tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55590848894507365682012-01-24T20:52:55.535-07:00Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.comBlogger2681100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-56310184683586695192012-01-24T20:52:00.004-07:002012-01-24T20:52:55.545-07:00

I saw this on another teacher's Pinterest site and decided to copy it.  My new filing system consists of two Container Store filing boxes (brocade!) and aqua folders. In the front file box,  I have everything that I need for each subject copied and filed in the correct folder.  In the back file box, I keep extra forms, grid/dot paper, Mustang Bucks, and other papers that I might need sometime

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-36879430033815498952012-01-16T16:04:00.003-07:002012-01-16T16:07:55.927-07:00

Pinterest is an addictive, sneaky, time-sucking website.  I also suspect that it encourages envy and jealousy in some.  And, despite these negatives, I love it!  Why?  I love it because I have always wanted to make design boards like interior designers make for rooms.  Everything you want for a room is right there so you can see it - all together, not piece meal like most of my decorating is. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-5111812468560186382011-12-29T14:46:00.000-07:002011-12-29T14:46:06.060-07:00

My new duvet and shams arrived from Pottery Barn today, and I think they look great.  Not only do they look fabulous, but they also fit with my vision of what my house should "feel" like.  (I can't explain that one to Keith, though...it's too out there!)  However, buying a new duvet and shams is a little like the book If You Give a Mouse a Cookie because now I'm thinking that I would like a

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-87309127749747396142011-12-25T20:55:00.001-07:002011-12-25T20:55:04.702-07:00

 Goodbye, sun  Elk Mountain from our walking path  Wait for me!! I love walking my people.  We could do this more often if you had a coat like mine.   **This is what I assume he was trying to tell me.**

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-66392537894818549492011-12-25T20:51:00.000-07:002011-12-25T20:51:52.599-07:00

 Sadie was overjoyed to be at Vicki's house for Christmas breakfast.   Marshmallow guns were given....  ...then promptly loaded and shot at unsuspecting children.  Sadie knows how to work her people. Presents!!!!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-30383431765778955122011-12-23T05:51:00.000-07:002011-12-23T05:55:49.802-07:00

  Part of the Keith's nephew's job is setting up Christmas lights at the courthouse.  We think he did an awesome job!   **Excuse any cars that drive by, inside the car was the only place I could record both video & sound.  Plus, it's cold in Wyoming!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-5454522535046654202011-12-11T09:39:00.001-07:002011-12-11T09:42:55.044-07:00

 Blazer helped Keith get the lights plugged in and working.   Keith hung the lights from the roof while I assisted on the ground.  My job was to untangle, plug the new set into the already hung set, and scrounge up new light bulbs to replace the burnt out ones.  The finished project!  I used the power box in our yard to steady the camera, and I really like the reflection of lights on it

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-1163704513770740842011-12-11T09:25:00.000-07:002011-12-11T09:25:33.542-07:00

My pictures of last night's lunar eclipse are a little shaky, but that's to be expected when your camera is steadied on a garage door window instead of a real tripod. :)  Thanks to Dad for texting and reminding me to look outside. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-17725391501091175412011-11-13T18:51:00.000-07:002011-11-13T18:51:31.523-07:00

  This was a two-day project (3 hours, not 48!).  On day one, I cut out all the pieces and fused interfacing to the ones that needed it.  Day two was just sewing and ironing.  The picture above is the front of my sewing machine apron (that's what the pattern calls it).  After finishing the front with its superstiff pocket piece, the back was a piece of cake.  I made the rookie mistake of not

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-26823525235626010192011-11-06T16:55:00.001-07:002011-11-06T16:55:56.016-07:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-27917467011868024192011-10-22T13:52:00.001-06:002011-10-22T13:52:20.434-06:00

The chintzy kitchen faucet has been one of our biggest gripes about this house.  It had no force even when turned all the way on, so we took off the aerator.  That just caused a mess every time that I washed pots and pans in the sink.  So, this past weekend, we put the last of our Lowe's card to use and bought a new faucet.   BeforeAfter It was pretty easy to install; Keith and I had it done in

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-5052144386364580692011-10-22T08:00:00.000-06:002011-10-22T08:00:08.416-06:00

Courtesy of SLC's light rail - I love signs!Public artwork near the Gateway (outdoor shopping mall)Alas, we had to return home to our bill-paying jobs, house, and dog.  Around Park City, we saw these beautiful fall colors.  This rock formation greets you as you get close to Green River, WY.  I always wonder what it looked like thousands of years ago. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-85318547043348448772011-10-21T21:11:00.000-06:002011-10-21T21:11:40.673-06:00

  One feature of this house that Keith really loves is the fireplace.  Blazer enjoys it also, especially since it means one of his people will be down on the floor with him.   

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-47429022515016132012011-10-21T20:56:00.000-06:002011-10-21T20:56:54.947-06:00

I captured this view of our hotel on my new iPhone!  Yay for Keith for breaking down and entering an Apple store just to make his wife happy. View of the hotel's courtyard Church across the street Interior shots of the lobby and public places  We always look forward to R&R; it's a wonderful perk of Keith's job.  The accommodations are lavish, quite different from the usual Priceline rooms that

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-14143369827716199382011-10-01T20:30:00.000-06:002011-10-01T20:30:56.299-06:00

I can't believe that I forgot to post one of my favorite Boston pics.  Four lanes of interstate traffic underground...complete with exits to the surface.  So different from our interstates here in Wyoming - two lanes in each direction with exits few and far between. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-19429111760228720722011-10-01T18:13:00.000-06:002011-10-01T18:13:31.783-06:00

After a month of planning, ordering, acquiring, and worrying, I decided to take the plunge and put up the picture wall.  The idea was to decorate a rather large wall in our living room.  I've been putting it off, waiting for Keith to feel up to the challenge.  Today, I decided to just do it myself.   First, of course, I gathered my materials.  Notice the lack of a laser level...I went old

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-31530348974961079462011-08-14T15:32:00.000-06:002011-08-14T15:32:03.004-06:00

 We caught this reflection of our tour boat while passing under a bridge.Longfellow Bridge - my favorite bridge in the Boston area  The Museum of Science - I wish that we'd had time to visit this while we were in Boston. Also at the Museum of Science - what a cool place to have a wedding?  Window detail at the Boston Public Library Boston had the first paid fire department, started in 1678. This

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-55920328243714803582011-08-14T14:29:00.000-06:002011-08-14T14:29:06.982-06:00

Last night, we went to the fair for my first demolition derby.  I was shocked by the number of people there!  The derby was better attended than the free dinner sponsored by the Bank of Rawlins.  Apparently, people would rather see cars and trucks destroy each other than get a free meal.  Interesting.   Hmmm...two petroleum companies sponsored this event.  Coincidence? Part of the truck grudge

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-57765408928766755712011-08-07T08:00:00.036-06:002011-08-07T08:00:12.280-06:00

 This structure houses Plymouth Rock, protecting it from vandals and souvenir seekers. Plymouth Rock - The history of this rock is interesting.  It wasn't identified as "the" rock that the Pilgrims landed on until 1741, 120 years after the fact.  The current structure was built around it in 1920.  Between 1740 and 1920, the rock was moved, broken, carved, and chipped away for souvenirs.   

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-75256354241930438032011-08-06T16:40:00.000-06:002011-08-06T16:40:31.781-06:00

 Portland Head Light - This is the first lighthouse completed after the federal government took over control of lighthouses in 1789.  It was finished in 1790 and has been running ever since.  Lighthouse keepers and their families lived there until 1989 when lighthouses were automated.  Since then, the town of Cape Elizabeth has taken over the lighthouse and built a museum and gift shop at this

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-59437765040581774262011-08-06T15:15:00.001-06:002011-08-06T15:17:07.412-06:00

 Pre-game socializing Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium currently in use; it was built in 1912 with a capacity of 35,000.  The Red Sox have sold out over 600 consecutive home game sellouts.  WOW!  Our seats were about 3 rows from the top of the outfield stands.  Binoculars were our best choice for seeing details. Since I was at this game with 4 electricians, the light stands were a topic

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-55893008559526977332011-08-02T17:49:00.000-06:002011-08-02T17:49:05.734-06:00

 Entry - I still need a rug, curtain, and mirror. The master bedroom - I especially love the garbage bag "curtains."  They add that certain something to the room.  The living room - Most of this room is still under construction because we're waiting for the cable and internet to be installed, but I did set up this bookshelf.   The sunroom - This is officially called the 'Three-Season Room.' 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-33077810162288700532011-08-02T17:20:00.000-06:002011-08-02T17:20:53.588-06:00

Our backyard reminds me of the passage from Matthew 13 about the farmer sowing his seed.  We have rocky soil which allows the seed to sprout up but not grow to be healthy.   Speaking of rocky soil, these are the larger rocks that were removed from our property during construction.  We plan on using them as landscaping rocks...maybe?

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-65839629775828667602011-07-22T09:05:00.000-06:002011-07-22T09:05:45.326-06:00

  It has a two-car garage; I've never parked my car in a garage (other than paid parking, of course!). The living room has a TV nook above the fireplace with windows on either side.  Bonus:  the windows have screens! The kitchen is HUGE with brand-new appliances, super-sized drawers, and a lazy Susan.  Off the kitchen to the right is the laundry room and...wait for it........... a half bath.  The

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-81708046406095577802011-06-24T11:25:00.000-06:002011-06-24T11:25:56.587-06:00

When we went out to get the paper this morning, we were greeted with this.  Sniff, sniff...

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-86801080414120735522011-06-17T09:56:00.000-06:002011-06-17T09:56:25.833-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-15301583615889605862011-06-10T18:06:00.000-06:002011-06-10T18:06:19.537-06:00

I finally made new pillows for the couch.  My design was a little more ambitious than my sewing ability, but I pulled most of it off.  I quilted around some of the flowers (it doesn't show up in pictures) and inserted a zipper.  I even got the measurements correct; the cases fit the 24 inch forms perfectly.  The only thing that I left off was the cording around the edges.  It added another layer

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-30614109090540335952011-06-05T21:05:00.000-06:002011-06-05T21:05:21.411-06:00

 Before painting the concrete, our house looked a little sad and neglected.   After painting, it looks much more inviting.  And yes, it took the better part of two days to finish the job - scraping, cleaning with a wire brush, powerwashing, and, finally, painting. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-27009673292398363822011-05-22T18:18:00.000-06:002011-05-22T18:18:59.095-06:00

 My tulips are starting to open up! So pretty!! Gerbera daisy pot Petunias, pansies, and marigolds Flower bed with daisies, zinnias, and strawflowers Garden bed with carrots, strawberries, rosemary, oregano, and peppersContainer tomatoes

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-5425617148610347132011-05-18T18:35:00.001-06:002011-05-18T18:48:44.426-06:00

This is a Wordle from my blog.  Basically, the program takes all of the words from a text, arranges them in an arty way, and gives prominence the words that appear most often.  I also did a Wordle of the Cake Wrecks blog, but I don't know how they would feel about me posting that here!   I think I'm going to use this with my 5th graders in the next few weeks.  Hmmm...maybe we'll create a Wordle

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-43129076302319132142011-05-11T09:00:00.000-06:002011-05-11T09:00:03.909-06:00

In Wyoming, there's no use for kickstands; the wind will just blow your bike right over anyway. Sunday, it was finally warm enough to bring out the bikes so Keith and I rode around town with our fearless canine in tow.  He's pretty good about trotting alongside Keith's bike without a leash.  However, don't expect him to speed up.  He will go his own speed, and that's that!  We rode over to a

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-5621035175424352502011-05-11T08:00:00.000-06:002011-05-11T08:00:07.297-06:00

 Last fall's work can finally be seen!  My tulips are coming up in the beds in front of the house.  I can't wait to see the flowers because I forgot what I planted. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-72782273818498916362011-05-10T16:12:00.001-06:002011-05-10T16:22:43.124-06:00

While we were in Las Vegas, Keith took a helicopter ride over Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.  He rode with a pair from Austria (yes, Austria) who were touring the US on motorcycles.  The Colorado River Lake Mead - You can see a marina in the bottom left-hand corner of the picture.  This is the new bridge that bypasses Hoover Dam.  It's nice - 2 lanes in each direction with no space for looky-loos!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-77516750782700208282011-05-07T20:15:00.003-06:002011-05-08T08:56:46.654-06:00

Ceiling installation in the elevator area of AriaBetween Aria and a neighboring shopping area (with stores that us mere mortals can't afford:  Tiffany, Harry Winston, Prada, Versace, etc...) Light fixture from Mandalay Bay - there were all different sizes of this design and others that coordinated perfectly.  Paris Casino & HotelWalkway to Eiffel TowerWe took these last few pictures while walking

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-89340814648848281932011-04-30T12:47:00.000-06:002011-04-30T12:47:57.989-06:00

 While in Vegas, we saw the Blue Man Group at the Venetian.  They were very entertaining for a group that spends an hour and a half performing without speaking.   Elvis!! We also saw the Viva Elvis Cirque du Soleil show at our hotel, Aria.  Viva Elvis showcased Elvis' music from his early days until his Las Vegas comeback in the 70's.  It combined music with dancing and acrobatics.  The best part

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-65486413342012316692011-04-21T16:59:00.001-06:002011-04-21T17:00:02.763-06:00

 It was a partly cloudy, windy day at the Grand Canyon, but we managed to take quite a few pictures. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-89475156178347256222011-04-21T16:49:00.001-06:002011-04-21T17:04:21.125-06:00

 Built in 1914, Lookout Studio was designed by Mary Jane Colter.  She built 5 structures on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and decorated El Tovar lodge.    Hopi House was also designed by Mary Jane Colter.  It was built in 1905.   In addition to the buildings on the South Rim, Colter also designed Phantom Ranch which is at the bottom of the canyon.   Duh!  We noticed that on some signs, the

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-70199859506614533482011-04-19T17:12:00.001-06:002011-04-19T17:12:51.045-06:00

Here's an example of the cable that they used to cart things in and out of the construction site. This model shows the flow of electricity from the dam to homes in the area. Below is a model of the dam during construction.  We walked down this concrete tunnel to the grate in the picture below.  The next picture is the view from the grate.   These two pictures were taken deep inside the dam.  They

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-1481130668709377202011-04-18T20:04:00.000-06:002011-04-18T20:04:41.889-06:00

No trip to Vegas is complete without viewing the Bellagio Fountains.  We actually went to watch them twice - once on our first night there and again on our last night where we watched from the top of the Eiffel Tower. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-40796471097685519212011-04-18T18:01:00.000-06:002011-04-18T18:01:34.123-06:00

 For our week in Las Vegas, we stayed at the Aria in City Center.  It's located in the middle of the strip, near the Mandarin and the Cosmopolitan.  Keith was sold on this hotel when he found out that it's new (finished in 2009) and super-high tech.   The two pictures above show the living room area of  our suite.  Yes, suite.  When we got there at 12:30 am, our reserved city view room was gone

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-34231594178747899632011-03-28T19:16:00.000-06:002011-03-28T19:16:53.353-06:00

Much to hubby's dismay, I went to Hobby Lobby today.  Oh, Hobby Lobby, why do you torture me with all of your unbridled creativity and limitless amount of projects?  Everything I see in there, I think, I could do that. But today, good sense prevailed and I only bought material for new couch pillows.  True, I did make new pillows a few weeks ago, but after putting them on the chocolate brown

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-23217070074160856222011-03-25T15:02:00.000-06:002011-03-25T15:02:50.042-06:00

Even my jaded 5th graders thought this video was cute. 

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-53478937335076006932011-03-20T09:06:00.000-06:002011-03-20T09:06:56.125-06:00

 My new sewing machine is finally out of the box.  Keith swears that I bought it because it's a "Project Runway" edition. Not true!!  I've been wanting a new one for a while and just happened to see this one at Walmart last weekend.  50 stitches - All you have to do is choose the correct sewing foot and press the foot pedal.   It came with a variety of sewing feet, including one for creating

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-44548226070527761522011-03-16T17:03:00.004-06:002011-03-16T17:04:59.008-06:00

<br/><a href="http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/sleeping-puppy-dreaming/1jrvt9h8b?src=v5:embed:&fg=sharenoembed" target="_new"title="Sleeping Puppy Dreaming">Video: Sleeping Puppy Dreaming</a>

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-88942208070309588252011-03-05T10:57:00.002-07:002011-03-05T11:03:29.736-07:00

The Daily Show - Crisis in Dairyland - Angry Curds Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook Sorry about the bleeped profanity, but I had to post this since The Daily Show has been on a roll this week.  I'm fairly sure that none of these people have been in a school in the last 10 years since No Child Left Untested Behind began.  Also, I'd be

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-35449621794863363632011-03-05T10:21:00.000-07:002011-03-05T10:21:52.850-07:00

The Daily Show - Crisis in Dairyland - Message for Teachers Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-50782818498300166962011-03-03T16:33:00.001-07:002011-03-03T16:34:43.650-07:00

No one ever believes me when I tell them that my mom watched "The Ren & Stimpy Show." I wonder why?

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-3371724115105826742011-02-27T18:05:00.000-07:002011-02-27T18:05:45.707-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day from sweet hubby Keith, Blazer, and Molly frolicking on the ice while on our walk today.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-22548716528710839572011-02-25T14:50:00.000-07:002011-02-25T14:50:50.805-07:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-60500998906393706802011-02-06T17:12:00.004-07:002011-02-06T17:30:11.397-07:00

It snowed twice last week, so I decided to help my person clear the walkways. Here I am rolling in the snow. It looks like I'm playing, but this is a very important part of snow removal - I'm actually packing down the snow so it doesn't blow back onto the cleared areas. After packing the snow down, I checked for any impurities deep in the snow. This takes a very sensitive snow-nose and

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-557600885279414172011-01-20T18:49:00.002-07:002011-01-20T18:57:45.895-07:00

Views from my windowsCommon area furnishingsMy super-huge SMARTboard!My classroom (in the unpacking stage)

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-9457166607752406952011-01-09T11:13:00.003-07:002011-01-09T11:27:43.093-07:00

Thanks, Mom & Dad! I've only had time to make one meal (sliders) but this is an awesome present. I can't wait to use it for panninis, breakfast, and other stuff. The grilling plates are so much easier to clean up than my frying pan and I love that the grease drips into the little cup at the bottom. But, I think the best thing about this might just be that it cooks things quickly - so quickly,

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-62579187864633247042011-01-02T18:44:00.005-07:002011-01-02T18:55:40.332-07:00

The big winner this year? Obviously, it's Blazer who learned how to jump onto hotel beds without reservation. He only slept on the floor when the bed got too hot!Back in Wyoming, land of the blowing snowKeith's Christmas toolbox - Thanks, Mom & Dad!My new earrings - Thanks, Keith!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-23023127603172282692010-12-23T09:18:00.002-07:002010-12-23T09:20:51.280-07:00

New, fluffy, clean snow is this dog's pure joy!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-10644397688681562622010-12-22T13:12:00.004-07:002010-12-23T09:18:12.244-07:00

Now that school is out for Christmas, I have time to sew. My first project was a curtain for my kitchen window. Before, the window was covered with a simple curtain that I made from a calico print bought from the only store in town that sells fabric. I backed my curtain material with a simple cream colored cotton (cheap sheets from Target!).Then, I added pockets at the top and bottom for my

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-29125577030042151752010-12-18T09:59:00.004-07:002010-12-18T10:12:38.352-07:00

It starts with 4 simple ingredients: peanut butter, vanilla, butter, and powdered sugar. Cook the butter and peanut butter for 4 minutes in the microwave.Stir in the sugar. Just keep stirrin', just keep stirrin'. Pour the mixture into buttered 8x8 pans lined with waxed paper. Then chill until firm.I learned this trick after my first pan: let the cooled pan sit in warm water for a few minutes.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-4614214751388043912010-12-09T18:48:00.007-07:002010-12-09T19:11:53.327-07:00

2010 Christmas Tree - a Grand FirBlazer, our ever-present "helper"Now for a stroll now Christmas Ornament Memory Lane...From Parris Island & Billy's Marine graduationOne of my all-time favorites from Pier One - they have new designs every year. So far I only have 5 of them.Maine MooseYellowstone NPPolar Bear ornament from the San Diego ZooAnother from my Pier One collection"I know you're having

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-11170303655978896442010-12-06T20:43:00.006-07:002010-12-06T20:50:50.339-07:00

Be quiet even if your kid isn't on stage singing. There are others in the audience who would like to hear their kids, too. Seriously!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-9476307497372216802010-11-21T16:39:00.004-07:002010-11-21T16:53:11.522-07:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-56995022198062185902010-11-16T21:43:00.004-07:002010-11-16T21:51:52.874-07:00

Keith and I reenacted the Seinfeld episode where Kramer test-drives a car and says to the salesman, "Let's see what the E really means!" We left home with half of a tank of gas and rolled into Safeway in Laramie with no gas (according to our gauge). In the CR-V, E means 1.7 gallons left. Casa Bonita: More sopapillas, please!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-82961181287070747212010-11-16T21:21:00.004-07:002010-11-16T21:40:37.292-07:00

This weekend, we traveled to Colorado to celebrate a birthday. After a quick stop at Chuck E Cheese to sing to the birthday boy, Keith and I headed on to the Denver Art Museum to check out the King Tut exhibit. No cameras were allowed in the exhibit, of course, so this is the best I could do picture-wise. The first three pictures are of art installations outside the museum; The fourth is

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-67657927211905821462010-11-12T22:37:00.005-07:002010-11-12T23:05:02.165-07:00

The back of the semi carrying the tree (above) Part of the sign that ran down either side of the semi - displaying signatures and sponsors (below)The Capitol Christmas Tree rolled through our cold, windy little town today. I wasn't prepared for all of the US Forest Service manpower. Apparently, it's a big deal to move a huge Christmas tree across the country. The 83-year old tree from

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-63189614620213497622010-10-30T18:52:00.006-06:002010-10-30T19:02:28.397-06:00

I made a batch of these pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting for Keith to take to the haunted prison tonight. Apparently, last night's brownies were devoured and they needed more sugar to keep them going. Keith was impressed with the candy corn on top and called me his own personal Paula Deen. Well, actually he said, "It's just like living with that southern cook on TV that says y'all

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-36102714275187735152010-10-29T16:28:00.005-06:002010-10-29T16:51:05.063-06:00

Because I married a man who loves Halloween, I spent this afternoon carving pumpkins for him to take to the annual Haunted Prison festivities.I found carving patterns on the internet, printed them, taped them to the pumpkin and started with a rough carve, following the pattern with a sharp, small knife.If you look closely at the above picture, you can see the knife marks that I left in the

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-37174715020429861092010-10-25T20:21:00.003-06:002010-10-25T20:28:43.807-06:00

Blazer, the sleepy dog, guarding his new bone.Mark your calendars - first snowfall of the year on 10/25!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-30053709742088261462010-10-19T07:00:00.002-06:002010-10-19T07:00:09.093-06:00

These first three photos are scenes from our balcony. The top is a church that is across the street from the hotel. The middle picture is of the courtyard at the hotel, and the bottom is of downtown Salt Lake. Room service breakfast - we didn't know how many plates would be involved in what we ordered. They provide way too much food!Our bedroom, as seen from the balcony

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-17369773246770452612010-10-18T07:00:00.000-06:002010-10-18T07:00:08.244-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-20363814225900561022010-10-17T18:37:00.003-06:002010-10-17T18:49:18.305-06:00

From IKEA in SLC, I bought this yellow, blue, and tan stripe for my dining room. My vision - roman shades. We'll see how that works out.I also bought this piece of stripe-y material for recovering two pillows for the couch. This pretty floral on a blue background will be used to make some new kitchen curtains.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-17126765444013563412010-10-15T07:00:00.000-06:002010-10-15T07:00:13.352-06:00

The final stop on this installment of Random Wyoming is Pathfinder Reservoir (top picture). If you look closely at the bottom picture, you will see Keith and Blazer at the top of the red rock ridge.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-64392369949975261342010-10-14T07:00:00.001-06:002010-10-14T07:00:06.762-06:00

Alcova Dam is the third stop in our tour of Random Wyomingness. Alcova is a dam on the North Platte River that creates a reservoir, north of Pathfinder and Seminoe reservoirs. The area around Alcova boasts a town of 20, camp sites, and boat launches. It is a popular place for water fun in the sun!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-67601506285468468272010-10-13T07:00:00.000-06:002010-10-13T07:00:06.962-06:00

Stop number two on our Random Wyoming tour is the Devil's Gate historical marker between Independence Rock and Martin's Cove. The Sweetwater River carved Devil's Gate out of the rocks in the area. It was an important landmark for the pioneers on the Oregon and Mormon Trails.View of Devil's Gate - the Sweetwater River passes through a very narrow opening in the rock.View of Martin's Cove & the

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-56680463074858896592010-10-12T19:12:00.001-06:002010-10-12T19:13:34.394-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-25080011723967131462010-10-12T16:21:00.004-06:002010-10-12T18:16:26.868-06:00

Ames Monument is our first stop on the Random Wyoming tour. The Ames Monument is a large pyramid dedicated to brothers Oakes Ames and Oliver Ames, Jr., Union Pacific Railroad financiers (according to Wikipedia). Never seen it? Exit at Vedauvoo and follow that road about 2.5 miles. When it was built, it marked the highest point on the transcontinental railroad until UP relocated the rails to

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-61143278527106140362010-10-10T16:56:00.004-06:002010-10-10T17:14:16.026-06:00

Molly has been tagging along on our walks lately. She's still a puppy and doesn't get out much so we've been walking her with Blazer out in the sagebrush. When we let her off the leash the first time, she was like a devil dog - running every which way and barreling over Blazer even though he has a few inches and 60 pounds on her! These pictures are from the most recent walk; Keith had treats

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-86287472244632102412010-09-27T16:11:00.006-06:002010-10-10T17:14:33.229-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-30228980500229334382010-09-05T18:11:00.004-06:002010-09-05T18:16:11.085-06:00

Blazer met his Mini Me today - the little puppy that was visiting our neighbors across the street. He (or she) heard me say, "Ohh, he's so cute!" and came running across the street. Puppies start out so adorable and little, but of course, they don't stay that way. Puppy's owner asked how old Blazer was and Keith told him then said, "Yep, this is what you have to look forward to!"

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-74319407347421360742010-09-05T08:24:00.005-06:002010-09-05T08:53:45.017-06:00

My new mode of transportation - a 2010 CR-V!Leather seats - front & back...it also has seat warmers for those cold winter months.Digital information panel - In addition to the usual stuff, it also tells you average mpg, miles left before fill-up, oil life left, the outside temperature, and direction.More cool features - Dual climate control with digital readout and super cool satellite radio with

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-42044048543406197232010-08-19T20:59:00.002-06:002010-08-19T21:12:48.528-06:00

When I got home yesterday, a box awaited me on the porch. Could it be?YES! After months of wishing and begging, it's mine and it's fabulous! Here are my high points:Photos look awesome on the display.It plays my favorite songs just like my first Apple love, the iPod.I can surf, check email, update facebook, and generally waste time technologically.There is a notes app where I can record ideas,

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-8674016264769555312010-08-11T17:26:00.002-06:002010-08-11T17:30:27.080-06:00

I was approved for an educator's Animoto account, and, I have to say...it's pretty cool. I just uploaded some photos, picked the music, and BOOM I have a video. There are other things you can do like add text and different effects. This video of Yellowstone memories was my trial run to see how it works. Hmmm.. I'm already planning some first day of school pics to transform into video!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-61136673058041934252010-08-05T20:38:00.008-06:002010-08-11T18:41:29.112-06:00

Earlier tonight**, I was watching Project Runway and minding my own business when, all of a sudden, my TV screen goes blank except for the ominous "Searching for Satellite" message. I walked to the front door to see if it was storming (since I hadn't heard a thing!) and this is what I saw...**And by earlier tonight, I mean Thursday, August 5th. For some reason my Flip videos wouldn't upload

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-84541540376993632472010-08-04T17:39:00.007-06:002010-08-04T17:58:20.051-06:00

Free Video HostingSo funny, yet so true! This is why teachers go home exhausted at the end of the day. My goal for this school year: minimize my days that go like this!!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-78329467822341652462010-07-31T07:00:00.002-06:002010-07-31T07:00:03.440-06:00

The taco bus! Check-in Guy at the Weston Inn (not really his name) referred us to this eating establishment. He said, "I've sent 12 guests here and not one has come back to complain about the choice!" We found out why - no one ever came back to complain because they died of hunger waiting for their food to be prepared. Yikes! It took over an hour for us to get our food, BUT when we did, it

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-74110887080687174852010-07-30T13:54:00.002-06:002010-07-30T14:03:47.257-06:00

Just a hint....Masses of people waiting patientlyThe eruption begins!Whee!!! I'm always impressed by the noise that Old Faithful gives off during the eruption. It sounds like a huge tea kettle boiling!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-73016295210691893132010-07-30T13:40:00.002-06:002010-07-30T13:53:52.042-06:00

Our garden is growing despite the intense sun and the arid conditions. We're up to watering twice a day now. The early girl tomatoes are doing OK; there are several that are starting to turn red. We also have Roma tomatoes which are growing pretty well - nice and green with several flowers and ripening fruit. The cucumber plant has finally flowered but no signs of any vegetable yet. Our

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-50181549341578470192010-07-29T17:01:00.004-06:002010-07-29T17:11:38.949-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-18895264668775580612010-07-20T07:00:00.006-06:002010-07-21T06:49:56.122-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-44095580869320254512010-07-19T10:31:00.003-06:002010-07-19T10:45:02.060-06:00

What does Blazer want to do when he goes on vacation? Play in the water, of course!!Playing in Jackson Lake - We had to keep him on the leash because he kept straying over to another family. I'm sure they didn't appreciate him shaking off on them. Hannah, Christi, and Blazer playing in the waterMy favorite game is water fetch!!At Yellowstone Lake with David and ElijahPlaying keep-away with

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-55556330205256172772010-07-14T09:34:00.008-06:002010-07-14T10:07:30.134-06:00

While at the Thermopolis hot pools, my brother struck up a conversation that led us to Legend Rock, a site off the beaten path. Legend Rock has hundreds of petroglyphs (rock carvings) that were created over thousands of years.Legend RockCactus flowerPetroglyphs - These rock carvings were created by pecking or abrading the rock. People who study these can tell how old they are and who created

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-31965263037057243222010-07-13T17:06:00.005-06:002010-07-13T17:36:16.129-06:00

Split Rock was an important landmark for travelers on the Oregon Trail; it can be seen for one day as you are walking toward it and two days after you leave it headed west. Twelve miles after leaving Devil's Gate, emigrants passed through here on their way to South Pass. The meadows surrounding Split Rock were frequented by the Shoshone, Arapaho, Crow, and Sioux since the rocks provided shelter

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-1028104982171701342010-06-28T22:06:00.005-06:002010-06-28T22:33:41.978-06:00

The Snow King Resort - this is the main building. You can't see all of the condos that have been built behind and beside it. Our condo is to the right of this picture; we have a lovely view of the lifts and ski runs.Here's the view of the Tetons from the Ice Pavilion where many of our lectures are being held. Here's the Tetons from the parking lot of the National Park Information

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-22176401697791286762010-06-27T10:27:00.004-06:002010-06-27T10:58:32.810-06:00

This week, I am staying at the Snow King Resort in Jackson for the 2010 Teton Institute. My fellow teachers and I arrived last night after a refreshing six-hour drive and settled in. We ate dinner at the Bunnery in town, bought some breakfast/snack items, and explored a little. Our condoIs this a closet? NO....It's a Murphy bed, my sleeping location for this trip. It was actually quite

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-21961401983431764792010-06-25T11:11:00.002-06:002010-06-25T11:23:25.998-06:00

Baby bell pepper - there are two more smaller ones closer to the groundTomato! I don't really like fresh tomatoes, but I have a small sense of accomplishment for growing it. Sugar snap peas - they are thriving while my green beans are lagging.Carrot tops - these are actually starting to look like carrots!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-28002154900889587532010-06-17T07:00:00.001-06:002010-06-17T07:00:00.461-06:00

Happy Birthday and Father's Day!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-85161817532434844082010-06-16T12:58:00.003-06:002010-06-16T13:03:58.097-06:00

Along with the rhubarb, lilac seems to grow well in our backyard, despite our general neglect. Should I prune it back in the winter? We didn't have nearly as many blooms this year as last.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-50624703128527519622010-06-13T16:55:00.008-06:002010-06-13T17:26:41.463-06:00

I'm assuming the sign and fence used to be on dry land. The deceptively calm PlatteAbove and below are pictures of a picnic table near the boat ramp. The orange gate you see is beside the boat ramp, which is completely flooded. The previous two pictures show the sandbags around the golf course's main building which houses the pro shop, restaurant, and bathrooms. Flooded greens and

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-3427515719142763222010-06-12T13:09:00.003-06:002010-06-12T13:16:25.214-06:00

Our first tomatoThe first bell pepperThis week's pic of the garden. On the right, we've added a strawberry plant and our snap peas are starting to pop out of the ground.

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-61709924665780861412010-06-09T18:46:00.002-06:002010-06-09T18:47:50.350-06:00

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-21371481544590159622010-06-07T20:46:00.001-06:002010-06-07T20:48:42.190-06:00

We had thunderstorms today and yesterday. They don't happen very often here in Wyoming, but when they do, they are usually accompanied by hail. My poor, poor garden!

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-78831100260840546962010-06-07T20:26:00.009-06:002010-06-07T20:50:24.930-06:00

The North Platte River near Saratoga.All week, we've been getting flood warnings about the North Platte. Snow is melting quickly in Snowy Range and the Sierra Madre, so the rivers are filling up just as quickly. I-80 bridge today (above) and last summer (below)Two summers ago, Keith and I put in here to float the river. Last summer, we went farther upstream and floated to this point with

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559084889450736568.post-41100582951813290372010-06-05T13:59:00.005-06:002010-06-05T14:09:29.586-06:00

Garden - second attemptSpinachLettuceBlooming tree...Our first attempt at a garden did not work out well; all of our plants died within a day. So, while we were out of town, we bought some established tomato, bell pepper, cucumber, and strawberry plants. I replanted them this week, along with some snap pea and green bean seeds. Keith also planted some spinach, carrot, and lettuce seeds in the

Cindihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05458690323116354029noreply@blogger.com1