What's up, Garahanas???

20 Years of Absolute Happiness

2010-03-06T11:21:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, Larry and I celebrated our 20th anniversary in LasVegas not long ago. It's probably bad luck to say too much about your marriage (just look at all of the reality shows of married couples that didn't work out) but, I just have to say how thankful I am to have Larry in my life. Las Vegas was so fun and crazy, but I could have been anywhere. The best part was time with my BFF! I couldn't ask for a better partner. Not too many people could put up with my "larger than life" (insert obnoxious, if you like) personality. He is patient, kind, thoughtful, helpful, sensitive, smart, funny, and a manly man too! That's just a few of his many fabulous qualities. It doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes too!
We left the kids home while we were in Vegas and I learned something from that. My kids really are more independent than I thought, come to find out and the world won't come to an end if I am not there 24/7. I knew the kids were trustworthy, but the house was still standing when we returned, and everyone got to everything they were supposed without drama. There were no parties. Jordan drove to school all week and didn't crash. He even called to ask me if it was alright to drive home for lunch. Sweet kid, he could have just done it and no one would have been the wiser. He did leave the lights on one day and Grandpa came to jump start the car for him, but that could happen to anyone. AND, speaking of Grandpa, we are so lucky to have him around. He took the kids dinner a couple of times just because he is such a great man. The apple didn't fall far from the tree.
Wow, twenty years has absolutely flown by and I have to say, I still get butterflies when I see my man. Marriage is good!

Fun Times at the DMV!!!

2010-01-29T06:55:00.001-08:00

OK, so it has been absolutely ages since I have written anything. My bad! Lot's to catch up on, but for the moment, it's all about my "fun" trip to the DMV with Joe. It started out smoothly, picture taken in the first 10 minutes. Then came the hours of sitting. Jordan and I read every trivia question. The DMV provides this service on their wall between countless guilt trips to become an organ donor, which, by the way, everyone should consider! We were there so long, the trivia started over and Jordan and I had memorized every answer. Did you know that the average number of sesame seeds on a MacDonalds Big Mac is 178? Fascinating stuff! I have to say, it's good that Jordan and I really enjoy each other's company because we spent 2 1/2 hours of quality time together. We took pictures of ourselves, texted, and laughed at random things. We laughed (or were hysterical, not sure which) because the DMV numbers kept getting messed up. (see picture) It even spelled Dib and we considered texting the picture to Anthony because his last name is Dib, but alas neither of us have his number. Finally, they called Jordan's magic number D346 and we both felt like we had won the lottery, although it cost us $30.00! End result, a new licensed driver in the house. Of course, Beans and Brew had to follow so we could "decompress" after so much waiting. Then, Five Guys for the celebratory dinner. Way to go, Joe!

Words to Live By- This version is attributed to Mother Teresa

2009-07-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

Words to Live By- Dr. Kent M. Keith

2009-07-11T18:47:00.001-07:00

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.

Hummingbirds

2009-07-04T08:53:00.001-07:00

We were excited to see that our mama hummingbird returned to her nest over our door again. We followed the progress of the babies and Larry even climbed up and got pictures of the eggs, which looked like little jelly beans. Yesterday, they were on the outside of the nest. It was WAY too crowded in that small nest. We knew they would be leaving us soon. Larry spent half of the day trying to capture them on video and digitally. He was finally successful! He got some great video which I will post later. Michelle even came over to get some pictures since I knew they would be leaving soon. Ironically, when we got up this morning, the babies were gone, on Independence Day! Hopefully we will see them again! They are magnificent to watch. AND, mama hummingbirds are VERY territorial. We watched her chase off a sparrow and she attempted to kick Larry's butt as well! That is no small task!

The Man of the Hour

2009-06-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

It has been a very long time since I have blogged. Life just seems to keep getting in the way and there aren't enough hours in the day. If I stop for nothing else, it must be for this. June 5, 2009 was a very exciting day in the Garahana household, especially for Dylan. Hectic would also be an appropriate word! Unlike other graduates on their day, Dylan did not get to sleep in. He chose this day (or rather had it thrust upon him) to take his certification tests for A+ in computer repair and help desk technician. So, up at 7:00 AM for him! For those of you who know Dylan, you would think this would have been a piece of cake but, he was so nervous that he wouldn't pass and would waste our money, that he put off taking the tests. Since Dylan had taken GTI classes, there was a price break of 50% off for taking these tests and the bonus of getting an addition 50% reimbursement if you pass. Each test was 90 minutes long. Dylan practiced like a mad man and I had no doubt (had none before this really) that he was ready. Well, he passed both tests easily and in fact aced the help desk tecnician test. These certifications are valuable in the job market. One hurdle down, one to go.
On to the graduation festivities. We went to lunch at Chili's at Dylan's request and Grandpa joined us. Dylan's graduation was at 7:00 PM at the E Center. He looked so nice and was so excited. There were gale force winds to contend with to get inside. We sat behind the Larsen's and in front of the Kennisons. Both have sons that are friends with Dylan so that was nice. There were some amusing moments. At one point, someone had smuggled in a beach ball and hit it onto the floor. It, unfortunately, landed at Dylan's feet and there was NO WAY he was participating in ANYTHING that might get him in trouble! He will forever more be the rule follower. Pretty much everything else was typical graduation stuff. I can't believe the the number of leis handed out and the gigantic pictures people hold up in the stands of their graduates. It looked like an election in a foreign country! I did have my teary moments and I got all choked up watching Dylan walk on stage and knowing that he is growing up!
Now, it is on to the next phase of his life. He is only a few credits away from his Associates Degree so he is going to finish his transfer degree in Computer Science at SLCC. Then he will transfer to the U. I know he has an incredibly bright future and will succeed in whatever he does. He still won't get his driver's license, but I suppose he can just hire Jordan to drive him around!

IBC- Be Informed

2009-03-14T17:46:00.001-07:00

Recently, I got some terrible news. My Aunt Mary, who I absolutely adore and who holds a special place in my heart, was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC). Yes, I know you have all been told 50 million times to get your mammogram annually etc. Here's the problem, IBC is often not detected by a mammogram. We have all been told, if you have a lump, get it checked out. There is often no lump with IBC. I have done a great deal of research and I want to share some of the symptoms of this aggressive form of cancer, because we all need to be aware. Here's what to look for:

Swelling, usually sudden, sometimes a cup size in a few days
Itching
Pink, red, or dark colored area (called erythema) sometimes with texture similar to the skin of an orange (called peau d’orange)
Ridges and thickened areas of the skin
Nipple retraction
Nipple discharge, may or may not be bloody
Breast is warm to the touch
Breast pain (from a constant ache to stabbing pains)
Change in color and texture of the areola

My aunt also was on Provera for many, many years following her hysterectomy. Please be very informed before taking hormone replacement therapy. There are some serious links to this particular form of very aggressive cancer. There are studies to back that up.
My Aunt Mary is putting up quite a fight for her life. She has the most aggressive chemotherapy to endure and then surgery, followed by radiation and/or more chemotherapy. She is very brave and I think about her every day and pray for her. When I am faced with roadblocks in life, I have to take a minute and think about what is really important and is it worth wasting energy over. All of the day to day dramas pale in comparison to what my aunt is going through, and for that matter what my mom must be going through as well. She has been her caretaker and her advocate. These are some strong women, and I admire their courage.
Let me also say, if you find yourself facing this disease, MD Anderson Hospital in Texas is the ONLY IBC specific clinic in the world. They have been wonderful to my aunt. We have come so far in our research, but there is so little out there about IBC. Here are some links for more information.

http://www.ibcresearch.org
http://www.mdanderson.org/Care_Centers/BreastCenter/dIndex.cfm?pn=80B5670B-7F3D-11D4-AEC800508BDCCE3A

Below is a video about IBC. Parts of it are a bit graphic, but I feel it's so important to be informed. I have lost too many loved ones to breast cancer. Get the word out. Information is power.

2009-03-14T17:45:00.001-07:00

Inflammatory Breast Cancer - The most amazing videos are a click away

Christmas Day Highlights

2009-01-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

I just thought I would share Christmas photos. Among the gifts, Cracker was excited to get a glow in the dark ball. Dylan and Jordan finally got a guitar and Kyle showed Jordan a few chords. I got some adorable salt and pepper shakers that are from the 40's and after eating the popcorn packing, Larry was thrilled to find some vintage shot glasses. Anyway, as usual we go overboard, but what can you do, it's Christmas!

Christmas Eve Festivities

2009-01-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

It has been a very busy season, between food drives and endless cooking and family traditions. I wouldn't trade any of it but, it's nice to have some down time. We are a family of traditions, but I won't bore you with the details. The one staple during our holiday is Christmas Eve at Grandpa's house. We pack WAY too many people in his small house (more and more every year) and it is chaotic, crazy, and very Christmassy! I made a Buche de Noel (yule log) and some other goodies as well as my yearly Seven Layer Dip. We had around 40 people there this year. We ate, laughed and just spent time together. It was great, as it always is. I cannot say enough about how grateful I am for this wonderful family I have the privilege of being part of.

Pumpkin Trifle Recipe (at Lia's request)

2008-11-29T11:33:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am tired of making pumpkin pie and only a couple of pieces get eaten because I make so many desserts, pumpkin pie is last on the list. You can't have a Thanksgiving dinner without something pumpkin, so I decided to try this Pumpkin Trifle, courtesy of Paul Dean. You know if she made it, it must be decadent and delicious. I have to say that "oh my goodness, this was sooooooo yummy!" Lia requested I post the recipe, so here you go Lia. Sorry, this will probably blow your points right out of the water!

Pumpkin Trifle

Ingredients

2 (14-ounce) packages gingerbread mix
1 (5.1-ounce) box cook-and-serve vanilla pudding mix
1 (30-ounce) can pumpkin pie filling
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 teaspoon ground cardamom or cinnamon
1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping
1/2 cup gingersnaps, optional

Directions

Bake the gingerbread according to the package directions; cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the pudding and set aside to cool. Stir the pumpkin pie filling, sugar, and cardamom into the pudding. Crumble 1 batch of gingerbread into the bottom of a large, pretty bowl. Pour 1/2 of the pudding mixture over the gingerbread, then add a layer of whipped topping. Repeat with the remaining gingerbread, pudding, and whipped topping. Sprinkle of the top with crushed gingersnaps, if desired. Refrigerate overnight. Trifle can be layered in a punch bowl.

Family Bowling

2008-11-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

I am way behind on family activities, but I had to post the pictures of family bowling. This is a tradition we are trying to start to get everyone together. We all laugh a lot and believe me we are not heading for the Pro Bowlers Tour any time soon, but it is a great way to visit and spend some quality family time. I love the antics of Robert (code name Cobra) and Chris. You can tell Jordan just loves hanging with them. Michael was quite entertaining as well with his unorthodox yet somehow successful bowling style. I love watching the little ones too and it was great that the Jones Family made it. Kelly just had a baby. What a trooper! Also, this just happened to fall around Jordan's birthday, so we brought a cake too (Real Salt Lake, of course). This was the best turn out so far with 22 (I think) family members coming. We definitely have to do this a lot sooner again. I just can't get enough of this great family I have!

A Present for Larry

2008-11-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

OK, I have had the worst day ever so I had to post something light and funny. My husband is a wonderfully amusing man with a great sense of humor. He has a friend named "bling" (not her real name, but a well earned nickname). She is on his fire team. She sent him this lovely present (at his request) through the mail. I think Larry must think he is modeling for Peterman's Outdoor Magazine or something. Maybe he is hoping to be discovered by a modeling agency. At any rate, when he sent me these pictures, I couldn't stop laughing. He really is hilarious and quite the "thinker" obviously. Anyway, I had to share these. What a wacky man and what a hard worker! He is most definitely doing very difficult things at work, important things, things that require so much attention...yeah, sure, OK.

One Revolution

2008-11-05T15:41:00.000-08:00

Today was an awe inspiring day. It will be hard to top this one. I set up an assembly for Hunter Junior High and invited para Olympian Chris Waddell to come and talk to the students. This is the most remarkable man I have had the privilege to meet. Let me just give you some of his bio and you will see what I mean. Also, watch the video on my Blog.
Chris broke his back ski racing in college. Others would have given up, but Chris learned to monoski and was named to the US Disabled Ski Team. In 1994 he swept all four skiing events at the Paralympics in Lillehammer, Norway and if that wasn't enough, he won silver at the track World Championships in Berlin. He also won a gold and two silver medals in Nagano AND a gold and bronze at the track World Championships in England. he has more medals in skiing than any male in history. He was the first Paralympic finalist for the Sullivan Award, which is given by the Amateur Athletic Union, to the top amateur athlete in the country, and Chris was inducted into the Disabled Hall of Fame. Skiing Magazine named him one of "The 25 Greatest Skiers in North America." The Dalai Lama honored him as an "Unsung Hero of Compassion" in 2006.
His latest project is called "One Revolution." Its intention is to shine the light back on the disabled community — to show that if you take the time to look, you might be surprised. To do this, Chris intends to make the first unassisted summit, by a paraplegic, of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. He and his team will land in Africa in February of 2009.
His talk to the students today was about "labeling." He showed them a video of his skiing and then came out on stage after. He asked them if seeing the video changed their view of him? Everyone agreed, had they not seen the video he would just be a man in a wheelchair. He encouraged the students to be who they really are and not be labeled. He told them to also really see people for who they are and get past the exterior. He also told them they could do anything they wanted to do, that there was hidden talent and hidden genius in all of them. They should strive to make it known. Chris wants this notoriety, not for himself, but for disabled people everywhere. He is working to provide wheelchairs for the people of Tanzania and other places that have no means. Some of these people wear flip flops on their hands and drag themselves around all day because they have NO WAY to get around. He considers this accident a gift and said he has been able to do far more because of his disability. Ironic, huh?
This man moved me to tears and the students were enraptured by his talk. He was open and funny and very profound. I feel so very honored to have been able to meet him and it was such a once in a lifetime experience for these kids. I hope they took a little of what he said away with them. If it touched and inspired even one student it was worth it. Today was a very good day!

Halloweens Past

2008-10-29T17:33:00.000-07:00

I was looking at Stacy's blog and seeing the Mario costume reminded me of the time Dylan and Jordan dressed as Mario and Luigi. This sent me on a quest for pictures of Halloweens past. I could have spent all night looking at pictures, but here are just a few. I noticed that the kids really like being football players! Kyle is obviously Mister Drama. Can you believe that is Larry in the Gene Simmons costume? I told you he used to be rail thin! Anyway, this was a fun trip down memory lane!

White Men CAN Jump

2008-10-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

It is true that Larry and I are soccer fanatics, but we absolutely love to watch volleyball as well. We had the opportunity to watch Kyle play in a 3 v 3 tournament at the U on Saturday and it was so much fun. It was nice to spend time with Kyle and I miss all of the volleyball tournaments we used to go to when Kyle was in Junior Olympics. I will say, that he really has gotten stronger and his kills are amazing. The boy is so talented, if I do say so myself. I can't wait to watch more! Kyle knows I am his biggest fan.

Trick or Treat Street

2008-10-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

Once again, our soccer team dressed up and volunteered at Trick or Treat Street. Everyone had a great time, including Larry and I, when we weren't having to play "the enforcers!" You know how it is when you mix teenage boys with teenage girls! Add unlimited candy, a secluded atmosphere, and costumes to the mix and you are bound to have your hands full as chaperons. It really wasn't as bad as all that! I can't believe how much Dylan absolutely loves this and he gets into character like you wouldn't believe. He was yelling "rock on" at the trick or treaters as he gave out candy. The boy is a hard worker too. He really took his job seriously. Jordan was terrific as the Joker and there were lots of Batman's around yelling at him "I'm going to get you, Joker!" He was really good with the little kids and commented on their costumes as he gave out candy. He really likes hanging with his soccer coach too, talking about futsol and sports in general. Larry was "hot" as a biker dude. Some would say this was not a far stretch for him since I have been told before that they called him "scary Larry" when they first saw him. Once you get to know him, you realize he is a big teddy bear with a heart of gold. I was a hippy, which really isn't much of a stretch for me either. Sadly, I found I had most of my costume already in my wardrobe. AND it was items I wear all the time (not together though). I guess I am the perfect candidate for "What not to Wear." Anyway, fun and craziness was had by all, and WAY too much candy!

Hubby Tag

2008-10-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Debbie...

1.What is your husband's name? Larry Patrick Garahana ("Big Man" to Jordan and "Larry Bear" to me among other things)
2. How long have you been married? 18 3/4 years
3. How long did you date before getting married? 2 years
4. How old is he? He is 46.
5. Who is taller? Larry- although if I wear heels, he is the perfect kissing height.
6. Who can sing better? I love to sing (used to be in a band) but, I love Larry's voice. I think he sings WAY better.
7. Who is smarter? I am more logical in some situations but, Larry has me beat in so many areas. He is the voice of reason lots of times. Discuss grammar, literature and the like and I am the winner. If it is science, engineering and the like he is the winner for sure. Between us we are well rounded.
8. Who does the laundry? Me the majority of the time, but if there aren't outdoor duties for Larry to do, he pitches in just as much.
9. Who pays the bills? I do
10. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? If you face the bed, Larry sleeps on the right side.
11. Who mows the lawn? Larry, the yard is his baby!
12. Who cooks dinner? I do 99% of the time. Larry will pitch in if I am not feeling well. He just doesn't have as many dishes in his repertoire!
13. Who is the first to admit they're wrong? This is a tough one because we are both very good at admitting when we have messed up. No problems there.
14. Who kissed who first? I made the first move, but Larry sure did kiss me right back!
15. Who wears the pants? It depends on the situation. I am the homework police, but Larry backs me up. The rest of the time we are really a united front and no one really wears the pants alone. It's more fun when you share.
Whew, done with that! Now I tag Angie, Stacy, and Erica......

Handy Breakfast Recipe

2008-10-20T06:59:00.000-07:00

I don't know what the official name of these breakfast egg cups is, but they are handy and so good. My kids were so excited to wake up to the smell of them yesterday morning. I make a ton of them because they are handy for a quick breakfast on school days. Store the leftovers in a gallon ziplock in the refrigerator. You just microwave them for 20 seconds and they are ready to eat. Here is the recipe:

Breakfast Egg Muffins/Quiches

12 eggs

package of Stovetop Stuffing

1 package of bacon, sausage, or ham cubes

1 cup of grated cheese (I use cheddar)

Preheat your oven to 400. Grease a 12 cup muffin tin. These will stick if you don't grease the tin really well. I always use cooking spray and then margarine and I never have any trouble. Prepare stuffing mix as package directs in the microwave. Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Add cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or ham. Add the stuffing. Add the cheese. Spoon into muffin tins. Bake for 20 minutes. Pop the muffins out of the tins while they are still hot. Enjoy! They won't last!

Ana's Shower

2008-10-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

I am very behind in blogging, so today is marathon blog day! Yesterday was Ana Schooley's baby shower. I am the family party planner; a job I take very seriously! I get stressed over these things because I am a perfectionist, but I do love to party plan. I love the cooking and the game planning, as well as the crafts I end up making because nothing out there seems to match my vision of how I want things to look. The menu was beef noodle soup, Mexican corn and chicken chowder, mini quiches, bread sticks, layered salad (delicious concoction that my sister-in-law Deeann provided), mini cheesecakes, and a "dream" cake. Julie made a really delicious punch. That recipe is a keeper! Ana's theme was Baby Looney Tunes and it was quite the challenge finding things. Thank goodness for the internet! I made a diaper cake as the center piece with a giant Lola for the topper. She provided great company for my drive over to Julie's house, since she rode in the front seat of my packed car. She was leaning on my shoulder at one point while I was driving! I need a catering truck! The matching game was a highlight because it was fun to see Savannah and Joann participating as well. We all laughed at the candy bar prizes that went with the match. For example if you matched the word contractions, you got "whoppers" as a prize.

These things are always a production (and I love the craziness) but, I couldn't pull it off without the behind the scenes help. My family are always guinea pigs for my recipes. Larry helped make favors, made the title for my game board, and packed my car. Everyone pitches in to make it a successful event. I married into a wonderful family and I feel so fortunate. I love hangingout with them all and that may be the thing I look forward to the most when I plan these events. It is just an excuse to get together, laugh, eat (a lot), and catch up. I am sad when it is all over, not just because I have to leave everyone, but because I always leave my kitchen in a state of disaster and have to come home and deal with that. I had the most wonderful surprise when I came home. Larry had cleaned up my whole terrible mess ( frosting globs and all) AND he had put away all of the laundry. Like the punch recipe, that man is a keeper! So is the whole Garahana family! Love you all tons!!!

New Real Stadium

2008-10-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

I'm sure bloggers and die hard soccer fans all over Utah, who had the opportunity to go to the first game in the new stadium, have weighed in on the first game at the Rio Tinto stadium. So, I now join their ranks! The stadium was beautiful, sparkly, new, and there is not a bad seat in the house! The concessions, however need work. Jordan was all excited to have hot wings. In fact he read all of the choices in the paper ahead of time and that was what he planned on. Unfortunately, the employees at that concession did not show up for work and the staff at the stadium had to take over at the last minute. Needless to say, no wings. So, on to choice number two and Dylan's first choice, pizza! Guess what? It was a 35 minute wait for pizza. So, Dylan and Jordan were "forced" to eat nachos at Chili Verde. Of course, they did still have pizza later. They did run out of peperoni! It was nippy weather, so hot chocolate sounded good to me. That was apparently a "hot" commodity as well. They had one hot chocolate machine at the concession and everyone was ordering the same thing. Twenty minutes later, I finally had my hot chocolate! Planning, people! Planning! OK, so I am starting to sound food obsessed which is far from true when it comes to stadium food. Usually we eat before we go, but we were trying to get into the spirit of the new stadium (and help with funding). Enough about the food. The game was mediocre. As least we didn't lose. A tie did seem rather anticlimactic though. The pictures of players on the jumbo tron of the old stadium and Jason Kreis playing would have brought any Real fanatic to tears. The highlight of the evening besides snuggling up to Larry "to keep warm" was the crazy shuttle ride back to the car. The driver was "no holds barred" and drove like a New York City taxi driver. He was hilarious too, talking to the other drivers and proclaiming that they better get out of his way because "I am bigger than you!" It was a fun evening and Dylan and Jordan really loved it. It was soccer, so of course Larry and I loved it too! It's been a long and controversial time coming, but it sure is nice to have a new soccer stadium. I do, however, miss the yardage marks from Rice Eccles. "And he could go all the way, from the 40, the 30, the 20.....GOAL!!!!!!!"

2008-09-22T09:58:00.001-07:00

2008-09-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Better late than never! This is a picture of the first day of school. Don't you just love the attire? Can you tell Dylan and Jordan are a couple of "rockers?"

2008-09-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

My wonderful "Buckethead Boys" really enjoyed the Real game and the KFC buckets!

2008-09-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

"The Maestro" performing with the Hunter Junior High Jazz Band during the "Hot Dog Hello."

Golf Graduates!!!!

2008-09-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I signed Dylan and Jordan up for golf lessons. After all, when Dylan is wheeling and dealing over his software patents when he becomes a high powered executive, it can't hurt to do your negotiating on the golf course! Joe, on the other hand, probably has aspirations of becoming the next Tiger Woods! This was the best $25.00 I have ever spent!The program is called Tee-off for Teens and it included eight 2-hour lessons at West Ridge Golf Course, free meals, prizes along the way, and at the end of the lessons they each received a bag and set of custom clubs, at no extra charge!!! Graduation was the final night and after a "banquet" of pizza and breadsticks, we watched them get their clubs. Dylan also won an award for closest to the pin (chipping). Then, with Larry chauffeuring, we watched the boys play 4 holes of golf. I got to see a great deal of scenery during those holes; water, trees, sand, weeds etc. Also, the golf course has some very nice scenery, but as you can see from the pictures, the loveliest scenery includes a marvelous view of the industrial side of West Valley! Since they were the oldest, Dylan and Jordan were among the first group out so they got to tee off in front of a large group of parents. Talk about nerve wracking! I know I couldn't do it. Along with some wicked slices on Dylan's part and a fair amount of worm burners (from both of them), they did hit a few good shots. They both had the wonderful experience of hitting out of the sand trap, and did pretty darn well at that! Even though they won't be joining the pro-am tour any time soon, Dylan and Joe both have fallen in love with the game and I'm sure there will be some rounds with Larry and Grandpa in the future. I think some more practice on the driving range and some putting might be in order first, otherwise 9 holes could take all day!!! At any rate, I am proud of them both for really taking this seriously and sticking with it. Now they are all set for corporate world!!!

Salt Lake Get Fit May Kill Us Yet!!!

2008-08-31T22:33:00.000-07:00

So, the saga continues in The Wanna'bes quest to beat the "Dairy Men" but, I never thought our lives would be in jeopardy over our competitive spirits. Michelle (Thelma to my Louise) and I decided to walk at Memory Grove/ City Creek Canyon today. Yes, it was raining like crazy and Michelle's husband made some reference to tornadoes before she left the house, but we would not be swayed! When we got to Memory Grove it had stopped raining and the wind had stopped blowing. It was actually a nice temperature for walking. Michelle and I were happily enjoying the sites and I was filling her in on the notorious reputation of Memory Grove when we heard a loud C-R-A-C-K! Michelle screamed "Stephanie!" I looked up in time to see a gigantic tree falling right on us! Michelle sprinted to safety and I guess I was slower than her because she was terrified the tree had landed on me. Really I was just making sure I didn't end up like a cartoon character (Wile E Coyote comes to mind) who runs directly into the path of the falling tree and is smashed into a pancake! When I say we NARROWLY escaped, I am not exaggerating! Michelle and I hugged each other and laughed hysterically (because we were hysterical!) There was a lady behind us and another tree had fallen and nearly hit her. She ran because she heard us scream. We decided that was enough exercise for one evening and also paranoia had set in, it seemed as though all of the trees there were about to fall. On a humorous note, the lady behind us thought Michelle and I were a couple! I think it might have had to do with it being Memory Grove and the fact that we were hugging each other. That is the closest I have ever come to a terrifying accident like that. It was surreal! Even Michelle's night driving wasn't as harrowing! Sorry Michelle, but when you keep saying you can't see a thing, it's a little unnerving! Whoever said that exercise was good for you, hasn't had a tree nearly fall on them! Michelle and I continue to press on as Salt Lake Get Fit comes to an end. Perhaps we are tempting fate to try and walk one more dangerous path, but "We are women, here us roar (or run!)"

Larry is my Home Boy!!!!

2008-08-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

I was looking through the pictures I have taken recently and came across this picture of Larry. It just inspired me (along with Aunt Sherlene and John's 50th wedding anniversary yesterday) to take a few minutes to talk about my wonderfully funny life companion. We women may grumble now and again about men! After all, they are foreign to us of the female persuasion. I shake my head when I come into a room and see Larry intensely watching two men pummel each other during Ultimate Fighting. Of course, Jordan and Kyle are right there too if they happen to be aware it is on. (Dylan is off on the computer.)My comment is always, Oh no, not more man TV! Of course, Larry keeps reminding me that I have "Television for Women." I know he is referring to Lifetime and O. Seriously, I like a good boxing match as well, but the extreme fighting, extreme eating, extreme gross stuff, and general extreme stupidity is sometimes too much to watch. But, men love this!!! I digress. Despite this love of the extreme, Larry is definitely a Man for All Seasons. Don't let his gruff exterior fool you. Underneath is a loving, caring, truly funny man that loves to laugh hard, play hard, and work out hard! He is a dedicated and committed father. He is sentimental at times which may surprise some. He writes love messages and hides them under paint, in furniture he has constructed, and throughout various places in the house for people to find many years down the road. Then they will discover his proclamation of love for me. Pretty sweet, huh? He has planted me a surprise rose garden for mother's day, carved me a jewelery box for our Anniversary (complete with hearts and the date on it), and made me jewelery. I could go on, but you get the picture. I am shameless in my quickness to volunteer him for projects for school. He has made the appreciation banners for our librarian for years just to mention one of the many projects. He doesn't ever complain. In my defense, he is such a gifted artist, I can't help but want to put his talents to good use. I also think he is "hot." He makes fun of me because I think he is sexy when he bowls, roller blades (he is soooo smooth), plays soccer, and says the word "cooler." Actually, I feel that way most all of the time when he is around. No one else could put up with my Type A personality and embrace it like he does. It is good he is pretty low key because otherwise our house would be an asylum! He is the yin to my yang. (How mushy can I get?) And yes, it drives me crazy that he can sleep through ANYTHING!!!! But, he is my very best friend who loves me unconditionally, supports me through everything, laughs genuinely at my humor and sarcasm, thinks I am beautiful even when I have food on my face, and will happily spend the day with me doing anything I have a whim to do. I just really think I don't say it enough how much I love and appreciate my Geo Dude! "Larry, you is my man!"

Super Soccer Week!!!!

2008-08-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

So, if you know the Garahana family at all, you know we are all about sports and especially SOCCER!!! That could be because Jordan plays and Larry coaches. Anyway, we had a tournament this week and I must say, it was full of drama, intensity, and a little sleepiness (8:00 game yesterday). We played a total of 5 games and even when we weren't playing our best, we didn't seem to have too much trouble UNTIL the finals! We played Razzia, a team with a couple of extremely fast forwards. We had our work cut out for us. We only had 1 sub and the game was at 1:00 in the afternoon, not exactly the coolest time of day to play. I sat next to my friend Lia and that always provides some extra entertainment. We were both so tense though, all we could do was try not to have an accident in our chairs! The game apparently caused overactive bladder syndrome!!! Lia didn't yell at the refs once which is good for her, although she really does make it more exciting when she does. There was so much drama in this game. Parents on the other team had to be warned for getting out of control. Half time hit at just the right time because Jordan was having issues with a very large blond boy he was battling with. He came off the field ready to explode but, luckily cooled off at the half and didn't do anything he would regret later. What can I say, he has his mother's temper. After a tie in regular game play, we had two 5 minute overtimes where we were still tied! Oh No!!! It went to a shoot out! Talk about a nail biter!!! Luckily, we didn't have to go to all five players and won it with the fourth shot. We came away with the win and the championship medal. Let me just say, our boys do really know how to celebrate! Girls have nothing on them in the final moments of a celebratory situation! Talk about drama, theatrics, and emotion, not to mention a little Brandi Chastain shirt peeling! This group of boys really are just terrific to be around and I am so glad Jordan is a part of this team. They are like a family. USA Norris is "da bomb diggity!"

Toonces Video- Pause Music at bottom of screen to hear

2008-08-15T08:56:00.001-07:00

via videosift.com

The Creepy Cat Lady!

2008-08-15T08:10:00.001-07:00

Sorry, I have been too busy to blog lately and I have quite a lot to write about, but I have to share this story first because it was so bizarre! All I could think when it was happening was, no one will believe this! As I have shared in the past, I am on Team Wanna'bes for Salt Lake Get Fit. In our undying quest to beat the dairy men of the valley, Michelle and I decided to walk at the Old Salt Lake Cemetery to get extra points. Let me first say that this is a great place to go and very distracting if you are trying to just focus and get your heart rate up! There are way too many interesting headstones to read. While Michelle and I were looking for her relative's headstone (like I said, we were easily distracted), this lady appeared from behind a headstone. That wasn't so bizarre in and of itself except she was walking a cat on a leash AND the cat came up to us like it was a dog! She asked us if we were looking for someone in particular because she comes there all the time to walk her cat and she knows where everyone is! We said we were just looking (I felt like I was shopping and didn't want the sales person to bother me). Michelle was now completely creeped out and started backing away. I was more curious and thought she was just a lonely "cat lady." I didn't really have much time to find out more about her because Michelle kept saying "Let's get out of here. She is freaking me out!" I think Michelle was worried that the lady was a ghost or something. We continued our walk and now we had plenty to speculate about. When we were near the end of our trek, we watched a car drive by and the crazy cat lady had the cat on her lap looking out the window while she was driving. It did look like the cat was driving at first! Hence, the video I have attached, Toonces the Cat That Could Drive A Car. This cat looked exactly like the cat from Saturday Night Live. Any how, enjoy the video and if you have a chance, visit the Historic Salt Lake City Cemetery. You too could have an encounter with a crazy cat lady! Maybe the cat will even come up to you and wag its tail!

New Arrivals at the Garahana House!

2008-07-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. Some of you were probably speculating as to what the new arrivals could be? Obviously, unless we are adopting (not happening), a baby would be out of the question! No new puppies allowed either. Cracker would be crushed since he has "only child syndrome." The new additions are some baby hummingbirds that have taken up residence above our front door! They are so cute and quite messy! Who knew something that small could have such active bathroom habits! What ARE they eating??? Larry has worked so hard on our garden. I think word has spread throughout the hummingbird community that this is the "must see" spot because I cannot believe how many there are. At any rate, we are enjoying watching these tiny creatures grow. Talk about overcrowding. I don't know how they fit in that little nest! We'll be sad to see them go, but you have to let go sometime!

Hiking is Addicting!

2008-07-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

I got this brilliant idea to take advantage of the beautiful scenery Utah has to offer. OK, so I have only lived here 20 years and this has just now occurred to me. I'm a little slow, people! Larry (my willing and able partner in all of my harebrained ideas) agreed to a Sunday morning hike. We decided upon Dog Lake because in my quest to be near water, I like the sound of anything that has "lake" in it! The day was beautiful. The hike, although marked "easy" was definitely challenging! We dodged some bikers who barreled down the trail (and I saw my life flash before my eyes). The flowers were so beautiful and there were butterflies, small animals, and ravenous insects everywhere! I made a mistake and commented to Larry that I felt like I was in better shape than I had been in a while. Boy, did those words come back to haunt me! The last .6 miles of this hike are on a steep incline. I huffed and puffed, exclaiming "My kingdom for some oxygen!" My pulse pounded in my ears and to top it all off, I became paranoid about the insects whizzing around my head. It sounded like a bug airport and I was the landing strip. Now, this may give you the impression that I didn't enjoy the hike. You couldn't be more wrong! When we arrived at the lake, I felt like Rocky climbing the well known stairs! I had made it and I didn't break anything, have a heart attack, or get carried off by a large flying insect. Ironically, when we spied the lake, we noticed there were many people (including kids in strollers) which made us question how they managed to make this hike so effortlessly. Apparently, there is another way to this lake that is much easier. That's OK, we were cianotic hiking warriors!!!! Take an easier way, not us!!! We enjoyed a delicious lunch and watched the dogs swimming in the water. We felt like bad parents because we didn't bring Cracker. Of course, that probably made us responsible parents since Cracker would have annoyed the crap out of everyone. The lake was such a great spot, it was hard to leave. Of course, that may also have been because our legs were now like jelly! The trip back down was definitely easier except for my lovely prat fall over a root. Luckily, Larry inadvertently broke my Chevy Chase worthy fall and wondered why I was falling into his back! The sound of the traffic, as we got closer to civilization made me sad. It was a grueling hike for us, but it was invigorating and Larry and I immediately started making plans about where to go next. This time we went on a 3 hour hike, next time maybe we will be even more ambitious. Larry suggested we try this hike again later as a gauge as to whether our hiking fitness improves. I heartily agree. Now we get to log 3 hours of exercise for our Salt Lake Get fit. Cream O' Weber, watch your back! We're coming for you, if we can get up!!!

The Infamous Cracker Dog!

2008-07-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

I just had to put these pictures up of Cracker. I know he is just a dog, but don't tell him that. If you are ever having a bad day, just looking at Cracker's face will immediately change your mood. He is the little brother Jordan never had and he fights with him too, just like a sibling. "Mom, Cracker stepped on my foot, on purpose!" He also sleeps with him every night. He is Dylan's wrestling partner. You should have seen them on the floor the other night. If dogs could laugh, I would swear Cracker was laughing his head off! Dylan and Cracker have a love/hate relationship. Cracker will ALWAYS pick Dylan to whine at because he knows it will irritate him the most. He is the most playful with Kyle, who likes to make him run like a crazy dog through the house. I do believe though that Cracker is truly in love with Larry. The way he looks at him with such adoration, I'm wondering if I should be worried! Cracker is the family greeter whether you like it or not. He is also the look out, which is why I put up these pictures. He spends half of his day looking out of the window. As long as you leave the blinds up for him, you will have no worries. I know he is "just a dog," but I wouldn't trade him for the world.

Bonneville Shoreline/Red Butte Trail

2008-07-11T14:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Larry, Michelle, and I went on the Bonneville Shoreline/ Red Butte hike. This was to add more bonus points to our Salt lake Get Fit. Those Cream O' Weber teams are really getting to us! It's a dairy for heaven's sake. How can they amass so many points? OK, so perhaps we are getting a little too involved with this thing! Jordan passed on this hike because he was recuperating from his Velocity speed training. "Mom, it hurts to raise a sandwich to my mouth!" Leslie was stuck on the road. We timed this so we would be there for the sunset. I have to tell you, this was no leisurely walk. I had already worked out for almost 2 hours and Larry had worked out for 3! Like I said, we are a little overzealous. The trail was about as confusing as it could get. This walk was supposed to take 30 minutes and it took us at least an hour. I know we are slow, but not that slow. The communing with nature was the best though. We saw many birds, a deer, and some stink bugs (huge) that were ready to strike at the first sign of provocation! We got on the wrong trail many times even though our resident geologist was responsible for making part of this trail when he was in college. Amid all of the questions, "Where are we going? Does this seem right? Are we lost?" I have to say it was so much fun. I believe it was the witty banter of Larry and Michelle, as well as just being outside. There is nothing like some good company to make your day complete!

Salt Lake Get Fit

2008-07-11T09:13:00.001-07:00

My friend Michelle had a brilliant idea to form a team and join Salt Lake Get Fit. We are proudly called "The Wanna'bes." Our team members are Michelle, her daughter-in-law Leslie (who just had a baby), Larry (because he is game for anything), Jordan (the youth factor), and myself. Although we are getting our butts kicked by everyone, this has been a great experience. It has given us a reason to get out and MOVE. We have walked at quite a few new venues since you get points for going to different walking trails in Salt Lake. We are all more competitive than we care to admit. Even Jordan hasn't complained and I am sure he is just thrilled to be hanging out with a group of "old farts" (except Leslie). As long as you promise him a trip to Starbucks, he is in! We all look forward to our walks and we are exercising like mad so Cream O' Weber doesn't show us up too badly! The goal is the 5K in September. I hope my knees can take it.

Oh no, I'm becoming a blogger!

2008-07-11T08:17:00.000-07:00

O.K. so I have succumbed to the age of technology and have officially joined the ranks of bloggers. I tried to ignore the call, but alas, here I am blogging for the very first time. First I become an avid cell phone user and now this! What has my life come to? On the up side, at least I have a place to write that doesn't require too much preparation and angst. Today's blog may be tomorrow's great American novel. I guess you have to start somewhere! Now you have a glimpse into the lives of the Garahana Clan, whether you wanted one or not!