At this point I was still able to walk and there were short periods where I could live outside of the bathroom. I went to the emergency room and there Aunt Pam and Uncle Ken joined us as I was getting pain and nausea medication to help thing get better. At this point, everywhere I went I had to have a bucket as my nausea was more than I could handle. Later that night, I was admitted into the hospital and attempted to get sleep.

Thursday, May 14, Erin stayed with me at the hospital all day and my friend Merry stopped by to cheer me up! At this point it was all I could do to get out of bed and the pain and nausea was beyond anything I can describe. Friday, May 15, I aspirated and ended up needing to be on oxygen as my oxygen levels were around 80. Saturday, May 16, I could barely get out of bed and much to the relief of my sister my mom flew into town to come stay with me. Sunday, May 17, I couldn't get out of bed and the vomiting was still continuing... I was so sick that I remember telling my mom to just take me out back and put me out of my misery! Between throwing up, my roommmates constant Court TV going 24 hours a day, not being able to even take care of myself, I was not a happy person to be around. My sweet VT, Stephanie, came to see me after church and I couldn't even make it the 15 minutes of her visit without getting sick. Sunday night I was informed that the Doctor wanted to have an endoscopy/colonoscopy done Monday morning to figure out what was going on...

Sunday night was the WORST night of my LIFE!! Already being unable to keep anything down they wanted me to drink this nasty tasting drink that would clear my insides. My mom was a real trouper and kept by my side always making sure that my pink bucket was never out of reach! My mom left at 1:30 AM after promising to be back at 8:00 AM - it was hard to have her leave me there that night... I was so sick.

Monday, May 18, morning dawned - Judge Judy yelling in the background and my brains about ready to burst. My mom showed up right before they were getting ready to wheel me down for the scopes and I was there with bucket in hand. They wheeled me back to the room and there was a small discussion on my need to still be on the oxygen, I then was informed that they were getting ready to put me to sleep. I was grateful for the chance to be out for a few shorts hours and away from my current situation. Too good to be true... All too quickly I was awake. I was staring into the eyes of one of the assistants and noticed an oxygen bag sitting on my chest. I was then informed that I had stopped breathing during the endoscopy; therefore, they weren't going to continue with the other procedure. Needless to say, my tears of anger weren't held back! I was a wreck! Those of you who have gone through that prep know how awful it is and to find out that you have to go through that again ended up being a bit much for me.

I was wheeled back to my room where I had absolutely no strength to even slide from the transport bed back into my hospital bed. A new doctor made rounds that day and after discussing my situation with my mom the decision was made to stop all pain and nausea medication and get a soft food diet. She said that by the end of the day she wanted me to be up and walking by myself... In my head I thought she was nuts!! My lunch of applesauce, pudding, and chicken soup arrived and my mother literally shoved it down my throat. Slowly, the waves of nausea passed and the need for oxygen was gone. It was probably 2-3 hours later that same day that I was able to walk to the bathroom and I even walked down the hallway! The nurse that started her shift when I was taken for the scopes, couldn't believe how quickly I had turned around. I was doing so well by that evening that I asked if I could leave! I couldn't wait to leave and get to a place where I didn't have to hear the sounds of Court TV, my roommate complaining about mean nurses, and waking up to nurses wanting to draw more blood. Watching my mom leave on Monday night scared me half to death.. I was afraid that once she left I would get sick again and they would tell me that I was unable to leave the hospital. Needless to say, the already rough nights I was experiencing were nothing compared to that night.

Tuesday morning dawned and I was up and ready to leave by 5:30 AM!!! My mom showed up around 9:00 AM and then it was a waiting game for the doctor. I was finally released!!!!!!!! I was so relieved that it was all I could do to hold back sobs of relief while we were leaving. My emotions were on quite a rollercoaster for the next couple of days as my body was adjusting to actually sleeping and recovering. I learned a lot about myself during that week and I also learned how much love my family and friends have for me. My dad sent gorgeous roses and my work also sent beautiful flowers that really brightened up my dull room.

My home teacher, member of the Bishopric, visiting teachers, a boss, and countless emails, phone calls, and voicemails from people in the ward were there for me while I was in the hospital and even when I left. I missed out on going to the yearly Duck Beach trip, but I was able to spend time with my mom (who left everything to be there for me). I was also able to go to Drew's graduation and watch him walk, it was pretty much awesome. But the week was not over yet...

Saturday, May 23, my mom and I were leaving Erin's after Drew's BBQ and doing minor shopping. I was driving and on the way home I was stopped at a red light waiting to turn left and BAM - we were rear-ended. My mom immediately called 911 and I went between hysterical crying (hey, I just BARELY got out of the hospital) and trying to figure out what to do. We finally moved to the side of the road as the cars behind us where losing the no patience that they had. The driver in the car behind us approached and told me to come and look at the damage. I got out and to my amazement there was little damage to either car. I had some scratches and my bumper was a little bent at the ends. His car, Cadillac Escalade, had was appeared to be no damage. He went on to say no damage, let's just leave and be done. I then informed him that I had already called the police and I wanted to exchange information. Well, three cops and the fire truck showed up... It turns out that he was driving drunk and was carted off to jail! So, now I am working on having my car checked out and getting things with that squared away!

All I can say is... What a week!!

Utah Weekend

My sister Erin wanted to visit the family in Utah and show off little Alesa June. Well, I couldn't stand to be away from Alesa for two whole weeks so I decided to fly into Utah on a Friday night and return to Maryland Monday morning with Erin. It was a crazy afternoon trying to leave work and get to the airport since I was experiencing the typical parking lot aka rush hour.

I flew to meet Drew to get Alesa's carseat as I would be bringing them home. I watched as Drew and his brother Joe driving the Subaru like two teenage boys! :) Joe literally threw the carseat in the back and I flew off to get back on the road and fight my way to the airport! My stress of that moment is coming all back to me! AH!!!

I made it with twenty minutes to spare and was so excited to see my family that I couldn't sit still on the plane! My brother Logan picked me up and drove me to Tooele to meet with some of the siblings. The next morning it was off to Salt Lake to have breakfast with friends and the to Provo for a luncheon date and a tour of my friends office on BYU's campus. From Provo, I quickly drove home to Tridell with only a minor scare of the vehicle I was driving having transmission issues. I was so excited to see Mom and Dad! I loved being home even though it was less than 24 hours... I then drove back to Salt Lake for a BBQ with the siblings! I made a midnight stop to wake up an old friend and say hello before trying to sleep the three hours before getting back to the airport!

It was a whirlwind trip to Utah, I kept wishing I had more time to spend there. I even loved the concerned lecture from an older sibling whose name starts with "G" about my still being single - little does he remember that he is older and in the same situation. I informed "G" that I would look further into the situation when he called and informed me he had a date himself... "G" still waiting!

Farm Trip

I was invited to a friend's farm in Virginia for the weekend to relax and enjoy the countryside. Growing up in the country, I was excited for a trip to see the stars and have no neighbors/police sirens/traffic/crap loads of people!

As my luck goes Saturday dawned dull and rainy! My roommate Andrea and I started the two hour drive with excitment brewing as the cement city fell behind us in the distance. We made it to the farm with little trouble, which always surprised me because the friend who wrote the directions and gave me the map is blind. Mrs. Price is absolutely amazing! We showed up in time to enjoy a light lunch and have a nice tour of the 80+ acre farm before sitting down to an excellant dinner.

Mrs. Price and her daughter Debbie were the best! Debbie was a wonderful cook (although she claimed to be out of practice), and Mrs. Price was full of wonderful historical stories! Mrs. Price tried scaring me by telling me about the bears that come right up to the house and eat the bird seed... Don't tell her, but it worked! We went to a berry farm on Christmas Tree Lane (no joke) and we were given fresh peach jam and honey with the honeycomb in the jar!!

After a relaxing Sunday morning, Andrea and I went to Lurray Caverns. Andrea was very helpful with my questions since she graduated with a biology degree! We had a good time viewing the cavern and the little auto museum connected right next door. We went to a show by Mark Russell and had a good time on the front row! He made a comment to me that made my face bright red and I was nervous that Mrs. Price would ask me to explain (it was about texting - that's all your getting).

John Adams (should be your Favorite Founding Father) Memorial Footrace

I did it!!! I went all over the Washington DC area using only the metro and my two legs to figure out clues similar to the "Amazing Race." I had two wonderful and very fit teammates who kept me going to the bitter end. Unfortunately, we ended up in last place but it was probably the best day of my life!!!

I had a blast figuring out the clues and finding the "bonus" clues such as a child on a leash! Yes, we did actually find a child on a leash and they posed in a picture with us, the little boy was adorable! We walked all the way (which is long!) to the National Cathedral and it was the wrong church!

All in all it was a great day! Way to go TAMANAHAWKS!!!!

Anyone there!?

How terrible am I that I can't even keep a simple blog updated! Well, be prepared because I have a ton of things to say!!

Happy Easter!

Well, Easter is upon us.. Okay, it has almost passed for me. I had a wonderful day with the sun shining and the earth literally springing beautiful flowers and waking up right in front of me! I even had my friendly black squirrel attempt again to get in my house!

I wasn't able to attend my grandmother's birthday bash on Saturday in Utah, so I had to do something to keep my mind of missing things. What do I do in that case? I shop! Yes, I spent four glorious hours shopping in Target, Giant, Dicks, and wandering around the little shopping center near my house. It was amazing and definitely did the trick in keeping my mind of not being in Utah!

Easter Sunday dawned bright and early for me! I dawned on what I considered a Spring looking outfit and went to spend a wonderful time at church. Afterwards, I had Molly and my roommate Andrea as my dinner guests. We enjoyed an afternoon of Thai Chicken, Pear Sundaes, and Cuppa-Cuppa-Two popcorn. It was very relaxing for me! The girls even helped me pick my magical musical number for tomorrow's Open Mic Night at the church. I will let you know how that goes! :)

Here is a picture of the dessert I copied from a French Restaurant I went to in Bethesda... What do you think?

Sisterly Love!

For those of you who may not know Erin and I are pretty much opposites. Erin loves the rugged outdoors, not showering for two weeks, and drinking water straight from the river (fish pee in that, yuck!) I am what one would call a "glamper," which is a glorious camper, meaning hotels/cabins, hot streaming water and flushing toilets, with restaurants near by.

But our differences aside we have had a ton of fun together... Erin making fun of me and mirrors or watching me barely squeaking out "Person! Person!" when a pedestrian got in our way while she was driving. Plus, I have taught Erin the lesson of the black boots and she never criticizes my shoe addiction. Having Erin close by has also been handy by becoming my GPS when I am lost in Southeast DC or giving me advise on the East Coast Singles Life.

Also, thanks to Erin and Drew who had little Alesa, I had the opportunity to have my mom and sister's visit the two of us in DC. Although I was constantly reminded that they weren't here to really be with me or when I was limited to only staying at Drew and Erin's a couple of nights while the parade of Merkley's was in full force - I had a GREAT time with my sisters and most especially my mom!



Okay I can't find pictures with Mel and Mom, which means the pictures were taken with their cameras.... Dang! Here is one of Kari and me on our pamper night... I LOVE being a girl!










Here is an adorable picture of little Alesa, proving to the world that...
I am her FAVORITE aunt!!!

Forgive me!

Okay - in all fairness to me - I have been extremely busy the last month! For those that don't know this is my favorite time of the year!

MARCH MADNESS!!!!!!

Ah! I love watching the fun and engaging sport of college basketball. Not only do we see some amazing talent and watch the rise of the underdogs but I love a sport where I get to watch boys become men on the court!

I can almost smell the sweat and feel the adrenaline rush as they battle to protect their basket from the opposing team. I watched as a player from Wyoming after dunking the ball into the basket did a complete flip in the air landing on his side, not hurt but embarrassed! Ha ha! Obviously, he still had some growing up to do...

I have done pretty well on my bracket and at last count was in first place! All I need is UNC to seal the deal for me! Then it will be back to my normal non-sport self. Credit for the love of this game should be given to Julia who introduced me to the wonderful world of college basektball. She put up with my constant questions and even tried to teach me. Well, the teaching lasted for about 15 minutes - before she threw the ball down and said some people just can't play sports! Ha ha! (I already told her that.)

I ♥ March Madness!

Tidbits about Taci

I have been reading the lists of things people may not know about you and decided to add my own unknown or crazy things to the pile.

#1 - I am the oldest single female in my family and I love it!
#2 - I have always had a fear of losing contact with old friends - which is why I LOVE Facebook and blogging!
#3 - I have a fear of getting salmonella poisoning from eating raw eggs, therefore I don't eat raw cookie dough or cake batter.
#4 - I will not be contribing to the pool of grandkids for my parents the traditional way, sorry to say that adoption is the way for me!
#5 - I am always scared that I will be the victim of a person who had road rage, especially the out here!
#6 - I will always try things at least once before truly giving an opinion - I have been surprised many times by how much I enjoyed the event, food, or music.
#7 - I was the neighborhood bully while growing up in Roosevelt and then learned my lesson of being on the other end when my parents moved and I switched schools.
#8 - I have always felt like I was born in the wrong time period. I thought that I should have been born mid 1800's where women were pampered and wore huge skirts and were "courted."
#9 - I have always wanted to be the cool Aunt for my nieces and nephews.
#10 - I am a true "Glamper!" (For those that don't know what that means it is Glamorous Camping i.e. cabin or hotel)
#11 - I am petrified of fish!!
#12 - When I am frustrated or stressed out I sing at the top of my lungs any style of music that comes to mind - sometimes extremely annoying my roommates!
#13 - When I climb into my car while it is freezing outside I do the Wisconsin Scream and warm myself right up! Thanks to Megan for teaching me that one!
#14 - I have a tendency to get myself in crazy situations and dumb enough to tell my family who years and years and years and years later still laugh about it.
#15 - I love the game "Guesstures," and if I get a hard word that no one guesses then I have to try it out later until I am satisfied with the clues I am acting out.
#16 - I watched "Hairspray" and felt I would have done a great job as Tracy Turnblad.
#17 - I love going to extremely nice restaurants, especially when I am not the one paying! :)
#18 - I realized after nannying for about two weeks that watching children was NOT my calling in life!
#19 - I have missed dental appointments because I can't get my hands from their death grip on the steering wheel.
#20 - I learned the hard way that you should immediately go to the ER if your tounge, lips, and eyes are swelling.
#21 - I love shoes, I have a ton and can't stop myself from buying more.
#22 - I LOVE BEING A GIRL!!!
#23 - I set my parent's GPS to Gettysburg while we were on our way to Penn State and couldn't figure out how to get it corrected. Unfortunately, they didn't think it was funny and I didn't get to go to Gettysburg.
#24 - I am terrible at decorating my apartment - heaven help me if I ever get a house!
#25 - I love showing off my DC! That is an invitation for people to come and visit!

Those that have known me for a long time probably know a few more, but my brain is not functioning at it's full capacity today. I am not at work and therefore my brain doesn't need to be turned on. :)

The time has arrived!

I am sitting here at Holy Cross waiting for my sister Erin to have her first little girl (whom I lovingly call Penelope June)... It is a little after 11 PM! And the little Wheeler baby is going to be born on Great-Grandpa Clyde's Birthday! Yeah!

I have been observing my bro-in-law in action and he has been great! He is literally at Erin's beck and call - she asked for a foot massage and he ran to grab the lotion! Seriously, I need to find myself one of those! I was talking about a foot massage, not a husband! Ha ha!

I will post pictures as soon as she is born! I am so excited!

House on Fire??

After an extremely long day of work and picking up a little present Erin left me in the office fridge, I was ready to come home and crash into bed! While walking up the stairs to my bedroom I noticed a faint electric fire smell and immediately started sniffing around to see what it could be. (Sniffing as well as my stuffy nose will allow!)

I couldn't see anything but remembered seeing an old heater in a roommates room recently and figured that it might be coming from that. So, I went into my room to finish taxes and get ready for bed. Another roommate of mine promptly knocked on my door and asked if I could smell the crazy electric smell that she kept smelling to which I quickly replied "Yes!" We decided to start looking around and both smelled it coming quite strongly from another roommates room. We finally knocked on the door and asked if she had anything plugged in that might be the cause of the smell and she informed us she didn't. So, it is back to the drawing board!

Hmmm.... Tricky little smell.... So, I will be contacting our landlord if I make it to the morning to see if he can come over and tell us what is going on! Don't worry too much about me, there is a tree close to my window that I can try to jump to if anything happens!

Nasty Fridge + Weak Stomach = My Day!

Warning!! The following post is not meant to be read by those with a weak stomach!!!



Today was Inauguration Day, therefore I decided in honor of having the day off and after watching all of the festivities downtown I would start my early spring cleaning by cleaning the fridge and freezer. Ugh!


So, I waited until my taxes were almost complete, watched a few episodes of "The Office," talked with a few friends online as well as on the phone... Putting it off long enough, I decided it was time to complete the task that I informed my roommates I would do. I marched into the kitchen and saw the monster that would swallow the next two hours or so of my time and bravely continued forward! I thrust open the fridge door and in horror slammed it back shut putting my head down to recover from the deadly stench that came from the unit. I staggered into our front room fell onto the couch and decided then and there that I wasn't ready for this and decided to watch a movie instead. Who knows - maybe when the movie was over the fridge would magically have cleaned itself!

After Happily Ever Aftering with "Enchanted" I decided I would put on the soundtrack and get busy. I was even singing hoping rodents would hear my plea and come into my house to do this dirty little deed - either they thought it was too dirty or my singing was awful because not one showed. So, I was left it the task by myself!

I quickly opened the fridge and threw anything that wasn't marked or that looked past due into the garbage bag and ran it (bare foot and all) out onto the curb where it will be taken away in the morning. Three full and heavy bags later - it was done! I turned around with a slight smile and felt like I was on top of the world!

** Please note that due to the constant moving in and out of roommates recently this was from those in the past who left things behind and in not being marked wasn't thrown out. Lesson learned - Mark food or Taci (Fridge Nazi) will throw it away! **

My Car...

I was driving home tonight from a cancelled institute class and just reflected on how much I love my car! My roommate just tonight was commenting that my car can fit in any space as it is so small and perfect. (Okay, maybe I added perfect - but it was what she was thinking!!) Seriously, I don't think that there has ever been a more perfect vehicle for me... It is compact, full of energy, races like there is no tomorrow, and modern looking! See!! It was a match made in Scion heaven!

My friend, Anya, has a brother who called my car a micro-minivan. I know!? I couldn't believe that anyone would come up with that while looking at my car. :) What can I say, he is a guy and most likely jealous! I posted a picture of my car so you can be jealous of my awesome car as well!

Freedoms, Rights, Voices

I just finished a movie and couldn't help but feel very touched by the story that was shared. The movie was called, "We Were Soldiers," and was about the Vietnam War. There are so many times that I know I have taken for granted things that I have been blessed with in my life. Freedom to write on a blog about anything that comes to mind, freedom to practice a religion of my choice, freedom to move from one place to another, freedom to gain an education in a field of my choice, and so many others.

A friend passed away this weekend and she always told me to make sure that I enjoyed the life that I'd been given and to make sure that I not only thanked God, but thanked those who continued to fight for those rights - my rights. I work in a place were women and men served our country for many decades and the stories shared have changed me. I have been to the Army Hospital and seen soldiers both old and young with wounds/scars that are there because of battles fought for me and my America.

So, I want to take this time to thank those I know that have served or are serving to keep this the land of the free: Cody Womack, Glade Merkley, Grandpa Harvey, Michael Young, Clifford Merkley, Riley Beck, and my residents. Thank you!

Firsts and Family!

The First Posting...



Well - after visiting the family in Utah I decided I would like to try to keep the family and friends more in the loop of my crazy life here in the "BIG" city. Also because I am sure that my family was tired of hearing me retell stories over and over again because one of the nine siblings wasn't paying attention the first time (which I am sure never happens to anyone else!). But I sure do love them!!!



Speaking of family, I have had multiple shocked co-workers and new friends ask often what life is like coming from a family of ten (10) children all of which are from the same mother and father! The best thing to say is that it was very interesting growing up - I mean I never was included in the "grown-up" conversations until I was 21 or so and will forever be under the "Four Little Kids" category. I will never forget when I was 10 or so coming home from Salt Lake in early February or March and after dropping off my grandparents camper at their house realized that there wasn't room for us to all fit in the truck cab and so Katie and I were nestled in the truck bed in coats, sleeping bags, and with a tarp laid over us to keep in the heat. I honestly think that during that ride home it was the only time Katie and I probably ever willingly hugged each other... Ha ha ha! Don't worry things have since changed in our sisterly relationship! I think that my parents did wonderful in raising us... It was a pretty hard job they had, although my being the perfect angel I was one of the easier cases! I loved that my parents always supported all of my siblings desires even if it meant watching them move thousands of miles away. I love the support that my siblings give each other - through the rough times and the good times. I know in a moments notice my five sisters would come and rescue me from a bad situation through "discussing" everything during a lovely dinner. (You know what I am talking about.) I have four brothers who can intimidate a date just by looking at him... Fair warning was given to all bros-in-law that it was a requirement to look intimidating when needed if they wanted to be in our family. So far, my sisters did alright! Ha ha ha! What could be better than having a large family!? I honestly don't know! I guess what I am trying to say is that I love the family that I was born into!! Even when I had to make buckets of curly fries, be on a leash in Disneyland, watch people stand and count how many kids got out of the van, seeing my lovely Barbie's hair cut off because a sister was jealous, held my sister's hand while doing jobs because we kept fighting, listen to Dad's lecture #73 (Tree of Life), move water lines, run up the stairs first to make sure mom wasn't awake while we took candy from the drawer, or sit on the wheel in our green van... Even then!